Elite Equestrian magazine Jan Feb 16 issue by Elite Equestrian LLC

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Volume 16 Issue 1 Complimentary

Fashion Trends With Heroes & Horses

Special

BREEDING

Issue

• Breeding Contracts • Cooled VS Frozen Semen

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS Great Places To Explore On Horseback!

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Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

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Fashion Trends

Travel Destinations

Royal Horses

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18 20 22 33 34 54 38 40 36

�� Must Have Home & Fashion Trotting Around Town Show Ring Essentials Noble Outﬁtters™ Equitech Winter Solutions Age of Fashion His & Hers: John Blackbury Dr. Lori: Traverler’s Buying Tips Equus Film Festival A Sunday Horse Chisholm Gallery: Eye Gee Designs

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Cooled VS Frozen Semen Breeding Contracts COPD in Horses Touchless Sprays Living Healthy

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�� Amelia Island Dude Ranchers Utah’s Canyon Country ACTHA Destination Rides www.EliteEquestrian.us

72 74 76 78 80 82 84

Must Haves For Your Horse Saddle Fit Q & A Training with Treats Arabian Reining WEF GDF Palm Partnership Pratice Tips

�� 86 Ariana Rockefellar Horsemanship 88 Jacksonville Equestrian Center 90 Equestrian Aid Foundation 97 Pin Oak Charity Show

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EElitequestrian� Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

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ntroducing

www.EliteEquestrian.us info@EliteEquestrian.us �� Editor in Chief: Noelle Vander Brink Publisher: Bill Vander Brink Advertising Director, Western Region: Steve Neuman Ph: 303-646-3005 Cell: 303-877-0686 eliteequestrian7@aol.com Advertising Sales, N.E.Region: Kathy Dress 610-420-9964 kdress@ptd.net Advertising Sales, S.E.Region: 352-233-9559 Editor at Large: Rebecca Larkin Art & Antiques Editor: Dr. Lori Verderame Equine Art Editor: Jeanne Chisholm Health Editor: Marilyn Miller-Heath Fashion Editor: LA Pomeroy Legal Editor: Avery S., Chapman,Esquire Saddle Specialist Editor: Jochen Schleese Social Media: Vanessa Ashton Photography: Steven Edward

NEXT ISSUE: March/April 2016 Deadline: February 12, 2016 Editorial Deadline: February 1, 2016 Polo Health: Vaccinations Fashion: Spring Highlights

Contributing Writers Alessandra Deerinck Natalie Di Berardinis Dr. Amy Hayek Alek Majtenyi Dr. Bill Ormston Lynn Palm Contributing Photographers: Corporate Exposures LLC Diana De Rosa Gene Phillips Photography

Rebecca Larkin Elite Equestrian would like to proudly announce that Rebecca Larkin is our new Editor at large.

EElitequestrian

Celebrating The Equestrian Lifestyle

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Fashion Trends With Heroes & Horses

Special

BREEDING

Issue

• Breeding Contracts • Cooled VS Frozen Semen

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS Great Places To Explore On Horseback!

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On the cover... Rebecca Larkin

BONUS DISTRIBUTION MARCH/APRIL: HITS Ocala, Gulf Coast Winter Classic (Gulfport & Pensacola), The Jockey Club, Furusiyya Nations Cup, Ocala FL Pin Oak Charity Show

For Media Kit email: info@EliteEquestrian.us

Elite Equestrian is a registered trademark owned by Elite Equestrian LLC. No article, photo, or part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent. 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 information provided by advertisers or article content. Photographs are submitted by writers of each article who assume responsibility for usage approval. ©2015

Rebecca an international model, FEI rider, USDF Gold Medalist, show jumper and equestrian investment specialist will bring much excitement and adventure to our publication with her quick wit, eloquence and writing style. Traveling the world and providing readers with authentic and culturally enticing experiences. Rebecca trains abroad in Ireland and Spain. These trips fuel her interest in touring the various equestrian worlds. Primarily a Dressage and Show jump rider at home, Rebecca rides a variety of breeds and all types of riding styles around the world. Needless to say, we are extremely excited to have her. Please join me in welcoming Rebecca to the exceptional staff here at Elite Equestrian Magazine! For more information about Rebecca please visit her site OpulenciaEquestrian.com or TheGlobeGalloper.com.

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Whoa Factor MUST HAVES 1

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Marilyn Boots leather equestrian boots in black colour with punched and patent leather, completely created for the woman with an elegant design and with personalized details and a variety of fashion colors. See our ad pg 4 www.FRANCOTUCCI.com

INTENSEEQ Gift with Purchase Free Gift with Purchase pairs a 16 oz IntenseEQ with a handy 2oz size IntenseEQ, one bottle for the barn and one for you too. INTENSEEQ The first premium cross action line of products for Manes, Tails and People Too! Natural Botanical Oils and Extracts are precisely blended into the perfect shampoo and LEAVE-In conditioning Combing Cream. Proudly made in the USA using Cold Process manufacturing for a smaller environmental foot print and the equine market’s first Paraben Free product line, making things safer for the environment and people too. Always at your Favorite Tack and Feed Store and select Hair Salons. “Because We Love Them Too! “, A portion of the proceeds from sales of INTENSEEQ to benefit equine shelter and rescue organizations. Visit IntenseEQ.com to learn more.See our ad pg 69

Time for Toggles! Sterling silver cable chain measures 18” and comes with many different charms. Perfectly priced at $225. Select your favorite at janeheart.com and Shop by Category for Pendants. Go to www.janeheart.com and Shop by Category for Earrings. 1-888-703-0503 See our ad page 30

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Keep all your small items together with the Snafﬂe Bit Cosmetic Bag! Leather trim, lined and zipper pull - 9” Brass YKK zipper. 9 1/2” W x 6 1/2” H. $34.95 Combine the Snafﬂe Bit Cosmetic Bag with the Tote Verden. This tote is great for the barn, travel, shopping, and more. It is roomy, but very lightweight and strong. You can really load it up! Fits riding boots, helmet, etc. 16” W x 19” H x 5” D, 8” strap drop. Made in USA. $69.95 Check out the complete travel set from ZIKY. www.ZIKYboutique.com See our ad pg 33

SHIRTS WITH STYLE! With their quintessential British heritage and passion for equestrianism, the Freddie Parker men’s shirt collection combines a Savile Row approach to tailoring and contemporary styling, with a nod to the countryside. This beautiful long sleeve striped shirt is styled in 100% poplin striped cotton and features a classic cut and some gorgeous design details. Proudly displaying the Freddie Parker signature embroidered motif on the chest, the Freddie Parker Epsom Shirt lining of the retro short button down collar, placket and inside of the cuffs also feature the Freddie Parker graphic print. A gorgeous shirt for this season which looks great whatever your occasion and with the new women’s collection also available: his and her equals super stylish! Sizes S -XXL. Available in Dark Blue, Light Blue and Lilac Freddie Parker Epsom Shirt RRP: £79.00 www.freddieparker.com

Dansko Professional Clog for Women in Blue Ombre Patent The Dansko Professional Clog for Women in Blue Ombre Patent is new for Spring 2016! The Stapled Clog Collection features a breathable open-cell PU foam footbed for temperature control, PU inner frame reduces torque, a protective TPU heel counter allows the heel to move up and down freely while providing lateral stability, a natural leather socklining for long-wearing, breathable comfort, and a PU outsole with a rocker bottom to propel movement. Available in sizes 35-43. See our ad pg 28

Ovation Olympia Boot Designed with the most discerning equestrian in mind, the Ovation Olympia is a luxurious and fashionable boot at a reasonable price. It features beautiful, super soft leather upper, a reﬁned square toe cap, elegant zipper protector and Dry-Tex™ lining to keep you cool and comfortable while looking your absolute best. Available in Black and Dark Brown. MSRP $ 229.95 www.englishridingsupply.com See our ad pg 23

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Warmblood Piaffe Hook ready to hold your Halter, Bridle or Lead. Retails $45 or ask about our quantity discounts. Cast in 1 piece in Brass or Bronzes, this beauty is one in the Piaffe Series. From Buckles to Buttons, Jewelry and Accessories, this design is sought after, and we deliver Check out our online store for a grand selection of original art, all handcrafted in the USA. TempiDesignstudio.com Custom work is our specialty, your Photo or Logo. www.TempiDesignStudio.com See our ad pg 30

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2016

Show Ring Essentials from Noble Outﬁtters ��

The reviews are in! Amateurs and professional riders agree that the Noble Outfitters™ Spring 2016 Apparel Collection is unbeatable! Whether it’s your first show or just your first show of the year, you will love the new and updated products from the company that is leading the equestrian industry in innovation, function, and design. In the show ring, a traditional look isn’t simply a recommendation; it’s an absolute necessity. But, why sacrifice comfort and trendy style to get the winning look you want? That is why all Noble Outfitters™ apparel is designed to exceed the performance needs of the equestrian athlete with a winning combination of high performance, traditional style, and fashionfriendly colors. EE 22

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No matter which ring you are riding in, you will want to be wearing the new Noble Outﬁtters™ Signature Breech. Featuring superior fabrics and innovative construction, these tights are traditional in look but technical in function. The moisture-wicking Opti-Dry Technology keeps you cool by pulling moisture away from your skin and the ultra-soft Toray Ultrasuede® knee patches gives a more secure feeling while in the saddle even when your horse has a little extra spring in his step.

age your freedom of movement and inspire your style while maintaining exceptional function under pressure.

The four-way stretch material gives you a superior fit with a freedom of movement that will have you going back to the store for a second pair! The flattering Euro Seat design and flat seam construction reduces chaffing while the lightweight stretch hem on the lower leg reduces bulk inside your boots and prevents painful rubbing. Even the small tastful details like the extra belt loop on the left hip with signature stripe add to the smooth, professional appearance of these pants. Every feature of the Signature Breech is designed to emphasize comfort, quality, and versatility for an exceptional value.

That ideal was the inspiration for the Noble Outﬁtters™ Madison Show Shirt. This lovely shirt has the time honored look of a traditional show shirt but it is designed with all the bells and whistles of a technical shirt. The Opti-Dry Technology wicks moisture away from your skin. The four-way stretch woven body fabric and two breathable mesh areas under the arm and at the back keep you calm, cool, and collected under pressure in the show ring.

The only decision more difﬁcult than picking the perfect pants for the 2016 show season is selecting a stunning show shirt to accommpany them. A great show shirt will encour-

An angled snap collar lies nicely to conceal the colorful print on the interior that also matches the cuffs. Stitch and button details give this piece a custom-made feel and an

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outstanding value. For added protection against the sun, the material has a UPF of 50+. This spring, Noble Outfitters added three fantastic new color options: White/Horseshoes, White/ Vivacious & Coral Gingham, and White/Lush Poppy & Jade Print. The Madison Show Shirt will outperform your expecta tions in and out of the ring. For a less conventional look with cutting edge design features, you have to check out the Noble Outfitters™ Ashley Performance Shirt. This shirt keeps you cool and protected from the sun’s harmful rays with UPF 50+ rated fabric. It is ultra-breathable with a stretch mesh back panel and power mesh under the arms to keep you comfortable without impeding your movement. The moisture-wicking Opti-Dry Technology keeps you even cooler by pulling moisture away from your skin. From princess seam side panels for a slimming fit, to flat seams to reduce chaffing, you will enjoy every minute in this athletic shirt. A dropped back hem and reverse coil YKK zipper on the front placket provides ad-

ditional coverage and stays tucked in your breeches. The reflective logo details add subtle touches to this sporty top. The white version features a stock tie loop at the back of the neck. This season Powder Blue/Confetti Print and Navy join the Ashley Performance Shirt’s colors which include White, Ice, Periwinkle, Lemon Fizz/Tropical Palm Print and Vivacious/Tropical Palm Print. The Ashley Performance Shirt has all the features you love and fun colors you simply can’t resist! Now it’s time to add those essential details to your new 2016 show look! Ride into the ring with the Noble Outfitters™ Show Ready™ Leather Glove, confident in your ability to handle any situation that might arise. This remarkable glove is a classic leather glove with innovative performance features that promote durability, breathability, grip, and thinness. Stretch mesh panels across the knuckles and a keystone cut thumb gives this glove amazing fit, flexibility, and ventilation. The durable leather is double stitched at critical seams and reinforced in the forefinger, thumb, and pinky, to provide extra protection and durability for handling the reins. The large tab closure allows you to adjust to a custom fit and sits in just the right place on the back of the hand to keep full wrist movement. Comfort and performance shouldn’t stop with your hands. At horse shows, you spend a lot of time on your feet. Pamper yourself with the popular Noble Outfitters™ Over The Calf Peddies™! These outstanding riding socks now come in Indigo Feather, Blue Emoji Fun, Tickled Multicolor Feather, Paisley Horse, Wild Horse and Crystal Blue Horseshoe. However, it won’t just be your friend’s that say wow; your feet will love the ankle shield protection, padded foot bed, and Opti-Dry technology. Each of these new prints coordinates perfectly with the entire 2016 Noble Outfitters’ Spring Collection. Performance gloves and socks are essential tools for the show ring but a great show look is not complete without the perfect finishing touch — the quintessential belt. Beautifully crafted and carefully designed, the Noble Outfitters™ On The Bit Belt adds a fashionable touch of equestrian to any look. Designed by authentic English Saddler, Claire Painter, this belt has beautifully inlaid snaffle bits accented with traditional padded leather. The On the Bit Belt is the ideal finishing touch for any equestrian show outfit. From head to toe, you will look incredible and feel unbeatable in apparel and accessories made for the specific needs of equestrians. The Noble Outfitters™ new spring show apparel seamlessly blends timeless style, elegant tailoring, and performance features to bring you fabulous apparel that lasts season after season. These are just a few of the new spring products that Noble Outfitters has to offer. From accessories to performance apparel, see the entire spring collection at www.nobleoutfitters.com or your local tack store.

