excitement from the sidelines and the field page 14
a breed of rich heritage and tradition page 3
locomotion and biomechanics page 11 recognizing normal gestation and parturition page 26
an oasis in the dessert page 28
In this issue
2 From the Editor Our first issue is behind us, and I am looking forward to a bright future for Gaited Canada. We have tested a few online digital hosts and will settle on the one that is the most popular and user friendly to ensure the highest traffic to the magazine and our advertisers. Please check both versions online and take the reader’s poll to cast your vote.
This month’s cover photo: Andrea Barber Photography
The printed version is available through MagCloud print on demand, the print quality is very good, delivery is timely. The only issue reported has been postage to Canada. We are currently seeking a print on demand option from a Canadian printer to reduce postage cost. Please feel free to contact me with suggestions and inquiries of any kind. Gaited Canada can only grow and succeed if it is what Canadian gaited horse owners, breeders and enthusiasts want in a magazine!
Issue #2 - May 2010 Gaited Canada Publisher: Trademark Design editor@gaited.ca www.gaited.ca 1-877-801-7276 Stefanie Schermerhorn Editor Jo Seggie-Flemming Proofing department 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.
Stefanie Print copy of magazine available, print on demand issue by issue. first prize stallion Kalman frã Lãkjamãti owned by Steven and Andrea Barber, Sand Meadow Farm
3. The Icelandic Horse
Digital ezine viewing www.gaited.ca 8. Smoke Signals
a breed of rich heritage and tradition
11. Equine Motion Detection locomotion and biomechanics
19. Advertising Rates
14. Mounted Games
excitement from the sidelines and the field
21. Stallion Directory
26. Foaling 101
22. Upcoming Events
28. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
23. Wild Pink Yonder
recognizing normal gestation and parturition an oasis in the dessert
25. Breeder Directory Associations & Clubs
The hooves of only one breed of horse strike the ground in Iceland. The climate is harsh and the land can be unforgiving albeit beautiful. To survive here, and to meet the demands of the Icelandic people the breed must be hardy and versatile. The Icelandic Horse meets these requirements and more in their homeland, and beyond it’s shores. In the late 800s to mid 900s, Iceland was settled by denizens of Norway, Ireland, the Western Isles of Scotland, as well as from the Isle of Man. Those that were able to bring their stock with them brought what was known and bred in their respective locals. Animals that met the demands of their times and regions. The original horses were likely descendants of the sturdy, loyal and courageous Mongolian horse, the now extinct Celtic pony and the gaited Spanish Jennet and Asturian, blended together for each region’s purpose and preference. In Iceland, this has resulted in a
hardy, athletic, spirited, adaptable, and sure-footed five gaited horse that has remained pure for over 800 years. A law passed In 1882 states that import was forbidden by law, this law is still in effect today (to control disease),ensuring that no horse that leaves Iceland can ever return. If a horse leaves Iceland for a competition, it may not return. The extreme climate, weather and terrain combined with the short growing season are all factors that have played a role in how the Icelandic horse has evolved over the centuries. Shorter legs and necks, longer winter coat, and a good digestive system are characteristics of the older style Icelandic Horse while modern breeding, feeding and management has resulted in a more refined, lighter type that has more height than the old style horse. In 1782 there were 32,200 horses in Iceland. Then the event of Móðuharðindi, a natural
catastrophe with a great volcanic eruption led to increased cold weather, poisonous volcanic ash and starvation, claiming nearly 70% of the Icelandic Horse population. Just over one year later the number of Icelandic Horses world wide was only 8,600. All modern Icelandic horses world wide (approximately 200.000) are descendants of those few survivors. The Icelandic horse is pure-bred with all ancestors traceable to Iceland. In May of 1969, a group of Icelandic Horse enthusiasts came together and formed FEIF (Föderation Europäischer Islandpferde Freunde). The name by definition is Friends of the Icelandic Horse. Those original founders were: Gunnar Bjarnason (IS), Gunnar Jonsson (DK), Max Indermaur (CH), Walter Feldmann senior DE and the first president, Ewald Isenbügel (CH).
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In 1994 a joint declaration on the breeding of Icelandic horses was signed by FEIF and the State of Iceland, recognizing Iceland as the country of origin of the Icelandic horse. This declaration ensures that the 18 FEIF member nation states outside Iceland will do their best to follow the lead of Iceland in all matters of breeding and the use of the horse. FEIF is the governing body for all nations that breed the Icelandic horse. National associations of each country fall under the umbrella of FEIF standards and rules. In Canada the national association is The Canadian Icelandic Horse Federation (CIHF). The CIHF was founded in 1979 in Calgary Alberta. Gunnar Bjarnasson represented his native Iceland at the foundation meeting. At that time he was 64 years old. Today there are about 2100 registered Icelandic horses in Canada. Only the purebred horse can be registered.
Breed Standards Size: The height of the Icelandic horse ranges from 125 to 145cm at the highest point of the withers (approx 12.3hh - 14.2). The average for mares is 136cm and for stallions 138cm. The grown Icelandic horse weighs around 300 to 400kg. Colours: Most known horse colours and markings can be seen. The most dominant colours are chestnut, black and bay but grey and tobiano are also quite common.
all the way back to the croup. Average length. Hindquarters: Long, adequately sloping croup, quarters equally muscled on each side and only slightly narrowing towards the tail. Long, well-muscled thighs. Photo: Andrea Barber Photography
Canadian Icelandic Horses are registered with World Fengur in Iceland where all known generation breedings are registered and with the CLRC here in Canada. The objective of the CIHF is the encouragement, development and regulation of the Icelandic Horse. To promote awareness and security of the integrity of the purebred Icelandic horse in Canada.
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photo Kordula Reinhartz - stallion Dagfar
Back and hindquarters: Back/Top line: Strong and supple, broad and well-muscled
Conformation: Conformation may vary considerably but a typical Icelandic horse is rectangular and compact in shape. Head: Well-defined, proud and alert Neck, Withers & Shoulders: Neck: Well-carried, high set, supple, flexible at the poll, long and fine, clearly separate from the main body. Withers: Prominent and long. Shoulders: Long and sloping.
Proportions The horse should be full of presence. Front, middle and hind sections are approximately equal. The legs are long and well spaced. The body is cylindrical in shape and should be higher at the withers than at the highest point of the croup. Legs (quality): Clean dry legs, strong tendons, and clear separation between tendon and bone, strong and flexible pasterns. Legs (joints) Viewed from in front of and behind the horse: legs are straight when moving. Hind legs may turn out slightly. There is adequate space
between the front legs, and between the hind legs. Hooves: Strong, thick and smooth horn. Concave, thick soles with large frog and strong heels. Mane and tail: Long and thick, kept natural.
