Saddle Up August 2023

2014 A/S Chamber

President’s Choice Award

Publisher/Editor Nancy Roman

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From the Editor…

Well summer is now going full force with so much going on, and we have heat and we have fires. Stay safe everyone!

We’ve got some great stories inside from groups all over BC and Alberta; always nice to hear of successful events too!

‘ Tis the season… bugs and ticks… see the articles on how to help out your favourite four-legged buddies.

I found it interesting that the Township of Langley recently offered a farm tour to council members and other agricultural parties, focusing on the horse industry. See their write-up on page 6. Maybe other communities should follow suit to raise awareness of the horse industry in their area. Could be good for tourism and real estate too!

I’ve been busy having some fun volunteering for different shows and events – happy to help out. Just wish I had more time to do it all… that’s where retirement comes in. I’m hopeful a buyer for the magazine comes forward soon, I’ve got plans and I am rarin’ to go!

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COVER FEATURE

RIDE AND REST

Enjoy the great outdoors and Rocky Mountains with this staging spot for your trail riding in Waterton Lakes National Park.

JOIN US BY WATERTON LAKES FOR THE ROCKING HEART RANCH RENDEZVOUS SHOWCASE AND OPEN HOUSE ON AUGUST 19, 2023!

RIDE AND LEARN

Ride the Rockies with clinics held at the ranch throughout the year. Spend days learning and then head out to the Rocky Mountains for a relaxing ride.

RIDE THE OBSTACLES

Play and Grow with your equine partner on our outside obstacle course that will encourage development and trust between you and your horse.

ROMANCE IN THE ROCKIES

A special outdoor location for your wedding day situated with a stunning view of the Rocky Mountains and Waterton River.

DIRECTIONS

Township of Langley

Farm Tour

The Township of Langley’s Agricultural Advisory and Economic Enhancement Committee (AAEEC) hosted their annual farm tour on Tuesday, June 20, 2023.

Hosting a farm tour is an action in the Agricultural Viability Strategy. It is a way to raise awareness to Council, other key decision makers and target audiences on the many aspects of the agricultural industry in the Township.

This year the AAEEC chose to showcase the businesses and services built around the horse industry. The tour kicked off with a networking mixer and opening remarks by Mayor Woodward and Councillor Pratt. The first stop was Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association, a

non-profit volunteer-based charity that offers medically approved therapeutic horseback riding to children and adults.

The next stop was at Windsor Stables, a boarding facility founded in 1989. Lisa Shultz, owner of Dream Chaser Equestrian, operates her business out of Windsor Stables, teaching riders of all ages and disciplines. Lisa’s students demonstrated to the farm tour attendees various disciplines: stadium jumping, dressage, western pleasure, and Pony Club Prince Phillip Games.

Mayor Eric Woodward (third from left) with Township Councillors Martens, Pratt and Baillie and other attendees at the Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association farm.

Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward greeting the tour attendees.

The final stop was a tour of Thunderbird Show Park that is celebrating its 50th year in 2023. Taste of Heaven food truck provided lunch while two guest speakers - Lisa Ellis, Principal of the Langley Equestrian Academy at Brookswood Secondary and Carla Robin, representing Valley Therapeutic and the Langley Horse and Farm Federation - spoke passionately about their organizations.

Chris Pack, President and Operations Director at Thunderbird, explained the improvements that the show park has made over the years for them to qualify for international level equestrian events while also improving the spectator experience by adding bleachers and a new kid’s zone.

Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward speaking with a young equestrian rider.

Attendees watching a presentation by equestrian riders.

Attendees speaking with the equestrian riders.

Resolve Sweet Itch and Insect

Allergies for your Horse!

By Marijke van de Water, B.Sc., DHMS

If you have a sweet itch horse, or a horse with insect bite reactions then you have seen lots of itching and rubbing and irritation. Some of them back into fence posts or rub their necks on stall doors or the trees. Or some of them go down on their bellies and rock back and forth on the ground.

They don’t have hands so they try to get relief to those hard-to-reach places any way they can. Many times, the itching is so intense that they rub out their manes and tails, and other parts of their hair coats. Often, they rub their skin raw.

Many concerned owners have tried everything from a variety of fly sprays to vinegar to fly sheets or just spend money fixing fences. But as we shall see sweet itch is not a topical problem, it is an internal and immune problem which explains why it doesn’t affect all horses. Once you address the real and underlying causes of insect allergies you will get results and your horses will feel much more comfortable.

What is Sweet Itch?

“Sweet Itch” is also often referred to as “summer eczema” and it is caused by a hypersensitivity to insect bites - usually flies, mosquitoes and especially biting midges (“no-see-ums”).

The skin has a protective layer known as the acid mantle which is a layer of lactic acid. Its job is to protect the skin from bacteria, parasites, insects, and infections. But when the acid mantle is damaged the insects can more easily bite and irritate. This acid mantle of the skin can be damaged by diet, sugar, grain, leaky gut, nutrient deficiencies including anemia, stress, poor immunity, toxins, acids, and food intolerances. All of these can contribute to a variety of skin problems resulting in inflammation, itching, infections, rashes, and increased hypersensitivity to insects.

Why are some horses more vulnerable than others?

Sweet itch and insect sensitivity is caused by a weakened immune system and damaged skin. The opportunistic blood-sucking insect is very attracted to this weakened condition; therefore the stronger horses who are in better health have more resistance. Sensitive horses with less resilience not only attract more bites but have actual allergic reactions to those bites due to compromised immunity. This results in inflamed skin, more discomfort, and increased itching.

What can we do?

Having had my own severe sweet itch horse who was a show horse at the time, I was motivated to find him some kind of relief without wrapping him up like a mummy. He must have been horrified! Looking back at his history I can now easily see why he was a candidate for skin problems. High levels of stress, too many chemical dewormers, too many vaccines, inappropriate diets, an overload of toxins, and over shoeing and faulty shoeing which caused blood circulation problems. But even after correcting these problems he was still a fly magnet and his skin was still reactive.

The holistic model always focuses on correcting or balancing the underlying cause. So, the next step to resolve his severe sweet itch was

to build up his immune system, cleanse his blood, and repair the damage to the skin. And the most effective ways of accomplishing this are diet changes, specific nutrients, and natural medicines.

First off, sweet itch horses should not be given any high sugar feeds or grains such as oats, barley, corn, or sweet feed. Also use caution with commercial feed mixes. And horses should not be fed added fats as they can congest the liver, compromise the immune system, and aggravate allergy reactions.

Then I had to formulate a specific product which would neutralize the allergy reaction to the insect bites, detoxify the blood, support the liver, and ultimately restore the health of the acid mantle. After extensive research and some trial and error my quest led me to a new formulation called Summer Tincture. It contains herbal extracts of Calendula, Echinacea, Linden, Thyme, and Yellow Dock. Combined with Vitamin C it was a winning combination! My horse and I could not believe how well it worked! He was so happy! As was I.

Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) provides excellent support for the immune system, maintains liver function, and helps to restore the acidity of the acid mantle of the skin.

We decided to add the Riva’s Herbal Skin Oil to the program for topical application to open sores, rashes, infections, and the bites themselves. This offers immediate relief and helps to promote healing. It also helps ward off those pesky insects who hate the smell of tea tree oil (but we love it!). The Riva’s Herbal Skin Oil contains Tea Tree Oil and Goldenseal emulsified in light olive oil. Use it for any kind of skin problems including wounds.

The combination of Summer Tincture, Vitamin C, and Riva’s Herbal Skin Oil is truly the most effective solution for sweet itch that many of our

Marijke van de Water, B.Sc., DHMS Equine Health & Nutrition Specialist Homeopathic Practitioner Medical Intuitive & Healer Educator & Author.

Marijke is a life-long horse lover, the author of the best-selling book Healing Horses Their Way, and the founder, formulator, and CEO of Riva’s Remedies. She is a gifted healer who helps horses, and their people, from around the world live happier, healthier lives. She is currently working on the 3rd edition of Healing Horses Their Way.

customers have come across. It has brought permanent relief to SO many horses! And the horses can now enjoy their summers focused on spending time with the herd and their humans, instead of looking for objects to scratch on.

From a happy customer…

“For years, my horse and I have struggled with her sweet itch. I thought we had tried pretty much everything to bring her relief, then I saw a passing reference to Riva’s Remedies Sweet Itch products. Ordered it, got it, and the results were almost instant. Not only is the sweet itch under control, but Grace is clearly happier and healthier. What a relief – for both of us! So grateful, thank you.”

Nancy T.

of The

Tick Control in Horses

Ticks have become a significant concern for horses with their presence spreading to previously unaffected areas. The reasons behind their increased prevalence vary, including global warming and the rise in tick-infested deer and wildlife populations. Besides itchy skin and blood loss, ticks also transmit serious diseases like Lyme Disease, Equine Piroplasmosis, Equine Granulocytic Anaplasmosis, and Tick Paralysis. Because ticks are not species-specific, they can feed on horses, dogs, and humans alike.

T icks are blind and detect their hosts by sensing ammonia from a horse's breath or body during sweating, as well as by detecting moisture, heat, and vibrations. They wait for a host on grasses and shrubs, extending their first pair of legs. When a horse passes by, ticks quickly climb aboard and can attach immediately or move around the horse in search of areas with thinner skin, such as the chest, underbelly, mane, tail, or flank. Tick bites are often itchy and appear as small, firm nodules. Once engorged with blood, ticks can exit the body to molt and lay eggs.

Since ticks usually require a feeding period before transmitting diseases, it's crucial to remove them promptly. Thoroughly check horses for ticks after a ride and at least daily if they're out on pasture. Sometimes it's easier to feel ticks than see them, so use your fingertips to scratch the horse's skin in areas where ticks tend to attach, looking for small bumps indicating immature ticks that are hard to spot. If you find a tick, remove it immediately. Avoid the harmful rumors surrounding tick removal, such as crushing or twisting the tick, smothering it with baby oil or petroleum, or using a lit match. Instead, wear gloves and use tweezers to gently grasp the tick by the head where it enters the skin. Pull firmly, slowly, and steadily straight away from the skin until the tick's head detaches. Place the detached tick in a small jar of rubbing alcohol to kill it. Wash the attachment site with a mild antiseptic and clean your hands.

