December 2016 - In the Stirrups

FREE ONLINE FOR ALL EQUESTRIANS, EVERYWHERE

DECEMBER 2016

IN THE STIRRUPS MAGAZINE

TRIED & TESTED

Christmas Wishes

Ariat Berwick GTX Boots

Winter Time Saving Tips

The Eventing season is over – What Now for Tim Lips?

with Gary Foggon

WIN! 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways

SCOTT BRASH: HORSES AND LAST MINUTE SHOPPING AT THE FOOT OF THE SWISS ALPS

INJURIES:

RECOGNISING WOUNDS WITH ROBINSON ANIMAL HEALTH CARE

In the Stirrups

the polo

Turn heads wearing the In the Stirrups Polo Shirt. Designed by us, it is a simple yet stylish top suitable for around the yard or just out and about. It sports the In the Stirrups logo to the front breast with the Limited Edition detail in Gold located in the bottom left hand corner.

On the left sleeve it an embroidered Union Jack and on the right sleeve the detailing is a number 1. The back of the polo has our name across the shoulders and beneath In the Stirrups is a number 1 corresponding with the right sleeve.

These polos are lightweight yet hard wearing and can be worn tucked in or out.

Available in mens, womens, and childrens sizes. They are £28 plus shipping costs – we post worldwide so please email us for postage costs. They are shipped directly from our manufacturer and sent via tracked post to ensure their safe arrival. Please contact us for pricing on wholesale orders.

To order: info@inthestirrups.com

November 2016

Inside this month’s issue…

05 #banishthebounce – A new information leaflet from BETA designed to avoid breast pain caused by riding activity.

On the cover: Daydream Equine Art

© Rose Lewis

contents

CONTENTS & ED’S LETTER

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06 C onfident Horsemanship with Anne Gage – How uncertainty kills your horse riding confidence

07 Christmas Giveaway: 12 Days of amazing prizes given away to In the Stirrups readers

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10 Winter Essentials: Winter Time Saving Tips with Gary Foggon and Identifying Different Types of Wound with Robinson Animal Health Care

12 Christmas Wishes from some of our riders 14 Starting over again with Scott Brash, winner of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ 2016.

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15 Tried & Tested: Ariat® Ladies Berwick GTX® Insulated Country Boots in Ebony

16 Fashion and shopping 18 On the Twelth Day of Christmas with Sarah Schaaf and Patrick

19 C hurch Farm Equestrian and Pony Club Centre

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expands its services with the help of the Accessibility Mark

20 T im Lips – What’s in store now that the eventing season has come to an end?

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline TWITTER In_the_Stirrups WEBSITE www.inthestirrups.com Almost at the end of

not have been possible! Here’s to a happy, healthy

another year... with another

and positive 2017. Wish you, your families and

Olympics behind us and

especially your equine families a happy New Year!

the countdown to the next World Equestrian Games has begun. I would like to take

Natasha

the opportunity to thank each and every one of you who has supported In the Stirrups’ growth over the past year, without you our success would l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS December 2016

THE TEAM

In the Stirrups Magazine is created by a small team, scattered around the globe. We love every second of what we do. Read below if you would like to get to know us better.

Natasha

Shirley

EDITOR

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

editor@inthestirrups.com

shirley@inthestirrups.com

COOMBES Natasha is the Editor and driving force behind the magazine. Her love of horses coupled with a passion for media led to the start of our publication. When not writing and working on bringing you the latest news and stories she can usually be found running around after her three young children; Darcy – 6,Thomas – 4, and Henry – just a couple of months old! Natasha is also supported by Ariat Clothing which ensures she is always in style, yet functional, when at a show or during visits.

Ben

SAUNDERS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Ben@inthestirrups.com Ben joined In the Stirrups in March 2015 and has brought invaluable skills to the brand as a whole. From handling advertising, interviewing international riders and developing designs and layouts, Ben is always busy and proves to be a valuable asset to the team.

TYNAN Shirley has over 35 years experience in designing and producing magazines. With an extensive knowledge of the latest design software, and the pre-press and printing process, she has seen how the industry has evolved over the years. She is excited to be working with, and being part of, the In the Stirrups team.

Marc

MOGGRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHER burghleyimages.photoshelter.com Marc is energetic, tenatious and enthusiastic and it shows in his photos. His talent and dedication mean his shots fully capture all of the action, whether its eventing or in the MMA cage. When not taking photos he enjoys rugby, fine scotch and spending time with his family.

