BANK OF AMERICA YOUTH EXCELLENCE SEMINAR AND AQHYA CONVENTION TO BE HELD IN JUNE, DEADLINES DRAWING NEAR

America’s Horse, April 30, 2009 – The American Quarter Horse Youth Association is gearing up for the annual Bank of America Youth Excellence Seminar and American Quarter Horse Youth Association Convention June 25-27 at the Amarillo Civic Center.  Take advantage of early registration at a reduced rate of $75. The early registration deadline has been extended to May 8!

The $75 registration fee for youth members and adults also includes meals during the three-day conference. Registrations must be in the office (not postmarked) by May 8.

More than 200 AQHYA members are expected to attend this year’s event.  The Youth Excellence Seminar focuses on developing AQHYA members’ leadership through several group activities and expert motivational speakers.

This year’s motivational speakers are Rhett Laubach and Stewart Kennedy. As a professional speaker, author, presentations coach, Personal Leadership Insight expert and owner of YourNextSpeaker LLC, Laubach has taught leadership skills for more than 15 years to more than half a million audience members in 40 states, the Bahamas and Canada. An accomplished entrepreneur and speaker, Kennedy has been involved in start-up ventures or worked in real estate development, the food industry, the pet products industry and the dental industry. Kennedy has presented programs to approximately 350,000 people across many states.

Through YES, youths will gain a greater understanding of the American Quarter Horse industry and learn ways they can become more involved in AQHYA.

“Our goal is for youth members to get involved in all aspects of AQHA, and at the same time, learn valuable leadership skills that will enhance their AQHYA experience,” said Ward Stutz, AQHA Director of Youth Programs and Education. “The more our youth members learn about AQHA and how to become an effective leader, the better they will lead the Association in the future, and they become better citizens in the process.”

Voting delegates will elect AQHYA officers and directors during the convention.  AQHYA’s 11 regions will each elect three directors during the conference. It’s not too late to declare your candidacy and shape the future of AQHYA. Youth members interested in running for a director position must declare their candidacy by May 8. Visit http://www.aqha.com/youth/activities/leaderconference.html for more information. 

For additional information on this year’s YES and AQHYA Convention, visit http://www.aqha.com/youth/activities/leaderconference.html or call (806) 376-4811.

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. 

The “Road to the 2009 Xtreme Bulls Tour Championship” Ends in Ellensburg Saturday, September 5

Nation’s Top Bull Riders and Bulls to Compete on National ESPN Network Telecast 

Ellensburg, Wash. (April 29, 2009) -- The PRCA’s Xtreme Bulls Tour Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will hold the 2009 Xtreme Bulls Tour Finale in Ellensburg on Saturday, September 5th at the historic Ellensburg Rodeo Arena. The Tour Finale will be the culminating event of the tour and be nationally televised on ESPN2 and ESPN Classic.

“It’s appropriate that Ellensburg will be the location for the Xtreme Bulls Tour Finale in 2009 since the PRCA Xtreme Bulls program was initially hosted by the Ellensburg Rodeo Association in 2002” said Sam Dunn, Director of the Xtreme Bulls Tour. “The bull riding fans in Ellensburg are the best and this will provide another great chapter in the history of the Ellensburg Rodeo.”

Forty of the world’s top bull riders will converge on the Ellensburg to take their shot at an $85,000 purse. The star-studded field is anticipated to include Wrangler National Finals Rodeo World Champions: J.W. Harris (2008), May, TX, Wesley Silcox (2007), Payson, UT; B.J. Schumacher (2006), Hillsboro, Wis.; and Cody Hancock (2000) of Taylor, Ariz.

Ellensburg will also welcome the baddest, meanest, rankest one-ton athletes in the world. These bulls have thrown cowboys at the largest rodeo venues in the world, including the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, RodeoHouston, San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, Cheyenne Frontier Days and more.

