Saddle Up April 2022

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

FREE

G e t YOUR HEART Racing Publications Mail Reg. No. 40045521 Printed in Canada

WITH THE OLDS COLLEGE RACETRACK PROGRAMS

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 1

2 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 3

From the Editor…

ALSO AVAILABLE DIGITALLY

HCBC 2010 Business of The Year 2014 A/S Chamber President’s Choice Award Publisher/Editor Nancy Roman MAIN OFFICE TOLL FREE 1-866-546-9922 250-546-9922 nancyroman@saddleup.ca www.saddleup.ca MAILING ADDRESS Saddle Up magazine PO Box 371 Armstrong, BC, Canada V0E 1B0

I

t’s April! YAY! Events are starting! YAY!! Horse Expo is around the corner! YAY!!! Our first trade show in three years… back in Red Deer, Chinese buffet here I come. I hope Highway 1 is clear of potholes and the road construction (waiting) is minimal.

It has taken some time, but we have revamped our web site slightly. Tried not to make it too busy, offer too many tabs, and change things too much – take a look see. We are going to have a monthly POLL just to get some reader feedback – and a few more new things. Thank you to Denise at Prima Design for your patience and input and creativity too!

We’ve got a lot of good reading in this issue, so take your time, sit back and have a readthrough.

Very sad to hear of Larry Stewart’s passing in February. He and his wife, Leslie, brought Parelli Natural Horsemanship to British Columbia in the mid-1990s. Greg and I participated in the Stewart’s program in Armstrong when it started. Our sincere condolences to the family.

(Note: For those that may not know, Glenn Stewart is Larry’s nephew).

Take care everyone.

Happy Easter!

Printed In Canada produced by OKANAGAN PRINTING a division of

EPublishing in Armstrong, BC 250-546-6477

Publications Mail Reg. No. 40045521 GST Reg. No. 865839567 ISSN No. 1701-6002 © All Rights Reserved

ON THE COVER: Racetrack Programs at Olds College, oldscollege.ca CONTRIBUTORS: Lindsay Ward, Brigitte MacKenzie, Sandy Lang, Captain Ali Mansour,

Patricia E. Skinner, Elisha Bradburn, Glenn Stewart, John Chapman, Birgit Stutz, Lisa Wieben, Barry Campbell, Russ Shandro

OFFICIAL VOICE FOR: The Back Country Horsemen of BC MEDIA PARTNER WITH HORSE COUNCIL BC

FEATURES DEADLINE 5TH OF EVERY MONTH SUBSCRIPTIONS $24.00 CDN plus tax per year or $42 US per year.

(11 issues) Reproduction of any materials without written permission from the editor is prohibited. Opinions and statements expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor.

4 • APRIL 2022 2022

SADDLEUP.CA SADDLEUP.CA

OUR REGULARS

Racing with Olds College

5

Gentleness

6

Horse Expo in Red Deer

8

Take Pride in your Work

10

Strathcona Mounted Troop

12

Alberta Thoroughbred Program

14

Fashions for Kids

15

Sweet Spots

16

Pain Management

19

Proper Lunging – Part 2 The Limey Cowboy

Top Dog!

32

KIDS

34

Horse Council BC

35

What’s This?

37

Back Country Horsemen of BC 40 Clubs/Associations

41

What’s Happening? Let’s Go!

42

Rural Roots (Real Estate)

43

Business Services

44

On the Market (photo ads)

46

26

Stallions/Breeders

46

28

Shop & Swap

47

Experience the THRILL of RACING from behind the scenes Fun, intensive hands-on experience, and Employment is guaranteed!

Join us for a Day at the Races for a unique and exhilarating experience and learn about the Olds College Racetrack Programs.

T

he Professional Racetrack Exercise Rider Program and the Groom Course are each a “Learn and Earn” concept program that will give you the confidence and skill to become a professional licensed Exercise Rider or Groom at Alberta Horse Racing Tracks! Each unique program has a blended approach that will allow you to study online, learn from and practice your skill with industry professional instructors, all while allowing you to earn a wage working in the industry! You will acquire the skills you need to exercise race horses on a track, or provide intensive professional care to elite race horses.

What will you learn?

With support from Horse Racing Alberta and industry professionals you will receive your hands-on training at the Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku Alberta.

Upon successful completion of either program you will be able to understand horse behaviours, explain the workings of the horse racing industry, develop personal career skills, demonstrate practices for barn safety and cleanliness, and demonstrate horse handling techniques for high powered horses.

For ‘riders’ you will be trained to exercise race horses around a track to condition them and get them in shape for racing. For ‘grooms,’ you will be able to identify and apply horse racing tack, identify equine anatomy and related lameness, apply stable and exercise bandages, perform race day procedures, execute regular health checks on horses, follow protocols for equine medical emergencies, and explain Equine Nutrition!

Catch our Graduates in Action at Century Mile!

Opening day April 30, 2022

PROFESSIONAL RACETRACK Exercise Rider Program Groom Program (Both programs start January 2023, apply now to avoid disappointment)

These programs give you the skills to WORK ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD!

Do what you Love…

Love what you do.

Each program is subsidized by Horse Racing Alberta to provide professionally trained people in the industry.

15 week interactive programs with paid practicums. Accomplished Alumni having earned several national and international awards; industry-loaned race horses are your 4-legged instructors.

Subsidized Tuition 100% Employment Numerous career opportunities

oldscollege.ca ~ Toll free 1-800-661-6537 / 1-403-556-4740 APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 5

Gentleness

You have probably all heard about the idea that if a horse can feel an itty bitty fly land on him, then you certainly shouldn’t need to do much to communicate something to him. It is definitely an idea worth thinking about and evaluating if we are being too “loud” with our communications.

A

re we sending a signal or creating a commotion? Sometimes we are inadvertently desensitizing our horse to our signals with inaccurate feel and timing, when what we desire is a sensitive, responsive partner. We really need to ensure the paradigm fixed in our head is Tom Dorrance’s idea of seeing how little it takes. Do as much as it takes, *but as little as possible*.

I remember when I started out pursuing horsemanship, I mean really wanting to understand and be understood by a horse, I took to heart the gradual escalation of pressure, or “the doing as much as it takes” part when asking something of my horse. The result was a pressure-based and focused relationship. What this looked like was a sulled up horse just waiting braced for the increasing pressure until it was so much pressure he reluctantly and with tension finally succumbed to my idea. I just couldn’t figure out why a horse would stand around and wait for level 5 pressure, when he knew what I wanted at level 1.

One day I had a paradigm shift. I was visiting with Jonathan Field at one of his ranch camps and I told him about my realization. To which he nodded, and smiled like a good horseman would.

He knew it all along, but he had to let me discover it for myself for me to really get the learning for myself. If the focus was on the application of

By Elisha Bradburn Photos by Kylie Bartel pressure to force my agenda, rather than rewarding even the slightest inclination towards my wish, the relationship would never be mutually rewarding. Martin Black stresses often that “It takes pressure for relief to be effective, and relief for pressure to be effective.” The shift of focus inside me from worrying about escalating pressure to hunting to reward the slightest try from my horse with relief, not only created a much more joyful relationship with my horse, it sped things up! My horse and I started to enjoy the learning process as there were constant opportunities to reward my horse with a gentle rub, some praise and a nice pause for rest. That realization was the beginning of a refining process and a journey for ‘more’.

Some of ‘the more’ for me Just sliding the mecate rein gently came as practical applications of along the horse’s neck is a signal. the idea of gentleness and subtlety

6 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

in horsemanship. One of these applications is ensuring that you are aware of maintaining a neutral balanced seat position when riding so that your horse can feel the difference between you asking nothing, and then when you are issuing a communication. Going back to the idea of a horse being able to feel a tiny fly moving across their hide, we must keep this in mind as we humans weigh a little more than a fly, so you can imagine how well a horse can feel our weight shifting as we sit atop their backs.

A balanced seat position pretty much equally splits weight between our pubic/seat bones (picture rolling your pelvis slightly backward and under you in order to lift yourself up off your back pockets), our thighs and our stirrups. This does not mean any of these areas is tight, clamped, or squeezing the horse. Instead it looks like a balanced, athletic and upright stance. I heard from Grand Prix Dressage rider Crystal Kroetch to visualize if the horse was to be pulled out from underneath you magically, that you would land perfectly on your feet, as you though are standing, just with a bit of bend in your knee if you are in the correct position for subtle communications. From this position we can shift slightly forward, left or right, or slightly back to create a shift in balance that affects our horse’s balance, and encourages him to move in the direction we are indicating with our weight shift.

This level of awareness of our seat position, and how it affects our horses comes from a spirit of gentleness and wanting to be clear and helpful to our horses. Too many times we inadvertently get in the horse’s way with our own weight of the exact maneuver we are asking the horse to do.

Then when the horse does things like popping a shoulder or hindquarter out, or bending their head the opposite direction we want them to in order to try to keep themselves balanced, instead of correcting our own weight position, we pull harder, use more leg, a bigger bit, etc. A spirit of gentleness would assume the best of the horse in this instance, and ask how we could communicate better.

Resistance of any kind is generally a good indicator for us that somehow we are working against the horse, and is a good sign we need to revaluate our communication methods. Get curious in your pursuit of gentleness. Ask yourself some questions. Why isn’t this going how I hoped?

The Signal Balance system of the hackamore and spade bit allow the utmost subtlety in communication. right thing, at the right time, and sometimes just give it some time.

In conclusion, gentleness begins with an attitude of the heart, one that seeks to understand first, and be understood second. One that takes the time it takes, and truly seeks to help the horse learn to seek relief, rather than run from pressure, or worse, lean into it. It starts with our awareness, noticing the little things, like an ear flick, a shift in weight, a lick of the lips, the slightest try, and seeing how little you can do. See how you can let the horse’s acute sensitivity to subtleness work for you. I think you’ll find, like I have, it takes a whole lot of strength to be truly gentle.

Thank you for reading. I pray you find that “more” with horses that “gets” you right in the heart! 

A gentle rub can be a nice reward.

Why is that shoulder popping? Where is my weight, and how is that affecting my horse? Ask ourselves how we could better prepare and position so our horse could do what we want with greater ease and softness. All questions that arise on the road to becoming a horseman.

Hopefully that all gave a good idea of the significance of gentleness in horsemanship. A quality so key, especially when our partners are animals as subtle and sensitive as the horse. An animal that, in the wild, may live or die by picking up subtle changes in their environment. We truly don’t need to do much to get our point across to them. Just the

Elisha Bradburn and her husband, Clay, own Faithful Farm, an equestrian center in the Fraser Valley. Elisha’s passion with horses lies in psychology based horsemanship, with a strong consideration for the horse’s point of view. Elisha is available for clinics and speaking engagements and can be followed on her Legacy Horsemanship pages on Facebook and Instagram or e-mailed at legacyhorsemanship@shaw.ca.

(See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

BCHBC 2022 RENDEZVOUS RAFFLE BC Gaming License #132389

TICKETS - 1 for $50 or 3 for $100 Only 2400 tickets available!

Tickets can be purchased online at, bchorsemen.org or darelle.com DRAW DATE JUNE 25, 2022 AT RENDEZVOUS Do not have to be present to receive prize JOIN US AT RENDEZVOUS at the CN Centre, Prince George BC June 24 – 26, 2022 BCHBC members and non-members are all welcome!

GRAND PRIZE 2022 Maverick 2 Horse Angle Haul $15,275 value (Reimer Ranching sponsor)

2nd Prize Custom Trail Saddle $3,650 value

(Cloete Saddles sponsor)

APRIL 2022

3rd Prize Pack Rigging $1,000 value (Custom PackRigging™ sponsor)

SADDLEUP.CA • 7

By Brigitte MacKenzie, Media Coordinator

orse Expo has twelve world class clinicians, a Trainers Showdown, presenters, exhibitors, and so much more!

Three of the top trainers In North America will compete against each other to earn the status of winning the coveted Showdown Challenge Championship. The three trainers this year are Kade Mills, Jason Irwin, and Trevor Mertes.

Our esteemed judges to find our Trainers Showdown winner are Lorie Duff – (Liberty trainer, www.libertylanefarm.net); Cain Quam (Mounted Shooting); and Marc Garner (Ranch Manager). They have been chosen to help find our Champion at the 2022 Expo.

For everyone who is attending you can observe and experience what it is like to start a green horse from Day 1. You will all have your own ideas about how each horse and trainer are progressing. You can be part of the entire observation progress from the first moment each trainer meets his equine student.

Next stop on our schedule we can learn more of the process in training with elite coaching from Barbra Schulte, Cindy Ishoy and Hugh Graham. All three clinicians will teach the physical and mental preparations which they have done for three decades! It will be interesting to watch how the horses and students progress over the three days.

In discussion with Cindy Ishoy, I inquired if her students required “warm up” time in the arena and she said “no, I want to coach the students in the warmup because it is one of the most critical parts of showing a horse.”

Hugh Graham strictly says “the straight lines are critical for the coaching and understanding this will create power and balance for horse and rider.”

Barbra Schulte believes “it is mindful thinking for the horse and rider to work together.”

Glenn Stewart

Amy Star

8 • APRIL 2022

H

With Covid calming down, and spring on the horizon, annual events are getting going again, and Horse Expo is the top of the conversation.

SADDLEUP.CA

Cain Quam

There will be Mounted Shooting with Cain Quam, Horsemanship & Liberty with Glenn Stewart, Working Equitation with Amy Star, Barrel Racing with Vanessa Salisbury, Reining with Jim Greendyk, Ranch Riding with Sally Saur, and so many more! You will be able to keep yourself busy the entire weekend. Check out our schedule to see how it fits into your event journey at HorseExpo.ca.

Watch, Learn, Shop, and Experience Horse Expo 2022 this Easter weekend at Westerner Park in Red Deer, Alberta. Visit HorseExpo.ca for more information!

Vanessa Salisbury

Jim Greendyk

Sally Saur APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 9

Take Pride in Your Work

By Glenn Stewart

We have all heard the saying, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” I agree and I believe that when it comes to working with the horse, it is even more important. Doing things well is a challenge and is something a person can take great pride in if their horse or horses want to be with them.

W

hen I say that a horse wants to be with them I mean that the horse likes to be with them not because of the food they bring or the brushing or scratching they get. All horses like getting fed oats, crunchies, hay, whatever, or getting brushed and scratched but that doesn’t mean they like us. The real test is can you ask something from your horse and he stills want to be with you without all the goodies. The more a person asks of the horse, the easier it is to see if the horse really likes or wants to be with the handler. For example, if you went to work each day and the boss met you at the door with some snacks followed by a nice massage and said you could leave when you wanted or maybe straighten some papers for an hour or so and text a few people then it would be pretty easy to show up for that job. But if you had a boss that wanted you to work when you’re at work, some days with sweat dripping off your nose if needed, then those are two very different environments.

Dynamint Equine ALL NATURAL SOOTHING LOTION for SORE or STRAINED MUSCLES & JOINTS Available in 1L Spray bottle for easy and quick application to larger areas, or a 500 ml rub bottle.

A soothing combination of natural essential oils in a gentle cream base. specially formulated with natural ingredients to assist in the relief of leg, muscle and joint strain.

Internationally recognized Horse Trainer, Clinician and Rider, as well as founder/ trainer of the world famous Calgary Stampede Drill Team: Jill Barron says: “As a professional horse trainer, Dynamint Equine Leg & Muscle Rub is an important aspect of my program. Dynamint is a natural product that has a cooling effect, it calms tired, sore muscles and rejuvenates horses keeping them feeling their best. I use Dynamint on my horses and myself. The results I have experienced have not been matched by any other product in the market. For long hauls and after hard workouts Dynamint is the only product I use on horse’s legs. If you are looking for a product that is safe on skin and delivers results, trust Dynamint Equine Leg & Muscle Rub. Your horse will thank you!”

National Distributor: Canadian Centurion • 1-800-361-3860 • Local: Janian Imports (604) 462-9238 Manufactured for: Integrated Bio Systems Inc. • Abbotsford, BC • Phone: 1-877-501-5003 E-Mail: intbiosys@shaw.ca • www.integratedbiosys.com

10 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Just because a horse shows up at the gate when we arrive doesn’t mean he likes us or wants to be with us. However, if you spent time with your horse the day before where you really had a productive and, usually, challenging day of learning and he still meets you at the gate then that is one good sign the horse likes you.

There are two things that horses love beyond anything. They trump oats, crunchies or any other horse treat. Those two things are feel and timing. If we read and understand the horse correctly, we can offer the correct feel and timing with practice. Horses feel safe and understood, they understand us and what we want if we can learn the proper feel and timing. Everything becomes clear and comfortable for them. They know what is expected and it feels right.

