Equestrian Hub Magazine September October 2021

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

AUST: $12.95 ISSUE #5 ISSN 2652-4635 ISSN 2652-4635

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David Cameron Jumping with heart Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists Lost your confidence We’ll help you find it Carolyn James Boosting dressage scores Megan Jones The equestrian motherhood balance

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Editor Amanda McWhinnie amanda@equestrianhub.com.au Advertising Enquiries Joanne Conyers 0448 442 220 joanne.conyers@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

On the Cover Eight-time Olympian Andrew Hoy and Vassily de Lassos delivered a faultless cross country round at Tokyo 2020 (Image by Libby Law Photography).

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

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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.

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Contents 4 Our Contributors 7 From the Horse’s Mouth 8 Spotlight on David Cameron 20 Brister’s Brief 24 Ask an Expert: Rebecca Ham 28 Delivering Dreams: Our finalists 40 Feature: The Beauty of Balance 44 Vet Vibes: Laminitis 48 Feature: Creating Confidence 53 European Trends: Mountain Horse Boots 54 Nutrition: Feeding Cool Fuel 60 Feature: It’s a Balancing Act

ISSUE #5 • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

66 Saddle Up: When to Call the Fitter 74 Life After Racing 78 Horse Breed: The Haflinger 84 Feature: Spring Wardrobe 91 Saddle Review: Prestige X-Helen 92 On My Tackbox: Improving your scores 98 Training Tips: From the Ground Up 106 Young Rider: Bella Plumridge 108 Perfect Partners: Scott Hergest & Spinnin’ Whiz 110 20 Questions with Cody Rawson-Harris 112 Stockists 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. Always an important issue, she tackles rider biomechanics and offers insightful advice on becoming a more balanced and effective rider.

Amanda Mac As editor of Equestrian Hub Magazine, Amanda’s two long-standing passions, one for horses and the other for writing, come together perfectly.

In this issue she talks to top show jumper David Cameron about country life and beyond, and investigates some great gains for OTT Thoroughbreds courtesy of a group of dedicated enthusiasts in Coffs Harbour NSW.

Ken Faulkner One of Australia's first Natural Horsemanship clinicians, Ken started teaching some 35 years ago. He’s presented clinics around the globe, is an EQUITANA regular, and along with Kathy Stewart Faulkner, runs the Australian Horsemanship program.

In this issue, he takes a look at groundwork and its importance for both you and your horse.

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 innovations and trends – and reckons that with the Mountain Horse Spring River Boot collection, there’s no excuse not to be fashion forward from the feet up.

Claudia Brodtke A communications professional, Claudia has found a great way to combine her fascination with both writing and the equestrian sports through her contributions to the Equestrian Hub Magazine. Outside her professional life, she’s most likely to be spotted enjoying downtime with her horses. In this issue, she chats to our talented Young Rider, Bella Plumridge.

Rebecca Ham Rebecca earned a degree in Equine Science in 2006 and taught equine nutrition at NMIT in Melbourne in their diploma and degree programs before joining the KER team in 2014. Bec is a dressage rider, equine sports therapist, EA and PCAV coach, and in this issue shares some of her extensive knowledge in ‘Ask an Expert’.

4 | EQUESTRIAN HUB SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

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 Part One of a two part fitness series, he offers some expert thoughts on how to prepare your equine athlete for the show jumping ring.

Dr Doug English A veterinarian and long-time 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. For the very latest on laminitis, based on up to the minute research, don’t miss his informative article.

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. She delves deep into restoring the confidence you may have lost, before catching up with star eventer and busy mother, Megan Jones.

Larissa Bilston Larissa, BAgrSc (Hons I) is the Nutritionist for Farmalogic, where she developed Equine Vit&Min and the Farmalogic Equine range.

Her extensive experience is highly regarded by trainers, riders and owners who understand the importance of good nutrition. In this issue, she explains why nutrition influences hot behaviour and what you can do to minimise the problem.

Megan Jones One of Australia's top event riders, Megan began riding at the age of five and continued though Pony Club before bursting onto the international scene at the 2003 World Cup Final. She won Silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and has some fascinating insights on motherhood, plus a few strategies to help with the equestrian/family life balance.

Cody Rawson Harris A second generation film animal trainer, Cody has trained horses for the big and small screen for over 30 years. He’s also successfully produced horses for every Olympic discipline, expertly works horses in-hand and under saddle, and is an exceptionally talented carriage driver. Turn to 20 Questions for a glimpse into Cody’s sometimes unusual world.

Suzy Jarratt Suzy has lengthy and varied form on the board as a writer and presenter. She works for several Australian and overseas companies and is the author of three published books. Two years ago she won an international award for equestrian journalism, and in this issue takes an in-depth look at the remarkable and easy to love Haflinger.

Sonia Caeiro Alvarez Sonia is a journalist, editor and writing workshop facilitator.

She’s had a lifelong love affair with horses, although sadly does not have any and so lives out her passion vicariously through her pony-owning friends. She recently went western and caught up with outstanding reiner Scott Hergest and his remarkable Quarter Horse partner Spinnin’ Whiz.

Carolyn James Carolyn has spent many years competing, judging and coaching, first in the UK and then in Australia where she’s lived since 1980. She has judged at many prestigious dressage events both at home and internationally, and was instrumental in establishing junior development clinics.

Passionate about the sport, she shares some expert pointers on improving your dressage scores.

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.

She discusses saddle fitting and what to look for so you’ll know whether or not to call the saddle fitter.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 5

TAKING APPLICATIONS NOW To find out more, visit our website equestrianhub.com.au 6 | EQUESTRIAN HUB SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

Photo: Rodney’s Photography

Delivering Dreams Sponsorship

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Have you ever wondered if you are

From the Horse’s Mouth

symmetrical in the saddle? Are you hindering or supporting your horse through your position? All is revealed when Enya Crockford talks to Natasha Gunston about the importance of biomechanics. Once you’ve read this article, flip across to Saddle Up. Your balance also affects your saddle, but

With Fiona Todd

there are other factors to consider and Kathryn Sullivan-Butt explains what to

I

look for so we know when to call the

and gloom of COVID.

dressage scores, and we can expect

As the Olympics wrap up, we congratulate

to see some massive improvements

all our equestrians but pay special tribute

from everyone once events are up and

to the always inspiring Andrew Hoy

running again!

with our cover. Andrew reminds us of

Coming back into riding after an injury,

the importance of dreaming, believing

childbirth, or some other life event

and achieving. Throw in bucket loads

can be a massive mental challenge.

of hard work and you can go wherever

Christine Armishaw helps us mount back

you want. I confess to more than a few

up with confidence, and even puts a

goose bumps as I listened to his interview

song in our hearts.

’m beyond excited to introduce you

saddle fitter.

to the latest issue of Equestrian Hub

Combine all of this with Carolyn James

Magazine, a bright light in the doom

great Tackbox article on improving your

with Channel 7 after winning silver. He

We check out the gorgeous Haflinger,

totally encapsulated our ethos here at

European correspondent Jess Morton

Equestrian Hub when he said that dreams

looks at boots, and we give you the

where achievable if you follow them and

heads up on spring fashions (horse

surround yourself with good people.

related, naturally). A happy Saddle

Which of course, brings us to Delivering

Hub customer reviews the Prestige

Dreams – and in this issue we announce

X-Helen and this issue’s inspiring Young Rider is Bella Plumridge.

our ten finalists. Over the next few weeks, we’ll also introduce you to them

Megan Jones proves she is

on our social pages, and ask you to

superhuman as she gives us the

vote for who you think should receive

heads up on combining an equestrian

Faulkner explains why groundwork

life with motherhood. Rebecca Ham

is vital for you and your horse. Our

explains how to keep condition on a

Perfect Partners are none other than

our Readers’ Choice award. Also, a big thank you to Amanda Ross, another home grown Olympian, for her words of encouragement to everyone who applied.

Champion show jumper David Cameron

Thoroughbred: how much protein is appropriate, and importantly, how to

Life After Racing celebrates the versatility of OTT horses, and Ken

Scott Hergest and Spinnin’ Whiz, and to round us out Charlie asks 20 questions of Cody Rawson-Harris.

talks to Amanda Mac about Krome,

avoid ‘fizz’, while still talking nutrition,

growing up in the country, and the

Larissa Bilston discusses the effects

favourite tipple, relax and enjoy! Plus,

power of following your dreams. I’m

of feed, and whether you might

remember to jump over to the VIP area

unknowingly be contributing to hot

to gain extra insights, stories, hints and

always staggered at the way the Universe delivers!

Still on jumping, Charlie Brister lends a hand to get our horses show jump ready: how to improve fitness and strength, how

or anxious behavior. And with spring well and truly upon us, resident vet Dr

It’s a cracker issue, so pour your

tips. Stay happy, stay safe … and dream big dreams.

Doug looks at laminitis. What are the

often to train, and the mix your horse

symptoms? What are the risks? What

needs to achieve the desired outcomes.

effect does grazing have?

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 7

David and Finch Farm Spruce at the Sydney Royal (image by Australian Jumping).

D

avid Cameron is not long home from a Queensland show run.

One of his current team, Alan

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111 Z, came third in his first World Cup at Gatton, which David says is “pretty good”

Following your heart

– a bit of an understatement I think!

Next stop was the Caboolture World Cup Show and an exciting round in the 2021 Australian Jumping Teams League (AJTL).

Similar to the internationally renowned Global Champions League, the AJTL, which has some serious prize money on offer, is a four-round competition for

David Cameron is well known in Australian show jumping circles as a talented rider and an all-round nice guy. AMANDA MAC spoke to him about his early life in country NSW and the events that expanded his horizons.

corporate sponsored teams.

Besides David, the Coolmore Peachester team includes two riders who train at the Cameron’s Redleaf Lodge Stables. Managed by Tallara Cameron, David’s wife, the team jumped

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some good rounds and were coming

And what they did was to ride all the

When you dig deeper, it’s not hard

third until David didn’t quite clear

way through Pony Club, while giving the

to see why, despite the variety of

the challenging Geopro Joker fence,

local competition a run for their money

equestrian influences in David’s

bringing their overall placing to seventh.

at Agricultural shows. “I think one year

formative years, it was jumping that

“I didn’t love the Joker idea before that

we did 32 Ag shows all told. We were

won him over. There were a number of

happened, now I like it a lot less!” he

pretty lucky because many of the shows

able show jumpers in the Forbes area,

says with a wry laugh.

were within two-and-a-half-hours of us.

not to mention the calibre of riders –

Unfortunate confrontations with Jokers

So there were a couple of really good

aside, David’s jumping career has

show runs, as well as the Royals and

been stellar. But then, he’s had a bit

World Cups.”

of practice. Raised in Forbes NSW,

Grant Hughes, Lindsay Ball, and Janelle Waters, for example – who were all competing at the same shows as young David. “There was a lot of great show

Involvement with the horse world

jumping, and we saw that growing up.

doesn’t end with David’s immediate

They were really excellent role models

family. His aunt, Helen Page, a well-

and that inspired you to want to do it

known racehorse trainer now based on

yourself,” he says. And let’s not forget

the Gold Coast, was at the time training

the twins’ peer group, a talented crop of

out of Warwick Farm. A lot of horses

young riders who all jumped well, and

NSW, and had a lot to do with Pony Club

came David’s way through Helen, and

were the source of both firm friendships

and the implementation of the NSW

from Central West Thoroughbreds.

as well as spirited competition.

coaching program.

“We were forever trying out off the

One of those friends was future

track Thoroughbreds,” he recalls – and

Olympian Pete McMahon. Only two

there’s nothing like variety for improving

years older than David, Pete and his

your skills.

brothers grew up at Tullamore, just 80

his family were enthusiastically horse focussed. His father was a successful show jumper, his mother rode dressage and trained young horses. David’s grandfather, Bob Cameron, coached around the Central West and throughout

Impressive family credentials to be sure – and they served David and Ian, his twin brother, well. While the twins attended any and all of the coaching clinics held in the area, it was their parents who were a continuous source

Tallara and Alan 111 Z, trotting up for his first World Cup Qualifier at Gatton in June (Image by The J’Taime).

of support, encouragement, and influence. “Mum and Dad gave us a very sound foundation in horsemanship, and although we didn’t realise it at the time, that was very, very useful,” David says.

Their grandfather Bob also coached the boys on occasion, but his most notable influence was in supplying them with a string of good horses, starting with their first ponies, Mouse and Powder Puff, who, David recalls, was “bomb proof, jumped, sported, and won heaps of ribbons.”

Bob later swapped the ponies for two Galloways, followed by larger horses some years on. “So the first horses we rode were ones that Grandpa gave us,” David explains. “He never owned them though. He sourced them from people he knew. And looking back, that was the reason we started to ride and kept riding. Everyone’s got to have a first good horse that they like, and Grandpa providing us with those early horses was really vital to what we did.”

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David steers Tony Norman's Nicolette to victory in the 2016 Showcase of Show Jumping Silver Final, (Image by Allira Fontana Photography).

kilometres from Forbes. “So we did a

after Krome and learning that he wasn’t

But it was while David was at uni that

heap of stuff together. We’d often take

in work, offered to take him on. Ricki

a twist of fate cemented his future

just the one truck to go to the big shows.

agreed and later that year David took

direction as an equestrian. He had

There were the McMahon boys, a couple

him on a show run in Victoria. Long story

been enjoying playing rugby and was

of other guys who were quite good, Ian,

short, Krome jumped his way into bigger

hoping to develop as a player when he

and myself, and we all rode in the Sydney

classes and David bought him.

badly injured his knee. “That ruined any

Royal, the Juniors in Melbourne and the World Cup shows. I think the fact that we were such a tight group helped us stay in the sport,” David says.

But here’s the thing: when David was much younger, he remembers being at a show where he saw Ricki riding Krome.

“I told my parents that one day, I was

chance of a rugby career. I think in the back of my mind I had always wanted to ride professionally at some stage. So when the injury happened I was like OK, well I'm really going to throw myself into

David’s first World Cup was with

going to have a horse that looked just

Warmblood Krome. Just 18 years old

like him. So it was quite amazing that

at the time, he attributes the horse’s

he ended up at our place, where he

Blessed with access to the family farm

arrival in his life as another factor in

eventually retired and was 30-years-old

and paddocks aplenty, David began

keeping him keen - and how the pair got

when we had to put him down last year.

trialling different horses with the idea of

together is an interesting story in itself.

He was the sort of horse that makes you

building a team. However, as with other

Originally owned by Ricki Cox, Krome

want to ride because he was scopey

rural areas, opportunities to become a

was ridden and jumped by Ricki up until

and brave. He was a pretty good horse

professional rider in Forbes were limited,

the arrival of her daughters. With two

– everyone needs a horse like him.”

so he was in some doubt as to whether

young people to care for, she could no longer attend many shows, plus Krome

While David was studying – a four

the horses.”

that particular dream was feasible.

year teaching degree at Charles Sturt

During the team building phase he

University – there wasn’t much time for

taught first at Trundle Central School,

riding, and competitions took a back

followed by several years at Parks High

seat. However, besides Krome there

School – jobs that with their regular

The horse was on an extended sojourn

were always other horses at home, so

holidays and good hours worked in

in the paddock when David ran into

he kept his hand in with a few shows

well with David’s equestrian pursuits.

Ricki at the Bathurst Show. He asked

during the holiday breaks.

“I employed twin girls to work alternate

tended to be cold backed and was a little tricky, requiring more time than she could afford.

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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 11

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days for me. So that helped me balance the horses and my job. I used to get home and ride four horses in the afternoon, often riding past nightfall.”

By now I’m curious to know at what point David decided that turning professional might be viable, but apparently there

I remember one day she said, ‘I’ve either got to move to Forbes or you've got to move to Sydney, and I'm not moving to Forbes’.

So there wasn't really an option! he definitely didn’t want to live in Forbes

In need of work, David approached a

long-term. So now with a clear-cut

number of schools but with the first term

incentive to move, he applied for a job

already underway, jobs were thin on

at Barker College on Sydney’s North

the ground. Now with nothing to lose,

Shore, and got through to the last round.

he decided to see if he could match

relationship. She was living and working

The college indicated their strong

what he would otherwise have earned

in Sydney, while David was just under

interest and David, thinking he had the

from casual teaching by working with

400 kilometres away in Forbes.

job, resigned from Parks just before the

the horses that quite a few people were

“I remember one day she said, ‘I’ve

job at Barker unexpectedly fell through.

either got to move to Forbes or you've

But with logistics for the move to Sydney

got to move to Sydney, and I'm not

give it another term, and by the end

already in progress, the die was cast.

of that year I’d decided to keep going.

The couple rented five acres at Glenorie,

If I’d stayed in Forbes, I don’t think I’d

some 45 kilometres north-west of the

ever have made enough money out

But that said, he admits that although

city, and with both an arena and yards it

of horses. But when you’re around a

unsure of where he did want to settle,

suited them perfectly.

bigger population, there's a lot more

was no moment of sudden revelation. It unfolded through a process that was far more organic. David was seeing Tallara – who he’d met at the Bega World Cup – in what was a fairly long distance

moving to Forbes’. So there wasn't really an option!” David laughs.

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asking him to ride. The experiment was a success. “Then I thought I'd

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opportunity to ride professionally,” he

right away? Tricky if you happened to be

changed his price,” David says. “I feel

says. Nonetheless, David acknowledges

teaching in a classroom! But David, now

he did us a huge favour getting into

that he probably wouldn’t have taken

working for himself, was able to oblige

this place, and we're very grateful to

the leap to turning professional had it

– and that was the start of nine months

both him and Lesley for doing that.”

not been for Tallara’s support: “She was

filming for Wild Boys.

The couple celebrated their 10-year

always very confident and positive about

Other projects followed, including Pirates

anniversary at Redleaf this year.

me going along that road."

of the Caribbean. “That was great fun.

In 2014 and 2015 David claimed the

And another unexpected source of

The stunt was for the film’s opening

title of Australian Senior Show Jumping

income was about to materialise. Not

scene. Four or five guys were riding

Champion, a hotly contested and hard

12 horses all in harness, and a lot of

fought victory on the Martin family

preparation was needed,” David recalls.

owned mare RR Dyranta. Add to that

long after he’d relocated to Sydney, a friend gave David’s details to Grahame Ware, the horse master for many of the films, TV series and commercials shot

“I’ve learned a lot from Grahame over the years, he’s a fantastic horseman.”

