APRIL 2011
Tamworth & District
LOCAL HORSE Magazine “THE
MAGAZINE ON THE SCENE”
FREE Online Magazine www.tdlhorsemag.com.au www.tdlhorsemag.com.au
FREE Monthly
NEW Section! Horse ! Drawn
INSIDE: The Light Horse Paint Horse Nationals NCHA National finals Training the Showjumper Colleen Kelly & Kelly Tombs Barefoot horses Clicker Training Vaulting Working Hunter Classes and SO MUCH MORE!.....
Susan Burnheim & “GO GECKO” Photo by: Mel Spittall/MSEQUIPIX Tamworth International Eventing PG 28
www.tamworthrural.com.au
CONTENTS
FROM THE EDITOR WOW! What a month ! I am very pleased to report that the very first edition of Tamworth & District Loc al Horse Mag has received som e AWESOME feedba ck! There’s nothing but good things ahead for the magazine it seems! We have been “Out & about” to as many events as we could and have also intr oduced a new section this month , “Horse Drawn”. Don’t forget about our free event listings and coaches and trainers listings!...all you need to do is email the information through to tdlhorsemag@live.com or call 0409 987 152 always more than hap . We are py to help out. We are also launching a classifieds section in the May edition so get in for that also (only $10 your adds a MONTH!)... If you have a minute, go join our page on Fac ebook to keep up to dat of the monthly compet e with all itions, advertising dea ls, events and more!... Hope you enjoy our sec ond edition! Happy rea ding! Cheers,
4. FEATURE STORY - The valour of the Light Horse 7. BREEDS - The Paint Breed ~ It’s all about the colour
Disciplines
14. Campdraft/Team Penning 18. Cutting 22. Dressage 26. Endurance 30. Eventing 36. Horse Drawn ~ NEW! 38. Natural horsemanship
42. Polo/Polocrosse/Horseball 44. Riding groups/Pony clubs
Mel
48. Rodeo/Barrel Horse
PG 4
52. Showjumping 56. Show Horse/Agricultural 62. Western Performance/Reining
Articles
PG 32
15. Campdrafting - About
PG 7
16. Starting horses on cattle 19. Sunrise Cutting Horses 23. Sitting Pretty - Dressage training for kids 27. The barefoot horse 31. Choosing your first event horse 37. The aspects of driving 39. Clicker training
PG 36
43. About Polocrosse - The rules of Horseball 46. Vaulting 53. Training the showjumper
PG 39
57. Guide to Working Hunter Classes Part 1 63. 5 tips to winning patterns in showmanship classes 64. Western Show clothing - What you need to know 66. PMT in mares - Fact or fiction
PG 23 PG 57 DEADLINE FOR ARTWORK 12th of each month
Service Directory 67. Service Directory
Disclaimer Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine have taken every care in preparation of this magazine. Therefore it may not be copied in part or whole for reproduction, without said magazines written authority. While we take every care in the preparation and accuracy of its contents we are not responsible for any mistakes or misprints in any article or advertisement, nor are we responsible for any errors by others. Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine accepts no liability resulting from omissions, errors, misprints or failure to publish any advertisement.
Cover shot: Susan Burnheim & “Go Geko” By MS Equipix www.msequipix.com
Contacts: Editor & Event coverage/ Photographer: Mel Spittall 0409 987 152 tdlhorsemag@live.com
View each edition online at www.tdlhorsemag.com.au 3
THE VALOUR OF
FEATURE STORY
The LIGHT HORSE So on the 26th of April we commemorate ANZAC day, every year we celebrate our ANZAC heroes and commemorate the fallen. But there were other heroes and heroines of the First World War whose stories have remained largely untold - the horses shipped to the Middle East to carry our troops who fought in the desert. Privately owned, they were often farm horses who followed their masters to war, and who fought and suffered alongside them in atrocious conditions. So while we celebrate our heros and commemorate the fallen, spare a thought for the four legged heros of war as well.... Australian Light Horse were mounted troops with characteristics of both cavalry and mounted infantry. They served during the Second Boer War and World War I. The Australian 4th Light Horse Brigade at the Battle of Beersheba in 1917 made what is the only successful Mounted Infantry charge (light horse is not considered Cavalry) in history. A number of Australian light horse units are still in existence today, most notably of the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry), now a light armored unit. Light horse were like mounted infantry in that they usually fought dismounted, using their horses as transport to the battlefield and as a means of swift disengagement when retreating or retiring. There was quite a difference between the mounted infantry horse and the cavalry horse. The mounted infantry soldier dismounted to fight, but the cavalry man was destined to fight off the back of his horse. The latter depended on the docility, speed, courage and athletic ability of his mount, while the mounted infantry man used his horse as a means of transport from one point to another, for example, camp to battle ground. The infantry mounts may have missed out on being cavalry horses because of poor breaking in or soundness. A famous exception to this rule though was the charge of the 4th and 12th Light Horse Regiments at Beersheba on 31 October 1917. In 1918 some light horse regiments were equipped with sabers, enabling them to fight in a conventional cavalry role during the advance on Damascus. However, unlike mounted infantry, the light horse also performed certain roles, such as scouting and screening, while mounted. The Australian Waler horse was the common mount for the light horsemen, as it was strong and hardy, which was needed in the harsh desert climate. This was facilitated by the horses being left behind in Egypt while the light horsemen went to Gallipolli, allowing them to gradually acclimatise. The New South Wales Lancers were supplied with police horses, many of which were worth quite 40 pound a head in Australia; in fact, if Australia had been raked from end to end, no better lot of horses would have been assembled together than those taken by the New South Wales Lancers. They were all well bred, well finished horses up to any reasonable weight, and many of them were fit to run a steeplechase in any company. Australian horses bought in their thousands at the cheap price of 12 pounds per head compared more than favorably with those from other countries in all aspects. They were light and wiry and active, and there was no comparison between animals. At the end of the war when we were celebrating our victory and there was much jubilation the order was given that the horses would not be returning to Australian shores. The reason being the expense was too great to bring them home as well as our quarantine restrictions in Australia made it virtually impossible. Australia being a continent surrounded by water was free from many of the equine diseases found in many other countries, it was felt the chance could not be taken to bring them back from the Middle East. This was very distressing to the men who had come to know their beloved horses as mates, they had fought this war together, relying on each other. There were 12,000 horses left at the end of the War of the 160,000 that had left Australia . Some horses were too old and battle weary and the order was to shoot them for humane reasons. The soldiers were heart broken to leave their horses behind on foreign shores to a life of hardship in Egypt and felt this was not on, so many of the men defied orders and quietly shot their horse, the officers sympathetic to the action turned a blind eye. Others were bought by the Indian army and would return to India, some were purchased by the British army and British Officers and taken back to the British Isles. A quote from the Time Life Books, “Australian’s at War - The Australian Light Horse “In the years ahead, the men of Beersheba would talk briefly of that magnificent and terrible action and tell of the death of mates with dry eyes and a regretful cock of the head. But for the horses that died that day, there would be a moistening of the eye and a silence of memory. As one light-horseman would say, “It was the horses that did it; those marvelous bloody horses. Where would we have been but for them?” Poems, books and feature films have been made and written about these men and their wonderful horses that stir our national pride. Where would Australia have been without their horses? Without these hardy Australian bush horses this country would not have been developed in the way it has, they carried our pioneers to the
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This image is of Romeo “one of the best”.....so stated by the pictured Light Horseman, Nick Curtain….this image was taken in Palestine 1918
As Lindsay strapped the stallion with the saddle and his pack He looked across his snowy plains, not sure if they’d be back The breeze had ruffled ostrich plumes that adorned his new slouch hat For they’d soon be bound for other lands with bandolier and strap With training done they shipped away to lands far o’er the world A foreign state for horse and mate, this kept their stomachs twirled Finally the ship had docked, the lads now seemed like brothers This work they’d have to learn in heat, a heat that mostly smothers
The Turks had heard of these strange men, so tough and hard to fight There’s even some from Gallipolli, where they’d struggled to match such might The Germans thought their mates were good, they’ll stave off these men The guns from high will decimate, the charge the Turks will stem The night was cold, yet crisp and clear, those thousands rode on through The Sinai hills reverberate to the Light Horse trotting true From Asluj to the battle front, no smoking was allowed With Lindsay on his stallion tall with mates all battle proud
The battle raged for an hour or more, with wounded by the score The smell was bad, and fear was rife, and the noise was a mighty roar Horse and man both gave their all to take this sandy spot But Lindsay’s mates could not be stopped, for they were the Light Horse lot
©Brumbyy
Lindsay and his stallion with his mates all side by side Rode past Bedouin desert camps, chests pounding with the stride The Kiwis hit the cliff so fast, they had to take the Tel With Aussies coming right behind, replacements from Chauvel
The battle was won and the men milled around, their wounds being a plenty severe When overhead heard, a sleek silver bird, the men could just watch and stare th th The 9 and the 10 was where it went, taking them out in full stride The bombs blasted down knocking Light Horse to ground, these men for all whom we have pride The war came to end at such a huge cost, a cost to so many was their all It was time for them now to report back to home, a time for the last recall They packed all their gear with their weapons now sheathed and saddled their horses to go For nothing in life could make them feel worse than the memories they now do know But then came an order not one to expect, one they couldn’t believe Well down men! but I apprehend, the horses you have to leave Well the men stood aghast of the command coming last, this surely cannot be so For these horses were mates who’d carried their fates to Beersheba, when all was aglow
Excerpt from
st The 31 of October was the date when all was still The fight for town Beersheba was being left to Light Horse will Till British guns did open up, the plan was now in hand They needed all that water that was buried beneath that sand
Brumb ys Place in Histor y
The weeks went by with tricks learnt new, and hardships of the plan These mighty band of warriors became warships of the sand The General came to sign them off with but a stroke of pen From this dry camp of brave young lads, rode out, the Light Horsemen
The anger of men who had to shoot their best friend, was not that you wished to see The men so more sad than the lost friends that they’d had, for the horses they wanted to flee These horses that fought in the desert for King’s Court, were now to be put in the ground In silence they took order, for war has no quarter, and knew they must do without sound Lindsay and stallion rode out in the sand with sight of but nary a tree They cantered the dunes in a circular ride to give them some time to be free Then sliding from aloft his magnificent friend from scabbard his rifle he drew With cloth covered eyes to his trusting stallion’s surprise, his best friend his life did he slew No one can say of the feelings that day of the men of the desert they knew For the minds of those men would remember the friend of what they and their horse had been through Twas dark of all hearts that this dastardly part, a pain that could never be stemmed So this is the story of war, no not it’s glory, but the killing of the Light Horsemen’s friend
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What’s on calendar Breeds AQHA National Championships/Q11 AELEC, Tamworth (02) 6762 6444 www.aqha.com.au
12th - 23rd April
Minature Horse National Show AELEC, Tamworth 02 48 446 393 office@imhr.com.au www.imhr.com.au
28th April - 2nd May
May 2011 2011 Australian Stock Horse Society National Championships 40th Anniversary World Championship Show AELEC, Tamworth
B r e e d s
S e c t i o n
April 2011
tdlhorsemag@live.com 6
9th - 15th May
It’s all about the The Paint Horse has become an extremely popular equine breed, bringing quality colour and versatility to a wide range of horse activities. Each Paint is an individual, colourfully different from all others due to the distinctive colours and coat markings. As capable and versatile equine athletes, they are able to turn in star performances in a wide variety of events, endearing themselves to their riders and rousing admiration from all those who see them. They are easy-riding trail and pleasure horses, hardworking ranch hands, standouts in every type of show ring class, rodeo champions, stakes-winning race horses, dependable gymkhana mounts, tops at cutting, favored as youth activity projects and profit- producing broodstock for serious breeders.
Overo (pronounced: oh vair’ oh) The head markings on the Overo are usually a blaze or bald face. The true Overo will usually have four dark legs and the white markings on the body or neck will appear to be framed by the contrasting coat. As a general rule, the white markings will not cross the back between the withers and the tail. The tail will normally be one colour. The Overo paint may be either predominately dark or white. Blue eyes are more often encountered in the Overo colour pattern than the Tobiano or Sabino. The breeding of Overo to Overo may produce lethal white foals. An Overo must always have at least one Overo parent. The Overo gene is dominant. Tobero (pronounced: tow bair’ oh) The progeny of a registered Tobiano and a registered Overo, that displays both colour patterns, is to be known as a “Tobero”, and will be recorded as such on its Registration Papers and in the PHAA Stud Book. By breeding Overo and Tobiano you could get a Tobiano, an Overo, a Solid, or a combination Tobiano-Overo, “Tobero”. A Tobero has the genetic potential to breed either Tobiano or Overo from a Solid coloured partner. Sabino (pronounced: sa bee no) The head markings of a Sabino can be a blaze, bald or apron face. These markings can be quite irregular and can appear to have slipped to one or both sides of the face. White markings are common on the bottom lip and at times extend up the jaw. One to possibly four legs will have white markings that come to an upward shaped point, and quite often the Sabino will have a high stocking. These stockings can extend up as far as the elbow or stifle. The Sabino may at times have markings appearing from under the horses belly. It may have white flecking through its coat and the edges of its white markings may be speckled or broken. The Sabino colour pattern can crop-out of the purest bloodlines as many Quarter Horses carry these markings. When the markings extend past the top of the knee and hock joint and beyond the corner of the eye and mouth including the bottom lip, the horse becomes eligible for the the Paint Horse Registry. The Sabino gene is thought to be recessive. Sabino/Overo The Sabino/Overo is a very common marking of the modern day Paint Horse. The horse will show both the Overo and Sabino coat patterns and has the potential to produce either the Overo, Sabino or Sabino/Overo coat pattern on its coloured offspring. The head will usually have quite a lot of white on it ranging from a small blaze through to a bonnet face (dark ears only). At least one leg will be white (most of the time) going up to a point. The body markings will appear quite irregular and splashy, usually starting on the belly and can then extend up the neck and back towards the rump. A predominately white Sabino/Overo is a horse displaying markings called a War Bonnet or Medicine Hat. Splashed White Rare pattern, typical characteristics are two pale blue white, all white or partially white tails, white coat pattern shoulders, hindquarters and lower neck, upwards. One walked through a pool of white paint. Topline of the horse common to this pattern in Australia.
eyes, bald face and head, all four legs are progresses from the lower abdomen, explanation of this trait is as if the horse has is usually a solid colour. Deafness is
B r e e d s
Tobiano (pronounced: tow be yah’ no) The head will usually be marked like a solid- coloured horse, either being solid or having a blaze, stripe, race or star and snip. All four legs may be white, at least below the hocks and knees. Body markings will usually be regular and distinct, often being oval or round patterns that extend down over the neck and chest giving the appearance of a shield. The Tobiano Paint will usually have the dark colour in one or both flanks. The Tobiano may either be predominantly dark or white. A TOBIANO MUST ALWAYS HAVE AT LEAST ONE TOBIANO PARENT. TOBIANO IS A DOMINANT GENE.
S e c t i o n
IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
Information from the PHAA www.painthorse.com.au
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Each year the Paint Horse Association organises or sponsors events to promote the Paint Horse breed in Australia. The main event is the annual National championship Show now held at the new AELEC facility at Tamworth. This year saw a very successful show with many competitors and a week full of events, from showjumping & dressage, to reining, barrel racing and all western performance events. The Paint Horse Association of Australia was formed in 1973 to collect, record and preserve the pedigrees of Paint Horses. Now, more than thirty years on, we have experienced enormous growth in members and the Paint Horse Breed. 'Something other than colour' was the basis for the Association. The purpose is to register, promote and keep records on a definite type - the Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred type of Paint Horse and this in itself may well account for the continuous growth of the PHAA. Members are breeding for bloodline, temperament, conformation and ability as well as colour. Proof of their breeding programs is showing as more and more horses competing on the Open Show Circuit are commanding respect and receiving many well deserved titles and awards.
The Paint Horse has become an extremely popular equine breed, bringing quality, colour and versatility to a wide range of horse activities. The Association also serves as an information centre for its members and the general public on matters pertaining to shows, contests and projects designed to improve and aid the industry.
www.painthorse.com.au
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Garnetgrove Electra 15mth old blue eyed bay overo filly registered PHAA 11647. Mature 15+hh. easy to catch, lead, handle, trim, rug, very quiet & gentle nature, no vices, unbroken. Would suit western pleasure, showmanship & western trail. Contact Garnet-Grove (02)66493135 or e: garnet-grove@bigpond.com Garnetgrove Hunter 16mth old chestnut overo paint colt registered PHAA 11646, very distinctive marking related to the Loots Image and Peppys Doc Bar lines. Mature 15+hh. Well coupled, easy to catch, lead, handle, trim, rug, very quiet & gentle nature, no vices, yet to be trained. Has the potential to do all types of disciplines. Contact Garnet-Grove (02)66493135 or e: garnet-grove@bigpond.com
Continental Saddle - #164 Black Beauty Reiner 16 " Seat e is c - Leather Stirrups S/N #U090308164. Worth $3265.00 i r eP . Included in sale Sal 65.00 2 Weaver Neoprene Smart Cinch - Black 32 worth $88.00 $3 xtra e t Padded Saddle Carrier Bag worth $95.00 igh Fre Padded Bridle Carrier Bag worth $35.00 The Saddle has never been used and still in brand new condition. Contact Garnet-Grove (02)66493135 or e: garnet-grove@bigpond.com
All Photography by Tania Hobbs
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL ARABIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
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If you would like your event/training day covered by Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine/MS Equipix, phone Mel on 0409 987 152 or email tdlhorsemag@live.com
2011 Miniature Horse National Show
Miniature Horses
Miniature horses make the perfect companion or serious competition horse for the young or the young at heart. Due to their size they are suitable for all ages and abilities. With a natural intelligence and athletic ability the Miniature Horse competes in conformation classes, jumping classes, trail classes and in harness driving classes. The Miniature Horse really is the Horse for Everyone. Height Divisions Our horses compete based on their height. Miniature is for those horses that will mature under 34.5”, Small Horse is for those horses that will mature under 38.5” and Little Horse is for those maturing up to 10.2hh. National Show Events
Classics This is a halter conformation class where all sexes compete against each other. It is judged by three judges with individual scores. At the end of judging, scores are combined to come up with the winners. The top 3 place horses receive prizemoney based on the number of entries in the prize pool.
