September 2016 - In the Stirrups Magazine by In the Stirrups

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SEPTEMBER 2016

IN THE STIRRUPS MAGAZINE

T I M L I PRS Life after io

different nationalities, compete at FEI European Championship for Ponies

The question on everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lips:

How DID the horses get to the Rio Olympic Games?

Sensational images from equestrian photographer Marc Moggridge DIZZY JONES:

FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GOLD MEDALLIST NICK SKELTON

LUDGER BEERBAUM:

AN INTERVIEW WITH MR. SHOW JUMPING

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 ÂŁ28 plus shipping costs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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

September 2016

contents Inside this month’s issue… 05 Young Equestrians – KA Horses Equestrian Centre 06 Know Your Horse’s Vital Signs with Robinson

CONTENTS & ED’S LETTER

On the cover: Cedric Lyard

of France riding Cadeau Du Roi. © Marc Moggridge

Animal Healthcare

08 Over thinking by Anne Gage of Confident Horsemanship

09 Tack Care from The Society of Master Saddlers 10 The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2016 16 An interview with Ludger Beerbaum 18 Fashion and shopping 20 Sarah Schaaf and Patrick 22 Getting a horse to the Rio Olympics 25 The Take up the Reins campaign 26 FEI European Championships for Ponies 31 Essex Horse and Pony Protection Society 32 Tim Lips – Life after Rio FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline TWITTER In_the_Stirrups WEBSITE www.inthestirrups

10 03

The nights have rolled in and

as I’m sure we’ll all need them soon. Whilst you’re

it’s time to start planning

warming check out Tim Lips Rio experience, find

for the winter ahead, it’s

out just how and what it took to get the horses to

almost time for the wind,

the Olympics and read our review on Bizzy Bites

rain and ice again. After

– perfect for those of you who stable your equine

the action of the Olympics

friends over night!

most of us are looking at the final shows of the season. Be sure to stay safe in the fading evenings and

Natasha

check those waterproofs are still well, waterproof l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS September 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 two young children, Darcy – 6 and Thomas – 4. Natasha is also supported by Ariat Clothing which ensures she is always in style, yet functional, when at a show or during visits.

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 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.

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, is in hot pursuit of 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

September 2016

YOUNG EQUESTRIANS

Teens Take the Reins at Parkside Stables Young riders at Parkside Stables in Alfreton are the latest to launch a Young Equestrians group; the user-led scheme which allows teens to connect and re-engage with equestrian sport through a fun and informal social hub.

Parkside Stables Young Equestrians Launch The group of thirteen equine enthusiasts began their launch evening with fun ice-breaker games where they got to know each other, before discussing ideas for the future and what they would like to achieve through the scheme. Suggestions included fun ideas such as roller blading and ice skating as well as trying new riding experiences and going on trips to equestrian events. They plan to fund their activities using money raised through bake sales, car washes and shows which will give other riders the chance to take part in competitions and win a rosette. Young Equestrian Hollie, aged 18, said: “I really enjoyed the games tonight as it’s helped us all get to know each other better! I’m looking forward to learning all about the different aspects of the horsey world.” Sixteen year old Gemma added “Young Equestrians brings us all together. Some of us have known each other a long time, but others are new to the group. We already spend time together at the stables but this gives us the perfect environment to socialise and enjoy ourselves.” The evening drew to a close with a

three legged race, before the group posed for photos and tried on their new Young Equestrian polo tops whilst tucking into sweets and cake. Simon and Amanda Stalker, owners of Parkside Stables, said: “We are really pleased with the enthusiasm for Young Equestrians and the excitement has grown over the past few weeks as we’ve been putting the finishing touches to the clubhouse. It was clear they all loved the session tonight from all the chatting and giggles; they even tidied up for us at the end of the session!” Simon and Amanda continued to talk about the importance of allowing the Young Equestrians to take ownership of the group so they can tailor activities around what they want to do “They have some fabulous ideas already; we are looking forward to seeing their plans come to life!” Amanda commented. Originally developed by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme, the Young Equestrians scheme is being delivered through The Pony Club and will target

riding schools across England. Thanks to Sport England funding, Young Equestrians will provide participants with more choice and freedom in how they take part in equestrianism, as well as providing a focus on skill development. Riding schools who deliver the programme will be given access to virtual tools to help them establish their Young Equestrians club that include example session plans, marketing materials and a host of different ideas on how to retain teenagers in equestrian sport. ■

Young Equestrians is a project created by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) legacy programme, in collaboration with The Pony Club. The Sport England Funded programme has been developed to deliver social, informal clubs for young people that provide riding and training opportunities through their local riding school.

If you are a riding school or young person and want more information on how to get involved in the programme please visit www.youngequestrians.club

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

ROBINSON ANIMAL HEALTHCARE September 2016

Know

Your Horse’s Vital Signs VITAL SIGNS

Do you know what is normal in terms of vital signs for your horse? In the case of an emergency this knowledge can prove vital. Here Robinson Animal Healthcare explains… PULSE RATE

If your horse suffers an injury or is unwell, do you know how to test your horse’s vital signs to enable you to spot a problem early or pass on valuable information to your vet before he reaches the yard? In order to know when something is amiss you need to know what is actually normal for a healthy horse and how to check. The vital signs are pulse rate, respiratory rate and temperature and are all used to access the condition of the horse.

TEMPERATURE

The temperature is one of the most useful guides when accessing a horse for illness, with a rise indicating a possible infection, such as an abscess and a fall in temperature being symptomatic of blood loss. For a healthy adult horse the temperature is between 38°C and 38.4°C. To take a horse’s temperature, lubricate the bulb end of the thermometer with petroleum jelly and gently insert into the rectum. Hold firmly for about one minute against the rectum side wall. Any deviation from these normal vital signs should be taken as an indication that something is wrong, however whenever attempting to check any of the vital signs ensure your horse is calm and you are not placing yourself in any danger, if in doubt always leave this to your vet. Robinson Animal Healthcare is a long established manufacturer of animal first aid wound care and absorbents, including market leading brands such as Animalintex® and Veterinary Gamgee®. These products have been tried and tested in the equine market and together offer complete solution to everyday first aid requirements for riders and veterinary surgeons.

Checking the pulse The horse’s resting pulse is between 35 and 40 beats per minute, and is a useful aid to diagnosis; an abnormal resting pulse rate can signify infection, dehydration, stress, pain and an erratic heartbeat. When a horse is in pain the pulse rate will usually rise considerably. The larger and more placid the horse, the slower the rate. A resting rate of above 50 is usually significant. The easiest way to take the pulse is to run your fingers down the inside of your horse’s left cheekbone until you feel the mandibular artery; this is located in the chin groove. Gently press with your first two fingers and record the number of beats over a period of one minute, paying close attention to the strength of the pulse as well as the number of beats.

RESPIRATORY RATE The respiration rate is the number of breaths a horse takes per minute or how often they breathe in and out. The normal resting rate of a healthy adult horse is around 8 – 16 breaths per minute. There should be gentle movement in the nostrils and limited effort noticed in the rise and fall of the flanks. A change in respiration can be noticed by observation as the horse requires more effort to breath; this can be affected by the environment, such as warm weather, and is naturally increased during exercise. l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

Get more Out of your riding

Are you aged between 13 and 18? Do you want to: Make friends Try new sports

Choose your own activities Develop your skills

Get ﬁt

AND have fun?

If so, Young Equestrians is the perfect club for you! No matter what level you are riding at, your local club can oﬀer you more than just the opportunity to ride and has been designed to provide you with more choice and freedom.

It opens up opportunities which will help towards my future and my dream job as a riding instructor.

