When my husband and I started Saddle Up! Magazine in August of 1996 it was a labor of love. We adored horses, and had already been publishing a magazine successfully, so we said why not? We have the devotion, the drive and the knowledge, so Saddle Up! Magazine was created.
Bill and I have been publishing Saddle Up! Magazine for almost 28 years and we’ve loved the challenge, the subject matter, of course, and the friendships we’ve made along the way. It’s now time that we retire from publishing and move our lives in a new direction.
We are excited to announce that the new owners of Saddle Up! Magazine will be a partnership between Jennifer Peck of Elsie, MI and Sasha Glover of Okemos, MI. This new dynamic duo will bring a larger online presence and more social media engagement for the magazine. Bill and I are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Jen and Sasha when they take the reins of Saddle Up! Magazine.
We are so very grateful to have known you and will cherish the memories we have. Thank you for your patronage over the years, Cindy and Bill Couturier.
SADDLE UP! MAGAZINE DIRECTORY
70 acres, custom built 1800+ sq. ft. ranch home, new in 2023. Open concept living space, gas FP , granite countertops, all kitchen appliances stay, primary en-suite, whole house generator, oversized garage, walkout basement, deck and patio. Lower level could be completed for 2nd living space. Airplane hanger offers a 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartment w/laundry. Hanger has 220 watt, geothermal heat, large deck and spacious garage. Horse barn (68x96), indoor arena (68x170), 8 stalls (4 w/rubber mat oors), tack room, water, electric, hay storage. Barn and hanger new roofs (2023). 2 nice size pastures w/2 run-ins, fencing. Home is being sold with 2 parcel ID#'s. Livingston Co./Fowlerville Schools. Located between Ann Arbor and Lansing, MI.
60x60 airplane hanger with active FAA registered grass airstrip on the property (FAA Identier: 46MI Rotors and Wings) is 2,400' x 100'. MI House and Farm
RETAIL
Phone: 517-881-3622
Email: gailqmoon@gmail.com
Website: johnson-gail.bemergroup.com
Sales, Demos &
Each month, we hide a small image of Ayla within the pages of Saddle Up! Magazine. When you find her, mail us a letter or email us with the page that you “spotted” her on and you will be entered in our random drawing!
Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com
Address: 5303 East Ridge Rd., Elsie, MI 48831
Deadline: The 20th of the current month
Contest for ages 16 & under only. Include your age and address so we can mail your winnings, if you win.
CONTEST WINNER
Ayla is a spotted Leopard Appaloosa mare. Can you find her within this issue of Saddle Up! Magazine? Daniel B. from Gladwin, Michigan
South Lyon, Michigan
Limited spaces have become available for Stall or Pasture. We will keep less than 10 boarders to insure dedicated care and a pleasant atmosphere. Indoor arena (120’x60’), outdoor arena (150’x70’), 60’ round pen, some trails, trailer parking (no charge).
STALLS are 12’x10’ with rubber mats and 10’x18’ run out paddocks, hanging nibble bets. Stalls are cleaned 2xs daily, turnout pastures cleaned daily. Daily blanket changes am and pm are included, along with masks and fly spray in summer. $1,200/month.
PASTURE has 2-3 horses with run-ins, feeding stalls, hanging nibble nets. Turnout on grass daily, fly spray as needed, masks on/off as requested. Blanket changes extra. $585/month plus $100 month feed 1x daily, $200 month feed 2x daily.
H
HORSE ASSOCIATION &
Join us monthly, bi-monthly or as needed. There is no cost to your group and we’ll always have a spot waiting for you!
Word Limit: 600 words Deadline: 16th for following issue. Email: saddleupmag@gmail.com
First time submission? Please include logo, email, website, and social media page. A Word document, PDF or within the body of your email will work great.
We produce two issues of Saddle Up! Magazine each month; one that is printed and one in a digital format for our online readers. Non-profit groups can receive one full page, full color ad in our online edition FREE of charge. We ask one thing in exchange... share the issue link that your ad appears in to your social media page(s). We will email you the link once it’s created.
Limit one ad per month, per non-profit equine group. Ad format: PDF or jpg.
Hunter/Jumper Trainer ~ Erin Hughes
By Cindy Johnson | Email: cjquimby@gmail.com
Choosing a career in horses might stem from early exposure. Erin Hughes said, “I was riding before I even remember My mom had me on horses with her when I was a baby.”
Erin's mom rode for pleasure, but she exposed all four of her girls to the competitive horse world, not realizing how far one of them would go.
When Erin was young, her family had a small hobby farm in Cincinnati, Ohio. All the kids had opportunities to ride and show ponies in the “A” Circuit competitions and occasional Pony Club functions. As the girls got older, gymnastics captured the interest of her two youngest siblings, while her oldest sister had always been passionate about dance. Erin said, “I had more of the horse bug, although I did some sports in school.”
At the age of 6, Erin started taking lessons on a medium-sized Welsh pony named Baylou at Uphill Farm training under the direction of Maryann Murphy and Anne Thornberry As Erin's involvement grew, her parents supported her horse love. Erin's mother kept a note that Erin had written to her dad. It read, “Dad, I love you. Please, I want a horse.” That hope turned out to be her school pony Baylou, a Welsh pony who had packed Erin around the arenas at horse shows. Erin said, “She was feisty and knew how to pull one over on me, if I wasn't paying attention.” At one show, she took off and jumped all the stacked poles in the center of the arena, raced to the railing, abruptly stopped and dumped Erin. Erin said, “I was terrified, but everybody started clapping. That was my first exposure to jumping.” As she got more serious about riding, Erin took lessons in hunter/jumper classes and at the age of 6, she began competing.