Walk Even 4 beat with long, energetic strides. Pace Impressive 2 beat lateral gait with clear suspension, fast, confident - suitable for racing.
speed into the 4 beat gallop. Willingness The horse should be very willing, offering its best with very little encouragement. Temperament The horse tries to please the rider, is sensible, easy to ride and handle, and is happy,
Riding abilities Tölt Even 4 beat, supple, high action and long strides. The horse should be able to tölt at all speeds, from slow to very fast.
first prize mare Vordís frá Miðkoti in flying pace. Photo: Andrea Barber Photography
Canter & Gallop Canter: 3 beat with clear suspension, easily increasing
photo Kordula Reinhartz
cheerful, confident and brave. General impression The horse is very impressive. Movements are supple, high and ground covering. The horse has good head carriage, great presence and moves energetically in all gaits.
first prize stallion Hamur ridden in tolt. Photos: Andrea Barber Photography
Trot Confident 2 beat with high action, long strides and suspension. The horse should be able to trot up to a fast speed.
first prize stallion Veigar frá Lækjamóti in canter. Photo: Andrea Barber Photography
Performance The Icelandic horse is a riding horse. The horse is unique in its gaits and virtually all Icelandic horses have tölt in addition to walk, trot, and canter/gallop. An additional gait that offers the highest speed is the pace and can be performed by many horses. The strongest and best of the breed conform to an exacting breed evaluation for conformation 40% and ride ability 60%.
mare Freyja in gallop (above) first prize stallion Parker frá Sólheimum in trot.(left) Photo: Andrea Barber Photography
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The FEIF has established strict rules and standards that regulate breeding, conduct, training and performance of the Icelandic Horse and breeders. This in conjunction with the Icelandic government’s declarations pertaining to the Icelandic Horse ensure the breed is preserved in Iceland and
The first registrations were done by a volunteer and later by the pony registry. It was not until 1983 that CIHF joined forced with the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation to maintain the registrations. In Canada the Icelandic Horse can be seen in sport competitions, official breed evaluations, and
demonstrations, trail clubs and multi-breed shows. You can see the Icelandic Horse at various locations and events across Canada. A local show, and judge certificate renewal seminar will be held in Chilliwack, BC June 18th -20th put on by the BC Icelandic Horse Assoc. (www.icelandichorsesbc.com) A demo is planned for the Pakenham fair (Pakenham, Ontario) on August 14th, and the Ontario Icelandic Horse Association (www.oiha.ca) is planning a show near Ottawa in September. Better yet, contact a breeder near you to learn more about the incredible Icelandic Horse. The Canadian Icelandic Horse Federation can help you locate a breeder near you www.cihf.ca Phone (613) 832-0506
photos: Andrea Barber Photography
member nations. According to the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation (the official registry of the Canadian Icelandic Horse Federation) The first Icelandic mare to be registered in Canada was Purka Fra Lagafelli, an imported mare with registration #1. The first stallion, Faxi From Merkigili #42 also imported. The distinction of first Canadian born Icelandic Horse in the registry belongs to Blesi 2nd, a palomino colt born on May 1st 1960, his registration #74. The first horses would have come in the late 50's and the first foal born in Canada came here in utero.
Artworks Artworks Paso Finos
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An equine versatility event for seasoned trail and show horses that demonstrate their gait and versatility in dressage, a set stadium obstacle course and a 3 to 5 mile cross country course which demands stamina and willingness to meet field challenges for the beginner novice, novice and training level division riders.
www.threephaseevent.org
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8 Hey I’d like to invite you all to check out one of my favourite places to ride Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. This recreation area is only 40 minutes east of Edmonton Alberta by Elk Island National Park. It‘s horseback trails are one of Alberta's best kept secrets! A lot of people do not even know that the trails are there. Wow… what they are missing! There are more than 85 km of groomed equestrian trails and laneways in the Cooking Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. It is a wonderful place to spend time. I like to get out on the trails early and spend the whole day riding. The trail are always well looked after and the wild life viewing is amazing! Everyone I have taken with me has fallen in love with this place! The riding trails in Blackfoot take you through a very diverse landscape. You can travel over hill and dale, canter across pasture land, and cross multiple steams on sturdy wooden bridges. The trails meander around marshlands, past puddle
lakes, and through speckled wood lands. It is such a unique piece of wilderness, that it is hard to believe that it is only a few minutes from Alberta’s Capital city. Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails, and on most of the resource roads, as well as in designated pastures. (Signs at the pasture gates indicate which pastures are “open”or”closed” to riding). One of the wonderful things about this recreation area is horse shoes are not required! Most trails are mowed grass or dirt. There can be a bit of mud in wet seasons, but there is very little harsh footing and most of the gravel lanes have grass ditches, or can be avoided altogether. Shelters, privies and a few bus-stop style shelters are situated at strategic points along trails. In the center of the recreation area there is a beautiful picnic area with a wooden deck and benches that overlooks Swan Lake. It is called “Running Dog Shelter” and it is my favourite place to stop for lunch. There are good solid tie rails there so I don’t have to worry about my horses. During the summer months the park staff keeps a water tank topped up so, if you bring a collapsible bucket, you can give your horses a drink. In cooler weather you can take advantage of the shelter and warm up by the wood stove.
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to equestrians: Waskehegan, Central, and Blackfoot staging areas. Each of these areas is equipped with a loading ramp, at least one all-weather shelter, with a wood stove to warm up by, washrooms, fire pits, picnic facilities and a water supply. There is quite a bit of parking area for horse trailers so you usually have room to tie your horses to your trailer for tacking up. Central and Waskehegan staging areas are open to horses all year round, while the Blackfoot Staging area is closed to horses in the winter. The Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area is located directly south of, and adjacent to, the Elk Island National Park boundary. Primary access routes to Blackfoot are from the Trans Canada, Yellowhead Highway 16, from the north, or from Wye Road to the south. When you are heading east of Edmonton just follow the big blue signs to get to the staging areas. County roads connect the staging areas to the highways. I have personally ridden all of the trails in Blackfoot and I truly believe it is one of the best riding areas in Alberta!
