theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 1
America’s Premiere Horse Show Magazine
Inside
JUNE 2015 • THE HORSE CARE ISSUE Natalie Templeton • Double H Farm Brandi Cyrus • Canterbury Farm • Jennifer Bliss Hye Pointe Equestrian Center • Stal Wilten
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Keeping the smiles coming for another happy girl!
Congratulations to Nicole White
on the purchase of Saddle Sold Separately. Many thanks to Bill Schaub/Over-the-Hill Farm and Stefanie Mazer/Forget-Me-Not Farm.
AVAILABLE FOR LEASE Stonewall Last Cloud Small Pony Hunter Qualified for Pony Finals Emily Elek • 920-889-0028
Daphne Thornton • 816-507-5928 • twobitkc@gmail.com • www.twobitkc.com www.facebook.com/TwoBitTraining • www.sevenoaksranch.com • www.twopointequine.com
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Majestic Animal Therapy LLC
Helping your pet live a better life through cold laser and massage therapy. Andrea Allen, nclt, cesmt, ccmt 610-657-9873 • www.majesticanimaltherapy.com
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Kelley Farmer and Mindful won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Showplace Productions Spring Spectacular at Lamplight Equestrian Center. June 16, 2015 • Wayne, Illinois International Hunter Derby Top 10
Horse
1. Mindful 2. Dalliance 3. Kallisto 4. Quite Chocolate 5. Taken 6. State Hill 7. Point Being 8. Lovely Charity 9. Symbolic 10. Corvine
Rider
Prize
Kelley Farmer Kelley Farmer Tamara Provost Maria Rasmussen Kelley Farmer Will Roberts Kelley Farmer Nicole Hiehle Kelley Farmer Piper Benjamin
$7,500 $5,500 $3,250 $2,000 $1,500 $1,250 $1,000 $750 $750 $500
Kelley Farmer and Mindful won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Showplace Productions Spring Spectacular at Lamplight Equestrian Center.
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Ranch, Farm & Equine Contact: Stacey Cinquini Direct/Text: (949) 289-4722 Fax: (949) 429-8097 Email: stacey@cinquiniins.com Web: www.cinquiniins.com Facebook: Cinquini Insurance Services LLC Twitter & Instagram: @CinquiniIns Lic #0G96286 / 0I72676
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Calendar of Horse Show Live Streams www.streamhorsetv.com JUNE 2015 FEATURES:
EDITOR’S NOTE
Pg. 24 Double H Farm Pg. 34 Dominique Hoffman Pg. 36 The Power of Engagement Pg. 38 Birch Hill NIHJA Show at Cross Winds Farm Pg. 50 Jennifer Bliss Pg. 64 Happy Horses are Part of the Routine at Canterbury Farm Pg. 74 Showplace Productions Spring Spectacular at Lamplight Equestrian Center Pg. 80 Armand Leone: Horse Care is More Than a Clean Brush ON THE COVER: NATALIE TEMPLETON AND HER HORSES AT BLENHEIM EQUISPORTS IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA. PHOTO © KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.
CONTACT THE PLAID HORSE: WRITE: Piper Klemm, Ph.D., 14 Mechanic Street, Canton, New York 13617 CALL: 541-905-0192 EMAIL: theplaidhorsemag@gmail.com WEBSITE: theplaidhorse.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/theplaidhorsemag TWITTER: twitter.com/plaidhorsemag @plaidhorsemag INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/theplaidhorsemag @theplaidhorsemag PINTEREST: pinterest.com/theplaidhorse
PIPER PRESENTS THE PONY JUMPER STYLE AWARD TO HANNAH DODD AND BLINK OF AN EYE AT THE DEVON HORSE SHOW. PHOTO © EMILY RIDEN/PHELPS MEDIA GROUP INC.
As we put together our annual Horse Care Issue, I am struck by how many people are doing their best and how hard that can be. Similar to raising children, it can be really tough to determine when to push for just a little more and when to take it back and let them physically and mentally absorb a lesson. Maybe the biggest thing to remember is that almost everyone tries their hardest and acts within their time limits, means, and goals to make the most positive impact they can. There are no right answers. There are no magic formulas. There is no one machine, device, saddle fit, mental game, etc, that can make every horse a winner. We just have to listen to each individual horse, learn from our mistakes and successes, and treat them the best we possibly can.
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2015 Rated Regional II Shows: All USEF, M&S, NJPHA, NJHSA, NAL July 26 •August 30 October 18 • December 5
2015 Schooling Shows: All M&S, NJPHA, NJHSA
June 28 • August 2 September 27 • October 25 November 15 • December 13
Hunters • Jumpers • Equitation
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Upperville Colt & Horse Show, Marshall, VA, June 1 - 7, 2015. PHOTO © GRETA JELEN @E.N.G.PHOTOGRAPHY.
TPH CONTRIBUTORS
ARMAND LEONE, of Glen Rock, NJ, is Founding Partner at Leone Equestrian Law and provides legal services and consultation to equestrian professionals. He has prior service as a Member of U.S. Nations Cup Showjumping and FEI World Cup Finals Teams, and is currently a Member of the FEI Tribunal.
LAUREN FISHER, of Wellington, FL, is an equestrian writer and photographer. While attending Elon University (NC), she served as captain of their IHSA team, graduating in 2007. Lauren has promoted major international events through her work at Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
CAT ALLEN, of Wellington, FL, is passionate about The Plaid Horse Magazine and loves her job! In her spare time, she enjoys freelance writing and riding hunter/jumpers. She also works as a part-time exercise rider/groom for a private barn in Wellington.
HILLARY OSWALD, of Wellington, FL, owns WellingtonElite.com, a website that keeps locals upto-date not only on equestrian happenings, but exciting events in the Palm Beach County area. She is an internationallypublished freelance photographer and an agent for Coastal Sotheby’s Realty.
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Thank you to our clients for all of your support. Wishing you luck in the return of the 2015 season!
For more information please contact Meagan Murray at 847-875-8112. www.buenavistaequine.com • Buena Vista Farm • located in the northern suburbs of Chicago
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USHJA Horsemanship Quiz Challenge Practice Quiz Enroll for HQC at http://www.ushja.org/ programs/youth/HQC_home.aspx 1. A horse that measures 66 inches would be XX hands high? a. 14.2 h b. 15.2 h c. 16 h d. 16.2 h 2. What is the normal temperature of a horse? a. 89 °F b. 98.6 °F c. 100.5 °F d. 16.2 h 3. What is the normal respiration of a horse in breaths per minute (BPM)? a. 1-3 BPM b. 8-12 BPM c. 13-15 BPM d. 20 BPM 4. To determine if your horse is lame, what gait should you observe him at? a. Standing b. Walk c. Trot d. Canter Email your answers in to theplaidhorsemag@gmail.com by July 1, 2015 and one winner will be randomly selected from the correct entries to win a Plaid Horse prize pack!
TPH INTERNS
MELISSA SCHAEFER, 15, of Niskayuna, NY, is a high school Sophomore showing locally and on the AA circuit with her horse Doctor Who in the Equitation and Hunter Divisions. She trains with Megan Rogers, Graystone Stables and Linda Orton, Honor Own Farm and competes on the RI Hunter Ridge IEA team.
MARGOT HIRSCH, 17, from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, is a Senior at the Benjamin School and competes in the Children’s Hunters. @margot_lynne_hirsch
@mschaefer8799
CARLY NASZNIC, 16, of North Kingstown, RI, is a junior in high school who competes in the Equitation and Hunters on her horse What A Star. Her passion is taking equine photos and she intends to become a professional photographer. @carlygirl123 @carlynasznicphotography
MACKENZIE SHUMAN, 16, Monument, CO, attends Lewis Palmer High School as a Junior. She currently is showing in the Junior Hunters and 15-17 Equitation with her horse, Quinn, year round. @1quintessence1
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Oughton Limited Maude Bag, handmade in Florence, Italy. $485. www.oughtonlimited.com PHOTO © KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.
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HARRISON K-9 SECURITY SERVICES, LLC
Offering the finest titled European German Shepherds for your family’s protection. Aiken, South Carolina www.Harrisonk9.com office@harrisonk9.com 803-649-5936 Free DVD available upon request.
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Rachel Kruse Equine Portraiture
EquiFUSE® is using cutting edge technology to create an equine skin care line dedicated to results. Inspired by lifelong equestrians, it is our belief that superior shine is not an option, but a result of quality products. Serious horse care. Superior shine.
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Oil on canvas Original Painting by Rachel Kruse Equine Portraiture www.RachelKrusePortraits.com rkequineart@gmail.com • 972-342-1014
www.equifuse.com/dealers
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This month I’ve styled three outfits for you guys – from kicking it around the barn to the show ring. The best thing about all of these is that everything I have on is SO comfortable, which is a big deal for me. Not only am I in these clothes for most of the day, but when I’m at a competition I especially don’t want anything like a heavy shirt or restricting jacket to distract me from performing at my best. I’m really excited about some of these unique, new pieces from Kingsland Equestrian that I paired with some of my oldie-but-goodie favorites from my closet.
