Ahc dec:jan 2015 by city horse connections

13 TH EDITION - 2015

2015 USDF SPORT HORSE

DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM

Yvonne Barteau

DRESSAGE IS FUN artist

SYDNEY FROST and much more!

the ultimate holiday

Penny Morse Editor

Heidi Caldwell Creative Director

LOOKING BACK AT 2015, it was a roller coaster ride for so many. Extreme highs and lows, and some events, that left you shaking your head wondering how that happened. We lost many wonderful horses and riders due to illness, age and accidents. I have several friends who have suffered broken wrists, arms and legs this year due to a riding ‘accident’. Therefore my first topic is safety. After all the injuries we have seen over the years I can still look on social media today and see riders with no protection on their head or their body!

Heidi Caldwell and her gelding Gabriel JF

On the cover...

For the sake of your families, who have to nurse you back to health, please remember the following...accidents happen! If you are riding at home, or at a barn, wear your helmet! Dressage riders, Eventers, Hunter-Jumpers, I promise that baseball cap, however cute it looks with your outfit, will do you no good should you hit the ground. Trainers, please teach by example! Our Western riders, I understand your ‘right to choose’, but your cowboy hat is not great protection either. I cringe at the sight of kids barrel racing at insane speeds, with a cowboy hat and no body protector. So, for this Christmas, what about a really cool helmet for you or your family member who rides? Anyone who rides at speed, or jumps, take a look at the new body protectors, now available. There is one for Eventers, Jumpers, Hunters and for just riding. Let us focus more on safety in 2016. Have your trailer serviced. Check your tack every week for possible weakness. If there is a piece of equipment available for you to wear that will save your life, invest in it. We would rather talk to you, than about you. Always remember, your horse is your best friend, but also has the ability to unintentionally kill you. On a happier note, may each and every one of you have a joyous holiday season and a wonderful new year. We look forward to 2016 and hope we continue to keep you entertained and informed. Thank you for your support over the last year. Penny Morse

Atlanta Horse Connections Magazine is now a part of City Horse Connections, an equestrian network bringing ther equine world together, one city at a time. /atlantahorseconnections

CITY HORSE CONNECTIONS

QUE

S T RIA N N ET

Holiday Magic with KYB Dressage Christmas is a special time of year for many and the Barteau family loves the Season so well they built a Holiday show around it. The Spirit of the Horse, a charming family tale about two orphans, a snow queen, guardian angel, villain and fairies comes to life every year! This season, The Spirit of the Horse returns to its roots with three showings at Grand Prix Equestrian Dec. 4th 5th and 6th. Shown here is Yvonne Barteau and the Grand Prix stallion GP Raymeister, owned by Ginna Frantz.

For more information or to request a media kit Please contact Penny Morse designonpenny@yahoo.com 770.316.8655

All articles and pictures are owned and copyrighted by City Horse Connections, a subsidiary of JJP Group, Penelope Morse and Heidi Caldwell. Reproduction of copyrighted material, without prior permission of the copyright owner, is illegal according to 17 U.S.C. Reproductions of copyright materials apply not only to traditional works such as books, photographs, drawings, etc., but also digital media such as music, movies and software. ©2015

26 what’s INSIDE 4

LOCAL NEWS Polo for a PAWS

©Chris Hutchings

HUNTER JUMPER

9 14 18

Goals are Important with Harrison Ford

DRESSAGE

USDF Sport Horse Prospect Development Dressage is Fun

EVENTING

©fireandearthphoto.com

Fitting the Correct Bit with Clayton Fredericks

20 22 24

INTERNATIONAL

Taken for a Ride in Greece, Part IV

WELLNESS

Homeowner’s Policies

WESTERN

Western Dressage Year in Review

2630 3234

LOCAL NEWS

Polo for Paws Newton County Special Olympics

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT Think Italy this Fall Artist Sydney Frost The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide

DRESSAGE Dressage is Fun! “Dancing Horse”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Sydney Frost

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

goals are important...

so keep them FLUID

Harrison Ford

HUNTER JUMPER

FOR MANY IN THE HUNTER JUMPER WORLD there are a few big horse showing events that stand out in our annual competition schedules and around which we mark annual calendars. For those of us on the east coast they are the winter circuits in Florida, the Devon Horse Show in the spring, Pony Finals to wrap up the summer & Indoors in the Fall as our last big hurrah to before the season ends. For those unfamiliar with the hunter jumper and equitation world Indoors equals….

The best of the best. The top 20-30 Hunters and Jumpers in the country and the top 250+ equitation riders meet at Capital Challenge outside Washington, DC, then head to Harrisburg, PA for the PA National and finally the Verizon Center in downtown DC for the Washington International Horse Show. These shows are the goal and to get there we as trainers and riders have logged countless hours of coaching students & schooling horses, hundreds even thousands of miles of hauling to and from various show grounds, getting up before dawn more days than not to make sure everything is prepped and ready all for a handful of minutes in the ring and hopefully enough points on the roster to qualify to compete among the best. Having been an active participant in this business for the past 20+ years now, I have been fortunate enough to attend all of these shows in one capacity or another whether as a rider or trainer. This is where the who’s who of the horse

world meets. It is easy for anyone to feel like a small fish in the big ocean at these shows where one is likely to look up in the schooling ring and see that they are sharing a jump with one of their equestrian idols, or stabling near olympians. The sheer volume of exceptionally talented and well trained horses is awe inspiring and newcomers can’t fail to notice the quality, detail, and intensity of upper level instruction taking place all around them. This atmosphere is daunting for many. Yes, qualifying is a major achievement in it’s own right, but show up and you will be surrounded by hundreds of others who have earned their place here as well and want that ribbon just as much as you do. As with any competition, there will only be a few who head home in glory, and many more who leave empty handed. For many of us who are in this sport our driving impetus is a love of the animals and the challenge of pushing our partnership with them to

season by constructing a clear plan for the following 3, 6, 9, and 12 month with each horse and rider partnership. Shows need to be chosen carefully to create challenges with out over facing and allow for attainable successes along the way to reaching bigger goals. Riders should understand the type of mount needed to reach their goals and only ask of their current horse what is capable of giving. Often this is the time of year we begin to consider upgrading to a more experienced or athletic partner and perhaps passing the current horse on to someone who can also learn from it within it’s realistic abilities. Budgets need to be planned accounting for board, farrier, veterinary maintenance, travel and show expenses. This is often a delicate balancing act. It

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

bigger and bigger heights. We do this because we love the challenge and thrill of reaching those milestones from the first blue of the year to the arrival of a national finals acceptance letter in the mail. Goals give us something to reach for, a fuel for our fire driving us to keep pushing when we are ready to throw in the towel.

Success in this sport is cannot be forced or achieved through mere mental conviction and will power, and it is my belief that the most successful horsemen and women are those who know how to adapt to what their mounts are telling them in a myriad of unspoken ways. Working with horses we face the additional challenge of engaging with a living, breathing creature with a mind of its own and no conception of our prescribed goals for the future. We hope that the stars will align for our chance at glory and if not we regroup, re-evaluate, and move forward with new plans and revised goals. Success in this sport is cannot be forced or achieved through mere mental conviction and will power, and it is my belief that the most successful horsemen and women are those who know how to adapt to what their mounts are telling in a myriad of unspoken ways.