a vast number of bird species including a nesting pair of Trumpeter Swans! While out riding I have seen everything from playful fox pups to huge bull moose, along the trails. Once we even came upon a herd of over 60 elk grazing in one of the pastures. Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area is the oldest Forest Reserve in Canada. It was originally established in 1899. Today this reserve contains 97 sq km of land. It is a true multiuse area with 170 kms of developed walking, hiking, mountain biking, equestrian, nordic skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding trails. No unauthorized vehicles are allowed on these trails, so the only vehicles you will ever see are those operated by the park staff! There are 3 staging areas in the Cooking Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area that are open Contributing writer: Rose Mary Axel
Check out Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area on line at http://www.dotheblackfoot.ca/ Be sure to click the summer trails and the winter trails links to get a brochure that tells you what trails are open to horses during different seasons. Pick up a trail map before you head out of the staging area. Paper trail maps are free and very well marked. Although there are posted markers and maps along the trails, I like having my own map in my saddle bags. Not only does this help me avoid getting lost, but it gives me the confidence to change my game plan at any point along the way! If you are going to be in the Edmonton area, be sure to spend a day or two checking out the Blackfoot, and, if you are looking for some one to ride with, drop me a line. Maybe I can find a way to join you! After all, I am always looking for an excuse to load up one of my horses and hit the trails. Email me at rose@smoothgait.com
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At Stud via AI Owner: Trademark Farms Canadian agent: Contemporary Equine contemporaryequine@gmail.com
11 When Dr. Hilary Clayton came to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine as one of its D.L.T. Smith visiting scientists in 2005, it was a homecoming of sorts for the internationally-known equine scientist. Clayton, who has held the McPhail Dressage Chair in Equine Sports Medicine at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine since 1997, was an anatomy professor at WCVM from 1982 until her chair appointment. It was during her 15-year stay in Saskatoon, Sask., that Clayton’s research interests in sport horse conditioning, equine locomotion and equine biomechanics gained real momentum. Those early research initiatives — some of which received financial support from the College’s Equine Health Research Fund — earned recognition from the international community of equine scientists as well as the sport horse world. Dr. Hilary Clayton and MSU Magic J perform a walk pirouette at a dressage competition in
with her WCVM colleague Dr. Peter Flood, and being part of the chief research group for dressage and show jumping at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. As well, Clayton was actively involved in EHRF — serving as editor of Horse Health Lines and as chair of the Fund’s management committee for a number of years. Today, Clayton is considered the world’s leading researcher in equine locomotion and biomechanics. Besides publishing a number of peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters and conference proceedings, Clayton has shared her research findings at international conferences, meetings and events for equine veterinarians, members of the sport horse community and horse enthusiasts. She is also the author of Conditioning Sport Horses, Equine Locomotion and The Dynamic Horse, and co-author of her latest book — Clinical Anatomy of the Horse. To learn more about Clayton’s work, visit the McPhail Equine Performance Center’s website. The following Q & A with Dr. Clayton was printed in the Summer 2006 issue of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s Horse Health Lines. Q. How do you choose your projects? When I went to Michigan State University, Mary Anne and Walter McPhail had no specific requirements for research — they simply gave the money with the idea of creating a research centre to study performance and lameness of sport horses. Mrs. McPhail has been a dressage enthusiast all of her life, so many of our projects are of great interest to her. Our current projects include cutting edge research that involves sophisticated equipment and custom software that we have developed for equine applications. In addition, we have projects that are of direct relevance to veterinarians and trainers. I spend a lot of time conveying the results to riders, trainers and judges because that was a big part of the McPhails’ vision. They wanted practical research that could produce tangible improvements in the equestrian sports.
Virginia. Photo: Dr. Hilary Clayton. During Clayton’s time at WCVM, some of her many achievements included writing a book on conditioning sport horses in 1991, co-authoring the Colour Atlas of Large Animal Applied Anatomy
Q. How has your dressage training influenced your research? Would you ask the same questions if you weren’t a serious rider? No, I don’t think I would be interested in the same types of questions if I didn’t ride. I like to study things that are important to riders and trainers. I started doing this type of research at WCVM and have continued it at Michigan State
12 University. Q. Can you tell us about your horses? Most of the horses I owned in the past were Thoroughbreds or Warmbloods, but now I own Arabians that were bred at MSU’s Horse Teaching and Research Farm. My first Arabian was MSU Magic J, named after Magic Johnson (an MSU graduate). I’ve taken him to the Arabian Nationals three times and we’ve come with a championship each time. I have another Arab that I bought at our university’s annual auction. We have a program where students “break” and train young horses, then sell them at auction to support the horse breeding program. The farm manager always keeps her eyes open for potential dressage horses, and she called me about this one. When I went to see him, he was so small — but he was a lovley mover with three really good gaits. At the sale, he was so scared when he came in the ring! I bid on him intending just to get the bidding started, but no one else placed a bid so I went home with another horse! MSU Fanfare has proved to be a great buy. In 2005, as a five-year-old, he won two dressage championships at the Arabian Sport Horse Nationals. Q. What hot topics in dressage are you investigating? One of the hot topics is the difference between “competitive” versus “classical” dressage. An example of how my research was involved in this debate was when I analysed the “piaffe” in videos from the Olympics. According to the dressage rules, piaffe was supposed to have a prolonged period of “suspension.” The biomechanical definition of suspension is a period when all four feet are off the ground. My research showed that there was no suspension in piaffe; when one pair of diagonal feet were on the ground, the other diagonal feet were held momentarily in an elevated or “suspended” position, but at no point were all four feet off the ground. The question then arose as to whether this was an aberration of competitive dressage and that if I looked at classically trained horses the results would be different. So I videotaped some of the classically trained Lippizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Austria, and found that they did not show suspension either.
Q. What interested you in questions involving bits and bitting, rein tension and rider motion? I’ve worked on these research projects mainly because I was just curious about some of those questions. For example, it has been suggested that horses are unable to swallow with a bit in their mouth, so I designed a study to measure frequency of swallowing during exercise while wearing different bits and bridles. For that study, we put an endoscope in the horses’ throats to record swallowing as they cantered on a treadmill. We tested a bitless bridle as well as different bits, and found minimal differences in swallowing frequency. However, we did find that swallowing frequency with different types of tack varied a great deal between horses, regardless of the bit and bridle used. Q. What’s a “gait fingerprint”? How will this technology help to develop this concept? A “gait fingerprint” is the idea of a horse having a characteristic gait profile that doesn’t change significantly with growth and aging. It’s based on work that was done by Dutch scientists who studied young foals over a period of two years. The group showed that the horses’ swing duration, their protraction-retraction angles and the joint angular events are consistent from the foal stage to adulthood. This allows the possibility of assessing the movement of a performance horse at a young age. Q. Will the day will come when lameness analysis technology replaces the traditional lameness exam? No, I think the lameness exam will always be a mainstay. Our goal in gait analysis is to determine what are the most useful features of gait for experienced veterinarians to focus on when they examine a horse for lameness. It’s a matter of taking all of the small nuances that they pick up and send to their “computer” brain, then trying to find a computerized representation that will sort out all of that information. Biomechanical analysis is very useful for increasing our understanding of how and why horses go lame and for monitoring progress over time. Q. Why is equine locomotion analysis still relatively new?
Reprinted with permission of Horse Health Lines, news publication for the Western College of Veterinary Medicine's Equine Health Research Fun
13 The limits of technology held us back in the 1990s, but there have been huge changes during the past 10 years. We can do so many things so much faster and more accurately now — and that’s why this is such an exciting area for research right now. Q. You work with the same type of virtual animation used in “Lord of the Rings” and “Polar Express.” How has this technology affected your work? It allows us to analyse the whole horse at once rather than only looking at one limb or one side of the horse’s body, and it provides results much more quickly than the older systems for gait analysis. We can slow down the motion to detect subtle changes that we wouldn’t be able to see in regular movement. We also use the data to calculate other biomechanical data that we can’t measure directly. We are applying this information to develop a computerized “lameness model” to teach undergraduate and graduate students about different types of lameness.
Classic beauty… Spanish influence… Unbelievable ride…
During a study of rider technique, Clayton and her research mount, Raison, wear markers (the glowing balls) that are detected by infrared cameras. Clayton is also wearing EMG (electromyographic) electrodes that detect activity in specific muscles. As well, rein sensors measure tension in the scientist's reins.
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Our horses are treasures on the trail! Lamont, AB 780-895-1019
Photo courtesy of Dr. Hilary Clayton.
nd. Sign up for the Horse Health Lines e-newsletter at www.ehrf.usask.ca.
