Elite Equestrian magazine March/April 2021 issue by Elite Equestrian LLC

ELITE

EQUESTRIAN

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

CURO - Diagnostics “Revealing the Unseen”

NIC ROLDAN Peek Inside His Life SPRING Fashion Volume 21 Issue 2 Complimentary

AIKEN, SC Highlight

TRAILER SAVING A TREASURE Maintenance Persano Breed Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

2021 Stud Fee: $1000 Inc First Collection and Shipment Live Foal Guarantee

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• Extra tall • Large Dressing Room • WERM Floor • Fans in all corners • Aluminum wheels • LED lights inside and out • Plus lots more

Drop by or call and let us tell you the 4 Star Diﬀerence! www.coas�ocoas�railer.com

ontents March/April 2021

COVER STORY

CURO Diagnostics Latest in Equine Sports Medicine

Fashion • Home • Art

16 MUST HAVES For you, your horse and farm

18 SPRING Fashion Botanical Colors 18 BLING for SPRING EXCEPTIONALLY EQUESTRIAN 22 Difore Scarves 24 Tablescapes and more 26 EQUINE Art Claudia Peterson 28 Art & An�ques with Dr. Lori Treasure Hun�ng at Thri� Stores

Photo by Nick Mele

34 NIC ROLDAN More Than A Polo Player

50 HIS & HERS Joe Dotoli

Equine Health

42 Dr. Jill New Technology in Equine Sports Medicine

44 Forma Hoof New Online Academy 46 Broodmare Nutri�on 48 Chiroprac�c Care For the Breeding Horse

Training, Tack & Showing

52 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST With Pre-Purchase Exams

54 SAVING A TREASURE Persano Horses

60 Western Dressage Keep Progressing

30 AIKEN, South Carolina

62 YOGA for Riders

72 TRAILERS Maintenance 101

68 POLO Looking Back and Moving Forward

76 TACK BOX Your source for services & great retail ﬁnds!

70 KATS Corner

ELITE

Ranked 7 out of 15 WORLDWIDE Equine Magazines To Watch

EQUESTRIAN

According To Feedspot blog

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

Published since 2008 Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. Ralph Waldo Emerson

For Media Kit including Print & Social Media Packages email: info@EliteEquestrian.us View current and all previous issues on our web site: www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com info@EliteEquestrian.us Main Oﬃce, Ocala, Florida: 352-304-8938 PUBLISHER Bill Vander Brink Bill@EliteEquestrian.us EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief� Noelle Vander Brink Creative Editor� RSD Media Group, Raymond S. Di Maria Art & Antiques Editor� Dr. Lori Verderame Equine Art Editor� Jeanne Chisholm Fashion Editor� LA Sokolowski Legal Editor� Avery S. Chapman,Esquire CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marty Adams, PhD, PAS Alessandra Deerinck Kat Fuqua Lynn Palm Jack Roth Tom Scheve Donna Washington GRAPHICS Fran Sherman

On the cover... CURO Diagnosticsnon-invasive technique to measure muscle function. See story in centerfold.

ADVERTISING Advertising Sales, N.E.Region: Kathy Dress 610-420-9964 kdress@ptd.net Advertising Sales, S.E. Region Karen Eagle 352-812-1142 Advertising Sales, National: Diane Holt 713-408-8114 diane@eliteequestrian.us CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Judy Beaulieu Carol Engan Borelli Nick Mele Kortney Kinkaid/ Harlequin Photography Shelly Marshall Schmidt Enrique Urdaneta

ELITE

EQUESTRIAN

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

CURO- Diagnostics “Revealing the Unseen”

NIC ROLDAN Peek Inside His Life SPRING Fashion Volume 21 Issue 2 Complimentary

AIKEN, SC Highlight

TRAILER SAVING A TREASURE Maintenance Persano Breed www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

The true danger is when liberty is nibbled away for expedients and by parts. - Edmund Burke, April 3, 1777

Copyright © 2020 Elite Equestrian is a registered trademark owned by Elite Equestrian LLC. No article, photo, or part of this publication may be reproduced wholly or in part without written permission of the publisher. Management reserves the right to approve or refuse any advertiser or contribution for any reason. EE does not endorse any product or advertiser and is not responsible for accuracy of info/opinions provided by advertisers or article content. Photographs are submitted by writers of each article who assume responsibility for usage approval.

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

MUST

HAVES

FOR YOU

1. Espoir shirts are a UV Resistant South African designed and produced garment made from hand illustrated prints. Exclusive at Aiken Saddlery. www.aikensaddlery.com See our ad on page 33 2. Dressage Horse Key Fobs ... and more, exclusively at TempiDesignStudio.com See our ad page 77 3. Aubrion Cannon Insulated Vest. www.ShiresEquestrian.com See our ad page 47

4. Horsehair jewelry- keep a piece of your favorite horse with you always. www.ponylocks.com See our ad page 21

5. Find a huge selec�on of quality collars, leashes and more! Shown- American Tradi�ons, Pheasants, AuburnDirect.com See our ad page 21

6. Lay-Flat Hose QuickReel, allows safe and constant rate of hose deployment. Mounts to a cart, vehicle, or ATV trailer. BigSprinkler.com See our ad page 33

7. Pasture vacuums collect manure, sawdust, wood shavings, leave, rubbish in wet or dry condi�ons, Suck water out of troughs www.pasturevacuums.com See our ad on page 57

FOR

YOUR FARM 6.

8. Pyranha® Wipe N’ Spray® BOV -world famous oil-based & lanolin ﬂy spray now in a BOV, a 360 degree con�nuous spray, no harmful propellants, a 99% emptying rate and is 100% recyclable. www.pyranhainc.com See our ad pg 7 9. Beau�ful and aﬀordable customized farm signs. Website guides you through a unique step by step process. Free shipping! 1-800-640-8180 www.EZSignsOnline.com See our ad on page 49

10. 9.

10. Best On-The-Go Hay Feeding System!

The safest and most durable hay bag. Reduces risk of ulcers & vices, 25 diﬀerent styles and sizes. www.NibbleNet.com See our ad page 49

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FOR

YOUR HORSE

1. Saddler’s TLC removes dirt & grime from leather’s pores, replaces natural oils in one, fast, easy step. www.jmsaddler.com See our ad page 57

2. Protec�ng sensi�ve skin from flies and harmful direct sunlight. Silver Whinnys® by Sox For Horses, Inc. Socks made specifically for equine legs. See our ad on page 45 www.soxforhorses.com 3. Mul�-Purpost An�sep�c. Use on wounds, skin and hooves. Treats rain rot too! Spurr’s Big Fix, made in the USA, Money back guarantee. www.spurrsbigfix.com 4. WELLESLEY KNEE – PATCH BREECH & COOLBLAST 100 SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT Visit DoverSaddlery.com See our ad page 33

5. Old Dominion Saddlery offers high quality, affordable French used saddles. Free shipping and a 7 day trial period. www.OldDominionSaddlery.com See their ad on page 73 6. Equine Nebulizer $500 under retail! Everything needed to get started with your vet’s recommenda�ons! Many awesome finds at our consignment store! www.GoodAppleEquine.com See our ad page 76

7. The right micronutrients- Source has withstood the test of �me because IT WORKS! www.4source.com 800 232-2365 See our ad page 47

10.

8. Hand Cra�ed Herbal Supplements Immunall-Muscle and Joint- Ty-4-Up 916-203-1821 immunall-us.com See our ad page 69 10. Every unique modular WOW saddle is made to order, to ﬁt both horse and rider perfectly, and can be adjusted in many ways so it is truly a saddle for life. Contact leaann@wowsaddlesusa.com or 904 591 0540. See our ad on page www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

9. Super Supplements 877-357 - 7187 www.ThePerfectHorse.net See our ad page 45

EE 17

pring

FASHION

A touch of flower power for spring!!!

EQUETECH BOTANICAL MESH HAT COVER Technical mesh vented hat silk with unique botanical pa�ern to side panels. Other features include a flexible peak with a rose gold faux leather underside and rose gold badge to back. Designed to fit over skull cap riding helmets. One size fits all. RRP: £14.95

EQUINE Fashion

EQUETECH BOTANICAL RIDING TIGHTS Technical 4-way stretch construc�on allows be�er movement in every direc�on. Features exclusive botanical rose pa�ern down outer leg panels, adding a fashion element to these prac�cal riding �ghts. Features ergonomic ﬂat-lock seams to deliver a comfortable, chafe-free ﬁt. Designed with a wide comfort pull-on waistband with excellent shape reten�on. Other features include a ma� silicone FULL SEAT, Equetech logo to back, secure inner waistband �e and two thigh pockets (large enough for a smartphone). Perfect for endurance, le trec, training and leisure ac�vi�es. RRP: £54.95 sizes: XS - XXL

COORDINATING SOCKS TO FINISH YOUR LOOK Perfect sock when wearing long boots. These amazing socks have a so� co�on foot and a thin nylon leg, ideal when you need that extra space! Features a strong hand sewn toe link and added Lycra® for stretch and shape reten�on. Sold in packs of three. Black/ Navy/ Grey (pack of 3) - Mixed Navy/ Red/ White (pack of 3) - Patriot Black, Rose, Blush (pack of 3) - Botanical RRP: £14.50 www.equetech.com

EE www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

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BLING

The Silver Stable 9ct Handmade Gold T-bar Clasp Sterling Silver Bracelet Make a statement with this gorgeous equestrian bracelet. Choose from a mini horseshoe or s�rrup in either sterling silver or contras�ng 9ct solid gold. Prices start from RRP: £215 Bracelet shown starts from: RRP: £245 Handmade Bri�sh jewelry design made from a passion.

for

Spring The Silver Stable’s collection of equestrian-inspired, British handmade jewelry will have you falling in love with this beautiful new brand for eternity.

