BC Equine Lifestyles Magazine Spring/Summer 2021

The Official Member Magazine of Horse Council BC

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle

SPRING/SUMMER 2021 www.hcbc.ca

The Standardbred: A Horse of Many Talents An Introduction to working equitation The BC Summer Games: A Path to a Bright Future PM 40021647

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In This Issue

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle Spring/Summer 2021 is published biannually by HORSE COUNCIL BC 27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 T: 604-856-4304 | F: 604-856-4302 Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055 www.hcbc.ca

HORSE COUNCIL BC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE KAREN SWANTJE President 604-897-4556

TRACY CARVER Officer in General 778-999-7400

SHARON PICKTHORNE Secretary/Treasurer 250-337-1818

LYNDA ATKINSON

SUSAN THOMPSON Officer of Education

604-943-8155

4

President’s Message

NEWS 6 6 7 8

On the Cover: Casino Warrior, aka Jack photo courtesy of Kristy Wilson

Membership News HCBC Awards CapriCMW An Introduction to Working Equitation

Officer Specializing in Industry and Agriculture

250-747-3700

GORD FRAZER

Officer Specializing in Busines Growth and Development

TERRE O’BRENNAN

Officer Specializing in Recreation

604-940-6958

STAFF

LISA LAYCOCK Executive Director administration@hcbc.ca ext.1008 KELLY COUGHLIN Senior Program Director Manager, Industry & Agriculture industry@hcbc.ca ext.1006

SANDY UNDERWOOD Sport & Community Development development@hcbc.ca ext. 1010 Competition Manager Competition@hcbc.ca ext. 1005

WENDY SEWELL Manager, Coaching & Education coaching@hcbc.ca ext.1004

JOCELYN ADAMS Marketing & Communications Coordinator communication@hcbc.ca ext.1003

SARAH ALLISON Recreation Coordinator recreation@hcbc.ca ext.1009

LYNN WALLDEN Finance & Grants finance@hcbc.ca ext. 1007

LYNDA ECKSTEIN Membership Coordinator membership@hcbc.ca ext. 1002

RITA MORENCY Reception/General Inquiries info@hcbc.ca ext. 1000

FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT COMMUNICATION@HCBC.CA. All material is copyright 2020.

All photographs that depict riders without helmets were taken in competition settings where helmets are not traditionally worn and all riders are over the age of 18. HCBC supports the wearing of approved helmets in all equestrian activity. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the idea or opinions of HCBC. BC’s Equine Lifestyles reserves the right to accept, and/or edit material submitted for publication. HCBC makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a results of the information contained in BC’s Equine Lifestyles, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of HCBC. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste and length. For reprint information please contact communication@ hcbc.ca.

UPCOMING PUBLICATION DATES Fall/Winter 2021 | October 2021 Spring/Summer 2022 | April 2022 Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture

TRAILS & RECREATION 14 what3words: Giving piece of Mind to Equestrians

SPOTLIGHT 10 The Standardbred: A Horse of Many Talents

COACHES CORNER 12 BC Summer Games Coaching

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE 16 Online Leaning Program for Equine Code of Practice Updated

COMPETITION 18 The BC Summer Games: A Path to a Bright Future

www.hcbc.ca | 3

President’s Message

With Easter now in the rear-view mirror, and the weather improving, we are all keen to “get out there”. You don’t need me to tell you that there are significant restrictions currently in effect that govern our conduct. It was only last week that the Provincial Government and the Health Authority banned all indoor dining at restaurants, and further restricted group activities.

At this time, neither Equestrian Canada or Horse Council BC are allowed to sanction any events. Please be clear that is not a decision over which we have any control. It is frustrating to hear of the Florida and California circuit, amongst others, running events, but the US reality relating to vaccine availability and roll-out is different than the Canadian roll-out, and individual states have the authority, as do our provinces, to determine what they deem to be appropriate levels of activity. At this time, the closure of the Canada/US border remains in effect, and BC residents are being asked not to travel.

Please check the HCBC website, as well as email updates where all news relating to return to sport is kept updated. The website also provides up to date information about all things that affect our lives, and those of our equines; such as updates on the Equine Herpesvirus breakouts in the US and Europe, as well as providing advice on how to protect our horse or herd.

On a more positive note, it is good to hear that many activities are carrying on, with a maximum outdoor group size of 10, and following COVID protocols. Lessons and some clinics continue, and so many individuals and groups have been creative in making use of virtual meetings to continue learning and training. Horse Council’s March Equine Education Madness was an example of how well this can work. Many thanks to Horse Council staff for arranging and coordinating this very popular series.

As the weather allows us to get out on the trails, and get to the trails, the safety issues around riding on our roads and multi-use trails come to the fore. This applies province wide, and HCBC is actively working with regional and municipal governments, and all stake holders, to educate them about the specific challenges equestrians face. We can all do our bit, but please share “how to’s” with runners or bikers, such as asking them to speak as they approach, in non-aggressive ways. As I ride a thoroughbred, who can do a great imitation of a whirling dervish when a silent runner “sneaks” up from behind, I know that can be a challenge! Updates on safety and trail developments are regularly part of the HCBC monthly newsletter.

