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Photographer Amanda Ubell, courtesy of Skijor Canada
Amber Zierath, Melody GarnerSkiba, Laureen James, Patricia E. Skinner, Hoof Geeks, Britain MillsDawes, Horsey Ladies Okanagan, Horse Council British Columbia, & Club News
ello Saddle Up readers and riders, Happy 2025! We wish you and your horses an amazing year ahead! This month we are thrilled to feature Skijor Canada and their talented riders, sliders, and horses! Snow, horses, trick-sliders, edgy frocks, and the Rocky Mountains—need we say more? Laureen James's article "When Push Comes to Shove—Side Passing" features interviews with industry professionals Hailey Prest and Wendy Martin, and Britain Mills-Dawes gets the year started with key areas to refresh with your horse. Amber Zierath interviews Jump Canada Hall of Fame Inductee Jennifer Courchesne, taking us on the journey of a professional groom. We also have great sole tips from Hoof Geeks and Are You Coyote Smart? with Patricia E. Skinner. Watch for Saddle Up Out & About; we'll see you around!
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Shredding
Through the Snow
Quintessentially Canadiana is an exhibition displaying what makes Canuck stock so iconic
HBy Amber Zierath
arnessing the snow and cold and dressed in edgy frocks while noshing on steamy fondue is a crew of champion equestrians and medaled snow riders partaking in a truly captivating sport. Powdered snow is packed onto a carefully cultivated course of jumps and obstacles. Horses blaze a well-crafted trail, reshaping snowflakes they’ve kicked up as they run at top speed with the ambition of impressing an animated crowd. Spectators chomp at the bit to witness impressively fashioned skiers in tow behind the racing equestrians, slicing through a snow track before the horse’s top speeds launch skiers over a jump, instigating impressive tricks. This adrenaline-stoking event uniting athletes of differing breeds is called skijoring.
Skijoring: noun—the action of being pulled over snow or ice on skis by a horse or dog or a motor vehicle, as a sport or recreation activity.
The seasonal sport of skijoring is quickly gaining traction for being a must-do winter exhibition for spectators and participants throughout North America. Skijoring, a Norwegian word for ski-driving, is believed to have originated in Scandinavia. In that part of the world, they hold a harness to ski behind horses, dogs, and even reindeer. Special to the North American style of skijoring is a rider on the horse with a skier or snowboarder in tow.
Sam Mitchell founded Skijor Canada in 2017. Swiss traditions were prevalent in Sam’s life from living in Switzerland for 7 years. The initiation of Skijor Canada happened after Sam moved back to Alberta and stemmed from her adoration of fondue, skiing, and horses. The first-ever Skijor event Sam hosted was by invitation only and meant to include just twelve people. The entry fee for this intimate gathering was cheese. However, word of this unique winter party spread, and sixty-five people crashed it. “It was a blast,” said Sam. From here, Sam decided to set it up as a fundraiser and thought potentially one hundred people would attend. To her astonishment, eight hundred people packed the venue. Skijor Canada events have grown exponentially each year since their inception and continue to do so.
The first public event in Banff was in 2020 and hugely popular. Sam says, “Our first year in Banff was accomplished by sixteen dedicated volunteers’ hand-shovelling snow onto the racecourse, fuelled by fudge and whisky until 3:00 am.” The volunteers brought it all together. The Skijor Canada events in Banff are truly the product of masterful visionaries. This exhibition attracts fans by the masses, literally, which induces a potent vibrancy ricocheting from horse to snow-slider to spectator. Snow is sure to splatter on one’s body, but that adds to the heat of it all. And the overall energy mimics a hammering heart, expertly dispensing high-octane adrenaline and exhilaration to anyone within proximity. This exhibition is truly served its justice when witnessed in person.
Cover Photo and Top photo by Amanda Ubell, Bottom HR Photo by billie duff jean
It’s important for each Skijor racecourse to have a good base of snow plus textured snow on top, ensuring the horses have the best footing. Each racecourse is intricately designed by long-time skijorer Claire Perks. Before anyone runs each racecourse, Sam runs it with her own horse to test it out. Careful consideration is placed on each angle, camber, and time for slowing down to ensure each horse will be safe and sound. The course for Banff Snow Days is a straight shot race with obstacles and kicker jumps for flipping snow riders. In Banff Snow Days, the horses run straight, and the skiers are the ones shifting on the course. There are not specified guidelines for a skijor racecourse; it evolves from sheer ingenuity and imagination.
Wolter van der Kamp & Gaucho
Fashioned with a Cowichan sweater, woolly chaps, and his very own home-made moccasins, Wolter van der Kamp is a competitor in the 2025 Banff Skijoring event for the third year.
“There’s a rush with riding fast, especially down Main Street in Banff,” said Wolter.
The camaraderie and amalgamation of people from differing walks of life is a large part of things for him, too. Gaucho is a thirteen-year-old Quarter Horse, described as very social, and Wolter’s go-to skijoring mount. This horse is outfitted with studded shoes for top performance on the snowy course. His love of running and attention from spectators when blazing through Banff is a highlight for Gaucho. Wolter indicates the importance of teaching the horses of skijor to not fear the rope, or the skier behind them, as they may feel like they’re being chased, or the slap of the rope can spook them. Since Gaucho is such a reliable horse, he and Wolter are typically paired with green snow-riders, or, due to Gaucho’s speed, they tow a skier that wants to do the big tricks and needs speed to line up for that. A funny
trailblazers have incorporated an additional element to this exhilarating sport— unprecedented fashion. “I absolutely love the juxtaposition of fashion at our Skijor events,” says Sam. Skijor Canada style is a blend of après ski, cowboy, and alpine. “The mash-up of fashion is interesting and makes it a key component of the exhibition,” said Sam. Textures and materials of the fashion expand awareness of how competitors are moving through the course; differing clothing fibres lend to the visual of how fast these races are.
