Equestrian Hub Magazine Issue 3 2022

ISSUE 3 • 2022

Rhys Stones

Hot on the trail of the World Cup

Paralympian Sharon Jarvis

The battles and triumphs of a fighting spirit

Decision time When you know your horse is not The One

Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists

Patterns with poles

Why Lucy Williams is passionate about polework

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Editor Amanda McWhinnie amanda@equestrianhub.com.au Advertising Enquiries Amanda Patrick 0432 918 235 apatrick@equestrianhub.com.au The Saddle Hub Sales Enquiries Shae Herwig info@equestrianhub.com.au

Website/Subscriptions www.equestrianhub.com.au Published by Equestrian Hub PO Box 13, Tintenbar NSW 2478 0414 760 067 info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au Follow Equestrian Hub  equesthub

 equesthub

On the Cover Rhys Stones and Othello MVNZ competing at the Sydney Jumping Association Competition Day last November (Image by Giorga Gall, Gallant Media).

Magazine Layout Kimberley Bloom Design www.kimberleybloom.com.au kim@kimberleybloom.com.au

THIS PUBLICATION IS PUBLISHED BY EQUESTRIAN HUB. MATERIALS IN THIS PUBLICATION HAVE BEEN CREATED BY A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT ENTITIES AND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE PUBLISHER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR MATERIALS CREATED BY OTHERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE OPINION OF THE PUBLISHER, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES. CONTENTS OF ADVERTISEMENTS ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE ADVERTISERS. ANY USE OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION IS AT THE SOLE RISK OF THE PERSON USING THAT INFORMATION. ©2021 EQUESTRIAN HUB EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY LAW, NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF EQUESTRIAN HUB. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION AND CREDITS ARE CORRECT WHEN GOING TO PRINT BUT MAY CHANGE AFTERWARDS.

2 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 3 • 2022

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Contents 4 7 8 18 23 26 32 38 46 50 56 62 66

Our Contributors From the Horse’s Mouth Spotlight on Rhys Stones Brister’s Brief Ask an Expert: Jenny Merity Delivering Dreams finalists Feature: When love doesn’t find a way Feature: The key to sound nutrition Vet Vibes: Hoof health in the wet Feature: Not if, but when Nutrition: Obesity in the show ring Feature: It’s show time Tacked Up: Getting to grips with girths Pt 2

ISSUE 3 • 2022

70 77 78 82 86 91 92 96 102 104 106 108

Feature: Runway ready European Trends: Getting smart Travel: It’s time to escape Life After Racing: Living the life Feature: Fashion finds for cooler days Saddle Review: PDS Valegro On My Tackbox: To be your best Training Tips: Playing with patterns Young Rider: Brielle Powell Property Central 20 Questions with Rachel Watts Stockists W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 3

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Enya Crockford A rider for most of her life, Enya has been a qualified coach since her teens. She's trained numerous horses up through the eventing levels and is currently working with her sweet but opinionated homebred mare. In this issue she talks to threetime Paralympian Sharon Jarvis about overcoming the many challenges she’s faced throughout her career.

Amanda Mac As editor of Equestrian Hub Magazine, Amanda’s two longstanding passions, one for horses the other for writing, come together perfectly. In this issue she talks to Rhys Stones, as well-known in the show ring as he is in the show jumping arena, about the trials and triumphs associated with building a successful equestrian business and career.

David Nash Director of Nutrition Technology at KER, David is an equine nutrition professional with many years’ experience. He advises on feeding and managing horses across all disciplines, and has been instrumental in quality control, laboratory management and analysis, and pasture research. In this issue he explains why knowing what’s in your pasture is key to sound nutrition.

Jessica Morton Jessica is a dual national New Zealand-Italian freelance journalist, equestrian traveller and writer. Currently based in Tuscany, she’s perfectly positioned to bring us the very latest in European equestrian trends and innovations, from the state-of-the-art NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™ to stylish winter wear designed to keep you cosy no matter where you are.

Jenny Merity An FEI Eventing, Jumping, and National Dressage Steward, Jenny works at Equestrian Australia with National Discipline Committees to schedule FEI events and entries. She has competed up to 1* Eventing and still loves pottering around all the lower levels of competition. Across all the latest rule changes, she brings us up to date in this issue.

Dr Clarissa Brown-Douglas Clarissa has ridden all her life. Her career as an equine nutritionist has taken her around the world, working with horse owners, breeders and trainers to provide nutrition advice for their equine athletes. Now based in Bendigo and a member of the Kentucky Equine Research team, she looks at the problem of equine obesity.

4 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 3 • 2022

Charlie Brister Regular columnist Charlie is an all-round horseman and an expert in retraining problem horses. He also coaches riders in the art of cross country, show jumping and dressage. In the second instalment of his two part series on teaching young horses to jump, Charlie introduces the concept of combination fences and related lines.

Dr Doug English A veterinarian and longtime turmeric researcher, Doug completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland in 1974. He’s well-known throughout Australia for his work in the equine industry and is a long-time Equine Veterinarians Australia member. In this issue he discusses those troublesome hoof ailments that frequently occur during wet weather.

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Christine Armishaw Christine is a horse trainer, coach and passionate eventing and jumping rider. A Kiwi girl based in NSW, she teaches others not just how to ride, but also how to understand their horse. In this issue, she looks at a surprisingly common dilemma: what to do when you have a horse you’re no longer happy to ride.

Kathryn Sullivan-Butt Kathryn Sullivan-Butt is The Saddlefitter.

An EA and AHRC coach with over 20 years’ experience, she is nationally and internationally trained and accredited with the Society of Master Saddlers, the ASFA, and Equinology. In the final of her fascinating two part series, she explores girths and correct girth point selection for English saddles.

Paul Austin Paul has worn multiple hats - show rider, handler, judge, instructor - throughout his career. His name is synonymous with the highest echelons of showing and he’s renowned for his vast knowledge of the sport and meticulous attention to detail. Involved with many show ring greats, he offers some fascinating insights into the secrets behind his success.

Jess Morrison After completing her Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction, Jess opened the doors to Performance Pilates in 2009. She has extensive experience in dealing with a range of injuries and pathologies, with a particular focus on the immense benefits of Pilates for equestrians of all levels and disciplines.

She shares some of her expertise in this issue.

Suzy Jarratt Suzy has lengthy and varied form as a writer and presenter.

She works for several Australian and overseas companies, is the author of three published books, and three years ago won an international award for equestrian journalism. As the Royal Agricultural Society celebrates its 200th birthday, she delves into the rich tradition behind the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Sharon Jarvis Diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma at seven years old and given a poor prognosis, Sharon defied the odds to become one of the most decorated Para-equestrian athletes in Australian history. The first Australian Paraequestrian to compete in three Paralympic Games – Beijing, Rio, and Tokyo – she also competed successfully at the World Equestrian Games.

Chris Kenner Chris is a media and communication specialist with more than 10 years’ experience working on global events and for national sporting organisations.

He joined Racing Victoria (RV) in 2019 to support delivery of the programs and initiatives which underpin RV’s three-year Equine Welfare Strategic Plan. In this issue, he introduces their innovative Off the Track Community program.

Lucy Williams Originally from the UK, Lucy brings 20 years of equestrian coaching experience to the table. With a string of qualifications including a BHSII and Ride With Your Mind certification, she regularly trains with other coaches to improve and update her equestrian skills and coaching methods. In this issue, she dives deep into pole patterns.

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

From the Horse’s Mouth

conversation with three-time Paralympian Sharon Jarvis. With immense grit and determination Sharon has overcome incredible obstacles, and is firmly of the belief that when it comes to achieving it’s not a matter of if, but when.

Our nutrition feature is on pasture: how do you assess the quality? How do you know that your horse is receiving the

With Fiona Todd

W

nutrients they need? KER’s Director of Nutrition Technology explains.

elcome once again to the

Pilates expert Jess Morrison shares tips

Equestrian Hub Magazine.

every rider should know, and offers up

And what a super issue!

three exercises designed to strengthen and correct rider posture. Meanwhile

We have lots of very exciting changes

registered BHS Instructor Lucy Williams

taking place here at EH Headquarters,

explains the importance of pole work

so make sure you keep an eye on

and how often you should use them as

our website and social pages for

part of your training regime. She also

all the updates. One of the biggest

suggests some pole patterns that will

developments is that from now on, we

get both you and your unicorn thinking!

will be a monthly – yes, a monthly – magazine, still with all the same great

Racing Victoria’s Chris Kenner

content, but with some awesome new

introduces their innovative Off the Track

industry experts adding to the mix, and

Community program, and European

so much more besides. We’re so excited!

correspondent Jessica Morton reports on a technologically advanced halter

In this issue, our Spotlight is on Rhys

before delving into some divine cool

Stones, who competes successfully in

weather fashion ideas.

the jumping arena and show ring, and in partnership with wife Jess, has created

Shane Rose’s super groom Rachel Watts

the renowned J & R Equestrian brand.

answers 20 Questions, and we tempt you with a Margaret River getaway …

In the last appearance of Brister’s Brief

come on, you know you want to!

(now don’t panic, Charlie will still be

fierce. Be sure to watch our socials for

with us but in another form), we see the

information on how you can vote in our

Then there’s Young Rider Brielle Powell

final in his informative two part series on

very popular Readers Choice award.

who has set a hard-to-beat record with

teaching young horses to jump.

four prestigious Sydney Royal Easter Christine Armishaw tackles the difficult

We also have show fever! Suzy Jarratt

Show equestrian awards in a row,

questions that arise when you and your

helps the RAS celebrate its 200th

and let’s not forget our PDS Valegro

horse no longer seem to be a marriage

birthday with a feature on the Sydney

dressage saddle review, plus a sneak

made in heaven, and FEI rule expert

Royal, and show ring guru Paul Austin

peek at another stunning equestrian

Jenny Merity keeps us up to date with

property … we wish!

reveals some of his winning ways. Plus, equine nutritionist Dr Clarissa BrownDouglas tackles the issue of obesity in the show ring and explains why overly

recent rule changes for dressage, eventing and show jump riders. It’s a confusing world!

padded ponies are at risk of succumbing

The Saddlefitter explores English saddle

to a variety of serious ailments.

girths and girth point selection, while

And (drum roll please), we introduce you to our ten Delivering Dreams finalists.

So pour your favourite tipple, relax and enjoy – and don’t forget to watch our socials for more exciting news to come.

resident vet Dr Doug discusses wet weather hoof ailments.

Congratulations to you all for making it

And if it’s inspiration you need, look

this far, because the competition was

no further than Enya Crockford’s W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 7

S P OT L I G H T

A

t no time ever did the young Rhys Stones contemplate making a living from horses.

“It’s really quite Ironic, isn’t it” he laughs.

You could say that. In partnership

Set in stone

with wife Jess, Rhys has grown J & R Equestrian into one of the Australian horse industry’s best recognised brands, so ‘ironic’ barely covers it.

There are not many major shows where

Everyone has dreams, but some are more willing than others to do what’s needed to achieve them. And Rhys Stones is more than willing, as AMANDA MAC discovers.

you won’t see the big black J & R truck, rarer still for Rhys and Jess to be missing from the winners’ circle. And talk to Rhys even briefly and it becomes obvious that he and Jess are a tight knit team.

S P OT L I G H T

They have both represented Australia internationally and produce and campaign horses of the highest quality.

The success they’ve achieved they’ve achieved together through hard work and toughing out the inevitable ups and downs of business.

But back to Rhys. He tells me he was too young to remember when he first started to ride. However, with his mother’s love of all things equestrian – she owned show horses and bred Thoroughbreds and Australian Stock Horses, albeit in a relatively minor way – I’m thinking it was probably fairly early. “The first pony I do recall was Darby, a black Welsh Mountain, or perhaps a Shetland,” he muses. “I just have memories of a fat little pony that had a mane that spiked up.” We agree that Darby’s certainly sounding a lot like a Shetland.

Growing up in Rutherglen, a small town near the NSW’s border in north-eastern Victoria, meant life was reasonably laid back. Rhys, his older sister and two younger brothers all rode, and, of course, went to Pony Club. Rhys recalls his early days on horseback as a bit of a mixed basket, which included all the local shows: “As a little kid you went into the funkhana ring and the child classes, and from there I graduated to sporting and mounted games, and I did a little bit of eventing in there as well.”

Perhaps influenced by his mother’s interest in the breed, by the time he’d reached his early teens Rhys was showing Stock Horses for their owners, as well as competing in Stockman’s

ABOVE: Rhys and Taittinger, Arrowfield Stud Large Hack Champion at the Elizabeth Farm HOTY Show (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography).

LEFT: With Tulara Colmar in the World Cup jump off at the 2019 Adelaide Royal (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography). he left school after Year 11, he’d already ruled out becoming a professional equestrian: “The very last thing I wanted to make money out of, or even to try and make money out of was horses. I guess where I came from that was a non-event, there was simply no money in it. So I did an apprenticeship and qualified as a brick layer.”

With the security of a trade behind him,

apprenticeship was with my father. So I

strategist who gives very careful thought

Now, that’s not to say that he didn’t have very definite plans to pursue his love of jumping – he did, and for that reason when his apprenticeship was pretty

to the decisions he makes. By the time

much complete he moved north.

as a pretty serious hobby, supported by

Challenges. Never one to do things by halves, he entered The Man from Snowy River Challenge at Corryong, and succeeded in placing second in the junior division – no small achievement.

That was in 2005, which is also around the time when the then 16-year-old Rhys developed a passion for show jumping.

Another thing you quickly realise during a conversation with Rhys Stones is that he is, and it seems always has been, a

Rhys based himself at internationally renowned eventer Simon Kale’s Foxground Training Stables two hours south of Sydney. Initially, Rhys had not intended relocating on a permanent basis, it was simply to have the opportunity to immerse himself in his sport. “I was quite lucky in that my had some flexibility around what I did. I’d always wanted to pursue show jumping but not as a career. I wanted to have it

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 9

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S P OT L I G H T

another career in a different industry. So at that point the move to Sydney was for just a couple of months at a time for competitions,” he explains.

But it took no time at all for Rhys’ talent to be recognised, and in 2007 he was selected for a junior team going to the International Friendship Championships in South Africa. And that was a turning point: “Once I'd had that experience, it really made me think okay, I want to keep doing this. And then it just progressed from there." he says.

Now keener than ever, on his return to Australia Rhys competed at a few shows including the JK Williams, a bit of a highlight on the NSW’s equestrian calendar back in the day. And that’s where he first met Jess Stalling: “I was 17 at the time and not long after that she went over to Europe for a couple of months and I ended up going back home.”

Unfortunately, in August 2007 equine influenza struck, bringing equestrian events in Australia to a standstill. It wasn’t until Rhys was eventually able to return to Sydney in 2008 that he and Jess reconnected at the New South Wales Youth Titles in Nowra. And that was pretty much it. “I don't think I really went back home much after that,” he says. Surely not a surprise!

When I ask Rhys how his career progressed from that point, he apologises for being a little bit vague on the details, but that has a lot to do with his take on life: “I’m not really one for remembering the past. I’m always looking forward to the future, that’s just what I do.”

Nevertheless, he tells me that although he’s never really purchased an established jumper, he and Jess have produced a number of World Cup horses from scratch. “I've won an Australian State Championship, a New South Wales State Futurity title, and numerous World Cup placings. I haven't actually won a

ABOVE: Competing with Othello at Waratah Showjumping in January this year (Image by Simon Scully Photography).

There are several names that Rhys rates

her warm up at shows something of

among his better horses. Oaks Altador,

a challenge. Her idiosyncrasies also

who he purchased as a yearling in 2009

caused Rhys to have three major falls,

and broke in the following year, was

not to mention an assortment of broken

Leading Young horse at the Adelaide

bones. Meanwhile Jess, who rode her for

Royal in 2013 and 2015, won three

a win in one of the mare’s first shows, the

Australian Speed Championships, and

Four Year Old Class at the SIEC Sydney

in 2016 was the AQUIS Gold Cup Grand

Summer Classic Young Horse Finals,

Prix Champion.

came home vowing never to ride Rhys’ “crazy” horse ever again!

World Cup yet, that’s still evading me

However, Altador did have her quirks.

unfortunately,” he says. Time will tell

Exceptionally shy of other horses, she

But quirks aside, Altador shone in a

whether that elusiveness lasts.

would do anything to avoid them, making

number of Royal Show Part 2 and Part W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 11

S P OT L I G H T

ABOVE: Jess and Rhys have grown J & R Equestrian into one of Australia’s best recognised equestrian brands (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography).

3 classes, as well as multiple Grand Prix

classes, which, Rhys reckons was a bit of

Imported from New Zealand as a three-

and Mini Prix. “She was a very successful

an achievement for both man and horse.

year-old, Othello was initially with a

horse,” Rhys recalls, “but unfortunately,

“Jess and I produced Tulara. My mother

Young Rider in Central Victoria. But

her career was cut short with a paddock

actually bought him as a weanling, so

when the state went into lockdown, the

accident when she fractured her fetlock

we had him for the whole journey. But

horse was sent to J & R Equestrian to be

as an eight-year-old just after winning

he wasn’t the horse for the Games and

sold. Rhys took him to a couple of small

the AQUIS Gold Cup at Elysian Fields.”

I knew that so I didn’t pursue it. But

events before a good friend came to try

yeah, I was very happy with what we’d

him out. “I was standing there watching

achieved and I eventually sold him last

and I'm thinking ‘this horse is not getting

year. There was also RS Crescendo in

sold. I’m buying it’. And thanks to my

there, another one that I World Cupped

friend for showing me what I don’t want

Also on Rhys’ ‘best of’ list is the then Stones family owned BS On Air, who was second in the 2014 Brisbane Royal World Cup (to date, the closest Rhys

for a while, and I did a couple of World

to get rid of!” he laughs.

has come to ticking that particular box),

Cups with Diamond B Vermont – so I’ve

placed at Gawler in the same year, and

Part of the now seven-year-old Othello’s

had four World Cup horses so far.” Not a

did well in Part 1 and Part 2 classes at a

appeal, Rhys says, is that he’s a very

bad result for someone who doesn’t buy

number of Royal Shows.

rideable horse, and very rideable

established horses.

equates to very saleable: “That was the

Then there’s the 2018 Australian Mini

From a business perspective, selling

main driver behind me buying him, he

Prix Champion Tulara Colmar with whom

Tulara Colmar was absolutely the right

was a good commercial proposition. He

Rhys qualified for Tokyo after picking up

decision, but it did leave Rhys vulnerable

is also a very cool horse, very nice to

a half Minimum Eligibility Requirement

in that he no longer had a Grand Prix

(MER) in the 2019 Adelaide World Cup,

horse. Fortunately, two client horses

and upgrading to a full MER at Sale.

filled the gap for a time but when they

Securing the MER required two clear

eventually returned to their owners, it

Show jumping is not Rhys’ only forte.

rounds in two separate World Cup

prompted Rhys to buy Othello MVNZ.

He’s had his fair share of show ring

12 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

watch and he wants to do his job. I'm quite confident that I’ll be taking him to Grand Prix either this year or next.”

S P OT L I G H T

the smallest member of the J & R team, their delightful daughter Eva, arrived three years ago.

A major component of their business lies in the show ring. Jess has built an outstanding career as a successful show rider, winning just about everything there is to win including the much coveted Garryowen. “I’m quite honestly able to say that if it weren’t for Jess, I would not be in the picture with show horses myself,” Rhys tells me, “but I’ve supported and will continue to support Jess in the show ring for as long as needs be. She's great at what she does and it's a great business we've created.

We've got fantastic long term clients with great horses, and that’s really the enjoyment of it.”

