2 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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ToTofind findaaPurina Purinadealer dealernear nearyou, you,visit: visit: horse.purinamills.com horse.purinamills.com Steinhauser's Steinhauser's
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Tibaldo's Feed && Supply Tibaldo's Feed Supply
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King Feed && Hardware King Feed Hardware
Wimberley Wimberley
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ddfeed@att.net ddfeed@att.net
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
5
August 2013
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK Go See The Lone Ranger Despite the Snotty Reviews! To boil it down to its lowest common denominator, quite frankly the critics are nuts. Going to the movies was like getting me to eat turkey (a near impossible feat), but my wife managed to drag me to a theater to watch a two-and-a-half hour Disney feature and guess what? I’m glad she did. Like most Americans, I had seen endless commercials on TV promoting what the studio hoped to be its summer blockbuster, The Lone Ranger. By Steven Long I had seen several of the film’s trailers and loved them, but the thought of sitting through such a lengthy film compared to being forced to endure a long plane ride between two screaming kids. It just wasn’t going to happen. Then the worst happened and I should have known better. The critics almost universally panned the film, a beloved remake and parody of the radio series of the 1930s that so captivated America during a much more innocent age. It hit the small screen at the dawn of the television age and I, like the rest of the country was captivated by the masked man and his trusted friend, Tonto. Like most other kids of the ‘50s I had my Lone Ranger lunch box to take to school. Those thrilling days of yesteryear were imbedded in me every bit as much as its theme, Gioachino Rossini’s magnificent overture to the opera, William Tell. My reticence at sitting through a long movie was all the more extreme by having the experience of recently sitting through another movie that left me, well, cold. I didn’t exactly hate Le Miserable, but I sure wasn’t crazy about it either. Let’s face it. I’m not a movie nut. I once had lunch with two colleagues at the Houston Chronicle, the late movie critic Jeff Millar, and fellow “opinionator”, Bruce Westbrook. These guys ate, slept, and lived movies. It was their job, understandably. It just wasn’t mine. I didn’t want to spend the lunch hour talking movies, so when Bruce asked me what was the most recent film I had seen, I answered with a perfectly straight face, The “Poseidon Adventure” – the original one. Their jaws dropped almost to their belt buckles - so much for a budding friendship. The truth was that I did see films from time to time, and the further truth is that I love the genre. I have just reached the point that I don’t like going to movie theaters any longer. The big screen gives me a headache. Nothing brings me more joy that putting a DVD into my computer, plugging in my headphones, and watching a high definition version of something I really like. I recently did that with all eight films of the Harry Potter series and loved every single one. Combine that with the fact that I have yet to read a review of much of anything over the last 30 years, either a film or concert, that I agree with. And that brings me to the point. I absolutely loved Disney’s The Lone Ranger, no matter what the self important bloviating critics said about it. It is an exquisitely orchestrated film, its scenes choreographed like a fine ballet. It’s two stars, Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer in his breakout role, as well as its female lead, Ruth Wilson, played their parts to perfection as did the exquisite character actors who supported them. In fact, I would nominate Depp, an actor I don’t particularly care for, for an Oscar. But I would pan the critics of this great successor to one of America’s most enduring Westerns. Once again, the damned critics have done the public a tremendous disservice with their snotty reviews of a film that is bursting with action and fun. Just go see it and judge for yourself. (or rent it when it comes out on DVD if you can’t find it in a theater any longer). My gosh, after all, it’s Disney!
On the Cover: Houston Texans Antonio Smith 6 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
Cover Story:
26 Football’s Ninja Warrior - Steven Long
Features:
10 Spotlight the Stock Horse - Wes White 14 Stock Horse Chronicles - Kelsey Hellmann 30 College Mascots - Steven Long
Lifestyle: 16 Barn & Garden 32 Tiny Houses Loom Large - Margaret Pirtle 34 Summer Buying Guide
Columns: 8 18 20 22 24 36 42 48
Horse Bites Parelli - Pat Parelli with Steven Long The Cowboy Way - Corey Johnson On the English Front - Cathy Strobel Tack Talk - Lew Pewterbaugh Foot Form Function - Pete Ramey Whole Horsemansip - Dianne Lindig Cowboy Corner - Jim Hubbard
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jim Hubbard, Steven Long, Vicki Long, Dianne Lindig, Roni Norquist, Pat Parelli, Pete Ramey, Lew Pewterbaugh, Cathy Strobel, Dr. Jessica Jahiel, Cory Johnson, Margaret Pirtle Volume 20, No. 8 Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397, (281) 447-0772. The entire contents of the magazine are copyrighted July 2013 by Horseback Magazine. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Horseback Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material unless accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope. Horseback Magazine is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management. Subscription rate is $25.00 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Horseback Magazine, P.O. Box 681397, Houston, TX 77268-1397. Fax: (281) 893-1029
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7
Washington International Horse Show Bumps Prize Money up for 2013 WASHINGTON ( Jennifer Wood Media) – The 55th Washington International Horse Show CSI 3* is pleased to announce an increase in the prize money awarded this year in the open jumper and hunter divisions. WIHS will offer nearly half a million dollars in total prize money in 2013, more than a $70,000 boost from 2012! The official prize list for 2013 competition is now available online at www.wihs.org, featuring some exciting new changes to the schedule. The country’s only metropolitan indoor horse show, the Washington International Horse Show hosts one week of world-class competition each year at Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C., on Oct. 22-27, 2013. The President’s Cup Grand Prix CSI 3*-World Cup Qualifier on Saturday evening will increase its purse to $125,000 (+$25,000). Friday night’s line-up will feature an exciting $50,000 1.50m Table C Faults Converted Speed Final (+$17,000) in addition to the $25,000 Puissance. Thursday’s event will officially become a 1.50m Welcome Stake, a $33,000 class, which will be paired with the $20,000 crowd pleasing Gambler’s Choice Costume Class. Wednesday’s feature jumper class will remain an inviting $10,000 1.45m Time First Round. Higher purses are also offered in both the low and high junior/amateur-owner jumper divisions with an increase of $7,500. Prize money for the hunters has also grown by $29,000 and the high performance working hunter division will be featured with two classes on the opening night of the show, Tuesday Oct. 22, showcasing the country’s top professional hunters. WIHS will accept more entries this year in the amateur-owner working hunter 3’3” and the regional pony hunter sections, offering more competitors a fantastic chance to ride at Verizon Center. Cross-entry restrictions have been modified for horses and
8 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
STONE TAVERN, INC. ($35,000) to replace the aging lighting system at “Horse Bites is compiled from the park’s indoor arena to better serve Press Releases sent to Horseback its expanded clinic and educational Magazine. Original reporting is program activities. done as circumstances warrant. • KENTUCKY HORSE PARK Content is edited for length & style.” FOUNDATION, INC. ($25,000) to assist in the creation of a dedicated horse path at the Kentucky Horse Park to riders competing in the WIHS Children’s enhance safety for horses and riders. and Adult Championships. As well, the • USEF EQUINE HEALTH entry process will be streamlined through RESEARCH FUND ($21,173) for the option of electronic submission a research project at the University of through EquestrianConnect.com. Minnesota that is using next-generation The WIHS has a venerable tradition whole genome sequencing to search for a of hosting the best horses and riders genetic basis for shivers. with a historical record of competitors • USEF U.S. SADDLE SEAT featuring Olympians, national champions, EQUITATION WORLD CUP many talented young equitation riders, ($50,000) to assist in hosting the 2014 and top-ranking junior, amateur, and pony International Saddle Seat Equitation competitors. World Cup. The Trust previously The 2013 Washington International provided grant funding for the U.S. Horse Show anticipates another great year team’s 2012 victory in South Africa. of competition showcasing top equestrian • USEF U.S. SADDLE SEAT talent at Verizon Center. Find out more by EQUITATION YOUNG RIDER downloading the 2013 WIHS Prize List at TEAM ($10,000) to develop riders www.wihs.org. Entries close on Sept. 3, 2013. for future U.S. Saddle Seat Equitation To find out more, please visit www.wihs.org, World Cup competitions. The funding join us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter. will help the Young Rider Team host a Since its debut, the WIHS has been a competition against two South African Washington, D.C. institution attended teams. by celebrities, business, military, and • UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKAdiplomatic leaders, as well as countless LINCOLN ($29,100) to create horse enthusiasts of all ages. Washington new online educational materials for International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is eXtension HorseQuest (http://www. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization extension.org/horses) and My Horse headquartered in Washington, D.C. University (http://myhorseuniversity. com). Among the materials to be offered are instructional videos, articles, lessons Equestrian Trust Awards $210 K in Grants, Round One and webinars. Deadline for Second Round is October 7 • WESTERN DRESSAGE ASSOC. OF LEXINGTON, (USA Equestrian Trust) — AMERICA ($13,415) to create a video USA Equestrian Trust has awarded nearly library showcasing Western Dressage, a $210,000 in grants for 10 projects submitted new discipline inclusive to all breeds of by equine non-profits during the first of the horses. foundation’s two 2013 application periods. To learn more about USA The deadline for the Trust’s second grant application period is October 7. Equine Equestrian Trust and its programs or to apply non-profits interested in applying for a during the second round of grants, visit the grant can do so by using the Trust’s online Trust’s website at www.trusthorses.org. About USA Equestrian Trust application form at www.trusthorses.org. USA Equestrian Trust is a New York NotThose projects awarded funding were: • AMERICAN YOUTH HORSE for-Profit Corporation whose mission is to COUNCIL ($5,000) to support its assist in preserving and/or enhancing the annual symposium that educates youth quality of equestrian sport in the United on all facets of the equine industry States of America. through demonstrations, presentations and discussions. National Horse Show Joins Pin Oak, Devon, Hampton • THE DRESSAGE FOUNDATION Classic as a USEF Heritage Competition ($5,000) to help revamp its website and LEXINGTON, (USEF) – The Alltech offer an improved online experience for National Horse Show announced in late visitors. July that it has been named an official USEF • HEALING HORSES & ARMED Heritage Competition. The legendary show FORCES ($15,600) to assist its equine made the successful move to its new home therapy program for veterans. in Lexington, Kentucky in 2011. During • HORSE PARK OF NEW JERSEY AT the debut season at the Kentucky Horse www.horsebackmagazine.com