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Latest Fashion Trends

for this year’s Winter Circuit One thing is for certain when shopping for new equestrian fashion for this year’s Winter Circuit - the clothes are GORGEOUS! Soothing teal and rich berry and plum colors are not only layered on top with coordinating vests, jackets and shirts, but are also used in the most colorful and vibrant breeches the sport has seen in years. Silver metallic accents and crystal elements add a luxurious touch to hats and scarves and bling-covered jackets and helmets rule the runways and the show rings. Traditional fox huntstyle clothing is always in style for equestrians, but this year’s fashions includ more plaid than ever!

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Distances in the show ring become “Crystal” clear!

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clogkingdom.com

Every Dansko style, every color Free Shipping 1-888-633-7463 �� 28

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Dazzle

the Competition!

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 Accessories add a personal touch ��

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 Winter Circuit friends are forever!

Fox Hunt Fashion never goes out of style!

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Plum Crazy for Horses!

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“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man”. Winston Churchill made this quote famous, but Mindy Nolan-Morrow, Executive Director and founder of Horses-nHeroes, knows first-hand how true these words are for her students. Founded by Nolan-Morrow in 1994, this 501(c) 3 provides life-changing experiences for girls coming from families who would otherwise not be able to afford the sport. All girls in the program are not only able to ride and show horses, but also gain life-improving skills like responsibility, team work and commitment. All these qualities help to positively change the lives of the girls forever. The Horses-n-Heroes program focuses on all aspects of horsemanship. Riding is certainly a component, but total horse care, including feeding, grooming and barn chores are also taught to give the girls a complete picture to understand the time and commitment required for correct horse and farm care. Along with these skills, students are also given opportunities to show at horse shows; for the upcoming winter season, Edge Brewing

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(which donates all profits to equinebased charities, stemming from the equestrian component), has generously teamed up with Horses-n-Heroes to allow showing to become a reality. The girls plan to compete at the upcoming Ocala HITS winter circuit in December.

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Continued...

The true reward for running this incredible, but overwhelming organization is what the girls gain from the experiences, says Nolan-Morrow. Girls like fifteen year-old Kaycee, thirteen year-old Joy and ten year old Morgann each hope, one day, to be a veterinarian. Ten year-old Shiloe is another student who loves riding horses and wants to go to college so she can start her own professional riding and equine business. Other girls, like eight year-old Aubrey and thirteen year-old Isabella, each hope to be either a riding instructor or a jockey one day. Nolan-Morrow was careful to mention that 90% of the girls coming out of this program go onto college so this program teaches critical skills needed to help participants with the ability to achieve those goals.

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Recently, the students had an opportunity to do a fashion shoot, featuring winter and equestrian clothes (courtesy of Tack Shack of Ocala) that helped them to prepare for the upcoming shows. Other generous sponsors, such as Palm Chevrolet (who donated $2000 toward riding boots), One K Helmets (riding helmets) and others further helped to make the day be an incredible experience that the girls will never forget. Nolan-Morrow stressed that it was, “a day of playing dress-up” for girls coming from homes that are not in an economic position to have such outfits. Horses-n-Heroes needs continual support to allow for the improvement and enrichment of all participants’ in the program. The generosity of Edge Brewing (and others) will need to be continually supplemented, so donors can either contact Mindy

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via horsesnheroes.org, or by calling the farm: 352-629-5280, or her cell: 561-441-6275. Twenty-five horses keep the thirtyfive students riding, but more horse donations will certainly only improve the program, making horse donations another great way to provide assistance. Nolan-Morrow stressed that all donations made for the program go fully towards the horses and program only. This December, please go out to HITS and support the girls show off not only their talents and skills, but also that they are having the time of their life. Don’t be afraid to offer financial support as well, as it will enable Mindy Nolan-Morrow and the horses to help improve the lives of the girls forever. EE

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inter Warmth In Style

Beat those winter chills in the saddle with these great suggestions from the Equetech Winter Collection…

The Equetech Riding Hat Thermal Liner is an extremely warm and useful liner for riders who have to face the elements this winter! Fits snuggly under your riding helmet to protect your ears, neck, chest and back from the bitter wind and cold. Colours: Black, Navy RRP: £16.95 The Equetech Cozy Zip Top is a technical pro-stretch knitted zip top with a brushed plush soft lining. Practical for all equestrian / country activities, this garment helps to wick moisture away from the body, keeping you warm and dry all day long. Other features include cover stitching to all seams, 1/4 zip at the neck, Equetech 3D logo to front chest, a rolled top collar design and scooped back hem. Machine washable. Sizes: XS –XL RRP: £41.95 Colours: Black, Navy, Mélange Grey Equetech – Preparing for winter with style!

www.equetech.com

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In an age

when many women take their political freedoms for granted, they would do well to recall that for nearly a thousand years their ancestors enjoyed neither political nor equestrian equality. An unwritten law stated that only a woman as masculine as an Amazon, as heretical as Joan of Arc, would have dared to ride astride. Simply, it was something a “lady” would not do. Consider that early in the 20thcentury, it was not considered important for women to win at competitive sports and so clothes were not designed to give the movement that would allow them to excel. Thankfully this was about to change.

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Tucci photo shooting

Perfect ﬁt, craftmanship, meets technology Franco Tucci 

The horse symbolizes tradition, luxury and ultimately authority. �� www.EliteEquestrian.us

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Inez Milholland

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel riding astride, and Boy Capel,above. Gabrielle “Coco” in trousers, Etienne Balsan and Boy Capel, circa 1909, right.

In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different. - Coco Chanel

Clarissa Crotta, Top Swiss Show Jumper. Riding Boots: Tucci

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equine art featured artist

Irene Greenberg, Eye Gee Design Represented By

Ambling Along Silver & Beadwork Necklace

This one-of-a-kind, beaded necklace is made of amber, freshwater pearls, ﬁre polished Czech crystals, and Japanese square & ring shaped glass beads. The handmade silver bead caps show the imprint of many warmblood breed logos. The focal piece is a hand-painted, fused glass pendant featuring a relaxed rider ambling along. Dimensions: The pendant is 1.5” square. Overall length: 18” Price: $650

Pegasus Blue Glow Silver & Beadwork Necklace

This one-of-a-kind silver & beadwork necklace is made of labradorite, jet, and Czech ﬁre polished crystals. The handmade silver end-caps are deeply textured. The focal piece of the necklace is a large, Pegasus pendant modeled on a Greek coin. The reverse of the pendant is impressed with the pattern of a real feather. Handcrafted in .960 silver. Dimensions: Pendant: 1.25” diameter. Overall length: 21” Price: $650 Chisholm Ref. #:SBW-N7

Longchamps

Racing afﬁcianados will recognize this pendant as a tribute to Longchamp Racecourse, located on the banks of the Seine River in Paris. The high relief iinvites you to step into the scene, with the grandstands in the background and the horse and his groom in the foreground. The word “Longchamps” is visible on the lower part of the pendant, although it is hard to capture in photographs. Hand crafted in .960 silver. Dimensions: 1.125” diameter Price: $199 Chisholm Ref. #: S-SH3

Jade Chariot Beadwork & Silver Necklace This one-of-a-kind silver and beadwork necklace is made of yellow jade, smokey quartz, and Czech ﬁrepolished crystals. The handmade end caps are lightly textured, and the focal pendant is a stunning classical charriot made in .960 silver. Dimensions: Pendant dimensions: 1.25” x 1.125”. Overall length: 22” Price: $650 Chisholm Ref. #: SBW-N5 36

Ahead By A Nose

This silver piece captures the excitement of a close horse race. Horses and jockeys vie for position in the foreground. Behind them spectators crowd the rail with the grandstand rising in the background. Handcrafted in .960 silver. Dimensions: 1” diameter, Price: $189 Chisholm Ref. #: S-SH2 www.EliteEquestrian.us

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

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Art & Antiques

by Dr. Lori Buying Tips for New Year’s Travelers ��

s the new year commences, many of us ﬁnd ourselves taking to the skies or roads on trips for business and pleasure. At this busy time of the year, many people ﬁnd themselves hustling and bustling to new locales for work or play. As an expert appraiser, people often ask me what items are worth at locations around the world. When I travel-- and I travel a lot-- I often meet people who ask me what is a good buy or how to spot a bargain. Here’s the 411 on what to shopping for cool collectibles in many parts of the world.

When collectors travel to various parts of the world, here are some of the collectible items that you may want to shop for in some famed yet fabulous far-off locales: Australia: Coral jewelry Caribbean islands: Giant seashells, Woven handbags China: Paintings Costa Rica: Coffee, hand-made wooden crafts Denmark: Hand-made wood objects Finland: Wool clothing Germany: Contemporary art, knives Greece: Pottery Guatemala: Santos sculptures

Italy: Leather goods and fashion accessories Japan: Knives and swords Mexico: Silver, terracotta pottery Middle East: Gemstones New Zealand: Wool sweaters Panama: Hats Turkey: Linens, Tiles Puerto Rico: Mahogany furniture Russia: Matroyskas or nesting dolls South Paciﬁc islands: Basketry, Black pearls Spain: Lladro ﬁgurines

Of course, this list is not all inclusive, but it gives travelers a good starting point about what types of objects may be good buys in certain places. While the unique qualities of objects found in far off lands are interesting, be prepared to shop wisely while on vacation or traveling. Negotiate with cash when you can, be knowledgeable about exchange rates, and be sure to fully understand the shipping and return policies. Remember that in many tourist areas and big cities, the prices are inﬂated in an effort to attract buyers. Stick to your budget and compare prices from shop to shop whenever you can. No matter where you travel, remember that quality equals value. Wherever you shop—at home or abroad—negotiate politely and consider the artisan and the locale when shopping for hand-made items. The allure of hand-made items is the fact that they demonstrate a special talent and help you to recall a special trip as a keepsake or souvenir. Some of my most favorite collectibles from my travels are those hand-made items that I bought directly from the artisan or those objects that I bought after an exchange with a shop owner or other local resident. I remember clearly the time I watched as a talented Romanian woman crocheted a tablecloth in Bucharest that I now use in my sunroom, how I tried to break the language barrier with a nun at the Vatican gift shop while I shopped for silver rosary beads blessed by the Pope for my mother, and I remember when a local man drew me a map of the local roads so I could ﬁnd the sculpture studio of a Santos carver in Guatemala. Happy Hunting! ��

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Equus Film Festival

A SUNDAY HORSE There’s an exciting new horse movie scheduled for release in spring 2016 called A SUNDAY HORSE, the first American-based movie set in the heart-pounding world of Grand Prix show jumping since Disney’s 1968 “The Horse In the Grey Flannel Suit” starring young Kurt Russell. A SUNDAY HORSE is the story of a driven, talented rider from humble beginnings who defies all the odds - first, by becoming a top competitor in a field dominated by wealthy horseowners, and then coming back from a near-fatal riding accident to become the US champion jumper on a horse deemed too small and untalented for serious competition.