While all of this may sound a little like a fairy tale, don’t be fooled – the going has been far from easy. Ask Rhys what the biggest challenge has been, and he’s emphatic: “It’s the financial struggle.

I think the key to J & R Equestrian’s success is diversity. We are cross discipline in everything we do and we work hard.”

Prior to where the couple now sit with their business they both had outside jobs, at one stage riding track work.

Rhys went back to bricklaying for several years just to make ends meet - because, as he points out, there was no other choice: “If you rely solely on inconsistent business when you're trying to build ABOVE: Winning the Large Show Hunter Hack with Power Play at the 2019 ENSW Southern Cross Spectacular (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography).

your name and brand, you'll quickly

successes too. However, you can’t help

and riding different horses, because

But the Stones are both fiercely

but wonder, after the adrenalin fuelled

producing jumping horses to Grand Prix

independent, so relying on others has

sport of jumping, and qualifying for the

is a seven, eight year commitment.”

never been an option - and with no free

Olympics, how easy it is to make the

And then there’s the other side of the

transition back into showing. But ever

if they were to succeed. “We had to do

coin: Rhys and Jess’ now thriving J &

down to earth, he assures me it’s not

what we had to do,” Rhys says. “There

R Equestrian, a business they started

that difficult: "I've been up and down

were many years when I'd be away all

around 10 years ago. After moving

week laying bricks. I'd arrive home late

with horses my whole career. I get a

several times, the couple, who married

on Friday evening, be up at four o'clock

good horse and then it either gets sold

in 2016, eventually bought a property

on Saturday and Sunday mornings to

or breaks down, and usually I've got

at The Oaks, some 80 kilometres south

go to shows, and then have to be in bed

another one on the way up. So it's a

west of Sydney, where they plan to stay

by eight o'clock on Sunday night so I

journey. I feel like I'm just getting older

until they retire. To complete the picture,

could get up at two in the morning to go

lose out on it unless you've got financial support from somebody else.”

rides, complete commitment was crucial

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S P OT L I G H T

And speaking of jumpers, other than Othello, there are 22 horses under four years of age in the pipeline, with 10 on the truck to go jumping. Plenty of World Cup candidates in the making there, you’d imagine.

Now with their business well set up, I wonder what their plans are going forward. Initially, Rhys’ response surprises me. But when I think about it, it’s absolutely in line with his pragmatic approach: “Well obviously I’m very business driven, very business focused, and the main thing for me is investments, making hay while the sun shines as they say. To be absolutely honest, the goals I mostly think of are not in the horse industry. They’re around building a real estate portfolio for my family. That’s probably my highest priority.”

The couple have an investment property in Wodonga, and The Oaks certainly hasn’t gone backwards in value over the past 18 months. So it looks like things are nicely on track, which, given Rhys’ dream ABOVE: Rhys and Riverton Kanntador, an upcoming J & R youngster sired by Kannan out of Oaks Altador (Image by Simon Scully Photography).

of retiring to the Byron Bay hinterland by the time he’s 40, is a big plus.

Other than real estate, Rhys still has his

to work. You have to stick it out and be

Thoroughbreds to Warmbloods. We even

committed to what you want, and make

did a Shire last month. That's my role in

ends meet however you need to.”

the industry at the moment, breaking in

And the pressure certainly didn’t let up

and producing young horses.”

after buying The Oaks. “We've been here

It’s taken a long time to build their

regards the show ring, he has no goals.

now considerable reputation, but

He’s content to continue supporting

now for eight years. Jess has always been predominantly full time, but I was very indecisive about whether we could make a go of it without having to push Jess hard to generate income. I’d support her at any cost and it was getting to a

their perseverance has paid off. From breaking in two horses a month, now it’s up to ten, a dramatic increase by anyone’s standards. With between 35 to

eye on that elusive World Cup, and he’s pretty confident that Othello is the one to take him there, always assuming that the horse isn’t sold beforehand. With

Jess in what she does. “And that's the business focussed side of us,” he says.

“We do it because Jess is great at doing it and we love working with the horses.

That's the other driver behind showing,

40 horses on their property, and nearly

we just love working with nice horses.

all of them in work, life is hectic and

At the end of the day, the show ring

there’s pressure, lots of pressure, which

goals aren’t personal so much as they

fortunately Rhys and Jess thrive on.

are about setting objectives for each

They usually have three full-time staff

individual horse.”

to help carry the load, but the couple

I ask Rhys whether he’s ever had any

produce and ride all of their clients’

regrets around putting down his brick

business: “I would say my full time job

horses themselves. “We’ve got one

layer’s tools to move in the direction he

is breaking in horses. And that’s across

other girl, Tahli Hendlerand, who rides

has: “No, none whatsoever. I just had to

all disciplines and breeds, from showing

the horses that we own. She works all

wait for the right time.”

and dressage to show jumping and

the jumpers and Jess and I'll give them

Clearly, the benefits of being a strategist

pleasure, and anything from ponies to

a jump once or twice a week.”

are many.

point where I didn't want her to have to ride so many horses,” Rhys explains.

So it was back to another stint of bricklaying. But around four years ago, J & R Equestrian had grown to the point where Rhys finally made the decision to down tools and immerse himself in the

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 15

16 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

Chaste Tree Berry

Dandelion Root

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 17

I

n our last issue we got off to a flying start (hopefully not flying off the horse but over jumps!) when we

BRISTER’S BRIEF

talked about a vital stage of a horse’s education: introducing your youngster to

Being progressive Part 2

jumping. Now, this isn’t solely for show jumping horses or eventers. There are lots of benefits to jumping small fences with your dressage or trail riding horse too. So read on.

Recap In the January/February issue we focused on introducing a horse to jumping for the first time using a small jump and guide rails. It is vital to start

In the final part of his teaching young horses to jump series, CHARLIE BRISTER moves on to combination fences and related lines.

small with these exercises and gain confidence before progressing, so let's go over some key points from Part One to jumpstart your memory:

BRISTERS BRIEF

ABOVE: An example of related lines and combination set-up.

LEFT: If your youngster over-jumps, it’s likely they’re being careful or spooky rather than showing any real confidence.

Flatwork before jumping: show jumping is just flatwork with a few jumps in the middle.

Rider position: weight down into the heel and a balanced upper body.

is greater, let’s say between four and

shortens and the quarters start swinging

ten strides apart (you will very rarely see

you might be asking for the rebalance

three strides between jumps in show

a bit too abruptly. Try riding a smoother

jumping). Therefore how you jump one

half halt. If it’s still occurring go down a

fence will affect the next jump, because

pace and practice rebalancing the trot

they’re related to each other.

while focusing on straightness.

Each horse is different so you will have to

Flying changes

make an assessment as to what you do

These are an essential component of

after jumping a single fence. Quite often

smooth course riding. As you land after

having a related line with a second fence

a fence, the ability to perform a clean

straight ahead after five strides is an easy

flying change can increase your chances

to understand progression (see diagram).

of a clear round. If you haven’t got your

Flatwork

horse doing their changes yet, go back to the May/June 2021 issue for the first

As the difficulty of jumping increases,

Jumping: eyes up and leg on.

of my two part series on flying changes.

the demands on a horse’s flatwork will

In the meantime, change lead through

Departing jumps: focus on straightness.

similarly increase. You need to be able

trot to avoid having an argument with

Progression

to change the pace of the canter not

your horse. The changes will come with

only on straight lines but also in turns.

patient flatwork and consistent practice.

When rebalancing the horse from a

Related lines

Now it’s time to start jumping multiple fences. This could be either a combination or a related line before building up to a course. What is the difference between a combination and a related line? Well, a combination can be either two or three jumps in a line with

bigger canter, do they stay straight through the body? Or, do the quarters fall in or out? This is something to be aware of when doing transitions within the pace.

As with anything concerning horses, there can be a lot of variation between related lines. They can be straight or curved in either direction. Quite often a course will have related lines that cover all of those

either one or two strides between each

The aim is to be able to rebalance the

options: straight, curved left and curved

fence. A related line, on the other hand,

canter while keeping the horse’s neck

right. You will see this in show jumping

is when the distance between the jumps

long and the body straight. If the neck

and definitely in cross country, because W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 19

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BRISTERS BRIEF

the course designers are looking to test

wobble or change speed. Try and make

confidently over that you can raise the

your training. They don't want you to have

small changes so their focus stays on

height. So keep in mind that generally

problems, but they do want the course to

the fence in front of them.

speaking, when you change an exercise

show you possible holes in your training.

Change one thing at a time

or a jump, change only one thing at

Can you jump a left curving line as easily as a right curving line? Ideally your horse

This principle can apply to all areas of riding and training horses. By only

a time. The object is to educate your horse while building their confidence.

is balanced in both directions, but as we

changing one part of the exercise you

all know it is impossible for horses (or

Finishing the exercise well

minimise the chances of your horse

Last issue we talked about ensuring

their riders) to be completely even on

getting confused or over-faced. Think

your departure after the fences remains

both sides.

about how you could make a jump

as straight as possible. This will stop

Introducing combinations

physically and mentally more challenging.

the horse dropping a shoulder and

Start with two jumps set two strides

Then as your horse progresses, increase

anticipating the turn before you ask.

apart. To make it as easy as possible,

the difficulty of only one of those

Also, you want to keep riding the

place the poles on the ground. When

elements at a time. For example, you

horse after you have practiced your

your horse can trot and canter over the

believe it’s now appropriate to increase

combination or related line. This

poles comfortably raise the height so

the height of the combination. At the

means you finish with clear downward

they have to jump. Using guide rails

same time you place a blue tarp under

transitions, or ride the horse onto a

between the two fences (see Part One)

the second fence. This is raising the

circle. Do not let them finish the exercise

can help maintain straightness. Also,

height (physically more difficult) and

in any old way. Make it a quality end to

using cross rails can help keep the

adding a tarp (mentally more challenging).

the exercise and be consistent about it.

horse in the middle of the jump. There is

You are therefore increasing the chances

not a lot of time for adjusting the horse

of having a problem.

Doing this will keep your horse focused and they will stay more balanced

between fences in a combination. The

In this situation, first get your horse

when you are riding longer courses. If

important thing is good preparation

going over small jumps while increasing

they switch off after a few fences you

followed by small adjustments to

the spookiness of the fence, which

will have to do a lot more work to get

maintain the line and tempo as much as

allows them to easily accomplish the

them organised again. The better your

is practical. Don’t have a big fight with

task physically even if they do think

departure, the easier your approach to

your horse in between the fences if they

it’s spooky. Once they are jumping

the next fence.

ABOVE: Although jumps for youngsters are small and simple, keep your eyes up and heels down.

ABOVE: Landing in a light seat after the first jump with eyes on the next fence.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 21

Dedicated to dreaming and improving in equal amounts 22 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

ASK AN EXPERT

Jenny Merity: FEI rule expert

In addition, in January any Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) updates that affect our National Rules are incorporated into the National Sport Rules. And if they relate to the safety and welfare of the horse, updates can also be made to the rules at any time of the year.

There have been some key changes to National Sport Rules for 2022, so let’s take a look discipline by discipline:

Dressage and Para-Dressage

An experienced FEI Eventing, Jumping, and National Dressage Steward, JENNY MERITY brings us up to date with the latest rule changes.

N

o matter what your discipline,

For all National Sport Rules, there are

if you are a competitor you

two main updates annually: January

need to be across the latest

when key updates are made; and July when updates are made for any

rule changes. Ignorance of the law has

emergency repair, or for clarification

never worked as an excuse!

and/or refinement of existing rules.

The pathway to becoming an F-Level judge has been streamlined meaning more judges will be available to facilitate competition.

Dressage rules have been aligned with the Equestrian Australia (EA) Safe Stallion Policy, ensuring the safety of horses and athletes in warm-up areas, and easy identification of stallions.

The two year restriction for downgrading horses and ponies has been removed to allow new combinations to compete at their appropriate level.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 23

ASK AN EXPERT

ABOVE: If you’re riding with a jacket, your stock or tie can be white, off-white, a pale colour, or the same colour as your coat.

PREVIOUS PAGE: Low-level eventing grades have been included in the National Eventing Rules.

The application process for dressage

exemption to allow them to compete comfortably in dressage.

exemptions for athletes with a disability has been clarified, whether or not they want to compete as a Para-Equestrian, or simply receive an

When riding without a jacket, your stock, tie or ratchatcher should be white, off-white, or a pale colour.

If you’re riding with a jacket, your stock or tie can be white, off-white, a pale colour, or the same colour as your coat or a shade of your coat colour. Addtionally, coloured trim is now permitted.

For boots, front lace closures are now permitted.

Eventing To ensure that combinations have sufficient experience to move up the grades, it has been recommended that athletes have three qualifying results at EvA80 before moving up to EvA95.

ABOVE: Stewards can ask for bandages to be removed and reapplied if they feel they are overly tight.

Low-level evening grades have been included in the National Eventing

24 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

Rules. EvA50 and EvA65 are now incorporated into Annex C, allowing consistency across states with maximum heights, spreads, and distances documented.

Note: EvA50 and EvA65 are maximum heights but some states run classes at 45cm and 60cm and this is allowed.

There is no need for classes to be run at the maximum height unless the Course Designer or Technical Delegate wishes to do so.

It has been recommended that EA Nationally qualified Stewards are appointed to events to help educate our athletes on the rules as they progress through the grades, and hopefully through to FEI level. It will also ensure a fair and level playing field for all.

ASK AN EXPERT

ABOVE: The rule regarding penalties for exceeding the time allowed for Table A competitions has changed.

There is now clarification that athletes wishing to move up to CCN1*-S need three qualifying results as a combination before they can compete at this level.

Although helmet tagging was made

tightened. Stewards can also ask for

mandatory from 1st January 2022,

boots to be removed and reapplied.

due to a number of factors, including

This is for the welfare of the horse,

the cancellation of many events in late 2021, leniency was shown during

which is the keystone of our sport.

Jumping

January and February if athletes

With COVID disrupting competition

Specific National Jumping Rules (which apply in addition to adopted FEI Rules) are easier to review as they have now been shaded in grey.

did not have their helmet tagged.

in 2020 and 2021, allowance has

However, as of 1st March 2022 the

been made for EA Futurity, Stars of

helmet tagging rule now applies

the Future, and Future Stars classes

without exemption.

for 2022. Horses that are nine years

In competition warm up, gymnastic/ training exercises and placing poles are not allowed. They may be used in training on competition grounds elsewhere (preferably supervised by a Steward) but not in competition warm up.

The rule regarding penalties for exceeding the time allowed for Table A competitions has changed. There is now one penalty for each and every second, rather than one penalty for every four seconds.

Athletes are reminded that they

from their date of birth at the time of

can only carry one whip at any time

competition are eligible to compete in

anywhere on competition grounds,

these classes.

and only have one pair of spurs (one spur on each boot) at any one time.

Pastern bands are now allowed, as is Vet Wrap or similar lightweight bandaging material. Remember,

While rules and regulations can at times seem onerous, they are implemented for very good reason. They are there to safeguard you, your horse, and your

Stewards can, at any time, ask for these

fellow competitors, as well as to ensure

materials to be removed and reapplied

that all riders have the opportunity to

if they feel they may have been over-

compete on a fair and level playing field.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 25

Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists The quality of entries in the final round of Delivering Dreams 2021 was truly inspiring. Thanks to each and every one of you for taking the time to share your hopes and dreams for the future.

Although a difficult task, our 10 finalists have been selected and we introduce them on the following pages. We’ll be giving you, our readers, a chance to have your say with the very popular Reader’s Choice award, so watch our socials for details!

And a sincere thank you to our wonderful sponsors. Without their generous support, we would not be able to offer this innovative and exciting program.

Through Delivering Dreams, my dream of encouraging and supporting riders committed to achieving their best has become a reality – so too can yours!

F E AT U R E

Fresh off the flight from NZ in 2019, Kelly and Burrow get to know one another (Image courtesy Kelly Bridgland).

Kate plans to compete in hand this year with Warmblood filly Cloud Dancing (Image courtesy Kate Buckland).

Kelly Bridgland

Kate Buckland

Kelly is show jumper and EA Intro coach, competing

Kate’s main interests are dressage and showing.

at a 1.30m Young Rider level with her dream horse

After many years away, in 2020 she returned to the

Showtym Burrow.

equestrian world - first taking lessons to re-establish

She began jumping in 2015, and spent over five years

the basics, and then rescuing a mare in dire need

training with Vicki Roycroft as a working student,

of help. In December last year she competed in a

followed by two stints at Showtym Sport Horses in

dressage competition, her first in 16 years, and won

New Zealand, which, she says, was a ground-breaking

both her classes.

experience for both her relationship with her horses

Now with four horses, Kate trains as often as she

and her approach to her sport.

can afford with an FEI dressage rider. She is also

Reaching Young Riders was pivotal for Kelly: “Since

the secretary of Gin Gin & District Pony Club, and is

buying Burrow we have worked our way up to 1.30-1.35m,

upgrading her teaching qualifications. “I’ve taught

something I always thought unattainable. The highlights

across most English disciplines in both the UK and

of our partnership include our first Young Rider win at

Australia but my previous qualifications had long since

Waratah Show Jumping, achieving the first clear round

lapsed,” she says.

in the 2020 Summer Classic Young Rider final, and competing at the 2021 Sydney Royal Easter Show.”

With many previous successes under her belt, including qualifying for several state competitions,

Recognising that she hadn’t yet scratched the surface

Kate is now training two of her horses (both OTT

of her partnership with Burrow, 2021 was a year of

Thoroughbreds) to Preparatory and Preliminary level,

recalibration for Kelly: “I decided I needed to improve

with plans to compete at Medium on her coach’s

my mindset and confidence in order to bring out the

schoolmaster. Her longer term goals include enrolling

best in both myself and my horse.”

for a Level 1 EA Instructor’s certificate, opening the

And with some ambitious long-term goals in mind,

doors of the riding school she’s in the process of

she’s on the lookout for a mentor to help her with the

establishing, competing at FEI level dressage, and from

self-confidence she needs to successfully make her

there developing her skills through to Grand Prix.

way in the sport. “I believe that with consistent training,

Kate discovered her biggest challenge was regaining

both mental and physical, I’ll be able to not only deliver

her confidence after so long out of the saddle, and has

outstanding results in competition, but will feel proud of

been working with a local trainer to help overcome her

and fulfilled by my achievements, something I can then

fears. But she’s thankful that she found the courage to

pass on to my students,” she adds.

chase her dreams: “Returning to riding was against the

For Kelly, riding is about prioritising the wellbeing of

odds – everyone told me I was crazy! I had no money

both horse and rider, and she believes that with the

but I knew it was something I needed to do. Horses are

right support network, she can achieve her dreams.

my happy place.”

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 27

F E AT U R E

Sue and Bamboo Textiles Roulette competing in the 2020 Brigadoon 1CCN-1* (Image by Eric Lloyd Photography).

Kristle and a Little Bit of Blue at the 2021 Gundagai Show (Image by Govern Images).

Sue Cartledge

Kristle Cross

Sue is an eventer who’s currently enjoying an exciting

Now a keen dressage, show jumping and eventing

rise through the star classes. After competing in the lower

rider, Kristle first discovered her passion for horses as

levels for many years, she bought talented Warmblood

a 14-year-old gymnast training at the Australian Institute

gelding Bamboo Textiles Roulette (Ollie) in 2018. The

of Sport. Gymnastics had taken a toll on her body, and

pair have formed a great partnership. “We’ve been very

her physiotherapist suggested learning to ride as a way

successful at 1*, finishing in the top ten in 10 out of 13

of helping to keep her joints mobile. It wasn’t too long

starts. We’re now competing at 2* level,” she says.

before gymnastics was a distant memory!