To decrease the number of ticks your horse encounters, manage the pasture by removing brush and mowing tall grass where ticks typically reside. Discouraging wildlife like deer can also help prevent

tick reintroduction. Tick prevention involves a combination of locating and removing ticks, applying topical acaricides directly to the horse, and implementing environmental controls. Common repellents include pyrethrins and synthetic pyrethroids. It's important to check the labels of these products to ensure their effectiveness against ticks as some horse fly sprays are not effective against ticks. Apply the repellents to the horse's mane, tail head, chest, and underbelly before riding or turning them out on pasture.

Alternatively, oral administration of ivermectin or moxidectin dewormers can be effective against ticks, but the ticks must feed on the treated horse for the drugs to take effect, so still can cause transmission of disease.

Essential oils have been studied for their potential as natural tick repellents. While some essential oils may have repellent properties, it's important to note that their effectiveness can vary, and they may not provide the same level of protection as synthetic chemical-based repellents.

Research suggests that certain essential oils, such as citronella, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, and geranium may have some repellent effects against ticks. These oils contain compounds that can act as natural deterrents for ticks and other insects. However, the efficacy of essential oils as tick repellents can be limited in comparison to synthetic repellents that have undergone extensive testing and development. It's important to consider that essential oils may offer a shorter duration of protection and require more frequent application compared to commercial tick repellents.

Call Cloverdale Pharmasave with your questions 604-576-2888.

Lyle Sunada is a pharmacist specializing in veterinary medicine and alternative medicine at Cloverdale Pharmasave. Lyle has helped small and large animal owners for over 30 years and believes in looking at the root cause of health conditions. Everything mentioned in the article is available in-store

Island 22 Equestrian Park in Chilliwack BC A Bit of History... Celebrating 35 Years of

Thirty seven years ago, in 1985, a vision was conceived by local Mt. Cheam pony club parents who realized that their children needed a safe equestrian park to ride at. They approached the Horse Council BC with the idea, and they approached the City of Chilliwack, and at the time the Chilliwack Horse Council, for a potential plan to create such an equestrian park.

The current site on Cartmell Road was offered, an 88 acre gravel pit overgrown in blackberries and cottonwood trees. The society saw potential and went to work on getting grants to help put this project together. It took 2 years to design the park setting and construct over 100 permanent cross country fences from pre-training to preliminary. Shrubs from Minter Gardens were brought in and were paired up with each jump.

There were 80 paddocks built at the very far west end of the park, but that land has now since eroded away and 140 paddocks were rebuilt up at the front entrance of the park. The original big arena was hog fuel and has since been upgraded to crusher dust as well as two more arenas put in. We have seen a second water complex built as well as our own show office.

A lot has happened over the past 30 years when the first event started in 1988 with pre-training to Prelim. Now we offer starter to entry level cross country jumps as well at the park.

Island 22 Equestrian Park is used all year round for riders to enjoy, as well as clubs to hold lessons, clinics, jumper derbies and more. With a bike park, dog park and boat launch (famous sturgeon fishing), this park can be enjoyed by the whole family.

We are very excited to be hosting and celebrating our 35th anniversary of running the famous Island 22 three day eventing Horse Trials and BC Championships on September 1-3, 2023 weekend. For more information please visit https://island22horsepark.com/

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!”

The three phases of Eventing Dressage, Stadium, Cross Country

Canadian Derby Historical Highlights of Past Alberta

Bred Connections

By Lindsay Ward, www.cthsalta.com

The most prestigious race in Alberta for three year old Thoroughbreds will take place this August 26th at Century Mile Racetrack and Casino. This classic $200,000 Grade III race typically attracts entries from far and wide to face challengers over a demanding distance of ten furlongs.

The Canadian Derby was the creation of R. James Speers who held the inaugural event in 1930 at Polo Park Racetrack in Winnipeg, Manitoba under the name, Manitoba Stakes. At that time, it was restricted to three year olds foaled in Manitoba. It was renamed the Manitoba Derby and opened up to “Three Year Olds Foaled in the Dominion of Canada” by 1936. It was again re-named in 1941 to the Canadian Derby and the cash purse value increased from $2,000 to $5,000. The distance was expanded to one mile and a quarter in 1934 from the one mile previously. Eastern invaders were common as the race grew in purse money and status. In 1937, Goldlure, the winner of the King’s Plate, made the 1300 mile trip from Toronto to Winnipeg by

EARN MORE WITH ALBERTA BREDS

Owners shared in an additional $372,830 in 2022 bonus monies through the Breed Improvement Program!

rail transport to triumph in the Canadian Derby.

The race was then moved to Edmonton in 1957 after Polo Park closed. Eastern and BC invaders continue to make their journey to compete for the prestigious win but Alberta horses have claimed their share of the victories over the years.

Parisienne by Dr. Joe out of Madam Hurry owned by Tommy Burton and bred by Arthur Layzell, both of Calgary, won the second running in 1931 while Lady Marnock, bred by Fred Johnston of Calgary “won easily by 2 lengths under the capable handling of Johny Longden” in 1932 (1936 Canadian Thoroughbreds Issued by R. James Speers, January 1937). Lady Marnock by George II ranked fourth among Canadian bred money winners and her dam, Lady Kilmarnock, was ranked Leading Broodmare of Canada (also producing “The Duchess” Duchess of York who ranked third on the money winning roster in 1931). Lady Kilmarnock (1907) was bred by A.S. Bowman of Lethbridge, Alberta. In 1939, the Canadian Derby was won by Alberta owner Kenneth M. Leach’s Larry Eckardt and in 1940, Alberta claimed the title again when John Hazza’s Sir Trapseth won by five lengths. In 1947, Sir Berril (Osiris II – Polly Berril) bred by R.J. Speers of Winnipeg but owned by Drumheller and Lochead of Calgary took the Canadian Derby title.

A dry streak for Alberta bred or owned runners took place from 1933 through 1948 but in 1949, a runner named Yates Senior earned a $3,000 share of the purse for his win over highly regarded Big George and the 20th Canadian Derby title came back to an Alberta bred runner. The dark brown colt by Fairmond out of Nut Brown was both bred and owned by W.J. Yates of Calgary who earned $250 as a breeder’s bonus.

An Alberta bred named Beau Orage, by Onslaught II out of

Spangled Jimmy Alberta bred 1957 Canadian Derby Winner

Holden of Midnapore, Alberta was “one of the best ever raised in the West.” Beau Orage amassed $34,830 in career earnings.

Spangled Jimmy won the 1957 Canadian Derby title, starting a streak of Alberta bred runners winning the race from 1957 through 1960. As Sportswriter Denny Layzell commented in his review of the Canadian Derby, “It was fitting that when the Derby moved to Edmonton’s Northlands Park in 1957 that the winner should be Edmonton-raised, Edmonton-owned and Edmonton-trained.” The bay horse by Soodani out of Spangled Belle had a spectacular year in addition to the Canadian Derby title capturing the Alberta Derby Trial, the Canadian Derby Trial, and the Governor’s Speed Handicap Breeder for owner J.A. Charlesworth.

Another home town victory the following year saw the Alberta bred Percy Yates win the Canadian Derby in 1958 for owner, breeder and trainer W.J. (Bill) Yates of Calgary. He was by the same sire as Spangled Jimmy but out of the broodmare, Compelling. Percy Yates was declared Mr. Thoroughbred’s Triple Crown Winner in 1958 as he was named Horse of the Year and Leading Money Winner in addition to W.J. Yates being named Leading Breeder. The 1959 running of

the Canadian Derby was taken by the Alberta bred runner, Sonoma. The filly by Battant out of Fair Ida ran an exciting race coming from last place in a field of nine. Sonoma had career earnings of $17,916 for owner and breeder Lee Williams of Edmonton and was named Horse of the Year for Western Canada by Mr. Thoroughbred magazine. The Sonoma Handicap is still an annual race, taking place this year in July at Century Mile Racetrack and Casino. Count Lathum finished off the streak of Alberta bred wins by capturing the 1960 title in a field of fifteen - the largest in Canadian Derby history.

Brother Leo owned and trained by “Calgary Spud” Murphy claimed the 1963 Canadian Derby victory. According to an article in the 1974 Western Racing Revue written by his long-time friend, Jim Coleman,

continued on page 14

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Gingerbell, won the 1951 running of the Canadian Derby by five lengths and set a track record of 2:06 2/5. According to Calgary Herald Turf Writer, Denny Layzell, the chestnut colt bred and owned by F. M.

Beau Orage Alberta bred 1951 Canadian Derby winner

Freedoms Traveller Alberta bred Canadian Derby 2011 Winner

Horse property located between Osoyoos and Oliver with a very nice 4 bedroom, 3 bath home set on 11.4 acres of pasture and hayfields - all fenced and cross-fenced. Lots of water for irrigation (3 hay cuts per year totalling about 500 bales), a 4-stall barn with hay loft, paddocks with

continued from page 13

Chariot Chaser Alberta bred Winner 1965 Canadian Derby

during the official ceremony, “Spud was wearing his best tan suit and his round red face glistened with pleasure and embarrassment. The crowd was applauding loudly because Spud was a very popular little man, a racetrack gypsy who, after years of earnest hustling, had hit the jackpot. Brother Leo changed Spud’s life. After the Canadian Derby victory, Murphy received several offers for his colt and, weighing all the probabilities, he eventually accepted one of those offers.” The sum in the amount of about $50,000 allowed Spud to buy himself “a nice little house in Calgary and he moved out of the racetrack tack room which had been his home for so many years.” The Esprit’ de France sired horse went on to run for seven seasons being retired from his race career in 1968 with $97,956 in lifetime earnings.

