DIGITAL ISSUE 165C | 2024
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE
Hello! It’s great to have you with us for another edition of your favourite horse magazine! We’re very excited this month to be attending Horse of the Year 2024 at Kyalami Park Club, and we can’t wait to share all the action with you. Showing is a not-so-secret passion of some of our team members, and we’ve managed to convince a couple of our die-hard showjumpers that they must also give it a go, so stay tuned for their exploits in the general breed classes! Other plans for our team this month include attending the 334 Rider’s Grand Prix as well as the Champagne Tour at Eaton Farm, so prepare for lots of show content coming your way on socials and in the magazine next month. This month, we hear some fabulous horsey stories from down in KZN, catch up with Jodi Ambrose on her move to Jo’burg and take a look at the Thoroughbred classes at HOY.
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We also have our regular content, with this month looking at safe paddock fencing, choosing the right girth and understanding the breeding process. In essence, there should be something here for everyone. We hope to see some of you out and about at the Jo’burg shows this month and will catch up with the rest of you later in the year as we tour the country, visiting horses (and their riders) in the other provinces. 2024 promises to be a year of travelling adventure for the team, and we look forward to getting to know more of you in the process. Stay tuned on our social media, and we’ll see you back here next month.
Lizzie and xxx the HQ team Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor
Designer | Mauray Wolff
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DIGITAL ISSUE 165C | 2024
CONTENTS Warhorse Lorelock Conquerer aka Galindez
The perfect husband Led me to the perfect horse
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Jodi Ambrose
B2U Saddle Fitters
And her move to Jo’burg
Five signs your saddle needs fitting
HQPro
The language of equine discomfort
Confirmed Longines GCL and GCT dates
Recognising signs of pain in your horse
Meet ‘It’s A Kinda Magic!’
Securing serenity
Owned by Caitlin Anderson
A guide to safe fencing for horses
Horse of the Year Show 2024
AskHQ
The OTTB’s are our feature favourites this year!
Your equestrian questions answered
So, you want to breed a foal?
Products We Love
The what, when, who and how of it all…
Shopping fun
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HORSE AND RIDER
INTERVIEW AND PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY WHITE MEDIA
WARHORSE LORELOCK CONQUERER AKA GALINDEZ
HQ: Tell us a bit about your background in horses. TP: My name is Tacita Anne Peters, and horses are in my blood. Horses are a passion that has always been within me since I was a little girl. My father, legendary horse-racing commentator Craig 'Eagle-Eye' Peters, introduced me to these majestic creatures at a young age through his love for them, and I have been in awe of horses ever since.
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I started riding at the age of six or seven years old; at the time, I was having ballet lessons, which, to this day, I still believe contributed to a good posture, elegance and focus, which has served me well within my equestrian endeavours. I remember I wanted to start having horse riding lessons, and my mom, Lorraine, agreed that if I still wished to do so when I was ten years old, I could move away from my ballet and take up my passion.
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Well, needless to say, on my tenth birthday, I hung up my ballet shoes for a pair of riding boots. I got my first pony at the age of eleven years old. He was an Arabian pony called Mount Shar Shar Xenophon, who was from the SPCA horse rescue. He was a beautiful silver grey with a free spirit, full of fire and fun. As a child, I remember riding him bareback, exploring the sugar cane fields, stopping for picnics
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with my friends and having the most wonderful adventures together. We started competing in Pony Club very successfully (when Xeni was in the mood) and sometimes, not so successfully, such as the time at the Pietermaritzburg Pony Show, held at the Royal Show Grounds, where Xeni slipped during the showjumping course; I fell off and he proceeded to jump some of the track by himself in fine fashion, giving the crowds great entertainment!
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I then moved into my Junior career and had the privilege of owning the most handsome, kind and willing Thoroughbred horse called Sweet n' Free, aka Shub ('good-looking' in Lebanese). He taught me confidence, determination, and strong will, and he gave me unconditional love. Shub and I moved up into the higher grades of showjumping, equitation and dressage, competing very successfully across all disciplines. He was an absolute gem of a horse that radiated with ring presence. That horse still has my heart; every time I think of him, I know he was the horse that gave everything to me and taught me so many life lessons that have moulded me into who I am as a rider.
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Equitation has always been a passion of mine, and in my junior career, I held the title of Kwa-Zulu Natal Open Equitation Champion twice. I was also selected twice to captain the KZN Equitation Team. One of my proudest moments was having the honour of competing in the prestigious Philip Smith Memorial Cup; it was the experience of a lifetime.
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a tricky horse because he enjoyed jumping at pace, but he was very aware of his surroundings, which could either give us an 'out of this world' round or, especially in his early years, end up with me on the floor. He is happily retired at the age of 21 years, living his best life…still jumping paddock fences. In my adult career, I still own a super Namibian Warmblood called Locarno Just Happy. He is a 15,3hh firecracker who jumps every paddock fence, no matter what height. This included a 1.50m+ electric fence that allowed him to escape into the sugar cane fields, where we chased him on four-wheelers to try to bring him home. I seem to pick them fiery and full of character, which I love. Happy competed up the grades into the Open categories, and gave me great joy. He was a true gentleman in the stable but feisty in the ring. He was
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My passion for the Equitation discipline still continues. I am a Master Judge, which was an achievement, as I was the youngest person to be promoted to this elite panel and level. As a SANEF-qualified coach, I have a passion for coaching and enjoy giving clinics in between balancing my full-time corporate job, my horse-riding, my showjumping, my position as KZN equitation chairperson, as well as my friends and family.
