Massachusetts Horse August/September 2013 by Community Horse Media

NORWEGIAN FJORDS: A WHOLE DIFFERENT BREED page 8

M ASSAC H U S E T TS

HORSE

RANCH RIDING RIGHT LEAD page 20

FOXHUNTING IN THE BAY STATE August/September 2013 mahorse.com $3

RIGHT LEAD page 24

MASSACHUSETTS IEA TEAMS HORSE SENSE page 26

LOWELL DRACUT TYNGSBORO STATE FOREST TRAIL GUIDE page 39

Make Your Dream a Reality with your own custom built Amish horse barn.

Amish crafted barns and run-in sheds delivered fully assembled to your site.

Post and Beam Structures of All Sizes and Applications.

More Custom Building Examples on our website!

Fully Assembled Shed-row and Run-in Barns.

Delivery Anywhere in the Country.

Horse Barns • Run-In Sheds • Riding Arenas • Certified Homes • Garages 1195 VA Cutoff Road, White River Junction, VT 05001

1-800-441-6057 • www.carriageshed.com Make a stable investment by buying a #1 Amish-quality horse barn at The Carriage Shed.

Massachusetts Horse

contents

August/September 2013

columns 20 Ranch Riding

courtesy of Blue Heron Farm

Alli Gilmore

Right Lead

24 Foxhunting in the Bay State Right Lead

26 Massachusetts Interscholastic Equestrian Association Teams Horse Sense

32 Blue Rider Stables: All in the Smiles

Lend a Hoof

39 Lowell Dracut Tyngsboro State Forest

Andrea Bugbee

Trail Guide

in every issue

features 8 Norwegian Fjords

6 From the Editor

A Modern Horseman horseperson profile

A Whole Different Breed

breed spotlight

Blue Heron Farm Fjords at 1,500 Feet farm spotlight

Bill Ritchie

Lovable Luna horse profile

34 Overherd: News in Our Community 40 Bay State Happenings 42 Partners 45 This Olde Horse 47 Events Calendar 58 Massachusetts Marketplace 60 The Neighborhood 61

Is This Your Horse?

Advertiser Index

Massachusetts Horse

from the editor

M AS SAC H U S E T T S

s we begin our 12th year of publishing Massachusetts Horse, let’s welcome our newest partner organization, the Cape Cod Dressage Association. Learn about its upcoming clinic on page 42. The ninth annual Massachusetts Horse Benefit Show will be held in Goshen on October 5. All proceeds will go to Blue Star Equiculture Horse Rescue and Sanctuary, which is located in Palmer. In the past eight years we’ve raised more than $37,600 for Bay State nonprofit horse rescues and therapeutic-riding programs. Check out the ad on the next page for all the 411.

Massachusetts Horse magazine is an independently owned and -operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for Massachusetts. © 2013 Massachusetts Horse All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this magazine or portions thereof in any form without prior written permission.

publisher/editor Stephanie Sanders-Ferris • steph@mahorse.com • (413) 268-3302

Sophie Gaunt

Anthony Ratti

HORSE vol. 12, no. 2 August/September 2013 ISSN 1945-1393 99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (413) 268-3302 • fax: (413) 268-0050 • mahorse.com

copy editor Doris Troy feature writers Andrea Bugbee, Holly Jacobson, Alessandra Mele, Stacey Stearns

Dianne Ratti

Julie Garvey Kati Bolduc

contributors Sue Bradley, Mary Brazie, Denise Kellicker, Kay Konove, Diane Merritt, Jennifer Moreau, Liz Russell county desk liaisons Barnstable and Franklin Counties Tollen Thurber • (413) 824-0922 • tollen@mahorse.com Berkshire, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties Alessandra Mele • (413) 949-1972 • alessandra@mahorse.com

Sophiea Bitel

Moments In Grace

Bristol County Michelle Camara • (508) 496-0925 • michelle@mahorse.com Essex County Holly Jacobson • (978) 356-5842 • holly@mahorse.com Essex and Middlesex Counties Sophiea Bitel • (781) 286-0729 • sophiea@mahorse.com

Keira Hazlewood

Norfolk and Plymouth Counties Laura Solod • (617) 699-7299 • laura@mahorse.com

Moments In Grace

Worcester County Angie Tollefson • (636) 459-5478 • angie@mahorse.com

Stephanie Martin

advertising main office • (413) 268-3302 • ads@mahorse.com Joanne McCluskey • (413) 323-6652 • joanne@mahorse.com Advertising deadline for the October/November issue is September 5.

Did you know Massachusetts Horse gives free Junior Horsemanship Awards to shows and competitive events throughout the Bay State? Each award goes to the junior exhibitor who has shown the best horsemanship and sportsmanship at the event. This is the junior who is not winning but works hard and has a great attitude. Congratulations to all Massachusetts Horse Junior Horsemanship Award winners. To request an award for your event, email award@mahorse.com. Here’s to the waning days of summer. The hay is stacked in the barn and the light is changing. Carrots are growing sweet and delicious in the vegetable garden, almost ready for eating, mostly by my horses. Enjoy!

Stephanie 6

August/September 2013

Massachusetts Horse is printed with vegetable ink on recycled paper.

@Mass_Horse

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

Massachusetts Horse

Benefit Show All proceeds go to: Blue Star Equiculture Draft Horse Sanctuary

October 5, Saturday 8 A.M. 140 Ball Road, Goshen, Mass. Ring 1A: Judge Jo-Ann Hamson Open Driving Judge: Jenn Sullivan Ring 1B/Outside Course Judge: Sherri Blews

Over $8,000 in prizes!

Katie Upton . katieupton.com

16 division day-end awards 8 ribbons and a prize awarded in each class Lead Line Walk Trot Hunt Seat Ages 7â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 Walk Jog Western Ages 7â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 Walk Trot or Jog Ages 13 and Over Walk Trot Canter Green Horse Walk Trot Hunt Seat Green Horse Walk Jog Western Green Horse Walk Trot Canter

Open 4-H Open Hunt Seat Open Western Youngster In-Hand Driving Single Small Equine Driving Single Small Equine In-Hand Junior Handler Small Equine In-Hand Adult Handler

Food booth . Fenced-in warm-up area Quiet, beautiful show grounds $200 Walk Trot Ultimate Pleasure Classic $200 Hunter Ultimate Pleasure Classic $200 Western Ultimate Pleasure Classic $100 Dover Saddlery Walk Trot Equitation Classic $100 Dover Saddlery Hunter Seat Equitation Classic

trail New ation! e loc s r u o c l smal ! e e r s Th vision i d e equin g drivin Two ons! divisi

$100 Dover Saddlery Stock Seat Equitation Classic Cupcake the Herdmaster Costume Classic

In the past seven years, $37,625 has been raised for Massachusetts nonprofit horse organizations!

Massachusetts Horse

Nor wegian Fjords

courtesy of Julia Horton

A Whole Different Breed

Julia Horton riding Haakon. by Stacey Stearns

jords are one of the oldest breeds in the world; their likeness appears in French cave paintings from 4,000 years ago. They later migrated to Norway, were domesticated, and, now known as Norwegian Fjords, have been a popular breed since. Bay State equestrians love their versatility, willing attitude, and athleticism.

Hooked on Fjords After a 35-year hiatus from riding, Carol Hill, who lives in South Dartmouth, was reintroduced to horses when she rode her friend Marny Mansfield’s Fjord gelding, Scout, in 2006. “I was fortyeight when I got back into riding and I’m only five feet one inch tall, so the size and temperament of the Fjords appealed to me,” Carol says. Marny owns four Fjords, part of the therapeutic-riding programs she works with. “I was hooked on riding and Scout,” Carol says, “but Marny wasn’t going to sell 8

August/September 2013

him.” For a few years, Carol took lessons and leased horses from Pompositticut Day Camp. In December 2010, the therapeutic-riding facility where Scout worked was ending its program; Carol began leasing Scout, and he then moved to Pinegate Farm, in Swansea. “Fjords are fantastic,” Carol says. “Because they were bred in hilly Norway, they couldn’t develop the habit of spinning and running away when frightened — if they did, they’d run off the side of a cliff. Instead, Fjords stop and investigate.” In June 2011, Marny swapped Lilly for Scout. Lilly needed a change of scenery after spending three years in a therapeutic-riding program, and the program needed a horse Scout’s size. “Lilly stayed with me for a year and a half,” Carol says. She’s 13.3 hands, with a broad chest and back. “Lilly was doing walk-trot work in the therapeutic program and did-

n’t have much of a canter, but her trot was fabulous,” Carol says. “My trainer and I developed her canter and did a little jumping. Lilly’s very game. If I point her toward a jump, she tries it. Lilly’s back in the therapeutic-riding program now, and is the learn-to-canter horse — she catches her riders if they lose their balance. She’s not the most athletic horse, but is very sweet and willing.” Marny is sensitive about keeping her horses fresh and happy, and the program can be arduous work for a horse, so Scout came back to Carol in December 2012, when he was ready for a break. “Scout’s thirteen now and gives lessons at Pinegate on Saturdays,” Carol says. “He’s not push-button — he makes his riders work. He’s big and athletic. He’s done some western pleasure and can sidepass, which I’ve transitioned to a leg yield and half pass. He’s very trainable and likes to be challenged.”

Fjords are known for their even temperament. “The breed’s willingness to work is rewarding,” Carol says. “Because of Lilly’s history of not having much of a canter and build, I didn’t have high expectations as far as showing. I took her to the Flatlands Schooling Show, in Rehoboth, though, and she was fabulous. Taking each of them to a show and having them perform well, behave, and enjoy the experience was great.” Carol plans to participate with Scout at some shows and a hunter pace. “Fjords are more athletic than they’re given credit for,” she says. “They can do anything. They’re eager to please, and don’t mind if a lot of different people ride them.”

Mr. Personality Angela Young, of Forever Young Farm in Berkley, went to work on a Fjord-breeding farm when she was 16 and stayed until her mid-20s. “I wanted a Fjord gelding of my

Angela Young riding Frits.

own,” she says. “When I found Frits the morning he was born, on April Fools Day in 2002, I told the farm owners I wanted to buy him, and that family gave me Frits as a college-graduation gift.” Angela was a dressage rider and Frits was going to be her new dressage horse, but Frits had other ideas. With help from her friends, Angela discovered Frits’s niche. “He’s eleven years old now, and the ultimate trail horse for me,” Angela says. “Together we’ve done many judged pleasure rides, hunter paces, team penning, and the versatility competition at Equine Affaire, and tried out for America’s Favorite Trail Horse. “Frits is Mr. Personality,” she says. “He comes when he’s called; one time the herd got loose and when I called for him, he came running over the hill, bringing the entire herd with him. I never trained him to do that; he just does it.” Frits is very willing,” Angela says, “and we trust

Madison Moynihan and Anita.

each other. I’ve never had a horse like that before. It’s rewarding to be able to take Frits anywhere, anytime, and have full confidence that he’ll be there with me; he’s never let me down.” The tryout for America’s Favorite Trail Horse was an interesting experience for the pair. “There was an interview and an obstacle course,” Angela says. “Frits’s talent was the electric slide, and he performed wonderfully with the music. They selected three horses and an alternate from the Northeast and Frits was chosen as the alternate — it was cool for us and great exposure for Fjords as trail horses.” Angela got into team penning three years ago. She and some friends went to a local farm and worked with moreexperienced horses. At first Frits didn’t know what to do with the cows, but Angela says he had a good time playing tag with them. Frits now moves boldly when maneuvering them, and

follows them in a slow, steady motion to get the cows where they need to be. Angela and Frits began competing in team penning, and within a year the pair pointed out of the amateur division and started competing professionally. “After being involved with team penning every other weekend last year, we’re taking a break and doing more hunter paces for a while,” Angela says. “We compete in the middle division and jump. I also want to take Frits back to the versatility competition at Equine Affaire.”

Best Friends “Anita was our first horse,” says Michelle Moynihan, of Dighton. “We bought her when she was two years old and my daughter Madison was three. Angela, whom we call the Fjord Whisperer, had known Anita since birth and recommended her. Fjords are a great breed for first-time horse owners.” Madison is 15 now. “Anita and I have grown up together,”

she says. “She’s my best friend and I tell her everything.” Madison and Anita ride English, jump, trail-ride, participate in team penning and judged pleasure rides, and have taken some barrel lessons. “Anita is gentle and takes care of her riders,” Michelle says. “All of the little kids in the neighborhood ride her, and several learned to ride on Anita; I trust her with them. When Madison was six, we went to the Northeast Fjord Association Show and she participated in the costume class with five of our friends and their Fjords. The group dressed up as the Fruit of the Loom characters: Madison and Anita were the green grapes. Balloons were popping everywhere, but none of the horses cared, and Madison and Anita won the class.” Five years ago Michelle bought a second Fjord, Anders, who was 10 months old at the time. Angela and Bob Burrelli trained him and Massachusetts Horse

Quality leather goods made to your specifications: handmade western saddles . chaps . chinks halters . bridles . reins . breast collars . belts harnesses . repairs . restoration

Michelle is now riding him in western pleasure. “When Anders was three, we did a judged pleasure-ride series and won our division,” Michelle says. “He’s willing to learn and tries really hard. We’re working on our jog, lope, and neck reining with Angela’s help.” “One of my favorite memories is showing in a jumping class against some eighteen-year-olds when I was ten,” Madison says. “Anita did awesome and we ended up winning.” Madison is now also riding a Quarter Horse, and shares Anita with a little girl named Macy, who’s learning to jump. “Fjords are very laid back and can do it all,” Michelle says. “With all of the snow this past winter, we took out our Fjords and tried skijoring. We put the kids on sleds and pulled them. Everyone had a blast, and we were surprised when the moms stayed up on the skis longer than the kids did.”

Hand-crafted gear using high quality materials and workmanship. Careful fitting for horse and rider.

Meant to Be

Blue Dog Leather Twisted stirrups are great for knees and proper foot alignment. Our custom saddles include twisted stirrups. We can convert the stirrups on your saddle, too.

www.bluedogleather.com South Shore Dr., Orange, Mass. 978.544.2681 Open most days. Call ahead to be sure.

Becky Mahoney, of Evergreen Farm in Walpole, grew up with her family’s work horses. She fondly remembers the Fjords she rode and drove. “I never forgot our Fjords,” Becky says. “I always loved them.” As an adult, she wasn’t looking for a

horse when, she says, she found Dieter at Nevins Farm in Methuen. “I fell in love with him and had to have him,” she says. “We adopted Dieter three years ago, when he was eighteen. Anyone can ride Dieter; he’s so gentle. My son plays on him and my twelve-year-old daughter, Celia, shows him in dressage and hunt seat on the local circuit.” Becky says Dieter is usually the only Fjord at an event, and everyone asks a lot of questions about him. “Dieter is kind and willing to do anything. He goes anywhere and can go by himself. He goes through any terrain, too,” she says. “I’ve done some ground driving with him and he’s obviously trained to drive. Dieter’s a better driving horse than riding horse, and he’s great under saddle,” Becky says. “I’m going to get a wagon for him and start driving him, and eventually I’d like to have a team of Fjords.” Becky, too, is a fan of the breed’s temperament. “Dieter has quite the personality. If the weather isn’t good and he has to stay inside, he tries to take the pitchfork out of my hands while I’m cleaning,” she says, laughing. “When it’s time to eat, Dieter has made a game out of chasing the goats, but he’s careful not to hurt them — they’re all friends.” Becky’s found a community with the

Blue Heron Farm High Quality, Well-bred, and Versatile Fjord Horses

Call for breeding and horse sales www.blueheronfarm.com 10

August/September 2013

. .

Bill & Norma Coli

(413) 339-4045

info@blueheronfarm.com

Charlemont, Massachusetts

breed. “I have a lot of Fjord friends from other countries now who found me on Facebook because of Dieter,” she says. “It’s been fun to connect with lots of people.”

Love at First Sight “My daughter, Julia Horton, began riding when she was five years old,” says Rita Maccini, who lives in Shelburne. “We met Ceacy Henderson, of Colrain, and Fjords five years later, and it was love at first sight.” Julia began taking lessons with Ceacy, and then Ceacy gave Julia a Fjord named Willy. “Soon I wanted a Fjord, too,” Rita says. In 2002, Ceacy went to visit a friend in Canada and returned with the man’s team of driving Fjords, Haakon and Donder. “I saw Haakon and that was it,” Rita says. “I can’t emphasize enough that Fjords do it all,” she says. “They give you a hundred and ten percent and aren’t pushovers. The partnership we’ve formed with Haakon is very rewarding; he’s part of the family. In high school, Julia used him for her senior thesis. She learned how to drive, took him to school with her, and drove him there.” Julia and Haakon competed in novice eventing for quite a few years. She

Massachusetts Horse

August/September 2013

now trains out of Locust Hill Farm, in New Hampshire. Haakon was lonely at home without her, so he’s there now too. “He’s twenty-two,” says Rita. “He gives a couple of lessons and Julia rides him a little. I trail-ride him and would like to drive him more too. We just want to keep enjoying him.” “Having Haakon was a really great way to grow up,” Julia says. “I galloped him around fields bareback, took him swimming in the pond with friends, and could go to a horse show the next weekend and do well. He was also challenging enough to teach me a lot. Now I’m teaching students on him. Fjords are amazing; they take everything in stride.” Julia credits Haakon with her current level of skills. “Fjords got me into horses and made me the rider I am today,” she says. “I’ve been given so many opportunities because of horses, and I owe all of my success to getting my start with Fjords.” “They’re a whole different breed of animal,” says her mom. “Fjords are forgiving and patient, eager to please, and a joy to work with.” Stacey Stearns is a lifelong equine enthusiast from Connecticut who enjoys competitive trail riding with her gelding and learning the ins and outs of dressage with her mare. When not in the barn, she reads and writes about horses.

In the October/November issue we’ll feature photographers, insurance tips, buying and selling equestrian properties, and eventing. Want to be interviewed? Place an ad? Email us at info@mahorse.com.

Summer Camps

Upcoming Events

Carnival/Circus Week July 29 to August 2

August 24 Worcestershire Pony Club 2 Phase karcorkery@verizon.net for info.

Knights &. Princesses Week August 5 to 9 MacDonald’s Farm Week August 18 to 23

Boarding . Training . Stalls Available Full, rough, or semi-rough board, indoor arena, all-day turnout, minutes to Brimfield trail system.

Beginner to Advanced Instruction Hunt Seat/Equitation, Dressage, Eventing, and Western Instruction

September 15 Four Town Fair Open Show www.fortownfair.com October 20 Worcestershire Pony Club 2 Phase karcorkery@verizon.net for info.

