Show Circuit Magazine - August / September 23

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WELCOME

FROM MY DESK

As winter tightens its grip and the equestrian world embraces the colder months, we are thrilled to present the latest issue of Show Circuit.

In this edition, our exclusive interviews with some of our community's most promising rising stars celebrate their passion, dedication, and talent. These up-and-coming riders are destined to shape the future of the equestrian community.

We are delighted to showcase these stories of young equestrians who have proven their mettle in various disciplines. Their journeys inspire us and remind us of why we fell in love with horses and this incredible sport in the first place.

The unwavering support of their families plays a vital role in their successes, and we bring you an in-depth look at the essential support systems behind these talented riders as we delve into their backgrounds, inspirations, and aspirations for the future. From show jumping to dressage, eventing to reining, and everything in between, these riders have shown remarkable skill and a commitment to excellence that sets them apart.

Our cover celebrates the remarkable story of super-groom Kerryn Edmans, who will shortly return to New Zealand to live. Her dedication and hard work culminated in three years as Head Groom with Tim and Jonelle Price, during which she won the coveted Cavalor FEI Best Groom award for 2022.

Do you love the competition scene? If you've ever wondered what it takes to put on a show and whether you have what it takes to coordinate a major event, or would simply like to help out at local level, our Ultimate Guide to Running an Event will give you an insight. The winter season presents riders with both challenges and opportunities, and we've included a special segment on utilising the off-season as we focus on preparing for the upcoming season.

And while our equine athletes deserve the very best we can provide, caring for our senior horses is also top of mind, especially when weather conditions are less than ideal! Check out our article.

Lastly, we want to express our gratitude to our readers and supporters. Your passion for all things equestrian motivates us to keep striving for excellence in every issue we produce. Your feedback and ideas are invaluable to us, and we encourage you to reach out and share your thoughts.

As always, we are committed to providing highquality content that captures the essence of the equestrian world and promotes the bond between horse and rider. We hope you enjoy reading this winter edition as much as we have enjoyed creating it for you.

We wish you all a wonderful and rewarding winter season with unforgettable equestrian moments! Until next time, happy riding.

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EDITOR

Pip Hume

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DESIGN

Sheryll Davies

CONTRIBUTORS

y Ashleigh Kendall

Belinda Pratt Photography

Caitlin Benzie Photography

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Denise Flay Photography

Jamie Halpin

Julia Murch Photography

Michelle Clarke Photography

Rebecca Greaves

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ABOUT US

Show Circuit magazine is published bi-monthly. The articles reflect the personal opinion of the author and not necessarily the view of Waiata Publishing Ltd. This publication cannot be reproduced in whole or in part in any way without the publisher’s express written permission. All contributions are submitted at the sender’s risk. Waiata Publishing Ltd accepts no responsibility for loss or damage.

© SHOWCIRCUIT Magazine 2023 All rights reserved.

COVER IMAGE:

Kerryn Edmans pictured with Tim & Jonelle Price

Image - Play Creative & Nicky Franks

Sheryll Davies - Publisher

A DEDICATED

decade

Ten years on from shifting her life to England, Kerryn Edmans is preparing to return to Kiwi soil. She’ll bring home the wealth of experience she has gained working with the world’s best, a prestigious award she earned for her efforts, and a partner excited to embrace the Kiwi lifestyle.

Unlike many international grooming stories, Kerryn was no stranger to Tim and Jonelle Price before she moved to the other side of the world to join them. In fact, they were consistent figures in her childhood, with Kerryn’s mum, Michelle, laying the foundations for Kerryn’s career from as early as her primary school days.

“My mum had a young horse called Tiara that she’d bred but didn’t love riding. She wanted someone young, keen and brave to send it to for schooling and selling. She found that rider five minutes down the road from us in Oxford (North Canterbury), and it just so happened to be a young Tim Price.”

Tim and Tiara (out of Michelle’s St James mare by the Trakhener stallion Falkensee) found some success in show jumping, performing consistently in six and seven-year-old age group classes. As a result, Kerryn soon found herself traipsing around the country, frequenting shows with Tim and Jonelle. The lifestyle was a thrill for young Kerryn. “I remember as early as year three, Mum would pick me up early from school, and we’d jump in the truck with Tim to travel to shows as far away as the North Island, where we’d meet up with Jonelle. Naturally, I thought getting out of school and

spending a whole weekend hanging out with adults was just great fun!”

Tiara would later sell to Lucy Olphert, who competed her to Lady Rider level. However, by the time she sold, Michelle had become a good friend and valuable team member for Tim. “Tim really appreciated Mum’s casual grooming at shows and soon asked her to help him at home as well. Mum essentially found herself a job wrangling a disorganised 20-year-old Tim Price.”

Kerryn became expert at rolling bandages and hanging out on the truck ramp. “When we were at shows, Jonelle would regularly joke, ‘ One day Kerryn, you’ll come over to England and work for us’.” As it turns out, Kerryn called their bluff after finishing school in 2012 and put a phone call through to Jonelle. “I asked her if the offer still stood, and she said yes. I was on a plane as soon as my visa came through.”

Kerryn hit the ground running in the UK in 2013 and immediately put her ‘can do’ attitude to work. “When I started, there were 20-30 horses in the yard and a group of three to four of us grooms. It was quite chaotic; no one really knew what we were doing, but we all just got on with it and made it happen somehow.”

WORDS - Nicola Franks IMAGES - Play Creative

I’VE BEEN BLESSED TO BE IN THE BEST YARD IN THE WORLD WITH TWO OF THE BEST RIDERS AND THE MOST AMAZING HORSES, AND TO DOWNGRADE FROM THAT ISN’T POSSIBLE.

Over the next three years, the Prices’ operation expanded and progressed. More grooms and team members joined, and the quality and calibre of horses on the team grew, resulting in a lot of learning and growth for Kerryn. In 2014 Lucy Miles was employed as Head Girl, and Kerryn was given the role title of 2IC (Secondin-Charge).

“Lucy was incredible - she basically taught me everything I know and, over the years, became my righthand lady and confidant.”

In 2016, after three years with Team Price, Kerryn felt she’d achieved what she wanted and was ready to chase new horizons. “I’d ticked off all the big shows you aim for when you become a groom. I didn’t know what I wanted to do next but just felt like I was ready for something different.”

She returned to New Zealand, where she did a stint working for fellow Kiwi eventer Samantha Lissington who was then based in Hamilton before dabbling in some post earthquakes road works in Kaikoura.

Above - The whiteboard is vital when you manage a team of thirty horses. Top right-hand page - Stable star FALCO is a favourite. At Pau 2021, Kerryn’s first 5* event as the main groom, Tim and FALCO took the win. Right - Tim and Jonelle have been incredible, and Kerryn embraced the role as Head Girl. Pictured here with the talented VITALI, a 13-yearold German-bred Holstein gelding.

It wasn’t long, however, before Kerryn found her next role, which landed her back in the familiar scene of England, working as a vet technician for Christiana Ober, the New Zealand team vet.

Kerryn put her horsemanship skills to work in a new context, gaining a vast insight into horse management and health. “I assisted Christiana with anything and everything, from setting up equipment to ordering drugs; anything she needed, I’d do. I think just doing that job day in and day out, I became more sensitive to lameness and knowing the ins and outs of some of the finer veterinary practices.”

Kerryn enrolled in a Sports Massage Therapy course and had planned to study part-time alongside working with Christiana. But this was early 2020, and Covid put a hold on those plans as the course was delayed.

“I was in limbo for a while there.”

It just so happened that Tim and Jonelle were in limbo themselves, as one of their grooms, Jess Wilson, was leaving to head to vet school. “Jonelle got in touch and said, ‘You look like you’ve got another year in you.’ She was right; three years later, I’m still here!”

Kerryn joined Team Price for the second time around, this time taking the role of Head Girl. This position has seen her manage a team of eight to nine staff members and care for the needs of roughly 30 horses six days per week for the past three years.

I’VE ALWAYS SAID THAT IF IT’S NOT TIM AND JONELLE I’M WORKING FOR, I WON’T BE GROOMING.

At the end of the 2023 season, Kerryn and her partner of four years, Rob, are shifting to New Zealand. Rob is a diesel mechanic for heavy machinery and has a job lined up in Timaru, where they’ll base themselves once home. While Kerryn has loved her time in the grooming world, she’s excited about the change of scenery.

“At the end of the day, I’m not the rider, so it’s not really my career. I was always adamant about not wanting to be a groom for too long. Having a partner outside of work means there’s more to life, and it’s time to go and have a bit more freedom rather than being dictated by the eventing season.

While Kerryn isn’t entirely sure what she will do with her newfound freedom in this next phase of life, she is confident it will look different. “I’ve been blessed to be in the best yard in the world with two of the best riders and the most amazing horses, and to downgrade from that isn’t possible. I’ve always said that if it’s not Tim and Jonelle I’m working for, I won’t be grooming.”

With plenty of change on the horizon, Kerryn and Rob are excited about being close to family and starting a new chapter in their lives. “We’re honestly mainly just excited to have the Kiwi lifestyle and experience everything that’s quintessentially Kiwi. Rob is English but already thinks he’s a Kiwi - he runs around in stubbies and merino socks!”

Kerryn has undoubtedly made her mark in the Eventing world over the past ten years, and her hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. In 2022 Kerryn won the FEI Cavalor Best Groom award for her efforts. This prestigious award celebrates and rewards truly outstanding grooms, and the judging panel recognised Kerryn as the best of the best, stating, “Her attention to detail, her knowledge and feel for the horses she cares for, and her ability to be a team player make her a great ambassador for eventing.”

Kerryn was thrilled with the result. “Grooming isn’t easy, so to be recognised for the work I’ve put in was just amazing. As part of the award, I also won a trip to Cape Town, which I was stoked about!”

“It’s really neat that awards like this help to recognise the amazing work that so many grooms do. I’ve been so lucky to be a part of an incredible network of legendary grooms who all support one another. They’ve become like my own little team and community; we’re all so close. It’s definitely made it hard to leave!”

Above - Kerryn with VITALI, who is owned by Joe and Alex Giannamore. Left - Kerryn watching over VISCOUNT VIKTOR during a training session. Owned by Barbara Cooper, Glynn Norcutt and Ginny Rusher. Some momentoes from the Tokyo Olympics will be treasured forever.

GROOMING ISN’T EASY, SO TO BE RECOGNISED FOR THE WORK I’VE PUT IN WAS JUST AMAZING.

AS PART OF THE AWARD, I ALSO WON A TRIP TO CAPE TOWN, WHICH I WAS STOKED ABOUT!

With so many seasons under her belt, it’s easy to understand that Kerryn has difficulty identifying her career highlight events; however, she does have a few that were particularly memorable. The World Equestrian Games in 2022, where Team Price returned home with the team bronze, and Tim and Falco took out the individual bronze, was a clear highlight. Pau 2021 was also special for Kerryn as it was her first 5* event where she was the main groom, and Tim and Falco picked up the 5* win.

“Plus, obviously, the Olympics in Tokyo in 2020 was pretty amazing too.”

Kerryn reflects that the past decade has been an influential phase of her life for many reasons. “Looking back now, I realise it was pretty ballsy to move to the other side of the world when I was so young. The past ten years have taught me to stand on my own two feet, and I’ve grown up a lot as a person in my time here.”

One of the biggest learnings Kerryn has gained is an understanding of team dynamics and how to manage horses and people in high-pressure environments. “I think it’s important to understand your riders so you can tell what they need when they’re in their performance zones. When you’ve been working for them for a while, it becomes second nature to know their likes and dislikes in those situations, and you can take the pressure off them by taking care of things.”

Having cared for a decent number of the world’s top eventing horses in her time, Kerryn knows a thing or two about what it takes to keep them in the best shape. “Good general horsemanship is important. There’s no handbook to looking after a horse at any level, so you just have to be attentive and adaptable to each horse’s needs and quirks.”

Kerryn is incredibly grateful to those who have been part of her journey thus far. “Tim and Jonelle for giving me an opportunity as a grasshopper and then letting me stick around a bit longer than planned. I’ve literally grown up in Tim and Jonelle’s bubble of people and the circle of people around them, which has been amazing.”

While Kerryn knows she’s done her mum proud by continuing her legacy, she also knows her mum will be excited to have her daughter home again. “I don’t think Mum thought it’d take me ten years to tell her I’m coming home again!”.

There’s no doubt that the UK eventing scene will miss Kerryn’s smiling face and classic Kiwi jokes, but we can’t wait to see what Kerryn tackles next. n

The yard and its special horses (especially FALCO) will always have a place in Kerryn’s heart, but with the end of the season will come the time to move back to New Zealand.

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THERE ARE NO

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The juggle of becoming a mum, running a cyclone-affected farm, and chasing her dream of getting to 5* level and representing New Zealand at a senior championship is a daily challenge for hard-working eventer Christen Lane, but one she relishes.

The drive to succeed at the top level on the global eventing stage has not left Christen Lane, but the pathway to get there has altered slightly.

Since becoming a mum to Tabitha, now nine months old, life has changed for this humble eventer, but her passion for the sport has not wavered.

Christen and her husband Tom own Te Konini, a 300-hectare sheep and beef farm on the banks of the Tutaekuri River at Waiwhare, Hawke’s Bay, and they have big plans for the property. The couple left Auckland five years ago in search of more land and to realise Tom’s dream of going farming. What Christen didn’t expect was to discover her own love of farming, a new chapter in her career, and a job that works well alongside her life with horses and as a mum.

“We had 20 acres in Auckland, and it was about wanting more land. Tom has always wanted to go farming, and we got to the point where we were looking anywhere around the country. I didn’t want to move back to the South Island because it’s hard to compete from there.”

They spotted Te Konini on Trade Me and decided to have a nice weekend away in Hawke’s Bay and

go for a look. They instantly fell in love with the farm. “We looked once, and I was convinced. It was a bit of a random move, we don’t have family here, but it was a wish to live a more rural lifestyle and get into farming.”

On their wish list was to live near water and somewhere picturesque, and the property ticked all the boxes - a veritable horse lover’s paradise. Christen says there is a river bordering the farm; it’s peaceful and beautiful, with an outlook over the hills and a nice balance of flat land for stock.

“It was Tom’s goal to be a farmer; it wasn’t something I’d thought about. It sounds weird, but I love the cows. Like horses, they all have their individual personalities. At first, it was a struggle, as Tom was still commuting to Auckland each week. Even driving the tractor and feeding out was a new challenge for me. I feel very fortunate to be able to get into a new career later in life. It’s allowed me to not sit on horses all day and have schoolers and sell horses as a business. I enjoy farming; it’s challenging but incredibly rewarding.”

The property has a rich history, and the wee cottage the family lives in is located on the old wagon trail

I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE TO BE ABLE TO GET INTO A NEW CAREER LATER IN LIFE. IT'S ALLOWED ME TO NOT SIT ON HORSES ALL DAY AND HAVE SCHOOLERS AND SELL HORSES AS A BUSINESS. I ENJOY FARMING; IT'S CHALLENGING BUT INCREDIBLY REWARDING.

Christen and her husband, Tom, with their daughter, Tabitha.

THERE’S A PART OF THE FARM I USED FOR FITNESS WORKTHE AMAZING OLD WAGON TRAIL - WE CAN’T GET IN THERE NOW, AND WE PROBABLY NEVER WILL. IT WAS ONE OF THE THINGS I LOVED MOST ABOUT THE FARM, AND TO THINK I WILL NEVER RIDE OVER IT AGAIN IS HEARTBREAKING.

which connected Taihape to Napier and runs through the farm. “There was a pub, which burned down in the 1890s, and the remnants were used to build our cottage. We keep finding big old horseshoes from the blacksmith’s forge and bottles from the pub.”

With Tom’s busy day job as General Counsel and Commercial Director for Rockit Global regularly taking him around the country and overseas, much of the day-to-day running of the farm falls to Christen, and she has learned plenty of new skills – including graduating from driving tractors to bulldozers.

In the spirit of diversification, the couple has previously run a successful Air BnB from the shearers’ quarters and are preparing to open new accommodation in a converted schoolhouse in an old apricot orchard beside the river. Unfortunately, Cyclone Gabrielle has slightly delayed their plans for moving the schoolhouse to its final location.

As well, visitors will be able to bring their horses and train with Christen and invited trainers, utilising the Tich Massey-designed crosscountry course and 60x70m all-weather arena.

Like so many in Hawke’s Bay, Cyclone Gabrielle hit them hard, and it was a hard pill to swallow seeing roughly 8km of new fences and 4km of new track development literally washed away or buried in slips. But Christen knows they are fortunate compared to many further down the valley, some who lost everything.

“There’s a part of the farm I used for fitness work - the amazing old wagon trail - we can’t get in there now, and we probably never will. It was one of the things I loved most about the farm, and to think I will never ride over it again is heartbreaking.”

The Lanes were without water for seven weeks and still have to turn the pump on manually each day (a half-hour round trip). “It was devastating for people further down the valley, and you do feel guilty when friends had

Top left - It is a long recovery after Cyclone Gabrielle on the farm.

The very cute BELLHAVEN CUMBRIA.

to evacuate their homes and horses. But it has still been a big hit for us.”

A ray of sunshine has been the newest addition to the Lane family, Tabitha, who arrived rather early, in the midst of lambing and calving last year. In fact, Tom was in the middle of pulling a calf when he got the call that he needed to get to the hospital for Tab’s (five weeks early) arrival.

With support from her family, Christen wasted little time getting back in the saddle. Her parents flew from Dunedin to help, and a house is now being built on the farm for them to live in. Christen’s mother-in-law Chris was also instrumental in getting her back to competing, travelling to every competition and squad training to look after Tabitha while Christen rode.

Chris had also purchased an exciting new upper-level horse for Christen, Bellhaven Cumbria, who she hopes can take her all the way. So, Christen was desperate to get back to riding her

Christen has high hopes for BELLHAVEN CUMBRIA, who is showing the potential to go to the top.

Right - While life is super busy, Tabitha is a ray of sunshine, and Christen knows how lucky she is to have such an easy baby.

exciting new prospect.

“Tabitha was only two months old when I went to my first competition. In a way, I’m glad I started riding again before I knew how hard it would be with a baby! It’s a huge undertaking having a baby and doing anything, let alone riding. I have a newfound respect for mothers – I didn’t realise what I was getting into,” she laughs.

Luckily, Tabitha has been a dream truck baby. She loves driving around in the truck and even sleeps better in the truck than at home, Christen says.

TABITHA WAS ONLY TWO MONTHS OLD WHEN I WENT TO MY FIRST COMPETITION. IN A WAY, I'M GLAD I STARTED RIDING AGAIN BEFORE I KNEW HOW HARD IT WOULD BE WITH A BABY!

Ironically, Christen grew up in the city, not with horses and certainly not with farming.

Her introduction to horses came when her mum was at a work conference, and the kids were taken to a local riding school as entertainment. As they say, the rest is history.

“I grew up in our golden age of eventing, watching the likes of Mark Todd, Blyth Tait, and Sally Clark. I used to cut out newspaper clippings, and that’s how I discovered the sport.”

Eventually, Christen was allowed lessons, and her first pony came from the riding school. Through primary and high school, she was lucky to have friends whose families had farms and horses, notably the Johnstone family. “I kept my ponies at the Johnstone’s farm, and Clarke and I rode together a lot. Jean (Clarke’s mum) would take me to horse shows, and I sort of followed them around. If it wasn’t for the Johnstones, I would never have known about all the competitions and opportunities there were.”

Surprisingly, Christen volunteers that she wasn’t a brave kid, and her first pony wasn’t overly fond of jumping. She completed a kindy one-day event on her second pony and was hooked on eventing.

“I love that you have to be good at three different disciplines. The horse doesn’t have to be a particular superstar at any one thing, but it’s such a challenge to get all three things right. And the love of cross-country - it gives you a real buzz; there’s nothing quite like it.”

One instructor who had a massive influence in Christen’s younger years was Barbara Chalmers. It was Barbara who found Alley Cat, the mare who would take her to Advanced and give her some lovely foals – like Thunder Cat.

“I went from Novice to Advanced pretty quickly. I was 18 when I did my first Advanced. She looked like a camel and wasn’t much on the flat. Still, Barbara said, ‘this horse will give you mileage,’ and she surpassed all expectations, as well as giving me the beautiful foals I’m still riding today.”

Thunder Cat, by Littorio, was her first foal and proved his reliability by taking out the Land Rover Super League Series for the 22/23 season, despite sitting out spring while Christen was

Left

Top left image - Christen and LEVERET in the 2* at Matamata Horse Trial. Image: Julia Murch Photography.

- The water table is still so high that the surface water sits for days every time it rains.