For more information, and to ﬁnd your local Young Equestrians Club, check out our website:

www.youngequestrians.club

Katie, a Young Equestrian from Carrington Riding Centre

 @youngequestriansoﬃcial  @YoungEq  Young Equestrians  contact@youngequestrians.club

CONFIDENT HORSEMANSHIP WITH ANNE GAGE September 2016 By Anne Gage of Confident Horsemanship

Stop Over Thinking To Build Your Confidence

Over thinking is a common challenge for adult riders that can not only get in the way of your performance, but also negatively impact your confidence. You get in your own way because you become physically and mentally ‘stuck’. As you become frustrated with your lack of progress, you develop more self doubt and less confidence. “When in doubt, go forward” was a phrase my hunter/jumper coach often used when we were schooling over fences. If we didn’t see a distance, then riding forward to the jump was a better option than hesitating and holding back. We were taught to ‘ride forward and ride the rhythm’ rather than focusing on seeing the perfect take off spot. That meant that we didn’t hesitate or get stuck. By riding positively forward, we helped our horse maintain the impulsion needed to get over the jump – even if the take off spot wasn’t ideal. Holding back or hesitating because we weren’t sure meant our horse would either chip in (resulting in a bad take off), stop before the jump or run out at the jump. Our hesitation got in the way. Over thinking causes gridlock in your brain. This busy-ness in your brain prevents you from making decisions as you get stuck in circling thoughts. Over thinking takes you out of the present moment and out of the physical connection with your horse. Your focus is on the problem or the potential problem and keeps your thinking in the past or on the future. This doesn’t work well when working with horses where – because horses live in the present moment – the situation changes moment to moment. You need to be able to focus on solutions, but over thinking prevents that. There is a cure for over thinking. Get out of your head and into your body. Feel what’s happening in your body and in your horse’s body. Be aware of what’s happening in the environment around you. This is what your horse is doing. I can hear you saying ‘easier said than done’. Here are seven suggestions of ways to help you stop over thinking, be in the moment and have more physical awareness and connection:

01 02 03 04

FOCUS ON YOUR HORSE’S RHYTHM AND MAINTAINING IT. PLAY BACKGROUND MUSIC AND MATCH YOUR HORSE’S RHYTHM TO THE MUSIC. COUNT YOUR HORSE’S STEPS – IDENTIFY WHICH FOOT IS STEPPING WHEN. NOTICE THE MOVEMENT OF YOUR SEAT – DO YOU FEEL YOUR HIPS DROP AND THEN SWING FORWARD (LEFT AND THEN RIGHT, LEFT AND THEN RIGHT)? NOTICE WHERE YOUR HORSE HAS PUT HIS FOCUS. IS IT ON YOU OR SOMETHING ELSE? IF IT’S SOMEWHERE ELSE, BRING IT BACK TO YOU BY KEEPING HIM BUSY WITH TRANSITIONS OR CHANGES OF DIRECTION. MAKE UP PATTERNS TO RIDE IN THE ARENA. DON’T RIDE AROUND AND AROUND THE OUTSIDE. BE LIKE A FIGURE SKATER OR BALLROOM DANCER – COVER THE CENTRE OF THE ARENA WITH CHANGES OF DIRECTION. IF THERE ARE OBJECTS (I.E. DRESSAGE LETTERS, PYLONS, POLES, JUMPS, BARRELS, ETC.) IN THE ARENA, MAKE PATTERNS GOING TO, AROUND AND BETWEEN THEM. KEEP CHANGING THE PATTERN. WIGGLE YOUR TOES IN YOUR BOOTS. WIGGLE YOUR FINGERS WITHOUT MOVING YOUR REINS. ROLL YOUR SHOULDERS WITHOUT MOVING YOUR HANDS.

As you let go of the over thinking, you will become more aware of the subtle changes happening in the moment:  in your body (I’ve lost my contact. I need to release the tension in my shoulders, again),  in your horse’s body (His head just came up. What did he notice? Now I’d better help him come back into a calmer frame), and  in the environment around you (the wind’s picking up, I’d better watch for blowing leaves that might unsettle my horse). When you quiet your mind, you decrease your stress and tension, become more connected with your horse, and start moving forward. Enjoy the ride. ■

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

September 2016

THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS

TACK CARE from

The Society of Master Saddlers With a key focus on wanting to ensure all horses and ponies have correctly fitted tack, The Society of Master Saddlers also promotes responsible tack care to ensure that it is well maintained and safe. Here the Society offers guidance and advice on how to look after your tack. As we all know, investing in good quality tack is likely to be one of the most expensive and important purchases you make for you and your horse. Once you have the right saddle, bridle and other tack accessories it is then over to you to ensure they remain in good condition and last for years. Your saddle and bridle should be checked each time you tack up and a more in depth look taken when cleaning. In general leather should be supple and free from cracks. If allowed to dry out, leather becomes brittle and weak, making it prone to splitting. Pay particular attention to straps which are A well used saddle subjected to a lot of stress e.g. girth straps and stirrup leathers. Make sure stitching is secure, metalwork e.g. buckles are not damaged and that holes have not become enlarged. If the tack is in poor condition it can injure you and your horse or cause a serious accident. Checks to tack should be thorough; this will involve turning your saddle upside down to check underneath it and lifting up all flaps. To check a bridle properly it will need to be taken apart as buckles often hide cracks in the leather. Steps to maintain leather must be taken to ensure it stays supple and safe. Ideally tack should be cleaned every time it has been used, but this is not always possible. At the very least bits should be washed in clean water and dried with a clean cloth after they have been used. Also if tack gets wet and muddy it should not be left or it is likely to become brittle or may stretch. Remove mud and dirt with a warm damp cloth and allow it to dry at room temperature, and then apply a leather conditioner.

It is advisable therefore to thoroughly clean your saddle and bridle at least once a week. The aim of thorough cleaning is to remove all dirt and grease and then to feed and condition the leather. There are numerous products available on the market for conditioning leather such as sprays, wipes, soap bars, creams, oils and balms. Always read manufacturer’s instructions carefully to make sure the product is suitable for your particular type of leather. Whether you use a sponge, brush or cloth to clean and apply product make sure it is not too abrasive so that the leather isn’t scratched. To clean metalwork you can use a metal polish, this will leave buckles and stirrups etc looking brighter and clean. Never use polishes on bits though as they may be harmful to your horse. Even if you think you have washed a polish off it is likely a residue is left behind which you cannot see. If a saddle is good quality and well cared for it should last for years, and if it still fits your horse there is no need to replace it. You might like to replace certain parts though such as the girth straps and stirrup leathers. Stitching may also need re-doing on certain parts of your saddle or bridle after a few years. ■ To find your local saddler who can carry out any necessary repairs or your local saddle fitter visit www. mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642.

