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CONTENTS
6 HUNTER • JUMPER Spring Challenge Wrap up Classic Shows Ticket to Ride
20 BREEDING Young Horse Show
24 EVENTING UGA Eventing Team Libby Head At Rolex CHC International
38 GDCTA Equitation Schooling Show Letterman Jacket Program
40 WELLNESS Chastain Horse Park Shooting For The Stars
48 ART Free Rein Designs Susan Easton Burns Ulla Strickland
54 PRODUCT ALERT Ride Alert WOW Saddles
A SPECIAL THANKS GOES TO:
Penelope Morse Teresa Snyder Erin Wheeler
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
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2014 ATLANTA SPRING CHALLENGE WRAP UP The 2014 Atlanta Spring Challenge Horse show came to a close this past Sunday. The event in its 11th year had its biggest turnout to date. The show again took place at the famed Georgia International Horse Park May 14th-18th home of the equestrian portion of the 1996 Olympic Games. JP Godard and his Equus Events team handled the managing duties. Gold sponsors of this year’s event included Fenwick Equestrian, Dietrich and Company Equine Insurance, The Tack Room, Reflections Farm, and DFG Stables. The Tack Room of Camden, SC presented this year’s daily continental breakfast throughout the event. Hospitality has always been a key element at the Atlanta Spring Challenge and this year was no exception. Exhibitors, trainers, and spectators alike were treated to daily ring hospitality, an ice cream party, as well as an exhibitor’s dinner Friday evening sponsored by the 2014 Hospitality Sponsors. This year’s sponsors were; Booth Parker, Black Ankle Farms, The Atlanta Hunt Club, DFG Stables, Finally Farm, Liz Tarumianz, The Meadow Hill Stables, Proof of the Pudding, Reflections Farm, The Tack Room, and The Marketplace. DFG Stables presented this year’s annual Preakness Party on Saturday evening and The Meadow Hill Farm and the Porath Family sponsored a farewell pizza party Sunday afternoon. 1st Round Winner’s Presentation Hunt & Maddie Tosh with Awards Presenter Laura Weichert A&S Photography Lone Star, Betsee Parker & Hunt Tosh A&S Photography
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Feature events at this year’s show included the popular $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby on Friday evening which was sponsored by Reflections Farm. The class took place under the lights in the International Arena along with Exhibitors dinner under the tent. Hunt Tosh and Betsee Parker’s Lone Star took top call in the class topping an impressive field of 23 competitors. The pair is no stranger to the spotlight winning the inaugural USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals in 2010; they also were awarded Horse of the Year honors in 2011. Second place honors in the derby went to Meredith Mateo’s Salto and rider Caroline Willard and the third place rosette went to DSJ Stable, LLC’s Checklist and rider Daniel Geitner. Complete results are as follows:
Jumpers took center stage Saturday evening in the $30,000 Fenwick Equestrian Grand Prix. 24 horse rider combinations tried their luck against a tricky route designed by course designer Phil Devita. Spectators were treated to the show’s annual Preakness Party presented by DFG Stables and Daniel and Cathy Geitner. The crowd cheered Triple Crown hopeful California Chrome to victory while enjoying a Mexican dinner catered by Proof of the Pudding. Finca Horse’s entry of Notaris and rider Nina Fagerstrom came home the victor’s in the class with a time of 53.728 and 1 time fault topping Happy Z and Wilhelm Genn’s fast time of 46.557 with 4 faults, and Lazaro and Jordan Coyne with 8 faults and a time of 46.804. Complete results are as follows:
2014 ATLANTA SPRING CHALLENGE
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Quite Simply & Elizabeth De Golian with presenter Megan Godard A&S Photography Notaris, Finca Horses & Nina Fagerstrom A&S Photography
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Glen Hartigan and Ace of Spies clear an oxer on their way to the win in $25,000 CWD Grand Prix flashpointphotography.com
ATLANTA SPRING CLASSIC CONGRATULATIONS TO $25,000 CWD GRAND PRIX WINNER GLENN HARTIGAN $25,000 CWD Grand Prix Winner Glenn Hartigan of Alpharetta, GA turned in the only fault-free first round in 79.921 seconds, well within the 87 seconds time allowed, during Atlanta Spring Classic at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. "The course was definitely challenging," commented course designer Paul Jewel of Lambertville, New Jersey. Hartigan agreed, "The course was pretty hard. But, its a grand prix and set at the national standard," he said.
