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Standardbred Connection Inside this edition: Dressage Big Guns Spirit of the Anzacs UMares
May 2015 Edition Table of Contents Dressage by Lucy Francisco
Page 3
Smokin’ The Trails With Big Guns by Kari Kirby
Page 13
In the Spirit of the Anzacs by Standardbreds Australia Unharnessed
Page 16
Ride Smart, Leave No Trace
Page 18
UMares by Cassie Astle
Page 20
Rattles Ride for Cancer
Page 22
Visiting the KY Horse Park
Page 22
My Racing Under Saddle Experience by Stephanie Jacobs
Page 23
VIP - Behind the Scenes Pass by Kathleen Haak
Page 24
The Standardbred Connection is a free, online magazine dedicated to Standardbreds who are trotting, racking or pacing their way through the public eye. Interested in learning more about us or contributing to the magazine? Our website is www.TheStandardbredConnection.com. We can also be found on Facebook. Studs Hooligan (aka Strider) and Amanda Munson compete through first level dressage. Cover image by Kelli Reynolds.
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Dressage
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ressage is often compared to dancing on horseback and is a sport that requires discipline, concentration and as with any equine sport, hard work. It is a sport in which the horse and rider combination are expected to perform a series of movements as specified by the particular test that they are performing. Tests range from walk-trot up through to FEI level tests, thus allowing everyone from beginners to more advanced and professional riders the ability to partake in the sport of dressage. Each test allows the rider to demonstrate the levels of training they have achieved with their equine partner.
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Each dressage test will have a prescribed series of movements which must be followed and each of these movements is evaluated by a judge. Each movement is scored on a scale from 0 to 10 with a zero being assigned if the movement is not executed and 10 being “excellent�. The overall score for each test is given as a percentage. There are also marks allocated for freedom and regularity of gaits, impulsion, submission and rider. Comments will be given alongside the marks, thus allowing riders to be aware of areas that they could possibly improve upon, as well as areas in which they and their equine partner excel.
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Dressage test are performed in either a small 20 x 40 metre ring or a standard 20 x 60 m ring. Letters are positioned at various points around the ring to indicate where a movement is to be performed as is indicated in the test. Each test begins with the rider entering at A and then proceeding through the movements. At lower levels, the rider is allowed a test caller who will read out the movements to be performed and the letter at which these movements are to be performed at.
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Written by Lucy Francisco
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The basic beginner test will require rider to perform a series of walk-trot transitions, trot circles and halts for a walk-trot test and trot-canter transitions, and canter circle for training level tests. As riders progress through the levels, it will be expected that they perform more complex movement such as leg yields, shoulder-in, piaffe and passage, all movements which will require greater collection which come from a higher level of training. Some dressage competitions will also offer the option of completing a freestyle test. This is a test which has been choreographed to music. The pattern can be decided upon by the rider or his/her coach but must include certain movements for the level the rider is competing at. These movements may include passage, pirouettes, half-pass, etc. Riders are awarded technical points for the move- Author Lucy Francisco warms up Midnight Dream ments and level of difficulty of the routine as well (aka The Town Terra) before her test. Photo by artistic points. Jorge Francisco Standardbreds can make a very suitable mount for dressage. Some extra work and patience is required when retraining a pacer as a dressage horse in order to develop a nice collected trot and canter, however it can be done and prove to be very rewarding for the rider. Some Standardbred breed shows will make the exception of allowing a standardbred to pace instead of trot for the trotting portion of a test, however open shows do require that the horses perform in a consistent trot as breaking pace will lead to a lower score for both the individual movement as well as the mark for overall gait. Standardbreds have been making their way into the dressage show ring over the past few years, as more riders and trainers begin to see the versatility of the breed and their abilities in the dressage ring.
Three Socks and Katie Ogden practice sholders in at home. “Three,� as he is know, competed successfully through second level and school third level movements before being retired at age 19.
Breed specific shows such as the Ontario Standardbred Show series (Ontario, Canada) as well as the National Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization (Allentown, New Jersey) and the World Standardbred Show (Sunbury, Ohio) all offer an excellent showcases of Standardbreds competing in dressage. They also offer an excellent way for an individual with a Standardbred to start out in dressage and then branch out into open breed shows where Standardbreds can be found competing against the more traditional warmblood breeds seen in the dressage ring.