Erin's next pony was a bit larger being a cross between a Welsh pony and an Arabian. Silver Fox (Dusty) also proved to be a challenge. Erin said, “Dusty hated me. She dumped me all the time. She was a snarky, little gray mare. She would stop on occasion at the jumps. The worst time was when she dumped me at the Camargo Pony Trials in Cincinnati. She left the arena and took off on the adjoining trails. We looked for her for hours before we decided to go home and return later. We found her at home in our backyard fully tacked miles away from the show grounds.”
Erin said, “My next Welsh pony came from New Jersey. When I was 9, I flew (first time on a plane) with my trainer, Frank Conway, to look at a pony We were told she was 7, and I thought she was pretty. I didn't know much about buying horses, and we later found out that she (Chesapeake) was only 4. She taught me a lot. If I asked her to canter, she would bite my foot, if I didn't carry a riding crop.”
Pony jumpers were just starting to become popular as a newer division of the “A” shows. Erin's mom insisted that she learn all of the Pony Club requirements, if she was going to continue riding. The United States Pony Club is an organization designed to help young riders learn all aspects of care for their equine partners.
At the age of 13, Erin got her first horse named Lily, a half Trakehner/Appendix cross. Erin said, “We went on to become a great team and qualified as one of the top horse/rider combinations in Area 8 at the preliminary level in 3-day Eventing. Lily did everything I asked of her whether it was Hunter/Jumper classes, Pony Club rallies, or 3- day events.”
Erin said, “In 1997, at the age of 18, I was a graduate of Pony Club through level A, although I had to take the A test twice, the second time on a borrowed horse, as the horse I intended to ride was injured. At that time, riders couldn't specialize between cross country, dressage, or stadium jumping, and we had to do them all.”
Erin graduated from high school in 1997 and decided to take a year off from horses. She said, “I chose a college where I was not going to be on a riding team, as I had done it so much my whole life. I had to make sure I was doing it because I still wanted to do it.” She enrolled in Depauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. It took a year of general studies before Erin made the move back to horses. She got a full-time job as a working student with German trainer Wilhelm Genn at Rheinland Farm near Cincinnati. Erin had met Wilhelm through her trainer Michelle Chappelear Erin said, “I worked for Wilhelm from 1998-2005. My last horse show with him was the Hampton Classic in Bridgehampton, NY. I did everything, including being the show groom on the road.” She worked with young horses and was an integral part of the business. She rode, taught, trained and even helped evaluate videos of prospective horse purchases that Wilhelm brought back from Germany
With her vast experience, in 2001, Erin changed her status from amateur to professional. As Wilhelm's 2 sons were becoming more involved in the family business, Erin felt it was time to move on to new opportunities. In 2005, she accepted a position as trainer for Solitude Farm in Kalamazoo, Michigan, owned by Debbie Seelye. She was their trainer from November of 2005 through June of 2007. Erin said, “I competed in my first Grand Prix on a horse named Solitude Farm's Tahoe at the Hits Ocala show in Florida in 2007.
Another change came for Erin when she met her future husband Chris Hughes, in May of 2010. Chris is a Michigan native who
Erin and her son Charlie and Eos M owned by Hilary Riffe
was a graduate of Gull Lake High School. The couple were married in August of 2013. Chris owns J&J Locksmiths in Kalamazoo. They have one son, Charlie, who is 7. Erin said, “They are my biggest fans and offer me constant support.” Her husband is not a 'horsey person' but is very supportive and helps her drive her horses to Florida. Erin said, “The night my husband was going to propose to me, we spent the night in the ICU, with me having a suspected brain bleed. At our wedding, my brotherin-law gave me some Velcro as a wedding present to help me stay on the horses.”
During that time, one of Erin's clients Kathleen McGarry was thinking of building a barn and invited Erin to consider a position as trainer in her new facility when it was completed. Erin accepted the position and trained, taught, and rode at Captivate Farm in Schoolcraft, Michigan from 2007-2019.
While at Captivate, Erin said, “We had many successful horses. The most notable was VDL Umilion H that we purchased as a 6year-old for an investment. We earned the title of Reserve Champion in Zone 5 for the 7-year-old jumpers in 2008, then completed and placed in his first Grand Prix that same year, going onto many more successful Grand Prix competitions.”
Another Captivate horse, Air Guitar qualified for the 6 and 7-yearold young jumpers as well as earning many top placings in Futures Prixs and Welcomes Prixs.
In February of 2021, Erin made another major decision which was to start her own business called 'Erin Hughes Equestrian LLC.' She continues teaching, training, and riding for her clients that now number 28 located at 3 different stables. Erin said, “I travel to Pine Meadow Farms, Jenna Normans, and Captivate Farms.” Her clientele range in age from 13 to the oldest being in her 70's.
Erin has never stopped competing but has not had a top-level mount in 10 years. The Grand Prix challenge is still a goal, but she said, “My husband said it's nice not to get a phone call informing him I had fallen off a horse. My nerves changed when my son was born in 2016. I'm more cautious and don't get on the really dangerous horses anymore. I used to fix the ones that nobody wanted to fix. Now, I don't want to make any stupid decisions.”
Getting to the level that Erin has achieved takes an enormous amount of work and dedication. The trip is not singular, and Erin said, “These individuals played a great part in helping me accomplish my goals. I pay special tribute to Mindy Darst, Frank Conway, Donna Gorrian, Wilhelm Genn, Maryann Murphy, Anne Thornberry, and Michelle Chappelear for all this guidance and support throughout my journey.”