Grand Championships The winners from each halter class go on to compete for the Grand Championship ! The second place getter to the winner of the Grand Champion plus the remaining first place getters then compete for the Reserve Grand Champion.
28th April to 2nd May 2011 FREE entry for spectators
www.imhr.com.au
Program of Events th
Day 1 – Thursday 28 April @ 8am National Youth Events SIRES Futurities AMHA Australian Titles National Harness Senior Jumping – Fault & Out th
AMHA and AMHR USA Australian Titles This section is a halter conformation class and open to horses registered with the American Miniature Horse Association or American Miniature Horse Registry only. Horses are judged on conformation as per a full size horse.
Halter Classes These are halter conformation classes and Harness Classes These classes showcase the Miniature are judged as per full sized horse Horse in another popular area – driving ! conformation classes. Miniature horses make fantastic driving horses.
Day 2 – Friday 29 April @ 8am National Showmanship Miniature Halter Performance – Hunter Classic Trot – Miniature Senior Jumping – Six Bar Liberty – Miniature th
Day 3 – Saturday 30 April @ 8am AMHR Australian Titles Small Horse Halter Little Horse Halter Senior Jumping – Show Jumper Performance – Lungeline Libert y – Small & Little Horse Performance – Trail Miniature Ponies (10 am Ring 2) st
Classic Trot This is a class designed to showcase and promote those horses with outstanding free flowing and ground covering movement. A very desirable trait in any sized horse.
Double Shot These classes are judged by two separate judges so there will be two winners for each class which may not be the same horse if the judges have not selected the same horses.
Day 4 – Sunday 1 May @ 8am Amateur Showcase Coloured Classes Group Classes Classic Head Classics nd
Day 5 – Monday 2 May @ 8am Double Shot
2011 Miniature Horse National Show
Youth Events This special section is for our Youth exhibitors under 18 years as at entry closing date. They are judged on their showmanship skills (how they handle the horse), hunter skills (jumping class) trail skills (obstacles similar to quarter horse events) and long reining.
Liberty This event is similar to that run by the Arabian Horses. The horses are set free in the arena and are encouraged to display all gaits with natural presence and movement. The event is set to music and is limited to 90 seconds after which time the horse must be caught and haltered – not as easy as it sounds after the horse has been kicking up its heels. This is probably the most popular spectator event of the show and certainly not to be missed.
SIRES Futurities This is also a multiple judge event (like Classics) and is also for prize-money. The eligibility criterion for this class is that they must be progeny of a pre-nominated stallion. Group Classes These classes are judged where we have more than one horse exhibiting at a time. Best matched pair is two horses that are very similar – desirable for harness pairs. Get of Sire is for three horses by the same stallion. The judge will be looking for common desirable characteristics that may be coming from that sire. The Produce of Dam is similar to the Get of Sire except that the horses must be out of the same mare. It is common for horses to compete Fancy Dress in both classes. This is a fun event where horses and handlers get all dressed up in the most Showmanship amazing outfits ! This is handler class where the judge will set a pattern for the exhibitors to follow. Exhibitors must follow this pattern while displaying their skills in handling the horse. The Newcomer class is for anyone who has not yet competed at a National Show and we also have classes for those with Special Needs.
Classic Head This is similar to the Arabian Horse class where the judge is looking for the most appealing head. All things are considered such as eye, ears and neck. This is a very popular class with exhibitors.
Coloured Classes This class is judged on 80% colour and 20% conformation so the priority is given to the horse representing the best coloured horse for its category.
Miniature Pony Classes These classes are open to those miniature equines that are registered Miniature Ponies as distinct from Miniature Horses. Miniature Ponies are traditionally heavier in type with thicker bone and deeper girth.
www.imhr.com.au Photos used in this publication are taken at the 2009 IMHR National Show. All images are copyright Š Horse Photography
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28 April to 2 May 2011 Australian Equine & Livestock Centre 503 Goonoo Goonoo Road Tamworth NSW 2340 Australia
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Phone (02) 6649 2203 or 0488 492 260 PO Box 5192, Glenreagh, NSW, 2450
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P e n n i n g C a m p d r a f t / T e a m 14
What’s on calendar Campdrafting/Team Penning Tamworth Team Penning www.tamworthteampenning.com Australian Bushmans Campdraft & Rodeo Asscociation www.abcra.com.au Australian Campdraft Association www.campdraft.com.au
April/May 2011 ~ Team Penning TEAM PENNING Australia - Run Dates April 17th - Don Willis Indoor Arena - Tamworth May 14th & 15th , Charity 2 Day Event - Charity Assoc TBA - Don Willis Indoor Arena - Tamworth
www.teampenningaustralia.com teampenningaustralia@bigpond.com Tamworth TEAM PENNING - Run Dates 10th April 8th May Lisa Wilson 02 67 621 928 www.tamworthteampenning.com
April 2011 ~ Campdrafting TAMWORTH CAMPDRAFT No Points JULIE HEINECKE (04) 2771 1701
2nd April
Walcha CAMPDRAFT Aleisha Clarke (02)67 772 879
9th - 10th April
AQHA - Q11 CAMPDRAFT AELEC 02) 6762 6444 www.aqha.com.au
14th - 15th April
DORRIGO CAMPDRAFT Points LAURIE DARBY (02) 6657 5123
16th April
Surrounding areas April 2011 ~ Campdrafting MUSWELLBROOK SHOW CAMPDRAFT Points BRAD SINGLETON (04) 0888 5997
tdlhorsemag@live.com
8th April
Campdrafting is a unique and very popular Australian sport involving a horse and rider working cattle. The riding style is like that of Western riding and the event is somewhat related to the American events such as cutting, working cow horse, team penning, and ranch sorting. In the competition, a rider on horseback must "cut out" one beast from the mob of cattle in the yard or "camp" and block and turn that beast at least two or three times to prove to the judge that they have the beast under control; then take it out of the yard and through a course around pegs involving right and left hand turns in a figure eight, before guiding it through two pegs known as "the gate". The outside course must be completed in less than 40 seconds. Events for juniors 8 years and under 13 years have one sound beast in the camp. In other events it is recommended that there shall be a minimum of six head of sound stock in the camp at any time. Up to a total of 100 points are scored by horse and rider: "Cut out" is worth a total of 26 points; horse work up to a further 70 points; and 4 points for the course. Most disqualifications
P e n n i n g
CAMPDRAFTING more than twice on the camp; losing control of the beast in the arena or running a beast onto the arena fence. A “tail turn” executed by a horse in the opposite direction of the beast's line of travel also incurs disqualification at any stage of the draft. The sport requires consummate skill and horsemanship, and the skill in selecting a beast from the mob that will run well, but is not too fast for that particular horse. Great prestige is bestowed on the winning horse and rider of the competition.
The horse The ideal horse for this work is considered to be about 15 hands and agile enough to take a beast from the camp without trouble. He then needs the speed to control the beast and the body weight to push a big bullock round by pressure on his shoulder, if needed. Beyond this, he has to be willing, and have the cattle sense necessary in this most exacting, and often dangerous trial of strength between man, horse, and beast. A bigger horse is typically not suited to the sharp turns in this sport. A polo or polocrosse horses’ work requirements are somewhat similar. A good campdrafting horse does not take his eye off the beast and the rider has to watch his own seat when the horse is propping and turning on the job. If the steer will not be readily persuaded into making any particular turn, he may then be “shouldered” into position by the horse pushing him in the right direction. The most popular breed of horse for campdrafting is the Australian Stock Horse. These horses developed from bloodlines of various breeds, some tracing back to stock that arrived with the earliest Australian colonists. Formal recognition of Australian Stock Horses as a distinct breed began in June 1971 when over one hundred campdrafters and horse breeders met to form the Australian Stock Horse Society. The first sale of campdraft focused horses was held at the Landmark Classic Campdraft Sale, Tamworth on 24 May 2008. The 103 horses sold to $51,000 and averaged $10,456.
C a m p d r a f t / T e a m
(signaled by a crack of the judge's stockwhip) occur when a competitor loses his beast
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P e n n i n g C a m p d r a f t / T e a m 16
Starting your horse on cattle work Cattle work can be an exciting and pleasurable activity for both horse and rider, whether you are a serious competitor, farmer or just learning. In this article we will outline how we like to introduce our horses to cattle. When doing this we will work on understanding what the horses attitude is toward cattle and noticing if the horse is curious, scared , uninterested or simply some where in between. Once this is understood we will work on building a horse’s confidence and creating an interest in understanding his task at hand. Before we start our task at hand we ensure we have our horses in the appropriate frame of mind. Depending on each horse’s temperament sometimes working cattle can get them excited, so we ensure they are properly prepared and warmed up with necessary trotting, cantering and flexions to have them physically and mentally prepared. A horse is a natural follower, so the easiest way to start is by following a cow. What you would need is 1 Cow, 1 horse and an arena of some sort. You don’t have to have a specifically bred cow horse to teach this idea to your horse; most horses will show interest in following a single cow. Teaching a horse to track or follow a cow is beneficial. If your goal is to compete in cow sports or for farm work, this is the first step of getting your horse to travel at all speeds in all gaits, teaching your horse to speed up and slow down whilst following a cow will get him comfortable with speed with out falling apart emotionally. The idea is to simply follow/track the cows any where in the arena, mirroring the cows speed, if it walks you walk, if it trots you trot, if it changes direction you change direction. You will direct your horse as much as necessary but try to do as little as possible. Turn your horse loose to the cow, give him the opportunity to learn on his own, only help him when necessary, don’t hang onto his mouth, give him his head with a nice loose rein, this will give him opportunity to hook onto a cow and become interested in the cow. Don’t be too concerned about driving the cow in this early stage just quietly direct your horse along the same track the cow is taking. In doing this you will be using your horse’s natural curiosity and building his confidence. Getting your horse to step into a herd of cattle , can be somewhat a scary , intimidating experience , in doing the follow the leader exercise with the cow leaving or moving away from the horse will give him a huge boost in confidence. The simple rules of follow the leader are do not over run the cow or get to close at this stage. About 1 cows body length behind is the closest you will get, and two cow lengths behind is the furtherest behind you will get. You need to be close enough to engage your horses curiosity. Pretty soon your horse will realise that his job at hand is to follow the cow at what ever speed the cow is traveling at, relaxed and happy.
by Kellie Stewart www.saltriverhorsemanship.com Photograph courtesy Jess Moran
Ian Clarke and Tassa Blue from Quirindi took home the Dominic and Susie Williams Trophy saddle for winning the Novice with 180 points. Ian having a great weekend, also split equal second and third with Terry Hall. Troy Plamer and Impressive Destiny taking out the Allerton Transport Open and Richard Northcott and Lassiter the Cinch Jeans Open Draft. Photographs courtesy Sue Hourigan
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P e n n i n g
Gunnedah’s Megan Hopkins and Tom Boy took out the NCCA Championship Campdraft. Megan purchased Tom Boy four years ago from the Dalby stock horse sale, Tom Boy was bred by Tom and Jane Williamson from Glen Innes, and is by their stallion One Moore th nd Playboy. Megan placed 8 and 2 in the Open Drafts to qualify for the NCCA Final, her points totalling 347.5 taking her to the lead. Megan 20 and Tom Boy only 8 years of age they also took out the Open Draft at the recent ABCRA event at Upper Horton over New Years. Coming in equal second and third to Megan was Cal Gibson from Bundarra riding Radiant, and Nigel Kable riding Ivory.
C a m p d r a f t / T e a m
NCCA CHAMPIONSHIP CAMPDRAFT
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C u t t i n g
What’s on calendar
Cutting
National Cutting Horse Association www.ncha.com.au
April 2011 Australian Quarter Horse Association Q11 ~ AELEC Indoor Arena, 8am start 2 QH Youth Cutting 3 QH Junior Horse Cutting 4 QH Senior Horse Cutting 5 Open Non Pro Cutting - $10,000 prize money
13th April
Local NCHA affiliate Clubs Peel Valley Cutting Club 02 67 771 116 0428 772 034
Walcha Cutting Club 02 67 787 327 0437 301 069
The NCHA has 53 affiliates that conduct shows, practice days and clinics throughout Australia. All levels of competition are catered for in over 200 shows throughout Australia culminating with the NCHA National FInals. HIgh Point Awards are highly prized and competitors travel many kilometres to achieve success.
C u t t i n g
The showcase of Cutting is the NCHA Futurity held every May/June at Tamworth NSW. The Futurity Show has grown into the richest three year old performance horse event in Australia. It incorporates the best cutting seen anywhere, the largest country/western rural trade display outside the metropolitan areas, restaurants,bars, big screen, live country country music entertainers, and the NCHA Sale which auctions some of the best bred performance horses in Australia
See page 20 for NCHA National Finals & Snaffle Bit Futurity results.... Photography by Ken Anderson Equine Photography, Tamworth
Coaches & Trainers FREE!...or advertise with your business card for as little as $45 per month!