All 40 riders will compete in a long-go competition. Following the long-go, the top 12 will be immediately brought back for the short-go, where the Ellensburg Champion and 2009 Tour Champion will both be crowned. “The Xtreme Bulls is such a good thing for these guys. It's a great time to be a bull rider” said Donnie Gay, 8-time world champion bull rider and TV analyst. “I love the format, and I know for a fact these guys love the format.”

Prior to Ellensburg, the tour will have featured stops in 8 other cities. In 2009 the Xtreme Bulls Tour has a combined purse of $535,000. Money earned on the Xtreme Bulls Tour counts toward PRCA World Standings, which determine Wrangler NFR qualifiers.

The 2009 schedule is as follows:

Date Rodeo Venue

Jan. 30-31 Rapid City Xtreme Bulls Rushmore Plaza Civic Center

Feb. 5 San Antonio Xtreme Bulls AT&T Center

Feb. 21 San Antonio Xtreme Bulls AT&T Center

March 22 Rodeo Houston Xtreme Bulls Reliant Stadium

April 4-5 Laughlin Xtreme Bulls Laughlin (NV) Events Center

June 18 Reno Xtreme Bulls Reno (Nev.) Rodeo Arena

July 5 Cody-Yellowstone Xtreme Bulls Cody (Wyo.) Stampede Rodeo Arena

Aug. 30 Kitsap County Xtreme Bulls Bremerton (Wash.) Fairgrounds

Sept. 5 Tour Finale Ellensburg (Wash.) Rodeo Arena

Tickets for the 2009 Xtreme Bulls Tour Finale event can be purchased by calling 1-800-637-2444 or at the event’s web site at www.ellensburgrodeo.com. Ticket prices range from $20-$40. Fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets early, it is anticipated that the event will once again be a sell-out.

The 2009 Xtreme Bulls Tour Finale will be televised on ESPN2 and ESPN Classic with 8-time PRCA world champion bull rider Donnie Gay handling the color commentary. ESPN2 and ESPN Classic reach 99 million and 63 million U.S. households respectively.

Xtreme Bulls is sanctioned by the largest ProRodeo organization in the world, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. The Xtreme Bulls Tour Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches is produced by Winnercomm, America’s largest independent sports production company.

Winnercomm Xtreme Bulls Spokesman: Sam Dunn – (859)-401-0095 -- sdunn@winnercomm.com

The Ellensburg Rodeo was founded in 1923. Held every Labor Day weekend, it is one of the top 20 professional rodeos worldwide. It features more than 500 competitors and a purse of over $250,000. Ellensburg, Wash., is located in the heart of Washington State, approximately 90 minutes east of Seattle.

Ellensburg Rodeo Spokesman: Brian Twardoski -- (509) 260-0129 -- brian@twardoski.com

2009 ELLENSBURG RODEO: STIMULUS PACKAGE

Free Admission to the Fair and Rodeo for Local Community Members

Ellensburg, Wash. (April 29, 2009) -- The Ellensburg Rodeo is giving away over 1,220 tickets to local community members. This $24,400 stimulus package will allow for free admission to members of:

• Future Farmers of America

• The 4H Club

• Veterans of Foreign Wars

• Kittitas County youth baseball players ages 12 and under

These tickets allow entrance into the rodeo events and fairgrounds. Ellensburg Rodeo President Dave Standish said, “We are delighted to be able to give something back to the community that has been a critical part of the Ellensburg Rodeo. It couldn’t come at a better time with the current state of the economy.”

Vouchers for tickets will be issued to the organizations listed above. Prior to the day of the event, individuals can take those vouchers to the ticket office and exchange it for a ticket.

For more schedule information please see details below:

• Friday, Sept. 4th: Free admission to Kittitas County youth baseball players (620 tickets) & local VFW members (100 tickets).

• Monday, Sept. 7th: Free admission to Kittitas County 4H and FFA members (over 400 tickets) & local VFW members (100 tickets).

The Ellensburg Rodeo was founded in 1923. Held every Labor Day weekend, it is one of the top 20 professional rodeos worldwide. It features more than 500 competitors and a purse of over $250,000. Ellensburg, Wash., is located in the heart of Washington State, approximately 90 minutes east of Seattle.