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

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016 September 2016 Christopher became the first Australian rider to win a Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials title for more than a decade

Australia’s Ch Bettina Hoy lit up the arena on day one of the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, the final leg of the FEI Classics™ 2015/2016, with a beautifully executed Dressage test on Designer 10 that was in a class of its own and looked to beat. The only fault in a show-stopping exhibition of lightness, smoothness and balance seemed to be a bit of tension in a flying change, and, with a score of 34.5, Hoy held a comfortable eight-penalty margin over Bill Levett on Improvise after the first day of Dressage. “I think Designer must have been having a little chat with [my other horse] Seigneur Medicott, who usually does the better test, as he felt great in there,” said an elated Hoy. “I’ve developed a special programme for him in the warm-up because he can get a bit tense. Every time I feel him tighten, I go into rising trot and that helps.” Hoy reported that she had been working hard with her trainer, Sebastian Langehanenberg, as her 12-year-old Westphalian gelding by Dali X “is not built for dressage”. He l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

September 2016

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016

hris Burton wins Burghley had suggested changing from a snaffle bit to a double bridle because having two bits in his mouth seemed to settle the horse. Hoy added: “I’m feeling very motivated after Rio [where she was training a Russian rider]. Burghley holds a special place in my heart and, although it won’t be a dressage competition, I know Designer can do it.” Burghley first-timer Elisa Wallace’s (USA) campaign got off to a good start when she scored 46.8 on the American Thoroughbred Simply Priceless for fourth place at this stage. “He can be quite tense so it’s been a huge journey to get him to be expressive,” she said. “When I looked up at the scoreboard and saw the score, I couldn’t believe it.” The second day of competition saw Christopher Burton set on course to win his first CCI4* on British soil after storming into the lead with a stunning Dressage test on the 17hh Nobilis 18. Burton, who also led the Dressage at the Rio Olympic Games last month, eventually finishing fifth with a team bronze medal, wowed the Ground Jury, Sue Baxter (GBR, President),

Anne Mette-Binder (DEN) and David Lee (IRL), with his graceful riding and the Hannoverian gelding’s luxurious paces and balanced outline., scoring just 30.2 penalties. He was left with 4.3 penalties in hand over first-day leader Bettina Hoy in the top 10 at the end of the dressage phase. “Nobilis was fantastic and I’m so proud of him,” said Burton of the 11-year-old that was initially produced by last year’s Burghley winner, Michael Jung (GER). The pair have won four of their nine international starts and were second at Blenheim CCI3* (GBR) last year. “He can be quirky and he got rather lit up at Badminton [where they fell on the Cross-Country], but here he let me ride him and put my leg on. I can’t believe it.” Last year, five-time Burghley winner Andrew Nicholson watching on television at home, as he recovered from a broken neck. However, the 55-year-old Kiwi never doubted he would return to top level and was back at the event that brings out the best in him, in third place on Nereo, with the excellent mark of 35.2.

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

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016 September 2016 Andrew Nicholson

Oliver Townend

12 Seventy horses completed the Dressage; Rodolphe Scherer (FRA) was eliminated when the Ground Jury decided that Makara de Montiege looked unlevel.

RESULTS AFTER DRESSAGE 1 Christopher Burton/Nobilis 18 (AUS) 30.2 2 Bettina Hoy/Designer 10 (GER) 34.5 3 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo (NZL) 35.2 4 Caroline Powell/Onwards and Upwards (NZL) 37.8 5 Oliver Townend/MHS King Joules (GBR) 38.1 6 Andrew Hoy/Blue Frontier (AUS) 38.3 7 Tim Price/Ringwood Sky Boy (NZL) 38.9 8 Sam Griffiths/Happy Times (AUS) 39.6 9 Blyth Tait/Bear Necessity V (NZL) 40.0 10 Sir Mark Todd/NZB Campino (NZL) 42.2 Christopher Burton and Nobilis 18 seemed untouchable at the end of a challenging Cross Country day. They had the second fastest time of the day – finishing just 8 seconds over the optimum time of 11 minutes 11 seconds – and had two

fences in hand to aid his win on the final day. Burton had to wait until nearly the end of the day and admitted to nerves. “Sitting watching in the riders’ tent didn’t help,” he confessed. “But I’m delighted now; the horse gave me a great feel.” Experienced antipodean riders dominated an exciting day and filled seven of the top 10 places. Last year’s runners-up Tim Price (NZL) and Ringwood Sky Boy were in second place again, with the third fastest round of the day (6 time penalties), and five-time winner Andrew Nicholson (NZL) was lying in third on the 16-year-old Nereo, collecting 12 time penalties. “Nereo doesn’t really like it at Burghley, because he’s a long-striding horse and finds the undulations difficult, but he always does the job,” said Nicholson. “I’ve got a soft spot for him. I’ve taken him all round the world and he always comes up with the goods.” British number one Oliver Townend, fifth after Dressage on MHS King Joules, was last out on course and was going well until he missed his line at the Trout Hatchery. Townend then retired after a run-out at the third element of the Discovery Valley (27), but he was left the best-placed of the home side in 10th place on his first ride, Samuel Thomas. Forty riders completed with 28 clear rounds; Holly PayneCaravella (USA) is best of the 16 Burghley first-timers in 17th place on Never Outfoxed.

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

September 2016

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016

RESULTS AFTER CROSS COUNTRY

I’M FEELING VERY MOTIVATED AFTER RIO. BURGHLEY HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART AND, ALTHOUGH IT WON’T BE A DRESSAGE COMPETITION, I KNOW DESIGNER CAN DO IT

1 Christopher Burton/Nobilis 18 (AUS) 30.2 + 3.2 = 33.4 2 Tim Price/Ringwood Sky Boy (NZL) 38.9 + 6.0 = 44.9 3 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo (NZL) 35.2 + 12.0 =

admitted that she was disappointed with her Dressage mark, which left her in 22nd place. “I feel as if I’ve been digging myself out of a hole from the start, first after the Dressage and then when I got time penalties with the wrong line at the Dairy Farm on the Cross Country. But now, of course, I’m delighted.” Cedric Lyard (FRA) on Cadeau du Roi and Oliver Townend (GBR) on Samuel Thomas benefited from clear Jumping rounds and rose to fifth and seventh places, split by Bettina Hoy (GER), sixth, who incurred eight faults on Designer 10. Only three other riders achieved clears over Richard Jeffrey’s influential Jumping track: Shane Rose (AUS) on Virgil, 16th, Tim Price on Bango, 21st, and Ros Canter (GBR) on Allstar B, 25th of the 38 finishers. Bill Levett (AUS) withdrew Improvise overnight when in ninth position. Andrew Nicholson was also pleasantly surprised

47.2 4 Jonelle Price/Classic Moet (NZL) 48.5 + 1.6 = 50.1 5 Bettina Hoy/Designer 10 (GER) 34.5 + 19.2 = 53.7 6 Sir Mark Todd/NZB Campino (NZL) 42.2 + 16.8 = 59.0 7 Caroline Powell/Onwards and Upwards (NZL) 37.8 + 21.6 = 59.4 8 Cedric Lyard/Cadeau du Roi (FRA) 46.0 + 13.6 = 59.6 9 Bill Levett/Improvise (AUS) 42.5 + 20.0 = 62.5 10 Oliver Townend/Samuel Thomas ll (GBR) 53.4 + 9.6 = 63.0

Bettina Hoy

Christopher Burton lived dangerously to the last moment on the final day of competition, the jumping. Such was Burton’s supremacy after the first two phases that he entered the Jumping arena with four fences in hand, but he did manage to hit four – if he’d had another he would have handed a sixth Burghley victory to Andrew Nicholson, who rose a place to be second on Nereo with just one down and a couple of time penalties. Jonelle Price scored her best CCI4* result this year, third on Classic Moet with just four faults, and her husband, Tim, who had taken the pressure off Burton with his three fences down on Ringwood Sky Boy, ended up in fourth place. “I tried to keep it interesting for you all,” said Burton wryly. “Nobilis is usually a careful jumper, but he felt a bit tired and the ground was perhaps a little dead, but that’s three-day eventing for you. “Never in my wildest dreams did it occur to me that I would win Burghley. I’d walked past all the plaques on Winners’ Avenue – all these old boys with their names on them! – and thought it would be nice to have my name there too.” Andrew Nicholson may not quite count as an “old boy”, but he is 21 years older than Burton and he admits that he is not back to full strength after breaking his neck 12 months ago. “You don’t know how special this is,” he told the television cameras. Jonelle Price, who scored her best ever Burghley result,

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

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016 September 2016

Jonelle Price

I FEEL AS IF I’VE BEEN DIGGING MYSELF OUT OF A HOLE FROM THE START to find himself the recipient of 20,000 USD for leaping into third place in the FEI Classics™ 2015/2016, an astonishing achievement considering he has only competed at two CCI4* events this season – he was fifth at Luhmühlen in June. No one was ever going to catch Michael Jung (GER), the runaway winner of the 40,000 USD FEI Classics™ 2015/2016 first prize with victories at Kentucky and Badminton plus a second place at Pau last year, but Tim Price, who was third at Pau and fourth at Luhmühlen as well, managed to hold onto second place and he takes home a cool 30,000 USD. It has been an FEI Classics™ season of great thrills and stories, but one man has stolen the show and set the standard: the unmatchable Michael Jung. 

