BC's Equine Lifestyle Magazine Spring/Summer 2022

The Official Member Magazine of Horse Council BC

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle

SPRING/SUMMER 2022 www.hcbc.ca

Horses & Mules to the rescue!

Coaches & Biosecurity

55+ BC GAmes PM 40021647

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In This Issue

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle Spring/Summer 2022

4

NEWS

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

President’s Message

5 6 7

On the Cover: Princeton Ground Search and Rescue Society Mounted Team- Photo by: Jody Foster Photography

Membership News Governance Update Horses & Mules to the Rescue!

HORSE COUNCIL BC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE KAREN SWANTJE President

SHARON PICKTHORNE Secretary/Treasurer TERRE O’BRENNAN Officer Specializing in Recreation TRACY CARVER Officer in General

STAFF

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

LYNDA ATKINSON Officer Specializing in Industry and Agriculture GORD FRAZER Officer Specializing in Busines Growth and Development KELLY KENNEDY Officer in General LISA MANDER Officer in General 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

KAREN GODDARD 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 2021.

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 ideas or opinions of HCBC. BC’s Equine Lifestyle 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 result of the information contained in BC’s Equine Lifestyle, 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.

COACHING 8 Biosecurity and Coaches 12 Pony Tails Kid’s Club

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

COMPETITION

17 HCBC/EC Dressage Judges Clinic 18 55+ BC Games

announcements

19

2021 Award Winners & More!

14 Disaster Response 2021

TRAILS & RECREATION 16 Horse Play Program

UPCOMING PUBLICATION DATES Fall/Winter 2022 | October 2022 Spring/Summer 2023 | April 2023 Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture

www.hcbc.ca | 3

President’s Message

Spring – my favourite season! And though I can look out my office window and see an azalea bush in bloom, in truth, it is through a late hailstorm, which is currently turning the ground white!

from fuel through fertilizer, supply chain shortages, which will only be exacerbated by the war in Europe and the continued challenges presented by COVID, we all will be facing challenges going forward.

Throughout the province, “spring clean-up” is in full swing, with many hands pitching in to bring riding and driving trails back to useable condition, after a tough fall and winter (weather wise).

I am pleased to tell you that HCBC’s membership numbers have remained strong, and that we have a very healthy balance in our disaster relief fund. That said, we cannot yet fully anticipate what we will be facing.

Shows and in-person events are back and I wish all the competitors amongst us, in whatever discipline, a fun and successful show season!

The Board of Horse Council has been, and continues to be, unusually busy. Changes in the BC Societies Act, which applies to all of British Columbia’s not for profit organizations, new SafeSport guidelines, issued by viaSport, the provincial government’s appointed body to lead sport development for all Provincial Sport Organizations, of which we are one, have led to a thorough review of our Constitution or Purposes, and our bylaws. This review has been ably handled by HCBC’s governance committee. The committee is chaired by Joan Chess-Woolacott, a Director at Large, and consists of Lynda Atkinson, an Affiliate Director representing Harness Racing BC, and Officer specializing in Industry and Agriculture, and Catherine Davidson, a member of HCBC who has extensive experience in policy development with the provincial government. In addition, HCBC’s Executive Director, Craig Cherrett, and I sit on the committee in an ex officio capacity.

One of the next steps will be to involve all HCBC members who wish to provide input on the proposed changes. Please take the time to read the article in this edition by Joan Chess-Woolacott.

A good governance Board structure will ensure the health of the organization and ensure that our next 40 years are as successful as the last 40 have been.

Most of you will be aware that HCBC’s long serving Executive Director, Lisa Laycock, has retired.

Lisa started at HCBC as the bookkeeper and after some years in that role transitioned very successfully to the role of Executive Director. She remained in this role for 14 years, and led HCBC through some difficult challenges. She and her family have relocated to the interior, and she remains as busy as ever with new challenges. We all owe her a debt of gratitude and we wish her and her family well.