Champion Part 1 at the Sydney Royal plus several World Cup wins, and

in Australia. Grahame eventually got in

So if you happen to notice someone

they were in contention for the 2016

touch with David, asking him to come

looking suspiciously like David trotting

Rio Olympics. David took the mare to

out to his property for a trial ride. At the

across the screen in productions like

Europe, but after just two shows she

time Grahame was involved in Channel

Underbelly, Australia the Story of Us,

suffered a suspensory injury that ended

7’s period drama Wild Boys and very

Thor Ragnarok, or in the not too distant

their campaign. “We put her in foal over

shortly after the trial, David received an

future, Marvel’s Shang Chi, you now

there, brought her back to Australia

urgent phone call: it was the first day

know why!

and eventually retired her. She’s now

of filming and Grahame’s usual riders

And then an exciting opportunity

a brood mare at Redleaf and it’s good

were all out of action, could David come

popped up. David and Tallara were

to have her in the back paddock. I've

firm friends with show jumper Julia

actually got the filly we bred while we

Hargreaves. In fact, David had ridden

were in Europe. She’s been broken and

horses from Copabella Sporthorses,

I’ve just started with her, so that's pretty

the Hargreaves family owned stud, for

exciting,” he adds.

Julia’s mother Lesley. Julia was living at

Missing selection for the Olympics must

Over the oxer with Rowan Willis’ Wellington Grey Goose at Florida’s World Equestrian Centre (Image by Andrew Ryback).

Redleaf Lodge, another family property, when she decided to give the London Olympics a shot – so would David and Tallara like to rent Redleaf? “At the time that seemed pretty unachievable. We were renting five acres with 13 horses, and here we were thinking of moving to Redleaf with 42 acres and the capacity for 40 horses! But we really wanted to do it, so we went for it,” David tells me.

And it was a great decision, even though it represented a steep increase in rent and the couple were well and truly out of their depth, they loved the

have been pretty devastating, and I’m wondering what it takes to come back from such a significant disappointment.

For David, it’s looking ahead for the next opportunity: “There’s no point dwelling on it. You look at the team you've got and decide how to go forward from there. You have to either produce the young horses you already have, or put owners together to buy others.”

David and Tallara married in 2017 (his greatest triumph to date he tells me), and the couple are loving life at Redleaf,

property. So nothing daunted, David

a property that for them has been a

asked Alan Hargreaves for a purchase

“game changer”. They’ve fine-tuned the

price and first option to buy. Alan agreed

way they run the stables, and many of

and for the next six or so years, the

their clients are now based there. “It’s

couple struggled to build the necessary

a beautiful property with great facilities

deposit, selling several horses they’d

and it’s definitely allowed us to go to the

have preferred to keep along the way.

next level. We’ve got a dressage arena,

But after their fair share of trials and

jump arena, cross country paddock, and

tribulations, they eventually became

we hack on the dirt roads around the

Redleaf’s proud owners. “And to Alan's

property. So it's really improved our ability

great credit, in all that time he never

to produce horses,” David explains.

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And on that subject, Redleaf is currently home to an exciting group of horses, including Oaks Come By Chance (owned

by David and Tallara); RR Monster (coowned with Linda Martin); Finch Farm Spruce (co-owned with Liz Watson, and the Brydon family) who’s just started to jump at Grand Prix level; Alan 111 Z (owned by Linda and Graham Huddy, and Sally Watkins) who David reckons is one of the best horses he’s ever ridden; Pete Benson’s Femme Fatale; and Tony Norman’s Tulara Darkensky.

A victory lap with RR Dyranta at the 2014 Summer Classic World Cup Qualifier (Image by Stephen Mowbray).

After the recent Queensland run, there are now three World Cup horses on the team. “Alan, a ten-year-old, Come by Chance who’s nine, and eight-year-old Spruce – so they’re a really exciting group of young horses coming through,” David says.

It’s because we've produced good horses and sold them that we were able to buy Redleaf.

These days, the type of horse David looks for has changed quite considerably. Back in the day when finances were tight, re-saleability was important. So the aim was to source horses that were rideable, good looking, and commercial – horses that other people would want to ride. “And that's been really good for us. It’s because we've produced good horses and sold them that we were able to buy Redleaf,” David says.

can do the next thing,” David says, “but hopefully now we're in a situation where we've got some really good owners and people around us. And we're in a bit of a difference place in our lives so we can build a team and hang on to it.”

Sadly though there were horses that David and Tallara were very fond of and would have loved to have kept, but didn't. They reluctantly sold several horses to Japan to help fund their Redleaf deposit. Oaks Kosmo, sold for the same reason to Maddie Sinderberry, one of their clients at the time, went on to jump in her first World Cup events.

“But I’m sure there’re many riders out there that have those same stories.

You have to do those things so you

So now their aim is to move towards horses with strong competition potential.

Likely candidates need to have a good brain and be good to work with.

Athleticism and strength are both essential and soundness is critical.

“They’re got to be horses that are trainable, I think that's really important,” he says. “Then the aim is to have one that's a real athlete, as well as having commercial potential. The trick is trying to get all those dots joined.”

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Future plans include taking a horse overseas and getting home successfully: “I've had a couple of goes at it and it would be really good to be up there and win a couple of decent classes. Tallara has a good horse in Oaks Come by Chance, so it would be wonderful to do that together. And then of course, it'd be great to represent Australia at the World Equestrian Games. Denis Lynch once told me that your best years as a show jumper are between 40 and 50, so I've got a few years yet to get ready,” he adds cheerfully.

A wise man once said that if you throw your heart over the fence, the rest will follow – I think David must have been listening.

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

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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 19

J

umping an 80cm course may not take much work for the average horse, but what can we do to help

ensure we’re riding a happy, healthy

BRISTER’S BRIEF

Fit to go: show jumping

athlete? How much cantering should you do? What speed should you train at?

It is a bit like the human fitness space, there are so many options. Should you do HIIT, weightlifting, running or Pilates?

Similar to people, variety of training helps to provide a solid foundation.

Let’s break down fitness into different components. There’s the cardiovascular fitness needed to maintain the speed

In Part One of CHARLIE BRISTER’S two part fitness series, he offers some expert thoughts on how to prepare your equine athlete for the show jumping ring.

and impulsion of the canter throughout your round. Then there’s the strength your horse needs to push from the hind end when taking off for an obstacle.

Finally, there’s the conditioning necessary to prevent injury – which

BRISTERS BRIEF

A Thoroughbred will probably need less work on its cardiovascular fitness and more work on their ride-ability and strength to push off from behind.

Jumping should be part of your horse’s work schedule but don’t overtrain

spends slightly longer in the air – only a

How about the weather?

fraction of a second but this adds up over

If you’re competing in the warmer

the course of the day. Therefore, as the

months, be mindful of when you’re

jumps get higher your horse needs to be

training. If you train early in the morning

fitter and more rideable at speed.

or late in the afternoon, how will your

The Equestrian Australia rule book

horse cope when you have to compete

states that in outdoor show jumping

in the middle of the day? Don’t ride in

competitions of less than less than

temperatures that are dangerously high,

1.05m, the required speed is 325 meters

but occasionally you both need to train

per minute (mpm), more than 1.30m

in hotter weather so your fitness is at

requires 375mpm. For comparison, a

an appropriate level for the extra stress

4* cross country is 570mpm.

heat will put on you at the competition.

What surface are you on?

Diet

Is your horse used to jumping on grass

This depends on your particular horse’s

at home but competing on sand, or vice

needs and the level of jumping. If your

versa? Your horse may feel different

horse is fat, feed it less. If your horse is

depending on the surface. If the grass is

skinny, feed it more. If your horse is hot,

wet it can be drastically different to riding

feed less grain/pellets and more fibre. If

on sand – and a deep muddy footing will

your horse is a bit dull, feed more grain/

be physically more taxing on your horse.

pellets. As you’ve probably realised, this

Many top English riders take their horses

is an oversimplified look at your horse’s

means your horse can handle the

through muddy fields at slow speed to

nutritional requirements. What it does

repetition of multiple jump rounds on the

condition them for the less than ideal

suggest is that much depends on you

same day without undue stress on the

conditions that can occur at competitions.

noticing how your horse looks and feels.

joints and ligaments.

What breed is your horse?

By all means call a nutritionist for more

And there are other important

A Thoroughbred will probably need

advice, but also trust your gut instinct on

considerations:

less work on its cardiovascular fitness

what’s best for your steed.

What height are you jumping?

and more work on their ride-ability

All of the above factors impact on what

and strength to push off from behind.

training you need to do. Simply put,

Whereas a Warmblood is likely to need

regular training sessions will give you

more work on their fitness and ride-

a good foundation on which to build. If

ability, but less strength training.

you ride five days per week, chances

Is your horse easily adjustable?

are your horse will be fit enough for low

At 60cm most horses don’t require a lot of athleticism to clear obstacles.

What they do need is basic trainability and education. This will enable them to navigate the course easily and help in their progression up the heights.

At 1.30m a horse requires a lot more strength and power.

What speed are you going?

The more balanced and ride-able your

level jumping. And going back to your

horse, the more efficient it will be in its

gut instinct, how does your horse feel

jumping round. You’ll need to spend

after jumping a course? Are they puffed

less time increasing and decreasing the

or ready to keep going? Do they tend to

canter, which will make things easier for

have a rail down towards the end of the

Generally speaking, the higher the jumps,

you both. A horse that’s heavy on the

round? This will give you a rough guide

the quicker the speed. Also, when the

forehand will require more training and

as to whether you need to increase your

jumps are considerably higher the horse

more time between fences to rebalance.

horse’s fitness or not.

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

BRISTERS BRIEF

Even if you’re short on space, if greater

Thursday: Flatwork

fitness is needed try going at a faster

Friday: Jumping, grid-work

pace around your arena four or five

A fast canter on the long side of the arena with two point seat.

Return to a three point seat on the short side of the arena.

times, rebalancing before each of the

Week 3

short sides before accelerating down the

Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork

long side again. This simulates the added

Tuesday: Jumping course work lesson

adrenaline of a competition, and will also

Wednesday: Hack or trail-ride

ensure you can still balance your horse

Thursday: Pole-work/ride-ability

when travelling at a higher speed. Repeat

exercises

this on each rein, and if your horse is

Friday: Flatwork

doing that easily add extra repetitions.

Saturday: Training day/competition

This is best to do in the middle of your

This is a rough guide and can of course

training sessions when your horse is

be altered depending on your schedule

adequately warmed up. And if they get a

and your horse’s requirements. The

bit over-excited you’ll have time to calm

main idea is the variety of training,

them down and reinforce their ride-

and note the inclusion of easy days.

ability before ending the ride.

To prevent injury and sourness, it’s

Your horse’s work plan

important not to overtrain your horse.

Assuming your horse is already in

If in doubt make sure you go for a jump

consistent work, here’s a possible

lesson with a knowledgeable coach.

work plan. If returning from a spell in

They’ll be a great source of information

the paddock, you’d want to build the

on all the topics mentioned above. Your

workload up gradually and not jump in

coach will help to gauge where your

the first week.

horse’s fitness is at, and provide suitable

Week 1

exercises to help get you to where you

Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork

need to be.

Tuesday: Pole work, ride-ability exercises Wednesday: Hack or trail ride Thursday: Flatwork Friday: Jumping lesson

Don’t miss Part 2 of Fit to go in our November/December issue, when we tackle eventing. Charlie is preparing an

Week 2

instructional video to guide you through

Monday: Wake up, caffeinate, flatwork

this article. To watch, jump into our VIP

Tuesday: Hill work or up tempo work

area. We’ll announce on our social

around the arena

pages and via email to our VIPs when

Wednesday: Hack or trail ride

it’s live, so stay tuned.

Repeat this exercise on each rein, adding more repetitions as fitness improves.

Remember to rebalance in the corners.

22 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

Quality pasture helps to meet a horse’s protein requirements (Image courtesy of Kentucky Equine Research).

How much protein is required?

The protein requirement for horses depends on life stage and workload.

ASK AN EXPERT

Rebecca Ham: Equine nutritionist

The current National Research Council recommendations for protein intake in a 500kg adult horse in work is 540g per day, for horses in light work 699g per day, and those in moderate work 768g per day.

Quality pasture, hay and well formulated feeds or balancers are usually adequate in meeting these requirements.

When it comes to protein, quality is far more important than quantity. A higher

Meet our expert REBECCA HAM, who has a degree in Equine Science and is a member of the Kentucky Equine Research team. We asked for her advice on keeping condition on Thoroughbreds.

quality protein more effectively delivers the essential amino acids required by the horse that cannot be made in the body. A high-quality protein source can be fed in relatively small amounts.

Feeding a lower quality protein at a

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

ASK AN EXPERT

higher rate is not going to meet the

in increasing the calorie density of the

When looking for a commercial feed,

horse’s requirements for these essential

ration without substantially increasing

selecting one with a lower non-structural

amino acids. Optimal protein in a horse’s

the volume of the meal. Keeping meal

carbohydrate content is a good idea. But

diet helps to build and maintain muscle,

sizes small is critical as the horse only

make sure you also take into account

which is important for supporting

has a small stomach, and reducing the

the feeding rate. Even if this figure is

athleticism and performance.

size of the feed will help to improve

low, if you are feeding 4kg per day, it

Does excess protein make TBs ‘fizzy’?

utilisation as it goes through the

may add up to more than if you have

It is a common misconception that high

What feeds should you avoid?

protein diets contribute to more ‘fizzy’ type behaviour. This is not the case. It’s usually linked to other energy sources

gastrointestinal tract.

If you have a particularly ‘fizzy’ Thoroughbred, basing the diet on fat

a slightly higher figure but are only feeding 2kg per day.

If you are experiencing problems with getting weight on your horse, have a ‘fizzy’ horse or are concerned about

in the diet like carbohydrates, which

and fibre is a great way to go. Getting a

have a greater influence on glycaemic

tested, low non-structural carbohydrate

response post feeding. Excess protein

hay is a good option, or soaking it

intake can result in the horse needing

helps to reduce the non-structural

to drink more to excrete the urea and

carbohydrate if you are unsure of its

program to come up with an individual

nitrogen that are broken down as part of

analysis. Selecting the right type of fibre

solution for you and your horse.

protein metabolism.

is important as well and there are lots

What’s the best cool feed for TBs that improves weight and also helps to keep condition on?

of options! Typically, lucerne hay may

If you would like to speak to a member

have a higher digestible energy content

of the nutrition team at Kentucky Equine

and lower non-structural carbohydrate

Research, you can get in contact on

Fibre, fibre, fibre! Fibre intake needs to

content than a grass hay.

1800 772 198 or advice@ker.com

gastrointestinal health, it is a good idea to speak with a reputable, qualified equine nutritionist as they can look at all aspects of your horse’s feeding and management

be at least 1.5% of body weight per day on a dry matter basis. When needing the extra calories for weight gain, this can be offered ad lib if appropriate. When the horse has a healthy microbiome in their hindgut, they are very effective at deriving energy from the fibre provided in pasture, hay, chaff, haylage or other highly digestible supers. As the microbes break down this fibre, they produce B group vitamins, which have been linked to undesirable behaviour if these levels become low. Essentially, good gut health can assist in good behaviour as well as improved feed utilisation.

Selecting super fibre sources such as beet pulp and soy hulls can be valuable here as they are more digestible and can contain more calories than other fibre sources like hay. Additionally, in winter the fermentation process that fibre undergoes during metabolism produces heat, helping to keep the horse warm.

In terms of feeds other than fibre, using a high calorie ingredient such as stabilised rice bran can be useful

Beet pulp is high in fibre, more digestible, and has more calories than many other fibre sources (Image courtesy of Kentucky Equine Research).

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

Photo: Nadeen Davis Photography & Digital Art

F E AT U R E

Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists

F E AT U R E

Although she had a passion for horses throughout her childhood, NICOLE CREIGHTON-JONES didn’t come from a horsey family and couldn’t afford to ride, so she read equestrian magazines, watched numerous horse events, and dreamt that one day it would be her in the saddle.

After leaving school, she volunteered at her local riding club, learning as much as she could before buying Rustic Fire in early 2019. “I’d only had a couple of dozen riding lessons and at first I had to hold the monkey strap while cantering,” Nicole recalls.

Then she had her first jumping lesson and was hooked!

India and Connie at Northside Riding Club’s Derby Day Competition (Image by Meg Andrew).

Her first 40cm competition came a few weeks later, six months after that she was competing and regularly placing in 115cm events, and by the end of the year was

With a mum who was formerly a show jumping state

jumping 130cm courses she’d built herself using course

champion, it’s hardly surprising to learn that INDIA

designs she found online.

ALLEN grew up around horses. She started riding when she was three, went to Pony Club and was helping her

By this time Nicole felt that her dreams of riding at

mother train and break horses by the time she was nine

a high level might really be possible. “I travelled to

– which is when the show jumping bug bit.

competitions with the aim of building up to the Young

As her jumping career progressed, India started training OTT Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds and loved helping the horses into a new phase of their lives.

Rider series in late 2020. But bushfires and COVID meant I was only able to get to three competitions that year,” she says.

But just after her 16th birthday, a bad riding accident

But that hasn’t stopped her. Although she faces time

resulted in compound fractures to her leg, followed by

constraints and financial challenges, she’s now focusing

16 surgeries and a month-long hospital stay.

on mastering 130cm fences before stepping up to

Fear of horses and another accident became very real. “I was terrified, but I needed to kick the fear. So I approached a local Thoroughbred trainer and got a job as a track worker,” she says.

140cm. Her long term goals are to ride at the top level and to one day represent Australia. “Nobody believed I would get as far as I already have, and I’d like to prove that you don't have to be born into an equestrian family to become a good rider,” she says.

It took some time, but India’s shattered leg and her confidence eventually healed. She began training OTT horses again, enrolled in TAFE, and completed a Certificate III in Performance Horse studies along with

Nicole and Rustic Fire in their first Young Rider competition at the 2020 Summer Classic (Image by Kylie Teirney).

Year 12.

It was after moving to Sydney that India purchased Connie, her dream horse. Now four years old, Connie was started and schooled by India, and has turned into an impressive horse with a bright future. “She has changed my life as a human and as a horsewoman. I would like to expose her to multiple disciplines in her young horse phase before pursuing a professional jumping career,” India says.

Although she’s only ever had four paid lessons, India dreams of being able to afford the expert instruction that will help her lift her game to the next level.

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

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F E AT U R E

EMMA HULSE is a passionate equestrian who loves dressage and eventing. She has been busy competing with her new horse Eagle Elms Fiderstar, producing results that include a 1st in both the Novice 2B at Camden Equitation Dressage and the Prelim 1B at Hawkesbury Dressage, and a 2nd in the EVA80 class at Harden Eventing.

Several years ago a series of bad falls rocked her confidence. But with the help of her coaches she’s working on overcoming her fears and is determined to achieve her goal of competing at Medium Dressage and 105 Eventing by the end of 2022.

Hannah and Woodside Maestro focussing on their test (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).