Whiz Bang and Sea of Gray perform a pas de deux dressage demonstration at the World Equestrian Games in 2010. Photo by Shutter Savey Images Whiz Bang and Sea of Gray are two Standardbreds trained by US dressage trainer Heather Cudill who have both achieved championships through the United States Dressage Federation (USDF). Whiz Bang was a pacing mare retired at the age of 4 by her owner Tina Bombardo. In 2007 she was the first Standardbred horse in history to win an USDF award for her achievements in the sport of dressage. She has since gone on to win numerous other awards including the 2008 1st level championship, 2010 2nd level championship and the 2010 2nd level musical freestyle championship. Sea of Gray (Luna) made her name known in the dressage world by winning numerous USDF awards for her accomplishments in the ring. The mare won the 2008 USDF All Breed Training level championship in 2008 and was the 2009 1st level champion. Both mares also took part in the Standardbred breed demonstration at the 2010 World Equestrian games in Lexington Kentucky which demonstrated the versatility of the breed through demonstrations of various equestrian disciplines.
Left: Regal Cullen (aka ‘Boo’) and Elaine van den Berg from New Zealand at the Auckland Regional Dressage Championships. Photo by Christina Bird Photography.
RTS Its His Fault (aka Alex) at Jackpot. Ridden by Nicole Tas after racing program, Raising
Corinna Beckmore and Aurelian. 19yo Gelding, competing Novice/Elementary at Alexander Park Dressage Club. Photo by Elizabeth Hutchings
Right - Nikki Mihulka and Nos Acov (aka Cody) at the Association for Trotters Exiting Racing (AFTER) dressage series in Australia. Photo by Trapnell Creations.
t the Lancefield Dressage ssone for the Australian life the Standards.
Arniwho (aka Arnie) at Dressage comps at Alexander Park Dressage Club & Watagan Dressage Club. Owned and ridden by Ingrid Darlington. Photo by Lyn Darlington
Amie Double on Felix (registered name Havilah Lad) at the Camden Equitation Inc dressage competition in Australia. Photo by Elaine Robl.
Above: Bethany Stainsby and BJ’ extended trot at the New Moors E
Right: Eliza Banks riding JB (Jam Standardbred Show in Allentown,
Photographer Christie DIBernardi
Left: BJ (Hillays Conquest) ridden Stables, a STB retraining facility i Ontario, Canada.. He won reserv Oxer Stables Standardbred show
Photo by Dan Waldram Photogra
Gone to Carolina, owned by Amy Higgins, ridden by Kathleen Bailey in preparation for the Safe Haven Dressage Show in Maine. Photo by Susan Degozzaldi
’s Dream (aka Ellie) show off their Equestrian Centre in the UK.
mbalayabar Man) at the National , NJ.
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n on behalf of Go and Play in the Kawartha Lakes region of ve champion dressage at the w.
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Additional Information about Dressage Traditional dressage has always enjoyed a high level of followers but did you know that there is more than one kind of dressage?
Driven Dressage Like ridden dressage, driven dressage has multiple levels - from training all the way through FEI levels. At the training level judges are looking for the foundation skills that are key to building a good driving horse. The tests, provided by the American Driving Society, leave you little doubt as to what the judge is looking for: Gait - Freedom and regularity. If team or pair: maintenance of even pace and equality of work. Impulsion - Desire to move forward. Elasticity of steps. Relaxation of back. Engagement of hindquarters. Submission - Acceptance of the bit. Correctness in lateral bend. Attention and confidence. Calmness, lightness and ease of movements Driver - Use of aids, handling of reins, whip and voice. Driver’s position. Driven dressage is most commonly found in correlation with combined driving events (similar to three-day eventing), horse driving trials (the equivalent of a horse trial) and arena driving trials. Occasionally it is offered at open pleasure shows.
Equestrian Federation and the Western Dressage Assoc. of America (USEF Approved Affiliate). Regardless of which organization you go with they are looking to create “a better relationship and training your horse to understand and accept your aids and cues.” Judges are looking for the same foundation skills as traditional dressage and driven dressage with changes to showcase the skills of a working western horse. While the United States Dressage Federation does not recognize western dressage you may find a local dressage or horse trial show organizer offering a few classes as the same judges can be used at the lower levels.
Gaited Dressage Gaited dressage is slowly making itself known within the gaited horse community. Again, the basic principles of rhythm, relaxation, suppleness, connection, impulsion, and collection are desired, however allowances are made for the difference in gaits. In 2015, the North American Western Dressage is offering a new virtual show program called “Gaits Wide Open”. While focused on walking horses, the program is reportedly open to all gaited breeds.