I do not have to tell any of you that 2022 promises to be a year of significant challenges. Aside from weather challenges, and corresponding bad hay crops, the rising cost of everything – 4 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

There are a number of new initiatives in the works from the staff, and more educational events on timely topics are on the way. I look forward to hearing your feedback on the proposed governance changes and developing more effective membership engagement – Horse Council BC is a member driven organization after all.

On behalf of staff and the Board of Directors, I would like to wish you all happy times with your special equines throughout the spring and summer.

Karen Swantje, HCBC President

NEWS

MEMBERSHIP NEWS Spring has sprung and the sun is starting to shine. Let’s get outside with our horses! If you aren’t a current Horse Council BC member, it’s never too late to join.

The policy is active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in the world. This policy provides liability protection regardless of the number of personal use horses you own.

The cost of membership is: Adult membership (anyone 19 years and older) is $62.00.

Youth membership (children 18 years and under) is $47.00 Family membership (minimum 3 people – 2 parents/guardians and their youth children residing at the same address) is $150.00.

30,000 Accidental Death or Dismemberment coverage.

If the member suffers from a catastrophic and permanent injury or death related to an incident where horses are involved.

The coverage is active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and covers the member anywhere in the world.

Horse Council BC changed database providers late last year so if you are having difficulty in renewing or logging in to your profile, please call the office and the staff are happy to help you.

HCBC membership automatically includes some insurance coverage. $5,000,000 Personal Liability Insurance.

This insurance protects you against lawsuits brought against you by a third party because a horse that you lease, use or own causes bodily injury or property damage to a third party.

If you need Additional Optional Insurance coverage, check out our website at www.hcbc.ca. The Optional Insurance is located under membership > membership benefits > Optional Insurance.

For more in-depth information on any of the automatic or optional insurance policies, please call CapriCMW Insurance at 1-800-670-1877 and ask for the Equine Department.

CapriCWM insurance is the official Insurance provider of Horse Council BC.

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

•

Learn both riding/driving skills as well as horsemanship

•

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

•

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

www.hcbc.ca | 5

NEWS

HCBC GOVERNANCE Update Last spring, the Governance Committee began reviewing HCBC’s Constitution, bylaws and policies. The Board approved retaining McLaughlin & Associates, a BC consulting business with expertise in governance and best practices for not-forprofit organizations, to support the Governance Committee in this work.

HCBC is incorporated under the BC Societies Act, and is considered a Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) by the provincial government.

The goals of the governance review are to: • Align with appropriate best governance practices and requirements for member-based not-for-profit organizations and PSO’s • Increase the effectiveness of our Board governance processes and structures on behalf of all members, and • Streamline and reduce costs of Board operations, and make better use of staff resources.

This important task was initiated for several reasons: • Increasing scrutiny: We need to be able to meet the ViaSport accreditation requirements for PSOs, forthcoming changes to the BC Societies Act, and criteria set by various provincial and federal grants and funding programs.

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Representative vs. Governance Board: Our current structure emphasizes regional and affiliate categories representing a geographic area or interest group. PSOs and other organizations have shifted away from this model to one where directors govern in the best interests of all members in all equine sectors and regions of the province.

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Very large Board: Our current bylaws allow up to 40 directors with Board meetings held twice per year, making it difficult to find nominees to stand for election, to make decisions, and to be responsive to quickly changing circumstances. It is not cost-effective and creates onerous administrative demands on staff.

•

Executive Committee: Our bylaws allow a large executive committee, which is no longer considered a best practice as it risks being perceived as a “board within a board”. As well, currently, Officers may be appointed to the Executive from among members rather than from among existing Directors already elected by HCBC members.

6 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

•

Lack of term limits for directors: Not having term limits removes flexibility in Board composition and renewal; term limits will soon be required by the BC Societies Act.

•

Member engagement: For decades, HCBC has relied on volunteer regional and affiliate directors as the primary conduit. With close to 25,000 members, communication can be done more efficiently and equitably by staff through a variety of media and channels.

Since the review process began, the Committee and consultants have been working with all the Directors - your representatives - seeking ideas and feedback at every step.

