ONTENTS
SPORT 6
Lindsey Holleger Fenway fields a junior's dreams
by Lindsey Holleger and Erin Brinkman
16
News
20
IN the Spotlight
26
Dressage 4 Kids
by Elizabeth Molloy
40
FoxCroft Farm
FEATURED FARM 44
Full Moon Farm - World Class Paso Fino Horses
by Maurquis Davis
EQUINE THERAPY 60
Flying Changes
68
Gloria Hester - Hanna Somatics
Arts & Entertainment 74 86
Jill Johnson: Georgia Horse Painter Getting the Ball Rolling Introduction to Equine Soccer
by Laurie Wilson
92
Riding Iceland
Atlanta Horse Connections' goal is to share the inside stories of Georgia based equestrians. You will see narratives from various disciplines, breeds, equine based businesses, human and horse fashions and all things equestrian! Our goal is to unite the local equine community and build relationships so that we can work together not only to promote our industry but to jointly share our passion that we are all so proud of – our horses. We want to hear your ideas and understand what is important to you in the local equestrian world. Please feel free to write to us via email and give us your input – we value our readers, advertisers and sponsors. We are excited to be a part of the Georgia horse community and look forward to building the Atlanta Horse Connections together. Happy Riding!
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS, ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORTERS! Katya Manjossova katyamanjossova@gmail.com 770-896-3637
Lindsey Hol Photo credi
Junior Rider from Georgia Strikes Gold at North American Championships Lindsey Holleger, a senior and honor student at Brookwood School in Thomasville, Ga., is no stranger to competition or to winning medals. But this year was the culmination of her hard work and training, when she won the Junior Individual Gold Medal in Dressage at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, the premier competition for riders 14-21 years old in North America. Riding her Trakehner gelding Friedensfurst, the horse her mother Dayle Holleger referred to as “the horse of a lifetime for her,” Lindsey won a spot on the U.S. Dressage Federation’s Region 3 team (Ala., Fla., Ga., S.C., and Tenn.), then brought the gold home from the NAJYRC with a stunning dressage performance. The NAJYRC is the only Fédération Equestre Internationale championship held annually on this continent. This July 17-21, young riders and horses from the U.S., Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Islands came together at the Rolex arena in Lexington, Ky. to compete in a variety of equestrian sports. Lindsey competed with Friedensfurst in the Olympic sport of dressage. Immediately after their win at the NAYJRC, the pair went to Maryland for a five-day “Emerging Dressage Athlete Program” clinic. Organized by U.S. Olympic riders, the goal of EDAP is to find and develop talented youth to become the international dressage riders and trainers of the future. Lindsey and Friedersfurst were one pair of only 12 riders
and horses selected to participate in this prestigious clinic, giving them the opportunity to learn from some of the world’s top dressage riders. Friedensfurst, nicknamed “Fenway,” is 11 years old and has been Lindsey’s equine partner for four years. Lindsey said she originally planned to buy a horse that was already competing at the upper levels of dressage. Instead, she found Fenway, just beginning to move up the levels. But, “I liked him instantly and he is so talented,” she explained. “He is very smart and he just has the greatest personality – he loves to make people laugh.” Fenway is one of a breed celebrating 280 years of history. Trakehners are the oldest warmblood breed in the world and have been carefully bred since 1732 for elegant movement, endurance and intelligence. However, Trakehners are not just about the history—they’re about performance engineering. A closed stud book and strict adherence to the original breeding principles from the main stud farm in Trakehnen, East Prussia have slowly brought the breed back from a small number of World War II survivors. Today Trakehners are recognized as both international performance horses and refiners for other warmblood breeds, producing horses such the current world dressage record-holder, Moorland’s Totilas. For more information on the Trakehner horse, visit the American Trakehner Associations Facebook page, or see www.americantrakehner.com.
lleger and her Trakehner horse Friedensfurst during their gold medal dressage performance. it: Allen MacMillan, MacMillan Photography
Read Lindsey’s and Fenway’s story on the next page>>>
Lindsey Holleger and her Trakehner horse Friedensfurst
AHC asked Lindsey Holleger to share her story about her successful journey as a dressage rider and her horse Fenway. Here is the story from Lindsey and her trainer Erin Brinkman who is also the breeder of Friedensfürst aka Fenway.
Fenway fields a junior's dreams The Early Years By Erin Brinkman
Fenway was born around10:30 at night on April 7, 2002, while I was watching the movie Field of Dreams, hence his barn name “Fenway" after Fenway Park. I had already decided to name this colt Friedensfürst (roughly translated, Prince of Peace) prior to his birth. Thanks to the movie's inspiration, I also felt he may become a dream horse some day. He was indeed special at birth with almost perfect conformation and one of the most beautiful necks I have ever seen on a foal. Fenway was sired by my Elite stallion Donaufürst (by Mahagoni, out of Donaufahrt vom Schimmelhof by Pregel). Donaufürst was trained by me though Grand Prix dressage and remains to this day my best and most beloved horse. Unfortunately, he was injured prior to showing Grand Prix
competition. “Don” is the most intelligent horse I have ever met. Little girls still come to visit him and can ride him bareback without a bridle in his field. Fenway is almost the mirror image of his father personality and intelligence, with a very high capacity to understand the human language. Don's offspring usually pick up the verbal commands of “walk”, “trot” and “canter” in one session. Fenway’s dam, Feodamee von Krotenbach, was sired by the German elite stallion Hohenstein, who was the German National Champion and trained through Grand Prix as well.
Friedensfürst
Upon Fenway’s birth I nominatedl him for the American Trakehner Association (ATA) Futurity. In 200S, at age three, he went on to win in-hand in his first season out as a young stallion, receiving an 82 percent in his first competition. Later that year he would be named the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Regional Champion thee-Year-Old Stallion in Hand. He was wonderful to show in hand and was trained with natural horsemanship techniques.
FriedensfĂźrst
A year late, I began his competition under saddle at Training Level. Again In his first competition he scored an 80 percent. In 2007, he won the ATA Dressage Futurity for five-year-olds at Training Level averaging 74 percent. When Fenway was a foal he had unfortunately injured two sesamoid bones. This was the reason I decided to geld him, and later to sell him, unsure if he could meet the serious demands of Grand Prix competition. His soundness and wonderful trainability led me to believe he could accomplish dressage at least through the small tour (PSC/II) competition level.
My Dream Horse By Lindsey Holleger
In the summer of 2009, fate led me to my dream horse Friedensfürst. A few months prior I had reluctantly accepted the fact that I had outgrown my 14-hand pony so I started looking for a horse. During a show in Tampa, Florida my mom Dayle ran into dressage rider and trainer Erin Brinkman who encouraged mom to come and take a look at some of Erin’s horses for sale. The next month, my mom, our friend Julie Whitfield and I drove down to Valhalla Farm (Erin’s family farm in Wellborn, Florida, where her Dressage business is based) with the hopes of finding my next partner. We tried a few horses, but when I saw Fenway, instantly I loved him and I knew that he was the one. After the vet checks and paperwork, we finally brought Fenway home. I remember I could not go five minutes without running out to the barn—I could not believe this beautiful horse was actually there. In 2009, when Fenway was seven, l had trained him through a green Third Level when Lindsey came to try him. Lindsey was only thirteen years old at the time. She was small in stature and had only shown at Training Level with her small pony. It was love at first sight and she convinced her parents that this was the horse for her. I thought this could be a good combination, but I did not foresee the rising stars they would become. The following year this became obvious to me and I told her parents at that time that their daughter was a very gifted young lady and a wonderful student. As her instructor, I found Lindsey learned new concepts quickly and mastered them within one lesson. In three short years Lindsey has finished Fenway’s FEI training through Intermédiaire I. She has earned her USDF bronze and silver medals with Fenway as well. It has been an absolute joy to have breed this wonderful horse, to coach Lindsey and to watch these two excel! Thinking back to his birth and the movie's inspiring motto, it fits Fenway to a tee: “If you build it, they will come!”
Highs and Lows Now everything is supposed to be easy after that, right? Wrong, very wrong. Fenway wouldn't give me anything for free. I had to work hard just to get him on the bit. He also let me know when he was fed up because I would end up on the ground. After I hit the ground twice, I had to rethink my tactics. With Erin’s help, slowly, but surely things improved. During the first real competition year for us in 2010, Fenway and I qualified for the USDF/GAIG (Great American Insurance Group) Regional Championships at First Level in the Junior/Young Rider division. I was super excited, but as the championship show grew near, I became increasingly nervous. Finally, when the time came to enter the ring, my nerves had overtaken me and I could barely breathe, landing us in ninth place with a score of 66 percent. Fenway was wonderful—it was my fault we did not score higher.