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I am currently competing in the 1.30m grade with my 'war horse', Lorelock Conquerer, aka Galindez. We finished off the 2023 season as the KZN 1.30m Adult Showjumping Champions, which I am exceptionally proud of. I am also very fortunate to have the opportunity to ride and compete a very talented Brandenburg mare, who is beautiful and aptly named 'Brandenburg Cleopatra'. We hold the 2023 KZN 1.10m Adult Showjumping Championship title. HQ: Tell us about your 'war horse' TP: This is my war horse, Lorelock Conquerer. He is a South African Warmblood from the wonderful Lorelock Stud. He is a 10-year-old gelding by Captain Zelano out of Lorelock Bernadette and was born on the 24th of October 2013. He is beautifully bred with a big match
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temperament in the ring, massive power and scope, and to top it off, he is a very kind soul. The story of how we came to be is actually quite endearing. It seemed that the stars aligned and pushed us toward each other. My mom, Lorraine, had seen him jump at a show and fell in love with him instantly, being drawn to him by his strong will, majestic presence and that 'X-factor' that can't be explained but is just there. He was not on the market; however, Carol Nurden, a very highly accredited rider, horsewoman, and friend, agreed to let me sit on him and try him out. As soon as he picked up the trot, I just knew that we were meant to be. I will be forever grateful to Carol for allowing Galindez and me to be together.
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His nickname, 'Galindez', speaks to his war horse type of personality. The name is taken from a world-famous boxing champion who was tough, won World Championship titles and was a 'fighter'. Galindez is always full of scars from playing in the paddock and is strong and built like a boxer; hence, his nickname, which my father, Craig, gave rise to and has stuck as it is so fitting. My family is unwavering in their support and enjoyment of this great journey of ours.
lift him up. You can't ask for more in a partner because that is what he is to me; when you go into that showjumping ring, it is all about how much you are willing to give and try for each other, and we will do whatever it takes. This is a testament to how brilliantly Anri and Rita Mare bred him at Lorelock Stud. I am sure that the late, very kind Rita Mare, who was always so supportive of us would be extremely proud of the horse he has become.
I call him my 'war horse' because I feel he could carry me into war, face the toughest challenges, and still have my back. He is an amazing horse; his talent is superb, but what makes him so special to me is his ability to stay calm under pressure and focus on the job at hand. He fights for me when we are in the ring and exudes confidence. He is my teammate, and when I need him, he lifts me up, and when he needs me, I
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HQ: What are your hopes and aspirations for this partnership? TP: 2024 is a very exciting year filled with great opportunities. I have an amazing support system in my family, my friends, AAN Equine and a team that works together to continue growing us as a pair. My brilliant coach, Lauriane Minett and anchor and support, Martin Minett continuously
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coach and guide us towards our goals, with further support and flatwork teachings from Eric Higgs. Our hope for this year is to move up into the 1.35m/1.40m grades of showjumping and be competitive whilst gaining more experience at a national level. Most of all, though, I want to enjoy the journey ahead and all the moments it brings with this magnificent horse.
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HQ: What is your message to your horse? TP: Thank you for being you, for holding steady when I shake or falter, for giving me courage, and for giving your unconditional love to me. Your sheer power is immense, and yet, you are so gentle and kind that I am in awe of your being and humility. I am grateful that I get to share this incredible journey with you - the joy, the challenges. Most of
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all, I am grateful for every day spent together. HQ: If you could give a message to other riders, what would it be? TP: Be kind to your horses and support your fellow competitors. This is a tough sport. Look to be a role model to others, and most of all, remember that these amazing animals deserve respect, kindness and empathy.
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INTERVIEW AND PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY WHITE MEDIA
THE PERFECT HUSBAND LED ME TO THE PERFECT HORSE
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rom our first date, I always knew that I was going to marry Carlo. On our first date, we went to watch the races at Greyville. He took me because he knew I'd never watched them before. Thereafter, we went to a lovely Italian restaurant, and by the end of the evening, I knew he had my heart. That feeling only grew stronger as time passed, and he not only put up with, but also supported my love for horses and this sport. My previous mare became very ill, and no matter
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what time of day, he drove me up to visit her in the hospital (at that point, I lived down in Amanzimtoti, so we would usually only get up to Summerveld after 7pm for visits, and Carlo never complained once). After I lost her to cancer, I swore off riding. I felt defeated and broken, knowing there was nothing more we could have done for her. Needless to say, three months into this I was not a pleasant person to be around. Carlo put his foot down and insisted I start looking for a lease.
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I started leasing a Saratoga mare, and after two years, I moved on to my instructor's two horses (also Saratoga horses). And so, my love for the Saratoga's grew. Fast forward another two and a half years, and we had our annual stable braai. We were all camped out around the braai, and Karin, my instructor, said she thought it might be time I started looking
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for my own horse. I told her I didn't think it would be an option as I'd just started my new job. She then, with a very mischievous smile, said let's just go see what Saratoga have. Carlo didn't argue and just said I could look but not to get my hopes up. So, we phoned Guy Benson and arranged to see some babies the following weekend.
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The following weekend, Karin, a friend, and I got to Saratoga and hopped out of the car. My heart was so excited at the possibility of a horse. Guy showed us two other babies and then the most beautiful little palomino filly named Valerie, three months short of her second birthday. She wasn't the biggest horse around, but oozed personality and looks. I stepped into the stable, and she put her muzzle straight into my hand.
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We decided to pop her in a paddock so I could see her movement, and when I say she floated, I mean it was like her feet didn't even touch the ground. She came trotting up to us after a spectacular show of nimbleness, and I was instantly in love. I got home all excited and told Carlo about the little filly I met and fell in love with. We sat down and chatted and decided that now wasn't the best time to get a horse; I had only just started my new job, and there was still so much uncertainty. Although I was disappointed, I understood.