The first task was updating the Constitution Purposes to ensure that they reflect a changing world, while still holding true to HCBC’s original ‘reason for being’ when it was founded 40 years ago. Directors approved the proposed changes to the Constitution Purposes, and will bring a recommendation that members approve them to the next AGM. More recently, the Governance Committee and McLaughlin & Associates have been working on updating the bylaws. This work has included: • A survey of Directors re: potential changes to the bylaws on Board structure, with the opportunity for individual Director follow-up with McLaughlin & Associates; • An information and discussion session with all Directors on the survey results; • Information and discussion sessions with Regional Directors and with Affiliate Directors on potential changes to Board structure; and • A working session with all Directors on proposed changes to Board structure and related bylaws.

All of the above steps now bring us to you – HCBC’s 24,900 members. Under the BC Societies Act, changes to Constitution Purposes and bylaws must be approved by a majority vote, by the members at an Annual General Meeting or a special meeting. We are aiming to present the formal motions later this fall. This article is the first step in reaching out to you, to let you know about the work that is underway, and that we will be seeking your feedback in the coming months. Stay tuned!

If you have questions or comments, feel free to contact me at: joanchessrpp@gmail.com.

Joan

SPOTLIGHT

Horses & Mules to the Rescue!

Princeton Ground Search and Rescue has added four-legged comrades to the team!

The PGSAR Mounted Team, currently the only one in British Columbia, is ready and capable.

Mounted members must first be fully GSAR certified to apply for the Mounted Team, and be able to demonstrate exceptional control of their horses. Over 60 specific tasks,mounted and unmounted, must be mastered. Riders need their equine partners to be confident and strong, tolerate traffic, crowds, sirens, flashing lights, and much more. They need to be able to ‘stop on a dime,’ or step carefully around potential evidence.

After many hours of intensive practice, both individually and as a team, five GSAR members with their seven equines, including their first mule, make up the initial Mounted Team: Anita Kleinschrot, Debbie Powell, Mandy Blais, Margot Galozo, and Marion Weisskopff. They look forward to being able to add new members soon!

After over two years of preparation and training, spearheaded

by PGSAR President/Manager Paul Fyfe, a team of certified equines and riders are ready to expand their search abilities into various terrains. Princeton’s SAR team adds this new tool to their repertoire, which already includes ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, snowshoes, backcountry skis, swift water/ice rescue rafts, as well as medical gear.

Beginning in 2018, Paul initiated laying the groundwork necessary to start building a Mounted Search Team. In 2020, PGSAR was excited to welcome respected trainer, Marion Weisskopff, of MW Sport Horses, into their search and rescue family. The Mounted Team had an ideal leader and certifier.

The team worked hard to establish a set of rigorous certification requirements for riders and equines.

PGSAR Mounted Team is ready for service, Giddyup Team!

FUN FACT: Horses have an incredible ability to scent and can bring unique traits to a search. But like any other discipline, it requires serious training time. Horses differ from sniffer dogs in scent detection. Most differences are due to each species’ evolutionary predispositions. One is a predator, while the other is prey. A distinct advantage horses have is being able to reach from the ground level, to 2m (7’) or more, above the ground.

Princeton Ground Search and Rescue Society

Box 1288, Princeton BC, V0X 1W0 |

Society # S-43040 | Registered Charity # 875458812 RR0001

www.hcbc.ca | 7

COACHING NEWS

Biosecurity and Coaches Proper disease prevention tactics are invaluable to the horse industry. Biosecurity sounds complicated, but it is not. We have the tools and information at hand to keep the spread of communicable diseases such as EHV-1 or Strangles, to a minimum.

Coaches who travel to different barns to teach or facilitate clinics are on the front line of prevention. Barns that they go to may have horses with contagious illnesses and it is up to the coach to make sure that they do not take any trace of this to the next barn they teach at. Coaches can also spend some time educating their students about ways that they can help halt the spread of disease. Coaches can set a good example for their students by following Biosecurity guidelines.

Biosecurity Basics: • Many viruses can be hiding on your boots, jackets and clothing. Grooming tools, towels, saddle pads, saddles, bridles, and boots can also carry viruses. Do not allow students to share equipment. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer after each lesson.

