July 2017 YourDressage

YOURDRESSAGE

July 2017

A United States Dressage Federation Publication

Sarah Lyons works to benefit others

Welcome to Your Wonderful World of Dressage YourDressage is compiled by the United States Dressage Federation, written by participants from throughout the dressage community. The articles in this publication are submitted by people like you to share and be shared by all. Experience their stories as they navigate through the wonderful world of dressage and become friends with your dressage community.

It’s YourDressage, be part of it! If you would like to submit your story see the last page of this publication.

Get Connected

The 2017 USDF Online Stallion Guide is now LIVE! This annual online stallion guide is released by the United States Dressage Federation for the dressage community.

The guide is available both through the USDF website and the USDF app.

Featured article this year is, “The Hottest Bloodlines in Rio” which looks at what sport-horse pedigrees were represented in the 2016 Olympics.

We continue our look at breeding statistics from USDF’s major championships, adding Great American/USDF Regional Championshps.

Once again we have the “Index of Progeny for Advertised Stallions,” which includes progeny that have ranked 1-100 in Adequan®/USDF Year-End Awards. It also includes horses that have placed in US Dressage Finals, Great American/USDF Regional 2017 USDF Championships, and Great Online Stallion Guide American/USDF Breeders Championships from 2009-2016.

This guide contains interactive links to give you all the information you need to make a favorable breeding decision. Whether interested in breeding, or looking for a breeder with offspring already on the ground, this is a great way to learn more about dressage breeders throughout North America.

The Hottest Bloodlines in Rio

Trending Stallions in the Sport Horse Arena: USDFBC Statistics

Pursit of Excellence: Regional Championship Statistics

Finals by the Numbers: US Dressage Finals Statistics

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Give us your feedback. #yourdressage

WHAT TO SEE INSIDE DEPARTMENTS YOUNG & INSPIRED: One Less in the Lot Madeline Kurz tells her inspirational story of rescuing a horse from a feedlot that became her riding partner.

HORSE TALES: The Avatar Connection Beatrice Marienau fulfills her dreams and goals by finding her equine soulmate Stefano.

MY TIME TO RIDE: Priceless Experience Mary Elledge travelled with her daughter Rhonda from Oregon to the US Dressage Finals and found it a worthwhile experience.

HEARD AROUND THE ARENA: National Dressage Pony Cup The National Dressage Pony Cup held at the Kentucky Horse was a fun competition for all.

USDF FLASHBACK: Colonel Donald Thackeray Thackeray (1915-1995) was able to persuade various organizations to take dressage more seriously, and also brought European officials to judge US competitions.

GMO SPOTLIGHT: New England Dressage Association (NDA) Take a look at this group member organization.

COVER STORY Inspired by Horse and Haku Sarah Lyons grew up around horses in beautiful Hawaii. Her life with horses led her to the Haku Baldwin Center where she works to benefit others.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

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YOUNG & INSPIRED

One Less in the Lot

By Madeline Kurz

I

Atlas (left) with Madeline and her other horse Vinny at Easter time.

n the equestrian community, perhaps one of the most controversial topics that exists today is that of horse slaughter. Whether one is for it or against it, the welfare of the horses is something that has stirred emotions among horse owners, and is something that personally struck me to take action.

In October of 2016, I met my horse Atlas, or as the feedlot referred to him, number 200. I saw his picture before I knew anything about him. He was a Thoroughbred, with legs that were covered in mud, a long and tangled man, and a thin tail that was chewed off in places.

His feet were long, and well overdue for a trim, and his eyes had a defeated and sad look to them. He was thin and his coat was dirty. It was one of those pictures that could turn the pit of your stomach. I asked for more information on him, even though I wasn’t in the position to purchase a second horse. I found out that he had his papers with him and that his registered name was July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

YOUNG & INSPIRED

Altas in the feedlot.

Foolish Chopper. He had been a direct sale to the feedlot. I looked him up on Equibase, a website where Thoroughbreds with a racing career can be researched, and found out that he was born in Washington, on March 17, 2009. He was a raced Thoroughbred, winning a total of $15,924 over the course of 30 starts.

I stared at his picture for a few minutes. That’s all it took for me to fall in love. Shortly after, I bought him for $500.

My drive to the feedlot took over eight hours, all of which I spent preparing myself for what I might see. I thought I would be able to handle it, but nothing could have prepared me for what I would soon see. For those who have never been to a feedlot, it is nearly indescribable. The pens are crowded, the babies have wild, scared eyes, and older horses have a haunted, exhausted demeanor. Some can hardly walk because their feet are so damaged. Cuts aren’t taken care of because medical care isn’t given.

When I went into the pen to catch Atlas, they all ran because they July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

YOUNG & INSPIRED

Atlas with Madeline

were scared; scared of people. Despite the fact that I moved slowly, some of the horses still wanted nothing to do with me. My horse though, let me slowly walk up to him, with my hand outstretched.

Once I got up to him, I could see the whites of his eyes. He let me put a lead rope around his neck and slide a halter onto his face.