HUNTER JUMPER

One of the most important things I do with my students throughout the year is to regularly discuss and evaluate our goals. The trainer, rider, owner and parents need to approach every competition as a team with a clear objective both for the immediate and long term future. I try to wrap up each show

is critical to have an open dialogue with your trainer about what you can afford to do and what you desire to achieve so that he or she can guide your decisions throughout the year with that in mind. As with almost everything in life, you get out what you put in. More often than not in the horse showing world what you put in pretty much feels like mountains of cash and every second of your free time along with all your best hopes and dreams, but what we all get out of this wonderful sport is so much more than blue ribbons and names in lights. Its the life lessons of getting knocked off and getting back up on that horse. The people skills we hope to instill on our juniors and life lessons that will be absorbed and carried on with them for years to come. So make those goals… devise plans. Then meet with all those that are involved in and don’t be afraid to throw it all out the window and make a new one when you need one.

Quality Instruction, Training

Our premier facility om just 30 mins fr : ts as bo ta Atlan • Custom Saratoga Stalls with Stable Comfort air mattress stall mats • Large outdoor & fully enclosed indoor arenas • 4 board fenced paddocks

and

Care

for the

Modern Equestrian Competitor

• Climate controlled tack rooms and fully outfitted rider lounge • Regular use of our Thera-plate system and Kraft Equine Treadmill is included for all boarders. • In-house Magna Wave PEMF sessions for injury treatment and prevention

Get your new C4 Belt from Joanne Morse 770.316.8655 joannemorse1@yahoo.com

TRAINER

HARRISON FORD 678.857.8164 www.hillfordfarmga.com

When everything is riding on the perfect fit ...

Sweet Fresno Photography

Vincerò boots with Interchangeable tops & DeNiro Boots from StyleMyRide.net 404.520.0499

2 016   E V E N T D A T E S  2/13.................................................. Schooling Show 2/24, 2/28............................. Show Jumping Elite SJ 3/12.................................................. Schooling Show 4/9-10........................ Eventing USEA Collegiate Show 4/22-24.......................................... Eventing USEA 3* 5/21-22........................................................ Eventing 5/28-29............................................. Dressage Show 6/8-11.............................Southern Regional PC Camp 6/11.......................................... Regional Connemara 6/12.................................................. Schooling Show 6/20-24............................. Area lll Young Rider Camp 6/25-26..............................................Dressage show 7/2-3.................................................. Eventing USEA 7/9-10................................................. Eventing USEA 7/16-17.............................................. Dressage Show 7/30................................................. Schooling Show 8/4-21....................Hunter Jumper Series JP Goddard 8/27-28.......................................... Eventing USEA 2* 10/15-16................................... Hunter Jumper SGHA 10/29-30............................................. Eventing USEA 11/5................................................... Hunter Jumper 11/19-20........................................... Schooling Show

SEE YOU THERE!

WANT TO WIN A COPY?

We are giving away a copy of Yvonne’s new book The Dressage Horse Manifesto to one lucky reader! Wil it be you? Send your name and address to our editor, Penny Morse at designonpenny@yahoo.com. Contest ends December 31st and winner will be announced in January! 7

game changer � chanj-er] � [gam noun

1. A newly introduced element or factor that changes an existing situation or activity in an undeniably significant way. GASTROTECH® from Legends® is an innovative nutritional supplement, proven by Cooperative Research Farms to significantly improve gastric health in performance horses for a fraction of the cost of ulcer medications on the market. Where others failed to change the game, Legends excelled. Legends. Re-defining what horse feed should be. For more information, or to find a dealer near you, visit: www.southernstates.com/legends

GASTROTECH

SUPPLEMENT

Legends Feeds are fortified with Kentucky Equine Research® (KER) micronutrients to meet your horse’s individual needs. For feeding advice or to create a custom ration using Legends Horse Feeds, visit microsteed.com/legends. Visit legends.equinews.com to subscribe to The Weekly Feed, an award-winning newsletter powered by KER. The Weekly Feed contains the latest in equine nutrition and health news, as well as updates and special offers directly from Legends Horse Feeds. If you have questions or comments, please contact Feed Division Customer Service at sscfeedquestions@sscoop.com Southern States®, Legends® and Fresh From the Heart Fresh From the Farm® are registered trademarks of Southern States Cooperative, Incorporated. Kentucky Equine Research®, Equinews® and MicroSteedTM are trademarks of Kentucky Equine Research. Cooperative Research Farms® and GastroTech® are the registered trademarks of Cooperative Research Farms, Incorporated.

Off Per Bag of Legends GastroTech Supplement (552-53016)

COUPON VALID THROUGH 6/30/16 AT PARTICIPATING SOUTHERN STATES® AND AGWAY LOCATIONS ONLY Limit 1 coupon per customer during promotion period. Limit of 5 bags discounted with coupon. Discount applies to sale merchandise, but may not be combined with any manufacturer coupons, clearance pricing or other discounts. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Coupon has no cash value. Cannot be applied to a previous purchase. Original coupon only - coupon may not be mechanically reproduced or altered. Coupon is subject to state and local taxes. Void where prohibited by law. Independent Dealers: send redeemed coupon and copy of sales receipt to: Corporate Marketing – SM, P.O. Box 26234, Richmond, VA 23260. 17502951. EV.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

On a perfect fall weekend, eight young horses ranging in age from three to four who are preparing for a career in dressage, were presented during a two-day symposium.

Assesing the performance potential of this talented pool of young horses were

Karen Lipp aboard her three-year-old mare, Baily.

Scott Hassler & Willy Arts.

USDF SPORT HORSE PROSPECT

DEVELOPMENT FORUM Heidi Caldwell

NO STRANGERS TO HOSTING GREAT CLINICS, the beautiful Shannondale Farm (owned by Julie and David Shannon) in Milton, Georgia played host once again to the USDF Sport Horse Prospect Development Forum this October 24-25. Designed to provide a correct fundamental system for starting sport horse prospects, the forum was ideal for trainers, breeders and owners of young horses to learn the methods and techniques of two of this county’s best young horse trainers - Scott Hassler and Willy Arts. Auditors came from all over to take advantage of this once a year educational opportunity to learn from the best.

asance Man HVH

Austin Webster riding Renaiss

Scott took a very light and playful approach with his equine participants. Some of the highlights that he stressed when training a young horse were as follows.

from Scott... Keep things light and simple. Ask with breathing aids, not “screaming” aids. Harsh aids translates to the horse as yelling at them, which makes no one happy. Use the least amount of aid possible, being mindful that your aids are your voice to your horse.