Some things I look for to know if I’m getting it right and if I can take pride in my work would be if they meet me at the gate or, at least, allow me to walk out in the field with my halter in plain view and let me put it on. Better yet, if I can lead them back by the mane and, even better than that, if I can ask them to come back to the barn without a hand or rope on them. Other signs that I’m on the right track would be when I’m working with a horse and he gets to where he wraps his neck around me in what I call a horse hug. Or, you might be stopped, catching a breather, and the horse softly, respectfully, with its head down, just kind of steps in close and bends his neck around your hip and legs. His eye will be soft. Then, when it’s time to get back to whatever you’re doing, the horse does it with ears forward with an eye that is alert and attentive. The request you ask for is done with a positive “Yes, right away!” response. He should look alive, interested and learning. These responses are things a person could take pride in developing.

The opposite of this would be a horse that is slow and dull to follow a request. Another example would be if you have to hide your halter and bring oats to catch a horse, or if he sees you and heads for the far end of

the pasture, then something is not right. A sign that things need to change is when he pins his ears or flashes his tail around you or when you ask him to do something. Another sign that things need to change is a horse that whinnies while always looking somewhere else. When you are standing there, he looks away from you. If you reach to touch the horse’s head, he moves his head away instead of towards you. If he pushes into you with any part of his body, then these are all things I could not take pride in. If any or all of these things are happening during the time you spend with a horse, or if it gets worse after a session, then it can be changed with understanding the horse and learning to have great feel and timing.

If I can spend time with a horse and know that the horse’s mind was with me and not somewhere else; if the horse learnt something or I did; if the time spent was a step forward that both horse and human got something positive from, then I can sleep easy and look forward to tomorrow and the challenge of doing things well. I can then take pride in my work.

At the end of your day, ask yourself: Did I learn?

Did the horse learn?

Was the session or time productive?

Did the horse enjoy it?

Does the horse have a soft eye and is responsive to requests?

Does the horse have its head down and neck wrapped around you in a horse hug?

Or do you have the opposite: Does he look the other way, head high and neck bent away from you and whinnying?

Does the horse avoid being caught the next day?

Does the horse pin his ears around you, push into you, turn a hip towards you, or flash his tail when you ask him to do something?

Does your horse not like you?

Everybody wants a horse that likes them, is responsive, and is not spooky or dull. Take pride in your work and go to bed feeling good about the time spent.

Glenn Stewart travels extensively conducting clinics, demonstrations, and colt starting sessions, and also offers Camps and a 3 month Horsemanship Course at his home The Horse Ranch, as well as the Horsemanship Learning Adventure Series; two completely different experiences, High & Wild in the Northern BC Rockies, and Working Equitation with Lusitanos in Brazil.

He rides 30-60 client horses per year, including young horses, restarts, challenging horses, and foundation training. For more information visit www.thehorseranch.com.

(See his listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

Kristen O’Connor Owner Chilliwack BC

Champion Horse Blankets 604-845-7179 championhorsewear@gmail.com • championhorseblankets.com APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 11

Our Ride Master Sgt Paul Kruhlak

Strathcona Mounted Troop on Tour

O

ver the years, we have achieved this aim through the maintenance of the Strathcona Mounted Troop; 20 soldiers dressed in period uniform and mounted on horseback, performing a musical ride and a tent pegging demonstration in communities throughout Western Canada.

These soldiers volunteer for a minimum of one show season. The responsibility and rigor of the Troop is in addition to their normal responsibilities as a soldier of the Canadian Forces. They are committed to presenting our "living history." The Strathcona Mounted Troop provides an active display of a unique part of our national heritage which is enjoyed by thousands of Canadians annually.

When was the Troop formed?

The current Strathcona Mounted Troop

was formed in 1977. The original Ceremonial Mounted Troop was formed in 1923 as a means of honouring and maintaining the Cavalry traditions of the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians). The original Troop was disbanded in 1939 when the Regiment moved to armoured vehicles as Canada joined the world in preparations for the Second World War. Who are the people in the Troop?

The twenty-five members of the Strathcona Mounted Troop are soldiers of Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians). The members of the Troop volunteer for one or two years to serve in much the same manner as Strathcona’s did in the nineteen twenties. Their daily schedule concentrates on the care of their mounts and equipment, and in cavalry drills and training. In addition, they are responsible to remain ready

Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) is a proud Regiment with strong ties to Western Canada. The Regiment has always tried to preserve and perpetuate its traditions and history by maintaining a link to the period when it was first raised, by Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal, as a Regiment of Cavalry in 1900. for active military duty, and must therefore participate in trade specific training.

What is Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians)?

Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) is a regular force armoured unit of the Canadian Forces. The Strathcona’s primary fighting vehicle is the Leopard tank. Its reconnaissance squadron utilizes the Coyote, of the Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV) family. The Strathcona’s are the only regular force armoured unit in Western Canada.

Who owns the horses?

The mounts of the Strathcona Mounted Troop are provided through the Ceremonial Mounted Troop Foundation, and remain Foundation property. The mounts are neither purchased by nor maintained by the Canadian Forces or the Department of National Defense.

Does the Army issue the uniforms and equipment?

The uniforms, accoutrements (badges and buttons) saddles and tack are not the property of the Canadian Forces or the Department of National Defense. These items are provided through the Ceremonial Mounted Troop Foundation, and remain Foundation property.

How does the Strathcona Mounted Troop Travel?

Public support is provided in transporting the Strathcona Mounted Troop with regards to personnel and support vehicles. Transportation of our 20 horse trailer is provided by one of our proud sponsors, Bison Transport. The twentyhorse trailer purchased in 1998, however, was provided by the Ceremonial Mounted Troop Foundation with the assistance of the Wild Rose Foundation.

12 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Can the Strathcona Mounted Troop be booked by any organization?

Any organization or individual can book the Strathcona Mounted Troop throughout the active display season May through October.

Availability is dependent on the distance from Edmonton, Alberta, and on conflict with annual commitments. The Troop, for instance, is booked for all major events at Spruce Meadows.

An information and requirements package will be forwarded to interested parties. Please contact smt@strathconas.ca.

NOTE from Saddle Up editor Nancy Roman… my inquiring mind had some questions regarding the Troop and Captain Ali Mansour has replied, as below.

What horsemanship skills do the Troop recruits have?

None! Our riders are serving Canadian Armed Forces Armoured soldiers from the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians); they are chosen ahead of their peers by Regimental leadership to represent the unit and its Cavalry heritage.

Where did they learn to ride? From who? And how long did it take them to have sufficient skills to ride in public?

Soldiers are posted to the Ceremonial Mounted Troop (CMT) for a period of 3 years and undergo a 6 month Basic Equine Rider Course in order to earn their ‘spurs’. The training is done by the Ride Master and senior soldiers of the Troop. It is quite an astonishing accomplishment to earn your spurs! These soldiers (some of whom have never even seen a horse in person) go from no experience to conducting complex

cavalry drills with one hand at the canter while wearing full scarlets, a brass helmet, and a lance in six months!

Ride Master - Where did he or she gain their skills/knowledge from?

The Ride Master is generally a Sergeant or Warrant Officer who has had two or three tours at the Mounted Troop before taking over. The horsemanship skills are passed down from Ride Master to Ride Master in the same manner as any other training conducted in the Military. We have been fortunate to have Sgt Paul Kruhlak as CMT's Ride Master for over 10 years. He has done several years with the Mounted Troop before taking over as Ride Master. In the years between, he has deployed overseas, taught Military courses, and risen to the rank of Sgt. And are there any female riders?

We do not have any females in the Troop currently, but we have had several female riders in the past, including a female Mounted Troop Leader (my job).

Which horse breeds make up the Troop?

Who trains the horses?

We use American Quarter Horses. Like our soldiers, our horses are trained in house (usually by our Ride Master and senior riders) to perform together as a herd.

When the Troop is not out on tour... what do they do in a normal day?

The soldiers are constantly preparing for the ride season, be it training new riders or maintaining their own skills. During the offseason we tend to practice 2x a day, with a mix of group and individual training. On top of

maintaining and building the Mounted Troop capability to honour our history as a Cavalry Regiment, our soldiers also need to keep up their Battle Training Standards in order to be ready to deploy anywhere in the world. Eight of our riders deployed last year to combat the floods in BC. The Soldiers of CMT are truly remarkable, and proudly contribute to the living history of the Regiment.

Today, the Troop is designated the Strathcona Mounted Troop, to perpetuate the memory of the original mounted regiment. The size of the Troop has fluctuated as resources dictated, but the traditions of the ride have been maintained. As the Troop receives no funding from the Department of National Defense, the Strathcona Mounted Troop Foundation was established. The sole purpose of the Foundation is the maintenance of stock, uniforms and equipment for the Troop. The Foundation is a registered charity and relies heavily on generous donations and the honorariums received from show sponsors. This generosity has empowered the Strathcona Mounted Troop to maintain a living history of our early military traditions.

2022 MOUNTED TROOP RIDE SCHEDULE 21 May 22 - Military Music Spectacular, Topaz Park, Victoria BC 22 May 22 - Musical Ride at the Victoria Highland Games, Topaz Park, Victoria BC 23 May 22 - Victoria Day Parade, Douglas Street, Victoria BC 25 May 22 - Okanagan Military Tattoo, Armstrong BC For more information visit strathconas.ca

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 13

CTHS Alberta Division

By Lindsay Ward Communications Coordinator

Alberta Thoroughbred Breed Improvement Program: Increases in Breeding Support Announced for 2022

T

he details of the 2022 Horse Racing Alberta Thoroughbred Breed Improvement Program are now available. The total Thoroughbred allocation for the Breed Improvement Program has increased by 19% to $1,886,660 this year from $1,581,465 in 2021.

Breeders will now share in total Breeders Support of $472,830, which includes an additional $132,598 over the 2021 amount of $340,232. In 2021, the highest breeders bonus paid out was $41,850 and the average breeders bonus was $3,658. $472,830 is available in Owners Breeding Support, which includes $100,000 to fund the purses of Alberta bred restricted races.

2022 funding for both Breeders and Owners has been increased by 39% over the 2021 amount. The monies will be dispersed to breeders and owners of horses of all ages foaled in Alberta placing win, place and show in all sanctioned races in Alberta having a minimum $7,000 purse and where entered at or above a minimum $6,250 Claiming price.

Owners of Alberta breds have $300,000 designated for the restricted Alberta Breeders Fall Classic races, which will have a minimum purse of $50,000 each.

Stallion owners’ breeding support offers a stallion bonus of $65,000 to be paid proportionately to stallion owners whose stallions have eligible Alberta Thoroughbred progeny with earnings of $10,000 or greater during the calendar year. Stallions must have stood in the province of Alberta for the entire calendar year of conception for each year’s crop to be eligible.

The Breed Improvement Program works to reward breeders and owners producing quality in Alberta bred Thoroughbreds performing at the highest level of racing.

Visit the CTHS Alberta website at cthsalta.com/breedimprovement-program to read further details.

CTHS sale graduate and Alberta bred runner PEARL OF KNOWLEDGE has earned her breeder a total breeders’ bonus of $23,622 to date with more race seasons ahead!

T

he Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (Alberta Division) has released exciting details of the new Mare Recruitment Program (MRP) offering incentives to mare owners who bring an in-foal mare to Alberta to foal in 2022!

The criteria for the MRP program are: • Breeders will receive a $750 CAD incentive for each in-foal mare brought to Alberta.

• The in-foal mare must not have foaled in Alberta in 2020 or 2021.

• Mares that were eligible for the HBPA Mare Purchase Program are not eligible for the Mare Recruitment Program.

• Maiden mares are eligible for the MRP upon proof that mare resided outside of Alberta for at least 3 months in the last year.

• Breeders of an MRP eligible mare receive an additional $250 if, after foaling, the mare is bred to an Alberta sire during the 2022 breeding season.

• In-foal mares purchased in 2021 at the following recognized public auctions such as Wannamaker’s Online Sale, Fasig-Tipton November Breeding Stock Sale, Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale, Keeneland January Horses of All Ages Sale, OBS Winter Mixed Sale, Fasig-Tipton Midatlantic Winter Mixed Sale and Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale, are not eligible.

The deadline for submission of applications is May 31st, 2022.

For further details, visit the CTHS Alberta website cthsalta.com/ marerecruitmentprogram

YOUR BEST BET IS AN ALBERTA BRED! 14 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

For the Kids - Balance Equestrian Clothing We are a lifestyle… children's equestrian clothing brand. Bringing cute fashion that suits every day.

Who doesn’t like yoga comfort? This tight was designed for everyday life and barn life. Yes, you can have it all. It has the elements of yoga legging comfort and technical elements for riding. No bulky knee patches and it has the silicone sticky bum to help assist your littles’ bottom to stay in the seat.

This is a winner for taking every day to barn life.

B

alance Equestrian Clothing was both a surprise and blessing. Much like the rest of the world, we had no idea that 2020 was going to be such an impactful year, the most life changing year of our lives.

Not only did we fear what the pandemic meant, but life as we knew it was turned upside down.

One of the things that saved our family and gave us sanity was horseback riding. Especially the kids. With all the riding and time spent at the barn we found there was a lack of kids clothing in Canada, and there was very little representation of diversity. We never thought that we would ever start a clothing brand, but here we are.

A combo of life, a 2020 pandemic and our love of horses sprung an idea. Now, a dream come true. We launched Balance Equestrian Clothing in August 2021… a colourful, comfortable and affordable line of kids equestrian riding clothes, made of quality materials that support barn life.

If we have learned anything at all during the pandemic is that help goes a long way and is vital in keeping channels open to people who need it. That is the heart of our core belief system.

Our success is and will be success for others. People need each other to grow and make the world a better place. So we hope that we can contribute to grow the equestrian culture to be more inclusive and diverse. We are a part of positive change, with clothing that allows our customers to feel good knowing their purchase is making a difference in the equestrian world.

We are a small business with big goals and loving hearts.

STEP INTO STYLE Awesome apparel for the Modern Equestrian Kid Mention this ad for FREE SHIPPING! Enter Code: saddleupship free shipping North America only

Victoria BC balanceequestrianapparel.com APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 15

EMPOWER YOUR HORSE THROUGH “I believe horses naturally have tremendous faith in the Human Being. It is their natural instinct of self-preservation that the person needs to understand in order to gain the confidence of the horse.” - Tom Dorrance

As prey animals horses see things differently than we do. For example, let’s say you and your horse ride by the same mailbox four times without issue, but on the fifth time she spooks. Being a skeptical sort, she had been watching the mailbox each time she passed but suddenly saw it in a different light, on the fifth time around; her natural instinct of self -preservation kicked in. Horses are genetically programmed to go on alert, and it’s at this moment we need to support them through knowledge and strategies, proving to her, she is not going to be eaten.

E

monster, spreading to other parts of a horse's life where they evolve into a nervous wreck over the littlest things. Not only is this horse now worried, all the time, because she’s naturally skeptical but she knows there’s a good chance she’s going to be forced through a threshold every time her leader is with her; a recipe for disaster.

We learn new skills when there’s healthy pressure on us. However, pressure with little to no release can lead to serious emotional struggle.

Let’s visit the self-preservation factor and a strategy for helping a This is true of humans, and is certainly true for our horses. It’s easy to skeptic. It doesn’t matter where the skepticism or fear originated fall into the trap of pushing through thresholds. We are, by nature, goal orientated, and we sometimes come to believe that our horses will from, but it does matter how you react to it. get over it eventually, or that we can hang in “What exactly is a sweet there, or we listen to our coach when they ask At some point in our relationship with our horse, whether intended or not, we have spot? To frame it succinctly, us to keep up the pressure, even though they do not understand our horse. all applied extra pressure during a training a sweet spot provides a I too have been in this situation. I have session or lesson. This extra pressure is called, horse with a feeling of allowed myself to listen and follow a coach's ‘pushing a horse through a threshold.’ I see suggestion, and it was not what my horse it often, and most riders don’t realize the safety and comfort. needed. She got worse instead of better, and negative impact this has on the performance and wellbeing of their horse. A horse can, at best, tolerate pressure but it took time, patience and understanding to get her back to where she never totally accept it, and at worst the fear and anxiety associated was emotionally and mentally fit enough to respond in a left brain with the pressure escalates to where they develop opposition reflex. thinking mode rather than right brain reactive. We're human. We make Opposition reflex refers to your horse’s instinctive reaction to any mistakes. We grow from those mistakes and our horse benefits from physical pressure. This pressure causes them to automatically do the this growth. In those mistakes and growth, there is the mystery of who our horses are and what is needed to connect with them. It is that opposite of what you want.

Alternatively, they may perform an action like rearing, or head mystery that we are working to uncover.

As Neil Armstrong is quoted as saying, “Mystery creates wonder tossing. These could be mild reflexes or they could grow into an ugly quines would never have survived these thousands of years if they weren’t skeptical of everything. It doesn’t make sense to us, but for a horse skepticism is necessary, perhaps life-saving.

Skepticism can lead to fear which is real in a horse's mind, and the sooner we accept it and work with the way a horse thinks, the better.

But, how do we address this?

16 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

‘S w e et Sp o ts ’

and wonder is the basis of man's desire to understand.” The mystery is our horse and the wonder is striving to understand and learn how best to serve her.