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Contributing writer: Jo Seggie-Flemming
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HISTORY OF THE GAMES How many of you remember 'PPG's'?--Prince Philip Mounted Games. Do you remember them as something you did as a kid or that your kids do? You may be surprised to learn that mounted games are now a headier, more extreme, all ages sport played at international competitive levels in 20 countries. Mounted Games are the fastest growing equestrian sport! Of course many youth and now older folks still play PPG's at the local level. The local organizations are the feeder network to the regional, provincial, national and international competitive forum where skilled players can become globe trotters, not to mention ponies. Much like our national pass time hockey for anyone who can skate, anyone who can ride can play mounted games at some level. In fact, at the 2012 Summer Olympics in England mounted games will be a demonstration sport. This geographical location is fitting since historically it was His Royal Highness Prince Philip who devised a competition for children who could not afford an expensive pony for the likes of the Horse of the Year Show. The first Mounted Games Championship for the Prince Philip Cup occurred in 1957 and was an immediate success. in 1984 Norman Patrick, with the help of many bored parents sitting on the sidelines who wanted to play too, formed the Mounted Games Association of Great Britain which was copied in Canada and other countries. These groups extended participation in the games to all ages with the new divisions of 'Junior" for the younger set, "Open" for the very skilled of any age and "Foreveryoung or Fossils" (the name says it all) for those of 'older' age, including those in their 60's+ who wanted to participate in the games as riders rather than prop
crews and line judges. THE APPEAL Mounted games are like no other equestrian sport in that it combines the history of warfare and cavalry drills, the athleticism of the wild west and the thrill of a horse race. At the top level of competition human and equine athletes perform intricate skills at high speed and provide the spectator appeal of an extreme sport. Approximately twenty-five games are common from jousting at targets, popping balloons on the ground at full speed, dunking and retrieving balls, moving and placing flags and generally passing
the carton race
props between ponies and riders at breakneck speeds. Competition can be played in teams of five, pairs or individually. THE OBSERVER With the view of a docudrama reporter I took myself off to a regional competition in southern Ontario to see what the interest was about. The day meet was held at a club members farm on a flat grassy field that looked like first cut hay had been taken. An area of play similar to the diagram was marked off. The difference was that to-day there were only four parallel lanes, each 30 feet wide rather than the typical six lane field at higher competitive levels. Perimeter boundaries were marked by ropes strung on electric fence rods. The Start/Finish, Centre and Changeover lines were marked with white powder similar to that used on a
15 a baseball diamond. At the Start/Finish line there was a marshaling area where teams positioned themselves in line for their lane. After each game teams rotated lanes. Had this been a sanctioned point keeping match with six lanes there would have been 30 pony and rider competitors playing at speed, with lightning turns and direction changes inside an area 186 feet long and 225 feet wide, not counting the
marshaling area at each end and the 10 yard starting box. Such a crowded, fast moving competitive field boggles the imagination! To-day however it was a family meet and the games were being played in pairs--parent with kid, two sibs, friends, young and old adults including one team of two older ladies in their 60's called "Grey Power' on two grey ponies. Some of the international players for the Canadian team were also present, entered as the "Studs and Fillies" and out to have some fun. Mounts came in all sizes and colours and breeds. Little kids on 11H ponies teamed up with folks on 14-2H ponies, the largest mount allowed. The hot shot players favoured fast, well built animals that could go like stink and manoeuvre like mercury and had no problem balancing a rider who was vaulting off and on at a gallop.
Coffee and donuts were available during registration and constant teasing, camaraderie and good fellowship abounded. The event was under the authority of the Canadian Mounted Games Association whose volunteers provided administrative, nutritional, musical, and cheering support as well as the equipment for the games. A St. John's Ambulance and Paramedic team were hired to be on site for the day. Non riding volunteers also helped with equipment set up for each game, prop hand out and collection and also acted as line judges during play to make sure pony feet and props were in the right place at starts, changeovers and lane boundaries. At to-days event there were 15 pairs registered to play and four lanes were set up. There would be a morning qualifying heat and an afternoon final round. in the morning teams were randomly divided into three batches of four, four and three pairs to start. In the afternoon heat the batches would be determined by the first place teams playing together, then seconds and thirds, designated as A, B and C divisions for final ribbons. By 10am all was ready--ponies were tacked, outer field boundaries and internal lines were designated, the four playing lanes were marked by a row of five bending poles on 30 foot centres down the middle. players were hyped and ready to start. The first group of four pairs filed into the playing field and each selected a lane. It would take 45 to 60 minutes to play the first heat of 12 games. The identity and order of the 12 games had been previously posted so players could develop their strategy. It was the same set of 12 games for each of the three batches. In international competition where each team has five riders and ponies only four play each game so the strategies to use the right team member and their pony where their unique skills optimize the performance of the game become very important. Rider skills like vaulting, smooth prop hand offs, ability to lean over and play props off the ground or low down or stand in the stirrups to play high up matter a lot, as do pony skills such as ability to quickly change speeds, stop on a dime, reverse direction, stand, flying starts or return when called by their rider who finds themselves unexpectedly on the ground! THE PLAY The first game was Speed Weavers. First player stood in their lane behind the Start/Finish line. Last
16 player with a white head band on their helmet so the line judge could determine their ranking went down their lane and stood behind the changeover lane facing their partner. The object was to take a baton, weave the poles and pass it to your partner and wait behind the changeover line until they completed a similar run to the Finish line. The Ring Referee, with a flag in hand stood at the side on the centre line watching the players get into position. Ponies were bouncing in the start box, a 30 X 30 foot space at the end of each lane. Some reared, some stood quietly, some riders went to the back of the box so they could execute a flying start. The referee raised the flag and shouted "Under Starters Orders!" then quickly dropped the flag.... four ponies shot down the field weaving the poles! Observers on the sidelines shouted encouragement. First players presented the baton into a raised right hand of their partner for the pass off. All props are manipulated with the right hand. The fastest rider neglected to check his pony sufficiently or cushion the pass off with elbow action and smacked the baton into their partners hand whereupon it flew to the ground and necessitated a dismount to recover the baton, a remount and a second attempt to pass off before last rider headed back weaving the poles. One speedy team bolted back so fast they were unable to stop their pony in the finish box and the pony nimbly jumped the boundary rope resulting in team elimination for that game. The team that dropped the baton then got third place points for the Speed Weaver Game. First place went to a father son team, 'The Cowboys' with Dad on a large pony, son on a very small pony, each of whom smoothly weaved the poles and did the updown pass off with smiles. The next game was Mug Shuffle. There are four bending poles with a metal camping mug on pole 1
flag race N Smith on Lily, Photo MGAA