• A simple way to spread disease is through how you fill a water bucket. When filling water buckets, do NOT dip the end of the hose into each bucket. Instead, hold the hose above the water when filling.

• Make sure that horses are vaccinated when travelling to competitions or different facilities.

• If you are conducting a clinic and horses are coming in from several different facilities, ask your students not to let their horses touch nose to nose. Think about the best way to minimize or avoid contact with homebased horses. The same is important when you are coaching at a competition.

• Almost all facilities have a dog or a few barn cats. If you pet one make sure you use sanitizer afterwards to avoid cross contamination. If you are bringing your dog with you when you teach, keep it on a leash or leave it in your vehicle minimizing contact.

• Recognize the signs of transmittable diseases and do not interact with a sick horse. Horses can carry disease without symptoms so while they don’t appear ill, they are able to transmit. Be cautious.

8 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

• At competitions have your students be diligent about practicing the basics of prevention. Avoid sharing tack and equipment such as buckets or manure forks. Teach them that wandering around the barns with their dogs and patting horses is a great way to spread disease. They could very well infect their own horse by doing this.

Perhaps one of the most important things a coach/owner/rider can do is to follow quarantine procedures when moving a horse from a competition venue that has an outbreak. Knowingly moving a horse from a venue known to have an outbreak to another venue or facility and not following basic biosecurity protocol is irresponsible and creates an unnecessary threat to the equine community. When returning from a competition, coaches, students and competitors should be advising the barn owners and fellow boarders that your horse was potentially exposed to a transmittable disease. Then follow the clear and simple ways to avoid spreading diseases to your fellow boarders or students’ horses.

There are many websites that present credible information, your Veterinarian is another valuable resource. Here are some sites and links that you can visit to learn more about how you as a coach can practice and promote correct Biosecurity protocols.

CFIA National Farmed Animal Health Guidelines https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/ biosecurity/standards-and-principles/proactive-management/en g/1374175296768/1374176128059?chap=0 Canadian Animal Health Surveillance System Equine disease dashboard https://app.powerbi.com/ Equine Biosecurity Principles and Best Practices https://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$Department/deptdocs.nsf/all/ cpv13683/$FILE/equine_biosecurity_principles_and_best_ practices_guide.pdf EHV Fact Sheet 1-4 https://equinediseasecc.org/Content/ContentDocs/ DiseaseFactsheet-%20EHV.pdf

BIOSECURITY:

Doing everything you can to reduce the chances of an infectious disease being carried onto your farm by people, animals, equipment or vehicles.

Healthy

The Key to Keeping Your Horses

Showing Your Horse

Visitors who travel from farm to farm and work with livestock pose the biggest threat of passing along disease carrying organisms to our horses.

• • •

Use your own trailer.

• • •

Don’t let your horse touch other horses, especially nose to nose and don’t share equipment (water and feed buckets, brushes etc.)

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Don’t ship your horses from other farms.

Ship only in a trailer that has been cleaned and disinfected. If you can “smell horse” in the empty trailer, it has not been cleaned and disinfected properly.

Wash your hands, especially after helping other people with their horses.

Don’t let strangers pet your horse, especially those with horses at home or people who have been out of the country in the past 2 weeks.

Before leaving the show grounds, clean and disinfect tack, boots, equipment and grooming supplies.

Brush off dirt or manure then disinfect (spray or wipes are easy to take with you).

When you get home, shower, blow your nose and put on clean clothes and shoes before going near other horses.

Bringing Horses Home from a Show

If one horse has been shown, all your horses need to be vaccinated.

Horses that show can bring home germs. Discuss what vaccinations the horses need and how often with your veterinarian.

If possible, isolate the horses for at least 2 weeks making sure there is no nose to nose contact.

Bringing in New Horses

Keep every new horse isolated for 30 days.

Don’t use the same pitchforks, grooming tools, feed or water buckets for the new horse.

Label separate tools with red tape, or use red brushes, etc. only for the isolation area.