Top LH photo by Amanda Ubell, Top RH photo by Billie Jean Duff
LH photo by Robert Massey/Banff & Lake Louise Tourism, RH photo by Amanda ubell
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Young Guns Colt Starting Challenge
A New Frontier for Aspiring Trainers
In a groundbreaking partnership between Rocking Heart Ranch and Horse Expo Canada, the equine world is set to witness the debut of the Young Guns Colt Starting Challenge, a fusion of two time-tested formats designed to spotlight the next generation of horse trainers. This innovative event will take place at Rocking Heart Ranch from September 26-28, 2025, promising an exciting and educational experience for participants and spectators alike.
A Legacy of Excellence
Horse Expo Canada is renowned for its annual Trainer's Showdown, a three-day event in April that consistently attracts world-class talent. Past participants have included legendary names like Glenn Stewart, Pat Parelli, and Dustin Sippola, setting a high standard for colt-starting challenges. This celebrated event showcases the skills of seasoned trainers as they compete to gentle and start young horses under saddle, demonstrating expertise that captivates horse enthusiasts from around the globe.
In addition to the competition, the event offers a chance to tour the ranch and meet the dams and sires of the horses involved in the challenge. It’s a rare opportunity to see the lineage and breeding program that Rocking Heart Ranch is known for.
A Community Experience
The Young Guns Challenge isn’t just for trainers—it’s a community event designed to engage horse enthusiasts of all levels.
Shop, explore a curated selection of vendors offering equine products, gear, and more. Dine, enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks. Learn, gain insights into colt starting and horsemanship by observing top young trainers in action.
To make the event accessible to everyone, details about ticketing and camping will be released after March 1, 2025. Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions about the challenge at the 2025 Horse Expo, ensuring they’re well-prepared to make the most of this unique experience.
The overarching goal of the Young Guns Challenge is to recognize and promote the next generation of trainers. These talented individuals represent the future of horsemanship, and events like this provide a platform for them to gain exposure, build their reputations, and connect with the broader equestrian community. By inviting the winner to compete at the prestigious Trainer's Showdown, Rocking Heart Ranch and Horse Expo Canada are fostering a pathway for emerging trainers to transition into the ranks of the industry’s elite. This initiative not only highlights individual talent but also strengthens the overall culture of mentorship and growth within the equestrian world.
Rocking Heart Ranch
Applications for the Young Guns Colt Starting Challenge are now open, with a deadline of March 1, 2025. Aspiring trainers can apply by visiting rockingheartranchltd.com
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old by the time of entry. Operate a business focused on colt starting. Maintain an active online presence to engage with the equestrian community
After a rigorous selection process, up to five trainers will be chosen to compete. These individuals will be announced prior to the 2025 Horse Expo Trainer's Showdown Finale, giving the public a chance to meet the competitors and follow their journeys on social media.
The competition will feature a remuda of 2-year-old horses, all owned by Rocking Heart Ranch. Each trainer will draw a horse and begin the process of starting it under saddle. Over the course of the event, trainers will spend a minimum of four sessions working with their horses in the round pen. Their progress will be judged in a final competition, showcasing their ability to build trust, communicate effectively, and lay the groundwork for a successful future with the horse.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring back an opportunity to highlight the amazing horse training talent we have coming up with the Young Guns Challenge. We are grateful for our partner, Horse Expo, which also understands the importance of building the equine industry.”- Melody Garner-Skiba, Rocking Heart Ranch.
Horse Expo
“Promoting the next generation of trainers is important to us as it helps build the equine community, which is why we started Horse Expo. We are excited to see the “Young Guns” in action and to invite the winner to the 2026 Trainer’s Showdown.” -Ryan Gordon, Horse Expo Canada
The Young Guns Colt Starting Challenge is set to be a landmark event in 2025, bringing together tradition, innovation, and community in a celebration of horsemanship. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or new to the world of horses, this event promises something for everyone.
Don’t miss this chance to witness the future of colt starting in action and support the next generation of trainers as they make their mark in the equestrian world.
When Push Comes to Shove
SIDEPASSING
Moving sideways off the rider’s leg aid isn’t something that comes naturally to horses. Natural instincts tell the horse to push back against the rider’s leg. If you watch a herd of pasture horses at feeding time, you will see them jockey for position around the feeder. Horses rely on pushing each other out of the way so they get a good spot to munch on their hay. So, when we begin to train a horse to move its body sideways in a sidepass from a one-sided leg pressure, we run into resistance behaviours. Head tossing, tail swishing, maybe even panic or kicking out is often the result of our first few attempts. The harder we press or kick, the more the horse leans against us and becomes frustrated.
Have you ever had someone poke you in the ribs? Think about how you mentally and physically responded. Your body went into protection mode by stiffening with a lot of tension. Mentally you likely wanted to return the poke with a punch. When teaching horses of any age to move sideways off a leg pressure, some preparatory work could help alleviate trauma for both you and your horse. Here are two professionals explaining the importance of the sidepass and how they teach it to horses.
Hailey Prest
By Laureen James
From barrel racing and trick riding to being a stunt double and being a graduate of the Down Under Horsemanship Academy, Hailey is a very accomplished horse trainer. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and helping horse owners reach their personal goals. She is based out of Abbotsford, British Columbia.
“I
am a firm believer in a good foundation. Getting that foundation may not always be the most exciting or exhilarating, but they form the basis of your overall riding experience.”
Yield the Hind Quarters
“Yielding the hindquarters is a must for me in my program. I use this exercise daily with my horses from when I feed them, catch them, and tie them up anywhere, and while I do groundwork. When I can just turn my head and look at my horse’s hindquarters and they give me two eyes, I know I have a willing, respectful partner."
Yielding the Forequarters
Yielding the forequarters is an exercise that will come into play when you are teaching your horses other exercises in the future, so I like to set my horses up to succeed by teaching them the very basics first. How I do this exercise is I pick a side I want to start on. So, let’s say I’m on the left side of my horse. I stand about a foot or two away with my belly button in line with the horse’s left eye. I use a stick and string and change my body language from passive to assertive by leaning forward and making little tapping motions in the air above my horse’s eye (little is the key word here). When the left front foot crosses over the right front foot, I go back to using passive body language. I rub my horse to let it know it gave me the right answer. As the horse gets better at the exercise, I try to use less assertive body language. I might just lean towards them, like I’m demonstrating in the picture below.