Classic Company President, Bob Bell and Awards Coordinator Mary Ruth Taylor, presents the champion honors to Glen Hartigan and Ace of Spies for their win in the $25,000 CWD Grand Prix flashpointphotography.com
Photo by Lindsey Higgins Glenn on Ace of Spies, owned by Phyllis Hines Conyers, GA
Alpharetta, GA based equestrian Glenn Hartigan had a great start to the spring show season when he won the first of two Grand Prixs held in March at the Georgia International Horse Park and placed 3rd in the other. The annual event features top competition and riders from all over the US and Canada. Hartigan and Ace of Spies, an 11 year old KWPN gelding owned by Phyllis Hines of Atlanta, GA, produced the only clear round to win the first of two $25,000 classes set at the USEF National Standard with fence heights of 1.50m. The following week, Ace of Spies (barn name "Reilly") and Hartigan, jumped clean in both the first and the jump-off round to finish in 3rd. "Reilly" is normally seen competing with owner Phyllis Hines in the Amateur Owner divisions and only stepped up to the Grand Prix level with Hartigan last October for the first time. "This was only my 3rd Grand Prix with Reilly and both courses were very big and challenging. I could not be happier with his performance and development. His owner Phyllis is a dear friend and wonderful client and I'm very grateful to her for the opportunity to show him! We're excited about Reilly's future and also fortunate to have a talented string of horses in our barn that we are developing for high level competition." Glenn and Stephanie Hartigan, have operated Eurimports Equestrian, an equestrian training, sales and competition stable, in the Atlanta area for the past four years. The husband and wife team were professionals in Europe before relocating to the US and are licensed by the German Equestrian Federation as professional trainers in their respective disciplines. Glenn specializes in show jumping and Stephanie in dressage and they are proud to offer their expertise to the Georgia equestrian community. More information about Glenn and Stephanie Hartigan can be found on their website: www.eurimports.com
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ATLANTA SUMMER CLASSIC PRIZE LIST The Atlanta Summer Classic prize lists are on-line! The summer winds will be here before you know it and they are heading to the Atlanta Summer Classic, at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia, set to kick off on June 11 for two weeks of AA show jumping. For the jumpers, Week I starts out with the $15,000 Open Jumper Welcome Class, the $5,000 Futures Class and the $35,000 UlcerGard Grand Prix. For the hunters, don't miss the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby, the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and Hunter Classics for every hunter section. Add the $7,100 Open Hunter section, the $6,000 Green Hunter Section and the $6,000 Amateur Hunter Section. There is also a $7,500 Pony Hunter Section. That adds up to a lot of prize money! Add to this schedule, the USHJA's Emerging Athletes Program June 8-12, the Zone 4 Town Hall meeting on June 11 and the Zone 4 "Just Ask" Clinic with renowned horsewomen, trainers and judges Sue Ashe and Susie Schelkopf and Week I looks to be a winner! Alex Granato and his own Gangsta take flight in the Olympic Arena at the 2013 Atlanta Summer Classic flashpointphotography.com
A free riding clinic taught by Pat Bostwick is offered Monday between shows, so make sure to reserve your spot by contacting Janet McCarroll at 228.669.2687 or email her at gcclassic@aol.com. These spots go fast so make sure to reserve your place soon! Week II offers the $2,500 USHJA Hunter Classic, the Emerson Burr Program for Pony Riders, the $15,000 Welcome Class, the $5,000 Futures Class and the Atlanta Cup Equitation Classic for Horses.
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Georgia International Horse Park, home to the 1996 Olympics, will be the backdrop of the Classic Company's two weeks of non-stop show jumping action. "It is so cool to ride in that arena," said Adam Cramer from Equi Sport, LLC, in Pittstown, NJ "I mean, where else can you get that Olympic feel?" he added.
Riders take the written portion of the Emerson Burr Program for Pony Riders
Friday night is the celebrated Outback Steakhouse Charity Dinner and will feature a $10,000 Six Bar Class as the entertainment for the evening! Sunday offers the $35,000 Outback Steakhouse Grand Prix. To wrap up two great weeks of showing, the Classic Company will feature Junior Hunter Frenzy Week II and award the Grand Puba Junior Hunter Championship the final Sunday of the show.
Internationally renowned rider Joe Fargis, winner of the 2012 Lifetime USEF Achievement Award and former Olympic medalist both in 1986 and 1988 with gold and silver medals respectively, a participant in more than 30 FEI Nations Cup Competitions, and United States representative in the 1990 FEI World Equestrian Games in Stockholm, is a long time Classic Company supporter, "The office staff is the one of the most pleasant I have encountered. The whole show committee is very accommodating. It's a great facility and my horses go very well there. There's plenty of space, the courses are good, the footing is good and stabling is really great," he commented. So, whether you are a seasoned veteran or novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Classic Company shows and join them in Atlanta this summer, June 11-22.
Last year's Atlanta Summer Classic Grand Puba Junior Hunter Champion
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13 th Annual Benefit Ticket to Ride Horse Show The Most Fun BENEFIT Horse Shows in Georgia! "Our role here is to support the show so that we can increase the income to benefit the homes for battered women. We feel that giving back to the community we serve is something Realtors should do," stated Senior Vice President and Managing Broker, Robert Aiken after last year’s Ticket to Ride Benefit Horse Show.
Wills Park, Alpharetta, GA July 18, 19 and 20, 2014
Giving back to the community is just what Harry Norman, REALTORS Forysth/Lake Lanier Office did. They donated over $12,000 to Hall County’s Gateway Domestic Violence Center, Forsyth County’s Family Haven, and Dawson and Lumpkin County’s No One Alone Shelter.
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The show in 2013 was one of the largest show’s Black Horse Productions has ever put on. With the help of Harry Norman, the event brought in over 170 horses, $2,000 in money prizes, a silent auction raising $5,000, a 50/50 raffle, and an Exhibitor’s Party featuring Nashville singer/songwriter, Penny Ziska and Jay Memory. “The charity effect we being changes the whole atmosphere. It’s a family even; young kids, old kids, adults and professionals. They understand that their entry fees as exhibitors are going to help a good cause, a cause that we think needs more focus, which are homes for battered women,” stated Aiken. On July 18 through 20, 2014, Harry Norman, REALTORS® Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office will sponsor the 13th Annual Ticket to Ride Benefit Horse Show at Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta, GA. The event will be a Georgia Hunter Jumper Association and Southern Hunter Jumper of Georgia Rated show, meaning that they ride strictly in English tack, and will feature Double-Point Money Classics. Some of the 200 classes in the show were for speed, similar to the Olympics, but in most classes exhibitors were judged for their technique.
