Show Circuit Magazine - August / September 2019 by Show Circuit Magazine

HIGHLAND ESCAPE - AN IDYLLIC RETREAT | STALLIONS SHOWCASE - ISSUE ONE

SHOWCIRCUIT NEW ZEALANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ULTIMATE EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

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WELCOME FROM MY DESK

While the cold has not yet left us and the drab winter months continue, I hope you have time to snuggle up with our latest issue, which is packed full of interesting interviews and divine stallions to drool over. Anyone that knows me knows that I am not quick to embrace change. This issue, we bid farewell to Pip Hume in her role as Editor of Show Circuit, although she is not getting off lightly and will continue as a contributing writer and photographer. On a personal level, I consider Pip a truly great friend and hope that she and her husband enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle in the South Island. And on that note, we welcome Rebecca Harper as Editor and Cheyenne Nicholson as our new Senior Features writer. Our cover story features Christen Lane, who is returning to top form in eventing after a horrific injury. She shares with us the story of her horrendous injury in 2013 and her path to recovery to fulfil her equestrian dreams. We celebrate success with Lucy Olphert, who has returned from Mexico after becoming the star of the show in the VISA MX Classic, taking home the top prize of $100,000! Good for her! In this issue, Cheyenne speaks with four emerging riders across four different codes, asking each the same questions about their pathway to the podium. I find it interesting to see the common threads throughout their answers. We also feature the Moffett family - and if ever there was a family that embraces a foundation of high principles, it is this family. They share how the equestrian bug has never truly left them. For some of us, finding a 'unicorn’, a great equine partner, can be a rocky road. I have personally experienced the lows of purchasing the wrong horse, and somehow, that experience has never left me. We have brought in three experts to give advice from trying a horse to vetting one. I wish I had read something like this when I was shopping for mounts for my children. I hope you all read and refer back to it should you be on the hunt for a new equine partner. Winter is a great time to sneak in a little getaway. Flip over to page 58 and read about a Highland Escape. Our country is breathtaking! We have truly enjoyed putting this edition together and while we move on to the next issue we hope you enjoy this one.

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“You have to have a sense of purpose, and mine was to get back to work and competition. You have to have faith in yourself and your horses to be able to do that.”

A REMARKABLE RECOVERY Christen Lane (then Hayde) was riding a wave of success in 2013 when a cross-country accident broke her body and turned her world upside down. The 4* eventer shares her physical and emotional struggles to get back into the competition ring, and proves that if you’re willing to put in the hard yards, your dreams are never out of reach.

oming from a non-horsey family in Dunedin didn’t stop Christen Lane from quickly making her mark on the eventing scene. “I had always wanted to ride, but because we lived in town and I had non-horsey parents, it took a while for me to get a pony,” she recalls. “I was 12 before I went to my first competition.” For several years, Christen represented Otago/Southland at NZPCA Eventing Champs. By the time she was 18, she was eventing at 3* level (now 4*), and was the leading South Island Young Eventer aboard her horse Allie Cat for the 2003/2004 season. The combination quickly moved up the grades and was set to compete at Adelaide CCI4* before a tendon injury dashed those plans, and Allie Cat was retired. The mare has gone on to be the foundation of Christen’s breeding programme. After completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Otago University, Christen decided to make the move to Auckland in a bid to take her riding to the next level. “I’ve always been committed to the sport. I wanted to move to

“ Having goals helped me move forward because I wanted it so badly. I committed to achieving those goals because riding and competing is a big part of who I am.”

Auckland to focus on horses full-time,” she explains. “The South Island was difficult for eventing. There aren’t as many events, and we spent long hours travelling to and from each one.” The move proved to be a smart one. Christen took a number of coveted wins, including the Bell Tea Super League Series, Puhinui Three-Day Event CCI3* (now 4*) and the CIC3* (now 4*) National One-Day Championship in 2011. Her dedication and talents were recognised when she was selected to represent New Zealand on the Senior Trans-Tasman Team in 2012. This was her second taste of international competition after captaining the winning New Zealand Nations Cup team at the Inter-Pacific Pony Club Exchange in Kentucky, USA in 2007. Then the 2013 Kihikihi International Horse Trials rolled around. Christen was in top form and was hoping to have good rides on all four of her entries, one of which was a catch ride. Christen had decided to take the horse to Kihikihi and give it a go, despite only having jumped it twice previously. All was going well on the crosscountry course until the second water element, where they had a rotational fall that left Christen with two fractures in her right hip, a

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L-R: Christen with home-bred THUNDER CAT and riding HENTON FIRST LADY severely displaced fracture of the iliac crest in her left hip, and three broken transverse fractures in her lower vertebrae. “I was extremely lucky not to have any internal damage,” she says. “They had an excellent doctor at the event, Craig Campbell, as well as my mother Sue, who is also a doctor. Having them both there stopped me from truly panicking. The Westpac helicopter flew me and Mum to Hamilton Hospital, as it was the closest and they didn’t have much fuel in the tank! I spent about a week in hospital while they decided whether or not to operate on my left hip.” One surgery, five pins and an amazing group of friends and family later, Christen was back home just a few short weeks after her fall. She was soon ready to begin the recovery process and get back in the saddle as quickly as she could. “Friends of ours, Dave and Bridget Sutton (of Henton Lodge Hanoverians), owned the local Versatile Buildings franchise, so they got stuck into the house – widening the doors, making a ramp to get into the shower, just generally making the place wheelchair accessible. They are the reason I didn’t spend much time in hospital post-surgery.”

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THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

Christen was out of commission for the better part of six months, with two months in a wheelchair and six weeks on crutches. She spent a good portion of her physiotherapy time doing pool rehabilitation to help strengthen her muscles without putting pressure on her bones. “I hate the pool at the best of times,” she admits. “I can’t swim to save myself, so it was awful, but it helped. During my entire recovery process, my main focus was to get better so that I could ride again.” Although the physical recovery was rough at times, Christen admits the mental recovery was by far the hardest hurdle to overcome. Having been so successful before her accident, she often felt like she’d taken ten steps backwards. “You have to have a sense of purpose, and mine was to get back to work and competition. You have to have faith in yourself and your horses to be able to do that. Having those goals helped me move forward because I wanted it so badly. I committed to achieving those goals because riding and competing is a big part of who I am.” Planning a wedding during her recovery process helped Christen to stay positive, as well as keeping her mind occupied while she waited for her body to heal. Her nowhusband Tom Lane, who is also an eventer, proposed to her during a trip to Vanuatu. “Weddings take a lot of planning,” she recalls. “We didn’t have the wedding until February 2015 because I wanted to be physically fitter and I knew I’d need time to get to where I wanted to be. I spent many hours on the exercycle searching Pinterest for dresses, wedding themes and cakes! I planned a lot of the wedding very early on when I had a lot of spare time on my hands. It gave me an outlet from worrying about healing to being super excited for what was to come.”

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During Christen’s rehabilitation, fellow equestrians and friends helped to keep her competition horses ticking along while she was out of action. “Our horse community is incredible. I had friends stopping in all the time, and we’d swap stories. Eventing isn’t the safest of sports, so everyone’s got a story! Just having that support and knowing I had people to lean on was amazing.” In November, Christen’s surgeon gave her the all-clear to get back in the saddle. Her physiotherapist, however, wanted her to take a year off from riding. But Christen insisted that she needed to get back on her horses for her mental well-being. “I just couldn’t wait to get back on a horse. But I was weak. I had only just started walking without crutches in August, so I wasn’t physically able to leap back into it.” Her first ride back was on her ‘trusty old’ NZ-representative mare Sweetie in November. Christen and Sweetie started slowly, just at a walk for those first tentative steps, but despite the physical trauma, sitting astride a horse felt comfortable for her. “It was other things that would cause pain,” she admits. “I don’t know if it’s a mental thing, but I was happy on a horse so I didn’t feel any pain. Once I was off the horse, well – that was a bit different. “I was very stiff through my hips to start with, which obviously affects how you ride, so I focused a lot on strengthening and stretching. I did a lot of Swiss ball work, and I was fortunate to have Feldenkrais therapy with David Sullivan. It was important that I

didn’t transfer my problems to the horse.” While Christen quickly got back up to speed, days of riding multiple horses and being hardly able to walk at the end of the day took their toll. She realised she’d have to put in some hard work to look after her body better so that she could ride better, and admits she probably got back in the saddle sooner and with more intensity that she should have done. “The biggest thing for getting me back into it was strengthening and core exercises. The work I did off the horse helped more than anything I did on the horse to get my body in shape for riding.” Damage to nerves on her left side during her hip surgery means Christen’s body will never be ‘where it should be’, and she is at risk of developing early onset arthritis. Although being in the saddle is fine, sitting for long periods and walking the cross-country course became, and can sometimes still be, a challenge. Christen admits there were a few people who were naysayers in her journey back to the competition ring. “You have to figure out what you really want. I think my darkest time was when I had people saying I had lost my nerve or telling me I should take up dressage. At times it made me feel hopeless – then that would make me pretty angry! It only matters what you believe, and I tried to channel that anger into determination to reach my goals. I didn’t want to look back and wish I hadn’t given up on my dreams.” At times, she found it difficult to get into the right mindset to compete, especially on the cross-country course. Christen has made a new rule to not take catch rides, not only for her safety but also to make sure she has always she’s got her head in the game on competition day. “There are a lot of eventers who are good at getting on horses they don’t know, and I thought that was a big part of being a professional rider. Now I see that I need to know my horse and have a good relationship with it.” One of Christen’s first competitions back was Kihikihi the following year. Naturally, her emotions and nerves were on edge, but she says it felt like the one competition she just had to do, to conquer her demons and prove that she was back in action. To Christen and HENTON FIRST LADY during the 2* trot-up at NRM National Three Day Event Championships, Taupo

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SHOWCIRCUIT MAGAZINE

“The biggest thing for getting me back into it was strengthening and core exercises. The work I did off the horse helped more than anything I did on the horse to get my body in shape for riding.”

help with getting her confidence back, Christen sought the help of a hypnotherapist who she says helped a lot, although she still gets the odd lapses in confidence, even today. “It’s really easy to doubt yourself and to listen to that voice in your head that says you can’t do it. While it has taken some time, I’m now confident enough to know that if I’m not in the right headspace or the horses aren’t quite where I want them to be, it’s better to withdraw than to try push on because of what other people might think or say.” Christen achieved her goal of getting back to competing within a year, and she hasn’t looked back in the six years since. After a strong autumn season this year, her homebred horse Thunder Cat will step up to 4* and two other horses will be at 3*. “The past few years have been about rebuilding the team. Not long after my accident, I had to retire my top horse Sweetie, which was a blow. But things are looking positive. The quality of horses I have is the best it has ever been, so I’m really excited.” Christen and her husband Tom relocated from Auckland to Hawke’s Bay back in December. Their 700-acre farm, Te Konini, is the new base for Christen’s breeding and competition business. The couple also have plans to open their farm up as a holiday stay for both horse and rider. The property has several river access points, forest trails and lots of scenic farmland to ride through. “When I was in Auckland, a large part of my business was coaching and selling on behalf. My focus now is on doing a smaller group of my horses and doing it better.”

Christen and HENTON ARMADA competing at Puhinui International Horse Trials

CHRISTEN’S TIPS FOR GETTING BACK IN THE SADDLE • Give yourself a sense of purpose – without that, you may wander aimlessly. Big or small, set a goal and go for it. • Believe in yourself that you can achieve that goal! The people you surround yourself with are really important in this. You want people who will enable and empower you to reach your goals. • Be committed. You have to be willing to go to the gym to strengthen your body, just as much as you have to be willing to put in the hours in the saddle. • A big part of people not getting back into riding after an accident is the fear of failure. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t go according to plan, or if you have a few false starts – keep going. You will end up stronger as a person and rider for overcoming everything you have been through. C

INTERVIEW

Lucy Olphert

Y B N E V I R D N O I S S PA WORDS Diana Dobson IMAGES Anwar Esquivel

F E I L BE

nternational showjumper Lucy Olphert draws a lot of strength from her family motto, ‘while I breathe, I hope’ and it’s something she rolls throughout her world. “Maybe there’s no actual magic in it,” she says, “but when you know what you hope for most and hold it like a light within you, you can make things happen, almost like magic.” She’s certainly driven. It’s a trait she has had since she was tiny, she sets her sights on something and works backwards from there ensuring no stone is left unturned in her quest to be the best. Being the best doesn’t always mean winning, but it does mean being the very best you can be and getting the best result you can from your horse. Her recent victory in the $100,000 VISA MX Classic in Mexico may not have been in her plan but give her a challenge, and she’s on. Lucy was in Mexico as part of the Global Amateur Tour – a concept created by herself, Christian Lopez Redetzki (Mexico) and Alexander Dattelkremer (Brazil). “We wanted to offer amateur riders the opportunity to experience all the excitement, adrenaline and professionalism of competing internationally.” The idea came after spending time setting up the Lopetzki Masters class (for riders over 45) in Mexico. “We realised there was a huge gap in the industry for similar opportunities for amateur riders in general,” says Lucy. She was in Mexico with coach Sally Elwell, four riders from New Zealand and five from Australia to compete in the Global Amateur and Lopetzki Masters at the Equsport Masters – a four-day show that is part of Mexico’s national circuit, attracting 400-odd horses.

A perfect ride is a thing of beauty.

The Star of the Show

As it turned out, Lucy was the star of the show. “I was offered the ride on a lovely 14-year-old gelding called – appropriately – Mexicano. The first time I got to sit on him was just 10 minutes before my first class, the 1.35m welcome stakes.” The two bonded quickly and while jumping clear, picked up a single time fault. “In Mexico, the times are very tight, and to be competitive, you have to be efficient, especially in the jump-offs.”

Never let your struggles define you, or give up on the goals that set your heart on fire. There is always an answer to everything. The VISA MX Classic is one of the pinnacle classes of the show. “With 88 starters and an extremely generous prize pool, it was always going to be a super-competitive class. I was last to go, so had the luxury of watching plenty before me. Because of the huge entries, it was made a two-phase competition to speed up time, with the jump-off starting after fence eight. Other than a tight turn from fence nine to 10, the only other area to make up time was to literally gallop the last two fences and hope – with a little luck – they stayed up.” Lucy backed herself, and they crossed the flags at 57.99 seconds with the runner-up coming home in 58.04 seconds. “That win is most definitely up there amongst some of the most special wins of my career,” she says. “I remember the first time I attended this competition back in 2017 and experienced firsthand how competitive the Mexican riders were, so it was a pretty surreal feeling to be standing on that podium myself just two years later.”

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“Adversity is a word that often has a negative connotation, but over the years, I have learnt that it can also be your greatest tool. Sometimes what seems like a terrible blow or crushing defeat can be turned into a springboard for success in life. Even if it feels like the entire world is against you, you can Lucy and MEXICANO winner of the $100,000 VISA MX Classic in Mexico

Driven to Make GAT the Very Best

It all fuels her fire for the Global Amateur Tour to become the best and most prestigious showjumping tour in the world for amateur riders. “There are far more amateur riders than professionals on the international scene, yet there is a huge lack of affordable opportunities available. For whatever reason, these riders have chosen not to go further in the sport, but they still have the passion and are often some of our biggest supporters and financial contributors – it seems only fair that they have access to competing internationally too.” Lucy lives by the wise words of Steve Jobs: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something – your gut, destiny, life, karma whatever.” Lucy says approaching life with this in mind gave her the courage to throw away the corporate life to pursue her lifelong dreams in equestrian. With GAT, she feels she, Alex and Christian all bring unique strengths to the table. Alex brings a wealth of experience from his business background as a former vice president of the international fast-fashion retail clothing stores C & A, while Christian is exceptionally talented on the digital front, doing all GAT’s videography. “My background is social media, public relations, and marketing – so it all works.” GAT’s reception has exceeded Lucy’s expectations ‘beyond belief ’. “We held our first official GAT in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in September last year. The event was such a success we held our second leg in Buenos Aires, Argentina, just one month later. This year we have five events marked on the calendar in New Zealand, Mexico, Morocco, Brazil, and Argentina.” She believes they are meeting a huge demand in the world of showjumping. “Riding a borrowed horse cuts down costs for the riders and is all part of the GAT experience as it is a huge challenge in its own right.” Now countries from across the world are offering to host legs. “But we are taking it slowly, refining our processes with each leg to ensure the longevity and sustainability of the GAT.” Participants are entirely global – from Brazil to Germany, Cuba to Canada, as well as Scotland, the United States, Peru and more. “That overwhelming response from around the world was a really positive surprise,” says Lucy. “We have learnt a lot during this journey and we’re getting better in the planning and therefore

come back and defy the odds.”

also better in foreseeing eventualities.” She believes the benefits for riders are enormous. “The strengthening of international relations is amazing. Riders are all ages come from different backgrounds and cultures, but are united through their common love of horses. Seeing the emotions the riders go through is special – when they are nervous, then excited or even in tears hearing their anthems.”

Drawing Strength from Adversity

Lucy is more than aware that she needs to feed her soul to keep inspiring and enabling others to do the same. “Together with the (family) motto Dum Spiro Spero (While I breathe, I hope), our family crest also symbolises strength in adversity. Adversity is a word that often has a negative connotation, but over the years, I have learnt that it can also be your greatest tool. Sometimes what seems like a terrible blow or crushing defeat can be turned into a springboard for success in life. Even if it feels like the entire world is against you and you can come back and defy the odds.” She also draws strength from her long-time coach Sally Elwell who is her go-to when she needs advice on horses or life. “I was also fortunate enough to get to know Marcus Ehning while I was working in Germany. His work ethic and drive were such an eyeopener. The day after winning the 2006 World Cup Final he was straight back out there training for the next one. And then there are the likes of Steve Jobs, Nelson Mandela and Muhammed Ali who are a few tenacious people who have influenced me greatly over the years through their ability to follow through on their visions, despite facing incredible adversity along the way.” Lucy gives back to several community charities too, including the Achilles International Foundation, a worldwide organisation that empowers people with all types of disabilities to participate in mainstream running events. “I met some of these athletes three years ago during the Rotorua Marathon and was so inspired that I wanted to get involved.” She now works with them as a guide and supporter and says it is one of the most fulfilling experiences she has ever been involved in. She hopes too that one day she will be able to compete her horses in the Global Champions Tour, but there is a lot that needs to happen between now and then. “Never let your struggles define you,” she says, “or give up on the goals that set your heart on fire. There is always an answer to everything.” And she is determined to make sure that’s a positive outcome. C

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WE’RE SERIOUS ABOUT EQUINE NUTRITION

SPECIAL FEATURE

PATHWAY

to the PODIUM WORDS Cheyenne Nicholson

PHOTOS Eye Witness Photography

AC/DC said it best – “It’s a long way to the top”. The path to the podium in the equestrian world is paved with determination, dedication and passion. We spoke to four emerging riders who are on their way to being future stars in the equestrian world, and asked them about their pathways to the top. We discuss everything from finding a balance in life through to those pesky bad habits that they just can’t seem to break.

“Success isn’t always about greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson 26

Ella Wylie

Invercargill teenager Ella Wylie, 15, has been riding for most of her life. With consistent placings on the show jumping circuit on her pony MF Spot Me, including 5th place in the 2018 Pony of the Year and 4th in the Country TV Pony Grand Prix Series, Ella is set to be one to watch for the future. HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING FOR? I have been riding for about 11 years.

WHAT MAKES YOU EXCITED ABOUT RIDING EACH DAY? I like not knowing the challenges my ponies will have in store for me. Both of my ponies have their own little quirks that constantly surprise me and sometimes catch me off guard. WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR LAST SEASON? The highlight probably would have been coming 4th in the Country TV Pony Grand Prix Series. Placing in the series had been a goal of mine since I started competing at Pony Grand Prix level, so it was amazing to achieve that. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE NEXT SEASON? To be consistent and do well at Pony Grand Prix Level on MF Spot Me. I would also like to step up to this level on Burma Milly. WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY FROM A HORSE EVENT? Definitely placing fifth in the 2018 Pony of the Year class. Ever since I started riding it had been my goal to compete in POY, so it was amazing just to do that, let alone to get placed! I also have many great memories with friends at horse shows. That’s something I love about this sport – it allows you to meet new people and create great friendships and memories. IF YOU COULD PICK AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE? Definitely the World Cup Final! FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND YOUR WEEKEND? At a show jumping event with all my good friends. Or if a show isn’t on, I love going for a hack along Oreti Beach with my mum and my brother Scott. The ponies thoroughly enjoy that too.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF EQUESTRIAN CLOTHING OR BRAND? I love my Cavalleria Toscana jodhpurs! I also love the tack from Hinterland.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF RIDING AT YOUR LEVEL? I love the places that show jumping takes me and the friendships it creates. During the competitive season I get to travel all around the South Island, and we sometimes go to the North Island for Horse of the Year.

WHAT IS THE BEST TRAINING ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? The best advice I’ve had came from my coach, Jill Ullrich. She told me that to do my round well, I not only have to know where I’m going, but how I’m going to get there. From this, I learned the importance of taking full advantage of a course walk. She taught me the significance of figuring out my striding, understanding the line I need to take to give my pony the best approach to a jump, and figuring out the other factors that may affect my pony, like spooking at the gate or at spectators. This advice really helps me to give my pony the best ride in the ring that I possibly can. WHAT IS YOUR WORST HABIT THAT YOU CANNOT BREAK? My worst habit would be not having my lower leg on properly. It often slips

forward, and I have to re-correct it back to where it belongs! My coach is constantly telling me off for this and threatening to take my stirrups off me. I work on improving it by doing lots of nostirrup work at home.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST TIP FOR STAYING STRESS-FREE AT AN EVENT? Stay organised and always know when your classes are. It is the most stressful thing to be late for a class and then you get rushed with your course walk and warm-up. It does not allow you to give your horse the best ride possible.

DO YOU HAVE A PRE-EVENT ROUTINE?

Not really. I like to give my horses a long walk so they can stretch their legs out, especially since we live in Invercargill, so we have to travel long distances to shows and they spend a lot of time standing in the truck.

HOW DOES RIDING IMPROVE YOUR LIFE?

It teaches me such vital life skills. From riding I have learned organisational skills, how to handle pressure, to play fair in my sport, how to manage success and disappointment, and much more.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE RIDING WITH SCHOOL, FRIENDS AND FAMILY? Sometimes it can be pretty hard to manage keeping my ponies fit and healthy in between attending school, playing sports and after school activities. However, with the help of my Mum and Dad, this is all made possible. I am forever grateful for them and how much they support me.

WHAT OTHER SPORTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN? I’ve done a bit of volleyball, netball, skiing and water sports.

DO YOU HAVE A NEED FOR SPEED? Most definitely! Ever since I was little, I have loved going fast on my ponies, pushing the turns and taking the angles to the limit. I love it when everyone’s times are close and competitive in the jump-off, and you are pushed to give it your best shot.

Sam Gradowski-Smith

PHOTOS Libby Law Photography

At 15 years old, Sam Gradowski-smith already has a healthy looking competition CV. The Auckland dressage rider had a stellar 18/19 season winning the 2019 Dressage Pony of the year (level 3) and winning the FEI-CDI-P. Sam is proving that with dedication and hard work success in the arena will follow.

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.” Conrad Hilton 28

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING? I have been in horse yards since I was a baby. I started with Mum just leading me around and once we moved to New Zealand, I started actual lessons when I was six. WHAT DISCIPLINE DO YOU RIDE IN? I’m a dressage rider. I decided when I was nine that it was something that I wanted to do. It hasn’t been easy at times, being a boy that rides dressage has meant I have been bullied at school, but it’s what I want to do and I have stuck with it. I do jump at home for fun and to give my horses variety, but dressage is my first love. WHAT MAKES YOU EXITED ABOUT RIDING EACH DAY? Really, it all comes down to progress. The desire to improve and to rise up through the levels coupled with the relationship I form with my horses. It’s all about real teamwork.

WHAT ARE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR LAST SEASON? That’s a hard one. The season has had so many highlights so it’s hard to pick just one. I think riding in an international class – the FEI CDI-P – was a goal I had always wanted to achieve and I will never forget that experience. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR NEXT SEASON?