EQUINE Fashion

Sterling Silver Maxi Cuﬀ Bangle with 9ct Gold Charm This chunky sterling silver cuﬀ bangle makes for a perfect gi� or why not treat yourself? Not only does it come with a choice of charms but it also has the op�on to add your own personalisa�on. Add ini�als of a loved one to make this bangle extra special! Handmade in Britain using fully sustainable materials. Prices start: RRP: £155

Saddle Up Take this gorgeous classic, handcra�ed sterling silver s�rrup ring for a ride. Robust enough to be worn at the yard, yet s�ll beau�fully elegant for life away from the horses. Handmade in Britain using fully sustainable materials. Sterling Silver S�rrup Ring RRP: £35

Personalised Please Make this handcra�ed sterling silver torque bangle your own by choosing from a choice of sterling silver or solid gold charms and also the op�on to add a personalised disc. They make the perfect unique gi� for someone special or why not treat yourself and add the ini�als of your loved ones. Prices start from RRP: £100

All items come ‘gi� ready’ in a luxury gi� box and bag.

www.thesilverstable.co.uk

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is the perfect combination of classy color and whimsey Exceptionally EQUESTRIAN Here to add personality to your spring outﬁts!

Making women look and feel beautiful works of wearable art

My passion for our oceans and their sea-life is my inspira�on and the premise of my artwork. The Floral Seas collec�on is derived from a series of artworks I completed years ago. Since then, I have transformed them into elegant, wearable tex�les. The ﬂowers represent the fragility, beauty, and vulnerability of our ecosystem. I personally believe that as an ar�st, it is my responsibility to incorporate a social issue so that I can simultaneously express myself and raise awareness for a deeper cause. The crea�on of my scarves has been a way for me to further educate myself as well as a way to make personal discoveries about myself as an ar�st.

EQUINE Lifestyle

The scarves are environmentally friendly; they are Oeko tex cer�fied and printed in an eco-conscious mill by fine Italian ar�sans. It is pivotal that I give a percentage of sales to non-profit organiza�ons that preserve and support ocean life. The Dog Mo�f neckerchiefs are a newer design of mine, where I combined my love for whimsical illustra�ons and animals. They amount to a combina�on of photo-illustra�on and tradi�onal art and make a fantas�c addi�on to any wardrobe. I also donate a percentage of the sales to non-profit animal shelters in order to give back to my community. https://difiorenewyork.com/ https://www.instagram.com/difioreny/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreadifiorenyc 917-345-3379 Follow us on facebook.com/EliteEquestrian/ and Instagram: EliteEquestrianMagazine Read any issue on our web site for free at www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com Please tell our adver�sers you saw them in Elite Equestrian magazine! Ask about featuring your product in Excep�onally Equestrian at info@EliteEquestrian.us

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Equestrian Boutique

Visit our store at the World Equestrian Center, Arena 3

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Our Sponsored Rider, Aaron Vale

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It’s always the right time to pamper yourself. Here are some great ﬁnds for fabulous home entertaining, and for looking great when you’re stepping out on the town.

Exceptionally EQUESTRIAN Tempting Tables

BLINGY Bangles Angie’s Tables is a company that curates and designs beau�ful and aﬀordable tablescapes that arrive in a sleek keep sake box.

You don’t have to be an equestrian or horse lover to rock these jewels. Karina Brez, a former Miss USA contestant, knows what a woman loves... diamonds! Her custom and unique designs are sure to turn heads!

EQUINE Lifestyle

For all the busy households out there we have you covered because at Angie’s Tables these items are not only yours to keep, but you are ready in minutes and they are extremely aﬀordable. Now you can focus on your food op�ons and your a�re. These Tablescapes are all under $129.99 for a place se�ng of 4. In your order you will receive a tablecloth, a table runner, four placemats or chargers, four napkins and 4 napkin rings, two candle holders (pillar, taper or vo�ves) and two candles to support the candleholders. Angie’s Tables goal is to help you build your very own Tablescape collec�on for your home. Owner, Mrs. Kantor put great thought into her designs so that you can mix and match them and not have to feel stuck with the same color pale�es or color schemes. Angie’s Tables also includes a TO DO Card that comes with your Tablescape just in case se�ng your table does overwhelm you or make you anxious.

www.angiestables.com

Medium huggable hooves® bracelet (rose gold, yellow gold, white gold) with pave diamonds.

Karina Brez Jewelry (@karinabrezjewelry)

Follow us on facebook.com/EliteEquestrian/ and Instagram: EliteEquestrianMagazine Read any issue on our web site for free at www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com Please tell our adver�sers you saw them in Elite Equestrian magazine! Ask about featuring your product in Excep�onally Equestrian at info@EliteEquestrian.us 24

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Claudia Peterson Pin Sculptor

U. S. Flag. Paper Stars. 29 7/8” x 39 3/8”

Black Scottie. Paper Scotties. 30” X 40”

“

Multicolor Hummingbird. Paper Butterﬂies. 20” x 30” I was born in Bogota, Colombia and led an exceedingly unusual and unique international life.

As a child I was surrounded by the highest quality museum paintings in our family homes. I was particularly inspired by my Mother’s outstanding 17th, 18th and 19th Sporting Art Collections when riding dressage in Bogota, Gloucestershire, Paris and Madrid. Much to my surprise, having worked in a multiple of professions, I was smitten, not bitten by the art bug. After experimenting with various mediums, I developed an obsession with paper… different forms of paper: molded, scolded, folded (preponderance of paper). One year ago, after experimenting with traditional forms of art made with paper, I was delighted and bemused to discover I had a passion for creating these sculptures, a relatively obscure and rare art form. Judging by the reaction of my collectors and sales, I must say that paper aficionados are jumping through circles and hoops of joy. I welcome commissions for the realization of your art filled dreams and futuristic fantasies.

“

EQUINE Art

Kentucky Realtor® and Broker specializing in Equestrian Propery. Several farms available in L’Esprit with 25 miles of private community trails.

Claudia Peterson 502-758-4048 email: CherylSabin@msn.com www.CherylSabin.com

PinSculptures@gmail.com

Wellington Place 13532 Fountain View Boulevard Wellington FL 33414, USA 845-505-1147 • 561-557-3747 www.ChisholmGallery.com 26

RE/MAX REAL ESTATE CENTER

Cheryl Sabin Broker, GRI, ABR, ePRO, CPRES Equestrian Property Specialist

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ART

ANTIQUES By Dr. Lori

DR. LORI’S TIPS FOR TREASURE HUNTING AT THE THRIFT STORE B� �r. Lori �er�era�e

Many people are sticking to their budgets or supplementing their income by shopping at and selling wares from Thrift Stores like Good Will, Care & Share Thrift Stores, The Salvation Army and others. On my Real Bargains videos on www.youtube.com/drloriv channel, I feature real life stories of thrift store finds and I share insider information about how to identify all types of fine and decorative art, antiques, furniture, lamps, clocks, and collectibles. What’s more, I show you how to put a true value on thrift store finds for buyers and sellers. Buying thrift online or in person has become the first stop for savvy shoppers.

Glidden pottery in mid-century modern pink feature 1950s organic forms and make a pretty group of functional and eye-catching bathroom catch-all.

�hoto �re�it� ��hotogra�h� Sta� o� www.�rLori�.�o��

EQUINE Lifestyle

What you’ll need for your own Thrift Store Treasure Hunt: �� — �� 28

If you are keeping Thrift Store Finds for yourself: �� U��—��–��— �� z�� G��%� �� Dr. Lori Verderame is the award-winning Ph.D. antiques appraiser on History channel’s #1 show, The Curse of Oak Island, about the world’s oldest treasure hunt. For more information, visit www.DrLoriV.com and www.YouTube.com/DrLoriV

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Aiken, South Carolina A Charming, Equestrian Destination The scenic, sleepy town of Aiken, South Carolina has charmed visitors and lured new residents with its beauty and love of horses since it was founded in 1835.

EQUINE Lifestyle

By Jack Roth, Carolina Real Estate Company www.jackroth.biz or www.carolinacompany.com Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt and Judy Beaulieu

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Continued...

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Nic Roldan

… So much more than just a polo player! Wri�en By Donna Washington Photos By Nick Mele and Enrique Urdaneta

Nic Roldan may be the top US polo player and has captained the USA team on mul�ple occasions. The poorly educated may easily hang stereotypical labels on him but take a moment and you’ll realise that there is so much more to this force of nature, who’s ambi�ons have no bounds.

EQUINE Lifestyle

Spend a day with Roldan and you will be taken on a rollercoaster in every sense, few manage to muster the levels of energy as him and his team 24/7/365, where variety seems to be the fuel that energises them. Days start with an intense gym session followed by the traditional Argentine maté with his grooms in the morning and an adrenaline fuelled practice before jumping in the car and into Palm Beach for a socialites business lunch yet before you know it life whisks him back to Wellington, another bunch of horses to ride, conference calls and a dinner with a sponsor. From sat on an upturned bucket one moment to being sat at the head of the table at the opening of one of Palm Beaches most desired gastronomic institutes the next. First and foremost Nic Roldan is a polo player of incredible calibre, his passion for the sport knows no bounds and no where is he happier than being pushed to raise his game

even further and lead the teams he plays on to victory. With more titles still to be secured, a second US Open victory being a particular entry on the wish list, there are no signs of slowing down on that front. Now to the end of April, Nic is taking part in the World Polo League in Wellington, FL. At this time, no spectators are allowed but games can be followed on ChukkerTV.com for free. As with any horse discipline, horses are a central part of his sport and the mission to always be improving his string is an on going one and has seen many of his mounts originating from the racetrack. Recently the Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Incentive Program paired with the USPA (United States Polo Association) and chose one of Nic’s OTTB Mares, “Cubana” as their High Goal Horse of the year. Nic loves highlighting this aspect and at the barn his affection for his horses is clear for all to see. For most in the sport that would be their lot, but not for Roldan. He’s acutely aware that all equestrian sports are a minority compared to sports such as Basketball, Soccer, Football and even Golf, and hence never misses an opportunity to collaborate with athletes from the other equestrian disciplines in order to promote the equestrian community as a whole. Likewise he’s dedicated to showing that this truly is a sport and focus on the athletic aspect, the training regime, the intense work outs and recovery.