Western Dressage Western dressage came into its own following the 2010 World Equestrian Games opening ceremony where Eitan Beth-Halachmy wowed the crowd with Cowboy Dressage®. Currently there are multiple groups currently promoting Western dressage in the United States. Draken performing training level driven dressage at Leading the way however is the United States the Saratoga Driving Trial.
Jaci Payne and Crimson Jiffy show internationally in a variety of classes including western dressage. Located in Ontario, Canada the pair have competed at the World Standardbred Show in Ohio.
Jackie Imeson and Smilesandlaughter perform western dressage. Jackie has also traveled internationally to show her Standardbreds.
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SMOKIN’ THE TRAILS WITH
BIG GUNS
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his year marks the 11th Anniversary of Smokin’ The Trails With Big Guns (Big Guns for short). Big Guns was initially held at Richard and Teresa Moore’s farm, Double M, in Sulligent, Alabama. It was a hit, so it was moved to a larger place at Circle S in Beaverton, Alabama the next year. The event soon outgrew Circle S, so it was moved to Circle E in Belvidere, Tennessee for a couple of years. Another event, Smokin’ The Trails, had been held in Indiana for several years by Chris and Sue Laney. The Moore’s and Laney’s were close friends so they decided to combine their events, hence the name Smokin’ The Trails With Big Guns, and have it in a central location. For the last 4 years, it has been held at Eastfork Stables in Jamestown, Tennessee on the edge of the Appalachian Mountains right in the middle of horse country. A 450 foot ‘track’ is marked off in the parking lot for all of the classes in the event which include Crowd Favorite, 2 Year Old Best Gaited, 3 Year Old Best Gaited, Youth Racking, Best Gaited, Speed Racking, Total Package, and new this year was the Rackin’ Rhythm class. The Rackin’
Rhythm was judged by 3 blindfolded judges who voted for the squarest sounded gaited horse based on it’s footfalls. On arrival, the strip was already jumping as the campers and participants were having fun warming up, practicing, or simply showing off their beautiful horses. Several of the campers had gone out on a trail ride to enjoy the beautiful scenery and trails in the mountains around Jamestown. Many have found that their Standardbred is a versatile breed that has many talents and not only used for racing. The big day was moved from Saturday to Friday, due to impending rain and thunderstorms predicted to arrive on Saturday. There was a riders meeting early that morning to go over the rules and answer any questions for the classes. A great time was had by all and no one went home without seeing some good clean horse racing, prancing, and parading fun with some of the best gaited horses to be found in the United States.
The Standardbred is gaining popularity in Racking Horse, Tennessee Walking Horse, and other gaited events such as Big Guns, Racking On The Edge, Rattlesnake Rack N Roll & Pace, etc., which requires a robust, hardy horse with a good disposition, and most importantly, speed. Few gaited breeds have the ability to travel in a four beat gait at speeds over 20 miles per hour. Standardbreds retired from the track, or those that are not qualified to race, are showing great promise in being retrained to rack and trail ride as well as the hunter/jumper events we have seen them excel in. They are also being bred and dubbed ‘homegrown’ Standardbreds for the same purpose. The results of this years ‘Big Guns’ seems to support this trend. Seven of the nine classes boasted winners that were Standardbreds. Below are some interesting facts on the winners of those classes and their owners. Crowd Favorite: Chad Angle from Foristess, MO on Cajun Bones, Standardbred. Bones registered name is B.I.T.S. Storm Warning from Back In The Saddle Stable in Louisiana. He is a 9 year old Bay ½ Standardbred, ½ TWH gelding that his owners say was ‘the skinniest horse we had ever seen’ when they bought him sight unseen. He has obviously recovered nicely and is much loved.
Speed Racking Champion (24 Entries) Tony Smith from Churchill, TN on Ed. Ed’s registered name is He Shines. He is a 9 year old Bay Pacing Bred Standardbred sired by Space Shuttle from an Ohio sale. He had been lightly harness raced, but loves the straitaway races and is also an incredibly smooth trail ride as well. His other wins since owned by Tony, who trains and breeds singlefooters and Standardbreds, include: 2011 Big Guns Speed Champion, 2013 Big Guns Speed Champion, 2014 Racking On The Edge Men’s Speed Racking Champion.
