Gaitpost Magazine - February 2017

FEBRUARY 2017 ZEIDLER FARM • EMBRYO TRANSFER • INTEGRATED EQUINE THERAPY

Mongolian LOVE,

DEBRA GARSIDE

STYLE! SEE PAGE 28

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contents DEPARTMENTS 7 TidBits Heart Bits 13 Behind Barn Doors Growing

Together: Julia Tops and the Zeidler Farm Breeding Program By Emily Riden

FEATURES 9 Sense of Touch By Jochen Schleese 12 Gaitpost’s Breeding Feature 16 Equine Embryo Transfer

By Tracy A. Plough, DVM, Dip ACT

20 Industry News Hollow Creek Farm Presents Under 25 Grand Prix Series

26 Integrated Equine Therapies

By Tom Mayes

24 FEI News Germany’s Daniel Deusser New World Number One In Longines Rankings

28 Riding With The Eagles

By Debra Garside

35 Discipline Reports Canada’s Eric Lamaze Wins Rolex Top Ten Final in Geneva

12 IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE COVER: Courtship in Mongolia involves chasing down your intended on horseback. Debra Garside story is on page 28.

10 38 39 41 44 44 45 46 46 47

Headline News Barn & Coaching Classifieds Equestrian Properties Sales Catalogue BCHJA News Competition Calendar Noticeboard Advertisers’ Index Jump Alberta News BCLM Pony Club News

“I know everyone wanted it to be sad but how could anyone be sad to see Valegro go out so fit and well and happy — it’s been a happy sad day!”

— Carl Hester, on Valegro’s retirement.[See page 25]

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Heads Up!

Volume 17 Issue 2

CANADA’S GREATEST LITTLE HORSE MAG

Publisher Gaitpost Publications Inc. 258 – 224th Street, Langley, BC V2Z 2V6 Editor Eleanor Klawer · eleanor@gaitpost.com Sales Andrea Beaulieu · andrea@gaitpost.com Sue Ferguson · editorial@gaitpost.com Jill Sabo · jill@gaitpost.com Photo Ad Sales PhotoAds@gaitpost.com

Coming soon in future editions of Canada’s Greatest Little Horse Mag

Design & Production Post Publishers Ltd. · production@gaitpost.com Circulation Liam Klawer · circulation@gaitpost.com

MARCH & APRIL 2017 •

More articles on breeding & foaling

•

Special Advertising offers for Stallion Owners and Breeders

•

Real Estate Feature: Tips from the experts regarding purchasing your dream property

•

Deadline: February 3, 2017 for the March 2017 issue

Accounting Eleanor Klawer · eleanor@gaitpost.com Lori Boughton Contributing Writers Eleanor Klawer · editorial@gaitpost.com Jochen Schleese · Emily Riden · Tracy A. Plough, DVM, Dip ACT Tom Mayes · Debra Garside Editorial Submissions editorial@gaitpost.com Phone: 604-534-9665 Toll-Free: 1-855-534-9665 www.gaitpost.com

CANADA’S GREATEST LITTLE HORSE MAG

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Disclaimer: Reproduction, printed or electronic, in whole or part of any material contained in this publication, without prior written permission of The Publisher is strictly prohibited. The information and services listed are intended to facilitate accessibility to the professionals, products and services of the horse industry. The GaitPost has been compiled with the greatest of care, however, the Publisher does not assume responsibility for errors, omissions or subsequent changes. Further, the Publisher does not imply endorsement of opinions, images or services, whether solicited or unsolicited. No responsibility for loss occasioned to any person as a result of any material in this publication can be accepted by the Publisher, editor or contributors. Submissions: All photographs and submissions will be handled carefully. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. We reserve the right to edit or refuse any material not deemed appropriate. Submission does not guarantee publication.

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by Eleanor Klawer

Cezanne, by Sezuan, bred by Foxcroft Farm.

FOXCROFT FARM

TIDBITS

♥

♥

Heart Bits LOVE IS IN THE AIR British Columbia is still locked in the deep freeze (for us!) at press time, but working on the February issue has given us hope that spring is that much closer. It is time to think about breeding that mare, selecting that stallion, and taking that gamble in horse futures. Breeding season is a time of dreams, hopes, and plans – lots of plans! Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best way to go about breeding your mare. A little forethought can get that foal on the ground sooner and less expensively than dealing with breeding and fertility issues after the fact.

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21ST CENTURY LOVE This month, Dr. Tracy Plough gives us a good read on Equine Embryo Transfer (see page 16) and what is involved in breeding your mare while keeping her active in sport. As mares succeed more and more at the international level in all disciplines, the need to keep them performing and yet still take advantage of their genes becomes increasingly important. In the past, mares at the top were past their prime age of fertility by the time they were retired for breeding. All breeders understand that the mare is at least equally

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important to the quality of the foal produced, but the onus of genetics was placed more on the stallion’s genes, as it was easier to predict his ‘stamp’ on his foals by virtue of being able to have so many foals in a year.

Now talented mares will be able to reproduce earlier, and potentially multiple times in one year, and even better, the sound mares with the long career will be able to pass on that strength more often. It doesn’t rest all on the stallion’s shoulders anymore.

LOVE, MONGOLIAN STYLE This issue is exciting for us, and not just for the reminder of warmer weather soon to come.

Debra Garside has given us a fabulous insight into the Mongolian horse culture, and our cover

photo is part of the courtship process. (See page 28) It gives a whole new meaning to chasing your girl! Debra is offering a “Mongolian Horse Adventure trip” in 2017 for beginner to advanced photographers and horse enthusiasts. What an incredible trip that would be!

LOVE, ACTUALLY For those of us obsessed with horses, it is all about the love. The love of the temperament, the conformation, the performance, and most of all, I believe, the process. The process of caring for a horse is an endless education and never-ending task. There is an innate pleasure in looking at a lovely, happy horse, and knowing “I did that!”

Whether one bred it, trained it, or showed it, that horse is an extension of oneself. Love me, love my horse…

Next Deadline: February 3rd for the March 2017 Issue www.gaitpost.com

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The Sense of Touch

By Jochen Schleese, CMS, CSFT, CSE

S

omehow our society and culture has always had a thing about being as hairless as possible. Women shave (or wax) as much hair off their bodies as possible in North America; men have also started waxing their chests and backs. When did hair become such an undesirable attribute? In Europe there are still many cultures who consider hair a sign of virility (for men) or beauty (in women). Wasn’t it Samson who had his hair cut off at Delilah’s request and thereby lost his strength (and ended up blind?). But now we have taken this aversion to excess hair even to our animals — specifically our horses.

The consensus seems to be that it’s acceptable to cut/shave the whiskers, the ear hair, and sometimes even the eyelashes on horses when getting ready to show.

This really isn’t okay at all - for the following reasons, with thanks to Wikipedia and Paul McGreavy as references. Whiskers or vibrissae are actually a type of mammalian hair that are typically larger in size than normal hairs, have a large and well-innervated hair follicle, and have an identifiable representation in the somatosensory cortex of the brain. They are specialized eswww.gaitpost.com

pecially for tactile sensing while any type of hair has more crude tactile sensors.

Horses use their lips and whiskers to explore and identify things. A horse’s brain contains cells that receive information from these whiskers. Each time the horses’ whiskers touch something, the nerves fire off an electrical impulse to the brain to help determine what it is that is being touched. Horses breathe through their noses. When a horse curls its top lip up to help in smelling something, it’s known as “Flehmen”.

This happens when the nose traps pheromonal scents in the vomeronasal organs so they can be analysed more closely. Horse’s upper lips are prehensile – which means they can be used for grasping, touching or feeling something. Horses cannot see right below their noses because of the position of their eyes, which means that they use their whiskers to help them determine edible objects and stay away from hazardous ones.

If you remove these sensory organs, it is almost as though you were cutting off your fingertips. You would lose all sense of touch. I hope people will reconsider their personal vanities and do what’s right for the horse. ©Saddlefit 4 Life®2017. All Rights Reserved

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HEADLINENEWS Bit by Bit ISABELL WERTH TO HEADLINE ‘DRESSAGE SHOWCASE’ EXHIBITION Isabell Werth of Germany, the most decorated Dressage rider in Olympic history, will headline the special ‘Dressage Showcase’ at the FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha, March 29 – April 2, 2017. “Young Horses to Grand Prix with Olympic Champion Isabell Werth Presented by the Dressage Foundation” will take place on Friday, March 31 and will be Werth’s first-ever exhibition of this type in the U.S. The FEI World Cup Finals are equestrian sports’ top annual indoor championship for jumping and Dressage horses and draws the top names in the sport, including Olympic, World and European Champions. The 2017 FEI World Cup Finals at the CenturyLink Center in Omaha include the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Final and the FEI World Cup Dressage Final and will be the biggest event on this year’s international equestrian calendar.