FINAL RESULTS AT BURGHLEY 1 Christopher Burton/Nobilis 18 (AUS) 30.2 + 3.2 + 16 = 49.4 2 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo (NZL) 35.2 + 12.0 + 6 = 53.2 3 Jonelle Price/Classic Moet (NZL) 48.5 + 1.6 + 4 = 54.1 4 Tim Price/Ringwood Sky Boy (NZL) 38.9 + 6.0 + 12 = 56.9 5 Cedric Lyard/Cadeau du Roi (FRA) 46.0 + 13.6 + 0 = 59.6 6 Bettina Hoy/Designer 10 (GER) 34.5 + 19.2 + 8 = 61.7 7 Oliver Townend/Samuel Thomas ll (GBR) 53.4 + 9.6 + 0 = 63.0 8 Caroline Powell/Onwards and Upwards (NZL) 37.8 + 21.6 + 5 = 64.4 9 Sir Mark Todd/NZB Campino (NZL) 42.2 + 16.8 + 8 = 67.0 10 Kristina Cook/Star Witness (GBR) 52.9 + 12.0 + 4 = 68.9

About the Burghley winner Christopher Burton, 34, is the current world number two. He has won Adelaide CCI4* twice, in 2008 on Newsprint and in 2013 on the catch ride TS Jamaimo, but he really sprang into the public consciousness with a brilliant trailblazing Cross Country ride at the London Olympic Games in 2012 where he finished 16th on Holstein Park Leilani. Burton, who is married to fellow rider Rebekah, has been settled in Britain, in Surrey, for five years, notching up several good international placings including third and fourth places at Burghley last year on TS Jamaimo and Haruzac, and second place on Nobilis 18 at Blenheim CCI3*. This year, he won the CCI3* at Saumur on Santano ll, his ride in the Rio Olympic Games where he led after the Cross Country phase and finished

in eventual fifth place with a team bronze medal. Nobilis 18 is an 11-year-old Hannoverian-bred gelding by Nobre owned by Sue Lawson, Carolyn Townsend and Chris Burton.

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September 2016

THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 2016

Images Â©burghleyimages.photoshelter.com

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AN INTERVIEW WITH LUDGER BEERBAUM September 2016 Ludger Beerbaum together with the CHIO Aachen organisers Frank Kemperman (left) and Michael Mronz (right) while visiting the Great Wall of China.

LUDGER BEERBAUM

Four times Olympic Champion Ludger Beerbaum: An interview with Mr. Show Jumping – “Father” of the Longines Equestrian Beijing Masters

It is everything but a secret that Ludger Beerbaum is the face of show jumping in Germany. However, he is also a true superstar in China too. Together with further partners, he initiated the “Longines Equestrian Beijing Masters” six years ago. Next week, international top stars will once again be competing against the best Chinese riders in the legendary Olympic stadium, the “Bird’s Nest”. Today, on Friday, “Mr. Show Jumping” is celebrating his 53rd birthday. We spoke to him about him stepping down from the German national team, his plans for the future and the unique concept of the equestrian show in Peking. Question: A few days ago you announced you will no longer be riding for the German national team. What is stronger the feeling of melancholy or the joy about what is to come? Ludger Beerbaum: Neither really at the moment. Initially I am satisfied with the decision I have taken and will just wait and see what comes my way. I am at peace with myself and think it was the right decision at the right point in time. Everything that happens now, will happen. I will gladly accept it.

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Longines Beijing Masters / Arnd Bronkhorst)

September 2016

AN INTERVIEW WITH LUDGER BEERBAUM

Q: But you will still continue to compete at international level? LB: Yes, exactly.

Federation, the CEA, of course. As well as the organisers of the CHIO Aachen, who are on board for the fourth year running.

Q: Training aspiring young talents will play a considerably bigger role in your sporting life in future… LB: It has always played a major role. I have already given courses in the future or had young riders here. Take Marco Kutscher, Philipp Weishaupt, Henrik von Eckermann, for instance, they all started off here as young lads, and of course I will continue to do that too. But in future I will be focusing more on other regions. In the same way that I am currently travelling through Asia with the Longines World Equestrian Academy or inviting riders from Asia to come to Riesenbeck, to train them.

Q: The show will be staging its in the meantime sixth edition from September 1st-4th. What is the special thing about its concept? LB: It is the only show in China, where really international top riders – due to the quarantine regulations on borrowed horses – compete against Chinese riders in the same class. In contrast to the Global Champions Tour in Shanghai, for example, which we fly over or, but where the Chinese only sit on the stands and watch us. In the Bird’s Nest they really have the opportunity to compete against us with their horses.

Q: Can you tell us more about the promotion work of the youngsters in China that you are involved in? LB: Our aim with the Academy is to train young people and make their way onto the international equestrian sport circuit easier. That is the target of the Academy and that is what I would like to be acknowledged for in five, eight or ten years’ time. Q: You have been following the development of the equestrian sport in China for many years. How do you assess this development? LB: I have been involved in the Chinese equestrian sport market since 2006. Things are growing extremely quickly there, every year there are more shows, more competitors, above all more young people, who are finding their way to horses. But there is actually a huge need for the conveyance of know-how. And whereas the one development is indeed fast, the development in the field of know-how is unfortunately slower. There is a great need to catch up, this starts with the care of the horses through to the riding abilities and basics. Q: What role does the Longines Equestrian Beijing Masters play in the development of the equestrian sport in China? LB: It is a highlight in the Chinese event calendar and is a big goal for many young people to be able to ride in this traditional sports venue, the Bird’s Nest, one day. As such, it is a big motivation factor. But many stages have to be passed on the way there, this is where the Academy comes into play again. But the motivation factor is definitely a very important cornerstone, without doubt. Q: Which other partners are on board in Peking, explain the organisation structure? LB: On the one hand there is of course the Dashing Equestrian, the company that holds the contracts with the Bird’s Nest and the Federation locally, and who ultimately carries the economic risk for the event. Then, the Chinese

Q: What course should Longines Equestrian Beijing Masters take? What are your short and mid-term goals? LB: The biggest goal is for the event to progress from its current 3-star rating into a 5-star show. And that we will then also be able to compete against the Chinese riders on our own horses. How fast this will be achieved, not only depends on us, but also on the quarantine regulations, the EU, the Chinese, the introduction of a vaccination status in China and other points. I can’t say whether this will take a year, two or three. Q: You won in the Bird’s Nest last year. How do you rate your chances of defending this title? LB: Ultimately, that depends on the horse I am allocated, I drew a really good horse last year and simply had the best chance to win as a result. Q: How will you celebrate your birthday? LB: I haven’t got any plans. I hope no one will notice because it isn’t a round or special birthday, it is just 53. So there is no plan to celebrate it in a special way. It is a normal weekday too, so I hope it just passes by quite normally. LONGINES EQUESTRIAN BEIJING MASTERS 2016