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I knew Saratoga was posting Valerie's advert the following Tuesday, so I kept checking, eagerly waiting for her to come up. Tuesday came and went, and there was nothing; my heart held hope; maybe I could still put together the last of the funds I needed and get her in a few month's time. On the Wednesday evening, I got home from work, and Carlo asked me to have a seat next to him. He then handed me a sweet card,
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stating how proud of me he was for how hard I'd worked, for everything I'd accomplished, and how he appreciated me. And right at the end of that card, he wrote, "I've also put down the deposit on Valerie; she's yours". My heart danced, tears streaming out so unexpectedly; my inner child crying with all the happiness and hope she'd held. I thought it would be at least another five years before I could have another horse of my own.
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And thus, our little journey began. I got her off the Stud and did a year and a half worth of groundwork. We built up our relationship and got to know one another. I then backed her myself and have slowly started exposing her to various disciplines and showing environments in which she just seems to excel! Carlo has always been on the sidelines cheering us on and doing the husbandly duties of taking photos, lugging tack and grabbing the breakfasts...
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Valley, as I fondly call her, is bold, brave and everything I've always wanted in a horse. I've managed to find both the perfect husband and the perfect horse, and I consider myself the luckiest woman around. Follow Michaela on Instagram: Michaela Marzoppi: michaela_marzoppi_
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HORSE AND RIDER
INTERVIEW: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE PHOTOGRAPHY: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY
JODI AMBROSE AND HER MOVE TO JO'BURG
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t was an interesting end to 2023, with several of South Africa's top riders migrating south to the Midlands seeking greener (literally) pastures. However, one of our top riders decided to swim against the stream. Jodi Ambrose (nee Pieters) has just relocated up to Jo'burg! We decided to have a quick catch-up with Jodi ahead of the start of her 2024 year based 'up north’!
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HQ: Could you tell us a bit about yourself and how you started riding? Jodi: I was born into the industry with both my parents (Willie and Sue) being professional showjumpers and my dad becoming a racehorse trainer. Horses and riding are in my blood and where I feel most comfortable. I grew up on an equestrian property in Drummond, KZN, so I have always had horses around me. I got my first pony at four years old and went on to compete successfully
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in the Children's category of equitation and showjumping before specialising in showjumping from Juniors onwards. My business is a pre-training facility for racehorses, which now operates out of Sun Valley, Midrand. Some of my non-equestrian achievements that I'm most proud of are completing the Comrades Marathon, summiting Kilimanjaro, completing the half Iron Man, and achieving an honours degree in Business Finance.
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HQ: Wow, you've done a lot! And now you have just moved up to Johannesburg, which seems a bit like swimming against the tide with so many people moving to the Midlands! What prompted that move, and how have you found life in Jo'burg so far? Jodi: We were actually expropriated by SANRAL as there is an elevated six-lane highway being built on the border of our old property, so it was time to move. The showjumping circuit, as well as my long term coach Barry Taylor being based in Johannesburg, prompted the choice to move to JHB; I had become quite fed up with always being on the road and having to go away from home to jump at the national
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level shows. Now we have options of shows every weekend and I can have regular coaching with Barry. In terms of business, most of my pre-training clients are Jo'burgbased anyway, so it also made sense on that front. It has been great being up in Jo'burg to compete; in KZN, we would probably have ten open horses in a class at the normal shows, whereas here in Jo'burg, you can have two pools of 60 horses in the 1.30m classes. This means the level of competition is so much higher and you constantly want to up your game. There are also so many more options of venues and shows as well, so I'm excited for the year ahead.
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HQ: You've been a long-time contender for top titles in the upper levels of showjumping here in South Africa; could you share perhaps some of your biggest successes and most memorable moments? Jodi: I've had some very special horses in my jumping career this far. My first Junior horse was a Thoroughbred gelding called Jaunty Gent. We started in 80cm and ended up winning a 1.50m Riders Tour Grand Prix, as well as third
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place in the big 1.50m South African Derby. I've also had good placings in World Cup Qualifiers with both geldings Billy The Kid and King Of Hearts. Capital Rafika D'Or was and is the horse of all my dreams. Together, we won the South African Championships in 2011, won two World Cup Qualifiers, topped the Riders Tour, and won the FEI RSA World Cup Series in 2012. We also placed second in the big Derby – so I still need that win!
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HQ: Do you think one of your current horses could win the big Derby for you? Jodi: I'm not sure. In all honesty, I just haven't taught them the Derby stuff from the lower grades, so we'd have to see. HQ: Who do you have in your string of horses for this year? Jodi: I have a string of four horses: King Of Hearts (Bella Notte x Jus de Pomme) is currently competing in the 1.35m/1.40m level; Callaho Casco Grey (Casparon x Argentinus) is a 10-year-old that jumped in his first 1.50m classes towards the end of last year, and we're hoping to get properly established at that level this
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year; Callaho Con Remo (Con Coriano x Ramiro Z) is a talented 8-year-old that is just starting in the 1.35m level; and Branic Quebekha (Qino d'Eclipse x Jokinal de Bornival) is jumping in the 1.20m classes. I have a fabulous team of sponsors that I have partnered up with this year. I have recently partnered with Subaru Sandton, who are doing a very fun promotion; if a customer uses my name at the Sandton dealership, they get a discount on any new car! Epol, Kuda, and Equestrian House have also all come on board again for the upcoming season. It's a huge honour to have these powerhouse brands behind me and I intend to do them proud this year!