SWEET SPOTS “What exactly is a sweet spot? To frame it succinctly, a sweet spot provides a horse with a feeling of safety and comfort. It encourages curiosity and invites pleasure. It’s in the sweet spots of how we come to understand our horses that can change their behaviour for the better. This requires a balance of patience and knowing. Knowing when to ask, when to back off and when to wait. Sweet spots create a safe haven where a horse begins to understand they won’t be pushed too far, where their fears, anxieties and apprehension are respected.

People hope for this kind of empathy, why should our horses hope for anything different. Having success with sweet spots soon leads to braver moments, more curiosity and try.

There are a few things that go into creating a ‘sweet spot’.

SAFETY What is the first thing a horse needs in life? It's not a cookie, it’s feeling safe. All prey animals need to feel safe first, then comes comfort.

If this is true then our main concern and goal with our horse should be to make sure they are feeling safe. Then, and only then, do we ask if she is comfortable. Once there, she can easily move into a learning frame of mind. At this point, we will teach something new too. This is a horse who wants to be present. This is a horse who will do more for us tomorrow than she could today.

REPETITION Horses that are learning something new, and are worried or skeptical, need repetition. The more right brain a horse is, the more repetition she likes. When a horse is struggling emotionally, repetition works well. Doing too much repetition, on the other hand, and thinking this is the key to a happy jolly horse, is a sure way to put too much pressure on your horse. Balance is the key, and there is still another piece to the puzzle.

IS SHE BEING HEARD? A horse needs to feel that she is being heard and understood, that her fear and anxiety are real, and we are there to help her work through the bad feelings. You can ask your horse to do a thousand repetitions, however, if there is even a little fear associated with what they are doing, and they feel forced, there’s a high probability that the trust doesn’t exist, and they will remain in their right brain (RB) fearful mode. This is where the psychology of creating sweet spots comes in.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MAKE AND A WANT Every time we push too hard, get angry, frustrated, force or expect too much from our horse, we are employing a ‘make’ attitude and the Continued on page 18

EXQUISITE FINE ART

BY ACCLAIMED ARTISTS FOR THE MODERN HOME

Buy online gallery421.ca | 250.448.8888 | Kelowna, BC APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 17

Continued from page 17 horse will more often than not, either shut down or explode.

A ‘want,’ on the other hand, is when the horse wants to or, at the very least, tries to do it, or is brave just a little more than they were before. Actions like, asking and waiting for a response, or advancing to what is scary and then retreating, give a horse time to think and digest what was asked of her. These are a few examples of offering a horse time to think and regroup her emotions, and are an incredibly important element that can’t be ignored.

Horses want to get along. Offer them a safe and comfortable way to be with you, and they will follow. Let them know you are not going to push them through thresholds, and they will be glad to give you their heart.

TURNING FEAR INTO CURIOSITY ‘Curiosity’ is an important word. One of Tom Dorrance’s and Pat Parelli’s favourite sayings is, “Never knock the curiosity out of a horse.”

Like having their natural instinct for self-preservation, horses have an inner curiosity that has the power to override skepticism and fear, replacing them with confidence and bravery.

When I was training down in Colorado at the Parelli ranch years ago, I learned firsthand how a horse’s fear can move into curiosity which then swings into confidence. Pat has a very large outdoor arena where, one afternoon, I took my mare, Moon, to work on a lesson.

There was one other rider at the far end of the arena working with his horse who was dragging a mechanical bull behind him. Seeing the bull moving in strange jerky moves, my mare stopped in her tracks. She had a complete meltdown. Knowing if I didn’t act fast she would be headed for the hills, I interrupted her thoughts and asked her to retreat even further than the fifty metres we were at from the bull, to where she was able to stand and stare from a distance and not feel the need to take off. This was a great opportunity to see if this fear of hers could turn into curiosity. It did. Calling over to the other rider, I asked if Moon and I could follow behind his mechanical bull. To my surprise and delight, it took less than twenty minutes to see a positive change. Moon and I ended up not only close to the bull but she wanted to touch and push it with her nose. This was all her idea. All I did was facilitate and give her the option to retreat whenever she needed to feel safe and think about the situation. In the end it was her curiosity that continued to drive her to the bull.

of the process, their emotions should matter. To ensure we are accounting for their emotions, as the leader we must do what is necessary to ensure that emotional support. To support our horse we need to take the time it takes to nurture their emotions, allowing them time to think and sort out what was just asked. If we take this approach the horse will figure out there is no need to be skeptical or fearful. Once there, a horse owns their own victory. Moving slowly by virtue of retreat and waiting, empowered my horse Moon to where she felt confident and brave and it’s at this stage I can move along faster in her education. She has been emotionally and mentally prepared to handle the next uncertain instinctual feeling that comes her way.

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH A SWEET SPOT Horses can get to a point where they receive so much joy out of the game of sweet spots, they start to seek sweet spots out. Remember, sweet spots can be anything from obstacles like bridges, gates, and creeks. Maybe even a scary corner can turn into a sweet spot. Many years ago I had a lovely little quarter horse named Wyatt, who had a love affair with pedestals. One day, I was riding in my arena, when my husband Rick called me to the fence. I casually cantered Wyatt to where Rick stood. I was focusing on him, and didn't realize Wyatt was focused on something else. There was a cheap plastic table I had tucked in the corner by where Rick was standing and as we approached the fence, I felt Wyatt rear up and before I knew what had happened, the table was crushed beneath us. Still standing on the flattened table, he turned to look at me as if to say, “this is exactly what you wanted, right?”

Realizing I created a pedestal monster, I learned to be more careful around obstacles. In spite of this, I was thrilled that he had this love affair with learning, experimenting, and thinking obstacles are fun.

Sweet spots help our horses move over to their left brain thought processes to where they learn to sort out their emotions. Eventually, the fear and anxiety dissolves, bringing a braver and more curious horse into being. This brings joy and a feeling of success to horse and human. Who wouldn’t want a horse who, given the opportunity, can sort out their own emotions?

If horses have faith in human beings, and we understand their natural self-preservation, it seems to me we have an opportunity to be with a horse that can excel at her job and enjoy every moment we share with them.

ADVANCE AND RETREAT This is how sweet spots work. If the horse is scared, nervous or has some anxiety, we move to the edge of her bubble, where she feels safe.

I then ask for her to be a little bit brave and move closer to the scary obstacle. Before she feels the pressure, we turn away and retreat. This gives her the opportunity to regroup her emotions before I ask again.

About Sandy Lang: I’m a foundation specialist with focus on Working Equitation (WE), a new and exhilarating equine sport. I live in the lush Fraser Valley of BC with my husband, and a small herd of exceptional horses. My goal is to help horse and human realize how a solid foundation is the key to a successful WE journey. I teach Foundation and WE lessons and clinics at my facility in Abbotsford BC.

THE PROCESS CAN BE SLOW One of my favourite sayings is, “slow is fast.” If your horse is part

(See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

18 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Pain Management Through

By Lisa Wieben

Energy Work

When we sustain an injury blood rushes to the area to bring healing energy. This is the acute phase of an injury. Pain is our body’s signal to rest and relax in order to allow the healing to take place. There are ways that we can help the body as it heals and relieve some of the pain, especially in the case of ongoing pain. Pain is often the stagnation or blockage of the natural flow of energy.

T

Finishing a session by tracing large or small hese methods will work for both you figure 8’s over the area will clear the energy in and your horse and energy work does your energy field and environment. They also not interfere with the body’s natural naturally create crossovers, which are healing ability to heal and often helps the body by to the body. If I have an injury or feel pain in an releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain area I will often trace figure 8’s over the area suppression. while I am watching TV or have a short break While there are many ways to work with Gently tapping in my day. When tracing you can have direct pain, such as working with the meridians the muscles to contact with the body or do slightly off the (energy pathways in the body) that go through release tension body. the area of pain, in this article I will give you If you are working with your horse using quick and easy techniques that you can use these techniques let your horse tell you which anywhere, without charts or tools. The only method it likes best. When they start to feel the tools you need are your hands. energy shift they will often lick, chew, yawn, If you have a localized area of pain you lower their head, or blink more often. You will can use a technique call Chakra Clearing. know that what you are doing is working.

Often energy ‘vortexes’ (swirling energy) develop over areas of pain which slow down Note: if the reason for the pain is not obvious the healing process. Doing slow counterand energy techniques do not alleviate the clockwise circles (5-7 seconds per circle) over Gently trace figure 8's pain or reveal its source, be sure to have it the area for 2-5 minutes will help to clear and in all directions over draw out stagnated energy. As you are circling checked by a healthcare professional. an area of pain visualize the energy releasing. To stabilize the area, circle your hand in a slow clockwise Lisa Wieben is an Essential Somatic Clinical motion for 30-60 seconds. We often use the Practitioner, an Eden Method Clinical Practitioner, left hand (counter-clockwise) to clear and the uses Bach Flower Remedies, and is a Centered right (clockwise) to stabilize, but if your arm Riding Instructor, Equine Canada Competition gets tired it is perfectly fine to switch hands. When working on your Coach, and Irwin Insights Level 7 Coach. Her passion is bringing self-care horse you may want to stand on a step so that you don’t have to lift your tools to people so that they can continue to do what they love! www. arm up too high to circle, depending on the area you are working with. somaticrider.com Another way to help a localized area of pain is to stretch and pinch the area. In this technique begin by using your fingers to gently stretch (See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS) from the centre of the painful area to 3-5 cm to the outside of the area.

Stretch out to all sides then gently pinch the centre of the area. The stretch helps to move congested energy in the painful area and the pinch activates the Spindle Cell mechanism and sends a signal to the brain that the pain is no longer necessary. (Do not use this method if there is an open wound.) You can use several tiny pinches after the stretch.

One of my favourite ways to release pain, especially over muscular areas, is to tap the area with a hairbrush, preferably a wide, flat brush with plastic coated bristles. Gently tapping the area loosens congested energy so it can move freely. If you do not have a brush handy, tapping with your fingertips is also effective. (Again, do not use this method if there is an open wound.) This can be a wonderful addition to your grooming routine before and/or after a ride or tap those tight shoulder/ neck areas on your body after spending time at your computer or laptop.

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 19

Canadian Warmblood News

Studbooks turned on to Video Inspections by Covid

By Chris Gould / CWHBA - Photography: CWHBA A number of studbooks have instituted video inspections over the past two years as Covid restrictions played havoc with the ability to gather in groups and to travel inspectors – especially across borders. The Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders Association is no exception.

In 2020 a few regional inspections did take place and the CWHBA offered a provisional breeding license to those stallions that presented at these events; adjudicated by a minimum of three accredited mare inspectors.

In 2021, with no prospect of bringing in international guest inspectors, the CWHBA switched to a video system. At the time of writing, the final adjudication has not yet been completed, however a number of observations may be made about the pros and cons of the system.

First the stallion licensing inspections were hosted across Canada, as before, on a regional basis (Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia).

At each site a senior stallion inspector was present to score in person and supervise the procedure to ensure that all guidelines were followed.

Professional videographers were hired and required to comply with standard protocols. Videos were not to be edited to remove any footage while the horses were being viewed. In the end, each stallion had a 25 to 30 minute video.

Once they were uploaded to the internet, the panel of judges reviewed the videos at their own convenience. Finally a Zoom meeting was convened with two guest judges from Europe, the supervising inspectors, and studbook committee members. Each stallion’s video was then shared on line and reviewed with the supervising inspectors awarding their scores, followed by discussion to arrive at a final mark.

So, how did it work out?

On the plus side there are several advantages: Expert guest participation was possible, perhaps even to a level not previously possible at a live inspection.

By using freeze-frame or replaying segments, additional time could be spent before arriving at a consensus.

The inspection schedule could be tailored to the regional needs, eliminating the need for a travelling team with a tight schedule. A great advantage in a country as large as Canada, thereby improving the opportunity for stallions to be presented.

Every stallion was evaluated by the same panel. At the live inspections only two inspectors travel to every location for continuity.

On the other hand, there are cons that should be considered: We had good video, but it’s also possible that a video session that did not follow the guidelines, or was of poor quality, could compromise a stallion’s chances.

There is a lengthy time delay for stallion owners waiting to hear the results.

Video is rarely flattering, so it’s still important to have the on-site inspector, and would be more ideal if the same person could visit each site to improve consistency.

Overall, and even though the final adjudication has not been completed, this first experience was certainly positive from the judges’ perspective, and may prove to be an accurate and fair way to proceed in the future.

However, it remains to be seen whether the advantages will mean that video review becomes a regular part of future stallion gradings.

20 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Canadian Warmblood Joins Alberta High Performance Event Team Congratulations Courtney Benton and MJ Samba on joining the Alberta High Performance Event Team. Unique to Alberta, sponsored by Alberta Horse Trials, the High Performance Program is designed to support the development of riders, coaches and horses.

Courtney’s horse MJ Samba (Whirlwind x Fantast) bred by Jennette and Mara Coote of MJ Farms was sold to Courtney at the 2017 CWHBA Fall Classic Breeder’s Sale.

Hi! My name is Courtney Benton, I have been riding for almost as long as I can remember and eventing for the last 12 years. I am a professional equestrian based out of Red Deer, AB. I run a small grassroots program and I am actively involved with Red Deer Pony Club. This is my first year with Alberta High Performance.

My current horse is MJ Samba, a 2014 Canadian Warmblood mare who was bred right here in Alberta. I purchased Samba as a 3-year-old from the Warmblood Breeder’s Sale, and she made her eventing debut as a 4-year-old. In 2021, we upgraded to training level, and 1.10m in the jumpers. This upcoming season, we hope to move up to prelim with long term goals of FEI levels. Samba is full of personality and is such a fun partner, her nickname is “Hippo” as she will eat absolutely anything – her favourite treats are jelly donuts and chai tea lattes.

I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Development Team, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us!

Congratulations go to Lorrie Jamieson of Bentley Alberta taking the win at the Arizona Winter Circuit in Tucson!!

She bested the field in the $24,500 Grand Prix on her own Klondike Victory Farm bred Canadian Warmblood ~ Hooz Da Kat (Zeno x Tempranillo). This team showed their great partnership with a blazing jump off time of 41.763

Hooz-Da-Kat and Lorrie Jamieson

BREEDING | TRAINING | SALES

Corso

Corso is a handsome Stallion with all the qualities desired by the modern Sport Horse breeder.

His calm, reliable temperament and desire to please along with good bone, correct conformation and ground covering movement combine to complete the perfect package.

Corso’s sire “CICERO” is by Cor de la Bryere, an important foundation sire in the Holsteiner breed. To date he has produced quality, good-minded offspring with Thoroughbred-type mares.

Frozen semen only available

Cupid

since 1989

Cupid is a Holsteiner-bred Canadian Warmblood Stallion.

Cupid’s sire “CASSINI” is known for his legendary jumping ability that is passed on to his offspring.

His dam is by “SILVANO N,” Olympic Silver Medal dressage horse (following a career as a Grand Prix jumper).

This combination of world class jumping and dressage lines make him extremely athletic and versatile, especially combined with his outstanding friendly temperament.

Cupid - Fresh semen available May & June 2022 July onwards - frozen semen For semen, fresh or frozen contact Sheila McDonald at Okanagan Equine Veterinary Services 250-764-9888 Cupid is currently in training with Lindsey Legroulx at Equi-Life Sport Horses’ facility in Kelowna BC.

For more information and breeding contracts for both Stallions, please contact: (Owner) Ueli & Ruth Boss 250-546-7959 in Armstrong BC / E-mail: bossru2002@gmail.com

100 MILE HOUSE BC

OFFERED AT $2,650,000 MLS® R2614723

Property Features

WAITING FOR YOU IS A FABULOUS ESTABLISHED EQUESTRIAN CENTRE ON 30 ACRES! For more information please contact: Gisela Janzen, Personal Real Estate Corporation E-mail: Sold@100MileHomes.com Cell 250-706-1186 / Office 250-395-3422 100milehomes.com

Within 15 minutes to 100 Mile House, this beautiful 1,910 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch-style home offers views of the barn, stables and arenas. The layout of the property is so well-designed to make for a very smooth and efficient operation. At present there is a boarding capacity for 27 horses - all with individual stalls and runs. A fabulous 70’x160’ indoor riding area with energy efficient lighting allows for evening riding which is a main draw for this location. Many outbuildings including 3 large hay barns to hold 4,000 bales of hay, main barn, a club house, 9 12’x24’ double stalls & 3 12’x12’ singles. A 100’x200’ outdoor arena, plus a 50’ round pen and so much more.

Turnkey operation built up by present owners who are ready to retire now.

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 21

Cowboy Poetry I'LL BE IN THE BARN Author Unknown When people have come to visit over the years they commonly hear from me I'll be in the barn.

When life gets hard I'll be in the barn.

When things are just right I'll be in the barn.

When the sun shines, The rain falls, Or snow covers the ground, I'll be in the barn.