Work with the isolated horse last each day. Alternately, wear boots and coveralls when working with the isolated horse and remove them before working or going near other horses. You can keep these in a plastic covered tub near the horse.

When you visit Other Farms, Show Grounds or Auction Marts

Have a pair of shoes or boots that you save for visiting and don’t wear around your own horse.

Wear plastic shoe covers, plastic bags work well.

If you are going to be working with horses on another farm, wear coveralls or plan to change clothes before returning to your horse.

When Visitors Come to You

It is best to have only one way in to your farm. Mark this as the main entrance.

Keep parking areas away from the horses so disease carrying organisms are not tracked from tires.

If the farrier or veterinarian needs to park closer, be sure their tires and shoes have been disinfected.

Keep a visitor’s log. If a disease outbreak occurs, your log might help trace the problem.

Provide clean outerwear (coveralls) and boots. Plastic disposable booties are suitable for shorter visits but can be slippery and subject to tears.

Using Disinfectants How to Disinfect: Surfaces must be clean for disinfectant to work. Brush off loose dirt and manure. If possible, wash the item with detergent

first (laundry or dish soap works well) and then use a disinfectant. Tack can be wiped with a disinfectant wipe or a disinfectant dampened cloth.

Shoes can be brushed or scrubbed off and then sprayed with disinfectant.

Examples of Disinfectants

Household Bleach: Mix 3/4 cup of bleach per gallon of water. If you don’t have a measuring cup handy, you can mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. This formula works for shoes, grooming equipment, buckets, shovels, and pitchforks. When you use bleach, make sure all dirt and manure have been cleaned off first.

Spraying Disinfectant: Be sure the label says it kills bacteria and viruses. Sprays can work well on shoes, grooming equipment, and tack. Try to remove all manure before spraying.

Hand Sanitizers: They come in gels or hand wipes. These are good for use at a show or after visiting other horses. Be sure to work the cleaner all through your fingers and under the nails.

Other Commercial Disinfectants: Always mix and use according to the label. Use products that are effective even when there is a little manure or dirt left on the surface. These are good choices for disinfecting trailers and car tires, and they also work well in foot baths.

YOU are the best protection your horses have!

For more information go to www.hcbc.ca

www.hcbc.ca | 9

55+ BC GAMES VICTORIA SEPT 13-17 2022 REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Arena Driving Trials. Dressage. Western Dressage. Working Equitation.

Working Hunter Over Fences

Deadline to register is June 30, 2022.

Join us for 4 fun-filled days of Equestrian Competition!

Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 1S8 Events for the 2022 55+ Games will include: Arena Driving Trial, Dressage, Western Dressage and 2 new events – Working Hunter and Working Equitation.

Participants may compete in a maximum of two discipline divisions.

For more details about the competition specific to the 55+ BC Games, please review the rules & technical information.

More information: https://hcbc.ca/competitions/55-bc-games/ 10 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

2022

ARE YOU A BC RIDER OR VAULTER BETWEEN THE AGES OF 12 & 18?

BC SUMMER GAMES EQUESTRIAN TEAM, THE ROAD STARTS NOW!

PRINCE GEORGE 2022 BC SUMMER GAMES, JULY 21-24 2022 MAPLE RIDGE 2024 BC SUMMER GAMES, JULY 18–21, 2024 KELOWNA 2026 BC SUMMER GAMES, JULY 23–26, 2026 If you are an Equestrian athlete competing in Dressage, Jumping, Vaulting or Eventing and will be 12 to 18 years of age as of Jan 1 2022, or if you are a Para Equestrian athlete 13 to 30 years of age, you are invited to qualify for the 2022 BC Summer Games being held in Prince George BC July 21 – 24.!

Make it your goal and part of your yearly training plan to set your sights at competing at the BC Summer Games!

For more information visit www.hcbc.ca/competitions/bc-summer-games/

DRESSAGE - PARA-DRESSAGE - JUMPING - EVENTING - VAULTING

www.hcbc.ca | 11

HEY ....