Aiken reported that some equestrian athletes take their riding to advanced levels, riding on equestrian teams in high school and college, giving them an opportunity to earn college scholarships or become professional instructors and trainers. This year’s event will be more family friendly and will include a small festival, pet adoption, art display, vendors, 50/50 raffle, concessions, an Exhibitors Party featuring a Nashville artist, and more! All proceeds from this year’s event will go to Hall County’s Gateway Domestic Violence Center, Forsyth County’s Family Haven, and Dawson and Lumpkin County’s No One Alone Shelter. The Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office’ goal is to raise $20,000 and to max out Will’s Park Equestrian Center at 220 horses. The event will be held in 2014 on July 18, 19 and 20 at Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta, GA. With more time to market the event, this year’s show is predicted to be the biggest and best show yet. So, shine up your boots and head down to Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta, GA on July 18, 19 and 20 for the 13th Annual Benefit Ticket to Ride Horse Show!
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BREEDING | 20
YOUNGSTERS AT WORK THE TEQUESTRIAN FARMS YOUNG HORSE SHOW CHATTAHOOCHEE HILLS, JUNE 14TH 2014
On June 14, 2014, Chattahoochee Hills will be hosting The Young Horse Show Series on their beautiful facility in Fairburn, GA. Sponsored by Tequestrian Farms, the show will give breeders and young horse owners the opportunity to compete alongside horses of the same age and ability. W W W. Y O U N G H O R S E S H O W. C O M
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The Young Horse Show was created in 2009 in an effort to promote American sporthorse breeders and young horse owners and offer an affordable show venue to introduce and evaluate their young horses. The YHS is based on the European format of young horse competition and offers a variety of classes including jump chute, in hand/at liberty, suitability for sport under saddle, dressage, and over fence classes. With safety of the horses and exhibitors in mind, the YHS employs skillful and experienced handlers to work with the young horses during the jump chute and in hand classes. The over fence classes offer simple and inviting courses to allow young horses to get positive show miles without being over faced. The YHS is a great way for breeders and young horse owners too not only compete their young horses, but it is a great opportunity to network with other industry professionals. Because there are so many talented and well-bred horses in a single location, it is also a great way to exhibit horses for sale, and for potential buyers to see a large number of horses in one area. The YHS is excited to bring the series to Chattahoochee Hills and we look forward to seeing the Young Horses in June! Please visit the Young Horse Show website www.younghorseshow.com or our Facebook page for more information!
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BRINGING HARRY NORMAN’S REPUTATION, INTEGRITY AND PROFESSIONALISM TO THIS ARENA! w w w. H N R F a r m A n d L a n d . c o m The above information is believed to be accurate but not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. Forsyth Office 770-497-2000 Robert Aiken, Broker. If your home is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. www.harrynorman.com
. . . g n i c u Introd
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COLLE E EVENTING By Kay Amann
College Eventing is one of the most exciting things happening in the Eventing World today. Bringing the college spirit and fans into the competition takes eventing to a different level. Going to a show and seeing all the stalls decorated in red and black for UGA, brings out the competitive spirit in everyone! For those of you unfamiliar with Eventing, it is one of the Olympic Equestrian sports. A Triathlon competition, consisting of Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping. A single horse and rider combination competes in all three phases requiring an extremely well rounded, athletic, brave, and intelligent horse and a rider who is well accomplished in all three phases. The partnership and trust between horse and rider is a key, as they must be correct and precise in the dressage phase, athletic and careful in the show jumping, and brave, fast, and obedient in the cross country phase. The Eventing Team at the University of Georgia was formed in January 2013. With Jorja Miller as Team President and Kay Amann as Team Advisor, UGA Eventing began at Pascova farm in Athens, GA. Within a
few weeks, the team had grown to 24 riders and had gained numerous supporters among the alumni, community and among fellow eventers around the country. The UGA Team has received support from the United States Eventing Association and from the top riders in this sport, who regularly come to coach and train UGA riders and horses. In 2013, our team organized two highly successful Intercollegiate Team Challenges. The Challenges were held at Fence Horse Trials and at Chattahoochee Hills with teams represented from University of Kentucky, Clemson University, University of West Georgia, University of Tennessee, North Georgia University and, of course, the University of Georgia. Newly formed teams from University of Alabama, Auburn University, and University of South Carolina, Aiken, will join the other schools competing at the Team Challenges organized for the spring of 2014. One of our primary goals for College Eventing is to be recognized and supported as a sport by the individual schools. We are preparing a presentation to the University to get approval for the Eventing Team at UGA to be acknowledged as a official college team/club sport with the intention of having Eventing eventually recognized as an NCAA sport. As part of the presentation, we will be providing facts about Eventing, highlighting it as an Olympic sport and focusing on the advantages of students who continue to train and regularly participate in competitions throughout their college years. United States International and Olympic teams can only benefit from students being able to continue their schooling, while aspiring to become one of the top riders in the country.
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The Eventing Team at UGA already includes accomplished riders competing successfully at the top level. Libby Head and her horse, Sir Rockstar, are competing at Rolex this spring, which is the highest international competition in the United States. In our short time as a team, the national media coverage and interest from the upper levels of our sport has been so encouraging. Our team has been on the cover of the Eventing Magazine and has been in the eventing news online and in print on numerous occasions. We are continuously striving to promote eventing both at our University and at the other schools who are competing or attempting to form teams. Students from all over the country have come to visit us, looking for a college that has an Eventing Team, happily selecting UGA as their college for further education. At our competitions, both individual and College Challenges, we are able to visit with high school students and their parents for them to see first hand how college eventing works. We also have students and families visiting Athens at Pascova Farm and the University to get to know the team members and familiarize themselves with this opportunity. We are trying to form an avenue where talented riders can continue their competing on a national level while continuing their education. This is a viable option to compete and get a degree at the same time. We are encouraging other colleges to start their teams as well. The more teams participating, the better the competition becomes. We are all working together to make college eventing a big success. If anyone is interested in helping to promote the sport, joining our alumnae group, or suggesting it to a friend, please contact us either through our Facebook page or our website. We love to talk about eventing and especially the college side of it!