If things seem to be falling apart or if I'm celebrating the simple things, I'll be in the barn.

When I'm looking for answers or trying to clear my mind, I'll be in the barn.

When I'm looking for myself, I'll be in the barn.

If I'm working or trying to relax, I'll be in the barn.

Even when I'm not in the barn my mind drifts there, I find myself thinking about being in the barn..... soaking feed for the next day, mucking or spreading manure, how to fix a problem I've been having with a horse, tack that needs to be cleaned or changed or mended, wounds that need to be doctored, if I need to put on blankets or fly masks.

It's where I keep my riches, all my wins and my failures, every one of my hopes, dreams, hardships and memories.

You can find them all in the barn, buried in the hay, hiding under a saddle, spilling out of the feed bins, or glimmering with dust in the evening light.

I may be covered in dust, dirt, a mash feed, hair, and hay, smell of sweat and manure, and sometimes there may be blood or tears but I'll be there. I'll be in the barn.

So if you’re wondering where to find me, I'll be in the barn.

If I'm not there, I promise I'm on my way.

IN MEMORIAM I

LA R RY S T E WA RT

22 • APRIL 2022

t is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Stewart, well-known horseman, with his partner and wife, Leslie, of 38 years by his side. Larry suffered a massive stroke in 2015 finally succumbing to pneumonia on February 4, 2022.

Larry was a farrier for 35 years as well as a horse trainer. In 1993 he was introduced to the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program, in 1995 becoming the first instructor in Canada and the Canadian Distributor until 2006.

Larry touched many horse and human lives throughout Canada, Australia, France and the US. He is survived by his son Dallas, stepsons Jeff Stewart, Shane Fraser, stepdaughter Shannon (Rusty Hendrickson), brothers Gary (Betty), Melvin (Ethelann), Ron (Ami), Walter (Alva), Rocky (Cathy), sisters Gail all of Fort St. John, Joyce (Jim) of Red Deer, 9 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at his ranch in Lumby BC on May 28th at 1 pm. Call Leslie at 250-549-0881 for details.

SADDLEUP.CA

An Old Farrier (Shared on Facebook, Author Unknown)

U

nder a shade tree an old man sat, his hands twisted and knuckles scarred.

He was slumped and tired, worn out by weather and horses, useless and empty.

Once this old man could shoe any horse with hair on its hide. He could make his hammer blows sing like music on his anvil. He did it for a hundred years until his knees were gone, shoulders ached and his arms grew weak.

He heard talk nearby, listened quietly to the voices of inexperience and slowly stood and limped over to where the boys stood in the sun. He groaned with each halting step.

The old farrier looked down at the horse and said, "Mind if I put in my two cents?" Well, the young men snickered, smiled and looked the old empty man up and down.

"You're a little long in the tooth, old fella.

I reckon you're here to give us some old time advice?" one of the young men said.

Laughing, another chimed in, "Do us a favour huh, and just go rest in the shade cause we got this problem worked out. You see, times are changed and we're specialists in the farrier trade."

The old man smiled. "I know you boys have it licked. You know just what to do for this old horse and I’m just in your way, but it sounded like you could use a little help. Don't mind me I'll just get on back to the shade."

Hesitantly, one young man stepped forward and touched the ancient farrier on his arm and said, "I'd like to know what you have to say. You see, I want to learn what it takes to be a man like you, to have shod the horses you have.

So, please stay and teach me something not in our books, will ya?"

The old man smiled, his face like dry leather and said, "Hand me your tools son, and we can make this horse run and play." With that, the stooped and gray old man lifted the horse’s foot and went to work. He trimmed, shaped the foot, flipped the rasp in his hand and pointed at a cracked and broken heel and said quietly, "Bar shoe is what you need."

A bunch of young farriers stood looking down at a horse’s foot. They talked of what to do and how to do it, and what measures to take to make the horse sound again, shaking their heads.

"Well we knew that ole man," the first guy snickered.

"We don’t have any bar shoes on the truck," said another. "What now?"

The wrinkled old man went to the hot shot’s truck, fired his forge and cut a piece of iron. He slipped it into the fire and let it heat.

Then fished it out of the inferno and began shaping the red hot steel on the anvil. He worked fast and sure, tapping the hot steel here and there, making a miracle of beauty and grace, a shoe to make the horse stand straight and feel good.

Quenched, holes punched, rasped clean, he took the shoe, filled his mouth with nails and picked up a driving hammer. He limped over to the horse and groaned as he picked up the foot. Taking a breath he steadied himself and one by one he drove the nails.

He slowly straightened up and stretched out his back, curved with years of bending over. A young man picked up the foot and

the kids didn't say a whole lot, just shook their heads and one muttered a "well damn."

The old man said, "That sure felt good! I always wonder about the last shoe I'll nail on a horse. I hope this ain't it. I hope God will spare me knowing it’s my last shoe. I will never get over the feeling you get when you've done a horse right."

The old man replaced the kid’s tools, and limped back to his chair in the shade. The young farriers watched. They knew they had seen something they might never see again, just an old farrier.

Last feet. Last horses. The last time you feel needed for your knowledge, for the skills you've worked hard to know.

Someday we will all do those last things, and when our last breath rattles and we close our eyes, a flight of angel wings will lift our souls and carry us away to where the horses always stand, it’s always cool and the anvil always rings true.

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 23

GETAWAY

CANADIAN AFFORDABLE ESCAPES

24 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

M

ontana Hill Guest Ranch is a working cattle ranch that sits in the heart of cowboy country in the South Cariboo, located an hour and a half north of Kamloops BC. We are open yearround so you can explore, experience, and live the ranch life in any season. You may even get a chance to be here when calving is in full swing. We have 4 upscale one bedroom log cabins, each with its own Vermont cast iron gas fireplace, ensuite and kitchenette. Each cabin is appointed with western collectables and antiques. You’re welcome to bring your own horse or ride one of ours. Just imagine after a hard day on the trail, coming “home” to enjoy a soothing soak in your own private hot tub. We’re also offering a free artisan cheese making course with a 3-night stay. With hundreds of acres to explore, it’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, canoeing, or just a leisurely walk to slow down and enjoy nature. Other activities available… ATV or snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, axe throwing, archery. You can learn to milk our jersey cow Lexi and feed some calves. Plenty of fun for the whole family.

BRAND A MEMORY

Stay with us.

Bring your own horse or ride one of ours!

Pet Friendly Private hots tubs All Season Destination

Hundreds of acres to Explore!

Call to book: 250-593-9807 montanahillguestranch.com

C

E

nrich your life with a horseback vacation with access to over 8000 acres! There is so much to see, experience and appreciate in the foothills of Alberta. Join Saddle Peak Trail Rides as we ride into our 44th season (established 1978) of providing guided rides by the hour, day or week. Great family vacations and adventure packages suitable for all levels of riding ability. Rustic lodge and cabin 3 & 4 day trips to the Yaha Tinda, Panther, Dormer river area. Three day pack trips (tent camp) to Devils Head Mountain. Ranch based rides with country inn accommodation (crossingexperience.ca).

The land, as a whole, has always provided opportunities to connect its visitors with its countless treasures and natural beauty and continues to be recognized for its intangible qualities, rich history and natural beauty. Father and son Dave and Cody Richards guide small groups along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies, sharing stories, knowledge and passion of their outfitting heritage in Alberta.

Visit our web site, call or text us to reserve your ride today!

A Rustic Adventure awaits You in the Canadian Rockies Established 1978

Located west of Cochrane, Alberta 403-922-7430 saddlepeaktrailrides@gmail.com

Offering Guided Rides from 1 hour to multi-day

saddlepeaktrailrides.ca

hilcotin Holidays offers ranch day rides where sure-footed mountain horses introduce guests to the South Chilcotin Mountains. The horse pack trips take guests further into the mountains, heightening their nature connection, refining their horse care skills and contributing to conservation with species population counts. Guests can ride self-guided through the South Chilcotin Mountains, in the southeast corner of the Chilcotin Ark, an area of international ecological importance. 25 mountain camps located in their guide area, including the South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park and the Big Creek Provincial Park, allow riders to explore the mountains, enjoying the subalpine meadows, knowing there is a secure camp with a log cabin, grazing for their horses and a warm fire. Bed and bale with ranch-based cabins or campsites, power, water and grazing for guests' horses is also available. Guests explore the surrounding wilderness with a secure ranch base and a community team available to assist with route choice and horse care. For those who want to develop their horse skills further they can join a one and two week horseback wilderness mentor guide program this summer. Also, students can join Chilcotin Holidays' online community with their training website the Wilderness Training Academy. See the website to find out which wilderness experience is right for you!

GET BACK TO NATURE IN THE

CHILCOTIN MOUNTAINS Ranch cabin rentals Ranch campsite rentals

Alpine meadow cabin rentals 1000 kms of horse trails

(guided rentals or bring your own)

250-238-2274 • chilcotinholidays.com APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 25

Proper Lunging Part 2 – Correcting Alignment Issues

Birgit helps a student find the correct lunging position while lunging Miho, a Quarter Horse/Arabian cross gelding owned

by Falling Star Ranch.

By Lisa Wieben and Birgit Stutz

In part two of our article on lunging we are adding pieces of equipment as well as talking about correcting alignment issues with the use of the whip to help shape the horse more on the circle and develop bend and relaxation.

Why we lunge with a Vienna rein If a horse is chronically inverted (high-headed with hollow back) or counter bent we prefer to lunge with a Vienna rein. The Vienna rein is a combination of a draw rein and side rein but it is not hooked up static and therefore encourages the horse to stretch long and low into a proper frame. The horse will feel better while stretching and bending.

To attach it, run the lunge line from your hand through the snaffle bit ring from the outside and then attach it to the d-ring of the cinch, the buckle of the girth, or the ring of the surcingle.

Do not use a Vienna rein if you are unsure of your body position as you could send conflicting signals to the horse (see previous article Proper Lunging Part 1 on using the wheelbarrow turn).

We sometimes use an outside side rein, but only in order to prevent the horse from overbending through his neck. The side rein should be adjusted fairly loosely so it only engages when the horse starts to overbend.

If your horse lunges well, carries himself properly without inverting and counter bending, and is not prone to bucking or bolting (being silly), you may lunge your horse directly off the bit using a D-ring or full-cheek snaffle bit.

Contact The lunge line should never be slack, but instead there should always be steady, elastic contact between the horse’s mouth and the lunger’s hand so that the horse cannot flip his nose out/change his bend or make an unwanted turn.

The lunge line should never be used to pull the horse into a turn. The contact with the horse should be giving, taking and blocking, never pulling (imagine a bungee cord).

Hold the lines in folds rather than loops as they will unravel easier if the horse were to jump, bolt, or spook.

Pirro, 7-yearold Warmblood gelding, wearing a cavesson (owned

by Lisa Wieben) 26 • APRIL 2022

Additional equipment for lunging Additional equipment for lunging includes a surcingle or saddle, a lunge line used as a Vienna rein, as well as side reins. Protective boots for the horse are also recommended. Don’t forget your gloves! Instead of a bridle you may want to use a lunging cavesson.

For a simple and effective piece of lunging equipment, the cavesson has many benefits.

The cavesson has rings along the nose piece which when the line is attached to the middle ring (centre of nose piece) it can guide the horse on the circle, encouraging the horse to maintain true bend rather than counter bending. With the horse in true bend it is easier to shape the horse’s body with the use of the whip and body language. Throughout a lunging session the horse can be encouraged to stretch down as well as move more uphill through the use of body language and the whip (see below corrections with use of whip).

SADDLEUP.CA

Corrections with use of whip If your horse is shaped like this (diagram Counter bent) point the whip to the girth to ask for bend, flex the lunge line by rolling your wrist as the horse’s inside front foot hits Counter bent the ground (the horse is more balanced to bend as the head and neck are balanced over this foot at the moment of contact), keep your core toward the girth. Alternatively, use the whip low along the ground from back to front in a sweeping motion so that the lash pushes the barrel of the horse out on the circle (the horse will see the lash along the Haunches to ground). Or, if the horse ignores this, allow inside the lash to touch the belly as you make a soft arc with the whip and lash. The horse will feel the lash and move the barrel out of the circle bringing the head and haunches onto the track in true bend. (diagram - Haunches to inside) - As you are walking the circle, keep your core pointing at the girth to continue to ask for bend; flex Shoulder to your wrist as the outside front leg hits the inside ground (this asks for the horse to turn back into the circle), and at the same time push your hips toward the horse’s hips to ask the hips to move out of the circle (maintain core alignment with the girth to prevent the horse’s shoulders from falling in). Depending Correct on how much push is needed you may point alignment the whip toward the hip. The lash is not of the horse needed, only the energy of the push out.

Ideally the horse will move forward with the inside hind stepping between the footsteps of the two front footsteps. If you find that as you push the hips out and flex to create bend that the horse overbends then you can add a side rein to the outside to prevent over bending. (diagram Shoulders to inside) - Check in with your alignment. Keep the whip pointing toward the shoulders to prevent them from coming in, core to girth. Sometimes the handler is walking too much toward the hind end. This can cause the hip to push out and shoulders to come

in. Maintain a small walking circle and review the wheelbarrow turn.

Adding an outside side rein to prevent over bending to the inside can also be helpful. Asking for more forward energy can also be beneficial.

(Pic- Inverted horse) - The horse is likely unbalanced and tight.

Use the Vienna rein to encourage the horse to flex down to level and encourage the horse to bend on the circle by using the whip long and low from back to front with the lash reaching out toward the horse or touching the barrel. In our next article we will discuss moving the circles on the lunge line which helps to 'unlock' a high-headed horse.

Work with this horse in-hand to encourage bending and suppleness before moving on to lunging. This will greatly reduce any stress the horse will feel on the lunge circle.

Avoid holding the whip high as that will cause stress in the horse as the horse reads the whip as an inverted or rearing horse. Raising the whip high is very dominant and should only be used with a very aggressive horse who challenges the handler.

In general, keep the whip low to level and send impulsive energy towards the horse’s body from back to front as needed. Avoid sending energy from the whip towards the horse’s neck and head.

Don’t use a whip until your body language is correct.

Sometimes a horse will see our pressure as too much push when we are making corrections so always start with subtle energy first, then build up. If the horse bucks or speeds up, ask the horse to stop, and then send out calmly and try again. It is much better to keep the scenario calm than to increase pressure and stress for the horse. Using body language and whip cues you will be able to learn to shape the horse effectively.

Happy lunging!

If you are unsure of where you are heading it is always a good idea to connect with a coach who knows the sport you want to prepare for.

We (Lisa and Birgit) are both available for online and in-person lessons.

Lisa Wieben’s passion is empowering women in becoming confident and healthy riders. As an Energy Medicine Practitioner and Clinical Somatics Practitioner she addresses pain, tension, hormones, stress, and the issues that appear as a result. As a Centered Riding Instructor and Irwin Insights Master Level 7 Trainer she works with riders incorporating awareness exercises both on and off the horse. Balance the rider, balance the horse! Book a clinic that incorporates all the modalities! www.somaticrider.com

Inverted horse: One of Birgit’s students lunges Twister, a Quarter horse/Arabian cross gelding owned by Falling Star Ranch. She is using a Vienna rein to encourage the horse to flex down to level and encourage the horse to bend on the circle by using the whip.

As an Irwin Insights Level 6 Master Certified trainer and coach, Birgit Stutz helps riders of all levels and backgrounds advance their horsemanship skills by developing personal and situational awareness, focusing on in-depth understanding of equine behaviour, body language, psychology and biomechanics. Driven by her passion for both equine welfare and performance, Birgit believes that facilitating effective communication between horse and rider is an approach that fulfills our responsibilities to the horse and elicits great results. fallingstarranch.ca.

(See their listings in our Business Services section under TRAINERS) APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 27

John Chapman a.k.a. The Limey Cowboy In 1963 I emigrated from England to Calgary, Alberta at the age of 24. It was a Sunday, the last day of the Calgary Stampede. I had a meeting in the Stampeder Hotel to secure my work… met cowboys…. a wonderful feeling.

I

n 1969 I moved to Spruce Grove, west of Edmonton. Dropped in at a local pub - shocked… here were the same cowboys I met in 1963.

They were with their good friend Chuck Skinner. We all hit it off.

Chuck and I became lifetime cowboy buddies.

They asked if I could ride, I said “yeah, a motorcycle!” They laughed and invited me to Chuck’s place. When I arrived they were moving horses around. Chuck pointed out a Quarter Horse sorrel mare in the pasture and said that’s the one you will ride.

He moved on, and then to this day, I have no idea why and where it came from, but I went to the stable, picked out a halter, put a piece of rope in my back pocket, walked up to the horse talking very low saying her name. She whinnied, ears forward, I’m at her side showing my respect and understanding. Slowly putting the rope around her neck. Now she thinks she is caught. Then I slip the halter on, give her some affection and walk to the stable. Brush her down, slip on a blanket and saddle, cinch it down, clean her hooves, then tighten the cinch so it’s secure and comfortable for both of us. I walked out and here is Chuck and the cowboys astounded. I remember Chuck saying “where and how the hell did you figure that out?” I shrugged my shoulders and said “it’s the way it was, I have no idea.”

