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DOES YOUR HORSE GET TO CHOOSE? HORSE LOGIC
THE FORGOTTEN ONES HORSE RESCUE LEND A HOOF
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contents
April/May 2019
columns 14 The Forgotten Ones Horse Rescue Smart Plus Heart Saves Horses
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Stacey Stearns
Lend a Hoof
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20 Does Your Horse Get To Choose? Horse Logic
34 Events Calendar Massachusetts Only
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features 8 New England
Morgan Horse Show Celebrates 80 Years
in every issue 16 Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
Trail Guide
Lead Feature
5 From the Publisher 7 Your Letters 22 Overherd 26 Partners
12 Lazy Stallion Friesians West Bridgewater Farm Feature
18 Linda Parmenter A Career in Balance Horseperson Feature
47 This Olde Horse 48 The Neighborhood 50 Is This Your Horse?
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FARMFAMILY. COM
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Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
From the Publisher
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crossed without question. When we went to shows, either he hew! That seemed like the never-ending winter, needed an extra-wide trailer or we had to move the divider, didn’t it? I’m thrilled to hear peepers and see as he’d panic and scramble about otherwise. We’d arrive at a green grass poking through the soil. horse show with Baritone facing Horse activities abound out the back of the trailer, having throughout the state, so be sure untied himself and maneuvered to check out our Events Calendar himself around. Sometimes, I saw (starting on page 34) to find clinhim wink at me! ics, seminars, trail rides, and comMy childhood history is full petitions in your part of the state, of wonderful memories of my and enjoy. time with Baritone. I imagine Morgan horses are part of my most Massachusetts equestrians youth and perhaps yours as well. I have a special Morgan in their rode Baritone, owned by Alice past. On page 8, read about the Beal, on the trails and in the show Bay State’s history with the New ring during my high school years. England Morgan Horse Show as Baritone taught me that I needed it celebrates 80 years. to use my brain while riding, not Soon, the bugs will be out just my body, plus patience and How lucky was I to ride and show this beautiful Morgan gelding owned and we’ll be searching the pasadventure. He would test me by Alice Beal when I was 17 in 1982? ture for the elusive fly mask our almost daily and at the same time horse left behind, squashed into the mud and grass. Isn’t it was always willing to go on an adventure. amazing how they “Houdini” out of them? I’m content to be He’d refuse to cross a little stream (test) but when I outside, under the sun, with my ponies. needed him to ford the North River to help another horse and rider, he marched right in, water up to his belly, and
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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New England Morgan Horse Show 1968 Helen Orcutt Noble, DVM and Command Performance
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very summer for the past 79 years countless Morgan enthusiasts have flocked to a Morgan horse show in the New England region. Show chair Carolyn Sebring noted that the committee is anticipating nearly 500 entries that will be competing for more than $70,000 in prize money. This is quite a difference from the first year when the show attracted 23 Morgan owners with a total of 60 horses. The first show, held in 1939, marked the 150th anniversary of the birth of a horse named Justin Morgan. It also marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of Colonel Joseph Battell, founder of the American Morgan Horse Register. It was rightly a year for celebration. Owen Moon of Upwey Farms in South Woodstock, Vermont, then vicepresident of the Morgan Horse Club (precursor to the American Morgan Horse Association [AMHA]), chaired a committee to organize an exhibition of all available Morgan horses to properly commemorate the event. Owen Moon was already host to the Vermont 100-Mile Trail Ride sponsored by the Green Mountain Horse Association. Many Morgans were entered annually in the trail ride. It was logical to complete this three-day Labor Day weekend event with an all-Morgan show. In this way the “National” was born. The early shows, held at the Upwey 8
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Oval, were family affairs. A hillside served as the grandstand, but practically all of the spectators were railbirds. A more ardent and down-to-earth group of exhibitors and spectators could not be found. When not munching on box lunches, everyone talked horse. Many spectators even planned their vacations to include this one-day show. International events gave pause to this new Morgan venture when World War II interrupted the fledgling show, with no events held from 1943 to 1946. Not to be permanently deterred, however, Ted Davis, of the esteemed Windcrest Farm, was charged with the responsibility for revival of the show after the war, and that’s exactly what he did. Windcrest Farm hosted the show from 1947 to 1949, with up to 150 Morgan entries in one year. By this time the show had expanded to a two-day event with the horses of Dr. Wallace L. Orcutt, Upwey Farm, the U.S. Morgan Horse Farm, Windcrest Farm, and Townshend Farm always being strong competitors. These early breeders were dedicated to promoting the Morgan horses they loved. It soon became clear that in order to accommodate their growing numbers Morgan Horse Club would once again need to find a larger “home” for the National Morgan Horse Show. At that time Vermont was the recognized home of the Morgan horse, so the
Celebrates 80 Years by Suzy Lucine and Susan Colleton
idea of moving the show out of Vermont caused some dissent among members. J. Cecil Ferguson of Broadwall Farm, Rhode Island, then president of the New England Morgan Horse Association, headed the search for a more appropriate and acceptable, location for the group’s blossoming show. In 1952, the show moved to the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton. The fairgrounds offered permanent stabling and an outdoor ring, which would help to maintain the family atmosphere, and the town of Northampton was a popular choice because of its convenient location and its exhibitor-friendly amenities. The move to Northampton also meant a new show date because the Labor Day weekend was not available at the fairgrounds, so the National was moved to July. In 1970, the National Morgan Horse Show’s name was changed to the Eastern National Morgan Show, and the show that year was held at the Eastern States Exposition Center in West Springfield, Massachusetts. That same year, Massachusetts Governor Francis Sargent signed a bill adopting the Morgan as the official state horse. In 1973, the Morgan Grand National was established and the Eastern National Morgan Show became the New England Morgan Horse Show,
1961 Orcland Vigildon Get Of Sire National Win
an American Morgan Horse Association Regional Championship Show. The following year, the event was moved back to Northampton, and the rest, as they say, is history. And what a glorious history it has been. Through the years, countless memories have been made, both in and outside the show ring. Traditions were born that have long been upheld. Going to Northampton in July is a way of life for many in the Morgan world, even if they aren’t showing horses. Imagine, 80 years later, there are scores of people whose summer vacation plans still revolve around showing horses at the oldest Morgan show in the world. Another footnote about the show is that, in addition to its elite horse show status, NEMHS remains so special because it is still a celebration of family and friends. The family tradition, of both people and horses, is generational and Northampton friendships span decades. There are tales of exhibitors who crossed the Mississippi River to attend, and one owner who crossed an entire ocean to show at this infamous event. In the early years, staunch New Englanders bristled when coveted awards went to “outsiders,” such as the Sire and Get class that was won by a Morgan stallion west of the Hudson River. Eventually, traditions were put aside and new friendships formed, so today all are welcome, no matter how big the body of water crossed. Simply riding or driving into the
1965 Mark Hanna and Kathleen Hanna Kabel on Promenade
winner’s circle at the National holds lifelong memories for many. When Art Perry of Intrepid Farm took Intrepid Marlene back to Northampton from California in 1980 and won the Pleasure Driving Mare class, it was especially meaningful for him because she was the first offspring of Bar-T Invader to carry the Intrepid prefix. The late trainer Doris Ryan of Irish Lane Farm in Delavan, Illinois, gained lots of friends from the New England area in the late 1950s when she showed the Midwestern-bred stallion The Brown Falcon, and defeated the New England favorite, Waseeka’s Nocture. Over the years, Doris also enjoyed showing against her friend Bill Parker of Joe Parker Stables in Amenia, New York. Sue Caisse will never forget when she won the Open English Pleasure Championship riding R Bar B Charley Brown in 1974. That year, there were three sections in the final of this division, and the top horses from each division were called back into the ring for the final work-off. Over the years, due to outside factors, the overall number of entries has lessened, but the quality of competition is still deep. There may be a large number of entries in this year’s Amateur English Pleasure Championship as the prize money is $10,000 takes all. This class was previously offered in the mid 2000s and was very popular. In 2000, The Chronicle of the Horse named Denny Emerson of Tamarack Hill Farm in Strafford, Vermont, and Southern Pines, North
Carolina, as “one of the most influential horsemen of the twentieth century.” Denny’s love of Morgans goes way back to 1953, as a 12-year-old attending the National Morgan Horse Show in Northampton. His grandmother and aunt lived in Northampton, so his parents would leave him with them, and they would take him to the show every summer. When Denny’s parents bought him his first Morgan, Lippitt Sandy, in 1956, Denny became an exhibitor at the National Morgan Show the following year. For the next five years, Denny showed his gelding in Fitting & Showmanship, the Justin Morgan Performance class, and driving classes. Later, he showed Morgans for the Green Mountain Stock Farm and the Lippitt Farm. “The week of the National Morgan Horse Show in Northampton was always ‘Old Home Week,’” Denny says. “I remember sitting in the grandstands at night watching the classes. It was the place everyone went in July, and I looked forward to meeting with my friends and fellow exhibitors Nancy Ela Caisse, Susie Robinson, Jeannine Krause Myers, Ted Niboli, and Judy Cameron Barwood.” For nostalgic reasons, for the past ten years Denny has tried to spend at least one day at the show each summer. Denny, along with many others, have witnessed the renovations to the Three-County Fairgrounds. “There are several huge changes, and the biggest was the elimination of the harness track that circled the Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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1974 Ann Hutcheson Scussel and Acadia’s Auburn Lady
fairgrounds,” Denny says. “The other was the loss of use of the rickety, but beautiful, grandstand overlooking the main ring. “The updated stabling is far better now,” Denny says. “We had old shed rows along the opposite side of the grounds from the grandstand, and the first thing we did, before unloading horses into them, was to pull nails that the harness people had put in to hang tack from.” This year, Denny’s plans include showing at the 80th annual show riding High Brooks Rock Star, a 13-year-old bay mare, in the dressage division. “Any time the ‘clans’ gather is a time for celebration, and having that show as an annual Morgan centerpiece gave that stability and warmth,” Denny says. One of today’s top children’s authors, Ellen Feld, a two-time International Reading Association/ Children’s Choices winner, has a series of books about Morgan horses. Ellen first entered the show ring in Northampton in the 1970s, but she got to the competition in a very unusual way. She lived in the nearby town of Amherst but had no way of getting to the show as she didn’t have a trailer. So Ellen tacked up her gelding in his Sunday best, dressed herself in a saddle suit, grabbed a bag that had brushes and a few odds and ends in it, and rode to the show. It took them about two hours! Besides dealing with all the traffic, they had to cross the Coolidge Bridge over the Connecticut River and ride through the Route 91 underpass. The experience getting to the show must have been a good warm-up for a horse about to compete in a Trail class. Once at the show, they competed and won, and then, blue ribbon hanging from Don Lee Rusty’s bridle, Ellen rode home. 10
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1964 Joe Parker and Bay State Gallant
Camaraderie amongst the Morgan enthusiasts extends out into the community, from the hospitality industry to local business owners. Many years ago, members of the Agawam Baptist Church offered meals at all hours of the day. For quite some time, the Bistro was the main food vendor, and now the show has an agreement with Lattitude from West Springfield. In recent years, huge tents have been pitched in the mid-field, offering food service as well as an assortment of vendors. Tailgate parties were always plentiful, and once the box seats were constructed parties moved into these seats. Long-time exhibitors will also remember the enthusiastic Bobbin Hollow summer campers from Belchertown, who yelled and stamped their feet so loudly in the grandstands whenever Woody or Marsha Henry was in the ring. “One memorable class I laugh about with my brother is when we were both in the trotting race,” says Marsha Henry Shepherd of Shelbyville, Tennessee. “I was on Bay State Duet and Woody was on Ebony Girl. I was a little ahead of Woody before the first turn, and all of a sudden Ebony Girl passed me, but without Woody. She won the race, and Woody caught up later.” Northampton is special to some while others dread dealing with the elements. But they show anyway, because the event is steeped in tradition and the prestige that accompanies it. It has dust, rain, thunderstorms, sunshine, beautiful evenings, and hot, humid days. It has character. Some of the breed’s most important horses started at this show. “As a kid, I remember the chilly nights before there was box seating, when we would back the truck up to the
rail,” says Kathleen Hanna Kabel, formerly of Framingham and now from Anaheim Hills, California. “We would line up the beach chairs in the back of the truck and root for our favorite horses and friends. I can still hear Bill Shepard’s seal-like hooting and hollering. Who could ever forget that? He was everyone’s horse show dad, standing in the corner near the ingate, and offering his support as you rode or drove by him. We were always right next to the Waseeka Party Bus and it was the same group of people every year.” “My first year at Northampton was 1962,” says Ann Hutcheson Scussell of Pittstown, New Jersey. “Aunt Nita (Anita Hoitsma of Bridal Vale Farm in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey) and I went to watch, and I was so fascinated that I sat by that chain link fence in front of the grandstand for as long as there were horses in the ring. “Northampton is the one show you can meet people who maybe haven’t shown or even had Morgans for years, but still come to watch,” Ann says. “The show has such special memories for everyone.” “I first showed at Northampton in 1980,” says Roxanne Sardelli Greenway of Sarde Morgans in Clayville, Rhode Island. “There are so many favorite memories — golf carts, good friends, and great horses. Morgan friends are the best friends in the world!” Carolyn Sebring, of Sebring Stables in Richmond, first showed in Northampton in 1968 with Barbara Irvine of Bridle Vale Farm. She showed in three different divisions, and her first blue ribbon came from a Stock Seat Equitation class win. “We would get to the show several days ahead of time,” Carolyn says. “Then we would take side trips to visit famous trainers of that era
1960 Suzy Lucine and Towne-AyrHolly
1957 Denny Emerson and Lippitt Sandy
at their farms, of which I have so many wonderful memories.” “To me, the best memories of this show come from those made with the Morgan people, and the things that happened outside the show ring,” Carolyn says. “One of our show committee goals is to bring back the enjoyment for the exhibitors. We want the ‘outside’ the ring experiences to be family friendly and exhibitor friendly.” In honor of the 80th anniversary event, the show committee is offering several throw-back classes. These include a Family class, which is open to family members who are blood relatives or individuals who are barn member relatives. There will be a Trail Exhibition class and a Versatility class, where the entry will be shown one way under saddle, one way in harness, and will be asked to jump two obstacles. Outside the ring a mini judges’ school will be held, with one in-hand class and one performance class to be judged. The annual Youth of the Year contest will be held along with the United Professional Horsemen’s Association Pulled Pork Lunch. There will also be a welcome party, a wrap-up party, and who knows what impromptu events will happen in-between. One of this year’s judges, Terry Brennan of Hollister, California, has been an official at this show many times. Growing up in California, Terry always imagined someday being able to show at the National Morgan Show in Northampton. “For me that dream began first through the pages of The Morgan Horse magazine,” Terry says. “I loved looking at the pictures of all the wonderful horses that graced that ring. Wonderful people like Johnny Lydon, Mary DeWitt, Lyman Orcutt, and Anna Ela were all names in the magazine that
made a young girl believe that maybe someday she might be able to show at this prestigious show.” “I believe the first time I watched the show was in the mid-seventies when exhibitors were still backing their trucks up around the arena with their lawn chairs in the bed of their trucks,” Terry says. “At that time, I was a young assistant for a well-known trainer and my eyes were wide open to watch the greats that passed through those gates. Bennfields Ace, UVM Promise, Schenectady, Big Bend H Bomb, Zip Code, Gladgays Promenade, Overlook Robin, and UVM Amber, just to name a few of the many wonderful horses I was able to watch show. I’ve shown many times in multiple divisions from English Pleasure, Pleasure Driving, Roadster and Park at this show, and it’s always a thrill to trot down that track and enter the ring! “I always consider it a privilege and honor to judge this grand horse show!” Terry says. “The history, traditions, and the show grounds are a true testament to generations of devoted people who work to make every year better than the last, and to the exhibitors who always come to put their best in the ring. It will continue to be one of my favorites to judge and this year will be no exception.” This year’s New England Morgan Horse Show will be held July 23 to 27 at the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton. The competition will offer 12 divisions in the main arena, as well as classes for junior riders in four different equitation seats. The third annual High-Point Sport Horse award has 12 different qualifying classes. Back by popular demand will be the second annual East Coast Hunter Classic, and the $10,000 winner-take-all Amateur English Pleasure Championship. New
this year will be the $25,000 Two-YearOld Park Harness Championship. Added prize money for this award was raised when 17 Morgan stallion owners offered a breeding to their stallion to the Morgan Stallion Sweepstakes. If you attend the New England Morgan Show this coming July, no matter where you sit or stand, you’ll find people, both young and old, who have favorite classes they remember. They’ll sit in the box seats and grandstand as well as line the rail, and talk of performances of yesteryear, how the judge pinned the class, how individuals performed, and what they thought of the outcome. On this 80th anniversary, let’s make more memories for this generation of Morgan horse lovers! Suzy Lucine was the 2013 recipient of the Mabel Owen Media Award. In 2016, she was inducted into the AMHA Hall of Fame. In the 2017 Morgan Horse Industry Honors, she received the Favorite Writer/Show Reporter Award, as voted by her peers. Suzy is the former editor of The Morgan Horse and the Horsemen’s Yankee Pedlar and coproducer of the Morgan Horse Video Review. She’s enjoyed a lifelong involvement with Morgans. With her parents and sister, she bred, raised, and showed Morgans with their Sugarstone prefix. She has also been an active volunteer on show committees and with youth groups. Suzy has more than 30 years experience as a freelance writer and photographer. Susan Colleton visited the National Morgan Horse Show in Northampton in 1961 and has been in love with the breed ever since. She’s owned and shown Morgans for more than 50 years. Susan has been the contributing editor for the Horsemen’s Yankee Pedlar, feature writer for the Morgan Connection, and works for The Morgan Horse magazine. A New England Morgan Horse Association’s Person of the Year, and long-time member of the NEMHS show committee, Susan enthusiastically looks forward to this year’s 80th anniversary show.