The reason you want to use a stick and string is because the horses tend to lift their heads and necks up, not moving their feet, and put their heads and necks over you. Having a stick and string ensures that you can be taller than your horse and won’t allow them to put their head over you.
Wendy Martin
“We work with the horse, not on the horse.”
The Masterson Method® is an integrated, multi-modality method of equine massage and bodywork that allows the horse to release deep, accumulated pain and tension in muscles and connective tissue. As a practitioner of The Masterson Method®, Wendy helps many horses as well as teaching horse owners. She offers interactive demos and workshops. She is located in Ponoka, AB.
continued with Wendy "�iders often forget that there are training steps when teaching a horse to correctly sidepass. �o begin, riders should teach their horses to move one end of their body at a time with rhythm."
�nly ask for one step at a time so you don’t overwhelm or confuse the horse. �nce the horse is capable of understanding that the rider’s leg or heel pressed gently and slightly forward, on one side only, means move your shoulders over one step, then you can ask for two steps. �uilding your horse�s ability by only adding one more step at a time will keep your horse from panicking or getting upset.
Next, pressing with your leg or heel slightly back behind the cinch means moving the hindquarters. Again, practice getting one good, confident step, then slowly add more steps. �emember that your leg pressure is light and that you should never kick the horse� it’s not a punishment� it’s a cue.
�ip��houlder��ip��houlder in a se�uence
straightness throughout the head, neck, and body in a sidepass. Again, only ask for one step at a time and build more steps as the horse is willing and able.
�here you have it� two professionals’ advice on teaching the sidepass. �idepassing is an important skill because it teaches body control, suppleness, and mental focus. It’s a fundamental exercise that will allow you to open and shut gates, manoeuvre your horse in and out of tight spots, and make it fun to ride. You can increase the skill level and challenge yourself and your horse’s ability to negotiate obstacles using creative sidepassing exercises.
Article by Laureen James BCom, Journalist, EC/NCCP Coach Certification IOB. Laureen is an equine journalist who writes for many publications. She also writes for the pet industry and is a columnist for Unison 50+ News. She has covered rodeos and related events over the past few years as a journalist and photographer. Photo credit: Lori Hoppe for Wendy Martin's photo. Photo Credit: Down Under Horsemanship for Hailey Prest's photo.
Laureen and Punch moving shoulders, moving hindquarters, and sidepassing
DOG TIP OF THE MONTH
LCourtsey of Harmony Farm Kennel and Lamb
Are you coyote smart?
iving on a rural farm, located at Monte Lake, happily surrounded by crown land, I see my share of wildlife. Herds of deer and elk, the odd bear and moose are common; however, coyotes are always present and apparently enjoy country living just as much as I do! Operating a custom care dog boarding kennel, I have become very savvy as to how coyotes think, act, and ‘play.’ I appreciate this opportunity to help dog owners understand the habits and tendencies of coyotes as their peak breeding season approaches, typically late January to mid-March.
Coyotes are a year-round concern, as they wander looking for sources; however, the breeding season for coyotes is a dog owner’s highest concern. Male coyotes are more relentlessly ‘driven’ and can be aggressive during this time as they take on new patterns of movement, looking first for mates and second for food. They are well known to get quite creative in their hunt by playing and luring unsuspecting dogs into the brush, away from a dog’s ‘safe’ surroundings.
While they tend to stick to green spaces, coyotes are territorial and keen opportunists. They will study movement patterns as well as venture close to towns and people for easy food, given the right circumstances. Even though coyotes are omnivorous, 90% of their preferred diet is meat, primarily hunting wild prey like rabbits, squirrels, gophers, and rodents; easily targeted small livestock like chickens, lambs, and kids; or, dread the thought… your cherished domestic cats and small- to medium-sized dogs.
Coyotes are not strictly nocturnal. They may be observed during the day, but are generally more active after sunset and at night. You may see and hear coyotes more during mating season. Dogs who spend most of their time outside unsupervised are most vulnerable. Bringing your dog indoors at dusk will drastically reduce the chances of a coyote attack. While maintaining your regular walking habits during peak coyote mating season, you may want to choose more populated areas to exercise.
Some dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than others; however, there are numerous signs that your dog will display when acutely aware of a coyote in the area, including staring, howling, whimpering, sniffing high in the air with unusually intense focus, pacing a small area, or being extra scent-obsessed, nosing, pawing, and digging the dirt. While out walking or hiking, keep your dog closer to you than usual during coyote mating season. Stay alert and keep your dog under full control at all times. If you have the unfortunate situation where you come into uncomfortably close contact with a coyote, remember it is after your dog, not you, so… stand your ground! Stand tall and maintain bold eye contact (disliked by any predator). Make lots of noise, do not turn your back on the coyote, and do not ever run! Running away can trigger a coyote's prey drive, causing him or her to chase and remember… they will outrun you and probably your dog too!
How can you protect your yard location against unwelcome coyotes?
Have screen or stock fences, placed at ground level
Keep chickens and small livestock in fenced areas and bring them in at night
Store garbage in places coyotes cannot access
Install motion light detectors
Keep the radio on during the night in the barn
Clean up after house pets
Remove den sources, keeping the yard free of piles of anything
'Protection’ that you may choose to carry on yourself to ward off any approach from an extra bold (and hungry) coyote might include a whistle, air horn, spray bottle with vinegar and citronella, or bear (pepper) spray. Coyotes are often seen in pairs and don't normally run in ‘packs’; however, especially in breeding season, they are more likely to run solo, and yes, they are absolutely a threat to small domestic house pets for more than a food source! While rare, coyotes and domestic dogs are, in fact, capable of interbreeding! If your dog is in heat, keep her inside or well-supervised outside, away from marking areas where she may attract unwanted mates (of any species!). Typically, coyotes make hunting and breeding ‘dens’ by taking advantage of existing features in their surroundings such as yard waste, abandoned vehicles, culvert pipes, farm equipment, piles of garbage, leaves, rocks, slash wood piles, soft dirt dugouts, etc.