Coaches & Trainers listings are
Simply contact: tdlhorsemag@live.com or 0409 987 152 18
Located on the Nundle road near Nemingha, Tamworth, NSW is a lovely farm with one intention in mind, to breed the best of the best in Paint cutting horses. Sunrise Cutting Horses and Hillside Farmstay, is owned and operated by Dawn O'Reilly and her Canadian partner Steve Darago. Dawn and Steve have built a fabulous farm and Dawn has diligently managed to use and import the best bloodlines in the cow horse industry to develop her broodmare band. Here is her story: Coloured Tobiano cutting horses are popular in the USA with many being successful in the large cutting events like the US futurity and the Super Stakes. Non Pro and youth cutting riders like to add a little ‘bling’ by competing on a pretty coloured cutter. In Australia however, coloured cowhorses are very thin on the ground. The Aussie Paint horse scene use to have some good types of working tobiano horses which were strengthened every now and then with an occasional imported stallion. The first overo patterned coloured horse imported into Australia was C-Notes Playboy in the 60’s and he created a great deal of interest in the Overo pattern and Halter horses in general. More Overos were imported like Diamond Jim Jr. and Halter showing took over as the “Paint” thing to do. Tobiano horses were now out of favour and the good Tobiano working mares were bred to Overo stallions until it became hard to find a working bred paint with the tobiano pattern. I was ‘country’ raised on the Liverpool plains, educated in Tamworth and did the usual Pony Club, Polocrosse, Campdrafting thing growing up, then moved to Canada in 1975 and worked in the cattle industry for 15 years, artificially inseminating cattle in Alberta, working in animal health in feedlots and pheasant hatcheries, and trialing stock dogs and judging dog trials in my spare time. When I returned home (with Steve and son Blaine) in 1990 due to my fathers ill health, I decided to rekindle my passion for ‘cow bred’ Quarter Horses and bought some mares to train and to breed. A few years later I became interested in finding a few tobiano mares similar to what I had seen a n d campdrafted when I was young. This took me about 4 years and I could only find a few tobianos with 75 percent of cattle working lines in their pedigrees. I sent them out to the best Quarter horse cutting stallions that were affordable and kept the coloured fillies to breed on. Cutting bred Quarter Horses in Australia have benefited from the importations of genetics of stallions that have won cutting futurities and sons of the best in the US. The most influential of these has been two Docs Oak sons. Docs Spinifex and Docs Freckled Oak. Daughters of these two stallions are now producing the cutting futurity winners here when bred to imported sons of Peptoboonsmal, Bob Acre Doc, High Brow Cat, and Dual Rey. I have had to create my own market again with the Paint cutters here as in the past there has been very little confidence in the ‘cow’ ability of a paint horse. My young mares that are in the broodmare band now are granddaughters of the imported stallions Peptos Stylish Oak, Acres Destiny, Smart Little Diablo, Docs Spinifex and Docs Freckles Oak, Sonitas Rondo and Freckles Jay Jay. With recently incorporating the genetics of High Brow Cat and Rey Dual and it is beginning to get exciting. Not only with the cutting ability of resulting foals, but to also include the anticipation of…. ‘will I get a flashy coloured tobiano’! We have some nice ones now that are getting the breakers excited and the first one that sold as a cutter placed third in his first novice cutting and has since become very competitive. The second one sold to a campdrafter and she won the first go round at the Roma incentive draft last year as a 3 yo. There are several others that will soon be old enough to compete in cow horse events in open company and we feel we are on the right track with our genetics with this third generation. Because cow bred genetics cross well into other specialist sports such as roping, barrel racing, reining and team penning, we are also using our mares to produce coloured foals that will be competitive in these sports as well when bred to imported reining and barrel racing stallions. We are lucky to be living in the Tamworth community as Tamworth has some of the best horse trainers available in Australia living right here. Also some very supportive horse clubs and horse groups that put on events for us local horse owners and I hope they continue to do so. With 12 well bred broodmares to breed each year, it is now more economical to own my own stallion, so recently negotiations have begun on a tobiano colt in the States to bring out to Australia. We are also importing frozen semen from the States in 2011 of the bay tobiano NCHA money earner Ten Colors. This stallion is gorgeous as well as talented. The long term goal of Sunrise Cutting Horses is to combine the rich bloodlines of the cutting Quarter Horses, bred for generations for stock work, with the colorful tobiano lines in the Paints that also go to strong performance backgrounds. I want to see horses in colourful coats showing the brains and athletic abilities that history says they have. Whether my foals compete in campdrafting, cutting, or reining arenas or earn a living on thousands of acres herding cattle, we aim for our horses to stand out in the crowd! Go to our website to see pictures and pedigrees of our mares at
www.sunrisecuttinghorses.com 19
...& Snaffle Bit Futurity results...Photography by Ken Anderson Equine Photography... SNAFFLE BIT TOP 3: 1. DIAGO ~ MICHEAL RAPLEY 144 2. WOMBRAMURRA SCATT ~ DANIEL MEODED 143.5 3. YULGILBAR AGASSI ROY ~ GLORIA MCCORMACK 143 $3,500 NOVICE 1. ONE MOORE DIVA ~ AARON WHEATLEY
OPEN TOP 3: 1. SPYDERMAN ~ TODD GRAHAM 148 2. OAK AND ASHES ~ JASON LEITCH 144.5 3. PRESTIGE CAT ~ PHIL DAWSON 143.5
145
Gloria McCormack ~ Yuligilbar Agassi Roy
NOVICE/NONPRO 1. SPOT DA PLAYBOY ~ LINCOLN VERAART 147
Micheal Rapley ~ Diago
OPEN NONPRO 1. LETHAL N STYLISH ~ IAN BUSH 146.5 $3,500 NONPRO 1. JA LETHAL STYLE ~ LACEY ELLIOTT 146 $10,000 NONPRO 1. JOANIES PLAYGIRL ~ FIONA TRANTER 145.5 $10,000 NOVICE 1. DARA FLETCH IN TIME ~ PHIL DAWSON 146.5 ROOKIES 1. PARRAWEENA GUNSMOKE ~ SEAN DALY 145
Lincoln Veraart ~ Spot Da Playboy
SNAFFLEBIT 1. CURLY LENA ~ LYNDA MACCALLUM 145.5 Daniel Meoded ~ Wombramurra Scatt
JUNIOR YOUTH 1. DOVES DATE WITH DESTINY ~ WYATT GRAY 147.5 SENIOR YOUTH 1. DOVES DATE WITH DESTINY ~ PHILLIP SMITH 144
Phil Dawson ~ Dara Fletch in Time
Lacey Elliott ~ Ja Leathal Style
Ian Bush ~ Lethal n Stylish
Tod Graham ~ Spyderman
Jason Leitch ~ Oak & Ashes
Aaron Wheatly ~ One Moore Diva
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Fiona Tranter ~ Joanies Playgirl
www.kyean.com
Advertise your business here from as little as
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What’s on calendar ~ D r e s s a g e
Dressage NSW www.dressagensw.com.au
Dressage
Tamworth Dressage Club www.tamworthdc.equestrian.org.au
April 2011 Armidale Riding Club O/A Prel - PSG Armidale Sue Mills 0428 688 216 sue.mills@rbsmorgans.com
10th April
Quirindi & District Equitation Club Inc Practise Day Werris Creek Judy McKenzie - 67 615 236 qdeci@live.com.au
10th April
Tamworth Dressage Club Official/Associate Competition Marjolyn Thomas 0428 671 338 tamworthdc@hotmail.com
17th April
May 2011 Quirindi & District Equitation Club Inc Practise Day Werris Creek Judy McKenzie - 67 615 236 qdeci@live.com.au
28th - 29th May
Surrounding areas
D r e s s a g e
2nd April Goulburn Dressage Club O/A/Ch Prel-GP Goulburn 14-Mar Jan Jeffery 4822-0654 www.goulburndressageclub.asn.au 3rd April Singleton Dressage Club O/A P-GP Singleton 9-Mar Carol Cairney 0409 743 718 www.singletondressageclub.org 3rd April Orana Equestrian Club T Dubbo Sharon Kirby 0428 638 101 www.oranaec.equestrian.org.au 3rd April Manning Valley Dressage & Hack Club O/A Prep-GP Taree 20-Mar Valerie Brodin 6557 7074 www.mvdhc.com 9/10 April DNSW Event O/A N-GP Clarendon 21-Mar Karen Lever 4576 7996 www.dressagensw.com.au 10th April National Capital Equestrian Club CRC- Canberra Liz Pugh 6287-1032 www.ncec.asn.au 10th April Sugarloaf Cobbity Eq Club A Prep-FEI Cobbitty Pam Wood 0417 677 638 www.scec-dressage.com 17th April Bowral Dressage Club O/A Bong Bong Toni Abela 0427 632 303 www.bowraldressage.com 17th April Dungog Dressage Club O/A Dungog 23-Mar Michelle Earnshaw 02 4987 0044 www.dungogdressageclub.webs.com 17th April Somersby Equestrian Club O/A Prep-Int 1 Il Cadore 27-Mar Kara Connally 0410 181 394 www.somersbyequestrianclub.org.au 22
This month we’ve got one for the kids! By Colleen Kelly and Kelly Tombs So you want to learn how to ride? There are many things to learn, and the learning never stops. Even when you have been riding for twenty years, you will still feel like you have more to learn. When you are getting started, there are a number of things that are key points for success. If you can get these basics under control, you will have a lifetime of enjoyable and most importantly SAFE riding ahead. If you have ever been to a trail riding school where you hire a horse for an hour, they have probably taught you to kick to go, pull the reins to stop, pull his head to go left, and pull his head to go right. When you have your own horse, or a horse you ride regularly, there is a much easier and kinder way to communicate to your horse what it is that you want. These basics are things you can work on and get better at no matter what level you ride. Even a Grand Prix dressage rider can improve their balance, and many include these types of exercises in their riding routine everyday. Lets look at the top ten points you can work on.
1. How to hold the reins How do you hold the reins? Do you hold them like you are playing a piano? Or like you are carrying a cup of hot chocolate – with your thumbs on top? The rein should be gripped between your thumb and the second finger, quite firmly, so it doesn’t slip through your hand. It should run down through your hand, and out between your little finger and your th 4 finger.
D r e s s a g e
SITTING PRETTY... Improve the way you sit with these fun points...
2. How to Turn Turning is actually much easier than you may realise. Horses have a really good sense of where you are, and are very much affected by little movements in your body. Try for yourself, walking at a nice march, then, rather than pulling on the rein to turn, just look where you want to go. If you want to turn right, look over to your right. Exaggerate it if you don’t get a response straight away, turning your shoulders as well. It’s very important not just to pull on that inside rein!
3.
How to sit
Why don’t you get one of your friends on the ground to help you out here! them to have a look at your belt and make sure it’s level to the ground.
Ask
It’s important that your tailbone feels pretty heavy. Leaning back or leaning forward can be quite dangerous. Have a look at your helmet, and make sure it looks level to the horizon.
4. Shoulders It’s so hard to know if your shoulders are level! So, let’s just forget about it! It’s much easier instead to concentrate on your elbows and make sure your elbows are level to the ground. It’s so much easier than trying to get your shoulders level.
D r e s s a g e
And…make sure your little fingers aren’t open and point out, or you could hurt them!
A great way to improve all of your upper body is to pretend to lift someone or something onto the horse. With the sport of vaulting (gymnastics on horseback) we lift other riders onto the horse, this is amazing for fixing your posture, especially your shoulders!
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D r e s s a g e
5.
Feet straight
Keeping your feet straight keeps the horse straight. Imagine you’ve got skis on your feet, and you need to keep them level and straight. Or, you can imagine that you’re a push bike rider, and that the stirrups need to be on the balls of your feet. This will become more and more important as you do advanced sideways work, as the advanced riders help their horse go sideways by pressing on that stirrup a little.
6.
Leaning forward
Leaning forward might be OK in jumping (so long as your heels are down), but if the horse stops suddenly you can get flung forward! A great tip is to learn to stand up in the stirrups. Standing up FULLY straight up and down, just like you would when you’re standing on the ground. And, make sure your toes don’t point out. If you’ve seen people point their toes out, then have a look at the top eventers. They sure don’t point their toes out, or their spurs would be on all the time. Turning your toes out makes you lean forward even more.
7. Level seat bones Are you a bit confused about where your seat bones are? You are not alone! If you know where your tailbone is, and you know where you pubic bone is, then there are also the other bones that you sit on, on the left and right. If you want to know if they are level, imagine you are wearing a belt. Is the belt level from back to front, and left and right. If your seat bones were torches, where would they point? Would they point down to the ground? They should! Or would they be shooting out behind you? When you are on a circle where would they point? Would they point down or would they be blinding the horse in the paddock next door? It is interesting once you become aware of these, how much you can improve your riding by fixing this alone.
8. Bent elbows Ever been told to keep your hands still? Well to help that happen you need to learn to have soft, loose elbows. A great exercise is to sometimes do rising trot holding the saddle. That will help your elbows move, and keep your hands still. But make sure you’re safe when you do it!
D r e s s a g e
9. See what your chest does to the horse Try this out…walk your horse around and drop your chest, sitting sort of “lazy and slumped”. You’ll soon feel the horse’s two front feet get heavier than the two back ones. Then raise your chest again, and you’ll feel the two back feet get heavier. It’s amazing! When weight is on the two front feet it’s called “on the forehand”. When weight is more on the back feet it’s called “engaged”. Engaged is good…on the forehand is bad. And you can so easily fix it by seeing how much your chest affects the horse!
10. Clean your teeth on one foot. Last by not least, and exercise you can do every night. Clean your teeth standing on one foot with the other foot out in front of you! It’s an exercise that’s come from the very best people in the world to help with your balance. And the trainer that trained the United States Dressage Federation Horse of the Year does it every morning and every night…so why not try it? Good Luck, and enjoy your riding. Come and watch some of the clinics coming up in your area! Colleen Kelly and Kelly Tombs are both Official Trainers with the International Society of Rider Biomechanics. Kelly is based on the Gold Coast and Colleen conducts clinics Worldwide. You can follow them on www.facebook.com/colleenkellyriderbiomechanics and www.facebook.com/postureseatbalance . Pics by Charlotte Reeves Photography www.charlottereeves.com.au
Colleen Kelly Rider Biomechanics 24
!ome"wn:
Tamworth NSW
#urrent loca$on: Moore Creek, Tamworth %hat age did you start riding/compe$ng? I have ridden basically my whole life. I had my fair share of naughty ponies as a child, but it wasn't until my mum bought me my first dressage horse at 11 that I really got serious about riding. I started to compete officially the following year.
%hy did you choose Dressage and why is it your favori& discipline? When I was about eight my mother, who by this time had grown very tired of pony club politics, gave me an ultimatum. It was to either come to dressage with her or nothing. So I suppose I started to 'specialise' in dressage younger than most riders do. I have been lucky enough to have always been connected with inspiring riders and trainers, and to see some amazing horse flesh. I think there is nothing more beautiful than a harmonious horse and rider, and I think that good dressage riders are often the most harmonious of all. There is something so rewarding about dressage training that makes it really addictive. It's not an easy sport, but I think the challenge of it all is half the fun.
D r e s s a g e
COMPETITOR PROFILE ,a+ina *-a.
Its hard to choose between my two current competition horses, Beltana Sandman and ARaymondo. I have had Sandy for almost four years, and it is because of him that I am so dressage mad today. He had barely been to a competition when we bought him as a green seven year old, and I have taken him from preparatory level to advanced. We've had a very bumpy road to get where we are now, but he has taught me so much and is such an honest and giving horse. He can do a lot of the tricks and is a really fun ride. I have owned Archie for just over a year. When we first saw him he was a green broken three year old, and we definitely weren't looking to buy another horse, but his talent and potential really shone through. One of my coaches, Carlos De Clearmaker, immediately said "this is the horse for you" and within a short time I had sold a pony to help fund the purchase and he was in our paddock! There is something very special about starting with a horse from the beginning, and knowing that I have solely trained him to where he is today is really satisfying. Archie is a pretty stunning horse. I have entered him in the 4 year old class at the Sydney CDI to be held at the end of April this year, and am so grateful to have such a talented horse who is capable of competing at such a prestigious event.
%hat does a 'pical day for you involve? I completed my HSC in 2010, so this year I am taking a Gap year to concentrate on the horses. On most days I will work three to four of our horses and then will do odd jobs around the farm. My mum and I run a pony stud so there is never a shortage of things to do! Just about every second weekend I will be off somewhere at a competition or clinic.
(iggest achievements)" da&? Winning my first official championship a couple of years ago on Sandy at novice level. Winning your first rug is always a big deal! Last year at the Armidale Dressage Festival, just two days after finishing the HSC and at his first official championship, Archie was the preliminary champion and placed first in the 4yo young horse qualifier and was overall champion young horse. I was also named champion young rider. I would have just been happy to go out and compete, so to come home with three rugs and a rosette was a pretty exciting bonus!
D r e s s a g e
%ho is your fav horse " da& and why?
*ny quick $ps or +icks you can pass on " our readers? Take your time! The basics are so important, and too often they are overlooked. Don't get me wrong, they are often the hardest to conquer, so take your time in training to develop your horse and you will benefit in the long run. Relaxation, rhythm, contact, impulsion. When you train these things properly, you can achieve almost anything!
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E n d u r a n c e
Photo courtesy Chris & Natalie McIntyre/Crik Hollow Endurance
What’s on calendar Endurance NSW Endurance Riders Association www.nswera.asn.au
April 2011 Manilla Muster Prenominate Gay Bonham (02) 6785 2055
22nd - 26th April
Surrounding areas April 2011 Tooraweenah Sonia Bonham (02) 6848 5345
10th April
Cedar Ridge Stables, Oberon Easter Carnival - Rides each day Courtney Freeman 0417 248 172
22nd - 25th April
May 2011
E n d u r a n c e
Terrific Tenterfield dual affiliated with QLD 100/80/40 Philippa Lillyman 02 6737 5438
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8th May
Mackinder Endurance Flex-ride Poley Saddle ONLY 8kg mounted! Available in small, medium & Large sizes.
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Mention this add & receive your saddle at the
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tdlhorsemag@live.com
HOW DO WE CREATE
ALL-TERRAIN BAREFEET? How do we turn a soft ( and mostly deformed and dysfunctional ) domestic foot into a rock-hard, fully functioning foot‌ Achieving barefoot performance is simple enough, but there is more to it than just pulling the shoes off, then jumping on and galloping off into the sunset! No sunset on a cloudy day!!
BEFORE
AFTER - only 6 weeks
Repeat - it is not just about the trim. Heal the damage 1.1 Establish correct form The first step is to return the feet to the correct parameters and keep them within a functional framework. This facilitates correct movement and resting posture. So what does this mythical healthy foot look like? Unfortunately we can't put up one picture that says it all because there is not one size that fits all. There is a huge amount of variation between breeds, environments, equestrian disciplines etc. In summary though, a functional foot is mostly related to the following parameters: . The landing gear (back half of the frog and heel platforms) is well developed. . Weight bearing surface consists of the inner wall, some sole and the majority of frog. . Outer wall and quarters and bars remain "passive" when standing on hard surfaces. . Three dimensional balance is dictated by sole plane. . Functional sole plane is left intact to protect internal structures. . Functional frog is left intact to protect internal structures. . Breakover balance is short with a third or less of weight bearing foot surface in front of the point of frog. Trims aint trims ! The question is always being asked: what's the difference between a farrier trim and a barefoot trim? This gets asked enough times to warrant a good answer! Firstly, we need to sort out some names. Barefoot trimming seems to stick because the aim is to ride the horses barefoot. Some people call it natural trimming or natural hoofcare, but the thing is there "aint nothing natural" about people riding horses and, besides, we don't want to be blindly following nature, we're only borrowing the good bits. As for 'farrier' trims, or 'pasture' trims, they're probably best grouped under the heading of traditional trimming. What's the difference? There shouldn't be a difference. A trim is either right or it is wrong. However, traditional trimming does not really consider the function of horses' feet. Balance yes, but function no. It is simply concerned with cutting a long foot short which translates to "standing up" the feet by leaving a bit of heel on and shortening the toe through the sole plane. As a consequence, a traditionally trimmed foot mostly has difficulty when asked to work unshod on rough ground. Please note that "bad" feet cant necessarily be immediately cut back to a physiologically correct form. They may need to be grown back. 1.2 Establish correct movement Use hoof boots Hoof boots are fast becoming the first choice for equine footwear. When used in conjunction with concussion pads, boots provide immediate comfort and therefore confidence, so a horse returns to correct heel first landing. The best thing about hoof boots is when a rider has finished with them, they are removed and the horse is able to be turned out barefoot with all the benefits of a barefoot lifestyle (and you don't need to get a new pair every six weeks!)