121 Haynes Hill Road, Brimfield, MA • (413) 245-3083 • www.fairviewfarmsjjc.com Massachusetts Horse

Blue Heron Farm

Charlemont

Fjords at 1,500 Feet

by Alessandra Mele

arved into a wooded hillside of Charlemont is 130 acres of pure working farm. The steep incline, rising 1,500 feet, is dotted with grazing Norwegian Fjords, frolicking Boer goats, and multiple barn cats and dogs. Rows of blueberry bushes promise a bountiful summer harvest. Surrounding maple trees are laden with buckets, gathering pure Massachusetts maple syrup in the early spring. At the heart of this agricultural haven are Bill and Norma Coli, who have dedicated their lives to Blue Heron Farm, and especially to the Norwegian Fjords they raise.

plished stock on a regular basis. Sale inquiries come in from across the nation, the result of their solid reputation as savvy breeders and skilled trainers. Driving was the original focus of the

Raising the Fjord

Alessandra Mele

Bill and Norma recognize that this combination of physical ability and mental astuteness calls for careful training, and they take great pride in the way they breed, develop, and condition their young Fjords. “We’re committed to the purity of the breed, and take a slow-and-steady approach to training,” says Norma. “We don’t sell the young stock. First, we raise them into mature, mentally and physically developed horses.” From the beginning, Fjord foals learn ground manners and must become comfortable with the daily routines of the farm. The A Working Farm first stages of training take Bill and Norma met in place in the round pen to 1969. Agriculture was a establish a mode of commutual interest from the munication. The young start, as the couple made horses then graduate to the Norma Coli, Margaret and Eleanor Williams, and Bill Coli at Blue Heron Farm with their first home together out Norwegian Fjord stallion NFR Steinbjorn. oval pen, where they’re of a cabin in Vermont, with introduced to riding conFjord program: The old-type Fjord’s no electricity, a woodstove, an outhouse, cepts. In the third stage, they enter the and ample land to grow food. They came heavy, muscular build lends itself to the riding ring and are exposed to flat-work task. Bill and Norma made a transition to exercises as well as fences. upon the Charlemont farm in 1975, and have called Blue Heron home ever since. hunter-jumper riding after meeting a The process is slow but careful. The land they occupy has been connumber of young women, often with a 4Generally, a horse doesn’t feel the weight tinuously farmed since 1797. The antiquity H background, who were interested in of a rider until its fourth or fifth year. of the place presented Bill and Norma “Because the breed matures late,” says the breed. with significant repair work, as they had Bill, “we make sure we take the time to “The market for these horses has to bolster sagging barns and fix broken get the horse mentally ready for riding, changed,” says Bill. “We started breeding fences “left and right,” as Bill puts it. and allow him to become familiar with lighter, sportier body types, ideal for Today, agricultural tradition remains his body. A horse sold from this farm has dressage, hunter paces, and trail riding. present in every aspect of the farm, from a good five years of hard work and solid Norwegian Fjords excel in all these discitowering silos to the working sugarhouse. plines.” The current resident stallion, training behind him.” Bill and Norma knew they wanted a That training goes beyond the riding NFR Steinbjorn, is a stunning example of sugaring operation when they first purring. Norma and Bill strive to this modern type of Fjord. chased the farm, and maple syrup is The physical versatility of the Fjord is “bombproof” their horses, and actively today a vital part of the farm’s business as expose them to as many new and unfajust one of the qualities that Bill and the main crop. They produce between miliar experiences as possible. These Norma admire in their herd. “They’ll 600 and 800 gallons of certified-organic range from taking trips to show grounds, work their hearts out for you,” says maple syrup each year from their 3,000 to exploring wooded trails, to braving Norma. “We love this breed.” In addition, taps. foam swim noodles and tarps. Natural the mental capacity the Norwegian Fjord Horses arrived on the farm 25 years conditioning is also an essential part of ago, when the couple imported two pure- demonstrates is something the couple each horse’s development. All the horses consider to be impressive. “They’re hardy live outside year-round on the sloped pasbred old-type Norwegian Fjord mares, horses with beautiful brains,” Bill says. Mirabelle and Gitane, and a stallion tures, which gives them plenty of room “Fjords are smart and willing, which named Ring. These three horses served for movement and play. makes them quick learners. This also as the foundation of the Blue Heron Throughout the process, Bill and means they can easily learn bad habits, Farm breeding program. Norma count on confident riders but we work very hard here to teach Now a large herd dwells on the hill. Margaret and Eleanor Williams to guide good habits at a young age.” the horses. Margaret is a recent graduate Bill and Norma actively breed, train, and sell Fjords, turning out robust, accom. . . continued on page 46

August/September 2013

Massachusetts Horse

Bill Ritchie by Alessandra Mele by Lise A. Krieger

A Modern Horseman

Rochester

The Journey Childhood summers spent in North Harwich, on the Cape, sparked Bill’s interest in horses. Today he remembers

Alessandra Mele

s the horse community adapts to keep up with the modern world, it becomes more difficult to find a true horseman. Bill Ritchie, of Rochester, fits the title. As a rider, he has retired trophies in both western and English disciplines. As a trainer, he has guided hundreds of students and horses to success. As a judge, he’s one of the most sought-after individuals in the show ring in the Northeast. As a board member, he’s responsive to the needs of those he serves. As a barn manager, he’s dedicated to the care of his clients’ horses, and has never forgotten how to muck out a stall. Bill Ritchie’s experiences and his incredibly active role in the Massachusetts horse community add up to the very definition of the concept of horsemanship.

August/September 2013

walking down a dirt road, where pony rides were available behind a gas station. “I was hooked from then on,” he says. “It was what I wanted to do.” Thereafter, he did whatever he could to ride. He worked at a farm in Dennis Port cleaning stalls

and giving pony rides in exchange for the opportunity to ride the horses. Through high school, he continued to work hard and learn all he could about horses. This led to a six-year apprenticeship at Misty Valley Farm, in Pennsylvania, where he worked under Tom and Sue Ryan, breeders and trainers of several world-champion Quarter Horses. After gaining invaluable experience with the breed there, he moved around, training at several show stables. This included time at Rollingwood Farm, in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, where he worked with the nationally recognized Arabian trainer Charles Ethier. It was there that he met the two-year-old Quarter Horse filly Luv-Express, known as Luv-E, whom he partnered with to earn championships and retire trophies. After ten years as a professional, Bill thought it was time to try something different. He purchased the Kedarburn Inn,

a bed-and-breakfast in Waterford, Maine, which offered fine dining and accommodations. Bill brought Luv-E with him, and turned the garage into a barn for the mare and a pony friend. Trail riding and swimming were their pastimes. “The Kedarburn Inn was a huge success,” Bill says. “I could have done that forever, and it was a lot of fun, but I had to get back to where I was meant to be.” After three years, Bill sold the bedand-breakfast and returned to the horse world. Going back to the Cape, he bought a piece of land in Falmouth and built a barn that would serve as his own training facility for the next 13 years. He filled the barn with clients’ horses and remembers the atmosphere there fondly: “We were like a family,” he says. “I watched many of the kids grow up. It was just the right kind of place for that.” It was also during this time that Bill expanded into other breeds. Quarter Horses had been his focus, but as he worked more with Appaloosas, Arabians, Paints, and Friesians, he found the diversification to be natural. “I’ve always loved all breeds,” says Bill. “I was, of course, originally drawn to the Quarter Horses, but you look at the Arabians and you just go ‘Wow,’ and the Saddlebreds are regal — it was an easy transition for me to embrace several breeds.” He tried other disciplines as well, branching out from western and English pleasure. Trying his hand in dressage and hunter over fences he believes improved his horsemanship: “It was nothing I stuck with, but the fundamentals I gained from these different experiences and disciplines have proved invaluable.”

Bill Ritchie Training Stables At his facility in Falmouth, Bill was giving lessons to Steve Schilling on Luv-E. Steve’s daughter and son also trained with Bill, and horses became a family affair. Steve loved the sport, and began thinking about building a farm. He proposed the idea to Bill, who agreed to partner with him. The 200 acres in Rochester that Steve purchased for the facility was undeveloped woodland. In 2001, after a year of construction and temporary stalls, Sterling Pointe Stables opened its doors. The combination of Steve’s vision for a high-caliber equestrian center and Bill’s extensive equine knowledge resulted in a state-of-the-art facility. Bill Ritchie Training Stables operates at Sterling Pointe Farm, uniting a superior stabling environment with top-notch professional training. Bill Ritchie Training Stables actively competes on the New England Horsemen’s Council (NEHC), Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council (MHC), United State Equestrian

Federation (USEF), and South Shore Horsemen’s Council (SSHC) show circuits. Bill and assistant trainer Roger Flood regularly take students and horses to the top of the ribbons in western, saddle-seat, hunt-seat, and in-hand classes. Bill continues to show horses himself as well. “It’ll be a very sad day when I’m not showing,” he says with a laugh. The pride Bill takes in his own horses is evident, and rightfully so. They’re accomplished, versatile athletes. “They can do it all,” he says. “My horses are trained in western, English, and halter. That’s getting to be a rare thing these days, as horses are becoming more specialized. But I believe in a well-rounded horse, and it’s why I love showing in New England: the all-breed shows are just more fun.”

“It’s so important to be honest — to yourself, to your horse, to your client,” Bill says. Whether it’s one of his own horses in the ring or a client’s, Bill strives for perfection. “Nothing should go unnoticed when preparing for the show ring,” he says. “Sometimes the horse I’m showing isn’t the best horse out there, but he’s capable of winning because I’m showing him to the nth degree. I never bring a horse into the ring unless I have full confidence in his ability to win. I make sure everything’s just perfect.” Above all, Bill’s training philosophy is that honesty is the best policy. “It’s so important to be honest — to yourself, to your horse, to your client,” he says. “This isn’t a sale farm. I’m about the education of horse and rider.”

A Horseman’s Contributions Bill’s role in the horse community has grown. In 1985 he became an NEHCregistered judge, and has served in that capacity all over the Northeast at wellrespected shows, among them the Deerfield Fair, the Lancaster Fair, and the Hopkinton Fair. Here, too, he’s about educating riders, and likes to offer tips to competitors at the conclusion of their class. Bill is the current president of the SSHC and sits on the board of directors

of the MHC and the NEHC. “It’s rewarding to be able to recognize a need within this community and be able to address it,” he says. “It gives me the opportunity to know our industry, and understand what we have to do to move it forward.” One of the most significant contributions Bill has made to the New England show circuit is the creation of the colorbreed division. He proposed the idea in 1992 after returning from a big show in New York, where he noticed the overwhelming presence of color breeds. “A division for these horses seemed like a real need to me,” he says, “so I made the suggestion, we came up with class specifications, and it went through.” The colorbreed division is now one of the most popular classes. The recent addition of Hunter Pleasure Equitation classes is another effort Bill initiated, as he recognized the need for hunt-seat equitation in the pleasure rings. This is becoming a very popular class that Bill says he’s excited to see take off, as several of his own riders regularly participate and find success within this division. Giving back to the community is also on Bill’s agenda. He believes that anyone who has a desire to ride ought to have the opportunity, and proposed that the MHC address this. The result is the MHC Assisted Riding Program, which offers nominated, deserving students a $500 voucher toward riding lessons. “It’s a great program because there were a lot of kids who wanted horses in their lives but just couldn’t afford to have them,” Bill says. “I saw this need out there, and figured if the organization has the money, we should utilize it to help. Giving back is important.” Bill was also instrumental in establishing the NEHC scholarship program. He realized that scholarships were available only to kids in medal classes, and questioned why the opportunity was limited in this way. Now any college-bound junior rider who meets the criteria may apply. “It’s nice to know that we’re doing things that are benefiting our members and making them happy,” Bill says. The contributions Bill Ritchie has made in all of his roles are what make him a true horseman. His unwavering dedication to the horse, respect for the tradition of equestrian sports, and recognition of the changing needs of the community make him the epitome of the title. Alessandra Mele is a recent graduate of Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where she was captain of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association huntseat team. She lives in Wilbraham, and enjoys riding her Quarter Horse, JoJo, and volunteering at Blue Star Equiculture, in Palmer, where she’s learning to drive draft horses.

Massachusetts Horse

Lovable Luna

Holyoke by Andrea Bugbee

asthampton veterinarian John Cowley has owned his Norwegian Fjord, called Luna, since she was a weanling 22 years ago. One of the things he remembers about this exceptional little mare in those days is that she always liked to be hugged. “Some people call the Fjords the golden retrievers of the horse world,” John says. Just as golden retrievers are used as comfort dogs — to soothe people suffering from stress, isolation, or trauma — Luna has found her vocation as a comfort horse of sorts, giving rides to and accepting pats from children and adults with disabilities. Well known and beloved, Luna is one of the favorite therapy horses at the Therapeutic Equestrian Center, in Holyoke.

see if she would be suitable for therapeutic riding, he was stunned at the results. “She had never been ridden before, and they went out for an hour ride and Luna was perfect,” he recalls. That was the first sign that Luna had the ideal temperament for carrying disabled riders. A full-figured blonde with beautiful eyes and lush lashes, a nose for treats, and a heart of gold, Luna was nominated for TEC’s Rookie of the Year award. Well over a decade later, she remains what TEC barn manager and certified therapeuticriding instructor Nora Britton calls “definitely a favorite. Whenever we have a new rider or a new volunteer, Luna’s our go-to girl. In lessons, she’s slow and steady. She has a little trot that’s perfect for our riders, and nothing fazes her. She just has Therapeutic riding instructor apprentice Bonnie Smith of Southwick (left) and the right personality for this. Therapeutic Equestrian Center barn manager Nora Britton of Holyoke (right) lead Therapeutic Equestrian She’s wonderful, sweet, and laid Luna as Miguel Rodriguez, of Holyoke, enjoys a ride. Center back. She loves people, and she Called TEC for short (rhymes with neck), 200 adults and children with disabilities, also loves her job.” the center got its start back in the 1970s, among them attention-deficit disorder, Many horse owners mistakenly when a girl named Geraldine O’Connor hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, autismbelieve that therapeutic-riding programs agreed to give pony rides after church at spectrum disorders, developmental-delay provide an ideal retirement job for older a nearby religious center in exchange for syndrome, Rhett syndrome, cerebral or dull horses. After all, they just walk in being able to exercise her horse on the palsy, hearing deficits, blindness, multiple circles for a couple of hours a day, right? grounds. Jericho House was a Catholic sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, juvenile According to Nora, however, the job of a Church outreach center, then overseen arthritis, and scoliosis. therapeutic-riding horse is a bit more by Father Robert Wagner, and was a way complicated. “It’s not an easy job for The Right Horse for the Job to serve parishioners isolated from tradihorses,” says Nora. “It’s actually pretty For her first five or six years, Luna lived tional church services because of their stressful.” with John and Northampton attorney disabilities. All in a Day’s Work Lee Daniels, who had fallen in love with Geraldine’s pony rides were an their sweet-tempered filly at the breeder’s A horse lover with a brother who has instant hit. They were so popular, in fact, Down syndrome, Nora began at TEC as a farm shortly after they purchased her that Father Wagner arranged to send ten-year-old volunteer. Today she’s one of brother, Zorba. “Luna is very well bred,” Gerry for professional training as a certithe center’s few paid employees, caring fied therapeutic-riding instructor. He also John says. “Her mother [Civian] was one for the horses daily and teaching as well. of the top performing mares in the asked the Beavers Club, a service organi“It’s not easy for a horse to have a rider Northeast for a long time. She just won zation made up of men of French who’s probably unbalanced up there, or everything everywhere she went. Her Canadian ancestry, if they would build a a rider who has outbursts. It’s not easy to father was one of the biggest Fjords I small stable on the property. These phibe led all the time and to put up with a ever saw.” lanthropists agreed, and over the years, side walker,” she says. “But you can put John and Lee used Luna primarily through other charitable gifts, an indoor absolutely anyone on Luna and she’ll just for light driving and for breeding, so riding arena, an office, a viewing lounge, keep walking along. That speaks volumes when TEC, for which John is the veteria handicapped-accessible bathroom, a about her.” narian, suddenly came up with two unusheated tack room, and a run-in shed For example, when Carol Elderkin, able horses in their busy program, John have been added. of Florence, comes to ride, Luna must offered the loan of Luna. Now its own entity, separate from stand absolutely still while four assistants That was more than 15 years ago. Jericho House, TEC is entering its 30th When John asked his barn manager to help Carol, who is wheelchair bound, to year as an independent 501(c)(3) agency. mount. Despite all the commotion try the quiet driving mare under saddle to All instructors are trained and certified Andrea Bugbee

August/September 2013

through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, and volunteers and staff (horses included) annually serve some

around her, Luna stands like a champion and Carol, eyes twinkling with the love of horses, gets an hour out of her chair and into a saddle each week. During typical riding lessons, Luna has a volunteer leading her, a rider on her back, and one or two volunteers walking at the saddle. Each student has a slightly different way of riding and each volunteer has a slightly different way of leading. And lessons are varied: It might consist of a game of Red Light/Green Light, or shooting basketballs from horseback, or a trail ride full of real-life distractions such as barking dogs, a wooden bridge, and yummy grass beckoning to the horse. “I think maybe five percent of horses would be able to tolerate this,” John says. Once, he said, an autistic boy buried his fingers deep into Luna’s luxuriant forelock, unfortunately getting them tangled. Luna never pulled back or threw her head, but the real miracle was that the situation made the boy laugh. According to his parents, he hadn’t laughed in years.

Physical, Social, Emotional, Interpersonal “The horses are basically our therapy equipment, and it takes a pretty special

horse to do this,” says Sue Panitch, who has been a member of TEC’s board of directors since the 1980s. “It has to be comfortable with wheelchairs and crutches, and it has to be spectacularly good with people. The horses can do all sorts of things. They’re amazing, amazing therapeutic equipment.” One little girl, Sue recalls, couldn’t walk because she had abbreviated tendons in her legs. Riding with Geraldine (who eventually grew up to become one of TEC’s directors), she progressed from very short stirrups on the smallest saddle and pony to longer stirrups on a full-size horse in a big western saddle. “They discovered that the stretching using different-sized saddles and horses had done the job,” Sue says now. Because of this, the little girl was able to manage leg braces, and in time she learned to walk. Sue tells another story, this one about a boy with cerebral palsy. Because he had no muscle control, his instructor rode double with him, holding him tight in front of her on a specialized saddle pad with stirrups. “There was something about being held, about the warmth of the horse, about the motion of the horse,” Sue says. For some reason, each week, for about half an hour after his lesson, the boy was able to talk.

Miguel Rodriguez, of Holyoke, has tons to say in Luna’s favor. Charming, personable, and contagiously cheerful, Miguel neck-reins because he has use of just one hand. His weight is back and his heels are up, and he twists in the saddle to take in the sights as he rides. Miguel is having a blast, and Luna is placid and bright and doing her job beneath him. Miguel keeps leaning forward in the saddle to run his good hand over Luna’s thick, roached mane. “Beautiful horse, beautiful horse,” he says with a grin. “Have fun. Have fun. Look! I love her!” Both horse and rider are a delight to be near, and the instructor and volunteers smile as they share in the pleasure of something so natural and positive and uplifting. “Therapeutic riding is something that has to be seen to be believed. It’s really amazing,” says Nora, who witnesses the triumphs of smiles, balance, patience, camaraderie, and learning every day she goes to work. “We’re very proud of Luna and we’re very proud of our program. This is a really special place. Horses just have that magic.” Andrea Bugbee is a freelance reporter. She lives with her husband and their children in Southwick.

Massachusetts Horse

right lead by Andrea Bugbee

Ranch Riding

The Right Lead offers advice and tips from your neighbors and friends. Horse professionals from all walks of life will help you find the right lead.

Say Neigh to Cutthroat Competition

There’s nothing new about the disciplines in western ranch riding, such as team penning, team sorting, and roping — nothing, that is, except for its growing popularity in the very eastern state of Massachusetts. “Honest to God, there’s nothing more exciting than working a cow,” says Lisa Pappalardo, who owns Golden Shoe Stable in Methuen. “Cows have a great brain. They’ll try to outsmart you. They’re brilliant little animals, and they’re sneaky. Sometimes they win; sometimes you win.” Periodically, Lisa rents a dozen cows to provide her students with weekend clinics — not in equitation and showmanship, but in moving cows. “Most of the people who sign up are adults who want to try something fun,” Lisa says, “then once they try it, they’re hooked.”

riding clinics and events in the eastern part of the state. When requested (as she often is), she arranges the competitions, making sure that everything is “fair and square.” Furthermore, she appears to know practically every western rider in Massachusetts, so she has become a hobby hub, pairing riders to teams, knowing who has rentable cattle, booking announcers, and even finding and

Ranch sorting at Chipaway Stables, in Acushnet. With recreational ranch riding, “fun” is the apt description. David Raucher, of Heritage Farm in placing horses for people. Easthampton, began organizing team“We have doctors, vets, and contracroping and team-penning events in the tors,” Pinky says. “Tomorrow I’m going to 1990s. At first an attractive alternative for a dressage barn in Pepperell to do a verriders looking to do something different satility clinic. We’ve even had people with their horses, the program eventually come out from the Norfolk Hunt Club. snowballed to be more about prizes and They all want to come out and play.” competition than about the average There are people neck reining in English horse and rider. To keep the emphasis saddles, and hunters and dressage horses on pleasure and learning, Heritage Farm decked out western for the weekend. All now holds its New England Stock Show types of horses — from Clydesdales to Series, on the third Sunday of each Thoroughbreds — are welcome in cattle month. games, too. “Whatever you have in your Pinky Cravens, of East Bridgewater, yard, you bring,” says Pinky. “It doesn’t agrees with David’s philosophy, and says have to be a Quarter Horse cow horse. ranch riding should be all about the Out West? Maybe. But not here. We don’t game, not the show. With a focus on fun draw any lines.” and on safety for the riders, horses, and David Costa, of Chipaway Stables in cattle, the atmosphere at her events, she Acushnet, also has a lighthearted attitude says, is casual. “We’re just horse-related toward ranch riding. “It’s all playful,” he people, you know? We’re not rich or any- says. “Somebody can be a businessman thing. We’re not into winning or being during the week and a cowboy on the fancy. We make a mistake, we laugh weekend. You don’t need a five-hundredabout it, and that’s the way we like to thousand-dollar horse or a ten-thousandkeep it.” dollar saddle. Anybody can do this. It’s Pinky, who got her nickname from extremely appetizing.” her trademark pink outfits, acts as an His family has always been unofficial organizer for many ranch“horsey/cow sort of people,” David says,

August/September 2013

and his stable utilizes the two types of animals to create what might be the busiest ranch-riding stable in Massachusetts. Thursday night at Chipaway is dedicated to roping practice, and team penning and team sorting run on most alternating weekends.