Eventing Team at UGA
if you would like more information about joining the UGA team as a rider or nonriding member, learning more about the team as future UGA student, sponsorship opportunities, or about contributing to the team, please contact us on Facebook. GO DAWGS AND GO COLLEGE EVENTING!!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO LIBBY HEAD AND SIR ROCKSTAR ON THEIR DEBUT AT ROLEX By Kay Amann
University of Georgia Eventing star Libby Head was a superstar in her debut to 4 star eventing at Rolex Kentucky this April. And her horse Sir Rockstar lived up to his name in all three phases. That is a lot of stars in just two sentences. But never were they more needed than to describe this pair. Qualifying for the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event is a feat in itself that takes talent, perseverance, and years of preparation. Completing the 3 phases is monumental ( only 40 out of the 70 plus horse and rider combinations who qualified completed the test). But this pair of Libby and Rocky did not stop there. They finished the competition in 19th place against professionals both men and women, and international and Olympic riders.
Libby did her jog out in her red and black and supported her UGA team the whole way. The officers, advisor, and team members and parents were there in all the team regalia cheering her on at every phase. For those of you unfamiliar with Eventing and Rolex, it is the only 4 Star Event in the Western Hemisphere and one of only four in the world.
All the best horses and riders from around the globe including many of the Olympic veterans gather for this most prestigious competition at the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park. There are over 70,000 spectators as well as others watching the live streaming internet coverage and the NBC TV highlight show. Finishing in the top 20 was quite the feat for this youngest rider, Libby, and the smallest horse, Rocky, in this event. It is virtually unheard of to do this well in one's first attempt at such an endeavor. And not only did they do well, but they aced each phase with a beautiful dressage test, a fabulous, brave, and clear cross country go, and a flawless double clear show jumping round. There was much chatter among the announcers and the crowds about the amazing talent of the rider, the incredible ability of the horse, and the bright, bright future for the pair. So GO LIBBY, GO ROCKY, AND GOOOO DAWGS!!
Eventing Team at UGA
Photo by:Caroline Pearson
EVENTING | 27
Photo by: Kasey Mueller
Photo by: Kasey Mueller
Photo by:Charles Owen Photo by: Kasey Mueller
After an exciting weekend, the 2014 Chattahoochee Hills International came to a close on Sunday May 18th. The Three-Star event, only in it's second year is gaining popularity among the top riders and spectators alike. For three days (May16 - 18) the crowds enjoyed the beautiful setting of Chattahoochee Hills Eventing, home of olympic eventer Carl Boukaert. This years sponsors included Atlanta Beverage, Triple Crown, John Thornton Cheverolet, Seminole, Ride Alert, County Saddlery, Dover Saddlery, Big Time Eventing, Wildhorse Tack and Feed, Spitfire, Markel, and HKM of Georgia. Friday night saw a spectacular combination of riders and horses perform at "Jumping Under the Stars". After the cross country phase of the event, innovations in equestrian clothing were exhibited at a fashion show presented by Style My Ride(Judge My Ride) and HKM of Georgia. The vendor village offered a wide array of exhibitors demonstrating exceptional products and services, and as was the case last year, hospitality was a key elemnt to the 2014 CHI International event. Along with the cooperation of good weather, a special note of recognition should go to Hugh Lochore, Sherry Hooper and Rick Dunkerton for seamlessly managing the event. Jon Holling and Proper Timing managed to overcome their three rails in show jumping by a clear trip on cross-country to take home the win in the USEA Adequan Gold Cup CIC3* division. In the two-star division, Sarah Dunkerton and Matapeake moved up to the top. Caroline Martin and Roller Skate finished second adding no jumping penalties to their dressage score, and Andrew Palmer with the Trakehner stallion Tatendrang finished third. Final CIC3* Results Jonathan Holling / Proper Timing 75.5 Nilson Moreira da Silva / Muggle 80.4 Elisa Wallace / Simply Priceless 88.2 Leah Lang-Gluscic / A.P. Prime 90.2 Jessica Bortner-Harris / Win the War 97.7 Final CIC2* Results Sarah Dunkerton / Matapeake 60.5 Caroline Martin / Roller Skate 61.9 Andrew Palmer / Tatendrang 67.7 Katherine Rivera / Royal Lufftanzer 68.0 Ellie Van Gemeren / Gemini Pilot 70.2
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XC Phase of the 2014 CHC International
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Entertainment Part of CHC Event “Style My Ride” Fashion Show Presenting Fresh Styles of equestrian clothing from HKM of Germany, Vincero Boots, Tredstep. The Show was organized by Judge my Ride and HKM Georgia USA, The Sponsors of the show were: Fantastic Sams, DeNiro, Free Rein Designs, Atlanta Saddlery.