DRESSAGE

A collection of three and four year old warmbloods of various bloodlines were the participants for two back to back days. They came from all over the east coast and although they were all unique and quite different from

each other, the quality of these horses could not be overlooked. Scott and Willy approached each horse as a unique individual and payed particular attention to the physical development and conditioning for each. The difference in the three to four year olds was most evident in overall muscling and topline strength. The sessions were appropriate for each pair and while it was challenging for them, did not tax them physically or mentally beyond what they could handle. Willy and Scott took turns coaching a pair while the other listened and chimed in if needed. They both had their own way of teaching and philosophies, although they were in total agreement on all of the fundamentals.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

“Ask with breathing aids, not screaming aids. Harsh aids translate into yelling at your horse.” – Scott Hassler In your aids, always use your leg first which creates the forward desire in the horse. The whip is only used for support and a hard whip only asks for a fight. There is a difference between forceful and clear, be clear. A light whip aid is used once a horse is already going well, as a way of reinforcement of the bounding and engaging force that they must maintain. It is their job to maintain a desired tempo and energy, not yours. When introducing lateral work, make them comfortable in it. Take 4-5 strides in a lateral movement like a leg yield, then proceed straight for 4-5 strides. Then ride 4-5 strides of lateral once again to straight 4-5 strides. These short bursts of 4-5 strides of this exercise allows the rider time to re-align and control the shoulders, thereby making the training correct. This exercise was very helpful for a few pairs and the horses were able to process what the riders were asking and confidently proceed. Willy had his own approach but similar theories. Some of the highlights from his pairs were as follows.

from Willy... Play a lot with the tempo of the gaits in a young horse, don’t be afraid to go forward and active and don’t be afraid to slow it down and shorten. A slower trot can help create a better trot. Use your upper body to slow a horse down. An active walk is very important but be sure to create and allow relaxation and never force your walk. In the canter, never chase a horse into it even though it can be tempting - especially on a young green horse. Your legs must do the asking followed by a light whip aid if they are not responding immediately. You must first make sure you have “enough” power in the trot before asking for the upward transition. Once in the canter, if he breaks gait down to trot, be sure to get a good organized trot once again before going back to canter. And once you have a quality canter, don’t allow it to fall apart before asking to transition back to trot. The important thing is the quality of the canter, not the length of time you hold it. That can be built upon in time. In the canter, again, play with tempo and allow the horse maximum length of his neck which gives you the maximum amount of his stride. One of the training points Willy stressed over and over with almost every

“The horse needs to be forward and active off the hind leg, but not running off.” – Willy Arts

DRESSAGE

lin Hallie Ahr nsbrak riding Dub

©Chris Hutchings

pair he worked with was the importance of “accessing the hind leg” (paramount for everything in dressage training). The way to get that access is through transitions, lots of them. The horse needs to be forward and active from the hind leg, but not running off. Once a horse is four years old, Willy adds lateral work into a horse’s repitiore. A hint of collection can be added here and there but never is it done with a short neck. The lateral work needs to be done with a “maximum neck” - one that is never short and tense but rather long and with the nose out a bit. He stressed that the neck is a “balancing pole” for the horse and he needs to have the freedom to use it. He commented that he sees way too many riders allowing their horse to be going around with a too short neck and that when that occurs, it makes the horse “fishtail” behind. Willy also demonstrated some in-hand work on the lunge line. He showed his methods for getting a horse accustomed to the saddle and bridle. He also showed his technique for lungeing for maximum training effectiveness. He is not a proponent of side reins on a three year old and the less equipment the better for him. He outfits young horses in a plain snaffle bridle, surcingle and a neck/breastplate that allows the surcingle to not be very tight at all around their girth but will still hold the equipment in place. Later in a horse’s experience level he will add a saddle to the tack used

©Sherry Smith

instead of the surcingle. At all times he stressed relaxation, forward desire and attentiveness to the handler.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

©Sherry Smith

Together Scott and Willy conducted an end of the day conformation clinic, allowing for audience questions and participation. They showed the clear differences between three horses, using less developed three year olds and the more developed four year olds. Each horse was discussed showing their strong points and suggestions were given for areas on their bodies that may need attention. Proper conditioning does not happen overnight and they said to expect all changes in a horses’ body to happen very slowly, over a period of several months to years. Good nutrition is paramount for growing young horses and proper physical conditioning with use of hills and hacking out are recommended. Lunch was served for all participants and auditors upstairs in the viewing room. A wine and cheese reception was held Saturday evening after the conclusion of the day’s events and Scott and Willy made themselves available to talk with people and answer questions. All the riders seemed very pleased with their coaching and Scott and Willy were impressed with the quality of the pairs they got to evaluate. The 2015 USDF Symposium was successful by all accounts and we thank all who participated and volunteered.

©Chris Hutchings

DRESSAGE

Previous page, Scott Hassler, Sue Bender (USDF Region 3 Director), Julie Shannon, Kathie Robertson (USDF Education Dept. Manager) and Willy Arts. This page, top, Willy Arts in a lungeing demonstration with Kir Royal, owned by Pam Hara and conformation evaluations. Above left, Regina Milliken riding Ramira, a 4 yr. old Danish mare. Middle, Willy and Scott. Above right, Willy coaching Justine Wilson on her 3 yr. old KWPN mare, Hypatia.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

an insider’s view...

WELL KNOWN, ATLANTA-BASED dressage trainer Karen Lipp was a participant in this year’s Young Horse Symposium. She gives us her insider’s view on the experience with her new young mare, Bailanda. She just recently purchased and imported this extremely talented young mare from Stafford Barton Stud in the UK and wowed the clinicians and auditors.

AHC: Tell us a little about your young horse experience in general, have you always started youngsters or is this one the exception? KL: I’ve always trained my own horses from youngsters. I feel they are clean slates and with correct basics and good health, they all can be FEI horses. This will be the 5th horse I’ve taken through the developing horse program. But I’ve trained dozens of young horses up – can’t afford the trained ones! AHC: Did you have any apprehensions about participating in the clinic with your new mare? KL: I had only had Bailey 3 weeks before the clinic, so entering in it was a bit last minute. I was

BAILANDA is a KWPN mare by Bretton Woods out of a Sir Donnerhall mare.

very excited to see how she responded in a different environment and get to know her in a different place. She was perfect, I couldn’t have asked for a better 3 year old. AHC: What were your expectations of this clinic with your new horse and were they met? KL: I hoped to come away from the clinic with a new and valuable perspective on Bailey and her development. They were definitely met and I enjoyed hearing Scott and Willy’s insights into young horses. AHC: Have you worked with Scott or Willy before? If so, when and where? KL: Yes, I’ve worked with Scott several times on young horses. Specifically with regards to my other mare, Baximilana, and Kathy Oldford’s mare Whitney. AHC: Were there any specific things or tips they gave you that really helped your communication with her? KL: I really liked the thought process of increasing and decreasing tempos by levels. It is a good way of visualizing the transitions.

DRESSAGE

AHC: As a trainer, there must be so many things that you must look for when picking a horse but what are some of the most crucial things you tell people to look for when shopping for a young horse? KL: I look for horses that have (1) 3 good gaits, especially with regards to the walk and canter, (2) excellent ridability and a good mind, (3) a good vet check, (4) breeding is important as well!

AHC: When you start a young horse, how soon do you try to get them out and about to shows? KL: I like to take my young horses out to shows. As a 4 year old, I normally show them training level and maybe 1st if they prove they are ready. I also like the FEI young horse programs and often aim to compete in them. I don’t think that a horse has to show every level in order to move up the training pyramid correctly. I show a horse wherever the horse feels the most confident.

