Midwest Horse Digest April 2010

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MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010

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www.horsedigests.com Our congra tula to Craig Ca tions meron!

Winner of the 2010 Road to th e Horse!

APRIL 2010

Contents

Train in g wi t h To d ay’s To p Trainer s 6

Lower to Pressure by Clinton Anderson

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Sacking Out Your Horse by Ken McNabb

10 Ground Work: The Foundation by Craig Cameron 12 Spring Training - Loading and Unloading by Dennis Auslam 16 The Art of Ponying

by Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard

We s t er n P le a su r e

midwest

Horse Digest Of Interest FEATURES 14 West 20 30 Ansur Saddle Company 46 What is ACTHA and this new sport called Competitive Trail Challenge?

52 Saving America’s Living Legends LAW 35 The Use of Liability Waivers for Equestrians HEALTH

18 How Well Do You Know Western Pleasure? by Jennifer Lindgren 22 Building Confidence By Thinking “Outside-The-Box”

20 Human Health - Tick, Tick, Tick

36 Horse Health - Performance Horse Nutrition

by Tommy Garland

Special Sections

D r e s sage - E n glis h 24 B is for Balance by Tracy Porter 26 Ask Mary: What are some ideas for a spring tune-up

for my trail riding horse? by Mary Hamilton 28 Training Commands, part 6 - by Lynn Palm

Per f o r m anc e Ho r se 34 Introducing Cattle Work by Richard Winters

38 44 56 56 58 59 60 61

Equine Central Ready to Ride Guide Advertisers Index Real Estate Classifieds Photo Classifieds Upcoming Events Traders Corner

On the Cover - West 20 Ranch and Saddle Company located in East Troy, WI. Plus, Publisher of Midwest Horse Digest, Rahn Greimann congratulates Craig Cameron on \his win at the 2010 Road to the Horse.

Trai l Ho r se 48 It’ll Be Fine! part 2 by Doug Lindgren 50 Fast and Rough Canter Departures by Julie Goodnight

Eq uine VIP 54 Tami Hoag talks to Equine VIP by Susan Ashbrooke

We hope you enjoy this issue!

We are proud to be able to publish it for you, our readers, and ask that you support the advertisers that support this magazine.

Thank you!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW .HORSEDIGESTS.COM

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My wife, Shelly, and I had the great privilege to meet up with our friends and professional contributors, Ken McNabb, Tommy Garland and Richard Winters down in Murfreesboro, TN at the 2010 Road To The Horse competition. It is always fun to meet back up with friends and have the opportunity to make new acquaintances.

These men are truly pros in the horse industry and we thank them for their valiant efforts to help all of us and our horses.

A special thanks and admiration for Ken McNabb's professionalism while handling his horse in the final round of the obstacle course. Twice, Ken chose to not push his horse too hard to complete an obstacle.

At his own expense, he protected the mind and well being of his horse. He is a True Champion! Special congratulations to Craig Cameron on his victory this year, see page 13.

Rahn Greimann

Midwest Horse Rahn Greimann, Publisher, Owner and Editor Š 2008 Greimann Industries 35418 90th Street Blue Earth, MN 56013 507-526-5943 Fax 507-526-2629

Advertising Contacts Mark Bahls Peg Bahls 507-943-3355 /Fax 507-943-3352 mark@horsedigests.com peg@horsedigests.com

Julie and Rick Vinsand 877-205-7261 julie@horsedigests.com rick@horsedigests.com Andrea Jo Kroening 952-237-5311 andrea@horsedigests.com Midwest Horse Digest is distributed FREE at equinerelated businesses in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Northern Illinois and North and South Dakota. No material from this publication may be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Neither the advertisers nor Greimann Industries are responsible for any errors in the editorial copy.. Greimann Industries reserves the right to refuse any advertising which we deem unsuitable for our publication. No liability is assumed for errors in or omissions of advertisers in this publication. Opinions and views expressed in articles and advertisements are not necessarily those of the publisher, editors or employees, nor does publication of any opinion or statement in Midwest Horse Digest constitute an endorsement of the views, opinions, goods or services mentioned. While every possible effort is made to make our publication accurate and timely, Midwest Horse Digest does not warrant the accuracy of material contained in any article or the quality of goods or services contained in any advertisement.

TO ALL OF OUR ADVERTISERS, DISTRIBUTORS AND READERS WE THANK YOU! Pick up Midwest Horse Digest every month at over 850 feed stores, tack shops, veterinarians, farriers and equestrian centers across the Upper Midwest. If your location does not get Midwest Horse Digest call us at 507-526-5943 or email rahn@horsedigests.com Please direct all editorial and correspondence, as well as change of address to: rahn@horsedigests.com or call 507-526-5943

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010

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Today’s Top Trainers

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Lower to Pressure A ‘Must Do’ Exercise to Teach Your Horse to Lower his Head to Pressure.

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Pressure on the Poll When your horse is both respectful and trusting of you, then you can teach him the cues to lower his head.

The first cue asks the horse to lower his head to pressure on the poll from your thumb and index finger. Using this exercise you can teach your horse to lower his head all the way to the ground whenever you press him in between his ears. Once he has lowered his head, he should keep it lowered until you give him a cue to raise it again.

Stand on the left side of your horse facing his head with your belly button. Hold the cheek piece of the halter with your left hand. Put your right hand between the horse’s ears and gently touch his poll with your thumb and index finger; your fingers should be on either side of his forelock just behind the hard lump between his ears. Gradually increase the pressure by pressing with your fingers, then pushing harder and finally digging your fingers in until he responds by lowering his head. The instant he drops his head even slightly, immediately release the pressure and rub his poll.

Initially your horse may dislike the pressure and will react by throwing his head up.

If he does, you should keep your hand on his poll as you maintain the pressure until he finds the answer by dropping his head. The key to this exercise is to reward the slightest try. If he drops his head even slightly then you should reward him by releasing the pressure and rubbing his poll with the palm of your hand. Through repetition, your horse will gradually drop his head lower and lower until it eventually touches the ground.

Rubbing your horse after he has dropped his head is very important because it will stop him from becoming defensive about you touching his poll. Rub him for a few seconds or until he raises his head again and then repeat the exercise.

After your horse becomes relaxed with having his head lowered, teach him to keep it there until you ask him to raise it by putting your hand under his chin and lifting his head up.

by Clinton Anderson

Horse ownership should be fun for both you and your horse. A big part of what makes the time you spend with your horse fun is having a horse that is easy to handle. For many owners, clipping their horse’s ears, bridling or doing anything that involves the horse’s head is anything but enjoyable because the horse throws his head in the air, making it difficult for you to reach him.

Whenever you do anything with your horse’s head, he should lower his head to the ground making it easy for you. Most horses won’t naturally lower their heads for you, but you can teach them a cue to bring their heads down. Once your horse knows the cue, and if you are consistent in asking him to lower his head every time you do anything with his head, then it will soon become a habit and he will do it without you having to ask him.

Heads Up There are two reasons that a horse throws his head in the air: He is disrespectful of you, or he’s scared and doesn’t trust you. Both issues can be resolved by doing groundwork and then desensitizing the horse to movement around his head. Groundwork exercises such as Backing Up and Lunging for Respect Stage I and II are effective because they establish your role as the horse’s leader.

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useful if you are in a situation where you cannot touch, or it is not safe for you to touch the horse’s poll e.g. in a horse trailer.

Ensure that you teach your horse to lower his head to both cues when you are standing on either side of him. When you change sides you will have to re-teach the entire lesson as though you are dealing with an entirely different horse.

Safety Factors Always make sure that you are standing to the side of your horse and are not bent over the top of him when you are asking him to lower his head or when he has his head lowered. If you are bent over the horse and he throws his head up, you will get whacked on the chin or head.

Author’s note: A native Australian, Clinton Anderson began his quest to become the best horseman he could be by apprenticing under nationally acclaimed Australian trainers Gordon McKinlay and Ian Francis. In 1996 Clinton moved to America to continue training horses and apprenticed under Al Dunning, winner of multiple AQHA World Championships, before beginning to train under his own name.

Clinton loves training reiners and cow horses and has been successful in both competitive arenas. Clinton is the host of Downunder Horsemanship TV, the number one rated RFD TV program that airs at 10 and 12 pm Eastern Standard Time on Tuesdays and 3 pm on Sundays. To find out more about Clinton and how you can transform your horse into the partner you’ve always wanted, log onto www.downunderhorsemanship.com.

Halter Pressure You should also teach your horse to lower his head to steady pressure on the halter. To do this, you’ll take a hold of the lead rope and pull down with steady pressure until the horse drops his head. Again you are looking for small increments of improvement, and you should release the pressure initially even if the horse drops his head a half-inch. This exercise is particularly

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Sacking Out Your Horse

By Ken McNabb with Katherine Lindsey Meehan

Sacking out is getting your horse used to having all kinds of things around him and touching him. I use it when I am starting a colt for the first time, and it’s a very valuable exercise to refresh if you have an older horse that you don’t know the background on, or a horse that seems to be getting nervous and jumpy.

To me, sacking out is not about de-sensitizing the horse. I want my horse to be sensitive; that is what makes him very responsive. Sacking out is

about teaching my horse to control his emotions and make the right choices when he gets nervous or scared. I don’t have time to expose my horse to every possible situation and teach him not to be afraid of every object he might encounter in his life. Instead, I want to teach him how to control his emotions in a way that applies to any situation he may encounter.

Training is about conditioning and muscle memory. When you are driving down the road and you see the brake lights go on in the car on front of you, your right foot automatically moves to the brake pedal of your vehicle. You don’t have to stop and think “I see brake lights, I need to stop my car, how do I do that?” You have put your foot on the brake so many times that the response is automatic. Through many repetitions in sacking out, you want to condition your horse that when he sees something scary he needs to calm down, stay put (don’t run away), and keep his feet at the same tempo and speed they were at before he saw the scary situation.

For this exercise, you will need round pen, a halter and lead rope, a lariat, a Navajo-type saddle blanket, and a plastic grocery bag. I try to keep all exercises as simple as possible for me, that way I can keep things simple for my horse.

Approach everything with the mindset “how can I make it easiest for my horse to learn what I want to teach him?”

Start with your horse haltered in the round pen.

Pile your gear in the middle of the pen, and lead your horse around. As you walk, deliberately “spook” at things. Stop and jump a little. Remain

calm, but notice how your horse starts paying a lot more attention to you. When your horse spooks away from you, let his feet leave but don’t let his nose leave you. Keep making spooky noises and waving your arms or whatever you were doing at first that set him off. What you are looking for is his feet to slow down and his emotions to start calming. As soon as you sense this is happening, stop whatever you were doing that caused him to spook in the first place and pet him. Do this just until your horse consistently brings his emotions down soon after he is afraid of something. You don’t want to overdo this part of the exercise, because too much of this will make him dull and unresponsive.

Next, take off the halter and lead rope and turn your horse loose in the round pen. Your horse needs to be allowed to run away so that he will make the decision to stand and accept things without being forced to do so under physical restraint.

Take your lariat, and rub it gently on your horse, starting at his nose and moving up and back. Put your hand on his jaw, not to restrain him but as a little comfort. If he stands still and lets you rub the lariat on him for a few seconds, take it down and pet him. Move away and then come back. As your horse gets more comfortable, rub him for longer periods of time and move back until you can rub over his face, head, neck, back, haunches, and all four legs. If at any time during the process he moves away, that is okay. Just send him out around the pen and make him work for a few minutes, then invite him to come back to you.

If your horse doesn’t move off during this process that is great. You are not wasting your time; you are checking your foundation.

After your horse is comfortable having the lariat rubbed all over him, uncoil it a little and run the rope around your horse’s belly like a girth. Gently tighten and loosen it, and move it back along his whole belly and flank area. Stay in a safe position so you don’t get kicked by accident.

Next, take the saddle blanket and repeat the process you went through with the lariat. Start at the head and move back along your horse’s entire body. Start with the saddle blanket folded small, and gradually unfold it as your horse gains confidence. When he is comfortable with the blanket, do the same process with the plastic bag.

Remember to release the pressure regularly by taking the scary object away and stepping back from your horse. Reward him when he does well, and if he moves away at any point just send him around the pen to work for a little while, and then offer him the choice to come back to you.

Enjoy your horses, and until next time may God bless the trails you ride.

For more information on Ken McNabb’s programs call us at 307-645-3149 or go to www.kenmcnabb.com.

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www.horsedigests.com "Preparation is the foundation for all success.”

GROUND WORK The Foundation

by Craig Cameron

Ground work is the basis for all horse training. When you actually begin to teach your horse to ride in earnest, he'll be ready if you've done your ground work and prepared him from the time he was a youngster. Preparation is the foundation for all success.

Round Pen The ideal place to begin training is in a round pen because it has no corners for a horse to stop in or escape to.

One of the best things about a round pen is that it allows the horse to use his strongest instinct to survive and that's to run. If your horse needs to run, let him do it. Mother Nature gave him four legs, big lungs and the gift of speed and tells him to run whenever he thinks there's a problem. You can allow your horse to do that in a round pen, but don't think of it simply as a place to gallop your horse until he's too tired to buck. It's been my experience that there are very few times when a horse is too tired to buck.

The training process is all about dealing with

the horse's mind, which controls his body, legs and feet.

His legs and feet are what he fights and flees with. If you can control the horse's mind, you can control the horse's body.

Basic Ground Work Start your training with basic ground work and by desensitizing your horse, which is all part of taking the fear out of the horse. A horse isn't well broke unless you can handle every part of his body, including his face, legs and feet. I like to say that a horse needs to be gentle from the first whisker on his nose to the last hair in his tail.

Some horses are a lot more touchy, sensitive or protective than others. Work with the horse and his particular circumstances. Be patient and take all the time your horse needs to desensitize him to your touch. The main reason for ground work is to relax your horse, to take the pressure off him, to desensitize him, to get him to accept a touch and follow a feel so he can give and yield to pressure.

The tools you need include a rope halter, 12foot lead line, 25-foot soft cotton rope with a brass

snap, a 50-foot lariat rope with a horse-handling honda and a flag. The latter is nothing more than a swagger stick (3 to 4 feet long) or you can use a short longe whip or buggy whip. Tie a plastic bag or whip cloth or something fluttery on its end as a flag.

As I mentioned in the before, some horses are quite bothered by a flag's noise and flutter.

They don't know what it is. Introduce your horse to it slowly. Rub him with it until he accepts it all over his body. On a real skittish horse, you might have to start by wadding up a plastic sack in your hand and rubbing the horse with it until he relaxes and is comfortable with the material's noise and feel.

To start ground work, put a rope halter on your horse and attach a 12-foot lead line. Rub the horse all over with the lead line or use the coils of the 25-foot rope. Just like the flag, make sure the horse accepts the touch everywhere, from his muzzle, which is the most sensitive part of the horse, to the last hair of his tail.

If your horse is particularly sensitive, use the 25-foot rope instead of the 12-foot lead line because you have more line to work with should your horse become troubled by the touch. You're better able to stay out of harm's way with a 25-foot rope than a 12-foot one.

You also can use your flag to touch him and still stay safe. Remember: Safety in all things comes first.

Any time your horse becomes frightened, take away the lead line, rope or flag. Never force anything on your horse. Quietly present it to him again, and if he becomes nervous, take it away again. Do this until he realizes it won't hurt him.

Ground Work provides a solid basis for communication long before you step in the saddle. Safety First!

F u r t h e r Desensitization practices next issue…

You can order Craig’s book and DVD’s at www.CraigCameron.com

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Great Prairie Modern Pentathlon Event Slated for July 10, 2010 The 2010 Great Prairie Modern Pentathlon will take place on Saturday, July 10, in the towns of Long Lake and Hamel. The event is hosted

by Great Prairie Sports of Minneapolis.

The Olympic sport of Modern Pentathlon consists of five disciplines (Fencing, Swimming, Equestrian Jumping, Shooting and Running) competed in one day. Since the 2008 Beijing Games, the Run and Shoot are now combined into one event. We train and compete in each sport very well individually; however, it is time we prepare athletes to perform each sport collectively. The Great Prairie Modern Pentathlon will feature competition for men and women in four age groups:

their future elite teams. It's time for Team USA to claim gold. If Minnesota can produce the Women's Gold Medalist in Downhill Skiing during Vancouver 2010, we can produce a Gold Medalist in Modern Pentathlon for 2016, 2020, 2024 ...

For those wanting to familarize themselves with the rules of UIMP: http://www.pentathlon.org/index.php?option=com

_content&view=article&id=159&Itemid=148 For those desiring more information about USA Modern Pentathlon: http://usapentathlon.org/ For all participants and volunteers, this link provides a very good example of the Combined (Running/Shooting) event, which is the last element of Modern Pentathlon: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK9WqVr_z4c More information is available on our website at www.greatprairiesports.com. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Youth (12 and younger) Junior (13-14) Senior (15-17) Masters (18+) The Fencing and Swimming competition will be held at the Orono Education Link in Long Lake, while the Equestrian Jumping and Combined: Shooting/Running events will take place at Skyrock Farm in Hamel.

Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the Modern Olympics, “modernized” (to the late 1800s) the classic Pentathlon performed by the ancient Greeks, hence the name. He chose the five disciplines because he believed those were the skills that best represented Napoleon’s officers. Since he also created the Olympic emblem - with its five interconnected rings - he believed the winner of Modern Pentathlon represented the best athlete of the Olympic Games.

Great Prairie Sports has been working with USA Modern Pentathlon to build the base of Modern Pentathlon and prepare athletes for national and international competition. When comparing the best high school 3200m Runners and 200m Swimmers in the State of Minnesota, their times beat or are competitive with the best times established at the 2009 UIMP Junior World Championships. For far too long, Europeans have dominated Modern Pentathlon. Recently, other nations have developed a strong base for

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Spring Training - Loading and Unloading

by Dennis Auslam Spring is here and that means many of you will be traveling to events and trail rides. That also means you will be loading and unloading your horses. Which brings me to the subject of this article - How well does your horse load and unload from the trailer? Are they a willing participant or do you have to beg, pull, push and holler, only to give up an hour later.

Nothing can be more frustrating than a horse that will not load or unload safely from your trailer. Sometimes they load well and do not unload.

Sometimes they will unload easily, but loading is

a real trial. Sometimes it is both, they won't load and once you get them in they won't come out.

Much of the problem horses will have with loading is based on their lack of confidence and fear level. Your lack of confidence and your fear level also contributes to the problem.

Over the years I have loaded and unloaded thousands of horses. Very early on I developed system that works with any style of trailer and any horse.

One of the first things you should do before starting to work on trailer loading with your horse is inspect your trailer. Make sure all handles and obstacles are out of the way and there is nothing protruding that could cause injury to your horse. Latches need to be out of the way and other objects that could cause injury need to be addressed. When you are ready to start you also want to make sure you have plenty of time available and are not in a hurry to get the horse loaded.

You will need a halter, I prefer a rope halter, a lead rope approximately 12 foot long and a 5 foot whip with a short whip end. I use a front leg tapping method, tapping on the back of the front legs, to move the horse forward into the trailer.