Ranch Riding 101 The object of team penning is for a group of three riders to move three cattle (usually yearlings weighing approximately 400 pounds) from one end of the arena to the other. The challenge is that the cattle start off in a herd of 30, three each with the numbers 0 to 9 on their necks. The game begins when the timer starts and the announcer calls out a randomly selected number, such as “Five!” “You then have to pull the three cows with that number out of the herd,” Lisa says. “And, as you know, they’re herd animals and they don’t want to go. You can’t touch that cow. Instead, you steer a cow by how you position your horse. You have to move it off the motion of your horse.” Ranch sorting is a similar contest but the competitors are rider, horse, calf, and clock. This time, however, there are only 11 cows. Again, the announcer shouts out a random number, and two mounted sorters must find the calf with that number and move it to a separate pen. Next, the riders must move each of the remaining ten cows, starting with the number called and continuing sequentially until each has been moved to a separate pen. The sorters with the best time win. Team roping is a precision speed event that, when done well, can be over in as few as ten seconds. The object is for two riders, one called the “header” and one called the “heeler,” to rope the head and hind legs of a calf, restraining it as quickly as possible. Because it’s done moving on horseback, there’s more to the challenge than simply (or not so simply, if you’ve ever tried it) throwing a lasso. “It’s knowing how to throw the rope, where the rope has got to be, and where the horse has got to be,” says David. Barrel racing, although it doesn’t involve cows, is a kick-up-the-dust demonstration of balance, reining, and speed.

“Barrel racing is pretty much everything combined — hunt seat, English pleasure, a lot of dressage, and a lot of western pleasure — and then you add speed,” says Bekah Gilmore, owner of Star Impression Riding School in Rehoboth. The horse and rider complete a cloverleaf pattern, usually around three big metal drums. The rider with the fastest time wins. The New England Stock Show Series offers five classes for the day, each modeled after the skills that true working ranch hands call upon daily. The first class, ranch pleasure, is often held up in a field rather than a riding ring because that’s where ranch horses do their work. Next, ranch trail brings horses through a natural course that includes two bridges, seasonal water, a gully, a curtain of tree limbs, and even a place to dismount and throw hay to the cattle. Ranch reining challenges horse and rider with a series of circles and stops. The working cow horse class involves driving a single cow through a series of patterns, and the final class, ranch handiness, combines elements of all of the above. The five classes take place in four divisions: Open, NonPro, Novice, and Youth.

More than Cowboying Around The majority of Bay Staters who practice ranch-riding games do so because it’s just plain fun. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. “You definitely have to do some type of clinic first to get an idea,” says Lisa. At the very least, a clinic or a lesson will increase a horse’s comfort being close enough to a cow so that it’s the cow, not the horse, that moves away. Demanding thought, precision, foresight, instinct, teamwork, and quite often a sense of humor, learning to move cattle is great for overall sportsmanship. “I believe the whole ranch-horse concept expands a horse and rider’s abilities,” says Jay Quinlan, an instructor at Heritage Farm. “There’s a lot of benefit that can come of it. Reining, trail work, western dressage, even the English disciplines all have the ability to complement a horse and rider’s unity. And that just builds up your ranch riding — the trail work, the horse learning to listen to you, being able to take guidance.” Jay recommends some patience: “Nothing we’re doing is about national security, so give it time,” he says. “It’s not about how fast you get the job done; it’s about how quiet and willing the horse is when you’re doing it. It’s about efficiency. It’s about the horsemanship.” Katie Washington, owner of Trail’s End Ranch in Onset, agrees. “I like the challenge of it. For example, barrel racing is complicated. You have to take your

Summer Wrap-up Auction August 25 Featuring a wonderful group of child-safe horses and ponies back from their summer work; ready for new homes. Preview photos posted online as auction nears. Horses available for trial August 20 to 23; all will be sold through the auction. Catalog available online after August 23.

New England Stock Horse Series August 18 . September 15 . October 20 Five individually judged classes for western and ranch broke horses. Day and series end awards.

WNEPHA Dressage Show November 3 Including western dressage!

Join our IEA Hunt Seat and Western teams! We have openings on our fun and competitive teams. All levels of riders welcome. No showing experience needed. Open to buy, sell, or trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment. Nice Horses for Nice People. Auctions . Hunter Shows . Stock Horse Shows . Dressage Shows . IEA

The Raucher Family 30 Florence Road, Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 . www.farmheritage.com

Need Hay? Quality Horse Hay Specializing in small loads of 100+ bales delivered to Hampden and Hampshire Counties. Large loads anywhere in New England. Dried-inside Round Bales.

Jay Noone (413) 222-8286 • hayjayhorses@yahoo.com local & long distance horse transportation . 4 x 6 stall mats . bagged shavings Massachusetts Horse

Chipaway Stables offers

Trailer Sales We don’t go to Equine Affaire so we have everyday low prices. New and Used Trailers!

Horse & Pony Sales

time. You have to think about it. You have to know your horse.” Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center in Grafton, says Sheila Brady, “is really a stereotypical hunt-seat barn. We go to shows. We have an IEA team, but under the surface, all of our riders ride western. It’s relaxing.” Hillside Meadows holds monthly versatility events and periodic cow sortings, but, Sheila says, “we focus mainly on reining. It’s a little bit like dressage where you get the horse to do a roll back, a stop, turning quickly in circles. It’s very precise movements, essentially.” Hillside Meadows is holding intro-

ductory lessons on working with cows Saturday evenings through August 24. “You can help your horse acclimate to cattle slowly,” say Sheila. “Horses can take as much time as needed adjusting to prop and real cattle.” One-on-one and group sessions will be available on your own horse. “Move at your own pace and work toward attending one of the sorting events this fall,” says Sheila. Star Impression Riding School also teaches ranch sorting and penning, as well as reining, barrel racing, and versatility. Bekah, whose family comes from southern Texas, loves seeing the wide variety of Massachusetts equestrians who

We specialize in horse trading. We can match an owner with the perfect horse just about every time! From Western Pleasure to Trail, Driving to Cutting, we have a great selection that will please any equestrian.

Tack Shop Brands we carry

Ranch Supplies stall mats . feed tubs . bunk feeders round pens . wire panels . gates square bale feeders . stock tubs swing gates . field wire . fences . stalls

Grain . Hay . Shavings

Abady Alpo Blue Seal Canidae Diamond Eukanuba Friskies Iams Kaytee Merrick Natural Balance Nature’s Recipe Neura Nutrena Nutro Wysong Old Mother Hubbard Pedigree Pinnacle

Poulin Precise Pro Plan Purina Purina Mills Science Diet Sensible Choice Solid Gold Triple Crown Triumph Wellness Whiskas Wild and caged bird and small animal feed. Kakadu Oilskin Coats.

Country Corral Paper or plastic bags for shavings. Wood Pellet Bedding Quality hay from Canada and New York first and second cut timothy to alfalfa. Roping Practices Thursday Evenings Team Penning August 3 & 31, September 2, 14, 28 Team Sorting August 10 & 24, September 7 & 21

Dave Costa, owner/operator 132 Quaker Ln. Acushnet 508-763-5158 www.chipawaystables.com 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M., 7 days a week 22

August/September 2013

35 Main St., rear, Rte. 9, Williamsburg, MA (413) 268-0180 countrycorral@aol.com M-F 9:30AM - 5:30PM, Sat 9:30AM - 4:00PM Right behind A-1 Hilltown Pizza in Williamsburg center.

Relaxed, safe, clean environment. Superior horse care. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Full board stalls available. 140' x 65' indoor arena 180' x 90' outdoor arena grass turnout . 24-hour security kitchen . miles of trails Contact Darlene for a tour!

468 Old Coldbrook Rd., Barre Tashjian Family serenityhillstable@verizon.net

are trying, and falling in love with, some of the western sports. “I’m so glad that a lot of seats and a lot of disciplines, ages, and levels are getting out there and getting rid of the misconception that it’s just western riders who can do this,” she says. Pinky Cravens sums up the appeal of ranch riding: “We all want to be cowboys,” she says. “That’s the thing.” Join the Fun! Looking to watch or even participate in a western ranch-riding event in your area? Here’s a sample of upcoming shows and programs.

Insurance Made Easy! can We sure in ge now up to a ajor ses hor ith m 20 w edical! m

Competetive Rates & Great Service

Equine ~ Farms Mortality • Major Medical & Surgical Farm Packages (Auto & Home)

Horse Associations & Clubs . Director & Officer Coverage Horse Shows, Clinics, Expo Coverage . Instructor’s Liability

Chipaway Stables, Acushnet, chipawaystables.com Roping practices: every Thursday evening Team penning: August 3, August 31, September 2, September 14, September 28 Team sorting: August 10, August 24, September 7, September 21 Heritage Farm, Easthampton, farmheritage.com New England Stock Horse Show Series: August 18, September 15, October 20, November 17 Supervised working cow practices by appointment Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center, Grafton hillside-meadows.com Sorting competitions: October 6, October 27, November 17 Versatility event: September 14

Sorting Competitions October 6 October 27 November 17

Versatility Event September 14

Insure Your Equine Partner with a Leading Equine Agent! We provide you wtih competetive rates, educated servcie, and help substantiate values. Payment plans are available. Call for a no-hassle, free quote.

www.donrayinsurance.com Call Terri Ray today! Terri is a horse owner showing locally & nationally.

(781) 837-6550 terriray@donrayinsurance.com Marshfield, MA

Introductory Working with Cows Lessons

Come see why we are Grafton’s hidden gem!

Saturday Evenings August 3, 10, 17, and 24 • Help your horse acclimate to cattle slowly. • Horses can take as much time as they need adjusting to prop and real cattle. • One on one session or group sessions on your own horse. • Move at your own pace, and work toward attending a sorting event

Champion IEA teams Beautiful 70-acre multi-disciplined fullboarding facility with two indoor arenas. Lessons in huntseat, reining, cow work, and dressage; all levels. Schooling shows on proptery. Coaching at large rated shows. On-site open shows.

Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center Grafton, Massachusetts . manager@hillside-meadows.com (508) 243-8044 . www.hillside-meadows.com Massachusetts Horse

Foxhunting

right lead

In the Bay State

by Holly Jacobson and Stephanie Sanders-Ferris The Right Lead offers advice and tips from your neighbors and friends. Horse professionals from all walks of life will help you find the right lead.

jump. Many hunts work closely with landconservation organizations. Subscribers are members of the hunt, and they can ride in all meets and participate in all other activities and events. Patrons support the hunt but don’t actually ride, although they may participate

courtesy of Myopia Hunt

ike an old English print come to life, foxhunting is alive and well in the Bay State, and you’ll find the experience welcoming and exhilarating. If you’ve ever longed to gallop across the countryside, hack out with the hounds, or enjoy a good tailgate breakfast, there are four established clubs in Massachusetts and a few others that have hunt territory in the state. The Myopia Hunt, Norfolk Hunt, and Old North Bridge Hounds are members of the Masters of Foxhounds Association; the Nashoba Valley Hunt is the fourth Massachusetts club. Aside from the pageantry of red-coated riders and horses and hounds hurtling through the woods over stone Myopia Hunt. walls and chicken coops, these clubs are dedicated to keeping open in other events. Cappers don’t subscribe space intact for everyone. but are able to ride in hunts. All four clubs practice drag hunts — Spring roading introduces hounds, that is, hunts with no live quarry. A line riders, and horses to the hunt at a quiof scent is laid for the hounds to hunt, eter pace, in that there’s no scent to foland this showcases the artistry of training low. Summer hound exercise focuses on conand hunting foxhounds and provides tinued training of the hounds. many opportunities to view them at work. During cubbing, which is preseason Many hunt clubs offer beginner clin- hunting that teaches young hounds to ics and other activities for both adults work within a pack, a scent is laid. and juniors. You don’t even need to ride Hounds, riders, and horses are still or have a horse to join the fun and improving their fitness for the formal excitement. hunting season, when the hunts are Following the hunt on horseback, on longer and faster. foot, or by car is a great way to get to There are usually two fields (groups know the local hunt. From hunt balls to of riders) during a hunt — a jumping hunter paces, from tea parties and field and a hilltopping field, for those who brunches to the blessing of the hounds prefer to observe. and puppies, the network is a social one. The master of foxhounds (MFH) is Riding to hounds is all about responsible for and governs all aspects of camaraderie. the hunt, determines the route it will follow, and instructs the huntsman. The Foxhunting Basics MFH also designates field masters and When you ride to the hounds, you’re folwhippers-in (see below). lowing a well-bred pack across beautiful The huntsman selects and breeds foxcountry, and tradition and structure are hounds to establish an effective drag essential components of the experience. pack — that is, those that will follow a Hunts ride at the courtesy of its scent rather than a fox. The huntsman landowners, who invite the hunt to use maintains the kennel and provides all the their fields and trails and often allow the care; trains the hounds to respect his placement of fences for the horses to commands, stay gathered around him,

August/September 2013

follow the scent, and ignore other scents; and to hunt and to return to the huntsman upon command. The huntsman also lays the scent and instructs the hounds to spread out and find it. Whippers-in generally ride close to the hounds but go where they’re needed: to aid the huntsman by slowing or turning the hounds, for example, or to direct the hounds back to the scent or huntsman. The jumping field master follows the huntsman and leads those who opt to jump, ensures that the field does not interfere with the hounds or the huntsman, and stays directly behind the huntsman but may decide to take the field on a slightly different route from that of the hounds to protect the land or fellow jumpers. This person must know the territory well, as she leads the field over the hunt fences and knows which jumps and footing are safe. The hilltopping field master leads those who go at a slower pace. He may position the hilltopping field to be able to view the hounds at work. The landowners are crucial, as it’s their generosity that allows the hunt to take place on their property, and they often construct and maintain the jumps. It’s common courtesy for every member of the hunt to greet landowners, and to thank them warmly. Each hunt has its own etiquette and protocol, as well as designated attire for both cubbing and the formal hunting season. You’ll find the hunt’s fixture card online with the dates of events for the season. For some exciting videos, go to YouTube.com and type in the name of one of the Massachusetts hunt clubs.

Myopia Hunt South Hamilton, myopiahunt.com Joint Masters of Foxhounds: Kim Cutler and Ted Mehm The Myopia Hunt Club, founded in 1882 by J. Murray Forbes, has more than 100 subscribers, who are encouraged to join the Essex County Trail Association and

the Trustees of Reservations at Appleton Farms, as the hunt uses their trails, which are open to members only. Kim Cutler says she highly recommends the summer hound exercise for those who’d like to try hunting or riding in the country in a group. This season it will be held Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8 A.M. “The hound exercise is much looser than are the formal hunts,” says Kim. “It’s a great opportunity for a new person or horse to get closer to the hounds and ride in a crowd.” Dress is informal. The ride, designed for people who feel confident at the walk, trot, and a controlled canter, lasts about an hour. Kim advises riders not to wait until fall but instead to come out in the spring during roading and in the summer for hound exercise. “Come out early,” she says, as the season is a progression and rides get longer and faster. Myopia Stable, which operates separately from the Myopia Hunt, has horses to lease. It’s also offering its Learn-toHunt Program, which consists of private lessons, country lessons, unmounted clinics with hunt staff, summer hound exercises, a fall roading hunt, and the formal hunt. Visit myopiastable.com for details. There are opening meets for juniors, and children can be led by an unmounted individual to get a feel for the hunt. Myopia encourages juniors to show the puppies, and reaches out to Pony Clubs that offer kennel tours and education. Kim says she loves that kids and adults from different barns can come together and share the experience. “The hunt is infectious,” she says. “We greet everyone with open arms.” This year Myopia will hold its 113thannual Myopia Horse Show, a spring hunter pace, a fall hunter trial, and the New England Hound Show.

Norfolk Hunt Dover, norfolkhunt.com Joint Masters of Foxhounds: Owen P. Hughes and Carol Mansfield Associate: MFH Ruth Lawler Established in 1895 by a polo group seeking to stay fit in the off-season, Norfolk Hunt is one of the oldest registered foxhunts in the nation. The club began in Dedham, then moved to Dover in 1903. The Norfolk Hunt rides in the Charles River Watershed area, which has more than 200 miles of trails and 300 jumps. Not all 170 members ride, but those who’ve joined in the past five years are among the regulars who are out every Tuesday and Saturday.

HORSES SMAll AnIMAlS ExOTICS ACUpUnCTURE CHIROpRACTIC HOMEOpATHy pHySICAl THERApy

HOUSE CAllS. FUll-SERvICE SMAll-AnIMAl HOSpITAl. GROOMInG, pET SUpplIES.

FAMIly vETERInARy CEnTER BUd AllEn, M.S., d.v.M., ROBIn KARlIn AllEn, d.v.M. 99 MAIn ST. (RTE. 9) HAydEnvIllE, MA (413) 268-vETS • FAMvETS.COM • InFO@FAMvETS.COM “We attract new foxhunters because we offer four fields on Saturdays and holidays,” says Joint MFH Carol Mansfield. “The hilltop field usually walks and trots, often taking shortcuts while still being able to watch the hounds work. At these gaits, riders can make sure their horses’ behavior is appropriate without fear of a runaway.” After a few times riding in the hilltop field, most people are ready to move up to one of the other three fields — first flight, pick and choose, and flats (nonjumping). “All four fields are led by an experienced field master,” says Carol. “The field master leading the first flight is usually a joint MFH.” Norfolk Hunt Pony Club members have joined in the junior hunt. Several have ridden with the Norfolk Hunt and earned their Pony Club foxhunting certificate. Norfolk encourages youngsters to ride with the club, and there are often children in their hilltop field. “For new people,” says Carol, “I ask that they come without a horse to meet me and the others. This way they can get an idea of how the hunt functions. Newcomers are always welcome to watch. If you’d like to ride, contact one of the masters first. By asking a few questions, we

Natural Balance Equine Dentistry Restoring Motion through Balance in the Equine Mouth Improved Topline and Performance, Increased Flexion

Horses . Ponies . Minis . Donkeys Wendy Bryant, EQDT (413)237-8887 . w-bryant@comcast.net www.wbryantnaturalbalancedentistry.com Certified practitioner in Natural Balance Dentistry®. Trained under Spencer Laflure of Advanced Whole Horse Dentistry Learning Center.

. . . continued on page 38

Massachusetts Horse

sEvenstride Ltd. sStoneleigh-Burnham School

sNashoba Valley Sliders

Century Mill Stables s

sFox Meadow Farm at Smith College Williston Fuller s King Oak Farm s s Mount Holyoke College

sVolo Farm sNashoba Valley Equestrian

sMaplewood Farm sLLF Equestrian sRising Star Equestrian Center sStonecroft Farm

Massachusetts

Woodsong Farm s

Interscholastic Equestrian Association Teams by Stephanie Sanders-Ferris

n 2012, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) celebrated its 10year anniversary. Its mission is to introduce students in middle and high school to equestrian sports, and to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction. Through the IEA, students have the opportunity to earn scholarships toward their college education through awards in competition and sportsmanship activities. The IEA season runs September 15 to the national finals, in May for hunt seat in West Springfield and in June for western at the National Reining Horse Association Derby in Oklahoma City. Last year there were 93 hunt-seat teams and six western teams in Massachusetts alone. In all of New England (Zone 1), there were 195 hunt-seat teams and 10 western.

Horse Ownership Not Required The unique aspect of IEA competitions, at both the local level and the national, is that none of the riders supplies her or his own horse or tack. Instead, students get the horse, saddle, and other tack at the show: Horses are chosen by a random draw. Though the rider and horse have a short opportunity to orient themselves just prior to the over-fences classes, the horse is new to the rider in all other classes, and there’s no warm-up time before entering the competition area. “Everybody’s equal,” says 14-year-old Aoife McBride, of Leeds, who’s starting her third year on the Heritage Farm IEA hunt-seat team, which operates in Easthampton. “No one is riding the per26

August/September 2013

fect horse in every class. We get what we draw and have to ride it to the best of our ability. “Being able to go to a show without a horse is great,” she says. “It’s much less stressful — not having to worry about whether your horse will get on the trailer at five o’clock in the morning or if your white horse rolled in manure the night before.” “In addition to the fun everyone has on an IEA team, participation provides riders interested in riding for an Intercollegiate Horse Show Association [IHSA] team the chance to become familiar and proficient with the [randomdraw] format,” says Woodsong Farm IEA coach Greta Avery. “Team participation requires riders to expand their skills and learn to participate on a variety of types of horses, from lazy and dull to hot and sensitive. The competition format also requires riders to remain focused and do their very best each time they step into the show ring. Because riders are limited to five shows per season, there’s little room for distraction.” Miranda Tollefson, 14, of Lancaster, has been riding on the Century Mill IEA team for three years. “One of my favorite parts of IEA is having the ability to figure out a horse at that moment you find out you’re riding him,” she says, “and figuring him out enough to perform your best.”