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Farm Feature
West Bridgewater
by Alessandra Mele
Lazy Stallion Friesians
e’ve all got a story that begins with, “I went to Equine Affaire and came home with . . .” Maybe it was that new saddle you just couldn’t pass up, or the pink blanket for your gelding. We’re certainly all guilty of yet another saddle pad. William “Billy” Piazza and his wife Caren have a good chuckle when they recall a particular Equine Affaire about 15 years ago, from which a certain pur-
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Built with Each Horse in Mind Ytsen may have gotten the Piazzas hooked on Friesians, but it was a Quarter Horse who really started it all. In 2002, the Piazzas had just purchased a home in West Bridgewater, where Billy ran Suburban Insulation Company, the company his father started in 1958. There was a neglected horse nearby that Caren took notice of — she knew he needed a loving home. His name was Bo.
Stallion, and many years later we thought it a fitting name for our farm.” Looking at the property today, however, “lazy” is simply not an adjective that comes to mind. The place is meticulous, and has been built to best accommodate the horses that live there, as well as the people that care for them. It’s hard to believe the setting is only three acres, as the Piazzas have designed it to allow for ample turn-out, complete
chase changed the course of their lives. “Billy went down to West Springfield with a friend, interested in Rocky Mountain horses,” Caren says, smiling. “But it was there that he first saw Ytsen, a magnificent Friesian gelding, and we ended up taking him home along with two others. That’s how our love for Friesians started.” That trip to Equine Affaire led to a life devoted to the majestic breed, many unforgettable horses, and the outstanding facility that is Lazy Stallion Friesians in West Bridgewater. The three-acre property is a haven for the training, breeding, and sheer enjoyment of Friesians, providing top care with an interest in preserving the integrity of the breed. Many fine examples of these graceful black horses have come through the Piazzas’ gates, but it all goes back to Ytsen, whose recent passing has left a powerful void at the farm. “He was drop dead gorgeous,” Caren says. It’s in Ytsen’s memory that Caren and Billy continue to bring out the best of this special breed at Lazy Stallion Friesians.
“The owners wouldn’t surrender him so we bought him and took him home,” Caren says. “We didn’t have a barn yet, so we put all house renovations on hold and started construction on the barn. We built a makeshift stall in the garage where Bo lived for a little while, but soon he had a twelve-stall barn all to himself!” The stalls weren’t empty for long though, as Billy would soon take that fateful trip to Equine Affaire and bring home three big Friesians. The beautiful facility attracted other Friesian lovers in the area, and the farm opened its doors to boarders. At one point 21 horses, most of them Friesians, called Lazy Stallion Friesians home. The name Lazy Stallion is a relic from Billy’s teenage years. He grew up with 13 siblings, and one of his brothers, Chris, nicknamed Billy “the Lazy Stallion” in reference to his good looks and aloof manner with the ladies. “Billy was drop dead handsome,” Caren says, blushing. “The girls chased him relentlessly but he always ran the other way! So his brother called him the Lazy
training, and peaceful enjoyment of the natural beauty surrounding the horses. The original main barn holds 12 roomy stalls, and in 2013 a spacious indoor arena fit for carriage driving was constructed, with a four-stall barn attached. Round pens and paddocks have been added — Billy’s always looking to make improvements. Lazy Stallion Friesians has been named a Massachusetts Farm Bureau Horse Farm of Distinction multiple times, and the happy attitudes and sheer magnificence of the horses that live there reflect that accolade. The people engaging with the horses regularly can attest to that. Gina works at Lazy Stallion Friesians and thoroughly enjoys the Saturdays she spends at the stables. “Caren and Billy are really great people,” she says. “They love their horses and you can see that in the way they take care of them and the property. Even if it’s a rainy day and the horses are stuck in their stalls, they’re so friendly and pleasant to be around. You can just tell they’re very happy horses. That’s because here they’re loved like family and are given the best care.”
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Monica Southwick keeps her three Thoroughbreds at Lazy Stallion Friesians, and has been working with the Piazzas and their horses for years. “One of the things I love about this place is the individual attention each horse receives,” Monica says. “The facility is set up perfectly for that. I started working as a groom here years ago, and it’s been so nice to see the facility grow over time. It’s clear Billy and Caren are willing to invest in the particular details that make a barn comfortable for both horse and rider. It’s a gorgeous facility, and it’s also very practical, which is an important balance.”
A Love for Friesians As beautiful as the facility is, it’s the horses living at Lazy Stallion Friesians that truly make the place feel like home. When Billy and Caren first became interested in Friesians, the breed was coming out of a period of near-extinction, and there were few farms in the area catering to the romantic black horses. “There was only one farm we knew of focusing on Friesians at that time in Massachusetts, which is where our original three Friesians came from,” Caren says. She remembers seeing Ytsen for the first time, just after his appearance at Equine Affaire. “I said to Billy, ‘I like this horse.’ ” Billy enjoyed the Friesians he and Caren had opened their home to so much that he became interested in breeding as a means of preserving the integrity of the breed. Lazy Stallion Friesians has welcomed nine foals since it first started breeding, and the Piazzas take great joy in seeing the foals grow and reach their full potential. They have sold most, but keep the ones that they have deep connections with, like Giselle, a filly out of Billy’s favorite driving mare, Mitsuoko, a.k.a. Mitzy. He’s currently working with the young mare in harness, happy to see her following in the hoofprints of her dam. Driving was a discipline Billy took up when he could no longer ride because of a bad leg. He became very interested in carriage driving and the history of Friesian horses in harness, but had a hard time finding someone to teach him the skill. “So, he bought some books, and taught himself,” Caren says. It’s a perfect example of Billy’s can-do attitude. “He loved it, and competed with Mitzy for years.” A nearly six-year battle with
cancer has held Billy back from the show circuit in recent years, but with the cancer now in remission, he’s eagerly looking toward the 2019 season with Giselle in harness. Billy and Caren belong to the Northeast Friesian Horse Club and enjoy participating in the organization’s shows. “We love going to local shows like Hanson Riding Club, Topsfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, and the Eastern States Exposition,” Caren says. They’ve been back to Equine Affaire as well, but with Friesians of their own. “We’ve dressed up and done the breed demonstration before Fantasia, and love educating on the characteristics and abilities of a good Friesian horse,” Caren says. Ytsen was always the star of the show though, and he’s sorely missed in the show ring and in the barn. He was a four-time world champion, and in his presence, you’d think he’d won more. Monica often rode him in local shows, and will never forget the thrill. “I’d never ridden Friesians until I came to Lazy Stallion,” Monica says. “I grew up riding hunter-jumpers. I started riding Ytsen and he was just an incredible horse. He was easy-mannered and still so fancy, which made him a lot of fun to show. I used to ride him in the Dressage Hack [class], and he loved a good hand-gallop! It was a totally different feeling riding a Friesian, and Ytsen was very patient with me while I was getting used to it. That ride is unlike anything else!” Caren and Billy understand that thrill Friesians can bring, and just watching the horses enjoy life on the farm brings them equal joy. You can see it when Billy is carefully harnessing Giselle, teaching her important skills ancient to her breed, or as Caren grooms a homebred youngster, imagining the possibilities ahead. Lazy Stallion Friesians is a magnificent tribute to the breed. From Friesians lounging blissfully in sunny paddocks to the freshly groomed indoor arena awaiting fresh carriage tracks to fields with grazing youngsters, Lazy Stallion Friesians achieves the perfect balance of a gorgeous and practical farm, and Caren and Billy carry pride in all that it’s become. “It’s home,” Caren says, simply. Alessandra Mele is a freelance writer and designer in Wilbraham. She enjoys spending time with the horses on her family’s farm, especially riding her Quarter Horse, JoJo. To see more of her work, visit thehomegrownstudio.com.
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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Lend a Hoof
Townsend
The Forgotten Ones Rescue by Kara Noble
Smart Plus Heart Saves Horses
orry we’re not open. We’ve gone to find a pony.” Jessica Rollins tacked that sign on the door of Bridle Path Tack Shop in Westminster on October 1, 2018. It was the day she and her daughter’s riding instructor, Katrina Klee (owner of Stepping Stones Equine Academy in Gardner), went to Forgotten Ones Horse Rescue in Townsend to meet Cinderella.
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Cinderella is one of many success stories Jennifer has produced since she started the Forgotten Ones Horse Rescue in June 2018. Her work with neglected and abused equines has demonstrated that she has the patience, skill, integrity, and determination to run a quality horse rescue — yet that wasn’t the equestrian career she expected to pursue.
When the increasing popularity of Warmbloods cut into the market for Thoroughbreds, Jennifer got into training and breeding German shepherds. She turned her attention to canine competition and made it to the Canadian German Shepherd Nationals. She decided to give up horses. “I sold my horse and my trailer, got rid of everything,” Jennifer says.
Jessica was looking for a pony for her 10-year-old daughter Emily, who loved to ride but was intimidated by big horses. At 12.1 hands, Cinderella was the ideal size. Katrina was looking for a pony for her lesson program. Elevenyear-old Cinderella looked like she could deliver the combination of patience and sassiness a pony needs to be a good teacher. After the two women spotted the bay pony in the online adoption listings for Forgotten Ones Horse Rescue (FOHR), they decided to buy her together. Katrina instant-messaged Jennifer Marschhausen, owner and founder of FOHR, scheduled an appointment, and hooked up her trailer. When Jessica and Katrina arrived, Cinderella stood quietly on the crossties, the picture of a chubby, contented pony. By that evening, the little mare was settling into her new stall at Stepping Stones.
Jennifer grew up as a competition and catch rider in Maine, managing barns, schooling horses, training, and teaching. “I was a big-time competitor,” she says. “Hunter and jumper threefoot-six to three-foot-nine, and novice and intermediate eventing. Every other weekend, I went to horse shows like Attitash Equine Festival or Myopia North Shore.” By 2001, she’d had enough of cold Maine winters and competition pressure. Jennifer moved to Townsend to be closer to friends and connected with the veterinarians and trainers at Suffolk Downs Race Track in Boston. “I have a good eye for a sport horse,” Jennifer says. “My friends at the track would call and say they had a three-year-old Thoroughbred, a good mover who was too slow for the track. Over the course of ten years, I retrained a lot of off-the-track horses and sent them on to successful careers in hunter and jumper rings and in eventing.”
A year-and-a-half later, Jennifer had second thoughts, and started looking for a well-trained competition horse. The more she looked, the more she learned about unwanted horses, about the slaughter pipeline, about how bad life was for some equines. “I saw so many two-, three-, four-, and five-year olds being dumped,” she says. “They were all sound with wonderful attitudes. I saw beautiful horses being left to die.” Her focus shifted. “I thought, I can buy one already trained competition horse or I can save some horses,” Jennifer says. “I didn’t start out to do anything noble, but when I saw what was happening, I knew what I wanted to do.” Since its start, the mission of FOHR has been to find neglected or abused horses, nurse them back to health, then match them with owners who will give them a forever home and a bright future.
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FOHR is small — just three-and-ahalf acres, at the end of a dead-end road in Townsend. (Jennifer is trying to buy another five-and-a-half acres across the street to expand turnout.) The original barn was built in the 1700s and required extensive renovations to make it rescue ready. Jennifer does most of the work at the rescue herself, so she has to be realistic about what she can handle. “I’ve had to learn when to say no,” she says. “I’m not in a position to take horses with aggression or severe behavior issues.” To maintain a manageable workload, she usually keeps only six horses at the rescue at a time. Her rescue process begins at killpen auctions in New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and elsewhere. When she goes, she’s very aware that she’s a 116-pound blonde walking into auctions full of big, tough guys. “I don’t argue with them,” she says. “I don’t get in their faces or try to council them. I’m not there to change their minds. I’m there to save animals. I hand them the money and get the horses off the property.” During the spring of 2018, Jennifer found four young horses — including a bay pony mare — in very bad shape at a slaughter holding pen in Louisiana. “The mare was emaciated, though not as bad as some,” Jennifer says. “She had skin problems. Her hooves were so overgrown they looked like spatulas; they curled up at the toes. When we trimmed her, we found pockets of blood [from skin being torn as the hoof grew out and curled out].” Jennifer bought Cinderella (named for her not-so-magical “hoof shoes”) along with Troy, Odyssey, and Nemo. Back at Forgotten Ones Rescue many hours later, Jennifer secured the four horses in their stalls and did what she often does once newcomers are safely settled. She cried. “Out of relief,” she says. Jennifer starts new horses on a feeding program based on UC Davis’s Recommendations for Refeeding a Starved Horse. “I feed small bunches of good quality hay through the day, as much as they want to eat, and as much water as they want to drink,” she says. “I swear by extruded feeds. They’re easy on the stomach. Early on, I teach new horses to eat alfalfa mashes. It’s a simple feeding combination that works.” Kira McClellan, who works at Farmers Exchange of Townsend and
who cares for the animals at FOHR when Jennifer is out of town, says people can contribute to the rescue by purchasing feed, hay, and horse care items through the Exchange. “Jennifer has an account with the store and we deliver to her for free,” Kira says. “People can buy gift cards or make deposits on her account to support the rescue.” Since Jennifer largely funds FOHR activities out of pocket, every donation is a big help. Nursing horses back to health at FOHR involves lots of time grooming, petting, and talking to the animals. “It helps them relax,” Jennifer says. “They’re so worn out. They’ve been underfed. They’re sick and stiff because they’ve had to stand for thirty-six, fortyeight, seventy-two hours, or more without being able to lay down. They love a light curry. As you curry them, you hear their gut sounds start. Their heads come down and their bodies loosen.” Grooming also builds rapport essential to helping horses through painful but necessary treatments. Jennifer remembers a Thoroughbred mare named Valid Humor who looked like her leg had fallen through the floor of a trailer. “It had to be treated,” she says, “but I couldn’t explain to that mare why I had to put her through more things that hurt. It paid off. She ended up sound, and now has a great home in New York.” Working closely with the horses also helps Jennifer decide what kind of forever home each one needs. She insists that each horse go to exactly the right home. “They go to good places or they don’t leave,” she says. Jennifer evaluates horses under saddle, and adds groundwork and training so she can give prospective adopters as much information as possible about an animal. “I want prospective owners to ask me questions,” she says. “Questions show they care.” Evaluations and training enable her to provide answers that help adopters make good choices. After six months of working with Cinderella, Jennifer was able to explain how the mare preferred to be bridled and to speculate that she had some Hackney in her. Knowing she might have been a driving pony without riding experience was critical information to Jessica and Katrina.