One of the training methods you can start with, before moving on to a trailer, is getting the horse to move forward and up onto a bridge or other open obstacle that they would have to step up onto just like they would have to step up into a trailer. This will help both your confidence and the horse’s confidence.

The first thing you will do is walk the horse up to the trailer and encourage him to move forward into the trailer. You will be positioned at the side of the trailer opening. If you have difficulty getting the horse to move forward into the trailer began to tap its front legs with the whip. This does not hurt the horse, it just encourages the horse to move forward. If you have difficulty in even getting the horse to move close to the trailer you use the same tapping method, encouraging him to move towards the trailer opening.

Always be aware of where the horse is at and keep the horse out of your space. Your safety is just as important as the horses and you need to stay out of striking distance. The tapping stick should keep you at a safe distance, but always be aware of the space between you and the horse When you have the horse up to the trailer you will again encourage the horse to move forward into the trailer by tapping on the back of the horses front legs. Your horse should eventually step up with at least one hoof to check and see if this contraption is safe. That is what you are looking for and have been asking for, let him relax and check it out. If he moves back apply the tapping pressure again to move him forward.

At the point that you have the horses front end in the trailer you can start tapping on the back of his back legs to encourage him to continue to move forward.

Never pressure the horse beyond his level of confidence, which will grow with each step forward he takes into the trailer and realizes there is not a bogey man in there that's going to get him. Release your pressure and let him relax when he makes the correct movement forward. Give him time to check things out, this will allow his confidence to grow.

When he has successfully gotten all the way into the trailer let him relax. If he wants to come out allow him to come out and then start over.

When the horse is relaxed in the trailer you can go in and teach the horse to back out.

Again, as in all horse training, you are applying pressure, and releasing the pressure when the horse responds correctly. If you watch the horses body language and learn to encourage the horse at the right times, and let the horse relax at the right times, you are on your way to a successful horse loading experience.

Remember, if you are experiencing difficulty or this is beyond your level of confidence or the horse is extremely difficult, it is best to work with a professional.

Stay safe and have a great spring!

Dennis Auslam of Redwood Stables in Morton, MN, trains both the horse and the rider through lessons and clinics. He runs a regular schedule of clinics for Confidence Building, Horsemanship and Cattle Work, including Roping Clinics and has recently added a Challenge Trail Course to his facility.

Call 507-430-0342 or email him at redwoodstables@mvtvwireless.com - You can visit his website at www.redwoodstables.com

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ROAD TO THE HORSE

Craig Cameron 2010 World Champion of Colt Starting Texas Hall of Fame cowboy, Craig Cameron, has been crowned the 2010 World Champion of Colt Starting by winning the Road to the Horse in Murfreesboro, TN. Cameron was going head to head with Ken McNabb and 2009 World Champion, Richard Winters. The competition began with each of them picking out their colt from a remuda of 10. Each had 3 hours over a two day period to get the colt started under saddle and ride the colt through a difficult obstacle course. This is a challenge under any circumstances, but to get it done in front of a crowd of 7,000 spectators adds an element that is beyond what most people can successfully accomplish.

The panel of judges gave Cameron the nod as did the unofficial vote of the crowd via text message.

Cameron is often referred to as the Mick Jagger of the round pen and the George Strait of clinicians. He feels honored to be compared in this manner to these two legends as a horseman.

At age 61, his schedule remains rigorous and he has no plans to slow down as he continues to travel nationwide and to other countries, teaching and demonstrating his superior horsemanship skills to hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CRAIG CAMERON, 2010 WORLD CHAMPION OF COLT STARTING!

Onwer and Publisher of Midwest Horse Digest, Rahn Greimann, gets a chance to congratulate Craig Cameron in Murfreesboro, TN at The Road to the Horse competition

Equine Dictionary Longeing - A training method a horse uses on its owner with the purpose of making the owner spin in circles-rendering the owner dizzy and light-headed so that they get sick and pass out, so the horse can go back to grazing.

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West 20 Ranch and Saddle Company in East Troy, Wisconsin has long been known as the place to buy a saddle. Just the number of saddles on hand at West 20 is enough to surprise even the most seasoned saddle shopper. In fact, visiting customers from Texas, Oklahoma, Montana and similar Western locales often comment on how much they wish they had a store like West 20 "back home". Yet West 20 is more than just the savvy saddle shopper’s paradise. It is the truest example of the center of our industry. A place where beginners can learn, and experienced horsemen can exhibit their skills. A home for everything horse related. The place a horseperson can call to find not just a hard to find piece of equipment or a saddle, but an honest referral for a farrier or a veterinarian, a horse hauler, riding lessons for themselves or their kids, or knowledgeable answers to myriad of common and not so common questions about equipment and horses. In addition to the retail business, West 20 hosts and promotes a large number of horse shows each year, drawing participants from quite a distance. The ranch is also home to a successful 20 year old breeding program, and raises high quality American Quarter Horses.

For over 20 years, Julie Cyra and her knowledgeable staff have been fitting saddles to horses of all breeds and types, from all backgrounds and disciplines. From Quarter Horses to Friesians to Fjords, Gaited and Dressage horses, ponies and draft horses, West 20 is the destination point for customers struggling with saddle fit.

Julie Cyra presents many Saddle Fitting Clinics at Horse Fairs and Expos. These clinics include The Physics of Saddle Fitting, which gives riders of all disciplines a better understanding of how different types of saddles affect their ride and their horse’s movement, as well as improving their understanding of saddles and saddle trees.

Clinics will be presented this year at the Michigan Horse Expo at MSU, Illinois Horse Fair, and Midwest Horse Fair, among others. Clinic attendees typically comment that they thought they understood saddle fitting, until they came to the clinic. They leave with a clear picture of the mechanics of the horse, and how the shape of the tree, rather than the width, is key. West 20’s retail store was designed with saddle fitting in mind. The back of the store has a glass viewing room that looks into an indoor arena where customers can bring their own horse for a free saddle fitting, and actually get to ride in a potential new saddle. Horse owners appreciate West 20's huge selection of high quality, American Made saddles and tack. The selection can be overwhelming; so many shoppers plan a day trip to West 20. There are saddles for all disciplines and budgets, and a vast selection of bits, bridles, strap goods of all types, and, of course, a large selection of Western wear and English attire.

Hats are a big part of West 20's popularity as

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well. They carry a wide array of both straw and felt hats, and even provide old fashioned hat shaping and cleaning services. West 20 also offers a wonderful variety of Western home furnishings, including framed artwork, sculptures, kitchen and bath accessories, and gifts galore for both the horseman and the Western lifestyle enthusiast.

In addition to being the largest and most extensive saddle shop in the Midwest, West 20 is also home to a rapidly expanding horse show series. This year, West 20 will host its 7th Annual Open Horse Show Series, which consists of five Open Shows. The series participants have a chance to win embroidered prizes at each show.

The Grand and Reserve Grand Champions in all divisions, including Halter, have a chance to be awarded a custom buckle by Montana Silversmiths. The buckles are presented at the Holiday Horse Show, held annually in November.

The Holiday Horse Show is popular with the youngsters, as the show day wraps up with a group of fun classes, including a costume class.

Over Halloween, West 20 has put together a show that includes fun classes as well as a typical open show schedule. In 2008, West 20 developed an Open Gaited Horse Show Series that has become a great success. This is a three show series that invites the horse owners of all gaited breeds to participate. This series culminates with an Award Presentation held annually during the Holiday Open House and Presentation of Horses for Sale, held the first week of December. Gaited Show Series participants are presented with custom Montana Silversmiths buckles as well. The Fox River Saddle Club also merits mention. This is a group that has been in existence for generations, and has produced many successful trainers and exhibitors in the Midwest. They have developed a strong show series at West 20, and encourage family participation and a strong spirit of volunteerism. This year, West 20 has added a two day Jean Cyra Memorial Horse Show, celebrating the life and spirit of Jean Cyra, mother of proprietor Julie Cyra. Jean Cyra passed away in October of this year, after a five year battle with Multiple Myeloma, a cancer of the blood plasma. This show will include an Open Pleasure Show on Saturday, May 8th, and an Open Speed Show on Sunday, May 9th, which is Mother’s Day. Proceeds from this show will be donated to Multiple Myeloma research. Prizes for these shows will be extensive, as manufacturers are showing their support by donating prizes for the event. Class sponsorships are available, and more information and a complete list of sponsors can be seen at www.west20.com. West 20 is happy to announce their NBHA Barrel Racing Series of shows, and more information is available online. This series begins in May.

West 20 will be hosting several clinics this year as well, including the ever popular “Ladies Only…Fundamentals of Cow Work”, brought to you by West 20, and presented by Steve Lundean. This year West 20 will also add a coed version of this clinic, as well as the more advanced Intermediate Cow Work Clinic. Another great clinic being brought to you by West 20 and Classic Equine, in conjunction with the Reining Horse Sports Foundation and NRHA is the Reining For Beginners Clinic being held in June.

This clinic is designed to bring top trainers together with beginning reiners to develop their skills, and also to help bring new participants to the great sport of Reining. Another big draw at West 20 is the Drill Team Competition held in June. This is hosted by the Kettle Moraine Rough Riders and brings drill teams from all over the Midwest to compete for cash and prizes. It is great entertainment, and an example of great team work and choreography, and is a moving and very patriotic event to watch. A great new event developed by West 20 this year is Stock Horse 101, Presented by Jim Truemper, and Sponsored by Simco/Longhorn and Tex Tan. This clinic will be held July 31 and August 1, and will bring experienced Stock Horse Of Texas exhibitor Jim Truemper to the Midwest to explain the Stock Horse and Ranch Horse Versatility classes, as they were originally designed and developed by Texas stock men and women. Simco/Longhorn and Tex Tan have responded to West 20’s request to bring this clinic to the Midwest by sponsoring the majority of the cost, making this a very affordable option for those looking to develop their Ranch Horse skills. More clinics and events are listed online at www.west20.com.

West 20 is home to a 20 year old breeding program, raising high quality American Quarter Horses that excel in a vast array of disciplines.

Comments from horse buyers, and horses for sale, can be seen online at www.west20.com.

Horses are boarded and trained at West 20, and they offer a great lesson program. Lessons are available for Western and English riders, youth and adult. Reining lessons are available, as well.

Facility rental is available for your club or event, and West 20’s marketing team will help make your event a success. Planning a day trip to West 20? It’s only four miles from Southern Kettle Moraine Horse Rider’s Park. Plan to come for a saddle fitting or show? They will be happy to provide you with overnight stabling and directions.

West 20 is open 10-6, 7 days a week.

Plan a trip to West 20 this year.

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15

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The Art of Ponying rope in our right hand with the ponied horse on our horse’s right side (see photo 1). This way we’re out of kicking range should a tussle occur between the horses. Now we’ll just move our horse into position alongside and parallel to the horse in training, so that both are facing the same direction. Then we’ll try to just walk around gently encouraging the youngster to walk.

We do this while holding the lead rope in our right hand, close to our thigh. If he’s comfortable with this we’ll just keep at it, starting and stopping, and every once in a while petting the youngster while we’re

by Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard all standing still. We’ll pet his neck and head gently (photo 2). Repeat We’re going to take a break from the on the other side by backing your horse away versatility articles this month and talk about and slipping the lead rope over the head of the using your own broke horse to help train horse you’re riding.

Next we’ll start to move the youngyoungsters or even older horses that need some help. Your horse is much stronger than you, ster’s front end by walking forward and then and allows you to get close to and above the directing our horse toward the youngster’s head other horse without actually being on him. A and shoulders, kind of pushing them away (photo “pony” horse can also soothe a nervous 3). When he moves his shoulders over, quit pushing and praise. When you pet you can horse just by being there.

To begin you’ll need to outfit your horse in also include tapping lightly on the saddle and his usual tack using a western saddle with a shaking it a little. Again, repeat on the other side.

We’ll now want to change positions and horn. Do the same with the horse you’ll be ponying (training while you ride your horse), but have our horse’s head by the youngster’s rear use a halter on the trainee with a 10-12 foot l end, and we’ll begin to disengage the hindquaread rope instead of a bridle. If you can’t yet catch ters by gently pulling the lead rope toward the or saddle the horse in training you’ll need to youngster’s hip (photo 4). When it disengages do some round pen work and sacking out first release the pressure and reward with praise and until he’ll accept these things, as well as ropes pets. You can now hopefully begin to touch the top of his head, ears and between his eyes. Also across, around and over his body.

Next mount up your horse while holding begin to bump him lightly with your foot so that on to the other horse’s lead rope with one hand. he’s comfortable with it. Repeat on the other side.

Finally you can ask the other horse to We usually mount our horse on the side away from the “ponied horse”. For example we’d mount respond to the pressure of the halter by dallying on our horse’s left side while holding the lead your rope around the horn of your saddle in a

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counter clockwise fashion, locking your hand down in front of the pommel (be sure your thumbs and fingers are clear of any entanglement in the rope or you could lose one of those digits (photo 5). Then back your horse away. You may also have to use this method to get the other horse to move if he refuses to go forward at all in the beginning. Just be sure you’ve gone far enough away when you pull so that he won’t land in your lap if he jumps forward.

Ponying is a great way to teach other horses, and your own mount will learn to love his “job”, too. Doing something together as partners also builds the bond between you.

Until next time, ride safe! ©Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard 3/10.

Bob Jeffreys and Suzanne Sheppard travel nationwide teaching people how to bring out the best in their horses. Their homebase is Bob’s Two as One Ranch in Middletown, NY. For info about Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Challenge, private horse training lessons, riding lessons, clinics, DVDs, books, Horsemanship Ed Courses and ProTrack™ Trainer Certification Programs please visit TwoasOneHorsemanship.com or call 845-6927478. Free horse training downloads, too!

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 17

Western Pleasure

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10 Most Common Questions About Winning Western Pleasure

How Well Do You Know Western Pleasure? © 2010 by: Jennifer Lindgren

Where should the Western Pleasure horse be carrying his head and neck in relation to his shoulder? The style of head and neck carriage depends on both the breed of the horse and his individual conformation. A proper topline allows your horse to move with a free flowing stride, keeping his gaits balanced and rhythmic.

If you are showing a stock type horse (Quarter Horse, Palomino, Paint, Buckskin, etc.) you will follow AQHA rules and standards which clearly state that the tips of the ears should not fall below the withers consistently and the head

18 April 2010

should be slightly in front of the vertical.

Topline and head carriage should remain consistent throughout the entire class.

Is passing another horse penalized? Many riders are reluctant to pass another horse, fearing that the Judge will penalize their horse for moving faster than the one on the rail. Passing is often essential to acquire strategic rail position or avoid another horse. Judges focus on watching quality of movement and passing can showcase your horse, allowing the Judge to directly compare you to another entry. Don’t assume that a horse who moves extremely slow is the better mover. You should never stay

behind a horse that is misbehaving or that you are dangerously close to. A smooth pass that highlights your horse’s abilities will earn you more points than locking yourself nervously into a poor position.

How quickly should I execute a transition?

Transitions should be completed in a timely manner. Scan the arena, assess your spacing, and be aware of the judge’s position prior to moving off. Riders mistakenly believe that they should wait until the rider in front of them lopes or jogs off. This often leads to problems. What if the horse in front spooks, hesitates too long, or fails to move on? If you are confident in your horse’s abilities, move off the rail, complete the transition, pass the other entry, and smoothly move into a new rail spot. If you need to hide a poor transition, keep an eye on the judge cueing while his head is turned. While a judge can’t credit what he doesn’t see, he also can’t debit it!

Should I lope canted or straight? Loping a horse slightly canted, where his shoulder is tipped towards the rail (hip to the inside), is the proper way to demonstrate a cadenced pleasure lope. A horse that lopes freely in the field will can’t slightly. This means that instead of the hind and front feet moving directly in front of each other, in two tracks, there are actually 3 tracks.

If loping on the right lead, the right front and the left hind will move in the same track or line. On the stock horse circuit, there has been a trend towards overly canting, making the horse move crooked down the rail. This is incorrect and the Breed organizations are working hard to make sure this motion is penalized. Watching a horse from behind makes it very easy to determine if he is loping properly.

Do I have to show my horse on both the rail and the inside? No. If you can hold rail position, keep it. Some exhibitors will give up a great spot on the rail to show to the inside.

This often backfires and costs the exhibitor a ribbon. Don’t be afraid to break out of a crowd if you need to be seen, but then return back to a comfortable spot on the rail when possible.

If it is all about the horse, why does my tack and attire matter so much? If you look great, you will feel great. Also, your horse, just like yourself, will look better in some colors. A unique, professional outfit will help a judge locate you in a large class. You and your horse should shine. Clean tack shows your pride and dedication Just like in any sport, following rules and traditions on attire is important.

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Do Judges really watch the back-up? Yes. Keep showing and do not chit-chat until the card is handed in. Judges will walk the line to double check numbers, look for illegal equipment, and get an up-close look at both you and your horse. Occasionally, placings are so obvious that even the worst back-up couldn’t change them, but most of the time, the Judge is finalizing his decision. If the Judge speaks to you, respond politely and with a smile.

Who decides the rules or standards that govern horse shows? Breed organizations take rules and regulations very seriously. As new issues or trends arise, organizations face them head on. But, just like with any governing body, it may take a few years for new rules to be implemented and properly interpreted. Get involved at the local, state, or national level if you want to have input into how your breed of horses is shown and judged.

Do I really need a professional trainer to win? That depends on both the level you wish to compete and your experience. If your dream is to win a World or National title, I highly recommend you enlist the help of a professional who is successful at that level. Competitors at the Open show level can often be successful on their own if they start with a well trained horse. There is much more to competing than just owning a great horse and knowing how to ride well. I recommend you start with a trainer, then break off on your own once you feel confident you truly understand how to compete.

If you can’t afford professional help, attend clinics, shows, and read up on what to expect in the ring.

What will give me the edge over the competition? Attitude is everything! If you don’t look and feel like a winner, why should the Judge choose you to be one? Ride with pride and you will always be memorable.

Jennifer Lindgren has been an All-Breed Judge since 1985. She is an experienced competitor who has earned Regional and National awards in Halter, Western Equitation and Hunter. She loves all breeds of horses and keeps her private collection in Grant Park, IL. contact: jenlind22msn.com

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April 2010 19

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Tick, Tick,

Tick, TICK!

headache. Just about the time you decide to see a doctor, the symptoms abate. You decide it was some sort of flu or virus which has run its course. Tick, Tick, Tick. (part 1) by Martie Jacobson Gradually, over time, you begin to experience strange symptoms like joint pain, severe headaches, you decide it hasn’t been attached for very irregular heart beat and unbelievable fatigue. long, certainly not for that dangerous 24 hour Months pass. You wonder what is happening to period of which you’ve been warned. Just in your body as you find yourself experiencing weird case, you vow to check the site for the target twitching of the face and other muscles, tingling, rash you’re sure will alert you to the possibility of numbness, dizziness, intermittent nausea, diffiLyme Disease. Tick, Tick, Tick. culty concentrating, forgetfulness, poor short You check the site every day for a month. term memory and sensitivity to light. Tick, Tick, No target rash so you figure you’re good to go. Tick, Tick.

