Whoa! fall2011

The Official Newsletter of the Ontario Equestrian Federation

Fall 2011 www.horse.on.ca

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Feature Barn Bullies NEW OEF Model Member Award Winter Nutrition for Horses Equine Guelph Fall Research Update

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The Official Newsletter of The Ontario Equestrian Federation • 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203 Richmond Hill ON L4B 3J9

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"Striding for Equine Excellence!" www.horse.on.ca Ontario Equestrian Federation BOARD OF DIRECTORS Allan Ehrlick President 905-854-0762

Jeremy Denouden Director 905-669-7196

Gary Yaghdjian Past President 905-649-1342

Mark Dobrindt Director 905-892-9769

Al Patterson 1st Vice President 905-659-1132

Ross Millar Director 519-941-5194

Ken Denouden 2nd Vice President 416-409-8614

Sarah Pratt Director 905-751-4623

Bruce Brown Treasurer 905-995-0275

Lindsey Reeve Director 905-424-1151

Susan Legge Secretary 289-221-2279

Bonnie Simpson Director 705-438-5752

Jack de Wit Director 905-655-4666

Martha Worts Director 519-860-7954

STAFF Dianne Graham Executive Director execdir@horse.on.ca Ext. 19

Susan Bell Sr. Member Services Rep membership@horse.on.ca Ext. 14

Vicki Banks Chief Financial Officer finance@horse.on.ca Ext. 16

Andrea Nemeth Membership Services Rep member2@horse.on.ca Ext. 13

Catherine Barker Operations Manager opmgr@horse.on.ca Ext. 23

Coaching Gillian Ross Erasmi Coaching Coordinator education@horse.on.ca Ext.11

Melissa Monardo Marketing Manager marketing@horse.on.ca Ext. 17 Kim Banks Marketing Coordinator market2@horse.on.ca Ext. 22

Competitions Angelique Homan Competition Administrator competition@horse.on.ca Ext. 15 General horse@horse.on.ca

Copyright, including electronic, belongs to the OEF. All rights reserved. Articles and letters are welcome from all members but must be signed and include a phone number. The publisher reserves the right to edit articles and letters due to space restrictions.

The Ontario Equestrian Federation is the umbrella organization committed to equine welfare, and to providing leadership and support to individuals, associations and industries in Ontario's horse community.

Publication Dates Winter 2012 / deadline December 2 Spring 2012 / deadline February 10 Summer 2012 / deadline June 1 Fall 2012 / deadline September 7

Photo Credit: Holly Edmonds Photo provided by Martha Gayford

9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3J9 Tel: 905-709-6545 • Fax: 905-709-1867 Toll-free: 1-877-441-7112 • Email: horse@horse.on.ca

Photo credit: Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

Fall 2011 is published quarterly by ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION Ontario is the 4th largest equine industry in North America

Contents NEWS 4 President’s Message 4 Executive Director’s Message 6 Brand New OEF Council Members 6 OEF Association Council Update 6 OEF Office is Moving!

6 Promote Your Business in the 2012 Ontario Horse Directory 8 Equine Canada & OEF Launch New Recreational Program with First Series of Grants 10 Extended Memberships Are Now Available!

10 2012 Membership Renewals Available in November 12 OEF Model Member Award 14 OEF Provides Complimentary Memberships to Registered Charities 15 Australian Equestrian Royalty Visits Ontario 16 Ribbons for Rides 17 2012 OEF Youth Bursary Application 18 OEF Supports Ontario Riders participating in the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships 23 2012 OEF Partner Program MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 24 Success at Sunrise 26 Equestrian Icons – 1968 Olympic Gold Medal Jumping Team SAFETY FIRST 28 Wear a Helmet – It’s the Law in Ontario 29 Helmet Tales AROUND THE BARN 30 Barn Bullies MANE EVENTS 32 Notice of Annual General Meeting 34 2011 Competitions 34 Introducing New OEF Competition Administrator, Angelique Homan 37 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Feature COACHES CORNER 44 Introduction of New OEF Education Coordinator 44 Three Upcoming Education Opportunities ASK DR. BOB 46 Equine Herpes

ON THE TRAIL 48 Horse Trailering 49 Meeting A Horse On The Trail 49 Best Practices For Horses On The Trail ASK MIKE 50 Insurance 201: The Next Chapter LEGAL 52 Let’s Make A Deal: Purchasing A Horse GOING GREEN 54 Eco Labeling 101 NUTRITION 56 Winter Nutrition for Horses OBITUARY 58 Dr. Ralph Watt BREED & DISCIPLINE UPDATES 60 Mounted Games Interest Soars 61 Versatile Arabians Shine at Canadian Nationals 62 Canadian Pony Club D Rally – The Best of Beginnings 62 Canadian Sport Horse Association Profile: King Ridge Stables 63 Now Available! The Canadian Road Horse Association 40th Anniversary DVD 63 Ontario Competitive Trail Riding Association Update 64 Ontario Reining Horse Association 2011 Season Highlights 65 Ontario Morgan Horse Championship Classic – An Upbeat Event 65 TC Youth in the Spotlight Award 66 Tri-County Carriage Association 2011 Highlights EQUINE GUELPH RESEARCH UPDATE 67 Fall 2011

Cover photo by OEF Member, Linnéa Burgess

www.horse.on.ca | 3

President’s Message It is hard to believe that another summer has come and gone.

I am sure we all appreciated the great weather that allowed us the opportunity to spend more time outside with our horses.

Everyone here at the OEF has had a busy few months.

I am very pleased to announce that the OEF was able to help alleviate some of the financial burdens for the Ontario riders who competed at the North American Young and Junior Rider Championships (NAYJRC) in Kentucky this past July by assisting with their entry fees. Our Ontario riders had fantastic results and we are so proud of their accomplishments. Please read the article on page 18 for complete coverage.

One of the most outstanding news pieces from this past summer is that the six “out” provinces have agreed to rejoin Equine Canada (EC) and we will once again work to be “one” group with EC. A huge amount of work went into making this happen and a huge congratulations to all those involved, especially to our own, Gary Yaghdjian and Al Patterson.

Several other OEF representatives were on sub committee’s that helped make this happen (I am personally excited and encouraged by this action). As Equine Canada’s biggest and strongest ally, we at the OEF are definitely on track to service our members even better moving forward.

We are putting final plans together for the OEF One Day Clinic at the Royal Canadian Riding Academy (RCRA) on

October 22, 2011. Don’ miss out! The roster of clinicians is most impressive with Hyde Moffatt, Waylon Roberts, Jacqueline Brooks and Gary Yaghdjian teaching on their respective disciplines.

Following the clinic in October, the OEF Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be taking place at noon on November 26, 2011 at the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre in Mississauga, ON. Don’t forget to mark it on your calendar and attend.

The OEF is also pleased to announce that we will be hosting clinics throughout the upcoming Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (RAWF) in the Spirit of the Horse ring, which is managed by the OEF. Exciting names including Erynn Ballard, Gary Yaghdjian and Mark Todd are all part of the lineup. For more information about the Spirit of the Horse and the RAWF please refer to page 37.

Our goal at the OEF has, and always will be, to make things in the equine community better for you so that you can make it better for the horses that we love.

Enjoy!

Allan Ehrlick, President

Executive Director’s Message Fall, it’s in the air. It’s in the way the light filters through the trees casting shadows. It’s that crisp feeling in the morning, and for me it’s always been the Royal Winter Fair. This year in particular, I have been giving a great deal of thought as to what the Royal means to me and have come to the realization that throughout my life it has meant many different things.

As a small child, I remember my family putting on our finest gear and attending both Saturday evening Horse Show performances. It was a family ritual, with the excitement of the Roadsters, the thrill of the Nations Cup, the majesty of the Six-Horse Hitch and Four in Hand Coaches. I remember sitting with our thoroughbred trainer Mort Hardy listening to his patient explanations of the subtleties of hunters, and what to look for in the winners. He would explain how faults worked with Jumpers and what made a good hackney pony. A great horseman, over the years he provided my sister and I with a basic knowledge of the different disciplines. We would all play judges in our programs and compare our choices to the actual winners. It took me years to start to see the differentiations. What seems simple to me now, took a long time to develop, but my training began on those Saturday nights at the Royal Winter Fair Horse Show long ago.

Later on, I think of the Royal as a competitor, and of the anticipation and quite frankly, the stress that it involved.

As I was always a very nervous competitor, these are my least favorite memories. Later it became a social event with my horsey friends and later still, a place to show 4 | WHOA! Fall 2011

my children the extravaganza and see the magic through a child’s eyes. More recently, I had the great honor of watching my daughter being presented the Jane Hunter Memorial Award. This year it will be something yet again, representing the OEF and working at the Spirit of the Horse exhibit.

W ith s o m any c h an g es o ne thin g h as s t aye d constant in my thoughts. Over the years the Royal has represented a small window into a horse community where all the traditional silos and walls are eliminated, when a good horse is celebrated as a good horse no matter its breed or discipline. For ten days an environment of mutual respect between horsemen is created, and the one time in the year when each group comes out to demonstrate what they have to offer together, at one venue. It is a place where there is one consistent thought, the passion for the horse.

When I visit the Royal Horse Show now, I never think of who competed or who won that year, but to enjoy the spectacle itself. It represents a chance to visit and socialize with friends in all disciplines, some of whom I now only see at the Royal but have known for almost half a century. In many ways the Royal for me has become like a second home, a constant in my life. Never exactly the same, but the basic framework and the excitement are always there.

Dianne Graham, Executive Director

Oct. 20, 21 Oct. & 2220, 2

2011

2011

News Brand New OEF Council Members The OEF is pleased to introduce BRAND NEW 2011 Council members:

AFFILIATE Algoma Horse Association Bruce Mines Agriculture Society Southern Ontario Trailriders Club

INDUSTRY Barb Evans Argent, Royal LePage York North Realty, Brokerage Brubachers Harness Supplies Inc Elizabeth Crombie, Royal Lepage ProAlliance, Realty, Brokerage Sales Representative Equine Specialty Products Julia Penistan, EEBW, ESMT, MT Phoenix Performance Products/Tipperary RAM Equestrian Tannery Lane Tack and Supplies Please visit www.horse.on.ca to view a current listing of all OEF Council members and learn about the products and services they provide. The OEF appreciates the support that OEF Industry members provide, and encourages WHOA! readers to support OEF Industry and Horse Facilities members!

For more information on how you can promote your business please contact Melissa Monardo marketing@horse.on.ca, 1-887-441-7112 or 905-709-6545.

OEF Office is Moving!

We’ll be packing up the desks, phones and computers…The OEF office is going somewhere new, But we couldn’t go Without telling you!

Mark your calendars and adjust your address books! The OEF will be settling into new office space in the New Year.

More details will be announced in the Winter issue of WHOA! _

6 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Association Advisory Council Update

by Bonnie Simpson, Chair Mark your calendars and be sure to have a representative present at 12:0 0pm on Saturday November 26th, 2011 at the Delta Meadowvale Resort and Conference Centre to accept your association’s grant cheque during the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Following the OEF’s AGM the Association Advisory Council will hold its next meeting at 1:00pm at the Delta Meadowvale. I am pleased to announce that Al Will will be joining us as our guest speaker. Al has extensive knowledge on grant writing and will be on hand to provide everyone present with some good pointers to write your next grant request.

Currently the 2012 Grant Structure is being reviewed and information received will be distributed to associations in the New Year.

Be sure not to miss any of the following 2012 Association Advisory Council Meetings: • March 26, 2012 at 7:00pm in the new OEF office • May 28, 2012 at 7:00pm in the new OEF office • September 24, 2012 at 7:00pm in the new OEF office • Annual General Meeting, location and time to be announced We welcome all of your suggestions on guest speakers. Please send your idea’s to me at equestriantrails@hotmail.com.

I look forward to seeing you all at the AGM. _

Promote Your Business in the 2012 Ontario Horse Directory The Ontario Horse Directory is a great marketing tool to promote your business to Ontario’s horse industry. Copies of the Directory are distributed to all OEF members and are available at various tack shops and special events throughout the year. The Directory includes a list of organizations that belong to the following OEF Councils: Affiliate – saddle clubs, hunt clubs, trail groups, polo clubs, other not-for-profit organizations, etc.

Associations – all provincial breed and discipline groups

Horse Facilities – boarding stables, lesson stables, breeding farms, etc.

Industry – retailers, distributors, farriers, trainers, etc.

All listings include extensive contact information and descriptions of the various products and services provided. In addition, all Council members have the opportunity to advertise. The deadline to submit listing information and advertising copy is Friday November 4, 2011.

For more information about listing your business in the 2012 Ontario Horse Directory and other advertising opportunities please contact Melissa Monardo at marketing@horse.on.ca or 1-877-441-7112 ext. 17. _

I GOT GREAT STUFF AT PICOV’S!

At the Royal Winter Fair November 4th to 13th It’s Free!

Sling back Helmet bag with Charles Owen Helmet Purchase*

Half Chaps selected models Black or Brown (reg. up to $149.99)

(Valued at $38)

Royal Special $49.99*

“Ariat” Boots Ladies & Mens Paddock Boots, Zip or Lace. Western Boots & more.

Royal Special $79.99* (reg.$129 to $199)

Cottage Craft Half Lined Sheepskin Pad

Get 3 initials Embroidered free**

(reg.$119.99)

Tailored Sportsman Selected Coloured Breeches Royal Special $79.99*

Rugged Wear Turnout Waterproof and breathable high neck 1200 D, 200gm of fill or Goliath classic cut 1200D, 300gm of fill Size: 69”-84” Royal Special $89.99* (reg.up to $179.99)

Royal Special $49.99*

(reg. up to $169.99)

Lexington Jacket Waterproof and breathable Royal Special $79.99* (reg.$239.99)

“Tuscany” Italian Leather Field Boots (Boot shapers, and insoles included)

Bonus! Free Deluxe Boot Bag with Purchase* (Valued at $50)

Leather Halter Yearling, Cob, Horse or Xl. Bonus! Free leather lead With Purchase* (Valued at $32)

We now carry the Bucas Blankets.

Get a $20 Gift Card with every Bucas Blanket Purchase* Our Gift to you!

New! Baker Winter Turnout 300gm fill. 1200D Navy Blue. 68”- 84” Royal Special $159.99*

Get 3 initials Embroidered for free**

(reg.$239.99)

Baker Turnout Sheet No Fill Navy Blue Only.

Royal Special $119.99*

New! “Colour Burst” Saddle Pads Over 30 Colours To choose from.

A/P, C/C, Dressage and Pony Sizes. (reg.$32) Royal Special $19.99*

*While quantities last. Available at Picov’s “Royal Winter Fair Booth” only. No rain checks.

Quantities will be limited on some items. No substitutions. **SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

PICOV’S Where Horse People Come First

380 KINGSTON ROAD. EAST, AJAX, ON. L1Z 1W4 PH. (905) 686-0948 ,TOLL FREE: (800) 661 –9622 EMAIL: picovstackshop@on.aibn.com STORE HOURS: MON. TO SAT.: 10-6, SUN.: 12-5

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.picovs.ca

News

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Photo credit: Bruce Brown

This past July, the Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF), together with Equine Canada (EC), announced the first recipients of its new recreation funding program. Nine member clubs and associations received over $18,000 in phase one of the funding. A second application phase will see approximately $8,000 awarded for a total of $26,000 in recreation funding out to successful groups across Ontario.

Funding for recreational groups is a joint initiative with provincial federations to fund trail development and refurbishments, as well as education and safety programs for recreational riders. The funds have been made available as a result of an Equine Canada membership fee, which sees thirty per cent of the funds collected going back out to the provinces.

“The Ontario Equestrian Federation was thrilled with the response for the 2011 Recreation Funding Program,” reports OEF President Allan Ehrlick. “We are pleased to be able to provide funding for some very worthwhile projects that greatly benefit local equestrian communities throughout Ontario.”

The following groups received recreation funding money from the first round of applications: 1 Algoma Horse Association 2 Bruce Mines Agriculture 3 Ganaraska Forest Horse Club 4 Northern Lights Therapeutic Riding Association 5 Quinte St. Lawrence Branch (QSLB) CADORA 6 Women’s Horse Owners Association 7 Renaissance Riders Recreational Riding Club 8 Uxbridge Horseman’s Association 9 Wellington-Waterloo Hunt The second round of funding will be announced later this autumn. _

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Equine Canada & OEF Launch New Recreational Program with First Series of Grants

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News

Extended Memberships Are Now Available!

For a limited time, the OEF is pleased to provide you with the opportunity to purchase your 2011 membership at a prorated price. For those who have not joined or renewed in 2011, you can now purchase an extended membership that will allow you to receive member benefits for the remainder of this year and all of next year – including your automatic insurance coverage!

Extended memberships are available for all membership categories, excluding the OEF Associations Council. The extended memberships are priced as follows: Extended Adult Membership - $75 Extended Junior Membership (members 17 years of age or younger as of Jan.1, 2012) - $65 Extended Horse Facilities Council Membership - $200 Extended Industry Council Membership - $175 Extended Affiliate Membership - $125

Extended memberships are available September 1st of each year. To purchase an extended membership please visit www.horse.on.ca or contact our membership services team at 1-877-441-7112 or membership@ horse.on.ca / member2@horse.on.ca. We can not accept membership applications over the telephone.

2012 Membership Renewals Available in November

2012 OEF membership renewals will be sent out in the mail at the beginning of November. Please note that there will be some changes to the membership form for 2012 and it is important that you carefully read the form when completing it. Here are a few tips to make sure that your membership form is completed properly to ensure that your membership can be processed promptly and accurately.

Include your birth date – Due to your automatic insurance coverage we must have a record of your birth date.

Sign and date your form - please ensure that you sign and date your application form. We can not process any applications that are not signed and dated.

Privacy Policy – By law, you must give us permission to send you any correspondence that goes through a third party i.e. a mail house or email service. In the past, you were asked to cross out the paragraph stating the privacy policy if you did not permit us to send your address to a mail service.

This year, the application is now asking you to provide us permission by checking off a box. Please be sure to read the policy and answer accordingly.

If you do not check the box then we cannot send you OEF mailings that include WHOA!, the Ontario Horse Directory, email notices, etc.

Please note that the OEF DOES NOT sell its membership lists.

Submitting an Application – we can only accept membership forms that are completed online or hardcopies that are returned via fax, mail or in person. We cannot accept membership applications over the telephone.

Acceptable forms of payment are Visa, MasterCard, Cheque, Money Order or Cash (in person only).

Membership Key Tags Back by popular demand – the 2012 OEF Key Tags! In an effort to create an easier way for members to show proof of their OEF membership, the OEF introduced member key tags in 2011 and we are bringing them back for 2012. These tags will include the member’s full name, membership number and status (adult or junior) on the front side of the tag and the insurance policy information on the back side. These tags can be easily attached to your bridle, saddle, key chain etc. for a fast and convenient way to show your membership. All 2012 members will receive three tags along with their traditional membership card. _

10 | WHOA! Fall 2011

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News Ontario Equestrian Federation Model Member Award

All current OEF Members are eligible to make nominations and/or receive an OEF Model Member Award with the exception of OEF Staff, Board of Directors and immediate family members of Staff and Directors.

In an effort to acknowledge Model Members, the OEF will present all recipients with black wool coolers that comprise the OEF logo. Supplied

by Brubacher’s Harness and Saddlery, the coolers will be bestowed on the recipients during a special presentation arranged by the OEF.

Photo Credit: Debbie Goldring

The OEF is very pleased to announce a new and exciting award that will recognize outstanding individuals in the equestrian community, whether in sport, leisure, business or otherwise. The OEF Model Member Award will be bestowed on those that exemplify superior acts of good sportsmanship, benevolence, comradeship, etc. within the horse industry, regardless of discipline.

Please note that the OEF Model Member Award is a separate award from the OEF Annual Awards and can be presented at any time throughout the year. The OEF Model Member Award will only be presented to those who are most deserving. For more information please contact Catherine Barker at opmgr@horse.on.ca or 1-877-441-7112 ext.23.

Nominee’s Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________________________________________________ Postal Code: _________________________________________ Telephone: ______________________________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Nominated by: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________________________________________________ Postal Code: ________________________________________ Telephone: __________________________________________________________________ Email: ________________________________________ Please outline why you feel this person is deserving of the OEF Model Member Award. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3J9 • phone 905-709-6545 • fax 905-709-1867 • tollfree1-877-441-7112 • email opmgr@horse.on.ca • website www.horse.on.ca 12 | WHOA! Fall 2011

News OEF Provides Complimentary Memberships to Registered Charities The OEF recognizes the many financial burdens that therapeutic riding facilities and equine rescue/adoption organizations face in their day to day operations. The programs that they offer are vital components to the horse industry, but the cost of marketing and promoting these programs is expensive and a luxury that many can not afford. In an effort to help promote these programs in Ontario, the OEF is pleased to provide complimentary Council memberships to all therapeutic riding facilities and rescue/adoption facilities that have registered charity status.

Therapeutic Riding Facilities will be granted a complimentary Horse Facilities Council (HFC) Membership. The HFC provides support and marketing opportunities to commercial horse facilities that provide services such as riding lessons, boarding, therapeutic programs, sales, etc. All Horse Facilities Council Members must identify a representative who is a current individual OEF adult member.

The OEF will only promote facilities that have demonstrated a commitment to safety, education and animal welfare. To ensure that your facility values safe procedures, members must complete the Site Accreditation process that includes completing an Accreditation and Safety Standards checklist, and undergoing a Site Visit by an OEF representative. Once your facility has completed the Accreditation requirements, you will receive an OEF Horse Facilities Council sign to post on your property that will signify to the community that the facility meets OEF standards.