Winners of the youth classes were: Crowd Favorite, Ivey Hart on Gold Express, owed by Tracy Vicars Hart of Honaker, VA. Youth Racking, Alyssa Moore on Cupid’s Virginia Secret, Brookesville, FL. Cupid is a golden palomino Rowdy bred stallion. His dam is a Saddlebred & sire is Stonewall Jackson from the Cupid’s Arrow Stallion off of Rowdy Rawhide. Congratulations to all the winners and runner’s up! You did a great job, along with the several hundred other participants, entertaining a huge audience of fans of wonderful, gorgeous horses. ***************************************** Article and photos provided by Kari Kirby of Blissful Gaits Farm.
2 Year Old Champion (23 Entries) Cornelius Belton of Jennings, LA on Million Dollar Dream. Dream is a Bay trotting bred Standardbred from Houston, TX & owned by a friend of Cornelius’.
Save the Date! Smokin’ The Trails at Big Guns April 28-May 1st 2016
3 Year Old Champion (11 Entries) Scotty Horne on Dirt Road Diva, from Nickelsville, VA. Diva is ¾ Buckskin Standardbred out of the Standardbred, Betty’s Towner & off of a buckskin stallion named Big Jake, who is part Saddlebred from Virgina. Diva just turned 3 on the day of the race! Scotty trains horses and gets them flyin’ under saddle on Cedarpoint Farms in VA.
Below: Best Gaited Champion (44 Entries) Todd John from All N Stables, Houma, LA on Enterprise. Enterprise is a 4 year old Bay trotting bred Standardbred. He is 16.3H tall and is out of Daisy Mae Hershey & off of Pizzazzed from Valley Standardbreds in Sherman, IL. Rackin’ Rhythm Champion (30 Entries) Todd John, Houma, AL on Enterprise (see above) Total Package Champion (Invitation only) Todd John, Houma, LA on Enterprise
In the
Spirit of the
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Anzacs arriage driving enthusiast Max Pearce has been involved in the equine industry his entire life.
Three riders control the six horses, each riding the left horse and controlling the right hand side with a single rein.
Despite his recreational pursuit of choice, however, the Goulburn horseman is first to admit Standardbreds have not always been high on his list of preferred breeds.
All harnesses are original, and the team was trained using an authentic English Landau (fourwheel convertible carriage) which is more than 120 years old.
“I’ve shown a lot of horses over the years but I was never a Standardbred person,” he acknowledged.
The mounted rider/drivers and team helpers are all either serving Australian Army personnel, retired military men or have a close connection. “It’s a wonderful story for the Standardbreds who have been chosen,” Max said.
“What I’ve seen over the past few months has really impressed me though, in fact the horses I’ve been working with have been absolutely unbelievable. “We have asked so much of them, and they have just been so, so good – it’s opened my eyes.” Max has been the lynch pin in a unique historical project which reaches a crescendo at the centenary of ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) commemorations at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. The April 25 parade will feature a stunning horse drawn 18 pound gun and limber (a carriage which supports a cannon during transportation) from World War One. The eight member postillion team (six plus two reserves) is comprised exclusively of retired Standardbreds brought in from all parts of New South Wales and trained under Max’s expert guidance.
“We’ve worked our way through quite a number of horses in the process of putting the team together but the Standies across the board have done very well. “We had some pretty specific requirements – they had to have the right temperament, as well as be capable of being ridden, plus the gun is obviously very heavy and when we stop on hills for example the team has a lot of drag pulling back on it,” he explained. “I’m so proud of how well it has all come together, it just looks fantastic.” One of the best performed members of the team is Darpoolmans Brother, a seven-year-old gelding by Brioso Hanover who notched 11 wins, 25 placings, $51,940 in stake earnings and a best winning time of 1:55 on the racetrack before retiring in
In contrast, five-year-old Jeremes Jet gelding Hurricane Hercules – who is the youngest horse in the cast – managed a solitary R0 class victory at Albion Park, Queensland from his 21 race starts. The stunning gun and limber ensemble made its public debut on March 15, in the annual Goulburn Heritage Parade which celebrates Australia’s first inland city. The parade served as a trial run for the team in preparation for its much anticipated Anzac Day appearance at the Australian capital. It will subsequently feature at significant military remembrance ceremonies and World War One commemorations until the conclusion of the Anzac Centenary Project in 2018.