Levels of Competition In hunt-seat competitions, there are five over-fences classes with fences no higher than three feet and numerous flat equi-

tation classes. Western riders show in horsemanship and reining. Both disciplines offer a variety of ability levels — beginner, novice, intermediate, and open. Middle school teams are for riders in grades six to eight; upper school teams are for riders in grades nine to 12. The scores are based on horsemanship and equitation, not the horse. Each rider can compete in a maximum of five shows a year and, depending on her ability, one or two classes per show. Points are tracked for individual riders’ accomplishments as well as team performance — earning points to qualify for regional, zone, and national finals. In hunt seat, riders and teams qualify to compete at regional, zone, and national competitions — narrowing down the field to those few invited to the IEA Hunt Seat National Finals. In zone 1, qualifying western riders and teams compete in the zone competition and then go onto the Western IEA National Finals. “In the 2012–2013 season, I went all the way to IEA hunt-seat nationals,” says Aoife. “I had to qualify through multiple other levels and had some tough competition, especially at zones. When I arrived at Nationals, with people from barns all over the country, it didn’t matter to me how I placed, or if I even placed at all. I was so proud of myself; I made it to Nationals.” “Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center has hosted the IEA Hunt Seat Zone 1 Finals for many years,” says Tara Matthews, IEA Zone 1, Region 7 president and Mount Holyoke College IEA team coach. “Zones is almost completely

run by the students — a wonderful experience for students/riders who want to further their education and careers in management and marketing.” The IEA also offers saddle-seat compeition but currently there are no teams in Massachusetts.

How Much Does It Cost? Less than owning a horse! Each rider must annually join the IEA — for the 2013–2014 school year, the membership fee is $45. Coaches and teams must also pay membership fees to the nonprofit IEA. Most IEA teams have a set number of required weekly riding lessons. At the shows, the entry fee per class ranges from $30 to $45. Riders pay a coaching fee at each show as well. The IEA offers financial assistance; visit rideiea.org to download the forms. “IEA provides riders at all levels with an inexpensive showing opportunity, accessibility to national-level goals, and scholarships,” says Greta. “Riders who might not otherwise be able to do so in a traditional show environment have a realistic opportunity to set their sights on qualifying for and competing in a regional or national final. Additionally, riders can develop leadership skills and expand horsemanship skills through active, hands-on participation in all aspects of horse-show preparation and manage-

ment, team fund-raising, and horsemanship exams.” “On my team, everyone likes each other,” says Aoife. “Our coach, Alli [Allison Guerin], is amazing. Being on the IEA team is a great way to make new friends.” “IEA has taught me that when I have to wake up before dawn, I know it’s going to be a good day,” says Miranda. “The most important part of IEA is not the color of the ribbon you win but how well you feel after you leave the ring, how well you think you’ve done to fix your weakest points.” And team means camaraderie: “I’ve found friends on the Century Mill IEA team I’ll have for the rest of my life,” says Miranda.

Find a Local Team Note: Openings are as of the end of July. CENTURY MILL STABLES, BOLTON (978) 779-2934; centurymillstables.com hunt seat; middle and upper “The IEA team is a family with many team events and fun outings,” says IEA coach Liz Kleinfeld. “We have riders from every background who all band together to have a great time. The IEA team is a welcoming crew with a format designed to build friendships as well as solid skills

, tions ratula your Cong n o , a Monik lace finish ! hp fourt nationals at IEA

Hillside Meadows offers both Hunt Seat and Western IEA teams. The Hillside Meadows hunt seat upper and middle school teams are coached by Sheila Brady and the western uppper and middle school teams are coached by Amber Woodruff.

Join the Hillside Meadows IEA Teams!

Come see why we are Grafton’s hidden gem! Champion IEA teams Beautiful 70-acre multi-disciplined fullboarding facility with two indoor arenas. Lessons in huntseat, reining, cow work, and dressage; all levels. Schooling shows on proptery. Coaching at large rated shows. On-site open shows, ranch sorting.

Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center Grafton, Massachusetts . manager@hillside-meadows.com (508) 243-8044 . www.hillside-meadows.com Massachusetts Horse

Ron Ernenwein

team, she’s competed successfully at local — sportsmanship, horsemanship, strategy, Scott Laffey provides great insights as an assistant coach: He’s a USEF-rated “r” and teamwork.” USEF-rated shows in the jumper ring. judge for hunters and hunt-seat equiLiz is a graduate of the University of Her diverse background with multiple tation and has been a trainer for seven Findlay and has extensive IHSA riding instructors in different disciplines gives years. experience, including winning the her the ability to help her students meet Scott’s proud of the team’s record: National Championship title in 2004. all of their individual goals. “Evenstride Ltd. has had multiple individShe’s been teaching and riding profes“Fox Meadow Farm IEA riders have ual and team regional and zone qualisionally since graduating and has already the opportunity to ride with outstanding fiers,” he says. coached riders to wins at regionals and trainers at the Smith College Equestrian Evenstride Ltd. currently has openzones and strong showings at Nationals. Center,” Sue says. “Not only do riders ings on its team. Riders don’t Liz has also earned accoreceive a great experience showing and try out for a spot. lades at rated horse team bonding, but they also expand their “We require one lesson a shows, such as the 2010 knowledge of horsemanship and sportsweek whether you ride with us Vermont Summer Festival manship, and help support and learn or continue lessons with your Circuit Championship, in from the Smith College both the 1-meter and IHSA team.” IEA team 1.10-meter jumpers. members participate in The IEA team has the required two lessons qualified riders and/or per week. teams through to “Our IEA team was Nationals the last three established last year and years. “We’re equally is growing quickly,” says proud of our riders’ other Sue. “With only four ridaccomplishments,” says ers on our middle Liz, “from overcoming school team, we were show-ring nerves to learnchampion at our second ing to apply their skills to a show and we had two variety of horse personaliriders compete in ties both in the saddle and regionals. We currently on the ground. have one spot open on “We’re always accepting our upper school team.” new riders of any level,” she says. “Riders take an evaluaKING OAK FARM tion lesson to make sure SOUTHAMPTON they’re a good fit for our (413) 527-4454; program and to make sure kingoakfarm.com they’re at an appropriate level to ride IEA; there hunt seat; middle and aren’t any formal tryouts, upper though.” One lesson a week is Inset: Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center’s western IEA coach Amber Woodruff with Monika King Oak Farm’s IEA required for most classes; for Ernenwein, 18, at the IEA Western Nationals in June. Above: Monika placed fourth in the coach, Kelley Breck, those jumping at least two nation in Individual Varsity Open Reining and earned a $500 scholarship. She also competes began riding as a young feet, it’s two lessons a week. on her Thoroughbred jumper, Company Jett, in the Training Jumpers and on her warmblood, child and had her first The recommendation, how- Quintess, in the Junior Medals and Medal Maclay. horse by age seven. She ever, is twice-a-week lessons grew up competing in hunters, jumpers, current trainer,” says Scott. “There’s one for all team riders. and equitation. As a teen, Kelley rode mandatory practice per month for IEA “Century Mill Stables head trainer with the renowned horseman Ronnie team members. We do prefer our riders Jai Rezac and I work together to develop Mutch, whose methods of riding, trainto take more than one lesson a week if winning strategies for the team,” says Liz. ing, and teaching she uses every day. possible. Our team has a lot of fun. The “Our supportive methods help develop “We’re accepting riders at all levels different experiences of each coach help our students for success both inside and on both teams,” says parent volunteer outside the show ring — we teach the val- to build well-rounded riders and thus a Amy Brown, whose 14-year-old daughter well-rounded team.” ues of self-confidence, leadership, and is on the team. “Riders don’t have to try teamwork.” out for a spot — everyone is accepted. FOX MEADOW FARM AT SMITH COLLEGE Members take one lesson per week. NORTHAMPTON EVENSTRIDE LTD., BYFIELD “Riders on the King Oak Farm IEA (413) 585-2734; spayne@smith.edu (978) 465-9119; evenstrideltd.com team have the opportunity to expand hunt seat; middle and upper hunt seat; middle and upper their equitation and horsemanship skills Catherine Adams is Fox Meadow Farm’s by riding a variety of horses on a regular Evenstride’s head coach, Olana Laffey, IEA coach. “She has a versatile backbasis,” says Amy. “In addition, IEA team brings more than 30 years of experience ground encompassing everything from members have the chance to show often in training equitation and hunter/ dressage to jumpers,” says Sue Payne, throughout the fall and winter season. In jumper riders. Assistant coach Andrea director of riding and Intercollegiate summer and during school breaks, the Mank has been a trainer for 10 years. A Horse Show Association (IHSA) team farm offers an IEA day camp specifically graduate of Mount Holyoke College, she coach. “In addition to her accomplishtailored to team members.” was active with the IHSA team there. ments on the UMass Amherst IHSA 28

August/September 2013

LFF EQUESTRIAN, LIL’ FOLK FARM RIDING ACADEMY, HOLLISTON (508) 420-1700; lilfolkfarm.com hunt seat; middle and upper “We were very excited to start our first IEA team last year and bring something new to our older riders,” says Lil’ Folk Farm Riding Academy owner Nancy Dubin. “And in our first year competing in the IEA, we had a rider earn a spot at regionals. Nancy gives much of the credit to her staff. “Our head coach, Courtney MacNeil, has been riding and showing for twenty years. She not only loves all aspects of teaching, but she also brings a depth of knowledge. Courtney is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University, where she competed on the IHSA team. Assistant coach and barn manager Mallory Nadel has been riding for eighteen years.” Mallory is also a graduate of Johnson and Wales. “LFF Equestrian Team has openings on both middle and upper school teams, and riders must try out for a spot. We do this so we know the best class to place them in and so we don’t have too many riders in the same division,” says Nancy. “Riders are in a weekly IEA practice lesson as well as one regular lesson. If they’re riding under another trainer, they can continue to ride with that person and just participate in the IEA practice lesson with us. “We have a variety of ponies and horses at our farm, so our riders are able to experience lots of different equines to prepare them for the challenges of the draw at an IEA show,” she says. MAPLEWOOD FARM, BERLIN (978) 838-2119; maplewoodfarm.com hunt seat; middle and upper Maplewood Farm’s IEA co-coach Alexandra Robbie has ridden to several championships at top East Coast shows and is captain of the Becker College ISHA team, for which she had several top finishes. Maplewood Farm owner Tamara Johnston also co-coaches the IEA team, which she established nine years ago. “Maplewood Farm IEA riders consistently qualify for regionals, zones, and nations,” says Tamara. Riders can take as many lessons as they’d like at the reduced rate for IEA team members but are required to take one lesson a week. “IEA riders get more than one perspective on their performance with two coaches,” says Tamara. “Maplewood Farm has several quality lesson horses at all levels for riders, and this enables us to specialize in walk trot to three-foot, six-inch equitation.” Most les-

sons have two or three riders per group, which means students learn from each other but don’t get lost in a large group. Maplewood Farm has openings at all levels on its middle and upper school hunt-seat teams. MOUNT HOLYOKE COLLEGE, SOUTH HADLEY tblynch@mtholyoke.edu; mhciea.tumblr.com hunt seat; middle and upper The riding program at the Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center consists of a nationally ranked IHSA huntseat team, an Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) team, an IHSA western team, a community riding program, and middle and upper school IEA hunt-seat teams. IEA team coach Tara Mathews is going into her third year of coaching at Mount Holyoke. She began riding at a very young age, and since then has competed at the nation’s top levels in equitation. Tara won the Cacchione Cup while enrolled at the University of Connecticut and competed in the IHSA National Championships for four years. “The Mount Holyoke College IEA team has consecutively qualified for regional every year since 2011,” says Tara. “In addition, qualifiers have advanced to

zones, and several riders have competed at nationals. “In the past, the team has been available only to high school students,” she says. “This year we’re proud to offer openings on a middle school team.” Riders must contact Tara to schedule a tryout. “The tryouts are forty-five minutes to an hour. During this period we see the interaction between a prospective rider and the coach,” she says. Informative meetings are also available for families who’d like the details. “What makes our team unique is that we’re sponsored by a college,” says Tara. “This means we have the privilege to ride among some of the country’s most outstanding college riders on a variety of horses.” Team practices are mandatory in order to compete, and take place once a week. “Riders on the team have the advantage of summer leases during the Mount Holyoke College summer IEA program on top equitation and hunter horses; access to college information and college coaches affiliated with and well respected in the IHSA and the IDA; involvement and participation in the Equestrian Talent Search; and scholarships, letters of recommendation, and sportsmanship awards,” says Tara.

to join the

The Wachusett Equestrian Team accomodates riders of all levels. No need to own your own horse or have any show experience. If you are in grades 6 to 12, and want to be part of this fun and successful team in Rutland, call coach Geralyn Szczurko at (508) 887-1744. Massachusetts Horse

NASHOBA VALLEY EQUESTRIAN Harmony Horse Stables, Littleton (978) 486-8360; harmonyhillstables.com hunt seat; middle and upper

Join the

King Oak Farm IEA Teams! Friendly, family-oriented, fun team! Coach Kelley Breck rode with Ronnie Mutch and has been with King Oak Farm for 14 years. IEA team members benefit from Kelley’s instruction, the expansive King Oak Farm facility, and well-schooled horses.

For more information, visit KingOakFarm.com or call (413) 527-4454 183 College Hwy., Southampton, Mass.

Join our IEA High School Team! Our highly successful Middle School Team also has a few openings.

Come train at one of the finest facilities in western Massachusetts, expand your horsemanship skills, and bond with other riders who share your passion for horses, riding, and showing! For more information, email spayne@smith.edu.

Courtney Killmon brings 25 years of riding experience to her role as IEA coach for the Nashoba Valley Equestrian Team. She grew up in the hunter ring and competing in children’s medals. Courtney attended Meredith Manor International Riding School and is a Riding Master 3 graduate. In the 2012–2013 season — its first year as a team — Nashoba Valley IEA sent riders to regionals, zones, and nationals. The team has some openings. Riders must try out, and once on the team are required to take a minimum of one lesson and one practice ride each week. “Our riders have a unique opportunity at Harmony Horse Stables, as we’re mainly an eventing facility that takes pride in having diverse riders,” says Courtney. “We have a very fun, wellorganized, and strong team that’s looking for a few new riders.” NASHOBA VALLEY SLIDERS White Oak Farm, Pepperell (978) 835-0465; whiteoakfarm@charter.net western; middle and upper White Oak Farm is a balanced-seat facility for both English and western riders. IEA team coach Suzanne Ferris, MS, has been teaching for more than 30 years and emphasizes sportsmanship and horsemanship. “IEA riders are required to take one lesson per week if they’re showing only in a horsemanship class,” says Suzanne, “two lessons each week if they’re also showing in a reining class. We have openings at all levels, including beginner, in which riders can have little or no show experience. They try out for class placement in horsemanship. The opportunity to ride in reining classes is available for those who have some experience.” In the 2012–2013 season, all White Oak Farm IEA riders who competed in the maximum five shows qualified for zones. The team as a whole qualified as well. “We have an experienced upper school team with several IEA national finalists remaining on the team for this season,” says Suzanne. RISING STAR EQUESTRIAN CENTER, MEDWAY (508) 533-8551 risingstarequestriancenter.com hunt seat and western; middle and upper

Northampton, Massachusetts 30

August/September 2013

The Rising Star IEA teams are coached by owner Kathleen Haas Ogonowski and Ashleigh Henderson Stewart.

“We have a fleet of very sweet and talented school horses and ponies available for lessons,” says Kathleen. “Team members are required to take two lessons per week. We offer a fun, professional education with a proven track record.” Team members have placed individually at the Hunt Seat National Finals, including the 2009 National Open Varsity Championship Rider. The team was the 2007 National Hunt Seat Middle School Reserve Champions and the National Hunt Seat Upper School Reserve Champions in 2008. STONECROFT FARM, WEST BRIDGEWATER (508) 245-3432; ridestonecroft.com hunt seat; middle and upper “Stonecroft Farm is a horse provider for IEA shows and local IHSA shows,” says farm manager and IEA coach Karen Douglas. “Our pony Caramel Delight was inducted into the IEA Hall of Fame at zones this year. He’s always a good, honest draw for the riders and he can work in the open division and the beginner divisions.” Caramel Delight came from the New Holland Auction, in Pennsylvania. “Our riders have the opportunity to ride horses that will be provided to the shows as well as others at our farm,” says Karen. Karen rode on the 1975 IHSA UMass team when it won finals and was the Cacchione rider (high-point rider for the region). “After college,” she says, “I continued to show in dressage and eventing and then moved into the hunter/jumper arena.” Most of their students move onto regionals. “The entire high school team made it one year,” says Karen, “and a few of our riders qualified for zones and one make it to the nationals.” Stonecroft Farm has openings on its middle and upper school teams. IEA riders are required to take a minimum of one lesson per week with Karen. STONELEIGH-BURNHAM SCHOOL GREENFIELD (413) 773-8333; mbennett@sbschool.org hunt seat; middle and upper The great variety of horses for IEA lessons and shows makes the Stoneleigh-Burnham team an attractive one to join. “We offer a riding program for students who attend the school as well as a community riding program for riders outside of the school,” says co-coach Marilyn Bennett. All three coaches — Marilyn Bennet, Mina Williams, and George Halkett — have extensive experience working with IEA teams. Stoneleigh-Burnham was one of the original IEA teams and boasts four consecutive national titles.

IEA coach Jen Phelan has been involved with horses for 22 years. She’s a graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy and received her bachelor’s degree in equine science from the University of New Hampshire. In 2006 Jen joined Volo Farm. “Fun, laughter, and humor are important to me when I teach,” says Jen, “but I have very high standards for correct equitation and good riding.” Jen has attended IEA nationals with Volo Farm IEA riders the past two years and is pleased with the hard-earned awards they brought home. The Volo Farm team has been represented at the national finals every year since 2006, when the team was established. Volo Farm has some openings. Riders interested in joining the team should set up an evaluation lesson with Jen. “Riders don’t need to try out for a spot,” she says, “but they must ride at a certain level to be considered for the team.” Team members ride under instruction twice per week; many do some work at the farm to earn credits toward extra lessons or practice rides, Jen says. WILLISTON FULLER, WESTHAMPTON Fuller’s Horse Facility (413) 527-0328; carful@comcast.net hunt seat; middle and upper Fuller’s Horse Facility is the home of the Williston Fuller hunt-seat middle and upper school teams. Team coach and facility owner Carolyn Fuller Coggins has been teaching for 35 years. “The Williston Fuller team’s going into their eleventh year of IEA competition,” she says. “I’ve coached students to numerous team championships, and our riders have consistently qualified for regionals, zones, and nationals.” Riders take advantage of Laura Cranston’s 21 years of instruction experience when Carolyn is unavailable for lessons. Laura has been the assistant coach for six years. “Students on the Williston Fuller

Kit Cat Photograhpy

VOLO FARM, WESTFORD (978) 692-7060; volofarm.com hunt seat; middle and upper

It’s time for fun!

It’s time to be professional.

It’s time to ride at Century Mill!

Kit Cat Photograhpy

“We have an information session for everyone interested in riding on the team,” says Marilyn. “After the meeting we have tryouts, at which the coaches evaluate the riders and we consider what divisions each rider is qualified for.” Riders who make the team must take at least one lesson per week with one of the IEA coaches. “We also occasionally hold team practices, and everyone is required to be there,” says Marilyn.