A great believer in giving back, Emma regularly volunteers at dressage and eventing competitions and is a dedicated Sydney Eventing committee

HANNAH GIBLIN began riding as a young child and

member. She says one of her greatest achievements

has never looked back. After a solid grounding at Pony

was her involvement in Sydney Eventing’s public

Club she moved into the world of showing, and some of

acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of

her proudest moments have been winning Champion

the land on which their event was held, which was

Girl Rider 12 Years and Under at Brisbane Royal, some

very well received and later replicated at the Canberra

significant successes at State level competitions, and

International Horse Trials.

coming home from the Queensland State Challenge Show with five garlands. More recently she won Supreme Hack and Supreme Rider of the Show at the 2021 Kilcoy Ag Show, and Supreme Rider at the 2021 Maleny Ag Show.

Emma says she faces three main obstacles to achieving her goals: time, money, and mental barriers.

“Throughout my riding career I’ve balanced full time university study and employment, and now full time employment in the Sydney CBD where I also live.

But while she still enjoys showing – she’s currently

The commute to my horses is often over 90 minutes,

preparing for the Lady Rider class at this year’s

involving exorbitant fuel costs and toll fees. But I love

Brisbane Royal – she felt the need for a challenge and

riding so much I’d do it every day if I could afford it!”

moved into dressage training, a transition that she says has been “extremely challenging but very rewarding.”

She manages to fit everything into her schedule by getting up before the crack of dawn to ride, or if that

And there's another challenge: she’s started her own

isn’t possible, to commute to her horses after work,

horse training and tuition business, and now has

which she says, is never a chore.

several clients. “It was always my dream to be a horse trainer and whilst my business is extremely small, it’s certainly a step in the right direction,” says Hannah,

Emma and Eagle Elms Fiderstar competing in the 2021 Berrima ODE (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia).

who would ultimately like to be a top dressage trainer.

As with many in the equestrian community, her biggest obstacles are time and money. “Although I’m up at 6:00am everyday feeding, un-rugging and cleaning stables, along with working in my day job, there are never enough hours in the day.”

High on Hannah’s wish list is to improve her riding and training techniques, and to find a way to reduce her working hours so she can spend more time focussing on building her training centre and schooling her clients’ horses.

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

F E AT U R E

NICOLE MUTIMER grew up in Larrimah, a remote Northern Territory (NT) township, and spent most of her childhood on the back of a horse. The family moved to Darwin when she was a teenager and for the first time she was able to go to Pony Club, where her ‘cowboy’ riding style was tidied up!

For several years Nicole was employed by the NT Police to develop and deliver Juvenile Diversion Programs for young people who were either juvenile offenders, or had been abused - a role that was both difficult and rewarding. “It’s amazing how horses are a great equalizer and can help heal the most broken of souls,” she says.

Jasna’s current horse is beautiful nine-year-old stallion Royal Rinpoche (Image by Amanda Wood Photography).

Thanks to owning the “epitome of the naughty grey pony”, JASNA MARSANIC realised early that riding was largely a mind game.

After university she learned horsemanship from “a fabulous old couple” who leased her a B grade show jumper, gave her lessons on their A grade jumping mare, and let her have the odd ride on a horse later sold overseas as a Grand Prix show jumper.

Forever grateful for these experiences, Jasna also broke in her first horse under their tutelage, and began show jumping at C Grade when she was told that she was too old and her 17.3hh horse too big to compete at a lower level!

She also strapped for Sue Hearn, who helped get her 12-year-old gelding training medium and advanced level movements, as well as putting her up on some of her own horses so Jasna could get a 'feel' for dressage.

Since then Jasna says she has been blessed with some beautiful horses, and although she hasn’t been competing is loving training: “It’s my zen time where you can't focus on the past or the future. You have to live the ‘now’ when you are riding.”

Her current horse, a beautiful nine-year-old stallion, was broken in late due to injury. Jasna’s dream is to give him a good education before lightly campaigning him, and if possible, to document the journey.

As she says, few riders make it to the top so it’s important to be realistic and celebrate the everyday: “Personal goals and happiness are just as important as competitive goals. And I think it's healthy to inspire others – it's never too late to learn and to try.”

32 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

A full-time coach and trainer since 2013 (she was selected as the National Interschool Championships NT Show Jumping Coach on four occasions), Nicole is a very successful competitor in jumping, dressage and showing events and has won numerous titles.

She is passionate about improving horse welfare through ethical horsemanship practices and education, and holds a Diploma in Equitation Science through Dr Andrew McLean's Equitation Science International.

Her other passion is reaching out to riders who are struggling and are at the point of giving up. Often these are mums and other women who think that having the confidence to ride is a thing of the past.

Despite the costs associated with travelling, she delivers clinics for adult riders throughout the Territory. “Their journey is amazing, emotional and very inspiring,” she says, “and my goal is to help all of those women who want to improve their horsemanship, safety, and feel like they are growing. I want to make the love and joy of riding achievable for everyone.”

Nicole and Mon Amour at the 2018 Fred’s Pass Show (Image by Tegan Cann Photography).

DELIVERING DREAMS

“Every mistake and ‘failure’ is an opportunity to learn. And if you do what you love, your passion and drive will help push you through the tough lessons! The harder the journey, the bigger the sense of achievement. Nothing is worth doing if it takes no effort or doesn’t teach you something.”

Olympian Amanda Ross (Image by Stephen Mowbray Photography)

Business without the bumps It starts with a plan that puts you in control

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Turn over for more information about our additional Team Plans

F E AT U R E

LAURA NORTHOVER began riding as a five-year-old.

Growing up her focus was on showing and dressage, with a bit of jumping and working hunter for variety.

While family funds were limited, Laura was fortunate to always have nice horses, although usually very green or freshly broken. Through high school she worked at a dressage stable, where she learned a lot - including the importance of a good work ethic.

With school now behind her she competes on most weekends in either the show ring or dressage arena.

Although travelling long distances to shows is not in her budget, she is delighted to say that she has been placed at the Sydney Royal in the open, breed, and Georgina and Georgie at this year’s Burpengary CCN (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).

GEORGINA MUTTON’S passion for horses runs in the family, and thanks to helping parental hands she was riding her first pony before she could sit up.

While she had several wonderful horses while growing up, Georgina first discovered her love of eventing with the often naughty Oki. With years of hard work they made Interschool and Pony Club state teams and competed up to 1*.

working hunter classes every year since first attending in 2014. “I am really proud that each year I’ve have taken a horse fully produced by myself. I currently have two horses, a Warmblood and a wonderful Clydesdale cross,” she adds.

With her Warmblood now competing at elementary level, she hopes to progress all the way to Grand Prix one day. But for the next 12 months her sights are set on getting Jay, her “beautiful big spooky” Warmblood competing at advanced level dressage. The most challenging horse she’s ever owned, Laura would love to access training to help Jay reach his full potential.

Then followed a move interstate to attend university,

“I’ve dreamt of riding in tails since my childhood, and I

plus a seven year break from riding, with Georgina

think I finally have the horse to get there if I can do him

“missing it a lot.” Fortunately fate intervened when

justice. Showing wise, my ultimate goal is to win a class

she was offered Life in Manhattan, an OTT grey mare

at either an EA or SHC show, or sometimes I'd even be

whose stable name happened to be Georgie – and with

happy with a top 10!” she laughs.

a birthday just two days after Georgina’s own, it was clearly meant to be!

Although she had to rearrange her life in order to return to riding, Georgina couldn’t be happier. “We’ve

Laura and Jay Jay in their rider class at the Show Horse Council NSW HOTY Show (Image by Lorelle X Mercer Photography).

competed in three Ev65 events, always finishing in the top 10. Our best result to date was winning our event at Fig Tree Pocket in March 2021.”

With Georgie showing so much promise, Georgina’s goal is to compete at EV80 level before the end of the year, stepping up to Ev95 in 2022. After seven years away, she recognises she needs to develop her own riding, and wants to grow as an OTT retrainer and coach: “I’d love to be able to work with more talented Thoroughbreds and young riders in the future,” she says.

While realising such dreams can be financially costly Georgina equates it to “setting your pay on fire before you even get it” - she’s more determined than ever to access the coaching and OTT retraining education she needs.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 35

F E AT U R E

PHILLIPA ROSS has overcome more than a few serious health issues and is definitely not a stranger to adversity.

She rode as a child and her dream was always to own a horse and join Pony Club. However, her family was impacted by the global financial crisis and her dream never came to fruition.

In her early 20s and financially independent, she returned to riding and had just begun cross country training when she had a couple of significant falls.

“They left me injured and traumatised, and out of fear and a belief I was not good enough, I gave up riding all together,” she explains.

Fifteen years later and Phillipa has put the past behind Gabrielle and Sid taking advantage of the 2020 Fig Tree Pocket Equestrian Club Competitive/Participant Dressage Day (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).

her. “In 2020 I reinvigorated my love of horses and horsemanship. I’ve overcome a great deal of adversity in my time and am no longer just surviving, I’m thriving,” she says.

It wasn’t until she’d completed her studies in Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland that GABRIELLE PENNA was able to realise her lifelong dream of owning a horse – and Sid, a well-educated 13-year-old, 17.2hh Thoroughbred fitted the bill perfectly.

When COVID-19 hit, Phillipa began working from home and (when lockdowns allowed) replaced her morning commute with a riding lesson. But her fear didn’t leave entirely until she worked with a sports psychologist and purchased Toby, a gentle Clydesdale cross. The

Knowing only the basics, Gabrielle says that initially she

pair competed in their first HRCAV Combined Training

was “an unbalanced blobbing sack of potatoes with no

event in May. Phillipa says she loved every second and

understanding of contact or correct aids.” But she’s a

“cannot wait to get out and compete more.”

quick learner, and now the pair are eventing in South

Unfortunately, Phillipa’s job became redundant not long

East Queensland. In August last year they rode in their

after buying Toby, and finances are now stretched.

first ODE and have since competed in seven events,

However, she’s determined to follow her equestrian

placing in the top 10 in four of them, followed by a 2nd

dream: “I’m aware you can’t become a great rider

place out of 42 riders in the 65cm class at the Warwick

overnight, and I want to dedicate time to increasing my

Horse Trials ODE. They have since moved up to the

knowledge. And as a fan of evidence-based learning,

80cm classes.

I’m keen to undertake a Diploma of Equitation Science,”

Gabrielle is passionate about community and wants to support her wonderful friends in their riding journeys in the same way they have supported hers: “I believe in building a community around riding where we all believe our goals can be met if we remain tenacious and put our minds to it.”

For Gabrielle, her biggest achievement has been her improvement over the last two years. While 60cm cross country jumps were at first daunting, she now looks at star classes and thinks ‘one day’. “As an adult learner I always felt a little behind in my riding ability and education. Now I believe if I dedicate myself to this sport I’ll be just as competitive as those who have been riding their whole lives,” she says.

And if there was expert coaching to help her on her way? Well, that would be a dream come true.

36 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

she says.

Phillipa with Toby, the heart horse who helped rebuild her confidence (Image courtesy Phillipa Ross).

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Asymmetry usually means the muscle is too weak on one side and too tight on the other (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).

W

e all know riding is a sport like no other, thanks to our four legged friends

who keep us somewhat broke, always

F E AT U R E

humble, and usually very happy. But beyond the partnership aspect of horse

The beauty of balance

riding, the demands placed on us as athletes are also quite unique.

While a sport like running requires forward and up/down movement, a rider must deal with four types of movement: forward and back, side-to-side, twisting,

Riding is a sport that requires the human

and up and down. To ride effectively,

body to perform a variety of movements.

we have to stabilise ourselves against

ENYA CROCKFORD explores the world of biomechanics and shares some expert advice on how to become a more balanced and effective rider.

all these movements and correctly apply our aids at the same time.

This is known as biomechanics, which looks at how the horse and rider move,

F E AT U R E

Check your boots and gloves for uneven wear marks (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston). both by themselves and in relation

What makes us ride well?

boots. Start by inspecting your saddle’s

to each other. I spoke to Natasha

Riding isn’t so much about strength and

seat, the lower part of your saddle flap,

Gunston of The Eventing Physiologist,

power output as activating the right

and the inside of your boots. This can

an accredited exercise physiologist,

muscles at the right time. When we have

reveal unevenness in your pelvis and

biomechanics coach and 2* eventer,

unevenness or position faults, it’s usually

who explains the role of biomechanics

subsequent movement from your legs.

because some muscles aren’t being

in our riding, how to assess our own

“For example, you might see a bigger

used properly, causing them to be weak

biomechanics, and offers some simple

wear mark on the right side of your

while the opposite muscles tighten as

saddle’s seat,” Natasha explains. “If

tips and exercises to become a better balanced and more effective rider.

they work hard to compensate. “About 90% of riders are uneven through the

Why are rider biomechanics so important?

pelvis, because one side is tight and the

Biomechanics dictate our ability to

weak side your seat usually has more

apply our aids effectively and not inhibit

weight in it and your leg won’t work as

the horse's movement so that we can

effectively. On your strong or tight side,

produce good performance. Even more

you will be tense and pushing against

importantly, it ensures we are evenly balanced and easy to carry in order to prevent long-term changes in our horse.

Natasha compares the effect unevenness has on our horse to pushing a wheelbarrow uphill. If the wheelbarrow

other is weak,” says Natasha. “On your

so, you’re sitting to the right and you have more weight in the right leg, which causes the right hip to brace and lock.

At the same time, you might see more wear marks on the left saddle flap and on your left boot, because the tilt has made your left leg less stable so that it

the horse.”

swings around.”

Assessing your biomechanics

And if you ride in gloves, check the wear

To correct weaknesses in our position,

on these to see if you’re using one rein

we have to know what and where they

more than the other.

are. Unfortunately, most of us have been

2. Have someone video you

has a big rock on the left hand side, your

riding with our faults for years so it’s

left arm and leg will have to work much

almost impossible to recognise them on

harder. Soon you will collapse your left

feel alone.

side and shift your ribs to compensate

Natasha recommends three methods to

discrepancies. From the side, check to

spot any weaknesses or unevenness:

see whether you're keeping your ear,

thing happens to your horse, influencing

1. Check your gear

shoulder, hip and ankle in alignment.

the way they move and even causing

Check your gear for uneven wear

If not, notice whether your spine is

damage over the long term.

marks, particularly your saddle and

tipping forward or backwards.

for the uneven load. When you’re slightly uneven in the saddle, the same

You can also assess yourself on video. From the front, look at your stirrup levels and see where there are

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 41

F E AT U R E

Biomechanics involves correctly stabilising our body against the movements of our horse (Image by Ross Stevenson Photography).

3. Get a professional assessment

Three ways to better biomechanics

If however you’re leaning to far back in

The previous two tips will help you

Natasha shared three ways to help

the chair position, your lower leg might

notice any faults and correct them, but

improve your balance and effectiveness:

be too far forward, creating a tight seat,

there is often an underlying tightness

1. Correct a fork or chair position

gluteus muscles and lower back. This

or weakness that will cause you to go

The fork and chair position are

shifts your weight onto your horse’s loins

back into your old position. “It’s not

common imbalances in the way we sit

and your hands will likely be blocking

necessarily a big catastrophe. It could

in the saddle. If you video yourself and

and hanging onto the reins.

just mean that there's a muscle that's not

discover your spine is tipping forward,

quite able to activate correctly because

there’s a good chance you are in the

it's switched off and needs to be turned

fork position. You will have too much

back on,” Natasha says.

weight through your thighs and groin,

In that case, see an exercise physiologist

folding forward off your seat bones

or physiotherapist who can identify

onto your pubic bone. This position

At the same time, let your thighs, knees

weaknesses and help you correct them.

prevents you from using your driving

and ankles relax down.

And while someone equestrian-specific

aids effectively.

2. Strengthen your gluteus muscles

is ideal, any good physio will be able to

To correct this, Natasha recommends

Are you weaker through one side than

help. Tell them what you’re struggling

working on sitting back and shifting your

the other? Is your weight shifting to one

with so they can identify where the

weight from your thighs to your seat

side? Or, do you have difficulty getting

problem is coming from and correct

bones. Shortening your stirrups a hole or

one leg on as well as the other? This is a

those areas.

two can help you create the right feeling.

sign that you’re weak through your

42 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

To fix the chair position, Natasha suggest bringing your seat further forward in the saddle and extending your body by thinking about growing tall.

F E AT U R E

The fork position prevents you using your driving aids effectively (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).

The chair position causes you to block with your hands and upper body (Image courtesy Natasha Gunston).

pelvis and hip stabilisers, particularly your

your feet are a hip width apart again.

first finding your pelvic bones with your

gluteus medius.

Repeat this several times then go the

fingers. “Then bring your fingers up a

Natasha suggests some simple exercises to strengthen these muscles. The first is the clamshell. Lie on your side with your head propped up on your hand and your legs bent at 90 degrees. Your feet, shoulders and hips should all be in line. Keeping your free hand on your hip, ensure your top hip is slightly further forward than your bottom hip. Keeping your feet together, lift your top knee up and slowly lower back down, making sure you don’t roll your hips back.

other way. You can see these exercises

few centimetres and push them into

demonstrated on The Eventing

your abdomen while staying relaxed.

Physiologist’s YouTube channel.

Then pretend to cough. You will feel a

3. Activate your core

little tightening under your fingers which

A strong core is essential for a stable

is your core activating.”

position, but contrary to popular belief, it can’t be strengthened with sit-ups alone.

“Strengthening the superficial abdominal muscles won’t truly activate your core,

To recreate the feeling, think about bringing your belly button to your spine and tightening the front of your pelvic

as your core is actually several layers

region. Then practice activating your core

deep,” Natasha says. It’s important to

through your day-to-day activities: working

learn how to activate your core so that

out, brushing your teeth, waiting for the

it comes naturally when you ride, and

kettle to boil … anything! “That way,”

the good news is it doesn’t even require

Natasha says, “it becomes so automatic

hours of Pilates torture! (Although this

that you subconsciously activate it when

too is very beneficial).

you’re in the saddle. Then you can focus

slow, controlled step to the left before

To understand the sensation of

on every other aspect of riding instead of

stepping across with your right leg so

engaging your core, Natasha suggests

thinking ‘core, core, core’.”

For the second exercise, the crab walk, you will need a looped resistance band or Theraband. Place it around your legs at your knees and stand with your feet hip distance apart. Take a

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 43

xxx

Horses susceptible to laminitis should be removed from the paddock before 11:00am.

VET VIBES

Laminitis: the latest findings

E

quine laminitis (sometimes known as founder) is a complex, multifactorial syndrome that

manifests as pain and lameness in the feet.

The modern horse is bigger and heavier than its ancestor, the Prewejski horse, which stood at around 14.2hh.

