Appointments The Hoofbeats of the Carolina Foothills
Volume 5 Issue 9
F R E E June 2011
RVPC training future of horse world by Barbara Childs
RVPC member Emily Dingwell and her horse, Hurricane Opal, compete at a regional Show Jumping Rally in Aiken, S.C. (photo submitted)
Spotlight on local equestrians: Jennifer McInnis and newcomer, Holly Hansen
Hatsie Goodrich created the original River Valley Pony Club in 1989 as a means of getting her son interested in riding. Goodrich had grown up in the original pony club in this area of Western North Carolina started by Jane Bingham, an earlier Tryon legend in the horse world. Goddrich’s mother, Rose Tillinghast, was also very involved in the early beginnings of the RVPC days. “My pony club days were the happiest of my youth, so that is why I undertook the calling to start another pony club for local youth. Initially we called ourselves TLC (Tryon, Landrum and Columbus) Pony Club, but one of my pony clubbers thought that was too cutsie, and it was changed to River Valley Pony Club. Mike Schatzberg graciously made his Cherokee Hill Farm available to us for regular meetings,” Goodrich said. “We had about eight regulars, all on totally backyard horses. This was a great challenge to our organizers, but I was determined that our pony club should fulfill the original pony club mission of providing horse activity to any interested child, regardless of financial background,” said Goodrich. By today’s standards the origi-
'Developing a willing patnership,' by Paula Mierop
nal pony club was mostly informal. Many fun activities were planned (camping trips, marching on ponies in the Columbus Christmas parade) but no formal competitions were scheduled. “We just geared up for any competition that came along. Most of the kids were D’s with an occasional C,” said Goodrich. Goodrich recently became involved with pony club once again and looks forward to working with youth and horses again. The pony club's mission is to provide a program for youth that teaches riding, mounted sports and the care of horses and ponies, thereby developing responsibility, moral judgment, leadership and self-confidence. During the unmounted meetings, pony clubbers learn about feeding, shoeing, vet care and areas of horse management. RVPC is dependent upon parent participation and volunteers. The club provides instruction throughout the year for individuals 7-25 years of age. Each rider provides his/ her own mount for lessons. Programs are offered in dressage, eventing, show jumping, (Continued on p. 3)
Robin Groves Sara Ketcham aims -training never sights on making ends by Barbara Junior Team of Madill Young Riders
A monthly publication of The Tryon Daily Bulletin
June-July 2011 5/28-29: Carriage Club Show at FENCE. Info: Sandy Donovan, 901218-0613 or sandydonovan@gmail.com. 5/29:River Valley Pony Club and the Western North Carolina Hunter Pace series announce their Memorial Day weekend Hunter Pace from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Info: visit www.rivervalleypc.org or call Dana Kind at 828-863-1359 or Kristen Billiu at 714-235-8326.
Laura Weicker, 828-859-6109 or visit www.trhcevents.com. 6/7-10: Robert Zanvoort clinic June 7-10. Info: Dr. Joy Baker at 828817-0315. 6/8-12: Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Charity Horse Show, A-rated, at FENCE. Info: Laura Weicker, 828859-6109 or www.trhcevents.com.
6/2: The Foothills Riding Club continues its support for TROT by offering a demonstration of natural horsemanship techniques by Lynn Brown. The event will be held at Red Gate Farms in Green Creek June 2 at 7 p.m. A minimum donation will benefit TROT. Info: 828-863-4924.
6/8-12: Harmony Training in Campobello will host a Horse/Pony Camp for all ages from the second week in June to the last week in June. It will run from 8 a.m. - noon Monday through Friday. Horses and ponies are provided. Call Erin Gambrell to sign up at 864-804-1949.
6/2: Lt. Michael Capps with the Polk County Sheriff's Office will host an informational meeting Thursday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at the Womack Building in Columbus. The meeting will provide information for those interested in learning more about a potential mounted patrol organizing in the county.
6/9: FETA new member welcome picnic June 9 at FENCE at 6:30 p.m. This will be a potluck dinner. Info:
6/2-5: Tryon Summer Classic at FENCE. Info: JP Godard, 803-6435698 or www.equusevents.com. 6/2-5: Tryon Riding and Hunt Club $5,000 Charity Jumper. Info:
6/9-10: Blue Moon Farms will host a Paul Belasic Clinic. Info: Sophie@montana.net 6/11: Bed & Barn Farm will host a Trail Confidence Clinic June 11. Info: Lynn Brown at 828-447-6696 or by email at ROCequestriandivision@ gmail.com. 6/17-19: A luncheon series on Sustainable Horsekeeping in the Carolinas will take place June 17
Make your “Appointments!”
Appointments Samantha Hurst, editor 828-859-2737 x 110 Nick Holmberg, marketing consultant 828-859-2737 x 114
To reach us regarding: • News items, contact Samantha Hurst, (828) 859-2737 ext. 110, e-mail samantha. hurst@tryondailybulletin.com; or Barbara Childs, barbarachilds01@gmail. com; FAX to (828) 859-5575. • Advertising, billing or distribution inquiries, please call Nick Holmberg at the Tryon Daily Bulletin, (828) 859-
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 2
at Chateau du Cheval in Landrum. Speaker Clay Nelson will focus on best practices and financial incentives for going green. The event will benefit Blue Ridge Equestrian School. RSVP by June 10. Info: 828-894-5545 or 828-817-0732. 6/17-19: FENCE Schooling Horse Trials at FENCE. Info: FENCE, 828859-9021 or email horseshow@ FENCE.org. 6/17-19: Harmon Classics Summer Challenge. Info: Lewis Pack, 828-894-2721 or visit www. brhja.com. 6/18-19: Jackie Harris and Serendipity Farm will host an NCDCTA JJ Tate Dressage Clinic June 18-19. Info: 828-863-2242. 6/25-26: The Green Creek Hounds plan an open house for Sunday, June 12. The event will take place from 2 - 5 p.m. at 1764 Sandy Plains Road. There will be a parade of hounds and refreshments will be served. Info: 828-863-22753 or 864-895-1196. 6/25-26: NCDCTA Dressage Show at FENCE. Info: Sandy Donovan, 901218-0613 or email sandydonovan@ gmail.com. 7/6-10: Tryon Riding & Hunt (Continued on page 30)
9151. Appointments is distributed on the fourth Thursday of every month (subject to change) in every homedelivered and newsstand copy of The Tryon Daily Bulletin. You can also find them for free each month, as long as they last, in tourism and equestrian businesses throughout the area. Appointments is a monthly publication of The Tryon Daily Bulletin Inc., 16 N. Trade Street, Tryon, N.C. 28782.