Riders representing over 25 countries are expected for the Midwest’s first-ever international showdown and 70 of the world’s top riders in two Olympic disciplines will

join more than 60,000 fans from all 50 states and 20 countries for 5 days of action-packed competition and so much more!

“We are so excited that the legendary Isabell Werth is coming to Omaha!” said Lisa Roskens, Chairman of the Omaha Equestrian Foundation, producer of the 2017 FEI World Cup Finals. “The Dressage Showcase segment with Isabell Werth will give fans a rare opportunity to learn from an international star who has won more Olympic medals than any Dressage rider in history and we are delighted that she has chosen Omaha for her first-ever exhibition in the U.S.!”

PELLEGRINI, CO-FOUNDER OF FREEDOM HEALTH LLC, DEAD AT 52 Franklin L. Pellegrini, DVM, died December 22, 2016 at the age of 52 from natural causes. Pellegrini was one of the original founders of Freedom Health LLC and a pioneer in the field equine gastrointestinal diseases.

Pellegrini led the research to evaluate and demonstrate the utility of Succeed Digestive Conditioning Program, conducted the study first-hand that revealed the presence and prevalence of colonic ulceration in horses,

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and conceived the methodology for detecting GI tract lesions that is the basis of the Succeed Equine Fecal Blood Test. Pellegrini is named on multiple patents for both products, both in the US and in other countries around the world.

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY COMPLETES RESEARCH PROJECT Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) is pleased to announce the Baylor University research team recently completed its research project, ‘Examination of the Effects of Equine Assisted Activities on PTSD Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Functioning in Combat Veterans’. This 2014 HHRF awarded grant, led by Dr. Beth Lanning, is now being submitted for publication.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of an 8-week structured therapeutic horseback riding (THR) program on Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, quality of life, and functioning of combat veterans diagnosed with PTSD. Eighty-nine veterans met inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. Fifty-one participated in the THR program and 38 were in the waitlist/control group. Seventy-six percent completed all 8 weeks of the program and 55% completed the 2-month follow up surveys. Twenty-nine of the 38 waitlist/control group members completed all 8-weeks. The sample consisted of 62 males and 27 females, average age was 39 years, and most participants had completed at least 2 tours of duty.

Overall, the findings of this study support the beneficial effects of THR for veterans with PTSD. The participants reported clinically meaningful improvement in PTSD symptoms and mental health, and marked improvement in participation and overall functioning over the course of the program. The differences in PTSD and depression symptoms and overall mental health and functioning scores between the THR and Control group grew larger over time; the THR group reported more improvement in overall functioning than the Control group.

The size of the differences was found to be medium to large, indicating a moderate to high practical significance.

Qualitative analysis of post intervention interviews revealed several emerging themes that were consistent with the quantitative findings. Participants reported feeling anxious, depressed and isolated www.gaitpost.com

prior to the intervention. Post intervention responses indicated feelings of self-acceptance, increased confidence, gratitude, hope, reduced anxiety and anger, and increased patience. The participants also stated the importance of the barn environment and the unique relationship with the horse as key components that contributed to their improved quality of life and functioning.

TWO MILLION HORSES, DONKEYS, AND MULES REACHED THIS YEAR BY BROOKE This has been a landmark year for Brooke and its American fundraising affiliate, Brooke USA, headquartered in Kentucky. The equine welfare charity has met its ambitious goal, set almost six years ago, of reaching two million working horses, donkeys and mules in a single year — more than any other organization in the world.

Brooke was determined to reach this vast number of working horses and donkeys to relieve their suffering and improve welfare through training, research, and treatment. Its annual reach has grown by more than one million animals since 2011.

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BEHINDBARNDOORS

NOELLE FLOYD

Born in her backyard, India Blue ZF is now the top mount of Canada’s Julia Tops

GROWING TOGETHER: JULIA TOPS AND THE ZEIDLER FARM BREEDING PROGRAM

By Emily Riden

Y

oung Canadian show jumping athlete Julia Tops has ridden numerous talented mounts over the course of her 20 years, and the ones that have grown up in her own backyard are among the most special.

Just over a decade ago, Julia’s mother, Canadian Show Jumping Team veteran Tani Zeidler, launched a breeding program at the family’s Zeidler Farm. The homebreds live with Tani and Julia at their home in Calgary, Alberta, just a few minutes down the road from the world-famous Spruce Meadows venue. Consequently, Julia and the young horses have grown up side by side; her www.gaitpost.com

top mount, India Blue ZF, was born when Julia was just eight years old.

“It’s such an enjoyable experience,” said Julia, whose father is Dutch Olympic gold medalist and founder of the Longines Global Champions Tour, Jan Tops. “It takes a long time to develop a connection with a horse. Especially when you’re growing up, as a junior, you tend to only have a horse for a certain amount of time, unless you’re fortunate enough to find that nice one that you can continue to move up with. The breeding program became my solution to that.”

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JUMP MEDIA

Tani Zeidler and her daughter, Julia Tops, with one of their homebreds, India Blue ZF.

Behind Barn Doors continued from page 13 After years of patience, learning the ins-andouts of the young horses, and hoping that the investment of both time and money would pay off, Tani and Julia are now both reaping the rewards.

At present, several of the young horses, including eight-year-old Lady Margaret ZF (Cardento x Iroko), seven-year-old Zinnia ZF (For Pleasure x Iroko), and six-year-old Miquelon ZF (Calvados IV x Igor de Vauptain), and are successfully competing under young professional, Nick Dello Joio.

Julia’s star mount, however, is India Blue ZF, an 11-year-old mare by Mr. Blue and one of the very first Zeidler Farm offspring. Training under U.S. Olympic bronze medalist Norman Dello Joio, the pair has most recently been competing in the High Amateur-Owner Jumper division in Wellington, Florida, with great success, thanks in part to their special bond.

“I remember when ‘Apple’ wouldn’t drink her mother’s milk so we had to bottle-feed her, and now she’s my best horse!” said Julia of India Blue ZF. All the fillies born in the Zeidler Farm breeding program are nicknamed after fruit, while all the colts are nicknamed after vegetables (yes, there is even a Broccolini!).

“Having that kind of connection makes it 14

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all the better,” continued Julia, who balances showing with her second year of studying International Relations at the University of Toronto’s Trinity College. “I have a blast riding her. It doesn’t matter if I have a bad day and I miss, or if sometimes things don’t work out, I still have the time of my life riding her. I think it’s greatly to do with the fact that I grew up with her. We learned pretty much everything together.”

For Tani, there’s something extra-special about seeing her daughter partnered with her homebreds.

“The horses live with me at home; they are with me from birth on,” said Tani. “I ride them, I train them, and am very much a part of what they do. It’s like having a child. When I put Julia on one, I can’t even tell you how emotional it is!”

While being heavily involved in the breeding program’s daily operation comes with understandable emotional attachment, it also gives Tani unique insight into each of the horses she has bred.

“The one thing that really makes it work is that I know them so well,” explained Tani, who combines her intimate knowledge of the horses with her own show ring experience to work in the animals’ best interest. “If Julia calls and says,

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“Mom, the course is really big!” I can tell her or Nick not to worry, that particular horse can handle it. I know if the horse is fine or if they need to pull back.

“When you go to Europe and you buy a horse, like I have done many times over the years, you spend so much time getting to know it and figuring it out,” continued Tani. “It is very different knowing one from birth; I know everything about their personalities. One of the best parts about the breeding program is that when I sell one, I can say to the new owner “this is everything about it”.”

Likewise, Julia knows India Blue ZF like the back of her hand and hopes that their special partnership will allow them to progress throughout this year’s Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) season in Wellington, Florida. And while Julia and Nick Dello Joio may be the ones showing the Zeidler Farm horses this season, Julia is quick to credit her mother for the opportunity.

“My mom has done a really great job, and she’s really humble about it,” Julia said. “Both my parents are great horse people, and it has been especially inspiring to see my mom create a legacy through our homebreds. It’s been really great to watch her vision and her dream come www.gaitpost.com

To learn more about Julia Tops and the Zeidler Farm breeding program, visit www.zeidlerfarm.com.

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SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY Several horses bred by Zeidler Farm are competing under Nick Dello Joio including Lady Margaret ZF, pictured here competing at the 2016 Hampton Classic Horse Show in New York.

true. I’m very proud of her.”

