Massachusetts Horse April/May 2017

ANNUAL EVENTS ISSUE

M A S S AC H U S E T T S

HORSE

PRESEASON CHECKLIST MAKE SURE YOU AND YOUR HORSE WILL BE READY TO GO

page 8

EMERALD HILL FARM

HARD WORK, CONSISTENCY, AND FAIRNESS

April/May 2017 mahorse.com $4

page 14

WILLAWAY FARM BUILD THE DREAM page 18

WESTON TRAILS TRAIL GUIDE

page 20

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April/May 2017

contents

April/May 2017

columns 16 Quirky New Behavior? Š2017 ShawnaLee Kwashnak, shawnalee.com

There’s a Reason for It Horse Logic

8

Jade Gedeon

18 Willaway Farm Build the Dream

14

20 Weston Trails Trail Guide

Cody Parmenter

36 Bay State Events Calendar

12

22

in every issue

features 8

Preseason Checklist Make Sure You and Your Horse Will Be Ready To Go Lead Feature

5 From the Publisher

14

Emerald Hill Farm Hard Work, Consistency, and Fairness Farm Feature

7 Your Letters 24 Overherd: News in Our Community 30 Partners 35 This Olde Horse 56 The Neighborhood

12

Charles Cerrone

22 Peaceful Valley

Outstanding Halter Amateur

Donkey Rescue

Horseperson Feature

at Friends of Noah Farm

58 Is This Your Horse?

58 Advertiser Index

Lend a Hoof

Massachusetts Horse

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CARVER 508.866.9150 Richard.Blair@farm-family.com

NORWOOD 781.255.2002 Francis_Bingham@farm-family.com

EASTHAMPTON 413.203.5180 Josh.Nadeau@farm-family.com

SOUTHWICK 413.569.2307 themasonagency@farm-family.com

GREAT BARRINGTON 413.528.1710 Bob.Sinopoli@farm-family.com Dominic.Sinopoli@farm-family.com

TOPSFIELD 978.887.8304 Dale_Johnson@farm-family.com

MARLBOROUGH 508.485.3800 Martin_West@farm-family.com MIDDLEBOROUGH 508.747.8181 Andrew_Brodeur@farm-family.com Kevin.Sullivan@farm-family.com NORTHBOROUGH 508.393.9327 Jeff.Pichierri@farm-family.com

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April/May 2017

WESTFORD 978.467.1001 Donald.Ludwig@farm-family.com WILLIAMSTOWN 413.458.5584 MaureenOMara@farm-family.com WORCESTER 508.752.3300 Thomas_Carroll@farm-family.com

From the Publisher

S

pring is here, and it’s time to start having fun with

cling effect that covers me in horse hair, especially if I’m

our horses again! If you keep yours at home, as I do,

wearing polar fleece. Soon shiny, buttery coats will appear.

you know that in the cold, snowy, short days of win-

In this issue we launch a new column, Build the Dream.

ter, often it’s all about just get-

In each issue we’ll feature a

ting horses fed and barns

new barn and interview the

mucked, and keeping unfrozen

owner and builder. Who

water available. It seems there’s

doesn’t drive by a new barn and

little time for the really good

want go inside and learn all

stuff — riding, training, groom-

about it? See page 18 for this

ing, playing. Now, on these

issue’s barn, Willaway Farm.

In this issue you’ll discover,

warmer days, it’s so good to put gloveless hands on my horses. I

or rediscover, a vast array of

hope you, too, are finding the

Massachusetts events: listings begin on page 36. When you’re

feel of your horse’s shedding coat a joyful experience.

Miniature Horse Peanut “helping” with barn chores and slowly shedding out his winter coat at Pocketful of Ponies Farm.

It’s late March and the pastures are being revealed by the melting snow. I’m looking out the window and watching the herd on this sunny day. I know spring is here because

enjoying one of them — either

participating or auditing — look for the red Ford truck with Massachusetts Horse signs and do stop and say hi.

Happy spring!

just getting within two feet of the ponies creates a static-

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Dealer

Dealer Massachusetts Horse

5

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M ASSAC H US ETTS

HORSE vol. 15, no. 6 April/May 2017

ISSN 1945-1393

99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (413) 268-3302 • fax: (413) 268-0050 • mahorse.com Massachusetts Horse magazine is an independently owned and -operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for the Bay State. © 2017 Massachusetts Horse All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this magazine or portions thereof in any form without prior written permission.

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publisher Stephanie Sanders • steph@mahorse.com • (413) 268-3302 editor Kathaleen Emerson feature writers Nicole Birkholzer, Andrea Bugbee, Holly Jacobson Alessandra Mele, Cora Shillinglaw, Stacey Stearns contributors Megan Koski, Suzy Lucine, Lori Mahassel, Diane Merritt, Karen Morang Laurie Neely, Rebekah Nydam, Annamaria Paul, Katelyn Parsons Emma Rickenbach, Liz Russell, Cora Shillinglaw, Molly Watson, Lisa Wohlleib county desk liaisons Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties Alessandra Mele • (413) 949-1972 • alessandra@mahorse.com Barnstable County Cora Shillinglaw • (508) 737-6810 • shillinglawc@gmail.com Bristol County Melissa Root • (508) 863-0467 • melissa@mahorse.com Essex County Holly Jacobson • (978) 356-5842 • holly@mahorse.com Middlesex, Norfolk, and Plymouth Counties Jacqueleen Kareh • (781) 467-8555 • elkarehphotography@gmail.com Worcester County Karen Morang • (508) 797-2828 • karen@mahorse.com

State-of-the-Art Equine Laundry Facility Expert Tack Repair

advertising main office • (413) 268-3302 • ads@mahorse.com Advertising deadline for the June/July issue is May 10.

Gently Used Blankets and Tack for Sale Brass Name Plates Engraved Established 1980

Jennifer Safron www.jennstackandblanket.com JennsTackRepair@comcast.net 114 Coburn Ave., Gardner, MA (978) 340-5576 Please call for hours 6

April/May 2017

Equitation 11" x 14" oil on canvas by Gretchen Almy Designs, galmydesigns.com.

(See page 26.)

Massachusetts Horse is printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper.

the fine print The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Massachusetts Horse staff or independent contractors, nor can they be held accountable. Massachusetts Horse will not be held responsible for any misrepresentations or any copyright infringement on the part of advertisers. Massachusetts Horse will not be held responsible for typing errors other than a correction in the following issue. All letters addressed to Massachusetts Horse, its publisher, editor, and staff are assumed for publication. Photos, stories (verbal or printed), notifications, news items, and all other material that is submitted, including all materials and photos not specifically solicited by Massachusetts Horse, are assumed to be legally released by the submitter for publication. Massachusetts Horse assumes no responsibility for damage to or loss of material submitted for publication. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of all materials.

To the editor:

Your Letters

Thank you for providing the sportsmanship award for the Interscholastic Equestrian Association Region 7 and 12 Finals at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley. It was a wonderful day of showing horses and we’re thrilled for the riders who advanced to zones. Thank you, Massachusetts Horse, for supporting the local community.

On behalf of the IEA Show Committee,

To the editor:

Deb Sullivan, Bellwether Stables, Richmond

This letter is in regard to the February/March article entitled Helmets: The Hard-Headed Facts. The article was well-written and provided ample facts of why one should wear a helmet.

©2017 ShawnaLee Kwashnak, shawnalee.com

may the horse be with you!

However, there’s a difference between a bill that’s well written and one that’s so far off the mark that it could actually put the rider/driver, police officer, and horse in danger.

This was not mentioned in the article.

The following language is in bill H. 4510 (189th Congress 2015-16): “(A) Police officers who witness a rider riding a horse without wearing a helmet may request the rider to dismount and retrieve a helmet before remounting.

(B) Police officers who witness a driver under the age of 18 driving a horse without wearing a helmet may request the driver to step from the vehicle retrieve a helmet before returning to the vehicle.” No age for sentence A. If passed like this, it would mean all ages.

The only saving grace in the above paragraph is that it states that a police officer “may” request, because otherwise it will create some really big problems. The logistics of having a police officer asking a rider to dismount and retrieve a helmet might work if this happened by a riding facility/barn/house where the rider could actually be close enough to get a helmet.

What about all the other situations where the rider is unable to “immediately” retrieve a helmet? Are they going to make that person walk all the way back home leading the horse?

Now having a driver step out of the carriage to retrieve a helmet is a real safety hazard. You would need someone to hold the horse while the driver is retrieving a helmet. Would the police officer be trained to do this? Leaving a horse and carriage unattended is a huge safety issue. By having police officers enforcing this, you could be opening up their departments and the state to huge liability issues.

I have some issues with the whole police officer issue in that they may request the rider to dismount or exit from the carriage to retrieve a helmet. I’m not comfortable with putting our junior riders and drivers and their horses at potential risk by a law that is supposed to decrease their risk of getting hurt.

Did I do my very best to get this bill squashed because it was so poorly written? Yes, I did. I was in contact with my representatives and had a long conversation with them on this.

Do I have an issue with wearing helmets? No, I do not. I wear one all the time. I just have an issue with a bill that does not do what it is supposed to accomplish.

As they say, the devil is in the details. Moreover, it’s these details that need to be made known.

To the editor:

Becky Kalagher, Bay State Trail Riders Association president

I just wanted to thank you for your article on helmet safety in the February/March issue of Massachusetts Horse. As a rider who has taken a few falls over the years, it’s great that you’re bringing awareness to such an important issue. It’s my personal belief that if a thin layer of foam and plastic between one’s head and the ground can mean the difference between life and death, then everyone should be wearing a helmet, even at the expense of tradition. Riding is a sport after all, not a fashion show.

Become an Advocate!

continued on page 57 . . .

The easiest way to stay informed and become an advocate for yourself and equestrians in the Bay State is to set up an account called . This makes it easy for you to follow a bill or hearing, easily contact your legislators, get alerts based on your interests, and earn badges for exploring!

Go to malegislature.gov and click on the person icon in the upper right corner. From there you can register and begin your quest. May the be with you!

MyLegislature horse

Massachusetts Horse

7

Preseason Checklist Before the riding and showing schedule heats up, use this five-point checklist to make sure you and your horse will be ready to go.

©2017 ShawnaLee Kwashnak, shawnalee.com

by Dee McVicker and Christine Barakat

A

t this time of year green shoots are at last poking through the soil in pastures and robins can be seen flitting down fence lines. But at many barns there’s another sure sign of spring: riders pulling tack out of storage and restocking their grooming kits in eager anticipation of the first big trail ride, show, or clinic of the season.

Those debut outings can be a little rough, though. Horses who are otherwise sensible and sedate may jig and bolt.

Others lag behind the group, too winded to keep up. One horse may be tender footed and another so rotund after a lazy winter that his saddle no longer fits. And then there are the practicalities to contend with: leaky buckets, flat tires and crucial travel paperwork that somehow got misplaced.

Of course, you’ll be able to muddle through, but wouldn’t it be nice to skip false starts and frustrations as you get ready for peak riding and showing season? There are no guarantees, of course, but with a little planning and preparation, you can keep unpleasant surprises to a minimum as you get your horse ready for your first major event of the year. To help you, here’s a basic pre-sea8

April/May 2017

son checklist — start with these areas and add your own based on your goals and your horse’s needs.

Health Status Any horse about to head back to work after several months of relative ease will benefit from a visit from the veterinarian. Not only will a spring checkup take care of routine health-care issues, it can uncover developing problems that might worsen later in the season.

You may also want to request a brief lameness exam. A veterinarian may detect mild joint soreness, the slight thickening of a tendon or other subtle signs of trouble that are best addressed early. If anything suspicious appears, ask your veterinarian whether this would also be a good time to take radiographs to look for any changes in chronic orthopedic conditions and to establish a new baseline for comparison in subsequent exams.

This visit is also the time for spring vaccines, giving your horse’s immune system a chance to arm itself before insects are out in full force and your horse begins traveling. Which ones your horse

needs depends on his age and your plans for the year. Immunizations against rabies, tetanus, West Nile virus and eastern and western equine encephalitis — the “core vaccines” — are recommended for all horses, and your veterinarian may suggest additional shots to protect against strangles, influenza, and other diseases based on your horse’s particular risk.

If your plans include traveling to shows, clinics, and other organized events, you’ll want your veterinarian to pull blood for a Coggins test and prepare other necessary health paperwork that such venues generally require. Look into what you’ll need well in advance — some shows and other venues have new requirements that include specific vaccinations. Make multiple copies of these right away. Keep one set in your truck and another in your tack box to increase the odds of being able to find a set when you need them. Keep the originals in the house for safekeeping.

If you and your horse are going to be crossing state lines, those states may require a heath certificate from your vet so look into that as well.

Weight gain and loss can be easy to overlook under winter blankets and heavy hair coats. Weight changes affect everything from saddle fit to systemic health, so you’ll want to get a clear idea of your horse’s status and decide how you’ll manage it well before your first competition, event, or major trail outing.

Get a literal “feel” for how much body fat your horse is carrying with a vigorous grooming session using a curry and your hands. Consult a body condition score chart if you’re unsure of the meaning of deposits over various anatomical points. A target score for most horses is between five and six.

Also pay attention when you tack up.

Weight loss or changes in muscle tone can cause the saddle to bridge across the back or pinch his withers. Even if it fit perfectly fine last fall, assess your horse’s tack as if it were brand new and be prepared to make accommodations until his body condition normalizes: Often, you can “shim” with pockets of padding or use a swayback pad that will raise the saddle up off the back until your horse returns to his usual fitness level. If your horse has gained considerable weight, you may have to temporarily substitute another saddle that has a wider tree.

You may also be tempted to make immediate adjustments to your horse’s diet. But be mindful of how his lifestyle and environment may be changing in the coming months. For instance, pounds may melt away as a horse’s workload increases even if you don’t reduce his grain ration. And a return of spring pastures may help a lean horse fill out in the coming weeks. Talk to your veterinarian before making any nutritional adjustments (that first veterinary check-up is a good time to have the conversation) and then implement any recommended changes slowly.

If your horse has a history or risk of arthritis, look into the benefit of starting a joint supplement while you’re considering diet and nutrition. A “loading” dose of a supplement you are currently giving may also be appropriate in the weeks leading up to a return to work, but don’t make any such adjustments without speaking to your veterinarian first.

Fitness How much conditioning your horse will need to return to peak form depends on his previous level of fitness, how he spent his downtime, and your performance goals for the season. If he has been

©2017 ShawnaLee Kwashnak, shawnalee.com

Weight

turned out all winter in an active herd with space to run he may have retained some of his fitness. You can get back into a regular riding routine with such a horse much more quickly than you can with one who spent most of his winter days confined to a stall or a small paddock. The natural exercise of pasture living, however, won’t prepare a horse for the collection, bending, lateral flexion, and mental focus that may be required of him in a discipline-specific event.

No matter your sport or discipline, reconditioning starts with slow work — walking and jogging. On your first ride, limit your time in the saddle to less than an hour at this slow speed. Then, over the course of several weeks, increase the speed or distance of your rides, but never both at the same time. Pay attention to your horse’s level of fatigue.

You’ll need to push him a bit to increase his fitness, but be careful to avoid exhausting him. A return to fitness will stall if a horse needs weeks or months off to recover from an injury.

A heart rate monitor can help you keep track of your horse’s increasing fitness: A well-conditioned horse’s heart rate will usually return to below 60 beats

per minute within 10 or 15 minutes of stopping exercise. Remember that it’s not just cardiovascular fitness that matters. Your horse’s tendons, bones, and ligaments need time to adapt to the demands of work as well.

Be sure to add in recovery days to your fitness regimen. A horse’s body will rebuild stressed structures during downtime, which leads to the increased strength you’re aiming for. You’ll need to work a horse at least four times a week to improve his fitness, but at least two very easy rides or completely off days in the pasture are equally important.

After a few weeks of foundation work, you can add in discipline-specific skill work, such as jumping, spins, or stops. Avoid repetitive drills. Not only do they stress a horse physically, but they can cause him to burn out mentally before you even hit the show circuit. Changing up your daily routine not only keeps a horse emotionally “fresh” but challenges various part of his body physically.

Transport Whether your first big event of spring is a clinic, show or organized trail ride, chances are you’ll need to trailer to the Massachusetts Horse

9

Gear Spend an afternoon going through and inspecting your gear, from tack to buckets to sheets to grooming tools. Even if you 10

April/May 2017

©2017 ShawnaLee Kwashnak, shawnalee.com

location. Don’t wait until the day before to give your rig a once-over, though. An unsafe or unusable trailer will make all your horse-specific preparations for naught.

If you’re not mechanically savvy, you may want a mechanic to take a look at your trailer if it has been parked all winter. If you’re comfortable doing the inspection yourself, however, you can work through the vehicle on your own, looking for trouble spots.

Start by ensuring the hitch is still easy to operate and that the welds that attach it to the trailer look solid. Any cracks are a serious concern and need to be addressed before you do any transport.

Next, walk around the trailer to check the tires. Dry rot may have set in over the winter. You’ll recognize it by tiny cracks in the rubber. Tires with dry rot need to be replaced, as do any with treads worn down to less than a quarterinch deep. If the tires appear to be in good shape, make sure they are inflated to the correct PSI, which should be listed on the sidewall.

Inspect the ramp, making sure it’s easy to raise and lower and is extremely steady underfoot. Look for corrosion in the springs and hinges. Similarly, swing all doors and windows to see whether they move easily.

Make sure the floors are solid.

Manure and urine left over winter can cause wood floors to rot and metal to rust. Use a screwdriver to check the integrity of both types of floor; if the tip goes into the material, it needs to be replaced.

With a friend’s help, test the brake lights and turn signals.

Then check that your trailer breakaway line is secure and works so that should your trailer separate from your truck while on the road, your trailer will safely come to a stop.

Finally, make sure your horse still loads willingly. If he was a hesitant loader before his winter break, he may have fallen into bad habits. Even a seasoned traveler could do well with a reminder session before you’re running late on the morning of an event.

If you trailer long distances or frequently, ask your veterinarian about your horse’s risk of gastric ulcers and whether he may need medication on trailering days.

think it was in good shape when you stowed it last fall, you may not have noticed early signs of failure, or its condition may have deteriorated over the past few months.

Lay out your horse’s summer wardrobe over a fence line. This airs the items out while giving you a chance to notice any signs of rodents who overwintered in their depths. Check sheets, saddle pads, traveling boots, and other such garments. Wash any that seem less than clean and make arrangements to repair and replace items as necessary.

Do the same with your grooming tools. Lay them out, clean them up and repack your box with the coming activities in mind.