Adoption marked the beginning of Cinderella’s happily ever after. “The first day we had Cinderella, my daughter Emily walked into her stall and threw her arms around that pony’s neck,” says Jessica. “They’re buddies. This mare is the best thing that could have happened in Emily’s equestrian life.” Katrina found adopting Cinderella was such a positive experience that she recently got a second mare named Rebecca from FOHR. Jennifer is grateful to adopters like Jessica and Katrina, people who realize that there are thousands of wonderful horses in the rescue pipeline. “Be smart. Work with a reputable rescue that will work with you,” she says. “But don’t turn down a rescue horse beccause of the assumption that the horse has something wrong with it to ‘end up like this.’” Want to lend a hoof? Find The Forgotten Ones Horse Rescue on Facebook. Kara Noble has a pair of Icelandic mares and a pair of mini donkeys at her farm in Montgomery and has ridden for most of her life. She’s a professional writer and editor and holds an MFA in creative nonfiction.
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Trail Guide by Stacey Stearns
Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
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est, and protecting their habitat has been a focus for the DCR. Scrub oak and pitch pine currently dominate the forest.
artha’s Vineyard is a vacation destination for many in the Bay State and beyond — only accessible by boat or air. At the heart of the island is the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, a 5,343-acre jewel for outdoor enthusiasts and trail users, including equestrians. The forest reserve was created in 1908 in an attempt to save the heath hen, a type of grouse, from extinction
I connected with Sarah McKay at Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center in West Tisbury (read more about Misty Meadows in the Lend a Hoof article in the February/March 2019 issue). I
due to overhunting. It became a state forest in 1926, known as Heath Hen Reserve. The heath hen went extinct in 1932, but its memory lives on through a large statue in the forest. Manuel “Manny” F. Correllus was superintendent of the forest from 1948 to 1987, and spent a total of 58 years working in the forest. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) renamed the forest in Manny’s honor. The forest is located in the geographic center of the island, in the towns of Edgartown and West Tisbury. During the busy summer months, it’s one of the few quiet and peaceful locations on the island, far from the crowds of tourists and beach-goers. It’s open to bicycles, hikers, dogs, hunting, equestrians, and has a popular disc golf course. Martha’s Vineyard has a robust equine community, and lots of horses frequently use the trails. A couple of local hunter paces also utilize the trails in Correllus State Forest. The DCR is working to revitalize the native ecosystem, the Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens Ecoregion, as part of an environmental restoration project. Endangered moths live in the for-
chose to ride one of her horses instead of trailering my horse and using the ferry for the first time with a horse trailer in tow. If you don’t want to trailer your horse over to Martha’s Vineyard, you can trail ride with Esperanza Riding Company during the summer season. Talk to your veterinarian before you trailer over about getting some medication for your horse. Some horses have become unsettled on the 45minute ferry ride. Although Sarah has never had a problem, she always travels with medication from her veterinarian in her first-aid kit as a precaution. I took the Steamship Ferry from Woods Hole on Cape Cod to Vineyard Haven. Be sure to book your ticket in advance if you’re taking your car, or traveling with a trailer. The West Chop and East Chop lighthouses greeted the ferry as we slowly worked our way from Vineyard Sound into the port of Vineyard Haven. Misty Meadows is in West Tisbury, a town referred to as “Up-Island,” a seafaring term referencing the westward, longitudinal movement of ships. A fun fact: West Tisbury is home to Alley’s
Stacey Stearns
A Leg Up
General Store, established in 1858, and the oldest operating store on the Island. Parking for Correllus State Forest is free, and the lots off of Barnes Road and West Tisbury Road are recommended if you’re coming on your own. Print or download a map at DCR.gov prior to your visit. The forest borders Martha’s Vineyard Airport on three sides. The airport was built during World War II as part of the war effort.
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Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Be prepared to encounter low flying airplanes when riding, although I never saw or heard any airplanes on our ride.
Out Riding It I arrived at Misty Meadows on a sunny Saturday morning in February, and met the young riders who had just finished their drill team practice. Everyone at the barn immediately welcomed me, and one of the girls gave me a tour of the state-of-the-art facility before she helped Sarah and me tack up our horses. I rode a Quarter Horse named Jasper, and Sarah was on Finn. Both horses were from off-island, and Sarah told me that much deliberation, and finally a vote, went into naming the geldings. We rode along the edges of fields that are part of a conservation area to access the forest from the farm. Years ago, the land was divided into one-acre wood lots, and there was discussion about creating one-acre housing lots out of them. Locals stepped in and created one of the many conservation areas on the island to preserve the land. The trails we explored were on the western side of Correllus State Forest.
The forest is separated into grids, and we rode the unpaved dirt roads of the grids that form a checkerboard across the forest. Multiple bridle trails cut across the grids, and we used one to cut through a few grids to make a loop back to the farm. Even with the wet weather we’ve been experiencing this winter, the trails were dry in most places because of the sandy soil. A few spots were wet, but we could easily avoid them. On the unpaved roads we could ride side-byside, and the bridle trails had ample space for the horses to navigate safely. Both geldings are barefoot and had no issues with the footing. A paved bike path makes a 14-mile loop around the forest, and was recently re-paved. There is a wide dirt area next to the path that horses can use. There are only a few places where you must ride on the pavement in the entire loop. I saw a lot of deer prints out on the trails, and Sarah mentioned that they’re often sleeping on the side of trails. More than once she’s startled them when out riding. Hunting is allowed in Correllus State Forest, and is one of the few areas on the Vineyard that hunters
can use. Wear blaze orange if you venture out in hunting season. If you ride up and down the grid lines and the bridle trails, you can get a 14-mile ride in (not including the paved bike path). If you add the bike path, it’s around 25 miles of trails to ride in Correllus. On the trails in Correllus you’re secluded from the activity of the rest of the island. All of the trail users we encountered were friendly and yielded to the horses. The DCR has installed numerous trail yield triangle signs to remind everyone to be respectful of all trail users. As we arrived back at the farm, the resident flock of wild turkeys was grazing on the lawn next to the indoor. We rode close to them, but they were obviously unfazed by us, and the horses were quite used to them as well. Wild turkeys are abundant on the island. Misty Meadows is creating a community within their program as the horses help people explore, learn, and grow. When I’m out on the trail, I often feel a sense of community with other trail users whom I’ve never met before, and will likely never see again. Community and the love of the trails
intertwine us all together in an unbreakable bond. Horses are the common theme through all of this. Trail riding is one of the ways that we deepen the bond and trust with our horses, while also exploring some incredible places. As equestrians, we have a built-in community wherever we go. “If people do bring horses over to the island for a ride, or are here on vacation, they should stop by Misty Meadows for a tour of our beautiful facility and see our programs in action,” Sarah says. Jump on the opportunity to enjoy the trails in Correllus State Forest and the community of the Vineyard. Happy trails! Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.
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Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
17
Horseperson Feature
Hubbardston
by Kara Noble
Linda Parmenter A Career in Balance
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instilled in me the importance of taking pride in barn management,” says Linda. “They taught me not just to keep my barn neat and clean, but also to be very particular about the welfare of the horses in my care.” As a teen, she competed in children’s hunter and beginner/novice eventing on off-the-track Thoroughbreds. An instructor at Clear View Farm encouraged Linda to try dressage. She loved her
t’s about balance,” United States Dressage Federation (USDF) silver medalist Linda Parmenter says. She’s talking about her work as a riding instructor, horse trainer, clinician, and an L level dressage judge. For Linda, that work is about balancing a commitment to high-quality education levels with excellent horse care. It’s about figuring out how to achieve horse goals — even if you’re on
work helped me develop a feel for soundness. That’s had a big influence on my training. I tell my students if a horse acts unhappy, look at its hooves, its back, its digestive tract. My strongest message is to listen, to feel, to work to understand the horse at the physical level.” An afternoon trail ride in 1986 shifted the path of Linda’s horse career. Riding through the woods near her family’s home, she discovered a barn under
Reflections Photography
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Linda and Odin competing fourth level.
Mocha was bottle raised and in charge of the farm.
a tight budget. It’s about hanging onto your youthful passion for horses and riding throughout your life. As the youngest of six children growing up in rural Northborough, Linda had to learn budget-balancing basics early. Her family couldn’t afford horses, but she was determined to ride. By the age of seven, she had mastered the art of borrowing rides. She talked a neighbor into letting her barter farm work for riding time on his mare, Misty, who took her into 4-H, then Pony Club, before she owned a horse. By her early teens, Linda had earned enough babysitting money to buy her first pony. “He had the worst navicular the vet had ever seen,” she says, “but he was a blast.” In 1981, she landed a job working after school and on weekends as the manager of Clear View Farm in Grafton. While there, she earned her riding instructor’s license and began teaching riding lessons before she was old enough to drive a car. Working at Clear View Farm helped lay the foundation for Linda’s horsekeeping philosophy. “The owners 18
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
new discipline’s focus on correctness, on helping the horse move properly. But, she admits that early on, the real allure of dressage was the clothes. “I wanted to ride wearing the tails,” Linda says, confessing. “I really wanted a shadbelly coat.” Dressage was a tough commitment to make in the mid-1980s. Linda and her instructor headed to clinics with dressage luminaries like Carol Lavell and Lendon Gray. After graduating from Algonquin Regional High School in 1983, Linda entered the Animal Science program at Newbury College in Holliston, where she received her associate degree in animal science and certification as a veterinary technician. That program led to an internship with equine veterinary surgeon Dr. Henry Valdez at the Equine Sports Surgery Center in Northbridge. Each day, she and Dr. Valdez traveled to Rockingham Park Racetrack or Suffolk Downs. Afterward, Linda taught lessons and rode horses. “Those were long days,” Linda says, “and I learned a ton. The veterinary
Linda and Darshan’s Hero, owned by Dr. Liz Maloney, competing at third level.
construction. She rode over and introduced herself to the farm’s owner, Sue Steinhof Buchanan. The two became good friends, and Linda soon won herself a job managing and teaching at Sue’s new operation at Maplewood Farm in Berlin. It was Sue who encouraged Linda to take on a handsome Warmblood named Sando Khan, a.k.a. Curley. The horse was a challenge from the outset. “He wasn’t very sound,” Linda says. “He had hoof problems and back problems. He was blind in one eye. He was a hot horse, and he had a huge spook in him. But he was fancy and talented, and he gave me my first big break in the dressage world.” In 1989, three years after Linda purchased Curley, he carried her to a USDF bronze medal. In 1992, she rode him to a USDF silver medal. On Curley, she met the who’s who of dressage. Linda was riding Curley when she met Priscilla Endicott, a founder of the New England Dressage Association (NEDA) and owner of Harvard’s premiere dressage barn, The Ark. Linda was aboard Curley at numerous clinics with
Walter Christensen at The Ark, where her performance so impressed the German dressage master that he invited her to become his working student in Europe. Walter passed away before Linda could go, but she rode for three months in Neumünter, Germany, in 1991 with Walter’s right-hand man, Klaus Martin Rath. In the years that followed, Linda received instruction from some of the most accomplished international and Olympic trainers including Volker Bromman, Sue Blinks, Shannon Dueck, Conrad Schumacher, and Kathy Connelly. She gained skills and experience at clinics with dressage superstars such as Jane Savoie, Robert Dover, Guenter Sidel, Stefan Peters, Felicitas Von Neuman-Cosel, Ralf Isselhorst, and Klaus Balkenhol. Linda is so dedicated to continuing her education that she still takes monthly lessons with Irish national dressage Grand Prix champion Niall Quirk. As Curley’s career was winding down, Linda met Ann Vanosdol, who had recently bought a Friesian named Commander. Ann asked if Linda would train the gelding to develop him into a better driving and sidesaddle horse. When Commander proved to be a talented dressage mount, Ann encouraged Linda to compete him. “He had tons of showmanship,” Linda says. “This was before you saw many Friesians in horse shows. Ann’s husband, Ron, called Commander a ‘babe magnet’ because when you were with him, everyone came over to ask about him.” Linda and Commander won one blue ribbon after another. They rode in a NEDA high-point symposium clinic, presented dressage demonstrations at Equine Affaire and at the Devon Horse Show in Pennsylvania, and made the cover of the Horseman’s Yankee Pedlar. Commander also connected Linda with the Friesians of Majesty farm in Townshend, Vermont, where she became a monthly dressage clinician. In 1994, Linda was ready for a farm of her own. She found 37 acres in Hubbardston. It wasn’t a horse property, but it was just a mile from several huge hay fields and from a trailhead of the 92-mile-long Midstate Trail. She named the place Pinehaven Farm and set about turning it into a dressage training facility. Her barn includes 11 stalls, and it has several fenced paddocks for plenty of turnout. Linda lives next door to the barn. She teaches in an 80' x 200' outdoor dressage arena — as well as in those nearby
fields — and she often conditions horses and students on trail rides. Pinehaven Farm’s residents include Linda’s 23-year-old Dutch Warmblood, FEI-level Odin, and a six-year-old Hanoverian named Perseus that she is training for future competitions. Linda offers training from young horse through FEI, boarding with lesson packages, occasional leases, and show coaching, as well as retirement stalls and rehab services. She also travels weekly to local facilities to teach and train. Marian Walhout, a genetics professor at UMass Medical School, has been riding with Linda for a year and a half at Avondale Meadows at Gleason Farm in Princeton. Marian says her lesson is her favorite hour of the week. “Linda is all about correct riding, and she’s tough and supportive at the same time,” says Marian. “She can explain things about 25,000 different ways, so when something sounds like Swahili to me, she finds another approach to help me understand it. I’ve known a lot of teachers in many disciplines. Linda ranks in the top five percent of all the teachers I’ve known.” Linda customizes her lessons and training program to meet the unique needs of students and horses ranging from high-intensity competitors to retirees riding into their golden years. She’s as proud of 70(ish) Kathleen McCarthy and her 31-year-old Hanoverian, Touli, as she is of her thirdlevel ribbon winners and FEI riders. “I’m encouraging Kathleen to try for the USDF Century Club, which recognizes dressage riders and horses with a combined age of 100 or more,” Linda says. “Kathleen’s worried she’s not good enough to ride in front of an S level judge, but I keep telling her, ‘You can do it!’ And, she can! She’s riding better than ever. I’m excited for her and proud of what she and Touli have accomplished.” Kristin Reynolds, who shares Touli with her friend Kathleen, appreciates how Linda offers generous support and genuine enthusiasm to all her students, regardless of their level. “Everybody is trying to learn things that are important to them,” says Kristin. “Even if they’re small things, they still mean a lot when you learn them. Linda helps us all, whether our goals are big or little. She’s a treasure.” Kara Noble has a pair of Icelandic mares and a pair of mini donkeys at her farm in Montgomery and has ridden for most of her life. She’s a professional writer and editor and holds an MFA in creative nonfiction.
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Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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Horse Logic
Does Your Horse Get To Choose? by Nicole Birkholzer
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ave you ever thought of giving your horse choices intentionally? Choices in how he participates in your daily routines? Most times, often through inattention, we give our horses a choice unintentionally. As you walk your horse from the paddock to the barn, your horse sees the first bright green patch of grass and grabs a mouthful on the fly. Or, as you’re heading down the trail your horse starts walking faster, even changes from a walk to a jog and you go along because you feel how happy your horse is to stretch his legs on the nice soft footing. In this article, I want to share a few opportunities for you to offer your horse intentional choices that will increase your awareness, improve your communication and provide you with insight about your horse’s personality.
of Centered Riding, describes having a soft eye as “wide-open eyes and peripheral awareness, having awareness of your entire field of vision.” As you get closer to your horse, make some observations. Is he relaxed, inviting you into his space, or is he tense, telling you he is not ready to be haltered?