I would love to have the opportunity to ride another FEI-CDI-P over winter. My mare and I are training to contest Level 4 next season.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY FROM ANY HORSE EVENT? This season has created some fantastic memories, winning titles I just didn’t expect. But there has always been a special memory when training, and that was when Charlotte Dujardin came to New Zealand about three years ago. I was fortunate that, through Greg Smith, I got to have a lesson with Charlotte. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget.

WHAT EVENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ATTEND? After watching our Kiwi riders recently compete in Sydney, I would love to travel over to Australia and compete internationally. I think that would be such an amazing feeling and I’d love to ride for NZ one day. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND THE WEEKEND? I like to get a balance between riding my horses and hanging out with my friends. I am also lucky that we have a great community at the horse shows, so there are horsey friends to hang out with there as well. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF EQUESTRIAN CLOTHING OR BRAND? I love shopping for horsey stuff! I like a few different brands – Le Mieux, Beyond the Bit, and recently I purchased a KASK riding helmet and am really liking it.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF RIDING AT YOUR LEVEL? I am very fortunate to have access to great training from Grand Prix level dressage trainers Nicky Daulton and Vanessa Way, who have helped me be where I am today. I also get to see so much of NZ by travelling to events. It’s awesome to see new places and continue to meet new people along the way.

WHAT IS THE BEST TRAINING ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? Ride accurately in the dressage arena.

WHAT IS THE WORST HABIT THAT YOU CANNOT BREAK?

Worrying before I enter an arena, and being quite hard on myself, especially if things haven’t gone quite to plan.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST TIP AT STAYING STRESS-FREE AT AN EVENT? This is one I have really worked on this season. Being organised, having a good routine to work through really helps. I have very supportive trainers who I can turn to and chat things through with.

DO YOU HAVE A PRE-EVENT ROUTINE? I suspect ours is just like other yards. We try to ensure the horses are feeling as well as they can. We not only use an Equissage and solarium for maintenance at home, but we also have an attending physio who we bring in as much as needed, along with other professionals we work with to help our horses get to an event feeling good.

HOW DOES RIDING IMPROVE YOUR LIFE? Riding has taught me some important qualities, including discipline. I have been fortunate to have experienced a lot of success this season, but the journey hasn’t always been that way. I have learned to accept that life doesn’t always go to plan. On a personal level, riding keeps me fit and has given me experiences in life that others don’t get the opportunity to do.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE RIDING WITH WORK, FRIENDS AND FAMILY? This is something I have been working on. I make time now for friends to create a good balance. It can be hard with the demands of school, but equally my school is very understanding. I am lucky that Mum is also an equestrian so as a family, we share a common interest. Dad is often found at shows too which makes it a family pastime.

WHAT OTHER SPORTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN? Over the years I’ve played basketball and football, but as I got older riding became a bigger part of my life. I have focused on riding for a long time to do it justice. Though I can be found watching rugby on the TV in the weekends too! DO YOU HAVE A NEED FOR SPEED?

I do love the occasional blast around our family property on my brother’s motorbike.

Sophia Donnelly

PHOTOS Show Circuit Magazine

Sophia’s done a bit of everything in her equestrian career from carriage driving to showing and dressage. She’s even completed a steeplechase! Aboard her trusty aptly named horse Limitless, Sophia took out the Paced and Mannered Saddle Hunter title at Horse of the Year 2019.

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” Colin Powell 30

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING? Since I was a toddler. WHAT CODE DO YOU RIDE IN? I used to event when I had more time, but I currently compete in showing, dressage and Show Hunter. I also do carriage driving with my part-bred Welsh ponies.

WHAT MAKES YOU EXCITED ABOUT RIDING EACH DAY? The prospect of unlocking the potential in a horse and learning new skills along the way. No ride is ever the same! THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR LAST SEASON?

Winning the Paced and Mannered Saddle Hunter title at Horse of the Year on Limitless (Tui).

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR NEXT SEASON? Instead of setting goals for a whole season, I prefer to plan from competition to competition. That way I can stay flexible and adjust my goals accordingly. There are so many unknowns in working with horses, and you can set yourself up for a whole heap of disappointment if you're not careful. I'd like to be back competing at HOY again next season with Tui, but we’ll see.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY FROM A HORSE EVENT? Completing the steeplechase section of the old long format at Taupo 3DE. It was absolutely thrilling! Also, the feeling of my first win at HOY last season on my only homebred horse (Tui). It's very rewarding to train a horse through from day one. IF YOU COULD PICK AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE? Either the World Equestrian Festival at Aachen or the World Equestrian Games, due to the variety of disciplines available to watch and the elite standard of each discipline.

FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND YOUR WEEKEND?

My favourite way to spend my weekend is spending time with my horses (competing or otherwise), relaxing with my family and friends, and working on our property (currently a DIY project). I like to keep balance in my life as much as I can.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF EQUESTRIAN CLOTHING OR BRAND? I buy most of my gear second-hand – good quality items will last forever if they are looked after. I love my everyday pair of Eurostar breeches and my Ariat boots. They stand up to daily wear and tear brilliantly. For the horses, Sparrow Saddlery leather goods are hard to beat. I've found the Canter for Cancer rugs seem to be a great fit on all my horses, from the 12hh ponies through to my 17.2hh warmblood.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF RIDING AT YOUR LEVEL?

I get to ride alongside some incredibly talented riders and horses who continually inspire me to keep improving. Many people are also very friendly and helpful and are more than happy to share advice and training tips to help you along the way.

WHAT IS THE BEST TRAINING ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? Understanding that there will always be another day has become a clearer objective as I get older. If it’s not working for you today, get off and try again tomorrow. For me, riding with a smile and enjoying your horse are the most important aspects. The results will come with time, perseverance and consistency.

WHAT IS YOUR WORST HABIT THAT YOU CANNOT BREAK?

My time management – I always think I've allowed far more time to get organised than I really have!

WHAT IS YOUR BEST TIP FOR STAYING STRESS-FREE AT AN EVENT? Get to an event as early as possible to give your horse time to settle

and take in his/her surroundings. Locate your rings/arenas and the event office. Also, ensure you have plenty of food and water, so you don't get hangry throughout the day!

DO YOU HAVE A PRE-EVENT ROUTINE?

I usually travel to events by myself, so I try to have as much done as possible before I leave home, for example, have the horse washed and plaited. Once I’m there, if I have time, I’ll jump on and have a hack around, but if not, I will get ready and get on, trying to give myself at least 20 minutes to warm in.

HOW DOES RIDING IMPROVE YOUR LIFE? In every way. Riding keeps balance in my life. I've had horses since I was a toddler so I can't imagine what a life without them would be like! There is nothing better than a warm summer's evening hack after a busy day at work to put the world to rights. Riding improves both my physical and mental well-being. HOW DO YOU BALANCE RIDING WITH YOUR CAREER, WORK, FRIENDS, FAMILY OR KIDS? In all honesty it can be difficult at times, but I'm very lucky to have an incredibly supportive (non-horsey) partner, Mike, and my mum, Anne, who help out with the horses. My employer (Matamata Veterinary Services) is also very understanding when I need time off for the farrier, competitions etc. I try to balance out the number of weekends I have away competing with spending time at home or catching up with family and friends. But you do have to sacrifice some things if you want to be competitive and maintain structure to your daily routine.

WHAT OTHER SPORTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN? I like to add cycling, walking or kayaking into my week where I can as a form of cross fitness. I also enjoy snowboarding and skiing in the winter months. DO YOU HAVE A NEED FOR SPEED? Definitely! There is nothing better than going for a good gallop down a long beach to blow out the cobwebs!

Georgie Dickson

PHOTOS Eye Witness Photography

Eighteen-year-old Georgie Dickson once caused havoc in a School Pony class at the Wanaka Show in a desperate bid to clap eyes on Richie McCaw. These days, she’s best known for her skills on the eventing circuit. The Lincoln University student placed sixth in the 2* Championship Class at the NRM National Three-Day Eventing Champs this season, and has her eyes firmly fixed on reaching 3* level in the future.

“For success, attitude is equally as important as ability.” Walter Scott 32

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN RIDING FOR?

About 14 years. I was four years old when my mum brought my first pony Tommy home in the pig trailer. The pigs were upgraded to the back of the Land Cruiser, and the bacon went onto the back seat!

WHAT CODE DO YOU RIDE IN? I mainly compete in eventing, with a little bit of show jumping and round-the-ring when we can fit it in, and lots of hunting in the winter.

WHAT MAKES YOU EXCITED ABOUT RIDING EACH DAY? I have always been someone who loves the outdoors and animals, so riding is the ultimate sport that combines both these pleasures.

WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR LAST SEASON?

Finishing sixth at the NRM National Three Day Eventing Championships in the 2* Championship class against a pretty competitive field.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR NEXT SEASON? To improve my dressage and do some show jumping, which will hopefully enable me to step up to 3* on Tigger by the end of next season.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY FROM A HORSE EVENT? When I was 11 years old, I went to the Wanaka Show, and it was announced that Richie McCaw was going to be presenting the prizes in the show ring the next day. My friends and I had not been planning on doing the showing classes, but we quickly changed our minds. We got busy washing and plaiting and scheming ideas on how to best get Richie’s attention. The final plan was to fall off and require CPR! Unfortunately, Richie was a no-show, leading to a very disappointing day – only saved by the fun and chaos we all caused in the School Pony class. That was the final time School Pony was allowed at the show – we had a bit too much fun!

DO YOU HAVE A PRE-EVENT ROUTINE? Yes, though obviously it changes for different horses. With Tigger, I try to keep him fresh with a gentle, fun hack the day before we travel to an event, like a

such a prestigious event, and to see the cross-country live would be amazing.

Just being around horses improves my life, because they are such intelligent animals and they try so hard for you, which is what I love about them.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND YOUR WEEKEND?

HOW DO YOU BALANCE RIDING WITH STUDYING, FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

IF YOU COULD PICK AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND, WHICH ride on the beach or to the river. ONE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Badminton Horse Trials, because it is HOW DOES RIDING IMPROVE YOUR LIFE? Jet-boating adventures

with my family.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE OF EQUESTRIAN CLOTHING OR BRAND? My favourite brand is Rainworthy Clothing, which is designed and made by Jessica Elworthy, who is my third grandmother. She’s actually Milly Rowley’s grandmother, but I have lived with the Rowley family for the past six years. Jessica has kindly made all my shirts and stocks, which are even embroidered individually with my name.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF RIDING AT YOUR LEVEL? It’s so much fun and the people I do it with always make it an adventure, no matter where we go. WHAT IS THE BEST TRAINING ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? My dressage coach Penny Castle always says “Train the opposite of how your horse naturally wants to go.”

WHAT IS THE WORST HABIT YOU CANNOT BREAK?

I have terrible shoulders – my left one always drops, and they both have the tendency to roll forwards. It is frustrating!

WHAT IS YOUR BEST TIP FOR STAYING STRESS-FREE AT AN EVENT? Take lots of Rescue Remedy and try not to over-think it.

Because I came from an isolated station on the east side of Lake Hawea, riding would not be possible without everyone who supports me, including my parents and grandparents, who often travel great distances to come to events. Eventing is definitely a very time-consuming sport, and I would not have been able to compete without the support of my second family, the Rowleys, who I have lived with for the past six years for school. This year, I’m lucky enough to flat with Milly Rowley, who supports and challenges me. I am currently a full-time student at Lincoln University and am fortunate that where I live is all set up for horses, which makes life so much easier. Time management is critical, but this year, it has worked well so far thanks to my support crew.

WHAT OTHER SPORTS HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN? I play rugby for the Lincoln Ewes, which is the university club. It is a great sport, and I have met some awesome girls through it. DO YOU HAVE A NEED FOR SPEED? I believe you can only apply speed on horses once you have everything else in place. But yes, I do like to go fast, and one of the best things about living in Christchurch has been galloping on the beach. I like to go fast in boats and on skis as well! C

EQUITANA Auckland is gearing up to be the ultimate equine show. Following the record-breaking 20th anniversary of EQUITANA Melbourne 2018, the New Zealand EQUITANA team is proud to bring you the biggest names in equestrian sport this November. Leading these stars is none other than 2x Olympic Gold Medalist – Sir Mark Todd; Multi-World Title Holder and Reining Hall of Fame Trainer – Al Dunning, along with Internationally Celebrated Grand Prix Dressage Rider and ‘TRT Method’ Creator – Tristan Tucker. And there is more – we have an incredible array of educators, some superb top-flight competition across the disciplines with New Zealand Open titles on the line for some, the mesmerising The Way of The Horse where a handful of well-respected trainers have just four days to turn an unhandled horse from wild to willing, and then there is the shopping.

WHY A SUPER TICKET? Because it truly is the very best option. A Super Ticket will give you access to absolutely everything... and we mean everything – from masterclasses to night shows and everything in between. But don’t wait around twiddling your thumbs – these $285 beauties – worth more than $450 – will walk right out the door. With limited numbers on offer, get yours today.

PLAN YOUR EQUITANA Here’s the low down on each day, but it doesn’t stop there. With several demo areas and over 30 educators doing an array of sessions through the four days, plus over 100 traders to shop til’ you drop - just one day won’t be enough. Tickets start from just $35, but here’s our run down of what makes each day at EQUITANA so special...

EVENTING SHOWCASE Thursday Full Day Ticket - $125 Thursday (November 21) is the Eventing Showcase. Sir Mark Todd gives his masterclass in the early afternoon and is the star attraction at the evening show. The Way of the Horse gets underway with the horse selection and first challenge. There is also dressage, show hunter and express eventing competitions.

DRESSAGE SHOWCASE Friday Full Day Ticket - $115 Friday (November 22) is the Dressage Showcase. The amazing Tristan Tucker – inventor of the TRT Method – will share his secrets at his dressage masterclass. He’s sought the world over for his training methods and here’s your chance to see it firsthand. Our evening show is a dressage extravaganza featuring inter I, Grand Prix and freestyle to music. See the very best go head to head, and even better – watch it all from the VIP room.

JUMPING SHOWCASE Saturday Full Day Ticket - $115 Saturday (November 23) is the Jumping Showcase. It’s a day filled with excitement, entertainment and top-flight competition. From the jumping masterclass through to the EQUITANA Elite Sport Horse Auction, the 1.15m young rider, 1.35m senior rider and the Mercedes-Benz Six Bar and rounded off with Full Flight Jump Night and the 1.6m Grand Prix.

HORSEMANSHIP SHOWCASE Sunday Full Day Ticket - $100 Sunday (November 24) is the Horsemanship Showcase. American Al Dunning is a multi-world title holder and in the Reining Hall of Fame. He’s an all-rounder sought out as much for his equine talents as his competition prowess and judging expertise. He will be sharing it all during his masterclass. Sunday is also the grand finale of TWOTH where it will be edge-of-your seat stuff to see who has made the most progress with their previously unhandled youngsters.

INTERVIEW WORDS Mandy Cooper IMAGES Cornege Photography

“There’s something about horse people that keeps us coming back time and time again and whatever it is, I think us Moffetts have got the bug.”

THE MOFFETT FAMILY FROM NAPIER HAVE BUILT THEIR SUCCESS ON A FOUNDATION OF GRIT, GUTS AND MAKING-DO, WITH A GOOD DOSE OF HUMOUR ALONG THE WAY.

rom day one, Kellie and Jonty Moffett have used their passion for horses to help them raise their four children. “We’ve viewed the horses as a tool to try and keep the kids focused, and to instil resilience, principles and ethics like looking after your animals, hard work and determination,” Kellie says. “The biggest prizes aren’t always the ribbons.” Alongside the work ethic, there have also been plenty of ribbons for the Moffett children, whose successes include holding regional and national titles across different disciplines, being selected for national teams, and competing overseas. Will (21), Mollie (20), Tom (18) and Annie (12) were all destined to spend time in the saddle, as their parents’ love for the sport runs deep. The kids all first learnt to ride on a donkey called Flossy at their orchard in Fernhill, near Napier. The eldest three continued on a borrowed pony called Sparkles, sharing him at sports meetings in their early riding days. They soon graduated to the lead-rein ring, and at one point, all three kids were competing in the same lead-rein class sharing two ponies at the Hawke’s Bay A&P Show. By the time Annie came along, she had just a few rides on Flossy the donkey before moving onto one of the lead-rein ponies. When their kids were riding, parents Kellie and Jonty were never far away. They always went the extra mile, sometimes literally, to enable their kids to succeed and enjoy themselves. “We laugh about it now, but when we did lead-rein, I used to get into all those crazy outfits,” recalls Kellie. “Jonty is an absolute, total farmer type and I’d make him get into a suit, which is so not him, but he did it anyway. Then, when the kids first started hunting, he ran around the hills in his sandshoes, leading them on their ponies, following the hunt for hours. People would say ‘well, I’ve never seen that before!’”

Variety is the spice of life From lead-rein to hunting, pony club, eventing, Show Hunter, showing and show jumping – the Moffetts have done it all. In the early days, the family used Kellie’s childhood float and a very basic triple angle loader that Jonty built to cart the children and ponies to events around the country. Eventually, they bought a basic nine-horse truck with a tiny living area that they would pack into like sardines – until recently, when they decided to gut it, redo the living and turn it into a six-horse truck instead. To save time and money, Jonty has always shod their team of horses, guided

NZ IMPORTER, DISTRIBUTOR AND SALES p: 09 297 7564 m: 027 4929226 e: info@prestigeequestrian.co.nz FB: Prestige Equestrian Ltd

www.prestigeequestrian.co.nz 37

“The biggest prizes aren’t always the ribbons.” by other established farriers, and Kellie’s sister, equine vet Andrea Gibbs. When they are not away competing, the Moffetts own and operate an orchard specialising in cropping, apples, melons and honeybees. They also have a homemade arena in their back yard, built by Jonty 10 years ago. As the kids began to grow, the Moffetts searched high and low for cheap ‘bargain’ ponies. “Jonty prides himself on being a tight old bugger,” Kellie says affectionately. One of their greatest ponies, Tane Mahuta, came into their family ten years ago as a green-broke coloured stationbred stallion. Due to his limited experience, Tane was dirt cheap. Ten years, copious ribbons and placings and two Pony of the Year qualifications (with Will and Tom) later, Tane has earned his keep and is now being ridden by Annie. His story is not unique to the

Moffett household – they have created their own luck by producing horses that others may have never given a chance. Another of their standout ponies cost just $500 and was destined to be shot. Will got Piripi, a coloured stationbred gelding, five years ago as a four-year-old. The pony was said to be naughty and the owner did not think he should be ridden by a child. However Will, then aged sixteen, set out to prove that theory wrong, and the following year they won the Category C Pony Show Hunter of the Year title, amongst many others. Earlier this year, Piripi and Annie won the Pony Hunter of the Year crown.

Highs and lows Although the Moffett family has taken out many titles and wins, it hasn’t always come up roses and red ribbons. The children have had to learn how to work hard in order to succeed, and to pick themselves

“Mum and Dad have always created opportunities for us. Whatever we’ve done, we’ve had to work for it, but they’ve facilitated things for us to make that work so much easier.”

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A family mission statement. Proud parents Jonty and Kellie Moffett. An array of trophies and photos can be found in the Moffett family home.

up when things haven’t gone to plan. A few years ago, Annie fell off Tane five times at HOY. The following Monday, days after her spills and without any prompting, she woke in the tiny hours of the morning to ride the pony in the dark before school. Kellie vividly remembers how disappointed Will was many years ago after being asked by officials to leave an event as his challenging young Show Hunter pony was stopping and sliding into every single jump they faced. Will later won several national Show Hunter titles on different ponies. These days, Will believes having to train his own mounts has ultimately made him a better rider. “When we were younger we were saying ‘Dad, come on, surely you can cough up and buy us a good pony’ but no, he always said ‘in the long run it’ll be better if you make your own’, and looking back, it absolutely was. You turn out a better rider for it and you’ve got a better relationship with your horses. Credit to everyone who does it – there’s heaps of people out there like us,” he adds. The Moffetts are not shy in declaring that not every pony they’ve had was a superstar, but that was also part of their journey. “While some ponies have given us success with trips, titles and teams, the ponies that never made it into the show ring have also played a big part in raising the kids. And they’ve definitely given us the best stories to tell!” Jonty says. Every time the Moffett family drives out the farm gate in the early hours of the morning on their way to another horse event, Jonty insists that everyone does their ‘cowboy yell’, which means screaming “Yee-Haw!” in their loudest possible voice. This has long been a family tradition – one that Annie has decided might be a bad luck charm – but it provides a moment of laughter on those sometimes stressful mornings. Remembering not to take life too seriously has kept the family moving through the inevitable highs and lows of equestrian sport. While Will says he didn’t understand the “method behind the madness” as a kid, he has grown to recognise how it all fitted into place. “Mum and Dad have always created opportunities for us. Whatever we’ve done, we’ve had to work for it, but they’ve facilitated things for us to make that work so much easier.”

Moving on Kellie and Jonty competed in low-level competitions themselves before having children, and they have passed down their passion for horses in the same way that their own parents did for them. Jonty is the chairman of Show Jumping Hawke’s Bay - a shareholder in the Horse of the Year Show. When an opening came up for a member to gain a position on the HOY board, Jonty knew just the person for the role, and in 2017, Will became the youngest board member by about 20 years. “It’s something that I’ve really enjoyed,” Will says. “I’ve been going to HOY for 19 years now, and seeing it all while wearing a different hat is really cool. I’m excited for the future of the show. Although I’m a lot younger than the rest of the board, I think if we were all the same Joe Bloggs then there would be no point in having a board, so it’s a dynamic that makes it interesting”. Will and Tom both competed successfully up to Grand Prix level in show jumping, including Pony of the Year, and Will has competed in show jumping in South Africa, England and Colombia. Mollie is an accomplished showing rider, and eventer – making several pony club teams alongside many working hunter and Show Hunter titles from HOY. Annie already has a few national titles to her name as she blazes her own path in the equestrian world. During many of these times, show jumper Jesse Linton lived and breathed horses with their family, before moving on to other opportunities. The three eldest children still have a strong connection to the sport, but have put their studies first for now. Since being part of the Moffett family also means funding your own tertiary study, Tom has been selling beautiful garden ornaments made of horseshoes and will be attending Canterbury University next year to study engineering. He traded in early morning trips to horse shows at the age of 14, in favour of rowing, which involved attending as many as 11 training sessions a week. Mollie has been working in a shearing gang for the last year-anda-half to fund her next step in life, Jonty would love her to join the bee business in time. Up until recently, when she got her mare in foal and sold the last of her project ponies, she could still be found riding in the dark at the end of a long day.

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“While some ponies have given us success with trips, titles and teams, the ponies that never made it into the show ring have also played a big part in raising the kids.” Will is in his third year at Dunedin’s Otago University after funding his way into a double degree in Law and Arts. Even at the other end of the country, he finds himself drawn to the horses, and now volunteers for Dunedin’s Riding for the Disabled. Despite all his success, Will says one of his fondest memories with horses goes right back to their earliest hunting days, when the whole family was out either riding or helping at their local Hawke’s Bay Hunt Club. “Horses aren’t a sport, they’re a lifestyle. There is something about them that keeps you coming back when you get knocked down, quite literally. There’s something about horse people that keeps us coming back time and time again and whatever it is, I think us Moffetts have got the bug. We’ve also made some great friends and we couldn’t have done it without lots of help from the wider equestrian community there, are so many people who have helped us along the way.” From time to time, when they are home for the weekend, the family can still be found out hunting with Jonty and Annie.