Now’s also a good time to order fly spray so you’re not caught without it on the first buggy day of the year.

Then check season-specific equipment that may have gone unused over the winter. The water containers you keep in the trailer, for instance, may have cracked in the cold. You’ll want to know that now, not when you’re loading up to hit the road.

It’s especially important to scrutinize tack closely. A failure of a stirrup or girth can be dangerous. Check every

spot where leather meets metal; tack often fails at these stress points. Any cracking or tearing is cause for replacement. Tug, wiggle and pull all hardware, looking for signs of insecurity or weakness. Also inspect stitching and lacing, which is typically an easy-enough repair, assuming the leather itself is still in good condition.

The adage, “If you fail to plan you plan to fail,” might seem a little overwrought when talking about a return to riding this spring, but there’s certainly some truth to the admonition. An easy transition from idle to active with your horse involves many steps, variables, and opportunities for things to go amiss, so the sooner you can start, the more time you’ll have to reach your goal. Then, when you enter the ring or head down the trails, those weeks for preparation will pay off.

This article was first published in the March 2015 issue of EQUUS magazine, volume #450 and is reprinted with permission. To subscribe to EQUUS Magazine visit equusmagazine.com or call (800) 829-5910.

Charles Cerrone Outstanding Halter Amateur Horseperson Feature

Worcester

by Andrea Bugbee

T

it wasn’t for my trainer, Don McDuffee and his wife Brenda, I’d be nobody.”

Back in the Day

Charlie, the son of a police officer and a nurse, grew up in central Massachusetts competing in western equitation in the 1950s. He started out on a 13.2-hand

Cody Parmenter

here are three things that make Charlie Cerrone’s blue eyes sparkle: horses, his grandchildren, and driving a Lexus.

Charlie’s young grandchildren fill his Worcester home with their delightful little chaos every Tuesday, and this “Papa Charlie” will probably own a Lexus for as long as he owns a car (honestly, he brings lunch to the Lexus of Northborough employees six times a year because he likes them so much). But horses have been Charlie’s passion since he was a boy. In 2013, after a 47-year pause punctuated with work and other pursuits, Charlie once again placed a white cowboy hat on his graying head and, by the end of the season, he was named the Justin Boot Company Massachusetts Amateur Halter Rookie of the Year and the American Quarter Horse Association Reserve Rookie of the Year.

Four years later, Charlie’s basement recreation room has two walls completely covered in grand champion ribbons earned in halter competitions.

Pointing to a sleek row of trophies, he says, “Four of those are high point trophies, and one is reserve high point. I have 254 grand champion ribbons and 84 reserve champion ribbons. There’s a box behind the couch with more plaques and ribbons.”

“Yeah,” Charlie’s nephew says, teasing Charlie. He stopped by to help Charlie with a quick home maintenance chore. “He doesn’t like to hang all those other ribbons with the funny colors!”

The two men, comfortable and laughing, rib each other. Each has the broad, lazy “r” practically genetic to “Wust-ah” natives.

Serious again, Charlie immediately shares the credit for his outstanding success. “I’ve been very fortunate,” he says.

“I’m not bragging, I’m just very, very proud of all my horses have done, and if

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April/May 2017

Hackney pony and quickly acquired a voracious appetite for winning.

“When I was 13 years old, my horse slipped in the mud while I was loping him,” Charlie says. “He fell on top of me and I broke two bones in my foot. They used to do a section in the Worcester paper called ‘Teen Topics,’ and they did an article on me — because I showed with a cast on.”

Fast forward to 1966, when Charlie was 18 and full of youthful self-assurance. “I bought this gelding from a woman who lived in Des Moines, Iowa,” he says. “I made arrangements to meet her in Fort Worth, Texas, which, at the time, was the largest Quarter Horse show in the country.”

A trainer/friend from Connecticut was supposed to meet Charlie at the show, but was delayed by a blizzard. As a replacement, a well-known professional named Pat Lemon offered to show the horse, Sonora Sorrell, for Charlie. “I said no, I’m going to show him. There were thirty-six aged geldings in my class, and thirty-five professional horsemen/trainers and one cocky, eighteen-year-old kid,”

Charlie says, poking fun at himself. “There were six judges. They pulled me out and put me first. I was grand champion.”

Charlie was a champion, but he was also now a busy adult. He spent the next 47 years working for the New England Power Company, then the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and finally as a game warden. While moonlighting one night as a bartender, a beer bottle exploded in a box Charlie was carrying, lodging a shard of glass in his right eye. The injury required four excruciating stitches.

Then, as a game warden, he hauled a log off a roadway and ruptured a vertebral disc so badly it required surgery, eventually forcing him to retire.

Charlie’s eye healed, but, because of the back surgery, he no longer rides. In entering the world of halter competition, however, this Quarter Horse loving retiree has found the perfect way to show.

Hard Work and Fast Friends

“Charlie’s very determined to do his thing, and that’s to go out and show and win, like the rest of us,” says Charlie’s buddy, Skip Sholder of Linden, Pennsylvania. Skip is a retired professional trainer who now shows as an amateur. He met Charlie at a show several years ago in Cobleskill, New York. “I had been winning a lot, and Charlie came to me that day, congratulated me on my grand championships, and introduced himself. We’ve been great friends ever since.”

“We’ve had a lot of fun together, the two of us,” says Skip, who initially began describing Charlie with a belly laugh and the words, “Oh man, that guy?” Over the years, Skip and Charlie have shared frank ideas, honest advice, lots of horse stories, and many good times.

Charlie’s relationship with Alma, Michigan, trainer Mike Sinko is a similar

blend of helpful and playful. “We’ll talk about baseball teams and the Patriots — Tom Brady is from Michigan, you know — but we always get serious when we talk about horses,” Mike says.

As a relative newcomer to halter showing, both Skip and Mike credit Charlie with being a hard worker with the focus and stamina to learn and do all he can to win. “Most people get into this, and then they get out and they never get back,” Mike says. But when Charlie sent Mike a list of his short and long-term goals for halter showing, Mike says, “I knew the man was serious about what he was going to do.”

Casey and Sarge

After a couple of false starts looking for the ideal Quarter Horse for halter competition, outgoing Charlie approached halter horse breeder, trainer, and judge, Don McDuffee at the American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio. “Charlie said he was looking for a horse that would be competitive, sound, and easy to show,” Don says.

“I told him, ‘Everyone’s going to say they have one of those, but I really do.’ ” The horse that Don sold Charlie was a sorrel gelding with a sprinkling of roan. He has a broad white blaze, one long, flashy boot behind, and a rose blossom of white on his right front knee.

This well-mannered gelding is registered as Broker Special (but called Casey) and, with Don as his trainer and Charlie owning and showing him, Casey was the 2014 American Quarter Horse Association High Point Halter Gelding.

“He’s a really, really nice horse,” says Don, dotingly. “He’s earned 900 points and over 300 grand championships. I didn’t want some young kid taking this horse. So he’s with me, retired to Florida now. He’s out in the sunshine.”

Even though Casey is retired (Charlie transferred his ownership back to Don), Charlie remains prominent in the show ring. He has a new horse, a fiveyear-old Quarter Horse gelding called Hez Packing Heat, or Sarge, purchased from Jeffrey Eldon Pait of Aiken, South Carolina.

This new competitor has splashy white socks in front, leggy boots behind, “ . . . and he has a beautiful, beautiful blaze on his face,” Charlie says, holding out a picture. Physically, Sarge resembles Casey, but that’s where their similarity ends. “Casey has a great disposition.

Sarge is young. He thinks he’s a baby still,” Charlie says. Usually, Sarge’s impetuousness makes him appear bright and alert for the judges. Occasionally,

however, it’s a distraction. Regardless, in 2016, Hez Packing Heat placed second in the nation.

Like Casey, Sarge lives on Don’s farm in Ocala, and Charlie keeps himself busy traveling up and down the East Coast. As early as December, Charlie softens his Worcester winter by competing at Florida and Georgia horse shows.

With a bounty of prize belt buckles, sweatshirts, show coolers, gift certificates, and jackets, Charlie’s basement is a veritable pirate’s cave full of Quarter Horse booty — much of which he donates to youth organizations. He keeps meticulous records of all the shows he enters and how his horses place, and, whether he’s traveling on the show circuit or chasing grandbabies in Worcester, Charlie Cerrone seems a bit like his young horse, Sarge — always competitive, but plenty playful, too.

Some shows, for example, are four to six days long. At these events, Charlie grooms, exercises, and shows his horse, but, he says, flipping to an 8 x 10 photo in his record book, “You see what we do when we have spare time?” He points to a group of about a dozen people, Charlie amongst them. They are male and female, young and old(er), clustered conversationally, relaxing in lawn chairs, sipping drinks, socializing. All are smiling. Like Charlie, they are content to be surrounded by beautiful horses and pleasant people who share their passion.

Charlie is crystal clear about the most important wisdom he’s gained over the past few years on the halter circuit.

“I’ve learned two things by showing,” he says simply. “One is to have fun out there.

The other is to make lifelong friends.”

Andrea Bugbee is a Pony Club mom, an IEA mom, and a backyard horse enthusiast. She does most of her writing while she waits for her daughter in the parking lots of numerous wonderful stables scattered throughout western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut.

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Trailers 2017

Brands we carry Abady Alpo Poulin Blue Seal Precise Canidae Pro Plan Diamond Purina Eukanuba Purina Mills Friskies Science Diet Iams Sensible Choice Kaytee Solid Gold Merrick Triple Crown Natural Balance Triumph Nature’s Recipe Wellness Neura Whiskas Nutrena Nutro Wild and caged bird Wysong and small animal feed.

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Massachusetts Horse

13

Emerald Hill Farm Hard Work, Consistency, and Fairness Farm Feature

Essex

by Holly Jacobson

C

(Vermont, Saugerties, Princeton, Saratoga) and enjoy local venues like Fieldstone and Myopia.

Claudia stresses they never do more than one to two weeks away at shows since turnout for the horses is critical.

Jade Gedeon

laudia von Gumppenberg first fell in love with New England when scouting for potential horse properties in the United States. When she saw the historic Emerald Hill Farm in Essex, she had a vision for its potential and restoration. She bought the farm in 2011.

The farm goes back to the 1800s and Claudia wanted to keep the old charm but add the comfort and features of a competitive show barn. In the short time she’s owned Emerald Hill, Claudia has completely remodeled the three barns (22 stalls total), the rings, added GGT (German Geo Textile) indoor footing, put in outdoor tack stalls, updated the tack rooms and a lounge area, and added landscaping. Her background in interior design shows in the details and choices she’s made — everything is both tasteful and functional.

Claudia was dating trainer Niko von Gumppenberg in Germany and after a year of long-distance romance, they were married, and he joined her at Emerald Hill Farm in December 2013. They opened for business in early 2014.

Claudia grew up in Germany on her family’s 400-acre Bavarian Warmblood breeding farm riding, training, and eventually, managing the farm. Her focus continues to be on young horses and handling the business side of the operation.

Niko ran a large show barn in Germany with clients showing from one meter to grand prix jumping and he was eager to offer his training approach to U.S. riders. His style is defined by dressage and flatwork, lots of gymnastics, and building up horse and rider from the base using the principles of the training scale.

“A proper base and knowledge to us is a step that cannot be skipped,” says Claudia. “We believe in hard work, consistency, and fairness to your horse as your equal partner.”

Most of Emerald Hill’s current clients are jumper riders with a little bit of equitation and some crossover in the hunter rings. Niko and Claudia target most of the big East Coast summer shows

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April/May 2017

“My idea of horsekeeping is finding a happy medium between our horses being athletes and showing and not being bubble wrapped or not being allowed to be a horse,” says Claudia. “Lots of turnout is very important to us.”

Emerald Hill attracts boarders who agree with that approach and encourages owners to be hands on with horse care, such as hand grazing at horse shows and care at home. However, if a client has other commitments and needs to be hands off, they can accommodate that as well.

Along with a custom-made training program for clients, Claudia and Niko have trusted contacts in Germany to select horses for clients. “We’re lucky to have grown up in the equestrian industry over there and have the opportunities to

look at smaller barns with very nice sale horses at good prices,” says Claudia.

Emerald Hill also imports sale horses and takes young horses in for training.

Claudia says she likes to take her time and not rush horses, or riders, through the sales process.

Fundamental Training

“My goal is to make my students successful in the show ring but also help them to truly understand their horse’s mind and body,” says Niko. “Good horsemanship is an important piece of my approach to achieving this harmony.”

Whitney Van Dyke calls her Emerald Hill Farm experience “truly transformational.” As an adult amateur returning to the sport after more than two decades away, and doing so with a fairly green and spirited Welsh Cob named Max, Whitney says, “We had our work cut out for us.”

Whitney credits Niko’s advanced understanding of physiology and sports psychology that enables him to offer deep insights into both the mental and physical sides of riding.

“Personally, learning a European seat has been fundamental to my improvement and has offered me so many new ways to understand balance, bend, propulsion, and energy,” she says.

“As a trainer, Niko is with you every step of the way, literally and figuratively,” says Whitney. “He’s attuned to every gesture and movement and offers just the right amount of encouragement, guidance, and direction.”

Whitney describes the training program as incredibly confidence boosting and highly effective, and also appreciates Niko’s pro rides. “There’s nothing that makes your heart grow ten times its size than seeing your horse ridden by a grand prix trainer and getting to see your horse’s fullest potential unlocked before your eyes.”

Elise Kelley has been at Emerald Hill for three years. She started boarding her two daughters’ Connemara pony gelding, Wintervale Rune, and has now added a

Bavarian Warmblood gelding, Casiro Incipit, for herself.

“I bought Casiro with Niko and Claudia last February and he’s the fourlegged love of my life,” Elise says. Her youngest daughter , who’s 12, will be competing in the 2' to 2'3" divisions and if all goes well, the Children’s Hunter Pony division by the end of the summer.

Elise plans to compete in the Adult Hunters and Equitation with the aim of stepping into the Amateur Owner divisions.

“The heart of any program for competing riders, or any rider for that matter, is the training because at the end of the day we all want to do our best,” says Elise.

“Niko is unbelievably gifted at strengthening a horse and rider’s abilities in ways best suited for each particular athlete, horse and rider alike. This type of experience fosters an immense amount of trust in your trainer and that is invaluable.”

Elise also praises the benefits of Niko’s German background. “We’re taught how to authentically flat a horse, which is really the backbone to everything,” Elise says. “The emphasis on dressage training helps us learn how to create the strength and energy necessary through the proper use of all of our riding aids to effectively take on a course of jumps.”

Niko often utilizes poles and cavaletti that provide a great bridge between flat and jumping lessons. Elise describes his training as “very thoughtful, methodical, and fluid.”

Building Community

The farm environment is calm, beautiful, and highly professional, which puts both horse and rider in the perfect frame of mind to work and to learn.

“This is a barn where everyone is working to up their game and consistently improving their practice,” Whitney says. “It’s a dedicated group of riders who are bound by a shared passion. There’s a cooperative goodwill, upbeat energy, and genuinely supportive relationship among the boarders, owners, and staff that makes coming to the barn, even on cold nights in the dead of winter, a joy.”

No program or farm will fit everyone but the current group of Emerald Hill’s clientele are very satisfied with a topnotch facility that has spacious stalls, plenty of turnout, quality feed and hay, and all agree that Claudia has done an outstanding job of hiring great people to help her run the day to day workings of the farm.

“There isn’t a schooling program so everyone here owns their own horse, which creates a very quiet and committed group of like-minded individuals,” says Elise. “We all help each other out and enjoy each other’s company.”

Elise also likes the ability to be involved in the day-to-day life of her horses in terms of making decisions on vetting, shoeing, etc. Some places require that you use their specific vet or farrier but that’s not the case here. “Claudia and Niko are always available for advice but certainly don’t make any decisions for us,” says Elise. “That’s really important to me because I like learning and experiencing everything having to do with ownership.”

Elise is the only one with a child at the barn, at least right now, and says everyone is amazing to her daughter.

“She’s twelve and fits right in around the farm and at shows,” says Elise. “Claudia and Niko have definitely taken her under their wing and it’s been such a positive experience.”

HORSES SMALL ANIMALS EXOTICS ACUPUNCTURE CHIROPRACTIC HOMEOPATHY PHYSICAL THERAPY

Extra Perks

The farm also has a high-end, beautifully furnished apartment for weekly rental during the summer and fall season.

Emerald Hill’s maddeningly cute Miniature horse mascot, Clementine, from Equine Rescue Network, holds her own turned out with two towering Warmbloods. Claudia also brought her rescued retired mare Montana from Germany as she’s one of her forever heart horses. In addition, she keeps four jumpers, two of which are for lease and two she shows herself.

Whitney Van Dyke and other Emerald Hill boarders agree that Claudia and Niko bring a distinct style, sophistication, and sensibility to the Massachusetts horse scene. Their European approach to training and care adds a new dimension and fresh offerings for serious equestrians. As a couple, their skills complement one another and they’re both tirelessly dedicated to building and developing an exemplary equestrian facility on the North Shore.

“We’ve established a wonderful clientele at our barn who all believe in great care and proper effort in training,” says Claudia. “It’s a pleasure to work with people so dedicated and committed to their animals and their goals in the sport.”

Holly Jacobson, a freelance writer, lives in Essex County, teaching her retired Quarter Horse tricks while she pursues new goals in para dressage and para reining.

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Massachusetts Horse

15

Quirky New Behavior? There’s a Reason for It Horse Logic

by Nicole Birkholzer

I

Chance and Danny

about horse herd dynamics: how tuned s there anything more puzzling than in each horse is with the other, how your horse displaying a new behavBarbara booked a reading with me they sense minute shifts within the ior that you don’t understand? because her two mares Chance and physical and emotional body, and how When it’s a playful move we usually Danny weren’t getting along. When I much that matters to the safety of the don’t mind, but when our horse is sudtuned in to the two, Chance expressed herd. These mares were not fighting; denly aggressive toward his paddock that she was part of a herd of three and they were actually taking care of each mate, shies away when we approach another mare (Danny) was trying to other. with the saddle, or doesn’t want to take over her leadership position. enter the indoor arena while lessons are Chance was not going to let that hapgoing on . . . we’ve a problem. pen. Barbara confirmed this, and said June called hoping I could do an emerWhen our horse is laid up due to hooves were flying and bites were gency reading. Her pony Oreo had an injury we wonder if she’s bored. dished out on a regular basis. I asked been uncomfortable with colic sympWhen our toms for a pony is at few days, the equine and her veterinarhospital we ian had worry if he’s suggested anxious.