Erin said, “Horses are in my blood. For now, I want to continue to keep my clients. I love to help them meet their personal goals. For me, as a trainer, there's nothing more enjoyable than to help a horse and rider make it.”
About the author: Cindy Johnson has been a horse owner since she was 13 years old. She is also a freelance writer If you wish to have an article written about your equine pursuits, please email her at: cjquimby@gmail.com
Erin Hughes Equestrian EHughesEQ@gmail.com
Erin and her father on the family farm in Cincinnati, Ohio
Entry booth opens at 8:00 a.m. Show starts at 9:00 a.m.
$5.00 per class | Judge: TBD Rider age is day of show. 4-H rules for patterns and general guidelines. Any cancer cure support shirt can be worn as a show shirt.
Concessions onsite both days!
RIDE FOR A CURE T-SHIRTS
Starting at $15.00 (prior to June 15th)
Tie dye t-shirts available in various colors if ordered prior to July 13th.
Short or long sleeve. Sizes 2XL or larger at additional cost.
CAMPING & STALLS
CAMPING: $35.00 per night (prior to June 15th)
STALLS: $10.00 per night (prior to June 15th)
HIGH POINT DIVISIONS
• Pony Saturday: Sunday:
• 25 Years & Over
• 16-24 Years
• 9-15 Years
• 8 & Under
• Miniature Horses (exhibitor any age)
• 40 Years & Over
• 18-39 Years
• 13-17 Years (horse/pony)
• 12 & Under (horse/pony)
$40.00 per night (after June 15th) Saturday, July 13th: Join us for “Christmas In July” Theme Classes!
$20.00 per night (after June 15th)
For questions, donations, camping or stall reservations or to order t-shirts, contact: Jackie Garner 989.302.0191, email: jd070409@gmail.com Advance payments accepted via Venmo: @TuscolaCountyFair
Want to sponsor a class to remember someone? Contact Jackie Garner, details below! Starting at $25.00 (deadline July 5th) Follow the “Lori Bellor Ride For A Cure Horse Show” event on Facebook!
Show Sponsor:
ANIMAL RESCUES
CANTER Thoroughbreds Now Available! Visit us online: www.canterusa.org/Michigan, Horses For Sale. Visit “CANTER Michigan” on Facebook. Celebrating over 20 yrs of successfully transitioning more than 25,000 Thoroughbreds. Janet Salisbury, President. CANTER Michigan (S-08/24)
Email: cantermichigan@canterusa.org
Online: www.canterusa.org/michigan
ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS
Fastrack Animal Supplements – Keep your horses healthier Healthier hooves, shinier hair coats, and more. With 16 of the top 17 horses in the National Barrel Race finals using Fastrack, why aren’t you using it? (PS-12/24)
FASTRACK ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS
To get started, call Ray at 989.550.1999 or message: 888.266.0014, ext. 8778
A1 Herbal Animal Tea Naturally Grown Caffeine Free T
Caffeine Free Tea for Dogs and Horses. Anti-inflammatory benefits help fight arthritis. Aids in the treatment of Laminitis. Strengthens bones and tendons. Eases stress and tension. Helps restore youthful energy (PS-12/24)
Nelson Automatic Waterers – Nelson preferred contractor! Installed from start to finish. Many units to choose from. Maintenance free, time saving, energy efficient. Repairs and directional boring available. Horse fence installation. R. BARNES CO., INC. – Rick 313.407.7373 Howell, MI (Livingston) (PS-12/24)
Nelson Automatic Waterers – Nelson preferred provider for repair and maintenance of your Nelson Automatic Waterers Excellent response time. Most parts in stock. Honest, ethical and reliable. Will travel. Serving Michigan and Northern Ohio.
WATERFIX COMPANY – John Guthrie Dexter, MI (Washtenaw) (S-01/25) 313.418.5676 or 734.475.8898
CLASSIFIED ADS
BOARDING BOARDING, CONT.
Boarding in Hastings, MI (South East Grand Rapids area). Quiet, country with 165 acres of trails. Inside and outside board, large pastures w/shelters. 60x160 indoor riding arena. Lessons available. Horses for sale.
EVERVIEW FARM – 269.948.9570 Hastings, MI (Barry) (S-04/25)
Email: lee@everviewfarm.net
Online: http://www.everviewfarm.net/
Horse Boarding, Webberville, MI – Small, quiet farm with onsite management. 10x10 matted stalls, daily turnout, 6 pastures, 72x120 indoor arena and lockable tack cubbies.
Offering Full Service Boarding, Training and Dressage lessons. Relax and enjoy your horse in a quiet, adult atmosphere. Please visit our website at www.EleventhHourFarm.com, or find us on Facebook.com/11th Hour Farm ELEVENTH HOUR FARM – 248.755-2083 Holly, MI (Oakland) (PS-12/24) Email: info@eleventhhourfarm.com
OPEN 24/7 – Quality Boarding: Tack locker, heated rooms, 12% pellet grain, hay, large pastures, daily turnout. We have trails, two indoor arenas, and one outdoor arena with lights.
HARDY FARMS – 313.363.2243 (call or text) 7215 N. Latson Rd., Howell, MI (M-07/24) Email: info@hardysfarm.com http://www.hardysfarm.com/ Find us on Facebook: Hardy Farms
PASTURE AND STALL BOARD: Lush green turnouts, quality horse care, reasonable rates. 24 hr access, 60x120 indoor arena Easy access to multiple trail systems. Boutique boarding facility where you and your horse are treated like family
FARM INSURANCE – horses, cattle, goats, etc. I can also write mortality policies. Protect what matters. Put your trust in an agent who has over 38 years experience in the industry! I cover all of Michigan.