I led him out of the pen, talking to him in a soft voice. Being an ex-racehorse, he loaded into the trailer nicely, for the drive home.

It took a long time to get over the heartbreak of leaving horses in that place, to this day I still feel some guilt because I could not take them all. It was after midnight when I got him unloaded and turned out into the pen that was being used for quarantine. Because it was October, there was still grass on the ground and, even in the dark, I could see him running and playing in between bites. I remember crying as I watched him by the light of the moon.

In the morning, I flew out the door to go see him. I bought a bag

of carrots and a couple of apples on the way. I spent that entire first day with him. He was scared still, and it took a while just to pet him. One of the saddest things I remember was that he seemed to not know what carrots or apples were, like he had never been fed treats before. To this day, he takes them so daintily.

That day was spent getting to know each other. I talked to him while he grazed, I fed him carrots and apples, I didn’t even try to halter him, I just hung out with him. I knew that we would become friends, it was just going to take time.

That week, I went to see him every day, after riding my other horse, Vinny. I would feed him grain and carrots, and groom him. Towards the end of his first week with me, I noticed that his hind legs were really swollen. My vet came out and took a nasal swab, and he was diagnosed with Equine Distemper and EVH-4, or Strangles and Rhino. Strangles is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection and Rhino is another contagious respiratory July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

YOUNG & INSPIRED ANIMAL SAFETY WARNING For LEGEND Injectable Solution 4 mL and LEGEND Multi Dose Injectable Solution – Not for Intra-articular use. The Intra-articular safety of hyaluronate sodium with benzyl alcohol has not been evaluated.

disease. It was not surprising that he got sick after being in a feedlot, where germs run wild. Atlas was fortunate enough to have a decent immune system, which allowed for him to fight his sickness well.

I spent every night taking care of him, telling him he was going to be okay. He started to trust me. He would meet me at the gate of his pen, nickering softly. It took until January, but when the last nasal swab was taken, it came back clean.

Now out of quarantine, he lives in a pen right next to Vinny, his ‘adoptive brother’. I have put about thirty rides on him, and started his dressage training. He always aims to please, and is such a fun horse to work with. He now has a shiny black coat, shoes on his feet, his own tack, and a home where he will be loved for the rest of his life. I will never be able to thank my amazing trainer, her daughter/ my best friend, and my extraordinary veterinarian enough, for all the help they gave me. He will be showing Training Level this summer, alongside Vinny, hopefully

qualifying to go to the regional championships, and participating in the USDF International Rescue Horse All Breeds Division.

I was lucky enough to rescue a horse that was able to have a job and a future. So, if you ever have the opportunity to rescue a horse, I say do it. Give a horse your patience, put in the time it takes to let them trust again. Rescue a baby that has years of life ahead of him.

Rescue an old gelding, who can pack your kids around the yard.

Rescue a mare that is ready to have her baby, and needs a soft place to land. Rescue a Thoroughbred who just isn’t quite fast enough. Take a chance on one of the thousands of horses that may not be bred with the perfect bloodlines, but will still make the perfect best friend.

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CONTRAINDICATIONS There are no known contraindications for the use of LEGEND® Injectable Solution and LEGEND® Multi Dose Injectable Solution in horses.

eTRAK Extra

Read about another person's experience with rehabbing a neglected horse in the November 2015 USDF Connection magazine.

RESIDUE WARNINGS Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

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ADVERSE REACTIONS No side effects were observed in LEGEND Injectable Solution clinical field trials. Side effects reported post-approval: Following intravenous use: Occasional depression, lethargy, and fever.

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ANIMAL SAFETY SUMMARY Animal safety studies utilizing LEGEND Multi Dose Injectable Solution were not performed. LEGEND Multi Dose Injectable Solution was approved based on the conclusion that the safety of LEGEND Multi Dose Injectable Solution will not differ from that demonstrated for the original formulation of LEGEND Injectable Solution. LEGEND Injectable Solution was administered to normal horses at one, three and five times the recommended intraarticular dosage of 20 mg and the intravenous dose of 40 mg. Treatments were given weekly for nine consecutive weeks. No adverse clinical or clinical pathologic signs were observed. Injection site swelling of the joint capsule was similar to that seen in the saline treated control horses. No gross or histological lesions were observed in areas of the treated joint.

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July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

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Merial is now part of Boehringer Ingelheim. ®LEGEND is a registered trademark, and TMthe Horse Logo and TMMAX, Merial Awards Xpress are trademarks, of Merial. ©2017 Merial, Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. EQUIOLG1605-A (03/16)

HORSE TALES

The Avatar Connection

By Beatrice Marienau

D

uring the show season of 2011, my former trainer and I realized that my wonderful schoolmaster, Reve de Neige, was growing old, and my small tour horse, Quirinius, was not quite ready for Grand Prix yet. We decided that we should look for a horse that could take me into the international show arena. I was very lucky to find a wonderful sponsor, who agreed to support me on that quest.