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E n d u r a n c e E n d u r a n c e 28
Kill infections It is quite common to have thrush infections in the frog due to dysfunctional, unhealthy feet, lack of movement and/or unsuitable living environment. A horse will not voluntarily impact painful thrushy frogs, but rather will incorrectly walk on its toes. Thrush infections need to be killed if present. This must not be overlooked. Use body work If a horse has a history of bad movement and bad posture, its muscles are most likely going to need some assistance to return to their form and function. A good equine body therapist may need to be on your payroll.
Before & after trim - Thrush
2. Condition the feet Conditioning is the missing link between domestic feet and wild feet. Conditioning is best done in the paddock, using time as leverage. This is achieved by providing a horse with an environment and lifestyle that is as close to 'natural' parameters as practical. Diet Feed a horse a horse's diet! Horses' evolved in a tough environment with poor quality herbage so their digestive systems are designed to extract the maximum amount of nutrition from their feed. Agricultural grasses and concentrated feeds are too rich for horses. It was never nature's intention to have horses mud fat all year round. Movement Horses are designed to move. Not only do they need as much space as possible, but they also need the desire to move, so - if possible - they should be kept together in herds. Paddock layout can be used to great effect in small areas - especially when using endless lane way systems or "donuts". Terrain Horses are generally adapted to hard, dry, tough country. If practical, they should have some exposure to these surfaces in their living quarters, especially in highly trafficked areas such as gateways and around shelters and watering points. The terrain on which a horse lives is the crux of conditioning. Terrain can provide constant exposure. If possible, a horse's living quarters should resemble the surfaces that you wish to ride on. If you want to ride your horse on soft surfaces, terrain in the living quarters is not vital, but if you want a horse with all- terrain feet so it can be ridden on tough ground, its living quarters should include some rough ground. To ride on rocks……a horse needs to live on rocks! Hoof maintenance Successful conditioning relies upon the feet receiving the correct stimulus. For this to occur, they need to be trimmed regularly enough to mimic the regime that they evolved in; that is a small trim regularly, about every 2 weeks. This is the secret to healthy feet because it keeps them fully functional at all times. Horse owners can learn the simple but very effective skill of hoof maintenance at one of our popular workshops.
To sum up conditioning… don't make life too easy for your horses! Article courtesy of Nicky & Andrew Bowe“The Barefoot Blacksmith”
www.barehoofcare.com Some photographs of barefoot horses in action!.....
www.dixonsmith.com.au
Artwork by MS EQUIPIX
www.barehoofcare.com
www.equissage.com.au 29
E v e n t i n g
What’s on calendar Eventing Eventing NSW www.eventingnsw.com.au Quirindi Eventing Inc www.quirindieventing.com Tamworth International Eventing www.tie.equestrian.org.au
April 2011 Hunter Trial (Cross country & Show Jump) Quirindi Eventing Inc Quirindi Showgrounds Jilly Thompson - 0437 474 766 quirindi_eventing@bigpond.com
21st April
North West Eventing clinic Quirindi Eventing Inc
19th -20th April
Quirindi Showgrounds Jilly Thompson - 0437 474 766 quirindi_eventing@bigpond.com
May 2011 Quirindi - Enc to 2* www.eventingnsw.com.au
28th - 29th May
E v e n t i n g
Surrounding areas April/May 2011 Please go to www.eventingnsw.com.au for information on the following events: Berrima CNC - Intro to 3* Sydney International WC Canberra Intro to 1* Camden Equestriad CIC - Intro to 3*
9th - 10th April 7th - 8th May 14th - 15th May 21st - 22nd May
Coaches & Trainers Norm Hindmarsh Southern Cross Warmbloods PH: 02 6767 1404 M: 0429 862 854 scwarmbloods@yahoo.com www.southerncrosswarmbloods.com.au
Sharmayne Spencer Heritage Hill Ph: 02 6760 5554 M: 0414 577 273 - Sharmayne M: 0447 328 608 info@heritagehillequine.com.au www.heritagehillequine.com.au
FREE!...or advertise with your business card for as little as $45 per month!
Coaches & Trainers listings are
Simply contact: tdlhorsemag@live.com or 0409 987 152 30
On the ground, your horse must have great manners. Your mare or gelding needs to be able to cross-tie, stand politely for the vet and farrier, load easily and tack up without problems. A horse that's unpredictable to work around in his stall, kicks or rears, is unacceptable. Under saddle your horse needs to be fairly athletic and have a reasonable aptitude for the three stages --dressage, cross country and stadium jumping -- that make eventing such a unique challenge.
Dressage: In addition to three good gaits if your horse takes both leads, steers well, accepts the bit well and maintains a consistent head and neck position with the front of his face just ahead of the vertical, he has the basic ingredients you need for entry-level dressage tests. Walk: The horse ought to be able to track up--that is, his hind foot should step ahead of the footprint of the forefoot on the same side--and have a steady, rhythmic 1-2-3-4 pace with no obvious irregularities. Trot: This gait needs to be a cadenced 1-2, 1-2 rhythm that covers the ground easily. When you ride him, he should be willing to maintain the trot with a minimal amount of pressure from your lower leg and heel. Canter: It needs to be a regular, clocklike threebeat stride. The horse should be able to hold himself in a canter with just a little lower leg.
Cross-country: This phase takes place in the countryside/out in the open; something new for riders who've never ridden outside a ring before. Make sure your horse is safe and sensible in the open. If you're trying out an event prospect for purchase, be sure to take him out for a trot and canter along trails, through the bush, around open fields, across rolling terrain and (if possible) through a stream. Likewise if your horse hasn't been out in the open a lot, do the same with him.
The horse you choose doesn't need to be super fit like a racehorse, but he does need to be conditioned enough to be able to slow-canter about a mile, walk for a few minutes, and then do the same again without being stressed.
Show jumping: At entry level jumping, you're more interested in riding a safe jumper than a clean jumper, so the elements you'll look for in jumping form are the things that most affect safety over fences. When you ride him over jumps, you're looking for regularity of pace. You want to be able to canter up to a small fence, jump it, and then canter away at the same speed. A horse who consistently falls behind your leg, or one who's always trying to rush through the bridle, isn't the best choice at this level. If your current horse has good gaits and is a safe jumper, you'll probably be able to get started in the sport with him. His dressage may be a work in progress for a while; but as it improves, you'll also experience a payback in the other phases. If you're shopping for your first event horse, where should you look? A young racetrack reject is not a suitable candidate; and if you're just learning the sport, don't take on a green horse. A better prospect is the experienced, older eventing horse that's out of a job because his rider has gone off to college. His vet bills may be higher, but he has a lot to teach you. Quarter Horses and older Warmbloods who've been around the block are also good choices for entry level eventing. If you like the challenges eventing offers, after 18 months or so you'll be ready to decide whether to keep your horse or sell him. If you both take to eventing, perhaps you'll stay together and continue refining your skills. As always, talk with your trainer about this decision and what options you have.
E v e n t i n g
To have a safe and enjoyable eventing experience, you need the right horse for the job. It starts with choosing the right horse to partner with for entry level eventing. If you already own a horse, these guidelines will help you decide whether he's a good fit for the sport. Your first event horse doesn't need to score a 10 at the trot in his dressage test or gallop forever. He needs to be fun to ride and able to carry you safely and comfortably around your first few entry-level events, both in and out of the ring. Don't worry about winning at this stage; just learn the sport and see if you really like it.
E v e n t i n g
Choosing your first Event horse..
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Tamworth International Eventing Inc Inaugural One Day Event 19-20 Feb Quirindi
E v e n t i n g
The weather might have been warm but so was the welcome at the Inaugural Tamworth International Eventing’s CNC One Star One Day Event. Over 170 riders from NSW and Queensland congregated on Quirindi’s eventing course to take part in the very first One Day Event run by the Tamworth club. Club president and ex-Eventing NSW president Sharmayne Spencer was very happy with the event, the number of competitors and most of all the increased profile of the new club in the equestrian world. “TIE is the newest eventing club in Australia. We are keen to promote eventing as a sport in the North West and particularly keen to see eventing take place at AELEC, as it is a fabulous venue. This even was a fundraiser to assist us in working towards the goal of a cross country course at AELEC.” The Australian Event Horse Centre CNC One Star was won in fine form by Stevie-Jade Shakoff, with Emma Mason winning the Main Event Photography Pre-Novice. Nikki Richardson from Scone won the Mitavite Preliminary A group and Eleanor Osbourne won the Furneys Preliminary B group. Marcia Williamson from the Upper Hunter won the Australian Independent Rural Introductory A and Dean Morris won Norbrook Pharmaceuticals Introductory B. Local girl Jess Sylvester won the Farmsafe Newcomers section. Thanks went out to More 4 Horses, Tamworth who were generous with their sponsorship, providing bell boots for all juniors and the prize for the volunteers raffle, as were Campbell’s Wholesales. With their first event a huge success, watch out for the next TIE event in Quirindi in August. It’s sure to be a great weekend. Tamworth International Eventing was started late last year with the aim of bringing International level eventing to Tamworth. Negotiations with Council to build a cross country coarse at AELEC have been successful, and the club has already held two training days last year to begin raising money towards the project.
E v e n t i n g
Stevie-jade Shakoff and Tickety Boo. Winners of the Australian Event Horse Centre CNC 1 *
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Tich Massey, an FEI International course designer will be on board to get the new course laid out and to an International level, offering a fresh, new course and more challenges for horse and rider. The aim is of having the course built by late 2012.
Tamworth International Eventing are happy to report they have had some businesses come on board with donations of material to build fences etc, and are keen to welcome more. They would love for businesses to get involved and “come along for the ride”. For those that don’t know, eventing is a test of horse and rider stamina, training and obedience, with the partnership taking part in dressage, cross country and showjumping. It is also one of the few Olympic disciplines where men and women compete against each other on a level playing field. With gold meddles in the last three Olympic Games (Barcelona, Atlanta and Sydney) and a silver in Beijing, Australia is recognised as a power force in Eventing. If all goes to plan we shall see some amazing International level Eventing right here in Tamworth. If you would like to learn more about the sport of Eventing, please go to http://www.eventingnsw.com.au/default.asp? Page=20197&MenuID=Media_@_Adverts/c20180/20295 and watch some awesome footage!
Nikki Richardson and Rudolf. Winners of the Mitavite Preliminary A.
Tamworth International Eventing - ODE - Quirindi
If you would like your event/training day covered by Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine/MS Equipix, phone Mel on 0409 987 152 or email tdlhorsemag@live.com
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WINNERS FOR MARCH!
FUNNY PHOTO COMP
1ST Place
Does my butt look big in this!!????
Winner receives a $50 gift voucher from their local Produce!!
2nd Place
CONGRATULATIONS!!! TO SUSAN SARGENT & her funny horse Mickey Pastime! Susan wins a $50 voucher from her local produce !
Hey Ma, are my teeth clean enough!???
Ummm, I said NO to the SWIM mum!!!
3rd Place
Thank you for all your entries, keep them coming! Next edition “Thrills & spills” Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine is running a photo competition each month. Entries close on the 12th of each month.... For our April Edition we will be taking entrants for “THRILLS & SPILLS”. Please email all photos to tdlhorsemag@live.com with your name and contact details and who took the photos. The top 3 photos will be displayed in the May edition and the winner receives a $50 voucher from their local produce!! This is an armature photo competition (no professional photographers please) See website for Photo Competition Rules.
www.tdlhorsemag.com.au April Edition
"Thrills & Spills" END OF YEAR GRAND FINAL The winner from each months competition will go into the end of year GRAND FINAL. There will be 2 Winners, 1 winner will be judged by the readers and the other winner will be judged by one of our AMAZING sponsors! Keep checking here for details..... GRAND FINAL WINNERS will be announced in our DEC/JAN edition along with the winning photos...... Great GRAND FINAL Prizes to be won........
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MOTHERS DAY COMPETITION YOUR MUM ON THE FRONT COVER OF Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine Explain in in 50 words or less why your mother is the best HORSE MUM ever! Winner will receive: A photo shoot from MS EQUIPIX (mum with horse)
(one of the photos will appear on the front cover of Tamworth & District local Horse Magazine) You & your mum will also receive a full disk of all photographs from the shoot & an A4 print of your favorite photograph for FREE!
A $75 voucher from Golden Horizons, Bridge St, Tamworth
To enter your Mother must live in the Tamworth & District area. Simply email your entries to tdlhorsemag@live.com
Artwork by MS EQUIPIX
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!!!!
SPIRITUAL CENTRE READINGS
MASSAGE
GIFTS
MASSAGE THERAPISTS Helen Allen - Relaxation & Remedial Massage, Lymphatic Drainage & Bodywork. Carole Wright - Remedial Massage Janita Ying - Acupressure Massage
For all bookings & information Phone: 02 6762 7162 or email: info@mandycoles.com.au Call in & see us at 105 Bridge St (cnr Bridge & Denison) Tamworth. Full details online at www.mandycoles.com.au 35
D r aw n Horse
What’s on calendar Horse Drawn Carriage Driving NSW www.carriagedrivingnsw.org.au
April 2011 TAMWORTH REGIONAL HORSE DRAWN CLUB Inc. 10th April 2011 Attunga Sport and Rec Grounds Fun challenge driving course, designed to test and expand the ability of both the driver and the horse, new members and spectators always welcome great bbq lunch and friendly atmosphere. Please contact Liz on 0427766726 for further enquires TAMWORTH REGIONAL HORSE DRAWN CLUB: CALENDAR DATES FOR THE YEAR 1st May Social drive Piallaway 9am
3rd/4th September Interclub weekend
5th June Mini Gymkhana Attunga 9am 3rd July Rally day Attunga
6th November Social drive venue TBA
Liverpool Range Harness Club (Quirindi) Peter Honeyman the-honeymans@bigpond.com 02 6767 1555
4th December Christmas get together
Horse
D r aw n
14th August Driving School T.B.C.
2nd October Rally day Attunga
Other local clubs
If you thought that carriage driving was just driving around the show ring looking pretty well think again, there is much more to carriage driving than you think. Carriage driving is a sport for the whole family; men and women compete equally on a level playing field in all disciplines of carriage driving. You can drive at a local level or strive to compete at an International Level; currently the Champion World Equestrian Games Horse Teams Driver is Australia’s ‘Boyd Excel’. Carriage driving disciplines include Show Driving, Combined Driving Event, Dressage, Endurance Driving, Pleasure Driving and Historical Displays, with this vast array of disciplines there is something for everyone and for all horses from minis to Clydesdales. Tamworth Regional Horse Drawn Club Inc is affiliated with the Australian Carriage Driving Society. Our club holds a day each month within the region; our members come from Tamworth, Gunnedah, Manilla, Uralla, Merriwa, Kelly’s Plains, Attunga, Walcha, Moonbi and all areas in between. We also join in with other clubs activities wether they be competition events or social drives. Once you join an ACDS club you can drive at all ACDS clubs events. Our club successfully hosted the Australian Carriage Driving Society’s NSW Show Driving Championships in October 2010. We are looking forward to hosting the ACDS NSW General Meeting later in the year. For further information please feel free to contact the club secretary Elizabeth O’Brien on 0427766726 or myeyor@yahoo.com.au Photos courtesy of Andara Photography, Jessica Barlow, Ralph Newman Photography.
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Combined Driving
Aspects of DRIVING
Combined driving is carriage driving's answer to eventing. It is comprised of three sections: dressage, the marathon (including roads and tracks and obstacles (in lieu of jumps!)) and cones (the equivalent of showjumping). It can take place over 1, 2 or 3 days and can be outdoors or indoors. Competition A - Presentation (A1) and Dressage (A2) In Presentation the whole turnout, horse, vehicle, harness, driver and groom, is judged. Driven Dressage, is similar to ridden dressage, with specific movements performed in an arena. Tests require the driver to display control through voice, whip and reins, and the horses must display obedience, impulsion and correct paces. Competition B - The Marathon or Cross Country Many consider this is the most exciting phase of the overall competition. Horses need to be fit to cover the distance of up to 22km in the required time. The course is divided into five timed sections A - E, and includes two walks (Secs. B & D) of approx. 1km and a fast trot section (C). Each height class has different times for each section and time penalties may be incurred. Section E includes up to 8 man-made or natural obstacles (including water) which are gated using letters from A-F and can be driven in various ways, within a set time, as long as the gates are passed through in order. Competition C - Cone Driving The Cone Driving is designed to test the fitness, obedience and suppleness of the horse or pony after the rigours of the Marathon along with the skill of the driver.
Showing
Most people would have seen the harness events at their local show; Show driving is where the beautifully turned out horses wearing their meticulously cleaned harness pull their immaculate vehicles. Just as there are many different saddle classes so too are there many different harness classes. The classes are divided according to either Horse/ Pony Height, Breed, Vehicle, Combination - single or multiple, Open or Novice status and Driver. Vehicles frequently seen in the show ring include Viceroys, Buggies and Landaus (4 wheeled), Jinkers or Gigs (2 wheeled). Many are original vehicles painstakingly researched and restored. The Delivery or Tradesman's classes are becoming increasingly popular. Beautifully restored vehicles, pulled by stately Clydesdales, Percherons or Friesians, or derivatives, with bells jangling, often generate the most interest, especially amongst the old timers. In a world of virtual reality these are living reminders of our history as it is easy to imagine the streets filled with such vehicles and horses at their work.