Recently there were zoom meetings with HCBC’s Regional Directors, and Affiliate Directors, chaired by Gord Frazer, one of our Directors. The information shared was very useful, with many areas of common concern being raised. We look forward to making these meetings a more regular event, and receiving ongoing and interactive feedback from all regions on progress in addressing issues raised.

4 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

The 2020 Annual Report will be available online in May. Please do take the time to look it over. Horse Council remains in a healthy position to face the future, with strong membership uptake, and a strong financial position. We know already that some funding that we have relied on will either be no longer available, or will be substantially reduced. Going forward, we will need find new and creative ways to serve our members, and look to attract new members. If you possess the interest, and have skills that will be useful, please make sure that we know who you are. The monthly enewsletter, the website, and the occasional eblast will let you know when we are looking for volunteers to step forward to serve on committees, or to allow their names to be put forward for a Director position. Horse Council is made stronger when we have the active involvement of members, who are interested in seeing the continued growth of HCBC, and share its values.

The Governance Committee has been undertaking a review and update of HCBC’s governance documents. Best practices suggest that this should be done regularly, to identify any weaknesses in these “living documents”. We have also sought professional help to assist in this process, and to provide Board training. The importance of good governance to an organization cannot be overstated. As a result of this review, there will be some proposed changes to be voted on by HCBC members at the next AGM. Information about the date, and details of proposed changes to be voted on will be made available.

Many of you will be aware that Equestrian Canada has a new CEO – Meg Krueger. Meg previously served as the President of the Board of Directors, before assuming this operational role. She is a gifted communicator, and we are hopeful that progress can be made on a number of contentious issues that affect most, if not all of the Provincial/Territorial Sports Organizations (PTSOs). These include but are not limited to: Coach Licensing, Event Sanctioning, and the use of EC recognized Officials at provincially sanctioned shows. Stay tuned to HCBC newsletters for information updates.

It is a great pleasure for me to work with the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee – a large and diverse group of people willing to get involved to see that equestrian activity in this province can be enjoyed by so many. Without Horse Council’s remarkable staff, and Executive Director, Lisa Laycock, none of the too many to count activities and programs that HCBC offers would be possible. Thank you to each of you!

I wish you all “happy trails”, and that you and your families and communities remain healthy, and able to enjoy spring and summer in what I believe to be one of the most wonderful places in the world to live.

NEWS

THAT’S A WRAP! MARCH

EQUINE EDUCATION MADNESS Thank you to everyone who attended our first March Madness Equine Education Series Our “rock star” line up of speakers did not disappoint! It was fantastic to see how engaged and interested our BC Equine Community was with this program. Every session was sold out.

Every Monday evening at 7:00pm for the month of March, HCBC was happy to provide 5 excellent virtual presentations given by industry experts to everyone in the comfort of their own homes.

There was wonderful discussion and so many great questions asked. There was so much engagement, we did run over with a few of the sessions (our first session went over 2 hours) so if our speaker did not get a chance to answer your specific question, not to worry, all questions have been recorded and sent to the respective speaker for an answer. All attendees will be receiving an email with an attachment that will include, all of the questions and answers from each presentation.

The Equestrian Canada Learn to Ride/Drive Programs are self paced and student/coach led. They include options for English, Western and Driving.

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Learn both riding/ driving skills as well as horsemanship

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Rider level achievements can be used for High School Credits and becoming an EC Certified Coach

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Set up of the date, time and location of exams is done by the coach/student, so the program is very flexible

More information at hcbc.ca under Programs & Education

HCBC would like to thank Lesley McGill “The Saddle Doctor”, Dr James Carmalt, Dr Julia Montgomery, Dr Christine Fuchs and the Western Canadian Farrier Association for their informative presentations.

A very special thanks to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for their continued support of Horse Council BC’s educational programs.

As the saying goes: A horse doesn’t care how much you know until he knows how much you care.

equestrian canada learn to ride/Drive program

www.hcbc.ca | 5

NEWS

MEMBERSHIP NEWS It’s that time of the year again. We will be sending out membership renewal postcards. There are a variety of ways to renew, if you are not a current member. You can print the form from our website www.hcbc.ca and send it in with a cheque or money order or renew online. Another option is to call the office and renew over the phone. The office staff will be happy to help you. You can also come into the office and renew with a debit card, credit card, cash or cheque.

For the purpose of social distancing only 4 people are permitted in the reception area and masks are mandatory.

At the end of the form there is an option for auto renewal to make renewals seamless. Just click on the auto renewal box and complete your payment. Next Fall 2 notices will be sent out before the auto-renewal takes effect. This will give you the opportunity to opt out or change information.

Watch for emails coming to you from info@horsereg.com This is our database email address and often goes into members

junk/spam mail box. Conditions of membership and Consent forms for minor children will be sent via email immediately for signatures. Once they are signed (they automatically return to our system) your cards will be sent by the system. Emails from info@horsereg.com are not scams, but you can always call the office to verify.