Horse Bites - Con’t. on pg. 38
Park, the show was named as the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame’s Horse Show of the Year and was ranked as the nation’s top show by the North American Riders Group (NARG). Founded in 1883 at the original Madison Square Garden, the National Horse Show is America’s oldest indoor horse show, firmly established as a major fixture on the national and international sports and social event calendars. The designation of a USEF Heritage Competition is reserved for competitions that have been established for a long period of time and have made substantial contribution toward the development and promotion of the sport, both within the broader community, by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of the sportsmanship and competition. Eligibility for the Heritage designation requires a minimum of 25 consecutive years of operation excluding any Act of God interruption and application by the Competition Licensee. In addition, the Competition must be in good standing with both USEF and the representing affiliate. The event must show significant involvement and support from the community where the competition is held and significant contribution to promotion of the sport of equestrian. Also, the show must be widely recognized within the sport of equestrian as
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being a Regional, National or International level of competition, or possessing other characteristics that make it unique within the sport of equestrian. The Alltech National Horse Show joins an impressive list of competitions with the Heritage Competition designation 2013 Heritage Competitions. That list includes the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, the Devon Horse Show, Upperville, Waterloo, Fairfield, Warrenton, the Hampton Classic and others. The Alltech National Horse Show returns to the Alltech Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, on October 29 through November 3, 2013. APHA wraps up successful 2013 Youth World Championship Show Youthful enthusiasm, scholarships, expanded recognition and new alliances are recipe for success FORT WORTH, (APHA) - The American Paint Horse Association (APHA) successfully completed the 2013 AjPHA Youth World Championship Paint Horse Show. The association joined forces with the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) based in Moscow, Idaho, to hold overlapping youth events at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth. The 85-acre WRMC complex boasts 45 acres of roof, which housed 286
horses for APHA and another 670 for ApHC. The Appaloosa National Show was held at the same location, immediately preceding the youth events. This was the first time the two organizations collaborated on such a large scale, and a first in the industry as well. “This combined show was a great example of how to create a win-win outcome,” said APHA Executive Director Billy Smith. “Everyone benefited.” APHA youth, who are all members of the American Junior Paint Horse Association (AjPHA), competed in 79 World Championship classes and 12 additional specialty events like sweepstakes, challenge, introductory and fun classes over the course of the show, which began June 29 and concluded July 6. Five classes and multiple social events were offered in which youth from both APHA and ApHC could participate together with a shared love of spotted horses. In all, APHA hosted 1,327 paid entries with exhibitors representing 39 states plus Canada. New age division breakouts in select Novice Youth classes (Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle, Showmanship at Halter, Western Horsemanship and Western Pleasure) proved popular, as did recognition for Intermediate Exhibitors in 14 classes. The World Championship Paint
August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
9
Breed Spotlight...
SO YOU WANT TO COMPETE...
ON A STOCK HORSE By Wes White
T
he stock horse has its roots as a tool. These animals are used daily by cowboys accomplishing a task, and the equine has developed into much more. Today’s cow herd averages 40 head, and the need for a competent cow horse is not what it used to be. The stock horse has developed into an animal used by folks other than full-time cowboys. With the herd size being what it is the owner is not dependent on income from cows. This has made the stock horse’s job change dramatically. He no longer trots four miles to the back side before dawn, or stays hobbled overnight next to a chuck wagon. He is no longer a necessary tool, with the exception of a few, used daily on a ranch. He now is required to do much more. The owner doesn’t gather his cows as often but still enjoys the activity of a cowboy and the stock horse. The need has developed for a more diversified horse, one that maintains all the skills of a working cow horse, with
10 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE -- August July 2013 10 2013
the added flexibility to compete in the show ring. This demand has caught the attention of many horse breeders and trainers. After all, a ranch horse selling for $30K is enough for even a dumb cowboy to notice. This demand has led to the formation of associations like the Ranch Horse Association of America (RHAA), the Stock Horse of Texas (SHOT), and has even spilled over into the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). The RHAA includes in their mission statement the following;” In 1998 the RHAA was formed to promote the qualities and characteristics of the ultimate working ranch horse, while providing a means of competition to show these ranch horses.”
I think they are promoting the most versatile horse on the planet. The SHOT mission statement includes the following; “The Stock Horse of Texas Association was created to promote and support the concept of the versatile stock horse. The strength in this concept lies in the skills developed by horse and rider in four disciplines: Reining, Pleasure, Trail, and Working Cow Horse. An all-around stock horse can handle a variety of situations with ease and athleticism, using a natural movement attitude.” The AQHA has recognized the value of the stock horse. They have implemented a division called Ranch Horse Versatility. This class includes the following sub classes: Working
“A Solid Ranch Horse Can Do Anything”
www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
A
stock horse can essentially be any breed or combination of breeds, it merely has to possess the necessary skills to work cattle or livestock in a ranch or ranch-type environment. Over time, a handful of breeds, and even specific bloodlines, within those breeds have been developed which possess what has been called “Cow Sense”, however, any horse Grade or Purebred can be “Cowy” and both useful and competitive either on a working ranch or in Stock Horse Competition. Common popular breeds used in Stock Horse Competition and commonly found on cattle ranches in the United States include:
Wes White and his Mustang “Jimmy”
Cow Horse, Reining, Trail, Pleasure, and Halter. The AQHA has also developed another class called Ranch Pleasure. In this division the horses are judged on a different criteria. Traditional Western Pleasure is a class where the contestants all show at the same time on the rail of an arena. The horses are judged on the quality of their movement. Ranch pleasure is different, the horses are shown individually, and although their way of moving is considered, other elements play a part as well. For example, Ranch Pleasure must follow patterns, add a tic of reining, and a tic of trail. The animal executes circles, traveling over poles, and side passing. The horse is judged on his ability to perform the given pattern and stated maneuvers. Gate transitions, way of going or bodily movement, and general attitude, are the main criteria a judge looks for. Traditional cowboy attire is preferred and extra consideration is not rewarded for “bling.” A traditional cowboy rig is fine. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
Basically, all the criteria required to demonstrate the versatility of a “Do anything”horse are encompassed in these associations. There are also local ranch horse competitions around the nation put together by local folks who want to show off their horse. Any solid ranch horse has the ability to be competitive in any of these classes. If you are turned off by the posh and polish required for other shows you might want to check this out. But beware, a solid ranch can do anything, so come on a good horse.
• Quarter Horses (www.aqha.com) • Paints (www.apha.com) • Pintos (www.pinto.org) • Appaloosas (www.appaloosa.com) While Mustangs were the original Stock Horses of North America, each country or culture has their “Stock Horse of Choice” to help manage their livestock. The Criollo is the Stock Horse of Argentina, the Andalusian is Spains, and there are Stock horses for Canada, Australia and many Eu ro p e a n Countries, too. The important thing to remember is that it’s the skill and useability of the horse that makes it the ideal stock horse, not necessarily, the breed. hB August 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
13
Breed Spotlight...
The Stock Horse
CHRONICLES A HORSE THAT MAKES A RANCH WORK By Kelsey Hellmann
H
ow do we have such great stock horses today when less people are herding cattle for a living? Great stock horses come from great sires. A stock horse in today’s equine industry can vary widely from a Paint cutting horse to an Appaloosa team roping horse. But they can all be characterized in the same way: agile, quick, a horse with powerful hindquarters, and of course “cow sense.” A stock horse comes from a long line of ancestors that have been bred and trained for livestock working purposes. In the early years of the cowboy, horses played such a huge roll in every day life that cowboys began to breed for the qualities they needed in a horse. The best livestock working horses would be bred together to create what we now know as cow sense. Some of the most famous sires that help create the stock horse and be found in the history books of all the standard stock horse breeds. From the King Ranch’s “Old Sorrel” to the 6666 Ranch’s “Hollywood Gold”.
The King Ranch Old Sorrel (1915-1945) The King Ranch remains one of the premier ranches and is known for contributing tremendously to the agricultural industry. One of the King Ranch’s largest contributions, next to developing the Santa Gertrudis breed of cattle, was creating an amazing stock horse bloodline. The foundation sire for the ranch was Old Sorrel. In 1915 as a foal Old Sorrel was sold to the King Ranch for $125. He proved himself to be worth breeding because of his solid work ethic as a ranch
14 14 H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE -- August August 2013 2013
OLD SORREL
Photo courtesy The King Ranch
horse. Old Sorrel was used for roping, cattle working and even racing on the giant spread. J.K. Northway described Old Sorrel as a superior cow horse. The animal was twenty-five years old when the American Quarter Horse Association was founded. The King Ranch registered their sire among the very first horses in the registry; he was given the registration number 209. Old Sorrel sired 116 registered foals, through line - breeding almost every horse the King Ranch registered from 1940 to the 1960’s was a descendant of Old Sorrel. www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
6666 Ranch Hollywood Gold (1940-1964)
HOLLYWOOD GOLD Photo courtesy 6666 Ranch
Hollywood Gold was one of the first studs used at the Four Sixes Ranch, under the management of George Humphreys. This horse was used to work cattle on the Four Sixes ranch and Humphreys referred to the sire as the smartest horse he’d ever ridden. He sired 263 registered foals many that competed and won titles. Hollywood Gold is a valued line to have today in both stock horse events and ranching. The traits passed through this bloodline are traits the Four Sixes pride’s themselves on: cow sense, speed, gentleness and good looks.