For Tani, success for her homebreds comes in many forms. While it’s a thrill to watch the young horses develop and take their first steps into the show ring, it’s also fulfilling when they move on to new homes.

“It’s like having a child; you want them to do well and be successful, no matter where they end up,” said Tani. “I don’t care if they want to jump or do dressage; I just want the best for them.”

The Zeidler family has found a recipe for developing successful mounts, and many more products of the Zeidler Farm breeding program are sure to be seen in the show ring for years to come.

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EQUINE EMBRYO TRANSFER

By Tracy A. Plough, DVM, Dip ACT

E

mbryo transfer (ET) is an assisted reproductive technology in which the embryo of a donor mare is placed into a surrogate mare wherein the foal develops and is carried to term.

Some reasons chosen to use embryo transfer are: if a mare has a reproductive condition or injury that prevents her from carrying a foal to term, or to allow a performance mare to be kept in competition while still producing offspring, and also to maximize the reproductive potential of a mare whose foals are in high demand. Embryo transfer is an involved procedure, entailing precision in timing, careful monitoring of embryo donor and recipient mares.

Most people in the breeding industry have heard of embryo transfer and know what it is.

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However, there is still some confusion about the procedures and terms involved. I often hear people interchanging the words embryo and egg.

An embryo is the fertilized egg, whereas the egg is the female gamete (the oocyte), the male gamete being the sperm cell. Procedurally, the fact that traditional embryo transfer is becoming more mainstream in equine reproductive medicine, and there is an increase in general awareness of the more advanced techniques such as IVF (in vitro fertilization) or ICSI (intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) which may have led to some confusion.

ICSI is a procedure whereby the oocyte (egg) is harvested from the follicle on the mare’s ovary through a procedure called oocyte aspiration.

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THE DONOR MARE The initial process for ET begins like any other procedural pregnancy. Firstly, the donor mare should undergo a breeding soundness examination (BSE) to evaluate her ability to ovulate and produce an embryo. If any issues arise during the soundness examination they can be addressed. The mare is then monitored closely during the next suitable estrous cycle and bred close to ovulation. Close ultrasonographic monitoring of the mare in the immediate pre and post www.gaitpost.com

FOXCROFT FARM

The recovered oocyte is then fertilized with the direct injection of a sperm cell and incubated in the laboratory for six or seven days. The embryo at this stage can be transferred to a recipient mare that will carry the pregnancy to term.

In comparison, traditional embryo transfer involves fertilization taking place within the donor mare. This creates a number of requirements for the donor mare. She must be capable of ovulation, her egg (oocyte) must become fertilized by the stallion’s sperm within her oviduct and her uterus needs to be hospitable enough to allow for early embryonic development. Once all these conditions can be met, the resulting embryo is then flushed from her uterus 7–8 days after ovulation and transferred to a recipient mare that will carry the pregnancy to term.

Embryo transfer has become somewhat routine in assisted equine reproduction technology, however the practice of relocating an embryo from one mare to another is quite an involved procedure requiring detailed planning and experience to be effective. The key to its success is getting a healthy embryo, finding a reproductively sound and healthy recipient mare, and synchronizing the cycles of the donor and the recipient.

ovulation period is critical not only to address any problems that may arise but also so that the day of ovulation is definitive. All subsequent procedures are based on the day of ovulation, considered day zero, and which also determines the age of the embryo.

As mentioned earlier the chance of getting a viable embryo in the first place can be difficult and is further complicated by variables such as the age and reproductive health of the mare, and the semen quality and fertility of the stallion used.

Statistically, in younger mares with no reproductive problems, there is typically a 70–80% chance of getting an embryo in any one breeding cycle. However, as the mare enters her teen years, her fertility declines. The decline in fertility is even more pronounced in mares aged 18–21 years old. In these older mares, particularly ones that have never been pregnant or that have reproductive problems, the odds of getting an embryo per cycle may be less than 40%. To increase the chance of success it is important to use high quality semen from a highly fertile stallion.

THE RECIPIENT MARE: The importance of a good quality recipient mare cannot be overlooked — not any mare will do. Ideally for successful embryo transfers, 2–3 recipient mare candidates should be put forward Equine Embryo Transfer continued on page 18

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Equine Embryo Transfer continued from page 17 for each donor mare. Recipient mares should also undergo breeding soundness evaluations to make sure they are healthy enough to carry the foal to term. If any issues arise during the BSE, unsuitable mares are excluded. Many owners, being unaware of this, are sometimes disappointed to find out that mares they have chosen are not suitable. However, if the owner’s candidate mare(s) successfully meet the criteria to be a recipient, or, alternately, a veterinary pre-screened mare is used, the next challenge in the procedure is to synchronize the cycles of the donor mare and the potential recipients.

SYNCHRONIZATION One of the most critical elements to success of ET is the proper synchronization of the recipient mares to the cycle and ovulation date of the donor mare. It is necessary that the recipient mare’s uterus be ready to receive and nourish the embryo, this means that the recipient mare must ovulate the same day or one to two days after the

donor mare. Given that mares have an estrous cycle of 21–22 days and only one of these days will be the day of ovulation it is necessary to have several potential recipient being monitored by rectal palpation and ultrasound for ovulation at the same time as the donor mare.

To help tighten the gap between the donor and the recipient mares, at certain points during the cycle we can treat these mares with appropriate hormones to synchronize ovulation.

RECOVERING AND TRANSFERRING THE EMBRYO Embryo transfer takes place day 7 or 8 post ovulation. At this time the embryo is visible to the naked eye, measuring around 300 microns, or about the size of the period at the end of this sentence. The embryo collection process takes only about 30 minutes to perform, so if a mare is in competition she need only be available for a short time for flushing.

The embryo flushing and transfer procedures are quite technically involved. In summary, the mare’s uterus is flushed using a Foley catheter,

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2012 16.3 hh black/bay Hanoverian stallion by “For Pleasure” (Furioso II/Grannus) out of “Protégé” (Pilot/Woermann). “For Pleasure” received the astonishing Jumping Index of 162 in Germany!

Calm and exceptionally easy to ride and train.

Winner of the Thunderbird BC Sport Horse show in 2015, as well as the Young Horse Hunter and Dressage Horse Under Saddle Cup classes, receiving Reserve Champion Overall.

Contact Ingrid Holscher 604-760-4709 to learn more about this lovely young stallion.

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Y-tubing system, and connecting specialized embryo filter. The catheter is placed through the cervix of the mare and, by inflating a balloon located at its end, a fluid tight seal is formed.

The embryo flush fluids are introduced into the mare’s uterus in one liter increments and allowed to drain back, the embryo is swept out with the fluid, filtered, identified, removed and placed in an embryo-holding media.

For transfer into the selected recipient mare, the embryo is then carefully loaded into a ¼ cc straw and placed in a Cassou ET transfer pipette.

A sterile, disposable outer sheath and a thin plastic sanitary sleeve are placed over the transfer pipette that is then passed through the cervix of the recipient mare and the embryo is deposited.

The recipient is initially examined for pregnancy 5–6 days after transfer, and reexamined at 30 days for a heartbeat. Expected pregnancy rates after transfer are between 75–80%.

For more information about ET or other equine veterinary services contact the office of Plough Equine Veterinary Services by phone 604-837-2608 or email at pevs@telus.net

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INDUSTRYNEWS Business Matters

STARTING GATE COMMUNICATIONS

HOLLOW CREEK FARM PRESENTS UNDER 25 GRAND PRIX SERIES Emanuel Andrade, 20, of Venezuela will compete in the Hollow Creek Farm Under 25 Grand Prix Series at the 2017 Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL.

H

ollow Creek Farm will present the Under 25 Grand Prix Series held throughout the Winter Equestrian Festival from January 11 through April 2, 2017, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. Now in its seventh season, the Under 25 Grand Prix Series, presented by The Dutta Corp. in association with Guido Klatte, has been expanded to ten events offering a total of $215,000 in prize money for 2017. Showcasing the top young talent in show jumping sport, the Under 25 Grand Prix Series is open to riders of any nationality, aged 25 and under, capable of competing at the 1.45m level. New for 2017, all classes have been sanctioned as CSI-U25 events by the 20

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International Equestrian Federation (FEI), with the exception of the Team event, and will be held under FEI rules.

Hollow Creek Farm is home to 20-year-old Emanuel Andrade, one of the sport’s top upand-coming athletes who will be partaking in the Series. Despite his young age, Andrade has represented his native Venezuela in Olympic, World Equestrian Games, and Pan American Games competition. Having sponsored the Children, Junior, and Young Rider Nations’ Cup events for the past four years at the Winter Equestrian Festival, Hollow Creek Farm now turns its attention to the Under 25 competitors in 2017.