Ellensburg Rodeo Spokesman: Brian Twardoski -- (509) 260-0129 -- brian@twardoski.com

Ellensburg Rodeo Latest Addition to the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour Nationwide Tour Attracts Top PRCA Cowboys

Ellensburg, Wash. (April. 29, 2009) — The Ellensburg Rodeo is the newest stop on the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour this year. The rodeo joins several others, including two of the top three prize money rodeos, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo and the Cheyenne Frontier Days.

The tour, presented by Justin Boots, features the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association's top cowboys throughout a seven-month, nationwide series. It has two levels of competitions. Eight of the 17 participating rodeos, including the Ellensburg Rodeo, are Gold events, which means they have a purse of at least $20,000 in each event. The other rodeos are Silver, with a purse of at least $10,000 in each event.

“We are very excited that Ellensburg will be the eighth and final Gold tour stop on the 2009 Wrangler Million Dollar Tour,” says PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman. “The Gold tour is the ultimate, and is made up of premier events that ProRodeo is very proud of.

The tour will culminate with an elimination playoff system that will take place at the Puyallup, Wash., and Omaha, Neb., rodeos. It began Feb. 5-7 with the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo in Rapid City, S.D., and will conclude in Ellensburg from Sept. 4-7. Total prize money is projected to exceed $6 million.

After a year of using a points system, the tour will return to standings based on total earnings. Standings will count 15 of each contestant's 17 results in the race to reach the Justin Boots playoffs system. All eight of the Gold tier events will be counted for everyone, along with seven of nine in the Silver tier, with the worst two automatically being dropped.

“These Gold rodeos have stepped up to the plate in a big way, and we appreciate that kind of commitment from industry leaders like Ellensburg,” Stressman says. “Great events like these are at the heart of the plan for growing this sport now and into the future.”

The Ellensburg Rodeo expressed an interest in being part of the tour last year, spokesman Brian Twardoski says. “We wanted to be part of an elite rodeo and we're committed to generate purse sizes that will attract the best cowboys. That's important to us.”

The rodeo runs from Sept. 4-7. More information about its many competitions and events can be found online at www.ellensburgrodeo.com. Tickets can also be purchased online, or at the Ellensburg Rodeo Office at 609 N. Main St. in downtown Ellensburg. The office can be reached at 509-962-7831 or toll free at 800-637-2444. It's open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Ellensburg Rodeo was founded in 1923. Held every Labor Day weekend, it is one of the top 20 professional rodeos worldwide. It features more than 500 competitors and a purse of over $250,000. Ellensburg, Wash., is located in the heart of Washington State, approximately 90 minutes east of Seattle..

Ellensburg Rodeo Spokesman: Brian Twardoski -- (509) 260-0129 -- brian@twardoski.com

Two Top Announcers to Work the Ellensburg Rodeo this Summer

Father- and Son-in-Law Excited to Work Together in Ellensburg

Ellensburg, Wash. (April. 29, 2009) — Two world-famous rodeo announcers, Randy Corley and Hadley Barrett, are scheduled to work the Ellensburg Rodeo this summer — a first for the father- and son-in-law.

Corley and Barrett have announced together at other rodeos, but never in Ellensburg. The two are known for their skill at understanding and entertaining a crowd.

“We are really comfortable together,” Barrett says. “First of all, Randy is an awfully good announcer. And he pays attention to what the other guy is doing. We seem to be a little bit on the same plane, and many times our comments are the extension of the other's thoughts.”

The fact that the two are family always seems to get a crowd more interested, he adds. “I think people find some humor in that. We are a little Archie Bunker and Meathead once in a while.”

Barrett, a Colorado ranch owner, worked the Ellensburg Rodeo last year, but Corley never has. Both of them have been to the rodeo before and know how good it is.

“There are such a wide variety of things going on,” Barrett says. “The rodeo is on top of things, and it may sound cliché, but it's always nice to rub shoulders with professionals.”