Top right - Christen with two superstars, THUNDERCAT and BELLHAVEN CUMBRIA.

Bottom right - Christen riding THUNDERCAT in the Eventing Northland event at Barge Showgrounds Events Centre. Image - Julia Murch Photography

postpartum. “He’s just a consistent horse that tries his heart out.”

The pair travelled to Melbourne as part of the New Zealand Senior team for Oceania last June (Christen was five months pregnant) and were set to line up at the Adelaide 5* in April before fate intervened.

“I desperately want to do a 5* on him, but I’m just weighing up my options. I was bitterly disappointed to miss it, but that’s life, and that’s horses. He doesn’t know he’s not a 5* horse; he’s happy.”

Now rising 16, Christen is unsure what the future holds for her beloved Thunder Cat. While disappointed that he hasn’t had his shot at a 5*, the way things transpired with COVID and a cyclone hammering the farm in February, Christen is conscious he may have missed the boat. She feels he has nothing left to prove in New Zealand, and Adelaide 5* next year feels a long way off.

Christen freely admits having Tabitha and the responsibility of the farm, too, meant she had to take stock of her priorities. More than ever, the desire to ride at the top level and go 5* burns, but something had to give.

“I have made the tough decision to stop breeding and stop riding breakers. I’m not as brave as I used to be in that respect, and my plan now is to focus on just a couple of upper-level and top-quality young horses.

“At the moment, I’m very focused on spending time with Tabitha. Tab is getting to an age she’s really fun to

interact with and is quite a little character. I usually go out each day and work some horses, the steers are on breaks, and we’re about to start lambing. Most of my time is spent on the farm, with family, and around animals. It’s so peaceful here, and I’m probably not the most social person in the world. I prefer being around animals!”

With all this in mind, most of the horses in her paddocks are potentially up for grabs. “I have quite a few

to compete, and I can’t do it all. At the moment, if someone comes along and wants one, that’s fine; I’m open to that. Otherwise, you end up spreading yourself too thin. I just want to do the job well and continue to love doing it. At the end of the day, it’s got to be fun.”

Currently, she has Thoroughbred Leveret, who is stepping up to 3* this season, and a lovely home-bred gelding, Billy, out of Christen’s well-performed mare Tandarra Sweet As, who she represented New Zealand on. Billy will go out at 1* this coming season, having been lightly competed by Christen’s groom last season.

There is also Fleur, a rising five-year-old home-bred by Contenta, who is intended as Tom’s comeback horse, although Christen says she’d happily steal the ride.

One horse who definitely won’t be leaving is 10-yearold Bellhaven Cumbria, by Bellhaven Colorado, out of Bellhaven Thumbelina. Christen has plans to take the mare to the UK for a stint in the next few years.

“Cumbria is owned by Chris Perkins, my mother-in-law, and I’m lucky to have the opportunity to have such a fantastic horse. It’s something Chris has wanted to help me with for a long time, and it’s very exciting.”

When Christen first sat on the mare, they just clicked. “I feel really at home on her and immediately felt like I’d known her for a long time. In a nutshell, if I could think of a horse I would like to ride that would suit me, it’s her. We were looking for a special horse and buying a horse is a personal thing. I just went, ‘Wow, I love this horse’. I love her attitude and the way she goes.”

Christen’s ultimate goal is to ride at 5* and to represent New Zealand on the mare overseas. “It would be amazing, if we were up for it, to represent New Zealand at, say, a World Equestrian Games; that’s the dream.”

The only member of the High Performance Potential Squad currently based on our shores, she would love to see greater competitor numbers at the higher levels here.

“Monica (Spencer) and Matthew (Grayling) are right up there with the high international standard, but our numbers are dwindling. It was a lot of fun when there were more of us, with the added competition element. I’m keen to go overseas and experience a bigger field and competition. I was looking forward to Australia coming to HOY for Oceania, but that got canned thanks to the cyclone, too.”

Fortunately, Christen says the standard of courses here in New Zealand is right up there. “We have fabulous designers, so we’re jumping around really good tracks, and I think that’s important. The diversity of competition might not be there, but the challenge is. Hopefully, we’ll see some of the younger riders stepping up the levels and having more horses at the higher levels.”

Christen is grateful to be sponsored by McMillan Equine, Spurs of Counties, The Grooms Collection, and Equine America. n

I HAVE MADE THE TOUGH DECISION TO STOP BREEDING AND STOP RIDING BREAKERS. I’M NOT AS BRAVE AS I USED TO BE IN THAT RESPECT, AND MY PLAN NOW IS TO FOCUS ON JUST A COUPLE OF UPPER-LEVEL AND TOPQUALITY YOUNG HORSES. .

Christen and THUNDERCAT showing his talent on 4* cross-country during the New Zealand Three Day Event Championships, Taupo 2022.

Harness the power of precision and harmony. trial saddles available nz wide www.arionefv.co.nz

PAINTING the dream

Not everyone can drive a Ferrari, and not every rider aspires to get to the Olympics. That’s something Cambridge rider, coach, mum, and artist Chrissy Taylor can relate to, and with her lovely young stallion, she hopes to breed the next generation of Toyotas for the amateur market.

Splashy, messy, and outside the lines – Chrissy Taylor’s art mirrors how she lives her life, and she likes it like that.

There’s a lot going on at her 10-acre property near Cambridge, with grazers, lessons, her own jumping horses, and an on-site art studio where she also gives evening classes. The property includes stables and an arena, with three stables converted into an art studio. “I like to keep it close to home!”

Between the horses and her art, Chrissy is occupied full-time. “I do art when it’s rainy and miserable or in the evenings and the horses during the day, so I rotate between the two.”

She has gone through phases of breeding and re-training Thoroughbreds off the track, but with the market slowing, Chrissy’s focus now is her own team. She has a lovely schoolmaster, FIS Outrageous (Guy), and a rising five-year-old stallion

Galaxy Pounamu (PJ), the last colt by Galaxy Pourewa, out of a Lone Arrow mare.

WORDS - Rebecca Greaves

IMAGES - Christine Cornege Photography

PJ has recently returned from being broken in by Jeremy Whale and is starting his ridden career under saddle with Chrissy, who plans to stand him at stud this season.

“Hopefully, he will produce lots of beautiful babies. He’s a hack, and I’m hoping to breed that Amateur level horse. I think there’s a hole in the market for that nice, quiet, easy horse – I’m talking about that Toyota market - not everyone wants to tackle a Ferrari type every ride! There’s something to be said for hopping in your beautifully capable Toyota with a reliable body and a fabulous work ethic, one that does a bit of everything and gets the job done. There are a

Above - Schoolmaster, FIS OUTRAGEOUS was just the ticket for Chrissy’s confidence, and she is thrilled with him.

captionscaptions

Left - Chrissy is excited about her young stallion, GALAXY POUNAMU, who has just returned from being broken in.

lot of Ferraris out there, but not everyone can drive a Ferrari - or wants to.”

Chrissy puts herself in that category too. “Most of us, the vast majority, just enjoy our horses and being out there. Doing the lower-level stuff is our Olympics.”

After a break from jumping when she had her daughter Hayley (now 13), Chrissy decided to take up the sport again in 2018, only to discover that she was terrified of a crossbar. She had to start right from the beginning and rebuild her confidence.

“I taught myself to jump again, one crossbar at a time. I understand the anxiety that can come with getting back into it

and have a unique perspective. I do a lot of confidence-building coaching, helping other people overcome those same hurdles.

I guess I do a lot of not a lot. I dabble in lots of things,” she laughs. Everyone knows horses are hard to make a business out of, full stop. Chrissy has a few grazers, which go towards paying for the upkeep and upgrading of facilities; the lessons help pay for the feed, and so on. It’s all about making it viable to fund her horses and property.

Chrissy was born in Birkenhead in England, and her family immigrated to New Zealand when she was 11.

The family had horses in the UK, and she recalls it being vastly different there, where their horses were kept in full-time livery and stabled year-round.

“It’s a different equestrian industry over there. We learned to muck out boxes at the age of five, and I remember breaking the ice off the water buckets every day in the winter, even though they were inside. It was cold; that’s what I remember the most!”

When they moved to New Zealand, she and her twin sister Suzy shared a pony and attended Pony Club. Chrissy was always keen on jumping and, as a teen, evented. But show jumping was her passion.

“I’m interested in all aspects of it and would like to get into course design, too.”

At the age of 18, she and Suzy bought their pet supplies business and, at the same time, purchased a handful of Warmbloods from Fred Cornege, predominantly with show jumping bloodlines, the likes of Voltaire II. They began a breeding programme.

Chrissy and FIS OUTRAGEOUS competing at Takapoto Show Jumping in the 1.15m class.

I HAVE ALWAYS FOUND EVERYONE IN SHOW JUMPING LOVELY AND WELCOMING. IF YOU ASK FOR HELP, IT’S ALWAYS THERE. IT CAN LOOK CLIQUEY OR ELITIST FROM THE OUTSIDE, BUT IT’S NOT.

“Even when I wasn’t competing in my 20s, we were breeding show jumpers and carried that trend through. When the breeding market fell apart, we diversified into the training side.

Then I got pregnant. I had Hayley right in the middle of the recession, and I was left with eight Warmbloods. I ticked along, but with a baby, I couldn’t commit, and it all became too much. I’ve never not had horses, and until Hayley was five, I focused on my young horses, breaking in and schooling, rather than the competition side.”

Complementing the horses is Chrissy’s art business, which involves painting and commission work, and teaching after-school lessons two evenings a week to primary and high school students.

She believes art should be experimental and focuses on letting her students make their own rules rather than setting them.

“There’s no such thing as bad art. In school, I didn’t do well in art class because I didn’t like following set instructions. I don’t think you should pass or fail art - it should be what you want it to be. I encourage my students to experiment – there’s no wrong way to do it.”

Chrissy’s art style is one she developed herself using a fluid acrylic designed for airbrushing. She liked the way it went on with a paintbrush and taught herself to paint with it.

“From the day I decided to be an artist, I’ve somehow managed to make money from it. I guess I’m lucky my style works in the market,” she says humbly. “I didn’t study art in college or go to night classes; I just sat down with a brush one day and thought, how hard can it be?

“My brain is pretty chaotic. My art is quite chaotic, splashy, messy, and out of the lines, and that’s kind of how I live,” she laughs.

After 15 years in the retail pet supplies business, Chrissy wants to avoid being tied to set opening hours. Instead, she holds open days, or the studio is open by appointment.

“When I first started, I used to do a lot of markets to get my name out there. I had a riding accident and required abdominal surgery; they said after that I couldn’t lift more than 10kg, ever. The stuff for the markets weighs a lot, and I gave them up. The way I run the studio works well for me.”

In 2018, Chrissy decided she wanted to get back into competitive jumping, and Fino the Corofino was the horse she purchased for the job.

Above - The dogs Darcy and Ludo also play a massive part in Chrissy’s life. Below - Chrissy says her art is quite chaotic, splashy, messy, and out of the lines.

“He was green, and I was green. We went to a lesson with Jeff McVean, and he set the first jump. I kept saying ‘lower’ until we ended up with a crossbar. I had Fino for three years, and he took me from that crossbar up to 1.10m. He was a neat horse. He took me from zero back to competitive jumping and is the horse I credit with getting my confidence back.”

Chrissy gave Fino to Lucy Olphert to campaign at a few shows, and she jumped him to 1.25m.

Fino was little but had a heart of gold. “He would jump anything. He was a small, plain, brown horse, but I loved him.”

In 2022 Chrissy had the opportunity to travel to France and train there on one of Lucy’s trips, an adventure she relished.

“I enjoyed the adventure of riding horses I had never met before. We also did some course design work, which further fuelled my interest in that side. It was interesting to see the difference in how they train and do their horses compared to here. It was a challenge but in a good way.”

Her current schoolmaster, Guy (by Lone Arrow), is rising 18, and Chrissy describes him as a big ginger goof who thinks he’s a toddler. She purchased him in June 2022 as an experienced horse who had jumped around Juniors with previous owners and would give her confidence in the ring.

Last season got off to a slow start after Chrissy broke her leg (courtesy of her dog) but ended on a high with a third placing in the 1.15m at Takapoto in February.

“That day, it all came together. I came out of the ring in tears; it was amazing, and I was so happy with him.

When you have found the one, you know! Chrissy and FIS OUTRAGEOUS.

I plan to be in the Amateurs this season and crack on. “

Chrissy trains with Lisa Coupe and credits both her and Lucy (Olphert) with helping her achieve her goals, saying both have gone above and beyond what would be expected from a coach. “Both are so willing to help the little guy even though they have achieved so much in the sport,” she says.

“I have always found everyone in show jumping lovely and welcoming. If you ask for help, it’s always there. It can look cliquey or elitist from the outside, but it’s not. I think you get out what you put in. If you are nice to people and treat them with respect, you get it back in kind.”

As well as Guy and PJ, Chrissy has a rising two-year-old, Pumpkin, who she bred in conjunction with Lucy Olphert, out of Lucy’s World Cup mare Eve. “We bred two, and I’ve just sold the second foal outright to Lucy. She wanted to keep him entire, and practically, I can’t have two stallions here on 10 acres. He’s absolutely lovely and will suit Lucy down to the ground. He will go down to her new property in Queenstown in the spring.”

Chrissy’s own goals involve standing PJ at stud and delving into the world of course design.

“I think I will always show jump because I enjoy it. Amateurs are pretty much the pinnacle Olympics for me. I enjoy training and coaching, producing horses, and going to Lisa rather than competing. Having Guy to keep my eye in is great when I’m producing young ones, as he keeps me jumping bigger fences.

“Long term, I think I will step away from competing and into the course design and stewarding side of the sport. I’ve had a lot of injuries in my life – I don’t bounce anymore! I probably won’t buy another up-and-going horse after Guy; he will be it for me. I’ll see where the road takes me.”

Chrissy is grateful to be sponsored by Aspin & Co and Harvest Grains. n

Above and below - It is always reassuring when one of your coaches (Lisa Coupe) is willing to come over and have a moment with you.

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THE TIES that

BIND

When Karolina Dyszy was just three years old, she had a chance encounter with a pony, sparking a lifelong obsession with horses. Born and raised in Poland, she grew up in a prolific car racing family. Her father is a three-time Polish Champion and well-known auto journalist, and her mother was also high profile, winning races in her own right.

Drawn to animals from a very young age, Karolina found solace in every moment she spent with them. “I was expected to work hard for everything and was always taught nothing is given in life,” she reflects. “My parents implemented the general principles to train successfully for any chosen discipline.”

There were no kids’ ponies back in Poland, so Karolina found herself learning to ride on big horses. “As an eight-year-old, I was cleaning stables and feeding out once a week for rides. My parents could afford to pay for it, but I was really proud to

be able to do it for myself,” she explains. Her parents never fully understood the sport, but they did purchase Karolina’s first horse. After that, the rest was on her. “I was 14 years old, and I had a three-year-old black stallion as a first horse. You can guess my parents really didn’t have a clue,” she laughs. “I broke him in even though I had no idea what I was doing. I read every book I could find and watched trainers all day to learn everything I could.” Entirely dedicated to her craft, she would pick up any work she could get at the stables to afford lessons.

WORDS - Ashleigh Kendall IMAGES - Michelle Clarke Photography

In Poland, you are not allowed to compete in show jumping until you have achieved a certain level of dressage. Karolina wanted nothing more than to jump, so she set about working her way up. “It has paid off now, of course, because I can put together some nice movements for good scores in dressage, which I managed to do with SWE Dempsey before he went off on his new adventure to the North Island,” she says.

Now, she rides some youngsters for Amberley House and credits her dressage foundation for forming good basics with the young horses. “I have always been pretty lucky. I have always somehow been spotted by great, top trainers and riders who have given me opportunities, grooming for them or riding their young horses,” she explains. When she was around 17 years old, she was offered a job at a stud called Cavallo Szczecin, which had imported some of the first German stallions in the country.

“We put enormous amounts of work into the horses and pushed ourselves; we were really dedicated,” she reflects. “The owner, Zenon Farysey, always had our back and gave us the support we needed to thrive. He gave us a great education and tried to set us up well for life.” While there, Karolina was immediately fascinated by the first Polish equine body-workers and could see herself working in that area in the future.

Now she treats sport and racehorses across the South Island plus a few teams in the North Island. “It is huge for me to be able to look after the horses I ride daily and address issues before they evolve,” she says. “Having a deep understanding of bio-mechanics and physiology helps me train

I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN PRETTY LUCKY. I HAVE ALWAYS SOMEHOW BEEN SPOTTED BY GREAT, TOP TRAINERS AND RIDERS WHO HAVE GIVEN ME OPPORTUNITIES, GROOMING FOR THEM OR RIDING THEIR YOUNG HORSES.

Left-hand page - CORNET’S AIR is quite something to behold. Below - With her dog Tris (whose name means ‘the one who brings happiness’ in Latin) and her cat, Odin.

them correctly. It is great to be able to work on the racehorses, too; I think it is so important that I can help them and prevent injuries. It is something I wish every racehorse could have.” Her work also helps her fund and sustain her breeding project, which came about with an ‘accidental’ trip to New Zealand around the same time the stallion Cornet’s Air (Cornet Obolensky x Dorado x Contender x Landed x Ramiro) arrived in the country. She soon offered to stand for him and manage his career in New Zealand. “I got involved in the project to breed a great, ‘new’ type of eventer with Cornet’s Air and New Zealand Thoroughbreds,” she explains. “I now have quite a large number of youngsters that I will soon be starting to produce under saddle. I gained all the knowledge about breeding, AI and scanning in Germany working for Gerd Kust. The ability to collect the semen, process it to a worldclass standard, assess the right moment to use it, then foal down the mare, handle the foal and start it under saddle or produce it further gives me some advantages over many breeders.”

Bred by Stamm 8888 in Germany, Cornet’s Air is an exceptional stallion. He boasts world-class bloodlines, descending from generations of mares with fantastic temperaments. Karolina worked with his family of mares back in Germany, so she can vouch for them on an intimate level. “Gerd’s main goal has always been to breed exceptional horses everyone can ride and handle, and we already know that is exactly what Cornet’s Air passes on to his foals,” she muses.

“I am forever grateful to Becky Harkerss, who now rides Cornet’s Air,” Karolina says. “She has been competing with him since last season, and they are just the perfect match for each other. They have developed a special bond; I am excited to see them compete more this coming season.” It isn’t hard to see the love Karolina has for the young stallion, and she describes him simply as being exceptional. “When you ride him, you can feel the humongous power underneath. He has a massive, rhythmic stride and natural uphill movement; he is also unbelievably trainable and willing. He has perfect conformation, temperament, power, technique and attitude, which he passes on to his progeny.”

Above - CORNET’S AIR is an exceptional stallion. He boasts world-class.

Lower left - Karolina is forever grateful to Becky Harkerss, who competes Cornet’s Air - she thinks they are the perfect match. Seen here competing at the Canterbury Show Jumping Champs in the 1.10m.

GERD’S MAIN GOAL HAS ALWAYS BEEN TO BREED EXCEPTIONAL HORSES WHO EVERYONE CAN RIDE AND HANDLE, AND WE ALREADY KNOW THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT CORNET’S AIR PASSES ON TO HIS FOALS.

Above - CORNET’S AIR is an exceptional stallion. He boasts world-class bloodlines, descending from generations of mares with fantastic temperaments.

Karolina considers herself very fortunate to have the support of Angie Mason from Amberley House, where the setting is stunning. She loves every minute of being there.

Right - Leading image - DE JUNO and SUPER TROOPER AH. Ridden image - DE JUNO is a 13-year-old dressage broodmare who started her career in show jumping and eventing.

Aside from her collaboration with Gerd in Cornet’s Air, she also has a special relationship with Angie Mason at Amberley House. “It is the first place in the world where I would ever want to be,” she says. “When my life was caught up in a disturbance, and I didn’t know my next steps, my path crossed with Angie’s. At the time, she faced a battle with cancer and needed help looking after her stud and breeding. We helped each other, and that evolved into an amazing friendship. We say we are family now, and it definitely feels that way.” The horses she produces at Amberley House are youngsters by Remi Lion King, who she says passes on fantastic movement and temperaments.

Karolina credits Angie with her unshakable faith in her abilities to regain her confidence to jump again. “I had four concussions in a row, and I really lost my nerve,” she explains. “It is unbelievable how much brain injuries and lack of sense of security can change your personality, emotions and even physical abilities. It takes years to build it all back, and it takes so much willpower not to quit. I learned that if you don’t have the right supportive, understanding, forgiving and empathetic environment, then you can’t recover. The brain is such an amazing organ, we can achieve anything with it, but at the same time, it can really let us down.”