Ask and You Shall Receive
The Invitation The first choice we can give our horse is for him to invite us into his personal space. Horses, just like humans, have a defined personal space, their personal bubble. Often, we enter a horse’s bubble unconsciously and without permission from the horse. We walk right up to our horse, most likely immediately pet them on the nose or put the halter on their head. As a result, some horses become overreactive and defensive, sometimes to the point that they don't want to be haltered or caught anymore and walk away when a person with a halter arrives at the gate. The next time you want to put a halter on your horse, instead of rushing right into your horse’s space, take a nice deep breath as you approach the stall or pasture. Just taking a few deep breaths can get your horse to become more curious about what’s coming next. Then, as you walk up to your horse, take two more conscious abdominal breaths while you observe the horse with a soft eye. Sally Swift, the founder 20
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Once you arrive at your horse’s shoulder hold off on touching him right away. Take another deep breath, let him sniff you if he wants to, and thank him for inviting you into his bubble. The benefits of this simple approach are tremendous. By the time you are face-to-shoulder with your horse, you and your horse are communicating and your horse feels heard and seen by you.
If your horse shows signs of tension — moving away, turning his head away, or putting his ears back — he’s telling you that you’ve entered his bubble too fast, without an invitation. At that point, stop your approach, take a deep breath and wait until your horse shows signs of relaxation. Signs of relaxation include lowering of the head, licking and chewing, blowing out through the nostrils, looking at you, and moving toward you. These are signs that your horse is inviting you into his space. Continue to breathe deeply as you move toward him. Give your horse enough time to reflect back how he feels; give him the choice to let you know when he’s ready to be haltered.
Instead of pushing the halter over your horse’s ears, take another breath and ask your horse to make his next choice by saying, “Please put your muzzle into the halter.” Because you and your horse are already engaged in a conversation, he most likely will gladly stick his muzzle into the nose piece so you can slide or drape the crown piece into position and secure the halter. However, because horses are given so few choices in life, your horse might initially be surprised to be asked to participate and therefore hesitate following your invitation. In that case, give him another chance by taking a deep breath and extending your invitation a second time. Once you offer your horse this choice on a daily basis he will learn that he has an opportunity to engage on his own.
Interactive Grooming Horses are curious by nature — they love to explore with their muzzle and lips. So, let’s turn grooming your horse into a fun activity for both of you by letting your horse choose his favorite grooming tool. If you have a large open grooming box or tote you can invite your horse to stick his muzzle right into the array of brushes, combs, and picks and allow him to “pick” the one you will start your grooming routine with. If he
selects the hoof pick, why not start right there? Does he pull out the conditioner? Let’s get to work on the tail first. Alternatively, you can offer your horse two different tools (i.e., the curry comb and a softer brush), and give him a chance to sniff both and see which one he finds more interesting. It’s so much fun watching horses sniff first one and then the other brush, only to come back to the first one and give it a bump of approval with the muzzle. If he picks the soft brush, then start grooming his face, or the underside of his neck. There will be time to get the curry comb circling to remove muddy spots, but following your horse’s choice of the soft brush will engage you in a dialogue that leads to deeper trust. If your horse is more reserved or unsure about this new approach, encourage him verbally by asking, “Which brush would you like us to start with?” Then pay attention to the slightest response, maybe he looks at one brush but not the other, or maybe he takes a deep breath as you offer one over the other. Again, one reason a horse would be tentative to respond is that he’s never been given the chance to share his opinion. Over time, if you show up and invite his input your horse will get more confident in offering a response and it will become part of your daily conversation.
leave. To me, that’s the one true sign of your horse making the choice to be with you. Acknowledge his trust in you and tell him, “Thank you for wanting to hang with me. I love it, and I’ll be back.” Then take deep breaths as you walk away. As you engage your horse more interactively in these mindful ways, you’ll see his personality emerge. Over time, the horse that had once the doubtful look of “Really? I get to choose?” written across his face will turn into a curious and engaged horse because you, his person, offers him choices and that means he’s heard and seen.
SMALL ANIMALS EXOTICS ACUPUNCTURE CHIROPRACTIC HOMEOPATHY PHYSICAL THERAPY
Nicole Birkholzer is an equine behavior and communication specialist, originally from Germany, who works with horses and riders across the globe. Nicole helps people create mindful connections with their horses by attuning to and communicating with horses in meaningful and effective ways. Her focus is to understand the logic behind horses’ behaviors and the wisdom in their expression. Interested in building a meaningful, mindful relationship with your horse, check out Nicole’s webinar series Horse Logic at mindful-connections.com/ online-learning. Nicole also offers private barn calls, phone consultations, and workshops.
Until Next Time These mindful interactions of engaging your horse in the decision-making process lead to a deeper connection with your horse. And, because you’ve created this deeper connection it’s not only important to be invited into your horse’s personal space, his bubble, it’s also important to be mindful to ease yourself out of the bubble when you bring your horse back to his paddock or pasture. As you get ready to remove his halter, take a deep breath and ask your horse, “Please lower your head so I can remove the halter,” and wait for him to follow your direction. Then, thank him for communicating with you and tell him you’ll be back soon. Your horse may not want you to leave his bubble and will follow you as you move toward the gate. Take this as a compliment. You’ve created the space for your horse to be in dialogue with you, and because of that you gave him the opportunity to be seen and heard. He has enjoyed that so much that he doesn’t want you to
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News in Our Community Welcome to our newest rescue Augustine, a one-yearold, intact sorrel, and may be a Quarter Horse. He was part of a group of horses a farm was trying to sell off at any price to anyone who would take them. All the other horses sold and Augustine was the only one left. He’s never been handled and is covered in filth. The very small pen he was in was filthy — all mud and manure. He’s scared but sweet — he hasn’t tried to bite or kick any of us. After a lot of patience we were able to put a halter on him. This poor guy is just a baby and needs a chance at life. Annie is an eight-yearold, registered Morgan. She’s a beautiful sorrel with a long flowing mane and forelock. Annie loves attention and is always the first one to greet you at the gate. She’s not an alpha mare. Annie takes a rider quite willingly at the walk, trot, and canter. She’s green and requires an experienced, patient handler to help her continue to flourish in her education. She needs a quiet barn with one or two other horses. Annie will not do well in an environment with a lot of commotion and several different handlers. She wants her very own special person. The Annual Shavings Sale will take place April 27 at Camp Marshall in Spencer. Shavings must be ordered in advance. The minimum order is 10 bales. The cost is $4.90 per plasticwrapped bale when you purchase 10 to 199, and $4.75 for 200 bales or more. Each bale is 3.25 cubic feet compressed and 7.5 cubic feet when loose. To learn more and place your order, contact 22
Sharon at (508) 892-0233 or sah@baystaterescue.org.
n Karin Orsi
Lucinda Green CrossCountry Master Class Symposium and Clinic Six-time winner of Badminton, world champion, Olympic silver medalist, and clinician Lucinda Green will be hold-
To learn more, visit appleknoll.com.
Symposium is designed as a showcase as well a great crosscountry demonstration,” says Adrienne. “It’s geared toward amateurs, horse enthusiasts, and Pony Clubbers by offering the opportunity to see professionals ride while also learning from and asking questions of Lucinda Green.” There will be raffles dur-
New IUD Safely Suppresses Estrus
Karin Orsi
Bay State Equine Rescue
Annie is available for adoption at Bay State Equine Rescue in Oakham.
ing a Cross-Country Master Class Symposium June 8 and master classes June 9–10 at Apple Knoll Farm in Millis. Lucinda is appreciated for her ability to impart confidence in both horse and rider at all levels — beginner novice through advanced, amateur or professional rider. “The June 8 symposium will be a day of four groups showcasing young horses through upper-level horses being ridden by our own United States Eventing Association Area 1 professionals,” says Apple Knoll Farm owner and head trainer Adrienne Iorio. Adrienne has competed through the international four-star level in eventing and is a USEA ICPcertified instructor. “The Cross-Country Master Class
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
ing lunch and a presentation by North Bridge Equine Clinic on topics relevant to the event horse, as well as a question-and-answer session with Lucinda. The symposium is followed by Lucinda’s two-day clinic, which steers horse and rider to the techniques of mastering cross-country with must-have skills for safety and success. The clinic is open to all levels of horse and rider — beginner novice through advanced. Each group of four to five riders will ride in two-hour sessions. June 9 will be Cross-Country Technique and June 10 will be On the Cross-Country Course. Auditors are welcome and stabling is available for those riding in the clinic.
Some methods of suppressing undesirable estrusrelated behaviors are more effective, practical, and safe than others. A University of Massachusetts researcher has devised a new, drug-free approach to manage performance mares and more. Carlos Gradil, DVM, PhD, Dipl ACT, professor in the school’s Department of Vet and Animal Sciences in Amherst, and adjunct associate professor at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, described the magnetic intrauterine device (IUD). Composed of three shatterproof magnetic beads, the device self-assembles into a ring upon insertion into the mare’s uterus. Vets can place it during any estrous stage, he said, and its benefits include being drug- and hormone-free, having a high retention rate, prolonging time between cycles, convenience of insertion and retrieval, not affecting fertility, easy visualization via ultrasound, and identification with a metal detector. In his study, Carlos inserted the IUD into 15 mares in estrus and 14 control mares — regardless of estrous cycle stage — and found that it extended the period between cycles by an average of 74 days. He removed the IUDs after three to 18 months using a retriever designed for the IUD. The mares had a 100 percent retention rate and 100 percent pregnancy rate afterward, he said.
Carlos said this IUD can potentially help curb undesirable estrous behavior in performance mares, synchronize cycles for embryo transfer, and control wild horse populations. He warned against using it in pregnant mares or those with existing uterine fluid or inflammation. The Horse
AMHA National Convention Honors Bay State Equestrians Lots of Morgan fun and excitement took place at the
2019 American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) Annual Convention, held February 7 to 9 in San Antonio, Texas. “I couldn’t be more pleased with the quality of this year’s convention,” says AMHA executive director Carrie J. Mortensen. “We had an amazing itinerary that didn’t disappoint anyone. The hotel was superb. The high level of participation by attendees at the many meetings and seminars was refreshing and a good indica-
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work of this chestnut gelding’s life. Beau is the perfect therapy horse with his steady gait, unflappable personality, and his absolute love of attention. He has thrived in his new job, never putting an ear down, and just relishing the love from both the children and adults he helps. Beau carries his riders safely, strengthening their bodies physically, and provides them with the joy and freedom that can be elusive in their everyday life. Clear Springs Beausoleil is the perfect example of the versatility and heart of the Morgan horse. From the show ring to the therapy arena, Beau has exemplified the best in the Morgan breed and is making a difference in the lives of so many people. He’s truly a gift. Photographer Andy Illes of Pembroke received the Mabel Owen Media award. Andy has an irrepressible spirit
that’s present in every photo she takes. Incorporating so much of her joyful outlook on life into pictures of Morgan horses, Andy’s photos are instantly identifiable for their capture of spontaneity and exuberance, the strong affection for the subject matter, and their ability to provide unique glimpses into the bond between human and horse. Andy frequently posts to social media, using her photos to bring Morgan fans together in their common love of the breed. She has also contributed unique photo essays to The Morgan Horse, the official breed journal. The Mabel Owen Media Award is named in remembrance of one of the seminal authors on the topic of Morgan horses. This award recognizes a person or group in the media with a documented body of work that has contributed in providing content, adding to the pub-
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lic’s ability to learn about, enjoy, and record for posterity activities involving the Morgan horse. An amazing Morgan, an amazing champion, and an amazing friend, AMHA honored Equinox Bossanova GCH by inducting him into its AMHA Show Horse Hall of Fame. Owned by Christine Nava Moulthrop of Timberhill Stable in Kingston, the 19year-old bay stallion wrote the history books at the New England Morgan Show, winning a record-setting five back-to-back Western Pleasure Championships. Shown throughout New England, Boss won dozens of blue ribbons, but it was the blue in Oklahoma that always eluded him. But Boss’s story has a fairytale ending. In 2017, at the last show of his career, he took home not one but two world championships in Western Pleasure Youth and Amateur with rider Olyvia O’Brien.
©Carole MacDonald
tor of the quality of offerings and the interest of the members to be truly involved.” Longtime Morgan supporters were recognized before the Morgan community on February 9 for their dedication to the breed at the annual awards banquet. Several horses were also recognized for their achievements. The AMHA Therapy Horse of the Year, Clear Springs Beausoleil, had a successful show career winning numerous Hunter Pleasure championships throughout the New England show circuit. In December 2017, believing Beau wasn’t ready for complete retirement, his owner, Marion Bengtson, reached out to Erin Van Steenburgh of Furnace Brook Farm in Marshfield to see if she would be interested in having Beau for her growing therapeutic riding program. As it turned out, this would become the most important
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For more than 40 years, Florence Scanlon of Whispering Hill Farm in Charlton has been breeding Morgan horses of distinction. Whispering Hill Morgans reflects the versatility and family-friendly traits that characterize the essence of the Morgan horse. AMHA inducted Florence into the AMHA Breeders’ Hall of Fame. From its earliest days, the building of Whispering Hill combined a strong New England work ethic with a family-centered hobby. That hobby would soon segue into the competitive arena as the Scanlon “kids” stepped into the spotlight with the family’s home-bred, -raised, and -trained Morgan horses. Through Florence’s careful study of Morgan pedigrees and identification of the characteristics that would come to define the Whispering Hill horses, the Scanlons’ Morgans became well known throughout the region as the tight-
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knit family watched their vision become a reality. Cherishing her incredible band of broodmares and always believing strongly in the importance of the bottom half of the pedigree, Florence carefully chose stallions that would augment the mares’ strongest qualities. In addition to being respected for her knowledge of bloodlines, Florence is admired for the love and kindness she showers upon each of the Morgans entrusted in her care. The Scanlons’ Morgans of Whispering Hill have found success in the show ring and on the trail, and, most importantly to their breeder, in the hearts of their owners. Hats off to Florence Scanlon for her lifetime commitment to this great breed and for her passion in preserving and elevating the standard of excellence in the Morgan horse.
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Partners 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 and space in the magazine for news, photos, and event listings.
raffle for a Betsey MacDonald painting valued at $1,000. The winning ticket for the painting, titled In the Field, will be drawn on July 13. Tickets go on sale May 1. To see the painting and pur-
Granby Regional Horse Council The GRHC has some wonderful events planned for the riding season. We begin in April with GRHC’s Trail Pace on Sunday, April 14, at
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Jenna McCarthy, Rebecca Maurice, Timothy Dali, Kate Cook, Beth Goudeau, and Daniel Dali at the 2018 BSTRA Spring Hunter Pace. The 2019 BSTRA Spring Hunter Pace will be May 19 in Oxford.
POP Photography
Spring has sprung and BSTRA is off to a fast start! Our annual Tack Sale is scheduled for April 6 at the VFW in Uxbridge from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Come on by and browse the tables for bargains. The balance of April is focused on the spring cleaning of our beloved trails. April 13 is the West Hill Dam Trail Work Day and Saturday, April 27, is a Park Serve Day at Upton State Forest. Sunday, April 28, is a second Park Serve Day at Douglas State Forest. Work days are a great way to give back to the trails and ensure they are ready for the riding season. It’s fun to catch up with friends while racking up volunteer hours. Two rides are scheduled in May. May 11 is the Patriotism Benefit Ride at Douglas State Forest. Sponsored by Azrael Acres, the ride is New England Horse and Trail affiliated. Riders and horses in attendance that are decked out in red, white, and blue will be entered in a drawing for a door prize. A cookout will follow the ride. There will also be a great raffle table. What a fun day to show off your patriotism! The BSTRA Spring Hunter Pace, sponsored by Tourbillon Trailer Sales, will be held on Sunday, May 19. This year’s pace will be in Oxford. We’re looking for volunteers to help with the set-up on Saturday, May 18. To learn more, visit bstra.org. BSTRA is also holding a
BSTRA Facebook page
Bay State Trail Riders Association
Riders at the 2018 HCRC TREC Clinic in Goshen. This year’s TREC Clinic will be July 20.
chase tickets, go to bstra.org/ support/raffle. Good luck to all participants! And lastly, a reminder that when you sign up for a BSTRA ride make sure to include your horse’s Coggins number and date on the registration form. If you’re a post-entry, bring a copy of the Coggins with you. In compliance with state regulations, BSTRA requires a current Coggins, dated 12 months or less from the ride date. This is to protect all horses. See you on the trails! 7 Annamaria Paul
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Dufresne Park in Granby. A trail pace is a competition where riders, either single or in teams of two or three, compete to match the time of the pace setter through a marked loop. The team or individual with the closest time to the pace setter wins. A meal will follow. Ribbons and prizes will be awarded. In May we will host a ride to Northfield Mountain in Northfield. There are some beautiful wide trails and open fields and it’s always a popular place to ride. A delicious meal will follow.