More to come As the youngest child in the Moffett family, Annie has inherited many talented ponies that her siblings have taken up the ranks before her – but they still pose a challenge. The first time Annie rode Tane Mahuta in what was meant to be

a low-level, confidence-building event, he heard the start bell and took off, jumping fences from all directions, eliminating Annie and forcing Kellie into the ring in a desperate bid to help Annie slow him down. Yet Annie still got back on and rode Tane again, the same way she had watched her siblings get back on after a bad day. At the tender age of 12, she has already discovered what it means to be an equestrian. “It takes work and lots of bad days to get the good ones,” she says. “It’s not just about the competitions. There’s all the practicing and care that goes with it, and if I don’t do my schoolwork or jobs at home, I don’t get to ride.” Like her siblings before her, Annie attends Flaxmere Pony Club, the same pony club that Kellie attended as a child. Annie has big dreams, and her ultimate goal is to follow in Tom and Will’s hoofprints by competing in Pony of the Year. She’s also already looking to the future, and rattled all of her pocket money together to buy herself a hack with a little bit of breeding behind it. Her coloured mare is a War Paint-Thoroughbred cross, lovingly called Sam. Kellie and Jonty went halves with Annie to help her afford Sam, and last season they competed up to 1.10m together. If the history of the Moffett family is anything to go by, Sam and Annie will be a force to be reckoned with in the future. C

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INTERVIEW WORDS Cheyenne Nicholson

Searching for Unicorns

We all do it – that late-night scroll through For Sale advertisements, hoping, dreaming, and wishing to find ‘the one’ – your new partner in life that will help you to reach all your goals and set exciting new ones.

Buying a new horse is a massive step for every rider, no matter what level you’re at. But while exciting, the prospect of purchasing a new horse can also be frustrating at times, and when the price tag comes with several zeros on the end, your new horse becomes more than just a pet – it’s an investment. It can often be a risky investment too, which makes finding the right horse for your current situation all the more critical. With a lot to think about and consider during the purchasing process, we spoke with three seasoned horse-buying professionals to get their advice on finding your very own unicorn.

OUR EXPERTS JOANNE BRIDGMAN

JODY HARTSTONE

DR ALEC JORGENSEN

Joanne comes from a show jumping background and is one of the most wellknown and respected people in the equine selling world, both in New Zealand and internationally. She has sourced all manner of horses, from top-class eventers for Sir Mark Todd and William Fox-Pitt, through to Pony Club mounts for local clients.

Jody is a Grand Prix dressage rider who has spent her entire career living and breathing horses. She is a well-known name and face on the national equestrian scene, and has been successfully selling horses on behalf of their owners for a good many years, from ponies and hunters through to dressage horses.

Alec has a background of residency training in equine sports medicine and lameness in the USA, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners Equine Specialty. He takes responsibility for sales horses within the practice and has worked with some of the top names in equestrian sport in the country. He is highly soughtafter for his expertise.

QUALITY NZ HORSES

HARTSTONE EQUESTRIAN

WAIKATO EQUINE VETERINARY CENTRE

WHAT DOES YOUR UNICORN LOOK LIKE?

Unicorns come in all shapes and sizes, depending on the rider’s age, stage and ambitions in their riding career. There are a lot of questions to think about and answer before you embark on your purchasing journey. What are the essential attributes you want in your new horse? What do you intend to do with the horse? What are your current capabilities as a rider? What are your goals? Do you have a full-time job that may affect the type of horse you need? Do you lean towards ‘hotter’ horses or ‘kick-along’ types? And most importantly, are you being honest and realistic with your expectations?

1. HAVE A BRIEF JOANNE'S ADVICE: Try to be flexible

"When someone is advertising a horse, it has to fit both your brief and your budget, with a degree of flexibility in there," says Joanne Bridgman, who has sourced potential horses for everyone from Sir Mark Todd to local Pony Club riders. "When I'm helping people find a horse, I want to know exactly what their goals are, and some specific information on their ideal horse. I also need to know their level and experience to figure out their capability, so that I'm not showing them horses that aren't suitable." While no horse will fit a brief perfectly, Joanne says having a base to work from helps to thin down the list of potential steeds. On the flipside of this, she says that she sees a lot of people get too fixated and picky with their brief, often leading to unrealistic expectations. "People get very caught up on age and height," she says. "These days horses go to the Olympics aged 18 or 19, but a lot of people discount older horses. They'll want a schoolmaster, but want its age to be in single digits; you just don't get young schoolmasters. Height can be deceiving too, as often the depth of the horse's girth or the width of the horse is more important than one or two inches of wither height." Despite the common misconception that horses should be flashy, amazing movers, Joanne says that athletic horses with correct conformation and a good, trainable brain are most important. Good quality paces, good instincts in front of a jump and the desire to be careful while jumping are crucial elements. "Scope, on the other hand, I think, can be a bit overrated these days, unless you are aiming for high-level show jumping. Even then, in my experience, many horses can surprise you when given time to mature fully, the right training and the right rider. And if you are looking to target the upper levels, it's so important to find a trainable horse. "When you first see a horse, you have to really like it – in other words, it catches your eye. When you ride the horse, even if it doesn't go perfectly, you have to like being on it. It is probably the most important thing. I believe it is called 'chemistry between horse and rider' and it is essential that it just feels right."

JODY'S ADVICE:

Find a horse with potential

"You want to buy a horse you feel you can develop and work with to turn it into what you want," says Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer Jody Hartstone. "Sometimes people's expectations of what they think they're buying and what they get don't quite match up, but while no horse will tick all the boxes, it should have the potential to tick them eventually." Jody also advises people to make sure you get a passport or a breed registration certificate from a reputable breed society for any horse you are buying because of its European bloodlines – and especially for a horse you may wish to breed from in the future. "You need those papers to verify the horse's bloodlines and age – having the DNA tested as part of this process can be vital. There was an incident recently where someone paid a lot of money for

“You're not training a horse when you try it. You just want to get a feel for it and test it sensibly. You have to have respect for the seller. Unless you're dealing with a professional, both parties are usually pretty nervous about the experience, so both sides need to be honest and open.”

Joanne Bridgman “You want to buy a horse you feel you can develop and work with to turn it into what you want. Sometimes people's expectations of what they think they're buying and what they get don't quite match up, but while no horse will tick all of your boxes, it should have the potential to tick them eventually.”

Jody Hartstone

a horse, had it for a few years and was breeding with it when the NZ Warmblood Association tested the DNA of the mare, and it turned out not to be sired by the famous stallion the owners were told it was by. Unfortunately, there are people out there who will lie about that sort of thing when there is money to be made. Overseas, you'd never buy a horse without papers, and it should be the same here in New Zealand."

WHEN YOU'RE SEARCHING FOR A NEW HORSE, KEEP THESE FIVE 2. BUDGET KEY ELEMENTS IN MIND TO MAKE THE PERFECT MATCH:

1 BRIEF

2 BUDGET

3 TEST RIDE

4 VET CHECK

5 SALE CONTRACT

When it comes to budgets, it can be hard to know what a horse is worth. The mid-age range horses, with mileage under their belt but years left in them, will come with a more significant price tag than older 'been there done that' horses. Both have pros and cons. While older horses tend to sell on the cheaper side, there are potential added costs as their health management and feed requirements may cost more. On the other hand, paying more money upfront for a mid-age range horse may not be possible for everyone. Your budget shouldn't merely be what you are prepared to pay outright for a horse, but also take the ongoing costs involved in horse ownership into consideration.

JODY'S ADVICE:

Only spend what you're prepared to lose

"I've always said to people, 'only be prepared to spend what you're prepared to lose'. Once you've spent that money, there's a chance you won't get it back. If you can't afford to lose $20,000, then don't spend it." Figuring out the correct market value of a horse can be tricky. While an astute equestrian can spot an overinflated price tag from a mile off, newcomers to the industry should make an effort to do their homework and find someone that is trustworthy and comes with an excellent reputation to help them to navigate their entry into horse ownership.

3. TEST RIDE

This is your chance to feel out the horse, figure out if it meets your needs and wants, and discover whether you get the right feeling from being on it. As a buyer, it can be intimidating getting on someone else's horse, but going in knowing what you're looking for and with a mental list of things you want to test or see the horse complete can help to steady those nerves. Taking someone else along, like a trainer, is also a great idea to get an extra opinion and help you navigate your way through a test ride, especially if you're new to buying horses.

JOANNE'S ADVICE:

Be respectful but make the most of the ride

While everyone approaches test rides differently, Joanne says an excellent starting point is seeing what the horse is like on the ground. Is the horse pushy or respectful of your space? What is it like to catch, tie, groom and tack up? "Ideally, get them to walk it up in a straight line on a firm surface and watch it," she suggests. "Then get them to trot up the horse to make sure it's sound and to see how it moves without tack on." When it comes to ridden work, always get the owner/ seller to ride the horse first before you climb aboard. While it might be tempting to test the limits with jumping, Joanne warns not to get too carried away. "You're not training a horse when you try it. You just want to get a feel for it and test it sensibly. You have to have

“I feel pretty strongly about wanting to do a five-stage exam in most situations. The difference principally is having a ridden phase. My reasoning is that a lot of the horses I see on a daily basis have subtle performance issues that are only apparent under saddle. They aren’t overtly lame, but have something bugging them that’s hindering their performance, like not wanting to maintain a canter lead one way.”

Dr Alec Jorgensen respect for the seller. Unless you're dealing with a professional, both parties are usually pretty nervous about the experience, so both sides need to be honest and open."

JODY'S ADVICE:

Test drive in multiple environments

Seeing a horse in different settings – on their own, in a group, at a show and so on – can give you a clearer picture of their suitability for you. At home, horses tend to be relaxed and are familiar with their surroundings; they know the cone in the corner of the arena isn't going to jump out at them and spook them. "I like to see horses working alone, out on a hack, and in company on the arena," says Jody. "Of course, this depends on horse and rider competence, and the seller's willingness to do this as well." Keeping an eye out for signs of separation anxiety is essential, as this potentially signals stress and training issues. Having the opportunity to get the horse in from the paddock yourself and spend some time with it is beneficial on many fronts, from knowing what it's like to catch through to tacking up. Jody says that second viewings can be a great chance to notice things you missed and reconfirm your thoughts from that first

trial, but the best test for any horse is to take it home for a month. "Not many sellers will let that happen," she admits, "but think about it from the horse's perspective. Their entire world changes overnight. A different saddle, bit, friends, grass – the whole lot. You can't expect a horse to be the same at a new home as it was when you tried it. They need time to settle and adjust." It's also ideal to take someone with you that you trust, for a second pair of eyes over the horse and a second opinion on its performance and suitability.

4. VET CHECK

Although most sellers are genuine and honest, animal health information can be lost if a horse has gone through multiple owners or if information has not been disclosed. Vet checks are a fact-finding mission to dig up any current issues, and can be a vital tool for both buyers and sellers. As part of the vet check process, sellers are required to fill out an Owner's Statement. This document contains a range of questions in which the current owner is asked to declare any knowledge of key veterinary issues that have occurred during their ownership, such as a history of lameness, colic or joint injections. Additionally, if the

veterinary practice performing the examination have previously done any work for the vendor, a Waiver of Information form will be signed, requiring the vet to review the clinical records of the horse held by the practice.

DR ALEC JORGENSEN: To vet check or not?

Dr Alec Jorgensen is a veterinarian at Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre, and says that one thing he always tries to get across is that vet checks should not be just be done on horses over a particular value. "This is just my opinion, and other vets may not agree, but I don't think it's a dollarbased thing," he says. "I don't think that the requirements for a vet check are linked to the value of the horse in any way." Alec says there is actually a good argument to be made that high-value horses with proven competition records, which are purchased for big money, likely don't have much wrong with them if they are out competing at high levels; therefore there may be less of a requirement for a vet check than for someone buying a horse for $5,000. "If people can afford a $20,000+ horse, they will likely be able to afford treatments or be in a position to on-sell and buy a new

horse if there is something wrong. The lower end of the price spectrum is where you're shopping in a market where horses will often have issues, and people save up to buy those horses and may not have the means to just go and purchase a new horse or take on the vet bills associated with the issue."

Two-stage or five-stage?

Alec feels pretty strongly about wanting to do a five-stage exam in most situations. "The principal difference is having a ridden phase. My reasoning is that a lot of the horses I see have subtle performance issues that are only apparent under saddle. They aren't overtly lame, but have something bugging them that's hindering their performance, like not wanting to maintain a canter lead one way, for example. If you don't see them being ridden, you wouldn't know the problem is there. Five-stage exams take the vet check that step further, beyond flexion tests and into seeing the horse in the environment it is intended for, doing what it's going to be asked to do." X-rays are a hot topic in the equestrian world, with plenty of debate over the relative benefits of doing (or not doing) them. While there are pros and cons to x-rays, Alec says it all boils

Have eyes on the ground, such as a trainer, or someone who is less likely to be emotionally invested in the purchase. 49

Purchasing or selling a horse can be either an exhilarating and fun process, or a frustrating and exhausting one

down to what your intentions are for the horse. He recommends not discounting buying a horse solely based on x-rays. "If you're purchasing a cheap young horse to bring on and sell then yes, x-rays are important. However, if you are purely looking for a horse to ride and compete with no intention of selling them, then perhaps x-rays aren't essential. The most important thing is that the horse is sound on the day. Horses can be unsound but have clean x-rays, and conversely, people often miss out on really good horses because of 'unclean' x-rays. "As a vet, you're looking for that rare issue that's significant but not presenting clinically at the time. The incidence of this is relatively low, but if there is something in the background that has a genuine risk of making the horse lame in the future, you obviously want to know about it." Flexion tests are yet another sticking point in the buying and selling space. "They need to be consistent and interpreted with common sense," Alec stresses. "I always want to see the horse lunged on a firm surface as well, but that surface also needs to be fair to the horse. We aren't trying to create a problem." Blood tests for drugs are becoming commonplace in the industry, which Alec says protects the sellers just as much as the buyers. "Horses can go lame at any time. At least if bloods have been done, the seller can prove the horse wasn't drugged [at the time of vetting] to cover up an issue." The legal obligations of vets are very stringent, and the process of vet checks is streamlined, so there should be consistency in what buyers and sellers are getting, regardless of which vet they use. "While different vets may do things in a different order and have different opinions, overall the process for a two-stage or a fivestage vet check will be the same, no matter which vet does it or where it is in the country," Alec says. "It can be frustrating for people who just want a 'quick check' because, as vets, we can't legally omit any stages of the examination. It's quite common for litigation to occur in a pre-purchase scenario."

IMAGE Christine Cornege Photography

What does it all mean?

Deciphering vet reports can be confusing. Legally, vets have to report on everything they find, but you should be cautious of looking too much into the details of the report and 'trying to be the vet'. The vet performing the examination for you should be able to give you a summary of what they have found and provide a clear explanation of what they perceive the significance of these findings to be. "Find a vet you trust and take the advice they are giving you, rather than getting bogged down in the minutiae of the details yourself," urges Alec. "Be especially wary of taking to your own internet research! Ultimately, you are paying for the vet's experience and advice, so make use of it and trust the information you are given." He adds that a vet check can be a useful tool to give you a baseline of the horse's current health status and an indication of any issues, but that vet checks cannot predict the future, nor can the vets who do them. "The decision of whether to buy a horse comes down to finding a balance between the veterinary risk represented by the horse, the price of the horse, and how much you like it or how suitable it is for your needs. If you can find a balance you are happy with, even a horse with a significant risk of issues can be purchased. Sometimes these can be your most successful buys! But you have to be clear in your mind that you really like the horse, and that you are buying it for a price that you can afford to lose if it all goes wrong."

5. CONTRACT OF SALE

Buying a horse is an investment, and to safeguard both buyers and sellers, having a 'Contract of Sale' is beneficial. Knowing your rights as a buyer (and seller) in terms of returning the horse, and

being clear about each party's responsibilities, can save a lot of heartache if things go wrong. There are multiple templates for 'Sales and Purchase Agreements' for horses available online and when in doubt, seek out professional help. We recommend FairPlay Legal Ltd, who write a column in each issue of Show Circuit. Megan is always happy to help, and can be reached at enquiries@fairplay.co.nz

DOS AND DON'TS OF BUYING A HORSE DO BE HONEST:

With horses, as in life, honesty is the best policy. Be honest about what you want, what your own abilities are, and what you can offer a horse – and be realistic in your expectations.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK:

Unfortunately, dishonest sellers do exist, and they often lure in inexperienced equestrians, which usually ends in a lot of heartache. Ask around about the person you’re buying from – if they have had dodgy dealings before, there will be a trail to find. For this reason, finding a reputable professional to work with can be extremely beneficial. Similarly, it’s often a good idea to ask around about the horse in question, especially if it’s outside of your local area. Try to find out if any of your friends or their acquaintances have seen the horse out and about or have competed against it in the past. This may save you some heartbreak later if the horse turns out to have a known history or bad reputation.

DO FIND TRUSTWORTHY AND REPUTABLE PEOPLE TO WORK WITH: From the trainer who’s helping you find a horse

through to the vet doing the vet check, make sure you’ve got the right people on your side. Having an experienced equestrian with you when you go to test ride is invaluable, and can help you to avoid sticky situations. When you go to see a horse, bring someone along with a camera or phone, and have them film as much as possible. You may notice things when you look back at the footage that you didn’t see or feel in the heat of the moment. As a buyer, your trainer knows your riding abilities and will be able to assess whether a particular horse is appropriate or not. Trainers are also likely to be less emotional about the purchase and look at the suitability factor.

DO GET A PURCHASE AGREEMENT:

As long as both parties are in agreement and understand what they mean. Then, should anything happen after the sale, both the buyer and the seller will be protected. It is best to get someone who understands the legal implications and have a proper agreement drawn up. No-one wants to get into a blame game when things go wrong, and they can.

DO HAVE TRANSPORT, GRAZING AND APPROVAL SORTED:

“I just need to clear this with my husband” or “I haven’t got any grazing sorted yet” are common lines that cause endless frustration for sellers. Have everything prepared for your new horse before you start your search.

DON’T BE A TYRE KICKER:

Selling a horse can be an emotionally fueled time for horse owners, and like everyone else, sellers have lives. Don’t contact a seller about a horse that’s well outside your budget or your capabilities.

DON’T BE TOO UNBENDING:

No one horse will tick all your ‘wants and needs’ boxes, so don’t discount horses who are missing a few box ticks.

DON’T RUSH IT:

Finding your very own unicorn can be a timeconsuming process and it could take a few test rides before you find ‘the one’. Take your time! C

INTERVIEW

Creating thedream

WORDS Rebecca Harper IMAGES Cornege Photography

In a bid to carve out the career of her dreams, NICKY FELTON combined her passion for horses with her love of communications and unexpectedly landed exactly where she wanted to be.

WHEN

Nicky Felton and her partner started their videography business in 2017, they never imagined their client list would include the likes of Waikato Stud and show jumper Amanda Wilson. As the younger sister of successful eventer Sam Lissington, Nicky evented to a high level too but admits she struggled with bravery on crosscountry and the pressures of the sport. The realisation she was not cut out for a high-level riding career opened the door to another path, one which allowed her to combine her passion for horses with her successful communications career. The result; self-made videography company Play Creative, which is now a full-time job for both she and partner Dan Franks, based in the Waikato. Nicky also commentates at championship shows for Equestrian Live, delivers talks, mentors athletes from High Performance Sport New Zealand and even had a stint as Eventing Sport Manager for Equestrian Sport New Zealand. “I’ve always had a tinge of jealousy for those people who knew what they wanted to do from a young age because that wasn’t me,” she explains. “My path has been and still is, a bit of a messy one. I’m a fan of working things out as I go along. Somehow, I’ve managed to pair up two of my big passions in life – horses and storytelling. Now I run my own business, and I get to work with amazing people. I’m pretty stoked with how things are shaping up.”

A COLOURFUL LIFE The Felton sisters had what could only be described as an unconventional, but rather a enthralling upbringing which included spending time living on a boat and an island. “I was born in Australia, and we sailed around the South Pacific on a boat from when I was five until I was seven – it was a creative start to life,” she says. “We were homeschooled during that time, and had some cool adventures.” Before and after the sailing years, the family also lived on Scotland Island, near the northern beaches of Sydney, where the sisters had to catch a ferry to school. “Our parents were non-horsey but very adventurous and creative. Dad was a really good sailor and taught Mum to sail. He had a full-on, well-paid banking job as a currency trader, but gave it up because they both felt they weren’t spending enough time with us – that’s why we went sailing.” On the family’s travels, they met a couple who were avocado farmers in New Zealand. “They’d pick the avocados in summer, cash the cheque and sail to Fiji for winter while the avocados were growing. Dad must have thought that sounded good and, though they knew nothing about avocado farming, we went to New Zealand and started an orchard from scratch.” The family ended up in Whangarei, Northland. As part of the deal, the girls were promised a pony. “They bribed us, essentially, and it worked. Poor Mum and Dad – they really had no idea what they were

getting themselves into then,” she reflects. The promised pony duly arrived, and the sisters taught themselves to ride on their farm. Sam was passionate about riding, and Nicky admits it was her older sister who led the charge. “Whatever Sam thought was cool, I’d jump on the bandwagon right behind her. We knew nothing about horses, so learnt as we went. We rode bareback, just in halters. We were barefoot, wild children! The horse obsession built from there, and we slowly started collecting horses, as you do.” The sisters began attending the local Maunu Pony Club and worked their way up to representing Northland at NZPCA Eventing Champs. Nicky eventually made the Young Rider Development Squad for eventing.

A CHANGE OF DIRECTION After finishing school, Nicky was offered a job working with Jock Paget at Clifton Eventers. She quickly packed up her possessions and shifted to the yard. “The experience was so beneficial, because not only did I learn a lot about riding, having the opportunity to learn from the best, but it also made me realise that I didn’t want to pursue riding as my full-time career,” she admits. Around the same time, Nicky had also had the revelation that she wasn’t cut out for cross-country. “I was always a bit of a perfectionist as a rider and took pride in being technically quite correct. So when it came to cross-country, if I got something a bit wrong, I’d beat myself up about it – regardless of whether I came home clear or not,” she recalls. “I remember doing my second 2* event and going around the whole thing telling myself ‘I don’t want to be doing this’.” She finished up at Clifton Eventers when Jock relocated to the UK, at which point her family were in the process of moving to Waikato, where Sam was already based. Nicky had never really thought much about her future – she had barely thought past the idea of working at Clifton, let alone not riding horses as a career, but she knew that it was time for a change. University was the next logical step, so she enrolled in a Bachelor of Communications degree, with a double major in Public Relations and Management Communications. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve been told that I’m a ‘people person’, so although it had never really been on my radar, communications seemed like a logical choice,” she explains. “I pulled back my competition riding and focused on breaking and producing young horses that Mum and Dad had been pottering away with breeding. Almost as soon as I’d decided that riding wouldn’t be my career, I started finding ways to build horses into my life in other ways that were more suited to my strengths.”

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“For as long as I can remember, I’ve been told that I’m a ‘people person’, so although it had never really been on my radar, communications seemed like a logical choice,”

While studying for her degree, Nicky started volunteering her communications services to get experience. This included communications for NZPCA Eventing Championships when they were held in Waikato, writing articles for various equestrian magazines and helping riders with their branding and social media. “I wanted to specialise in sport communications,” she explains. “Anything equine related was a total bonus.” Her first role out of university was Marketing Manager for the Avantidrome in Cambridge, which she says was a great opportunity. “I finished there without another role lined up, which was ideal timing because it gave me a chance to help Sam out by grooming for her at an Australian international event in Adelaide.” On her return, Nicky completed a six-month maternity leave contract as the ESNZ Eventing Sport Manager

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which she considered a huge learning curve and she enjoyed being involved in another side of the sport.