After I decided the past was the past, and there was nothing I could do to change it, I turned my negative energy into determination for the next year. Fenway and I worked harder each day looking to improve on each ride. By the end of 2011, our averages At both First and Second Levels were above 70 percent earning us USDF Second Level Junior/Young Rider Champions. ATA First Level Horse-of-the-Year and ATA Second Level Horse-of-the-Year. The 2011 UWE/ GAIG Regional Championships were also a huge success. We won both of our First and Second Level classes with scores of 73 percent and 69 percent, but the moment I found out that I had won, I checked it off my mental "to-do list" and looked ahead for our next goal. During the awards ceremony, I met my future teammate and great friend Mallory Kent and she introduced me to FEI juniors and encouraged me to try out for our Region 3 Team in 2012. I dismissed the idea, certain it was too steep of a goal to reach since Fenway's flying changes weren't 100% clean. But in the following months, Erin told me that I should try out for the Junior Team. It was rare for her to push me. I am usually the one pushing myself too hard and she is the one slowing me down, so hearing this from her was the encouragement I needed. Soon Fenway and I were improving at an even faster pace. For our first show to perform the FEI Junior tests, we entered a CDI (Concours de Dressage International) it Wellington, Florida. Not only was it a CDL but none other then the World Dressage Masters Friedensfürst
top U.S. and international riders. Probably not the best move we have ever made! My nerves were running high especially after seeing Olympians everywhere. Unfortunately, we did not do as well I had hoped, but it was a great experience and it gave me a taste of the atmosphere I would see at hit NAJYRC and beyond. After the CDI, my confidence was shaken but with Erin's help, Fenway and I began to earn our qualifying scores for the NAJYRC. In our daily training I focused on myself and learned the valuable concept of contact and letting go—a huge leap for me. During the qualifying period, we earned an an average score of 68 percent, securing our spot on the USDF Region 3 Junior Team for the NA)YRC! I was absolutely ecstatic and couldn't wait to begin the journey. But with that excitement came nerves, so I spent a month with Erin training at Valhalla perfecting my junior FEI tests. I learned so much there with the other working students. The experience left me with great friends and memories that will last a lifetime. I should pause to mention that thanks to Fenway’s trainability and amazing work ethic, we made faster than normal progress in our dressage. I believe that he has the best mind for the work. He almost never spooks and is a very calm horse, but when he goes into the ring, he has a lot of energy and is ready to go. It is the perfect combination. Plus Fenway’s conformation is built for dressage, making collection easy for him.
Bright Future Ahead After the 2012 NAJYRC, Fenway and I competed in our first Prix St. Georges test and earned a score of 69 percent. We also competed in the Region 3 Championships at Fourth Level and on the FEI Junior Team there and won both of our classes with a 67 percent and a 70 percent. Two weeks later we were privileged to be invited to participate in the elite USEF Young Rider Training Session with National Youth coach Jeremy Steinberg. That weekend I was able to reunite with some of my NAJYRC friends and acquire a great set of skills to use both on and off the horse. After thin event, for the first time, my dream of being an Olympian didn't seem so outrageous and impossible! I love Fenway with all my heart. He is the sweetest horse ever and is more than my best friend. We have an incredible bond that's almost hard to describe. Fenway is extremely smart and can master something new in just a few rides. You can tell he loves what he does and is always excited to learn anything new. He also enjoys performing the Spanish walk. When be is confused about something, he will just start doing it! I am totally sold on Trakehners as a band. They are very reliable and are super smart making them fast learners. Trakehners also have a great minds and are easy to train They love people and enjoy having a partnership with their riders. Without the support of my parents, my trainer Erin, and of course Fenway, we would not be where we are today. He really is my field of dreams.
DRESSAGE
Aug 31-Sept 1 USEF/USDF Labor Day Classic I & II, GIHP, Conyers Sept 1-Oct 31 Kudzu Klinic w/Janet Foy thru Horseshow.com Sept 7-8 Sandra Hotz Fix-A-Test and Scribe Clinic, Shannondale Farm, Milton, GA
Congratulations to Anneliese VogtHarber and her students Vanessa Barnes and Julie Hess riding their borrowed mounts from Beth Billery and Sarah Barnes their success in the USEF Dressage Seat Medals Finals! Great job, all!!
Sept 14-15 L-Program Final Exam - GIHP, Conyers, GA Sept 21 Kudzu Klinic: Sports Performance Enhancement with Cheryl Williams Sept 28-29 Debbie McDonald, Shannondale Farm, Milton, GA Oct 11- 13 Great American Insurance Group/USDF Region 3 #Dressage Championships and Atlanta National Fall Dressage - GIHP, Conyers, GA Nov 1-3 Arthur Kottas Classical and In-Hand Clinic, Shannondale Farm, Milton, GA
2013 Markel/USEF Developing Grand Prix Champion Laura Wharton-Mero (Woodstock, GA) and her own Zandor (Florencio x Nancy BS/Amulet) Photo: Mary Phelps
Congratulations to Laura Wharton-Mero (Woodstock, GA) and her own Zandor (Florencio x Nancy BS/Amulet) for winning the USEF Developing Horse Grand Prix Test Qualifying Class and placing third overall in the Markel/USEF Developing Horse Dressage Grand Prix National Championship 2013 presented by HorseShow.com at Lamplight August 24-25th.
Dear Destre,
photo credit to Jennifer Maki JLM Equine Photography
We are extending our deepest sympathies to you and your family on the loss of your magnificent horse Millenium!
Welcome the newest member of the Chris Erbskorn Dressage Horse family--Gooey! Gooey is a 3-month-old French Bulldog with tons of charisma who even has his own Facebook fan page!
A horse's spirit never ends. It becomes a part of your soul. With heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Rebellienne HVH and trainer Brandi Benedict earned top honors in the 4 year old division of the 2013 USEF/Markel Young Horse Dressage Championships with a final score of 8.76. The Hanoverian mare by Rotspon x EM Whitney/Welser turned heads throughout the week beginning with their memorable winning performance in the preliminary round which was completed in a deluge of rain. The mare was rewarded for her impressive trot and walk gaits scoring 8.8 and 9.5 respectively and was also highly praised for her submission and general impression with scores of 9.0 and 8.8. Rebellienne HVH was bred and owned by High Valley Hanoverians and has been trained using the High Valley Hanoverians Young Horse Training method "Developing Hanoverian Athletes in the Mind & the BodyTM". She was the 2012 USDF Horse of the Year for 3 year old Materiale and achieved her Elite Mare Status in 2013 when she successfully completed her Mare Performance Test and produced a Hanoverian colt by Dancier via embryo transfer. She will be competing in Training Level at the USDF Regional Championships in October. www.HighValleyHanoverians.net
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Caliente 5 year old premium Oldenburg NA mare By Corcovado/ Gemmamaria/ Graf Goetz Owned by Ericka Fairman and Kate O'Grady Bred by Lisa Dunn Trained by Ashley Marascalco of ANM Dressage
Thank you to Alicia Frese Klenk of Alicia Frese Photography & Fine Art for taking these beautiful photos of Calinete and giving us permission to use them in the magazine!
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Caliente won her MPT (Mare Performance Test) for the ISR Oldenburg inspection on August 24th, 2013 in Georgia International Horse Park, with an overall score of 86% the highest MPT score in the US history of Oldenburg NA!