BRANDI CYRUS: STYLE NATIVE TAUSHA ANN PHOTOGRAPHY
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 19
◀ OUTFIT 1 – WHAT I’M WEARING:
Kingsland Equestrian Anissa Training Shirt; Kirstie Technical Breeches; Merrit Low Sneakers; Equine Couture belt. I think these are my new favorite breeches. I love the color, and the fabric is stretchy but sturdy. They have just the tiniest bit of bling on the back belt loops, and the best part is NO velcro at the bottom of the legs. This shirt is made of a “performance” material so it doesn’t stick to you like a normal t-shirt would when you sweat. I added this fun statement belt since it’s a schooling look, and how great are these laceless sneakers for hanging out in?
▲ OUTFIT 2 – WHAT I’M WEARING:
Kingsland Equestrian Alma Functional Jacket; Kelly Cotton Breeches (in Blue Snorkel); Ardley Backpack, Eiki custom dress boots I know the blue breeches are bold, but I think they’re fantastic! The best way to wear something like this is to pair it with a neutral top and keep everything else understated. I’ve been seeing a lot of this royal blue lately in new riding attire, and I think it’s a great look in the jumper ring - especially on a grey or black horse! These also have back pockets which I think is a fun detail. This zip up jacket is a great performance material as well, and easily transitions from the schooling ring into the lower level jumper classes earlier on in your horse show week.
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OUTFIT 3 – WHAT I’M WEARING: Kingsland Equestrian Kamilla Sleeveless Show Shirt; Kelly Technical Breeches, Eiki custom dress boots Let’s get one thing straight – white pants are NOT easy to wear! The key is finding a flattering fit and a good heavy material that still breathes, and these do the trick for me. If I’m going to wear a show jacket, I’m all about a sleeveless shirt underneath. This one has an awesome color blocking pattern and rhinestone buttons from the collar down that make it flashy and fun! I’ve had the jacket I’m wearing for quite awhile, but Equiline still makes them. I love it because it’s a gorgeous, quality jacket but still lightweight and breathable. The buttons are shiny, but black – and my mom had a beautiful Bordeaux-colored collar and lining added to make it special.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 21
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KINGSLAND EQUESTRIAN Shop: 12300 South Shore Blvd, Suite 101 • Wellington, FL 33414 Online: www.kingslandstore.com Website: www.kingsland.no Social: Kingsland Equestrian on Facebook, @kingslandequsa on Twitter and Instagram
Photos © Tausha Ann Photography.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 23
Congratulations to Briana Sukert & Nonchalant – Champion at Blenheim June Classic II in the 3'3'' Junior Hunters and Classic Winners in their first show together!
Mary Morrison Owner/Head Trainer San Juan Capistrano, CA 949.443.1903
♦ A heartfelt thank you to the Nowell Family, Meadow Grove Farm, and Jenny Karazissis for this wonderful horse!
Dedicated to the Goal-oriented Rider
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Technology, Fitness, and Teamwork Keep Double H Farm Horses Healthy and Happy By Jennifer Wood Media, Inc. When it comes to keeping top international show jumping horses in perfect shape, there are a number of new technologies in the marketplace that can help achieve that goal. However, it's not just devices alone that will keep horses feeling sound. For Quentin Judge and Double H Farm, it's a combination of technology, fitness, and teamwork that leads to their healthy, happy, and successful horses. As a barn full of top show jumpers, Double H uses a variety of machines and technology to care for their horses, both with preventative medicine as well as to help heal minor injuries. One of the key devices they use is the equine hydrospa, which is a cold water salt spa. The horses just stand in the water (unlike a water treadmill) and are treated with 34 degree water. “In my opinion it’s the best kind of icing you can do because it gets the whole leg; you don’t miss any spots,” Judge pointed out.“Their legs come out so cold and so tight and stay cold for the next hour. It’s pretty amazing. Older horses that have chronic windpuffs or big legs, after going in that daily for a couple weeks, their legs look remarkably tighter. We have had a lot of success with it on horses that have soft tissue injuries.” Another daily therapy that is used when horses are home at Double H Farm is Vitafloor, a vibration plate that horses stand on to help increase circulation and also helps older horses with bone density. Judge noted that it has even helped with mild cases of colic.“If you have one that looks a little funny, the low wave frequency simulates when you put a horse on a trailer and drive them around when they’re colicky,” he said. In addition to grand prix horses, Double H also has older horses, like the Harrisons' grand-daughter's Children's Hunter, who benefit from Vitafloor.“They’re a little creaky,” Judge smiled.“We put him on the Vitafloor 1015 minutes before she rides him, and they start trotting as if they’ve been going for 15 minutes already. It really seems to help them loosen up and get the blood flowing.”
For injuries and muscle pain or tension, two of their best technologies are Cytowave (similar to magnetic therapy) and UltrOz, a portable ultrasound therapy. Both have been extremely useful in helping the Double H horses stay loose and heal more quickly. When it comes to fitness, one technology helps the Double H Farm horses – the HorseGym water treadmill. The low impact cardiovascular workout fits perfectly into the horses' normal exercise routine.
PHOTO © DOUBLE H FARM.
PHOTO © VICCI VALENTI.
PHOTO © DOUBLE H FARM.
PHOTO © VICCI VALENTI.
Judge explained, “An older horse, or one like my grand prix horse Copin van de Broy who is incredibly broke, they don’t need to be ridden every day. He already knows what to do so well. He’ll go on the water treadmill two to three times a week because then he’ll get a full workout, and I’m not on his back bugging him. It’s a good machine for all level of horses.” Judge also noted that it helps horses coming
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back from injury who can't be ridden yet, but you don't want them to lose their fitness.“They can have a hard workout without the impact of riding in a ring,” he said. While not all barns can have a water treadmill or ultrasound, any rider can work on a fitness and nutrition program that will help bring their horse to peak performance. As a working student for Olympians Jan Tops and Edwina Tops-Alexander at their yard in Valkenswaard, Holland, Judge saw first-hand how important movement was for top level horses. He believes that is important not
well be the key for a horse in a different sport. Judge drew on his experience riding timber horses and Thoroughbreds in Maryland to come up with interval training plans for his horses.“I did a lot of galloping and interval work. It was great for racehorses,” Judge recalled.“These show jumping horses don’t need to be THAT fit, but they need to be fit. I like to use interval training. I do that a lot in Florida on the canals, and it really helps. It gets their wind up, and it helps for them to be fitter. Having the horses move
PHOTO © VICCI VALENTI.
PHOTO © KATHERINE HAY.
PHOTO © VICCI VALENTI.
PHOTO © JENNIFER WOOD MEDIA INC.
only for grand prix horses, but any horse that is expected to perform well and travels to horse shows. All of the Double H horses get out of their stalls five times a day, whether it's for riding, handwalking, or turnout. Turnout when the horses are at home is a daily affair and most horses stay out for hours at a time. While they say “a horse is a horse,” that statement rings true when it comes to the ways that different disciplines keep horses fit. What works for one sport horse could very
as much as they can, and changing it up, is the most important thing.” Judge explained that interval training is simple and anyone can do it with their own horse, adjusting the times used based on the horse's current fitness level.“A lot of horses, it doesn’t have to be galloping,” he stated.“I’ll do trot or canter for 10 minutes intensely, then 5 minutes walking, 9 minutes trot, 4 minutes walking, and so on. By that point, they’re
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having less of a break in between the time they’re working to get their blood back up. It helps to get them fitter. By the end, you’ve worked an hour of intense work, but with the small walk breaks in between, they get some energy back so you can push them a little harder.” Just as important as the outside fitness of a horse is the inside health, Judge said. He and the Double H Farm team have done their research to find a feed that is non-GMO and minimally processed. Just like what health experts tell humans, Judge believes that the benefits of food that has
equine industry, but Judge has opted to stay simple with what his horses are given.“We try to keep the horses fit and strong and do as little as we can with supplements,” he explained. If a horse does have a certain issue, like his winning derby horse HH Dark de la Hart does with gastrointestinal trouble, they work to find out what is going on inside, with scoping by their vet twice a year, before just dosing him with ulcer medication. With that outlook enters the extended
PHOTO © VICCI VALENTI.