HFC Member Benefits include: • Text listing in the Ontario Horse Directory • Listing & hot link on OEF website • Exclusive opportunity to purchase advertising space in the Ontario Horse Directory • Exclusive opportunity to purchase advertising space in OEF newsletter, WHOA! • Distribute media releases and articles through the OEF • Display promotional literature with the OEF special events exhibit (including Can-Am and the RAWF) • The opportunity to join the OEF Partner Program • Referrals from the OEF Office • The opportunity to attend meetings to network with other equine businesses, learn from marketing professionals, discuss pertinent topics, etc.

• Signage to post at your facility and on your website Equine Rescue/Adoption Organizations will be offered a complimentary Affiliate Membership. The Affiliate Membership provides support and marketing opportunities to equine related groups and/or organizations in Ontario including local riding clubs, trail development groups, rescue/adoption organizations, etc. excluding provincial breed and discipline associations. All Affiliate Members must identify a representative who is a current individual adult member.

All Affiliate Members are eligible to apply for the OEF Recreation Funding program. The funding is intended for educational programs that could include seminars, guest speakers, safety courses, and the health and welfare of the horse. In addition, trail development initiatives such as creating new equestrian trails, upgrading existing trails, building bridges, staging areas, trail improvement for the safety of horse and rider, etc. are also eligible. The funding program is designed to match funds dollar for dollar and applicants must provide proof of matching funds for their program. The OEF Recreation Council has the right to cap funds at their discretion.

Affiliate Member Benefits include: • Text listing in the Ontario Horse Directory • Listing & hot link on OEF website • Exclusive opportunity to purchase advertising space in the Ontario Horse Directory • Exclusive opportunity to purchase advertising space in OEF newsletter, WHOA! • Distribute media releases and articles through the OEF • Display promotional literature with the OEF special events exhibit (including Can-Am and the RAWF) • The opportunity to join the OEF Partner Program • Referrals from the OEF Office • The opportunity to attend meetings to network with other equine businesses, learn from marketing professionals, discuss pertinent topics, etc.

• Signage to post at your facility and on your website _ For more information or to apply for a complimentary Council membership please contact Catherine Barker at opmgr@horse.on.ca or 1-877-441-7112 ext.23.

14 | WHOA! Fall 2011

News Australian Equestrian Royalty Visits Ontario In June the OEF and Canada's Outdoor Equine Expo were pleased to host Australia’s Wayne “Patch” Roycroft for a truly Ontario equine experience.

Recently retired as coach of the Australian Eventing Team, Wayne came to Ontario as part of the world-class line-up of clinicians for Canada's Outdoor Equine Expo, which ran the second week in June, 2011 at the Iron Horse Equestrian Complex south of Milton.

Australia’s Equestrian Team coached by Roycroft has been a powerhouse at every world-class competition, including Olympic gold medals in Barcelona (1992), Atlanta (1996), and Sydney (2000). Wayne is a member of the Roycroft dynasty, which has seen him compete as a rider along with his brother and father Bill in at least three earlier Olympics.

An epic eventing story involves Wayne’s father Bill Roycroft in the Cross Country phase at the Rome 1960 Olympics and is best told by John Rumble in the book, Canada’s International Equestrians: Roycroft was anchorman for his team… the total onus was on him to go clean. Two jumps from the end was a jump made of sewer pipes at the top of a hill, with the end of the pipe facing the horse so that he could see through into nothing. Roycroft riding a “pony” of 14.3 hands, or at the most 15 hands, hit the top…the horse rolled over and over down the hill, leaving his rider with a broken collarbone and unconscious.

Some Australians…fetched the horse back… shook Roycroft to semi-consciousness, lifted him onto the horse, put his arms around the horse’s neck and pointed him in the direction of the next jump…two to do before crossing the finishing line which he did, before falling off once more unconscious. He was taken to hospital immediately. Something happened to one of the other Austrailian horses, so next day Roycroft was driven by ambulance to the Piazza de Sienna where the jumping was to take place.

His arm was in a sling but he rode his little horse like a cow pony…neck-reined it and used his body weight… they had a clear round and Australia won the gold medal. He then went back to the hospital.

Someone who was present also has said that they took the equine oxygen mask and held it to his face before they threw him back on. An incredible story that made Bill Roycroft a legend in Australia.

Wayne Roycroft has been a visionary and

dedicated advocate for the sport of Eventing on an International level. In 2000, he was elected as Chairman of the FEI Eventing Committee, serving a nine-year term. At one point the future of eventing at the Olympic games was under threat and Roycroft was instrumental in revising the format to the satisfaction of the International Olympic Committee. The equestrian portion of the Olympics would have lost a vital component without eventing and can be grateful for his efforts.

An Olympic medal winner himself, Wayne was coach of the Australian Three Day event team for over twenty-two years and has worked extensively with some of the most respected horsemen in the world. He is quite simply, Equestrian Royalty, yet as my husband pointed out, he is the most humble, nonjudgemental, gracious man you will ever meet.

My children will forever have the memory of sitting on our couch in track pants, with Wayne giving them riding tidbits and ideas, discussing concepts, asking their opinions, giving them the same respect and attention as if they were team Olympic members.

Wayne’s passion is working with the next generation of riders and wishes to make this the focus of the next phase of his professional career. He feels that you can spend huge amounts of time with advanced riders to get that slight edge, while with the young riders you can see immediate results by implementing some basic concepts. “My main aim here is transferring the knowledge I’ve learned over the years, particularly from the Olympic Games, to the riders and coaches,” said Roycroft. “It’s a transfer of information from the experts right back to the grassroots level, which will eventually improve the whole system.” He derives enormous personal satisfaction from watching his clinician’s progress in the time he spends with them.

It was Lorie Jocius, President of Canada's Outdoor Equine Expo who contacted Roycroft in Australia with the idea of conducting some clinics at her June event. She was thrilled that Roycroft agreed to make the journey to Ontario.

Wayne’s clinics proved to be a highlight of the Expo and created a legion of new Roycroft fans.

Roycroft worked with horses and riders at the pre-training and training level, with participants coming from a variety of backgrounds from Pony Clubbers to pleasure riders to serious competitors. A couple of participants were even hunter/jumper riders who recognized what a

Photo Credit: Canada's Outdoor Equine Expo

by Dianne Graham

great opportunity it was to ride under the direction of such a recognized equestrian coach.

The bleachers were packed with riders and coaches of all levels. The sessions were focused on either stadium jumping or cross-country, but Roycroft ensured that each horse and rider team had a good dressage foundation in order to set them up for a successful jumping lesson.

In addition to Roycroft's three days at Canada’s Outdoor Equine Expo, the Canadian Young Event Horse hosted Roycroft at Equus 3D Equestrian Centre, as did the OHTA Coaching Committee at Dreamcrest Stables.

During his stay the OEF also hosted Roycroft with visits to breeding farms, Woodbine Race Track and a day at Palgrave where he saw his first Hunter classes. While he had heard descriptions of the concept from his friend, George Morris, he had never actually seen a class. Working Hunters are unique to Canada and the U.S. Wayne recognized the skill and discipline involved and thought that there were elements he could introduce to Australia. His inquisitive nature was infectious with everything he saw and it reminded me not for the first time, of what an incredible equine showcase Ontario is able to offer visitors from around the world.

Hopefully this will be the first of many visits to Canada for Wayne Roycroft. He brings not only vast competition and coaching experience, but also simple good sportsmanship and horse sense. Riders and coaches of every discipline and level can benefit from his wealth of knowledge.

The 2012 Canada’s Outdoor Equine Expo will be held June 8, 9 & 10, 2012 at the Iron Horse Equestrian Complex in Burlington, Ontario. For more information, visit www.EquineExpo.ca and watch the new COEE Video. _ www.horse.on.ca | 15

News

Ribbons for Rides The Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF) and the Ontario Therapeutic Riding Association (OnTRA) are proud to announce that they are teaming up to introduce a new program entitled, “Ribbons for Rides”. The program is available to all therapeutic riders in Ontario and is there is no cost to participate.

Every time a rider completes any Federation International Equestre (FEI) Para Dressage test he or she will receive a ribbon. For every test completed the participating rider will receive the next placing, for the opportunity to achieve a champion rosette: Test #1 – eighth place ribbon – brown Test #2 – seventh place ribbon – purple Test #3 – sixth place ribbon – pink Test #4 – fifth place ribbon – green Test #5 – fourth place ribbon – yellow Test #6 – third place ribbon – white Test #7 – second place ribbon – blue Test #8 – firth place ribbon – red Test #9 – Reserve Champion rosette Test #10 – Champion rosette

In appreciation of the time and ef for t that riders put into completing ten tests, the OEF is pleased to arrange to have the champion rosettes signed by the rider of the recipient’s choosing!

The program is open to all therapeutic riders and all parents, instructors, facilities or riders themselves are encouraged to contact the OEF Office to register for the program. There is absolutely no cost to participate.

Equestrian Management Group (EMG) is generously donating the ribbons and will be providing donation boxes at competitions held at the Caledon Equestrian Park in 2012. All competitors are encouraged to donate any ribbons of their choosing! Thank you to all those who donated ribbons this year, especially to Wayne McLellan, Scott and Anne McKay and to the group of young girls who made a great effort to track Dianne down at the show!

To access the Para Dressage tests please visit: http://www.fei.org/disciplines/officials- organisers/organisers/ para-equestrian-dressage/dressage-tests For more information about the Ribbons for Rides program please contact Melissa Monardo at marketing@horse.on.ca or Viki LaComb at president@ontra.ca. _

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e nsor Spo ons Ribb by EMG

16 | WHOA! Fall 2011

ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION 2012 YOUTH BURSARY PROGRAM A P P L I C A T I O N

DEADLINE: applications must be received in the OEF Office by 4:00pm on Friday December 2nd, 2011 IMPORTANT: The application must be completed IN FULL and accompanied by all required original documentation by December 2nd, 2011 in order to be considered for a 2012 Youth Bursary. Faxed or emailed applications will NOT be accepted.

Applications received after the due date will not be eligible. All information provided will remain strictly confidential.

CRITERIA FOR APPLYING:

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 OEF Junior member in good standing between the ages of 14 and 17 as of January 1 , 2012 (2012 OEF membership application for yourself and your coach must accompany your 2012 Youth Bursary application in order to be valid)

 Currently attending high school in the Province of Ontario APPLICANT INFORMATION: Name:

OEF Membership #:

Date of Birth:

Province:

Postal Code:

Address: City: Phone:

Fax:

mm / dd / yy

Email: TOTAL Gross Household Income/Support:

Parent/Guardian:

(Household income/support must be stated or application is incomplete)

Total # of Adults In Household:

$

Total # of Children/Youth In Household:

List any special Awards/Recognition received: Areas of Equine Interest (i.e. Hunter, Jumper, Eventing etc): How are most of your equestrian endeavours paid for?

What challenges do you face in pursuing your hobby?

Yourself Money

Parents Transportation

Other: Other:

APPLICANT’S COACH:

(Equine Canada certified coaches are recommended. Coach MUST BE an OEF Adult member in good standing – 2012 OEF membership application must accompany this 2012 Youth Bursary application in order to be valid Coach Name:

OEF Membership #:

Phone:

Email:

RIDING EXPERIENCE: None Lessons with a coach?

EC Certification:

** Please include a reference letter from your current coach ** Little

Member of a school team?

Yes

Moderate No

Experienced If yes, how long

Yes

No

If yes, what sport(s)

SCHOOL INFORMATION: High School Name: 1.

Address:

Phone #: Fax #: Please provide an original copy of recent report card detailing your Grade, Subjects and most recent Marks and have your Principal sign and date

ESSAYS REQUIRED: 1.

2.

In 200 words or less, please describe your interest and experience with horses (attach a separate sheet) In 200 words or less, please indicate how you would spend the bursary funds if they were awarded to you (attach a separate sheet)

PICTURE:

A current, non-returnable, colour photo of yourself (head and shoulders or in-action with horse) must accompany your youth bursary application.

LOCAL MEDIA:

Please list the names of your local media (community newspapers etc.)

1.

3.

2.

4.

RELEASE FORM: I,

(parent/guardian)

, acknowledge that

(applicant)

is applying to the Ontario Equestrian Federation’s Youth Bursary Program. I hereby consent to his/her involvement in this Program. It is recommended that he/she attend an approved riding facility to receive coaching in horse-related skills. This is to certify that the information provided is accurate and the applicant and parent/guardian agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the Ontario Equestrian Federation.

Publicity Agreement: I hereby give permission to the OEF to use the name and/or photo of my son/daughter in conjunction with the OEF Youth Bursary Program being reported in the OEF newsletter, WHOA!, and in articles or reports of activities used on the radio or in newspapers, magazines, the OEF website, or other media which may be utilized by the OEF for publicity or communication purposes. .

Signature:

(applicant)

Signature:

(parent/guardian)

Please send completed application to:

Date: Date:

Ontario Equestrian Federation, 9120 Leslie St., Suite 203, Richmond Hill, ON , L4B 3J9 Phone: 905-709-6545  Fax: 905-709-1867  Tollfree: 1-877-441-7112  Email: horse@horse.on.ca  Web: www.horse.on.ca

News

OEF Supports Ontario Riders participating in the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) While the Ontario Equestrian Federation provided tangible support to all 26 riders participating in the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) by paying their entry fees, we would also like to recognize and congratulate their extraordinary achievement in being selected to participate as well as their successes at the event.

26 Junior and Young Riders were selected to attend the FEI 2011 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships on July 28 – 31, in Lexington, Kentucky.

Dressage Bronwyn Barlow Cash – Brantford, ON Alexandra Dvorak – Hillsburgh, ON Jonah Freedman – Toronto, ON Noemie Gagnon-Bergeron – Kanata, ON Megan Lane – Collingwood, ON Ashley Phipps – Nepean, ON Anneka Sutton – Drumbo, ON Kristen Sutton – Drumbo, ON

Eventing Christian Bennett – Sutton West, ON William Dow – Flesherton, ON Sable Geisler – Powassan, ON Liza Igochine – King City, ON Haley Laframboise-Armstrong – Orangeville, ON Brook Pickering – Thornton, ON April Simmonds – Uxbridge, ON

Endurance Lee Hutten – Chesterville, ON Emma Webb – Flesherton, ON

Jumping Sarah Bagworth – King City, ON Jake Krembil – Schomberg, ON Jacqueline Steffens – Harriston, ON Miranda Trvers-Cavill – Claremont, ON

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Reining Starr Boisvert – Chatsworth, ON Lyndsay Kloster – Mount Albert, ON Darcy Wilson – Goodwood, ON Emily Wilson - Goodwood, ON Lane Wilson – Goodwood, ON

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g Zoe Beckerman, a c andidate for the team who was not named to ride, received a $500 OHJA Rider Development Bursary to a t te n d N A J Y R C i n r e c o g n i t i o n o f her volunteer contribution to the OHJA magazine and fundraising for Young Riders.

Chef d'equipe Hyde Moffat, for the Ontario Junior and Young Riders’ jumping teams may have put it best, “It’s an eye opener into the world of high performance sport that carries through later in life. It was a really good opportunity for the kids to learn and it sets them up for the rest of their competitive careers.” Hyde was rewarded for his efforts not only by the success of the team, but was also awarded the Ralph Caristo Award for Best Chef d'equipe.

18 | WHOA! Fall 2011

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Sarah Bagworth of King City won the Sportsmanship Award, marking the first time a show jumping rider has received the award.

Championship Highlights Dressage – Anneka Sutton finished in 8th place on her 13 -year- old Westphalian gelding Fidelio with a Freest yle score of 6 5.8 5%, and Alexandra Dvorak riding Fling, an 11-yearold Westphalian gelding placed 11th with a score of 64.30%. The Ontario Young Rider Dressage Team, comprised of Bronw yn Barlow Cash, Alexandra Dvorak and Megan Lane finished in 5th place with 193.184.

News

Ashley Phipps and Dark Dandy at the jog

Eventing – The Young Rider Two Star Championships Division, Team Canada, included Christian Bennett and William Dow, along with two other Canadian riders, won the team bronze medal. Bennet had a perfect cross country ride with Rolex, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding he co-owns with Kaitlyn Bennett.

They dropped two rails in jumping to finish in 10th place. Dow and Midleton, an 11-year old Sport Horse gelding that he co-owns with Suzanne Dow earned a 14th place.

The Ontario Junior One Star Championship Division Team, comprised of Haley Armstrong-Laframboise, Sable Geisler, Brook Pickering and April Simmonds won the bronze medal.

Geisler and her own Evil Munchkin, an 8-year-old Holsteiner gelding, won the silver medal. Pickering rode Abbey Rhode, her 13-year-old Trakehner gelding to win the bronze medal, and Simmonds and Sunday Best, an 8-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, finished 19th.

Photo Credit: Dressage: Robert Cash Eventing: Linda Plank Jumping: Zoe Frances Beckerman Endurance: Wendy Webb

One Star Eventing Team

Ontario Young Riders Dressage Team: Megan Lane, Alexandra Dvorak, Kristen Sutton, Bronwyn Barlow-Cash

Eventing

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Dressage

Ontario Junior Dressage Team: Jonah Freedman, Anneka Sutton, Noemie GagnonBergeron, Ashley Phipps

Bronze Medal One Star Team

Two dads, Tom Dvorak and Gary Freedman, playing groom to Fling

Two Star Eventing Team

Brook Pickering

Bronze Medal Two Star Team

Eventing Team Mascot, Floyd

Bronze Medal Two Star Team

Linda Plank, Peter Gray, Caroline Morshead

William Dow

www.horse.on.ca | 19

News

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Reining

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Jumping

Daphne Picard and Little Milton

Lane Wilson

(L to R) Jake Krembil, Miranda Travers-Cavill, Sarah Bagworth, Daphne Picard, Hyde Moffatt, Jaqueline Steffens

Sarah Bagworth and Untouchable

Jacqueline Steffens and Quercus van Generhese

Sarah Bagworth receiving the Sportsmanship award

Jake Krembil and W Marco Polo Flandria

Hyde Moffatt receiving the chef d'equipe award from Ralph Caristo

(L to R) Juan Ortiz, Sarah Bagworth, Hyde Moffatt, Cathy Inch, Jake Krembil, Miranda Travers-Cavill walking the course

20 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Miranda Travers-Cavill and Legende de B'Neville

Reining In the Junior Rider division, Lane Wilson won the gold medal on No Finer Shiner, Mark Lipfield ’s 10 - year- old Quar ter Horse Stallion. Emily Wilson earned the individual bronze medal riding Miss Cielo Chex, Tamalyn Wilson’s 9-year-old Quarter Horse Mare.

T he Junior Ontario Team of L ane Wilson and Emily Wilson finished in 2nd place.

The Young Rider program is open to all interested competitors between the ages of 14 and 21, and is organized by the various provincial rider discipline organizations.

We want to recognize and thank the chef d'equipes for each of the teams participating in the NA JYRC in 2011.

Hyde Moffat was chef d’equipe for the Jumping Team, Wendy D yer for the Reining Team, Colette Hutten for the Endurance Team and Ellen Dvorak for the Dressage Team. In the Eventing discipline, Caroline Morshead was the Two Star Alberta/Quebec and Ontario Combined Team chef d’equipes, and Linda Plank was chef d'equipe for the One Star Ontario Team. _ Marc Nicols and the Equestrian Factory Outlet sponsored riders and grooms w i t h t e a m a t t i re . T h e O HJ A a l s o contributed a portion of the cost of the John Madden Spring Clinic, as well as the cost of the stall, bedding and hay at NAJYRC, an FEI vet for the pre-NAJYRC horse inspection and a $ 5 0 0 Rider Development Bursary.

News

Endurance Team at the Opening Ceremonies

Endurance Lee Hutton and Jazz

Lee Hutton and Emma Webb

Lee Hutton, Emma Webb and Jessica Yavis

E Q U E S T R I A N

22 | WHOA! Fall 2011

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News

2012 OEF Partner Program A successful marketing plan encompasses various mediums to effectively deliver an organization’s message to its target audiences.

The OEF is pleased to offer Council members the opportunity to participate in the OEF Partner program. There is a price point to accommodate all budgets and benefits that can be customize to meet all needs.

COPPER PARTNER PACKAGE Opportunity to participate in virtual goodie bag Logo recognition on OEF website for one year Logo recognition in four issues of WHOA! Small text recognition on OEF events banner Recognition in OEF print material TOTAL VALUE

BRONZE PARTNER PACKAGE 1 x 1/4 page ad in OEF publications (or multiple ads equaling the same size) Opportunity to participate in virtual goodie bag Logo recognition on OEF website for one year Logo recognition in four issues of WHOA! Medium text recognition on OEF events banner Recognition in OEF print material TOTAL VALUE

SILVER PARTNER PACKAGE 1 x full page ad in OEF publications (or multiple ads equaling the same size) Opportunity to participate in virtual goodie bag Logo recognition on OEF website for one year Logo recognition in four issues of WHOA! Small logo recognition on OEF events banner Recognition in OEF print material TOTAL VALUE

GOLD PARTNER PACKAGE 2 x full page ads in OEF publications (or multiple ads equaling the same size) Opportunity to participate in virtual goodie bag Logo recognition on OEF website for one year Logo recognition in four issues of WHOA! Logo recognition on OEF events banner Recognition in OEF print material TOTAL VALUE

$250 = $500 = $120 = $300 = $300 = $100 = $1,320

PLATINUM PARTNER PACKAGE $5,000 4 x full page ads in OEF publications = $5,760 Opportunity to participate in virtual goodie bag = $500 Logo recognition on homepage of OEF website for one year = $4,320 Logo recognition in four issues of WHOA! = $300 Prominent logo recognition on OEF events banner = $1,600 Recognition in OEF print material = $500 Logo recognition in all email broadcasts sent to OEF members = $2,000 Opportunity to use OEF Social Media Sites for promotion = $1,000

$500 TOTAL VALUE = $630 = $500 = $120 = $300 = $400 = $100 = $2,050

For more information about the OEF Partner Program and/or any other marketing questions you may have please contact Melissa Monardo at marketing@horse.on.ca or 1-877-441-7112 ext.17.

pro•RODEO! VE MBE R O N

$1,200 = $1,440 = $500 = $120 = $300 = $1,000 = $100 = $3,460

$2,500 = $2,880 = $500 = $120 = $300 = $1,300 = $100 = $5,200

= $15,980

5

TH

&

6

TH

pro rodeo events & details:

• Join us for this exciting 2 day family & community event!

• Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling & More!

• Fill the Bucking Shoots’ for the Huron County Food Bank with your nonperishable food donation

rodeo admission prices:

• $20.00 each/ $70.00 for a Family of Four • Saturday Evening ‘Jumbotron’ BARN DANCE: $10.00 • Food Concession & FULLY LICENSED BAR! • Bring the Family & Come for the Whole Weekend!

hosted at reach huron, November 5th & 6th, Starting @ 2:00pm for tickets contact reach huron: 519 606 1482 or admin@reachhuron.ca Presented By:

HOSTED @ reach huron 169 beech street • clinton, ON

www.horse.on.ca | 23

Member Profile

SUCCESS AT SUNRISE

by Anne Caine

How many of us jump on a horse and enjoy a pleasure ride or enter a competition, without a great deal of thought about what it would be like if riding for us was not as easy? I would guess the majority of OEF members.

For over twenty-nine years the staff and volunteers at Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre, just south of Guelph, have been ensuring that children and adults with special needs experience the freedom and empowerment that riding a horse provides.

Some of our children and parents would like to share their stories with you.

Sherri – mother of Marissa writes:

My daughter Marissa has a global developmental delay that affects her gross and fine motor skills and speech. Marissa has struggled since she was 7 months old to obtain the developmental milestones that most children obtain with ease. She still to this day does not walk independently, cannot manipulate a fork, and has no speech.

Through riding at Sunrise Marissa has made gains. Her strength, coordination and balance have improved, because of the natural motion of the horse. She has learned to hold onto objects for more than a few moments through the games that her instructor and Occupational Therapist created for her. Even the lines of communication are opened by simple signs for "walk on" and "halt". To see these "miracles" happening before your very eyes leaves you, as a parent indebted to this program.

Marissa's fantastic achievements certainly make the two hour drive, once a week, worthwhile. There is also more to appreciate – during the drive down at a particular point Marissa will realize the anticipation of arriving at Sunrise and her giggles and hand clapping are a sure sign that she truly enjoys her lesson. Having a child that is non-verbal you often wonder if she is happy. What does she like? I can honestly say there is no question that she LOVES riding.

24 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Michael’s mom Lisa writes:

Michael was born 11 weeks early. He spent the first 7 weeks of his life in the hospital. He was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at 9 months. To this day he can not sit, or walk independently. Michael sees a physio, occupational therapist, speech therapist and many other specialists. After hearing that horse-back riding was an excellent way to strengthen his muscles, Sunrise became a part of our lives when Michael was 4. He is now 12 years old.

Each week Michael rides at Sunrise and little by little I have been able to see the difference it has made for him. I do remember the early days when he would get upset and give up. Now, Michael is so excited when we arrive at Sunrise that he can hardly wait to get on his horse. He is unable to talk, but everyone can sure hear him laugh and squeal when we are in the barn. He smiles, he laughs and he works hard. Sunrise is a very important part of his progress to strengthen his muscles while having fun.

I love watching him sitting high on his horse while his wheelchair sits off to the side. Sunrise brings a little independence to his life....something that is so hard for him to have on a day-to-day basis.

Member Profile

Michael’s speech to his classmates through his computer:

Have you ever noticed that every Friday morning I arrive late to school? And what do you suppose I could be doing while all of you are here?

You may be surprised to hear that Friday mornings I’m in training for horseback riding! But this is no ordinary “horseback training” because this particular type of riding is designed to help me gain strength for my special needs! It’s called “therapeutic” riding. I have been riding for 8 years—since I was 4 years old. The horse I ride at Sunrise is an Appaloosa named “Petey”. Every time I ride him, I have 3 volunteers: One to lead the horse and 2 sidewalkers to help me keep my balance. I love riding Petey because it gives me the opportunity to get out of my chair! My lesson is 30 minutes, and uses so much of my energy to sit tall and keep my head up. After that workout, believe me, I am ready for a long rest and that is when I appreciate going back to my chair again.

If you are observant you may have noticed that when I arrive on Friday’s I’m pretty tired. But you should know that it’s a “good-kind-of tired” because I love horseback riding!

Michael and Petey at Sunrise Everyone needs to find something they love to do and for me, it’s riding my horse Petey!

Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre

Mark—father of a son with physical and cognitive disabilities:

Sean and Petey at Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre

From the time my son Sean was born and it was clear that he would have special challenges in his life; neighbours had been telling us about this great place called Sunrise. As our son grew, I spent many tearful hours in physical therapy. Sunrise, I hoped, would be dif ferent. Well I couldn’t have been more thrilled. From the first day of Sean’s assessment, the friendly and supportive staff made us feel that our special needs family would fit in here.

As Sean was placed on Petey and began his first trip around the arena, you could see a special bond start to form between them, and the only tears that were shed were by me.

My son looked like such a big boy and was doing therapy that was finally fun and what he wanted to be doing.

I apologized to Ann, the director, for my emotion and she said to me simply “Don’t worry about it; we see a lot of happy tears around here.” In that instant I knew how great Sunrise Therapeutic Program was, and that we would have many happy years here.

S u nr i s e i s a re g i s te re d C a n a d i a n charit y and accredited member centre of the C anadian T herapeutic Riding A ssociation (C anT R A ). T here are over 10 0 similar member centres across the country. All instructors are Canadian certified. Sunrise is a national and international training centre for Therapeutic Riding Instructors.

For further information phone (519) 8370558 or visit our website: www.sunrisetherapeutic.ca.

www.horse.on.ca | 25

Equestrian Member Spotlight

ICONS

Canada has enjoyed great success in stadium jumping throughout recent years but that was not always the case.

In fact, Canada did not even have a jumping team on the world stage until the 1968 Olympics, but what a team that turned out to be. Their fellow competitors considered them “little fish”, but as Churchill once said about another historic group of Canadians, “Some Fish” they turned out to be.

In the early 1960’s Jim Elder got a group of his equestrian friends together and decided to build an international style jumping course at his Elderberry farm. They built the course using pictures in a book and from watching movies from the 1956 and 1960 Olympic show jumping events. The venue was a field that was shaped as a natural amphitheater with sloping sides, perfect for spectators. Each year riders would come out and build the jumps and dig ditches for what was to be the first North American Grand Prix. For those who helped construct the course, they could participate in a “Training Day” where they could come and school their horses over their handiwork. These jumps included a canoe hanging from a branch, an MG car, a four-foot chicken coop and a picnic table complete with mannequins having lunch and drinking the sponsor’s brand of beer. This event would draw a few thousand people and all proceeds were donated to the Canadian Jumping team.

During the early years Canada’s jumping team had very little international experience. They were limited to the Nations Cup indoor circuit comprised of The Royal Winter Fair, Madison Square Gardens, Harrisburg and Washington.

The Canadians were always considered the underdogs and would learn from the Europeans by asking them about what bits and equipment they used and how they would ride a type of line, never considered any kind of threat by the great European powerhouses of the time. That was all to change.

Brigadier W. D. Whitaker, president of the 26 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Canadian Equestrian Team, said that if the team did well in the 1967 Pan Am Games he would find a way to send them to the Olympics the following year in Mexico. When the team won a Bronze he made good on his promise. A team comprised of Jim Elder, Tom Gayford, Jim Day and Torchy Millar, with Peter Harris as the chef d'equipe was sent to Mexico. This was the first Olympic Jumping team in Canada’s history.

The team jumping event was held in the main Olympic stadium with one hundred thousand spectators. The original course was designed in Europe and was sent to Mexico to be constructed to the designers exacting specifications. The problem was that the designer failed to take into account the other permanent structures, which circled the stadium such as the running track, and long jump pits.

The course had to be set inside the track making the measurements of the original design impossible. The resulting course was a much more compact field of huge jumps with off striding and very tight and twisting turns.

This was before the current height and width limits. Some of the fences were six feet high with seven-foot spreads. The construction included solid walls and heavy oak poles. There was a four or five stride line to a vertical, a one stride to a huge wall and then a one stride to an oxer. Because of the off striding, if you went for the four strides

you were long and would flatten out over the wall and if you went for the 5 strides your horse would land in a heap and you would lose your momentum to get over the next fences. As a result, totals for each rider were like basketball scores. There were no cleans and the horses were physically and mentally exhausted.

Jim Elder was the last of the Canadians to go. He describes what it was like coming into the stadium, “you could hear the hum of the crowd in the air, feel your horse’s heart pumping and the size of the jumps was simply overwhelming”. Jim went on to put in a spectacular ride assuring the Canadians, the unquestionable underdogs of the competition, the Gold medal in their inaugural Olympic Games. The medals were awarded in the stadium and the Canadian Anthem was played.

It would be 16 years before Canada would win another Gold medal in the Olympic Games,

Photos provided by Martha Gayford

Member Spotlight

and 40 years before Canada would win another Olympic Gold in an Equestrian Event.

What is equally amazing is that this was done on horses with a combined purchase price total of $1900. Tom Gayfords’s horse “Big Dee” was purchased for $400 from Fort Erie Race Track, Jim Day’s “Canadian Club” was picked out of a field in Orangeville as a three year old, Jim Elder’s horse “Immigrant” was a riding school horse and Torchy Millar’s horse “Beefeater” was a Thoroughbred from England. These horses had limited international experience, but what they all had was heart. Horses and riders rose to the occasion, surpassing anyone’s expectations.

Jim will say, “he and Tom just stand and drool over the class of horses at world events today”.

They just rode what was available at the time.

Even though victorious, the win was, in international circles, considered a fluke. It was thought that the Canadians had been lucky because of the reduced ring size. Europeans usually showed in huge venues where they could get momentum to the fences, while the Canadians were used to the relatively small rings of the local fairs and indoor events. They

had experience piloting tight turns and short approaches to large fences, so they still felt they had something to prove.

In 1970, in La Baule France, the Canadian Team won the World Championship. The Team consisted of Jim Elder, Jim Day, Tom Gayford and Moffat Dunlap. For Jim Elder this was “the sweetest victory of all”. The Canadians beat the Europeans with their experienced expensive horses, in their venue, at their game. It was here that they demonstrated that they were now a solid force on the international scene.

The original team members went on to be individually successful in later years.

• Jim Elder continued his equestrian career and became a dedicated humanitarian and respected businessman. He worked tirelessly with the Canadian Association of Riding for the Disabled and Big Brothers.

For his incredible contribution to sport and community, Elder was named an Officer of the Order of Canada and has been inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.

• Torchy Millar represented Canada in 23 Nation’s Cup events, won 27 Grand Prix and

was the chef d'equipe of many of Canada’s Jumping teams including the 2008 Beijing Silver medal team.

• Tom Gayford remained involved in the equestrian world throughout the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s as a coach, consultant, judge, and course designer. He designed the jumping course for the 1976 Montreal Olympics and served as chef d’equipe for the national team from 1978-96.

• Jim Day became the thoroughbred trainer for Sam-Son Farms, helping build the farm into one of the top racing and breeding operations in North America. He is the four-time recipient of the Sovereign award as Canada’s top trainer.

• Moffat Dunlap became one of Ontario’s leading realtors, specializing in rural properties. Over the years he has served as a Director of The Canadian Equestrian Team, Canadian Pony Club, Canadian Horse Council, Horseman’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Canadian Therapeutic riding Association and Past President of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.

• J i m E l d e r is insistent th at a g re at deal of credit should be directed to “the many owners who had the vision and the faith to keep going, because for all the highlights, there were many lowlights”. He thanks those owners for helping people like himself, to follow their dreams and help in putting Canada on the equestrian world stage. He also wants young riders to continue to keep trying and not be afraid of failure, because sometimes you can to succeed where you may never have thought it possible.

The OEF is proud to honor Jim Elder, along with Tom Gayford, Jim Day, Torchy Millar and Moffat Dunlap as OEF Industry Icons. Their accomplishments and dedication to Equestrian sport throughout their lives has set an incredible standard for the Industry. _ www.horse.on.ca | 27

Safety First

WEAR A HELMET –

IT’S THE LAW IN ONTARIO! Bill 12 Horse Riding Safety Act-2001 An Act to increase the safety of equestrian riders.

Responsibility of establishment (1) No owner or operator of a horse riding establishment shall permit any rider under the age of 18 years to ride any horse boarded by the rider in the stables of the establishment or transported by the rider to the establishment unless the rider has and is correctly using the following equipment in the manner that it was designed to be used: 1. A helmet that meets current standards for equipment designed and manufactured for use while riding horses as established by the American S o c i e t y o f Te s t i n g a n d Materials (ASTM), the British Standards Institute (BSI) or the European Safety Standards.

2.Hard soled footwear with a heel of no less than 1.5 centimeters.

3.Tack properly fitted on the horse.

(2) No owner or operator of a horse riding establishment shall permit any rider under the age of 18 years to ride any horse hired out by the establishment, unless the rider has and is correctly using the equipment described in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 of subsection (1) in the manner that it was designed to be used.

Availability of equipment

(3) E ve r y ow n e r o r o p e r a to r of a horse riding establishment shall ensure that the equipment described in paragraphs 1 and 2 of subsection (1) is available for hire at reasonable rates.

28 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Exception

(4) A n owner or operator of a horse riding establishment is not in contravention of subsec tion (1) or ( 2) if the rider does not have the equipment describ ed in paragraph 2 of subsection (1) b u t is e q ui p p e d w ith p ro p er l y f u n c t i o n i n g a n d s ize d h o o d e d stirrups, safety stirrups designed to prevent the rider's foot from p a s s i n g t h ro u g h o r b e c o m i n g wedged in the stirrups, or stirrups designed to break away when the rider falls from the horse.

The Highway Traffic Act is amended by adding the following section: Duty of horse riders 10 4 .1 (1) N o person under the age of 18 years shall ride or be mounted on a horse on a highway unless that p erson has and is c o r r e c t l y u s i n g t h e fo l l o w i n g equipment in the manner that it was designed to be used: 1. A helmet that complies with the requirements under the H o r s e R i d i n g S a fe t y A c t , 2001.

2. Footwear that complies with the requirements under the Horse Riding Safety Act, 2001.

Bill 12 in effect as of September 27th, 2001

Safety First

Helmet Tales

In the summer issue of WHOA! we asked members to share their riding accident stories and explain the vital role that their safety helmet played in the outcome of their mishap.

Thank you to those who shared their helmet tales with us!

I feel compelled to write to you and to share with your readers how my riding helmet most likely saved my life...

It has been five weeks now since my "accident " which lef t me with a bad concussion, broken ribs, a fractured finger, a grapefruit size hematoma on my right thigh and black and blue all over! I was certainly not expecting this outcome; as a seasoned rider, I pride myself in being able to stay in the saddle when the unexpected occurs.

I had trained Melchior - a 9 year old Thoroughbred X and great grandson of Secretariat and Northern Dancer - for a little over an hour in the sand ring and thought he would appreciate a nice walk in the hay field after a hard workout. I was wrong... Melchior got barn sour and out of the blue, he broke into a mad gallop to head back to the barn and the comfort of his buddies. Before I could rein him in and slow him down, he started bucking like he was at the Calgary Stampede... I think I held on for the required 8 seconds because when the last buck sent me flying, I am sure I heard bells when my head hit the ground.

I can only imagine what the outcome would have been like had I not been wearing a properly fitted, approved riding helmet.

It does not matter what discipline you practice. When you get up on a horse, you should always remember that no matter his age, level of training or your experience as a rider, you are always sitting on 1000 pounds of dynamite that could potentially go off without notice. And so, please....wear your helmet! Bones and bruises will heal with time, but our brain should never be made vulnerable simply because we chose look and fashion over safety...

Danielle Bélanger-Corbin Haileybury, ON

Hey there, my name is Jessica Dickson and I have been riding since I was 2 years old. I am now 17 years old and I live in London, Ontario.

I keep my Percheron gelding, Gerry, on a beautiful farm just outside of London by the Airport.

Gerry is normally an easy going, calm horse.

He loves trail rides and he is great to ride just about anywhere. On most occasions when I rode him, it didn't occur to me to wear a helmet because I trust Gerry so much.

One day, late in March of this year, I decided to take Gerry on a ride around the track on our property. He was acting like he usually did - enjoying his ride with me. Earlier, as I was saddling him up, I had a strange urge to wear a helmet. I am thankful that I did, because it saved my life.

Gerry and I set off around the track. It was a beautiful warm day, with hardly a breeze in

W hen I was young and nobod y wore helmets much, my mother insisted that I wear a helmet at summer camp. I was very excited at the prospect of getting a beautiful black velvet cap but when the box arrived, inside it laid an ugly white plastic polo helmet with a harness. I hated that helmet but wore it every day for lessons.

D ur ing one les son the ho r se I was riding took off toward the barn at a gallop and I fell off. My foot got caught in the stirrup and I was dragged for about 50 meters.

My head was hit several times by p o u n d in g h o ove s a n d b o u n c e d on hard ground. O n g et ting up af ter removing myself from the stirrup, I checked the helmet and it had several dark marks on it but I was completely unhurt. That helmet was my favorite for years to come — even af ter I did get a beautiful black velvet one (made mostly of cardboard and without a harness).

Helmets are much safer these d ays b u t I c a n’t im a g in e w h at would have happened if I had been wearing a black velvet one at the time. I never ride without a helmet to this day.

Wendy Johnson London, ON

the air, a grateful break from the steady rain we suffered this spring. It wasn't until we reached the opposite side of the track, near the woods, that I sensed a problem. Gerry tensed up a little, but he continued forward.

I didn’t hear whatever it was that scared my gentle giant, but without any warnings whatsoever Gerry turned on his heels and bolted back for the barn. You know what they say, “when a horse bolts, you're along for the ride!” Boy, was I ever. It took all of my strength to hold onto my huge white horse as he hurdled full speed back to the comfort of his home.

Gerry was genuinely terrified and refused to listen to me as I tried to soothe him. I lost the reins and I was holding on with just my arms and my legs. As we neared the barn, Gerry began to slow down and he showed signs of relaxing. Naturally, I relaxed as well,

and at that moment Gerry bolted forward again. I wasn't expecting it, and I fell from the saddle. The impact was enough to steal my breath away from me and I hit my lower back and head on a rock. My helmet probably saved my life. I still have the helmet, and you can clearly see the big dent in the back of it from the large rock. I suffered massive bruising and a few cuts, but I healed in good time. Gerry was okay, too.

My story goes to show that even the horses you know and trust, can do the unexpected.

A helmet is a crucial, important piece of riding gear, whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, competing in your home town show or the Olympics.

Wear one. Your life could depend on it.

Jessica Dickson London, ON www.horse.on.ca | 29

Around the Barn

Barn BULLIES

by Tracy Curnuck-Campbell

30 | WHOA! Fall 2011

A

barn mom knows there is something seriously wrong when her horse - craz y daughter begs not to be lef t alone at the barn. For one young girl I knew, it star ted with regular and timely teasing and “innocent” insults about her riding ability from an older teenager at her barn.

When this younger girl began to compete against this teen she became the target of bullying.

Blackberr y Messaging (BBM), texting, Twitter and Facebook can easily become the chosen methods to spread ill-intent, gossip and rumours. Our family watched this young rider experience all of this.

T he o l d er r i d er (the b ull y ) h a d an g r y melt-downs at times, which consisted of personal and verbal attacks against the younger girl. Angry outbursts and yelling

Photo Credit: Linnéa Burgess

we re c o mm o n . Swe a r in g a n d t hre at s eventually replaced teasing and taunts.

The young rider was told that she should leave the barn or stop competing at the same level. Personal belongings and tack started to disappear or get damaged. It all came to a head when we heard that the bully was bragging about being able to get this young rider kicked - out of the barn.

That young rider and her family eventually left, but the bullying was never addressed.

Bullying can happen, not only in school, but also at places and times we treasure most, like being with our horses. As adults and parents in the horse world it can be easy to “overlook” or excuse what we may see as teenage hormones, drama, “girl stuff”, miscommunication, jealousy etc. We may expect these things to just

Around the Barn

go away over time without inter vention. Perhaps we’ve all seen or heard of situations going too far and for too long. One unfor tunate incident involved an entire family who became the target of a barn-teen’s malicious rumours and unfounded allegations to the point where the family’s reputation was impacted.

Knowing the warning signs and dealing with the bullying as soon as it starts is critical. The lessons taught about bullying in our school system should also be taught and enforced at riding establishments.

Bullying can take many forms such as: • Spreading bad rumours • Gossiping with the intent to harm • Ostracizing and ignoring • Intimidation • Insults, name calling • Scape-goating, blaming • Verbal and psychological abuse • Stealing or destroying belongings • Cyber-bullying • Physical attacks, pushing, shoving, hitting • Threats • Aggression • Manipulation According to Bullying Canada, bullying can have long-term physical and psychological consequences. Some of these include: • Withdrawal from family, wanting to be left alone • Withdrawal from friends, social events or activities • Shyness • Increased stress • Stomach aches • Headaches • Panic attacks • Not being able to sleep • Sleeping too much • Being exhausted • Nightmares • Not eating • Losing interest in something they love • Appearing moody, teary, sad, depressed • Suicidal thoughts If bullying isn't stopped, it can also hurt bystanders, as well as the person who bullies others. Bystanders are afraid they could be the next victim. Even if they feel badly for the person being bullied, they avoid getting involved in order to protect themselves or because they aren't sure what to do. (from Bullying Canada)

At every barn, every child has the right to feel safe and to be free from bullying (includes harassment, intimidation and threats).

What should you do if you are being bullied or if someone you know is being bullied at your barn?