GRHC’s Open Show will be held on Sunday, June 23, at Dufresne Park. To learn more and get a class list, visit granbyregionalhorse.org. For the first time, GRHC will host a campout during the weekend of July 6 and 7 at the Wagon Wheel Camp Ground in Warwick. Attendees can choose to camp or just come for the day to ride. A meal will be served on one of those days. Please join us! Also new this year, we’re planning a ride in August with the Reddington Rock Riding Club in Stafford Springs, Connecticut. We will be riding from their club grounds into adjacent Shenipsit State Forest. We can’t wait to meet our new riding friends and explore this new site for us. At this point, we don’t have a definitive date but keep checking our website and Facebook pages for more information soon. This location is within an hour of Granby. Returning events this year are the popular GRHC Poker Ride at Dufresne Park on Sunday, September 8, and GRHC’s participation in the Belchertown Fair Parade later in September. We’re investigating some trails that the GRHC used to ride on many years ago for GRHC’s Fall Foliage Ride and Feast on Sunday, October 6. We have some work to do to make this happen. We wrap up the season on Sunday, October 20, with GRHC’s McDonald’s Nature Preserve Ride and Obstacle Course in Wilbraham. Ribbons and prizes will be awarded. New this year is the GRHC’s Trail Accumulation Points Program. We’ll give points at our rides and for non-GRHC rides for year-end awards. We hope to have all of our rides listed with New England Horse and Trail.
Join GRHC or renew your membership and let us know what events you’d like to see in the upcoming year. This year we are celebrating 25 years since the initial formation of the council. Come celebrate with us! The GRHC is an established, regional, nonprofit organization whose mission is to educate the public and equestrians about horse care and other issues related to horses, promote trail conservation, and host social and competitive events for equestrians of all ages. To join, visit granby regionalhorse.org, call Diane at (413) 527-9532, or email grhc@charter.net. 7 Diane Godek
Hampshire County Riding Club HCRC will kick off the riding season with the annual Pancake Breakfast Ride scheduled for Sunday, April 7, when we will ride from Worthington center, six miles
along country dirt roads, to the Red Bucket Sugar Shack. After a feast of everything maple, we’ll ride an alternate route back to our trailers. We appreciate the hospitality of the folks at the Sugar Shack in welcoming our riders and providing ties for our horses. The ride is open to HCRC members and their guests. Our May 15 meeting at 7 p.m., at Circle Double G Farm in Southampton, will feature a talk and liberty demonstration by Barb Macon of Sterling Rewards Horsemanship. Barb will follow up with a one-on-one clinic at our club grounds in September where participants will receive individual instruction on a topic of their choosing. If you’re interested in learning more about what she has to offer, please come to our meeting. The talk, demonstration, and September clinic are open to the public. We will be holding a Fun Day at our club grounds on
Saturday, May 18, featuring unique games on horseback along with the usual gymkhana events and an obstacle course challenge class. Whatever your age or ability, there will be something for you in divisions from Lead Line to Adult Open. On Sunday, June 9, we’ll be hosting a full day, two-part clinic at our club grounds with Peter and Philip Whitmore. In the morning, Philip will demonstrate and provide hands-on instruction in teaching your horse the skills required to be receptive to your aids on the ground. The afternoon portion will feature a versatility obstacle training session with Peter to work on the skills required to guide your horse through a variety of obstacles of varying difficulty. Our woodland obstacle course will be open for practice. Participation is open to the public. Additional clinics on
TREC and horsemanship, a number of trail rides, the Chesterfield July 4th Parade, camping weekends, and various other activities round out our schedule. To learn more and see our complete calendar of events visit hampshirecountyriding club.org and follow us on Facebook. 7 Diane Merritt
Hanover Hunt and Riding Club The HHRC at Briggs Stable has started off its 87th year in style. We had our wellattended annual banquet and awards ceremony in January. We had a Barbecue Ribs and Potluck supper at the clubhouse in February. Steve Moar contributed his delicious smoked ribs and, of course, everyone brought a dish. On a cold winter night, the dinner and the camaraderie were enjoyed by all. The weekend of March 9 and 10 the HHRC held the Annual Tack Sale. The club-
Emerald Hill Farm is a competitive jumper, hunter, and equitation show barn dedicated to providing the highest levels of care and training for sport horses and riders. Our facilities are maintained with precision and expertise to ensure the farm is as beautiful as it is functional. Emerald Hill Farm horses receive ample turnout, enjoy great footing, and superlative care. Training packages and private lessons are tailored to riders' needs and aim to prepare them for competition and personal excellence.
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awards were presented. The winning entry was submitted by Blue Ride Show Stables of Medfield. Beautiful awards and ribbons were given to highpoint winners in 70 divisions. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Sandy Crowe of Mendon. The High Point Hunter Rider was Frans Weterrings of Medfield who rides in the Walk Trot 10 and Under division, and the High Point Pleasure Horse Award went to Good Timing Tommy, ridden by Brianna Krause of Braintree in the Paint/Pinto Pleasure division. 7 Paulajean O’Neill
out the support of our many volunteers. Thank you! 7 John Dougherty
Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council On March 2, the MHC held its 58th annual High Score Awards Banquet at the
Hana Isihara
Horsepower event at one of the Mini Shows. Pictures were taken with veterans and horses and published in the club’s calendar. It was well received and will again be scheduled this year. We will again host the Massachusetts Special
The Briggs Stable Mini Shows begin June 19 at 6 p.m. and run through the summer, except the week of July 4.
April Renzella
house was full and spilled over onto the deck. Carol LaRose, who did a great job chairing the event, reported that more than 80 saddles were offered for sale along with most every conceivable thing you might need for your tack room. This year Briggs Stable will host three Hanson Riding Club shows and four Heritage Dressage Association shows. To learn more, visit briggsstable.com. The HHRC will host its 87th Annual Show on Saturday, June 8, at Briggs Stable in beautiful historic Hanover Center. The show is listed as an open show as it has classes for many breeds and disciplines in the ring and hunt seat classes on the grass hunt course. To see the class list, visit briggsstable.com. The Briggs Stable Mini Show Series begins with the first evening show on Wednesday June 19, at 6 p.m. The ten shows are held every Wednesday evening throughout the summer and it’s often noted that this is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening. This year there will be no show the week of July 4. Classes include Lead Line Six and Under and Seven and Over; Walk Trot 11 and Under Equitation and Pleasure; Walk Trot 12 to 17 Equitation and Pleasure; Walk Trot 18 and Over Equitation and Pleasure; Therapeutic Riding; Stock Seat Equitation 17 and Under; Western Pleasure; Hunt Seat 13 and Under Equitation and Hunt Seat 14 to 17 Equitation; Open Equitation 18 and Over; English Pleasure Junior, Youth, and Adult; Open Jumping 18" to 3'; and a games class. Exhibitors and horse owners are required to be members of the HHRC to be eligible for year-end awards. Last year the Corvette Club held a Horses to
Jill Weinstein, trainer at Blue Ride Show Stables in Wrentham, with student Frans Weterrings accepting the Dorothy Connors Memorial Trophy High Point Hunter Rider Award at the Annual MHC High Score Awards Banquet on March 2 from MHC vice president Felicia Knowles.
Olympics Equine competition in September. The Plymouth County 4-H show will be held in October. The Annual Lobster Feed and Brunch Rides will be in the fall line-up. The HHRC derives most of its operating income from the food booth at shows, and with this we’re able to maintain the clubhouse and support club activities and selected charities. To join, visit briggsstable.com. As always, our events would not be possible with-
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Doubletree Hilton in Milford. The festive event was attended by 140 guests who enjoyed the social hour followed by a delicious buffet dinner. Children of all ages were entertained by a balloon artist who traveled between tables creating various animals and headgear from balloons. After the award presentations, music and dancing kept the evening lively. For this year’s banquet stables and teams were invited to create table centerpieces to decorate the tables. The entries were judged and
Massachusetts Quarter Horse Association The MQHA recently wrapped up its 2018 season with a wonderful banquet held at the Sturbridge Host Hotel in Sturbridge. We’re pleased to announce that we awarded three $500 scholarships to three wonderful young ladies in good standing with the MQHA. Thanks also to the Amanda Putney Memorial Fund for granting an additional $500 scholarship to a fourth member. On February 2, the groundhog predicted an early spring, so we hope he’s correct. Nonetheless, we’ve an incredible show season lining up for everyone. New this year will be the addition of Rookie classes to our Novice Show , April 12–14, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. Rookie classes are a great start for participants and horses new to the show circuit. The MQHA Annual Spring Show, May 15–19, will also be in West Springfield and will have six judges making this a worthwhile trip to gain points. If you’re not a show enthusiast, we also offer the MQHA Ride Program. Special awards are given when milestones are reached
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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T-shirt, and roughed-up boots. Radiating an aura of hustle, anyone can easily see this is a passionate individual who won’t hesitate to roll up
series and my thought with the NEECA series was to have a level playing field,” says Frank. “I presented my ideas to the NEECA board
MQHA Facebook page
after paying a small, onetime fee and remaining in good standing with the club. All you need to do is record the hours you spend riding your horse, and it does not have to be a Quarter Horse! Good luck to our novice competitors as they make their way to the Nutrena East Novice Championships May 1–5 in Wilmington, Ohio. To learn more, visit MassQHA.com and our Facebook page. Good Strides! 7 Lori Mahassel
New England Equestrian Center of Athol When I first met Frank Whitney five years ago, I cordially referred to him as the “NEECA Gymkhana guy.” Currently an Athol resident, Frank grew up at Quim-Lou riding stables (named after his parents Quimby and Louise), in Phillipston,. He’s typically seen at the equestrian park wearing his Wrangler jeans, a NEECA
The MQHA Novice Show will be April 12–14, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. Photo is from last year’s Novice Show.
his sleeves to make something happen. And Frank has done just that with the NEECA Gymkhana series he created and has run annually for NEECA since 2014. “The Pioneer Valley Horse Association (PVHA) used to run a gymkhana
and was asked if I would be interested in setting it up. After some research of other associations, I came up with what I felt was a fair series that focused on safety, fun, and affordability.” “Gymkhana is basically timed games on horseback,”
says Frank. “Our gymkhanas are comprised of eight games per competition. Other than the Lead Line division, our divisions are based on qualifying times. We also welcome all ability levels.” “We have a great group of people that come to the events including first timers,” says Frank. “We’ve grown so much over the past five years; we’re now a buckle series, and year-end champions are awarded buckles. Hearing others spread the word about how fun and friendly everyone is at our gymkhanas proves our success.” “The support of the competitors, volunteers, and the NEECA board make it all work,” says Frank. “Elwin Bacon, NEECA’s founding father, was our biggest supporter early on. The current gymkhana committee consists of myself, Mallory Ellis, and Ann Degnan who both do so much in preparation for the events. The family of
Briggs Stable
87 Annual th
June Show Saturday • June 8
Outside Course Warm-ups 6:30 to 8 A .M. Trailer Parking Starts at 6 A .M.
2'9" 2'6" & rby r De Hunte ions! Divis
Wednesday evenings starting at 6 P.M. June 19 to August 28 All members of the Hanover Hunt & Riding Club are eligible for year-end awards.
Lead Line . Therapeutic . Walk Trot . Games Jumping . Equitation . Pleasure 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. 30
Mini Shows
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Visit Briggs Tack Shop, a full service shop, while at the show!
to bring their horse, donkey, mini, or mule and give it a try,” says Frank. To learn more, visit neeca.org or reach out to Frank at freeway3289@gmail.com or (978) 833-2634 (voice/text). 7 Anne Marie Zukowski
lots of beautiful awards and a great bunch of prizes for our raffle. Everyone had a lovely time. We elected the following new board members: Paige Benson, Jackie Zajakowski, Stephanie Brightman, Barbara Young,
Bradley Fowler
Michelle and Gerald Leclair and Quimby Whitney, Jr. have been huge supporters along the way. We have many volunteers that help. I wish I could list them all.” “The initial patterns were borrowed from organizations such as the California Gymkhana Association, the former PVHA, and utilizing web searches,” says Frank. “We’ve also had people give us patterns and ideas.” Want to compete at a gymkhana? NEECA members pay $40 per competition and nonmembers pay $45. “We encourage all riders (and drivers) to compete,” says Frank. “We range from the fast, experienced riders to those who are new and are led around the course. We would rather have a slow, cautious person who’s working on trust or bonding with a horse come and enjoy the experience than for someone to think they have to be fast and miss out on all of it.” “I encourage everyone
Frank Whitney and a youth rider at one of NEECA’s Gymkhanas in 2018. This year’s Gymkhana Series begins April 14 with seven competitions for the series.
North Shore Horsemen’s Association The NSHA held its annual banquet on January 19 and, despite the snow, it was a wonderful evening. We had
Annual Combined Test April 13
Introductory, Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, & Preliminary
and Michael Kehough. Welcome to all. The prize list for the 2019 NSHA Pleasure Shows is complete and on our Facebook page. We’re now
affiliated with the New England Horsemen’s Council (NEHC) and the Massachusetts Horse Council, and we’ll be offering the NEHC Western Seat Medal, NEHC Hunter Pleasure Equitation Medal, and the NEHC Saddle Seat Pleasure Equitation Medal. We’ve added lots of new classes for everyone. All ages of the Walk Trot divisions have lots of new classes as those are our biggest divisions. We’ve also added a Pony Pleasure Driving for all ages; Minis are allowed and encouraged to compete. Morgan Hunter Pleasure is also back on the schedule. The location for the shows is Bob-Lyn Stables in Amesbury. We hope more people will attend and we welcome any suggestions you may have. 7 Joann Hamson
Westfield Riding Club This year, the WRC will celebrate 80 years. The club will
Schooling Events May 18 . July 6 . September 21
Introductory, Beginner Novice, Novice, & Training
Using the new 2019 dressage tests. All levels judged, scored, and timed as a recognized event. Relaxed, friendly, and well run with quality jumps and courses in an outdoor stadium. Great prizes! For more information contact:
Mina Payne at mpayne@sbschool.org or (413) 773-8333 574 Bernardston Road, Greenfield, Mass. . sbschool.org Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
31
host two 4-H and Open Shows, one on Sunday, June 9, and the second show on Sunday, September 8, as well as its annual Games Day on Saturday, August 10. Shows begin at 8:30 a.m. at the club grounds located at 29 Fowler Road in Westfield. To celebrate its 80th anniversary, the shows will include several new classes including an Advanced Walk/Trot division, jackpot classes, and championships. Returning favorites include 4-H, driving, horse-in-hand classes, and the Open Walk/Trot championship. WRC shows offer more than 70 classes. Shows are approved by the Open Horse Show Association, the American Paint Horse Association, and the Pinto Horse Association of America. The WRC is a nonprofit organization founded on the eve of World War II in 1939 by a group of horse enthusi-
asts whose intent was “fostering interest in the use, care, breeding, and protection of horses.”
Youth riders, mom Alicia Spaulding, and her horse Mark Him Dry Lynx. Alicia and her kids enjoyed a family day in the saddle at the 2018 WRC Fall 4-H and Open Show. WRC will again be offering two 4-H and Open Shows in 2019.