No worries. Tick, Tick, Tick.

You finally make an appointment with your Weeks later, you experience flu-like symp- doctor. A test for Lyme Disease (not “Lyme’s” toms of fatigue, fever, achy muscles and a Disease) is one of several tests ordered by your doctor. It comes back negative and all other test results are normal as well. Although you are puzzled as to what is causing your various symptoms you breathe a sigh of relief. Save your breath …you may need it because you just may have entered the nightmare of Late Stage Lyme Disease. Tick, Tick, Tick, Tick!

False negative tests may occur if performed too early or due to defects in test sensitivity, too low an antibody level to detect, or the bacterium has changed which can limit the immune system’s recognition. Ask to be tested for one or more of the following potential co-infection: Babesiosis, Bartonella, Ehrlichiosis/ Anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Tularemia. Not only do you want to be treated for any of these infections, but these tick-borne diseases are often carried by a tick which also carries the Lyme bacterium, which, unfortunately, means you very well may have Lyme, even with the negative test result. Doctors should not rely solely on tests but seriously consider your symptoms and medical history. If your doctor pooh-poohs your concerns, run, do not walk, to another doctor. Your life may depend upon it.

The Truth About Lyme Disease You’ve just returned from a weekend of camping and wonderful trail riding shared with good friends. Your horse is now relaxing with his pasture mates, the trailer is unpacked and it’s time for a hot, soothing shower.

As you’re about to enter the shower you notice a tick attached behind your knee. You call to your spouse to bring the tweezers and he grasps the tick close to the skin, tugs and proudly proclaims he’s gotten the entire tick including the head. It doesn’t look very big, so

Ten Facts About Lyme Disease: Supplied by the Lyme Disease Association, Inc. 1. Lyme is the most prevalent vector-borne disease in the U.S. and it’s found in more than 65 countries world-wide.

2. According to the Centers of Disease Control & Prevention (CDC,) only 10% of Lyme Disease cases meeting the CDC criteria are reported each year. That means about 230,000 new cases of Lyme meeting that criteria actually occur each year in the U.S. 2007 saw a 38% increase in cases in the year 2006.

3. Patients with Lyme Disease often have co-infections with Babesia, Anaplasma, Bartonella, or other organisms, clouding the diagnostic and treatment picture.

4. Lyme Disease, the great imitator, can be misdiagnosed as MS, ALS, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Autism, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

5. A bite from a tick that’s infected with Lyme Disease bacteria can lead to neurologic, cardiac, arthritic and psychiatric manifestations in humans.

6. Children, ages 5 – 14 are at highest risk of acquiring Lyme Disease. Some studies show significant IQ drops in students with Lyme Disease but reversed after treatment.

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7. Lab tests for Lyme Disease are not reliable; you can test negative and still have the disease.

8. Lyme Disease can cross the placenta and may possibly cause birth defects or even death of the fetus.

9. A 2006 published CDC animal study shows that transmission of Borrelia burgdorferi (the bacterium that causes Lyme) through blood transfusion in mice is possible.

10. A rash does not always occur with Lyme Disease. Symptoms may occur days or months after a tick bite & the tick does NOT have to be attached for 24 hours.

Resources for Lyme Disease Information: The International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society: www.ilads.org Minnesota Lyme Action Support Group: www.mlasg.com Lyme Disease Association: www.lymediseaseassociation.org Lyme Info: www.lymeinfo.net Minnesota Online Lyme Support: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/minnesotalyme Free Tick Identification Service: If you remove a tick which has potentially fed (contains blood,) call Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, Attn: Tick ID Services, 2099 University Ave. West, St. Paul, MN 55104-3431 at 651-6438384 for instruction. Before calling, place the tick into a hard film container or pill bottle.

Tick ID Services will instruct you as to how to ship the tick to them for testing.

Martie Jacobson is a free-lance writer whose 30 year old daughter is bed-ridden with Late Stage Lyme Disease To read Elizabeth’s story and for access to informational links go to: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethfadling.

Martie may be reached at mlj@2z.net. She wishes to acknowledge and thank all of the above listed resources for information included within this article.

May is National Lyme Disease Awareness Month. A walk-run will be held May 22nd in Forest Lake, MN. For more information or to participate, please go to www.mlasg.com The award winning film, “Under Our Skin,” will be shown several times at the Sawmill Inn in Grand Rapids, MN. Please call 218-244-0286 for dates and information.

Part 2 of this series on Lyme Disease will be included in next month’s publication.

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April 2010 21

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Building Confidence By Thinking “Outside-The-Box”

easy steps, you’ll be ready to begin working with the training ball under saddle and that is the topic of our next article!

will relax and soon begin nuzzling and/or biting the ball. Let your horse follow the ball until they’re relaxed and focused on you and the training ball.

Step Two: Once your horse has achieved a good comfort level with the ball, you can slowly and gently begin rolling the ball against your horses’ front legs. This process will build

About Tommy Garland: Tommy Garland has ridden horses all his life and credits his trainer father, also named Tommy, with teaching him much of what he learned early on about horsemanship. Tommy has spent the past 30 years training Arabians and Half-Arabians, but Quarter Horses, Tennessee Walking Horses, Paints and Mules are part of his traiing program as well. His techniques have been universally accepted, respected and utilized by horse owners of all breeds & disciplines.

Tommy had a very popular TV show, “CPR For The Horse & Rider” on RFD TV for a number of years and he regularly participates at clinics,

confidence and will get your horse accustomed to movement on the trails, in the show arena, etc. Initially your horse probably won’t be too excited about this process, but the more you repeat this exercise the more comfortable your horse will become.

Step Three: When your horse is comfortable with you gently rolling the ball against their front legs you can begin the same procedure on the hind legs. Again, this gets your horse used to sudden movement, helps desensitize them and gives them something to focus on.

As with anything, these steps should be repeated on a regular basis with your horse.

As soon as you are comfortable with these

expos, and other equestrian events throughout the United States, Canada and Brazil. He is a regular contributor to several popular equine publications and his online clinics and training DVD’s are valuable resources for any who loves horses!

Tommy resides in Virginia with his wife Dawn and children, Samantha, Katie and TBird (Tommy Jr.). For additional information on products, training aids, DVDs and clinic and expo schedule, please visit www.tommygarland.com or email us at info@tommygarland.com.

by Tommy Garland My father, who also happens to be a horse trainer, has taught me many valuable lessons in my life, but one of the most important was understanding the difference between teaching and forcing a horse to do what I wanted them to do. That lesson has served me well over the years and has inspired me to try new training tools and techniques on the horses I’ve had the opportunity to work with over the years.

I learned early on that sometimes teaching a horse to do what I wanted them to do would require patience, an open mind and the ability to try new things and think, “outside-the-box”. That philosophy is how I discovered the benefits of implementing an equine training ball into my training program. For the past 20+ years, the training ball has been a staple in my training program.

Horses that might be spooky, timid, or lacking confidence, can benefit immensely from this particular training technique and by following these simple steps, you can build a confident and respectful horse.

Step One: You will begin by working with your horse on the ground with a rope halter and lead rope. Move the ball slowly towards your horse. Make sure you give your horse time to become familiar with the training ball and then begin slowly pushing the ball away from your horse. Encourage your horse to move forward and follow the ball. When your horse becomes comfortable following the ball, they

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Wind Rider Challenge at the Midwest Horse Fair

The hottest all breed, cross disciplinary competition in North America will be coming to the Midwest Horse Fair®. This inspiring, educational competition, Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Equestrian Challenge, premiered in Ocala, Fl. in November of 2007 and has been blowing away audiences across North America ever since. In 2010 Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard are bringing their Wind Rider excitement to the Midwest Horse Fair®.

Bob & Suzanne’s Wind Rider Challenge is open to riders 14 years or older from all disciplines including western, dressage, hunter/jumpers, trail riders, natural horsemen, gaited horse riders and more. In the preliminary rounds up to 25 riders will compete with their own horses on a course that includes challenges drawn from gymkhana, dressage, reining patterns, jousting, gaited horse events, trail obstacles, cavalletti patterns, hunter/jumper courses, etc.

The cross disciplinary course will consist of a pattern including some (but not limited to): circles cantered on the correct lead with speed control, lead changes, a 2 foot jump, trotting or gaiting while balancing an object in one hand, backing through and around barrels, sidepassing, ground poles, balanced halts, turn on the haunches or turnarounds, leg yielding, open/close a gate, dragging objects, and a ring joust.

Honorable Guest Judges will score the riders

on their horsemanship, equitation, accuracy, and the horse’s attitude. Each rider will be given a time limit in which to complete the entire course; it will be up to each rider to decide how much time to devote to each specific challenge.

Points will be awarded for each challenge on a scale of 0 to 5, with 0 being the lowest and 5 being the highest, based on the combined performance of horse and rider. Judging will be based on accuracy, horse’s attitude, good horsemanship and excellence in equitation.

This is a competition where winners triumph not because of the bling on their saddles, or the breed of their horses, but because of the most important thing of all — the relationship between horse and rider.

For the final challenge round on Sunday, the three top scoring participants who rank as finalists will each be paired randomly with a different international star clinician to ride a new, more advanced course, and then a musical freestyle pas de deux that they have had less than 24 hours to prepare. The champion will win cash and prizes, including a one of a kind, custom-made Wind Rider Challenge saddle from Ortho-Flex Saddlery valued at over $6,300.

Framed certificates will be presented to the Wind Rider Grand Champion, the Wind Rider Reserve Champion, and Wind Rider Runner Up. Once the Midwest Horse Fair® Wind Rider

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

Championship is awarded to the highest point earner, he or she will return on Sunday afternoon to compete in the North American Wind Rider Grand Champion Show Down. The Midwest Horse Fair® Champion and Canada’s National Wind Rider Champion will ride like never before for cash, prizes and the North American Wind Rider Grand Champion title.

Bob & Suzanne’s unique horse training and teaching talents come together in their Two as One Horsemanship™, striking a perfect balance between the English and Western riding disciplines in a way that inspires equine enthusiasts worldwide.

To see just what the Wind Rider Challenge is all about go to TwoasOneHorsemanship.com and watch video clips of actual Wind Rider Challenges with some of the biggest superstars in the world of horses. For more information please visit TwoasOneHorsemanship.com, or call Suzanne Sheppard at (845) 692-7478.

April 2010 23

Dressage - English

B is for Balance!

By Tracy Porter I needed a good pair of eyes, someone that didn’t need glasses.

I also really didn’t want to spend the time working in a boring arena.

When my friend, Mary Monda Zdunic, invited me to come out to South Dakota this past summer, I knew I was in for a lot of work. None of it took place in a boring dressage arena! We rode miles and miles of rough and tough terrain. Using that terrain to build the bodies of our horses. We also did a lot of dam building when it was our turn to flood-irrigate the fields. I must say, I am a dam good builder! This article is dedicated to Mary, for without her help, I could not have written it. I would also like to thank Mr. Chuck Mom sits in saddle, checks if there Grant for his lifetime of work and is ample room behind her bum.

“American Dressage” So why would I have a problem with balance? Why wouldn’t I? I am human right? Well I confess, I always had impeccable balance.

That is until I had a horse crash and I shattered my C5 and C6. That pretty much ended my rein of balance queen. It took a lot for me to get back the simplest tasks.

Countless hours I spent trying to raise one leg, so I could stand on the other. It was very frustrating experience, the kind that makes you cry endlessly. Fortunately I lived by myself, so only the dogs and cats heard me wail. Well, God did too. I prayed and prayed to be my old self again. Thru that process, I learned a lot of lessons. And today, although I There should be at least the width am far from perfect, I think I am of your hand behind your bum. better for it. In my journey back, I have had lots of help, I could not do it on my own, Mary was my most recent helper. I should note that if it were not for my mother, Shirley May, and friend Ellen Rood, I would not be riding today. While I was taking heavy medication, they fought my insurance company to cover an experimental surgical procedure.

Not only was I able to heal without fusion, cadaver bones, plates and screws that were to be the surgical procedure in my case, but my outcome was so successful that the original doctor referred a dozen patients following my surgery. I was not just a case number, but the star guinea pig in my doctor’s medical documentation of my surgery. I had Here she sits in her Lazy Boy saddle! a grim prognosis…but an excellent Note how she is sitting back on the cantle, recovery. Here I am today riding, this also puts undue pressure on the walking and running again. I do owe kidneys. Also her legs shooting forward a big thank you to my horse. If it will not help her maintain balance should were not for a special Pinto Paso her horse make a sudden stop, change of Fino stallion I would not be riding direction or speed.

24 April 2010

today. Caz lifted me up and carried me along. When I tipped off he patiently waited for me to get back on. Anyone that truly wonders if God is producing miracles only has to know Caz and I. We are a miracle.

Now that I have laid my story out for you let’s move on!

Ever notice your horse doesn’t seem to change direction well? Do you feel that when you are going left, your horse is leaning so much to the left that you are sure your knee is going to touch the ground?

When you want or need to change directions, do you feel like you are in a plane flying thru turbulence? You know, choppy gait, stiffness in his mouth and feet? When you do change directions do you feel his feet speed up? Does he slip? Have you wondered if he is going to fall down? Well, if you notice any of the above…you horse is probably not in balance!

Before we begin an exercise to straighten your horse, how about a little self analysis? It is really unfair to blame him for being out of balance, if we aren’t in balance. Here are 4 basic concepts to keep in mind when you are striding along! I promised When mounting, check to make sure you are not pulling my mom if she let me use her for the photos, I your saddle to the side! would not show her face in any of them. Please put your thumb over her face when viewing…

THANKS! How do you fill your saddle? If you’re sitting and filling the cantle of your saddle it’s either too small for you or you’re sitting too far back! If your saddle has ample seat room you should be able to fit the width of your hand between your bum and the cantle. If Weighting the ball of the foot in the left stirrup. you can’t, you are either sitting too far back or your saddle is too small. Even though most folks sit in the saddle…riding IS an athletic sport. The saddle was not designed for sitting. To sit correctly, you want to hover* (American Dressage III) in the saddle having slight pressure in the stirrups on the balls of your feet. You can find your seat position without being on your horse. Stand evenly with your knees slightly bent. Notice that you can only do it if your feet are BELOW your upper body, the same holds true when you are in the saddle. This is the same athletic position that you would take if you were to play any sport.

Even though it is popular in the gaited world (and for a lot of trail riders) to sit in a chair position…it is not correct, in balance or helpful to your horse

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and anyone that says it is…is missing a lot of information.

When turning, where’s your weight When you are turning your horse are you weighting to your right when going to the right? Left when going to the left?

Sitting centered when you are going straight? If you don’t know, make a mental note to check.

You can also have a friend standing on the ground tell you!

Again, you don’t need to be on a horse to get the feel! If you are still standing feeling the saddle position, you are ready to weight! Slightly, put an ounce of weight in the ball of one of your feet. You are now in the frame to be turning that direction! When it is time to go straight, shift Weighting evenly, look at the that ounce back so you are even shoulders and the elbows. on both balls of your feet. When you want to go to the other direction…you got it…an ounce to that ball of the foot! Remember the pressure is straight, not pushing forward or backward!

What position are you holding the reins?

What kind of pressure do you have on them?

Your body should convey softness, not bracing. When turning your horse right, your Hands even, parallel to the ground, slight pulse, left hand should be like squeezing a sponge. forward of your right, so your horse can bend his head without hitting your outside hand! They should be even in height with a soft straight line from your elbow to the bit. Pressure…hmm that is an article all in itself.

Really, there is no pressure, when the slack is taken out of your reins, your horse should respond with no pulling or sitting in neutral. It is resistance whether he is sitting comfortable Socks gives to the sponge squeeze, look at the

Don’t raise reins

Mom takes her first ride on mY mustang!

without responding (zoning out), leaning on the reins or actively ripping them out of your hands.

If you find any of this happening, Watch for unevenness, while going left, this you really need to address this will throw horses weight on left shoulder! issue first before moving on.

Where are you looking? Are your eyes open or shut? Hopefully they are open and you are looking out forward to where you are riding. If you are turning left, it would be a good idea to be looking out, in advance, to the left. If you find you are looking down, believe it or not, the weight of your head creates more unbalanced weight for your horse to carry, making him heavier on his front end.

Spend some time in the saddle, then we’ll add some exercises that will help your horses balance! If you would like to see Caz and my special ride “The Little Paso Fino Stallion with the Huge Heart”, please Facebook me. You can see all our videos there in addition to this special one.

Life is too short to keep trading horses. If you find a horse you like, but have a few issues, instead of looking for new horse and falling into the same rut…why not look into where your communication is failing?

Learn how to create a successful life long partnership with your horse!

You will find a new found freedom when you and your horse are speaking the same language!

If you have any questions on training or you would like to be a part of a clinic or perhaps you would like to board your horse and become involved with ongoing lessons and training opportunities, please call 608-868-5432. or visit www.Tracy-Porter.net. I’d love to help you and your horse be the best of friends and enjoy the same relationship that I do with mine!

Until next time, may you always…Ride Straight!

nice soft line from elbow to bit.

Don’t push down on reins

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 25

Dressage - English

www.horsedigests.com

y r Mary Hamilton a M k As

answers your training questions!

Ask Mary: What are some ideas for a spring tune-up for my trail riding horse?

It’s time to dust off that saddle and prepare for a new season of trail riding. Before you hit the trail, make sure you and your horse are prepared.

Here are some training tips to prepare you both for a safe and fun trail riding season.

First, look over your equipment. Is your horse trailer tuned up and ready to haul? Check your tack. Look for damage, like rotted leather and rusty snaps. Repair or replace any items that might break out on the trail. Check that your saddle still fits your horse. Once that winter hair sheds we often have a different horse than the trail fit horse we rode last fall.

Are your spring veterinary needs completed?

That includes a current coggins, worming and vaccinations. Are your horse’s feet trimmed and shod if necessary. Don’t stress out and wait until

26 April 2010

the last minute to schedule these appointments.

Before you mount up spend some time on ground work. This is a safer way to check your horse’s obedience then throwing a leg over and having him gallop off with you. Put him in a round pen or on a lunge line to begin. Send him around a few times to burn off any excess energy. Once he has settled down, work on obedience. Use the verbal commands, walk, trot, and canter. Your goal is to have your horse stay in the gait and the direction you indicate until you change commands. Once your horse is listening to you and obeying your verbal cues its time to check his ground manners. Attach a lead rope to his halter (a rope halter works best for this exercise).

Standing at his shoulder put a little pressure on the lead rope. Your horse should bend his head toward you and give to the pressure. Now reach back and apply finger pressure to his barrel to move the hindquarters. He should step sideways.

As soon as he does, release the pressure and reward him with a pat. Repeat this drill several times on both sides. Your goal is a soft responsive horse that gives and won’t pull back when we apply pressure to the reins or his flank.

When your horse is comfortable and relaxed for the ground exercises, it’s time to mount up.

Before heading down the trail it’s important to make sure you have brakes and steering control.