1. Speak-up!

2. Immediately tell someone you trust and insist on help.

3. Don’t stop talking, get help to address and resolve the bullying.

4. Don't bully back.

5. If you can, stand up for yourself and tell the bully that their behaviour is not acceptable and that it must stop.

What can barn owners, managers and coaches/instructors do to prevent and handle bullying?

1. Create a code of conduct/anti-bullying policy for your barn.

When I use to coach hockey we had every player and parent agree to and sign- off on the code of conduct before they started.

2. Communicate regularly with your parents/riders. Explain w hat b ehav iour is and isn’t ac c e pt ab le and w h at the consequences will be if there is bullying.

3. Create an environment that is safe, inclusive, fair, respectful and transparent.

4. Explain to new parents/riders the process for addressing and resolving complaints at your barn.

5. Walk the talk. Address problems and facilitate resolutions before matters get out of hand.

6. A c k n o w l e d g e a n d re c o g n i ze h e a l t h y a n d s u p p o r t i v e behaviours.

7. Conduct regular barn meetings to foster a healthy, open, team environment.

8. Educate yourself. Know the symptoms and signs of bullying.

Pay attention to changes with your students and talk openly to students and parents. _ Resources: www.bullyingcanada.ca www.kidshealth.org

Tracy Curnuck- Campbell has been involved with horses for over thirty years. When she is not at the barn, Tracy works as a Human Resources practitioner with over twenty-four years of experience working with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

She specializes in managing employee and labour relations, policy development, communications and training. Tracy has been integral in implementing strategies to prevent violence, bullying and harassment in the workplace. www.horse.on.ca | 31

Mane Events

ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given to the membership of the Ontario Equestrian Federation that the 2011 Annual General Meeting will take place during the OEF Annual Conference on Saturday November 26, 2011 commencing at 12:00pm in the Pavilion Auditorium at the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre in Mississauga.

The meeting agenda is as follows: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Opening Remarks Minutes of Previous Meeting (October 22, 2010) Business Arising from the Minutes President’s Address Treasurer’s Report (a) Appointment of Auditor for 2012-2013

6. Annual Activity Report 7. Elections 8. Council and Committee Reports 9. Other Business 10. Announcement of Election Results 11. Adjournment

All Adult Members are encouraged to attend and exercise their vote.

2011 NOMINATION FORM - OEF INDIVIDUAL DIRECTOR The Committee on Nominations of the Ontario Equestrian Federation is seeking nominations for Individual Directors to the Board of Directors

We, ________________________________________________________ Name and OEF # of Nominator 1

______________________________________________________ Signature of Nominator 1

________________________________________________________ Name and OEF # of Nominator 2

______________________________________________________ Signature of Nominator 2

hereby declare we are members in good standing of the OEF and wish to nominate _______________________________________________________ (full name)

______________________________________________________ (OEF #)

for election to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Equestrian Federation.

I hereby declare I am a member in good standing of the OEF and I accept this nomination to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. I enclose a copy of my curriculum vitae for display on the website, in the OEF Newsletter, WHOA!, and for distribution to the members attending • Current role of a member of the OEF Board of Directors • Director's Code of Responsibility (Article XIX, OEF Bylaw, 2008) • Conflict of Interest policy (Article X X, OEF Constitution, 2008)

_________________________________________________________ Signature of Nominee

__________________________________ Date

mail/fax to: ONTARIO EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION - 9120 Leslie Street, Suite 203, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3J9 phone 905-709 - 6545 • fax 905-709 -1867 • email horse@horse.on.ca • website www.horse.on.ca curriculum vitae must accompany nomination

32 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Mane Events

2011 COMPETITIONS COMPETITION

START

END

LOCATION

EMAIL

10/16/2011

10/16/2011

1675 St. John Side Road, Aurora, ON

jennypower@rogers.com

10/22/2011

10/22/2011

Stonecroft Equestrian, 19940 McCowan Rd, Mount Albert, ON

kyle@stonecroftequestrian.com

10/29/2011

10/30/2011

RCRA, 4252 Davis Drive, Cedar Valley

amanda@rcra.ca

11/04/2011

11/13/2011

Ricoh Coliseum, Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON

jblakeney@royalfair.org

OEF SKILLS DEVELOPMENT - GP Boots N Saddle Horse Show Series # 2

BRONZE BREED 2011 Fall Classic

BRONZE DRESSAGE RCRA Autumn II

PLATINUM HUNTER/JUMPER The Royal Horse Show CSI 4*W

Introducing New OEF Competition Administrator, Angelique Homan The OEF is pleased to introduce one of its newest staff members, Anglique Homan. Angelique took over the Competition Administrator responsibilities in mid-August and is already making her mark. Please help us welcome Angelique to the OEF team!

A resident of Uxbridge, her mother tried to put her into every extra-curricular activity imaginable when she was young. All she ever wanted to do was ride! At the age of 8 her mother finally gave in and signed her up for riding lessons. Hunter/jumper is her first passion but over the years she has had the opportunity to work at barns of various disciplines including dressage, quarter horse, trail riding and even polo.

When it came time to enroll in college there was really only one thing she wanted to learn about, horses. In 2002, Angelique graduated from Kemptville College with a diploma in Equine Studies. From there she spent 6 years working full-time at Baker’s Saddlery in Markham and went on to manage The Repeat Rider in Stouffville for the last year and a half. She showed for many years at the Trillium and schooling levels but more recently has been spending her time in the saddle schooling green horses. She is also a professional braider and body clipper in her spare time. Needless to say, horses will always be a part of her life!

For all competition inquiries please contact Angelique via email at competition@horse.on.ca or by telephone at 1-877-441-7112 ext.15. _

For all your equine legal needs

Stacey Cronyn 613-231-8272

David Stout 613-231-8344

John Lundrigan June Rudderham 613-231-8325 613-231-8246

www.nelligan.ca

Injuries to horse & rider Lease and boarding agreements Co-ownership Business disputes Employment contracts

www.nelligan.ca

34 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Cross border and transportation issues Occupiers liability Purchase disputes Insurance Estate planning & family law

Ottawa, Kingston, Vankleek Hill & Alexandria

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For special pricing use your Ontario Equestrian Federation Membership Form or visit the OEF website at www.horse.on.ca Now follow us on Twitter and Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/The-Rider/346211758128 www.twitter/#!/theridercom

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The Royal Horse Show Feature

The Spirit of the Horse

2011

Mane Events

The History of Horses at t he Timeline of Sig 1880

1920

The tradition of horses on the grounds of exhibition place dates back to the Battle of York in 1813-14.

The initial plans for a Canadian National Agricultural and Livestock fair were thought to need an entertainment component to draw a large public from across the country – this was to be the horse show.

The first Royal Horse Show included classes for hunters, jumpers, polo ponies, military remounts, saddle horses, harness horses, six-horse heavy draft teams, and commercial classes for horses used for deliveries by bakers, confectioners, butchers, dairies and coal companies.

At the fir st R W F t h e R oya l C a n a d i a n D r ag o o n s, one of Canada’s first cavalry regiments were asked to perform a musical ride and set up an international jumping competition restricted to riders from the Canadian military.

Wooden stabling was to built for 700 horses when the Royal Winter Fair buildings were designed; 1,850 horses were brought to the fair that first year the fair opened on November 22, 1922.

In 1925 the RWF opened the jumping event to foreign military teams. The jumping shows were standing room only and clearly generated a significant income for the fair.

1960 In 1949 the Horse Show dropped the militar y restrictions and adopted the FEI regulations allowing all qualified international riders to compete.

In the mid 1960’s there were more Quar ter Horses in the breeding classes than any other breed.

In 1963 the British Sport of Coaching was introduced as a demonstration sport and was so popular it returned as a competition in 1964. The event is called the Green Meadows Coaching Class, named after the first show sponsor’s horse farm.

1990 In 1994 Big Ben, Canada’s first Celebrity Horse’s retirement was announced at the Royal. Big Ben’s career spanned 11 seasons, he won more than 40 grand prix, he was the first horse to win 2 World Cup Finals, he won the world’s richest grand prix twice, he was a member of 3 Olympic teams and won over $1.5 million as a show jumper. He retired at the age of 18.

In the late 1960’s , Mr. and Mrs. Jack Pemberton, their guests and grooms in livery on foot, give an idea of the opulence of turn-of-the-century coaching with this four-in-hand display in the Green Meadows competitions.

At the same 1994 RWF, Emirage, mount of Eva Marie and daughter Martina Pracht also retired. Emirage was part of the Gold Medal Team at the ’87 Pan Am Games, won Bronze at the ’88 Seoul Olympics, and competed in the ’91 World Cup, ’92 Barcelona Olympics and was named ’93 Canadian Grand Prix Champion.

The RCMP Musical Ride rounds the corner of Queen and Yonge Streets in downtown Toronto. During the 1950’s and 1960’s, Royal festivities were kicked off with a parade on opening day. The RCMP fell in line behind the mayor of Toronto and other members of the city council. Also part of the procession were teams of heavy horses pulling wagons loaded with vegetables and cages containing chickens, rabbits, ducks and other animals at the fair.

Guests at the 1922 President’s Agricultural Dinner. These men formed a who’s who of prominent farmers, politicians, farm leaders and top exhibitors. The Agricultural Dinner remains a tradition of the Royal.

Women gradually broke into the ranks of the president’s guest list after the Second World War.

Mane Events

R oyal Agricultural Winter Fair nificant E vents The Governor-General’s Cup is one of the oldest trophies presented at the fair, given to the best three-year-old mare or gelding in the Breeding Division, foaled in Canada and suitable to become a hunter.

The first show included over 79 different competitive and breeding classes for horses.

At the time of the first Royal Winter Fair there were over 3.5M horses in Canada, roughly 1 for every 2 people in the country – this was the popularity of horses.

1940

1930 The Horse Palace was built in 1931 – but all of the horses that had been attending couldn’t be accommodated so eligibilit y standards were introduced for the Hunter, Jumper and Junior Divisions.

Dressage was first introduced to the Royal Horse Show in 1934.

In 1965 the Department of Agriculture (and sponsor of the fair) developed new rules for the Fair, including limiting entries, improving judging standards and the facilities which improved the prominence of the Horse Show at the RWF.

In 1946 the Breeding Division grew significantly when classes for saddle horses and palominos were added, and in later years Arabians, Welsh Ponies and Quarter Horses were added.

T he 19 6 8 R W F h o n o r e d C a n a d a ’s Equestrian Team for their Gold Medal win at the 1968 Mexico Olympics – all 4 members of the team competed at the Royal that year and won the Nations’ Cup as the best team at the Royal.

2000

Toronto Police Service began keeping horses at the horse palace in 1968.

2011

2002 was the 80th anniversary of the RWF, and The Royal Invitational Rodeo (now called the Ontario Toyota Dealers Royal Rodeo) was introduced featuring Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing and Team Roping.

November 2008, Olympic Gold Medal Champions Eric Lamaze and Hickstead crossed the ocean to attend the Royal and win the $100,000 CN FEI World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix.

Lauren Bar wick, Canada’s 2008 Seoul Olympic Gold Medal Para-Dressage rider, performed at the 2010 Royal Winter Fair.

Currently there are 135 breeding classes and 100 performance classes at the RWF.

Links – http://royalfair.org/userfiles/ History%20of%20The%20Royal.pdf http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/ mountedpds/

Her Royal Highness Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips, assisted by longtime ring-steward Jim Davis, present a Royal Horse Show trophy to U.S. team rider, Rodney Jenkins in 1974.

Thousands of fans attended the Royal in 1994 to say farewell to Canada’s beloved Big Ben at the age of eighteen.

Dressage rider, Ashley (Nicoll) Holzer on Eclipse in 1995.

Direct Energy Centre, located next to the Coliseum, completed in 1997.

Photos supplied by the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

Reference – Needles, Dan - An Illustrated History.

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, published by Random House of Canada Limited, Toronto. 1997 ISBN 0-679-30914-4

Spirit of the Horse The OEF is pleased to continue our tradition with the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair to bring to audiences one of the most popular features of the fair, the Spirit of the Horse exhibit sponsored

by Mamma’s Pizza.

The Spirit of the Horse will feature various breeds including American Saddlebred, Arabian, Black Forest, Canadian, Fjord, Friesian, Gypsy Vanner, Newfoundland Pony, Paso Fino, Percheron, Quarter Horse, Sport Horse, Thoroughbred, and donkeys, which will entertain and educate audiences with riding and driving demonstrations highlighting the history, versatility and unique traits of their breed. In addition to breeds, visitors will have the opportunity to meet the working horses from the Toronto Mounted Police, learn about road safety and trail etiquette with horses, ask questions about the benefits of therapeutic riding and much more! Daily schedules will be posted on our website and on facebook so be sure to follow what is going on down at the Spirit exhibit.

Other highlights of this year’s Spirit of the Horse exhibit you won’t want to miss: • Equestrian of the Century, Mark Todd will be doing a mini clinic on eventing • Canadian Equestrian Team member Erynn Ballard returns to do a repeat of her successful hunter/jumper clinic from 2010 • Canadian Reining Committee Chair and International Reining Judge, Gary Yaghdjian will be educating the audience on the increasingly popular discipline of reining • Fourth generation Charro, Jerry Diaz will be performing

highlights from his performance in the main ring The OEF is thrilled to have these internationally known equestrians participate in the Spirit of the Horse.

The daily educational sessions introduced last year in the round pen were a big success and we will once again have professionals demonstrating equine massage therapy, alternative therapy, chiropractic therapy, the work of the farrier, saddle fitting, nutrition and more. If you have every wanted to find out about any of these topics, be sure to stop by the round pen for an opportunity to ask a professional and to see them work up close.

There will be lots to see at this year’s Spirit of the Horse exhibit, so stop by often. The OEF will have our booth located right in the Spirit of the Horse area, so please drop by and say hello to the staff.

We also hope you will come down for the festivities on Tuesday, November 8, for the inaugural OEF Member Appreciation Day. Not only will members get 30% off tickets to the horse show that day, but we will have lots going on all day including giveaways, draws, an exclusive reception where you can meet equestrian VIPs, and many other fun activities as the OEF shows its appreciation for our members!

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is the world’s largest indoor agricultural and international equestrian competition.

The Royal draws more than 300,000 visitors to the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto annually to see thousands of unique entries from elite Canadian and International breeders, growers and exhibitors, over 4,500 large and small animals, shows, activities, shopping, dining and The Royal Horse Show. For more information about the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Spirit of the Horse 2011 please visit www.royalfair.org.

Be sure to mark your calendar and join us for the Spirit of the Horse at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair November 4-13, 2011. We look forward to seeing you there! _

Join us for the 89th year of

The Royal Horse Show!

Special equine celebrity appearances, spectacular shows and entertainment for the entire family are all under one roof! Experience kid-friendly rock 'n' roll band The Monkey Bunch, the President’s Choice® SuperDogs, the Rodeo Competition and – of course – your kids will love real horse fun with EquiMania!

There's plenty for you big kids too, like worldclass equestrian competitions and gourmet events with Restaurant Makeover's Lynn Crawford and The Thirsty Travelers’ Kevin Brauch. To order tickets or learn more, visit royalfair.org today.

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GROWING UP RINGSIDE

Sab e Gies er MING HE E I MUN H IN

eet the kids of the pros

WHO IS

Markus Gribbe?

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Starting Gate to Start Box

Retraining Thoroughbreds for Eventing

M

NAJYRC DIARY 4 GIFT GUIDE 4 PAN AM GAMES PREVIEW

MONSOONS MED S Canadians Win Big at the NAJYRC

The Peril of

E OW RDS

in Eventing

SWEE S IEN E

Using Honey for Healing

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N Y P CS TEST E ENT

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Coaches Corner

Introduction to New OEF Education Coordinator The OEF has recently had the good fortune to bring Gillian Ross Erasmi on board as our new Education Coordinator. We’ve asked her to introduce herself to our members and we know you’ll be as impressed as we are, not only with her passion and experience in the world of riding, but with the work she has brought to the organization including the organization of a number of education offerings listed below. She’s your “Go-To” person at the OEF for all your education related questions.

Gillian Ross Erasmi At eight years old I started riding at a local riding stable where my father’s co worker had her horse. This woman became an inspiration, coach, mentor and friend over the years. She had a neighbour who bought a horse for his back yard when she was a young teen, she fell in love, asked the neighbour if she could help look after the horse, he said yes. Learning from library books, she did her best, trained the horse who became her own and as an adult was very successful showing dressage and field hunting. Some would say she was self taught, she would tell you her horse taught her. Now in she is showing FEI Prix St. Georges, in spite of back surgery and after raising her son. I 44 | WHOA! Fall 2011

was inspired by her passion for learning, her love of horses, her open mind and knowledge that we never “know it all”.

As a young girl I began with a love of horses, then a thirst for learning all that I could about anything involved with horses.

I rode western for trail rides, English for lessons and was luck y enough to have “Grandpa” Burney who raised Haflingers, s o I l e a r n e d a l i t t l e a b o u t b re e d i n g , showing halter and driving.

It didn’t take long before I was in a leadership role at the riding school, granted it was Saturday morning stall cleaning but I helped the younger kids with how to clean, add shavings and set feed for the horses. I started helping with lessons and teaching a few beginners by the age of thirteen. My father was an agricultural journalist, and I was lucky enough to tag along on some interviews, one with Michel Vaillancourt at the Royal shortly after the Gold Medal win at the Alternate Olympics in 1980, needless to say I became a bit of a horse show groupie, posters of Big Ben, Solid Gold, Aramis and Dynasty filled my walls along with the odd Scott Baio poster.

I have enjoyed showing over the years with CADORA, bought my first horse and showed her for two seasons in Children’s Hunter under Mike Grinyer. Later I got back into western riding, inspired by Pat Carter, while at Humber College and limited by injury (had a few falls off green horses over fences) I obtained my Level 1 Western Coaching Certificate and a few Intermediate rider levels. I have taught at Humber College in their evening classes, at several riding schools and private farms over the years since graduating. I kept my goal of an English Coaching Certificate, although riddled with ‘bad luck’, between my injury and horse injuries with impeccable timing it took several years, but I did it.

Although I have helped competitive students work toward their goals, I would fall more under the Instructor of Beginner category as that is what I love most. Seeing the joy on the face of a rider (young or just young at heart) when basic skills are achieved. Over the years I have coached beginner students from five years to sixty plus.

There are several of my previous students still riding for pleasure and competitively, some teaching and others running their own riding schools. It gives me a great satisfaction to know that I had a small part in helping them reach their goals and living a full life with horses.

In my n e w p o s i t i o n a s E d u c a t i o n Coordinator, I bring not only administrative

skills but a passion for learning and sharing.

I strongly believe in the benefits of our new English Learn to Ride program, and the Western Learn to Ride program.

I understand that change is not always easy, but I look forward to the direction the Coaching and Instructor programs are going in, our students will benefit so much from the teaching skills developed under the new standards. _

THREE UPCOMING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES English & Western Coaching Clinic Barbara Newlands & Andrea Veldhuyzen will facilitate the clinic which will include guest speaker Victoria Andrew, NCCP liaison and author of the Competition Coach Programs and focused demonstrations and discussions of Coaching techniques.

Sunday, November 20, 2011 – full day University of Guelph - Kemptville Campus 830 Prescott Street Kemptville, ON St. John’s Emergency First Aid, CPR & AED Completion of this course is a requirement for Instructor and Coaching Certification. Bill Thomas will facilitate this course focusing on the equestrian environment. A maximum of 12 registrants are permitted.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 – full day (Registration Deadline – Friday, November 4, 2011) Location – OEF Head Office Boardroom NCCP/Equine Canada Equestrian Specific Training Workshop This course is strongly recommended for Instructor and Competition Coach Candidates.

Mary Ruth Moore & Danielle Yaghdjian, both Equine Canada Level 1 Coaches, will lead participants through 2 full days of workshops and material covering teaching and learning, lesson planning, analyzing performance and making ethical decisions.

Thursday and Friday, December 1 & 2, 2011 (Registration Deadline – Friday, November 18, 2011) Location – OEF Head Office Boardroom The OEF Head Office Boardroom is located at 9120 Leslie Street (north of Hwy 7) Richmond Hill, ON Details of these course offerings, registration forms and payment options are available at the OEF Website – http://www.horse.on.ca/ clinicsevents.html

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Ask Dr. Bob

Question: Dr. Bob, I returned home from a horse show where one of the horses had a snotty nose and was coughing. My horse started coughing and developed a snotty nose the following week. He is still eating and has not had a rectal temperature greater than 40˚C. Some of the other horses in the barn are now showing similar signs. What should I do?

Unfor tunately, you are at least a week late. There are 3 key steps in preventing a contagious disease outbreak in your barn. They include; keeping the horses’ vac cination st atus cur rent , preventing exposure and quarantining all new arrivals (or returning horses).

Prior to going to any show or event where horses are assembled, you should ensure that your horse(s) is up-to-date on all vaccines. Discuss the need for core and optional vaccines with your veterinarian.

O nc e at the event , then you nee d to exercise due diligence by preventing direct exposure to horses that may be carrying a contagious disease like herpes or strangles as well as indirect exposure by not using communal water troughs and not bringing back a virus to your horse on hands and clothing when visiting fellow exhibitors. On returning home, your horse should never, ever be put back into the herd or barn especially if there are pregnant mares in the barn. All horses returning home should be considered infected regardless of the number of hours or days they have been 46 | WHOA! Fall 2011

away from home. They should be placed into quarantine for a minimum of 14 and preferably 21 days. You never know what they are bringing home. If this seems too much to be bothered consider the cost and labour of treating a barnful of horses or the cost if all of the pregnant mares aborted.

Horses commonly break with “the virus” the week following a show and far better if they break with it in an isolated area away from the main barn. The infection could be one of a number of common disease agents including influenza, rhinopneumintis (herpes), equine rhinovirus, equine arteritis virus, equine adenovirus or strangles. The clinical signs are very similar and usually only laborator y testing can identif y the agent. The bottom line is that they are all easily transmitted from horse to horse either by direct nose to nose contact or indirec tl y by hands, t ack , infec ted equipment or barn ventilation.