and 3. First rider rides up the lane and moves the mugs from pole 1 to 2 and pole 3 to 4 before crossing the changeover line. Last rider returns down the lane and moves the mugs back to their original position before crossing the finish line. The team with the speedy pony who earned the elimination decided to change riding positions and traded the white head band. The rider was able to control the errant pony going up the lane where they had not had such luck running home. Throughout the morning the qualifying round continued for the three groups with lots of hollering and many mistakes such as lane interference, jumping the start flag, line violations, dropped props, broken props and escaped ponies. In spite of everything there was lots of teasing banter among the riders and good sportsmanship. Everyone was trying to get in the "A" division for the afternoon final round. There was no call for the St John's paramedics to be involved. Tension in the air was mounting as pairs felt each other out and got a sense of how well they were playing that day as points slowly accumulated. In the blur of riders going up and down the lanes there was lots of looking over shoulders across the lanes as games progressed and individual riders checked if they were ahead or behind the other competitors in their group and adjusted their ride accordingly. The better riders galloped where possible and if a dismount was required to pick up a prop they jumped off and kept the pony moving around them ready to head back down the lane and vaulted back on without losing speed. It was
17 dynamic to watch the field of play. The coordination, agility and speed of these riders was impressive and exhilarating to watch. Lunch time arrived, ponies were untacked, watered and rested. Pizza was brought in for those who wanted it. Many had picnic lunches and some folks pooled their cooler contents and socialized. There was lots of reliving the highs and lows of the morning and serious discussions of strategy for the afternoon final round. A fine sense of community prevailed. The afternoon round began with division 'C' followed by 'B' as tension and excitement mounted for the final round of the 'A' division--the four pairs that earned the most points from the morning qualifying round. There were ten games in the afternoon, some repeats from the morning session. Noticeably absent was the Carton Race, played in the morning but conventionally reserved as a tie breaker race if needed. Expectations of the observers were high for this game because there were some very good players in the 'A' division. Speed Weavers was again the first race followed by a flag race. Next came Pony Pairs where first rider starts with a short length of rope, weaves the poles, takes one of two approaches to last rider at the changeover line, hands them one end of the rope and the pair, like a team of hitch horses, weaves the poles back across the finish line without dropping the rope. One team got on either side of a bending pole and had to regroup. The winning strategy was executed by the team where first rider wove the poles starting from the right rather than the left so at the changeover line he did a 180 degree turn and came along side last rider who was already in motion. They both grabbed the rope before crossing the changeover line and moving just inches apart like a shadow and silhouette the similar size ponies galloped full out, weaving the poles, just a blur back over the finish line whereupon they stopped in unison. The crowd gave up a mighty WHOOHOO!! At the end of the final round in 'A' division there was a tie between two of the four teams and the carton race was set up. Excitement was high and sweaty ponies were dancing. Riders were guzzling water and a break was called to allow ponies some water and a chance to catch their breath before the two teams returned for the tie breaker play. Carton race involves four poles, each with a round plastic carton, 3 X 8 inches, inverted over the top. There is a litter basket at the changeover line and the object is to run down the lane, pick up a carton
being careful not to drag the pole over as you pass. You then go around the litter basket and drop the carton into the basket being careful that it does not bounce out, run back to the finish line and allow the second rider to repeat the same task. Each rider does this two times--either two sequentially or one at a time alternating--a strategy choice. Based on the pony and rider skills at starting and stopping, staying close enough to the poles that the rider can reach the carton, not going between the poles, turning around the basket and being able to bend low enough on that speeding 180 that the carton does not bounce but stays in the basket a whole list of strategy choices are required. If any poles are knocked or dragged over as the carton is lifted, or the litter basket is upset and scattered, the rider must dismount and repair the damage. Carton Race being longer and very fast had the crowd in a frenzy! These were the top riders of the day and each pair had developed their own list of strategies. When the first white helmet band crossed the finish line it was on a team who had elected to take two runs together and divide the cartons into the first two and the last two because the second pony had rocket take off and the ability to slow and wheel at the basket making up a lot of time. It was a close and very noisy race but one team was a winner--the tie broken. When the dust had settled and ribbon presentation came, every person in each division received a fancy ribbon. First place teams got an additional prize. Division 'A' was won by Studs and Fillies, Grey Power took third in division 'B' and The Cowboys got first place in division 'C'. GAITED HORSES When considering the mounts required for Mounted games Gaited Horses are particularly useful because of their often smaller size, athleticism and agility. In June of 2007 MGAA (Mounted Games Across America) hosted a mounted games exhibition with 39 riders. The Monumental Mall Madness Games Expo had eight teams competing at once! Gaited horses were well represented by a team riding their Icelandics. The Champagne on Ice Icelandic Horse Team consisted of M Washburn riding Marvin, C Ward riding Biscotti, K Crowley riding Pumkin Pie, J Cornich riding Bailey and N Smith riding Lily.
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Champagne on Ice, Photo MGAA
White Ice riders V Brown and J McCready celebrate with a reserve champion victory gallop. 2004 & 2007 results and photos MGAA http://www.mountedgames.org/
adjustments. This is a great advantage in games like jousting where you are trying to strike a 4 inch target with a five foot lance at speed. Specific details and descriptions about all the mounted games can be found on the international web site www.mounted-games.org. Jim Dunn is the Canadian contact for those interested in trying out for international play and the opportunity to travel to competition and clinics. The Canadian web site is www.canadamga.com. Regional and more grass roots and family play is organized by Mounted Games Across Canada www.mountedgames.ca . If you would like a personal pep talk, Maureen Lalonde maureenlalonde@yahoo.ca will be happy to share her passion for the games and give you some pointers. THE CANADIAN GAME So if you find the opportunity to experience or play mounted games with your gaited horse, give it a try. It is a fun activity played by a nice group of people who welcome new players with open arms regardless of age. There is one game you may see that is played only in Canada--the Canadian game. First rider starts with a hockey stick. Rider two is at the changeover line with a rubber ball--preferably red. Rider one runs down the lane and passes the hockey stick to rider two who must use the stick to work the ball down the lane and across the finish line. It's not a very fast game but imagine the strategy! No help from pony feet allowed.
In 2004 Mid Atlantic Game series #2 White Ice came up with six first place finishes to Fast N Furious' five and finished second. In an MGAC (Mounted Games Across Canada) meet in 2009 J Seggie-Flemming with her Paso Fino Fiesta, on the Mojo team with Maureen Lalonde, got fourth place in her team division--the Fossils. On a bouncy pony it is necessary to use a forward seat in order to let your legs act as shock absorbers so your head, eyes and hands can stay level and work together on the props. On a gaited horse there is no such problem because there is no bounce. If you happen to wear bifocal glasses there is no change in focus as you approach a target because the gaited horse glides along requiring no postural
Jo Seggie-Flemming on Paso Fino mare Fiesta
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The Sask Peruvian Horse Club has partnered with the Alberta PERRU Club to put on this double point show, sanctioned by the Peruvian Horse Association of Canada, the Alberta Walking Horse Association and Friends Of the Sound Horse, an all breed gaited horse association. Our judges are both very familiar with gaited horses and are FOSH guest carded. We are going to have: Full Peruvian Championship Classes Tennessee Walker Western, English, 2gait, 3gait classes and Championships Icelandic horse Classes and Championship Plus Several Open Gaited Breed Classes for any naturally gaited horse, Including a 50/50 stakes class, high point versatility award and some cash prizes!