Pleasure/Endurance/Historical A Pleasure drive can be simply a drive down a country lane, rail trails, a picnic or campfire shared with like minded company held on one day, a weekend or even for a week in public reserves or private property. A great way to see the countryside, socialise, swap tips and educate a horse. Other activities which you can enjoy under the Pleasure driving banner include navigation drives, endurance driving and good old fashioned fun days where club members get together for a great social event. You can participate in Park which give you the opportunity to dress up and enjoy wonderful venues around Victoria at a social outing. These can be described as a "Show on the move". Usually held in scenic surrounds such as Botanical Gardens or historical parks and gardens, a Private drive was originally devised as a gentle competition for "private" vehicles (ie. Nontradesman). Events may cater for several classes and always include at least one Period Turnout class. Vehicles may vary greatly from original through to the modern and any type of horse from the miniature to Clydesdale may be entered. The event is judged at the halt as a turnout and then entrants set off on a leisurely trot around the grounds for several kilometres. Whilst out on the course more judging takes place, this time including the manners of the horse and the skill of the driver or "whip".
Dressage The object of the dressage test is to judge the freedom, regularity of pace, harmony, impulsion, suppleness, lightness, ease of movement and correct bending of horses and ponies on the move. Dressage is basic training The competitors are also judged on their style, accuracy and general command of their horse(s) and on the presentation of the turnout. The competition may be conducted as part of a CDE or as a stand-alone competition. Set movements and prescribed paces are required to be performed in a defined arena. Driven Dressage arenas measure 100m x 40m (usually Open and Multiple but not exclusively) or 80m x 40m (usually Novice but not exclusively) Photos courtesy of Andara Photography, Jessica Barlow, Ralph Newman Photography.
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H o r s e m a n s h i p Na t u r a l
What’s on calendar Natural horsemanship New England Natural Horsemanship Club http://web.me.com/newenglandhorseclub/ newenglandhorseclub/Welcome.html Horse Agility Australia www.horseagility.com.au Parelli www.parellinaturalhorsetraining.com
April 2011 New England NH Club Social Day, Rocky river Annette Ryan - Secretary annetteis@bigpond.com.au
Mel Fleming - see coaches & Trainers listing for contact info 'Alchemy Place' Moonbi, NSW 5 day Easter Camp CONNECTING WITH HORSES & RIDING WITH SYNCHRONICITY Intermediate Level
27th April
22nd- 26th April
Steve Byrne - see coaches & Trainers listing for contact info 9th -11th April Macksville Showground Fri 8th : HMS towards Cow working + mechanical Cow 9th / 10th : Cow Working16,17 April : Raymond Terrace NSW Raymond Terrace RDA 16th / 17th April Mornings : Introductory towards Intermediate 16th / 17th April Afternoon: Intermediate towards Advanced Tamworth NSW “Mount Erin” 22-24 April 22th : Horsemanship 23th / 24th : Cow Working
Coaches & Trainers Listings Mel Fleming - Moonbi www.melfleming.com.au mel@melfleming.com.au 0428 385 745 02 6760 5519
Steve Byrne - Dungowan
www.stevebyrne.com.au 0427 190 271 (02) 67 694 326
FREE!...or advertise with your business card for as little as $45 per month!
Coaches & Trainers listings are
Simply contact: tdlhorsemag@live.com or 0409 987 152 38
WHAT KINDS OF THINGS CAN YOU TEACH WITH THE CLICKER? Anything you want. From basic manners to advanced upper level performance, anytime you need a clear "yes" answer signal the clicker can help out your training. For starters go down a checklist of basic stable manners. Does your horse lead well? Will he walk right onto a trailer? Does he ground tie? Does he take his bridle easily? Will he stand quietly on cross ties? Is he good for grooming and saddling? Will he accept clippers, pick his feet up for cleaning, etc, etc. If the answer to any of those questions is no, try a little clicker training. Remember Clicker training does not replace any training method that you might be currently using with your horse. It is simply a communication tool. Clicker training refers to a new method of teaching behavior using a "yes" signal or conditioned reinforcer, to tell the horse precisely when it has done something right. The "click" in clicker training refers to a small plastic noisemaker, similar to a child's toy cricket. CLICKER ORIGINS Clicker training began with dolphin training. Thirty plus years ago when dolphins were first put on display in marine aquariums, people had no idea how to train them. Just imagine what you would do if you had to teach a dolphin to jump through a hoop on command. None of the traditional training methods people knew thirty years ago seemed to apply to an animal that could just swim away. That training depended too much on restraints and punishment, things you just can't use with dolphins. The solution was to shape behavior using positive reinforcement, but even that presented a problem. How do you tell a dolphin that you liked what it just did? You can throw a fish in the water, but by the time it finds it, the reward won't have any connection to the behavior you were trying to reinforce. This problem was solved by introducing a high frequency whistle. The trainers blew a whistle just before they threw the fish into the water. The dolphins very quickly learned to expect a fish every time they heard the whistle. The next step was to link the whistle to behavior. For example, if you lower a hoop into the water and blow the whistle only when the dolphin is swimming near that hoop, pretty soon the dolphin will be spending the majority of its time orienting around the hoop. This is a beginning step towards learning that behavior leads to whistle leads to fish. Once that connection is made, you are well on the way to training very complex behaviors.
INTRODUCING YOUR HORSE TO A CLICKER: TARGETING There are many different ways you can do this, but it is generally suggested that you introduce the clicker by teaching the horse to touch a target. Small orange cones, for example (the kind you buy, as lane markers for sporting events) are a good idea. You can also use lids off of supplement cans, cider jugs, anything that's handy and horse safe. Start with targeting because it's a very simple game, plus it's not part of the horse's normal training. You find a safe place for you and your horse. Then you hold a cone, or some other object up in front of the horse. Horses tend to be curious about such things. They'll sniff towards the cone. The instant the horse bumps the cone click and treat. If your horse won’t bump the cone, then break the behavior down, so when your horse sniffs or looks towards the cone, click and treat and progress from there. The horse may start mugging your hands as soon as it realizes that food is involved. If they get too pushy, just step back out of range. The mugging is part of the learning process, and the key is not to get distracted by it. Keep yourself safe, but let the horse explore. He's going to discover that going directly to the vending machine never earns him treats. Help your horse to be successful.
The whistle is a bridging signal (or secondary reinforcer to use the more technical term). It gives the animal very clear and precise information. It acts as a "right answer cue". It says to the animal, the behavior you just did will get you a treat. CLICK! WHY CLICKER TRAINING? The most important point to make here is that we can always benefit by establishing a better relationship with our horses. Clicker training does not replace any training method that you might be currently using with your horse. It is simply a communication tool. From early psychological research in animal behavior it was discovered that animals respond promptly to food rewards. This is not to say that forever more we will need to treat our horses with food each time we wish to
Na t u r a l
communicate “well done”. What it means simply, is that in introduce the clicker to our horses, your horse will learn the connection between the clicker sound and the communication of “yes” much more quickly. Later, other tools can take on the properties of food
H o r s e m a n s h i p
The power of a CLICK!
Start with targeting because it's a very simple game, plus it's not part of the horse's normal training. You find a safe place for you and your horse. 39
H o r s e m a n s h i p Na t u r a l 40
If your horse swings his head away to look at something, take advantage of that to position the cone between the horse's head and your body. He'll have to bump into it on his way back to mugging you. When he happens again and again, he's suddenly going to realize that bumping the cone gets you, the vending machine, to work! You can almost see the light bulb go on. As many times as we've watched this process, it's still a magical moment when the horse realizes that HE'S in control, that he can make ME click. All he has to do is bump the cone. He's also learning something else that's important. He's learning that he NEVER gets clicked for sniffing my fingers, pulling on my coat, or bumping me. If you have a mouthy horse, clicker training is a great way to teach good manners. FINDING THE RIGHT REWARD The clicker is a bridging signal. It links a desired behavior to a reward. The reward is not what WE say the animal should want. A reward is anything the ANIMAL finds reinforcing. So first we have to find things the HORSE wants. So what do horses like? Both kicking up their heels, and standing still belong on the list, as does a vigorous massage, time with a favorite pasture mate, or a chance to roll in a sand pit. The problem with this list is obvious. It's hard to use these things in a training session. You can't let your horse drop and roll every time he gives you a right answer. Timing is another factor in choosing a suitable reward. Without a bridging signal rewards need to be delivered exactly when the behavior occurs. That way the horse can clearly mark what it was doing and repeat it again for another reward. Delays between behavior and reward can lead to confusion. You think you're rewarding your horse for dropping his head. He thinks it's for swishing a fly with his tail. So how do you resolve the problem? Very simply: You introduce a secondary reinforcer. Food, or a pat on the neck is the primary reinforcer. It's the thing the horse wants. The secondary reinforcer, or bridging signal as it is also called, is a conditioned signal, which becomes linked to rewards. It tells the horse, "You are about to get a treat." Without a bridging signal food is hard to use with horses. They get too eager, and it becomes more of a distraction than a help. But WITH a bridging signal you can channel that eagerness into performance. Food as a reward works wonderfully. It's convenient for the rider, and highly motivating to the horse. Experienced clicker trainers such as Alexandra Kurland say that they have been astounded by the results. Everything from basic manners to upper level performance can be taught with the clicker. Clicker training piggybacks beautifully onto other training systems. It's not a substitute for, already know. The clear "yes" answer of the clicker accelerates the learning curve and creates eager, happy horses. VA RY I N G T H E REINFORCER So what can you use for treats? Grain doled out a teaspoon at a time, carrots, breakfast cereal, chopped up apples, sugar cubes, peppermints, animal crackers, bread . . . really anything that the horse enjoys and that's safe for it to eat will work. The important point here is that you want to vary your reinforcer. You can give your horse important information just by changing your treat. Reserve the special treats for those for exceptional moments. When the peppermints come out, for example, they know they've done something particularly wonderful, and they make an extra effort the next time. SHAPING BEHAVIOR IN SMALL STEPS In shaping you take a small tendency reinforcing that behavior you gradually shift it towards a more complex behavior. Dolphin training is the easiest way to view this. You have a dolphin swimming in a tank. You want it to swim through a hoop you have hung in the middle of the tank, so you blow a whistle and throw it a fish every time it turns in the direction of the hoop. By gradually delaying the swim
through the hoop. This is shaping in its pure form, but it is not the only way to use the clicker. The clicker is a BRIDGING signal. It behavior I wanted. Now I'm going to give you a reward." It doesn't say anything about how that behavior was created in the first place. You can wait for the behavior to occur, or you can use shortcuts that trigger the response you want. For example, in dog training, you don't to just wait for a puppy to sit down and then click it. You lure the behavior by holding a bit of food above the puppy's head. When the puppy looks up, his haunches sit down. Click! He gets a treat. The food lure is very quickly faded out, and what you are left with is a hand signal that triggers the sit. The clicker is a BRIDGING signal. It says "yes! That's exactly the behavior I wanted. Now I'm going to give you a reward." I have since discovered it is an incredibly useful tool that can be applied to a wide variety of situations, including trailer loading, ground tying, leading, obstacle training, and lateral work. Targeting isn't the only shortcut I can use. In horse training we use pressure to trigger the responses we want. For example, I can ask my horse to back up by tapping his front legs with a whip. As soon as he shifts his weight even a little, I'll stop tapping. He'll quickly learn that the way to avoid the tapping is to back up. By definition I'm using a negative reinforcer: an uncomfortable or painful stimulus, which the animal can avoid by changing its behavior. Negative reinforcers make great "shaping shortcuts", especially when you add the right answer cue of the clicker to them. With the clicker the tap becomes information the horse uses to get to his reinforcement faster. It tells him what we want. "Move away from here, and I'll click you." The horse learns that the whip is not there to intimidate him, but to give him clues to understanding us. With the clicker negative reinforcers lose their adversarial associations and become instead information providers. The backing exercise is very important in the early stages of clicker training. I'm telling the horse that the best way to get the vending machine to work is by stepping away from it. Mugging me for treats won't get it anything. If you have a pushy horse, this is a super way to teach good manners. Can you teach backing without the clicker? Of course you can, but, if you want your horse to understand how to use the clicker for more complex tasks, you have to start with simple exercises. Most horses can benefit from a review of ground manners, so this is a great opportunity to improve your horse's leading skills, and at the same time introduce him to a new tool.
This article was kindly provided by Judy Ryder-Duffy & Alexander Kurland; author of "CLICKER TRAINING FOR YOUR HORSE" . You can purchase Alex’s books by printing off the order form at http://www.crisny.org/users/kurlanda& mailing it to; Alexandra Kurland. 110 Salisbury Rd Delmar, NY 12054 USA. The Australian Clicker Connection Website can be found at http:// www.equilog.com.au/clicker.htm& Clickers can be purchased in Australia through Equilog (ph) 02 49 986095. http://www.equilog.com.au.
Artwork by MS EQUIPIX
The Australian Clicker Connection “For all of your clicker training needs!” ONLINE STORE! DVDS BOOKS CLICKERS TRAINING BUMBAGS/TREAT BAGS... and more!... Just visit...
www.equilog.com.au Steering you in the right direction Are you looking for an experienced horseman to show you the ropes or have you got a problem you just can’t iron out of your horse? Greendale Park Equine Training and Learning Centre (TLC) is the solution to all your problems. Proprietor Allan Young is based near Aberdeen and with more than 40 years experience of breeding, training and competing on horses he provides a wealth of knowledge for all riders. Greendale Park Equine TLC caters for riders from beginner to advanced and offers training in all aspects of horse preparation from handling a foal to breaking in and competing in events including pony club, stock horse events, team penning, campdraft or just riding for fun. Allan said he will teach clients to train their own horse or will offer all standards of horses so riders can experience the feel of riding a trained horse
or a first time kids pony. “I would like to help people train their horse so they will be a joy to be around and a joy to ride. “I like to see people achieve their goals and will show clients how to fix problems and put a solid foundation on their horses so they finish with a horse that will do as they ask.” At Greendale Park Equine TLC you can also learn how to care for your horse’s feet, teeth and body conditions including chiropractic. One-on-one lessons or group clinics at Greendale Park’s learning facilities are available or Allan can coach you at the venue of your choice. Greendale Park Equine TLC also offers breaking and training for your horse. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your horse’s future, contact Allan on 0428 431 147 or email aj.young@bigpond.net.au
Greendale Park TLC
Equine Training & Learning Centre
Steering you in the right direction ✓ Teaching you to train your own horse ✓ Pony Club, Stockhorse Events, Team Penning, ✓ Campdraft or just riding for fun ✓ Available for one on one lessons or group clinics - my facilities or will travel to your chosen venue.
2024586
Advertising Feature
www.everythingequinetamworth.com.au
✓ Beginners to Advanced
Phone Allan Young on 0428 431 147 or email aj.young@bigpond.net.au to discuss any aspects of your horses’ future.