Over the summer a herpes virus infection in cutting horses has been of concern.

There are four subtypes/variants of herpes virus;

• equine herpes virus type 1 (EHV-1), the equine abor tion virus formerly called equine viral rhinopneumonitis, • neurotropic equine herpes virus t ype 1 - (nEHV-1), also referred to as equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), • equine herpes virus type 2 (EHV-2) or equine cytomegalovirus (not known to cause clinical disease in horses) and • equine herpes virus type 4 (EHV- 4).

Both EHV-1 and 4 can cause a highly contagious respirator y tract infection, par ticularly in yearlings, young horses and fully susceptible horses (not p rev i o u s l y ex p o s e d ). E H V -1 h a s t h e g re ate s t p ote nti al to c au se c lini c all y severe outcomes, including abortion of a virus-infected fetus from infected mares and the paraly tic neurological disease (myeloencephalopathy), secondar y to vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) of the spinal cord and brain.

Most horses have been exposed and infected with EHV-1 respiratory infections

Ask Dr. Bob by the time they are two years of age. The majority of such respiratory infections are subclinical. In fully susceptible horses however, clinical signs include pyrexia (fever) and a harsh dry cough, followed by a mucopurulent nasal discharge. Secondary bacterial infections may cause more serious invasive diseases. Horses at greatest risk are those 2 and 3-year-olds that are assembled for, and confined in barns at, sales, races or shows. As many as 60% of recovered horses can become asymptomatic carriers (don’t show outward signs) of latent herpes virus (virus waiting to be activated).

Outbreaks of the neurological or neurotropic form of nEHV-1 are of great concern since horses exhibit weakness and paralysis of the muscles of the hind limbs with resultant incoordination, gait abnormalities and, in many cases, the inability to rise from the sitting position. The neurologic deficits result from a thrombotic, ischemic inflammation of small blood vessels in the spinal cord and/or brain. The interval between initial nEHV-1 infection of the respiratory tract and the subsequent onset of neurological signs is 8 to 12 days. The disease is not preventable with current vaccines. The clinical attack rate is high, and large numbers of

fatalities are the rule. The prognosis for recovery for non-recumbent horses is favourable, but is poor for animals that remain down for longer than 24 hours. The basis of nEHV-1 paralytic disease is a single gene alteration which endows the mutant virus strain with enhanced virulence.

This discovery has led to a genetic (PCR) test on nasal swab for identifying nEHV-1.

EHV-1 abortions usually occur in only 1 or 2 mares but outbreaks of abortions (abortion storms) do occur. The abortions can occur at the same time or spread over a period of weeks on the same farm. The mares rarely show outward signs prior to aborting. Young infected horses coming into the barn are a major source of the virus and a danger to pregnant mares.

By 3 years of age, most horses have been exposed to EHV-1 and developed some immunity through either vaccination or natural infection to the herpes viruses. However, as with all herpes viruses regardless of the species of animal, the virus can remain latent (dormant) in the majority of horses without showing clinical disease. Recrudescence or reactivation of latent virus occurs in stressed horses and shedding of the virus ensues. The virus can be found in the lymph nodes within 2 to 3 days post infection

and abortions can occur as early as nine days post infection. The most intense shedding of the virus occurs during the first few days of the disease. Recrudescence of the virus is the reason why horses in closed populations may experience an outbreak of herpes virus.

Horses are not protected against the abortion or neurological forms of the disease even after repeated exposure. _ Dr. Bob Wright is a well known author of more than one hundred and fifty information sheets. He retired from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in 20 0 9. He was the Lead veterinarian for equine and alternate livestock for twenty three years. He is still actively involved in teaching and provides consultative services to veterinarians and horse owners on horse health and the equine industry. For further information on herpes and disease prevention visit Dr. Bob’s website http:// www.horsenewsandviews.com/ and the O nta ri o M inistr y of A g ri c ulture, Fo o d and Rural Affairs website http://www. omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/index. html#horses

www.horse.on.ca | 47

On the Trail

Horse Trailering

by Bonnie Simpson, Equestrian Trail Advisor

Autumn is a wonderful time to go trial riding – the weather is cooler, the bugs are gone and the brilliant red and orange tones that light up the trees provide riders with a picturesque backdrop.

Did you know that Ontario is home to ninetyseven equestrian trails? With busy summer weekends behind us, autumn is a perfect time to get out and explore the various trails that run throughout Ontario. However, before you hit the road with your horse it is important to ensure that you have fully prepared to trailer your horse.

Here are some tips, tricks and regulations to keep in mind to ensure you have a successful trailering experience.

For a complete list of equestrian trails in Ontario please visit the Ontario Trails Council website: http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trailactivities/equestrian/. The listings include trail information and GPS coordinates.

Travel Tips to Minimize the Stress Associated with Transporting Horses Trailering can be a stressful experience for many horses it is pertinent that you take measures to provide a positive trailering experience for your horse. The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has provided the following travel tips: • Train/teach your horse to load calmly well in advance of the event. A calm horse will likely be more comfortable on the journey. Even if you never plan to travel with your horse, it is advisable to teach it to load. Practice this several times a year; it may come in handy if an emergency trip to the veterinarian is in order.

48 | WHOA! Fall 2011

• Keep the trailer in good repair and in a clean condition. A trailer that travels quietly and smoothly will provide a more comfortable and less stressful ride for the horses.

• Ensure the tow vehicle is well maintained to avoid breakdowns. It is essential that the exhaust system is in good repair and fumes are expelled to the side of the vehicle. Fumes emitted straight back under the trailer may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Ensure the trailer has good ventilation.

Avoid draughts.

• For longer trips, plan to arrive several days earlier to permit horses' immune systems to stabilize before any major athletic endeavour.

• ‘Long-tie' horses by the cheek ring of the halter. This allows maximum head movement and facilitates sinus clearing and airway drainage.

• Transport horses with others they get along with whenever possible.

• Drive ‘passenger-friendly'. Practice slow take-aways. Careful braking and smooth cornering are key elements to towing a trailer in a responsible manner. Always ‘think ahead'.

• Plan ahead. Chart a route and time of day when traffic is minimal and the weather is conducive to horse comfort.

• Offer hay and water, but no grain. Water horses prior to departure and every four hours for longer trips to help combat the

threat of dehydration. Hay serves as a pacifier and helps retain water in the gut during transit. Refrain from feeding grain, as stress affects gut function, causing grain to sit and ferment with the possible result of colic.

Trailer Safety Kit In the event of roadside breakdown it is important to keep an emergency kit in the trailer or tow vehicle. This is a list of items that should be kept in your kit at all times: • Complete equine First Aid kit • Extra halters and lead shanks • Sharp knife • Wire cutters • 100 ft of 1/2" rope • Small tool kit or ‘leatherman' tool, including wire cutter, knife, tweezers, etc.

• Jumper cables • Two flashlights with extra batteries • Roll of duct tape • Flares • Cell phone • Phone number directory with numbers for your veterinarian and border crossing veterinarian • Trailer jack • Spare tire (complete with air) • Spare wheel bearing • Cash Ministry of Transportation Trailering Requirements In preparation for hitting the road with your

On the Trail truck and trailer be sure that you are familiar with Ontario’s current gross vehicle weight and towing laws. To review the current laws please visit www.e-laws.gov.on.ca. It is important to know the following regulations: Does your pick up truck need an Annual Safety Inspection?

An annual safety inspection is required: 1. On a truck that does not tow a trailer if: a. The truck’s actual weight, registered gross weight (RGW) or gross vehicle weight rating exceeds 4,500 kg 2. On both the truck and towed trailer if: a. The truck’s actual weight, registered gross weight or gross vehicle weight rating exceeds 4,500 kg or b. The actual weight of the truck, when added to the actual weight of the towed trailer or trailers exceeds 4,500 kg, or c. The gross vehicle weight rating of the truck, when added to the gross vehicle weight rating of the towed trailer or trailers exceeds 4,500 kg.

3. On a transpor t trailer conver ter dolly, whether the dolly is carrying a trailer or not.

License Class A class ‘A’ driver’s license is required when pulling any trailer that has a gross weight of MORE THAN 4,600 kg. (10,000 lb.)

Brakes Brakes are required on all trailers that weigh 1,360 kg (3,000 lb,) Load Security All vehicles and trailers when carrying a load on the highway must have: 1. Sides, sideboards or stakes, end gate or end boards 2. At least one tie down for every 3 m and as many additional tie down assemblies required to secure the load or 3. Have other means of protecting against the load shifting or falling off. Square or round bales cannot be carried without ties or being properly secured.

Personal Use A ‘pick-up’ that is only ever used for ‘personal use’ or is only ever used to tow a trailer that is used for personal use is exempt from Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR), trip inspection and hours.

Commercial Use A ‘pick-up’ that is used for business and has a weight of over 4500 kg will have to have a CVOR,

daily inspections and hours recorded. This also applies if you use the same pick-up for personal and commercial use. _ For more information please visit the following websites: www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/cvor/index.htm1 www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/regulations/ daily.htm34WHOA!April2009

Meeting A Horse On the Trail USE THE THREE C’s 1. courtesy 2. communication 3. common sense • Make your presence known from a distance by calmly addressing the rider.

• Please pass slowly on the left after the rider has acknowledged your presence.

• If you are motorized, we request that you stop and shut off your engine as a courtesy. Please greet the rider and wait until horse and rider have moved off a safe distance before continuing.

• If you are unsure of what to do in any situation concerning a horse, please ask the rider before taking any action.

• We all share the trails, so let’s work together in harmony to ensure safe and enjoyable trails.

Courtesy of the Ontario Trail Riders Association www.otra.ca

Best Practices for Horses on the Trails 1. You and your horse should have suitable riding attire – hunter orange from waist up all year, boots with a heel, helmet, well fitting saddle and good tack.

2. Ride a suitable horse – size, conditioning and training matter.

3. Carry a first aid kit, cell phone, GPS/ compass and map on you NOT the horse.

4. Never lead off until all riders are mounted.

5. Stay on the marked trails and obey the signs. Know where you are on the trail in case of an emergency.

6. Walk on the right of the trail or road.

Never canter or gallop.

7. Leave two horse lengths between you and the other horses even when you have stopped.

8. When crossing a road do so all together.

9. Use the buddy system; be responsible for the rider in front and behind you.

10. If riding alone, tell someone where you have gone and when you will return.

11. Use the thre e C ’s – C o ur te sy, Communication and Common Sense.

12. Do not litter on the trail or campsite.

Put manure and hay in designated areas.

Leave only hoof prints behind.

13. No dogs on the trail or alone in the campsite.

14. No alcohol or smoking on the trail.

15. Water your horse into the shore, and do not cross or wade unknown waters.

www.horse.on.ca | 49

Ask Mike

Insurance 201:

The Next Chapter…

Photo Credit: Holly Edmonds

by Mike King Last year we published an article entitled “Insurance 101” that outlined the insurance benefits available to OEF members. We hope that you had a chance to read the article and it gave you a better understanding of the terrific insurance program available to you as a member of the Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF). As we look ahead to 2012, here are some additional highlights regarding OEF member insurance programs. $5,000,000 Personal Liability Insurance This is one of the two insurance policies that are automatically provided to the member when the OEF accepts the membership fees. As soon as the applicant is considered to be in good standing, the personal liability insurance, as provided, is in full force and effect.

The period of coverage is directly tied to the membership - when the membership expires on December 31 of that year, so does the insurance.

This is liability insurance. By definition, this means that if someone else (a third party) alleges that the OEF member is legally responsible for Bodily Injury or Property Damage caused to them by a “personal use” owned or leased horse of the member then the policy will 50 | WHOA! Fall 2011

respond, defend the member as necessary and pay the damages if found to be legally liable.

The policy also provides coverage for the care, custody and control of non-owned horses.

For example: if the member was transporting another person’s horse (in a non-commercial situation) and an accident occurred where the member was held to be legally liable for the transported horse’s injury (or death) then the member liability policy would respond. This is a unique coverage that we provide to recognize that almost invariably, the member who owns a horse trailer will (at some point) transport a horse that does not belong to them.

Accident, Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) This is the second insurance policy that is automatically provided to the member in good standing with the OEF. This AD&D policy has a principal sum limit of $30,000. The principal sum is the amount that is used to determine how much the member will receive if they sustain a (listed) injury which resulted from an equine accident. The amount paid will be a multiple of $30,000 or a portion of $30,000. The schedule (or list) of injuries is what determines how much will be paid.

Paraplegia, quadriplegia, loss of sight, loss of a limb, loss of hearing are all examples of the types of injures that are scheduled (or listed) and therefore, covered. Death from an equine accident is also covered. *NEW* • The included and automatic $30,000 AD&D policy now provides a fracture injury benefit of up to $750. The amount paid is determined by: 1. The bone that is fractured 2. If the member is wearing an equine industry approved helmet at the time of the injury • The included and automatic AD&D benefit now provides up to $500 dental benefit if the injury occurs as a result of an equine related accident.

What this AD&D policy does NOT cover is any: 1. Loss of income 2. Rehab costs for injuries that are not scheduled on the policy 3. Members who are over ninety years of age The policy is in force twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and covers the member anywhere in the world.

Ask Mike

The policy will pay regardless of any other similar insurance policy that may be in place for the member. These types of insurance (AD&D) stack, so conceivably the injured person could collect from more than one insurer if they have more than one insurance policy that covers the same loss.

The automatic insurance program is an excellent benefit, at a very low cost, that addresses the reality of being involved with horses. As many members and readers will already know, OEF members can also purchase optional insurance programs.

Enhanced Accident, Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) If the member chooses, they can opt to increase the principal sum of AD&D coverage provided to them by an additional $50,000.

When this optional coverage is purchased, there is also enhanced coverage provided for fracture (up to $1,500) and dental (up to $5,000) injuries. *Please note* – fracture and dental benefits are maximized if you are wearing an equine industry approved helmet.

Optional Travel Coverage Members can obtain a travel/medical policy through the OEF that will cover out of province and out of country emergency medical expenses that might be incurred. This policy covers any number of trips the member may take throughout the year, anywhere in the world, for the first ninety days of any one trip.

This policy recognizes that the member may be involved in horse related activities when they travel and if they have an accident that requires medical attention, the coverage will be there.

There are exclusions and, as one would expect, conditions of coverage can be impacted by pre-existing medical conditions.

This coverage is not available to members over seventy years of age.

Optional “Members Named Perils” Horse Insurance If the member chooses and pays for this optional insurance coverage, they will have obtained horse mortality (life) insurance for any horse they own if the horse dies as a result of one of the insured perils (causes of death): • Fire • Lightning • Transport

The maximum the policy will pay is $4,000 for any one loss. The territory for coverage to respond is anywhere in North America. The maximum benefit for any one term, for any one member is $4,000. There is no deductible.

This policy does not cover vet expenses or death arising from any other cause.

As the insurance broker for all members, we also offer FULL MORTALITY insurance (a product called EQUI CARE that covers the horse for death arising from ANY ACCIDENT OR SICKNESS and offer discounted rates for this broad coverage). EQUI CARE can also be extended to cover emergency medical/surgical expenses that might be incurred – a great product that is very inexpensive. If you do want information regarding the product, call our office and we can send out some detailed information.

Definitions and Other Quick Facts 1. Who is an insured: under the OEF member insurance program, it will come as no surprise that only the member is the insured - not the member’s friend, not the member’s coach, not the member’s boarding place owner… only the member.

2. It does not matter how many horses you own to have coverage under the personal liability policy that is included in your membership and it does not matter if you board the horses away from your home.

3. The personal liability policy will not provide coverage for you if you are sued because you let someone else ride your horse and they fall off and get injured unless the person riding the horse is also a member of a provincial equine association or is a person who earns their living in whole or in part in the horse industry. The OEF set this rule in place years ago to encourage membership. The solution is simple; ensure the rider is an OEF member before you let them ride your horse. Then you (and they) are covered.

4. If someone else is holding your horse and the horse kicks them, bites them, stomps on them, etc. and they decide to hold you legally liable for their injury, then you are covered (they do not have to be members).

5. If the member is a junior (minor) and owns the horse and a lawsuit is launched against the member because the horse did “something” to “someone” it is almost certain that the junior’s parent or guardian is going to be named as a co-defendant. In this circumstance, the OEF policy will protect the junior and the parent or guardian – automatically.

6. I f t h e mem b er allows their c o a c h to use their horse in a riding instruction environment (perhaps for a reduction in board, lessons, etc.) then beware of the legal implications. The OEF policy will NOT protect the member if the horse causes bodily injury or property damage while being used “commercially”. There is a simple solution. The member should request that the coach/boarding place owner (user of the horse) provide a certificate of insurance to confirm that they have commercial general liability insurance in place – we recommend a limit of no less than $2,000,000 AND have the user’s insurance provider add the name of the horse owner/member to the commercial general liabilit y insurance policy as additional insured. This simple endorsement typically has no cost associated with it and will potentially protect the member.

7. The AD&D policy is for the member – not the member’s horse – if you wish to insure your horse against injury or death, we can help… but under a separate policy.

Recently, we have added a new optional coverage that covers Loss of Income. This is an inexpensive insurance policy that will replace lost income if you are unable to work or continue to earn income as a direct result of an unexpected injury.

Coverage includes: • The benefit available is up to $500/week and is paid tax free!

• The coverage is 24/ 7 and covers any injury, any where (it is not restricted to horse related injuries).

• The waiting period to be eligible for benefits is only 8 days.

• Benefits will be paid up to a maximum of 26 weeks T he Loss of Income policy contains specific acceptance criteria that should be confirmed before purchase is made.

Contact Intercity Insurance directly for more information.

The above information is a summar y only and should not be construed to be a complete detail of coverage or exclusions that may apply. We urge all members to contact our trained insurance professionals at 1-800-670-1877 with any and all inquiries about the insurance programs that are provided through the Ontario Equestrian Federation. _ www.horse.on.ca | 51

Legal

LET’S MAKE A DEAL Purchasing a horse

by Catherine E. Willson, B.A., Ll.B.

52 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Purchasing a horse is usually a big money item.

Often a horse is more expensive than a car but historically, no paper changes hands, just the horse. No matter how honest or professional or knowledgeable the seller appears to be at the time of purchase, you must paper the deal.

Finding and purchasing a good horse is one third experience, one third art, and one third luck. Everyone wants the deal to be successful but when it is not and there is a problem with the horse, very few people will be willing to accept responsibility. A sale agreement can go a very long way to resolving disputes and ensuring that problems are addressed fairly.

I have listed below three common examples of problems arising after the sale of a horse.

Each is slightly different and would be treated differently in a court of law. In cases where statements made by the seller about the horse later prove to be untrue, the buyer may have recourse against the seller and in some cases, will be permitted to get his money back.

Statements made by the seller describing the horse can usually be divided into two categories: warranties and conditions.

Example 1 - Warranties: A woman is seeking an experienced show jumper to train and show. She finds a horse that is suitable and sound. She purchases the horse and prepares for the show season. The papers for the horse arrive one month after purchase and indicate that the horse is 12 years old. She was told that the horse was 9 years old on purchase. She is concerned that the resale value of the horse will be significantly compromised because of the horse’s age. She had assumed that she would sell the horse at its peak in a couple of years. She did not inform the vendor of this intention at the time of sale.

Result: The purchaser would have to keep the horse and sue for damages. Where the seller has misrepresented a fact about the horse that is not fundamental to the sale agreement, the seller has breached a warranty of the sale agreement. Warranties are statements that are collateral to the main purpose of the sale agreement and therefore, of less significance to the sale than a representation of, for example, soundness of the animal.

T he purc h aser woul d b e entitle d to obtain damages against the vendor for the

Legal

misrepresentation. The amount of damages would be linked to the difference between the price she paid for the horse and its actual value at its true age. Breach of a warranty entitles a purchaser to damages only.

Example 2 – Conditions of Sale: A family is purchasing a horse for their teenager to ride as a hunter/jumper. Their trainer asks the vendor about the horse’s history including any issues regarding soundness or illness.

The vendor indicates that the horse has always been sound and well. Shortly after purchase, the animal starts to go slightly lame on the right front. A veterinarian is called in to examine the horse. Through a c o in c i d e n c e, t h e s a m e vete r in a r i a n examined the horse for the vendor one year earlier and diagnosed the horse with early navicular disease. The veterinarian confirms this diagnosis with the purchasers. The horse will never be sufficiently sound to act as a hunter/jumper.

Result: The purchasers are most likely entitled to return the horse to the vendor in exchange

for the purchase price plus any other damages suffered by the purchasers. A statement made by a seller about a horse that goes to the root of the sale contract is called a condition of the sale. A condition must relate to a quality of the horse that is of fundamental importance to the buyer and without which, the buyer would never have purchased the horse. Soundness is an obvious condition of sale. No purchaser would purchase a horse that is known to be unsound.

As a simple test, ask yourself whether you would have bought the horse if you had known the statement made by the seller was untrue at the time of purchase. If the answer is "No", the statement is a condition of the sale.

Where a seller has misrepresented a condition of the sale agreement, the buyer is usually entitled to rescission. This is best described as an attempt to place the parties back in their original positions as if the sale had not taken place. The buyer is entitled to return the horse to the seller in exchange for the money paid plus any costs incurred by the buyer for board, blacksmith’s fees, veterinary costs, etc., relating to the reasonable care of the horse.

Consider the difficult position of the veterinarian: would the vet be able to disclose the previous diagnosis to the current purchaser without breaching her duties of confidentiality to the vendor?

Example 3 – Implied Conditions of Sale: A family wants to buy a first pony for their young son. They do not know much about horses and are reliant on the son’s horse riding instructor to help them pick a pony.