Erin Michelle Photography Style My Ride for JudgeMyRide.net
Erin Michelle Photography Style My Ride for JudgeMyRide.net
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PHOTO BY JLM EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY
GDCTA YOUTH PROGRAMS PROUDLY ANNOUNCES THE DRESSAGE SEAT EQUITATION SCHOOLING SHOW MEDAL FINALS **ATTENTION ALL JUNIOR SCHOOLING SHOW RIDERS!!** GDCTA Youth Programs is pleased to roll out the **NEW** Dressage Seat Medal Finals to be held at the GDCTA August Schooling Show August 2 & 3, 2014** This is a Dressage Seat Equitation Challenge for our Schooling Show Participants modeled after the USDF Regional Semi-Finals and Finals Event. Similar to the hunter riders, these classes will run as a group Dressage Seat Equitation Class, broken into two age divisions, ages 13 & under and 14 & over. Classes will be Walk, Trot, & Canter with additional test movements asked individually. Watch for Schooling Shows Prize List to find qualifying shows. Finals held at the GDCTA August Schooling Show on Sunday August 3, 2014. Show Manager will sign off on these scores using the GDCTA RRF under Dressage: use Age Group under Level and “EQ” under Test. HOW TO QUALIFY: Earn TWO Qualifying Scores in the Dressage Seat Medal Classes at a GDCTA Sanctioned Schooling Show. (Minimum Score 70%) before the August GDCTA Schooling Show Finals at Wills Park August 2-3, 2014. Contact Liz Molloy, GDCTA Youth Board for more information or questions at (770) 634-4089.
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LETTERMAN JACKET PROGRAM WHAT IS THIS?
In an effort to award our student members enrolled in school (middle/ high school/college), GDCTA is pleased to announce the **NEW** Letterman Jacket Program. This program will recognize both Dressage and Event riders for their perseverance in their riding endeavors in Recognized USDF/USEF Shows and USEA Events.
HOW DOES THIS WORK?
You will need to ride in Recognized shows with the following categories: RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE: Introductory through Grand Prix RECOGNIZED EVENTING (HORSE TRIALS): Starter through Preliminary
HOW DO I QUALIFY?
1. 2. 3.
4. 5.
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Applicants must be a current GDCTA Member in the year which scores earned. Applicant is a Youth Rider under the age of 22 as of December 31, the year scores earned. Applicant is concurrently enrolled in school/college while maintaining at least the equivalent of 3.0 GPA. Proof enrollment in school and student achievement is required (ie: report cards). Applicant must volunteer 4 hours through GDCTA and have submitted signed Volunteer Credit Form DRESSAGE Requirements: a. Four scores achieved at two Sanctioned Recognized USDF/USEF Dressage Shows. b. AND One Rider Test Completion from Same Level c. Qualifying Scores are as follows: i. Introductory Level: minimum scores of 64%/[Rider Test Req. Waived] ii. Training Level: minimum scores of 63 %/[Rider Test Minimum Score 60%] iii. First Level: minimum scores of 62%/[Rider Test Minimum Score 60%] iv. Second Level: minimum scores of 61%/[Rider Test Minimum Score 60%] v. Third Level and Above: minimum scores of 60%/[Rider Test Minimum Score 55%] EVENTING Requirements: a. Two scores achieved at two Sanctioned USEA Recognized Events (Horse Trials) b. Qualifying Scores are as follows: i. Completed Event with no Eliminations, Retirements, MRs, etc. ii. Finished scores are with Zero Cross Country Jump Faults (Time Faults or Stadium Rails allowed) iii. Beginner Novice: Minimum score of 33 iv. Novice: Minimum score 34 v. Training: Minimum score 35 vi. Preliminary Minimum score 36
WHAT WILL I WIN?
A personalized (your name) Letterman Jacket. Go to the GDCTA Website to download your Letterman Jacket Application showing your qualifications by November 1, 2014. Applicants may apply for more than one level a year, and may participate in both sports.
QUESTIONS?
Don’t hesitate to ask. Contact Liz Molloy at MissLiz@TaramiaRidingSchool.com.
WELLNESS | 40
WELLNESS }41
HERE WE GO THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAM AT CHASTAIN HORSE PARK By Teresa Snyder Photography By Teresa Snyder Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, GA is a quiet story of history. As I drove thru Chastain Park, I could feel and see the old and new mingled together with the old oak trees and dogwood trees shadowing the park benches. The street wound beside baseball fields, tennis courts, and streets litter with the feel of community. As I came up West Wieuca Road, I could see the fence line of Chastain Horse Park and the little red Pony Barn. I entered the elegant new Clubhouse, once again the feeling of old and new, as I peered off the back balcony to the riding ring that was built in the 1940s.
I had the privilege to sit and speak with Kelcy Rainer, Therapeutic Program Manager and Gerry Hull, General Manager and board member. The history, present operations and future hopes were all discussed. The park itself has a history dating back to the mid 1800’s with the Creek Indians living down near Nancy Creek. At the turn of the century the City of Atlanta purchase 1000 acres and in the 1940’s, under the government work program, the WPA began building the park. Much of the land was sold to develop the community of houses surrounding the park. The stables were built in 1945 to accommodate horses that were used in the polo fields nearby. The center ring that sits behind the clubhouse was built, and at that time was known as the biggest and best ring in Georgia. The two stone walls that line over half of the length of the ring had wooden box seats that were rented for an event. Gerry Hull described sitting in the well designed box seats when he attended events here in the 1950s as a child.