as little additives and processed ingredients as possible is what's best for a horse's health. All of the horses at Double H Farm eat non-GMO, all-organic grain from Genesis.“We know what’s in it – two or three ingredients. A lot of times you don’t know what’s in a bag of grain, but we do,” he confirmed. There is often a push from advertising to get the best supplements to keep your horse healthy and in shape. The drive to find the “next best thing” has crossed over to the
team at Double H Farm. Judge works closely at Double H Farm with his wife, Cayce Harrison, barn manager Monika Sprenger, head groom Elizabeth Pedley, veterinarian Dr. Tim Ober and Dr. John Steele, farrier Kenneth Bark, and owners Hunter and Jeannie Harrison to make a solid plan for each horse, taking into account their fitness, nutritional and supplemental needs, mental health, and
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previous injuries. Double H Farm relies on frequent communication with their vets, and Judge says that while the vets may see their horses more often, the horses end up needing less treatment.“We try to catch things early. (Dr. Ober) has really helped us to maintain a level of soundness in our horses that we want to keep, not patch up a horse and let it go to a show and fix it when it goes home. We try to keep them on a level playing field, keep them as sound as we can, and send them to a show when we know they’re ready, and we’re not risking something,” he said. Judge said that what makes their team work is communication and everyone pitching in to do what's best for the horse. Bark is “ an unbelievable blacksmith” who is willing to try new things and take in different viewpoints. Judge explained,“He’s not just going to shoe every horse the same and say that’s how it’s going to be.” Keeping the team to core people also helps. Judge stated,“Probably the most important thing is having really good staff members and people grooming the horses and taking care of them every day. We’re really lucky to have a couple great people to work for us. Monika Sprenger has been our top groom and barn manager for five years. Elizabeth Pedley is our number two. They work in conjunction with my top horses, and we have staff members that work with the other horses. They really know the horses they’re taking care of and really care about the horses. It helps as much as any treatment in the world.” Consistency is key, he added,“They’re looking at their legs every day, they groom them, know their personality. That’s as important as anything else, knowing they’re looking at the horses every day, noticing things, and that they really care about the horses they’re taking care of and that they’re feeling good. It’s key in staying ahead of the ball.” With these core principles, Double H Farm has made their mark in the show jumping world, but more importantly, has kept a barn full of horses happy and healthy. By taking these key points and using what works for you and your horse, anyone can achieve that goal as well.◼◼ About Double H Farm: Based in Ridgefield, CT, and Wellington, FL, Double H Farm focuses on show jumpers and hunters that are born to compete at the top level. With riders Quentin Judge, Cayce Harrison, and Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward, the horses of Double H Farm show at the best competitions in North America and the world. Double H Farm has seven amazing stallions available for breeding through Hyperion Farm, and there is always a selection of high quality hunters and jumpers available for purchase. For more information, please visit www.doublehfarm.org, visit their Facebook page, and follow them on Twitter and Instagram at @Double_H_Farm.
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Katharine Page Devon Sandals in Jet Black. $375, katharinepage.co PHOTO © KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.
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• Dominique Hoffman of Encinitas, CA rode her 11 year old gelding Keep In Touch to win The Plaid Horse Top Scoring Junior award at the the USHJA International Hunter Derby at Showpark on May 8th.
Hoffman, now 18 and in her last junior year, usually shows her flashy chestnut in the medals and equitation, but decided to give the derby a try. This was her first derby, but definitely wont be the last. She said “I have always wanted to do a derby, and I plan on doing more in the future!”. Training with legendary grand prix rider Hap Hansen for the past four years has no doubt prepared her for the tough competition and big, challenging courses that the Blenheim events offer. “I was a little nervous going in but I always try to focus on having fun. I know that mistakes are always learning experiences, so I try not to get too worried about that. I was so happy with my horse and our round” she sad. Starting college at the University of Redlands this Fall, Hoffman will study Business and Fine Arts. Her heart will be with the horses, however, and she will continue to ride as much as possible while she earns her degree. By Katie Cook
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Claudia Freeman and Serenade in Blue finished 2nd Overall, winning an Equitex Custom Plaid Horse cooler.
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Ponies Shine on the Museum Green at Genesee Country Village and Museum Photos by Adam Hill • Within the country village on the historic town square, the inaugural Pony Derby at the Genesee Country Village & Museum (Mumford, New York) was met with rave review from riders, trainers, and spectators. The first event of its kind- a $5,000 Pony Derby at a standalone Derby event- was won by Sophia Calamari and Spellbound, the veteran large pony hunter owned by Ponies & Palms Show Stables. “He was amazing,” Calamari said. “He loves the grass. I think they just love to be out of the ring. This is just so different for them.” With many bending lines, singles, and unrelated distances, riders had to set their own track among the trees (and sometimes avoid branches) and could choose spookier or trickier options for more points (as opposed to traditional high options on a Derby course). “They have to be resourceful in that ring,” said trainer Gary Duffy of Little Brook Farms. “If things are not going as well as you’d like, you have to be resourceful and pick it up. It’s not like in the hunter ring where the strides are designated, and the number has to be correct. Here, if you find one a little quiet you can make a broken line fit one more in and still get it done smoothly. It’s all about being smooth.” Duffy continued, “I wish my kids would have done the derbies as kids and in the ponies. I think this is just another stepping stone to make better riders in the country.” The $5,000 Pony Derby was made possible by the hard work of TSG Equine Events and event manager Brian Brown and the generous sponsorship from Ponies & Palms Show Stables, owned by Leslie Butzer. “Leslie would have loved to have been here,” said Duffy, Butzer’s trainer of three years. “She’s a good exhibitor, a good owner and a good breeder. She does all those things and does them well.”◼
TOP: AMANDA SCHURR & SIMPLY MAGICAL, 3RD OVERALL. BOTTOM: FRANCESCA CALAMARI AND EL NINO HAD THE HIGH SCORE OF THE DAY WITH A 91.
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$5,000 Pony Hunter Derby Top Six • June 6, 2015 Sponsored by Ponies & Palms Show Stables Rider Horse Size 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Sophia Calamari Claudia Freeman Amanda Schurr Kate Taylor Francesca Calamari Benjamin Hoban
Spellbound Serenade in Blue Simply Magical Maroon Bells El Nino Maestro
Large Large Large Small Medium Large
ABOVE: SOPHIA CALAMARI AND SPELLBOUND WON THE $5,000 PONY DERBY AT THE GENESEE MUSEUM AND COUNTRY VILLAGE. LEFT: FRANCESCA CALAMARI AND EL NINO IN THE MEDIUM PONY HUNTER SECTION.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 33
The Derby at the Genesee Museum and Country Village 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
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Mumford, NY, June 6 & 7, 2015. 1. Me Again and Jen Alfano won the $5,000 National Hunter Derby for the second year in a row. 2. Ribbons for the National Hunter Derby. 3. Larry Glefke. 4. Mo Duhon made sure the rings ran smoothly. 5. Kelley Farmer and Dalliance were brilliant to win the $35,000 International Hunter Derby. 6. St. Lawrence University IHSA Team member Alyssa Bokor was 6th Overall in the International Hunter Derby with Carafino. 7. Crowd favorite Kung Fu Panda and Jaime Bates jumped to 7th in the National Hunter Derby. PHOTOS © ADAM HILL/DECASECONDS.COM.
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Tip Top and Jenny Karazissis in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Blenheim Equisports, June 13, 2015. PHOTO © BETHANY UNWIN PHOTOGRAPHY.
$10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Place Number Horse
Rider
Owner
1st Round/2nd Round/Total
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
John French Leslie Steele Jennifer Jones Jennifer Jones Gretchen Lof Katie Gardner Tara Metzner Joie Gatlin Conor Perrin John French John French Jenny Karazissis
Hiller Farms West Coast Equine Partners, LLC Deanna Sage John Bragg Kings Wood Farm, LLC Star Lane Farms, Inc. Tammy Williams Alexis Meadows Conor Perrin Elizabeth Gabler Elizabeth Gabler Hope Town Farms
191/199/390 174/199.5/373.5 170/194/364 173/189/362 169/172/341 179/159/338 166/168/334 165/164/329 166/157/323 183.5/138/321.5 175/141/316 171/101/272
233 641 861 857 562 462 862 887 268 123 119 733
Center Court Deal Maker Trousdale West Street Corduroy Maldini High Five Lugano Gelato Soldier Maritime Undeniable
35 • THE PLAID HORSE
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KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY
JEN WOOD
ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY
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theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 36
As we settle into our tack, pick up our reins and collect our horse, the goal is to engage mind and body and create the power and the energy to perform. We strive to take all the necessary steps to create what is needed for success. But how engaged are we? Are we doing it because we “have to”, or “need to” or because it is our “choice”? As simple as it sounds, the “why” can have an impact on our performance and overall accomplishment. What is engagement? How engaged we are in our task, whether competing or practicing, can clearly define our success. Engagement can be defined as: • something that engages; pledges • the act of engaging; the state of being engaged • emotional involvement or commitment • occupying the attention or efforts (of a person or persons); He engaged her in conversation.
The Power of Engagement
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When we are engaged in a task, we are attracted to it, pleased by it, emotionally involved with/excited by it, committed to it, and in gear toward making it happen. We’re willing, enthusiastic, bought in, and motivated about doing something. All these factors create positive and successful results and the more engaged we are in whatever it is that we’re doing, the higher the probability that we’ll perform to our personal best. Let’s review the framework for assessing engagement in our riding, our relationships with students/trainers, or situations whether it is fear, keeping our challenging horses and commitment to our sport. When we move from “won’t” to “choose to” a higher level of engagement is offered and the chance for achievement is increased. WON’T: I “won’t” engage and/or I believe have no power to engage. Engagement level is 0% to 25% HAVE TO: Involves a short term perspective and a forced power of engagement. You “have to” complete the task in front of you; you “have to” get over your fear; you “have to” perform your best or else you will experience dire consequences. At this level of engagement, we tend to expend effort to get through what is in front of us in order to get to that which we believe holds our success. Engagement level is 26% to 50%
CHOOSE TO: The most powerful level of engagement. At this level, we are more fully engaged because we feel we have complete choice. We are absorbed in the enjoyment of the activity and feel a powerful connection between who we are and what we are doing. Engagement level is 75% to 100% Think of your common “have to’s” or “need to’s” and instead say “I choose”. I choose to accept my horse and his/her quirks and that they can be challenging to ride. I don’t “have to” or “need to” conquer my fear, I “choose to”. Can you feel the powerful difference one word can make? As you prepare for your day, encounter situations that may cause stress, or are asked to try a new and maybe challenging task, what is your choice? Now sit back and watch your success soar!