June take And, when Oreo to we bring a an equine new horse hospital. into our She had herd we dropped worry how Oreo off they will all the night get along. before so These are he could the moments be on when we 24/7 wish our watch, The herd of Cat, Little Rasta Man, Caszual, and Peanut back to normal after an animal communication session. but was horses could Danny why she fought so hard for leadstill concerned about how Oreo was talk. ership.

She shared that she felt Chance feeling.

Your horse always has a reason for When I tuned in to Oreo, the first its behavior; it’s up to us to find the rea- was sidetracked and not fully focused; thus, she wanted to take over the leadword that popped into my mind was son and then remedy the situation to ership position to keep the herd safe. I content, which I reported to June. She the best of our ability. The good news is tuned back in to Chance and scanned took a deep breath and asked if I felt he there’s a way to find out what’s going her body. Her lower back was tight, and was scared. I told her I got the sense on: A professional animal communicashe felt like she wanted to buck to that Oreo was glad to be pampered. He tor can help you connect with your loosen up. shared that at his barn he was caring for horse. In most instances your horse will As so often happens, not only did his herd, while here at the hospital he be more than willing to share his the horses explain the situation, felt he and all the other horses were thoughts and offer solutions on how Chance also gave Barbara a hint how being cared for. she could remedy the situation. In you can help, solve, or rectify what’s At that point in our conversation order to restore peace in the herd going on. the equine hospital called, so June and Barbara needed to address the tension What I love about my work as an I got off the phone. When June called me back a few minutes later, she told animal communicator is that you — the in Chance’s lower back. When I sent Chance a few pictures of different body me that the veterinarians were happy horse owner — can get the horse’s work modalities to see if there was one with Oreo’s improving condition, and point of view on the situation and that she would be receptive to, she relaxed that he seemed very content in his stall. can guide you to providing your horse the most with equine massage. This June laughed as she shared the last senwith the care he needs. In many cases, gave Barbara a great start on helping tence and said, “But we knew that the solutions are simple and can easily both of her horses. already.” be remedied.

In this case, we learned something June asked if I could check in with

Oreo

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April/May 2017

Oreo on a daily basis to see how he was feeling and to let her know if he needed anything from her. Thankfully, Oreo was able to return home just a few days later. June called and said, “I was so glad to have the veterinarians and you by my side. They took care of Oreo’s body, while you and I could make sure he was mentally and emotionally ok.”

Little Rasta Man

Stephanie booked an appointment because she felt her blind Miniature horse Little Rasta Man was not well.

The night before, Rasta and the rest of his herd got spooked during a thunderstorm and galloped to the barn for shelter. The loud noise had confused Rasta’s sense of direction causing him to run through the three-rail wooden fence. (A physical exam showed no injuries but he was probably bruised and in some pain.) The next day Stephanie sensed that her herd was still unsettled and wondered if Rasta was more affected by the crash through the fence than she had initially thought.

When I stepped into the paddock, the horses were gathered near the barn.

I focused on Rasta, who sniffed my hand for a second, and then moved to

the outskirts of the herd. Within moments, Cat, one of the Haflinger mares, took Rasta’s spot near me. When I put my hands on Cat’s body a wave of guilt washed over me. I asked Cat to explain. She quickly offered me pictures of the herd running up the hill toward the barn in the storm. She showed me how Rasta went too far left and crashed through the fence. She felt she should have stayed closer to him to help him find his way, and that she had let Rasta down.

I took a few deep breaths, moved my hands around Cat’s body, then offered her some therapeutic essential oils and invited her to release the stress of the experience and of the emotions that were stored in her body. Moments later Cat took a few deep breaths and yawned several times, both signs of relaxation. After a long exhale blowing out through her nose, Cat walked off and joined the other horses in the pasture. Our session was done.

While Stephanie was concerned that Rasta was the one who was not well, it was Cat who could not get past the incident. A few hours later Stephanie reported that all was back to normal in the herd.

We love our horses and are willing to do all we can to make them happy. It’s only natural that we would want to get to the root of unusual and unwanted new behaviors, and understand how our horse feels during challenging times.

By working with a reputable animal communicator we can understand the world from our horse’s point of view, gain insights, find solutions, and get peace of mind.

Choosing a Communicator

A reputable animal communicator is trained and certified by an expert in the field. She stays neutral and does not project her own ideas onto the animal.

Her dedication to the profession evident by a good reputation and strong referrals.

Next time you’re puzzled by something you’re seeing in your horse, give an animal communicator a call. You might be surprised by what you learn!

Nicole Birkholzer is a horse advocate, animal communication expert, and the author of Pet Logic. Nicole is pioneering a new approach to horsemanship where horses are honored as soul companions and partners. To learn more about Nicole’s services go to nicolebirkholzer.com.

Massachusetts Horse

17

Willaway Farm

David Blad Photography

Build the Dream

Lisa Valone lives on the 14-acre Willaway Farm just 20 minutes west of Boston. “We have four horses right now,” says Lisa. “They’re all warmbloods — one Oldenburg, one Swedish Warmblood, and two Dutch Warmbloods. I compete in hunters and equitation. I also train in dressage.

Primarily, I enjoy the lifestyle — I’m just as happy making up the grain and grooming as I am riding and showing.

Trail riding around the property on a glorious sun-filled day is pretty amazing!”

Lisa worked with A & B Barns to build her dream barn.

18 April/May 2017

Q. Why did you choose A & B Barns?

A. I met with several different designers and builders. Each offered something slightly different — some were just designers, some just builders, some offered the full gamut. In the end, it was about the personal relationship.

Charlie Noyes from A & B Barns really listened to what I had to say. He seemed to understand what I wanted, he understood my budget and my priorities, and he clearly had the experience to pull everything together in an economical way. Sometimes you just have to go with your gut.

Q. What were the most important barn features you wanted?

A. The two most important things were functionality and aesthetics — perhaps functionality was a higher priority for me and aesthetics was a higher priority for my husband, who doesn’t ride and isn’t involved with the horses.

Functionally, I wanted the indoor ring to connect to the barn, I wanted good ventilation, and a climate controlled tack room. A large hay loft with trap doors to drop down the hay was definitely high on the list! Last, I designed the barn with twelve 12' x 12' stalls but I knew generally I would have four to six

horses in the barn. I had the stalls designed so we could take out the panels between stalls to easily turn them into 12' x 24' stalls. The flooring is one continuous piece of rubber so there’s no seam, which allows an easy transition between 12' x 12', 12' x 24', and even 12' x 36' if I want it!

Aesthetically, we wanted the structure to fit with the character of our property. Our house was already on the property. The house and barn are not immediately adjacent — as you come down the driveway you see the barn first and then the house comes into view as you pass the barn. We wanted the structures to complement each other but have separate characters.

Q. What would you do differently if you built another barn?

A. I would have put radiant heat in the floor of the barn and installed automatic waterers in the stalls. When I think of myself doing barn chores in another 20 years, I know that these will be a necessity! At the time I built the barn, the overall cost for everything from paddock fencing to bathroom plumbing was overwhelming. I wish I had installed the floor heat and the automatic waterers and sacrificed some-

thing else that could have more readily been added at a later date.

Q. What’s the most important recommendation you have for someone planning to build a barn?

A. Talk to several vendors, talk to their references, and make sure you are comfortable with the person you will work with day in and day out.

Think long term — put in the pipes for automatic waterers even if you don’t get the waterers now. Adding something like radiant heat or underground pipes after the fact, especially in our area where the temperatures fall below freezing through the winter, is very costly.

Charlie Noyes has been a design, estimation, and sales expert with A & B Barns for 32 years.

“This has been my whole career,” says Charlie. “I started while in college.

Projects I’ve completed have ranged from sheds, barns for Miniature horses to draft horses, renovations, to indoor stable facilities. There’s not been two projects exactly the same!”

Q. Why should someone hire a professional horse barn builder?

A. Experience and knowledge provide safety and security, as well as design quality with efficiency and satisfaction.

Q. What’s the most requested feature in the barns you build?

A. Properly designed stalls and layout.

Q. What was your favorite part of this barn project?

A. Working together with Lisa and her team to reach the goal of a facility fit specifically to her vision and needs.

Q. What’s the one piece of advice you offer everyone starting a barn project?

A. Let design be determined by the given parameters of the property, rather than forcing a design onto it. This ensures it works with you, not against you indefinitely.

Q. What’s your favorite barn project and why?

A. Usually, the one just completed.

There’s such peace knowing a client is satisfied and that their treasures are cared for. Each one has a story!

Want to see a barn featured here? Email barns@mahorse.com.

Massachusetts Horse

19

Weston Trails Trail Guide

Weston

by Stacey Stearns

W

on weekdays or online for $10. I used the map on the website and chose Jericho Town Forest as my destination.

It has an area of 505 acres connecting to other conserved land. On weston.org/489/Weston-Trail-Maps, I found maps with parking areas and trails that were easy to print and save to my smartphone.

Stacey Stearns

eston is a town in the Boston suburbs, and although it’s not heavily populated, the town is approximately the same size geographically as neighboring Newton. Land conservation in Weston began in 1953, and the town owns and maintains more than 2,200 acres of open space — it’s a model in protecting trails and natural resources.

Stone walls line the streets of Weston, and there are stone buildings in the center of town, adding to its Bay State charm. The Norumbega Tower is also located in Weston, at the confluence of the Stony Brook and Charles Rivers — marking the site of Fort Norumbega, a fabled Norse settlement. The tower is 38feet tall and made of field stones.

The Weston Forest and Trail Association (WFTA) was incorporated in 1955 to preserve land and access for residents and other nature lovers, including equestrians. The organization owns 189 acres, with 18 miles of trails, and maintains another 100 miles of trails on public land. The WFTA conducts education and outreach on conservation, and hosts trail walks on the first Sunday of the month, from October through May. Ann Wiedie, a resident of Weston, and an equestrian, serves as a trustee of WFTA. “Most open space in Weston has limited road frontage, so trail heads are not often near convenient parking,” says Ann. “My home backs up to the Highland Forest and I ride there a lot.”

Access and Resources

Although a map is available on WFTA’s website, westonforesttrail.org/specialplaces, it’s difficult to read, as it’s a large map — two feet by three feet — reduced to fit on a computer screen.

Maps can be purchased at the town hall 20

April/May 2017

One neat feature available at weston.org/1026/Trails-Online is a link to a zoom and follow map. If you use the version on the website in MapsOnline on your smartphone, it shows where you are and helps you navigate through the woods.

Anyone can become a member of WFTA or donate to support the trails.

Report any trail problems you see (email mchk@verizon.net), as the association has a maintenance employee.

Purchasing a copy of the map also supports the organization. “Storm damage

cleanup, water bars to control erosion, and bridges are some of the many examples of improvements the association has made, although the bridges aren’t horse safe,” Ann says.

Jericho Town Forest is the only place where off-street parking is available. The Ruth B. Dickson Memorial Rings are also located on Concord Road, and are home to the Weston-Wayland Open Spring Horse Show every May and an annual fall hunter pace. Other parking for Jericho Forest is located at Gun Club Lane, Ripley Lane, Sudbury Road, and Merriam Street but none are good for horse trailers.

“Weston 4-H Club, founded in 1949, was the first 4-H horse club in Massachusetts, and in 1963 new rings in the Jericho Forest were named in memory of Ruth Dickson, an avid horsewoman in town,” Ann says.

“There are two rings, and a small cross-country course. If you decide to use it, be cautious though, the fences aren’t maintained throughout the year, only for the horse show and hunter pace.” Heels and helmets are required at all times while at the Dickson Rings. You can find more information on the horse show, hunter pace, and directions to the location at westonshows.com.

When the gates are closed, there’s parking available at the rings for a few two-horse trailers and from there you can connect with the trails. The entry to the rings is adjacent to the mailboxes for 296 and 298 Concord Road, if you want to use GPS. The Dickson Rings are in the middle of a residential area; be respectful of private property. Arrive early; it’s a popular location.

If there isn’t room at the Dickson Memorial Rings — the gates are closed unless it’s one of their events — there’s ample parking available just down the street at Burchard Field. If you park at Burchard Field, go right out the drive-

way and you’ll find the Dickson rings just down the street on the left. There’s a short trail on the right as you exit the driveway of Burchard Park which will shorten the distance on Concord Road on your way to the rings, but be cautious, Concord Road is narrow and cars travel fast.

Burchard has restroom facilities, but they’re not open in the off-season.

There’s a water pump between the two rings at Dickson, but I didn’t test it, and it’s likely not potable for human consumption. Bring water for you and your horse. This is also a Lyme tick area so take proper precautions.

Horseback riding is discouraged on the Weston trails during wet seasons, when trails are subject to damage.

“When it’s wet, don’t go out there,” Ann says. “If you see a lot of mud, turn around and find another place to ride.”

A quick glance at a map shows many swampy areas — it’s best to ride here during dry weather.

The trails are heavily used by other trail users, including cyclists, dog walkers, and hikers. Bay State equestrians should be courteous and attentive to other trail users. Carry out trash, and leave no trace. Kick any manure off the trail and always clean up around your trailer. There are a lot of dog walkers out on the trails, including licensed dog walkers, with up to five dogs each. If your horse isn’t dog savvy, this isn’t a good place for you to ride.

Out Riding It

Trails are marked with small white squares that have a green pine tree with a W under them. Where necessary, the markers also have an arrow pointing in

the direction(s) of the trail. Trail markers are also labeled with a number or letter at key intersections. Many of the trails in Jericho Town Forest make large loops, and cross over each other and this is where having a map is useful.

“There are a lot of fire roads and single track trails at Jericho Town Forest. You can ride for a few hours and you need a map as you can get lost in there,” Ann says.

There are also trails in the area around Burchard Park and College Pond, if you’re looking to extend the distance of your ride.

The wide trails are lined with pine trees, and pine needles blanket the forest floor. A few rocks and tree roots pop through, so hoof protection is recommended. The sun peaks through the pine trees and spotlights sections of trail. Enjoying a quiet ride in the woods, one can’t help but be thankful to the trailblazers from Weston who preserved the land.

Happy riding!

Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.

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21

Granby

Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue at Friends of Noah Farm Lend a Hoof

by Alessandra Mele

M

“I rescued a donkey in the midarianne Lemelin had been nineties from a horrible situation. I watching the driveway at called him Eeyore. I get a little teary just Friends of Noah Farm all day, thinking of him,” Marianne says brimming with excitement in the August heat. She went about her chores, through misty eyes, remembering his soft ears and gentle eyes. “Unfortunately feeding her beloved donkeys and he’s no longer with us, but in the time horses, stroking their ears and musing we spent together he taught me so to them about the gift that would surely much about love, compassion, and forarrive any minute. Finally, a truck towgiveness. I would say he rescued me.” ing a full stock trailer came into view, When Eeyore passed away six years Texas license plates looking rather forago after a long and happy life with eign in Granby. In tow were 15 donkeys of all shapes and sizes, exhausted from a Marianne and Patrick (his donkey comvery long journey.

Marianne’s heart leapt.

Descending from the well-traveled trailer, the herd of donkeys took in their new surroundings, relieved by the peace and quiet, and eager to enjoy the generous amount of hay that awaited them. Some had experienced neglect, others had been roaming wild, and others abused.

They were brought to this western Massachusetts sanctuary by Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, the nation’s leading donkey rescue organization. Marianne runs a satellite adoption center out of her farm, and this was Cole and Hiccup. her first group of eagerly awaited donkeys. She welcomed them to panion), she felt an empty space that safety with an open heart, gentle hand, couldn’t be filled. “It was as if a part of my and big plans. soul had died,” she says, remembering.

Last year, Marianne, her husband Dan, and her son Cole felt it was time to Marianne’s love for donkeys began add another donkey to their family. nearly 20 years before the day 15 of They heard that Mark Meyers, executive them arrived in her driveway. director of Peaceful Valley Donkey “I’ve always loved donkeys!” she Rescue (PVDR), was going to be at a says, “They can be very misunderstood farm nearby in Connecticut holding an creatures. A lot of people think donkeys open house for donkey adoptions, and are stubborn, but that’s just not true. they decided to go learn more. “We They’re big thinkers; they’re so smart. ended up adopting two donkeys that They never want to put themselves, or day!” Marianne says, laughing. you, in harm’s way, and so they take The even larger outcome of that their time to process things. Once you fateful visit was the connection are a part of their donkey family, they Marianne and her family developed will love you forever.” with PVDR. It was the unconditional love of one “That day, we really fell in love with donkey in particular that inspired what PVDR stood for and wanted to get Marianne to devote her life to helping more involved,” she says. “We ended up donkeys.

A Passion for Donkeys

22

April/May 2017

talking with Mark and learned about how we could help foster their donkeys.

The result was he made us the official Massachusetts satellite adoption center for the organization and our journey began!”

Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue: From Texas to Massachusetts

The organization the Lemelins have aligned themselves with has a long reputation of excellence in donkey welfare.

PVDR, based in San Angelo, Texas, has rescued over 8,000 donkeys in the 16 years it’s been in operation. It currently has more than 3,200 donkeys in its care across the country.

PVDR’s mission is to “provide a safe and loving environment to all donkeys that have been abused, neglected, or abandoned as well as wild burros under the threat of destruction.”

The 172-acre ranch in San Angelo provides sanctuary to nearly 1,000 donkeys at any given time, and more than 30 satellite adoption centers nationwide help house and find homes for even more.

Marianne is very proud to be a part of that effort. She’s witnessed the work that PVDR is doing, and wants to do all she can to help.

“Last October, PVDR hosted an event for satellite adoption centers at the main ranch in Texas,” says Marianne. “Dan and I were able to go and see firsthand the work they’re doing to help so many donkeys. It was amazing. We feel so honored to be affiliated with an organization doing such good work for animals.”

Following the example of the main ranch, Marianne, Dan, and Cole have created a sanctuary for donkeys in need at their farm in Granby and apply the same philosophies. A large run-in shed and fenced-in paddocks offer a safe spot for the foster donkeys to graze, relax, and socialize.

The family’s peaceful five acres offer PVDR donkeys a quiet, comfortable place to transition before they find their forever homes. Marianne’s own donkeys and horses take great interest in their long-eared neighbors hailing from Texas. “They look out for each other and talk back and forth to one another. It’s pretty cute!” Marianne says.

Beyond providing an adoption center for PVDR donkeys, Marianne and Dan feel it’s important to help support the organization.