As time went by, one day they said “you can’t keep riding in those damn limey clothes, you don’t look right.” So, unknowing to me they had a friend go and buy me western clothes and bring them to Chuck’s place.

They called me and I went over. They sat me in a chair and removed all of my limey clothes and put on the new clothes – boots, jeans, belt, shirt and scarf. Chuck gave me a hat… now I am a cowboy. I didn’t feel odd – it felt right – never was I so happy… finally it is me. They burned my limey clothes in a barrel in front of me and said “welcome home.”

In Spruce Grove time passes by and Chuck and I, with local friends and cowboys, put on the first indoor rodeo in Canada. We have to extend our thanks to the community – it was a huge success. Then we started taking on running rodeos just on the west outskirts of Spruce Grove.

Then back to Calgary where I met my wife, Heather, and decided to move to ranching just southwest of Calgary close to the community of Priddis. We worked two ranches – what an experience. Chuck and Heather and I often visited each other, and one time Chuck and Heather got together without me and talked about my crazy experience. Heather had experienced something similar but totally different. She said to Chuck “John is an old soul” and together they named me the Limey Cowboy.

WHISKEY CREEK RANCH The first place was Whiskey Creek Ranch where we bred and trained trotters. The owner raced them around the area and was quite successful.

I remember he had a stud horse which was acting up. I got along with it but he was a handful. He finally decided to have him cut and when he healed up turned him loose in a pasture close by.

One day I went riding, checking fences, etc. and to make sure our new gelding was okay. He saw us and came galloping over and attacked us;

28 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

mainly my horse who was a Quarter Horse mare. Kicking and screaming I chased him off a couple of times, but finally he hit my horse and she fell on me. I was pinned and didn’t want my mare rolling over my upper body but she finally got up, both of us unhurt – well, minor bruises and shook up. We got out of the pasture and called in the vet. Got the supposed ‘studless’ horse in a stall and found he was proud cut so the vet fixed him up.

Quite an experience but that’s life on a working ranch. The good side is we got married on the ranch.

TIMBER RIDGE RANCH One day I was riding up the road and met the neighbour who owned a huge ranch. Never thought of it as so many acres… but many sections.

A good cowboy friend used to run this ranch but he bought his own land, raised horses and cattle. (Story to come regarding this guy.) Well, I was offered the job to run this ranch and of course I accepted. We lived in a great panabode log home with Fish Creek almost wrapping around it with all the corrals and barns minutes away.

At that time the ranch didn’t have a name but was known as J4 which was his brand – the owner, his wife and 2 daughters. It was a cow calf operation and they bred Missouri Fox Trotters. Wonderful horses. Fish Creek ran through the property and the owner had a beautiful log home across the creek from us.

One day the owner and I were rounding up cows and calves and he said “we have to give this ranch a name.” Well, you just had to look around and see the close hills and wonderful tree lines. I popped up and said “Timber Ridge.” That was it - Timber Ridge with brand J4. So we pushed the herd into the pasture next to where the branding was to take place the next day.

Now the job was splitting up cows and calves. This is where the work starts. The calves are fast and the horses tired. Almost done, when one of the calves starts running. I spin my horse and cut him off okay, except my horse falls, and of course, on my leg. I felt a bad pain, then a numb feeling.

I checked her out and she was fine. Job has to be done, so back in the saddle – we did it! Good night.

Next day… look out… fun! Dip, branding, shots, de-balling (sorry, but that is the way it is). My job this time was putting the calves through the chutes. The last calf went through, I pushed it on to the ramp and it crapped in my lap – not nice.

My buddy Monty, the local farrier, and his lady Lee were on the side.

She was gut laughing at my situation, so like a gentleman I laughed too. I walked up to Lee, thought I should share, so I grabbed her and gave her a big hug. Now she looked just like me – her lap was full and we all cracked up.

A few weeks later I was having pain in my leg and back, so I went to the Cowboy Clinic in Calgary. They took x-rays and it showed my leg was broken when my horse fell on me. Lucky it healed in place.

Working at that ranch was one of the highlights of my life. To relive and explain the life on this ranch would take forever. The hard work, the

excitement, the enjoyment - the total experience – this is a cowboy’s life.

I have a great way to end this wonderful experience on Timber Ridge. You must remember my cowboy buddy, my closest friend Chuck.

We rode together in Spruce Grove west of Edmonton. He called me at the ranch and explained he had a medical problem and would I accept his horse Snort. This is the most respected honour anyone could have. He said when I bring Snort down I will explain my situation. Of course I was shocked, but accepted with total pride and honour to have this guy as a buddy.

So, he did arrive with truck, trailer and Snort, and of course his wife Shirley. While unloading Snort, a voice came up the hillside across the creek. My cowboy buddy who ran the ranch before me was yelling “get your asses in the saddle – I need help.” He had cattle that broke loose.

Naturally we did just that – saddle up and rode up the hill to help him.

That was my last ride with Chuck.

Now a little humour to finish this off. Me and the cowboy buddy above were riding towards Black Diamond. We tied the horses up as there was a pub across the road where we were heading. We are both dressed as usual with chaps, spurs, etc. So, me the limey cowboy, has a strong Northeast England accent and as we crossed the road, my buddy says to me “you look great John – just keep your mouth shut.”

RETIREMENT – AND WE MOVE TO B.C. We built a house outside Nelson where we lived for 13 years and then finally settled in Vernon.

I missed horses and ranching, so much so that I decided to get involved with O’Keefe Ranch and with North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association (NOTRA) also situated at O’Keefe Ranch. I volunteered for both for about 10 years.

At O’Keefe Ranch I worked with horses, and rigged them up for pony rides. All goes well except for this one horse called Buddy. Most people had problems with him – I don’t understand - it’s their understanding and patience which causes horses to react. I had him this one day, walked and talked to him, then got in line for pony rides. First ride was a little off, second ride good. While waiting for the third ride, my wife Heather was on the other side of the hitching rail, tied him up to rail and just stood there. Buddy put his head on my shoulder and fell asleep. He is okay!

Good fun.

NOTRA We all have many emotional situations in our lives, but this one “takes the cake.” The people who started NOTRA and those who still run it are gifts from heaven - I am emotional just starting. There are many ways to do therapy. In this situation I believe horses are #1 and dogs are #2.

I am going to write about the handicapped – they come in all conditions and ages. There is a horse and tack assigned to each person to suit their situation, and the handler must understand and have lots of experience with horses and their natural habits and what’s required in these circumstances for the therapy and safety of the rider as they are all so different.

So, whoever is assigned to you (the handler), first you get the horse and tack assigned, then brush, check and clean hooves, then saddle up and locate your rider.

Some riders are able to be helped into the saddle, others are in wheelchairs. Some in wheelchairs have very little balance. They are issued similar horse and tack except on the saddle, instead of a horn, they install handle bars (from a bicycle). When the rider is in the saddle and secure, I would have them take one hand at a time off the handle bar and

lean forward to rub the horse’s neck. It worked – and also the horses like it!

There is a platform complete with a ramp and hoist, with a walkway to lead the horse and hold it. Someone would push the wheelchair with individual onto the platform, secure them in the hoist harness, lift them out of the chair and lower them onto saddle of the waiting horse, secure, and ready to go.

Then we would lead the horses into the corral and line up. A cowgirl from NOTRA would talk and give instructions to the riders and the handlers. After exercises, demonstrations and lessons, we would go on a trail ride – of course we would be leading the riders. Lady, while writing this I can still see you – it was a pleasure to work with you and your team.

My personal experience… I had this young guy a number of times.

He did not communicate, but unbeknownst to me he was starting to understand what was going on with me and the horse. Who knows what is going on in his mind? He never spoke before. His mom was there for every session and, of course, they had a way to communicate. But, this day amazingly he spoke and said “John, stay out of trouble – I am watching you” and made the sign with eyes and fingers. I gave him a huge hug and we both cried. As we rounded the corner of the corral and walked down the fence line (his mom always sat at the same bench), he yelled to his mom – “mom, this is John.” Well, I thought she was going to collapse. She broke down and cried. I am sure she had never heard him talk from his own mind and heart.

After 59 years, there is so much more to tell. Thanks.

- John the Limey Cowboy

Outback SaddleS & SupplieS

MANUFACTURERS OF BAD DOG RANCH AUSTRALIAN SADDLES & TACK

Better features on our Australian Saddles designed for a Better Ride TIME FOR A NEW SADDLE? Eliminate knee, back and hip pain while gaining comfort, security and a lighter weight saddle.

NEW TACK & SADDLES NOW IN STOCK! Bad Dog Ranch Wool Felt Saddle Pads Custom made to order Canadian made in Kamloops BC www.outbacksaddles.ca 250-267-1161 ~ Kamloops BC E-mail: info@outbacksaddles.ca APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 29

Equine Guelph… helping horses for life Encapsulating Stem Cells for Treating Equines with Osteoarthritis Story by Jackie Bellamy-Zions

T

he next exciting step in regenerative therapies has Dr. Thomas Koch, Ontario Veterinary College, and his team encapsulating stem cells to see if they can enhance the effect of treatment. Horses with osteoarthritis in their joints stand to benefit from a therapy with a slower release time. “When you encapsulate the cells within hydrogel, you can keep the cells in the joint longer, and this may lead to better treatment outcomes,” explains Koch.

In this safety study, the researchers will be comparing the effect of injecting cells alone versus encapsulated cells.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSC) have been shown to alleviate pain in mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the fetlock joint. To date, these cells have been from single donor animals. In human medicine, there is work suggesting that combining cells from multiple donors produces a better product with more predictable functionality.

Equine researchers are comparing stem cells collected from just one donor to cells obtained from many. “In order to have a more standardized product, there may be advantages to pooling cells from multiple donors,” says Koch, who added that a student in his lab, Olivia Lee, recently published a paper on this topic.

In the past year, Koch and his commercial partner, Likarda, LLC (Kansas City) have been optimizing a method for freezing down the encapsulated cells. “Having a frozen product will be much more useful to veterinarians,” says Koch. Stored right at the clinics they would be readily available for use after thawing. Freezing encapsulated cells has been a new and challenging venture with the goal of having a treatment ready to inject as soon as it is needed.

The next step in the project is to inject cells into joints in vivo and then monitor if there are any significant reactions comparing saline to unencapsulated and encapsulated cells.

“This research has been more than 10 years in the works, and we are very grateful for the support from Equine Guelph and its partners to allow us to pursue these studies,” says Koch. “We are getting to the point where we will be working with live horses; getting closer and closer to clinical application of these technologies, which is very exciting.”

New 12-week Courses start May 9 (Earlybird deadline April 8) Mgmt of the Equine Environment Equine Behaviour Equine Nutrition Equine Exercise Physiology Equine Welfare Equine Functional Anatomy Equine Business Finance & Risk Management

2022 Short Online Courses Offered Sept 19-30: The Senior Horse Oct 3-14: Horse Care & Welfare Oct 17-28: Sickness Prevention in Horses Nov 7-14: Equine First Aid Nov 21-28: Fire & Emergency Preparedness Dec 5-16 Horse Behaviour & Safety Winter 2023: Gut Health & Colic Prevention TBA (3 days): Large Animal Rescue Workshop (hands on)

Dr. Koch examines a horse's fetlock

EquiMania!... Youth Education presented by Equine Guelph

E

quiMania! Online makes learning fun with a series of online interactive activities. The EquiMania! experience inspires youth to pursue a career in the equine industry; educates youth on the care and welfare of horses; allows rural and urban youth to interact with and investigate the world of horses… and offers fun learning for the whole family.

Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) has been a supporting Equine Guelph for close to two decades in the development of programs to help youth and their families practice safety every day on horse farms through interactive EquiMania! activities and courses on the TheHorsePortal.ca.

Adopting the Stop Think Act initiative, serious accidents can be prevented by taking the time to think about the possible dangers and to prepare for them. Youth receive a Safety Pledge Certificate after learning safety practices from drawings illustrating smart protective gear choices to use while riding, how to be safe around farm equipment and when handling horses.

Kids can be Danger Detectives by checking out many important resources and free activities at EquiMania! Online (TheHorsePortal.ca/EquiMania) such as: helmet fitting information, horse farm safety checklists, fire safety checklists and more.

For those ready to learn even more about the nature of horses, TheHorsePortal.ca offers an on-demand online course for only $25 – Horse Behaviour & Safety – recommended for youth ages 13-17.

Equine Guelph is the horse owners' and care givers' Centre at the University of Guelph in Canada. It is a unique partnership dedicated to the health and well-being of horses, supported and overseen by equine industry groups. Equine Guelph is the epicentre for academia, industry and government - for the good of the equine industry as a whole. For further information, visit equineguelph.ca.

30 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Most farmers in the area I came from in Saskatchewan, especially those that raised cattle, used a sled-like device usually called a “STONE BOAT.”

STONE “BOAT”

T

hey were constructed out of wood and consisted of two shallow runners with planks nailed across the top of the runners. At the front of the “stone boat” there was a reinforced piece (sometimes made of metal) where a centre tow ring was attached so the “single tree” harness from the horse could be attached so the horse or small tractor could pull it.

Once seasoned by the minus 40-degree weather of a good old Saskatchewan winter, it was surprising how easily they would slide once the friction was broken between the frozen ground and the runner. They were a curious looking device by today’s standards, but the non-existing sideboards made these sleds much easier to load and remove the animal manure after barn cleaning or to slide a large steel drum on and off. The steel drums were sometimes used to haul water from the dugout either for household water or to bring water to other animals in the barns. On occasion I used the stone boat to haul firewood to the house basement for the heating furnace or to the cook stove wood box in the kitchen.

I can remember filling 45-gallon drums with water from a dugout using a pail and a rope after chopping a hole in the ice. The holes were a real chore to keep open as the minus 40-degree weather froze the ice to a thickness of 2 feet in many cases.

Some regions of Saskatchewan have annual spring crops of “stones” which rise to the surface after the winter frost heaves, which brings them to the surface. In the spring many farmers hitched up the “stone boats” to either their horse or small tractor and the children were offered “free” rides on the stone boats in the field. There was a slight catch to the “free rides” however, as the riders were required to pick any surface stones and place

them on the “stone boat” for removal from the farmer’s field.

Everything is mechanized on most farms today and these devices are long gone as far as I know. Thanks to Sally Scales for bringing this bit of trivia back to mind. I will wager there are many other people from the prairies living here that also remember the “stone boat” as well as many other homemade tools used to make life a bit easier.

This brief explanation might raise the question, “If the stone boat was used to haul manure, water drums and the occasional load of poplar, why were these devices called a “stone boat?” Here’s why.

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 31

TOP DOG!

A DIVISION OF CENTURION SUPPLY

Supplying Your Pets with NEW and Unique Products! https://finnandfletcher.com

The Dangers of Marijuana and Dogs (Courtesy of spca.bc.ca)

S

pring is almost here and many of us are taking our four-legged friends to neighbourhood parks more often. An increasing concern for pet guardians heading outdoors with their pets is the dangers of marijuana butts left on sidewalks and in dog parks.

After her 6-year-old cocker spaniel Joey became sick multiple times after picking up and eating joint butts off the ground, Kelownaarea resident Shelley Wood says she keeps a vigilant watch on her pet when out in public spaces.

“On two occasions he must have ingested more than the butt of a joint because he had quite a severe reaction,” she says, “vomiting, losing control of his legs, stumbling, and having what seemed like tiny involuntary seizures.”

Karen Beckmann’s chocolate Labrador puppy, Daisy, had her first incident with marijuana at 10 weeks old. She rushed her little one to the vet where they confirmed the poisoning with a urine test.

“My husband thought she was having a stroke, she was wobbling, her eyes were red and could not walk straight,” she says.

Wood says it’s important for pet guardians to be aware that the smell of marijuana butts can be irresistible to some dogs and if your dog behaves strangely at home, they may have swallowed one on their daily walk.

The effects of pot on your dog If your dog is exposed to marijuana – by ingesting it or inhaling secondhand smoke – they may display these symptoms: • Lethargy • Loss of balance • Whining • Breathing problems • Agitated behaviour • Excessive drooling • Vomiting • Dilated pupils or glassed over eyes

• Abnormal heart rhythm • Tremors • Body temperature too high or low • Seizures • Coma • Urinary incontinence • Changes in blood pressure

Signs of possible toxicity show up anywhere between 5 minutes to 12 hours after exposure. Depending on the amount of marijuana the dog has been exposed to, symptoms of poisoning can last from 30 minutes to multiple days.

Size plays a major role in how exposure to marijuana affects your dog, with smaller dogs being at greatest risk because of their faster metabolism.

Tip of the Month - “If I’d Only known!”