Photo: Alicia Frese Photography & Fine Art
Ashley Marascalco on Caliente
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Ashley Marascalco who is training Caliente had this to say: “Caliente: her name says it all. But there's a catch. She is a spicy mare, which is one reason why I love her so much. She has fire & spark in her spirit, a quality I admire in a horse. She came to me somewhat confused as to how to focus that energy. But through consistent training & appropriate boundaries Cali learned how to channel her energy. Once her and I really bonded she gave herself to me completely & trusts me. In turn I trust her too. We have an understanding of each other now. So with all that in place, she has been such a star. Every day she tries her best for me & the day of inspection was no exception. She knew what she was there to do & she did it. She gave her fan club something to talk about. After all in her mind she was the only reason anyone was there:) She was & is a star. She went from being such a little brat to turning into a true lady. I think she's realized life is much better now!�
Photo: Alicia Frese Photography & Fine Art
2013 Dressage4Kids
Elizabeth Molloy - owner, trainer, coach at Taramia Riding School, Cumming, GA, shares her story taking her her son Nick to 2013 Dressage4Kids, Michigan Festival Once again, preparing for a trip is half the fun and the excitement was building while I did last day errands of picking up the rental car, a few groceries for the drive, and batteries for the camera. I actually had a full days of riding and lessons to do and hoped to hit the road by 12 noon. Okay, 1:00 PM. We always take the scenic Hwy 53 out to get to I-75 which is windy through the North Georgia mountains but fly by it on the way back preferring straight roads after a long drive. First stop Louisville, KY to see our now good friends we met last year at MI D4K, Allison and daughter Madison Deaton. We were a scramble team last year, being sent by US Pony Club, and had only finally met at the actual show. I was so nervous hauling that far last year and Allison had offered her gracious Kentucky hospitality both then and now, putting us up for the night. We ate
The entrance to Hampton Green Farm
nice supper in and simply swapped horse show stories. Madison had tragically lost her horse last year, had bought her new one Stuart who then randomly colicked and is now recovering, putting her on Plan C, a borrowed horse whom she proudly displayed her 1st Place ribbons and High Point award showing First Level under renown judge Janet Foy. This was firing up Nick, who because he trains privately at home vs. a big boarding stable, gets quite competitive when he sees his would be competition. And Yes. I do that on purpose! After two days on the road, setting up base camp at my family’s and a trip down memory lane to my high school with Nick and one of my street gurl buddies, we reached the gates of the lovely Kim & Frederick Boyer’s Hampton Green Farm. We had arrived!
Nick and Raj performing Training Level 2. Photo credit Kevin Lund
This year we opted NOT to bring a horse, saving our hauling $s for US Pony Club Championships instead, and brought prize donations from Liz Pizzo Equine Designs including a nice framed print. Also different this year was for me to observe the behind the scenes as I was determined to bring this event down to Atlanta. I locate the Show Secretary Tent and unloaded my art loot to approving nods and see what I can do to help. Then we settle in to watch Lendon’s EDAP clinic. EDAP is the Emerging Dressage Athlete Program in which students apply for online and has interest grows in an area can come “to an arena near you!” This is a two day clinic so were watching the improved 2nd day’s work, and at all levels. Students had a variety of issues from being slightly timid on their new horse to achieving the cadence of the Passage. Lyn Kendall, the Show Manager was gracious enough to arrange to have owner Jennifer Kaiser bring over her sale horse Friesian for Nick to ride. This meant he was increasing his own handicap by catch riding. Most competitors were on their own horse. This had lots of potential to go really wrong as he didn’t even have an opportunity to ride the day before the show, only day OF the show. PAELLA BEING SLOW COOKED OVER COALS IN THE GROUND. FREDERICK BOYER LOVES TO COOK AND PROVIDED WONDERFUL SPANISH INFLUENCED FOOD. AT LUNCH NICK CORRECTED ME REFERENCING TO WHAT I THOUGH WAS QUICHE AS NO MOM, THAT'S "TORTILLA DE POTATA".
By now the clinics were winding down and this wonderful aroma of Paella being cooked over ground coals promised a delicious dinner. I was meeting with Betsy LaBelle who had helped form our Pony Club Team last year and now was endeavoring to bring D4K down to Area III Regionals in 2014. She applauded my enthusiasm to come to Michigan 2 years in a row now and wanted to put our heads together to bring it to our new locations. We are
sitting a random table, way in the back of the set up, that I would later describe as it had to be worse table on grounds because of the slant (quite literally one side was 12” lower than the other due to the natural grass terrain, we were almost catching our food before it slid off the plate) when suddenly she references a mild mannered young man sitting quietly a chair next to Nick as “Liz and Nick, I’d like you to meet Nicholas Fyffe”, which was the keynote speaker of the evening. I am quick to recover from my
look of embarrassment that I didn’t recognize him and shake his hand. While we had googled him, I am the first to admit I have a hard time keeping up with what’s going in Georgia, let alone the USA , so that would make chasing what the Aussies are up to not quite in my bandwith. But of course, this is why we attend an event like this to jump beyond ourselves to learn from the best! Lendon spoke briefly and then handed things over to Nicholas Fyffe who shared his story of growing up with horses as his Mother and grandfather had race horses. He credits his parents to this day for being the most influential teachers of Horsemanship and work ethic that their lifestyle demonstrated on a daily basis. He spoke fondly of his first pony (Shetland of course) “Tinkerbell” and their vivid memories including the fact he was only allowed to groom for the first year as they were both at the seasoned age of 3 years old each. He was a member of his local Pony Club, competed locally in his youth, and by high school caught the eventing bug. This was fueled by the success of the Australian Olympic team securing Gold at the 1992, 1996 and then the 2000 Sydney Olympics. In 1999, Nicholas became obsessed enough to approach the Olympic Coach Heath Ryan for a working student position which he did and remained there for 3 years. He started and competed young horses, became the stud manager for the Ryan’s breeding program; he competed almost every weekend in either Dressage, S/J or Eventing for the Ryans and got his first exposure to International Competition. He also passed his exams and became accredited Level 1 Coach with the NCAS.
Nicholas Skillen sitting with Nicholas Fyffe
He groomed at the World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain for Heath Ryan who has successful in both 3-Day Eventing and Dressage. While preparing for the Games in Germany for six weeks leading up to them, he came to a firm decision to concentrate on Dressage Only. He went Pro at the age of 20, citing that Ignorance can be Bliss. He was lucky to have Bonnie Holstein take him under his wing, providing him horses which resulted in a World Ranking at the end of 2003 and the title of Youngest Grand Prix Rider at the Austrialian National Championships. From that point on, he traveled a good bit between Germany and Austrailia continuing to build his successful career. His business Nicholas Fyffe Dressage is currently residing in Toronto , Canada during the summer and Wellington, FL in the winter.
Nick taking his test glaring at me for being too close
2013
Dressage4Kids
Next morning, 8 am Test Taking time! Lendon is very serious about her tests, removes cell phones from the tables, spreads the kids out and so no same test takers are at one table, and this year, didn’t even give them back, only allowing them to be looked at. Nick had studied on the 2 day drive up but I was nervous for him. Last year he scored only an 88 which started him off in 4th place where he finished. This year he improved to a 92 which was a great relief securing him 2nd place. Lendon by now had heard of Nick catch riding and was somewhat intrigued, wishing him “Good Luck” sarcastically. As we went to help unload horses and setup the stall, I laughed at the ingenuity of using a snow sleigh to haul the heavy stuff across the grass. I had 20 minutes to quickly throw in a French Braid before the Turn Out Inspection. I simply let Nick know that this year, we weren’t there to win that piece of the competition. “Raj” as they
called Siraj, was a drop dead gorgeous stereotypical Friesian. Stoic, just awaited his commands and reeked of all the wonderful breed characteristics you find in Friesian.
Nick at Turn Out Inspection. After doing Formals for Pony Club, this is a breeze!
Nick put in a very solid steady test except for a minor mistake preparing for the Stretch Circle which has become Nick’s nemisis. Siraj was beautiful and for a minute I started calculating what I could sell in order to purchase him. After the ride, Nicholas Fyffe’s job is to provide feedback for the kids. He complimented Nick on his steady hands and encouraged him to wear white gloves. He also nodded with approval of keeping the horse in his nice 2nd level frame citing that he carried himself well. Shortly thereafter, we were estatic to learn that Nick earned a 69.107%, leading his division, which, owner Jen was Thrilled with.
Off to the Warm Up back in the Indoor, where I reminded Nick to use more outside aides turning as he was a heavier horse than we were used to. Owner Jen nodded approvingly at their progress and then we were up.
Siraj’s owner Jen Kaiser happy with our ride.
Having a break in our day now, It was Nick’s turn for the mandatory volunteer time. The Show staff remembered how much Nick enjoyed last year and assigned him again the Porta Potty Duty, much to his chagrin!
2013
Dressage4Kids snow sleigh to haul the heavy stuff
Nick and Raj performing Training Level 2. Photo credit Kevin Lund
Nicholas Fyffe giving Nick
After lunch, it was time for Equitation, the group class back in the indoor. Nick decided to drop his stirrups one hole longer right before he went in which only lead him to a comment that his leg got drawn up and he should shorten them a hole. While he rode steadily and kept the horse nicely in his frame, he also misheard an instruction that was meant for another rider due to there not being a microphone, leading the entire class the wrong way around the arena. So, Nick came out of this feeling like he did quite poorly. Bummed out, he took care of Raj and offered to help load the trailer trying to shake this off while I went and checked his score. My family was with me, and Uncle Jerry had to almost sit on me while I squirmed insisting I let Nick find out himself that he had actually won the class! Equitation scores don’t quite
Back in Indoor for Equitation Class
follow typical dressage scores and can be high in the 80’s and even 90s. Last year Nick earned an 82, but this year due to the consistency of his ride, he earned an 85%, leading the class by half of a percentage point! His competition was Very Good.