However, hoof size has changed little over the millennia and the structure of the equine hoof today is very close to its mechanical limits, and has become a major focus for problems.

The latest research into laminitis has produced some interesting findings. Veterinarian DR. DOUG ENGLISH explains why laminitis is a more complex problem than was at first thought.

Essentially, laminitis is caused by a cascade of inflammatory and vascular reactions, which cause damage to the structure and function of the hoof’s suspensory apparatus: the lamellae

VET VIBES

attaching the distal phalanx (the last bone in the hoof) to the hoof wall. Such damage can be irreversible or take years to correct. When the horse stands, weight bears down on the attaching structure causing further problems.

The ideal fix is 100 per cent no weightbearing on hooves, which is, of course, unachievable as horses cannot lie flat for more than an hour or two.

Image courtesy of Hygain.

And before we go further, it may be useful to note that a disease and a

response syndrome (SIRS), rather than

reaction: it limits production of the

syndrome are not one and the same:

being a discrete disease entity.

neurotransmitter dopamine, which

a disease has a definite cause with distinguishing symptoms, while a syndrome is a group of symptoms that

In fact, the understanding of laminitis as a primary and severe disease of the

controls and limits the production of ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone)

basement membrane (the membrane

in the middle part of the pituitary gland,

providing cell and tissue support) in the

which then in turn is over secreted and

hoof, now needs to be revised. Current

stimulates excess cortisones from the

There are a number of symptoms that

data indicates that before symptoms

adrenal cortex.

suggest laminitis:

become evident, a variable phase

It’s the excess cortisone and resultant

Presents as lame

associated with gross changes in the

insulin dysregulation in horses with either

hoof capsule, along with stretching and

PPID or EMS that puts them at a higher

elongation of the lamellar cells, are an

risk of developing laminitis. Fortunately,

early and key event in the onset of

PPID can be treated with the drug

might not always have a definite cause.

Symptoms indicating laminitis

Reluctant to move Leans backwards to even up weight distribution, which is mostly on the front feet of a normal horse Sensitive when a hoof tester is applied to the toe Gross hoof wall abnormalities with a wide or divergent white line A flat sole

the disease.

as Prascend, a dopamine agonist

disease is now believed to be the

(the opposite of an antagonist) which

predominant form in horses presenting with

stimulates the production of the dopamine

lameness. Their insulin levels are several

necessary for restoring balance.

times higher, they have higher plasma

Risk factors

triglycerides, and higher body condition scores (in other words, they’re fat!).

Diverging rings

Insulin dysregulation

Laminitis is now considered to be a

Many of these cases are, but not

clinical syndrome associated with

necessarily, older horses with either

systemic diseases such as endocrine

PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia

disease, sepsis, or systemic inflammatory

Dysfunction or Equine Cushing’s) where the adrenal glands produce excess

A 2019 survey identified a number of risk factors associated with laminitis: Lack of regular daily exercise: standing in small areas is not conducive to good hoof health.

Historically, horses are athletes that moved in herds over wide areas, and

cortisone, or EMS (Equine Metabolic

they still need to continually move for

Syndrome) in which fat cells produce a

good health.

hormone that elevates cortisone levels, altering the normal insulin response and producing high levels of insulin and elevated blood glucose.

PPID is a disease of the pituitary gland caused by degeneration of the A laminitic horse will often lean backwards to redistribute weight away from their forelegs (Image courtesy Hygain).

pergolide, known in the marketplace

Laminitis associated with endocrine

hypothalamus, a part of the brain that plays a vital role in controlling many bodily functions. This degeneration sets off an unwelcome chain

Serious illness such as intestinal infection following major abdominal surgery Obesity Lack of exercise Genetic predisposition Previous history of laminitis High levels of cortisone from different causes E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 45

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VET VIBES

Avoid grazing susceptible horses where the grass is short as it has increased sugar.

Hoof care intervals greater than eight weeks Soreness following routine hoof care Seasonal increases in grass fructan: a major cause of laminitis is linked to seasonal increases in the concentration of grass fructans (chains of fructose molecules). Fructose is the monosaccharide sugar common in fruit, and the main sugar in honey.

of non-structural carbohydrates in a

up to 260 DP fructans (260 fructose

short period. Use a muzzle all of the

units) in Timothy. Fructans cannot

time or not at all. (See this issue’s Ask

be broken down by enzymes in the

an Expert for more on non-structural

small intestine and are fermented by

carbohydrates).

micro-organisms in the large intestine

Feeding ryegrass in pasture or hay.

Avoid grazing susceptible horses where the grass is short - it has increased sugar.

creating volatile fatty acids and lactate, with the potential for large amounts to cause acidosis resulting in laminitis.

The higher the DP, the greater the danger of laminitis.

Fructans like oligofructose increase

Most mammalian biochemistry cannot

during periods when grass can

Don’t miss our November/December

handle it in large amounts.

photosynthesise but can’t grow e.g.

issue, in which Dr Doug takes an expert

cold weather, water logging, drought.

look at mycotoxins and their implications

Laminitis and grazing grass The relationship between laminitis and

Fructans are reduced by topping or

grazing grass is complex, however a

cutting grass because the plant’s

number of causal factors have been

fructan stores are then used to

identified and should be kept in mind:

produce new leaves.

Access to pasture later in the day when photosynthesis from the sun has boosted its sugar content. Susceptible horses should be removed from the paddock before 11:00am, and not be put out until just before dawn.

Spending only short periods on grass educates the horse to eat too fast.

Use of grazing muzzles part time:

for laminitis.

Fructans tend to be highest at the start and the end of the growing season, particularly in regions with shorter growing seasons.

Polymerisation is the process in which small molecules combine to form chains. Fructans with lower degrees of polymerisation (DP) are likely to be more rapidly broken down than those with higher DPs. DP varies between

this causes compensatory eating and

species, from brome grass which has

the ingestion of substantial amounts

26 DP fructans (26 fructose units)

Use a grazing muzzle all of the time, or not at all.

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

F E AT U R E

Creating confidence With 19 years coaching experience CHRISTINE ARMISHAW, a 1* event rider and EA Level 1 Coach, knows a thing or two about rider confidence: how it gets lost, and where to find it.

A

s women returning to riding, we all remember the way it used to feel when we were fearless teenagers. Jumping whatever we could find lying around, racing friends and galloping across fields or down the beach. If somewhere along the way you happened to come unstuck from your mount, you just got up, dusted yourself off and hopped back on.

Then, when you returned to riding after a long break, be it due to career commitments, having children or perhaps coming back after an injury, you discovered a new mental component that apparently needed to be addressed.

Make a plan

Breathe a song

Before you get on, decide what it is

One of the first things to happen when

thinking brains seemed suddenly

you are going to do in this ride. Maybe

we get nervous is our breathing gets

pre-occupied with the future. If we came

you’ll practise flatwork, play over

shallow, leading to our body becoming

off the horse and hurt ourselves, we

trotting poles, or do some jump training.

tense and stiff. Your brain is deprived of

had other responsibilities that may be

Whatever it is, decide at the start. Then,

oxygen and you can’t think properly. A

affected, like work, kids and general life

make micro plans during your ride

fun way to keep yourself breathing as

duties. These common thought patterns

to stop yourself from aimlessly riding

turn us from gung-ho girls, into timid and

you ride is to sing a song out loud. One

around in circles, waiting for something

cautious ‘what if-ers’.

of my riders, Carina, sings a tune as she

to happen! It can be as simple as

mounts up and continues the song for

I personally have experienced this

deciding to walk half a circle, weave

the first couple of laps around the arena.

phenomenon more than once, after

through some cones, then trot back.

She finds it incredibly beneficial for

coming off horses and breaking my

Did it go well? If yes, great, if not, that’s

beating her pre-ride jitters and now does

arm and leg on separate occasions,

OK. But now you can try again and you

it every time she gets in the saddle. The

and even more so after having each of

have a way to evaluate your progress.

reason it works so well is simple – you

my two children. I only stopped riding

Always think one or two steps further

must breathe to sing. It keeps the oxygen

for the later part of both pregnancies

ahead in your ride than where you are

flowing, while allowing your brain to get

and was back in the saddle a few short

right now. This one tip alone will make

focused on something other than ‘what if’

months after my babies were born, so in

any ride much more productive and is

style thoughts. The flow-ons are that your

the grand scheme of things I didn’t have

great for building confidence, as it keeps

body also starts to relax, and it can even

a large amount of time off. However, it

your brain engaged and thinking ahead.

help relax your horse.

Having realised we weren’t invincible, our older, wiser and more forward-

wasn’t necessarily the length of time that was the biggest culprit, but the added level of responsibility I found myself laden with upon becoming a mother.

Nerves kicked in and I would start to feel apprehensive right before mounting up.

I was tentative about going too fast and a basic 60cm vertical out in my paddock seemed more like a Grand Prix show jump fence! One time, while jumping on my Thoroughbred Fanta, I got nervous and tensed up. We awkwardly jumped the fence and I promptly fell off over his right shoulder. I wasn’t hurt and Fanta just stopped and stood there looking at me on the ground - I think we were both as surprised as each other and I was cross with myself. That was a really significant moment for me. What made it a turning point was that yes, I acknowledged I was experiencing a level of anxiety, but no, I would not allow it to dictate or define me.

That’s where getting on top of your nerves begins, with acknowledging the feelings you are experiencing, then making a plan to move forward. Here are my top tips for dealing with nerves and re-building the confidence you know you had. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even find more than you had before.

ABOVE: With Myal High El Capitano on the downhill and over the wagon at Camden (Image by Tom Testone Photography).

LEFT: Christine coaching at her Oaks Sport Horses jump clinic (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia).

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

F E AT U R E

Christine and Myal High El Capitano in the dressage phase at Camden (Image by Ian Vaughn Photography).

LEFT: Discussing goals, challenges and making plans for this client to move forward (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshotaustralia).

Do it until it’s boring

for lots of situations: building up to a

nuts and pick holes in everything, just

When you’re trying to push yourself

canter - trot until it’s boring; jumping

pick one or two things to focus on for

to level-up, but you’re feeling the fear

baby cross rails - ride over poles on

the next couple of rides. They could

of the next step, wait. When my client

the ground until it’s boring; putting the

be sitting taller and keeping your legs

Sandy was feeling anxious about

jumps up - ride those tiny cross rails until

under your body, rather than toes out in

trotting her mare, even though she

it’s boring!

front of you; looking up and out, not just

really thought she should be doing it

Perfect practise makes perfect

down at your horse; or remembering to

by now, my advice was this: just walk.

Walk circles, lines, figure eights, through cones and over poles, until all that

After being out of the saddle for a while, or riding on your own with no

lift your chin, turn your head and actually look to see where you're going.

one guiding you, your position can get

Another great one is remembering to

sloppy. The easiest way to fix this is

keep your eyes up and look past the

simply knowing exactly what you wish

fence, not down at it, as you jump. At

to improve in the first place. If you can

every jump clinic I hold, this one comes

Interestingly, once you’ve done

bribe a child to come out and film part of

up multiple times. It’s much easier to pick

something for long enough with

your ride in exchange for TV time (yes,

a fixed point ahead to keep your eyes

repeated success, you can’t help but

I’m guilty of this), it can be incredibly

on, like a fence post or a tree, rather than

want to try a little more. This can work

useful to do a self-critique. Don’t go

just saying ‘don’t look down’. Rachel, who

walking gets boring. Taking the pressure off yourself subconsciously opens your mind up.

50 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

F E AT U R E

came along to a recent clinic was amazed

pack all the right gear. Leave the added

Don’t let other people define your

at how much this one simple change in

excitement of actually competing for a

success, it looks different for everyone.

position positively altered her balance

later date.

You may wish to get back to the level

and improved her confidence.

Set up for success

When I run low level jump clinics, the

you previously competed at, or you might want to stick to pleasure riding.

riders are feeling nervous, excited and

Either is OK because riding is supposed

oftentimes are not sure how their horses

to be fun! Your goals might include

will react in the new environment. By

cantering around an open field, hitting

the end of the session, the ladies are

the trails with friends again, or being

laughing, their horses are relaxed and

able to ride out with your kids. No matter

going in a more balanced way, and

the destination, remember the joy of

everyone has two or three things they

horses comes from the journey they

first. You will already be taking your

can go home to continue working on.

take you on.

horse off the property, riding with other

It might take a few outings to get really

Want to hop on board her next clinic?

strange horses in an unfamiliar setting,

comfortable riding to your best ability off-

Contact Christine by email

and having to deal with the pressures of

property, but this is the mental space you

christinearmishaw@gmail.com, or search

float loading, traffic, and remembering to

want to be planning a competition from.

Facebook for Christine Armishaw Equestrian.

On your quest to build confidence you do need little goals that push you out of your comfort zone, but set yourself and your horse up to be as successful as possible. Before heading out to your first dressage day or jump competition, aim to attend a clinic or training day

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

52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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silhouette of their original Spring

foot, steel shanks, and hidden elastic

making quality riding wear, and the

River boot to create an ergonomically

gussets along the shaft. Adhering to the

family-run company Mountain Horse is

designed offering that’s seriously

strong Mountain Horse aesthetic, the

legendary for its much-loved boots and

fashionable and wearable anywhere.

innovative line of equestrian apparel.

Premium full grain leather and a

Lars Sjosward founded the company

chunky shock-absorbing sole unite for

in 1988 with one product: the world-

a utilitarian, understated aesthetic that

famous Winter Boot, created to keep

doesn’t lack character. Like a fine wine,

being outside with our horses.

With riding hours still at a premium, it’s important to make the minutes count, and one sure-fire way to ensure that is to invest in a great pair of riding boots.

his young daughter Catherina’s feet warm while she was riding in freezing temperatures. The success of this signature product jumpstarted the company and was soon followed by two international bestsellers: the riding shoe (a basketball style sneaker with a heel) and the waterproof riding coat (a lightweight alternative to oilskin).

VertyCore™ sole is lightweight and slip resistant, with shock-absorbing qualities that enhance both function and comfort.

The memory foam footbed cushions the sole of your foot, helping to reduce foot fatigue so you can ride better for longer.

they get better with age, developing a beautiful patina with wear and conforming over time to the contours of your foot and leg.

Built to last, and last beautifully, purchasing a pair represents a sound investment.

Whether you’re looking for something practical to keep your feet dry over winter, or a pair of showstoppers made for more, the Mountain Horse Wild River range might just transform

How about performance?

your equestrian

brand is well-known in equestrian circles.

Of course, the best riding

lifestyle and prove

The company produces a full range of

boots must

to be as functional

clothing and accessories, all in the same

mix form and

as they are

Swedish village in which it began.

function, and

fashionable.

Thirty years on, the Mountain Horse

the aesthetics of

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

NUTRITION

Feeding cool fuel

A

s prey animals, horses are naturally perceptive to potential dangers and will prime

themselves for flight instinctively. A horse’s tendency towards hot or anxious behaviour is influenced by breed and genetics, life experience and training, as well as the type and amount of feed ingested. Identifying possible diet-related causes of altered behaviour is a critical first

Equine nutritionist LARISSA BILSTON explains why nutrition can influence hot or anxious behaviour and what you can do to minimise the problem.

stage in determining the best nutritional strategy for long-term management of a horse’s health and behaviour.

Nutritional factors that can underpin changed behaviour in horses include:

NUTRITION

for ‘play’. The key to avoiding exuberant

soy, or lupin hulls), oilseed meals, or oil.

misbehaviour is to match calories

Feeding lucerne just prior to exercise is

consumed with calories burned.

also recommended to buffer stomach

The amount of hard feed a horse needs varies according to the sugar and

acid and prevent splash burning the squamous region of the stomach.

starch (calorie) content of the forage

Hindgut acidosis occurs when high

and the horse’s requirement for body

levels of undigested starch and sugar

maintenance, growth and workload.

overflow into the caecum and colon.

Changes in pasture or hay quality are

Microbial fermentation of sugar and

not always visible, so it is important to

starch in the hindgut creates more acidic

regularly monitor your horse’s body

volatile fatty acids than those produced

condition for signs that they are gaining

by fibre fermentation, which can cause

or losing weight. Then increase or

ulcers in the gut lining.

decrease the size of the hard feed in

Hindgut acidosis can occur suddenly,

response to changes in workload and

when horses are turned out onto a

body condition score.

fresh paddock of lush, high sugar

High sugar or starch intake

pasture for example, or after the quick

Although many working horses perform well on grain-based hard feeds, some are prone to hot behaviour and become easily excited or nervous on high sugar or high starch diets. The reasons for this are largely unknown but are likely due

introduction of high starch hard feeds.

Chronic hindgut acidosis occurs when horses are fed large meals of high starch ingredients which can’t all be absorbed in the small intestine and are fermented in the hindgut.

to spiking blood sugar and elevated pro-

Minimise the risk of hind gut acidosis

inflammatory cytokine levels and/or gut

by feeding every six hours with a meal

issues related to the microbiome via the gut-brain axis, or pain caused by gastric ulcers or hind gut acidosis.

A horse’s tendency towards hot or anxious behaviour can be influenced by the type and amount of feed ingested.

BELOW: Hulls from the lupin are one of the low GI ‘super fibre’ feeds.

Gut-related pain The pain caused by gastric ulcers in both the squamous (upper) and glandular (lower) regions of the stomach can cause poor or changed behaviour.

Gastroscopy is required for a correct

Overfed, underworked High starch or sugar intake Gut-related pain

diagnosis, and the treatment protocol depends on ulcer severity and the affected region of the stomach. Lifestyle and dietary changes are usually necessary for successful management of

Mycotoxin ingestion

gastric ulcers.

Microbiome and the gut-brain axis

Horses prone to ulcers need free choice

Dietary deficiencies and mineral

access to forage (unless overweight).

imbalance.

Overfed, underworked

Cereal hay, chaff, and cereal grains including barley, wheat, oats, corn, millrun, bran and pollard should be

Overfeeding of hard feeds is one of the

avoided. Also avoid feeds with added

most common causes of hyperactive

molasses or honey – so read bag labels

behaviour in horses. When horses

carefully. Choose low GI hard feeds by

consume more calories than they use

mixing your own or looking for premixed

in a day, they will store some excess

feeds made from legume grains (e.g.

energy as body fat, and use some of it

lupins), 'super fibres' (like beet pulp, E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55

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NUTRITION

that’s below 500 grams per 100 kg of horse bodyweight, and limit access to high sugar grass (especially lush

Unless overweight, horses prone to ulcers need free choice access to forage.

new shoots in autumn and spring, or following a frost). Research shows that the addition of protected forms of the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae stabilizes hindgut pH and maintains a more diverse microbiome. Buffers such as bicarbonates that are protected until they reach the hindgut are another useful tool when starch and sugar intakes cannot be reduced sufficiently.