(Courtesy of Harmony Farm Kennel & Lamb) Gosh, they’re soooo cute as pups... now, as big dogs, I hear many folks surprised (and frustrated) at the behaviours of their adorable pups!

I

deally, research a dog’s breeding before you bring it home, but... now what? One idea is simulate your dog’s innate ‘talents,’ while shaping better behaviours. Bored dogs can become frustrated, anxious dogs with disrespectful, destructive patterns.

For example Dachshunds, Jack Russells and Terrier types, are bred to hunt (tenaciously) vermin and birds, with wilful confidence!

They dig, burrow and love anything underground (including your arena, gardens or lawn), so give them tunnels and tubes with hide/ seek hunt challenges! Bull breeds love people (not always dogs!) and need mental stimulation to keep/stay connected. German Shepherds, Dobermans and Rottweilers are smart, loyal, bold and serious working dogs. They can be fearlessly protective (and possessive). Instead of just walking forward, choose different patterns, directional changes, speed and obstacle challenges. Retrievers are mouthy water lovers give them different scents to fetch, to hold and swim for. Those brilliant Collies are born to herd by stalking, heeling and/or nipping. They 32 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

need provocative work with tasks, puzzles, tricks and obstacles (other than children, bicycles or tires!).

Huskies are bred to run and pull!

Do you have a sled or cart? Don’t be surprised when they pull like trains and often have no recall!

Generally, dogs are smarter than we give them credit for and need your leadership! When you give them mental exercise with intellectual challenges, games and simulations, your dogs will be more satisfied, content and less challenging overall!

•••••• Patricia Skinner-Porter is the owner/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. Here she shares her vast array of experience with a beneficial monthly tip for you and your pooch to enjoy!

(See her listing under Pet Central)

TOP DOG!

Supplying Your Pets with NEW and Unique Products! https://finnandfletcher.com

A DIVISION OF CENTURION SUPPLY

Pet Central EVERYTHING PETS (Princeton BC) 250-295-7381 Quality Foods & Supplies for all your Pets! See us on Facebook. 10/22 HARMONY FARM KENNEL AND LAMB.COM, Monte Lake BC, 250-375-2528.

“Custom Care” boarding welcomes ALL dogs! 12/22

Do you offer a dog service or training business? Sell pet feeds and supplies? You can advertise here! Prices start at only $250 per year (11 issues).Call 1-866-546-9922 or e-mail nancyroman@saddleup.ca Back in 2019 a puppy called Bear nearly died from a marijuana overdose.

He’s now healthy and thriving.

Canine Capers

What risks does marijuana ingestion bring?

The risk of marijuana poisoning in dogs ranges from moderate to severe. Marijuana can be lethal for dogs when a large amount has been ingested. Reports show that dogs have a larger number of cannabinoid receptors in their brain compared to humans and therefore may be more sensitive to the toxic effects of THC than humans.

SPONSORED BY Your one-stoP Pet shoP Farm, Fencing & Horse Supplies Pet and Livestock Feeds 604-894-6740 Pemberton BC

If your dog has been exposed to marijuana, call your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control immediately.

TOP DOG! OF THE MONTH Hi, this is Sadie and she is a Shorkey that loves to sing and is not afraid to put big dogs in their place and she is very small.

- Maddie, Sparwood BC

Send us a photo of your favourite pooch!

Tell us the dog’s name, breed, and up to 50 words about him/her. We will print your first name (or initials) and your city/province.

E-mail to nancyroman@saddleup.ca and put in subject line: TOP DOG OF THE MONTH. Photos will be printed on a first come first serve basis.

5/19 5/22

For more information on any of these events go to canuckdogs.com unless another website is provided

DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS, EVENTS MAY BE CANCELLED - CALL AHEAD

MARCH

31-Apr 3 FIELD DOG TESTS & TRIALS & WATER TESTS for Pointers, Nanoose Bay BC

APRIL

1-3 1-3 3 8-10 9-10 9-10 15-17 16 16 16-17 16-17 17 22-24 22-24 23-24 23-24 29-May 1 29-May 1 30 30-May 1

CKC AGILITY TRIALS, Kelowna BC AAC AGILITY TRIALS, Pitt Meadows BC CANINE GOOD NEIGHBOUR TEST for all dogs, Aldergrove BC AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Pitt Meadows BC INDOOR TRIAL, Kelowna BC, www.codac.ca CKC OBEDIENCE & RALLY TRIALS, Abbotsford BC AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC CARO RALLY OBEDIENCE TRIAL, Kelowna BC CKC URBAN TRACKING TEST, Delta/Surrey BC CKC OBEDIENCE & RALLY TRIALS, Saanich BC CKC SCENT DETECTION TRIALS, Campbell River BC CKC URBAN TRACKING TEST, Langley BC FIELD DOG TESTS & TRIAL for Pointing breeds, Princeton BC DOG O POGO AAC TRIAL, Lumby BC, www.dogopogoclub.wixsite.com CKC HUNT TESTS for Retrievers, Deroche BC CKC URBAN TRACKING TEST, Courtenay BC AAC AGILITY TRIAL, Abbotsford BC CKC RETRIEVER FIELD TRIAL, Surrey BC CANINE GOOD NEIGHBOUR TEST for all dogs, Delta BC CKC OBEDIENCE & RALLY TRIALS, Winfield BC

Do you have a WORKING DOG event coming up?

Let us know! Call 1-866-546-9922 or email nancyroman@saddleup.ca

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 33

u o Y e r A at Kids... Wh Your Horse? th Doing Wuri turn to tell us It 's y o out YO U ! ab

GI DD Y UP

pony Spi ce. She My nam e is Kaylee and this is my Welsh s tog eth er and is 19 years old. We love going on trail ride spring.

I look forward to doing horse shows in the Kaylee, age 6, Enderby BC -

t u o b a l l a It's the kids!

This Could Be You!!

My nam e is Sinclare and this is my horse Karakter. She is 22 and an Arabian . We have been ridi ng tog eth er since I was 3 1/2 years old. We love to play gam es like Keyhole and Barrel Racing.

Sinclare, age 5, Fort Saskatchewan AB

Send in ONE photo with a caption (no more than 40 words). Include your first name, age, city/province. Photos will be printed on a space availability basis.

Email to nancyroman@saddleup.ca with the subject line “KIDS” 34 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

Horse Council BC - Notes from the Office 2022 IS A BC GAMES YEAR!

BC Summer Games, July 21 to 24 2022 The 2022 BC Summer Games in Prince George will be here before you know it!

Just a reminder to Equestrian Athletes the deadline to declare for the 2022 BC Summer Games is May 31. If you declared for the cancelled 2020 Games in Maple Ridge and wish to bring your declaration forward for the 2022 BC Summer Games Equestrian Team, please contact competition@hcbc.ca and confirm your intent to be considered for the 2022 Team.

For more info on how you can be a part of the BC Summer Games Equestrian Team for the 2022 Games in Prince George, please visit https://hcbc.ca/competitions/bc-summer-games/ Not quite ready for the 2022 Games?

Start preparing for future Games now, contact Sandy at competition@hcbc.ca to be included on the Equestrian Team prospects list and receive information on Summer Games Athlete Development programs. ~ Maple Ridge 2024 BC Summer Games, July 18–21, 2024 ~ Kelowna 2026 BC Summer Games, July 23–26, 2026 GAME READY ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT CAMP - ARE YOU GAME READY PRINCE GEORGE? The Game Ready program is available to Equestrian Athletes between the ages of 11 to 17 that are interested in competing in either the upcoming 2022 BC Summer Games in Prince George or young equestrians who have their sights set on competing at a future Games.

HCBC is excited to announce dates have been confirmed for our Prince George Summer Games #Game Ready Athlete Development Camp.

HCBC will be hosting a Game Ready Camp May 13-15 at the Prince George Agriplex (the home of the Equestrian Competition for the 2022 BC Summer Games). #Gameready Development Camp in Maple Ridge

Register now for 3 days of expert discipline specific instruction from: ~ 2022 BC Summer Games Dressage Judge, Burgi Rommel ~ Game Ready Jumper Coach, Andrea Strain ~ BC Summer Games Provincial Advisor for Equestrian and High Performance 1 Coach for Eventing, Lynda Ramsay ~ Vaulting TBA ~ Para Dressage TBA The program will consist of one 3-day in person camp including: • group sessions on topics such as: what to expect at the Summer Games, proper turnout for both horse and rider, and preparing yourself mentally for competition • two days of invaluable discipline specific instruction from expert clinicians Camp registrants will also receive exclusive camp swag and invitations to informative and educational webinars throughout the year.

All of this for an affordable $75.00!

Camps also count as a BC Summer Games qualifying event!

Register now: https://hcbc.online/EventReg?State=Ticket&Even tAlias=10190. Stay tuned for announcements on more dates and locations of #GameReady Camps coming up! For more info on the Game Ready program please contact competition@hcbc.ca 2022 55+ GAMES Registration for the 55+ Games in Victoria September 13-17 will open March 1, 2022. For a full explanation on what you need to do to register for the Games, please visit https://55plusbcgames.org/registration/. Information is also be available on the HCBC website at: hcbc.ca/competitions/55-bc-games/.

Equestrian competition at the games will be held at the Saanich Fair Grounds (1528 Stellys Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 1S8) The 2022 Equestrian Competition will consist of: ~ Arena Driving Trials: Training Level 1 and Preliminary Level 2 ~ Dressage: EC Tests, Training Level, First Level and Second Level ~ Western Dressage: HCBC Tests, Walk Jog, Training Level and First Level ~ Working Equitation: Level 1 Introductory, Level 2 Novice A and Level 3 Novice B ~ Working Hunter: 2’3” Low Working Hunter, 2’3” Working Hunter Over Fences, 2’3” Hunter Derby with 2’6” options and 2’3” Handy Hunter.

Horse Council BC • How to Reach Us Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Address: 27336 Fraser Highway, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 604-856-4304 or Toll Free 1-800-345-8055 • Fax: 604-856-4302 • www.hcbc.ca

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 35

Equestrian Canada Equestre, equestrian.ca Canada Second in Nations’ Cup in Wellington, Florida Canadian Olympian Eric Lamaze makes Debut as Chef d’Equipe (Jennifer Ward / Starting Gate Communications for Equestrian Canada) The Canadian Show Jumping Team finished second in the $150,000 Nations’ Cup, presented by Premier Equestrian, held on March 5, during the CSIO4* Winter Equestrian Festival Week 8 in Wellington, FL. Competing under the guidance of 2008 Olympic champion Eric Lamaze in his new role as chef d’equipe, Erynn Ballard, Tiffany Foster, Amy Millar, and Beth Underhill took on 10 other nations in a battle for team honour.

At the end of the first round, Canada, with the advantage of drawing last in the order, sat at the top of the leaderboard after Canadian Olympians Foster, Underhill, and Millar all delivered clear rounds. Ireland was the only other country with a score of zero, followed by Great Britain, Australia, and Mexico with four faults apiece. Belgium and the United States had eight faults while Argentina was on 10 faults. As only the top eight teams moved on to the second round, Israel, Brazil, and Venezuela failed to advance.

“It’s all about the power of the team and the spirit of the riders,”

Lamaze commented. “I want to form a team where they all help each other, and they all work together. In the short time I’ve been in the position, I’m already feeling this. It’s very remarkable. There’s some buzz. We are on to something good!”

Dedicated and Passionate Cynthia Crook wins Combined Driving Achievement Award Photos by Kevin Flynn A long-time competitor, coach, trainer and volunteer is recognized for her contributions to driving. It all started in rural Alberta when a 10-year-old Cynthia Crook stole her brothers’ horse, braided up a bailer twine harness from photos, hooked the mare up to an old stone boat and away they went! Fast forward to today and the long-time competitor, coach, trainer, and volunteer is the Combined Driving Achievement Award winner for 2021.

The Award Program recognizes drivers at all levels that have consistently performed to a high standard at Equestrian Canada (EC), or Provincial and Territorial Sport Organization (PTSO) recognized combined driving events.

“I’m very excited to receive this award, I encourage all of those interested in driving to be a part of this great program,” said Crook who hails from Parkland County, just outside Edmonton, Alberta. “Remember, ‘small medium and large, we drive them all!’ Work hard to practice dressage, as it is the roots to good cones and amazing marathon. I love the challenge of it all.”

Crook’s part-bred Connemara gelding ‘Solaz’ was her first partner in combined driving. The duo competed in many events together winning their first training level event and then jumped to preliminary.

“We did driving trials around Alberta, the 70 Mile House in British Columbia, competed in Spruce Meadows in the Battle of the Breeds, travelled with six rigs and seven horses from Alberta to compete in the Manitoba Birds Hill event, Shady Oaks, Clay Station in California and the Inavale show in Oregon – winning many prizes along the way,” explained Crook.

Then two weeks prior to his ninth birthday, Solaz unexpectedly passed away due to a brain aneurism in a very scary event. Heartbroken, Crook almost gave up driving. She looked out into the field and turned to Solaz’s half-sister, Kestrel, a Warmblood and Welsh Cob cross. While she waited on Kestrel, Crook switched her focus to driving pairs. After she tried out two different ponies that did not seem interested in competing, she purchased a pair of Welsh ponies - Brikka and Bailey. While Crook admits

to having learned an extensive amount while driving pairs, was happy to return to driving with Kestrel this year. “We have started off on an amazing path,” said Crook, “with great training and winning lots of ribbons!”

One of the greatest things she loves about driving is doing the sport with her husband. “We walk the cones together, then we walk the marathon obstacles, and make plans how to drive it all,” said Crook. “We laugh, stay on course and he reminds me he is a unionized navigator, telling me where to go – we have fun together!”

“I am very happy to hear that Cynthia has achieved this award.” said Patty Carley, Chair of EC’s Driving Committee. “She is a consummate horsewoman who has been an outstanding competitor, mentor, organizer, trainer of talented horses, and supporter of driving in Alberta for decades.”

36 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

(l to r) Erynn Ballard, Amy Millar, chef d’equipe Eric Lamaze, Tiffany Foster and Beth Underhill. Photo Credit: Starting Gate Communications.

< Cynthia and her husband Byron with Solaz <

Cynthia and Kestrel competing in a water obstacle

Vintage Riders Equestrian Club FOR THE LOVE OF HORSES By Karen Gallagher

S

pring is sproinging, the croci are popping, and frogs are croaking in the pond. There is horse hair in every crevice! With the promise of warmer weather and Covid gradually receding, we’re all looking forward to more riding and more socializing.

In spite of the challenges and restrictions we have all dealt with for the past 2 years, Vintage Riders Equestrian Club continues to be a vibrant and enthusiastic group. Approaching our 20th anniversary, we persist in attracting outstanding, optimistic equestrians who are very focused on enjoying the equine partnership. Our membership is steadily growing and many members are actively involved in the activities of our club. Each year we present an award to our Most Inspirational Member. Last year’s recipient, Norma Wilson, presented the trophy to this year’s honoree, Elena Kau. Our first clinic of the season – a Pole Clinic with Jessie Blackmon – was a huge success. It was a full day, with Jessie working from morning set-up till take-down after the last class finished at 6:30! With everything from a team of Icies to a charming mule, it was lively, instructive and entertaining. The whole illuminating process will be repeated March 20.

Our February General Meeting included a virtual visit from Sarah Allison of Horse Council BC. Sarah gave us a very informative talk about the various resources that Horse Council has available to members. Did you know they have a Trails Database that covers trails throughout the province? And a GPS and GoPro loans program? We are all grateful for the Animal Disaster Relief Fund that helped during our recent disasters. Check out everything your HCBC has to offer.

We’re very excited to have Marta Mackintosh coming back in April for our annual Games Night – always a ton of fun!

We’re going to give you more time to figure this one out.

Congratulations (so far) to: John Isley, Barrhead AB From the February issue It was a Wine press or Cider press; used for getting the juices and some pulp out, for making spirits.

Congratulations also to: Hans Leuenberger, Houston BC

Vintage Riders Equestrian Club …for the love of horses! We are a gathering of horse enthusiasts within the Fraser Valley. Anyone over the age of 21 is welcome. We meet every 3rd Tuesday in Fort Langley BC to enjoy fellowship and a speaker and host a variety of clinics according to PHO. Find us on Facebook at Vintage Riders Equestrian Club – public, email: vintageriders@shaw.ca 2022 Upcoming Events: Larry Brinker – Intro to Long-lining and Driving Trailering Clinic Caeli Cavanagh – Lessons in Liberty Darcy Henkel – Working Equitation Debbie Hughes – Mountain Trail Seven Half Diamond Ranch

Good luck!

READERS – What’s your guess?

Discuss this item with your friends and send your guess to usedandunique2018@gmail.com

Norma Wilson presenting to Elena Kau

It’s shedding season!

Do include your city and province please.

Saddle Up will print names (and location) of those with the correct answer in a future issue.

GOOD LUCK! If you or your company would like to sponsor this monthly brain teaser, do call 1-866-546-9922 or email nancyroman@ saddleup.ca for details.