A filly named Chariot Chaser captured the 1965 running of The Canadian Derby with, according to an article by Don Valliere in the March-April 1966 Canadian Horse magazine, a “thrilling late charge that gave her a nose victory over the favoured Weed Bender.” The earnings for Chariot Chaser of $28,634 in 1965 were a record high at the time for a horse campaigned exclusively in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Bred by Lloyd Wilson of Edmonton, he “sold the filly but took her back when her disposition proved too sour for her new owner’s taste.” The

Champion Three Year Old in western Canada, Chariot Chaser was by Lloyd Wilson’s own sire Count Jac out of Benatha by Devil’s Thumb.

Golden West Farms of Okotoks bred Gilmore, winner of the 1967 Canadian Derby. This multiple stakes winning son of Tall Chief II made over $70,000 in career earnings. Fred Mannix of Calgary wrapped up the 1960s with a Canadian Derby win in 1969 with the homebred Wyn D’Amour.

The next western connection to the Derby title went to Western Reason in 1977. Bred by Elmbrook Farms and Bory Margolus of Edmonton, the multiple stakes winner by the sire Reasonable Fair out of Western Gal completed his race career with $58,905 in earnings. A dry stretch for Alberta connections occurred throughout the remainder of the 1970s and 1980s until the Alberta bred Jan Alta captured the Canadian Derby in 1996. The Variety Road gelding was a multiple stakes winner with $344,816 in earnings for owner and breeder Ila Khan of Calgary. A Dixieland Brass Alberta bred filly, Native Brass, won the 1999 running for owners Robert and Roberta Giffin. Bred by Denny Andrews of Edmonton out of the mare Shawl Dance, this filly went on to become a graded stakes winner with $272,194 in career earnings.

Remarkably, a homebred from the Wilson family and Lomar Stables, Scotman, won the Canadian Derby in the year 2000, 35 years after their other homebred Chariot Chaser claimed the victory in 1965. Scotman won in stunning fashion and returned the title to the Wilson family. Sportswriter Terry Jones quoted Gordon Wilson in the August 27, 2000 Edmonton Sun, “I remember Chariot Chaser just ate up Weed Bender” and Jones further commented that “Yesterday, Scotman just ate up Breaker Breaker and the rest of the field, winning by an amazing nine and three quarters lengths.” The graded stakes winning son of Ascot Knight out of Halo’s Romance earned over $380,000 in his career.

The Peacenfreedom son, Freedoms Traveller, was the most recent Alberta bred to lay claim to the Canadian Derby title in 2011. Randy and Donna Feddema of Carstairs bred the graded stakes winner out of a stakes winning mare, Lunar Gem. Freedoms Traveller earned over $265,000 in his race career and holds his place in history as the last Alberta bred to win the Canadian Derby.

The Canadian Derby is now part of the new Western Canadian Triple Crown in thoroughbred racing that includes the three western racetracks of Assiniboia, Century Mile Racetrack and Casino and Hastings Racecourse. The Western Canadian Triple Crown connects the $125,000 Manitoba Derby on August 7th, the $200,000 G3 Canadian Derby in Alberta on August 26th and the $125,000 British Columbia Derby on September 16th. In addition to $450,000 in purse money, there will be an additional $100,000 bonus should a horse win all three of the prestigious Derby events.

Over ninety years since its inception, the 94th running of the Canadian Derby takes place on August 26th. Alberta breeders and owners will no doubt be hoping for an Alberta bred to capture the title.

For Canadian Derby tickets, contact Century Mile Racetrack and Casino at www.cnty.com/centurymile/racing.

Jan

1996 Alberta bred Winner Canadian Derby

Alta

The History of the Canadian Bridlehorse Association & the Skills of the Outfits

By Christa Miremadi and Dave Ciriani

It was a time when this land was raw and wild and getting huge herds of cattle thousands of miles across the country was done entirely from horseback. Having a good, working relationship with one’s horse was not just important; it was survival for the Spanish Vaqueros

As the cattle arrived from Spain in the early 1500s and began to spread across North America, the Spanish Vaqueros came with them. Their shiny silver bits, long tapaderos and that unmistakable pride in their equine partner could be seen and was admired by all. The Vaqueros were the “rock stars” of their time and they began to compete with each other for the spotlight. Riding in their traditional old Spanish spade bits, developing their horses from jaquima to freno (hackamore to the bridle) through the two-rein… if one could achieve a soft, responsive feel with their horse using no more than 5 or 6 tail hairs connecting their reins to their bit, the next would do it with 3.

These methods were cultivated in the wide open, rolling hillsides of California, where the sun shines almost every day and no one’s in a rush to beat the weather, where the cattle was plentiful, the cowboys had time to work on a soft feel and where roping a grizzly was considered a team sport. It was this history that gave birth to the Californio Stockmen and eventually the Early Californio Skills of the Rancho, a competitive event held in Parkfield CA, USA by the Californio Bridlehorse Association to honor, demonstrate, preserve and pass on the values and skills of the early Californio stockmen and bridlemen of the historic working cattle ranches across North America.

But this history isn’t unique to California. This working art form is also part of BC’s heritage. In the 1860s, during the Cariboo gold rush, over 20,000 head of cattle crossed the border at Osoyoos from California, Oregon and Washington to feed the thousands of hungry miners. With these herds came the Californios along with their riding traditions, including the use of hackamore, spade bit, reata and California stock saddle. All of these tools require a skilled and refined hand, all of which will be evident as we preserve a bit of our own history at the first (and

second) official Canadian Bridlehorse Association event: The Skills of the Outfits: East & West.

For the past 10 years, Miles Kingdon has been sitting on the judges’ panel at the Parkfield CA Early Californio Skills of the Rancho event, along-side some other incredible working cowboys, helping to keep the Skills true to their history and preserve these traditions. Miles also has plenty of real life, working cowboy experience to draw on, qualifying him above and beyond as an ideal source of realistic and honest skill, knowledge and feedback. From his early days of cowboying, over 40 years ago on the vast Canadian prairie pasture lands, to BC's historic big cow outfits, Miles Kingdon has definitely worn out a few good saddles. His formative years spent at Douglas Lake Cattle Company, under such respected horsemen as Stan Murphy and cattlemen Mike Ferguson and Orval Roulston, helped prepare him for later lead-off positions at large established commercial ranches in the Nicola Valley.

Miles held cowboss positions on the Bar K and the Gang Ranch; he was the manager at Empire Valley Ranch, and eventually he served ten years as manager of cattle operations at Quilchena Cattle Company near Merritt BC. It was throughout these 40+ years in the industry and the study of the Vaquero and Californio Horsemanship that Miles recognized the true meaning of an equine partnership built on trust, confidence and respect. It was this incredible affinity for understanding horses and cattle that paved the way for his career in teaching others;

There was a time when men partnered with horses in a way far more profound than they do today. When the soundness and mental and physical wellbeing of a horse meant the difference between life and death for a cowboy and for the livestock they tended to. Time and great care was taken, not only in producing fine horses but in their training as well.

Some of "The Crew" and supporters of the Canadian Bridlehorse Association. Photo by Christa Miremadi.

A good example of a Quarter Horse sporting the traditional equipment in a two-rein set up, well decorated with lots of silver. Photo by Connie Ellis.

Youth competitor Riley Knoll with her mare Bam in the hackamore in the Dummy Roping class. Photo by Connie Ellis.

putting on workshops and developing the next generation of cowgirls and cowboys, helping horses all across Canada by educating their humans and now, guiding and leading the newly formed Canadian Bridlehorse Association.

Over the past decade, Miles has been inspiring a group of men and women of all ages, from BC to Saskatchewan who’ve recognized

gear. They’re still welcome to participate at the Skills of the Outfits and we look forward to the competition these skilled individuals will present.

The first Skills of the Outfits will be held at the Silver Slate Arena is Stavely, Alberta on August 4-6. The second will be at the Barriere Fair Grounds in Barriere BC on September 2224. Classes will include: Cattle Sorting, Ranch Roping, Ranch Horse Pattern, Two-Man Doctoring and Team Sorting. There will be a time limit in the interest of organization and flow, however, the speed a task is completed isn’t a factor when it comes to scoring. Taking the time to set your horse up well, ensure the safety of the livestock and your teammates and completing each task smoothly is far more important than the speed at which a task is completed. There will be opportunities for Youth, Novice and Intermediate and Pro level riders to compete in both of these events and breakaway and dummy roping options for those who aren’t yet ready to rope live or hard.

the vast wealth of knowledge and skill that Miles possesses and he shares so willingly. It was these people, the ones who showed up at his workshops, attending one summer in a hackamore, the next in a two-rein and the next riding straight-up in the old Spanish spade, who pushed for something more.

Desiring to be a part of something like the Californio Bridlehorse Association and to have the opportunity to test themselves, see others and what they’ve accomplished and to be surrounded by those silver bits, long tapaderos and proud, confident horses, these people began to hound Miles. They became a burr under his saddle pad until he agreed, with their support, to create and head up an organization that would do just that. "The Crew," what we affectionately call this group of like-minded community members, has come together with the unified intention to share what we believe it's all about… the horses, the livestock and the people, and to educate others on one of the most misunderstood styles of horsemanship in the industry.

Together we’ve formed The Canadian Bridlehorse Association. This brand new group is in its infancy stage and as such we’re not yet set up for taking memberships but that’s on the horizon and memberships will be available soon.

We are however, presenting two events this year! The Skills of the Outfits East and West. These friendly competitions were inspired by the Early Californios Skills of the Ranchos and are open to all aspiring, amateur and working cowboys and cowgirls. We welcome everyone who has an interest in this way of life and style of horsemanship/ stockmanship. That being said, it’s also an opportunity to observe, show and share our passion for a good working stock horse, trained with the intricate, beautiful and sophisticated traditional system of the Californios who came to Canada in the 1860’s; jaquima to freno.