Mycotoxin ingestion Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by bacteria and fungi growing on forage and grains. They can be present in pastures and grains pre- and post-harvest as well as in hays and silage. After ingestion, mycotoxins can negatively impact gastrointestinal function, disrupting the intestinal mucosa and the microbiome before being absorbed and causing neurological symptoms and organ damage.

The symptoms of mycotoxin load in horses depend on many factors including the type and amount of toxin present and the individual's immunity or tolerance to mycotoxins. It is not unusual for one horse in a paddock to be much more affected than others. Symptoms of mycotoxin issues affecting the nervous system may include: Unpredictable, irritable, or spooky behaviour, out of character for the horse's temperament General crabbiness when ridden, pinning ears, swishing tail, kicking out Girthiness, not standing for saddling/ mounting

Adding a broad-spectrum mycotoxin

balance of gut microbial species (as

binder to the feed can help to address

occurs during emotional or physical

these issues. Options to reduce

stress) has been demonstrated to cause

exposure to mycotoxins can include

behavioural change in some species.

Tight, tense, impulsive flight response

limiting grazing hours or removing

Head shyness and sensitivity to touch,

horses from affected pastures during

noise or sudden movement Aggressiveness towards people or horses Hormonal behaviour in mares and

certain times of the year.

Microbiome and the gut-brain axis

Animals treated with probiotics have measurably lower levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone.

Scientists believe that supplementation with probiotics to improve digestive

Exciting new research is emerging to

comfort is a plausible strategy for

demonstrate the significant influence of

behaviour modification in horses.

Separation anxiety

the gut microbial population on animal

Supplementation with live yeast

Head shaking or flicking.

health and behaviour. Disruption to the

Saccharomyces cerevisiae or certain

‘riggy’ behaviour in geldings

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

WHY BUY AND SELL THOUGH THE SADDLE HUB? þ BUY ONLINE SAFELY Secure payments with no risk of being scammed.

þ NO SURPRISES Confidence that saddles listed are described accurately, photographed honestly and the model you pay for is the one you get.

þ PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Helpful, friendly saddle advice and service from our team before and after your purchase.

þ MORE WAYS TO PAY Wide range of payment options to suit your budget and finances getting you in a new saddle sooner.

þ LOW RISK We inspect saddles, provide an accurate description and reject any that are not suitable for sale. You won’t receive a saddle with unexpected or undisclosed damage or blemishes.

Lactobacillus bacterial species maintains the natural diversity of hindgut bacterial populations. This keeps hindgut pH more stable, potentially avoiding behaviour modifying deficiencies in the vitamins and amino acids normally provided by a healthy hindgut microbiome.

Dietary deficiencies and mineral imbalance When a horse’s body lacks essential nutrients, behavioural and neurological symptoms commonly referred to as grass-affected behaviour can occur.

For example, grass tetany and staggers can be caused by an imbalance in the macrominerals sodium, magnesium,

þ TRIAL FOR 14 DAYS We want to make sure you and your horse get the right fit and love your new saddle.

nitrogen and potassium.

Dr Thomas Swerczek, a veterinary pathologist at the University of Kentucky says that supplement changes may be necessary when horses graze

For buying or selling contact info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au 58 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

stressed pasture forages, especially grass in the spring and autumn when cold-stress and drought stress occurs.

The use of herbicides also dramatically stresses grass pastures. The levels of

NUTRITION

Enjoy FLEXIBLE payment solutions at The Saddle Hub Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by bacteria and fungi and can be present in pastures and hays.

potassium and nitrate spike in stressed

The B group vitamins are important for

plants, while sodium declines in pasture

energy metabolism and nervous system

forages. Excessive potassium and nitrate

function. Signs of deficiency include

can be corrected by adequate salt in

decreased appetite and increased

the diet, both as a preventive and when

irritability. The gut microbial population

symptoms are acutely occurring.

is responsible for production of much of the vitamin B that horses require,

Calcium and magnesium levels need to

so horses under emotional or physical

be balanced to maintain normal muscle

stress require a vitamin B supplement.

contraction and relaxation. Ensuring correct dietary balance between calcium, phosphorous and magnesium is critical to optimise uptake and avoid painfully tight muscles after work. There is no scientific evidence to support

Scientists have found that DHA and EPA, the marine-sourced omega-3 fatty acids, can improve cognitive function in humans. Research from many species demonstrates that DHA is essential for normal brain development before and

the use of excessively high levels

after birth. New work is linking EPA to

magnesium or calcium in any form as a

mood and behaviour. Perhaps in future

‘calmer’ or to improve brain function or

we will see research linking marine-

reduce excitability. A high oxalate intake

sourced omega-3 supplementation to

from some C4 pasture species including

improved horse behaviour and learning.

kikuyu, setaria and buffel grass is a common cause of calcium deficiency.

Larissa Bilston, BAgrSc (Hons 1), is a

Many diets lack adequate magnesium

nutritionist with Farmalogic. You’ll find

to achieve an optimal calcium to

a full length version of this informative

magnesium ratio, creating a need for

article in our VIP area. Log in to www.

magnesium oxide supplementation.

equestrianhub.com.au/vip-member/

O

lympic event rider Megan Jones has horses running through her veins. Her greatest equestrian

F E AT U R E

It’s a balancing act

achievements are her silver medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and coming an individual fourth at the same Games – made even more special because it was with Kirby Park Irish Jester (Festy) a homebred horse. “I was the first person to breed, break in, train and medal, all on

Megan Jones is an Olympic eventer, wife, and mother of one. She recently spoke to CHRISTINE ARMISHAW about pregnancy, juggling family and horses, and how she keeps things running smoothly with a human foal at foot.

their own horse at an Olympic Games,” recalls Megan with a smile.

Megan was away competing on the weekend Festy was born. “In fact, my sister nabbed him before me because she was there at the time,” Megan says.

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Finnley, happily stealing Megan’s limelight since 2019 (all images PYT Equestrian Photography).

LEFT: Queen of the team, Kirby Park Impress always gives everything she’s got.

“She had him for a couple of years

two – I thought we better start actually

Throughout her pregnancy Megan

before he was broken in, but then she

doing this!” she laughs.

stayed busy and kept riding, after all

stopped riding and kinda lost interest, so her horses became mine.” Little did Megan’s sister know that young Festy was going to take her dedicated sibling all the way to the top.

When Megan did fall pregnant, it was still a bit of a surprise for the couple.

“We went overseas for a quick trip to the UK for a week, where they flew us around by helicopter to look at horses

Alongside that, Megan has many other

between England and Ireland. I was

equestrian accomplishments to be proud

sick the whole time we were there. I get

of, like a team bronze at the 2006 Aachen

really motion sick from flying anyway so

World Championship and winning the

I thought that that’s what the issue was,

Anna Savage Best and Fairest Award

but it was actually morning sickness, and

three times, just to name a few. However,

I had no idea.”

Megan’s achievements don’t stop with horses. She is also a wife to husband James and, more recently, a proud mother of two-and-a-half-year-old Finnley.

When the couple found out that they were pregnant a month or so later, they kept it under wraps for as long as possible, which led to many an awkward

“this was a baby for James. He could play with it and I’d just keep riding my horses,” she recalls of her thoughts at the time. “I didn’t compete, though I was still riding five or six a day and still jumping at home. I told myself the safe option was to show jump in the arena and to not cross country school. But if I was to have another, not that I am, I wouldn’t ride as much as I did last time, or for as long,” she concedes.

Megan stopped riding only about seven weeks before she had Finnley. “I was so small though, and he stayed really, really high,” she says. Her obstetrician decided she should have a caesarean, a decision

Megan is the first to admit that as far as

stare coupled with blaring silences.

having kids goes, she wasn’t previously

“We trucked ten horses interstate to an

clucky. “I never really had a burning

interschool competition for a group of

desire to have a child. Maternally, I felt

parents. On the second day of the comp

pretty fulfilled with teaching all my young

it was a bit hot, so I had to take off my

When the big day came James was

students, as well as breeding my own

big puffer jacket and just had a t-shirt

arguably the more concerned of the

foals,” she says. But James had always

on. You could tell I looked a bit like I’d

two. “He was standing at the back door

wanted a family at some point, which

eaten all the pies,” laughs Megan. But of

waiting and I pulled up on the quad bike

Megan was totally on board with. “Then,

course, no one wanted to be the person

with blood all over my hands because

as I was getting a bit older – I was forty-

to mistakenly ask if she was with child!

I’d had to go cut some proud flesh off

he didn’t take lightly, because he felt Megan was ‘too old and too strong’ from riding to safely deliver on her own.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61

62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

F E AT U R E

With RLE Barina at the Adelaide International, one of Megan’s favourite 3D events. a horse before I left,” she recounts, cracking up. “He’s saying ‘Megan, we’re going to be late, this is non-negotiable!

nature took the helm and Megan needn’t have been concerned. “Once they got him out and showed me his little face, I

and then she took him everywhere she went. “I’d be breastfeeding while doing jump lessons, squatting down to change

You’re having a baby, get in the car!’ I’m

the height of the jump and all that kind

late for everything and James is having a

of stuff. He just hung out with me,” she

complete breakdown while I tell him ‘I’ll be there in a minute, just gotta wash my hands and get changed’,” says Megan, who’s got us both in fits of laughter at this point. “So, three hours later when we finally got to the hospital my doctor said ‘wow, you actually turned up, I can’t believe it, I thought maybe you would have missed the day’.”

Although outwardly casual about the

Once they got him out and showed me his little face, I was gone! I was like, mine, mine, mine, don’t come near him, he’s mine!

whole affair, Megan shares some of her inner feelings from that time. “I was really scared about not having a traditional birth, and whether I’d get enough of the right hormones to make me fall in love with the child. I’d been so non-maternal the whole time, was this going to be a disaster or what?” But

says. Clearly, there was no way this baby was ‘just for James’ once he’d arrived!

Now, nearly three years later, horses are still an integral part of life and this professional equestrian has continued to keep the show running like a well-oiled machine. Megan captains a tight ship, the success of which is down in no small part to the day-to-day running of the Megan Jones Eventing Team. With the help of three grooms she works eight horses

was gone! I was like, mine, mine, mine, don’t come near him, he’s mine!” And I can hear the love in her voice as she shares this sweet memory.

Finnley slotted right in. Megan had a few weeks off while bonding with her son,

a day. “I usually get on the first horse at 6:00am, ride ‘til 11:30am and then teach throughout the afternoon into the evening,” she tells me. “I’ve had to adjust how much I can ride based on how much more mobile Finnley has become as he’s gotten older. But we just timetable it.”

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

Job Vacancy: Stud Hand – Yearling

Join Megan Jones Live & Online Authentic Equestrian

AN 8 WEEK PROGRAM Open to all riders, all levels and all ages Course: Live interactive weekly sessions (zoom) Eight topics with weekly tasks Private Facebook group

Baramul Stud, located in the historically rich Widden Valley, is one of the largest privately-owned breeding enterprises in Australia.

Ask questions directly with Megan Training – horse and rider:

– Min of 12 months experience on a commercial stud farm or equiv.

Build connection

– Experience preparing and developing young horses is paramount.

Increase confidence

– Strong horsemanship skills and working knowledge of how to prepare horses for sale.

Discover the 4C's

On the job training will be provided. Attractive salary package to commensurate your skills and experience, including on-farm accommodation with negotiable horse agistment if required to continue your own hobbies and passion.

For more information contact us on 02 6547 0506.

Send your resume to baramul@baramulstud.com.au

"Megan's astute knowledge of her craft is infectious. Her skills outstanding. I'm learning so much from the weekly zooms."

Carolyn, Australia

Next course starts soon!

Scan QR code to learn more Call Megan 0417 858 371

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64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

Photo Credit Jade Findlay

F E AT U R E

Between her, James and the stable girls, the crew have got it under control.

The whole team has Mondays off and Finnley is home with Mum and Dad, where they enjoy time in each other's company. On Tuesdays and Thursdays it’s day care, while on Wednesdays Finn gets to hang out with his cousin at Megan’s parents. The boys are of similar age, so it’s great fun for them both. Friday is often comp day and the whole family bundles into the truck before hitting the road together for the weekend.

When he’s home, Finn goes to cross country lessons with Megan, or ‘helps’ James with farm jobs. “You’ve just got to be a changing beast, you know,” she says. The family simply figure it out and make it work and, if Megan can’t ride for some reason, her awesome girls are able to exercise the horses.

So she gets maximum bang for her time available buck, Megan swears by following a few time-saving rules, like washing manes pre-ride so they air dry before rugging the horse back up, and having the ultimate travel kit for super speedy comp preparation.

ABOVE: Guhr, a rising star Megan hopes to 4* with next season.

BELOW: Toulando lapping up some serious attention.

It’s safe to say that maternal instinct definitely kicked in. “I thought I’d feel really guilty if I couldn’t ride and had to look after a sick child or something. But there’s never an ounce of guilt, he comes first,” Megan says. What’s more, she thinks that the horses are now going better with more days of lunging and hacking out with her girls instead of schooling all the time.

“It hasn’t affected the training of the horses or anything like that,” she smiles.

“A lot of people tell you that life changes so much when you have a child, but it only changes a lot if you let it.”

Sounds like a new family member for the win.

Stay tuned for our podcast with Megan when she’ll share her industry secret, top time saving tips, including what goes in that travel kit and her favourite Bunnings hack! To listen, jump on over to our VIP area.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65

Saddle balance low behind (chair seat).

All images courtesy of The Saddlefitter.

H

orse ownership is a demanding and complex pursuit. As responsible horse

SADDLE UP

When to call the fitter

owners we must ensure the wellbeing of our charges, which encompasses everything from the worming regime we use, foot care, pasture management and more. And if we choose to ride our horses, we must also ensure that they are comfortable in their saddles.

Research from the UK suggests that to achieve optimum saddle fit, saddles

If you’re unsure whether you, your saddle, and your horse are a good fit for each other, it may be time to call the saddle fitter.

KATHRYN SULLIVAN-BUTT shares her expert advice on some saddle fitting basics.

should be checked a minimum of three or four times a year to address the changes in our horse’s shape through the seasons, the needs of the rider, and the wear of the saddle. If you’re not calling on the expert advice of your fitter quite so regularly, then as riders we need to

SADDLE UP

ABOVE: White hairs in the trapezius are a sign your saddle may need adjusting or is wrong for your horse. know: a) how to assess any changes to saddle fit that might have occurred; and b) when an appointment with our

ABOVE: Uneven sweat patterns or ruffles.

Soft swellings on the spine which occur after saddle removal.

Muscle atrophy, especially at the

saddle fitter is necessary to prevent small

trapezius and where the rear of the

concerns becoming big issues.

saddle panel sits.

So what aspects of saddle fit should we be checking before calling out our saddle fitter? These indicators fall into three categories: the horse, the saddle, and the rider.

The horse Saddle fit problems can manifest as behavioural issues on the part of the horse, biomechanical restrictions, and pain due to focal pressure points. The following are signals to be aware of as they may indicate your horse is having issues with the fit of your saddle (although it’s important to note that most

Muscle hypertrophy especially at the loin.

Rub marks, swelling, and galls in the girth region.

Short stepping behind or lack of lateral shoulder movement.

Inability to bend around the rider’s leg.

out behind and bucking.

Holding their breath under saddle

The saddle the horse and rider. If your saddle is

Uneven sweat marks with ruffling and

being worn unevenly (either in the seat,

saddling: shifting weight, trying to bite, pulling back, unusual stretching, and facial expressions that exhibit pain.

White hairs in the saddle and girth region.

down on the saddle, and even a change in stance due to injury to the horse. As a rider, standing back and assessing your saddle balance (girthed up) when your horse is on a flat surface and is standing BELOW: Uneven panel contact affects both horse and rider and can be improved with correct saddle fit.

Our saddles are a reflection of both

be the cause):

becomes agitated on girthing up and

weight fluctuations, panels packing

Stopping and refusing to go forward.

fit, and may therefore require further

‘Girthiness’ – when the horse

changes for many reasons: our horse’s

while ridden.

Unable to rein back in diagonal pairs.

dry patches.

Saddle balance from front to back

Tail swishing, head tossing, kicking

of these can be unrelated to saddle investigation if saddle fit proves not to

Our saddles are a reflection of both the horse and rider.

the panel or in the flaps) it could be an indicator that the saddle is not sitting square, or that changes need to be made. If your saddle is wearing quickly, your saddle fitter can advise on correct leather care to ensure the longevity of your valuable purchase, and can also check the safety of your stirrup leathers, points and stitching.

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

SADDLE UP

Lateral postural issues in the saddle can be addressed with saddle fit.

square is a good habit to acquire,

may indicate that our saddle balance is

The wrong twist (the narrow waist in the

because your saddle balance will need

incorrect, and that the compensatory

saddle seat), seat size, and knee block

to be addressed if it changes. Ask your

action of our position to maintain balance

can all greatly affect how you sit as a

fitter to help you develop an eye for that

is fatiguing us and causing pain. Lower

rider, as well as your comfort and your

optimum balance. A saddle sitting low in

back pain is particularly common with

ability to effectively and safely ride your

front or behind will affect the comfort of horse and rider.

In the same way a saddle that is sitting off to the side will lead to pressure inequality and focal pressure points for the horse, as well as an uneven platform with potential long term issues for the rider.

The rider

horse. An experienced saddle fitter can

Lower back pain is particularly common with saddles sitting low in front.

help you to select the correct saddle shape for your body type.

For riders who are returning from injury, your saddle fitter can assist you to balance correctly in the saddle so you will not adversely affect your horse.

Riders recovering from injury often shift

Riding is a sport that increases core

saddles sitting low in front. A collapsed

in the saddle and sit to one side, and

strength, and good riding should allow us

postural position and ‘chair seat’ is

there are techniques that help to keep

to build fitness and strength. However,

typically associated with a saddle sitting

the saddle straight so the horse will not

if riding leads to back soreness this

low behind.

be hurt while the rider recovers.

68 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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Erreplus Elena 17"

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Devoucoux Makila Lab 18"

$5,250

Peter Horobin SF Geneva 17.5"

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Frank Baines Union Lux 17.5"

$2,000

$2,400

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

SADDLE UP

The effect of incorrect saddle balance on rider posture.

Discomfort in the saddle Many riders suffer in silence with pubic and seat pain. The right saddle, sometimes even just the right adjustments to your current saddle, can make all the difference to comfort in the pelvic region while you’re riding.

For women riding through pregnancy, or for those who are postmenopausal there

Rider balance point forward and even.