“A Sunday Horse” Award Winning Team!

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The film stars Nikki Reed (“Twilight”), Ving Rhames (Mission Impossible), Ryan Merriman (Final Destination), and screen legends William Shatner (Star Trek) and Linda Hamilton (Terminator). It’s directed by Vic Armstrong, legendary stunt coordinator and director (Indiana Jones; Terminator 2; Mission Impossible 3; six Bond movies) and lifelong horseman, whose father was coach of Great Britain’s National EquestrianTeam for 5 Olympic Games. The Executive Producers are: Debi Conner, Vic Armstong and William Earon in association with Global Pictures Media whose owners areGrant Cramer, Richard Barner, Stephen Zadrick, Chad Doher, Gabe Doher and Wendy Moore. Zadrick says “This movie will touch one’s heart and enrich one’s soul.” Inspired by the true-life experiences of Ocala, Florida rider/jumper/trainer Debi Connor, the word coming out of early screenings of the film is that it might be the best, most authentic movie ever made about the Grand Prix show jumping world. Though the events from Connor’s life that inspired the movie took place primarily in the 1980’s, the movie is set in the present. The film’s heroine Debi Walden (Nikki Reed) is caught between a rock and a hard place. She’s got the talent and passion for jumping, and dreams of becoming an Olympic champion. But she doesn’t have the money to train and compete, much less to buy the number of expensive horses needed to have a shot on the championship circuit. So she trades farm chores for training help, gets backing from an African American entrepreneur who’d also come from nothing and went on to become Entrepreneur of the Year, and scrapes together enough money to buy a couple of inexpensive horses with no formal jumping skills. None of them – not her, not her backer, not her horses – has the pedigree to win in this sport of elites. It just doesn’t happen that way. Ever. But somehow this team of outsiders starts making a name for themselves. Debi and the two horses she saved – Touch of Class and The Evangelist – are stunning the jumping circuit by taking ribbons in every national Grand Prix event they enter. And the talk on the circuit turns from “Who does this blonde wannabe think she’s kidding?” to “Who is this country girl and how is she winning with these non-pedigreed rejects?” They earn grudging respect from riders, trainers, and established owners alike, and suddenly they’re the team to beat. Amazingly, Debi is chosen to be on the US Olympic team for the international competition only months away. Then disaster strikes. At an exhibition for inner city students before the Olympics, Debi’s training horse crashes over a jump and falls violently on top of her. For weeks she lies in the hospital, comatose, partially paralyzed, and near death. When she finally mirac40

ulously awakens, doctors tell her there will be no more miracles. If she’s very lucky, she’ll re-learn to walk, but she’ll never ride again. Determined not to let her horse lose its chance, she sells her beloved Touch of Class to her trainer. They go on to win an unprecedented 2 gold medals at the Olympics, without Debi. After months of painful rehab, still partially paralyzed and prone to seizures, Debi enters the Governor’s Cup at the Virginia Horse Show, where most of the Olympic champions (including her own beloved Touch of Class) will compete. Fueled by sheer force of will, Debi pushes The Evangelist to a storybook finish against Touch of Class, the Olympic champion she trained, with a triumph that is still the stuff of legend in the international jumping world. A SUNDAY HORSE is a story of overcoming impossible odds. And like every true story turned into a movie, Debi Connor’s actual life is more complex than its film incarnation, filled with more triumphs - and more failures - than can ever make it to the screen in a 90-minute re-telling. The big-screen story, in addition to being set in present time, compresses events and characters, and uses Debi’s maiden name (Walden) in the events. What is not changed is the timeless and universal story of the underdog pursuing her dreams against all odds. As for Connor herself, she’s still completely immersed in show jumping. From her farm in Ocala, Florida, she is a show ring rider, buys and sells horses, and has trained horses and riders in all parts of the world. She still competes in 12-20 events a year - and wins her share. In fact, on one weekend during the film’s shooting at the Atlanta International Horse Park, Debi competed and won the blue ribbon in her class. The film had its World Premiere at the EQUUS Film Festival in New York (Nov. 19-21), with over 140 entries screened. At the festival awards ceremony, A SUNDAY HORSE was crowned Best Feature Film of the festival. An invitation-only private screening of the film was held Friday, December 18, at Goldmark Farms in Ocala, FL. A SUNDAY HORSE will debut theatrically in April, 2016. E

www.EliteEquestrian.us

��and

Imagine

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Hoof prints

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By Rebecca Larkin

a place you could ride with no boundaries. A gentle breeze mingled with the scent of saltwater. The grit of sand as your footing of choice for the day. A rustic but immaculate shoreline creating a perfect palette for my latest equine adventure. Today I rode the beaches of Amelia Island, Florida with the best people in the business, Amelia Island Horse Back Riding. My hosts were owner Debbie Manser of Amelia Island Horseback Riding and guides Cassy Clark and Chelsie Owens. They are exceptional guides with strong leadership skills, amazing ability with horses, excellent communication skills and overall friendliness. As equestrians we get often get caught up in the training and showing and forget about the sheer innocence of our originating joy with horses that set us on a life based on horses. Just riding for the sake of riding. This innocence the same as that of a child perhaps I had grown out of… now suddenly remembered. I don’t know if non equestrian folks will get this perspective but speaking from my own horse loving heart…I felt reborn and free! I drove to the easy beach access at Peter’s Point Beach Front Park and found the friendly greeting smiles of three of the nicest ladies! There too, was an assortment of well - conditioned, lovely looking horses. I chose a lovely pinto mare named, Dreamer for my ride. The horses were tacked up, wearing Western saddles and bridles. You can also ride in English tack per request. Each horse was placid and practiced with wonderful temperament and manners. My horses’ hooves dusted aside white sand and crushed coastal grasses as we made our way toward the ocean. A moment of wonder, when a horse connected me between the land and the sea in a seamless blue-green ribbon of beauty. 42

I felt reborn and free! Now directly on the ocean, I felt calm along with a feeling of not going anywhere in particular but ﬁnding everything I needed that particular day. With Cheer Beach Rides, they allow you to ride to your ability so with the wide stretch of sand in front of me it was an open invitation to gallop on! We galloped north up the beach and into the surf. Smooth strides made rhythmic hoof falls on wet-packed sand, the best footing I’ve ever felt. The horse loved it grabbing the ground with each lengthening stride.

with wedding proposals or simply ﬁrst timers. They are happy to take endless amounts of photos during your ride as well. Capturing this unique experience for you to treasure always.

The waves tickle the shore in a soothing, quiet rhythm. The beach seems to go on forever and so I venture into the ocean. My horse is eager as I to play in the waves. Honest and hearty laughter and shrills of delight as waves crash over me and soak both my jeans and boots. Riders, don’t wear your best Lucchese boots!

As my ride was drawing to an end I looked back. Hoof prints in the sand caused me pause to think of places I’d been. The unmarked sand of places I still need to venture. Amelia Island is a laid-back northeast Florida destination with miles of rolling dunes and pristine seashore.

I canter through the waves then stop to take it all in. Thankful for my sunglasses, the water shone brightly. Each ripple on the water shone like a million strobe lights spread out across the ocean. I rode back with my hosts each one sharing stories of the great adventures they’ve had with clients coming to ride. For some, life changing www.EliteEquestrian.us

The area we rode was not only beautiful but remote and fairly untouched. The beach was wide and the tide low making for the best riding experience. Beach goers were sparse but those that were there smiled and waved.

So make some time to splash in the surf and kick up some sand! Allow yourself to be lost in this sandy wonderland. Contact the friendly staff at Ameliahorsebackriding.com for your customized ride. Private and Personal horseback riding like you always imagined!

Catering to all levels of riders – By appointment only. Rides available all year long! Ameliahorsebackriding.com Call them today at Amelia Horseback Riding 904-277-7047

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EE 43

rizona

is home to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Painted Desert. There are high ponderosa pine forest, rolling grasslands, and stark desert landscapes. ��

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Utah’s Canyon-Country

rail Riding at a Premium

Rooted in a heritage of western hospitality dating to the Canyon Country’s ﬁrst Anglo settlers, Hondoo represents an understanding of Place that is often lost in our post-modern world. Headquartered in the midst of the canyon lands at Torrey, Utah near Capitol Reef National Park, in 1975 Patricia Kearney and Gary George founded Hondoo Rivers and Trails.

Pat and Gary personally guide and share their passion for the social and natural history of this extraordinary region. They imbue their trips with this knowledge, their familiarity of landscape and historical memory for community that others can’t duplicate. Sensitive to the fragile environment they visit, Pat and Gary have labored to be on the cutting edge of their trade. In implementing best practices management with low-impact camping techniques, small group size, well-maintained equipment and top notch horses, Hondoo offers camping or Inn accommodation for their trailriding excursions. Observers have lauded their guide service for its educational value, and the experience and professionalism of their crews. 50

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Hondoo Rivers & Trails has been outďŹ tting small-group, guided adventures since 1975. Specializing in backcountry horseback, vehicle and hiking holidays. Watch our video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YYnz8u3VMg www.EliteEquestrian.us

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HIS & HERS Architect and Author, John Blackburn, of ‘Healthy Stables by Design’ with LA Pomeroy, Equinista

Not every barn designer earns a feature in San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles Magazine but not every designer is John Blackburn. Like Buckminster Fuller, who challenged our concepts of home design, this author of ‘Healthy Stables by Design’ has turned traditional horse shelter on its ear, asking us to consider aerodynamic ventilation, strategic natural light, or passive solar heating and cooling to designing our barns.With 160 projects nationwide to his credit, Blackburn was among my featured guests on an Authors Panel during the third annual EQUUS Film Festival, November 19-22, in New York City, where he reiterated, “When you take a horse out of its comfort zone – the wild – it’s your obligation to create an environment that protects its health and safety. A poorly designed barn can be worse than no barn at all.” Meet a man inspired by hay forts to create barns that care about horses as much as we do.

and contexts. I’d also like to work with a client to design a completely green, self-sustaining farm.

HERS: Earliest horse-related memory? HIS: My ﬁrst real experience interacting with horses happened when I was a kid. My twin sister had a Tennessee Walker when we were about 10 or 12 years old that she kept in our neighbor’s barn. She was really enthusiastic about riding and took him to shows. Aside from the occasional bareback ride, I wasn’t too interested but loved playing in the barn. I used to make forts out of hay bales and swing on a rope hanging off the hayloft and ﬁsh at the nearby creek– real country upbringing.

HERS: Work you admire most by someone else and why? HIS: I admire architects who produce work that responds to the needs of a client and site in an environmentally-responsive way. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson comes to mind. They do brilliant contextual work that ﬁts the environment. (Editor’s note: Since 1965, Bohlin Cywinski Jackson has received more than 625 regional, national, and international design awards, including three Committee on the Environment Top Ten Green Project awards from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the prestigious AIA Architecture Firm Award).

