The Oaks of Lake City A Sponsor For Holiday With Horses Show at Canterbury

Lake City, FL The Oaks of Lake City Equestrian Center joined in the holiday spirit recently when they helped sponsor the Holiday With Horses show held at the Canterbury Showplace in Newberry. The equine and canine show was a great way for The Oaks to give back to the community, as the show supported the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association and Horses for Heroes program.

 

The Holiday With Horses show featured a live entertainment program complete with a wide variety of equestrian acts such as drill teams, colorful carriages, trick riding, the Knights of Medieval Times and an exhibition of breeds. The show spread holiday cheer by benefiting therapeutic riding and the Horses for the Heroes program, a nationwide program for wounded veterans sponsored by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.

 

The Oaks of Lake City was pleased to sponsor the show as part of their on going efforts to support the equestrian community. Located in Northern Florida, The Oaks of Lake City is home to the very first O'Connor Signature equestrian facility. Olympians David and Karen O'Connor have teamed up with Equestrian Services, LLC to develop branded signature properties devoted to the equestrian lifestyle. Fashioned after the concept of signature golf course communities, The Oaks of Lake City was developed for homeowners seeking the active equestrian lifestyle.

The Oaks of Lake City upholds the exacting and high standards David and Karen O'Connor and their partners, Equestrian Services, LLC, envisioned. The development offers homeowners access to a world-class equestrian facility with stellar management. A pristine 33-stall barn, a 122' x 225' covered arena with world class footing, a 60-foot covered round pen, 15 miles of looped trails, and the O'Connor designed cross-country jumping course are just a few highlights of this first-of-its-kind equestrian community.

The Oaks provides the opportunity for homeowners to board their horses at the central facility or build a facility on their own property and still take advantage of the amenities at the community equestrian facility. For more information about The Oaks of Lake City visit their website atwww.theoakslakecity.com.

Kassidy Peacock Wins The Paddock Saddlery 2008 USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year Award

San Antonio, TX – Thanks to her dedication, and over 100 hours of volunteer hours, 14-year-old Kassidy Peacock has been named the 2008 USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year. The award is presented by The Paddock Saddlery and sponsored by the USDF Youth Executive Board.

Peacock, of San Antonio, Texas, earned the prestigious award which is presented to one outstanding youth volunteer who has contributed on a national and local basis to the USDF and dressage. Peacock, a member of the Houston Dressage Society, has been riding since she was four years old. During 2008, Peacock found herself without a horse, but because she loves the sport of dressage she was eager to stay involved so she volunteered.

Kassidy volunteered a total of 111 hours at numerous events, including the 2008 USDF/Platinum Performance North American Junior and Young Riders' Dressage Championships, The Houston Dressage Society Spring and Summer Shows, The Alamo Dressage Association's Spring Shows I and II, the Stephen Clarke/Linda Zang Symposium sponsored by the Houston Dressage Society, and the 2008 Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Festival of Champions.

"We were happy to recognize Kassidy for her volunteering contributions," said Lisa Gorretta, owner of The Paddock Saddlery. "I am sure Kassidy will be a leader in the sport for years to come."

As the recipient of this award, Peacock's name will be engraved on a perpetual trophy housed in the Roemer Foundation/USDF Hall of Fame, which was donated by the Akin family of Warwick, NY, in honor of Lendon Gray. She will also receive a $500 scholarship provided from funds raised through the Youth Executive Board Silent Auction held annually at the Adequan/USDF Annual Convention, and a $250 gift certificate donated by The Paddock Saddlery.


The gift certificate to The Paddock Saddlery will come in handy, as Peacock recently became the proud owner of a Dutch Warmblood named Persona Grata. Peacock trains with Richard Howard of Reiterhof in Austin, Texas.

Peacock said her hours of volunteering opened her eyes to the fact that she wants dressage to be an integral part of her life. Her first goal is to try out for the Junior/Young Rider Team and someday she hopes to train in Europe. Her long-term goals include becoming an equine veterinarian.

As the owner of The Paddock Saddlery, and a dedicated volunteer herself, Gorretta was pleased to sponsor the Youth Award. Gorretta has served the USDF on local, regional and national levels and currently serves on the USEF Dressage Committee.

The Paddock Saddlery caters to the needs of English riders, from tack and clothing to saddle fitting. The Paddock Saddlery merged with A'Dashi, a popular dressage fashion boutique, and together they provide equestrians with the finest in couture and functional riding wear.

For more information on The Paddock Saddlery, visit their website at www.paddocksaddlery.com.

American Shetland Pony Club DonatesPony To Black Stallion Literacy Foundation

Orlando, FL - A black Shetland Pony who closely resembles the pony Little Black in the Walter Farley book "Little Black, A Pony" has a new home with the Black Stallion Literacy Foundation at Arabian Nights in Orlando, Florida. Thanks to the donation of the pony by the American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC), thousands of children involved in the literacy program will have the chance to meet Little Black in person.

 

The Black Stallion Literacy Foundation has helped motivate hundreds of thousands of children to enjoy reading by connecting the magic of live horses with a classic hardcover book. The Foundation, named after "The Black Stallion" books by Walter Farley, was co-founded in 1999 by Mark Miller, owner of Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in Orlando, Florida, and Walter Farley's son Tim Farley, with the idea that Arabian Nights and the Black Stallion could inspire children to stay interested in reading and have more successful lives.

 

"The Black Stallion Literacy Program is amazing. It really moved me to see how the kids reacted to meeting live ponies and horses," said Johnny Robb, Marketing Director for the ASPC, who was on hand at Arabian Nights for the delivery of the new Shetland. "I am really pleased that the American Shetland Pony Club was able to donate a Shetland Pony to the literacy foundation. The pony looks just like Little Black and he will have a positive impact on so many children because after they meet him they will definitely want to read the book about him."

 

Formerly named Brush Creek's Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois. Becker is pleased that one of his ponies is an ambassador for the Shetland Pony breed. "I had been to the Arabian Nights show and really enjoyed it," Becker said. "Knowing that the pony is going to benefit the kids, and that he is getting a great home, made me happy to have the opportunity to donate a pony."

 

The pony, who the kids and trainers at Arabian Nights now call Little Black, is jet black just like the pony in the book. "His dad's name is Black Magic and his mom is also black, so it is no accident that he is black," Becker said, adding, "I've always been partial to black ponies."

 

Through the literacy foundation, first graders are given the book "Little Black, A Pony" when their school takes part in the program. The trainers at Arabian Nights then take the two horses from the book, Little Black and Big Red, to the school so the children can have an up-close and personal experience with the horses they are reading about. "The program that goes to the school is called the First Touch program and it really gets the kids to connect to what they are reading about," said Tim Henderson, President of The Black Stallion Literacy Foundation.

 

The Black Stallion Literacy Foundation has additional programs, including a Fourth Grade program in which students experience a live equine theater performance at Arabian Nights. The fourth graders are treated to a special appearance by Walter Farley's Black Stallion, but that doesn't mean they ever forget their first experience of meeting Little Black. Thanks to the American Shetland Pony Club, and a cute little black American Shetland Pony, the story of Little Black will live on for years to come.

 

For more information about The Black Stallion Literacy Foundation, including volunteering for the program, visit their website at www.bslp.org. For more information on American Shetland Ponies, visit www.shetlandminature.com.

Horses are not just for Christmas. Or Riding?

How one Woman’s Search for the Truth Heralds a New Dawn in Horse Consciousness 

A new DVD and Teleseminar Series look at how we are treating horses today and discover that perhaps we are not as enlightened as we think we are. The truth is not always easy to accept but the result of one woman’s efforts challenge us to make a change. 

 

http://www.thepathofthehorse.com - Change is today’s buzz-word thanks to Barack Obama and when documentary film maker Stormy May took a long, hard look at today’s horse world, she found that it flatters to deceive and is itself a prime candidate for change. After years of training horses, giving riding lessons and judging competitions, she realized that she and many others had gone off course. What had happened to the beauty, majesty and freedom of horses she had dreamt of as a child? Disillusioned and in need of answers, she sold her ranch, packed her cameras and set out on a journey of self-discovery around the world to find the truth. 

What she discovered was at times quite shocking. She realized that the abuse handed out daily to horses is openly allowed and even encouraged. Had the values of our society become so out of alignment that this sort of behavior is considered normal? 

She knew there had to be better, more compassionate ways of handling horses. There had to be people out there trailblazing the way to a new era in horsemanship. What indeed could we learn from the horses themselves and their society? 

On her journey to discover these answers, she met enlightened horse people:

• Alexander Nevzorov from Russia - whose masterful work has led to the discovery of how to educate horses without bits, bridles or punishment
• Klaus Ferdinand Hempfling - a German living in Denmark who teaches people to recognize the essential within themselves and the horses they work with
• Linda Kohanov - a pioneer in equine assisted learning and therapy
• Carolyn Resnick - a woman who learnt the equine code and found the secrets of acceptance into a herd of wild horses
• Mark Rashid - a Colorado cowboy, popular author and clinician
• Kim McElroy - visionary equine artist

 

The result is the documentary DVD “The Path of the Horse”, an exposé of the horse world from an insider’s perspective, which has just been released to great acclaim. It is to the equine world what the blockbusting DVD “The Secret” is to metaphysics and self-development. 

January sees the start of the “The Path of the Horse Teleseminar Series”. Subtitled “Learn from today’s visionaries and teachers”, this series of 5 weekly, teleconference calls looks at the new paradigm in horsemanship and discusses the issues and solutions involved. 

Never before have such noted horsemen and women from around the world been brought together. This is a rare opportunity for people to put their questions to today's thought leaders and visionaries in the horse world. For more information, to sign up for the Series and to ask a question, visit: http://www.thepathofthehorse.com 
 

“They've carried us around on their backs for centuries, waiting for us to notice that they aren't here just to help us evolve in terms of mastering nature and moving around the planet. They're actually waiting for us to get to the point where we're ready to evolve to a higher level of consciousness and awareness.” Linda Kohanov 
 

For additional information on the DVD and Series or to schedule an interview with any of the speakers, please contact Mark Mottershead via email (see below). The DVD and MP3 recordings of the series can also be purchased from the website. 
 

CONTACT:

Mark Mottershead, producer The Path of the Horse Teleseminar Series

Tel: +49 240 679762  (GMT+1)

Cell: +49 1777 096209 (GMT+1)

info@thepathofthehorse.com

http://www.thepathofthehorse.com

USEF Announces 2009 Developing Rider List for Eventing

By Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) has named the 2009 Developing Rider List for Eventing.

The following riders and horses have been named to the list:

Rider/Age/Hometown/Horse, Owner

Madeline Blackman/18/Ringoes, NJ/Gordonstown, Owned by Madeline Blackman

Jennie Brannigan/21/San Diego, CA/Cooper, Owned by Jennie Brannigan

Tiana Coudray/21/Ojai, CA/Ringwood Magister, Owned by Tiana Coudray and Jatial Inc.

Sinead Halpin/28/Irmo, SC/Manior de Carneville, Owned by Carraig LLC

Alexis Helffrich/27/Pleasonton, CA/Leyasta, Owned by Sarah Vernlund

Callie Judy/16/Columbia, MO/Call On Me, Owned by The Heartland GK

Megan Lanzarone/25/Georgetown, KY, Owned by Megan Lanzarone

Lauren Kieffer/21/Middleburg, VA/Snooze Alarm, Owned by Jo Kieffer

*Boyd Martin/29/West Grove, PA/Neville Bardos, Owned by Windurra USA LLC

Elinor MacPhail/17/Johnstown, OH/Woodstock, Owned by Elinor MacPhail

Molly Rosin/29/Elkton, MD/Havarah’s Charly, Owned by Minyan Sindicate

Karen Shull/19/Bryan, TX/ Just My Style, Owned by Karen Shull

Tory Smith/21/Camarillo, CA/Bantry Bay V, Owned by Tory Smith

Anisa Tracy/19/Parker, CO/ Tigger VIII, Owned by Tracy Resources, Inc.

Kendyl Tracy/16/Parker, CO/Mr. Incredible, Owned by Tracy Resources, Inc.

Arden Wildasin/15/Greenwich, CT/Jos Ambition, Owned by Arden Wildasin

*Pending change of nationality confirmation

The US Chef d’Equipe and Technical Advisor for Eventing, Captain Mark Phillips, will coach the Developing Riders in 2009. These 16 athletes will be invited to participate in training sessions. The training sessions will be used to identify the most promising up-and-coming riders in the US. Following the training sessions, this limited group will continue to receive assistance from Capt. Phillips.

The riders on the Developing Rider List were selected differently in 2009. This year ‘Talent Spotters’ (Derek di Grazia, Phillip Dutton, Becky Holder, Mike Huber, Kerry Milliken, Karen O’Connor, Mark Phillips, Kim Severson, and Amy Tryon) reviewed 47 applications and nominations for the Developing Rider program.

Athletes were placed on the list in one of two ways: 1. Athletes could submit an application or 2. Athletes were nominated through the talent spotter program created this fall by the Eventing High Performance Committee.

Dates and locations of the training sessions are still being finalized.

Any questions regarding the 2009 Developing Rider Program can be directed to Sara Ike at sara.ike@usef.org.

Volunteers and DNR help protect Reiter Foothills

Reiter Foothills, located in eastern Snohomish County, has long been a popular recreation area. The 10,000-acre area attracts a diverse range of users including off-road enthusiasts, campers, hikers, mountain bikers, and hunters. The southern portion, in particular, has become increasingly popular over the years for motorized use.

Reiter is so popular that certain locations have become overused, and some streams and stream corridors have experienced environmental damage from off-trail riding and the large numbers of riders using the area.

The Washington Departments of Natural Resources (DNR), Ecology, and Fish and Wildlife, and the Tulalip Tribes are working on some interim projects to protect the area from further damage to its resources. These interim measures will help address water quality problems until the Reiter Foothills recreation advisory group completes its final recommendations and DNR determines the best course of action for the long term. (For more information about recreation planning for Reiter Foothills, visit: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/Topics/RecreationPlanning/Pages/amp_rec_reiter_foothills.aspx)
Volunteers have played an important role in restoring Reiter Foothills. In the past few months, DNR staff have worked with volunteers from groups such as the Northwest Quad Association, the Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association, and Reiter Trail Watch to complete on-the-ground projects that:

· Protect water quality by keeping sediment from flowing into streams.
· Protect wetlands and fish habitat.
· Clean up and prevent litter.

Volunteers and DNR staff have already completed the following projects:
· Hardening the Deer Creek crossing.
· Conducting weekend cleanups of the area.
· Repairing fencing and eliminating motorized access around Reiter Pond to protect the area.

The next planned work will involve placing ecology blocks to control access to sensitive areas along Reiter Road and near Reiter Pond where a significant amount of garbage dumping is occurring. We expect this work to be completed by mid-January. View a map of the barrier installation project at: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/em_reiter_foothills_barrier_installation.pdf

Please note that primary off-road vehicle routes currently being used will remain open.

The work going on at Reiter is a great example of how volunteers are helping to make a difference on DNR-managed lands. If you'd like to help by volunteering your time, equipment, or materials for upcoming work projects in the Reiter area, contact David Way at 360-854-2830 or david.way@dnr.wa.gov.

DNR recently put out a press release about the work going in Reiter at: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/RecreationEducation/News/Pages/nr08_217.aspx
For more information about Reiter Foothills, contact Candace Johnson at 360-854-2803 or reiterfoothills@dnr.wa.gov.

Sponsorships Improve 2009 $20,000 TCH Fox Chase Show Series, Preserve Equine History in Hunt Country

Middleburg, VA - December 30, 2008 - Fox Chase Farm in Middleburg, VA, will soon play host to the Timothy C. Hanley Memorial Fox Chase Show Series, an annual non-rated show series that starts on January 10, 2009. The series, which is the first non-rated series to be affiliated with the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA), offers two shows a month and continues through late September. Through the help of generous sponsors, the series offers top quality horse show conditions and $20,000 in prize money.

"We are very grateful to have such dedicated sponsors," said Maureen Hanley, Director of Operations of Fox Chase Farm, LLC. "Our show series cannot exist without sponsorship dollars. Their contributions allow us to improve our competitions and make our series the best non-rated show series in the area."

"In addition to helping our horse shows, sponsorship is also an investment in the preservation of our famous horse heritage," she stated. "Fox Chase Farm has a rich history in hunt country, and donations allow our farm to continue its presence while building on the past. Sponsorships also promote the future of our youth by helping them progress forward and achieve their goals in an affordable way."

Sponsors for the 2009 $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate TCH Fox Chase Show Series include: Middleburg Bank, Merrifield Garden Center, Carr & Hyde Insurance, Margaret Weinberg Design, SiteWhirks, Wegmans, Rainbow Child Development Center, Norden Insurance, Extreme Level, and My Suburban Oasis. Sponsoring the horse show series contributes to the quality of competition and also provides exposure for businesses in the Middleburg area.