One of the features that Andrade appreciates

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most is that Under 25 riders can gain valuable FEI experience at the 1.45m level while competing against their peers.

Gaining positive experience is paramount for progress, and the variety offered in the Under 25 Grand Prix Series helps up-and-coming talent prepare for future competition, both as team members as well as individuals. Developed as a bridge to the international level of grand prix competition, the Series gives athletes, both human and equine, an opportunity to compete under a myriad of conditions, including jumping on grass, under the lights at night, and in team competition; all important elements that competitors will face as their international careers progress.

MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM ORGANIZES 7TH OPERATION GELDING CLINIC Operation Gelding clinic organizers Lacey Edge and Kaye Garrison have gelded 100 stallions through the Unwanted Horse Coalition’s Operation Gelding Program. Kaye and her

daughter, Lacey, have been organizing clinics since the program began in 2010. Lacey, who was 13 years old at the time, learned about the program after conducting research for a school project. This year, she returned from West Texas A&M University to continue the tradition.

A two-year-old, Crash, named for busting through several fences when he was only a few weeks old, was the 100th stallion to be gelded.

Industry News continued on page 22

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Industry News continued from page 21 Owner, Nikki Rebel, was grateful to find a clinic in her area.

“I was thrilled to attend this final clinic for 2016,” said UHC Director, Jennifer Purcell. “It was exciting to celebrate such a big milestone for the program, plus it was a chance to personally thank everyone involved. Dr. Freeny not only donated her time, but created a dynamic learning experience for the college and veterinary students who were there to help.”

SCHLEESE ANNOUNCES THE DEVIN GRACE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Created and managed by Schleese Saddlery Ltd., the Devin Grace Scholarship Fund is devoted to helping young riders get the most out of their equine experience through expert saddle fitting and performance. As such, the Devin Grace Scholarship Fund makes quality Schleese saddles available to deserving children whose families may not be able to afford the quality and craftsmanship of a proper fitting saddle.

Devin Grace Franktze was a young rider of 14 years old and a dear member of the Schleese extended family when she lost her life suddenly in a tragic car accident. The fund is set up in memory of her caring spirit, work ethic and passion for western riding in the Arizona desert on her beloved horse, Lady Bug. Devin cared deeply about the health of her horse and understood the importance of proper saddle fit. The DGSF’s mission is to help others experience the joy and satisfaction that she felt while riding the trails.

These values are shared by our Schleese and

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Saddlefit4Life teams who regularly meet deserving, hardworking youngsters in barns all over North America who understand the importance of proper saddle fit but for whom circumstances make a quality saddle unaffordable. Our field teams will identify potential candidates and encourage them to complete an application that will include a personal essay on what the child feels makes them deserving of one of the fund’s saddles, provide an endorsement from their teacher/coach/trainer/mentor and a letter of applications from their parent(s).

Each Devin Grace Scholarship Fund saddle will be stamped, “On loan to this deserving rider” as recognition of the child’s achievement.

Then, when the child outgrows the saddle or stops riding for any reason, it will be returned to the fund to be put back into circulation for yet another child in need. As the scholarship funds accumulate, saddles will be awarded in order of acceptance. Saddles styles made available will include pony, western, dressage and jumping.

Schleese Saddlery Ltd has committed to donating a percentage of every SWS “Devin” western riding saddle to The Devin Grace Scholarship Fund.

EQUESTRIAN CANADA TO IMPLEMENT GROUNDBREAKING ATHLETE CONCUSSION PROTOCOLS Equestrian Canada (EC) has become one of the first national governing bodies for sport in Canada to release official, sport-specific guidelines on return-to-play protocols for athlete concussions.

“Parachute congratulates Equestrian Canada

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in creating a Return-to-Play protocol that will help educate and monitor concussion in their sport,” said Pamela Fuselli, Interim CEO of Parachute, a national charitable organization in Canada dedicated to preventing injuries and saving lives.

EC’s concussion-related Accidents & Returnto-Play rule will come into effect Jan. 1, 2017 for all EC sanctioned competitions in Canada.

“When concussion occurs, it is of the utmost importance that they be recognized and that we limit athletes’ exposure to another potential concussion soon after the first,” said Dr. Rob Stevenson, a Canadian Olympian in eventing who was appointed FEI National Safety Officer for Canada in 2012 and was part of the concussion working group led by EC Head of Sport Science, Jessica Dilliott. Additional members of the working group included EC Manager of Technical Development, Rachel Huebert, Jan Stephens, Jane Tidball, Chris Pack, Doug Orr, Anne Welch and Fran McAvity.

“Though we acknowledge that equestrian sports have an inherent risk in participation, we recognize that there is no need to increase risk unnecessarily,” continued Dr. Stevenson.

Key components of the new Accidents & Return to Play rule will include the following: • In the event of a fall/accident where a concussion can be reasonably suspected, the competitors must receive medical clearance by qualified medical personnel onsite before continuing to compete.

• The competitor is solely responsible for ensuring the onsite medical assessment takes place. Should a competitor refuse to be evaluated, they will be disqualified from the competition.

• If onsite qualified medical personnel suspect a concussion or believe the competitor may be at risk of concussion due to the nature of the fall or impact, the competitor will be suspended from competition and placed on a Medical Suspension List until medically released.

• Competitors will remain on the EC Medical Suspension List until they submit an EC Rewww.gaitpost.com

turn to Play Form, signed by a licensed physician, to EC. • No competitor shall compete at EC sanctioned competitions while on the EC Medical Suspension List and competition organizers may refuse entry to anyone currently on the list.

“We will now be able to track the incidence of concussions at EC sanctioned competitions in Canada,” explained Dr. Stevenson. “In addition, the implementation of a concussion-related educational program will allow us to seek to reduce the risk of the potentially devastating Second Impact Syndrome, as well as assist concussed athletes return safely to the sport through return-to-play guidelines.”

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FEINEWS FEI/DIRK CAREMANS

Germany’s Daniel Deusser jumps to the top of the Longines rankings.

GERMANY’S DANIEL DEUSSER NEW WORLD NUMBER ONE IN LONGINES RANKINGS

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ermany’s Daniel Deusser goes into 2017 as the new world number one in the Longines rankings, overtaking fellow-countryman Christian Ahlmann who has enjoyed a lengthy period in pole position. And America’s Kent Farrington (3rd) and McLain Ward (4th) have relegated Simon Delestre to fifth spot ahead of his French compatriot Kevin Staut.

Germany’s Marcus Ehning remains in seventh place while Canada’s Rio Olympic individual bronze medallist Eric Lamaze has slipped slightly from sixth to eighth.

Deusser was lying third at the end of the previous rankings period, and a great run during the London International Horse Show at Olympia just before Christmas where he won the Grand Prix with Equita van T Zorgvliet, has helped promote him to the top slot. With 3,076 points, the 35-year-old heads Ahlmann by a full 24

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70 points (3,006), while Farrington (2,950) just shades Ward (2,940). There has been little dramatic change in the top 10, although Frenchwoman Penelope Leprevost has dropped one place to 10th, while former world number one, Great Britain’s Scott Brash, has moved back into the top 10, up from 13th to ninth spot.

The new rankings reflect some super-competitive performances from riders who have the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping 2017 Final in Omaha, Nebraska (USA) in their sights. Deusser, who took the 2014 title and who, along with Ahlmann, was a member of the bronze medal winning German side at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, still has some work to do to earn his place on the starting blocks at the Final.

Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat, 11th in the New Year rankings list, will be going for a back-toback hat-trick of Longines titles when the Final

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FEI ANNOUNCES CANDIDATE CITIES FOR FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES 2022 Two cities have been announced as Official Candidates to host the FEI World Equestrian Games 2022. Lexington, Kentucky (USA) and Samorin (SVK) have both been selected as potential hosts for the FEI flagship in six years’ time.

“We are very happy to have two such strong official candidates for the 2022 FEI World Equestrian Games,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.

“Both the Kentucky and Samorin venues have the infrastructure in place already to host the Games, which is one of the biggest events on the global sporting calendar.”

“The last edition in Normandy two years ago attracted more than half a million spectators and a worldwide television audience of 350 million, delivering a significant economic impact to the French economy.”

“There’s no doubt that these Games are a huge undertaking, but we believe both Samorin and Kentucky have the capability to host spectacular Games and we look forward to working with them through the further stages of the bid process over the next year.”

The next phase in the decision-making process for the 2022 Games will include site visits between January and May 2017, with a deadline of June 2017 for submission of the Candidates’ complete bid and signed host agreement. The Candidates will make formal presentations to the FEI Evaluation Commission in the third quarter

FEI/JON STROUD MEDIA

gets underway on March 27th.