Other than managing a niggling injury, Sue recognises

After leaving school, Kristle groomed for Grant Hughes

that her mindset and skills are areas that also need

of Canberra’s Emmaville Performance Horses. Her

improvement. “But I have strategies in place,” she

job involved accompanying Grant and his horses to

says. “I have two wonderful riding coaches and have

shows all over Australia, experiencing the sport at its

accessed mindset and sports science coaching to

highest level. “I worked as Grant’s groom for four years,

assist my personal growth. I firmly believe that to have

an amazing, career building and once-in-a-lifetime

professional results I need professional habits, and I

experience. My riding ability and horsemanship skills

work toward that ideal.”

flourished,” she says.

With that in mind, Sue has developed effective horse

A successful competitor herself, Kristle has travelled

management and training protocols, including a daily

to major shows throughout NSW, qualifying for the

routine that combines her own physical and mental

Sydney Royal in 2015 and 2016, winning Amateur of

fitness needs with a sustainable training plan for Ollie.

the Year at the 2015 Forbes Show, and successfully

“Being well organised in this sense allows me to

competing in the 2017 Bega Cup Mini Prix. Her current

achieve in a demanding career outside of the horse

horse, Little Bit of Blue (aka Harry) is a ten-year-old

world,” she adds.

gelding with plenty of natural ability who she intends

Sue is proud of her work ethic and dedication, which

starting at Mini Prix level next show season.

have helped keep her focussed through the inevitable

Now with her own coaching business, Kristle has

ups and downs as she edges ever closer to her dreams.

completed her EFA Introduction and Level 1 Coaching

Her immediate goals include competing successfully with

Qualifications, and has her sights set on an EA Level

Ollie at Perth’s Equestrian in the Park later this year, and

2 qualification. But there are other goals: “I want to

at 2* level in the 2023 Adelaide Australian International

compete at a high level in show jumping and dressage

Horse Trials. Long term, she aims at progressing to 3*

on horses I’ve nurtured and trained myself. I also want

competition and beyond, and representing WA in both

to increase my knowledge of horse management and

the Sydney and Melbourne International Horse Trials,

training, as well as to develop my coaching into a full-

and Australia in the Oceania Challenge.

time business.”

28 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

Courtney and Sandhills Swing competing in the EA95cm at Equestriad 2020 (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshot Australia).

Merryn and Gizmo, back from injury and with their sights set on success in the show ring (Image courtesy of Merryn Henderson).

Courtney Cusack

Merryn Henderson

A driven and passionate eventer, Courtney dreams of

Top of Merryn’s list is showing. She began competing

making the equestrian community a kinder and more

when her previous horse, a schoolmaster, got her back

encouraging space. “I hope to improve the culture of the

into riding after a 10 year break. “I started at the bottom,

competition scene through supporting other riders to

worked hard and was rewarded by winning the Horse

achieve their goals, by being an ear to listen, and a kind

Riding Club Association of Victoria Level 4 at the 2015

spirit around training and competition days," she says.

Summer Royal. I was graded up that day,” she says.

In working towards that outcome, Courtney has created a network of like-minded riders, arranged clinics, and has an Instagram page sharing inspiring and positive posts.

Striving for her dreams with no family support has taught On patrol at Circular Quay.

Courtney empathy and compassion. She’s frequently the first to help other riders needing a hand, offering to drive them to competitions or lending out her float.

Unfortunately her beloved schoolmaster became increasingly unsound, and was eventually replaced with Merryn’s “dream horse” Gizmo - then a two-yearold unbroken Riding Pony, now a large Galloway.

Merryn, who has lessons with her coach when finances allow, is confident that Gizmo has the talent for a successful showing career. “I attended my first competition with him last March. We finished the

“One of my great achievements was being appointed a

day on a good note and I was excited for our next

Pony Club Captain, where I was able to mentor younger

comp,” she explains. But a devastating setback (a

riders. I was also very privileged to win the best and

torn suspensory ligament acquired in the paddock)

fairest award across our entire Zone,” she says.

intervened, and it wasn’t until late last year that Gizmo

In the saddle, she counts taking out Champion at Silver

was given the all clear.

Hills ODE, placing second at the State Show Jumping

Determined to improve in her chosen discipline,

B Grade Championships, and most recently producing

Merryn is always ready to learn. It was during Gizmo’s

her young horse from 60cm to 1* eventing, as some of

rehabilitation that she became aware of nutrition’s role

her greatest successes.

in recovery, performance and overall health – and she

Of course, there are always more goals to attain and for Courtney that’s competing at Adelaide’s Australian International 3 Day Event, while inspiring other riders along the way.

now recognises the impact a good diet has on topline and general presentation.

A passionate equestrian, Merryn has set herself a number of goals, including improving her riding skills and developing her partnership with Gizmo so he

All of which is not bad for a city girl born and bred. “In

works kindly both at home and in the show ring. “The

metro areas there are limited agistment options, so I drive

icing on the cake would be to win a Champion in his

ninety minutes each way four to five times a week to see

Hunter class,” she adds, “and that's a goal I dream

my horse, and to ride her enough to keep her fit,” she says.

about every day.”

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 29

F E AT U R E

Kate and Prince enjoy down time on beautiful Silver Sands Beach (Image by PYT Photography).

Kacey and OTT TB Settle the Score in the Homes & Acreage World Wetlands Jumping at Boneo Park (image by Tazzie Eggins Photography).

Kate Johnson

Kacey Ledger

In 2013, Kate fell from her horse and broke a hip. As

Show jumping enthusiast Kacey has ridden all her

she lay in the dirt waiting for an ambulance, she had

life. As an eight-year-old she joined Pony Club and

a sudden realisation: that this very moment was the

competed in games and horse trials at state level. Now

beginning of her horsemanship career. “A fire was truly

the keen show jumper and her family have started a

lit in my belly,” she recalls.

business retraining and educating performance horses.

A Riding Club devotee, Kate has found her soul mate

This venture has grown considerably since Kacey

in Scarlett Cross Prince – a 16hh OTT Thoroughbred

registered as an Acknowledged Retrainer with Racing

– who has taken her from horse rider to horsewoman.

Victoria. She and her husband now rehome OTT

“We have developed horsemanship skills, riding skills,

Thoroughbreds, as well as breeding racehorses and

life skills and competitive skills. We’ve competed in

performance horses. “What was originally a passion

three shows and placed well in each, with a fourth in On patrol at Circular Quay. our first dressage test. We’re now very ready to get out there and bust some more dance moves for the judges!” she says.

and hobby has transformed into a successful small business,” she says, “with interest from buyers and people seeking to have their horses on our team for further education, training and experience. It’s an

Passionate about ethical horsemanship and

exciting moment in time to see where this journey will

competition, Kate studies the old masters and

take us.”

classical dressage, as well as the latest in science and biomechanics: “Horses and horsemanship are my entire life. If I’m not out with Prince I’m learning from books and other sources. I’m obsessed!”

Aside from working towards establishing an all-weather arena to increase their training capacity, one of Kacey’s main goals is to compete her home bred Warmblood at Grand Prix level. “I also have a stunning five-year-

And she is delighted with Prince’s progress. The

old OTT Thoroughbred mare showing super talent

OTT has become balanced and supple, and is now

over fences. I hope to see her competing at some

working well both in hand and under saddle, in either a

exceptional events in the future,” she adds.

cavesson or a snaffle bridle.

Other than being a role model for other riders who have experienced setbacks, Kate’s goal is to grow her skills and knowledge (particularly in the area of equine biomechanics) so she and Prince can continue to develop.

Never afraid of hard work, Kacey gets up early every morning to exercise her horses before going to her 9:00 to 5:00 job four days a week. On Fridays, her day off, she works multiple horses and prepares for shows.

While always putting her horse’s welfare first, she’d

“I also retrain the OTT Thoroughbreds and keep them

eventually like to compete in Advanced level dressage-

until the right home is found. I put 110 per cent effort

giving her the opportunity to show that it’s entirely

into every horse with no shortcuts taken. I take pride in

possible to compete horses in an ethical and kind way.

all I do, and the horse always comes first,” she says.

30 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

Lisa and homebred mare Juicy Wiggle at Alexander Park Dressage (Image courtesy Lisa Martin).

Jamie and Kolora Stud Optimus in full flight in the Mini Prix Final at Gatton World Cup (Image by Jedd Johnstone, The J’Taime).

Lisa Martin

Jamie Priestley

Lisa is a dressage rider, Paralympian and combined carriage driver. Riding competitively since childhood, her family took her to events all over Australia – a sacrifice which paid dividends when Lisa represented her country at Prix St Georges and Grand Prix level both at home and internationally.

Jamie has been riding her entire life, but her passion

When she married, she and her husband moved to a small country town. “Because having lessons and competing involved travelling between five to fifteen hours, things became difficult – but made it happen."

However, following two severe riding accidents, Lisa’s ankle was restricted to less than 15 per cent movement.

Although initially returning to able-bodied competition, she eventually took the opportunity to classify as a Para-equestrian, and was subsequently selected for the Australian Para-equestrian Team for Rio, where she came fourth in all three tests.

Unfortunately, two years ago Lisa had another particularly nasty accident, smashing her pelvis and damaging her spine. Although doctors were initially unsure whether or not she would walk again, after two years of rehabilitation she returned to the saddle and was awarded a Bronze medal from Dressage NSW for the percentages she achieved in competitions last year with her homebred mare.

As for dreams and goals, well, she has a few! “In two years I want to compete at Grand Prix level dressage, represent Australia again at the Paralympics, and eventually compete as an able bodied athlete at the Olympics. That would make me the first athlete to represent Australia in both Para and able-bodied Grand Prix dressage. But I’ve also started combined carriage driving, so there’re a few goals to kick there as well,” she says.

is for show jumping. Originally from the show ring, she started jumping around ten years ago and certainly hasn’t looked back.

Currently the NSW Senior State Show Jumping Champion with her horse Courage, she’s a member of the Martin Collins team for the Australian Show Jumping Teams League. She’s ranked at 15th on the World Cup ladder and has ridden three World Cups, placing seventh and ninth in two of them.

Jamie is also runner up to the Australian Young Rider Champion, and has competed all over the world, representing Australia on many occasions: “Two years ago, I placed third in the medium tour at the Berlin Global Champions event on a borrowed horse. I won numerous titles as a Junior and Young Rider, and I’m now competing at the top level in Australia,” she says.

Jamie is one of the few Young Riders who produce their own horses from the breaking in stage to elite level, and is currently ranked as one of the top three riders under 25 years of age in Australia.

While her goal is to represent Australia internationally and to be selected for the Olympics, Jamie also has a strong sense of community. “I always try to be a good example, and I aim to be a true ambassador for the sport,” she says. “I love my horses, I love competing, and I also love helping younger riders out when they’re having problems with their horses, or life in general. If I can inspire one person to aim higher on their horse, I am a very happy person.”

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 31

I

f you’ve found yourself wondering whether pursuing a relationship with your current horse is something

F E AT U R E

you should continue, you’re not alone.

Many riders at one time or another

When love doesn’t find a way

have questioned if the horse they find themselves with is indeed The One. But to know if the marriage has truly lost its spark, we need to delve deeper.

From the perspective of feeling unsafe, nervous or uncertain about riding a particular horse, there are a couple of key questions you need to ask yourself and

It’s quite a predicament. You have a horse you are no longer happy riding. Is it you? Is it them?

CHRISTINE ARMISHAW looks at this surprisingly common dilemma.

then, with brutal honesty, answer.

To start with, it’s worth considering why you ended up with the horse you have in the first place. Did you actually ride it before you bought it? Did you buy

based on looks or breeding? Was it what its competition history suggested it could go on to do with you? Or were you in a rush to buy and snapped up the first horse that came along?

As a coach, I meet people that for all sorts of reasons simply chose the wrong horse. They may have bought sight unseen and never got to try it out before purchase. Sometimes, they buy the horse based on the rider they want to become, when in fact the horse is not suited to the stage they are at right now. In other cases, due to lack of experience, they are captivated by the horse’s beauty or low price and fail to pay enough attention to temperament, arguably the most important attribute of all.

While not all these scenarios end badly, things can go wrong and if they do it's the rider’s confidence that takes a beating. The horse acts up, you get nervous, the horse feeds off your nerves and the behaviour gets worse. Before you know it, you don’t really want to get in the saddle so much anymore. These types of situations can be circumvented by enlisting the guidance of a coach or experienced horse person, who can help keep you on track when selecting the right horse in the first place.

On the other side of the coin, perhaps it’s less about the horse you’re on and more about a new headspace you’ve

LEFT: When you feel confident with your horse, riding is fun! Christine and Myal High El Capitano go cross country (Image by Mel Goodson, Snapshot Australia).

ABOVE: Christine aboard Myal High El Capitano, proof that riding should make you smile (Image by Mel Goodson, Snapshot Australia).

found yourself in. Changes like this

not nasty, and they simply do not sit in

Once you’ve honestly checked those

can occur after a fall or accident, after

the paddock plotting how they will try to

boxes, building up trust, rapport and

make you fall off during your next ride!

understanding is next on the cards.

becoming a parent, or simply even as you get older. As life moves along, we

Spend time focusing on groundwork to

can find ourselves more aware of what

If your horse is being difficult, you need

could go wrong compared to when we

to tick off some boxes before making

were younger. A frisky mount with a bit

rash decisions. Teeth and feet must be

of spice can go from fun to frightening

up to date, get some body work done,

as your perspective shifts with time.

check for ulcers, and pay attention to

to send your horse away to a trainer, and

the feed being consumed. The latter is

start getting back on yourself (ideally

you persevere? Whatever the cause,

a massive contributor to undesirable

with a few lessons) after you’ve been

even when your confidence is through

behaviour, especially when lush green

able to watch your horse in regular work

the floor, there are fortunately a number

grass is abundant. If your horse has

for a while. However, if you’ve done

of things you can try. Firstly, you need

loose, very green bowel movements you

your absolute best and you’re still not

to make sure your horse is comfortable,

can almost guarantee he won’t be acting

loving being in the saddle, then deciding

happy and sane. Horses by nature are

like his normal, sweet self.

to move the horse on is a courageous

So, what to do in these situations? Should

establish a connection again, and find a coach who’ll help you understand your fears and reservations and work through them. Or perhaps you might even prefer

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 33

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Have a coach or an experienced horse person help you choose the right horse (Image by Karina Porter). thing to do: it’s not admitting defeat.

broncing as she landed, she threw me

Ultimately, I rode her just a handful

Like people, horses have different

off. I landed on my feet, but one foot

of times before selling her to another

personalities, and we simply don't all

was slightly turned in and the muffled

experienced rider, with full disclosure.

click with everybody else.

crack was the first indication that I had

Years ago I did a lot of breaking in and

broken my leg. The second indicator

starting. I was working with a particularly

was intense pain when I tried to walk on

tricky mare, the type of horse that would

it! Sitting on the grass wincing, while the

only prolonged the inevitable if I hadn’t

outwardly seem calm while inwardly

horse continued to bronc and buck all

moved her on. It took courage to admit

stressing out, which would eventually

across the paddock, I had no desire to

she wasn’t a horse I wanted to continue

be expressed as a seemingly out-of-

get back on.

to work with, but rather than a ‘I must

nowhere explosion. After weeks of

After my leg was healed I was itching to

conquer this at all costs’ attitude, we

groundwork, mouthing and long-reining,

ride again, and did so as soon as I was

parted ways and were both better for it.

we were a couple of weeks into the

allowed. But I had no real inclination

I continued my equestrian journey with

ridden side of things.

to get back on that mare. I ended up

other horses and have evolved as a

On one particular ride she really didn’t

taking her to another trainer to finish

rider, trainer, and coach.

want to yield to the pressure of the

the starting process with her. I did ride

Many people feel they must keep trying,

right rein. When I pushed the envelope

her while I was at the other trainer’s

and trying, and trying with the view that

further, she went from feeling stubborn

yard – I felt like I had to prove to myself

they’ve given up or failed if they don’t

into full bronc mode! Rearing then

that I could – but I admit I was scared.

continue to slog it out with a horse that’s

34 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

To pursue things with that horse would have done nothing for my confidence and deep down I knew that I would have

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F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Working with a coach is a great way to break through mental barriers (Image by Olivia Salkeld, Snapshot Australia). just not right for them. But this is not how it should be. Horses are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions.

If you find that riding puts you into a state of tension, a sensitive horse may react to this by expressing behaviours you don’t love. This can make you more

Horses are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. If you find that riding puts you into a state of tension, a sensitive horse may react to this by expressing behaviours you don’t love.

apprehensive and the flow-on effect is that the horse gets worse too.

One of the hardest things to do when it comes to horse ownership is admit that it’s time to let go - but in certain situations that’s the best thing for all parties involved. Be truthful with

is the right decision, be up front when

older, or a little smaller. Go for a horse

you rehome it. No horse is perfect, but

that you feel you need to push on a bit,

other riders have to be given the chance

versus one you have to hold back – it

to decide if the horse’s quirks are ones

will do great things for your confidence.

they are willing to put up with. Being straight-up keeps everyone safer.

You don’t need to be a hero and to feel like you need to conquer a particular

yourself: is there pleasure to be gained

When you’re ready to look for your next

individual, there are so many other

from continuing, or are you just feeding

horse remember, temperament trumps

wonderful horses out there. Spend

your ego by refusing to accept that

all, especially when your nerves are a

your saddle time making memories,

maybe this isn’t the perfect match? If you

consideration. Open up your search

laughing and smiling. Go make your

do decide that moving your horse on

parameters, look for something a little

riding fun again.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 37

P

asture often contributes up to 100 per cent of your horse’s daily nutrition, so we should know its

F E AT U R E

nutritional composition before making dietary recommendations and, just as

The key to sound nutrition

important, know whether it’s suitable for your horse. What’s acceptable for a rapidly growing or lactating mare may be completely unsuitable and dangerous for a metabolic affected horse.

The quality and quantity of pasture can change dramatically between seasons, areas and plant species, so it’s important

Knowing what’s in your pasture is key for sound nutrition.

DAVID NASH, Director of Nutrition Technology at Kentucky Equine Research, explains why.

to be aware of what your pasture is doing.

Where to test?

Testing all paddocks is obviously ideal but not always practical. Deciding which

F E AT U R E

paddocks to test can be daunting, but

walk a ‘J’ pattern across the paddock.

a simple method is to assess which

Clip pasture samples into 2-5cm pieces

paddocks are similar in pasture type, soil

and place in a clean bucket.

type and structure, and perhaps stocking density. Grouping these together may give a sufficient representative sample of your paddocks. When sampling, keep away from areas like gateways, stock camps and trees, as generally animals

Step 4: When sampling is completed, mix the samples thoroughly. Place in the labeled sample bag. Continue the process for other paddocks you wish to sample.

defecate around these to give non

Step 5: Try to deliver you samples

representative results.

to the laboratory the same day. If it’s

When to test?

warm, put them in a cooler to reduce

Many large commercial studs have pasture sampling dating back decades with additional information such as fertiliser, herbicide and sowing records. Generally, they will take samples through each season.

This gives a true picture of what the pasture is contributing to the horse’s diet throughout the year, allowing for adjustment to the diet if required especially through summer and spring when pasture nutrient concentration is extremely different.

How to take samples

formulated textured feeds, and pellets at around 8-12% moisture. The same may apply for hay and some dry pasture, with haylage at around 20-30%, and fresh pasture with up to 80% moisture.