Hoof Care Matters! Over 30 years of experience in trimming, shoeing and corrective shoeing. Ask about teeth floating too! Serving Oakland County and surrounding counties.
JOHN PETERSON FARRIER – 248.303.6498
Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-08/24)
Servicing Equine Foot Care needs on the westside of Michigan. American Farrier Association (AFA) certified. Patient, punctual and honest. Graduate of Michigan State University Farrier School.
HOOVES LLC – Alex DeVries 616.335.1644
Email: hoovesfarrier@gmail.com
Find us on Facebook: “Hooves” (S-03/25)
FLY & INSECT CONTROL
Shoo-Fly Insect Control – Automatically get rid of flies, mosquitoes, and spiders. Safe and inexpensive to use. Used throughout Michigan for over 30 years. We Install or Do-It-Yourself
SHOO-FLY INSECT CONTROL
Bill Tressler – 517.927.8089
Webberville, MI (Ingham) (S-08/24)
Email: bill@radiant-energy.com
HAYFIELDS AVAILABLE
HAYFIELDS NEED BALING: 25 acres in Oceola Twp., Livingston County, MI. Wonderful grass hay for square baling. Sharing bales in exchange for baling
Call Ina Z. 517.294.0328 (M-07/24)
HAY FOR SALE
Mike Murphy 517.206.7377 www.murphyfarm.net
SMALL SQUARE BALES: Timothy & alfalfa hay Also offering net wrapped 4x5 round bales. Delivery available. (S10/24)
Mike Murphy 517.206.7377 Online: www.murphyfarm.net
HELP WANTED
FARM MANAGER NEEDED: 40 acre horse farm in Livingston County, MI. Training barn and stalls for rent if you wish to lease the entire farm.
Call Ina Z. 517.294.0328 Howell, MI (Livingston) (M-07/24)
Free Online Show Calendar
CLASSIFIED ADS
HOMES FOR SALE
34.7 ACRES PLUS INCOME PROPERTY: 3
bedroom modular home. 3 barns, one w/7 stalls and run-in. Fenced pastures and hayfields. Air bnb campsite with 60 amp RV hookup. Offered at $399,000. Add’l. acreage available.
Call Susan 231.349.0912
Reed City, MI (Oceola) (M-08/24)
HORSE BLANKET WASH
FIBER LUXE Horse Blanket Cleaning and Repair. Free Pick-up and delivery.
FIBER LUXE – 800.334.1994
Email: flblankets@comcast.net
GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – Horse blanket wash and repair service. 10 years experience.
GOOD AS NEW BLANKETS – 517.404.6336 2711 E. Grand River, Howell, MI 48843
Email: goodasnewblankets@gmail.com
Online: https://www.goodasnewblankets.com/
HORSES FOR SALE
ANDALUSIAN’S FOR SALE: Athletic pure Spanish Andalusian horses. Focus on disposition, conformation, movement. Four foals expected 2024. Imprinted and handled professionally. Welcoming visitors upon request.
Contact Gabriele – 517.285.2834
East Lansing, MI (Ingham) (M-07/24) Online: www.yrandalusians.com
MINIATURE PONIES: Appaloosas & pintos. Exc. conformation w/good dispositions. Show quality. Stallions at stud. Babies on the way.
DANSYN ARABIANS & MINIS
Donna Rogers – 989.667.4028
Bay City, MI (Tuscola) (M-07/24)
SHOW QUALITY POA PONIES: 3 to choose from: $6,500 to $10,000. We specialize in the sales of quality POA ponies. Double registered quarter ponies with IQPA
TAKING SHOWS FOR 2024/2025: Over 20 years experience as a secretary or an assistant. Resume and references available upon request. No show too big or small. (S-01/25)
Donna Auber – 330.274.2039
Laura Smith – 317.459.2697
Email: horseshows101@yahoo.com
HORSE-THEMED BOOKS
HE REIGNS CHAPTER BOOKS: Christian horse-themed chapter books for elementaryaged children by Laurie Salisbury Reviews include: “Couldn’t put them down”, “loved them”, “inspiring and engaging”! Available on Amazon, or contact the author (PS-07/24)
We specialize in horse trailers: full living quarters with slideout, to smaller two horse bumper pulls. Cimarron, Lakota, Sundowner and Trails West. Great selection and even better prices! SPARTA CHEVROLET & TRAILER SALES
52 yr. old manufacturing company expanding. We are looking for individuals that have experience in agriculture and animal health, who are interested in building there own business using Christian principles.
K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING: Need to get away, call K & J – 248.667.2185! Also HORSE ART, Books and Journals (links below): www zazzle com/store/thistlebrook/products https://www.amazon.com/stores/kimberlykingstad/author/B0BZSMTH7P?
K & J HORSE AND FARM SITTING
Kim Kingstad – 248.667.2185 call or text Milford, MI (Oakland) (M-03/25)
Tri-State Horse Shows
SADDLE/LEATHER REPAIR
SADDLE, LEATHER & TACK REPAIR: Used saddles and tack bought and sold. Certified with 40 plus years of experience.
BIG BUCK SADDLERY
Roger Burkowski – 830.285.2080
Flint, MI (Genesee) (S-07/24)
SADDLE REPAIR & LEATHER WORK: New and used saddles and tack bought and sold. Complete Leather Repair available. Many years of experience. M-F 9am-6pm, Sat. 9:30-5pm.
JIM'S QUALITY SADDLE CO
Jim Moule – 248.887.4829
Milford, MI (Oakland) (S-08/24)
SHOW CLOTHING
Equestrian Wear Sewing Patterns: Western and English show clothing patterns: jackets, shirts, vests, chaps, hunt seat and saddle seat. Child through plus sizes. Printed or PDF format. SHOW CLOTHES UNLIMITED (M-07/24)
Two Saddles For Sale: 16” Circle Y, dark brown, lots of silver. Could use for show. $650. 16” Circle Y, dark brown. Trail or work saddle. $600. Cash please.