For women riding through pregnancy, or for those who are postmenopausal there are significant changes that can affect comfort in the saddle – and ladies, if you are experiencing discomfort then it is definitely time to call your saddle fitter. to achieve. Without an optimal position

The right fitter becomes an important

from the rider, the horse will be

part of your team as you work together

compromised and unable to perform

to ensure maximum comfort and

definitely time to call your saddle fitter.

at its best.

optimum performance.

Rider position is intrinsically linked

Finally, choosing the right fitter is an

to the balance and fit of your saddle.

important consideration. Selecting a

Kathryn Sullivan-Butt is an EA & AHRC

We all aspire to the willowy strength

fitter who is experienced in your brand

coach with over 20 years’ experience,

and classical position of the top riders,

of saddle, and who carries the correct

an Australian and internationally trained

but if the saddle is not working for

hardware to address required changes

saddle fitter, and a Society of Master

you optimally then achieving an ideal

makes a significant difference to the

Saddlers Qualified Fitter. She can be

position will be hard, if not impossible

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

The HERO program is a Harness Racing Victoria initiative established in 2015 to assist in creating pathways for retired standardbreds and provide support in their transition from the racetrack to pleasure or performance horses.

With over 10 HERO Recognised Retrainers based all throughout Victoria the HERO program is well equipped to provide ample opportunities for standardbred life after racing.

To learn more about HERO, visit www.hrvhero.com.au or follow HRV HERO on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For all inquiries please email hero@hrv.org.au or phone 0411 499 051.

The HERO program is proudly supported by

Below are just a few of our off-the-track standardbred horses currently going through the retraining process. For further information on any of these horses, please contact their retrainer.

JASMINE

$2,500

Age: 14

Height: 15.2hh

Sex: Mare

Location: Katatmatite

Retrainer: Marzel Park

Contact: Nicole Touzel  0409 646 390

Jasmine is the ideal all rounder. She is unraced with an established trot and canter. Working kindly in a frame with a beautiful soft mouth, happy to jump and enjoys going out in the bush. She is easily handled and ridden by a 12yo girl. Standing at 15.2hh & 14yo, this eye-catching girl with a beautiful way of going is sure to get noticed in any discipline or out on the trails.

MAJESTIC REIGN “REIGN”

$2,000

Age: 12

Height: 15hh

Sex: Mare

Location: Garfield

Retrainer: Forest View Thoroughbreds

Contact: Amanda Porter  0417 622 329

Majestic Reign retired from her successful racing career after having 14 starts for 8 wins. She is a sweet, kind little mare, well put together, has scarring on near-side hind but this does not affect her. She had 3 foals after her racing career before moving on to her new life under saddle. Reign is currently green broken to saddle and deserves a family to love and dote on her. She is wonderful with other horses, very gentle to be around.

BIG GUN JOHNNY “JOHNNY”

$2,000

Age: 7

Height: 16.1hh

Sex: Gelding

Location: Mount Duneed

Retrainer: Shory Park

Contact: Nikki Cook  0421 506 215

Formerly trained by Mitch Fox of Fox Equestrian Johnny has been started professionally and correctly from an extremely well-regarded show stable.

Johnny has attended a number of shows and always brings home a ribbon.

Johnny was put out for a short spell and has been brought back into work by the team at Shory Park. Johnny is a very good doer, it would be fabulous to see this boy continue with his show career, already winning broad sashes at just his first outings. Johnny would best suit a confident rider wanting a performance horse. He is not a beginner or nervous rider’s type. A lovely chunk of horse looking for a special home.

All HRV HERO horses come with two complimentary riding lessons with the closest HERO Recognised Retrainer to the purchaser, a FREE membership to Standardbred Pleasure and Performance Horse Association of Victoria, and horse registration for the first year.

To view more of our HEROs in training, please visit our website www.hrvhero.com.au and click on 'Available horses'.

O

ver the months we’ve had some exciting glimpses into the great work being done around

LIFE AFTER RACING

Australia to retrain and rehome off the track Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds

New lives, new stories

– oftentimes with spectacular results.

And no less exciting are the success stories emerging from Off The Track NSW Inc (OTT NSW Inc). Located in Coffs Harbour, and generously supported by Country Racing Syndications, the organisation is run by a team of dedicated Thoroughbred

It’s probably fair to say that few horses are as misunderstood as the retired racehorse.

Often labelled as difficult, anxious, and unpredictable, AMANDA MAC discovered that that’s a long way from the truth.

enthusiasts under the guidance of committee president Cheryl Lantry.

With a life-long connection to the racing industry, Cheryl retrained more OTT's than she can remember prior to obtaining her racing NSW trainers’ licence.

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

“Thoroughbreds are bold, intelligent,

Starting their show season in led

Another OTT NSW Inc member,

versatile, athletic horses, and our aim

classes only, Megan was rewarded

Samantha Croft of Clark & Croft

is to increase the number of owners

with Supreme Led at their first show.

Bloodstock has a similarly interesting

prepared to take on an OTT racehorse,”

However, although Geron proved to be

tale to tell about her OTT Arrow, a

she tells me. “The transition from racing

very quiet in training, he was also lazy.

Thoroughbred that she had sold as a

to performance or pleasure horse can

“I could see why he never won a race,” Megan laughs.

yearling. Thinking he would make a

be extremely rewarding, and the end result can secure a life of care for the

During his first few months under saddle,

career and every time he ran an

Thoroughbred post racing.”

Geron won the 2017 Queensland Show

ordinary race, Samantha was quick to

Horse Council Large Hack Rising Star,

let his owner know she was interested

and has since won many champion hack

in buying him back. When Arrow was

classes, including Champion Ridden

eventually retired from racing at the end

Thoroughbred at Toowoomba Royal,

of 2016, she more than happily brought

Case in point is the story of OTT Baribo.

Owned by OTT NSW Inc member Jolene Cole, Baribo’s previous career as a racehorse was, to put it mildly, less than stellar. But he hit his stride as an endurance horse when in 2019 the pair won the heavyweight division in

Grand Champion Off The Track NSW, and of course, Grand Champion Star of All Stars at OTT NSW Inc’s recent show.

Australia’s most prestigious endurance

For Megan, one of the best things

race, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup. So if

about owning and retraining an OTT

you thought Arabians were the only poster pin-ups for endurance, better think again! Jolene says Baribo has remarkable stamina “an ability to recover and go all day … it’s an honour to own and ride him.” Looks like Baribo found his forever home.

Thoroughbred is the family that comes with them – the stud manager, trainer,

lovely hack, she followed his racing

him home.

She remembers only getting in a few weeks of part-time training with Arrow before their first outing at the 2017 Inverell Show. While that proved to be a little early in Arrow’s new career to be

track work rider, even the person who

successful, the pair had a lot of fun and

foaled them down. “You don’t just get a

their partnership blossomed. Samantha

horse, you get a family and a history. My

says Arrow’s show name is now Cupid's

journey with Geron has been the best

Arrow, probably down to the fact that

thing that has ever happened to me.

she’s “completely love struck” by her

He’s my heart horse,” she says.

OTT protégé.

Most horses retiring from racing are eminently suitable for a career in one of the many disciplines celebrated during OTT NSW Inc events. “Currently we stage show jumping, dressage, showing,

LEFT: Simone Bullock and Urrac (L), with Melinda Bullock and Stratums Express enjoyed Fashions Off The Field (Image by Chris Miller Photography).

BELOW: Jockey Belinda Hodder presenting Megan and Geron with their Grand Champion Star of All Stars prizes (Image by Chris Miller Photography).

rider and in hand classes,” Cheryl says.

“We recently held our Championship show and there were numerous entries in each discipline, with competitors travelling from Canberra, Mudgee, Sydney, Tamworth and Tweed Heads.”

One of those competitors was Megan Perrin. Five years ago she began retraining Geron, an OTT retired from the track for being too slow. She saw him for sale on Facebook, and although not looking for a new horse, decided that if he hadn’t sold within 24 hours, he was meant for her. “So I bought an ex race horse sight unseen through Facebook!” she says. But fortunately, it was love at first sight. Very wisely, Megan began Geron’s education slowly, starting with a six month let down to give them time to develop a bond free of pressure.

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

that’s extremely rewarding if you’re properly educated and prepared for the transition,” she explains.

In her considerable experience, starting slowly and giving the horse time to learn simple tasks and get accustomed to a variety of new situations, as well as having the patience to wait until they’re mentally and physically ready before progressing to the next level, can be a deciding factor in the horse’s future.

Trying to rush an OTT along can result in a horse that’s not properly prepared for its new life, and is instead confused and uncomfortable. “Worried horses that have been thrown in the deep end Jolene Cole and Baribo won the 2019 heavyweight division in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup (Image by Denise Keelan Photography).

might result in them being labelled as a problem or unsuitable,” Cheryl says, “then the horse’s welfare and future

Thoroughbreds can be very versatile,

in cross training all her horses so they

can be at risk as the chance of them

one of the reasons that Samantha and

rarely get ridden in the same place, or

finding a new and secure forever

Arrow were able to take out second

always do the same thing, which keeps

home diminishes.”

place in the hack ring, followed by a

it fresh and fun for everyone.

But with care, patience and a pinch of

While these and many other re-homing

love, you could very well discover your

success stories are heart-warming,

new heart horse.

second in show jumping at the OTT NSW Inc show. But away from the glamour of the show ring, Arrow’s home life includes mustering cattle,

Cheryl makes the point that re-training an OTT Thoroughbred can sometimes

You can catch up with Off The Track

in a few little quirks, one of which is

be more complex than starting a young

NSW Inc at www.offthetracknsw.org.

shying enthusiastically at threats real

horse. “Taking a Thoroughbred horse

au and if you dream of giving an OTT

and imagined. So to give him something

off the track and giving it a new life

Thoroughbred a new life, contact Cheryl

else to think about, Samantha decided

and purpose will take you on a journey

and her team for more information.

jumping logs, flat work and indulging

to teach him to jump. Not only did he love it, it turned out that he had a real talent. “Unfortunately he still can't be

Second in the Tamworth Aelec Winter Championships, Samantha and Arrow show off their versatility (Image by Oz Shotz Photography).

lead back to his paddock without seeing monsters. But so be it, no one's perfect!” she laughs. “He’s been a challenge at times, but I have never had intentions of selling him.”

Life on a busy property includes stock work, so from the very beginning Arrow had to learn to carry sheep, “much to his horror and mine as I'm trying to lift them up that high,” Samantha jokes. But he has some handy additional talents and can cut an escapee crossbred lamb from a mob better than the farm dogs or bike, so that’s become one of his jobs around the farm. That said, Samantha believes 76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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S

ince the nineteenth century the Haflinger has made its mark in science, sport and industry; during

HORSE BREED

wars and in times of peace.

Named after Hafling, a village in the

The Haf linger

southern Tyrol, the breed originated in 1874 when a foal was born at Josef Folie’s stud in Sluderno, now part of northern Italy.

By Arabian El Bedavi XXII out of a local

Sometimes known as the Avelignese, Haflingers are athletic, energetic and have a natural tendency to be balanced and light on the forehand. SUZY JARRATT takes an in-depth look at this remarkable breed.

mare, the foal, a colt named Folie after its owner, had a distinctive chestnut coat with a dorsal stripe.

History records that he was ‘deeply muscled with Arabian noblesse, long

HORSE BREED

LEFT: Ridden by Jodie Peever, Trish Skelton’s Bunderra Nearco has more recently been trained in dressage (Image by Glenys Lilley, Foxwood Photography).

BELOW: Trick riding practice with Stella and her Haflinger. vehicle was manufactured which could

the company’s direction changed these

carry heavy loads – it was named ‘The

horses were sold into private ownership

Haflinger’! As is a range of slippers and

and small breeders took over, imported

clogs made in Germany simply because

more and expanded the numbers.”

the horse is a favourite of the shoe company’s founder.

Paul and his wife, Sharon, run Fernances Creek Haflingers located in the Lower

In May 2003 the breed made

Hunter Valley of NSW. They took over

international news. It was announced

from Paul’s parents 30 years ago. “My

that the world’s first cloned horse – a

parents bought a Haflinger in the mid-

healthy Haflinger filly who scientists

eighties. I didn’t pay much attention

named Prometea - had been born in

then but after spending time in Germany

Cremona, Italy, to a genetically identical

where, of course, they are so abundant, I

surrogate mother. It was declared a

developed a more active interest when I

breakthrough for the equine world and

returned home,” Paul says.

heralded the cloning of elite horses for polo and the racing industry.

While away he witnessed the popularity of the breed. He visited Merano in

This is a breed which today is

South Tyrol to watch celebrations

enormously popular in Europe. In

commemorating the start of the racing

Germany alone it has been reported

season, when scores of Haflingers are

that every third pony is a Haflinger. And

ridden and driven through the streets,

there are many in the United States.

and local farmers, in traditional costume,

In Australia there are only about 800,

participate in the annual Haflinger Gallop.

and there were none before 1974 when the Dalgety Land Company imported seven from Austria, selling them five years later.

Paul says that in recent years there has been a surge of imported bloodlines into this country, and the availability of diverse stallions and mares has

Paul Groves, president of the Australian

improved the overall Australian herd.

Haflinger Breeding and Sports

“The introduction of Haflinger AI has

Association (AHBSA) explains: “Because

also opened up new possibilities for

sloped shoulders, a strong back and joints, straight croup, a long and correct stride and magnificent temperament’.

All Haflingers today trace their lineage through one of seven stallion lines to Folie.

Originally, they were used by farmers and traders to navigate the narrow Tyrolean trails. They were ridden, pulled carriages and carried goods and, because of their strength and agility, many were utilised by the military as packhorses during both world wars.

Justifiably, they developed a reputation for being robust and hardworking. In Austria in the late fifties a light utility E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 79

EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE

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8. NRG GlossArena, instant glossy shine for those last-minute touches to your horses coat – 500ml $23.60. Stockist info page 112.

80 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

HORSE BREED

first golden horse. “I’d always wanted a pretty pony and the Haflingers caught my eye.” Her parents liked them, too, and bought Nero, who was so appealing they purchased Nevada a few months later. Stella’s interest in trick riding began, first training on Nero, and then on Nevada as her confidence grew.

Schooled by Mikayla Barber and Hollie Shiels, formerly from the Girls Girls Girls stunt team, Stella became pretty handy at suicide drags, layovers and other tricky manoeuvres executed at high speed as her horses’ long manes and tails flew in the wind.

They performed at shows and festivals delighting audiences. ”They’re both so willing”, says 15-year-old Stella, “anything I’ve asked of them such as jumping and mounted archery, they’ve done. And they’re really great with beginners. Nero is presently away being a therapy horse.”

She points out that Haflingers are good ‘doers’. “We just give them hay, plus a few supplements. They have a different metabolism to other horses and tend to quickly become ‘fatlingers’ if overfed!”

Trish Skelton’s love affair with the breed began when she purchased Bunderra Nearco as an unbroken three-and-a-halfyear-old.

Now 20 months old, Affogato will become Mirabelle Farm’s stallion at stud if he passes his three-year-old classification (Image courtesy Mirabelle Farm).

Trish showed the gelding for ten years.

“He was a Haflinger national champion

breeders and clients looking for a

return to more traditional roots. During

on four occasions, three of which

particular type of horse,” he says. “Both

the war years, they were bred with

were in consecutive years,” she says

our stallions are offspring from imported

characteristics giving them the ability

proudly. “He won a champion led class

Austrian bloodlines, and we offer both

to pull armaments. The German army

at Melbourne Royal, and graced the

modern and traditional types.”

was interested in this type, resulting in

cover of the 20th anniversary edition of

He says that there are now two distinct

the horses losing height and gaining

EQUITANA’s magazine. More recently

body shapes. “One has an athletic

bulk. Now there are many breeders

he’s been in dressage training. He’s 14hh

build and is finer across the chest and

endeavouring to return the horse to

and chunky enough to carry weight while

rump. The other is somewhat smaller

what some would call its ‘original’ taller,

still being eligible for pony dressage.”

and stockier. They’re the ones working

athletic shape. We’re focused on the use

extensively on the land in Europe.”

of Haflingers in a sporting context, and

According to Paul, Haflinger terminology

they’re ideal for riders of all ages.”

She considers Nearco a super star. “I’ve had some amazing offers over the years but I’d never part with him. He’s brought

is a bit tricky. “What is today called the

Stella Doherty from the Sunshine Coast

so much happiness and enjoyment to all

‘modern’ Haflinger is, in some way, a

was only young when she owned her

my family and friends.”

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 81

HORSE BREED

breeder who wants to stay around 140 centimetres. My feeling is that if a Haflinger rider wants to be competitive they should, perhaps, aim for pony dressage events where entrants mustn’t exceed 148 centimetres.”

No matter what their size Haflingers are likely to gain in popularity in Australia – they have so much going for them.

On its website, the AHBSA notes that the breed has become one of the most strictly regulated and highly selective in the world. Each Haflinger is required to pass rigorous checks before they are given the seal of approval, these days with a microchip rather than the traditional edelweiss flower brand. During inspections, the horse’s conformation, soundness, size, movement, temperament, colour and fertility are all taken into consideration.

Horses that don’t make the grade are not passed, which has resulted in a breed that is good-natured, sound, fertile and hardy.

What is there not to like?

Learn more at the AHBSA’s informative Bunderra Nearco has enjoyed outstanding success in the show ring (Image by Glenys Lilley, Foxwood Photography).

Trish has owned her Haflinger since

She is a strong believer in the breed’s

2004, Amanda Flood met hers in 2010.

versatility. “These horses can do

Amanda runs Mirabelle Farm on the

Pony Club, trail riding, cattle cutting

Mornington Peninsula. After being

– anything. Their 2015 World Show

away from all things equestrian for 28

which I visited at Ebbs in the Tyrol

years she wanted to get back to that

highlighted their adaptability. I saw

lifestyle, but not with a Thoroughbred or

sports I never knew existed: riders being

Warmblood. “And I didn’t want to squash

pulled on snow skis, as well as western

a fine pony. I was attracted to a heavier

riding, show jumping, long reining and

type, suitable for a middle-aged woman

competitive carriage driving. It was such

like myself, and after extensive research

an eye-opener. They’re not designed

swayed towards this breed because the

for one specific thing like a Warmblood,

Haflinger classification process includes

they’re an all-rounder.”

a temperament component which I think is really sensible.”

website: www.haflinger.org.au/ haflingers-in-australia

At Mirabelle Farm she only produces a few horses annually. “I’m introducing

After working long and hard with John

blood that will help alleviate what I see

Chatterton, “an amazing horseman

is a problem here. Height is what a lot of

from Queensland,” Amanda became

people are looking for whereas my main

competent and comfortable handling

protocol for breeding is temperament,

and training young stock from the ground.

and I’m probably the only Australian

82 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

Haflingers are good doers and care must be taken not to overfeed them.