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 37

Vernon District Riding Club (VDRC) News By Holly Baxter

T

he VDRC is now entering its 67th year of serving the horse community at its location on Aberdeen Road in Coldstream BC. The facilities include 3 outdoor sand arenas, a round pen and 52 box stalls, 8 covered pens and 16 open pens. The clubhouse has a full kitchen, bathroom facilities and a huge wrap-around deck for viewing.

VDRC is non-boarding and open from April to October.

With purchase of a membership, you can enjoy these beautifully maintained facilities for seven months. Our facility is also available for rentals for your next equestrian event. We are grateful to our Groundskeeper Jean Guy who keeps the club looking like a park.

Whether you are a recreational rider, interested in competition, or anything in-between, there is camaraderie, fun and opportunities to get involved. We have a terrific team of instructors for the discipline you are interested in. The Vernon Pony Club is based out of our location as well.

Our kick-off event is a work party on Sunday, April 3rd. Pony Club begins April 20th and Crony Club (for older riders) begins on April 17th.

There is a welcome BBQ planned for Saturday May 14th. C’mon out and have some fun! COME RIDE WITH US! Please visit our VDRC Facebook page or go to our website for more details. Check out What’s Happening in Saddle Up for current monthly updates.

Crony Club

Our hunter/jumper ring

Canadian Cowboy Challenge By Hans Kollewyn Rider finishing an obstacle

Socializing at end of day

38 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

I

hope all went well for you all over the winter. For those who have access to indoor arenas, it is possible to condition our horses or continue on with lessons. Now that spring is here it is possible to ride outside in more reasonable weather conditions.

The CCC board has been meeting monthly after our AGM in January.

In our meetings we de-briefed the past season, update our rules and regulations as needed and start preparing for the 2022 season. Preparing consists of contacting previous hosts and contacting those who have shown an interest in becoming a CCC Host.

At this point of time I would like to recognize all the board members for all their hard work and dedication that makes a strong association and survived the past two uncharacteristic years.

I will now introduce the CCC president, Al Bignal, who has a message from the CCC executive.

Al wrote: “Well here it is April already and it is looking like this will be our best year for Challenges. The past two years have been hard ones. The 2020 season was a total cancellation due to all the Covid restrictions. Then followed the 2021 season in which we only had 8 Challenges between AB and Sask.

However, we did manage to produce a year-end banquet to award our members with buckets and prizes. So the year ended on a positive note at least. With a couple of new Hosts, as I mentioned earlier, we will be having close to a full 2022 season. Hoping all goes well this year as our members are very excited about the upcoming season. Thank you and ride safe.”

- Al Bigna, President of the Canadian Cowboy Challenge Association

BC Interior Morgan Horse Club By Nancy Roman

W

here have we been? We’ve been laying low and having the odd zoom meeting to keep in touch. Covid sure shut us down for a couple of years, but WE ARE BAAAACK!!! And rarin’ to go! Some of us anyway!

New this year, to entice those who own Morgan horses (or partbred Morgans); or even just enjoy them… and want to meet some other Morgan lovers… we are offering a 50% discount on our membership rates just for 2022! See our club Facebook page for more info or to contact.

So far we have planned… our Tack Sale on April 2nd at the Armstrong Curling Rink, 10 am to 2 pm, following the Interior Health regulations. Mark your calendars for the Pot O Gold Open Show on Saturday June 4th at the fairgrounds in Armstrong. We’ve scaled the show back a bit and are making it more of a FUN day! More info next month or you can contact me at 250-546-9922, email nancyroman@ telus.net. We have tentatively booked our Fall Poker Ride for Sunday, September 25th at Timber Ridge Trails in Lumby. And we have been discussing holding some clinics too… stay tuned!

Canadian Registry of the Tennessee Walking Horse By Windi Scott

YOUTH PROGRAM The CRTWH will be introducing their new Youth Program this year in conjunction with their 40th Anniversary. Youth have always been an important focus for the registry in events past, but directors have decided that this is the year to build a program specifically designed to encourage and educate young people about our breed.

Some of the mandates of the program which may include (but not be limited to) are: *A specific set of goals of learning and achievement resulting in awards. This would include tasks that would have to be demonstrated by video, starting with the basic skills and progressing into more advanced handling and riding disciplines.

*A public demonstration at a pre-determined event to showcase skills learned in a particular level. *A written or oral essay presentation about the Canadian Tennessee Walking Horse. *Special awards to youth who share their learning and encourage others. *Funds or subsidies to help an exemplary youth attend a learning event such as a clinic (or possibly a scholarship).

Canadian Walking Horse owners are encouraged to mentor youth in their journey with the breed. If there are folks who would like to contribute to the growing of this program, or know of youth who would like to take part, contact Director Windi Scott at 780-786-2115 in Alberta.

Chilliwack Riding Club By Riesa Kyne

W

elcome back to the Chilliwack Riding Club! We’re so looking forward to our 2022 riding season. We’ve got some great event dates booked and will be adding more as the year progresses.

We continue to host Open Ride at Heritage Park on most Tuesday evenings from 7-8 pm. The cost is $5/members or $10/non-members and you must have current HCBC insurance coverage. Please ensure to check the website for available dates.

We hosted our first Gymkhana of the season on February 27th and had a great turnout with 42 entries. Congratulations to our High Point winners of the day:

NOVICE: Bruce Martin SENIOR: Megan Mckay We’ll continue with Gymkhanas each month through to the summer. So check the website, get signed up, get your volunteer times in, and start working towards year-end awards!

See you all out there!

LEADLINE: Chase McPherson PEEWEE: Kinsley Lewis JUNIOR: (tied) Emerson Vanleeuwen and Hannah Lewis INTERMEDIATE: Layla Thomson APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 39

The Back Country Horsemen of BC Summer Fun, Fundraising and a BC Trails Days project CVI Chapter thinks outside the box and makes the most of COVID Restrictions By Lynn deVeries, Central Vancouver Island Chapter Chair

W

ith 2021 starting out with more COVID pandemic restrictions, the Central Vancouver Island (CVI) chapter of BCHBC pulled together to come up with three goals for 2021. All goals were compliant with the Provincial Health Orders while continuing to enable us to: ~ host events and have fun ~ fundraise and, ~ maintain and improve our Spruston Recreation Site in south west Nanaimo

foot area trail map on the other.

In early 2021, the kiosk collapsed. This gave us a great opportunity to build a new structure and relocate it to a more convenient location.

The Outdoor Recreation Council was offering a $500 grant towards trail or infrastructure improvements. As this kiosk displays the large colour trail map and lands in this vast area, including the Trans Canada Trail, CVI applied for and received these grant funds. The Trails Day kickoff coincided with our geo-cache activities and the installation of the new sign. This allowed all the public recreational users to enjoy the map information, now safely displayed on our new kiosk.

Goal #1 —Host an event To ensure social distance, and still host a fun trail ride event, we decided on a ‘mock geo-cache’ with a Back Country Horsemen theme.

CVI owns an extensive geo-referenced PDF, encompassing approximately 25-square-miles of land and trails. In order to place geocache boxes without a geo-cache app, we decided to screen clip the location using the Avenza mapping app, along with photographs of the geo-cache boxes as to where they were hidden. (www.avenzamaps. com) An idea was put forward to have ‘Leave No Trace’ as a Treasure Hunt clue. Each box would contain one letter of ‘Leave No Trace,’ totalling 12 boxes. To allow riders to find the geo-caches with their riding partners during times that were convenient for them, the event ran for the entire months of June and July. Selfies of the box and letters were to be submitted. Prizes for the CVI-only event were drawn in August.

The Treasure Hunt event was free for our members to participate in. It was a huge success, with 50 participants (plus the event organizers) over the two months.

Goal #2—Fundraise Our Chapter Treasurer, Joanne Schneider, registered CVI at the local Return-It Depot. Members dropped off bottles in clear bags with a label and the money was transferred to our account. Our membership came through and we raised just over $800! These funds paid for the costs associated with running our Treasure Hunt event.

Goal #3 – Continue to maintain the Spruston Rec Site to a high standard CVI operates and maintains the large Spruston Rec Site on Vancouver Island. One of the key infrastructures we have is a kiosk that holds our organization’s name and branding on one side and our 4 X 8

Graham Payne and Jim Fiddick make the finishing touches to the map side of the new sign at Spruston.

The new sign with concrete base, funded by ORC’s grant money. CVI chapter members (back row) Jim Fiddick, Trail Coordinator; Graham Payne, Work Bee Coordinator; (front row) Valerie Bresnahan, ViceChair; Lynn deVries, Chair.

BC Trails Days - Outdoor Recreation Council of BC The outdoors has proven to be an invaluable resource to British Columbians during the pandemic.

To help give back to the trails and outdoor spaces that we love, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) launched the inaugural BC Trails Day on Saturday, June 5, 2021.

Over 30 events were hosted by local trail groups across BC that not only celebrated, but gave back to trails through trail maintenance, litter pick up, outreach, education and more. The next BC Trails Day celebration is June 4, 2022. Visit orcbc.ca/bctrailsday/ to sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date with future events and more on the public outdoor recreation sector in BC.

Back Country Horsemen of BC – serving BC trail riding enthusiasts since 1989!

Check out our beautiful website at bchorsemen.org / Questions? Contact info@bchorsemen.org

40 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

JOIN US FOR RENDEZ VOUS 2022!

June 24-26, 2022 in Prince George BCHBC members and non-members are all welcome!

More info next month!

Clubs & Associations Join the Canadian Quarter Horse Association Membership is FREE!

www.AlbertaDonkeyandMule.ca

members from across Canada and the US 5/22

ARMSTRONG ENDERBY RIDING CLUB Schooling Shows (Eng/West/Games), Armstrong Fairgrounds, April to Sept. www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca 10/22

The CQHA is the Canadian affiliate of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), and representative of the largest breed population within the Canadian herd. Visit us at www.cqha.ca.

12/22

31 Years of Celebrating Long Ears

NOW YOU DO HAVE A CHOICE. CRHRA is a voice for the Recreational Rider.

Our low cost membership includes $5 Million and $30,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment.

Check out our web site for more information www.crhra.ca 4/22

11/22

BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETY, Pres: Ellen Hockley 250-572-7516, Pleasure, Combined, Recreation from Minis to Drafts, www.bccarriagedriving.com 6/22

BC Equine Arena 2 Trail Association

Working with obstacles to overcome obstacles Building confidence, patience, respect and trust in your equine partnership! bcearena2trail.com facebook.com/BCEA2T 4/22

2/23

CANADIAN THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATION CanTRA promotes the benefits of therapeutic riding across Canada through awareness, education, and setting standards for therapeutic riding instructor certification, centre accreditation, hippotherapy, and equine-facilitated wellness.

Contact: ctra@golden.net • Website: www.cantra.ca

BC INTERIOR ARABIAN HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Wally Goertz 250-546-6004 11/22 asmarawg@telus.net, clinics, Recreational riding programs, Awards/Social Activ.

BC INTERIOR MORGAN HORSE CLUB see our FB page. Pres: Michelle Kozyn e-mail: akylles3_kozyn@hotmail.com, Trail Rides, Pot O Gold Show, Poker Ride 5/22 BC PAINT HORSE CLUB www.bcphc.com, Open Show & Competition Program, award sponsorships for local clubs, youth scholarship. cathyglover@telus.net 3/23

FRASER VALLEY’S OWN ‘GRASSROOTS’ CLUB dedicated to promoting the sport of cutting to enthusiasts of all levels See us on acebook & Instagram

Equestrian Canada (EC) is the national governing body for equestrian sport and industry in Canada, with a mandate to represent, promote and advance all equine and equestrian interests.

6/22

10/18 2/23

Want to enjoy miles of beautiful new trails with your equine partner in BC? Try Endurance Riding!

We welcome all levels of riders and all breeds of equines.

Info on clinics and events at www.erabc.com

12/22 6/16

or e-mail: bcrcha@gmail.com

Team Cattle Penning is a race against the clock to have 3 riders pen 3 of 30 numbered head of cattle. Each rider is rated to their current abilities and the three riders on a team make up the maximum allowed number for the division they are riding. Example: a 10 Class is made of a 4-rated rider and two 3-rated riders. The herd is on one end of the arena and the foul line is usually 1/3. DON’T BLOW OUT!! YEE HAW!! Visit our website at: bctcpa.ca

A charitable equine organization funding veterinary colleges and students, and other worthwhile equine causes.

DONATIONS WELCOME 3/23

www.bcrcha.com

CHILLIWACK RIDING CLUB, Drill Team, Horse Shows (Heritage Qualifiers), Gymkhana, Trail Rides, Clinics, Open Ride, Socials, www.crchorse.ca 12 /22

1-866-282-8395 | inquiries@equestrian.ca | www.equestrian.ca

BC QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.bcqha.com Contact Carolyn Farris, email cfarris@telus.net 8/22

7/22

PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE HELPING HORSES

Bob Watson, President 403-378-4323 cbwatson@cciwireless.ca www.equinefoundationofcanada.com

4/22

11/22

BC WELSH PONY & COB ASSOC. (see Facebook) Pres: Rosanne 604-302-7650, bcwelsh@shaw.ca. Breed promotion program throughout the province. 4/22 BOUCHIE LAKE GYMKHANA CLUB (Quesnel BC). May to September. All info on our Facebook Page: B LAKE Gymkhana CLUB. Tel: 250-249-9667 11/22 BOUNDARY HORSE ASSOCIATION (Grand Forks BC), Offering shows, gymkhanas, clinics & more. See us on Facebook, 250-443-3191, kmespenhain@telus.net 4/22

Canadian Cowboy Challenge 12/22

A SPORT for the whole Family!

Seven Divisions to accommodate all!

For more info please call 403-828-2044 or visit www.canadiancowboychallenge.com

D E A D LI N E

10/22

INTERIOR CUTTING HORSE ASSOCIATION www.ichacutting.com New cutters always welcome. Lee Poncelet 250-938-2034 9/22

5th of each month APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 41

Clubs & Associations LANGLEY RIDERS SOCIETY, www.langleyriders.com. English/Western, Games, Jumping, Drill Team, Rodeo. 604-530-5981 11/22

PRINCETON RIDING CLUB, Pres: Stephanie Antonick, santonick@hotmail.com See us on Facebook. Offering shows, clinics and more! 2/23

LOWER MAINLAND QUARTER HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Tamara Jameson, tamarajameson@hotmail.com, http://bcqha.com/index.php/LMQHA 12/22

RUSTY SPURS 4-H HORSE CLUB (Abbotsford BC) Open to Youth 6-19, Rustyspurshorse4h@gmail.com & Find us on Facebook! 12/22

NORTH OK THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOC. 250-549-0105 www.notra.info Providing therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with disabilities 9 /22

SOUTH CENTRAL QUARTER HORSE ASSOC., Host of April Fuzzy Horse Show and September AQHA Circuit Show, http://bcqha.com/index.php/scqha 12/22

OKANAGAN POLO CLUB (Kelowna BC), new members welcome, weekly gatherings, annual tournament, and fun! www.okanaganpoloclub.com 9/22

VINTAGE RIDERS EQUESTRIAN CLUB (Fraser Valley BC), English/Western, lectures, clinics, socials, safe and fun, vintageriders@shaw.ca, on Facebook 4/22

100 Mile & District Outriders

7/18 11/22

Promoting equine activities and knowledge in the south Cariboo with Shows, Clinics, Gymkhanas and more.

Harvey President: Adam Mike Kidston E-mail: info@outriders.com ~ www.100mileoutriders.com

PEACHLAND RIDING CLUB, Pres: Kevin Froese (Kevin.leroy.froese@gmail.com).

Info, Gymkhana dates & events at www.peachlandridingclub.com 6/22

Peruvian Horse Club of BC Smooth • Versatile • Intelligent www.phac.ca/BC/index.html

VERNON DISTRICT RIDING CLUB (Vernon BC), check out our website at vernonridingclub.com or visit our Facebook & Instagram pages 2/23 WILD ROSE DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.wrdha.com. Barb Stephenson (Secretary) phone 403-933-5765 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm) 6/22

Clubs - you should be listed here Non-profit rates start at only $100 per year and includes a FREE web link for one year!

9/22

What’s Happening? Let’s Go!

2022 Events?

LET US KNOW – THIS IS A FREE SERVICE FOR NON-PROFIT EVENTS. REQUIRED FORMAT FOR EACH DATE:

Jan 1-3 OPEN HORSE SHOW, Smith Arena, Smithsville, BC, John 604-123-4567 johnsmith@smith.net, www.smithshow.com

DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS CALL AHEAD TO SEE IF THE EVENT IS STILL HAPPENING. BE SAFE EVERYONE!