Ben

CLARK

04 Tim

LIPS

PHOTOGRAPHER

MONTHLY CONTRIBUTOR www.timlips.nl Dutch Olympic Eventer, Tim Lips, fresh from the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Tim also won Team Bronze at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

www.benjaminclarkphotography.co.uk Ben is a well-travelled photographer. Adventurous and innovative, he brings an energy to his photos that the viewer can feel. Often found at many events on the continent, he is also well respected for being friendly and approachable.

Rose

Anne

GAGE MONTHLY CONTRIBUTOR www.confidenthorsemanship.com Anne Gage is a Clinician, Riding Coach, Horse Trainer and Certified Professional Coach, based in Canada. Anne focuses on the mental and physical aspects of both you and your horse so you can develop trust and respect while building confidence in each other.

Sarah Schaaf

LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHER www.daydreamequineart.co.uk Rose is young, talented and focused. Through her photographjy and art she is fast earning a name as a polite, courteous and approachable photographer and provides In the Stirrups with various media from portaits to event photos. Also available for personal shoots and group bookings, visit her website to find out more.

Anna

AND PATRICK

NORDHOFF

MONTHLY CONTRIBUTOR

PHOTOGRAPHER

www.patricktheminiaturehorse.com

www.anphotovisions.jimdo.com

GTR Patricks Vindicator (Patrick) is a 22-year-old miniature horse gelding bought by Sarah Schaaf’s parents when she was only two years old. In 2014, Patrick became a registered therapy horse. Sarah started showing Patrick when she was only five, and rode him until she was seven. Sarah has been training and exhibiting Patrick ever since.

Anna is a 21-year-old equine photographer from Germany who loves to visit big equestrian events. “I like to capture and express all the energy and trust between horse and rider. This fascination and inspiration may have resulted from having my own horses over the years. So I spend the rest of my freetime with my horses. My photographies reach from portrait to events but not only horses. As long as I hold the camera in my hand I feel happy.”

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

#BANISHTHEBOUNCE

Banish the bounce with new bra guide for riders

. quisafety.com Wwwe

The Horse Rider’s Guide to Bras is a new information leaflet designed to help female equestrians avoid breast pain caused by riding activity. Created

by BETA in conjunction with the British Equestrian Federation, this handy resource is based on a large-scale study

by Dr Jenny Burbage, of the University of Portsmouth, and Lorna Cameron, of Sparsholt College, Hampshire.

Their research revealed that 40 per cent of 1,324 riders surveyed experienced breast pain, which was significantly related to increased cup size, and at least one bra issue was reported by 59 per cent of participants.

Surprisingly, less than 35 per cent of female riders wear a sports bra and more than 70 per cent of women are reported to be wearing the wrong size. The Horse Rider’s Guide to Bras

seeks to address this problem by offering six pages of guidance and tips on how to secure the perfect fit.

“We thought that the study undertaken by Dr Jenny Burbage and Lorna Cameron would be of great interest to both riders and retail members who stock sports and riderspecific bras in-store,” said BETA executive director Claire Williams.

“About 900,000 women ride at least once a week and many of them will experience exercise-induced pain at some time. This new guide should go a long way to helping them find a bra that fits well and is beneficial in helping to keep them pain-free and comfortable.”

Copies of The Rider’s Guide to Bras can be obtained free from the BETA online shop, at www.beta-uk.org

EQUISAFETY WORN BY CHAMPIONS

EQUISAFETY LTD 19A TARRAN WAY WEST IND EST MORETON, WIRRAL, CH46 4TT Tel - 0151 678 7182 Email - info@equisafety.com

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

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CONFIDENT HORSEMANSHIP WITH ANNE GAGE December 2016

How Uncertainty Kills Your Horse Riding Confidence

By Anne Gage of Confident Horsemanship What To Do in the Face of Uncertainty To feel confident, you need to learn how to take positive action in the face of uncertainty. Despite the fear and anxiety you feel. That’s how I rebuild my confidence.

That doesn’t mean that you never feel fear or anxiety. Without any fear you would put yourself in life threatening situations. But, instead of allowing fear to manage you, you learn to manage it.

You learn to turn uncertainty around. You become curious. You ask better questions. You become a creative thinker and problem

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When you’ve lost your horse riding confidence, you will also be dealing with uncertainty. You don’t trust your ability to predict or handle your horse’s behaviour. Your mind is full of the ‘what ifs’.