Competitive teams emphasizing Horsemanship, Sportsmanship, Strategy, and Team Work. Team and/or Individuals qualified for National Finals last three years! Bolton, Mass. • 978-779-2934 • www.centurymillstables.com Contact Liz at liz@centurymillstables.com for more information!

teams benefit from the required two lessons per week in a small group with intense instruction,” says Carolyn. “Every member gets to show at every show the teams attend. At Fuller’s, says Carolyn, “students benefit from practicing on horses with diverse riding challenges. This helps them become well-rounded riders when being challenged by the various horses they’ll draw at IEA shows.” Williston Fuller is open to new members, and riders are encouraged to try out,” says Carolyn. WOODSONG FARM, BREWSTER (508) 896-5800; woodsongfarm.com hunt seat; middle and upper Woodsong’s resident trainer and IEA coach Greta Avery has shown, trained, and coached hunters, jumpers, and equitation horses and riders at some of the nation’s most prestigious shows, from the Northeast to Florida, for more than 30 years. “The Woodsong Farm team is headed into its third year this September,” says Greta. “This past season six of the sevenmember team qualified for regionals and the seventh rider was just one point shy. Four riders went on to compete in zones. Although our riders didn’t move on to

nationals, they brought home the award for the Most Helpful Team. “We welcome all riders who meet the minimum riding-level requirements for IEA competition,” she says, “regardless of the number of riders at a given level who want to participate. The majority of our team are students who regularly ride at Woodsong Farm, but we welcome everyone. Riders are not required to be, or become, regular clients of Woodsong Farm in order to participate on our team. “As a team, we practice two days a month from September through finals,” Greta says. “Team practices are designed to complement, not replace, regular riding lessons. Individually, riders are expected to be in a regular lesson program.” The hope is that they’ll have at least one lesson a week. To learn more about the IEA, view a complete listing of Massachusetts teams, and see how to create a new team, visit rideiea.org.

Massachusetts Horse

lend a hoof South Egremont

Blue Rider Stables

by Alessandra Mele

of some 40 volunteers a year, 100 therapy n 1911 Germany, a group of expresstudents connect with 16 equines on a sionist artists sought freedom from regular basis; 400 riders are touched by the societal expectations and conventhe program through a combination of tions that had been placed on art for lessons, camps, and workshops. centuries. For Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Christine’s view that anything is posMarc, and other visual artists, this break sible with perseverance and dedication with tradition took the form of blue horses. The horse and the color blue car- stems from her upbringing. People with special needs were a part of her life early ried heavy symbolic value: the painters aimed to express spiritual and mythical aspects of art important to them. Using abstraction, experimentation, and intuition, members of the movement known as Der Blaue Reiter (the Blue Rider) Participants and volunteers in the Blue Rider Stables Circus. opened up modes of artistic expression to allow for on, as her parents ran the Camphill imagination. Village residential program for specialSince 1991, a similar revolution has needs adults. She witnessed how lives been taking place in the Berkshires at could be enriched, and what the people Blue Rider Stables. Founder Charles were capable of. Christine notes the “Chip” Carlson III, an artist himself, has sense of inclusion she developed: “They carried the ideals of the German expreswere never labeled when we lived with sionists to his stable, creating a place them, they were just part of our lives.” where people can interact with horses in Christine’s own interest in horses a more flexible, liberated way. The result was something her parents encouraged is a harmonious environment in which a and fostered, despite some early obstadeep connection between horse and cles. “I had asthma when I was little, and human mutually heals and empowers. my parents were told to keep me away from hay, animals, and dust — all the Anything Is Possible triggers that would cause a reaction,” The beginnings of the program were Christine remembers. “My parents let me small but promising. With four horses have animals, and I found the horses and ten riders, the operation took root down the street to work with. My parents on leased land. The belief that everyone helped me through each asthma attack. has the ability to ride and experience My dad told me again and again that horses was the foundation of the therapy when one puts one’s mind to something, program Chip set out to establish, and anything is possible.” that philosophy has prevailed. With this tenacity instilled in her, It was this belief, and the alternative Christine went on to be an accomplished approaches Blue Rider Stables had been equestrian. As a teenager, she became a using to make the vision a reality, that enticed Christine Sierau. Christine is now North American Riding for the Handicapped–accredited therapeuticthe executive director of the program, riding instructor at Chef Center, and under her guidance Blue Rider has Michigan. Then, she spent a combined grown to its current impressive status at 17 years in England and Germany, where home in South Egremont. With the help Alessandra Mele

August/September 2013

All in the Smiles

she received a thorough education in horse training, stable management, and breeding. As a result, she earned certification as an assistant trainer as well as a stud assistant degree. In addition to this classical training in horsemanship, she was exposed to holistic methods: that is, examining the interconnectedness of horses and humans, and how they work together as a whole. It’s this approach that she uses to teach and inspire at Blue Rider Stables today.

Holistic Environment The sense of seamless interconnection between human and equine is present in every aspect of Blue Rider Stables, starting with the way the animals live. The horses are allowed freedom of movement, and wander about the open facilities, interacting with each other and their human companions in a comfortable, relaxed way. The integration eliminates any need for dominance, instead creating a safe, respectful space of mutual education. The mutual horse and human relationship is at the core of Blue Rider’s mission. Just as many of the students come to the stables for a therapeutic experience, a number of the equines arrive as rescue cases, having been through some neglect or hardship of their own. Becoming part of the Blue Rider program enables them to engage in a healing process as well, taking comfort in and learning from their human companions. One beloved horse, Rose, came to Blue Rider after her owner became ill and could no longer care for her. At first, Rose had a difficult time adjusting to herd life and suffered from depression. Near blindness and arthritis created physical obstacles, but she discovered her place within the community and now contributes what she can as a lesson and therapy horse.

Elizabeth Kasevich, a rider engaged in the program, took a special interest in Rose and played a significant role in healing the disheartened mare, just by quietly offering companionship. “For about two months I visited Rose every day, and for most of that time I stood in the pasture, just near her,” Elizabeth says. “You could not imagine my joy when one day as I walked toward Rose she looked at me and then watched me until I came up to her. She sniffed at my clothes and outstretched hand and then continued to eat. Eventually, she expected me to come close to her. She even allowed me to pat her, and to lean against her. Soon we were sharing our love.” With Christine’s guidance, Elizabeth has experienced healing of her own through equine relationships. Learning to ride later in life, Elizabeth needed to combat several emotional obstacles before she could be a confident rider. “Christine spent so much time with me. She never gave up on me, and helped me get over my fears,” Elizabeth says. “At Blue Rider, I was taught how to use my body correctly, and how to become intuitive with the horses. I’ve gained so many life lessons.” Elizabeth’s is just one of the many success stories that have come out of the Blue Rider program. Recently, the stable held its 19th-annual circus, in which 34 riders showcased their abilities on horseback. On display were the many aspects of horsemanship Blue Rider teaches — vaulting, team drills, bareback jumping, dressage routines — and all ages and levels of riding were well represented. The enthusiasm, dedication, and courage of both human and equine participants delivered the Blue Rider message in a powerful way. Christine witnesses such triumphs every day, and they still move her: “They keep me going every day,” she says. “To see someone who can only sit in a wheelchair get to move and control his environment, to see someone paralyzed with the fear of animals smiling while on a horse, to hear the words of a mute student, to see a horse that didn’t want to be touched reach for the hand of a person: every day is a little miracle.”

daily, the not-for-profit organization relies on donations. There are several ways to give to the program; visit bluerider.org to see how to help. The fund-raising effort put forth by the Blue Rider community also contributes significantly to the stable. More than $28,000 was raised last year, all earmarked for maintenance of the facilities and care of the animals. A recent fundraiser took place at the circus: a jug made its way through the crowd, in support of a necessary surgery for the blind lesson horse, Rhythm. The response was overwhelming. This year’s biggest fund-raiser will take place during the Blue Rider Stables Fun Day, on August 24. The event, at

For information on upcoming events and how to volunteer and donate, visit equustherapeutic.org.

Barefoot Performance Natural Hoofcare Orthopedic Trimming and Holistic Lameness Rehabilitation

Dealer

• Trimming to promote the healing of: Coffin bone rotation (laminitis), club “feet,” navicular syndrome, thrush/white line problems, contracted heels, under run heels, cracks, poor hoof quality, shod to barefoot transitions.

Support Blue Rider Stables wants to give everyone a chance to ride, and provides scholarships to those in need. Last year almost $10,000 was awarded, enabling students who otherwise couldn’t afford the expense to keep riding. To ensure that the miracles occur

French Park in North Egremont, will have pony rides, wagon rides, music, food, games, and a silent auction. Christine and the Blue Rider community welcome everyone to come and learn what the program is all about, and to have a wonderful and relaxing day. Lots of hard work and support go on behind the scenes at Blue Rider Stables, and Christine says it’s repaid in the form of students’ joy. “It’s all in the smiles,” she says. “As long as we have something to offer, we want to continue to do what we do well — mediate between equine and human.”

• Genuine options to conventional shoeing and hoofcare.

Dealer

Betsy Merritt Natural Hoofcare Professional (413) 348-5798

• High performance barefoot and maintenance trimming of all equines including donkeys, ponies, and minis.

betsymerritt@hotmail.com Visit www.thehorseshoof.com to learn more about Natural Hoofcare. Massachusetts Horse

Sunny Banks Ranch Steve Robinson, professional cowboy and owner of Sunny Banks Ranch, which is in Becket, announces his new efforts to educate riders on how to effectively communicate with horses. “I want to help the horse community really understand horses and what they have to teach us,” says Steve. “We want to establish a system that works for both horse and rider, one that enables them to communicate and work together in a partnership.” Steve is holding Continuous Education for People and Their Horses, monthly clinics that aim to address communication barriers, consider the mechanics of the horse, and build rider confidence. His Extreme Cowboy clinics provide a taste of several aspects of rodeo riding — roping, cow sorting, cattle driving, and barrel racing. Educational trail rides, lessons, and training sessions are regularly available as well. Contact Steve at (413) 623-5606 for more information.

Amherst Equestrian Center and Family Farm Alison Wilson and Matt Ingellis are pleased to announce the opening of Amherst Equestrian Center and Family Farm. Located at 50 Station Road, the facility operates on 25 acres of conservation land. The facility offers full or rough board, as well as training programs customized to each horse and rider. The property, formerly Sycamore Stables, is undergoing many improvements, such as reconfiguration and expansion of paddocks, the development of a hay field, and the addition of a jumping course. The equestrian center partners with the Family Farm conservation land, which strives to bring together community and promote land conservation through farm events. Contact Alison at (413) 526-0816 for information on boarding and training. 34

August/September 2013

News in Our Community Relocate, Rehabilitate, and Rehome In May, the New England Equine Rescue North (NEER North), of West Newbury, rescued eight local horses that had run out of options. No other Massachusetts rescue had room, so NEER North stretched its resources and

in Sherborn, as co–resident instructor. She will work in collaboration with Erika (Hawkes) Hendricks to continue to grow the quality of the instruction and training Course Brook Farm provides its boarders and the wider eventing and dressage community. Stephie has competed at Bromont (Canada),

hand Paint gelding now living at NEER North. The sponsorship will help Petey on the trail to finding a home. The Essex County Co-op began in 1917, at the end of World War I, as a nonprofit organization to help struggling farmers in the area purchase large quantities of seed and grain at a discounted cost. Today the Essex County Co-op continues to serve farmers plus home- and pet owners. Visit essexcountycoop.net to discover what it has for you and your horse.

Another Sunny Day Stefanie Britton, of Essex County, started a social-media blitz to find eight-year-old, somewhat green, 18-hand Holsteiner cross Sunny a new home. Sunny is a sweet, lovable gelding but size and previous issues was scaring away potential owners. Stefanie became aware of Sunny’s need for a new home and decided to get involved. Local horsemen started cross posting and the result is that Sunny now has a new home and a new beginning in New Hampshire.

Bob Stowell

overherd

Caleigh Patterson riding Feature Presentation at the June 23 North Shore Horsemen’s Association Hunter Show at Twisdenwood Farm in Georgetown. Caleigh rides with Shane Powell at Evermoor, in West Newbury.

followed its mantra of relocate, rehabilitate, and rehome. Most are trained and ridable. Several will soon be available for placement. Unfortunately, this situation put its fund-raising campaign, A Home of Our Own, on the back burner. By acquiring its own land, hay fields, and barn, NEER North expects to expand its operations and shift funds currently allocated for rent and feed to more directly benefit horses in crisis. To make a donation, go to neernorth.org/donate.

Stephie Baer Joins Course Brook Farm International, advanced-level event rider Stephie Baer has joined Course Brook Farm,

in Mexico, and at Rolex Kentucky and Burghley (England), and was short-listed for the 1998 US World Championship Team. She’s been teaching beginners through advanced riders for 35 years and has trained countless horses through the levels. Stephie teaches seven days a week. Go to coursebrookfarm.com to schedule a lesson or a visit to watch her teach. Stephie’s beautiful family farm in Orange is for sale. See the ad on page 58 for details.

Co-operatively Caring Kudos to the Essex County Co-op Farm and Garden Center, of Topsfield, for its sponsorship of Petey, a 15-

Lalobarun Ranch in the Top Ten Congratulations to Eileen Cashman, of Lalobarun Ranch in Newbury, on the success of her mare LRs Aint Just Wilo N Dixie, aka Willow, who placed in the top ten twice at the 2013 Pinto World Championship, which was held in Oklahoma. Willow’s sire is Eileen’s award-winning American Paint Horse Association (APHA) stallion Lil More Conclusive. The black-and-white tobiano filly was shown by Fred Tabor. Well done to all.

Fieldstone Show Park for Sale Thirty-three years ago, Scott Clawson purchased 12 acres in Halifax and began to conceptualize the epitome of horse shows. Soon the Fieldstone Show Park was a reality. Now incorporating

106 acres, the park boasts a hunter/jumper facility for Arated shows. Scott is planning to retire, and his brainchild is on the market.

AMHA and UMass Sign Gift Agreement The American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) announced a new partnership and agreement with the UMass Amherst libraries to store, archive, and catalog the AMHA registry record collection from inception (roughly the 1930s) to 1980. Registration of individual animals provides a permanent record of their genealogy, thus validating their ancestry. Says AMHA President Harry Sebring, “This is a wonderful opportunity to work with an outstanding institution to ensure the long-term preservation of the collection and make it available to researchers and historians, not to mention accessible for educational purposes. The Morgan has a long and rich history with UMass Amherst. The UMass Horse Barn became the stable for Morgans when the federal government disbanded the cavalry. The Horse Barn is considered to have been the home of the original Bay State Morgan bloodline.” Robert Cox, head of the Department of Special Collections and University Archives, says UMass Amherst “has been the steward of a Morgan herd and now we’re proud to be stewards of the Morgan record itself.” The post-1980 registry collection will remain with AMHA for easy access to more-recent records.

Ride With The Best Would you like to have your horse trained by one of the foremost horse trainers in the nation? Or do you want to improve your riding skills and communication with your horse? Are you interested in improving your dressage test score, lowering your barrel-racing run time, improving your jumping skills, finetuning your reining patterns, or perhaps enhancing your

horse’s performance in harness? Do you want to perfect your western-pleasure performance, achieve the best gaits with your easy-gaited horse, or acquire skills in training mules and donkeys? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to participate in the Ride With The Best program at Equine Affaire, in West Springfield, this November. Equine Affaire’s program of more than 150 clinics, seminars, and demonstrations will address a broad range of equine disciplines and horse-related topics and be conducted by many of the nation’s leading coaches, competitors, trainers, and management experts. Although training clinics are designed to instruct horse people watching the sessions from outside of the arena, they also offer unique opportunities for selected riders to bring their horses to the event and receive individual instruction from top professionals. Fees run from $70 for a single-session clinic to $225 for a multisession, and cover participation, event admission, and stabling. Each clinician will select the participants for his or her sessions from written applications and videos submitted to Equine Affaire. Visit equineaffaire.com for details and the application form.

Versatile Horse and Rider Competition Equine Affaire’s Versatile Horse and Rider Competition will return to Equine Affaire in November. A select group of riders and horses will compete for $5,500 in cash and other prizes and the coveted title of champion. The competition is open to all riders at least 18 years old and horses of all breeds and disciplines. Thirty horse/rider teams will be preselected based on application materials. Are you and your horse up the challenge? To obtain all of the details and an entry form, visit equineaffaire.com. Massachusetts Horse

Ultimate Trail Comfort When you need comfort in the saddle, a Tucker is the answer.

Western & English Apparel & Tack Horse & Fencing Supplies • Card • Gifts • Jewelry

Horse-whispering Principles R. J. Sadowski, of Peace Haven Farm in Plainfield, has been guiding and coaching Tara Bennett-Goleman, best-selling author of Emotional Alchemy, for her latest book, Mind Whispering. He’s also participating in workshops at the Omega Institute, in Rhinebeck, New York; the Garrison Institute, in Garrison, New York; and the Kripalu Center, which is in Stockbridge. Tara and her husband, Dan Goleman, are the presenters and R.J. provides the demonstrations with his horses Red Cloud and Star. The topic is horse whispering, a method for developing rapport between animal and human. Together Tara, Dan, and R.J. will discuss how integrating these principles with training the mind can help free us from self-defeating emotional habits. To learn more, visit eomega.org.

MMHA Autumn Clinic

R.J. Sadowski, Jr. HorseMindShip™ Horsemanship and Riding Sessions 71 Pleasant St., Plainfield, Mass. Learn to: • Understand horse behavior • Apply horse psychology • Build a powerful relationship with any horse

The Massachusetts Morgan Horse Association is holding its Autumn Clinic on September 21 at Sebring Stables, Hancock. Topics will be Western Dressage, with Cliff Swanson; Carriage Driving, with Jeff Morse; and Anatomy in Motion: The Visible Horse, with Susan Harris. For details, go to massmorgan.com.

New Dates for Jumper Classic Because of flooding conditions at the show site, the Jumper Classic, originally scheduled for July 10 to 14, will be September 4 to 8.

Have fun: • Day camps • Trail rides • Obstacles course • Private appointments at your farm or ours

Call R.J. or Paula for more information: (413) 634-8800 www.peacehavenfarm.com www.eomega.org/workshops/mind-whispering#-workshop-description-block

August/September 2013

The change was determined to be in the best interests of the exhibitors and spectators, as well as the property owners at Maplecroft Farm, in Ipswich, the new site of the Jumper Classic. All advance-purchase tickets will be honored. Melissa Lovasco, president and CEO of the Jumper Classic, said, “We look forward to offering our riders and patrons the kind of event the Jumper Classic has been known for over the past two decades. We hope everyone will be able to attend, and will find the dates to be a good fit for their schedules.” A July 13 fire destroyed the indoor riding arena. “All horses and people are safe at the facility,” says Melissa. “The fire will have no impact on the Jumper Classic in September.” Visit jumperclassic.com for more information.

Cavalia’s Odysseo The internationally acclaimed Cavalia again pushes the limits of live entertainment with its second production — a $30 million extravaganza that’s wowing audiences across the country. Odysseo will have its New England premiere on Wednesday, August 7. The exclusive engagement will play under its White Big Top at Assembly Row in Somerville. Cavalia combines the equestrian arts, stage arts, and high-tech theatrical effects. A revolution in live performance, Odysseo features 67 horses and 46 artists. This ode to horse

and man, imagined by one of the cofounders of Cirque du Soleil, is a feast for the eyes and the soul. For the horses, the stage is a big playground. There’s a choreographed routine for them to follow but they also have the latitude to express themselves. Because of the strong communication between trainer and horse, the trainer can sense when a horse doesn’t feel like doing something and then won’t force it. The horses are treated with great care. The wellbeing of the horses is the primary concern of Cavalia. Among the team of 20 are a stable manager, two veterinary technicians, a farrier, and several grooms. Every day the horses get their share of pampering, such as a shower, grooming, massage, outings to the paddocks, and workshops with their riders. The rhythms of daily life are based on the horses. Cavalia puts on a maximum of seven shows per week and

each horse has a stand-in. This allows Cavalia to give the horses a few days or weeks off as needed, but enables them to maintain the quality of performances. More than 60 horses live in the Cavalia stables. About 40 of them perform regularly; the others are used on a rotating basis or are still in training. When the show moves from one city to the next, the horses go on ‘vacation,’ so they can rest and graze peacefully. This is an opportunity not to be missed! Group packages are available — perfect for Pony Clubs, 4-H clubs, and IEA teams. For tickets, go to cavalia.net or call (866) 999-8111.

New Location Now Open! 114 Coburn Ave., Gardner, MA State-of-the-Art Equine Laundry Facility Expert Tack Repair Gently Used Blankets and Tack for Sale Brass Name Plates Engraved Established 1980

Jennifer Safron JennsTackRepair@comcast.net (978) 340-5576 Massachusetts Horse

. . . Foxhunting continued from page 25

can determine in what field you’d feel most comfortable. Safety is always of paramount importance.” “We’re a very welcoming, fun-loving group,” says Associate MFH Ruth Lawler. “Spectators are always encouraged and on Saturdays and holidays are invited to join us for a post-hunt tailgate breakfast.” This year the club held its 103rdAnnual Norfolk Hunt Horse Show, a derby cross, and a spring hunter pace. There’ll be a fall foxhunting clinic, then the Norfolk Hunt Field Hunter Show the next day; the Westport Hunter Pace; and the Norfolk Hunter Trails.