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Stable at Chastain
The City of Atlanta still owns the Horse Park, but continued to lease it to different individuals over the years to operate and manage the property. It was hard to keep a profitable income and the property was not properly maintained for a period of time. In 1998 Amy Lance presented the City of Atlanta a vision for the horse park that would revitalize, revamp and bring a therapeutic horse program to the community. With a 20 year lease, she began the renovation process including building new stables, covered and lighted arenas, and many devises and special equipment needed for the therapeutic program. After many years of hard work by Ms Lance and many others, these programs have come to fruition. Today, Chastain Horse Park (CHP) offers horse boarding, Pony Birthday parties, a special event facility, horse camps, private lessons, training, and the school lesson program, volunteer program, Hippotherapy and the Therapeutic Riding program. The new vision for the community is to offer scholarships to those in need. Photography By Teresa Snyder
The Equine Assisted Therapy program at Chastain offers people of all ages with emotional and medical challenges to interact with horses. The physical and mental rewards, of a human creating a partnership with a horse in their own healing have proven to be a valuable tool. The programs consist of several therapists and certified PATH, International Instructors and many trained volunteers (for more information www.pathintl.org). The Therapeutic Program has also obtained a non profit status and relies on public contributions.
Top Right: Joshua Thrasher grooming Luke PATH Certified Instructor Kelcy Rainer Below Left: Lauren Jones on Big Mama Volunteers: Katy Rasche PATH Certified Instructor Kelcy Rainer Top Right: Joshua Thrasher on Luke Volunteers: Drea Besch, Chuck Bostwick, Chris Day PATH Certified Instructor Kelcy Rainer
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I was honored to watch a few lessons with Kelcy Rainer. The rider usually grooms the horse, with assistance. Different saddles and reins are used to meet the needs of each rider. The riders are carefully positioned onto their horse by the therapist and volunteers, the tack checked and rechecked for safety before they are lead to the arena or out onto the trail. I witnessed a young autistic boy learning to say different words and he actually said “hi” to me, as well as asking his horse to “whoa” and “walk”. A young girl with muscular problems was able to grip the reigns and turn her horse on her own. She rode thru an obstacle course the therapist set up for her, without being led. Another young lady was enjoying her time on the trail with her horse, gently stroking his neck every time the volunteer stopped the horse. All the riders were being reminded to keep there heels down, head up looking where they were going and to stay upright and balanced on the horse. I was also able to watch Hippotheraphy. A licensed therapist (Physical Therapist, Speech/Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist) assisted by a PATH certified instructor and volunteers work with riders. I watched children on horseback doing exercises to strengthen muscles and extend themselves in different positions while they smiled and laughed with the therapist. The therapeutic riding program has become an important part of the community and the Scholarship Program has been started to help families that are unable to afford these lessons. The Scholarship Fund depends on public donations and volunteers. If you would like to donate or become a volunteer please go to www.chastainhorsepark.org. You could be an important part of the program’s future and its healing affect on someone in need. Photography By Teresa Snyder Top Photo: Gavin Alkgazaraji Volunteer team: Patsy Chalfant, Rachel Grob, Cathy Johnson Therapist: Carrie Bartelme,MS,OTR/L Photo Below: Diana Vaysbeyn on Apache. Volunteers: Chuck Bostwick, Judi Dorward, Drea Besch
www.chastainhorsepark.org
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SHOOTING FOR THE STARS by Holly Richards
When Holly Richards broke her back jumping a four foot oxer as a teenager that left her with a paralyzed right leg, she thought her riding days were over. It wasn’t until a trip to Greece at age 40 that Richards reconsidered after a 24 year absence. While trying to reach Diktian, the mystical cave in Crete where Gaia gave birth to Zeus, she experienced her own epiphany. “There was no way I could make the several mile hike up a rocky mountain trail in 115 degree heat. I knew I wouldn’t make the trek,” said Holly. Then she saw the donkeys for hire. “ I’ll never forget her name, Katrina. I’d like to go back and thank her. She allowed me to feel walking again.” Upon her return, Richards, then living in Georgia, found her way to High Point Farm, where Cindy Thaxton, a U.S.D.F. Certified Instructor helped her get started. “Based on Holly’s balance and riding experience, combined with personal goals to compete as a dressage rider, we started to look for a solid obedient horse. Holly’s riding journey began with a fabulous Morgan-Friesian cross – Dauwe. He has the best combination of character and balance. He is a very solid horse and never spooks at anything,” said Thaxton. However, Dauwe’s lack of training and conservative nature caused Holly problems making the canter transition, due to her asymmetrical leg strength and agility. “Once she got him into his lovely canter, she did quite well. However, the green transaction caused her too much frustration to create the muscle memory I was trying to achieve.” The next mount Thaxton found proved to be a great match but also outside the box. Cayenne, a large bodied but still refined chestnut Shire cross had a sterling reputation with her previous rider, earning many ribbons and awards.
Holly Richards and Cayenne
“I chose Cayenne for her super balance and comfortable gaits. She’s very willing to be obedient and let the rider lead. Cayenne prefers not to be asked more then once for a transaction. That makes it much easier for Holly to spend time thinking about her own riding rather then constantly having to touch up the horse,” noted Thaxton.
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“Cayenne gives me legs,” says Holly, not without emotion, “She is an amazing partner. She bonds to her rider and gives you everything she has. She stands patiently at the block because I cannot have her move an inch while mounting and opts to stop when I become unbalanced while riding. She is a blessing for someone with disabilities.” “Its easy to see this pair is bonded, as I watched Cayenne follow Richards from the cross ties to the arena when I met them at Liberty Tree in Acton, MA, where they stabled for the winter. Cayenne gently accepts Holly resting her cane against her, while she hangs onto her blanket for balance. Now age 19, Cayenne still offers plenty of forward pep and a huge over stride surge at the walk.” “As long as you respect her mouth, she’s easy to get on the bit and supple. She’s not bombproof but her spooks are very manageable and I feel pretty confident and safe.” Richards has trained with Lainey Johnson since moving to Marlborough, MA. As a serious student of dressage, Holly gladly volunteered scribing at one of the Charles River Dressage Association show. At the end of the day, she put on her whites, put down her cane and to the murmuring surprise and comments of onlookers, “That’s a big Horse!”