The club organizes educational activities, programs, shows, trail rides, and other events to enhance the under-
Horse Show Series
May 11
Peter Whitmore Versatility Clinic May 19 Cardinal Ridge Equestrian Center 468 Old Coldbrook Road, Barre
Fall Trail Ride Weekend
June 23 Sponsored by Central New England Equine Rescue
July 14 Sponsored by New England Equestrian Center of Athol
August 4 Barre Riding & Driving Club Scholarship Show
October 12 &13 me a Beco and ber mem iscounts ive d ! rece l events l on a
August 25 Sponsored by Worcester County 4-H
September 15 Sponsored by Barre Riding & Driving Club
Show Banquet in November
All events at Felton Field, Barre, Mass. unless otherwise noted. To learn more, see the full calendar, and find more events, visit
BarreRidingDrivingClub.com! 32
about trail rides, judging, onsite photography, mobile tack store, and more, find us on Facebook. 7 Sarah Bonini
West Newbury Riding and Driving Club
Barre Riding & Driving Club 2019 Calendar Spring Trail Ride
standing of correct horse management and riding, as well as appreciation of the horse, with particular
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
emphasis on youth participation at all levels. For the latest news, forms, and information
The WNRDC is celebrating Newbury’s bicentennial this year, as well as 100 years as a riding club and 31 years as the sponsors and hosts of the Pipestave Hill Horse Trials. We’ve added five new crosscountry jumps, three imaginative and inviting new fences for stadium jumping, and classes for many levels of dressage and combined training. This year we’ll be augmenting our educational, social, and mounted events with a Memorial Day Parade drill team, equine-related activities, and information at various town events. Many members, riders, and parents assist in the maintenance of our unique equine infrastructure and
Area. Businesses can also help by sponsoring our programs and improvements. Members will receive club emails promoting upcoming events such as the annual
trail system. If you have enjoyed wading your horse in Mill Pond, cantering across the back field, popping over inviting fences, or watching the talented riders
Tack Shop & Consignment Area
Sophiea Bitel
Dublin . Tuff Rider . Saxon . Noble Outfitters . Horze . Shires . Ariat Weatherbeeta . Tough 1 . Professional’s Choice . Roma . Absorbine
WNRDC riders in the West Newbury Memorial Day Parade.
and their intrepid steeds, we invite your membership and stewardship. The affordable annual or five-year membership helps in further enhancing the riding rings, jumps, and trails on Pipestave, around Mill Pond, the Dunn Fields and Riverbend Conservation
WNRDC Potluck Hoedown on April 13 in the 1910 Building Annex, winter education talks, drill team and parade practice, vaccination clinics, and more. To learn more, visit wnrdc.org and find us on Facebook. 7 Deb Hamilton
Barn Supplies . 1st & 2nd Cut Hay Paper-bagged Shavings . Grain Livestock . Poultry . Wild Bird Seed Dog, Cat, Small Animal, and Reptile Pickup and Delivery!
BLUE RIDER STABLES
WHERE HAPPY HORSES HELP MAKE HAPPY HUMANS
Upcoming Events School Vacation Program April 15 - 19 Neighmaste Yoga Workshop Yoga and Horses April 28
Alexander Technique and Horses May 5 Blue Rider HippityHop Circus June 1 Two-Day Animal Communications Workshop with Dawn Allen June 8 & 9 Summer Camp Sessions June 17 - August 23 Blue Rider Fun Day August 24
15 Farm Lane, South Egremont, Mass. 413.528.5299 info@bluerider.org
bluerider.org
: blueriderorg
Need your trailer serviced? Now scheduling appointments for full service trailer repairs.
We come to you! We service your trailer at your farm or home. We also service tractors, ATVS, gators, and small engines. We can help you sell your trailer and we’ll help you buy the right trailer for your needs!
Northborough, Mass. whitehorserepairandsales@gmail.com (508) 641-9212 Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
33
events Massachusetts
April
6 WOOLY HORSE SHOW, Crimson Acres, Orange. crimsonacres.org.
13 NEECA CLEAN UP DAY, Athol. neeca.org.
6 BSTRA TACK SALE, Uxbridge VFW. bstra.org.
13 VINCENT FLORES DRESSAGE CLINIC, Barre. (978) 355-8306.
6 – 7 MICHAEL PAGE JUMPING CLINIC, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
13 BRDC VACCINATION CLINIC, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
7 TWO PHASE, Millis, appleknoll.com.
13 – 14 KIM SEVERSON CLINIC, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.
14 POKER RUN, Millis. appleknoll.com.
7 HCRC RED BUCKET PANCAKE RIDE, Worthington. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 12 – 14 MASSQHA NOVICE AND OPEN SHOW, West Springfield. massqha.com. 13 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 13 BSTRA WEST HILL DAM TRAIL WORK, Uxbridge. bstra.org. 13 COMBINED TEST, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.
14 TACK SALE, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org. 14 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com. 14 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
13 – 14 LUCILE BUMP CENTERED RIDING CLINIC, WEST TISBURY. (508) 645-3723. 14 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. wnepha.com. 14 GRHC TRAIL PACE, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org. 14 SPRING FUN SHOW, Camp Marshall Equestrian Center, Spencer. campmarshall.net. 14 NEECA GYMKHANA SERIES, Athol. neeca.org.
Keith Angstadt
14 OPEN SHOW, Haskins Farm, Berkley. sunflowermeadowsequestrian.weebly.com. 14 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com. 14 HUNTER/EQUITATION SHOW, Evenstride Ltd. Byfield. evenstrideltd.com. 14 OPEN DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com. 14 – 17 MIGUEL ANACORETA SOARES CLASSICAL DRESSAGE CLINIC, Millis. appleknoll.com. ew ting N Accep rses o H ts & Studen ining for Tra ent g Stud Workin on Positi
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 • 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 34
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Merrimack Valley Dressage Shows April 28 - Ride Review Ride May 5 . July 7 . August 18
Intro to 4th and above; fabulous footing and judges.
Offering USEA event tests and western dressage tests! High-score awards; discount for Pony Club.
15 – 20 KIDS’ WEEKSmartpak Retail Store, Natick. smartpak.com/retailstore.
27 SOUTHEAST HUNTER SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. southeasthunter.com.
28 CMHSS CAMP MARSHALL EQUESTRIAN TEAM OPEN SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net.
19 ERIC HORGAN CLINIC, Full Circle Stables, Sherborn. shasanoglu@icloud.com.
27 GWYNETH MCPHERSON DRESSAGE CLINIC, RER Ponies, Hatfield. rerponies.com.
28 CCDS SPRING DRIVING CLINIC, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. colonialcarriage.org.
20 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.
27 NEECA POKER RUN, Athol. neeca.org.
28 RIDE-REVIEW-RIDE DRESSAGE SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008.
27 FAMILY WEEKEND HORSE SHOW, StoneleighBurnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.
28 DRESSAGE SHOW, Hatfield. rerponies.com.
27 SPIRIT TRAIL CHALLENGE RIDE, Glencroft Farm, Southampton. glencroftfarm.com.
28 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Evenstride Farm, Byfield. northshorehorsemens.org.
27 BSTRA PARK SERVE DAY, Upton. bstra.org.
28 BSTRA PARK SERVE DAY, Douglas. bstra.org.
27 – 28 CRDA ADULT DRESSAGE CAMP, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.
28 WRC TRAIL RIDE, Littleville Reservoir, Huntington. westfieldridingclub.org.
27 – 28 VERA KESSELS CLINIC, Stony Brook Farm, Norfolk. jodipearsonkeating.com.
28 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.
27 – 28 SPRING SALE, 15 percent off. Smartpak Retail Store, Natick. smartpak.com/retailstore.
28 SPRING USEF ONE-DAY SHOW, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
20 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.
27 – 28 STATE 4-H ROUNDUP, hippology and horse bowl at Wheaton College, Norton; horse judging at Elmwood Acres, Mansfield, mass4h.org.
28 NEIGHMASTE YOGA ON HORSE WORKSHOP, South Egremont. bluerider.org.
21 MHC SHOW, Herring Brook Farm, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com.
28 OPEN HOUSE, Berkshire Equestrian Center, Richmond. cathydrumm.com.
27 EQUINE EXPO AND PARAPHERNALIA SALE, Topsfield. (978) 768-6275 or kljoreo@aol.com.
28 MHC SHOW, Century Mill Stables, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.
20 VINCENT FLORES DRESSAGE CLINIC, Barre. (978) 355-8306. 20 NEECA LISE KRIEGER SADDLE FIT SEMINAR, Athol. neeca.org. 20 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com. 20 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 20 NEHC MHC HUNTER SHOW, Cornerstone Farm, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com. 20 COMBINED TEST WITH CROSS-COUNTRY SCHOOLING, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
Combined Test April 7 Poker Run April 14 Miguel Anacoreta Soares Classical Dressage Clinic April 14 to 17
May
1 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com. 4 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.
25 Forest Lane, Millis, MA ~ (508) 376-2564
Succeed Professional Master Class Symposium with Lucinda Green Presented by North Bridge Equine
June 8 - Learn by watching USEA Area 1 professionals ride and ask Lucinda questions. June 9 & 10 - Succeed Master Classes with Lucinda
North Bridge Equine Jumper Challenge Series June 12, 19, and 26 July 10, 17, 24, and 31 August 7, 14, 21, and 28 September 4 and 11 Finale
USEA Area I Schooling Horse Trials Championships August 18
Halloween Hunter Pace October 27
Prize lists and entry forms at:
appleknoll.com. Check the website often as new events are added!
© Aryta Anny Photography
Lucky Finn Photography
Training with Adrienne Iorio Three-Day Eventing Competitor and Trainer . Millis, Mass. & Winter Training in Aiken, South Carolina Show Jumps For Sale . Horses and Ponies For Sale/Lease
Rent our facilities for horse shows, clinics, and other equine activities. Our cross-country course is open for schooling by appointment, weather permitting. Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
35
4 BSTRA HODGES DAM TRAIL WORK DAY, Oxford. bstra.org.
5 CCEA JUDGED SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com.
11 BSTRA PATRIOTISM BENEFIT RIDE, Douglas. bstra.org.
4 OPEN SHOW, Orange. crimsonacres.org.
5 SPRING TWO-PHASE, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.
11 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College , South Hadley. mhcriding.com.
5 SPRING JUMPER SHOW, JH Eventing, Sutton. (978) 875-2036 or jjlhalliday@comcast.net.
11 HUNTER SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com.
4 NEECA TRAILER TUNE-UP CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org. 4 SPRING HORSE-MIND-SHIP FESTIVAL, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.
5 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Independence Stable, Belchertown.independencestablellc.com.
4 GWYNETH MCPHERSON DRESSAGE CLINIC, RER Ponies, Hatfield. rerponies.com. 4 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com. 4 – 5 SNECDA ARENA DRIVING TRIAL, Blackbridge Farm, Southbridge. snecda.org.
5 CRDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org. 5 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org. 5 ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE AND HORSES WORKSHOP, South Egremont. bluerider.org.
4 – 5 SUZY STAFFORD DRIVING CLINIC, Sunset Ridge Farm, Southwick. nefriesians.org. 5 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst. wnepha.com.
5 SPRING USEF ONE-DAY SHOW, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com. 8 – 10 FIELDSTONE SPRING FESTIVAL, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
11 TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Aquila Farm, Hamilton. (978) 501-2649. 11 BRDC SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 11 NEECA TRAILER SAFETY AND SKILLS CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org. 11 GRANBY SADDLE CLUB SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. luckyhorsefarm.com. 11 – 12 ART AND EQUINE RETREAT, North Brookfield. fdhorsemanship.com. 12 TANHEATH HUNT SPRING HUNTER PACE, Douglas State Forest. tanheathhunt.com.
5 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008.
10 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org
12 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. heritagefarmeasthampton.com.
5 NEECA TRAILER TUNE-UP CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.
10 – 12 NHHJA SPRING SHOW, Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. nhhja.com.
12 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Palmer River Equestrian Center, Rehoboth. (508) 252-6347.
5 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
10 – 12 AHCC ARABIAN SHOW, West Springfield. ahcofct.org.
12 SPRING DRESSAGE BENEFIT, Bear Spot Farm, Concord. bearspotfarm.com.
Hunter Shows Jumper Shows Games Nights NEHC Rated “C”, MHC Rated “C” Equitation . Medals . Short Stirrup . Long Stirrup Elementary Hunter . Children’s/Adult Special Hunter Pre-Children’s/Adult Hunter . Walk Trot . Lead Line
Walk Trot Classes . Walk Trot Canter Classes . Trot Poles 18", 2', 2'3", 2'6", 2'9", 3' Classes: Power and Speed, Speed & Timed First Jump Off Warm-up starts at 4 p.m., Show starts at 5 p.m.
May 19 . June 30
July 12 . July 26 . August 16
Barrels, Arena Race, Pole Bending, and many more! Warm-up starts at 2 p.m., Games start at 3 p.m.
April 20 . May 5 . June 9 . July 21 August 11 . September 8 . October 6 October 27 (Halloween theme!)
Bethani Chadbourne Photography
July 14 . August 18
Boarding . Lessons . Shows . Games . IEA Teams 111 George Hill Road, Grafton, Massachusetts (508) 243-8044 . hillside-meadows.com 36
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
New England Equestrian Center of Athol’s
Upcoming Events
Spring Work Day
April 13, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pam at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com
Gymkhana Series
April 14 . May 19 . June 23 . July 20 Aug. 17 . Sept. 15 . Oct. 13 Lead Line to All-Out Competitors Frank at (978) 833-2634
Lise Krieger Saddle Fitting Demo
April 20 Pam at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com
Poker Run
April 27 Frank at (978) 833-2634 freeway3289@gmail.com
Two Trailer Tune-Up Clinics May 4 & 5 Pam at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com
Trailer Safety/Skills Clinic May 11 Caroline at (978) 249-2813
Lake Dennison Trail Ride May 18 Margo at westwindfm@aol.com
Susan Harris Clinic
May 18 & 19 Windswept Farm, Petersham Caroline at (978) 249-2813
Equestrian Showcase
June 8 Versatility Challenge, Step-up Challenge, Drill Team Competition, Tack & Collectible Auction, Tack, Equipment & Food Vendors. Peter at (978) 652-2231
MIG Equine
Karen Morang Photography
MIG Equine
All take place at the Equestrian Center unless otherwise noted.
Stephanie Hayes Working Equitation Clinic
Libby Lyman Confidence Course Ride/Review/Ride
BSTRA/NEECA Joint Benefit Pleasure Ride
Campout & Versatility
June 29 Caroline at (978) 249-2813
July 13 at Felton Field, Barre Lynn at lynnparesky@aol.com Trail questions Margo at westwindfm@aol.com
Open Horse Show
August 10 Caroline at (978) 249-2813
September 6 - 8 Margo at westwindfm@aol.com
Cathy Drumm Clinic
September 7 Pam at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com
Elwin Bacon Fun Day
July 14 Felton Field, Barre Peter at (978) 652-2231
October 19 Frank at (978) 833-2634
Fall Social
Youth Fun Day
August 10 Pam at pamdeg2002@yahoo.com
November 2 Ellinwood Country Club, Athol Althea at (617) 678-9300
Become a member and be part of something special for generations to come!
Protecting and preserving land for equestrian interests and hosting events for the enjoyment and education of horse lovers.
New England Equestrian Center, 802 New Sherborn Road, Athol
Go to neeca.org for all the details!
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
37
12 SSHC SHOW, Raynham. sshconline.com. 15 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
19 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.
19 NEHC MHC HUNTER SHOW, Cornerstone Farm, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.
19 OPEN SHOW, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com.
15 HCRC BARBARA MACON LIBERTY DEMONSTRATION, Circle Double G Farm, Southampton. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
19 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
15 – 19 MASSQHA SPRING SHOW, West Springfield. massqha.com.
19 THREE-PHASE SCHOOLING SHOW, Hazel Grove Park, Groton. grotonponyclub.org.
18 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.