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HQ: You're also involved in the racing scene… Can you tell us more about that? Jodi: My mom established the family business, 'Precentor Place', which I have now taken over. It is a pretraining business where we are essentially the primary school for racehorses. We get them backed once they come in from the sales
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and make sure they are physically and mentally prepared for all that racing entails. We also spell racehorses, which means they come to us for breaks during their racing careers. I love working with the babies, and it funds my showjumping – a happy equation. I got to know horse racing from this angle and fell in love with the industry.
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HQ: Since you have knowledge of both racing and show jumping, do you have any top tips for us on how to pick the right racehorse for a second career in showjumping? Jodi: For a Thoroughbred off-thetrack, I prefer ones that run longer distances - one mile and up - as showjumpers. The reason for this is that they tend to push from behind as opposed to pull from in front, so they make a better type to jump. One of the horses I got off the track recently
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and produced up the grades, Finding Troy, is now jumping successfully in the 1.30m with Jenna Odell, which is lovely to see. The plan is for all our Haraka Syndicate horses to find loving homes and second careers after their racing careers are finished. So, keep an eye out for those! HQ: We wish you all the best up here in Jo'burg and can't wait to see what the year holds for you and your string!
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DID YOU KNOW? Plaits must always lie on the right hand side of the horse’s neck.
My vision is clear. Only the best for the best.” – Jan Tops Full 2024 Global Champions League and Global Champions Tour Season Calendar coming soon… CONFIRMED DATES ARE AS FOLLOWS.
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DOHA
29 February – 2 March
MIAMI BEACH 3 – 6 April
RAMATUELLE SAINT TROPEZ 30 May – 1 June HQ|165A
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CANNES 6 - 8 June
PARIS
21 - 23 June
STOCKHOLM 28 - 30 June 36
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MONACO 4 – 6 July
LONDON
16 - 18 August
VALKENSWAARD 23 - 25 August HQ|165A
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PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY WHITE MEDIA
MEET ‘IT’S A KINDA MAGIC!’ OWNED BY CAITLIN ANDERSON In Caitlin’s own words: “So, his name is actually Adel, pronounced ‘Aar-dil’ but when people see it written they think of the singer! But, as you know, in the horse world there is a lot of superstition around changing a name, so to me and my Johannesburg family and friends he is still Adel. But, when we moved down to Durbs, we decided to use his show name Magic Maestro. The name Maestro came from his Arab sire and Magic came from a Swedish friend who used to call him Magi (magic in Swedish). He's a Christmas baby born on 25/12/2001 and is a Friesian cross Arab.”
Follow Caitlin on Instagram: Caitlin Anderson: @caits00
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TEXT: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE PHOTOGRAPHY: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY
HORSE YEAR SHOW 2024 OF THE
THE OTTB’S ARE OUR FEATURE FAVOURITES THIS YEAR!
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t’s that time of year again when all our showing stars descend on Kyalami Park Club for the annual Horse of the Year Competition. For horse lovers, it’s an event not to be missed as a vast array of breeds and types congregate for all to see. With special displays, Championship Classes and a range of activities for the whole family, if you can be there – you should!
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Last year, we gave you an inside look and a how-to guide to the Warmblood classes. This year we will be looking into the classes offered to a breed that produced some of the most well-known sporthorses of all time, the Thoroughbred! The classes on offer for the Thoroughbreds are similar to those of most other breeds and include Breed Classes (which are performed
in-hand and categorised by age and gender), Working Hunter, Working Riding Horse, and the Riding Horse classes (Show Hack, Show Hunter and Show Riding Horse). An additional special class is hosted for Thoroughbreds that have raced within the last four years, and that is the Racehorse to Show Horse Class. So… for those of you who may not have tried their hand in the show ring, what are the different classes, and how do you decide which to enter your OTTB in?
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FAST FACT KPC and SA Showing organise the Thoroughbred classes, but you do NOT have to be a member of SA Showing to enter the classes, and KPC offers a special reduced temporary membership of R150.00 per competitor!
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01. BREED CLASSES (IN-HAND) These classes are allocated by age, sex and with horses over three years old by height (those up to and including 1.63m in height and those over 1.63m in height). FAST FACT If you want to enter your horse in a class with height restrictions, it will require the horse height certificate section of their passport to be completed by a vet and presented at the show.
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HOW THE CLASSES WORK: • The judges stand in the middle of the arena, and all handlers enter the arena together, leading their horses. • Competitors walk in a large circle/oval, following each other around the arena while the judges observe. • The judges will then hold up the queue or ask the handlers to line up and allow one handler to trot half the arena or the whole arena at a time.
• The horses will then be lined up in order of preference and pulled forward individually for a conformational assessment. • The judges then take a moment to choose their prize winners and then call the horses forward to award prizes. • The winners of each of the Youngstock Classes proceed to a Championship Class (which runs in the same format) in which the Champion and Reserve Champion Thoroughbred Youngstock of the Year will be announced. • First and second place in the mare, stallion and gelding height classes proceed to the Champion Thoroughbred Mare, Stallion and Gelding of the Year Classes, respectively. • The Champion Gelding goes forward to the Supreme Champion Gelding of the Year, while the Champion Mare and Stallion go forward to the Supreme Champion Breed Horse of the Year. • These classes are pre-judged on the Sunday morning, and top qualifiers are to present themselves for the Supreme Champion Awards in the afternoon.
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02. RIDING HORSE CLASSES There are three classes in this category, and all run in a similar format, but each of the classes looks for slightly different things. HOW THE CLASSES WORK: 1. All competitors enter the arena at the same time and form a line following one another. 2. The judges will indicate that the competitors need to trot, canter, change rein and trot and canter on the other rein. 3. The judges will then line the horses up in order of preference. 4. Riders will be called forward to perform an individual test. 5. The top five or six horses will be pulled forward for a ride by the judge.