PONY TAILS FRIENDS,

' S Y ON

P E H T E C I L Y A A S D H IT' T BIR

enter Alice's birthday contest

1.

you could win some cool prizes join Pony Tails Kids Club

2.

3.

draw a picture of your favorite horse or pony(make sure to make it nice and colorful) Email your picture to ponytails.alice@hcbc.ca or Snail Mail : Alice the pony Horse Council BC 27336 Fraser Highway Aldergrove BC V4w 3n5

For more information or to join Pony Tails Kids Club visit www.hcbc.ca 12 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

Hello Spring..

Covered in horse hair.... don't care!

www.hcbc.ca | 13

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

Disaster response in 2021 BC was hit hard this year with record breaking extended periods of hot dry weather. Numerous fires ignited throughout the interior of BC, displacing hundreds of livestock. HCBC’s Animal Disaster Relief fund was utilized to reimburse volunteers involved in hauling livestock out of dangerous areas and provide feed for the evacuated animals. Policies created in 2017 around the disbursement of funds are still in place.

Approximately $30,000 dollars was distributed to help care for these animals in 2021.

One such volunteer was Kelly Kennedy, owner of Sage View Ranch who spearheaded and organized hauling for displaced livestock. Kelly also provided housing and care for numerous animals throughout the fire season. During the evacuation of the Merritt area in mid-August she put it all in perspective “This past weekend has definitely been one for the books. Amazing to see strangers come together and become friends. I have no idea how I would have gotten through without this group of friends. We stuck it out and took every call for help that we could. I am sad for the ones that we couldn’t make it to in time.

We drove all night and slept when we could in the truck. Our people behind it all thank you for taking care of everything else.

We had people and animals jammed everywhere but we made it work. It’s not just one person it’s a team! Stay safe.”

Another key volunteer that wanted to help was Ian Paton the MLA for Delta South. Ian was instrumental in organizing a group of volunteers to deliver hay to Kamloops, where many animals had been relocated. Delta farmers stepped up by donating and delivering approximately 900 bales of hay.

Picture below shows Ian and Delta farmers who faithfully showed up to load 265 bales donated by Peter and Joe Vaupotic. Many thanks to Mike Wolzen trucking and all the local farmers.

The number of people coming forward to help has been humbling to witness and has greatly assisted and supported those affected. HCBC wanted to share a few just a few highlights of the generous offerings.

14 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

The loss of hay and pasture in early November, just as winter approached compounded the challenges horse owners were struggling with as they recovered from the flood impacts.

Ontario farm owner Steve Flynn, of Flynn Farms Ltd provided over 80,000 lbs of donated hay. Trucking costs were donated

by Hensall Global Logistics and the hay was recently delivered to Merritt all the way from Clinton Ontario. The Nicola Valley Rodeo Association directors and members have shown incredible support and worked tirelessly to serve as a drop off and distribution point. Farm owners in Merritt, Princeton and surrounding areas have been able to pick up hay and feed to help offset the crippling losses they have struggled with.

Horse Council BC received a call for help early Thursday morning November 18, 2021. With the help from a quick acting Vancouver flight crew, Horse Council BC was able to get rescue equipment to Kamloops including the Anderson Sling. The sling is the only equipment capable of this type of rescue and was previously purchased by HCBC for use by the veterinary community.

The HCBC Animal Disaster Relief fund was utilized to purchase over $30,000 worth of hay to donate to those in need. Canadian Saddlery & Centurion Supply President Ron Ranney reached out early on when the flooding hit. Incredible generosity from Ron and his suppliers resulted in a long list of horse health care supplies, supplements and blankets soon to be delivered from Ontario to Merritt.

Horse Council BC’s Animal Disaster Relief Fund was also utilized to facilitate the daring equine rescue of three horses stranded in Spences Bridge. The severity of the flood damage caused a massive highway collapse on both sides of the residences and farms. This meant the only way out for these horses was via helicopter.

Volunteers were on scene to harness the horses with the Anderson Sling and ensure the journey was as stress free as possible. The successful rescue saw all horses flown to safety where they were cared for at Sageview Rescue in Kamloops.