After her injuries, Karolina found her brain was constantly in survival mode, looking for danger everywhere. “It was telling me all the time that I was going to die,” she recalls. “I was trying to ride through it but having green horses that couldn’t help me meant losing my confidence even more. Funny that they could buck or rear, and I would be fine, but as I was approaching a jump, all my systems would shut down, I couldn’t see the distance, and I was barely staying on the horse.” It impacted her self-worth in every way as she identified with being a jumping rider, but at the same time, she didn’t feel like she was doing it.

Karolina doesn’t have much free time between her horses, her equine bodywork and Amberley House, but she wouldn’t change it for the world and loves every minute of it. “It takes a team to make it all happen. I have amazing support from Angela Frewer, who runs my office and exercises my horses when I’m working away from home. I have Becky, with whom I know Cornet’s Air is safe and receives the best care, and Angie, who supports me in everything I do.”

Karolina has undoubtedly lived through her fair share of ups and downs, but she never lets it get her down for too long. “Even when things seem tough, it is important to see the positives in a situation,” she encourages. “Our market at the moment is one of the toughest it has ever been to sell horses, but this has turned out to be a big advantage to me as it has given me more opportunity to produce horses to higher standards, improve my riding and skills and showcase the quality horses I ride at shows. It has allowed me to get back into competition life which I love, so there are always positivessometimes you need to look for them.”

FIVE PIECES OF WISDOM:

1. Listen to your horse.

2. Even if you make a mistake, finish your round as you are still riding for gold.

3. When you are breeding horses, do not use your heart. Use your knowledge and brain; if you only have a slight chance to improve the next generation, don’t do it.

4. Progress is more important than perfection.

5. Failure is a required part of success. n

Karolina does all the horse bodywork to keep them in top form.

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barriers BREAKING

Not one to make plans, Nayton Mitchell prefers to live in the moment and grab opportunities that come his way. And not planning is panning out rather well, as he’s currently running two Canterbury properties, with a quality team of show jumpers and racehorses coming up the grades.

When he opened his 10th birthday present and discovered a bag of second-hand riding gear, Nayton Mitchell was confused. Born and raised in Auckland City, he’d never sat on a horse or had anything to do with them. That was all about to change.

From that day on, he caught a bus to his aunt Annette Smythe’s property in Cambridge every Friday after school and bussed back to Auckland on Sunday evening. Together, they spent their weekends producing ponies, and horses have been his life ever since.

Recently moving to the South Island, he’s rapidly establishing a name for himself as a producer of jumpers and racehorses, recording wins at his first-ever trials and his first race day.

At just 22, Nayton has two lease properties, side by side, at West Melton, near Christchurch. One 30-acre property with an arena is home to the show jumpers and pre-trainers, while the racehorses live on a further 30 acres next door, which handily has a 900-metre track.

Until recently, Nayton Mitchell Equestrian was a full-time show jumping and sales yard. Early this year, they started taking on pre-trainers, and it wasn’t long before Nayton decided to get his

trainer’s license, too. There are 16 horses in work between the two yards.

He is quick to pay tribute to Tyler Porteous, who helps him with the racehorses, and Maia Amos, the stable manager for the show jumpers. Both have been with him for about two and a half years and are invaluable cogs in a fast-moving wheel.

“I couldn’t do it without them. Tyler was a very successful show rider and is good with the racehorses. She worked for me, then went overseas eventing for a year, and has brought that experience back with her, which we’re benefitting from. Maia keeps everything moving – she rides, keeps all the records, buys the feed, books the farrier - all those things. They’re both an integral part of what I do.”

Nayton’s day starts at 6 am, going through the racehorses with Tyler (he does all his own track riding), finishing at 10 am, and moving on to the show jumpers. Maia will have fed out and got the jumpers in, so they’re waiting once he’s finished with the racehorses, and they begin riding.

Despite Nayton growing up pony-less in the country’s largest city, with non-horsey parents, there were plenty of relatives with a keen interest

WORDS - Rebecca Greaves IMAGES - Michelle Clarke Photography

I LIKE TO HAVE THEM IN THE BEST CONDITION POSSIBLE, LIKE SPORT HORSES. THEY ALL LOOK LIKE SHOW PONIES, AND THAT'S HOW IT SHOULD BE. IF WE DON'T GO WELL, AT LEAST WE LOOK GOOD DOING IT!

Nayton pictured with rising fiveyear-old CALVIN KLEIN HSH.

in horses, including his aunt.

He says he has always been independent. Catching the bus to Cambridge didn’t faze him, and he quickly grew to love the horses. Nothing like being thrown in the deep end; his first pony was an unbroken Welsh pony.

“Everything I was learning; the pony was learning. We got that going pretty quickly, I learned to jump, and we started producing ponies. We did five or six ponies over the next few years, mostly rogue or problem ponies. My aunt would lunge them during the week, and I’d ride them on the weekends. That start to riding really set me up to ride a range of horses, and I got the bug for producing them.

“I enjoyed the challenge of being able to get through to the other side and see what they became. We couldn’t afford to buy ponies that were already going, so it was the only way to be involved.”

Nayton’s dad bought a lifestyle block on the Kapiti Coast, so he moved there and attended college. Another aunt owned the Kapiti Vaulting Club, and Nayton would bike there after school every day to ride. He started attending Pony Club, too.

With the lifestyle block, he was able to pick up a few ponies to sell on behalf and enjoyed the business aspect. When Margaret Wing offered him a pony she had leased out for a season to then be sold, he was eager to jump some bigger fences. “I’d only really done about 1m, but we went straight to Pony Grand Prix, placing in a few and winning one. We did the Saba Sam.”

School didn’t float Nayton’s boat, and he left after Year 11. “I think I just woke up one morning and was like, ‘No, not going back.’ I knew horses were what I wanted to do. I always had a passion for business and horses.”

The appeal of travelling around the North Island circuit

Below - Nayton is excited about BROSNACROFT CENTILIVI, a rising seven-year-old gelding by EURO SPORT CENTAVOS, out of an English Riding Pony. Nayton says he has so much scope but is equally level-headed.

with the pony was far greater than school, and he rode trackwork to fund it. When the time came to move on to hacks, he struggled to find anything affordable, so he decided to go overseas at 17 instead.

Nayton moved to Ireland for six months and worked for show jumper Emily Turkington.

“I did love it. It was a big eye-opener, and it taught me to work. Just the quality of horses; it was the best thing I could have done to transition from ponies to horses. You learn to ride correctly - proper flatwork, engaging the hindquarters, working into a contact, lateral movements, grid work, that sort of thing, as well as their methods and level of care and turnout.

“I was probably a bit young, and by the end, I was homesick, ready to come home. But I was glad I did it.”

While he has no plans to go overseas again, he wouldn’t rule it out. “Who knows? Everyone tries to plan life so much; I’m big on riding the wave, seeing what’s coming at you, and what opportunities are there in the moment.”

On his return, Nayton rode trackwork in Cambridge, and when his mum moved to Palmerston North, he took a job in the area at Highden Park, a Thoroughbred training and

Nayton’s love of show jumping and racing are a good fit and take the same level of commitment and drive, of which he has plenty. Track riding here with well-known rider, Tyler Porteous.

Above right - Nayton riding KIWI SAPPHIRE at Canterbury Show Jumping.

Below left and right - C ALVIN KLEIN HSH has both presence and talent.

agistment farm. He progressed up the ranks to become Yearling Manager, buying and selling a few project horses on the side.

“One day, I just decided, why don’t I try and make a business of this and do it on my own? And that’s what I did.”

That was two and a half years ago. The business went from strength to strength, and Nayton found himself campaigning a team of eight jumpers. When the property he was based at was sold, he had trouble finding a suitable new home. He was offered a job in the South Island, and the atrocious weather sealed the deal. “It rained for two weeks straight, and I thought, bugger this, so I moved down here with three show jumpers in October.”

Nayton had planned to head back north at the end of the year, but things just fell into place. He was offered the lease of the property where his horses were grazing, and out of the blue, people started sending him horses.

“I was hesitant as I didn’t know if I would get the horses down here. I’ve always aimed to have it quite boutique, with higher-end horses, and I’ve stuck to that here. We’ve got some well-bred New Zealand horses coming through, and we’ve sold a few imports, which is cool.”

To get up and running, Nayton sold a nice young jumper and has just two of his own left. The first is Brosnacroft Centilivi (Livi), a rising seven-year-old gelding by Euro Sport Centavos, out of an English Riding Pony. Nayton has high hopes for Livi, saying he has all the scope in the world and can move to boot.

“He’s soft and sensitive but also super tough. He’s full of attitude and character, and I think he has what it takes to be a top horse; it’s just shaping to get there.”

Livi is owned in partnership with the Brosnacroft Stud,

and last season was his first, successfully jumping in the Six-Year-Old classes. He will be aimed at the Seven-YearOlds next season.

His second horse is rising five-year-old Calvin Klein HSH (Calvin), by Corofino out of a Thoroughbred mare, owned in conjunction with Charlotte Gray. Not long broken in, he has just started jumping and is showing huge ability. He will be aimed at some Five-Year-Old classes next season.

“He came from Amanda Tulloch at Hokonui Sport Horses. She’s got cool horses, well-bred, rideable, and well put together. She’s low-key, and I think she does a really good job and is a good stud to buy from.”

Like many on the circuit, Nayton would love to produce a horse to the top level. However, funding the sport means selling good horses along the way is often necessary. “The reality is, sometimes you have to sell.”

CALVIN KLEIN HSH is part-owned with Charlotte Gray and is showing huge jumping ability. They are both looking forward to next season with him.

THE BIGGEST THING IS, TO DO WELL IN THIS INDUSTRY, YOU HAVE TO BE RESILIENT. WE JUST FOCUS ON BEING BOUTIQUE AND HAVING A HIGH LEVEL OF CARE FOR THE HORSES, NOT JUST A FACTORY.

EVERYONE TRIES TO PLAN LIFE

SO MUCH; I’M BIG ON RIDING THE WAVE, SEEING WHAT’S COMING AT YOU, AND WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE IN THE MOMENT.

Soon after setting up, they were asked to take on some pre-trainers to establish flatwork and give them a break from the track. It made good business sense to Nayton, who admits he always thought he’d get his trainer’s license - just not yet.

“I had thought about racehorses, pre-trainers I had worked with before. I had my own views and methods I thought would work, but racehorses are a huge tie. You’re locked into it, and it becomes your life.”

It seems life had other plans.

Riding trackwork at Riccarton one morning, he was on a little mare called Bella Dora. He mentioned to leading South Island trainer Andrew Carston that if he ever became a trainer, this was the sort of horse he’d love to train. Andrew’s reply – “Well, it’s on Gavelhouse tonight!”

“I preach this to everyone in life who is just waiting to

live out their days. Things will come up that you never expect, and that’s how the best things happen. I went home and bought her. I turned her out to give her a break to be fully refreshed.”

Typical of Nayton, all or nothing, he thought if he was going to do one, why not have two? In partnership with Charlotte Gray and Andrew Carston, they purchased Authority. The horse had had 13 starts but was still a maiden, though it had a few placings.

As seems to be the way in this story, things fell into place when Nayton chatted to his neighbour who owned the property with the race track. “Randomly, one day I was talking to her, and she mentioned they would love someone to use the property again for horses.”

With the property taken care of, they purchased a third horse, Pinsk, from Gavelhouse, giving Nayton three originals to start ticking along.

They took Authority to his first trial, which he duly

Nayton has a full work day, which is made a little easier with the contribution of groom and co-rider Maia Amos.

won. The following week they took him to their first-ever race day at Wingatui, where he broke his maiden in his first start for Nayton. “He won my first trial and his first start for me, which was super. We were aiming for it and didn’t cut any corners. I put everything into them I could; they were on point straight away, which was cool.”

They have added a couple more racehorses from up north and several from Andrew to the team, and he says all have improved hugely.

“They go to the beach, the forest, they all work on the flat, jump, have flying changes, and all work on the bit. I’m pretty fussy about them going perfectly, like show jumpers, well-balanced and well-conditioned.

“I like to have them in the best condition possible, like sport horses. They all look like show ponies, and that’s how it should be. If we don’t go well, at least we look good doing it!”

While he has big hopes and dreams of jumping at the top level or winning a big black-type race, Nayton is a realist.

“Everyone wants to make it to the top show jumping and go international. I would love to do that, but it’s not that realistic when you don’t have the funding, and I’m not going to throw my whole life away trying to make that happen.

“The highs and lows of the sport can be gutting. Sometimes you have to sell talented young ones to fund things. The biggest thing is, to do well in this industry, you have to be resilient. We just focus on being boutique and having a high level of care for the horses, not just a factory.”

For now, his goal is to run that boutique jumping yard, focusing on quality and attention to detail. His racehorses receive the same love and care as the jumpers. It’s about doing the best he can with the horses he has, continually improving them.

He trains regularly with dressage coach Rachel Bird, who flies down from the North Island to give flat lessons. She has helped Nayton hugely. “I like that she’s not drilling dressage; she’s drilling contact and rideability.”

When asked how he feels about his achievements so far, he shrugs it off with a typically Nayton answer.

“Two years ago, I would never have imagined my life would look like this; this is a pretty good thing going. I guess, to me, it’s just normal. I have always been independent.”

Nayton is grateful to be sponsored by Equissage, which he says is a vital tool in his operation. n

www.eurosporthorses.co.nz

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION, PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

EURO SPORT DARCO OBOLENSKY

Darco x Cornet Obolensky x Grannus

2016 168cm BLACK STALLION

One of the last sons of legendary DARCO, ranked no.1 Sire in the World five years in a row from 2007 to 2011. To this day Darco has the sired the most 1.60 horses of any stallion!

“DARCO OBOLENSKY shows alot of power. He is a strong stallion who is expected to follow in the footsteps of his father DARCO.”

BWP Stallion Approval Committee

Performance tested & approved for BWP Studbook Service fee $2000 + GST - LFG

EURO SPORT KALASKA

Kalaska de Semilly x Centadel x Quilot Z

2015 169cm BAY STALLION

“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 - International Grand Prix rider of Jalisco B and Papillon Rouge, and breeder of superstars Quidam de Revel and Papillon Rouge.

Carries 50% Thoroughbred blood

EURO SPORT DIMERO NN Z

Diamant de Semilly x Casper van Erpekom x Querlybet Hero

Licensed for Hanoverian, AES & NZWB Studbooks Service fee $2000 + GST - LFG

2016 170cm SKEWBALD ZANGERSHEIDE STALLION

• Sire DIAMANT DE SEMILLY was ranked No.1 in the WBFSH World SJ Sire Rankings in 2015/16, and is currently ranked No.2

• From direct dam line of CSI SJers KRISKRAS DV 5* 1.60m, GUCCI DV 1.50m & HEROS DV 1.40m

• Cannot produce chestnut offspring

Service fee $2000 + GST - LFG

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

EURO SPORT HORSES

eurosporthorses@hotmail.com | 021 907 227 or 027 223 4818

CENTAVOS

Approved for Hanoverian, Oldenburg, SBS & NZWB Studbooks

Service fee $2000 + GST - LFG

Cannot produce chestnut offspring.

ES CENTAVOS 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.

EURO SPORT DIAMANT B

Diacontinus x Calido I x Calypso II

2014 178cm GREY STALLION

• Sire DIACONTINUS is ranked No.1 on the German FN SJ Young Horse Sire Rankings

• At the Hanoverian licensing auction the under bidder for Diamant B was Olympic Gold Medalist Ludger Beerbaum

Licensed for Hanoverian & NZWB Studbooks

Service fee $2000 + GST - LFG

“Euro Sport Centavos is extremely scopey (powerful) and careful, intelligent & lovely to ride! Traits we all hope for.”

- Multiple Olympic & World Championship SJ MedalistBEEZIE MADDEN

2004 172cm BLACK/BROWN STALLION Escudo I x Argentinus x Bariton

THE

FOR MORE

VIDEOS

Introducing - EURO SPORT DOMINATOR STERREBORNEHOF Z

2023/24

SERVICE FEE:

$2000.00 + GST LFG

• Sire - DOMINATOR 2000 Z is currently one of the best show jumpers in the world, with several wins in 5* Grand Prix. He is now climbing the stallion rankings, represented by very exciting and typey progeny.

• Dam - PEROLA COLORIDA placed 5th in the 2017 BWP National 2yr old Free Jumping Championship. BWP is currently the no. 1 ranked studbook worldwide for show jumping. PEROLA has been used solely for breeding, and DOMINATOR STERREBORNEHOF Z is her first. She descends from a small but highperforming direct dam line, including the star 5* 1.65m jumper KRISKRAS DV.

• Approved stallions in this direct line are EDDY WALLY (CCI4* eventer, at stud with the famous STAL DE MUZE), COLORADO DV Z, SOCRATES, FARCO VAN VRIESPUT, OBI WAN, SINAN STERREBORNEHOF, DORADO STERREBORNEHOF Z, ES DIMERO NN Z, and British 5yr old SJ finalist NUTELLA DUO NN Z.

In addition, progeny from this line continue to top auctions with horses like CHELSEA DV Z (foal) €68’000, SUSKE VAN DE BOORTOREN (2yr) €48’000, COLORADO DV Z (foal) €46’000, CHIQUE WILLI VAN ERPEKOM Z (foal) €28’000.

Below: DOMINATOR 2000 Z (sire)

DIAMANT DE SEMILLY (CASSINI I) 2022 season was a great year for this black stallion with two 5* wins on the Global Champions circuit.

AES LICENSED 2019 - 172cm - Piebald Zangersheide stallion DOMINATOR 2000 Z x CAMARO x QUERLYBET HERO

EURO SPORT HORSES

Introducing - EURO SPORT CHACCO DI VILLAGANA Z

2023/24

SERVICE FEE: $2000.00 + GST LFG

CHACCO DI VILLAGANA'S dam VIBELLE Z, is owned by the famed ‘Mares of Macha’ group, whose small mare band is comprised solely of 5* performing mares and the world's leading show jumping families. VIBELLE Z is by 2010 World SJ Champion VIGO D’ARSOUILLES out of Jos Lansink’s 1.60m GP mare TA BELLE VAN SOMBEKE (CHIN CHIN).

TA BELLE VAN SOMBEKE is one of the World’s best broodmares despite her competition schedule and then breeding career cut short by her death in 2012 at just 16.

VIBELLE Z is a full sister to the 1.60m 5* winning GP horse GOLDEN HAWK and a half-sister to:

• 1.60m - GLOCK’S LONDON double Olympic silver medallist 2012

• 1.60m - A PIKACHU DE MUZE

• 1.60m - TARAN DE LA POMME

• 1.60m - CASIMIR DE LA POMME

• 1.60m - DABELLE

• 1.50m - WABELLE DE MUZE

• 1.50m - CAMILLO Z

• 1.45m - FARAO DE LA POMME

• QUASIBELLE DU SEIGNEUR Z damn of: 1.60m GP OAK GROVE’S HEARTFELT damn of six out of six 1.45m - 1.60m jumpers).

• 1.60m ARAC DU SEIGNEUR Z

• 1.50m VIVALD’ICK

Numerous other superstar jumping horses come from this line; too many to list here!

Left: CHACCO BLUE has been ranked number 1 on the World SJ rankings for the past six years!

2019 - 165cm - Grey Zangersheide stallion CHACCO BLUE x VIGO D’ARSOUILLES x CHIN CHIN

CHASING equestrian

DREAMS

Although Holly McInnes's mum had ridden in her early teens, her family was largely unhorsey, so it wasn't until she was seven that she found her passion for horses. Ten weeks' worth of riding lessons at Tielcey Park was all it took for her to catch the bug, and she has never looked back.

“For my seventh birthday, I got riding lessons at Tielcey Park, which I carried on with for a further few months until they closed down. When the riding school shut, I was lucky enough that Mum and Dad bought me one of the ponies called Mouse, a Kaimanawa from the 2003 muster. Mouse was one in a million, and we did everything together. He took me all the way through Pony Club, and we did Dressage, Show Hunter, Show Jumping, Games and Eventing up to 80cm - although not very successfully," laughs Holly.“The London Olympics came around in 2012, and I got Mark Todd for a school project, which not only gave me a huge appreciation for Eventing but also intensified my obsession with Eventing and riding."

When she was 13, Holly's family purchased My Royal Spirit, now her top ride. Together they have competed through to 3* level, with plenty of successes along the way, including winning the Ruahine Motors CCN-3*s at the Silver Fern Farms North Island One Day Championships at Arran Station and being shortlisted on the 2023 Junior Oceania Championship team, which was unfortunately canceled.