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What’s on calendar Polo/Polocrosse/Horseball
NSW Polocrosse Association www.nswpolocrosse.com.au NSW Polo Association www.australianpolo.com.au
Australian Horseball Association www.horseball.com.au
NSW POLOCROSSE ~ April/May 2011 2-3 April
SH ZONE@ Bungendore
8-9
UPPER HUNTER (MUSWELLBROOK) SHOW
9-10
GUYRA
16-17
BRAIDWOOD WD COACHING
15-16-17
BARASTOC INTERSTATE SERIES @ WARWICK
22 -23
CENTRAL COAST, EUROCOAST
23-24-25
AUSTRALIAN JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - ALBURY
24-27
SYDNEY SHOW (Dates 24-27 April now confirmed)
30 Apr - 1 May
INVERELL, BUNGENDORE
7-8
ORANGE, MUSWELLBROOK, MILTON, WAGGA WAGGA
14-15
QUIRINDI, YASS, TUMBARUMBA
21-22
MERRIWA, WARIALDA, CANBERRA
28-29
CASSILIS, HALL, ALBURY @ HOLBROOK
NSW POLO ~ April 2011 1-3
Kurri Burri 12, 6, 2 & 0 Goal, Powells Lane, Richmond Lowlands on 31st March - 3rd April
2-3
Garangula/Gunalong Tournament, 12 goal
2-3
Scone Polo Club League
9-10
Scone Polo Club League
9-10
Killarney 6, 2 & 0 Goal Tournament
9-10
Garangula/Gunalong Tournament, 12 goal
16-17
Winten Cup at Windsor Polo Club (6, 2 & 0 goal)
16-17
Scone Polo Club League
16-17
Jemalong Tournament, 12 goal
20-26
Polo at the Royal Easter Show, on 20, 21, 22, 23 & 26th, see www.eastershow.com.au for details
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NSWPA Coaching Clinic, at Gundalong, all players
22-25
Morton Cup, 12 goal tournament, at Windsor Polo Club cnr Triangle Lane & Old Kurrajong Rd, Richmond
23-24
Gundalong Annual Tournament, Galong
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NSWPA Clinic, all players, near Millamolong
30
Scone Polo Club Peisley Trophy
30
Town & Country Polo Club 12, 6, 2 & 0 Goal Tournament, Old Kurrajong Road, Richmond
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Millamolong Annual Tournament , see www.millamolong.com for directions
FOR SALE Reg Stock Horse gelding Experienced PoloX, very handy on the field. Has also competed successfully at High School expo's, Pony Cub & Team Penning. Good kind nature would suit adult or novice rider. Contact: 0437715795
bell.1268@bigpond.com
Polocrosse
Polocrosse was developed in Australia in 1938 by Mr and Mrs Edward Hirst of Sydney . It was inspired by an indoor exercise seen in England which used old polo sticks with squash racquet heads and a shallow string net to replace the mallet on the end of the stick. From the outset it was intended to be a game which allowed the inexpensive enjoyment of one’s horse. Hence the rule of one horse one player and the playing of alternate chukkas. The whole team of six could travel in one cattle truck as petrol was rationed and people did not travel far in 1945. Trains and single floats were also a popular way to transport horses to carnivals during the early days. Today Polocrosse in Australia has over 6,000 players nationally, and is played in 8 countries. It is a combination of polo, lacrosse and netball. It is played on horseback, each rider using a cane stick, made up of a polo-stick shaft to which is attached a squash racquet type head with a loose twisted-thread net in which the ball is carried. The ball is made of thickskinned sponge rubber and is 100mm-130mm in diameter. Each player is permitted only one horse in a tournament. Polocrosse is unique in its involvement of the whole family. Children start playing from as young as 6 years, and there are many players who are in their 60’s – so it is not uncommon to have children, parents and grandparents playing, and to have brothers, sisters, Mums and Dads all in the one team! In this way Polocrosse becomes a shared passion of the whole family, and is a valued pursuit in binding families together and conveying shared values. The only downside to this is that it can be difficult for parents to accept the superior Polocrosse skills and ability of your 12 year old son or daughter, or on the other side of the coin, the superiority of a 60 year old over a strapping teenager a third his age! A team consists of six players, divided into two sections of three. These sections play alternate chukkas of six to eight minutes each, with normally four chukkas comprising a match although at times up to eight chukkas are played. The three players in each section are numbered – No. 1 is the attack, or goal scorer, No 2 is the centre, and No 3 is the defense. The playing field is 146.5 m long and 55m wide, with goal posts at each end. Players pick up the ball from the ground, pass the ball, bounce the ball and carry the ball in endeavoring to take it into their scoring area and scoring a goal. Horses are generally up to 15.2 hands. Australian Stock Horses and thoroughbreds are commonly used. The game requires the horse to be able to stop and turn extremely fast, to accelerate quickly, to have stamina and to push and ride-off other horses. A high priority has always been given to the safety of both horses and players, and this is ensured through a well organised system of umpiring. Umpires are graded on their ability for practical application of the rules of the game.
HORSEBALL ~ The basic rules Photographs taken at a recent Horseball training day, Tamworth Showgrounds. For more training dates/Horseball events simply contact the Australian Horseball Association - australianhorseball@gmail.com
The basic rules involve a team of 4 players (plus replacements offside if necessary) making a minimum of 3 passes between 3 different players of their team and then scoring a goal through a hoop shaped vertical goal. The opposing team can defend by either preventing them from being able to shoot by pushing opponents out of the playing area using their horse's weight or have the possibility to get alongside the players and pull the ball from their hands. In this situation, the rules are that both riders have to remain seated in the saddle and the first to get pulled out of their saddle loses a penalty. On the other hand, if both stay seated then if the defender manages to keep hold of the ball for more than 10 seconds then their teams earns a penalty. Simple tactics of the game involve crossing paths of players in a same team as this method insures that the opposing team send all their defense to one side of the game whilst another player comes up from behind and gets a clear way through the cleared space. Players can also choose to return to their side if they feel an attack is failing and can 'cross' each other, but only if they are players of the same team. This method is quite often used because if a defender is trying to get the ball they usually follow the player with the ball and are therefore going to end up coming face to face with the 3rd player. That however, is strictly forbidden, as in the past head on collisions between galloping horses and riders proved fatal. When the ball is dropped or falls on the ground, anyone can pick it up so long as they are going in the same way as the way the game was going when the ball was dropped. This is to avoid any riders coming head on whilst someone is picking up, as the player picking up would get hit by the oncoming horse and rider. The rules for pick up are simple; the horse has to be galloping (or at a trot when the teams are of a much younger category, usually when the players are less than 13 years of age) when picking up the ball, whilst stopping is forbidden as it damages the horse's back and usually means that the player has less of a swing to pull themselves back up, which can often result in falling due to losing a stirrup.
P o l o / P o l o c r o s s e / H o r s eb a l l
A bit about
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Contacts Riding groups/Pony club Pony Club NSW www.pcansw.org.au CURRABUBULA PONY CLUB Currabubula Rec Grounds Judith Ann Alston - (02) 6744 5714 justjude@bigpond.com BENDEMEER PONY CLUB Rodeo recreation grounds Faith Dixon - 02 6769 6530 www.bendemeerpc.pcansw.org.au GUNNEDAH PONY CLUB Gunnedah Show Grounds Donna Hall - (02) 6742 5633 gdhpcsec@yahoo.com KOOTINGAL PONY CLUB Moonbi Sports Grounds Joanne Roberts - 02 6760 3249 joroberts@activ8.net.au www.kootingal.pcansw.org.au ARMIDALE RIDING CLUB INC
02 6771 5322 sue.mills@rbsmorgans.com www.armidalerc.equestrian.org.au
MANILLA PONY CLUB Manilla Show Grounds Colin Donlan - 02 6785 7365 NUNDLE PONY CLUB Taylors Lane Wally Whatmore – 0267691692 glenalmond@bigpond.com QUIRINDI PONY CLUB Quirindi Show Grounds Rachel Hope Coward - Secretary superiormobilehair@yahoo.com.au TAMWORTH PONY CLUB Cnr Bournes Lane & Meldorn Lane Jim Kolokotas - 02 6760 8172 kolokotas@optusnet.com.au QUIRINDI & DISTRICT EQUITATION CLUB INC
(02) 6767 0284 qdeci@live.com.au www.quirindiec.equestrian.org.au
MANILLA EQUINE SPORTING ASSOCIATION INC Vanessa Gibson - 0428 782 973 Alison McCarthy - 0447 437 876
Surrounding areas BARADINE PONY CLUB Baradine Showground Megan Worrell - 02 6823 5172 megan.worrell@gmanil.com BARRABA PONY CLUB Barraba Showgrounds Sonia Simpson - 02 6783 1382 soniasimpson1@bigpond.com
BOGGABRI PONY CLUB Boggabri Show Ground Gunnedah Road Anne Keys (02) 6743 4732 denmarkstud@bigpond.com
10th April
If you would like your Riding/Pony Club Events or Training days listed here then please don’t hesitate to contact Mel on 0409 987 1452 or email tdlhorsemag@live.com. We are more than happy to help!
FOR SALE ~All rounders $5,500 neg
WARMBLOOD MARE
7yr old brown mare. 16.2hh By WF Fabious (World Cup Showjumper) She is showing great potential even though late starter. Ready to go on with. MUST SELL! 0409 815 184 Tamworth
Beta View Gunfire 3yr old filly, Approx 14.2hh. Handled but unbroken. Showing great potential. Sire: Boonderabbi Rivogun (by Beta View Gunfire) Dam: Boette rego no 119466. MUST SELL!! 0 0409 815 184 Tamworth 1,80
$
tdlhorsemag@live.com
neg
c l u b
Manilla Equine Sporting Association Inc Manilla Showgrounds Vanessa Gibson - 0428 782 973
g r o u p s / P o n y
April 2011
R i d i n g
Whats on calendar Riding groups/Pony club
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All about VAULTING
Equestrian vaulting is most often described as gymnastics and dance on horseback, and like these disciplines, it can be practiced as a non-competitive art or as a competitive sport. It is open to males and females. It is one of ten equestrian disciplines recognized by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports, along with: dressage, combined driving, endurance riding, eventing, horseball, paraequestrian, reining, and show jumping. Therapeutic or Interactive Vaulting is also used as an activity for children and adults who may have balance, attention, gross motor skill, or social deficits. Vaulting has many enthusiasts worldwide, but particularly in Germany, where it is often practiced as part of basic equestrian training. The German vaulting squads are highly ranked and very competitive on the world stage. Vaulting is also especially well established in Switzerland and France (where it is known as Voltige), Austria, Sweden, the UK, the United States, and the Netherlands. Enthusiasm for the art is also growing in Brazil, Australia, and in South Africa.
HISTORY Some trace the origins of vaulting to Roman games, including acrobatic displays on cantering horses. Others see roots in the bull dancers of ancient Crete. In either case, people have been performing acrobatic and dancelike movements on the backs of moving horses for more than 2,000 years. The first known depiction of vaulting was from stone painting, dated at around 1500 BC, of Scandinavian riders standing on horses. Renaissance and Middle Ages history include numerous references to vaulting or similar activities, and it seems apparent that present-day gymnastics performed on the "vaulting horse" was developed from vaulting - allowing concentration on the gymnastics without the horse. The present name of the art comes from the French "La Voltige," which it acquired during the Renaissance, when it was a form of riding drill and agility exercise for knights and noblemen, and also used as a symbol of status. Vaulting was later used to help cavalry troops increase their abilities on the horse, and the troops would begin by working on a wooden horse before advancing to a live, moving mount. Modern vaulting was developed in post-war Germany as part of set of exercises for improving general riding. Cavalry officers introduced the art at the 1920 Olympic Games in Antwerp as "Artistic Riding," although the art was not continued in the Games. Vaulting is still much more popular in Europe, where it is still included in dressage training, than it is in other parts of the world, though vaulting is a growing art in Australia, Brazil, Canada, and the United States. In 1983, vaulting became one of the disciplines recognized by the Fédération équestre internationale (FEI), and the first FEI World Vaulting Championships were held in Switzerland in 1986. It was later demonstrated as an art at the 1996 Atlanta Games and at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, USA. More recently, the popular equestrian show Cavalia and other similar shows have introduced vaulting to many new audiences worldwide.
MOVEMENTS Vaulters perform various movements on the back of the horse. Novice and beginning vaulters may perform at the walk or the trot while higher level vaulters perform at the c a n t e r. T h e r e a r e s i x compulsory exercises in the individual competition that must be performed without dismounting: Basic seat, Flag, Mill, Scissors, Stand and Flank. The compulsories are performed in succession in the above order, without pause or dismounts. In addition, the mount onto the horse is also scored. At the walk, the Ground Jump is omitted. In the team competition, each vaulter performs the required movements, one following the other. Each team member will do the first three moves and then dismount, and after everyone has done the first three, the team will get back on one by one and finish out the last three moves. COMPETITIVE VAULTING In competitive vaulting, vaulters compete as individuals, pairs or pas-de-deux, and teams. Beginning vaulters will compete at the walk but copper-, bronze-, silver-, and goldmedal level vaulters perform on the horse at a canter. The vaulting horse, which has been carefully trained, moves in a 15-metre circle and is controlled by a lunger Vaulting competitions consist of compulsory exercises and choreographed freestyle exercises done to music. There are six compulsories exercises—basic seat, flag, mill, scissors, stand, and flank, in addition to the mount and dismount. Each exercise is scored on a scale from 0-10. Horses also receive a score and are judged on the quality of their gait. Vaulters also compete in freestyle (previously known as Kur). The components of a freestyle vaulting routine MAY include mounts and dismounts, handstands, kneeling and standing and aerial moves such flips. Teams will also carry, lift, and even toss another vaulter in the air. Judging is based on technique, performance, form, difficulty, balance, security, and consideration of the horse—the horse as well as the vaulter earns a score. Vaulting horses are not saddled, but they do wear a surcingle (or a roller) and a thick back pad. The surcingle has special handles which aid the vaulter in performing certain moves as well as leather loops called cossack stirrups. The horse wears a bridle and side reins. The lunge line is usually attached to the inside bit ring. Vaulting horses typically move on the left rein (counterclockwise), but in certain kinds of competitions the horse will canter in the other direction. Two-phase classes of competition also work the horse to the right. While many European teams do not work to the right, many American vaulting clubs work to the right believing this benefits the horse and the vaulter. T h e p r e m i e r Va u l t i n g competitions are the biannual World and Continental Championships and the World Equestrian Games (WEG) held every four years. In the United States, the American Vaulting Association organizes and sponsors national, regional and local events every year, such as Falconwood Springfest in Covington, Georgia. Vaulting events were included in the 1920 Olympics.
Manilla Equine Sporting Association Inc will be holding a HORSE EXPO at the Manilla Show Grounds on the 23rd July 2011.
We would encourage any Equine Associations to contact us if they are interested in promoting their breed or sporting association on the day. We will be holding demonstrations and there will be information stalls to promote the Equine Industry. We are also seeking any interested equine or agricultural stall holders. For more information please contact: Vanessa Gibson 0428 782 973 Alison McCarthy 0447 437 876 Bill McIlrick 0447 845 315 Manilla Equine Sporting Association Inc 82 River Street Manilla NSW 2346
g r o u p s / P o n y
HORSE EXPO
R i d i n g
Photography by MS EQUIPIX 20th March 2011
c l u b
Manilla Equine Sporting Association Inc
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R o d e o / B a r r e l
H o r s e
What’s on calendar Rodeo/Barrel Horse
Australian Barrel Horse Association www.abha.com.au Australian Bushmans Campdraft & Rodeo Association www.abcra.com.au
April 2011 Divisional BARREL Race Moobi Magic Barrel Racing Inc Moobi Western area Susan Worgan (02) 6767 1204 or 0427 010 688 moonbimagic@hotmail.com
3rd April
GUNNEDAH SHOW JUNIOR RODEO Points KELVIN WORBOYS (02) 6742 4577
29th April
GUNNEDAH SHOW RODEO Points KELVIN WORBOYS (02) 6742 4577
30th April
Q11 WORLD SHOW DOWNUNDER PRO RODEO 16TH APRIL 2011 You can see a World Class Professional Rodeo right here in Tamworth at the sensational Equine Centre. Don't miss out - come and see current Australian pro Rodeo Champions mix it with the very best bucking stock, supplied by legendary Australian stock contractors.
Surrounding areas Davrac Dubbo Dash Moobi Magic Barrel Racing Inc Moobi Western area Susan Worgan (02) 6767 1204 or 0427 010 688 moonbimagic@hotmail.com MUSWELLBROOK SHOW RODEO Points BRAD SINGLETON (04) 0888 5997
3rd April
9th April
Pics above & on following page from the Moonbi Magic race day ~ 20th March 2011
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MOONBI MAGIC!
Moonbi Magic Barrel Racing Inc (MMBR Inc) is a pro-active committee based in Moonbi. Our goal is to run a successful, not for profit, competitor focused organisation for Barrel Racers. Moonbi Magic Barrel Racing Inc is an affiliate of the Australian Barrel Horse Association.
th Moonbi Magic committee also host the prestige, Legends of Morn Quarter Horse Stud Barrel Classic on the 15 May 2011. With over $6000 in prize money plus trophies, this major occasion is focused on the Classic event; for horses aged 6yrs and under. The program will also consist of 4D, Men’s, all junior age groups and Pole bend. Entries Close on nd the 2 of May 2011. For more information email moonbimagic@hotmail.com or contact Jill Burch Ph: 0407 500 360 or Helen Mc Vicar Ph: 02 6769 5542 MMBR Inc Membership runs from January to December each year. Seniors 18 and over $30.00 Junior 17 and under $22.00 ****Please note that all riding members must be financial members of the ABHA, their membership fees are $30 Senior and $10 youth. Membership year runs from Januray to December.****
2011 Date List rd 3 April th 15 May (Legends of Morn Quarter Horse Classic event) th 5 June rd 3 July th 7 August So if you are a barrel racer or would like to be th involved and learn barrel racing come and join us at 4 September one of our events for a fun filled day. th 16 October th Everyone is invited! 6 November th 10 December (Finals)
If you would like more information please contact: President: Yvonne Rindfleish 0403 600 983 Secretary: Sue Worgan 02 6767 1204 Email: moonbimagic@hotmail.com
Wild Fi
llies
Phot
ogra
phy
R o d e o / B a r r e l
We have a range of different events which include: 4D (A divisional event so you are competing against the same level with your choice of 1, 2 or 3 runs) Junior 3D (Under 18 yrs, 2 runs) Pole Bend (Fundraiser for the Club) MMBR also run a point series throughout the season and End of Year Awards are presented at the Finals event in December 2011. A saddle for the 4D 2 run will be awarded along with buckles, breast collars and other wonderful prizes. You must attend 4 events to be eligible for the End of Year Awards.
H o r s e
Our aim and vision is to provide different levels of competition, with consideration to the varying abilities of individual Barrel Racers and to encourage their improvement while maintaining healthy competition for open riders.
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R o d e o / B a r r e l
H o r s e
COMPETITOR PROFILE Paula Mills Home town ~
Current location ~
Tamworth NSW
Spring Ridge NSW
What age did you start riding/competing? Pretty young when I started riding, when I turned 16 I became an apprentice jockey and rode till I was 29. I then turned to Barrel racing and haven't looked back.