APRIL

TACK SALE, 10am-2pm, Armstrong Curling Club, Armstrong BC, Nancy 250-546-9922, nancyroman@telus.net 15-17 HORSE EXPO CANADA, Westerner Park, Red Deer AB, 403-629-0434 or 1-833-425-1799, exhibitors@horseexpo.ca 15-17 VDRC CLINIC w/Tanya Rosen, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com 22-23 STAGE 1 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, Mission Acres Arena, Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com CXL 22-24 CAN-AM EQUINE EXPO, Heritage Park, Chilliwack BC, anamequineexpo.com 22-23 SPRING SIDEWALK SALE, Diamond H Tack, Kelowna BC, 250-762-5631, on Facebook and Instagram 22-24 CWHBA SPRING RIDING HORSE SALE, canadianwarmbloods.com RIDE & DRIVE POKER RIDE, Cariboo Country Carriage Club, 24 Karyn karyngreenlees@yahoo.ca 24-25 STAGE 2+ HORSEMANSHIP WORKSHOP w/Glenn Stewart, Mission Acres Arena, Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com 30-May 1 VDRC SCHOOLING SHOW, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com 2

MAY 6 6-8

RANCH HORSE SALE, Lethbridge AB, perlich.auction, 403-329-3101 VDRC CLINIC w/Georgia Hunt, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com

42 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

7 11-13 13-14 13-15 13-15 14-15 20-23 21 21-22 21-23 21-23 22

SPRING HORSE SALE, Lethbridge AB, perlich.auction, 403-329-3101 ARENA 2 TRAIL WORKSHOP (Beg. to Adv.) w/Dawn Ferster, Timber Ridge Trails, Lumby BC, dawnferster@gmail.com WILD ROSE DRAFT HORSE SALE (& Tack), Olds AB, Barb 403-933-5765, wrdha.com HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Dustin Drader, Grassland Grazers Ranch, Beaverdell BC, elcentroequine.com WORKING EQUITATION CLINIC w/Deb Erickson, Enderby BC, drsusicienciala@gmail.com ARENA 2 TRAIL COMPETITION (1 of 2) w/Dawn Ferster, Timber Ridge Trails, Lumby BC, dawnferster@gmail.com FIELD DRIVING TRIAL, Cariboo Country Carriage Club, Karyn karyngreenlees@yahoo.ca STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Military Music Spectacular, Topaz Park, Victoria BC, strathconas.ca DRESSAGE & JUMPING CLINIC w/Dale Irwin, Vernon District Riding Club, Vernon BC, Ruth 250-542-2106, ruthless6@shaw.ca 102nd FALKLAND STAMPEDE, Falkland BC, thefalklandstampede.ca 3-DAY TRUST & CONFIDENCE CLINIC w/D’arcy Luttmer, on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613 STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Victoria Highland Games, Topaz Park, Victoria BC, strathconas.ca

What’s Happening? Let’s Go! 23 23 26-27 28-30

PERCENTAGE DAY w/ Dale Irwin, Vernon District Riding Club, Vernon BC, Ruth 250-542-2106, ruthless6@shaw.ca STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Victoria Day Parade, Douglas Street, Victoria BC, strathconas.ca STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Okanagan Military Tattoo, Armstrong BC, strathconas.ca 3-DAY TRUST & CONFIDENCE CLINIC w/D’arcy Luttmer, on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613

JUNE 3-26 3-6 4 5-11 8-11 10-12 10-12 TBA 13-16 15-19 18-26 24-26 24-27 25 25-26 28-30

29-Jul 10 30-July 3

JULY 11-14

16-18

HORSEMANSHIP FOUNDATION COURSE (4 parts) w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com STAGE 1 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com POT O GOLD OPEN SHOW, Fairgrounds, Armstrong BC, Nancy 250-546-9922, nancyroman@telus.net 7-DAY PACKING & SHOEING CLINIC w/Colleen Luttmer(Murphy), on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613 STAGE 1+ & 2 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Dustin Drader, Grassland Grazers Ranch, Beaverdell BC, elcentroequine.com VDRC HUNTER JUMPER SHOW, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com VDRC DRESSAGE SHOW, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com STAGE 2+ HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Spruce Meadows Tournament, Calgary AB, strathconas.ca HORSEMANSHIP INTENSIVE CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com BCHBC RENDEZVOUS, CN Centre, Prince George BC, bchorsemen.org 4-DAY COLT STARTING CLINIC w/D’arcy Luttmer, on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613 STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Sundre Pro Rodeo Parade, Sundre AB, strathconas.ca WORKING EQUITATION CLINIC w/Darcy Henkel, Kelowna Riding Club, Kelowna BC, Susanne sz.kelowna@gmail.com ARENA 2 TRAIL WORKSHOP (Beg. to Adv.) w/Dawn Ferster, Timber Ridge Trails, Lumby BC, dawnferster@gmail.com

STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Spruce Meadows Tournament, Calgary AB, strathconas.ca WELCOME BACK 2 WORKING EQUITATION SHOW & Clinic, Armstrong BC, ilona.berbekar@equusenvironmental.com or cathy.macdonald@mac.com

20-Aug 3 21-24 30-Aug 1 30-Aug 1

STRATHCONA MOUNTED TROOP, Calgary Stampede, Calgary AB, strathconas.ca 3-DAY ROUND PENNING CLINIC w/D’arcy Luttmer, on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613 HIGH & WILD LEARNING HOLIDAY ADVENTURE w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com BC SUMMER GAMES, Prince George BC, hcbc.ca 3-DAY TRUST & CONFIDENCE CLINIC #2 w/D’arcy Luttmer, on FB Wildhorse Ventures at Merston Creek Ranch, Quesnel BC, 250-249-9613 KIDS & YOUTH WORKING EQUITATION CLINIC & Fun Show w/Darcy Henkel, Paradise Hills Ranch,Lumby BC, Susanne sz.kelowna@gmail.com

AUGUST date TBA 3-10 5-7 11-14 19-20 20-21 21-22 25-28 31-Sep 4

RIDE & DRIVE POKER RIDE, Cariboo Country Carriage Club, Karyn karyngreenlees@yahoo.ca HIGH & WILD LEARNING HOLIDAY ADVENTURE w/Glenn Stewart, The Horse Ranch, Baldonnel BC, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com CRTWH 40th ANNIVERSARY EVENT, all Gaited Horses welcome!

Thorsby AB, crtwh.ca ARENA 2 TRAIL WORKSHOP (Beg. to Adv.) w/Dawn Ferster, Timber Ridge Trails, Lumby BC, dawnferster@gmail.com STAGE 1 HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC w/Glenn Stewart, Mission Acres Arena, Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com VDRC SUMMER SHOW, Vernon BC, vernonridingclub.com STAGE 2+ HORSEMANSHIP WORKSHOP w/Glenn Stewart, Mission Acres Arena, Cochrane AB, 250-789-3072, sandy@thehorseranch.com HEART OF THE HORSE Colt Starting Competition (w/Glenn Stewart), Silver Sage Arena, Brooks AB, tickets at heartofthehorse.ca INTERIOR PROVINCIAL EXHIBITION & STAMPEDE, Armstrong BC, armstrongipe.com

MORE DATES AT SADDLEUP.CA

Rural Roots

REALTORS, YOUR LISTING SHOULD BE HERE ADS ARE ONLY $90 OR LESS!

1-866-546-9922 for more info APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 43

Business Services ACCOMMODATIONS

FARM SUPPLIES DAWSON CO-OP HOME & AGRO CENTRE, 250-782-3371 10020 Parkhill Drive, Dawson Creek BC, www.dawsonco-op.crs

12/22

3/23

FARRIERS & SUPPLIES R E D

D E E R

9/22

ARENA MAINTENANCE

3/23

BEDDING, HOG FUEL, SHAVINGS

11/22

FEED DEALERS

Ph: 250-503-7432 NATA FARMS Serving BC’s Interior including South Okanagan WWW.REIMERSFARMSERVICE.COM (BC Interior) 1-855-737-0110 or 250-838-0111. Bulk & Bagged Shavings, 4x4x4 Totes, Sawdust, Bark Mulch

ASHCROFT HOME BUILDING CENTRE (Ashcroft) 250-453-2281 Otter Co-op Dealer & Pet Foods. You can find us on Facebook 11/22

100% Canadian

ABBOTSFORD DUNCAN KELOWNA LANGFORD NANAIMO PARKSVILLE SANNICH SALMON ARM WEST KELOWNA

31852 Marshall Place 5410 Trans Canada Hwy. 103-1889 Springfield Rd. 975 Langford Parkway 1-1227 Island Hwy. S. 587 Alberni Hwy. 1970 Keating Cross Rd. 1771 10th Ave SW 2565 Main St.

556-7477 748-8171 860-2346 940-4499 753-4221 248-3243 652-9188 832-8424 768-8870

7/22 6/21

Shavings • Hog Fuel • Bark Mulch • Compost 5/22

• Horse

FENCING 12/22

12/22

DEAD STOCK REMOVAL THE BLUE GOOSE CATTLE CO. (Ok/Shuswap) 250-309-0629 or 250-838-2157, Providing prompt dead stock removal service when the decision has to be made. 4/22

EDUCATION

ARMSTRONG 250-546-9174

Wanted Wranglers / Trail Guides Guide on Guest Ranch / Horse pack trips www.chilcotinholidays.com

WHOLESALE PANELS & GATES countrywestsupply.com CHILLIWACK 1-877-847-3735

NANAIMO 250-912-0095

GUEST RANCHES 8/19 11/22

5/22

EQUINE HEALTH

3/22

2/23

44 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

DEADLINE 5th of each month

Business Services GUEST RANCHES

TRAINERS/COACHES Close to nature Far from crowds 8-10,000 acres & private lake

DAWN FERSTER (Kelowna BC) Coaching/Training/Workshops 250-808-0738 Mountain Trail/Western/Dressage, see Damarhe Training on FB 3/23 7/22

Spring Lake Guest Ranch

www.springlakeranch.com • 250-791-5776 (100 Mile House BC)

ELISA MAROCCHI (100 Mile House BC), EC Licensed Driving Coach 250-706-2824 Clinics, Lessons, Training on/off farm, www.wildwoodfarm.ca 5/22 10/22

LESSON PROGRAMS

International Clinician and Horseman 1-877-728-8987 www.thehorseranch.com

WWW.FOOTNOTEFARM.COM (Langley BC) 778-822-3276 Certified instructors, safe & sound horses, curriculum followed, privates for beginners. 5/22

LEE PONCELET TRAINING STABLES (Vernon, BC) 250-938-2034 Starting Colts.

Training all levels. Specializing in Cutting/Cowhorse. www.lpperformancehorses.com 8 /22

REALTORS

BC’s Leader in Agricultural Real Estate bcfarmandranch.com 604-852-1180 • info@bcfarmandranch.com 7/22

WESTWIN REALTY

5/22

CASIE MENHINICK REALTOR®

Specializing in BC’s Rural Communities

778-209-0305 E-mail: casie@royallepage.ca Follow me on social media @kamloopsandruralrealestate

TACK/CLOTHING SHOPS DIAMOND H TACK INC. (Kelowna BC) 877-762-5631 English & Western Saddlery, Clothes, Farrier, Feed, Blanket & Leather Repairs 10/22

TRAILER REPAIRS PETERSEN TRAILERS LTD. (Langley) 604-533-4209 Service and Repairs. All makes. www.petersentrailers.ca 7/22

TRAILER SALES KITT EQUIPMENT TRAILER SALES, (Chilliwack & Aldergrove), 1-877-823-7199, Horse ~ Stock ~ Utility ~ Dump ~ Flatdecks, Kittequipment.com 4/22

TRAINERS/COACHES BIRGIT STUTZ, Irwin Insights Master Level 6 Cert. Trainer, www.fallingstarranch. ca, Training/lessons/clinics/student programs, Dunster BC, 250-968-6801 10/22

Build Something Lasting

Elisha Bradburn is available for Clinics & Events Based out of Faithful Farm in Langley, BC Follow Legacy Horsemanship on Facebook and Instagram E-mail inquiries to legacyhorsemanship@shaw.ca

SANDY LANG HORSEMANSHIP (Abbotsford BC) 778-344-3804, Foundation Focus Working Equitation, Natural Horsemanship, www.sandylanghorsemanship.com 9/22 SOMATIC RIDER AND ENERGY MEDICINE - Lisa Wieben (Vernon BC) Balance the Rider, Balance the Horse, www.somaticrider.com, 403-335-5993 7/22 WILDHORSE VENTURES AT MERSTON CREEK RANCH (Quesnel BC) 250-249-9613, Horse Training & Clinics, Horses & Cariboo Mountain Dogs for sale. See us on FB 12/22

VETERINARIANS ANIMAL CARE HOSPITAL Williams Lake 250-392-5510 / Quesnel 250-747-3053 Drs. Magnowski, Scheidt, Thompson, Jordan, Ree , 4/22 INTERIOR VETERINARY HEALTH SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-769-4217, Mobile Equine, Brytann Youngberg DVM, VSMT, College of Animal Chiropractors 9/22

KAMLOOPS LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARY CLINIC

9/22

2/23

HORSE FIRST HORSEMANSHIP

WALES EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES (Okanagan) 250-258-2299 Drs. Alex Wales and Dr. Susan Wales, www.walesequine.com 9/22

YOUR BUSINESS SHOULD BE HERE!

LISTINGS START AT ONLY $250 PER YEAR (FOR 11 ISSUES);

PLUS WE CAN ADD A WEB LINK FOR JUST $50 PER YEAR. SEE PAGE 4 FOR CONTACT INFO. APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 45

On The Market (Private Sale) The Peruvian Horse

The smoothest riding horse in the world!

For Pleasure, Trail, Show, Work...

Discover the versatile Peruvian Horse at PHAC.ca!

Looking to the future with:

Aaron & Colleen Wangler 250-843-7337 (Dawson Creek BC) oldbaldy@hotmail.ca www.northernhorse.com/oldbaldy

Horse”

We breed and train GYPSY COBS AND VANNERS Aimee & Luc Beauchamp 250-438-1066

(Princeton BC) ponderosaridgeranch@outlook.com PonderosaRidgeRanch.ca

12/22

AW Blue Fire N Te AQHA Blue Roan AW Poco Kintaro | AQHA/NFQH 98% Palomino with dun dilution Axels N Steel Dust | AQHA/NFQH 98% Grullo

If you’re looking for your “Heart look no further!

Visit PHAC.ca for more Information on this Incredible Breed!

8/22 3/17

11/22

Fell Ponies and Friesians

PHOTO ADS ONLY $60 (OR LESS)

NEXT DEADLINE APRIL 5

Quality Youngsters.

Approved UK imported Fell Stud.

5/22

www.DragonflyAcres.ca Email: Lisa.dragonflyacres@gmail.com

4/22

Stallions & Breeders APPALOOSACENTRE.COM 250-963-9779 Real Appaloosas for Today and the Future! 9/22 FOOTNOTE FARM FJORDS (Langley BC) 778-822-3276. Registered & imported breeding stock. Bred for performance and built to last. www.footnotefarm.com 5/22 OLD BALDY RANCH (Dawson Creek) 250-843-7337 SS: Breeding AQHA/NFQH Grullo & Blue Roan, www.northernhorse.com/oldbaldy 12/22 SUNSET VIEW RANCH (West Kelowna BC) 250-707-7271. Top Performance AQHA/APHA bloodlines, Breeding & Sales, on Facebook.com/sunsetviewranch

46 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA

3/23

BREEDERS YOUR LISTING SHOULD BE HERE.

ONLY $250 PER YEAR PLUS A WEB LINK AT JUST $50 PER YEAR

Shop & Swap!

HORSE BLANKET LAUNDRY & REPAIRS

MISCELLANEOUS

HORSE BLANKET & SADDLE PAD WASHING & Repairs. Clean used Blankets for sale. Town Centre Dry Cleaners, Town Centre Mall. 250-546-0104 (Armstrong BC) 4/22

Complete Balanced Bioavailable Source Of Essential MACRO and MICRO nutrients for HEALTHY HORSES Contact: Brigitte MacKenzie, 604-768-9558 (cell/text) WWW.ULTRA-KELP.COM 1-888-848-9988

Leather & S titches Custom Sewing

Happy Easter Happy Spring

Leather Hats, Belts, Moccasins Holsters, Knife Sheaths Upholstery Work & many Repairs

12/22

Th e Le a t h er La d y

Happy Happy Everything!

Sherri DeBoer 250.838.0778 theleatherlady95@gmail.com Box 62 Grindrod BC, V0E 1Y0

Calgary, Alberta 1-877-934-5835 kklivestock.com

DEEP CREEK GENERAL STORE ARMSTRONG’S GENERAL STORE

that has a little bit of everything Dealer for

Pet Food & Supplies Wood Shavings and MORE

250-546-3955

3455 Pleasant Valley Rd. Armstrong, BC

Your 5 Star Store for: Horse Tack Saddles Giftware Feed Supplies

Proud to carry TOP Saddle Makers Vic Bennett, Roohide, Jeff Smith, Paul Taylor and more!

See what’s NEW at

saddleup.ca

APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA • 47

48 • APRIL 2022

SADDLEUP.CA