PLAY CREATIVE Following her role at ESNZ Nicky and Dan decided to launch Play Creative, producing storytelling videos for people and businesses passionate about what they do. “We are a video company, and our style is organic storytelling videos, specialising in equine. Finding out and telling a company’s story is our jam, and we love getting involved with a business and bringing their story out.” Nicky’s background in communications meant she had the theory side nailed, while Dan studied the practical side of creative media and technology. It was the perfect marriage of skills for their fledgling business. “We started very low-key. We just decided one day to

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buy a camera and start doing jobs for family and friends, and it went from there. We’ve been running for two-and-a-half years now, and we’re both working full-time in the business. It absolutely blew up, just from word-of-mouth, which was amazing.” Their biggest equine client is Waikato Stud alongside show jumper Amanda Wilson on her launch videos for The Formula, as well as Foal NZ, Nga Tawa Equestrian Academy, Mystery Creek Lusitanos and several other horse studs, pre-training and agistment facilities. “For our clients, having a horse person creating their videos is helpful. I can pick up on the little things – a horse with its ears back, a disunited canter, fences that look chewed – that are hard to explain to a nonhorsey person, but that makes all the difference when your audience are horsey people themselves,” Nicky explains. “The Waikato Stud videos have made an impact in the industry in terms of challenging the norm. We’ve had so much amazing feedback and a lot of ‘pinch me’ moments along the way. To have companies like Trackside say that we’re leading the way in video is pretty amazing.” With growth comes challenges and the couple is now looking to take on staff. “We’ve grown quite quickly, so working out how to fill the demand, while keeping quality high, is our next challenge. Serious growth is on the horizon – but we want to make sure it’s sustainable growth, so we’re taking our time.” Since starting the business, time has become something of a commodity for Nicky. She has been dabbling in riding and competing again, although this time it’s just for fun. “It’s taken me a while to realise that I can ride as a hobby rather than trying to make it to the Olympics,” she admits. “Riding is such a good activity to give my mind a break from the business side of things. When I’m riding, I forget about everything else and live totally in the moment.” C

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INTERVIEW WORDS Cheyenne Nicholson SCENIC IMAGES Chanelle O’Sullivan STUDIO IMAGES Sarah Drummond Photography

Never content without a project or three on the go, self-proclaimed ‘multipotentialite’ Chanelle O’Sullivan has created the ultimate Southern getaway, where you can even take your equine and canine friends on holiday with you.

“ RELAX AND UNWIND WITH A GOOD BOOK AND A BOTTLE OF WINE... HIGHLAND ESCAPE IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO GET OUT AND EXPLORE.”

LOCATION Ben Ohau, Twizel OWNERS Chanelle and Dave O’Sullivan

he Mackenzie Basin, or Te Manahuna as it was known to Ngāi Tahu, has been a resource and a special place since Māori first ventured into the region. Te Manahuna means ‘place of energy’ or ‘unseen spirit’, which indicates the special affinity that Māori had for this place. The sparsely populated area has become a popular tourist destination since its stunning appearance as ‘Gondor’ in the Lord of the Rings films. It is renowned for its clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, turquoise lakes and wide-open golden grasslands. Tucked beneath the Ben Ohau range on 4.6 hectares of Instagramworthy land sits a newly built 100 square foot, architecturally designed house, aptly named ‘Highland Escape’. It provides the perfect getaway spot for humans, equines and canines alike. “It’s one of those places where we knew that if we didn’t buy the land when we did, we would have looked back in 10 years and regretted it,” says property owner Chanelle O’Sullivan. Chanelle and her husband Dave, a farmer in Hawea, first purchased the 4.6 hectares of paradise in 2017. The business-minded

couple were keen to invest off-farm, and wanted to buy low-cost land in an up-andcoming area. “When we first started looking in the Twizel area five years ago, we couldn’t afford anything, because we needed a 50% deposit. So we purchased a rental property in Pleasant Point instead.” A few years later, they decided to take another look at land for sale and came across what is now Highland Escape. “We found the section and decided to sell the rental in Pleasant Point so we could buy it. We didn’t think we’d be able to build any time soon, so we just sat on it for a while and paid the mortgage on the bare land.” Then Chanelle, who is well-regarded for her business savvy and creative ideas in the agricultural industry, pitched an idea to the bank. “Given the tourism in the area and the surrounds, we talked to the bank about the idea of it becoming an Airbnb.” The idea took root, and they were able to get a loan against the potential income, estimated from local rental rates, which gave them enough money to go ahead with planning the build.

“WE’RE RIGHT UNDERNEATH THE BEN OHAU RANGE. THERE ARE 16KM AND 22KM RIDING TRACKS ONSITE, WHICH IS PRETTY UNIQUE. HAVING HAD HORSES MYSELF OVER THE YEARS, IT’S AWESOME TO HAVE A PROPERTY TO RENT OUT WHERE PEOPLE CAN BRING THEIR HORSES AND EXPLORE.”

The Build

With her varied background in farming, Thoroughbred stud work, vet nursing and digital marketing, Chanelle isn’t afraid of tackling a big project. She is the founder of the popular Facebook group ‘Farming Mums NZ’, works in digital marketing, and is part of the masterful minds behind Cross Country Kiwis, who have produced an activity travel book for children based on New Zealand towns. With all these other projects, plus two children (Isabelle, 7, and Hunter, 4), you could be forgiven for thinking that she’s already busy enough, but she took charge of the building process from whoa to go. “My husband was largely absent through

the whole process because of his work, so it was my baby to look after and manage.” With the bank onboard, the next step was to find a house design they liked. Inspiration struck in Queenstown, where Chanelle saw a 100sqm L-shaped house with a mezzanine floor. “It looked practical and was something I liked, so I had a bit of a play with it and took a hand-drawn idea to the architect. He helped me bring the idea to life.” Due to the house’s location in the heart of the South Island, special attention had to be paid to the engineering side of the planning and build to ensure loading requirements were correct, enabling the house to withstand the high winds

“[THE HOUSE DESIGN] LOOKED PRACTICAL AND WAS SOMETHING I LIKED, SO I HAD A BIT OF A PLAY WITH IT AND TOOK A HAND-DRAWN IDEA TO THE ARCHITECT. HE HELPED ME BRING THE IDEA TO LIFE.”

and snowfall that are part of life in the Mackenzie Basin. Once their plans were drawn up, Chanelle and Dave headed back to the bank armed with income projections and information on the area and growth. They came out with a lot more debt than they care to think about, but also with the green light to start the build. Prior to and during building, they cleared the land of pine trees and other weeds that had taken hold. The section was split off from Ruataniwha Farm 16 years ago, and hasn’t seen a whiff of chemical or animal since. “We’ve decided to keep it chemical-free, so we’ve used diggers to pull out the big

pine trees and we keep on top of the seedlings by hand,” Chanelle explains. “We are not sure what we are going to do with the property in the future. The organic movement is taking effect more than ever, so we are keeping our options open.” Overall, Chanelle says the process was reasonably straight-forward, but the build did run behind schedule, resulting in two months’ worth of lost income. “I’d wondered why everyone said building was stressful!” she admits. To save money and to be more hands-on in the build process, Chanelle and the rest of the family (and friends) did most of the painting themselves. “I’m not sure I’d do that again,” she

“ THE LIGHT LET THROUGH THE SKYLIGHTS IS ONE OF THE REASONS THEY COULD GET AWAY WITH THE BOLD, ALL-BLACK KITCHEN.”

“ HIGHLAND ESCAPE IS NOT JUST AN ESCAPE FOR PEOPLE – HORSES AND DOGS ARE WELCOME AS WELL.”

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admits. “The top part of the ceiling is 6.5 metres high, so when you’re doing a few coats, it’s not super ideal!” Ever the planner and organiser, Chanelle says she felt that she was on top of all aspects. Their budget was low, which added a layer of complexity to things, and the hidden costs of putting in services like power, septic systems and bores had to be considered. But despite the tight budget, Chanelle managed to pull everything together and create a simply stunning house. The interior design is kept simple and sleek with comfort and cosiness in mind. The open plan living-dining room features high ceilings and windows all around to make the most of the amazing landscape surrounding the house. Skylights in the mezzanine bedrooms are perfect for stargazing at night and, according to Chanelle, the light they let through is one of the reasons they could get away with the bold, all-black kitchen. Highland Escape is not just an escape for people – horses and dogs are welcome as well. The entire property is boundary-fenced, and there are plans in place to install more fencing and water troughs. Currently, visitors with equine friends take standards and tape to make small areas for their horses. “As we make headway through debt, we’ll do things like fence the property more, change up flooring and add in bits that we would have liked to have done already, but that just weren’t in the budget,” Chanelle explains.

What’s on offer

Along with being a beautiful spot to relax and unwind with a good book and a bottle of wine, Highland Escape is the perfect place for those who want to get out and explore. “We’re right underneath the Ben Ohau range. There are a 16- and 22-kilometre riding tracks on-site, which is pretty unique. Having had horses myself over the years, it’s awesome to have a property to rent out where people can bring their horses and explore.” Along with plenty of trails to navigate on horseback, there is also hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking and swimming on offer, with the ski fields and numerous other local attractions and places to explore just a short drive away. C

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14 STORES NATIONWIDE 63

INTERVIEW

CASSIE HODDER A diamond in the rough

As a young child, Cassie always had a love for horses. For some, it is a phase that comes and goes, but Cassieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream of having a horse to call her own never wavered. WORDS Ashleigh Kendall IMAGES Christine Cornege

reasuring the stories her mum shared of having her horse when she was a teenager, and with her uncle training racehorses, the temptation was everywhere. Despite that, Cassie’s introduction into horses came a little unexpectedly. “When I was nine, I was selected for the opportunity to ‘win a pony for a year’ through the Equestrian Education Scheme at Henderson Valley Pony Club,” she says. “It was an amazing concept and provided three kids each year with a way to get into horses that included a huge support network for both them and their parents.” Cassie learnt how to become a rider right from the beginning, after being paired with a pony called Holly that she describes as “wildly unsuitable for a beginner”. Holly was the last minute shoo-in due to the original pony dying, and Cassie became very fond of her. “At the end of that year we bought Holly, and she is still with us 20 years later!” she laughs. “She was the horse that made me as a rider.”

Cassie and HEZAROCK competing at Land Rover Horse of the Year 2019

“Being a hard worker, determined and driven is essential because we all know that nothing about even just the act of owning horses is easy; let alone riding them! They’re a 24/7, whateverthe-weather commitment and the lifestyle required plus the inevitable highs and lows will get the better of anyone who isn’t.” Spending the majority of her early years in West Auckland, Cassie describes her Pony Club experience as brilliant. “It was fantastic to be riding with your friends every evening, and I have so many amazing memories of that time.

Eventing was my biggest focus then, but we did a bit of everything.”

How it all began

At 11, Cassie’s dream of having her horse became a reality when she was given her first young Thoroughbred, Bill via her aunt. “My parents didn’t have the money to buy me flash horses, and it was Bill who sparked my love affair with Thoroughbreds,” she recalls. Without a lot of money to fund her passion, Cassie jumped at any opportunity that came by and is proud to share that aside from her first pony, she hasn’t paid a cent for any of her horses. “As a teenager, I moved to Waikato, and after a few years of eventing and dressage, I took up eventing full-time.” At the same time, while studying at Waikato University for a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in English and Screen Media, she took up riding track work for a local trainer to fund her horses – “and pretty much never left!” It was while Cassie was riding track that she met her partner Carl, and together they now run their breaking, pre-training and racing yard. Cassie adds laughingly

“I think it is important that you don’t forget why you started the sport in the first place. I also think you need something outside of horses – it doesn’t have to be big, just something that you do for yourself that doesn’t involve horses.”

that she also found the love of her life on the racetrack, in the form of her superstar gelding Schiavo (known affectionately as Sparty). “Sparty was only three when I got him, and I figured I would give showing a try for a season to get him out and about without too much pressure,” she recalls. “He turned out to be a handy wee show horse, and we got hooked! It was also with him that I got back into eventing so my seasons are split between the two disciplines now,” she explains.

The dream team

“I’m fortunate to have such a nice team of horses. I have three Thoroughbreds, all of whom I sourced (stalked) directly off the track. I love that they never say no. They are all very generous and brave. Generosity is so important, in my opinion.” Cassie’s team is headed by Sparty (Schiavo), an 11-year-old Thoroughbred by Spartacus. Together they have won showing classes at Horse of the Year and competed to (former) 1* eventing. Rocky (Hezarock) is a five-year-old Thoroughbred by Road to Rock. “He’s both the starry one and the wild child of the team,” she says. “After a lot of patience, he started to come into himself physically and mentally in the new year. He had an awesome autumn out eventing and showing, which was topped off with a great Horse of the Year Show.” To balance the team, Cassie also has gentle giant Bizarre, a six-year-old Thoroughbred by Don Eduardo, who enjoys eventing. There have been a few highlights in her career so far. “Winning Paced and Mannered Park Hack of the Year with Sparty as a five-year-old, then placing in the Young Event Horse Championship only seven weeks later was amazing,” she recalls. “He is just the most versatile horse! Another highlight was winning the Level 2 Champion at the 2011 Young Rider Dressage Champs on my gorgeous old thoroughbred Siana Ice. And riding around my first 1* cross-

country a few seasons ago – that was something that I’d thought I would never get to do!”

Staying focused

Cassie applies the same intense focus and drive to succeed in everything she does in life. “I think the factors required for success with horses are the same as for any sport,” she reflects. “Being a hard worker, determined and driven is essential because we all know that nothing about even just owning horses is easy, let alone riding them! They’re a 24/7, whateverthe-weather commitment, and the lifestyle required – plus the inevitable highs and lows – will get the better of anyone who isn’t committed. I think you have to be a little crazy, too!” Cassie is not without her challenges to overcome, as she has experienced her fair share of setbacks. “Horse injuries over the years have been tough,” she admits. “I had to retire my dressage horse unexpectedly, and Sparty has had two extended periods away from competing due to an injury and an illness. The problems always seem to come when things are going well, which is heartbreaking, but I’ve also been fortunate that the right horses have always come along at the right time to give me something to focus on, and made those times easier. I’ve also struggled at times with feeling like I’m holding my horses back, which is something I’m sure a lot of people can relate to.” When times are tough, Cassie tries to remain positive

“One of my goals would be to qualify and take Rocky on the NZ Show Council Grand Nationals tour to Australia. It looks like an amazing experience.”

and understanding of the nature of horses and sport. “I think it is important that you don’t forget why you started the sport in the first place. I also think you need something outside of horses – it doesn’t have to be big, just something that you do for yourself that doesn’t involve horses. They can be so lifeconsuming, and I think that’s why the lows can be so low. I used to get up every day, work the racehorses, ride my horses, sleep and repeat, and I struggled when things were going wrong. Now I think I have a slightly better life balance, and it helps me when things with the horses aren’t going so well as I’d like.” Her proudest moment to date was born through overcoming adversity with her very sensitive young horse. “I was so happy when Rocky finished runnerup in Rising Star Hack of the Year this year. He is stunning and so talented, but he struggled to cope at shows throughout the season. I was at my wits’ end with him, and a couple of months out from HOY, I thought we wouldn’t even get there. Then there was such a class group of horses in that ring, and the atmosphere was so big that all I hoped for was that he would be calm and confident. He worked his socks off and pulled out the most beautiful workout. I was so proud of how hard he tried and how far he had come.” Always appreciative of the people who are behind her, Cassie feels privileged to have had some fantastic mentors in her life. “When I was younger I had an amazing coach called Kris Hughes, who instilled my love of dressage and all things flatwork. She is one of the most positive people I’ve ever met. In the last ten years, Christine Weal has been my biggest mentor across all the disciplines I do. I can chew her ear off about a problem I’m having on the flat, but I can also discuss a crosscountry ride, a show jumping issue, or pick her brain about conditioning my horse for the show ring. Christine and Zoie’s yard is nearly my second home!”

Future goals

One of Cassie’s important future goals is to have her own property with Carl, complete with an arena. “I have to float my horses away every day to ride, so like many others, having my own arena is something I dream about constantly!” Her immediate performance goals for her team, however, include having Sparty out eventing at 2* level, getting Rocky out at CNC105, and being back in the showing ring at HOY 2020. “One of my goals would be to qualify and take Rocky on the NZ Show Council Grand Nationals tour to Australia. It looks like an amazing experience,” she says, then adds, “and what sort of racehorse owner and trainer would I be if I didn’t dream of winning a Group One!” C

INTERVIEW WORDS Ashleigh Kendall MAIN IMAGES Show Circuit Magazine

Alyssa Harrison Burning

Ambition

Young, determined and full of fire, sixteen-year-old dressage rider and eventer Alyssa Harrison has proved she has what it takes to succeed, and promises that this is just the beginning. “I’ve always loved horses, since as far back as I can remember,” she says. “Our neighbour used to let me sit on her horses, and every time I saw one I had to go pat it, so for my fifth birthday, my parents brought me a Shetland pony called Max. He’d only just been broken-in, but I’ve never looked back.” Growing up on a farm gave Alyssa the solid foundation to build her equestrian passion. “Being exposed to wide open spaces, hills and all sorts of possible things to jump from such a young age made me fall in love with cross-country riding. I’m still always out exploring new places with my horses and pushing the boundaries on what I can do.”

Riding Free

Alyssa is in Year 12 at Rosehill College, so she manages her two horses Da Vinci Code and Jack Be Nimble R around trying to achieve top grades. “Da Vinci Code (Davey) is a 151cm eight-year-old warmblood x stationbred by Davidoff out of Marble Arch. He is my main horse. I currently compete him at Level 4 dressage, training at Level 5, as well as 1* eventing,” she says. “I haven’t found anything he can’t do! As well as being a cross-country machine and a dressage diva, I also do a lot of free riding with him. He’s incredibly quirky, but he’s my one in a million. He has the biggest heart and gives 100% in everything he does – I couldn’t give him up for anything.” Always one to think of new and creative ways she can challenge herself and her horses, Alyssa thrives on tackless ‘free riding’. “I love to ride bareback and bridleless. I find

that it’s beneficial for the horses as well, as they get exposed to a lot, which makes them a lot more confident.” Jack Be Nimble R (Jack) is Alyssa’s dressage horse. He is a 10-year-old 16hh Australian Warmblood gelding, by Jive Magic out of a Regardez Moi mare. “I currently compete him at Level 3, and I have big plans for his future. He is incredibly talented and is proving to be an excellent challenge for me. I’m super excited to get him out on the circuit and show what he can do. He’s loving learning the harder movements, so I think he will pick it up quickly.” She also found that stepping up to 1* level last season taught her a lot about what it takes to be a successful eventer. “I realised how much I had to solidify my training to get good scores across the board, as it was all so much more technical in comparison to what I had been doing before. It was a huge learning curve for me.”

Moving up

The 2018/ 2019 season was a massive step in the right direction for Alyssa. “Last season was a collection of my proudest moments,” she says. “Davey and I have come so far together, so to have pulled off such amazing results with him all season was really special – especially when we topped it off by winning the DC title

at NZPCA Eventing Champs, then placed second in the 1* at Taupo 3DE.” It is lovely for a rider to share such successful moments with a horse they have done most of the work on themselves, and Alyssa is no exception. “I think that made it even more special,” she says. “I bought Davey as a five-year-old from Helen Bruce, and have produced him myself since then.” She had already had a very successful season before she added the DC title at NZPCA Eventing Champs to her haul, making for a fairytale ending to the season. “That was a dream come true!” she says. “When I realised that I’d won, I was speechless and pretty emotional for quite a while. Everyone kept coming up and hugging and congratulating me. It’s one thing I’ve always wanted to achieve, and to do it with Davey, who is so special to me, made it even more incredible. It’s definitely a feeling I’ll never forget.” Her parents are her biggest supporters, and Alyssa couldn’t be without them. “Mum rode horses until she went to university, and she has her own horse, Moet, that she rides around the farm with me now. Dad grew up with horses in his family but much-preferred something with a motor attached,” she laughs. Juggling horses and school can be hard, but Alyssa says that it’s definitely doable. “Most of my teachers are quite helpful in

the fact that they will give me work to do while I’m away competing, which helps a lot as I hate being behind. My parents are quite strict when it comes to school as well, so I do my best to keep my grades up to stay in the higher streams.”

The Pony Club Advantage

Alyssa is currently a member of Waiau Pa Pony Club and has been in the Pony Club system since she was six years old. She has found it to be incredibly beneficial for her riding and horsemanship, and she has now joined the small group of dedicated Pony Club riders who have gained their ‘A’ Certificate, another goal ticked off her increasingly long and impressive list of achievements. “The Pony Club certificates are great for encouraging you to try new things and become more disciplined within your riding, plus all the knowledge you gain from the horse management side of it,” Alyssa says. “Being in Pony Club exposes you to all the senior riders which encourage the younger children to strive for the same level of riding, as well as pushing you to try out for all the teams. Growing up, I’ve tried to take advantage of this, and I’ve been in many teams and travelled the length of the country. I’ve been able to meet so many people through Pony Club as well, making some amazing friends from all over New Zealand,

“When I realised that I’d won, I was speechless and pretty emotional for quite a while. Everyone kept coming up and hugging and congratulating me.”

Alyssa with JACK BE NIMBLE R who was purchased last season.

Alyssa and DA VINCI CODE during the Wairakei Resort CCN1* -L Championship, placing 2nd overall at New Zealand Three Day Event Championships - Taupo 2019 Images this page: Caitlin Benzie Photography

Future Plans

and receiving some awesome coaching along the way which helped me figure out where I wanted to go with my riding.” In April this year, Alyssa was part of the New Zealand Inter-School Eventing Team which contested the 2019 Tintern Grammar 19th Annual Victorian Inter-School Horse Trial Championships. It was an experience she will never forget, especially as it was her first time representing New Zealand overseas. “The whole experience was incredible,” she recalls. “The people over there were so helpful and welcoming, and the amount we learnt in such a small space of time was mind-blowing. Will Enzinger taught us so much about riding our borrowed horses, and I think riding my borrowed mount Cooper (Cooperite Frank) around the cross-country after only knowing him for a day was the biggest highlight! “Wearing the silver fern was a big honour, and to be in an international team environment learning the ropes of being a New Zealand representative was a great experience,” she adds. “My team members were amazing, and I have made some friends for life.”

Alyssa has big plans for both the near and distant future in her riding career. “I want to step Davey up to 2* eventing at some point, but I don’t want to rush it,” she says. “I also want to get both Davey and Jack competing at Level 5 dressage, getting them consistent and relaxed so that I can keep progressing up the levels. “My ultimate goal is to one day be flying around a 5* cross-country course overseas, and to wear the New Zealand fern for eventing at WEG and the Olympics – as well as to get to Grand Prix dressage,” she adds. “I’d love to do them both on horses I’ve produced myself, too. I think that would be the biggest reward!” Alyssa is considering a few options for when she leaves school.

“Wearing the silver fern was a big honour, and to be in an international team environment learning the ropes of being a New Zealand representative was a great experience.”

“I’d love to have the opportunity to go and work at a stable overseas and travel for a year to see how the international circuit works, then I’d like to come back and train to the top level myself,” she says. “I also intend to go to university to study Veterinary Physiotherapy.” With a passion burning as bright as Alyssa’s, there is undoubtedly a lot more to come for this dedicated young rider. C

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INTERVIEW WORDS Pip Hume IMAGES Dark Horse Photography

4 2 IN THE

HOURS LIFE OF

Tessa

van Bruggen

Considering the wealth of dressage in Tessa’s family background, it’s perhaps not surprising that she lives and breathes the sport. But while she enjoys their ongoing support, the Blenheim rider is forging her own path, with her own goals and aspirations.