E Q U I N E M O R TA L I T Y & FA R M 770.461.4315

F F

COMMERCIAL

SINCE 1963

PERSONAL

L I F E & H E A LT H

HARBINAGENCY.COM

advertising

brand development

publication design

logo design

STAY INFORMED!

From local stories and trainers to national news and competitons, Atlanta Horse Connections is covering all things important to the Equine Community!

SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE! 6 issues per year

website design

hcd

invitations

heidi caldwell design

Aug/Sep • Oct/Nov • Dec/Jan • Feb/March • April/May • June/July

email: designonpenny@yahoo.com

creative services for the equine industry & beyond

678.677.3774

heidicald@yahoo.com

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

ÂŠJohn Borys Photography

dressage is

FUN!

So many of us ride without eyes on the ground and yet we want to know that we are getting the most out of each ride and that our horse is actually improving because of the time we spend on his back. How can we maximize our riding time? It starts with having a lesson plan both short and long term that is reasonable and appropriate and includes being willing to adapt that plan on a ride to ride and day to day basis. Let me explain.

Yvonne Barteau

how to make your own lesson plan

DRESSAGE

YOU WANT TO MOVE UP A LEVEL NEXT YEAR but your horse has not mastered the required movements and you are unsure how to teach them. Now that YouTube and the Internet is available that is no longer an excuse. Read. Watch videos. Attend clinics either as an auditor or rider so you can break down the skills you need into easier segments. There is no reason to forever stay below third level because your horse does not have a lead change. Most horses will learn to change leads. Work on the quality of jump and connection in your canter until you are happy with that. Read some more. Watch more videos. Think the whole process through before you get on your horse. Then pick a side to start on and stay with that change until it gets somewhat reliable. It is usually best to teach your horse to change to his stiffer side lead first.

Now with all you know and have worked on go try a change. After your attempt stop and think it through. Did your horse try to change leads, or at least do something,when you asked him? That is the first question. If he did not acknowledge your request work on walk to canter transitions on the side you are going to change to until you get a quick reliable response. If he tried to answer but just sped up or jumped sideways without changing leads that is still a good thing. Go back and check that the canter you are in before you ask for a change is balanced and has good jump. Can you leg

yield a few strides in that balance? If so, leg yield more towards the lead you are already on and then when the moment is right, rather suddenly try to leg yield towards the lead you want to change to, get your response and then stop and think again. What did he do? Did

Get a LEG

UP on the NEW YEAR!

ndon, DVM, Dr. Libby Reidy, DVM , Dr. Jason McLe DVM olds, Reyn hew Dr. Matt

608 Hwy. 29, Newnan, GA 30263

Winter is a perfect time to schedule your horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yearly wellness checks and get their routine maintenance completed. From floating teeth to joint injections, start now and your horse will be feeling great for spring! We are committed to serving you and your horses with exceptional care all year round.

southerncrescentequine.com

770.252.6860

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

he try? If he did be sure he is relaxed and calm after his attempt and then set it up again. Often a horse will change either in front or behind and then cross canter a few strides before finishing the change or he might break down to trot, or switch back to the lead he was on if he is unbalanced. These are still good attempts so do not get discouraged or punish your horse. A friend can video your attempts for you and you can check that your feel matches what you see. If you do not get your horse upset with you and you remember to not expect instant miracles you will likely get the job done. The same can be said for many other movements you might be struggling with. Remember that you need to sit quietly when you are not asking for something so your horse knows when you want

your actions. Also try to vary the timing or dosage of your aids when you do not get your desired response and not to change aids that your horse already understands or can interpret too frequently. You want your horse to learn to respond reliably to aids he understands and knows the answer to. That is how you will best communicate with him. Remember to always have a good warm up, finish on a good note and do not expect miracles to happen in one day. Each small bit of acceptance and understanding will lead you to your desired goal. There is great satisfaction to be had when you and your horse accomplish something new together so get on out there and give it a try! Happy Riding.

something and when you are happy with him by your stillness or

COMING SOON! The Dressage Horse Manifesto: Training Secrets, Insight, and Revelations from 10 Dressage Horses By Yvonne Barteau Grand Prix dressage rider and performer Yvonne Barteau has

them; the value of routine,

trained her share of horses over the years—from off-track racing

consequence, and peace;

Thoroughbreds, to Arabians, to Friesians, to Warmbloods—and

the importance of leader-

she asserts that everything that needs to be known about effec-

ship, fairness, and trust;

tively training a horse is already known…by any horse.

the need for your sense of responsibility to match

“Each horse,” says Barteau, “will know and respect the person

your ambition; plus, what kinds of rewards really work and what

who figures out how to train him, if that person is fair. The best

frightens, annoys, or causes horses to disregard us altogether.

trainers are not only ‘horse whisperers,’ they are listeners. And readers. They listen to what the horse has to say. They can read

If you listen properly, horses will tell you how to train them. This

horse body language and behavior patterns. They are calm and

book is a published declaration of their needs as our athletic

they stay calm under pressure. How did they learn that? By

partners, fellow competitors, and friends.

studying horses. Over time the horses told them how to be a horse trainer and they listened.”

THE DRESSAGE HORSE MANIFESTO, the new book from Atlanta

Barteau believes that every dressage rider can learn to listen and

Yvonne Barteau, is coming soon! Atlanta Horse Connections

read, and so experience greater success and partnership with his or her horse. In this book Barteau has used her knowledge

DRESSAGE

and decades of experience and success in and out of the dres-

sage ring to help put to paper what 10 different dressage horses would say to you about horse training if they could. Through the dressage horse’s mouth, from his point of view, readers learn: how simple things really are and how complicated we make

Horse Connections’ favorite dressage trainer and performer readers have the opportunity to sign up now on the waitlist for THE DRESSAGE HORSE MANIFESTO by visiting publisher Trafalgar Square Books (www.horseandriderbooks.com). You will receive a special gift notice to give during the holidays – a lightweight and easy-to-mail way of letting horse-loving friends and family members know a book has been ordered in their name and is on its way!

CLINICS AND COACHING WITH CLAYTON FREDERICKS Clayton’s career highlights

FREDERICKS Equestrian International fredericksequestrian.com lisa@fredericksequestrian.com Lisa – 352-895-2144 clayton@fredericksequestrian.com Clayton – 352-299-3213

V E CO T OR UTTTO ON S .COM VECT RBBUT NS. CO M

IMPORTED QUALITY HORSES Book to try your dream horse today.

• FEI World Cup Champion 2005, 2008 • Individual silver and team bronze World Equestrian Games, Aachen (2006) • Winner Lexington Kentucky CCI4* (2007) • Team silver medal Hong Kong Olympic Games (2008) Clayton’s international coaching experience extends across all levels of the sport around the world. He regularly travels to teach in Germany, Australia, Hong

Kong, Canada and around the US. Many of his pupils have gone on to compete at the CCI 4* level. You can book individual or group training sessions with him at his top-notch facility in Ocala, FL. If you can’t make it to Florida, you can host a clinic at your facility. Give riders in your area the chance to train with one of the world’s top riders. He is happy to teach all levels of riders in any discipline.