With the digital membership card, you will always have your membership card in your phone and every year that you are a current member, you can download the card to make sure that you always have it with you. We have the options available for both Android and Apple.

Our bookstore can be accessed from the website. Another option is to call us or come in and browse for the titles you like.

If you have any feedback or questions, please email membership@hcbc.ca.

2020 hcbc award Winners Congratulations to the worthy recipients of the Horse Council BC’s 2020 Awards! Each award winner will receive their award at an event of their own choosing throughout 2021. We received many outstanding nominations this year, so thank you to all who nominated someone and congratulations to our winners.

Coach of the Year – Jodie Bater Sherman Olson Lifetime Achievement Award – Frances Teer Horse Council BC’s annual awards serve to honour outstanding achievement within BC’s equestrian community. These awards acknowledge those who have stood out from the crowd over the past year and who have made a positive impact on the community as a whole. Each award recipient was nominated by two or more other Horse Council BC members.

Nomination forms and more information can be found at hcbc.ca > about > HCBC Awards 6 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

NEWS

The cost of veterinarian care & insurance for your horse Written by Mike King, Partner CapriCMW Insurance

policies.

We hope that you are among the lucky ones who have never had a horse colic, or come in from the field three legged lame, or cut himself on (something?) or suffered the consequences of over training.

To keep insurance at an affordable cost, insurers and clients necessarily rely on a partnership built on trust to share the exposures surrounding the health and wellbeing of the horse.

If your horse has ever suffered from any of these or other unexpected health issues, then you know firsthand that the complexity of veterinarian care for horses (and the cost) is increasing at an impressive pace.

The practitioners who visit our barns have many new diagnostic tools which often make it easier to diagnose a lameness or medical issue. The vet may appear with digital imaging devices, scopes, lasers, medications and tools that even a decade ago were simply not available to horse owners. It is probably an urban myth - but maybe not - I can get a standing MRI to diagnose a stubborn foot lameness for my horse and have it treated in a fraction of the time that it might take me to get the same procedure done for my own bad running knee at the local hospital.

With the above in mind, it is no surprise that there are higher costs associated with the progress we see in veterinarian medicine. As much as vets (in my life anyway) have always been very fair about charges for services provided, it is worth discussing the management and distribution of those costs between you as the horse owner and the industry who provide relief by way of specialized insurance products.

Before we get to real solutions, a quick review of some terms that are relevant to horse (medical) claims;

So, what can clients do to manage the investment they make in insurance? – More than you might think. a) Search for a credible source of coverage. Experience counts! b) Enhance your participation in the process of risk management by assuming a larger portion of responsibility.

This can be achieved by higher deductibles, coinsurance etc. c) Make certain the day-to-day management of the animal is undertaken by true professionals. A barn manager/trainer/coach who is well educated and is not afraid to have frank discussions with horse owners about nutrition, exercise, training, health management etc., is often the difference between a claims free client with the lowest cost of coverage available, and one who is constantly looking for ways to fix a broken horse.

In 2021, we are introducing exciting new features to our existing programs which will enable our clients to more fully participate in the risk management of their horse. That participation will mean significant changes to available products and perhaps lower the cost of coverage. Together with owners, trainers, coaches, herd managers and other professionals, we are turning the page on how our clients work with us. The time has come for the educated and dedicated horse owner to truly benefit from a progressive and informed approach. Stay tuned.

1) Limit- The most the insurer will pay in any one covered loss / any one term. These limits are under pressure to rise as the expenses incurred are also on the rise.

2) Deductible – The amount you pay (first) in a covered loss with the balance paid by the insurer – up to the policy limit.

3) Coinsurance- The percentage paid by you in each covered loss (possibly in addition to an annual single deductible).

Example - A 20% co insurance clause means that you will only pay 20% of the total amount, with the insurer paying 80%.

Coinsurance is very common in small animal health insurance www.hcbc.ca | 7

NEWS NEWS

AN INTRODUCTION TO WORKING EQUITATION Submitted by: JULIE ALONZO & CATHY MACDONALD Working Equitation, a relative newcomer to the equestrian sports landscape, combines the precision of Dressage, the partnership of trail classes, and the adrenaline rush of timed events, with cattle handling, reminiscent of team penning, added to the mix at some team events.

The sport tests the horse and rider’s partnership and ability to maneuver obstacles. There are seven levels of Working Equitation, Introductory, Novice A, Novice B, Intermediate A, Intermediate B, Advanced and Masters.

Working Equitation is not just fun, it’s also a way to extend the partnership between the horse and rider, as the versatility required helps encourage continued development and greater horsemanship overtime. This sport is welcoming to all riding styles.

The discipline of Working Equitation (WE) became a competitive sport in 1996 after being developed by four countries: Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France. In 2004, the world Association for Working Equitation was established to govern the sport internationally, however each country has its own set of rules to govern domestic competitions. In Canada the organization was established in 2017 and proudly hosted the largest international Working Equitation camp and show in Alberta in 2019. With over 130 participants from New Zealand, Australia, the US and Canada, at all levels competed and enjoyed the comradery of fellow participants and enjoyed learning with their horses for an entire week.