Happy riding! Cathy Cathy Penrod is a certified professional Performance Specialist with 34 years of knowledge of the equestrian world and has more than 19 years of leadership, mentoring and coaching experience. Cathy specializes in helping riders break through internal barriers, conquer nerves, and take their performance to the next level using customized programs such as The Spur Factor Process and COR.E Performance Dynamics.
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NEED TO: This is a more powerful phrase but still indicates a low power of engagement. We are aware of our choices and seek to find opportunity in the challenges presented to us. We are able to create opportunities, but frequently distractions take us off our desired course. At this level of engagement, we may say “If I want success, I need to do these things.” We know success is our choice but we are not always able to integrate that into our internal belief system. Engagement level is 51% to 75%
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Find out more about Cathy and EquiCoach at: www.equicoach.net cathypenrod@equicoach.net
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38 • THE PLAID HORSE
Birch Hill NIHJA Show at Cross Winds Farm 1.
3.
2.
4.
5.
6.
Marengo, IL 1. Emilie Fruin. 2. Kaila Funk. 3. Tatum Mitchell. 4. Alyssa Heldt. 5. Gigi Kerber. 6. Lynn Greetis. PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 39
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40 • THE PLAID HORSE
International Talent: Andres Rodriguez
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 41
Rodriguez competing at the Longines Global Champions Tour of Miami. PHOTOS © HILLARY OSWALD/WELLINGTONELITE.COM.
BY CAT ALLEN • It was a quiet, sunny Florida morning when we pulled into Palm Beach Point. The show season had just ended and most of the farms had already relocated for the winter. We were greeted by a large, modern gray gate and welcomed into Andres Rodriguez’s fabulous 19-acre Wellington facility. It includes a beautiful covered arena with premium footing, a spacious outdoor field with a combination of typical jumper jumps and cross-country style ditches, and a well-designed open office (complete with pool table and lounging couches)-all beautifully coordinated in a scheme of gray and white, his favorite color combination. Rodriguez, a native of Venezuela, excelled early in his equestrian career—winning the 1996 FEI Children’s Final (for 12-14 year olds), and the Silver Medal in the 2001 South American Junior Championship. In 2002, Rodriguez was offered the chance of a lifetime: to train with the Pessoa family. He uprooted his life, moved to Belgium and trained with Nelson and Rodrigo Pessoa for four years before branching out to explore new opportunities. When returning to the States in 2006, Rodriguez having earned a college degree in International Business, decided to work with his family at an investment banking firm in New York City. There, he continued his passion of riding with Ashley Holzer in the Bronx while working a full-time job. Fast forward to now, and he is a fulltime professional rider with a rising career and many significant recent wins to show for it. At his facility in Wellington, Rodriguez houses twenty horses, six of which he utilizes in international competition. He rides his main horses every day, and his team consists of five grooms, one rider, and his trainer, the well-known Irishman, Eddie Macken. He works with Macken on a daily basis to improve both his own skills and to help bring his young horses along. Rodriguez believes every rider should always consider him/herself a student and continue improving upon his or her skills. His true passion is finding and developing young horses, and often spends his days off in Europe searching for his next prospect. “Getting to compete for a living is something special. It's not a simple job. This sport will for sure put you in a position to doubt yourself,” said Rodriguez. “You have to be willing to know what you're doing, get help if
42 • THE PLAID HORSE
you need help, and do the same thing [over and over] until you get it right.” His horse, Caballito (“little horse” in Spanish) took him to victory in the Winter Equestrian Festival’s $127,000 Horseware Ireland Grand Prix, a proud moment for both him and his horse. “Caballito is one of my favorite horses because he can be a little bit funny and is not the easiest ride. But at the end of the day, he is good the majority of the time, and when he is bad, he always makes up for it,” said Rodriguez. Rodriguez spends his winters in Wellington, Florida, competing at the Winter Equestrian Festival. The rest of the year, he tours around the world, both in the United States and Europe, with a string of his top and up-andcoming horses. “The culture in Europe is much bigger for show jumping,” said Rodriguez. “There is not as much breeding in the United States, and the European circuit is at a different level than here in the States. Show Jumping is the second biggest sport in Sweden and Germany. [At the same time], there are no bigger shows than Wellington and Calgary.” When asked about his personal life, Rodriguez smiled and explained that he is currently engaged to Clementine Goutal, sister of International show jumping rider Brianne Goutal. “We met when I was with Rodrigo
Rodriguez and Darlon van Groenhoeve.
Pessoa trying a horse for sale,” he said. They plan to marry sometime this December. As a proud member of the Venezuelan team (evident in his tack room, in which all his trunks sport the country spelled out in its colors), Rodriguez remains close with his Venezuelan teammates. He is enjoying being a part of the process of growing and establishing a competitive team. To date, the Venezuelan team has won two Central American Games, and consists of 5 riders competing at the 3*, 4*, and 5* level. “The future looks good for Venezuela,” said Rodriguez. Rodriguez is a strong contender for the upcoming Olympic Games and hopes to represent his home country of Venezuela with pride. ◼
PHOTOS © HILLARY OSWALD/WELLINGTONELITE.COM.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 43
Recent Wins: • 2 015 WEF $127,000 Horseware Ireland Grand Prix CSI 3* • 2 015 Split Rock Jumping Tour $40,000 Hollow Creek Farm CSI3* Grand Prix • 2 015 Spruce Meadows ‘National’ Tournament $34,000 Bantrel Cup • 2 015 Spruce Meadows $85,000 ATB Financial Cup
44 • THE PLAID HORSE
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 45
46 • THE PLAID HORSE
STONEWALL FARM
Congratulates
Olivia Galley on her new pony Blossom Hill!
Stardust Pony Dreams on their new pony Stonewall Pretty-in-Pink!
Julia Hasler on the lease of Posh Dressed to the Nines!
Lily Martin on the lease of Worth Melting For!
Emily Elek • 920-889-0028 S T O N E WA LLP O N IE S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I SC O N SIN PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY, STARDUST PONY DREAMS, & LIBBY POLLOCK.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 47
STONEWALL FARM
Congratulates Our Sales Graduates Qualified for USEF Pony Finals 2015: Green Pony Hunters
Medium Pony Hunters
Helicon Country Rose - Small Woodlands Padmé - Small Born This Way - Medium Celebrity - Medium Celtic Melody - Medium Top That - Large Cookies N’ Cream - Large Dreamsicle - Large Stonewall Eleanor - Large Stonewall Texas - Large
Vermont Ruby Fox* Stonewall Nimbus Northwinds Just Josh’N Silly Putty Scarlet Begonia Rosewood* No Drama* Royal Promise* Maybelline Kaptin Krunch* Northwinds Times Square*
Small Pony Hunters Blueberry Hill*
(2014 USEF Pony Finals Grand Champion)
Stonewall Black Pearl Masterpiece Theater Stonewall Pretty-in-Pink* Stonewall Last Cloud Woodlands Padmé Chatterbox* Sir Dragon* Stonewall Sparkler Pip Pip Hooray* Hillcrest’s Lorelei* Clovermeade Babs Bunny* Helicon Country Rose Goldfish* English Princess*
Large Pony Hunters Top That Trigger Stonewall Stratus* Reservations Required* Pretty Boy Floyd Dreamsicle Jessandi Famous Amos* Hidden Springs Woodstar* My Dear Watson
~
*Previous ribbon winners at USEF Pony Finals
Best of Luck at USEF Pony Finals 2015!
Always a selection of small, medium, and large pony hunters for sale and lease. S T O N E WA LLP O N IE S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I SC O N SIN
48 • THE PLAID HORSE
STONEWALL FARM
Offers for Sale or Lease
Born This Way - Medium Green Pony Qualified USEF Pony Finals 2015
Triple Play - Medium Pony Eligible Green
Northwinds Times Square - Medium Pony Qualified Pony Finals 2015
Maybelline - Medium Pony Qualified Pony Finals 2015
Emily Elek • 920-889-0028 S T O N E WA LLP O N IE S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I SC O N SIN PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 49
STONEWALL FARM
Offers for Sale or Lease
Stonewall Black Pearl Small Pony Hunter
Celtic Melody Medium Pony Hunter
Stonewall Sparkler Small Pony Hunter
Reservations Required Large Pony Hunter
Available after Pony Finals S T O N E WA LLP O N IE S@YA H O O.C O M • I XO N I A , W I SC O N SIN PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY, MARIA DONOVAN, & HANNAH HOCH
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Jennifer Bliss piloted Sugarman to a top 10 finish at the prestigious $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at 2015 WEF. PHOTO © ERIN GILMORE 2015.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 51
Developing Champions for Life I have always admired horse and rider combinations that have been able to withstand the test of time in the show ring and continue to win year after year. These tried and true partnerships are inspiring in many ways. Over the years I have become increasingly aware and appreciative of the care and management that goes into preserving the longevity of top show hunters. I have integrated many of the teachings I have learned to develop a program for my own business, Harris Hill Farm, that is as much about training as it is about proper care and maintenance.