CONNECTING RIDERS WITH EXCEPTIONAL HORSES Results are the proof For over 15 years Clayton Fredericks and Eckart Siewert have been the source of numerous top horses and had the pleasure of watching them ride to victory, time and time again all over the world.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or an amateur seeking a quality mount, we have access to an abundance of European horses/ We can source one specifically for you, like we have for many clients, including the following:

• Leopin (Micheal Jung’s 4* Winner) • FBW Chico (Alex Hua Tian of China’s First Olympic Mount) • Bendigo (Winner 3*, Placed 4*, Clayton’s 2012 Olympic mount) • Catchascatchcan (Sarah Kozumplik Murphy) • RF Smoke on the Water (Marilyn Little’s “Superstar Event horse”) • Bentley’s Best (Jessica Phoenix’s winning CCI1* horse and rising star) • Chatwin (Frankie Thieriot) • and the list goes on....

We welcome the opportunity to work with you.

Magazine -2nd ad-1/2 page.indd 1

2015-02-11 1:53 PM

From our barn to

yours...

Have a wonderful Christmas and joyous New Year! A tlanta Horse C

onnections 17

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

As everyone knows achieving success and that feeling of one with your horse is not just about training and lessons. There are so many factors that you must consider as a rider and getting these just right for your horse can be the key.

fitting the correct AS RIDERS (or perhaps better described as managers) of our horses, we are tasked everyday with decisions that will affect our horses performance such as feed, supplements, training schedules and tack choices. One key piece to this puzzle that is often overlooked is bitting. Finding the right mouth piece for your horse and fitting the correct bit will allow your horse to be ridden in the comfort they deserve and help avoid any training issues in the future.

BIT

Clayton Fredericks

If you are having problems finding the correct bit for your horse the first step is to ensure that there is no mouth, back or neck problems with your horse. No bit will help if there is any pain or discomfort already causing issues. Have a look in your horses mouth and see if you can see anything obvious such as a thick tongue, sharp bars, fleshy bars, low roof of the mouth. Also give your horse a once over from your vet or teeth specialist to determine if there are any underlying issues. The next and perhaps the most important step is to find the right mouth piece for your horse. To do this the rider must look at what the horse is doing with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head while been ridden and be able to understand what the horse is trying to tell us.

EVENTING

The 4 most common reactions from horse are:

1. The horse sticks its head up in the air when the rider takes up a contact. This indicates that the horse objects to pinching of the tongue and bar pressure. Riders should opt for a three-piece bit such as a French Link or Control Plate. These

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

bits will reduce the pressure on the tongue and bars and as a result the horse will bring its head down and in. 2. The horse shakes it head when the rider takes up a contact. This indicates the horse has a sensitive tongue and would prefer a bit that relieves tongue pressure. These types of horses would be happier in something that is curved or ported to give maximum tongue relief such as a Segundo or Happy Tongue. 3. The horse brings its chin to its chest when a rider takes up a contact. This is a sign that the rider is using too strong a bit and the horse is trying to evade the pressure. The rider must either ride on a softer contact or look for a softer bit. 4. The horse put’s it’s head down and out trying to pull the reins out of the rider’s hands. It is objecting to the continuous pressure of the bit or the rider’s hands and would appreciate a softer bit. Once the correct mouthpiece is chosen it is essential that the mouth is measured correctly and the mouthpiece fitted accordingly. Most horses are fitted with bits that are too tight and this just adds more pressure. To measure a horses mouth use a straight rod, put it in the horses mouth, lift it to the correct place in the mouth and mark the rod on both sides just outside the lip crease. With a fixed mouthpiece the bit size required is the measured size but for single and double-jointed bits add 10mm to the measured size.

I very rarely school my horses at home in a noseband with a flash strap or use these in competition while Show-Jumping or CrossCountry. Dressage judging sometimes dictates that I add a flash strap to my horses for their tests as the marks can be reduced if there is any sign of the horse opening it’s mouth! While I have only covered the very basics in fitting the correct bit it should give anyone that is having issues finding the correct bit a starting point for their search. More information and a color-coded system for mouthpieces to help you select the right bit can be found at www.bombers.co.za Once you have succeeded in finding the correct bit for your horse the real training can start!

Clayton’s

TOP 3 picks

BOMBER BLUE PELHAM

FULMER WATERFORD

DEE FRENCH LINK

EVENTING

One other crucial aspect to a horses comfort and softness when riding is the tension and locking of the jaw caused by nosebands and flash straps cranked tight.

Ask anyone that has ridden or audited at a clinic with me about the huge amount of nosebands I need to loosen or completely remove to help the rider achieve softness. While the riders sometimes take some convincing I have never seen a horse get stronger or pull harder once the pressure from the noseband is relieved.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Carolyn Haward, FEI International Show Jumping Judge, Greece

taken for a

RIDE in GREECE PART FOUR

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Technical Problems - Ding Dong Bell...

The bell is the primary means of communication between the judges and the competitor. It gives the rider the green light to start the course, it is rung to stop the rider in unforeseen circumstances such as if a fence has blown down or there is some obstruction on the course; it is rung after a refusal with a knock down, and then to restart the rider on his course. Most bells are buttons powered by electricity, or at some venues a classic large brass bell is positioned in front of the judge or outside high above on the side of the ‘box’ and sounded by a sharp tug on a rope. The latter is the most reliable, not vulnerable to power cuts, and often kept as a stand-by to back up the button type bell. So do things ever go wrong? Oh yes, they do! I was the foreign judge at a CSI3* in Grobbendonk, Belgium. The setting was beautiful, in a large sports complex outside the town. There were two arenas in close proximity, both grass, and two judges’ boxes so classes could be held simultaneously. In order not to confuse the riders, the main arena had a ringing

bell operated by pressing a button, while the second arena had a buzzer, a different sound altogether but also operated electrically by a button. The Ground Jury, including myself, arrived early in the morning for the first class at the second arena. I was rostered to be the judge in charge of the bell for the first class, a competition in two phases, the first phase judged under Table A (each fence down penalized by four points) and the second phase under Table C (a fence down converted to four seconds of time). This difference between the phases required the full concentration of the judges. It is so easy to continue scoring four faults instead of seconds in the second phase if your attention wanders at all.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

This morning in May was cool and very damp. Dew twinkled on the grass in the weak morning sun. I was guided to the Judges’ Box where my Belgian colleagues showed me the workings of the buzzer and the stop/start time button situated on the same small plastic attachment. Then suddenly, to everyone’s surprise, a loud buzzzzz leapt out at us. “What’s that?”I asked, jumping out of my skin. “Oh, it’s the buzzer. The wiring must be affected by the damp weather and it has short circuited,”came the reply. “Well, I hope it won’t do that while a rider is on the course,” I added, in consternation. I was assured that the sun would soon dry out the equipment and there was no need to worry. Some forty minutes later the competition began. Several riders completed their course with out a hitch, with us judges giving our full attention to the scoring. Then – it happened! A rider from Mexico had successfully finished the first phase and was cantering towards fence 3 of the second phase, all clear so far, when....... BUZZZZ...... sounded out loud and clear! Visibly shaken but committed to the next fence, the rider hesitated while the horse took off with little momentum, catching the oxer with his hind legs as the whole fence came crashing down around them. At that point the rider stopped and looked up at the judges’ box, as if to say, “What have I done?”

bell was controlled electrically with a button but there was also a massive brass bell hanging high up outside the window above the judges, with a long rope attached to it and hanging inside, to be pulled in the unlikely case of a failure in the primary electric bell. Murphy’s Law states that anything which can go wrong WILL go wrong......and Mr. Murphy sure got it right on this day, early on in the jumping competitions at the Olympics. Horror of horrors, the electronic bell refused to cooperate......it malfunctioned! Apparently

So do things ever go wrong with the bells and buzzers? Oh yes, they do! How did we put things right? Well, first of all, we disabled the selfoperating buzzer and resorted to its back up, the hand operated bell, placed at an open window so as to be audible. The rider was allowed to restart his second phase then we could take his time, and any faults at the first two fences would have been disregarded. As it happened, the rider went clear. A very satisfactory conclusion for all, save for the fact that three very cold judges were sat behind an open window, exposed to the chilly air for the following hour, so cold that we could barely hold our pens.