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Above Left: Photos for Husk by Nick Mele Above center: Modern Luxory, Palm Beach by Nick Mele. Above right: WPL Palm Beach Open Final, Audi VS SD Farms by WPL. Right: OTTB Cubana by Enrique Urdaneta. Far Right: Bedford Park, Grand Prix Village Drive. www.enriqueurdanaeta.com

One of his talents off the horse is interior deign, having to date gutted, redesigned, furnished and dressed no less than 6 properties with tremendous success. Together with his mother their style is distinctive, contemporary and bold yet accessible and utterly beguiling. This is not a guy who sticks his name on as an afterthought but rather someone who is endlessly studying the listings, goes into a property with what seems like VR eyes being able to see a stunning layout whilst I for one only see dated tiles and a dreary room. From the ﬁnishes to the cushions, no detail slips him by and his approach to this is the same as it is to perfecting his penalty hitting. With plans in the works for further developments this is a branch of his company he is all to happy to share his infectious enthusiasm about.

After having spent several seasons in the UK playing, Nic really learnt to appreciate the variety of Gin and as such at the start of this year, High Goal Gin is launching, a company in which he is one of the three founding members. Worldly, but unmistakably American in its approach, High Goal Luxury Gin is a refreshing and modern take on a classic spirit. Utilising hints of citrus and mint in its unique blend of botanicals, High Goal is savoured by those who have had the pleasure of discovering it. Setting a new, ultra-premium standard for the market, High Goal is American gin reimagined.

www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

Continued... 35

Nic enjoying HIgh Goal Gin, his newly founded product.

Back to polo,

One of Nic’s recent design projects- Marbleston Court.

Another design successBlue Cypress Lane, Wellington, FL.

and Nic strives to work with a cornucopia of partners and sponsors, to create mutual beneﬁcial partnerships. As with anyone who is passionate about their subject matter, Nic is all to keen to share his sport to a wider audience. The day we spent with him for example he had been tasked with doing an instagram take over for one of his suppliers, just one of many activations he takes in his stride. When he can he offers companies the chance to do masterclasses or gives lessons. Thanks to the Grand Champions Polo Club Organisation he is a part of, players from out of town can ﬂy into Wellington and spend a week playing with Nic and his peers, only having to bring a hat and their boots.Everything else, including horses are provided for by them. Can you image being able to go and play Football with Tom Brady for a week or Golf with Rickie Fowler? That would be the equivalent.

Midhurst Primary School Stick Competition

Aside of all of this, somehow he is a dedicated philanthropist. After having spent sometime in a pediatric ward in Toronto he developed a real passion for helping kids with cancer and kids in general. He was profoundly affected by how these kids just wanted to do all the things regular kids would do, such as playing soccer, but that they could not through no fault of their own. With this Nic beats to his own drum and as this particular sector is what resonated with him that is the speciﬁc philanthropic area he is dedicated to, as well as mentoring kids. The equestrian world is full of characters, yet few seem to radiate the same level of energy as Nic, nor seem to be as ﬂexible as dealing with a cornucopia of different scenarios yet taking it all in a days work with true humility. Don’t be fooled thinking he is just a polo player, as with a stealth like determination it seems he is only getting started with the business aspect of this brand and we can’t wait to see where the journey takes him. In the mean time, I need a stiff cup of tea to come back down to earth from a high octane day. 36

Photos for Husk by Nick Mele

Find out more about Nic and all his ventures at the recently relaunched www.NicRoldan.com

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CURO�-�Diagnostics ��

The New CURO units weigh less than an ounce and are made of titanium for strength and durability CURO-Diagnostics' Revolutionary Design

real-time using Android and Apple platforms

The �nventor

.Photo by CURO-Diagnostics - Story by: Dr. Adrian Harrison PhD, Dr. Jillian Chavers DVM and RSD Media Group

Dr Adrian Harrison is an Associate Professor at Copenhagen University where he teaches physiology to both Animal Science and Veterinary students. Since getting his doctorate from Cambridge University he has worked with different aspects of skeletal muscles in a number of species, gradually becoming aware of the need for a simple, accurate and noninvasive technique to measure muscle function and activity in motion. The CURO system grew out of a study of oyster sounds in Portugal, that involved the construction of very sensitive underwater microphones, and research at The British Museum for a book chapter on the Etruscans. It struck Dr� Adrian Harrison in 2009 that if he could listen to oysters then it might be possible to listen to the sounds made by contracting skeletal muscles – acoustic myography. Adrian hand made the first units and tested them in Sweden with Dr Lars Roepstorff where it became apparent that they needed to be robust if they were to measure horses whilst physically active. In 2011 after 3 years of testing, Adrian founded CURO-Diagnostics and began to manufacture the first acoustic myography units. Since then they have been sold to horse and dog Veterinary clinics across the USA, UK and Europe. The word CURO means “I Care” and was chosen as a name for this technology by Adrian since it allows us to care for the way we train and rehabilitate our horses and dogs. It has not been possible before now to assess muscle function in a non-invasive and real-time manner and in such an accurate fashion as is capable using the CURO, so now at long last we can truly care for our animals. 40 40

The CURO App helps you select the most suitable muscle for your purpose

Talking CURO CURO-Diagnostics is a small company based just north of Copenhagen in Denmark. Indeed, the CURO is made and tested in Denmark, where it was first invented, and today CURO-Diagnostics owns the patent for this invention internationally. The CURO system uses very sensitive sensors to measure the pressure waves that skeletal muscles generate when they are active. This means that every time a horse uses a skeletal muscle to move a limb or to adjust its neck or back, small pressure waves are created as the muscles shorten and then relax again. It is precisely these pressure waves that are recorded by the special sensors that are placed on the hair and skin (no need to shave) above the muscle of interest. In this way every move made by a horse, whether it be walking, trotting, cantering or jumping can be measured and analyzed. Weighing only 10 ounces (300g), the ��unit is easily attached to either the saddle or a surcingle and then by wires to the virtually weightless sensors. The CURO generates its own WiFi signal, connecting to an iPad/Tablet or smart phone (Android & Apple) up to 80-100 meters away, so the muscle measurements can be viewed in real-time. This makes it possible to view your horse as it exercises and to follow the way in which it uses its muscles.

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”Revealing the the Unseen” Unseen” ”Revealing

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Photos by CURO-Diagnostics Photos by CURO-Diagnostics .

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Scientific �rounding Scientific �rounding

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Since the very start, the CURO has been rigorously tested for Since the very start, the CURO has been rigorously tested for its scientific relevance, repeatability and accuracy. The CURO its scientific relevance, repeatability and accuracy. The CURO ��K has been the centerpiece of numerous scientific studies, with ��K has been the centerpiece of numerous scientific studies, with 23 publications in peer reviewed scientific Journals and more 23 publications in peer reviewed scientific Journals and more �� 2�� due this year. The highlights of these studies include: ��2�� due this year. The highlights of these studies include: � Proof that acupuncture can improve how efficientl�y Proof that acupuncture can improve how efficientl�y � muscles work, thereby helping to reduce fatigue ESTi-Score muscles work, thereby helping to reduce fatigue ESTi-Score � Imbalance and postural asymmetries come from unequal� � Imbalance and postural asymmetries come from unequal� muscle activity and can be corrected with specialize�d The CURO measures the efficiency (E), ��active muscle activity and can be corrected with specialize�d The CURO measures the efficiency (E), ��active proprioceptive training fibers (S) and frequency�� (T) when a muscle proprioceptive training fibers (S) and frequency�� (T) when a muscle and monitor the health of the hind limb suspensory � Detect works. Combined, the ESTi-Score measures both sides of Detect and monitor the health of the hind limb suspensory � ligaments works. Combined, the ESTi-Score measures both sides of a horse simultaneously, and reveals asymmetries, balance ligaments horse simultaneously, and reveals asymmetries, balance � Proved that poorly fitting bridles affect muscle function in the aand much more about muscle performance, all in real-time. � Proved that poorly fitting bridles affect muscle function in the and much more about muscle performance, all in real-time. horse´s neck, and anatomically designed bridles improve horse´s neck, and anatomically designed bridles improve muscle function muscle function Continuing �rowth �rowth From the research lab to the shed row, the CURO makes it Continuing From the researchthe labfitness to the level shedof row, the horses CURO during makes it possible to monitor young possible to monitor the fitness level of young horses during training, diagnose imbalances and restricted movement from ill- Current research is aimed at developing new flexible Current research is aimed at developing new flexible training, diagnose imbalances and restricted movement fitting equipment or rider interactions, and track correctionsfrom in ill- sensors that are specific to certain anatomical regions, sensors that are specific to certain anatomical regions, fitting equipment or rider interactions, and track corrections in real-time. For a full list of publications and the CURO ESTisuch as the suspensory ligaments. such as the suspensory ligaments. real-time. For a full list of publications and the CURO ESTiScore please see: Score please see: This year will also see the launch of the new wireless unit, This year will also see the launch of the new wireless unit, reducing the weight ��0.5 ounces (15g) and making it �� reducing the weight ��0.5 ounces (15g) and making it even easier to use. The new app, available for Android �� https://curo-diagnostics.com/research/ even easier to use. The new app, available for Android and Apple platforms, features user friendly canine and https://curo-diagnostics.com/research/ and Apple platforms, features user friendly canine and equine software for veterinarians. Easy to understand equine software for veterinarians. Easy to understand graphics and interface, put rail side analysis at your graphics and interface, put rail side analysis at your fingertips. fingertips. ��

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�� Story and Photos Story and Photos By By Dr.�� Jill & RSD Media Group ��

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EQUINE Health

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50 42

Dr. Jill Costello Chavers, DVM, CERPV

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FormaHoof

Launches Online Training

ACADEMY

FormaHoof – the liquid-fit, reusable mold system that offers a highly effective and easy to apply solution to every hoof care challenge – has launched a new online training academy.