E
ach of these great sires made an outstanding impact on the equine industry and on the working stock horse. These sires had the traits of great stock horses and those things can still be seen today through their offspring, cow sense being one of the top attributes seen through each of these bloodlines. Specific breeds are better known for their working abilities such as American Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, American Paint Horses, Mustangs and Australian Stock Horses. Although there are specific breeds that fit in to the stock horse standards best, any horse that successfully interacts with any type of livestock qualifies to be labeled as a stock horse.
Double J Ranch Doc Bar (1956-1992) Doc Bar was a sire that changed the cutting horse industry without ever competing in cutting events. This sire was never ridden in competition but his offspring brought style and capability to the cutting pen. Doc Bar was actually intended to become a racehorse but he did not cut it on the racetrack and was then given to Charlie Araujo to show in halter classes. Out of 15 shows, he took nine grand champion titles and one www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
DOC BAR
Photo courtesy The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
reserve title. He also caught the attention of Double J Ranch, who bought him for breeding to a band of mares with bloodlines from the King Ranch, the Four Sixes Ranch and other large cattle working ranches. Doc Bar has offspring in the Nation Cutting Horse Association’s Hall of Fame and was inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame in 1993. He sired 485 foals who in total earned 4,569.5 American Quarter Horse Performance Points.
August 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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Keepsake Ribbon Quilts Honey Fried Figs... Directions: 1. Halve figs lengthwise. 2. Melt a tablespoon or two each of butter and honey in a small frying pan and put the figs, cut-side down, in the pan. 3. Cook until everything is bubbling and the figs start to brown a bit. 4. As they cook, spoon the melted butter and honey over the top of the figs once or twice. 5. Remove the figs from the pan and serve with cream, whipped cream, yogurt, or ice cream on the side, if you like.
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If
you or your kids show, then I would be willing to bet that somewhere in your home is a box or two of event ribbons that you haven’t a clue what to do with. There are only so many that can be displayed and the rest usually find themselves sitting in some corner of a room or closet where no one takes a second look at them until years later when they eventually find their way to the trash. Well, dig out that box of ribbons because we have the perfect way to remember all the good times as well as make a functional quilt with them that will never be tossed. Keepsake
Ribbon Quilts are a fantastic way to commemorate those big wins or even children’s event ribbons. Gail Golley, of Keepsakes Ribbon Quilts can take all those ribbons and custom design a quilt or pillow specifically for the amount and type of ribbons that you send and wish to include. She can also add pictures, pieces of award coolers, and award banners. The best part, is she can also make these quilts for any sporting event ribbons, dog shows or any special occasions that you would like remembered. Give her a call to see what she can make for you! www.keepsakeribbonquilts.com
August 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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Western...
Executing the Side Pass! By Pat Parelli with Steven Long
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE: I suspect thousands of horsemen out there are like me and have had some difficulty executing the side pass. My friend and trainer, Wes White, can take my mare Bruja and side pass her straddling the entire length of a full size telephone poll with it lying on the ground. I can’t even side pass up to a gate to open it properly. He’ll get on the same horse and do it every time. PAT PARELLI: The better a horse goes backwards and sideways, the better he’ll do everything else. And the worse he goes backwards and sideways, the worse he’ll do everything else. You’re ridin’ down the road, and all of a sudden your horse side passes away from the plastic alligator that is in front of the Mack truck that is coming your way. Well, the only way to counter that is if you’ve got a good side pass. If he’s side passing to the left, you better have a side pass to the right. After teaching over many decades I’ve found that going sideways is a dysfunction that many, many, riders have. HORSEBACK: Count me in. PARELLI: You have to understand the value of going sideways, ‘cause horses will do it when they get afraid. We must understand that we need to push our horse sideways. You need to get your horse to go sideways on the ground first. Get a 12’ rope and one of my carrot sticks, then ask your horse to move his front end over three steps and then move his hindquarters over three steps. So teach your horse how to go sideways on the ground first. As he takes a couple of steps, then rub him with the stick, and then you’ve got a horse that knows the concept. That is
18 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
what I would recommend you do before you get on him. HORSEBACK: So now you are on him, then what? PARELLI: First, you want to be able to push your horse right or left. Face the fence. You don’t have to worry about the horse going forward. The next thing, put your leg in the middle of his ribs, and then take your stick or the tail end of your reins. Tap him on the hind quarters and move over three steps, and then on the front, tap until he moves over.
Then keep that up, front and back, front and back, keep your leg on, until you teach your horse to go sideways a couple of steps. Pretty soon, your horse will get it. Light leg, a little tapping, and all of a sudden your horse will
start to go sideways. HORSEBACK: Simple as that, huh? PARELLI: Let me tell you a story. One time I was in Mexico and I was working with a group of female charros. They all ride side saddle – right leg over the pommel and they said, “Pat, we can’t side pass because we have our leg over the pommel.” They all had little quirts, so I said, take your quirt and tap him on the hind quarters and then the fore quarters. The look on their faces was something I’ll always remember. So, remember you want to push your horse right or left. After you’ve got your horse going sideways, I’ve got a little task for you. About six to ten feet away from a gate side pass over to it and then pet the gate for about two minutes and then ride off. Ride around, and then ride around some more. Then get about six to ten feet away from that gate again, hesitate, side pass over and then rub the gate, but don’t try to open it because you might get into a wrestling match and now the horse hates gates. Just keep doing this with your horse, side pass over to it do it right one time, then do it left the next, and pretty soon your horse will become used to side passing over to the gate. Now, after several days of repetitions of this procedure, you can attempt to open the gate. Remember, the better your horse goes backwards and sideways, the better he does everything else. For more info visit: www.parelli.com hB www.horsebackmagazine.com
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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Western...
He-Wolf of a Hand!
S
ometimes a story you tell on yourself will embarrass you, you have to ask yourself “was I really this dumb”. Of course the answer is, yes…I was really that dumb…or was I ten feet tall and bulletproof ? Many years ago, I worked on the LS Ranch. This was right after I was out of college and I was a legend in my own mind. Probably the greatest hand with a horse the world had ever seen. There wasn’t one that could buck hard enough or run fast enough to get away from me! I was a regular holy terror! A wolf of the world (to borrow a line from a Chris Ledoux song)! There wasn’t anything anybody could tell me that I didn’t already know about horses! Looking back
now…I was a train wreck waiting to happen! At the time I worked on the LS, it was “only” about 12,000 acres. Considerably smaller than it was back in its heyday, when it covered a large portion of theTexas Panhandle. But it was plenty big enough to put some miles on a colt. And I took full advantage of that. When I wasn’t caught up in the everyday cowboy requirements, I rode colts all over that place. I could not believe they were paying me to do this kind of work, a whoppin’ $700 a month too! A small fortune for me back then! I really only had one time that I regretted my career choice…. We brought in about 15 head of weanling to yearling colts once. The boss wanted to brand them and halter break them before we turned them back out for a year or so. This was right up my alley. Like I said, I knew all there was to know about horses! Of course the halter breaking tended to only be a catch ‘em, put a halter with a long lead on ‘em and let ‘em drag that around for a little while type of breaking. We ran them into a chute and while I mashed them tight against the fence with a gate, the boss branded ‘em. It was a pret-
ty fast operation and as soon as they were branded we turned them into a big corral. The boss then proceeded to give me instructions on how to halter break colts, I nodded and agreed that his idea would be the best way to do this. His final instructions to me were to “not get too close to those back feet, those little hooves could hurt if they caught you with them”. Did he not get the memo that I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses? I had listened politely to the old codger. After all my folks had raised me to be respectful of my elders, but once he left I had every intention to do it my way. After all, he was a cowhand…I was a horseman. In my mind, far and away…my ideas would work the best. I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses! I ran the first colt into the round pen, he made a couple laps and I got him roped. I snubbed him up to a post and put the halter/lead combo on him, then turned him loose. This was going to be easy! I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses! The next two went pretty easy, I followed the same process. Things were moving along…but this was too easy. I was starting to get bored. So on the fourth one, I thought I would try to put my hands on him. I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses!