So when comparing various ingredients, it’s important to compare the product at the same moisture level. ‘As fed’ pasture may appear less nutrient dense than a specific grass hay, but once you compare them on a dry matter basis, you’ll see that the pasture is actually quite nutrient rich – giving you a better idea as to its suitabilty for your horse.

fermentation. If you can’t get them to the laboratory within one to two days, freeze them overnight and express post to the laboratory the next day. If this is not possible, especially given mail delivery times during the pandemic, drying the pasture before sending will help maintain its integrity. To do this, weigh the pasture sample first, then place in a microwave safe container and microwave for 3-5 minutes or until dry to the touch. Remove from the microwave and weigh the sample again. Record both these results on the laboratory submission forms as it helps laboratory

Taking samples correctly gives a sound

staff establish the pasture’s moisture

representation of what your horse is

content as it stands in the paddock. The

eating. To take pasture samples you will

dry matter results are important, which

need a clean labeled bag, scissors, a

we’ll explain below.

clean bucket and a ruler.

What to look for

Crude Protein: refers to the hay or pasture’s protein content. Calculated by multiplying the amount of Nitrogen present by 6.25, it’s a rather crude way of assessing protein content, but it does give some idea. Some laboratories offer testing for lysine and other amino acids to help assess the quality of the protein.

Higher levels of essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine indicate higher quality. Protein in forage can vary greatly from low single figures in dry cereal straw to a high 20% range for legume hays such as lucerne, or highly productive ryegrass pastures. These results can vary greatly throughout the season, so monitor carefully and make adjustments to the whole diet.

property and paddock name so you

see results in dry matter and ‘as fed’.

know which pasture you’re testing.

‘As fed’ is how pasture is eaten by

Remember, paddocks may be quite

the horse, while dry matter calculates

different in their nutrient content.

nutrients with the moisture taken out. In

Step 2: Determine your horse’s pasture

the same sample, dry matter results will

grazing height by measuring the height

be a lot higher than ‘as fed’. As a rule of

Crude Fat: gives an estimate of the forage’s fat content. Fat analysis results are obtained using near-infrared spectrophotometry (NIR) analysis, or wet chemistry (a process using acid hydrolysis or ether extract techniques).

These may give varied results so for consistency, always ask for the same

of the pasture before and after grazing.

thumb, you would expect to see grains,

technique to be used.

Step 1: Label the bag with the date,

On your lab report, you will most likely

For example, if the height of un-grazed areas is 20cm and the height of the

Diagram 1:

grazed areas is 10cm, then the length of the grazed pasture is between 20cm and 10cm. Thus, pasture samples should

Hay

Hay

Pasture

Pasture

As Fed

Dry Matter

As Fed

Dry Matter

be between 10 and 20cm in length as

Moisture %

10.0

–

80.0

–

this is a representative sample of what

Dry Matter %

90.0

–

20.0

–

the horse is consuming.

DE, Mcal/lb

0.79

0.88

0.23

1.15

Step 3: With scissors or pasture shears,

Crude Protein %

8.1

9.0

4.2

21.0

Calcium %

0.45

0.5

0.16

0.8

Phosphorous %

0.2

0.22

0.07

0.35

take 12 to 20 pasture samples at grazing height across the paddock. Some people like to do that randomly, while others

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 39

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Protein in forage can vary from single figures in dry cereal straw to a high 20% range for legume hays.

Fibre content in forage is extremely important for all horses, more so for horses with metabolic issues. Key fibre fractions to look for are neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF). NDF, which is more digestible for horses, consists of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin but not pectin, while ADF is comprised of cellulose and lignin. When assessing its suitability, forage with an NDF of between 40-50% and an ADF of 30-35% is considered ideal for performance horses, young stock and broodmares with no metabolic or growth issues.

Mature or sedentary horses in little to no work and easy keepers may benefit from forage with slightly higher values.

fibre content that helps maintain gastric

can be digested enzymatically in the

health. Always remember, horses

horse’s small intestine and fructans are

evolved eating low quality roughage in

fermented in the hind gut. You will also

small frequent meals.

commonly see ESC, a subset of WSC,

Forage with NDF levels greater than 65% and ADF levels in excess of 45% will have little nutritional value, but may be an excellent choice for horses with metabolic issues and obesity, as it provides fewer calories but has the

Carbohydrate Levels: are extremely important in assessing forage suitability, and if not carefully attended to can cause major issues for your horse.

Several key factors are non-structural

which represents the simple sugar content of the forage. While fructan levels may not appear on the analysis, you can calculate these by subtracting ESC from WSC.

carbohydrates (NSC), starch, water

Sugar levels can vary between pasture

soluble carbohydrates (WSC), ethanol

species, with the highly bred cultivars of

soluble carbohydrates (ESC) and

ryegrass and fescues at the top of the

fructans, which you may be familiar with,

list, cocksfoot and phalaris in the middle,

especially if you have an EMS, obese or

and native grasses such as kangaroo

laminitic horse.

and wallaby at the lower end.

NSCs are a combination of starch

As plants rely of photosynthesis to

and WSCs. Starches are complex

generate and grow, the forage’s sugar

carbohydrates or sugar molecules

content will depend on the amount and

bonded together in long chains. Starch

duration of sunlight exposure. WSC levels

levels in pasture are generally a lot

in pasture can double from winter to

lower than those found in cereals. WSCs

spring, and from 6:00am to 6:00pm. To

are classed as a combination of simple

limit your horse’s sugar intake, late at night

sugars and fructans. Simple sugars

and early mornings are when pasture

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ABOVE: Pasture acceptable for a lactating mare may be completely unsuitable for a metabolically affected horse. sugar levels may be at their lowest. This

can explain how to take pasture samples

For more information on pasture quality

is also dependent on your pasture: if you

and read the results, and can offer

testing, please visit www.ker.com, or

have highly productive pasture even the

potential pasture improvement solutions

talk to your local agronomist, or a

lower levels of pasture sugar content may

for your farm and horses.

Department of Agriculture field officer.

be too high for your horse.

Mineral Content: is quite important to

Diagram 2: WSC content of pasture throughout the day (Langland, 2007).

ensure your horse’s total diet is balanced.

Many laboratories offer macro and

250

micromineral analysis for minerals such potassium, copper, zinc and manganese.

It’s important to specifically request a chemical analysis for minerals, as NIR analysis does not give reliable results.

There are many aspects to consider when assessing pasture suitability for your horse. Australian agricultural

WSC Content (g/kg DM)

as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium,

200

150

100

50

departments have well trained staff to assist you, and many rural stores have a trained agronomist on staff. At Kentucky Equine Research we have several technical team members who

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S

quelching through waterlogged paddocks is no one’s idea of fun – and it certainly isn’t conducive to

VET VIBES

Hoof health in the wet

the health of your horse’s hooves. Best avoided if possible, wet weather woes include greasy heal, thrush, seedy toe and abscesses.

Abscesses These commonly occur in wet conditions when the hoof becomes soft and a crack develops, or when the horse gets a stone bruise and bacteria get in and cause infection. This can result in severe

Wet, muddy paddocks can spell trouble for horses’ hooves. Veterinarian DR. DOUG ENGLISH discusses some of the most frequently occurring issues.

lameness, and often the owner thinks the horse has a broken leg because the animal can go from sound to non-weight bearing toe pointing in about a half day.

VET VIBES

shoe when presented with a potential

expansion joint and supports circulation

abscess. A nail puller tool is very handy

by pumping blood back up the leg as

for this, but don’t forget to file off the

the horse walks, while at the same time

clinch holding the nail before pulling.

expelling accumulated debris such as

Greasy heel

manure and mud from the crevices on

Greasy Heel is another disease associated with wet conditions and horses with a long feather and white

either side. I disagree with over-paring a normal frog to make it neater – and smaller! Healthy feet in their correct

skin are particularly susceptible.

environment don’t succumb to thrush.

The ailment starts as an infection of

Thrush infectious agents are non-

Dermatophilus congolensis, an organism

specific, but can include organisms

classified in an entirely separate

like the anerobes Bacteroides and

biological class because it is neither a

Fusobacterium which are common in soil.

fungus nor a bacteria.

Treatment: Pare off dead tissue before

Greasy heal presents as crusty scabs

applying topical plus systemic antibiotics

that are difficult to remove, and a

if needed. Either spray or soak the foot

secondary bacterial infection can occur

with a solution of 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of

resulting in a fluid-filled swelling of the

copper sulphate, 750mls vinegar, and

pasterns. The severity of this condition

250mls of water.

varies considerably.

Clean the hoof daily and brush with

Treatment: Mix 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of

a stiff brush, followed by the copper

copper sulphate with 750mls vinegar

sulphate spray or any of the dozens

and 250mls of water, and apply either as

of proprietary hoof medications. In my

hoof soak or spray. Antibiotic injections

opinion, good farriery is key.

may also be necessary. Removing the scabs by hand can be painful, but

Canker

applying coconut oil, almond oil, raw

Although similar to thrush, canker is more

honey, lanoline, albarol oil, or baby

serious because it causes deformities

oil will help soften them, making them

in the hoof horn tissue, particularly the

easier to remove. Scabs protect the

frog. It is also more destructive and

organism, so add tea tree oil to the base

progressive. The cause is unknown but,

oil (1 part per 100mls of oil) to kill the Treatment: The abscess needs to be picked out and drained, then flushed

organism. Leave the oil on for an hour or so before washing off.

and packed with a drawing ointment

Thrush

such as venous turpentine, magnoplasm,

Thrush is a bacterial infection of the

magnoplasm mixed with honey, or

frog with presents as black, sometimes

ichthammol. Often difficult to pinpoint

bloody fluid with a foul odour. In severe

the exact spot, an abscess can be encouraged to ‘mature’ by soaking in a bucket of warm to hot water and applying

cases, the bacteria can reach the dermis, the sensitive tissue beneath the frog, causing pain and lameness.

a poultice. Sometimes it will break out

Severe cases of thrush need to be

over the top of the hoof at the coronary

differentiated from canker, a disease in

band. While poulticing helps, you should

which abnormal frog tissue increases

also ask your vet for antibiotics.

quite rapidly. In comparison, thrush is a

Abscesses are sometimes associated with a close nail in the shoe. Hoof

degenerative disease in which the horn of the frog deteriorates.

testers are often useful in identifying the

A large healthy frog is necessary for

offending nail and I always remove the

healthy hoof function. It acts as an

ABOVE: Abscesses will sometimes break out over the top of the hoof at the coronary band.

LEFT: Waterlogged paddocks are not conducive to the health of your horse’s hooves.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 47

48 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

VET VIBES

Treatment: Canker is not something that can be treated at home. It’s justifies referral to a specialist veterinary hospital, and even then, the possibility of failure should be anticipated.

Keratoma a tumour of the keratin-producing epidermal cells of the inner hoof wall.

It is a benign, keratin-containing soft tissue mass that develops between the hoof wall and distal phalanx. The tumour appears as pearls of cornified tissue all

like thrush, was originally thought to be associated with wet and muddy stables.

There are some studies suggesting that the presence of bovine papilloma virus in canker-affected horses is not coincidental, but indicative of an active contribution to hoof canker disease.

Like equine sarcoid disease, canker is a therapy-resistant disorder characterised by a thickening and discolouration of the tissue, and a marked tendency to recur. There is one hypothesis that canker, essentially an inflammation of the feet and other horny structures, may be caused by an autoimmune reaction and this would tie in with papilloma virus.

Luckily, it is not common.

most dense middle layer) the stratum internum (the nonpigmented inner layer which contains the white line and is responsible for attaching to the hoof wall to the bone).

Although uncommon, keratoma is

ABOVE: Greasy heal presents as crusty scabs that are difficult to remove.

the stratum medium (the largest and

One or all hooves can be affected, regardless of age, sex, or breed, both barefoot and shod. Many horses have hoof separation but do not develop WLD. If left unattended debris accumulates and becomes packed,

over the hoof, but most commonly near

resulting in mechanical separation.

the coronary band.

Treatment: Bacteria and fungi can

Clinical signs usually consist of slowly

potentially colonise the area, which then

progressive lameness due to the

needs to be cut out down to solid horn

underlying tissue mass pressuring the

and filled with a medicated hoof putty,

sensitive laminae.

or a paste that can be made up with the

Treatment: Keratoma requires surgical removal.

WLD and Seedy Toe

likes of Stockholm tar, venous turpentine and copper sulphate. Proper support for the damaged hoof and glue on shoes are an option. Topical disinfectants are of no

White line disease (WLD) frustrates

use without resection of the hoof wall.

veterinarians and farriers because of the

Neoplasia

diversity in terms of its cause, diagnosis and treatment. WLD is a keratinolytic process that originates on the solar surface of the hoof (the bearing edge, bars, sole and frog) which causes

Various neoplastic diseases can occur in horses’ feet, and each is a story in itself.

The list includes keratoma (as described above), sarcoid (which grows in infected

progressive separation of the hoof wall’s

wounds), osteosarcoma in the bone,

inner zone resulting in lameness. Seedy

squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue

toe can be considered to be a less

sarcoma, melanoma, haemangioma, and

While bacterial infection is an inconsistent finding with hoof canker, it can occur as a secondary infection when the barrier

serious form of WLD.

vascular hamartoma. Tumours on the

function of the foot is impaired.

the stratum externum (thin outer layer)

The hoof wall consists of three layers:

equine foot are rare, and unfortunately, apart from sarcoid and keratoma, have a poor prognosis.

ABOVE: Thrush is a degenerative disease of the frog caused by bacterial infection.

ABOVE: Due to the diversity of causes, diagnosis and treatment, WLD and seedy toe can be frustrating to deal with.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 49

H

aving a go-to philosophy is an advantage, and Sharon Jarvis’s is inspiring: “It’s how

F E AT U R E

you carry yourself through the hard times that will keep you going for the

Not if, but when

good times,” she says.

Sharon’s start to riding in country WA was a far cry from the prestige of an international arena. Obsessed with horses, she was forever trying to climb

Three-time Paralympian Sharon Jarvis’s fighting spirit has helped her overcome many challenges throughout her career. She talks to ENYA CROCKFORD about her battles and her triumphs.

up the legs of her older siblings’ ponies so she could ride. Eventually her parents yielded to her nagging and bought her a pony when she was five. “I’m not sure how we survived,” she laughs. “We had

F E AT U R E

Celebrating a Champion Grade Four win with Romanos at the 2020 Boneo Park CDI 3* (Image by Victoria Davies).

causing numerous complications – not

the furthest thing from her mind. “I had

the least of which was that to protect

dreamt of representing Australia, but I

her leg from further fracture, she wasn’t

was just this kid from the country with a

allowed to ride. “My parents sold my

crazy idea.” Not so crazy as it turned out.

pony and tried to get me to do other sports to take my mind off horses. But I never, ever, gave up hope that I would one day ride,” Sharon says. “I asked the doctor at every visit, and eventually he said, ‘You’re so persistent, I just can’t keep saying no’. I’ll forever remember the day I got back on a horse as being one of the happiest of my life.”

It’s how you carry yourself through the hard times that will keep you going for the good times.

Sharon was approached by paraplegic equestrian Mary Ipkendanz, who asked whether she had considered the Paralympics. “It was a shock as I’d never thought of myself as having a disability. But then I was very excited, realising I had an incredible opportunity to compete in the sport I love while representing the country I love.”

Sharon describes her decision to chase her dream as “the beginning of the whirlwind.” By the following year she was in the UK with a borrowed horse, competing at the first ever World Para Dressage Championships. Not only did she achieve two top 10 placings, she also found Applewood Odorado, who would become her horse for Beijing.

Sharon and ‘Odie’ only had six weeks to get acquainted before the first selection event. “I look back and think I had no

But being back in the saddle came with

idea what I was doing, but we placed

its share of challenges. “I hadn’t realised

fourth, fifth and seventh at Beijing. It still

how fearful I’d be about falling off and

blows my mind what we managed to pull

breaking my leg again. So I decided

off,” she laughs.

that the better I learned to ride, the less chance I had of falling off,” Sharon tells me. “I just wanted to be the best I could be. My coaches taught me to ride as an able bodied person – making the most

At the 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG), they improved on their impressive Beijing result with bronze medals in both the Individual and Freestyle competitions.

That accomplishment was made

the wrong horse, the wrong gear, and we used the cattle crate on the back of the farm truck to get to Pony Club. But they were such fun times for us as a family.”

of what I had. It didn’t matter that one

Two years later, Sharon’s life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma, a relatively rare bone cancer. Her leg was to be amputated and she was given only a twenty per cent chance of survival.

Fortunately, her doctor conferred with a top specialist in the United States, and her leg, although it lost much of its function, was saved.

horse go as correctly as possible.”

However, weakened by radiotherapy, she broke the same leg a year later,

In 2006 Sharon was competing up to

absolute highs and devastating lows. The

Medium dressage, with the Paralympics

withdrawal from London was crushing,”

leg was weaker than the other and my hips weren’t straight. I learned how to sit as straight as I could and make the

Pony Club also provided invaluable support to Sharon during her teenage years. “School wasn’t a pleasant time for me, but in Pony Club I found my people.

I was surrounded by some amazing friends who were so caring and giving, and helped to forge me into the rider and person I am today.”

bittersweet by the sudden passing of Sharon’s father: “He had been my biggest supporter and taught me to work hard and follow my passion. It was a pretty rough road to the Games and it made those bronze medals even more special.”

The following years threw plenty of obstacles in Sharon’s path, but she drew on the determination and resilience she’d built earlier in life. Horse injuries forced her to withdraw from contention for both the London Olympics and WEG 2014. “The sport is such a rollercoaster of

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 51

F E AT U R E

Ryan, Sharon’s coach, could ride and train the mare. Sharon managed a fiveminute ride at the end of each training session before going straight into the selection competition. After six trips across the Nullarbor during the selection process, Sharon was relived to make it to Rio. “It was a pretty crazy time but we made it happen,” she says, in what sounds like a major understatement.

In 2017 Sharon decided to base herself with Rozzie full time. “The motivation is amazing. Riders are there because they want to be the best they can be, and you have so many performance horses going through every day. I thrive in that environment,” she adds.

At the time she was campaigning her stallion Lord Larmarque, owned by Jade and Chris Edwards and Alan Moody, towards Tokyo. Unfortunately he sustained an injury in 2019 and Sharon once again found herself horseless.

“After uprooting everything and working such long hours, I felt exhausted. I didn’t have the finances, and just needed to head home,” Sharon recalls.

This time it was Rozzie who stepped in and refused to let her give up, suggesting she should put the word out on Facebook to see if anyone could loan her a horse for Tokyo. To Sharon’s ABOVE: Sharon with Rozzie Ryan and Romanos at Ryans Equestrian Centre (Image courtesy Sharon Jarvis).

amazement she was flooded with offers, and found her unicorn in Romanos, a 19-year-old gelding from Queensland.

she tells me, “but my horse had given me

and she was able to purchase Ceasy,

“He’s a great character, he just tried so

everything and I owed it to him to do the

her talented but quirky KWPN mare.

hard,” she enthuses. “We had to get to

right thing by him. You have a cry, you pick yourself up, and you go again.”

But more challenges were to come.

Several months after Ceasy’s arrival

know each other, and he had to learn to listen to my whips, but he really stepped up to the plate.”

All equestrians know the financial

Sharon fractured her leg once again and

challenges of staying competitive, but

it refused to heal, meaning she needed

Sharon made history at Tokyo as the

for para-equestrians it’s especially

surgery just six weeks before the first

first Para-equestrian rider to compete

difficult. “We don’t attract owners the

Rio Paralympic selection trial. When her

in three Paralympic Games. She and

same way able bodied riders do, so it’s

doctors told her there was no guarantee

Romanos came 10th in the individual

difficult to keep longevity in our sport,”

she would ever get back on a horse, in her

competition and were part Australian

Sharon explains.

typical determined style she said: “That’s

team that placed 13th.