Why did you choose barrel racing? I've always liked barrel racing but never had the chance to do it with the racing career. Its a fun fast sport.
Who’s your fav horse to date? Epona my little black Qh mare
What’s a typical day involve for you? Well I get up early go out feed my horses etc then head to work for a few hrs. Then I come home do what needs doing before I go work my horses for a few hours, then feed up. Nothing too exciting really.
Any horse related injuries? All my injuries were from the race horses. Broken collar bone, torn ligaments in ankle, popped rib heads, torn rib cartilage and other scrapes and bruises.
Highlights~ Being sponsored by Omega feeds this year
Biggest achievements ~ Winning the Paint Horse National Show Barrel Race 6-3-11. Winning the Moonbi Magic 1st Div saddle and the encouragement barrel race 2010 2nd place in the 3 d barrel race and 4th in the open at the Cloverleaf Cruisers 2010 2nd in the 1st division at the Moonbi Magic Classic 2010 Riding for the QLD team in the State of Origin at the Sydney Royal being part of QLD's win 2010 Equal 2nd and 3rd in the encouragement at Moonbi Magic 2009 Up and coming barrel racer at the Cloverleaf Cruisers 2009
Any quick tips or bits of advice for our readers? Hard work really pays off. Stay dedicated and keep focused. I find presentation is every thing, always look like a winner even after a bad run.
FOR SALE BARREL RACING TROPHY SADDLE 00 Y $9 L 1986 Texas circuit barrel saddle. 14” seat. N O In good condition, always kept inside, only has minor age marks. Good, dark leather with plenty of detail. Been used for trail riding and team penning. Would be perfect fro young adult or second saddle. Contact Alesha 0400 814 772
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Central West Barrel Horse Club Inc Presents:
The “DAVRAC DUBBO DASH” PROUDLY SPONSORED BY DAVRAC QH STUD, DUBBO 2nd April 2011 AT GEURIE’S NEW RODEO ARENA AUSTRALIA’S BEST BARREL RACERS WILL BE COMPETING ON SOME OF THE FINEST BARREL RACING HORSES IN THE COUNTRY. PLEASE COME AND JOIN US, WATCH THE BEST OF THE BEST IN THIS FAST GROWING SPORT AND SUPPORT KIDS WITH CANCER IN THE PROCESS, WE WILL BE ASKING FOR A GOLD COIN DONATION ON THE DAY. EVENTS START SATURDAY 9am-9:30 (Exhibitions at 8am) A Free Service to the beautiful Lookin Treasure’d goes to the fastest time of the weekend on the full size course Donated by V8 Performance Paints Affiliated with the Australian Barrel Horse Association All enquiries to: Dave Rivett – 0414603151 Alana Potter 0428564729 or Susan Coggan - 0408827660 Come Join us, for the first official barrel race day held in the Geurie Rodeo Arena. We look forward to seeing you here
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J u m p i n g
What’s on calendar
Show jumping Showjumping NSW www.nswsjc.com North & North West Showjumping Club www.nnwsjc.equestrian.org.au
April 2011 Tamworth Indoor Championships - Australian Amateur Titles 2011 North & North West Showjumping Club AELEC Phillip Hetherington - pjh@garvin.com.au Tamworth Show Suzanne Rodd P O Box 7111 Ph: 02 67659381 Mobile: 0427 691622 Fax: 02 67652088 Email: admin@tamworthshow.com.au
1st - 3rd April
Gunnedah Show Jackie Weston Ph: 02 6742 1867 (Tues) Mobile: 0429 441781 Email: gunnedahshowsociety@westnet.com.au Website: www.gunnedahshowsociety.com.au
29th April - 1st May
Surrounding areas
April 2011
S h o w
Muswellbrook Show Muswellbrook Showgrounds Jenny Webster – 02 6541 2014 secretary@upperhuntershow.com.au
8th & 9th April
Coaches & Trainers Are you a Coach &/or Trainer? Get your business card here for as little as
$45 per month!!!
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1st - 3rd April
SHOWJUMPER Starting the young horse ~ By Don & Karen Sullivan Although nobody expects a child to write an essay before having mastered the alphabet, it is amazing how many riders expect their young horses to jump a course of jumps in competition when they cannot safely negotiate a single fence without showing a lack of basic education for jumping. To correctly educate a young horse in the fundamentals of jumping is not difficult nor does it require a high degree of skill, it relies on following a progressive and rational method. At River Downs, our youngsters are broken in as late 2 year olds. They are worked and educated on the flat (with frequent spells) for the next 12 months and are ready to commence jump training at the end of their 3 year old year. We expect to have them out at small competitions as 4 year olds. The method we use is based on that of Bert de Nemethy and William Steinkraus. Over the years and with the experience of starting many horses we have made some variations and now believe this is the best system to produce an educated and safe jumping horse. We assume, of course, that your young horse is educated to be obedient on the flat – he stops, goes and can turn at all paces. We would also like the horse to be able to lengthen and shorten his stride at the trot and canter and have the beginnings of self carriage. However education on the flat can proceed alongside jump training so as long as the young horse has mastered these foundations we are ready to start introducing him to jumping. We begin by reducing a jump to its simplest form, a pole on the ground. The horse is walked over this pole, keeping him straight and on the aids. Circle over this pole several times at the walk until the horse negotiates it quietly and cleanly and then repeat the exercise on the other rein. We then repeat the exercise at a steady rising trot. At this point some horses will attempt to jump the pole; discourage this by a little pressure on the bit on the approach and returning to walking over the pole from time to time. As soon as the horse negotiates the pole perfectly when approaching at a right angle, begin walking and then trotting over at a slight angle both to the left and the right. Since we will expect the horse to jump fences at an angle and turn immediately after the fence later in its competitive career, it is useful to introduce this from the beginning.
J u m p i n g
Training the
When the horse does this exercise perfectly, take the fourth pole and use it to make a small cross with the fifth pole (figure 2).
As for the previous exercise, approach in trot. The first pole assists the horse to find his take off point and the second pole discourages over jumping and develops his bascule. Ensure you approach off both reins. In time the cross is increased to a vertical then an oxer.
Â
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S h o w
Once the horse is confidently performing these exercises (not rushing, slowing down or raising his head) add a second pole 4 to 4 and a half feet (1.2 to 1.35m) away and parallel to the first. If satisfied with the horse’s progress add a third pole and finally a fourth and fifth (figure 1).
The distance from the third pole to the cross will be about 9 feet (2.7m). Continue to trot this exercise. The cross can be increased to a vertical and finally an oxer. The poles assist the horse to find a perfect take off point each time and steady his approach to the jump. This exercise can be used throughout the horse’s career and is excellent for the rider as well. At all times the horse must remain calm and attentive to the rider’s aids. If at any stage you feel the horse becoming confused or overwhelmed go back to the previous step. These exercises should never be practiced for too long in a single session. Aim for a steady progression over a number of weeks and accept not all horses learn at the same rate. Now we have introduced our young horse to the idea of jumping, our next exercise is aimed at developing his technique. We start with a pole on the ground, 9 to 10 feet (2.7 to 3m) to a small cross then 9 to 10 feet to another pole (figure 3).
As for the previous exercise, approach in trot. The first pole assists the horse to find his take off point and the second pole discourages over jumping and develops his bascule. Ensure you approach off both reins. In time the cross is increased to a vertical then an oxer. Our next exercise introduces the horse to cantering over a single fence. Build a small cross pole adjacent to and approximately 20 – 25m away from the jump in the previous exercise (figure 4). Approach the exercise in trot but upon negotiating the last pole proceed in canter (ensuring you have the correct lead). Maintain a calm, controlled stride to the cross pole. It is important that, beyond maintaining a steady rhythm, you make no attempt to regulate the horse’s take off point; we encourage him to develop his own eye. The reason we build our first canter fence following a turn is to allow the rider to vary the length of the approach (note the differing approaches A, B and C in figure 4). Start with the fairly long approach A to allow plenty of time to establish the canter. Vary the length of the approach as you proceed with the exercise. Keep an even rein contact whilst supporting the horse gently with the legs. If the horse hesitates apply more calf pressure but maintain exactly the same rein contact and on no account drop the horse by putting a lot of slack in the rein. Repeat the exercise on the other rein. If the horse begins to rush and anticipate (ensure the rider is not causing this), simply circle before the jump (figure 5) until calmness is regained. As soon as the horse is confident over the cross pole, substitute a small vertical then progress to a small oxer. Although cross poles have their place in training, proceed as soon as possible as they do tend to make horses jump flat or merely step over but a small oxer will encourage them to use their back and be rounder in their jump. In all the above exercises the rider’s job is to support, sustain and follow the horse’s motion without anticipating. The horse’s job is to negotiate the exercises in a calm, attentive manner. If you feel you are running into trouble at any point return to the previous step, even to a single pole if necessary. It’s even a good idea to start from the beginning each session and quickly review the previous steps before moving on. Next article we’ll continue the education of the young jumper with combinations, turns and further gymnastic exercises. About the Authors Don and Karen Sullivan own River Downs Equestrian Centre, They train and compete their home bred warm blood horses in show jumping and dressage. They also start and train outside horses for clients as well as coaching and conducting clinics.
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ALL WEATHER ARENA SURFACES - suitable for arenas, round yards, muddy yards, around gates and water troughs EquiTerr is a permanently elastic floor panel, specially developed to create a stable and non-skidding surface for riding and exercise areas of all types. EquiTerr can be ridden on in all weather, even during periods of sustained rain. The EquiTerr panels separate your arena substructure from the top layer, stabilizing your arena base and minimising the cost of sand/ rubber needed as a top layer for your arena.
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STABLE FLOORING - a self-draining stable flooring solution that reduces your ongoing bedding costs The honeycomb panels create a multi layered drainage system that allows urine to drain from the surface, keeping your horse dry and clean in the stable and reduces your bedding costs; Easy installation – panels are laid on a bedding of course gravel and filled with limestone chips (for optimum drainage). To finish simply spread bedding over the surface; Unlike rubber matting, the panels become a permanent part of your stable structure and will not distort, lift up or move over time. Using less bedding you will save time cleaning stalls and create less waste to dispose of;
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h o r s e / A g r i c u l t u r a l S h o w 56
What’s on calendar Show horse/Agricultural www.agshowsnsw.org.au
April 2011 Tamworth Show Suzanne Rodd P O Box 7111 Ph: 02 67659381 Mobile: 0427 691622 Fax: 02 67652088 Email: admin@tamworthshow.com.au
1st - 3rd April
Gunnedah Show Jackie Weston Ph: 02 6742 1867 (Tues) Mobile: 0429 441781 Email: gunnedahshowsociety@westnet.com.au Website: www.gunnedahshowsociety.com.au
29th April - 1st May
Surrounding areas April 2011 Muswellbrook Show Muswellbrook Showgrounds Jenny Webster – 02 6541 2014 secretary@upperhuntershow.com.au
8th & 9th April
Working hunter classes differ from show hunter classes as horse and rider are required to demonstrate their ability over jumps as well as on the flat. They are similar, in one sense, however, as both are intended to be a demonstration of the power, skill and tradition associated with both horse and rider on a hunt. Working hunter classes are an opportunity for riders to show the suitability of their mounts for the hunting field. By demonstrating their ability both over a jump course and then on the flat riders are emulating the requirements of a day’s hunting (albeit in a very condensed form). As such judges will be looking for a horse with a steady temperament, combined with boldness, strength and a touch of class. A hunter should be a dependable, intelligent and sure-footed performance horse, judged less on its physical attributes and more on the qualities it shows when at work. While, hunting as a sport has existed for some time, it is only in relatively recent times that the hunter horse has developed as a discipline in Australia. This interest has been propelled, to a large extent, by the introduction of good quality performance bred bloodlines into Australia such as the Warmblood, Irish Sport Horse,, Native UK Pony breeds, Welsh Cob etc. Such breeds excel in the hunter ring where horses are not judged on their appearance alone, but also their ability to perform and to carry their rider safely and comfortably. Overseas hunter classes are a mark of tradition and as such are extremely prestigious events, entered by show riders, showjumpers and eventers alike. By combining equitation with the ring craft and flatwork required in the show ring, working hunter classes have proved to be an ideal way of developing junior riders. Many now Olympic level riders have built a solid foundation for their riding in the hunter ring. In addition, many professional riders use working hunter classes to develop the skills of their young horses, as the requirements of a working hunter class builds well-rounded horses and provides a strong foundation for those mounts to be introduced competitively into showjumping and eventing competitions.
The Working Hunter Class A working hunter class is comprised of the following phases: Jump; Flatwork; and Conformation. Once all three phases have been run, the total scores from all sections are added together to produce a final mark out of 100. The Jump Phase In the Jump Phase of a working hunter class, competitors are presented with a course of rustic styled fences. These fences should emulate obstacles, which a rider would expect to encounter on the hunt field, such as a brush, gate, stonewall or log. While, at bigger shows working hunter courses may include as many as eight or more jumps, for reasons of practicality, smaller shows may only have a couple of jumps, set up in a way that competitors jump each fence twice (for example, once in both directions). The same principals, however, apply regardless of the number of fences. As a general indication judges will allocate marks for the Jump Phases based on each of the following four criteria: manners, style, pace and control. From these points marks are deducted from for any jumping faults incurred ie: a knock of a rail or a refusal. Flatwork Phase The marks given for the Flatwork Phase are based on the judge’s assessment of the horse’s manners, movement, and general impression when ridden on the flat. The Flatwork Phase of a working hunter class is largely the same as what you would expect for a show hunter class. Judges will often ask for riders to perform a basic work out comprising of trot and canter in both directions, 2 changes of direction at canter and a gallop. Riders should not expect to be asked for things such as extended trot or walk through changes in workouts as these would not be ordinarily performed on the fast pace of the hunting field Conformation Phase The judge will award a final mark to each horse for their conformation and whether they are of hunter type. This is often performed by the judge at the beginning or the end of the Flatwork Phase and is ordinarily done while the horse is saddled, (although a judge does have the discretion to ask riders to unsaddle their horses if required). To judge conformation, the judge will ask the horse and competitor to present before them so that they may be inspected from all sides. Judges will be looking for strong straight legs, welldeveloped loins and a good length of rein, among other things. As a judge is assessing a horse also on its ‘type’, horses that are fine boned or the lacking substance expected of the hunter type should expect to receive lower marks for the conformation phase.
S h o w
Part one: BY LISA LE PROVOST
h o r s e / A g r i c u l t u r a l
Judges & competitors guide to the
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Appropriate Attire Similar attire for show hunter classes is expected for working hunter classes, namely more demure coloured, workmanlike clothing. Brightly coloured waistcoats, ties or lapel pins should be avoided and a tweed hunter jacket is preferable. White girths, numnahs, ribboned or bling brow bands and brightly coloured hair ribbons are to be avoided. A jump saddle may be worn in a working hunter class and boots may be worn for the jumping phase. Boots, however, must be removed prior to the judging of conformation. With the exception of removing boots, there is no opportunity in a working hunter class for horse or rider to change attire. As such the one saddle and bridle must be used for all phases. Pre-show preparation The key to success in working hunter competitions is the work you put in at home before the show. One of the biggest mistakes that competitors can make before going in working hunter competitions is to not have done adequate preparation before the show. Always remember that you must be comfortably jumping higher fences at home than you intend to jump at a competition and that jumps should not be practiced on their own but in combinations. Jumping one fence of 80cm continually at home will not mean that you are ready to jump an 85cm course as the combinations of fences, oxers and navigating the distances between them present a whole new host of challenges to both horse and rider.