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He was a big brown yearling colt. He ran a couple of laps around the pen, but really seemed to calm down fast. I slowly walked up to him and he wheeled his hind in toward me and took off. I quickly stepped back and let him run a couple more laps around the pen. I could play this game all day! I was a regular hewolf of a hand with horses! O n c e he calmed down again, I slowly walked up to him and he turned his head slightly away. Cool, I was going to be able to do this without roping him! This was simple and I was treading new ground as far as how colts were started on the LS Ranch. I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses! As I laid my hand on his hip…. somebody shot me! I’m really not sure where the bullet came from, but the next thing I knew I was laying on the ground about twenty feet away from that colt. My stomach was on fire and I couldn’t feel my legs. My head was spinning and my ears were ringing (that’s the reason I knew it must have been a shot… it was echoing in my ears). I knew I must
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have been lung shot too, because I could not catch my breath. I thought the injury might be bad enough to kill me. So I first felt my stomach, sure that I would find a hole and lots of blood. I cannot tell you how relieved I was that there was no blood. About that time, my senses returned a little. I still couldn’t feel my legs, couldn’t catch my breath, and my ears were still ringing…but I was alive. I started to realize that this big brown devil had kicked me! NOT only kicked me, but had done it so fast that I didn’t know what had happened! As the shock wore off, I came to the realization that he had kicked me in the belly. That’s why I couldn’t breathe! As far as not being able to feel my legs, I figure he must have hit my spine by kicking through my belly. I hoped that I wasn’t crippled...how could I continue on this path of being the greatest horseman the world ever knew? I was a regular he-wolf of a hand with horses? All of this had happened in just a few seconds, but my mind must have been working in low gear, because all of the
thought processes seemed to take hours. If anyone had seen me, what they would have seen was a crumpled up pile of cowboy lying in the ground, sucking dirt and dust in big ol’ gulps and moaning all the while. I was hoping the boss would not come back anytime soon, I don’t know if I could have handled that “I told you so” look that he was forever giving when I did something different than he told me. Eventually I got my air back and the feeling came back to my legs….even the ringing in my ears finally went away. (Will someone get that phone?) I stood up and remembered I had eleven more colts to do, so I staggered to the chute. Out of respect to the boss, I figured this was as good a time as any to try out his way. I proceeded to do the last eleven in no time flat, even with that ringing. This is what I learned; even though I meant no harm to that colt…my approach scared him to death. His reaction was only natural when my approach overloaded him. I approached him out of my own ego, thinking I was the he-wolf of the world! I could force him to respond to me by roping him, but didn’t I just create something else for him to be scared of ? Or I could have done, as the old cowboy suggested, and used the chute, thus guiding him gently down the path I wanted him to go. Age and brains don’t always come together at the same time! PS: I can still hear that ringing, will someone please answer that phone? It’s been ringing for a while! hB
August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
21
English...
In
recent years, horseback riding has grown in popularity. It’s one of those sports that so many people have romantic ideas about. You can just imagine the wind blowing in your hair as you gallop across a scenic landscape on a beautiful horse that responds perfectly to your every desire. Then you go out to ride and discover that participation requires a lot more than just desire. You need time, money and effort that can be devoted to this pastime. So why do so many people want to put so much effort into horses? Because of the way it makes them feel, of course! The effects of our efforts can be felt in many forms that result in physical, psychological and physiological benefits. With all the options of things to do with a horse, it’s easy to find something that sparks your interest and helpful to focus on what you would enjoy doing with your horse the most. What was it that attracted you to horses? Do you want to treat your involvement as a sport or an activity? From a riding standpoint, you can keep it simple and stick to trail riding or take it to the next level by specializing in equestrian sports. There is endurance riding, jumping, dressage, eventing, polo, reining, roping, horse racing and many more specialties. While most people want to ride horses, some prefer to remain unmounted. You can find many of the
same benefits found in riding by doing things from the ground such as grooming, caring for the horse, training it to do tricks, lunging, long lining and more. And then
The Many Benefits of Riding
22 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
there is driving, which is in a class by itself and much more physical than you might think. From a physical standpoint, the horse does not do all the work! Riding keeps you fit but it is not a sport that you should take up to become fit. If you want to start riding and you are overweight or have very little muscle tone, go on a fitness program first. You will need some muscle to work with the horse whether it is from the ground or in the saddle. If you are overweight, think about the health of the horse. Horses are not made to carry 250 pounds around. If it is struggling to trot around or its back is strained by carrying you, it’s cruel to ride your horse and you could injure it. Don’t expect a horse to carry more than twenty percent of its weight on its back. You also need a certain amount of fitness to be able to balance on the horse’s back. A person who is fit and weighs a hundred and seventy pounds will have a much different effect on the horse than a rider with a sedentary lifestyle who is a hundred and sevwww.horsebackmagazine.com
enty pounds. If you are reasonably fit to start with, you’ll find your strength and stamina will improve with your riding. Trotting, cantering and jumping will all give you an aerobic workout to get your heart and lungs working at a greater capacity. You can’t help but burn calories and tone your muscles, too. Grooming, picking feet, tacking and washing horses will help you stretch and tone your entire body. Grooming and tacking can be a great physical warm-up before you get on your horse to ride. Psychologically, riding is great for helping you to feel better about yourself. The calmness that you derive from spending time on the ground with your horse as you groom him, graze him in the grass, teach him to lunge, give him treats or take him on a trail ride can help you relax and find peace. You can also find great enjoyment in socializing with other people who have the same love of horses. When you can share stories of your adventures with your horse or discuss how to improve a specific exercise with other horsemen, you can’t help but feel like you are a part of 0513_7.625x4.8125 a community. By5/16/13 doing 12:27 someHorseBack PM
thing as simple as taking a lesson with other riders, you’ll discover a bonding experience that leads you to better relationships with people. Spending time with your horse as you go through the process of preparing him for the task at hand, taking him out for a ride and cleaning him up afterwards can bring out a greater degree of compassion not just towards animals but also towards other people, too. A lot of people find great joy in horses without ever getting on one. Training them to do things from the ground can be great for your mind and soul. Communicating with another animal that is so big and powerful can give you a great sense of joy. When you focus on the animal and completing a task or exercise, your mind can be cleared of all the problems you have faced in your day. When you finally accomplish something with your horse that is difficult such as successfully completing a competitive trail ride, mastering a difficult cross country course or completing a dressage movement that was particularly difficult, you get a1 tremendous sense of self-worth Page
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and accomplishment. As a result, your confidence can soar! And then there are the physiological reasons to ride. As you build your horse time into your routine, you’ll find that the increased fitness and calming effect will help to lower blood pressure and relieve some of the stresses in your life. Stress takes a big toll on your body and most of us have too much in our lives. As your stress level reduces, you may find less of a need for certain medications that you might routinely take for your physical or psychological health. When you can immerse yourself in any kind of horse activity, your whole body and mind are affected. While horses may be a significant investment in your time, money and effort, the many benefits that you can derive from it can make the investment pay off. And let’s face it, you know you are worth it! hB Cathy Strobel has over 30 years of experience as a trainer, judge & clinician she can be reached at Southern Breeze Eq. Ctr. at (281) 431-4868 or www.sbreeze.com
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
23
English...
“Time to Speak English”
Horseback Magazine’s Saddle & Tack Editor
A
lthough many of my columns are non-discipline specific, it appears they run toward the western riders. My humblest apologies to the riders who use different types of tack. This month, we will tackle English saddles and tack. My first thought is the name. Did English riding start in England? Did the French, Germans, and Italians, copy the English style of saddle and riding? I consider myself a student of saddle history, sadly, I am lacking in knowledge of English saddle
history. I do know that the act of posting came from English mail carriers who found that rising on every other beat of the hooves was less tiring for the horse. The action was called “posting the mail” and shortened to “posting”. I know some of the finest English saddles come from Germany, France, and Italy. Is it still proper to call them “English” saddles? When Miller Harness (now defunct) started the “Collegiate” line of saddles, they took up all of the Argentine saddle production. Old Argentine names like Borelli, Cortina, and RD disappeared, and the Collegiate line took off. Miller Harness retrained the Argentine saddle makers, and the Collegiate saddles approached the quality level of English made saddles. It is my understanding, although I have no first hand knowledge on this, but Walsall, England has what they refer to as “Saddler’s Row”. These shops are skilled artisans that build saddles under contract for several different sellers. I know when I worked for B.T.