Gaited Horse Clinic We are also having a gaited horse clinic West of Saskatoon, at Avondale farms on June 12 2010. Our clinician will be Daryl Olson, a peruvian horse breeder, trainer and gaited horse judge. It's a chance to learn to ride your horse to it's full potential an introduction to showing gaited horses and more. Participants $75 Auditors $15 Discounts available to SPHC members Contact any of the following people for more information on either event: PJ Soles at 306 929 2350 or foxcreek@inet2000.com Marion Bear at 306 763 9586 or marionbear@gmail.com Sylvian Baynton at 306 668 6801 Or you can check out our website for links to our sanctioning associations, entry forms, class lists and more at www.saskperuvians.net
Stallion Directory Nevado X Springtime Princesa
Springtime Radiante is a stallion with great temperament and winning gait. He attained the Top 10 Sires list in 2001 & 2009, his offspring have accumulated numerous regional and national championships in all divisions of gait
Contact Jo Seggie-Flemming 157 Rox Siding Rd Cobden Ontario, K0J 1K0 Phone# 613-646-2890 info@artworkspasofinos.com www.artworkspasofinos.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------General Guidelines: Gaited Canada welcomes your story and photography submissions. We especially look for well-written breed versatility stories, trail, open contest, and group activity photography, information that will help your fellow riders,short tips, news items, and new products. Article suggestions are also welcome. We reserve the right to edit for length, style, clarity, and accuracy. Submit timely material at least four months prior to issue date. I grant Gaited Canada permission to print my text/photos free of charge. Title/Destination:___________________________________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________________________________________ Street Address:___________________________________________________________________ City/State:_______________________________________________________________________ Phone:___________________________________________________________________________ e-mail:_________________________________________________________________________ Signature:______________________________________________ Date:________________________
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22 June 4, 5, 6 2010 PHCBC Clinic (Peruvian Horse Club of BC) Clinicians: Pedro Cantaro & Gil Loyd, Mount Vernon WA Armstrong Agriplex, Armstrong BC Contacts: Rob & Jan Sjodin (250) 832-1188 4beat@telus.net Cathie Taggart (250) 546-3704 ctaggart@telus.net June 5-6, 2010 Junior Clinic (Peruvian Horse Club of BC) Vernon, BC Judge: Kim Montee Contact Cindy Zatsoff (250) 558- 4743 info@paradisehorses.com June 5-6, 2010 All breed gaited horse demonstrations Lindsay, ON Lindsay Fairgrounds Contact Gloria Humeniuk gloriag.humeniuk@xplorenet.com
July 2, 3, 4, 2010 Wild West Classic (Peruvian Horse Club of BC) Olds, AB Judge: Nicholas Breaux Alberta & Juan Sandigo BC Contact Sherri Rosia (403)932-7032 SRosia.nhp@gmail.com Wild Pink Yonder (charity ride - Breast Cancer) Waterton Lakes National Park Date: August 14, 2010 End: Sherwood Park Date: September 4, 2010 Distance: approximately 325 riding miles Timing: 22 days Phone: (780) 363-0003 Fax: (780) 363-0004 E-mail: info@wildpinkyonder.com Canadian National Peruvian Horse Show August 20 - 22, 2010 Cloverdale, BC Judge: Pepe Risso Jr Contact Rob Sjodin (250) 832-1188 4beat@telus.net
Hoof Prints of Hope (charity ride - Alzheimer) P.O. Box 178 Lamont AB T0B 2R0 Rose Mary Axell Phone: (780) 895-1019 E-mail: rose@smoothgait.com Peter Thibodeau Pager (780) 491-2560 September 3 - 5, 2010 Diamond Classic Double Show Saskatoon, SK Saskatchewan Judge: Mrs Cricket Donoho Perru Judge: Mr Andres Salinas Contact: Phoebe Soles (306) 929-2350 or foxcreek@inet2000.com
BlueMAX kennel Our Australian Cattle Dogs..... fit your lifestyle Pefferlaw Ontario 416-623-5280 ij_claypool@rogers.com 2 Puppies available CKC Registered
We are Wild Pink Yonder, a charitable society on the trail to a cure for breast cancer. As mentioned in our last column, this year’s trail starts August 14th in beautiful Waterton Lakes National Park in the extreme southwest corner of Alberta. 325 horse miles later, we wrap up in the town of Sherwood Park, just east of Edmonton, Alberta, on September 4th. While we’re on the trail, we spend the night in small towns. We’ve thrown down the gauntlet, challenging these towns to see if they can be the Pinkest Little Town in the West 2010. That means they need to raise the most money (per capita) for our cause as well as “out pinkify” the other towns on our itinerary. Last year was a hoot. We saw some crazy pinkness (like an entire building painted multi shades of pink) and were served some wild pink things (like pink pancakes ad pink desserts)! These photos are from Pinkest Little Town in the West 2009.
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and scheming, but I can guarantee that our experiences will be terrific. Mountain View will likely serve dinner under a huge peaked tent at a lake in the mountains. Cardston may send a contingent of original, historical wagons and buggies to meet us and escort us into the Remington Carriage Museum where we will spend the night. Fort Macleod is threatening to send a contingent of NWMP to bring us in to their fort museum. (I’m hoping they’ll send their mayor out to ride in my wagon on the way in and then have the NWMP arrest him. Wouldn’t it be fun to have him in the stockade at the fort museum, waiting for his town folk to bail him out?) What an adventure! What a great bunch of people! And it occurs to me that this is not going to be hard work. It’s going to be one big party that starts in Waterton Lakes and doesn’t quit ‘til we wind ‘er up 22 days later in Sherwood Park! To join us visit www.WildPinkYonder.com It’s going to be legendary ... again.
If you can’t join us, but would like to help our cause, please drop by www.WildPinkYonder.com and make a pledge to one of our participants preferably me! *grin* The money will be used for breast cancer research.