HERS: Who or what served as inspiration to write a book about barns? HIS: I always wanted to write a book about barn design but wanted to experience a larger range of projects in different environments and contexts so as to expertly write on the topic. By the time the recession hit I had the diverse portfolio needed to exemplify my design philosophy. Maybe fortunately, the recession afforded me the time needed to focus on writing a book. HERS: First big career break? HIS: In the mid-1980s, an opportunity to work on a substantial horse barn project presented itself to me and a former colleague, Robbie Smith. Though fairly inexperienced with projects of this type, we were eager to get our feet wet and explore a new architectural arena. We studied the context and vernacular of the area and incorporated techniques that defied common barn conventions. That project was Heronwood Farm, the focus of the first chapter in my book. It was the first application of my philosophy to ensure the health and safety of the horse through design. HERS: Favorite piece of your own work and why? HIS: My kids! Actually my wife says work is my third child... I don’t have a favorite, per se. They’re all different. It’s more about favorite moments. I enjoy the smile on a client’s face when a project is completed and they’re excited about their new barn. HERS: Is there a barn or project you’d like to do one day? HIS: I would like to gain experience with international environments 54

HERS: Where can we ﬁnd your work now? HIS: We have completed projects in 30 states and two countries and currently have over 20 projects going around the country, including 13 horse farms and six residences. HERS: If you weren’t doing this, what alternative career might you have? HIS: I’ve always been hands-on and interested in how things work, so I think I would have been a builder. I also really enjoy history, so archaeology might have been something I would have liked to explore. HERS: What lasting impact do you hope your work can have on the horse world? HIS: I hope to impress upon it the role that design has in responding healthfully and safely to the needs of horses and the environment. ��

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The

ala

of the

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www.galao�heroyalhorses.com January 2, 2016 at 7:00 pm Silver Spurs Arena At Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee, Florida

January 19, 2016 at 7:00 pm Robarts Arena, Sarasota, Florida

January 3, 2016 at 4:00 pm CFE Arena, Orlando, Florida

January 24, 2016 at 4:00 pm CHARLOTTE HARBOR EVENT & CONFERENCE CENTER, Punta Gorda, Florida

January 10, 2016 at 4:00 pm JACKSONVILLE VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA, Jacksonville, Florida

January 25, 2016 at 7:00 pm CHARLOTTE HARBOR EVENT & CONFERENCE CENTER, Punta Gorda, Florida

January 17, 2016 at 4:00 pm THE LAKELAND CENTER, Lakeland, Florida www.EliteEquestrian.us

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EQUINE HEALTH

Cooled VS. Frozen emen

�� As mare owners evaluate their breeding plans for the coming spring, one of the essential questions to ponder is whether they would like to utilize cooled semen or frozen semen. There are benefits, and limitations, to either method that breeders should consider as they make their decision. Cooled semen has historically been the preferred method for many breeders and veterinarians utilizing transported semen. For most stallions, cooled semen will be viable for at least 24-hrs and usually up to 48-hrs post-collection. This means the semen can be shipped from the stallion station directly to your mare, often via FedEx or UPS. Mares need only be palpated by the vet one-time per day, or potentially even every other day, given that the sperm cells will remain viable within the uterine environment for an extended period of time. Less palpations also means a mare can more likely be managed from home as opposed to living at a veterinary clinic during the breeding process. While there will most likely be motile sperm cells well past 48-hrs, it would not be within your ideal breeding window and its use wouldn’t result in optimal breeding conditions. Cooled semen also tends to be less irritating to a mare’s uterus and historically conception rates have been slightly higher than frozen semen rates (although this does vary per stallion and management situation). Cooled semen is most often sold in a LiveFoal Guarantee contract and many mare owners appreciate the security of knowing they have the opportunity for breeding multiple cycles if needed. There are a wide variety of terms associated with an LFG contract that can vary per stallion or managing station, so be sure to read the breeding contracts fully before finalizing your decisions. Cooled semen however does have its limitations. Breeding seasons and collection schedules will vary per stallion, so be sure to check into date restrictions, collection days, and notification schedules prior to booking your breeding. Breeders are also often limited to stallions within their own country for cooled semen (shipping between the US/Canada does have restrictions and 60

��

not all stallions can send cooled semen to Canada at this time). Coordinating the timing for ordering semen can become tricky if a mare moves faster, or slower, through her cycle than anticipated. Weekends and holidays may affect transportation and at times a stallion’s show plans may conﬂict with breeding schedules. The key to success is frequent communication between mare and stallion owners. One of frozen semen’s biggest advantages is the ability to ship semen well ahead of a mare’s cycle and thereby avoiding potential timing problems either due to delays in transit, show schedules, or a mare’s cycle progressing slower/faster than anticipated. Knowing the semen is sitting there waiting for when the mare is ready is a huge relief. A mare owner can also ship multiple doses, even from different stallions, in one shipment to potentially save on shipping expenses. Most specialized shipping containers that are used to transport frozen semen can hold their temperature for around 10 days. Longer-term storage may be available through your veterinarian. Frozen semen may be sold either with a Live-Foal Guarantee contract like cooled semen, or on a per dose contract with no guarantee. Per dose purchases can save a mare owner IF the mare settles on one cycle, but could potentially be much more expensive if a breeder has to go multiple cycles or seasons to get a pregnancy and a foal safely on the ground. Knowing both the fertility record of the stallion’s frozen semen as well as the mare’s fertility record, breeding status, and age will help breeders and vets determine if per dose frozen semen is a good option for their breeding plans. While shipping and timing of ordering is less complicated with frozen semen, one has a much narrower window to coordinate between the insemination of the mare and www.EliteEquestrian.us

��

when she ovulates. The semen must be thawed properly, and immediately inseminated into the mare, and the mare must ovulate all within a short time span for optimal conception rates. The need to keep this window as short as possible often requires multiple ultrasounds, sometimes as frequently has every 3-6 hrs. Often it makes the most sense from a management perspective to have your mare at a reproduction facility during this process which can raise the expenses for a mare owner. Discuss with your veterinarian their personal preferences regarding breeding management and their recommendations for your mare. Ask if your vet has a preference between cooled semen and frozen semen for your mare, and why. Many factors will go into this evaluation including your mare’s age and her reproductive history. While the choice of stallion will be your decision, your vet can help you evaluate the potential expenses and develop the best management plan for your mare. We are fortunate that reproductive technologies continue to advance and that we have the option between so many different stallions with the widespread acceptance of both cooled and frozen semen. Good luck with your breedings in the future! ��

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onsiderations for Breeding Contacts

When review contracts concerning breeding, it is important to keep in mind exactly which interest you represent and what is your ultimate goal. If you are the stallion owner, you want to ensure that you are not making guarantees upon which you cannot deliver, perpetuate the reputation of your stallion and his service and protect your ability to get paid. If you are the mare’s owner, you want to protect the health of your mare and foal, while ensuring that you do not have to pay for stallion services in the event you do not obtain a live foal. If you represent the stallion station or agency, you must consider your own liability, your agency relationships and duties, and also get paid. Breeding creates complicated relationships, and a good contract goes a long way to anticipating and providing solutions, and apportioning risk, for those problems that might arise. ��

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All of our formulas are Touchless meaning they are spray-on with no rub-on required. Applying creams or ointments to animals can be difﬁcult if the skin is sensitive, in a hard to reach area, or if the animal won’t hold still. Our spray pumps deliver a measured amount of product (~0.2gm) in a uniform circular pattern that then bonds to the skin eliminating any need for rubbing. Other topical spray products deliver a watery diffuse “doughnut” pattern of product that runs and drips down the skin. Many others have a water base, which dilutes the active ingredient, or an alcohol base which stings. Our sprays have a high concentration of active ingredient with very little water and none of our sprays contain irritating preservatives, surfactants, fragrances or alcohol making it a great product for your Equine care needs.

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EQUINE HEALTH

COPD

IN HORSES,

Really?

��

Ofﬁcially COPD is called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; however, is more commonly called heaves or broken wind. As for the primary cause, that is under debate although the general feeling is that it is caused by an exposure to dust, mold, allergens and/or air pollutants. There are two basic types or categories of COPD. Some horses react to pollutants/allergens in the barn and get better when outside while others react to pollutants/allergens outside but are ﬁne when indoors. The debated factor is why some horses react and other do not when exposed to the same pollutants. The possibility of genetic involvement is currently being researched. What is known; however, is that dust, mold and other pollutants can bring on an episode of COPD quickly and ignoring it won’t make it go away. In fact, there is no vaccine for prevention nor is there a cure. WHAT HAPPENS WITH COPD? Going back to school biology, the respiratory system functions as an exchange station for oxygen and carbon dioxide. Oxygen enters the nostrils and is utilized as fuel in the body then the waste carbon dioxide is brought back and removed or exhaled from the body. The structures within the horse’s body allow this exchange to occur easily.

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In a horse that has COPD, inflammation occurs within several hours of exposure. Airways can become obstructed due to bronchospasms and the accumulation of exudates and mucus. This results in the horse having to work harder to breathe, especially during exhalation. Because of the resultant forced exhalation, horses that have had the condition for many years develop a characteristic “heave line” on the side of the abdomen near the flank area. Horses that are only beginning to develop COPD generally show little to no clinical signs other than mild exercise intolerance which many riders excuse as being unfit. As the disease progresses, the heave line muscles increase in size, a white cloudy nasal discharge may occur, chronic coughing, lessening of the appetite, weight loss, and general reluctance to exercise can occur. Secondary bacterial infections can also result. COPD is a year round disease as it becomes clinical whenever the pollutant that causes the reactions in that particular horse is present. As each horse is different, there is no way to predict which horses or when COPD with raise its head. As stated before, it is not curable; however, it can be managed but it places the burden of prevention of reoccurrence solely on the owner.

PREVENTION The quality of the hay is a key aspect in prevention. All hay is not equal. A horse consumes 1% of its body weight daily in hay or grass. This poses a lot of room for pollutants to occur. Mold and dust can always be considered a culprit. When fed in round bales in the field or flakes in the stalls, the horse burrows its nose into the pile thus inhaling a concentration of spores, dust and assorted particulate matter contained within the hay. COPD is triggered easily. Other triggers could be in the air or on the grasses. Pollens and pollutants are everywhere and cannot be controlled. COPD is best managed by carefully observing the horse throughout the year and noting what time of year it flares up and what was the contact with. This may assist in limiting the exposure. Areas to observe are clean stalls with no ammonia smell, quality hay, hay that is stored away from the stall area so as not in the ventilation air stream, bedding other than straw, disinfecting the walls and floors, raking rather than sweeping to keep the dust down, water soaking the hay before presentation and alternative feeding regimens to name a few. Your veterinarian can assist you in finding the source for your particular horse.

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TREATMENT There are various medicines that are available for the temporary relief of COPD but none are curative. Bronchodilators dilate the passageways so that more air can flow in and out of the lungs. Mucolytic compounds dissolve the mucus. Corticosteroids will reduce the inflammation but all result only in temporary relief. One note of caution, overuse of corticosteroids can suppress the immune system and can then predispose the horse to infection and in some instances laminitis development. It is vital that you and your veterinarian develop a plan of treatment specific for your horse and avoid the general consumer myths that are in circulation.

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I’d like to note that I ran out of product, and had to treat it with another topical for about 2 weeks until I was able to get another bo�le, or I have no doubt it would have healed faster. When using the other product, there was really no change in the wound. As soon as I started using the Silver Zinc Oxide again, it began to shrink every day! -Noelle Vander Brink, Editor, Elite Equestrian Magazine

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EQUINE HEALTH

It’s Hard to

Live a Healthy Life When You are

DEAD

��

So this veterinary friend of mine died yesterday. Unexpectedly, and to the great shock of the equine community in the area. He was a good person who did his best but he was the ONLY board certified surgeon in the area. Not that other people are not doing surgery, they just are not certified. But my point here is that it left a hole that will be filled but not as quickly as some might think.

In part it won’t be filled quickly because most students who are graduating now would prefer to sit around the clinic to wait for the surgeries to come in. They don’t have any inclination to go out in the field all day to see cases because they are surgeons. Large animal veterinarians are currently an endangered species. He filled both roles, the ambulatory clinician and the surgeon. So in that sense there is no one to take his place but not because he was irreplaceable. No one can take his place because the model of what veterinary medicine was is changing. It must change because there are fewer and fewer men and women who are willing to live such desperate lives. And it will change slowly because animal owners will resist change until they become more educated. Animal owners have lived a long engrained habit that will be like giving up smoking. It was not his intention to leave people in a lurch. When the model for animal health shifts from treating illness and emergency care to maintaining wellness: when doctors learn

about maintaining health rather than treating disease, then the ability of animal owners to take care of their animals will improve, and the ability for doctors to take care of those animals will become more humane to both the animals and the doctors. As it is, the model is a detriment to both the animal community and to the doctor supplying the skill set to maintain it. Historically veterinarians wanted to be the only game in town in order to ensure enough business to make the payments and send the kids to school. They might see their patients once or twice a year. Losing out on the opportunity to see them at that big emergency meant possibly losing them as a client. This friend who died spent a lot of time working. He tried very hard to make some balanced life choices. He hired enough help to try to keep his work week to only 4 days, plus emergency duty and weekends. While his wife was giving birth to their ﬁrst child, he was performing colic surgery. It was the model of care to which most large animal doctors aspired. It is written in the veterinarian’s history book by James Herriot, “All Creatures Great and Small”: work hard and get paid in chickens.