For your pet needs contact:
EVERYTHING PETS (Princeton BC) 250-295-7381
Quality Foods & Supplies for all your Pets! See us on FB
HARMONY FARM KENNEL AND LAMB.com, Monte Lake, BC, 250-375-2528. “Cutsom Care” boarding welcomes ALL dogs!
Bottom line... IF your dog becomes a victim of a coyote attack, for any reason, it can be very serious, and it is suggested to get your dog to your vet ASAP. Aggressive (not playful) wounds to the neck, jugular, and hind legs (Achilles tendon) are typical ‘death zones,’ but be forewarned! Coyotes are known to carry several transmissible diseases, including distemper, hepatitis (liver inflammation), parvovirus, rabies, leptospirosis, and others… Short version: Be coyote smart, stay safe, and save you and your beloved pets any undue coyotecreated distress!
Article by Patricia Skinner-Porter, Patricia is the owner and operator of Harmony Farm Kennel & Lamb at Monte Lake BC. Offering custom care boarding (non-dog park style). Patricia provides personal care, attention and daily exercise for ALL dog types, breeds, and doganalities! She also offers one-on-one dog owner training, helping individuals to create healthy happy relationships with their dogs. Monthly she shares her vast array of experience with beneficial tips for you and your pooch to enjoy!
IHoof Beats
BEING THE Sole Provider FOR YOUR HORSE
n this issue we will look at what the purpose of the sole is, how it grows, functions, and what it is required to keep them thick and healthy. When horses show up as tender footed, it is not uncommon for horses to be diagnosed with “Thin Soles.” It should be noted that tenderness often comes long before thin soles. Soles just do not get “thin"—they are created with the help from man, which is usually in the form of a lifestyle problem, poor diet/ nutrition, improper hoof care, poor confirmation, compensation from injury. Thin soles can occur when the hoof is out of balance or when the wall is overloaded and uneven pressure is applied to one section of the sole, causing lack of circulation. This, over time diminishes blood supply to that specific area of the sole. As a result, the soft tissue (sole corium) under the coffin bone and cartilage that grows the sole becomes compromised. In our previous article we discussed the White Line and how it is the structure that connects the sole to the wall. Science and logic prove that carrying the weight of the entire horse cannot possibly be expected to be done just by the white line alone. The sole relies on the terrain on which the horse moves (ground) for help in carrying the weight of its body. The sole and coffin bone has a very heavy load to carry indeed, anywhere between 600 to 2000 pounds. The sole needs to be thick, healthy, and have a strong white line connected tightly to the hoof wall in order for the two to work together to support the horse with every step.
Image #1 The sole is outlined in black
The arrows run forward towards the toe from the back near the bar region. This is how the sole grows, from back to front; it continues to do this throughout the lifetime of the horse and is always moving forward like a conveyor belt. Hoof care providers should be aware of how the sole grows and be very mindful when trimming the hoof. Any amount of sole that is removed in the frontal toe region will thin the sole below the coffin bone. It takes about a year for the sole to grow from the back to the front, carrying new thick sole horn forward.
Image #2 The concavity of the sole mirrors the concavity of the coffin bone Coffin Bones are shaped like saucers and should remain that way through the entire lifetime of the horse. Thick Healthy soles can help prevent injury to the coffin bones.
Image #3 & 4 The sole lies beneath the coffin bone and cartilage
In healthy feet there should be a minimum of 1 inch of thick sole below the bone. The sole in the front of the hoof should be very strong and hard, which protects the bone from injury. The sole in the back of the hoof is a bit softer, enabling it to flex independently with each footfall, allowing the hydrodynamic shock absorption of the Digital Cushion and Collateral Cartilages to function in the caudal (back) hoop. Things to Support Healthy Sole Growth
- Hoof protection that is conformable!!(used when needed, turnout or riding)
- Adequate movement on various terrain (creating circulation and sole rejuvenation)
- Ensuring your hoof care provider honours the sole
- Give the sole every opportunity to continue to grow forward, thick and healthy
- Observe your horse’s environment
- Read your horse's body structure and movement and how it is affecting hoof loading Strong walls, tight white lines, a healthy diet, and ample movement = healthy soles
Every structure in the horse’s foot relies on the concept of pressure and release, the simple act of walking in order to circulate the blood within the hoof, that is full of nutrients, in order to stay healthy, and the sole, especially, requires this on-again, off-again pressure. Constant pressure applied to the foot by standing for long periods of time basically causes a crushing affect to the soles. In many of today’s domestic horses, their soles are literally having the life choked out of them due to lack of movement. The best remedy for improving the health of your horse's feet is movement! Soles are the foundation on which your horse has to stand for the rest of their lives. Be a good sole provider—ensure you are always looking at how you can improve your horse’s lifestyle and a lifetime of soundness.
Christine & Francine @ Hoof Geeks hoofgeeks.ca
here is something about the start of a new year that makes one reflect on what’s happened the year before and try to do things differently. For equestrians of all shapes and sizes, whether recreational or competitive, the new year is the perfect time to reset and create a fresh start—for both the horse and rider!
Revisiting foundational skills, responsiveness, balance, and manners lays the groundwork for trust, respect, and performance. These foundational skills are the bedrock for success in any discipline, whether it’s cutting, polo, or sleigh work; however, even the best training plans can falter if your horse isn’t feeling good physically.
Combining training with bodywork addresses both the “what” and “how” of your horse’s ability, which helps assess where you and your horse are: Are transitions smooth? Is movement even or stiff? Taking stock of these details can guide your 2025 training and bodywork priorities, ensuring better alignment for a stronger, healthier partnership.
Why go back to basics?