It isn’t just “us” on the trail. It is anyone who wants to join us. You can ride your horse with us. Drive your team with us. Drive your single horse and cart. And new this year, if you don’t have a horse but want to be part of the fun anyway, you can ride in one of the wagons. All we ask is that you bring a minimum of $200/day in donations (pledges or personal cheque) to cover costs and provide a healthy donation to breast cancer research. (It’s cheap when compared with “The Weekend to End Women’s Cancers”. There you pay a minimum of $2,000 for two days ... and your horse is Shank’s Mare! *grin*) I can’t confirm events yet. Towns are still plotting Contributing writer: Jane Hurl, Wild Pink Yonder
24 Perlino stallion at stud Bay tobiano stallion at stud Foundation bloodlines Top 10 sire breeding
used Paso Fino tereque (training saddle) approximately 15� inch seat. Designed for Casa Dosa tack fits traditional build Paso Fino, encourages correct seat. Solid saddle, well cared for. email sschermerhorn@tds.net sschemerhorn@tds.net 1-877-801-7276
Paso Finos Westlock, Alberta 780-349-8558 creevally@hotmail.com www.creevalleypasofinos.com
25 Icelandic Horse Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse Kentucky Natural Gaited Horses Contemporary Equine Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Cree Valley Paso Finos Westlock, Alberta 780-349-8558 creevalley@hotmail.com
Peruvian Paso Foxcreek Homestead Meath Park, SK 306 929 2350 foxcreek@inet2000.com
Rocky Mountain Horse Mangalarga Marchador Missouri Foxtrotter Paso Fino Artworks Paso Finos Ottawa, Ontario (613) 646-2890 info@artworkspasofinos.com
Gaited Meadows British Columbia (250) 679-3881 info@gaitedmeadows.com
Spotted Mountain Horse Tennessee Walking Horse Laurindale Stables Drayton Valley, Alberta 780-515-0216
Contemporary Equine Saskatoon, Saskatchewan contemporaryequine@gmail.com
All Gaited Breed clubs
Paso Fino
Gaited Horse Group of Ontario info1@gaitedhorsegroup.com
Central Canadian Paso Fino Horse association Ontario(region of American association) finavistafarm@hotmail.com
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
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
Kentucky Natural Gaited Horses Registration inspection Saskatchewan contemporaryequine@gmail.com
Missouri Foxtrotter Missouri Fox Trotter Club of Canada westwinds@sasktel.net
Tennessee Walking Horse Canadian Registry of Tennessee Walking Horse Alberta secretary@crtwh.ca
Regardless of your endless planning, all of the detailed literature and the most modern tests, gadgets and aids… mares and foals will work hand in hand with mother nature to rob you of your sleep and sanity as the birth of your much anticipated foal grows near. Familiarizing yourself with the normal gestation and parturition (delivery) and knowing what to expect will help you recognize abnormal events should they occur. Gestation on average ranges from 320 to 360 days, and often, mares carry for nearly the same number of days each pregnancy. Noting breeding dates and length of gestation along with the sex of foal (some mares carry colts and fillies different lengths of time) each year can serve as a guideline in future foalings.
sticky consistency it may form a yellowish, waxlike bead at the end of the teat, often referred to as waxing. Nearly 95% of mares wax up within the 648 hours period. Foal predicting milk strips (pool water quality test strips are a cheap substitute)for testing the calcium level - a good prediction of when the mare is going to foal as a rise in calcium indicates a readiness for birth. Cessation of continuous dripping of colostrum for more than 4 hours without signs of labor may indicate a problem, having your vet out at this stage will ensure that everything is progressing at a normal rate. Colostrum is essential to a newborn foal’s health, if the parturition is deemed normal by the vet but colostrum is still dripping, collecting and freezing the dripping colostrum may The mammary gland will show noticeable be advise (thaw and give to new foal in between development in most mares 3 to 6 weeks prior to nursing from the mare). foaling. Mares that have foaled previously are more Changes in eating routine and comfort levels may likely to develop larger udders and larger, earlier be noticed in the final few hours prior to foaling. distended teats than maiden mares. Labor is divided into 3 stages for a mare. Relaxation of the sacrosciatic ligaments and The first stage signs of labor may be obvious or so softening of the tail head approximately 1 week subtle they can go undetected by even experienced prior to foaling. owners. Your mare may display some, all or none of these signs. General, discomfort, pacing, sweating in the flanks or girth area, kicking at the abdomen, looking at the flanks, urinating small amounts frequently, laying down and getting up and pawing to prepare a foaling area. Meanwhile inside the uterus stage 1 changes include the foal moving into position, this means that the head and forelimbs extend, and the foal rotates its front half so that it’s topline is against the mare’s pelvis. As the cervix dilates and relaxes, and the uterus contracts, the level of discomfort for the mare increases, lasting from 15-90 minutes. Stage 2 of labor begins with the water breaking, (rupture of the placental membranes), and is completed when the foal has been delivered.. With the rupture of the membranes, allantoic fluids are released and lubricate the birth canal. The mare begins to forcibly push, and photo: Jerry Smith should results in the appearance of one or Softening and lengthening of the vulva may occur two front feet at the vulva within 5 minutes. It is 24-72 hours prior to foaling. normal for one leg to be slightly ahead of the other Formation of colostrum will change the color and to prevent shoulder lock, allowing the shoulders to consistency of milk approximately 2-3 days prior to pass through the pelvic canal. Both front hooves and foaling. In the last 48 hours or less (as close as 6 the foals nose should be present at the vulva within hours prior to foaling), mares may excrete small 5 minutes of the water breaking. amounts of colostrum from the teat. With the thick At this stage of labor, most mares will lie flat on
27 their sides with all four limbs extended. Each abdominal contraction should advance the foal
further through the vulva. Rarely though, will a mare stand throughout stage 2, deep bedding, a good grip and strong arms are all helpful in getting the foal to the ground safely. Straining should lessen after the emergence of the head and shoulders as the chest and hips are much easier to deliver. The entire process after the allantoic fluids are released should not take longer than 40 minutes or so. If the front feet are present for more then 10 minutes of straining with no advancement of head and shoulders you need to call your veterinarian immediately, as your mare is likely to need assistance at this time. The foal is delivered in the amnion, (thinner, whitish, part of placenta) which you may have to tear open to allow the foal to breath if it did not tear during delivery, with the umbilical cord intact. The cord will rupture when either the mare or foal stands. Stage 3 of labor is when the mare expels the placenta, and should occur within 3 hours of foaling. Uterine contractions after delivery cause expulsion of the placenta from the uterus, nursing by the foal will often aid in the mare expelling the placenta. Retention of all or part of the placenta for longer than 3 hours requires veterinary attention, as this can lead to metritis (infection in uterus) and
laminitis. Inspecting the placenta or collecting the placenta for your veterinarian to inspect will ensure proper delivery of the placenta has occurred (store in a sealed container to retain moisture). After the Delivery The foal should sit in the sternal position within a few minutes of delivery and yield a suckle response within 20 minutes. The foal should be able to stand within one hour, with frequent attempts made throughout that hour, often within minutes of delivery. Nursing should occur within the first 2 hours of life, watch closely to be sure that the foal is latching onto the teat and swallowing. Mares do not always get up and immediately inspect the foal, they will often rest in the recumbent position near the foal so that they can nudge and nicker to the foal. Maiden mares may take additional time to develop appropriate maternal behavior, holding the mare to allow close proximity to the foal often helps the maiden mare with the initial bonding. Limiting or restricting the foal’s movement should be avoided early on but guiding and assisting the foal to first nursing is encouraged. The foal’s umbilicus should be dipped in a solution of 1:4 Nolvasan to water solution or an iodine solution within the first half hour after delivery, then a number of times per day for the following three days. If the delivery seems typical and no problems are noted, your veterinarian can examine the mare and foal the next day. During this initial examination the foal’s blood can be tested for adequate absorption of antibodies. Your veterinarian can examine the stored placenta at this time. The sleepless nights, stress and anxiety are now behind you and the joy of your new healthy foal will give you endless enjoyment.