rode Cayenne to the high point of 74.2 for a Grade III PE test. Overall, she won the 2012 Year-end CRDA Champion Award for disabled riders with a 68%, which was also the reserve high point for the entire season for all riders in the series. MOUNTED ARCHERY Holly is also an archer and enjoys bragging how she shoots a Scythian bow off Cayenne. “She is incredible! Never even reacts or spooks … except once when I shot right between her ears.” Drawing and shooting arrows at targets at the trot, timimg and accuracy, puts my 20-meter circle ambitions to shame. What does archery have to do with dressage? Besides a link back to military origins, where a hands free horse responsive to solely to the seat was essential for survival. It is a pretty cool, fun way to test your skills. “Last week, I shot my bow off Cayenne at the canter for the first time! Totally her idea! I asked for a trot, she elected a canter after I prepared to shoot. I hit the target! I think Cayenne knew I was ready and just threw it in my face because I had anxiety over it. Even did the shot in my dressage saddle!”
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Richards loves to share this passion and teaches archery clinics to all types of people, but predominantly women and girls. For women coming out of abuse situations – it is a real confidence builder. “It’s so empowering,” Holly says. Her six-year old daughter already enjoys sitting on Cayenne’s broad back drawing back arrows to shoot at targets. As she gained momentum riding again, Richards admits the struggle to come to grips with the notion and definition of being labeled disabled as a para-equestrian. Especially since when she’s on her horse, she doesn’t feel disabled. “When I worked with Holly, she was in position where her greatest desire was not to be considered disabled. I believe her embracing her leg’s limitation is exactly why she has learned to compensate and overcome,” says trainer Cindy Thaxton. “My role was to help her to achieve balance cantering the horse and I believe we made it a success. Finding the right horse that will work together with the rider to built confidence was a challenge but now we have a perfect team, who are ready to compete together and shoot for the stars.” said Cindy.
FREE REIN DESIGNS By Marci Gillman Byrne Free Rein Designs was developed several years ago when I decided I should combine my fashion background with my love for horses and the equestrian lifestyle. I was a Fashion Merchandising major in NYC and worked in the industry for many years. I also started riding at 8 after hours and hours of begging my parents for lessons. Horses and design have been in my blood forever. I am glad that my expression of that love is translated into beautiful handbags and belts that have a unique but classic style. Along with the items I create for sale in my mobile store, I also do many custom pieces utilizing clients personal tack on the piece designed exclusively for them. Free Rein Designs www.freereindesigns.net
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SUSAN EASTON BURNS OFFICIAL ARTIST OF THE140TH KENTUCKY DERBY Being chosen as the official artist of the 140th Kentucky Derby is an honor and challenge in so many ways. Horses and art have defined my life for as long as I can remember. I have been an equestrian athlete waiting for the starting bell of an endurance test with my horse on cross-country and I have competed in dressage. I understand the unity between two athletes that is required of any equestrian event. The honor of being selected to paint for Churchill Downs further unifies two great passions of mine, art and horses, at the highest level in the equestrian world. The artistic challenge for me was to remember what the day really represents and to convey that meaning as honestly as possible. This tradition has been with us for 140 years. Thousands of people have spent countless hours establishing 2 small minutes as a reminder of some simple principles that guide us in the universe. Unity, the pursuit of excellence and honoring those who came before us are some of the principles that apply here. These principles are observed in all cultures and their truths are universal. While working on these paintings I thought a lot about the unity, excellence and tradition that has, over the years, been poured into these 2 minutes. Unity of the human and horse, the evolution toward excellence that we all participate in every day and the observance of tradition, which honors those who came before us. From the discipline of the athletes to the tradition of women dressing like bright flowers in a garden, my goal was to create a unified work that commemorates and honors both the human and animal efforts required to produce such a spectacular event. The 140th Derby week is another opportunity for thousands of workers and beautiful animals to present unity, excellence and tradition on a world stage and I am thrilled to be a participant. www.susaneastonburns.com Susan is represented by dk Gallery in Marietta, GA; Equine Divine, Aiken, SC; Timpson Creek Gallery, Clayton, GA; Atelier Gallery Charleston, Charleston, SC; and The Red Arrow Gallery, Joshua Tree, CA
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LOCAL ARTIST ULLA STRICKLAND Ulla Strickland is a native of Germany and moved from baroque Würzburg to Atlanta in 1993. Riding and painting from an early age on, she has managed to combine her two greatest passions, horses and art. She started taking riding lessons at age eleven and when her mom bought a very handsome black Trakehner gelding, he quickly became her favorite model. As a student, Ulla was part of a select intensive study group around well-known illustrator and art professor Sven-Roland Hooge. While she prefers dressage when riding, she will draw or paint anything related to horses that catches her eye, be it horses at liberty, a canter pirouette, foals playing, or a commissioned portrait. Clients most often request her “Ghost Rider” portraits, showing a horse in a dressage movement or over a jump with just an outlined rider visible. Ulla has repeatedly shown at the annual GDCTA Awards Gala and organizes art shows at regional horse shows. Ulla Strickland Studios has actually become a household name among horse lovers – and art lovers – nationwide.