Call Richard 586.651.2717
Warren, MI (Macomb) (M-07/24)
“Loving horses is a fire burning inside you that always keeps you warm and never dies.”
CLASSIFIED ADS
TRAINING & LESSONS
Beautiful boarding and training facility for all breeds/disciplines. Green horses and firsttime riders welcome! Offering western dressage and short-term intensive training programs.
IRONWOOD FARM – Dorothy 313.215.1944
Leonard, MI (Oakland) (M-06/24)
Email: ironwoodfarmdressage@yahoo.com
Online: Ironwood Farm Equestrian LLC
CROWTHORNE FARM: Lessons and training available at your barn on your horse. Dressage, jumping, or eventing Stressing balance of rider and horse. Also horse available for lease for an experienced rider
CROWTHORNE FARM
Contact Lynnda – 248.535.8954
Email: crowthornefarm@comcast.net
Hartland, MI (Livingston) (M-07/24)
GRAND OAKES FARM TRAINING
Facility
(includes board): Specializing in youth and nonpro all-around horses. Lessons and coaching at shows. Quality horse care, indoor and outdoor arenas, quiet atmosphere, private facility. GRAND OAKES FARM
Paul Oakes – 248.421.1757 (text)
Email: grandoakesfarm@comcast.net Holly, MI (Oakland) (M-07/24)
THE TRAVELING TRAINER offers training, lessons, consulting at your facility or mine. Over 30 years of experience. Bachelor’s degree in Equestrian Studies from the University of Findlay. Also quality horses for sale. Find us on Facebook, or on Instagram: #thehappyhorse house, or: http://www.thetravelingtrainer.net/
THE TRAVELING TRAINER LLC
Ann-Marie Lavallee – 810.796.3510
Dryden, MI (Lapeer) (S-08/24) Email: thetravelingtrainer3@gmail.com
Tri-State Horse Shows
VETERINARIAN
Holistic Veterinary Care. Small & large animals. Services: Acupuncture, equine spinal manipulation, aromatherapy, herbal treatment, laser, Reiki and more. Serving Michigan and Ohio.
One Classified 2 Months: Free One Classified 12 Months: $60 (includes magazine monthly) One Classified 12 Months with Logo or Photo: $120 (includes magazine monthly)
Deadline for our August Issue is July 17th
Classifieds ads are prepay only All credit cards accepted. Heading of your choice, up to 30 words of text, plus 4 lines of contact information.
FREE CLASSIFIED ADS:
Must be emailed or mailed.
Email: Mail: saddleupmag@gmail.com 5303 East Ridge Road Elsie, MI 48831
We produce two issues of Saddle Up! Magazine each month; one printed and one in digital format for online. Non-profit equine groups can now receive one full page, full color ad in our online edition FREE of charge. We ask one thing in exchange... share the issue link that your ad appears in to your social media page(s). We will email you the link once created.
All ads must be online ready (713” W x 9.43” H). Limit one ad per month, per non-profit group. Ad format: PDF or jpg.
SHOW & EVENT DATES
Tri-State Horse Shows
SHOW & EVENT DATES
Saddle Up! Magazine
SHOW & EVENT DATES
Tri-State Horse Shows
Post your shows to our public Facebook page and we’ll share them to Saddle Up! Magazine’s Facebook page!
Free Horse Shows Online & In Print
SHOW & EVENT DATES
SHOWS Ohio
Tri-State Horse Shows
Tri-State Horse Shows
SHOW & EVENT DATES
Tri-State Horse Shows
SHOW & EVENT DATES
We produce two issues of Saddle Up! Magazine each month; one that is printed and one in a digital format for our online readers. Non-profit groups can receive one full page, full color ad in our online edition FREE of charge.
We ask one thing in exchange... share the issue link that your ad appears in to your social media page(s). We will email you the link once it’s created.
AUGUST 2024
Deadline: July 17th THE FINE PRINT: All ads must be online ready (7.13” W x 9.43” H). Limit one ad per month, per non-profit equine group. Ad format: PDF or jpg.
Tuscola County Fairgrounds, 188 Park Drive, Caro, MI | https://tuscolacountyfair.org/
SATURDAY, JULY 13TH – 9:00 A.M. START
1. Candy Cane Pole Bending – 25 & over
2. Candy Cane Pole Bending – 16-24
3. Candy Cane Pole Bending – 9-15
4. Candy Cane Pole Bending – 8 & under
5. Candy Cane Pole Bending – Pony (rider any age)
6. Birangle – 25 & over
7. Birangle – 16-24
8. Birangle – 9-15
9. Birangle – 8 & under
10. Birangle – Pony
11. Christmas In July Cloverleaf – 25 & Over
12. Christmas In July Cloverleaf – 16-24
13. Christmas In July Cloverleaf – 9-15
14. Christmas In July Cloverleaf – 8 & Under
15. Christmas In July Cloverleaf – Pony (rider any age)
16. Indiana Flag Race – 25 & over
17. Indiana Flag Race – 16-24
18. Indiana Flag Race – 9-15
19. Indiana Flag Race – 8 & under
20. Indiana Flag Race – Pony
21. Big T – 25 & over
22. Big T – 16-24
23. Big T – 9-15
24. Big T – 8 & under
25. Big T – Pony
26. Mystery Class – 25 & Over
27. Mystery Class – 16-24
28. Mystery Class – 9-15
29. Mystery Class – 8 & Under
30. Mystery Class – Pony (rider any age)
TACK BREAK
31. Ranch Riding 16 & Over (Horse or Pony)
32. Ranch Riding 15 & Under (Horse or Pony)
BREAK FOR TRAIL SETUP
33. Extreme Trail – 16 & over
34. Extreme Trail – 15 & under
SUNDAY, JULY 14TH – 9:00 A.M. START
1. Halter (miniature) Mares
2. Halter (miniature) Geldings
3. Halter Stallions – any age: horse or mini
4. Halter Mares – any age
5. Halter Geldings – any age
6. Halter Pony, Mare or Gelding – any age
7.* Color Class – Open
8. Showmanship – 25 & over
9. Showmanship – 16-24
10. Showmanship – 9-15
11. Showmanship – 8 & under
12. Showmanship – Miniature
13.** Groom’s Class, Simon Says Showmanship – All Ages Moms, Dads, Siblings, Partners, etc.