“Spirit is a Northland crossbred I got when I was 13, and he was rising five. When I got Spirit, I was still competing Mouse, but we could only afford to compete

Above - Holly riding SPIRIT during the show jumping at Pony Club Champs 2022, Hawera. Right-hand page - Holly hopes to progress her 1* mount, POP IT, up the grades next season.

WORDS - Caitlin Benzie IMAGES - Denise Flay Photography

I RIDE TRACK WORK IN THE MORNINGS AND THEN HEAD HOME TO WORK MY OWN THREE EVENTERS AND ANY SCHOOLERS OR SALE ON BEHALF HORSES MY LITTLE BUSINESS HAS

one horse. As Mouse was due to slow down anyway, we decided to retire him from competing and just have fun around home. My focus moved to Spirit, and we've taught each other absolutely everything. We took each other around our first proper events, and I'm very excited that we've made it to 3* together.

“His breeding is mostly unknown, although he has a decent amount of Thoroughbred in him which includes Aberlou lines. I've always thought a fancy-bred horse isn't essential for success, which is good because he's rather unexciting on the breeding front," she laughs. “He's only 15.1hh, and his conformation isn't great, so he sometimes struggles in the Dressage and Show Jumping if I don't ride him properly. However, he makes up for it on cross-country; there's no other horse I would rather be sitting on. He has never stopped at a jump, and his cross-country record is completely spotless. He placed second in the Junior Rider Series this season even after missing the last three events due to an injury. He is so genuine and gives his all at every event. Unfortunately, he has

Above left - SPIRIT has been Holly's number one horse. Pictured here at Pony Club Champs. Above - The future looks bright for VALDEZ. Left - Holly says POP IT has a good brain and naturally finds everything easy.

sustained an injury, so he's out until next year. He should be up and running for the Autumn season when we will pick up where we left off – we have some big goals to work towards!"

Still based where she grew up in Palmerston North, Holly has the run of her family's four-acre lifestyle block for her horses. While the land size limits what she can do, she's always been very grateful to have her horses at home and not have them out grazing. Looking to the future, however, she'd love to be able to set up her own equestrian facility so that she can further expand her competition team.

"It's a great place to live, but we are constrained as we only have a small

area flat enough for schooling. Because we need all the available paddock space for grazing, we also don't have an arena or any facilities, which can make things a bit difficult when it's wet during winter - or summer, as everyone found this year! I'm lucky to have access to the neighbours' farm, which has been invaluable for teaching the young horses where their feet are and building fitness in the older ones."

Finishing her schooling

at Palmerston North Girls High School in 2022, Holly is taking a gap year to focus on horses. She certainly hasn't been sitting around during this time, though, working three jobs and

Right (competition image) - Holly was so proud of SPIRIT'S performance at Pony Club Champs in 2022. Right-hand page - VALDEZ is one to watch for the future, and Holly has high hopes for this young Thoroughbred.

I'LL BE AIMING HIM FOR THE YOUNG EVENT HORSE AT THE TAUPO THREE-DAY; HE HAS A MASSIVE ENGINE COMPARED TO MY OTHER HORSES, BUT HE'S CERTAINLY AN EXCITING HORSE FOR THE FUTURE.

POPPY WAS ONLY THREE WHEN I GOT HER, SO IT'S BEEN A REAL PROCESS. SHE HAS TONS OF ABILITY ON THE FLAT AND JUMPING BUT HAS TAKEN A WHILE TO MATURE AND GET CONFIDENT JUMPING.

POP IT is a 16hh six-year-old bay

Thoroughbred mare by ROCK' N' POP and out of an O'Reilly mare.

learning everything possible about the equestrian industry.

“I ride track work in the mornings and then head home to work my own three eventers and any schoolers or sale on behalf horses my little business has. Sometimes I also have the occasional project horse or pony to bring on and sell to help fund the Eventing season. I also help out at Jump Start Thoroughbred Retraining, which is good fun. I've already learnt heaps this year from doing horses full-time, and I wouldn't change it for the world."

Holly has three horses in her

team; My Royal Spirit, Pop It and Valdez. Pop It is a 16hh six-year-old bay Thoroughbred mare by Rock' N' Pop and out of an O'Reilly mare, who Holly has owned since she was three. Keeping with the theme of Thoroughbreds, Holly's third teammate Valdez is a four-year-old 16.3hh gelding who she found through Jump Start

Thoroughbred Retraining.

“Poppy was only three when I got her, so it's been a real process. She has tons of ability on the flat and jumping but has taken a while to mature and get confident

jumping. She has given me an awesome feel in her last two starts, so hopefully, she'll be able to step up and fill Spirit's shoes for the start of the season while he's out. She's competed up to 1*, and I'll be looking to step her up to 2* at some point this season. She naturally finds everything a lot easier than Spirit and has such a good brain.

“Dez has so much talent and ability, and Dana has done such a good job in starting his education off the track. He will do a few events this season but needs a bit more time to get stronger and mature. I'm excited about him and can't wait to crack into some proper schooling. I'll be aiming him for the Young Event Horse at the Taupo Three-Day; he has a massive engine compared to my other horses, but he's certainly an exciting horse for the future."

For the vast majority of her riding career, Holly has been lucky enough to train with Dressage rider Julie Pearson who, like Holly, has a special connection with Thoroughbreds, having trained to Grand Prix with Zinstar, a Thoroughbred by Gold Star and out of Pacific Lass.

“I've been going to Julie since I was on

VALDEZ is a four-year-old, 16.3hh gelding who she found through Jump Start Thoroughbred Retraining.

WE TOOK EACH OTHER AROUND OUR FIRST PROPER EVENTS, AND I'M VERY EXCITED THAT WE'VE MADE IT TO 3* TOGETHER.

my first pony. She's taught me so much over the years, from doing my first 65cm event all the way through to doing my first 3*. She's helped me produce all my horses from scratch; without her, we definitely wouldn't be where we are today. She has been the most influential person in my riding and always makes sure I do things properly and don't take shortcuts, which I think has given me a good idea of what I value in terms of riding and producing horses. She's always willing to help and doesn't sugarcoat things which I think is important if you want to improve and be the best you can be."

With an exciting life working full-time with horses and having two horses in the upper levels of Eventing for the coming season, Holly is absolutely loving life at the moment. However, she's quick to remain grounded and is always very aware of wanting to stay

connected to her humble roots.

“For the time being, I'm pretty happy doing what I'm doing. I love riding at the track in the mornings and producing my horses. People like Tim and Jonelle Price, Blyth Tait, Michael Jung and Laura Collett have had a major influence on my goals, how I want to ride and what I want to achieve. Eventually, I would like to take a horse overseas and give some of the big events a crack - and maybe have a stint in Australia in the next five years. I think it's crucial to appreciate where you came from and the people who have helped you along the way.

“At this point, I don't have any plans for further study. I was considering going into Veterinary Physiotherapy, but I need to figure out a way to do that and still be able to event. So, for the foreseeable future, I'm going to keep working hard to try and make horses viable as a career." n

Above - Holly and SPIRIT on cross-country at Pony Club Champs 2022.

Below - Holly pictured with SPIRIT and her coach Julie Pearson.

NORTH ISLAND STORES

AMS SADDLERY

82A Spartan Road, Takanini, 2105

Phone: 09 298 7094

Visit: amssaddlery.co.nz

CANTERBURY EQUESTRIAN AUCKLAND

49 Main Road, Kumeu, Auckland

Phone: 022 585 1144

Visit: canterburyequestrian.co.nz

EAST’S OUTDOOR WORK & LEISURE

109 Main Road, Makaraka

Gisborne, 4010

Phone: 06 868 8479

Visit: eastoutdoors.co.nz

EQUESTRIAN CENTRAL

74 High Street, Waipawa, Central Hawkes Bay

Phone: 0800 EQ CENT (372 368)

Visit: equestriancentral.co.nz

FOUNTAIN CITY SADDLERY

15A Lincoln Street, Hamilton

Phone: 0508 SADDLE

Visit: fountaincitysaddlery.co.nz

HR FISKEN & SONS

295 Tuakau Road, Pukekohe

Phone: 09 238 9414

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HIGHFIELDS EQUESTRIAN 25 Hurlstone Drive, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth

Phone: 06 751 2225

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HORSESPORTS SADDLERY

Unit 2/84 Spartan Road, Takanini, Auckland

Phone: 09 269 6518

Visit: horsesports.co.nz

HORSEWYSE SADDLERY

4A Cloverlea Road

Palmerston North

Phone: 06 354 7787

Visit: horsewyse.co.nz

SUMMIT GRAINS & SADDLERY

16 Oliver Street, Cambridge

Phone: 07 827 6091

Fax: 07 827 3881

Visit: summitsaddlery.co.nz

TAUPO EQUESTRIAN SUPPLIES

55 Titan Way, Taupo 3378

Phone: 07 377 8370

Visit: taupoequestriansupplies.co.nz

SOUTH ISLAND STORES

CANTERBURY EQUESTRIAN (CHRISTCHURCH)

823 Main South Road, Templeton, Christchurch

Phone: 03 349 6241

Visit: canterburyequestrian.co.nz

CANTERBURY EQUESTRIAN (NORTH CANTERBURY – WOODEND)

50 Main North Rd, Woodend

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Visit: canterburyequestrian.co.nz

RANGIORA EQUESTRIAN SUPPLIES

623 Lineside Road, Rangiora, Christchurch

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RICHMOND SADDLERY

430 Paton Road, Hope, 7081

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SOUTH CANTERBURY SADDLERY LTD

Shop 2, 300 Hilton Highway, Washdyke, Timaru

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THE STABLE DOOR EQUINE 114 Hepburns Road Ashburton 7776

Phone: 02 7220 2249

Visit: thestabledoor.co.nz

KUMEU GRAIN 933 Waitakere Road (opposite the showgrounds), Kumeu, West Auckland

Phone: 09 412 7400

Visit: horselands.co.nz

PREBBLE EQUESTRIAN 422 Gillespies Line, Palmerston North

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C ANTERBURY SADDLERY

Cnr Racecourse & Yaldhurst Road, Riccarton, Christchurch

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MARLBOROUGH EQUESTRIAN BARN

95 Battys Road, Blenheim

Phone: 03 578 8914

Visit: marlboroughequestrianbarn.com

A FAMILY legacy

Growing up in a family so heavily involved in the harness racing industry meant it was inevitable for Tannah Johnson to have horses as part of her life. However, the veer off into Dressage probably wasn’t quite what her parents, Ross and Janene, expected.

“I started riding when I was four years old. With Mum and Dad being involved in horses, my older sister Madison and I always had ponies around. Madi is four years older than me, and as a kid, I was absolutely enamoured by everything she did, so if she wanted to ride ponies, then I wanted to ride ponies! I started the way many Kiwi kids do at Pony Club and then a few show jumping shows, but it was all very casual. My

first couple of ponies were hand-me-downs from Madi, but eventually, I was lucky enough to have my first lease pony, Penny. She was the type of pony that would try to jump anything you put in front of her, no matter how bad my riding was,” Tannah laughs. “Back then, I did a lot of different disciplines, so for that, she was the best pony. Then, when I hit around 12, I started getting a little more serious.”

WORDS & IMAGES - Caitlin Benzie

Tannah’s parents had both been involved in the harness racing industry for many years. Janene bought into her first horse at 19 and spent time working as the Alexandra Park race night interviewer in between her other greatest passion, yoga, which she has taught since 2006. Ross’s parents, Colin and Margaret, have owned and bred many top harness horses, including the 1984 Three-Year-Old Trotter of the Year, Indette.

Even after 40 years in the industry, the pair still have a huge passion for horses and are lucky enough to have raced over 100 winners, of which they have bred the vast majority of themselves. However, in his youth, Ross didn’t see himself following in his parent’s footsteps. Instead, he was determined to make a go of farming in the horticulture industry.

“New Zealand had recently started exporting blueberries, so I had this great flash of business inspiration that was how I would make my fortune,” laughs Ross. “I went off to Lincoln University in Canterbury to study horticulture and, while there, played for the university rugby team, which in the end brought me back into the harness racing game. The rugby boys were out for a beer one night at the end of my degree, and they convinced me to stay on in Canterbury and play for the local West

Henry (DAVONTE) is a very chilled horse. Tannah aims to compete with him at Medium and is excited to see how the season shapes up.

Melton rugby team. As a way of helping me out with accommodation, Bob McArdle gave me a house at the Nevele R stud to live in if I did a bit of work for the trainers, and that was where a career in the equine industry started to grow.”

Ross’s first introduction to the horse transport industry was accompanying a shipment of horses to America, followed by nine months of working in LEP’s Bloodstock division. He then decided to go out on his own and, in 1987, created Bloodstock Airfreight Services (BAS), which grew steadily in the Standardbred and Sporthorse industries. In 1999, the director of IRT NZ, David Cole, and IRT founder Quentin Wallace approached Ross and Janene about merging the businesses. The rest is history.

“I had a lot of respect for how IRT ran their business, so the decision to join forces was easy for us. We ran a horse quarantine facility in Karaka, as well as airfreighting over 5,000 horses annually throughout the world. In 2017, I sold my interest in IRT and Janene and I purchased our 65-acre farm in Clevedon.”

When Tannah started riding more competitively, her dream was show jumping, so the family bought a cute grey pony called Caz to take her up the heights. However, a chance encounter at the Land Rover Horse of the Year would change her equestrian path forever.

“When I was around nine, I did a little bit of harness racing with ponies at Kids Kartz, but it was relatively short-lived – I’m sure very much to Mum and Dad’s

Right - Tannah and MINOBIE in the Treadlite Young Rider Team Test at the Nationals.

disappointment! Show jumping was what I wanted to do in my early teens. However, one year at Horse of the Year, Dad had a stand there with IRT in between the Show Jumping and Dressage main arenas. I had spent the whole week with my eyes glued on the show jumping, but they took a break for the Grand Prix dressage freestyle on Sunday afternoon, so I thought I might as well go and watch. It changed everything! I was hooked - that was it for me – I haven’t jumped a fence since.”

Tannah’s dressage journey

began in earnest with the purchase of her first hack, a decidedly nonbred-for dressage Thoroughbred x Quarter Horse called Minobie.

“When we started looking for my first hack, we found a beautiful 15.2hh nine-year-old for sale on behalf with Wendy Skelton. Even though the horse was amazing, I just didn’t click with him, so Wendy ended up bringing out a 16.3hh 14-year-old. Just

a slight difference to what we were looking for! I absolutely fell in love with Minnie, and even though she wasn’t the ideal first horse on paper, I know that I couldn’t have found a better horse. Despite her breeding and age, she had a true gift for dressage and loved competing. She had competed at Medium level when I got her, so I downgraded her to Novice, and together we worked our way back up the grades through to Advanced, culminating in Reserve Champion at Waitemata Champs in 2022. We even competed in a CDI-Y at the Bates Dressage Nationals.”

Sadly for Tannah, there always comes a time for an older horse to end their competitive journey, an event that came much sooner than expected for her with Minnie.

“Minnie’s retirement was one of the hardest things I’ve had to deal with in my riding so far. While competing in the CDI-Y at Nationals, I could feel something wasn’t quite right after the second

“I was hookedthat was it for me –I haven’t jumped a fence since.”

The family bonds are very tight. Tannah is pictured here with her mum and dad, Janene and Ross.

test. Minnie, of course, being the wonderful horse she is, still tried her hardest until the very end. When we got back home, we decided to investigate and found that she had a bone chip. Devastatingly it was in a compromising place that made it too risky to operate, so the vet advised us to retire her. It was hard for me, but she had been the best horse, so a happy retirement living her life out on our farm was by far the only choice for her. She taught me skills that I use every day while training Henry, and she allowed me the chance to compete at a level that I never thought would be possible. She truly is one of a kind.”

Currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and International Business with a minor in Spanish and working part-time at a designer clothing store called Aje, it’s fair to say that Tannah is kept quite busy. Based between her family’s gorgeous farm in Clevedon

Henry (DAVONTE) is a seven-year-old brown gelding by DREAM BOY and out of a HIS HIGHNESS mare. Below - Tannah is very lucky to have such supportive parents.

and an apartment she shares with Madi in the city, Tannah feels incredibly grateful to have horsey parents that can help out on the nights she’s away. Her current mount, Henry, is a seven-year-old brown gelding by Dream Boy and out of a His Highness mare.

“I’d love to have Davonte (Henry) out competing at Medium this season, but we’ll just see how we go. I think it’s important not to compare your progress to others - the pace you move up the grades or the scores you get can vary so much for each horse and individual and can change each day, so I think it’s crucial to stay focused on your own journey and be kind to people who are on theirs. Henry has a great personality, loves a cuddle, and is a very chilled horse but is really forward-thinking during schooling. We clicked straight away, and he’s a fast learner, so I am excited to see him progress through the grades.”

Tannah is incredibly lucky to have a fantastic team behind her, led first and foremost by her exceptionally supportive family, something that this talented teen is well and truly aware of and grateful for.

“My mum, dad and sister are a huge part of the support team behind my riding. This year, after a lot of annoying nagging on my part, I was lucky enough to have an arena built on our property – if they say no the first 100 times, just keep asking, guys,” laughs Tannah. “But before that, as we didn’t have any

large enough flat areas, my parents would drive me to nearby arenas four times a week, which they have done every single week for the past six years. Their love and support are one of a kind. Dressage is hugely different from the thrill of racing horses, but they love it just as much. They attend every one of my lessons and try to pick up the names of each movement, even if they don’t know what it means. Another incredibly influential person is my coach Jeanette Benzie. She is a coach, friend and mentor and has taken my riding from Preliminary on ponies to competing in a CDI-Y. She has impacted my riding career in many more ways than just being a coach, and I am incredibly grateful. Alongside my weekly lessons with Jeanette, I also get lessons with Cooper Oborn every one to two months when he is in Auckland. Their teaching styles complement each other, and having another set of eyes every few months is invaluable.

“While we were able to show Tannah horse husbandry, neither Janene nor I had any idea about the finer details of dressage,” says Ross. “In business, if I lacked knowledge in a certain area, I always tried to surround myself with people who could fill that void. We have been very lucky to have had many people who have helped Tannah and us on her dressage journey. While she has always had amazing help, it’s easy for us to say that Tannah has worked very hard and must take a lot of the credit for her success. We’re very proud of her. C

EVENTING spotlight

A BIG THING I’VE FOUND IN THIS SPORT IS THAT THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU REALLY MATTER. DESPITE IT BEING AN INDIVIDUAL SPORT IN THE RING OR ON THE COURSE, THERE ARE SO MANY CRUCIAL PEOPLE THAT PLAY A HUGE PART IN ENABLING YOU TO RIDE OR COMPETE TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY.

Mackenzie pictured with CHS DIPLOMAT.

Part of THE DREAM

WORDS & IMAGES - Caitlin Benzie

Quiet and

unassuming

but one of the hardest workers on the Eventing circuit, Mackenzie was a late starter to riding, beginning after her first taste of riding on her ninth birthday.

“Mum had ridden in Hawkes Bay when she was younger, but Dad knew nothing about horses until I started riding. My riding journey began when I went on a horse trek with my best friend for my birthday; from there, I begged for riding lessons until poor Mum and Dad finally gave in. I joined a local riding school for weekly lessons, and after a while, it became pretty obvious that I wasn’t giving up any time soon, so Mum and Dad got me a pony, and I joined Mangere Pony Club.”

When Mackenzie was 12, she moved on to her second pony, Jumping Jack, a full-sized Stationbred pony of unknown breeding who was as quirky as they come. Previously having competed to 2* level with Jasmyne Speake, Jack showed Mackenzie the ropes of Eventing, taking her through from her first 80cm Pony Club event to her first 2* Horse Trial.

“When I outgrew my first pony, I was very fortunate to find Jack. He was amazing, but definitely had his moments – some days I couldn’t put a cover on him, you could never put a jacket on when mounted, and I often struggled even to get on and off him,” she laughs. “Regardless of his quirks, he gave me my love for Eventing, particularly cross-country. I did my first 2* at 14 on him and was part of the Auckland Area Team that won the 2019 NZPCA Eventing Championships. He wasn’t the biggest fan of dressage but was the boldest jumping pony I’ve ever sat on and would always dig deep on course to give me everything. I could always trust him to bring me home safe, and he instilled so much confidence in me. I count myself incredibly lucky to have sat on such a brave gutsy pony.”