In November 2011, I went to Germany and drove thousands of miles, all across Europe. After ten rainy, grey days, without much luck in finding what I was looking for, we arrived in Iserlohn at Arnd Erben’s barn. Stefano 8 was all tacked up and ready to go. We watched the warm up, and I tried hard not to show that I was already in love with him. Stefano was simply stunning! I hopped on and immediately had, what I call, the “Avatar Connection”. We connected with Stefano and Beatrice. Terri Miller photo.

each other without words, just by heart and thoughts. Within a few minutes, we did everything out of the Grand Prix test, pretty much on the first try. Not perfect yet, but we spoke the same language. Needless to say, I was in love.

On December 26, all the due diligence and finances were dealt with, and we celebrated Stefano 8, also known as Fino, becoming a family member. We decided that it would be best for him to stay in Germany, with my former trainer, while I would travel back and forth. During the first part of 2012, both of my old FEI horses got injured, and we decided to bring Stefano over to the USA. Sadly, within two months after Stefano arrived, my small tour horse passed away. Later that year, my schoolmaster passed away as well. Both of them died due to surgical complications. I was devastated, and without Fino, I would have never found my way out of the darkness, or even continued riding. He reminded me that every day could be a good day.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

HORSE TALES

That year, we competed in just one national show, but realized that the emotional pain was too much for me to endure while showing. In the fall, Fino and I went back to Lilo Fore, my trainer and mentor. Stefano and I needed a refresher to address a few issues. Even though Fino was a successful young Grand Prix horse, he needed to be dialed in to be a lady’s horse.

The words I heard most from Lilo in the first year were “be patient”, “have him wait”, “have him listen to you”, “first ride him small, so YOU can make him big”, and “first throughness and suppleness – then Grand Prix elements”. We were working to get a lighter connection, less manufactured gaits, and a more natural over the top line. Our biggest challenge was changing the negative tension into positive tension. Fino can get very easily stressed out, and he goes into the “snorting” or “fire breathing dragon mode”. Over the past five years, we have been able to miniJuly 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

mize these moments to almost nonexistent, at home, and are still trying to achieve that in the show ring.

Interestingly, last year, I was still finding out more about Fino’s history and character through the previous co-owner and trainer, Arnd Erben. Fino always has been a special case. In Germany, his stable behavior was questionable, like running grooms out of his stall during feeding time. Fino was quietly opinionated, in training and handling, he used to bite,

loved to buck, and if he didn’t like something, Fino was out of there.

Driving 400 km to a championship, entering the ring, getting spooked at C, while entering, and running out of the dressage arena, all the way back to the trailer, wasn’t fun. Fino also used to have an FEI-registered travel companion pony, which would travel with him everywhere. Without this pony, Fino would not travel.

Nevertheless, Arnd believed in Stefano and kept training him, with rider Bart Veeze, successful-

ly up to Grand Prix, in 2010. At the end of 2011, a “no show” year, the syndicate decided it was best to put Stefano 8 on the market.

Over these past five years, Fino has helped me to gain more and more confidence and experience, in the CDI show ring.

He has fulfilled my dreams and more, placing third behind Steffen Peters and Guenther Seidel in Burbank, in 2014, winning our first CDI 3* Freestyle in Murietta, CA, in 2014, placing second in CDI-W Grand Prix Special in Burbank 2015, qualifying for the Festival of the Champions in Wellington 2015, placing third in GDF I - CDI 3* Grand Prix Special 2016, winning GDF 5-CDI 3* Grand Prix Freestyle 2016, fulfilling the dream of competing internationally in Europe, and competing in a USA Nations Cup Team, in Denmark.

Besides all the dreams and goals that this amazing horse has fulfilled for me, the most important is that he is my soulmate, my guardian in horse version.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

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MY TIME TO RIDE

Priceless Experience

By Mary Elledge

T

raveling to the 2015 and 2016 US Dressage Finals from Oregon to Kentucky, with my adult daughter, proved to be a priceless experience.

In 2015, my daughter Rhonda drove with another young woman who was also competing at the show. Rhonda drove the horse trailer, and my husband kept a map on the wall in our home, marking her distance as she drove. We timed it just right, so that when I flew into Lexington, she would meet me at the airport.

I was not the least bit disappointed in the beautiful grounds at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Throughout the competition, heated stalls in the morning were a delight. The horses are kept well fed, given special treats continually, and groomed to perfection.

I would dare to say we all became second-class citizens to our four Rhonda riding Hanno at the 2016 US Dressage Finals

legged friends! Getting up a 4:00 a.m. was no problem- the horses needed tending! Making the trip even more memorable, was the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff and those competing.

When we had any spare time, we tried to see many of the local sights dedicated to the importance of horses. The history, especially that which dealt with the impact of horses on our lives, was so evident in the horse museums and the statues of famous horses.

Watching the Keeneland race horse sales was a compelling and unforgettable experience. Seeing such gorgeous horses walk and trot in the rings seemed surreal.

We learned to sit on our hands, as some of these race horses were selling for six figures. There was no waving at anyone when bids were being accepted! We found that the people in Kentucky were friendly and accommodating.