• RVPC
(continued from page 1)
mounted games, tethrathlon, quiz, vaulting, foxhunting and polo cross. Cambree Clinton is the youngest member of the RVPC. She is 6 years old, soon to be 7. “I have always loved horses, and when I was 3 years old I had a pony party. We rented a pony to give rides around the backyard,” Clinton said. “After that I knew I wanted my own pony. At age 5 I moved to Landrum and started taking lessons from my favorite teacher, Vovki DePalma. I ride a Fjord pony named Katrina and also an Arab-Welsh, Cupcake. I have learned so much, and I get better and better with every practice. "The thing I love most about pony club and riding is meeting new friends that love horses and ponies, just like me. I hope to learn enough from my riding lessons and pony club to someday have my own pony,” said Clinton. One of the oldest pony club members is Emily Dingwell, a senior at Landrum High School. Dingwell focuses her attention on show jumping. “I love this equine sport because it takes so much power and precision from both horse and rider to be successful,” she said. “That and nothing can beat the thrill of galloping and tight turns in a good jump off round.” Dingwell joined Pony Club in the fall of 2008. She said since then she has grown both as a horse person and a leader. “Pony Club has taught me how to manage time, myself, my horse and other younger pony club members, all while teaching me how to be focused and detailed in my riding and horse management skills,” said Dingwell. Dingwell currently rides two horses, including Opal, a Percheron/QH cross. “She loves jumping and turning and is full of personality. I’m
hoping to qualify for the USPC Championships this year in Show Jumping Regular Division, and we’ll be jumping 3’6”-3’9”. Matt is my other horse, and he is a bit of a goof. He is an off-thetrack TB, and he is blind in his left eye. However, that does not stop him a bit! He thinks cross country is a blast, so we are both learning to do eventing,” said Dingwell. Dakota DePalma is also a senior at Landrum. She is a RVPC member and began riding when she was 10. DePalma became serious about riding at the age of 12, and that’s when she moved to Landrum. “I do a lot of dressage because I love the eventing phase of riding. Jumping has always scared me more, so I love the dressage because having control and the extreme flexibility to address my riding and movements is important to me,” DePalma said. “Pony Club has made riding an amazing experience that I would not have received otherwise. Pony Club has given me more confidence in my knowledge and reassures me of knowing the correct thing to do.”
Top: RVPC member Dakota DePalma on Holleigh (a Connomera cross) at a schooling hosted by Beth Perkins at Long Shadow Farm. Above: RVPC member Samantha Firby rides Dixie. Firby’s mother said they are so proud of Samantha because after two years she is now jumping over rails and flower boxes with ease. (photos submitted)
This soon-to-be college freshman is soaking up her remaining time with the pony club. “I am going to college in the fall and will be on the riding team, so I’m trying to get as much experience as I can and enjoying it. I have three horses that I ride most of the time. One is a Connemara cross that is 14.3 hands - I event and ride this pony for a friend. Eventing Rally will
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 3
be our final show together. I am starting my mom’s new 16.2hand Trakehner and hope to event this horse. He’s never jumped before, and I’m hoping to show him later this year. I also have a 16.3-hand Irish draft cross mare that Richard Lamb trained. I’m hoping to move her up to training level eventing,” said DePalma. DePalma is a C-2 level in Pony Club.
Robin Groves and Thor's Toy Truck tackling the water hazard at the 2008 World Singles Championships. (Photo by PicsofYou courtesy of the American Driving Society)
Robin Groves, training never ends by Barbara Madill
On April 9, Robin Groves, best known as a carriage driving competitor (International 2008 FEI Singles Team), but with experience in just about every ridden discipline, including eventing, endurance, dressage and western, started adding fans from sports using saddles with horns. In February, several members of the Carolina Carriage Club remarked that Groves had not visited Tryon since December 2004. A phone call revealed that Groves and her husband Wilson, who operate R & W Horsedrawn Services in Brownsville, Vt., were coming south the follow-
ing week to compete in several combined driving events and to escape winter and “mud” season. The date was penciled in. Next: Where to have the clinic? FENCE, frequent site for CCC activities, was already taken by the Foothills Riding Club. CCC member Sue McDaniel donned her Sherlock Holmes’ gear and found Quarter Horse breeder Sherwin Lindsey’s Latigo Farm in Campobello. The generous size (33 X 66 meters), firm ground surface, a roof and open sides of the arena, especially welcome in view of the unseasonable heat that weekend, added to the appeal, as did Big Daddy Hawg’s Barbecue being
there to serve meals. Equines from the tiny VSE minis, through Welsh, Morgan, Irish, Part Arab, “unknown” breeds and crossbreds arrived with their drivers and riders and the weekend began. Quickly assessing the needs of each of her pupils, Groves helped each driver or rider identify the problem and determine how to resolve it, no matter how elementary or difficult. Groves did not keep repeating instructions. If there was no change, after a few moments, she’d ask the human involved if the horse was doing what was expected. If not, “Fix it!” The delight when the fix was achieved was universal
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 4
and the audience learned how to recognize when success was imminent. Occasionally, Groves took the reins and drivers and auditors could see what the animal could do if their owners had a few more years of practice. In one case, a simple equipment change made a big difference. Groves had originally trained Nancy Mahler’s Morgan gelding named Fort Riley. Not happy with what she saw, Groves changed the bit and declared, “Now that is the horse I recommended to Nancy.” (Riley’s former owner had changed from the bit that Groves had (Continued on page 5)
“She doesn't solve their problems, she teaches them how to solve them.”
-- Sherwin Lindsey
• Groves
(continued from page 4)
been using). Remember that Quarter Horse/Western connection? Lindsey, whose trophy room has several world championships from traditional western sports, mentioned that driving might be a next possible interest. After watching Groves work several drivers, Lindsey declared, “She’s a real teacher of the old school. She doesn’t solve their problems, she teaches them how to solve them.” Who knows, perhaps there will be a Lindsey Quarter Horse in the next Robin Groves’ clinic. The basis of all of Grove’s
training is dressage translated to “athletic balance, training and obedience.” According to Groves, the walk is paramount and the base that should never be overlooked no matter what the level of competition. Problems result, including lameness, when the basics are not continually re-visited. “First and above all, safety! After that, keep refreshing by going back to the basics. Be objective about whether you did your preparation,” Groves said. “Training never ends.”
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See page 31 for photos from this clinic.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 5
JJ Tate competing with horse Bawdy. (photo courtesy of www. jessicajotate.com)
Serendipity Farms to welcome JJ Tate for clinic June 18-19 by Barbara Childs
Jackie Harris volunteered to hold the JJ Tate clinic at her farm for the NCDCTA Adult Amateur Committee because she feels strongly that it is important to give back to organizations that
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 6
offer venues and opportunities for the sport. JJ Tate has trained 11 horses to the FEI levels of dressage very successfully and four have been (Continued on page 7)
• Tate
Thann R. Boyum, D.V.M.
(continued from page 6)
competitive Grand Prix horses. Harris said she admires Tate and is looking forward to riding and learning from her wealth of experience and training. Ashley Perkins, former assistant to Jen Baumert of Cross Creek Farm, has been awarded a position with Tate, so there is a big connection here for Harris. Jen Baumert is Harris’ coach and trainer in dressage. Harris has made her facility, Serendipity Farm, available to the NCDCTA for riders. She is organizing the clinic and providing food and guest accommodations for Tate during the event. This is a big educational opportunity for local dressage and eventing adult amateurs. The North Carolina Dressage and Combined Training Association members are subsidized to train with a very popular national and international clinician. This is also an opportunity for local professionals to take advantage of Tate’s knowledge by auditing the clinic to observe how she handles situations that we as riders, are all faced with on a r,egular basis. In case readers do not know, the NCDCTA is North Carolina’s group member organization; a dressage rider or event and combined training rider must be a member to show at recognized shows and events. Membership is also required to qualify for regional and national points and standings. Tate has studied with big
Th
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JJ Tate (photo courtesy of www. jessicajotate.com)
names in the sport. She’s studied under Charles de Kunffy and Gyula Dallos of Budapest, Hungary, for example, and for the last three years has trained with Scott Hassler. During the summer, Tate is based at his facility in Chesapeake City, Md. Tate’s goals as an international rider are to make the Olympic Team in dressage - a team for the WEG Olympics. Today Tate owns two 8-year-old horses - Fabrege and Rosall. Fabrege is schooling the whole Grand Prix movements and is a child prodigy. He is ranked No. 1 at the developing horse list and is doing the Prix St. Georges test. Tate believes he will be a future star. Rosall meanwhile is an Oldenburg stallion. He is taking time to develop and master his skills and he is worth the wait, Tate said. Tate has 15 horses in training today with a little bit of everything from Grand Prix to training level.