He climbed onto his chair and from there he stepped up onto the bench and stretched his arm upwards to reach the ring to which the rope had been attached.........and all this behind the glass frontage of the Tribune and in full view of all the spectators! I have no idea what they thought was going on but poor Leonidas spent several uncomfortable minutes perched at full stretch in the line of duty until the main bell was repaired. Hum! That certainly rang the changes!

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Another faulty but funny bell incident happened at the Olympic Games in Athens in 2004. The whole equestrian centre in Markopoulo, 12 miles south of Athens, was specially designed and constructed for the Olympics. There were two arenas, a smaller sand arena for the dressage and a larger grass arena for the jumping. The brand new Judges’ Box was completely glass fronted, affording uninterrupted views over the arena and final collecting ring. Inside the box the judges and time keepers sat immediately behind the glass front while behind them, on a higher level, were the seating arrangements for the speaker, secretary and technical back up. The

the wiring had come loose, so to save the moment, the Greek senior Official International Level 4 Judge, Leonidas, who was responsible for the bell in this class, knew he had to take recourse in the big brass back-up bell. So, he duly yanked sharply on the hanging rope to start the next rider......and oops! The rope promptly fell down onto the bench without so much as a ding dong!!! What was to be done? Well, Leonidas is a very resourceful man, albeit rather large in stature and not easily given to strenuous exercise under normal circumstances. But these were extenuating circumstances!

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Bill Harris

when a

HOMEOWNER

POLICYcan walk away HORSE OWNERS, like everyone, depend upon Homeowner policies to manage the everyday, non-driving risks of our personal lives. And Homeowner policies serve that purpose well by protecting our homes and a wide range of our personal possessions, and by shielding us from the consequences of our own negligence if we injure other people or damage their property. These protections are so broad that we seldom even think about them.

WELLNESS

BUT WE SHOULD EXAMINE THEM VERY CAREFULLY. Horses are powerful and often very expensive, and so can be the consequences of owning them. Most horse owners know that Mortality insurance is necessary to transfer risks of death, theft, injury or illness to their horses. But what about those “other” risks of horse ownership? What if someone steals my tack? What if my barn catches fire or is blown down? And what if my horse injures someone else or damages their property?

The majority of horse owners may identify with either of these two families: The Smiths live in a regular neighborhood, own horses in their personal names, and board their pleasure horses at XYZ Stable. The Smiths’ Homeowner and Personal Umbrella Liability policies might be adequate to protect them in these circumstances. Even away from home, their tack and other personal items are insured for theft or fire (subject to their Deductible), and there is probably no exclusion for bodily injury or property damage arising from pleasure use of their personally-owned horses.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

The Joneses keep their personally-owned pleasure horses at home and trailer to shows. A Homeowner policy (and a Personal Umbrella) might be suitable for the Joneses, also. However, since coverage for outbuildings is usually limited to 10% of the Dwelling’s coverage limit, the Joneses will need to determine if that amount is sufficient to replace all their outbuildings - and must request a higher limit, if needed. Serious problems arise when horse owners stray beyond the “pure vanilla” examples described above. In basic terms, Homeowner (HO) policies are designed to insure all losses that are not limited or excluded by the policy’s provisions. Exclusions can be triggered by “business” activities such as boarding, training, riding instruction, or even ownership of pleasure horses by an LLC or other corporate entity. Three potential landmines are described as follows: Tack. This one can sting. HO policies cover Tack and equipment like all other household Contents, but severely limit coverage for Business Personal Property. So if you engage in any horse-related business activity, your Tack and Equipment may not be fully protected against damage or theft.

for business activities. If you engage in a horse-related business activity and your alleged negligence leads to someone else’s injury or property damage, you are the insurance company. There is no coverage at all, and you must even fund your own legal defense. The good news is that there are solutions for these deliberate Homeowner policy shortcomings. Equine Farm insurance is designed to protect farms of all sizes from the many risks of personal and commercial equine activities. Equine Farm policies may be tailored to include barns, tack and equipment as well as dwellings and contents. Commercial General Liability shields equine and other farm-related activities, and Commercial Umbrella Liability may extend above underlying farm, auto, boat, rental dwelling and other liability exposures.

If you board someone else’s horse, teach riding lessons, or even own your horses in an LLC, your Homeowner’s policy can walk away from any loss to your barn – even from a storm or fire.

Liability. This one can devastate your finances and ruin your life. HO policies are not business policies, and expressly exclude liability

If your circumstances have outgrown the protection of a Homeowner policy, now is the time to consult with a knowledgeable risk advisor to identify your potential risks and design a plan that will enable you to enjoy the life that you have chosen. Bill Harris is a Risk Advisor with The Harbin Agency, Inc., an independent insurance agency with a major specialty in Equine Mortality and Farm as well as Commercial, Personal and Life & Health insurance. Bill can be reached at billh@harbingency.com.

WELLNESS

Barns. This one can hurt. HO policies protect outbuildings under a separate “Other Structures” or “Dwelling Extension” limit, which is usually 10% of the Dwelling limit. However, HO policies exclude coverage for Other Structures “used in whole or in part for business.” So if you board someone else’s horse, teach riding lessons, or even own your horses in an LLC, your HO policy can walk away from any loss to your barn – even from a storm or fire.

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

A Western Dressage Christmas wish... A ride time at the 2016 WDAA World Championships

2015 YEAR IN REVIEW

WESTERN

ONCE AGAIN, the climax of the Western Dressage show season was the WDAA Western Dressage World Championship Show and Convention in November. Running alongside the Color Breed Congress in Tulsa, OK, there were more than 500 Western Dressage rides over the three days of competition.

Cheryl Freda Pritchard

heartening to see at the growing number of clinics. Not only has the number of clinics increased, but there is a considerable number of new riders and horses every time. Locally, the Newton County Saddle Club, which shows at International Horse Park, in Conyers, increased classes from one walk jog test and one walk jog lope test to offering four of each at the end of the year. A significant number of other competitors made the point to come and watch, and we also attracted spectators who just came to watch Western Dressage.