After a couple of years at Mangere Pony Club, the decision was made for Mackenzie to base her horses with Donna Smith Eventing in Waeranga. An integral part of her riding journey, Donna and Elise have been with Mackenzie since her first

Determination to succeed, a fantastic support crew and being undeniably aware of just how important giving back is has cemented Auckland teenager Mackenzie Marlo as a bright new spark on the Eventing circuit.

event on Jack, providing insight and inspiration daily along the way. “Donna and Elise have been with me since my very first ride on Jack six years ago. They have played the biggest part in producing Dips (CHS Diplomat) to be the horse he is today and also me to become the rider I am now. Since firstmeeting them, I’ve spent countless weekends and holidays on their farm in Waerenga, and they’ve become like my second family. I have so much respect and admiration for how they ride and produce horses and who they are as people. They have taught me so much about respect and kindness towards everyone and the importance of the people and team behind you. Being part of the DSE team has been an invaluable foundation for riding and life in general; I couldn’t imagine life without them! A big thing I’ve found in this sport is that the people around you really matter. Despite it being an individual sport in the ring or on the course, there are so many crucial people that play a huge part in enabling you to ride or compete to the best of your ability.”

Mackenzie’s hack eventing career began with CHS Diplomat, a 15.2hh 10-year-old gelding by Rascalion and out of a Worldwide mare. Started by Donna, he had one 95cm start under his belt before he was purchased for Mackenzie as a fun first hack that she could learn and produce after moving off ponies. Mackenzie and Dips have obviously exceeded all expectations, competing through to 3* level and representing New Zealand in Melbourne at the Oceania Championships.

“I first saw Dips in the cross-ties at Donna’s as a six-year-old

Above - Mackenzie and CHS DIPLOMAT at the Troy Wheeler Contracting Springbush Horse Trial during the Stirling Collection CCI2*-S showjumping phase. Lower right-hand page - Mackenzie riding CHS RIPLEYS MAGIC at the Troy Wheeler Contracting Springbush Horse Trial in the Ray White CCN105.

I HAD MENTIONED TO MIKE KING ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY, AND HE OFFERED HIS SUPPORT THROUGH GUMBOOT FRIDAY TO HELP ME GET OVER THERE. TO EVEN COMPETE IN MELBOURNE WAS SURREAL, BUT REPRESENTING NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST MENTAL HEALTH CHARITY WAS SOMETHING ELSE.

when I was 14, and loved his long forelock that was almost down his nose. Ten minutes after meeting him, I was attempting to sit to his big trot around the arena and fell desperately in love! From spending hours mustering on the back hills at Donna’s to jumping my first 3* at 16, he’s my best friend, and we have grown up together. Being part of the winning young rider team for Oceania in Melbourne was crazy; it was also a very special feeling to be sitting on a horse I had taken up through the levels. It was our first season at 3*, and I had only just achieved my MERS to do a 3*L, so I went over there with the mindset to learn as much as possible and do Dips justice, as he deserved every opportunity to perform over the weekend. I was very lucky to have my sponsor, Dominque from Agility Equine Sports Massage, get Dips in tip-top condition before he left. It was an unbelievable feeling to go clear cross-country – Dips felt amazing and

loved the atmosphere. The support around me in Melbourne was incredible. I was beyond lucky to have Donna and Elise over there; I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them. Being in an environment as big as that and surrounded by a team of incredible quality horses, riders and coaches was so inspiring and only made my drive and passion for Eventing even bigger.”

Getting to Melbourne was only possible for Mackenzie due to the generosity of an essential organisation within New Zealand’s Mental Health sector. Gumboot Friday is the brainchild of well-known comedian Mike King and his organisation ‘I Am Hope’, and is a free counselling service for any young person aged 25 and under. Since 2021, New Zealanders have donated $3.3 million to fund free counselling for children, meaning that Gumboot Friday has funded 20,481 counselling sessions, helping 9,376 children.

“I remember getting the call at the end of lunch at school that I had gone from Reserve for the team to going to Melbourne, and after the initial shock wore off, I started to think how everything would work to get us over to Australia. I had mentioned to Mike King about the opportunity, and he offered his support through Gumboot Friday to help me get over there. To even compete in Melbourne was surreal, but representing New Zealand’s largest mental health charity was something else. Mike and the team at Gumboot Fridays’ passion towards such an important issue in New Zealand and their determination to make change is incredibly inspiring, so the feeling of having their support in Melbourne was unbelievably special. I’ve been exceptionally fortunate to continue to represent Gumboot Friday and what they stand for as an ambassador. I feel so proud to be aligned with such a phenomenal and important charity.”

Above - Mackenzie riding CHS DIPLOMAT at the Peninsula Medical Centre Hunua during the Dunstan Horsefeeds CCI3*-S.

While Mackenzie’s 2021/22 season looked from the outside to be finishing on an extreme high after Melbourne, it was clouded in sadness with the devastation of losing her gorgeous CHS Ripley’s Magic. However, every dark cloud has a silver lining.

“Last year was one of the best and worst years. Hearing that Jack had passed away due to a freak injury and losing my young horse CHS Ripley’s Magic, within six months of each other was really tough. Magic was a six-year-old Thoroughbred x Hanoverian by CHS Ripley’s Dream. I bought her as a five-year-old, having jumped around a couple of 95cms with Donna. She had just stepped up to 2* when she passed, and it took quite a while to deal with. However, losing Magic did open the opportunity for DSE Presley to join the family. Elvis is a 12-year-old Thoroughbred by Patapan and out of Straight Strike. He’s a busy wee horse, and I’ve only had him since April last year, but he loves people and attention, so he’s amazing to have around. I’ve learnt so much from him in such a short time, and it has been a real privilege to sit on a horse as sensitive and responsive as Elvis. He has a cool work ethic, and it’s been so much fun to jump around the 3* tracks on him this season.”

Currently based at Tich Massey’s gorgeous Springbush equestrian facility at the base of the Hunua Ranges, Mackenzie is in her final year at Diocesan School for Girls in Epsom. Having been recently re-named on the New Zealand High Performance Talent ID Squad has only increased her drive to be successful with her team, and having both horses at 3* this season means it’s sure to be an exciting one.

“I recently made the move from having my horses based at DSE to Springbush; I loved the horses being at Donna and Elise’s; however, going into Year 13, I needed the horses closer to me to balance my riding and schoolwork. I feel very privileged to have the horses at Springbush and am very grateful to Tich for the chance. I’m excited for the upcoming season at 3*. I have so much to learn on both horses. I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my partnership with them, especially getting to know Elvis better. At the end of the day, none of us would be where we are without our horses, both past and present, so keeping both boys healthy and happy will always be my top priority.” C

big aspirationsSMALL TEAM,

Having non-horsey parents did not stop 18-year-old Bridie Quigley from catching the horsey bug. With talent to burn and a world-class team of people and horses behind her, Bridie is undoubtedly one to watch for the future.

Born and raised in Central Auckland, horses were far from being on the cards for Bridie as a child growing up. However, a week spent at a school holiday riding camp in Helensville was enough for her to be bitten hard by the horsey bug. After many years of persistence, she was rewarded with a pony of her own.

“I’m a city girl at heart. As a kid, I would never have imagined a life like I have now. To be fair, I don’t think poor Mum and Dad would have either,” she laughs. “Being child number three, Mum was quite happy to be rid of me for a week when I wanted to tag along with my neighbour going to horse camp. Between that first camp and when I got my own pony, I cried every time horses were bought up because I was just so desperate to have one of my own – that camp turned out to be the most expensive school holidays ever for my parents!”

A relatively late starter compared to many young

riders currently on the circuit, Bridie was 12 when she got her first pony after her older sister Hannah sat down with her parents and told them it definitely wasn’t ‘just a phase’ - it was time for Bridie to have a pony of her own.

“I got my first pony, Ace Up My Sleeve, on Valentine’s Day in 2017. I was fortunate enough to become a member of Mangere Pony Club, who were beyond helpful, and understanding of people who had absolutely no idea. With us all coming from a non-horsey background, the first year of owning a pony was incredibly eye-opening. I am so thankful to the members of Mangere Pony Club who took the time to educate my family and me – they provided a fantastic foundation for me to continue on from.”

Bridie’s competition career started in the Show Hunter ring, where she competed at Horse of the Year on her first pony. In early 2020 at 15, she had her first taste of Eventing on Ricker Ridge Riley, and she never

WORDS & IMAGES - Caitlin Benzie

I’M A CITY GIRL AT HEART. AS A KID, I WOULD NEVER HAVE IMAGINED A LIFE LIKE I HAVE NOW. TO BE FAIR, I DON’T THINK

POOR MUM AND DAD WOULD HAVE EITHER.

looked back. Now 18 and based in Coatesville on a beautiful lifestyle property, Bridie is currently on a gap year after finishing high school while she decides what she wants to do with her future. Her focus this year has been on riding fulltime and a bit of coaching, and she currently has four horses on her eventing team.

Oranoa Greyson is the most interestingly bred horse in the group, by a Thoroughbred called Spectator but out of the Appaloosa mare P & R Carribean Queen (P & R Colidas Hopeful Lad). Bred and started by the Foxes, Greyson went on to be competed by Heelan Tompkins through to 4* level before Bridie took over the ride in 2021.

The rest of her team includes Encore, a six-year-old black Warmblood x Thoroughbred gelding by Euro Sport Centavos, Camaro Xtreme, a six-year-old grey gelding by Cassiano and out of Henton Evita (El Bundy) and Braveheart Xtreme, another six-year-old by Cassiano, but out of Chello Xtreme (Corofino II).

“I always wanted to take a gap year after school to fully figure out what I wanted to do, so this year, I’m giving fulltime riding a go and coaching a talented bunch of local riders in the afternoons and weekends when I’m not competing.

Above: Bridie pictured with her yard companion, Bear. Right - Bridie competing with ORANOA GREYSON during the 3* cross-country at Kihikihi Horse Trial. Image - Julia Murch Photography.

I’ve discovered a passion for coaching; I love passing on my knowledge and seeing the riders develop and progress over time - it’s so rewarding to be part of that process. I’m also very fortunate to have the privilege of working with my amazing horses; they are each incredibly special in their own way. Their personalities are all so different, and I love that about them. The team clown would have to be Encore; he loves destroying his rugs and harassing the others, but he never fails to make us all laugh. Without fail, at every show, someone comes to tell me my black horse is making a weird noise. It’s always Encore, fast asleep and snoring!”

While the 2022/23 Eventing season was plagued with cancellations due to the weather (as were most disciplines), it was still Bridie’s best season yet, culminating with a win in

the Waipa Home of Champions CCN3* at Kihikihi Horse Trial in April.

“Oranoa Greyson is my most successful horse on paper, having an incredible record at 3* last season with not having a single jump fault, and the same at 2* the season before. He’s nicknamed Mr Consistent. He’s a huge credit to Janet and Graham Fox from Oranoa Sporthorses and Heelan Tompkins. However, I’m so proud of Encore and Camaro Xtreme, who both had an incredibly successful season with many personal bests ticked off. Success is so much more than the results on paper. Working with young horses is beyond rewarding, definitely testing at times, but that’s the sport. Every time I work with a young horse, I celebrate little wins; it’s all about progress. However, it was pretty exciting when Greyson and I took the win 3* at Kihikihi – a special moment with a super-special horse.

Right- Bridie competing ENCORE at the Taupo 3DE during the CCN105-L cross-country.

Image - Julia Murch Photography.

I ALWAYS WANTED TO TAKE A GAP YEAR AFTER SCHOOL TO FULLY FIGURE OUT WHAT I WANTED TO DO, SO THIS YEAR, I’M GIVING FULL-TIME RIDING A GO...

It was made even more memorable by having two of my incredibly supportive sponsors there, Julia Murch and Lewis Sharp.”

The past few years haven’t all been smooth sailing for Bridie, as in November 2018, after some re-occurring knee pain, a bone tumour was found in the top of her left tibia.

“I’d been experiencing knee pain and ended up getting an x-ray, and by pure chance, the top of the tumour was caught on the x-ray. After the first appointment with my specialist, we were quite happy to leave the tumour where it was because it had been diagnosed as an enchondroma, which is a benign cartilage tumour. Eight months later, I started experiencing pain where the tumour was and went back to the specialist. It turned out the tumour had grown 15% in those eight months - a path which enchondromas typically don’t take – although after a biopsy, we did have confirmation it was a benign enchondroma. The decision was made quickly to remove the tumour, as it was on its way to causing trouble. I had to have two surgeries. The first one put me out of riding for three months, and I missed the first half of the 19/20 season. Then COVID-19 hit, and I missed the second half too. The second surgery would put me out of riding for eight weeks, and it

looked like I would miss Puhinui Three-Day for a second time, which was incredibly disappointing as it had been my biggest goal for the last two seasons. Thankfully, my incredible surgeon was able to perform my surgery on his last day of work, so I could compete at the Three-Day, where I came second in the CCN1*, and then had surgery three days later.”

Bridie has been incredibly lucky to have the support and coaching of Monica Spencer since 2019 when, thanks to being in the right place at the right time, she was able to start having lessons with her. Due to being a part of the New Zealand Talent Identification Squad and now the Talent Development Squad, Bridie has also been lucky enough to train with coaches like Blyth

Tait, Lizzie Green and Penny Pearce.

“Monica has been easily the most influential person in my riding career; she has shaped me not only as a rider but also as a person. I wouldn’t be where I am without her - the endless knowledge she shares with me is invaluable. She deeply understands horses and has taught me so much in and out of the saddle. She inspires me daily to work hard to be the best I can be, for myself and my horses and has given me one of the best pieces of advice ever – the harder you work, the luckier you get. It’s coming up four years of training under Monica’s guidance, and I can’t thank her enough. She’s so much more than just my coach; she’s my family, along with her husband, Spence and son, Gus. I spent every school holiday based there during my last three years of school, and I am forever grateful to them for opening their doors to me and treating me like one of their own.”

With a fantastic team around her and some massive plans for the next couple of years, the future looks blindingly bright for this talented and hard-working young rider. “One thing that horses have taught me is to be adaptable.

Above - Bridie has high hopes for ENCORE, her six-year-old black Warmblood x Thoroughbred gelding by EURO SPORT CENTAVOS.

Left - Bridie with her current team of horses (L-R); CAMARO XTREME, ENCORE, and ORANOA GRAYSON.

Plans change every day, and nothing is guaranteed; there’s always something new for them to throw at you,” she laughs. “I want to continue to produce my team of young horses and get established at the top level with Oranoa Greyson. The big goal for next season is to event at Land Rover Horse of The Year; I’ve always wanted to jump around there since I first watched it; fingers crossed HOY 2024 goes ahead! I have my sights set on some international events. Adelaide has always appealed, and competing over the ditch would be an incredible experience. Next winter, I aim to head off somewhere, destination unknown currently, but I really want that overseas experience.

“I’m extremely lucky that my parents, Ken and Chrissie, are my number one supporters and are so involved in the sport. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without them. Mum couldn’t even tow a float when I got my first pony, and now she drives our class 4 truck like a legend,” laughs Bridie. “Dad always bikes the crosscountry with me; it’s our little ritual at every show without fail. My absolute super-groom Eilish Neal always has the horses looking their best and keeps everything running to perfect time at shows. I’m so appreciative to have such a supportive team of sponsors this year. Julia Murch Photography has been amazing since we partnered up in early 2021. Sharp Farrier Services joined the team early this year; he does the best job with my horses, and I feel very privileged to have Lewis as a supporter. My newest sponsor, The Brave Pants Company, joined the crew after Taupo Three-Day this year, and I’m very proud to represent them. Their clothing is the only thing I’ll ride in now, and the message behind the brand is something I back 100%. As with everything with horses, we all know it takes a village, and I’m so grateful to have mine!” n

Left - CAMARO XTREME, a six-year-old grey gelding by CASSIANO out of HENTON EVITA.

Above - Bridie and ENCORE in the 95cm at Randlab Matamata Horse Trial Image - Julia Murch Photography.

Lower left - Bridie competing ORANOA GREYSON in the 3* at Randlab Matamata Horse Trial. Image Julia Murch Photography

A THIRST FOR

Since she was a little girl, eventer Kelli Frewin has dreamed of going to the Olympics. She had no idea how, but she knew she wanted to wear the silver fern. Grooming at the top 5* events and the World Equestrian Games has cemented her desire to compete at that level one day, too.

Answering a Facebook ad for a job with Amanda (Muzi) Pottinger was when it all started to fall into place for young eventer Kelli Frewin, shaping her into the rider she is today. While Muzi is off overseas chasing her goals at the very top of the sport, Kelli, 23, is quietly determined to follow in her former boss’s footsteps, and she’s chipping away with a nice team of horses here in New Zealand.

Based in Hawke’s Bay, this full-time rider lives in Napier with her partner, Josh Hankins, while the horses live half an hour away on her parents’ 18-acre lifestyle property at Maraekakaho.

“I’m very grateful that the horses are at my parents, as they’re both huge supporters. My dad helps out with feeding and rugging when I get busy during the season and often fills the everimportant role of number one groom and videographer,” Kelli says. Her days are packed with a mixture of schoolers, lessons, a limited number of sale on behalf horses, and producing her team. “I sell maybe one horse a year, but I am trying to produce horses through to the upper levels. Lessons and schooling are a big part of what I do.”

Kelli was a city girl born in Wellington, and the family moved to Hawke’s Bay when she was six months old. Her riding career began with lessons at the local riding school, and at age 12, she finally convinced her parents to move to some land and buy her a pony. The show ring was where she cut her teeth.

“I was 13 when I got my first pony, a retired show pony, so I started off showing. My cousin was into it, and I used to go along to HOY and ‘groom’ for her. Then I got a young show pony and did

showing until I was 17 and finished on ponies.”

Kelli credits a good friend who lived down the road, Tanya Koens, with introducing her to the eventing world.

“She let me ride her old Thoroughbred - he was off the track, and she did a bit of everything with him. She had evented him to about 95cm, and I did a couple of 80cm events. That gave me the eventing bug.”

She admits that she wasn’t really hooked - or even serious about horses - until she finished school and took the job as a working pupil with Muzi.

“Right from a kid, I said to myself I wanted to go to the Olympics for eventing, and I was determined to make that happen, somehow. I convinced my parents I didn’t need to go to uni, saw the ad on Facebook, and thought I’d give it a crack. To be honest, I didn’t even realise who Amanda Pottinger was, which sounds so bad!

“I’d decided eventing was what I wanted to do before I applied for the job, but I didn’t know how or why or where I was going. I had no pathway and landed on my feet with that job.”

Kelli says she owes a lot to Muzi and credits her with shaping her into the rider she is today.

“I say I was like a sack of potatoes when I arrived, and she took me under her wing. We had so many cool experiences in my two years there.”

Highlights included going to Adelaide 5* twice (with two placings) and victory in the 4* at both the Three-Day at Taupo and the Horse of the Year Show.

WORDS - Rebecca Greaves IMAGES - © Belinda Pratt Photography

BUNDY HELPED MY SHOW

JUMPING HUGELY, AND SHE WAS REALLY GOOD FOR MY LITTLE 3* HORSE PHOENICIAN ZATALK (TODD). SHE’S VERY GOOD WITH HOT HORSES, SHE’S SUCH A CALM PERSON, AND ALL HER HORSES ARE CALM!

“It was an epic two years, and horses really became my life. Being part of the squad trainings and sitting in on so many lessons was invaluable. It’s the little things you learn, like all about horse fitness - you need to be taught by someone. She was fantastic to work for; there wasn’t a single bad day.”

On her final day of work with Muzi, Kelli received a phone call to say she had been named on the ESNZ Talent ID Squad, a fitting reward for her hard work.

Kelli says the most significant lessons she learned from Muzi were dedication and professionalism and how to train Thoroughbreds.

“Rain, hail or shine, you turn up and work the horses. She is so dedicated to her horses and the final results. She taught me a

lot about how to train Thoroughbreds and how to teach them to jump, different ideas and ways of helping horses to create shape with gridwork and poles.

“I also admired her professionalism. I remember at Adelaide, things didn’t quite go according to plan in the show jumping, and how she could put on a brave face and be professional in front of the camera was amazing.”

Being named in the Talent ID Squad changed Kelli’s plans somewhat, and after leaving Muzi in 2020, she began studying vet nursing online through Otago Polytechnic. She coupled her studies with her horses, but when Covid hit, the horses came to a grinding halt.

Above and right-hand page- HIDDEN GOLD (Lexi) is Kelli’s top horse now. She is is a rising 10-year-old by SP BLUE EYED GHOST out of LUXOR, bred by Jody Hartstone.

In 2021 she worked two part-time jobs, at a coffee shop and a flower shop, juggling those with her horses. “Again, I didn’t really have much direction, and I thought I’d just figure it out.”

Fate intervened in August 2021 when she had the opportunity to move to the Waikato for six months and work for Olympian Bundy Philpott, facilitated by Penny Pearce. The goal, specifically, was to work on Kelli’s show jumping – her weakest phase.