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Appointments • June 2011 • p. 7
APPOINTMENTS ADS 12
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 8
Erin Gambrell jumping with Day at the Beach, a.k.a. Willie, in 1988. (photo submitted)
Young girl’s dream evolves through life by Barbara Childs
When Erin Gambrell was growing up in Huntington Beach, Calif., there were horse barns on every corner. Most were small boarding facilities and training operations with a lot of character. Trails surrounded all the barns. “My friends and I would love to ride the ponies for people who needed them to be ridden. We enjoyed riding bareback and getting bucked off these ponies,” Gambrell said. “We would just get right back on and most times get bucked off again. It was great fun to us. I believe we learned a lot about perseverance and determination from those wonderful ponies.” Gambrell said riding in Cali-
fornia was very different in that who tried to deter us from every boarding and training facilities horse activity. They enrolled did not have pastures and turn- us in ballet, tap dancing, baton out. If you wanted your horse and Brownies. Yet, to no avail,” exercised, you rode every day, she said. “Their last resort was she said. sending us to a summer camp at “We rode every Rawhide Ranch. day in the a.m. They heard that while we were in the campers had to Spotlight school. Then after clean stalls, clean on Local school we would tack, ride and do take a lesson on Equestrians all the work reour horses,” she quired to run a said. ranch. Perfect! We Being born in La Jolla, Calif., loved it all. Finally, our parents had its advantages – sunshine, decided to put us in some serian amazing family and a high ous riding lessons. The rest is tolerance for a horse crazy girl. history.” Gambrell started riding at age 4. At age 16, Gambrell gave up “Like all crazy horse girls her amateur status to give riding growing up, my best friend lessons at the Huntington Beach Danielle Orr and I had parents Equestrian Center. After teachAppointments • June 2011 • p. 9
ing for a couple of years, she and her mom took over management of the riding school. Gambrell hired five other instructors and had upwards of 20 school horses at one time. “It may sound staggering but we gave 140-150 lessons per week. My mom was on the books and she has the records to prove it. It was high volume and high stress, and that made it enough for me to want to make the move out to the midwest and buy a farm,” Gambrell said. “Two of my favorite horses were shipped out to join me - Harmony, a 17-hand Canadian TB mare, and Willie, a.k.a. Day at the Beach. (Continued on page 10)
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Gambrell competes in a dressage competition with Sampson/Irish draft March 27. (photo submitted, taken by fotohorse)
• Dream
(continued from page 9)
“It was there in the quad cities that I got to take my first dressage lesson with Betsy Steiner. I was also introduced to equine chiropractic. Harmony’s health declined at this time so I called Dr. Sharon Willoughby, DVM, DC. Dr. Sharron adjusted his spine and he started sweating. She hadn’t pulled out of the driveway and he reared, bucked and rolled in his paddock. "Needless to say, I knew how much the chiropractic helped him. I knew this was something for everyone with a spine.” Two years later Gambrell took a trip to South Carolina to tour the campus of Sherman College of Chiropractic. This led her once again to move with her son, Mascal. She graduated from Sherman College in 2003, married her husband, Keith, and gained a daughter, Jessica. Being around horses gave Jessica, her daughter, an incredible work ethic. Son, Mascal, loved the thrill of foxhunting. Appointments • June 2011 • p. 10
The passion to teach, train and enjoy horses led Gambrell to start the Harmony Horse Training Center, LLC. “I believe that we were meant to live in harmony with everything. It’s not always easy, but who said life was easy? It’s about how you handle life after those mistakes we sometimes make, that really shapes who and what we are today,” she said. “Horses teach us about love, patience, forgiveness, kindness, respect, self-control, just to name a few virtues. Harmony Training has grown to put these gifts into use. It is a small operation that focuses on people and their equines being safe and effective partners. “Harmony Training prepares riders for jumping, eventing, dressage, hunter pace events, trail riding and low-level dressage. I believe safety and confidence is key to enjoying our equines. Our youngest student is 6 and our oldest is 60. We have fun and know that each day is a (Continued on page 11)
“Horses teach us about love, patience,
forgiveness, kindness, respect, self-control, just to name a few virtues.”
-- Erin Gambrell
• Dream
(continued from page 10)
gift from God.” Gambrell continues to love riding herself. Saddle fitter Dean Brown offered Gambrell an Irish Draft horse named Sampson not too long ago. The two competed in the Horsemasters Pony Club Dressage Rally on March 25-27. “Talk about getting to be big kids again,” she said. “The Foothills Foxes is part of the Greenville Pony Club.We were a team of six and most of us competed in Training Test 1 and 3 and did a musical freestyle. There is never a limit of awe-
some horse activities." A few months ago, Gambrell was also asked to be the official tour guide for Derbyshire Farms. “Of course I said yes. I bring horses that are safe and reliable to future landowners to ride on the trails that surround Derbyshire. It is a great way to share the wealth of equine activities which make our area even more valuable,” she said. Gambrell likes to take Sampson for jumping lessons with Beth Perkins, jumping with Jeanne Smith and, when she gets a chance, she schools dressage with Carolyn West. “I plan to bring back to my students whatever I learn,” she said.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 11
Zygmots considered super neighbors to FENCE by Samantha Hurst
Jim and Dana Zygmot owned property off Hunting Country Road for several years before finally selling the service station they had owned for 35 years in upstate New York and moving southward. Now, they live right next door to FENCE and volunteer their time in between fixing trailers for other horseowners. “We live right next door to FENCE. They’re our neighbors, they seem like a worthwhile organization and I think it’s important to give back to a community – you can’t just take,” Jim Zygmot said. FENCE meanwhile thinks the Zygmots are pretty great as well. In fact, in December 2010 the organization named the couple its 2010 Volunteer(s) of the Year. John Boyle said Dana and Jim Zygmot work tirelessly for the therapeutic riding program, TROT,
“Both Dana and Jim are the kind of people if you need something, they want to give it to you 10 times over.” -- John Boyle
and FENCE. “Both Dana and Jim are the kind of people if you need something they want to give it to you 10 times over,” Boyle said. “When something is needed at FENCE, 'How can I help' is the first thing out of their mouths.” Gretchen Verbonic agreed that the pair serves without hesitation. “Because they just show up when they are needed like magic, like they have ESP or something,” Verbonic said. One time Verbonic said the Zygmots were called to come look at one of FENCE’s trailers that was broken and needed repair. Vernonic said they asked the Zygmots to
come in a day or so because the trailer needed to be unloaded. Instead, the couple was there in five minutes to help unload the trailer and fix it. “They are wonderful people and just good neighbors, super neighbors,” Verbonic said. Dana has been a TROT volunteer since August 2009 and last year donated 42.75 volunteer hours. Every Thursday afternoon she helps the rider to groom and tack up the horse and then walks alongside while they ride. This does not include time spent volunteering for FENCE. Dana has worked with special populations her entire career, she
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Appointments • June 2011 • p. 12
said. In New York, Zygmot was involved with a program called Pegassus and she's also had a therapy dog that she took to senior centers. "There are things that animals can do that we as humans just can't," Dana said. "The bond between horses and humans is pretty strong. The whole idea of having the freedom of mobility is one aspect but even grooming serves as a therapuetic task in itself. TROT Volunteer Coordinator Carol Ten Broek said volunteers like the Zygmots are essential to the program. “Almost every one of our 20 riders requires a horse leader and two sidewalkers to ensure their safety and freedom to ride a horse,” Ten Broek said. “TROT runs entirely on volunteer power. All of our (Continued on page 13)
• Zygmots
(continued from page 12)
sidewalkers, leaders, horseowners and two of our instructors, are volunteers. Without volunteers, there would be no TROT.” TROT provides a way for people with disabilities to enjoy a tradition and a key activity of our community, which is interaction with horses, Ten Broek said. The program allows the individuals to do this while providing outdoor recreational and educational opportunities in learning horsemanship concepts. “It can also serve a fairly wide spectrum of disabilities, from physical to developmental to cognitive, through contact with animals who not only provide non-judgmental companionship but serve as a natural means of physical exercise without the need for indoor machines,” Ten Broek said. TROT is the only therapeutic riding program in the area, she added.