Barrett has been an announcer for more than 40 years, working rodeos throughout the west. He joined the PRCA in 1965, becoming one of the best known announcers, radio and television personalities in rodeo. He's won PRCA's Announcer of the Year four times, with his latest in 2002. In 1999, he was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame for his many contributions.

Corley, a Sliverdale, Wash. resident, is also known throughout the west as a top-notch announcer. He's been awarded the PRCA's Announcer of the Year 11 times, the most in professional rodeo history. In 2008 he too was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.

He's looking forward to working the Ellensburg Rodeo this summer, especially along side his father-in-law, he says.

“I know what a great rodeo it is. It will be a great way to cap off the summer,” Corley says.

Like Barrett, Corley likes to get the crowd going with a little family banter. He says it's a great way to make an instant connection with spectators.

“Every audience is different, but the main thing is to have fun. We always try to get one started with the audience,” Corley says.

The rodeo is excited to bring Corley and Barrett to the arena this year. Having two of the best announcers in the world at once is a rare treat that rodeo fans should not miss. This year's rodeo runs from Sept. 4-7. More information about its many competitions and events can be found online at www.ellensburgrodeo.com.

The Ellensburg Rodeo was founded in 1923. Held every Labor Day weekend, it is one of the top 20 professional rodeos worldwide. It features more than 500 competitors and a purse of over $250,000. Ellensburg, Wash., is located in the heart of Washington State, approximately 90 minutes east of Seattle.

Ellensburg Rodeo Spokesman: Brian Twardoski -- (509) 260-0129 -- brian@twardoski.com

Star-Spangled Celebration for July 4th Horse Expo in Colorado Springs

Rocky Mountain Horse Expo teams with Ranch Rodeo and Extreme Racing

 

Are you looking for a fun and lively get-away for this year’s July 4th holiday? The Rocky Mountain Horse Expo (July 3-5) in Colorado Springs packs the Norris-Penrose Event Center with a full schedule of family entertainment and equine expertise.

Throughout the weekend, top clinicians and speakers will fill four arenas plus a classroom. Look for Chris Cox, twice champion of the prestigious Road to the Horse™ Colt Starting competition—he’ll be presenting twice every day. Long-time favorite Expo clinicians Debbie Bibb, Art Kiger and Jason Patrick demonstrate their particular styles of excellent horsemanship, and Karen Scholl, always a crowd favorite, presents her effective approach, too. Dressage gets a spotlight at this Expo, with Jennifer Diamond showing that there’s really not a chasm between the western disciplines and the classical. And Moses Woodson joins the line-up with some advice on training and riding gaited horses.  

Dr. Temple Grandin will spend Saturday with us at the Expo. Dr. Grandin is a noted authority on animal behavior and popular author. She will speak at two sessions and be available to autograph copies of her newest book, Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals.

In the Stadium on Saturday evening, the Ride for the Brand WRCA Ranch Rodeo puts real cowboys from legendary American ranches to the test—what could be more patriotic than that? All three days, the Extreme Cowboy Race sends individual horsemen and women over, around and sometimes under obstacles, as they gallop and spin against the clock. (Go to www.ExtremeCowboyAssociation.com or call (254) 595-2393 for race information and applications.) Cowboys for Kids hosts its own “extreme” event: Extreme Junior Dummy Roping, for toddlers to teens.

Every Rocky Mountain Horse Expo includes horse demonstrations, private treaty horse sales, classroom sessions with renowned speakers, fun for children of all ages, and shopping for everyone. With the help of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, the Horse Expo also features the Green Resource University, to help horse property owners and ranchers “go green” with the latest technology.

Step out and celebrate the July 4th weekend at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, July 3-5 at the Norris-Penrose Arena, Colorado Springs. For more information, booth and stall contracts, speaker bios and schedules, be sure to visit rockymountainhorseexpo.com or call (303) 292-4981. Make time for the other two Rocky Mountain Horse Expos this summer, too: Eagle, July 24-26, and Ignacio, September 18-20.