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This model is designed so that animal owners have little or no idea how to care for their animals. It doesn’t take into consideration that a horse is not meant to stand in a stall and never touch grass for most of its life. It ignores the fact that humans tend to give animals the life that is convenient to the humans, which sets them up for failure at being an animal. The owner doesn’t need to understand because all he has to do is call the vet to ﬁx his mistakes. This lifestyle was very familiar to me. I spent many years chasing this “dream” job. I’ve been an equine veterinarian since 1998, and have lived the lifestyle that has damaged my family, my friends and myself. That glass of wine at night to go to sleep so I could stop thinking about sick horses, then taking caffeine in the morning to wake up so I could think about sick horses. Out all night on emergencies driving in the dark. Balancing my own books into the wee hours of the morning. Leaving a holiday party at the drop of a hat to see an animal. Cancelling appearances at my son’s school activities so I could go to work instead. My work had taken over my life. All of it was due to poor planning on both my part and the part of the clients whom I served. And their poor planning was in part my fault because I didn’t prepare them to be able to plan ahead and avoid the emergencies.

creation than in the doctor. I also see that both their health and my business health would improve if there were an animal chiropractor on every street corner, because there can never be enough animal chiropractors to service all of the animals in need. This is not true of the current model for animal health. My friend will be missed because he was good at what he did. People who will miss his skill set can ﬁnd someone to replace that skill set. They will recall stories of what a great guy he was because he sent them emails at midnight, or took care of their horse once because they didn’t get the other vet on the phone. His children and wife will always have a hole in their lives because he saved he lives of animals for owners who had no idea the mistakes they made. He was just 55, barely. “Fit and healthy” said many. If he were then he wouldn’t have died. Healthy animals don’t get sick for no reason. The mystery that surrounds many illnesses can be solved when doctors look at what they know and apply it as a preventative. Taking into consideration the world around them, most animal illnesses can be prevented with better husbandry. Which makes the life of the veterinarian and in turn the life of the animal owner less stressful. In the study of health that I found in animal chiropractic, I learned that nutrition, the weather, and even the season are parts of the system I can use to adjust animal health for the better. In my new world, I see most of my patients every month. This gives me a better overall image of their health and allows me time to educate my clients in how to prevent upcoming issues that may be developing.

The model for animal health must shift from treating illness and emergency care to maintaining wellness.

One year when I wanted to take a couple weeks off to visit my parents and a friend, a client trapped me in her house for 4 hours scolding me about how I couldn’t leave for that long in case her foundered pony needed to be put to sleep. And this is the expectation of most every horse owner--that veterinarians are just waiting around for their animals to need care. Even after I stopped doing emergency work, I continued to have the cravings for it. Stufﬁng my sleeping child in the car seat at 11 p.m. to go treat a colic. Eating the McDonald’s diet twice a day because that was the only place open both before work and when I was on the way home after 11 p.m; or not eating at all because there was no time. As a veterinarian and an animal chiropractor I have discovered that animals do better when I have faith that their immune systems will work as designed. More faith in the

Animal owners are taking the time to learn how to prevent illness in their animals, which helps the health of their veterinarian. I teach a class called “Cellular Healing” to doctors and animal owners. The title suggests it is about how to ﬁx a sick animal, but it is really a recipe for ﬁxing a health care model that damages both animal health and animal owning communities. In it people learn how the seasons really do change the health of their animals, how food can be a drug, and how to be less co-dependent and more inter-dependent.

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Phantom Brook Farm offers assisted veterinary care/convalescent services as directed by your own veterinarian and performed by a certiﬁed veterinary technician. Those services include but are not limited to: • • • • •

Wound care Foaling and mare care Hand walking Leg injuries Clinical lab test performed on site

• • • • • •

Medication dosing Ice water system therapy Postoperative care Lay-ups Eye treatments In-stall camera monitoring

Owner operated, we offer 24-hour coverage of your horse in a secure and safe environment. We also offer retirement plans for elderly or compromised horses.

Let us make a difference with your horse. Joe and Marilyn Heath, CVT, MS 203 Washburn Ave. Washington, NJ 07882 (908) 689-4428 www.phantombrookfarm.com pbfarm@comcast.net www.EliteEquestrian.us

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MUST HAVES for your horse

Whoa Factor 1

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Bombers Bits offer a lifetime guarantee across their bit collection and work along the philosophy that a horse is an animal of ﬂight, so it will never yield to pressure or pain and will either move away from it or run away. Their bit collection is hand crafted with this ethos in mind and with the focus on promoting a positive response and acceptance from the horse.Their signature ‘Blue’ blaze of colour across each bit is the result of the change in colour after treating the sweet iron and ensures that their collection is instantly recognisable. Shown: Bombers Loose Ring Elliptical Comfy Snafﬂe £62.00. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

This Oakcroft Stainless-Vinyl Large Tack Trunk measures 38”x23.5”x22.5”. It’s pictured with chrome hardware / trim, stainless steel front and top panel, vinyl side panels, ebony stain, and a laser cut logo. It comes standard with a grooming tote and tray inside the trunk. Contact info: Oakcroft PO Box 70, Marne, MI 49435 1-877-663-5031 info@oakcroft.com See our ad pg 86 www.oakcroft.com

Hutchison HW Brand Traditional Horse Stalls are made with 2” x 2” square 16 gauge fame material. Vertical rails are 1”/14 gauge material. All vertical bars on fronts and dividers are at 3” spacing. Horse-proof latch is mounted ﬂush with door. Stall fronts have door in the center. Drop down grill is recessed into rolling door. Feed grills come standard with Traditional stall fronts. Hutchison HW Brand – www. hutchison-inc.com - 800-525-0121 See our ad pg 2 www.hutchison-inc.com 800-525-0121

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Metron-Hoof Software Fantastic Product for Farriers and Owners Serious About Soundness! The Metron-Hoof software lets you record the conformation of the hoof using photos from a digital camera or radiographs supplied by your veterinarian. The easy-to-use software guides you to pick key points on the image, and then computes several important measurements which help deﬁne the stateof the hoof. If you have a digital camera and an interest in keeping track of your horse’s hooves, this product is for you. Want to track progress (or lack of progress) correcting contracted heels? Broken-back pasterns? Low heels? Long toes? Metron software is in use by hundreds of owners, farriers, and veterinarians. Metron-Hoof, and the more powerful Metron-Hoof-Pro, are intended for farriers, trimmers, and owners. Metron software can be ordered from our web-site at www.eponatech.com See our ad page 65

Everything your horse eats affects its health & performance. Certiﬁed Organic, Whole-food Equine Nutrition programs starting from $49/ month! Most feed & supplements contain chemicals, synthetic vitamins, genetically modiﬁed ingredients and preservatives … There is a difference – and we make it! Tami George, Regional Nutritional Consultant: 800-231-0670, email: jeta@northlink.com, www.tamigeorge.com

Jochen Schleese’s Best Selling Book & DVD Gift Pack $30 SUFFERING IN SILENCE – The Saddle Fit Link to Physical and Psychological Trauma in Horses ‘Beyond the 9 Points of Saddle Fitting’ DVD by Jochen Schleese. Jochen’s 48 min DVD shows symptomatic causes of poor saddle ﬁt and discusses common equine concerns, with a step by step system to check saddle ﬁt using effective visuals and riding demonstrations. Essential information for every equestrian who cares about the well-being for horse and rider! $30 (+ taxes S&H) Saddlesforwomen.com info@schleese.com 800-225-2242 See our ad pg 85

Essential to Thrive Since 1975! Our unique SOURCE® micronutrients provide the most effective nutrients to help develop optimum health, coat, weight and hoof condition. Celebrating 40 years of guaranteed, effective results because… IT WORKS! www.4source.com 800-232-2365 See our ad page 61

8 Like trail riding?

You’ll LOVE endurance! The “to finish is to win” sport

American Endurance Ride Conference

WINTER WOOLIES! This cute knitted sweater from Pink Whiskers brings a touch of Nordic glamour and warmth to your dog’s winter wardrobe. The Nordic Style Wool Sweater is woven in natural wool, which allows your dog’s skin to breath, whatever the weather and features a gorgeous Nordic design throughout in Slate Grey and Ecru. A cute jumper that you will be wishing came in human sizing! Sizes: XS - XL RRP: £18.00 www.pinkwhiskers.co.uk

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Elite Equestrian Magazine, Nov/Dec 2015 and Jan/Feb 2016 www.EliteEquestrian.us American Endurance Ride Conference

� �

TACK & TRAINING SADDLE FIT Q & A

Q A

uestion:

Is it alright to shave my horse’s whiskers off?

NSWER: No. This really isn’t okay at all - for the following reasons, with thanks to Wikipedia and Paul McGreavy as references. Whiskers or vibrissae are actually a type of mammalian hair that are typically larger in size than normal hairs, have a large and well-innervated hair follicle, and have an identiﬁable representation in the somatosensory cortex of the brain.

They are specialized especially for tactile sensing (while any type of hair has more crude tactile sensors. Horses use their lips and whiskers to explore and identify things. A horse’s brain contains cells that receive information from these whiskers. Each time the horses’ whiskers touch something, the nerves ﬁre off an electrical impulse to the brain to help determine what it is that is being touched. Horses breathe through their noses. When a horse curls its top lip up to help in smelling something, it’s known as “Flehmen”. This happens when the nose traps pheromonal scents in the vomeronasal organs so they can be analysed more closely. Horse’s upper lips are prehensile – which means they can be used for grasping, touching or feeling something. Horses cannot see right below their noses because of the position of their eyes, which means that they use their whiskers to help them determine edible objects and stay away from hazardous ones.

If you remove these sensory organs, it is almost as though you were cutting off your ﬁngertips. You would lose all sense of touch. I hope people will reconsider their personal vanities and do what’s right for the horse.

Jochen Schleese, German Certified Master Saddler and Saddle Ergonomist, teaches saddle fit principles to protect horse and rider from long-term damage caused by ill-fi�ing saddles. www.saddlefit4life.com 702-370-1199 EE info@saddlefit4life.com www.saddlesforwomen.com

D L SO

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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO DAVID LAUINGER OF DJL EQUESTRIAN SERVICES AND HIS LOVELY INSTALLATION AT Louise W. Serio from Derbydown, Inc. Louise says “I love my rings!! David does a great job!”