Equitation Score Sheet
This put Nick into the lead of the entire division. Nick also won High Point Training Level !
points. This I took to heart and am still advising it to my students. I look forward to bringing Dressage4Kids down to Atlanta. We will run a one day event to get this off the ground. I am honored to have invited Gwen Poulin as our Keynote Speaker. Mark your calenders for October 19 and 20, 2013 at the Georgia International Horse Park. See you there!
Lendon presenting Nick with High Point Award and poses
After all the formal pictures, Kim Boyer and Lendon encouraged Nick to think about WIT in Florida at the Hampton Green Farms Wellington locating. They offer stall sponsorship and chatted about how people maneuver through school. This experience has created an opportunity to meet top riders and get a glimps of how they earned their success. This carries an underlying theme of Preparedness meets Opportunity, as no rider got to where they are without working really hard. I appreciate the educational piece to this show, as we had Lorraine Stubbs “O� close us out with her brief story of attending the 1972 and 1976 Olympics, and what could any rider down to the Intro kids do to improve their tests. She encouraged everyone to think about their halts as that is 20 points of your test. Concentrating on the straightness and immobility can allow you to keep more of those
Lendon Gray's Dressage4Kids coming to Atlanta October 19 & 20, 2013 at the GIHP (Georgia International Horse Park) DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION FORM
www.taramiaridingschool.com/ Atlanta_Youth_Festival.php All the riders in front of Hampton Green Farm.
GIHP (Georgia International Horse Park)
October 19th - 20th
2013
This unique educationally themed competition consists of 3 elements to include a) one written test, b) one dressage test, and c) one dressage equitation class, each section worth 100 points apiece. Overall highest score wins! Further, competitors and family are invited to join Lendon Gray and featured speaker Gwen Poulin for dinner. These top athletes will inspire our youth by sharing their journey of what it takes to be a high performance rider, otherwise known as “Preparedness meets Opportunity”. DIVISIONS: Class WT – Walk Trot Division. 2011 USEF Introductory Test B; Riders in this division may not cross enter into another division. Class AA – USEF Training Level. 2011 USEF Training Level, Test 2. Class 11 – USEF First Level. 2011 USEF First Level, Test 2. Class 22 – USEF Second Level. 2011 USEF Second Level, Test 2. Class 33 – FEI Children’s, Pony, Junior and Young Rider – as determined by entries. *ALL TESTS MUST BE RIDDEN FROM MEMORY ~ All Tests Ridden in Standard Arena except Introductory Level. REQUIRED READING LIST/WRITTEN TEST: Age is determined by FEI Rules ALL AGES: Rules from Official Prize List will be on the Written Test. 12 and under: USPC “D” Manual of Horsemanship, 2nd Edition, by Susan Harris Ages 13 & over: 40 Fundamentals of English Riding by Hollie McNeil Ages 13 & over: All About Worms (Photo Guide) by Sonia Davidson Books may be purchased from Amazon.com or Knight Equestrian Books or Pony Club Bookstore TURN OUT INSPECTION: Prior to rider’s first mounted endeavor, riders may present themselves before for inspection of horse, tack & rider where designated. AWARDS: Grand Champion and Reserve Ribbons for Overall Highest Score per Division and place ribbons (Intro, Training, etc.); Ribbons for each Section: Written Test, Equitation Class and Dressage Test separately . Several High Point Awards. Contact Liz Molloy (770) 634-4089 or Michelle Smith (678) 234-0551 Email: Atlantayouthdressage@gmail.com Go to www.TaramiaRidingSchool.com for more information and Prize List CLOSING DATE: OCTOBER 4, 2013 – ENTRIES LIMITED – SEND AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE!
Triple A Team & FoxCroft Farm Riding Towards an Equestrian Dream Its every little girl’s dream to ride a pony and some go as far as aspiring to compete locally and nationally at prestigious equestrian events. For the Triple A Team, Abby DuBose, Addy Howe and Aimée Collins however this is no longer a dream; at just 13 years of age, Abby and her pony Lily are 7th in the country in the Medium Pony Hunter Division and Addy with new horse Simon are top 15 in the Junior Hunter Division, United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). Both have their sights firmly set on securing the number 1 position by end this year, with the ultimate goal of competing at the Olympics. With the bar set high, both girls have to out perform their peers (many of whom are their close friends) at each horse show and accumulate maximum points to place them in a leadership position. While wholeheartedly confident in their own abilities, they know they need the support and experience from their trainer Tim Sweat at FoxCroft Farm. With Tim’s track record of training USEF Horse of the Year Champions for 3 consecutive years 2010 – 12, the girls know they are in good hands. “Since moving to FoxCroft Farm in January 2013 and working with Tim, my riding has improved dramatically. I used to be 38th in the country last year, but with Tim’s training I have moved into the 7th position”, say Abby. Addy has achieved the same levels of escalating success, “Before working with Tim I was jumping 2ft at local shows and in less than a year I’m competing nationally
and jumping 3ft. I still can’t believe how quick this has all happened!” The third member of the Triple A Team, Aimée Collins is another young rider at FoxCroft Farm who is making huge traction in the Junior Hunter world. Aimée age 16 rides a young horse named Cinco and is preparing to move into the Junior Hunter Division. With this accolade she hopes to secure an NCAA Athletic Scholarship at University of Kentucky to study Equine Science with a focus on Genetics. Tim Sweat who has been training young and adult riders for more than 30 years, most recently at FoxCroft Farm, Georgia where he is head trainer, believes the girls have the ability to go all the way and realize their dreams. “They are focused, driven and very determined. A lesson is more than just a lesson to these girls - it’s a building block to accomplishing the next objective. We encourage all our riders at the barn to fulfill their dreams and we work hard to help them as much as possible”, says Tim. All girls have a challenging and competitive year ahead attending elite shows like the Devon Horse Show, which is the pinnacle of horse shows. Scoring high in shows like Devon will place each of them in a strong position to secure their dreams whether its NCAA Scholarships or the Olympics – they all have the ability to succeed.
For more information on FoxCroft Farm and its USEF Hunter Jumper and Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) programs, please contact: Tel: 678 893 0909, Email: foxcroftfarm@comcast.net
Breeding for Power with
Legendary Bloodlines! Full Moon Farm is the largest Paso Fino horse farm located in Crawfordville, Georgia with the largest selection of professionally trained horses for sale. They provide riding lessons with every purchase. Their breeding mares are from world class breeders.
by Maurquis Davis Strong bloodlines are a running theme for former Judge and current Workers’ Compensation Attorney Ronald Conner. Present day Ron Conner is a highly respected lawyer for Morgan & Morgan in Atlanta, Georgia, but his love for horses began when he was just a kid. Conner was a kid that had a love for horses running through his veins before he was old enough to even understand it. When Mr. Conner was a child, his parents purchased a pony. Every kid’s dream is to own a pony and Ron was on top of the world. A short time later, the family noticed that the pony began to act mean & aggressive. A mean & aggressive animal is a hazard to any family, especially one with a small child around. So the Conner Family sold the pony & decided to purchase a full grown horse. Once Ronald left home for college, the family decided to take the next step and began to sell horses. Some time passed as Ron graduated college and grew older. Then he decided to treat his children to the same joys he experienced as a youngster. The first horse he purchased was a Welsh Pony and eventually Mr. Conner bought a Tennessee Walker.
Months later, Ronald was watching the National Geographic Channel and saw a TV program on Peru & the Peruvian Paso Horse. Conner was amazed at the amount of information he found through research. He discovered the Peruvian Paso is a rare breed in the United States. Much more rare than the Colombian or Puerto Rican Paso Fino Horses that populate American stables. The horses Conner first purchased were a Colombian breed. He began with 3 horses that were used for trail rides. Eventually his he would venture into horse shows. This gave Conner the experience he needed to pursue a career in Horse Farming. Before he could realize his dream, he would need to do his due diligence. He quickly discovered that the type of horses he purchased for his daughter were good for trail riding but would not perform well in shows. At the time, he could not afford to buy the “perfect” show horse. This is what motivated Ronald to network in the horsing community and meet new people who could help cultivate his knowledge. Mr. Conner met some friends in Florida that owned a horse farm. He recognized how the horses & the farm acted as a central figure of family gatherings. That was all the motivation Conner needed to finally open his own horse farm.