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T

he sun is out, the birds are chirping and it’s finally getting warm enough to peel off some

layers. So as the days become longer

F E AT U R E

and you have more time to ride, you can ditch the heavy outerwear and slip into

Spring sensations

some of the latest beautiful, lightweight equine fashions just in time for spring.

Whether you’re schooling at home or enjoying a lesson, there’s a hot trend in the pants department. Save your

With the continued uncertainty in our lives, spring’s arrival couldn’t be more welcome.

So don’t hesitate, it’s time to revitalise your wardrobe with some stylish, on-trend riding wear.

breeches for the competition arena and let comfort combined with fashion reign supreme with a pair of riding tights.

Growing more and more popular, if you’re still sitting on the fence with this

F E AT U R E

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ABOVE: Horze Laurel Vest.

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one, try riding in a good pair to see what

for extra security in the saddle seal the

While the days are still feeling fresh,

all the fuss is about.

deal for us. What’s not to love?

bare arms may not be for you just

Step out in style with the stretch, comfort

While the colours for tights and

and feel of yoga pants, coupled with

jeans this season are simple and

the grippy knees and seat of traditional

straightforward, designers have

jodhpurs. Fun silicon grip prints are

launched happy, bold colours to pop on

super for that added staying-aboard

top! If the arrival of the warmer weather

adhesion. Features and options abound

makes you want to let your personality

with cell phone pockets, belt loops,

shine bright, this is your moment. Paint

pretty bits of bling and more, so you’ll certainly find the perfect pair to suit your mood - a must have for every rider.

Plus, if you need to swing by the shops on the way to or from the stables, you’ll fit right in with the current activewear vibe. The fashion colour palette for our lower halves is more muted this season,

yet. For added atmospheric buffering, long sleeve base layers are a super choice. Different weights offer various levels of insulation to banish any chilly spring morning breeze. Pick something moisture-wicking to keep you dry even when you start to turn up the heat. Plus a four-way stretch for fit and freedom of

box options like pastel mint, soft pink

movement, and a neck zipper to adjust

or teal are box-tickers, or stand out

to the temperature are both ideal.

in a statement piece with chevron stripes; two-toned navy and peach; or something with some floral flair. Of course, classic black is always on the radar for a flattering, edgy look.

As the season progresses and it starts to heat up, base layers can also offer protection from our hot Australian sun.

Choose from styles that have built-in UV protection. SPF30 and SPF50 are readily

featuring the core classics of black, navy

If you’re well and truly ready to feel

available and are well worth it if you’re

and wine, ideal foundation pieces for

the sun on your skin, short sleeves

out in the saddle during the peak of the

any rider’s wardrobe.

are where it’s at. Polo shirts are still a

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much loved favourite, with their bright

really moving and getting a workout,

considering for great fit, feel and comfort

colours, moisture-wicking ability, and

staying fresh is key. We love breathable

in the saddle is a pair of horse riding

timeless style. Riding T-shirts of the less

fabric, antibacterial odour reduction and,

jeans. With well thought out features,

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tummy support, a thigh pocket for your

equestrian wear. Made from recycled

If it’s something less fitted you fancy,

phone, and hidden underfoot keepers

plastic bottles that would otherwise have

relaxed-fit shirts are an excellent spring

to make sure they stay in place at any

ended up in landfill or in our oceans,

choice. Find yourself a cool cotton

pace, you’ll hardly want to take them off.

these are pieces you can feel good

blend, collared number for an all-over,

A seamless inner leg, plus a suede seat

about wearing every time you mount up.

lightweight level of protection from both

Another legwear option worth

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 85

EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE

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F E AT U R E

LEFT: Horze Breathable Crystal Cuff Gloves.

BELOW: Horizon Horse Riding Jeans.

the sun and wind. But relaxed doesn’t

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mean boring. Available in fun colours like

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pastel pink, lemon yellow, cactus green

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will brighten up any rider’s day. Double

a few notches.

buttoned breast pockets keep your necessities secure, while sleeves that roll up and button out of the way let you get your hands dirty while keeping your shirt clean. No more water dripping along your sleeves to your elbows when you get stuck into spring cleaning your horse!

To keep yourself snug for just a while longer, go one layer more with an on-trend, tailored hoodie. Choose from a pullover or zip-up front, with a corded hood and kangaroo

Spring is a finicky season. The days can

pouch to keep your

start cool before heating up, so the trick

hands and neck

is to layer up and then remove one layer

warm while you wait

at a time as temperatures rise. A stylish

for the sun to get

vest to keep you warm and looking

going on fresh spring

oh, so smart is an equestrian fashion

mornings. Cherry

essential. Puffer vests are ideal, styled to

blossom pink and night

flatter a woman’s body with both the cut

blue are our favourite

of the garment and just the right amount

hoodie colours – but

of angled stitching on the puffs to keep

you can choose to suit

you looking great. If you like to keep the

your mood.

rest of your equestrian wardrobe more muted, a bold vest can be the cherry on top when it comes to letting your glamour side out.

Spring grass doesn’t grow without seasonal rain, so if you do find yourself caught

We’re seeing figure-flattering, down-

in a semi-tropical

filled vests in metallic gold and bronze

downpour, or in the

strutting onto the scene. Tailored for the

midst of a whipping

ultimate in fit, the addition of stretchable

spring wind, it’s worth

panels at the back allow for perfect

having a light jacket

comfort while in the saddle. Two-way

on hand. Soft shells

zippers are the way to go and, if you

are perfect for adding

like something a bit different, an off-set

layers without too E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 87

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: ELT Fargo Hoodie. ABOVE RIGHT: Ariat Women's Showstopper 3.0 Short Sleeve Show Shirt.

BELOW: Ariat EOS Full Seat Tight. much additional bulk. A full-length zip is

Good gloves are an essential for any

the standard set-up, but it’s interesting

rider and you don’t have to compromise

to note that quarter zip soft shells are

your grip just because it’s getting

also available as handy fleece-backed,

warmer. There are a couple of tracks

mid-layer pieces. In either case, zip up

you can go down in this department.

pockets and thumbholes finish the job.

Consider a pair made of sweat-wicking

A vest over a soft shell still allows for

Lycra, a handy form of moisture

freedom of movement, but keeps in the

management. Or, choose a pair made

heat when you need it.

with breathable mesh-backing to keep

Lightly quilted jackets are another

you cooler while you keep a contact.

stylish look catching our eye around

Want to use your phone to check a

the stables this season. We’re all over

message before mounting up? You

the alternating stitching lines, which

can leave your gloves on when you’re

create a feminine and fitted silhouette,

wearing touch screen compatible

while thumb holes at the cuffs add

feather touch fingertips. Add extra

to the overall quality and feel. For

reinforcing on the rein-holding fingers

a sophisticated look try out colour

and you get the best of both worlds with

blocking, with the chest, upper back

durability as well as sensitivity. Silicon

and inner arms contrasting to the body

print on the palms keep the reins in your

of the jacket. Looking and feeling this

hands, while a little bling detailing on

good will make you want to keep these

adjustable Velcro wrist closures will add

jackets on even beyond the barn.

spring time sparkle to your ride.

88 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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90 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

SADDLE REVIEW

Prestige X-Helen With blocks that follow the horse’s anatomy and a design that allows the rider close contact without hindering movement, this saddle is a real winner.

Horses have brought Katrina Park a

with horses of all ages, leading to the

However, Katrina decided it was time

range of globe-trotting experiences.

development of her business Cadence

to upgrade to a new saddle to be used

Born in the UK she grew up feeding

Horse Training. Based in Nar Nar Goon,

long term, something that would be

ponies at the local riding school, an

Victoria, Katrina offers a range of training

a good fit for them both. In particular,

activity that later evolved into riding

programs and online courses, all backed

Lucifer, who was still growing, needed a

lessons. Some years down the track,

by her knowledge of biomechanics,

saddle that gave his shoulders freedom

and she had earned a Diploma in Equine

exercise physiology and rehabilitation,

of movement.

Studies, followed by a Bachelor then a

skills which blend perfectly with her

Masters in Equine Science.

aptitude for training horses.

Her tutor encouraged her to apply for

Katrina’s current horse Lucifer is a six-

which would be wide enough to

an internship with Kentucky Equine

year-old Warmblood gelding. He came

accommodate Lucifer, with a narrow

Research in the US, an application

to her as a two-year-old and although

twist to suit Katrina.

that was successful. After completing

he wasn’t always “the nicest person to

the 12 month internship, Katrina was

be around,” he was quite smart and very

invited to manage the Caddel Equine

good looking. Originally planning to take

Rehabilitation Centre, which she did for

him on as a project horse, his charm won

six years.

Katrina over. Since those early days he’s

Her US adventure came to an end

come along in leaps and bounds under

when relatives in Melbourne invited

her guidance, and no longer lives up to

Katrina’s saddle fitter recommended the Prestige X-Helen Dressage saddle,

After finding The Saddle Hub through Facebook, Katrina was delighted to discover that they had a Prestige X-Helen available. A seamless, stress-free experience with prompt communication and shipping followed.

Katrina had a few questions for the

her to come and explore Australia – an

his namesake!

opportunity which she eagerly accepted.

Lucifer was first ridden in a Bates Arena,

answered with The Saddle Hub acting

After finding employment on a stud

purchased as an interim saddle while

as “an excellent middleman.”

farm, she started training and working

he was being started and still growing.

saddle’s owner, which were quickly

After a tick of approval from the saddle fitter, Lucifer is now enjoying his comfortable new saddle and showing great improvement. Meanwhile Katrina, who plans to compete with Lucifer in the near future, loves the secure and correct position the Prestige X-Helen puts her in. Even better, the saddle has been successfully refitted several times as Lucifer continues to grow.

The Saddle Hub has a wide variety of top quality second-hand saddles, so why wait? Visit www.equestrianhub.com.au

Katrina and Lucifer look more than comfortable in their Prestige X-Helen Dressage saddle.

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E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 91

2019 CCN4* Short Summer Classic winners Shane Rose and Virgil are just one of the many partnerships Carolyn has judged.

All images by Stephen Mowbray Photography.

H

ave you ever got your scores and said to yourself or a fellow competitor ‘but I thought I did a

good test. I don’t think the judge liked me’.

O N M Y TAC K B OX

Improving your scores

Here are some possible explanations from the judge’s point of view as to why your scores weren’t all that you’d hoped for, as well as some tips that might help you to achieve a better score.

So often you see things when judging that you wish you could tell the rider at the time because you know they’d make such a difference. And therein lies the

An FEI Level 3 Eventing Judge, EA Dressage Judge and EA Coach, CAROLYN JAMES has judged many of Australia’s finest riders. Here she shares some expert pointers on how you can improve your dressage scores.

value of protocol days when you can talk to the rider and work on problem areas. That being said, we are always happy to discuss the test with you after the event. Just remember that everyone, judges and riders alike, are trying to do

O N M Y TAC K B OX

their best but given time constraints,

they come and write for me because

In training your horse, be adaptable.

it is not always easy to have these

it helps them understand the common

Perhaps not everything that you planned

conversations, which should be both

mistakes people make, and to see that

to do that day will work. It has been said

positive and constructive.

we judges are trying to help riders with

that the difference between a good rider

our comments.

and a great rider is feel. Ride what you

As a judge, our job is to use the scale

have at that time and moment, and if

of marks in assessing the combination

As a rider I understand the frustration

according to the scale of training, and

when things are not going to plan.

to try to ensure we give constructive

Some time ago a rider who has had a

comments in order to assist the

lot of success at FEI eventing wrote for

Always spend enough time in walk and

partnership in their further training and

me at the Sydney International. On this

really stretch your horse over the back

development. If the movement is good

occasion I was on the long side. The

and use suppling exercises to help

it should be scored an eight, and if

rider said: “I had no idea how different

longitudinal and lateral suppleness,

insufficient a four – and the comments

it looks from here. It’s so obvious

ensuring that they are mentally as well

should reflect these scores. A 10 is

when the halt is not at the marker or

as physically prepared for the work to

excellent (not perfect), and if there is

not square, and I can clearly see the

come. And remember to give breaks

nothing that could have been done

balance, engagement and frame.”

and reward them for a job well done.

better, then why not award that score.

And, by the way, it is where judges are

A great reference is the FEI Dressage

positioned that often accounts for any

Handbook Guidelines for Judging.

differences between their marks.

I often suggest to riders who might

But now let’s look at strategies that may

take time to stretch before the session?

be stressing about being judged that

help you to improve your score.

A rider who is stiff and tight will not be

something is not working then change it.

Go back to something that does work.

Not only does your horse have to work on being stronger, more supple and flexible, so do you! How many of us remember to

Another dressage test judged by Carolyn – Amanda Ross and Di Cavalli Diesel at the 2019 Sydney International CCI4* Short.

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

Carolyn judged Stuart Tinney and Celebration at the 2020 Wallaby Hill International 3D Event. able to work in harmony with the horse.

arena dimensions, the geometry of each

Prepare for the transition with a half halt,

Pilates and yoga are both great for riders

figure, where each movement starts

and think: get straight, now rhythm and

and certainly improve strength, flexibility,

and finishes, and be sure to read the

correct tempo not speed!

balance and core strength.

directives. All too often riders do not ride

Also work on your body alignment. A horse cannot be expected to perform a correct shoulder in if the rider is crooked, and all too often the rider doesn’t even realise that they are crooked. Which brings me to my next point: wherever possible, have a pair of experienced eyes on the ground, someone who is able to assist you and alert you to issues that you aren’t aware of.

At the competition have a plan for your warm up routine. All horses are different so know what works for your particular horse. Allow yourself plenty of time so that you are not rushed or stressed. And do not change your tack just before a competition - always practice in the

a corner correctly and then have little time to prepare for a movement across the diagonal. Ride each movement and not just the pattern. For example, not just

The size of your circles is where we often see marks thrown away.

Having said that, the quality of the paces is so important.

Whilst we are not judging when you are outside the arena it is still important to give a good impression. Remember to look confident as you come down the centre line. It’s the first impression of you that the judge has, so enter and ride for that 10. As someone once said, dare the judge to take marks off you!

Prepare for transitions within and when changing the pace with half halts. When halting try to show immobility, but if your horse is tense do not hold it for too long.

If carrying a whip do not salute with the whip hand and try to use peripheral vision to find the marker, which like all things, takes practice.

The directives are there to help you. For

centre line C track right, MXK medium

instance, a halt includes the transitions

trot, K collected trot – but talk yourself

in and out. As previously mentioned,

Know your test and visualise riding the

through it, use the corner. Ask yourself,

accuracy is important. The size of your

movements perfectly. Be aware of the

have I got him around my inside leg?

circles is where we often see marks

equipment you are going to ride in.

94 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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O N M Y TAC K B OX

Christine Bates riding Adelaide Hill delivered a winning score at the 2020 Wallaby Hill International under Carolyn’s watchful eye.

thrown away. Having said that, the

educational platforms out there and we

quality of the paces is so important.

never stop learning.

However, an accurately ridden, obedient test with a horse that does not possess extravagant paces is capable of gaining some good marks.

So read the comments on your tests and work with your trainer on areas that need improvement. Remember the word ‘dresseur’ means to train, and

If something goes wrong during a

the aim is to produce through correct

movement put it behind you and ride

training a horse that is balanced, and

the next one positively. Remember, an

developing greater flexibility, strength

improvement in one mark per movement

and responsiveness to the aids, which

equates to a 10 per cent improvement on

in turn should help create a harmonious

your overall score. And finally, look at the

picture and a happy equine athlete.

test to see where the coefficients are.

I hope these pointers have been helpful.

It is a great idea to watch tests from

Enjoy the journey with your horse and

some of the professional riders both

remember that there are no shortcuts.

here in Australia and overseas. Live

Shortcuts cannot replace the good basic

telecasts and on demand replays

training that creates building blocks you

are great for this. There are so many

can always return to.

Where Carolyn goes, her mascots go: a Highland bear from the Isle of Skye, and Willberry, the fundraiser for Hannah's Willberry Wonder Pony Charity (Image by Carolyn James).

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

TRAINING TIPS

W

hatever your discipline, it's a bit short sighted to think a horse will ride any better

than he handles on the ground.

From the ground up

Reluctance to spend time with groundwork can often be down to a bit of laziness on the rider’s part, or not knowing what good groundwork skills actually are. Some people think they can lunge a horse and tire it out enough to get on safely – but if you think it won’t buck

Rodeoing, training, breeding, showing, KEN FAULKNER has been involved with horses for most of his life. He teaches Natural Horsemanship around the globe and is a stickler for good groundwork.

you off if it’s going to, you’re dreaming!

Horses don’t buck physically, they buck emotionally, and the conventional style of lunging won’t do much for your horse mentally or emotionally. You’re really just warming him up, so if he’s in a

Move the horse’s front end around in a circle using pressure on the side of his nose, making sure he looks in the direction of the turn.

RIGHT: Rub the horse where the saddle will eventually go.

All images courtesy Australian Horsemanship.

negative state of mind you'll actually be

looking for a lateral bend, and we get this

and reluctant to move, it's because we

helping him to buck you off!

by shortening the lead rope and rubbing

haven't stimulated them and got them

the horse along his neck, side and rump

past the idea of resisting pressure. So,

Groundwork is the best way to get the emotions fixed before you get into the saddle to work on the physical. But like any training principle, there should be

while using a gentle pulsing (I call it milking) on the lead rope to encourage him to turn his head and release, with the

holding the halter rope, stand beside your horse’s body and using fingertip

bend running right through his body: poll,

pressure in the area of your leg position,

neck, shoulder and ribs. If he won’t flex,

ask the horse to move around you in a

ask him to move his hindquarters a step

lateral bend. Work on this until your horse

and try again.

responds to a light touch.

I have a particular outcome in mind –

Groundwork Skill Two: Yield to feel

in others words, there’s a point to them.

One of the miracles of horsemanship

The super seven

is getting a prey animal to yield to feel.

Groundwork Skill Three: Get your horse to notice the energy in your body and to shift his energy in response

a point to it – and you need to have the patience to give the horse enough time to see the point.

With all the groundwork skills I use,

Groundwork Skill One: Lateral Flexion

We use our hands, feet, reins, the bit,

How do you know your horse is solid

animals push against pressure. That’s

energy in my body increases and he

enough to be quiet? He can bend. A

why some horses are heavy when they’re

should notice and shift his feet in a lateral

defensive horse won’t bend. So, we’re

ridden. When they’re heavy to the legs

step. As I breathe out, he should relax.

but what we don’t recognise is that prey

If I stand tall and breath in deeply, the

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 99

TRAINING TIPS

the horse as he circles and gently milk the lead rope to encourage the nose in while pointing a stick (I prefer an inflexible stick or pole to a whip) at his hindquarters. If he refuses to bend, stop him and start again.