8 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

There are four trials in Working Equitation. In the Dressage Trial, the movements are designed to illustrate the progressively greater expectations as horses and riders move from rudimentary riding skills to those expected of the most advanced. For example: the advanced level ratchets up the difficulty by requiring the same advanced movements be completed with only one hand on the reins, regardless of the type of bit and bridle used. The second trial, Ease of Handling, and the expectations are carried over from the Dressage Trial, comprising of a minimum number of obstacles that must be completed and are judged based on the performance of the horse and rider. The third trial is the Speed Trial, this is a timed test of a horse and rider’s ability to navigate obstacles with accuracy as quickly as possible in the correct order. The fourth trial is the Cattle Trial, (timed test), and is optional, during which horses and riders must work as a team with other combinations to sort and pen a cow. This trial is not always available in all countries or competition and is not offered at the Introductory Levels.

Many people just starting out in the sport are nervous about adding the element of speed. Pedro Torres, many times world champion in the sport offers some great advice to ensure that the introduction of the Speed trial doesn’t harm the overall training of the horse. “It is important to maintain the quality and smoothness with which you perform the obstacles. Do not rush your horse through the obstacles and risk the introduction of tension”, Torres advised.

In Canada the sport is growing in leaps and bounds. In the province of British Columbia there are four Chapters: North Cariboo, West Coast, Vancouver Island and Thompson Okanagan and we boast almost half of the members in Canada. We would welcome anyone interesting in learning more about our sport and coming out and participating in our clinics which are posted on the Working Equitation Canada web page www.workingeq.ca; we also have a Facebook page, Working Equitation BC for people who live in BC and want to keep informed on planned activities in the province. In order to become a Working Equitation Canada (WECan) member, all members must belong to their respective Provincial/Territorial Sport Horse organization and therefore we are all members of HCBC. Darcy Henkel & Cathy MacDonald Working Equitation Canada BC Directors Email: bc@workingeq.ca

www.hcbc.ca | 9

Casino Warrior, aka Jack photo courtesy of Kristy Wilson

SPOTLIGHT

The Standardbred, a horse of many talents Submitted by Harness racing bc society

“In the steady gaze of the horse shines a silent eloquence that speaks of love and loyalty, strength and courage. It is the window that reveals to us how willing is his spirit, how generous his heart.” – The Standardbred, what can I say, Shakespeare might have said it best: “When I bestride him, I soar, I am a hawk: he trots the air; the earth sings when he touches it; the basest horn of his hoof is more musical than the pipe of Hermes.”

Casino Warrior, also known as Jack is such a good example of that willing spirit, generous heart. He started his career on the racetrack, racing 25 times, winning once, coming second twice and third once. His best time was 2:02 for the mile. It was decided at that point that he really wasn’t cut out to be a racehorse. For those who don’t know, the most successful standardbred pacers will do a mile in 1:50, to 1:55, with the world record currently being 1:46 by a horse called Always B Miki.

Casino Warrior’s owners thoughtfully placed him at Greener Pastures, the second life organization for standardbreds in British Columbia. He was purchased by a breeder from them and eventually became the horse owned by the Huntsman, of the Fraser Valley Hounds. The Fraser Valley Hounds go out every Saturday from September through to April to hunt.

Instead of the wily fox, the hounds hunt a scented drag line that is laid just before the hunt. The huntsman and riders follow the hounds through some of the most beautiful territory in BC that 10 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

generous land owners allow the club to use.

Jack is not phased by all of the goings on, and is absolutely loved by his rider and all the fox hunters in the hunt, has had his picture in the Horse Council BC coloring book, and is quite a famous fellow. If you are interested in finding out more about this exciting sport go to fraservalleyhunt.com

Standardbred horses in British Columbia compete not only at the racetrack, but also, in many other sports including fox hunting, jumping, English and Western showing, games and Combined driving.

Another important component for Standardbreds is the breeding of the horses. Harness Racing BC (HRBC) has a financial incentive program for breeders who are members of HRBC and register their mares with the association. HRBC also organizes a yearling sale every year to market the yearlings for breeders and potential trainers and owners.

Breeding standardbreds is a rewarding process. Mares can be bred naturally or by artificial insemination, meaning that as a breeder you have access to world class stallions around the globe. Olds College, in Olds Alberta, also stands a number of standardbred stallions and runs a training workshop every year to train breeders and technicians in the use of artificial insemination in horses.

The standardbred horse was developed in the US in the 19th century and used primarily for harness racing. The foundation sire of the breed was a thoroughbred, Messenger, who was imported to the United States from England in 1788. His offspring were bred with Morgans and other breeds to produce speedy trotters and pacers.

The name standardbred comes from a breed characteristic, that they could perform up to a set standard before being eligible for inclusion in the stud books. Standardbreds, on the racetrack either trot or pace, however some horses are capable of racing at either gait. They vary in conformation because speed is considered more important than beauty.