 

Cool Air, Hot Action at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo in Eagle, CO

July 24-26, 2009

 

The summer air may be cooler in Eagle, Colorado, but the action is not. Find Ranch Rodeo, the Extreme Cowboy Race™, expert horsemen and women, noted speakers, horse demonstrations and sales, the Green Resource University, shopping, clinics, family entertainment, and more at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, July 24-26 at the Eagle County Fairgrounds and Eagle River Center.

 

Clinicians on the schedule for now—with more to come:

·        Renowned stockman Curt Pate demonstrates effective ways to work with cattle.

·        Debbie Bibb connects trail riding to dressage skills

·        Art Kiger invites riders to find their particular horsemanship style—with passion.

·        Jason Patrick proves there’s a place in the “real world” for natural horsemanship.

 

Ranch Rodeo is a double-header this year in Eagle, with a Saturday night championship and a Sunday afternoon contest as well. The Extreme Cowboy Race pushes the balance between excellent horsemanship and outright daring (Go to www.ExtremeCowboyAssociation.com or call (254) 595-2393 for race applications and information). Cowboys for Kids offers their own “extreme” event: Extreme Junior Dummy Roping for children from toddlers to teens.

 

Three refreshing days in the high country in July—cool air and more at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo. For booth and stall contracts, information, speakers’ bios and schedules, visit RockyMountainHorseExpo.com or call (303) 292-4981. Make time for the other two Rocky Mountain Horse Expos this summer, too: Colorado Springs, July 3-5, and Ignacio, September 18-20.

Is that tail all itchy?

Use the “Scrub” to stop the “Rub” for a fuller mane and tail with Big & Sexy Tail Scrub by Aloe Advantage. This highly exfoliating and moisturizing sea salt “scrub” with essential oils gently lifts dry and dead skin cells from the crest of the horse’s mane and from the base to the dock of the horse’s tail leaving rich essential moisture to aid in the optimum growth of beautiful manes and tails.  Not only is this product all natural and highly effective at exfoliating the skin to stimulate healthy and enhanced hair growth  its also pleasant for the groomer with its outrageous Lemon Grass aroma! Your hands will feel like you just came from the spa….everyone benefits with Big & Sexy Tail Scrub!

 

To make this the total spa experience use Lemon Grass with Aloe Body Wash. Be sure to ask for these new products at your local feed, farm and tack stores. www.AloeAdvantage.com / 1-800-821-5570

Over Do It On That Spring Trail Ride?

Blue Springs MO — April 30, 2009 — Durvet is pleased to announce the introduction of ArthriEze+, a new and improved generation of the original and largest selling product of its’ kind for equine arthritis and inflammation. A great product to have on hand for equine relief from over working on that spring time trail ride!

 

ArthriEze+ is an apple flavored, microencapsulated and buffered aspirin-based product for relief of arthritic symptoms, pain and inflammation, in horses.

 

The new generation of ArthriEze+ incorporates new microencapsulation technology that completely masks both the odor and the visual appearance of aspirin. This feature insures a high degree of acceptance. ArthriEze+ has been shown in two palatability studies to be even more palatable than the product it replaces, with virtually 100% of horses eating it by itself, or when mixed with the horses’ feed.

 

Another improvement made possible by the new microencapsulation technology, is the reduction in dose volume from a 39cc dose down to a 29cc dose, allowing ArthriEze+ to be offered in a smaller container. For example, the new 480g jar replaces the previous 700g jar, but both offer 28 day’s.  We have added a new 2.86kg size that lasts for 168 days. A 1.43kg container replaces the previous 2100g size but still contains a 84 days supply. You might want to include a tube of AspirEze Gel for your first aid kit. Also be sure to check AspirFlex for your K-9 pals.

 

Veterinary controlled clinical trial research, supported by laboratory confirmation, was originally conducted to determine the aspirin dose necessary for control of arthritic symptoms in horses. The precise dose determined has been incorporated into

ArthriEze+ to insure a highly efficacious product.