Nashoba Valley Hunt Royalston, nashobavalleyhunt.org Joint Masters of Foxhounds: E. Daphne Taylor, Edmund J. Taylor, and Russell Therrien Founded in 1964 by former members of the Groton Hunt, which had been established in 1922 and disbanded early in 1964, Nashoba Valley is located between central and western Massachusetts, in Royalston. It provides a variety of ways to join for a day: riding, biking, walking, and riding

along in another member’s car. If you’ve never been foxhunting and would like to learn more about it, this is a great way to get acquainted. The Nashoba Valley Hunt holds three hunter paces each year: in May, August, and October.

Old North Bridge Hounds Carlisle, oldnorthbridgehounds.org Joint Masters of Foxhounds: Ginny Zukatynski, Noel Estes, and Marjorie Franko The Old North Bridge Hounds, established in 1969, rides primarily in the Middlesex County towns of Concord, Acton, Carlisle, Framingham, Pepperell, Groton, and Stow. This hunt territory gives members access to some of the most beautiful equestrian trails in the Boston Metro West area all the way to southern New Hampshire. The club presents a lecture on hunting protocols. Then there’s a mounted session that gives you a chance to see how your horse behaves in company and exposes it to the excitement of the hounds. During the clinic, riders may jump small fences but you can also hunt without jumping. Old North Bridge uses three hunting fields — leisure, hilltop,

and fences — to accommodate all riders. “We’re a very social club,” says Joint MFH Ginny Zukatynski, who says the atmosphere is informal and friendly. “Last year we had a summer-solstice evening hack through Concord with twenty riders who enjoyed dinner afterward, and also a lively Fourth of July cookout.” Club members enjoy a tailgate breakfast after every hunt, the Annual Landowners Tea, the All New England Hunts Ball, hound shows, hound races, the New England Hunter Trials, puppy walking, hunter paces, a spring poker ride, Pony Club days, joint meets, and the annual Master’s Dinner. “It’s a hoot,” says Ginny, who also serves as huntsman. “My Hanoverian loves hunting and I love watching and working the hounds. When they give voice [the sound of hounds speaking to a line of scent], it’s exciting and really beautiful.” Although 80 percent of its members are women, Old North Bridge Hounds has many supporters on the ground, husbands included, who enjoy following the hound truck or helping hold horses at checks. “It’s a good gig,” Ginny says, and another way to learn the ropes. Pony Clubs are invited to Junior Day, a fall fixture, and cubbing to take the puppies out. “We like to let them ride up with staff,” says Ginny. “The Pony Clubbers have no fear.”

All in a Day’s Hunt

10' x 10' Matted Stalls . 80' x 200' Indoor Riding Arena 150' x 200' Outdoor Riding Arena . Large Jumping Field On-Site Rated & Schooling Shows Nearby State Park for Trail Riding Private & Group Lessons

The first time you hear the huntsman’s horn and see the hounds gathered around his horse, you’ll experience a feeling of going back in time. These are sounds and sights you’ll not soon forget. For now, though, the hunt is over, the hounds have loaded, and the huntsman has blown “Going Home.” As you would bid the MFH after a day’s hunt, even if it’s one in the afternoon, goodnight. For more-detailed information, visit the Masters of Foxhounds Association’s website, mfha.org, or its site at mfha.org/docs/guidebooks/introtofoxhunting2012.pdf, where you can find the MFHA’s Introduction to Foxhunting to download. Holly Jacobson, a freelance writer, lives in Essex County and keeps her retired Quarter Horse hunter close to home while she pursues new goals in para dressage.

August/September 2013

trail guide by Holly Jacobson

Lowell Dracut Tyngsboro

State Forest

for the past eight months. “Sid and I go out about once a week for a nice change of pace from the arena,” says Caroline. “We both love it. The trails are well maintained, though rocky in places because of erosion. There are miles of trails, so one

Debbie Muldoon Christopoulos

It comes as a surprise that 1,140 acres of forest exists so close to the bustling city of Lowell, in northeastern Massachusetts. Named for the three towns it touches, the multiuse tract has six miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The forest lies in a historic area, as it was the site of a Native American village before colonial settlement. It was acquired in the mid-1800s to be mined for its granite, which was used to build Lowell’s canals and factory foundations. The 180 acres of ponds, wetlands, and causeways make it a very pretty place, says Jennifer Stowe, a regional ranger who works for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, which oversees the forest, and also a rider. The state forest combines tranquillity and an ever-changing experience of chance encounters. Cutter Farm, in Dracut, has a dedicated group of trail adventurers who relish their proximity to this wooded preserve. “One of the reasons I board at Cutter is access to the trails,” says Ann Thomas, who regularly rides her Palomino Morgan mare Feronia in the forest. “It’s a very peaceful, quiet setting.” Caroline Grady says she’s been enjoying discovering the forest trails with her 15-year-old Thoroughbred, Sidney,

can choose different routes.” Debbie Muldoon Christopoulos, another rider from Cutter Farm, explores the offshoot trails on a leased 17.3-hand Argentine ex-jumper named

Are you and your horse having problems? Would you like your horse started under saddle and/or in harness? Specializing in starting young horses correctly. 100% customer satisfaction using the round pen and natural horsemanship techniques. Over ten years experience starting horses as well as fixing existing problems. Your horse will go under saddle smoothly at all gaits. Guaranteed to be accomplished at the end of the month (30 days) or the training is free. References available. The cost of the one-month training is $800, including board, in Orange, Mass.

It’s a Pleasure Training with Peter Whitmore (978) 652-2231 . www.itsapleasuretraining.com

Bolero. Stepping into the forest, she says, “really takes away the stress of everyday life.” After a year and a half, she’s still discovering new terrain and vistas. “Not all the trails are marked on the map,” Debbie says. On the tighter hiking paths, her horse doesn’t always fit between the trees, but it’s always an adventure. “Sometimes you end up in a neighborhood, so you backtrack out,” she says. “Recently we discovered a river we never knew existed.” Fellow boarder Judy Bailey rides the trails on her Icelandic pony. When she and Debbie go out together, the mismatched pair attract attention on the few occasions when they meet up with other forest users. “People want to pet the horses,” Judy says, smiling. On the Lowell side, the duo discovered unusual rocky outcrops they’ve nicknamed “The Formations,” as they look strange and purposely carved. There’s a rumor of a rock that looks like a horse’s head, but Debbie says they haven’t found that one yet. Debbie says she appreciates that every ride stimulates her horse’s senses: “He’s always alert, and it’s a feeling of total freedom for both of us.” The parking lot is at the main entrance, at the Trotting Park Road gate. It’s small and on weekends becomes crowded, so get there early, or for alternate access, contact Marina Burliss, (978) 697-7858, for permission to park at Cutter Farm. The fee at the farm is $35 for two horses. Note: The forest has no bathrooms. mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails/lowell.pdf.

In the October/November issue, we’ll feature photographers, insurance tips, buying and selling equestrian properties, and eventing. Want to be interviewed? Place an ad? Email us at info@mahorse.com. Massachusetts Horse

Bay State Happenings New England Morgan Show

Alessandra Mele

Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton, Hampshire County

Northeast Friesian Horse Club Classic Show

Sophiea Bitel

Topsfield Fairgrounds, Essex County

Western New England Professional Horsemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Show

Alessandra Mele

Berkshire Eqestrian Center, Richmond, Berkshire County

August/September 2013

Grazing Fields Farm Medal Day

Laura Solod

Grazing Fields Farm, Buzzards Bay, Barnstable County

Hanson Riding Club Open Show

Laura Solod

Briggs Stable, Hanover, Plymouth County

MHC and NEHC-rated Show Saddle Rowe, Medway, Norfolk County

A Horse Drawn Affair Broe Farm Bill & Nancy Broe

BREEDING • SALES • TRAINING • LESSONS

Standing at stud: Rosevale Leggo Laura Solod

(1998), 16.2 hands, black (Rumbrook Immortal Image x Meziadan Royal Teala)

258 Crest Lane, Ancramdale, NY 518-329-5249 . ahorse@taconic.net www.ahorsedrawnaffair.com Massachusetts Horse

Partners In March the BRDC sponsored its American Red Cross Blood Drive. Thank you to all who participated in making this day a success for those who need life-saving blood. The BRDC held a How to Camp with Your Horse Clinic in April. Margo Petracone and Larry Marshall prepared participants for a practice camp-out a few weekends later. It was a perfect way to build confidence and experience, for seasoned campers and first-timers alike. Participants on the spring trail ride enjoyed a lot of laughs, good food, and of course riding, riding, riding. The BRDC Fun Show treated 13 young riders to a day of horse games, food, music, and even a few training tips. Everyone won a blue ribbon. Eight BRDC members rode in the Barre Memorial Day Parade. The first show of the season is a special one for us. We again had a successful Scholarship Show and look forward to awarding some lucky students in our community much-needed funds to continue their education. The Worcestershire Pony Club will sponsor the BRDC show on August 11; the Apple Valley Pony Club will sponsor the August 25 show. October brings beautiful foliage and the BRDC fall trail ride, this year on October 12 and 13 — an opportunity for camping, more laughs, good food, and, yes, lots of riding. BRDC invites you to join us at any of our events. To keep up-to-date, find us on Facebook and online at barreridinganddrivingclub.com.

7Denise Kellicker Belchertown Equine Organization The BEO hosted an excellent open show on Sunday, May 19. The wonderful volunteers 42

August/September 2013

were vital to its success. Thank you to all. On June 16, the BEO hosted a great trail ride at Wilbraham’s McDonald Nature Preserve. Everyone enjoyed the wonderful trails and the great company afterward for the brown-bag lunch. The BEO will ride there again on September 29. Join us on

tion. We need volunteers for our committees. If you think your professional experience might serve us in some capacity, visit capecoddressage.org for details. Scheduled for August 24 and 25 is a clinic with USDF–gold-medalist Gigi Nutter at True North Farm, Harwich. A highly experi-

Spectators enjoyed wagon rides with Karl and Laura Riva, touring the carriage museums, and visiting the 15 vendors in the outdoor Coach Barn Shoppes. A Car Cruise on Father’s Day for cars from 1970 and earlier was held in conjunction with the show. It takes a village to put on such a wonderful show, and volunteers from the CCDS were invaluable. Many thanks to everyone who helped. A very special thank-you goes to the Waller family and their fabulous staff for setting the scene for an outstanding weekend of carriage-driving competition. The Lenox Tub Parade will be September 21 (rain date: September 22). Visit colonialcarriage.org for a rundown of carriage events.

7Kay Konove Granby Regional Horse Council

Pat France

Barre Riding and Driving Club

Kim Brockett and Sage being judged by Pinnie Sears at the June 22 New England Equestrian Center of Athol Donkey and Mule Show.

August 11 at Mount Toby Stables/Craig Memorial Equestrian Center, in Leverett, for another trail ride that promises loads of fun. The BEO is hosting a Trail Horse Competition and Ride to benefit the Peggy Santaniello Scholarship Fund. A scholarship will be awarded at the annual Winter Social Dinner Dance. This ride will be a full day of adventure and a barbecue. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. You can also purchase meal-only tickets. Visit belchertownequineorg.com for all the details.

7Sue Bradley Cape Cod Dressage Association The CCDA is excited to bring educational opportunities to the Cape and the islands. We encourage equestrians of all disciplines to join, as anyone can benefit from the organiza-

enced and sought-after clinician, Gigi has more than 35 years of experience competing in both dressage and jumpers. With a strong emphasis on the basics, she has brought many riders to the FEI level.

Colonial Carriage and Driving Society The 15th Annual June Orleton Farm Pleasure Driving Show took place in Stockbridge. Presented by the CCDS in cooperation with the hospitality of Orleton Farm owners Harvey and Mary Stokes Waller, the event drew 55 exhibitors from the East Coast, a third of them from Massachusetts. The show is unique in the driving world in that it offers one day of combined tests — dressage and timed obstacles — as well as two full days of pleasure-driving classes. You can find show results at colonialcarriage.org.

The GRHC has had a busy year and there’s a lot more to come. The annual June show was a great success, thanks as always to the many volunteers. The August 25 show is planned for Granby’s Dufresne Park. We’ll be hosting a Poker Ride on Sunday, September 8, and the Old Time Gymkhana is two weeks later, on September 22. The games patterns are easy for everyone. All disciplines welcome, and there are lots of divisions. GRHC will be joining the annual Belchertown Parade and is looking for parade horses, riders, drivers, and folks to carry the banner. Visit granbyregionalhorse.org for details.

7Jennifer Moreau Hampshire County Riding Club Tired of hot and dusty shows? The HCRC’s quiet, grassy grounds provide the perfect summer setting for the Western Massachusetts Horse

7Diane Merritt Massachusetts Quarter Horse Association On June 9, the MQH Youth Association presented the first annual Amanda Putney Memorial Horse Show. We had a spectacular turnout: some classes attracted more than 40 entries. The raffle and the youth club raised a substantial amount for the scholarship fund, which makes it easier for deserving youths to show Quarter Horses, as was Amanda’s wish. The MQHA also put on a successful Spring Show and hosted the July Region 6 Experience at the Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. We at the MQHA congratulate members who’ve qualified for the AQHA World Show and the Youth World Show. The MQHA will host its

annual trail ride on September 22 at Waters Farm in Sutton. It’s open to all breeds and disciplines and you can choose an eight-mile loop or a 12-mile. Visit massqha.com for details.

7Emily Messing South County Riders The SCR started the season with a show on Mother’s Day, May 12, but since then we’ve been challenged by too much rain. The first Game Day had to be postponed to late in June; the successful, but small, show took place on a very hot and humid day. Because the parking area at our show grounds was saturated from a week of heavy rain, we had to postpone the Father’s Day Show to July 28. Thanks to the town of Egremont for a new ridingring fence at French Park. The South County Riders shows are fun and relaxed, and offer classes for all ages and levels.

7Mary Brazie West Newbury Riding and Driving Club Despite somewhat challenging weather conditions, the WNRDC proudly reports that the summer riding season is in full swing at the picturesque Pipestave Hill Equestrian Center. The club is preparing to host the annual Adventure Trail on September 15. This fun and friendly activity involves miles of beautiful trails dotted with creative and delightful obstacles that can be enjoyed — or passed over — by any horse-and-rider team. Proceeds will support local trail associations. For an entry form, go to wnrdc.com. The second of WNRDC’s two horse trials will be held October 13. The course has jumps ranging in height from 2' to 2'9" and comprises Modified Novice, Beginner Novice, Modified Beginner Novice, Elementary, and Grasshopper divisions. The club would like to remind all horse lovers and spectators that admission is

TRAILERS BUILT TO LAST

Show Series. Join us in Goshen on August 17. This show features an English Western Versatility Class, for which the Raf Banner Award will be presented at the annual banquet. Visit wmhss.org for the prize list. Open Grounds Nights are August 28 and September 25. These are informal occasions for members to bring their horses and use the rings, equipment, and one another’s expertise for training, preparing for an upcoming show, or simply to play. The HCRC has three trail rides for August and September. On Sunday, August 4, we’ll be riding from the club grounds on the dirt roads and woodland trails of the neighboring DAR State Forest; September 15 we meet at the Four Seasons Club, in Chesterfield, to ride along the river in the Chesterfield Gorge to the Claude Hill Trail; and on September 29 we ride in the Conway State Forest, in Whately. Details and the contact person for each ride are available at hampshirecountyridingclub.org. HCRC rides are open to club members and guests.

Incredible deals on 2012 & 2013 models! Lowest prices in the Northeast!

Introducing the New Victory Line Merhow 2 Horse Step Up with Dressing Room $10,300. Delivery available on all models.

Massachusetts Horse

Educating People and Their Horses Steve Robinson, Professional Cowboy & Trainer

free to take in the events at Pipestave Hill. As always, volunteers are welcome indeed. People who help out may earn discounts on entry fees for subsequent mounted activities as well as automatic entry into a twice-yearly raffle. Additionally, volunteers who are high school seniors or in college are eligible to compete for the $500 annual continuing-education scholarship. The 2013 WNRDC scholarship winner is Paige

Beliveau, of West Newbury, who will be a sophomore at Albion College in the fall. Paige is of great support to the club, particularly in crosscountry management and the horse trials. For more information on events, volunteer opportunities, and the benefits of club membership, visit wnrdc.com.

7Liz Russell

Bluebird Meadows Farm Rodeos . Horse Training . Old West Riding Adventures . Sale Horses Private & Group Lessons . Day Camp . Team Sorting . Roping & Rodeo Clinics Horsemanship Clinics . Calf Roping . Team Roping . Youth Rodeo Group

Route 8, Becket, Mass. (413) 623-5606

New & Used Tack Buying & Selling

Mobile Tack Shop

Cash Paid for Used Saddles

Elizabeth Fazzino • Steven Brown (860) 604-8088 or 844-8689 • efazzino@yahoo.com North Granby, Conn. BluebirdMeadowsFarm.com

25 Year Guarantee!

SHEDS • BARNS GARAGES • KITS BARK MULCH AND MORE! We Custom Build on Your Property

Carolyn Szklarz Sales Representative Ext: 1610 FAX (413) 586-3670 carolyn.szklarz@wbmason.com

W.B. Mason Co., Inc. Office Supplies, Furniture & Printing 43 North Road East Windsor, Connecticut 06088 1-888-WB-MASON (1-888-926-2766) 44

August/September 2013

Hamilton

This Olde Horse

Circa 1914.

Dressage & Combined Test

Schooling Series

August 4 . Judge Kathi Bruce “L” September 8 . Judge Lainey Johnson “L” Western Dressage Tests Equitation Classes

October 13 . Judge Keith Angstadt “r” Bill Warren Clinics Verne Batchelder Clinics Bill McMullin Clinics

November Year-end Awards Banquet

Xenophon Farm Janice Kachavos, Instructor, General Manager . Elaine Kachavos, Competitions & Clinics

80 SUNDERLAND RD., RTE. 47, MONTAGUE, MASS. 413.367.9828 . XenophonFarm@aol.com

Massachusetts Horse

. . . Blue Heron Farm continued from page 14

of the University of Massachusetts Amherst; Eleanor is entering her third year there. The sisters began their riding careers at a large hunter/jumper stable but chose to focus on this particular breed, and feel they’ve benefited tremendously from the transition. Margaret and Eleanor agree that it’s Bill and Norma’s training philosophy and dedication to their horses they admire and respect most at Blue Heron Farm. “We like to make well-rounded horses,” says Margaret. “Bill and Norma make sure they get that sort of training on the farm and in the show ring. I also appreciate that they’re really interested in finding these horses forever homes. That’s very important to me. We want to make the best match possible between horse and rider.” Forming an intimate connection with each horse is what the Williams sisters pursue when training. Norma recognizes this effort and the positive result it yields: “The girls really focus on the relationship between themselves and the horses they’re working with. They’re all about educating the animals.” This holds true not only when schooling at home, but also when traveling to the show ring. Bringing the Fjords

to shows is part of their development into mature riding horses, and Bill and Norma enjoy giving the breed a chance to shine. “We work on going to places where the Fjords aren’t expected, because they tend to do very well,” Bill says with a laugh. A highlight for Blue Heron Farm was the entry of Margaret and Tulie, a gray mare, into Equine Affaire’s Versatile Horse and Rider Competition in 2010, and again in 2011. They were the only English riders in the western-dominated competition, and Tulie was the only Norwegian Fjord. In 2011 the pair finished in the top 10, with special appreciation from judge John Lyons. Bill, Norma, and Margaret reflect on this accomplishment with well-earned pride. “At the shows, the girls are not there for themselves,” says Bill. “They’re there to enrich the animals. It isn’t about the ribbon they get; it’s about what a horse experienced and learned that day.”