Most standardbreds are either brown, bay or black. However some carry the grey gene, and there are a few horses that carry the allele for spotted and are pintos. They are registered through Standardbred Canada, and have either a freeze brand tattoo at the crest of their necks or now have a chip inserted in the nuchal ligament at registration. This makes Standardbreds, their parentage and racing history easily traceable.

Greener Pastures is the organization that is supported by both HRBC and Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, (Elements Casino) to assist in placing horses after their racehorse career is over. It is run by a volunteer staff and board, and does a wonderful job finding good homes for standardbreds. The organization was founded in 2003, and its goal is to find long term forever homes for these wonderful retired racehorses.

They accomplish this by giving them a solid foundation in their new career and placing them into homes that are suitable for them as they begin their life with their new families.

There are great horses in the standardbred breed. For those of us who own, breed, ride and drive standardbreds, we consider ourselves so fortunate to be able to work with these amazing horses. There may be one in your future, but believe me when I say, be careful, because one is often not enough.

The easy-going nature of most standardbreds allow owners to both train and race these horses. It also allows owners in their second life to train and compete in speed events, jumping, distance riding, competitive carriage and pleasure driving. You haven’t really experienced the thrill of driving until you have driven a pair in a competitive driving marathon.

Standardbreds race at Fraser Downs/Element Casino, Cloverdale here in British Columbia, with a sixty-to-seventy-day race schedule. On the grounds of Fraser Downs there may be 200 or more horses stabled at any one time. The horses and races can be viewed either by entering the Elements Casino or going on the website elementscasinosurrey.com

www.hcbc.ca | 11

COACHES CORNER

The Road to Prince George…

BC Summer Games Coaching The 2022 BC Summer Games will be held July 21 to 24th, at the Prince George Fairgrounds. Due to the COVID virus, the 2020 Games were cancelled.

Each Zone team will have one head coach and one assistant coach assigned to the team. The coaches are Equestrian Canada certified, and will be working with the teams throughout the games. For the 2022 Games, The BC Games society has asked each Sport to assign one Head Coach and one Assistant coach to each Zone team Throughout the years that Equestrian has been a part of the Summer Games we have relied on the expertise of volunteer coaches to take on the tasks of helping the athletes prepare and compete at the games. Our athletes receive guidance from coaches who specialize in Jump, Dressage, Vaulting and Para Dressage. After the games, the athletes always leave with great memories, new skills and high praise for the coaches that worked with them. The experience of competing as a team, in a multi sport games is special and can either be the experience of a lifetime or preparation for even bigger games experiences to come.

Our Summer Games coaches are special. We ask them to coach, organize, schedule, chaperone and take care of all sorts of details while they are at the games. We ask them to be trained in SafeSport, watch over their athletes, have their first aid, and screening. Some coaches will also sleep in the dorms with their teams. They take part in the opening ceremonies as well as the closing ceremonies making sure that their Zone team is ready, together and participating in all of the events that are part of the Games.

What qualities does a coach need to be a part of the games?

First, they need enthusiasm and be able work well with athletes who may be competing in a large venue for the first time. They need to be able to organize and schedule the times for the riders to practice, warm up and compete. The coaches will celebrate with their teams, and sometimes dry a few tears. The coach will also be able to dedicate the full 4 days to being at the venue with their teams. It is very important that the coach be able to supervise and chaperone the team of athletes when they are not at the competition grounds. They must be EC certified, the Head Coaches should be Competition Coach Specialists and the assistant coaches can be Competition Coaches.

12 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

What is the reward for coaching at the BC Summer Games?

Above all is the gratitude from HCBC. Without our coaches, there would be no place in the Games for Equestrian. The Athletes are excited to work with an expert coach at the games and enjoy learning from them. Even after several years, the athletes still talk enthusiastically about the coaches that helped them. Assistant coaches’ mentor with the Head Coaches, providing them a learning experience that they can use to work towards improving their coaching experience or working up to Specialist certification. We offer at least one clinic opportunity at the games that the coaches and athletes will benefit from. The experience of coaching at a multi sport games is a useful tool for the coach if they are looking at becoming a Chef d’Equipe or coach at a National games or even international games experience. Coaches can feel pride at helping the athlete’s development towards a higher level of competition. Of course we also give Pd points to all coaches who volunteer as official coaches.

We have had a core group of coaches who have come back year after year to volunteer as Summer Games Head coaches. Their constant support is the backbone of the Games experience. However, we always need more coaches, specifically now that we are asked to bring assistant coaches to work along with the Head Coaches. If you would like to know more about being a Summer Games coach please contact Wendy at coaching@hcbc.ca.

NEW for 2021, All coaches who are testing the English, Drive or Western rider levels must hold Licensed Coach Status when they test the rider. As always, they must also be EC Certified, Current and trained to administer the exam. Be sure to confirm that your testing coach holds EC Licensed Coach status before they administer the exams.

Coach and Instructor Candidates, EC now requires that all Instructor or Coach candidates must have purchased Registered Coach Status before they attend an evaluation. To purchase Registered Coach status go to www.equestrian. ca and enter the MyEC portal.