Great Britain’s Carl Hester won the fifth leg of the FEI World Cup Dressage 2016/2017 Western European League with Nip Tuck at London Olympia (GBR) tonight. (Jon Stroud Media/FEI)

of 2017, with the final FEI Bureau decision and allocation of the Games in November 2017 HESTER WINS AND VALEGRO BOWS OUT ON A NIGHT TO REMEMBER AT OLYMPIA On an electrifying night at the London International Horse Show, Carl Hester won the fifth leg of the FEI World Cup Dressage 2016/2017 Western European League with Nip Tuck. This FEI News continued on page 27

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INTEGRATED EQUINE THERAPIES with Tom Mayes

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om Mayes is an Equine Practitioner and Clinician with Integrated Equine Therapies who has been servicing horses and teaching his signature methods through Clinics for over a decade. Areas of practice are Osteopathy, CranioSacral, Applied Kinesiology, Acupressure, and Reiki. He has clients from all over the world who seek him out for professional and personal development.

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pology, Environmental Studies, and holds a California Teaching Credential. He was a distinguished K12 educator for 20 years, four time recipient of the “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers”, developed science and math curriculum with UC Davis and the National Science Foundation, and has abundant state and local recognition for his unique hands-on approach. Tom’s father was a world-famous researcher in the field of Endocrinology. He instilled in him a deep re-

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spect for scientific method, for verifying results, and for ongoing research. These clinics are about weaving technique with intuition, left brain with the right, Newtonian physics with quantum.

Intensive clinics are a perfect way to accelerate awareness, skills and abilities with horses.

Intensives are designed for greater personalized instruction with a limited group size. There is abundant one-on-one guidance, feedback, encouragement, and mentoring and ample opportunities for questions. Each day starts with introducing, clarifying and expanding new concepts, techniques, and clinical applications, then demonstrations and specific hands-on training begin. The afternoon is devoted to working on applying and refining concepts and skills taught earlier, on a variety of horses. By treating a diversity of horses, participants gain mastery of skills and techniques by experiencing the various ways a condition can present itself.

Completion of the Intro Intensive gives you the skills to: • access metabolic and lameness patterns throughout the horse, including most vertebra, rib, and joint dysfunctions • to connect on a deep level with every horse • Be proficient at applied kinesiology as a valuable diagnostic tool • Utilize human reflex and acupoints to test assess and verify results • Gain background in acupressure (Traditional Chinese Medicine) • to determine the true nutritional needs of any horse.

FEI News continued from page 25 was a back-to-back double on home ground for the 49-year-old British star and his 12-year-old gelding, but the man who has been largely responsible for placing British Dressage firmly on centre stage in recent years had to battle for the limelight, as his victory was quickly followed by an emotional farewell performance by his stablestar, Valegro.

Hester, whose own career is filled with major highlights, is the man who created the fairytale partnership between Charlotte Dujardin and the amazing gelding Valegro who, together, have become icons in the sport over the last five years.

Breaking world records was all in a day’s work for this sensational duo, but just a few short months after adding to their haul of Olympic gold in Rio, the 14-year-old horse was tonight officially retired from the sport after presenting one last stunning performance of their winning London 2012 Olympic Games Freestyle test.

Hester, who trained and mentored the pair, said, “It has been a such a joyous occasion — I know everyone wanted it to be sad but how could anyone be sad to see Valegro go out so fit and well and happy — it’s been a happy sad day!”

Dujardin described Valegro as, “just the perfect horse, with the biggest heart in the world, he always gave me his very best!” Fellow-Olympian, Richard Davison, put it all in perspective when he said tonight that it was “the alchemy” between Hester, Dujardin and this very special horse that has been key to this extraordinary success story.

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riding with the A MO NG O LI AN W AY OF L IF E

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eagles

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY

BY DEBRA GARSIDE

m

ongolia is a land of great contrasts. From the smog-choked capital city of Ulaanbaatar to the vast grassland steppes, Altai Mountains and Gobi Desert, it is one of the last remote locations relatively untouched by mass tourism.

It is a place steeped in cultural diversity — a curious blend of shamanism, Buddhism and Islamic practices. It is a country whose horse population exceeds its human population of just over three million with a full 30% of these people being nomadic, or semi-nomadic horsemen whose culture dates to the Bronze Age (3500-2500 BC).

It was my search to document this fascinating horse culture that led me to Mongolia in September 2016. My goal was to photograph traditional Mongolian horsemanship, to learn about their training methods, and to locate the rare and endangered “Tahki” also known as the Przewalski’s Horse. My journey led me first to the capital city, then a further 4 hour flight to the western-most province of Bayan-Oglii. Here I had the honour of residing with a nomadic eagle hunting family while photographing their daily life and attending the local Golden Eagle Festival. What follows is an account of my experiences there.

The family that was my host were of Kazakh heritage and lived in the traditional tents known as ‘gers’. Moving seasonally with their livestock to search for grazing, these herdsman manage several hundred goats, sheep and yak from horseback. The tradition of ‘horse-riding eagle falconry’ dates back 2000 years to the time of Genghis Kahn. The golden eagles used by the Altai-Kazakhs are born in captivity and are trained Riding with the Eagles continued on page 30

Galloping with eagles — the Golden Eagle Festival hosts 100 or more eagle hunters every year. www.gaitpost.com

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Riding with the Eagles continued from page 29 to hunt small game such as foxes and rabbit.

Eagle hunting skills and games on horseback are the highlights of the Naadam and Golden Eagle Festivals which bring spectators from around the world.

The Mongolian Horse that they use for sport and work, is a small, rugged and sure-footed animal known for its endurance. Horses are still the primary form of transportation in rural areas. Unchanged in thousands of years, the Mongolian horse stands a mere 13.2–14.2 hh and is slight of build.

My host family owned 12 such horses, and upon meeting the family I presented the 82 year old patriarch Soltumbai with a gift of several very sharp hoof knives and two western style bits, with jointed copper mouth pieces and silver shanks. This sparked a lot of raised eyebrows and questioning looks. In turn I was gifted a yak wool

pouch and an eagle feather. As I was shown his horses, I asked through my interpreter, about the importance of horses to his family. “They are everything.” He said. “What is your horse’s name?”

I asked, pointing to his geriatric pinto gelding.

“Name?” he laughed “Only people have names!”

Horses, dogs and eagles are referred to simply by their age, colour or distinguishing marks.

As a horsewoman, the first place my eyes always go is to a horse’s feet. I was surprised to see that the horses were all shod and it was explained that because this region is so rocky, shoeing is necessary to keep the horses’ hooves in good shape. I asked permission to pick up a horse’s leg to examine the shoes and was startled at the primitive construct and seating of the shoe. I asked to see a horse being shod and Soltumbai agreed that one of his 8 sons would make this demonstration for me.

A young stallion was removed from the herd

Farriers, admit it! You fantasize shoeing this way with at least one of your clients.

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and led over to the ger camp. Three young men began to restrain the horse with ropes and before I knew it the horse was laid on the ground and turned over on its back. One fellow held steady the horse’s legs, one knelt on the horse’s neck and the other performed the farrier work. A primitive steel block served as an anvil and the hand forged shoes and enormous nails were roughly shaped.

Each shoe had four large nail holes and, once seated, the nails protruded 2–3 centimeters serving to elevate the horse’s foot from the rocky terrain (similar to the way we would use ice nails).

No hoof trimming took place. The shoes were nailed on in 15 minutes and the nails were clenched over with a standard pair of pliers. There was no rasping or reshaping of the foot whatsoever. Soon the rope restraints were slipped and the horse stood up, gave a shake, and walked back to its herd. I assumed at this point the hoof knives I brought them would likely get

used for other purposes!

The following day I arose early to capture sunrise photos around the camp. As the stars disappeared and the sky began to take on morning colours, yak dung smoke appeared from the vents of the ‘ger’ tents, and the daily routine was underway. The women went down to the creek with naked babies in tow, to get water for making yak milk tea. The men arose and began to survey their livestock. It was discovered that a ‘neighbour’s’ ram had infiltrated the herd during the night and would not be caught.

Jumping into action, one of the herdsman quickly grabbed a rope, bridled his horse, jumped on bareback and proceeded to chase Riding with the Eagles continued on page 32

The nomadic life.

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Riding with the Eagles continued from page 31 down the offending ram. Once caught the ram was dragged noisily off across the steppes to the next closest camp.