“The PVDR ranch asks that we send it bills for hay and other essentials, but after witnessing the work it’s doing for such an incredible number of donkeys, there’s no way we could do that,” Marianne says. “Instead, we like to fundraise to help with the costs of caring for these donkeys. We’re hoping to raise even more funds this year.”

PVDR was recently the beneficiary of a large tack sale at Independence Stables in Belchertown, and Marianne would like to pursue similar efforts in order to help in any way that they can.

Finding Homes for Donkeys

Marianne is pleased that all of the donkeys that arrived at her farm last August have found loving homes, and she’s gearing up for more donkeys in June.

“PVDR will be bringing ten to twelve donkeys up, and we’ll work on finding these ones loving homes,” says Marianne. “I don’t know what sizes or what their backgrounds will be, but whatever is meant to be, will be!”

Marianne encourages anyone who is considering adopting a donkey to learn more about the process, and come visit the farm.

“Potential adopters fill out an online adoption form available at donkeyrescue.org,” she says. “Approved applicants are connected with their nearest satellite center, so I would get in touch with anyone interested in adopting in New England. The donkeys are my responsibility at that point, so I take a lot of time to get to know potential adopters before any donkeys go home.

Sometimes I do farm inspections to be absolutely sure. Once the adopter is approved, there’s paperwork to fill out, the adoption fee is paid ($500 for a mammoth or mini donkey, $400 for a standard donkey), and we set up a time for the donkey to go home.”

Marianne takes every adoption very personally, and makes sure the adopter knows that she’s always available as a resource and friend.

“Once you adopt a donkey from us, we don’t just say ‘see you later!’ ” she says. “We consider you part of our family at that point, and I love to keep in touch to see how things are going. It’s not just about placing the donkeys for us, but also staying involved and creating a community.”

When the donkeys arrive in June, Marianne will host a meet-and-greet event for people to come meet the new donkeys.

“It will be a great opportunity for potential adopters to come see the donkeys, and also a nice way for people to learn more about donkeys and the organization,” says Marianne. “It’s always our goal to help educate the public on these special equines.”

For those who are curious about donkeys, but aren’t ready to adopt just yet, Marianne encourages people to get in touch to learn more about opportunities for volunteer work.

“We have really great volunteers here and would love to have more,” she says. “I’m happy to speak with anyone interested in helping out. One of the most important things we do is socialize the donkeys. A lot of them are very shy when they get here, so often the most important thing volunteers can do is just

sit in the pasture and begin to interact with them, getting them used to humans. It’s key to helping them find success in their new homes.”

“Our goal going forward is to help as many donkeys as we can and find them the right homes,” she says. It’s hardly been a year since she became a satellite adoption center for PVDR, and already Marianne has proven she’s up to the task with 15 donkeys-in-need secured into wonderful homes.

As Marianne watches over her own herd of equines, and anticipates the new donkeys that will arrive come June, she thinks of her old friend Eeyore, remembering how he rescued her. Saving other donkeys is what keeps his spirit alive for her. “In doing this work, I feel like the part of my soul that I lost has come back to life,” she says, feeling Eeyore’s presence now more than ever.

“We hope we can continue to do this work with PVDR for a very long time,” she says, smiling from ear to ear.

To lend a hoof, visit facebook.com/peacefulvalley donkeyrescuegranbyma.

Alessandra Mele, who lives in Wilbraham, works in marketing at W. F. Young/Absorbine. She enjoys spending time with the horses on her family’s farm, especially riding her Quarter Horse, JoJo.

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News in Our Community Overherd

Congratulations to Lena, Cassandra, and Punch

Diagnosis in Motion

n Emma Rickenbach

Whether ridden in competition or for recreation, a horse in motion is a symphony of muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and nerves.

The horse, which Shakespeare described as “pure air and fire,” draws its majesty from this graceful, and yet complex, physical fluidity.

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Service at the Hospital for Large Animals, which treats horses for a variety of issues related to soundness and health, including lameness, respiratory failure, and wound healing.

The complex opens up new ways to observe and treat equine patients —

courtesy of Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary

Saturday February 25 was a huge day for Blue Star Equiculture team members Lena Pasquini and Cassandra Weglarz. Lena and Cassi have worked tirelessly since November 2016 to prepare Blue Star ambassador Punch to compete at the Camp Marshall Schooling Show in Spencer. In the dark, and in rain, sleet, and snow, the threesome could be found practicing in Blue Star’s outdoor riding ring. Punch is an outgoing American Spotted Draft with a big heart. Lena is a 16-year-old full time student at Pathfinder and weekend barn manager at Blue Star Equiculture. Cassi owns her own business and cares for her four horses that she adopted from Blue Star.

Cramming in training, grooming, and lessons in between all their other obligations prepared the trio for the show, where they had brilliant success and were awarded five blue ribbons in Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunt Seat Discipline Rail, and the entire Green Horse division.

Not bad for a farm horse, let alone a previous carthorse!

We couldn’t be more proud of their success! Keep an eye out for them in the future.

To meet a growing caseload of horses that need specialized care to restore soundness, strength, and stamina, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton has built an equine sports medicine complex whose centerpiece is an

Lena Pasquini and Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary’s Punch at the Camp Marshall Schooling Show in Spencer where they won many blue ribbons. Congratulations!

indoor arena where equine veterinarians can observe and evaluate horses under saddle and over fences.

“Horse owners increasingly turn to our Hospital for Large Animals at Cummings Veterinary Medical Center for expertise in equine sports medicine and surgery, general surgery, internal medicine, and ultrasound," says Medical Director Dr. Virginia Rentko. With eight boardcertified clinicians, three of whom are board-certified in equine sports medicine, “we’re unrivaled in New England for this expertise.

This new facility helps us better serve the region’s equine community while helping us educate the next generation of veterinarians.”

The new facility complements the Equine Sports Medicine and Surgical

many of them top-level hunters, jumpers, dressage, and three-day event horses.

“Whether the patient is a competitive athlete or a recreational pony, veterinarians need to observe how their patients move in order to diagnose potential problems and evaluate the success of a rehab program,” says Dr. Kirstin Bubeck, Clinical Assistant Professor of Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery.

“Performance is best evaluated in a controlled setting that is similar to what the horse has at home or in a competition,” she says. “We want to match the surface and spatial setting. The new facility replicates these requirements, and we’ll be able to make a truer assessment of their progress.”

Dr. José García-López,

Associate Professor of Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery and director of the Issam M. Fares Equine Sports Medicine Program at Cummings School, says the complex, “will translate into improved care for our patients and strengthen our teaching and residency training.”

The complex, which was built next to the Hospital for Large Animals, includes an 80' x 120' all-season, energyefficient arena and a 42' x 104' building with exam space, holding stalls, a wash/tack/farrier room, a viewing area within the arena, and a meeting/client consultation room.

To learn more, visit vet.tufts.edu.

Early, Safe, and Accurate Lameness Diagnosis

“My horse had a frustrating problem in his hoof that was treated as an abscess because of an inability to diagnose it properly. I finally brought him to South Shore Equine Clinic to have a standing MRI — he was standing and awake. Thanks to the MRI, Dr. Linda Cimetti was able to diagnose the problem as a bruise and thus prescribe proper treatment. Now he’s doing so well, I can ride him again.”

Plympton’s South Shore Equine Clinic brings the gold standard in human diagnostics to equine patients using Hallmarq’s Standing MRI. This allows veterinarians to image the legs up to the knee and hock without the risk of general anesthesia — just light sedation.

Many times with a standard lameness exam a horse blocks to a certain region, but has no abnormalities on x-ray or ultrasound.

Response to treatment may

Michael Poulin Clinic

Saturday February 25 was an unseasonably warm day at Danielle Gavriluk’s Saltmarsh Farm in South

Dartmouth. Saltmarsh Farm is a dressage training facility situated on 50 breathtaking acres overlooking the marsh

training scale. Additionally, Danielle has earned USDF bronze, silver, and gold medals.

Cora Shillinglaw

be the only way to confirm a potential diagnosis, but includes recheck exams over a long period of time. The MRI can quickly and precisely localize injuries to both bone and soft tissues, identifying the specific cause of lameness in more than 90 percent of cases.

“MRI is the only way to differentiate between the numerous injuries that cause hoof lameness and navicular syndrome,” says Dr. Mark Reilly, board certified horse specialist. “It allows us to make an accurate diagnosis and provide a targeted treatment plan, saving the horse owner time, money, and frustration.

To learn more about South Shore Equine Clinic, visit ssequineclinic.com.

Danielle Gavriluk, of Saltmarsh Farm in South Dartmouth, and Highlife K working in the Michael Poulin Dressage Clinic at Saltmarsh Farm.

and ocean. Danielle specializes in classical dressage training of horses and riders of all levels through FEI focused on the German

Michael Poulin has been regarded as one of the most accomplished dressage riders, trainers, and coaches. In 1992 he rode Graf George

and Bombadier in the Barcelona Olympic games, earning a team bronze medal. Michael was inducted into the USDF Hall of Fame in 2012 for his many years dedicated to teaching and training horses and riders to the very highest levels of success, including the Pan American Games and the Olympics.

Michael’s commitment to the education and development of U.S. riders and horses led him to create the USDF’s National Dressage Symposium and Trainer’s Conference. Additionally, he developed the USDF’s Instructor Certification Program and founded the Olympic Dream Program for Young Riders. Currently Michael is a board member on the Dressage Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to cultivating and providing financial support for the advancement of the sport of dressage in the United States.

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20' x 20' showroom. Garage and 20' x 60' stall area. extra heated garages, paddocks, pastures, and woodlands on Indian pond. Five miles to beach and 30 miles to Boston. custom design is a creative balance of enduring old world craftsmanship with today’s luxury living. $2,200,000.

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Michael’s focus with Danielle and her horse, Highlife K, was on Grand Prix movements that included tempi changes and canter pirouettes. The clinic had a wonderful turnout of auditors and Michael used them to his advantage. To help emphasize the importance of straightness for the setup of canter pirouettes, Michael had the auditors make two lines going down the centerline of the ring, creating a chute for Danielle to ride through. At the end of the chute Danielle applied her beautifully executed aids, with Highlife K demonstrating a picture-perfect pirouette. Next Michael had the auditors move their “human chute” to the diagonal of the ring where Danielle and Highlife K schooled two tempis and progressed to one tempis. Danielle and Highlife K skipped down the chute performing tempi changes with grace and ease, demonstrating amazing cadence and energy. You could see firsthand the seasoned relationship that Danielle and Michael have forged after many years of training together.

The next rider, Sara Carlisle, and her horse, Knight, worked on Prix St. George movements for the upcoming show season. Michael started the set by engaging Sara in a conversation about her goals, roadblocks, and any training issues that she would like to address during the day’s training session. The focus of their set was on the quality of lead changes and working on Sara’s timing to effectively use her aids to ask for the change. Michael also had Sara work on canter pirouettes. Knight was extremely obedient and gave his heart to this very challenging activity, and the pair came away with some cool new tools in their tool box.

Up next was Kelly Garrity and her horse Werbelwind schooling fourth level movements. Michael and Kelly have trained together previously and the two seemed to pick up right where they left off in their last training session.

This session focused primarily on the quality of the trot, going from lengthening movements like the extended trot to collection work on the piaffe.

Michael applied some techniques that one would use when teaching the piaffe in hand to help Kelly engage the horse’s hind legs and lift through the withers. Next the pair moved on to schooling lead changes. Michael was able to help Kelly with the timing of her aids to ask for the lead change at the moment of suspension. This also led to 26

April/May 2017

instruction on the quality of canter needed to get the lead change by creating a more straight and balanced horse.

The clinic continued the following day with more auditors coming out to watch one of the greatest dressage trainers in action. We’re extremely lucky to have a trainer of Michael’s caliber in our neck of the woods. Danielle hosts clinics with Michael a few times a year.

n Cora Shillinglaw

Blue Star Appoints New Officers

Exciting changes are happening at Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary in Palmer. Executive director Pam Rickenbach and the board of directors have appointed Keith Gordon as president and Cassieandra Weglarz as vice president. Keith, owner of Burgundy Brook Restaurant, brings his vast business and advertising expertise and Cassieandra rounds out the offices with her horse knowledge. Keith and Cassieandra have both adopted horses from Blue Star and are active supporters of the sanctuary.

These changes will allow the farm to become more structured and prosperous — having more people in place to accomplish the farm’s goals while bringing a fresh new perspective and new ideas to help the farm grow, and to make the public aware of the value of its draft horses.

Keith envisions a more park-like atmosphere for the farm to make visits more pleasing, giving the public a chance to wander the grounds and see the work that Blue Star accomplishes.

The plan is to become even more active in the community while also providing more carriage and wagon rides, and to expand the horses-for-hire program.

Pam will remain on the farm, facilitating care and support as needed while also pursuing her long-term passion of carriage driving in Philadelphia on weekends, and re-establishing the business of soil care by overseeing the manure composting project in place at the farm.

Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary has given safe haven to more than 300 retired, homeless, and disabled workhorses since it was established in 2009. Blue Star relies entirely on donations, is open to the public, and holds many fundraisers. To learn more, visit equiculture.org.

n Karen Morang

Bolton Horsewoman Inducted into Hall of Fame

Nancy Ela Caisse, of Townshend Farm in Bolton, was recently inducted into the American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) Hall of Fame. Nancy follows in her mother Anna Dickson Ela’s footsteps as she was inducted in 1986. Anna was also AMHA Woman of the Year in 1965 and Nancy was awarded that honor in 1972.

The presentation was held during the AMHA Annual Convention on February 25 in Riverside, California.

Nancy is the quintessential champion of all things Morgan. She was born into the wonderful world of Morgan horses as a third generation horsewoman, and for seven decades, she’s been a moving force in every aspect of the breed. Nancy embodies an integrity, dedication, and commitment to the Morgan horse that has marked her lifelong passion for the allAmerican breed. The depth of her knowledge, coupled with her uncanny wisdom, keen acumen, and quick wit have distinguished her as one of the most highly recognized and respected dynamic leaders of the Morgan community.

The Ela Caisse name and the family’s historical Townshend Farm are household words to Morgan lovers across the country as Nancy’s tireless efforts on behalf of the Morgan breed continue to promote the Morgan as the horse that can, and does, do everything. From the young, gutsy equitation rider who consistently challenged the top saddle seat riders of her day, through her years as a top competitor in every show ring division, to numerous ribbons in Green Mountain 100-mile trail rides, and carriage driving and sport horse activities, to directing the daily operation of one of the oldest Morgan breeding farms in the country, Nancy has made

Morgan promotion a lifelong pursuit.

Nancy has stamped the history of the Morgan breed through her unparalleled insight, perseverance, and loyalty.

n Suzy Lucine

Massachusetts’ Absorbine Introduces Bute-Less Performance

The Bute-Less brand has long been trusted as a supplement that delivers comfort and recovery support while remaining gentle on the stomach. Now Absorbine is pleased to introduce a new addition to the line, Bute-Less Performance pellets. This high-performance supplement provides comprehensive support for managing occasional stiffness, soreness, and discomfort associated with training and competition.

The show-safe Bute-Less Performance formula is an optimum blend of natural ingredients that enhances the body’s normal repair of connective tissue and joints, helping to keep hardworking horses training and competing at their best. When fed daily, Bute-Less Performance may help to relieve inflammation, support GI tract health and recovery from gastric distress, support muscle recovery, and protect against free radical damage. Formulated with the performance horse in mind, none of the ingredients in Bute-Less Performance are currently prohibited by USEF or FEI. To learn more about the complete line of supplements and muscle and joint care products available from Absorbine, visit absorbine.com.

A Revolution in Fly Spray

When it comes to fly repellents, we all want something that works, yet many horse owners, riders, and equine professionals are wary of spraying chemicals on their Massachusetts Horse

27

horses and around the barn day in and day out.

Massachusetts’ SmartPak is excited to announce OutSmart Fly Spray, a pioneering, new insect repellent that is non-toxic, effective, and designed for both horses and riders.

For smart riders who want the best for their horses, OutSmart Fly Spray is a next generation insect repellent effective against house flies, stable flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. It’s free of permethrin, pyrethroids, pyrethrins, and DEET. Engineered to be smarter, OutSmart Fly Spray is powered by TyraTech’s Nature’s Technology, a patent-pending, innovative combination of plant-based ingredients, making it safe and effective for horses, riders, and the planet.

“As a company full of horse owners, we understand some of the biggest problems that are faced in and around

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the barn, including those pesky insects,” says Casey Fleming, SmartPak’s product manager. “We’re always looking for smarter solutions, and we’re really excited about OutSmart Fly Spray.

This formula is plant-based, non-toxic, and best of all it’s effective — there isn’t anything like this out there on the market today.”

Not only does OutSmart Fly Spray effectively repel insects, it also has a fresh, botanical scent riders love.

OutSmart Fly Spray is exclusively available at SmartPak. To give it a try, visit smartpak.com/OutSmart.

UPHA Chapter 14 Awards

Chapter 14 of the United Professional Horsemen’s Association (UPHA) held its year-end awards banquet February 4.

Rodney Hicks, of Rodney Hicks Stable in Richmond, was inducted into

the UPHA 14 Hall of Fame.

Rodney eats, sleeps, and breathes horses and that passion for the Hackney has led to a career filled with winning chapter after winning chapter.

He caught that bug from his uncle, world champion trainer Denny Lang. Rodney learned from the ground up and then finished off his education with Gib Marcucci and Skip Shenker. Rodney runs his training business out of Sebring Stables.

Developing young ponies and horses, fine-tuning open stock, pairing amateurs and junior exhibitors alike to just the right fourlegged partners, judging major shows, service to the UPHA, and, most of all, promoting the Hackney at every opportunity are the virtues that have made Rodney worthy of this esteemed fraternity. The best part about all of this is his family — wife Janet and son Dan — love it as much as he does. They’re indeed the “first family” of Hackney in the Northeast and they work hard to ensure there will be future generations.

Rodney’s son, Danny Hicks, had a great show season with the roadster pony, Jackie O, who was the Hackney Pony of the Year.

Lillian Gilpin, of Rocking Horse Farm in Plympton, was named Horse Person of the Year. Lillian has been a mainstay to all things equine in New England, from lessons to introducing new people to winning titles in the Saddlebred, Morgan, Hackney, and Friesian divisions throughout the Northeast. In addition to supporting chapter shows with champion entries, Lillian has also participated in many chapter functions over the years. She’s set examples with her volunteer work and support of all

things equine. Rocking Horse Farm is filled with people who give back to the industry, including Courtney Cahill and Sharon Alemian, who were recipients of the Distinguished Service Honor.