Are you a BC Equestrian or Para Equestrian athlete between the ages of 12 and 18? Do you compete in Dressage, Para-Dressage, Eventing, Jumping or Vaulting?

The 2022 BC Summer Games will take place in Prince George BC, qualifying starts January 1 2021!

Why not get in the game?

The BC Winter and BC Summer Games are British Columbia’s biennial celebration of sport and community.

The purpose of the BC Games is “To provide an opportunity for the development of athletes, coaches, and officials in preparation for higher levels of competition in a multi-sport event which promotes interest and participation in sport, sporting activities, individual achievement and community development.”

The BC Winter and BC Summer Games are a milestone event that people count as an experience of a lifetime where memories, friendships, spirit, and pride are abundant.

www.hcbc.ca | 13

TRAILS & RECREATION

What3Words Giving Peace of Mind to Equestrians Services (BCEHS) and with police and fire being organized by region, city or municipality. BCEHS is currently the largest emergency response unit in BC and it has been released that they have implemented the what3words app. In regards to police and fire rescue services the following detachments are using what3words: North Vancouver RCMP, Surrey Regional Fire Dispatch and Squamish Search and Rescue. Province wide coverage would be great to achieve and we are happy to already hear about one success story in BC.

Have you heard of what3words? What3words is an app that has divided the globe into 57 trillion 3 metre squares with every square being given a unique combination of three words.

These three words make up a specific what3words address and pinpoints a specific location. For an example the words /// sooner.cherishes.incoherent will take you to one of our newest BC Equestrian Trails Fund projects, the Nesakwatch bridge replacement on the Trans Canada Trail. Not only can this app lead you to exciting new trail features; it can help with meeting up with friends for a trail ride or by helping you tell emergency responders your exact location.

The what3words app was launched globally in 2013 and has proven successful with equestrians in the UK. The UK has 80% of their emergency responders using the app and started a campaign in 2020 to promote the app using the #knowexactlywhere. One of the first documented rescues was for a horse named Merlyn in the UK who had fallen into a 1.5 metre ditch and couldn’t get out on his own. His owner called the emergency services and within 15 minutes help arrived knowing his exact location. Merlyn was removed from the ditch by the fire department and he was able to make a full recovery.

The app has already been giving equestrians a greater peace of mind and Horse Council BC is looking forward to how it will benefit riders in BC. In the summer of 2020, 16 Canadian Emergency response units integrated the what3words app into their services. The BC emergency response units each have their own dispatch services with ambulance being under BC Emergency Health 14 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

The first recorded use of the what3words app in an emergency response took place on the North Shore mountains when a group of hikers became lost. Sergeant Peter DeVries of the North Vancouver RCMP recounts how emergency services rescued the hikers using what3words. “The dispatcher sent the hiker a text message containing a link. The hiker clicked the link and read out the three words displayed, and the dispatcher was then able to pinpoint their location to within a 3 metre square.

That allowed rescuers to quickly get to them and provide help.”

Of course, technology can only serve us if the batteries are charged on our cell phone and we are in cell range. “Don’t depend on your phone to save your life,” Sergeant DeVries stresses. “You need your ten essentials, you have to tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back, you have to know the risks you’re facing and properly prepare.”

If you’re looking for tips on how to prepare for the outdoors take a minute to visit the website adventuresmart.ca. If you are frequently going into the backcountry out of cell phone range consider investing in a satellite phone. Having a satellite phone would allow you to communicate the what3words address, out of cell range, as the what3words app works offline. Also, if you enjoy using Avenza maps what3words has been integrated into their software. You can find a what3words address in Avenza by tapping on the GPS coordinates and scrolling down to the bottom of the listed items. Being equipped for an outdoor adventure is important and hopefully bringing awareness to the what3words app will help all of us be prepared in an emergency.

There is no set timeline for having the what3words app implemented province wide in regards to all emergency services. If you are interested in advocating for what3words in your area you can contact your local police detachment or Fire hall to suggest implementing the what3words app into their dispatch services. Spread the word to your local emergency services and share with friends! Add the what3words app to your toolbox as an additional safety measure and have fun exploring BC with your equine partner.

DO YOU LOVE HORSES? Join Alice the Pony’s FREE Pony Tails Kids Club.

Alice will send you fun facts, activities and info to help you learn all about the fantastic world of horses and ponies.

www.hcbc.ca | 15

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

Online Learning Program for Equine Code of Practice Updated New transport regulations drive changes to online awareness and education training series

March 23, 2021, Medicine Hat - The Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada (HWAC) today launched an updated version of our online training program for equine owners, caregivers, industry professionals, and general horse enthusiasts. Released with the goal of keeping horses safe and healthy in April 2020, the free educational series is structured around the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines.

“The training provides a timely refresher about important management and welfare practices,” says HWAC project coordinator Mikki Shatosky. “We’ve designed it to be convenient but also to follow the distinct sections of the Code including appropriate care, housing, feed, water, health management, transportation, as well as change of career and end of life. It’s really a great resource for industry but is also being used by animal welfare inspectors and livestock investigators.”