This is all about transitions, flexion and turns, not the number of circles.

When the back legs and front legs step equally in their stride, that means they’re engaged and the horse is pushing with his hindquarters rather than front end.

Groundwork Skill Six: Sideways/Lateral movement Can my horse step laterally on an angle or square? Encourage this by blocking his forward motion either by pressure on his halter or standing in front of him, while asking him to step sideways by tapping him on his ribs with your stick.

Groundwork Skill Seven: Addressing the horse's natural sense of claustrophobia In their natural state, horses have a flight line. Anything that challenges their ability to run (horse floats, alley ways, stables, any enclosed area) increases their claustrophobia. So I might ask him to step between me and a fence, or to jump over, go through, or around something, perhaps a tarp, or a horse rug over his body, or ask him to walk between some barrels.

Pre-flight check To me, groundwork is a great pre-flight check. It's a great way to get together with your horse before you get on. One of the biggest de-trainers of horses is surplus energy, and groundwork skills are A well trained horse with a good foundation becomes a willing partner.

Groundwork Skill Four: This is an impulsion check

a great way to regulate that energy so when you get on, you don’t have to hang on to the reins to hold the horse back.

How soft are your horse’s feet? Does he

Groundwork Skill Five: The essence of circles is lateral flexion in movement

move his feet freely and easily when we

Can the horse keep his inside back leg

and emotionally settled. Then we just

ask him to go backwards and forwards a

tracked with his outside front leg while

hop on and do the same groundwork

few steps, or is he reluctant? The more

he’s lunged on a 10 metre circle? The

techniques again, the only difference is

relaxed they are the more relaxed their

circles are pretty much irrelevant - it’s

now we’re on their back.

feet. Nervous horses have nervous feet,

his balance as he learns to do transitions

I do groundwork with all my horses. With

lazy horses drag their feet.

and turns that’s important. Focus on

a young, green or unstarted horse it’s

100 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

Once we’ve run through our groundwork skills, the horse will be more balanced

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

TRAINING TIPS

Ask the horse to step softly and willingly backwards from slight pressure on the front of his nose. to teach him control and the ‘buttons’

back. Be able to direct the hindquarters

side, nature tells him he’s at the end of

or cues that I need him to have for the

off a straight line. A defensive horse won’t

the flight line and he’ll relax.

rest of his life. For my older horses,

bend laterally because as a prey animal,

groundwork is their stretching and

they want to be straight so they can run

Pilates exercises. As a horse gets older,

away. If you can move the hindquarters

we see that style of horse being ridden

laterally, you’re telling them they’re at the

all the time, high headed horses with

I need to keep him supple and healthy if I want him to live and function into old age. And with every animal, us included, stretching is good for you.

With my young horses I might spend anything up to half an hour or more on groundwork before I get on them. For my partnership horses, I spend a lot less time on groundwork but I make sure I’ve worked them into a good place before I get on. For my advanced horses I just give them a little pre-flight check that might only take 30 seconds to a couple

A really defensive horse will want to stay straight with his head elevated. And

hollow backs running on their shoulders.

If you have a horse that doesn’t want to bend, get off, stand beside them and keep working with them until they can bend.

As the head lifts, they brace their front legs and they’ll resist forward motion whether you’re leading them or trying to ride them.

To improve your horse’s balance and disposition, lateral flexion is your friend.

If you have a horse that doesn’t want to bend, get off, stand beside them and keep working with them until they can bend. If he’s stiff and straight, he's not going to give you a good ride anyway.

of minutes. end of their flight line. The flight line is

Create your dream horse

And to that I would add if you want to

the distance they run after they’ve been

So many people get hurt because

be safe, own the horse’s hindquarters

negatively stimulated or pressured. So

they’re not setting their horses up

whether you’re on the ground or on his

when he moves his hindquarters to the

properly. We've got better horses than

Own the hindquarters

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

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TRAINING TIPS

we've ever had, yet our knowledge of basic horsemanship is less. A lot of us go straight from the breaker into competition training, and then we wonder why the horse gets over-faced and blows up. We blame the training but it's not that. It’s because we forgot to educate them.

You can’t train an uneducated horse, and you can’t educate an uncontrolled horse.

And they're the three stages of your horse’s life: control, educate, and then train.

Horses are supposed to be fun. Take time to make your horse into the horse of your dreams. The horse of your dreams is a generous, honest, reliable, trustworthy horse. And you don't just get that, you build it through good training.

To find out more, visit www. australiannaturalhorsemanship.com – and you’ll find a full length version of this fascinating article in our VIP area.

Log in to www.equestrianhub.com.au/ vip-member/

ABOVE: Rub the horse while he is standing still in a bend to relax.

BELOW: Teach the horse to move his hindquarters from the gentle consistent pressure of your hand.

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

Competing in the 2021 Prix St Georges Sky Park Dressage Championships at Werribee (Image

by Shoulder Fore Photography).

to competing at Prix St. Georges and Intermediate I level.

YO U N G R I D E R

Ahead of her time With an extraordinary string of successes already behind her, the dressage world is Bella Plumridge’s oyster. CLAUDIA BRODTKE learned more about a young rider whose career has so far been stellar.

W

inner of the Sydney 2019 CDI-P and 2021 CD-Lite P, 2021 CDN-P Australian Freestyle Record holder, 2021 FEI Pony Winner at the Victorian Young Rider Youth Championships and the Boneo Classic, and winner of the 2019 Australian Leg of the World Youth

Dressage Challenge Championship and Overall World Youth Dressage Challenge Champions (pipping over 60 other riders worldwide to the post in the process), at just 15 years old Bella Plumridge has enjoyed remarkable success – and all on the Arabian Riding Pony she has ridden from elementary

106 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

Hailing from Victoria’s Yarra Valley, Bella grew up watching her mum training with Charlotte Pedersen, who has coached Bella since she started riding. Surrounded by dressage horses, Bella was entranced and watched the movements in awe, dreaming of one day riding them herself.

Bella has ridden for as long as she can remember and as soon she was able to ride off the lead, she attended Pony Club and found her favourite disciplines in dressage and show jumping. Her first pony, Lily, a 12.2hh pocket rocket arrived when she was four. A year later and Jerry came along, a four-year-old breaker who was so bombproof that she remembers having to work hard to encourage forward motion!

Currently Bella has four horses in work: FEI Small Tour Arabian Riding Pony Illawong Harvest Moon (bred by Kate Law) has been her partner for five years, and Tres Bonne NZ, a 16hh Warmblood x Thoroughbred x Clydesdale is

YOUNG RIDER

Bella’s jumping favourite. Then there’s Snapdragon, a 16.2hh homebred Warmblood breaker out of her mum’s FEI horse, and lastly Blueberry Twist, a blue roan Welsh D bought as a project and since stealing Bella’s heart.

Aiming to work with each horse four times a week can be a challenge when you’re trying to balance getting up at 5:30am to clean out stables, school, and riding one or two horses every night! But Bella’s love of dressage helps to motivate her through some very long days. She says that the appeal of dressage is everything: “It’s all about the time you put in behind the scenes training and making a connection with your horse, and that you can always improve and aim to do things better in competitions where every mark counts.”

Bella’s been a member of the Victorian Young Rider Squad since she was ten. On their A Squad for the past two years, she says it's been "an amazing experience." As a squad member, she’s been expertly mentored while having the opportunity to develop her riding, theoretical knowledge, and fitness, as well as enjoying support from close friends who are there for each other through the ups and downs of what can be an exacting sport.

As well as continuing to develop her current team, Bella would also like to ride and train other horses with a dream of one day representing Australia at either the Olympics or WEG. But ever practical, she’s planning to study psychology at university, a career she says she will enjoy, and one that would help finance her equestrian dreams.

Bella and Illawong Harvest Moon were Small Tour champions at the 2021 Boneo Park Inter 1 (Image by One Eyed Frog Photography).

Success such as Bella’s doesn’t come without support, and her ‘thank you’ list includes her parents, especially her mum; her coach Charlotte Pedersen; Jan Smith and the Victorian Young Rider Squad; her school Yarra Valley Grammar; vets The Equine Practice; farrier Brook Dobbin; and her sponsors Horse in the Box Equestrian, Hoogies of Seville and Epona Elite Equestrian.

And from all of us here at the Equestrian Hub, keep shooting for the stars, Bella – we’re excited to see what comes next.

A winning line-up, with a rug and ribbon for Bella after the Sydney 2021 CD-Lite P. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 107

I P E R F E C T PA R T N E R S

Scott Hergest and Spinnin’ Whiz Reining trainer Scott Hergest was in the middle of winning yet another event when SONIA CAEIRO ALVAREZ called him to chat about his champion ride and long-time partner Spinnin’ Whiz.

f you haven’t yet gotten along to a reining competition to see what all the fuss is about, you probably should. The atmosphere is electric, the horses’ agility and speed amazing, and the connection between horse and rider truly remarkable.

For close to 30 years now, Scott Hergest has been an outstanding competitor in the sport, and has had numerous wins and placings at both State and National shows, including Futurities and Derbies.

Currently he’s campaigning Spinnin’ Whiz – Dusty to his friends – a Quarter Horse he started and has trained to Derby and Open success at all levels.

When I spoke with Scott, he and Dusty were mid-competition near Gympie in Queensland. Nevertheless, he kindly took some time out to talk about the partnership he has with his outstanding reiner.

P E R F E C T PA R T N E R S

It was in early 2017 that Scott chanced

he should have won. However, we had

Coast Championships, the 2018

upon the young horse while browsing

a hiccup. Even so he was an absolute

Pacific Coast Reserve Championship

social media. “I’d been looking for

standout and one of the American

Derby, and the Intermediate Derby

a prospect for a while when I saw a

judges was saying, ‘go buy that horse!’,

Championships, after which they landed

Facebook ad for a stud in NSW,” he says. “It was pretty much sight unseen

and since then we’ve done pretty well.”

the truck arrived, I watched some horses being unloaded, and then out came Dusty. I liked his look straight away and I have never had a bad day with him. He’s a great horse.”

Scott tells me that it wasn’t exactly a deep love at first sight, but from the get-go he knew there was something special about this particular Quarter

Association Open Championship. And most recently, the pair took out the win

and the seller said, ‘I’ll send him off to you, if you like him, that’s great’. When

the 2018 Queensland Reining Horse

I’ve been offered very good money for him, but he’s earned his keep and I don’t think I could ever sell him.

at the 2021 Queensland Reining Horse Association State Show Open Derby and Intermediate Derby with a score of 146.5.

“We’ve been putting a lot of good runs together,” Scott tells me. “We’re looking at the Nationals this year, probably our last Derby year. Dusty’s done a lot of work, so I’m not really too worried.

He’s been a successful horse for me ever since the first big event at the Queensland Derby. I’ve been offered

Horse. “It was just the look of him – I can’t explain it exactly,” he says. “He

Modestly, and with more than a

very good money for him, but he’s

was just one year old, and I could see he

smattering of understatement, Scott

earned his keep and I don’t think I could

was an excellent horse. He has no bad

lists some of the triumphs of the last few

traits really. He’s good to do anything

years which include wins as the 2017

with, including leading the younger ones. Basically, everything he’s asked to do, he does.”

Although Scott can’t pin down a

ever sell him.”

So although their competitive days in

Queensland Reining Horse Association

the pen may come to a close at the end

Derby Championships and 2017 Reining

of the 2021 season, one thing’s for sure,

Australia Derby Co Championships.

Scott and Dusty are very likely to remain

The pair placed at the 2018 Pacific

perfect partners.

specific reason for their connection, this intangible but immediate flash of intuition was the start of a partnership that has been going strong for the past five years. Trust was built over time and he credits a softer training style to cementing their relationship. “I’m not a very hard trainer. Quarter Horses are normally a very hot breed but Dusty wasn’t that difficult,” he explains. “When he does something wrong, I don’t freak out. You can’t be banging on at them, it just doesn’t work.”

Speaking mid-competition, Scott is in a competing mindset. He and Dusty have a fine reputation in the arena, although Scott is characteristically humble about their achievements. “I’ve been around for quite a while and have had a few horses – and we did ok,” he says. “Then Dusty came along. A few years ago, we’d done the Beaudesert Performance Club, and were at the Pacific Coast at Gatton. He was young but ready and

Scott and Dusty took out the recent QRHA State Show Open Derby and Intermediate Derby with a score of 146.5.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 109

Q: Where did you grow up?

A : I haven’t grown up yet. I spent my childhood in the New England ranges at a place called Nowendoc in between Gloucester and Walcha.

20 QUESTIONS

20 Questions with Cody Rawson-Harris For more than thirty years, Cody has worked all over the world training animals and educating actors for films, television series and commercials.

He also trains horses for every Olympic discipline, and for the racing industry.

Q: Heath Harris, your movie horse trainer father, is well-known. Was your mother also involved in the business?

A : Yes, she was very heavily involved.

She did films like the Silver Brumby and Snowy River: The McGregor Saga.

Q: What was your involvement with horses growing up?

A : I did Pony Club and worked outside of my parents. I think Mum used to send me to Pony Club so she could get some peace and quiet.

Q: Did you have any mentors besides your parents in the early days?

A : Ray Hunt was an inspiration, and Glen Randall from Randall Ranch who did films like The Black Stallion and Ben Hur.

Q: When did you start learning the finer points of training horses?

20 QUESTIONS

A : When I let go of the ego. I was always fairly handy and had a good feel, but letting go of the ego took my horse training to the next level.

Q: What do you find the hardest thing to train a horse to do?

A : On set there is a delivery date.

That really looms over you on film productions. Keeping the horse in a relaxed frame of mind when shooting begins in two weeks puts a lot of pressure on the situation.

Q: I’ve heard you were a stunt double for Orlando Bloom. Were you picked for your good looks or stunt riding abilities?

A : Of course for my good looks! We supplied the horses for Gregor Jordan’s Ned Kelly. I was galloping through the bush firing guns as Orlando’s character Joe.

Q: Any big names who were really good to work with?

A : Russell Crowe with The Silver Brumby and the True History of the Kelly Gang, Olivia Newton-John, Hugh Jackman, and Mackezie Foy was brilliant to work with.

Q: What are some of the movies and TV shows you’ve worked on?

A : Other than the ones I’ve mentioned, Black Beauty for Disney +, The Dressmaker, The Pacific, the Gallipoli miniseries, Racing Stripes, The Witcher and many, many more.

Q: Have you trained other animals besides horses?

A : I’ve trained water buffalo, parrots, dogs, monkeys, zebras, donkeys, mules, cats (they’re actually quite cool to train), sheep (which I found quite similar to training horses), kangaroos, and emus just to name a few. In my business you name it, we tame it!

Q: Have you worked at any particularly interesting locations?

A : All over South Africa, India, Hungary, Turkey, New Zealand. I’m blessed that I’ve been able to work in all these places.

Q: When you’re not riding, how do you relax?

A : Exploring, which is non-existent at the moment during COVID. Even going for a drive and finding a new restaurant is good fun.

ABOVE: Cody and his unicorn shooting a TV commercial.

LEFT: Rehearsing before the day’s shoot.

Q: What do you look for in a potential

Q: What is something from your line

liberty horse?

A : Willingness

of work that could benefit the

Q: If you weren’t in the liberty/movie

A : Pay attention to relaxation. Also, have

industry, what would you be doing?

A : I would be training and helping horses with ‘problems’.

a bit of grit.

Q: What’s the first thing you look to

A : A horse called Windy. She was an

work on with a ‘problem’ horse?

A : Regardless of the ‘problem’ you need to start by getting their attention.

Q: Is there any particular issue you

everyday rider?

Q: If you could have any horse past or present which one would it be?

Andalusian and was taken before her time. She was the most amazing horse.

Every horse I touch, Windy has taught me something that helps. She gave me

really enjoy fixing?

A : I enjoy seeing the process with a horse that’s fearful, or has had trouble with humans, and gaining their trust. There is satisfaction in the end.

More recently, I’m enjoying helping racehorses with barrier issues.

so much.

Q: Are you afraid of anything?

A : Anything that is designed to eat you!

which is for anyone interested in my film

Q: What are your plans for the future?

A : To keep training horses locally. When COVID settles down the international film industry will open up again. I’m also doing up my website www.crhlivestock.com work, hosting a clinic, or booking lessons.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 111

SELL YOUR SADDLE The role of The Saddle Hub is to make the process of selling your saddle as effortless as possible.

We understand you want to achieve the best price for your saddle, and so do we.

We predominately sell saddles on consignment and endeavour to turn all saddles over within 3 months.

The Saddle Hub will: þ arrange for your saddle to be shipped to us. þ take professional studio photographs of your saddle þ inspect saddles and provide an accurate description þ advertise to a large buyer network on our social media channels and website helping you sell your saddle sooner

þ save you time by handling all questions and enquiries from potential purchasers

www.equestrianhub.com.au

S TO C K I S T S

Find a stockist or shop online Page 25 – Horse Health AXIS www.jurox.com.au

BANANA FEEDS www.bananafeedsaustralia.com HI-FORM www.hiform.com.au KER www.ker.com MCDOWELLS www.mcdowellsherbal.com

Page 80 – Finishing Touches

Page 90 – Hoof and Leg Care

ARIAT www.ariat.com.au

HORSE IN THE BOX www.horseinthebox.com.au

EQUIPE www.trailrace.com.au

ICE N EASY www.iceneasyequine.com.au

GLOSSARENA www.nrgteam.com.au

KER www.ker.com

MONTANA www.justcountry.com.au

MISSY'S BUCKET www.missysbucket.com.au

WOOF WEAR www.zilco.com.au

POTTIES www.sykes.net.au

Page 86 – All Things Spring

Page 30 – Blue

ARIAT www.ariat.com.au

EQUESTRIAN HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au FAIRPLAY www.horseinthebox.com.au

ARIAT www.ariat.com.au CARIBU www.petstock.com.au

MCDOWELLS www.mcdowellsherbal.com POTTIE'S www.sykes.net.au SCOOT BOOTS www.scootboots.com WOOF WEAR www.zilco.com.au

Page 101 – Riding the Range

ARIAT www.ariat.com.au JUST COUNTRY www.justcountry.com.au DAN POST www.westernbootbarn.com.au KENTUCKY www.trailrace.com.au EQUESTRIAN HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au

GIDGEE EYEWEAR www.gidgee-eyes.com JUST COUNTRY www.justcountry.com.au NRG www.nrgteam.com.au

SUNBODY www.justcountry.com.au

PERFORMARIDE www.performaride.com.au PETSTOCK www.petstock.com.au

THE SADDLE HUB www.equestrianhub.com.au

112 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1

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