Fortunately, in 2014 Equestrian Australia

fine. I don’t do ‘if’, I do ‘when’.”

After the stress of campaigning, Sharon

approached her regarding the Winning

Following her surgery, a friend drove

had told herself Tokyo would be

Edge program, a syndicate was created,

Ceasy to New South Wales so Rozzie

her last games, but a less than ideal

52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 53

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F E AT U R E

homecoming changed her mind. Six weeks after returning to Australia she underwent yet more surgery, followed by an emergency surgery ten days later.

“I think the universe was reminding me I love my sport, I love representing my country, and not to give up that opportunity just yet. I’d missed out on that Paralympic medal, but we’d now discovered a lot of things that were going on with my body, and I think it will make it easier to ride better,” she says.

“At the end of the day I love inspiring people to follow their dreams, and I think I do that best when I sit on a horse.”

ABOVE: With brown unicorn Romanos, Sharon made history in Tokyo as the first Australian Para-equestrian rider to compete in three Paralympic Games (Image by Jon Stroud).

LEFT: Lord Larmarque and Sharon in 2019 competing at Alexandra Park Dressage (Image by Emily Stoddart).

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55

W

ith the autumn showing season in full swing, it’s hard not to be glamoured

by the glossy coats, perfect plaits, finely

NUTRITION

cut jackets and magnificent garlands, while overlooking the cresty necks,

Obesity in the show ring

lumpy tailheads, and rotund barrels. Yes, some of these highly manicured show ring winners are actually obese, which is worrying for veterinarians, nutritionists and horse owners alike.

Horse obesity is a worldwide problem and researchers believe it should be considered the most important welfare challenge affecting equines in western countries. Studies show approximately

With the trend towards overly conditioned show horses and ponies on the rise, equine nutritionist DR CLARISSA BROWN-DOUGLAS explains why bigger is not better.

one-fifth to one-half of horses are categorised as obese. A study of 96 horses conducted by researchers in the UK confirmed the equine obesity epidemic, finding 35 per cent of the

NUTRITION

Researchers have established a correlation between insulin resistance and high cresty neck scores.

LEFT: Owners’ perceptions of acceptable body weight are often skewed due to a high prevalence of obese horses and ponies.

research group scored 3.5 out of 5

Laminitis, an inflammatory disease

permanently to one side and possibly

on the body condition score (BCS)

affecting the hooves, is probably the

collapsed. Researchers have established

scale. Certain breeds are more at risk,

most distressing outcome of obesity

a correlation between insulin resistance

including native pony breeds, Morgans,

often resulting in euthanasia. Horses

and horses with cresty neck scores

Iberian, and draft-type horses.

that exhibit these factors (obesity and

of three and above. It goes without

ID) are described as having Equine

saying that cresty necks and show ring

Metabolic Syndrome, or EMS. Horses

champions frequently go hand in hand.

So, what’s wrong with an overly padded pony? For starters, obese horses are at risk of insulin dysregulation (ID). ID refers to various abnormalities in insulin metabolism, including abnormally high

with EMS characteristically show lumpy fat deposits in the neck area (cresty neck) and also around the tailhead and

In addition to metabolic issues, overweight and obese horses are at risk of

behind the shoulder.

osteoarthritis and other injuries associated

(IR). These conditions occur when the

Over the years, researchers have

horse’s body fails to respond to insulin

focussed on cresty necks due to a

Bone and joint problems can be a source

as it normally would, causing increased

correlation between the degree of fat

insulin in the bloodstream. As a result,

deposition, neck thickness, and insulin

more sugar remains in circulation rather

resistance. In a similar way to body

These conditions are serious, and it

than being taken up by cells and used

condition scoring, a cresty neck score

makes for a difficult path for horse

for energy. Over time, the high insulin

(CNS) is assigned to determine the

owners to navigate when many horses

and sugar levels negatively impact the

risk of IR. A score of zero describes a

and ponies with dangerous levels of

horse’s overall health making them at

neck with no crest, and a score of five

adiposity are rewarded in the ring. Horse

significant risk of laminitis.

describes a massive crest that has shifted

owners want the best for their horses

circulating insulin and insulin resistance

with carrying too much body condition. of chronic pain, and limit the use of the horse, even if only ridden recreationally.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 57

NUTRITION

ABOVE: It’s hard to resist those beautiful eyes while we mix the feeds, but extra scoops and treats can add up. and will often feed too many calories

professional experience and their opinion

About 95 per cent of the judges indicated

thinking they are doing the right thing.

on body condition, making special note of

that having too great or too little fat

We all know how hard it is to resist

consequences they assign when presented

covering compromises an animal’s score

those beautiful eyes watching us while

with thin or obese horses. Respondents

in competition. However, they admitted

we mix the feeds, but the extra scoops

were highly skilled, with almost half having

they were more likely to penalise a horse

and treats can add up. Furthermore,

more than 20 years judging experience. As

or pony if they deemed it too thin rather

owners’ perceptions of acceptable body

part of the survey, they were sent 13 photos

than too fat. In other words, they were

weight are understandably skewed

of horses to categorise as thin, average,

more accepting of extra body weight.

due to a high prevalence of obese

overweight, or obese.

Some judges also suggested they were

horses and ponies. Interestingly, in the horse world, it seems to be more acceptable to comment on underweight horses than bring up the welfare issues of overweight horses, which may mirror sensitivities in human weight perceptions. Obese horses presented at shows are much more common than underweight horses.

But it’s not just horse owners who struggle to determine ‘normal’ body condition, according to a recent study, some industry professionals, including show judges, have difficulty recognising adiposity.

Researchers at North Carolina State University recently surveyed 211 show hunter judges to determine their 58 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

Obese horses are at risk of a number of ailments including insulin dysregulation and laminitis.

NUTRITION

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60 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

NUTRITION

Studies show approximately one-fifth to one-half of horses are categorised as obese.

help them recognise the benefits of a healthy body condition.

The main strategies that owners can adopt to achieve a healthy body condition is to provide a diet and exercise program tailored to each individual horse, as well as understanding the risk factors associated with obesity, so that metabolic health conditions in the horse can be prevented. These include regular weighing (using scales or a weight tape) and body condition scoring, and working with an equine nutritionist to provide a balanced and safe diet.

For overweight horses and ponies, limiting pasture intake and feeding a low-calorie, low-sugar (tested below 10 per cent for non-structural carbohydrates [NSC]), high fibre forage, balanced with a well formulated vitamin and mineral supplement plus salt, is a perfect diet for weight control.

Other methods for reducing calorie consumption are a grazing muzzle to limit pasture intake, soaking and rinsing hay (especially if it has not been tested for NSC), and using a slow feeder hay

more accepting of extra fat coverage on

cent) did request additional

net. In addition, regular exercise is vital

a pony than on a horse.

educational materials and concrete

to boost the horse’s metabolic rate,

The 13 photos presented to the judges

guidelines for assessing fat coverage

which in turn can support weight control.

included five obese, three overweight,

in horses and ponies.

Equine nutritionists often report that

two average, and three thin horses,

But it’s not all doom and gloom! Many in

as classified by experts. While a

the horse industry are focused on horse

minority of judges correctly identified

owner education so that ballooning

the obese horses, most indicated that

weight is managed appropriately before

these were simply overweight. The majority of judges also identified the three overweight horses as average.

In the same vein, average horses were subsequently, and therefore incorrectly, viewed as thin by most judges.

it negatively affects the health and welfare of their steeds. In fact, a recent

diet for rapid weight loss, often to the point of not feeding the horse sufficient roughage for optimal gastrointestinal health, while completely ignoring the benefits of exercise.

program in the UK run by The Horse

So, where to from here? Hopefully

Trust and behaviour change scientists

the chatter surrounding the major

at Liverpool University has rewarded

health risks associated with obese

ideal body condition in show horses with

These data show that not only are

a series of awards presented at horse

judges less able to identify average

shows. The program works with local

- and therefore healthy – horses, but

on-site veterinarians and judges to score

average horses incorrectly viewed as

the horses in the classes, awarding a

thin receive harsher penalties than those

prize to the horse deemed to have the

that are overweight or obese.

horse owners are quick to modify the

horses within the showing industry will gain volume, resulting in changes to the perceived ideal for show horse condition, and with owners rewarded for presenting their horses at a healthier body weight.

healthiest body condition. In addition to

Formulate your horse's diet with

On the upside, at the conclusion of the

the awards, the program aims to provide

Barastoc’s free diet analysis.

survey the majority of judges (64 per

advice to horse owners and riders to

Visit barastochorse.com.au W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61

Today it’s the biggest ticketed event in Australia, and one of the largest in the world. And when it comes to horses,

F E AT U R E

It’s show time

it’s a premier show on the equestrian calendar. To win a ribbon at the Royal is the dream of many a young rider, and for seasoned showies it’s the event they strive to qualify for every year.

John Bennett OAM is Vice-President of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW

Rich in tradition, the iconic Sydney Royal Easter Show has attracted generations of visitors and this year commemorates the RAS 200th birthday, writes SUZY JARRATT.

I

(RAS), and chairman of the show’s Horse Committee. He spoke to us about the early days and highlighted some of the events and presentations planned for the various arenas at Homebush Bay:

n the early 1800s, the Sydney

and manufacturers could display their

“The RAS’s very first horse show was in

Royal Easter Show was created to

goods and compete with their livestock.

1823. Horses, mostly Thoroughbreds,

encourage livestock production

had just arrived in the colony and there Over time, other attractions such as

was a prize for the best colonial bred

forum for early European settlers to

wood chopping, boxing tents, show

stallion, which became a much-coveted

share their farming practices. It swiftly

bags, a duck fashion show, and carnival

award. Then the tall ships brought

developed into a venue where growers

rides added to the show’s popularity.

horses with slightly bigger bone better

within the colony, and to provide a

62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

suited to put to the plough,” he explains.

“Several decades later show organisers introduced different equestrian sports such as high jump, steeplechasing and hunting classes which morphed into the show jumping events we have today.”

Olympian Vicki Roycroft has supported these events for many years: “I first jumped in the junior classes when I was 13. Good grief, that was fifty-five years ago! I’ve gone to almost every Royal since then apart from when I was competing overseas. It is, and always has been, Australia’s premier country show.”

In 1998, after 116 years at Moore Park, the event moved to new grounds within Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush, and Vicki can’t speak highly enough of these facilities: “They’re spectacular, the

John points out that although it’s the

we decided to hold some fancy dress

footing’s superb and you can ride out

RAS’s 200th birthday, it isn’t their two

events which we haven’t done for quite

on nearby trails. There are many classes

hundredth show. “We missed a few over

a few years.”

to enter, prize money’s always excellent

the years due to droughts, plagues,

and there’s an entertainment six-bar

There’re two fancy dress classes

wars, and of course COVID. There

which is a great crowd pleaser.”

for children: one for the six to under

wasn’t a show in 2020, but in 2021

twelves, and another for the twelve to

This popular event was pioneered by

we were successful in managing the

under fifteens. The first prize will be

John Bennett, who, given his equestrian

pandemic. In order to cope with social

awarded to the fancy dress which best

heritage, is well suited to head up the

distancing requirements we stood down

depicts the show’s 200th birthday. The

Horse Committee. John’s father is Merv

a few events such as team penning and

classes are free to enter, and each has

Bennett OAM, a member of Australia’s

horseball, which remain unscheduled

a $250 prize – but you’ll have to hurry,

1976 Montreal Olympics bronze-winning

for 2022. However, we have brought

entries close on April 13.

eventing team.

back the Shetland in light harness. And

Rodeo, campdrafting and tent pegging have always been crowd favourites, despite some city folk not always understanding the rules. There’s also a mistaken idea that tent pegging has to do with gnarly old bushies, when its origins can be traced back to an old military tactic used during predawn raids on enemy camps. Mounted FACING PAGE: The 2019 Col A V Pope Silver Cup Perpetual Trophy was won by Kaitlin Labahn-Meyland aboard the magnificent Rolex II (Image by Steve Markham).

ABOVE: High jump, steeplechasing and hunting classes morphed into today’s show jumping events (Image courtesy of the RAS of NSW).

LEFT: Future equestrian talent lined up in the 1939 Juvenile Riders parade (Image courtesy of the RAS of NSW).

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 63

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Australian Stock Horses have long been much loved participants at the Sydney Royal (Image by Stephen Mowbray).

soldiers would ride through the camp

These events will be held before the

John assures me that reactions from

and remove tent pegs with the tips of

evening rodeo in the main arena, where,

the stabled horses are very mild. “When

their spears, causing chaos as the tents

John Bennett tells me, the committee

I was ringmaster for all those years, I

collapsed on their sleeping occupants.

has scheduled some wonderful

found that by Day Three the horses

These days many peggers are young,

entertainment: “We have motor bikes,

would be sound asleep in their stalls.”

racing cars, and circus performers. Then

Competing at the Sydney Royal is

there’s some country entertainment

obviously tiring!

keen-eyed horsemen and women atop fast, smart horses.

in the form of the Bandy & Johnson

And unlike the show’s former Moore

Mike Rowland from NSW rides with the

Working Draught Horse Team as they

Light Horses team and commentates

pull wool wagons. This was very popular

on the sport at the Easter Show: “It was

last year when they had a team of nine

brought to Australia by Light Horse

horses, but this year they’re hoping

troops returning from the Boer War. It

to bring 18. Other varieties of animals

grew as an important training tool for

including bullocks and donkeys in

the troops and their mounts, and after

harness will be joining them.”

the First World War it was adopted by

John, who was the show’s ringmaster

the NSW Mounted Police for training

for six years, adds that camels will be

exercises,” he explains. “The current

pulling some vehicles, as well as being

trophy for the Teams Challenge, the

represented in the dairy section, where

Golden Livermore Lance, was first

camel cheese will be on display.

presented in 1969 in honour of Sargent

Fireworks create a glittering finale to

main arena safely. Generally mounted on

Ron Livermore, the then retiring

each night’s entertainment, but despite

Australian Stock Horses, the riders have

commander of the NSW Mounted Police.”

the bangs, cracks, flares and flashes,

always been male – until now. “We’re

64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

Park site, the Homebush firework display is a long way from the animals. “I know many people miss the old showground but it had problems that would have been much too expensive to rectify,” John adds.

Changes, updates and improvements are inevitable even when it comes to one of the most traditional aspects of the show – the Green Coats. These mounted stewards ensure horse events run smoothly and that competitors leave the

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Immaculately turned out horses in harness are a reminder of the Royal Easter Show’s remarkable history (Image by Steve Markham). moving with the times,” John declares,

from people who like the formality of it. It’s

everybody. Those living within 100

“my tip is that before long you’ll be

been the rule for 100 years and there’s no

kilometres of the grounds can have a

seeing a female Green Coat!”

chance of it ever changing.”

day stable and leave after their event

Another tweak to tradition is the Miss

However, that doesn’t stop the show

Showgirl competition. It began in 1962

from going forward in leaps and bounds,

With so many great events and exhibits

when former Hollywood screen idol

and John sees excitement and optimism

to enjoy, who would want to miss the

Jane Russell presented £250, a sash,

everywhere: “There’s increased

RAS 200th anniversary at the 2022 Sydney Royal? Your favourite breed,

and a silver tray to Miss Margaret Mackay, daughter of Horse Committee chairman, Ken Mackay. “This year the competition will officially become The Sydney Royal Young Woman of the Year,” John tells me, “which resonates much better and reflects the importance of the role. It opens up the opportunity

The show will go on, there’s no question about it – the future is bright.

for young women to enter from any occupation that has a link to rural, regional and remote NSW.”

on that day.”

hacks, leading rein, riding, Pony Club, campdrafting and show jumping classes have attracted some of Australia’s finest horses and riders – and John can confidently assure exhibitors and visitors alike that his Committee is determined to ensure that the RAS horse section flourishes: “The show will go on, there’s no question

enthusiasm from horse exhibitors and

about it – the future is bright.”

spectators, in fact from all sections

However, there is one thing that will never

of the show. Horse entries closed in

Interested to know more? Visit

change – the dress code for the main

the middle of December last year and

eastershow.com.au, or for a glimpse

arena: “You cannot be in there without a

we’ve received an enormous response.

back in time rasnsw.com.au/heritage/

hat,” John says. “We get a lot of feedback

The challenge will be to accommodate

virtual-museum/collection W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65

TAC K E D U P

Getting to grips with girths Pt 2 In the final of this series, expert saddle fitter KATHRYN SULLIVAN-BUTT explores girths and correct girth point selection for English saddles.

I

n our previous issue, we discussed

Horse biomechanics – high behind,

the vast array of shaped and anatomical girths that have

exploded onto the equestrian market as riders and their saddle fitters

hip hitch motion for example Conversely saddles can often slip backwards for the following reasons:

endeavour to address some of the

Saddle gullet too wide

common problems of excessive saddle

Rear saddle panels too shallow/ lack

movement, pinching behind the elbow, and girth galls.

of panel support in front Horse anatomy – e.g. high wither,

The most commonly used shaped girth

atrophy in trapezius region, rearward

is often referred to as forward facing.

girth groove with greyhound-like rise

Rearward facing girths are also available

of belly to the rear

but are less common. A quality shaped girth is a good investment for you and your horse if it aids good saddlefit, so

Wrong saddle tree shape for horse Girth point alignment too far forward/

A forward shaped girth on a dressage horse with a forward girth groove, cut to allow more freedom behind the elbow.

excessive pull on point strap

it’s worth discussing them in a little more detail to understand how they work.

Horse and rider biomechanics

forward (A), standard (B), or rearward (C)

Saddles shifting forward can occur for

Whilst all of the above are the most

location (see Image 1).

many reasons which include, but are not

common reasons, they are certainly not

limited to:

The girth’s tendency to drift to the

the only reasons for forward or back

horse’s narrowest circumference

Saddle gullet too narrow

saddle slip. Furthermore, a combination

(the girth groove) will usually happen

of several factors can often obscure the

regardless of how tight the horse is

overriding reason for saddle shift. In

inappropriate panel shape for horse

girthed up – in fact the tighter the

this article our focus is on correct girth

girth, the more likely it is to shift to an

Horse anatomy, such as croup high,

and girth point selection to assist with

area with less pressure (where the

barrel shaped torso, forward girth

saddle stability.

circumference is less) as the horse

groove often accompanied by drop belly

Anatomy and girth groove location

moves. Excessive tightening of the girth

When saddling a horse the girth will

to move and breath freely and may lead

gravitate to the part of the belly where

to saddling issues over time. Given that

the girth groove is situated, usually the

the girth is firmly attached to the saddle,

narrowest area. Horses may have wide

the shift forward or back to the girth

or narrow girth grooves with either a

groove will often pull the saddle with it,

Rear saddle panels too deep/

Wrong saddle tree shape for horse Girth point alignment too far back/ excessive pull on rear girth point Rider pushing the saddle forward with pelvic motion

66 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

is also detrimental to the horse’s ability

leading to the saddle becoming poorly

girth points to drop down vertically so

placed for optimum horse comfort, and

that a straight girth is usually sufficient

sliding out of balance for the rider.

(see Image 2).

Girth point configuration

Many saddles, like the jump saddle in

Fortunately, many horses have a

Image 3, have girthing arrangements

standard girth alignment, allowing the

that allow for the girth to be positioned

forward (A) for horses with a forward girth groove where the saddle might otherwise be pulled forward, or rearward (B) for horses with a girth groove positioned further back. Note also that this jump saddle’s front point strap comes from point of the tree.