For this reason, special attention and preference will be shown to those who choose to present themselves and their horses in traditional equipment: hackamore, two-rein or straight-up in the old Spanish spade. This is the ultimate show of time, effort, care and development of feel and it’s what this organization is all about. Although the ultimate presentation would be in traditional gear, we understand that it’s expensive, sometimes hard to come by and requires a thorough education that’s not always accessible to all riders. Many riders who possess excellent horsemanship/stockmanship skills won’t have this

We’re so excited, not only about the Skills of the Outfits East & West and the opportunity they present to preserve and promote the system of horsemanship and stockmanship we’re so enthusiastic about, but also the creation of the Canadian Bridlehorse Association and how we know it will impact the horse industry here in Canada. It will provide a place for others like us on “The Crew” who value relationship and partnership with their horses, who want to develop a softer feel and to understand their horses and livestock in a more profound way.

If you want to become involved with the Canadian Bridlehorse Association and the Skills of the Outfits or if you’d just like to learn a little more about them, please take a minute to visit us online, either on one of our Facebook pages or groups or by visiting www. canadianbridlehorse.com. Or you can come on out to either event and see what we are up to!

Skills of the Outfits

Sept 22-24, 2023

North Thompson Fall Fair Rodeo Grounds Barriere, B.C.

Running in conjunction with the B.C. Ag Expo! ENTRIES NOW OPEN ALL AGES WELCOME!

Sept 22 - Miles Kingdon Demo Workshop

Participate in or observe the skills of the outfits in this special, one day only demo workshop designed to provide riders with a taste of what’s to come!

Sept 23 & 24 - Skills of the Outfits

A friendly competition with others who share your passion for the skills of the working cowboys who built this industry. Special rewards given to those demonstrating an understanding and affinity for the traditional vaquero gear and methods.

Contact Jasmine Bedford to register: jazzbedford@gmail.com or visit www.CanadianBridleHorse.com for more info

a working bridled stockhorse showcase & competition

Christa Miremadi and Kiger gelding Smoke competing in the tworein in the Cattle Sorting. Photo by Connie Ellis.

Ranch Horse Revolution Club

By Sara Walkem, RHRC president & executive team Photos Janice Reiter Photography

An amazing weekend had by all!

Despite some stormy weather, the Ranch Horse Revolution Club is proud to announce our first show of the year held June 24-25 was a huge success!

We never thought we would see the day that one of our shows would be ‘sold out,’ but to our surprise, we had to close entries two weeks before show day due to an unprecedented amount of entries!

Luckily our outstanding judge, Glenn Perran (of Kelowna BC) was happy to have us add a second judge to ensure that he and our exhibitors wouldn’t be showing into the wee hours of the morning! Whitney Watson-Wilson saved the day! With short notice and the stars aligning, she was able to come in and judge 65 Ranch Reining entries in one arena while Glenn judged in the Trail arena.

Ranch Horse Trail was the most popular class, which we had to CAP at 102 entries! Our largest division was the Green walk-trot-lope, with 18 exhibitors, followed by our newest division, DWD walk-trot, with 14 exhibitors; and our largest class was Ranch Conformation Geldings 6 & Over, which had 34 horses! Our biggest success was the development of the DWD (‘Don’t Wanna Die’) walk-trot division,

designed explicitly for the greenest-of-green novice exhibitor. We aimed to create a safe, supportive, and encouraging space for those new to showing to come out and gain confidence and experience in the ranch horse arena.

Our club’s motto is “Community over competition,” which we witnessed throughout the weekend, seeing new friendships forged, ongoing ringside support and encouragement, and an overall sense of community.

Our show saw a wide range of competitors from across BC and Alberta – some as far away as Vancouver Island and Calgary. Our

Stevie Pearson & Hesa Bueno Pep in Ranch Trail

Rylan Romano &

in Youth Ranch on the Rail open all-breed designation has attracted a lot of breed and discipline diversity. The holding arena and show arena were filled with quarter horses, paints, appaloosas, mustangs, arabians, a gypsy cob and a fjord, with exhibitors from all different backgrounds, some trying out the ranch horse discipline for the first time.

We are incredibly humbled by the support of our sponsors to make these shows possible! Thank you to Janice Reiter Photography for capturing all the beautiful show images from the weekend!

Please check out our Facebook page, “Ranch Horse Revolution Club” for more info! See you at our next show September 16-17 at the Armstrong IPE Fairgrounds for more revolutionary fun!

Vicki Howson & We Should B Friends in the Ranch Trail

Kerry Sawyer & Zipposladyindisguise in Ranch Trail

Kristen Mozel & NF Asians Astra in the Ideal Ranch Horse

Sawyer Walkem piloting CV Major Trouble in Lead Line

Oakley

Cariboo Gold Rush Express

By Joanne Macaluso | Photos Monika Paterson Photography

The Cariboo Gold Rush Express Endurance event held July 1 and 2 was a great success! For the second year in a row, the ride was held at the Monical Arena, a beautiful facility located just north of 100 Mile House. The event showcased the rolling hills, lakes and creeks that the Cariboo is famous for and on both days, riders, horses, vets and volunteers were greeted with sunshine.

We were honoured to welcome back our veterinary judges from last year. Dr. Glenn Sinclair hails from Manitoba and has judged events around the globe. Our “very own” Dr. Stefanie Krumsiek from Williams Lake rounded out the talented judging team. Riders came from all over BC, from as far as Fort St. John in the north and Vancouver Island to the south. We also welcomed two riders from Alberta and two from Oregon, USA.

There were 17 riders entered for the 50 mile on day one with 23 riders in the 25 mile distance. A total of 9 juniors participated (the youngest at just 8 years old)! Many riders were reaching milestones such as their first 25 mile event or first 50 miler.

Day two entries totalled 5 in the 50 mile distance and 10 in the 25 mile distance; however, the talk of the day was the introductory/fun ride with 19 entries! The introductory ride is not a competition. Rather, riders and their equines receive a pre- and post-ride vet check and this year, had a choice of an 8 mile loop or 17 mile loop to ride at their own controlled pace. The purpose of the fun ride is to provide riders with a taste of “what to expect” at an endurance event including pacing, how to care for their equines, (and themselves), how to present to the veterinarian, etc. Nine of the intro riders were brand new to endurance and after their ride, many declared that they were “hooked” and would love to pursue the sport further.

Most of the endurance events in BC offer introductory rides… please visit erabc.com for upcoming events and join us for some fun. The Cariboo Gold Rush Express team would like to thank all the participants and tireless volunteers, along with our sponsors, whose contributions helped make our event run so well. Success depends on many!

Results July 1:

50 MILE:

1st - Nick McDonald (Kamairo)

2nd - Mackenzie Lee (riding her first 50 mile event) (Maverick)

3rd - Whitney Medley (FV Canadian Dreamer)

4th - Jennifer Grace (The Flag is Up)

25 MILE:

1st - Amy Krazizky (Fantastic Mr. Fox)

2nd - Megan Ducharme (Tesh)

3rd - Daniela Wettstein (Paco)

4th - Shawnee Venables (Excalibur)

Results July 2

50 MILE:

1st - Nick McDonald (KO Can't Touch This)

2nd - Junior Rider Saylor Mayor (Monte Karlo)

3rd - Debbie Powell (FV Aura Dreamscape)

4th - Stephany Dean (Zanthia)

25 MILE:

1st - Marlene Moss (Double Exposure PW)

2nd - Daniela Wettstein (Marty)

3rd - Stace Moss (Double Bey Latte)

4th - Junior Rider Aryanna Langan

(Driftwoods Bucky)

50 miler Nick McDonald and KO Can't Touch This

Dr. Sinclair explaining how to present your horse at the vet check.

(from l to r): Ginger Langan on Driftwoods Chasing Fire; Saphyra Langan (junior) on Aliaha of E; Tara MacLeod on Zorros Calypso; and Aryanna Langan (junior) on Driftwoods Bucky

(from l to r): Amy Krazizky from Alberta aboard Fantastic Mr. Fox; Elroy Karius on Jolly Holiday and Megan Ducharme (also from AB) on Tesh

Provincial Foundations Officials Course Here Comes the Judge!

equineguelph.ca, thehorseportal.ca

It’s official! Five provincial equestrian associations have partnered with Equine Guelph to offer online training for those interested in becoming horse show judges in grass roots circuits. Entry level judges are a vital part of equestrian sport and beginning this spring the opportunity to train to become a recognized provincial official will be offered on TheHorsePortal.ca through the new Provincial Foundations Officials Course.

Provinces partnering with Equine Guelph to develop this new online training program include: Alberta Equestrian Federation, Equestrian Nova Scotia, Island Horse Council, Manitoba Horse Council and Newfoundland & Labrador Equestrian Association. The course content is based on an innovative online training model provided by Equestrian Nova Scotia on TheHorsePortal.ca for the past two years.

This course will be self-paced and there is a full year granted to complete this 25–30 hour prerequisite training to work towards becoming a Foundations Judge. Candidates will be learning the responsibilities of Judges at the grass-root levels, in order to officiate for multi-disciplined or general performance provincial shows.

As role models, Foundation Judges create a safe environment for equine sport at local shows, upholding rules, ensuring fair play, and equine welfare. Whether judging objective or subjective classes, entry

level judges can help build sport and long-term athletes.

Foundation judges will encounter multiple breeds and athletes from various walks of life including: the novice, those preparing to move up the levels and the more mature athlete that is active for life. The online program will help future judges or current disciplinespecific judges in focusing on the essence of each class and introduce the tools to judge a variety of classes with consistency.

Topics include Western Performance, Western Speed Division, Showmanship, Flat, Hunter, Jumper, Equitation over Fences, Dressage and Pleasure Driving.

“Equine Guelph recognizes Equestrian Nova Scotia for being leaders in spearheading online training programs to its officials,” says Gayle Ecker, director of Equine Guelph. “We are thrilled to be working together with five provinces to offer this accessible model of training to as many budding grassroots officials as possible.”

If you are interested in taking this first step in training to become a Provincial Foundation Official in Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island, you can register at https://thehorseportal.ca/course/provincial-foundations-officialscourse/

Tails to be Told . . .A treasure chest of memories . READERS Tell us stories!

We want you to look back, reflect, recollect, and share your photos and memories with us.