“I had the worst round of my life in the Three-Day when I was leading the 3*; it was definitely a low point. Penny said, ‘We need to fix your show jumping, and we’ll put you with one of the best show jumping event riders’. I was working a couple of jobs and not doing a whole heap.”

After lockdown, she packed up and headed north, staying until the beginning of February last year.

“Bundy helped my show jumping hugely, and she was really good for my little 3* horse Phoenician Zatalk (Todd). She’s very good with hot horses, she’s such a calm person, and all her

horses are calm! It was a fun time, and I think we only had eight horses in work between us. I didn’t feel like I was working for her; more working with her.

“She’s very laid back, very tidy. She did my show jumping a world of good; every day, she focused on me and my riding, which was really cool. It was good to see someone else and their system. Muzi did horses and had a job, while Bundy does horses full-time, so it was good to compare.”

Kelli moved back to Hawke’s Bay and worked in a racing stable, feeding and mucking out. She lasted a month before deciding it was time to give horses a proper crack and commit full-time.

As it turned out, 2022 was a somewhat disrupted year. First, Kelli broke her foot in April, ending plans to join Muzi for her first Badminton. She had the chance to groom at Melbourne Three-Day in June before finally travelling to the UK in August to groom for Muzi and Just Kidding (Ferg) at the World Equestrian Games in Italy, an eye-opening experience.

YOU ALWAYS HOPE FOR 5*, AND SHE’S GOT EVERYTHING GOING FOR HER – SHE’S BIG, SCOPEY, HUGE STRIDE, HAS STAMINA AND IS LOVELY ON THE FLAT.

“They were huge days; we were literally on our feet from dawn until dusk. Being there with Muzi was amazing; she trusted me completely with Ferg. She’s such a relaxed person that it felt cruisy, even though it was a huge event.”

Kelli says it was special to be part of the New Zealand team, seeing the dynamics and how they came together as a team and witnessing them win team bronze at the event.

“The horse health team was just phenomenal. Also, having Char Penny there grooming for Monica (Spencer) as we’re great friends. It’s good to have a familiar face, especially in times of heightened emotions due to lack of sleep!”

Travelling with the horses overnight when it was cooler was a new experience for Kelli, particularly the crazy hours. When they arrived at WEG, she’d had 1.5 hours of sleep. “Your alarm going off at 11.30 pm – to get up – is something I’d never experienced, but it was totally worth it.

“We were definitely fangirling the whole week, like seeing Laura Collett and London 52 and Michael Jung, all the big names. It’s pretty surreal after watching them on TV, seeing them walking around, and they’re just normal people.”

Kelli’s current team of horses are green, and her shortterm goals are stepping them up and progressing to the upper levels, with an eye to going 4* in the next few years.

“Long-term, the goals are 5*, Badminton - the usual –Olympics, Worlds, representing New Zealand is the dream. I’m not sure I’d ever want to jump around Burghley after walking that cross-country; it was terrifying! At the moment, I’m focused on producing the horses I have now to be winners. They’re very green and young.”

Kelli has a team of three this season, two of which she didn’t

even own eight months ago before losing her two top mounts.

Cassinette Xtreme (Prada), who she produced to 2* and 1.30m show jumping, was recently sold to Australia as a show jumper. “She was a bit ditchy and better suited to show jumping, which was gutting as she was pretty much my dream horse.”

Phoenician Zatalk (Todd), her 3* horse, has been semi-retired from upper-level competition after rehabbing from an injury, coming out again and sustaining another injury. He is currently fat and fluffy in the paddock.

It was back to the drawing board and time to rebuild.

Her top horse now is rising 10-year-old Hidden Gold (Lexi) by SP Blue Eyed Ghost out of Luxor, bred by Jody Hartstone. “She was a random buy from my farrier. He had her as a show jumper, and she was jumping 1m-1.10m. We were chatting one day, and he said he was thinking about selling. I went for a ride and went, ‘Oh, I actually quite like it’!”

Lexi’s first horse trials start was at 1.05m in March, and she jumped double clear. “She’s very different for me; I usually buy young horses and produce them myself from the start. I also usually have little horses, and she’s 16.3hh. She’s the first horse I’ve bought that had actually done stuff.”

Kelli plans to step Lexi up to 2* in spring and has high hopes she can go all the way to 4*. “You always hope for 5*, and she’s got everything going for her – she’s big, scopey, huge stride, has stamina and is lovely on the flat. I hope she will give me experience around the upper-level tracks. She’s exceptionally

Below - PIPPI (L) a mare by EUROSPORT CENTAVOS, bred by local friend Kate Hinton. She has been a late starter and completed one event last season. Right - HIDDEN GOLD (Lexi).

brave, and it’s nice to sit on something that gives you that confident feeling.”

She also has two rising six-year-olds. The first is Moir Appiel (Max), an off-the-track Thoroughbred by Pour Moi, purchased from Eventstars as a three-year-old. Max is at 95cm and will step up to 1.05m in the spring.

“He’s a little Thoroughbred and ticks all the boxes. It will just take time for him to mature. He’s that classic horse that pulls over buckets, and you can’t leave saddles or bridles near him; he nibbles everything – including people. But he’s got it all there.”

The final horse is Pippi, a mare by Eurosport Centavos, bred by local friend Kate Hinton. She has been a late starter and completed one event last season. “I’m ticking her over through winter. Hopefully, she’ll come out at 95cm and step up to 1.05m pretty quickly. She’s a bit quirky, but I think she’s a special mare.”

As well as the guidance of Muzi and Bundy, Kelli says she’s been fortunate to train with many amazing coaches through the squad programme, making particular mention of Penny Pearce. “I started training with her at 18 when I was working for Muzi, and she’s always someone I can go to. She has been fantastic for my riding.”

Blyth Tait is another who has been influential, although as he’s based in Auckland, it’s a bit more sporadic. “He’s been great for the mental side, and he makes you feel positive, confident and relaxed, which is so important.”

Aware that show jumping has been her Achilles heel, Kelli recently started training with Hawke’s Bay-based World Cup

show jumper Julie Davey. “I bought Lexi off her husband, so she knows the horse inside out. I’m well aware show jumping is something I need to keep on top of, and it’s really good to have a specialised coach. I’m sitting on some quality horses now, and I want to make sure I do a good job in that phase and do the horses justice.

“There’s no room for error now; you have to be finishing sub25 at the top level. It definitely shows how important the show jumping phase is, and you need to be sitting on a good show jumper.”

Kelli says it’s the challenge of the discipline that keeps her motivated. “Even through school, if something didn’t challenge me, it would bore me. Horses are a constant challenge, figuring out different horses and the answers to their questions – and questions for their answers! It’s so rewarding when you get an achievement, even a little one at home with the young ones.

“I love producing my own and love doing the young ones. No horse is the same. I think being with Muzi at 5* events and Worlds just made me want it more. Seeing that level, seeing people win, seeing the hardships people go through. I pictured myself going around the cross-country.

“The thing about cross-country is, it doesn’t have to be perfect. Cross-country riding is making it happen, getting out there, trusting our horse and getting the job done.”

Kelli is grateful to be sponsored by Banana Feeds Australia NZ, Perfect Plaits and Equus Elite NZ. n

Left -Kelli with her little buddies; Mac (left) and Frankie (R). Kelli riding CASSINETTE EXTREME, at Wairarapa Eventing 2022, before selling him to Australia.

S Our hopping guide

CAVALLO FAITH LIGHT WEIGHT JACKET

This soft shell jacket with a detachable hood has a two-way zip to make it easy to ride in. There are two side pockets and one back pocket, all with hidden zips. It is made from 100% recycled polyester and is available in navy. Sizes 10-16. $235.00. Call Sandi at Classic Equestrian for all your outfitting needs: www.classicequestrian.co.nz

CHILL ME

It is a calmer that also improves muscle function and is ideal for horses dealing with change and stressful situations to help them cope in a more relaxed and focused way. It is a non-drowsy formula containing NO Kava Kava and is perfect for travelling or where the horse must perform reliably. Able to be doubled on stressful occasions. Available in; 5kg, 1kg and 500g. Super great value at between $1.90 and $4.00 per dose. Availale at all good retailers or shop online at: www.eliteequine.co.nz

Must have!

WOOF WEAR MEDICAL BOOT

A close-fitting medical boot that keeps wounds, poultices and dressing clean. Reduces the amount of bandages needed. Available in sizes 0 to 9 depending on hoof width, 79mm to 166mm. They are sold individually. RRP $104.90. Visit your nearestretail store for more information, or visit: www.zilco.co.nz

Keep Warm!

CAVALLO EIREEN KNITTED HAT

Keep warm this winter and look stylish at the same time! The graduated lilac shades are interwoven with a glitter thread to add a subtle sparkle to the cold days and lined with fleece for extra warmth. RRP $50.00.

www.classicequestrian.co.nz

KIWI 1200 UNICORN PONY RUG SET 100G

This NEW UNICORN PRINT rug set is made with a 1200 denier ripstop, waterproof, and breathable outer. Fully lined, with shoulder gussets, belly surcingles, double front quick clips, removable leg straps, a large tail guard and reflective detailing. Available in sizes 3.3-4.6. $139.99. Also available in mini sizes (24”-39”) in 50g, 100g, and 200g! From $94.99. So all of your unicorns can match. Available in Saddlery Warehouse stores and online at: www.saddlerywarehouse.co.nz

COOPER ALLAN LYLA gloves have a Thinsulate lining, making them ideal for cooler weather. They have a suede palm and upper side with reflective piping. Black. Available in sizes Small to X-Large. $39.99. Available in Saddlery Warehouse stores and online at www.saddlerywarehouse.co.nz

DUBLIN FOUNDATION ZIP PADDOCK BOOTS II

New and improved design, made from full grain leather with an RCS footbed system for comfort and moisture control. Features a YKK zip and rubber outer sole designed for grip and stability. Available in Black & Brown in Childs, Ladies & Mens (Black only) sizes. Childs RRP $89.99, Ladies RRP $ 99.99, Mens RRP $109.99. www.dublinclothing.co.nz

CAVALLINO 3-IN-1 SPURS

These innovative spurs offer versatility with three interchangeable tips: Soft Touch, Straight, and Roller end.. Experience the perfect balance of lightweight design and customizable performance with Cavallino 3 in 1 Spurs. Colours: Black, Silver. RRP: $89.00 NZD. Visit your nearest retail store for more information, or visit - www.arionefv.co.nz to shop online.

WEATHERBEETA THERAPYTEC GEL ICE BOOTS

COLLEGIATE SYNTOVIA+ PADDED RAISED FLASH BRIDLE

Made from high quality non leather materials with a soft and supple luxurious feel that performs just like leather. Features stainless steel fittings and comes with rubber reins. Available in Black & Brown Sizes: Pony Warmblood. RRP $139.99. www.collegiatesaddlery.co.nz

Promotes healing and effectively prevents injuries by reducing inflammation. Designed to mold to your horse’s leg, the gel is sectioned into 24 separate pockets which allows for maximum comfort and surface contact with tendons and joints. The gel remains cold for a lengthy amount of time to allow for appropriate treatment period. RRP $99.99. www.weatherbeeta.co.nz

STANCE EQUITEC TURMERICLE

Turmericle is a unique powdered blend of well-researched herbs, including two varieties of turmeric and black pepper. Combined with powdered coconut oil, this easy-tofeed powder may assist with joint and skin health. Turmericle is a natural anti-inflammatory that is great for older horses and dogs. Available in 500g and 2kg. Available at Animal Health Direct. www.animalhealthdirect.co.nz

For more information visit our website to view our full range of health supplements.

www.stanceequitec.co.nz

S H E D D I N G B RU S H

Great for removing mud and old hair. Curved sides for comfort, easy to use. Available in three colours - Orange, Pink or Red. RRP $ 5.70 each. Visit your nearest retail store for more information, or visit: www.zilco.co.nz

KIWI 600D FLEECE LINED DOG PRINT COAT

This KIWI dog coat boasts a 600 denier waterproof and breathable outer, with a cosy fleece lining and reflective detail on both sides. Elastic straps to secure around legs. Adjustable Velcro attachments for the chest and belly. Available in sizes 12”-34”. $34.99. Available in Saddlery Warehouse stores and online at www.saddlerywarehouse.co.nz

MAXIA BALANCE combines vitamins and minerals in their most bio-available form to deliver a balanced formulation of micro-nutrients essential for your horse’s good health. Suitable for horses to address shortfalls in daily essential vitamins and minerals, which have many important roles to play in the body, from maintaining metabolism to building tissues and functions such as muscle contraction.

www.seahorsesupplements.co.nz

CAVALLINO QUICK RELEASE STIRRUPS

Made from premium aluminium and designed for ultimate safety. These stirrups feature a safety mechanism, releasing the foot from the stirrup iron in case of an emergency! Features a wide and ultra-grippy foot tread which helps maintain correct foot and leg position. Colours: Black, Silver. RRP $295.00. Visit your nearest retail store for more information, or visit - www.arionefv.co.nz to shop online.

BIO-BLOOM HF

It is a dual-action pelleted supplement designed to promote and maintain healthy hooves and skin from the inside out. Sound year-round nutrition is essential for hoof health. In the summer, hooves may become brittle and crumble, while in the winter, they may become soft or misshapen due to overexposure to moisture. In addition to environmental conditions, Bio-Bloom HF supports horses with damaged hooves due to recurrent abscesses, frequent shoeing, laminitis, thin soles, and other problems. Horses fed Bio-Bloom HF demonstrated a 23% increase in hoof growth compared to horses not fed Bio-Bloom HF.

www.ker.com

WEATHERBEETA THERAPYTEC GEL ICE BOOTS

Promotes healing and effectively prevents injuries by reducing inflammation. Designed to mold to your horse’s leg, the gel is sectioned into 24 separate pockets, allowing maximum comfort and surface contact with tendons and joints. The gel remains cold for a lengthy amount of time to allow for the appropriate treatment period. RRP $99.99.

www.weatherbeeta.co.nz

HEMABUILD

It is a vitamin B and trace mineral supplement for stressed horses or horses in heavy training. A concentrated blend of organic iron, copper, and vitamin B to boost red blood cell production, improve appetite, and coat darkening.

www.ker.com

SLOW FEEDER HAY BAG

This hay bag, made from waterproof vinyl back and a strong polypropylene webbing net, is designed to slow the horse’s feeding and prevent them from gorging. The 5cm x 5cm holes prevent large mouthfuls of hay from being pulled through. Extending the horse’s feeding time more closely reflects their natural grazing habits and is much more beneficial to the way their digestive systems are designed. RRP $136.90. Visit your nearest retail store for more information, or visit: www.zilco.co.nz

CAVALLINO ENDURO LONG BOOTS

The perfect winter boots! Handcrafted with a combination of Canvas panel and Nubuck Leather outer. With Puratex® Waterproof and breathable membrane, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable even during wet riding conditions. The elasticated side gusset, accompanied by a buckle, allows for easy adjustability, ensuring a personalized and secure fit. Sizes: 37 - 43. Colour: Brown. RRP $359.00. Visit your nearest retail store for more information, or visitwww.arionefv.co.nz to shop online.

ANTARÈS REFERENCE HELMET

Its timeless design combines with the comfort of a breathable helmet. Available in a 53 -56, 57 - 59 and 60 - 61 shell/liner size. Complies with new ESNZ and PC helmet safety standards. Certified to VG1, ASTM / SEI standards.

www.maddoxequestrain.co.nz

riding a stride FOCUS ON

In show jumping, riding a stride involves approaching, jumping, and landing over a fence in a smooth and balanced manner.

Here are some general steps to help you ride a stride in show jumping:

Approach

Establish a balanced and rhythmic canter as you approach the fence. Maintain a steady pace and ensure your horse is listening to your aids. Use your legs and seat to encourage impulsion and maintain a consistent rhythm.

Line and Distance

Assess the line and distance to the fence. The line refers to the path you need to follow to reach the jump, and the distance is the number of strides from the previous fence - or the beginning of the related distance - and the current fence. Study the course plan and walk the track to understand the distances and plan your approach accordingly.

Balance and Straightness

Ensure your horse is balanced and straight. Keep your weight centred and maintain a light contact on the reins. Use your legs and seat to keep your horse straight and aligned with the centre of the jump.

Timing

As you approach the take-off point, establish your line and prepare for the jump. Your timing is crucial. Maintain your canter rhythm and adjust your stride length to match the distance. Collect your horse’s stride slightly if the distance

requires an additional stride. If it requires a longer stride, encourage your horse to lengthen its stride.

Jumping Position

Adopt jumping position as your horse takes off - lighten your seat, close your hip angle, and bring your upper body slightly forward while keeping a straight line from your elbow to the bit. Keep your eyes up and focus on the next fence.

Stay Balanced

Maintain your balance throughout the jump. Avoid leaning or getting ahead of your horse. Allow your horse to use its neck and head freely over the fence.

Landing and Recovery

As your horse lands, absorb the impact by softening your knees and following the movement. Regain your balanced position and prepare for the next stride or combination.

Adjustments

Depending on the outcome of the jump, make any necessary adjustments for the next fence. Maintain your rhythm and balance, and focus on riding the course smoothly and efficiently.

WHY GRIDS?

Grids are used in training for show jumping to help riders and horses develop and improve their ability to find and maintain consistent strides between fences. Here are a few reasons why jump grids are beneficial for working on striding:

Developing Rhythm and Balance: Jump grids provide a structured exercise that encourages riders and horses to establish and maintain a consistent rhythm and balance. By working through a series of fences placed at specific distances, riders can focus on establishing a steady canter and maintaining a balanced position throughout.

Improving Horse’s Technique: Set up a line with varying distances between the fences, allowing horses to develop adjustability and improve their jumping technique. By encountering different striding options, horses learn to adjust their stride length and improve their bascule (arc) over the fences, resulting in a more efficient and careful jump.

Enhancing Rider’s Eye for Distances: Grids also help riders develop their eye for distances, which is crucial. By repeatedly riding through grids with predetermined striding, riders learn to assess and adjust their horse’s stride to meet the distances accurately.

Building Confidence: Jump grids are a controlled and progressive way to introduce horses and riders to various striding challenges. As riders and horses become more familiar with grids, they gain confidence in navigating different distances and develop trust in their abilities to jump accurately and comfortably.

Addressing Specific Training Needs: Jump grids can be customised to target specific training objectives. For example, setting up bounces (closely spaced fences with no strides in between) can help improve the horse’s reflexes and engagement of the hind end. Long-stride grids can encourage horses to open up their stride, while short-stride grids can improve collection and adjustability.

Remember, practising with an experienced instructor is invaluable for improving your riding technique and mastering the art of riding a stride in show jumping. They can provide personalised feedback and guidance to help you refine your skills. n

The ultimate guide

TO RUNNING AN EVENT

Organising a horse show involves many facets, and with every show you host, you gain valuable insights to enhance your future events and make them even more efficient. To assist this process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive to-do list that covers the essential elements of horse show planning. This guide provides a handy resource to streamline your preparations and ensure a top-notch event for all participants. Let’s go!

FORM AN ORGANISING COMMITTEE

The success of your show largely rests on the strength of your organising committee. A strong committee with a range of skills that works well together will ensure a well-run event that is enjoyable to everyone who attends. Generally speaking, a strong organising committee will consist of at least an event manager, secretary, stable manager, advertising/ publicity, sponsorship, and course designer/ judges coordinator/ writers convener (depending on discipline). You will also need to consider what crew you need on the day to help with the smooth running of the show - for example, ring stewards, announcers, gate attendants, scorers etc.

WHERE TO START?

Running a show can take up to 12 months of planning and organisation, and while knowing where to begin can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Formulating a plan and getting a group of good people to help will make it much easier!

WORDS - Ashleigh Kendall

OUR EVENT EXPERTS

PAXTON CONDER.

Has had a hand in running many successful shows, including World Cup level with the Waikato Show Jumping Group, and she thinks people are the most essential part of a successful show. “Running a show can be tiresome for volunteers; it is a mammoth task, and as the old saying goes, ‘many hands make light work’. Surround yourself with like-minded people you can rely on, and designate sub-committees within your organising committee so everyone is aware of their job and the workload is shared.”

TINA SARGEANT.

Currently involved with high-level showing events such as the National New Zealand Horse and Pony Show and previously, the Showing section at Horse of the Year, agrees.

“Most definitely, the most important factor to consider when running a show is your committee and venue—having a good group of people around you who share a common goal. It could be a fun ribbon day, a four-day high-level show or an equestrian market day; as long as you are sharing the load and all working towards the same goal, you will have a good time,” she says. “It would be so awesome to see more fresh faces helping next season! Even if you had a spare 15-20 minutes while your horse rests at the float, the organisers would love you for it!”