WORK SCHEDULE AT HOME: As a general rule, the typical week for each horse in our program starts gradually, increases in intensity and then tapers again. My ideal schedule: Monday: Off Tuesday: Light flatwork Wednesday: Flatwork Thursday: Gymnastics Friday: Jump school Saturday: Flatwork Sunday: Trail ride If a horse is not scheduled to show in the near future, I often replace the jump school with ground rail or cavaletti work. I find that this substitution allows me to practice adjustments and rideability without subjecting the horse to physical wear and tear resulting from the rigors of repetitive jumping. Our program is specifically structured to encourage the horses to move around during the day. Each horse starts its morning with a turnout, followed up with its training session, and ending each afternoon with a hand walk. When possible, we replace the hand walk with treadmill exercise. I am a huge proponent of this activity because it provides a physical workout
without mentally drilling the horses. Our treadmill program alternates walking on the flat with slight incline work every other day A consistent routine at home is very important. This is the homework that ensures each Harris Hill Farm hunter arrives fit and completely prepared for the test of the horse show. HORSE SHOWS SCHEDULING AND ROUTINE I like to schedule horse shows so that we compete for two or three weeks and follow with two or three weeks off. This timetable provides enough consistency for the horses to hit a rhythm and become seasoned, yet provides the necessary time to rest and unwind to stay fresh. By following this schedule, the horses are ready to gear up again and we can also work on any issues that may have arisen at the previous show. I really enjoy developing young hunters and I have learned that sometimes less is more. Green horses need to spend time in the lower divisions to become comfortable both in the ring and with the horse show environment. I try to keep these experiences to a minimum and use them as markers to determine where the horse is at in its training and what we need to practice at home to improve. Jumping too many small fences Jennifer showing Knockout in the Green Conformation division at the Old Salem Farm Horse Show, May 2014. PHOTO © THE BOOK LLC.
52 • THE PLAID HORSE
in the show ring can take away their enthusiasm and “try”. I have therefore learned to not overly protect the young ones. Similar to the progression of our own learning process; horses grow from being challenged in a constructive way. THERAPIES, VET CARE & ORGANIZATION My horses work hard for me and it is important that I reciprocate by helping each one feel their absolute best. We regularly use ice boots, magnetic blankets, and a Theraplate machine and also maintain a schedule for bimonthly bodywork that includes chiropractic and massage. Every six months our veterinarian completes a thorough examination to ensure that each horse is completely healthy and comfortable, regardless if we have noticed any abnormalities in their general condition. I am adamant about maintaining meticulous records of services performed on every animal at our farm. Not only does this routine assist with scheduling, but I can also reference the records to track trends in behavior and/or way of going. I prefer to use a software program called “Stable Secretary”. It is both savvy for the modern show horse and user friendly for the sometimes technologically challenged, like myself! GRATIFICATION ACHIEVED THROUGH REPETITION I think of my horses like family. Some of my happiest moments occur during night check. This is when I enjoy feeding them treats and listen to them munch hay in total contentment while I reflect on the day and make plans for the next. I strive to help my horses achieve success and have long careers, whether with me Jennifer showing Poker Face in the 2014 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals. PHOTO © SHAWN MCMILLAN.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 53
or after they have ultimately progressed to new owners. Creating a solid routine is critical to achieving these goals, as does being open-minded to new ideas. I am always interested in learning how others run their barns and care for their horses. Often, a little tweak from a bit of knowledge can have a big impact on a program and ultimately create show horses that enjoy their job for many years. ABOUT JENNIFER BLISS & HARRIS HILL FARM Jennifer grew up as an active competitor on the “A” horse show circuit and enjoyed great success as a junior, winning such major accolades as Pony Final Championships, Horse of the Year awards, and top ten placings at the indoor equitation finals. She rode under the tutelage of equitation expert Missy Clark, in addition to catchriding pony and junior hunters for such top industry professionals as Scott Stewart, Tim Goguen, Tom Wright and Charlie Weaver. Jennifer opened Harris Hill Farm, LLC in 2008, and in conjunction with fiancé and barn manager, Deywi Rodriguez, has established herself as a successful professional rider and trainer. In 2014, Jennifer was the champion for the both the WCHR Northeast and National Developing Pro Championship divisions and also had a top ten finish in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals. Harris Hill Farm is based out of Wellington, Florida and specializes in finding, developing, and showing high quality young hunters.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT JENNIFER BLISS/HARRIS HILL FARM, PLEASE VISIT WWW.HARRISHILLFARMLLC.COM K. M. Thornton & Co. For further information, contact: Kristin Thornton 380 E. Parkcenter Boulevard Suite 290 • Boise, ID 83706 208.860.4949 Kristin@kmthornton.com
54 • THE PLAID HORSE
Cover Story
Junior Rising Star: Natalie Templeton is Winning with Citrus Hill Farms
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 55
fairy tale story.
which she showed in county series. At the start of the new year in 2014, Templeton, then 11 years old, began training with Robyn Stiegler at Citrus Hill Farms in Silverado, California. Natalie and her green small pony at the time, Posh Ponytail Ribbons, were jumping in the short stirrup division. “When I first started training with Robyn, we sat
Templeton, 12, started riding at a summer camp in Idaho at the age of 6. Upon returning home to Southern California, she begged her non-horsey parents for riding lessons. She rode locally and leased several lesson horses,
down and she asked me what my goals were for that year. I had never really thought about riding in terms of goals or achieving them in that way. I said that I wanted to go to Pony Finals,” said Templeton. Training and showing “Peaches”, she quickly moved up the pony ranks to qualifying and showing at USEF Pony Finals in Kentucky. There she was 4th in the Small
Starting your 2014 show year in the short stirrup and sitting in June of 2015 qualified or almost qualified for almost every major 3’6’’ Equitation Final might sound like a fairy tale story. It is. It is Natalie Templeton’s
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Green Model having already won a class at the Kentucky Summer Classic the week before. “Now, I have other goals,” laughs Templeton. She continued showing I Love Lucy in the Children’s Pony Hunters in
and has put me on horses that help me feel really safe and confident. When I was on ponies, I always got really nervous, but now I don’t get nervous any more. I’m more prepared when I go in the show ring and I trust my horses so much,” said Templeton. Templeton is currently 2nd in the national standings in T.H.I.S. Medal points and has since moved up to the
California for the rest of 2014. She debuted on horses at HITS Thermal 2015 in the 2'9" divisions. By the end of circuit, Templeton was competing in all of the 3'3" equitation medals. “Robyn is such a good trainer
3'6" medals. Since the T.H.I.S. Medal Finals are only restricted to riders who have not previously competed in a 3'6" equitation final, she plans to compete at as many finals as possible this year at 3', 3'3", and 3'6", including the Onondarka, T.H.I.S., CPHA Foundation, PCHA Horsemanship, USEF Medal, ASPCA Maclay Regionals, and CPHA Junior Medal.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 57
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“My goals this year are to place in the Onondarka and Taylor Harris Medal Finals and compete in the 3'3" and 3'6" medal finals,” said Templeton, who looks forward to being a competitive force in the major 3'6" medal finals in the coming years. Looking beyond that, Templeton sees herself in the jumper ring aiming for the Young Riders and being part of an NCAA Division 1 Riding University, perhaps like her mentor and role model Demi Stiegler – Robyn’s daughter – who rides for Auburn University after a tremendously successful equitation career. Templeton and Demi Stiegler now share a special bond since Templeton rides Vigo (Demi’s equitation horse with whom she was 2nd in the ASPCA Maclay National Finals, won the USEF Talent Search-West, the West Coast Equestrian (WCE) Medal, and many more) who has given Templeton a lot of confidence moving up the equitation ranks. Templeton recently got her first jumper, Weopatra and has slowly been getting acclimated
to the jumper ring in the Low Children’s Jumpers. “She’s really fast,” says Stiegler, “Natalie just has to get used to the speed before she can move up.” Templeton works on strengthening her legs and being slow with her body, which Stiegler emphasizes with long flatwork lessons, lots of two-point, and no irons. She rides 4-6 days a week on her three horses on a flexible
homeschool schedule, so she can travel to horse shows and be open to riding. “I would love to do the Grand Prix classes at some point,” said Templeton. With her current progress, we should be seeing her in the grand prix ring in only a few years! ◼
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 59
2014: Posh Ponytail Ribbons • Zone 10 Small Green Pony Hunter Champion • West Coast Pony Challenge Small Green Pony Reserve Champion • Class Winner, Kentucky Summer Classic • 4th Model, USEF Pony Finals I Love Lucy! • Zone 10 Children’s Pony Champion • PCHA Children’s Pony of the Year • LEGIS League Children's Medal Reserve Champion
2015: • Qualified for Finals: • THIS Medal • Onondarka Medal • CPHA Foundation Medal • PCHA Horsemanship Medal Goals to Qualify for Summer 2015: • USEF Medal • Maclay Regionals • CPHA Junior Medal
60 • THE PLAID HORSE
When Buying a Helmet, Use Your Head By Dana Miller • Chagrin Saddlery Whether calculating a fast and clear jumper trip, finding the perfect distance to a fence or going on a relaxing trail ride, keeping the most important of human organs healthy is far from a gray area. HEADS UP, BRAINS MATTER! A properly fitted riding helmet is the most essential piece of equipment that a rider needs. Long gone are the days when elegant black velvet helmets, the kind you might see as a prop in a Ralph Lauren store, were “de rigueur.” Those items of mere apparel, with a tidy bow at the back pointing up for commoners and down for hunt staff, were made obsolete in the 70’s when the AHSA, now USEF, the governing body of horse shows, made wearing an “approved helmet” a rule. Today, helmets worn at horse shows in general must be “ATSM-SEI” approved. The ATSM, or American Society for Testing and Materials, tests helmets worn for equestrian use differently from those for other sports, making modern helmets very equestriansport specific. The testing equipment used simulates a blow to the head sustained by a hoof or a fall on a jump standard. Hand-me-downs for riders should be limited to outgrown breeches and coats, but never helmets. Aunt Betty might have forgotten that her daughter sustained a fall, but the helmet holds a grudge. Once a rider has had an accident involving any impact to the head, a helmet is no longer viable. While the helmet might look perfect on the outside, the inner foam may be compromised, making it less protective. Even if a rider has remained vertical during the life of the helmet, it should be replaced every five years due to the fact that the helmet will degrade over time from heat, sweat and use and may not provide the same level of protection as a new helmet. Additionally, helmet technology is constantly evolving and improving. Replacing your helmet every 5 years will allow you to take advantage of these new innovations. No matter how careful the rider, accidents can and do happen. When sized and fitted correctly a helmet
THIS PROPERLY FITTED HELMET CAPS OFF THIS FORMALLY DRESSED RIDER’S AWARD-WINNING LOOK.