Lynda St. Andre of Taunton was the Saddlebred Amateur of the Year.

As Predicted (aka Skeeter) was the Morgan of the Year. Shown by trainer Nikki Rae Woodworth, of KGA Morgans in Mendon, the gelding was owned by Deborah Hamilton. Under Nikki’s direction, Skeeter has won nine world titles, two reserve world titles, two grand national titles, and one reserve grand national title. He recently sold to Mary Golota of South Lyon, Michigan.

The New England Morgan Horse Show was honored as the UPHA Honor Show of the Year, and its manager John Lampropolous was the Show Manager of the Year. Held annually in July in Northampton, the show is well into its eighth decade of hosting top-quality Morgans, owners, breeders, trainers, exhibitors, and youth.

Dawn DelTorchio, of High Tail Acres in Newbury, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Every horseperson starts with a dream and those who work hard, learn everything they can from everyone they can, and have an ounce of luck not only survive, but excel in their craft. Dawn began her journey in 1960 when her grandmother purchased an American Saddlebred. Five years later, the family added Hackney ponies to the barn.

Dawn’s father served on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council for many years, and later, Dawn served on the board for several years. The New England Hackney

n Suzy Lucine

Turning for Home OTTBs

Opening its doors April 1, Cardinal Ridge Equestrian Center is excited to establish itself as a training, boarding, and rehabilitation facility located in the beautiful hills of Barre.

Cardinal Ridge is a quiet, professional facility that features both a large indoor and outdoor arena, private turnout, access to miles of trails, and personalized care that strives to make clients and their horses comfortable and happy.

A unique aspect of Cardinal Ridge is the farm’s

partnership with Turning For Home, a nonprofit run by the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (PTHA). “We want to give back to our sport, says Karla Christiansen, owner of Cardinal Ridge. “We’re

available and is now accepting new clients. All breeds and disciplines are welcome.

Rehabilitation care is also offered.

To learn more about Turning for Home, visit patha.org/turning-for-home.

n Rebekah Nydam

Megan Koski

Society, now known as the Northeast Hackney Association, has benefited greatly from Dawn’s service as a member, as president, and, for many years, as the recording secretary. Dawn’s husband Skip came into the picture in 1970 and immediately became immersed in the family’s passion. With daughters Deidre, Deana, and Darla growing up, a family decision was made to open their High Tail Acres as a public training facility.

They’ve succeeded at shows big and small, put countless families into the business, and worked to build an honest business that has fun promoting the equine lifestyle with every opportunity. That decision has lead to many great memories and now, with grandchildren Connor, Abi, Ethan, and Adrien a part of the team, a whole new chapter is being written.

Dawn says, “Someone once wrote of High Tail Acres . . . ‘a place inspired by dreams and where dreams are inspired.’ I look forward to being able to continue that thought.”

It was an enjoyable event celebrating the talents and success of UPHA Chapter 14 members.

Skittles sporting her winter coat, enjoying some hay on a wintry morning at Bay State Equine Rescue in Oakham. Skittles is available for adoption!

doing this by accepting offtrack Thoroughbreds from Turning for Home for rehabilitation, if needed, and training. We’ll then find good homes and suitable careers for these wonderful animals.”

The majority of funding for this nonprofit comes from owners, jockeys, the PTHA, Parx racetrack management, and the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association. The rules at the Parx racetrack state that any trainer or owner found responsible for sending a horse to slaughter is denied entry to race their horses at Parx and is immediately dismissed from the grounds.

Cardinal Ridge is proud to partner with Turning for Home to make the goal of a safe and happy life for OTTBs a reality.

Cardinal Ridge has stalls

Bay State Equine Rescue Welcomes New Volunteers

Just like all New England horse people, we’re very happy to welcome the warm weather back!

Bay State Equine Rescue had another successful winter, thanks to a most-trusty plow truck, a wonderful John Deere tractor, and a dedicated crew of volunteers.

Some days were tougher than others — fighting ice and cold weather is hard no matter what, but everyone stayed busy making sure the horses were happy.

Winter is the most challenging time of year for all rescues. It means figuring out the best way to keep water in the stalls from freezing, making sure the horses drink enough, clearing paths in the turnouts when the snow gets too deep, and mak-

ing sure the manure pile is accessible. When temperatures are below freezing, extra thought goes into things as simple as administering medications and soaking grain — everything freezes, and that’s a lesson sometimes learned the hard way.

Barn chores take longer in the snowy months. Who needs the gym when you can push a wheelbarrow through five inches of fresh, soft snow? The volunteers definitely get more exercise than the horses since we don’t have an indoor arena, but the warm weather has brought opportunities for the volunteers to start exercising the horses again.

Bay State Equine Rescue is unable to accept volunteer or adoption applications during the winter months, but now that spring is here, we’re ready to meet new volunteers!

Our upcoming public events include our spring volunteer orientation on Sunday, April 2, and don’t miss our shavings sale on Saturday, April 22, at Camp Marshall in Spencer. To learn more about these and other events, visit baystate equinerescue.org and follow us on Facebook.

The horses look forward to seeing you!

Overherdisms

n Megan Koski

• “My horse knows what number cow he’s chasing before I do!”

• “We’re not one to trot off on our own now, are we?”

• “My horse has a stall full of fresh shavings, a full hay net, and buckets of warm water plus a licky toy and chewy toy. Where is he?

Standing out in the blizzard!”

Massachusetts Horse

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Partners

Bay State Trail Riders Association

BSTRA wrapped up 2016 with panache at the Annual General Meeting and Awards Banquet on Sunday, February 5. Held at Alicante Restaurant and Lounge in Mendon, which overlooks Nipmuc Pond, the banquet featured a delicious pasta buffet and pastries.

Elections of the 2017 board members and officers were followed by the annual awards presentations. Senior, adult, and junior awards were handed out in three divisions: Pleasure, Competitive, and Accumulative.

BSTRA’s annual Scavenger Hunt will be held May 7 at Upton State Forest.

The Scavenger Hunt is always a blast. Riders will be given clues to find along the trail. The more clues you find, the higher your score.

Ribbons will be awarded after lunch. Parking is limited, so early sign-up is recommended.

May 21 is the Spring Hunter Pace at Douglas State Forest. The ride will offer jumps for all levels. Lunch is provided with pre-registrations. (The food last year was delicious.)

BSTRA is excited to announce that this year’s National Trails Day Ride and Fundraiser, sponsored by Yered Trailers, will be held at Apple Knoll Farm in Millis on June 11. This is a unique opportunity to ride eight or nine miles through the beautiful property and adjacent 30

April/May 2017

conservation area. The first 50 registered participants will receive a gift bag with a commemorative embroidered item and other goodies. Spectacular prizes will be raffled off after a special lunch. Awards will also be given for the most money raised. Raise over $100 and your ride fee can be

and quickly move horses during such an event. The presenter, Roger Lauze, equine rescue and training coordinator for MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen, will instruct firefighters and first responders in emergency rescue and handling techniques of equines. Horse and barn owners will learn how to pre-

courtesy of New England Equestrian Center of Athol

Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Bay State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program.

Massachusetts organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member; space in the magazine for news, events, and photos; and a link from mahorse.com to its website.

Massachusetts Farm Bureau

Bryan Whitney with Liam Ellis on Jazzy in the Lead Line division at a 2016 New England Equestrian Center of Athol Gymkhana.

refunded! One hundred percent of the money raised will go directly to the trails. Last year’s National Trails Day was spectacular and BSTRA raised more than $13,000.

Let’s make this year’s event even bigger!

To learn more and sign up, visit bstra.org. See you on the trails!

7 Annamaria Paul

Hampshire County Riding Club

On Saturday, May 20, HCRC will host a Barn Fire Prevention and EMT Preparedness Workshop at Carrier’s Farm in Southampton, the first workshop of its kind in the area.

Horse owners, barn owners, 4-H and Pony Club members, veterinarians, vet techs, firefighters, and first responders are the targeted groups for this daylong, hands-on seminar. The focus is what to do in the event of a barn or stable fire and how to safely

the Chesterfield Gorge, Hawley State Forest, Northfield Mountain Recreation Area, and Hammonasset Beach. There are camping weekends scheduled for the Wagon Wheel Campground in Warwick, a weekend invite from the Barre Ride and Drive Club at Felton Field in Barre, and a Weekend-O-Fun scheduled at our own HCRC club grounds.

To learn more, visit hampshirecountyriding club.org and follow us on Facebook.

7 Diane Merritt

vent barn fires, prepare for an emergency, and administer first aid to horses.

June 9 to 11, HCRC is hosting a Western Dressage and Obstacle Clinic and Show by Cathy Drumm and Heidi Potter at our club grounds in Goshen. The three days include instruction sessions on Friday and Saturday followed by a judged competition on Sunday that includes riding a dressage test and completion of an obstacle course.

English tack is also welcome.

A Rachel Hackett and Jo Bunny Clinic will be offered June 24 at our club grounds.

A number of trail rides, a parade, and camping weekends for members and guests round out the schedule. The season kicks off with the annual Pancake Breakfast Ride April 9 on the dirt roads of Worthington to the Red Bucket Sugar Shack.

Other rides will take us to

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is an organization that builds farmer influence through advocacy. We address local issues, have state legislative impact, and a national voice with the American Farm Bureau Federation.

As 2017 marks the beginning of a new legislative session on Beacon Hill, the whole legislative process commences again. Bills that were partially through the process during the last session must be re-filed and start at square one. It’s also when new bills are typically filed.

Once a bill has been filed, it is given a docket number — an identifying number beginning with SD if it was filed by a Senator, HD if it was filed in the House.

Within a month or two of being filed, the House or Senate clerk will assign each bill to an initial committee, which will eventually hold a hearing on the bill to decide if it should move on. At this time, it’s given a new identifying number preceded by SB for a bill filed in the Senate and HB if filed in the House.

MFBF supports a raft of

bills this session, including SB480 that is related to equestrians — an act relative to horseback riding instructor’s licenses: Massachusetts is the only state in the country that requires a license for horseback riding instructors.

The examination related to the license has little relevance to riding instruction and the time and cost involved in licensing instructors is significant. The bill would delete the need for a riding instructor license and require all staff in commercial stables who work with children to have a CORI check.

As the session progresses, MFBF will be sending alerts and other information to members on how they can help support this bill, among others, and hopefully move it along.

The Massachusetts equine industry employs more than 7,000 people and contributes $386.6 million annually to the economy. As

it’s such a vibrant sector in the Commonwealth, MFBF works hard to represent equestrians’ interests on Beacon Hill and in Washington.

However, while we work for you, we can’t work without you. Your support and volunteerism is needed to help our organization raise awareness of the issues that matter most to you. To learn more about MFBF and to become a member, visit mfbf.net and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

7 Katelyn Parsons

Massachusetts Quarter Horse Association

MQHA is happy to share the many successes of 2016. namely, our Region Six Show was one of the American Quarter Horse Association’s top ten shows of 2016! Kudos to the planners and those involved who worked tirelessly to bring this amazing show to New England.

Congratulations to all of our competitors! There were many wonderful year-end awards given out as well as three scholarships to our members furthering their education. We welcome new members into our club this year and we are growing!

We welcome new and returning competitors for our shows in 2017. Join us April 21 to 23 for our Novice and Open Show at the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton. This show includes AQHA Walk Trot for 18 and Under and 19 and Over.

The May 17 to 21 Annual Show will be at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. The middle day of this five-day show will be halter and showmanship classes only, with four judges.

There will be free Aged Mares and Aged Geldings classes plus AQHA Walk Trot classes.

The Super Six Show July 18 to 23 at Eastern States

Exposition in West Springfield is one of the fastest growing and best AQHA shows of 2017. We hope you can join us!

To learn more, visit massqha.com and follow us on Facebook.

7 Lori Mahassel

Myopia Hunt Club

Myopia Hunt Club has a full calendar of events planned for spring. Spring roading begins Saturday, April 29 and runs through Saturday, June 10, and takes place Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 5 p.m. Spring roading provides an opportunity for horses, riders, and hounds to build fitness as we ride out at a slower pace and for a shorter amount of time than in our formal season.

Attire is the less formal rat catcher.

Hound exercises begin on June 14 and take place Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m., for approximately 60

Massachusetts Horse

31

looking for a speaker

for your organization’s meeting or banquet?

Nicole Birkholzer, author of Pet Logic, has a signature Horse Logic talk that offers a fun and educational view by considering the world through the horse’s eyes and enriching our relationship with our equines.

NicoleBirkholzer.com

Tack Shop & Consignment Area

Dublin . Tuff Rider . Saxon . Noble Outfitters . Horze . Shires . Ariat Weatherbeeta . Tough 1 . Professional’s Choice . Roma . Absorbine

Barn Supplies . 1st & 2nd Cut Hay Paper-bagged Shavings . Grain Livestock . Poultry . Wild Bird Seed Dog, Cat, Small Animal, and Reptile Pickup and Delivery!

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April/May 2017

minutes through August.

Dress is casual for hound exercises — collared shirt — and they’re an ideal opportunity for those who want to learn about fox hunting and test their horse’s suitability prior to the start of our hunting season. Hound exercises are free and a great low key way to introduce green horses to the hustle and bustle of hounds running to and fro, as well as riding in a larger group of horses.

Our Spring Hunter Pace is scheduled for May 21. In a hunter pace, small groups of riders are sent out on a route that mimics a normal fox hunt. The goal is to ride at a pace that most closely approximates the pace of an actual hunt, and there are divisions for all levels of riders, including jumping and non-jumping. Our hunter pace provides another option for riders curious about fox hunting to get some informal exposure to riding and jumping through the countryside.

Myopia Hunt is open to the public and welcomes experienced riders with an appropriate horse to join in at any time. Even if you do not have a horse, there are all sorts of opportunities to participate by volunteering! We need people to help check in riders at the beginning of hunts and at our special events like our hunter paces and hunter trials. We need fence judges for the hunter trials, volunteers to assist with road crossings, to help clear trails and mend fences, and for administrative help like inputting scores. The list goes on and any assistance is always appreciated.

With so many options and opportunities to participate, watch, and volunteer, we invite you to join us in our mission to preserve the future through the traditions of the past. For more information on the Myopia Hunt, including detailed scheduling

information and to sign up for email notifications, visit myopiahunt.org.

7 Lisa Wohlleib

New England Equestrian Center of Athol

This year’s start and stop spring seems to be settling down, and in the North Quabbin area, we’re finally getting to spend time with our horses, even if it’s just shedding out their long, muddy coats! At NEECA we’ve been finalizing plans and starting to do some work at the Park. We’ve a busy schedule ahead and it all starts in April.

The March 15 General Membership Meeting was well attended and worthwhile as we listened to Dr. Rose McWilliam’s presentation on Emergencies: When to Call the Vet and What To Do Before the Vet Gets There.

Good, common sense information on what to do when faced with an equine injury or illness is something we all can use and Rose provided it in a clear, enjoyable way.

On March 25, NEECA members gathered at Pete Whitmore’s farm in Orange for the annual vaccination clinic with Dr. Robert Schmitt.

To continue the process of getting the Park ready for 2017, there’ll be a workday on April 9. Workdays aren’t just things that need to happen— they’re also fun. We invite everyone to join us as we clear the winter’s mess out of the rings, grandstand, and trails. While we work we laugh, share stories, food and drink. It’s a great way to learn about NEECA and the Equestrian Park, especially if you haven’t been there before.

April 23 the Park will host the first gymkhana of the season, and there’s some exciting news to share about the 2017 series: this year’s high point awards are going to be belt buckles. Check the

DRESSAGE

schedule at neeca.org and join us this year. Our gymkhanas offer divisions for everyone from the littlest lead liners, to walk trot riders of all ages, to seasoned, galloping gamers. Gymkhanas are fun for everyone.

We’ll start a busy May with the first in a series of Western/English Dressage Clinics with the very popular Cathy Drumm on May 6. Past clinics with Cathy have sold out rapidly. Knowledgeable, entertaining, and encouraging, Cathy is genuinely fun to ride with. Later in the week, NEECA’s annual Susan Harris Clinic will take place at Windswept Farm in Petersham. If you haven’t already registered, there’s a waiting list and you may still have a chance, and of course you can audit. The second in the gymkhana series will take place at the Park on May 21.

Finally, the NEECA Spring Trail Ride is scheduled for May 20 at the usual Lake Dennison trails, but

with a different parking area and start. We’ll park and ride out from the spacious area near Birch Hill Dam in Royalston, so be sure to see the directions to the area if you haven’t been there before.

To learn more and stay up to date with NEECA news, visit neeca.org or follow us on Facebook.

Enjoy the spring!

7 Laurie Neely

Westfield Riding Club

The WRC has years of history behind it. As one of the oldest riding clubs in the Bay State, its success and longevity is attributable to a number of factors that keep riders at every level of horsemanship engaged in the sport. Yet its biggest distinction isn’t just its services and programs, but the values that the club upholds.

The WRC always keeps in mind that people are doing their best, trying their

Susan Rainville Dressage Training from the Ground Up

hardest, and acting within their time limits, means, and goals to make the most positive impact they can whether they are riding, volunteering at an event, or a spectator supporting a family member.

There’s no one thing — device, saddle fit, mental game, or training session — that can make a rider a winner, but there are plenty of events at the WRC that can make each ride a learning opportunity, and therefore, a success.

First, the club organizes educational activities, programs, shows, trail rides, and other events to enhance understanding of correct horse management and riding, as well as appreciation of the horse with particular emphasis on youth participation at all levels. The club has served as a 4-H show host for many years, offering valuable show opportunities for kids just starting out or competing at regional and national levels.

Second, the WRC is a low-key experience. Events are organized and open to all. Expectations are on learning and having fun for both riders and horses. Many trainers bring young riders and/or young horses to WRC shows for a positive experience outside of the barn.

Last, unlike many riding clubs, the WRC is fortunate to have its own property.

This enables the club to bring horse owners and enthusiasts together for meetings, shows, trail rides, and games-type events.

The WRC is hosting two 4-H and Open shows — Sunday, June 11 and Sunday, September 10. Shows begin at 8:30 a.m. at the club grounds located at 29 Fowler Road in Westfield. The show is approved by the Open Horse Show Association, the American Paint Horse Association, and the Pinto Horse Association of America. Show photography,

Dressage Schooling Shows All Tests Including Western April 30 . judge Susan Rainville June 11 . judge Nancy Young August 27 . judge Suzanne Mente October 29 . judge Elaine Johnson Year-end awards for those riding in a minimum of three shows. Entries due the Thursday prior to each show.