We enjoyed the restaurants and met wonderful competitors and trainers.

When we found out Rhonda July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

MY TIME TO RIDE

qualified again in 2016, there was no hesitation about going back to Kentucky. This time, we drove the 5200 miles together. We even brought an extra horse. Three horses to care for only made our trip more challenging, but we knew we could handle it.

Making the trip even more eventful was following along with trainer Brook Voldbaek and her husband, Don. Tom Murry and his horse came with them as well.

It was delightful talking to them and stopping at the same truck stops for fill-ups. It was remarkable how they called ahead and made accommodations for the horses at various farms, so the horses could rest after traveling.

We would let the farms know when we would be arriving, and there would be clean stalls and bedding waiting for the horses.

We stayed in the trailers! It was remarkable how quick 4:30 a.m. came. The horses would then be loaded, and we would be off Mary watches Rhonda riding Hanno

again. The time went quickly and the miles flew by. Knowing we were together, and sharing this quest, was one of the most memorable experiences a mother and daughter could have. It was truly quality time. It was great sharing our stay with such wonderful friends and fellow horse lovers.

Though we had been there the year before, there was so much we enjoyed seeing, again in 2016. “Knowing the ropes� made things even easier this last year. With three horses, we knew that, for early morning classes, it was too much of a change for the horses to leave a warm stall and return to a 32 degree outside temperature. So, we opted out of the heated stalls this time around. We even had Katie Gustafson and her friends, Honor and Tracy, fly down to visit us at the horse show. And, we still found time to sightsee. One could spend hours and hours in the horse museums, and still find more to see the next time.

Meeting more friends, and renewing friendships, added to July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

MY TIME TO RIDE

electric atmosphere. The horses did not let us down, nor did anything else. Having an adult for a daughter made the trip less work for me, as the mother, and it was a nice opportunity to see my daughter doing what she loves. Being together with your daughter, doing something she loves, is priceless. I saw the beauty of horses and riders working as one. It was also thrilling to watch the higher levels of dressage, and know the work and difficulty involved to achieve that level. Rhonda and I were inspired at what a horse and rider can accomplish. We hope to go again, together.

eTRAK Extra

Read about the 2016 US Dressage Finals in February 2016 USDF Connection magazine

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

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INSPIRED BY HORSES AND H AKU

by Sarah Lyons

The barn at Haku Baldwin Center

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

T

here is something truly special and gratifying about being able to work in a field that you love, and even better knowing that your work is benefiting others’ lives, in remarkable ways. And what if you were also blessed to work at an outstanding facility, surrounded by some of the most amazing co-workers?

That’s how I feel being a part of Haku Baldwin Center. It is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and a beautiful 33-acre equestrian center, located in Makawao, Maui, HI. It’s truly my home away from home.

Founded by Harriet “Haku” D. Baldwin, the Haku Baldwin Center offers a wide range of equestrian programs, horse shows, and special events. Regular lessons and training are also offered in dressage, hunter/ jumper, and western, as well as boarding. But to me, what is most special about Haku Baldwin Center is the range of therapeutic programs offered to the community, including: Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Animal-Assisted Therapy/Activities, Humane Animal Education, and

Sarah and HBC school horse Trinity

Horsemanship for Veterans. Each program facilitates human-animal interaction for therapeutic benefit, and celebrates the healing bond between people and animals. I couldn’t be more grateful to work at such a special facility.

My personal story begins on the island of Oahu, HI, where I grew up as the youngest of four. My Mom, being an avid hunter rider in her younger days, made sure to have horses and ponies for all of her children to grow up with. Horses have been a part of my life since the day I was born. For me, learning to ride happened in a variety of places: at home on a 24-acre property that my parents were caretakers of, in the endless cane field trails surrounding our property, at 4-H club gatherings, in various island competition arenas, and on the many beaches of Oahu’s North Shore. When it came to learning horsemanship and how to ride, horses were my best teachers, and they truly have shaped the path of my life. I am grateful to be where I am today because of the horses I rode growing up, and all of the lessons they taught me.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

Sarah and Maui's Moon Dancer

When I moved to Maui in 2001, I was just nineteen years old. I brought my 14-year-old mare Misty with me, from Oahu. Misty was a 15 HH Anglo-Arab cross, a phenomenal little horse with a huge heart and a whole lot of class. She was largely part of the reason I moved to Maui, and was the horse by my side at each facility. Her amazing work, teaching countless riders, followed her as she carried on teaching and competing in her later years at Haku Baldwin Center. Misty recently passed away at age 30, honorably, with a 30th birthday party, and thoroughly loved

Sarah and Walker

by so many.

A few years after my move to Maui, I was introduced to a talented, green, and very hot 9-year-old, 16 HH Thoroughbred named Moon, who had quite the reputation. He was a very sensitive, over-reactive horse, prone to bucking and spooking. While he was kind and intelligent, Moon had a lack of trust due to a challenging past. So, of course, I fell in love and he became the perfect horse for me! Moon and I became exceptional partners, and together, we worked our way up to competing successfully at Second

Level Dressage, schooling Third Level, and in the Hunters & Jumpers Open 3'6" divisions. He is the horse that inspired my love for dressage and motivated me to start my own business, as a trainer.