EQUINE Health

Created by FormaHoof’s team of equine experts, the FormaHoof Academy gives farriers, veterinarians and equine practitioners all the theoretical knowledge and practical insights needed to use FormaHoof to help their clients’ horses overcome a multitude of hoof related issues; from laminitis and white line disease to thin soles, collapsed heels or conformation, developmental and poor performance issues. FormaHoof CEO Alexander Papantoniou comments “2020 was a difficult year for many industries around the world. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic made face to face contact impossible in many situations and for an emerging technology such as FormaHoof, the challenge arose to develop a methodology that would allow for the rapid upskill of new applicators across the globe, in a consistent and sustainable fashion. We needed a system that allowed applicators to be able to complete training on their own terms and in their own time, taking into account the busy schedule of veterinarians and farriers and so we are delighted to launch the FormaHoof Academy.” Alexander continues “When we started the FormaHoof certified Applicator (FCA) program, we knew that combining it with the FormaHoof Academy certification would add an extra layer of security for owners purchasing a FormaHoof service, because they would have assurances that the applicator had completed a formal training that is properly assessed by experienced FormaHoof technical consultants.” The FormaHoof Academy has been filmed in real time on actual customer horses, to ensure that the experience is as authentic as possible. Covering the basics of a FormaHoof application from start to finish (including trimming techniques), the Academy also discusses best practices for treatment of common hoof problems with FormaHoof. Techniques for business development and customer acquisition are also addressed in the Academy program. Alexander comments “we understand that convincing a customer to try something as new as FormaHoof is not always an easy task. Throughout the program we share our experience on how Applicators can leverage the reduction in overall treatment time and costs in a clear and concise way, so that horse owners understand exactly the benefits of the service they are purchasing.” Access to the Academy is open to everyone with an interest in learning about the FormaHoof application process, but completion of the Academy assessment and full certification as a FCA requires submission and approval of 44

proof of professional business. All applicants should have fundamental hoof care skills as the FormaHoof Academy is geared toward the transference of FormaHoof best practices and not general farriery techniques. The fee for the FCA course is EUR 99 + VAT, which covers the costs of the core online training, the certiﬁcation process and the assessment. FomaHoof’s team of experts will continue to add modules to the e-learning environment in the future, many of which will be free of charge to Academy students. New specialist courses on topics such as White Line Disease and Foal Conformation abnormalities and treatments are also in development, to give graduates in-depth knowledge of these specialist areas and which will be available to purchase separately. The cost of purchasing a Starter Kit (or any initial quantity of molds) is not included in the Academy fee. However, upon successful registration to the course, participants shall receive a discount code for their ﬁrst purchase.

Go to www.formahoof.com today for more information and to sign up for the Academy and join the global FormaHoof movement towards healthier hooves for happier, sounder horses! And you can follow the latest FormaHoof news and developments on social media by following @FormaHoof on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.

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CRITICAL FACTORS for a Successful

BROODMARE

Nutrition Program By Marty Adams, PhD, PAS Cargill Technical Services Equine Nutri�onist

To manage a successful broodmare operation, there are many important areas that must be continually addressed. In this article, I outline three critical nutritional factors to help broodmare owners build a successful nutrition program.

1. Good Forage Quality Proper soil fer�lity will result in the highest yield and nutri�onal quality of pasture grasses for broodmares. Regular soil analysis and fer�lizer applica�on will ensure quality forage for grazing broodmares and growing horses.

EQUINE Health

Analysis of hay is essen�al to determine its acceptability for the broodmare diet. Providing quality hay that contains a minimum 10% crude protein, maximum 40% ADF (acid detergent ﬁber) and maximum 60% NDF (neutral detergent ﬁber)—on an as-fed basis—will ensure that broodmares can consume adequate amounts of diges�ble energy and maintain adequate body condi�on during breeding, pregnancy and lacta�on.

So what products are available? If feeding grass or mixed hay or pasture, Nutrena Topline Balance and ProElite Grass Advantage Diet Balancer are great op�ons. For horses fed exclusively alfalfa hay, ProElite Alfalfa Advantage Diet Balancer is recommend.

All of these products have a recommended feeding rate of two to three pounds per day for pregnant mares weighing 1,000 to 1,500 pounds. In the last three months of the horse’s pregnancy, fetal growth rate increases more rapidly, and the mare may need to be fed at a higher rate to keep the mare at a desired body condi�on score or healthy weight. 2. Proper Body Condition Score A body condi�on score (BCS) of five to six provides the The feeding rate at this �me is normally increased to 0.5% to broodmare with adequate fat stores necessary for an op�0.75% of horse’s body weight per day (five to 7.5 pounds/day mal concep�on rate. Mares that are too thin and enter the for a 1,000-lb horse). Feeds suitable for pregnant mares are breeding season with a BCS of less than five will have reduced Nutrena Mare & Foal, Legends Growth and ProElite Growth. reproduc�ve efficiency. A�er foaling, feeding rates may need to be increased to 1% to 1.5% of body weight daily depending on body condi�on of the mare. 3. Adequate Nutrient Intake Many �mes, there is adequate pasture or hay to maintain broodmares in proper body condi�on with supplementa�on Using these three cri�cal factors, horse owners can successof small amounts of grain or concentrate. However, forage is fully manage an effec�ve nutri�on program for broodmares deficient in major and trace minerals that are important for and to ensure a healthy outcome for foals. proper development of the growing fetus in the pregnant mare. To learn more, contact Cargill for a free nutri�onal consulta�on by an equine feed specialist. Via phone, call the ProElite The use of a diet balancer—especially during the first eight Horse Feed Helpline at 888-873-1988 or the Nutrena Feed months of the broodmare’s gesta�on period—provides a con- Helpline at 800-367-4894. Via email, send a message to proel centrated source of protein, vitamins and minerals and meets ite@proelitehorsefeed.com, legends@legendshorsefeed.com nutrient requirements with a low feeding rate. or nutrena@nutrenaworld.com.

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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Chiropractic Care

eproduction

and the Breeding Horse

By Dr. Bill Ormston and Dr. Amy Hayak

is a necessary part of continued existence of a species. (Dinosaurs quit reproducing for some reason). Your breeding mare and stallion are preprogrammed to reproduce. Essential to all processes of life is the nervous system, which perceives the environment and coordinates the cellular community’s biological response to impinging environmental stimuli. It is reasonable to consider that a system that is properly functioning to its potential may resist destructive forces more successfully and with less damage.

Owners need to realize that the chiroprac�c adjustments will not be trea�ng their horse’s symptoms of reproduc�ve ill health. Let me repeat. Chiroprac�c adjustments do not treat symptoms. The symptoms of reproduc�ve ill health are just telling you your horse has a spinal subluxa�on. This is a crucial dis�nc�on. Instead, chiroprac�c is intended to reduce nervous system interference along the spine of your animal. As func�on is restored, the symptoms you are seeing in your horse will likely lessen and health can return. It is not unusual for mares to become pregnant a�er they have received chiroprac�c care when before they were unable to se�le. It is not unusual for stallions to sire more foals following chiroprac�c care than before chiroprac�c care. The chiroprac�c adjustment allows the inborn power of your horse to rebuild, renew and recover. This is the reason correctly administrated chiroprac�c adjustments seem to treat so many symptoms, not just those in the musculoskeletal system. There is a growing body of evidence that chiroprac�c care can promote the ability of the body to communicate at a cellular level, allowing it to make changes in the way the animal reacts to previous experiences and adapt to internal and external stressors. Chiroprac�c care is health maintenance of the spinal column, discs, related nerves and bone geometry without drugs or surgery. This promotes an increased state of health regardless of the presen�ng problem or complaint. It involves the art and science of adjus�ng misaligned joints of the body, especially of the spine, thus reducing spinal nerve stress and therefore promo�ng health. One of the major premises of chiroprac�c philosophy is that normal nerve func�on is essen�al to good health. The spinal cord, which transmits nerve impulses between the brain, the organs and �ssues of the body, is supported and protected by the spinal column. Vertebral misalignments or subluxa�ons disturb normal nerve func�on. When nerve func�on is disturbed, dysfunc�on and disease may result. Communica�on between the brain (control center of the body) and organs and �ssues of the animal is improved. Your horse’s body is an amazing crea�on that can accomplish numerous miraculous tasks including crea�ng new life. These miraculous tasks are accomplished under the direc�on of the nervous system.

EQUINE Health

The reproduc�ve organs in any animal are not under conscious control but instead are directed by the autonomic nervous system (ANS) which is a branch of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS is ul�mately controlled by the central nervous system (CNS) which is made up of your brain & spinal cord. These are terms veterinarians commonly use to describe the nervous system.