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6. Riders will also be required to dismount and remove the saddle so that a conformation examination of each horse can be performed. 7. The winners are then called forward for the presentation of prizes. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHAT CLASS TO ENTER YOUR HORSE IN? Show Hack If your horse is very beautiful, elegant and well-behaved, this is the class for you! Show Riding If your horse is goodlooking and the kind of horse that you would love to take out for a ride in the country, this is the class for you! Show Hunter Would you like to go hunting on your horse? Does he have a good gallop, and is he sturdy and strong? Then this is the class you should enter!
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03. WORKING RIDING AND WORKING HUNTER For those of you who have an affinity with events that include obstacles and jumps, then these are the ones for you! FAST FACT The Working Riding and Working Hunter Classes can include a ride by the judge, but this is usually limited to the top five to six contenders due to time constraints.
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Working Riding Classes are suited to horses that are not easily frightened and willing to give most things a go. The working riding class is most like what some might think of as a ‘utility’ class. Generally, all competitors enter the arena at the same time and walk around. They are then lined up and called forward to complete a course of obstacles one at a time. This course can include trotting poles, bending poles, a jump,
a lane, and a rein back and can require the rider to pick up an item such as a basket and carry it before returning it to its original position. The horse and rider combinations are given a score out of ten for each obstacle as well as a mark out of ten for general style and manners. Working Hunter Classes are likely the classes that would appeal most to riders with a passion for showjumping. Before the class begins, the riders will walk a course of rustic jumps. The riders then jump the course individually and, after completing the course, have a gallop. Once all riders have completed the course, the top few combinations will be called in for a ride by the judge and a conformational assessment before prizes are awarded. The type of horse suited to this class is one that is brave and canters freely and rhythmically from one jump to another.
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04. RACEHORSE TO SHOW HORSE This class was incorporated to encourage riders to give racehorses second careers, with the hope that more people would realise that there is another life for racehorses who come off the track.
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It is a Show Riding Class (that is run in the same manner as the other show riding classes, but without a ride by the judge). It is open to all ex-racehorses who have been retired from racing for four years or less. Horses must be shown under their registered racing names, and the class is judged based on schooling, manners, and conformation. With South Africa’s rich history of Thoroughbreds competing at the top levels of the Olympic disciplines, it is wonderful to see that Thoroughbreds are given an opportunity to excel in a second career.
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DID YOU KNOW? Jessica George and her Thoroughbred Wrap Up are one of the three South African combinations contending for the single individual eventing spot at the Olympics.
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THE ADMIN COSTS TO ENTER: • SA Showing Membership: Not required. • KPC Temporary Membership: R150 per competitor • In-hand classes: R300 per class (*No additional charge for championship classes) • Riding classes: R350 per class (*No additional charge for championship classes) • Racehorse to Show Horse: R300 Entries are to be submitted through the KPC website. HOYS 2024 TIMETABLE FOR THOROUGHBREDS: TUESDAY 27th FEBRUARY 2024 • BOB CHARTER • 8am - Thoroughbred In Hand • 1pm - Thoroughbred Riding Horse, followed by Racehorse to Show Horse • MAY FOXCROFT • 8am - Thoroughbred Working Hunter • PETER MINNIE • 8am - Thoroughbred Working Riding SUNDAY 3rd MARCH 2024 • BERNARD MCHARDY • 7.30-9.30am - Pre-Judging Breed Supreme Geldings, Stallions and Mares • BOB CHARTER • 10am – Supreme Working Hunter • 11.30am - Supreme Working Riding • 2.15pm - Gelding Supreme • 2.30pm - Breed Supreme • 3.15pm - Ridden Supreme
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GET YOUR ENTRIES IN! With such a wide variety of classes available, we hope to see all you Thoroughbred owners out in action this year at HOYS!
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HORSE AND RIDER
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HORSE AND BREEDING
TEXT: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE
SO, YOU WANT TO BREED A FOAL? THE WHAT, WHEN, WHO AND HOW OF IT ALL...
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s we’re still in the heat of the breeding season, we thought we’d investigate exactly what goes into breeding a foal - from the moment the thought is conceived in your mind up until the bundle of joy graces you with his presence. To do this, we need to start right at the very beginning, and that is with the mare. THE MARE There are a few key questions to ask when considering breeding with your mare, namely ‘why’, ‘how’, and ‘what’. WHY? If you are a mare owner, why do you want to breed with her? Here are some things that you might want to consider before you decide to breed your mare:
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• Consider the equine industry in the country you live in, and ask yourself what will happen with the foal you want to breed, specifically, what will happen if the foal does not turn out to be the horse of your dreams and you need to sell him? • Don’t forget the personal and financial implications that come with breeding! Beyond getting your mare pregnant, you will have to feed and house both her and the foal for nearly five years before you can even sit on your foal and feel his potential for the first time. • Consider what you are trying to breed, and can you achieve this goal by breeding from your mare? For this, you need to evaluate her genetics, performance, conformation, temperament, age and health. If you’ve answered all of these questions and still want to proceed, the next question is…
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NOTE Your mare being unsound or ‘retired’ is not a good reason to breed with her. Pregnancy puts a huge strain on the body, and a horse that already has physical issues is likely to find the pregnancy and foal-raising journey a challenge.
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FAST FACT?
HOW? How do you intend to breed your mare? Do you want her to carry the foal herself, or will you be using a surrogate and doing embryo transfer? There are a few important considerations for both of these options and we have tried to summarise them as best as possible below:
If you want to put your mare in foal, the veterinarian may scan and recommend administering a Lutalyse injection, which helps with scheduling insemination as the mare should ovulate within 10-14 days of the injection.