The third horse that inspired me, especially in regards to dressage, was a 17 HH 15-year-old Oldenburg/ Thoroughbred cross gelding named Walker, who had developed quite a reputation in the islands, being known for rearing, bolting, bucking, biting, and being downright dangerous, particularly on the ground. But since I love a challenge, and seem

to have a knack for training difficult horses, I excitedly took him on. He became my next dressage partner, competing up to First Level and schooling Second Level. In the time that I had the pleasure of owning him, Walker earned his good name back, and taught me a tremendous amount about truly harmonizing with an equine. Tragically, I recently lost Walker to a rare bone infection, after just four short years together. I fought for months to save him, but it was not meant to be. Walker has a special place in my heart and will always be fondly remembered.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

These three horses, in particular, helped shape the rider and trainer that I am today, and in more ways than one have helped shape the path that led me to Haku Baldwin Center.

The same can be said for each facility that I worked at, and the experiences I had along the way. I began working at this facility in 2012, when I received an offer to direct the Therapeutic Riding Program, as the current director was looking to retire. With much excitement, I graciously accepted the offer. With my background in therapeutic riding many years prior, and being certified with NARHA (now PATH Intl) as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, I was pleased to head Haku Baldwin Center’s Therapeutic Riding Program as director. This program currently serves 24 children with special needs, in weekly therapeutic riding sessions, using our team of wonderful therapeutic program horses. Our participants gain tremendous benefit from their weekly sessions and we have a growing team of wonderSarah (left) at the Haku Baldwin Center

ful individuals, both staff members and volunteers, who help make this program so successful.

Soon after I joined the team at Haku Baldwin Center, I also became one of the two riding instructors to offer training and lessons. Because I had been teaching and training dressage, hunter/jumper, and western for over fifteen years at various facilities, I was honored to begin teaching at such a renowned facility.

Being in the ring teaching and training is something that never gets old for me. I absolutely love being able to guide riders and horses toward a better partnership. Regardless of the discipline, a strong foundation of good horsemanship is at the core of all my teaching and training.

In my time at Haku Baldwin Center, I also helped inspire the development of our newest addition, the Horsemanship for Veterans Program, where we offer natural horsemanship lessons to active duty, disabled, and retired service men and women. As the director of this program, I am also one of the in-

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structors and have close interaction with the veterans. Consequently, this program has become very close to my heart. It has given back to our participants in ways that I could never have imagined. Our participants have become part of Haku Baldwin Center’s ohana (“family”), and this program has been amazingly positive and inspiring for so many of them.

Haku Baldwin’s other therapeutic programs are also dear to my heart. The Animal-Assisted Therapy/ Activities programs visit over 400 patients monthly, including patients and seniors in hospitals, rehabilitation, convalescent, assisted-care, pediatric, adult day care, and Alzheimer facilities. This program utilizes dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks, and chickens for visitation and therapy, enhancing the life of each patient that it serves. The Humane Animal Education program is offered to preschools, elementary schools, special education, and special interest groups such as 4H, girl scouts, and boy scouts, where they discuss the responsibilities

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and needs of taking care of rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks, chickens, horses, goats, dogs, cats, and pet fish.

All these programs make Haku Baldwin Center one of the most unique facilities on Maui. This organization gives back to the community on a daily basis, in the most genuine ways. We have an amazing group of staff and volunteers who make these programs possible, including a phenomenal general manager who keeps everything running smoothly and all of us working together, hand-in-hand. I am honored to work alongside each and every one of them.

Keeping everything in balance is my greatest challenge, but with so many wonderful and inspiring things that I am a part of, I wouldn’t change any of it. I am truly grateful to be part of such an amazing facility that has inspired me to grow professionally, and give back in the equestrian community.

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HEARD AROUND THE ARENA

What interesting or fun thing have you heard lately? Send it to us using #aroundthearena

The National Dressage Pony Cup held at the Kentucky Horse Park was a fun competition for all.

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USDF FLASHBACK

Colonel Donald Thackeray Reprinted from the October 2014 USDF Connection magazine.

T

o say that Col. Donald W. Thackeray is a Roemer Foundation/USDF Hall of Fame inductee is to grossly understate his equestrian accomplishments.

Thackeray (1915-1995) was the only person ever to become an International Equestrian Federation (FEI) “O” (now 5*) judge in four disciplines: dressage, eventing, jumping, and driving. He officiated at five Olympic Games and two Pan American Games, and he served as a director of the FEI, the American Horse Shows Association (now United States Equestrian Federation), and the United States Equestrian Team (now USET Foundation).

Podcast Alert

PODCAST

Check out our podcast episode 46 about Col. Donald W. Thackeray at usdf.podbean.com.

In his directorial roles, Thackeray was able to persuade the various organizations to take dressage more seriously, and also to bring European officials to judge US competitions. Undoubtedly his international world view, shaped by his military career and friendships with influential equestrians both at home and abroad, helped the cause.