TROT and FENCE volunteer Dana Zygmot serves as a sidewalker for Jeremy Robinson, while Diane Prewitt leads horse, Noodle (owned by Virginia Maclure) and Betsy Hastings on the right. (photo submitted)
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 13
Developing a willing partnership through Peter Campbell by Paula Mierop, with excepts from www.petercampbellhorsemanship.com
Peter Campbell is an artist, a student of the horse, one of the very few horse trainers today who actually has made his living on horseback. Some call it ‘natural horsemanship,’ Campbell calls it simply understanding why and how the horse operates. Campbell shares his lifetime of learning and experience with equines in clinics across America and Canada. In the early 80s he found himself at a clinic with renowned horseman Ray Hunt. Campbell finally found someone who could help him understand the horse from the inside out. With a deep drive to truly understand the horse from the first nose hair to the last tail hair, Campbell met Hunt’s mentor Tom Dorrance. Over the years Tom not only was a mentor to Campbell but became a good friend. He is now one of the foremost trainers of the art of working with the horse’s mind. Campbell is able to teach people the most effective ways to help their horse become a “willing partner” through simple, practical and essential values that create respect and a strong bond between horse and rider. Whether they ride Western, English, or any style in between, everyone has found that Campbell’s philosophy is a great enhancement to their riding experience and their relationship with their horses. I was lucky enough to attend one of his clinics while he was in Rutherfordton, N.C. last month. I have watched many of his “Tip for the Day” videos on his website, www.petercampbellhorsemanship.com, and was excited when I found out that he was going to be so close. Recently, I have become a serious “student of the horse.” I realized that I had become a pas-
Peter Campbell works with a horse owner during a recent clinic. (Photo by Paula Mierop.)
senger and not a partner when riding and wanted to change my ways. Local horseman, Paul Hellebrand, has become my mentor in this journey. Hellebrand, who uses a lot of Dorrance and Hunt teachings, has said there are two clinicians he admired the most and they are Buck Brannaman and Campbell. So with a “let’s see what else I can learn” attitude, I went to audit Friday morning’s clinic. At the clinic on Friday morning, the Horsemanship I class worked on groundwork for the first part of the morning. As Campbell says, “If you can’t control their feet from the ground, how can you control their feet from their back?” After the groundwork session, the group mounted their horses and worked on getting in rhythm with their horses at a nice walk
and stopping smoothly. I found out I could bring my horse and ride for a session as there had been a few cancellations. Wahoo! So on Sunday morning I loaded up my quarter horse gelding and drove to Rutherfordton. Almost as soon as I entered the arena with the other riders and with a few minutes of ground exercises, Campbell said to mount up. He began working the group of riders and horses on simple, but important, exercises. Over and over he would have us walk, stop and move our horses hindquarters toward the center, which placed the front facing the rail, then it was move your forequarters another quarter turn. Now we were facing the other way. Then this was repeated and eventually we were asked to do the same maneuvers
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 14
but to turn facing the center of the arena. Then we were doing half turns, walking, stopping and backing. At the end of the exercises he told the group to put it all together and side pass their horse each way. A very practical movement that is used to open gates, get the mail and even to step over to a mounting block! After lunch I stayed and audited the afternoon riders. They were a great group to watch as Campbell worked with each one of them individually. Observers could see big improvements in the rider-horse relationships. Campbell also had the group do a lot of trotting. The purpose of this exercise was to find a spot where your horse felt like they were just (Continued on p. 15)
• Campbell (continued from page 14)
about to canter and then to use that same spot the next time around the arena to ask for the canter. This way the transition to the canter would be easy and fluid. One of the bits of wisdom Campbell told the group was,“If you never let your horse go fast, the horse will not know the feel from the rider to slow down.” He also said to look at the word “think” that is on every pommel of every saddle! I am very glad I was able to be coached by this remarkable man with his quiet manners and good humor. Campbell told the group that the horse he was riding during the clinic was a mare that was just having her seventh ride under saddle. She was calm and sensible. What a great willing partnership he had with her.
Shortly after the clinic in Rutherfordton, Campbell left to go to his next clinic in Texas. On his way to that clinic he was interviewed on the "Western Radio Show" on the Horse Radio Network. It is episode 51 and well worth your time to give it a good listen. Based in Wheatland, Wyo., Campbell has conducted clinics throughout the United States and Canada since 1988 and has authored the “Willing Partners” video series that has been sold and seen worldwide. He has also appeared at international events like the Canadian Finals Rodeo and the Spruce Meadows Masters. He is frequently on “Horse TV” and the “Horseman’s Radio Weekly.” A book about Campbell, his life, his training philosophy and his methods is in the works and should be published soon.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 15
Adopting racehorse brings new life to horse and broken-hearted horse owner by Barbara Childs
and the wind blowing into J e n n i f e r M c I n n i s l o s t the phone was so loud they her 28-year-old Tennessee had to lower the volume so Walking Horse last August, they could be understood. and that was like the end of “You have to look at this a long love affair for her. website, New Vocations in About three months ago she Marysville, Ohio. There’s a o ff i c i a l l y b e g a n a s e a r c h horse there - Dos Hombres. for another horse because They are riding him in this s h e w a n t e d a n o n - g a i t e d wind, and it’s blowing snow one like the horses she rode really hard. He’s a beautiful growing up. mover. Go look at him and “Looking for a horse was call us back,” said Georgie not only an adventure for and Cindy. me, but provided to be quite McInnis ran home and emotional because I am a took a look at this horse, sensitive and overly tender filled out the application and h e a r t e d p e r s o n , ” M c I n n i s was curious to see how long said. “Each time it would take to I would see a be processed. horse and feel The application Spotlight a connection, I required sevon Local would feel let eral references, down if the sale Equestrians a vet, a farrier, would not work boarding stable, out, or the horse trainer names was more than I could af- and numbers. ford. A friend of mine at The next day, New VocaThree Gables Farm in Tryon tions' director, Sandy, was kept talking about how I finishing up a 25-minute c o u l d g e t a s u p e r h o r s e interview with Georgie Arthat really needed a forever rigio regarding her applicahome and would be afford- tion. able. After her references were “She was very adamant contacted, New Vocations about this, and even had a called to say she was elifriend who takes in retired gible to adopt this horse. racehorses and rehabilitates The next step was to secure them for a new job and a new a t r a n s p o r t c o m p a n y t h a t life. At first I had concerns m a k e s t r i p s t o t h e S o u t h because of the common neg- and was familiar with the ative impression that these Tryon area. horses were fire-breathing “I consider myself very maniacs. On April 11 this lucky to have friends who impression was proven to be want to be part of finding entirely wrong.” that perfect forever horse M c I n n i s w a s l e a v i n g a for me. Without this group l o c a l r e s t a u r a n t A p r i l 7 effort, I wouldn’t have been when Georgie Arrigio and a l e r t e d t o t h e N e w Vo c a her friend Cindy called her t i o n s w e b s i t e o r v i d e o o f with some exciting news. D o s H o m b r e s , ” M c I n n i s She said she could hear the said. “When my judgment happiness and excitement in has been clouded with emotheir voices. tions trying to choose a It was a very windy day, horse, my friends know me
Dos Hombres (photo submitted)
“I consider myself very lucky to have friends who want to be part of finding that perfect forever horse for me.” -- Jennifer McInnis
well enough to know that I am an advocate of reusing anything, so why not have this passion lead me to my next horse.” The background of Dos Hombres is not relevant because he’s here to start a new life, but his background does affect how he learns to go forward and how worldly
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 16
and safe he is about most of his surroundings, noises, machinery and quick movements in his spaces. Dos Hombres raced at Saratoga, Aqueduct and Belmont. Out of 20 starts he had five firsts, one second and three thirds. (Continued on p. 17)
Dos Hombres turned out to run freely around his new home with Jennifer McInnis. (photo submitted)
• Racehorse (continued from page 16)
He was bred at Brooklyn Boyz Stable. Statistically, for his age (6) and having 20 starts at high level tracks, he had quite a successful career in racing.