• USDF bronze and silver medalist • Centerline Scores three-star rider • 16 years teaching and training •Proven system for a safe and successful horse and rider relationship • Competitive and non-competitive riders are welcome to join our fun team!

Adult Dressage Camp

May 6 & 7 A weekend for adults who enjoy dressage.

Fun, social, and educational!

Summer Camp for Kids June 26 to 30

White Spruce Farms

Central Massachusetts . (978) 257-4666 . whitesprucefarms.com Massachusetts Horse

33

West Newbury Riding and Driving Club

WNRDC is pleased to announce the dates for its two annual horse trials (three-phase events) are July 9 and October 8. These events are held at the popular Pipestave Hill Equestrian Area, which offers just the right mix of challenge, fun, and picturesque scenery. As always, proceeds from these events in part support local

courtesy of Westfield Riding Club

a mobile tack store, and a food booth are available at all shows.

The WRC’s annual games event will take place on Sunday, August 6. This is a fun day to try things like jumping small cross rails, pole bending, or testing to see how well your no-stirrup work is coming along during a Sit-a-Buck class.

There’s no better experience than seeing the world from the back of a horse.

Lead Line riders get it done at Westfield Riding Club 4-H and Open Shows!

Trail rides are open to members and are scheduled at least once each month, weather permitting. Be sure to check the club’s Facebook page for the latest information. This year’s trail rides are May 21 at Robinson State Park, June 25 at Blandford Ski Area, July 9 at Becket Land Trust, August 20 at Littleville Dam, September 24 at October Mountain, and October 18 at Tolland State Forest.

The WRC is a non-profit organization founded on the eve of World War II in 1939 by a group of horse enthusiasts whose mission was “fostering interest in the use, care, breeding, and protection of horses.”

To learn more, go to westfieldridingclub.org and follow us on Facebook.

7 Molly Watson and Sarah Bonini

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April/May 2017

charities and public service organizations.

Note that the WNRDC horse trials are part of USEA Area 1 Schooling Championships, and as such, can be used for gathering scores toward year-end awards. Also, the horse trials now reflect all divisions of the USEA Area 1 through Beginner Novice.

Every event needs volunteers to run efficiently, so keep WNRDC in mind! Jump adopters are also encouraged to apply for jump maintenance, weed whacking, and creative decorating.

To learn about volunteer and membership details, plus updates on additional activities, visit wnrdc.com and the club’s Facebook page.

7 Liz Russell

This Olde Horse

AP Wirephoto

East Boston

July 15, 1942, Tribune Telegram: Whirlaway, the little red horse with the big tail, carries the victory wreath in the winner’s circle after finishing first in the $50,000 Massachusetts Handicap, a flat race for three year olds and up, held annually at Suffolk Downs in East Boston, to become the turf’s highest money winner of all time with a total of $454,366. Whirlaway was widely known as “Mr. Longtail” because his tail was especially long and thick and it would blow far out behind him during races, flowing dramatically in the wind.

Blue Dog Leather 64 South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass.

978.544.2681 bluedogleather.com

Western New England Professional Horsemen’s Association’s

Hunter/Equitation Shows April 9 April 30 May 14 May 21 May 28 June 4 June 10 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 6

Riverbank Farm at BEC Bellwether Stables White Horse Hill Blythewood Stables Overmeade Farm Harmony Hill Farm Riverbank Farm Biscuit Hill Farm White Horse Hill Farm Emerald Glen Bonnie Lea Farm Harmony Hill Farm

Dressage Shows

English and western dressage classes.

April 9 April 22 April 23 April 30 May 21 June 4 July 16 July 23

Muddy Brook Farm Heritage Farm Mount Holyoke College Higher Ground Farm Stockade Polo Club Emerald Glen Emerald Glen Stockage Polo Club

Featuring year-end awards in many divisions.

wnepha.com Full schedule can be found at:

An organization for horsemen, by horsemen.

Massachusetts Horse

35

events Massachusetts

April 1 IHSA HUNT SEAT REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. ihsainc.com.

1 SPRING SHOT CLINIC with Dr. Linda Eiben, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

1 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Medway. hollyhill7@aol.com.

1 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

36

2 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com.

2 FREE PHILIP WHITMORE TRICK CLINIC, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

4 BALMY ACRES BUCKLE BLOWOUT SHOW, Middleboro. balmyacres.com.

7 – 8 BOSTON RODEO FRONTIER DAYS, Shriners Auditorium, Wilmington. bostonrodeofrontierdays.com.

8 VACCINE CLINIC, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

8 IHSA ZONE 1 HUNT SEAT FINALS, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. ihsainc.com.

1 GATSBY DAY POLO SEASON OPENER, Boston Polo, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

8 INDOOR JUMPER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.

8 COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING CLINIC, Felton Field, Barre. www.masixshooters.com.

1 PONY EXPRESS TACK SALE, Dudley-Gendron Post, Sutton. daniellecyr2007@gmail.com.

8 NORFOLK HUNT CLUB SPRING CLEAN UP, Dover. norfolkhunt.com.

8 WOOLY HORSE SHOW, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

1 – 2 IEA HUNT SEAT ZONE 1 FINALS, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. rideiea.org.

8 CNEER BENEFIT PASTA DINNER, Springfield. centralnewenglandequinerescue.com.

8 MYOPIA STEEPLECHASE RACE NIGHT, Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

2 CROWLEYS TACK AND HORSE AUCTION, Agawam. crowleyshorses.com.

8 NEMHS MIKE ROSAUER MINIATURE HORSE CLINIC, RonHock Shire Farm, Plainville. nemhs.org.

8 – 9 FIELDSTONE USEF “A” SHOW, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

April/May 2017

New England Equestrian Center of Athol’s

Equestrian Showcase

Versatility Challenge

June 11 . Saturday, 9 A.M.

Limited to 25 entries. $50 entry fee. Cash prizes!

Trust & Training at Liberty Versatility Step-Up Challenge

Drill Team Competition Cash prizes!

All drill teams invited.

All ages, disciplines, and abilities. Four rider minimum per team. Quadrilles, Short Programs, Freestyles, Theme Drills.

FREE ADMISSION!

Mustang Discussions & Demonstrations

Watch 2014, 2015, 2016 trainers and Mustangs — see the progress they’ve made and what they’re doing now!

Talks and Q & A’s on Mustang adoption and training.

Tack & Collectible Silent Auction

Tack & Equipment Vendors Great Food!

Enter events at neeca.org.

Upcoming Equestrian Center Events All take place at the Equestrian Center unless otherwise noted.

Gymkhana Series

April 23 . May 21 . June 11 . July 9 Aug. 20 . Sept. 17 . Oct. 15 Lead Line to All-Out Competitors; Riders and drivers of all abilities!

Frank Whitney at (978) 833-2634 freeway3289@gmail.com

Spring Trail Ride

May 20 at Lake Dennison AnnMarie Fisher at winchendon35@gmail.com

Susan Harris Clinic

May 12 to 14 Windswept Farm, Petersham

Friday evening introductory lecture, daily groundwork sessions, balance and body awareness, riding in small groups.

Caroline Mansfield at (978) 249-2813 brycarmansfield@aol.com

Youth Fun Day August 5

Pam DeGregorio at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com

Cathy Drumm Dressage Clinic Series

Western & English May 6 . June 25 . August 13 September 2 . October 14 Additional dates may be added!

Pam DeGregorio at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com

Horse Show

July 16 Felton Field, Barre

Althea Bramhall at (617) 678-9300 or althearealtor@gmail.com

Campout & Versatility September 8 - 10 Margo Petracone westwindfm@aol.com

Fall Social November 4

Athol-Orange Elks Club, Orange Althea Bramhall at (617) 678-9300 or althearealtor@gmail.com

Check neeca.org for updates and new events!

New England Equestrian Center, 660 New Sherborn Rd., Athol

Go to neeca.org for all the details!

38

April/May 2017

MIG Equine

Vendor space openings and information on competitions and demonstrations, contact Peter at (978) 652-2231.

8 – 9 MICHAEL PAGE JUMPING CLINIC, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

16 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Evenstride Farm, Byfield. evenstrideltd.com.

22 SPRING FUN SHOW, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

9 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst. wnepha.com.

16 RANCH SORTING, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. sanski2193@aol.com.

22 TWO PHASE, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

9 HRC TACK SALE, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

16 TRAILERING SAFETY CLINIC, Baile HIll Farm, Sutton. jlhalliday@comcast.net.

22 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

9 FUN AND GAMES WITH PETER AND PHILIP WHITMORE, Southwick. silvercrystfarm.com.

17 – 21 SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE KIDS WEEK, Natick. See details on page 34! smartpak.com/retailstore.

22 WRC VACCINATION AND HEALTH CLINIC, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

9 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Berkshire Equestrian Center, Richmond. wnepha.com.

19 HCRC QUARTERLY MEETING, Leeds. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

9 NEECA WORKDAY, Athol. neeca.org.

9 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Century Mill Stables, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

19 – 22 UPHA CHAPTER 14 SPRING PREMIER, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. easternstatesexposition.com.

9 HCRC PANCAKE BREAKFAST RIDE, Worthington. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

21 – 23 AMERICAN YOUTH HORSE COUNCIL SYMPOSIUM, Wakefield. ayhc.com.

9 LYDIA DOWNEY LAJOIE CLINIC AND HORSE LOVERS FUN DAY, Lower Maple Crescent Stable, Granby. (978) 790-5068 or pioneervalleyhorsefever@gmail.com.

21 – 23 MQHA NOVICE AND OPEN SHOW, Northampton. massqha.com.

15 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

22 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.

15 EASTER EGG HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

Schooling Horse Trials

22 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

22 CORNERSTONE FARM HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

25 Forest Lane, Millis, MA ~ (508) 376-2564

April 23

North Bridge Equine Summer Jumper Series

Season end cash and prizes!

June 14 . June 21 . June 28 . July 12 July 19 . July 26 . Aug. 2 . Aug. 9 Aug. 16 . Aug. 23 . Aug. 30 . Sept 6

Prize lists and entry forms at:

Hunter Paces

22 CCDS SPRING SEMINAR, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. colonialcarriage.org.

22 – 23 ERIC CLARKE HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Touch of Majic Equestrian Center, East Pepperell. fairhaveniberians.com.

22 – 23 BSTRA TRAIL WORK DAYS, location TBA. bstra.org.

22– 23 SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE SPRING SALE, Natick. See details on page 34! smartpak.com/retailstore 23 HRC SHOWMANSHIP AND EQUITATION CLINIC WITH CAM PEPIN, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

23 SPRING TWO PHASE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

23 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

Miguel Anacoreta Clinic

May 21 - Spring Hop Hunter Pace October 22 - Halloween Hunter Pace

Christine at (781) 801-0406 or spanishdq@gmail.com

July 16

May 7 . June 4 . Aug. 13 . Oct. 1

NEDA Summer Dressage Show Schooling Horse Trials Championships August 20

July 8 – 12

Charles River Dressage Shows

Horses and Ponies For Sale/Lease Training with Adrienne Iorio

Three-Day Eventing Competitor and Trainer

appleknoll.com. Check the website often as new events are added!

The facilities at Apple Knoll Farm are available for rental for horse shows, clinics, and other equine activities.

Our cross-country course is open for schooling by appointment, weather permitting.

Massachusetts Horse

39

23 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

28 AHAM VERSATILITY CLINIC, Over The Hill Farm, Uxbridge. (401)-749-5586.

30 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bellwether Stable, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

23 RANCH VERSATILITY, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.

28 – 30 NERHA NORTHEAST SPRING SPIN, West Springfield. nerha.com.

30 CENTURY MILL MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

23 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Independence Stable, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

29 COMPETITIVE TRAIL CHALLENGE RIDE, Easthampton. glencroftfarm.com.

30 GRAZING FIELDS FARM SHOW I, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

29 VACCINE CLINIC, South Shore Equine Clinic, Plympton. ssequineclinic.com.

30 CMHSS TWO TOWN TROTTERS 4-H CLUB SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net.

29 SEHA SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. southeasthunter.com.

30 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW/WMAA SHOW, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

29 CNEER VERSATILITY CLINIC, Cardinal Ridge Equestrian Center Barre. cneer.com.

30 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

29 HORSEMINDSHIP SEMINAR AND DEMONSTRATION, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.

30 JACKPOT SORTING AND AWARDS, Sandy Hollow Stable, Rehoboth. (508) 889-1375.

29 HRC PARADE CLINIC, Thankful Hearts Stable, East Bridgewater. hansonridingclub.org.

30 FUN SHOW SERIES, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com.

29 BSTRA TRAIL WORK DAY, West Hill Dam, Uxbridge. bstra.org.

30 MHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Bellwether Stables, Hancock. bellwetherstable.com.

30 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

23 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

29 – June 10 MYOPIA HUNT SPRING ROADING on Tuesdays (8 a.m.), Thursdays (5 p.m.), and Saturdays (8 a.m.), South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

24 HRC TRIVIA NIGHT, New World Tavern, Plymouth. hansonridingclub.org.

30 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

23 NEFHC SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Settlement Farm, Townsend. nefhc.com.

23 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

23 HERRING BROOK FARM HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

23 APRIL TWO-PHASE, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

23 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SHOW, Bradford Equestrian Center, Haverhill. leangst@comcast.net or (978) 374-0008.

23 JUMPER SHOW, Byfield. evenstrideltd.com.

May 4 – 6 KEN McNABB HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

Keith Angstadt

USEF Dressage Judge USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist ADS Driving Dressage Judge

Dressage Training & Instruction Keith Angstadt

USEF Dressage Judge USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist ADS Driving Dressage Judge

• Full Care Facility • Individualized Programs • Excellent Footing • Indoor & Outdoor Arenas • Ample Turnout

Lynda Angstadt

USDF L Graduate USDF Bronze Medalist USPC DC/JDC

• Reasonable Rates • Truck-ins Always Welcome • PVC Paddocks • Onsite Competitions & Clinics

Excellent Location – minutes from Routes 495, 95, and 93

318 Boxford Rd., Haverhill, MA (978) 374-0008 kdangst@comcast.net or leangst@comcast.net 40

April/May 2017

Merrimack Valley Dressage Shows April 23 - Ride Review Ride May 7 . July 23 . August 20

Intro to 4th and above; fabulous footing and judges.

New for 2017 - offering USEA event tests and western dressage tests!

High-score awards; discount for Pony Club.

5 – 6 CHRISTOPH HESS CLINIC, Rosebrook Farm, Georgetown. cindirosewylie.com.

7 GRAZING FIELDS FARM SHOW II, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

13 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

6 NEECA CATHY DRUMM WESTERN/ENGLISH DRESSAGE CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.

7 CROWLEYS TACK AND HORSE AUCTION, Agawam. crowleyshorses.com.

13 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

6 POLO MATCH, Boston Polo, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

7 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SHOW, Bradford Equestrian Center, Haverhill. leangst@comcast.net or (978) 374-0008.

13 – 14 NEDA SPRING SHOW, Marshfield. neda.org.

6 4-H AND OPEN HORSE SHOW, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

6 HUNTER/PLEASURE SHOW, Ruth B. Dickson Memorial Rings, Weston. westonshows.com.

6 HCRC CLEAN-UP DAY, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

6 THREE-PHASE SCHOOLING SHOW, Groton. grotonponyclub.org.

6 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

6 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

6 – 7 BRDC SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

7 CRDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.

7 BSTRA SCAVENGER HUNT, Upton. bstra.org.

7 SPRING-IT-FORWARD SCHOOLING TWO PHASE, Pepperell. atouchofmajic.com.

7 SPRING TIDE FARM MHC SHOW, Boxford. springtidefarminc.com.

7 HDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.

7 DRESSAGE AND TWO PHASE, Ruth B. Dickson Memorial Rings, Weston. westonshows.com.

12 GAMES NIGHT, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

12 – 13 HUDSON VALLEY ARABIAN SHOW, West Springfield. hvaha-show.org.

12 – 14 NEECA SUSAN HARRIS CLINIC, Windswept Farm, Petersham. neeca.org.

13 – 14 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Southampton. grindstonemountainfarm.com.

14 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill Farm, Richmond. wnepha.com.

14 MOTHER’S DAY VERSATILITY CHALLENGE, Blandford Fairgrounds, Blandford. theblandfordfair.com/horseshow.html.

14 MOTHER’S DAY HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

14 MAY THREE-PHASE, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

14 SSHC SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. sshconline.org.

14 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.

Western Dressage

13 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

17 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

MOUNT HOLYOKE COLLGE & CATHY DRUMM PRESENT

LESSON SERIES

Riders, whether you’re a pro or amateur looking for information and inspiration about Western Dressage, take a private or semi-private lesson with New England’s first and premier Western Dressage Clinician. $75 Auditors, come watch the lessons,you’ll be given time to ask questions and join in the discussion. $20

MAY 17 • JUNE 21 • JULY 12 • AUGUST 30 Mount Holyoke Equestrian Center, South Hadley, MA Large, irrigated outdoor dressage arena, and in bad weather, access to indoor arena.

To learn more and sign up: cathydrumm.com • cathy@cathydrumm.com Massachusetts Horse

41

Supporting our horse community since 2001.

17 – 21 FIELDSTONE SPRING FESTIVAL, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

17 – 21 MQHA ANNUAL MAY SHOW, West Springfield. massqha.com.

20 IEA WESTERN ZONE 1 FINALS, Smithfield Farm, East Falmouth. rideiea.org.

20 MYOPIA HUNT SPRING HUNT DINNER, Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

Donating more than 2,000 Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Awards to Bay State competitions.

20 BLESSINGS FARM OPEN HOUSE, Charlton. blessingsfarm.org.

Raising more than $60,500 for horse-related nonprofit groups through the Massachusetts Horse Benefit.

20 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

Providing free subscriptions to the members of 32 organizations and clubs.

In our 16th year of news, photos, and event coverage.

20 HCRC BARN FIRE PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS SEMINAR, Southampton. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

20 HUNTER SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

20 SPRING THREE PHASE, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

20 NEECA SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Lake Dennison, Royalston. neeca.org.

20 – 21 COW SORTING, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com.

21 NEDA SPRING SCHOOLING SHOW, Tewksbury. strongwaterfarm.org.

Connecticut Morgan Horse Association

Open Horse Show June 7 – 10 West Springfield, Massachusetts

Morgan . Hackney . Friesian . Saddlebred . Open Breed Classes 7 Open All Breed (three day) Dressage Division Open All Breed Hunter/Jumper Division 7

Therapeutic Lead Line (All expenses paid exhibitor grants available!) 7

Western Dressage

Youth Programs 7

Exhibitor Parties!