• Exhibitor age day of show. • Stallions require handler age 18 or older
• 4-H rules will be used for patterns and general guidelines, if applicable.
• Must show current, negative Coggins test.
• No show clothes required if wearing a Ride For A Cure shirt or a cancer fundraising shirt of any kind.
• Helmets recommended, and required for 4-H age and younger participants on Saturday
• No alcohol allowed on display or on the fairgrounds.
14. ** Horse Show Dog Showmanship – 17 & under
15. ** Horse Show Dog Showmanship – 18 & over BREAK
16. Miniature In-Hand Jumping
17. English Pleasure – 16 & over
18. English Pleasure – 15 & under
19. English Equitation – 16 & over
20. English Equitation – 15 & under 21. Miniature Liberty BREAK
22. Driving – Open
23. Bribe a ______? (insert favorite 4 legged friend here) (Classes 24-29, English or Western. Not to ride in any other class.)
24. ** Lead Line – any age
25. ** Musical Pie Plates – Walk Trot and Leadline Exhibitors Only (leadline only allowed if being lead)
26. ** Walk/Trot Pleasure (green horse, any age horse)
27. ** Walk/Trot Pleasure (inexperienced rider, any age)
28. ** Walk/Trot (green horse, any age horse)
29. ** Walk/Trot Equitation Horsemanship (inexperienced rider, any age)
30. Western Pleasure – 25 & over
31.
Western Pleasure – 16-24
32. Western Pleasure – 9-15
33. Western Pleasure – 8 & under
34.
Western Pleasure – Pony
35.* Jr Western Pleasure (horse 5 & under)
36. Western Horsemanship – 25 & over
37.
Western Horsemanship – 16-24
38. Western Horsemanship – 9-15
39.
40.
Western Horsemanship – 8 & under
Western Horsemanship – Pony
41. Egg & Spoon – Open
42.
43.
Western/English Riding – 16 & over
Western/English Riding – 15 & under
44. Reining – 16 & over
45. Reining – 15 & under
46. Trail – Miniature Horse, Horse or Pony In-Hand – any age (Judged in separate arena after English classes)
Not exhibiting in Trail Classes 47-51.
47. Trail – 25 & over
48. Trail – 16-24
49. Trail – 9-15
50. Trail – 8 & under
51. Trail – Pony (Judged in separate arena after English classes) Not exhibiting in class 46.
Please Note: ** or * do not count toward High Point Award. ** Not to ride in any other class.
• Dogs must be kept at campsite/trailer
• The Fair Board, Horse Leaders Committee or Ride For A Cure staff will not be held responsible for accidents, theft or bad weather!
• Judge’s decision final. No refunds, rain or shine.
• Participation ribbon given to all exhibitors. Prize table for 1st place awards. 1st-6th place ribbons given upon request.
• High Point: $50 donation made to any cancer fund designated by winner in the name of horse and rider
This show supports: American Cancer Society, The KCQ Pink Fund, Tuscola County Horse Leaders Cancer Fund, the Carl Fritz Transportation Fund.
RIDE FOR A CURE
TWO DAY OPEN HORSE SHOW
Tuscola County Fairgrounds
188 Park Drive, Caro, MI https://tuscolacountyfair.org/
Speed, Trail, Pleasure, Miniature Horses & Fun!
100% Proceeds Donated!
• HIGH POINT AWARDS
• RAFFLES • DRAWINGS
• CLASS PRIZE TABLE
Entry booth opens at 8:00 a.m. Show starts at 9:00 a.m.
$5.00 per class | Judge: TBD Rider age is day of show 4-H rules for patterns and general guidelines. Any cancer cure support shirt can be worn as a show shirt.
Concessions onsite both days!
RIDE FOR A CURE T-SHIRTS
Starting at $15.00 (prior to June 15th)
Tie dye t-shirts available in various colors if ordered prior to July 13th.
Short or long sleeve. Sizes 2XL or larger at additional cost.
CAMPING & STALLS
CAMPING: $35.00 per night (prior to June 15th)
$40.00 per night (after June 15th)
STALLS: $10.00 per night (prior to June 15th)
$20.00 per night (after June 15th)
Saturday:
HIGH POINT DIVISIONS
Sunday:
• 25 Years & Over
• 16-24 Years
• 9-15 Years
• 8 & Under
• Pony
• Miniature Horses (exhibitor any age)
• 40 Years & Over
• 18-39 Years
• 13-17 Years (horse/pony)
• 12 & Under (horse/pony)
Saturday, July 13th: Join us for “Christmas In July” Theme Classes! Want to sponsor a class to remember someone? Contact Jackie Garner, details below! Starting at $25.00 (deadline July 5th)
For questions, donations, camping or stall reservations or to order t-shirts, contact: Jackie Garner 989.302.0191, email: jd070409@gmail.com
Advance payments accepted via Venmo: @TuscolaCountyFair
Show Sponsor:
Follow the “Lori Bellor Ride For A Cure Horse Show” event on Facebook!