Image 1 W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 67

TAC K E D U P

Forward and rearward girths With the recent explosion of shaped girths, many riders have begun using them – sometimes with good reason, and other times because their best friend bought one. Essentially the idea of a shaped girth is to accommodate various girth groove alignments and to help prevent saddles from shifting forward or back. Shaping at the elbow may also relieve pinching behind the elbow where loose skin and girth galls can be an issue.

Wide or narrow gauge girths should mirror the width of the girth groove.

The girths in Image 5 are from left to right: two short dressage girths – a standard anatomic shape and a forward cut girth; and two long jumping girths, a standard anatomic and a rearward shaped girth.

They are an example of how girths are shaped to curve and nestle into the various girth groove alignments.

It’s no mistake that I chose a rearward facing girth to illustrate a jump girth and a dressage girth as the forward example, as it has been my experience that often eventing and speedy athletic breeds such as Thoroughbreds are more likely to have a rear girth groove, while show ponies and Warmbloods often have a

Image 2

forward girth groove.

In Image 4, dressage saddle A is buckled

It may be possible to have the girth

However, physics tells us that the pull

up for a horse with a more standard or

points adjusted on a saddle to ensure

force of the girth acts in a straight line

rearward girth groove, while saddle B

they align better with the shape of your

(not around the curves of the girth) so

is buckled for a horse requiring a point

horse’s girth groove. However, this is a

strap to assist with the prevention of

question for your saddle fitter as in many

forward movement (useful for horses with a forward girth groove, those who are mutton shouldered, or for wider shapes such as round pony). Note also that while

cases if the shape of the panel or tree

material that does not buckle, pinch, warp and increase pressure at the front or rear of the girth. Girths with sternum support

is wrong then no amount of adjusting

and two independent buckles that can

the girth point configuration will be

be done up at different heights – such

successful for saddle stability.

as the H girth (Image 6) – may also assist

the two rear girth points can be used in combination (A), using both front points with a forward girth groove will lead to instability and swing at the rear of the saddle. This can be prevented by using the front and rear points (B).

Other than where the girth sits, everything else remains the same.

a shaped girth should be made of firm

Image 3

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TAC K E D U P

with variations in the horse’s anatomy.

This allows the girth points to hang vertically, providing a more consistent downward force and thus saddle stability.

Sternum support is increasingly seen to take pressure from the sides of the girth where forces are often greatest.

With so many girths on the market, and each having a slight variation in shape, finding the right one for you and your horse can be very hit and miss. Knowing your horse’s girth groove configuration, elbow room and so on will help you start to shortlist options. However, nothing beats trying the girth first to ensure your horse likes it. If you have a friend raving about their girth ask if you can try it (but clean thoroughly before and after trial to remove potential contaminants), or talk to your saddle fitter and with your next saddle fitting book in for a girth assessment.

Most qualified fitters will have a good selection of girths to try or purchase and they will be able to shortlist according

Image 4 I will change it, but a refit is a great time to check the saddle and to see how a girth can make things even better.

on pressure are showing different force

Ultimately the horse has the final say on what they like, and while new studies

as well as the science.

analysis with varying girths, we do need to consider the feedback from our horse

to your horse’s requirements. When fitting, I personally prefer not to change a girth when the rider is purchasing a new saddle, as it introduces another set of variables into the fit making it difficult to assess whether the horse really likes the saddle change, or is it the girth they prefer? If a girth is truly unsuitable then

Image 5

Image 6 W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 69

F E AT U R E

T

he perfect show horse could be described as the Elle MacPherson or Claudia Schiffer

F E AT U R E

of the equine world: beautiful, eye catching, and with that unmistakable

Runway ready

‘wow’ factor.

And that’s what show horse champion Paul Austin looks for when he’s searching for his next top ‘model’. “It needs to have a pretty head, a good length of rein, be able to move well and

Renowned for his extensive showing knowledge, Paul Austin’s name is synonymous with the show ring.

He talks to CHRISTINE ARMISHAW about some of the secrets behind his success.

cover ground, but it’s got to have a brain as well. A great temperament is number one, but you still need quality to have an amazing show horse,” Paul tells me, and having consistently taken unbroken or green horses right up through the ranks

F E AT U R E

to wins and Champions at Royal Show level, he should know.

Paul, who has been riding since he was nine, started out doing everything from Pony Club, games and dressage, to hunting and eventing, before gravitating to showing. As more and more of his clients requested his expertise in that field, the die was cast. In fact, he made the big move from Victoria to Queensland after a client regularly flew him up for coaching lessons, show preparation and horse shopping.

“After coming up so often to do all that teaching and coaching, I decided to move. I love it up here. The weather is great, it’s really good for working horses compared to Melbourne’s four seasons in one day,” he says.

While he lived in Melbourne Paul trained in dressage with Olympian Mary Hanna, a discipline he believes gives a solid foundation for success in the show ring.

“To switch into showing mode, I just add a bit of bling; a browband, the make-up, some patterns, and off we go!”

Paul takes a team of his own and his clients’ horses and travels up and down the east coast of Australia attending all the major Royal and Grand National shows in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Adelaide, as well as many others in between. The show horse life has Paul out on the road showing, travelling and teaching for weeks on end before coming home to pick up the next string

ABOVE: Paul with Dunelm Last Dance, twice Grand National winning Lead Rein Pony (Image by SWD Images).

LEFT: Lisa and Courtney Bird’s Marquise was difficult at first but won at Royals all the way through to Runner Up at the Grand Nationals (Image by Bridey Lee Photography).

Paul likens the approach to a well-oiled

preparing for that show coming up in

With around twenty horses at his property in Tamborine, Paul says he and his team are always busy. A handful of horses are turned out spelling and the other sixteen are in full work and treated like movie stars: “Our horses are out in their own paddocks during the day and brought in at night, which helps rest the paddocks. They’re turned out for breakfast and rug layers are taken off according to temperature. Most horses are worked Monday to Friday, with my two wonderful grooms each tacking up a horse for me to ride, then ungearing, hosing and re-rugging after the horse

eight weeks or so, not just for today.”

has been worked.”

a longer day, which, combined with

of horses and heading off again.

Preparation is a lifestyle Paul explains that to be successful, preparation should begin long before the event if you want to have your horse looking their very best: “Our horses are surveyed every day and assessed for body condition. Do they need more feed? Do they need less? Do they need a different rug on because it’s rubbing?

Are they happy in that paddock? Are they eating properly? You’ve got to keep on top of it. You’re looking ahead,

production line: “Each horse has its tail brushed regularly, has hoof oil applied three times per week, and gets washed once a week, as do their cotton rugs,” he tells me, emphasising the point that meticulous routine is essential to successful show preparation.

In the evenings the horses are fed dinner and rugged. Each one is treated as an individual, with a feed and rugging regime to suit. “The horses come back into the stable under lights so they have

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 71

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: From a family of Grand National Winners, Dicavalli Royal Gabriella showed her winning style from very early on (Image by Julie Wilson Photography). correct rugging, means their hair stays

As you might expect, looks are very

over the back, and it’s like a broken

shorter and they have better coats. While

important in the show ring. But Paul,

bridge. We work our horses so they gain

inside, there are fans on when it’s warm

who also judges show horses, says the

strength and muscle over the back,” he

because we don’t want them to get so

ratio is about sixty per cent beauty to

explains, “they’re fit from being worked

forty per cent workout and movement.

every week day, plus we mix it up with

The way the horse moves is crucial to

pole work and go out on trail rides too.”

hot that they sweat,” Paul explains. “Our horses only have on one neck rug or hood, otherwise there’s too much weight on the neck, which can rub out the mane.

achieving a great result, and he has a specific training system that encourages his horses to develop into the ideal

Plus there’s a risk that if multiple hoods are used, one of the layers can get pulled over the horse’s eyes.”

Work it Aside from working a multitude of horses, Paul also fits in a daily gym session to keep himself in shape, then keeps going until dusk teaching his many regular clients. When he’s not at home, he regularly coaches throughout

You’ve got to prepare plenty of weeks ahead to have your horse looking schmick. show horse shape. “We work our horses as low as we can while still holding a

Paul tells me that the week before a show, the horse’s workload is lightened to around fifteen minutes a day, so when they arrive at the venue it doesn’t take much to get them settled and ready to perform. “At the big shows like the Royals, there’s a lot of atmosphere. Ferris wheels, motorbikes, there’s everything going on, which is a lot to take in and the horse can get a bit tense. So, if they need a bit of work to settle, it’s better to have them not quite as fit as usual. Otherwise it takes longer to work a horse down before heading into the ring.”

Australia and New Zealand, teaching

contact. You see a lot of horses out

dressage as well as good basic riding

there competing that are very hollow in

Showing tips to live by

techniques such as using the legs and

the back and not engaging and using

With such a wealth of knowledge at his

seat instead of relying on the hands.

their back end. They’re very soft or weak

fingertips, it’s hard to pin down just a few W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 73

EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE

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Stockist info page 108.

74 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

key points, but Paul is happy to share his best advice for anyone wanting to get into the world of showing and do well.

Perhaps most important is to plan and prepare everything you do. You’re not going to get there overnight, you’re on a journey. So give your horse plenty of time and adequately prepare them.

“You’ve got to prepare plenty of weeks ahead to have your horse looking schmick,” Paul says. “A lot of people take their horses out when they’re not ready. You need condition, you need top line, you need everything built together to make that picture perfect show horse.”

Next point to ponder, don’t over face yourself or your horse. When you get a new horse, allow at least six weeks for you to get to know each other before heading out to a show and, as with any horse, make sure it’s going well in training first. In Paul’s expert opinion: “If you’re not getting the correct lead, or your horse isn’t going well at home, it’s not ready to take out to a show.”

And finally, make sure your number one accessory is your horse. “You’ll see the girl who rocks up to the show who’s got the red browband on the horse and she’s carrying a red cane. She’ll have a red tie, along with a red collar on her jacket, be wearing red pumps and she’ll have red gloves on too. And do you know what?” Paul gives a wry chuckle, “the focus is on her, not on her horse, and it should always be on the horse.

Go back to basics, follow tradition. A lot of people try to bling it up too much, but remember, less is more.”

For more information, visit paulaustinequitation.com.au – and you can take a sneak peek at one of Paul’s lessons over in the Equestrian Hub VIP area.

TOP: The magnificent Dicavalli Rory, a multi Royal and National winner, owned and adored by The Lovell Family (Image courtesy Paul Austin Equitation).

BOTTOM: Paul bought Pandemonium for a client and produced him all the way through to National Champion Large Hack (Image by Angie Rickard Photography).

Buckskin is the result of the cream gene acting on a bay horse.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 75

STRIDE

IT RIGHT!

Shannon Kelly & Starwatch R (Tazzie Eggins Photography)

NRG STRIDE Hoof Dressing Nourishes hooves naturally and stays on longer.

76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

For more information visit nrgteam.com.au

EUROPEAN TRENDS

Getting smart There are many situations in which an around-the-clock watch on horses is useful, and now monitoring has never been easier, writes JESSICA MORTON.

S

ABOVE: The NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™

imply put, NIGHTWATCH® is an

send on-demand information via a

How it works

equine distress and wellness

specially created app. Owners can log

The NIGHTWATCH® is a battery powered

monitor built into a breakaway

into their phone at any hour to monitor

device installed on either a breakaway

halter. It offers owners invaluable piece

their horse’s wellbeing through real-time

halter or neck collar (similar to a cribbing

of mind, knowing that their horse’s health

and historical data.

collar), able to monitor vital signs and

and safety is under constant observation.

IoT technology is based on adaptive

Tragedy triggers innovation

learning. It analyses what’s normal

Most horse owners have at some time

for your horse and then recognises

wished for a tool able to alert them when

unusual activity or abnormal biometric

their horses are in trouble, or to give

parameters. It gives feedback on

insight into behaviour patterns in need

important vital signs, such as a horse’s

of correction.

heart and respiratory rate, as well as

NIGHTWATCH® inventor Jeffrey Schab understands that feeling well. In 2013 he lost Snoop, a favourite show horse, overnight to colic. Snoop was only eight years old when he died alone in his box because no one knew he was in distress.

Shortly after Snoop’s death, Jeffrey went to work to create a tool that provides

behaviour parameters. The device is non-invasive, uses MEMS motiontracking technology, and doesn’t need to be touching the horse to work. It also includes a GPS locator, useful if the horse is at risk of theft or loss during a natural disaster such as a flood or bushfire.

how often they lie down, or, if they’re

A cellular chip sends this essential

turned out, where they go at night.

data to a device of the owner’s choice,

Ideal for monitoring pregnant mares,

and tailors unique stress indicators

foals, senior, sick or injured horses, and

to each individual horse. When the

chronic conditions such as windsucking

device detects abnormalities in vital

and weaving, the NIGHTWATCH® also

signs or behaviour an alert is sent out,

supplies the data you need to tailor your

which remains active until one of the

horse’s daily training based on their

designated emergency contacts accepts

overnight activity and wellbeing.

the notification.

horse owners with an automated alert when their horses showed signs of distress. The NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™ is the outcome of Jeffrey’s dedication to saving the lives of horses through prompt intervention.

IoT technology This innovative device uses Internet of Things (IoT) technology that works across Wi-Fi and mobile networks to

ABOVE: The device monitors a variety of vital signs and behaviour parameters.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 77

A

fter COVID’s many challenges, could there even be a better time for a bit of self-care and

indulgence? We think not! Which is

T R AV E L

It’s time to escape

when the idea of a dreamy little getaway to Western Australia’s magnificent Margaret River wine country came to mind – and while accommodation options in the region are plentiful, we just loved the look of Cape Lodge.

This stunning private country house hotel is a three hour drive, or one hour flight from Perth. It’s centrally located between

You’ve earned it, you deserve it, now it’s time to pack your bags. We’re talking a fabulous Margaret River getaway complete with luxury accommodation and horse treks through unforgettable countryside.

the coastal hubs of Dunsborough and Yallingup, and the delightfully rural Margaret River township.

If tranquillity’s your thing, you’ll be pleased to know that Cape Lodge

T R AV E L

accommodates only 44 guests at any

enjoy a guided coastal walk, or relax

least, extensive: country lanes, beaches,

one time. The beautifully appointed

with a massage in either your own room

forests, farm land, the bush and a

rooms, which offer views over the

or the Lodge’s treatment room – the

National Park – take your pick.

property’s acres of lawns, gardens

opportunities to wind-down are many.

and vineyards, are designed for

But really, what getaway is complete

options include a horsemanship session

two adults, with king-size beds,

without horses. Which is why you’ll want

and beginner’s bush ride. The more

luxurious bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and

to take to the trails at Jester’s Flat – and

adventurous have a choice of two-day

complimentary in-room refreshments.

our advice would be book well ahead

trails – we thought the package with

An award-winning restaurant caters

because they do get very busy.

a long table lunch in the paddock at

for leisurely breakfasts and sumptuous

Jesters Flat is a working equestrian

dinners that make the most of the region’s abundant fresh produce and seafood. You can even take your kitchen skills up a notch with an exclusive cooking class from Chef Tony Howell.

farm and boutique vineyard situated approximately 20 minutes’ drive from

If you’re a beginner or complete novice,

St Margaret’s Vineyard had definite appeal – or really spread your wings with a glorious five-day Margaret River Ride.

the town of Margaret River. Their beautiful, happy, healthy herd includes Quarter Horses and Australian Stock

Sample the estate’s delectable wines,

Horses – they’re an ASH stud as well,

take a dip in the pool, tour the region

sometimes with horses for sale - and the

in a Jaguar sedan or Mercedes Viano,

choice of rides and trails is, to say the

LEFT: Tranquil and inviting, a getaway at Cape Lodge will soothe your soul (Image courtesy Cape Lodge).

ABOVE: Immerse yourself in Margaret River’s idyllic bush landscape (Image

by Stephen Blakeney Photography).

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 79

Jesters Flat caters for riders of all abilities and ages from six years up.

Their friendly and expert team will match you with your perfect unicorn, and multiday treks include accommodation under the stars in luxury bell tents.

Bags packed? Let’s go!

To book your unforgettable Margaret River escape visit capelodge.com.au and jestersflat.com.

ABOVE: Morning tea on the Jesters Flat two-day Farmhouse Trek (Image

by Stephen Blakeney Photography).

RIGHT: Sampling wines from the Cape Lodge vineyards (Image courtesy Cape Lodge).

80 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE SEMI-CONCENTRATE, LOW STARCH, OATS FREE, HIGH FIBRE, OMEGA ENRICHED HEMP BASED HORSE FEED

www.greenvalleynaturals.com.au W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 81

ng aci by R r d e Af t sore Life ly spon Stud ud ield pro r rowf A

going on to other careers after their time on the track, including the stud farm, the equestrian circuit, and non-competitive

LIFE AFTER RACING

pursuits such as trail riding, or as equine therapy horses to assist adults and

Living the life

children in need.

A breed that craves purpose, the question still remains as to what becomes of a Thoroughbred once it has fulfilled its primary purpose on the race

Communications Specialist at Racing Victoria, CHRIS KENNER introduces their innovative Off the Track Community program.

S

track, whether it has been successful for its owners and trainer or not.

As far back as 1898, renowned racing journalist Herbert Buckley (better known as Ribbledon) penned the article ‘What

ince the importation of pureblood

Thoroughbred’s versatility, speed and

Thoroughbreds from England

smarts has made it not only a terrific

to Australia in the early 19th

racehorse, but also a breed much

becomes of old racehorses?’ for The Australasian newspaper. While he delved into the longevity of some racehorses, Buckley also explored anecdotes of

century, the use of the breed, while

sought after for various other vocations.

varied, has predominantly been for

The majority of Thoroughbreds today

assisting baker runs, joining the circus, or

racing. However, over the decades the

can be found in a racing stable before

heading for the breeding barn.

82 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

retired horses transformed into hunters,

More than 120 years on from Buckley’s

While this work is underway, with further

With 3,900 members registered on

article, understanding and providing

details on the Register’s framework and

the platform, many of whom have 20

the best opportunities and a genuine

operating model anticipated this year,

or more years riding experience, more

Racing Victoria (RV) has already taken

than half have ‘claimed’ an off-the-

steps to create greater visibility for off-

track Thoroughbred. To make a claim,

the-track Thoroughbreds in Victoria. In

members search for their horse in the

purpose for every Thoroughbred following their racing career is still a work in progress.

The challenge starts with understanding the Thoroughbred population dynamic.

With thousands of horses leaving the racing industry in Australia each year, the visibility and traceability of

May 2021, the organisation introduced the Off The Track Community, an online space for OTT owners, riders looking to buy their first retired racehorse, and OTT enthusiasts wanting to engage with likeminded horse lovers.

In what is believed to be a racing

a horse’s movements beyond racing

world first, RV is paving the way to

is paramount to ensuring their well-

better understand the movement of

being. However, the existing data has

retired racehorses across the state

traditionally been unreliable. To address

through this innovative program.

this situation, the National Horse Traceability Working Group was formed in 2020 and was tasked with developing

There are thousands of off-the-track Thoroughbreds enjoying second careers in Victoria, and since the Off The Track Community became active just eight

recommendations on the feasibility of a

months ago, RV has gained greatly

National Horse Traceability Register.

improved traceability of many of them.

online database, and once found, provide RV with branding images and associated details to confirm their ownership. Along with claiming their horse, members can also provide updates on how the horse is progressing in its career after racing.

To date, more than 2,000 horses have been claimed, 50 per cent of which are aged 10 or over.

LEFT: Louise Abey with six-yearold mare Mareeza Brown on their Mornington property (Image by Reg Ryan Photography).

ABOVE: OTT Another Option with Lucy Kolomanski (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography).