Crump, their Prix de Saute saddle was virtually identical to Miller’s Prix de Nations saddle. At that time the only difference between those two saddles, and the Nelson Pessoa saddle, was that the Pessoa had “Nelson Pessoa” stamped in gold letters on the fender. Now the R. Pessoa saddles are made in Argentina. I don’t think B.T. Crump makes saddles anymore, and Dover Saddlery owns the Miller name. Smith-Worthington Saddlery is the oldest saddler in the United States. They have been in business since 1794, when George Washington was serving his second term as President. They make saddles in Hartford, Ct., have saddles private labeled to their specs in England, and also have some very nice Argentine saddles made to their specs. I don’t know if they still do, but they used to import some cheap saddles from Pakistan, too. They, like many other English tack suppliers, import a lot of Indian made English tack. When India was a colony of
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England, the English officers stationed there were very bored. They started a game called “polo”. Cows are sacred in India, but water buffalo are not. Most Indian made tack is water buffalo, which is actually pretty good leather when properly tanned. The trouble is, all of the cheap Indian leather is urine tanned, and you really don’t want to know more. If it doesn’t smell good, don’t buy it. There was, maybe still is, a company called “Bobby’s English Tack”. Bobby lives in California and has factories in India. He studied tanning techniques and had his leather tanned with veg tanning and made the best tack coming out of India for several years. Now several companies use veg tanning so the quality of much of the Indian tack is improving. As a sales rep for Courbette Saddlery, I always wondered who made the German made Courbette saddles. Courbette’s factory was in Switzerland, and their Swiss made saddles were all made on synthetic flexible trees, using full grain German leather. Excellent saddles, reasonably priced, and fit a wide array of horses. I don’t believe they used wool for stuffing the saddle panels, but they used a wool felt that could still be adjusted except on the close contact saddles which had closed cell foam in the panels. The German made Courbette saddle had the “Federbaum” tree, just like the Stubben
comfort
ease
saddles. There were a lot of other likenesses, and I always suspected that Stubben private labeled the German made Courbettes. When the owner of Courbette sold out, Stubben bought the company. Having different companies making several different private label saddles is not at all a bad thing. Each company can specify individual differences. When you work on these saddles you often see characteristics that identify them with a specific maker, but notice the brand names are different. Most English saddle sellers offer trial saddles. I think you should try to stick with retailers that let you try before you buy. The truth, as I see it, is that English saddles all look alike, within their discipline, when the rider is mounted. There are significant differences in the feel when you are sitting on one. There are also differences in the fit on your horse, and they are much more customizable for fit than a western saddle. English saddles, other than close contact saddles, are generally wool flocked, or in other words, have wool stuffed panels. These tend to adapt to the horses back fairly quickly, but must be re-stuffed every so often to maintain proper weight distribution. You should make sure your saddler is experienced in English saddle repair. I recently re-stuffed one that had been done by a very talented and well known western saddle
maker. It was plain he had no idea how an English saddle was put together. Close contact saddles can be adjusted by using shims of foam or felt between the panels and the tree. It’s very important to check your English saddle fit often, as the bars of the saddle are much shorter than western saddles so your weight is not distributed over as wide an area. At 185 pounds, I often feel like I’m a little heavy for the lessened distribution area. Depends on the horse though since I sometimes ride bareback, which is obviously not distributing my weight over much area at all. Anyway, for those who have never seen me in my breeches and English saddle, I do own them. I recently dressed up for a friend and was going to wear my breeches and dress boots to town. We ended up not going, and when I went to take my boots off, one hung up. No amount of pulling would get it off. I ended up pulling the heel and soul off in the boot jack, pulled out my pocket knife and went to carving. Does anyone have a used pair of men’s dress boots, size 11 EE, 20 to 21” tall, with a 16” calf ? hB Bandera’s Lew Pewterbaugh has been called the most knowledgeable saddle and tack authority in the Southwest. For private fitting consultation call (830) 328-0321 or (830) 522-6613 or email: saddlerlew@gmail.com.
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Lifestyle...
Football’s Ninja Warrior on Horseback
An Exclusive Visit with Houston Texan Antonio Smith – Cowboy By Steven Long
When
number ninety four of the Houston Texans appears on the ten o’clock news he is instantly recognizable as the wisecracking defensive end of an almost certain Super bowl contender. But Antonio Smith, self described as the NFL’s Ninja Warrior, is a serious man who likes nothing more than to be at home on his ranch in Oklahoma with his family and 13 horses. At age 31, the 6’4”, 294 pound mass of pure muscle and bone is in his ninth season with the league, first playing with the Arizona Cardinals and then coming to the (formerly) upstart Texans. Smith is a graduate of Oklahoma State University – appropriately known as The Cowboys. He sat down with Horseback for a conversation, horseman to horseman.
HORSEBACK MAGAZINE: You went to Oklahoma State University. My daughter Michelle is a graduate of Oklahoma State. ANTONIO SMITH: Go “Pokes.” HORSEBACK: So tell us, where’s your ranch in Oklahoma? SMITH: It’s out of Jones. HORSEBACK: Ah, the Oklahoma City area. Was the ranch in the family, or something you bought after you became rich and famous. SMITH: I just bought it last year. We used to have a farm when I was younger but I had a grandfather that sold out the country land and kind of went citified. All I ever wanted was to get the kids back out in the country, so when I was able to, I got me a ranch. HORSEBACK: How many kids do you have? SMITH: I have two kids, a son and a daughter, but I’ve got all these nieces and nephews. My son’s 10, and my daughter’s 3.
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HORSEBACK: is he riding yet? SMITH: Oh yeah, he rides. He had a little scare not too long ago. Now I’ve got to work him back up to having his confidence again. HORSEBACK: How many horses do you have? SMITH: I have about 13. Two of them are little ones. HORSEBACK: What breed are they? SMITH: I have two Thoroughbreds, but all of the rest are Quarter Horses. HORSEBACK: So what do you do with your horses? Do you do any sports on ‘em, or do you just ride them? SMITH: I do a lot of trail riding. I don’t think (Coach Gary) Kubiac would let me do a sport, but every now and then I’ll ride a little pony express. And then I’ve been workin’ on my ropin,’ and we’re getting our cattle up and going this year. We’ve got us a bull, and I’m getting ready to get started with some home bred heifers. HORSEBACK: What breed of cattle do you have? SMITH: We’re going to do Black Angus. HORSEBACK: That’s beautiful. There is nothing prettier than a Black Angus when he’s all groomed. Meat tastes pretty good too. SMITH: Oh yeah. I’ve got one out here now that has put on quite a bit of weight just in a year. From last season to this year, he looks like a whole ‘nother bull. HORSEBACK: Do you go to the auctions? SMITH: I’ve gone to a couple of auctions, but my cousins have been doing it their whole life at the auctions and at the stockyards, and they’ve pretty much www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
got personal contacts so we get most of our cattle and horses from different ranchers. HORSEBACK: How long have you been riding a horse? SMITH: As a kid, I rode before I could even remember. We used to have Quarter Horses when I was young but as I said, we kind of lost everything. I kind of didn’t ride for a lot of years. I started back up about seven years ago. Then I had my own horse that I
consistently could go out and ride. HORSEBACK: There’s nothing like it. SMITH: It brought back a new aspect of my life. Ever since then I just took it and ran. Then I started looking for a ranch, found one that I really liked, and now I’ve got all these horses, and each one of my nieces and nephews has their own horse. We teach them how to work with them. August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE August
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Lifestyle...
HORSEBACK: You bet. Now let’s muscles riding a horse. It helps move to football. Do you feel like my back. You have to strengthen riding does anything for your the core, and you have to disphysical condicipline yourself to tioning? strengthen your “...the last two core. I’ve seen a lot SMITH: I know it does. I know it of different areas years I’ve been where you improve does. Really, like I didn’t know it at on conditioning by riding pretty first until I went a just riding. few months without riding dur- heavily, and by that HORSEBACK: So ing the season, when you come into second week I’m camp after a layoff, then I came back and started riding it’s a real advantage again – me and already starting to for you over some my cousins rode of these other NFL come around.” players that haven’t for about four days, we put miles had that work on a on them, and then horse all year. you start to hurt SMITH: I think it in places you don’t normally feel does give you an advantage. pain. Training for football, you The worst thing in camp that all know, in your legs, your hips, athletes hate, all athletes hate it your groin area, you feel different - and for some people it’s the dif-
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ference between some people retiring and never coming back – coming into camp is some of the most painful stuff you will ever see. You’re hurting all the time, and you have two practices a day, so it takes a toll on your body. You’re not used to that pain threshold, and by that third week your body starts adjusting. You know, the last two years I’ve been riding pretty heavily, and by that second week I’m already starting to come around. That initial shock is already over and I’ve started to pretty much put a good beating on it (the body) so it can be ready. HORSEBACK: Who else in the NFL do you know who rides as much as you do? SMITH: You know, I’ve just started finding out people I never knew ride. I’ve got a few teamwww.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
mates like a little youngster on our team named David Hunter has ridden all his life. I just found out that Jerred Allan is a big cowboy. Daniel Manning rides. As of now, that’s all I’ve talked to and have had a chance to mingle with about it. Gary Walker, who used to play for us, rides. HORSEBACK: You know, it’s funny, but I called the Dallas Cowboys press office, and that team, called the Cowboys, doesn’t have a single member that rides horses. SMITH: (Antonio laughed uproariously) HORSEBACK: Have you ever had any of the Texans up to your www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
place? SMITH: No, but I’ve had a couple say they are going to come. I’m going to start camp next year and pretty much what I’m going to do is get some of them to come up and help me with my cattle. If they like to ride, I’m going to do a trail ride, a kids trail ride. I’m trying to get it all together so the players can get up there and get on a horse too. You know, you talk to most of those boys about riding a horse, and they’re more scared of a horse than a motorcycle, a four wheeler, or anything that can hurt ‘em. They miss the big thrill
of a horse. I don’t know why. HORSEBACK: Well, Antonio, the final question has to be this. Is Houston going to
the Super Bowl? SMITH: You know, I’ve said this every year, and I’m going to keep sayin’ it because I believe it. We’ve got a real good chance of being in the Super Bowl. We’ve really added a couple of components to our team that are going to help us in the areas where we need help with their veteran leadership and their perseverance. That’s a big factor that some people tend to leave out. You need people that have been there before to let you know that you can do it, to tell you how to do it. It took us awhile, but I think we’re right on our way. hB August 2013 2013 -- H HORSEBACK ORSEBACK M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
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Lifestyle...