Hanley added, "Show sponsorships provide donors with a unique advertising opportunity; our show series offers businesses the potential to reach new customers repeatedly over a period of 12 months."

In addition to sponsorship opportunities, the farm provides free online classifieds for local equestrians and businesses in the area. This free service is available on the farm's website. Members of the equestrian community can buy and sell horses and ponies, tack, farm equipment, cars, trucks, trailers, and post Help Wanted ads.

To advertise for free on the Fox Chase Farm website, please go to www.foxchasefarm.net and click on "Free Online Classifieds."

To learn more about sponsorships at Fox Chase Farm, please go to www.foxchasefarm.net or call Maureen Hanley at 540-687-5255. Diane Lunsford is also available at 703-618-9992.

2009 $20,000 TCH FOX CHASE SHOW SERIES FAST FACTS

Event:
2009 $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate TCH Fox Chase Show Series

What:
The TCH Fox Chase Show Series offers an annual non-rated show circuit for talented, local equestrians. The farm hosts two shows a month, and competitions continue throughout the year until late September, with year-end awards and $20,000 in prize money presented at the series' annual year-end party.

Where:
Fox Chase Farm in Middleburg, VA. A horse show, clinic and event facility that is conveniently located in the heart of hunt country.

When:
January 10: Fox Chase Farm Kick-Off Horse Show, the first show of the 2009 $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Fox Chase Farm Horse Show Series. This show will be held indoors.

January 24: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show, held indoors

February 14: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

February 28: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

March 7: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

March 21: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

April 11: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

April 25: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

May 9: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

May 23: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

May 31:$5,000 JUST JUMPERS MINI-PRIX featuring courses designed and built by Olympic Gold Medalist Joe Fargis

June 13: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

June 20: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

July 11: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

July 18: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

August 1: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

August 22: $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

September 7: $5,000 JUST JUMPERS MINI-PRIX featuring courses designed and built by Olympic Gold Medalist Joe Fargis

September 12: Final Horse Show $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Horse Show

September 26: Final Pony Show $20,000 USHJA/VHSA Associate Pony Show

Hours:
8am - 5pm daily

Admission:
Admission is free to the public.

Parking:
Parking is free to the public.

Directions:
Fox Chase Farm is located on Route 50 between Middleburg and Aldie at 23323 Foxchase Farm Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117. Detailed directions are available online.

Website: www.foxchasefarm.net

Ring Dimensions/Specs:
Both show arenas were recently re-graded and reconstructed. The outdoor arena has new dust-free footing that becomes sponge-like when watered. The rings have competition standard lighting, and the facility has a state-of-the-art sound system with 16 speakers placed throughout the arenas and stabling.

The dimensions of the competition areas are as follows:

Indoor: 80' x 200'
Outdoor: 160' x 350'
Outdoor Schooling Arena: 165' x 130'

Facility Features:
*New All Weather frost-free waterers in paddocks
*New fenced board paddocks
*Security system with code at gate
*47 stall barn with attached indoor arena
*Weather-protected access to arena from stable for horses and riders
*Wash stall with hot/cold water and heat lamps
*Grooming stalls with heat lamps
*Gazebo, which comfortably accommodates up to 50 people for BBQs, outdoor receptions, and events
*Six stall owner's barn with hot/cold wash stalls and heat lamps, tack room and private bathroom and shower
*Cross-country course
*Individual tack lockers
*Private men's and women's changing rooms and showers
*Front office and lounge next to indoor arena with fireplaces, central heat and air-conditioning
*Newly remodeled men's and women's bathrooms with central heat and central air-conditioning
*Two bedroom/ two full bathroom cottage available for short term rent - equipped with kitchen and sitting area, perfect for visitors in town for foxhunting, showing, or just passing through Middleburg

Sponsors:
Middleburg Bank
Merrifield Garden Center
Carr & Hyde Insurance
Margaret Weinberg Design
SiteWhirks
Wegmans
Rainbow Child Development Center
Norden Insurance
Extreme Level
My Suburban Oasis

Sponsor Contacts:
Maureen Hanley 540-687-5255, Diane Lunsford 703-618-9992

Horse Show Photographer: Peggy Smith, http://www.peggyjsmith.com

Management:
Maureen Hanley, Director of Operations
Fox Chase Farm, LLC
P.O. Box 743
Middleburg, VA 20118
Email: foxchasefarm@verizon.net
website: www.foxchasefarm.net
Office: 540-687-5255
Fax: 540-687-3084

Pennfield Equine Feed Technologies Announced as the “Official Horse Feed of the United States Equestrian Federation”

By Stacey Meier

Lexington, KY— The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announces the new partnership with Pennfield Equine Feed Technologies as the “Official Horse Feed of the USEF.” Pennfield is a widely respected, family-owned feed company in Pennsylvania that has been serving the eastern seaboard states since 1919 and has partnered with Kentucky Equine Research (KER) for their unparalleled nutritional expertise since 1996. Known for using only the finest, most consistent feed ingredients and precise manufacturing techniques that ensure top quality "fixed formula" feeds, Pennfield has earned the trust of world-class trainers and competitors throughout the equine industry.

"Earning the respect of partners like KER and now USEF speaks volumes on what Pennfield Feed is all about," explains Jeff Katelan, national sales and marketing manager of Pennfield Country Life Products. "From day one, Pennfield has been a company that prides itself on always putting the horse first and on caring about the well-being of the horse as much as the riders do. It was our founding partner's mission almost a hundred years ago and it's still our mission today. So it's a great honor to be recognized as the ‘Official Horse Feed’ of an organization that values and protects the well-being of the riding community the way USEF is known to do."

In addition, Pennfield Equine Feed Technologies, KER and the USEF will be hosting an eight-city “That’s a Promise” East Coast tour. This event will bring equestrian fans together with Olympic riders to celebrate and explore the meaning of “promise”, which is “to develop the full power (potential) of yourself and your horses and living up to the promise (principle) that you make to your horses to care for them to the best of your ability.” The tour will kick off at the Wellington show grounds in February and will follow the competitive season northward up the coast.

Each “That’s a Promise” gala will feature the attendance of one or more top riders who rely on Pennfield to fuel their horses top efforts, including multi-Olympic medalists Phillip Dutton, Karen and David O’Connor and Bruce Davidson; U.S. Four-in-Hand Driving Champion Chester Weber; 2008 U.S. Dressage Team alternate Michael Barisone; and other top riders. Attendees will be able to mingle with these riders in a relaxed setting, obtain autographs and help support the USEF Young Riders program by bidding on unique silent auction items donated by USEF and others in the riding community.

All are welcome to attend, though seating will be limited to approximately 200, depending on venue. Reservations may be made by calling Beth Ann Parise at 717-295-8735 and more information may be found atwww.thatsapromisetour.com. A $10 donation is requested per attendee, with 100% forwarded to the North American Junior and Young Rider program.

Chris Cox D-Ring Snaffle Features Unique Design

(Mineral Wells, TX, December 29, 2008---)Whether you’re building a house or riding a horse, using the right tools makes any task easier. Two-time Road to the Horse Champion Chris Cox took this to heart when designing his signature D-ring snaffle bit.

“Technique and ability are absolutely important, but you won’t get far without the right equipment,” says Chris, who rides all his young horses in this bit after they’ve taken their first few rides in a halter and lead. His signature snaffle has become popular with novice and advanced riders alike because of its effectiveness and classic appearance.

Unlike most snaffles where the round ring or D-ring swivels, Chris made his bit with a fixed D, and also contoured the mouthpiece. This unique design allows the mouth piece to put pressure on the bars of the horse’s mouth, not his tongue. This makes the bit much more effective in picking up the outside of the horse’ s mouth and offers more direction.

“The bit rests where it should in the horse’s mouth without pinching the bars of the mouth,” notes Chris. “The contour makes this bit especially effective for lateral work as opposed to a straight bit. It also discourages the horse from flipping his nose out and at the same time, encourages him to soften and bend at the poll.”

To increase saliva and keep the horse’s mouth moist, the sweet iron mouthpiece is inlaid with copper.The bit is offered with a 3/8-inch mouthpiece, which Chris recommends for most riders, and with a 1/4-inch mouthpiece when used by experienced riders or as a correction bit.

Because of the fixed D-ring, a chin strap is optional with this snaffle. You won’t experience the trouble of the bit pulling through the horse’s mouth the way a traditional snaffle can.

If the Chris Cox Signature D-Ring snaffle wasn’t on your Christmas list, don’t wait until next December. Visit the website at www.chris-cox.com or call the Chris Cox Horsemanship Company at 888-81-HORSE to order yours today.

EPNet Announces 7th Annual Spring Photographer's Workshop and Horse Drive in Craig, Colorado

The Equine Photographers Network (EPNet)www.equinephotographers.org announces the 7th Annual Spring Equine Photography Workshop is planned for Craig, Colorado for May 3 – May 10, 2009. This area of Northwest Colorado is known for it’s remote high desert beauty, abundant wildlife, wild horses and working ranches and cowboys. This region is also home to the Outlaw Trail and stomping grounds of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. This year’s event features two exciting offerings: the Member’s Workshop at the Sombrero Ranch, and by special invitation, the opportunity to photograph the 800 horse, 60 mile Great American Horse Drive. 2009 will mark the 50th anniversary for this exciting and unique event. Scott Trees will lead the workshop session photographing working cowboys at the Sombrero Ranch for two full days followed by a day photo and portfolio reviews and guest speakers.

The Sombrero Ranch Workshop will be followed by an extra special photo event. EPNet Members have been invited to photograph the annual Great American Horse Drive hosted by Sombrero Ranch. Photographers will have the chance to shoot this spectacular three day event and have once in a lifetime photo opportunities as over 800 horses are rounded up and driven 60 miles to the home ranch over two days.

Professional and amateur photographers, equine or otherwise, able to attend will want to mark their calendars for this great opportunity.

A complete overview of events is available at this link: http://events.equinephotographers.net/col09/index.htm Read about last year's event here: http://www.equinephotographers.org/newsletter/08july/ Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFLDRPYUd_w

Dressage4Kids Educational Program Offers Low Cost, Incredible Program for Riding Enthusiasts

Bedford, NY (December 29, 2009) - Dressage4kids, Inc invites everyone interested in horses and riding to their Seventh Annual Weekend Educational Program. The program is Saturday and Sunday, January 31/February 1 at the Nonnewaug Regional School in Woodbury, CT.

Thanks to very generous sponsorship from The Kuehner Foundation, the fee for each day is $20 for adults and $10 for youth if your application is received by January 23. The day fee includes lunch. Hotels are located in Woodbury, Southbury, and Waterbury, CT.

There will be lectures on subjects of interest to everyone involved in horses such as Skeleton and Aging by Teeth, Evaluating Hay and Feed, How We Learn, Going to the Olympics as a Groom, Improving your Competition Scores and Marketing Your Business. There will be a peer roundtable discussion for parents and one for professionals.

There are also four unique multi sessions: How to Teach (not what to teach) for instructors; Preparing for FEI Level Competition for advanced youth riders; Supporting (not smothering) Your Athlete for parents and trainer/instructors; and Judging Conformation for anyone.
The Saturday sessions for youth are sponsored by the Connecticut Dressage Association Vista Vintage Award Program.

Dr. Brendan Furlong, one of the most highly respected vets in the US, will speak on Saturday morning on “Keeping the Dressage Horse Sound”. Dr. Furlong has been the official team vet for the Jumping, Eventing, and Driving teams at Olympic and other international competitions since 1996. Wendy Drumm and Advanced Equine Research LLC are sponsoring his appearance.
On Sunday Dr. Michael Stewart will speak on “Laminitis: New Ideas, Approaches and Hope” as well as A Physical and Mental Approach to Preventing Burnout and the Ability to Move Forward in an Intensive Training Program.

For a complete list of speakers and schedule of events and application form visit www.dressage4kids.com or call Lendon Gray at (914) 234-4158.

The American Trakehner Association Announces 2009 Stallion Service Auction

NEWARK, OH – Mark your calendar! Bidding will open for the 2009 American Trakehner Association (ATA) Stallion Service Auction (SSA) on January 1, 2009. Over forty-five stallions are participating, including two Olympic medalists, Abdullah *Pg*E* and Peron *Pg*. This is the perfect opportunity to ring in the New Year with a discounted breeding to a versatile Trakehner horse. Participants may bid online or via mail. Online bidding ends on February 14 at 12 p.m. EST. If bidding by mail, bids should be postmarked by February 1. Minimum starting bid for each stallion is $500 with $50 increments thereafter.

All foals resulting from SSA breedings are eligible for the ATA Awards programs and ATA Futurity - which have paid out over $500,000 to date.

For detailed information on participating stallions, visit www.americantrakehner.com. For further information on ancillary breeding costs, call the phone number listed next to each stallion's name before you place your bid. Some stallion owners may require booking fees and/or deposits for shipping containers, stallion collection, mare care or shipping prior to breeding your mare. Please note that any such fees associated with the purchase of any of the donated breedings are the responsibility of the mare owner. This information (if provided to the ATA by the Stallion Owner) will be listed in the stallion information area under Fees/Contracts on individual stallion pages. If that information is missing, you MUST contact the owner. Make sure you understand any associated fees required by the stallion owner as all winning bids in the ATA SSA are non-refundable.

For more information or if you have any questions regarding the auction, contact the ATA Office at 740-344-1111.

The American Trakehner Association (ATA) was established in 1974 as a non-profit association of breeders, owners, and friends for the promotion and preservation, in the Western Hemisphere, of the warmblood horse of Trakehner origin. The ATA serves a number of purposes including:

Maintaining a public registry of Trakehner horses.
Marking and branding approved stallions, mares and foals with the Association's corporate seal.
Disseminating information to breeders, owners and friends pertaining to the breeding and raising of Trakehner horses.
Promoting the performance of the Trakehner horse in dressage, three-day eventing, hunting, jumping, driving and other sporting disciplines.
Encouraging a public understanding of the Trakehner horse, its breeding and performance.

For more information on the American Trakehner Association visit www.AmericanTrakehner.com.

The American Trakehner Association Congratulates 2008 Futurity Award Winners

NEWARK, OH – The American Trakehner Association (ATA) congratulates the 2008 Futurity Award winners. Horses nominated for the futurity have two opportunities to win. As three-year-olds, horses may compete in the U.S. Dressage Federation (USDF) Dressage Sport Horse Breeding (DSHB) In-Hand classes under the USDF Horse-of-the-Year program rules. Horses compete at age 4 ½ to 5 in the Dressage Futurity by competing at Training Level in USDF recognized shows, following the Horse-of-the-Year award rules.

Each year the ATA Futurity showcases talented young Trakehner horses. More information on the ATA Futurity can be found on the ATA website at www.americantrakehner.com.

2008 ATA Futurity winners are as follows:

2008 In Hand Futurity - Born in 2005
First: Le Rubio OAB-D-G358 (by Rubino Bellissimo (HAN) out of Lacrosse by Vincent); bred and owned by Stefanie Moses, Chester, N.H.
Second: Rousselet ORB-A-M2713 (by Beaujolais II out of Raumflug by Erzsand *E*); bred and owned by Linda Boyles, Lee, Fla.
Third: Oksana SR OSB-A-M2360 (by Summertime out of Onia by E.H. Consul); bred and owned by Nancy and Todd Shaw, Eustis, Fla.

2008 Under Saddle Futurity - Born in 2003
First: LeDon ORB-A-G658 (by Donaufürst *Ps*E* out of l'Egant *M* by Hailo *Pg*E*); bred and owned by Corrine Morrison, New Orleans, La.; ridden by Iris Eppinger
Second: Forrte ORB-D-S812 (by Beaujolais II out of Fem Fatale by Hailo *Pg*E*); bred and owned by Jean Brinkman, Wellborn, Fla.; ridden by Iris Eppinger
Third: Donauwaltzer ORB-A-G726 (by Stiletto *Pb* out of Donaulied by Avignon II); bred by Laura and Mike Hassel, Alpharetta, Ga. owned and ridden by Kelley Delaperriere, Alpharetta, Ga.
Fourth: Cailn Leith ORB-B-S1130 (by Leonidas *Pg* out of Caledonia xx by Rogreek xx); bred, owned and ridden by Nancy Winning, Holtwood, Ca.
Fifth: Libbie *M* OSB-A-M2196 (by Feuertänzer out of Lucie by Enrico Caruso *Ps*E*); bred and owned by Rita Haas, Corvallis, Mont.; ridden by Courtney Ells and Barbara Crabo.


Congratulations to all of this year’s winners.


The American Trakehner Association (ATA) was established in 1974 as a non-profit association of breeders, owners, and friends for the promotion and preservation, in the Western Hemisphere, of the warmblood horse of Trakehner origin. The ATA serves a number of purposes including:

Maintaining a public registry of Trakehner horses.
Marking and branding approved stallions, mares and foals with the Association's corporate seal.
Disseminating information to breeders, owners and friends pertaining to the breeding and raising of Trakehner horses.
Promoting the performance of the Trakehner horse in dressage, three-day eventing, hunting, jumping, driving and other sporting disciplines.
Encouraging a public understanding of the Trakehner horse, its breeding and performance.