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 83

L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G

In addition to being able to claim their horse, Off The Track Community members can also register as a Full Circle emergency contact, offering an important safety net for retired Victorian racehorses found in a poor welfare situation. The Full Circle program enables interested members to nominate as a contact for any registered Thoroughbred in the Off The Track Community. If a situation arises in which the horse is in need of assistance, RV’s Equine Welfare team contact the nominated Full Circle member (and there are now more than 700) to ascertain whether or not they might be able to help. Often this is simply to care for the horse until a new home is found.

The incentive-based platform, while focused on improving RV’s ability to track retired racehorses across the state, is also an important tool to support owners and riders of off-the-track Thoroughbreds through educational offerings, webinars, news, and video updates. These benefits, created following feedback from members, have been gradually added to the platform over the past eight months.

The community’s exclusive content has proved to be an important tool for many off-the-track owners who wish to access tips and tricks to improve their care, training and general enjoyment of Thoroughbred ownership.

With many keen equestrian competitors ABOVE: A very focussed Robert Palm and Honey Steels Gold (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography).

Well-supported by Victorian equestrians,

Community has yet been identified as

over 2,000 Off The Track Community

enjoying a secondary career in the circus,

members have identified as owner-riders:

or as working for a baker!

dressage (1,097) followed by showing (1,027) and then eventing (1,005 ) are the most common disciplines.

in the Off The Track Community, a function was recently added to provide access to event calendars and entry information. The function will be upgraded this year so members can register for events through the platform -

Through information provided on the

yet another mechanism to help improve

platform, details for nearly 100 horses

the visibility of retired racehorses.

have been corrected on racing’s

And for owners and trainers looking

The Community is also popular with

National Register, and 145 horses that

for ways to transition their horses out

those who own less competitive horses,

previously had no specified owner

of racing, there’s information on RV

with more than 1,000 members indicating

or address at the point of retirement

supported pathways and programs, as

their interest in pleasure and trail riding.

have now been located – small steps

well as contact details for the RV Equine

However, unlike the 1800s, no horse

to further improve the visibility of

Welfare team, who are happy to offer

claimed through the Off The Track

Thoroughbreds in Victoria.

advice on a horse’s best options.

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L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G

The Off The Track Community platform is also an important resource for Thoroughbred owners to access RV’s statewide network of acknowledged retrainers, who support the retraining and rehoming of horses as they transition into second careers.

Additionally, owners can use the platform to register their horse for industry supported initiatives such as the RESET Program.

As the community grows, so will the features offered. There’s an everexpanding library of educational tools and owner stories to immerse in, growing engagement functionality, and general support for those wishing to learn more about off-the-track ownership.

While the Off The Track Community will never replace the scope of a national traceability register, the online platform is making great strides towards not only increased understanding of the movement of retired racehorses in Victoria, the potential gaps, and where welfare efforts are best directed, but also to expanding and improving the skills and knowledge of the off-the-track community.

The response to the Off The Track Community platform has been so positive that it now includes members from other Australian states and territories, and even a couple of overseas owners wishing to claim their horses.

To check out the Off The Track Community and claim your Thoroughbred, visit ottcommunity.com.au. If you have any questions about the platform, contact RV’s equine welfare team at offthetrack@racingvictoria.net.au.

Life After Racing is proudly sponsored by Arrowfield Stud – visit arrowfield.com.au.

RIGHT: Wilbur enjoying life off the track at Nikki Cook’s Shory Park property (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography).

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T

hose cooler evenings can mean only one thing – it’s time to hunker down and prepare for

F E AT U R E

the change of seasons. With the sun rising a little later and setting earlier every

Fashion finds for cooler days

day, adding some warmer pieces to your wardrobe will see you through the coming months in style. So with autumn/ winter and fashion-forward as our mantra, we went looking and absolutely loved what we found, and these beautiful pieces are as on-trend for non-riders as they are for equestrians.

In tweed we trust

It’s officially autumn and cooler days are ahead.

Fashionista JESSICA MORTON offers up some stylish European and home grown winter warmers.

No longer the realm of the prim, proper, and thoroughly British, tweed is back.

There are so many reasons why the tweed coat is a classic in any gal’s

F E AT U R E

But even if you’re on the hunt for

and detachable hoods make these

something a little more casual, good

designs as fashionable as they are

tailoring is still essential. We found some

effective. If you want to look fabulous

delightfully feminine tweed jackets in a

while staying warm and dry, this is an

more contemporary cut, that offered a

autumn/winter wardrobe staple.

variety of clever design features including

Oilskin alternative

a hidden full-length zip extending into a stand-up collar to keep out winter weather, hard wearing suede trim, and zipped cuffs that can be folded back to reveal a stylish contrasting lining.

Feminine flair

Based on the classic Aussie oilskin, we discovered several coats cleverly refined to offer a more female-friendly fit. With a variety of ingenious features, we thought the option of a zip-in fleece jacket or gilet for additional warmth was a very

The modern riding coat is an update

clever idea. Waterproof and breathable

on a traditional staple that traces back

with a fully adjustable hood and vented tail with gusset, these beautifully cut coats are ideal for a range of leisure activities both in and out of the saddle.

autumn wardrobe. With a cosy feel that spells quality, a good tweed jacket will keep you warm when it’s nippy outside, but is light enough to be comfortable on warmer than usual autumn days. Whether you’re planning outdoor activities, or just want something country to wear to the office, tweed is practical, smart, and looks great with just about everything.

So what should you look for when you’re ready to invest? We suggest the first box to tick is fabric. The finest tweeds (generally speaking those from Scotland and Ireland) will not be cheap, but good quality represents style plus serviceability.

Which brings us to cut. One of our favourite pieces, released in a signature equestrian collection last year, is an ergonomically tailored tweed riding jacket which offers a flattering silhouette while allowing ease of movement when you ride.

FAR LEFT: Equestrian Stockholm Active Performance Jacket

to the heady time when women first embraced elements of male riding attire. However, ladies outerwear had to accommodate bulky skirts and bustles, necessitating a longer, elegantly contoured back panel – and that romantic Edwardian skirted style caught our eye when we came across a

TOP: Holland Cooper Tweed Riding Jacket

rain, wind and chill proof coat featuring a

Middle: Odette Blackcurrant Waterproof Breathable Windproof Coat

inner membrane.

RIGHT: Baleno Kensington Long Waterproof Coat

Flattering pinched waistlines, adjustable

tough cotton canvas outer and insulated

back straps, padded moleskin collars W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 87

F E AT U R E

happily team with literally anything in your wardrobe, to eye-catching pops of colour and pretty designs, you can trust wool to do it with style.

And neither should the humble waistcoat be disregarded. Every autumn wardrobe needs a few lightweight transitional pieces that offer insulation without bulk, and waistcoats are a timeless mid-layer. A beautifully tailored waistcoat can be worn buttoned-up under blazers or long coats, or left open as a statement piece over a shirt.

From the elegant colour palette of Irish Donnegal tweeds to light but warm fleece, waistcoats are the wardrobe item to easily take you from the saddle to the city and back again.

Form follows function

seats here, thank you), as is stitching

Outer layers are important during winter,

that’s goes the distance and adds flair

but so too are middle layers and the

to the overall look. Team your jeans with

value of quality knitwear should never

a puffer jacket, a bomber jacket, or an

be underestimated. When it comes to

on-trend flannel shirt for a look that’s

cost, natural, renewable wool is a great

casual, comfortable and cosy.

investment that never falls from grace.

We’re also loving the idea of winter

Renowned for its durable qualities,

jodhpurs – well, why not? You should

this fibre is versatile and perfect for all

be shopping for stretchy, comfortable,

seasons. From cosy, slouchy knits that

quality fabric, a nicely tailored cut, robust stitching, plus a fleece or micro fleece lining to keep the chills at bay.

Alternatively, you might want to layer up your existing breeches with a pair of thermal underbreeches. Either way, you’ll weather colder days in style.

Is there anything worse than a cold head and hands on frosty mornings? Keep your ears under wraps with a toasty

From head to toe Do jeans ever go out of style?

Absolutely never! But there are jeans,

warm beanie or headband. Our pick was inspired by classic cable-knit, lined with chenille for added comfort and warmth,

and then there are jeans. You’ll pay more for a pair that are comfortable, durable enough for riding or work, and stylish enough to take you everywhere else – but trust us, it’s a worthwhile

TOP LEFT: Vestrum Aussois Round Neck Jumper BOTTOM LEFT: Georgie Salt & Pepper Donegal Tweed Waistcoat

investment. A sensational fit is super

Middle: Ariat Rebar DuraStretch Riveter Straight Leg Jeans

important (no waistband gaps and saggy

TOP RIGHT: Joules Flannel Shirt

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F E AT U R E

The choices are many, but we liked the idea of comfort coupled with easy to pull on elasticated sides in a stylish mid-calf length boot that promises warmth and protection from the elements. But if you want to infuse modern western pizazz into your look, you can’t go past the traditional pointed toe that looks oh, so good with bootleg jeans. And you now have the options of antique pull up leather, inside zippers, beautifully detailed stitching and piping, and heels that offer as much stability in the stable as they do at a hoedown.

Are Chelsea ankle boots still a thing? and available as both a beanie and

Absolutely, and it’s a trend that shows

So, with winter on the way it’s essential

headband. Bliss!

to stay warm and dry while, of course,

Maintaining that subtle line of

still looking fabulous. But play it clever:

communication with your horse while

refresh your wardrobe with classic

avoiding frozen fingers calls for gloves

designs and quality fabrics that will

that go above and beyond. Boxes to

mix, match, dress up, dress down, and,

tick are supple, elastic, and breathable,

perhaps most importantly, will stand the

preferably with a warm micro Bemberg

test of time.

lining that absorbs moisture and wicks it away, reducing clinging and interior dampness.

Finding your feet Finding a pair of wear anywhere boots that look and feel good can be quite the challenge. Luckily, this season’s styles are just as adept at pounding city pavements as they are roaming rural lanes. Whether you choose a pair of western style ankle boots, or chunky lug-soles, these offerings are all super functional and can be teamed with slouchy sweaters, dresses and jeans for an easy put-together look.

no signs of slowing. The timeless Chelsea’s iconic silhouette and elastic side panel sets them apart from the rest.

They’re long-lasting, comfortable, and they look great with casual and formal outfits. Make your fashion mark and choose from patent leather detailing, back or side zips, supple leather lining, and anti-shock insoles. Some pay homage to the classic brogue while

TOP LEFT: Roeckl Roeck-Grip Winter Glove BOTTOM LEFT: Tucci Marilyn FP Punched Patent Short Boot

others are plain, sleek and cleverly

MIDDLE: Prohorse Australia Winter Jodhpurs

understated. But no matter what you

TOP RIGHT: Ariat Cable Knit Beanie

choose, you really can’t go wrong with

BOTTOM RIGHT: Lazzari Elasticated Boots with lug sole

the ever-elegant Chelsea.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 89

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90 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

SADDLE REVIEW

PDS Valegro The PDS Valegro, designed in collaboration with Olympic dressage great Carl Hester, offers rider stability and support, while your horse will appreciate the comfort of AMS® panel technology.

Her first was a stock saddle borrowed from someone’s mum, her latest a PDS Valegro purchased through The Saddle Hub – and Kristen Fleet, Manager at Chincogan Ridge Equestrian in Mullumbimby NSW, couldn’t be happier with the new addition to her tack room.

Originally from Michigan in the US, Kristen came to Australia in the '60s with her non-horsey family, and settled in Ocean Grove, Victoria, conveniently close to Reinwood, the riding school run by gifted horsewoman Carol Cavanagh.

“I was nine when I began having lessons with Carol,” she says, “and I count myself lucky to have had that opportunity.”

At twelve, Kristen’s first pony arrived. “I’d ride her with great zeal every day as she

was very fat and I was scared she’d get laminitis. Then one morning she gave birth to a foal!” she laughs.

Despite that surprising entrée to horse ownership, her interest in all things equestrian blossomed, particularly when she went to a Western show and discovered Quarter Horses, subsequently buying T Bar Bingo from Winderadeen Stud. “He competed in cutting, reining, halter, pleasure, trail and dressage," Kristen recalls, “and he taught me more about horsemanship than any other horse I’ve had the pleasure of owning.”

Now with a strong interest in working equitation and classical dressage, she also confesses to an obsession with baroque

breeds, which are notoriously difficult to fit.

“I needed a saddle for my Andalusian, but first contacted The Saddle Hub to sell my Zaldi San George, which had been perfect for my Quarter Horse. The great thing for me about The Saddle Hub is that you have the world’s best saddles at your fingertips.

I trialled a number of different saddles which I’d otherwise never had access to – Devoucoux, Equipe, Amerigo – and ended up buying a County Epiphany which fitted us both perfectly,” she explains.

Her latest Saddle Hub purchase, the PDS Valegro, is for her four-year-old Clydesdale X Matilda, who Kristen is slowly bringing on for dressage and working equitation. “I needed an extra wide fit with long panels as I have long legs. I tried four saddles and the PDS Valegro was a great match. I also have a Lusitano Sporthorse who’s still being broken and will hopefully be my next working equitation star, and Chincogan Ridge has recently taken on a lovely Lipizzaner gelding who’ll spend the next six months doing lots of in-hand work.

He’s destined for the working equitation and dressage arenas as well.”

Once both horses are ready, she’ll be back in touch with The Saddle Hub’s manager Shae Herwig, who, Kristen says, is wonderful to deal with. “And I’ll also be seeking Shae’s expertise later this year when I’ve finished establishing my equine farm stay and training facility,” she adds.

The Saddle Hub has a wide variety of top quality second-hand saddles, so why wait? Visit equestrianhub.com.au and browse through their fantastic range.

ABOVE: Spooky blue tarps are all in a day’s work for four-year-old Clydesdale X Matilda.

All saddles come with a two-week trial, finance options, and a courier right to your door.

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O N M Y TAC K B OX

To be your best Equestrians face no shortage of challenges in the quest to be their best. Professional Pilates instructor JESS MORRISON offers three exercises designed to strengthen and correct rider posture.

A

rider must possess physical prowess, a sharp mind and a keen understanding of

the movement of their horse. No other sport has at its centre a living, autonomous being!

exhibited on the horse, can have a negative impact on its way of going.

The rider needs to understand and appreciate how their daily activities impact their body. This provides a great introspective starting point for

This alone significantly increases

their training off the horse. The rider

the degree of difficulty for riders.

also needs to be aware of how their

The movement of the horse is bold

body moves in various planes and

and rhythmic and for it to be at its

ranges of motion. This requires a

best, requires from the rider balance,

strong proprioceptive ability – the rider

suppleness, symmetry, strength, control,

must develop a capacity to perceive

and awareness.

their position in space, an element

Horses, like their human counterparts, generally favour one side over another.

Considered training can help address this in the horse, and when it comes to humans, the same is true. We too can train our bodies to be more even, aligned and posturally correct.

Humans have, over time, created patterns of movement in their bodies which are far from ideal. We engage in an ongoing and often relentless repetition of particular movement in

of fundamental importance in riding.

Directing the rider’s thoughts to these areas will have a profound impact on their ability to dissect their flaws and identify areas that need more work and attention.

For some riders, there seems to be

Pilates instructor Jess Morrison and Peakhill ‘Hewie’ Hewitt

somewhat of a reluctance to engage in

All images by Pia Johnson.

off-horse training, but just riding is not sufficient for your body if you want to get the best out of your horse and yourself.

It will not equip you with all the tools

of weakness in the rider via specific and relatable exercises produces an

you require to be the best rider you

awareness that is then taken onto

can be. Athletes from all sports cross

the horse, oftentimes delivering

train: swimmers embark on strength

improvements extremely quickly.

and conditioning regimes in the gym,

I have been incredibly fortunate to have

football players do yoga to enhance

witnessed some exceptional changes

their flexibility, and rowers spend hours

in the riders I regularly work with.

on the bike to increase cardiovascular

The movement patterns we establish

fitness, to name just a few.

the studio and the exercises that we

ensure correct and efficient movement,

The benefits of training your body away

undertake, relate clearly and directly

do not. This too requires careful

from your chosen sport have been well

to riding – rounded shoulders which

consideration, as these patterns when

established. The ability to address areas

produce a slumped position in the

our daily lives that can create patterns of habitual muscle recruitment. These need to be addressed. Furthermore, whether through injury, illness, or a predisposition, we can exhibit compensatory muscle recruitment patterns too, whereby a group of muscles which usually act together to

92 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

I combine traditional Pilates exercises with pliability and balance work to help create a rider with heightened body awareness, greater core stability, comprehensive strength, agility, and symmetry.

off the horse is a brilliant way to establish this. Training in the studio also helps to combat the compensatory and habitual muscle recruitment patterns mentioned above. A careful, trained set of eyes on you when executing specific exercises makes the world of difference.

torso can be retrained, lower backs

be taught how to recruit and engage

In my studio, I teach riders about

that arch creating a hollow position can

their stabilising muscles to create a

comprehensive body strengthening. I

be remedied via pelvic and abdominal

more seamless and stable position.

teach them how to better understand

exercises, and riders who move their

It all starts with developing a heightened

the movements of their body. I combine

weight unnecessarily in the saddle can

sense of body awareness and training

traditional Pilates exercises with pliability W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 93

O N M Y TAC K B OX

the tailbone underneath and a lifting of the abdominals up towards the spine, creating a sense of compression through the rider’s centre.

This is a wonderful exercise to develop abdominal strength, optimise shoulder girdle position and create a much needed stretching of the hamstrings.

You should ensure that your form is held and the moment you feel you are compromising your position, you will need to come out of the exercise.

The Back Extension: In this exercise, the rider lies prone with their feet positioned slightly wider than their hips and with the legs entirely relaxed. The arms are positioned gently by the side of the body. As the rider Image 1: The Pike develops abdominal strength, optimises shoulder girdle position, and stretches the hamstrings.

breathes in, the chest, arms and head are lifted from the mat as the rider concentrates on creating maximum

and balance work to help create a

On the walk out, the rider needs to

rider with heightened body awareness,

create a feeling of lengthening through

greater core stability, comprehensive

the back of the neck. The body becomes

strength, agility, and symmetry. A rider

parallel to the floor without a dropping

that possesses these qualities is far

of the pelvis or an arching of the lower

better placed to deal with the rigours of

back, and there is a distinct feeling

the thoracic extensors is the key in this

riding than one without.

here of the rider trying to push the floor

exercise, and if you are a rider who tends

Below I have outlined three of my

away from them, thereby creating a

to have a rounded shoulder position this

favourite rider exercises (there are so

powerful position through the shoulder

is definitely the exercise for you! You will

many others) to help the rider and, by

girdle. There must be a drawing of

need to do at least 10-12 repetitions.

elongation of their spine (Image 3).

Simultaneously, the shoulder blades are brought in towards one another, increasing the space between the shoulders and the ears. Activation of

extension, their horse.

The Pike to Front Support: This exercise commences with mobilisation of the spine as the rider rolls down from an upright position to one where the hands hover above the floor. With the weight distributed through the balls of the feet the result is a lovely hamstring stretch. From there, with the shoulders positioned carefully away from the ears, the rider then walks their hands out to create the pike position (Image 1). A dropping of the heels will accentuate the stretch through the lower legs. After holding this correctly the rider can then continue to walk their hands out until they are positioned directly underneath the shoulders (Image 2).

Image 2: The rider needs to feel a lengthening through the back as they walk out of the Pike.

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O N M Y TAC K B OX

you are expecting, and all the usual considerations have been accounted for – saddle fit, teeth, feet, nutrition, veterinary and bodywork – then it might be time to seriously and carefully assess you, the rider. The impact you have on your horse must never be underestimated.