can make the difference between life and death. While you can shop online for a helmet, nothing takes the place of working with an experienced helmet fitter. This cannot be stressed strongly enough. An experienced helmet fitter will make sure the most important areas of helmet safety are covered, size and fit. Wearing a helmet isn’t just a requirement for horse shows, it’s good common sense for any rider. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable schooling helmet to wear on a trail ride or a modern style for the show ring, the only way a helmet will do its job is if it fits correctly. Here are some suggestions that will help you find a helmet that will fit properly.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 61
STEP ONE: In preparation, if you wear your hair in a hairnet, place your hair in the hairnet in the same style as you wear it at a horse show. Hairnets come in various types and styles. My preference is a hairnet that features the knot in the back as pictured. This type leaves no painful dot on the rider’s forehead and allows for a more comfortable fit. If you try a helmet on with your hair down, it may not fit when you finally wear it up. The length and/or thickness of your hair or the way you place it on the top of your head may change the way the helmet sits. Make sure that your hair lies as flat on your head as possible before you try on the helmet. This will allow the helmet to sit lower, and not “on top” of your head, which is unsafe and incorrect. Once your hair is in place, place the helmet on your head *Style note: The show ring is not the time to go temporarily from brunette to blond. Hairnets must match the color of the rider’s hair and secure the locks neatly halfway over the rider’s ears. Helmet Fitting Note: The helmet that your friend wears, although fabulous, may not be the best option for you. Even if you love the helmet, certain helmets fit some head shapes better than others. Be open to the one that fits the best. There are helmets that fit oval and round heads. An experienced helmet fitter will identify which one is best for you.
PERFECT HELMET FIT
STEP 2: Place the helmet on your head with your hair up and check the overall fit. The helmet should feel snug around the entire head with pressure distributed evenly but not uncomfortably. The side of the harness should frame the ears. There should be no gap between the helmet and your head. The helmet should fit snug but not tight. If the helmet squeezes your forehead, it is too round for your head. If the helmet rocks front to back, it is too oval for your head.
*Style note: The model is wearing a Samshield Shadowmatt helmet. This conservatively styled helmet is very popular and appropriate for any riding discipline. A good test to check helmet security is to bend over at the waist, lowering your head to see if the helmet moves or falls off. If it does, the fit is incorrect. If the helmet does not move, the helmet passes another safety check.
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LEFT: A HELMET THAT FALLS OFF WHEN BENDING AT THE WAIST IS TOO LARGE. RIGHT: THIS HELMET IS NOT MOVING WHEN SHE BENDS AT THE WAIST
STEP 3: Check the front brim of the helmet. The brim should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. The visor’s brim should be about 1 inch (about the width of two fingers) from your eye. If the brim sits too low, it could obstruct the rider’s view. *Style Note: While jewelry can flatter any look, in the show ring, less is more. If you are going to wear earrings, make sure they are simple and classic. Save bold accessories for when you are out celebrating your performance.
CORRECT PLACEMENT OF THE HELMET BRIM
STEP 4: Adjust the strap. When you have performed all of the steps above and found a helmet that fits perfectly, the next step is to adjust the chin strap. It should fit snugly under your chin and be sized so that one finger can be placed comfortably between your throat and PERFECT HELMET FIT the throat latch. It should not be tight fitting and cause any discomfort. Adjusting the chin strap is the final step to fitting your new helmet. Although this strap will help keep the helmet in place, the other safety checks will make sure the helmet does not move and will keep you safe for years to come. Once you find the perfect helmet, wear it around the store for at least 10 minutes. If it gives you a headache, it’s too tight. It should become less noticeable and more comfortable as you wear it. Helmets do break in, which is why the initial fit must be snug. With hospital admission rates of equestrians exceeding those of major sports, wearing a properly fitting helmet should be a “no brainer”. The perfect helmet does not have to be expensive or fancy. It just has to fit correctly and compliment your look. Always seek the help of an experienced helmet fitter to stay safe in the saddle. It may save your life. Dana Miller is a partner at Chagrin Saddlery (located in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.) In addition to managing retail store operations, she functions daily as an equestrian stylist and helmet fitter. Passionate about equestrian trends, Dana maintains a busy schedule outfitting riders from all over the country including top equitation competitors and IEA/IHSA Teams. You can contact Chagrin Saddlery by visiting their website at chagrinsaddlery.com.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 63
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64 • THE PLAID HORSE
Happy Horses Are Part of the Routine at Canterbury Farm by Lauren Fisher
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 65
PHOTO © CARASCO PHOTOGRAPHY.
66 • THE PLAID HORSE
At Canterbury Farm, top show horses find their stride with a consistent schedule, fantastic care, and exceptional attention to detail. In between trips to nationwide competitions, the horses stretch their legs on 40 acres of lush green paddocks and spend their days relaxing in the sun in Hampshire, IL. Owner and head trainer, Greg Franklin, believes that keeping his horses in a consistent
PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.
daily routine is the most important factor to their health and well being. Franklin loves bringing along horses and riders at every level through his work as a trainer, clinician, and judge, and he knows what it takes to keep horses happy and healthy on their way to the show ring. “I think the biggest thing for the horses is that they all have a routine. We try to repeat that routine every day, and I think the horses really thrive on that,” Franklin explained. “When we are at home, my horses get a lot of turnout. They spend as much time in the paddocks as they can so they can go be horses and relax. I think it is good for them mentally, and I think it is good for them physically to be out and moving around.” The horses of Canterbury Farm spend six to seven hours free to roam their paddocks on a normal day at home, but on the road, turnout options can be limited.
When at horse shows, Franklin and his team try to keep the horses out of their stalls as much as possible. Franklin and assistant trainer, Caitlyn Shiels, travel with several grooms depending on the number of horses they have competing (usually one groom to every four horses). When paddocks are offered at a show, they take every opportunity to get the horses outside, but when turnout is not an option, light work, grazing and hand walking are excellent alternatives. “It is not necessarily about working them hard, but just getting them out and moving,” Franklin noted. “I would rather see a horse out walking around, whether it be with somebody on its back or hand walking for 30 or 40 minutes, than having to ride it hard. Sometimes we will just walk the horses twice a day to get them moving around.” “It is harder at the horse shows, but whether you are at home or at a show, I think the routine is always the most important thing,” Franklin emphasized. “The horses have to know what to expect. They are fed the same time every day, they are turned out the same time every day, or they go for a walk at the show the same time every day.