19 BSTRA HUNTER PACE, Oxford. bstra.org.
18 SCHOOLING EVENT I, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org.
19 GRHC SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Northfield Mountain. granbyregionalhorse.org.
18 HCRC FUN DAY, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
19 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, SJH at Berkshire Equestrian Center, Richmond. wnepha.com.
18 NEECA SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Lake Dennison, Winchendon. neeca.org.
19 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.
18 – 19 NEECA SUSAN HARRIS CENTERED RIDING CLINIC, Petersham. neeca.org. 18 – 19 DANIEL STEWART CLINIC, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 18 – 19 NEPHA SWING INTO SPRING SHOW, Northampton. nepinto.com. 18 – 19 WILL COLEMAN CLINIC, Westborough. emeraldisleseventing.com.
38
19 BRDC PETER WHITMORE VERSATILITY CLINIC, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
19 MYOPIA HUNT CLUB SPRING HUNTER PACE, South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org. 19 OPEN SHOW, Haskins Farm, Berkley. sunflowermeadowsequestrian.weebly.com. 22 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com. 22 – 25 GREATER BOSTON CHARITY HORSE SHOW, West Springfield. greaterbostoncharityhorseshow.com. 24 – 26 HAWLEY BENNETT CLINIC, True North Farm, Harwich. truenortheventing.com. 25 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.
19 NEHC “C” RATED, MHC “C” RATED SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 19 CMHSS TWO TOWN TROTTERS 4-H CLUB OPEN SHOW, Spencer. cmhss.net. 19 SOUTH COAST SERIES HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com. 19 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. xenophonshows@gmail.com.
25 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, JW Equestrian at South Hadley. wnepha.com. 25 TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com. 25 – 26 109TH NORFOLK HUNT SHOW, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com. 25 – 27 BSTRA MEMORIAL DAY CAMPOUT, Carver. bstra.org.
26 TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Red Mare Farm, Hatfield. redmarefarm.com.
1 SOUTHEAST HUNTER SHOW, Saddle Rowe, Medway. southeasthunter.com.
6 – 9 CONNECTICUT MORGAN AND OPEN SHOW, Northampton. ctmorgans.org.
26 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.
1 NEDA SPRING DRESSAGE COMPETITION I, Marshfield. neda.org.
8 NEECA EQUESTRIAN SHOWCASE, Athol. neeca.org.
26 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Riverbank Farm, Amherst. wnepha.com.
2 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Independence Stable, Belchertown.independencestablellc.com.
8 SPRING SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.
26 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
2 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
8 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.
26 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish State Forest, Carver. hansonridingclub.org.
2 NEDA SPRING DRESSAGE COMPETITION II, Marshfield. neda.org.
8 HHRC JUNE SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
26 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Evenstride Farm, Byfield. northshorehorsemens.org.
2 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Century Mill Stables, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.
26 NEMHS MINIATURE HORSE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. nemhs.org.
2 MHC, NEHC, DOWNEAST MEDAL SHOW, Back Bay Farm, Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.
30 — 31 TOM CURTIN CLINIC, Clover Creek Farm, Rochester. drass@hotmail.com.
2 CRDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.
8 LUCINDA GREEN MASTER CLASS SYMPOSIUM, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 8 – 9 ANIMAL COMMUNICATION DAWN ALLEN WORKSHOP, S. Egremont. bluerider.org. 9 DRESSAGE SHOW, Hatfield. rerponies.com.
June
1 NEECA SPRING TRAIL RIDE, Lake Dennison Recreation Area, Winchendon. neeca.org. 1 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 1 OPEN SHOW, Orange. crimsonacres.org. 1 BLUE RIDER HIPPITYHOP CIRCUS, South Egremont. bluerider.org.
9 NEHC MHC HUNTER SHOW, Cornerstone Farm, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.
2 SPRING USEF ONE-DAY SHOW, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
9 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
2 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com.
9 OPEN SHOW, Haskins Farm, Berkley. sunflowermeadowsequestrian.weebly.com.
2 – 3 ALLISON SPRINGER CLINIC, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com.
9 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
5 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
9 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.
Turn-key Equestrian Property
s sion ! Divi one very E r o f -end Year s! rd Awa
Open Schooling Show Series
April 14 - judge Jessica Roberts May 19 - judge Jill Swift June 9 - judge Michelle Hunting July 21 - judge June Gillis-Ahern Aug. 25 - judge Carly Fisher Sept. 22 - judge Jessica Roberts Oct. 20 - judge Carly Fisher
PITTSFIELD This boarding/showing/training facility is turn-key and ready to start your own business. Thirty-three stalls, indoor arena with GGT footing, outdoor riding ring, heated tack room, all weather footing in three of the paddocks, plus electric and water in each barn. Well maintained and has operated for years as a full-service facility with horse shows. Centrally located between HITS Saugerties, Saratoga, Vermont, and Lake Placid. On a main road with easy access for trailers to get in and out. House is a timber frame style split level built in 1995 with three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. $749,999.
Kolleen Schmitt, Realtor . 413.446.5833 berkshirelegacygroup.com Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
39
WNEPHA JOIN US! The Western New England chapter of the Professional Horsemen’s Association of America has a full schedule of shows planned for 2019!
HUNTER/JUMPER EQUITATION SHOWS May 5 May 12 May 19 May 25 May 26 June 2 June 9
Muddy Brook Farm White Horse Hill SJH Equestrian JW Equestrian at Mt. Holyoke Riverbank Farm Harmony Hill Farm Bellwether Stables
9 ADULT DRESSAGE SCRIMMAGE, Baile HIll Farm, Sutton. (978) 875-2036.
16 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.
9 WRC SPRING OPEN AND 4-H SHOW, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.
16 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
9 HCRC OBSTACLES AND TRICK TRAINING CLINIC, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
19 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
9 SUMMER CLASSIC, Groton House Farm, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com.
19 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
9 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bellwether Stables, Richmond. wnepha.com.
19 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
9 HRC TRAIL RIDE, Myles Standish State Forest, Carver. hansonridingclub.org.
21 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org. 9 USEF SHOW, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com. 22 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 9 SPRING USEF ONE-DAY SHOW, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com. 9 – 10 LUCINDA GREEN MASTER CLASSES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 12 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com. 12 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 13 – 15 SUMMER KICK OFF OPEN SHOW, Northampton. vtspringclassic@aol.com.
DRESSAGE SHOWS
19 – 23 PLYMOUTH ROCK HUNTER JUMPER CLASSIC, Halifax. fieldstoneshowpark.com.
13 – 16 CQHA CLASSIC, West Springfield. cqha.com.
22 WESTERN DRESSAGE AND WORKING EQUITATION OBSTACLE SERIES, Windy Woods Stable, Westfield. cathydrumm.com. 22 NSHA PLEASURE SHOW, Bob-Lyn Stables, Amesbury. northshorehorsemens.org. 22 – 23 NEMHS MINIATURE HORSE SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. nemhs.org. 23 GRHC OPEN SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org. 23 SUMMER SCHOOLING EVENT I, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com.
English and Western Tests
Apr. 14 Apr. 21 May 19 June 9
Mount Holyoke College Heritage Farm Stockade Emerald Glen
15 SUNRISE PLEASURE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.
23 OPEN SHOW ,Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 23 NEECA GYMKHANA, Athol. neeca.org.
15 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Rozena’s Field, Raynham. capecodhunter.com. 15 HCRC MEMBERS TRAIL RIDE, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 15 – 16 BUCK DAVIDSON CLINIC, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 15 – 16 HCRC CAMPOUT WEEKEND, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 16 HUNTER SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 16 HORSE TRIALS AND DRESSAGE SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 16 WRC TRAIL RIDE, Otis Sate Forest. westfieldridingclub.org.
23 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org. 23 HCRC CHESTERFIELD GORGE RIDE, Chesterfield. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 23 BSTRA FERGUS SCAVENGER HUNT RIDE, Carver. bstra.org. 23 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 23 BRDC CNEER OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 23 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. xenophonshows@gmail.com. 23 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Grindstone Mountain Farm, Southampton. wnepha.com.
16 SSHC SHOW, Raynham. sshconeline.org.
Year-end awards in many divisions. Full schedule can be found at
WNEPHA.com An organization for horsemen, by horsemen.
40
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
16 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 16 CMHSS GOLD NUGGET OPEN SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net. 16 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
26 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 26 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 26 – 27 SUMMER DRESSAGE SHOW, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.
27 – 30 PATRIOT REINING CLASSIC, Northampton. patriotreining.com. 28 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com. 28 – 30 USEF USEA HORSE TRIALS, Groton House Farm, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com.
Myopia Hunt Join us in 2019 for fox hunting and much more! Spring Roading begins April 27
29 VERA KESSELS CLINIC, Stony Brook Farm, Norfolk. jodipearsonkeating.com.
Spring Hunter Pace ~ May 19
29 MHC SHOW, Southampton. (413) 636-2326.
Casual Summer Hound Exercises June - August
29 NEECA STEPHANIE HAYES WORKING EQUITATION CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org. 30 CCEA JUDGED SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com. 30 SOUTH COAST SERIES HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.
119th Myopia Horse Show August 30, 31, and September 1 Fall Hunt Season begins September 28 N.E. Hunter Trials ~ October 20 Fall Hunter Pace ~ November 3
Myopia has many opportunities to participate, watch, and volunteer. For more information, please visit
www.myopiahunt.org. We invite you to join us as we preserve the future through the traditions of the past.
30 NEHC “C” RATED, MHC “C” RATED SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 30 SUMMER SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.
© Eric Schneider
30 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown. wnepha.com. 30 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 30 BSTRA POKER RUN, Mendon. bstra.org.
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
41
July
3 – 7 NHHJ SUMMER SHOW, Fieldstone, Halifax. nhhja.com. 4 MARION 4 OF JULY SHOW, Washburn Memorial Park, Marion. marionhorseshow.com. TH
4 – 7 BSTRA FOURTH OF JULY CAMPOUT, Douglas. bstra.org. 5 – 7 REGIONAL 4-H SHOW, Northampton. kellimarie43@yahoo.com. 6 SCHOOLING EVENT II, Stoneleigh-Burnham School, Greenfield. sbschool.org. 6 – 7 GRHC CAMP OUT, Wagon Wheel Campground, Warwick. granbyregionalhorse.org.
10 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 10 – 11 DOM SCHRAMM CLINIC, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 12 MARK RASHID AND CRISSI MACDONALD CLINIC, North Dartmouth. ridinginspired.com. 12 JUMPER SHOW, Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 13 USEF SHOW, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com. 13 OPEN SHOW, Orange. crimsonacres.org. 13 BSTRA/NEECA JOINT BENEFIT PLEASURE RIDE, Felton Field, Barre. neeca.org.
7 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
14 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. wnepha.com.
7 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Bellwether Stables, Richmond. wnepha.com.
14 NSHA PLEASURE SHOW, Bob-Lyn Stables, Amesbury. northshorehorsemens.org.
7 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008.
14 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.
7 WRC TRAIL RIDE, Blandford Ski Area. westfieldridingclub.org.
14 BRDC NEECA OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
8 MHC SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.
14 MHC SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.
10 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
14 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Beland Stables, Lakeville. belandstables.com.
Hampshire County Riding Club Events!
APRIL 7 - Worthington Red Bucket Pancake Breakfast Ride
MAY 18 - Fun Day at Club Grounds - Games for horse & rider/handler; kids & adults. JUNE 9 - Obstacle and Trick Training Clinic with Peter & Philip Whitmore
JUNE 15 - Members Afternoon of Riding - Enjoy rings, trails, obstacles, jumps.
JUNE 15-16 - Campout Weekend at Club - with/without horse; bonfire, potluck. JUNE 23 - Chesterfield Gorge Ride
JULY 20 - TREC Clinic - Obstacles & Control of Paces
JULY 26-28 - Camping at Wagon Wheel Campground
E S O M RE S Y. E A RID R S ONL E B S MEM OIN U J Y! A D TO
AUGUST 18 - Amanda Lamoureaux of Working Equitation Northeast Clinic
SEPTEMBER 7 - Barbara Macon of Sterling Rewards Horsemanship Clinic
SEPTEMBER 15 - Hawley State Forest Ride
SEPTEMBER 29 - Northfield Mountain Fall Foliage Ride
OCTOBER 13 - Fun Day & Scavenger Hunt hosted by Hilltowns Misfits 4-H Club Most events open to members and guests. RSVP for rides and learn more at:
HampshireCountyRidingClub.org 42
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
21 HORSE TRIALS AND DRESSAGE SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com.
26 JUMPER SHOW, Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
14 NEHC “C” RATED, MHC “C” RATED SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
21 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
26 – 28 HCRC CAMPING WITH YOUR HORSE, Warwick. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
14 SOUTH COAST SERIES HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com.
21 CCEA JUDGED SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com.
17 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
21 HRC SHOW, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.
14 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
27 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org.
17 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
21 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. xenophonshows@gmail.com.
17 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
21 LEA MACINNIS JUDGED PLEASURE RIDE, Grafton. bstra.org.
17 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.
21 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Muddy Brook Farm, Amherst. wnepha.com.
19 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org.
22 – 26 USHJA EMERGING ATHLETES PROGRAM CLINIC, South Hadley. mhcriding.com.
20 HUNTER SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 20 TREC CLINIC OBSTACLES AND CONTROL OF PACE, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org.
26 – 28 YANKEE COLOR CLASSIC, West Springfield. westernmassapp.weebly.com.
23 MEDAL DAY, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
27 GRANBY SADDLE CLUB SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. luckyhorsefarm.com. 27 WESTERN DRESSAGE AND WORKING EQUITATION OBSTACLES SERIES, Windy Wood Stable, Westfield. cathydrumm.com. 27 – 28 VERA KESSELS CLINIC, Stony Brook Farm, Norfolk. jodipearsonkeating.com. 28 OPEN SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 28 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
20 NEECA GYMKHANA SERIES, Athol. neeca.org.
23 – 27 NEW ENGLAND MORGAN SHOW, Northampton. nemha.com.
21 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
24 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
21 OPEN SHOW, Haskins Farm, Berkley. sunflowermeadowsequestrian.weebly.com.
24 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
21 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Cutter Farm, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.
24 – 28 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
28 TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Red Mare Farm, Hatfield. redmarefarm.com. 28 SUMMER THREE-PHASE EVENT, Course Brook Farm, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 28 JUMPER AND DERBY CROSS, JH Eventing, Sutton. (978) 875-2036.
USDF & WDAA Recognized
DRESSAGE SHOW June 7 - Morgans s June 8 - All Breeds at the Connecticut Morgan Open Show in West Springfield, Mass. Fatima Pawlenko-Kranz of Algonquin, Illinois – USEF “R” Judge
8 June ds ree B l l A me! o c l We
Levels & Tests English/traditional: Intro through ird Level Western: Intro through Fourth Level
• Work out of your trailer or a stall. • English and western tests. Questions? Contact dressage coordinator Kaitlin Stachowiak at (860) 281-5185 and
kaitlinstachowiak@hotmail.com. Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
43
Dressage Schooling Show Series
May 19 - Kathryn Hitzig “L” judge June 23 - Karen Roberts “L” judge July 21 - Crystal Taylor “L” judge September 8 - Krystal Wilt “L” judge October 6 - Ann Gupthill “L” judge
de with Us! i R
31 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 31 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
Like us on Facebook to see who’s coming!
Xenophon Farm
More than 35 years of outstanding clinics, lectures, and competitions!
Janice & Elaine Kachavos
80 Sunderland Rd., Montague, Mass. 413.367.9828 XenophonFarm@aol.com
Glencroft Farm Spirit Ride
h sixt al! annu
Saturday, April 27 (rain date April 28)
Competitive Trail Challenge
Six miles of trails, six judged natural obstacles. Enjoy a fun day with equine & human friends! Ride the scenic trails surrounding Glencroft Farm in Southampton on wooded forest trails with rolling hills, streams, and open fields. The footing is generally good with minimal rocky spots. First to Sixth Place Ribbons & Prizes Donations will go to the Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Holyoke
Register online at glencroftfarm.com! To learn more, contact Kate at 413.535.9178 or kraymond24@hotmail.com. 44
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Rides from one-day and 15 miles to three-days and 100s. Maine to Virginia Schedule, rules, etc. at
ECTRA.org
31 – August 4 HEAD OF THE BAY CLASSIC, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
August
3 HUNTER SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com. 3 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 3 – 4 USDF DRESSAGE SHOWS I AND II, Bear Spot Farm, Concord. bearspotfarm.com. 4 CRDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org. 4 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Independence Stable, Belchertown.independencestablellc.com. 4 BRDC SCHOLARSHIP OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.