By mastering and reworking the foundational movements with your horse, you are creating not only more effective communication but also helping to provide the building blocks for more advanced maneuvers. The best analogy that I can use to explain the importance of mastering the basics to get to elevated horsemanship and performances from your equine companion is this: how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Many advanced maneuvers seem daunting to attempt, but they all start from a solid base of communication and groundwork and are rooted in an understanding of the “easy” cues. When you are able to break it down into the smaller steps, those advanced maneuvers become easier to conceptualize and perform.
However, on the flip side, without a solid foundation, it’s easy for the horse and rider to struggle with miscommunications and frustration, impeding progress and resulting in gaps that limit performance as well as safety. By focusing on transitions, rhythm, and balance, you set the stage for future success. A return to basics is not a step back but a step forward, ensuring both you and your horse are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Reset and Refresh
Starting the Year off
By Britain Mills-Dawes
Key Areas to Refresh
Building a strong foundation with your horse starts with mastering three key basics: responsiveness to cues, manners, and body control.
Responsiveness ensures clear communication, as your horse should react as lightly to signals as possible. �xercises like backing up, yielding hindquarters, and side�passing teach your horse to understand pressure and release, strengthening your communication.
Manners create a cooperative relationship by teaching your horse to respect you and your space. �ractice stop�and�go exercises, making sure they don’t crowd or pull on you. Body control improves your horse’s balance and prepares them for advanced training. �ielding the forequarters or working over ground poles can enhance coordination, while simple stretches, like neck and leg stretches, keep muscles loose and prevent stiffness.
These basics aren’t �ust about skill; they create mutual trust, respect, and understanding between you and your horse. Whether your goal is advanced competition or getting a green horse started, focusing on these fundamentals sets the stage for a successful, long�lasting partnership.
�ow �odywor� �nhances �rogress
�odywor� plays a crucial role in enhancing a horse�s training progress �y impro�ing muscle engagement. �his in turn allows for minimi�ed pain and in�ury pre�alence while strengthening healthy communication.
Injury prevention by promoting flexibility and relieving tension, it can address weaknesses before they become in�uries that cost an owner time, money, and heartache. Regular stretches and massage help loosen stiff muscles, allowing for greater range of motion and ease in executing different maneuvers.
Address discomfort there have been times when I have been called out by trainers to look at a horse that has come to them for behaviour issues; however, upon closer inspection, we have found that the undesired behaviour was �ust a way to express discomfort doing a certain movement or maneuver. Once that area was worked on, they would often become more willing to perform the asked movement again. By addressing physical discomfort, bodywork can also help prevent compensatory movements that can hinder progress or lead to imbalances.
Foster communication incorporating bodywork into your routine strengthens the horse’s physical foundation, which in turn helps create a more balanced and willing partner to tackle new challenges with con�dence.
�oo�ing to start ���� o� right with e�uine �odywor�� �ow accepting new �l�erta clients. �onnect with me �ia my we�site� �nstagram� �ace�oo�� or email���d lo�e to help your horse thri�e�
Rider Reset
�t�s easy to focus on �ust your horse�s needs� �ut as riders and handlers� we play a crucial role in setting them up for success. Reassessing our own �asics is �ust as important�
Equitation & Communication �osture, hand position, and leg stability are crucial for clear, concise communication when riding, and each horse you work with will need slight ad�ustments for effective communication. �ideo recording and reviewing your riding or taking lessons can help identify areas for improvement. The same goes for working on the ground; providing concise movements and body position will help to avoid confusing your horse about the ask.
Strength & Balance A strong core is such an important part of riding, and it can sometimes be more di�cult to achieve if you are only riding. �ross�training activities like yoga can help improve your core strength and balance, helping you to become a more effective rider� �ust as bodywork bene�ts your horse, regular stretching and recovery routines such as massage and physio can keep you comfortable and avoid compensatory patterns that may confuse your horse.
Mind-Body Connection Working with horses is �ust as much of a mental challenge �I would even argue more� as it is a physical one. By staying present and aware of your own body and thought process, you can create better, more direct communication with your horse. The ability to be mindful of your physical cues not only allows for greater success with your horse but also enhances your overall horsemanship skills.
Progression Tips �erfection is an illusion that we all strive for, but progress isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about showing up consistently �for yourself �ust as much as your horse� and striving for improvement. Focus on small, achievable goals and celebrate victories no matter how small you perceive them to be.
Stay Open to Learning �very horse and rider combination is utterly unique, and it’s important to remember that so you can avoid comparing partnerships in a negative light. Always stay curious and open to trying new approaches to learning. �earning is a lifelong �ourney, and each step forward brings you closer to your goals.
Work with Professionals �se professionals such as supportive coaches, trainers, body workers, etc., who prioritize you and your horse�s well�being. A collaborative approach ensures that your goals and abilities complement each other, leading to better and more realistic results.
Consistency Over Perfection As the new year begins, remember that the path to success looks different for everyone. By refreshing and resetting expectations, you�re giving not only your horse but yourself tools to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. This isn’t �ust about improving performance; it’s about continuing to foster a partnership built on trust, understanding, and care. �very small step forward is a step toward something greater.
Article by Britain Mills-Dawes, the owner of Stable Instincts, an equine business dedicated to equine wellness. Specializing in soft tissue manipulation, Britain brings a meticulous and professional approach to her work, ensuring the highest standards of care and business. In addition to her practice, Britain is a well-versed public speaker, sharing her insights and knowledge through digestible clinics, demos, and presentations. Britain has been a speaker and demoist at some of the largest equine events in western Canada, including the Horse Expo and the Calgary Stampede. To work with Britain, contact her at stableinstincts@gmail.com or visit her website at stableinstincts.ca
Groomed for Excellence Jenni r C rc sne
By Amber Zierath
From poll to dock, equine athletes competing in show jumping are scrupulously tended to. Horses entering an arena for advanced calibre show jumping have a team of dedicated humans preparing them for competitive eventing. Not only do these horses display precision in their stride and a fit physique, but they’re aesthetically polished and poised, too. Bathed and conditioned for a shiny coat, meticulously brushed for a silky mane and tail, horses are professionally groomed to present their resplendence beyond their athleticism. In addition to competitions, countless hours and days are spent in between events where horses are cared for by a professional groom. One Canadian woman has devoted many years to this role and was recently honoured for her dedication to the industry.