Happy riding!

Performance Pilates is generously offering one lucky reader a $49 a month training Image 3: Creating maximum elongation of the spine in the Back Extension.

zone subscription. Keep an eye on your inbox or on our socials for details.

Adductor Stretch with Rotation:

to accept all that we ask of them.

They cannot, however, rise above

Jess holds a Diploma of Professional

A wonderful way to open the hips, in this

the limitations of the rider. They can

Pilates Instruction, and can be found

stretch the rider assumes a wide stance

only be their best, if we are at our

at performance-pilates.com.au. Email

with the legs, with parallel feet and an

best. I often say to riders that if the

jess@performance-pilates.com.au,

upright starting position through the

horse is not performing at the level

or call 0407 090 039.

body. The initial part of the movement sees a roll down through the spine with the hands and arms heading towards the floor. It is important here that weight is directed through the front of the feet,

The impact you have on your horse must never be underestimated.

to challenge balance and maximise the stretch. Once the upper body has lowered down and you have held this position for a minute or so, it is time to add the rotational component to the exercise. Take your right hand and place it on the lower part of your left leg, ensuring that there is no movement of the pelvis in the process. The left arm then reaches up high as you create a pivot of the torso (Image 4).

You need to think here that it is the torso pivot which moves the arm rather than the arm moving independently (which will not give you the intended stretch and mobilisation). Hold the rotation for 10 seconds or so and then switch to the other side. Once you have done both sides, slowly roll up through your spine, until you are back where you started.

Horses are remarkable creatures who are highly amenable and mostly willing

Image 4: The Adductor Stretch with Rotation is a great way to open the hips.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 95

L

ucy Williams has trained and worked with many coaches at prestigious equestrian centres

TRAINING TIPS

throughout the UK. Notably, she coached for Christopher Bartle FBHS

Playing with patterns

(former trainer for the German National Eventing Team and current British Eventing Team coach) at Yorkshire Riding Centre, and for Olympian Jane Bartle-Wilson.

Before moving to Australia, Lucy

A registered British Horse Society Instructor, Lucy Williams holds an IGEQ Level 3 Equestrian Coach Passport, is an accredited Level 2 Ride With Your Mind coach, and is passionate about training with poles.

predominantly evented while dabbling in other disciplines. Now, she’s enjoying training and competing her two young horses in dressage, with a little eventing on the side. Because of the myriad

TRAINING TIPS

benefits it offers, regular pole work stars

training. To fit everything in, I do pole work

and leg,” Lucy explains. “Pole work is

in her own training program and in her

or patterns once a week, but might also

absolutely fantastic at showing riders

popular pole pattern clinics.

utilise poles in a couple of other sessions.”

exactly what their issues might be in their

Why poles?

To build the horse’s confidence, Lucy

For her own horses and for participants

recommends introducing these types

in her clinics, Lucy’s main objective is to

of exercises bit by bit. “Most of us don’t

of rhythm or tempo, the horse’s inability

have fun! “It’s interesting to incorporate

have a pole crew and don’t want to get

to adjust stride length within their tempo,

poles to improve suppleness, balance,

on and off, so I tend to lay out a few

loss of straightness, or if they as the rider

joint function, core engagement, dexterity,

smaller exercises that can be mixed up,

lose their balance in any direction.” She

coordination, adjustability, strengthening

practicing riding lines from one small

believes that as riders, we need to be

of the back and topline,” she says.

pattern to another. For example, riding

introspective, and be prepared to analyse

some arrowheads to check straightness,

ourselves and improve.

then to a curved line to check stride

The best horses in pole pattern sessions

length and turnability, then some raised

have great rhythm, are straight, and are

So how often should you use poles as part of your training regime? “I am a huge fan of cross training, meaning that even for the pure dressage horse

poles for suspension.”

your training isn’t just in the arena. It’s

Rider perks

so important to include other things.

The horse is not the only one to benefit

This helps keep your horse happy and

from pole exercises. “For the rider, it’s

interested in their work and gets them

about being a well-balanced framework

using their whole body,” Lucy explains.

above the horse and allowing them to

“My horses do trail rides, jumping, pole

find their own balance, without holding

work and hill work, as well as dressage

them together with too much hand

dressage training, cross country riding or show jumping. Whether it’s inconsistency

on the rider’s aid, so they’re quick to respond to a ‘go’ cue, a ‘woah’ cue or LEFT: Steph Hann and 4* eventer True Celebre (Wally) negotiate Lucy’s ‘X’ pattern pole exercise (All images by Hilary Hann of Atkins Photography).

ABOVE: Steph and Golden Delight BHI (Dorothee) canter poles on a curved line.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 97

TRAINING TIPS

To make life easier when she’s riding by herself, Lucy tends to set up nine foot exercises, as they are divisible by 3 and 4.5 feet. “That way you can fit three strides of walk, two strides of trot and one stride of canter in a nine foot distance,” Lucy explains. “Obviously, horses can vary significantly from that pattern, but it’s a good baseline. You might have to make it slightly longer for the bigger horse and shorter for the smaller horse, keeping in mind that within reason, you’re generally needing to encourage the long striding horse to sometimes take shorter steps and vice versa.”

Lucy recommends practicing walking pole distances. “Mark out a three foot distance and get familiar with how big A great exercise for dressage horses, raise alternate ends of the trot poles (above), before raising both ends as the horse gains confidence (below).

or small you have to stride out to make it. My poles are ten feet long, so I know three even, big strides of mine make a nine foot distance with one foot left at the end.”

‘Go to’ favourites One of Lucy’s favourite exercises is poles on a curved line, especially when she doesn’t want to get on and off the horse!

“I use this as my regular ‘go to’. I set the midline of each pole on the curve to nine feet, with the inside of the midline at approximately seven feet, and the outside at eleven feet. Then, through a session I can adjust stride length to poles on a curve, on both reins, in all paces.

She says this is an easy, work everything exercise: “Practice turning, shorter steps and longer steps. I always find poles on a curved line help to work the evenness ‘turn’ cue. “Having a well-balanced rider

helpful for making them trust the horse

allows the aids to have clarity and not

and feel change underneath them, whilst

be confused,” Lucy says. “It’s when

tuning into their own body.”

these basic foundations aren’t set in

The set up

place that challenges emerge, like

of your bend on both reins, as you very easily feel drift and loss of line. When the horse keeps his body aligned with the line you want to ride over the curve, you will have core engagement and

In a group pole session, Lucy often uses

correct back lift.”

up to 15 poles in a line, incorporating

Specifically for dressage horses, Lucy

tunnels, arrow heads, and plain straight

loves to use raised poles. “I often lift up

Lucy’s experience as a coach has

poles, all of which are added gradually.

alternate ends of trot poles, set at one

taught her that over analysis really does

At home, Lucy suggests you follow her

or two strides [4.5 feet or 9 feet] apart.

cause paralysis, with some riders simply

pole placing guide (based on the average

Then I raise both ends as they get more

overthinking things: “I encourage them

sized horse) of one walk stride equal to

confident. To raise poles, I prefer to set

to soften their eyes and ride with more

3 feet, one trot stride to 4.5 feet, and a

them on objects that overturn easily, or

peripheral vision. This can be hugely

canter stride equalling 9 to 12 feet.

allow the poles to fall relatively easily,

horses rushing, not holding a constant tempo, or lacking straightness.”

98 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

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TRAINING TIPS

rather than using cavaletti. Raised poles help to slow the tempo, creating airtime and suspension, while teaching the dressage horse how to sit and push.”

For eventing, the horse must exhibit straightness. “This is obviously required for the dressage and show jumping phases, but especially for accuracy in the cross country phase,” Lucy explains.

“I like doing arrow heads and diagonal poles. It shows the rider if they have that precision without jumping. It’s so important when riding cross country that you can make a last-minute adjustment. Poles can massively validate that. I often build a pattern over ‘X’ in the arena, meaning I can keep taking riders on a figure of eight, going off both reins through a couple of arrowheads. It can really make it clear where loss of shoulder control presents from one rein to another.”

And our pole guru has a great exercise for show jumpers, although eventers might also love it. It’s a low, raised, bounce exercise on a curved line at canter with the jumps set at about ten feet apart. Start with the poles on floor, then progress to raising them up.

Many of Lucy’s pole patterns are suitable for use across the board.

“They help all horses, in all disciplines.

Every dressage, eventing, and show jumping horse needs to be rhythmical, supple, straight and balanced for their job. Muscle development is of course different in each discipline, but the poles highlight where a weakness might be,” she says. “The benefits are substantial but for me, seeing a horse become more confident and comfortable in how they place their feet, while learning how to use their body better during a pole pattern session, is hugely gratifying.”

Contact Lucy through lucywilliamsequestrian.com, and make absolutely sure you don’t miss her instructional videos over in our VIP area.

IMAGES TOP TO BOTTOM: A low, raised, bounce exercise on a curved line at canter is a great exercise for show jumpers.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 101

Horse classes and her mother, Kate, rides and is secretary for the Australian Stock Horse Society’s Moss Vale branch.

YO U N G R I D E R

Setting the record straight

One of Brielle’s major achievements has been receiving on four consecutive occasions a prestigious equestrian award at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

“It’s the RM Williams Trophy for the Most Versatile Stock Horse Ridden by a Youth under 18. I won it with Tommy in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021.The Show wasn’t held in 2020,” she explains.

And that’s a record that will go down in ASH history!

The youngest daughter in a family of Australian Stock Horse enthusiasts, Brielle Powell’s equestrian journey started early and has gone from strength to record-breaking strength, writes SUZY JARRATT. It all began on a little pony named Noni.

Brielle Powell was then three years old and she’s been riding ever since.

Now eighteen, this talented equestrian has made her mark in the show ring, especially in Australian Stock Horse (ASH) classes with her recently retired

gelding Runaroo Tomcat – Tommy, to his friends.

Based on the family property at Yerrinbool in the NSW’s Southern Highlands, Brielle’s parents and older sister all have horses. Her father, Michael, competes in working Stock

102 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

Runaroo Tomcat has been with her since 2011. He’s a fifth generation Heritage Stock Horse, which is defined as a registered ASH descended from the same breeds resident in this country prior to 1945 and ridden by the Australian Light Horse in WWI. “Tom and I grew together to become a strong combination,” Brielle says. “As well as Stock Horse classes he’s been successful at Pony Club, and in jumping, eventing, and hunter classes. He was so consistent in everything he did. He's 18 now and retired but we keep him in light

YOUNG RIDER

work and sometimes take him out on trails with young horses.”

One of these younger ones is Brandwood Samurai, a three-year-old Warmblood ASH gelding by Rotspon, who Brielle has had since a weanling.

“He’s black with four white socks and a star. He lives outside all the time and is a good doer. Already he’s done well in led classes at local agricultural shows,” she says, “and I’ll be competing this year in the hopes of qualifying for the 2023 Royals and Nationals.”

Over the years Brielle has witnessed a rise of interest in the breed: “Riders have been changing over to registered Stock Horses, and they’re not just people in the bush. Many metropolitan showies are converting so they can compete in both open and ASH hack classes.”

To keep her horses fresh, she trains five days out of seven: “I like to vary their work. I don’t rigidly adhere to one particular method. I figure out a lot of things for myself, but I’m guided by my parents who’ve been instrumental in developing my skills. And I’m extremely grateful to Les Friend who’s taught me for six years at the Sutton Forest Equestrian Centre. He stresses the importance of giving the horse a job and making it go forward. He’s also really good at getting the horses relaxed.”

Friend coaches the Equestrian Australia Youth Development Squad and over the years has been the recipient of many equestrian awards. He speaks highly of Brielle’s capabilities: “She’s very talented, a good trainer and a nice young lady. Her parents keep her grounded and she should do well.”

Since leaving school several months ago, Brielle’s been a stablehand at an agistment centre in nearby Welby. “I’m keen to have a future with horses and I’d like to experience working in a UK dressage or showing yard,” she tells me. “But as that’s not possible in this current climate I’ll continue at Welby, take on horses for people who want me to ride them at shows, exercise the ones at home, continue being coached, and train my young horse to be as good as Tommy.”

FACING PAGE: Triumph at the 2021 Sydney Royal (Image by Rodney’s Photography).

ABOVE TOP: Competing in the 2021 Open Challenge Time Trial at Moss Vale ASH Branch Show & Challenge (Image by Rodney’s Photography).

ABOVE BOTTOM: Supreme Youth Horse at the 2019 County of Cumberland ASH Show (Image by Kim Talbert, Catch Light Photography).

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 103

S

ituated on approximately 100 well-tended acres not far from the vibrant town of Garfield, this

PROPERTY CENTRAL

estate is everything you could ask for and more. A few minutes from the M1

World class equine estate

Freeway, and approximately 50 minutes south east of Melbourne's CBD, there are three road frontages, and infrastructure that is beyond impressive. The potential is limited only by your imagination.

Once owned by a well-known Channel Seven media personality, its current owners have put heart and soul into

Located only five minutes from Victoria’s Pakenham Racing Precinct, 25 Finlay Lane, Garfield has unlimited potential.

developing a superb equestrian centre on the property.

The two level centre runs on solar power with back-up generator, and a

PROPERTY CENTRAL

huge water storage tank to collect run off from the roof. It features a mirrored Olympic size indoor arena with a sand and flock base, twenty-five stables, three tack rooms and eight wash bays. The centre’s offices are air conditioned, with a bathroom, gym, kitchen cafeteria, and comfortable glazed and tiled viewing lounge equipped with a wood heater to beat the winter chills.

The centre’s exterior facilities include a wash bay, feed areas, and ample parking for vehicles and floats, as well as an outdoor arena.

Other possible development opportunities could easily stretch to an exclusive horse breeding and training facility, an all-inclusive Olympic training centre, a health and wellness resort, or perhaps take advantage of the property’s riding trails and spectacular lake with an adventure retreat.

Fifty small and twelve large paddocks, all with rye and clover pasture, offer more than adequate equine accommodation – and for you there’s a generously proportioned, architecturally designed tri-level home with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, four expansive living spaces, a kitchen dining area that makes entertaining an absolute pleasure, and stunning views out to the Baw Baw Ranges.

The home is equipped with energy saving solar panels and the inground pool is solar heated. Connected to the town supply, there’s also tank and dam water if required.

Everything about this magnificent property speaks to quality and comfort.

Visit horseproperty.com.au for further information on this truly unique offering.

TOP: The equestrian centre has twenty-five stables, three tack rooms and eight wash bays.

MIDDLE: The home’s spacious dining area is filled with natural light.

BOTTOM: Economically solar powered, the centre’s air conditioned office area includes a bathroom, gym, and kitchen.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 105

20 QUESTIONS

20 Questions with Rachel Watts

Thoroughbreds but I realised I wasn’t as good as I needed to be to compete at an elite level. And I really enjoyed looking after elite level horses.

Q: Do you ever ride for pleasure or to cool down a horse?

A: Riders are plentiful at our yard.

There’d have to be a severe shortage of them for me to be asked to ride! We try

Rachel Watts, international super groom and 2017 Equestrian Australia Groom of the Year, is well known for her complete dedication to horses.

to stick with our strengths at Bimbadeen.

Q: You groomed for Chris Burton in the UK. Do Shane and Chris have different training methods?

A: A difficult question. They have different riding styles. Burto likes to control every aspect of his horse and every move is calculated. Shane tends to be less so. I can’t say any more than that!

Q: Shane often takes 20 horses to a show. How do you plan for that?

A: There’d be up to ten people participating at an event but I’m the only one working solely from the ground.

The riders pitch in to help when they’re able. All schooling is done in the saddle.

Shane’s not into lungeing horses so I don’t have to do that either.

Q: How many international venues have you attended as head groom?

A: Once every month when I worked for Burto we would go from the UK to events in Ireland and around Europe.

With Shane I’ve been to several TransTasmans in New Zealand, the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Scotland, Burleigh

Q: Were horses always part of your life?

A: Yes. I grew up in Kyneton, Victoria

Marvis Wardell Award, which recognises

and all my family had horses and rode.

individual to the course. I then went to

Tryon in the US, and to Tokyo for the

work with Nick for ten months.

Olympic Games.

Q: When did you start with Shane Rose?

A: In 2006 I worked at Bimbadeen,

Q: Is there still class distinction with

Shane and Niki’s property, for a few

grooms?

months while he went to WEG in Aachen

A: It’s improved a lot. If you look at

and on to Burleigh. I began full time

the recent Olympics riders, they’ve

there in ’07.

publicly thanked their grooms and

Q: Have you ever ridden competitively?

A: I rode up to 3* on some great

acknowledged them in media reports

Q: You studied at Marcus Oldham College and received a major award.

A: I received the Australian Equine Scholarship to study an intense oneyear course at the college that included practical, veterinary and business management. My mentor was Nick Roe, a veterinarian, 3* eventer and racehorse trainer. Upon graduation I received the

an outstanding contribution by an

106 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2

and then across to Europe, WEG at

overseas riders when it comes to

and on social media.

20 QUESTIONS

Q: When overseas have you learnt any

Q: Is there one with whom you haven’t

Q: What qualities should a school leaver

tricks of the trade?

been able to establish a rapport?

A: Heaps. Every time you go on a trip

wanting to become a groom have?

A: Virgil! He and Shane have a very

A: Attention to detail, a desire to be

you learn something which makes your

special bond. And Burto had Tempranillo,

the best at what they’re doing, open to

work easier. The same would apply if

an opinionated mare but really sweet

new suggestions, and to keep learning

those people came to my yard – they’d

once you got to know her. Virgil has his

learn a heap from me.

about every aspect of horse health,

own opinions about everything.

management and schooling.

Q: Your biggest concern when flying

Q: Any changes to the sport since

OS with horses?

you’ve been involved?

A: Travel sickness upon arrival. And when on the plane not putting their

A: No longer are only Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne 5*. Now more eventing

heads down once the bars in front of

organisations are trying to make their

them have been removed, as they can

shows international and therefore

develop lung infections.

relevant to what our riders can expect at

Q: The greatest highlight?

A: There are two. At Aachen in 2016,

the elite level overseas.

FACING PAGE: Rachel and Virgil at Wallaby Hill in 2020 (Image by Ashley Grant, The Blachat).

BELOW: Rachel and the affectionate CP Qualified (Image by Janelle Christopher).

BOTTOM: Shane and Rachel at the 2019 Equestrian NSW Awards Night (Image by Allira Fontana Photography).

CP Qualified was only 0.1 point behind Michael Jung. The Australians took out the Nations Cup and it was the first time the Germans had been beaten on their home soil. And, of course, you can’t look past winning a silver medal at Tokyo.

Q: Greatest disappointment?

A: When Shanghai Joe died in 2017 at Badminton. Nugget, as we called him, was our homebred Thoroughbred, we still have his parents on the property.

Shane had a fall from him and he bolted to the stables, slipping on the concrete and breaking his shoulder. He had to be euthanized. I’d known him since he was three months old. He was the sweetest guy with the biggest heart.

Q: Any close shaves?

A: A freak accident in 2012. I was kicked in the face breaking my eye socket, cheekbone and nose which had to be reconstructed. I was out of action for a bit.

Q: What’s essential when preparing for an event?

A: Apart from the obvious tack three major things: a watch, timetable and my full grooming kit.

Q: Do you have time for a social life?

A: Yes and no. I catch up with friends at events and we have family dinners on Friday nights. No partner at the moment.

Q: Favourite horse at Bimbadeen?

A: Virgil. Also Easy Turn, a beautiful mare who is lovely to deal with.

W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 107

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S TO C K I S T S

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Page 74 – Horse Health

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