***************************************** Article and photos courtesy of Standardbreds Australia Unharnessed
Ride Smart, Leave No Trace
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s horse enthusiasts we love being outdoors and are often concerned about recreational horse use on public lands. Being a responsible trail rider is one way to help keep those lands open. Here are some tips, provided by the Pennsylvania Horse Council, on how to be a good trail steward and ride with minimum impact to the land.
Stay on the Trail • • • • • •
Don’t cut switchbacks or take shortcuts. Try to keep animals in a single file on the trail. Loose animals can stray off the trail and cause trail damage. Repair and clear trail if needed to avoid detours. Don’t run horses, for safety reasons and other visitors. When meeting other animal users, whoever can get off the trail easiest should do so. Step to the down hill side. **When you meet hikers or bikers be courteous and take time to talk to them. **Explain the advantage if they stand on the downhill side. Horses are prey animals and will move away from something they are afraid of. • When stoping for lunch, cross tie or highline horses facing and well off the trail, hobble if necessary. • Watch wildlife from a distance
Minimum Impact Philosophy: Disquise the sight and sound of your passage, leaving no sign that you were ever there.
Trail Courtesy • Maintain a horse-length between you and the next horse. Don’t tailgate. • Don’t trot or run pass others. If you must pass, tell the person which side you are passing on and do so carefully. • When allowing horses to drink, stay in single file and wait until finished before proceeding. • If someone has trouble, be considerate. If you have trouble, call ahead to others to wait. Impatient horses can be dangerous if left behind. Don’t ride off until all are mounted. • Be friendly and courtous to other trail users and support multiple uses of trails. • Safety helmets are recommended, especially with children. • Make sure all equipment (saddle, bridle, breast collar, crupper, etc) is in good repair and fits properly. • Be prepared for weather conditions. • Dogs should be under control and only off leash in designated areas. Not all horses are accustomed to dogs. • Carry on the rider - hoofpick, knife and cell phone. Other items to carry include first aid kit, insect repellent for horse & rider, halter & lead, compass, whisle, water and matches.
Keep in mind that your Standardbred may have been primarily worked on a flat track. Streams, downed trees and hills may be new to them. • Is weed-seed free feed required? If so, start feeding 24-hrs prior to arrival to insure weed free manure. • Report to the Forest Service (or appropriate land caretaker) trail conditions - so they can either repair or notify other users or any bad spots or endangered species • Clean up trailhead - leave it cleaner than you found it. Take manure, hay and garbage with you when you leave.
Going alone? Make sure someone knows where you are going and when to expect you back. Primary photo: Helene Gregory, along with her dogs and STB JB, enjoying a lake in New Jersey. Photo by Susan Whitman Photo to left: Dizzy Miss Lizzy and Shannon Budnick stay safe on the roads in New York. Top photo: Unbridled Emotions (aka RC) isn’t sure about the stream. Shaina Weitkemper owner and photo provider.
UMares I
n most college courses, students are assigned a textbook. For the Equine Management Cooperative class at the University of Maine, students are assigned a horse. This unique course uses donated Standardbred mares as a teaching tool to allow students the opportunity to train a horse and learn hands-on veterinary techniques. Currently, the JF Witter enter (the UMaine livestock facility) houses 13 mares and one stallion that have all been trained for harness racing but now need a new career. The Standardbred retraining program at UMaine emerged in 1998, developed by Dr. Robert Causey and Dr. Jim Weber. There is a constant source of suitable horses due to the proximity of the Bangor Raceway where sulky races are held. The Equine program accepts donations of Standardbred mares, under the age of ten, that are sound and have a tractable temperament. Most of them did race and have either been retired, or deemed not competitive enough for racing.
that they don’t. The breed has been genetically focused to have a strong trot or pace, so the quality of the canter sometimes suffers, but they are all capable of cantering and do so naturally. The UMares, as they are affectionately called, are also used as mounts for the University Drill Team. Riders on the team ride the UMares in performances all over the state at horse shows, racetracks and local fairs. The Drill Team riders and students in the co-op class work in the barn doing daily stable chores. Each week they have training sessions with Cassie Astle, the equine trainer, where the progress of the horse is evaluated and new exercises are assigned for the student trainers to practice during the week.