ANGELA NOBLIO.

Has immense experience running shows, most recently leading the Dressage Waikato team for their dressage festival. She adds, “A great team to help with planning, dreaming and executing is absolutely essential.” For those people not on committees, she loves to encourage them to step up and help out where they can. “Offering to help is always appreciated. An hour or two of your time can make all the difference to the event’s success! If you struggle to ride and volunteer at the same show, consider giving up some time to a show where you aren’t riding.”

EMMA

BUCKINGHAM.

Is the event organiser for Show Jumping Waitemata and emphasises the enjoyment you can gain from being part of an organising committee. “Seeing the riders achieving their goals and enjoying the event is a huge buzz. When you work with a great team, you become great friends, but getting enough help to make it happen can be one of the most challenging aspects of shows,” she says. “Local area groups that put on shows are predominantly run by volunteers who put in a huge number of hours to make it happen. Riders must do their bit in their local area to make these events happen. It’s hard to keep the sport affordable when we have to pay people for their help.”

KEY MILESTONES

n Establish a budget and location for your show - these two go hand in hand. Often the venue will be the most significant cost to the show, so deciding on a venue early on is essential to understand cost and entry fees.

n Develop a timeline of what needs to be completed. Be sure to meet regularly so you can receive and give feedback frequently on what has been done and what is yet to be completed, and nothing gets forgotten.

n Decide on a show date and the closing date for entries. This is a crucial part of organising and should be set early on to avoid clashes with other shows, ensure venue availability, and secure critical personnel.

n If applicable, ensure your event is compliant with ESNZ rules and regulations.

n Form an advertising plan.

n Put together a sponsorship proposal and approach sponsors.

n Obtain insurance and any licenses you require, for example, food.

n Decide what classes and prizes you will offer and the competitor fees.

CHOOSING THE VENUE.

If you don’t already have a venue in mind, it is essential to consider your requirements to run your show and then make a list of possibilities before organising to go and view them.

Tina stresses the importance of choosing the right venue. “It is so important to choose a venue with the facilities you need; it makes everything so much easier when it comes to setting up and packing down.” Another primary consideration for Tina is the state of the stables. “On the map provided to you by the venue, the stables often look all the same size, and it’s not until you get on-site that you see one stable might be much smaller than the others or one has a tap out the front which has leaked and a stable is in behind a massive puddle.”

“Doing the stabling for a show can be very tricky, but my hot tip is to ensure that before you publish your stabling, you go to the

n Order ribbons/ rosettes.

n Organise medical personnel, vet and farrier.

n Arrange for any food carts and, if needed, portable bathrooms to be on site.

n List essential equipment required - PA systems, radios, jumps/ arenas, poles, arena grooming, decorations, etc.

n Plan the arena layout, what classes will run and their timeslots.

n Organise accommodation and catering for judges and officials.

LAST MINUTE TASKS TO COMPLETE

n Ensure arena footing is groomed and in optimal condition.

n Put up any signs, decorations and sponsor banners.

n Prepare judges’ sheets and an area for judges and officials to have breaks.

n Assign tasks to volunteers. Creating a run sheet with key timings is a good idea so everyone is aware of expectations.

n Post results on social media pages.

grounds and check the stables. Ask yourself, ‘Would I be happy if my horse was in here?’”.

Angela thinks key considerations for show venues revolve around safety, surface and location. “Look at the risk register and health and safety plan. Consider the rules on-site, what areas and equipment can be used, whether there is good cell phone coverage/wifi, and what facilities are available. Do all-weather surfaces need to be mucked out, irrigated or harrowed during the event? How long will it take? Do breaks need to be scheduled?”

Paxton encourages organisers to ensure course builders are given the best possible ground and equipment when setting up arenas. “Last season’s weather has been detrimental to our sport, so make sure you are on site months in advance checking your grounds and monitoring ground conditions.”

SOME CONSIDERATIONS

DATES: Is the venue available?

COSTS: It is essential to consider the riders you are organising your show for, as that will determine how much they are willing to pay for entry fees. A premium show comes at a cost, and riders will expect to meet that cost.

FACILITIES: The show you plan to run will dictate what riders expect for their experience. If you run a high-level show, riders will expect good stabling and covered yards for their horses; if you run a one-day show catering for Pony Club or grassroots riders, this is less of a consideration and will reflect in the cost. When investigating venues, ensure you know what facilities will be available for your show.

TIME: Be sure to understand the period the venue hire is for, as that will determine when you can access the grounds for set up and when riders can arrive on site.

UTILITIES: What do you need, and what is available? Determine if you need to bring anything, for example, generators to provide power. Are there bathrooms on site, or do you need to organise portable toilets?

PARKING: Set up these areas and rope off anywhere you don’t want people to park. Make sure you have clear signage so people know where they can and can’t go.

VOLUNTEERS

Shows can only run with the support of the fantastic volunteers who put their time into running them. Treat them with the utmost care and respect to ensure they will be keen and motivated to help again.

n Make sure you match the abilities and skills of your volunteers with the assigned tasks.

n Provide them with updates and information ahead of the show.

n Ensure they have working equipment to do their tasks with ease.

n Make them feel appreciated. Set up a hospitality area to have their breaks and relax.

n Create incentives to encourage them to volunteer.

n Check in with them throughout the day and ensure they are well-fed and watered.

n Ask them for feedback after the event so you know what areas to improve next time.

n Reward them for their efforts; at the very least, send them thank you cards after the show.

ARENAS: Consider how many arenas you will need and where you can put them. Usually, venues will have an idea from previous shows, so they can help you plan. Another consideration is surface; for example, jumpers are often happy on the grass, whereas dressage riders usually expect to have a surface to compete on, especially at the higher levels.

TINA SAYS...

Something I have made sure of for both the Hawke’s Bay A & P Show and the New Zealand National Horse and Pony Show is to have some space between the arenas. It makes the rings so much more inviting for the horses and ponies, and it’s a great spot where your official photographers can go. Your rings look nice and clean, and your photographers can take great shots of more than one ring at a time.

EMMA SAYS...

The importance of a well-thought-out arena it critical. Most importantly, we aim to provide the best jumping surface and ensure rider and spectator safety.

SPONSORS

Like volunteers, sponsors are a crucial element of a successful show. Sponsorship comes in many forms; some sponsors offer money (usually a set amount depending on what packages you offer), and some will donate products.

ANGELA SAYS.....

There are a lot of sponsors who have a vested interest in the sport and are keen to be involved. When you approach individuals or local businesses to sponsor, make sure you have well-presented information, good communication, a clear outline of what they can expect – bang for their buck - and details of the event, things like how many riders and spectators expected. The most important thing after securing sponsorship is to look after your sponsors, keep them updated with how the event is tracking, and let them know about marketing opportunities before or during the event like social media promotions, trade stands and entertainment. Remind riders to thank them in person, by tagging them on social media, or by email following the event.

PAXTON SAYS.....

Organisers to be brave when approaching sponsors. Be early, and don’t undersell yourself! Remember that sponsors set a budget typically at the end of the financial year; if you are looking for a sponsor, particularly with a large sum attached, you need to be talking to them months before the event. If it is a new sponsor, I would recommend 12 months out. Sponsors are often asked for sponsorship, so think about your point of difference. Sponsorship is a two-way street; the sponsor needs a return on their investment too.

GRANTS FOR FUNDING:

“Make sure you give them everything they ask for when applying for a grant,” Angela says. “Trusts get so many incorrect or incomplete applications, and they get passed over. Give yourself enough time to apply, with the possibility of applying elsewhere if unsuccessful. If successful, thank them, tag them in social media and complete your auditthis will be recognised if you apply again next year.”

n Be sure to promote your sponsors at least the minimum amount of times outlined in your sponsorship proposal,

EMMA SAYS.....

Funding can make or break a show’s bottom line. Emma recommends including extra information, photos and a strategic plan when applying for grants. Make sure to tie it all into your application, especially your strategic plan. Answer all the questions and include all the required information.

but it is a good idea to go above and beyond that, especially your naming rights and return sponsors. Always follow through with what you have promised they will get for their support.

n Like volunteers, ensure they feel appreciated- invite them into your hospitality area and check on them throughout the show.

n Ask them for feedback; good and bad are both critical to running the event in the future.

n Once again, show your appreciation with a thank you note in the mail after the show.

DEALING WITH UNEXPECTED SURPRISES

There is an old saying in show business that ‘the show must go wrong’ as there are always unexpected things that you must deal with. The past few seasons have demonstrated that. Working around COVID restrictions and the bizarre weather New Zealand experienced last summer caused headaches for organising committees and riders everywhere.

Emma urges organisers to be prepared for the unexpected. “It pays to be flexible; running events always has its surprises,” she explains.

Angela adds, “Things hardly ever go to plan. Organisers must be prepared to roll with the punches and be open to change. I always say that a show is like an avalanche; once it has started, you will

AFTER THE SHOW:

n Send thank you cards to sponsors and volunteersremember to look after these critical people who play a massive part in the success of this show success (and the next one!)

n Finalise the statement of income and expenses, and be sure to include any successes or areas to improve for next time.

STAYING ORGANISED:

“Shared spreadsheets are my best friend!” Paxton laughs.

“Personally, I like to use Google Docs. You can share with your whole committee, and they can add where they are up to with their tasks. Tabs for officials, sponsors, budgets, timetables etc., are all so important! Another great way of coordinating is via group chats on Facebook. Emails are great, but messaging is an instant way to keep in touch with your committee.” Tina is also a fan of a massive spreadsheet and duplicates it each year to make things easier. She also urges committees not to overwhelm a few people with many tasks.

Emma and Angela tackle their organisation with lists; writing everything down and keeping on top of emails is key!

REAP THE REWARDS:

Phew! It sounds daunting and like a lot of work, but being involved in the running of shows offers enormous rewards to organisers.

“Giving back to the sport is so important,” says Paxton. “Without volunteers, we simply wouldn’t have a sport, so to see competitors, sponsors, and spectators all come together and enjoy an event is extremely rewarding. I will never forget stepping back and looking at the crowd we had to watch the World Cup at Takapoto for our Waikato Show Jumping Group. It was incredible to see people standing three abreast around the arena enjoying the event we had created!”

Tina feels a real thrill the night before showtime. “I love looking out over the arenas to a picture-perfect oval, horses being washed, trucks everywhere with excited kids playing, and parents busy feeding up,” she reflects. “You are normally so tired but still excited for the next few days ahead. I also love spending time with my fun committee, watching the smiling competitors doing what they love, catching up with friends, and learning

never stop it, so go with it. Bonus points for doing it with a smile!” Paxton recommends leaning on your officials in trying times. “The president of the Ground Jury, Technical Delegates and other experienced officials are all trained in problem-solving and have often previously overcome something similar to what you may be dealing with.” Tina builds on this advice, “Stay calm and be transparent with your committee, competitors, judges and stewards. Sometimes things don’t go to plan, but your ability to pivot and communicate changes to everyone involved - judges, stewards and competitors alike - is critical. People usually understand if they know your reasons behind a change or surprise.

from the judges. Seeing exciting, beautiful young horses starting their careers is amazing.”

“Events are exciting!” Angela exclaims. “Surprising riders with cool ideas you can bring to fruition, celebrating success, and the camaraderie - it’s all amazing. Creating experiences for people and being part of our amazing sport is what it is all about.”

Planning ahead, assembling a dedicated team, staying organised, and putting in the hard work are all essential ingredients for running a successful event. The rewards are worth it in so many ways. Organising a horse show creates a platform for horses and riders to come together and enjoy themselves in a competitive yet enjoyable environment. Whether it’s the exhilaration of victory, the enriching experience, the desire to gauge one’s skills against others, or simply the sheer joy of participation, there are countless reasons why riders choose to take part. So get ready to create an experience that brings all involved satisfaction, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments! n

Utilising the

OFF-SEASON

For equestrians, the off-season presents opportunities - to take a break, gain perspective, reflect on the previous season, build mental and physical strength outside of the arena, and set strategic goals for the season ahead. We have asked leading equestrian experts for their advice on maximising the off-season. This advice is actionable, allowing riders to implement practices that will help you and your horse have the best season yet.

WORDS - Jamie Halpin

MAIN IMAGE - Michelle Clarke Photography

OUR EXPERTS:

GRETEL WEBBER

Equine Nutritionist at Dunstan Horse Feeds

Gretel completed her Masters in Equine Science. The learnings from her thesis, ‘The impact of high-starch diets on equine physiology and behaviour’ has been invaluable in assisting horse owners with managing both their horse’s health and performance. Gretel is well-known in the New Zealand equestrian community for her extensive expertise in equine nutrition. With more than 20 years of experience in the equine feed industry, Gretel offers essential insights into equine nutrition applicable to all levels of riding.

JASON YUILL PROCTOR

PG Dip. MSc. BA (Hons).

BSc. Psychology

Sport & Performance Psychologist at People Performance

Jason is experienced in working with teams and individuals to support the mental aspects of their performance, from focus and motivation in training, to developing the skills to manage the psychological resilience to perform under pressure in competition. From his work with athletes, from ambitious amateurs to World and Olympic Champions, he understands the demands and skills required for optimal performance.

Sports Performance Coach - Master in Sport Psychology

Sarah has extensive knowledge spanning Show Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing as a competitor and breeder, coupled with an in-depth appreciation of the demands at all levels of riding, from beginners to professional riders. She focuses on the routines and habits that build confidence and instil resilience as an equestrian.

BvetMed BSc (Hons1)

DVClinScDipl ACVSMR

Equine Vet at Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre

Georgina graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in London before interning at Randwick Equine Veterinary Centre, Sydney. She completed an honours thesis and doctoral thesis and undertook intensive specialist training in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. With a particular interest in the causes of poor performance, lameness investigation, cardiology, and diagnostic imaging, she has a plethora of knowledge and actionable advice.

BRITTA PEDERSEN

Equestrian

Personal Trainer & Physiotherapist at The Performance Refinery

Britta specialises in the bio-mechanics, stability and postural strengthening of equestrian athletes. As a previous highperformance athlete, she understands the demands of riding on the body, and the requirement that for success and longevity, the body must be effective and reliable. Her work provides essential knowledge of how riders can prepare their bodies for success in the saddle.

DR GEORGINA JOHNSTON

SARAH MILNE

FOR THE RIDER:

HOW CAN RIDERS UTILISE THE OFFSEASON TO PREPARE THEMSELVES FOR THE NEW SEASON?

JASON:

The off-season is a great opportunity to reflect on the previous season - to acknowledge the progress that has been made and the knowledge and skills that have been developed. It is important to recognise progression rather than the number of competition wins. This increases self-confidence and inspires motivation for further development.

Reflection offers the opportunity to identify the next steps - for some, that may be utilising the off-season to take a break, recharge, and refresh; for others, there may be an opportunity to access further coaching to upskill before the new season.

BRITTA:

Utilising the off-season to focus on conditioning yourself as a rider will provide you with a huge competitive edge for the upcoming season. Set goals! Formulating a performance plan can be difficult if you have yet to identify areas where you need to focus and improve. Sit down and reflect. What are your areas of weakness? Weaknesses out of the saddle directly correlate with weaknesses in the saddle. For example, if you fall forward when landing after a jump, you need to work on deceleration core strength. If you are losing your right leg connection during shoulder-in, you need to focus on adductor strength of the right leg. Identifying your weaknesses in the saddle will allow you to strengthen your overall rider performance.

PLANNING FOR SUCCESS: SARAH:

1. Set clear and specific goals for each ride: What do you want to achieve? It could be improving your technique, increasing confidence, or mastering a particular skill.

2. Develop a training plan: Outline what you need to work on during each ride to achieve these goals; break them down into smaller manageable steps.

3. Visualise success: Mental rehearsal of preparation through to execution can help enhance focus, confidence, and overall performance. .

JASON:

Set performance-based goals at the start of the season, such as improving your dressage score, getting closer to jumping clear and to the time on cross-country, or reducing the number of show jumping faults. By breaking these down into achievable steps, you can monitor your progress and ensure you are on track to achieving your goals.

The off-season offers the opportunity to focus on psychological training, to further your ability to manage pressure and increase your ability to focus. Take time away from riding to get to know yourself better and reframe your identity from a ‘good rider’ to ‘a person who rides and is good at it’. This will help diminish the pressure to perform, as your performance will no longer be a reflection of you as a rider but rather a reflection of what happens on the day.

BRITTA:

Focusing on the core is my number one! This will aid in developing an aligned posture with a normal spine and pelvis position. This creates an optimal base for efficient muscle usage and aids in protecting the body against the risks of ridingbased injury. However, keeping your training fun and aligned with your goals is essential. Write a checklist of areas to focus on, and ensure you don’t miss more than two personal training sessions in a row. This enables you to form positive training habits that will help you stick to your plan.

Jason Yuill Proctor

HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOURSELF WHEN RIDES DON’T GO TO YOUR PLAN: SARAH:

When a ride doesn’t go as planned, it can be frustrating and disappointing. Here are my tips on how to deal with these feelings.

1. Maintain perspective: remind yourself that setbacks are a normal part of riding.

2. Embrace a growth mindset: can you reshape these challenges into an opportunity to learn?

3. Reflect and analyse: identify both the positive components and the areas where improvement is needed.

4. Seek support: reach out to your coach, fellow riders, or a mentor - you are not alone.

5. Practise self-compassion and reframe negative thoughts: understand that mistakes and setbacks happen to everyone. Be kind to yourself.

6. Revisit your goals and performance plan: this will help you reflect on your progress or make adjustments where necessary.

JASON:

Remember: Success is about delivering what we are capable of on the day, learning from our performances so that we can do better tomorrow. Creating comparisons is natural; try to recognise when this is happening and refocus on what matters most - your individual journey and progress over time.

Rider training is about focusing on weaknesses personal to you and your horse. There isn’t a cookie-cutter approach to training; no one size fits all. Weaknesses will show up in different ways throughout your riding. Try identifying the areas that are specific to your ride. Good indicators of this are:

• Finding it difficult to maintain good posture in the saddle, cue effectively with your aids, or stay balanced.

• Reflect on this and create a plan accordingly.

Britta Pedersen

FOR THE HORSE:

Starting the season with a healthy horse that is painfree in its work will maximise your performance throughout the competition season. Here are GEORGINA’S recommendations for ensuring your horses are in peak condition coming into the season:

1. Vetting: the beginning of the season is an ideal time for a routine assessment of soundness, teeth, overall health and body condition.

2. Farrier: ensure your horses’ feet are well-balanced and consider shoeing depending on the requirements and their workload.

3. Saddle fitting: lost muscle mass or condition over winter can change the shape of your horse’s back. Routine checks help prevent back pain and poor performance.

4. Diet: tailor your horses’ feeds to their increasing energy requirements. This will depend on their exercise intensity.

5. Adequate Rest and Recovery: Allow your horse sufficient time for rest and recovery. Proper rest periods are crucial for muscle repair, mental rejuvenation, and overall well-being. Provide adequate turnout time in a safe and spacious area, allowing your horse to socialise, move freely, and relax.

6. Mental Stimulation: Keep your horse mentally stimulated to prevent boredom and maintain their enthusiasm for training and work. Incorporate activities such as hacking or new training exercises to challenge their minds. Regular turnout and social interaction with other horses also contribute to mental well-being.

7. Body Condition Monitoring: Regularly assess your horse’s body condition and adjust diet and exercise regimen accordingly. Aim for a healthy weight and muscle tone, and ensure your horse’s overall condition is appropriate for their discipline.

8. Grooming and General Care: Regular grooming keeps your horse looking their best and allows you to check for any skin issues, injuries, or abnormalities. Maintain good hygiene, clean tack and equipment, and provide appropriate rugs or protective gear when necessary.

9. Stress Management: Minimise stress in your horse’s environment and routine. Establish a consistent schedule, provide a safe and comfortable living environment, and gradually introduce new experiences or changes to avoid overwhelming your horse.

HOW CAN WE ENSURE OUR HORSES ARE FEELING THEIR BEST NUTRITIONALLY AND PHYSICALLY COMING INTO THE SEASON?

GRETEL:

Preparation is key. Regularly monitoring their condition throughout the winter will enable you to ensure they are in optimal body condition coming into the season. Ensure they are getting their daily fibre requirements: Horses require a minimum of 1.5% of their bodyweight in hay, chaff, beet or pasture daily on a dry matter basis. This supports a healthy digestive system - both gastric and hindgut health. When pasture is abundant, horses that live out will, in most instances, meet this daily requirement from grazing alone, however during winter, when pasture may be scarce and waterlogged, it will be vital that horses have this shortfall met via alternative forage sources, including hay, haylage, chaffs and beets.