For more information on the American Trakehner Association visit www.AmericanTrakehner.com.

The American Trakehner Association Announces 2008 Merit Awards

NEWARK, OH – The American Trakehner Association (ATA) is pleased to announce its 2008 Awards of Merit. The awards were announced at the ATA convention this fall. Additional details on the awards can be found on the ATA website at www.americantrakehner.com.

AWARDS OF MERIT
The Koenig/ NowPac Young Riders’ Dressage Award is a monetary award awarded to the highest scoring junior/young rider competing in dressage on an ATA Trakehner or Part-Trakehner horse. The 2008 recipient isLaura Noyes of Delaware, Ohio. Noyes competed at Prix St. Georges riding Syncro ORB-A-G442 (by Enrico Caruso *Ps*E* out of Sonset *E* by Habicht); bred by Perlebach Farms, Omaha, Neb. and owned by Laura Noyes, Delaware, Ohio.

The Palmenblüte Award is a perpetual trophy awarded to the ATA purebred Trakehner who has contributed the most in competition to promote the breed in North America. The 2008 winner is Syncro ORB-A-G442 (by Enrico Caruso *Ps*E* out of Sonset *E* by Habicht); bred by Perlebach Farms, Omaha, Neb.; owned and ridden by Laura Noyes, Delaware, Ohio.

The Trakehner Förderverein Award is a trophy donated by the Trakehner Förderverein of Germany and awarded annually to the most successful ATA purebred Trakehner in Eventing. The 2008 award goes toWindfall *Pg* OSB-E-S353 (by Habicht out of E.St. Wundermädel xx by Madruzzo xx). Windfall is bred by Heinz Lembke, Kaufbeuren, Germany; owned by Timothy Holekamp, Columbia, Mo. and ridden by Darren Chiacchia, Springville, N.Y.

The Trakehner Verband Award is a trophy donated by the Trakehner Verband and awarded annually to the most successful ATA purebred Trakehner in Dressage. The 2008 recipient is Martailo *Pg* ORB-B-S884 (by Hailo *Pg*E* out of Moselle by Martini *Pg*E*); bred by Lynn and Sam Culbert, Bradenton, Fla.; owned and ridden by Tracey Winter, Lake Worth, Fla.

The Cäsar Memorial Cup is a perpetual trophy awarded annually for the ATA approved Trakehner stallion with the year's highest score in Eventing. The 2008 award winner is Stiletto *Pb* OSB-A-S339 (by Martini *Pg*E* out of Suprecocious by Abdullah *Pg*E*); bred and owned by Jean Brinkman, Wellborn, Fla. and ridden by Andrew Palmer.

The Gerda Friedrichs Memorial Award is a perpetual trophy awarded annually to a member of the ATA for outstanding breeding success of an ATA studbook registered Trakehner broodmare and her foals. The 2008 award goes to High Class OSB-E-M1536 (by E.H. Ravel out of Hasel II by Ferlino); bred by Horst Tessner, Germany; owned by Les Ecuries Bois d'Elan, Melbourne, QC, Canada.

The Karl-Heinz Barton Memorial Trophy is a perpetual trophy awarded annually to an individual for exemplary service to the ATA. The 2008 recipient is Allen MacMillan of Huntington, Ind.

Congratulations to all of this years Merit award recipients

The American Trakehner Association (ATA) was established in 1974 as a non-profit association of breeders, owners, and friends for the promotion and preservation, in the Western Hemisphere, of the warmblood horse of Trakehner origin. The ATA serves a number of purposes including:

Maintaining a public registry of Trakehner horses.

Marking and branding approved stallions, mares and foals with the Association's corporate seal.

Disseminating information to breeders, owners and friends pertaining to the breeding and raising of Trakehner horses.

Promoting the performance of the Trakehner horse in dressage, three-day eventing, hunting, jumping, driving and other sporting disciplines.

Encouraging a public understanding of the Trakehner horse, its breeding and performance.

For more information on the American Trakehner Association visit www.AmericanTrakehner.com.

The American Trakehner Association Announces Stallions Approved in 2008

NEWARK, OH – The American Trakehner Association (ATA) is pleased to announce that the following five stallions were approved in 2008.

A’Osiris, owned by Raymond Bernier (Valley View Stable) of Milton, Vt.
Bond James Bond MB, owned by Elevages Mallet Barsalou of Quebec, Canada
Cardinali, owned by Jeanette Knight (Wolf Run Farm) of Buxton, Maine
Imminence, owned by Jean Brinkman (Valhalla Farm) of Wellborn, Fla.
Tatendrang, owned by Ann Cottongim (Emerald Acres) of Alford, Fla.

Trakehner stallions are not born approved; all stallions are presented for inspection and judged on athletic ability, conformation and attitude. Additionally, stallions must pass a rigorous performance test. The inspection process is clearly defined on the ATA website, but basically it includes the following elements:

Stand to be measured (height, girth, and cannon bone)
Walk and trot on a hard surface (sometimes asphalt)
Walk and trot on a triangle in an arena. (usually sand or other soft footing)
Walk, trot, and canter at liberty in an arena.
Stallions must also free jump three obstacles.
Walk for final evaluation before the results are announced

A number of inspections will be held in 2009. Check the ATA website for information on these sites. Additional information on inspections can be found on the ATA website at www.americantrakehner.com.

The American Trakehner Association (ATA) was established in 1974 as a non-profit association of breeders, owners, and friends for the promotion and preservation, in the Western Hemisphere, of the warmblood horse of Trakehner origin. The ATA serves a number of purposes including:

Maintaining a public registry of Trakehner horses.

Marking and branding approved stallions, mares and foals with the Association's corporate seal.

Disseminating information to breeders, owners and friends pertaining to the breeding and raising of Trakehner horses.

Promoting the performance of the Trakehner horse in dressage, three-day eventing, hunting, jumping, driving and other sporting disciplines.

Encouraging a public understanding of the Trakehner horse, its breeding and performance.

For more information on the American Trakehner Association visit www.AmericanTrakehner.com.

Local Scenery Inspires Members of the Buffalo River Affiliate of Back Country Horsemen to Meet Challenges Ahead

The Buffalo River, the first to be designated as a National River by Congress in the early 1970’s, travels eastward in the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without a system of dams, its waters freely flow over swift running rapids and through quiet pools as it makes it’s its way between massive bluffs and hardwood forests for its 150 mile length, 135 of which are managed by the National Park Service. The beauty of this region has been the inspiration for members of the Buffalo River Affiliate of Back County Horsemen to work to keep the wilderness area open for equestrian use.

“Who will do the work,” was the question Affiliate then President Peggy Thompson asked herself one day while sitting on a bluff high above the river, watching the silver ribbon of water rushing by below. “That day the water was sparkling, tumbling, and rushing on its way to the sea. The late winter and early spring rains had cleaned and brought new life to the flow of the river and in that I found the inspiration for our group to meet the challenge that we face. We must never lose the privilege to ride our horses in this wild and glorious place through crisp, clear water, the splendor of autumn leaves, fields of spring and summer flowers, and winter scenes of magnificent bluffs and rocks,” Thompson explained. To this end, the Buffalo River Affiliate has set its sights on protecting equestrian access to the wilderness area following the guiding principles of its parent organization, Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA). “We thank the national organization for developing a philosophy and purpose that will help us successfully meet our goal of continued horse and stock use in the Buffalo National River wilderness area,” said Thompson.

Working to insure that public lands stay open for recreational riding and assisting the various government and private agencies in the maintenance and management of these lands are two principles of BCHA that the Buffalo River Affiliate adopted early on, and each helped the group accomplish a great deal of work over the course of 2007. Other equestrian groups joined with Affiliate members for work days spent clearing brush, building water bars, and removing fallen trees from many sections of the trail system, particularly in areas that rely solely on volunteer efforts. One group in particular took it upon themselves to clear overhanging brush each time they rode, making a point of traveling the entire trail system over several months. “Not only did everyone who participated come away with a feeling of great satisfaction having accomplished so much, our work was noticed by other horsemen using the trails, as well as Park Service staff;” Thompson noted. Looking ahead, the group is planning a clean up of the Lower Buffalo Wilderness in cooperation with Park Service Rangers and the Ozark Society, a regional hiking group, to remove trash from abandoned hunting camps.

In keeping with another BCHA stated purpose, that of educating, encouraging, and soliciting active participation in the wise use of wilderness areas by both horsemen and the general public, the Buffalo River Affiliate organized a Leave No Trace (LNT) presentation for its members as well as Park Service staff on a beautiful fall day in October. The presentation was followed with a scenic trail ride that included the Park Service members, a first time experience for some and a great team-building experience for all! The groups in-coming President successfully completed a LNT training course with plans for sessions with Affiliate members, Forest Service, and Park Service staff, as well as with youth groups and members of other equestrian clubs over the course of 2008. Other chapter members attended the well regarded International Mountain Biking Association Land Manager Seminar as well as the American Endurance Ride Association Master Trail & Trail Care Training workshop to learn new trail maintenance techniques.

The Buffalo group is hopeful that their efforts will inspire other horsemen to form additional BCHA affiliates across Arkansas that can work together to protect equestrian access throughout Arkansas’ public lands. “Looking ahead, our goals include helping to foster and encourage the formation of new groups who share in our mission, giving horsemen a strong and positive presence statewide. This is an important part of maintaining a good working relationship with land managers who might otherwise not recognize that horsemen are committed to caring for the land they use,” said Thompson. It is also another way in which the Buffalo River Affiliate is using the principles of BCHA to protect the beautiful wilderness area they feel so fortunate to be able to use. In 2007, the group contributed an impressive 1,668 volunteer hours of trail work and 685 volunteer hours of educational outreach. If you would like to help, please contact the Buffalo River Affiliate President Jacque Alexander atJacque.alexander@arkansas.gov

Buffalo River Affiliate is part of the Back Country Horsemen of America, a 16,000 member national organization that promotes recreational riding and stock use on public lands. To learn more, please go towww.backcountryhorse.com or telephone toll free 888-893-5161.

THE GREAT RACEHORSE RUHLMANN, DEAD AT 23

GEORGETOWN, KY—DECEMBER 26, 2008—Ruhlmann, the eight-time stakes winning stallion and winner of the 1990 Santa Anita Derby, died on Christmas Eve. He was 23. The news was announced today by a saddened Michael Blowen, founder and president of Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, where the distinguished stallion had been pensioned since 2004.

 

Ruhlmann was found just shortly after being brought up from his paddock for the night. Veterinarian Dr. Doug Byars arrived within minutes, and, judging by the virtually undisturbed nature of his stall, concluded that the horse died instantly, most likely from an aneurysm. A full autopsy report is pending.

 

Ruhlmann (Mr. Leader—Indian Maiden by Chieftain) was owned and campaigned by Jerry and Ann Moss of California, who donated the horse to Old Friends in 2004 under an endowment. The following spring, the Mosses went on to win the 2005 Kentucky Derby with their colt Giacomo and most recently won the 2008 Breeder’s Cup Ladies Classic with the undefeated Zenyatta.

 

In his heyday, the jet black Ruhlman defeated some of the best horses of his generation, including Easy Goer and Sunday Silence. In all he captured 9 of his 22 starts, eight of them graded stakes. His promising 3-year-old campaign included wins in 1989’s San Bernardino Handicap and the Native Diver Handicap. The colt's most stunning victory, however, may well have been 1990’s $1 million Santa Anita Handicap with jockey Gary Stevens aboard. In the Big 'Cap, Ruhlmann vanquished the favorite, Bayakoa, as well as Criminal Type, who would later become his turf rival. The two faced off for track supremacy five more times that year, with Type besting Ruhlmann 3-2 and beating him out of horse of the year honors by a mere nose.

 

“I’m devoted to all of our retirees, but Ruhlmann has always had a very special place in my heart,” said Blowen. “He will be sorely missed by all of us at Old Friends and by his many fans and admirers who visited him often.

 

“We’re deeply grateful to Jerry and Ann Moss and Dottie and David Ingordo for trusting us with their amazing athlete," continued Blowen. “Ruhlmann was, after all, the first Thoroughbred donated to Old Friends by his owners and it sent the message to the rest of the racing world that we were okay, They have subsequently sent us Kudos, who‘s been doing great.”

 

Plans for his Ruhlmann's burial and memorial service will be announced next week.

 

Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, is currently home to nearly 30 retired racehorses, including such champions as Sunshine Forever, Ogygian, The Wicked North, and Fortunate Prospect. For more information contact Michael Blowen at (859) 509-4814, or email

michael@oldfriendsequine.org .

Four Pure Spanish Horses Awarded to Essay Winners

Albuquerque, New Mexico  --  The Foundation for the Pure Spanish Horse announced the winning authors in their annual Essay Contest.  The 2008 essays were so extraordinary that the judges decided that the original prize (one horse to the best essay) should be expanded to provide a reward to the four winning authors.

 

In the Youth Division (ages 15 and under), there were two winners, each of whom was awarded a Pure Spanish mare.  The first winner is Ariella Mostov of San Francisco, California, who wrote of a Pura Raza Española (P.R.E.) mare who was noble and compassionate, showing with her love how people should be treated.  Ariella wrote:  “A P.R.E. is not just a breed of horse; it’s the example of what a horse should be.”

 

The second youth winner is Mishaal Hassan of Houston, Texas, who wrote the story of how a P.R.E. horse  brought friends together and helped one girl regain her confidence. Mishaal showed how caring and humor, together with the great personality of the P.R.E. horse, again proved that there is no horse like a P.R.E.

 

In the adult category, the first winner of a P.R.E. mare was Hannah Rivard of Arlington, Minnesota.  Hannah wrote movingly of a farm where horses help troubled youth, and of one particular young woman who finds her heart opened again to love by a P.R.E. mare.

 

And the final winner in the adult category is Pam Hines of Tyler, Texas, whose story was not fiction, but rather the true story of the incredible impact a P.R.E. filly had on the life of one autistic child.

 

The winners were called on December 24, and Barbara Clark, the Executive Director who had the pleasure of announcing the judges’ decision to the winners, told of tears, of joy, of disbelief, and of excitement about how soon the mares could be brought to their new homes.

 

“We were staggered by the high quality of the essays and by the emotion that was felt by reading each of the stories.  Our judges were thrilled that the spirit, the nature, and the nobility of our breed could be captured so well by the authors.  The Foundation hopes that next year will produce similarly talented authors as we continue expanding our P.R.E. family,”  Barbara Clark reported.

 

These stories will be published in the magazine of The Foundation, “The P.R.E., The Spanish Horse” in upcoming issues.  Additionally, they will be available on The Foundation’s website: www.prehorse.org.

 

For more information about this contest and to see the rules for the 2009 contest, visit The Foundation’s website: www.prehorse.org where details are available.

Omega Fields® Shines With YOU SHINE! Donations Program

Newton, WI, December 24, 2008 – Omega Fields® receives many requests from worthwhile canine and equine organizations every year—asking for donations to their events to be used as prizes or raffle items.  In response, Omega Fields has established a donation program called “YOU SHINE!” to provide product donations for those organizations.

“Product donations have the double affect of not only supporting our customer’s valuable organizations, but also helping Omega Fields spread the word about our premium, stabilized, ground flax supplements for animals at a grass-roots level,” said Bonnie Krajnik, Vice President of Omega Fields.

Due to the large number of donation requests received, Omega Fields requires at least three months advance notice to respond.  Additionally, there is a limit of one donation per year per organization and only current Omega Fields customers may apply. 

To apply for donated products through the YOU SHINE! program, customers need only complete a form found on the Omega Fields’ website, www.omegafields.com/events.

About Omega Fields

Omega Fields provides premium, human-grade, stabilized ground flax products, rich in antioxidants and containing optimum ratios of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for equine, canine, feline, swine, poultry, and human nutrition via online and traditional distribution models.  Online-based consumer distribution includes OmegaFields.com and OmegaFieldsHealth.com.  National and international retail delivery is through a distributor network and retail dealer outlets.  Omega Fields is recognized as a minority owned business.

Omega Fields’ mission is to offer finest quality, most nutritious products at fair prices and provide outstanding customer service.  We want our customers to have exceptional experiences with our products, our staff, our websites, and our retailers.

For further information, contact Patrick Young, Omega Fields Director of Communications, toll free at 1-800-962-9536, or 920-550-4061, ext. 118, email pat.young@enreco.com, or log on towww.omegafields.com or www.omegafieldshealth.com. 

The second Women LUV Horses again proves to be an exciting success

OCALA, FLORIDA (December 15, 2008) – Lynn Palm’s Women LUV Horses Retreat December 5-7 in City of Industry, California, was a great success and strong foundation for upcoming events. The founder of Women LUV Horses, Palm stated that “I was so proud to have coordinated such an event and it was exceptionally well run. Although the attendance was disappointing, we only received positive feedback.  It is tough with today’s economy, but that makes us work harder and I plan to keep the concept alive.  Our sponsors and vendors were very pleased, the clinicians were awesome and the contests were just fun!  The Fashion for Fillies Show and Cowgirl Party were all I expected-first class.” 