Jennifer Courchesne was inducted into the Jump Canada Hall of Fame for 2024 and recognized by her industry peers for her exemplary work with horses in the role of professional groom. Jennifer is the second groom in Canada to ever be esteemed with this award. Jennifer’s love for horses began at age nine. Her childhood friend had horses and a barn, and Jennifer spent weekends helping with chores and riding the horses. She next took lessons at Les Ecuries de la Chaudiere in Breakeville, Quebec, and competed in shows. As Jennifer’s life progressed, she hadn’t anticipated a career with horses. She completed post-secondary education within hotel management and intended to pursue that industry further. However, Jennifer was encouraged, prior to gaining employment within hotel management, to first improve her English as it was her second language. As she worked on her dialect, she joined a friend who was moving to Ontario to work with horses and gained employment there, too. This decision proved to be fruitful for Jennifer, as she never went back to hotel management and has been working with horses since.
Jennifer loves working with horses. She places emphasis on gaining a horse’s trust, being attuned to how they’re feeling each day, and understanding their personality and temperament. Jennifer establishes a tailored connection with the horses and recognizes that they need a lot of love and can feel what humans are feeling. Learning hands-on by watching other grooms and asking questions was how Jennifer learned the skills of her trade. “It’s a job where you learn something new each day,” says Jennifer. Her daily duties as a professional groom include feeding and watering horses, cleaning their stalls, and organizing their schedule for each day. On show days, each horse has its own distinctive preparation. In addition to ensuring they’re aesthetically ready for a show, typically a groom will hand-walk them and exercise them with lunging and flat work. When the horses are done showing, the groom will bathe them, ice and wrap their legs, and feed and water them again.
Ainsley Vince and Jenny Courchesne
Photo by Michelle C. Dunn MCD
JThe professional groom can have a rigorous schedule. Jennifer is rarely home during show season. She has travelled by plane and trailer with the horses through the �nited States, �urope, and Canada. When travelling abroad for shows, the groom is responsible for organizing all equipment and feed requirements for the horses. Jennifer has lived in Wellington, Florida, for each winter season for as long as she can remember. By taking the horses south during Canada’s colder months, it extends their showing season, which is beneficial for the horses and humans.
Jennifer has worked for �ric �amaze of Torrey �ines Stables, �insley �ince of �inden �idge, and �exi �ay of �olce �cres. She has travelled extensively around the world and has had the opportunity to meet many incredible people and visit remarkable places. Jennifer indicates that meeting the people has been one of her favourite aspects of the job. However, for Jennifer, the best part of being a professional groom is the special bond she has with the horses. �ltimately, Jennifer Courchesne does what she does because of her love for all things equine.
Article by Amber Zierath, a Calgary-based, equine-focused writer and the author of the best-selling fiction novel Horse Karma. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find her with the horses; riding bareback in the mountains or spending time with the 60 geldings that inspire her. Learn more at: amberzierath.com
THANK YOU!
From the Horsey Ladies 2024
By Nancy Roman
The 27th annual Horsey Ladies Charity Auction took place Saturday November 16, 2024 at the Prestige Hotel in Vernon BC. A total of 152 tickets were sold, but the weather wreaked havoc with the (snowy) road conditions so our group was a modest 126. But that did not deter the horsey gals to bid on silent auction items or enter their tickets in the toonie auction. We commend the staff at the Prestige… Jami Mitchell and her catering crew did an amazing job for us!
Our group raised just over $13,000 that night and it was decided to share that amount with the top four vote-getters voted on by each woman in attendance. The gals were welcome to get up and pitch for their favourite charity over dinner during ‘open mic.’ To date the Horsey Ladies Okanagan have raised over $153,000 and giving it all back to charity.
“We want to give out a HUGE THANKS to all those who donated to our evening – we are so appreciative of your support and generosity.” – from the 2024 committee… Donna McNab, Kathy Mydske, Lisa Warren, Lauri Meyers, Michelle Vaugeois, Joey Tompkins, Anne Fraser, Nancy Roman.
SPONSORS
AJ's Pets
Armstrong Co-op
Armstrong Veterinary
Askew's Foods & Bakery
Baccata Ridge Winery
Baird Bros. Ltd
Barkerville Historic Town
Beaver Lake Resort
Blue Dog Forge
Bosley's Armstrong
Briteland
Buckerfield's Salmon Arm
Butcher Boys
Canadian Tire Vernon
Canoa Farms
Caravan Farm Theatre
Cavallo Horse & Rider
Champion Horse Blankets
Chatter's Hair & Body
Chilcotin Holidays
Connect Vet Services
Country Manor
Country West Supply
Cowboy's Choice
Creekside Animal Clinic
Crystal Springs Resort
Diamond H Tack
Double Diamond Equine
Drifting Designs by Mike Heater
Eagle Rock Plumbing & Heating
Enderby Jewellers
Equimage Decals
Equines & Wine Tour
Our 2024 recipients
From left to right
Linda on behalf of the Armstrong/Spallumcheen Trails Society ($1000)
Ally Macdonald on behalf of Olds Friends Canada Society ($1000)
Karen Tanchak and Miranda Williams on behalf of Equisdom Therapeutic Horsemanship Association ($4500)
Single photo, Carly Marchand of Freedom's Gate Equine Rescue Society ($6500)
…and to the many items our committee members brought in and/or donated themselves… THANK YOU!
Our Horsey Ladies cake was donated by Askew’s Foods of Armstrong, from their The Wine & Chocolate Crate is an annual favourite on the auction block.