September 2nd – 4th, 2016, Peking, Bird’s Nest

International riders: Ahlmann, Christian (GER) Beerbaum, Ludger (GER) Bost, Roger-Yves (FRA) Delestre, Simon (FRA) Dubbeldam, Jeroen (NED) Kutscher, Marco (GER) Richard, Jane (SUI) Schröder, Gerco (NED) Wathelet, Gregory (BEL) Whitaker, John (GB)

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FASHION and SHOPPING September 2016

Bizzy Bites boasts a tasty new flavour and lower price Bizzy Bites, the multi-functional, three-in-one stable toy, is now available with a fantastic, new garlic-flavoured 1.1kg refill and an even lower price tag of only £29.99 – delivering long-lasting fun for horses and ponies, and passing on handy savings for owners. This innovative teether and stable toy features three key components – a brightly coloured, hard-wearing, textured outer case with rotating wings for ultimate interaction, a chunky edible refill in a choice of three flavours (original, mint and the new garlic) and four mint-infused biodegradable sponge inserts concealed inside for a horsey game of hide-and-seek. Horses and ponies just love the smell and will often throw Bizzy Bites around while searching for the source of the scent. Bizzy Bites, which can be hung on the wall, attached to the door or simply left on the ground, have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of boredom and stress such as wind-sucking, crib-biting and weaving. They are perfect for helping to keep a horse occupied during long periods of time spent in the stable or in the lorry when travelling to events.. Developed by leading equine nutritionists, the toy’s refillable centre is made from delicious natural ingredients that have been cooked at extremely high temperatures to create a strong, healthy and tasty core that is larger and more resilient than similar products on the market. In fact, it has been shown to last 10 times

Fashion With Function The Equiline Renata Jacket from premium retailers Dressage Deluxe is a super stylish quilted jacket styled in a soft shell breathable fabric. Designed to compliment your curves, this jacket features a clever elastic rib detail in tone colour, which gently hugs without adding bulk to give a sleek silhouette. Two Silver buttons on the cuff closure, two way full length zip, a bold coloured logo and Silver graphic embroidery to the centre of the back ensure that this jacket combines fashion with function. Available in Blue & Black. Sizes: XS – L. For further information about Dressage Deluxe Free Phone: 0800 321 3001. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk Rrp: £162

See Tried & Tested

on Page 31

longer than its competitors and can be bought separately for £7.50 (original), £8.50 (mint) and £8.50 (garlic). The Bizzy Bites complete kit includes: Bizzy Bites toy, £25; original refill, £7.50; and mint-infused sponges, £2.50. Each taste-bud-tickling refill will keep horses and ponies happy for up to three weeks (six days on average) because its solid consistency means that they can lick and scrape – but they can’t chew! What’s more, Bizzy Bites’ low sugar content of 3.8 per cent delivers only the same amount of sugar consumed during four hours of grazing, which makes the stable toys perfect for equines on a calorie-controlled or low-starch/sugar diet. For further information about Bizzy Bites or to find your nearest stockist, please contact jasmin@bizzybites.co.uk or telephone 01296 399319.

SURF INTO A NEW SEASON WITH STYLE Whale Of A Time Clothing is an exciting new men’s & women’s label, which bridges the gap between function and fashion with a range of easy to wear wardrobe staples, from hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts through to accessories. Based in Norfolk, the British designed brand takes influence from country living and surf life to offer garments which look and feel great, whether you are hitting the countryside, city, yard, bar or beach! Clean geometric stripes sit across oversized ‘boyfriend’ sweaters and simple classic T-shirts feature graphic print detail on sleeves with embroidered contrast logo. Accessories naturally fit in around the core pieces of this relaxed collection, with the integration of organic materials at the heart of their designs. With a growing fan base of celebrities choosing to wear the brand, this unique label is rapidly becoming one to watch and wear. General Enquiries: 07765 433 196. Shop At: www. whaleofatimeclothing.com

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September 2016

FASHION and SHOPPING

Simply charming Hiho Silver has added six new designs to its Charm Collection. The charms are made from solid sterling silver and have lobster clasps that make them easy to attach to necklaces, bracelets and car keys. The six new charms are exclusive to Hiho and include horseshoe, dog, hammered heart, star, flat heart and butterfly designs. The butterfly, star and heart styles are ideal for engraving too. “Our Charm Collection has grown to accommodate demand – people love the fact that they can customise what they wear to make it individual to them,” said Emma Warren from Hiho Silver. “All the charms are exclusive to us and are perfect for people with particular passions or hobbies. The option to engrave makes the charms even more special. They’re so adaptable too; we have clients adding them to zips on purses and handbags, their beloved dog’s collar or horse’s bridle, a favourite multi link or pearl bracelet, a snake chain necklace – the possibilities are endless! “Due to the way our charms attach, they’re easily interchangeable and can be mixed around as desired, or added to as birthdays, Christmases and other special occasions come and go.” Hiho’s Charm Collection is made up of clip on charms and beautiful beads, which can be added to many items of jewellery, but also work well on the company’s Charmlink Sterling Silver Necklace and Bracelet. The six new exclusive charms cost just £20 each, so there’s never been a better time to customise your look or give a meaningful gift to a special friend. For more information, see www.hihosilver.co.uk or call 01460 221006.

What colour will you choose? A bespoke saddle from the Sue Carson Saddles range is a fabulous addition to any tack room and with the option to add a back cantle in any colour of leather from a very wide palette will ensure a gorgeous individual appearance. All Sue Carson Saddles are handcrafted in the UK using the very highest quality materials and each is individually measured and fitted to both horse and rider for the ultimate in comfort and performance. So will your choice be a patriotic red, white or blue, perhaps a deep, rich purple with swarovski crystals or sumptuous, opulent gold? With a range of dressage, jumping, show, pony or GP saddles and a rainbow of colours to choose from, your new saddle will not only be a perfect fit for you and your horse, it will look completely unique too. New bespoke saddles are priced from £2700, which includes initial and final fittings. Contact the Sue Carson Saddles office to find out more and discuss your ideas on 01629 540343 or visit www.suecarsonsaddles.co.uk

A Great Jacket for an Extra Layer The Equit’M EL Jacket Price £54.99 The Equit’M EL Jacket is a lightly quilted jacket to wear by itself or as an extra layer for added warmth during the colder months. Made in a polyester satin with slanted v quilting, the jacket has a fitted cut with integrated straight flat pockets. The jacket has a high collar with contrasted striped ribbing on the inner side and a 260g polyfill padding. It features a two-way tri-colour zip with punched metal rivet and pull tab with elasticated cuffs. The jacket is adjustable on the lower hem thanks to a stretch drawstring with stops on both sides, and two inner pockets are included in the lining. It is machine washable at 30°c. Colour Navy. Sizes XS to Large. Available from www.equestrian.com l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

SARAH SCHAAF AND PATRICK September 2016 By Sarah Schaaf Sarah is a new member of the In the Stirrups team, and we look forward to reading about Patrick’s adventures each month.