When I was rebuilding my confidence, I struggled with uncertainty. My confidence was shattered when I fell off my usually quiet, safe gelding. Dooley surprised me with a bucking fit. It seemed to come out of the blue – with no warning. After that fall, putting my foot in the stirrup to mount any horse had me shaking and feeling nauseous.

I doubted my ability to predict the horse’s behaviour. I doubted my ability to deal with what might happen. That uncertainty killed my confidence.

Uncertainty Is Part Of Riding Horses There is always a level of uncertainty when you work with horses. You can’t always predict what will happen 100% of the time. You can’t always know how your horse will behave in a particular situation or environment.

We are the same as our horses when it comes to uncertainty. The unknown, the unfamiliar, change – they unsettle us. We feel nervous, uncomfortable and anxious.

Uncertainty is uncomfortable because it triggers the brain’sfight or flight centre. Our prehistoric ancestors’ survival depended on noticing changes and unfamiliar things in their surroundings. It warned them of possible danger. It was best to leave the scene fast and ask questions later.

This innate survival mechanism becomes a problem when it stops you having fun with your horse. You lose your confidence. You lose the dream of the connection and partnership you want to have with your horse.

solver.

Reduce Uncertainty By Becoming Curious Your horse’s behaviour may seem unpredictable sometimes. Just like my young gelding’s did to me that fateful day. But, I assure you that there’s always a reason for what he does (or doesn’t do).

It may be a learned response that needs to be “un-learned”. It may be a natural response to a noise we don’t hear, a movement we don’t see, or a scent we don’t smell. It may be a response to a subtle shift in your energy, your posture of your position in the saddle.

It may be, as it was for Dooley, a reaction to pain. (He was later diagnosed with the chronic muscle disorder, PSSM). There’s almost always a sign that it’s coming. Subtle signs of tension, that most people miss, come before the big behaviour.

These are all subtle signs that the horse is anxious: ● Holding his breath. ● Not blinking. ● Tightness around the muzzle. ● Refusing to move or moving too fast.

Become curious about your horse’s behaviour. Learn more about equine behaviour and psychology. Get a deeper understanding of equine body language.

You’ll gain a better understanding of your horse and his perception of the world. With that deeper understanding, you’ll begin to see with certainty what causes his behaviour. Then you can take positive action to change it. 

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY

We’re getting ready for the holiday season and, in the month of December, you will have the opportunity to win all these wonderful items. To enter simply go to our Facebook page and comment with the Christmas word.

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1

BETA 2017 Calendar

15 calendars to give away!

Worth .56

ÂŁ4

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY December 2016

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3

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A Toggi Tweed Messenger Bag

3 Bags of Saracen RE-LEVE®

A bag of Vitalin Adult Chicken & Potato Food

The Avery Tweed bag is made from 100% wool blend and features real leather trims, an adjustable long length strap, a popper and zip fastening.

RE-LEVE® is a cereal free low in sugar, low in starch high-performance mix.

A bag of Vitalin Adult Chicken & Potato is a complete dog food that will help your dog thrive.

www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

www.vitalinpetfood.co.uk

www.toggi.com

Worth

£14 12kg bag Worth .95

Worth

£32

£65

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5

A Champion Riding Hat Bag

Protect your riding hat with this bag featuring an adjustable strap for easy carrying, ventilation holes, and diamond quilted lining www.championhats.co.uk

6

A Horse & Rider First Aid Kits

The kit provides all the essential items required to cope with that unexpected emergency and the necessary products to deal with minor cuts and grazes. www.robinsonhealthcare.com

Worth

£20

Worth .95

£24

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A Charles Bentley Anti-Bacterial Equestrian Grooming Kit The new Slip-Not collection comes complete with its own colourful, spacious and durable deluxe kit bag which comes with a number of pockets. www.charlesbentley.com

Worth .99

£49

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

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A Euro-star Bay hat and Bain scarf

The Uvex exxential is fully adjustable and lightweight, and available in a variety of designs, including glamour, peace, black matt, brown matt, blue matt and anthracite matt.

Available in sizes xxs-s, s-m, m-l.