MORNING 6 AM

My alarm goes off. I grab a coffee and go out to feed the stabled horses, so they have time to digest their breakfasts before being ridden. Then I spend half an hour or so planning my day, going over what is essential for each horse and which of them needs more attention. In summer I aim to be out riding by around 6.30am to beat the heat, but at the moment in winter, it’s more like 8 am. Generally speaking, I’m a morning person, but when it’s cold outside, I would rather stay in bed for a bit longer! I’m also a coffeeholic. I don’t like to eat much before I ride - usually just a banana or fruit, and another coffee on the go! 7.30 AM Our working day is based around a flexible routine, depending on our horses’ needs and our clients’ requirements. Our super-groom Charlotte Delany arrives at 7.45am and feeds the paddocked horses; then she does the mucking out. She also gets the horses in and ready for me, although I prefer to tack

TESSA

24 YEARS OLD

the Numbers

RIDES

1st Level 4D at 2019 Horse of the Year

HORSES PER DAY

3HORSES OWNS

75%

IS MY PERSONAL BEST RESULT AT GEORGIA REGIONAL SHOW IN THE USA 73

I A M A C O F F EEHO LI C , I BE G I N EAC H DAY WI TH A N I C E M U G O F C O FFEE A N D DON ’ T L I KE TO E AT BE F ORE I R I DE

TOP - Tessa with the family’s English Mastiffs, Diesel and Moa. Right - Tessa likes to bandage her horses herself before working them. Opposite page - Tessa is riding FIORENZA (Ellie). them up myself. Charlotte is a huge help and is terrific. The stabled horses are ridden first, and then they go out into their day paddocks. Then we work the breakers, who are yarded, and after that the paddocked horses. Either my Mum or I might also have a client come for a lesson during the morning. I’ve got a few regular clients in Blenheim, but I can usually only fit two adult lessons into a weekday. I also teach on Saturdays, depending on what clients require. The dressage horses usually have more intensive sessions on Mondays and Tuesdays, training the movements and working on fitness. On Wednesdays their workout is lighter, concentrating more on bending, stretching and suppleness. On Thursdays and Fridays, the work is again more intense, then Saturday is a light day. Unless we are away competing we don’t ride on Sundays, so it’s a day off for the horses, but not so much for us because we still have feeding, mucking out and so on to do! Our training sessions are about 45 minutes, and when we want to get the horses out and

TESSA

CANNOT GO WITHOUT: 74

do something different, we take them to the Marlborough Equestrian Park. Unfortunately, although we live amid beautiful wine country, Health & Safety means that we can’t take advantage of hacking through the neighbouring vineyards. I usually start my days riding on my eight-year-old mare Fiorenza (Ellie), who I competed at Level 4 last season, winning the L4 Championship at South Island Festival of Dressage and the Reserve at Nationals. She was also third overall at Landrover Horse of the Year, winning the Level 4D which I was very proud of because the competition was fierce! At the moment we are working on consolidating the upper-level work, aiming to go out at Level 6 next season. We bred Ellie, who is out of a Littorio mare and by our stallion Furst Jupp (Frodo) who Mum trained to Grand Prix level. He is now gelded and enjoying a happy retirement in the

•

Music. I put my headphones on before I go out to feed up in the mornings, and at competitions, before I compete, I love to chill out and relax with my music. My family. I get terribly homesick

•

when I am away. My NSC saddle. It literally changed my riding life and is the comfiest saddle to ride in. My Cavallo boots. I have begun riding in them every day because I can ‘hug’ the horse

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better with my legs when I’m wearing them. My Beyond the Bit breeches. There’s nothing worse than uncomfortable breeches! My Torpedo 7 puffa which my

•

Dad got me for my birthday. I’m a massive fan in this winter weather! KK Ultra bits. They are not too chunky or sharp for my horses, who are all happy in their mouths.

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www.prestigeequestrian.co.nz 75

paddock. Although I rode Frodo from Prix St Georges to Grand Prix, as well as Mum’s gelding Fortunato (Stretch) through to Level 7, Ellie is the first horse I’ve taken through the grades myself. Obviously, I’ve got Mum’s guidance every day, and regular coaching with Andrea Raves, but I’m Ellie’s only rider. I adore Ellie’s nature. I love competing her because she’s not bothered by atmosphere one little bit - even the super-busy environment at HOY doesn’t faze her. For the upper levels, you need a bit of hotness, power, and extravagance, but the horse has to be rideable. When I ride Ellie, her attention and focus are on me, regardless of what is going on around us. She tries very hard for me, which is very cool. Next season, I plan to take her up to the North Island for Under 25s (I am 24 now, so it’s my last season as a Young Rider), Horse of the Year and Nationals. If you want to know how you and your horse are progressing, that’s where you have to go. The competitions, the other riders, and the judges are just outstanding. I love the whole competition scene. Travelling away to shows is like a fun holiday for us - we have the best time and laugh so much. My older sister Kayla, who is a nurse, also comes away with us and is an excellent help. She doesn’t enjoy riding so much as being around the horses, handling, grooming and turning them out. She’s a superorganised person and takes a lot of the pressure off. My boyfriend

I LOV E T H E WHO LE CO M P E TITIO N SC EN E. T R AVEL L I N G AWAY TO S H OW S I S L I KE A F U N H O LIDAY F O R US - W E H AVE T H E B E S T TIME A N D LAUG H SO M U C H .

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I A D ORE E L L I E ’ S N AT UR E . I LOV E CO MP E TING HER BECAUS E S HE ’ S N OT B OT HE RE D BY ATMO S P H E RE ON E L I T T L E B I T - E V E N THE S U P E R-BU S Y EN VIRO NME N T AT HOY DO E S N’T FAZE HER . is very supportive and helpful as well, having ridden when he was younger. I have a very close bond with Mum. We are both passionate about our horses and the sport of dressage, and we work together every single day. She’s my ‘eyes on the ground’, and I am hers; I’ve learnt everything I know from her, and I’m in such a fortunate position to have our fantastic facilities and high-quality horses. As well as my sister Kayla, I also have two halfbrothers, Stephen and Bradley, and as a family we are all very close. My Dad and stepmother in the North Island are also super supportive, and whenever I’m competing there, they make time to come to the shows. After I left school, I studied to be a midwife for eighteen months, but the time came when I had to decide which path to commit to. I was passionate about both riding and midwifery. I so loved my tutors and working with women, but what decided it for me was that I was studying with an older age group, and I felt that the time to explore that path may come later on in my life. The great thing these days is that you can study whenever it suits you, whether that is straight after school, or further out. I don’t know what the future may hold, but that’s a possibility I can definitely

be passionate about. In the meantime, I have these goals and aspirations around dressage, and a family willing and able to support me, so I have decided to see where this goes! Besides Ellie, my young Donnerubin mare Eve, and horses who have come to be schooled, I usually have a couple of horses to start under saddle for clients, so by lunchtime, I’ve generally worked four or five horses. Often Charlotte and Mum will go and have lunch while I’m finishing off, then Mum will lunge another horse or give Charlotte a lesson while I have my lunch.

AFTERNOON 1 PM

For lunch, I like left-overs from dinner the night before, or a bun with cold meat and salad. If I still have horses to ride in the afternoon though, I prefer something lighter such as fruit and granola to give me the energy to keep going. I never enjoy riding after a bigger meal. I’m totally addicted to chocolate to keep me going - I’m such a chocoholic - and I love popcorn, too. Chocolate and popcorn are my ‘go-to’ snacks. After lunch, I finish up whatever didn’t get done in the morning.

Call Laura 021-722 578 E: laurad@harrisonlane.co.nz www.harrisonlane.co.nz

3.00PM We try to be all finished by 3 pm because from Monday to Thursday from 3.30-5.30pm I teach a cool after-school programme for children who don’t have their own ponies, at the RDA in Blenheim. There’s one class each afternoon, with three to six children per class. They arrive at 3.30pm, and I help them tack up and teach them how to ride, and also how to handle the ponies - being safe around them, and about using common sense! It’s amazing how quickly they pick it up; how natural they are and their genuine love for the animals. They are so excited to see the ponies and groom them. For the children, it’s as much about that as it is about riding. Charlotte and Mum do the evening feed-up while I am away, and as we also have a broodmare and two youngsters at another property, on my way home, I will swing by and check and feed them. 7 PM Dinner! My parents are both European, so as a family, we enjoy cheeses and cured meats like salami, and antipasto platters. For dinner, my tastes are quite traditional. I love roast chicken, and after a big day, I crave pasta. Salmon, steak, and salads are favourites. Everyone in my family is quite good in the kitchen, and I can put a meal together. More often than not though Mum or Dad will make the dinner - Dad (Tim Smit) is a self-employed civil engineer and works from his office at home. Mum and I generally do the grocery shopping together as the supermarket is next door to the horse feed merchant, so we try and get all of the feed needs done in one trip!

EVENING

I love to chill out and watch a bit of TV or YouTube videos of international dressage riders. I watch a lot of different riders, but some of my favourites are Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and Emmelie Scholtens. Although I like to scroll through Instagram, I’m not a person who is looking at my phone all the time, and I don’t post about myself much on social media. I’m quite a private person, and I find promoting myself and my business a foreign concept.

I do try and look after my amazing sponsors. They are so relaxed and supportive of me, and I appreciate them and everything they do, so when I get something new from them, I try and post about that. Currently, I’m sponsored by McMillan Equine Feeds, Zilco, Maxia Seahorse Supplements, Syncroflex, and an American company, Gumbits Horse Treats. I met the owner of Gumbits when I travelled to the USA last year for around seven weeks to learn more about foundational horse training and also compete over there. I was based at Windwood Equestrian in Alabama but was able to visit her stable for a day. Her daughter is a very successful hunter-jumper in the USA, and they are outstanding people. My family has ties to America because my Dutch grandfather, Melle van Bruggen, and my mother, Franzi, lived and coached there before coming to New Zealand. My grandfather coached the US Dressage team to two Olympic team gold medals, so I have a lot to live up to! My grandfather and my mother also had the kind of special relationship that is replicated between Mum and me, and I grew up having riding lessons right from when I was very tiny, and he first put me up on a horse on the lunge! (I fell off!) But that was my childhood - watching my mother train each day, and both of them teaching clients. I never wanted to go to school; I just wanted to stay home every day and ride! Sadly, Melle died when I was 12, but we think about him every day. It was that experience in the USA that led me into my own business of foundational training and starting young horses. We prefer not to use the term ‘breaking in’, as we are aiming to produce happy, willing young horses that are relaxed, not stressed, and able to cope with any rider from novice through to experienced. Mum and I work with the young horses together, and we both have the ability to ‘read’ a horse, and with our whole system and approach everything is very easy, and they are very willing. 9.30PM I’m ready to call it a night during the week. I do like to have fun and go out, and I can be quite loud and rowdy, but I only go out probably a handful of times a year. I have a small, very tight circle of friends that I feel a strong connection with, and that’s how I like it! C

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TRAINING

Building a solid

FOUNDATION WITH

WORDS Ashleigh Kendall IMAGES Show Circuit Magazine

DANI MAURER In this clinic, Grand Prix show jumper Dani Maurer coaches the new combination of 18-year-old Victoria Yang and her horse Remarkable through the process of flatwork to achieve balanced show jumping.

Dani started show jumping from a young age, first representing New Zealand on ponies in 2004 and progressing through the Pony Grand Prix ranks to Horse Grand Prix and World Cup level. Dani has worked and trained in Australia under Australian coaches David Finch, Jamie Coman and Vicki Roycroft. She had the opportunity to train and compete under Helena Stormanns in Eschweiler, Germany.

THE RIDER

Victoria Yang and her newly purchased horse Remarkable (Henry) had only been together for a week at the time of this clinic. Victoria has come to New Zealand from Singapore, where she recently graduated from high school, and is spending her gap year with Dani before she heads to the USA (with Henry) to study at Skidmore College.

THE HORSE

Remarkable (by Ramirez) is an 8-year-old, 16.3hh gelding who was purchased through Katie Laurie from his owner Sarah Worker. At the 2019 Aquis Champions Tour, he was 5th in the Future Stars and qualified for the Silver Final. 82

The elements of trust, talent, training, love, and dedication make show jumping a thrilling and an amazing experience. It's really the ultimate test of the bond between horse and rider.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;There's nothing like a horse and rider forming an arc of beauty, efficiency, and power over a jump."

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each horse takes us on a journey of growth, and in learning about the horse, we also learn about ourselves.â&#x20AC;?

FUNDAMENTALS OF A GREAT WARM-UP Dani always starts off with flatwork, then adds in some pole exercises. She does this with every horse she trains before jumping, as working well on the flat is vital for a jumping horse. The more supple and responsive they are on the flat, the better their jumping is going to be, so it really pays to do the hard work and pay attention to your basics. In addition, having your horse’s

body strong and supple will reduce the chance of any injuries that may occur when jumping. Dani points out that Henry needs some more attention to his flatwork, as he could be softer over the back. This will help Victoria to adjust his stride more easily, which will allow him to jump with better technique.

WARMING UP Victoria starts by riding Henry on a circle, first working on improving his connection by using transitions, counterflexion and some leg yielding. Beginning in walk, Dani encourages Victoria to slow the pace and get Henry to take the contact a little deeper. “We want to make sure we don’t get too much bend from him. We want more straightness, and once he starts relaxing and reaching for the bridle, then we can get more walk out of him. "Ride some smaller circles, asking for a little more flexion and bend. Introduce movements which will keep your horse’s attention, as well as working on his suppleness and engagement. Try simple lateral work such as leg yield on a straight line and shoulder-fore, making sure you keep the angles shallow."

Too much bend loses the connection from behind

Counter-flexion is helpful to straighten the horse if you have lost the connection, before moving into trot

The horse must maintain an even contact

TROT WORK

While there is a feeling of softness in the hand, the connection has been lost from the back end, so Henry becomes hollow

“Before you go into trot, take his flexion a little more to the outside, then move into trot," Dani says. "Remember to keep your thumbs on top of the reins – don't let your hand turn in, because then your elbows come out. "Bring your upper body back and then start putting a little more leg on. Push him into the bridle, but don't let the reins get too short, otherwise you will end up with him bunching up his neck. Flex him to the outside and bring your upper body away from him, and as you straighten, ask him to come a little deeper. We want him to reach for the inside rein, so that as you soften it, he is reaching forward into the contact a little bit more.” Dani points out that a common mistake riders make is to shorten the reins too much, causing the horse to shorten his neck without reaching for the bridle and working over a round back. The horse might look like he’s on the bit, but he is likely to be hollow, which is not helpful for jumping.

TRANSITIONS WITHIN THE PACE As Henry starts to become more connected through the bridle and his body, Victoria can start building his trot to be bigger and more relaxed over the back. “Now play with the tempo and slow the trot down. You can play with the bit a little to get him softer by using half-halts and making him more connected,” Dani says. “Now keep this contact and build the trot up again. We want him to really build his trot into the bridle. When you send the trot forward, keep the connection so you don't lose him in front.” This is important, she explains, because if the horse just runs forward and escapes the connection, it makes the exercise pointless and it will end up working against you as the horse becomes strung out and rigid. Henry does have a habit of wanting to run when Victoria applies her leg aids, so this is extra challenging for her, but super rewarding when they get it right. “When coming back in the trot, don't let it shut down too much, so it turns into nothing,” Dani reminds her. “He still needs to be

Slowing the trot down using half-halts re-establishes the connection active and trotting the hind legs through from behind. I want you to ask yourself ‘is he keeping his bend?’ and make sure you aren't losing him out the back door.” When Henry tries to lock his neck and jaw in the downward transitions, Dani reminds Victoria to bend him to loosen him again. “If he starts to lock his jaw through the transition, still carry on with the trot. You can even keep him on a smaller circle if it helps with his bend and connection.”

MAKING THE DOWNWARD TRANSITION - TRY THIS

More connection and more leg creates an elastic contact

“When you transition down into the walk, use a little bit of counter flexion, sit and keep your inside leg on,” Dani says. “This maintains and improves the connection. In the downward transition, when he really starts to bunch up and come above the bridle, just soften and ride him forward again, even if it means going back into rising trot. We want to encourage relaxation and not tension through the body.”

KEEP HIM ACTIVE! Sometimes Henry is a little slow to go forward in the upward transitions. “If he is hard to push into the trot, then come back and get the walk more active to make the transition sharper and more on your aids,” Dani says.

Once the canter work is underway, Henry is starts to use himself correctly in the trot work between transitions

Henry starts out slightly behind the leg

CANTER ACCURACY In the canter, the goal for Victoria is to keep Henry jumping forward and active, sitting on his hind legs. “When building the canter, think about keeping your outside leg slightly behind the girth to stop his quarters swinging out.” Victoria rides a few canter-trot transitions and Henry really loosens and relaxes into a more active and elastic trot. “The canter transitions have really helped his trot, with his legs reaching forward and soft over the back,” Dani praises. “This is a super exercise to loosen and engage any horse at any level.”

Henry is now sitting on his back end in the canter

WARMING UP USING CAVALETTI & POLES IN CANTER Dani sets up a cavaletti followed by two poles five strides apart. “It rides as five strides but once we have gone through it a couple of times, we will adjust him so he goes through in six,” she explains to Victoria. “When we ask him to wait for six strides, we still want him to stay in front of the leg. Likewise, when we ride him through in five strides, he needs to stay connected and not get too flat and running.” As Victoria pops over the cavaletti and turns to the poles, Dani reminds her to use her corners to set Henry up nicely to achieve the five strides.

To set up

“Use your outside leg through the turn to help you control his whole body and make the turn. To make it in five strides, attack the first pole a little stronger.” Keeping Henry’s back round is important as they ride through the exercise. “It is essential that you can keep his back round, because if his neck is inverted and his back is hollow, then he will be on a shorter stride than he appears to be. If he is hollow, the stride will be getting choppier and not actually longer, which will make the job a lot more difficult.”

CAVALETTI & POLES EXERCISE

Place a cavaletti and two poles on different sides of your arena, forming a curved line to the poles.

Benefits

This exercise works to encourage control, rhythm, balance and articulation by making your horse pick up his feet, and also works on your horse’s canter stride between the three points. It’s great for seeing a stride and to work on shortening and lengthening.

Exercise

First, simply canter through the poles, counting how many strides you get in a soft and consistent rhythm. Then include the cavaletti as the starting point, followed by the two poles with five strides between them. Next, do the same but shorten your canter to get six strides between the two poles (leaving the poles at the same distance). You can also do this exercise in the other direction, starting with the poles and finishing with the cavaletti.

GRIDWORK “The aim with Henry's jumping is to try to get a stronger canter without it being faster, because when Victoria puts her leg on, sometimes he wants to run off instead of sit and collect,” Dani explains. “That’s why the flatwork is so important to strengthen his jumping.”

Setting the grid

Build a simple cross-pole grid, set at the right distances for your horse (see diagram below). Cross-poles will help you stay straight and make you jump the middle of the fence. As you land, sit up and let the landing poles help you maintain an even canter. This straightforward grid doesn’t have any tricks up its sleeve, which means it’s a great starting point to help you and your horse find a good rhythm and produce a clean, confidence-boosting jump through the line.

Benefits

Working your horse over a grid will help to improve his balance, suppleness and confidence – all crucial elements for a successful clear round – plus it’s a nice way to vary his jump work. But before you start, it’s important to get your distances correct and build your horse’s confidence with a structured gridwork plan. Done properly, gridwork is a great training exercise to get your horse thinking forward and concentrating on the job at hand.

Why do gridwork? • • • • • • • • • •

It encourages your horse to be more reactive off your aids It improves his rhythm over fences It helps you both to improve your balance Different fences and distances between fences teach him to lengthen and shorten his strides It allows you to be more aware of your position It lets you become more aware of your horse’s straightness It helps you to ride fences more accurately It increases your confidence when jumping It improves the suppleness of both you and your horse It improves your horse's bascule (arc shape) over fences.

The exercise

3m approx.

6m approx.

3m approx.

3 human paces

6 human paces

3 human paces

Use this grid as a way to introduce trickier striding in a low-pressure way. If your horse prefers to lengthen his stride, shorten the distance to the final fence and add placing poles so that he has to collect his canter to pop cleanly through. If he tends to shorten and add strides, ride forward for the correct number of strides, using the placing poles to help him out.

TOP TIP

Only attempt grid work with the assistance of an experienced helper who can reset fences and change distances. It’s important that they can recognise when a stride doesn’t suit your horse and can adjust the fences accordingly.

JUMPING UPRIGHTS Uprights may look straightforward, but they can be the cause of many knock-downs in show jumping. In training, uprights are used to encourage a neater jump and more engagement of the hind legs, propelling the horse upwards and over the fence. For a horse with a ﬂat jump, large uprights can be disastrous. The highest point of the horse’s jump must be over the centre of the fence, so if this isn’t the case, you can expect a knock-down or two.

How to ride it

Often riders will see a tall, ﬂimsy upright and immediately think that they need to slow down, but this is not the way to ride it. If you’re approaching from a previous fence, or from 10-12 strides away, you need to ensure you’re in a strong medium canter.

Preparing to jump

Between five to seven strides before the upright lies your collection opportunity. If required, you can collect your canter here, while still looking ahead. With uprights, your take-off point should be slightly further away from the fence than you’d normally choose with wider obstacles.

Take-off

As you hit your take-off point, squeeze with your legs while keeping a light elastic contact through the rein. Make sure you don’t fold before you need to, or he‘ll end up lifting his front end too early. Mid-jump, stretch your lower back so you can move your hand forward, following the rein. This will allow your horse to stretch

out and bascule over the fence, leaving plenty of air between him and the top pole.

Landing

Your position here really depends on the proximity of the following fence. If your next jump is within six strides, ensure you land in an upright position with your shoulders in balance, ready to go again. If the distance between your landing and the next fence is greater than six strides, ride forward again into a medium canter.

Things to avoid •

A weak initial canter will cause your horse to jump low and ineffectively. It may even encourage him to back off from the fence on approach.

•

You need collection to ensure the necessary elevation to clear the upright. Letting your horse travel ﬂat and slow will not help him to clear the obstacle.

•

Don’t run too close to the fence, pulling at your horse’s head.

•

By encouraging collection at the correct point, you should have the control you need to clear the fence comfortably.

•

Preparing early is the key!

Ground lines

Ground lines are often used to minimise the sense of air space between the pole and the ground. Another way to fill this space is to use a hanging pole. The hanging pole should be positioned diagonally underneath the fence.

5 PHASES OF JUMPING

THE RIDER:

THE HORSE:

PHASE 1: APPROACH

PHASE 2: TAKE-OFF

PHASE 3: FLIGHT

This is the point at which He needs a well-balanced, In flight, the horse leaves rhythmic gait to allow him to the horse begins to gather the ground, travelling up adjust his stride and engage his hind legs underneath his and forward. The forehand is his hind legs under his body body and starts to lift up the well-lifted and the back wellfor take-off. The quality of the forehand, pausing forward rounded over the obstacle in jump is closely related to the momentum and gathering an arc or 'bascule', and the energy to the hind legs. The quality of the pace during hind legs are 'retroflexed' energy required to clear an the approach. out away from his body to obstacle is in this phase. clear the jump. Count one, two, one, Drop your weight into your Follow his motion with two to maintain a steady heels and lean forward, your hands and body, staying rhythm. Ask your horse following the horse's balanced and centred above to wait for a slightly momentum. At the point of him. Allow your horse the deeper-than-normal take-off, keep rein contact freedom in his neck and distance, so he has to with your hands to give head to use his body, while rock back onto his hind your horse confidence, maintaining a light contact legs as he prepares and encourage him through the rein. to leave the ground. with your leg.

PHASE 4: LANDING

PHASE 5: GET-AWAY

The horse now starts to stretch out and extend his front legs out, ready for landing. He will land on one foreleg first, quickly followed by the other foreleg, and the hindquarters will follow through from behind.

The get-away stride should be fluent, with the horse's hocks coming well underneath him, so that the balance, rhythm and impulsion of the pace is re-established as soon as possible. This is important because the approach to the next fence may have already begun.

Continue to follow his forward momentum with your hands. Keep them open to allow freedom for landing. The rider should check that Keep your shoulders ahead their position is still accurate, of your hips as you hold him with reins the correct length, straight between your reins lower leg secure and with and legs. Your knees and the upper body tall as they lower leg should close. focus on the next jump.

When jumping oxers, it is critical to maintain your pace, forwardness and balance

OXERS What is an oxer?

Two parallel vertical fences form an oxer, creating a spread that requires horses to jump up and across the wider fence. The oxer produces a rounder, more equal bascule than a triple bar, which has an upward slope. Take-off and landing spots should be the same distance from the oxer. An oxer can be a challenging jump, but building it up gradually helps your horse to understand what you’re asking him to do, and encourages him to stretch and improve his shape over the fence.

How to ride it

Adjusting the width of oxers will make your horse’s jump wider and more powerful

•

On approach, establish a rhythmical and powerful canter.

•

As you ride to the jump, remember to listen to your horse. Feel their stride and make adjustments if they feel like they are going too fast or too slow. Keep low in your seat and heels and wait, bringing your horse onto his back end.

•

Look ahead for your jump.

•

Make sure you keep your upper body tall, because leaning forward through this phase will signal to your horse that the striding is longer, when you actually need him to shorten.