It’s safest to do this in a controlled space like an arena or pasture with good footing. Make sure that you can stop your horse, by doing a series of walk to halt transitions. Walk a few steps then stop for a few seconds, walk a few steps then halt and repeat this pattern. When that is going well, try some trot to walk transitions. Remember to reward your horse for listening to you and stopping. Set up a cone course to navigate through.

The cones give you a visual aid for your turns.

Set up a line of cones about 2 horse lengths apart from one another. At the walk, ride a serpentine through the cones. Make you get a good bend and fluid changes when changing directions.

When you are proficient at the walk try it at the trot. Then back your horse through the course.

Before that first big trail ride consider conditioning your horse. Start with short rides around the barn and gradually increase your ride times until you are both ready for that long ride out on the trail.

A little extra time and proper preparation will help ensure a positive experience for your first spring trail ride. Plus it will give you the confidence to enjoy your ride instead of worrying if you can control your horse.

Mary is a Mounted Police instructor and a fully insured ARICP riding instructor. She devotes her creative energy to developing customized training programs to improve show ring performance, mount obedience and despooking trail horses utilizing training methods used in training police horses. Visit her Website at www.riderselite.com or email your questions to mary@riderselite.com

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

Equine Dictionary Endurance ride - The end result when your horse spooks and runs away with you in the woods.

Equitation - The ability to keep a smile on your face and proper posture while your horse tries to crowhop, shy and buck his way around a show ring.

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 27

www.horsedigests.com Be the Rider Your Horse Deserves

Golden Rules of Ground Training,

Training Commands Continued Part 6 PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING‘

by Lynn Palm Time spent on ground training will pay big rewards as your horse learns to respond precisely without pressure, tugging, or pulling.

Always make sure your horse is outfitted with a properly fitting halter, a longe line or lead rope, and leg protection. I like using a longe line because its length gives more flexibility to move with your horse and still remain in contact.

Begin in a confined location free of distractions and familiar to your horse, such as a stall.

Continue to practice the commands, graduating to less confined locations until you can get consistent responses anywhere you ask your horse. If your horse does not understand or is inconsistent in his responses, go back to a more secure location and repeat the lesson there.

Teaching the “Back” Command Backing is an excellent exercise to improve communication with your horse. For this lesson, I prefer to use the longe line over the nose for more control. Thread the longe line through the halter ring on the side you are working on, over the nose, clipping it on the ring on the opposite side of the halter. Make sure that the snap faces outward. I like my Palm Partnership Halter because, unlike other halters, the rings are designed large enough to allow a lead or longe to easily fit through them. Excess longe line should be held in a loose, but organized neat coil.

A horse can best perform this maneuver when he is straight and balanced. Position him alongside a wall or fence to help keep him straight when starting this maneuver.

Stand at your horse’s near (left) side, approximately one foot away from him. Turn and face your horse so that you are slightly in front and off the side of his left shoulder. Never stand directly in front of any horse. It is an unsafe position and a common error when teaching this maneuver.

Direct your vision to focus on the horse’s

28 April 2010

entire topline, from his head to the top of his tail. Avoid looking down at the horse’s feet as this prevents you from seeing his responses and body position.

With the coiled longe in your right hand, lightly place your hand on the left side of your horse’s halter at the chin piece (the part of the halter that goes underneath the head).

Remember, if you control the horse’s head, you control his body position. Your contact will only be used to guide the head and neck to keep them straight in the middle of the shoulders and in alignment with the spine.

Using a deep, commanding tone say “back” as you apply light pressure on the halter and move toward your horse’s shoulder.

Use your contact on the halter to keep his head straight. Do not pull on the halter or the lead to force him to move. The instant your horse takes a step backward, step with him. Release the pressure as you ask him to stop using the “whoa” command. Praise him with a stroke on his forehead or a pet.

If your horse does not respond, re-evaluate your position; reposition him by walking him forward. You don’t need to turn around, just back up a few steps as you continue to face him, and ask him to back again. Add a little reinforcement by pressing your right hand on the point of his shoulder to encourage him to step backward.

Keep contact on the point of his shoulder using either a steady pressure or soft pulsating contact that varies in pressure with the timing of the horse lifting his legs to step backwards.

Avoid using a tap or slap, which will only frustrate or aggravate your horse. The instant that he makes an effort to move backward, praise him.

As he learns the verbal cues, eliminate this guiding pressure and the touch on the halter.

Soon he will respond and back up with only your voice command. Once he can consistently back several steps along the wall, ask him to back from the middle of the stall. This will be more challenging because you will not have the wall to help keep him straight.

The tendency for most horses is to swing their hindquarters out of the desirable straightline alignment when backing. To correct hindquarter alignment problems, you must react quickly to slightly reposition the horse’s head in the same direction that his hindquarters are moving to re-align his body. For example, if your horse’s hindquarters swing out to the left as he is backing, respond with a light tension on the lead, and reposition his head slightly to the left as he continues to step backwards. This will cause him to move his hindquarters to the right, straightening his body.

If your horse gets too far out of alignment,

ask him to walk forward a few steps to straighten his body. Stop, reposition, and ask for the maneuver again. Focus on keeping his head straight as you ask him to back. Watch his topline to anticipate and respond to alignment problems as they happen.

Vary your “back” command with the “come to me” command so that your horse doesn’t associate your presence at his shoulder with a reaction to back up. Once he consistently responds to your command to back on his near side, repeat the lesson on his off (right) side.

Moving the Hindquarters This command is a variation of the “move away” command. It teaches the horse to move his hindquarters, rather than his shoulder, away from pressure. Start by stroking your horse along his barrel and hip. These are the areas where you will be applying gentle pressure to ask for the maneuver.

When he is comfortable with this contact, stand at the middle of your horse and extend your left hand so that you have a light contact on his halter. Slightly turn his head towards you while you extend your right hand and apply gentle pressure on his hip and give a “cluck.” He should move his hindquarters away from you.

Follow his movement and praise him when you get this response.

If he needs more reinforcement, use a gentle give and take tension on his halter to very slightly turn his head towards you at the same time you are applying pressure to his hip. The instant he responds by moving his hips away from you, praise him. Once he understands this command, your goal is to work towards keeping his body straight while moving his hindquarters.

Make sure that you are not getting the horse to move by applying too much pressure on the halter. The cue for this maneuver is done on his hindquarters, not his halter. Resist the tendency to pull on the halter or the shank of the lead.

Learn how to build a partnership with your horse from the ground up with Palm Partnership Training?. Ground training is covered in detail in my Longevity Training Series, and each maneuver is demonstrated with several young horses.

You can order this series and other helpful training products at www.lynnpalm.com or by calling 800-503-2824.

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 29

www.horsedigests.com The Making of a New Kind of Saddle

The Story Behind Ansur Saddles Ansur Saddlery, LLC and Northwestern Saddlery, LLC is owned by Don and Carole Weidner, who bring years of combined experience to their saddle making companies.

With a wealth of financial, sales and customer service experience under her belt, Carol also has earned national dressage championships with her horse :”Bronze” from the Morgan Horse Association and the USDF. Don has over 40 years of organizational management and operations experience as a city manager in five different cities, each a step up in size and responsibility, and he also created and operated his own highly successful water technology business.

They also operated a modest breeding operation from 1991 through 2004, raising Morgan horses and Dutch Warmbloods and you would always see a couple of brood mares and their babies grazing in their fields.

Over 10 years ago they combined their talents to make a winning team and a unique product line, producing Treeless Flex Core English saddles under the name Ansur Saddlery, LLC. Carol started the operation and when it became more than full time for her Don joined in the operation and is now Vice President.

These saddles enhanced performance and were pain-free for both horse and rider. The saddles are very popular and thousands have been sold. In response to an ever increasing interest from western riders they created Northwestern Saddlery, LLC and designed and produced a treeless Flex Core traditional western saddle.

The tale behind the creation of their successful saddle lines is the real story though and begins with Carol and the innocent purchase of a dressage prospect 18 years ago. Her qualifications for this purchase were simple, and she says “quite stupid”. She wanted a quiet horse with a willing temperament and good size because she knew dressage horses were big.

Carol found her ”dressage prospect” at Mountain View Morgans in Ridgefield, Washington. His name was Mountain View Bronze and his hooves were very big, Deciding that large hooves must mean a big adult horse, Carol bought him. He did mature to be 16.2 hands high. He was shown at halter and taught to drive as a youngster. When he was four Carol rode him every weekend in the nearby Cascade Mountains, but she will tell you he was the clumsiest thing on four legs, growing so fast he just could not handle himself.

At home he was full of shenanigans and escapades and neighbors were always watching him and taking pictures. Many commented that

30 April 2010

they could not believe Carol rode him.

Life changed suddenly for Carol, Christmas Eve of 1992, when she learned she had breast cancer. 12 days later she underwent a double mastectomy. and two weeks after that, against her doctors orders she rode Bronze.

With help from friends and a ladder Carol mounted the tall equine and was able to manage a walk, trot and even a canter. Carol will tell you that that was “A bright day for her and a

beautiful feeling” even though life was hanging in the balance. But riding became her therapy and she scheduled her cancer treatments around riding.

She often wondered how she would get through another day, Riding was her answer and Carol will tell you that “physical healing can take place when there are other things to think of”.

Carol and Bronze ended up having a banner show season that year, winning awards from both the USDF and the American Morgan Horse Association and after that year Bronze went into intensive training in preparation for the FEI dressage competition. As work progressed Bronze began to change though, and what once was a horse with intense concentration and work ethic changed to a horse that began showing resistance to advanced work. In some cases he actually regressed. He would brace his back and suck his back into his withers, wring his tail and he began to change and be argumentative when asked to do movements he had already mastered.

All of Carols different fixes, from custom fit saddles to different bits and all the other usual types of fixes did not work. Vet exams and tests showed he was in excellent condition and chiropractor, equine therapists and other various specialists produced no evidence of unsoundness or problems. The only problem that was noticeable was when he was asked to carry a load. Changing riders did not make a difference.

So. in desperation, the decision was made to take off the “custom fit” saddle and try a simple

bareback pad. SURPRISE! The change was immediate and Bronze began to do all the correct movements he had been taught, with no resistance, no hollowing of the back or swishing of the tail, no pinning of his ears. He even offered moves that Carol did not know he understood.

So here was our answer, but the problem was what to do about competitions, which required a saddle. There began the quest for a competition saddle that Bronze would accept.

How does one develop a show legal saddle that would not constrict Bronze’s movements?

Visiting a local saddler and laying out the entire problem resulted in an agreement to help develop and construct an English style, totally soft saddle. Through much testing and trial and error, each layer was tested on Bronze, until finally Bronze decided he had the saddle that he had been asking for. The second step was to make the saddle comfortable for Carol, so again each layer was tested, only this time by Carol, the rider.

Unknown, at the time, to Carol and Don, this was the beginning of a saddle company. Questions were abundant at the first competition the pair went to with their new saddle.

There was a great deal of interest in why Bronze had taken such a huge leap in his performance.

What had changed? What had they done to this horse?

Other riders began asking questions about the saddle when they found out about it and as a result of this interest the saddle was tested on many other horses. When it became clear that practically all the horses tested in the new saddle performed better and were more willing to work, it also became clear to Carol that this saddle was more than a quirky indulgence on Carols part and a saddle company was born.

Of course there is much more to this story, but Ansur saddle is the result of a horse and rider partnership that goes beyond what many of us experience. Bronze gave his rider the will to conquer a serious illness and he earned her great love.

Today Ansur Saddlery, LLC also has a sister company, Northwestern Saddlery, LLC, that manufactures a western version of the Flex Core saddle.

For more information you can visit their website at www.ansursaddle.com - the site for their English saddles and www.nwsaddle.com the site for their western saddles. You can also contact: Carole Weidner 800 987 1545 or carole@nwsaddle.com

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 31

www.horsedigests.com

NUTRENA® BRAND NAMED OFFICIAL FEED SPONSOR OF THE UNITED STATES DRESSAGE FEDERATION The United States Dressage Federation has named Nutrena® the official feed sponsor of the federation. The three-year agreement makes Nutrena® the official horse feed of USDF. “This new sponsorship broadens our support of the dressage community,” said Deb Correll, marketing services manager for Nutrena® feeds. “We look forward to helping USDF members achieve their performance goals, and provide them with the latest information and innovation regarding equine preventative care and nutrition.”

USDF is the country’s only nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the promotion of dressage, with a focus on education. “It’s that education element that makes Nutrena® a great sponsor,” said Linda Schultz, director of marketing for USDF. “Not only does the Nutrena® brand offer quality products, but their consultants are also committed to educating horse owners.”

Dressage champion and Olympic medalist Debbie McDonald has fed her horses Nutrena® products for more than six years. She says that optimum nutrition is vital for horses to develop, stay healthy and perform.

“I continue to be pleased with the way my horses look and feel, and the education I’ve received from their consultants is amazing,” McDonald said. “I am excited that they are the official feed for USDF, and I hope members take advantage of Nutrena® brand products and expertise.”

Using the highest-quality ingredients and the most up-to-date nutritional technology, Cargill manufactures and markets a complete line of Nutrena® brand feeds and supplements that help horses maintain optimal health throughout all stages of life. For more information, visit www.nutrenaworld.com.

About USDF: Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org or e-mail usdressage@usdf.org or call (859) 971-227.

About Cargill: A business unit of Cargill, Incorporated, Cargill Animal Nutrition (www.cargillanimalnutrition.com) is a customerfocused organization working to bring product and service solutions to producers. Cargill is an international producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial and industrial products and services. Founded in 1865, the privately held company employs 159,000 people in 68 countries. Cargill helps customers succeed through collaboration and innovation, and is committed to applying its global knowledge and experience to help meet economic, environmental and social challenges wherever it does business.

For more information, visit www.cargill.com.

32 April 2010

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

Minnesota Thoroughbred Association Announces its Sale Dates for 2010 Shakopee, MN – The Minnesota Thoroughbred Association has announced its sale dates for 2010. The 3rd Annual Upper Midwest Two Year Olds and Unraced Thoroughbreds in Training sale will be held at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota on Saturday, May 15, 2010. The Under Tack Show will be conducted on Friday, May 14, 2010, at noon with the sale beginning following the races on Saturday, at 6:30 p.m.

Join the MTA on August 7th for the 2010 MTA Yearling Sale. This event is also held at Canterbury Park and begins with a Parade of Yearlings at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, August 6th. The Sale is held on Saturday evening, August 7th, following the races at approximately 6:30 p.m.

The MTA is proud to offer these exciting opportunities for our consignors and purchasers to “Get in the Game” by purchasing top-quality Thoroughbreds for your stable! We look forward to seeing you there! Details will be available on our website at www.mtassoc.com!

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

April 2010 33

Performance Horses

sit down and say “whoa” and back my horse up a step. I don’t want to discourage my horse from following. However, I need him to know that we can and will stop any time I choose. After I stop and back up, I’ll sit for as long as I feel is necessary. Then I’ll trot or lope right back to horse to catch up. If the cow travels faster you the cow and track it some more. Stopping can accelerate into a lope and follow right in when the cow and horse are straight is important behind. if I expect my horse to stop well. If my horse is Depending on your horse’s temperament, bent or crooked it will be difficult to stop with any this activity might get him excited. Having your kind of correctness. horse properly prepared before the cattle workYou don’t have any cows? You can play ing session is extremely important. That means this same game with a friend on horseback. you will trot and lope your horse as much as nec- Except for acclimating your horse to a cow many essary during a warm up period. You of the benefits Whether it is in competition, practical ranch want a horse that is physically and are the same. work, or strictly for pleasure, cow work can be mentally warmed up and prepared Regardless of your an exciting activity for you and your horse. before you start this extra curricular goals, this experiWhat is your horse’s attitude toward cows? Is activity. ence can make Some horsyour horse scared, curious, you a better rider es will get over uninterested or somewhere in and your horse a zealous and between? This article will outline better ride! For attempt to lunge how I like to introduce my horses footage to compliat, bite, or strike to cattle and begin to create an ment this article: a cow while folinterest in their minds about the Google “YouTube lowing. You need work.

– Richard Winters to feel what’s This is the level of control I ultimately Follow-the-leader: One horse, Horsemanship going on and nip one cow, and one pen is a great Channel” desire to achieve. this in the bud. If way to start. Horses are natural you feel your horse get too followers. You don’t have to have Richard Winters Horsemanship Biography aggressive, take hold of a pure bred cow horse to teach For nearly three decades Richard has dedithe reins and check him cated himself to honing his horsemanship skills this concept. I’ve watched back. You might even and to passing this knowledge onto others. His Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Warmneed to stop him firmly, vast experience includes starting literally hunbloods, and generic grade horses show interest and expression as I want to follow directly behind the cow take a step back, and then dreds of horses that have gone onto almost every on a loose rein. proceed again. they began to play follow-theequine discipline imaginable.

As your horse leader with a single cow.

Richard’s credentials include World follows the cow Championship titles in the National Reined The idea is to simply follow around the arena, Cow Horse Association along with being an A directly behind the cow wherever it try to guide him as rated judge. In 2007 Richard was named goes. If the cow speeds up, slows little as possible. champion of the West Coast Equine Experience down, or changes directions, I want Keep your reins “$10,000 Colt Starting Challenge.” He was also my horse to do the same. I will loose and allow presented with the 2007 Monty Roberts direct my horse as much as necesyour horse to take Equitarian Award for outstanding achievements sary but I’ll try to do as little as responsibility for in Horse/Human relationships. Richard was also possible. The heavier I hang onto following. If your honored to be named champion in the 2009 the reins, the less my horse will be horse wanders off Road to the Horse - Colt Starting Challenge in able to “hook” onto and become track, simply re- Nashville, TN. In July of 2009 Richard won the interested in the cow. In these early lessons I’m not concerned This filly is taking the responsibility to follow direct him back to Super Cow Horse competition in Santa Ynez, the cow around to the right. the cow and then CA. Most recently he competed in Road to the with driving the cow in any specific loosen your reins. direction. I am simply directing my Horse 2010.

Teaching your horse to track a cow has many horse along the same track the cow is on.

Much of Richard’s work has been accomThis game of follow-the-leader will capitalize direct and fringe benefits. If your goal is to have plished through the numerous clinics he conducts on your horse’s natural curiosity and increase his a competitive or practical cow working horse around the country. He also enjoys being a guest confidence. Attempting to step up into a herd is this is the first step. This game also gets you and presenter at various Horse Expo’s. very intimidating if your horse is unsure or scared your horse traveling free at different speeds in Richard, along with his wife Cheryl, reside in of cattle. Yet, in this exercise, when your horse all gaits. Teaching your horse to speed up and Ojai, California, at the historic Thacher School realizes the cow is yielding away from him, it’s a then slow down while following the cow will where he currently serves as artist-in-residence. help him get comfortable with speed without You can view Richard Winters Horsemanship big confidence booster.