Euro-star Bay hat and Bain scarf. Cosy and practical for the yard and town.

www.uvex-sports.com/equestrian

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9

A Uvex Exxential Equestrian riding helmet

CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY

4 Mini Cheeky Ponies and a Sitting Pony

The Mini Cheeky Pony. Made from super soft plush. New Sitting Pony is a great gift as he is suitable for babies but also great for toddlers to play with and take with them on their next adventure.

www.euro-star.de

Worth .96

www.jomanda.co.uk

£14

Worth .95

£12 Worth .95

£99

Worth .71

£18

Worth .95

£9

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11

An Aspey™© Jacket & Matching Hatband

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5 Sterling Silver Snaffle friendship bracelets

Equisafety’s range of quality high visibility wear has recently had a revamp and now offers a more tailored fit, Machine washable. Orange or Pink. Sizes: XS-XXXL.

£89

£29

www.pegasusjewellery.net

www.equisafety.com

Worth .99

New Snaffle friendship bracelet have just been Worth launched this Christmas .95 from Pegasus Jewellery.

Beautiful Sterling silver Snaffle on fabric bracelet with toggle clasp.

The winners can choose from turquoise, pink, black and navy.

A pair of Hot Togs’ Nude Thermal Leggings Hot Togs’ Nude Thermal Leggings are perfect for under white and beige jodhpurs and breeches. They help to keep the rider warm and snug and offer a close but flexible fit thanks to the 24% Spandex content. Available in small, medium and large. Also available in black.

Worth

£15

www.www.hottogs.co.uk l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

WINTER ESSENTIALS December 2016

WINTER

Essentials Winter Time Saving Tips with Gary Foggon Winter does not have to be all about dark nights and early mornings.

In this issue international rider Gary Foggon of Team Black Country Saddles provides some handy hints to make good use of precious time throughout the autumn and winter. bringing your horse in from the field, why not ✷ Before pick his feet out into a rubber skip which will save you having to spend time sweeping the yard.

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place a small plastic football or tennis ball in your ✷ Always horse’s water-bucket to prevent water freezing which allows constant access to water. plenty of haynets and fill them all at once, this can ✷ Buy save time on dark mornings and nights. in a set of overalls to wear over your day-to✷ Invest day clothes, this saves time changing and prevents unnecessary trips home. turning your horse out in a morning, weather ✷ When permitting, try to get your stable ready for the evening.

If all the mucking out is done, water-buckets filled and haynets sorted, you won’t then need to do this in the evening leaving you more time to concentrate on your riding. save time on mucking out why not deep litter your ✷ Tohorse’s bed until you have more time at the weekend. pushing a full wheelbarrow from the stable to the ✷ When muck heap, be sure to throw over a sheet or blanket to prevent mess spilling onto the yard. This will save you from having to sweep the yard. together! Try and join up with a fellow horse ✷ Work owner at your yard and devise a rota where you take it in turns to bring each others horses in from the field or turn them out. This will give you a little more free time.

✷ Prepare buckets of hard feed in advance this can shave a few minutes off your daily routine. time having to brush your ✷ Save horse by investing in a rug with a neck cover.

This is more likely to keep your horse clean and reduces time spent brushing and increases time spent riding. riding, give both your saddle and bridle a ✷ After quick wipe over every time it is used rather than leaving it until it is a major, time consuming task.

GARY’S FAVOURITE SADDLE Gary rides in the Dante Dressage Saddle from Black Country Saddles.

Says Gary: “As soon as you sit in the Dante you feel so comfortable due to the very soft and supple calf leather and memory foam incorporated into the seat, skirt and knee rolls. This helps eliminate pressure points and acts as a shock absorber which really has made a difference to how I feel schooling and training at home, or in the arena at competitions.”

For further information please visit www. blackcountrysaddles.com

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

WINTER ESSENTIALS

Identifying Different Types of Wound with Robinson Animal Health Care

Horses can be accident prone creatures, often injuring themselves when no visible cause can be found. All wounds, even minor ones, require attention to promote healing and avoid infection.

A wound can be categorised as open or closed, with open wounds suffering skin damage and closed wounds as bruises or sprains.

The ability to identify different types of wound is important in order to treat them effectively.

CLOSED WOUNDS Closed wounds usually result in internal bleeding causing swelling, heat and pain. Cold therapy is commonly used to treat this type of injury and is a natural, drug-free way to reduce pain. It lowers the temperature at the site of injury through heat exchange and constricts local blood vessels. This reduces cell damage and fluid build-up.