HCBC wants to thank everyone who came forward to help and provide much needed resources. From helicopter rescues to long distance delivery it is amazing to see the compassion and support shown! 2021 hit BC hard, let’s hope 2022 brings fair weather and good health.

www.hcbc.ca | 15

RECREATION

Horse Play program coming soon!

NEW Recreation Program Launching Spring 2022!

Horse Council BC is excited to announce the Horse Play Program for recreational horse enthusiasts that will be launching this Spring. This all-inclusive program will encourage participants to learn, practice good horsemanship and to play by taking part in their favourite horse activity. This is a digital based program that will ask participants to record their horse activities and then be entered into monthly, quarterly and yearly draw prizes.

The Horse Play Program is a revamp and rebrand of HCBC’s Ride and Drive program. If you are still a Ride and Drive member you have the opportunity to submit your hours until your membership expires. Once all memberships expire the program will be phased out. The Ride and Drive program only allows members to record riding and driving hours but we wanted to make the Horse Play Program more inclusive for people who don’t do either of those activities. For example, people who vault, cross train or do ground work with their horse can record their activity in the new program. Also, forget the paper work! The Horse Play Program will be accessed on our website and later this year a mobile app option will be available.

We look forward to offering a program that inspires horse enthusiasts to increase their knowledge, be consistent with their horsemanship and have fun! The foundation of being a good horseman is having the enthusiasm and drive to be a life long learner. Our first category is the Learn category where you record activities such as reading horse related books, auditing clinics and watching educational videos. Practicing good horsemanship comes from the routine care of your horse and is an integral part of keeping them happy and healthy. The second category is the Horsemanship category where you record activities such as routine stable chores, daily grooming 16 | Equine Lifestyles SPRING/SUMMER 2022

and cleaning tack. On or off the horse we want to encourage you to play! The last category is the Play category where you record activities such as riding, driving, vaulting, ground work and cross training.

To participate you will need to be 13 years of age or older and there will be a youth category and an adult category. And the best part there will be lots of great prizes! We have looked around the province to find BC tack shops that offer online gift cards and we have found eight different tack shops to participate. So even if one of the tack stores is not close to where you live you have the ability to shop online and have it shipped to your house. We are also excited to bring you prizes from the Equus Film Channel and Pivo!

Stay tuned for the Horse Play Program launch date and get ready to submit your activity minutes for draw prizes. We hope that HCBC members will take advantage of this program, from the teenager who only has the opportunity to ride once a week to the horse owner that no longer rides but loves practicing ground work and everything in between! This program is for you no matter where you are in your journey of embodying a lifestyle with horses. We look forward to you taking part in the Horse Play Program.

COMPETITIONS

Calling all dressage enthusiasts!

HCBC/EC Dressage judges clinic Horse Council BC is very excited to announce a September 2022, HCBC/Equestrian Canada Dressage Judges Clinic with Equestrian Canada Senior Status and FEI4* Dressage Judge Cara Whitham.

Cara’s remarkable career in the equestrian industry has spanned everything from high performance dressage rider and certified coach to world-renowned judge, industry leader and volunteer. Through Cara’s celebrated career as a judge, she continues to be in high demand today, and mentors many judges in Canada and around the world. Cara has the top distinction of holding her FEI 4* judging credentials for Dressage.

Piggy backing off of her judging assignment as Dressage Judge for the 55+ Games in Victoria, Cara will be staying on to share her expertise on the art of judging Dressage.

This clinic is a must attend for all HCBC, EC Dressage Officials needing updating, any one wanting to become a Dressage Judge and wanting to start their education with one of the best or Dressage riders wanting to know what will earn you those top scores.

Don’t miss out on the invaluable opportunity, Registration is open!

Plus, she has held FEI status as a Dressage Technical Delegate, Eventing Steward, and Dressage Course Director.

Recognized internationally for her knowledge and insight into equestrian sport, Cara was hired as a television commentator for the 2007 WEG, as well as the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.