You need to be careful that you don’t overrun falling apart emotionally. programming on Dish Network Channel 9411 on After I have introduced this game to my Sunday’s and Wednesday’s at 6:00 P. M. (PST). the cow. However, you need to ride up close enough so that your horse is engaged with the horse and he is showing some interest, I’ll add For more information about Richard Winters cow and begins to realize that his job is to follow. periodic stops. I will look for an opportunity when Horsemanship please go to If the cow trots off, you should encourage your the cow and my horse are on a straight line, I’ll www.wintersranch.com.

34 April 2010

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid, Silica, Yucca and Devils Claw are significant to joint health

Not all nutritional joint products are created equal. The grade of the raw ingredients, the potency and formula combination are just a few of the important facts that will determine the product’s effectiveness. Jack Grogan, Certified Nutritionist and Chief Science Officer for Uckele Health & Nutrition, has developed several formulas that work strategically for horses with joint issues specific to their ages and activity levels, “Important research regarding joint structure and natural supplements has shown that Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid, Silica, Yucca and Devils Claw are significant to joint health. Knowing what these nutrients are, and how they perform in the body will provide you with the tools you need to make educated choices when addressing your horse’s joint issues.”

Uckele Health & Nutrition has devised several formulas that address a wide range of joint injury causes, condition specific issues, and their relationship to age and activity levels. “By far, our product Arthroxigen is one of the most complex blends of joint support ingredients available in the market right now,” Grogan says, “It’s a potent combination of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Devil’s Claw, Hyaluronic Acid, and Yucca. What really places it front and center is it’s antioxidant strength. It contains over 10 different dried fruits, Grape Seed Extract, Vitamin C, Hydrolyzed Collagen, turmeric, Cats Claw, and White Willow.”

Grogan strongly feels that the most important of all the joint nutraceuticals is Glucosamine, “It is

the key building block for tissue integrity, with studies showing that Glucosamine supplementation provides symptomatic relief for pain, more rapid recovery, and partial restoration of joint function.” The two forms of glucosamine in pure form, hydrochloride and sulfate, deliver equally effective amounts of glucosamine. However, the ideal form of glucosamine is hydrochloride, the advantage being that it contains approximately 25 – 30% more pure glucosamine for considerably less cost.

“Chondroitin Sulfate is the primary substance found in cartilage,” Grogan explains, “Its key functions include the ability to inhibit enzymes that degrade cartilage tissue, decrease water retention for synovial fluid production and the ability to utilize glucosamine in the formation of proteoglycans.” Proteolglycans organize collegen and water binding to give cartilage its desired flexibility, resiliency and resistance. Chondroitin sulfate has also shown the ability to activate chondrocytes, which produce new collagen.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is found naturally in food and throughout the body. A bio-available source of sulfur, MSM is important for connective tissue production and repair and has been shown to reduce cartilage breakdown by protecting the cartilage tissue. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is also found throughout the body, with the highest concentration in soft connective tissue.

HA gives elasticity to the joints and retains water in the cellular matrix. It is important for tissue

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

hydration, lubrication, and proper cellular function.

Grogan points out that many herbs and botanical extracts have shown great promise in supporting joint health, “Yucca Schidigera Extract, Devils Claw Extract, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Turmeric Extract, Cat’s Claw, Fever Few, White Willow and Cayenne have proven to be a powerful group of joint supporting plants.”

Jack Grogan, CN, has worked extensively in the fields of biology, biochemistry and nutrition, is an expert in tissue mineral balancing, and has experienced notable success in balancing mineral chemistry to strengthen the basic metabolism and improve efficiency in horses.

Uckele Health & Nutrition has built a reputation over 50 years creating a broad spectrum of nutritional supplements from concept to shelf, also providing private labeling and custom manufacturing for reputable companies and organizations worldwide. With decades of nutritional knowledge and experience, Uckele’s team of experts develop, formulate and manufacture a vast array of high potency, balanced nutritional supplements to support optimal health and performance at the highest level.

April 2010 35

www.horsedigests.com formance over time. Products higher in fat are also a great way to increase caloric density without the risk of starch overload (defined in the following paragraph). Often these products allow you to feed less of the feed portion of the diet and more hay. One example is Farr XTN™, which is 12% fat and completely balanced to be fed at a lower rate than most grain or pelleted rations. A similar advantage can be accomplished by choosing a moderately high fat feed such as Safe Choice™ at 7% fat and adding 1-3#/day of a high fat extruded supplement such as Empower™ which is 22% fat. Caution should be made to choose a supplement that is balanced so that when added to an already balanced diet it keeps the nutrient to calorie ratio in check. Adding plain soy or corn oil to a balanced diet will unbalance the nutrient to calorie ratio.

Often performance horses are fed high grain diets in large quantities. Many times these horses are constantly at risk because of high levels of grain feeding which causes a starch overload of the small intestine resulting in starch leaking into the cecum. The cecum and large colon house a bacterial and protozoal population that do the work of digesting fiber.

When starch enters the cecum the pH drops resulting in death of this bacterial population. This results in a cascade of events that may result in colic, laminitis and in some cases death. When horses eat an amount of a high starch feed that is equivalent to .4-.5% of bodyweight per meal there is a risk of starch entering the cecum.

This translates into four to five (4-5) pounds per meal on a 1000-pound horse. By using a diet higher in fat you are able to feed more pounds per meal safely. It should also be noted that starch is required in the diet for glycogen repletion, so feeding a diet too low in starch may also cause problems. Talk with your qualified equine nutrition consultant to learn more. As always, any change in diet should be made slowly over a 710 day period. Benefits from changing to a higher fat diet typically take at least three weeks.

Another thought to ponder when choosing your performance horse’s feed is complete balancing. While there may be many 12% protein feeds on the market, there are marked differences between them all. Examine the feed tag for guaranteed levels of amino acids lysine, methionine and threonine. These are the first three limiting amino acids in the horse’s diet and ensure that you are feeding a quality source of protein to get the muscle recovery you need. One 12% protein feed may build a great topline on your horse and the other may simply not work at all. You may also check to see if your feed already contains many of the nutrients and supplements you were planning to top dress. Feeds like Safe Choice™ already contain organic trace minerals, yeast cultures, probiotics, and biotin.

Why pay for a supplement when the nutrients have already been added at a balanced level for you?

Even in the “off season” you should be sure to have your horse on a balanced diet as building up mineral levels in their system may take months to replace. Choose a completely balanced feed that is moderate in fat and feed at a Maintenance level for this time of year, but do not sacrifice the quality nutrients they deserve.

Abby Keegan, M.S., Nutrena®

Performance Horse Nutrition . Performance horses are sometimes classified as any horse being worked harder than just standing in the pasture these days. While this isn’t exactly the definition of a performance horse, it can be a thought in some owner’s minds. The performance horse we will focus on is one that is worked at a higher heart rate and at least 3 hours/week with which most work is at an extended trot or canter.

The first and most important part of any performance horse’s diet is forage. Ideally this portion of the diet should be at a bare minimum 1% of the horse’s bodyweight, but more preferably 1.5% of bodyweight. So if you have a 1000pound gelding, he would need 15#/ day of good quality hay or pasture for the forage portion of his diet as a starting point. Horses being worked should be fed a good quality forage that is higher in caloric content to meet their additional energy expenditures. Choosing hay that is softer in texture/finer stemmed, free of weeds and mold, and

36 April 2010

contains more leaves than stems will typically result in higher caloric content. Ideally you should have your hay tested to determine its true value.

Depending on the ingredients and technology, performance horses can be fed textured, extruded or pelleted diets if properly formulated.

Be sure to carefully read the feed tag for the proper amount to feed of that particular product.

Ideally a product higher in fat should be chosen for several reasons: improvement in endurance, heat tolerance, hair coat improvement and maybe improvement in attitude. Horses on high fat diets experience increased endurance because of a glycogen sparing effect that occurs.

Glycogen actually is the fuel for muscular activity that is stored in the muscle cells and horses that are on high fat diets conserve glycogen allowing them to finish a performance event stronger. This is particularly important in polo, racing, eventing, cutting and other activities that require high per-

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The perfect place to advertise your Stable, Training Facility, Events, Stallions and more...

Great Value, Great Exposure... both in print and online!

Call Mark or Peg - 507-943-3355 mark@horsdigests.com peg@horsedigests.com

Thoroughbred Trainer, Carl Nafzger, to be Guest Speaker at annual MNTA Awards Banquet The Minnesota Thoroughbred Association is pleased to announce that Thoroughbred Trainer, Carl Nafzger, will be the guest speaker at its annual Awards Banquet scheduled for April 17, 2010. Mr. Nafzger trained the 1990 Kentucky Derby winner, Unbridled, for Minnesota owner, Frances Genter. Street Sense took the Kentucky Derby title in 2007 also under the guidance of Mr. Nafzger. A 2008 National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame Inductee, as well as a member of the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, Mr. Nafzger has also authored a book entitled “Traits of a Winner”.

The evening’s festivities will also include the presentation of awards to the outstanding Minnesota-bred and Minnesota-owned equine athletes as well as owners and breeders who have accomplished great things in the past year. The 2010 MTA Awards Banquet will be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Reservations for this special event are required. Details may be found on our website at www.mtassoc.com or by calling the MTA office at 952-496-3770.

Equine Dictionary Barn Sour - An affliction common to horse people in northern climates during the winter months. Trudging through deep snow, pushing wheelbarrows through snow and beating out frozen water buckets tend to bring on this condition rapidly.

38 April 2010

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Suzanne Sheppard’s Versatility Signature Saddle Give Away!

Two as One Horsemanship team of Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard and Orthoflex Saddleworks Inc. are combining to celebrate versatility in 2010!

We are pleased to announceAt the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair, attendees will have a free chance to win the Orhto-Flex versatility saddle right off the back of Suzanne’s beautiful AQHA horse, Distinctly Tuff.

Throughout the 2010 Midwest Horse Fair, individuals who attend any of Bob & Suzanne’s seminars or clinics will receive a free ticket for a chance to win! This is no cheap giveaway, as it is Suzanne’s gorgeous signature Versatility saddle, designed by Orthoflex and to her demanding specifications; to be comfortable and balanced for horse & rider whether performing dressage, taking jumps, or even on the trail. The saddle has a new value of $3,400 but is well broken-in by Suzanne and ready to rumble.

“Bob and I are so excited about coming back to the Midwest Horse Fair to hold not only clinics, but also our cross disciplinary competition, the Wind Rider Challenge! When our Wind Rider Challenge participation sold out in just a few weeks, we knew we had to do something big to thank the great horse people in Wisconsin for their enthusiasm and support. When Acie Johnson, owner of Orthoflex Saddleworks came up with the idea of a free raffle for my versatility saddle, we thought it was brilliant!” says Suzanne.

“Bob and Suzanne have created a challenge worthy of the Midwest Horse Fair and of the CanAm North American Wind Rider Champion Show Down. Their enthusiasm is contagious and, at the 2009 Midwest Horse Fair, they had the seminar attendees on their feet. We all wanted to encourage another full house as they bring this must-see challenge to Madison”, says Acie Johnson.

Remember- each audience member who attends any of our clinics or seminars at the Midwest Horse Fair gets a free ticket, for each session attended! Attend more clinics and get more chances to win this great saddle. The winning ticket will be drawn at Bob & Suzanne’s booth (in the lobby) on Sunday afternoon, time to be announced. To see the clinics and seminar schedule, go to www.MidwestHorseFair.com. To learn more about Orthoflex Saddleworks visit www.ortho-flex.com. To catch the enthusiasm and find out how Bob and Suzanne teach people to bring out the best in their horses, go to www.TwoasOneHorsemanship.com

"Some horses are so polite that when they come to a fence, they stop and let you go over first."

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Call for Entries to the Inspiring Horsemanship Event at 2010 Holistic Horse Fair The Inspiring Horsemanship Event announces a call for entries to its inaugural program at the 2010 Holistic Horse Fair (HHF)m held September 25-26 at The Horse First Farm in Brooklyn, WI. Through a non-competitive performance, the Inspiring Horsemanship Event (IHE) brings together the most skilled and harmonious horse and human pairs to beautifully demonstrate just how much gentle and respectful horsemanship can accomplish. A handful of the most inspiring entries will be selected to perform and be eligible for prizes.

Have you reached an extraordinary level of partnership with your horse? Can you demonstrate harmony, skill and willingness in a 5 to 10 minute performance? If you feel your relationship with your horse can inspire others than you are invited to bring your talents to this event. The IHE is currently accepting video entries for the 2010 performance at the Holistic Horse Fair. Entries may demonstrate ground skills, mounted work or a combination of both. For complete details go to www.holistichorsefair.com and click on the Inspiring Horsemanship link.

The Holistic Horse Fair informs horse lovers of the many natural and holistic horse care and training methods that exist through a fun and exciting weekend fair. Watch demonstrations, speak with professionals, and shop vendors whom offer information specifically about natural, alternative and complementary methods of caring for and training horses. Information will be presented on such topics as acupuncture, massage and body work, animal communication, herbs, natural hoof care, natural nutrition, horse-friendly forms of horsemanship and training, and more.

Potential vendors, sponsors and speakers are invited to contact the HHF about participating or sponsoring the Inspired Horsemanship Event.

Vvisit the event’s website: www.holistichorsefair.com, and contact Heather Kitching at (608)687-9534 or eaglevalleyequestrian@yahoo.com to learn more.

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Trail Horse

READY-TO-RIDE GUIDE ILLINOIS - Trail Rides 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Bay Creek Wilderness Rides, Shawnee National Forest, Simpson, IL.; 618-695-2670 www.baycreekranch.com Bear Ranch Horse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; Shawnee National Forest, 618-672-4249, www.bearbranch.com Cedar Lake Ranch, LLC, Vienna, IL.; 618-695-2600, www.cedarlakeranchllc.com Circle B Ranch HOrse Camp, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4748, www.circlebranch.com Double M Campground, Junction, IL.; 618-275-4440, www.doublemcampground.com Jim Edgar Panther Creek, IL.; 217-452-7741 Little Lusk Trail Lodge, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-672-4303 One Horse Gap Trail Ride, New Hope Hill, IL.; 618-264-7433, www.onehorsegap.com York Hills Horse Park, Albion, 260-564-0305, www.yorkhillshorsepark.com Riding Vacations 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141 www.34ranch.com Hayes Canyon Campground, Eddyville, IL.; 618-672-4751 www.hayescanyon.com Overnight Stabling 34 Ranch & Camp, Herod, IL. 618-264-2141, www.34ranch.com Public Lands Argle Lake State Park, Colchester, IL.; 309-776-3422 Big River State Forest, Keithsburg, IL.; 309-374-2496 Chain Lakes State Park, Spring Grove, IL.; 847-587-5512 Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, DeWitt, IL.; 217-935-8722 Fox Ridge State Park, Charleston, IL.

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217-345-6416 Giant CityState Park, Makanda, IL.; 618-457-4836 Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, Sheffield, IL.; 815-454-2328 Kankakee River State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-933-1383 Lake Le-Aqua-Ne State Park, Bourbonnais, IL.; 815-369-4282 MatthiessenState Park, Utica, IL.; 815-667-4868 Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area, Collison, IL.; 217-442-4915 Moraine View State Park, Leroy, IL.; 309-724-8043 Newton Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, Newton, IL.; 618-783-3478 Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, IL.; 618-786-2156 Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park, IL.; 815-885-3311 Shawnee National Forest, Harrisburg, IL.; 618-253-7114 Weinbrg-King State Park, Augusta, IL.; 217-392-2345

IOWA - Trail Rides Amana Trail Ride, Amana Colonies, Amana, IA.; 319-462-2206, www.amanatrailride.com Natural Gait, Harpers Ferry, IA, 877-776-2208, www.thenaturalgail.com, ntrlgait@acegroup.cc Overnight Stabling Aunt Reba’s Bed and Breakfast, Larchwood, MN.; 712-478-4042 or 888-282-5349: www.auntrebas.com Iowa Bunkhouse, Audubon, IA.; May-September: 712-773-2737 JM4 Rand, Arena, Horse Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Crescent, IA.; 712-328-7593, www.JM4Ranch.com Lewis Bottom Farms, Shellsburg, IA.; 319-436-3323, www.lewisbottomsfarms.com Natural Gait, Harpers Ferry, IA, 877-776-2208, www.thenaturalgail.com, ntrlgait@acegroup.cc

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READY-TO-RIDE GUIDE River Valley Horsecamp, Farmington, 319-8783888, www.rivervalleyhorsecamp.com, info@rivervalleyhorsecamp.com MINNESOTA - Trail Rides Bush Wacker Trail Ride Club, Huntersville Fall Trail Ride, Huntersville, MN.; 218-894-0056 Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com Overnight Stabling Outback Ranch, Inc., Houston, MN.; 507-896-5550, www.outbackranch.com Public Lands Arrow Head State Park, Tower, MN.; 218-753-6256 Chippewa National Forest, Deer River, MN.; 218-246-2123 Heartland State Trail, Nevis, MN.; 218-652-4054 Lake Louise State Park, LeRoy, MN.; 507-324-5249 Maplewood State Park, Pelican Rapids, MN.; 218-863-8383 North Shore State Trail, Two Harbors, MN.; 218-834-5238 Pillsbury State Forest, Brainerd, MN.; 218-828,2557 Taconite State Trail, Tower, MN.; 218-753-2580 ext.250 NORTH DAKOTA - Trail Rides Badlands Trail Rides, Killdeer, ND.; 701-764-8000, www.badlandstrailrides.com

Tennessee Walking Horse Associaiton of North Dakota Trail Ride, Grassy Butte/Turtle River State Park, 701-947-2190 Riding Vacations Knife River Ranch Vacations, Golden Valley, ND.; 701-983-4290, www.kniferiverranch.com Little Knife Outfitters, Watford City, ND.; 701973-4331, www.littleknifeoutfitters.com Public Lands Fort Ransom State Park, Fort Ransom, ND.; 701-973-4331 SOUTH DAKOTA - Trail Rides Blue Sky Ranches, Custer State Park, 520824-1660, www.blueskyranches.com Broken Arrow Horse Camp, Custer, SD: 605673-4471, www.brokenarrowcampground.com Hay Creek Ranch, Nemo, SD: 605-578-1142, www.haycreekranch.net Krieger Cattle Company, Burke, SD: 605-775-2113 Riding Vacations Bitter Sweet Ranch and Camp, HillCity, SD: 605-574-2324, wwwbitterseetranchcamp.com Broken Arrow Horse Camp, Custer,SD: 605-673-4471, www.brokenarrowcampground.com Hay Creek Ranch, Nemo, SD: 605-578-1142, www.haycreekranch.net Gunsel Horse Adventures, Rapic City, SD 605-343-7608, www.gusdelhorseadventures.com

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Salt Camp Cabins and Bed and Breakfast, Rosebud, SD: 605-747-2206, saltcamp@gwtc.net WISCONSIN - Trail Rides Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Riding Vacations Bremer Creek LLD, Mondovi, WI.; 608-323-3092, www.bremercreek.com Palmquist Farm, Brantwood, WI.; 715-564-2558, www.palmquistfarm.com Spur of the Moment Ranch,LLC,Mountain, WI.;800-644-8783. www.spurofthemomentranch.org Public Lands Black River State Park, Black River Falls, WI; 715-284-4103 Brule River State Forest, Douglas County, WI.; 715-372-4866 Castle Rock Trails, Arkdale, WI.; 608-564-2233 Governor Dodge State Park ,Dodgeville, WI.; 608-935-2315 Haymeadow Flowage, Chippewa Falls, WI.; 715-726-7880 Kerrle Moraine State Forest, Campbellsport WI.; 262-626-2116; 262-594-6200 Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls; 715-382-4574 Token Creek County Park, Madison,WI.; 608-246-3896 Wild Rock Park, Neilsville, WI.; 715-743-5140

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What is ACTHA, and this new sport called “Competitive Trail Challenge”?