What’s in a Name? Well, Maybe a Horse
By Steven Long
D
id you ever wonder just how many college and professional football teams were named for a horse? Not that many, really. We know, of course, about the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts. That’s it. Even the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys don’t have a horse in the equation. Surprisingly, it is also true of the thousands of college teams Horseback surveyed across the nation. Equidae, while represented, was found to be the team mascot
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The Four Horsemen of Notre Dame
of just a few institutes of higher learning. We found some surprises, and not all of them were horses. Take Buster the Burro. He’s one of two mascots of the Colorado School of Mines. Even though he’s not a horse, we just didn’t feel like it was fair to leave the little guy out of this story. Blaze, the stallion mascot is the darling of the University of Texas at Arlington, and how could we forget Boomer and Sooner, the two ponies that pull a little wagon for OU games? We might add that Bevo, the Texas Longhorn steer is www.horsebackmagazine.com www.horsebackmagazine.com
EQUINES IN COLLEGE SPORTS • • • • • • • • • •
Colorado School of Mines: Buster the Burro University of Texas, Arlington: Blaze the Stallion Oklahoma University: Boomer the Sooner Oklahoma State, Stillwater: Bullet the AQHA Idaho State University, Boise: Buster Bronco Western Michigan State University: Buster Bronco Florida State Seminoles: Renegade University of Wyoming: Cowboy Joe the Shetland Kentucky State University, Murray: Dunker University of Southern California, Trojans: Traveler
much, much larger. Not to be left out, across Oklahoma at Stillwater, Oklahoma State sports Bullet as the American Quarter Horse mascot of the Cowboys. Buster Bronco appears to have a split personality. He is the official mascot of two schools, Boise State University, and Western Michigan University. We couldn’t find the name
of the horse Cav Man the Cavalier rides for the University of Virginia, but be assured, tradition has him horseback. A little further south, Chief Oceola rides his horse Renegade as the official symbol of the Florida State Seminoles. It’s a bit surprising a state as rich in western heritage as Wyoming would have a Shetland pony as mascot for its university, but sure enough, little
Cowboy Joe trots his diminutive self out before kickoff. Then there are schools with those unfathomable names that make you scratch your head wondering where in earth the moniker came from take Dunker, the horse mascot of Murray State University in Kentucky. And finally, every time you see that USC Trojan and see that magnificent white horse he is riding, now you’ll know his name. It’s Traveler. hB
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Lifestyle...
T
Tiny Houses
iny houses have hit the American landscape like no other trend in the last forty years. Within a culture that has heaped praise on “bigger is better,” these tiny houses are a cross between Little House on the Prairie and an efficiency apartment. They are small spaces where everything in the home does more than just look pretty. Tables fold out to reveal storage. Couches become beds. That space near the high ceilings become loft bedrooms while bathrooms and kitchens scale down so you can literally reach across the room. No winding staircases in these homes, but simple functional ladders make the top floor ac-
Tumbleweed Tiny Homes, one of the largest builders of these homes, told us that the people who are purchasing these homes in record numbers are as varied as the home sizes and styles. Some are looking for a home that they can own for very little investment and maintenance, while others like the fact that most homes allow them to “live green.” Others like the fact that they can take their home with them, while others see these homes as a perfect vacation hide-away. While their size is small, this doesn’t mean that you have to scrimp on luxury or deny yourself all the comforts of a large home. Each home packs a lot of function and style into a little
Loom Big COULD YOU LIVE IN A HOME THAT’S 400 SQUARE FEET? HOW ABOUT LESS THAN 300 SQUARE FEET? cessible. Perhaps the most amazing thing about these homes is the fact that people are flocking to purchase one. Ranging from 800 square feet to less than 100 square feet, these tiny homes take many shapes and sizes. Tiny houses fall into two categories. Some, are road-ready travel trailers while others have foundations and aren’t going anywhere.
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32 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
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PICTURED...
Opposite Page: Left: Exterior of “Tiny Home” Right: kitchen area of same home Left Page: Top: Exterior of Home Bottom Left: Kitchen Area Bottom Right: Living Space bit of space. From perfect little kitchens to wood siding - from laundry rooms to gables, these homes are just cute. Porches are also a huge feature of these little homes, giving you the perfect space to just “sit a spell.” Prices vary wildly on these homes, depending on which feature you just can’t live without. Tumbleweed offers floor plans that you can
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“Tiny homes range in price from $18,000 to $58,000 depending on the amenities.” purchase and build your own, allowing you the freedom to pick and choose the features you want. When finished, these tiny homes can cost anywhere from $18,000 up to $58,000. It all depends on you and your “must have” list. If nothing else, the tiny house trend is causing each of us to re-evaluate just how much space we really need. hB
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Lifestyle...
Summer Buying Guide
S
ummer is here, which means sun, vacations, and longer days. It’s also time to buy a special gift for you or your favorite ride. Make the most of this summer and choose one or more of the special selections we have found to meet all of your needs.
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August 2013 - HORSEBACK MAGAZINE
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General...
Landing Toe First... miles of tiny capillaries within the foot. These capillaries are not responsible for nourishing tissue—instead they are literally a very complex hydraulic shock absorber. When a horse is, instead, impacting toe-first, more of the impact energies must be absorbed by the limbs and the rest of the body. Toe-first impacts also excessively wear the toes, lead to separation of the laminae, vertical descent of the coffin bones, under-run heels, thin soles—probably also joint problems, tendon and ligament damage and back problems… the list goes on.
Q:
Why does my horse land toe first?
A:
When a horse is at a walk on flat terrain, each foot should impact the ground either flat (parallel with the ground), or slightly heel-first. At any faster gait, the hooves should impact heel-first, and then the toe should roll onto the ground after the initial impact. When the feet are impacting this way, they have tremendous shock-absorbing qualities built into their design. The foundation for the front-half of the foot is bone—perfect for pushing off i.e., power. The foundation for the back-half of the foot is more-flexible cartilage—perfect for absorbing much of the concussion of impact. Additionally, when a horse lands heel-first, blood is forced through
DOES THIS MEAN A HORSE SHOULD NEVER IMPACT THE GROUND TOE-FIRST? No—the locomotive system and the feet are strong enough to withstand some toe-first impacts. Healthy horses use toe-first impacts to navigate slippery terrain, to accelerate, and to travel uphill. This is normal and perfectly healthy. The real damage is done (to hooves, joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles) over time, when the horse impacts toe-first all or most of the time—this is what the horse owner needs to watch out for, as it can really shorten the horse’s usable life. (See Figure 1) LEARNING TO SPOT A TOE-FIRST IMPACT The first step is to recognize how important it is—simply to look out for it. Watch one foot at the time, at the walk, then at the trot. If you have trouble seeing how the bottom of the foot is impacting (common in soft footing), look instead at the hairline.
Viewing from the side, you should be able to see the jolt of impact, and then immediately the hairline will either rock slightly forward or slightly backward, depending on whether the heel or toe impacted first. Just practice, it takes a while to pick it up. If all else fails, film your horse in motion and then watch it over and over, or slow it down. For most people, once you try for a while you will be able to see it. SO WHY IS MY HORSE IMPACTING TOE-FIRST? The most common reason is simple: the horse is avoiding impact on an overly sensitive frog. Treat any frog infections and take them seriously. Most people think of thrush (frog infections) as little more than a cosmetic flaw, but once you understand the ramifications of toe-first impact, you will realize that thrush is a serious source of lameness and quite dangerous for the horse. If a frog is so infected that you have to be careful not to cause pain with a hoof pick, how can you hope for the horse to take a sound step? Another thing to watch out for
FIGURE 1
Learning to watch for heel-first impacts can give you early warning, and help you keep small problems from becoming serious. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot, P. Ramey.
FIGURE 2
Typical wear pattern of a foot that has been impacting toe-first. The walls are worn down to the level of the sole at the toe, while the rest of the wall (and bars) are growing freely with little or no natural wear. The frog is weak and sensitive—a cause of this improper movement, but also an effect. Photo reprinted from the book Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot, P. Ramey.