The daily routine resumed around the camp, as yaks were milked and tea was served with fried bread. Soon a few horses were saddled and the herdsman moved their goats, sheep and yak away to further grazing. Upon their return, I was treated to a private eagle training demonstration.

The family was preparing to compete in the upcoming Golden Eagle Festival and in a few days’ time would make the 80-km trek by horseback to the event. In the official competition, the eagle is released by one handler who stands several hundred feet away on a mountain, while the other handler, mounted on horseback, calls the eagle in and waives raw meat to bait the bird to a landing crutch. The judging is based on how quickly and directly the eagle comes to its owner, and on the showmanship of the catch. Having the eagle land on the rider’s hand while galloping is quite spectacular.

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After the eagle practice, I was invited to ride Soltumbai’s pinto and graciously accepted. I was given instructions on how to make the horse go and was advised to use the whip and say the word “choo!” Leg aids apparently did not factor much into it. I enquired about the word for stop and they all looked at one another and shrugged.

There was no such word. Thankfully the aged horse took much encouragement just to gear up to a trot and was ever so grateful to ‘whoa’.

The following day I travelled by rustic Russian van to the site of the Golden Eagle Festival.

A small town virtually springs up in a couple of hours, as vendors set up their wares, tour companies erect meal tents, and horsemen appear from every direction from across the steppes and the mountainous passes. Not a single horse trailer to be seen! A makeshift arena is roped off and 100 or more eagle hunters and huntresses gather to

Canada’s Greatest Little Horse Mag

Above: Riding with eagles, with a ‘ger’ in the background.

Right: A proud catch.

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Aisholpan, a 15-year-old Eagle Huntress.

Riding with the Eagles continued from page 32 register for the competition. Among them were some of the best-known contestants including the 15 year old girl, Aisholpan, star of the recently released documentary The Eagle Huntress.

Other events of the Festival included a traditional display of an ancient courtship ritual whereby the female rider gallops into the arena chased by her hopeful suitor. He must capture

her by reaching out to stop her horse by the bridle while she fends him off with a horse whip!

Love Mongolian style!

Camel and horse racing also take place and the day culminates with all the participants dancing in the arena with their horses and eagles.

It is a spectacular sight to photograph!

Next issue: More on Mongolian horsemanship and a search for the rare Przewalski Horses.

ABOUT DEBRA GARSIDE Debra Garside was formerly one of Canada’s most accredited coaches and hunter jumper riders. After retiring from horse sport in 2008, she has pursued a career as professional nature and cultural photographer. Her images have garnered international acclaim including a polar bear image now hanging in the Smithsonian National Natural History Museum in Washington, DC. Debra is currently offering photography adventure tours to Sable Island, Mongolia and other horse-oriented locations, as well as weekend workshops in Alberta to see the wild horses there.

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“The Mongolian Horse Adventure trip now being offered in September 2017 is an itinerary specifically gear towards horse enthusiasts. Beginner through advanced photographers will hone their skills and be presented with photo and educational opportunities seldom offered to the public. Join me for this wonderful adventure!” For more info please visit her website at www.truenorthfineimages.com or find her on facebook. Trip enquiries can also be made to tnfineimages@gmail.com or by calling Debra directly at 403-617-0588.

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DISCIPLINEREPORTS What’s Happening in all the Disciplines

ROLEX/KIT HOUGHTON

Eric Lamaze and Fine Lady 5 on their way to victory in the f300,000 Rolex Top Ten Final, December 9, in Geneva.

CANADA’S ERIC LAMAZE WINS ROLEX TOP TEN FINAL IN GENEVA

C

anada’s Eric Lamaze claimed the c300,000 Rolex Top Ten Final riding his Rio Olympic bronze medal partner, Fine Lady 5, on December 9th in Geneva, Switzerland.

With the top ten riders in the world show jumping rankings going head-to-head in a tworound showdown of epic proportions, Lamaze jumped clear in the opening round riding Fine Lady 5, a 13-year-old Hanoverian mare (Forsyth x Drosselklang II) owned by Artisan Farms. As Lamaze and Fine Lady 5 had posted the fastest clear in the opening round, they had the luxury of going last in the all-deciding second round of competition. www.gaitpost.com

Currently ranked number one in the world, Germany’s Christian Ahlmann had set the time to beat at 43.05 seconds riding Taloubet Z, forcing Lamaze to take every risk and rely on Fine Lady 5’s tremendously fast foot speed in a full-out effort to catch his time. Coming home to the final fence on course, the packed house cheered encouragement as Lamaze and Fine Lady 5 sailed over the Rolex oxer and stopped the clock in 42.56 seconds to take the win. Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat, the 2012 Olympic Champion, was the only other rider to jump double clear, placing third

Canada’s Greatest Little Horse Mag

Discipline Reports continued on page 36 FEBRUARY 2017

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FEI/TOMAS HOLCBECHER

ARND BRONKHORST PHOTOGRAPHY Germany’s Christian Ahlmann (left) and Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat hoist Eric Lamaze holding the Rolex IJRC Top Ten trophy in an impromptu podium celebration.

Discipline Reports continued from page 35 riding Corbinian with a time of 44.30 seconds.

Lamaze has contested the Rolex IJRC Top Ten Final four previous times in his career with his best finish coming in 2011 when he was the runner-up riding Coriana van Klapscheut, also owned by Artisan Farms. His other three appearances, in 2008, 2009 and 2010, were all aboard the legendary stallion Hickstead, the horse that carried him to the 2008 Olympic championship title as well as the team silver for Canada. Lamaze is the only Canadian to have ever contested the Rolex IJRC Top Ten Final in its 16-year history.

“As a Canadian, I am extremely proud to bring this title back to Canada,” said Lamaze, 48, who has won Olympic gold, silver and bronze medals for his country. “I hope this gives great hope to the new generation of riders back home.

Everything is possible.”

SHOW JUMPING RESULTS 2016/2017 WESTERN EUROPEAN LEAGUE ROUND 8 RESULTS 1. Hello M’Lady (Scott Brash) GBR 0/0 38.73; 2. Diva ll (Ben Maher) GBR 0/0 38.85; 3. H&M Harley vd Bisschop (Nicola Philippaerts) BEL 0/39.07; 4. Zeremonia (Laura Kraut) USA 0/0 39.63; 5. Ornellaia (John Whitaker) GBR 0/0 39.70; 6. Limestone Grey (Lorenzo de Luca) ITA 0/4 39.10; 7. H&M Cue Channa (Malin Baryard-Johnsson) SWE 0/4 41.17; 8. Quenelle du Py (Olivier Robert) FRA 0/4 41.57.

DRESSAGE REPORT SUPER WIN FOR SCHNEIDER AND SHOWTIME IN SALZBURG Germany’s Dorothee Schneider and Showtime FRH were convincing winners of the fourth leg of the FEI World Cup Dressage 2016/2017 Western European League at Salzburg in Austria. From 36

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Germany’s Dorothee Schneider and Showtime FRH were convincing winners of the fourth leg of the FEI World Cup Dressage 2016/2017 Western European League at Salzburg in Austria.

a starting field of 13, the world no. 3 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games gold-medal-winning partnership finished more than five full percentage points ahead of runners-up Severo Jesus Jurado Lopez and Lorenzo from Spain. And on another really strong day for the German contingent, it was Jessica von Bredow-Werndl who slotted into third place with Unee BB ahead of compatriot Fabienne Lutkemeier and D’Agostini FRH in fourth.

Australia’s Kristy Oatley and Du Soleil held the advantage going into the judging break on a score of 76.998, and her sixth-place finish at the end of the day has moved her up to the top of the League leaderboard, ahead of Lutkemeier, going into the fifth leg at London Olympia (GBR) earlier that week.

However 47-year-old Schneider and her 10-year-old gelding set a whole new standard when posting 85.292 for a fabulous test when fifth-last to go. Jurado Lopez achieved the only other over-80 percent score, his 10-year-old gelding swaggering to the strains of Santana during an exuberant performance that earned a mark of 80.273. The fresh Austrian air seemed to add an extra spring to the step of several of the horses and the Spaniard didn’t showcase his trademark one-handed final centreline, while third-placed von Bredow-Werndl admitted that her 16-year-

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DRESSAGE RESULTS FEI WORLD CUP DRESSAGE 2016/2017 WESTERN EUROPEAN LEAGUE AT SALZBURG IN AUSTRIA RESULTS: 1, Showtime FRH (Dorothee Schneider) GER 85.292; 2, Lorenzo (Severo Jesus Jurado Lopez) ESP 80.273; 3, Unee BB (Jessica von Bredow-Werndl) GER 79.275; 4, D’Agostino FRH (Fabienne Lutkemeier) GER 78.222; 5, Cennin (Madeleine Witte-Vrees) NED 77.027; 6, Du Soleil (Kristy Oatley) AUS 76.998; 7, Imperio (Hubertus Schmidt) GER 76.131; 8, Finckenstein TSF (Rikke Svane) DEN 74.896; 9, Foco Loco W (Borja Carrascosa) ESP 74.567; 10, Don Gregorius (Inna Logutenkova) UKR 72.857; 11, DSP Rodriguez (Astrid Neumayer) AUT 72.628; 12, Sohnlein Brilliant MJ (Belinda Weinbauer) AUT 72.397; 13, Fuerstano (Juliane Brinkhorst) GER 71.602.