Come join us on Saturday, August 17th for the HTRA Poker Ride! Poker skills are not required, just come and ride and play for fun. We will be starting at the main campground pavilion at 9:30am. When you arrive, an HTRA member will greet you and collect the $5 a hand to start the Poker ride. Are you ready to play Poker on horseback?
You will then be given a map with the route for the ride, or you can print the Poker ride map in advance before you come. You can save the map to your phone too.
We hope you can join us for a fun Poker ride in August!
2024 ISHA Spring & Fall Open All Breed Horse Show
Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, Indiana (rain or shine: covered arena)
106 Ground Poles OP X-RAILS DIVISION Classes 107, 108 & 109
107 X-Rails US (W/T/C)
108 X-Rails OF (12-18” height)
109 X-Rails OF (12-18” height)
BEGINNER HUNTER DIVISION Classes 110, 111 &112
110 Beginner Hunter US (W/T/C)
111 Beginner Hunter OF (24” max height)
112 Beginner Hunter OF (24” max height)
HOPEFUL HUNTER DIVISION Classes 113, 114 & 115
113 Hopeful Hunter US (W/T/C)
114 Hopeful Hunter OF (2’3” – 2’6” height)
115 Hopeful Hunter OF (2’3” – 2’6” height)
Questions or Stall Reservations: Donna Skatrud: 317-418-6381 or email: skatrudarabians@gmail.com ** RESTRICTED Classes: Not allowed to enter other classes with a canter or a lope.
h ps://www.indianasaddlehorse.org/ | Facebook: Indiana Saddle Horse Associa on
STALLS: Weekend Stalls $40 | Tie Outs $15 per day | ENTRY FEES: $8 Per Class | $10 for $100 Added Money Classes OFFICE FEE: $10 Per Horse/Exhibitor Combination for Weekend
The Sleepy Hollow Trail Riders Association sincerely appreciates your support and commitment to maintaining and improving the horse trails at Sleepy Hollow State Park. Please join us at one of our upcoming events.
2024 SHTRA Events
May 24-27 Memorial Day Weekend.
Camping Friday though Monday. A relaxing weekend of riding the trails. Potluck on Saturday at 6:00 p.m.
Aug 30-Sept 2 Labor Day Weekend.
Camping Friday though Monday. Fun trail games and root beer floats!
October 17-20 Explore The Hollow.
Camping Thursday though Sunday. Special access to some of the hike/bike trails that are normally closed to equestrians.
Year-round horse camping in the modern/rustic cabins available! Both cabins have pens and are connected to the horse trails. Call 1-800-44-PARKS to reserve them!
For more information on any of the events sponsored by SHTRA, please go to our Facebook page, Sleepy Hollow Trail Riders Association or visit our website at https://shtra.org/
Events may be cancelled due to heavy rain. Please check our Facebook page or website to confirm an event prior to attending.
BUILDING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR HORSE
Western Dressage Level 1 Gaits and Definitions
Let’s get ready to show and grow!
By Lynn Palm | http://www.lynnpalm.com/
After the Introductory Level with the Walk and Jog, Basic Level introduces the Working Lope. After Basic Level, Level 1 introduces lateral work and lengthening in gaits. Follow along for the Level 1 Gaits and their definitions as described by the Western Dressage Association of America tests.
Backing: The back is a rearward diagonal movement with a two-beat rhythm but without a moment of suspension. Each diagonal pair of legs is raised and returned to the ground alternatively, with the forelegs aligned on the same track as the hind legs. The steps are counted as each foreleg moves back. During the entire exercise, the horse should remain “on the bit” maintaining the desire to move forward at the slightest indication of the rider
For the backing to get its highest scores and do what is described above, the horse MUST be perfectly straight for the back to be fluid, smooth with willing and even steps back.
Lengthening Jog/Lope: This is a variation of the Working jog/ lope; the horse covers more ground through lengthening its frame while maintaining the same tempo as in the Working jog/lope. Excessive speed will be penalized.
Lengthening the stride will get high scores. If you create fast or quick strides, this is not lengthening, thus lower scores. A horse will have more energy and must have connection with leg and rein contact, allowing the outline to lengthen slightly to encourage the lengthening of stride.
Half Turn On Haunches: The turn on the haunches is executed out of the working walk prepared by shortening the steps. During the movement the forefeet and the outside hind foot move around and are stepped laterally in front of the other pair of legs. The turn may be performed on a larger diameter, approximately one meter
I teach turn on the haunches before I teach pivoting. As described above, the inside hind leg must move up and down as the turn is completed. The rider must keep the bend of the horse throughout the direction of turn. When done correctly, the horse will track right back out of the track they rode to into the turn. This turn should not be done through the halt, shortening the walk to the turn. This will get you the highest scores. Tip: The horse must respond to 80-90% from the outside leg aid and 2010% rein aids. Riders have the tendency to use the reins more actively because the front legs move more laterally than the hind legs. However, the body has to turn at its tightest to allow the front legs to move in a longer lateral step so the reins aids can not block the horse in front.
At any gait lateral movements should remain free flowing and regular, maintained by a constant impulsion and forwardness, yet it must be supple, cadenced and balanced.
Pivot: The pivot is similar to the Turn on the Haunches. While the horse is doing the turn inside hind leg stays stationary or lifts the leg slightly to rebalance, pivot, step, pivot, step on the inside rear hind leg. The turn stays the same as Turn on the Haunches.