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Photos by Melissa Morrill 75

TRAINING On Horses SHOWING and Treats

�� Have you ever wondered about the use of food in horse training? Have you questioned what makes it an appropriate choice? Have you wondered if you’re getting your point across to the horse? Have you considered what’s the horse’s take on treats? And have you noticed that every horse can feel differently? Do not feel surprised if you have not yet thought about it, keep reading and you will have the opportunity to learn and answer these questions. Very few horsemanship clinicians take time to talk about the use of food, and even less, do so with a horse off of the line, when the horse’s expression is completely allowed. Joining us in one of HH Sensing courses, online or on site is an option that will help you, but first let’s make some very important points in horsemanship. Between human beings and horses, food is normally thought as a reward. The reasons for this fact are many, and certain food can also produce endorphins, which affect the animal body in a chemical way that, once started, goes beyond what voluntary action can control. This is a positive component because it makes the horse feel good, but it can also be a problem with horses that have a dominant personality. Food can make them display this trait and become more difficult to manage. If this happens we need to immediately stop using treats. In HH Sensing food is intended as a more detailed way to communicate with the horse and develop its interest in our interaction. The use of food can give the chance to develop other important parts of the relationship, such as the respect and the willingness to respond to our requests. Having a wider vocabulary we can use with the horse can increase the efficiency of training through conditioning. Horses naturally intend food as a life necessity, but many other matters revolve around it. For example, in nature, the presence of a certain kind of plants can mark some horse’s favorite territory. Between horses, along with territory and food goes respect. A horse that is high up in the pecking order will claim a territory and keep other herd members out of it, when he is hungry. Submissive horses usually are the ones that 76

eat last in the herd, surrender a territory, and the grass or hay (food) that is on it. This simple fact should make us think twice when we decide to give our horse a treat. If we are dealing with a horse with a strong personality we may be putting ourselves in a lower ranking position, rather than rewarding a good performance. We may even be asking for more trouble by moving the horse’s attention on the subject of food, and as we already mentioned, can lead to the display of dominant behavior from the horse during our interaction. In a natural setting, lead horses have other reasons as motivation for their behavior, related to the survival of the whole herd, and sometimes they would act submissively, but it is only because they do not care about getting into sterile disputes around territory and food. Aside from the genetic component of being born a lead horse, such individual develops its personality by living with its herd in a certain territory and being challenged by keeping the herd alive, and safe from predators and dangers. Horses living in domestic settings are not challenged by the search for life necessities, because those are provided, nor they are aiming to breed, because the herds are not formed by a stallion with its mares, or a bachelor group. A part of their lead horse personality, related to keeping the herd alive and safe, coming from experience more than from genetics, never gets expressed. The main part of their life as lead horses is spent in overseeing the social relationships in the herd. In the state of domestication horses have limited territory and food, and they can easily get into disputes more often because of the lack of space. If the dispute happens between horses, it is a balanced act, but when a horse that is very territorial interacts with a human being, his territorial behavior can result in getting punished for being dominant. Acting as a dominant individual can be at times a very subtle fact, like when horses take a step into the personal area of another individual. Most people do not even notice this, because they are not aware of it happening, or of the connection between territory occupied and respect. In the human mind respect www.EliteEquestrian.us

has other connotations than just the simple act of stepping into another individual’s personal territory. From the human point of view bad behavior needs to be punished, but this act can actually reinforce it, instead of erasing it. Ideally, I would like to give horsemanship its real meaning, the relationship between man and horse where, indeed, both have the desire to be part of it and clearly understand each other, without the communication or the desire, the relationship would merely be a casual encounter. No individual, if given the choice would participate to an action that feels undesirable for some reason. In such situation the harmony needed to work in team would be lacking. As it appears from the normal observation of horses, their dialogues are about simple matters, like territory, water, food, companionship, but when we interact with them we ask them to act upon much more complicated issues, normally related to perform actions that do not make immediate sense for them, and often bring them pain and anxiety. By nature, horses are extremely alert and present, while human beings, which are at the top of the food chain, do not worry about being as alert and present. I think that if at the beginning of our relationship we try to gain their cooperation around simpler matters, we could in a much easier way have their willingness, even around more complicated issues. This is true especially if we do it with interactions that make sense and are enjoyable for the horse too. The use of food is a great idea, if we are aware that the horse does not just see it as a reward, and if we learn to use its “equine meaning”, related to territory and respect, we would have a more extensive vocabulary in our horsemanship. Not using food in horsemanship, is actually limiting our own expression. ��

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ACTHA , the American Competitive Trail Horse Association, will once again hold resort destination rides in 2016 under the tutelage of long time ride hosts Beth Pedaggi at Lanier Islands Resort in Buford, Georgia and Beth Moran at the �� Westgate River Ranch and Rodeo in River Ranch, Florida. Both the Lanier Islands Resort and the Westgate River Ranch and Rodeo are all inclusive resorts packed full of countless amenities for the whole family to enjoy throughout the weekend of ACTHA competitions. The diversity of accommodations and activities make both of these resorts a not to miss destination for trail riders and their families. For dates of ACTHA rides scheduled at these locations please visit www.actha. us/events. For information and a full list of amenities at Lanier Islands Resort and Westgate River Ranch please visit www.lanierislands.com and http://westgateresorts. com/river-ranch/

Westgate River Ranch River Ranch, Florida

By Ride Host Beth Moran Our ride last fall was full of life time moments!!! The top prize we gave away was a week at the Parelli Campus, a dream come true for a rider, plus many other incredible prizes. We were blessed with outstanding fall weather and an incredible range of landscapes at the historic Kissimmee Island. Great weather, great trails and luxury accommodations were only the beginning. Riders were treated to the running of the horses out to the evening pasture and the Cracker Cowboys bringing in the rodeo bulls with traditional Florida Cracker whips and glorious horses. Nothing better than thundering hooves and skilled cowboys! The best part is, we are going to do it all again in the fall. October 1-2, 2016 will be the culmination of a three ride series in style. Westgate River Ranch has something to offer the whole family from riders to non-riders. Additional activities include; golf, skeet shooting, airboats, ﬁshing and a full scale Saturday night rodeo that many of the ACTHA competitors had the opportunity to compete in last year. Accommodations include rooms, hookups, glamping, cottages and even teepees. There is a restaurant and diner on site, a gym and many, many other great perks. The horses of course, are also kept in a well maintained barn. But don’t dally! Get our event at the Westgate Ranch on your schedule to get the discounted deals and stalls. Information about the River Ranch ride can be found on my Facebook page “It’s all fun and games ACTHA rides” and on the ACTHA website www.actha.us/events.

Lanier Islands Resort Buford, Georgia By Ride Host Beth Pedaggi

Lanier Islands Resort in Buford, Georgia will once again play host to a spring ACTHA event. Slated for the ﬁrst weekend in April, with an April fool’s joke theme this is bound to be an entertaining event, given the ingenuity of ACTHA riders and ride hosts. Last year’s spring ride attracted 80 horse and rider teams from as far away as Texas, something that could only be attributed to the scenic trails, great accommodations and entertainment opportunities offered at Lanier Islands for the whole family.

Continued on page 94 www.EliteEquestrian.us

WHY RIDE AN ARABIAN OR HALF ARABIAN REINER? Reasons Are Individual, Results The Same – These Horses Are FUN! ��

The 2016 Arabian Reining Horse Association’s (ARHA) Arabian and Half Arabian Futurity looms high on the horizon with the prestigious 61st Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show opening on Thursday, February 11 and extending through Sunday, February 21, 2016. Widely recognized as the largest and best known Arabian show in the world, this event attracts hordes of Arabian horse aficionados from around the globe. A win in Scottsdale launches the show season with high recognition in the push toward wins in the Canadian Nationals in late summer and US Nationals in October. The Futurity is an inﬂuential part of the growing interest in reining which is currently rated the fastest growing of all Arabian disciplines. In the past decade reining has consistently attracted new participants and the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) is adding Arabian and Half Arabian classes to three of its sanctioned reining events. This level of interest prompted the membership-driven ARHA Show organizers to add opportunities for amateur adult riders and youth competitors to the class schedule for the 2016 event. In addition, the organization announced a 2016 High Point Adult Amateur Owner Reining Program. �� Reining competitors talk frequently of the camaraderie, friendly atmosphere and all the laughter and good-natured humor of the arena. Part of what leads to this atmosphere is that riders are judged by individual rides unlike many other classes where numerous horses and riders are in the ring at the same time. Competitors in each reining class ride a speciﬁc pattern and are judged by their ability to ride that pattern as perfectly as possible. The horses are highly responsive to rider queues making this sport both a mental and physical challenge for riders.

she exclaims with absolute conﬁdence, “You should just contact a trainer, and take the opportunity to go ride a reiner! Just go do it!” Leona and her mother Petra Dries of Gut Fronleitenhof, in Krumbach, Austria, are also the owners of Baikal, the multi-time champion European reining horse. In September Baikal daughter GH Shanna and her rider/breeder Gerhard Hairas claimed European Champion Reining at the European Championships in Poland. They plan for TA Markoni to join Baikal to stand at stud on their Austrian farm. Markoni may compete in reining competitions in Europe. Reining is popular throughout the EU and especially popular in Italy where there are numerous events. Leona and Petra are regulars at the Scottsdale Show and rate the ARHA Futurity event as one of their favorite shows of the year.

Cori Sampson Vokoun of Buckshot Farms in Lincoln, Nebraska, appreciates that responsive attitude and ability to focus that makes a good reining horse so special. “When I go to the barn to get a horse for a pleasure ride, I always take a reiner,” she says. “You can just do anything with these horses – they back up, they turn, they are responsive – just a pleasure to ride. I love all of our horses, right now we have about 60, with the majority being Arabians and Half-Arabians. I ride every breed and in just about every discipline from Saddle Seat to Working Cow Horse but the reining is very special for me.”

Marjorie J Carr of Miami, Florida, an accomplished amateur rider, breeder and judge is proof positive of reining’s growing popularity. Two years ago she tried out a Working Cow Horse for her mother at Nationals and the long time Saddle Seat competitor found she really like the ride. Last year she bought a reiner. “Riding a reiner has helped me develop as a rider,” she explains. “The precise techniques of reining apply across the spectrum. You really need to focus to achieve the extreme precision that makes a great ride.”

“I started riding when I was 12 and won my ﬁrst National Championship in 1991, Stock Seat Equitation 14-17 on Pretense. We still have him here on the farm, he’s 33 years old. Our nine-year-old twins, Alex and Reagan, are riding Short Stirrup Classes now, which is so much fun for our family. We bred reiners and are so pleased to ﬁnd more and more people interested in Arabians and Half Arabians in this sport.”

Marjorie is a horse show veteran in Saddle Seat and grew up riding. She has shown nearly every horse breed. This year she shows as a reiner rookie with her Half Arabian at the US Nationals. “It’s going to be great fun,” she exclaims. “You just have to experience the thrill of a good ride on a reiner! Extreme fun is my best description.”

“What I like the most about riding reiners is that as a rider you have control of your own performance. You know what the pattern is, you have a plan to ride to that pattern and you know how your ride goes. Reining is addictive! And it isn’t as difﬁcult as people might think. I’d encourage anyone to just give it a try. We like letting people ride our horses, so come see us and just try,” she exclaims enthusiastically. Some 6,000 miles from Cori, veterinarian Leona Dries, the winner of the 2015 AATR Purebred Reining on TA Markoni, shares the same sentiments about the sport. Asked what she would say to people who are drawn to reining but are uncertain of what to do, 78

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�� Reining competitions are all about action, not only on the part of horses and riders, but with a lot of vocal support from the audience. A great slide get draws appreciation from the crowd as well as fellow competitors. The individual ride judging gives participants the opportunity to watch and connect with the action after riding your best. Enthusiasm for reining and the ARHA’s Arabian and Half Arabian Futurity extends beyond the competitors as ARHA Futurity sponsors continue to show their support as well. Wells Fargo Advisors returns again as 2016 arena sponsor. This company is a subsidiary of Wells Fargo & Company, one the United States’ largest and strongest financial institutions. In business since 1852 and named on Fortune magazine’s 2013 list of the “World Most Admired Companies,” Wells Fargo is known and respected for its responsible stewardship of client assets. A non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company, Wells Fargo Advisors provides advisory services, asset management, brokerage services, estate planning strategies, retirement planning, portfolio analysis and monitoring, and other financial services through some 15,000 Financial Advisors. Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC. A renowned symbol of the company’s brand, the Wells Fargo Stagecoach, will roll into the Arabian Horse Show for the opening weekend of the Show, on Saturday, February 13, 2016. Show attendees are welcome to enjoy the Stagecoach for a firsthand experience of this American icon. “The Wells Fargo Stagecoach is a unique expression of the company’s rich heritage tracing to the settlement of the West,” explains David Kistner, Managing Director Market Manager of Wells Fargo Advisors. “The stagecoach symbolizes how we continue to come through for our customers and the diverse communities in which we serve.” Multi-time sponsor Markel Insurance returns as sponsor of the popular Celebrity Slide event. The granddame of reining, Eleanor Hamilton, of Eleanor’s Arabian Farm in Rogers, Minnesota, together with her late multi-champion stallion, Hesa Zee, return as bedrock supporters of the sport where Hesa Zee’s offspring continue to capture championships to carry on his legacy. Additional returning sponsors include Kyle Tack of Whitesboro, Texas, Equine Silver Spurs Equine of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Bingham Equipment Company in Mesa, Arizona. “A win at the ARHA Futurity is a prestigious win,” states Connie Cole O’Brien of Winnemucca, Nevada. “The Futurity selects top ranked NRHA judges, the prizes are great, the venue is outstanding, and the atmosphere is exciting and fun. The event offers everything for the Arabian and Half Arabian reining competitors.” Mrs. O’Brien is well qualified to make this assessment as a former professional trainer turned amateur and breeder as well as carded USEF and Arabian Horse Association judge for over 20 years with National/Regional status as well as “R” status in Western/Reining Seat Equitation and Reining. She is also licensed in the NRHA and the National Reined Cow Horse Association and has judged at the national and international championship levels. Reiners talk of the camaraderie, friendly atmosphere and all the laughter and good-natured humor of the arena. But in the end, this show is a special experience because of all the people who enjoy each other’s company as much as great horses. According to Connie, getting hooked on reining is not complicated. “Try it, just try riding a reiner!” she exclaims. “Feel the sense of communication with your horse and exhilaration of the ride. Before you know it, you’ll be on the rail cheering for your friends – and they will be cheering you on as you slide right into this great world of reining and Arabian horses.”