GEORGINA:

Base fitness requirements are similar between disciplines. Ensure your horse has built good strength and mobility before starting discipline-specific exercises such as advanced dressage movements or jumping. This is key to keeping your horse injury-free and maximising career longevity.

Always warm-up and cool down in the walk for at least 10 minutes at the start and end of every ride. This helps to pre-load joints and soft tissues, reducing injury risk.

Dynamic mobilisation exercises (4-5x per week) after work, such as carrot stretches and hindlimb stretches, can have big advantages in maintaining and improving mobility and comfort.

ADAPTATIONS TO CONSIDER WHEN INCREASING WORKLOAD COMING INTO THE SEASON:

GRETEL:

A horse’s body condition is the primary consideration when determining if changes are required to supplementary feed. It is a simple equation of calories in and calories out. If calorie expenditure exceeds calorie input, horses will lose weight; if calorie input exceeds caloric output, horses will carry excess condition. Horses that are working are expending more calories and, therefore, will need these replaced by an increase in supplementary feed (unless they are overweight to start, and then they will be closer to reaching their ideal body condition!). As the season progresses, workloads are likely to increase; therefore, additional supplementary feed will, in most instances, be required. However, the role pasture plays for horses that live out cannot be underestimated. Pasture quality and availability will vary depending on the season and may often fill that ‘calorie’ gap that results from increasing work.

GEORGINA:

Gradually increasing exercise load and intensity with a progressive training regime is essential to reduce injury risk and maximise fitness. Depending on how long the horse has been off and what fitness level is needed, the process can take two to four months. Be careful not to overwork the horse too soon – this is when injuries can occur. Ensure your horse has a good fitness base – start with three to four weeks of walking, then gradually add trot, progressively increasing work time. Give your horse a day or two off each week for recovery. Cross-training can also be beneficial in building strength and adaptation.

Gradually add complexity to your horse’s workload. This can include working on different surfaces (grass, arena, road, sand) and progressively adding hill work (inclines, declines). Implementing ground pole work and cavaletti at walk and trot improves core and hindquarter stability and strength.

Overall, create a plan and have fun with it! If you are interested in your training regime then your horse will be too. Don’t forget that every horse is unique, and their individual needs may vary. Work closely with your veterinarian, farrier, and equine professionals to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your horse’s specific requirements. By providing consistent care, training, and attention, you can keep your horse in top condition for the next season. n

Dr Georgina Johnston

If your horse is not already on a supplementary feed, introduce it slowly.

CARING FOR OUR OLDER HORSES

The bond between humans and horses is a testament to the strength and beauty of our interconnectedness with the animal kingdom. Historically, horses have been our loyal companions, steadfast partners in work and play. As these magnificent creatures age, we must ensure their twilight years are filled with love, care, and compassion. In this editorial, we delve into the significance of caring for older horses, recognising their invaluable contributions and the importance of providing them with a dignified retirement.

Recognising the Value of Older Horses:

Older horses have dedicated their lives to serving our needs in equestrian sports, recreational riding, or as trusted companions. These equine veterans possess a wealth of experience, knowledge, and wisdom that should not be underestimated. The lessons they’ve taught us, the challenges they’ve helped us overcome, and the joy they’ve brought us are immeasurable. It is only fitting to reciprocate their unwavering devotion with the best care possible in their golden years.

Tailoring Care to Suit Individual Needs:

As horses age, their needs change. Just like humans, they may experience physical and mental challenges associated with old age, such as arthritis, dental problems, weight management issues, or reduced mobility. It is crucial that horse owners, caregivers, and equestrian professionals understand these changes and adapt care routines accordingly. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, suitable exercise, and a comfortable living environment are critical elements in maintaining the well-being of older equines.

Emphasising Proper Nutrition and Specialised Diets:

Proper nutrition is paramount to ensuring the vitality of older horses. Ageing bodies require carefully balanced diets that meet their specific dietary needs. Adjust for reduced dental function, which can make chewing more challenging. Owners should consider feeding their horses softer forage options or soaked feeds to aid digestion. Regular dental care, including routine teeth floating, is vital to maintaining the ability to chew and process food effectively. Equine nutritionists and veterinarians can provide guidance on formulating diets tailored to individual horses’ requirements.

Providing Suitable Exercise and Mental Stimulation:

While it is essential to adapt exercise routines to accommodate older horses’ physical capabilities, it is equally important to keep them mentally stimulated. Light exercise, such as gentle hacking or turnout in safe paddocks, can help maintain muscle tone, joint flexibility, and overall well-being. Additionally, mental stimulation through companionship, interaction, and engagement in activities like groundwork or simple training exercises can promote a sense of purpose and prevent boredom.

Creating a Comfortable Living Environment:

Older horses deserve a retirement that allows them to live out their days in comfort and safety. Providing adequate shelter from harsh weather conditions, ensuring access to fresh water at all times, and creating an environment that minimises the risk of accidents or injuries are crucial considerations. Soft bedding, such as straw or rubber mats, can help alleviate joint pain and provide additional comfort. Regular grooming, hoof care, and attention to overall well-being contribute to a horse’s quality of life in their senior years.

Be sure to allow the senior horse an undisturbed location in which to consume their feed and allow extra time for them to eat.

Reduced activity may also lead to a decrease in appetite as the older horse reduces its energy expenditure.

DAILY CHECKS:

Daily checks on older horses are essential to monitor their health, identify any potential issues or changes, and provide timely care and intervention. Here are some critical tasks to include in your daily checks for older horses:

General Observation:

Take a few moments each day to observe your older horse’s overall appearance, behaviour, and attitude. Look for any signs of discomfort, pain, or changes in behaviour that may indicate an underlying health issue. Note their alertness, appetite, and interaction with other horses or their environment.

Physical Examination:

Perform a brief physical examination to check for abnormalities or signs of injury. Run your hands over your horse’s body, feeling for any lumps, bumps, heat, or swelling. Please consider their legs, joints, hooves, and coat condition. Inspect their eyes, nose, and mouth for any discharge, sores, or signs of dental problems. Check for any signs of skin issues, such as rashes, lesions, or excessive itching.

Mobility and Lameness:

Observe your horse’s movement and assess its mobility. Look for signs of lameness, stiffness, difficulty walking, trotting, or turning. Monitor their gait and posture, paying attention to any changes or unevenness. Older horses may be more prone to arthritis or joint issues, so detecting any mobility changes early on is crucial.

Faecal Output and Urination:

Check your horse’s manure and urine output. Ensure that manure is well-formed and consistent in appearance. Changes in faecal consistency, colour, or frequency can signify digestive issues or other health concerns. Monitor their urination to ensure expected frequency and volume.

Social Behaviour:

Observe how your older horse interacts with others in their herd or environment. Look for any signs of social exclusion, aggression, or withdrawal. Older horses may become more vulnerable to bullying or prefer to spend more time alone, so ensuring their safety and well-being within their social dynamic is essential.

Appetite and Water Consumption:

Monitor your horse’s appetite and water intake. Observe eating habits and ensure they are consuming their regular feed ration. Any sudden changes in appetite can be an indicator of underlying health problems. Additionally, check the water source to ensure it is clean, unfrozen, and easily accessible. Encourage adequate hydration, as older horses may have a higher risk of dehydration.

Medication and Treatment:

If your older horse requires medications, supplements, or treatments, administer them as prescribed. Check for any changes in medication requirements or dosages based on their condition or any instructions provided by your veterinarian.

Record-Keeping:

Maintain a daily record of your observations, any changes noticed, and any actions taken. This information can be valuable when discussing your horse’s health with your veterinarian or tracking trends or patterns in their well-being over time.

Herd or pasture bullying can wreak havoc on horses, but especially seniors. Make sure their paddock mates are compatible.

At least twice a week (weather permitting) remove rugs and check your senior’s mobility has not changed.

NUTRITION

Appropriate hay and feed access for older horses is crucial for their nutritional needs, digestive health, and overall well-being.

However, safety considerations should also be taken into account to ensure their safety while consuming hay. Here are some guidelines for hay access and safety for older horses:

Adequate Hay Supply:

Ensure your older horse has a consistent and ample supply of good-quality hay. Older horses may have dental issues or reduced chewing efficiency, so providing softer or more easily hay or forage (do not buy stalky hay!), such as balage, can be beneficial. Monitor their hay intake to ensure they consume an appropriate amount based on age, weight, and activity level.

Senior Feeds:

Senior feeds are specifically formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of older horses. They are often designed to be easily digestible and contain a balanced blend of protein, fibre, fat, and essential vitamins and minerals. These feeds are typically higher in fibre and lower in starch and sugar content, making them suitable for horses with dental issues or metabolic conditions.

Protein Quality:

As horses age, they may experience muscle loss and reduced protein utilisation. Look for a hard feed with high-quality protein sources, such as soybean or lucerne. Adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, immune function, and overall health in older horses.

Digestible Energy:

Older horses may have a decreased ability to digest and absorb nutrients efficiently. Select a hard feed that offers easily digestible energy sources, such as vegetable oils or soaked sugarbeet. These ingredients can provide additional calories without relying heavily on starch and sugar.

Essential Fatty Acids:

Including a source of essential fatty acids, such as flaxseed or fish oil, can benefit older horses. These fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat, support joint health, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Added Supplements:

Consider the specific needs of your older horse when choosing a hard feed. Some older horses may benefit from added supplements, such as joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin or vitamin and mineral supplements to support overall health. Consult your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist to determine if additional supplements are necessary.

Feeding Location:

Choose a safe and well-ventilated feeding location for your older horse’s hay. Avoid areas with hazards such as sharp objects, loose wires, or uneven flooring that may pose a risk of injury. If possible, provide a designated feeding area or use hay feeders that prevent hay from being scattered or trampled, reducing the risk of ingesting dirt or contaminants.

Height Considerations:

Consider the height of the hay feeders or racks to promote a natural feeding posture for your older horse. The ideal height allows them to lower their head comfortably without straining their neck or back. This helps promote proper digestion and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal issues.

Social Dynamics:

Consider the social dynamics of your horse’s herd when providing hay access. Some older horses may be more vulnerable to competition or bullying from younger, more dominant horses. Separate horses during feeding time to ensure each horse has fair access to hay and minimise stress or potential injuries.

Supervision and Monitoring:

Keep a close eye on your older horse while they are consuming hay, especially if they have dental issues or are prone to choking. Monitor for any signs of difficulty in chewing or swallowing, coughing, or other signs of respiratory distress. If you notice any concerns, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and guidance.

Older horses should continue to have a regular worming programme. There is some evidence to suggest that older horses, especially those with Equine Cushings Disease (PPID) have reduced resistance to worms.

Strategic Deworming:

Strategic worming involves targeting specific parasites at certain times of the year. This approach helps reduce the overuse of wormers and slows down the development of resistance in parasites. Your veterinarian can guide you on the appropriate timing and choice of wormers based on the regional parasite prevalence and the specific needs of your older horse.

Considerations for Seniors:

As horses age, their immune systems may weaken, making them more susceptible to parasite-related health issues. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a vigilant approach to parasite control. Older horses may require more frequent monitoring, faecal testing, and worming than younger horses. Additionally, consider the overall health status and any specific conditions your horse may have, as certain medications or health issues can impact the choice of wormer or treatment protocols.

Pasture Management:

WORMING:

Worming is essential to equine healthcare, regardless of a horse’s age. However, older horses may have different needs and considerations regarding worming protocols. Here are some key factors to consider when worming older horses:

Consultation with the Experts:

Develop a worming program tailored to your older horse’s specific needs. They can assess your horse’s overall health, conduct faecal egg counts (FEC), and provide guidance on the most appropriate wormers and treatment intervals. Regular communication with your veterinarian is crucial to ensuring effective parasite control while considering the age and condition of your horse.

Faecal Egg Counts (FECs):

FECs are tests that determine the number of parasite eggs present in a horse’s faeces. For older horses, performing regular FECs can help gauge the level of parasite infestation and determine if worming is necessary. Older horses may have developed natural immunity to certain parasites over time, making them less susceptible to infection. By conducting FECs, you can avoid unnecessary worming and minimise the risk of developing resistance to wormers.

Practising good pasture management can help reduce the risk of parasite transmission. Regular removal of manure from pastures, rotational grazing, and resting pastures periodically can help break the parasite life cycle and minimise the risk of re-infection. Consult with your veterinarian or equine specialist for specific recommendations on pasture management practices for older horses. Remember, worming protocols should be customised based on your older horse’s individual needs and in consultation with your veterinarian. Regular faecal testing, strategic worming, and appropriate pasture management are crucial components of a comprehensive parasite control program. By taking a proactive approach to worming, you can help protect the health and well-being of your older horse and mitigate the risks associated with parasitic infestation.

DENTAL ROUTINE

Dental health is paramount for horses of all ages, but it becomes even more crucial as they age. Like humans, older horses can experience dental issues that may affect their ability to eat, digest food properly, and maintain overall health. Establishing a regular dental routine for older horses is essential to ensure their comfort, well-being, and longevity. Here are some key considerations:

Regular Dental Examinations:

Schedule regular dental examinations for your older horse with a qualified equine dentist or veterinarian experienced in equine dentistry. Ideally, dental check-ups should occur at least once a year, although some horses may require more frequent visits depending on their specific needs and dental history. These professionals will assess your horse’s teeth, identify issues, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Monitoring Dental Health:

In addition to regular professional dental examinations, horse owners should monitor their horses’ dental health between visits. Look for signs of dental issues, such as dropping food, difficulty chewing, weight loss, excessive salivation, foul breath, or facial or jaw swelling. If you notice any abnormalities or changes in your horse’s eating habits or behaviour, contact your veterinarian or equine dentist promptly.

Proper Nutrition:

Maintaining a balanced and appropriate diet is crucial for the dental health of older horses. Provide your horse with high-quality forage, such as hay or pasture, which promotes natural chewing and saliva production. If necessary, soak the forage or offer alternative options like balage to make it easier for horses with dental issues to consume. Please consult an equine nutritionist to ensure your horse’s diet meets nutritional requirements and is suitable for its dental condition.

Between Examinations:

Between dental examinations, there are some additional measures you can take to support your older horse’s dental health. Regularly check your horse’s mouth for any signs of discomfort, sores, or abnormalities. Gently clean around the teeth and gums using a soft cloth or equine-specific dental wipes. This can help remove any food particles or debris that may cause irritation or infection. Always use caution and ensure your horse is comfortable with this process.

Collaboration with Professionals:

Establish a collaborative relationship with your equine dentist, veterinarian, and other equine healthcare professionals. They can guide dental care techniques, answer questions, and recommend additional treatments or procedures if necessary. Collaborating with these experts will ensure that your horse’s dental needs are met effectively and comprehensively.

Every horse is unique, and their dental care requirements may vary. Regular dental examinations, professional care, and a proactive approach to dental health are vital to maintaining your older horse’s comfort, nutrition, and overall well-being. By prioritising their dental needs, you can help them enjoy a healthy and happy life in their senior years.

The classic signs of dental disease in horses include difficulty or slowness in feeding and a reluctance to drink cold water. While chewing, the horse may stop for a few moments and then start again. Sometimes, the horse will hold its head to one side as if it is in pain.

FARRIER WORK

Farrier work is crucial in maintaining horses’ overall health and well-being, especially for older horses. As horses age, their hooves can undergo various changes, requiring specialised attention from a skilled farrier. Here are some important considerations regarding farrier work for older horses:

Regular Farrier Visits:

Older horses should continue receiving regular farrier visits like their younger counterparts. Aim for a schedule that aligns with your farrier’s recommendations and considers your horse’s specific hoof needs. Typically, a six to eight-week interval between visits is appropriate for most horses, but this may vary based on individual factors.

Specialised Shoeing Options:

Older horses may benefit from specialised shoeing options tailored to their specific needs. For example, therapeutic shoes or pads can provide additional support, cushioning, and comfort for horses with arthritis, lameness, or hoof sensitivity. These options can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall well-being of older horses.

Hoof Care and Maintenance:

In addition to farrier visits, it’s crucial to maintain good hoof care practices between appointments. Regularly clean your horse’s hooves to remove debris and check for any signs of thrush, infections, or other hoof-related issues. Maintain a clean and dry environment to help prevent hoof problems, such as bacterial or fungal infections.

Communication with the Farrier:

Effective communication with your farrier is key, especially when dealing with older horses. Discuss any specific concerns, changes in your horse’s hoof condition, or signs of discomfort you may have noticed. Your farrier can provide valuable insights, offer advice, and adjust the hoof care approach to accommodate your older horse’s changing needs.

Diet and Nutritional Considerations:

It goes without saying that a balanced diet plays a vital role in maintaining healthy hooves. Ensure that your older horse receives appropriate nutrition, including essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, which contribute to hoof strength and integrity. Consult an equine nutritionist or veterinarian to ensure your horse’s diet supports optimal hoof health.

By prioritising regular farrier visits, specialised shoeing options if needed, open communication, and collaboration with both the farrier, you can ensure that your older horse receives the necessary hoof care to maintain their comfort, mobility, and overall well-being. Proper hoof care is an integral part of equine health, regardless of age, and it contributes significantly to the longevity and quality of life of older horses.

Should I have my horse go barefoot?

A barefoot approach to farrier work for older horses can be a suitable option for some individuals. Barefoot trimming focuses on maintaining the natural shape and function of the hoof, allowing for optimal hoof health and function. Here are some considerations when considering barefoot farrier work for older horses.

Individual Hoof Health:

Before transitioning to a barefoot approach, assessing the current health and condition of your older horse’s hooves is crucial. If the hooves are healthy, strong, and have a good sole thickness, they may be suitable for a barefoot approach. However, if your horse has pre-existing hoof issues, such as thin soles, weak walls, or lameness, consulting with an experienced barefoot farrier or veterinarian is essential to determine the suitability and feasibility of the barefoot approach.

Gradual Transition:

Transitioning an older horse to a barefoot approach should allow their hooves to gradually adapt to the new conditions. Abrupt changes can cause discomfort or lameness. Work closely with a knowledgeable barefoot farrier to develop a transition plan that considers your horse’s needs and allows for proper adaptation.

Remember, prevention is key to managing thrush in older horses. Maintaining good hoof hygiene, regular hoof cleaning, and providing a clean and dry environment can help prevent the development of thrush.

WINTER WARMTH

Winter brings cold temperatures, harsh winds, and challenging conditions for horses of all ages. However, older horses require extra care and attention to keep them warm and comfortable during the colder months. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of keeping older horses warm in winter:

Maintaining Body Condition:

Older horses often have reduced muscle tone and body fat compared to their younger counterparts, making them more susceptible to the cold. It is crucial to help them maintain a healthy body condition, as proper insulation from body fat aids in keeping them warm. Providing adequate shelter, suitable covers or rugs, and proper nutrition are essential to help older horses maintain their body heat during winter.

Supporting Joint Health:

Cold temperatures can exacerbate joint stiffness and arthritis, which are common issues among older horses. Keeping them warm helps improve blood circulation and minimises discomfort in their joints. Providing well-insulated shelters, bedding, and covers or rugs can contribute to their comfort and alleviate any pain associated with cold-induced stiffness.

Preventing Hypothermia:

Older horses are more susceptible to hypothermia, a condition where the body loses heat faster than it can be produced. Hypothermia can lead to serious health complications if not addressed promptly. By providing proper shelter, ensuring access to clean and dry bedding, and using appropriate blankets or coats, you can help prevent the onset of hypothermia in older horses.

Immune function:

Cold weather can stress the immune system, weakening its response and making horses more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This is particularly important for older horses, as their immune systems may not be as robust as they once were. Keeping them warm and minimising exposure to extreme cold can help support their immune function and reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses or other weatherrelated health issues.

Overall Comfort:

Just like humans, older horses appreciate and benefit from a comfortable environment. Exposure to harsh winter conditions can lead to stress, discomfort, and a decrease in overall well-being. By providing appropriate shelter, protection from wind and moisture, and ensuring they have adequate warmth, you enhance their comfort and help maintain their quality of life during winter.

Hydration Considerations:

In colder weather, horses may drink less water, increasing the risk of dehydration. Older horses are especially prone to dehydration and may have specific health conditions exacerbating this risk. Ensure your horse can access fresh, unfrozen water in a trough or buckets. Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for overall health and helps regulate body temperature.

CONCLUSION:

Caring for older horses during winter requires extra attention and consideration. By providing them with suitable shelter, covers or rugs, proper nutrition, and access to unfrozen water, you can help protect them from the cold, support their joint health, prevent hypothermia, promote immune function, and enhance their overall comfort. Remember, older horses have given us their loyalty and companionship, and we are responsible for ensuring they receive the care and warmth they need to thrive in the winter months. n