“I feel fortunate that his owner chose to let New Vocations place him in a new lifestyle,” said McInnis. The groundwork has successfully begun with Dos Hombres as he is being transitioned from the ring to the trails over the next few months.
“My experience with racehorse adoption came about rather quickly. I had in mind a price I could spend. I wound up with a relatively small adoption fee, yet I am investing the difference in retraining him as he learns a new set of skills,” McInnis said. “Fortunately for me, he
is a quick learner and loves his work. This is not an inexpensive way to just get a horse and hop on to ride - it takes time and patience and training for both of us. N e w Vo c a t i o n s h a s g i v e n me comfort and confidence and a great new horse in this adoption process.”
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www.rutherfordlargeanimal.com Appointments • June 2011 • p. 17
Natural skills lead farrier to future path by Barbara Childs
Farrier Corey Gasperson works on the shoe of a horse. Gasperson grew up around horses but found his way to this career path out of a desire to work with his hands. Now Gasperson also uses his horse knowledge to improve his leadership skills through the Young Farmers and Ranches Committee. (photo submitted)
Corey Gasperson never planned to be a farrier, but it seemed like a logical path to follow since he had handled a variety of horses from a young age. Gasperson was home schooled and his mother allowed him to explore many different fields of study, but she always noticed his ability for handling mechanics well and how he liked working with his hands. She also noted he was skillful handling the horses. When he was about 17 and completing his high school curriculum, he was in a quandary about what to do next. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do for a living. My mom suggested I attend farrier school,” he said. “She pointed out that the farrier trade would require many things for which I had a natural ability for, since you need to be a good mechanic, have a good eye, like working with your hands, and it helps to be a good horseman with a lot of patience and understanding to work in the farrier trade.” After searching for farrier schools around the country, Corey settled on attending the Kentucky Horseshoeing School. He attended the master farrier course, and then remained for
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 18
another three months assisting the instructors who taught the course to hone his skills before he came back to Green Creek to start his business. After school, Gasperson apprenticed with several farriers in the community for a year before he struck out totally on his own. “I am very grateful to the farrier community here for generously giving of their time and talents to help me continue to learn and grow in my profession,” he said. Gasperson shoes all types of horses participating in all the equine disciplines. “I like the variety the farrier work provided. I meet a lot of different people across the equine spectrum, and I enjoy learning about their discipline. Each horse is different on its conformation,” he said. Gasperson said each foot is different on a horse based on the conformation of the leg above it. He said he enjoys the challenge of figuring out the mechanics of each horse’s stride, how they load their weight when they put down their feet, and how best to shoe the horse accordingly. “It is very rewarding for me to keep a horse comfortable (Continued on p. 19)
• Gasperson
Gasperson recently went to Washington D.C. with the Young Farmers and Ranchers program by correcting the hoof balance to meet with North Carolina and applying the correct type representatives to discuss agriof shoe to provide support not cultural issues within our region only to the hoof, but to the leg and state. “Since moving to Polk Counstructure above it,” he said. “I do not think of the work I do as ty, I have met many interesting standard shoeing or corrective and helpful people that have shoeing. I recommend what the championed me. I value the horse needs at that particular deep sense of community here, and I have found this in both the time for balance and support.” Gasperson is also involved horse industry and the agriculin the Polk County agriculture tural community,” Gasperson through Gasperson Hay Produc- said. “Having a close-knit, multi-generational family is tion and Sales. Starting out producing hay paramount on the family farm. I feel fortunate that for the family my entire family farm, this busiis now living in ness has grown to Spotlight Polk County, and now include sales on Local that we all support and custom baling geared to the Equestrians each other and get along. equine market. “Having my mother teach Gasperson was even recently recognized for his farming me through the horses with initiative and was chosen to everything that is involved with represent Polk County on the nature to support their well Farm Bureau Young Farmers being physically, emotionally and scientifically, has helped and Ranches Committee. Committee members partici- me understand the cycle of life, pate in varied farming activities, and that has kept me close to yet Gasperson is the only mem- the land. As a society, we need to help ber with a total equine focus. The Young Farmers and our young people get back to the Ranches Committee program land, promote the respect and provides opportunities to de- knowledge of agriculture, and velop leadership skills, engage teach farming practices that are in public speaking and gain sustainable if we are to survive. exposure to current agricultural I view this as one of the most issues from the state and na- pressing problems that we are facing globally for the future.” tional leaders. (continued from page 17)
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 19
Twin Oaks Veterinary Clinic
" # # !