The instructor actually runs quite a busy barn and buys and sells horses on a regular basis.

She sells them one of her ponies. After a week, it becomes apparent that the pony is too much for the boy. It has run away with him twice and now he is afraid to ride it.

With other more experienced youngsters, the pony has always behaved well. The parents want their money back.

Result: The pony is sound and well. It is just too much pony for this boy. In this instance, the riding instructor is caught by the Sale of Goods Act. Where the buyer, expressly or by implication, makes known to the seller the particular purpose for which the goods (horse) are required so as to show that the buyer relies on the seller’s skill or judgment, and the goods are of a description that it is

in the seller’s business to supply, there is an implied condition that the goods (horse) will be reasonably fit for such purpose.

In this case, the riding instructor knew what the boy needed. The pony that she supplied was not fit for this purpose. As a result of this breach of a condition of sale, the purchasers are entitled to rescission meaning the return of the horse for the purchase price paid.

Protect Yourself With a Written Contract When buying a horse, it is best not to rely on the remedies listed above. The most important advice I can give you is to put the deal in writing. As a basic rule, the sale contract should be signed by both the seller and the buyer and witnessed. As a buyer, anything you consider important about the horse and its purchase should be written into the sale contract. If an important fact is not in the sale contract and the seller later denies it, you will have difficulty proving it in Court.

The following points can be included in a sale agreement: 1. t h e n a m e s o f t h e p a r t i e s t o t h e agreement, their descriptions as seller and buyer, and their addresses; 2. a description of the horse; 3. the price and payment terms; 4. the date and place of delivery; 5. conditions of the contract (soundness, suitability of the horse for a specific p u r p o s e, f re e d o m f ro m v i c e, etc ., whatever is important to you); and 6. any thing else that is included in the sale such as tack, papers, passpor t, vaccination certificate, etc.

The sale agreement can be very simple and no longer than a page. Depending on the value of the horse, it may be much longer and detailed. It is up to you – just put it in writing. An ounce of prevention! _

Catherine Willson is a founding partner at Willson Lewis LLP in Toronto, Ontario, with expertise in Equine law. The legal information provided in this article is based on the laws of Ontario. If you find yourself in a situation to which this article may apply, please consult a lawyer before acting or relying on any of the statements made herein.

Readers may also contact cwillson@willsonlewis. com to discuss any specific issues they may have or visit their website at www.willsonlewis.com. www.horse.on.ca | 53

Going Green

Eco Labeling 101 Green Equine Products Most horse people have a passion not only for our equine friends, but for the clean, healthy environment that sustains them and often draws us to them in the first place.

“Green” products began to emerge as a commercial phenomenon in the ‘70’s, and since then consumers and governments are looking at ways to clarify and standardize the claims being made. As horse people, we are concerned about a range of products - rider products (from saddles to apparel), horse products (grooming, feed and supplements, pest control), barn/horsekeeping (bedding), transportation and equipment and the list goes on. We could consider the product ingredients, production processes, packaging, bio-degradability and recyclability.

“Green” products are now regulated in ways that allow us to make better-informed choices about the horse, rider and barn products and equipment we buy.

Canada’s labeling standards are developed by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and enforced by a range of government agencies.

The details are extensive and complex, but tend to fall into a group of key general principles. For example, vague and non-specific claims like “environmentally friendly”, “ozone friendly” and “this product is better for the environment” are discouraged. Labeling should be specific, such as “this product uses 25% less energy”, “the packaging for this product is made from 54 | WHOA! Fall 2011

recycled material” and “we no longer use aerosol ingredients in this product”. It’s worth noting that the “product” includes the packaging, so it’s possible that the packaging has an environmental benefit but the content does not.

Canada’s eco-labeling standards can be regulated within 3 categories; Type 1 – which have been independently verified and certified to improve energy efficiency, reduce hazardous by-products and or use recycled materials.

These products can be labeled “Environmental Choice” or “Energy Star”. Type II products are self-declared as environmentally friendly. The manufacturers must have product information on-hand that verifies their claims but they are not independently verified. And finally, Type III products must include environmental data declarations, which the CSA describes as similar to food labeling. The difficulty with this third category for the average consumer is the difficulty in assessing the characteristics of the product and its environmental impacts, although all eco-labeling claims can be challenged and manufacturers must be able to support their claims … with all the free time horse people tend to have (or not)!

The Mobius Loop is the only eco-symbol that is used internationally and has wide recognition as representing that there are environmental benefits

associated with certain products. Other symbols used in labeling, such as trees and fish, may suggest an earth-friendly product but are not part of the recognized labeling structure and may be deceiving so beware of relying on those symbols alone.

The good news is that eco -labeling standards are better than ever and, with a little knowledge, you can make good consumer choices for yourself and your horse.

If you’d like to explore this issue in more depth, here are some links that may be of interest – • http://www.csa.ca/cm/ca/en/consumers/ consumers-to-environmental-labeling • http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/ site/cb-bc.nsf/vwapj/guide-for-industry-andadvertisers-en.pdf/$FILE/guide-for-industryand-advertisers-en.pdf • http://www.greenapplehorse.com/index. php?option=com_content&view=frontpage& Itemid=1 _

Some Treasure Chests Are Just A Little More Valuable Than Others Tired of reading superficial, recycled articles that offer nothing new? Looking for actual editorial that makes you think? HorseCare Magazine offers that and much more.

Five years ago HorseCare Magazine burst on to the Canadian landscape and has never looked back. With an unwavering focus on equine health it stands head and shoulders above all the rest. It challenges conventional thinking but always offers practical advice and insight into the real problems that horse owners face every day.

If you’re not already a subscriber or know someone who should be, serve up a healthy portion of knowledge and subscribe today. The appetite you satisfy will be your own.

HorseCare Magazine is a Platinum Partner with the Ontario Equestrian Federation and joins in providing education and support to individuals, associations and companies in Ontario’s horse community.

To subscribe, see your 2011 Ontario Equestrian Federation renewal application or visit the OEF website

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Special 1 Year Rate $24.00 (includes HST) The OEF represents more than 20,000 individual members, more than 40 equine breed and discipline associations and over 275 companies and stables.

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Nutrition

WINTER NUTRITION

FOR HORSES

by Josée Lalonde

With winter just around the corner, this upcoming season tests a horse owners commitment to their equine friends; let’s face it, it is a lot more pleasant and easy to take care of our horses in the summer under the sun than in the grey and cold Canadian winter season!

Even if equines are better able to cope with the bitter cold than with extreme heat, it is when the temperature drops that they particularly need our help to face the risks of winter, particularly if they spend this season outdoors. From the nutritional point of view, essential elements must be in plentiful supply for your horse to withstand the harsh winter season.

How to help your horse retain body heat First, it is important to know that a horse’s energy requirements (calories) increase when the external temperature decreases. The colder the horse’s environment, the more calories it burns to maintain internal body heat. In winter,

56 | WHOA! Fall 2011

one of the dangers that a horse faces is loss of weight if his soaring caloric needs are not met.

In fact, some studies have shown that it is when the thermometer reaches the turning point of -10°C (14°F) that horses begin to burn additional calories to maintain adequate thermoregulation. Again research has shown that when the thermometer plunges below -10°C, a horse weighing roughly 500 kg experiences an increase in his metabolic rhythm and an increase of 35% in internal heat, just to stay warm. Below this, every loss of 1°C relative to -10°C requires an increase in caloric intake of 2.5%.

Good quality fiber At this point, let’s examine the best way of compensating for this increase in caloric needs by horses. Even if grain and complete feeds offer more calories than hay, it is still recommended to increase the hay intake of horses during the winter months. W hy? Bec ause fiber

Nutrition

based food is digested in the caecum of the horse thanks to microbial fermentation, a complex process that produces substantial heat and helps horses withstand the cold.

The digestion of grains, that takes place in the small intestine, is a much simpler process and contrary to fiber fermentation, it doesn’t result in significant heat production.

Adding a few flakes of good quality hay to the normal ration of the adult horse can thus be sufficient to help it fight the winter risks, provided that the horse is healthy and has an adequate body condition and winter coat. Needless to say, the daily amount of hay added must be directly proportional to the decrease in temperature.

Fiber and fat based concentrates On the other hand, one must not assume that all horses will be able to go through t h e w inte r p e r i o d w i t h o u t d i f f i c ul tie s simply by adding hay to their diet. After all, there is a limit on the quantity of hay which a horse can consume on a daily basis.

In some cases, the addition of hay to its ration will not be sufficient and an increase or an addition of concentrates must then be contemplated. Thin horses, be they

in tr ainin g , si c k o r o l d , g e s t atin g o r lactating mares as well as growing foals are specific cases that, most often, will require an increase in concentrates. Aside from growing foals, the above mentioned horses will benefit in the winter from a complete feed constituted of fiber and fat, particularly if the hay is of inferior quality.

Such a feed has many benefits. Because of the high fiber content, it plays a similar role as hay insofar as the production of heat is concerned. Also, it provides more calories due to the superior digestibility of the fiber source it usually contains and because of the high level of fat, another efficient source of calories. Make sure the feed you offer your horse is based on vegetable fat, not animal fat.

For young horses, it is recommended to select a feed specifically formulated for the particular needs of growth. A complete feed specific to foals with high fiber content and with added fat is a good choice.

Whether hay or concentrates are added to the horse’s ration to prevent loss of weight in winter, it is recommended to confirm with the feed supplier’s nutrition consultant if the vit amin and mineral content of the ration is adequate. In many cases, a balancing supplement needs to be added, particularly if the quantity of concentrates provided is weak.

Water: The most important nutrient A horse’s water consumption is always crucial. Without a sufficient water intake, the horse’s body and digestive system can no longer function adequately. With the advent of winter, water consumption may be problematic as water becomes very cold and freezes. As winter approaches, the horse goes from a fiber ingredient with a high level of water (pasture) to a fiber ingredient that contains a low level of water (dry hay).

This difference is one of the root causes of a frequent problem in winter: Impaction colic. It is of primary importance for a horse living outdoors to always have access to a water of good quality as it must consume

at least 40 liters (approximately 10 gallons) of water every day. A half frozen water container or a container full of snow is almost useless as it doesn’t meet the significant needs of the horse in any way. Furthermore, if the horse consumes very cold water, its body temperature will decrease and it will need to spend a lot of energy to stay warm.

There is one simple way to prevent the water from freezing in winter: Investing in a heated horse waterer. This is the best investment you can make to prevent impaction colic and choking. You will thus save the resulting veterinary costs and the stressful fear of losing a valuable animal. Research has shown that a horse will drink a larger quantity of water when the water temperature is kept around 18°C (65°F).

For horses spending most of their winter time inside the barn, water consumption can become problematic. Even if the water doesn’t necessarily freeze in the drinking trough, its cold temperature may discourage the horse from drinking. The use of individual buckets with properly hidden heating elements is crucial for poor drinkers as it will allow you to maintain the water at the desired temp erature. To help your horse drink sufficiently and prevent health problems, you c an wet the feed with hot water, par ticularly if it is fiber based. Before offering it to the horse, soak the feed until all water is absorbed.

Finally, it is crucial to carefully monitor your horse’s water consumption and verify its hydration level by regularly using the skin pinch test or by keeping an eye on the texture of the manure. If the horse doesn’t consume enough water, adding one or two ounces of salt (100% NaCl) per meal, as well as offering a block of free-choice salt, is an excellent way of making sure that your animal will drink.

The Secret: Monitor the body condition From the practical level, the most scientific calculation pertaining to mega-calories will never replace evaluating the body condition of each horse. We must emphasize the www.horse.on.ca | 57

Nutrition importance of manual evaluation of body condition since from October to April or May the horse’s winter coat is deceptive and will give every animal a fleshy look.

Eve r y 15 to 3 0 d ay s , t hro u g h o u t t h e winter period, it is essential to palpate the horse to determine the deposit of sub cutaneous fat around the rib cage, on the withers, on the spine, at the tail head as well as behind the shoulders and at the neck. This body condition scoring remains the most reliable tool in determining the effectiveness of the ration from the caloric point of view, and will allow adjusting the ration depending on whether the horse is losing or gaining weight. For an adult horse spending the winters outdoors, a body score of 6 to 6.5, on a scale of 1 to 9 (1 for an emaciated horse, 9 for an obese one) will provide the animal with enough fat to more easily withstand the rigors of winter. You will then avoid the unpleasant surprise of finding an emaciated animal in the springtime when it will be shedding its winter coat.

Key points to remember One myth that needs to be dispelled it is that in the winter, when the horses are outdoors, they do not need water because t hey c an e at sn ow. T his is false an d cannot be fur ther from the truth! Snow will never replace water for your horse. A heated drinking trough is necessary unless you bring your animal a bucket of warm water several times a day. Yes, meeting the needs of one’s animal in the winter involves considerable efforts.

An old horse is par ticularly sensitive to loss of weight in winter as well as to impaction colic. To prevent impactions, make sure that its teeth and mouth are sound and that it drinks a sufficient amount of water. Most of all, pay particular attention to its body condition and always provide it with nourishment based on your findings, even if this means providing soaked concentrates three or four times a day. To maintain your old companion’s health, food supply must be adjusted based on its needs and not ours. An old horse’s health tends to decline very rapidly in winter, particularly if it is kept outdoors; any winter loss of body condition may be very hard to regain in the spring. Do not be misled by the winter coat.

Bran Mash that is soaked in hot water will help keep the horse warm. Truth or fiction? Fiction. Bran mash will warm up our heart much more than the body of our horse! If it does warm up its body, it does so temporarily.

Other legend: There is nothing better than adding whole corn to the horse’s ration to keep it warm. Yes, it is true that whole corn produces heat when it is fermented in the large intestine but at what price! The starch of whole corn is digested with great difficulty in the horse’s small intestine; it reaches the caecum, and produces fermentation and heat. Unfortunately, this fermentation of starch in the horse’s caecum affects the organ’s bacteria and can cause health problems such as gas colic and laminitis. Be it winter or summer, whole corn is not a food of choice for horses neither is cracked corn which is just as hard to digest.

As winter approaches, it is important to have your horse go through a complete medical checkup, particularly if it is getting older. It is during that time that normal preventative medicine and care are provided, be it vaccines and dewormers or foot, dental and mouth care. It is also a good time to review a horse’s diet and, if necessary, make the appropriate changes to it.

The horse’s winter coat is very efficient in protecting the animal during the cold season because it retains heat and keeps humidity away. Nevertheless, this natural coat doesn’t protect the horse all the time. The worse situation affecting a horse living outdoors in winter is rain with cold wind. An external shelter strategically placed so as to protect the animal from prevailing winds must be provided and made accessible under all weather conditions.

Depending on the level of exercise, it is preferable to completely or par tially shave the horse whose regular training continues during winter. Other wise, the winter coat will trap the sweat and it will be more susceptible to catching “colds” after exercising. When outdoors in the winter season, any shaven horse must wear a solid and properly adjusted blanket to be protected from the cold. During training, par ticular at tention must be brought to warm up and to cooling exercises before and after training. These exercises must typically be long and gradual in nature. _ Josée Lalonde is part of the Technical Services and Marketing Team, Equine Division Agribrands Purina Canada www.agripurina.ca

Obituary Dr. Ralph Watt It was with great sadness that the family of Ralph Watt had to announce his peaceful passing at his home on August 3, 2011 at the age of 81.

Predeceased by his wife, Joanne (nee Elliott). Dear father of Sandy, Bruce and Peggy (David) and beloved Grandpa to Stephanie and Kyle.

Originally from Lancaster, Ontario, he is survived by his sister, Lorna (John) MacLeod and brothers Colan (Gwen) Watt and Donald (Pat) Watt and many nieces and nephews. Pre-deceased 58 | WHOA! Fall 2011

by sisters Alison (Bill) Tett and Helen (Stuart) Upton.

Dr. Wa t t w a s a ve r y we l l respected veterinarian in the Markham and Stouffville areas, and recently celebrated 50 years of veterinary practice. After graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph in 1960 he began his career at the Thornhill Veterinary Clinic and later moved to Markham where he established his own equine and small animal practice, the Mount Joy Animal

Clinic. Most recently Dr. Watt owned and practiced out of the Ballantrae Plaza Veterinary Clinic where he will be greatly missed by the wonderful team of Dr. Al Thompson, Dr. Karen Drewell, Joanne George, Lori Tuck, Bene Goodman, and clients. Dr. Watt fully enjoyed his work and was dedicated to his clients to his very last day.

The OEF sends its deepest condolences to Dr. Watt’s friends and family. _

Insuring your horse

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For when he needs you the most hat do regular grooming, good nutrition, current vaccinations, and proper hoof care all have in common hey are essential to protecting your horse and keeping him safe, healthy and happy But who will protect you if these measures fail and your horse becomes ill or suffers an accident o matter how hard we try, horses get sick and have accidents, often resulting in huge e penses, or worse yet, death hat would you do if you were faced with vet bills beyond your ability to pay orse insurance cannot prevent accidents or sickness, but it can help you bring your horse back to health without damaging your pocketbook And in the unfortunate event that your e uine partner dies or needs to be euthani ed, the proceeds from a horse insurance policy can effectively protect the financial investment you have made o why is it people cringe when they hear the word insurance any people feel that when they buy insurance all they get is a piece of

paper, when in fact, insurance is meant to provide you with total peace of mind when something goes wrong his peace of mind can only be achieved if you understand your policy and trust your insurance broker A good horse insurance broker will gain their clients’ trust by demonstrating good knowledge of both horses and insurance, so it is very important to make sure you are dealing with a broker who truly understands the needs of horse owners BFL’s uine nsurance eam has been insuring horses for over years e are horse people with a variety of backgrounds including show jumping, western, dressage, reining, eventing, and more e really know horses f course, the most important part of horse insurance is handling claims BFL reali es when a horse suffers a major illness or injury, the first phone call must always be to the veterinarian so that emergency treatment can be given he horse’s welfare must always come first!

After the vet has been notified, call BFL using our hour emergency claims line

answered by e perienced horse insurance staff e will ease your stress during this difficult time by working with the vet to help you understand your options and best course of action to take Buying horse insurance is a smart move to help your horse and protect your investment on’t be afraid to ask your broker uestions – you are better off to understand your coverage before a claim happens orse insurance doesn’t have to be painful – so don’t cringe! Protect your friend and investment with a complete BFL horse insurance package today

Breed & Discipline Updates Mounted Games Interest Soars Every season is exciting but this 2011 has been exceptional one for mounted games riders. Mounted Games Across Canada (MGAC) hosted five competitions this season, in addition to an educational clinic.

Membership numbers reflect the surge of interest in mounted games, as more and more people realize the benefits to both horse and rider of participating in this sport.

One of the breed organizations to recognize the advantages of variety and cross-training are the Paso Fino enthusiasts, and members of the local group joined us throughout the summer. In previous years, we’ve had gaited horses and riders from as far away as Ottawa.

The final competition of the season included the presentation of awards for the 2011 overall points champions. In the Open Division, Mike McCulligh of Fergus, ON was the winner. In the Novice Division, Maddie and Cecilia Heaton-Smith of Elora, ON were

tied for first place and both received MGAC coolers.

And it’s not over. A clinic on equestrian first aid is planned to take place this fall and everyone is welcome. As well, the year-end celebration and annual general meeting are in the works.

The annual general meeting provides an opportunity for all members to share in the decisions concerning our organization and its activities. There will be a review of MGAC business as well as planning for the 2012 season. Watch our website for the date and location.

We continue to enjoy the excellent facilities afforded by the Grand River Raceway in Elora. It would be hard to find a more perfect venue: huge playing field, perfect footing, dedicated barbeque and dining tent, and access to all the facility’s amenities.

Last but most certainly not least, are our

Mike McCulligh is presented with the 2011 MGAC Points Champion cooler

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volunteers. We are continually amazed at, and grateful for, the energy and enthusiasm of the many volunteers who step forward to share the setup, teardown and props management at every event.

Mounted Games Across Canada is a member organization of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. Please visit our website at www.mgac.ca for information about mounted games, membership, and calendar of events. _

Correction Correction Statement – photo page #58 WHOA! Summer 2011- in the "Go Big or Go Home - The Ontario Morgan Horse Club" article on the top of page 58, it features a picture of a young woman riding her horse with the caption "Jennifer Sills riding her horse Trillium Red Hot Chili Pepper." The picture is in fact of Lauren McGinty riding her horse Hillwood Irish Proverb, better known as "Riley"

NETWORKING

519-355-4922 60 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Photo Credit: Reuss Griffiths photo.

Breed & Discipline Updates

SSTEAM - Holly Donaldson Champion - Arabian Western Pleasure JTR14-17 TT - Arabian Western Pleasure JOTR14-17 Huck Fynne – Gail Nickle TT - Arabian Hunter Pleasure AAOTR40 & Over TT - Arabian Hunter Pleasure AATR40 & Over Baskin inthe Sun – Holly Donaldson TT - Arabian Hunter Pleasure JOTR14-17 TT - Arabian Hunter Pleasure JTR14-17 Colorado RF – Kailan Clark TT - Dressage First Level TT - Arabian Sport Horse Under Saddle JTR17 & Over TT - Dressage Training Level ATR

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Love In The Ayre and Vivianne Macdonald and Right: Bask N Coins+/ and Diana Macdonald at a water crossing at the 2010 Celebration CTR, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Love In The Ayre - Half Arabian/Hackney Horse (Amurath Baikal X Clovercroft Lucky Jenny), Bask N Coins+/ - Half Arabian/Appaloosa (C Baskof Darkness X FM Byline Coinage)

Versatile Arabians Shine at Canadian Nationals

by Jane Whitwell “An Arabian will take care of its owner as no other horse will, for it has not only been raised to physical perfection, but has been instilled with a spirit of loyalty unparalleled by that of any other breed.”

Historically the Arabian has maintained a reputation as the horse of beauty, intelligence, courage, endurance and athleticism. From the earliest records the Arabian was bred and reared in close contact with man, from desert war horse to sharing the tent of the desert nomads, the breed has developed an unequalled ability to bond with humans.