 

In addition to Durvet’s apple flavored ArthriEze+ they also offer apple flavored Ivermectin and Pyrantel Equine Paste along with a Horse and Colt pelleted Pyrantel Wormer. Be sure to turn to Durvet for all your equine needs. A job made easy; thanks to Durvet’s solution based products! Visit www.Durvet.com or www.AppleWormer.com to find out more about Durvet’s apple wormers and their other equine products!  You can also contact them at info@Durvet.com . Make your life and your horse’s life simple with Durvet’s apple flavored equine products!

Back Country Horsemen Team Up with USFS on Horsemanship and Packing Clinics

The Four Corners Back Country Horsemen and the U.S. Forest Service present three clinics for horsemen this June:

June 8-12         Mountain Horsemanship, at Stone Peak Ranch in Ignacio: Master skills to stay safe riding in the mountains. Use your own horse. $235/BCH members, $275 others (USFS free)

June 13            Low Impact Stock Use and Camping, at Vallecito Ranger Station in Bayfield (Free to BCH members and USFS; all others, $10. Demonstrations and hands-on practice on demonstration livestock.

June 15-19       Five Day Packing Skills Intensive Training, at Vallecito Ranger Station in Bayfield. USFS free; $150 all others. Master various packing methods, low-impact stock use skills and more. Use USFS pack string for practice.

www.4cbch.org 

Spaces are available in all clinics. For information, costs and requirements, please contact Elizabeth Testa at (970) 259-1581, Don Kelly at (970) 769-6342, or (June 13 clinic only) Margie Coates at (970) 903-7846.

ARIAT NAMED MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR BY TACK ‘N TOGS

Union City, Calif., April 30, 2009—Ariat International is pleased to announce that it has been named Manufacturer of the Year by Tack ’n Togs Merchandising, a leading publication in the equine trade industry for 39 years.

 

Although Tack ‘n Togs’ annual Best of the Best awards usually includes both English and Western Manufacturers of the Year, Ariat was the sole recipient of this year’s award since the company makes both English and Western products. Profiles of each of the award recipients will be featured in the May 2009 issue of Tack ’n Togs.

 

“We are proud to receive this award from a time-honored publication in our industry,” said Beth Cross, president and CEO of Ariat. “Our mission has always been to provide the best products and the best customer service in the business, and it’s wonderful to be recognized for it.”

 

Tack ’n Togs started its annual awards program in 2002 with just two recipients: Person of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year. That evolved over time to be the Best of the Best awards including up to five awards each year. Nominations are accepted from those allied to the equine trade industry, including retailers, manufacturers, distributors, sales representatives, trade organizations, trade shows and media. All nominations are kept strictly confidential. Candidates must show a dedication to quality, value and selection, demonstrate a commitment to customer service and contribute to furthering the industry and the equestrian community at large.

 

“Since the company’s inception in 1993, Ariat Founder and President Beth Cross has done all of those things and more,” said Barb Kastens, editor of Tack ’n Togs Merchandising. “Beth and everyone at Ariat demonstrate a passion for the technology and quality that they build into every product. They are very much deserving of this award, and we are thrilled to be able to present it to them.”

 

To view this year’s award profiles, visit www.tackntogs.com.   

 

About Tack ‘n Togs Merchandising

Tack 'n Togs Merchandising is the leading international publication for equine retailers. Our mission is to connect the equine merchandising industry by providing cutting edge information on new product launches, proven merchandising techniques, store management tips and industry trends.

 

About Ariat International, Inc.

Ariat International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of innovative performance equestrian footwear, apparel, handbags and belts. Featuring a patented technology designed to deliver stability, durability and comfort, Ariat pioneered the application of advanced athletic shoe technology into English riding boots and authentic Western boots. Ariat products are sold in a network of retail outlets throughout the world. For more information about Ariat products or for the Ariat retailer nearest you, contact Ariat at 800.899.8141 or visit www.ariat.com.

 

Official Apparel Supplier of the U.S. Equestrian Federation

Imagine a Horse

Suzanne De Laurentis, co-founder of Imagine A Horse, announces partnership with Start to Finish Products with a revolutionary new DVD. “Using Treats as a Training Tool” teaches horse handlers methods to use food treats in training, responsibly and effectively.