This article was condensed from an interview with Carrie Scrima, Karen VanGetson and Tom Scrima, Founders of The American Competitive Trail Horse Association.

The organization is called the American Competitive Trail Horse Association…i.e. ACTHA (www.actha.us ). Their purpose is to give recognition to the American Trail Horse - their motto being "NOT JUST A TRAIL HORSE ANYMORE".

The goal is to provide a great sport for families and friends to get together and learn to demonstrate their horse’s abilities and have fun. It isn’t a demanding or stressful sport - it is natural to the horse and rider, and there are rules that keep it that way. It is billed as a “casual” competition.

A simple description of an ACTHA Competative Trail Challenge is an easy 5 to 10 mile trial with a minimum of 6 obstacles. We encourage the obstacles to be as natural as possible, using as much natural terrain as possible. The obstacles might be crossing water, stepping over logs, opening gates, and going up and down embankments etc.

How is it judged?

Judging is on horsemanship and cooperation between horse and rider. It is not a speed or endurance event. Each obstacle is worth 20 points - 10 points for the rider, 10 points for the horse. The judges like to see as much finesse as possible from the rider, and calmness, bravery, and athletic ability from the horse are rewarded.

A natural headset is appreciated as well as a balanced rider.

To assure as much impartiality and objectivity as possible 6 different individual judges are used for the obstacles. This differs from one set of judges rotating between obstacles and gives the fairest impartial results.

What are the rules that make this a natural and horse-friendly sport?

ACTHA doesn’t have many rules, persay, although the use of martingales and other such ‘training’ devices are not allowed. They DO allow bitless bridles and hoof boots. Barefoot is allowed based on the riders judgment.

They enjoy putting on rides that are fun, edu-

46 April 2010

cational, and safe yet challenging and also have clinics from trainers, vets, performance coaches, both traditional and holistic, and hoof care practitioners at the rides. Although dogs are not allowed on the trail, they know horse people love their dogs and provide a Great American Best Dog Contest for the fun of it while scores are being tallied. .

Why the “trail” horse?

For too long the trail horse has gone unrecognized for its incredible ability to take you across country, maneuvering through the countryside, and getting you where you need to go. These horses have amazing abilities when they have to go through rough terrain, go up and down steep hillsides, take you through numerous gates, cross streams, cross bridges, and yet keep you as safe as you can be. We owe much of our history as a nation and culture to the great American Trail Horse.

What kinds of horses can participate?

Any kind - all breeds and all unregistered horses and equines are welcome. Any style of riding and any type of saddle is also welcome, as long as the horse is happy with it. Carrie Scrima personally came from an English (hunter/ jumper) background, but this sport is very popular with the western riders as well. Cariie found that even when she was showing, trail riding refreshed and relaxed her horse. Cariie stated, “ I have seen many sour show horses, but I have truly never seen a sour trail horse.

This is an ideal sport for any horse - it’s great for rehabilitated and rescued horses that are capable and want to have some fun”.

Are there different age groups or levels?

You bet. Virtually all age groups are represented in all our rides. The only criteria are a minimum age of 7 by ride day.

Where do the Competitive Trail Challenges take place?

If it’s a Saturday or Sunday you won’t have to look far. They have over 300 rides on the books for 2010…and at that time it was just February! They may well reach their magic goal of 1,000 this year. So needless to say the answer to the question is EVERYWHERE! With the national TV and media coverage we are getting

our growth is exponential. Most rides take place on beautiful private ranches, although State and Federal Lands are also welcomed.

What are the prizes for winners?

There are 4 divisions: open, pleasure, junior, and buddy. All get prizes! For example, the low annual membership fee of $25 is rewarded with $50 of gifts our members choose from ACTHA’s many sponsor’s stores!

Pleasure, open and junior divisions split up $850 in certificates to go shopping for what they need. Ribbons are awarded in places 1-6 in all divisions.

There is a jack pot for open riders that are voluntary for those who wish to ride for cash. The pot is often “primed” by ACTHA and the affiliate.

100% of the jack pot is awarded.

ACTHA affiliates try to get local merchants to join in as well.

As usual the “sponsors” are the unsung heroes here. We love our sponsors and are deeply touched by their genuine giving. Their prize budgets for ACTHA are breathtaking! Many are donating over $100,000 per year in goods and services…WOW! Sure they want ACTHA members to buy more from them, but they are willing to prove their product’s effectiveness first!

Who could ask for more?

All in all, every ACTHA ride receives over $1,200 in gifts…even our Buddy Riders, who don’t compete, get something.

There is also a registry. All members horses automatically become part of ACTHA’s registry and are awarded points ranging for completion of the ride to winning the ride. Many breed registries recognize ACTHA horses achievements with points etc.

Non-registered horses are now automatically REGISTERED Horses as American Competitive Trail Horses along with the registered breed c ompetitors.

The idea being that now a trail horse will have some readily identifiable trail ability characteristics and corresponding value. For example should one be purchasing a trail horse and be made aware of its ACHTA standings and points, that person then can be relatively assured this is a trail horse that can open gates, cross water and obstacles safely etc.

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Thus a benchmark and value accompanies each ACTHA performer. Theoretically a horse with ACTHA points is worth more than an unknown horse. And the more ACTHA points the more valuable the horse. Not only that, but our incredible system records every performance result on every obstacle type. This gives prospective buyers an ACTHA xray of the horse’s strengths and weaknesses.

Affiliate Program - ACTHA has a complete affiliate program including manuals and DVD’s to give explicit directions and examples for everything from judging to obstacles and more. It has all been laid out, plus each affiliate is assigned an ACTHA “Trail Boss” team. These are fully trained seasoned veterans of horse events whom also are on ACTHA’s staff and/or management team.

This Trail Boss system is the new affiliate’s life line. For complete affiliate information please contact them.

hold more than one ride per year and almost all repeat! You’ll also have the satisfaction in knowing you are doing something positive to provide humane treatment for our wonderful horses that are, and have always, served us well.

Certainly individuals with the skill set and

land availability are also welcome to apply for affiliate status.There are absolutely no up front cost financially to become an affiliate To join a CTCor find out about becoming an affiliate visit www.actha.US

ACTHA'S GOAL is to be the largest contributor to horse charities in the USA with special emphasis on helping horse rescues. There are ,at current count, about 170,000 starving and neglected horses in America. This is shameful beyond belief in the richest country in the world.

Our current economy has made it even worse as of late.

They don’t get involved in the politics of the situation, they just deal with the facts. And the fact is horses are starving to death in epidemic proportions. Something must be done, much more than is currently being done. There are wonderful dedicated people and organizations trying to plug the leak in the dyke but the dyke has burst! Major monetary assistance is needed ASAP! If ACTHA can play its role in helping fund the expansion and creation of more of these facilities it is our hope OTHER ORGANIZATIONS will join with us an eradicate this insult to an animal species that has served mankind above and beyond the call.

Their estimation is that for every participant in an ACTHA sanctioned event (we call CTCs, Competitive Trail Challenges), a starving horse will be fed for 2 weeks. One successful ride will feed that same horse and care for him/her for 2 years! The goal is to eventually have 1,700 affiliates holding 3,400 rides annually across the USA. This would enable us to support rescues with funding for 25,000 horses…woefully short of the total needed. But as ACTHA helps perhaps the major registries and other organizations will join and amplify their efforts and erase this terrible stigma on our industry.

How can one get involved and what are the costs?

It’s easy…To ride in an ACTHA event just visit our web site, www.actha.us and join up.

For a listing of schedules events go to ther ride calendar page. They have many more rides under review and add them as they are approved. Right now they are adding dozens to the list weekly!

Cost to participate ranges from $35 to $58 .

The web site is www.actha.us … please note its .US vs .Com! …Think United States! You’ll find everything you need, including our direct contact phone numbers.

If you are interested in becoming an affiliate, clubs and organizations will find this a great way to keep their treasuries full. It’s repeatable and each ride gets better and better. Most

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Trail Horse

IT’LL BE FINE! Article II

by Doug Lindgren

Last month I mentioned leadership, confidence, trust, patience and time. All are important components of a positive relationsip with your horse. Let’s talk about your confidence level.

Every time you interact with your horse you need to display a high level of confidence. If you approach your horse in a way that shows insecurity he will pick up on it instantly. You telegraph how you feel and your horse responds in a like manner. If you are fearful your horse will be looking for some threat and a down-hill spiral begins.

On the other hand, being confident shows your horse that all is well and he will be ready to follow his leader, you. When you are confident your horse sees you as all-knowing, in control of every situation and worthy of his trust. He is ready to count on you to keep him safe.

With confidence and trust on both sides you can ask your horse to stretch his boundaries; cross a stream, climb a rocky hillside, walk across a wooden bridge. He will do what you ask because you trust him and he trusts you.

A couple of years ago we had a group from the Twin Cities staying with us. One of the gals was riding a leased horse. This Dun was a young gelding that had developed some bad

habits and rearing was his favorite.

The first morning we left camp for a ride and soon after getting on the trail we crossed a stream. Well, everyone except the Dun and his rider. I could see the anxiety on Nancy’s face when the Dun didn’t want to cross. She gave a good effort in asking him to cross until he used one of the tools he had learned to scare her. He reared up and her confidence was shot. I offered to get the Dun going and Nancy accepted. If she had chosen to take her horse back to camp his position as “leader” of the pair would have been strengthened. This was not an option.

I climbed up on the Dun and we soon began to come to an understanding. He quickly realized that he was no longer in charge! I offered him only one option and that was to cross the stream. I asked him to step up to the water and he moved side to side, kicked out and kicked at my heels. All the while I kept his head pointed at the water. All of his tricks were failing to get the results he desired so guess what he tried next?

Yes, he reared up, twice. I stayed with him, rode it out, and moved back to the stream. Rearing was his best trick and it hadn’t worked so now he stood at the edge of the water, looked at it, smelled it and finally stepped in and splashed in it. I asked him to take another step forward and waited. He moved into the water. I asked him to stop and stand there for a moment and he lowered his head and drank. When he finished I asked him to continue across. As soon as we came out of the water I turned him around and asked him to cross back to the other side. He lowered his head, sniffed the water and walked across. We did this six or seven times. The Dun learned to accept his rider as the “leader” and trust that he was not going to be in any danger.

I told Nancy “It’ll be fine”, and it was. She rode the Dun the rest of the week without incident. She rode with confidence, remembering that she was in charge, and exceeded her expectations for herself and her horse. The Dun crossed countless streams that week, and was a better horse for the experience.

Build your confidence and your horse’s by

doing. Spend as much time as possible with your horse and make it count. Pick up his feet, groom him, throw a rope around him, carry a bucket with rocks and shake it around him. Do anything you can think of that will be new to your horse, but always keep safety in mind and anticipate how your horse might react when you expose him to something new. When you are confident of your own safety your horse will learn that new and unexpected things that happen when you’re around don’t hurt him and his trust in you will grow.

If you think you need help building your confidence don’t let that hold you back. Find a mentor, coach or trainer you like and ask for assistance. There are lots of good people willing to help. Ride with knowledgeable people that will push you a little. Probably the best confidence builder is riding a good horse. Put a novice rider on a horse that has had years of good experience and in a short time you will have a rider that’s willing to take on big challenges. The flipside is something that I think happens too often.

Beginning riders buy a young, in-experienced horse and expect to “grow” together. I don’t think this is a good combination so if you find yourself in this situation I recommend you find someone to help you stay on the right track. You and your horse will both enjoy the benefits of experienced guidance.

Trail riding offers tremendous opportunities to build confidence and trust. Take the relationship you’ve built on the ground into the saddle and out to the trails! Be creative and look for more experiences than just following the horse in front of you. Look for logs and tangles of branches on the ground to cross. This will teach your horse how to place his feet. When he really has it figured out he will lower his head and hunt for the best route through these obstacles (fun).

Ride through a forest of small pines (we call this Pine Surfing in the Hills), asking your horse to push his way through. Trees in front, around, behind and even under your horse are a real learning experience for him. And don’t forget about water crossings. Your horse will let you know how much he trusts you when it comes to water. Some stop short and refuse to cross; some may load the gun and try to jump across.

When you get to that crossing, telegraph your confidence to your partner. Don’t look down into the water, pull on your horse’s head and tense up. Instead, look across the water where you want to go, stay relaxed in the saddle and give your horse his head and you will have an uneventful crossing.

Use trail riding to benefit your partnership.

It’s fun and relaxing for you and gives your horse a job he can succeed at, a great combination.

With increasing confidence and trust between you and your horse, remember, “It’ll be fine!”

Doug and Jody Lindgren own and operate Hay Creek Ranch near Nemo, SD. Doug rides 2-10 hours every day, spring, summer and fall, training horses to be great trail horses. You can visit their website at www.haycreekranch.net

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Trail Horse

www.horsedigests.com ISSUES IN THE SADDLE

Fast and Rough Canter Departures

by Julie Goodnight

Question: Julie, I have a question that I am hoping you can help me with. My gelding canters on the lunge line with no problem. However, when I am riding, it is difficult to make him take up the canter. And, then when he does, he takes off very fast. Do you have any suggestions on how to train him to be more willing and consistent?

Also, is there anything I can do to make him more collected at the canter? I would like to slow him down a bit. Thanks for your help. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Elizabeth Answer: Elizabeth, The behaviors you describe are typical of a

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horse that is afraid of the canter transition. Some horses have been hurt so many times in the canter departure by the rider hitting him them in the mouth and slamming down on their backs, that they become emotional train wrecks when asked to canter. They throw their heads up in the air and run off; running in fear of the pain they are sure is coming. It is a self-defeating behavior that soon becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy for the horse because it causes the rider to stiffen and hold the reins tighter, which in turn causes the rider to hit the horse in the mouth and back.

However, before starting on a training solution, you’ll have to rule out any physical cause for the problem and this is also very common in canter departure problems. Could be a saddle fit issue, a chiropractic issue or even lameness. Have your vet or another qualified professional examine your horse and saddle fit and once you have ruled out any physical cause, you can look to a training solution.

Here’s what I’d do to fix the problem of a horse that is scared and reactive during the canter departure: first, I’d work the horse at the trot, until I can trot on a totally loose rein with his head down and at a slow, steady speed (if this is a problem, you’ll need to back up and work more at the trot with the exercises for slowing down you’ll find in my Training Library).

Then I would give my canter cue softly and in slow motion, (outside leg, lift my inside hand slightly then push with my seat for the cue to canter) leaving the reins loose. If the horse throws his head up in the air and takes off, I just le him go, then gently and slowly pick up on the inside rein to bring him gradually onto a large circle, which will discourage his speed.

Continue at the canter until he slows down and relaxes, then let him come back to a nice easy trot.

I would repeat this exercise on a loose rein again and again until he learns to trust that his

mouth will not be hurt in the upward transition to the canter and therefore loses his fear of the transition. Surprisingly, some horses will figure it out right away with the right rider, but if it is an engrained pattern in both horse and rider, this problem can be difficult to overcome. It will help if the horse can learn the correct response from a skilled rider. This is not an easy problem to fix unless you have solid riding skills and confidence riding at speed.

This problem is addressed in my canter video, along with the actual mechanics and timing of the proper cue for canter departures.

It is in volume 4 in my riding series, Goodnight’s Principles of Riding, Canter with Confidence.

You can order online http://www.juliegoodnight.com/products.html or call 800-225-8827, M-F, 9-5 mtn.

Once you have fixed the canter departure, and your horse is stepping smoothly into the canter, you can start thinking about collection.

Before working on collection at the canter, you should be able to work your horse on a loose rein in an extended frame or on a short rein in a collected frame at the walk and trot, and have him maintain a steady speed, rhythm and frame.

You’ll need to have the ability to sit the trot and canter well and feel the rhythm of the gait in your seat and legs. You’ll need steady hands and to learn to use your reins in an alternating rhythm in timing with your seat and legs and your horse’s hind legs. If you can do all of this, you are ready to work on collection.

First you must learn what collection is, how to ask for it and how to know when you get the desired response so that you can reward your horse for his efforts with a release. All of this is explained in detail in volume 5 in my riding series, Refinement and Collection. There are also many articles on my website that explain proper riding technique and how to feel the timing of the aids for collection.

It will take time and patience for your horse to gain confidence in the canter departure and you’ll have to work to improve your riding at the same time. But if you work with patience and persistence, you’ll get there.

Enjoy the ride, JG Julie Goodnight has more than a quartercentury of horse training experience. Her varied background ranges from dressage and jumping to racing, reining, colt-starting, and wilderness riding. She teaches "Classic Skills for a Natural Ride" and travels coast-to-coast and beyond to film her award-winning television show, Horse Master, as well as to appear at horse expos, conferences and clinics. In 2008 she was named Equine Affaire's Exceptional Equestrian Educator--one of only three awards ever given.

Visit www.juliegoodnight.com.

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

AMERICAN MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION HONORS ITS OWN AT ANNUAL CONVENTION Nearly 300 members of the American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) traveled to the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, February 17-20 to attend its annual convention. Between seminars, auctions, and farm tours in Lexington, they also took time to honor those who have dedicated their time and devotion to the Morgan breed on the evening of Friday, February 19.

Man of the Year and Woman of the Year awards honor those individuals for their continued support of the breed throughout the year.

This year's honorees were Roger Barricklow of Sardinia, Ohio, and Connie Barker of Carmichael, California.

Nicole Nicholson of Manhattan, Illinois, was awarded the Cecil Brown Memorial Sportsmanship Award, which is given to a Morgan exhibitor who has displayed outstanding sportsmanship throughout the past year.

Inducted into AMHA's Hall of Fame were Elaine Galatz of Las Vegas, Nevada; the late M. A. "Bud" Hanson of Lunenberg, Ontario, Canada; and Nancy Jewell of Post Falls, Idaho. These individuals have promoted the breed on a national level for many years.

The Breeders' Hall of Fame honored a breeder(s) who has produced Morgans that have had a significant impact on the breed. This year's honorees were Cedar Creek Farm in Perrysburg, Ohio; Tara Farm of Raleigh, North Carolina; and Tennessee Valley Morgans of Knoxville, Tennessee.

The Golden Reins Award is given to a Morgan professional who has a 30-year career in training or instruction. Harold Angell of Las Vegas, Nevada; Pierre Loiselle of Hemlock, Michigan; and Lynn and Kathy Peeples of Oxford, New Jersey, received this special recognition.