ARHA Arabian and Half Arabian Futurity details at www.arha.net.

EE www.EliteEquestrian.us

et Ready for the

2016 Winter Equestrian Festival!

Following the conclusion of Saturday night competition, nightlife continues at The Gallery Night Club at PBIEC. The Gallery is a stylish modern lounge that is open to the public every Saturday night with table seating and VIP bottle service available, along with great DJs and dancing. The ﬁrst “Saturday Night Lights” event is a crowd favorite, the always popular Battle of the Sexes, which features a team of 10 women riding against a team of 10 men in fun phases of competition. The women have won every year and hope to defend their title once again on January 16.

The 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) returns with top-level equestrian sport at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) this winter from January 13 to April 3. Managed by Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP), WEF hosts the world’s best horses and riders in every hunter/jumper discipline from Olympic-level show jumping to short-stirrup divisions over twelve weeks of fantastic competition. With more than 70 divisions, WEF offers something for everyone who wants to compete in the world’s premier winter equestrian destination. The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has long been recognized as one of the finest equestrian venues in the world. Each winter, riders from 33 countries and all 50 U.S. states travel to Wellington to compete at PBIEC. The venue covers 500 acres with 80 acres of competition rings alone. During WEF, more than 6,500 horses compete at the show grounds throughout the 12-week circuit. This year’s WEF features four CSI 5* rated weeks of competition, which is the highest level of show jumping in the world. Riders compete during the week to qualify for the major Saturday night grand prix classes. The five-star grand prix competitions will be featured on February 13, February 27, March 12, and the grand finale, the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5*, on April 2. Each Saturday, the “Saturday Night Lights” series features fun activities for spectators to enjoy, in addition to the fantastic equestrian sport. Wellington residents are invited to enjoy the popular Kid’s Fair, which features the Venetian carousel, bounce houses, face painting, magicians, and a petting zoo. Families can choose from a variety of food vendors. Spectators of age can also enjoy margaritas from Tito’s Tacos or other adult beverages at The Tiki Hut. 80

Another fan favorite is the FEI Nations Cup, where teams represent their country over two rounds of competition to see which nation is best. The exciting event brings horses and riders from around the globe to compete on Wellington’s international stage in an impressive night of top sport on Friday, March 4.

Other competition on the grass derby field includes a $25,000 Artisan Farms U25 speed class, a $35,000 Suncast® 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic, and a $50,000 Jumper Derby on Sunday, February 21, during week six. The $50,000 Artisan Farms U25 Final and an $86,000 Suncast® 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic will be held on Sunday, March 27, during week eleven. The derby field also hosts hunter competition, including the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Finale on Sunday, April 3, to conclude the winter season. The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center features fun activities throughout the week, with competition running Wednesday through Sunday. Spectators can watch horses and riders compete at various levels in 12 different rings, enjoy different restaurants across the show grounds, and shop on Vendor Row and other vendor locations throughout the venue. The vendor boutiques offer fashion for men, women and children, jewelry, home design, fine art, photography, horseware and more. The show grounds also feature their own WEF Boutique located on the South Bridge deck overlooking the International Arena and in the Vendor Village. Find the perfect WEF clothing, posters, or souvenirs. Don’t miss all of the fun at this year’s Winter Equestrian Festival! Find out more at www.PBIEC.com.

An event that has changed Palm Beach County since is inception in 2010, The Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments®, will be featured on Saturday, February 6. The exciting pro-am show jumping event has raised more than $7.5 million for over 100 Palm Beach County charities over the past six years, becoming the largest single day net charitable event in the state of Florida. In addition to Saturday night fun, WEF features grand prix competition on several Sunday afternoons throughout the circuit. Week one kicks off with a $75,000 National Grand Prix in the International Ring at PBIEC on Sunday, January 17. Week four hosts the $216,000 Ariat CSI 4* Grand Prix on the grass derby ﬁeld at The Stadium at PBIEC on Sunday, February 7. Week eight hosts a $200,000 CSIO 4* Grand Prix, presented by Lugano Diamonds, on Sunday, March 6, in the International Ring. www.EliteEquestrian.us

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Maria Taylor, Realtor

Equestrian Property Specialist Providing quality real estate services to buyers and sellers “Let me put my real estate and equestrian experience to work for you!” 6319 Lower York Road New Hope, Pa 18938

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Part of the renowned Fashion Farms properties, the farm is a compound consisting of a spacious Cape Cod house with long distance views, a caretaker/guest apartment, the main barn, three additional Morton buildings and numerous run in sheds. The 98 acres of beautiful, fenced rolling pastures and open lawns has the potential for subdivision and allows for the building of one additional house, either on the existing parcel or on sub-divided land. $3,495,000

Windy Bush Road Manor House Exquisite, steeped in history dating to the original William Penn land grant, with three exceptional homes, this 193 acre working horse farm, located in Solebury Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is the epitome of a distinguished estate for gracious living and entertaining and for an equestrian or agricultural business. With spectacular, panoramic long distance views and surrounded by beautiful natural features, including two picturesque ponds, this is one of the area’s most prestigious estates. It is an extraordinary compound of homes and outbuildings in an incomparable setting. The epitome of a gracious country estate, the most discerning buyer will recognize its unique possibilities and the joys of its ownership. Proudly Offered at $10,000,000.

Pineville Road, Reproduction Manor House The magniﬁcent reproduction Manor Home is the centerpiece of this ﬁne equestrian property.

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This 15-room Colonial boasts over 5200 square feet of sunﬁlled living spaces on three levels. The gracious ﬂoor plan invites entertaining - whether a small, intimate gathering or a grand event - yet it radiates warmth and comfort for family living. Proudly Offered at $6,000,000.

Visit my website for more property info, photos and Virtual Tours! www.HomesByMariaTaylor.com Need local equestrian resources? Maria can help with that too! Anything equestrian related... local barns, tack stores, trainers, vets, farriers, etc! www.EliteEquestrian.us

dequan® Global Dressage Festival Brings the World’s Best to Wellington

Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP), management company of the world-renowned Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), is also the name behind the now equally prominent AGDF. The two international equestrian circuits are held concurrently in the South Florida village of Wellington, known to many as the “Winter Equestrian Capital of the World.” While hunter/jumper competition takes main stage on the north show grounds at PBIEC, dressage is principal on the adjacent grounds at The Stadium at PBIEC.

2016 Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Finals, held at the end of March in Gothenburg, Sweden.

With the help of Adequan®, who stepped up to become the show’s title sponsor in 2013, the AGDF has developed into one of the world’s top international dressage circuits. It has also become the heart of dressage in Wellington.

Many of the best horses and riders in the world will compete in AGDF’s CDI 5* week February 11-14, which features the highest possible international rating in dressage.

In 2016, the AGDF will host seven CDI, or internationally rated, events in the season, along with two national-level shows and two Para-Equestrian shows. As the competition continues to grow and interest increases with every year, more top international riders attend the event each season. This year, AGDF looks forward to its best circuit yet.

The Palm Beach Dressage Derby, a historic South Florida dressage competition, returns on March 3-6 as the last FEI World Cup qualiﬁer in North America before the Finals. The ﬁnal two weeks of competition feature a CDI 4* on March 17-20 as well the CDIO 3* FEI Nations Cup, to conclude the circuit on March 30-April 2.

Thanks to presenting sponsors Mission Control, Mane Stream, courtesy of Rowan O’Riley, Adequan®, and Nutrena, the 2016 AGDF will also host an expanded CPEDI 3* Para-Equestrian Dressage Tour this season. Para-Equestrian Dressage kicks off the circuit in January with a $10,000 CPEDI on January 7-10. Competitors will also have the opportunity to show in a $10,000 CPEDI Team Event on January 21-24. The shows will include FEI Para-Equestrian Dressage athletes in Grades Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV.

The ﬁnale of the season, Wellington’s CDIO 3* remains the only Nations Cup competition for dressage in the Western Hemisphere outside of championship events and is part of the FEI Nations Cup series. Each year, more international riders make the journey to compete in the coveted event. Especially in a championship year, as competitors gear up for the summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, riders will be looking to compete at their best against many other nations. Horses and riders from Central and South America, as well as North America and Europe will all compete for important team and individual experience.

The international season begins with two World Cup qualifying events, where riders will earn points to compete at the

One of the special events that take place each week of international competition at AGDF is the “Friday Night

The ﬁrst international event on January 14-17 has been named the Lloyd Landkamer Memorial CDI-W in memory of AGDF show manager Lloyd Landkamer, who passed away in September after a battle with cancer.

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�� Stars” FEI Grand Prix Musical Freestyle. The evening is a highlight for riders and spectators alike, as international competitors show their FEI Grand Prix musical freestyles under the lights in a fun evening of dressage and entertainment. Special musical acts, such a string quartet or the Yale a capella singing group, are featured in between amazing dressage performances. While international-level riders are a big draw, the AGDF also hosts competition for horses and riders of varying experience. The CDI Amateur division, introduced last year, was a big success and returns in 2016. Even more classes for juniors, young riders, ponies, and young horses are on offer and make the circuit one to which any rider can aspire. To ﬁnd out more about AGDF and for a full schedule, please visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

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Palm Partnership Training™ Building a Partnership with your Horse

Western Dressage: Practice Tips as You Prepare to Advance to the Next Level by Lynn Palm

Now that you’ve gotten into Western Dressage, you’re eager to do well. But what are the best ways to improve your horse at his current level and move on to advance to the next level? As you ride each day, make a plan before you get in the saddle. You are teaching your horse every time you work with him, whether you are taking an actual lesson or not. Be sure he’s learning something positive! For starters, get your horse totally warmed up before attempting more complex maneuvers. I follow these “Golden Rules” for warm up: 1. Change directions often for lateral suppleness of your horse. 2. The working trot is the best gait for warming up. You should post to help your own body prepare and warm up. 3. Do transitions often for the longitudinal suppleness of your horse. This also helps build strength and flexibility in your horse. 4. Do some simple lateral training to loosen up your horse. Now that you’re ready to work, here are some suggestions to help you accomplish your goals: 1. Have a plan of what you want to work on and follow it. Use the level/test you are presently working on to formulate your plan. 2. Each lesson, use a figure to work on. Practice transitions before and after the figure that are in your level/test. 3. Review the score sheet from the judge(s) at you last show and practice a tip. 4. Always work short segments. Recognize where you have a weakness in the training figure or transition. Improve your horse through your position/aids before you practice the weak areas. Remember to perfect your accuracy of the figure or transition. 5. Have someone video you as you practice so you can see if you are making progress. This allows you to recognize and review the action and timing of your aids.

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6. Review your training figure and transitions. Work last on the straightness of the turn, straight line or upward or downward transition that you had in your lesson goal. 7. If you need help with a transition, use a curving line. 8. Try to improve the figure work on the size of the curve or the straight line at a different spot from where you have done your training figure. 9. Use maneuvers such as turn on the forehand, yielding at walk, turn on haunches as “cool down” maneuvers from trot and canter work. This will keep your horse’s concentration and help him remain more interested and responding to your aids.

teach rider skills and the training/developing of your horse. If you can’t master a task, ﬁnd a similar movement in the easier level/test a similar movement and work on perfecting it. This will help you advance. Everything is in print, so use the tests for your homework as you practice at home or with your instructor.

We all want to advance to the next level, but how do you know you’re ready? There are several ways to know: 1. Your scores improve from competition to competition. 2. Riding the test gets easier and easier. 3. Even though the hardest maneuver in the test is still challenging, all the others go well. 4. As you advance to a new test and still have one, maybe two, tasks that are challenging, when you go back to the easier test, you will find that it will improve more. The more difficult test sets your horse up to improve the easier test. 5. Ask your coach/instructor to confirm your desire to advance in your level/tests. 6. Have someone video you at a show or at home doing the whole test. Watching the test ridden in its entirety should help you realize if you’re ready to advance or not.