Hillside Sanctuary The overall development, improvement, and success that Blue Heron Farm has achieved under the stewardship of Norma and Bill are intertwined with the rich history of the land and some things will never change. “We’re just now finaliz-

ing a long process of protecting the farm from development in perpetuity, through the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture resources,” Bill says. “It’s a unique piece of fertile land, and we intend to keep it agricultural.” This effort indicates devotion to a breed, as it ensures that Norwegian Fjords will graze happily on the hillside for many years to come. The farm serves as a sanctuary to this distinct breed, as Bill and Norma put their horses’ welfare first and foremost. As such true agricultural sanctuaries become scarce, Blue Heron Farm offers an escape from modern chaos. Bill and Norma welcome visitors to experience their haven and their horses firsthand, as guests in one of their farm-vacation rentals. Blue Heron presents a realistic picture of a working farm steeped in New England tradition. The love and care they have put into the land, and into their horses, is evident in everything the couple do on their property. At 1,500 feet above everyday life, things move a little slower and are accomplished with a little more care, and the Fjords and land are certainly the better for that.

HORSE POWER SHOWS JUNE 14 ~ 16 VtQHA Horse Show (vtqha.com) 25 ~ 29 Northeast Benefit Show (508) 759-9512)

413.584.2237 3countyfair.com APRIL 19 ~ 21 MaQHA Youth, Novice, and Open Show (massqha.com) 23 ~ 28 Connecticut Arabian Show (arabianhorseclubofconnecticut.org)

MAY 4~5 9 ~ 12 18 46

NEDA Spring Symposium (neda.org) MaQHA Horse Show (massqha.com) New England Classic Horse Show

August/September 2013

JULY 6~7

KOF Dressage Days (kingoakfarm.com) 12 ~ 14 Regional 4-H Horse Show (regional4Hshow.com) 22 ~ 28 New England Morgan Show (nemha.com)

AUGUST 6 ~ 11

Northampton Hunter/Jumper Show (biscuithillfarm.com) 17 - 18 State 4-H Show (mass4H.org) 30 ~ 9/2 Three County Fair

SEPTEMBER 25 ~ 29

Mass. Horsemen’s Council Days of Champions (mahorsecouncil.com)

HUNTER JUMPER SHOW SERIES August 11 . September 15 . October 20

DRESSAGE SERIES August 25 . September 29

AUTUMN JUMPER SERIES September 8 & 22 . October 6 & 27 November 3 three large sand rings . totally dust-free easy drive . spectator tents ample parking . easy turn-around great jumps . large & small dressage arenas

Wild Aire Farm wildairefarm.com . (508) 765-0641 926 Dennison Dr., Southbridge, MA Minutes off I84, MA Pike, Rtes. 20, 9, 290, 146, 395.

events August 1 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Twisdenwood Farm, Georgetown. northshorehorsemens.org. 1 – 3 CONNECTICUT SUMMER CLASSIC, West Springfield. saddlebred.com. 2 OPEN SCHOOLING SHOW, Undermountain Farm, Lenox. undermountainfarm.com. 3 R.J. SADOWSKI DAY CAMP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com. 3 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158. 3 MEDAL DAYS, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com. 3 BTA/BOLT HORSE SHOW, LockwoodMoore Field, Boxford. btabolt.org. 3 SUMMER GAMES NIGHT, Northfield. drybrookstables.com. 3 MHC SHOW, Medway. saddlerowe.com.

4 HCRC DAR STATE FOREST RIDE, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.com. 4 OPEN SHOW, Fox Meadow Farm, Smith College, Northampton. spayne@smith.edu. 4 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 4 STEERAGE ROCK RIDERS 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Brimfield. pennyblomgren@aol.com. 4 WNEPHA SHOW, Blythewood Stable, Pittsfield. wnepha.com. 4 OPEN SHOW, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 4 STARTER HORSE TRIALS, Harwich. truenortheventing.com. 4 SCHOOLING SHOW, Brewster. woodsongfarm.com.

Hampshire County Riding Club’s Open Show August 17 Goshen, Mass. Fourth show in the Western Massachusetts Horse Show Series 16 divisions including something for everyone: lead line, walk trot, walk trot canter, green horse, open, youngster in hand, small equine in hand, driving single, driving small equine . . . and much more! 16 Day-end Champions! English Western Versatility Classic

4 TEAM SORTING, Hillside Meadows, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

4 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TEST SCHOOLING SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

4 NEDA SCHOOLING SHOW, Strongwater Park, Tewksbury. neda.org. 5 SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Lakeville. 6 P.M. takeoffstables.com. 5 GRAZING FIELDS FARM MEDAL DAY, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com. 6 – 11 NORTHAMPTON HUNTER/JUMPER SHOW, Northampton. biscuithillfarm.com. 7 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. appleknoll.com. 7 CAVALIA ODYSSEO PREMIERE, Somerville. cavalia.net or (866) 999-8111. 7 MINI SHOW VII, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 8 USEF-, MHC-, MHJ-, NEHC-RATED HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. riverwindfarm.com. 9 FREESTYLE WINE AND CHEESE PARTY, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

25 Forest Lane, Millis, Mass. 508-376-2564 • www.appleknoll.com

Starter Trials September 1 – Pre-Elementary through Preliminary-Training

Wednesday Night Jumper Shows August 7 August 14

August 21 August 28

September 4 September 11

First Annual Jumping Derby August 18 – Pre-Elementary through Intermediate

Halloween Hunter Pace October 27

Prize list at wmhss.org

Clinics and competitions are always being added. Check appleknoll.com for updates. Prize lists and entry forms at:

appleknoll.com Massachusetts Horse

10 R.J. SADOWSKI EQUITATION WORKSHOP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.

11 HORSE POWER HUNTER JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com.

17 – 18 STATE 4-H SHOW, Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. mass4h.org.

10 TEAM SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158.

11 BEO TRAIL RIDE, Mount Toby Stables, Leverett. belchertownequineorg.com.

17 – 18 WILL FAUDREE CLINIC, Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com.

10 SUNRISE OPEN PLEASURE SHOW, South Hadley. kellimarie43@yahoo.com.

11 SCHOOLING SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com.

18 WHIPOWILL STABLES OPEN BARN, Dudley. whipowillstables.weebly.com.

10 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

13 MHC SHOW, Pembroke. riverwindfarm.com.

18 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

10 MHC Show, Medway. saddlerowefarm.com. 11 ADULTS-ONLY DRESSAGE SHOW, to benefit the lesson scholarship fund. New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

13 – 17 MASSACHUSETTS MORGAN SHOW, West Springfield. massmorgan.com.

18 NEW ENGLAND SUMMER CLASSIC, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.

14 MINI SHOW VIII, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

18 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

11 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

14 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

18 JUMPING DERBY, Millis. appleknoll.com.

11 LIBRARY BENEFIT TRAIL RIDE, Old Sturbridge Village. (508) 347-2512.

14 – 18 SUMMER SHOWCASE I, Halifax. USEF AA-rated. showfieldstone.com.

11 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

15 – 16 GEOFF TEALL USHJA CLINIC, Buzzards Bay. grazingfields.com.

11 BRDC OPEN SHOW, Felton Field, Barre. barreridingdrivingclub.com.

15 SCHOOLING JUMPER SHOW, Plymouth. valinorfarm.com.

18 NEW ENGLAND STOCK HORSE SHOW SERIES, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. farmheritage.com.

11 HRC OPEN SHOW, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

16 USEF-, MHC-, MHJ-, NEHC-RATED HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. riverwindfarm.com.

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

11 BSTRA PLEASURE RIDE, Domnarski Farm, Ware. NEHT affiliated. bstra.org.

17 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Raynham. capecodhunter.com.

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

11 MHC SHOW, Lakeville. hollowaybrook.com.

17 HCRC OPEN SHOW, Goshen. wmhss.org.

18 BSTRA POKER RUN, Mendon. bstra.org.

11 HOT TO TROT 4-H CLUB OPEN SHOW, Middleboro. balmyacres.com.

17 SUMMER SHOW, Northfield. drybrookstables.com.

18 GRHC OPEN SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org.

18 SOUTH SHORE HORSEMEN’S COUNCIL, Raynham. sshconline.com. 18 DRESSAGE RIDE REVIEW RIDE, Pipestave Hill, West Newbury. wnrdc.com.

18 MHC HUNTER/HUNT SEAT EQUITATION SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com. 18 OPEN SCHOOLING SHOW, Rehoboth. journeyshaven@comcast.net. 20 – 24 SUMMER SHOWCASE II, Halifax. USEF AA-rated. showfieldstone.com. 21 USEF-, MHC-, MHJ-, NEHC-RATED HUNTER SHOW, Pembroke. riverwindfarm.com. 21 MINI SHOW IX, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com. 21 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com. 22 – 25 NORTHEAST SUPER SLIDE IN, West Springfield. nerha.com. 24 – 25 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Plymouth. valinorfarm.net.

Live racing now through November 2

24 BLUE RIDER STABLES FUN DAY, French Park, North Egremont. bluerider.org. 24 BIT OF LUCK SHOW, Leverett. Brenda at brosewarne13@comcast.net.

525 McClellan Highway East Boston, MA 02128

(617) 567-3900 suffolkdowns.com

24 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Harmony HIll Farm, Great Barrington. wnepha.com. 24 TEAM SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158. 25 GRHC OPEN SHOW, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org.

August/September 2013

Massachusetts Horse

1 WNEPHA, Great Barrington. wnepha.com.

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

28 HCRC OPEN GROUNDS EVENING, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.com.

25 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Twisdenwood Farm, Georgetown. northshorehorsemens.org.

28 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

25 NVH HUNTER PACE, Groton. nashobavalleyhunt.org.

28 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Marston Mills. capecodhunter.com.

25 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

31 – SEPTEMBER 1 MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, Hamilton. myopiahunt.com.

25 MASS. HUNTER JUMPER FINALS, Halifax. showfieldstone.com.

31 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158.

25 CMHSS SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net.

31 FOXHUNTING CLINIC, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.

25 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com.

31 CAPE COD HUNTER SHOW, Medway. capecodhunter.com.

25 DRESSAGE SHOW, Bradford Equestrian Center, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008.

31 – SEPTEMBER 1 MYOPIA HORSE SHOW, HAMILTON. myopiahunt.com.

25 WNEPHA BERKSHIRE HUMANE SOCIETY SHOW, Overmeade Farm, Lenox. wnepha.com.

31 – SEPTEMBER 1 BLANDFORD FAIR OPEN SHOW, Blandford. kellimarie43@yahoo.com.

8 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TEST SCHOOLING SHOW, Xenophon Farm, Montague. (413) 367-9828.

25 KLINEVIEW KORRAL 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Westfield. mass4h.org.

31 – SEPTEMBER 2 BSTRA LABOR DAY CAMP OUT, Myles Standish State Forest, Carver. bstra.org.

8 BRISTOL COUNTY 4-H AND OPEN SHOW, Holloway Brook Farm, Lakeville.

25 CRDA SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org. 25 VIRGINIA LEARY CLINIC, RER Ponies, Hatfield. rerponies.com. 25 SUMMER WRAP-UP AUCTION, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. farmheritage.com. 28 MINI SHOW X, Briggs Stable, Hanover. briggsstable.com.

August/September 2013

31 – SEPTEMBER 2 FARAH DEJOHNETTE CLINIC, Back Acres Farm, Plainfield. fdhorsemanhsip.com.

September 1 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 1 STARTER TRIALS, Millis. appleknoll.com.

1 RECOGNIZED SHOW, Lakeville. belandstables.com. 2 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158. 2 STEPHIE BAER CLINIC, cross-country. Sherborn. coursebrookfarm.com. 4 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com. 7 TEAM SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158. 7 PHOA VERSATILITY SERIES, Ten Broeck Farm, Pepperell. phoa.info. 7 – 8 HORSE TRIALS, King Oak Farm, Southampton. kingoakfarm.com.

8 SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Victory Stables, Stoughton. victorystablesinc.com. 8 HRC OPEN SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. hansonridingclub.org. 8 ONBH FALL HUNTER PACE, Carlisle. oldnorthbridgehounds.org. 8 HORSE POWER AUTUMN JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com.

Howard Schatzberg Photography

Massachusetts Morgan Horse Association presents

An Autumn Clinic September 21, 2013 Western Dressage with Cliff Swanson • Carriage Driving with Jeff Morse •

Swan Training Stables ~ Castle Rock, Colorado www.swantrainingstables.com

Green Meads Farm ~ Richmond, Massachusetts www.green.meads.com

Anatomy in Motion: The Visible Horse with Susan Harris •

Cortland, New York www.anatomyinmotion.com

Hosted by:

Sebring Stables • Dublin Road, Hancock, Massachusetts Go to MassMorgan.com for more information!

8 MHC HUNTER/HUNT SEAT EQUITATION SHOW, Haverhill. ridecornerstone.com.

14 LENOX TUB PARADE, Lenox. colonialcarriage.org.

15 NORFOLK HUNT POLO IN THE COUNTRY, Medfield. norfolkhunt.com.

8 SCHOOLING SHOW, Brewster. woodsongfarm.com.

14 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158.

15 HCRC CHESTERFIELD GORGE RIDE. hampshirecountyridingclub.com.

8 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Belchertown. independencestablellc.com.

14 HRC FIESTA DAY, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

15 HRC VERSATILITY EVENT, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

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

14 VERSATILITY EVENT, Hillside Meadows, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

8 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

14 NEECA VERSATILITY/WANNABE COWBOY CLINIC, Athol. neeca.org.

15 MHC PLEASURE HORSE SHOW AND CLASSIC FINALS, Briggs Stable, Hanover. mahorsecouncil.com.

8 RRDC FALL SHOW, Rowley. rowleyridinganddrivingclub.webs.com.

15 WNEPHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Blythewood Stables, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

8 GRHC POKER RIDE, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org.

15 HORSE TRIALS AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

8 WRC OPEN SHOW, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org.

15 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

8 DRESSAGE SHOW, New Braintree. whitesprucefarms.com.

15 WNRDC ADVENTURE TRAIL, Pipestave Hill, West Newbury. wnrdc.com.

8 WNEPHA SHOW, Blythewood Stables, Pittsfield. wnepha.com.

15 WNEPHA MHC SHOW, Biscuit Hill Farm, Shelburne. biscuithillfarm.com.

21 USEF LOCAL-RATED SHOW, West Newbury. indianmeadowfarm.com.

8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 MASSACHUSETTS STATE 4-H SHOW, Northampton. mass4h.org.

15 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Georgetown. northshorehorsemens.org.

21 AUTUMN HORSE TRIALS, Greenfield. sbschool.org/riding.

11 SUMMER JUMPER SHOW, Millis. appleknoll.com.

15 HORSE POWER HUNTER JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com.

21 MMHA AUTUMN CLINIC, Sebring Stables, Hancock. massmorgan.com.

14 R.J. SADOWSKI DAY CAMP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com.

15 BSTRA FALL HUNTER PACE, Douglas State Forest. bstra.org.

22 NEW ENGLAND STOCK HORSE SHOW SERIES, Easthampton. farmheritage.com.

August/September 2013

15 SEHA FINALS, Medway. southeasthunter.com. 15 NEW ENGLAND STOCK HORSE SHOW, Easthampton. farmheritage.com. 21 TEAM SORTING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158. 21 CCDS LENOX TUB PARADE, Lenox. colonialcarriage.org. 21 MHC SHOW, Medway. saddlerowefarm.com.

Massachusetts Horse

Western New England Professional Horsemen’s Association’s horse show series features year-end awards in many divisions including: Hunters, Pleasure, Equitation, and English and Western Dressage. Medals from Short Stirrup to 3'.

September 22 White Horse Hill

August 8 - 11 Northampton Hunter Jumper

October 5 Harmony HIll

August 18 White Horse Hill

October 13 Finals!

August 25 Berkshire Humane Society Show Overmeade Farm

October 20 Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center

November 3 Riverbank Farm

September 8 Blythewood Stables September 14 Emerald Glen

22 OPEN SHOW, Azrael Acres, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com.

NEW!

October 27 Undermountain Farm

September 1 Harmony Hill

22 SPECIAL OLYMPICS REGIONAL QUALIFIER, Lanesboro. equustherapeutic.org. 22 BSTRA PLEASURE RIDE, Erving State Forest. bstra.org.

Hunter/Equitation Shows August 4 Blythewood Stables

22 HORSE POWER AUTUMN JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com.

November 9 Stoneleigh-Burnham School

September 15 Biscuit Hill Farm

Dressage Shows August 24 Harmony Hill September 15 Blythewood Stables September 28 Emerald Glen November 3 Heritage Farm

An organization for horsemen, by horsemen.

22 SCHOOLING SHOW, Bella Rosa Stables, Wrentham. alex@bellarosastables.com. 22 GRHC GYMKHANA, Dufresne Park, Granby. granbyregionalhorse.org. 22 WRC TRAIL RIDE, Becket Land Trust Reserve. westfieldridingclub.org. 22 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org. 22 FALL CLASSIC HORSE TRIALS, Groton House Farm, Hamilton. grotonhousefarm.com. 22 NSHA HUNTER SHOW, Twisdenwood Farm, Georgetown. northshorehorsemens.org. 22 WMAA OPEN SHOW, Westfield Fairgrounds. westernmaapp.homestead.com.

wnepha.com

22 NORFOLK HUNT HUNTER PACE, Westport. norfolkhunt.com. 22 SCHOOLING TWO-PHASE AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Dracut. cutterfarm.com.

Like us on Facebook and be entered to win treats! When North Woods Animal Treats’ Facebook page reaches 1,000 “likes” we’ll give a pound of Nickers Horse Treats to one lucky “liker.” Personalize your horse show awards with your own horse treats. Put your show’s logo and message on the treat packaging. “I got some of your treats as a present and my horses just loved them!" "These treats are a great size. They fit easily into a pocket and are one bite. Perfect for getting those ears up during in-hand classes." “The best prize I won were the Nickers Horse Treats! It rewarded my partner, and I love that!” Official horse show treat of the Silver Oaks Jumper Tournament.

NICKERS HORSE TREATS Handmade, human-grade treats flavored with real maple syrup. Made locally, enjoyed around the world.

NICKERS HORSE TREATS 54

August/September 2013

www.northwoodsanimaltreats.com . (877) 692-6928

Massachusetts Horse

22 MASSQHA TRAIL RIDE, Waters Farm, Sutton. massqha.com.

29 IEA HUNT SEAT SHOW, Easthampton. farmheritage.com.

6 HRC SUPREME INVITATIONAL, Balmy Acres, Middleboro. hansonridingclub.org.

22 WNEPHA SHOW, White Horse Hill, Richmond. wnepha.com.

29 POLO MATCH, South Hamilton. myopiapolo.org.

6 SORTING, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com.

25 HCRC OPEN GROUNDS EVENING, Goshen. hampshirecountyridingclub.com.

29 EVENTING DERBY CROSS, Southampton. kingoakfarm.com.

27 – 29 MHC DAYS OF CHAMPIONS, Northampton. mahorsecouncil.com.

29 BEO MCDONALD PRESERVE RIDE, Wilbraham. belchertownequineorg.com.

27 – 29 BRYAN NEUBERT CLINIC, Marion. stonetreeacres@hotmail.com.

29 CRDA SCHOOLING SHOW, Apple Knoll Farm, Millis. crdressage.org.

28 – 29 CMHSS SHOW, Camp Marshall, Spencer. cmhss.net.

October

6 NETSA SHOW, Medway. northeastthoroughbred.com.

28 TEAM PENNING, Acushnet. chipawaystables.com or (508) 763-5158.

4 – 6 NORTH SHORE COACHING WEEKEND, Hamilton. myopiahunt.com.

6 RRDC TWO PHASE & DRESSAGE SHOW, Rowley. rowleyridinganddrivingclub.webs.com.

28 BIT OF LUCK SHOW, Leverett. Brenda at brosewarne13@comcast.net.

5 MASSACHUSETTS HORSE BENEFIT SHOW, Goshen. Over $8,000 in prizes. $100 and $200 Classics. Sixteen divisions. Dayend championships. To benefit Blue Star Equiculture. See ad on page 7. mahorse.com.

6 BSTRA RIDE, Hubbardston. bstra.org.

29 SORTING, Grafton. hillside-meadows.com. 29 BENEFIT GYMKHANA, Lanesboro. equustherapeutic.org. 29 HRC B.E.A.C.H. BENEFIT RIDE, Marshfield. (781) 724-3031. 29 DRESSAGE SHOW, Haverhill. (978) 374-0008. 29 HORSE POWER DRESSAGE SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com. 29 STARTER HORSE TRIALS, Harwich. truenortheventing.com.

6 HORSE TRIALS, West Newbury. wnrdc.com. 6 SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Victory Stables, Stoughton. victorystablesinc.com. 6 HORSE POWER AUTUMN JUMPER SHOW, Southbridge. wildairefarm.com. 6 NEECA FALL TRAIL RIDE, Athol. neeca.org.