Busy Oaks season throughout Twin Veterinary
our lovely horse country by Barbara Childs
Sean Eastman, DVM Sarah Silver, DVM, CVA * Special interest in small animal dentistry and equine lameness * Practicing high quality small animal and equine medicine
Editor's note: Writer Barbara Childs tells of local events throughout our horse country through the eyes, and very long ears, of Dudley the miniature donkey. Well, here I am in the buff; brawny, bold and oh so handsome. My new do for the spring and summer months has made my gorgeous gray coat shiny, soft and inviting for the ladies to touch. It’s also more comfortable for reporting and working on assignments. Here are some newsworthy happenings. Paula Mierop of Re-Rides Tack Shop has a new horse, Mokey. She took him to the Peter Campbell clinic and worked on natural horsemanship and dressage exercises. Mierop also has Bubble, a 2-year-old mule, who is learning some competitive trail riding techniques, but mostly she’s grazing and frolicking in the pastures, enjoying her youth. Jackie Harris is hosting the JJ Tate Clinic at her Serendipity Farm in June, which will be a big event for this area. Harris is donating her facility for this event and with the NCDCTA sponsorship. JJ Tate rides internationally and hopes to make the United States Olympic Dressage Team. Ashley Parsons is working with Maryanna Haymon’s (Marydell Farm) 3-year-old colt, Doc. Doc will then go to Hilltop Farm in Maryland for more training undersaddle. Haymon has just undergone surgery on her right elbow and needs your wishes of healing through this very painful time. Doug Hannun, who does body work and massage for the Olympic Team horses was at Still Creek Farm helping to prep a horse for Rolex. There was talk of his coming back for a workshop/clinic in
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 20
APPOINTMENTS ADS 123010 - page 3
the future. Cathy Taylor of Campobello was out riding her beautiful young Friesan horse. He went on his first trail ride accompanied by her two Icelandic ponies and did very well. On a sad note, Whitney Penny’s horse, Vaselli, went to his eternal rest and peace. He was a great horse and will be truly missed. We extend our sympathy for her loss. Pepper Oliver will take her minis to the Asheville show in July. Oliver took her young, 3-year-old Hanoverian, Teddy, to Still Creek Farm and he went like a pro. She was very impressed with his first outing. Erin Gambrell of Harmony Farm in Campobello will have a pony/horse camp in June. Horses and ponies will be provided. Call Gambrell for more info, call 864804-1949. The summer season of shows at Harmon Field has started. The band played well into the night as I munched my hay under the stars and listened to the rock and roll and blue grass music. Oh, yeah! The TB Racing Jockeys calendar will be out in 2012 with steamy poses for each month. I’m seriously thinking about having my own calendar with a Dudley theme for each month. What do you think? Georgie Arrigio’s new mare, Cordura, is an Andalusian beauty, dark bay with velvet brown eyes and aims to please. She is learning to do the Spanish Walk and is only 3 years old. I’m boogying down the road to my favorite tree as “It Feels So Good� plays over the radio. This helps set the mood for my next assignment and fuels new ideas for my manuscript which I hope will be a best seller. It’s a definitive history on the modern ass. I also (Continued on p. 21)
Bramblewood Stables Dressage Hunters/Jumpers
Br
(864) 322-7979
Dudley the miniature donkey belongs to Joy Baker. (Photo by Erik Olsen)
• Dudley
(continued from page 20)
plan to send a copy to my favorite recording artist, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith. I know he will appreciate my consideration and understand my literary talents. I will also send him my video so he can check out my moves. As you may have noted I do at times chomp the leaves off of
young plants to encourage their regrowth and stimulate their root systems. I eyed an unplanted tomato plant and couldn’t resist. My mother was horrified, again, but she understands and forgives my rare gardening skills. As your tomato plants begin to yield their red juicy beauties of summer ripeness, try this recipe from my treasures of culinary human tastes.
Dudley’s Tomato Pie: Ingredients: 4 large ripe tomatoes 3/4 cup of real mayonnaise 1 cup of cheddar
cheese or mozzarella 1 large sweet onion chopped fresh basil (8 or 9 leaves) salt and pepper
Directions: Mix the cheese and mayo. Layer the tomatoes with the onions and basil. Spread the mayo and cheese mixture on each layer. Salt and pepper. Place remaining cheese on top layer with some fresh basil leaves. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Appointments • June 2011 • p. 21
APPOINTMENTS ADS 12
Looking out for laminitis in our hooved friends by Karine Nunes, equine vet at Tryon Equine Hospital
Spring is finally here! After a long winter, we all welcome the return of spring. It’s an exciting time for all horse owners and riders - the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming and the pastures are finally becoming greener. Lush green pastures, however, bring up the concern of laminitis. Springtime is the time of the year when your horses are more at risk for developing this condition, which involves inflammation of the lamina within the hooves and can be quite serious. Laminitis, also known as “founder,” can be brought on by many different factors. Certain breeds can be predisposed to the condition. Metabolic disorders such as Cushing’s disease, insu-
lin resistance or “metabolic syndrome” may make a horse more prone to developing laminitis. Nutrients in the rich grass, as well as feeds, can also affect the health of your horse’s feet. It is not always clear why certain horses are affected while others are not; however, this condition should always be taken seriously and should be treated aggressively once diagnosed. Diagnosis of the condition may involve an examination by your veterinarian to evaluate the hooves for changes or sensitivity, radiographs to evaluate the appearance and health of the internal structures of the hooves as well as additional procedures such as nerve blocks if deemed necessary. Treatment of laminitis may involve stall rest, anti-inflammatory therapy and corrective
Laminitis concerns Potential causes: Some metabolic disorders such as Cushing's disease, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can make horses more prone. Also nutrients in grass and feed can lead to issues especially in the springtime when horses are more at risk. shoeing, as well as other treatments if deemed appropriate by the veterinarian. If your horse has had episodes of laminitis in the past or has been diagnosed with metabolic disorders, springtime may require turnout restrictions, dietary restrictions or the addition of grazing muzzles to your
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 22
Diagnosis could require: Evaluation of hoof sensitivy, radiographs to evaluate internal structure of hoof and possibly nerve blocks. Methods of treatment: Turnout restrictions, dietary restrictions and even grazing muzzles. routine. Awareness, prevention and prompt treatment of laminitis are essential to keep your horses healthy this time of the year. If you suspect that your horse may be at risk for the condition or may be developing some foot soreness, please contact your veterinarian for advice.
Farrier jam sessions continue On the first Monday of each month, farriers and veterinarians gather to evaluate two horse “cases,” radiographing and shoeing them in a cooperative, learning environment. The first of these “Farrier Jam Sessions” was held on Monday, May 2 at the farm of Ron and Bibi Freer, DVM, with 16 farriers, five veterinarians, three owners and two horses in attendance. “We’re hoping that this group will grow and that these gatherings will become another example of our amazing equestrian community,” Dr. Freer said. Each case began with a brief history. Horse 1 was recovering from surgery, so no gait evaluation was done and decisions were based solely on the horse’s radiographs. Following the discussion, a plan was developed and the horse was later shod by participating farriers in accor-
dance with the radiographs and the surgeon’s requests. Horse 2 was jogged, flexed, blocked and radiographed. There were discussions on the radiographic findings, including diagnoses and angles. The horse was then shod by his primary farrier with the help of some of the participants. In both cases, the horses were radiographed again after shoeing to evaluate balance, confirm that the angles were improved and the desired “break-over point” was achieved. Farrier Jam Session cases must be referred by a farrier; horse owners interested in having their horses participate should consult with their farrier. Owners of participating horses are charged a flat fee, which covers the farrier’s materials and contributes to a fund for hiring clinicians/hosting continuing
A radiographic image of a farrier jam. (photo submitted)
education for the group. Farriers or veterinarians interested in the events can email freerequine@gmail.com or search
in Google Groups for “Farrier Jam Sessions.” – article submitted by Bibi Freer, DVM
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Genuine Lee Cool auditions to be America’s Favorite Trail Horse by Amy Farrell