Open wounds fall into four categories, incised wounds, lacerations and tears, puncture or abrasions.

INCISED WOUNDS Incised wounds often bleed heavily, have clean straight edges and are caused by the skin being penetrated by a sharp object.

Causing little bruising, an incised wound is best suited for stitching, stapling or gluing and will usually heal quite quickly.

LACERATIONS AND TEARS Lacerated wounds are the most common type caused by barbed wire fencing and have a torn jagged appearance with some bruising. This type of wound is more susceptible to infection because of the degree of soft tissue injury and often

requires open wound management.

PUNCTURE WOUNDS Many puncture wounds are tiny and hard to spot but there is usually a tiny trickle of blood or a highly sensitive area around the puncture.

Little blood comes from a puncture wound, unless it has perforated a major blood vessel in which case it may be fatal.

The first sign of a puncture wound is often a swollen and inflamed area which can be over looked.

A common puncture wound is caused when a horse stands on a nail, and the very nature of a foreign body entering the skin carries bacteria deep into the wound leading to infection.

This type of wound must heal from the inside out and usually involves poulticing the wound to draw out any infection.

ABRASIONS Abrasions are superficial skin wounds such as saddle sores and grazes, often only involving the skin and hair. Other than a thorough clean, this type of wound usually requires minimal treatment.

When the skin becomes damaged as a result of a laceration or other injury, the horse loses its first line of defence against infection. Correct first aid measures can significantly assist the healing process.

Serious injuries should always be attended by a veterinary surgeon as soon as possible and always ensure your horse is vaccinated against tetanus.

VetalintexÂŽ Sterile Wound Hydrogel from Robinson Animal Healthcare is a clear, viscose starch based hydrogel dressing, and is a must for any first-aid kit Easy to apply, with a gentle cleansing action, VetalintexÂŽ has excellent donation and absorption properties which have been found to maintain optimum hydration levels, helping to keep the wound moist and promote healing.

Robinson Animal Healthcare has a wide range of products for all your first aid requirements.

For more information on the Robinson Animal Health Care range contact them on 01909 735000 or visit www. robinsonhealthcare.com

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

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CHRISTMAS WISHES December 2016

Christmas Wishes. . from some JONTY EVANS Eventer

of our riders

AMY STOVOLD Dressage Rider 12

“For Christmas I would like the Ascott long quilted jacket from Equetech” Courtesy of Equetech

© Equetech

© Libby Law Photography

“An indoor school and a good placing at Badminton with Cooley Rorkes Drift” Courtesy of Childéric Saddles

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

JESS THOMPSON Dressage Rider “A Freddie Parker signature tee in marl grey, such a smart, quality tee, cotton to keep you cool when you ride, and I’m definitely day dreaming of days warm enough that I can wear short sleeves again, roll on spring!”

Courtesy of Freddie Parker

CHRISTMAS WISHES

AUSTIN O’CONNOR Eventer “A Childéric silhouette girth.

The new Childéric travel bag... to keep my new wife happy!!”

Courtesy of Childéric Saddles

© Libby Law Photography

GEMMA TATTERSALL Olympic Eventer

VICTORIA BAX Eventer

“A super yacht in Key West (I’ve just returned from 2 weeks in Florida!!)

Courtesy of Timothy Foxx and Childéric Saddles

“My Christmas wish is for a shiny new car.

Preferably a Discovery or Range Rover would be amazing!”

Courtesy of Aloeride and Golly Galoshes

GEORGIE SPENCE “A Two horse Van please!”

Courtesy of The Spanish Boot Company

BOBBY HAYLER Dressage Rider “My Christmas wish is to have all my horses go up another level for next year” Courtesy of Dressage Deluxe

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

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SCOTT BRASH December 2016

SCOTT BRASH

Starting over again! © Kit Houghton

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is returning to Switzerland for the last Major in the year 2016: The best show-jumpers in the world will be competing against each other from December 8th – 11th, and on the final Sunday they will be battling it out to claim the victory in the famous “Rolex Grand Prix.” An interview with the current Grand Slam challenger, Scott Brash, about exceptional horses, exceptional rides and last-minute shopping at the foot of the Swiss Alps.

Scott Brash, winner of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ 2016.

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Question: Just one year ago you went down in history as the first rider ever to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. Now, with your back-to-back victory at Spruce Meadows in September, you are once again the title contender. Why is the Rolex Grand Slam still such a strong attraction for you?