•

Jump the fence and ride straight on landing.

FINAL WORD Once Victoria starts to jump, it’s evident that her hard work on the flat is already paying off. “Remember to take your time to get organised, and when you pick up the canter, work out what kind of rhythm you need before you set off to jump," Dani reminds Victoria. "Then you can put more leg on if necessary, so that you can make him stronger without getting quicker. Trust the canter you have picked all the way to the front rail. Think impulsion, more leg without more speed, and when he starts to run through the bridle, bend him

to loosen him, just like you did on the flat. We don't want him to lock up and set his jaw.” She reminds Victoria to watch the front rail only when approaching a fence, and the pair make an impressive picture through the air. It's hard to believe they have only been working together for a week. “That was a lovely ride,” Dani praises. “When he is on his back end, he jumps completely differently. You are doing so well for just your first week on him!”

DANI MAURER'S

Top Tips

IMAGE kampic.com

3 4 5

REPETITION & CONSISTENCY

Repeat transitions and exercises. Be consistent in how you ask and know what you’re asking for. By repeating exercises, you build solid muscle memory, and each time you get it right or make an improvement, it becomes easier. By the time you get into the ring, your practice and dedication to consistency will really pay off.

PLAN YOUR TRAINING & MIX IT UP Put thought into what your plan is for your schooling that day, or even that week. It not only gives you more motivation, but you’ll find that having structure in your daily routine will help your training to become more productive. Write down your goals so you can see them clearly and record your progress. This will keep you accountable and motivated, keeping you on track to success!

BASICS ARE ESSENTIAL Especially when it comes to jumping, having a solid foundation of basics both on the flat and over poles is so important for balance, strength and adjustability. This will not only improve your performance but also the longevity of your horse.

TAKE YOUR TIME Never try to rush your schooling, both on the flat and over fences. A relaxed horse (and rider!) will achieve far more than a tense combination. Often when you shift your mindset into one that has all the time and space required for training, you will find that any issues that do pop up get resolved relatively quickly, as long as you stay patient and don’t get flustered.

QUALITY NOT QUANTITY It isn’t about how high you jump, or training for a full hour every time you ride. Appreciate taking small steps forward and remember – not everything has to be achieved in one ride. Ensure that you reward the horse for trying, and that you give him enough breaks. Sometimes it’s okay to have a shorter ride when everything has gone well, or when the horse has tried really hard. You could finish schooling early and go on a hack instead to reward him. C

SPECIAL FEATURE

Take your

HORSE to an WORDS Rebecca Harper

Equestrian School Taking your pony to school with you is just a dream for many horse-mad youngsters, but there are a number of schools in New Zealand that offer boarding for ponies as well as students. In this feature, we profile six secondary schools that offer specialised equestrian programmes alongside their curriculum.

“THE COACHING TEAM IS AMAZING, AND IT’S GREAT TO HAVE SO MANY PEOPLE DEDICATED TO OUR SPORT AND OUR GIRLS.”

NGA TAWA DIOCESAN SCHOOL – MARTON, MANAWATU The distinctive Nga Tawa horse truck is a familiar sight at many horse shows around the country, and the school has the oldest equestrian Academy in the country, having had horses on-site since the school was founded some 128 years ago. The school boasts the largest on-site school equestrian centre in New Zealand with impressive facilities including three allweather arenas, 80 covered yards, a 1200m all-weather exercise track, 50 acres of rolling farmland with large shared paddocks, and a cross-country course. Director of Equestrian, Libby Rayner, says there are more than 90 horses on-site and 78 riders in the programme. Despite its size, she says one of the things that makes the equine programme unique is its supportive team environment, as well as the excellent facilities. “Because we’re a boarding school, and the girls come for the equine experience, you have girls from around the country and internationally coming together with a shared passion for horses. We have a supportive family environment, and the girls are genuinely interested in learning and helping each other out. “We’re pretty passionate about having something to offer all levels of horse-loving teenage girls. We cater to all abilities, and also have 30 of our own school-owned or leased mounts of all shapes and sizes. Domestic and international students come for the programme to have an authentic equestrian experience without actually having to purchase a pony. We’re a one-stop shop!” Libby says the students, from emerging riders through to highly competitive riders, have access to top-quality professional coaches who come in and deliver lessons, as well as six resident coaches available each day for lessons. “We have girls who are national title holders or have represented their country, through to those who simply ride because they enjoy it and they love their pony.”

Students are expected to sign up for at least one lesson a week with a resident coach, and the school has a mentoring programme to help them keep track of lessons, gear, horse condition and setting goals. From Year 10 onwards, students also have the option of taking Equine Studies as an academic subject. The syllabus is built around the New Zealand Pony Club C certificate and is extended from there. From Year 11 onwards, they can complete NZQA unit standards in subjects like horse care and riding. The school’s governing board recognised that the equine programme was a real point of difference for the school and has invested a lot in facilities and support for the programme over the past 30 years. “For some time now, we’ve had really incredible support from the governing board, and that’s made a huge difference to our success and growth,” says Libby. “The coaching team is amazing, and it’s great to have so many people dedicated to our sport and our girls.” As well as their own students, Nga Tawa supports its local community, with an open branch of the Rangitikei Pony Club operating from the grounds and the facilities accessible to outside riders as well. Six local primary schools also attend lessons. “Our girls are first and foremost, but we offer and give the experience to other people in the community too.” Nga Tawa has many past and present students who have achieved at the highest level of equestrian sport, and Libby puts that down to their successful recipe. “The mentoring, coaching and transporting – I keep going back to the supportive family team because the ability to share experiences with the girls is what gives me warm fuzzies. The truck is out every weekend, and it’s the memories, not always the results, that matter. It’s about the girls’ own personal journeys and seeing them achieve their goals, no matter how big or small.”

“WE OFFER ACCESS TO AN INCREDIBLE COLLECTION OF COACHES AND HAVE A HUGE GROUP OF COMPETENT AND SPECIALIST COACHES HERE”

RANGI RURU GIRLS’ SCHOOL – CHRISTCHURCH, CANTERBURY The only girls’ secondary school in the South Island to offer a dedicated equine programme, Rangi Ruru’s comprehensive equestrian curriculum is overseen by Director of Equestrian Pippa Young and caters for riders of all levels, from 2* eventers through to international students who have never sat on a horse before, and everything in-between. Although the school has always had students who ride, and even had its own stables on-site last century, this is its sixth year of offering a specialised equine programme. There are about 80 riders involved. Pippa says the programme is incredibly flexible and rider-driven. “We cater for everyone. The whole focus is about what individual riders are looking for, and my goal is to facilitate that.” The school offers Equine Studies as an academic subject for NCEA Levels 1, 2 and 3, as well as agistment for the mounts of its students. “Because we are a city school, the horses are kept outside the city at several different venues, and we have daily transport to get girls to their horses. I also organise coaching

for different disciplines, depending on the riders and what their goals are.” No horse? No problem. The school offers a Learn to Ride course for those interested in riding, but who don’t own a horse. Rangi Ruru doesn’t have school ponies, but instead has a strong relationship with a local riding school, with riders attending lessons once a week. Students who play polo also have weekly coaching throughout the polo season with the wellknown Wood family. As well, Pippa organises and runs occasional seminars, presentations and field trips, depending on the interests and needs of the riders. “I also spend time supporting some of our more experienced riders competing at events like Horse of the Year and Equitana, mostly in show jumping and mounted games, but also in dressage and showing. We recently had two girls competing at the Taupo Three-Day who acquitted themselves very well in the 2* class against some top-class riders – Clarke Johnstone won the class, and Jock Paget was second.” The school also has students who show miniature horses and has had a

top Western pleasure rider who has represented New Zealand. As well as competing in inter-school events across five disciplines, Rangi Ruru riders are involved with Pony Club and ESNZ competitions too. Pippa sees many benefits for the students in having such a programme, helping them to achieve their equestrian goals and offering pathways to their future in the equestrian world. “It’s wonderful that we have all these riders who are totally committed to what they do, whatever level they are involved at. They love it, and this gives them access to their horses. Because we are a boarding school, it also allows our boarders who are away from home and would be away from their horses too, to bring their mounts with them. And the girls from the city have access to land to keep their horses on. “We offer access to an incredible collection of coaches and have a huge group of competent and specialist coaches here. We can also look around for coaches who will suit the needs and personalities of the girls and their horses.”

“...WE’RE NOT ‘ONE SIZE FITS ALL’ AND CAN CATER FOR ALL ABILITIES AND DISCIPLINES.”

SOLWAY COLLEGE – MASTERTON, WAIRARAPA It’s a relatively new kid on the block when it comes to an equestrian programme, but Solway College’s new Equestrian Manager and Marketing Coordinator, Elle Ifill (nee Isaac), has big plans to grow the Equestrian Academy and add to the existing facilities. This is the second year the Academy has been on-site at the school. Although Solway College is located in town, it is very fortunate to back onto the well-equipped Solway Showgrounds, with private access connecting the two properties. Facilities at the showgrounds include a cross-country course, large all-weather arenas and show jumps, and students have the option to hack around the showgrounds a couple of times a week too. “Having the horses on-site means the girls can pop out at break times to change rugs or give the ponies a pat. It’s a holistic approach and, for those who have a strong bond with their pony, it’s nice to have the ability to see them during the day,” Elle explains. Generally, terms one, two and four are the riding terms, while term three tends to be more focused on horse and rider management while the weather is less favourable. “We’re fortunate to have had 10 brandnew horse paddocks built,” Elle says. “We have two containers – one is a tack room, and one is a feed and storeroom, as well as a covered area that provides shelter when the weather is bad. “We’re also lucky to have access to the beautiful Solway Showgrounds and its facilities right on our doorstep.” Students interested in pursuing equine studies as an academic subject also have the opportunity to take their NZQA Equine Certificates at Solway. “We’re a smaller school, which allows us to be well-connected with each individual student, but we know that we can’t offer

every opportunity on-site. So we find extra opportunities for the girls to learn, where possible. Since joining the team at Solway College, I have been impressed with how they really go above and beyond to facilitate studies that align with students’ interests through outside providers as needed.” The school’s Riding Academy programme is aimed at those students who want to compete and have ambitions to progress to a higher level, and Elle currently has 12 students participating. Well-known eventer and Olympic bronze medalist Tinks Pottinger coaches the students once a week in cross-country and jumping, and weekly dressage lessons are also available from local Grand Prix dressage rider Kate Tobin. “We are very fortunate to have both coaches here in the Wairarapa teaching the girls, getting them up to a very high standard.” For those students who are boarding away from home, being able to bring their horse or pony with them is lovely, Elle says. “It allows them to have downtime and time away from school life,” she explains. “Teachers have commented that having their horse around has helped improve schoolwork for some students. The staff do everything they can to make sure students can get to see their horses, which encourages them to achieve academically.” Elle has big plans in the pipeline for the school’s equestrian programme, including adding to the recently built facilities and is seeking sponsorship to build yards, as they currently don’t have any. “My big goal is to grow the Academy and attract more students with equestrian interests. I have a marketing and business background, and we have access to incredible facilities at the showgrounds, so I want to encourage as many people into the programme as we can and really make the most of the opportunities to train there.

“Solway is able to offer a great education from an academic perspective, as well as the riding and equestrian opportunities the students are passionate about, which is really extraordinary. We’re not ‘one size fits all’ and can cater for all abilities and disciplines.” Elle has recently sourced a fantastic school pony for their Learn to Ride programme, providing opportunities for students at the school and within the wider community to get a taste of what riding is all about. FROM A SOLWAY RIDER’S PERSPECTIVE: Pongaroa’s Ruby Timothy, 12, is the youngest student in the Solway Academy. Ruby is in Year 8 and is a five-day weekly boarder at the school. She takes her pony, Soul, with her. Being able to take Soul with her to school means Ruby can continue with her riding and have access to two lessons a week, one dressage and one jumping. The pair compete in Show Hunter and Pleasure classes and are currently taking part in a dressage series. “Being here has definitely helped Soul, especially building up his fitness and strength and helping him to stay in canter for longer – when we first went, we found it difficult to stay in canter for more than half a circle!” she says. Goal planning sessions have enabled her to set goals for what she wants to achieve with her pony and be supported as she works towards them. Her big goal was to compete in Show Hunter, and she has now ticked that off the list. “I’m getting there, and I definitely want to keep going. Everything is about having fun and progressing. They want you to progress, but to have fun and enjoy it as well.” She feels the instructors and academy manager are very supportive and go above and beyond to help her. “Elle is there every

day and always helps with whatever you need – she’s really committed.” FROM A SOLWAY PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE: Ruby’s mum, Rachel Joblin, says the Academy has been of enormous benefit to her daughter. “We were sold on Solway. We had a look around and were really impressed with the school. It seemed like a good fit, and the equestrian Academy on top of that felt like the perfect opportunity – especially the access to regular lessons, which she’s

never had before.” Taking part in inter-school competitions has meant the opportunity to be part of a team as well, something Ruby hadn’t experienced before, as she hadn’t grown up with Pony Club. Rachel says it’s great to have access to such well-respected instructors as Tinks Pottinger and Kate Tobin, who are good role models for the students and inspire them. Rachel has noticed a significant difference in her daughter’s riding and relationship with her pony since she has been at Solway.

“Ruby went there with a new pony, and with the support of the instructors and academy manager, she has become more independent around making decisions about things like riding, feeding and rugging, and takes it more upon herself to trust her own judgement and skill. “Some days they ride the ponies bareback with their rugs on – it’s not the image I had of what an equestrian academy would be – it’s better! It’s all about developing that relationship with the pony and the other girls, and I think that’s really cool.”

“...THE FACILITIES ARE AMAZING, ESPECIALLY HAVING A LARGE ALL-WEATHER SURFACE ARENA RIGHT ACROSS THE ROAD.”

IONA COLLEGE – HAVELOCK NORTH, HAWKE’S BAY In response to an increasing number of student and parent enquiries, Iona launched its Equestrian Programme in 2017. For those who ride either competitively or for fun, being able to have their horse or pony close to them while at boarding school is a huge advantage. Iona College Director of Sport, Hallie Sullivan, says riders of all levels are participating across disciplines including dressage, show jumping, in-hand showing and polo. Over recent years the girls have enjoyed success at school equestrian events, A&P shows, Horse of the Year and some on the international stage. In 2016, Year 11 student Denby-Rose Tait was selected to be part of a six-strong NZ Royal Agricultural Society Youth Squad, which travelled to England to participate in the Annual Equestrian Challenge – a showing competition between New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom. Denby-Rose, the youngest New Zealand rider, was placed first runner-up, which followed an outstanding season. Iona College Principal, Helen Armstrong,

says achievements like Denby-Rose’s inspire the girls to follow their dreams and, while rider development is a key part of the Iona College Equestrian Programme, personal development is just as important. A further essential aspect of the Iona Equestrian Programme has been the ability to be agile and responsive. The college recently relaunched its equestrian programme in partnership with well-known eventer Christen Lane. Christen recently relocated to Hawke’s Bay and will work with individual riders to develop a personalised programme for each, as well as providing professional mentoring and training to develop their riding and horsemanship skills. Weekly professional coaching across the disciplines is offered, and there are options to compete with the Iona Equestrian team. Iona currently has eight students who regularly represent the college at equestrian events and many more who compete individually. Year 10 student Ellie Newman, who was first to register for Iona’s new equestrian programme, says that Christen has

helped her be able to ride competitively, while still being a full boarder. “Christen is a very bubbly and positive person. I really enjoy having lessons with her and hearing her funny stories about naughty little ponies she had when she was young. She is so helpful and has so much knowledge and expertise to share. The facilities are amazing, especially having a large all-weather surface arena right across the road. Both my horse and I are very happy!” Coaching facilities for the Iona College equestrian programme are within a 10-minute journey from the college. Transport is arranged for scheduled lessons and for supervised riding in free time. High-quality short or long-term agistment facilities are also available, and this is a contractual arrangement between individual service providers and Iona College families. This ensures the programme remains flexible and they can help match the individual needs of the rider and their horse with the facilities available in Hawke’s Bay.

georgia worth

“...MANY OF OUR RIDERS HAVE GONE ON TO REPRESENT NEW ZEALAND AT NATIONAL AND WORLD COMPETITIONS,”

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WOODFORD HOUSE – HAVELOCK NORTH, HAWKE’S BAY A recently relaunched Equestrian programme at Woodford House now has two specialised offerings – one for experienced riders and one for those wanting to learn to ride. The school caters for all riding levels, from beginner to advanced and has partnered with experienced show jumper, Tess Williams, herself an old girl of the school, to provide fullservice agistment and professional coaching for students. Tess is also trained in Equine Tactile Therapy, otherwise known as Equine Massage, and is keen to offer Woodford House students practical workshops in this area. Woodford House Director of Sport, Alex Nixon, said the school had 25 students involved in equestrian, and seven girls are part of the two new programmes offered this year. “Equestrian has always been an important sport at Woodford House and has a strong following amongst our student and wider community. Many of our riders have gone on to represent New Zealand at national and world competitions,” he says. “We work with our riders to set a plan and focus on what they want to achieve as individuals. Our coach, Tess Williams, is a high-achieving rider as well as being an old girl of Woodford House. This long-standing relationship with the school has been valuable in understanding exactly what the girls want from their riding programmes.” The two new programmes have been designed to develop the ambitions and goals of students, to help them achieve on horse back and in their lives. Both programmes are run at Golden Oaks Equestrian, a purposebuilt equestrian centre in Havelock North, just 10 minutes from the school.

As part of the Experienced Rider programme, girls can keep their mounts at Golden Oaks. Riders receive one-onone coaching each week from Tess and can visit and ride their horses each day after school. Riders in this programme do need to have their own horse and some level of riding experience. The Learn to Ride programme will be delivered by Stable Hearts, an organisation specialising in riding lessons for beginners. Also taking place at Golden Oaks twice a week, it provides students with extensive equestrian knowledge and skills. The programme is designed to enrich students’ understanding of the relationship between horse and rider, as well as personal growth and development through experiential learning. Along with learning to ride a horse, students learn about functioning as part of a team in an equine educational and work environment, including how to conduct routine care and safe handling of horses in and around an equine facility. They develop an understanding of routine requirements in maintaining healthy pasture, arena etiquette, how and why it is vital to keep stables and equipment clean and organised, and learn the language of the horse. “The Learn to Ride programme has been particularly appealing to our international students, as it provides them with an opportunity to not only ride a horse but also to learn about the different areas of horsemanship. These girls have had no prior experience around horses, so it has been very rewarding to watch their confidence, both personally and around horses, grow each week.”

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“THE ACADEMY CONSTANTLY WORKS ON CREATING PATHWAYS FOR STUDENTS TO ENTER TERTIARY EDUCATION OR EQUESTRIAN-RELATED INDUSTRY TRAINING PROGRAMMES, TO HELP THEM DEVELOP A CAREER IN THE EQUESTRIAN INDUSTRY”

ST PETER’S SCHOOL – CAMBRIDGE, WAIKATO The St Peter’s Equestrian Programme is designed to support students in setting and achieving their individual goals in a team-oriented environment. Students are expected to take an active part in managing the facilities, building invaluable experience for the future. The Rider Development programme was introduced in 2018. It is managed by three experienced equestrian coaches and is designed to help riders embed all the necessary skills to achieve their competitive goals in the FEI disciplines of Show Jumping, Eventing and Dressage, through individual goal setting. Director of Equestrian, Peter Hammond, says the Equestrian Academy also offers an NZQA Equine Studies Curriculum inclusive of NCEA credits for successfully passing the courses. Students can choose Equine Studies as a school subject from Year 9 onwards. “The Academy constantly works on

creating pathways for students to enter tertiary education or equestrian-related industry training programmes, to help them develop a career in the equestrian industry, should they so choose. This means they do not have to be a successful rider to be part of the equine industry. They can go into horse nutrition, veterinary, breeding, stable and fencing maintenance, coaching, course building, farriery and much more,” Peter explains. As well as the student-centric activities of the Rider Development and Horsemanship programmes, the St Peter’s Equestrian Academy is focused on giving back to the community. Every year the school hosts 18 jumping practice days, 12 dressage ribbon days and six regional interschools competitions. “The purpose-built Equestrian Centre is an outstanding training and horse management facility with paddocks designed specifically for the Academy by

Gallagher Animal Management Systems. Each student is allowed to bring one horse to stay at the Academy during the school term. Exceptions for a second horse may be considered for students competing at ESNZ National Series level or higher.” The extensive Academy facilities include a 90m by 80m show jumping arena permanently divided into three zones for jumping, grid work, and flatwork/lunging, a 70m by 30m dressage arena, an allweather trotting track, and a cross country practice area. There are 40 open yards and four lockable tack rooms accommodating up to 40 resident riders, plus a rug room, two feed rooms with feed bin system, 36 Gallagher Animal Management paddocks, 10 grazing paddocks, opportunities for farm rides, an equestrian classroom for Equine Studies and access to professional veterinary, farrier, dentist, feed and nutrition services. C

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OR EMAIL US FOR PAYMENT OPTIONS enquiries@showcircuit.co.nz

EQUINE LAW

with Megan Gundesen

OUR HAPPY PLACE

Threatened by faster cars, increasing hordes of cyclists, burgeoning bylaws and local body rules, equestrians are rapidly losing their access to public places. It’s time now to buck up, nip and bite, and make a call to action… In 2009, I founded the Taranaki Equestrian Network (TEN) www.taranakihorseriding.co.nz after a shocking tussle with local bureaucracy. The New Plymouth Pony Club, which had existed at the racecourse for 70 years on a handshake, was suddenly threatened with removal in six weeks’ time. Our committee objected immediately and after months of negotiations, we actually won a new, and better, space for us to continue operating in. That was the catalyst for the creation of TEN. We soon grew into a hardworking bunch of representatives from all the major horse groups in Taranaki and we dedicated ourselves to expanding riding places. It’s been hard yakka but worth it. If we don’t fight the good fight, we will end up being arena riders and our success on the world stage will diminish – and our horses’ lives will lose that variety and spice that comes with wide open spaces. Here’s some of the tips and tricks we have learned on how to maximise your impact, for the least effort. Making a noise is the number one, most essential, place-saving thing to do – as big a noise as possible – and make it in the right places. Submit every three years on your District Plan. The DP is a 10-year document but gets updated every three years. It’s no good saying you want more bridle trails or equestrian areas if you haven’t made your voice known by participating in this process. Don’t be daunted – the internet makes it easy to find your DP. Keep on top of what your local council is doing by going on its website and searching under ‘council’, ‘consultation’, ‘have your say’,‘ let’s talk’ or the like. There will be plans to change bylaws or parks or the useage of green spaces, so make sure you get a submission in by the closing date. Your submission is simply what you think about a proposal, so don’t be put off by thinking you haven’t got the right words to say. You do – and councils will help you to do it. Phone them up and ask for the name of the person in charge of the consultation. Ask them all the questions you have. You must also say that you want to speak to your submission – a key thing to do. Once your submission is in, ring the council and ask three things – when is the council hearing date, when will the Officer’s Report be ready, and who is the officer dealing with the issue? After a couple of weeks, ring that Officer and ask them if they have any questions about your submission. It’s a good thing to get them talking. Offer to meet them on-site to explain your problem. It is critical to get a copy of the Officer’s Report before you attend the council meeting. The report is usually out three days beforehand. That report will state the council’s options and what the officer’s recommendations are. Usually, council just follow the officer’s recommendation. You totally need to know what the officer recommends so that you can specifically address that when you speak in front of council. Don’t be afraid of speaking at the council meeting. Every submitter gets emailed about the meeting time so ring that person and ask them what the process is. Ask if you can send them a PowerPoint presentation which will show maps and images of your key points. It’s all about persuasion.