We love to share our dressage backgrounds and knowledge with you and would love to have you come ride with us. You can join us at our farm in Ocala, Florida, or at one of our Ride Well Clinics on our USA Tour at a location near you.

The best part of advancing your tests is that if you fail, or the more advanced new movements in the harder test are not going well, you can always go back to the easier test. Don’t get discouraged! I recommend giving yourself at least one to three months with a new test to decide if you are advancing at the new level, or if you need to go back to the easier one and perfect it even more. One of the best things about dressage—whether English or Western—is that the levels and tests are the perfect progression to

Make it a point to learn and understand how and why you are doing each component of a test. Take your time. Getting in a hurry will only set you back and cause frustration. There is no rule saying how far you have to advance; if you stay at a certain level for your riding career, that is okay.

If you would like to train with Lynn & Cyril at home with Western Dressage, take advantage of the following supportive training materials: Books:

DVDs:

• 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

For more information on these training materials and more, as well as clinics, please visit www.lynnpalm.com or call us at 800-503-2824.

www.EliteEquestrian.us

TRAINING Ariana Rockefeller SHOWING ABOUT HORSEMANSHIP AND COMPETITION ��

When did you begin riding horses, and why? My family always had horses. From the time I was born we had family horses, they were part of our life. It was my mother’s life and it became part of my sister’s life and mine. I cannot remember a time when we did not have horses. I am happy to say that. What inspired you to love horses? My mother. What is your ﬁrst thought when a horse, that is loose, walks up to you? I want to see him, if it is a known horse. If it is not, I want to ﬁnd out what his personality is. I am always cautious when I meet a new horse, but if it is one I know I almost think it is like a

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family member coming up to say hello, and I know he is probably looking for a treat. Is your passion something you could give up? Absolutely never! I think if I was not able for some reason to have horses, I would always find a way to be around horses. In your life, is your passion coexisting with your responsibilities? It is! I am lucky, I found a way to make it work with my business. If you really want something you find ways. Obligations family, you just carve out time and make it work. What do you love about horses? I love how big their hearts are. They are amazingly sensitive and they try hard for you. I love their spirit. You constantly have to get out of your head and get into theirs. …And about the equestrian disciplines? The most important thing is the relationship, the horse is a dance partner! Is your family of origin passionate about horses? Definitely, it has always been! Do you think relationship, feel, or understanding horses are concepts that matter in riding or in competition? I put my horse first, and his well being. You have to see what makes sense and the bottom line is that the horse has priority. The vast majority of riders are women, while in the past riding was a man’s sport. Why do you think this shift happened? The reason is cultural; it is more of a feminine thing especially in American society. The best rider is Scott brash, so the top ones are still man. I have not really thought about it. What do you think is the main difference between the relationship that man and woman have with horses? I think that both have a special relationship, women can be intuitive and emotional, but I can’t generalize. Men tend to be stronger and put more physical power.

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What do you think is the main difference between the relationship that man and woman have with horses? I think that both have a special relationship, women can be intuitive and emotional, but I can’t generalize. Men tend to be stronger and put more physical power. Can you tell me who was someone that inspired you, or a story about your favorite mentor? I started to ride again with frank Madden, he is such an icon, it was amazing working with him and it got me to the next level. It is a very intimate relationship with a trainer, and it has been critical in my equestrian career. Now that I have asked you some precise questions, can you tell me what you would like me to know about the relationship between you and your horse? My relationships with horses are different, my Irish horse is adorable, very sensitive and I have to really tune into him . It is really critical when I am with him that I do so, and he taught me so much about responsibility. They are so much stronger than us, but we still need to be their leader. They want you to be able to take charge and it is amazing when that happens. The most important thing is to make decisions. How can you tell a horse is at ease? His top line is slightly rounded and relaxed while warming up, he is accepting the bit and moving from his hind end. His ears are forward, but listening. My horse takes a moment to warm up in the schooling ring, and then he gets going and his muscles start loosening up, he will let out a breath and I know he is feeling secure. How can you tell a horse trusts you? My 7 years old Dutch-Warmblood, for example, will peak at different things, either in the ring or out on the trails, he trusts my voice telling him its if something makes him suspicious, and I just keep a little leg on always, to reassure him that its okay to keep moving forward. How can you tell a horse respects you? He is responding to the aids and carrying himself nicely under saddle. How can you tell a horse listens to you? His ears will ﬂick back and forth when I am working with him, meaning he wants to follow my direction. How do you get a horse’s attention? When I am riding, I usually give him a pat and use a little leg pressure with a loose rein to get his focus when I ﬁrst begin our warm up together. I like my horse to stretch ouy his neck before asking him to collect, and focus on carrying himself. It’s a good way to get them comfortable and also focused for productive work.

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Equestrian Aid Foundation Vows Assistance “ … to have an to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, ‘til death do us part … “ These famous words ring in our ears of great promise and good years ahead. It’s difﬁcult, however, to live life without a few bumps along the way. It’s during these moments of marriage that this vow truly becomes sacred. Nancy Wight – the wife of an Equestrian Aid Foundation recipient – the bond that has taken them through good and bad is evident. “In our many years of marriage, Loren and I have certainly experienced for better and for worse; this isn’t the worst; this is just very hard.”

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Loren and Nancy Wight own breathtakingly beautiful Rockin Heart Farm (www.rockinheart.com) in Potlach, Idaho. At the ranch they breed, raise, train and show Eqyptian Arabian horses, as well as Eqyptian Pharoah Hounds and the smaller Cirneco dell’Etna Hounds. It is a daily struggle after Loren’s crush injury, but the Wights persevere the ranch with dignity and grace.

Seven years ago, while Loren was teaching a helper how to operate the tractor, it lurched forward and knocked Loren down – running over the lower portion of both of his legs and feet. Loren was trapped under the tractor’s giant rear wheel and the only way to get him out was to back over him again.

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Loren suffered a catastrophic crush injury and in the resultant fall, he sustained a head injury as well. In an unsuspecting moment, everything changed. Conﬁned to a wheel chair and undergoing extensive rehabilitative therapies, the fate of his lower right leg still remains uncertain and may require amputation at the ankle. Loren has become legally blind as well and remains philosophical about his injury, “there is a reason the good Lord decided to spare me; I still have much I need to accomplish in this life..” Loren and Nancy, who have committed their lives to giving and helping others, are learning how to be on the receiving end. “I don’t know how, but I vow to give back to the Equestrian Aid Foundation once we get through this little bit of tough times,” Nancy declares. The Equestrian Aid Foundation provides grant-based assistance to horsemen and equine-related professionals suffering from illness or catastrophic injuries. The EAF is dedicated to helping people of all ages and from all backgrounds and disciplines, offering funding for medical, rehabilitation and essential expenses. The EAF assists horse people who all have a story like the Wights, who never had to ask for ﬁnancial help. Even during the hardest of economic times, there are those that need help.

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Real Estate Made Easy Realtor and lifelong horsewoman residing in Ocala for 35 years.

Jan. 9-10, 2016: Equiventures Horse Trial Jan. 10, 2016: 2nd Annual Sho’n Go Dog Event Jan. 15-17, 2016: Clint Anderson Down Under Horsemanship Jan. 16-17, 2016: Southern Obstacle Challenge Association (SOCA) Jan. 16-17, 2016: Sunshine State Jack Russell Terrier Club Jan. 24, 2016: STRIDE English, Western & Driving Dressage Jan. 24-31, 2016: Sunshine State CDE Jan. 29-30, 2016: Josie Clinic Feb. 1-8, 2016: Ocala RV Show Feb. 6-7, 2016: Jubilee Dressage February 12-14, 2016: Equiventures 3-Day Event February 13, 2016: Racing for the Ca$h February 14, 2016: TNT Dogs February 15, 2016: Sunshine Region Pony Club February 27, 2016: Blacklight Bubble Party March 4-6, 2016: Florida High School Rodeo March 6, 2016: STRIDE English, Western & Driving Dressage March 11-13, 2016: Sean Patrick Training March 13, 2016: TNT Dogs March 14-20, 2016: Kingdom of the Sun March 25-27, 2016: Florida Reining Horse Asso. March 26-27, 2016: Partners of the Park (POPs)

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Continued from page 77 Open year round you don’t have to wait for an ACTHA event to come, stay, play and ride at Lanier Islands. This all inclusive resort is open to the horse community for camping from Labor Day through May. While the trails are open year-round, camping for horse riders is limited from Memorial Day to Labor Day because of the general vacationing public. But no worries, if you can’t camp you can stay at one of the 6 Villas, 30 Lake Houses or the Lodge in the summer months, enjoy all the amenities and trail ride while your horse is enjoying his own vacation at the Stables at Lanier Islands. For information on the ACTHA event at Lanier Islands please visit www.actha.us/events. ��

Announcing Deni Buetow Your Ocala ConnectionHelping you ﬁnd a home for you and your horses!

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OCALA, FLORIDA

Valobra Master Jewelers Hosts Holiday Party Dec. 1 for Pin Oak Charity Horse Show Supporters and Unveils “Crown Jewel” Custom Pearl Necklace to Auction for Children’s Charities of Pin Oak. Valobra Master Jewelers has continued its tradition of generosity by hosting yet another festive, fun and memorable holiday party on Dec. 1 at its Highland Village location in Houston. Approximately 50 Pin Oak Charity Horse Show supporters, media representatives and Valobra patrons attended the party where Franco Valobra personally unveiled the “Crown Jewel” custom made pearl necklace that Valobra Master Jewelers has donated for an auction beneﬁtting the children’s charities of Pin Oak.

SADDLEBROOK EQUESTRIAN PARK Gated entry convenient to I-75, shopping, airport, OBS. 28+/- manicured acres. 16 stalls in two barns. 3 board, no climb fencing, run-in paddocks. Immaculate, 3 bedroom,3 bath home, 2 ofﬁces. Custom Hickory cabinets, granite & top appliances in kitchen. Oversized garage. Salt water pool & spa, solar heated. 70x200 dressage arena, viewing stand, 1/1.5 barn apt. Equip. storage. Bridal paths. Beautiful views, professional landscaping, paved drives, gated entries. $1,350,000.00

Valobra hosted the 2015 holiday event to encourage support for �� the 71st Annual Pin Oak Charity Horse Show presented by Irish Day Farm. The horse show runs March 22-April 3, 2016, at The Great Southwest Equestrian Center in the Houston suburb of Katy. Valobra is a major sponsor of Pin Oak’s $30,000 United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) International Hunter Derby and Ladies’ Hatter Derby. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. on Friday, April 1.

JUST LISTED IN DUNNELLON – Beautiful 10 acres mini-farm featuring 3/2 doublewide, spacious open ﬂoor plan, cathedral ceilings, nice master bath. 2 spacious fenced paddocks, 4 stall barn, RV hook-up, Carport, several outbuildings with full electric, great location, new A/C, paved driveway and much more. Must see to appreciate all this farm has to offer. Don’t miss out on this unique property... it won’t be available long at $229,000.00. Call Tammy Gaylord, realtor 352-634-1202

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Franco displayed the exquisite pearl necklace to a standing room only showroom. The necklace is made of two strands of 10 mm to 11 mm pearls with an 18 kt. yellow gold tassel featuring a 10.06 carats gem quality blue topaz, surrounded by 3.36 carats gem quality pink tourmalines and 11.63 carats of gem quality citrines. Valobra Master Jewelers’ 2016 contribution to Pin Oak includes, but is not limited to, this custom pearl necklace, a Rolex watch, 60 cases of ﬁne wines, special event hosting, and ﬁnancial support. New and long-standing Pin Oak supporters have the opportunity to bid on the Crown Jewel, the Rolex watch and other specialty items by accessing www.biddingforgood.com/POCHS. Bidding is open now through April 2nd.

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Valobra Master Jeweler and party guests also generously donated $3,500 to Texas Children’s Hospital’s popular “Ten for Teens Program”, which funds gift cards for teenaged patients after they complete major treatments or achieve major wellness milestones.

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November/December 2015

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