Questions? Contact show manager Johnna Chenail (johnnanhtc@hotmail.com) or show chairperson Kristina Vine (wildwindstableskv@gmail.com).

Log on to www.ctmorgans.org for up-to-date information and a complete prize list.

42

April/May 2017

21 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

25 – 28 GREATER BOSTON CHARITY SHOW, Topsfield. greaterbostoncharityhorseshow.com.

28 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW,Overmeade Farm, Lenox. wnepha.com.

21 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.

26 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

29 STEPHIE BAER CROSS-COUNTRY CLINIC, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

21 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

27 NBHA BARREL RACE, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

June

27 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

1 – 4 TOM CURTIN CLINIC, Clover Creek Farm, Rochester. drass@hotmail.com or (781) 910-9597

27 – 28 NORFOLK HUNT HORSE SHOW, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.

2 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

27 – 29 BSTRA MEMORIAL DAY CAMP OUT, Carver. bstra.org.

3 SEHA SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. southeasthunter.com.

21 CMHSS SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net.

27 – 29 MARY WANLESS CLINIC, Medfield. cutlerfarmequine.com.

3 POLO MATCH, Boston Polo, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

21 NORFOLK HUNT FIELD HUNTER SHOW, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.

28 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

3 4-H AND OPEN HORSE SHOW, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

21 HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill .ridecornerstone.com.

28 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish State Forest, Carver. hansonridingclub.org.

3 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

28 MYOPIA POLO OPENING DAY, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

3 HORSE TRIALS, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

21 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

21 SPRING HOP HUNTER PACE, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

21 MYOPIA HUNT SPRING HUNTER PACE, South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

21 BSTRA HUNTER PACE, Douglas. bstra.org.

21 WRC ROBIN STATE PARK RIDE, Feeding Hills. westfieldridingclub.org.

21 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Blythewood Stable, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

21 PETER WHITMORE VERSATILITY CLINIC, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

28 AMHA MINIATURE HORSE SHOW, RonHock Shire Farm, Plainville. nemhs.org.

28 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

3 BACK BAY FARM MHC SHOW, Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.

3 HIPPITY HOP CIRCUS, Blue Rider Stables, North Egremont. bluerider.org.

Massachusetts Horse

43

3 STARGAZER HILL FARM MHC SHOW, Plainville. stargazerhillfarm.com.

4 CROWLEYS TACK AND HORSE AUCTION, Agawam. crowleyshorses.com.

11 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

3 – 4 TEN BROECK FARM BREED SHOW, Sons of the Wind Farm, Merrimac. (631) 338-6340.

4 RIDE FOR THE RIBBON, Felton Field, Barre. maridefortheribbon.dojiggy.com.

11 HUNTER SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

3 – 4 BRDC WEEKEND CAMP OUT, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

8 – 11 CCDS ANNUAL DRIVING SHOW, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. colonialcarriage.org.

4 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

9 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

4 AHAM VERSATILITY CHALLENGE, Uxbridge. massarabianhorse.org.

9 – 11 HCRC WESTERN DRESSAGE/OBSTACLE CLINIC AND TWO-PHASE SHOW, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

11 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish State Forest, Carver. hansonridingclub.org.

10 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

11 AUGUST FARM MEDAL DAY, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.

10 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

11 CORNERSTONE FARM HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

10 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Riverbank Farm, Dalton. wnepha.com.

11 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. wnepha.com.

10 NEECA EQUESTRIAN SHOWCASE, Athol. neeca.org.

11 GRAZING FIELDS FARM SHOW IV, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

10 HANOVER HUNT AND RIDING CLUB ANNUAL SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

11 STALL MATES 4-H CLUB SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

10 HERRING BROOK FARM HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

11 WRC SPRING 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

11 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES,New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

11 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

4 FUN SHOW SERIES, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com.

4 CRDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.

4 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com.

11 BSTRA NATIONAL TRAIL DAYS RIDE, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. bstra.org.

4 MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

4 GRAZING FIELDS FARM SHOW III, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

4 NORFOLK HUNT HUNTER PACE, Dover. norfolkhunt.com.

4 OPEN JUMPER SHOW, Chelmsford. midnightmoonstables.com.

44

April/May 2017

11 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.

14 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

14 – August 29 MYOPIA HUNT HOUND EXERCISES on Wednesdays (8 a.m.) and Saturdays (8 a.m.), South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

15 – 17 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. extrememustangmakeover.com.

We have your horse.

Always a nice selection of horses and ponies for sale.

Watch videos and view photos at HeritageFarmEasthampton.com.

15 – 17 SUMMER KICKOFF OPEN SHOW, Northampton. vtspringclassic@aol.com.

16 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

17 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

17 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

17 ALISON EASTMAN-LAWLER EVENTING CLINIC, Groton. cdctaonline.com.

17 HRC VERSATILITY CLINIC, Thankful Hearts Stable, East Bridgewater. hansonridingclub.org.

17 – 18 BRUCE DAVISON CLINIC, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

18 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill Farm, Richmond. wnepha.com.

18 STOCK HORSE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.

18 SSHC SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. sshconline.org.

18 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

18 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

18 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

WNEPHA Dressage Show Ranch Versatility New England Stock Horse Shows April 22

April 23, noon to 5 p.m.

Check the ew rn website fots! even

June 18 & September 17

Five Individually Judged Classes: Ranch Horse Handiness, Ranch Trail, Ranch Pleasure, Ranch Reining, and Working Cow Horse.

WNEPHA Hunter Shows Summer Wrap-up Auction

July 16 & October 1

Open to buy, sell, and trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment.

Nice Horses for Nice People.

August 27

The R aucher Family 30 Florence Rd., Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 HeritageFarmEasthampton.com State Auctioneer license # AU450

18 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW/WMAA SHOW, Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

18 CMHSS CAMP MARSHALL EQUESTRIAN TEAM SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net.

18 SCHOOLS-OUT OPEN SHOW, Pepperell. atouchofmajic.com.

18 NSHA EQUITATION SHOW, Evenstride, Byfield. northshorehorsemens.org.

21 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

Massachusetts Horse

45

21 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

25 HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

27 – July 1 NORTHEAST BENEFIT SHOW, Northampton. northeastbenefithorseshow.com.

21 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

25 HCRC CHESTERFIELD GORGE RIDE, Chesterfield. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

28 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

21 – 25 PLYMOUTH ROCK HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Fieldstone Show Park, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

23 – 25 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Groton House, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com.

28 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

24 HORSEMINDSHIP GROUND DRIVING WORKSHOP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.

28 – 29 USDF/USEF SUMMER DRESSAGE SHOW, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

25 NEECA CATHY DRUMM WESTERN/ENGLISH DRESSAGE CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.

30 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

25 BRDC SCHOLARSHIP OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

30 HERRING BROOK FARM HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

24 HCRC RACHEL HACKETT AND JO BUNNY CLINIC. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

25 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.

July

24 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

25 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Byfield. northshorthorsemens.org

24 CRDA SUE ROBERTO BUCHANAN CLINIC, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.

25 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

24 – 25 NORTH STAR PRO RODEO, Marshfield. northstarprorodeo.com.

25 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. xenophonfarm@aol.com or (413) 367-9828.

23 GAMES NIGHT, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

23 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

24 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

25 HDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.

25 WRC BLANDFORD SKI AREA RIDE, Blandford. westfieldridingclub.org.

1 POLO MATCH, Boston Polo, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

1 4-H AND OPEN HORSE SHOW, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org. (4 p.m. show) 1 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

2 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

2 HORSE TRIALS, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

A Touch of Majic Equestrian Center

Riding Lessons and Training

• English and western lessons – beginner to competitive rider.

• Specializing in three-day eventing, hunter/jumper, western, recreational riding, and riders with special needs.

• Professional training – young horses, behavioral issues, rehab cases, show horses, and your all around “good citizens.”

• Event team, IEA teams, working student positions • Home of RVT Custom Horseshoeing

Boarding & Services

• Full-service board and semi-rough board • Lay-up care • Training and sale board • 280' x 95' indoor arena with heated lounge and sound system • Outdoor riding arena • All-day turnout • Nutritional programs • State-of-the-art security system • Full-time staff; in-house farrier • Access to miles of trails

Horse Shows

May 7 Spring-it-Forward Schooling Two-Phase June 18 Schools-Out Open Show July 9 Show-us-your-Stripes America Open Show August 6 Beachin’-It Summer Fun Open Show September 10 Back-to-School-Blast Open Show

Horsemanship Skill Weeks Eventer Boot Camp – April School Vacation Skill Week 1 – June 26-30 Skill Week 2 – July 10-14 Skill Week 3 – July 24-28 Skill Week 4 – August14-18

Meghan Bourque Tyler 2 Old Farm Lane, Pepperell, Mass.

(781) 956-7484 ATouchofMajic.com Meghan@atouchofmajic.com

46

April/May 2017

2 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown. wnepha.com.

2 FUN SHOW SERIES, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com.

4 MARION 4TH OF JULY SHOW, Washburn Park Road, Marion. marionhorseshow.com.

5 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

5 – 9 NHHJA SHOW, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

5 – 9 USHJA EAP REGIONAL TRAINING SESSION, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

6 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com.

7 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

7 – 9 REGIONAL 4-H SHOW, Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. mass4h.org.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB EVENTS!

APRIL 9 - Worthington Red Bucket Pancake Breakfast Ride

MAY 20 - Barn Fire & Emergency Preparedness Seminar NEW!

JUNE 9-11 - Western Dressage/Obstacle Clinic & Two-Phase Show with Cathy Drumm and Heidi Potter NEW!

20 MAY ire F Barn tion en Prev MT & E ness ared Prep kshop Wor

JUNE 24 Rachel Hackett & Jo Bunny Clinic NEW!

JUNE 25 - Chesterfield Gorge Ride

JULY 21-23 - Camping at Wagon Wheel Campground !

AUGUST 5-6 - Weekend-O-Fun! NEW SEPTEMBER 10 - Hawley State Forest Ride

OCTOBER 15 - Northfield Mountain Fall Foliage Ride

8 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

NOVEMBER 4 - Hammonasset Beach State Park Ride

8 – 12 MIGUEL ANACORETA CLINIC, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

www.HampshireCountyRidingClub.org

9 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

Massachusetts Horse

47

9 SHOW-US-YOUR-STRIPES AMERICA OPEN SHOW, Pepperell. atouchofmajic.com.

9 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

15 RIDE AND DINE BENEFIT HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

9 WNEPHA MHC HUNTER SHOW, Richmond. wnepha.com.

15 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

9 WNRDC PIPESTAVE HILL HORSE TRIALS, West Newbury. wnrdc.com.

15 NBHA DOUBLE BARREL BASH, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

9 WRC BECKET LAND TRUST, Becket. westfieldridingclub.org.

15 AUGUST FARM MEDAL DAY, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.

10 CENTURY MILL MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

16 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

12 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

16 SUMMER FUN SHOW, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

12 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

16 NEDA SUMMER DRESSAGE SHOW, Millis. neda.org.

!

R

12 HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

Rides from one-day and 15 miles to three-days and 100s.

Maine to Virginia Schedule, rules, etc. at

www.ECTRA.org 48

April/May 2017

14 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

9 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

12 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

with U e s id

14 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

16 NO BULL SORTING, Dartmouth.

(508) 995-8803.

16 JULY THREE-PHASE, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

16 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.

21 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

16 HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

21 – 23 HCRC CAMPING WEEKEND, Wagon Wheel Campground, Warwick. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

16 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.

22 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

16 MHC SHOW, Plainville. stargazerhillfarm.com.

22 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

16 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Wolf Rock Farm, Plympton. southcoastseries.com.

22 – 23 UMASS BREED SHOW, Hadley Farm. (908) 963-4026 or kmoff268@gmail.com.

16 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/ DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

23 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst. wnepha.com.

16 BRDC NEECA OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

23 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008 or leangst@comcast.net .

18 – 23 AQHA REGION 6 SUPER SIX SHOW, West Springfield. massqha.com.

23 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

19 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

19 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

23 HUNTER SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

23 GRAZING FIELDS FARM MEDAL DAY, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

Crowley’s Commission Sales Horse & Tack Auctions April 2 . May 7 . June 4 Tack at 10 a.m., Horses to Follow

English & Western Pleasure Horses Super Cow & Reining Horses Cowboy Collection Quarter Horses Consignments of tack and horses welcome.

Visit crowleyshorses.com for more details.

Early consignments get the best number.

Don’t miss out on our incredible horses at great prices!

Come buy the best, from the best!

Auction Catalog at CrowleysHorses.com PRIVATE HORSE SALES | TRAIL & PONY RIDES RIDING LESSONS | CUTTING & SORTING CLINICS

CROWLEY’S COMMISSION SALES

32 Shoemaker Lane Agawam, MA 01001 (413) 786-1744 www.crowleyshorses.com

Briggs Stable

85 Annual th

June Show

Mini Shows Wednesday evenings starting at 6 P.M. June 21 to August 30 All members of the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club are eligible for year-end awards.

Saturday • June 10

Lead Line . Therapeutic . Walk Trot . Games Jumping . Equitation . Pleasure

Outside Course Warm-ups 6:30 to 8 A .M. Trailer Parking Starts at 6 A .M.

Great food and drinks available at the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club food booth.

Briggs Stable • Route 139, Hanover Centre, MA

Briggs Stable • 623 Hanover St., Hanover Centre, MA (781) 826-3191

Affiliated with NEHC, MHC, and SSHC MHC, NEHC, and SSHC Medal Classes

Class lists may be downloaded at www.briggsstable.com.

Show Manager: John Dougherty (781) 826-3191

Program may be downloaded at www.briggsstable.com.

Visit Briggs Tack Shop, a full service shop, while at the show!

Massachusetts Horse

49

24 – 29 NEW ENGLAND MORGAN SHOW, Northampton. nemha.com.

30 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

25 – 28 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC I, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

30 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

26 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

26 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

APRIL 21 ~ 23 MassQHA Youth, Novice, and Open Show (massqha.com)

JUNE 15 ~ 17 Summer Kickoff Open Show vtspringclassic@aol.com 27 ~ 7/1 Northeast Benefit Horse Show (northeastbenefithorseshow.com)

JULY 7~9

Regional 4-H Horse Show (mass4H.org)

24 ~ 29 New England Morgan Show (nemha.com)

AUGUST 3~6

CT Summer Classic Show (ctasb.com)

10 ~ 13 Northampton Hunter/Jumper (biscuithillfarm.com)

SEPTEMBER 1~4

Three County Fair (threecountyfair.com)

8 ~ 10

Massachusetts State 4-H Show (mass4-H.org)

28 ~ 10/1 Mass. Horsemen’s Council Days of Champions (mahorsecouncil.com)

413.584.2237 threecountyfair.com

50

April/May 2017

28 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

28 – 30 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW/YANKEE COLOR CLASSIC AND ALL BREED SHOW, West Springfield. westernmaapp.homestead.com.

31 – August 3 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC II, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

August 2 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

2 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

2 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

29 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

3 – 6 CONNECTICUT SUMMER CLASSIC SHOW, Northampton. ctasb.com.

29 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

4 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

29 HEAD OF THE BAY EQUITATION DAY, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

5 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

29 – 30 USEA HORSE TRIALS, StoneleighBurnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.

5 POLO MATCH, Boston Polo, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

30 SUMMER THREE PHASE, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

5 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

5 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

Myopia Hunt

5 NEECA YOUTH FUN DAY, Athol. neeca.org.

5 HORSEMINDSHIP GROUND DRIVING WORKSHOP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.

5 GRAZING FIELDS FARM MEDAL DAY, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

5 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Blythewood Stable, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

Join us in 2017 for fox hunting and much more!

Spring Hunter Pace ~ May 21 Casual Summer Hound Exercises June - August

Fall Hunt Season begins September 23 Hunter Trials ~ October 22 Fall Hunter Pace ~ November 5

5 – 6 HCRC WEEKEND-O-FUN, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

Myopia has many opportunities to participate, watch, and volunteer.

For more information, please visit

6 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Wolf Rock Farm, Plympton. southcoastseries.com.

6 BEACHIN’-IT SUMMER FUN OPEN SHOW, Pepperell. atouchofmajic.com.

117th Myopia Horse Show September 1, 2 & 3

Spring Roading begins April 29

www.myopiahunt.org.

We invite you to join us as we preserve the future through the traditions of the past.

6 AUGUST THREE-PHASE, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.

6 FUN SHOW SERIES, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com. © Eric Schneider

6 4-H HOT TO TROT SHOW, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

6 MHC SHOW, Plainville. stargazerhillfarm.com.

6 WRC GAMES DAY, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

6 BRDC CNEER OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

8 GRAZING FIELDS FARM MEDAL DAY, Buzzard’s Bay. grazingfields.com.

9 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

9 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

10 – 13 NORTHAMPTON HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Northampton. biscuithillfarm.com.

11 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

12 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

12 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

12 COUNTRY COOKOUT HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

13 CRDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.

Angie Tollefson

10 HERRING BROOK FARM HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

Open Shows . Horse Trials . Clinic

Open Show Series

May 20 . June 11 July 23 . August 27

Champion & Reserve in all Divisions!

Horse Trials & Dressage June 3 . July 2 Sept. 17 . Oct. 14

Pre-Elementary through Novice!

Elisa Wallace Clinic June 24 – 25

Four-star three-day eventer, OTTB advocate, and Mustang trainer!

Azrael Acres, 144 Williams St., Uxbridge, Mass. (508) 234-2678

Visit azraelacres.com for class lists, brochures, and more information.

Massachusetts Horse

51

13 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

13 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

13 NEECA CATHY DRUMM WESTERN/ENGLISH DRESSAGE CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.

13 AUGUST FARM MEDAL DAY, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.

Presents the 22nd

Equine Expo Paraphernalia Sale Saturday, April 29, 2017 . 9-3 Large marketplace of new and used items!

Plus services for the horse, rider, and driver.

Demonstrations All Day . $5 Admission Held in the Arena Building at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, Route 1, Topsfield Vendor Spaces Available . Free Parking

Contact Kay at: 978-768-6275 or kljoreo@aol.com

13 SSHC SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. sshconline.org.

13 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW/WMAA SHOW, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

18 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

18 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

19 –20 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

19 NO BULL SORTING, Hixville Livery Stables, Dartmouth. (508) 995-8803.

19 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

20 MYOPIA HUNT HUNTER TRIAL SCHOOLING, South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

13 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablesllc.com.