Who: Clinician: Cara Whitham EC Sr Status, FEI 3*, FEI4*

Cara’s judging career has taken her around the world and to the very top of the sport. Her contributions to equestrian sport and industry are immeasurable, and we are so fortunate to have this opportunity to benefit from her dynamic and world-class talent, bottomless commitment and invaluable experience.

Where: Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC

What: Dressage Judges Clinic When: Friday September 16 (evening), Saturday September 17, Sunday September 18 2022

For more information or to register visit www.hcbc.ca Email: competition@hcbc.ca

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55+ GAMES “Meet the Moment”

Registration is now open!

Deadline to register is June 30, 2022.

Don’t miss out on attending this fun, low key, inviting opportunity to compete and of course socialize with Equestrian friends from around the province!

Join us for 4 fun-filled days of Equestrian Competition at the Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC. Events for the 2022 55+ Games will include: Arena Driving Trial, Dressage, Western Dressage and 2 new events – Working Hunter and Working Equitation.

Participants may compete in a maximum of two discipline divisions.

We are very pleased to announce: Cara Whitham, EC SS, FEI 3, FEI 4, will be judging the Dressage and Western Dressage Competition at the 2022 55+ Games in Victoria! Now’s your chance to be judged by one of Canada’s highly regarded Dressage Judges.

Dressage Competition at the 55+ Games is the perfect opportunity to enjoy fun, lower level Competition and be judged by one of Canada’s highly regarded Dressage judges.

Or…Are you 55+ and have a young horse? Why not bring it to the Games and show it off to Cara!

Love to show but are intimidated by the big Hunter Jumper Shows? For the first time 55+ is offering a 2’3 Working Hunter Division.

This is a fun low-key division where you can jump around friendly, easy 2’3 Hunter Courses, including a Derby and a Handy Hunter. Judge: HCBC Sr and EC Sr Status Hunter Judge: Phyllis Attril.

Courses by Victoria’s’ own HCBC Sr and EC SR Status Course Designer: Peter Holmes.

Arena Driving Trial Judge and Working Equitation Judges will be announced soon!

For more information contact your 55+ Games Discipline Rep. Arena Driving Trials: Training Level 1, Preliminary Level 2 For more information please contact 55+ Games Driving Sport Chair, Tina Knott tinatrotter@hotmail.com Dressage: Equestrian Canada Tests to be used Training Level, First Level, Second Level

Western Dressage: HCBC Tests to be used Walk Jog, Training Level, First Level For more information please contact 55+ Games Dressage Sport Chair, Claire Vessey clairevessey@yahoo.com Working Equitation: Level 1 Introductory, Level 2 Novice A, Level 3 Novice B For more information please contact 55+ Games Working Equitation Sport Chair, Stella French stellafrench@telus.net 2’3″ Working Hunter Over Fences: 2’3″ Low Working Hunter, 2’3″ Working Hunter, 2’3″ Hunter Derby, 2’3″ Handy Hunter For more information please contact 55+ Games Working Hunter Sport Chair: Megan Soellner megannkash@gmail.com Please Note: The registration process is not like a regular horse show, you must register through your Zone Rep before June 30.

Information on how to register can be found on the HCBC website https://hcbc.ca/competitions/55-bc-games/ Or the 55+ Games website https://55plusbcgames.org/

2021 hcbc award Winners

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 HCBC AWARD WINNERS! - COACH OF THE YEAR: STELLA FRENCH - BOB JAMES VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: TINA KNOTT Thank you to all who took the time to nominate someone!

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 deadline is December 30th 2021.

More information can be found at hcbc.ca > about > HCBC Awards

As you may be aware, 2021 saw the retirement of HCBC’s long serving Executive Director, Lisa Laycock. Lisa started at HCBC as the bookkeeper and after some years in that role transitioned very successfully to the role of Executive Director. She remained in this role for 14 years, and was responsible for leading HCBC through some difficult challenges and ensuring the strong position we find ourselves in today. We would like to thank Lisa for all that she has contributed to our community over the years!

It's not goodbye, it's see you next year!

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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!

Follow the adventures of Alice the Pony and her friends, Oliver, Panama and Howdy and learn all about horses and ponies.

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!