Ronald Conner
www.pasofinohorses-r4u.com
Now that The Full Moon Paso Fino Farm was in existence, there were some adjustments that Ron needed to make. As a horse owner, Ron was able to simply buy horses that fit his personal preference. Yet, once he became the owner of a horse farm, he learned how to recognize how the different personalities & attributes of the horses would fit with the variety of clients. The Paso Fino Horse has a bigger heart proportionate to their body, so they expound more energy than the average horse. Paso’s are generally a very sweet breed. Conner’s philosophy is to allow the horses to grow up together in a herd and once they are about two years of age, he will start training them. The goal is for the horses to learn how to be a herd member. This process allows the horses to grow up in a somewhat independent fashion. Not to worry though, Ronald’s staff takes time to feed, care & administer medicines when needed. Ron also has a soft touch when it comes to the grooming process. The Full Moon Paso Farm determines early in a horse’s life whether it is a good fit to be raised as a show horse or a trail riding horse.
Paso Fino horses are athletes, born with their unique "four beat" gait. The trainer is more of a coach who is giving hints to the horse on how to improve. As we all know, each person is born with physical abilities that may allow them to excel at certain sports. So it is with the paso fino horse. That is why careful breeding is so important to these horses. We have made every effort to produce evenly gaited, smooth riding horses with good power in their rear ends.
Click below to see Insolito de la Luisa, a World Champion Calssic Fino Stallion. http://www.pasofinohorses-r4u.com/id16.html
www.pasofinohorses-r4u.com
www.pasofinohorses-r4u.com
The Full Moon Paso Farm is 90 acres with about 45 horses in the pasture and approximately 25 horses in the barn. The farm is located in Crawfordville, Georgia. Potential clients will find the farm near the Highway I-20 exit #148. Mr. Conner’s farm is in prime location to be reached anywhere in the state of Georgia. It is about 60 miles west of Augusta & 90 miles east of Atlanta. The farm has clients coming from all over including the state of Maine, the Carolinas, Virginia and all states in between. Even if a person isn’t able to travel to the farm, out-of-towners are welcomed to scout Paso Fino horses through an exchange of video clips with The Full Moon Farm or they can actually plan a visit to the farm. Those interested can contact The Full Moon Paso Fino Farm by calling (770) 310-9835 or emailing Mr. Ron Conner (classicfino@gmail.com).
University of Georgia Athens, GA The Eventing Team at UGA welcomes all levels of eventers! We currently have members competing from Beginner Novice to the Advanced level. The team is a close-knit group, consisting of undergraduate, graduate, PhD students and alumni! Members are able to stable their horses at different farms in the area, and are granted team access to numerous training facilities. The location of UGA also proves central to many of the top-level competitions in the Southeast. In addition to the state of the art eventing venues, the team has access to outstanding professionals. In the first year, UGA Eventing held clinics with Imtiaz Anees, Kelly Eaton, Mary Bess Davis, and Kristin Schmolze. While the team does not provide horses for members, the networking and industry knowledge offered from the large group of team members and supporters can assist with finding leases and other riding opportunities. No matter your level of eventing, the UGA Team can offer you the experience you are looking for! After an incredibly successful first year, the team is excited to continue growing and increasing their presence on campus. Being a member of the Eventing Team at UGA gives even more reason to be a proud Georgia Bulldog!
Flying Change Equine Therapy is a nationally recognized 501(c)3 not for profit that uses unforgettable interactive experiences with rescued and retired horses to foster emotional, social, spiritual and psychological growth in people. Flying Change provides Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning with children, adolescents and adults for emotional growth. Our services include: • Individual, Family and Group sessions • Weekend Retreats • Therapeutic Holiday Programs for Youth • Corporate Teambuilding FCET serves members of the community, schools, courts, and agencies that provide residential and outpatient behavioral healthcare. We have two Metro Atlanta locations, in Vinings and South Fulton, as well as a mobile program that takes therapy horses to those we serve. Under the guidance of trained counselors and horse professionals with specialized training in the field of equine assisted mental health, our program provides clients with experiential opportunities to practice healthy life skills in a physically and emotionally safe environment, and the confidence to take those skills back into their family and life. Flying Change Equine Therapy’s approach is strengths-based and solutionfocused. We believe in the dignity and self-determination of our clients and strive to offer them opportunities to discover their own wisdom and lead fulfilling lives. Flying Change is run by Lissa Corcoran. The first part of our series is her story.
I should have been born in a barn. I have loved horses for as long as I can remember, and have spent my life in a lust for everything related to them – riding, training, instruction, management - anything and everything to be near horses. The coldest nights of the year, I can often be found mixing warm bran mashes thick with molasses for my horses and warming their drinking water. When the radio announces a tornado watch anywhere within a five-county radius of the barn, and the entire world is headed up I-75 to get away from the storm, I’m that one crazy Honda Civic headed right for the heart of it. I am that ridiculous. Logic be damned, I have to check on my horses. The evolution that led me to include horses in psychotherapy was a long one, but such a natural progression that in hindsight it is hard not to see that it was happening all along. I came to the field of counseling as a lot of us do, as a child in a very challenging childhood. Alcoholism, addiction, divorce and abuse. Individually and together, our family faced a lot of lessons, and ultimately succeeded in growing through them because of our great love for each other. When I was eight, I was on a Brownies trip when a girl asked me about a well-hidden bruise she spotted while I was changing clothes. I don’t know why I told her where it came from. Other kids who saw a bruise, I’d tell them it was an accident. Because that’s what he told me to say, year after year. I had an accident. Well the accident was that my mother met my stepfather and fell in love with him, and so did I, believing he would be the father I hadn’t had and had always wanted. That Girl Scouts trip changed my life irrevocably when my friend told her mother what she had seen. It was a very dark time for me and my family. My stepfather fled the country and we were left to try to put the pieces together again. I went through foster care and later a hospitalization for depression. It was no one’s fault; predators exist by slipping under the radar and none of us could have known who he really was. In the fullness of time I have come to believe that my experiences were the path that led me to the rich life I have now. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, but for myself, I wouldn’t change it either.
learned how to talk without truly saying anything. I knew therapy-speak well enough to know what my lines were - I could talk the talk, but I wasn’t going anywhere on a real level. I spent my adolescence reading self-help books and going to personal growth seminars - I suspect that I may actually have held the regional title for consecutive number of visits to a therapist’s office for my age group – but I didn’t really get better, my pain just got more sophisticated. By the time I was fourteen, any ability I had to let myself be vulnerable with people was buried so deeply that a therapist couldn’t see it and I couldn’t feel it. Talk therapy couldn’t help me, because I couldn’t talk about what mattered. I told them just enough to make it a story but not enough to make it real, feel what I felt, know what I knew. There was so much that I couldn’t say. There were times when I wanted to say it. Risk it. But my jaw clamped shut like the drawbridge to a fortress; it wouldn’t come out. I just couldn’t go there. There was a place so dark, so frightening, where everything broken in me lived, and I simply had no words for it.
As a condition of my returning home from foster care, my family and I were required to get counseling. Within a year, the therapists told my mother they didn’t expect me to live to be eighteen, as desperate and depressed as I was. I had descended into a barely camouflaged vortex of self-hatred; a feeling of powerlessness and isolation that was its own special room of hell with only my name on the door. Therapy kept me alive but only horses gave me hope. There wasn’t much the therapists could do. They did their best to tie a knot that would never slip, but one way or another I always managed to untie it. In the first year I wouldn’t talk; before long I
In all those years of therapy, my time at the barn was really what kept me going and ultimately healed me – soft muzzles and warm breath, the sound of the horses chewing their hay – those horses could reach me and motivate me in a way that no time in a therapist’s office could. I survived from week to week for the chance to go back to the barn. I literally lived for my time there. Horses taught me so much. I learned assertiveness. Communication. Teamwork. Responsibility. Empathy. Nurturance. How to listen to my gut. When to push myself through my anxiety and when to heed it. How to take safe risks. Unconditional love. I learned that a connection with someone bigger and more powerful didn’t have to hurt. Horses taught me that if I could learn from hard knocks, I could learn from soft touches. I have a family who loved me with everything they had, and we all did everything we could with what we knew at the time. I was raised by these people I love and respect so much – and by a small herd of surprisingly wise horses. 39
In 1996, I founded Flying Change as I was transitioning out of my work as a traditional riding instructor and trainer. More and more I attracted clients who were really learning life lessons that were less about how they rode than how they lived and who they were. I began by trying to incorporate activities in their lessons that they could apply at home. We talked less about their success at shows and more about their relationship with their horse. Less about control, more about partnership. Less about equitation, more about balance. Less about form, more about content. Out of this evolved a thriving program which soon included equine assisted psychotherapy and equine experiential learning. Over the years what started out as an experiment with personal growth grew into a practice where children, adults, families and even corporations were introduced to themselves on a deeper level and discovered tools to live fuller, healthier, more meaningful lives.