The Cowgirl Party Charity Event provided attendees with a fabulous catered dinner and entertainment including bridleless exhibitions, vaulting, mustang exhibitions, great music and guest speakers. The silent auction showcasing 142 items raised more than $10,000 for several charities, including the AQHA America's Horse Cares, AQHA Professional Horsemen's Crisis Fund, American Paint Horse Association Foundation (APHA), and Wrangler Tough Enough to Wear Pink (TEWP) for the Susan G. Komen for the cure.

A first of its kind, the Supreme HorseWoman Champion Corinne Elser of Burns, Oregon received nearly $5,000 in awards for accomplishments riding her mustang “Dolly”.  Wylene Wilson of Queen Creek, Arizona rode her mustang “Filthy Rich” to qualify for the finals where she cinched the Reserve Championship. Top Six Finalist, Janet Titus said: “What a wonderful experience with truly amazing horsewomen. I'll cherish the memories from WLH for the rest of my life…and you put on a fantastic, organized show, with great prizes!”

 

New to the west coast, Women LUV Horses hosted the “All-Around Bridleless Championship”  judged by Margo Ball of Fort Collins, CO and other lady clinicians. The All-Around Bridleless Champion was Madelyn Wagner of Valley Center, California.  Linda Laird of Bishop, California showed her mule, Sweet Melissa to an impressive Reserve Champion finish.  Youth competitor Alex Simpson said: “I was the only JR rider at Women LUV Horses…the staff and the other competitors made me feel very welcome! Everyone was very supportive…and I even learned some new things that I am now using when I work with my horse. I will definitely be back next year!!!!”

 

Women LUV Horses proudly announce the winners of the Women LUV Horses Photo Essay Contest sponsored by Palm Partnership Training and EquiMedic USA.  Congratulations to our winners!

·        Overall Grand Prize Winner: Erica Frederick, Northville, Michigan

·        Overall Reserve Grand Prize Winner: Rachel Grabowski, Wolverine Lake, Michigan

·        Overall Youth Division Winner: Cierra Tomaso, Pine Knolls Shores, North Carolina

 

Mary Watts, from Equine Network’s Horse & Rider enjoyed the Women LUV Horses weekend and said

“the facility was wonderful, the speakers informative and the best the industry has to offer, the

 competitions exciting and all around entertaining and informative.  All your hard work really did show.

I was thrilled to be able to meet and get to know so many of the guest speakers.  They truly are the

 WHOS WHO in our industry!”  A special thank you to all the sponsors of Women LUV Horses: Adequan, Alliance Saddlery USA, Bay Area Equestrian Network, Dover Saddlery, EOUS/Equisupplies, EquiMedic USA, Farnam, Hobby Horse, Horseware Ireland, Horse & Rider, Kathy’s Show Equipment, Kerrits, MD Barns, Mercedes Boot Company, MyHorse.com, Oster Professional Products, Professional’s Choice, Purina Mills, Palm Partnership Training, Ramm Fence, Smart Pak Equine, Smith Brothers, SUCCEED, Threadneedle Embroidery, Whip Clip and Wrangler.

 

Join us in Ocala, April 3-5^th 2009 at the Ocala Equestrian Complex for Women LUV Horses and the first ever Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover sponsored by the Mustang Heritage Foundation. For more information regarding the Women LUV Horses event please contact Marie-Frances Davis atgeneralinfo@lynnpalm.com or call (352) 629-3310. For more information regarding the Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover contact Randi Blasienz at rblasienz@gmail.com or (512) 358-6332.

  

About Lynn Palm

Palm's career highlights include 2007 American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Horsewoman of the Year, a record four AQHA Superhorse wins, AQHA Female Equestrian of the Year by the Women's Athletic Association, named one of the top United States clinicians by Horse & Rider magazine, over 34 AQHA World and Reserve World Champions, over 50 bridleless dressage exhibitions at events including the National Horse Show, Washington International Horse Show, and World Cup. Palm and Cyril Pittion-Rossillon are co-founders of three horse industry companies: Palm Partnership Training, Women LUV Horses Retreat, and Alliance Saddlery USA. 

NRHA RECOGNIZES TRIO FOR JUDGING CONTEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Oklahoma City, OK – December 26, 2008 - From California to the Northeast and Canada, as far as the deep-south into the heart of Texas, young collegians are trained in intricacies of judging Reining horses. The National Reining Horse Association celebrated its 20th anniversary of the NRHA Intercollegiate Judging Contest in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma during the 2008 NRHA Futurity & Adequan^® North American Affiliate Championship Show. West Texas A&M University, Dr. John Pipkin and Camille Hobbs were recognized for their accomplishments related to this equine educational event.

The NRHA Board of Directors voted to retire the contest's perpetual bronze award trophy and house it with a base listing all the previous contest winners at the NRHA office. In honor of their diligence, determination and success in the field of Reining, a permanent Lawson Bronze was presented to West Texas A&M University and Dr. John Pipkin.  Teams from West Texas A&M University, under the expert guidance of Dr. John Pipkin, won the coveted bronze eight times including the last seven years consecutively.

Dr. Pipkin has been an approved judge with five equine breed and discipline associations for over 10 years. He has judged more than 300 shows in 9 different countries. Pipkin is currently the Head of the Department of Agricultural Sciences, Director of Equine Industry Program, and Professor of Animal Science at West Texas A&M University where his duties include coaching the Horse Judging Team that has won over 50 National or World Champion or Reserve Champion titles, supervising the Equestrian Team that has won 25 Champion or Reserve Champion titles, in addition to teaching and research responsibilities. He is a Director for AQHA, and Vice-Chair of the AQHA Show Committee, and Chair of the Western Sub-Committee. His wife, Kenda, is also an AQHA, NRHA, NRCHA, and NSBA judge.  They live in Amarillo with their two sons, John Luke and Joshua.

Camille Cofer Hobbs was recognized for her distinguished service to the creation, implementation and continuation of the NRHA Intercollegiate Judging Contest. She was honored at NRHA Futurity for 20 years of Exemplary Service as NRHA Collegiate Judging Contest Coordinator. Hobbs originally presented the idea of the contest to the NRHA Board of Directors in 1989. She has been a NRHA judge for 20 years and was the Association's first Volunteer of the Year in 1990. Hobbs, a graduate of Texas A&M University with a bachelor's degree in Animal Science, is married to Clarence, and is the mother of Kristen, Brie and Kyle. She is the grandmother to two children, Lexis and Jadin Hobbs. She is a long-time Edmond, Oklahoma resident and is a realtor with Century 21 Goodyear Green of Edmond and is an Arbonne International consultant.

Each year young apprentice judges match their skills against some of NRHA's finest judges at the NRHA Intercollegiate Judging Contest. For twenty years students and coaches have dedicated countless hours in preparation for this contest. NRHA's premier judging system has been taught and adopted by the colleges and universities across the US and into Canada. NRHA judges, rookie reiners, contestants and NRHA staff have come from their ranks. Almost 2,000 students and volunteer scribes have participated in this unique single event contest where students judge a live class with the winner being the one whose scores come closest to the actual Futurity judge's scores.

Incorporated in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association is the governing body of the sport of Reining. NRHA, with headquarters in Oklahoma City, is responsible for promoting the sport of Reining and working to ensure the highest standards of competition. For more information, on the NRHA or the sport of Reining, please visitwww.nrha.com.

The 2009 season has begun for the Oregon High School Equestrian Teams of the Central District!

There are approximately 120 riders competing

The Central District of Oregon is comprised of at least a dozen schools including all Central Oregon high schools. The 3rd meet is April 16-18 with year-end awards on the 19th at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Hooker Creek Arena, in Redmond, OR. Thursday-English Equitation & jumping classes, In Hand Obstacle Relay, Working Pairs and Drill. Friday-Working Rancher, Showmanship, Reining, Stock Seat Equitation, Driving, Trail, and Team Penning. Saturday- Breakaway roping, Steer daubing and gaming events. Sunday- April 19th year end awards. Admission is free and vendors will be on site. Each day usually starts at 8:30 a.m. 

For more information, contact Kathy Russell, Central District media, 419-8925, www.ohset.com

NRHA EUROPEAN FUTURITY SLATED FOR MARCH IN GERMANY

Oklahoma City, OK – December 24, 2008 – Thanks to the support of the European community and generous sponsors from North America and abroad, the 2009 National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) European Futurity will be held March 23-29 in Kreuth, Germany. Earlier this year it was announced that the 2009 NRHA European Futurity was postponed due to complications with the original facility. However; after many meetings, hard work and sponsorship commitments, a new location has been secured. Up-to-date conditions, entry details and facility information for the inaugural event will be available soon at www.nrha.com.

The NRHA European Futurity will be "Open to the World" and will showcase four-year-old Reining horses and riders competing for close to three hundred thousand dollars in prize money. Riders can show their three-year-olds in other futurities, and then they can compete in the NRHA European Futurity in early spring of the following year when they are four year olds. It will host a full slate of Open and Non Pro competition, be NRHA-approved and run under NRHA rules.

"Thanks to many generous Reining supporters, the first-ever NRHA European Futurity will now become a reality in 2009. This is an amazing step for Reining's expansion across the globe and we are excited to provide a world-class competition for exhibitors and spectators," said Dan Wall NRHA Executive Director.

The National Reining Horse Association, the international governing body for the sport of Reining, is a nonprofit association dedicated to promoting and encouraging the development of and public interest in the sport of Reining. The focus is on developing and maintaining suitable standards of performance and judging and in providing a fun filled, family-oriented atmosphere. For more information on NRHA, visit www.nrha.com or call (405) 946-7400.

Fans Across US, Canada, Denmark Order Tickets for Wellington's World Dressage Masters CDI 5* Jan. 28-31

WELLINGTON, Fla., Dec. 23--Fans from 23 U.S. states, Canada and Denmark have already reserved seats for the $140,000 Exquis World Dressage Masters CDI-5* that features the top European and North American riders at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Jan. 28-31.

Since tickets went on sale on http://www.equestriansport.com last Friday, Dec. 19, reservations have been made by residents in California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

The USA's Steffen Peters, Anky van Grunsven, Edward Gal and Hans Peter Minderhoud of The Netherlands, Anne van Olst of Denmark and Ashley Holzer and Jacqueline Brooks of Canada have committed to the event. More top European and U.S. riders are expected to confirm their participation shortly.

Twenty riders will start in the Grand Prix on Thursday, Jan. 29, then go on to the selected final: the Grand Prix Special during the day on Saturday or the Grand Prix Musical Freestyle under lights on Saturday night.

Van Grunsven, the most successful freestyle competitor in the history of dressage with eight World Cup titles and three individual Olympic gold medals, will host a clinic on Friday, Jan. 30.

"I am really looking forward to competing in the States again after my World Cup Final victory in Las Vegas two years ago," Anky said in confirming that she will take part in the WDM.

"Also, I am curious to see which riders and horses I will have in my clinic. I am sure I can give a number of good tips for the riders together with their horses to perform better in the future."

Tickets for WDM are available online at www.equestriansport.com and clicking on Buy Tickets.

Because of high demand for the limited seating at both the Friday clinic and the Saturday competition, tickets will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. Online ticket sales will be allocated first based on the date and time of purchase.

Ticket options for WDM are:

-International Club $750 for a table of six per night on Friday night or Saturday night, or $1,350 for both nights. Dinner and open bar included.

--International Club individual seats $125 per night on Friday night and Saturday night, or $225 for both nights. Dinner and open bar included.

-VIP boxes $50 for individual seats on Friday night and Saturday night, or $90 for both nights.

-Reserved General Admission is $20 per night, or $35 for two nights.

For more information, call Annette Goyette at 561 793 5867.

The Wellington competition is the inaugural and only U.S. event in the first WDM series. The other competitions are Salzburg Austria, (May 1-3), Munich, Germany, (May 21-24) and Hickstead, Great Britain (July 23-26).

The WDM has been created so the world's top dressage riders can compete in the Grand Prix to qualify for the Grand Prix Special or the Grand Prix Freestyle for 100,000 (US$144,000) in total prize money at the spectacular PBIEC, a permanent showcase of the finest equestrian sports.

Photo: World Cup and Olympic Champion Anky van Grunsven who will compete in the Exquis World Dressage Masters CDI 5* at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Jan. 28-31. The Dutch star will also host a clinic during the WDM. She is shown here giving a mounted clinic in a stadium that was packed despite heavy rain. Photo: 2007 Ken Braddick-HorseSport USA

Alltech Becomes Title Sponsor of the Alltech FEI European Jumping & Dressage Championships 2009

[London, UNITED KINGDOM] – Global animal health and nutrition company, Alltech, captured the full attention of the equine industry with the announcement that they will sponsor the Alltech FEI European Jumping & Dressage Championships 2009.

With this new sponsorship agreement, Alltech, already sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™, is now title sponsor of two of the largest FEI Championships in the world.

“In 2006, Alltech made history by becoming the first ever title sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and today’s announcement represents another first. With the Alltech FEI European Equestrian Games, we are reaching out with our industry partners to each and every horse owner and trainer across Europe as well as bringing the excitement into the homes of millions of television viewers,” explained Alltech’s Founder and President, Dr. Pearse Lyons.

He continued, “our company is all about improving animal performance through nutrition – and our aim is to build the first superbrand in the animal health and nutrition industry. We believe that associating our brand with this international equestrian event and linking it to animals performing at their peak will take us one step closer to reaching this ambitious goal.”


“The FEI is delighted to see Alltech become the title sponsor of one of the highlights of the 2009 sporting equestrian year,” FEI Secretary General Alex McLin said. “Some of Europe’s best horsemen and women will convene at Windsor for the 2009 Alltech FEI European Jumping and Dressage Championships and we are looking forward to an event of the highest competition and organizational standard.”

The Alltech FEI European Jumping & Dressage Championships will take place from the 25 to 30 August 2009 at Windsor Castle. These championships mark the first time that the European Jumping Championships and the European Dressage Championships have been held together at the same venue. It is estimated that over 60,000 visitors will attend during the six days of the competition.

Alltech will also sponsor the Alltech Royal Windsor Grand Prix, taking place during the Royal Windsor Horse Show, 13 to 17 May 2009, and the Alltech Olympia Grand Prix, taking place during Olympia, The London International Horse Show 2009.

Alltech is a privately owned company with 28 years’ experience in developing natural products that are scientifically proven to enhance equine and livestock health and performance. The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™ will be held in Kentucky, USA from 25 September to 10 October 2010. This 16-day competition will see riders from around the world compete in eight equestrian disciplines, namely show-jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, endurance, vaulting, reining and para-equestrian.

AQHA CLARIFIES PROGRESSIVE WORKING HUNTER ELIGIBILITY

The American Quarter Horse Journal, December 23, 2008 – The American Quarter Horse Association show department wants to clarify the new progressive working hunter class eligibility.

The 2009 Official Handbook of Rules and Regulations includes rule 462(b), which states the following eligibility requirements for progressive working hunter:

Eligibility requirements are for horses of all ages who have no previous AQHA points in Open Working Hunter, Amateur Working Hunter, Youth Working Hunter, Amateur Equitation Over Fences, Youth Equitation Over Fences, Open Jumping, Youth Jumping and Amateur Jumping and who have not exhibited in a class 3’ and over in competition.

According to the rule, any horse competing in a class with the fence height at 3 feet or higher is not eligible for the Progressive Working Hunter class. Since this is a new rule, AQHA is making the following amendment, which is stated below:

Prior to January 1, 2009, a horse may be shown but no points earned in the above listed classes.

If a horse was shown in one of the above-listed classes with fences 3 feet or higher, that horse is still eligible in 2009 for Progressive Working Hunter, as long as no points were earned. However, beginning January 1, 2009, if a horse is shown in an over-fences class with 3-foot fences, that horse will not be eligible for progressive working hunter in 2010, whether or not the horse earns points.

The following classes have jumps of 3 feet or higher: all age, senior, junior, amateur and youth working hunter; open, amateur and youth jumping.

AQHA created the Progressive Working Hunter class as a stepping-stone for horses between the Green Working Hunter and the Open Working Hunter classes. The first Progressive Working Hunter world champion will be crowned at the 2009 AQHA World Championship Show.

If you have further questions about eligibility for the progressive working hunter class, please contact the AQHA show department at (806) 378-4341.

AQHA news and information is a service of AQHA publications. For more information on The American Quarter Horse Journal, The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal or America’s Horse, visit www.aqha.com/magazines.

Featherlite partners with exciting new series ‘Saddle Up with Dennis Brouse’ on PBS

Show combines training techniques with heartwarming stories

CRESCO, Iowa/December 23, 2008—Featherlite Trailers is excited to announce its partnership with Saddle Up with Dennis Brouse, a new television series that celebrates the relationship between horse and human that will debut in January of 2009. The first season of this 13-part series will debut on PBS stations across the country. 