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They do well with consistency.” At home, barn manager Margo Lyons is in charge of feed and supplements to keep the horses fat and happy. The Canterbury horses love their Nutrena horse feed and get individual supplements through SmartPak. Franklin likes the horses to be on a daily wormer. He also feeds probiotics and Vitamin E to keep the horses looking and
feeling good. Both supplements help the horses maintain their healthy, shiny coats and keep weight on. Along with plenty of pasture time and good nutrition, any top show horse needs a fitness routine. While the horses keep themselves in shape moving around the paddocks during the day, Franklin uses different exercises to improve their mental and physical strength when being ridden as well. Canterbury Farm has beautiful fields that the horses can be ridden in during the summer, including a derby field with natural obstacles such as a bank, and hills that the horses can work up and down. There are trails around the farm for a leisurely walk and a sand ring for more serious days of work. “We try to keep it fresh so we are not riding in the same place every single day,” Franklin said. “The flat work that we do with them is similar, but we can vary the rings
that we are riding in. Some are flatter, some are hillier, some are grass, some are sand, so the horses get comfortable with all of that. One day we will do hill work, the next day gymnastics or cavalettis on the flat ground, and one school over jumps once a week.” As with any athlete, the horses enjoy preventative therapy to keep their bodies in top form between competitions. Franklin has an equine chiropractor and acupuncturist at the farm every other week. For soft tissue therapy, he uses ice to keep the horses' legs feeling good as well as a Game Ready machine, which delivers dry cold and active compression after a workout. Franklin also works closely as a team with his farrier and veterinarian to make sure they do everything best for the horses. It is these small details that make the difference in a top show horse. Canterbury Farm has a busy season with horse shows across the country on this year’s schedule. They began with a great winter in Florida and are now back on home turf to compete at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, IL, through June. The facility is just 15 minutes from Canterbury Farm and provides an idyllic horse
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show environment close to home. Showing at Lamplight, the horses are able to stable on the grounds when they are competing during the week and then ship home on days off for turnout and rest. They spend a minimum amount of time at the show, but also gain valuable experience with a consistent environment to compete in. “Lamplight is a little bit of a home away from home with as much time as we spend over there,” Franklin acknowledged. “It is great for the horses. It is good for their routine because all of the horses have been to that show, they know what to expect, and they
know what the horse show is like. We are showing in the same rings every time, the footing there is excellent, and it is easy to get the horses back and forth from home.” With a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility, a team of top professionals working with the horses on every level, and great riders and trainers, the horses of Canterbury Farm compete at their very best.
For more information on Canterbury Farm, please visit www.canterburyfarmchicago.com.
PHOTO © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.
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Canterbury Farm Andrew Ryback Photos
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Fit to Ride by Kim Harries Everyone knows how important it is for the body to be properly hydrated, we are, after all, over 60 % water. As the summer months bring rising temperatures, the need to hydrate becomes more important than ever. We look out for our horses, making sure they have plenty of fresh clean water to drink, but what about us? What do we reach for when we are thirsty? As equestrian athletes we need our brains and bodies to work simultaneously in order to perform at our best. The brain and muscles are 75% water, and when they become dehydrated their functions decline. Summer is the perfect time to reassess your go-to drink and see what it’s really doing for your body.
Whatcha Drinkin’?
Take a minute to look at the label of your beverage of choice. If it’s water, the ingredients list will be short. But if you happen to like one of the popular “sports” drinks, or “energy” supplements the list can be long and in the tiniest print known to man, with at least half of the ingredients being unpronounceable. Can that possibly be good for the functioning of our bodies? I’ve taken a look at just a few of the ingredients found in certain popular drinks and have found a few that were quite alarming. I’m not going to review every sports drink out there or call out a few known offenders, instead I’m going to let you do that. Check out some of the additives that are listed below and the affects they have on the body, then go back and read the label on your drink. I’ll let you decide if water with a squeeze of lemon or lime might start to sound a little healthier. Phosphoric acid: This is popular in sodas. This additive is known to lead to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney dysfunction. Phosphoric
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acid leaches minerals from your body, specifically iodine, which affects your thyroid hormone production resulting in a sluggish metabolism. As a side note: one can of soda can have 20 teaspoons of sugar in it, so rotting the teeth should also go on the list. Bromated vegetable oil: This is oil that has had the element Bromine added to it – the same ingredient used in flame-retardants. The vapors of bromine can be toxic and has been banned in over 100 countries. BVO toxicity has been linked to headaches, fatigue, kidney failure, and loss of muscle coordination. So the question here is “what??? This can’t be true, right?” Pick up a bottle of Orange Gatorade the next time you are at the store, it’s right there in black and white. Crystalline Fructose: A more highly processed form of high fructose corn syrup, it delivers a pure jolt of fructose. Cane sugar is about half fructose and half glucose. There is current evidence found by several studies, one recently, from UCLA, that found evidence that a diet high in fructose can slow the brain function, hampering memory and learning. This pales in comparison to the numbers affected by obesity and diabetes. Vitamin water was an easy choice for this one, it’s 95% not vitamins, check the label to see. What about the sugar free versions of these drinks? First, check the label again to make sure that sugar isn’t under an assumed identity like “sucrose”. And then you might see that you were right, there’s no sugar but instead there’s something called “Sucralose”. Here’s some info on this artificial sweetener. The human body is great at detoxifying itself of certain substances, but not so much with organochlorine compounds. Turns out, sucralose is actually sucrose, or sugar, that has been chlorinated, leaving it as an organochlorine compound. To put it simply, your body doesn’t know what to do with it, and so it stores it, and it builds up in places like your liver. There’s actually a Sucralose Toxicity Information Center that has more info on this substance if you are interested in reading further. I know this info isn’t fun, and the pretty colored, fruity flavored, sweet drinks are hard to resist, but the next time you are thirsty after a long ride or a warm-weather show day, reach for good old plain water instead, and see if it doesn’t quench your thirst better than the sugar-filled, chemically-laden liquid. All the best in Health, Kim Harries.
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Barn-raising Campaign Seeks Your Help
TWO ILEHC SUCCESS STORIES. PHOTOS COURTESY ILEHC.
THE ILLINOIS EQUINE HUMANE CENTER (ILEHC) is a not-for-profit organization in Maple Park, Illinois with a mission of horse rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, and education. Gail Vacca, a trainer and an inspiring horsewoman, spent years in the hunter/jumper and racing industries. Vacca was often asked to rehabilitate or rehome horses. Seven years ago she turned this passion into the ILEHC, with the help of hundreds of like-minded and compassionate horse lovers. Vacca is the current President of the program. The ILEHC has recently found a permanent home for their operations on 15 acres. They are now raising $175,000 to build to build an additional 16 horse barn and extend their fencing. “I am passionate about the great work being done by the ILEHC to help horses, and it is my fervent hope that this contribution will inspire others to have the confidence and passion to also donate to this truly deserving cause” said a confidential donor who pledged to match the first $50,000 raised. The ILEHC has turned to The Plaid Horse community to help raise their barn. To learn more about the horses that are up for adoption, about how you can help, or how to make a donation, please visit www.ILEHC.org.
The ILEHC is a 501(c-3) non-profit charitable organization. The ILEHC is a Guidestar Gold Star member committed to transparency and is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
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info@andrewryback.com • www.andrewryback.com • (224) 318-5445
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Showplace Productions Spring Spectacular I 1.
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Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne IL 1. Katie Leverick. 2. Josey Gentry. 3. Wilhelm Genn. 4. Liz Atkins. 5. Molly McAdow. 6. Gia Rinaldi. 7. Kurstin Grady. 8. Lisa.Goldman. PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.
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Q&A
with Erynn Ballard BY CAT ALLEN
Erynn Ballard, 35, of Toronto, Canada, has had an impressive career spanning her lifetime. She began riding at the age of six, and was named Equestrian of the Year in 2006 by Equine Canada. In 2008, Ballard was a part of the winning team in the $312,779 BMO Nations Cup Championship, alongside Canadian team members Ian Millar, Mario Deslauriers, and John Pearce. Ballard is also notable as a successful cross-over rider, claiming success in both the hunter and jumper rings alike. We had a chance to sit down with Erynn at the end of the Winter Equestrian Festival, while Ballard was packing up to head north to her Looking Back Farm in Tottenham, Ontario. Q: How did you first get involved in the horse industry? A: I was lucky enough to be born into the business. Both of my parents are professionals, so I grew up with the farm in my back yard. For as long as I can remember, the most important thing to me was riding, after school and every weekend. Basically, anything else I have ever done has come second to horses. Q: Tell us about your family and their involvement in the industry. How have they inspired you or helped you along the road to success? A: My parents have always been supportive of anything I have ever wanted to do. I have said many times they pretty much just guided me in the right direction. When I was little I don't remember having formal riding lessons. I always had my own pony and I think they just tried to make sure I didn't kill myself! Throughout my entire career, they have given me access to the best horses and trainers I could have asked for. As a junior, the equitation was my dream, and they supported me in it. I was able to work with Missy Clark for two years, and to this day she is still my idol and one of the biggest influences on the person I have become.