A Case for the

Senior Equine

While watching the Olympics, I was, like most, enthralled with the tests that Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro put in. At age 13, Valegro is expected to retire from international competition. Grand Prix Dressage horses, in the Olympics, are required to be eight years old, and many of the horses competing were in their late teens. In many other disciplines, these horses would be considered much to “old” to be competing. Not letting their age get the better of them, these horses are proving that horses can still be at the top of their game even in their “later” years. One of the first questions I get asked about Patrick at our demonstrations is “how old is he?”. Many think he is a foal due to his size, but others are astounded that, at 22 years of age, he is still out-jumping horses four times his size. Another question

soon to follow is “shouldn’t you retire him?” I understand that there is a stigma concerning age and activity, but age most certainly doesn’t mean a horse is no longer skilled or useful. Age does not necessarily need to be a reason to retire a horse. If the horse is able, sound of body and mind, and enjoys its work, I see no reason for it to retire. As a horse ages, one should consider what they can handle, and adjust their training and showing regiments accordingly, but it does not necessarily mean that the horse needs to quit altogether. They may need to have supplements for their joints and need extra time to warm up and cool down, and they may not always be in the mood to work. Even if you are not able to ride your horse anymore, there is plenty of fun to be had “in hand”. Teach them tricks, or just take them on a nice walk around the farm.

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September 2016

SARAH SCHAAF AND PATRICK

My theory is that, like people, horses that are no longer active quickly deteriorate in health. Horses that continue to work, even if it is minimal, are the ones who live to ripe old ages, and seem to continue to get around without as much trouble. So don’t give up on your senior horses, and don’t overlook one because it’s “older”. An older horse has more to teach you than any other. I’m having more fun and success with Patrick in his senior years than I ever had before. He is full of personality and wisdom. He doesn’t need me to tell him what to do anymore- he knows his job and loves it. I love my senior horse, and I am thankful for all he has to teach me! 

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GETTING A HORSE TO THE RIO OLYMPICS September 2016

How do horses get to the Rio Olympic Games?

By plane of course!

An Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777-F taking horses to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games takes off from London Stansted Airport. As the first group of Olympic horses departed from London Stansted Airport on a special cargo plane bound for Rio 2016, it marked the start of the Olympic dream for the world’s best equine athletes. With 34 horses from 10 nations on board, the equine cargo worth multiple millions, was loaded into customized pallets for the almost 12-hour flight aboard an Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777-F which was organised by Peden Bloodstock left the UK at 15.20 BST on 29th July.

A selection of horse carry on luggage

Eventing horses from Great Britain, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Japan, Italy and China were on board the flight out of Stansted, the first of nine shipments delivering more than 200 horses to Rio International Airport, en route to the Olympic Equestrian Centre in Deodoro Olympic Park. The highly complex operation involved three hubs in Europe and America: Stansted, England, Liege in Belgium and Miami in the USA. The competing horses and their riders represented 43 nations from around the globe in the Olympic disciplines of Dressage, Jumping and Eventing. The question is, do horses get air miles? Stansted flight facts:  Estimated flight time Stansted – Rio: 11 hours 40 mins  Aircraft detail: Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777-F  17,500 kgs of horses flying from Stansted  515kg is the average weight of an Eventing horse (630kg is the average weight of a Dressage horse and 610kg for Jumping horses)  9,900kg of horse equipment  6,000 kg of feed (doesn’t include feed they’ll eat on the flight)  40 litres of water per horse  34 Eventing horses – representing Great Britain, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Japan, Italy and China

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September 2016

GETTING A HORSE TO THE RIO OLYMPICS

On the flight were 34 horses from 10 of the nations competing in Equestrian at Rio 2016

In-flight wear – horses travel in comfort and style Baggage allowance: Just like human flights, each equine passenger has an allocated baggage allowance, by weight – however this includes the horse itself! Plus water, hay, 30kg shavings as bedding, water buckets, feed buckets, tack bags (for saddles and bridles), rugs and any spare equipment.

Each horse is also allowed: 1 large haynet, water and his or her own personal bucket, and a small overnight bag with a spare headcollar (halter) and rug, in case it gets chilly. In-flight entertainment: What are the horses’ favourite in-flight movies? The Horse Whisperer, Black Beauty, Seabiscuit, National Velvet and its sequel International Velvet.

A horse bound for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games is loaded into its stable for the flight

In-flight meals and drinks – bran mash (a bit like porridge) before they get on the flight, then hay and water throughout the flight. Some like apple juice in their water to make it a bit tastier Passports: Every horse has a passport but, unlike human athletes, they must be microchipped to travel. They all also have an export health certificate. In-flight wear: Horses, like people, like to travel in comfort. Some may wear a light rug but generally wear as little as possible to stay cool and comfortable. Most will wear protective leg gear – a bit like flight socks!

Every horse heading out to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games travels with its own passport

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Check-in: Flights are a carefully orchestrated operation though Peden Bloodstock, so check-in is a very civilised affair, no fighting for the best seats! All have arrival slots at the airport so that vet checks can be carried out, and loading follows a specific planned order to place all passengers in the right part of the plane.

First Class/Business/Economy: All Olympic horses travel in style, in 112cm wide stalls, with two horses per pallet – the human equivalent of business class. This gives them plenty of room to feel comfortable, but there is the option to upgrade to first class. Cabin crew: Specially trained staff fly with the horses, looking after their welfare, comfort and safety. They are known as Flying Grooms. Stallions at the front: Stallions travel at the front of the plane so they aren’t distracted on-flight by the mares. Is there a doctor on board? This is never an issue if you’re a flying horse, there are always vets on board to ensure happiness and comfort throughout. Aircraft facts: The horses fly on an Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777-F aircraft – this is a freight plane, and one especially equipped for the safe and comfortable transport of horses. It has custom-designed horse stalls and controlled temperature zones to ensure maximum comfort and minimal stress for the horses and comes complete with trained and experienced expert personnel who know how to handle horses to safeguard their welfare.  l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

September 2016

THE TAKE UP THE REINS CAMPAIGN

Following in the footsteps of gold medallist Nick Skelton The Olympic gold medal-winning success of 58-year-old British showjumper Nick Skelton seems to be rubbing off, proving it’s never too late to enjoy horse riding. Dizzy Jones, 60, from Goring-by-Sea, West Sussex, seized the chance to get a feel for life in the saddle when the Take up the Reins campaign’s mechanical horse RoboCob visited Ilam Park (Thursday 25 August), encouraging everyone to #GetHorsey. Dizzy has set herself a challenge to do something different every month of her landmark year and followed a parachute jump last month with a ride on RoboCob at the National Trust venue, near Ashbourne, Derbyshire. The Take up the Reins campaign, devised by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and supported by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) participation initiative to encourage more people into the sport*, aims to get those of all ages and backgrounds connecting with horses. All those who have a ride on RoboCob on the Take up the Reins Tour of Great Britain receive a goody bag with a booklet on getting started and vouchers for a £10 Equine Taster Experience (towards a riding session) and a free pair of riding gloves when buying their first pair of jodhpurs and boots. “People are really getting to understand the advantages of being around horses – not just the sheer pleasure of riding in open countryside, but also the health benefits,” said BETA executive

director Claire Williams. “Seeing Charlotte Dujardin and 58-year-old Nick Skelton win gold medals in Rio is also encouraging for those who have thought of riding but never tried it. Take up the Reins is really capturing the public’s imagination.” For further information, visit takeupthereins.co.uk. 

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FEI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR PONIES September 2016

GERMANY Takes Almost Every Medal at FEI European Championships for Ponies

By Tonya Bille Nielsen

The Danish National Equestrian Centre, Vilhelmsborg was pleased to welcome the best ponies in Europe from around 22 different nationalities, to compete at FEI European Championship for Ponies sponsored by Equsana from the 17 – 21 August 2016

Germany’s Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel and Massimiliano 3, gold individual and freestyle dressage and part of the German gold medal winning team at the FEI European Championships for Ponies 2016 There is no doubt that Vilhelmsborg was exited to welcome one of this year’s most spectacular events on Danish grounds when hosting the FEI European Championships for Ponies in the three disciplines of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing. With huge support from the municipality of Aarhus, Vilhelmsborg is fully equipped to welcome the many international riders and their ponies.