Cape Community Equestrian Association
SHOW SERIES in South Yarmouth
May 5 - Jeryl Davis judge June 30 - Michelle Hunting judge July 21 - Paige Benson judge August 11 - Tammy Johnson judge September 29 - Betsy Kupic judge Divisions and Classes
Hunter Over Fences & Under Saddle . Short Stirrup Beginner Equitation . Lead Line . Walk Trot Novice . Open . Hunt Seat Equitation Junior . Senior . Open Jumper . Equitation Pleasure . Horsemanship . Discipline Rail
Equestria nity nA mu
ciation sso
Advanced, Intermediate & Novice Divisions
31 – August 3 UPHA 14 SUMMER CLASSIC, Northampton. uphaonline.com/chapter-14.
Cape Com
Bill McMullin & Verne Batchelder
28 – 29 ELISA WALLACE CLINIC, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 30 MEDAL DAY, Grazing Fields, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.
For more information, reach out to Suzanne at xenophonshows@gmail.com.
Dressage Clinics
28 WNEPHA JUMPER SHOW, Bonnie Lea Farm, Williamstown. wnepha.com.
ccequineassoc.com Find a prizelist and details at
4 SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS, Palmer River Equestrian Center, Rehoboth. (508) 252-6347. 4 SUMMER SCHOOLING EVENT II, Berlin. orchardhillequestriancenter.com. 4 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 4 HRC SHOW, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org. 4 BSTRA LAKE DENNISON PLEASURE RIDE, Royalston. bstra.org. 4 WRC TRAIL RIDE,October Mountain State Park, Washington. westfieldridingclub.org. 4 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Grindstone Mountain Farm, Southampton. wnepha.com. 5 SYMPOSIUM WITH GARY ROCKWELL, Bear Spot Farm, Concord. bearspotfarm.com. 7 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com. 7 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 7 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 8 MHC SHOW, Herring Brook Farm, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com.
8 – 11 USEF NORTHAMPTON HUNTER JUMPER SHOW, Northampton. airshowjumping.com. 8 – 11 CCDS PLEASURE DRIVING SHOW, Orleton Farm, Stockbridge. colonialcarriage.org.
11 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 14 – 17 MASS. MORGAN SHOW, West Springfield. massmorgan.com.
Independence Stable
14 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 10 CCH SHOW, Raynham. capecodhunter.com. 10 NEECA YOUTH DAY, Athol. neeca.org.
14 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
10 WRC GAMES DAY, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.
14 – 18 SILVER OAK JUMPER TOURNAMENT, Halifax. silveroakjumpertournament.com.
10 UMASS BREED SHOW I, UMass Hadley Equine Center, Hadley. neda.org.
15 MHC, NEHC, DOWNEAST MEDAL SHOW, Back Bay Farm, Ipswich. backbayfarm.com.
10 NEECA LIBBY LYMAN TRAIL VERSATILITY CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.
16 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. herringbrookfarm.com. 16 JUMPER SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
11 CCEA JUDGED SHOW, South Yarmouth. ccequineassoc.com.
16 GAMES NIGHT, Orange. crimsonacres.org.
11 SSHC SHOW, Raynham. sshconline.org.
17 NEECA GYMKHANA SERIES, Athol. neeca.org.
11 UMASS BREED SHOW II, UMass Hadley Equine Center, Hadley neda.org.
17 CCH SHOW, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.
11 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
17 – 18 ’SUMMA IN THE HAMPTONS PAINT SHOW, Northampton. nephc.com. 18 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.
11 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com.
18 MERRIMACK VALLEY DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008.
11 USEF SHOW, Holliston. rideaugustfarm.com.
2019 Dressage Schooling Shows Traditional & Western Dressage Tests
May 5 June 2 August 4 September 8 Check our Facebook page for updates!
404 S. Washington St. Belchertown, Mass.
(413) 284-0371 independencestablellc.com
Presents the 24th
Are you and your horse having problems? Would you like your horse started under saddle and/or in harness? Peter specializes in starting young horses correctly. 100% customer satisfaction using natural horsemanship techniques. More than 20 years experience starting horses as well as fixing existing problems. References available. The cost of the one-month training is $1,200, including board.
It’s a Pleasure Training with Peter Whitmore (978) 652-2231 . ItsaPleasureTraining.com
Equine Expo Paraphernalia Sale Saturday, April 27, 2019 . 9-3 Large vendor marketplace selling new and used items! Plus services for the horse, rider, and driver. Demonstrations All Day! $5 Admission . children under 10 free 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 Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
45
18 HCRC AMANDA LAMOUREAUX OF WORKING EQUITATION NORTHEAST CLINIC, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 18 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org. 18 USEA AREA I SCHOOLING HORSE TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Mills. appleknoll.com. 18 MHC SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com. 18 NEHC “C” RATED, MHC “C” RATED SHOW, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 18 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com. 18 SOUTH COAST SERIES HUNTER SHOW, Buzzards Bay. southcoastseries.com. 21 WESTERN DRESSAGE LESSON SERIES, South Hadley. cathydrumm.com.
Linda Parmenter
USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist USDF “L” Judge Instruction . Training . Clinics . Sales
21 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 21 SOUTH COAST SERIES JUMPER SHOW, Valinor Farm, Plymouth. southcoastseries.com.
Hanover Equine Dental 91 Lombard Rd., Hubbardston (978) 928-5492 pinehaven@charter.net parmenterdressage.com
Barefoot Hoof Care Rehabilitation of Laminitis/Founder & Other Hoof Pathologies Transitions from Shod to Barefoot Maintenance Trims
Diet & Nutrition Analysis Total Body Health
Natural Horsemanship Training Connection & Communication
Achaina
Classical Dressage & Work-In-Hand Balance, Strength, & Agility
Holistic Equine Services . Kathleen Ladendecker
(413) 310-4692 . Achaina.com kathy@achaina.com
46
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Terry Paul
Graduate of the American School of Equine Dentistry
Performance floating for all disciplines. Serving all of southern New England.
eqdent1@verizon.net . (781) 630-0741
Tack Repairs & Restoration
saddles . chaps belts . halters bridles . reins harnesses dog collars & leashes
21 HHRC MINI SHOW, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 23 – 25 NEFHC MIDNIGHT SUMMER CLASSIC, West Springfield. nefhc.com. 24 FUN DAY, South Egremont. bluerider.org. 24 WESTERN DRESSAGE AND WORKING EQUITATION OBSTACLES SERIES, Windy Woods Stable, Westfield. cathydrumm.com. 25 OPEN SHOW, Haskins Farm, Berkley. sunflowermeadowsequestrian.weebly.com. 25 HORSE TRIALS AND DRESSAGE SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 25 BRDC 4-H OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com. 25 CMHSS CAMP MARSHALL OPEN SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net. 25 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 25 OPEN SHOW SERIES, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azrael acres.com. 28 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com.
Blue Dog Leather
28 HHRC MINI SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com.
64 South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass. 978.544.2681 bluedogleather.com
30 – September 1 MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, South Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.
Open by appointment, please call ahead.
continued on page 49 . . .
Susan Rainville
DRESSAGE
This Olde Horse
Dressage Training, Groundwork & Response Training for a more confident partnership. USDF bronze & silver medalist Dressage Schooling Show Series Weekly Lessons Affordable Training & Boarding Off-farm Clinics Adult Camp Competition Camps
White Spruce Farms Central Massachusetts (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com
ŠS. Shreve
Northampton
Portledge Steven driven by his owner Dr. Jonathan Leopold at the 1973 New England Morgan Horse Show in Northampton.
Lise Krieger
Certified Saddle Fitter saddle assessments fitting evaluations flocking . repairs consignments . sales
newenglandsaddlefit.com newenglandsaddlefit@comcast.net 203 . 685 . 2308
Got Manure? Lessons 5 Training Clinics 5 Drill Team Horse Shows Games Nights Summer Camps
MANURE REMOVAL FOR LARGE & SMALL FARMS
Roll-off containers 10 to 30 yards on call or scheduled service. Full stock pile removals.
Recovery . Maintenance . Performance Therapeutic Massage . Bodywork . Reiki
(413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net
978-425-6181 MitranoRemoval.com Proud sponsor of Bear Spot Musical Freestyle and Oakrise Farm Shows.
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
47
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 P.O. Box 7005, Warwick, RI 02887 cats@pawswatch.org, pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent control. Delivered!
Your Everything Equine “white pages”
NORTHEAST EQUINE VETERINARY DENTAL SERVICES LEAH LIMONE, DVM, DAVDC/EQ Topsfield, MA, (978) 500-9293 nevds.com Board certified in equine veterinary dentistry. Routine preventive care, maintenance, diagnostics, extractions. EQUINE ENTERTAINMENT •••••••••••••••••••••••••• DALE PERKINS/MESA FARM Rutland, MA, (508) 886-6898 daleperkinshorseshow.com Trick riding and much more. EQUINE MASSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans.
BARN BUILDERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• CARRIAGE SHED Serving the Northeast, (800) 441-6057 carriageshed.com Barns, arenas, shed rows, custom buildings.
EQUINE THERAPY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HIGH HORSE HILL THERAPEUTIC HORSEMANSHIP Middlefield, MA, (413) 961-9311 highhorsehill.com Therapeutic horsemanship for all ages.
DRESSAGE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BRADFORD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Haverhill, MA, (978) 374-0008 Dressage for all disciplines and driving. Keith Angstadt, USEF dressage judge.
FINANCING, LOANS, TAX PREP •••••••••••••••••••••••••• FARM CREDIT EAST (800) 562-2235, farmcrediteast.com Financing, loans, tax preparation, business consulting, financial planning.
CATHY DRUMM Pittsfield, MA, (413) 441-5278 cathydrumm.com Clinics, lessons, training, western and English dressage, hunter/jumper.
HAFLINGERS •••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough.
FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-8038 dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor. LINDA PARMENTER Hubbardston, MA, (978) 928-5492 parmenterdressage.com USDF bronze and silver medalist, USDF “L” judge; instruction, clinics, training. WHITE SPRUCE FARMS New Braintree, MA, (978) 257-4666 whitesprucefarms.com Dressage shows, instruction, all levels/ages. XENOPHON FARM Montague, (413) 367-9828 xenophonfarm@aol.com Dressage schooling shows, clinics, lessons, boarding, training, trails, owners on site. EQUINE DENTISTRY •••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 wbryantnatrualbalancedentistry.com Natural balance equine dentistry. Improved topline, maximized performance, increased flexion. Serving New England.
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HORSES FOR SALE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Sale horses, boarding, lessons, and training. STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable. Forty family, trail, and show horses to choose from. New loads every week. We buy horses, take trade-ins, and consignment horses. Great three-week exchange guarantee. Find us on Facebook. INSTRUCTION/TRAINING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• BACK BAY FARM Ipswich, MA, (978) 356-0730 backbayfarm.com Lessons, boarding, training, and sales. INSURANCE •••••••••••••••••••••••••• DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors.
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
FARM FAMILY INSURANCE farmfamily.com Boxborough: (978) 467-1001 Carver: (508) 866-9150 Centerville: (508) 428-0440 Easthampton: (413) 203-5180 Great Barrington: (413) 528-1710 Marlborough: (508) 485-3800 Middleborough: (508) 747-8181 Northborough: (508) 393-9327 Southwick: (413) 569-2307 Wilbraham: (413) 887-8817 Williamstown: (413) 458-5584 Worcester: (508) 752-3300 JUDGES •••••••••••••••••••••••••• 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. 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. STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING •••••••••••••••••••••••••• APPLE KNOLL FARM Millis, MA, (508) 376-2564 appleknoll.com Eventing training, lessons, schooling trials, clinics; facilities available for events. 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. 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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. . . Events continued from page 46
31 POLO MATCH, Georgetown. bostonpolo.org. 31 BLANDFORD FAIR HORSE SHOW, Blandford. blandfordfair.com. 31 CCH FINALS, Saddle Rowe, Medway. capecodhunter.com. 31 – September 1 VERA KESSELS CLINIC, Stony Brook Farm, Norfolk. jodipearsonkeating.com.
4 GRANBY SADDLE CLUB SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. luckyhorsefarm.com. 4 JUMPER CHALLENGE SERIES, Millis. appleknoll.com. 6 – 8 NEECA CAMPOUT VERSATILITY WEEKEND, Athol. neeca.org. 7 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 7 MHC HUNTER SHOW, Bolton. centurymillstables.com.
31 – September 1 MYOPIA HUNT HORSE SHOW, Hamilton. myopiahunt.org.
7 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Riverbank Farm, Dalton. wnepha.com.
September
7 NEECA CATHY DRUMM CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.
1 WNEPHA HUNTER SHOW, Harmony Hill Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com. 1 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com. 1 POLO MATCH, S. Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 1 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org.
7 BARBARA MACON CLINIC, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.org. 7 – 8 NEDA BREED SHOW AND USDF BREEDERS CHAMPIONSHIP, Hadley. neda.org.
Residential Camps: July 7-28
Day Camps: June 24-28 August 5-9
8 MHC SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com. 8 GAMES NIGHT, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.
Bonnie Castle 2019 Sessions: June 30 – July 13 July 14 – 27
Intensive Riding Camp 2019 Session: June 23 – 28
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
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Brookfield
Is This Your Horse?
Large and Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Serving the North Shore since 1951 Helen Noble, VMD . Robert Orcutt, DVM Derek Cavatorta, DVM PhD Kirstin Anderson, DVM . Ashley Taylor, DVM Mary Ann Montesano, DVM
295 High St, Ipswich, Mass. 978-356-1119 (ph) . 978-356-5758 (f)
srhvets.com
Is this your horse? This photo was taken in Brookfield. If this is your horse, contact us at win@mahorse.com for a $50 gift certificate from the Bay State’s very own SmartPak, smartpakequine.com, and a two-year subscription to Massachusetts Horse.
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RER Ponies Training, Lessons & Sales
by BHS trained, USDF “L” Graduate & Bronze Medalist
Heather Reynolds Dostal Available for Judging & Clinics U.S. Pony Club Riding Center offering boarding, training, pony starting, and tune-ups. Professional, well rounded, goal-oriented lesson program for riders of all ages beginner through advanced. Dressage shows and clinics.
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RERponies.com . rerponies@gmail.com 50
Massachusetts Horse April/May 2019
Farm & Equine . Equine Mortality . Horse Owners Liability Our agents have been serving the equine community for a combined 50+ years. Call Richard, Wendy, and John for a competitive quote with one of our many equine insurance carriers.
978-399-0025 | ABInsGroup.com Richard@abinsgroup.com Wendy@abinsgroup.com . John@abinsgroup.com Licensed in MA, NH, VT, ME, CT & RI
Amherst Farmer’s Supply 320 South Pleasant St., Amherst (413) 253-3436 amherstfarmerssupply.com
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
Hoosac Valley Coal and Grain 2 Gavin Ave., Adams (413) 743-0163 hoosacvalleycoalandgrain.com
A.W. Brown Pet & Garden Center 144 Shaker Rd., E. Longmeadow (413) 525-2115 awbrown.com
Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 countrycorralonline.com
Greenfield Farmers Co-op Exchange 269 High St., Greenfield (413) 773-9639 greenfieldfarmerscoop.com
Sweet Meadow Feed & Grain 111 Coolidge St., Sherborn (508) 650-2926 sweetmeadowfeedandgrain.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
Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville (413) 477-6913 hardwickfarmers.net Massachusetts Horse
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