Thackeray, a 1938 United States Military Academy graduate, is memorialized in a tribute article published by the West Point Association of Graduates.

USDF Connection thanks the West Point AOG for permission to reprint the following article.

Donald W. Thackeray 1938 Feb 5, 1995 • Died in New Windsor, MD Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA In Arlington Cemetery on 10 February 1995, the minister spoke the following words at the interment of Donald W. July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

USDF FLASHBACK

Thackeray: “The Colonel had the determination and discipline of a rider, the iron will of a soldier, the fairness of a judge, the wisdom of a teacher and an unwavering love for his family.” Little did she know that she had captured the quiet dignity of “Thack’s” 55 years of service to his comrades, his country, and the God who protected him through war and peace.

Thack was born in Wakefield, Rhode Island, on 20 May 1915, the son of Lieutenant Colonel Robert G. and Bessie Walker Thackeray. During the war years, his father served as commanding officer at Fort Adams, a coast artillery post in Newport, Rhode Island, resulting perhaps in his traditional beliefs in “the school of the horse” and the United States Cavalry. As a boy, Thack was often seen in the stables with the soldiers or riding the Army mules. As a young man, racing sailboats on Salt Pond probably influenced his decision to take the Navy cruise as a second class-

man instead of the more conventional Army tour. A superb athlete, he led South Kingston High School to a state championship in basketball.

Having kept the academic department at bay with “a spirited if not masterful defense,” Thack graduated with a significant list of accomplishments. He diligently learned the arts of riding, fencing, and gunnery and how to scale a fortress. While proceeding through the grades to cadet lieutenant, he earned numerals in tennis, fencing and sabre. As captain of the fencing team, he earned a minor “A” for three consecutive years and became an intercollegiate sabre champion in 1937 by winning the coveted Sands Trophy. He was especially successful at developing his equestrian skills and affinity for horses under the skillful coaching of Colonel A. A. (Hank) Frierson.

Thack’s initial assignment was to the 11th Cavalry as a troop officer. The 11th was still a horse outfit and, for two years, would

provide some of the most enjoyable service of his life. In 1939, he married Virginia “Jinny” Becker, a horsewoman in her own right and a frequent visitor at West Point. After becoming troop commander, they left California to join the Reconnaissance Troop, 5th Infantry Division, Fort Custer, Michigan. At Fort Custer, he served as Cavalry Troop and Reconnaissance Squadron commander and stayed with the 5th all the way through Iceland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Austria, and Czechoslovakia as Recon Squadron commander and division staff officer. After returning home, Thack served as advisor to one of the last horse units in the Army, Squadron “A,” New York National Guard. Here he enjoyed associating with the last vestige of the cavalry tradition and playing polo. This was followed by two years at Fort Knox with the Armored School and as a battalion commander, 3d Armored Division, before heading for Korea. He spent one year July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

USDF FLASHBACK

in Korea as G-2, IXth Corps and then returned to the 3d Armored Division, Fort Hood, Texas, as battalion and Combat Command “B” commander. After completing the Air War College, he spent three years as 0-2, First Army. In 1958 he was selected to be military attaché in Vienna, Austria.

While in Vienna, he befriended Colonel Alois Podhajsky, director of the Spanish Riding School, and Prince Phillip of England.

Upon return to the US, Thack completed a tour in the Pentagon with DIA and again was selected to serve as defense attaché in Bern, Switzerland. Returning to the US, he retired to his farm in western Maryland with a new dual career with the Maryland Department of Transportation and as an international equestrian administrator and judge. Jinny and Thack also raised and trained horses in their spare time.

Thack’s family legacy encompassed his partner in life for 56 years—Jinny—one daughter, one son, and four grandchildren.

His daughter Wick inherited his affinity for horses and equestrian competition. She is presently a trainer and horse breeder in Pennsylvania. His daughter Virginia carries on the equestrian family tradition in New Jersey.

Grandson Erik, a recent graduate of Florida Institute of Technology, aspires to be an airline pilot.

Thack’s son Buck is pursuing a career in the National Park Service as a park manager and recently retired from the Army Reserve. His daughter Ashley, a graduate of the University of Texas, is a mortgage broker in Naples, Florida. Thack’s youngest grandson, Jason, is studying to be a physician at the University of Florida. At Thack’s request, Buck’s wife, Jan, a minister, presided over his funeral.