Three Spectacular Arenas Vilhelmsborg made use of a total of 50 hectares of land, to create the three arenas for the championships. The jumping and dressage arenas were pre-established but both have been upgraded and were now ready for both the audience and participants. The eventing course is a total of 3.8 km long and built by the Swedish course designer Lars Christensson and Team Jørgensen from Kalundborg. The dressage arena was located in the beautiful settings of the courtyard surrounded by the stables. The jumping arena was the main

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September 2016

FEI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR PONIES Riders of the Italian team on the Podium. From left: Alessandro ORLANDI, Sofia Manzetti, Camilla Mainardi, Priscilla Pigozzi Garofalo and Chef D’Equipe Angelo Cristifoletti

arena, here there were plenty of life in the shape of 30 different stands and a catering area.

Best Dressage Ponies in Europe

The dressage team competition successfully kicked off Wednesday at the Europeans where 29 riders and ponies competed in the first part of the test, while the remaining 32 riders competed on Thursday. 15 nations participated in the team competition which the audience watched with great excitement. Nobody could beat the impressive results of Germany, Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel and Massimiliano 3, Tabea Schroer and Danilo 80, Inga Katharina Schuster and NK Cyrill, Tabea Schroer and Danilo 80, who claimed gold with a team score of 222.666.

Picture from the podium of the Individual Dressage Winner before the Freestyle. From left: Inga Katharina Schuster, Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel, Louise Christensen

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FEI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR PONIES September 2016

Germany, Anna Lena Schaaf

Host nation Denmark was rewarded with silver for a score of 217.513 while Holland received bronze with 216.077. Friday was also the day for the first part of the individual dressage test in which 36 riders and ponies competed. Once again Germany showed their great talents with four riders placed in the leading positions: Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel and Massimiliano 3 was placed as best in class on a score of 76.244, second was Inga Katharina Schuster and NK Cyrill on 75.293, third was Tabea Schroer and Danilo 80 on 73.878 and the last German, Eileen Henglein and Cinderella M WE, were in fourth on 72.366. On Saturday 25, riders and ponies competed in the second half of the individual championship with Danish rider Louise Christensen and Vegelins Goya the best of the day’s competitors, moving into third with a score of 72.585. However, Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel and Massimiliano held on to their overnight lead and took the gold – none of the other competitors could reach this stunning gelding and it’s talented 12-year-old rider, with the audience loving their high quality performance and the way they made everything seem so easy. Finishing in silver was Germany’s Inga Katharina Schuster and her pony NK Cyrill, while Denmark’s Louise Christensen and Vegelins Goya won the bronze medal. As it was a sunny Sunday at Vilhelmsborg the dressage freestyle test was a very successfully event and a huge audience

attended the entertaining test to music. The German riders dominated the competition once again with Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel and Massimiliano winning a third gold medal and Tabea Schroer on Danilo again winning silver. Danish Louise Christensen on Vegelins Goya again won bronze.

Everything can Happen in Eventing The Eventing riders had their first ride in the team competition when 25 riders and their ponies performed their dressage test on Thursday. The second half of the team competition was finished Friday with the remaining 25 riders. After the dressage test the Germans put themselves in a very strong position as their first three riders were placed 1st, 2nd and 4th. The British riders ranked second all performing with great intensity – they had with them a dedicated team of supporters who had dressed up in Union Jacks and were cheering on the side at every test. The Belgians placed in third after the Dressage. Saturday saw the Eventers head out on the cross country course, with Germany’s Calvin Böckmann with Askaban B keeping his place in the lead of the competition on his dressage score of 38.3. In second position were Anna Lena Shaaf with Pearl 98, also from Germany on 41.4, and third was Great Britain’s Saffron Cresswell with Cuffesgrange Little Ric on 44.10. All three had a great round around the new and stunning cross country track, showing off high speed and

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September 2016

FEI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR PONIES

well prepared ponies. The track was difficult but also highly technical, which was a huge challenge to many besides the top three riders. In the Team competition there were eight teams competing, and after the cross country Germany held the leading position, once again showing great power and strength with their young pony riders who were performing their absolute best, France moved up into second and Great Britain in third, with Belgium moving out of their bronze position after dressage after some riders finding the cross country challenging. But much could still happen, when the riders were to hit the show jumping arena on Sunday morning. On Sunday, the eventing riders took to the large show jumping arena for the final day of the European Championships competition. Both the individual as well as team medals were given away, and also here Germany showed their strength winning both competitions. In the team, Germany were clear leaders with a difference of almost 20 penalties between them and Great Britain who placed second. France took home the

bronze. In the individual competition Anna Lena Schaaff and Pearl 98 jumped a clear round to take Gold, finishing on her dressage score of 41.4 and overtaking fellow teammate Calvin Böckmann and Askaban B, who had a very unexpected and expensive stop at one of the first fences on the course, moving them down to silver on a final score of 43.3. The bronze-medal was given to the Belgian rider, Jarno Verwimp and the 6-yearold pony Edition Limitee Dew Drop who jumped a clear round, moving them up from fifth place after cross country to finish on their dressage score of 44.3. A costly fence down meant Great Britain’s Saffron Cresswell, third after cross country, moved out of the medals to finish in fifth. A very surprised and touched Anna Lena Schaaf said after the medal ceremony: “I am very pleased and it is yet quite unbelievable. I think I won’t realize what just happened before I get back home.”

Exciting Show Jumping Final On the show jumping course 54 riders completed

Great Britain, Jack Whitaker

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FEI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR PONIES September 2016 RESULTS FEI European Pony Team Dressage Championship: GOLD – Germany 222.666: Massimiliano 3 (Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel) 75.051, Danilo 80 (Tabea Schroer) 74.538, NK Cyrill (Inga Katharina Schuster) 73.077, Cinderella M WE (Eileen Henglein) 71.205. SILVER – Denmark 217.513: Vegelins Goya (Louise Christensen) 73.615, Der Harlekin B (Sara Aagaard Hyrm) 72.436, Lilo L (Kristian Würtz Green) 71.462, Gambys Hanneken WE (Victoria Bonefeld Dahl) 70.231. BRONZE – Holland 216.077: Wounderful Girl (Daphne Van Peperstraten) 73.128, Elin’s Noncisdador (Zoe Kuintjes) 72.590, Charina Du Bois (Jitske Prosman) 70.487. FEI European Pony Individual Dressage Championship: GOLD – Germany: Massimiliano (Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel) 76.244. SILVER – NK Cyrill (Inga Katharina Schuster) 75.293. BRONZE – Vegelins Goya (Louise Christensen) 74.073.

Eventing Team winners Team Winners from Germany, Chef d’equipe Fritz Lutter, Calvin Böckmann, Libussa Lübbeke, Johanna Schulze Thier, Anna Lena Schaaf.

the first qualification of the individual and team competition Thursday, with Norway’s Sanne Sørlie putting herself and her pony Oldrock Megan into the lead after a fast clear round, with 27 rider and pony combinations cleared the course faultlessly. On Friday’s team competition it was the Italian team who claimed gold on a score of 12, with one rider, Priscilla Pigozzi Garofalo and Poetic Justice Cassio, jumping three clear rounds. Silver was given to the team from Sweden and bronze went to Great Britain. These two teams had the same score of 20 penalties in total after both rounds resulting in a jump off. Unfortunately, Great Britain’s Jack Whitaker ended up with 4 penalties and Hallie Lunn had 8 penalties which dropped them below Sweden who had three great clear rounds with riders Elsa Johansson, Michelle Cranning Hillgren, Ingemar Hammerström and Tilda Eldh. In Sunday’s final of individual show jumping it was Great Britain’s Jack Whitaker with the pony Elando Van De Roshoeve ending with 4 penalties who claimed the gold. Leader from first round Rowen Can De Mheen with Quaprice d’Astre had a refusal at fence 4, and received silver with 5 penalties. As third was the German Antonia Ercken with Crazy Hardbreaker SP WE who won bronze with 7 penalties after the day’s two rounds. 