The host, Dennis Brouse, is a highly respected and experienced horse trainer. “Whether you own a horse or just love to watch them in the movies, we’ll explore our storied partnership with this magnificent animal,” Brouse said. “The series will appeal to everyone from the serious horse owner to the arm-chair rider. We’re grateful to public television and our sponsors American Cowboy, Featherlite, Fund for Horses and Gold Buckle Network for making this possible.”

            Shot in high definition (HD), each episode will showcase a specific training question or situation addressed by Brouse with the horse's owner. This training thread is integrated into each show as a means to increase the audience’s understanding of horses. Special features will take viewers on a powerful and emotional journey into the horse world, highlighting everything from the mounted police to hippotherapy, along with segments on special breeds and classes of horses.

            A Featherlite living quarters horse trailer will be used during the production of the show. “Featherlite is proud to support Saddle Up with Dennis Brouse and their great work conveying the compelling stories of the relationship between horse and rider,” Randy Lewis, Featherlite national sales manager, said. 

Brouse has been working with horses since the age of 14. After spending time learning to train horses “the old fashioned way,” he quickly realized that he was at odds with this method. Since 1996, Dennis has spent thousands of hours studying and fine-tuning his training methods. In 2002, he produced his first series of training tapes, and shortly thereafter produced a television show that aired on RFD-TV.

Saddle Up with Dennis Brouse is produced by GlassOnion Productions and distributed by Executive Program Services (EPS). Horse enthusiasts are encouraged to check their local public television station listings for air times, or contact their local station (http://www.pbs.org/stationfinder/stationfinder_relocalize.html) to make sure this program is shown in their area. Visit http://www.saddleupwithdennisbrouse.comfor a sneak peek of the show.

Featherlite’s product line of horse, livestock, car, recreation and commercial/utility trailers are sold through an international dealer network of over 200. For more information on Featherlite, visit http://www.fthr.com/tnews or call 800-800-1230.

Back Country Horsemen of America Represents You, Too

BCHA is known for their stand on wilderness lands, but they seek to preserve every trail riding opportunity on public land, no matter how small.

By Sarah Wynne Jackson

 

Many of us dream of taking our horses out on wide expanses of untouched land, but the reality is that some of us reside in urban and city areas. Depending on where you live, “back country” might be a 50 acre town recreational area or an old railroad bed.

 

These front country lands are the only safe places some equestrians have to get their horses out of the arena and to experience a taste of traveling by horseback. Back Country Horsemen of America believes that every trail used by horses is valuable and worthy of the effort of maintenance and preservation.

 

Greensfelder County Park

 

Just 33 miles outside St. Louis, Missouri, at the foothills of the gently rolling Ozark mountain range, Greensfelder County Park features lovely shaded trails and spectacular views. Its 1,583 acres has five miles of well-maintained trails that range from gentle to steep, as well as horse boarding and horse camping. This is a safe place for riders to take their horses, especially during hunting season.

 

This land experiences heavy hiking and mountain biking use in addition to horses. But that’s not a problem thanks to a collaboration among the local user groups. They’ve formulated a Share the Trails Program, which makes all trails open to everyone throughout the park, excluding motorized vehicles. Signs and brochures educate people on proper etiquette when they come upon other trail users.

 

Greensfelder County Park trails are maintained by Show Me Missouri Back Country Horsemen (SMMBCH) in conjunction with the Wildwood Horse Owners and Acreage Association. Formed by local trail riders in 2002, SMMBCH maintains public lands for horse use both large and small across the state, works with public land managers and other land users to minimize our impact, and is actively involved in trail maintenance and planning.

 

A.J. Jolly County Park

 

Located just three miles outside of the busy Alexandria, Kentucky, city limits, A.J. Jolly County Park encompasses 900 acres of mature forests, deep ravines, creeks, and a 200-acre lake. Its eight miles of equestrian trails are mostly double wide and vary from gently sloping to hilly to very steep and physically challenging for horses. Because other users here don’t want multi-use trails, there are separate trails for horses.

 

This front country land is maintained by a group of horsemen in the process of fulfilling the requirements of a BCHA affiliate, who will be called Northern Kentucky Back Country Horsemen. Their latest project includes cutting new trails on 96 acres just added to A.J. Jolly County Park. They plan to finish the perimeter trail before the park opens seasonally in the spring, which will add over five miles of equestrian trails. Future plans include loop trails within the perimeter trail and a horse campground.

 

About three years ago, the Fiscal Court (the body that manages the park) was intending to close it permanently because no one came forward to maintain the trails. These local horse owners requested that the park remain open and spent countless hours fixing and cleaning the existing trails. Through this effort and their continuing trail work, they have succeeded in preserving A.J. Jolly County Park as a trail riding site.

 

This Land is Your Land

 

Back Country Horsemen of America knows that keeping trails open to horse use is dependent on dedicated individuals and groups who see horses as a vital part of the heritage of the United States. They share the vision of BCHA: horse users across the nation enjoying their horses and the land, regardless of how small and urban that front country might be.

 

What is back country to you? Where did you ride horses when you were young? Where do you ride now? Will you be able to ride there in 10 or 20 years, or will that opportunity be lost? If you want to learn more about how you can preserve those public lands for horse use in the future, contact BCHA.

 

About Back Country Horsemen of America

 

BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes in regards to the use of horses and stock in the wilderness and public lands.

 

If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com, call 888-893-5161, or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!

Eight Belles tragedy TIMES Newsmaker of the Year

LEXINGTON, Ky.-The tragic death of Eight Belles after the Kentucky Derby and the subsequent changes and responses within the Thoroughbred industry was selected by the editors and staff of THOROUGHBRED TIMES as the most significant story of the year and awarded the publication's annual Newsmaker of the Year. The Newsmaker of the Year is reported in THOROUGHBRED TIMES issue of December 20, 2008.

Eight Belles finished second behind Big Brown in the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs but suffered catastrophic condylar fractures to both front ankles and was euthanized on the track just minutes after the running of the historic race. A wave of negative publicity immediately ensued and the racing industry's response, either through passage of measures to improve safety or through its self-evaluation, followed for several months.

The changes included the formation of the Thoroughbred Safety Committee, which was charged with reviewing every facet of equine health and issue recommendations to improve the health and safety of Thoroughbreds, and steps by the industry to ban anabolic steroids, restrict the use of toe grabs on racehorses, and implement whip regulations.

Federal lawmakers stepped into the mix when the Energy and Commerce Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives invited horsemen and industry decision makers to testify at a June 19 hearing titled "Breeding, Drugs, and Breakdowns: The State of Thoroughbred Horseracing and Welfare of the Thoroughbred." A few months later, Breeders' Cup Ltd. instituted a steroid ban for all its affiliated events, including the Breeders' Cup World Championships at Santa Anita Park.

The headlines generated by the tragedy of Eight Belles and the subsequent action by the industry topped a year that also included such prominent stories as Big Brown's quest for the Triple Crown, the world's economic crisis, the campaigns by Curlin and Zenyatta, and continued spending sprees by Dubai's Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum.

A complete recap of the Newsmaker of the Year will be available on the Thoroughbred Times website, www.thoroughbredtimes.com, later this month, along with a recap of the other leading news stories of 2008. 

For more information, contact THOROUGHBRED TIMES Managing Editor Tom Law, (859) 260-9800 or tlaw@thoroughbredimes.com.

About Thoroughbred Times

Thoroughbred Times Company publishes the THOROUGHBRED TIMES, a weekly newsmagazine for owners, breeders, trainers, and racing enthusiasts worldwide. Thoroughbred Times also publishes an annual Stallion Directory, the Buyer's Guides for auctions, an annual Auction Review, the daily electronic newsletter THOROUGHBRED TIMES TODAY, the annual Thoroughbred Times Racing Almanac, and maintains a comprehensive website at www.thoroughbredtimes.com.

Washington State Animal Response Team Training Schedule

WASART's Annual Orientation is scheduled for January 10th at 9:15 a.m. at the Key Bank Community Meeting Room, 1212 Cole Street, Enumclaw, WA  98022 and the WASART's Academy begins training on February 7-8, 2009.  

WASART has levels of training.  Level 1 trains in February, and these are the folks who are the identification and documentation specialists.  Level 2s train at the same time but have to complete a sheltering course on March 21st.  An Emergency Response Vehicle Course is being taught on March 22nd.  Finally, the Level 3 training (the Field Response Teams - they go out and do the actual evacuating/rescuing of displaced animals) - occurs on May 16-17, 2009.  All interested participants are welcome.

Visit www.washingtonsart.org for more informtation.

ART GOTTFRIED

RT GOTTFRIED

BURBANK, CA - LEG Up News is sad to inform our readers that lifelong horseman Art Gottfried passed away on Sunday, December 21 in the presence of his immediate family. Art is survived by Rosalie, his wife of many years, his children, grandchildren, and his beloved dog, Ralphie.

Services for Art will be held on Friday, December 26 at the McCormick & Sons Mortuary in Laguna Hills at approximately 10:00 a.m. The address is: 25000 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Hills, CA 92653. To confirm the exact time, please call the funeral home at (949) 768-0933.

Rosalie asks that any remembrances in Art’s name be made to one of Art’s favorite charities, either City of Hope ( https://secure.cityofhope.org/DONATE/Main/GeneralDonation.aspx)  or the Humane Society (https://secure.hsus.org/01/makeadonation?qp_source=gabam3). Art valued the care he received at City of Hope, and he was a passionate advocate of animals. Art was also a past president of the California Professional Horseman’s Association, and they accept donations to their charitable arm, the CPHA Foundation (http://www.cpha.org/Foundation/index.htm).

Art was well known throughout the hunter/jumper sport for his lifelong involvement, and he was probably best known as a USEF Steward.

Condolences may be mailed to Rosalie Gottfried at: 33611 Circula Corona, Dana Point, CA 92629, or sent via e-mail to: legupnews@aol.com. All e-mails will be gathered and sent to Rosalie.

Important Changes at Three Treasures Farms

Three Treasures Farms non-profit is having a series of clothing fundraisers in order to raise money for the remodeling needed for their new facility. All clothing is high quality and durability. It was tested by the board members who have owned the various clothing now available to the public for more than a year. Three Treasures Farms is a non-profit committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of performance horses and working with disadvantaged children. For more information please visit our web site at www.threetreasuresfarms.

To order clothing please email us at threetreasuresfarms@gmail.com and make sure we have a phone number and address.

Thanks in advance for your help.

NATIONAL WALKING HORSE ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lexington, Ky. (December 22, 2008) – The National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) today announced the appointment of Vanessa D. Crowe as the organization’s new executive director. She will assume the position January 2, 2009.

With more than 35 years of marketing and equine industry experience, Vanessa brings extensive knowledge and skills that will contribute to NWHA’s growth. In her most recent position as executive director of United Mountain Horse, Inc., she oversaw a significant increase in membership. During that seven-year-tenure, Vanessa managed shows, judging and DQP programs and developed and integrated programs, publications, national and regional promotions and educational venues for the organization.

“Many qualified candidates expressed interest in NWHA and in the position. Vanessa’s energy, experience and deep knowledge of the equine industry and of the gaited horse set her apart. These qualities are assets that, when combined with the momentum we’ve built over the past few years, will help NWHA achieve its position as one of the premier equine associations,” says Lori Snyder-Lowe, president of NWHA. “I am confident that her fresh approach will serve NWHA and its members well and propel it to the next level of financial and membership growth.”

The daughter of a Walking Horse trainer and an accomplished equestrian in her own right, Crowe has spent her life around Walking Horses appreciating the natural athleticism and shares NWHA’s values and mission.

“It is an honor to become part of this esteemed organization and a privilege to serve as executive director,” says Crowe. “NWHA has enjoyed steady progress and continues to remain true to its vision. I plan to continue both, but also further the growth of the organization by positioning the naturally gaited Walking Horse as a breed of merit, and NWHA as the leading organization dedicated to the breed.”

About the National Walking Horse Association
The National Walking Horse Association was founded 10 years ago to advocate the unique qualities, natural abilities and versatility of the Tennessee Walking Horse. The non-profit organization promotes educational and recreational activities while encouraging responsible care and the positive welfare of the breed. For more information, visit www.nwha.com

University of Kentucky working with state to resolve CEM cases

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 21, 2008) – A 16-year-old Quarter Horse stallion residing in Kentucky tested positive for the causal agent of Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM), a bacterium Taylorella equigenitalis, on Dec. 10. CEM is considered a foreign animal disease that occurs in breeding populations in various countries in the world. The test was performed by the University of Kentucky Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center (LDDC) and reported to the Kentucky state veterinarian.

According to officials, two additional stallions on the same farm have now also been confirmed positive. The original stallion has completed treatment, and the additional cases are being prepared for treatment. All horses identified as at risk of exposure are under quarantine and undergoing testing. An update can be found on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture Web site at www.kyagr.com. Researchers at UK’s Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center and LDDC have been informed and are working closely with state veterinarian Robert Stout and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
According to Gluck researchers, CEM is a sexually transmitted disease that only affects members of the equine family. It does not present an immediate risk of spread to the general horse population as long as state and federal regulations are followed. The disease can only be transmitted by sexual contact and is most frequently spread when a stallion breeds a mare. It may also be transmitted through artificial insemination or contact with contaminated hands or any objects that have been in contact with the genitalia of infected stallions or mares. Stallions are symptom-free carriers of the bacterium Taylorella equigenitalis. Infected mares can develop inflammation of the reproductive tract, which can result in temporary infertility.

Researchers said there are no reports of transmission of infection to pregnant mares except at the time of breeding. Only two confirmed cases of abortion due to this bacterium have been reported in the past 30 years. CEM can be treated effectively with a wide range of disinfectants and antibiotics. Strict hygiene should be observed after contact with horses that test positive for Taylorella equigenitalis. CEM is not known to be transmissible to humans.

Mares imported into Kentucky from CEM affected countries, or mares found to be infected, are required by federal and state regulations to undergo testing and treatment and remain in quarantine until confirmed negative for Taylorella equigenitalis. All stallions imported into Kentucky from a CEM affected country, or stallions found to be infected, are required to be quarantined and to undergo similar testing and treatment until they are determined negative for the causal agent of CEM.

In contrast to other infectious diseases, such as equine herpesvirus neurologic disease, equine influenza or equine viral arteritis, CEM is not spread by close physical contact or via airborne transmission, said Gluck researchers. The horses that have been confirmed carriers were moved to Kentucky from various states prior to the start of the 2008 breeding season. While located in Kentucky, there has been no history of any of these stallions having live covers.

State and federal control measures have been implemented on the affected farm, and there is currently no risk of spread to other horses in Kentucky. An investigation remains ongoing, and while additional horses from the farm may test positive, there is no evidence suggesting that the organism has spread beyond the group of mares and stallions first identified as at risk of exposure.

Champions of the 2008 NCI/NCHA World Championship Futurity, held November 22-December 14, 2008 in Fort Worth, Texas:

Futurity Open:

In his first year as a professional trainer, Beau Galyean won the Futurity Open at Fort Worth's Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum on December 14. Metallic Cat is by High Brow Cat out of the Peptoboonsmal mare Chers Shadow. He is owned by Alvin Fults of Amarillo, Texas. Galyean follows in the footsteps of his father, Jody, who won the 1986 NCHA Futurity on Royal Silver King, and his brother, Wesley, who won with Spots Hot in 2004. Beau Galyean won the Limited Non-Pro division of the NCHA Futurity in 2004 with Double Down Merada

The cattle had been tough, but Galyean scored set the high-score in the first set with 222 points. In the end, Metallic Cat became the fifth horse sired by High Brow Cat to win the NCHA Futurity in the last six years.

“The first cow was in a good position, and we built from that,” said Galyean, who had gone through college on a golf scholarship. He made cutting accomplishments as the 2004 NCHA Futurity Non-Pro Reserve Champion on Highlightcat and the Limited Champion on Double Down Merada.

“The second cow was all the way on the back wall. As I started brining him through the herd, I remembered Wesley telling me about the herd that split on Spots Hot, when he won the Futurity. The luckiest part was when I turned around and my third cow was waiting for me, kind of saying, Cut Me. The Futurity gods were looking down on me. It was a tough cutting.”

Beau Galyean, 28, gave up his non-pro status last summer to become a trainer, and became the third member of his immediate family to win the NCHA Futurity. His younger brother, Wes, won the 2004 NCHA Open Futurity on Spots Hot, and their father, Jody, won the event in 1986 on Royal Silver King.

The owner of Metallic Cat, Alvin Fults, is a commodities broker from Amarillo, Texas. He bought the colt following the 2007 NCHA Futurity. “This horse is so pretty, and has so much eye appeal,” said Galyean. “He’s been extremely trainable and, more than anything, a really smart horse.”
Futurity Non-Pro:

Craig Crumpler of Wichita Falls, Texas, won the Non-Pro at the $4.2 million NCI Building Systems NCHA Futurity on Friday. Crumpler rode Woodys Bad Boy, a son of Nitas Wood.