While the online, self-paced training has been available for a year, HWAC recently updated the transportation section to reflect recent regulation changes.

“Safe and humane transport of animals was actually one of the main motivators for the establishment of HWAC more than a decade ago, so this is an area that is extremely close to our heart,” explains Shatosky. “These new federal regulations provide clarity around the best practices for loading, transport and unloading of equines in Canada.”

Since its inception, HWAC has worked diligently to raise awareness and provide industry endorsed information, guidance and practical tools. In fact, in addition to the virtual training program, the group has developed a number of tailored assessment checklists to help equine owners, custodians, industry specialists, and professionals evaluate, improve, and manage the welfare of equine on their property and/or in their care.

The assessment checklists can be found at www.horsewelfare. ca/assessments and are customized for equine at public venues, boarding stables, on-farm, feedlots, racetracks and rescue facilities. Not only do the assessment checklists prompt owners to ask key questions, they also facilitate continuous improvement within the industry itself.

16 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

For more information about HWAC initiatives or to register for Code of Practice Training please visit www.horsewelfare.ca/ equine-code-training or e-mail design@declercq.ca.

ABOUT THE HORSE WELFARE ALLIANCE Established in 2008, the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada has a proven track record of working within the equine sector to educate and promote humane care, handling and welfare of equines throughout their lifetime. The Alliance includes provincial equine organizations, farm animal care groups and other segments of the animal agriculture industry.

The Equine Code of Practice Awareness and Education initiative is managed through the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada and funded partly through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriAssurance Program – a federal, provincial, territorial initiative.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Mikki Shatosky, Project Coordinator 403-870-8784 design@declerq.ca

Equine to benefit from new animal health emergency management resources The Animal Health Emergency Management (AHEM) project has been steadily growing a library of practical resources for livestock producers and industry staff since August 2016.

Over the course of this four-year, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada AgriAssurance funded project we have continued to develop commodity specific resources with the goal of increasing industry awareness, capacity, and confidence to address serious animal disease emergencies.

In addition to resource creation and learning opportunities, the AHEM project is also developing new protocols to support industry in their efforts to limit the introduction and spread of a serious animal health disease and to reduce broader, sectorwide risks.

For more information on the project or the growing suite of resources please visit https://animalhealth.ca/

Working in collaboration with Horse Council BC, provincial and federal governments, we are proud to release the inaugural producer Handbook for equine owners and custodians. This Handbook focuses on improving understanding, preparation and response to a serious animal disease outbreak in the equine sector.

Going forward, AHEM will be developing an industry association Plan for HCBC staff. This Plan will outline staff roles and responsibilities and provide specific guidance related to emergency events.

Throughout the project the AHEM team has also been focused on delivering meaningful and relevant learning opportunities for various commodities and industry stakeholders.

DO YOU HAVE AN EQUESTRIAN FOCUSED BUSINESS & ARE LOOKING FOR ADVERTISING OR PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES? EMAIL: COMMUNICATION@HCBC.CA for more information www.hcbc.ca | 17

COMPETITIONS

The BC Summer Games: A Path to a Bright Future!

The year was 2012, and sport venues across the Community of Surrey were alive with action preparing for the BC Summer Games. The Surrey 2012 BC Summer Games Board of Directors announced that over $140,000 in surplus legacy funds would be distributed to support youth sport development opportunities in Surrey. What began with a small group of dedicated community leaders when the Games were announced, grew to involve almost 3,000 Surrey residents over the course of 18 months. These amazing volunteers provided 2,300 young athletes with the opportunity of a lifetime. One of those young athletes was an aspiring young Equestrian from Prince George BC. BC Summer Games Equestrian Alumni Maeghan Forster reminisces with HCBC about her story and her journey to the 2012 BC Summer Games, and tells us what the Games experience meant to her and the impact it has had on her life.

The BC Summer Games: A Path to a Bright Future!

By Maeghan Forster If you are considering competing in the BC Summer Games in 2022, the first thing you should know is that it’s not just going to be a horse show but an opportunity to be part of an amazing experience that will help you develop skills for life. As riders, horse enthusiasts, and competitors many of us will experience a plethora of horse shows in our lives. We start at the Pony Club, 4-H, or local riding club shows on our instructor’s lesson pony. Then somehow it progresses to a huge warmblood or an excitable off the track Thoroughbred (OTTB) that likes to toss you in the dirt at the medal shows in every province or state your horse trailer will take you. Every horse show is fun, and there are many fantastic experiences to be gained from them all. I have had the opportunity to participate in many horse shows and I can I can tell you that without a doubt the most memorable was the BC Summer Games 2012.

My start in horses began when I joined Spruce Ridge Pony Club when I was 6 years old. I grew up riding English, most notably hack and beginner hunter/jumper which progressed to dressage. My mom still has my workbooks where I wrote “huff” instead of “hoof” in 6-year-old printing. I started riding lessons at Ridge Country Farm on an experienced pony named Gem. Gem tolerated my endless enthusiasm and short legs that didn’t reach fully around her barrel in exchange for unlimited treats.