FEI European Pony Freestyle Championship: GOLD – Germany: Massimiliano 3 (Lucie-Anouk Baumgürtel) 81.125. SILVER – Germany: Danilo 80 (Tabea Schroer) 77.450. BRONZE – Denmark: Vegelins Goya (Louise Christensen) 76.175. FEI European Pony Team Jumping Championship: GOLD – Italy 12 fault: Donja (Camilla Mainardi) 7/11/4, Manisha 2 (Alessandro Orlandi) 0/4/4, Rock Dee Jay (Sofia Manzetti) 4/0/0, Poetic Justice Cassio (Priscilla Pigozzi Garofalo 0/0/0. SILVER – Sweden 20 faults: Ballygawleys Little Ferro (Elsa Johansson) 0/12/8/0, Wischin Chin M (Michelle Cranning Hillgren) 0/0/48/0, Ocean Des AS (Ingemar Hammarström) 0/4/0/0, Miclas Aristocrat (Tilda Eldh) 8/4/4/0. BRONZE – Great Britain 20 faults: Sultan Du Bary (Allana Clutterbuck) 0/4/4/0, Elando Van De Roshoeve (Jack Whitaker) 0/4/0/4, Javas Alun (Hallie Lunn) 4/0/48/8 FEI European Pony Individual Jumping Championship: GOLD – Great Britain: Elando Van De Roshoeve (Jack Whitaker) 4 penalties. SILVER – Holland: Quaprice d’Astree (Rowen Van De Mheen) 5 penalties. BRONZE – Germany: Crazy Hardbreaker SP WE (Antonia Ercken) 7 penalties. FEI European Pony Eventing Team Championship: GOLD – Germany 135.60: Pearl 98 (Anna Lena Schaaf), Askaban B (Calvin Böckmann), Nadeem 2 (Libussa Lübbeke), Mondeo 34 (Johanna Schulze Rhier). SILVER – Great Britain 153.70: Cuffesgrange Little Ric (Saffron Cresswell), Drop the Subjekt (Anya Kolleth), Alfie (Eloise Carter), Sycamore Lad (Molly Meg Faulkner). BRONZE – France 161.90: Podeenagh Aluinn (Melissa Prevost), Olympe des Bois (Alban Moulliere), Risketou Maneti (Camilla Lucas), Tohing Song d’Aven (Quetin Gonzales). FEI European Pony Eventing Individual Championship: GOLD – Germany: Pearl 98 (Anna Lena Schaaf) 41.40. SILVER – Askaban B (Calvin Böckmann) 43.40. BRONZE – Edition Limitee Dew Drop (Jarno Verwimp) 44.30.

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September 2016

ESSEX HORSE AND PONY PROTECTION SOCIETY

Looking to foster a rescue horse? Essex Sanctuary Seeks Homes for Rehabilitated Rescue Horses and Ponies Basildon-based horse sanctuary, the Essex Horse and Pony Protection Society (EHPPS), has been rehabilitating horses and ponies taken into its care since 1983 on their 55 acre site. The charity has rescued over 1,000 equines, with 14 currently looking for temporary winter or permanent foster homes. We don’t sell horses that come into our care” says Sue Allery from EHPPS. “Instead we focus on their rehabilitation here at the sanctuary, and apart from our permanent residents who, for example, need constant medical support, we look for long-term, experienced and loving foster homes.” Many horses and ponies that are rehabilitated by the sanctuary’s staff and volunteers will be rideable, while some will be suitable as companions. Equestrians looking to foster a rescue horse will go through an extensive process to assess the suitability and match between the fosterer and horse. Fosterers will be responsible for the everyday care and exercise of the horse as part of the sanctuary’s Fostering Agreement, although EHPPS will retain ownership of the horse at all times and a team of Foster Officers will regularly check on the horse and fosterer to ensure that all is going well. “Lulu, for example, is a beautiful 5-year-old Thoroughbred cross mare who came into our care in 2013. We were

EHPPS Lulu, 5-year-old Thoroughbred Cross Mare notified that she was one of three horses found in a field up to her chest in mud in freezing conditions” says Sue. “She has flourished since being with us, and we will be looking to back and school her before looking for a suitable foster home.” Find out more about fostering a horse or pony or how you can help the sanctuary through donating, visiting or supporting events at www.ehpps.org.uk. 

TRIED & TESTED In the Stirrups Product Reviews

A thumbs up for the tasty new flavour from Bizzy Bites

There are plenty of boredom busters on the market. Whether your horse is restless when inside or most owners worst nightmare, on box rest, it’s good to know your options to keep them happy and occupied whilst stabled. This month we tried the BizziBites boredom buster and thought it was great! “I have a 2-year-old filly on box rest and was excited to give this product a try. It went down a treat, literally! Elli really enjoyed it and the added bonus was being able to hang it up using a run of the mill lead rein. We also tried in out in the field with a yearning on restricted grazing due to a pelvis injury and this worked real wonders in keeping her happy in her limited space. All in all I was impressed with the product and it’s uses and will definitely be refilling ours regularly!” Reviewed by Tracey Jordan of Foxcroft Stud l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline

TIM LIPS – LIFE AFTER RIO September 2016 By Tim Lips, Dutch Olympic Eventer

Life after Rio

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have been back a few weeks from my Olympic adventure in Rio and already been rushed off my feet. I took a short time to recover and then immediately picked up the thread of the company and got back to competition! Rio didn’t go initially quite as we had hoped, but we finished in the top six of the team placings so we still succeeded in our goal for the team. After our sport was concluded we wanted to watch some of the other sports but unfortunately it turned out that everything was nearly impossible

to reach! It was a great shame that the logistics were not planned our and our endeavours to support other sportsman such as the hockey team weren’t possible. This is part of the reason we decided to leave earlier than originally planned. We had flexible flights booked so just rearranged and flew home early but not before watching the Nations Cup Dressage which we enjoyed. Once we were back in the Netherlands all riders, grooms and even owners received a certificate and rosette for our sixth place and participation in the Olympic effort. It was very nice and appreciative that the

grooms also shared the spotlight for their hard work!

Time for a little vacation The first week at home was very quiet. Still it was quite nice after the hectic weeks to be relaxed and without pressure involved with the horses. Well I’ve taken the jumpers to Outdoor Brabant to the exercise trail. Then followed a short break to France with the parents of my girlfriend, Emma, to be exact. I tried to think as little as possible about horses during my stay! I really wanted

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September 2016

TIM LIPS – LIFE AFTER RIO

to get away from everything after the huge build-up of the previous months and it was quite successful. We are well settled and back to normal now. That’s a good thing, because the future is already fully planned with clinics and competitions. So I made last weekend at Horse Event demonstrations and I plan to ride in a number of competitions to work up a rhythm for Boekelo. Besides Rio, Boekelo is also important this year - I’m going to start with Brent and maybe Keyflow. Bayro does not need anymore this season, with him I have been working so clearly to one peak moment, he still deserves a little vacation too. He is working under the saddle, but only outside rides and strolling around, no taxing or stressful things. But with Brent, I especially want a good cross-country round in Boekelo, so that’s the next target! ■ l editor@inthestirrups.com l www.inthestirrups.com l www.facebook.com/inthestirrupsonline