This is not a contest - it is your moment to share with our readers anything from days gone by. The older the story (and photo), the more fascinating. Could be from 20 years ago, 50 years, or a story your grandfather shared with you.

Send Saddle Up one or two photos and your memoirs (up to 250 words maximum please). Memoirs will be printed as space allows each month. Please include your phone number and location for our files and verification if needed. We would like to print your name (or initials) and location with your submission. You are welcome to send one or more in the months ahead as well. This will be a regular monthly feature... So start looking through those photo albums and share your stories with us. Photos will only be returned if you provide a self-addressed stamped envelope. See page 4 for contact information.

Did You Know… ?

In the dark, dogs use their whiskers to pick up subtle changes in the air currents. This gives them a better understanding of the environment and helps them “see” better in the dark.

A dog’s nose is always wet because they help in absorbing certain scents. Furthermore, a dog will lick the nose to taste the scent.

A dog can sense the earth’s magnetic field. It’s a big reason they’re so effective at finding their way home.

When dogs poop, they align themselves with the earth’s magnetic field. Specifically, with the north-south axis.

It’s estimated that roughly 21% of all dogs snore in their sleep.

Tip of the Month - Swimming and Sprinkler Danger For Dogs? Who Knew?

(Courtesy of Harmony Farm Kennel & Lamb)

Does your dog love to jump and bite at the water hose or sprinkler? Is your dog possessed with biting at balls or sticks while swimming?

Some dogs are very driven to attacking water from a spray source while others 'fish' for anything while swimming and diving. Most people think it's hilarious to encourage water fun for the dog and think it's a safe way for a dog to get cool and refreshed - how can that be dangerous? Many dogs, however, are actually anxious, afraid, stressed and often seen trying to aggressively attack the water out of habitual patterns, whilst struggling and panicking for air as they take in copious amounts of fluid. What is even more important to realize is the possible real danger of having water quickly gulped down the wrong pipe and literally drown your dog!

It only takes one teaspoon of inhaled water for a dog to drown as the result of water getting trapped in the lungs. Your dog can inhale the water from the hose or the lake while swimming and potentially develop aspiration pneumonia. Depending on the level of bacteria in the source of the water, this condition can erupt with infection and get complicated to treat. Another sudden emergency to watch for is a condition called 'dry drowning,' caused when excess water is quickly forced into the lungs not allowing air to pass. A dog with this condition can literally drown within minutes, hours or even days.

Affects to watch for are: stumbling, taking a wide stance on the front legs while choking, coughing, drooling, shaking, vomiting, taking slow dazed movements. They may show difficulty breathing, open mouth panting, rapid heart rate, skin and gums change either pale or purple – all of these are symptoms of grave concern and if extreme or ongoing, are clear causes to contact your vet quickly.

Dogs in respiratory distress must be cooled quickly or else they really can suffocate. The best thing to do is to take them to a quiet shady place or somewhere with air conditioning and make them lie down. This could be difficult as your dog could begin to panic as breathing becomes harder. Be sure to remain calm so you don’t stress out your dog and make the situation worse.

If your dog's breathing returns to normal it is still a good idea to schedule an appointment with your vet for any after effects of its respiratory distress. Alternatively, if your dog's breathing continues to

labour after a reasonable amount of rest time, you should take it to a veterinarian or emergency animal hospital to be treated. So... short version... the next time your dog goes goofy trying to attack the hose or bite at the water spray, put your thumb over the hose end and just spray their body gently, play chase the spray, rather than allow them to gulp and ingest the actual water directly. For the avid swimmer dogs, be sure to use floating objects and don't encourage them to dive. Give them more breaks from swimming than some dogs would prefer to keep them from getting fatigued or breathing with desperation amidst all their excitement. Other than those guidelines, I wish you and your dogs a wonderful and safe refreshing summer!

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)

The normal temperature of a dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which would be “fever temperature” for humans.

A private chef prepared a tenderloin steak for Rin Tin Tin every day for lunch. Every meal was accompanied by a live classical music performance to help the dog digest the steak.

Residents of Oklahoma can be fined for making “ugly faces” at dogs. However, it is completely legal to make these faces at other humans.

TOP DOG! OF THE MONTH

This is Morris, our 6-year-old Golden Doodle! He loves going for long hikes and mountain bike rides. He also loves to go to the barn and loves the other barn dogs. We got him on Valentine's Day 2017, when he was only 12 weeks old. We love Morris!

- From Juliet, age 11, Victoria, 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.

Do you have a WORKING DOG event coming up?

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

Pet Central

EVERYTHING PETS (Princeton BC) 250-295-7381

Quality Foods & Supplies for all your Pets! See us on Facebook. 10/23

HARMONY FARM KENNEL AND LAMB.com, Monte Lake BC, 250-375-2528. “Custom Care” boarding welcomes ALL dogs! 12/23

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

Canine Capers

SPONSORED BY

Your one-stoP Pet shoP

Farm, Fencing & Horse Supplies

Pet and Livestock Feeds

604-894-6740

Pemberton BC

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

AUGUST

3 CKC EARTHDOG TESTS, Red Deer County AB

OBEDIENCE/RALLY/SCENT HURDLING TRIALS, Calgary AB

SEPTEMBER

Cowley AB

1-4 SHOWS, OBEDIENCE & RALLY TRIALS, Summerland BC

2-3 CKC RETRIEVER HUNT TEST, Black Creek BC 2-3 CKC SCENT DETECTION TRIALS, Fort Langley BC

2-3 CKC LURE FIELD TRIALS & CONFORMATION, Sherwood Park AB

2-4 CKC SPANIEL FIELD TRIAL, Milo AB

3 AGSA 220 YARD STRAIGHT RACE for all Sighthounds, Okotoks AB

7-9 CKC SPANIEL FIELD TRIALS, Vermillion AB

Horse Council BC - Notes from the Office

Hooves, Heels, Wheels and Woofs Pilot Project

This event took place in Powell River on June 17th with the goal of educating different user groups on how to pass horses safely on the trails and for horseback riders to get their horses comfortable around other trail users.

The day started with a horse behaviour demo followed by four horse habituation clinics led by our trainers Maxine Betts and Milan Jackson.

The horses were introduced to quads, dog walkers, mountain bikes, backpackers and dirt bikes. Fourteen horses and over fifteen volunteers attended this day and a variety of people wandered over from the Farmers’ Market to catch a glimpse of the action.

As this was a pilot project, Horse Council BC is exploring next steps on how to proceed with this program. If you are interested in seeing this type of event in your community please reach out to recreation@ hcbc.ca.

BC SUMMER GAMES 2024 - The Road to Maple Ridge starts Now!

The 2024 BC Summer Games will be held at the Maple Ridge EquiSports Centre on July 18-21, 2024.

Make it your goal and part of your yearly training plan to set your sights at competing at the BC Summer Games! New Technical Packages and Qualifying Criteria Available Now!

Please read carefully, some information has changed from previous years!

Available here: https://hcbc.ca/competitions/bc-summer-games/ Discipline Specific Competition Results Submission forms are also available on the website now.

Equestrian Canada Equestre, equestrian.ca

Support the Canadian Dressage Team today to help get them to Santiago and beyond!

Equestrian Canada (EC) Dressage volunteer hopes to inspire the community to help send a Canadian team to the 2023 Pan American Games and support them on the way to Paris 2024.

Let’s send a Dressage team to Santiago! The EC High Performance Advisory Group (HPAG), Dressage, is thrilled to announce a fundraising campaign that aims to get a team to the Pan American Games this October. In addition to $25,000 already committed from several dedicated donors, Dressage Committee chair Wendy Christoff’s Family Foundation has committed a matching donation of $20,000 for new donations raised towards the urgent appeal of $60,000 needed to get to Santiago.

When it became known to the Dressage Committee and the HPAG that funds were needed, they immediately stepped into action. Due to their unwavering dedication to dressage in Canada, as well as an understanding of the financial constraints facing sport in our country, they began seeking support. Now, they’re asking the community to join their cause.

“I want to see the Canadian team at international competitions, and I know others do too,” Christoff said. “As a group of dedicated volunteers, we believe in our athletes and our program. I want to encourage everyone who can to join me with matching dollars to boost the campaign,” she continued. “To send our athletes to the Pan American Games in Chile, we need to raise sixty thousand dollars. If our community can match the twenty, we’ll be there!”

Although EC spends 34% of its annual budget on high-performance programs and athlete support, there simply is not enough funding to cover all athlete and horse costs to campaign at the international level, such as horse transport and travel. EC’s total Dressage budget for the Pan Am Games is $332,500 of which $272,500 is funded. Without closing this current funding gap, Canada will be unable to send a full

team to the Games. The Pan Ams are important as they also provide an opportunity for Canada to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The Pan American Games are a continental multi-sport event in the Americas featuring summer sports, in which thousands of athletes participate in a variety of competitions. The competition is held among athletes from nations of the Americas, every four years in the year before the Summer Olympic Games.

Equestrian has been part of the Pan American Games since 1951, and Canadian dressage has been on the podium every year dating back to 1987, including most recently, a team silver (Brittany Fraser, Chris von Martels, Belinda Trussell and Megan Lane) medal on home soil in 2015 in Toronto, ON, and team gold (Jill Irving, Tina Irwin, Lindsay Kellock and Naïma Moreira-Laliberté) in 2019 in Lima, Peru.

Donations up to the $60,000 initial goal will go towards sending a Canadian dressage team to Santiago, Chile from Oct. 20 – Nov. 5. Any additional funds raised over and above that goal will be put towards the team’s Olympic pursuits for Paris 2024.

“We are so thankful to the HPAG and our Dressage Committee for stepping up to meet this challenge and we believe the community will join them,” said Christine Peters, Senior Manager, Dressage Olympic/ Paralympic Program. “We are grateful for Wendy’s leadership, for the generosity of the donors who’ve already come forward and for those who are considering donating to the campaign. With increasing financial pressures, sadly it means there remains a funding shortfall across all national sports where everyone is having to do more with less due to economic and environmental factors out of their control.”