Campobello resident Jennifer Israel and I pulled into McPhearson’s Quarter Horse Ranch in Bristol, Tenn., April 9, the second to arrive out of 46 competitors. It was the kickoff weekend for the America’s Favorite Trail Horse Regional Auditions, which took place from April 9-24 across the United States. I had the pleasure of going along with Israel as a friend, coach and groom. We both wondered what to expect from the competition. As the afternoon wore on more and more trailers arrived from Michigan, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Virginia and South Carolina. The horses that unloaded from these trailers represented Saddlebreds, Rocky Mountain Horses, Quarter Horses, Andalusian, Mustangs, Appaloosas, Paints and Tennessee Walkers. “This is the most different and unique thing - you don’t know exactly what they are looking for. What is so neat about this competition is so many different types of horses from all different disciplines are all together in one place,” Isreal said. The atmosphere was friendly. Everyone was enthused to be there and tell others about why their horse should be America’s Favorite. We even had one gentleman cowboy invite us back to his
Jennifer Israel and horse, Genuine Lee Cool, a.k.a. Jack, at the America's Favorite Trail Horse auditions. (photo by Amy Farrell)
trailer for chocolate cake. Each horse had to complete four obstacles in an indoor arena followed by a 45-second allotment to do an optional freestyle performance in the arena area. I couldn’t help but think that a horse audition in an indoor arena would be a bit like "American Idol" having competitors tap dance as a part of their audition. For Jennifer’s trusty steed, Genuine Lee Cool, a.k.a Jack, Friday afternoon was his first time schooling in an indoor arena. Prior to the competition each participant had to answer the following questions as Jennifer
answers below: What are you most proud of with your horse? “I had no idea this Appaloosa Quarter Horse colored a bit like an oatmeal raisin cookie would be my dream horse. It was not until my horse went into retirement and I started riding Jack regularly did I realize how much this horse knew and what a work ethic he really had. I should have always known in that large flat head with so much space between his eyes, there lies a significant sized brain. He is a gentleman and a dependable trail horse and is a crusader of courage
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 24
over any and every obstacle the trail may bring. He will proceed as a leader, as a follower, or solo. As the saying goes it’s all in a name, and Jack fits the bill. Jack’s registered name is General Lee Cool, and he is quite the cool customer.” What do you and your horse enjoy when you’re not on the trail? “Jack and I enjoy developing our lateral work and challenging ourselves with new obstacles. We enjoy the camaraderie of our trail friends, sharing a sub sandwich before hitting the trails. Jack will neglect his hay net to peer around
and try to be part of the girls’ picnic table. My friend will throw him a black olive from her sub sandwich from time to time so he feels included. Jack begs to participate and be included. He a personable companion on and off the trail.” Why should your horse be America’s Favorite Trail Horse? “America’s favorite trail horse needs to capture the essence of America, the product of true horsemanship and display how he can become a team with the human species. Jack will do it all, from packing around a beginner to demonstrating his true suppleness, versatility and athleticism for the more experienced rider. He is an absolute blast and he is Genuine Lee Cool. Jack, my Appaloosa Quarter Horse, is America’s favorite trail horse.” Everyone was a bundle of nerves Saturday morning. When each competitor entered the arena the four judges spanned across the long side of the arena and called each participant by name. Once the start cones were passed by horse and rider the judging began. After completing four obstacles with the optional 45-second freestyle performance each competitor went on to complete the video interview done by an ACTHA representative. At that point you were given the opportunity to express in your own words why your horse should be America’s favorite trail horse. I
must admit listening to several of the video interviews there were a fair number of equine celebrities on site, from a Dun QH gelding that is a high school mascot to a Saddlebred mare named Sugar that did everything from showing, barrel racing and rounding up cattle to taking small children on bareback rides. The best advice I could give Jennifer as she waited to enter the arena was “to ride the horse you're on.” In other words, he may be backed off by the indoor arena, he may be spooky, most likely he will be different than the Jack you know, so you must “ride the horse you are on” at that particular moment. And she did. I am quite proud of both Jennifer and Jack, they make a terrific team. Jennifer chose to use her 45 seconds to show the judges Jack’s suppleness and even cadence by doing some figure eights at the working trot. After Israel was done with her interview she already had fans from the audience. Four ladies stopped her to inquire if Jack is a dressage horse. I think that was the ultimate compliment for this pair. And I know from personal experience when out on the actual trail, that they are the team to take the lead when astride a difficult horse. Not only that but they are well versed in trail etiquette which seems to be a seldom quality in this day in age. “When you need him he’s there; he’s spot on,” Jennifer said of Jack.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 25
Sarah Ketcham rides 7-year-old Vodka Bay as the mare jumps over a blue oxar. (photo submitted)
Ketcham sets sights high, trains to reach them by Barbara Childs
At just 16, Sara Ketcham spends sometimes long days of riding to prepare herself for her ultimate goals – capturing
a spot on the Junior Team of Young Riders and Indoors and eventually becoming a competitive Grand Prix Rider. “My trainer, Holli Adams,
involves me in every aspect of training a horse. It’s very rewarding for me to be involved and see the progress of a young horse,” Ketcham said.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 26
“I love going to horse shows because it shows me where to improve my riding. It gives (Continued on p. 27)
• Ketcham
so we have taken time with her. She’s been a big challenge for me - so different me a good idea on what I need than any horse I have ridden. We recently moved up to the to work on at home.” In order for Ketcham to High Junior Jumpers in Noqualify for the Young Riders vember; and now we are tryTeam, she needs to show in her ing to figure each other out,” divisions at recognized shows Ketcham said. “My goals for in Atlanta, Virginia and Wash- her are to qualify for Young ington, D.C. Plus, she still has Riders and Prix de States this to ride at home, sometimes year. My third horse is Willy, a 9-year-old bought a year ago seven or eight horses a day. During the winter she com- as a hunter prospect. We have petes in the winter show sea- started doing junior hunters and a few derbies son in Gulfport, with him.” Miss. Showing Spotlight When growing here at local recup in the British ognized shows on Local Islands, is also a big part Equestrians Virgin Ketcham took of her riding life lessons available and necessary to qualify for the Young Riders. at the animal shelter. She had K e t c h a m w o r k s i n p a r- her first riding lesson when t i c u l a r w i t h t h r e e h o r s e s she was 5. She took the lesson on a that she shows and rides. Louie is a Grand Prix school Bush pony taught by an exhorse and Ketcham says he’s Swedish jockey. Later on, the horse that has made the her family spent summers in biggest impact in her riding Colorado and would lease ponies for her to ride and show. career. Louie has taken Ketcham The first pony Ketcham owned into numerous Grand Prix was named Giorgio, and he classes and has maintained remained in Colorado throughhis sense of humor through all out the year. “He was a seasoned show her learning curves. Ketcham schools and rides with Holli pony and knew his job well. Adams at Still Creek Farm, He was a great teacher and where Louie is a barn favorite. started me off on my riding Her other horse, a mare, career,” Ketcham said. Ketcham started homeVodka Bay, is 7 years old. “I’ve been riding her for schooling two years ago so three years. She is a very she could travel and ride to careful mare and unorthodox, horse shows.
(continued from page 26)
Ketcham positions herself as Louie, a Grand Prix school horse, leaps over a green oxat during a recent competition. Ketcham aims to capture a place on the Junior Team of Young Riders. She recently won a $10,000 competition in Gulfport, Miss. (photo submitted)
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 27
Spanish horse culture pervades trainer's style by Barbara Childs
Holly Hansen first became acquainted with the Andalusian breed of horses in Bozeman, Mont. Working for Christopher Parkening, who was second in the world to Segovia for classical guitar, Hansen was introduced to the Spanish horses by his wife, Barbara. They both had several high school dressage horses and Hansen was trained to ride them in the exhibitions. It was during one of these exhibitions that Sir Tomas Batalla from San Jose, Costa Rica approached Barbara Parkening about starting a business venture importing PREs (Purs Raza Espanol) horses from Spain. “I was approached to live in Spain for a period of time to study the Spanish horse and learn more about their history, bloodlines, the Spanish culture and their method of training,” Hansen said. “I lived in the south of Spain with the family of Sr. Francisco Lazo Diaz, who was one of the most respected breeders of pure Spanish horses in Andalusia, the southern most region of Spain. That is where my love and understanding of the Spanish horse came into existence for me.” Hansen was given more opportunities to ride and show the imported horses after returning to the United States.