Gem is now semi retired with the Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association. Next it was onto a smart Shetland pony named Loretta who knew just how to reach grass when the opportunity presented itself but was kind enough to take my 18 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2021

serious interest in jumping over many a “walk over” cross rails.

I thought I jumped at least 10 feet most days and my coach at the time, Corea Anderson went along with it.

The promise my parents made was that if I stayed in Pony Club for 2 years, I could have a horse. I did one better and never left. Instead, I stayed in Pony Club for the rest of my life as a participant, instructor, volunteer and now I am the District Commissioner of my local Pony Club Branch. My determination paid off and at 9 years old I was gifted the most wonderful teacher, a little Welsh pony named Checo who helped me find my seat for all occasions which was in my favour when the pop machine at the local riding arena would clang pop into its tray for the next customer. (to Checo this was the starting gun and he was Secretariat at the Kentucky Derby) He taught me how to stick the ride, which came in handy when I moved onto Rio a OTTB who had the same theory of the starting gun at the trot canter transition. Now my family has 9 horses and a new equestrian facility where Checo is still the boss around the pastures and is teaching the next generation of pony clubbers their seat.

When I entered the Games, I was 17, and I had qualified for the Games by participating at our local shows. My partner for the journey was “Wolfman Jack” aka Wolfie. Wolfie is a wonderfully multitalented American Quarter Horse (AQHA) who was sired by notable Two Eyed Jackson. When the competition began it was unlike anything I had ever experienced – we were treated like world class equestrians.

There were celebrations of athletes from all disciplines in an opening ceremony, inspirational speakers, new friendships, delicious food, amazing entertainment and kind volunteers and coaches. Together, we forged friendships and made many memories, not unlike what I would expect it to be like to be on the Canada Team or Olympic Team, just a junior version of that.

The competition itself felt intense as you would expect with any high-stakes horse show, but generally it only lasted until early afternoon. Which for me was a relief – after I’d realized I studied the wrong dressage tests for months - while in the competition ring! But the strength it took for me to just “get over it” and ride a new test blindly with a caller in that very moment, prepared me for more than just a dressage test. The advice I received that day from Jessica Shields was “In dressage its not about the other riders scores, but trying to improve how you ride each time”. This advice at the Summer Games has stuck with me and I apply this to many areas of my life – how can I improve each time. This is why the BC Summer Games are important for young riders – like you! Not because I think that those attending will all win medals or ribbons. By the time you’re at that level of competition they no longer give out participation awards, they give out determination.

In 2017 my family purchased the equestrian facility where Wolfie was born. Owning an equestrian facility was my second biggest dream come true, but my first was to become a veterinarian. Luckily, within months of opening our equestrian facilities doors, I was blessed with an interview, and now I am finishing my 3rd year of the DVM program at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine and am set to graduate in 2022.

As many people know, the road to vet school is extremely challenging and very competitive, especially for B.C. students.

I applied three times before being accepted, completed an extra year of my BSc degree, and I had to work to bring my GPA high enough to get an interview spot. I wouldn’t have had the willpower to do those things if it wasn’t for my experiences with horses and lessons I learned along the way. Every life experience we have, good or bad, teaches us something, In university, it’s not about failing your first midterm everyone does that!

After riding the wrong dressage tests at the biggest competition of your life, a once-in-a-lifetime interview for your dream career doesn’t seem as impossible. For this reason, no matter what your goals in life are – consider competing in the BC Summer Games 2022. It isn’t just another horseshow, it’s an experience that teaches you how it feels to be a world class equestrian, and how to be the best athlete (and human being) you can be.

Good luck! Go out there and ride your horse - and thank those ponies and coaches for teaching you how to keep your heels down, eyes up and stick the ride!

Acknowledgements: I would like to give an incredible thank you to my four-legged team-mate Wolfman Jack (“Wolfie”) and his owners Cheryl Marsolais and Lawrence Marsolais. Without Wolfie I wouldn’t be where I am today. I would also like to thank my amazing coach - Susie Ramsay Palley, and my amazing family for supporting my dreams to become a successful equestrian and the journey to be a vet. I would also like to thank many more notable horses whom I owe my world to: Gem, Loretta, Possum, Rio, and Checo.

Read more on Maeghan’s serious injury and her journey to the Games in this 2012 feature article from the local newspaper ,The Prince George Citizen: https://www.princegeorgecitizen. com/sports/forster-tries-to-ride-into-2012-b-c-summergames-1.1028276

Looking for the perfect thing to keep the little horse person in your life busy & learning?

The Pony Tails Book of Coloring Fun & Horsey Facts is available NOW through the HCBC bookstore Do you know a horse crazy kid?

Horse Council BC’s Pony Tails Kids Club is free and open to kids of all ages!

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For more info on Pony Tails Kids Club or to order your copy of The Pony Tails Book of Coloring Fun & Horsey Facts visit www.hcbc.ca today!