“The need for additional funding is critical for the future success of Canadian Dressage athletes and the team,” said Christoff. “We appreciate everyone’s support and active engagement in this essential fundraising initiative.”

There are many ways to donate including online, in person or contacting Christine Peters directly at cpeters@equestrian.ca. Secure donations can be made through the website.

The ultimate goal is to get Canada back on the podium! The maple leaf’s last appearance was when the team of Jill Irving, Tina Irwin, Lindsay Kellock and Naïma Moreira-Laliberté won gold at the 2019 Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru.

Photo Credit: Cealy Tetley

Alberta Equestrian Federation, www.albertaequestrian.com

Trail Safety Days

AEF’s first Trail Safety Day for multi-use trails was on July 15 in Canmore, Alta. Those in the area were invited to come out, share information and provide support for safe trail use and etiquette.

The Canmore event was the first of three Trail Safety Days planned this summer in AEF’s Share the Trails program. The day was a collaboration between AEF and the Bow Valley Riding Association, Canmore and Area Mountain Biking Association (CAMBA), Alpine Club of Canada, Ski Uphill, and Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association.

Trail Safety Days are part of three trail use projects currently underway to promote responsible and sustainable trail use, unite equestrian trail groups, and educate equestrian and non-equestrian

trail users on safely sharing public and multi-use trails.

To promote safety for all users of multiuse trails, AEF has put up numerous trail signs encouraging bikers and hikers to watch for and yield to horses. If you know of a trail that would benefit from this signage, please contact competitions@ albertaequestrian.com.

Watch for a conference coming in September to initiate collaboration between equestrian trail user groups, discussing trail use and planning. Those interested in participating are encouraged to contact AEF.

For more information on the AEF trail use initiatives program, or if you’re interested in assisting, please contact competitons@ albertaequestrian.com.

New EC NCCP Coaches - Congratulations on your certification!

Four Equestrian Canada (EC) National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) coaches/instructors have been certified so far in 2023. These educators have met the rigorous requirements needed to help others progress in equestrian sport.

Says Jessa, “Each person holds so much power within themselves, and being able to help them see their potential is what drives me as a coach. When you complete the coaching certification you are investing in yourself. You come out with valuable skills and you understand how to work with each client.”

Ty currently operates Kueber Farms Show Jumping – a hunter/ jumper breeding and training operation based out of Edmonton. Ty began riding at the age of eight, and throughout the years has attained diverse experience working for top sales barns in Canada and overseas in addition to grooming at the CSI 5* level. Ty is a lifelong student of the sport and has been exposed to some of the best show jumping trainers globally. Ty has a passion of blending this knowledge of equine care and management with equitation and dressage fundamentals to deliver an inclusive, well-rounded program to produce well educated riders and young horses. The EC NCCP coaching program enabled Ty to formalize his educator roll in introducing novice riders to upper level competitions.

I am an NCCP certified coach, born and raised in Edmonton. I have competed to the Grand Prix level and found more love for the sport in my coaching. I have a bachelor’s degree in commerce, specializing in small business and entrepreneurship. I strive to create a positive and confident environment for my clients, where they can learn and grow with incredible horsemanship as well as being talented, technical competitors. I believe the certification program is important to keep regulation and safety in our sport. This program will make a positive impact on my coaching to benefit my clients as well as equestrian sport in general.

I absolutely love working with horses and I love teaching. Walking beside a horse and rider combination and seeing the different interactions between the two is such an experience. I learn from these horses every day. Watching riders make the connection with new information or corrections and seeing them excel is an incredible blessing. Working with horses each day is beyond a dream come true for me! I believe as a coach it is my responsibility to show that I value structured education and continued education for the safety and integrity of the sport. I am coaching mainly out of Red Deer but I also travel to do specialized equestrian fitness and equine wellness programs.

Jessa Arnold – Western Instructor, Calgary

Tara Kennedy – English Competition Coach, Edmonton

Amy Mawson – English Instructor, Red Deer

Tyler Kueber - English Competition Coach, Edmonton

Kelowna Riding Club Update

June was a busy month at the KRC!

On June 3rd and 4th, a driving clinic was held at the club with Larry Brinker. Ten participants had the opportunity to learn from Larry, and included a pair of mini mules, a tandem of Friesians and a variety of other equines. A potluck was hosted on Saturday and the group enjoyed some great weather. Organizers are hoping to plan more clinics next year for all levels and abilities. If you’d like to try driving, please reach out to the club!

Following the clinic, volunteers began prepping the grounds for the Dressage Festival on June 10th and 11th. The show sold out and welcomed riders from around BC. Riders received some great feedback from judge Brenda Minor.

Brenda is a FEI 4* Dressage judge, FEI Young Horse Dressage judge, a USEF Senior Dressage judge, an Equine Canada Senior Dressage judge, and A certified Level 2 coach.

The Gold and Bronze sanctioned event saw some great tests from local professionals, adult amateurs, and young riders alike.

Kelowna based Bresing Farms celebrated Annabelle’s win of the Rising Star Equitation Division with a score of 88%, while Ruby received the highest junior test score of 69%.

A special thank you to the show’s sponsors: Lau’s Equine, SaddleFit Canada, Quality Air Care, AuthenTech Homes, BAHR Saddlery, and Creekside Massage Therapy.

 By Ashton Shura

Bresing Farm riders, Annabelle (left) and Ruby

Kathrin Maxwell

Riders and volunteers enjoying wine on Saturday after the competition

Canadian Cowboy Challenge

Ihope all is going well for all with the spring and early summer riding programs. The CCC has had two double header Challenges, one in Saskatchewan on June 17 and 18 and one in Alberta on June 24 and 25.

The Halcyonia Double Header in Saskatchewan was judged by Melissa Zarubiak and she judged both days. Results for June 17: Shootin Sprouts (SS): there were no entries. Youth (Y): 1-Ella Wall riding Tuff; and 2-Laikyn Thomas riding Dusty. Older Than Dirt (OTD): 1-Louise Saunders riding Dancer.

Novice (N): 1-Wanda Marie Semeniukn riding Jackson. Rookie (R):

1-Lucy Davey riding Dancer and 2-Ella Wall riding Tuff. NonPro (NP):

1-Elaine Molnar riding Spice; and 2-Shelly Jackson riding Jewel. Open

(O): 1-Elaine Molnar riding Spice and 2-Sabra Roth riding Sunny. Buckin Crazies (BC): 1-Breanna Sikorski riding Banner; and 2-Breanna Sikorsky riding HIERO. Results for June 18: Y: 1-Ella Wall riding Tuff; and 2-Colter Cabin riding SHAW. OTD: 1-Louise Saunders riding Dancer. N: 1-Wanda Marie Semeniuk riding Jackson. R: 1-Lucy Davey riding Dancer; and 2-Ella Wall riding Tuff. NP: 1-Elaine Molar riding Spice; and 2-Shelly Johnson riding Jewel. O: 1-Shelly Johnson riding Jewel; and 2-Sabra Roth riding Sunny. BC: 1-Breanna Sikorski riding HIERO; and 2-Breanna Sikorski riding Banner.

The Pine Rock Ventures Double Header in Alberta on June 24 was judged by Hans Kollewyn. Results for June 24: SS: 1-Bailey Black riding Jazzy; and 2-Bailey Black riding Gold. Y: there were no entries. OTD: 1-Alana Eaton riding George; and 2-Greg Paranich riding Milo. N: 1-Shelly Knott riding Jasie; and 2-Bailey Black riding Jazzy. R: 1-Melissa Deveau riding Elly; and 2-Jennifer Frogley riding Charm. NP: 1-Koren LeVoir riding Shadow; and 2-Denton Keith riding Nash. O: 1-Janet Goltz riding Mr Red Pines; and 2-Al Bignell riding Jesse. BC: 1-Denton Keith riding Louis; and 2-Koren Levoir riding Mischief.

June 25 was judged by Janet Goltz and the results are: SS: 1-Bailey Black riding Jazzy; and 2-Bailey Black riding Gold. OTD: 1-Alana Eaton riding George; and 2-Greg Paranich riding Milo. N: 1-Shelly Knott riding Jose; and 2-Bailey Black riding Jazzy. R: 1-Adrien Deveau riding Legacy; and 2-Eric Frogley riding Archie. NP: 1-April Hall riding Bo; and 2-Karen LeVoir riding Shadow. O: 1-Alana Eaton riding George; and 2-Al Bignell riding Jesse. BC: 1-Denton Keith riding Louis; and 2-Koren LeVoir riding Mischief.

The Pine Rock Double Header was judged by two different judges as we were able to accommodate two scribes each day to meet their required element of scribing two Challenges under two different judges in the process for their judging certification. The first element was the class room and written test held on May 13 and 14. The two scribes now must complete their junior judge’s element to complete the process. The CCC board will then review the results of all four elements to determine if a judging certificate will be issued.

This Challenge season is exciting as we hope that the interest and challenge of the CCC will lead to growth and interest for the organization. The CCC has a great Challenge season lined up and we are already in the process of planning the year-end finals and banquet.

Until next month, keep on riding and enjoy the experience.

 Story and Photos By Hans Kollewyn

April & Bender going through the brush curtain in the NonPro division

Angela riding her Buckin Crazy horse Tilley through the water box.

Photo by Raylee Black

Koren and her Buckin Crazy horse Mischief over the arch bridge.

Photo by Raylee Black

Bailey riding Gold doing a barrel pattern in the Shootin Sprouts division

Vintage Riders… for the love of horses!

Summer is upon us and there is so much to tell you about! But first, a tip from Susan - go outside and check your trailer for wasp nests before you load up for that next ride! ‘Tis the season!

The only thing that never changes is that things are going to change. I had to change barns recently. Where I was, they changed their business direction. So, all the horses and their people had to change their boarding situation and everyday routine. Always unsettling. Here is where Vintage Riders has prepared me to change horse friend families and horsemanship locations.

Like the creative offerings of clinics, rides, lectures and activities our tremendous executive of Vintage Riders cleverly develops for our club month after month. We quickly change to adapt to riding with a different group of horses, listening to a different instructor and finding our comfort spot with a different group of people.