Futurity Amateur:

Chuck Drummond, a third generation rancher from Pawhuska, Oklahoma, won the Amateur Futurity with a score of 215 points, riding My Darlin Girl, by Dualing Freckles. He also won the Senior division championship.

Summary of Champions:
Open: Alvin Fults' Metallic Cat, ridden by Beau Galyean..
Non-Pro: Craig Crumpler riding Woodys Bad Boy.
Amateur: Chuck Drummond riding My Darlin Girl.
Open Limited: Scott Cusick's Hay Maker, ridden by R. L. Chartier.
Non-Pro Limited: William Cowan riding Catty Hawk.
Non-Pro Senior: Dub Leeth riding Duals Fancy Cat.
Amateur Senior: Chuck Drummond riding My Darlin Girl

The National Cutting Horse Association is made up of over 17,500 members across the United States with a wide range of backgrounds. The sport of cutting has roots in Western ranching traditions, where good horses were a necessity for everyday ranch work and cattle handling. From cowgirls to CEOs, from firefighters to professional football players, the common ground is often in the cutting arena. Each year more than 2,200 NCHA-approved events are held throughout the country with more than $43 million in prize money awarded. To learn more about the National Cutting Horse Association and the sport of cutting, call 817-244-6188 or visit www.nchacutting.com.

Hood River business owner in national limelight for eco-friendly equestrian apparel

Hood River, OR—Kerri Kent has a vision for the future of a sustainable planet. Through her efforts as a designer and owner of a new equestrian apparel line called g.r.a.s.s.—which stands for green riding apparel for style and sustainability—she’s gained national attention in not only the horse industry, but as a leader in green business practices.

Kent was featured in the December 2008 issue of Western & English Today, a national equestrian trade publication, in celebration of the first anniversary of g.r.a.s.s.

“We hope that coverage of this kind will inspire other companies, both in the equestrian industry and across the board, to take a look at their business practices and strive to do more for the environment,” says Kent about the article on her business. “It’s really great to have this kind of support and enthusiasm for what we’re doing.”

With a proven track record for over two decades as a leading equestrian apparel designer and manufacturer, Kent is well-known for her company Kerrits which makes innovative, technically functional clothing.

But she has a vision for the future to find sustainable solutions for generations to come, believing that changes we make today have lasting implications for tomorrow. And with that in mind, g.r.a.s.s. was launched. The eco-friendly collection was created to get people thinking about how they live their lives and go about their day.

Kent also gives back to the global community by being a member of “1% for the Planet”—a rapidly growing network of companies committed to inspiring companies to use practices that create a healthier planet. Hundreds of companies are donating one percent to more than 1,500 environmental organizations.

Since the article ran in Western & English Today, g.r.a.s.s. has been contacted by the Western Environmental Law Center who is a recipient of funds from “1% for the Planet.” They’re asking g.r.a.s.s. to earmark some of their funds for them as they work to restore and protect western wild lands and to advocate for a healthy environment on behalf of communities throughout the west.

To read the Western & English Today article, click here.

Since 1986 Kerrits Equestrian Apparel has been committed to providing innovative, functional performance apparel, designed and constructed specifically for the unique demands of women who ride and love horses. The company is based in Hood River, Oregon. For more information, go to www.kerrits.com or call 1.800.274.7946.

SAVE THE DATE – Courtney King-Dye/Anne Gribbons JR/YR Symposium For the Benefit of “The Dressage Foundation” and the “Renee Isler Dressage Support Fun

WESTFORD, MA (12/17/08): Olympian Courtney King-Dye and (O) Judge Anne Gribbons will be the featured clinicians for a fundraising event to be held at Settlement Farm in Townsend, MA. This educational forum will take place on May 1 - 3, 2009. Eight Junior and Young Riders will have the opportunity to work with King-Dye, and the symposium will be opened to auditors on Saturday May 2 and Sunday May 3. Sunday will feature open warm-ups with King-Dye and a judged test by (O) Judge, Anne Gribbons. Auditors will be provided with immediate test results and an explanation of the scoring. The riders will be chosen by a selection committee.

A dinner and dancing, open to the public, will be held on Saturday evening at The Stagecoach Inn in Groton, MA. King-Dye, Lendon Gray, Gil Merrick and Renee Isler will be featured speakers. Raffle and Silent Auction items will be available for purchase. All proceeds from the symposium and dinner will support the Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund administered by the Dressage Foundation (www.dressagefoundation.org). Guidelines and applications for the riders will be available www.islerdressage.com. For more information please contact Renee Isler at mailto:mreneisler@aol.com, 978-257-2754 (cell). This interactive opportunity is sure to be instructive and educational for all who attend.

Juliet Reid Elected President of the Washington International Horse Show

Top Equestrian Georgina Bloomberg and Animal Planet Executive Vicki Lowell Join Board of Directors

Gaithersburg, MD - December 19, 2008 - Juliet Reid, of Washington, D.C., was elected President of the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), a leading international equestrian competition, at the December meeting of the Board of Directors. Now in its 51st year, the WIHS is held annually at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.

"I am honored to be elected President of this 50-year-old Washington institution. The WIHS holds the distinction of being the last of the classic, major metropolitan horse shows in the U.S. and the pinnacle of the equestrian calendar. We are committed to the survival of this historic horse show and have a huge task before us. I am confident that we have the strong, committed Board and the team assembled that is necessary to make that happen," said Reid.

Newly elected to the Board were Georgina Bloomberg, of New York, N.Y., and Victoria Lowell, of Brookeville, MD. Bloomberg is a leading equestrian competing in national and international show jumping events. Lowell is Senior Vice President of Marketing for Animal Planet Media, where she helped consult on production of the Animal Planet equestrian programming-HorsePower: Road to the Maclay, the Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup and the World Sporthorse Championships series. Lowell is a lifelong equestrian and rides as an amateur in the jumper divisions.

At the Board meeting, Ken Cort, of Potomac, MD, was re-elected Vice President and Kirsten Pollin of Washington, D.C. was re-elected Secretary. Anne Poulson, also of Washington, D.C., was elected Treasurer. Outgoing President, Jorge Carnicero, McLean, VA, will serve as Chairman.

Reid was instrumental in developing the WIHS' partnership with Autism Speaks in 2007, which has yielded nearly $385,000 for autism research over two years. "We want to continue to build our partnership with Autism Speaks and also reach out to and work with additional charity and community partners. We also are looking at various ways to expand our relationship with the local business community and the city. One of my personal goals for 2009 is to create a show that is an inclusive event for all to enjoy."

Reid first joined the WIHS Board in 2007 and was elected Treasurer in 2008. "I am committed to helping the WIHS get a solid foothold even in this time of financial uncertainty," said Reid. "WIHS is vital to the equestrian industry and is a proving ground for young riders, who will form our future Olympic, Pan American and world championship teams. I would like to see it reach its full potential."

Born in Ocala, FL, and raised in New York City, Reid was exposed to horses as a child but the love and dedication to equestrian sport came later when she began to travel on the equestrian show circuit with her daughter, Chloe, a nationally ranked rider. After years of attending these shows, Reid made it her goal to give back to the sport that gives so much to her daughter who loves it so dearly. The sport also has been a family tradition. Reid's mother, Charlotte Weber, is a leading thoroughbred breeder, trainer and owner. Her brother, Chester Weber, is a member of the U.S. Equestrian Team and six-time U.S. National Champion in Four in Hand Combined Driving. In addition, she sits on the board of Live Oak Foundation, which supports equestrian sport. Reid is a graduate of Brown University. She and her husband, Sam, and their two children live in Washington, D.C.

About WIHS
An equestrian tradition since 1958, the Washington International Horse Show brings top horses and riders from the U.S. and abroad, including Olympic champions, to the nation's capital to compete for more than $400,000 in prize money and championship titles. About 500 horses participate in show jumping, hunters, equitation and dressage events during the six-day show. Special exhibitions, unique shopping in 55 boutiques and a Pony Pavilion with free pony rides round out this family-friendly show. Since its debut, the Washington International has been a popular Washington, D.C. fixture visited by presidents, first ladies, celebrities, business and military leaders, as well as countless horse enthusiasts of all ages.

The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information, visit http://www.wihs.org. The 51st WIHS will be held October 20-25, 2009.

Palomino Horse Breeders of America is currently offering Registrations & Transfers at a reduced rate.

This special offer is good from December 15th, 2008 through February 1, 2009 (POSTMARK). Membership is required to register or transfer ownership of a horse. After February 1, 2009 this offer will expire & PHBA will reinstate the regular registration & transfer fee schedule.

To register your horse:

Complete the PHBA registration application.

Submit a photocopy (front & back) of your AQHA registration certificate showing showing YOU as the owner of record.

Complete the membership application.

Enclose appropriate membership fee(s) (See Membership Form) and $35 registration fee REGARDLESS of the AGE of the horse.

35MM OR 35MM quality digital photos (full front, back, and each side plus close-ups of white markings, scars or brands) are required on all APHA registered horses.

Photos for other breed associations maybe requested as well.

To transfer your horse:
Fill out the PHBA transfer application with as much information as you can.

Submit a photocopy (front & back) of your AQHA registration certificate showing YOU as the owner of record.

Complete the membership application.

Enclose appropriate membership fee(s) (See Membership Form) and $15 transfer fee REGARDLESS of the NUMBER OF PREVIOUS OR TARDY transfers.

Email Shirley at registration@palominohba.com or call 918-438-1234 ext. 16

SmartPak™ Signs on as Title Sponsor of the Training Level Three-Day Series

The USEA is pleased to welcome SmartPak as the new title sponsor of the Training Level Three-Day Series, a wonderful series designed to educate Training level riders on the values of the long-format event.

“SmartPak is so thrilled to sign on as the title sponsor of the SmartPak USEA Training Level Three-Day Series. We feel that these events exemplify the values that we as a company try to align ourselves with...excellence in horsemanship and horse care. The educational aspect of the events is truly unique and provides an opportunity for talented adult amateurs or young riders moving up through the ranks to experience the long format before reaching the one star level, all in an educational supportive environment,” said Colby Balazs, Vice President of Marketing at SmartPak.

“Personally, one of my primary goals for the coming competition year is to successfully complete a training three-day. I think it will be an incredible building block both in my own education as a rider as well as my horse's education. So, I am both personally and professionally invested in the success of training three-day and looking forward to SmartPak working with the USEA to grow the program,” added Balazs.

Cindy DePorter, Training Three-Day Chairperson and co-organizer of the Waredaca Area II Adult Rider Training Three-Day Event, was thrilled with SmartPak’s new sponsorship. “We are very excited about SmartPak sponsoring the Training Level Three-Day Series. It is very gratifying that the Training Three-Day as a concept is being fully embraced as a destination competition with which many USEA competitors now aspire. It is wonderful that a national, well respected company such as SmartPak agrees with the importance of the Training Three-Day and is willing to provide that sponsorship! We salute SmartPak and welcome them as one of our major sponsors!”

Jo Whitehouse, CEO of the USEA, said, “The USEA extends a warm welcome to SmartPak, and we are delighted to have such a wonderful company sponsor this educational series. Eventers take great pride in the health and well-being of their horses and we encourage our members to support SmartPak.”

Take advantage of this exciting new partnership to learn all about the innovative products SmartPak has to offer, such as their patented daily dose SmartPaks™, broad range of equine and canine supplements, and top-of-the-line tack and equipment.

The USEA has issued rules and guidelines for the Training Three-Day Series, while still maintaining the important educational aspects of the series. Look forward to exciting changes on the Training Level Three-Day Series page on the USEA site in the coming weeks as we move forward in the promotion of these events in 2009.

Currently, there are ten T3DE’s signed up for 2009, with a few more possibly signing up in the coming months. Interested in hosting a T3DE? Contact Cindy DePorter, the USEA’s Chairperson for this series at Cindy.DePorter@ncmail.net or contact the USEA Headquarters at 703-779-0440.

The 2009 series winner will receive a free year of SmartPaks ($1200 value) and we will also be contributing prizes to each of the 10 venues slated to host T3DE’s in this coming year. SmartPak will be joining the other T3DE sponsors Stackhouse Saddles, Maui Jim Sunglasses, and Nunn Finer.

About SmartPak

SmartPak Equine was founded in 1999 with the purpose of simplifying the administration of nutritional supplements and medications to horses. The patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system has been adopted by thousands of barns and horse owners across the country, who value knowing that their supplements will be fed correctly. It has been embraced by riders from all disciplines and all levels, including seven Olympic medalists. In addition to the SmartPak supplement system, the company offers a broad line of horse health and rider items, dog supplies, and equine and canine pharmacy items sold through the company’s catalog and Web site. In 2006, SmartPak was named to Inc. Magazine’s list of the 500 fastest growing private companies for the second straight year and is the only equine company ever named to the list. The company has also been honored with a Best Bosses award presented by Fortune Small Business and Winning Workplaces. SmartPak also operates a retail store in Natick, MA. For more information, visit www.SmartPak.com.

SMARTPAK™ NAMED A TOP PLACE TO WORK

PLYMOUTH, Mass. (Dec. 19, 2008) –At SmartPak, employees are happy to be at work. So happy that they voted in their animal health care company to the Boston Globe’s annual “Top Places to Work.” SmartPak was ranked among the Globe’s Top 100 Places to Work in Massachusetts, joining the ranks of other area businesses that graced the list in 2008 including Genzyme Corp., Staples and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

“We are so proud to have been named one of the best companies to work for in Massachusetts,” said SmartPak CEO Paal Gisholt. “Since starting SmartPak, we've been committed to building a positive working environment for our employees. We sincerely believe our team is the real magic behind SmartPak’s success and responsible for our continued growth. Their happiness is of the utmost importance, which is why this award means so much to us."

SmartPak was also named a Top Workplace by Fortune Small Business and Winning Workplaces in 2006 and was named to Inc. Magazine's list of the 500 fastest growing private companies 2 years in a row - the only equine company ever named to the list. And despite a gloomy economic outlook at a time when many companies are facing impending layoffs, SmartPak is still hiring and looking for talented, independent thinkers who thrive in a hard working and fun corporate culture.
The Globe’s Top Places to Work recognizes the most progressive companies in the state based on employee opinions about company direction, execution, leadership, pay and benefits, training and career development and values and ethics. The rankings are based on survey information collected by Workplace Dynamics, an independent company specializing in employee engagement and retention. The rankings include private firms, as well as public companies, non profits and other institutions. Results were weighted based on the size of the company. Online, the report can be found at www.boston.com/business.

SmartPak is committed to helping horse and dog owners improve the care and enjoyment of their animals by providing them with simple, innovative solutions and exceptional service. To learn more about SmartPak, visit their Web site at www.SmartPak.com or call them at 1-800-461-8898.

About SmartPak Equine
SmartPak Equine was founded in 1999 with the purpose of simplifying the administration of nutritional supplements and medications to horses. The patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system has been adopted by thousands of barns and horse owners across the country, who value knowing that their supplements will be fed correctly. It has been embraced by riders from all disciplines and all levels, including seven Olympic medalists. In addition to the SmartPak supplement system, the company offers a broad line of horse health and rider items, dog supplies, and equine and canine pharmacy items sold through the company’s catalog and Web site. In 2006, SmartPak was named to Inc. Magazine’s list of the 500 fastest growing private companies for the second straight year and is the only equine company ever named to the list. The company has also been honored with a Top Workplaces award presented by Fortune Small Business and Winning Workplaces. SmartPak also operates a retail store in Natick, MA. For more information, visit www.SmartPak.com.

AQHA Horses Lost in Tragic Fire in Maine

Hi All,

Not sure if you heard but our trainers barn, Spruce Hill Farm in Windham, ME" burnt down last week with all our horses, tack and dreams in the middle of the night - freak accident that they think a chipmunk chewed through a wire in the rafters that set off the fire. The only solace we have been able to give all our kids is that the vet said all the horses in the barn died of smoke inhalation in their sleep and were not burned to death and it all happened before anyone knew the barn was on fire at 4:30 am. This has obviously devastated us all since they were all a big part of our family not just mere animals to us. Below are some clips of the fire and news stories.

http://www.wgme.com/News/story_detail/story_detail_12.shtml

http://www.wmtw.com/mostpopular/18242619/detail.html

http://www.wmtw.com/video/18242821/index.html

Everyone has always been so generous with the Maine Youths in the past and this barn held 75% of Maine's 2008 American Quarter Horse Congress Team in it. The kids are in need of everything from work boots, work/show saddles, work bridles, bits - just everything they owned and loved. If you can offer the kids anything on the tack side used or new, whether it's 1 work book, 1 bell boot, a used ripped old horse blanket, they would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you again and the kids appreciate you and your family so ever much.