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Ulla explains her art like this: “Art in whichever form it appears expresses an individual’s personality and my art is straight forward, positive and mostly self-explanatory. I live for the beauty in nature, it is my inspiration, and art is my spiritual release. Something catches my eye, its beauty leaving me in awe, taking my breath away - I feel the urge to paint it. Since horses have defined my life from an early age, and their beauty of body and spirit is undeniable, they are found in the majority of my artwork. In my early drawings, the more detailed they became, the more I was able to experience the materials being created from my pencils – a cashmere scarf, the smooth coolness of glass, the softness of a muzzle, the brightness of an eye. Later, watercolors started to emerge; the preferred color Blue reflecting my inner balance, calmness and stability. I have managed to create a perfectly balanced life for myself and hope to convey and to share some of that. The best thing someone can do for me is be genuinely delighted by what they see in my art and feel good for the rest of the day.” www.UllaStricklandStudios.com
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Ride Alert – a precaution worth taking! Horseback riding can be a dangerous sport, no matter which discipline you follow. Accidents can and do happen, which is why the Developers of Ride Alert’s unique 24/7 Emergency ID and support service have come up with their latest phone App (iPhone and Android).
Right Start Photography
The newest member of the Ride Alert ‘stable’, this App is ideal for all riders who carry their smart phones with them. Launching the App activates a motion sensor, which remains silent as long as you are moving. If the phone detects no movement for a pre-set time period, it will alert you with a siren, and if you are unable to turn off the alert, the App will automatically contact your pre-loaded "Buddies" sending them an email/text (including a GPS map), to notify them that you might need help.
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Awarded “Editor’s Choice” and “Best Buy” in a November 2013 Horse Journal article, Ride Alert provides a simple online means to identify you and your horse and to record your medical and emergency contact details for later use in the event of an accident or illness. Ride-Alert has been developed to provide peace of mind for riders and their families, and can work for you even if you don't use a smart phone. When you register for a Ride Alert family subscription (from as little as $24.99 a year), you can choose from bridle/saddle tags, a wristband, or gel badges that you can affix to personal property like your phone. If someone finds you or your horse after an accident they can call the number on the ID device and be connected to Ride Alert's 24/7 support team. They will identify you using the unique ID number on the device and contact your friends or family with details of the accident - and they will keep calling until someone is reached. When Ride Alert came to the US at the end of 2012, it was on the back of some long-term success in the UK, but it is only now that people are beginning to appreciate just how important and valuable the Ride Alert service is. Our newest members of the Team – Dom & Jimmie Schramm of EventionTV had this to say about the product: “For most of us there's no better place to spend your time than on the back of a horse, however horses can be unpredictable animals and sometimes you can find yourself in a pretty dodgy situation, often with little or no warning. That's why we were super excited when we discovered Ride Alert - an amazingly simple, inexpensive, yet effective equestrian ID and 24/7 emergency support service that every rider needs to have. Ride Alert's innovative products allow Jimmie and I to feel secure about the safety of our staff, students, horses and ourselves - whether we are hacking out alone, practicing in the Arena, or riding around a Cross Country course.” That Ride Alert was able to secure the endorsement of such well-known Eventers and TV personalities as Dom and Jimmie (before the USEA approved rule change to allow wristbands in Competition) goes to show the quality and value behind the service. If you're interested in learning more about this innovative safety measure, and how such a big benefit can be provided for such a relatively small cost, please visit our website www.ridealert.us and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ridealert247
W W W. R I D E A L E R T. U S
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The research undertook to measure the forces on the horse and the rider. By using one horse and six riders using the same saddle filled with wool and then with the Flair air flocking system.
WOW Saddles: Proven to reduce pressure A recent study carried out by Dundee university has independently verified that Flair - The air flocking system gives 26% less pressure on your horses back than wool flocking!
This is a great independent test of the Flair system. The research found that the forces on the rider increased with Flair. This is not a negative as the problem with this type of testing is that the horse is not constant. When such a large difference in pressure is made to the horse’s back this allows the horse to move bigger under the saddle/rider. The reduction in pressure results in increased stride length along with swing and elevation of the back. This induces move movement in the rider, which amounts to more forces being applied to the rider. In other words it verifies what First Thought Equine Ltd the manufacturers of Flair have claimed about their product, that if you want a bigger moving horse Flair has the ability to deliver that movement.
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Professional riders use Flair for that very reason, Wayne Channon will not ride in anything else now he has felt how his horses backs swing, as does Richard Davison, Lesley Payton-Gilbert, Paul Tapner, Kitty King, Francis Whittington and many, many, more. “The ideas along with the research and development strategy that First Thought Equine has employed to create and prove their products is enlightening and refreshing to see in the saddlery industry,” says Wayne Channon. “This product appeals to me on two fronts; its ability to deliver a better moving horse whilst providing more comfort for that horse and as a scientist, a science based approach to proving and then improving the product by using the best available technology and materials.” It has therefore been suggested that there be another study carried out where the horse is replaced with a simulator so that a more controlled test without variables in the horse’s gait affecting the data. A simulator will keep the horse induced movement in the rider a constant and therefore accurate assessment of the forces applied to the rider
using various saddle flocking materials can be measured accurately. First Thought Equine Ltd have 10’s of thousands of customers using the Flair system, a lot of them with quite severe back problems. All these riders report that they are much more able to ride with the Flair system in their saddles compared with other flocking materials as this typical email points out. WOW Saddles customer Georgina Greenslade says, “I have owned and ridden in Flair saddles for over 15 years and after breaking by back just over 8 years ago, my Flair saddle is the only one I can ride in for hours on end, without getting a backache!” For more information about WOW Saddles visit www.wowsaddles.com or call 01227 831614. Be the first to find out about new products and research by liking the company at www.facebook.com/wowsaddle