Holly Hansen participating in a Pas de Trois during her last Classical Symposium in Texas. Hansen recently purchased a farm in Columbus and is now a full-time Polk County resident.
She made trips to England, France, Portugal and Spain and visited South and Central America as executive director for the International Andalusian Horse Association. “I attended championships held in these countries and rode with classical masters Sr. Luis Ramos Paul in Spain and Michel Henriquet, whose training facil-
ity was just outside Versailles, France. This lifestyle gave me a good view into the genius of Nuno Olivera,” Hansen said. “Staying consistent, quiet and honest to the horses, I was able to learn much from his valued classical ways. I also trained with his longtime student, Stephanie Grant Millham, who now resides in northern
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Appointments • June 2011 • p. 28
Virginia. Stephanie taught me about a great friendship with the horse and Nuno Oliver’s techniques.” Classical dressage is about the basic, quiet, day-to-day work of gently gymnastizing and suppling the horse to make him stronger and give him confi(Continued on p. 29)
• Spanish style (continued from page 28)
dence and to keep his mind open and receptive. The innocence of horses and their minds are to be respected and treasured. Once that is robbed, whether due to ignorance or apathy, the horse always suffers. “I have rehabilitated many horses in my 31-year career who would have offered freely their best, but due to harsh and unfair training methods, were diminished,” she said. “Classical dressage takes what nature gave the individual horse, through quiet understanding and methodical work, and then allows him to make a proud display. Just as in nature, the horse will show all of the movements with incredible energy, but without any negative tension. Therein lies the artistry of classical dressage training.” Hansen said people often ask what the difference is between
classical and competitive dressage. “Good training is good training, she said. “Whatever we do with the horse, no matter what breed or discipline, the work should always be done for the good of the horse and with complete understanding of its individual strengths and weaknesses,” Hansen said. “There is nothing wrong with competition, but I don’t think you can train a movement in a test by riding that movement. Successful training is done by taking your time and appreciating the beauty of the journey.” Hansen said she starts her horses quietly and carefully. “The work in hand is so important, just as correct lunging and long lining is necessary for young horses to learn everything correctly,” she said. “It builds strength and confidence over time and gives the horse a better understanding of what is being asked of him. Horses by nature
are willing and want to please, so having a training regimen that makes them feel confident is imperative.” Hansen has several horses to teach her students classical dressage in the classical position. This is how they learn to develop an independent seat, quiet hands through relaxation of the aids and better balance. The balance of the horse is dependent on the balance and posture of the rider. “One of the hardest things for people to do is to let go and do nothing. We always want to have control and fix things with our hands,” she said. “Then we end up riding our horses from front to back instead of being able to soften, let go and ride forward without tension in the horse’s neck and back, pelvis or joints. I am fortunate to have horses at various levels of training from basic to horses that can teach the feel of soft, elastic piaffe and passage.”
Hansen said she hopes by passing along the history, philosophy, cultural awareness and techniques of the old masters of classical work in dressage that those searching for this type of training will find a place to learn. Hansen is the founder and president of the Foundation for Classical Horsemanship, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to passing along these principles. Horses are a way of life for Hansen. She said they have given her humility, joy in the simple things of life and they keep her sense of humor alive. “I am so grateful that the next chapter in my life will be in Columbus, at a beautiful small farm where I can do quality work and enjoy my horses, family, friends and be surrounded by exquisite mountain views,” she said. “I feel like I’m coming home to paradise.”
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Appointments • June 2011 • p. 29
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• Calendar (continued from page 2)
Club Charity Horse Show II, A-rated, at FENCE. Info: 828859-6109 or www.trhcevents. com.
The Henderson County Mounted Patrol Unit present colors at the opening of the 65th annual Block House Steeplechase. (photo by Samantha Hurst)
Mounted patrol forming Polk County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Michael Capps plans to host an informational meeting regarding the creation of a Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol Thursday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at the Womack Building, across from the Polk County Courthouse. Patrol volunteer applicants must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen and a resident of Polk County or an adjoining county. Applicants must have access to
a horse, horse trailer and vehicle to pull, approved by the department for use in Mounted Patrol functions and training. A criminal background check will be conducted on all applicants, and those applying must complete the department approved equestrian training program before being accepted into the Mounted Patrol. –submitted by Lt. Michael Capps
Coming to aid fellow horse lovers According to Libbie Johnson with Tryon Horse Country, there is a way for local horse lovers to help fellow horse owners in Alabama hit by severe storms April 27. The Birmingham Dressage & Combined Training Association is teaming up with Rhonda John-
son-Bowles from Land O' Lakes Purina Feeds, The Alabama Horse Council, Cahaba Pony Club and U.S. Pony Club South Region to provide assistance. Find more information at www.BDCTA.com or by contacting BirminghamDCTA@ gmail.com.
7/14-17: Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Charity Horse Show III, A-rated, at FENCE. Info: 828-859-6109 or visit www.trhcevents.com. 7/17: FENCE Cross Country Schooling at FENCE. Info: FENCE 828-859-9021 or HorseShow@FENCE.org. 7/23-24: FRC Schooling Dressage & Stadium at FENCE. Info: Margo Savage, 828-863-4924. 7/23-24: Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Junior Amateur Horse Show, A-rated, at Harmon Field. Info: 828-8596109 or www.trhcevents.com. 7/29 – 8/1: Rick Quinn Horsemanship Clinic at FENCE. Info: Dottie Davis, 828-891-4372 or email Larryanddottie1@bellsouth. net. 8/5-8/7: Progressive Show Jumping at FENCE. Info: Rick Cram, 803-649-3505 or www. psjshows.com.
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 30
8/27: Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Horse Trials at FENCE. Info: 828-859-6109 or visit www.trhcevent.com. 9/3: Dancing Under the Stars – TROT benefit at FENCE. Info: 828-8599021 or via e-mail at admin@ FENCE.org. 9/10-11: Borderline Dressage at FENCE. Info: Kay Whitlock 910-692-3504 or www.carolinadressage.com. 9/17: FRC Schooling Dressage & Stadium at FENCE. Info: Margo Savage 828-863-4924 or visit foothillsridingclub.org. 9/18: FRC Cross Country Schooling at FENCE. Info: Margo Savage 828-863-4924 or visit foothillsridingclub. org. 9/24-25: Tryon Fall Classic at FENCE. Info: Classic Co. 843-768-5503 or visit www.classiccompany. com. 10/1-2: 36th Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Horse Trials at FENCE. Hosting the USEA/ Chronicle of the Horse Adult Team Challenge. Info: 828859-6109 or visit www. trhcevent.org.
Appointments The Hoofbeats of the Carolina Foothills
Showcasing Local Horsepeople
Big Brother Big Sister Hunter Pace & Trail Ride
Left: Third Place Field Hunters Rod Hawk and Eileen Taylor at the Hunter Pace May 7 benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters. Above: First place trail riders Sally and Russ Rock pose for the photographer at the BBBS Hunter Pace. (photos by Jan Smith)
Robin Groves carriage driving clinic at Latigo Farm
Left: Carol Ann Burns and Jasper. This duo will be competing in the CCC Horse Driving Trial at FENCE Memorial Day weekend, May 28 - 29. Right: Robin Groves Driving Fort Riley with owner Nancy Mahler navigating. Although Riley is going pleasantly, a subsequent change of bitting made a great improvement. (Photo by Latina Raville).
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 31
Appointments • June 2011 • p. 32