Just as the WDAA is growing nationally, the Western Dressage Association of GA is building a strong foundation with more shows, competitors and classes offered around the state. Not only at classical dressage shows, but at open saddle clubs, A- rated shows, small local western Our biggest challenge remains spreading the concept dressage events, as well as multiple clinics and demonstration rides. Western Dressage to an even wider audience. Our biggest challenge remains spreading the concept of Western Dressage to an even wider audience. However, it has been

It is great to see not only adults, but also youth participating in this new discipline. At one clinic, we had a 5 year old rider who

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Working on the correct position

had her instructor help her with the pattern on a lead line. I have a young client who went from being afraid of riding her horse, to working on Western Dressage Patterns because she thought they were fun. I guess she forgot to be afraid because she was focused on something else.

Paying attention

Now is a great time to try this sport. It has helped people gain confidence, horse achieve better collection and impulsion, horses

have another avenue to increase their training and clubs to include a more diverse group of horses and riders.

WESTERN

The horses not only include stock type horses, but also Arabians, Friesians, Halflingers, Thoroughbreds and gaited horses. I have a Thoroughbred who is now able to collect himself and relax while working on his jog and lope. The last clinic that I conducted in Jasper, GA, has some great gaited horses. There were several Tennessee Walking Horses that had great bend, collection, acceptance of the bit, impulsion and cadence at their flat walk and a running walk. It is no exaggeration, that when you see a really nice TWH performing as Western Dressage test, it will bring a smile to your face!

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Kimberly Lennon-Freire

IT IS WELL KNOWN THAT HORSE LOVERS are invariably dog lovers, and will willingly step up and adopt a dog that is just looking for their forever home. There are far too many dogs being euthanized every year because they grew too big, they wouldn’t behave or the owners couldn’t be bothered any more. Occasionally it is due to unforeseen circumstances, but not often.

To make a positive impact on this situation, Union Hill Polo recently hosted a charity event for Angels Amongst Us Pet Rescue, at their beautiful farm owned by Eric Steenlage, in Canton Georgia. Angels Pet Rescue specializes in saving animals from high kill shelters and providing them with TLC, foster homes, and ultimately their forever homes.

The Polo Match was a fun way to raise money for Angels Amongst Us Pet Rescue. The weather was perfect for such an occasion. The players were on top form giving the spectators an action filled afternoon! Representing the UHPC Grey team were

LOCAL NEWS

Eric Steenlage, Rob Rice, Stuart Campbell, and Winship Reese. The UHPC White

46 26

Team included Steve Adams, Cacho Acevedo, Andy Bashkin, and Antonio Silvestre Vargas. Also to be mentioned were the wonderful umpires, Esteban Zoppi and David

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

LOCAL NEWS

27 47

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

LOCAL NEWS 28

Lees. With the ladies wearing their hats and summer dresses and the men in their GQ attire, it was certainly a red carpet event! The old tradition of “stomping of the divots” (tufts of grass and dirt) was honored by everyone! At the end of the match UPHC Grey and UPHC White teams had tied but the Fund Raiser was definitely a winner! The polo riders and their horses were more than accommodating, allowing the spectators to meet their horses. The announcers excelled at explaining the sport of polo

and keeping everyone informed of what action was occurring at the time on the field. My own rescue dogs, Rolex and Chinchie were well behaved ambassadors for rescue dogs, entertaining those around them! What could be better than beautiful weather, wonderful food and beverages, beautiful horses, beautiful people, beautiful environment, and mostly a beautiful cause.....helping out animals in need. A big ‘Thank You’ to Union Hill Polo for hosting such a wonderful event.

For more information about Union Hill Polo go to https://www.facebook.com/unionhillpolo Angels Among Us Pet Rescue (based out of Alpharetta GA) go to https://www.facebook.com/angelsrescue

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

LOCAL NEWS

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

The athletes that take part in the Special Olympics have cognitive delays, and intellectual or developmental disabilities. The age minimum is eight years old, and even though a majority of athletes involved with Special Olympics are children, adults also participate.

OVERCOMING & WINNING THE Cindy Conrad

CHALLENGE

THESE EQUESTRIANS HAVE TRAINERS, and most compete at shows, some open, some for those with disabilities only, throughout the year. They are challenged, but they have an unbelievable spirit and a determination equal to that of any equestrian. The Newton County Special Olympic Equestrian Team has 12 active riders in this category. Interestingly enough they get no funding from Georgia Special Olympics, or any other agency related to the Special Olympics. They get together and raise the money to pay for the competitions. Being an accredited program through the Georgia Special Olympics, they can take tax deductable donations.

LOCAL NEWS

So what makes these riders special? Looking at the pictures, you will see determined athletes that enjoy what they are doing. Maybe they are challenged, but I have seen many riders over the years, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;challengedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; because they lost sight of why they were competing and had lost the love for their horse. These

For more information contact Cindy Conrad, 678-576-5348, lucindaconrad@bellsouth.net

riders find joy whether they win or lose, just by being part of something they love. The connection they have with their equine partner is heartwarming. Horses just seem to have an instinct for knowing that this rider is different. Maybe the unconditional love from both of them is something we have all forgotten or taken for granted over the years. There is an array of disciplines ridden by these riders. The one thing they all have in common, is they are all ready for a new challenge. For example this year, Carlin Lathi began her journey with miniature ponies, so she may learn to drive them. Their tenacity is obvious; applauded and envied by us all. The riders we are featuring in this article range in ages from 11 to 31 years old. They ride English and Western. We salute them, their horses, their trainers and the friends and families that do so much to keep this program going. It takes a village, and maybe there are some out there that would like to join the village either by donating or giving their time and knowledge.

1. Taylor Bradley (20) riding Apache 2. Cory Conrad (26) riding Hop Scotch 3. Gabrielle Crews, (15) riding Miss Kitty 4. Celeste Hall (26) riding Sonny 5. Elyse Keup (31) riding Charlie 6. Carlin Lathi (16) riding McQue 7. Lucy McDonald (15) riding Sonny 8. Michael Roper (26) riding Trey 9. Nicholas Slade (20) riding Apache 10. Beau riding Dream with Georgia Quarter Horse Association Queen Brittany Pritchett 11. Will Franklin (11) with Dandy 12. Aislin Gates (14) is all smiles and rides Sonny 13. Travis Ransom (21) riding Liz

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

N E W T O N C O U N T Y S P E C I A L O LY M P I C E Q U E S T R I A N T E A M

LOCAL NEWS 31

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

think

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

ITALY this fall

DURING THE FALL AND WINTER MONTHS I tend to give a little extra thought into what wines to feature. After all, the weather is getting cool, fireplaces are lit and friends and family come together to not only eat, but to also drink! And with so many food-oriented events this season, why not pick the most food friendliest wines on the planet? That is why Italy is my focus this season. Unlike most American wines, Italian wines are designed to be a part of your meal, not just a beverage. These wines tend to boast higher amounts of acidity, rather than fruit, which is able to cut through the fat on your steak or the rich cream sauce on your pasta. Acidity leaves your palate wanting more, your tastes buds on edge, and essentially keeps you coming back for another taste.