Judging and the Working Hunter Class Judging working hunter classes presents unique challenges to both judges and competitors. The class, however, can be very easy to understand if you adopt a practical approach and consider the sorts of qualities, in both horse and rider, which may be of advantage on the hunt field. In the Jump Phase the picture that competitors should be striving to create should be one of a comfortable, practical, sure footed horse, listening to his rider and athletic enough to be ridden for a full day's hunting. Thus when determining marks judges will be looking for a horse that rides a smooth, sweeping round and doesn't baulk at fences, rush or prop. The highest marks will be awarded to combinations that show balance, rhythm, impulsion, adjustability, manners and safety. Jumping rounds of working hunter classes are not timed, so a competitor who, rides at a controlled pace, takes a wide, well balanced corners and sets themselves up properly for a jump will receive better marks then a combination that goes flat strap, barely in control. At the opposite end of the spectrum, however, a sluggish, evasive round should not expect to receive high marks either. Ideally the round should be forward and the horse should move easily and effortlessly The sorts of things, which will receive low marks in a working hunter class, are those that would not be acceptable, or would cause danger on the hunt field, for example: • a veering horse on the hunt field puts other horses and riders around it at risk - as such a straight jumping horse will be awarded higher marks for style and manners. • excessive checking before fences will be marked down as this will alter the clarity and evenness of pace. It is expected that riders should demonstrate control over their mount at all times and be able to turn and reduce pace smoothly and within a short time. This is because, on the hunt field, it is necessary for riders always to be are able to pull up quickly if they encounter an unforeseen hazard. While all working hunter classes will include three phases, they are not necessarily always run in the order listed above (jump/ flatwork/ conformation). Ultimately the form that the class takes will be at the discretion of the individual judge on the day of the competition. For example, some judges prefer to begin with the Jump Phase before proceeding to the Flatwork, where others will request that the Flatwork be performed before the Jump Phase. It is also possible that a judge may choose to combine the Flatwork and Jump Phases together such that the Flatwork workout leads straight into the jump course. Similarly a judge may request that competitors show a gallop before, within or after their jumping round as by doing so competitors demonstrate the ability to control their mount over the varied terrain and changing conditions of the hunt field. Judges may even ask that the competitor demonstrate a halt transition within their jumping round to demonstrate the level of control they have over their mount. These requirements are what distinguish a working hunter course from your average show jumping round and as such a savvy competitor, will have practiced these at home and will be ready for all possible combinations that a judge might present to them. Because jumping faults, ie: a knock or refusal costs competitors at least 10 points (and in some cases 20 points), the aim of the game in working hunter classes is to have a clear jumping round as it is often an uphill battle to recover those lost points in the following Conformation or Flatwork Phases. The winners of a working hunter class are, therefore, most often those who have ridden a clear jumping round. While it is a rule overseas that where five or more competitors have a clear round in the jumping phase, the rest of the field that has incurred jumping faults will be excluded from the ride or conformation phases, this is more of a guideline in Australia – as such, its imposition is at the discretion of the judge and event organisers on the day. In conclusion a successful working hunter combination will combine a smooth ride on the flat with a careful and bold jump round adding a dash of ring craft, to reflect the traditions and the prestige of their origins. Working hunter classes, however, should not be restricted to show horses and show riders despite the fact that show horse events, to date, have most openly embraced the classes in Australia. Showjumpers, eventers and even all-rounders can gain many skills from these classes, which can be used as a spring board for both horse and rider into other disciplines, or to refine skills so that combinations can practice working hunter classes as a discipline in their own right. The Australian Hunter Horse Association was launched in early 2009 and was formed to raise the profile of hunter disciplines in Australia. For more information on the AHHA, or working hunter classes generally, visit their website at http:// www.hunterhorses.com.au/ or email: info@hunterhorses.com.au Part 2 of Working Hunters in the May edition. Exercises to help improve your performance in the jump phase of a Working Hunter round.
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~ Manilla Show
If you would like your event/training day covered by practice & District Local Horse Magazine/MS Equipix, phone Mel on 0409 987 152 or email tdlhorsemag@live.com
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Pe r f o r m a n c e / R e i n i n g We s t e r n
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What’s on calendar Western Performance/Reining NSW Reining Horse Association www.reiningnsw.com Tamworth District Western Performance & Appaloosa Club www.freewebs.com/tamappy1
April 2011 Q11 Tamworth The Reining events at Q11 are being held on the 17th & 18th April AELEC
May 2011 NSWRHA Affliate Qualifier
17th - 18th April
Surrounding areas 14th May
Horseworld Stadium, Maralya
The NSW Reining Horse Association, Inc, started in the mid eighties when a group of western horse people in the Sydney area got together to run reining and cow horse shows. In fact the association started as the N.S.W. Reining and Reined Cow Horse Association. In the early days of reining, classes were run by the Quarter Horse clubs who were more interested in the Pleasure, Trail and to a lesser extent, Cutting classes. Reining was known as the Cinderella event as it was always run last and quite often not run at all as time would not permit. The idea was that this group had to raise the profile of reining and to give failed cutting horses another avenue to enter the performance arena. In this period the Sydney Cutting Club was in full swing and the western horse scene in the greater Sydney area was very vibrant with shows most weekends. After the formation of the RHAA in 1988, reining in Australia had at last a national body to champion the cause of reining on a national level. The club changed its name to the N.S.W. Reining Horse Association to better reflect the direction its members were taking. In the early years the club ran a full show program, including Western Pleasure, Trail, Hunter Under Saddle and Cow Horse classes every month. As the reining horse industry matured in Australia, so the focus of the club became more specialised and the numbers involved dictated a rationalising of the sport. In the early nineties, Dave Gardner started running the Western Showcase Series of shows at Horseworld near Windsor in western Sydney. These shows were a huge success and really showed what reining could be if it was promoted correctly. It was after these shows that the decision was made to start having shows at this venue. A combination of a large arena and good surface made it the perfect place to have out State Show. 1993 was the first year that the NSWRHA held its State Show at Horseworld and although our show program was too ambitious with the show running 'till 3am the show was deemed a success with the standard being set for years to come. Because of the specific needs of the reining horse for good, consistent ground, the club became renowned for repairing the Horseworld surface and other users of Horseworld came to appreciate the efforts of the reiners in improving the quality of ground at the complex. In 1995 a decision was reached between the NSWRHA and the Horseworld management to update the surface so that it would not require continual maintenance. A group of members got together and stripped the base of the arena and repaired all the holes. A new base was laid and rolled and then with the addition of a courser sand the arena was put back into use, and that is the surface that we ride on today. The NSWRHA has a long and colourful history with many personalities of the reining industry having been involved with the club over more than 20 years. Reining in Australia is moving into a very exciting period with the advent of World Equestrian Games reining competition, a truly international competition driving reining into a high profile equestrian sport. The NSWRHA is well placed to be in on the ground floor and direct the growth in the sport with the possibility of WEG qualifiers and EFA competition taking place in NSW. With a long history and a bright future it makes sense to be part of the NSW Reining Horse Association, Inc.
Tip 1: Look Good
Class
Having a clean and put together appearance when you enter the show ring is something many competitors overlook. Remember, when you are standing at the gate or the first cone waiting to start your pattern the judge gets a first impression based on your appearance! If you have a flawless pattern but your outfit is wrinkled, your hair is hanging in your face and your hat is crunched you probably won't win the class unless you were miles ahead of the competition. You don't have to be dressed fancy, just neat and clean. Have your hat cleaned and shaped regularly, make sure your clothes are not just clean but free of distracting wrinkles and have boots that match the color of your pants. Also, your hair should be pulled neatly out of your face and makeup should be professional looking and not overdone! This goes for your horse as well. He should be as clean as possible with face and legs trimmed properly and mane and tail combed (even better: a good mane banding or braiding job will go a long way!).
Tip 2: A Good Start Practice at home so your horse will stand square at the start cone or gate. Most of the time you will have a little longer to get your horse's feet set at the start because the previous exhibitor is running their pattern. You want to be sure that when the judges turns to you, you are ready and looking sharp! Your horse should also walk forward readily with you when you take that first step in the pattern. Don't close your eyes and hope he does...practice this every time you walk him at home. Whether you are walking to the pasture with him or just finished riding and are cooling him out, always ask him to walk with you properly. You never get a second chance at a first impression, so make your first steps count!
Tip 3: Use the Cones One of the biggest problems I see with young and inexperienced exhibitors is that they don't know when to transition at a cone! Your pattern says: "Walk from cone A to cone B, Trot to cone C, stop and back 4 steps". When do you transition? For most people you should start asking your horse to transition the moment their nose reaches the cone. That way he will already be in the next gate (or stopped) by the time his shoulder gets there. That is the true transition point! Make sure you don't ask too late! If you know it will take 4-5 steps before your horse transitions then you will want to ask a bit earlier. If your horse is so in tune that is only takes 1 step then ask a bit later. Again, practice this at home. Even if you have to use a pop bottle as your cone, it's much better than never trying until you enter the ring!
Tip 4: Keep your distance There is nothing a judge dislikes more than having to get out of the way of an exhibitor! If your pattern says to stop at the judge your horse's nose should be about an arm's length away by the time you have completely stopped. In this case, it is better to be a little farther away than too close. This distance also give you enough room to move around the horse's nose if the judge walks to the left side of your horse first in his inspection. NOTE: A small sub-point on this topic is that you should be bringing your horse to the judge. If your pattern has you walking or trotting to the judge your horse's nose should be headed straight for the judge's torso. If you look just to the left of the judge (instead of at him/her) you will line up with your horse straight!
Tip 5: Stay Sharp In a showmanship class everything is about precision. Always move with purpose and keep good posture. Although you shouldn't rush through the maneuvers, taking too much time to set up, back or pivot is considered a fault. Instead you should make sure each item is performed "sharp". This does not mean you should nod at the judge each time you move side to side or when you exit. That looks fake! Now Get Practicing! Now that you have some tips to help you know what to look for, get out there are start practicing! Remember that even if you have a great showmanship horse you have to be in tune with him to make a winning showmanship pattern. Take the time to go through each maneuver you may be required to do in your class and work on it until you can perform it with no lead rope. That is the challenge I give myself each time I work with a new horse on perfecting showmanship. If I can do it well with no lead then I know I can hit the mark in the show ring! Connie Colvin www.EzineArticles.com
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Pe r f o r m a n c e / R e i n i n g
Showmanship
We s t e r n
5 Tips to Winning Patterns in
Feeding for performance Dr Caroline Foote, Equine Consulting Services Are your horses meeting their full potential? All horses are governed by their “genetic” potential to perform, however, through appropriate training and optimal nutrition, the equine athlete has the potential to perform at the very best of his or her ability every time. Nutrition is the easiest thing to control and the quality of the ration can significantly affect the horse’s capacity to cope with training. There are certain nutrients required for frequent or prolonged physical activity. Other than fresh water and electrolytes particularly during the warmer months, these include energy, protein (and amino acids), vitamins and minerals.
Energy is the “fuel” that powers the body’s processes and the adequacy of the energy intake can directly influence the horse’s performance, vitality and maintenance of optimum body condition. Horses in full work have a high energy requirement, and through experience we have found that horses that are offered and consume the recommended level of energy stand a much better chance of competing at a high level. Protein is critical in any ration and is generally regarded as the “muscle building” nutrient. Protein meals that are commonly used in rations include soy, lupins, tick beans and sunflower seeds. Vitamins and minerals play a critical role in the health of the horse and imbalances in these critical nutrients can have a significant effect on performance. In diets consisting largely of cereal grains, protein meals, chaff and dried hays, natural forms of minerals and vitamins are generally in short supply. Injections do not elevate blood levels for very long and the best method of supplementation is by oral administration in the form of powdered or pelleted supplements on a daily basis. The importance of roughage in a ration Roughage is an extremely important part of the horse’s diet. It opens up the digestive mass and traps water to aid soluble nutrient uptake, facilitates energy synthesis of B Group vitamins, assists in maintaining body warmth and stores a reserve of fluid in the hindgut that can be absorbed as a horse dehydrates due to sweat, respiratory and urinary loss. It is recommended that stabled horses which do not have full time access to adequate pasture should be provided with ad lib access to hay. Common nutrient deficiencies in performance horse rations – causes of poor performance In a recent survey of over 70 rations[1], we found that 69% of rations contained less sodium than recommended, while 30% of diets contained less Vitamin E than recommended. At least one B Group Vitamin was lower than recommended in 76% of diets (B Group vitamins play a role in release of energy). Diagnosing and correcting nutritional imbalances in a ration Evaluation of a ration is the most effective method of diagnosing and correcting nutrient imbalances and is a large part of the work carried out by Equine Consulting Services. This involves a full analysis of the feeding program whereby the nutrients provided by each of the ingredients are evaluated and compared to those required by the racehorse. The ration may then be re-formulated so that it provides optimal levels of energy, high quality protein, and adequate vitamins and minerals for peak performance. For further information on nutritional requirements of horses or analysis of feeding programs, please contact Equine Consulting Services today on (02) 9652 2653 or via email: info@equineconsultingservices.com.au. 1.
Foote, C.E. (2006). Nutritional evaluation of the feeding regimens used by Australian Thoroughbred Racehorse trainers. Proceedings of the Australian Equine Science Symposium, p 49.
400 300 200 100 0
400 300 200 100 0
www.equineconsultingservices.com.au
PMTinMares~FACTorFICTION? It is easy to forget that mares are 'entire' animals and, as such, may be prone to hormonal imbalances. This can result in what is commonly known as 'mare-ish' behavior, which can sometimes make life difficult for owners and riders, particularly within the competitive sphere. Around 10 per cent of mature mares suffer symptoms affecting their performance around the time of oestrus. Despite this, the syndrome is not well understood and there is little comparative research to enable owners and vets to choose the best treatment. The symptoms Oestrus-related problems range from symptoms of pain, aggression and reduced willingness to work to signs of sexual receptiveness that are out of place in the competition ring. Affected mares may suffer from colic, or resent grooming or tacking up – they may also urinate repeatedly. Symptoms may be most marked during the first season of the year, or occur at every oestrus, but are normally absent in the winter, when most mares won't come into season. It is impossible to know for sure what mares feel as they ovulate, and much evidence relating to 'mare-ish' behavior is anecdotal. However, a proportion of women experience pain linked to ovulation and some mares suffer otherwise unexplained colic at this time, suggesting that ovulation may be painful for them, too. Another potential source of pain during oestrus is traction on the ovarian ligament, caused by a 4-5cm diameter follicle (egg) hanging into the abdomen. This is usually seen in older mares, as they have heavier ovaries and longer ovarian ligaments. The hormones associated with oestrus may also cause some of the symptoms. Increased oestrogen acts on the behavioral centres of the brain to induce sexually responsive behavior, and may be linked to greater sensitivity or aggression. This may reflect the fact that the mare's biological drive during oestrus is to mate, overriding her training and her willingness to perform. Supplementation as treatment The most common treatments for mare-ish behavior are herbal or food supplements. Most contain a mixture of herbs, including some that have a mildly sedative effect and others thought to act on the hormonal system. For example, the chaste tree berry (a common ingredient) is thought to act on the pituitary gland to suppress seasonal activity. The problem with herbal supplements is that it is difficult to know which mares will respond to which product – it can be worth trying several over time to see which works best for your horse. Bear in mind that some products contain substances banned under FEI or Jockey Club rules, so they should not be used in competing mares unless the manufacturer can guarantee that they comply with regulations. The most effective treatment is to prevent seasons, thus avoiding both the hormonal and physical effects. There are a number of possible methods, with more being developed. Most either suppress oestrus behavior altogether or mimic pregnancy, which in turn suppresses symptoms. The 'equine pill' option Regumate Equine is an oral, hormonal treatment that mimics progesterone (which is released during pregnancy) and acts to prevent oestrus. A recent ruling stated that it may be used in horses competing under FEI regulations, and as a result its popularity is set to continue. However, withdrawal of this medication results in the resumption of normal cycles, so prolonged daily treatment is needed for ongoing oestrus prevention.
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A recent development in the USA – likely to appear soon in the UK – is a long-acting injectable progestagen (a substance that mimics progesterone), which achieves the same results as Regumate, but requires just one injection every two weeks, reducing costs as a result. Ongoing research has resulted in the development of an antiGNRH (a hormone linked to reproduction) vaccine that aims to prevent oestrus. Although still at the experimental stage, this treatment may offer hope to affected mares in the future. Some owners find that using a low dose of phenylbutazone (bute) around the time of oestrus can reduce pain and inflammation, although this cannot be used in mares competing under FEI or Jockey Club rules. Long-term management As the symptoms of ovarian pain tend to become more marked with age, and are generally not associated with any underlying problem or disease process that needs to be cured, affected mares often need ongoing treatment to allow them to continue to work. Finding the appropriate medical and management methods that regulate the symptoms for your particular mare is the key to long-term management. Rest around the time of oestrus is also an option – after all, wouldn't you rather stay in bed? The normal oestrus cycle The normal mare cycles regularly every 18-24 days between September and March, with longer periods of oestrus at either end of this time span. The follicular phase lasts around four to six days: the hormone GNRH is released from the brain, stimulating the ovaries and causing the development of ovarian follicles (eggs). The oestrus period lasts around three to five days in mares: one or two follicles dominate and develop until they measure around 4-5cm in diameter. A surge of oestrogen from the ovaries prompts ovulation, as well as inducing sexually receptive behavior in the mare. The egg then travels to the fallopian tube and awaits fertilisation. The luteal phase lasts around two weeks: a corpus luteum (progesterone-secreting mass of cells) forms from the remnants of the ovarian follicle after the release of a mature egg. The release of progesterone delays return to the follicular phase of the cycle. In the absence of conception, the corpus luteum regresses after around two weeks and a new follicular phase begins. If conception occurs, the one- to two-week-old embryo induces hormones to increase the longevity of the corpus luteum, maintaining pregnancy and preventing oestrus. Controversial techniques Roberta says: "An alternative method for controlling mare-ish behavior is now available that involves creating an unwanted pregnancy in the affected mare (usually by artificial insemination), then preventing development of the embryo from about 16-17 days of pregnancy by 'nipping' it during a rectal examination. "This method suppresses seasons for three to four months and can be repeated to prolong the effect. It works because in the second week after conception, the developing embryo induces the mare to produce hormones that maintain the false pregnancy for the first trimester, even if the embryo does not survive beyond this time. Steps to take if you think your horse suffers from 'mareishness' Call the vet and get a full health check and rectal examination of your mare's reproductive system. Follow that up with an ultrasound scan of her ovaries. Discuss blood tests to detect hormonal levels with your vet. Begin appropriate treatment based on the type and severity of your mare's symptoms and her intended level of performance.
Roberta Baxter MRCVS
Artwork by MS EQUIPIX
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