Dr. Frank Painter, DC explains that peristal�c mo�on is a term that describes muscular func�on controlled by the autonomous nervous system. Peristalsis is the same phenomenon that occurs in your intes�nes to propel food through the diges�ve tract. The smooth muscle ac�vity that propels the mare’s egg through her uterus is controlled by the signals relayed between the CNS & the PNS. The egg develops in the ovary, then must be propelled via peristal�c mo�on down a li�le tube to the uterus. If it happens to be fer�lized but there is insuﬃcient peristal�c mo�on, it cannot be delivered to the

uterus in enough �me to become a foal. It is lost as it decomposes a�er too many days without nutri�on from the uterus. Recent research reinforces that the chiroprac�c approach to fer�lity is the same approach that has encouraged so many to adopt the chiroprac�c lifestyle: a safe and economical alterna�ve to tradi�onal medicine and a focus on whole body wellness. There appears to be a defini�ve agreement among all the research available on the topic of chiroprac�c and infer�lity. Current medical care for infer�lity is extremely expensive, involves poten�ally significant nega�ve side effects, and has not been proven to be more successful than chiroprac�c care for treatment of fer�lity. The chiroprac�c approach to fer�lity should be looked at in two separate and specific areas: 1) how the wellness approach of the chiroprac�c lifestyle directly affects total health and 2) more specifically the idea that the physical component is not the only factor in infer�lity. The nerves to the reproduc�ve system run through the spine, and if there is a problem with impulse conduc�on, it can affect fer�lity. Upon reduc�on of the vertebral subluxa�on research showed an improvement in spinal-neural func�on which appears to have an impact on the reproduc�ve system through various postulated mechanisms. Increased func�on of the autonomic nervous system appears to normalize the estrous cycle, causing regular ovula�on to occur and subsequently pregnancy rates to increase. For stallions, stamina is crucial. Covering a book of mares each year can be exhaus�ng. Maintaining spinal health for the stallion means op�mal muscle func�on for moun�ng, and op�mal sperm count through nourishment of the nerves that communicate with the tes�cles. Maintaining normal spinal movement is both a means of improving physical health and the health of the endocrine system that signals produc�on of sperm. Spinal movement is necessary for the proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Restric�ons of spinal movement alter the flow of central spinal fluid (CSF), nourishment for the brain, and may impact the hypothalamus and/or pituitary gland. These glands are responsible for the hormones of reproduc�on such as follicle-s�mula�ng hormone and lutenizing hormone, both vital to reproduc�ve func�on. A vertebral subluxa�on of the spine will have far reaching effects on numerous glands and organs that directly contribute to a healthy reproduc�ve system. AVCA cer�fied Equine Chiropractors specialize in loca�ng subluxa�ons & removing the nerve interference with specific adjustments which permit the body to heal & func�on like it was designed. Keeping the spine properly aligned, clearing the nervous system of excessive interference, and counseling pa�ents in nutri�on, exercise and changes to lifestyle, make the AVCA cer�fied equine chiropractor one of your best op�ons for an op�mal reproduc�ve system in mares and stallions.

Elite Equestrian does not endorse or conﬁrm content suggestions in any articles. See credit page for disclaimer.

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HIS

& HERS

Joe Dotoli: A Head for Safety with L.A. Sokolowski, the Original Equinista Once upon a time, our horse world avoided discussions about injuries. But after a string of debilitating tragedies among hunter/jumper riders eschewing safety helmets, Joe Dotoli of Chepachet, R.I., started a conversation that, with the ultimate passage of the Safety Helmet Rule, changed how we look at an uncomfortable reality. Due in part to his pioneering work on this initiative, Joe received the 2001 USEF Distinguished Service Award. In 2017, he accepted an USEF Lifetime Achievement Award, underscoring five decades as a professional rider, trainer, judge and show manager, and his legacy for developing talent really is written (“Wylde Ride – A Horseman’s Story”) in Olympic Gold through student, Peter Wylde. But Joe’s not done yet, as Zoom sessions about safety helmets and vests proved during the USHJA Annual Meeting. Equestrian helmet research, funded by USHJA, USEF, USEA and Jacqueline Mars, joins football, soccer, cycling and ice hockey helmets being studied by the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab. Given our odds (one emergency visit for every 600 rides, and one in five riders expected to suffer a serious injury in their lifetime), this is a conversation that needs to be continued… HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS:�� HIS: ��

EQUINE Lifestyle

HERS:�� HIS:�� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� 50

HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: �� HERS: �� HIS: ��

Learn more about the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings and how to support the Helmet Lab and research eﬀorts at https://helmet.beam.vt.edu. Have a guest suggestion for AHP Media Award winner L.A. Sokolowski? Share it to latheequinista@gmail.com.

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Conflicts of Interest

In Prepurchase Examinations Wri�en by Avery S. Chapman, Esq, 2021© Whether you are a prospective owner, trainer, agent or veterinarian, the prepurchase examination (“PPE”) process involves numerous and often competing interest of multiple parties, from the seller, seller’s agent, buyer, buyer’s agent, unknown business partners to the parties or agents, as well as the business and personal relationship of those parties and the veterinarians involved.

�� 2. Concerns for Agents During the �� PPE Process. �� 1. How Conflicts of Interest May Arise. ��

EQUINE Lifestyle

��

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aving

Treasure THE PERSANO, A ROYAL HORSE AND FERRARI EMBLEM By Alessandra Deerinck Photos courtesy of

EQUINE Lifestyle

Cars replaced horses as our way of transportation, but the elite Ferrari has the famous emblem with a rampant horse, a Persano, an Italian breed from the 1700s. Aside from this curious fact, the connection between human beings and horses has always been strong and universally apparent…opposite attracts. Horses do not change their surroundings; they adapt to survive anywhere they can find food, water and their kin. On the opposite side of the spectrum human beings tend to adapt everything to their own needs, and even modified the original equine species, purposefully created breeds that had genetic traits able to suit the needs and wants of human. (What if… we could learn from a horse how to live without destroying our planet!) Another remarkable fact about horses is that even after thousands of years spent in the domestic environment, they are still able to revert to their original natural way of living. This is a clear demonstration of the strength of the equine social behavior and genetics, which is a very important trait that human beings and horses have in common. Some equine breeds originally created for serving various human needs are still a great ﬁt nowadays as our partners in sports and pleasure. This can help us appreciate the original creators of the equine breeds and can also make us think about safeguarding the precious genetics of those breeds. When equine breeds can meet the needs of different cultures, they can actually be introduced successfully anywhere and often they are crossbred to improve other breeds, since they have desirable genetics. Going back to the Persano, the characteristics of the breed excel in beauty and mind. In terms of appearance (and most importantly of behavior) the Persano is exceptional: the conformation is of regal appearance, and the solid essential behavioral traits were originally developed for the cavalry and for hunting with falcons and white 54

weapons. The original qualities of endurance and agility of the Persano breed in more recent times gave us great jumpers, that have won gold medals at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome with the Italian riders, brothers Raimondo and Piero D’inzeo. Looking at the achievements and at the fact that the existing number of horses of this breed is small compared to most other breeds, this is a clear evidence of the value of their performance abilities and great genetics. Along with being great athletes another essential trait of the Persano horse, often taken for granted as an equine quality, is their disposition for relating to human beings. This behavioral trait makes the Persano horses easy to handle, even when we talk about breeding stallions. Every equine breed that was successful in its purpose and was kept pure is a treasure in terms of genetics. In my professional life, I work with Mangalarga Marchador horses, a breed that has been kept pure throughout time. Originally developed in Brazil for the purpose of traveling comfortably on horseback across difﬁcult mountain terrain, these horses are suitable for many different equestrian disciplines and also have a strong disposition for relating to human beings.

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▲Querone, 1993 grey sired by S.Siro with a saddle from.XVIII in front of the Royal Palace in Persano. ◄ Tabacco, 1996 grey sired by S.Siro

Seonio, 1995 bay sired by Jerax ridden by Alduino di Ventimiglia holding a falcon during a demo of the Accademia Italiana Cavalieri d’Alto Volo

The Persano has been saved from extinction several times and at the moment Prince Alduino di Ventimiglia di Monteforte Lascaris, who, after a thirty years quest, has succeeded in masterfully recreating the pure breed through horses that he carefully selected and acquired. The Prince has ridden Persano horses in competition as a young rider, and has reconnected with the breed while serving in the military, time in which he also began his quest to preserve the breed. In addition to having saved the breed from extinction, Alduino di Ventimiglia is dedicated to training falcons for hunting, and founded the Italian Academy of High Flight Falconry (Accademia Italiana Cavaiieri di Alto Volo). The Prince studied Agricultural Sciences thus giving him a solid bases in genetics, and his experimental thesis, “The Historical Evolution of the Razza Governativa di Persano” served as a reference point for several scientiﬁc researches in the years that followed. He wrote the excellent book “Persano, the Royal Breed”, and I had the privilege to connect with Alduino di Ventimiglia to ask him about the history of the Persano.

Jerax, 1987 bay sired by Pascià (born in Persano)foundation stallion, first pure breed stallion born in Luriano, from which the breed registry was originated.

Throughout its history, the noble breed was saved from eradication 5 times: • The Persano breed was founded by Charles of Bourbon in 1751 • in 1800 (Neapolitan Revolution), saved by Ferdinand IV of Bourbon • in 1816 saved by Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies • in 1874 saved by the Gaetani of Sermoneta and by Vittorio Emanuele II; • in 1900 reconstituted by the Government of the Kingdom of Italy • since 1981 saved by Alduino di Ventimiglia di Monteforte Lascaris.