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is excessive frog trimming at farrier visits. Often when the frog is pared down to a beautiful, slick, pretty thing, the tissue was thinned too much and this may create just enough soreness to cause a toe-first impact. Environment plays an important factor: if the horse lives on soft, mushy ground, the frog may not be strong enough to withstand impact on rocky terrain—the horse may need boots or shoes for riding. Ironically, the easiest short-term fix is to shoe and pad the horse, but this weakens the frog even more over time—sort of a slippery slope to go down, but worthy of mention. In my opinion, adding rougher terrain to the living environment plus booting during visits to harsher terrain is usually the best long-term solution. (See Figure 2) Additionally, there is a somewhat controversial and less understood phenomenon that researcher Robert Bowker, VMD, PhD discovered: the internal tissue of the back portion of the foot (lateral cartilages and digital cushions) can and should
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develop or strengthen over time (depending on movement and terrain) into tougher structures than they could if the horse didn’t get to roam. So early turnout and exercise for foals may be good for much more than their body and mind—it may actually help them grow better, stronger feet from the insideout. As you are doing everything you can to strengthen these soft parts of the foot, there are simultaneously important factors you should recognize when determining the horse’s heel height as well. If the heels are too high, it can become mechanically impossible for the horse to impact heel first—think of how you would run in high-heeled shoes or boots—up on your toes, right? However, if the heels are trimmed too low, the frog may become overexposed and thus cause the horse to impact toe-first to avoid pain. This means heel height trimming is a critical tightrope walk. Too little or too much heel can cause damaging toe-first impact. To make matters worse, the “right” heel height varies from horse-to-horse, from terrain-to-
terrain and sometimes throughout the year on the same horse. Yes, setting a horse’s heel height deserves the upmost attention and skill. Another common cause of this destructive movement has nothing to do with the feet. I have seen lots of horses that are pulled out of a stall to work hard for a couple hours, and then are put right back in the stall. Their muscles stiffen up, and the next day, before they can stretch out all those sore muscles, they are put back to work. It seems to take almost an hour before they get loosened up enough to start extending properly. By then the workout is almost over, and the process is repeated. Stretching, warm-up, and turnout are important. Don’t skip those steps! On top of all this, factors within the horse’s conformation—some genetic, and some accumulated over time—affect the way the horse will move, and also how low the heels should be trimmed. This may all seem overwhelming, but believe me, this was the over-simplified version. My goal here was to make you aware of the importance of heel-first impact and a few of the factors that may prevent it. Take care of your horse’s frogs, and watch out for toe-first impacts. If you find your horse tiptoeing around it is time to act. Maybe he just needs more turnout, maybe he needs stretching, better farrier work or veterinary care. Either way, it is not something to ignore. hB
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Horse Bites - Con’t. from pg. 9
Horse Shows feature the finest gathering of Paint Horses from around the globe. APHA hosts two annual World Shows to showcase the talents of American Paint Horses and their owners. The annual Youth Team Tournament provided an opportunity for youth to work together in teams outside of the traditional show ring. Nine teams comprised of 2 to 20 members each had fun competing for top position in YTT performance classes, hippology contest, a knowledge relay, and a parade of teams. Overall placings and teams represented were: 1) Texas Team Blue; 2) Team Oklahoma; 3) Texas Team Red; 4) Illinois Junior Paint Horse Club; 5) Missouri Junior Paint Horse Club; 6) Michigan Paint Horse Club; 7) Utah Junior Paint Horse Club; 8) Pennsylvania Paint Horse Club; 9) Team Colorado. Once again, APHA hosted a preshow “boot camp” to help exhibitors fine-tune their skills before their classes. Professional trainers—Rob Meneely and Kelly Boles— volunteered their time to the cause. Hart Trailers provided a $500 scholarship to one lucky Boot Camp participant, as well. A new piece of the pre-show preparation in 2013, “Ride the Pattern” offered exhibitors a cost-free opportunity to hear World Show judge Brad Kearns critique patterns demonstrated live in the arena. Ahead of the 2014 AjPHA Youth World
38 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
Show, the APHA Executive Committee voted to eliminate the qualifying requirement for horses being shown at the Youth World Show, which is scheduled for June 28 through July 5 in Fort Worth, Texas.. Find complete 2013 AjPHA Youth World Show results, video blogs, interviews with champions and much more online at ywcs.apha.com. Texas Group Takes Tennessee “Soring” Head On With Resolution Condemning the Practice HOUSTON, (Horseback Magazine) – The Texas State Horse Council, at the request of the Washington based Humane Society of the United States joined prestigious organizations from across the nation to pass a stern resolution condemning soring. The practice of inflicting pain on Tennessee Walking horses to produce a high stepping gait is targeted by the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act which is now in Congress. The resolution reads: “The Texas State Horse Council does hereby resolve to endorse the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act, H.R. 1518. Soring is used by dishonest trainers to deliberately impose pain in order to exaggerate the high-stepping gait of their horses and gain competitive advantage at horse shows. The Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST)
Act will amend the Horse Protection Act to end the industry’s failed system of selfpolicing, ban the use of devices implicated in the practice of soring, toughen penalties, and make other reforms needed to finally end this torture. We add our names to other organizations who are endorsing this legislation including the American Horse Council, The American Association of Equine Practitioners, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.” “Other organizations are urged to pass this or similar resolutions,” said TSHC President Carol Hollaway. Shining Spark is NRHA’s Newest Four Million Dollar Sire Oklahoma City, Okla. – By Hayley Lewallen – The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is excited to announce that 2011 Hall of Fame Inductee Shining Spark has become the associations sixth Four Million Dollar Sire. This historic milestone puts him among others such as Hollywood Dun It, Topsail Whiz, Smart Chic Olena, Gunner, and Wimpys Little Step. His offspring has won a total of $4,041,790 to date. The 1989 stallion owned by Carol Rose is by Genuine Doc and out of NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee Diamonds Sparkle. Not only has Shining Spark led a successful career as a sire but a successful show career
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Horse Bites - Con’t. on pg. 44
as well, earning over $55,000 with riders like Hall of Fame Inductee Bob Loomis and Three Million Dollar Rider and Hall of Fame Inductee Tim McQuay behind the reins. Some of his greatest achievements include: • 1992 NRHA Futurity Open Finalist, ridden by Bob Loomis • 1993 Lazy E Classic Open Reserve Champion, ridden by Bob Loomis • 1994 NRHA Derby Open Champion, ridden by Tim McQuay • 1994 Lazy E Classic Open Reserve Champion, ridden by Tim McQuay Shining Spark’s owner, Carol Rose, was thrilled to hear about the honor and said, “I’m so proud for all of us and for Shining Spark. We don’t think about the milestones each day. We just keep raising foals, showing and trying to do the best we possibly can. We are so thankful to the owners, trainers and breeders that have Shining Spark offspring. We couldn’t have achieved this without their support.” She continued talking about the stallion, “Shining Spark is one of very few stallions that have reached this level with successful offspring in both NRHA and National Reined Cowhorse Association competition. I’m so very proud of him. I hope he knows the impact he’s made.” His top money- earning offspring include: • Shining N Sassy (Shining Spark x Sassy O Lena): $232,600 NRHA LTE, owned by Roxanne Koepsell; 2008 NRHA Futurity
Level 4 Open Champion, 2009 NRBC Level 4 Open and Open Mare finalist, 2010 NRBC Level 4 Open and Open Mare finalist • Miss Rey O Shine (Shining Spark x Miss Rey O Lena): $159,700 NRHA LTE, owned by Bahn Quarter Horses; 2007 NRHA Futurity Open finalist, 2008 NRBC Level 4 Open finalist and Open Mare Reserve Champion, 2008 NRHA Futurity Level 4 Open finalist, 2009 NRBC Level4 Open finalist and Open Mare Reserve Champion • Shine On Line (Shining Spark x Oaks Little Diamond): $110,600 NRHA LTE, owned by Justin Mathison and Mary Jansma; 2009 SWRHA Futurity Level 3 Open Champion and Level 4 Open finalist, 2010 NRBC Open finalist, 2011 NRHA Derby Level 4 Open finalist, 2012 NRBC Level 4 Open finalist • Just Gotta Shine (Shining Spark x Zans Pretty Penny): $103,900 NRHA LTE, owned by Wolfgang Becker; 2001 NRHA Futurity Non Pro and Limited Non Pro finalist, 2002 NRHA Derby Intermediate Non Pro finalist, 2004 NRBC Non Pro Reserve Champion, 2004 NRHA Derby Non Pro Reserve Champion, 2006 World Reining Trophy Non Pro Reserve Champion, 2006 Mallorca Western Festival #1 Open Reserve Champion, • Sailing Spark (Shining Spark x Topsail Maid): $94,200 NRHA LTE, owned by
New Book from Pete Ramey Care and Rehabilitation of the Equine Foot
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General...