EMBRYO TRANSFER
BREEDING DIRECTLY
Much more expensive process
Less expensive process
You can breed from mares during their sporting career.
Your mare will either need to be retired or take a sabbatical from sporting competition.
Mares that cannot carry their own foals due to illness or Some mares are unable to carry their own foals. injury can still pass on their genes. You can only have one foal a year, and if the mare You can have more than one foal from the same mare in becomes pregnant with twins, one is normally reduced a year. for safety reasons. Mares that may be considered ‘too old’ to breed can still reproduce.
Once your mare is too old, she may no longer be able to breed.
There is a lower rate of successful pregnancy with embryo transfer. It may also take longer to get a successful pregnancy. This is due to the three stages of ET (pregnancy, flushing the embryo, implanting the embryo) that are all required to be successful.
Higher pregnancy rates - there is only one ‘stage’ involved.
Longer process as surrogates need to be acquired and synchronised to the donor mare.
Can be a very quick process.
Research suggests the process could have a negative effect on the donor mare fertility, especially if done repeatedly.
No impact on fertility.
So now you’ve decided how you are going to go about this, you need to answer the next important question…
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FAST FACT If you are using imported semen, you may see on some stallions the phrase “ICSI ONLY” this is a new process that involves Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injections and is currently in its testing phase in South Africa, with Breedmore Equine Fertility Clinic hoping to offer this service in the near future. ICSI is a process developed specifically for where there is limited semen available from certain stallions, such as those now deceased or those with poor sperm quality. Stay tuned for our next edition, where you will be able to learn more about this fascinating new technique.
WHO? Who are you going to breed her to? An important preliminary consideration is if you plan to use fresh, chilled or frozen semen. Generally, if the stallion you would like to use is available in the country, the semen will be fresh or chilled (if it needs to be transported to you). If you are looking at imported semen, it will be frozen and will likely come with a slightly bigger price tag. So, where do you begin with selecting a stallion?
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We asked two of our local breeders for their recommendations: Claire Martin of Martini Stud says: “Start by looking very critically at your mare to determine her strengths and weaknesses in conformation, temperament, and ability. Try and ask other knowledgeable people for their input on your mare, for instance, the rider and trainer, if she had a ridden career. Then, look for a stallion whose strengths will complement her weaknesses.
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HORSE AND BREEDING
Once you have a short list of stallions, go and look at them at the stud/yard or research them online. You want to check their conformation and character at home. You should not be choosing a stallion by watching a video of him jumping one round at a competition. If the stallion has foals on the ground, go and see them and speak to their owners and riders to see what traits from the stallion have been passed on to the progeny.”
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When asked who her favourite stallion at the moment is, Claire responded: “My favourite stallion is the one who best compliments my mare! He is the one who reliably and consistently stamps his progeny. At the moment, Pegase van’t Ruytershof is one of my favourite stallions as he really stamps his foals. Pegase is the type of stallion I am looking for for my current mare herd, as he brings power! Time will tell if the jumping talent is passed on. Locally, I am very pleased with my foals from Legend; they all have very correct limbs.”
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Maxine De Villiers of Adela Warmblood Stud says: “A good stallion can only do so much to improve on a mare, and people often make the mistake of thinking that putting a mediocre mare to a great stallion will magically create the next Valegro; sadly, this is not the case. Similarly, choosing a stallion for his colour and prettiness often won’t get you the perfect ‘Barbie’ horse! Consider why you want to breed - is it for a specific purpose or discipline, or do you want to breed a foal for yourself to compete one day? Perhaps you want to breed a foal to be sold on? All these factors form part of choosing the correct stallion for your mare and yourself.
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Please note that if you are breeding for yourself, you need to be realistic about your riding goals; there is no point in breeding the next Totilas if you are an amateur rider who only wants to compete at the Elementary Level, as the chances are you might not be able to ride the foal you breed! Once you have decided upon the purpose, then, you need to do a lot of research on the best stallions available that would complement the mare you are using. One of the biggest mistakes I see breeders making is following the trends, e.g., everybody is currently breeding with the dressage sensation Glamourdale without considering the type of mares he would suit.
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HORSE AND BREEDING
Perhaps the most important aspect for me when selecting a stallion is to know your mare well. Be realistic and unbiased about your mare’s positive aspects and even more particular on the negative attributes to assist you in finding a stallion to compliment her weaknesses. Then, make the same evaluation for the stallion you have in mind. Also, have a look at the stallion’s offspring; look at what bloodlines seem to be a success when combined with his. An example of this in the dressage world would be the legendary pairings of Donnerhall and Sandro Hit.
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Try to view potential stallions in the flesh – if it’s not possible, then I would recommend looking up people who have used that stallion and asking their thoughts on the foals they have bred. They may be able to give you some insight into character traits the stallion seems to pass on. This is invaluable in determining if a stallion could improve on the areas in which your mare needs improvement. Finally, ask as many questions as possible and chat to the stallion owner or breed manager directly; they will give you a great idea as to what type of mare would suit their stallion.”
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FINAL THOUGHTS We hope we’ve given you enough food for thought as you pursue your breeding adventures! If you want to check what imported semen is available, we recommend you look at www.debruynequine. co.za and www.iconicsires.co.za, but be sure to ask around, as there are plenty of top-quality stallions available here in South Africa!
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FOCUS
B2U SADDLE FITTERS FIVE SIGNS YOUR SADDLE NEEDS FITTING
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ronwyn Gurr, KZN-based Saddle Fitter, has been fitting saddles for over 22 years. “2001 was when it all began! I did a three-year saddle fitting apprenticeship at Western Shoppe to prepare me for my exam with The Society of Master Saddlers. I flew all the way to the UK to perform a practical and oral exam, and I passed! I qualified in 2004 and have never looked back! The Society of Master Saddlers Certificate in Saddle Fitting is the worldwide qualification for saddle fitting and is verified and monitored by an independent educational body – City & Guilds (C&G).”