Thack was one of a select few military men who shaped American and international equestrian sports after World War II. CapitalThackery and Anne Gibbons in an undated photo

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izing on opportunities afforded while serving as military attaché in Austria and Switzerland, he joined the elite network of equestrian athletes, officials and administrators. His first horse-show judging assignment was the jumping competition at New York’s National Horse Show while he was still on active duty with Squadron “A.” In 1972, he was a show-jumping judge at the Munich Olympics and, shortly thereafter, became an international dressage judge. Since then, he judged the Olympic Games at Montreal (1976), Los Angeles (1984), and Seoul (1988). [Editor’s note: Col. Thackeray also judged the dressage competition at the 1980 alternate Olympics in Goodwood, England.] Competitive driving of horse-drawn carriages was another of his interests in “retirement.” He helped draft rules for combined driving and officiated in scores of international events, such as the Pan American Games and World Championships in Barcelona, Spain. In 1987, he stepped down as chairman of the Fédéra-

tion Equestre Internationale’s (FEI) Driving Committee after 10 years and the FEI’s main policy-making body after 17 years. He also found time to serve the United States Equestrian Team in many official and administrative roles, with the most recent being vice president for driving. Recognition as Maryland’s “Horseman of the Year” in 1994 is typical evidence of his position in the equestrian community.

Undoubtedly, a majority of the riders in this country have had the honor to have been judged by Thack. The man who judged at the Olympics, Pan American Games, and many World Championships could often be seen in a dusty, impromptu dressage ring, having judged every novice and amateur, every rising star, with the same concentration and respect he showed for elite riders at international competitions. Thack was the only person in the world to have attained official FEI judge status in four disciplines:

dressage, driving, show jumping, and three-day eventing; yet he was always positive and encouraging toward every competitor no matter the level or polish.

One theme is clear after listening to many who associated with Thack during his 79 years: He selflessly served others in a quiet competent manner that will be remembered. In a letter to the editor of The Chronicle of the Horse, Captain Lorelei Wilson Coplan, coach of the USMA Equestrian Team, stated, “In his honor, we are establishing a perpetual memorial trophy to be awarded to the most improved underclass rider. This is in keeping, we believe, with the many sentiments expressed here about Colonel Thackeray’s promotion of struggling new enterprises, organizations, and individuals throughout his life.” She went on to reveal that while visiting the Class of 1938 Memorial Wall overlooking the Hudson River with him, he read the names of fallen comrades and had a story

about each. Not surprisingly, he could also remember which ones were “real horsemen” and which were not!

In 1909, G. K. Chesterton wrote, “Soldiers have many faults, but they have one redeeming merit: they are never worshipers of force. Soldiers more than any other men are taught severely and systematically that might is not right. The fact is obvious. The might is in the hundred men who obey, the right (or what is held to be right) is in the one man who commands them.” Thack was the epitome of this humble notion.

Thack once said, “Son, real soldiers qualify with the pistol by riding perpendicular to the target at a full gallop and place all rounds in the #10 ring.”

“Airborne Sir!” I said. “We’ll talk about it someday on Fiddler’s Green.” We all love you, Sir.

—The Thackeray Family

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GMO SPOTLIGHT

Tell us about your GMO. #GMOSpotlight

New England Dressage Association (NEDA) Group Member Organizations (GMOs) are the foundation of USDF and integral in bringing dressage and dressage education to the masses. Stay connected with your local dressage community and support dressage at the local level by joining a GMO in your area today!

USDF GMO Established: 1972 Locality: Region 8, New England Website: www.neda.com How many members does your GMO have annually, on average?

1600 members Tell us about your GMO. Over forty years ago, NEDA was founded to help build awareness and interest in the sport of dressage. Today, NEDA is the largest single chapter USDF GMO in the country. We are proud to offer our members top quality educational, competitive, and scholarship opportunities. We have many membership options and welcome all equine enthusiasts to join, participate, and volunteer.

NEDA's origins began at the 1968 Olympics held in Mexico City.

Several equestrian enthusiasts attended the dressage competition and returned to New England determined to learn more about the sport.

They connected with a handful of riders with training in dressage, including Tom Poulin and Jack Burton, an Olympic eventer. When NEDA was formed in 1972, there were about 40 members. By 1973, there were 159 members. Interest in the sport quickly grew at the national level, leading to the formation of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF). NEDA was a charter founding member of the USDF, and many of NEDA's early leaders also populated the committees and leadership roles of USDF. NEDA lent its organizational expertise to many other fledgling dressage organizations across the country.

The current mission of NEDA is "to promote and support the Art and Sport of Dressage to the equestrian community for the purpose of fostering individual and collective growth by providing leadership, education, exhibitions, publications, competitions and to enhance greater public awareness, understanding, and appreciation for the discipline of Dressage."

In support of this mission, NEDA offers members benefits and discounts to educational events through the entire Northeast Region.

In addition, all NEDA members receive a complimentary subscription to NEDA's award winning, "A Tip of the Hat" Newsletter, and NEDA’s ''The Salute" yearbook. Both of these publications have won many USDF honors for content and design over the years.

NEDA maintains an award-winning website, and has established a lively and engaged social media presence, including Facebook pages, lnstagram, and Twitter accounts. NEDA's communications network is one of our most valuable assets, reaching members and non-members alike with all the latest information and event schedules in the region.

NEDA also supports sport horse breeders and owners. The NEDA Sporthorse Committee consists of dedicated volunteers committed to improving sport horse breeding and showing in the New England area. NEDA promotes breeders and owners through the USDF Breeders Championship Series/ NEDA Series, and NEDA hosts breed show qualifiers and the championship final at the NEDA July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE

GMO SPOTLIGHT

Fall Festival of Dressage. Additionally, the NEDA Stallion Season Auction is an extremely popular annual fundraiser.