Scott Brash: I think it has a strong hold on everyone because Aachen, Calgary and Geneva are the three Majors that every rider wants to win. Every rider wants to be part of the Rolex Grand Slam and have the opportunity to try to do what not many people have done in history.

Q: And if you should succeed in claiming the Grand Slam victory again, it would be particularly legendary. Because this year you didn’t compete in Aachen and Calgary with your long-standing successful partner, “Hello Sanctos”, with whom you were able to win the three Majors in 2014/15, but indeed with “Ursula XII”. Do you think this mare also has the potential to claim the Grand Slam title?

Brash: To be honest, yes I do and it is because she is also an exceptional horse. She is unique and it is rare to have two unbelievable horses in your lifetime, but she is certainly one of them. She was very close at Aachen, coming second, but proved she has been good enough to be there or thereabouts so all eyes are on Geneva for her now.

Q: So you will be bringing “Ursula” to Geneva for the “Rolex Grand Prix”?

Brash: Yes, “Ursula” will be coming to Geneva. We have already started organising her programme straight after Calgary with Geneva in mind. She started her campaign indoors in October to get into the indoor season and we have set her up as well as we could for Geneva.

Q: What are the special challenges of the Major in Geneva as part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping?

Brash: In contrast to Aachen and Calgary and their huge grass arenas, Geneva is indoors for a start. But I think it is different to the other Majors in the sense that the “Rolex Grand Prix” in Geneva is only one round instead of two, so you are nearly guaranteed a jump-off with the top horses and top riders. It is going to be a testing course with a fast jump-off there as well. So technically, it is very different to Aachen or Calgary, but there is going to be fantastic sport and I am looking forward to it.

Q: With its date in mid-December, the CHI Geneva is not only well-known for its great sport, but also for its exceptional atmosphere and the festive ambiance. Do the riders also get into the Christmas mood?

Brash: Geneva is such a wonderful show and they have some great stands where you can buy lots of Christmas gifts and I usually do my last-minute shopping in and around there.

It would probably be early Christmas shopping for me! But I think having Christmas just around the corner lends the show a great ambiance and everyone is in a great frame of mind and that creates a nice atmosphere to ride in.

Q: And, of course, the perfect Christmas present for you would be to finish the competition as the Major winner...

Brash: Well, the “Rolex Grand Prix” will be a tough competition again and extremely hard to win. But I will give it my best shot! 

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

TRIED & TESTED

TRIED & TESTED In the Stirrups Product Reviews

Ariat® Ladies Berwick GTX® Insulated Country Boots in Ebony The Ariat® Ladies Berwick GTX® Insulated Boots are great insulated country boots that will keep your feet warm and dry this winter. The Berwick GTX® Boots feature a premium waterproof full grain leather upper and a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® membrane that ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable.

The Berwick Boots feature 200g Thinsulation Insulation to ensure feet stay toasty warm no matter how cold the weather, a moisture wicking plaid lining and an Extra-luggy Duratread™ outsole with an easy-off kick heel feature. The Berwick Boots offer a full length back zip for for easy taking off and putting on and a lace up front for an adjustable fit.

The Ariat® Ladies Berwick GTX® Insulated Boots features the Ariat® ATS® PRO technology to support and cushion the foot and provide optimum stability for all day comfort and performance. The ATS® PRO system consists of a moisture wicking footbed, a gel cushioned footbed with heel stabiliser for shock absorption and a lightweight composite forked shank for stability.

For further information visit http://www.ariat-europe.com

REVIEW: OUR EDITOR NATASHA PUT THE BERWICK BOOTS TO THE TEST...

Between being a mum, editor and equestrian, any boots I wear are really put to the test. It first thing I liked about the Berwick was the Jodhpur boot style pull at the back of the foot. Once on the boot felt secure and well fitting and I particularly liked the range of adjustment that the laces to the front provided. As someone who has rather slim legs it’s often hard to find well fitting country boots so these were a great success.

Overall the boot was extremely comfortable to wear, even after all day at an event I felt no discomfort or general fatigue. The boots made my feet and legs feel well supported whether walking a course or standing around in a media tent.

If you’re looking for an all round well made boot that doesn’t compromise on style this is the boot for you!