Recent Vintage Riders activities included a group hay ride. This was part of an interesting tour of the Volken Academy which is a bison and water buffalo facility. Set up as a working agricultural model for compromised individuals looking for structure, independence, and training in a new way of life. There is a farm shop there selling water buffalo blue cheese and bison steaks and sausage, among many other products being offered. The farm is an international example of sustainable livestock husbandry with no expense spared; and funded by a philanthropist. Limited tours are open to the public on Saturdays. Educational and thought provoking, it was a privilege to have a look around.

Working Equitation is popular with our group; such an all-around horse activity - dressage and precise obstacles. Courses, competitions and practices can be set up wherever there is a flat bit of ground. Great trust and bonding are built up between horse and rider. This group was at Darrell R’s for instruction.

For many years VREC has supported the horse community with energy and time; collectively and individually helping to maintain the Spirit of the Horse Garden at Campbell Valley Park. There is now a mountain trail course at the park open to all. And, nature being nature,

it becomes overgrown. Common-minded members spent a day in June trimming, raking, digging and getting their garden gloves and the knees of their jeans very dirty. For the benefit of all riders who use the installation, it is now safe, fun and inviting to use. Enjoy.

The June 24th Mountain Trail Clinic at Hanging H Ranch, Ryder Lake, was well-attended and challenging. The weather stayed warm, with some cloud cover for comfort. A good session of learning.

Canada Day was one of those glorious days we dream about all winter. Marj M arranged a club ride at CVP. At the end, many were able to spend time maneuvering through the refurbished trail course. It was social and relaxing for riders and mounts. Once back to the trailers it was rounded off nicely with the traditional treats and chat time.

Many good things are coming up in August, such as the club’s 20th year celebration campout and festivities; also, the 5-day ladies trip to chill out at the Seven Half Diamond Ranch. Karen will cover those in an upcoming issue of Saddle Up magazine.

Always changing, always developing, always learning. Always making small changes that add up to big moves forward. How do you know if the change is right for you? Well, you don’t. But life’s experiences develop a trust in your instincts. Put all that extraneous stuff in boxes to be opened later when more pieces of the puzzle become available. Look at all the doors available to you. Pick the one that is slightly cracked open, with that glint of light shining through. And take the first step.

Wishing you gentle summer breezes and peace of mind.

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 to enjoy fellowship and a speaker, and to host a variety of clinics.

Find us on Facebook at Vintage Riders Equestrian Club – public, email: vintageriders@mail.com

 By Karen Gallagher Photos by various Vintage Riders

Trials of the Trail Safety Tips for Riding in the Back Country

By Jim McCrae, BCHBC co-founder and honorary lifetime member

Tip #2 Chaps, Bras, and the One Minute Club

Chaps. Safety gear for the back country. I don’t feel naked without them on but do feel under dressed when mounting if they are still hanging on a hook. There are many types, my preference happens to be bat wings. Cooler in the hot southern deserts and just all round sexier looking - in my opinion. And I can use all the help I can get. Chaps can save your legs from a wide variety of indignities, abrasions from brush or trees, stallions trying to chew on your saddle horse and munching on your leg instead, kicks can be dampened. Warmer in the cold and drier in the rain. If they match your tapaderos so much the better. Like mine do. Roughed up, scratched, stretched out of shape, and sorely abused. Like me.

I have a concern about chaps though. I often see chaps that have no break link. Mine have a little wang in front holding the two sides together unless enough force is applied to break it.

An example. We were on a ride up in the north looking for some camp meat in Stone Sheep country in the Batt Creek basin. A good mountain horse will refrain from lunging up steep and slippery slopes, but eventually even good horses will lunge. That requires the rider to lean forward - really far forward on steep talus slopes. Grabbing a handful of mane and standing on your toes helps to keep your horse from going over backward though this puts your chap strap right about where your saddle horn is. It’s an easy catch. Getting married to your saddle horn in situations like that on a lunging horse gives one thoughts of future progeny. Not only can it be very uncomfortable, but also very dangerous. Fortunately, the break link on my chaps broke and I was freed from the horn. And sad to say, no camp meat on that mountain.

Bras. Be careful around them! I’ve talked with riders who wear them (I don’t) and have been hooked on the saddle horn while dismounting. Another fellow and I had to grab a lady’s legs and lift her off the horn to release her bra from the horn. I guess we could have unhooked it if it was clasped in the back, but she had a big coat on, and time can be of the essence when a wreck is pending.

The One Minute Club of BCHBC is perhaps not what you think. It’s a FUN club with a packer style initiation. At this year’s packing clinic in Tulameen the standards were set, and membership encouraged. It developed from a desire to acquaint everyone that packing horses and mules in the backcountry need not an onerous activity. It can and should be fun. The concept of getting packed up and out of camp by the ‘crack of noon’ is ok, but definitely optional! We decided to first concentrate on the last step… the pack cinch and pack rope. Throwing a hitch can be a quick and fun pleasure.

The standard for membership in the One Minute Club is to throw 50’ of rope and a cinch on a loaded horse in a minute or less, as an individual. And there needs to be at least one diamond. At our clinic in Tulameen, we had only one qualify, but at RV in Merritt another six joined the exclusive club and proudly wore their prized One Minute Club T-shirts around camp.

So now you know about it! Interested in joining?

Photos by Sheila Sowerby

Jim McCrae welcoming Ron Flaming into The One Minute Club

Steph Tottenham and Amelie Zunk in their coveted T-shirts

There was a constant stream of people throwing a hitch to achieve the illusive 60 seconds mark!

Cole Barker a proud inductee

Alberta Donkey and Mule Club

ARMSTRONG ENDERBY RIDING CLUB S chooling Shows (Eng/West/Games), Armstrong Fairgrounds, April to Sept. www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca 10/23

BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETY, Pleasure, Combined, Recreation from Minis to Drafts, www.bccarriagedriving.com 6/24

BC INTERIOR ARABIAN HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Wally Goertz 250-546-6004 11/23 asmarawg@telus.net, clinics, Recreational riding programs, Awards/Social Activ.

BC INTERIOR MORGAN HORSE CLUB see our FB page. Pres: Bev Routledge email: bcimhcinfo@gmail.com Activities: trail rides, obstacle fun day, barn tour/pot luck. 5/24

BC PAINT HORSE CLUB www.bcphc.com, Open Show & Competition Program, award sponsorships for local clubs, youth scholarship. cathyglover@telus.net 3/24

BC QUARTER HORSE ASSOCATION, bcqha.com Contact Carolyn Farris, email cfarris@telus.net 12/23

BC Team Cattle Penning Association

March 18-19 (Barriere)

May 27-28 (Barriere)

Join us at our 2023 shows! • bctcpa.ca

BC WELSH PONY & COB ASSOC. (see FB) Pres: Rosanne 604-302-7650, bcwelshponyandcob@gmail.com. Breed promotion program throughout the province 4/24

BOUNDARY HORSE ASSOCIATION (Grand Forks BC), Offering shows, gymkhanas, clinics & more. See us on Facebook, 250-443-3191, kmespenhain@telus.net 4/24

Canadian Cowboy Challenge A SPORT for the whole Family!

Seven Divisions to accommodate all! For more info please call 403-828-2044 or visit www.canadiancowboychallenge.com

Clubs & Associations

International Equine Body Workers Association 3/24

IEBWA Members are Certified & Insured… Is your Body Worker?

Equine & Canine Memberships available! www.iebwa.com

EDUCATION. RECREATION. INSPIRATION.

Welcoming a diverse equestrian community by fostering an environment of enjoyment, development, and competition.

Introducing the 2023 Interior Desert Hunter/Jumper Circuit Show Series More details and dates available at kelownaridingclub.ca

3745 Gordon Drive, Kelowna BC 12/23

LANGLEY RIDERS SOCIETY, www.langleyriders.com. English/Western, Games, Jumping, Drill Team, Rodeo. 604-530-5981 11/23

LOWER MAINLAND QUARTER HORSE ASSOC. Pres: Tamara Jameson, tamarajameson@hotmail.com, http://bcqha.com/index.php/LMQHA 12/23

100 Mile & District Outriders

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

7/1811/23 Adam Harvey

NORTHERN SADDLE CLUB, Smithers BC. Check out our website at northernsaddleclub.com and follow us on Facebook 2/24

RUSTY SPURS 4-H HORSE CLUB (Abbotsford BC) Open to Youth 6-19, Rustyspurshorse4h@gmail.com & Find us on Facebook!  12/23

SOUTH CENTRAL QUARTER HORSE ASSOC., Host of April Fuzzy Horse Show and September AQHA Circuit Show, http://bcqha.com/index.php/scqha 12/23

VERNON DISTRICT RIDING CLUB (Vernon BC), check out our website at vernonridingclub.com or visit our Facebook & Instagram pages 2/24

VI MINIATURE HORSE CLUB, vanislemhc@gmail.com, bcminiaturehorseclubs/ vimhc Driving and/or halter shows, clinics & performance competitions 2/24

VINTAGE RIDERS EQUESTRIAN CLUB (Fraser Valley BC), English/Western, lectures, clinics, socials, safe and fun, vintageriders@mail.ca, on Facebook 4/24

WILD ROSE DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION, www.wrdha.com. Barb Stephenson (Secretary) phone 403-933-5765 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm) 6/24

BOOK CORNER

Three Sisters Farm

3 book series

By Genevieve Mckay

Book 1: Everyday Horses

When Serafina’s parents decided to give up everything to raise their kids on a remote homestead on the rugged Canadian west coast, it was supposed to be forever. Life on the homestead might be hard but to Fina, it’s a paradise that she never wants to leave. She knows the mountains and rivers like the back of her hand, and every day she can spend exploring with her horse, Beatrice, is a great one. But, tragedy strikes and the whole family is forced to move to the sprawling, manicured estate of grandparents they’ve never met. And their Grandfather makes it no secret that he doesn’t want any of them there.

The only bright spot is that there are horses everywhere and Fina soon finds herself caught up with the wild, charismatic girls who own the fancy stable next door. But will following her new dreams mean giving up on Beatrice and the family she loves?