The “Government Breed of Persano” was reassembled in 1900 in Persano, by Ministry Decree of the Kingdom of Italy. It originated from the even more ancient “Royal Breed of Persano”. The latter was the object of study and development since the year 1735 by Charles of Bourbon, enlightened ruler of two kingdoms: that of Naples and that of Sicily. However his birth was sanctioned only later, in 1751 in Persano, the place from which the breed took its name. Soon the breed assumed an international reputation and reached its peak between the years 1780-1825, when it was introduced by means of male breeding (stallions) into many European breeds very well known today. The experiPERSANO ments for the foundation of what will later be named the by Alduino di Ventimiglia di Monteforte Royal Breed of Persano were conducted in the Carditello estate, rented for this purpose by the Bourbon royal family The horses of the Breed of Persano have been part of a in 1740. In fact, the construction of a complex dedicated long period of turbulent and important Italian history. The exclusively to horses, with stables for 1500 horses, a racePersano horses participated in the creation of Italy, reptrack and a small royal palace was begun in Carditello. resenting in the equestrian ﬁeld, an excellence, a symbol and living expression of equestrian culture, history, style and The intention was to create a breeding farm and a state horse, and so it was done. In 1784 under the reign of FerItalian elegance. Their majestic gait recalls the horses with dinand IV, the Carditello estate was transformed in pursue which the emperors, entering Rome, celebrated their triumphs. With the harmony of their conformation, they recall of the excellence of the Royal Breed of Persano. Having to select mares and stallions according to their use for war, a the sculptural masterpieces of the classical Hellenic and Renaissance periods. The Persano horses were insurmount- racetrack was also built. The selection took place through functional tests on three very important parameters: manable protagonists of the impetuous charges of the Napoageability, mental balance (consistent behavior) and leonic cavalry and of the Russian World War II campaign. proﬁciency with hunting in various styles (white weapon In recent times the citizens of Persano got together and and falconry). The endurance, was tested with the 200 km founded the “Persano in the Heart” association, so as to route Carditello-Persano.-Carditello. The speed, with races keep alive the traditions and the great equestrian culture to be held in the racetrack incorporated into the large born in the region of Campania Felix. www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com

The two grey Uonio 2009 by Tritone e Visconte 2010 by Querone ridden by the lancieri of the Reg. Lancieri of Montebello, during an event in the parc at the Royal Palace in Carditello. The temple in n the background is the site from where the king used to watch the events and the horsesraces.

architectural structure. There were also some stands from which the public could watch the races and the tests for the skills of the horses. Furthermore, the complex of Carditello, not far from that of the Royal Palace of Caserta, lent itself to visits by foreign embassies and delegations. It was a place where the King could display the equestrian excellence, and thus show the possibilities and power of the Kingdom of Naples. In 1874 the Royal Breed of Persano was sold in Eboli at a public auction, by decree of Minister Ricotti. Realizing the great mistake committed, the Government, in 1900, reinstated the breed in the same Persano location, no longer calling it the Royal Breed of Persano, as it had been until 1874; rather more properly, the Government Breed of Persano. The breed had a new brand to stand out with. The State acquired the animals with which the breed was rebuilt from private subjects who had bought them in Eboli. This most important nucleus of the new breed was formed, accounting for 60% of the total animals making up the nucleus of the mares and 50% of that of the stallions. After the two world wars in which the horses of the Government Breed of Persano were protagonists, we arrive at 1981, the year in which, having ascertained little interest on the State’s part in maintaining that historical and genetic heritage strongly linked to an important biodiversity, a parallel nucleus of horses was taken from the Grosseto herd of the Government Breed of Persano. The careful choice of the subjects for this operation was determined by their degree of “purity” with respect to the breed they belong to that is, horses with high biological ▲Portrait of Ferdinando value, carriers of genetic patrimony not yet polluted by IV of Naples riding a crosses made with Thoroghbred horses. In fact, already after 1972 when the herd was transferred from Persano to stallion of the Persano Royal Breed, The painting Grosseto, the only authorized breedings were those with is located in Spain at the Thoroghbreds or with Anglo-Arabs of dubious origin, and Granja Museum never with stallions of the breed they belong to. Many of the mares transferred in those years to Luriano (a location not far from Grosseto where the rescue of the breed was ►Piero D’Inzeo riding carried out) were selected among those born in Persano Pagoro (Razza Governativa and not yet the result with Thoroghbred crosses. In Gros- di Persano) at the Olympics seto, at the CMARQ (Centro Militare di Allevamento e in Helsinki (Eventing) Rifornimento Quadrupedi) there were no stallions of the breed, except for the explorer Picciotto (which, however, did not have the status of stallion). The only stallion

Continued...

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Piero and Raimondo D’Inzeo

The image on the book cover is of Seonio 1995 stallion by Jerax

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The herd of Government breed of Persano in Sicily on the Nebrodi mountains in 2007. In the front of the herd is Rirona, 1994 by Picciotto with foal Sirone da Irone.

The breed herd in Paestum (Persano )in 2016 during a breed demo. Seonio ridden by Alduino di Ventimiglia during a demo of the Accademia Italiana Cavalieri d’Alto Volo

recognized at the time ws Persano born Pascià which was given on loan to the then Stallion Depot of Catania. Returning after a service carried out at the Military Authority, which in the meantime had been transferred to Grosseto, I was able to take him to Luriano. I later did this with Picciotto, which ofﬁcially became a stallion at the age of 30, thanks to the timely intervention of Gen. Francesco Ortu. Francesco Ortu who had in 1972 signed the authorization for the transfer of horses from Persano to Grosseto, realized the mistake made, and tried to reinstate Government Breed of Persano in the period of his last Command at the CMARQ of Grosseto. He favored breeding within the pure breed and recalled, when genetically valid, the mares from the various military entities to which they had been transferred. However, after him, the breed once again returned to a state of neglect; had it not been for the nucleus of stallions and mares saved in Luriano in 2003, it would not have been possible to proceed with the recognition of the breed by Europe and with the establishment of the Breed Registry (Stud Book). Today, Italy and its rulers are presented with a great historical, cultural, touristic, political and economic opportunity: to recreate a unique and international attraction in which to make history. This opportunity includes equestrian art shows, through combining an original architectural structure with the original horses for which the Carditello complex was built.

Four year old Zizio ( born in 2011) during a breed demo in Paestum.

Morphological characteristics:

Biometric data: Coat: (in order) Gray, Bay, Chestnut, Black. Height: males cm. 155-165, females 152-162 cm tolerance + - 1-2 cm Cannon: males “cm. 21-22, females “cm. 19-21. Head: slightly elongated. Proﬁle: slightly concave in the middle third and convex in the nose. Eye: very large. Neck: well set, pyramidal. Withers: developed. Aplomb: regular. Croup: slightly sloping. Shoulders: sloping. Tendons: well detached. Foot: regular, strong hoof. Temperament: alert. Quality: Endurance and Courage. A�tude: saddle.

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Western Dressage: Keep Progressing PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING ™ Building a Partnership with Your Horse By Lynn Palm

There are so many training “methods” out there today, it sure can confuse most riders. My advice to you is to “put your common sense cap on.” Western Dressage is new and many clinicians are all about the subject so they can keep their business alive, or use it as way to bring in new income. I worry about some clinicians, as most don’t have any credentials showing horses, judging horses, or college degrees. So, how do you get the right training and lessons to keep progressing in Western Dressage? I suggest that you ﬁnd someone who has positive past credentials and has had experience showing horses that they have trained. Also, ﬁnd an instructor who has a passion for the horse and teaching riders. Don’t choose someone who teaches without a subject to the lesson and can’t explain “why” they are teaching you something. You have to be able to understand and recite back to the instructor what you got out of the lesson and why they taught you want they did.

TRAINING & Showing

A good instructor should always: 1. Teach with a clear voice and never shout or insult a rider. 2. Teach with a passion for the horse and always try to bring out the willingness in the horse by the rider ‘riding well.’ 3. Be on time! 4. Never be talking on the cell phone while working with students or giving a lesson. 5. Have a lesson plan and explain the lesson at the beginning: what they are going to teach and why. 6. Have a summary at the end and ask the riders questions about what they learned. 7. Never do a lesson that is more advanced for riders so they fail at the lesson. 8. Never do the same lesson and use the same language over and over each lesson. 9. Have the arena ready with good footing for the horses and set with cones, jumps, obstacles or simply set for the lesson plan. 10. Speak loud and clear enough so riders can hear them After your lessons, it is up to you to be an independent student. You have do your homework. You must plan to practice, continue to learn through books or DVDs and follow the Dressage progression. Only read books or watch videos from top trainers who teach dressage principles and follow classical dressage, even if you ride western. 60

Dressage Principles are sound, logical, and proven training techniques that are universal and have been successfully practiced for centuries. No matter what breed of horse you ride, his level of knowledge, your level of skills or what saddle you ride in, you have to progress with your riding and the development of your horse properly. Set goals and discuss them with your instructor. Between lessons you have to take your education in your own hands. You can achieve this by reading good books on training and becoming completely familiar with the dressage tests at your horse’s level. Dressage tests are written with the systematic training of the horse in mind and are a great tool for anyone looking for practice, whether or not you actually show. Knowing your tests at your horse’s current level and the one above gives you a logical guideline for mapping out your schooling sessions. They help you achieve your goals because they are designed to move you up the levels systematically so you encounter the least possible amount of resistance from your horse. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey! We have all had times where we feel that we aren’t making progress. At some point, we will reach plateaus and get stuck, making us feel discouraged for all our hard work and practice.

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lot of riders get frustrated because they are at a plateau and they think they are not getting better. Trust me: at the plateaus you are still making progress while you are practicing! So rather then get discouraged, enjoy the plateaus. They are normal and a part of the journey to getting better with the sport. Only through practice and repetition during your plateau can you get to the next step. Check out our books to help you practice and work your way through the levels. Have fun building yourself into the best student you can be for you and your horse. Don’t ever forget to video yourself riding as well.