Tasha Coombes l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

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FASHION and SHOPPING December 2016

British Eventing Faux Fur Pom Pom Hat These knitted pompom hats are brought to you by British Eventing. Brilliant at or away from the stables, they have a Faux leather label and oversized Faux fur PomPom. The fleece lining means they are really comfy and available in three great colours; Navy, Multi and Cream. Available in one size.

For further information visit www.equestrian.com Priced at £9.99

Rambo Supreme 420G Heavy Weight Turnout Rug 16

The ultimate in heat retention and comfort.

Made from the strongest, most durable turnout material on the market, 1000D ballistic nylon, which is waterproof and breathable perfect against the winter elements.

Anti-static and anti-bacterial lining, with thermobonded fibrefill which is also excellent for long lasting heat retention.

The surefit Neck design with V-front closure to give freedom of movement to graze. Features include leg arches, reflective strips, wipe clean tail cord, liner loops, three secure cross surcingles, shine enhancing polyester lining and comes with detachable hood. Sizes include 5’6” to 7’3”. 420g filling and is available in Black-Gold and Black-Orange.

For further information visit www.equestrian.com Priced from £257.99

New Crystal Helmet

The NEW Equit’M Air Microfiber Helmet/Crystal is part of the Air Helmet Range. The air system which is composed of three air cushions built-in at the back allows air to be inflated and deflated until the hat fits the rider perfectly, guaranteeing comfort, a custom fit and the perfect position. Available sizes include S/5354, M/55-56 and L/57-58.

For further information visit www.equi-theme.com Rrp £369.00

Ladies Horseware Brianna Waterproof Riding Jacket This breathable jacket is the perfect winter riding jacket which has been designed to flatter the female shape. 100% Polyester 300T Waterproof, breathable, fully taped seams with a padded lining to keep you warm around the yard or when out riding Features include detachable peaked hood, two ways zips and is machine washable. Available colours include Castle Rock and Enamel Blue and in sizes XS to XXL. For further information visit www.equestrian.com Priced from £76.99 l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

FASHION and SHOPPING

Looking for Christmas joy with a tweedy twist?

Purveyors of fine tweed Timothy Foxx have plenty of gift inspiration for your dad, daughter, mother, brother, sister or best friend, so here’s Christmas in just a few clicks.. The ‘Mum who never tells us what she wants’ option is one of Timothy Foxx Wraps for effortless elegance on the run and Timothy Foxx Cushions for the sofa where she finally gets to sit in the evening. Bark Tweed Wrap For further information please visit www.timothyfoxx.co.uk Priced from £180

DATS GOT STYLE!

Lounge Wear To Love!

This gorgeous dog bed from designer dog bed company Pink Whiskers pays homage to dachshund doggies with its cute linen print detail.

Complimenting the doggy fabric, Marl Grey leather envelops the sturdy bed with a fully machine washable bed cover as standard.

Brushed metal rivets give a traditional feel to this stunning contemporary designer bed, which is bound to be the talking point of your home and your dog’s favourite sleeping place!

For further information please visit www.pinkwhiskers.co.uk Price on Application.

Toggi Dinah Knitted Hat

The Dinah Cable knitted hat with cosy fleece lining is super practical for the colder days and is available in 3 seasonal colours.

One size fits all, complete with Toggi branding. One size.

Colours – Bracken, Lagoon, and winter.

For further information please visit www.toggi.com Priced from £25

17 Presented in a luxuriously soft 100% organic flannelbrushed cotton fabric, these new pants feature a relaxed wide leg cut, draw string waistband and block contrast colour stripes on the shins, waistband and contrast embroidered logo on hip. Colours: Navy with white bands and Powder Pink with white bands. Sizing: XS – XL For further information please visit www. whaleofatimeclothing.com Priced from £36.99 The Yvette cable knit scarf with pom poms comes in 3 seasonal colours. One size fits all, complete with Toggi branding.

Colours – Bracken, Lagoon and Winter White.

For further information please visit www.toggi.com Priced from £30

Toggi Yvette Knitted Scarf

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

SARAH SCHAAF AND PATRICK December 2016

By Sarah Schaaf

On the

Twelfth day of Christmas

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Patrick gave to me...

12 Months of bills 11 Fancy jumps 10 Pounds of carrots 9 Muddy blankets 8 Brand new halters 7 Pairs of breeches 6 Months a showing 5 Bales of hay 4 Days at Rolex 3 Broken fences 2 Warm hugs And a year of fun in Kentucky l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

ACCESSIBILITY MARK

Church Farm Equestrian and Pony Club Centre Expands its Services with the Help of Accessibility Mark A Bristol equestrian centre has become the latest riding establishment to gain accreditation to a national scheme backed by RDA and the British Equestrian Federation.