IT'S RENEWAL SEASON
2025 is here! If you've already renewed, thank you for your continued support—we’re excited for a fantastic year ahead! If you haven’t renewed yet, you can easily do so online, by phone, or through the mail. If you won’t be rejoining as a member in 2025, this will be the final newsletter we send you. However, if you’d like to continue receiving our updates, simply reply to this email and let us know.
2025 Membership Rates
• 2025 Adult Membership $69.00 + tax
• 2025 Youth Associate $49.00 + tax
• 2025 Family Enrolment $159.00 + tax
• Additional Family Youth $18.09 + tax
Notice Regarding Changes to Family Membership Policy
Due to updates in Acera’s membership policy, effective immediately, family memberships will now be structured as follows:
OPTION 1: One (1) Adult and Two (2) Youth
OPTION 2: TWO (2) ADULTS AND ONE (1) YOUTH
Any additional youth members beyond the designated limit will incur a fee of $19.00 each. Please note that a maximum of two adults is permitted per family membership. Each member will receive their own unique membership number.
Thank you for your understanding and support!
HCBC is going green! All HCBC Membership Cards will be sent digitally. If you would like a printed card still, they will be available for purchase for $5.60, just check the box that you would like to receive the printed version.
JOIN HCBC AFFILIATES WITH YOUR HORSE COUNCIL BC MEMBERSHIP!
When individuals join Horse Council BC online, you can also join:
• Equestrian Vaulting Association BC (EVABC)
• Dressage BC
BC 55+ GAMES 2025
Save the Date! The BC 55+ Games are heading to Nanaimo September 9-13. Details and disciplines coming soon.
MARCH MADNESS WEBINAR SERIES!
There are 5 Mondays this March, which sounds like a bummer but that means we have FIVE great webinars coming your way this March. Join us at 7pm PST each Monday in March. Registration is now open!
Register once for all 5 webinars, need to miss a week, or only interested in a few? No problem! (but we will still email you the link). These sessions are only available live at this time, so mark your calendars! This event is free for HCBC members but pre-registration is required, nonmembers can register for $100+tax.
• March 3rd - TB A
• March 10th - Dr. Steve Chiasson: Acupuncture Treatment for Horses
• March 17th - Dr. Michelle Husulak: Equine Parasites: Best Practices for Treatment and Prevention
• March 24th - Dr. Erin Pinnell: Thermoregulation in Horses: Blanketing and Clipping in Context to your Environment
• March 31st - Laura Qusen: Helmets & Safety Vests: An Overview of Innovation and Industry Standards
View the speaker bios (more to come!) and registration information here: https:// hcbc.ca/news-events/ webinars/
News provided by our media partner Horse Council British Columbia, Top Photo Credit Saddle Up Magazine
YOUNG RIDERS YOUNG RIDERS YOUNG RIDERS YOUNG RIDERS
Hello,myname isAthena,andthis is my pony, Braveheart. I enjoy lessons with my coach, and I just tried barrel racing in hand this year! I am hoping to start trail rides with my mom in the spring.
Canadian Cowboy Challenge
ANew Year welcomes you to another Canadian Cowboy Challenge season. Alana made the comment regarding the 2024 Challenge season that we saw so many horse and rider teams strive to be better with each challenge. Some of our members started taking lessons and competing in other disciplines to up their Canadian Cowboy Challenge game. We enjoyed the friendly competition, and the social times around the campfire in the evenings. Potluck suppers were back, and what a joy it was to see people once again sitting down to break bread together after a long day of competition”.
It seems like the CCC just held the 2024 Finals on September 21, and here we are starting another Challenge Season in 2025. I hope that everyone had a great holiday season and brought in the New Year with enthusiasm for another season with their equine partner. Late Winter is a great time to condition the team in preparation for the CCC Challenge season. The first order of business in 2025 for the CCC was the AGM held via Zoom on January 25. Results of the election were not available at the time of this writing, so results will be reported in the next issue. Early Challenge dates should be posted on the CCC website with each Challenge being posted as they are confirmed.
At this time I would like to address a few questions that may arise from our existing or new members.The first place to look for information on what to expect when competing is the CCC rules that are available on the CCC website. As examples, section 6 explains “tack and attire.” with “rider divisions” listed starting with section 8 through 15 and how each “division is judged and points attained” in section 16. Referring to these rules should give everyone a good start at what they can expect while being a competitor at a CCC event. There is a list of obstacles used in course design to help competitors prepare for a CCC Challenge.
The rules are the foundation on which to build upon when manoeuvring an obstacle course at a CCC event. Rules are basic, but they can be added to and/or refined to suit the horse/rider team.
The focus on completing a course is to remember that each obstacle is judged on the 3E’s: Entrance, Execution, and Exit. The judge evaluates using all three criteria to give a score between .25 and 10 for each obstacle, which are added up with a horsemanship score to give the team an overall course score.
Have fun and enjoy your riding. Here are a few pictures of last year’s spring and summer. Challenges as an example of what to look forward to this season.
By Hans Kollewyn
Alberta Donkey & Mule Club
The Alberta Donkey and Mule Club hosted a green-pony driving clinic with Jed Howlett at Parkland Equestrian (west of Edmonton) in September. It was very well attended by longeared enthusiasts and new driving partners. Jed worked with the group on preparing ponies (and donkeys) for hitching and how to achieve body control. A few schooled driving animals were also on hand to give the students a great feel for things to come. Thanks to JH Equine Virtual Carriage Driving Coaching for joining us, and congratulations to everyone on their own success!
Eric and Archie
Adiran riding Jazzy
Janet and Mr. Red Pine
Vintage Riders Equestrian Club
GENTLE INTO THE NEW YEAR
We have just come through the season of Wow, Fun, and Scrumptious. So, February, what have you got to offer us? Not a great deal, as far as I am concerned. Not a redeeming characteristic to be seen. Cold, wet, windy, and raining. Before we go forward, let’s see where we have been.