Cullenstone Farm Send your horse to enjoy our spring grass! Now accepting new boarders for April 2021

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Also, we would love to have you come ride with us. We love to share our dressage backgrounds and knowledge with you. You can join us at our Ocala, Florida, farm or at one of our Ride Well Clinics on our USA Tour at a location near you. If you would like to train with Lynn & Cyril at home with Western Dressage, take advantage of the following supportive training materials:

www.lynnpalm.com

BOOKS: ♦ Head To Toe Horsemanship ♦ Western Dressage— A Guide to Take You to Your First Show ♦ A Rider Guide to Real Collection

♦ “Dressage Principles for the Western Horse & Rider” Volume 1 Parts 1-5 ♦ “Dressage Principles for the Western & English Horse & Rider” Volume 2, Parts 1-3 ♦ “Let Your Horse Be Your Teacher” Parts 1&2

DVDs: For more information about Lynn Palm; her educational programs at Palm Equestrian Academy in Ocala, Florida; Lynn’s Ride Well clinics across the U.S.; saddles; DVDs; books; and trail and Western dressage competitions; visit www.lynnpalm.com or call 352-629-3310.

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OGA Yfor Riders Get hooked. It’s good for you and your horse!

• Improved balance and focus • be�er reac�on �me • increased range of mo�on • more strength • greater ﬂexibility and fewer injuries • boosted immune system Yes, please! Yoga postures can help with all these—and more.

All yoga postures have value, whether you ride horses or not. However, some have more benefits for equestrians. Try this exercise on the mat—your groundwork—and another in the saddle. The word asana in yoga means posture, posi�on or pose and is one of the eight limbs of yoga. It is the one that most people are familiar with and o�en associate with yoga. The term asana is applied to any type of yoga posi�on, whether seated, reclining, standing, inverted, twis�ng, or balancing. For example, in a tradi�onal yoga class se�ng, you may hear words like tadasana, which means Mountain Pose, or vriksasana, meaning Tree Pose. Each posture name incorporates the word asana. However, in my book I use the common names only for each posture for easier understanding. There are uncountable numbers of yoga postures, along with varia�ons on many of them. For my book I have chosen a selec�on of postures that I feel work and represent each body area. Being a

horseback rider and talking with many equestrians, I chose postures that I feel are helpful to the muscles that riders use most: areas that usually feel �ghter, or that cause riders issues or discomfort. These are basic, but very effec�ve and beneficial postures. If you are new to yoga, it might be best to learn the basics, which you may actually find to be enough. However, should you feel inclined to expand your knowledge, there are many online sources, and be�er yet, many good instructors out there. There is no end game to doing yoga—I have been doing these and other postures for 30-plus years and never �re of them. Each �me, and especially as I age, I find that I encounter my body in a new way, gree�ng it with what’s present that day.

On the Mat A

WARRIOR II Strengthens legs, specifically the quadriceps (thigh muscles), and increases balance and focus. Warrior II is similar to the Low Lunge Pose shown elsewhere in the book, but offers the added benefit of deeper strengthening and balancing, and you may find it a bit more challenging. It’s important to keep your bent knee aligned over your ankle, not over your toes. This posi�on supports and protects the knee joint. (If you have knee issues or feel pain during this pose you may want to omit this posture.) How to Do Warrior II 1) Stand with feet wide (Fig. A). Turn one foot out to the side, and bring your arms into a T-posi�on at shoulder height with your palms facing downward. Be sure both arms are even (Fig. B). 2) Bend the knee on the same side as the foot that’s turned out, going into a lunge posi�on (Figs C and D). As you lunge forward, keep your shoulders over your hips (you are not moving your upper body), glancing down to be sure the knee is in the correct posi�on. The depth of your lunge depends on your body type and flexibility (Fig. E). 3) Fix your gaze out over your finger�ps. Deep breathing is essen�al in Warrior to take in oxygen; it gives you energy to hold the pose longer. See if you can hold the posi�on for about five breaths—you may be able to work up to longer as you get stronger.

TRAINING & Showing

Photo credits: Photos A-D- Carol Engan Borelli Photo E- Kortney Kinkaid/ Harlequin Photography

Continued... 62

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On Horseback WARRIOR ARMS These arm posi�ons help with body alignment and awareness, balance, ﬁnding and moving from your physical center, learning to move from your core and working arm and upper back muscles. How to Do T Pose into Warrior Arms On the yoga mat, Warrior Pose is done while standing; when on horseback, we only do the arm por�on of the posture from a seated posi�on. This helps with rider alignment and learning where your body is in space and �me.

A While si�ng on your horse and looking straight ahead, inhale your arms to a T posi�on. Take a look (or have a friend look) and conﬁrm both arms are at shoulder height, with palms facing downward. You can remain here while taking a few full breaths, feeling the muscles. that are working to hold you in place. Incorporate a twist to further the stretch and gaze out over your back hand’s outstretched ﬁnger�ps. Con�nue to keep the arms at shoulder height while in the twist (Figs A and B).

C Photo credits: Carol Engan Borelli

TRAINING & Showing

If you’d like to go yet another step further, bring your arms into Reverse Warrior posi�on, opening the heart toward the sky and stretching the back and the front of your body. To do this, turn your front palm in the direc�on of your face and raise that arm above you. Gaze upward toward your ﬁnger�ps, placing your back hand on your horse’s rump for support and to help you lean deeper into the posture, enhancing the stretch. Breathe a few slow, full breaths, then repeat the posi�ons on the other side (Fig C).

An excerpt from Yoga for Riders: Principles and Posture to Improve Your Horsemanship by Cathy Woods (cathywoodsyoga.com) and published by Trafalgar Square Books / HorseandRiderBooks.com. Visit h�ps://www.horseandriderbooks.com/product/YOFORI.html

EE 64

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Berkley Training Center

Berkley Training Center is situated on 167 rolling acres, with a total of 60 stalls in 3 separate block barns, 2 with indoor jogging areas. Situated on the easterly side of the farm is a remarkable 5/8th training track with a sand surface second to none. Additionally, the farm features a 6 horse eurocizer, breaking pen, numerous paddocks, and an onsite manager’s home. One of only a handful of private training centers located in Northeastern Maryland, Berkley is 1 hour to Delaware Park, Laurel, Pimlico, Fair Hill and Penn National, with easy access to I-95.

A. John Price Patterson Price Real Estate 5 E. Green Street, Middletown DE 19709

302-379-6318 – cell 1-800-909-FARM 302-378-1979 - office

www.pattersonprice.com 66

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Northview Farm

Magnificent Pennsylvania horse farm. Comprised of 168+/- acres with 5 beautiful block barns, totaling 83 stalls. The farm boasts a state-of-the-art stallion barn with breeding shed, foaling barns, miles of fencing and paved roadways, as well as managerial offices and a circa 1800’s brick home. An outstanding opportunity to purchase a turn-key Pennsylvania horse farm which lends itself to any number of equine disciplines. 20 minutes north of Fair Hill Training Center and the Fair Hill 5* International.

A. John Price Patterson Price Real Estate 5 E. Green Street, Middletown DE 19709

302-379-6318 – cell 1-800-909-FARM 302-378-1979 - office

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The The Ocala Ocala Polo Polo Club Club

Looking Back and Moving Forward

EQUINE Lifestyle

In the midst of raging 2020, a bright spot amongst the dumpster fire was the revitaliza�on of the Ocala Polo Club in Ocala, Fl! Bringing back the Sport of Kings and Sunday Polo to the Horse Capital of the World has been a joyous experience! The Ocala Polo Club, while a vibrant and active club in the past, had been dormant for more than a decade when Team Resolute, the polo management company owned by David Eldredge and Lauren Proctor-Brown DVM, decided to breathe new life into it. Since then, Ocala Polo is well on its way to becoming a Sunday tradition in Ocala. Looking back and moving forward, the Ocala Polo Club created three perpetual trophies to be awarded at annual tournaments every season. The first of these is the Julie Braswell Cup, which recognizes a longtime Ocala polo player and exceptional horsewoman who was a huge supporter of polo in Ocala. This was quickly followed by the Laneway Cup, which recognizes one of the original polo families who played with the Ocala Polo Club in years past. The Horseman’s Cup recognizes the history of Ocala and the horsemen who built it into the Horse Capital of the World. We look forward to hosting these events annually to recognize our past as we move into the future of polo in Ocala. Tailgating at Sunday Polo is a fabulous, family-friendly activity on a Sunday Afternoon in sunny central Florida. On any given Sunday, our spectators enjoy easy access to polo as they drive up fieldside and tailgate right from their vehicles. With match themes every week, there’s always an opportunity to represent your school pride or wear your favorite Sunday hat! Elite Equestrian sponsored fantastic tailgate prizes for our “Feathers, Fedora’s and Friends” match, and the spectators loved it! Well-behaved dogs are always welcome and take centerstage at our Polo for Pooches day! With the growing equestrian population in Ocala, our polo school has been introducing polo to new riders from a variety of equestrian disciplines. The polo school runs arena and outdoor practice two to three times weekly and provides private lessons to teach riders the strokes and rules of the game. Polo is accessible to riders of all ages and experience levels who wish to expand their equestrian horizons. Looking to the future, we hope to form the first Ocala Interscholastic Polo Team and compete in the US Polo Association Interscholastic Tournaments. Our polo school members currently enjoy our monthly Saturday evening, Polo Under the Lights, Arena League matches. Here they don their first set of whites and compete in front of a raucous Saturday night crowd. It’s all smiles and good fun! 68