6 R.J. SADOWSKI EQUITATION WORKSHOP, Plainfield. peacehavenfarm.com. 6 WRC FUN DAY AND STEAK ROAST, Westfield. westfieldridingclub.org. 6 HDA SCHOOLING SHOW, Briggs Stable, Hanover. heritage-dressage.org.

6 HORSE TRIALS AND DRESSAGE SHOW, Uxbridge. azraelacres.com. 6 BLUE RIDER STABLES SHOW, South Egremont. bluerider.org. 6 GRHC FALL FOLIAGE RIDE, Southampton. granbyregionalhorse.org. 11 – 13Want JONyour ENSIGN CLINIC, Heritage Farm, Massachusetts event Easthampton. farmheritage.com.6 WNEPHA SHOW,listed Harmony Hill, Great Barrington. here? wnepha.com.

It’s free!

6 FALL ROUND-UP AUCTION, Heritage Farm, Easthampton. farmheritage.com.

Just email your event details to events@mahorse.com. k kDAY kCAMP, k k 12 R.J. SADOWSKI Plainfield.

Do you want a Calm, Connected, and Responsive Partner? Helping to make your dreams come true!

Licensed Parelli Professional 3 Star Instructor and Horse Specialist

Avery Gauthier Located in Massachusetts and traveling to all of New England.

averysavvyrhodeisland.com 56

August/September 2013

(401) 418-0220

Farah Clinic e t t e n h DeJo - Sept. 2) nd (Aug. 31

Labor Day

Weeke

Holistic Horse Center

ation, communic nnection, co r u . yo amentals Improve and FUN!d vels welcome. le d oils, an nes h essential All dicipli n will teac other o d sh an er , ab ay aH aweeds, cl on. se Also Fion e, ga al ti herbs, r self-selec medicinal medies fo natural re ip.com rsemansh Visit fdho ation. rm fo in for more

You belong at Back Acres Farm if you: • Like a friendly, supportive atmosphere. • Want holistic-based, customized care for your horse. • Seek unique and sought-after natural instruction and training. • Bright and airy 12 x 12 stalls with Equi-foam floors. • New indoor arena, large outdoor ring. • Ample grass turnout, individualized care. • Tack room, viewing room. • Owner in residence.

• Lots of trails on property and in adjacent state forest. • Just 20 miles from Northampton, Greenfield, and Pittsfield. • Retirement services

Back Acres Farm Equine Facility & Boarding Stable, Plainfield, Mass. (413) 634-5686 . www.backacresfarm.com

Specializing in Lay Up, Broodmare & Retirement Boarding Large pasture turnout in a herd with rotational grazing. Certified organic with NOFA-NY. We have been working around horses our whole lives and have a lifetime of experience in animal husbandry. Please refer to our website to find out more about our facility and what we have to offer your horse. Any questions, please call or send an email.

The Ortensi Farm & Equestrian Center Berni Joseph Ortensi & Greg Ortensi . Richfield Springs, New York . (315) 858-2634 or (413) 348-9024

www.theortensifarm.com

berni@theortensifarm.com Massachusetts Horse

Massachusetts marketplace North Quabbin Region Equestrian Property Under ct. contra e to m ct Conta our sell y farm! Comfy 9/4/2 farmhouse on 26 acres has stone fireplace and lots of room for guests/workers. Sturdy post and beam vintage barn has 12 stalls, foaling stall, feed and tack rooms. Storage for hundreds of hay bales and shavings bags, hay elevator. Newer indoor arena is huge, light, bright — large, for jumping, driving, barrels, and more. Attached 11 matted stalls and storage space. Tractor/workshop sheds. Outdoor dressage arena. Lovely fields, trails, little orchard, and pond complete the picture. $385,000.

Althea Bramhall,Hometown Realtors 617-678-9300,althearealtor@gmail.com

White Spruce Farms Where Learning to Ride is Fun!

Summer Camps . Games Nights . All Levels & Ages Riding lessons for those who want to compete or just have fun.

MARILYN LEARY, REALTOR 800.859.2745, EXT 709 MARILYN@EQUINEHOMES.COM

Dressage Shows Musical Freestyle, Prix Caprilli, and traditional USDF tests.

August 11 - Adults Only! (judge Susan Rainville) Show benefits WSF’s lesson scholarship fund for junior riders. Intro to 2nd level, new riders test, western, trail, and Prix Caprilli.

September 8 (judge Ann Marie Gregoire) October 20 (judge Nancy Young) plus Costume Class! Susan Rainville – instructor, trainer, USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist

New Braintree, MA

800 . 859 . 2745

Independence Stable, LLC

’

Dressage Schooling Shows

Proudly serving the Pioneer Valley for over 25 years.

Including Lead Line and Western Dressage Tests!

Complete Wellness Care including Dental, Lameness, and Reproduction

August 11 . September 8 Lessons . Training . Boarding . Clinics

Belchertown, MA (413) 284-0371 independencestablellc.com 58

(978) 257-4666

whitesprucefarms.com

WWW.E QUINE H OMES . COM

August/September 2013

Boarding Available Indoor Arena . Outdoor Sand Ring Individual Lockers . Jumping Field Round pens . Grass Pastures Quiet, Friendly Atmosphere

16 David St., Southampton, MA (413) 527-0333

State of the Art Digital Radiography

John L. Cowley, M.S., D.V.M. P.O. Box 1019, Easthampton, Mass.

(413) 527-4414 thehorsedoctor@verizon.net

Massachusetts marketplace

Free, aid p . agepost available rs te maile ur websi n. See o rmatio fo for in

978-425-6181 cAll us first

MAnure reMovAl for lArge & sMAll fArMs roll-off containers 10 to 30 yards on call or scheduled service. full stock pile removals. • Barn/outbuilding demo & removal • fencing demo & replacement Proud Sponsor of Bear Spot Musical Freestyle and the Oakrise Farm Show Series.

www.mitranoremoval.com

Recovery . Maintenance . Performance Therapeutic Massage . Bodywork . Reiki

Jo Bunny licensed massage therapist, certified equine massage therapist

(413) 320-7690 • jobunny@comcast.net

Dressage training facility, Monson, Mass. “R” Dressage Judge; FEI Trainer/Competitor; Lessons, clinics, German imported horses for sale. Indoor/outdoor arenas, all day turnout.

www.deeloveless.com

(860) 208-6017 . deeloveless2@comcast.net

Massachusetts Horse

the

neighborhood

ARTIST ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• J. T. HARDING East Walpole, MA, (508) 404-5883 www.jtharding.com Equine fine art and portraiture. ASSOCIATIONS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BAY STATE TRAIL RIDERS ASSOC. Douglas, MA, (508) 476-3960 www.bstra.org Preserving trails, pleasure/competitive rides. HAMPSHIRE COUNTY RIDING CLUB Goshen, MA, (413) 268-3372 hampshirecounty ridingclub.org Monthly trail rides, shows, gymkhana, educational speakers. BARN CATS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• PAWS WATCH Newport, RI, (401) 848-9867 www.pawswatch.org Barn cats need homes! Healthy, fixed, vaccinated barn cats provide rodent contol. Delivered! CLIPPER SHARPENING ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• THE SHARPENING SHOP New Bedford, MA, (774) 992-7355 kleenkut007@gmail.com Clipper and shear sharpening by mail. EDUCATION ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• EQUISSAGE NEW ENGLAND/NY Sterling, CT, (860) 564-7759 www.equissage-ne-ny.com Equine sports massage therapy certification. EQUINE DENTISTRY ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WENDY BRYANT, EQDT Northampton, MA, (413) 237-8887 www.ravenhillequine.com Natural balance equine dentistry. Improved topline, maximized performance, increased flexion. Serving New England/New York. DILLON’S EQUINE DENTISTRY Yarmouth, ME, (508) 528-2242 www.dilloneq.com 20+ years, servicing New England. ANDREW MORTIMER, EQDT Plainfield, MA, (413) 634-5656 amanda@bcn.net Health, performance floating, extractions. EQUINE ENTERTAINMENT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• DALE PERKINS/MESA FARM Rutland, MA, (508) 886-6898 www.daleperkinshorseshow.com Trick riding and much more. EQUINE MASSAGE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• EQUINE SPORTS THERAPIES Brooklyn, CT, (860) 774-8027 www.equinesportstherapies.com Massage, digital thermography, aromatherapy, Reiki. EQUISSAGE NE/NY Serving New England, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Certified Masterson Method practitioner, certified Equissage instructors, certified Equissage practitioners, Equine Bodywork, Myofascial Release, Infrared Photon Light Therapy, and Reiki. HORSEBACK AND BODY Northampton, MA, (413) 320-7690 jobunny@comcast.net Massage therapy for horses, humans.

August/September 2013

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

EVENTING ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• APPLE KNOLL FARM Millis, MA, (508) 376-2564 www.appleknoll.com Cross-country schooling, training, lessons, sales. COURSE BROOK FARM Sherborn, MA, (508) 655-9318 coursebrookfarm.com Eventing, dressage, boarding, crosscountry schooling, clinics, shows. HAFLINGERS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• SOMMER HILL FARM Adams, MA, (413) 743-9301 sommerhaflingers@yahoo.com One Haflinger is never enough. HORSES FOR SALE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable. Supplying NE with horses and ponies since 1967. Forty family, trail, and show horses to choose from. New loads every week. We buy horses, take trade-ins and consignment horses. Great three-week exchange guarantee. Find us on Facebook.

CORINTHIAN INSURANCE AGENCY Medway, MA, (877) 250-5103 www.corinthianequine.com Equine protection specialists. DON RAY INSURANCE Marshfield, MA, (781) 837-6550 www.donrayinsurance.com Farm, mortality, major medical and surgical, clubs, shows, instructors. JUDGES ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• MARY BRAZIE Egremont, MA, (413) 528-2367 arabpinto13@yahoo.com Judging open, 4-H. Lessons, boarding. CARRIE CRANSTON Ashfield, MA, (413) 628-0152 equine79@msn.com 4-H, open shows, carded, references. ED GOLEMBESKI Gill, MA, (413) 863-2313 riker119@comcast.net 4-H, open shows, clinics, lessons. KAREN VON BACHELLE South Windsor, CT, (860) 528-8027 bachelle@cox.net USEF “r” and NEHC H/HE/J.

HORSE RETIREMENT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• GREEN ACRES RETIREMENT FARM Deansboro, NY, (914) 414-7872 greenacresretirementfarm.com Boarding packages starting at $225/mo.

LOANS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FARM CREDIT EAST Middleboro, MA, (800) 946-0506 farmcrediteast.com Loans for equestrian facilities, farms, bare land, home sites. Equipment loans and leases.

INSTRUCTION/TRAINING ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• LISL DONALDSON Palmer, MA, (413) 283-3706 woodenhorsefarm.com Equine-assisted therapies, camps, lessons.

MINIATURE HORSES, SUPPLIES ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• STAR LAKES MINIATURE TACK Atlasburg, PA, (724) 947-9939 www.starlakefarm.com Complete line of Miniature horse tack.

FAIRFIELD FARM Rochester, MA, (508) 763-3224 dressageatfairfieldfarm.com Boarding, instruction, training, indoor.

NORWEGIAN FJORDS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE HERON FARM Charlemont, MA, (413) 339-4045 www.blueheronfarm.com Quality, purebred registered Fjords.

HORSE-MIND-SHIP - RJ SADOWSKI Plainfield, MA, (413) 634-8800 www.peacehavenfarm.com Clinics, colt starting, farm visits. NANCY LATER LAVOIE Ashby, MA, (561) 714-7447 nancylaterdressagehorses.com Dressage training level to Grand Prix. DEE LOVELESS Monson, MA, (860) 208-6017 www.deeloveless.com Full-service dressage training facility. MORNING LIGHT FARM Brimfield, MA, (413) 563-3477 morninglightfarm.net Boarding, training, clinics, indoor, trails. PINEHAVEN FARM Hubbardston, MA, (978) 928-5492 parmenterdressage.com Dressage, clinics, boarding, training, sales. INSURANCE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE BRIDLE INSURANCE AGENCY Pittstown, NJ, (800) 526-1711 www.bluebridle.com Equine insurance solutions since 1982.

PHOTOGRAPHY ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• MIG EQUINE Erving, MA, (413) 824-0922 moments-in-grace-photography.com Farm shoots, advertising, portraits, fineart photography, event coverage. REAL ESTATE ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• EQUINE HOMES — MARILYN LEARY Oakham, MA, (800) 859-2745 x 709 Specializing in equestrian, country properties. BERNICE GIARD, REALTOR/BROKER Oakham, MA, (508) 882-3900 oakham@charter.net Country properties. RIDING APPAREL ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• COUNTRYSIDE FARM RIDING APPAREL Sterling, MA, (978) 235-4004 www.countrysideridingapparel.com Custom and in-stock riding apparel, equestrian jewelry, JPC dealer, used apparel, consignments welcome.

STABLES, FARMS, BOARDING ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• EMERALD FARM Bellingham, MA, (508) 966-2482 www.smithlyndequine.com Dressage, eventing, hunter, boarding, lessons, training, leases. GLENCROFT FARM Southampton, MA, (413) 527-8026 kraymond24@hotmail.com Boarding, pastures, ring, trails, fields. SUMMER CAMPS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• MOUNTAIN TOP INN & RESORT Chittenden, VT, (802) 483-2311 www.mountaintopinn.com Adults, children, camps, overnight accommodations. VERSHIRE RIDING SCHOOL Vershire, VT, (802) 685-2239 www.vershireridingschool.com Eventing, children, adult programs. TACK AND HARNESSES ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUEBIRD MEADOWS FARM N. Granby, CT, (860) 844-8689 www.bluebirdmeadowsfarm.com Mobile shop. Buy/sell new/used tack. TACK, BLANKET, HARNESS REPAIR ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BLUE DOG LEATHER (978) 544-2681 www.bluedogleather.com Quality repairs and custom work. JENN’S TACK & BLANKET SERVICE (978) 340-5576 jennstackrepair@comcast.net Blanket cleaning, repair. Used blankets and tack for sale. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FAVREAU FORESTRY Sterling, MA, (978) 706-1038 favreauforestry.com Removal of vegetation encroachments; manure. VETERINARIANS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FAMILY VETERINARY CENTER Haydenville, MA, (413) 268-8387 famvets.com Traditional and alternative care for dogs, cats, exotics, and horses. AMY J. RUBIN, DVM Sunderland, MA, (413) 549-5511 rubinaj69@yahoo.com Wellness and lameness exams, vaccinations, dentistry, emergencies. DR. ROBERT P. SCHMITT S. Deerfield, MA, (413) 665-3626 sdvc@aol.com Equine medicine, surgery since 1969. VIDEO/DVD PRODUCTION ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ZZ CREATIVE VIDEO PRODUCTIONS Fitchburg, MA, (978) 345-7250 www.zzcreativevideo.com Horse show/events documentation, reasonable, professional, experienced.

advertiser index A Horse Drawn Affair ................... 41 Angel View Pet Cemetery ........... 63 Apple Knoll Farm ........................ 47 Aubuchon Hardware .................. 37 Avery Gauthier ........................... 56 Azrael Acres ............................... 61 Back Acres Farm ......................... 57 Back Bay Farm .............................. 11 Bacon’s Equipment .................... 22 Barefoot Performance ................ 33 Blarney Stone Acres .................... 12 Bluebird Meadows Farm ............ 44 Blue Dog Leather ........................ 10 Blue Heron Farm ......................... 10 Blue Rider Stables ...................... 45 Blue Seal Feed .......................... 62 The Carriage Shed ....................... 2 Cavalia Odysseo ........................... 4 Century Mill Stables .................... 31 The Cheshire Horse ..................... 19 Chipaway Stables ....................... 22 Country Corral ........................... 22 Dillon’s Equine Dentistry ............ 36 Dion Tack .................................... 27 Don Ray Insurance Agency ........ 23 Equine Affaire ............................. 49 Equissage ................................... 43 Fairview Farms JJC ...................... 13 Family Veterinary Center ............ 25 Farm Credit East .......................... 13 Farm Family Insurance ................ 55 Fox Meadow Farm ...................... 30 Hampshire County Riding Club ... 47 Heritage Farm ............................. 21 Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center ............................ 23, 27 Interscholastic Equestrian Association ............................ 15 It’s a Pleasure Training .............. 39

Jay Noone .................................. 21 Jenn’s Tack and Blanket Service . 37 Joey Stetz Farrier Service ........... 44 King Oak Farm ............................ 30 Lamore Lumber ........................... 44 The Mane Place .......................... 36 Massachusetts Horse Benefit Show . 7 Mass. Morgan Horse Assoc. ........ 51 Mindful Connections .................. 11 The Mountain Top Inn & Resort ... 52 Natural Balance Equine Dentistry . 24 New England Equine Medical and Surgical Center ...................... 16 Northwoods Nickers Horse Treats . 54 On the Road Trailers .................. 43 Orion Farm .................................. 61 The Ortensi Farm ....................... 57 Peace Haven Farm ..................... 36 Ponytail ...................................... 50 Purina Mills ............................... 53 Ravenhill Equine Wellness Center . 25 Serenity Hill Stable ...................... 22 SmartPak Saddlery ..................... 35 Sons of the Wind ......................... 64 Suffolk Downs ............................. 48 Sunny Banks Ranch .................... 44 Take Off Stables ......................... 38 Three County Fair ....................... 46 Triple Crown ................................. 3 Wachusett Equestrian Team ....... 29 W. B. Mason Co., Inc. ................. 44 Western New England Professional Horsemen’s Association ....... 54 Wild Aire Farm ........................... 46 Xenophon Farm .......................... 45 Yered Trailers ............................. 45

Laura Solod

is this your horse?

Is this your horse? This photo was taken at the June Norfolk County 4-H Show at Eight Fences Farm, in Mansfield. If this is your horse, contact us at win@mahorse.com for a month’s supply of SmartPaks and more from Massachusetts’ very own SmartPak, smartpak.com. The June/July winner was 12-year-old Abby Niles, of Sherborn, and her POA mare, Sabrina.

Open Horse Shows: August 4

. September 22

Champion and Reserve in all Divisions. Year-end awards banquet.

Horse Trials & Dressage: Sept. 15

. Oct. 6

Pre-elementary through Novice. Visit www.azraelacres.com for class lists, brochures, and more information.

Lessons ~ Sales ~ Boarding 144 Williams St., Uxbridge, Mass. (508) 234-2678 . azraelacres.com

Orion Farm Wherere Stars A ! Born

MASSAChUSETTS . FLORIDA

ESTABLIShED 1988

If you want to be the best, you have to train with the best! Local to national champions, we can help you reach all of your riding goals. All levels of lessons available for ages 4 and up, plus adults. Quality horses and ponies for sale or lease. Boarding, training, and showing.

S. Hadley . (413) 532-9753 . www.OrionFarm.net Massachusetts Horse

Amherst Farmer’s Supply 320 Pleasant St., Amherst (413) 253-3436 amherstfarmerssupply.com A.W. Brown Pet & Garden Center 144 Shaker Rd., E. Longmeadow (413) 525-2115 . awbrown.com Bernardston Farmer’s Supply 43 River St., Bernardston (413) 648-9311 bernardstonfarmerssupply.com

August/September 2013

Brattleboro Agway 1277 Putney Rd. Brattleboro, VT (802) 254-8757 . achilleagway.net

Essex County Co-op 146 S. Main St., Topsfield (978) 887-2309 . essexcountycoop.net

Robbins Garden Center 28 Sutton Ave., Oxford (508) 987-2700 . robbinsgarden.com

Bridgewater Farm Supply 1000 Plymouth St., Bridgewater (508) 697-0357 . bridgewaterfarm.com

Ferestein Feed 360 Central St., Foxboro (508) 543-3613

Sweet Meadow Feed & Grain 111 Coolidge St., Sherborn (508) 650-2926 sweetmeadowfeedandgrain.com

Country Corral 35 Main St., Williamsburg (413) 268-0180 . countrycorralonline.com

Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange Rte. 32, Gilbertville (800) 322-4329 . hardwickfarmers.net

Erikson’s Grain Mill 113 Main St., Acton (978) 263-4733

Morrisons Home & Garden 90 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth (508) 746-0970 morrisonshomeandgarden.com

Thibault’s Poultry 92 N. Spencer Rd. Spencer (508) 885-3959

Over 30 Years of Service

Cremains available to family within 72 hours.

Massachusetts Horse

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID FULTON, MO PERMIT

#38