Both the Pivot and Turn on the Haunches are options. You should show the same turn on each side. If not, it will reflect your score.
Half Turn On The Forehand: Is executed out of a halt or working walk prepared by shortening the steps. The horse's hind legs move laterally, stepping the outside legs in front and sideways from in inside legs. The front legs stay stepping in a very small area without moving too much sideways. Neither front legs should pivot in place. The horse must maintain the same rhythm, tempo, contact and activity and show willingness to be on the outside rein. Stepping back is a fault.
In the turn on the forehand RIGHT, the horse is slightly flexed at the poll to the right, the hind quarters move laterally to the left. This turn is done with a 180% turn.
This is a great training exercise. I use it to teach a horse leg aids and for the rider to learn the aids sequence to keep the horse straight during the turn for it to be correct. The aids sequence and straightness are also needed for Yielding I teach the Turn on the Forehand, Yielding at the walk and jog, then Turn on the Haunches to riders and their horses as that is the progression in difficulty.
Leg Yield: The horse is straight except with a slight flexion at the poll away from the direction in of which it moves. The flexion is just enough so the rider can see just the eye of the on the inside. The inside legs pass and cross in front of the outside legs. The forehand can be slightly in advance of the hind quarters. Leg Yield can be performed on the diagonal in which case the horse should be as close as parallel to the long side of the arena.
Yielding needs to be mastered before learning the next lateral movement in difficulty; Shoulder Fore (training), Shoulder In, etc. (level 2 or higher). Although Yielding is only done on a diagonal line, in training you can yield on a straight line or curving line for excellent suppling and developing athleticism in your horse. This training will also prepare you more for your lateral movement with a bend from your horse.
Serpentine quarter line to quarter line: The serpentine around the centerline is executed between the quarter lines. The loops must show bend in both directions and change their bend as they cross the quarter lines.
Lisa Michelle Photography
I love this riding figure for suppleness and aids coordination for the rider is great! To ride it accurately, you must know the two 20 meter points on the center line to have equally sized half circles in the figure. In this figure you also need to find the quarter lines to show it is the middle (first point on the circle) depth of the half circles.
Are you passionate about becoming a true partner with your horse? I know I am, and I'm here to help you achieve that goal. Training for Western Dressage will help with any western discipline with or without cattle!
For this next series on training, you'll be your own trainer for 80 to 90 percent of the time. You will learn to find those remarkable feelings when both you and your horse come into balance, regardless of discipline. Being in the Dressage Court (arena) will help you attain that balance. We all want those feelings with a horse, regardless of what saddle you're riding or what breed of horse you swing a leg over We all dream of moments of being in synchronization with our horses. These moments keep us hungry to learn more and achieve more difficult tasks with our horses. Remember, this Western Dressage discipline will steal your heart and create a passion for riding in harmony with your horse. Remember, dressage is simply the foundation to ride correctly, and for the horse to be confident and willing with whatever performance you choose!
I'm looking forward to the next several months, when I'll share tips and guidelines for understanding the simplicity of learning (in written format, at least) Western Dressage training from Level 1 to Level 5.
MSU Farrier School
Therearecurrentlyapproximately155,000horsesinMichigan,basedonthelast Equine Survey (2007). While these numbers may have decreased somewhat basedontherecession,theuseofhorsesinthestatehasnotdecreased,andinfact may be increasing (personal observation). Each of these animals is in need of regularhoofcare,withtrimmingrequiredevery6-8weeksandshoes(forthose whoareshod)requiredonasimilarschedule.
Theoldadage“nofoot,nohorse”holds,inthatahorsewithoutregularhoofcare byaknowledgeableprofessional,isunlikelytobeofusetoitshumancare-takers. Further,mosthorsemenandwomenwouldratherhiresomeoneknow-ledgeable to do this work than to do it themselves. Finally, well-trained farriers have the potentialtomakeadecentliving,asevidencedby“AnAmericanFarriersJournal surveyin2012foundthatthenationalaverageannualsalaryforfull-timefarriers intheU.S.wasreportedtobe$92,623peryearandforpart-timers,$21,153.Thisamountisanaverageandvaries accordingtoexperiencelevel,training,etc.”(TheFarriersGuide.com)
Michigan State University offers the MSU Farrier School! This is a 12 or 24-week program, housed on the MSUHorseTeachingandResearchCenter,andwillbeledbyMSUalum,DavidHallock,CJF,ASF Studentsin the program will receive both hands-on and classroom-based instruction in hoof and farrier science, equine anatomy and physiology, basic welding, and business. The class runs 8 hours per day, with the intention of producingindividualspoisedtobewelltrained,professionalfarrierstoservetheequineindustry.
20 beautiful acres, small outbuilding and well. Located on a paved road, not too far from Black Lake Acreage has been in crops and well maintained. Wildlife everywhere and great for hunting or build your own getaway up north. Zoned 401-Residential. 654 feet of frontage on paved road. Offered at $55,000. Seller will consider land contract. Call for details.
COMING SOON – CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION
CLARE COUNTY/HARRISON, MI: Complete boarding/training facility, indoor arena, 20 acres, equipment building, housing and much more!
SOUTH LYON: 9+ acres, brick ranch home, nice barn, paved road. Call for more details!
ANN ARBOR: 15 acres, nice home with outbuildings. Call Kathie Crowley for more details.
DAVISBURG: 5 private acres, ranch home with walkout basement and pole barn. Call for more details!
“On
~ Stella Walker
I DON’T JUST SELL HOMES & FARMS... I HELP CHANGE LIVES!