As the oldest of all the light horse breeds and foundation stock of the majority, the Arabian is unique. The high intelligence, trainability, gentle disposition and stamina of the Arabian enable the breed to excel in a wide variety of activities popular today, be it show horse, recreational trail horse,

to jumping, dressage, reining, cutting, driving, or racing, these all provide ample opportunities for fun and enjoyment for the youngest horse enthusiast to the seasoned adult rider. As an endurance horse the Arabian has no equal as the top prizes at endurance events almost always go to those mounted on Arabians. In addition, the Arabians’ desert heritage is evident in their loyalty and trust towards their owner, making them the perfect horse for family members of all ages and skill.

OEF and Ontario AHA members had great results at the Canadian Arabian Nationals in Brandon Manitoba that took place August 15 to 20, 2011. This was the first year that the event was held in Brandon, after its twenty-two years in Regina. The facility was fabulous, the staff was wonderful and the quality of horses was exceptional. The results for Ontario based horses were:

Shake It Up – Tara Porter TT - HA Country English Pleasure AAOTR18-39 TT - HA Mounted Native Costume AAOTR SKF Aristotle – Josh Shildroth TT - HA Hunter Pleasure TT - HA Hunter Pleasure AAOTR18-39 TT - HA Hunter Pleasure AATR18-39 Slam Dunkks – Michelle Harbridge TT - HA Hunter Pleasure AAOTR40&Over TT - HA Hunter Pleasure Junior Horse Travelin Man 2A – Janet Schaub TT - HA/AA Hunter Pleasure AAOTR40&Over The Exceptional Rose – Lise Clark – Kailin Clark TT - HA Sport Horse Under Saddle JTR17&Under TT - Dressage Second Level Kailin Clark Champion - Hunt Seat Equitation Not To Jump JTR14-17 Psyklon CCA – Allan Ehrlick TT - Arabian Sport Horse Geldings In Hand TT - Arabian Sport Horse Geldings In Hand ATR TT - Arabian Hunter Hack Avatar Cat Ballou – Wes Eddy TT - Arabian Mares Breeding For more information on the Arabian breed please visit www.arabianhorses.org or for information about the Arabian Horse Association of Eastern Canada please visit www.ahaec.on.ca. _

www.horse.on.ca | 61

Breed & Discipline Updates

by Katie Stephenson When one hears the word “eventing”, the first thoughts that come to mind are massive fences and fast speeds. Pony Club presents a different version of eventing, especially when it comes to D Rally (the yearly event that is aimed at members from D to D2 levels).

This year’s Central Ontario D Rally was held in Mount Albert at Foggy River Farms. The heights of the fences and the questions that are asked are based on the testing levels, and so it may seem a bit different than Ontario Horse Trials Association (OHTA) events. The highest level of the day, D2, competes over fences maxed out at 2’6”.

However, it’s the lowest level riders at the D level that bring out the biggest smiles and the biggest cheers. There are no half passes in their dressage test. There is walk, and when the ponies co-operate, trot. In stadium the fences are all cross rails; but there is a judge and start and finish flags. Cross Country is the most altered. You see, the Pony Club D level does not involve any jumping. These riders must stop, steer, walk and trot to achieve their D rating. Cross Country at the D level consists of compulsory flags on a course in an open field, some small hills, and it is all done at walk and trot. While this may sound simple compared to eleven and a half minutes of galloping down to the biggest fences in the world, sitting on a stubborn pony that would rather eat the grass than walk on it makes it one of the toughest challenges these young riders have ever faced. The looks of determination on their faces as they leave their first start box are surpassed only by the giant grins on their faces as they cross their first finish line! As one rider so accurately phrased it when asked how her ride went “Oh! It was awesome!” _

62 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Canadian Sport Horse Association Profile: King Ridge Stables

by Tracy Hanes

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Photo Credit: Yavuz

Canadian Pony Club D Rally – The Best of Beginnings

Hugh Graham and Executive Privilege 3E won the 2011 Blainville FEI World Cup Qualifier

King Ridge Stables is putting Canadian Sport Horses on the international equestrian map.

The farm, with operations in King Township, Ontario and in Ocala, Florida, is owned by Seymour and Gloria Epstein. Veteran Canadian Equestrian Team member Hugh Graham is head trainer and grand prix rider.

Its Canadian Sport Horse breeding program is based on breeding a select number of top-performing mares to the farm’s proven performance stallions (Jamestown, Money Talks, Class Action, Double Diamond), who have elite European bloodlines such as Voltaire, Nimmerdor, Furioso II, Cor de la Bryere, Libero H, Gotthard, Alme Z, Quidam de Revel, Darco, etc. All King Ridge homebreds carry the 3E suffix after their names to denote Epstein Equestrian Enterprises Inc. King Ridge homebreds are consistently in the ribbons at top hunter and jumper grand prix competitions. Executive Privilege 3E, Fifth Estate 3E, Distant Star 3E and Grand Finale 3E are proven grand prix jumpers. (Eg. this summer, Executive Privilege 3E won the 2011 Blainville FEI World Cup Qualifier.)

In Your Dreams 3E, a chestnut mare by Double Diamond, was second year Working Hunter Champion at the Caledon Equestrian Park in mid-May. In July, Karma 3E finished champion of the Baby Green Hunter Division in the third week of showing in his career.

Two other King Ridge-bred horses are excelling as eventers. High Society 3E, shown as Foxwood High and ridden by Selena O'Hanlon of Elgin, Ontario has been named to the Canadian Eventing Squad for the Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. The bay gelding is owned by John Rumble.

Rider Jolie Wentworth, Martinez, California and Good Knight 3E, a 9-year-old Canadian Sport Horse owned by Tracey Bowman, sired by Jamestown out of Double Diamond II, have been named as replacements for the U.S. Team at the Pan Ams. And 16-year-old Nora Gray of Owen Sound, riding the Canadian Sport Horse mare Cashmere, finished as top Canadian in the jumper standings at the Vermont Summer Festival. The mare was bred

by Nora’s parents, Jim and Jennifer Gray, who operate Jack Pine Equestrian Center in Owen Sound and is out of a Zucarlos mare by King Ridge’s stallion Jamestown. _

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Breed & Discipline Updates Now Available! The Canadian Road Horse Association 40th Anniversary DVD The Canadian Road Horse Association (CRHA) is excited to announce that a DVD video, in celebration of the CRHA's 40th anniversary, is now available.

The video honours the heritage of the association with features on Hall of Fame Inductees; tributes to the champions of Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (RAWF) Bike and Wagon Stakes between the years of 1996 to 2010; and Ontario Harness Horse Association (OHHA) Green Roadster

Classic Winners since the inception of the class in 2001.

Additionally, there are many other photos and video clips of association members and supporters throughout the years. The video runs approximately 35 minutes long.

Videos will be sold at a cost of $30 each. To see a preview of the video and order your copy, please visit the CRHA website at www.roadhorse.ca. _

Ontario Competitive Trail Riding Association Update

Photo Credit Deanna Ramsay

by Nicola Wager

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NAJYRC endurance competitors left to right Jessica Yavis (BC), Emma Webb (ON), Lee Hutten (ON)

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Photo Credit: Wendy Webb

Photo of Moncia Grundmann and Excalibur Legend

The 2011 Ontario Provincial Competitive Trail Ride (CTR) Championship was held on the back roads and trails of the spectacular Beaver Valley near Flesherton, ON over the August long weekend.

Covering over 90 km over two days the 11-year old breeding Morab stallion, Excalibur Legend was ridden with no shoes, leg or foot protection to take the Lightweight and Overall Championship.

Legend is owned, trained and ridden by Monica Grundmann from Bainsville. Moncia says, "We do ride carefully on the rocks and pebbles and I listen to him when he prefers not to accelerate on footing that he doesn't quite care for. It is not for every horse to do this, that’s for sure. But so far Legend has proven to be fine. Legend has been barefoot all his life." Congratulations, Monica and Legend!

Riders have a set time to cover the marked trail and are judged on the horse’s veterinary score, presentation of the horse and time on trail. Over seventy riders participated in various competitions over the weekend. Of these, sixteen

entered the two-day championship ride and all successfully completed. A 100% completion rate is unusual over such a tough course. This speaks well for the riders' conditioning of their horses, judicial care and pacing on the rocky, steep trails.

Heavyweight champion for the twoday event was veteran rider Elaine Steele of Mountain Grove on her home-raised Arabian, Chanticleer Shadow. Middleweight winner was the Arabian, Traverston Batique, owned and ridden by Susan Winmill of Terra Cotta.

OCTRA also congratulates two young riders, Lee Hutten and Emma Webb, who represented Canada in the 75 mile endurance event at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships in Lexington, Kentucky in July. A big THANK YOU to the OEF for paying the entry fees for these young athletes.

Endurance riders geared up to compete at the 2011 Provincial Endurance Championships held in Mountain Grove on the September long weekend. _

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905 884 8799

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CERTIFIED EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPIST SERVING YORK REGION SPORTS MASSAGE FOR A HAPPIER HORSE www.horse.on.ca | 63

Breed & Discipline Updates Ontario Reining Horse Association 2011 Season Highlights

Dany Tremblay and Sweetmajor Valentine - Futurity Open Champions at Quarterama

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Photo by Dieter Wahr

by Carol Ivey

The Ontario Reining Horse Association had a fantastic 2011 show season that included a mix of traditional and new competitions. Here are some of the season highlights.

The Fletchers Canadian Reining Classic held at the end of July was a fabulous show, following on the heels of several successful shows earlier this season. The Fletcher family had a whole slate of fun planned that began with Friday night’s “Get Acquainted with Reining” class for new riders, the “Outlaw Rookie” class and the perennial favourite a “Freestyle and Funstyle” class on Saturday evening. Saturday also featured a lead line and walk/jog class for the little ones, which is always very entertaining.

The Fletcher family always host great shows that are tremendous fun, and as always, everyone was well fed! Competitors were treated to complimentary pizza on Friday evening and a beef dinner on Saturday night. All in all it was a great event!

A new show on the calendar this year, “Quarterama”, took place mid August and was hosted by Ken and Dana Van Alstine and Alan and Linda Barnes. They did a fabulous job of putting on a three day "extravaganza," complete with fun classes and complimentary pizza

64 | WHOA! Fall 2011

and karaoke on the Saturday night (the pizza was great, the karaoke was questionable!)

Highlights from this show include the always popular “ProAm” class that features a non-pro riding the first half of a reining pattern, with an open rider entering the arena to finish the pattern on the same horse. The “Show Me the Money” class, sponsored by Picovs and the Ladies Classic were also big draws. In addition to the fun classes, there was also a very serious Futurity and the Sired Stakes Derby, with our friends from Quebec taking home a significant share of the purse. It was terrific to see so many riders from Quebec join us at this show and we hope to see them at more. A memorable moment during “Quarterama” was Loris Epis score of seventyseven in the Open on Custom Maid To Order, a 4 yr old mare by Custom Crome x Metermaid To Order owned by John and Sharon Fletcher. Neither the ORHA nor Reining Canada keeps stats on scores, but we suspect that this could be a record. It was a very impressive ride.

At the end of August, ORHA riders headed north to Powassan, ON for Knowlton Ridge’s inaugural reining show. While there was a relatively small turnout due to the travel distance for most, those who attended had a great time, with very warm and accommodating hosts doing all they could to ensure everyone enjoyed themselves.

There was heavy media presence and a lot of spectators - horse people and non-equestrians alike - and everyone was very interested in learning more about reining. On Saturday afternoon, several reiners participated in the Funstyle class, which was very much enjoyed by the spectators. The class was won by Bev Sheremeto on Slidun In who ran an impressive and entertaining ride to Steve Earle's Copperhead Road - and they sure looked like real rednecks in their costumes! Knowlton Ridge would like to make its reining show an annual event so hopefully we can get more competitors out next year, to make all their hard work worthwhile. The ORHA thanks the owners and staff of Knowlton Ridge for putting on such a good show.

As we near the end of our show season, I would like to congratulate all our year-end Champions and thank all of the host facilities for making our show season so enjoyable. _

Breed & Discipline Updates Ontario Morgan Horse Championship Classic – An Upbeat Event The Ontario Morgan community joined together over the weekend of July 9-10 to celebrate the wonderfully versatile Morgan Horse at the Ontario Morgan Horse Championship Classic held in Ancaster, ON. Deana Wilson did an amazing job of securing sponsorship money to help with the show’s bottom line! Thank you to our Show Sponsor, Aussie Pet Mobile for its continued support and to our donors: Craig and Tina Collins donated the EC cooler to the winner of the EC Saddle Seat Medal class; Henry Equestrian Plan donated a cooler that was awarded to the high point Working Hunter and Greenhawk donated a cooler that was awarded to the High Point Carriage champion. The winner of the Charity class also won a Greenhawk Cooler donated by Sherri Wilson and winner Amy Munro riding Meldon Hawk chose the Canadian Cancer Society as the charity of her choice.

Friday night was the start of the youth judging and a hot dog party was held at the show chairperson’s RV, thank you Greg Reeves! Thanks to Shawn Baiano for cooking the dogs, it was a nice informal get together.

The Kavanagh family hosted the Margarita party, it began immediately after the show on Saturday, everyone was hot and tired and the cold margaritas hit the spot! Deana Wilson orchestrated the Saturday night exhibitors’

dinner, the room was air-conditioned and the food was good and plentiful.

Thank you to Val Reeson for running the CMHA youth challenge in 2011.

We had 7 entries participate and saw Lauren McGinty take Champion.

Wendy Inch and her grand Morgan gelding Samor’s B-Forevermore performed a dressage demo on Sunday at noon. This boy is big and Wendy did an amazing job directing him to the music.

The following presentations were made: Emily Miller, High Point Youth; Kyla Vendrig, Reserve Hi Pt Youth; Equinox Beau Dandy (owned and driven by Wendy Inch), High Point Carriage; Justice Lieut. Colonel (owned and driven by Ken Pedlar), Reserve Hi Pt Carriage; Northline Rainmaker (owned and ridden by Heather Baiano), High Point Working Hunter; UCM Tecumseh (owned by Mary/Gord Freeman and ridden by Hillary Kirkvleit), Reserve Hi Pt Working Hunter; Cyan Star Trinity was crowned Sire’s Sweepstakes Champion and he is owned by Brian/Nancy Kavanagh.

The 2011 Classic was definitely an exciting and upbeat event and the show committee is hoping this trend will continue into 2012 and beyond.

Thank you to everyone to who participated and we look forward to next year’s Classic. The show results and photos are available online at www.ontariomorgan.on.ca. _

TC Youth in the Spotlight Award Toronto CADORA (TC) Youth is proud to announce Sophie Dean-Potter, age 13, as our second recipient of the TC Youth in the Spotlight Award, sponsored by Equestrian Factory Outlet!

Sophie has been riding and taking lessons since she was five years old.

Both her parents are equine vets so she certainly was on horses much earlier than five and was destined to be rider. Sophie started competing in local schooling shows but soon became interested in eventing and has competed there for the past three years.

Although dressage is a big portion of eventing, it wasn't until the fall of 2010 that Sophie began solely training in dressage - and she has fallen hard.

Sophie has always strived to do her best in everything she does even at her young age. She is dedicated and independent. No help from mom needed here! She loves the challenge dressage gives her and has an appreciation for just how hard these riders work to achieve their goals.

Sophie's current partner is a large pony named Obsidian who is a 16-year-old Welsh Cob cross. Obie is an absolute character! He was an A circuit hunter before Sophie owned him and has a reputation for being quite cheeky. He has taught Sophie so much but has not handed anything over to her. She needs to work for everything they do together. He is known in the barn as the "grump", but we know it's just an act!

Sophie rides five to six days per week and would like to ride eight days a week if only school and family time wouldn't get in the way!

Sophie is training with her coach Karin Davis twice a week and still takes lessons with her eventing coach, Kirstie Freitag, weekly to keep up with her jumping.

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In spite of all her time spent in the barn Sophie remains a top student and plans to go on to have a career working with animals, big and small.

Due to the busy nature of her parent’s jobs, Sophie tries hard to have all of her school work completed before her parents are finished work and ready to take her to the barn.

Sophie takes her riding very seriously and constantly strives to better herself. After watching things like the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, World Equestrian Games, Rolex and the Olympics, Sophie feels inspired to reach for the stars. She knows her partnership with Obie won't last forever but right now she can't imagine riding anyone else and is completely caught up in the moment with her best friend.

Sophie and Obie had a successful showing at the July 2011 Palgrave Dressage Festival, earning two first place ribbons in the FEI Pony division. In acknowledgment of receiving this award Sophie will be given a gift certificate and a beautiful jacket from Equestrian Factory Outlet! Congratulations Sophie!

The TC Youth in the Spotlight award has been developed to honor deser ving youth for their outstanding contribution to the dressage communit y through volunteer work , their own accomplishments and successes and overall exceptional attitude. For more information, including application forms for this award, please visit www.torontocadora.com *Par ts of Sophie’s biography contributed by family friend Jennifer Lorimer. _ Photo credit: Sue Pallotta

by Andrea Wetzel

www.horse.on.ca | 65

Breed & Discipline Updates Tri-County Carriage Association 2011 Highlights

by Dr. Carl R. McNicoll The Tri-County Carriage Association (TCCA) had a successful 2011 season and is pleased to highlight the successful events held throughout the year.

After a long winter, Tri-County Carriage Association (TCCA) members came out in full force for the first event of the season: a free clinic hosted at Orchard Park Farm in Carlisle. Experienced members gave demonstrations on everything including safety, harness, hitching, and proper use of many types of carriages. This was such a wellattended event that it will be hosted again next year.

On May 28th we hosted a show at the Rockton Fairgrounds. Many new elements were added to the show program with the focus on attracting junior drivers. By adding fun carriage games, this allowed children an opportunity to ride in a carriage.

Not only did they have the thrill of the carriage ride, they also learned the names of harness and carriage parts as well as safety.

Members driving everything from miniature horses up to a four-pony hitch were on site on August 21st to delight patrons of Westfield Heritage Village. Imagine seeing residents in authentic period attire while driving through a pioneer village with the local blacksmith out practicing his craft!

The fall show was held at Valen’s Conservation Area on September 18th. This show offered many new elements to challenge the experienced whips, but also welcomed new members who came out to show their horses. The public was welcomed to picnic and enjoy the romance of watching beautiful carriages & horses.

The Tri-County Carriage Association is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of carriage driving. We promote the sport from beginner through to the higher competitive levels. Our Mission is to ensure safe and happy carriage driving in a family oriented format.

For further information about the club you can check out our website at http://66.49.173.199/Drive%20Ontario/TCCAHome.htm. _

h The youngest TCCA competitor, Kilby Brunner-deForest

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TCCA competitor, Jackie Shute

204 Main Street N, Powassan (located between Huntsville and North Bay) (705) 724-1313 knowltonridgeequestrian.com / info@knowltonridgeequestrian.com

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Equine Guelph Research Update

Fall 2011

helping horses for life

Genomic Road Map to Rhodococcus

Opens New Expressway to Vaccine Development Imagine a three decade journey ― a quest for an insidious bacterium possessing elusive qualities equivalent to that of the Holy Grail.

Dr. John Prescott, University of Guelph Professor and Chair of the OVC Department of Pathobiology, has been unwavering in staying the course on his quest to find a vaccine to combat the deadly Rhodococcus bacterium.

Rhodococcus (R. equi) is no bug on the windshield that can be easily wiped off. Once this air-borne organism leaves Point A (soil and manure) to travel to Point B (the lungs of a young foal) it hides in the very macrophages that should normally seek out and destroy invading bacteria. The advent of genomic research has opened up a super highway full of new information. Since the recent mapping of the R. equi genome (published 2010), the destination for a vaccine is not far away.

The need for a vaccine is great. R. equi can stow away inside a young foal undetected for months. By the time symptoms of panting and coughing first appear (usually at the same time horse owners are busily bringing in their hay), the only course of action is the expensive and time-consuming administration of antibiotics.

Dr. Prescott and his team are collaborating internationally to tackle this global disease.

Prescott’s former M.Sc. student, Iain MacArthur, is also committed to seeing this epic journey through and works closely with Prescott online using Skype. MacArthur is currently working on his doctorate at the University of Edinburgh and runs tests using

INSIDE

micro-arrays. This entails printing every Rhodococcus gene onto a slide and looking at their expressions under different conditions.

MacArthur explains the advantages of having the blueprint for the R. equi genome, “Instead of hunting around a cave with a tiny flashlight ― we can now switch the lights on, view all contents and see how the genetic material relates.”

“This level of understanding would have been considered almost science fiction just a few years ago; it is incredible what we can do with this new genomic technology,” exclaims Prescott. The advances in research, since 2003, when the human genome project mapped out all the sequence of DNA in the body, have been truly incredible. When looking at all 5,000 genes in the R. equi sequence, one is now able to assign a function to each – a task which simply was not possible before mapping the R. equi genome. The high beams are on and researchers are able to see all the genes that are switched on – the complete blueprint. They now know what makes this organism a pathogen, what it needs to live and how it works. Prescott and MacArthur are isolating and targeting the most switched on and linked genes to develop a weakened form of the live virulent which could then be orally administered as a vaccine.

So the million dollar question breeders want to know regarding the road to a Rhodococcus vaccine ― “Are we there yet?” Not far now!

-By: Jackie Bellamy

Volume 8, Number 2

3-D Helping Research Jump Forward...........3 Acclaimed Racing Surfaces Paper................4 Regeneration for the Nations .....................7 Equine Guelph Tools for Horse Owners ........8

R.equi loves hot dusty environments and lurks in soil and manure.