Include ‘data’ in your presentation – Councils love data. Tell them the NZ sporthorse industry is worth well over one billion dollars per annum. That’s 62.5 million per province! Count up the horse shops, farrier businesses, equine vets and so forth in your area – there’s a lot more business in horses than there is in rugby or netball! Use the amazingly helpful NZ Horse Network (www. nzhorseriders.info) for free resources to include in your submission or social media campaign. Consider doing your own survey to get numbers on your side. Ask a tech savvy member of your group to help via Survey Monkey, a free platform. If there are expenses involved, run a Give-a-Little page. Go on a schmooze offensive before the council meeting. Split the councillors up amongst your horse group and have coffee with them individually. Most of them won’t know anything about the equine industry, so it’s an excellent opportunity to introduce them to your cause, and to find out their sticking points and their biases. You need to work both the councillors and the officers (the paid council staff). The officers are usually extremely well-qualified, degree-trained, career-minded people (seemingly always mountain bikers these days!) who tend to overwhelm the councillors with facts and figures and their own agendas. The councillors, by contrast, have the voters’ interests at heart and are usually hopeful of being re-elected at the end of their three-year term. Ask them whether they support horses on shared trails in the right places – it signals that there could be votes available to them if they do – then let your networks know their views. We live in a society that now encourages diversity and wellbeing, so let’s claim that for the women and girls that predominate in our sport. Take up the challenge to claim a share of the cyclists’ pathways – it’s unfair that our equine sports, which produce high economic return together with healthy productive humans (proven fact), are given so little by local government. Its time for a change.

* Whilst this article is accurate to the best of the author’s knowledge, it is written to provide general information only. FairPlay Legal Ltd does not accept any responsibility or liability for actions taken or damage resulting from use of the information. Readers are advised to seek their own legal advice in respect of their own situation and circumstances.

101

HEALTH

HOW A MO

R RIDING YOU

LL CAN HE A B LP IL TY

NICOLA IS A PERSONAL TRAINER & WELLNESS COACH WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO LOVE DRESSAGE. SHE RUNS A POPULAR DRESSAGE RIDER TRAINING WEBSITE, HELPING RIDERS IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH AND FITNESS OFF THE HORSE. Nicola applies her knowledge in sports conditioning, biomechanics and scientific core training to help riders improve their riding performance. Download her free Dressage Rider Fitness Guide at dressageridertraining.com WORDS Nicola Smith

No matter what age you are, the goal is to keep your body healthy and supple. This not only prevents injury, but also helps you to move more freely and be able to do more of the sport that you love. Keeping your body supple and elastic will not only help your riding, but will also help you to feel more youthful. Working on your mobility isn’t just about your muscles, it’s also about your fascia. Healthy youthful fascia is elastic and reactive, with a bounce to it – all qualities that are required of us as riders.

pain can occur away from the actual site of irritation. This can create ‘blockages’ and areas that feel stuck.

In this article, I introduce the mobility ball and explain how it can help you to become more supple.

A type of soft tissue therapy used in osteopathy to release physically restricted musculoskeletal groups. It is believed that chronic tension and trauma cause the fascia to become fixed in a particular position, known as a myofascial restriction. Manipulation of the myofascial group is believed to resolve the restriction.

The power of a mobility ball comes into play when we talk about myofascial pain and what are commonly called ‘trigger points’. These are described as small, hyper-irritable areas within a muscle. Trigger points can be expressed as referred pain, meaning that the

102

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE [my-o-FASH-e-ul] Definition

What m atters most is your ab ilit y to positio n a ma ssage b correc all tly and target given a the rea, th e n to be to cont able rol the p ressure apply t you o the s pecific body p arts.

WHY HEALTHY FASCIA MATTERS During movement, our fascia must be able to move and stretch freely. If there are blockages or damage to the fascia due to injury or inflammation, issues can likely occur. As mentioned earlier, myofascial pain tends to be referred, so it will not only affect the site of injury but also radiates to other structures, causing imbalances and irritation. In order for optimal function of the body, tightness must be released in all areas. This allows your joints to move freely and your muscles to function optimally. Myofascial release reduces tension and improves your overall performance. This release can be done using multiple techniques, such as: • Sports massage • Acupuncture • Use of a mobility ball or foam roller. Because we can’t all have a massage therapist or acupuncturist on tap, a good tool to have in your tool belt is the mobility ball. Using it consistently can help to release tension in your fascia and improve the overall health of your body. If you are dealing with any injuries or

acute tension, I would suggest working with a physiotherapist first and then introduce the mobility ball later on, under their guidance.

MOBILITY BALL Mobility balls come in all shapes and sizes. Some have hard spikes on them and some are the shape of peanuts. The ones I like to use are the size and texture of a lacrosse ball, which is slightly smaller than a tennis ball and made of hard rubber. These are hard enough to get deep into any niggles and are the right size to manoeuvre around, making it easy for you to take care of any small niggles that may pop up. They can’t replace a really good deep tissue sports massage, but they can help you with some ‘self-care’, which will pay off in the long run. What matters most is your ability to position a mobility ball correctly and target the given area, then to be able to control the pressure you apply to the specific body parts. Here are my two favourite exercises I do routinely with a mobility ball, which target common tight areas for riders. I do these exercises once or twice a week to help

103

rebalance my body and release any areas that have tightened up. There is no set time frame you should stick to for each area that you work on. Just start gently, so you can get comfortable with the mobility ball and feel how it works. The more you use it, the more you can really get into those niggly areas and feel the benefits.

GLUTES Sit on the ground with your knees bent. Place the ball under one side of your bottom, keeping the other side on the ground. Using your feet and your hands, adjust how much weight you wish to have on the ball. The more weight you use, the more intense the massage will be. Roll the ball around until you find tight spots; either hold the pressure on them, or gently rock back and forth over these areas. Start gently, with just a couple of minutes. Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in more of a routine with this exercise, you can spend longer doing it.

UPPER BACK Lying on your back, place the ball beneath your scapula (shoulder blades) then gently roll back and forth until you find those sore spots that you can either hold pressure over, or gently rock around to help them release. If you find this too intense on the ground, you can do the same exercise against a wall. Start gently and allow your body to get used to the exercise without getting too intense. The more you do it, the better you will know how much to do. Like anything though, start off kindly and gradually increase the pressure as you get more comfortable. These exercises, when used regularly, will help you to release tension in your body and become looser and more supple, which will make life easier for both you and your horse when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the saddle. C

104

Nourishing

RECIPE

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP This is one of my favourite soups and I make it often, as it’s a really good way to use your chicken bones. It’s great to have in the slow cooker over the weekend, and it goes great as a takeaway to competitions too! INGREDIENTS

1 whole chicken 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 4 cloves garlic 1 onion Rice noodles

2 cups finely chopped leeks 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms 1 cup frozen peas Himalayan rock salt ¼ cup kimchi

INSTRUCTIONS 1.

To make the broth: roast the chicken and allow it to cool down so that you can strip the meat off. Place the bones and skin into your slow cooker or a large pot and cover with water. Add in your apple cider vinegar, roughly chopped garlic and onion. Cover and allow this to cook for 12-24 hours. Once it has finished cooking, carefully drain the broth and then add it back to the pot. (You can do this step ahead of time and freeze the broth to have on-hand for whenever you wish.)

Add finely chopped leeks, mushrooms, peas and salt to your broth and allow it to simmer in the slow cooker until the vegetables are cooked.

Add the rice noodles and shredded chicken approx. 1-2 hours before you want to have it ready.

Just before serving, add the magic ingredient of kimchi. Season with a bit of extra salt if needed.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Nicola Smith has over 300 RECIPES on her website www.foreverfit.tv that will get your taste buds excited. 105

STALLION SHOWCASE - BREED THE BEST THIS SEASON

SHOWCIRCUIT

NEW ZEALAND’S ULTIMATE EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

FEATURING AMBERLEY HOUSE ASTEK STUD BLUE BLOOD STUD CAITHNESS STUD CHEVAUX DANSANTS STABLES CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN ELITE FROZEN FOALS NZ EURO SPORT HORSES GOLDENGROVE STUD FARM GRASSYARDS FARM KELARAY STUD KENLOCK PARK STUD LINDEN PONY STUD MATAWHIO SPORTHORSES MAUNGATUA EQUESTRIAN NGAHIWI STATION NZ HANOVERIAN SOCIETY NZWB ASSOCIATION PL PERFORMANCE HORSES PURE EQUESTRIAN TREVALDA IRISH SPORTHORSES XTREME SPORT HORSES

STUDS & STALLIONS ISSUE ONE | 2019

CANDYMAN GNZ

HOLSTEIN

CANDYMAN GNZ IS A SENSATIONAL YOUNG STALLION WITH THE LOOKS, MOVEMENT AND PEDIGREE OF A SUPERSTAR AND ALMOST UNLIMITED ABILITIES WITH A REFINED TECHNIQUE.

CANDYMAN GNZ

This magnificent 16.1hh young stallion exhibits athleticism, scope, and correct conformation suitable for breeding a modern type of showjumping or eventing athlete. His ancestry is not only loaded with extraordinary mare families, but also stallions who are well recognised for their ‘history-making’ influence. His progeny are outstanding, see image below.

Dam Lily GNZ (Holsteiner)

Carentino Casall

(Holsteiner)

Caletto II (Holsteiner)

Isidor

(Holsteiner)

Kira XVII (Holsteiner)

Lavall I

(Holsteiner)

Maltia

(Holsteiner)

Corrado 1 Lily GNZ (Holsteiner)

(Holsteiner)

(Selle Français HLP)

Soleil

(Holsteiner)

Fleets Treat Jnr GNZ (Holsteiner)

Cor de la Bryère

Corlando (Holsteiner)

Fleets Treat (Thoroughbred)

Like all CASALL (pictured) sons, CANDYMAN GNZ has enormous scope, power and agility.

CANDYMAN GNZ is an outstanding stallion, with his good looks, excellent conformation and modern type.

STUD STUD FEE FEE:- $2500 $2500 ++ GST GST -- LFG LFG FRESH SEMEN AVAILABLE

FLINT CSNZ - scored 84.75% in the recent NZWB Approval Tour. Bred by Cheleken Equestrian

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ALL STALLIONS

www.goldengrovenz.com

EUROCOMMERCE PENNSYLVANIA ONE OF TWO STALLIONS IN NEW ZEALAND THAT HAS COMPETED AT 5* LEVEL AND IS FULLY APPROVED BY HANOVERIAN, OLDENBURG AND THE BAVARIAN WARMBLOOD STUDBOOKS Pennsylvania is 16.3hh and is the only stallion to come to the Southern Hemisphere that has competed in Nations Cup events for the Netherlands and the Global Champions Tour and World Cup Final. Despite having had limited mares due to his competition career, he has progeny currently jumping at 5*. His pedigree is one of royalty in show jumping that includes some of the best bloodlines available.

PENNSYLVANIA

Grannus

(Hanoverian) KWPN, OLDBG, HANN

Gambrinus (BAVAR)

Perle

(BAVAR)

Pilot Goldfee

(WESTF)

(BAVAR)

Goldperle (Hanoverian)

Progeny: BRINDIS BOGIBO, Grand Prix 5*. Pictured at Governor’s Cup, Tryon International Equestrian Center ridden by Andrew Welles (USA)

HOLSTEIN

RHINELAND

HANOVERIAN

OLDENBURG

Graphit

(Hanoverian)

Odessa

(Hanoverian)

Karim

(BADWU)

Panja

(BAVAR)

Pilatus (WESTF)

Gratia

(WESTF)

Goldstern (Hanoverian)

Glorie

(Hanoverian)

EUROCOMMERCE PENNSYLVANIA stands at 16.3hh, is a modern type with an outstanding technique.

STUD FEE: $3000.00 + GST - LFG

EUROCOMMERCE PENNSYLVANIA pictured in the Nations Cup, for Team Netherlands, ridden by Gerco Schröder

Email: p.ffoulkes@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 318 7337 - Mobile: 021 919 262 FB page: Goldengrove Stud Farm

www.goldengrovenz.com

QUINEUS GNZ

HOLSTEIN

16.3HH, BAY, AGE: 5 THIS STALLION HAS IT ALL, AND HE IS AN EYECATCHING STALLION. HE IS A POWERFUL, PUNCHY STALLION, WHO IS QUICK OVER THE GROUND AND IN THE AIR, WITH A PHENOMENAL HIND END AND BOUNDLESS SCOPE.

Quineus GNZ is very uphill, leggy with a great shoulder and shape to the neck. He has three outstanding gaits; lengthy walk, expressive trot with excellent mechanics, and an uphill, active canter which is very balanced. He displays this super movement both at liberty and under saddle with an exceptional character, and a very willing and happy attitude towards work.

Dam Lily GNZ (Holsteiner)

QUINEUS GNZ shows power, scope and technique. He is a powerful, careful stallion with outstanding rideability.

Quidam de Revel

QUINEUS GNZ

Quineus GNZ is the embodiment of the diversity in our breeding goals. He is an exciting prospect Quineus GNZ is the embodiment of the diversity for show jumping in New Zealand. in our breeding goals. He is an exciting prospect He has limitless scope, an for show jumping in New Zealand. He has excellent technique and limitless scope, an excellent technique and a wonderful temperament. a wonderful temperament.

Quantum

(Selle Français)

Jalisco B

(Selle Français)

Dirka

(Selle Français)

Cor de la Bryère

Ulla V

(Selle Français HLP)

(Holsteiner)

Ella

(Holsteiner)

Gambaldi

Genius

(Hanoverian)

With excellent conformation, he has a good foundation and outstanding basic gaits, coming from strong hindquarters with high elasticity and always in rhythm.

STUD STUD FEE FEE:- $2500 $2500 ++ GST GST -- LFG LFG FRESH SEMEN AVAILABLE

Dreamy

(Hanoverian)

Te Peka Galeno (Hanoverian)

(Hanoverian)

Raenga

Postillion

(Thoroughbred)

Puherangi

(Thoroughbred)

Holstein stallion, QUANTUM (SIRE) produced numerous international showjumpers.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ALL STALLIONS

www.goldengrovenz.com

HOLIDAY V/D N. RANCH

HOLSTEIN

16.2 1/2 HH, DARK BAY, AGE: 11 HOLIDAY HAS IT ALL! HE IS A SUPER MODERN TYPE OF HORSE IDEALLY SUITED FOR NZ CONDITIONS WITH A PHENOMENAL TEMPERAMENT AND EXQUISITE QUALITY THAT TICKS THE THREE PS: PEDIGREE, PERFORMANCE AND PRESENCE

HOLIDAY V/D N.RANCH

At seven years old Holiday competed to 1.40 in both Belgium and Germany. He was subsequently sold to the USA where he jumped to 1.55 but retired from the sport due to a tendon injury at nine. He is by Massimo, which is Cassini 1/Reichsgraf/Cor De La Bryere Stamm 4815. He is an outstanding stallion family with the likes of Silvester one of the most influential stallions of Holsteiner breeding a significant influence in the production of broodmare and top-level sporting horses.

Cassini I

(Holst, Rhein, SF)

Massimo (Holst)

Dona V (Holst)

Capitol I (Holst)

Wisma (Holst)

Reichsgraf (Holst)

Sormana (Holst)

Furioso II ORAGE B

SF, Oldbg, Hann

(SBS)

Janouk Du Preys (SBS)

HOLIDAY V/D jumped to 1.55 until his retirement and has very influential bloodlines

Furioso xx

Holiday’s dam (Orage B) was a career broodmare and is a 1/2 sister to 1.60 jumping stallions - Quasar Du Houssoit and Platini Du Houssoit. She is by one of the most influential stallions of the 21st century in jumping breeding who is Furioso 2. Furioso 2 sired stallions “For Pleasure” at 1.60m that include - Faroek, Heisman, Mirakel, First Gotthard, Furioso Z, Ferrari and Faust. And too many other 1.60 show jumpers to mention!

Dame De Ranville (SF)

Avontuur (KWPN )

Anouk Du Bosqueau (SBS)

HOLIDAY V/D N RANCH is a particularly attractive stallion, with a temperament that is second to none.

STUD FEE: $2500.00 + GST - LFG FRESH SEMEN AVAILABLE

CASSINI I (GRAND SIRE) is one of the most successful Holstein stallions of all time

Email: p.ffoulkes@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 318 7337 - Mobile: 021 919 262 FB page: Goldengrove Stud Farm

www.goldengrovenz.com

NĂ&#x161;MERO UNO XTREME By Numero Uno (pref) out of Cassaro Xtreme (Cassini II)

This exciting young stallion has a very athletic and scopey jump with a wonderful technique. His progeny are exquisite, they are very modern and possess incredible movement plus amazing temperaments. Numero Uno Xtreme is by the very famous international show jumping stallion Numero Uno (Libero H x Lord Calando). Following a very successful show jumping career with European Champion Marco Kutsher, Numero Uno today has proven himself to be one of the leading sires in the world. Numero Uno (Sire)

Sport HoRsEs

16.1hh 8-yr-old Grey Stallion

STUD FEE: $2000 + GST Sharleen Workman - T: 021 380 943 E: shar-xtremesporthorses@mail.com

COROFINO II Corrado x Fernando x Lord

Sport HoRsEs

Corofino II boasts one of the most successful jumping families to come out of the Holsteiner Verband. During his 30 day stallion test he received a 10 for character, 9 for temperament and 10 for jumping. Accordingly, he significantly stamps his offspring with his impressive scope, carefulness and temperament, which provide the highly sought after â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rideabilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; factor. Progeny - Windermere Cappuccino

Progeny - Corodette Xtreme

17hh Licensed Holsteiner and Hanoverian Approved Stallion

STUD FEE: $2700 + GST Sharleen Workman - T: 021 380 943 E: shar-xtremesporthorses@mail.com

www.corofino.co.nz

CARTIER GNZ Fresh Semen Available for AI Stud Fee $1200 + GST - LFG

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Cartier GNZ is five years old, 16.3hh and an extremely exciting young stallion who carries some of the best international bloodlines including Lansing, Casall, Caretino, Contango II and Lander. He has a fantastic presence and endless amounts of presence, power and scope. Paired with his exceptional temperament and rideability will make him the ideal choice for breeding your next jumping prospect.

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CARTELL GNZ HOLSTEINER

CARTIER GNZ 2014 HOLSTEINER

NEARCO BLACK GNZ 2005 HOLSTEINER

{ {

CASALL* b 167 cm 1999 HOLSTEINER YETAR SPRINGS JAYNE HOLSTEINER LANSING* gr 165 cm 1995 HOLSTEINER BERTHA GNZ 2000 HOLSTEINER

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Equestrian Centre

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For more information please contact Pure Equestrian Centre Phone 021 2537662 - Email pureequestrian@hotmail.com

CARETINO* CARETINO* KIRA XVI JADALCO* CORAL LANDGRAF I* MONOLINE CORLANDO* NEARCO NESS

CALICO GNZ Fresh Semen Available for AI Stud Fee $1700 + GST - LFG

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Calico GNZ is five years old and stands at 16.2hh. He is an international quality young stallion who demands attention. He is modern and elegant with great bone, excellent conformation, fantastic paces and admirable technique over a fence. He is by International sire Calato who is one of the best sons of the legendary Captiol 1. Calato is the sire of many international Grand Prix jumpers, and Calico GNZ allows the New Zealand market access to these fabulous bloodlines with the ease of chilled semen.

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CALATO* gr 169 cm 1987 HOLSTEINER

FLEETS TREAT JNR GNZ HOLSTEINER

CALICO GNZ 2014 HOLSTEINER

{ {

CAPITOL I* 169 cm HOLSTEINER VANESSA III* 165 cm HOLSTEINER CORLANDO* 1996 HOLSTEINER FLEETS TREAT 1990 THOROUGHBRED

ure

Equestrian Centre

{ { { {

CAPITANO* FOLIA* LANDGRAF I* RENAISSANCE CONTANGO II* LAMONA SIR FLEET EASTERN SILVER

For more information please contact Pure Equestrian Centre Phone 021 2537662 - Email pureequestrian@hotmail.com

STRIKE GOLD Fresh Semen Available for AI Stud Fee $1000 + GST - LFG

{

Strike Gold is a 98.5% Thoroughbred Palomino stallion. He is a beautiful, athletic stallion with a relaxed nature. He has gorgeous paces and a lovely uphill canter. Being 98.5% Thoroughbred, Strike Gold will nicely refine any breed he is put to, adding quality and athleticism.

{

DIAMOND PARK SINATRA* crem 16H; +CrCr AUSTRALIAN STOCK HORSE

{ {

STRIKE CLOVER THOROUGHBRED

STRIKE GOLD 2013 AUSTRALIAN STOCK HORSE

DIAMOND PARK MIKASA* crem 15.3H 2003 AUSTRALIAN SPORT HORSE DIAMOND PARK ROYAL WHISPER* pal 16.2H 1996 AUSTRALIAN STOCK HORSE STRAIGHT STRIKE b 1977 THOROUGHBRED (USA) REGAL PERFUME 1985 THOROUGHBRED

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Equestrian Centre

{ { { {

DIAMOND PARK GOLD OBSESSION* DIAMOND PARK SOLITAIRE* GOLDMINE ASHANTI GOLD* ARUDA MR PROSPECTOR* BEND NOT VICE REGAL LANCOME

For more information please contact Pure Equestrian Centre Phone 021 2537662 - Email pureequestrian@hotmail.com

FEED TO SUCCEED

Take the guesswork out of feeding your mare and foal

NRMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategic partnership with Kentucky Equine Research offers you the latest in equine nutrition research, technology and expertise to help you get the most out of your breeding programme. To learn more visit www.nrm.co.nz

FEED TO SUCCEED

FAR_08260

0800 800 380 www.nrm.co.nz

KOLBEACH HOLLY’S MASTERPIECE

imp Aus

14hh Mahogany Bay Riding Pony Born 2008 Sire: Fernleigh Fine Print Dam: Gemstone, imp UK

Although still a relatively young sire, Masterpiece has already had a huge impact on the showing scene in New Zealand. His progeny have won twelve Horse of the Year titles. At the 2019 Horse of the Year six ponies by Masterpiece won their title classes including Linden Just a Dream, winner of the Medium Show Pony of the Year, and Linden Realms of Glory, who was awarded Large Show Pony of the Year. Progeny of Masterpiece have also won the prestigious NZ Riding Pony Society’s North Island Melville Black Memorial for the past four years. Leaving outstanding progeny, Masterpiece is becoming New Zealand’s most sought after show pony sire. SERVICE FEE $1450.00 inc $250.00 handling fee or $1250.00 inc $250.00 handling fee for bookings made before 31st October, 2019 NATURAL SERVICE OR AI Chilled semen available nationwide

FERNLEIGH FRONT PAGE

imp Aus

13.2hh Black Riding Pony Born 2004 Sire: Owendale Percival Dam: Panteg Portrait

Superbly bred Front Page is a full brother to Australia’s outstanding super sire Fernleigh Fine Print. A multi Royal Champion in Australia, he made his NZ debut at the Royal Easter Show – Auckland 2018, where he was judged Supreme Champion Led Exhibit of the Show over all breeds and heights. Registered with the Welsh Pony & Cob Society of NZ, he is 58% Welsh making his progeny eligible for part bred Welsh registration. Front Page’s oldest progeny in NZ are yearlings and his only two youngsters to be shown to date are already Supreme Champions. His progeny are inheriting his glorious pony head, huge extravagant movement and sensible, kind temperament. Sire of multi champions in Australia this beautiful stallion will be a great asset to all breeders of show ponies in New Zealand. SERVICE FEE $1450.00 inc $250.00 handling fee or $1250.00 inc $250.00 handling fee for bookings made before 31st October, 2019 NATURAL SERVICE OR AI Chilled semen available nationwide

Photo: Show Circuit Photography

530 Pinnacle Hill Road, Bombay, Auckland

email: info@lindenponystud.co.nz ﬁnd us on facebook

phone: 09 23 60705 mobile: 021 264 5280

For further information & pedigrees please visit our website www.lindenponystud.co.nz

EURO SPORT HORSES www.eurosporthorses.co.nz

2016 Nations Cup, Ocala, Florida PHOTO ESI Photography

EURO SPORT

CENTAVOS

172cm 2004 Black/Brown Stallion

"Euro Sport Centavos is extremely scopey (powerful) and careful, intelligent & lovely to ride! Traits we all hope for." Multiple Olympic & World Championship SJ Medalist - BEEZIE MADDEN

Escudo l x Argentinus x Bariton Fresh/chilled semen and WFFS free Service fee $2000 + GST LFG Cannot produce chestnut offspring

ES Centavos is fully approved for Hanoverian, Oldenburg, SBS and NZWB studbooks. He is an International 1.60m Show Jumper, representing New Zealand in the Furusiyya Nation’s Cup in Ocala, FL 2016. 2015 Silver Fern Stakes & NZ Horse of the Year Champion and winner of countless Grand Prix. NZSJ High Performance Squad Member in 2016/17. ES Centavos’ young progeny have already amassed 7 National titles in Show Jumping & Eventing, and many more Island and Regional champions across the disciplines. Centavos’ progeny earned him the title of Champion Sire at the 2017/18 NZ Young Horse Show Jumping & Show Hunter Show. He was also the sire of 2018 NZ Hanoverian Tour Jumper Foal Champion ‘Everlast’ (Danske xx), as well as three ‘Premium’ ranked foals.”