We are also selling raffle tickets and setting up a concert fundraiser for them. Raffle tickets are available to all. If you'd like more information about this and the raffle items, please do not hesitate to contact me at Moxiesbling@Maine.rr.com.

Regards,

Jill Noyes

Custom Point Calibration Service Offered by Dickson For Temperature/Humidity Monitoring Safeguard

(www.dicksondata.com) Horse breeders using data loggers or chart recorders for environmental monitoring critical to healthy stable environments can now call Dickson Calibration Specialists at 1-800-757-3747 or write DicksonCSR@DicksonData.com for no-charge consultations on custom point calibrations best-matched to application requirements. Custom point calibrations, a.k.a. User Specified Temperature Points are specific pointsselected for calibration to ensure that a data logger or chart recorder is operating correctly in the operating range where it is typically used.

Dan Gawel, Manufacturing Manager comments, “Many data logger and chart recorder users do not realize that there are several options for calibration methods and that it is important to ensure that the calibration method selected provides the validated and certified calibration standard that is required. Dickson’s Calibration Specialists are available to help users weigh options and find the best solution in terms of cost and accuracy.”

For a summary sheet on how to choose between 1-point, 3-point and Custom Point calibrations with or without “before” data see http://www.dicksondata.com/info/calibration_points.php .

Dickson Company and its web portal www.dicksondata.com offer the widest selection of temperature data loggers, chart recorders, and alarm thermometers available in the world. Inquiries can be directed to Dickson customer service at dicksoncsr@dicksondata.com, or calling 800-757-3747 or +1-630-543-3747 outside the US, FAX +630-543-0498 or by writing Dickson, 930 South Westwood Avenue, Addison, IL 60101, USA.

USEF Offices Closed December 22 – December 26; January 1-2, 2009

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) offices will be closed Monday, December 22 through Friday, December 26, 2008. The USEF offices will also be closed Thursday, January 1, 2009 – Friday, January 2, 2009. The USEF will return to regular office hours on Monday, January 5, 2009.

The USEF would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays and best wishes in the New Year.

USEF Announces US Show Jumping Team for the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival

By Stacey Meier

Lexington, KY— The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announces the United States Show Jumping Team for the Australian Youth Olympic Festival (AYOF). This multi-sport international event follows the structure of Olympic Games as closely as possible and draws athletes from across the world. The competition will be held January 14-18, 2009 at the Sydney International Equestrian Center.

Invited nations include Australia, Great Britain, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Sweden and the United States. Each nation is invited to bring a team of four athletes and the athletes must be 15-20 years old.

Representing the U.S. will be Taylor Land, 16, from Atlanta, GA, whose accomplishments include winning the 2008 Adequan/USEF National Junior Jumper Individual Championships along with being a part of the winning Zone 4 team at the Adequan/USEF National Junior Jumper Team Championships; Mavis Spencer, 17, from Santa Monica, CA, with show highlights including taking second in the 2008 Adequan/USEF National Junior Jumper Individual Championships along with competing in the Adequan/USEF National Junior Jumper Team Championships, and took first in the $25,000 High Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic at the Sacramento International Horse Show; Kylie Wright, 16, from Sparks-Glencoe, Maryland, who placed fifth last year in her first national Grand Prix and Jennifer Waxman, 17, Chagrin Falls, OH, who represented Zone 5 in the Adequan/USEF National Junior Jumper Championships and also won the 2008 Junior Jumper $25,000 Calvin Klein Jumping Derby at the Hampton Classic. The Chef d’Equipe for the U.S. team is Dick Carvin from La Canada, CA.

The Australian Youth Olympic Festival will be conducted in accordance with FEI rules and include a Warm-up Competition, a Table C, a Nations Cup and an Individual Final. The event is with borrowed horses (per FEI Art 264) supplied by Australia as the host country. All horses will be put into a pool to be drawn out by the teams.

For more information about the US Show Jumping Team for the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival, please contact Jennifer Haydon, USEF’s Director of Show Jumping, National Programs, at (859) 225-6911 or via email at jhaydon@usef.org.

For more information about the Australian Youth Olympic Festival, please take the following links: http://www.usef.org/Contentpage2.aspx?id=natjumping or http://www.usef.org/Contentpage2.aspx?id=ayof

Whatcom Human Society Facts

From the Whatcom Humane Society

Whatcom Humane Society Statement of Principle:
The Whatcom Humane Society believes that all animals, as sentient beings, have value beyond economic measurements and are entitled to legal, moral, and ethical consideration and protection.

Vision:
All animals in our community are treated with kindness, respect, and compassion.

Mission:
The Whatcom Humane Society:

Acts as an advocate on behalf of animals and their welfare;

Provides for the well-being of our community’s animals who are abandoned, injured, subject to unfair or cruel treatment, or otherwise in need;

Cultivates in the people of our community an awareness of and respect for the animals whose world we share.

Targeted Results:
All domestic animals in Whatcom County have permanent, responsible, and loving homes. All animals, regardless of species, are treated with respect and compassion

WHS operates a state-of-the-art shelter facility and resource center

WHS is widely recognized and respected as a core service in the community

WHS educational programs promote responsible animal care and prevent abuse, neglect, and overpopulation.

Whatcom Humane Society History
The Whatcom Humane Society (WHS) has been caring for animals throughout Whatcom County since 1902.

As the oldest non-profit animal welfare organization in Whatcom County, WHS is committed to caring for any animal in need. As an open-admission shelter, the dedicated staff and volunteers at the Whatcom Humane Society cared for over 3,500 homeless, unwanted and abused animals in 2007.

The Whatcom Humane Society has a long-standing, positive working relationship with the City of Bellingham, having provided 24 hour animal control and rescue services since 1973.

In addition to providing these services for the City of Bellingham, WHS also has animal control contracts with the Cities of Blaine, Ferndale, Sumas and Everson/Nooksack as well as Whatcom County (with the exception of the city of Lynden).

Whatcom Humane Society
Summary of Programs and Services
Founded in 1902, WHS is the oldest non-profit animal welfare organization in Whatcom County.

Open-admission shelter, the Whatcom Humane Society turns no animal away regardless of his/her age, temperament or medical condition.

Provides 24 hour animal control and rescue services Whatcom County.

Investigates cases of animal neglect & cruelty.

Interactive Adoption Program for homeless animals that includes counseling new adopters on

responsible pet care and a variety of animal behavior issues.

Animal Wellness Program that provides health exam, spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, flea medication, de-worming, license or id tag and microchip identification prior to adoption.

Staff veterinarians provide in-house veterinary services for shelter animals five days a week.

Work with local wildlife rescue groups to pick-up and transport injured wildlife.

Implementation of Safe-Pet Program, providing short-term pet safekeeping for victims of domestic violence.

Extensive Humane Education programs in Whatcom County schools and libraries that educate children (K-12) on the importance of showing kindness and compassion towards animals.

Community Outreach programs including working with local media to showcase animals available for adoption, presence at local street fairs and festivals and networking with other area non-profits and businesses to foster good relations.

Low-cost pet vaccination), microchip and dog license clinics in low-income neighborhoods.

Creation of a Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) for low-income residents in need.

Production of PetWatch, the WHS weekly television show that features animals available for adoption, segments on relevant animal welfare issues and information for Whatcom County pet owners. The show airs 3 times a day on local Comcast stations.

Operates “Paws Awhile”, the WHS store located at 1200 - 10th Street in Historic Fairhaven that features new and quality used items donated by the community. The shop is staffed entirely by volunteers.

Pet Food Bank providing pet food to the pets of low-income residents in need. WHS supplies pet food to the Bellingham Food Bank, Blaine Food Bank, Lummi Indian Reservation Community Center, Bellingham Meals on Wheels and the Hope House.

Interactive website (www.whatcomhumane.org) where visitors can view animals available for adoption, download dog license applications, find information on off-leash dog areas in Bellingham and learn how to humanely deal with native wildlife. The website receives almost 9000 “hits” a day.

Working relationships with other animal welfare organizations including the Alternative Humane Society, King County Humane Society, PAWS, N.O.A.H. and Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue.

Foster program that houses animals with special needs and/or severe medical issues in volunteer homes for care and rehabilitation until animal is ready to return to the shelter.

Challenge of the Americas' Mary Ross and Mason Phelps, Jr. Speak with Collegiate Equestrians

Wellington, FL - December 18, 2008 - This week Mary Ross of Challenge of the Americas and Mason Phelps, Jr. of Phelps Media Group, Inc. International met with Lake Erie College student and newspaper editor Natalie Anderson and others from the school's Equine Studies program. The students visited Wellington to learn more about the many equestrian businesses and facilities based in the horse-savvy area. Anderson is in the Equine Studies program and hopes to have a career in equestrian public relations and marketing. She met with Ross and Phelps to learn more about their experiences in the industry.

Ross founded the Challenge of the Americas, which will be presented in 2009 by the International Polo Club Palm Beach. For eight consecutive years this equestrian event has served as a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, an organization dedicated to preventing and finding a cure for breast cancer through clinical and genetic research in Palm Beach County, the United States, and abroad.

Phelps is president and founder of Phelps Media Group, Inc. International (PMG), one of the foremost equestrian public relations firms in the country. An Olympic veteran, Phelps has managed numerous equestrian events, competitions, and fundraisers over the years, and he is also chairman for the National Horse Show Association of America Ltd. In 2006, Phelps founded PhelpsSports.com, an equestrian news Web site and subsidiary of PMG.

While in Wellington, the group of 15 college students spent time touring different equestrian facilities and meeting with veterinarians, equine chiropractors, hunter/jumper and dressage riders, and other professionals in the industry. Ross spoke to the group about entrepreneurial leadership, and Ross and Phelps later met with Anderson to answer questions about equestrian public relations and discuss internship opportunities available at PMG and Challenge of the Americas.

The Lake Erie College students who made the trip to Wellington are majoring in one of four areas of the Equine Studies Program. These include Equine Entrepreneurship, Equine Facility Management, Equestrian Trainer/Teacher, and Biology with a Pre-Veterinary Concentration.

Backcountry Horsemen of Washington receives grant to maintain trails that provide a backcountry experience

Backcountry Horsemen of Washington was awarded a grant of $75,000.00 from the National Recreation Trails program, NRTP General category. The grant was awarded by the Recreation and Conservation Funding Board (RCFB), and will be used for the following:

The Backcountry Horsemen of Washington will use this grant to replace worn out tools and buy needed safety equipment and supplies. The Backcountry Horsemen regularly maintain 1,500 miles of trail each year in the Olympic, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie, Gifford Pinchot, Wenatchee, Okanogan, Colville and Umatilla National Forests. Volunteers also pack in supplies such as gravel and tools for other volunteer groups and for the Federal Forest Service. The Backcountry Horsemen will contribute $80,000.00 in donated labor.

There were eighty-four applications submitted for consideration in the National Recreation Trails Program, NRTP General category. Each project went through an evaluation process prior to being recommended for funding.

Funding for the National Recreation Trails Program, NRTP General category comes from a portion of the federal gasoline tax attributed to recreation occurring on non-gasoline tax supported road. Backcountry Horsemen of Washington will leverage local contributions totaling $80,000.00 with grant monies to implement the project. Total estimated project cost is $155,000.00. RCFB is the State’s administrator of the grant program.

USEF Partners with Moxie Equestrian as “Official Awards Cooler” for 2009

By Stacey Meier

Lexington, KY— The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announces a new partnership for 2009 with Moxie Equestrian, Inc. as the “Official Awards Cooler of the USEF.” Custom-made Moxie coolers will be awarded at all USEF National Championships and to all Horse of the Year Grand Champions. Moxie’s coolers are unique in their use of high performance fabrics that provide absolute functionality.

“Moxie Equestrian is extremely pleased to be selected as the Official Supplier of Award Coolers the United States Equestrian Federation,” said Tammy Barber, president and co-owner of Moxie Equestrian, Inc. “Moxie is very serious about the absolute functionality of our high-performance fabrics. Our line of exceptional easy-care coolers are beautifully designed and are simply stunning on the horse. It’s easy to see champions with Moxie.”

Moxie will offer USEF members a 10% discount on all purchases on the Moxie Equestrian website, www.moxieequestrian.com. This includes free UPS Ground Shipping when the Moxie/USEF MemberPerks number is used (must be in Continental United States to be valid).

USEF Announces 2009 Triple Point Competitions for Farnam®/Platform™ USEF Horse of the Year Program

By Stacey Meier

Lexington, KY— The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce the 2009 triple point competitions for the Saddlebred, Roadster and Hackney/Harness divisions. Each year, the corresponding discipline committees vote to assign “triple point” status to a competition in each of the 12 regions. Points won at any of these designated competitions will count as triple points for the Farnam®/Platform™ USEF Horse of the Year program.

Saddlebred Division

Region 1 #317874 UPHA Chapter One May

Region 2 #711 NWSA Fall Classic and Futurity September

Region 3/4 #1595 Wisconsin Futurity September

Region 5 #600 UPHA/American Royal November

Region 6/7 #5674 Oklahoma Centennial April

Region 8 #423 Rock Creek June

Region 9 #3355 Asheville Lions Charity May

Region 10 #370 Southeastern Charity September

Region 11 #5131 ASHAV September

Region 12 #2922 UPHA Spring Premiere April



Roadster Division



Region 1 #317874 UPHA Chapter One May

Region 2 #565 Oregon State Fair August

Region 3/4 #3288 F.A.S.H. Spring May

Region 5 #343 Midwest Charity June

Region 6/7 #5674 Oklahoma Centennial April

Region 8 #152 Lexington Junior League July

Region 9 #3355 Asheville Lions Charity May

Region 10 #370 Southeastern Charity September

Region 11 #5131 ASHAV September

Region 12 #2922 UPHA Spring Premiere April



Hackney/Harness Division



Region 1 #317874 UPHA Chapter One May

Region 2 #711 NWSA Fall Classic and Futurity September

Region 3/4 #300557 Des Moines Springfest May

Region 5 #4193 Mid-America Mane Event October

Region 6/7 #5674 Oklahoma Centennial April

Region 8 #330 All American Horse Classic September

Region 9 #3355 Asheville Lions Charity May

Region 10 #370 Southeastern Charity September

Region 11 #201 Devon May

Region 12 #324095 Eastern States Exposition September



Questions regarding triple point shows should be directed to the USEF’s Breeds and Western Department by calling (859) 225-6986.

2008 Group Member Organization (GMO) Award Winners Announced at Adequan/USDF Annual Convention

Lexington, KY (December 18, 2008) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) is pleased to congratulate all of the winners of the 2008 GMO Awards, which were presented during the Board of Governor’s General Assembly at the 2008 Adequan/USDF Annual Convention at the beginning of December. These awards are given annually to recognize outstanding GMO newsletter and Web site layout and design, first person experience articles, general interest articles, and volunteers. Also included was the recognition of three grant recipients from the Ruth Arvanette Memorial Fund that provides financial assistance for deserving individuals to attend the Adequan/USDF Annual Convention. This year’s winners were:

GMO Newsletter Awards:

Layout/Design:

GMOs with less than 75 members: Brazos Association of Classical Horsemanship, Bach Notes, May 2008

GMOs with 75 to 174 members: All Dressage Association, The Rapport, July/August 2008

GMOs with 175 to 499 members: Southern Eventing and Dressage Association, Off Course, July/August 2008

GMOs with 500 or more members: New England Dressage Association, A Tip of the Hat, October 2007

First Person Experience Article: Gold Coast Dressage Association, Flying Changes, January 2008: The Power of One by Tracey Winter

General Interest/Informatory Article: Houston Dressage Society, Collective Remarks, April 2008: Anticipation - Both Natural and Needed by Paul Kathen



GMO Web Site Awards:

Layout/Design:

GMOs with less than 75 members: Dakota Dressage and Eventing (www.dakotadressageandeventing.org)

GMOs with 75 to 174 members: Southern New Hampshire Dressage and Combined Training Association (www.snhdcta.org)

GMOs with 175 to 499 members: Southern Eventing and Dressage Association (www.sedariders.org)

GMOs with 500 or more members: Potomac Valley Dressage Association (www.pvda.org)



Regional GMO Volunteers of the Year:

Region 2: Linda Cooley (Newbury, OH - Northern Ohio Dressage Association)

Region 3: Norma Vollmar (Summerfield, FL - STRIDE)

Region 4: Marylu Weber (Bismarck, ND - Dakota Dressage and Eventing)

Region 5: Tammy Fitch (Paradise Valley, AZ - Arizona Dressage Association)

Region 6: Carolyn Schultz (Anchorage, AK - Alaska Dressage Association)

Region 7: Peggy Klump (Rancho Cucamonga, CA - California Dressage Society)

Region 8: Debra Carr-Kirk (Forestdale, MA - New England Dressage Association)

Region 9: Tim Martin (Waller, TX - Houston Dressage Society)



Ruth Arvanette Memorial Fund Grants

Patricia Morine (Makawao, HI)
Susan Helton (Ringgold, GA)
Laurie Virkstis (Austin, TX)


For more information on GMOs in your area or GMO award programs, please visit the USDF Web site, or contact the USDF GMO Council liaison.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information on USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, e-mail usdressage@usdf.org, or call (859) 971-2277.