Claudia Grimes of Wooster, Ohio, was honored for her outstanding contributions to the Morgan youth program as the AMHA Youth Person of the Year.

American Morgan Horse Association • 122 Bostwick Road • Shelburne, Vermont 05482 • (802) 985-4944 • FAX (802) 985-8897

Midwest Horse Digest is Online, you’ll find more articles, videos, photo classifieds and back issues!

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April 2010 51

www.horsedigests.com of events and excel in cutting, endurance, western pleasure, and even dressage.”

This description nearly echoes the words of a wild horse and burro adopter when describing her adopted wild horse. Funds were tight for her and her husband at the time, and they didn’t have a lot of land. What they did have was an attachment for this animal that seemed to return their affection with his brown eyes.

A trainer said, “You can train all the domesticated horses you want, but a mustang, that’s a true test of who you are.” Adopting a wild horse or burro today IS possible and there are many, many volunteers, adopters, trainers and BLM horse specialists available to help with the process. Once you have adopted one of these wild creatures, life will not be the same. It will be vastly enhanced!

Won’t you please think about adopting a wild horse or burro? Or several of each? Remember, there is help out there for training, answers to questions, learning what works, facing challenges with other adopters and many additional support mechanisms. Adoption can be from a scheduled site or from the Internet. If you already own horses, is there a stable for one more horse or burro?

Saving America’s Living Legends The first time I saw wild horses running free across the Nevada landscape, it took my breath away – and my heart too. The herd consisted of all sizes and colors of horses moving as a coordinated unit, seemingly carefree but with a destination in mind. Reading about such things doesn’t compare to the real experience. In that moment I was part of history - the Pony Express, wagon trains, main streets in pioneer towns, Native American hunters returning to their villages with buffalo carcasses. I was remembering tales of the 1600s when Spanish horses were dispersed by settlers throughout the Southwest and California. Watching the herd from a camouflage blind as a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) employee, the mountains of Nevada in the background, it dawned on me that I had no clue how fast a wild horse could run! Another fact would surface as well: wild horses and burros cannot exist on the range at their present population levels.

Months later, on another staff visit to America’s public lands, a colleague and I watched a horse standing by a tree - alone.

John, a man with years of wild horse and burro experience to his credit, said the horse would not wander far from that spot. The animal’s ribs were easily visible and its eyes were dull. John was right.The horse never moved during our short stay. This time, my reaction to seeing a wild horse was different. Instead of excitement, I felt a little moisture pooling in my eyes. Old age was not the reason for the horse’s poor condition; drought and lack of nutritious vegetation were.

Native grasses had been replaced by cheatgrass, an abundant invasive species, one of many on western ranges. Cheatgrass does not even appeal to livestock. However, even though livestock can and do succumb to drought and malnutrition, cattle can be managed so they do not starve - not such an easy task for wild horses.

During the next four years I saw more herds

52 April 2010

whose numbers multiplied, and I witnessed more unhealthy wild horse and burro incidents. Can adoptions be the answer to this problem? Not entirely. Reaching appropriate management level among 30,000 plus wild horses and burros is a nearly insurmountable goal. But rounding up animals and offering them for adoption can present a partial solution. However, animals removed from the range and not adopted must remain in short-term corrals or long-term holding facilities.

Today, as I sit at my desk in the BLM Eastern State Office working with the Wild Horse & Burro (WH&B) Program, I often recall that first Wild West experience. It is almost possible to taste the dust left behind from hooves moving in unison and to feel the ground vibrate as if an earthquake were to strike at any moment! But reality brings me back to the present and to the important task at hand which is to find ways to save the lives of these amazing animals. Help is at hand in the form of colleagues, adopters, volunteers and partners who support the BLM mission to act as “Guardians of the Past; Stewards for the Future.”

Spending $125 to adopt a wild horse is, for hundreds of adopters, the beginning of a long friendship. Juan Palma, BLM Eastern States Director, describes wild horses as, “Intelligent, athletic, sure-footed, able to compete in a variety

Visit www.wildhorseandburro.blm.gov or call 866-4MUSTANGS for further information about the BLM Wild Horse & Burro Program, including adoptions.

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www.horsedigests.com

Equine VIP

Tami Hoag talks to Equine VIP

by Susan Ashbrook,, owner Equine VIP

Before writing 14 best-selling books, Tami Hoag held a variety of jobs including training show horses. With her success as a writer of suspense novels, including the book Night Sins which became a TV miniseries starring Valerie Bertinelli and Harry Hamlin, Hoag turned her attention back to riding horses. Ms Hoag is currently touring to promote her new novel Deeper Than Dead but she made time to speak with Equine VIP. YOU HAVE WRITTEN 14 BOOKS THAT HAVE BEEN ON THE NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER LIST. YOU ALSO RIDE PROFESSIONALLY AND COMPETE AT AN INTERNATIONAL LEVEL OF DRESSAGE. HOW DO FIND THE TIME? It's a balancing act. My usual day is riding in the morning and working afternoons and evenings. It doesn't leave much time for anything else, but these are the two things I love most, so I consider myself lucky.

YOU RECENTLY WROTE THE FOREWARD FOR THE NEW BOOK “THE BIG BOOK OF SMALL EQUINES: A CELEBRATION OF MINATURE HORSES AND SHETLAND PONIES”. WE UNDERSTAND YOU HAVE A PERSONAL CONNECTION TO SHETLAND PONIES? Yes. I started out on ponies. I learned to ride and drive with your garden-variety backyard Shetland ponies. They were great babysitters and friends.

THIS IS YOUR 10TH YEAR RIDING DRESSAGE. WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THE DISCIPLINE THAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE SPORT? The grace, the elegance, the control, the power. Everything about it, really. I love that dressage is based on a logical system of training the horses that has remained basically unchanged for generations. Most of all, I love the partnership that develops between horse and rider.

TELL US ABOUT THE HORSES YOU CURRENTLY OWN, COMPETE AND RIDE? KNOWING YOU HAVE A GOAL IN MIND, HOW DO YOU PICK A GOOD PARTNER? I have a great group of horses. Bacchus de

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Light 2 will be my #1 grand prix horse this year.

He is Swedish and came from Michael Klimke's barn in Germany. Bacchus is loved by all, the benevolent king of all he surveys. He promptly injured himself after I bought him, and it's been a long road getting him back, but he's worth the wait. My #2 horse is Rush Hour 4, a tall bright red chestnut Hanoverian with a world of talent.

Then there's Fhilosopher, the class clown. He's a stunning liver chestnut Westfalen gelding.

My project. He's something like fourth level schooling grand prix Also a very talented athlete who needs a rider with a lot of feel and patience.

I'm really enjoying getting into his head and working to bring out the best in him. Last but by no means least is the fabulous Feliki, who will be 23 in March and is still hot as a pistol. She refuses to retire. She can still outwork every horse in the barn. We've been together ten incredible years in September. She was my first grand prix horse and I almost didn't buy her because I thought she was too old--at 13! Now I'm beginning to think she'll outlive me.

How do I pick an equine partner? I always look for a horse that will challenge me. I have never owned a schoolmaster. D'Artagnon--my first dressage horse--was a very tough ride, but I bought him knowing I would be a better rider for it. Feliki ran off with me all the time when I first got her because she thought I was stupid. I had to figure her out and earn her respect. I like a horse that's smart, maybe a little arrogant, or even insecure, so I have to win them over and gain their trust. That's what's rewarding to me.

When you make a real partnership with a horse like that, they will give you everything they have.

SPEAKING OF PARTNER – YOU STARTED YOUR DRESSAGE CAREER TRAINING WITH BETSY STEINER. YOU’VE EVEN PERFORMED A PAS DE DEUX WITH BETSY FOR THE US TEAM AT THE CHALLENGE OF THE AMERICAS. OBVIOUSLY, SHE HAS BECOME QUITE A MENTOR. CAN YOU SHARE A TIDBIT YOU’VE LEARNED FROM HER? Betsy has been a great friend and mentor for a decade now, so it's hard to boil that down into a few words. But I'll tell a little story that says it all.

When I met Betsy I was looking for my first dressage horse. She connected me with Guenter Seidel from whom I purchased D'Artagnon, a beautiful but difficult small tour horse. I grew up riding western and some jumpers, but had been out of riding for five years. I had only had a couple of years training in dressage before that on borrowed horses. But when I bought D'Ar, my goal for the year was to be riding Prix St. Georges by the end of the show season. Only one person in my acquaintance at the time didn't scoff, didn't tell me it couldn't be done, didn't bet against me. That person was Betsy. I told Betsy my goals and she took a big deep breath and said "Okay. Let's get to work." She was willing to believe in me. That's who Betsy is. She knows

what it is to have a dream and goals, and to work hard to achieve them. Two months after we started working, I rode in my first show--the Raleigh CDI. I won two amateur 4th level classes and took home a bucket of ribbons, qualified for regional championships and Devon. By the end of that season I was not only riding Prix St. Georges, I ended up 5th or 6th in the national standings--thanks to Betsy.

WRITING PROFESSIONALLY REQUIRES A GREAT DEAL OF DEDICATION. SINCE YOU ARE SUCCESSFUL AT WRITING AND RIDING, DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OUR READERS ON HOW TO MAKE TIME FOR A CAREER AND HOBBY? You have to be very dedicated and disciplined, and you have to be willing to sacrifice in other areas of your life.

YOU ARE SPONSORED BY TRILOGY SADDLES. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THEIR SADDLES THAT MADE YOU WANT TO RIDE FOR THEM? --The Trilogy saddle is the most well-balanced saddle I have ever sat on. It allows me to have perfect position without restricting me or the horse. The design of the panels is very mindful of the comfort for the horse's back. All that and it's beautiful too. And the customer service is beyond compare.

YOU ARE CURRENTLY ON A TOUR FOR YOUR NEW BOOK “DEEPER THAN DEAD”. IS THERE A WEBSITE WE CAN GO FOR MORE INFORMATION ON YOUR BOOK SIGNINGS AND APPEARANCES? www.tamihoag.com Readers can also follow me on Twitter: tamihoag@twitter.com TWO OF YOUR BESTSELLING NOVELS, DARK HORSE AND ALIBI MAN, ARE SET AMONGST THE ACTION OF THE SHOW JUMPING WORLD OF WELLINGTON, FLORIDA. ANY CHANCE YOU MIGHT WRITE ANOTHER NOVEL AMIDST THE WORLD OF DRESSAGE? I would definitely like to write more about those characters, though I don't have a story for them yet. I'll get back to them eventually.

WHAT IS YOUR NEXT EQUESTRIAN GOAL WE CAN WATCH FOR IN 2010?

My main goal for this year is to take my time and build my partnership with Bacchus. He's such a special horse. I think we can go far together, but I won't rush it. It's most important to keep him sound and happy, then we can have a long career together.

Equine VIP is written by Producer/Host Susan Ashbrook who is also developing a TV series based on her interviews with celebrities and top equestrians. For more information go to www.equineVIP.com Equine VIP interviews celebrities and equestrian VIPs because “If It’s About Horses, We Cover It”.

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

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Real Estate

continued...

Adertiser Index Ace Tack & Outfitters ACTHA ADM American Wood Fibers Ansur Saddlery Arena Fenceline Arena Trailer Sales B Bar 10 Bakko Industries - The Jug Bale Buddy Blairview BLM Bloomquist Law Firm Cannon Falls Trailer Sales Central Iowa Featherlite Central MN Horse Fest Carlson Wholesale - Ritchie Connolly Red Mills Conway Arabians Custom Panel Doors Denny’s Trailer Sales

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page 13 page 47 page 17 page 35 page 31 page 27 page 49 page 26 page 328 page 12 page 25 page 53 page 61 page 3 page 51 page 23 page 21 page 31 page 41 page 17 page 32

Donn’s Leather Works DunHaven Horsey Headwear Excalibur Breeding Center Farnam Feathered Gold Stables Federated Coop Glad Farms Morgans Haycreek Ranch Hillside Farm I90 Expo Center Ivanhoe fQ J & B Western Store Julie Goodnight KCB Equine Center Ken McNabb K Fence Larry Whitesell Clinic Lincoln Sales Lisa Kosmos LJB & Company Lynn Palm Midwest Cremation Mimbach Fleet Supply MN Arabian Horse Assoc.

Minnesota Horse Council MN Horse Expo MN Hooved Animal Rescue MN Lake Realty MN School Of HorseShoeing MNTA More Custom Leather Natural Plan Stomach Soother Northland Buildings Nutrena Ogallala Livestock Auction Painted Pony Western Wear Pleasant Hills Saddle Shop Photo Classifieds PMHA Real Estate HJN Team Century 21

page 61 page 61 page 43 page 2, 7, 11, 21 page 39 page 19 page41 page 44 page 61 page 29 page 42 page 5 page 50 page 61 page 8 page 33 page 42 page 51 page 44 page 61 page 29 page 27 page 61 page 39 page 27, 61 page 9 page 38 page 44 page 12 page 41 page 61 page 13 page 21 page 37 page 38 page 18 page 20, 61 page 59 page 40

Red River Valley Horse Fair Redwood Stables - Stallion Roger Berg - Insurance R.T. Duggan Roger Berg Insurance Schatzlein Saddle Shop SM Iron Sales Simon Horse Sales Square Meal Feeds Stable Grid Systems Steers Tack Tak Shak Tail Tamer The Boot Lady The Farm B & B The Model Horse Store The Natural Gait Thurk Bros. Chevrolet Town and Country Vet. Triple Cross Design Truly Cowgirl Creations Twin Cities Featherlite Twin Cities Horse Sales Twoasonehorsemanship.com UBRA Uckele United Vet View Point Stables Vintage Vanners Wade Scott - Insurance West 20 West Wind Wind -N -Wood

page 19 page 40 page 57 page 61 page 23 page 27 page 52 page 39 page 45 page 64 page 36 page 61 page 26 page 18 page 17 page 19 page 44 page 36 page 37 page 61 page 18 page 29 page 63 page 16 page 62 page 33 page 29 page 44 page 40 page 56 page 14,15 page 33 page 40

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MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

EQUINE LAW

The Use of Liability Waivers for Equestrians by Leah A. Indrelie Loomis Many people in the equestrian world often run into Release of Liability and Hold Harmless agreements. You may be the person being asked to sign the agreement or, if you plan to host an event, you may be told you must have one in order to have participants. But we may not all know the laws surrounding these agreements and their enforceability. The purpose of a Release from Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement, or a liability waiver, is to help protect you and your horse business or facility from the financial effects of lawsuits that may result from injuries occurring on your property or involving your equipment, staff or horses. Activities involving horses, by their very nature, can pose many risks and dangers. A liability waiver should be used as part of your risk management plan.

There are many situations in which a release and waiver of liability can be utilized. These include, among others: liability releases for individual who allow guests to ride their horses; releases for individuals who allow guests to “haul-in” horses and ride on the individual’s property; liability release forms for those who haul other people’s horses whether they be individual haulers, trainers or commercial businesses; liability waivers for horse sellers who have potential buyers riding or handling sale horses; liability releases for individual horse owners who have other riders exercising or showing their horse; liability release for horse boarding facilities; liability waivers for trainers and riding instructors; and releases for horse activities such as clinics, shows, and demonstrations.

In a liability waiver, the participant agrees to not hold the person or organization providing the service legally responsible for any damages that the participant may incur as a result of taking part in the activity. The liability waiver absolves the organization of liability even for negligent acts, so long as the act does not constitute more than ordinary negligence. More than ordinary negligence is those acts that are done to intentionally cause harm, are grossly negligent or are willful and wanton. Gross negligence is very great neg-

ligence that is absent of even slight care. Willful and wanton is the failure to use ordinary care after having discovered a person or property in a position of danger.

In Minnesota, releases are not favored but are valid and enforceable if they are between parties holding equal bargaining positions, are not against public policy, and are not ambiguous or purport to release one from intentional, willful, or wanton acts. Equal bargaining positions exist where the activity or services are available elsewhere and are not essential (i.e. essential to livelihood). Minnesota courts have stated that recreational activities, including horseback riding, are not the type of activities that involve public interest and are thus not against public policy. In considering whether a release is ambiguous, a court will interpret individual clauses in context with the obvious meaning of the release as a whole.

An accident must be of the type contemplated by the liability release in order for it to release a party from liability for that accident. Accidents involving an integral aspect of an activity are presumptively within the scope of a release of liability governing the activity. For example, Minnesota courts have specifically held that falling off a horse is an integral part of riding and therefore fell within the scope of a release concerning horseback riding. To ensure that potential accidents are covered by the release, the release should include a description of the nature of the activity involved and list possible consequences of injuries, both minor and serious. The list need not be comprehensive but should be representative of the range of injuries that may occur. The release should also include language regarding behavioral expectations of the participant (that they adhere to safety rules, wear a helmet, etc.).

A well-written release can protect one from liability for injuries resulting from ordinary negligence, but it is not foolproof. There are some steps that one can take to help insure that they will not be held liable for any injuries to

participants of their services. When executing a release agreement, it should be accompanied with a verbal explanation of the agreement. The participant should be given an opportunity to ask any question that they may have. If there is an accident, the release will be a piece of evidence in any potential lawsuit, so it is important to retain the original copy of the release. Further, it may be helpful to make an accident report at the time the accident occurs including written statements of any witnesses. Finally, if the circumstances of the organization or any of their horse activities change, the release may also need to be changed.

There are some specific laws regarding liability and equine non-profit organizations.

Under Minnesota Statute § 604A.12, non-profit organizations are immune from liability for the death or injury of a participant that results from the inherent risks of horse activities. The statute defines inherent risks as those that result from the dangers that are an integral part of horse activities, such as kicking, bucking, the unpredictability of horses, natural hazards posed by surface conditions and the possibility of horses colliding with one another or other objects.

In order for the statute to apply, the non-profit organization must post plainly visible signs in the area that the horse activity takes place that warn of the inherent risks of horse activities and of the limitation of liability under the statute. The statute will not exempt a non-profit organization from liability where the organization knowingly uses faulty tack, failed to use reasonable care to protect the participant from a known, humanmade dangerous condition, fails to make a reasonable effort to assess the ability of the participant and match their ability to a suitable horse (if applicable), or where the organization’s acts that caused an accident were willful or intentional.

Unfortunately, there is no ‘one size fits all’ release form that will provide liability protection in all states and under all circumstances. Just because a release may work for one person, organization or business does not mean it will work for another. You should always be wary of using a form contract as a form may not provide you with the desired protection. Instead, you should consult with an attorney to craft a Release of Liability and Hold Harmless agreement appropriate for your situation. You should be sure to discuss with your attorney the enforceability of such agreements under your particular circumstances.

NOT LEGAL ADVICE: This article has been prepared for general information purposes only.

The information in the article is not legal advice.

Legal advice is dependent upon the specific circumstances of each situation. Also, the law may vary from State to State, so that some information in this article may not be correct for your jurisdiction. The information in this article cannot replace the advice of competent legal counsel licensed in your state.