DRIVING REPORT IJSBRAND CHARDON IS THE MASTER IN MECHELEN After a very close battle it was Dutchman IJsbrand Chardon who took the top honours by winning the FEI World Cup Driving leg in Mechelen for the first time in his career tonight.

Chardon stayed ahead of his rival, Australia’s Boyd Exell, for the second time this season. Exell finished in second place, ahead of Swiss driver Jerome Voutaz.

Five-time Mechelen-winner Koos de Ronde (NED) was a fraction of a second too slow to qualify for the winning round, in which the top three drivers started from scratch again. Glenn Geerts (BEL), who competed with a wild card, as well as Exell and De Ronde took the fifth place.

Dutch Level 4 Course Designer Jeroen Houterman had designed a challenging course with three marathon type obstacles and a bridge.

Boyd Exell made a mistake twice in the third marathon obstacle, which cost him precious seconds in the first round and a knock down in the winning round: “In the first round I came in too fast and the loop in my reins was too long,” exwww.gaitpost.com

FEI/DIRK CAREMANS

old stallion was also feeling “a bit cheeky” on his first outing in eight months when scoring 79.275.

But despite the fact that this was Showtime’s first start since the Games in August, Schneider and her lovely gelding, who also topped yesterday’s Grand Prix, were in a league of their own.

“It’s the same Freestyle as Rio, we started doing it in May this year and it’s very perfect for this horse!” said the German rider who believes Showtime has even more to give. “He’s young and needs a little bit more power, but he has so much rhythm and energy and I know we can improve,” she said.

The Netherlands’ IJsbrand Chardon was thrilled to win the FEI World Cup Driving leg in Mechelen (BEL) for the first time in his career.

plained Exell. “This was a driver mistake. In the winning round my rein got caught at the bottom of my whip. But I am very pleased with my horses and have to be a good sportsman, so I am happy with my second place.”

He did however put the pressure on Chardon, who was the last man in: “The footing was quite heavy, which made my horses a bit stronger. I did not have the great feeling I had when I won in Stuttgart, but I will keep on working on this team,” he said. Chardon competed on 12 previous occasions in Mechelen, which has been part of the series since 2001.

Jérôme Voutaz qualified for the Winning Round by driving a very fast round in which he was three seconds faster than Chardon, but one knock down kept him from taking the lead.

In the second round, which took place over a shortened course, the mechanic by profession picked up one ball again but he was nevertheless very pleased with his performance: “My horses went extremely well. I used two other horses compared to the previous events and I am very pleased with them. I also very much enjoyed driving this course. In the winning round I was determined not to make any mistakes and it was great to compete against the two best drivers in the world!”

DRIVING RESULTS FEI WORLD CUP DRIVING, MECHELEN (BEL), 30 DECEMBER 2016 RESULTS: 1.

IJsbrand Chardon (NED) 128.71; 2. Boyd Exell (AUS) 134.55; 3. Jérôme Voutaz (SUI) 140.97; 4. Koos de Ronde (NED) 144.05; 5. Glenn Geerts (BEL) 147.04; 6.

Theo Timmerman (NED) 152.19; 7. Georg von Stein (GER) 158.13; 8. Rainer Duen (GER) 168.33.

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For further information, contact Tosca 604-377-9500 or twinrivers00@shaw.ca A&T Equestrian Centre | 4615 190th Surrey BC, V3Z 1B2 Specializing in equestrian sports for children · Children and adult lessons from beginner to competition · Preschool lessons · Summer camps · Spring break and Pro-D day camps · Birthday parties · Girl guide programs · School and preschool fields trips · Stable management Phone: 604-574-3211 | Email: atequestrian@shaw.ca Website - aandtequestrian.com www.taylordressage.com · 604-788-8430 NCCP Level 3 Dressage Coach High Performance 1 Certified Coach “Let’s get ready for a fun and successful 2017!”

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EQUESTRIAN PROPERTIES 24061 55 Ave, Langley, BC · $1,445,000 1.14 acre property, fully fenced and cross fenced. Two stall barn, paddock and 60' x 120' all weather riding ring. Beautifully renovated 2,863 sq. ft. 4 bedroom 3 bathroom home. MLS #R2112439. View video at http://www.cotala.com/20891 Contact Eric Buan · 604-868-5200 eric@ericbuanhomes.com HomeLife Benchmark Realty 6851 Sprout Road, Comox Valley · $780,000 Turn-key equestrian 5 acres. Well laid-out home with walk out bsmnt, 3 bd 2 bth. Mountain views! Generous sized stalls, cross ties, tack rm, ~54' x 60'. 100' x 220' riding ring with good sand footing, irrigation, lighting. Additional 70' x 100' warm up ring with hog fuel.

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by Carthago Sun III. Very nice mover, very brave, suit Eventing or Dressage. Currently doing courses 3' with ease, always keen to jump. $15,000. Contact 403-391-8364 or trmm bella@gmail.com. W. of Sylvan Lake, AB. www.gaitpost.com

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BROODMARES

Chanel II: 10 yo 16.1 hh black CWHBA mare by Florian, in foal to Aquilan Calypso. Solid mare has produced elegant foals in the past. Sire of in utero foal was a successful Grand Prix horse who has produced top quality foals with scope and power. Foals have amazing temperaments, and are lovely to work with. $5,500 OBO. Contact 250-301-1281 or lana-smith@live.ca.

Brooklyn RPH: 8 yo 17 hh bay CWB mare by Barricello (Balou du Rouet) in foal to approved CWB stallion Leeto Z (Lucino x Crack). Produces big, elegant, fancy foals. Nice, modern Hunter type. Photos and video available of foals and sire of in utero foals. Great opportunity to have an athletic, beautiful foal this spring. Mare is due May 14th. $6,500 OBO. Contact 250-301-1281 or lana-smith@live.ca.

EVENTING

PROSPECTS

BC Braith: 2008 16.3 hh Welsh Cob/TB gelding. Jumped to 3'9", competed to Training.

Bathes, clips, ties, trims, floats. No vices. Beautiful temp. Honest, brave, scopey. No buck, bolt, rear. Awesome feet & bone. $25,000 CAN.. Contact 604-905-9578, ginofalltrades@gmail.com.

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Sapphire: 2013 15.1 hh CWHBA filly by Skeptic. Very cool brain, easy & fun. Will make an awesome Children’s Hunter with mileage. Well handled, ready to start. Full x-rays & vetting available. UTD on vax & teeth. $4,000 OBO. Contact 250-301-1281 or lana-smith@live.ca.

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HUNTERS

Milly: 5 yo 16 hh reg’d APHA paint mare. Proven a versatile show quality individual. Shown as a weanling and yearling, winning APHC Canadian Colour Futurity Halter Champion both times. Earned numerous High Point and Championship awards in 2' H/J Rail and Developing Horse Dressage Classes.

Very kind, willing, pleasant disposition. No vices. A nice mover and very well started. Suit youth, nonpro or amateur (Eng. or Western) in all levels from Pony Club, 4H, Open or Breed show competition.

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JUMPERS

Ramona: 17 yo 15.2 hh chestnut registered Canadian Warmblood mare. Lots of chrome. This pretty little mare has done it all. The perfect school master for a child/amateur moving up or coming off a pony.

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TRAILERS

Atticus RPH: 6 yo 17.1 hh CWB gelding. Big, fancy, tons of scope, keen & brave to the jumps.

Straightforward ride around courses. Can be lazy on the flat, but not excessively. Shown 2'6 & 0.85, schooled to 3'6. $19,500 OBO. Contact 250-301-1281 or lana-smith@live.ca. www.gaitpost.com

2015 LQ 3H Lakota trailer. Model C839 champagne colour. Has all the options. Awning, mangers, carpeted rear tack, walk through to horses, queen bed, air conditioning, fridge, cooktop, bathroom/shower, power jack. Contact nvfarms66@gmail.com.

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FEI/DIRK CAREMANS

COMPETITIONCALENDAR More details on Gaitpost.com!