Early warning signs for R. Equi: · coughing or panting · young foal may go off feed or stop suckling Preventative measures: · avoid sandy environments · don't overcrowd paddocks

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2010 RESEARCH PROJECT UPDATE

Great Strides Toward Detecting EPO Use In the thick of her research, Dr. Dorothee Bienzle has made progress in the search for an adequate blood test to eliminate the use of erythropoietin (EPO). Preliminary testing suggests that the concept of a “blood passport” may be a viable way to identify the use of the drug before horses are exposed to the hazards of repeated EPO injections.

Conscientious horse owners would never put their animals at risk for stroke, heart attack or death. However, improper use of EPO can cause all the aforementioned.

The short-term gain of increasing red blood cell production, and therefore oxygen carrying capacity and athletic ability, is not worth the risk of the most common side effect. Giving EPO to a horse may result in too many red blood cells, which will make the circulating blood sludge-like and, in turn, causes obstruction of small blood vessels and strokes. Another potential side effect of repeatedly giving EPO to horses is suppression of the horse’s own EPO production, which will result in irreversible anemia.

Under current Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) rules, a horse testing positive for EPO is suspended for 90 days.

Also, the trainer for a first offence is subject to a minimum ten year suspension and a $40,000 fine. However, it is often difficult to directly detect EPO use at the racetrack because the drug remains in the circulation system only briefly.

Dr. Bienzle’s research to combat the problem of blood doping is gaining ground by looking at the possibilities of monitoring hemoglobin concentrations as a way of measuring the effect of EPO use. Research is now going this route because unlike in humans, where abuse of the drug may be detected by measuring young red blood cells produced in the bone marrow (reticulocytes), horses do not release many reticulocytes into blood. Hemoglobin levels, on the other hand, go up in a predictable manner when EPO has been administered. Knowing the “normal” hemoglobin concentrations in racing horses may allow setting permissible limits for hemoglobin concentration in racing. Preliminary data suggests that hemoglobin concentration is not gender specific, but varies between

Photo by: Jackie Bellamy Dr Bienzle’s research to combat the problem of blood doping is gaining ground by looking at the possibilities of monitoring hemoglobin concentrations as a way of measuring the effect of EPO use.

thoroughbred, quarter horse and standardbred breeds. Data analysis is expected to be complete this fall to determine specific values for each breed.

With over 60 types of EPO available on the market it is difficult to accurately measure each drug variant. Measuring the effects of the drug on allowable hemoglobin concentration specifications should prove valuable in the battle against blood doping.

"We want fair racing and a clean horse racing business," says Bienzle. “Illegal drug use is unsustainable and in the long run will bring down the entire racing industry.”

Dr. Bruce Duncan, ORC, Official Veterinary Supervisor, states, “This research is important because in any athletic endeavor

(human or equine) some individuals will always search for an edge and various forms of blood doping are one of those edges. It behooves us to research new techniques for detecting such illegal activities to keep a level playing field for the owners and to uphold the health and welfare of the horse as paramount.

The ORC, with monies garnered from a betting levy, helps fund Equine Guelph research projects, thus benefiting the whole industry.”

Research funding has been provided by Equine Guelph, the Ontario Racing Commission and the Canada Research Chairs program.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

W

elcome to another bi-annual report of ground-breaking research funded by partners, sponsors and a growing number of donors to Equine Guelph’s Research Program. This issue brings you news of a long standing battle with R. equi, progress in the fight against doping, advances in 3-D imaging, a white paper on track surfaces, research on weaning stress and embryo freezing, and ends with an update on a unique approach to stem-cell research. The last page has facts on biosecurity and lameness that are of interest to all horse owners. Enjoy and learn.

Dr. Jeff Thomason, co-chair Research Committee

2 Equine Guelph 68 | WHOA! Fall 2011

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

3-D Helping Research Jump Forward You have seen the marvels of 3-D cinema whether it was Thor’s hammer hurling toward you or maybe it was Superman Returns at the IMAX. Ultra sound technology has also developed 3-D capabilities and it is evolving faster than a speeding bullet and with more accuracy than a CAT scan.

What this means for researchers is a more detailed picture when making diagnosis and an accurate, simple way to track the results of treatment modalities ― potentially without using a more invasive biopsy.

With a recent donation from the Equine Foundation of Canada, University of Guelph researcher, Dr. Heather Chalmers, is able to add a new dimension to her research focusing on early screening of roaring and this may lead to earlier treatment. Roaring, or laryngeal paralysis, is a very common disease which can affect any breed or discipline of horse. This progressive disease results in the inability to open the upper airway during exercise which limits performance and actually leads to a roaring sound. Owners who hear a gurgling sound or an increase in noise when the horse is breathing are encouraged to seek veterinary advice.

The goal of Chalmers’ research is to provide horse owners with a reliable, easy, readily available and inexpensive way to screen horses for roaring prior to clinical signs of the disease. This allows horse owners or a potential horse purchaser to plan for their horses career, determining potential or limiting factors. Chalmers was very excited about the donation of new equipment this past summer saying, “When it comes to ultrasound; 3-D allows us to look at the tissues in greater detail to get a more accurate assessment of the size and exact location of abnormalities and to monitor them accurately over time.”

Assessing the size of the upper airway muscles helps researchers understand more about their function and disease status. Chalmers explains, “We know from our own experience working out in the gym, a muscle that gets bigger

Photo by: Amanda Hathaway “The new 3-D ultrasound unit can also be used to monitor and diagnose tendon injuries as shown in this image.”

is stronger and more functional. After interventions, the ultra sound will be able to keep track of changes to see if the smaller diseased muscle has responded to treatment by increasing in size.”

The next step in Chalmers’ research is to solidify the long suspected link between what is seen on the ultrasound screen and what can be found under the microscope if a biopsy were performed. It is important to fully establish: 1) How early disease can be detected in horses? 2) How accurately it can

be done? 3) The rate at which the disease progresses once detected? 3-D ultrasound is helping researchers understand all three of these questions.

Research funding has been provided by Equine Guelph, American College of Veterinary Radiology, Medel Austria, Robarts Imaging Institute at the University of Western Ontario and The Equine Foundation of Canada.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

We Need Your HELP to ‘HELP Horses for Life’ Equine Guelph has changed its fundraising efforts in order to be more efficient with our administrative costs. The distribution of our donation forms exclusively via our spring and fall newsletter has proven successful and we will continue to use this new costeffective method of appeal.

“Your donation to Equine Guelph helps fund groundbreaking work that is making a significant difference in the lives of our horses. We truly appreciate your support,” Gayle Ecker, director, Equine Guelph.

For donations by phone, please contact: 1-519-824-4120 ext.54431. Donations to Equine Guelph can also be made online or by mail using credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or cheque. Please make cheques payable to University of Guelph/Equine Guelph. An official tax receipt will be sent for donations (online donations at www.EquineGuelph.ca will receive an immediate e-receipt).

There are many different ways to give: cash gifts, planned giving, gifts-in-kind, hosting a fundraiser, or volunteering your time. Equine Guelph also offers a tribute program, Hoofprints, to honour deceased horses or people. Please visit our new streamlined donations page for more information and learn how your donations will help horses: www.EquineGuelph.ca

Equine Guelph 3 www.horse.on.ca | 69

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Racing Surfaces Internationally Acclaim A number of factors affect the performance of a racing or training surface according to the 34-page “Racing Surfaces White Paper” published in June of this year. This international publication is a survey of current understanding on ways to enhance track safety, and is co-authored by an esteemed panel including: Dr. Mick Peterson (University of Maine), Dr. Jeffrey Thomason (University of Guelph), Dr. Lars Roepstorff (Swedish University of Agricultural Science), Dr. C. Wayne McIlwraith (Colorado State University) and Christie Mahaffey-MPhil (University of Maine). Although there is still much research to be done since the formation of the Racing Surfaces Committee at the inaugural Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit in 2006, this publication will benefit trainers, track superintendants and any person in charge of riding surfaces. Details of proper maintenance of surfaces and training guidelines, based on the knowledge gained from the researchers’ findings thus far are now available for download at:

Climate and maintenance are two of the many factors analyzed by the researchers when investigating for the best possible training surface conditions to enhance safety for the horse and rider. The Racing Surfaces White Paper publication will have future applications helping in the design of tracks in terms of banking and cushioning properties for track surfaces in racing and training. U of G co-author, Dr. Jeff Thomason notes, “Horse industry leaders interested in creating an optimum surface to help minimize injuries in the limbs of horses will be interested in following this research.”

Thomason is pleased to be a part of this White Paper publication. It is the most comprehensive scientific body of research on racetracks to date, yet it is just scratching the surface. New questions have been cultivated requiring further investigation. Thomason will continue to be involved in this collaborative research with targeted studies on the effect of racetrack characteristics on the horse-hoof-track interaction.

With so many variables in play, the next steps in research are always short, specific experiments with a narrow focus (e.g., the effect of different height toe grabs or different shoes on the same surface). “It is only by meticulously piecing together the answers of each precise question that you begin to see the big picture,” says Thomason.

Studying the influences of forces and loads and the mechanics of loading on the hoof itself is an integral part of Thomason’s research.

One method used to measure these forces is by gluing lightweight sensors to a horse’s hooves before it goes out to the training track.

These sensors have been used to record two kinds of data: strain and shock.

With so many track surface options (synthetic, dirt or turf), Thomason is often asked which is the best option. The majority of evidence at present suggests the consistency of the surface is more important than the material of which it is made. A well-maintained all-weather track is desirable. The track should be consistent around its entire circumference. Three questions requiring further research are: 1) What is the range of hardness or softness that is not dangerous to the horse?

2) How well does water need to run off a track? 3) Do track surfaces need to have different properties for impact as opposed to sliding?

4 Equine Guelph 70 | WHOA! Fall 2011

Photo by: Dr. Jeff Thomason

www.grayson-jockeyclub.org/resources/White_Paper_final.pdf

These sensors have been used to record two kinds of data: strain and shock.

Harder, compact track surfaces increase the forces on the horse’s leg at rac

Research proves good maintenance is an extremely important component for providing consistency and improving safety. Of course, the track has to be well constructed from the start. Regular maintenance includes light harrowing between races to level the hoof prints left on the top layer. Deeper harrowing as required provides a cushion at the top of the surface. One superintendant reported a 30 - 40% reduction in catastrophic fractures at his track after attending a meeting of superintendants in North America and adopting the consistency maintenance program outlined in the White Paper.

Climate also plays a vital and complicated role in determining maintenance.

Thomason reminisces, “Where I grew up in England, the climate consisted of ample rain and you heard about the going being sloppy more often than firm or good. This would be a measure of how slippery or firm the track was.”

Conversely, California has problems with the surface becoming too dry.

Artificial surfaces were designed to give surface consistency. This has not yet

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

med m Publication Says Consistency is Key then to the harder surface material beneath the hoof. This dynamic transfer of the weight of the horse to the hoof is the source of the acceleration, resulting in peak loads which may approach 2.5 times the bodyweight of the horse. The hardness of the track influences how quickly the foot is decelerated and then the stiffness of the track when the load is being applied. This rate of deceleration controls the strain which is transferred to the leg and results in higher peak loads for stiffer surfaces. Repeated loading to the bone can cause micro fractures and catastrophic fractures (Radin et al. 1972).”

Horses and their owners stand to benefit from this research when new information is discovered regarding how to reduce the factors causing injuries on limbs.

Dr. Jeff Thomason’s research has been funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Equine Guelph and the Grayson Jockey Club.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

What’s the value of research to your horse?

Photo by: David Landry

cing c speeds.

been achieved. Even artificial surfaces change their properties throughout the day when the sun comes into effect. In the morning, the surface becomes softer and records indicate the racing times slow down throughout the day showing a very local effect of sunny climate on the track.

Thomason spends much of his time understanding the complexity of how the hoof interacts with the ground ― from absorbing the shock of impact to the abrasion of grinding into the surface to how the weight of the horse is distributed.

One excerpt of the Whitepaper states, As the soil or top layer of the turf compacts, it becomes stiffer and more resistant to further compaction, bringing the hoof to a stop (Thomason and Peterson, 2008). Once the motion of the hoof has been slowed or has stopped, the weight of the horse is dynamically transferred to the hoof and

We have always believed in the value of our research program, and from our survey results we know the industry does as well. In our spring 2011 survey of the equine industry in Ontario, 100% of respondents told us that research is important and 90% believe it is necessary for a viable horse industry. This is loud and unequivocal support for the research activities we promote and fund. The message concerning who should fund research gave food for thought ― the answers ranked top to bottom were: federal government (agriculture), corporation, provincial government (OMAFRA), racing industry, national associations, provincial associations, wealthy individual donors, smaller individual donations. Given the current fiscal constraints, it is unreasonable to expect the government or its agencies to bear most of the funding burden. The Ontario Equestrian Federation has heard this message and responded with a generous $10,000 donation this year. Building partnerships among industry associations, commercial ventures, private organizations and donors, and government to fund equine research is a priority. For example, OMAFRA encourages matching funds, and Dr. Katrina Merkies (equine researcher from Kemptville campus) successfully leveraged an industry donation with OMAFRA funding in this year’s research competition. In my visits with government representatives and board meetings of industry associations in the next year, I will be exploring ways in which to optimize the use of research funds, and effective ways to increase the amounts available. But even small donations make a difference, so please don’t hesitate to play an important role in improving the health of the industry and the horses on which it is founded.

-By: Dr. Jeff Thomason Co-chair, Equine Guelph Research Committee

Equine Guelph 5 www.horse.on.ca | 71

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

New Research Project Examines Ways to Reduce Weaning Stress Exciting new research will begin looking at alternative weaning methods in foals. Dr. Katrina Merkies (Kemptville, APS) and Dr. Derek Haley (U of G Population Medicine) are researching the use of a two-stage weaning strategy already showing positive results in reducing stress and increasing average daily gain in cattle. In Stage one, a physical barrier is used to deny access to the udder while all other forms of social interaction are permitted. In Stage 2, the dam and offspring are physically separated. The researchers will be looking for empirical evidence that alternative weaning strategies may reduce stress which may also be linked to increased risk of disease and subsequent undesirable stereotypic behaviour in horses. This in turn could optimize welfare promoting healthy growth and improved performance and reproduction, encouraging breeders to provide an optimal environment for their broodstock.

Funding for this research project is provided by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

new

Advanced Equine Course Series:

New advanced courses have been created as an opportunity to delve even further into the subject matter outlined in Equine Guelph’s award-winning online equine programs. Next course offerings run January 9th – April 1st, 2012 (early bird deadline Dec. 9th 2011) To view all 18 course offerings and check prerequisites, go to: www.EquineStudiesDiploma.com • Advanced Equine Nutrition Health through Nutrition: January 2012 • Advanced Equine Anatomy: May 2012 • Advanced Equine Behaviour: September 2012

Photo by: Barbara Sheridan New behaviour study is sure to be a hot topic for horse breeders.

2010 Research Project update

Project Preservation Embryo

University of Guelph researcher, Tracey Chenier and her colleagues, continue to benefit from the assistance of internationally renowned cryobiologist, Dr.Stanley Leibo, looking for effective ways to freeze embryos which could lead to worldwide commercial viability of embryo transfer in the horse. Currently, almost all embryo transfers are a costly process involving fresh transfer on the same day.

Chenier explains, “The ability to freeze and store horse embryos not only would allow for a more convenient transfer time, but would also prove more cost effective.” Researchers were able to study the effects of cryoprotectant on 10 embryos last year followed by 18 this spring. The challenge which is unique to horse embryos, is the formation of a glycoprotein-based capsule (which forms approximately seven days after ovulation) which surrounds the embryo and prevents the freezing chemical from entering the tissue. Chenier states, “We have confirmed that with 9 – 11 day old embryos, very little cryoprotectant can enter into the embryo and very little water can make it out. Water forms ice crystals when you freeze it and this can cause damage to the embryo.” Chenier and Leibo will be collecting 40 more embryos to continue working on solving this dilemma.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

6 Equine Guelph 72 | WHOA! Fall 2011

EQUINE RESEARCH UPDATE

Regeneration for the Nations Canadian-Danish Research Globally Acclaimed Canadians and Danes were the first to source equine umbilical cord blood for regenerative medicine. The anticipation over the exciting applications of this research were clearly indicated by the massive number of downloads which occurred within two weeks of the first report published back in 2007 ― a whopping 3500+! “The long term goal is to find new treatment modalities for diseases and conditions where there currently are no good treatment modalities,” says Dr. Thomas Koch, who researches joint cartilage repair at Aarhus University, Denmark and the University of Guelph. Koch expands on one reason stem cell research is such a hot topic by explaining the concept of a reduced burden on the healthcare system, which could potentially result from curing incurable degenerative diseases.

The successful isolation of cells from equine umbilical cord blood for regenerative purposes has put the U of G on the map as a leader in equine stem cell research. In his latest research, Koch is able to isolate mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for potential cartilage repair using a very simple, non-invasive procedure. Umbilical cord blood is obtained at the time of foaling by clamping the cord and collecting the blood into a transfusion bag. Once at the lab, this blood is then put into a plastic container and then the cells that “love plastic” show their potential for regenerative research. Any unwanted floating cells are easily removed from the container because the desirable MSC cells actually adhere to the plastic and multiply! Koch can then create cartilage from these cells in the lab.

Studies for maintaining cells at the injury site are ongoing. The complication is integrating cell-repaired cartilage with the underlying bone and adjacent normal healthy cartilage. Koch is investigating sophisticated matrices and scaffolds as well as a technique known as mosaic arthroplasty. In mosaic arthroplasty, a number of plugs consisting of both cartilage and bone are placed in the cartilage and bone defect in a cobblestone pattern, hence the name mosaic. Pioneered by Dr. Mark Hurtig from the University of Guelph, this option, although technically difficult, may allow a better integration between cartilage and bone.

Using umbilical cord blood cells to make bone cells and cartilage cells has earned Koch’s research international recognition. The application for bone healing in fracture and cartilage repair is promising. Now researchers are working on better ways of differentiating undifferentiated cells into cartilage cells so there will be enough cells for therapy.

Dr. Thomas Koch is employed by the Orthopedic Research Lab at Aarhus University in Denmark and funded by the Danish Research Agency for Technology, Production and Innovation. Additional operating funds are provided through: Grayson Research Foundation of Lexington, Kentucky; BioE Inc. of Minnesota, USA; SentrX Animal Care Inc. of Utah, USA; Morris Animal Foundation, USA and the Equine Guelph Research Fund.

-By: Jackie Bellamy

Photo by: Studio 404

Cells that “love plastic” show great potential in regenerative research Get the free mobile app at: http://gettag.mobi Video by: Norse Ridge Farms Limited, King City, ON. This video can also be viewed under research updates at: http://www.equineguelph.ca/research/index.php

Online Learning Community Coming Soon!

Equine Guelph is developing an online learning community for youth.

New interactive learning tools will stress safety, health, welfare and careers in the horse industry. Some of the topics youth will be able to discover online include: caring for horses and functional anatomy.

Gayle Ecker, director of Equine Guelph, thanks Grand River Agricultural Society for enabling this program to get off the ground, “This is the start of a long term program that we believe will have a major impact on youth who are interested in educational opportunities

and a future working with horses.” Thanks to $15,000 donations from both Grand River Agricultural Society and Russ Willoughby, friend of Equine Guelph, the launch date for this exciting new program is near. Stay tuned to www.EquineGuelph.ca for more details.

Equine Guelph 7 www.horse.on.ca | 73

UPDATE ON EQUINE GUELPH’S WORK

Photo by: Dr. Josie Traub-Dargatz

What’s Your Biosecurity Risk? Is Your Horse Lame?

Biosecurity is a major concern to all horse facilities – small and large.

You know how to reduce your chances of catching a cold, but how do you rate in keeping your horses safe from infectious disease?

See how you score. Calculate your horse farm’s risks with the Equine Biosecurity Risk Calculator, an educational resource of Equine Guelph (University of Guelph) developed in collaboration with Colorado State University and sponsored by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation and VÊtoquinol Canada Inc.

Equine caregivers know all too well, identifying and treating lameness in horses can be a frustrating and expensive process.

Equine Guelph’s new Lameness Lab online tool, sponsored by Pfizer Equine Division, will help you learn about lameness through interactive activities.

Discover: the causes, factors contributing to increased risk, the body tissues involved and how to tell if your horse is lame. Test yourself with the Lameness Video Challenge and find out how a veterinarian detects lameness. “We think that a visual approach to lameness will greatly help horse caregivers better understand the basics of lameness and how to recognize the signs or symptoms in their horse,� says Dr. Cathy Rae, equine Technical Services veterinarian for Pfizer Animal Health. “This understanding should help them detect lameness earlier as well as guide them in knowing when to call their veterinarian.�

To check out this tool, go to Equine Guelph’s ‘Toolbox’ at www.EquineGuelph.ca and click on Lameness Lab.

The online resource helps horse owners calculate the biosecurity risk on their farms and also provides educational feedback on ways to decrease the risk of infectious disease. So, take 10 minutes and answer 42 questions about your farm at www.EquineGuelph.ca (click on Biosecurity Calculator to calculate your biosecurity risk). “The online resource will give horse owners a great starting point by revealing the potential risk currently present on their own farm and the most practical ways to decrease those risks,� says Dr. Wayne McIlwraith, AAEP Foundation Chairman. “AAEP Foundation is pleased to collaborate with our partners in Canada and the U.S. to provide this valuable tool for horse owners in North America.�

Equine Guelph thanks its partners for sponsoring the Equine Biosecurity Risk Calculator.

EVENTS Mark your calendar!

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (EquiMania!)

November 04 - 13, 2011

Anyone wishing to excerpt Equine Guelph should contact: Jackie Bellamy, ext 54205 horses@uoguelph.ca

Equine Guelph, University of Guelph 50 McGilvray St., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 74 | WHOA! Fall 2011

equine guelph

tel: 519.824.4120 ext. 54205, fax: 519.767.1081 horses@uoguelph.ca • www.EquineGuelph.ca

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