Flying Change has been such a rich experience. We have been blessed to be a safe haven for people who are learning and healing. Every year our program grows and thrives, evolving as a result of the people who come through our program and make it their own. The clients, the horses – I have loved being part of their lives. I believe that our lives are a series of lessons designed to guide us to the exceptional gift that we each have to give. Through Flying Change, I have been amazed and gratified to see kids who have given up and shut down begin to unfurl their closed hearts and let love in again, because it came from a horse. I was one of those kids once. I have been so blessed and fulfilled by this work, and I hope that if you ever come to the barn and meet our horses, that you will benefit from it as much as I have.
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For more information about Flying Change Therapy Please visit www.flyingchange.org Please mark your calendars for our Trick or Trail Ride and Costume Contest event on October 26th at UCF Stables in Canton, GA. Please join our campaign to "Make a Change for Flying Change." Just save your coins and bring them to the event to help pay for the care of our therapy horses. 40
Thanks to Gloria! My dog can walk again! By Katya Manjossova, Powder Springs, GA Two years ago my black Labrador retriever mix Jasmine, started showing the symptoms of discomfort in her rare end. First I thought it was a part of an old injury that was causing her to walk funny but as it progressed and grew worse, I had to take her the vet. Jasmine was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. There are a few things you can do to help a dog to be pain free including a surgery but the results are not always guaranteed. We got some medications for Jasmine but they did not help much. The disease progressed to the point that Jasmine was not be able to walk on her own without dragging her back legs. She was rarely up. She spent most of the time sleeping in her favorite chair. I started considering my options, doing research and trying to figure out how to help Jasmine. Part of my research was learning about Hanna Somatics. We have featured Gloria Hester Yoga in a previous issue of Atlanta Horse Connections and I decided to ask Gloria for help. We spoke on the phone and I tried to explain to her Jasmine’s condition. Little words were needed for Gloria to step in offering her help and explaining that the techniques she is using are very simple but very effective. She explained in a very simple way that Hanna Somatics is a system of sensory-motor exercises developed to eliminate chronic, non-malignant musculo-skeletal and nerve pain, to improve movement, and to reverse certain effects of aging upon movement and physical comfort. So we set up a Skype meeting so Gloria could show me some Somatic Movements for Jasmine and we would practice them together. Unfortunately the video on Skype
did not perform well so Gloria directed me with her voice. The movements she described for Jaz were indeed very simple and used without the force. After the first several moves we did with Jasmine, I noticed that she really liked it, she did not resist at all. After about 45 minutes of working with one side, we decided that we should schedule another meeting for work on the other side of my dog. After the first session, I noticed an absolutely amazing change in Jasmine, besides her being extremely happy (I evaluate her happiness by her hyper activity). She got of her chair and started to walk with very little wobble. After the second session with Gloria my dog went back to normal self and did not show any signs of pain while walking. She now is an active dog again. She goes for her walks regularly and runs around with her friend Mishka.
I am truly amazed at this technique. It really works! And Jasmine is living proof of it. Gloria said that it not only works for dogs or horses but also for humans. I am really excited to share this information knowing that so many animals need this help. If you have an animal that is showing some discomfort in its movement please contact Gloria. She can help your animal to be pain free. She also said that this technique could be used to increase performance in sport horses and help rehabilitate injuries. I have seen first hand how it can benefit so many people and animals. fFor more information, please contact Gloria Hester : gloriahester@gmail.com Here is a video of Gloria explaining how Hanna Somatic works. Take a look.
Equine Hanna Somatics Equine Somatics is a hands-on method of assisting the horse in recognizing any forgotten patterns of movement that were previously accessible to him. We are literally re-educating his nervous system. The bones can only go where the muscles put them and the muscles do not work of their own accord. It is the nervous system that controls the muscles. Equine Somatics is an adaptation of Hanna Somatics and was developed by Eleanor Criswell Hanna, EdD. Horses as well as humans, over time, develop chronically contracted muscles ("sensory motor amnesia") as an adaptive process to common stressors such as flight, fright, pain, compensations
Photo courtesy of Stephen Pyle
for injuries and repetetive use. This results in unconscious patterns of holding in the musculature. We are asking the horse to sense this unconscious holding pattern and release it. It is very effective and is a lot of fun to work with a horse in this way. Some of the benefits are a more confident, athletic, happy horse, resulting in a closer connection between horse and human. EHS offers pain relief from common conditions associated with aging. The work is very subtle and requires mindfulness. It is my great privilege to bring this work to both horse and human.
by Gloria Hester What if there was a natural way to help your horse to overcome chronic injuries, pain or misalignments? Suppose there was a gentle set of principles that you could utilize to help your horse regain his natural freedom of movement. Imagine that you could create a better, more trusting relationship with your horse through non-verbal communication. These possibilities exist, all within the sensory-motor relearning program known as Equine Hanna Somatics. Hanna Somatics was originally developed in the late1980’s for humans by Thomas Hanna, the founder of the field of Somatics, and later adapted for horses by his wife, Eleanor Criswell Hanna. Somatics works by connecting the horse’s mind and body to re-awaken his natural ability to self-correct. The work is beneficial for all horses, regardless of age and conditioning. Soma is the Latin word for body. When Somatic Educators use the term, it implies more than that: we believe that the body is intel- ligent and capable of self-regulating. Indeed, both horses and humans are born with an innate ability to self-correct through
movement. Yet we lose this ability due to injury or to movements that are made repeatedly and habitually. Often, the result is a body or “soma” that is contracted into what appears to be an aged posture – even if the person or horse isn’t that old. Posture is not from aging per se, but is from unconscious reflexive responses to life’s experiences, hence the need for somatic re-education. Adaptive Tension Patterns are Common to All Vertebrate Animals. The Results are Pain, Misalignments and Loss of Functional Movement. Every vertebrate animal - that is, every animal with a spine - demonstrates the same patterns of holding in response to stress or trauma. Human, horse, dog, cat - anytime we feel apprehension for any reason, we unconsciously contract the abdominal and other muscles. This pattern will remain held in the unconscious and is cumulative with each additional experience. Weblink to Audio Interview: www.gloriahesteryoga.com/ gloria-hester.wav
Gloria Hester working somatically, in partnership with an equine retreat participant. Photo courtesy of Kathy Edds Over time this becomes a pattern of dysfunction, creating a vicious cycle: the body’s response reinforces the feelings of fear and apprehension, feeding back to the brain which then responds by shorten- ing the muscles even more. Shortened abdominal muscles result in an inability to breathe deeply, which in turn leads to additional carbon dioxide being stored in the bloodstream, irritating the nervous system.
In horses, shortened abdominal muscles leave the animal with a limited, altered movement pattern where he is unable to stride properly and may drag his feet rather than lift them. He will tend to stand short, close-in together and camped under. This holding pattern is just one of many that horses demonstrate in response to stress. So we see that emotional responses are held in the soft tissue. In addition, any movement that we make repetitively will leave us contracted and “on the ready� to make that movement at all times.
Performance horses, for example, are asked to repeat certain movement patterns habitually. Over time, these movements may be- come more difficult for the horse, even totally inaccessible. An example would be a horse who has lost his ability to disengage the hind- quarters and cross over on the hind. Falls or previous injuries are another common cause of misalignments. This can leave a horse holding chronic tension patterns from the fall or from adaptation to the original injury. This often results in pain. If your horse habitually holds his head or tail to one side, or has a short stride on one side, then you can be sure that the muscles on that side of his body are held tight by the unconscious as he tries to protect the injury. Fortunately, all of these habitual responses can be addressed through somatics. Through visual assessment, gentle movement and
touch, and by utilizing the horse’s sensory-motor feedback, well-organized patterns of movement are re-established. The result: a calm, relaxed and confident horse. And no wonder: a healthy animal who is able to move well has nothing to fear. An Equine Somatic Educator works with the horse, rather than doing something to the horse. In somatic work, we invite the horse to use his brain to make his own self-corrections rather than forcing changes externally. When we ask a horse to contract a muscle and to use good control to slowly release and lengthen that muscle, the control is taken from the brain stem and cerebellum and is given back to the sensory-motor cortex. In this way we address and reverse the chronic cause of the problem rather than temporarily alleviating the symptoms.