Anky van Grunsven, Edward Gal, Steffen Peters to Compete at World Dressage Masters in Wellington in January

WELLINGTON, Fla., Dec. 17--Anky van Grunsven, the most successful musical freestyle competitor in the history of dressage, Holland's Edward Gal who captivated American audiences at the World Cup Finals, and USA Olympian Steffen Peters are among riders to confirm their participation in the inaugural $140,000 Exquis World Dressage Masters CDI5* in Wellington Jan. 28-31, 2009.


Olympians Ashley Holzer of Canada and Hans Peter Minderhoud of The Netherlands have also commited to the event at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.


Details were released Thursday of three days of the World Dressage Masters (WDM) competition and ticket availability . Ticket prices have been set to enable as many dressage fans as possible to share a unique experience.

The WDM has been created so the world's top dressage riders can compete in the Grand Prix to qualify for the Grand Prix Special or the Grand Prix Freestyle for €100,000 (US$144,000) in total prize money at the spectacular PBIEC, a permanent showcase of the finest equestrian sports.

Twenty riders and horses invited from around the world will compete in the Grand Prix during the day on Thursday Jan. 29 for a purse of €10,000 (US$14,400).

The Grand Prix will be held in the International Arena with its newly constructed spectator areas. There is no charge for admission to the Grand Prix. The complete schedule of rides will be announced when it is available.

Van Grunsven, winner of the World Cup for eight years and three times Olympic individual gold, Edward Gal whose electric performance challenged his compatriot and trainer, van Grunsven, at the 2005 World Cup in Las Vegas and the exciting Olympic combination of Steffen Peters and Ravel from the USA will be among the competitors. So, too, will be three-time Olympian Ashley Holzer and Pop Art of Canada and Hans Peter Mindehoud who helped The Netherlands win silver at the 2008 Games.

More riders will be announced in coming weeks.

Friday and Saturday will present two days of unprecedented dressage festivities in the United States with the entire International Arena including the International Club catered by Equestrian Club by Tavern on the Green, VIP boxes and general admission seating available for reservations.

On Friday, van Grunsven will host a clinic with a group of selected riders in the International Arena under lights, an environment that is similar to the 2008 Olympic equestrian venue in which van Grunsven won her third straight Olympic individual gold medal.

The riders in the clinic include young riders, small tour competitors and Grand Prix combinations.

Saturday will be the WDM highlight with the:
* €30,000 ($40,000) Grand Prix Special and,
* €60,000 ($80,000) Grand Prix Freestyle.

Ticket options for WDM are:
-International Club $750 for a table of six per night on Friday night or Saturday night or $1,350 for both nights. Dinner and open bar included. For reservations, call Kiki Umla at 561 793 5867 or 904 607 5541.

--International Club individual seats $125 per night on Friday night and Saturday night or $225 for both nights. Dinner and open bar included. For reservations, call Kiki Umla at 561 793 5867 or 904 607 5541.

-VIP boxes $50 individual seats on Friday night and Saturday night or $90 for both nights. For reservations, call Annette Goyette at 561 793 5867.

-General admission is $20 per night or $35 for two nights. Seating options will be available through equestriansport.com.

The Wellington competition is the inaugural and only U.S. event in the first WDM series. The other competitions are Salzburg Austria, (May 1-3), Munich, Germany, (May 21-24) and Hickstead, Great Britain (July 23-26).

Dr. Kelsey Hart Selected as AAEP Foundation Past Presidents’ Research Fellow

The American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation named Kelsey A. Hart, DVM, DACVIM, as the 2008 AAEP Foundation Past Presidents’ Research Fellow at its 54th Annual Convention Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif.

The $5,000 grant is awarded each year to a student who has excelled in equine research while completing a residency or doctoral program.

Dr. Hart, who is currently enrolled in a combined residency and doctoral program at the University of Georgia, will be introduced to AAEP past presidents during the President’s Advisory meeting Dec.7. She will be presented with a check during the Frank J. Milne State-of-the-Art Lecture Dec. 8.

Dr. Hart’s research project, Hydrocortisone Replacement Therapy in Septic Foals, examines cases of Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal Axis Dysfunction (HPAA) in septic foals. The data, collected in 2006 and 2007, suggests HPAA occurs in as many as 50 percent of critically ill foals and correlates with decreased survival and disease severity in septic foals.

After completing a three-year residency at the University of Georgia, Dr. Hart achieved a board certification in Large Animal Internal Medicine in June 2008. She anticipates completing her doctorate in physiology in July 2010 and will continue a career in academic research.

Dr. Hart received her veterinary degree from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. She is the recipient of the 2008-2010 Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award and the 2008 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Resident Research Award.

The AAEP Foundation established the Past Presidents’ Research Fellow in 2006. The award is made possible through the monetary contributions of AAEP past presidents.

For more information about this program and other scholarships offered through the AAEP Foundation, please visit the scholarship section of the AAEP Foundation’s Web site at www.aaepfoundation.org.

The AAEP Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) 3 organization, was created in 1994 as the charitable arm of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. The AAEP Foundation’s mission is to improve the health and welfare of the horse through the support of research, education, benevolence and the equine community. Since its inception the Foundation has allocated more than $1 million to support education, outreach and research. One hundred percent of all donations directly help horses and veterinarians.

American Quarter Horses Slide onto NBC Sports on January 4

AQHA’s World Show special returns for fourth time

The American Quarter Horse Journal, December 17, 2008 – American Quarter Horses return for the fourth year to nationwide television in another NBC Sports special. The AQHA America’s Horse Championships presented by Bank of America is a special, one-hour broadcast of some of the most exciting action from the FedEx Open competition at the 2008 American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show in Oklahoma City. The show begins at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time/10:30 a.m. Pacific Standard Time on January 4 on local NBC stations.

“We’re changing up the programming a bit to give mainstream viewers a greater appreciation for other events,” said Bill Brewer, AQHA Executive Vice President. “No doubt they’ll come away with a great appreciation of the American Quarter Horse and all of his abilities.”

This year’s episode features exciting working cow horse action, which combines reining agility and the cow sense of the American Quarter Horse, testing a horse’s skills in a way that is similar to ranch work. The event consists of two parts – reining or “dry work” and cow work or “fence work.” In the reining portion, the horse follows a predetermined pattern consisting of lead changes, spins and sliding stops. Then the action really picks up with the cow work. The horse matches wits with the cow – holding it at one end of the arena to show control and then driving the cow down the fence, turning it in both directions. Finally, the horse must move the cow to the center of the arena and circle it in each direction.

Featured competitors include world champions Todd Crawford of Blanchard, Oklahoma; Robbie Schroeder of Gainesville, Texas; Jimmie Paul of Phoenix, Arizona; Ron Emmons of Ione, California; and AQHA all-time leading breeder Carol Rose of Gainesville, Texas.

Highlights from the reining and cutting events also will be featured along with an update about the World Equestrian Games featuring reining, which will be coming to Lexington, Kentucky, in 2010.

The program is presented by Bank of America and includes veteran sports announcer Tim Ryan and jockey-turned-reporter Donna Brothers along with AQHA Professional Horseman Robbie Boyce of Jacksboro, Texas, as analyst. See a special preview of the show on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5bxauZJ3YU.

AQHA’s Web site also will have special information for those interested in the American Quarter Horse lifestyle. Be sure to check out www.aqha.com for more information just for NBC viewers, including the history of the American Quarter Horse, and AQHA services and programs.

Mark your calendar and set your digital video recorder for 1:30 p.m. EST/10:30 a.m. PST on January 4 for the AQHA America’s Horse Championships on NBC Sports!

AQHA news and information is a service of AQHA publications. For more information on The American Quarter Horse Journal, The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal or America’s Horse, visit www.aqha.com/magazines.

Challenge of the Americas Presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach Celebrates Eight-Year History of Fundraising for Breast Cancer Research Foun

WELLINGTON, FL - December 17, 2008 - The Challenge of the Americas Presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach will be held on March 7, 2009, at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, FL. Three teams, each comprised of six dressage riders and two show jumpers, will present a thrilling equestrian sport extravaganza topped off by dining and dancing at the elegant Challenge Gala. For eight consecutive years this event has served as a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, an organization dedicated to preventing and finding a cure for breast cancer through clinical and genetic research in Palm Beach County, the United States, and abroad. The eight-year history of "The Challenge" as it evolved from a three-horse luncheon exhibition to an international 24-horse, two-discipline competition with an evening gala, has been extraordinary.

2002 Breast Cancer Research Foundation Benefit Launches with Pas de Trois
In 2002, Mary Ross of Boca Raton, FL, conceived the idea for a fundraiser to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation after her beloved mother, Jean Cruse, died of breast cancer. Ross formulated an event that would use her skills as an amateur dressage rider and a professional marketer. With her friend and barn-mate Elizabeth Zimski, Ross organized a Pas de Trois - three horse-and-rider combinations performing choreography to a music soundtrack created by Terry Gallo of KlassicKur. Ross arranged for this entertaining dressage exhibition to be held with a luncheon at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby in Loxahatchee, FL. Zimski created the choreography and coached the riders. Ross worked on sponsorship, selling tickets, and promoting the event. The Pas de Trois riders were Betsy Steiner, Patrick Burssens and Lynda Alicki. Notably, all three riders have participated in the event every year since its launch. "The Breast Cancer Research Foundation Benefit," as it was titled then, was held in the main ring at the Derby during the midday break. Tables for the elegant luncheon in the VIP tent, which provided ringside seats, were sold-out. Evelyn Lauder, Senior Vice President of Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. who founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in 1993, attended. The Pas de Trois was the "hit" of the show.

2003 Freestyle Celebration Ups the Ante to Six-Horse Quadrille
The following year at the Palm Beach Dressage Derby, Ross presented the second annual Breast Cancer Research Foundation Benefit showcasing the "2003 Freestyle Celebration" - a performance that now featured six horse-and-rider combinations performing intricate musical freestyle choreography designed by Zimski. Pamela Goodrich, Bent Jensen, and George Williams joined the original three riders. The champagne luncheon was again a sell-out and the quadrille was the talk of the dressage world.

2004 Rock & Roll Musical Quadrille Thrills Nighttime Crowd in Wellington
In 2004, Ross changed locations and presented the musical quadrille at night for the first time. Held at the Palm Beach Polo Equestrian Club in Wellington, FL, the six-horse musical quadrille was performed in the Internationale Arena during the break before the jump-off of the Nations' Cup competition. Dubbed "The Rock & Roll Musical Quadrille presented by Play For T.I.M.E. and International Polo Club Palm Beach," the exhibition featured the six riders from the previous year with choreography by Zimski to rock music arranged by Terry Gallo of KlassicKur. The huge stadium was filled with cheering spectators and the horses and riders delivered an electrifying performance. Patrons and donors enjoyed dinner and the quadrille seated at tables in the VIP tent. With photographers snapping the elegantly clad guests, the dinner proved to be a major event on the Wellington social scene and has remained so ever since.

2005 Challenge of the Americas Introduces Team Competition
For the fourth edition in 2005, Ross introduced a new name, changed the format, and moved to a new venue. The event was christened "The Challenge of the Americas - Celebrating the Sport of Dressage" with an international team competition format. It was held at The Players Club and Palm Beach Polo in Wellington. "The Challenge" consisted of three teams, each comprised of six riders, representing the United States, Latin America, and Canada, competing in musical freestyle formats. Each team presented two Individual Musical Freestyles and one Team Musical Quadrille. This was the first time a Team Quadrille at the Grand Prix level had ever been competed in the United States in this format. Four FEI judges and three celebrity judges presided. Canada won the title of "2005 Dressage Team of the Americas" with a team made up of Shannon Dueck, Jacqueline Brooks, Ashley Holzer, Cheryl Meisner, Susanne Dutt-Roth, Lisette Milner, and Evi Strausser, with choreography by Karen Robinson of Applause Dressage. The elegant dinner/dance in The Players Club after the competition was a sell-out.

2006 Cadillac Challenge of the Americas Introduces Pas de Deux and Quadrille Format
In 2006, Ross moved the event to a larger facility and enlisted the first title sponsor, naming the event "The Cadillac Challenge of the Americas - An International Evening of Musical Freestyles and Team Quadrilles." Zimski, a choreographer since the launch of the event, now added co-chair duties to her role. Tamara Gerber also joined Ross as co-chair of the event and was instrumental in signing on a host of new sponsors and patrons. Gerber and Zimski have continued in their co-chair roles ever since. The "Cadillac Challenge" was held at the brand new International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, which accommodated VIP/Gala guests in box seats and General Admission Ticket holders in special tiered seating overlooking the huge main polo field. Under lights, the exciting format featured musical freestyles in two formats - Pas de Deux (two horse/rider combinations) and Team Quadrilles (six horse/rider combinations). Highlighting the event, U.S. Dressage Team Coach Klaus Balkenhol aboard Kingston and Leslie Morse on Tip Top 962 performed a special exhibition Pas de Deux. Winner of the 2006 Cadillac Challenge was Team Purina Mills USA comprised of Lynda Alicki, Pamela Goodrich, Tami Hoag, Susan Jaccoma, Bent Jensen, Betsy Steiner, and George Williams. Following the competition, the "Challenge Gala" in the Grand Marquee featured dinner, dancing, and a rousing live auction. More than 1,600 fans watched the competition and a record-breaking 600 guests attended the Gala.

2007 PhelpsSports.com Challenge of the Americas Introduces High Jump
Never resting on her laurels, in 2007 Ross introduced yet another facet of "The Challenge" - the high jump! With an ever-expanding group of sponsors and patrons, the sixth edition was entitled "PhelpsSports.com Challenge of the Americas Presented by Collecting Gaits Farm." The PhelpsSports Challenge was once again held at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The three teams now consisted of two Pas de Deux Riders, six Quadrille riders, and two show jumpers. All the teams had sponsors as well - Team Can/Am SSG Gloves, Team USA Purina Mills, and Team International Morgan Stanley. Team Can/Am SSG Gloves clinched the 2007 PhelpsSports.com Challenge with a team comprised of dressage riders Shannon Dueck, Denielle Gallagher, Daphne Haagmans, Jaimey Irwin, Tina Irwin, Lisette Milner, Suzanne Dansby Phelps, and Chris Von Martels, and show jumpers Eric Lamaze and Ainsley Vince. The sold-out Challenge Gala, with dinner, dancing, and a silent auction, expanded to two tents to accommodate nearly 700 patrons, setting yet another record for attendance.

2008 Challenge of the Americas Introduces Opening Ceremonies Entertainment
In 2008, Ross moved the Challenge of the Americas to the newly renovated Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, in Wellington. Ross introduced yet another entertaining facet to the Challenge - Opening Ceremonies. The evening kicked off with two solo dressage exhibitions - Olympian Steffen Peters riding Fantasma, owned by Deborah and Rex Howe, performed one of his award-winning freestyles as a "Salute to America," and then Pan American Games Team Gold and Individual Silver Medalist Lauren Sammis rode Sagacious HF owned by Al Guden in a tribute entitled "In Memory of Judy," honoring her mount's owner, Judy Guden, who died of breast cancer in 2007. Pan Am teammates Chris Hickey and Susie Dutta stood ringside during the performance and after the final halt they presented Sammis with a bouquet of flowers in honor of Mrs. Guden. Equestrian Idol winner Ki-Juan Minors delivered a beautiful version of the "National Anthem."

The competition format featured the high jump followed by three teams competing in six-horse musical quadrilles. The high jump counted for 40% and the quadrille for 60%. Team USA Purina Mills won the 2008 Challenge of the Americas with a team comprised of show jumpers Todd Minikus and Emily Williams and dressage riders Lynda Alicki, Pamela Goodrich, Chris Hickey, Susan Jaccoma, Bent Jensen, and Betsy Steiner. George Williams was the quadrille team coach and Terry Gallo of Klassic Kur, who has participated in every "Challenge" since the inaugural edition, created the choreography and soundtrack. The Challenge Gala dinner/dance, with a record 750 guests, was held in the International Club. The evening raised more than $300,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

"The past eight years have been an incredible journey," said Mary Ross. "The riders and horse owners have been so generous in contributing their time and best efforts to making this event a success. Also, without the tremendous support of donors and sponsors, we'd never have been able to expand the competition and the gala. I've had tireless support from our Challenge co-chairs and committees over the years. This is definitely a group effort! I'm thrilled that every year we've been able to contribute larger and larger sums to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. In 2009, 'The Challenge' will be even bigger and better!"

2009 Challenge of the Americas - Ticket and Table Reservations
The 2009 Challenge of the Americas Presented by International Polo Club Palm Beach will be held on Saturday night, March 7, 2009, at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, FL. To make reservations for the Challenge Gala, VIP Box Seats, and General Admission Tickets, contact Mary Ross at 561-852-2591.