Book 2: Odd One Out

The most unlikely friendships are sometimes the strongest. Autism doesn’t stop Kira Anderson from being a top rider at Three Sisters Farm. Horses she understands; it’s people that don’t always make sense. Especially the secretive new groom who has just been hired.

Book 3: Casting Shadows

Sidney Jones is on her own. And desperately trying to make enough money to support her aging dressage horse, Oriel. She hadn’t ever thought she’d end up as a paid companion to a spoiled, rich girl with a chip on her shoulder but that’s what life threw at her.

Available on Amazon.ca in Kindle and Paperback

Kindle $6.84 each

Paperback $16.27 each

4-6 INTERIOR DESERT CIRCUIT Show Series, https://www.kelownaridingclub.ca

4-6 APHA ZONE 10 - ZONE-O-RAMA, Calnash Ag Centre, Ponoka AB, follow us on Facebook at APHA Zone 10 and https://www.albertapainthorseclub.ca

5-6 CCC DOUBLE HEADER, Thorsby Haymakers, Thorsby AB, Melissa Deveau mug sydeveau@gmail.com, www.canadiancowboychallenge.com

5-7 ERABC Quesnel Ride (Heidi Krause & Cambria Volonte), enduranceridersassocofbc. wildapricot.org

11-13 PHAC CANADIAN NAT’L SHOW, Agriplex, Armstrong BC, Deb Cones 403-8609763, deb.cones@gmail.com, www.phac.ca

12 ALL GAITED BREEDS VERSATILITY CHALLENGE, Agriplex, Armstrong BC, Deb Cones 403-860-9763, deb.cones@gmail.com, www.phac.ca

12-13 BCMT BUCKLE SERIES SHOW, Hanging H Arena, Chilliwack BC, e-mail Debbie, hughesqh@telus.net, www.bcmountaintrail.com

13 DRESSAGE TEST PRACTICE DAY (3 of 4), Copper Hills Equestrian Centre, Kamloops BC, Ann Wallin 778-220-7898, http://copperhillsequestrian.ca

17-20 HARCAN Training Camp, Olds AB, www.okkma.ca

18-19 COMPETITIVE TRAIL RIDE (Fun ride, intro distances), Trapping Creek Forest Service Rd., Carmi BC, Ride Manager Myrna 250-317-8347, equiessence@hotmail.com

18-20 RISING STARS JUNIOR YOUNG RIDER SHOW, Maple Ridge BC, www.dressagebc.ca

19 ERABC Trapping Creek CTR, Beaverdell, Intro, Level 1 & 2 (Myrna Thompson), enduranceridersassocofbc.wildapricot.org

19 SCQHA CLINIC (Clinician TBA), Kelowna Riding Club, Kelowna BC, scqhashow@gmail.com, www.bcqha.com

19 BREAKAWAY ROPING SERIES FINAL, JR Arena, Cache Creek BC, www.highcallroping.ca

19 SHOWCASE & OPEN HOUSE, Rocking Heart Ranch, Waterton Lakes AB, 403-894-1005, www.rockingheartranchltd.com

20 SCQHA - THE WINE COUNTRY OPEN SHOW (Judge TBA), Kelowna Riding Club, Kelowna BC, scqhashow@gmail.com, www.bcqha.com

20 BRIDGE LAKE FAIR DRIVING HORSE SHOW (10am-4pm), Interlakes Rodeo Grounds, Lone Butte BC, contact Jaime Cameron legilmyth@hotmail.com or 250-457-2200

22-26 55+ BC GAMES, Abbotsford BC; Equestrian at Maple Ridge Equi-Sports Centre, www.55plusbcgames.org

23 – Sept 3 PACIFIC SPIRIT HORSE SHOW at the PNE, Vancouver BC, 604-252-3581, www.pne.ca

25-27 BC DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS, Gold, Southlands Riding Club, Vancouver BC, www.dressagebc.ca

28-30 SARAH SOUTHWELL CLINIC (The Art of Classical French Riding), Horsefly BC, 250-620-3325, blackcreekranch3@gmail.com

30-Sept 3 INTERIOR PROVINCIAL EXHIBITION (IPE) Armstrong BC, www.armstrongipe.com

SEPTEMBER

1-2 NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP w/Glenn Stewart, Stage 1, Smithers BC, contact Anika 250-846-5494 or anika.gattiker@outlook.com

1-3 ISLAND 22 HORSE TRIALS, Chilliwack BC, email Janice: go_event@smartt.email, www.island22horsepark.com

2-3 APHC FALL CLASSIC, Red Deer Westerner, Red Deer AB, follow us on Facebook and https://www.albertapainthorseclub.ca

2-3 ERABC Highland Valley, Logan Lake (Stephany Dean & Kari Bishop), endurancerid ersassocofbc.wildapricot.org

2-4 NORTH THOMPSON FALL FAIR & BCRA RODEO, Barriere BC, www.fallfair-rodeo.com

3-4 NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP w/Glenn Stewart, Advanced Workshop, Smithers BC, contact Anika 250-846-5494 or anika.gattiker@outlook.com

8-10 ERABC Titanium Run, Hudson Hope (Tara MacLeod), enduranceridersassocofbc.wildapricot.org

8-10 SALMON ARM FALL FAIR, Salmon Arm BC, https://salmonarmfair.ca

9-10 BCMT CHAMPIONSHIPS, Circle Creek, Kamloops BC, e-mail Colleen circlecreek@telus.net, www.bcmountaintrail.com

11-17 LEARN EQUINE MASSAGE! Calgary (Priddis) AB, Certification Course Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT, CCF, https://www.equinerehab.ca

14-17 HOOF TRIMMING CLINIC, Algrove SK, 204-771-5335, https://www.hoofgeeks.ca

16-17 RANCH HORSE REVOLUTION SHOW, Armstrong BC, more info on Facebook page or email ranchhorserevolution@gmail.com

16-17 ROCK CREEK FALL FAIR, Rock Creek BC, www.rockcreekfallfair.ca

22 MILES KINGDON Demo & Workshop, North Thompson Fall Fair Rodeo Grounds, Barriere BC, info Jasmine jazzbedford@gmail.com

22-24 85TH PROVINCIAL WINTER FAIR, 4-H & Open Horse Show, Circle Creek Ranch, Kamloops BC, www.provincialwinterfair.com

22-24 SKILLS OF THE OUTFITS, Clinic, Stockhorse Showcase & Competition, North Thompson Fall Fair Rodeo Grounds, Barriere BC, info Jasmine jazzbedford@gmail.com

22-25 BC AG EXPO, 4-H, Live Auction Monday, North Thompson Agriplex, Barriere BC, www.bcagexpo.ca

23 ERABC Timber Ridge, 25, possible 50, (Bianca MacKenzie), enduranceridersassocofbc.wildapricot.org

24 DRESSAGE TEST PRACTICE DAY (4 of 4), Copper Hills Equestrian Centre, Kamloops BC, Ann Wallin 778-220-7898, http://copperhillsequestrian.ca

24 AERC HORSE SHOW, 9 am, Agriplex, Armstrong BC, AERCcanada@gmail.com, www.armstrongenderbyridingclub.ca

25-Oct 27 6 WEEK ADVANCED EQUINE MASSAGE THERAPY Certification Course, Edmonton AB, Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT, CCF, https://www.equinerehab.ca

29-30 FALL HORSE SALE, Perlich Bros. Auction Market, Lethbridge AB, 403-329-3101, www.perlich.auction

29-Oct 1 INTERIOR DESERT CIRCUIT Show Series, https://www.kelownaridingclub.ca

29-Oct 1  PACIFIC REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, Gold/Bronze, Thunderbird Show Park, Langley BC, www.dressagebc.ca

30-Oct 1 HARCAN Turkey Shoot Year-end Grading Competition & fun event, www.okkma.ca

30-Oct 2 CEHCA CONFERENCE (The Evolution in Whole-Horse Soundness), Delta Hotel, Regina SK, https://canadianequinehoofcare.com

OCTOBER

15 VIMHC AGM, vanislemhc@gmail.com, www.bcminiaturehorseclubs/vimhc

19-22 HOOF TRIMMING CLINIC, Saskatoon SK, 204-771-5335, https://www.hoofgeeks.ca

NOVEMBER

6-Dec 15 GUELPH ON, 6 week advanced Equine Massage Therapy Certification Course Sidonia McIntyre, RMT, CEMT, CCF, https://www.equinerehab.ca

17 HORSEY LADIES OKANAGAN Fundraising Banquet, now in Vernon BC, location TBA, Nancy 250-546-9922 or nancyroman@telus.net

19 VIMHC Awards Banquet, vanislemhc@gmail.com, www.bcminiaturehorseclubs/ vimhc

REALTORS

BC’s Leader in Agricultural Real Estate bcfarmandranch.com

604-852-1180 • info@bcfarmandranch.com

TACK/CLOTHING SHOPS

DIAMOND H TACK INC. (Kelowna BC) 877-762-5631 English & Western Saddlery, Clothes, Farrier, Feed, Blanket & Leather Repairs 10/23

TRAILER REPAIRS

PETERSEN TRAILERS LTD. (Langley) 604-533-4209 Service and Repairs. All makes www.petersentrailers.ca 7/24

Business Services

TRAILER SALES

KITT EQUIPMENT TRAILER SALES, (Chilliwack & Aldergrove), 1-877-8237199, Horse ~ Stock ~ Utility ~ Dump ~ Flatdecks, Kittequipment.com 4/24

TRAINERS/COACHES

CANADIANEQUESTRIANARTSACADEMY.COM,

LEE PONCELET TRAINING STABLES (Vernon, BC) 250-938-2034 Starting Colts. Training all levels. Specializing in Cutting/Cowhorse. lpperformancehorses.com 8 /23

SANDY LANG HORSEMANSHIP (Abbotsford BC) 778-344-3804, Foundation Focus Working Equitation, Natural Horsemanship, sandylanghorsemanship.com 9/23