We do not stretch the horse. Instead, we ask the horse to voluntarily contract first and then sense the new elongation and relief that comes from releasing the dysfunctional holding pattern. This allows the horse to re-set the resting tonus of his muscles. If we, or a horse, anticipate pain for any reason, then we will be guarded in our movements. So we want to let the horse know that he will not have to guard. In this way the horse is given the ability to re-learn. Rapport and collaboration between hu-man and horse are key to the success of somatics. To help humans prepare themselves to work with horses somatically, I utilize a combination of Therapeutic Yoga principles and Somatic principles. I find that this combination of modalities develops an openness and curiosity that translates from one soma to another without an agenda being present in either species. This is paramount to successful somatic rapport. We don’t exert our will over horses; instead we help them find their own way through their sensory experience. A somatic educator’s role, for both species, is to re-educate the nervous system to enable the individual to self-correct and to release chronic holding patterns in the musculature. Since this work has been adapted from the tradition of Thomas Hanna’s Somatic work, the brain and the body begin to have a different kind of communication with one another. This work involves alpha gamma motorneuron co-activation in the central nervous system to
allow the voluntary portions of the brain to reset what the involuntary portions of the brain have been controlling up to this point. Somatic principles are the only principles I know of at this time that will interrupt the messages being sent from the brain and back to the brain to interrupt the patterns. Energy work and massage are great, and very relaxing, but they do not necessarily make a permanent change for the horse’s nervous system the way somatic work does. Once control of movement is restored to the sensory motor cortex, then movement will be graceful and fluid again, and your horse’s natural ability, agility and expressiveness will be fully realized.
Try This: To begin to introduce your horse to Somatic movement, slowly lift the leg as if you were going to clean the hoof. And then encourage your horse to very slowly and smoothly place the foot back down. Repeat this movement with the same limb for a total of three times. Take your time. Then do the same with each additional limb. Give your horse an opportunity to rest between each movement, without any distractions. This simple movement will help to release many of the major muscle groups in your horse.
About Gloria Hester “Now this is a woman who is helping to change the world. In a big way.” ~ Sydney Compton Gloria Hester is the founder and director of the Yogic Wisdom for Horse and Human Training Institute. As a Certified Equine Hanna Somatic Educator and Yoga Teacher Trainer, Gloria teaches methods that re-educate a horse's nervous system which releases contracted muscles and habituated movement patterns, resulting in a more confident, relaxed, happy and athletic horse. Gloria’s equine clients have better endurance, performance and improved coordination. The same holds true for her integrated riders. When a pelvic and low back injury took her away from horses, Gloria sought out Yoga for healing. Eventually Yoga brought her back full circle to horses by introducing her to the Equine Somatic work of Eleanor Criswell Hanna.
Gloria’s "Yogic Wisdom for Horse and Human" programs teach tools and techniques to release the residual effects of injury and provide owners with the tools to work with their own bodies as well as their horses, applying the same neuroscience principles. Having grown up in a multidisciplinary horse family where horses were a part of her everyday life, Gloria is passionate about connecting horses and humans in a way that benefits both.
Gloria’s work has been published in Natural Horse Magazine and has been the subject of numerous radio, TV and magazine interviews. She currently travels to hold retreats, clinics and teacher trainings internationally.
WWW.GLORIAHESTERYOGA.COM
Weblink to Audio Interview: www.gloriahesteryoga.com/gloria- hester.wav
Gloria Hester, (left) working with a pair of retreat participants.
Photo courtesy of Kathy Edds
CALLED BY BEAUTY AND THE DIVINE In tro du cin g E qu i n e Ar ti s t Ji l l Jo h ns on
Jill is a Georgia horse painter dedicated to excellence in equine art. Horses have captivated her imagination for as long as she can remember and she celebrates their majesty in every piece she creates—crafting the beauty and power of the horse in her portraits, and inspiring wonder in art appreciators and horse lovers alike. Jill Johnson remembers her grandmother telling her stories about the racehorses—trotters, she and her grandfather bred, raised and ultimately raced. She would hang onto every word of her grandmother’s stories, and would try to imagine what it would feel like to climb onto the back of a beautiful steed and gallop away; hooves pounding, mane and tail flying as she felt the power of the animal and the press of the wind that they raced against. Jill’s imaginings became the inspiration for her art, and those magical horses, her subjects of choice. Jill is an accomplished equine artist driven by her passion for self-expression and her love of horses. She has developed an exquisite style all her own, emotive portraiture, that blends pure beauty and realism in her work. Strong lines define Jill’s portraits in a variety of media including charcoal and graphite pencils, pastels, acrylics and oil paints. In each of Jill’s works you will see
certain, special characteristics of the individual subject are magnified, giving them a surreal quality. This magnification is how she brings her subjects to life, harnessing the beauty and the power of the animal, and inspiring awe in the viewer. Jill’s horses have won awards in several competitions, but more importantly, they live in her heart and mind, where many years ago as a child, she fell in love.
Into the Wind is a portrait of Penny Austin's thoroughbred filly - "Third time's a charm". Charm's story is so lovely, I was told it after I did the art. She is galloping into the wind in my picture but in life she will never be able to carry a rider at a gallop, she suffered a hip injury as a baby. The first two parties that bought her at auction returned her and then Penny came along and bought her, hence, her name - "Third time's a charm" - Charm for short. Penny discovered her injury shortly after starting Charm's training and now this beautiful girl will have a living owner who expects nothing more from her than to observe her galloping in a pasture. Penny cried when she saw the art and wrote a lively poem about it.
Into the Wind I fly without wings Embracing the wind My hooves beneath me Send echoing thunder Into the earth beneath me Racing into tomorrows Unknown to me I go forward Forward is the only direction The wind and I know. — Penny Austin
Penny Austin founded and chairs a 501c corp called OHAAT - One horse at a time. They help horse owners in need, and network to place horses.
“My love affair with horses started in childhood and since then, I have always loved bringing them to life in my art. In my opinion, horses possess an unequaled beauty and majesty, making them gorgeously rich subject matter. Over the years, I have discovered that every breed of horse has a story and specific characteristics uniquely their own. Therefore, to me, no one breed is more beautiful or intriguing than the next. I choose my subjects based on personal relationships I form with images or live horses that move me to tell their stories in portraiture. My goal is to capture a moment, feeling or quality in my pieces that expresses the power, spirit and physical presence of the animal. I craft each portrait by wholly immersing myself in the creation process, spending as much time as is needed and carefully selecting materials, so that the subject will come to life in the finished product. Ultimately, I consider my art emotive portraiture where the essence of equine movement transforms into heartfelt beauty that people will experience when they view my work. God is my inspiration and my faith is what inspires me to create. I believe that the gift of art is a special blessing that allows me to use my creative gifts to the fullest. I hope that you enjoy my art as much as I enjoy creating it.” Jill Johnson Job 39:19-25 Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane? Do you make it leap like a locust, striking terror with its proud snorting? It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength, and charges into the fray. It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; it does not shy away from the sword. The quiver rattles against its side, along with the flashing spear and lance. In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground; it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds. At the blast of the trumpet it snorts, ‘Aha!’ It catches the scent of battle from afar, the shout of commanders and the battle cry.
Azabache Campeon
Arabian Grace
Indomitable
Rising Moon
Storm
Awards and Honors: Honorable Mention: Atlanta Artists Center, Dogwood in Springtime Show - April 2011 2nd Place: The Artist's Magazine, Annual Art Competition - Jan/Feb 2010 Edition 1st Place: Johns Creek Art Center, Spring Show - May 2009 3rd Place: Johns Creek Art Center, Fall Show - Nov 2008 Honorable Mention: A Singular Creation, Art Showdown Contest - Oct 2008 You can contact Jill Johnson via her website @ www.georgiahorsepainter.com Or Join the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/JillJohnsonGeorgiaHorsepainter
Jill’s art is currently on display in ANTHONY GALLERY in Cumming .
5822 North Vickery Street, Cumming GA 30040 Phone: (770) 888-8588 Email: info@anthonygallery.com
Tsunami Red
In a nutshell it is about playing soccer with your horse. Horse soccer plain and simple. Playing horse soccer is a fun and exciting way to spend time with your horse and friends. Horse soccer is a great way to exercise and train your horse. Playing horse soccer will help the horse with speed, balance, agility and become more responsive to its rider, this is also a great way to help a rider learn as well. Horse soccer is great for riders and horses of all levels of experience and the rules of play can be adjusted for experience levels. Horse soccer is a relatively new sport in America.
Photo by: Danielle Ayan
Below are some basic rules‌.friends! Horse soccer is played while mounted on your horse and encouraging your horse to navigate the ball and score by moving the ball through the designated scoring goal. The ball is moved only by the horse. Using their nose, hoofs, knees, and chest, equines propel the ball toward the oppositions goal. Focused riders guide their mounts but cannot make contact with the ball. If you can’t control your horse, you can’t control the ball! It's all about developing lightness, focus, finesse, and impulsion with your partner while having a blast!