BRITISH COLUMBIA Feb 17 - 19 Feb 25 - 26 Apr 30

World No. 1, Germany’s Kristina Boe, got her FEI World Cup Vaulting 2016/2017 campaign off to the perfect start with victory at the fourth leg of the series in Mechelen, Belgium.

ALBERTA Feb 4 – 5

Feb 11 – 12

Discipline Reports continued from page 37

VAULTING REPORT BOE, HEILAND AND LUPACCHINI AND STOPAZZINI DOMINATE IN TENSE QUALIFIER AT MECHELEN The fourth leg of FEI World Cup Vaulting 2016/2017 series got underway at Jumping Mechelen (BEL) featuring a star-studded line-up with the current World Number 1 athletes, Germany’s Jannis Drewell and Kristina Boe, both in attendance.

Boe got her World Cup campaign off to the perfect start, taking the female title, whilst her training partner and team mate Jannik Heiland won in the male category. Lorenzo Lupacchini and Silvia Stopazzini continued their Pas de Deux dominance to take their second victory of the season with a personal best score.

Spectators in Mechelen were gifted a belated Christmas treat of watching highly competitive classes that exceeded expectations as the series edges closer to the final in Dortmund (GER) in March.

The male category got the action underway in with a class full of previous medal winners.

Following a dominant first round performance, Jannik Heiland (GER) managed to hold his nerve and fend off the competition to take the title on a score of 8,528.

Jannis Drewell and his well-established team of mother Simone Drewell on the lunge and the 18 year-old horse Diabolus 3, managed to imDiscipline Reports continued on page 46 44

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Gateway Park Select – Thunderbird Show Park, Langley BC Chris@tbird.ca Gateway Dressage – Thunderbird Show Park, Langley BC Chris@tbird.ca Langley Riders Show, Langley, BC Becky: (778) 989-4624, chicklet1976@live.com www.langleyriders.com

Feb 25

Spruce Meadows February Classic I, Calgary, AB Spruce Meadows, Joanne: (403) 974-4200 joanne.nimitz@sprucemeadows.com, www.sprucemeadows.com/tournaments Amberlea Meadows Hunter/Jumper Tournament #1, Edmonton, AB. Gerald: (780) 955-7608, showoffice@amberleameadows.com www.amberleameadows.com/horse_shows/Horse_ Shows.htm Cochrane Horse Show, Cochrane, AB Molly Sapergia: (403) 973-3250, cochraneagsociety@ gmail.com, cochraneagsociety.com

Please confirm with event organizers before attending any events. Some events are changed or cancelled without our knowledge. Submit calendar events at www.gaitpost.com/calendar. Calendar events must be submitted by the print deadline, in order to be considered for inclusion in the next issue. The Gaitpost Calendar is a free service.

Newsletter of the BC Hunter Jumper Association

BCHJA News

The mission of the BCHJA is to support and promote British Columbia’s Hunter and Jumper riders at all levels. As a Provincial Association, the BCHJA works closely with Horse Council British Columbia, Equine Canada and the Jump Canada Committee to maintain high standards for our competitions, with safety and good sportsmanship being of primary focus. The BCHJA endeavours to give financial assistance to its members on the basis of excellent performance and to promote education.

2017 memberships are available on line.

Remember, rider, owner and trainer must all be members for points to accrue.

The BCHJA executive looks forward to having you join us for the upcoming show season!

Check the BCHJA website for membership details, show calendar and more: www.bchja.com

www.bchja.com | 25232 - 80th Avenue, Langley, BC V1M 3M9 | Fax: 604-882-0154

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS April’s Tack Boutique............................................................... 11 Ashby, Karen & Christina.......................................................... 40 Bates Tack Shop...................................................................... 25 Biomedica................................................................................. 3 Cloverdale Pharmasave............................................................ 19 Country Mfg............................................................................. 27 Del Mar National....................................................................... 2 Dewson, Cheryl........................................................................ 39 Dexter Associates............................................................... 39, 40 The Dog & Pony Shop................................................................. 8 Elevate Equestrian................................................................... 21 G’s Formula............................................................................. 21 Integrated Bio Systems............................................................ 23 McGill, Lesley........................................................................... 10 McIntyre, Sidonia..................................................................... 25 Nexus Dressage....................................................................... 19 Plough Equine Veterinary Services............................................ 18 Schleese.................................................................................. 48 Tom Mayes Integrated Equine Therapies.................................. 26 Ulterra Equestrian Ltd.............................................................. 15 Woodguard Canada.................................................................. 22 Wrayton Transport...................................................................... 8

Discipline Reports continued from page 44 prove on their first round freestyle, to score an impressive 8,629 in the second round to finish in second on 8,385. Drewell equalled his Salzburg performance and pushed Clement Taillez (8,309) into third.

Last year’s runner-up Kristina Boe (GER) got her FEI World Cup Vaulting campaign off to a resounding start with her impressive Zombie routine that has captivated audiences throughout the season and secured her the silver medal at this year’s FEI World Championships.

Silvia Stopazzini (ITA) maintained pressure on Boe throughout the competition and continued to impress with her incredible strength and control. Finishing on 8,414 and with two second places under her belt she is definitely a title contender.

Italy’s Lorenzo Lupacchini and Silvia Stopazzini continue to show their meteoric progression, taking their second win of the series and improving on the score they produced in Salzburg by an incredible 0.6.

Newsletter | February 2017 Jump Alberta Society is a grassroots not-for-profit charitable Alberta corporation.

For membership information, contact: JUMP ALBERTA | 197, 132-250 Shawville Blvd. S.E., Calgary, AB T2Y 2Z7, jumpalberta@gmail.com

2017 MEMBERSHIP UPDATE! Most exciting news for Jump Alberta members!!

Your Jump Alberta membership can now be renewed through the Alberta Equestrian Federation website in conjunction with your renewal of your AEF membership.

Simply follow the membership renewal link and you will be given the option to choose renewal for the 2017 show season.

Jump Alberta membership will be listed JA2017 as an add on.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Jump Alberta Casino Fundraiser - Date to be announced Jump Alberta Symposium - November 17-19 Make sure you visit the website for special programs and bursary opportunities!

Thank You JUMP CANADA for your support with our programs For more info & forms, visit www.JumpAlberta.com | jumpalberta@gmail.com 46

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BCLM Pony Club News for February 2017 canadianponyclub.org | bclm.ponyclub.ca

July 1 marks Canada Day, a day of celebration for our nation. This year it will be even more meaningful, for in addition to being our 150th birthday, July 1 also marks the start of a 17 day adventure for our International Mounted Games Exchange competitors. Our 20 international pony club members, hailing from the UK, Australia, US, and Canada, will be gathering for the adventure of a lifetime, culminating in a day of competition between the international teams.

A whirlwind tour of amazing experiences only British Columbia can offer is in store for our international competitors. On their first day of the tour, they will enjoy a fireworks dinner cruise in English Bay, enjoying dinner followed by awe inspiring Canada Day fireworks. The very next day it will be off to world class Thunderbird Show Park for a tour and to settle in to watch the International Show. Over the next week our teams will spend time exploring Vancouver, touring Stanley Park on bike, taking a trip to Granville Island to take in West Coast sights, sounds, and flavours, and then the ultimate challenge: The Grouse Grind.

A ferry ride later, our teams will be visiting Vancouver Island for a few days, discovering all that the Island has to offer, as well as potentially participating in an exhibition game day showcasing all of the Prince Philip Games competitions that Canadian Pony Club is famous for.

Once back on the Mainland, the teams will be in for a treat with a visit up to Whistler Village for a few days, where zip lining and gondola rides in our gorgeous West Coast mountains will create some amazing memories. After a white water rafting trip, our competitors will travel to the Surrey and Langley areas to meet with their billet families, and they will be treated to Beach Day at Crescent Beach, where they will enjoy paddle boats and stand up kayaking and fun in the surf and sand.

Then it will be time for our International Mounted Games Event itself, and all will gather at Campbell Valley Park in Langley on Saturday, July 16th, to see the best of the best that each of these four countries has to offer, compete in Prince Philip Games on ponies provided by our BCLM region. Games such as Bending Poles, Tack Shop, Bursting Balloons, Hurdles, Two Flag, and Wizard’s Castle, among many others, will be the highlight of this international PPG event.

This event promises to be full of thrills and excitement, and we invite the general public to come early and stay late to watch this CPC international event; seating will be provided for spectators, or bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the sunshine and the show!

For information, contact Tracy Carver | 778-999-7400 | bclmponyclub@gmail.com www.gaitpost.com

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Obrigado 48

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