When you think of the Canadian prairies, it is safe to say that forests of lodgepole pine, towering ridges and rugged terrain would not be the first images that come to mind. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park may very well change that. Elevated above the expanse of the Great Plains between Alberta and Saskatchewan, At a height of 1.970 feet, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park is the highest point east of the Rockies and west of Labrador. Camping is available through self-registration in the designated equestrian campsite, but as you can imagine it is a very popular and is often full so call ahead to check available access. Camping is available at the designated campground. Picnic tables, barbecues, garbage cans and outhouses are provided. There are 12 permanent campsites, and three new tent sites have been added to meet the high demand. There is a large fire ring for group gatherings. Drinking water is available on site. The equestrian site provides 32 tie stalls, 5 turnout pens, and a large pasture. Tying or hobbling of horses is prohibited in the campground, however, portable panels, electric fences, etc., may be erected within the larger pasture area. All unloading must be done in the designated area, located on the north side of the campground. This area also serves as the parking area for stock trailers (allowing more room in the camping area) and helps to eliminate the mess associated with unloading trailers. Trailers with living quarters are allowed in the camping area (unloading must be done in the designated area) however, trailers without living quarters will be prohibited from the camping area. For more information contact the West Block Ranger Station at (306) 662-5489. For the trail riding enthusiasts, the West Block (Saskatchewan side) contains all of the equestrian trails, consisting of over fifty square miles of wilderness riding as well as camping for visitors who wish to travel with their horses. Riders will encounter wildlife, challenging terrain, water obstacles and primitive trails. High Vista trail and the Benson creek area will bring the additional challenge of steep slopes to navigate. All of this, while you travel through valleys, open ranges and the magnificent pines that make up Cypress Hills
Interprovincial Park. High Vista Trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail, expect some climbing over the trail. The trail forms a loop off of Battle Creek Road, there are two lookouts of special interest and the hidden conglomerates. Access to the trail is west of Benson Creek at the Old Homestead. The trail connects to the 2 Tower Trail. Using the road to close the loop will add to the riding distance and time out on the trail. Expect some climbing on Tower trail, stop and enjoy the view from the lookout that is located about half way along Tower trail. Tower trail connects to North Benson trail and the middle of High Vista trail, which can be taken to Battle Creek road and followed to the ranger station. Remember that you will be sharing these trails with hikers and mountain bikers in many areas. A day ride to the historic Fort Walsh is an experience that you wont want to miss. All riders must report to the
29 you can plan for morning, afternoon or day rides that will cover from 5km to 30km depending on your desired saddle time. Not all short trails will be quick rides, depending on the terrain, footing and sights you encounter. A camera and binoculars are almost mandatory in Cypress Hills!! You will want to capture every part of your ride. The scenery, the wildlife and the great times with friends, old and new alike. The park will amaze you with eighteen species of orchids (among more than 700 species of plants in
Visitor Reception Centre upon entering Fort Walsh property. Hitching rails are on site, make sure you bring some cash for lunch and park entry fees (fees apply to all visitors, even those riding in). Take in one of the walking tours or go on the bus tour to the Cypress Hills Massacre site, led by knowledgeable staff and historians. Regardless of the direction you head from camp,
the park), the wildlife photo opportunities may include Moose, elk, Nuttall’s cottontail, white-tailed deer, bobcat, red squirrel and mule deer or a rare cougar
sighting! If bird watching is of intrigue to you, look for the yellow-bellied sapsucker, Oregon junco or ruby-crowned kinglet or any one of the more than 220 species of birds that call the park home. Trails can be demanding as they climb
approximately 300 metres from the bottom of Battle Creek Valley to the top of the Cypress Hills Plateau, winding and wandering through the forests to reach the top. The plateau provides many opportunities to look out over the Battle Creek Valley below or out across the rolling prairies north to Maple Creek or south looking into Montana. The Conglomerate Cliffs and Hidden Conglomerate Cliffs (photo left) are exposed outcroppings of conglomerate rock and cobble which is cemented together with a calcium carbonate substrate that seeps out between the rocks to form a solid conglomerate. The exposed outcroppings form cliffs which are very dramatic to see. Mystery Rocks (photo right) is located on private land, approximately 2 km from the Trading Post at Fort Walsh National Historic Site. The Mystery Rocks is a massive rock formation which looks like someone has strategically cut into nice square blocks. Local folklore says these
rocks were placed here by terrestrial beings or that they hold sacred significance. It is in fact a sandstone block that has succumbed to erosion.
cobblestone, varied terrain and footing. You may prefer to have your horse shod before riding here. Carrying spare shoes or boots for your horse is always a good idea in case a shoe is thrown.
What you will need to bring and prepare for: Regardless of the season you’ll want to be prepared for cool nights and a chance of rain or snow, plan for these conditions along with your normal riding and camping gear. Only commercial processed feed is allowed into the park (ensures undesirable plant species and noxious weeds from becoming established along the roadsides or in the campground) to prevent further introduction of these only bagged cubes or pellets and rolled oats will be permitted into the park. Your own feed pans, water pails, stall fork and rake - You are expected to clean up any pens you use, a manure trailer is provided on site, however cleaning stock trailers within the park is prohibited. You may bring your own corral panels if desired, they must be erected within the large pasture. A large portion of your riding may be done on
Consider vaccinations for sleeping sickness and flu as your horse will have contact with other horses. Speak with your veterinarian for advice on protecting your horse. A basic equine and human first aid kit is always a good plan to carry along on any extended ride. A light, waterproof kit separate from the one you have in your trailer or camper. Take along sun screen and bug repellent for you and your equine friend. A snack and drinks for riders is highly recommended, you never know when you might stay out longer than anticipated. The areas history, is well documented and preserved by Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (Canada’s first Interprovincial Park).
32 From 1859 when John Palliser led an expedition from Fort Edmonton across the plains to Cypress Hills, describing the hills as “a perfect oasis in the desert�, to the 1873 Cypress Hills Massacre, (A bloody battle that led the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) out West). And the establishment of the town of Maple Creek (1883) followed by the influx of farmers, business owners and homesteaders that would settle the territory and provide us with what would become a true Canadian splendor.
To find out all that Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park has to offer visit the websites, write or call the offices and take advantage of the trip planner that is full of suggestions and resources to make your stay thrilling.
As you ride the trails and range, and explore the historical sites within the park one can not help marvel at the scenery, and if you know the history, the legacy left to us.
Fort Walsh National Historic Site Box 278, Maple Creek, SK, S0N 1N0 Email us at fort.walsh@pc.gc.ca or visit the Fort Walsh official site. Administration Office: (306) 662-2645; fax: (306) 662-2711 Historic Site: (306) 662-3590
To find out all that Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park has to offer visit the websites, write or call the offices and take advantage of the trip planner that is full of suggestions and resources to make your stay thrilling.
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park - Saskatchewan Box 850, Maple Creek, SK, CANADA S0N 1N0 Email us at cypresshills@gov.tpcs.sk.ca or visit http://www.cypresshills.com Park Office (year round) (306) 662-5411; fax (306) 662-5482
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park - Alberta Box 12, Elkwater, AB, CANADA T0J 1C0 or visit http://www.cypresshills.com Park office (year round):(403) 893-3777; fax: (403) 893-3987 Visitor Centre (year round): (403) 893-3833; fax: (403) 893-8900
Rely on our experience and dedication to the breed to help you realize your Paso Fino dream.
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Clinic 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
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