Does your GMO offer unique classes or activities that cater to youth, adult amateurs, or professionals? If so, please provide a brief description.

For competitors, NEDA hosts three recognized dressage shows and two schooling shows each year. The Fall Festival of Dressage, now a CDI*** World Cup Qualifier, is run in conjunction with the GAIG/USDF Regional Championships and Breeders Championship Series Final. Covering five days of competition in up to eight rings, it is believed that the NEDA Fall Festival has grown to be the largest dressage show in the United States and attracts international competitors at the world-class HITS facility in Saugerties, New York.

As part of NEDA's mission to "Promote and Support the Art and Sport of Dressage," educational scholarships are made available to NEDA members who wish to pursue training and personal

goals in dressage. Scholarships are used to participate in educational programs that include seminars, workshops, clinics, and training programs offered by recognized or certified instructors. This program has two specific objectives: to provide the widest possible range of dressage education to the greatest number of members, and to support the development of dressage in the field of international competition. Scholarships, ranging from $1000-$4000, are awarded twice a year. Adult Amateurs, Professionals, and Juniors are all encouraged to apply.

NEDA is fueled by passionate volunteers. To recognize our extraordinary volunteer support base, NEDA awards the Ann Villani Memorial Award for outstanding commitment to NEDA, education, and volunteerism. The recipient receives a $1 000 prize.

What type of educational events does your GMO offer?

NEDA has continued to feature top dressage trainers and riders from all over the world for symposia, including Ulla Salzge-

ber, Anky van Grunsven, Steffen and Shannon Peters, Klaus Balkenhol, Hubertus Schmidt, Debbie McDonald, Stephen Clark, Ashley Holzer, and Ingrid Klimke.

In October of 2017, NEDA is proudly hosting Olympic Gold Medalist Carl Hester for our Fall Symposium. This highly anticipated event is expected to attract a large audience at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, Maine.

The NEDA Educational Outreach program offers NEDA members discounts on partnered riding clinics, adult amateur camps, and educational events in the New England region. The Education Outreach program helps Region 8 GMOs, non-profits, and NEDA members in gaining access to a wider audience for their educational events through NEDA’ s vast reach through the "Tip" newsletter, periodic membership emails, social media, and our website calendar.

Additionally, training judges was one of NEDA's core goals when it was first founded, and it continues to be a priority for the organization. NEDA has hosted

the popular USDF "L" Program many times. Part I, which includes three lectures and practice judging weekends, is popular not only for program participants, but also for auditors and demo riders.

What type of “fun” events does your GMO offer?

NEDA has a robust and competitive Year-End Awards program, and traditionally we hold a banquet celebrating our award winners. The event serves as a fun social opportunity to connect outside of the barn, to celebrate NEDA, and accomplishments from the show year.

Additionally, the NEDA Fall Festival of Dressage features several fun social events: a welcome party held at the breed show pavilion, a wine and cheese reception at the CDI jog, and the competitors' party. All events are free and open to all on the grounds: competitors, their guests, volunteers, judges, etc. Traditionally, these events have featured entertaining activities such as a hula hoop contest, a golf cart decorating competition, and silent auctions.

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YOUR CONNECTION TO DRESSAGE

EDUCA

© John Borys Photography

© John Borys Photography

www.usdf.org

We Want Your Story YourDressage is a chance to share your story with the dressage community. We are looking for personal stories about you, your horse, or horse-related experience. Your story should be 600-1000 words and should be sent as a Word document. We will need photos to go with the story, with a preference for candid shots that are clear and well composed. Please submit photos as JPEG formatted files.

Also, if you have any video(s) that we can use, related to your story, make sure to include their hyperlinks.

Please send your submission or any questions via e-mail at epubs@usdf.org

Learn More About Dressage Have questions about dressage and the United States Dressage Federation, use the following links to learn more.

About Dressage

Education

usdf.org/about/about-dressage

education@usdf.org

About USDF usdf.org/about/about-usdf

Disclaimer: The United States Dressage Federation does not guarantee that all submitted stories will be published. Any opinions expressed in the pages of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Dressage Federation

usdf.podbean.com

Online Learning/eTRAK Calendar

usdf.org/e-trak

usdf.org/calendar

Youth

Membership

usdf.org/education/youth.asp youth@usdf.org

usdf.org/join membership@usdf.org

Group Member Organizations Note: USDF strongly recommends all riders wear protective headgear when mounted. For complete rules regarding helmets refer to the USEF Rule Book. Click here.

USDF Podcasts

Find a GMO in your region Search for a GMO by zip code gmo@usdf.org

Store usdf.org/store merchandise@usdf.org

Horse Registration usdf.org/faqs/horse-registration.asp horseregistration@usdf.org

For more information, check out the USDF Member Guide available on the USDF website and app.

July 2017 Z YOURDRESSAGE