Photo by: Danielle Ayan
If you have never played the game, it is critical to introduce you and your horse to the ball properly and safely. To do this, you need to start out on the ground with a new horse and first get them moving the ball by themselves without a mounted rider. This is the safest way and provides the best introduction to the horse. Once the horse "knows" the ball, you can begin progressing through the game and teaching new skills to both horse and rider. Horse soccer is a fun, challenging and entertaining way to use your horsemanship skills and improve the connection between rider and horse.
“As a former division 1 soccer player, and now a natural horse trainer, my two passions meet on the field. I am looking to form a fun and competitive horse soccer league in Georgia and want to build awareness and interest in this fast growing sport.� Let's spread the word to all our horse-loving friends around the state about equine soccer! I know that there are horse owners already playing equine soccer at their own facilities, maybe we can create a Horse Soccer League of Georgia and form own Georgia Team to keep the fun and competition going strong!!!!
Lets Keep The Ball Rolling! For more information or to schedule a clinic at your barn, please contact Laurie Wilson via cornerw@bellsouth.net or by phone 404-518-4844
About Laurie: "My name is Laurie Wilson. I was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga and have been riding horses ever since I could sit up straight. As a kid I use to pole bend and barrel race and loved to trail ride. My father was my greatest inspiration. Later in life I had some challenging horses that led me down the natural horse path. I became a high level Parelli student and my difficult horses became my greatest teachers. About 11 years ago I started training and starting horses. Along the way I developed lots of different horse passions, including dressage, trick training, obstacle challenges and horse soccer. I also fell madly in love with a mule named Toby Jack that I bought and started 2 years ago. He is now 5 years old and we are competing in obstacle challenges and love chasing cows! I continue to push myself in the pursuit of higher horsemanship. I am adding garrocha pole riding to my list of goals for this year. My top student Joann McBride and I work together to put on clinics and workshops targeted to the needs of horse folks. Together we put on several clinics and workshops a year targeted to the needs of horse folks from every age and discipline. We plan to launch at least 2 horse soccer tournaments in 2013 and hope to eventually have enough folks to form a competitive league. My company is "Natural Leadership" Horsemanship and you can reach me at 404-518-4844 or at www.naturalleadership.biz
Laurie Wilson and Champ
Photo by: JLM Equine Photography
Riding Iceland is a young company, organizing multiday trail rides into the heart of the Icelandic highlands and fjords. We are aiming to take you out of every day's life and bring you into intimate touch with nature and lead you to cross your personal boundaries. Sigurรฐur I Bjรถrnsson aka Siggi founded Riding Iceland in the year 2010, turning the long held dream into reality to invite horse friends from all over the world to follow the old Icelandic tradition of trail riding, thus preserving a long grown, important cultural heritage. In 2013, two new tour operators joined the company, so that we are now happy to be able to offer tours both in the north and south of Iceland and the westfjords in 2014. All Riding Iceland tours are designed to
follow the ancient riding trails that have served country ever since the first settlement of Icela guided by the operators themselves, welcoming the closely knitted fellowship of horse friends in our tour operators grew up with these ancient Icelandic horse and the respect and admiration their country. The horses that will take part in carefully selected and specially trained for the p They are in good spirit and have the necessary s safely through the wilderness.
people to travel across the and and are planned and g their guests to be part of n their country. All three of t customs, the love for the n for the vast wilderness of this adventure have been purpose of a highland tour. stamina to take their riders
But how does a typical Riding Iceland day look like? Depending on the selected tour and the landscape, we come across perfect riding tracks that allow our riders to enjoy their horse tÜlting at full speed – a cheering and overwhelming feeling on its own - and ride through the most astonishing panoramas that the country has to offer. A day of utter solitude in the wilderness and long hours in the saddle, usually ends at one of the remote mountain huts in the Icelandic highlands. Every one of these cottages has its own story, being built or even inhabited by elves or the ghosts of old heroes. At some places there are natural hot water pools, an ideal place to warm up again, relax stiff muscles and listen to the stories about the local ghosts, elves and outlaws. On the dinner table, you will find fresh local food that has been prepared with a passion for natural ingredients. You will eat salmon from the rivers you crossed and lamb that has been roaming free in the heath land areas we have been riding through. With all dishes, we serve fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms. If we were lucky on the hunt for wild blueberries during the day we might also prepare a delicious blueberry skyr cake for dessert.
Melanie Cary writes: It is hard to find the words to describe the most amazing week of my life. Not knowing exactly what to expect, we drove with nervous anticipation from the airport to the farmhouse in Kjóastaðir where we started the tour, everyone trying to imagine the adventure that lay in front of us. We were greeted by Siggi and the rest of the Riding Iceland Team and by the time we finished our welcome dinner that night everyone was bonded, donning new Icelandic sweaters and “chomping at the bit” to go. The days were thrilling and so exhilarating! Riding Icelandic horses is the absolute pinnacle of horse riding. The horses are the perfect blend of beauty and strength and their unique gait, tölt, allows you to ride forever! I think before the tour it was hard for people to imagine flying through the countryside for hours on end, but these horses are extraordinary. Everyone quickly found their favorites and left wanting to take them home. Our tour had us riding around the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain range, the views and landscapes were spectacular; glaciers, mountains, waterfalls and canyons, each one more breathtaking than the next. As we rode through fields filled with wildflowers, you could see snow on the top of the distant mountains, it was just magnificent. Herding the horses was quite fun and eventful, there were always a few trying to escape, but mostly it was remarkable watching them quickly fall into order. We would ride for a few hours and then stop at one of these scenic areas and switch horses or have a picnic lunch, sharing stories of our journey so far.
The nights had its own enchantment. Siggi turned the most basic accommodations into a 5 star hotel with amazing food and entertainment. You would think that for being in a hut with no electricity and only a Bunsen burner, that the food would be just enough for sustenance; but the meals were truly fantastic. We ate all authentic Icelandic meals; like lamb, salmon, lobster, puffin and of course we all had to try the rotten shark. After dinner, we would take out the song books, a collection of classics that everyone knows. Siggi and his family are really great musicians and good or bad we sung our hearts out to favorites like the Beatles as they played guitar. They also would sing some traditional Icelandic folk songs which was like being serenaded by the best a cappella choir ever. The unexpected bonus from this tour was the wonderful friendships that were made. It is amazing how close you become to each other after sharing a week like this. This was so much more than a horse tour; Siggi has made this an experience of a lifetime. Now I am back in the States, missing the sheer simplicity and serenity of each day, counting down until next summer’s tour.
It is almost impossible to participate in a Riding Iceland tour without knitting very close and lasting friendships both with men and horses. Together we will face the different challenges of the day and together we will solve them. In order to safely cross rocky lava fields, conquer raging rivers and treacherous swamps, it is crucial to build an unbreakable trust in your horse. It is also an incomparable experience to enjoy the mutual support among your fellow riders while taking care of the herd of lose running horses that is part of every Riding Iceland tour. According to the old traditions, there is a custom of feeding the horses, cooking and singing together at night which is a big part of the magic in creating strong fellowship and making friends for life. This way you will quickly become a part of the country, the culture and experience the surprisingly powerful energy of trust and collaboration. Our tour guides have made it their personal objective to bring you as close as possible to the Icelandic nature and cultural heritage. Both Hreinn Ăžorkelsson (from the Westfjords) and Siggi BjĂśrnsson (from the South of Iceland) share a deep interest in the Icelandic Sagas and are known to be great storytellers. Therefore in 2014, we will offer some tours that include trails leading to the famous scenes of two of the most important Sagas of 13th century Iceland. For those who are looking for a journey that brings them closer to nature and themselves, we'll offer a combined Yoga and Riding tour, a spirit cleaning natural experience while leaving all daily routines far behind and returning from this country with memories that last a lifetime. If you are curious about us or interested in becoming part of the Riding Iceland fellowship, please visit our homepage www.riding-iceland.com or contact Lisa Loewenberg phone: 561-775-9220 or lisa@loewenberg.net When booking online let Siggi know Lisa has sent you to his site so he knows how to book your tours and give you special treatment. Sam Kolton, A 3 time tour goer Shares, Can you imagine the unknown, can you vision endless vistas on a fast moving spook free gaited horse herding an addition eighty horses into an endless panorama. You are 100 miles from anywhere and in the epicenter of the land known for crystal clear waterfalls, glaciers framing your horizon and the sky will not darken to night for the next three months. That is Iceland the way few people will experience and it is your trip, your adventure when you are riding Iceland with Siggi at www. Riding-Iceland.com
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