2010 Copyright, All rights reserved. Leah A. Indrelie Loomis Leah A. Indrelie Loomis is an attorney at Bloomquist Law Firm, LLC, a small firm in Chaska, Minnesota and practices in the area of equine law, estate planning and family law.

LLoomis@BloomquistLaw.com; www.bloomquistlaw.com.

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Classifieds BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Horse Lovers! Would you like to own your ownbusiness helping horses, working your own hours and make about $75 an hour plus excellent sales commissions? 7 Year old company needs reps for US, Europe, Australia, etc. Our success rate is amazing, and we can show you what to do and how to do it. No pushy sales people, please. Ifyou love horses, PLEASE visit the THERAPY page at www.sumereltraining.com to learn more. In 2 weeks you could be in a new career. Part or full time. $5,000 covers all equipment. Exclusive territories and excellent company support. If you already work with horses, this could help you as well. 540-384-6220

2007 Buckskin gelding, cow bred, good disposition and 100% foundation. 2008 Bay Stallion, Poco Bueno, Martin's Jessie and Hollywood Gold. Stud Prospect.2008 Buckskin Stallion, 34% Poco Bueno, 22% King, 100% foundation. Stud Prospect. 620-378-3152

ASSOICATIONS

.Athletic, Flashy 8 YO TB Gelding, 16.1H beautiful gaits, upper level eventing potential. $12,000.

SE Wisc. - 847/924-9089.

International Spotted Horse Registry Association.

Color registry for horses of color patterns. Drafts to Miniatures, Grade to Pureblood, Sponsoring 2010 Online Photo Horse of Color Show! 300 different classes. January to November 1st.

866-201-3098 ISHRPPA@AOL.COM BOARDING www.sunsetridgeranch.com : Heated/cooled indoor-outdoor-roundpen: pasture/boxstall boardtraining and lessons. Clearwater, MN 320-5582980.

EQUIPMENT & PRODUCTS 10 box stalls,- 1-x1- - Brand new, no wood.$13,000. Choose your color. Contact 507-527-2914. Will sell individually.

New leather harness, 3rd generation business.

Team, work, complete with hames, collars extra.

Draft $802.00. Qtr. horse $757.00. w 3 hip - Draft $882.00. Qtr. horse $812.00. Buggy breast Qtr $220.00, Pony $140.00. (651) 222-5616. Website - stpaulsaddlery.com Catalogue - St Paul Saddlery, 953 W 7th St., St Paul, MN 55102 Master Saddler offers complete saddlery repairs.Trees replaced, complete reflocks, new seats,billets, tree alterations on Kieffer and Prestigesaddles. Appointments booked for quick turnaround. Skilled repair of driving harness andsidesaddles. Custom accessories for side saddle competition. Bridles sewn in. Contact Michael 847-776-6700 or email master_saddler@saddlersrow.com Website www.saddlersrow.com

At Stud: Proven 99.6% Purebred Arabian.

Athletic, Correct, Beauty, Elegance, Kind disposition with awesome movement.

Registration Numbers: 320-283-5933, spruchlo@gctel.com

Registerable 2+year old paint quarter horse stud and green broke 6 year old gelding, 218-243-3321

REAL ESTATE 165 Acres, Farmhouse & Horse Barn in Elk River, MN for $699,000. Located next to 2,700 acre Sand Dunes State Forest which has 29 miles of Horseback trails and the Bob Dunn Horse Campground.

Contact Brian 612-532-1164

Beautiful Buttermilk buckskin Mare!! Smart, willing, and really sweet, broke to ride outside or in an arena. Needs a intermedite ridder!! She is built for speed but could be just a nice trail or ranch horse if someone is willing to put time into her, up to date on shots, worming, and trimming 920-566-0241 .

Barrington Hills – Famous Kickapoo Farms. 28 acre horse facility w/2 updated homes, 15-stall barn w/70x100 indoor arena, 90x60 pole barn, 90’ round arena, 125’ outdoor arena, 11 pastures.

Used to breed & train cutting horses/thoroughbreds. Lori Rowe, Coldwell Banker 847/774-7464 Go to www.premierhorseproperty.com Custom built french country home on 40 acres.

3600 square feet; 3 bedroom 4 bath; gaited entrance; 3 bay shop with living quarters; 2 stall horse barn with automatic water and vinyl fencing.Paved driveway and lots more. 417-326-9784 mrparsons@windstream.net

2007 Bay Overo English Prospect, started under saddle and still in training. Good looking, big bodied, nice stride, good minded and great manners.15.2 and still growing. Asking $9500.

815/238-8462.

For Sale: 16 Yr. Buckskin Paint Gelding. Needs experienced rider. 815/943-7031 evenings.

Appaloosa Reg. Mares. 3 Yr+ Gentle, pretty, friendly. Will be great under saddle. Reasonably priced. 815/814-1803.

VACATIONS The first Montana High Country Cattle Drive of 2010 will be a singles drive. If you are into horses and romance, please visit our website at www.montanacattledrive.com. or call 1-800-3459423 for more information.

STALLIONS Dakota Gambler Rare Black and White Pintabian

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! $10.00 per month for 20 words, $.15 for each word over 20. Send your classified in with your check or credit card to: Midwest Horse Digest, Attention: Peg (classified) 40694 30th Street, Elmore, MN 56027 or call 507-943-3355 Name:______________________________________ 20 Words = $10.00 Address:____________________________________ # Extra Words ___x $.15 = ______ City:________________________St:_____Zip:_________ Sub-Total: ______ Credit Card#____________________________________ # of months to Run x: ______ Type:________Exp. Date:_________3 Digit Code:______ Total: ______ Phone:_______________Email:______________________ Number of Months to Run:______

HORSES FOR SALE 3 year old palomino filly, broke. Topside: Frenchman Tanner, Frenchman Guy, Sunfrost, Driftwood. Mare side: Siverspike, Poco Bueno.

Also - Full brother, 2 year old gelding, not broke.

Color Camelo. 507-762-3467

AD Category:_________________ Classfied:_____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________

FRIESIANS,FRIESIANS,FRIESIANS www.excaliburbreeding.com 218-678-4125

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MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

Place your photo classified here for $20.00 per

Thumbnail Photo Classifieds month just call 507-943-3355 for more info Plus you can also place your ad online at

www.HorseDigests.com Equipment For Sale RUSHLOW'S WONDER GREAT YOUTH HORSEWESTERN/HUNT Offered at $10,000 Call Dalton Budd 517-281-5271 Rushlows Wonder Bloodlines 317-531-1326 info@selectshowhorses.com

8 YR. MARE, Gorgeous, Beginners Dream Horse!

Barrel racing and trail. $4,000 Pinto-Beginners, young or old, this is the horse for you. Gentle, smooth, and a nice barrel horse, great on trails too. Call 605-670-9098 harttraining@hcinet.net

2009 Twister 4 Horse GN 8X32 7'6" Tall, with 14'SW Slide Out, Knotty Alder, 20" TV, Copper Sinks, Western Package, Ducted AC, 6 cu ft Refrig., Microwave, Recessed 2 Burner Stove, Large Bathrm with lots of Closet Space, 888-2637212, www.cannonfallstrailers.com

Services and Products AA DESPIERTA, Elite Winner of the GANADOR Trophy, (Despierto x Ardorosa del Greco) $15,000 Andalusian In foal to US National Champion 3rd level dressage horse "Legado".She is carrying a "sexed" male foal.Available in utero for $10,000 262-249-8870 selwoodp@idcnet.com ZINNIA BA ANDALUSIAN MARE (Despierto x Zinnia) US Reserve National Champion Andalusian Mare $15,000. Well started under saddle, Great Broodmare, Proven Show Horse 262-249-887 selwoodp@idcnet.com AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE: BAILADOR DG. GREY SON OF SANTENO KDW Lots of action in the front and push from behind. This is a colt with substantial bone and an upright neck.

Perfect for Dressage 972-746-1457 vintageandalusians@hotmail.com

NORWEGIAN FHORD HORSES Beautiful, family horses 1 Grey mare, 4 years old, Registered P.S. Emmie.

Broke to ride, started driving, beautiful! 1- 3 year old brown dun gelding, started riding and driving. 2 coming 2 year old geldings. 1 grey and 1 brown. Ready to start.

All excellent breeding, family raised.

515-243-3807 days, 515-238-2745 cell pantherstables@aol.com

Stallions and Stallion Auctions SPOTZ SENSATION, Homozygous! Exotic, Tall & stretchy! Only known grandson of both Hot August Nite & Chubasco! Great motion, fantastic temperament, Multi Championship Winner.

715-210-5371

For Sale - WAGON - Saw-mill Lumber - Small case running gear, Excellent condition. Set of harnesses - fits quarter horses, all leather, Various Carts and harnesses.

1 high wheeled cart, harness.

515-243-3807 days, 515-238-2745 cell pantherstables@aol.com Horses of Distinction - Oneof-a-kind reference all horse lovers will treasure. Practical guide to registering and showing. Surprising facts and interesting insights. 31 color photos. 91 pages.

Softbound. 715-265-4226 Fran333@centurytel.net www.equestrian-horses.com

clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com

WISH UPON A STARR- HALF ARABIAN, IOWA GOLD STAR AUCTION NOMINATED - Sir Spattson x Greta Starrbo TM (GG Bask Starr) Extremely nice mare, lively, well-mannered!

BLACK with 4 whites!

Pprofessionally trained. Shown in Halter and Western Pleasure.

816-678-5807, smc1776@embarqmail.com

URGEL III. PROVEN PRODUCER OF MOVEMENT! ANCCE Revised, 16.1 hands (Danes III by Maja VII). His foals are of consistent quality and have his conformation, power, movement, kindness, and love for people. 940-6860910 ranchoandalucia@earthlink.net

HALF-ARABIAN- CR BLONDE BOMBSHELL Half-Arabian filly Vanilla Hot Shot (Cremello ASB) x Kismet May Wine (Aladdinbreeding) 2009 Palomino very fancy, sweet personality, Show home preferred.

816-678-5807 - 816-6657030 smc1776@embarqmail.com

FAMOUS ECHO SCA - 2001 Bay Tobiano American Saddlebred Champion Stallion, direct son of Saddlebred stallion, The Color of Fame.16 HH, Tested Homozygous, Double registered ASHA and PtHA .

715-210-5371 clearcreekarabians@yahoo.com

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

ORIGINAL HORSE PAINTINGS Artist Lisa Kosmo 218-834-3482 or lslkosmo@usfamily.net Each painting is drawn directly on canvas then painted with acrylics.

Real Estate RARE OPPORTUNITY! 67 acre dream property, just west of Alexandria, MN. Commercial horse stable.

Possibilities- horse stable,camp ground, mixed use development. $499,000 218-943-9180 Mn. Lakes Realty of Alexandria http://www.flexmls.com/link.html?req94qdfymp,4,1

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www.horsedigests.com

Upcoming Events Remember, call before your dirve Saturdays in April - Natural Horsemanship Training for Teens - Eagle Valley Equestrian, W668 Joos Valley Rd., Fountain City WI. Heather at 608-687-9534 or eaglevalleyequestrian@yahoo.com; www.learning2ride.com 4/1/2010- WI, Prescott, Roping Roping Practice 7-9pm - (715) 262-4284 4/10 & 11- Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN.South Paws K9 Dog Show - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com

4/10 - 4th Annual Olmsted County 4-H Horse Project Tack & Clothing Swap - Sat - 8:30 - 6Sun 9-2, Old Fleet Farm building, 3600 Commercial Dr. SW, Rochester, MN - FREE Randy Kraling clinic both days! www.co.olmsted.mn.us/family/horse_project.asp 4/10 - Arrowhead Arena Team Roping & Breakaway Jackpots, Monticello, MN - Cody 612-817-6359 4/10 - High Island Arena Winter Barrel Buckle Series - Kathy - highislandarena@hotmail.com 507-964-2607 Henderson, MN 4/10-11 - WGBRA Spring Fling - Black River Falls Fairgrounds - NBHA & BBR Approved!

Black River Falls, WI

4/13 - Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN..All Breed Horse & Tack Sale - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com

4/10&/11- Verndale MN - R&J tack and catalog sale - R & J Arena - 877-212-6612

4/17 & 18 -Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN.Spring Tune Up Horse Show - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com

4/11- Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN - All Breed Horse & Tack Sale - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com

4/24 - Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN - Twin Cities Appaloosa & Quarter Horse Sale-507263-4200 - www.simonhorsecompany.com

4/15/2010- WI, Prescott, Roping Roping Practice 7-9pm - (715) 262-4284

4/2-4/4- IA, Cedar Rapids - Barrel - NBHA, UBRA - IA NBHA Easter Show @ Iowa Equestrian Center - (319) 796-7715 - Added Money: $2600 - vorhiesj@gmail.com 4/3/2010- NE, FREMONT -Barrel - PURINA MILLS SADDLE SERIES - (402) 419-0191 4/2&3- Backus MN-Barrel Clinic to be followed

by UBRA Barrel Race - Los Gauchos Ranch Jane Melby - kstranch@paulbunyan.net 218 947 3777 4/3/2010- MN, Verndale -Game Show -WSCA R&J Spring WSCA Buckle Series - Games Only & Coggins Clinic (get your 2010 coggins pulled) - (877) 212-6612 4/3/2010- MN, North Branch - Fun Show - Fun Show Start at 11am HiPt Awards to All Age Div, Gear Bags For High Point!!! $20 for entire day!!!

- (651) 277-1095 houckhorsecompany@yahoo.com 4/6/2010 - MN, Sherburn - Catalog Horse Sale Tack Sale - www.i90expocenter.com - 507-7644025 4/8/2010- WI, Prescott, Roping Roping Practice 7-9pm - (715) 262-4284 4/8 & 9 - Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN NCRCHA Horse Show - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com 4/9-11 - Lincoln NE - Cowgirl Tuff Barrel Bash Barrel Race - Double B Productions, bolling@iowatelecom.net - 641-745-5845 www.barrelbash.com 4/10-11 - Red Horse Ranch, Fergus Falls, MN WSCA Show hosted by the Red Horse Riders Saddle Club -rhra@prtel.com - 218-736-3000

60 April 2010

4/15 & 16 - Simon Arena, Cannon Falls, MN South Paws K9 Dog Show - 507-263-4200 www.simonhorsecompany.com 4/15-18 - MN AQHA Breed Show - Red Horse Ranch - rhra@prtel.com - 218-736-3000 Fergus Falls, MN www.RedHorseRanchArena.com

5/8-9 - Upper Midwest Endurance Ride - Glacier Trails Ride - Palmyra, WI, Mona Radtke - 608222-5200, helinoretonsor@earthlink.net 5/21/10 - MN, Pine City, Heidelberger Arena, Barrel Race and Pole Bending, 5PM Exhibitions, 7PM Start time - (651)464-6460 dunsmore_flmn@msn.com 5/22/10 - MN, Pine City, Heidelberger Arena, Rodeo - MN High School - 6PM Start time (651)464-6460 - dunsmore_flmn@msn.com 5/29-5/31 Memorial Showdown All Breed & ABRA Show. Jefferson County Fair Park, Jefferson, WI. 8:00a.m. Kyle Raabe 414-9400375 swba@swbuckskin.com, www.swbuckskin.com 5/29-5/31 Memorial Showdown All Breed & ABRA Show. Jefferson County Fair Park, Jefferson, WI. 8:00a.m. Kyle Raabe 414-9400375 swba@swbuckskin.com, www.swbuckskin.com 6/ 5-6 - UMBHA-IBHA show - Jackson County Fairgrounds, Black River Falls, WI - AQHA Special events, Heading, Heeling and Tie-Down roping - Michele Giraud 608 343-5690.

6/19th, 2010 - J & J Paints and Quarter Horses, Dodgeville, WI. - Riding Horse Sale/Auction.Phone bidding welcome. Sale catalog - June 1st. www.jjpaintsandquarterhorses.com 608-341-8144

4/17&18 - FREMONT NE - PURINA MILLS SADDLE SERIES - Barrel Race - DONNA RANKIN - 402-419-0191

6/13, 2010 - Minnesota Walking Horse Assoc.

Open House and Horse Sale,Crow Wing County Fairgrounds - Brainerd, MN \abragstad@hotmail.com or 218.568.4153

4/17&18 - Verndale MN - R&J Spring WSCA Buckle Series Show- Pleasure/Game Show, R & J Arena - 877-212-6612

6/ 25, 26, 27 - Jefferson, WI - Wisconsin Buckskin Horse Assn / IBHA / NSBA, Kathy Yager 920-568-1111, sales@premierawards.com

4/18/2010 - 4/18/2010 - Roping Practice & Jackpot 1-5pm - Prescott WI Oak Hill Ranch, 715-262-4284 4/24-25 - Upper Midwest Endurance Ride - Iron Oak Ride, Arkdale, WI, contact May Clapper, 608-474-0746, pullonfarm@yahoo.com May 29, 30, 31 - Illinois State Buckskin Assoc.

2010 Heartland Holiday Circuit Shows, 8:00 am.

Contact Dan Vincent 815-562-9552. Open classes offered for non-IBHA horses. PAC Approved. www.freewebs.com/illinoisbuckskin

Minnesota Pinto Horse Association Show Schedule July 9-11- 3 days, 4 Judges - Red Horse Ranch, Fergus Falls - *WIN A KENSINGTON BAG SET* Field Representatives - Mahlon Bauman - 612508-6832 & On Site PtHA Abby Duncanson - 612-877-0338 - Registrations Mary Noonan 402-920-0455

5/1-2 - Upper Midwest Endurance Ride MnDRAI, Orrock, MN - Theresa Meyer, 763753-5236, tmeyer@tpt.org

August 6-8 - Jubilee of Color Show - MN Equestrian Center, Winona *CO-PRODUCED WITH MIN-I-KOTA PINTO* - Jubilee Show Committee Christine Peterson 320-493-3435 - * Special Awards * 3 FULL DAYS * 3 judges * 4 sets of points

5/1-2, 2010 - Introduction to Perfect Balance Natural Hoof Care - Eagle Valley Equestrian, W668 Joos Valley Rd., Fountain City WI. Heather at 608-687-9534 or eaglevalleyequestrian@yahoo.com; www.perfectbalancehoofcare.com

September 11 & 12 2 days, 4 Judges - Red Horse Ranch, Fergus Falls - *WIN A MIKE BRAY SADDLERY MIRROR* Stabling Ron & Karen Clark - 763-682-5324 - Show Office Manager - Ed Neu 763-477-5027 - Visit our website www.minnesotapinto.com

5/ 8 & 9 - Jefferson, WI - Wisconsin Buckskin Horse Assn / IBHA, Kathy Yager 920-568-1111 or sales@premierawards.com

Please email your event lisitings to PEG@HORSEDIGESTS.COM

MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

TRADERS CORNER

Equine Lawyers

Associations

Saddles , Tack & Gear

Equine Health

Training

Website and Ad Design

Advertise in Traders Corner for as little as $20 per month.

Call today for information on advertising in Traders Corner, Let people know about your business!507-943-3355 MIDWEST HORSE DIGEST

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