Email: eurosporthorses@hotmail.com Cell: 021 907 227 or 027 223 4818

EURO SPORT HORSES www.eurosporthorses.co.nz

EURO SPORT

KALASKA 168cm 2015 Bay Stallion Kalaska de Semilly x Centadel x Quilot Z Service fee $2000 + GST LFG • Licensed for Hanoverian & AES Studbooks • Carries 50% Thoroughbred blood • Sire is Olympic and WEG competitor KALASKA DE SEMILLY, sired by DIAMANT DE SEMILLY out of NORMANDY NIGHT (1.60m SJ & puissance winner at 2.25m). • ES KALASKA’S dam, CENTA QUICK PS, in less than two seasons of competition is competing to 1.40m with clear rounds & style scores up to 9. • CENTA QUICK PS is maternal sister to 6 CSI show jumpers. They are: CARILOT 5* 1.60m SJ & World Cup winner with riders Ludger Beerbaum, Christian Kukuk & Phillip Weishaupt, CARQUILOT 5* 1.60m SJ with Nicolas Pizarro, ROLLS / KALOTUS 1.60m SJ with Liubov Kochetova, KATYUSA 1.55m SJ, CASSIUS S 1.45m SJ, & QUICK LUCY 1.40m SJ.

“This horse is very modern, uses its body in a good way, a lot of action and strength in the hind legs, great technique in the front legs, uses its back properly, a beautiful and chic stallion.” XAVIER LEREDDE - Superstar French rider & breeder.

EURO SPORT

DIAMANT B 176cm 2014 Grey Stallion Diacontinus x Calido I x Calypso II Service Fee: $2000 + GST LFG • Licensed for Hanoverian & NZWB studbooks • Sire DIACONTINUS is the No.1 ranked sire on the German FN Show Jumping Young Horse Rankings (the only ranking he is eligible for currently with his oldest progeny being 5yr olds). He leads with an index of 165, far ahead of second placed star stallions Stakkato & Perigueux tied on 156!

2016 Hanoverian Licensing, Verden, Germany PHOTO Sabrina Lorenz

Diamant B impressing at the Hanoverian Licensing. At the following Licensing auction the under bidder for him was Olympic Gold Medalist Ludger Beerbaum.

• DIAMANT B’S Dam side combines the blood of the Champion sires CALIDO I & CALYPSO II. This high performing dam line features numerous Advanced level (1.40m - 1.60m) jumpers, Advanced dressage horses, and Approved stallions. • DIAMANT B is developing beautifully under saddle. He has a wonderful work ethic, and limitless power. He is giving size, scope temperament and movement to his young progeny.

ALL STALLIONS ARE AVAILABLE VIA FRESH/CHILLED SEMEN AND ARE WFFS FREE

Find us on:

Email: eurosporthorses@hotmail.com - Cell: 021 907 227 or 027 223 4818

EURO SPORT

DIMERO NN Z 2016 168cm Skewbald Zangersheide Stallion Diamant de Semilly x Casper van Erpekom x Querlybet Hero Service fee $2000 + GST LFG • Carries 42% Thoroughbred blood • Sire DIAMANT DE SEMILLY is world famous for not only his performances under saddle, but as a sire. He is currently ranked No. 2 in the WBFSH World SJ sire rankings, and was No.1 in 2015/16. • Dam CALIMERA Z’s oldest son, Nutella Duo NN Z was a finalist in the 2018 British 5yo Championship, and now at 6 is competing to 1.30m • From the direct dam line of CSI show jumpers KRISKRAS DV 1.60m, Gucci DV 1.50m & HEROS DV 1.40m, the 3* eventer EDDY WALLY, approved stallions FARCO VAN VRIESPUT (AES, BSPA & CHAPS, with 9.5 for jumping ability), EDDY WALLY (BWP & AES), SOCRATES (BWP), & OBI WAN (AES) who is a 5yr old winner in Spain 2019, also PEROLA COLORIDA 5th place 2017 2yr old BWP National free jumping Championship.

“Not only special in colour, but also in his pedigree! The only coloured son of Diamant de Semilly” Flanders Foal Auction Committee

EURO SPORT

DARCO OBOLENSKY 2016 Black 168cm Darco x Cornet Obolensky x Grannus Service fee $2000 + GST LFG • Performance tested & Approved for BWP studbook • “He is a wonderful horse with everything! His temperament is perfect, he is a really good jumper, careful and a lot of scope. Also his ride ability is perfect.” EDWIN AGTERHUIS, Trainer & rider for BWP Approval. Breaker/trainer/rider of top young horses for prominent owners & breeders such as VDL Stud. • One of the last sons of legendary DARCO, one of the best competitors and sires of his time, ranked no.1 sire in the world 2007-2011. Now no.1 dam sire.

“DARCO OBOLENSKY shows a lot of power. He is a strong stallion who is expected to follow in the footsteps of his father DARCO.” - BWP Stallion Approval Committee (PICTURED: PERIMETER FENCE IS 2M HIGH)

• Descends from the 58/Hima III-stam, responsible for many top level jumpers including 1.60m jumpers CANTURADO 2, LA SUPRA, CARIBIK 7, CALIENTE II & LUISA D • Closely related to elite competition & breeding stallion CORNET’S PRINZ

SWE DEMPSEY

STUD FEE $2000.00 + GST LFG APPLIES

Pictured: Duncan Norrie riding SWE Dempsey

Rhineland Stallion by Damsey FRH X Dressage Royal/ Sir Donnerhall/Rubenstein Negative for WFFS. Cannot produce a chestnut foal. SWE Dempsey is now classified and registered with the Rhineland and NZ Warmblood Associations so his foals can now be registered with these bodies. A very correct horse showing tremendous trainability and scope under saddle, Dempsey turns heads wherever he goes. Dempseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sire Damsey ridden by Helen Langehanenberg now named the highest ranked dressage stallion in the world!!!

KINNORDY GYM BELLO

SPECIAL PRICE

Hanoverian Stallion by Gymnastik Star / Graf Landau Sire of multiple champions over all disciplines Gym Bello progeny are known for their exceptional trainability, good movement, lovely heads and athletic bodies. With the passing of his sire GYMNASTIK STAR A1 classified stallion and Graf Landau / Gottard lines more difficult to find Gym Bello combines these bloodlines and has proven his worth throughout NZ with many now also exported as competition mounts.

STUD FEE $2000.00 + GST LFG APPLIES

STUD FEE $1250.00 + GST, LFG APPLIES

ASTEK QUATERMASTER Oldenburg stallion by Quaterback / Flemmingh/ Weltmeyer/Grannus Highest classified Champion Stallion NZWBA Classification Tour 2016. Astek Quatermaster is one of those stallions that impresses all who tour the stud. His majestic presence and beautifully balanced correct conformation are noticed instantly alongside his kind eye and wonderful temperament. He holds enormous power in his straight, balanced, elevated movement and it creates a total package hard to ignore. Astek Quatermaster is breeding exceptional horses for both dressage and jumping homes.

E info@astek.co.nz | P Sue Fowler 027 222 5037

www.astek.co.nz

CORNET’S AIR STUD FEE

$2,500 + GST, LFG APPLIES

Holsteiner stallion by Cornet Obolensky x Dark Air/ Diarado

By the mighty Cornet Obolensky (Clinton X Heartbreaker) rated as #4 in the world and represented by a growing number of champions. His Dam Dark Air – by Diarado (obvious winner in his 2007 licensing) alongside her motherline hold extraordinary connections of winners and approved stallions in their pedigree. In partnership with Gerd Küst’s Stamm 8888 Holsteiner Stud which now has four generations of elite mares and 12 licensed stallions Astek sees the arrival of Cornet’s Air as the epitome of its breeding career. “Breeding just doesn’t get any more exciting than this! to have a stallion of this calibre available as fresh semen in NZ heralds the beginning of the countries downunder becoming Internationally VERY competitive” We are very excited to see his first foals due late 2019.

E info@astek.co.nz P Sue Fowler 027 222 5037

www.astek.co.nz

S tallion Line Up of 2019/2020

Crave FF

Mash x Bremervale Charmed

Purebred Arabian $1320 per breeding, 3 doses, LFG. Crave FF first NZ born progeny via frozen semen was awarded 2019 NZ National Champion Junior Filly â&#x20AC;&#x153;BFF Cinderellaâ&#x20AC;? Australian Champion East Coast Champion Multi A Class Supreme Champion

Triple Trees Prince Perfect

Concherto FF

Veenstras Promise x Helsehoeves Henriete

Burren-Dah The Wizard (exp) x Aloha Symphony

Elite Dutch Riding Pony / Warmblood Pony

Brown 15.2hh Anglo Arabian stallion

$700.00 breeding dose (very limited doses remaining) Approved NZ Warmblood Association, NZAHS

$880.00 per breeding (3 doses), (limited doses available), LFG. Multi Australian Champion in multiple disciplines

Kelaray Stud is proudly sponsored by: Equilibrium Australia & Cedar Lodge Equine Products

280A Heath Road, RD1, Awanui, Kaitaia 0486 Email: kelly@kelaray.com - Phone: (64) 09 408 7935

Kelaray Stud

Breeding Champions

For sale Kelaray Mystique

Willowcroft Grand Mikado x Bluegrass Made in Heaven

Arabian Riding Pony, 5yrs. Multi Supreme Champion Led, recently started under saddle, very honest and willing young mare that will go far in the show ring. Video available on request. $9,000 (negotiable)

For sale

Kelaray Special Edition

Kahurangi Silhouette x Aloha Touch of Class

Pinto tobiano weanling colt to mature 16.2hh (est) Currently stabled / rugged etc Will be registered Pinto & NSAHS $10,000 (negotiable)

For more information and photos, including progeny, please visit our website or contact us directly.

www.kelaray.com

Ngahiwi Station presents

NGAHIWI ONE EYE The best of Ngahiwi and the KWPN in New Zealand

SERVICE FEE $2,000 + GST

A PROVEN SIRE Ngahiwi One Eye has produced successful offspring including

TWO EYE SEE

MEA I Cor De La Bryere

VDL Corland

Keur en Elite

Thyra

NGAHIWI ONE EYE

Panikau

Ngahiwi Alchemist Judy

NGAHIWI LOONE

Rantzau XX Quenotte Landgraf I Odetta Atomic Briar Rose Sunburn Colt Rosie

MELANIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHOICE

For all stud bookings contact Bruce Holden, Ngahiwi Station. Frozen semen is available from Equibreed. P: 06 867 5253 | M: 027 335 0596 | E: fspence@xtra.co.nz Ngahiwi Station, PO Box 930, Gisborne 4040

DC A National Champion himself, now Donnerubin is the sire of the greatest number of NZ Dressage Champions in the lower levels (his progeny are still young) since 2016 onwards! That is the power of using a stallion with the highly inheritable bloodlines of Donnerhall (Donnerubin is a double cross) and Rubinstein. 12 years old - 16.1hh. Donnerubin produces champions under saddle where it counts.

NZWA PERFORMANCE LICENCED STALLION

Donnerubin started at his first season Grand Prix dressage in 2017-2018. Donnerubin is the first stallion in NZ’s history to be trained from foal to Grand Prix by one person, and better yet, I had never ridden level 5 before him, he was my first stallion and my first young horse! That is a beauty of these bloodlines, talented and still trainable. the WBFSH Sire Rankings for dressage. It is this kind of reliability that we as breeders look for when choosing a stallion that is going to produce an outstanding foal. • This is why Donnerubin progeny continue to dominate in the dressage arenas. They are both talented, stunning to look at, but more importantly are incredibly trainable. These traits are inherited from the strong Donnerhall genes. Donnerubin being a double cross of the Donnerhall bloodline, means he stamps his progeny extremely strongly. • Donnerubin is the sire with the highest number of progeny who were National and Regional dressage champions since 2016. • Donnerubin is also the sire of the 2017 National

• Donnerubin continues to gain strength and confidence in his Grand Prix competition career and training. It is a really exciting and proud time for us both! • Donnerubin has been tested as being free of the WFFS gene. • We are proud to announce that in 2017 the NZ Warmblood Association has licenced Donnerubin off his performance results. His progeny can now be included in the main studbook. • Donnerubin’s bloodlines in particular the Donnerhall bloodline continue to be highest represented in the world dressage rankings. Donnerhall and now his son’s and grandson’s for the past over 10 years have held the highest number of top 10 spots on

Young Eventing Horse champion - Ricker Ridge Riley who has gone on to now compete at 3 day events with considerable success at 3* level upwards • Donnerubin progeny are also champions in showing and show hunter. They show a natural ability to jump and are making their mark in most realms of equestrian sports. • Donnerubin’s progeny have such magic temperaments, this has meant that even freshly broken in Donnerubins are being ridden by young riders. • The most exciting part is that these Champion Donnerubin youngstock come from such a wide range of mares, TB, warmbloods, anglo arabs or clydesdale mares. He stamps his progeny that strongly.

“Everyone deserves a beautiful horse!”

Our motto is So come and join the Donnerubin family. Donnerubin is highly fertile which makes breeding a breeze.

Donnerubin

Donnerhall Donautraum (German Import) (Oldenburg)

(Oldenburg)

Waischja

(Hanoverian)

De Niro

(Hanoverian) Delilah (German Import) (Oldenburg)

Aronja

(Oldenburg)

Donnerwetter (Hanoverian) Ninette (Oldenburg) Lortzing (Hanoverian) Winzerin (Hanoverian) Donnerhall (Oldenburg) Alicante (Hanoverian) Rubinstein I (Westphalian) Amsel (Oldenburg)

We here at CDS congratulate all riders, breeders, and all the support crew who contribute to these beautiful Donnerubin babies’ successes. We are proud to be a part of that and your journey. Service Fee: $1800 + GST

+ Collection Costs Includes Live Foal Guarantee. AI nationwide. 10% discount for return mares or owners with multiple mares.

CDS - CHEVAUX DANSANTS STABLES Feilding, New Zealand. • jacindayounger@xtra.co.nz • Mobile (027) 220 4257 Check out Donnerubin’s Facebook page for the latest updates

“BRINGING THE BEST OF EUROPEAN BLOODLINES TO NEW ZEALAND” • The only New Zealand Studbook approved by the FEI to produce International Horse Passports • Online registration system • Studbooks for stallions and mares • Classification Tours using European assessors • DNA testing / WFFS testing • Awards for breeders / horses / riders

- FLINT CSNZ SCORED 84.75% IN THE RECENT APPROVAL TOUR

“CHOOSE A QUALITY STUDBOOK

(CANDYMAN GNZ x GIDGET CSNZ) BRED BY CHELEKEN EQUESTRIAN

THAT IS DEDICATED TO P R O M O T I N G U N I Q U E LY NEW ZEALAND BRED HORSES ON THE WORLD PLATFORM”

PROUD MEMBERS OF THE W O R L D B R E E D E R S F E D E R AT I O N FOR SPORT HORSES Keep an eye out for our new website – coming soon:

www.nzwarmbloods.com

C U R R E N T N Z WA L I C E N S E D S TA L L I O N S ANDRETTI APPLETON DHU A S T E K Q UAT E R M A S T E R BELLARIO BLOOMFIELD FURST LOVESONG B LO O M F I E L D VA L E N Z I A B R AVA D O E G O Z CAMPION KSNZ C A R P A C C I O B D V Z CASSIANO C H A C C O S I LV E R CONTENDRO CORNET’S AIR COROFINO II DAIMINOS DAV I D O F F D O N Q UAT T R O DONNERUBIN

DOUBLE WHOOPY ES DARCO OBELENSKY E S D I A M A N T B E S K A L I S TA E U R O S P O R T C E N TAV O S FF LISANDRO F U G ATO S W GLAMOURDALE G L AS GOW VAN ‘T MER EL S N EST VD L GOLDEN STRIKE GT JAKE HENNESSY HP FRESCO ICARUS GF J H T A N ATO M Y J H T C H E M I S T R Y KINNORDY GYM BELLO

KOMET VON C LINGH II LV M I D G E MOREWYNSTOWE CASCADE NEGRO NUMERO UNO XTREME REMI LION KING S A LT A I R E S O R C E R E R SIRROCO BLUE VDL SP BLUE EYED GHOST S TA R L I G H T R U B B L E S SWE DEMPSEY TRAUMPRINZ GF TRIPLE TREES PRINCE PERFECT V O L L R AT H G E R S H W I N V O L L R AT H L E S S I N G W O O D F E I L D PA R K L A C R O I X

- B A L M O R A L S E N S AT I O N -

THE NEW ZEALAND

(SENATOR VDL x ABERZANNE ABERLOU)

WA R M B L O O D A S S O C I AT I O N

congratulates the three

OWNED BY CLARKE JOHNSTONE BRED BY DAVID GOODIN

young stallions that passed their licensing during the 2 0 1 9 C l a s s i fi c a t i o n To u r : SWE DEMPSEY B L O O M F I E L D VA L E N Z I A DOUBLE WHOOPY H AV I N G A N E W Z E A L A N D WA R M B LO O D G I V E S YO U T H E FLEXIBILITY TO SELECT FROM A RANGE OF APPROVED S T U D B O O K S T O B R E E D " T H E B E S T F R O M T H E B E S T."

NEW ZEALAND WARMBLOOD ASSOCIATION INC E: Registrar@NZWarmbloods.com

(IMP GB)

BALLINEEN BLUE MOUNTAIN 16.2hh, 2006 Class 1 Purebred Irish Draught Stallion BBM - Multiple Champion Saddle Hunter. Supreme Paced & Mannered and Rider mount.

BBM Progeny - Dressage placings at South Island Champs, HOY, 4yr Future Stars and National U25 Champs

BBM - Champion Working Hunter and full wire field hunter.

Add some TEMPERAMENT, TRAINABILITY & SOUNDNESS into your Sport Horse breeding programme.

BBM - All Breeds Supreme Champion In-hand

Stud Fee $1500 incl GST

First collection & no foal free return. Fresh semen shipped nationwide.

BBM Progeny Champion South Island Saddle Hunter, Rising Star SH HOY, Runner-up Saddle Hunter HOY, All Breeds Supreme In-hand

Trevalda Irish Sporthorses P: 03 444 9309 M: 027 310 6858 E: g.crossan@xtra.co.nz

www.trevalda.co.nz

BIZZIE CANOODLING 148cm, 12-years-old, Tobiano - PGP Showjumper, 1* Eventer, Pony Club Mount $1035 incl LFG

GRASSYARDS FARM

Find us on Facebook and Instagram

or email: grassyards1@gmail.com

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE NATIONAL CAT B HIGH POINTS SERIERS 2019-20

Kenlock Indian Sky 16.2HH Homozygous Black & White Tobiano FEI Inter 1 Dressage Stallion - Stallion Licensed ACE

IMPORTED OLDENBUR G

Service Fee $1100 inc GST - LFG Frozen semen stored at Matamata Vets NZ

Kenlock Indian Sky

x Don Frederico (IFS)

x Furst Nymphenburg (IFS)

Kenlock Indian Sky

x Rotspon (IFS)

x Lanciano (IFS)

Kenlock Indian Sky

x Samba Hit III (IFS)

x Royal Classic (IFS)

enquiries@kenlockpark.com I Facebook KenlockParkStud

www.kenlockpark.com

CHACCO SILVER’S SIRE IS RANKED

NUMBER 1 JUMPING BREEDING STALLION IN THE WORLD!!

Matawhio Sport Horses proudly presents

Chacco Silver Chacco Blue x Cellestial x Sir Caletto 2008, 177cm, Oldenburg Jumping Stallion

AWARDED EXCELLENCE IN THE 2018 NZWB CLASSIFICATION TOUR AND ACHIEVED THE HIGHEST EVER AWARDED MARK IN THE NZWB STUDBOOK HISTORY

Chacco Silver is line bred to the influential Caletto 1 and carries some of the most critical blood in modern jumping. His sire Chacco Blue has been number 1 in the world for the past 3 years. His progeny continue to top European foal and young horse auctions.

Chacco Silver has been breeding in NZ for seven years now. His 1st progeny are rising 7 and exceptional. He strongly stamps them; generally improves the mare and provides very athletic, electric, scopy well moving horses. His oldest son Chio MS has generated much excitement

CHILLED SEMEN AVAILABLE AT YOUR MARE’S CONVENIENCE. SERVICE FEE $2000.00 + GST. LIVE FOAL GUARANTEE AND FIRST COLLECTION IS FREE.

in Australia. We expect to see some other super young progeny out and about this season. Ask anyone who’s bred a Chaacco Silver foal - they are phenomenal - he wasn’t sire of the 2017 NZWA Classification Tour Champion foal and Dam sire of the 2019 Champion foal for no reason!

Address: 56B Bryant Road, Karaka, Auckland 2580 - Phone: 021 154 2311 - Email: matawhio@xtra.co.nz

w w w. m a t a w h i o . c o . n z

STUD FEE $750.00 incl GST, LFG & First Collection Discou n apply ts for board ing mares

Eurosport Eurosport Centavos Centavos Hann Hann (pictured), (pictured), plus plus Eurosport EurosportDiamant Diamant BB and and Eurosport Eurosport Kalaska Kalaska

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REMI LION LION KING KING REMI HANOVERIAN (IMP) LICENSED NZWA STALLION. HANOVERIAN (IMP) LICENSED NZWA STALLION.

$1950 + GST $1950 + GST LFGLFG + Quality Youngstock sale. + Quality Youngstock for for sale.

A very elegant modern type with extraordinary A very elegant andand modern type with extraordinary movement, athleticism, scope a sweet, gentle movement, athleticism, scope andand a sweet, gentle personality. personality.

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Walt Disney I I Walt Disney Remi Waltzing Remi Waltzing Matilda Matilda Surabaya xx xx Surabaya

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MAGNUS SWB SIRE: MOSCHINNO - DAM: MADEIRA SWB Reg. Purebred Swedish Warmblood 2009 | 16.3hh Magnus is a bold, upstanding mahogany bay stallion. He has an impeccable presence and charisma with stunning conformation and once seen he will leave a lasting impression. Magnus has three powerful elastic gaits showing athleticism and rhythm, allowing him to cover the ground with ease. Magnus is also obliging in nature - no matter what we ask of him, and he always shows enthusiasm and willingness in all of his work. He consistently brings home the top show awards and has become quite a professional during his outings. His kind nature spills over to loving people, and he passes this characteristic on to his progeny. He crosses very well with Thoroughbreds, warmblood lines and crossbreeds, continuing to improve movement, conformation and nature.

CONTINUALLY PRODUCING OUTSTANDING TOP RESULTS IN HIS OUTINGS

SERVICE FEE $1200.00 + GST + COSTS LFG | AI Chilled only

Magnus at 3-years-old

Whatever the discipline, Magnus delivers presence and the wow factor. He will be a great asset to you and your breeding ambition. Magnus has passed all his characteristics onto his progeny with amazing results. He is an excellent prospect to produce a show jumper, dressage or show horse.

Video footage is on our website

CAITHNESS STUD

CAITHNESS STUD Ashburton, New Zealand Craig and Annabelle Read E:caithness.stud@gmail.com | 0276 836 461 www.caithnessstud.co.nz