Here is a review of the Vintage Riders bonding experiences of the past weeks. Our Christmas party was a jolly success. One of the newer members commented, ‘That was an event!’ Which sums it up quite nicely. Heartwarming to spend time with old friends and have time to begin to establish new friends. We all have something to offer. The gala committee, chucked together pretty quickly, rose to their strengths and maturity and performed every task thrown their way with calm precision. Just like they were a practiced team.
Nice work, people. Our annual general meeting occurred. Along with elections, the Person of the Year award was presented to Reta E. Congratulations, my friend. You make me proud as you quietly go about the selfless business of bringing joy, companionship, and support to Lilian, one of our members of an age that disallows her participation in club activities. Having expressed my distaste for February, I processed my thoughts.
By Kendra Kowalski
Adventures with Phillippé
November and December were a much slower pace at home for Phillippé. A much-deserved rest after a very busy summer and fall! We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season full of time with family and friends, and our best wishes for a successful and fun-filled 2025 year!
All our best, Phillippé and Amanda
The Backcountry Horsemen of BC
Every year, somewhere in BC, trail riding enthusiasts from all over the province (and beyond) gather to see old friends, meet new ones, learn a little, and laugh a lot. Tales and information are shared about past rides, and plans are made for future ones. We call it Rendezvous (or RV for short). This year we are meeting at the Princeton Fairgrounds M17-19th,-19th and the RV committee is already at work putting it together!
RV ‘25 is being spearheaded by the founder of BCHBC, Jim McCrae. At his behest, it is being held a week earlier than usual, on the long weekend, so “we have one more day to party!”
The theme this year is ‘History and Horses,’ and Princeton is a very appropriate location. Back in 1846, A.C. Andersen was working for the Hudson’s Bay Company, looking for a new route for the fur brigade pack animals through the Cascades. The US border had just been established at the 49th parallel, and the British had lost access to the Columbia River. While scouting in Tulameen, northwest of Princeton, Anderson met the Similkameen chief, Blackeye, out on horseback, and was shown a route that would become the historic HBC Brigade Trail. And that changed the history of BC and eventually Canada!
Some of the possible events in the works are:
Wagon rides around camp and to a historic location
Guided rides (have your own horse) to historical locations
Mapped trails to go out on your own
11th annual Ernie Buckle Cowboy Poetry contest
Presentations and quizzes on historical events that included horses/mules
Potluck dinner, catered dinner, and pancake breakfast
Chapter Encampment Challenge
Search and Rescue education
Vendors Alley
Three-Day Pack Trip from Tulameen to Princeton Cowboy Challenge
Presentation on an Epic Ride in Mongolia
Cowboy Church
The One Minute Club
Scavenger Hunt
Horses optional; there will be plenty to do!!
As always at RV, for the price of admission, you get a lot of bang for your buck: three days of camping, a catered dinner, lots of entertainment, a pancake breakfast, and the best meet-and-greet opportunity imaginable.
Early Bird Member-only ticket sales start February 15, 2025
Regular Ticket Sales after March 15, 2025
There will be day passes available, but they do not include camping or meals. If you can’t stay the weekend, pop in for the day!! You can bring your equine and rent stalls or pens, or bring your own panels. High-lining will also be an option in the grassy, treed ‘hollow’ next to the grounds. Not everyone brings an equine because there’s just SO MUCH to take in.
For current information, please check our website, bchorsemen.org, and click on the Rendezvous 2025 tab, or check us out on Facebook: Back Country Horsemen of BC- Provincial. Last year's RV sold out in record time, so if you are thinking of attending (and you should!!), book early! Hope to see you there!
Article by Sheila Sowerby and the RV Committee
clubs & associations
Promoting equine activities and knowledge in the south Cariboo with Shows, Clinics, Gymkhanas and more. President: Danita McLaren
Alberta Donkey and Mule Club
ARMSTRONG ENDERBY RIDING CLUB
Schooling Shows (Eng/West/Games), Amstrong Fairgrounds, April to Sept. www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca 325
BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETY
Pleasure, Combined, Recreation from Minis to Drafts, www.bccarriagedriving.com 824
Play Days • Clinics • Shows • Trail Rides • Community Events • Knowledge Sharing High Point in Competitive and Recreational Categories albertadonkeyandmule.ca 325 625
bctherapeuticriding.com
therapeutic riding, equine-based therapeutic services, and para-equestrian activities throughout BC through networking, educational programming, and outreach activities.
Canadian Cowboy Challenge A SPORT for the whole Family!
Seven Divisions to accommodate all! For more info please call 403-828-2044 or visit www.canadiancowboychallenge.com 325
Visit us online: cantra.ca
Email: ctra@golden.net
Phone: (519) 767-0700 Since 1980, Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association has been the leader in Canada for therapeutic riding and is recognized as such by HETI (Horses in Education & Therapy International).
• Certification of therapeutic riding instructors - basic to senior level
• Prerequisites through Equestrian Canada
• Equine assisted wellness, learning, team building & personal development
• National accreditation of therapeutic riding programs
• Partner with Equine Guelph
Welcoming a diverse equestrian community by fostering an environment of enjoyment, development, and competition.
Introducing the 2023 Interior Desert Hunter/Jumper Circuit Show Series More details and dates available at kelownaridingclub.ca 3745 Gordon Drive, Kelowna BC
BC PAINT HORSE CLUB
www.bcphc.com, Open Show & Competition Program, award sponsorships for local clubs, youth scholarship. cathyglover@telus.net 425
SERVICES (Okanagan) 250212-3513 Mobile Equine, Dr. Savannah Beavers, connectvetservices.com 325
INTERIOR VETERINARY
HEALTH SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-769-4217, Mobile Equine, Brytann Youngberg DVM, VSMT, College of Animal Chiropractors 325
Black Creek Ranch
Horsefly, BC
BUILDING LEGACY IN BC
For half a century, Kubota has been at the heart of Canadian communities, helping dreamers turn their plans into reality. From your first project to building a legacy, our tough, versatile equipment has been built for you. Join us as we celebrate 50 years of engineering excellence and dedication to the people who make Canada thrive.