Tatiana Valentine

Granted there can be so many different flavors of foods at parties it can be hard to pin point your pairing, so why not choose a few classic Italian wines that won’t let you down. Moscato – La Perlina, or “little pearl”, is inspired by the mythical past of the Mediterranean. Made from hand-selected grapes grown on coveted, high-altitude sites. A delicately sweet white wine with soft effervescent bubbles packaged in a gorgeous mermaid labeled bottle. $16 Pinot Grigio – I am always on the search for a delicious Pinot Grigio that doesn’t disappoint. I was pleasantly surprised to come across Scarpetta Pinot Grigio from Fruili, Italy. Crisp and dry with

Barbera – Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey and Chef Lachlan Mackinnon Patterson clearly know how to produce wines that pair with food. You most try this medium bodied, juicy red Scarpetta Barbera Del Monferatto for under $20 a bottle

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

flavors of stone fruits, lavender, honey and minerality. A beautiful representation of the grape for under $20 a bottle.

Amarone – For extra special occasions also consider picking up a bottle of Amarone della Valpolicella. If you have never tried Amarone before, be prepared to pay a little more, but expect to taste the reason why. Amarones are rich, velvety, and are normally high in alcohol (14%-16%). Ripe grapes are hand picked, and carefully dried until they become raisins. The wine is then pressed from these dried grapes producing an intense and delicious red wine. This wine will rock your “red wine drinking” world. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you…

(Previous page) Enjoying my time with Bobby Stukey, Master Sommelier and producer of Scarpetta Wine. Below, Chef Lachlan Mackinnon Patterson, co-producer of Scarpetta Wine.

Email me at tatiana@cheriearmand.com with any wine questions or come see me on Friday evenings for a wine tasting at the shop. Cheers! Tatiana

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT 33

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

IN CASE YOU MISSED HER as one of the featured artists at the USDF Regional Championships in Conyers, Sydney Frost is an artist and photographer currently based in Atlanta, Georgia. While skilled in a variety of mediums, photography is her preferred method of artistic expression. While her photography is original and inspiring, her artistic talent is also apparent in her illustrations, logo designs and paintings.

artist

sydney frost Her photographs run the spectrum of fine art to original portraits designed and executed with the help of the subjectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; input. Unlike many modern artists, Sydney does not rely on photoshop as her primary base for her photography, but prefers to understand lighting and her camera to use her eye to obtain the wonderful pictures she produces. Many of her images end up in her mixed media pieces. An accomplished equestrian currently developing her farm in Brooks, Georgia, she has competed successfully in the higher levels of combined training.

Currently she is riding second and third level dressage, hoping to achieve her bronze medal next year, and training jumpers. Her life-long association with animals has made them a favorite and natural subject. Close to her heart are her chickens, ducks and of course her dogs and horses. With experience both in front of and behind the camera, she has developed an eye for composition and originality. Frost enjoys all aspects of documentary and fine art photography as well as illustration, mixed media and painting. She is currently pursuing a BFA at Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia.

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

Her work is curently available for sale. Please contact Sydney at sydneyfrost@gmail.com.

Midnight Cheval Series

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Midnight Cheval Series

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT 35

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

Downward Transitions - mixed media

Horses - mixed media

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Polaroid Transfers - mixed media

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

Untitled - acrylic on wood panel

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

‘Manichaeism’ series

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Friesian - watercolor

Dressage Rider - watercolor

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

Dancing Horse - watercolor

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

HKM Winter Thermo Paris Boots by Lauria Garelli are so warm and tough as nails, but cute as can be! www.facebook.com/HKM-Georgia. $85

Back On Track products are always in high demand because they work! From horse blankets and wraps to human gloves, their soothing benefits make a great gift for your favorite horse (or rider!). www.backontrackproducts.com. Sheet $219 - $269

the ULTIMATE

GIFT GUIDE Looking for the best gifts to give and receive?

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

We have a selection of the perfect gifts, for your favorite horse or rider, whether english or western!

Equestrian Belts from Free Rein Designs are custom made to order and are designed in many motifs. 770.366.3036. www.etsy.com/shop/ freereindesigns. $85 - $125

Equifit Boots are the perfect gift for the jumper riders in your life. T-Boot Luxe™ fronts $290, hinds $246. www.equifit.net

Deniro Boots are on every dressage diva’s list. Vincerò boots with interchangeable tops & DeNiro Boots from StyleMyRide.net. 404.520.0499.

HKM Breeches We love HKM breeches! These are Lauria Garelli Paris Bloom, in technical fabric, breathable with dirt resistant function. www.facebook.com/ HKM-Georgia. $181

T A E R G trainer gift! Trailer Eyes Trailer Camera System Everything you need to install the wireless camera system is included. 2.4 GHz. TE-0912, $199.99 special during the Christmas season. Built for horse trailer and truck setting. It has a 3.5” monitor screen. www.TrailerEyes.com 888.227.6888

KEEP AN EYE O YOUR H N OR WHILE YO SE U DRIVE!

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

RanchCams Trailer Camera System offers a full line of wired and wireless trailer camera systems starting at $495.00 with color cameras, infrared night vision and audio. Trailer systems feature up to 4 cameras with split screen viewing of multiple cameras. All trailer camera options including interior, rear view, and side view are weatherproof for operation under any conditions. www.ranchcams.net 800.747.3440

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Samshield Helmets’ XJ Carbon, is done entirely in Carbon fiber, a first in the horse industry. It is simply the safest, most comfortable helmet in the horse industry, $890. Blue Alcantara top Flower Swarovski, $998. Endless custom options available as well! www.samshield.com/en/collection/ shields/my-samshield

Doc’s Designs Stock Ties are the ultimate in style and convenience! Pre-tied and washable, each one is custom made and ship for FREE! Get them in you barn’s colors! Look for them on Facebook at Doc’s Designs. or on www.etsy. com/shop/DocsDesigns1. $69-$79

ATLANTA HORSE CONNECTIONS

Custom Browbands designed by Nancy Bardy are as unique as we’ve seen! Available for western and english bridles in many leather colors and beading. 770.714.1455, www.harmonysaddlefitting.com, $65-85

Thin Line Pads are used and endorsed by top riders worldwide for a reason. Horses with cold or sore backs simply love their pads. www.thinlineglobal.com/shop. $173.99 - $345.99

Shoulder Bags are perfect cross of style and function. “Bandana” by American West Lexington Hobo Bag Black Faux Leather $ 72.99. American West “Hayloft” Convertible Zip Bucket Tote Chestnut Brown Leather Tooled, 303.321.1793, www.thewesterncompany.com. $219.99

ART S & ENTERTAINMENT

Tin Haul Boots are full of attitude and make a boot for everyone! Ladies Multi Leather American “Shoot Like a Girl” boots, $309. 303.321.1793, www.thewesterncompany.com

Cowgirl Tuff Womens Denim Cotton Blend Jeans Bootcut “Don’t Fence Me In,” $71.99. High quality craftsmanship, unbelievable fit and unique designs, Cowgirl Tuff empowers everyone to be confident. 303.321.1793, www.thewesterncompany.com

Free Rein Design’s Triple Wrap leather snaffle bit bracelet, simple and classic and available in black, brown or aqua leather. Many other styles available. $38 - $85 770.366.3036. www.etsy.com/shop/ freereindesigns