Wri�en By Dr. Lauren Proctor-Brown Photos By Elite Equestrian Magazine

One of the biggest changes to the Ocala Polo Club since its founding has been the influx of women to the sport of polo. Traditionally few women were lucky enough to play earlier than 1930, but women started taking to the polo field in the late 1960s. The first Women’s Intercollegiate Polo Championship was held in 1976. Since then, David Eldredge brought home 14 Women’s Championships while coaching for Cornell University. Today women represent 40% of the USPA membership and are a force to be reckoned with on and off the polo field. In 2014, acknowledging that men and women compete differently, the USPA developed a separate women’s rating system to further the growth of Women’s Polo. The Ocala Polo Club believes strongly in supporting Women’s Polo and has developed the Ocala Polo Women’s League, which hosts matches monthly. The Women’s League has grown to be a tight group of women supporting women to excel in the sport. As such, what started as one low goal match has blossomed into back-to-back low and medium goal women’s matches. Polo is a unique sport that allows women to compete on the same stage as men, both professionally and as amateurs. Horses give us all the power to do things we might not be able to do on our own. Another major change in the Ocala Polo Club has been the influx of members traveling from across the country to play in Ocala. Previously the membership consisted of mainly local players, some of which went on to have success professionally in other venues, but Ocala never blossomed for professional polo in the same way as South Florida. With the influx of equestrians to Ocala and the growth of the economy, it is now seen as a great destination and is attracting polo players from across the country. These players come from a wide variety of clubs, but all have a strong love for the sport and the future that the revitalized Ocala Polo Club offers. Whether you have never seen polo before or playing for several years, the Ocala Polo Club has something to offer you. From a Sunday tailgate, to your first lesson, to tournaments, you can find everything you are looking for. We look forward to playing in sunny central Florida for many years to come and invite you to come see what all the fuss is about!

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KORNER

Kat Fuqua

KAT’S

• 2020 USEF Horse of the Year Grand Champion Junior Hunter, Consent • 2020 USEF Horse of the Year Reserve Grand Champion Junior Hunter, Grand Remo • 2020 USEF Horse of the Year Champion Small Junior Hunter <15, Consent • 2020 USEF Horse of the Year Champion Large Junior Hunter <15, Grand Remo • 2020 National Horse Show Grand Junior Champion, Large JR Champion <15 & Small JR Champion <15 • 2020 National Dressage Championships awarded KAT 3rd in the country with her DreamGirl for FEI Children’s Dressage. • 202O Earned USDF Dressage Bronze medal and successfully showed FEI Prix St Georges. • 2018-19 Four times USEF Pony Finals Champion, including Pony Medal • 2018 Washington International Horse Show Large Pony Hunter Champion • 2018 Five times USEF Horse of the Year awards

1. 1. Who is your all-time favorite horse of yours? – Sadie Berkout

My favorite horse is RS Levita�on (aka) Je�. He was my ﬁrst 3’6 junior hunter when I was ten years old. He has always been very special to me and he took me around my ﬁrst Devon, Junior Hunter Finals, and Indoors. Photo by Sara Hellner

2. Which Pony Finals win was the most meaningful? – @fivestridesvideoagraphy Pony Finals 2018 was the most meaningful. It was so thrilling to me since it was my ﬁrst �me being Champion in the Large ponies at the USEF Pony Finals. The ﬁrst day made me nervous because I won both the model and under-saddle. The next day when I won the over-fences, it felt like a huge relief. My pony Brighton will always hold that forever memory and love in my heart. Photo by Sara Hellner

3. Do you think everyone should get a safety vest? - Claire Friedlander

I think that you never know what is going to happen when riding a live animal. So yes a safety vest could prevent a lot of unexpected problems. I got my “Free Jump Vest” in October last year. It has actually made me very conﬁdent. I feel safer while jumping especially in the Low Junior Jumpers, which is a new division for me. Photo on Grand Remo, 2020 USEF Horse of the Year <15 and USEF Horse of the Year Reserve Grand JR Hunter. Photo by Elegant Equus

4. Who was your first pony? - @eq.juliaaa

My ﬁrst pony was named Bu�ercup and she came with her new-born son Nu�er bu�er. My mom got Bu�ercup for me for my One- year- old birthday party and she walked me around in hand on her. I grew up with Bu�er and Nu�er and they both taught me how to handle a horse and how to ride. Sadly, Bu�ercup passed at age 22. Nu�er is s�ll at my barn outside Atlanta. I enjoy in hand jumping and going on walks with him!

5. Will you go pro?- @fivestridesvideoagraphy Yes, I’m pre�y sure I will go professional. I think I will do the hunters and deﬁnetly get more into the dressage.

6. Favorite Class in School? – Maddie Burke My favorite class has been French for the past four years. Although lately, I have been enjoying World history and Life Science but French is s�ll number one for me! 70

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TRAILER MAINTENANCE 101 Wri�en And Photos By Tom Scheve Ignoring horse trailer maintenance is a mistake you are likely to regret, so don’t take a chance at getting stuck somewhere when you can prevent it. Unlike your tow vehicle (engine, fuel injection, computer chips, etc.), a horse trailer is basically a box on wheels, so some of the service you can do yourself. However, wheel bearings, brakes, and electrical maintenance are best left to a professional.

Running a test of the electric brake system ensures that each wheel’s brake engages when power initiates. Between services, you can check the electric brake system by doing either of the following:

BEARINGS: You don’t have to know the intricacies of how wheel bearings work. Just be aware that bearings need grease for the wheels to spin freely. Servicing the bearings regularly (called “packing”) prevents the grease from drying out, keeps the bearings from failing, and ensures the wheels spin correctly. A knowledgeable service person will know if the bearings need replacing, how much grease to add, and how to adjust the play in the wheel. If the trailer is under normal use, have the bearings serviced once a year.

TRAINING & Showing

TIP: Nev-R-Lube axles have encased bearings that do not need lubing, but you should have them inspected for adjustment and deterioration. EasyLube axles provide a ﬁtting for a grease gun located on the wheel hub to insert grease easily into the bearings. Still, it should be done by someone knowledgeable; too much grease can blow a seal. TIP: If a hubcap loosens or falls away while driving and it happens more than once, it may indicate that the bearings or brakes are heating up and need servicing. Hubcaps are plastic and have plastic attachments that lock onto the wheel lugs. When they get hot, they soften and lose their grip on the bolts. BRAKES: Adjusting the brakes is often overlooked. When making an appointment for service, request a brake inspection to include a brake adjustment. Standard axle brakes, which many horse trailers still have, require a manual adjustment after the ﬁrst two hundred miles on a new trailer. After that, adjust again at approximately two thousand miles. Forward Self-Adjusting brakes, often standard on later model trailers, have a mechanism that automatically adjusts the brake shoes during every forward stop. However, it is still prudent to have them inspected for wear. 72

• Drive one of the wheels onto a TrailerAid jack to lift the adjacent wheel off the ground. Then spin the wheel and have an assistant apply the brake control or brake pedal in the tow vehicle. If it locks up, the trailer brakes are working for that wheel. Do the same with the other three. Or... • Drive your rig slowly, preferably on gravel, and apply the brakes while an assistant watches the wheels. If all the wheels grab, they are working. If they do not, take it to a service specialist. ELECTRICAL: Wiring is tricky, even for professionals. Only six to seven wires operate all the electric functions throughout your trailer. Still, electrical shorts, broken wires, failed lights, and fans are often hard to isolate and ﬁx. Make sure the person doing the work has a wiring diagram for your trailer. TAIL & LICENSE PLATE

HOT - INTERIOR LIGHTS

GREEN

BLACK

STOP & RIGHT TURN

BROWN

STOP & LEFT TURN

GREE

ELECTRIC BRAKES BLUE

RED

GROUND

WHITE AUXILIARY

YELLOW

Determine if a fuse box is in your trailer; not all trailers have them. Look for it in the dressing/tack room or inside the front of the trailer. Fuses for each wire make it easier to track down a problem since all electrical wires travel from the trailer plug to fuses before heading to their destination in the trailer. Wiring is another job best performed by a professional. However, here are a few common problems that are often solvable without professional help.

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• If all the interior lights are not working, check the “hot” wire on the tow vehicle. One “hot” wire (always on) provides the power to all the interior lights. Since most boat and travel trailers do not require an auxiliary “hot” wire, tow vehicles do not always install it with their camper package. If some lights are working and some not, it’s probably the light itself. • If your trailer has a remote switch for the interior lights, make sure it’s in the on position. Then make sure the switches at the lights are on. Do the same with fans.

TIP: If you changed the tow vehicle and the interior lights don’t work but they did previously, the tow vehicle is the problem. If possible, check if the interior lights work with the previous tow vehicle. TIRES: Check the tires for uneven wear, deep stress fractures, and age. Fill the tires to the max PSI (pounds per square inch). If the tires are not over six years old but have some surface stress fractures, they are still safe. After six years, replace them.

TIP: To check if the trailer/ coupler connection on a tag-along or gooseneck, attach the trailer coupler to the ball. Using the jack, raise the trailer. If the tow vehicle begins to lift without disengaging from the trailer, it’s good to go.

Before taking it in for service, here are a few things to put on the list, or you do yourself. • Ensure interior dividers, doors and vents operate correctly. • Lubricate door locks, hinges, and windows if they do not slide easily. • Check for wasp nests and other insects that might have made a home in the stall area. • Check the coupler, make sure it will secure to ball.

You have probably noticed that full-service horse trailer dealerships are few and far between, so where do you take it? RV trailer service centers, medium-size body shops, automotive service facilities, tire stores, and fabrications centers can likely do the work. Body shops can also ﬁx body damage done to the trailer if needed. If uncertain where to take it, ask your fellow horse owners for recommendations.

TRAINING & Showing

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