Church Farm Equestrian and Pony Club Centre, based in Keynsham, decided to apply for Accessibility Mark accreditation to develop the long term future of the centre and ensure their services cater for riders of all abilities.

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), in partnership with Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme launched the Accessibility Mark scheme to encourage those who do not already partake in equestrian activities or would not usually have the opportunity to do so, to experience the many benefits that riding can bring.

Owner, Kay Padfield, set up the centre four years ago after teaching freelance all over the country for 25 years.

A small friendly centre, with just two horses and five ponies, Kay initially set up the centre to specialise in children aged between four and twelve after recognising a gap in the market locally.

With a few disabled riders already attending the centre, Accessibility Mark provided an avenue to allow the centre to expand into a new area while taking advantage of Kay’s own previous experience of teaching disabled riders.

The focus for Accessibility Mark will take place during school hours when it hopes to capture interest from specialist schools and day centres, offering creative lesson-planning to provide fun, productive sessions.

As a Pony Club approved centre, Church Farm would like to offer Accessibility Mark clients the opportunity to work with staff on a one-to-one basis towards the Pony Clubs recognised achievement badges.

Kay said: “As a small but busy centre, I try to be inventive in how we can provide our services across the community.

Training for the Accessibility Mark scheme allows us to work with children (and adults) whose requirements are benefited by riding and interacting with horses, but who may prefer to visit during our quieter times.

“I’ve enjoyed teaching RDA in the past and I’m now proud to be able to offer these specialist sessions at Church Farm during school hours.”

Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by RDA following training and assessment.

The close link with the RDA means that they offer continuous support to the establishment to ensure they provide you with a first class service and an experience that aims to be hugely beneficial.

There are currently 38 Accessibility Mark approved centres across the country. 

Accessibility Mark Training Day at Church Farm Equestrian Centre

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Kay Padfield and Ruby Holmes of Church Farm Equestrian Centre To find your nearest RDA Group or Accessibility Mark centre visit www.rda.org.uk

l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

TIM LIPS – LIFE AFTER RIO December 2016

Fun Times

By Tim Lips, Dutch Olympic Eventer

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Outside it’s cold and dark, so that means we go back inside. The Eventing season is over, but I have some fun indoor competitions to look forward to.

© Jessie Gueguen

The season is really over now, but of course we do not sit still! After a period of rest and recuperation I started again slowly with Bayro, resuming our serious training, especially dressage! I actually think this is always a fun time. It gives me a chance to forget the pressures of the big competitions and therefore the time to try some new things instead of test-oriented practices. Keyflow is now a very happy retiree… he is still ridden and kept fit, he really enjoys life. My girlfriend Emma, now riding him and even once participated in a jumping competition.

“It’s like Emma and Keyflow have spent years together” With the competition I had a laugh, I had entered her in the class l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

December 2016

TIM LIPS – LIFE AFTER RIO

Ahead “INDOOR EVENTING IS REALLY GROWING”

Well Filled Calendar In the near future I plan to focus on the indoor competitions, and my Chinese students, because they ride at next year’s China Games. They now have their last show in Europe, so I’m in the French Montpellier to accompany them. After that the horses and later the riders return back to their homeland, somewhere which I will then also be found regularly in order to prepare them for the Games.

My next match is in Paris next weekend. It is a new event, so I’m curious and unwise. Usually state indoor eventing is real kick, it comes with full stands, nice ambience and a lot to see and do. My horse Vakarlos goes along well once again. He’s been injured for a while and should enjoy his first time back out, so I’m excited. A few weeks later I can head to Geneva, again for an indoor eventing competition, so it might be quieter off-season but we have nice things on the schedule. I’ll keep you informed! l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

© Jessie Gueguen

secretly. A B-course in our local area... At first she cried only: “No, no I do not know!” but I think she found it quite exciting to go out with such a top horse. But as experienced as he is, Keyflow can also be quite hot in the ring. Eventually I could still persuade her, but so I didn’t increase the pressure on her further, I did not attend the event. I thought ‘let them be here together”, and it went very well. I’ve watched the video back and it looks like they have been a combination for years. Very cool! So those two might start a few more B / L level events in the future!

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