The success of the program is due to the donors generosity and concern for the horses’ well-being that they are willing to donate the horses rather than try to sell them but also because of the students’ dedication. Many times, students will end up doing extra work with their assigned horses and Roadshow Hall, the resident stud, raced for 7 spend any free time at the barn. The best outcome years and earned nearly a half million dollars. His is when a student becomes so bonded with his or lifetime mark is 1:57:2 which is made even more her assigned mare that the horse ends up being impressive because it was on a half-mile track purchased by, and “graduating” with that student. which means the horse has to 4 turns to make rather than 2 on an mile track. The University has The Standardbred retraining program not only owned 3 race horses (Venus Of Milo, One Vine gives the students hands-on experience, but it Lady and Pembroke Whiteout) since the inception benefits the horses as well. They get excellent care of the program. Any winnings the racing mares while in the program and after 3 years are sold to have procured have gone right back into the pro- good homes. What’s better than going to school gram to care for the horses in the Witter barn. and doing homework on the back of a horse? Training an ex-harness racer to ride is not much different from training any other horse to ride. The biggest hurdle is that the Standardbred have been specifically trained to not canter so they get a little confused when the trainer begins to ask for it. Standardbreds CAN canter, it is a misconception
***************************************** Article and photo provided by Cassie Astle
The University Drill Team practices hard to represent their school with pride. They have drilled in front of crowds at University of Maine in Orono, the Hollywood Casino Raceway in Bangor, during the Maine Animal Club Spring Fling Horse Show at the Witter Center in Old Town, and the graduating Senior students have done a ride each year at Witter the day before graduation. Additionally, they have performed at the Downeast Horse Show in Skowhegan, the Common Ground Fair in Unity and Scarborough Downs racetrack in Scarborough, Maine.
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ue to health reasons my journey around Australia is finishing. Also the next leg of my trip are in drought and there is no water for miles away. I have completed half the country and it has been exciting to meet all walks of life. I have been overwhelmed with the help that I received from people across our country thanks to those who helped me I would not have gone this far without you all. Matt and Paddy (both Standardbreds) will be going back to Western Australia to be retired on a property in Boyup Brook. They deserve it, my heroes. The trip has been hard but well worth it. I have raised, with your help, nearly $60,000 for cancer research. - Ian Retallack (aka Rattles)
Headed to the Kentucky Horse Park this summer? The KY Horse Park in Lexington, KY is home to Trotter Mr. Muscleman, and Standardbred Pacers Staying Together, Western Dreamer, and Won The West. These legends of racing are available for viewing daily and often particpate not only in the Hall of Champions Presentation but also the Breed Barn Show.
For more information on BreyerFest, which is huge event, www.breyerhorses.com For more information on the other events at the park visit www.KYHorsePark.com.
Pleasure Standardbreds will have their moment to shine throught the summer. Look for STBs to participate in the following events: Spring Fling Carriage Drive: BreyerFest: The National Drive: North American Police Equestrian Competition:
May 28-30th July 17-19th October 6-11th October 13-16
Additionally there will be a Standardbred Showcase weekend as part of the Breed Barn presentation.
Robin Lawson and Aussie during a Standardbred Showcase weekend.
My Racing Under Saddle Experience
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never intended to become a RUS rider. I started out by riding Standardbreds to help them get a change of scenery and change their attitude on the race track. So many people asked me why I did not become a RUS rider, I just said I didn’t think it was for me. Over time the idea of the sport grew on me until I could not wait to get my chance behind the gate. My first ride was Allstar Blues trained by Tom Fanning. For months after that I had more people asking me to ride horses to help them. One of those people was a good friend of mine Julie Miller, she asked me to ride a trotting mare called Some Like It Hot who loved being ridden. Not long after that I broke a gelding, Bambino Hall, to ride. He then became my mount for the Hambeltonian series. Things happened very quickly. My first training mile ever was behind the gate with Bambino Hall getting evaluated for my RUS license. I was terrified and beyond excited all in the same moment, it literally was the calm before the storm. When the mile was over I was hooked, I could not believe what I had just done.
My second training mile was with Helene Gregory and Master Pine. Another new experience behind the gate with a horse and that was an even better experience. I was on my way to receiving my license. Not long after receiving my license I was going to my first race at the Meadowlands riding in the Hambeltonian Monte Trot series. I was so ecstatic after I successfully completed my first race. I could not and can not wait for more. I am addicted to RUS. When ever I think about racing these amazing athletes my heart races almost out of my chest. Standardbreds have changed my life. From showing Standardbreds to racing them they have consumed my heart and soul. I will be a Standardbred lover for the rest of my life. ***************************************** Stephanie Jacobs not only rides RUS but also shows her STB mounts in western and english classes. Photo by Vicki Wright
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Behind the Scenes Pass Meadows Standardbred Owners Association
ike many horse enthusiasts, the members of the Three Rivers Carriage Club were intersted in learning more about harness racing and Standardbreds. Heather Wilder and the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association (MSOA) stepped up to transform that interest into reality.