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Here are Bronwyn’s top five signs that your saddle might not be fitting and it may be time for a check: 1. N oticeable signs of back pain in your horse, either when palpating the back or signs of unhappiness when saddling up. 2. R estricted shoulder movement under saddle. 3. Feeling unbalanced in the saddle or the saddle slipping to one side or another. 4. Difficulty walking down hills. 5. Resistance to forward movement.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
THE LANGUAGE OF EQUINE DISCOMFORT RECOGNISING SIGNS OF PAIN IN YOUR HORSE
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s devoted horse owners, we share a special bond with our equine companions. This makes us the best placed to notice when our horses are unhappy. Yet, deciphering the subtle language horses use to communicate their discomfort or pain
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is not always easy, even when we know our horse 'inside-out'. Here, we look at some of the classic signs of pain and discomfort in the equine to act as a checklist for you to run through each time you see your horse.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
CHANGES IN BEHAVIOUR Horses are highly expressive animals, and alterations in behaviour are often the first indicators of pain. Watch for deviations from their usual demeanour. A once docile horse may become irritable or aggressive, while a typically bold horse might display signs of lethargy or depression. FACIAL EXPRESSIONS The horse's face can be a revealing canvas of their emotions. Scrutinise their expressions for signs of tension, a furrowed brow, or a tight jaw. Ears pinned back, excessive eye blinking, and flared nostrils can all signal discomfort.
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SPOOKINESS Horses experiencing pain are much more likely to enter a flight, fight or freeze response than a comfortable horse. As the pain has already aroused their nervous system, they are far more likely to be triggered by something in their environment than if they were in a calm, unaroused state. If your horse suddenly becomes much more spooky, it is worth considering pain as a cause.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
CHANGES IN EATING HABITS Horses are creatures of habit, especially when it comes to mealtime. Any deviation from their regular eating patterns, such as a sudden disinterest in food or changes in chewing behaviour, could signify dental issues, gastric discomfort, or other pain-related concerns.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
GROOMING BEHAVIOURS A horse in pain may exhibit changes in their grooming habits, such as being unusually sensitive or intolerant of touch. Reluctance to be brushed, sensitivity around certain areas, or a defensive posture during grooming may all point to discomfort.
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ALTERED MOVEMENT PATTERNS Pain can manifest in the way a horse moves. Observe for lameness, stiffness, or reluctance to perform certain actions. If your horse exhibits an uneven gait, favours a particular limb, or resists engaging in physical activities, it may be indicative of underlying pain. Similarly, if they are unwilling to perform activities that they would usually do without issue, it is worth looking into whether they are experiencing discomfort of some kind.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
POSTURE AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION Observing your horse's stance and weight distribution can provide valuable insights. A horse in pain may stand in a way that relieves pressure on aching limbs or shifts their weight unevenly. Changes in how they carry themselves, such as a hunched back or an unlevel pelvis, warrant closer attention.
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RESPIRATORY CHANGES Pain can also impact a horse's respiratory rate. Shallow breathing, rapid respiration, or signs of distress during breathing may suggest pain, particularly if there's no apparent physical exertion.
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H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
FINAL THOUGHTS In our roles as the 'voice of our horse', it's incumbent upon us to be vigilant observers of their behaviour. Recognising the signs of pain early on allows us to address underlying issues promptly and ensure the wellbeing of our equine companions. Regular veterinary check-ups, coupled with a deep understanding of your horse's usual behaviour, will empower you to decipher the nuanced language they use to communicate discomfort.
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
SECURING
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
SERENITY A GUIDE TO SAFE FENCING FOR HORSES
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
C
reating a safe and secure environment for our equine friends is paramount for their wellbeing. Choosing the right fencing is not just about 'keeping them in the paddock'; it's about providing a secure space that minimises the risk of injury. This article explores the elements of safe fencing to ensure your horses can roam and graze safely!
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MATERIAL MATTERS Selecting suitable fencing material is crucial. Options include wood, vinyl, electric, mesh, and pipe fencing. Each material has pros and cons in terms of safety, durability, maintenance and cost, and the choice also depends on factors such as budget, maintenance preferences, and the temperament of your horses. Here are some of the pros and cons of the most common types of fencing materials used for horses:
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
WOODEN FENCING Pros: • Aesthetic appeal: Wooden fences have a classic, natural look that blends well with rural landscapes. • Sturdy and durable when properly maintained. • Can be painted or stained for added protection and aesthetics. • Provides a solid physical barrier for horses. HQ|165A
Cons: • Requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, to prevent rot. • Initial installation costs can be relatively high. • Prone to damage from chewing or cribbing horses. • Potential for splinters or protruding nails if not adequately maintained.
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
VINYL FENCING Pros: • Low maintenance: Resistant to rot, fading, and weathering. • Smooth surface reduces the risk of injury to horses. • No painting or staining is required. • Long-lasting and durable. Cons: • Higher upfront costs compared to some other materials. • Limited colour options. • Can become brittle in extremely cold temperatures.