A Balancing Act
As
students of horsemanship, chances are, you’ve heard the purpose of each type of aid described in a simplified way, such as, “pressure from the reins slows or collects the horse, pressure from the rider’s legs moves the horse forward”, etc. You may have heard that the inside rein is used to turn the horse, while the outside rein balances the horse, while one leg at a time can be used to move the horse from side to side. The problem with these explanations, is that they are describing each aid or type of aid as though it exists in a vacuum, applied by itself, without influence from any others which may be applied at the same time. While this simplified view may provide a starting point for an understanding of the aids, a more advanced and accurate way to think about them, is to visualize how the aids are used in combination with each other, in order to shape or hold your horse’s body in a particular position, and to move it through space in a particular direction. Once you can visualize this you can then use your sense of feel and timing to balance your aids in order to achieve the result you desire. For example, say you want your horse to move straight ahead, in a smooth even trot, down the long side of an arena. The first thing
you need to do is to identify the position Combining Aids you want your horse’s body to be in; in this case, laterally straight, but bent slightly v e r ti c a l l y, to achieve collection. You’ll give some slight down and back pressure to the reins, at the same time you apply pressure with both legs, at the same lateral point along each side of the horse’s body. Y o u may think that using rein and leg pressure at the same time is sending opposite signals, of “go”, from the rider’s legs, and “stop” from the reins. But by balancing the aids- just enough pressure from the reins, with just enough, (and not too much) pressure from the legs, you can initiate and maintain a collected trot, with a steady cadence, and smooth, even energy going forward. (See Circle of Energy, August 2011 Horseback). You’ll need to stay aware, and adjust the balance of the aids moment by moment; adding a bit more leg, or a deep breath here, or a slight rein squeeze therein order to maintain your horse’s momentum, body position and direction of movement. Balancing your aids becomes more complex when you add lateral bend to all or part of the horse’s body, or use a direction other
to Achieve a Desired Results
than straight ahead. Take the familiar example of a circle- let’s say right circle, in this case. First, visualize the shape or position which you want your horse’s body to take. Your horse’s body needs to bend evenly, from ears to tail, around your right leg. Next, use your aids to mold your horse’s body into this position. Your inside, (right), rein, held close to the horse’s midline, softens the horse’s jay, continuing the bend that your right leg starts at the rib cage, through the horse’s shoulders and neck. The outside, (left), rein, supports and balances the horse, keeping the circle round and not allowing it to collapse. Note: In this case, the reins are not so much turning the horse, as they are shaping the horse’s body around the rider’s inside
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leg, and balancing the horse in the direction of the right arc of the circle. Your inside, (right), leg, simply supports the horse, and softens the horse’s rib cage to the left. The outside, (left) leg of the rider falls back slightly, as the rider’s shoulders turn away from it, leaving it in a position to support the horse’s haunches as they are kept inside of the horse’s rib cage. (See The Value of the Circle, October 2010 Horseback). So how much pressure should be applied by each aid? There is no magic formula, but your horse’s response, will tell you. If your circle becomes too small, you have your inside rein too far back or inside, or are using too much pressure on it. Use less pressure on the inside rein, and try opening your outside rein a bit more. Do not, however, throw slack into your inside rein by throwing it forward, or across the horse’s neck. Keep it engaged, as you add the opening of the outside rein. Otherwise, you will lose the right bending position of your horse’s body. Remember, it is not important which rein is turning your horse or balancing it. What matters is that you maintain the right arc shape of your horse’s body, as your leg aids encourage it to travel forward and around the circle. If your horse is “losing its shoulder” to the outside of the circle, be sure you are not applying too much inside leg, and add a bit more support from your outside rein and leg. Once again, you are balancing the strength of you aids in combination with each other, in order to maintain the position or shape of your horse’s body. For most lateral movements, such as leg yield, or half pass, the horse’s body is kept relatively straight, with only a slight inside or outside bend in the neck. The reins keep the horse’s neck straight or the jaw slightly tucked to the inside (for leg yield), or to the outside, (for half pass). The rider uses pressure from just the inside leg, and firmness on the same side of his or her body to “drive” the horse diagonally across the space, as the horse’s front and back feet cross over each other. The rider’s outside leg, (and same side of body), is kept soft, in order to “open the door”, and encourage the horse to step through it in that direction. (How far forward or back on the horse’s body the rider’s inside leg should apply pressure depends upon the individual horse’s response.) With lateral movements, as with all movements, it is the combination and balancing of all the aids, through visualization, timing, and feel, that makes it all work. Try using your aids in this way, and feel your skill level soar! hB Dianne can be reached at Hill Country Equestrian Lodge where she teaches Whole Horsemanship year-round. www.hillcountryequestlodge.com, or (830) 796-7950 www.horsebackmagazine.com
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Horse Bites - Con’t. from pg. 39
Arcese Quarter Horses USA; 2000 NRHA Futurity Open finalist, 2001 NRBC Level 4 Open finalist, 2001 NRHA Derby Open finalist Round table session achieves unanimous support for strategic plan for Endurance LAUSANNE, (FEI) – A late July round table session on the sport of Endurance, held at FEI Headquarters in Lausanne (SUI), ended with unanimous approval by attendees and full support for the strateg y mapped out for the discipline by the FEI. The 22 delegates – which included representatives from Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the European Equestrian Federation, the FEI Endurance Committee and FEI Headquarters – agreed that, globally, all efforts will be made to reduce the numbers of horses testing positive for prohibited substances and suffering injuries. Following open discussion involving all parties, and agreement that the current rules – when fully implemented – already serve the sport well, the group recommended a plan of action for the FEI Bureau to consider, which includes: 1. The support of all rule changes already proposed for consideration by National Federations and approval at the FEI General Assembly. 2. A series of short-term proposals for
immediate consideration by the FEI North American Int’l Livestock Exposition Bureau, which are: Quarter Horse Show Schedule for Nov. 5-13; • A Global Endurance Injuries Two-Man Ranch Sorting Added Project to be started as soon as possible; July 25, 2013 … Louisville, KY. • Reinforcement of the duties and North American International Livestock obligations of FEI Officials; Exposition (NAILE) officials have • Building on the success of the announced that the giant North America Clean Sport Campaign, increased levels Quarter Horse Show will be conducted of testing for prohibited substances at the Kentucky Exposition Center from across the discipline in all regions. November 5 through 13. In 2013 there 3. The establishment of a strategic were more than 7,600 entries in this planning group tasked with developing a NAILE division. plan for the future of Endurance over the Two-Man • 2 Cups Dry OatmealRanch Sorting next decade, a plan that will have global In 2013 North American Ranch Sorting reach. It will include elements concerning is added to the show schedule. It takes • 1/2place Cupon Grated Carrots the future growth and development Tuesday, Nov. 5. Entry fee for of Endurance, the action necessary to the open event is $100 per team with a • 3 Tablespoons ensure the discipline achieves the highest six ride limit Molasses and a 60% jackpot. Added standards as a “clean sport” and fulfils all purse is $2,000. of the requirements of the FEI’s Code •of 1/2 Cup NCHA, NRHA Brown Sugarand AQHA Class Conduct for the welfare of the horse. Changes The FEI Bureau will be asked to National Cutting Horse Association approve the proposal, its mission, terms classes are scheduled for Nov. 6-7. Entry Combine all fees above of reference and its constitution at its and cattle willingredients. increase $10 to $20, Add enough water to have make into teleconference meeting on 12 August. and added purses gone up soft by $100 If approved by the Bureau, the strategic for dough. the affected classes. Stir well. planning group will present its “plan in New classes are offered in outline” at the General Assembly. the National Reining Horse Assn. oven onThese 365 include degreesNRHA until It is recommended that Place the into competition. golden brown & crisp. group will include an independent Green Reiner Level 1 and Green Reiner facilitator and representation from the Level 2. In addition, Green Rider I, Green FEI’s Integrity Unit. Rider II, and Green Horse classes are also Youravailable. horses will love them! There are three new American Quarter Horse Association Ranch
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Western Pleasure classes. Added purses for AQHA Novice and Amateur Reining classes are increased, and the AQHA Junior and Senior Reining have been combined into one class with an added purse of $450. Other division classes will be similar to those offered last year, and the AQHA show continues to be Triple-Point, Triple-Judged. Complete information about these and other offerings, including NAILE Stake Events, are available in the Premium Catalog and Quarter Horse Show Premium List, available online at wwww.livestockexpo. org. At the end of the 8-day Show run, contestants will have earned nearly $75,000 in premiums and awards. Schedule & Entry Information Premium Lists and entry forms will automatically be mailed to those who have participated in NAILE equine events in the past. For additional information contact the NAILE offices at P.O. Box 36367, Louisville, KY 40233-6367, by fax at 502-367-5305, or by e-mail at KFECNAILE@ksfb.ky.gov. Entry deadline for
the Quarter Horse Show is October 21, 2013. Youth, Amateur and Novice entry packages continue to be available. A special $75 entry fee includes stall fee and a horse’s entry into as many events in the AQHA Youth, Amateur or Novice Shows as are offered. Separate $75 fees must be paid for each horse and each package entered. This offer applies only to advance entries and does not include the drug testing fee. The 40th Annual NAILE is produced by the Commonwealth of Kentucky at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky under the direction of the Kentucky State Fair Board. During the Expo’s two-week run November 9 through 22, the facility’s entire 1,200,000 square feet of climatecontrolled exhibit space is used. More than 200,000 visitors and exhibitors attend the event annually.
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General...
Trailer Lights!
Howdy,
“Summer Time Blues” is an ol’ country song, and since I can’t sing, am going to call it “Summer Time Reds”. Red hot, August in the Brazos Bottom. Remember the “180 Rule” mentioned here many times. When the temperature and humidity add to 180, slow or stop activity with people and animals. Heat stroke is a serious health issue, so take it easy from mid-morning until late afternoon. If working outside keep an ice chest with drinking water and sport drinks (electrolyte replacers) with you at all times. Try to work in the shade and take a short rest to “cool off ” occasionally. Am always lookin’ around for a new way to solve an ol’ problem. Have written about trailer lights before and some of the reasons they don’t work. Some of our flat bed or utility trailers don’t have working lights because they don’t even have lights. These trailers are used on the ranch, behind usually a tractor, and not on state highways or county roads. Same for implements, no lights and seldom on a public road. However, we all get caught once and a while havin’ to use a public road at sun down. Pulling trailers at dusk or dark with no lights is a bad deal especially on fast moving state and interstate highways. Noticed several years ago wreck-
46 HORSEBACK MAGAZINE - August 2013
ers using trailer lights with magnetic bases on vehicles being towed. These lights, amber on the front and red on the rear, are wired to the towing truck and provide running, stop, and turn signals. Great security for a short run home. On late model pickup trucks with a trailer towing package, trailer wiring with fused circuits is included along with a seven circuit female trailer light plug at the rear bumper. The plug will accommodate the heavier trailers extra wiring for lights, and brakes, in addition to the required running, turn and stop lights. However smaller trailers use either a four wire flat plug or a six wire round plug. Four wire systems are used on lite or medium weight trailers which don’t require brakes. The portable trailer lights with magnetic bases I am using come with 20 feet of wire and a flat four wire plug. Found the lights at Harbor Freight Tools, part number 67455 and the adaptor, seven wire to flat four wire, part number 69522, will also be needed. Since I didn’t think the wiring from the truck to the trailer was long enough a four way 5 feet trailer wire extension part number 66616 was added. After plugging all the wire
and adaptors together I now have portable trailer lights reaching 25 feet behind the towing vehicle. The wiring system has its own ground, so to use the magnetic based lights on a wooden trailer, a piece of flat iron in the trailer bed will provide for attachment. The lights can also be attached to the load in the trailer, or implement being towed. Also works great when hauling portable squeeze chutes, calf tables, and portable corrals. The magnetic towing lights, four wire adaptor and 5 feet extension are all made by Haul Master, and as mentioned above are available at Harbor Freight tools. Bought all three on sale for under twenty five bucks, and keep them in my truck at all times. Remember it’s better to be safe than sorry, so when the sun goes down, hook up these portable towing lights and have a safer trip.
Happy Trails!
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