What better way to pick a winner! One of those $2 betting vouchers transformed itself into a $22 winning ticket! And of course, we had to watch the races from the apron, standing near the finish line to get the whole experience.
Our Friday night visit included a variety of special treats like: • Seats in the Triple Crown Banquet room, complete with big screen TV broadcasting the races • A light meal • Cash bar • VIP tour of the Racetrack side • Jog cart rides • Free programs • $2 betting voucher It is safe to say that these treats combined to make it a very special night. While there is typical casino fare (ice cream, pizza, fish and chips) found throughout the racino, the light buffet provided by MSOA included baked chicken, sides and salad. After munching, we decided to get serious about our visit. No one in the group was an experienced bettor so we placed our bets based on which driver we recognized as well as our favorite horse names.
Hillbilly Hanover, complete with his trademark hat, was one of the racehorses that provided jog cart rides during the VIP experience.
Royalty Has Arrived wasn’t sure about having his picture taken with members of the Three Rivers Carriage Club but was happy to accept petting. His groom chatted with the group about ‘Royalty’s’ care and answer question about his racing harness.
Soon it was time for the VIP tour of the racetrack side of things. The group was escorted around the paddock area, watching as horses were prepped for racing as well as unharnessed after their race. One by one we put on the helmet and goggles, preparing for our own trip around the track. The jog cart rides are fun! Obviously they’re not a full race speed but the horses do jog briskly, letting you experience the wind blowing in your face. The drivers, who are professionals, willingly chat with you while expertly guiding the horse around the track. They’re experienced at answering questions about the difference between a trot and pace, clocking a horse, and even inquiries about horse shoes. Before heading back to the racino side of things we were lucky enough to watch driver Mike Wilder get ready for his upcoming race, complete with a 360 degree camera attached to his helmet. You can watch the video on MSOA’s Facebook page. The club had a fantastic time and would recommend it to any fan. Now, you might think that this special event was over at the night’s end but this was the event that kept on giving...
No visit to the track would be complete without meeting the outrider and their horse. Missy Rothfus welcomed the group; her mount, Salem, a Standardbred/QH cross, was clearly experienced in meeting fans. They were called into action while we watched from the backstretch, catching a horse that had gotten away from his driver.
From left to right: Mike Wilder, Breanna Lingoski, Aaron Merriman, Alivial Watkins, Brian Zendt, Mike McCarrel, Paul Czopek and Dan Rawlings. Photo by Chris Gooden Photos
Several Three Rivers Carriage Club members entered their names in a drawing to participate in a match race. Imagine our surprise when Alivia Watkin’s name was drawn. She would be in the cart while Standardbred, Bettor Watch Him, was driven by Aaron Merriman in a race against three other horses. The date for the race was set - the first Saturday in May, as part of the Meadows Kentucky Derby celebration activities.
That sentiment was echoed by her fellow match race participants in their post race interviews.
After being whisked to the paddock area, Alivia and her fellow contestants were introduced to their horses and drivers. They were also fitted with helmets and goggles. Once the race stated the purpose of the goggles immediately became clear.
Win - Breanna Lincoski & Mike Wilder Place - Mike McCarrel & Brian Zendt Show - Alivia Watkins & Aaron Merriman
“My driver [Aaron Merriman] kept talking to me, I didn’t want to be rude but dirt kept flying in my mouth. At least I hope it was dirt.” Alivia reported back to fellow club members who turned out to watch her big day. It was the first time she had traveled so fast by cart, and while her driver was relaxed and professional, Alivia couldn’t help but notice how close the wheels of the carts came to each other. “It was an exciting experience,” Alivia noted, just before asking when she could do it again.
Paul Czopek Sr., who rode with Dan Rawlings, perhaps said it best, proclaiming, “As a lifelong racing fan, it was the ultimate experience.” While everyone went home feeling like a winner, the race results were:
Many thanks to MSOA, the drivers, trainers and horse owners for making opportunities like the VIP Behind the Scenes tour and Match Race possible.
If you are in the Washington, Pennsylvannia area and would like to compete in the match race on Saturday, May 16th with your favorite driver please send an email with your name, age, and contact information to msoa@themsoa.com.