20 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.

16 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

20 HDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.

16 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

20 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

16 – 19 MMHA SHOW, West Springfield. massmorgan.com.

20 CMHSS SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net.

16 – 20 SILVER OAK JUMPER TOURNAMENT, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

18 HERRING BROOK FARM HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarmma.com.

20 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

20 WRC LITTLEVILLE DAM RIDE, Huntington. westfieldridingclub.org.

20 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SHOW, Bradford Equestrian Center, Haverhill. leangst@comcast.net or (978) 374-0008.

20 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Millis. appleknoll.com.

20 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

20 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill Farm, Richmond. wnepha.com.

20 CORNERSTONE FARM HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

20 BRDC APPLE VALLEY PONY OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

22 – 26 NEHJA DERBY FINALS, Fieldstone Show Park, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

23 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

23 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

24 – 27 NERHA NORTHEAST SUPER SLIDE-IN, West Springfield. nerha.com.

25 NER BULLS AND BARRELS, New England Rodeo Ranch, Norton. newenglandrodeo.com.

26 FUN DAY, Blue Rider Stables, North Egremont. bluerider.org.

52

April/May 2017

27 MHJ HUNTER/JUMPER FINALS, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

September

27 HUNTER SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

1 – 3 MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, Myopia Schooling Field, South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

27 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

2 NEECA CATHY DRUMM WESTERN/ENGLISH DRESSAGE CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.

27 SUMMER WRAP-UP AUCTION, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.

2 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.

27 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

27 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Overmeade Farm, Lenox. wnepha.com.

27 BSTRA HOOF AND SNEAKER POKER RUN, Mendon. bstra.org.

30 BRIGGS STABLE MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

30 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

30 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.

30 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Holly Hill Farm, Marston Mills. capecodhunter.com.

31 BACK BAY FARM MHC SHOW, Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.

2 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW AND FINALS, Saddle Rowe, Medway. capecodhunter.com.

2 – 4 HORSEMEN’S MEMORIAL WEEKEND, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

2 – 4 BLANDFORD FAIR SHOW, Blandford. theblandfordfair.com/horseshow.html.

3 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

3 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.

3 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

3 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com.

5 – 21 MYOPIA HUNT CUBBING on Tuesdays (8 a.m.), Thursdays (5 p.m.), and Saturdays (8 a.m.), South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.

Dressage Schooling Show Series

May 21 - “L” judge Meg Hilly June 25 - “R” judge Bill McMullin July 30 - judge TBA Sept. 10 - “L” judge Kathryn Hitzig October 8 - “r” judge Keith Angstadt

Dressage Clinics

Bill McMullin . Sharon McCusker Bill Warren . Verne Batchelder Like us on Facebook to see who’s coming!

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Stalls available in the 16-stall barn with attached indoor arena. Nestled at the base of Mt Toby this “Massachusetts Horse Farm of Distinction” provides outstanding care for you and your horse.

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508-763-5158 . www.chipawaystables.com Massachusetts Horse

53

6 AKF JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.

10 BACK-TO-SCHOOL-BLAST OPEN SHOW, Pepperell. atouchofmajic.com.

16 BRDC DENTAL CLINIC with Rich Walthers, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

8 – 10 NEECA CAMPOUT WITH HORSES, Athol. neeca.org.

10 HCRC HAWLEY STATE FOREST RIDE, Hawley. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.

17 HORSE TRIALS, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

8 – 10 MASSACHUSETTS STATE 4-H SHOW, Northampton. mass4-H.org.

10 CORNERSTONE FARM HUNTER SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

9 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

10 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

9 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Blythewood Stable, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

10 BSTRA PLEASURE RIDE, Barre. bstra.org.

17 HRC VERSATILITY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

17 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.

17 SCHOOLING TWO PHASE/DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

17 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

9 MHC SHOW, Bolton.centurymillstables.com.

10 MYOPIA POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

9 – 10 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Southampton. grindstonemountainfarm.com.

10 MHC CLASSIC, Briggs Stable, Hanover. mahorsecouncil.com.

10 SOUTH COAST SERIES SHOW, Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.

13 – 17 USHJA ZONE 1 HOTY FINALS, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. thebige.com.

10 FALL HUNTER PACE, Spencer. campmarshallequestriancenter.net.

15 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org.

17 STOCK HORSE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.

16 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW/DERBY/MEDALS, Bellwether Stable, Richmond. wnepha.com.

17 FUN SHOW SERIES, Countryside Farm, Attleboro. countrysidefarmma.com.

16 TEAM PENNING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

17 BSTRA FALL HUNTER PACE, Douglas State Forest, Douglas. bstra.org.

16 HRC FIESTA DAY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

17 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablesllc.com.

10 OPEN JUMPER SHOW, Chelmsford. midnightmoonstables.com.

10 WNRDC ADVENTURE TRAIL, West Newbury. wnrdc.com.

10 WRC FALL 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

17 BRDC OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

17 SEHA SHOW AND FINALS, Saddle Rowe, Medway. southeasthunter.com.

May 21, 2017 July 9, 2017 August 27, 2017 September 10, 2017 Adding Two Schooling Canter Classes

August 4, 5, 6, 2017

Email Questions to: judy@cheshirehorse.com 54

April/May 2017

21 MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.

21 – 24 SADDLEBRED, HACKNEY, MORGAN, FRIESIAN SHOW, West Springfield. thebige.com.

23 MASSACHUSETTS HORSE BENEFIT ADVENTURE TRAIL, Wilbraham. Combined hunter pace, timed obstacle course, and horsemanship knowledge quiz. To benefit the MSPCA Equine Center at Nevins Farm. mahorse.com.

23 TEAM SORTING, Chipaway Stables, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com.

23 MHC/NEHC HUNT SEAT SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

23 – 24 EQUESTRIAN TALENT SEARCH, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.

23 – 24 USEA HORSE TRIALS, StoneleighBurnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.

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Massachusetts Horse

55

the

neighborhood

ASSOCIATIONS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAY STATE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOCIATION bstra.org Keeping trails open for equestrian use; organized trail rides; volunteer opportunities for trail clearing and maintenance.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB Goshen, MA, (413) 268-3372 hampshirecounty ridingclub.org Monthly trail rides, woodland obstacle course, scavenger hunt, and clinics.

BARN CATS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• PAWS WATCH Newport, RI, (401) 848-9867 pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent control. Delivered!

DRESSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BRADFORD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Haverhill, MA, (978) 374-0008 Dressage for all disciplines and driving.

Keith Angstadt, USEF dressage judge.

CATHY DRUMM Pittsfield, MA, (413) 441-5278 cathydrumm.com Clinics, lessons, training, western and English dressage, hunter/jumper.

FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-8038 dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor.

MEG HILLY South Deerfield, MA, (802) 595-1258 mhilly@mtholyoke.edu USDF “L” judge; FEI rider; private, semiprivate lessons; clinics.

NANCY LATER LAVOIE Ashby, MA, (561) 714-7447 nancylaterdressagehorses.com Training, lessons, clinics. Accepting new students of all levels. Top-class facility.

WHITE SPRUCE FARMS New Braintree, MA, (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com Dressage shows, instruction, all levels/ages.

EQUINE DENTISTRY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 ravenhillequine.com Natural balance equine dentistry.

Improved topline, maximized performance, increased flexion. Serving New England/New York.

NORTHEAST EQUINE VETERINARY DENTAL SERVICES LEAH LIMONE, DVM Topsfield, MA, (978) 500-9293 nevds.com Licensed professional veterinary dentistry.

Routine preventive care, maintenance, diagnostics, extractions.

56

April/May 2017

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

EQUINE MASSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• EQUISSAGE NE/NY MA, CT, RI, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Integrated body work for performance horses: reiki, Masterson Method, sports and therapeutic massage, myofascial release, cranio-sacral therapy, infrared photon therapy.

HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans.

HAFLINGERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough.

HORSES FOR SALE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Auctions, sale horses, shows, clinics, boarding, lessons, and training.

STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable. Supplying NE with horses and ponies since 1967. Forty family, trail, and show horses to choose from. New loads every week. We buy horses, take trade-ins and consignment horses. Great three-weekexchange guarantee. Find us on Facebook.

INSTRUCTION/TRAINING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACK BAY FARM Ipswich, MA, (978) 356-0730 backbayfarm.com Lessons, boarding, training, and sales.

INSURANCE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CORINTHIAN INSURANCE AGENCY Medway, MA, (877) 250-5103 corinthianequine.com Equine protection specialists.

DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors.

FARM FAMILY INSURANCE farmfamily.com Carver: (508) 866-9150 Easthampton: (413) 203-5180 Great Barrington: (413) 528-1710 Marlborough: (508) 485-3800 Middleborough: (508) 747-8181 Northborough: (508) 393-9327 Norwood: (781) 255-2002 South Deerfield: (413) 665-8200 Southwick: (413) 569-2307 Topsfield: (978) 887-8304 Westford: (978) 467-1001 Williamstown: (413) 458-5584 Worcester: (508) 752-3300

JUDGES •••••••••••••••••••••••••• MARY BRAZIE Egremont, MA, (413) 528-2367 arabpinto13@yahoo.com Judging open, 4-H, carded.

ED GOLEMBESKI Gill, MA, (413) 863-2313 riker119@comcast.net 4-H, open shows, clinics, lessons.

NORWEGIAN FJORDS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE HERON FARM Charlemont, MA, (413) 339-4045 blueheronfarm.com Quality, purebred registered Fjords.

PHOTOGRAPHY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• KAREN MORANG PHOTOGRAPHY Find us on Facebook.

Equine photography and events.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA N. Dighton, MA, (508) 863-0467 melissaroot.com Equine portrait photography and events.

REAL ESTATE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• ALTHEA BRAMHALL HOMETOWN REALTORS North Quabbin region, (617) 678-9300 althearealtor@gmail.com Real estate is more fun with horse people!

EQUINE HOMES REAL ESTATE LLC MA and NH, (800) 859-2745, ext. 704 equinehomes.com sally@equinehomes.com Sally Mann, Realtor, MA and NH. BERNICE GIARD REALITY Oakham, MA, (508) 882-3900 oakham@charter.net Country properties.

STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CARRIER’S FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-0333 rcarrier0333@gmail.com Indoor, outdoor arenas, round pens, fields.

GLENCROFT FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-8026 kraymond24@hotmail.com Boarding, pastures, ring, trails, fields.

STRAIN FAMILY EQUESTRIAN CENTER LLC Southwick, MA, (413) 569-5797 strainfamilyequestrian.com Boarding, lessons, training, sales, therapeutic riding.

TACK •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CHESHIRE HORSE Swanzey, NH, (877) 358-3001 cheshirehorse.com English, western, feed, supplies, trailers.

DR. COOK BITLESS BRIDLE (866) 235-0938 bitlessbridle.com Safe, gentle, effective alternative to using a bit.

SMARTPAK RETAIL STORE Natick, MA, (508) 651-0045 smartpak.com/retailstore Tack, equipment, supplements, blankets, apparel, gear, gifts, clearance outlet.

TRANSPORTATION •••••••••••••••••••••••••• J.R. HUDSON HORSE TRANSPORTATION West Bridgewater, MA, (508) 427-9333 jrhudsonhorsetrans.com Serving the lower 48 states and Canada.

VETERINARIANS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• FAMILY VETERINARY CENTER Haydenville, MA, (413) 268-8387 famvets.com Traditional and alternative care for dogs, cats, exotics, and horses.

SOUTH DEERFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC DR. ROBERT P. SCHMITT S. Deerfield, MA, (413) 665-3626 sdvc@aol.com Equine medicine, surgery since 1969.

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. . . Your Letters continued from page 7

That said, I don’t agree with the proposed law that would require all Massachusetts equestrians to wear helmets at all times when riding on both public and private land. I believe it’s unjust to take away the individual’s right to choose whether or not to wear protective headgear, and that it’s an ineffective way to challenge negative attitudes toward helmet use, primarily due to how difficult it would be to enforce such legislation. Rather than trying to change laws, we should be trying to change the culture that surrounds helmet use. The more people who elect to wear helmets, the more

standard such gear will become, even in the show ring.

Wear a helmet; make your kids wear a helmet. Put pressure on judges not to penalize those who wish to protect their heads in favor of achieving a certain look. Start a trend, challenge the norms, and maybe one day you’ll look around and see that you’re not the only one in your class with a helmet on your head and a ribbon on your horse’s bridle.

Helene Kasper, Greenfield

Let us know your thoughts!

We’ll enter you to win a $25 Cheshire Horse gift card. All letters received

by May 5 will have a chance in the drawing. Send your letters to: steph@mahorse.com or Massachusetts Horse, 99 Bissell Rd. Williamsburg, MA 01096.

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295 High St, Ipswich, Mass.

srhvets.com

Honor a junior at your upcoming event with a free Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award.

To learn more, visit mahorse.com/Junior_Award.html.

Bob & Nancy Carrier . (413) 527-0333 16 David St., Southampton, MA

Massachusetts Horse

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Christina Desmarteau Photography

Is This Your Horse?

Is this your horse?

This photo was taken at the Massachusetts Horse Benefit Adventure Trail in September. If this is your horse, contact us at win@mahorse.com for a month’s supply of SmartPaks and more from the Bay State’s very own SmartPak, smartpakequine.com. Join us for the 2017 Benefit Adventure Trail on September 23. To learn more, visit mahorse.com.

advertiser index A & B Insurance Group ................... 23 A & B Lumber Barns ........................ 19 Apple Knoll Farm ........................... 39 Azrael Acres ................................... 51 Bacon’s Equipment ....................... 45 Barnstable Farm and Pet ............... 32 Barre Riding and Driving Club ....... 48 Betsy Merritt ................................... 5 Blue Dog Leather ........................... 35 Blue Rider Stables ......................... 50 Blue Seal Feed .............................. 60 Bob Burrelli ................................... 55 Bradford Equestrian Center ........... 40 Briggs Stable Mini Shows ............... 49 Camp Marshall Equestrian Center . 48 The Carriage Shed ........................... 2 Carrier’s Farm ................................ 57 Cathy Drumm .................................. 41 Cheshire Fair Horse Shows ............ 54 The Cheshire Horse ........................ 31 Chipaway Stables ........................... 53 Connecticut Morgan Horse Assoc. . 42 Country Corral ............................... 13 Crimson Acres ............................... 55 Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association ............................. 48 Eastern States Exposition Show ... 36 Essex County Trail Association ..... 52 Ethel Walker School ....................... 52 DK Saddlery ................................. 35 Don Ray Insurance Agency ............. 6 Fairview Farms JJC ........................ 57 Family Veterinary Center ............... 15 Farm Credit East ............................. 17 Farm Family Insurance .................... 4 Gretchen Almy Designs ................. 26 Hampshire County Riding Club ..... 47 Hampshire Tractor Corp. ............... 21

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April/May 2017

Hanover Hunt and Riding Club ...... 49 Heritage Farm ................................ 45 Horse ’n Hound Physical Therapy . 58 HorseBack and Body ..................... 21 Independence Stable .................... 55 It’s a Pleasure Training .................. 21 Jenn’s Tack & Blanket Service ........ 6 Just Horses .................................... 57 Keller Williams Realty .................... 25 Linda Parelli Master Class ............. 55 Lord Leather Care .......................... 58 Massachusetts Horse Benefit ....... 59 Mitrano Removal Service .............. 55 Mountain Top Inn & Resort ....... 44 Myopia Hunt ................................... 51 Natural Balance Equine Dentistry . 21 New England Equestrian Center of Athol .................................. 38 Nicole Birkholzer ........................... 32 Northeast Equine Veterinary Dental Services ....................... 50 Portraits by ShawnaLee ................. 55 RER Ponies .................................... 57 Salty Dawg Equine Services .......... 28 SmartPak Retail Store ................... 34 South Coast Series ........................ 47 South Shore CFO ........................... 55 South Shore Equine Clinic ............. 27 Stoneleigh-Burnham School .......... 43 SRH Veterinary Services ................ 57 Three County Fair .............................. 50 A Touch of Majic Equestrian Center . 46 Triple Crown Feed ........................... 11 Western Horseman ....................... 37 WNEPHA ........................................ 35 White Spruce Farms ....................... 33 Xenophon Farm ............................. 53 Yered Trailers ................................ 13

Adventure Trail Massachusetts Horse Benefit

Exclusive access to private trails in Wilbraham!

5,000 More than $ ards, n aw in prizes, fu uction, ta raffle, silen ! and food

What’s an Adventure Trail? It’s a hunter pace, timed obstacle course, and horsemanship knowledge quiz combination.

Hunter Pace

Aproximately seven miles, 15 natural jumps, teams of two/three riders in three divisions: Walk Trot . Trail Rider . Field Hunter

Timed Obstacle Course

Participate in one, two, or all three events.

Ten obstacles, four divisions: Novice Youth . Novice Adult Open Youth . Open Adult

Christina Desmarteau Photography

September 23, Saturday

Horsemanship Knowledge Quiz

Fun for riders and nonriders, four divisions: Novice Youth . Novice Adult Open Youth . Open Adult

Christina Desmarteau Photography

mahorse.com and follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/MassachusettsHorseBenefitShow

All proceeds to benefit:

Massachusetts Horse

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID MONROE, CT PERMIT

Amherst Farmer’s Supply 320 Pleasant St., Amherst (413) 253-3436 amherstfarmerssupply.com A.W. Brown Pet & Garden Center 144 Shaker Rd., E. Longmeadow (413) 525-2115 . awbrown.com Bernardston Farmer’s Supply 43 River St., Bernardston (413) 648-9311 bernardstonfarmerssupply.com

Brattleboro Agway 1277 Putney Rd., Brattleboro, VT (802) 254-8757 . achilleagway.com

Dodge Grain Company 59 N. Broadway, Salem, NH (603) 893-3739 . dodgegrain.biz

Bridgewater Farm Supply 1000 Plymouth St., Bridgewater (508) 697-0357 . bridgewaterfarm.com

Essex County Co-op 146 S. Main St., Topsfield (978) 887-2309 essexcountycoop.net

Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 . countrycorralonline.com

Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville . (413) 477-6913 hardwickfarmers.net

#140

Hoosac Valley Coal and Grain 2 Gavin Ave., Adams (413)743-0163 hoosacvalleycoalandgrain.com Sweet Meadow Feed & Grain 111 Coolidge St., Sherborn (508) 650-2926 sweetmeadowfeedandgrain.com Thibault’s Poultry 92 N. Spencer Rd. Spencer (508) 612-1907