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
[Box] Avoid barbed wire While barbed wire may be cost-effective, it poses significant risks to horses. The potential for severe injuries, including cuts and punctures, makes it an unsuitable choice for horse enclosures. Opt for materials that provide a strong yet horse-friendly barrier. [end box]
ELECTRIC FENCING Pros: • Cost-effective compared to traditional materials. • Provides a psychological barrier for horses. • Easy to install and modify for rotational grazing. • Can be temporary or permanent. Cons: • Requires consistent maintenance to ensure the electric charge is effective. • Visibility may be an issue, increasing the risk of accidental contact. • Not suitable for all horse types, as some may challenge or ignore the barrier. • Relies on an electric power source, which may be a concern during power outages. HQ|165A
MESH FENCING Pros: • Offers a safe and secure barrier with no gaps. • Provides excellent visibility for horses. • Can be combined with other materials for added strength. • Low maintenance compared to some traditional materials. Cons: • Initial installation costs may be higher. • Mesh openings can trap hooves, posing a risk of injury. • Prone to damage if not properly maintained. • Limited flexibility compared to electric fencing for rotational grazing.
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
PIPE FENCING Pros: • Strong and durable, providing a secure enclosure. • Minimal maintenance required. • Resistant to chewing or cribbing. • Can be aesthetically pleasing. Cons: • Higher initial installation costs. • Limited flexibility for adjusting or modifying the fence. • May require specialised tools for installation and repair. • Can pose a risk of injury if not properly capped or rounded.
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When choosing a fencing material, it's essential to consider your specific needs, the temperament of your horses, budget constraints, and long-term maintenance requirements. A combination of fencing materials may also be suitable for different areas within the horse paddock. HQ|165A
H O R S E A N D YA R D
HEIGHT AND VISIBILITY The height of the fence is crucial in preventing escapes and minimising the risk of injury. A fence height of at least 1.4m to 1.7m is recommended for most horse breeds. Additionally, ensuring visibility is key. Horses can be startled easily, so a fence that they can see easily and avoid bumping into, as well as one that allows them to see out easily helps avoid unnecessary panic. POST PLACEMENT The spacing and sturdiness of fence posts play a pivotal role in overall stability. Posts should be securely anchored, placed at regular intervals, and free from sharp edges. Proper post spacing helps evenly distribute pressure over the fence, reducing the risk of potential breakage or collapse. HQ|165A
GATES Gates are high-traffic areas, and ensuring their safety is paramount. We highly recommend creating a wide-open gate area to avoid injuries from horses crowding at the gate. Invest in sturdy gates with safe latching mechanisms. Avoid sharp edges or protruding hardware that could pose a risk of injury. Regularly check and maintain gate latches to prevent accidental escapes or injuries.
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H O R S E A N D YA R D
REGULAR MAINTENANCE Regular inspection and maintenance are essential for any fencing type. Rot, rust, loose wires, or damaged posts can compromise the integrity of the fence and risk injury to horses. Implement a routine checkup schedule to address issues promptly and ensure a secure environment. CONSIDER PASTURE LAYOUT The layout of pastures and enclosures should be horse-friendly. Avoid sharp turns, enclosed areas or tight corners that may lead to collisions or injuries.
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FINAL THOUGHTS Safe fencing is not just about keeping your horse in the paddock; it's about creating an environment where horses can play and move without the risk of injury. Choosing the right materials, ensuring proper installation, and conducting regular maintenance ensures your horses are safe and contained within their paddock.
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YOUR EQUESTRIAN QUESTIONS ANSWERED
My horse bobs his head up and down if he is in the stable for a while. Most people laugh and find this funny, but my stable manager has recently said that she thinks his behaviour could be due to stress. Is this true? Firstly, we would recommend contacting your vet, who can rule out any physical causes for the behaviour. If the vet confirms that there are no obvious physical causes, then it is likely to be related to stress or anxiety. There can be numerous reasons why your horse is stressed and showing this response. For example, he could be experiencing stress due to long-term confinement, or he could be displaying a form of abnormal behaviour (a stereotypy) as an outlet for his anxiety. In order to address the issue, ensure that your horse receives sufficient turnout, forage and time with other horses. You can also look into enrichment sources for times when your horse is unavoidably confined to the stable. Some ideas for enrichment sources include hanging horsesafe vegetables like carrots from the ceiling of the stable, cutting holes in a cardboard box and filling it with different foods, or putting various types of hay in different stations around the stable. It is best to find the cause of the behaviour and make changes to address the cause rather than attempt to fix the behaviour itself, as this could result in further stress. If the behaviour continues, it would be worth contacting a qualified equine behaviourist to see if they can get to the bottom of your horse’s behaviour.
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Q&A
My horse has just been diagnosed with gastric ulcers in the squamous part of his stomach. He is in light work and has been fed a balancer. Do I need to change this? Like all horses, those with gastric ulcers, or those prone to them, should have access to forage at all times. This keeps the horse chewing and producing acid-buffering saliva while also keeping a steady flow of fibre going into his stomach to soak up the acid produced to begin digestion. Any periods without forage allow acid to build up, which can then splash up and damage the vulnerable squamous mucosa. If your horse is fussy about his forage, consider offering alternative fibre sources alongside hay to HQ|165A
encourage natural foraging behaviour and to increase overall fibre intake. Options for this include different types of grass and hay, chaff or even hay pellets. Starch from cereals increases gastric acidity levels, so it is important to ensure that any feeds given alongside the forage are low in starch. Your balancer is unlikely to contain much starch, but it is worth double-checking this. It is also a good idea to split hard feed across as many meals as possible over the course of 24 hours to support efficient digestion. Finally, before exercising your horse, ensure that he has forage or fibre in his stomach to mop up the acid present and reduce the risk of splashing acid that damages the mucosa.
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lotion’s reparative qualities, the oil takes on the role of a soothing agent, alleviating itching and discouraging rubbing behaviours. Together, they provide a holistic, natural solution for your horse's skin and hair care needs. Find the Leovet No Rub and Bio-Skin Oil solution at Western Shoppe. Learn more at www.westernshoppe.com www.westernshoppe.com
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