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Q: As someone who competes in both the hunters and jumpers, how do you handle the challenge of switching between the two? A: I t is such a unique thing to be able to do both at the highest level. The sport is so specific, and it demands so much of you; to specialize in one or the other becomes important. If I ride too many hunters and not enough jumpers, I feel I miss my moment to be fast enough or in a strong enough balance to be at the top of my game. If I'm riding more jumpers than hunters, I make mistakes on my timing. Then, too much pressure off the ground from my legs, and sometimes a different connection upsets the balance of my hunters. It's a constant reminder to myself every time I get on a horse to feel I can give the horse or the round 100%. I stay focused on myself and I have a great deal of concentration, so I think that may be why I am able to do the crossover better then most. If I had to choose one, my heart belongs in the jumper ring. It's a huge passion and rush to be out in the big ring! Q: How many horses do you ride in an average day? A: I would say an average day is 10 horses. A big day is 18 horses, and a light day would be 3 horses. That's in a show day. On a week off, I like to keep it to 6 horses a day. I'm so practiced at riding so many different horses, it's just what I do. I think riding many different horses is like teaching kids; you have to learn them, understand them, and feel like you can give them the best instruction to teach them to be their very best. Q: You saw a lot of success as a young rider, and continue to see success today. If you had to choose one or two things that you feel most contributed to your success, what would they be and why? A: I wouldn't even know where to begin. I would say first and foremost a true love of horses is why I do this, and it's why I love to do this. There is nothing better then getting to spend my days with them. After that, opportunity and experience in the business is everything. Meeting new people, traveling the world, and always keeping your self inspired to do more and be more as a rider, and as a horsewoman. Q: W hat are some of your favorite brands to wear in the ring? How do you feel they help you perform? A: I am so lucky I have had a sponsorship with Grand Prix since I was 17 and now Essex Riding shirts. So from top to bottom, you can catch me in: GPA First Lady Helmet, Essex Shirts, Grand Prix Hunt Coats, Pikeur breeches, and Konig Riding Boots. I just always feel good in my clothes. I know these companies have a huge amount of support for me and I feel proud to represent them. They always keep me looking good.
Q: W hat would you say your equestrian style is? Are you more of an old-school keep-it-classic type, or are you a fan of the newer styles? What about bling? Do you feel there is a place for it in the show ring? A: I think we all need to make ourselves a little bit special...like a “signature”. My riding attire is pretty classical. I would say 98% of the time I'm always in a hunt coat. Only on a killer hot day if I'm showing tons of rounds do I ever think about taking it off (I'm also always hoping for a great picture!), so I try to keep the coat on. My horses are always braided and our thing is charms. In a braid we always have a lucky charm. Sometimes we use colored yarn or elastics, and I'm always up for a little sparkle on the horses. Q: Tell us about a moment when you doubted yourself. How did you overcome it? What advice do you have to others about overcoming fears and challenges in or out of the show ring?
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A: This is an incredibly hard sport and lifestyle. If you think about it, for every class there is only one winner, so every rider and every level loses more then they win. Of course, there are some that win a lot more then others. It's also a sport where you get better with age. When I was in my 20s as a professional, I couldn't wait to be in my 30s and now my future is only looking better. Who knows what my 40s will bring. At all levels, I believe you need to be motivated to be better, but also remain realistic. Set achievable goals along the way for you and your horse. Recognize all success and improvements you make along the way. I'm not saying don't dream; dream big, but at the end of the day, the biggest way to improve upon yourself is confidence. If you are trying to achieve the impossible, then you will never see any progress.
PHOTOS © HILLARY OSWALD.
Q: W hat is your next big competition coming up? How do you mentally prepare for big competitions and stay focused? A: S pruce Meadows. I haven't been since 2006, and I'm counting down the days until I get there. I'm in a super positive place with my best horse, Appy Cara. I think I just need to believe in him. We had an amazing season at the Winter Equestrian Festival and two huge weeks at an international show in Mexico. I believe it will be a great month in Calgary. Q: If you had to choose only one rider out of the many talented ones out there, who would you say you look up to from a professional standpoint and why? A: Laura Kraut. Laura, McLain and I all rode the same large pony, Polaris Smarty. She told me a long time ago that both her and McLain went to the Olympics, so in Smarty’s legacy, I'm next on the list! I also love her style and her love for her horses. Q: Are there any trainers that you turn to if you're looking for a tuneup or having challenges? Do you feel that every rider should always remain a student? A: Of course. Never ever stop learning. The sport is always changing, and it is important to stay current. My go-to trainer will always be Missy Clark. She's my person. I don't see her often, but she's never more then a phone call away. I like people who I can relate to. I also do a lot
of business with Emil Spadone, and I believe so much in him. He probably helps me the most because most of my horses come from him. I'm not afraid to ask for help if I think I need it. Appy Cara is managed by Keean White [of Angelstone Farms], so we walk all the courses together and when he gives me a plan, I believe in it 100%. I can honestly say Keean White has never let me down. Q: If you had only one piece of advice you could give to all the younger riders that look up to you, what would you tell them? A: Love what you do and love that you get to say horses are a part of your life. There's no better way to live!
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Horse Care is More Than a Clean Brush BY ARMAND LEONE • Whether at home, on the road, in the air or at the show, our horses require care to prevent injury and maintain peak condition. The administrative aspects of horse care are often overlooked because horse owners and professionals feel the paperwork creates more hassle than benefit. Unfortunately, the days of sealing a deal on a handshake are fading, if not gone already. Barn owners, trainers and horse owners must have the documentation for proper horse welfare. Keep reading for some of the often overlooked aspects of horse care administration and documentation.
At Home
At the home stable, both the horse and barn owner should have a written boarding contract. Written contracts protect both parties. Aside from the financial terms and other conditions of boarding, there are health related issues that should be addressed in a boarding contract. The most important pieces of information to be documented and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at the farm are Emergency Contact Phone Numbers to contact the Owner, Emergency Veterinarian Care and Insurance Company insuring the horse. When a problem arises in the middle of the night, the owner’s emergency contact information and alternate contact people and numbers must be readily accessible to the people at the farm. It behooves the owner to make sure that the Emergency Contact information is accurate and up-to-date. Equally important, the information must be at the horse’s stall or in a place designated by the barn owner. It does no good to have emergency contact information that cannot be found in minutes. While a boarding contract may have this information, that contract may not be available at the time of crisis. The barn owner must advise the horse owner of what veterinarian and/or veterinarian practice provides emergency service to the barn horses. The horse owner
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must understand and authorize the barn owner to contact the emergency vet and to take any necessary actions if the owner or owner’s agent is not available when crisis strikes. This authorization should be memorialized in the boarding contract. Although the horse owner may have another veterinarian provide care for her horse, the middle of the night rarely allows such an option. Horses insured for major medical and mortality must include emergency insurance company contact information along with the emergency owner contact information. Again, this information must be at the horse’s stall or in a place designated by the barn owner. Decisions about calling the vet, sending the horse to the clinic and operating for colic create costs that can be substantial. Failing to call a vet and the insurance company promptly can create denial of insurance coverage. Failing to have authorization for an expensive treatment or surgery can cause the owner to have to pay the entire bill. Horse owners should inquire about the vaccination policy and the health paper requirements for new horses coming onto the property. It does little good to have your horse vaccinated and up-to-date on Coggins and other health papers, if new horses coming onto the property are not. All it takes is one horse arriving with a case of strangles or other infectious disease for the whole barn to be quarantined. So, know the barn owner’s procedures for accepting new horses onto the property.
On the Road or In the Air
Since many horse owners participate in competition, travel is a necessary part of the sport. Besides the health papers, a horse owner must know how the horse is being shipped to the venue. Whether the horse is transported by a commercial transport service or the farm’s vehicle, the owner must know there is adequate insurance to cover any shipping injuries or death that may occur. Most commercial shippers have adequate insurance, but amounts can vary. Although barn owners have vehicle insurance for their trucks, the insurance to cover injury to equine passengers may vary. It is best to ask ahead of time what insurance coverage the farm owner has for transportation injuries to the horse. Horse
owners should also confirm that they have coverage under their insurance policy. Horse owners may have insurance coverage for land travel in the United Stated as part of their policy, but that depends on the language in the contract. However, if you are purchasing a horse from Europe or other foreign country, you have to pay for the horse before it is shipped. Horse owners typically insure the purchase value of the horse but must also get separate and additional flight shipping insurance to cover the horse’s arriving flight. It is not expensive and protects against injury and/or death during the flight. If you will compete abroad, make sure your insurance policy covers injuries and treatment outside of the United States. You may need to get a rider for additional coverage for foreign competition tours.
At the Show
While most competitors, trainers and owners are familiar with making sure the stables and work areas are safe and secure, many overlook the importance of documenting the medical care provided to the horse. Because of the penalties for doping under the USEF rules and the strict liability for doping under the FEI rules, all competitors and trainers would be well advised to keep a Medication Log Book for their horses. For FEI competitions, a Medication Log Book is a requirement. The
82 • THE PLAID HORSE PHOTOS Š KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.
Medication Log Book serves as both a record of any medications given and also as evidence of due care in preventing medication and doping violations. The FEI Medication Log Book is available through the USEF at usef.org/ documents/athleteservices/feilogbooktemplate.pdf. While only required under FEI rules, the usefulness and benefits of having a Medication Log Book also apply to competition under USEF rules. However, not all national trainers may be comfortable keeping such a log, and owners may have to decide as to what level of documentation of medication administration is desirable to them.
Conclusion
While horse care requires getting mud on your boots and dust off the horses, the administrative aspects are no less important. By having accurate and available emergency information, by having appropriate vaccination and health policies, by confirming insurance coverage, and by keeping a Medication Log Book, horse owners, barn owners and trainers can protect themselves and their horses from unnecessary injury and loss.
Have questions or need legal help with your next horse transaction? Leone Equestrian Law is available for consultation at 201.444.6444 or info@equestriancounsel.com. Visit equestriancounsel.com or Leone Equestrian Law on Facebook for more information.
theplaidhorse.com • June 2015 • 83
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The Pony Issue Coming up next!
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