Virtually every species of animal (except horses) is trained using food treats. This includes dogs, big cats, sea mammals, big birds. The use of horse treats in traditional horse training has long been discounted by professional trainers and rightfully so; It is very easy for a large animal such as the horse to become pushy when food is involved.

 

Allen Pogue, De Laurentis’ partner says ‘folks are going to feed their horses treats so we decided to offer them methods that are effective, sound in philosophy as well as practical in application. Food treats are helpful in bringing out the brilliance in a horse’s performance in many training situations. Food treats can help keep a horse motivated and engaged in his work’.

Imagine A Horse chose to partner with Start to Finish Products (www.stfproducts.com) because their horse treats are nutritionally sound so as not to impact the regular diet of a horse. They are the perfect size to use as a training aid and are cost efficient to use. They come are available in four flavors   Peppermint, Licorice, Apple and Carrot.

The DVD includes a guest appearance by Bobbi Colorado (www.coloradoscanine.com) and her dog, Shamus. Bobbi has trained all imaginable species of animals for many movies including Second Hand Lions, Texas Chain Saw Massacre, You Make My Day, Year One, The Three Burials of Mequiades Estrada and more. Bobbi’s words are  “If it eats, it can be trained”.

Using Treats as a Training Tool gives practical and effective training information with ground training and under saddle applications. There is an incredible WOW factor as well with the inclusion of the Imagine A Horse troupe of exhibition horses.

Imagine A Horse focuses on Enlightened Trick Horse Training as a vehicle to increase the intelligence, adaptability and predictability of the Companion Horse. Imagine A Horse methods are innovative and fresh with the emphasize on the  individuality of each horse.

 

For more information, visit www.imagineahorse.com

EasyCare Wants to Hear about Your Hoof Care Event

EasyCare, Inc is designing and implementing a new hoof care events page.  If you know of an event that would benefit those interested in keeping their horses barefoot, please email marketing@easycareinc.com.  EasyCare wants to know about hoof clinics, trade show events, nutrition and hoof care seminars (no matter how big or small), trimming clinics and veterinary talks.  The event will be posted to our website and in our hoof news blog. 

 

The additional event page ads to an already fairly comprehensive site on hoof care and booting.  Consumers can find a retail dealer or hoof care practitioner, educate themselves about keep horses barefoot and find a riding or therapy boot that is right for them.

 

About EasyCare, Inc.

EasyCare, Inc. has been a leader in the hoof boot industry for years, beginning with the invention of the Easyboot back in the early 70's. Since then, the need for boots has grown tremendously as more and more horse owners see the healthy advantages of pulling shoes and switching to natural hoof care. EasyCare is excited about being part of this growing trend. For more information about hoof boots or natural hoof care please call EasyCare, Inc. at 1-800-447-8836, e-mail: admin@easycareinc.com or visit our website at www.easycareinc.com.

Renee Isler Support Fund and The Dressage Foundation to Fund USDF Junior/Young Rider Programs

Lexington, KY (April 1, 2009) - United States Dressage Federation (USDF) is pleased to announce that the Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund at The Dressage Foundation (TDF) will be providing $13,000 in funding to support the Platinum Performance/USDF FEI Junior/Young Rider Clinic Series and TDF will provide $15,000 in funding support for the USDF/USEF Young Rider Graduate Program.   

“We are very grateful for the continued support from TDF and the Renee Isler Support Fund at TDF,” states Linda Schultz, Director of Marketing. “They have always been so supportive of our Jr/YR programs and that is critical to building the future of dressage.”

The Dressage Foundation’s mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage. “We are pleased that TDF can make it possible for these two programs to continue.  Many of our advanced young riders become professionals and helping them to become better riders and competitors through the clinics and giving them direction through the graduate program should help make US Dressage stronger,” said Lendon Gray, President and CEO of The Dressage Foundation.

FEI Jr/YR clinics are open to riders between the ages of 14-21 currently riding at Third Level or above.  However, auditors of all ages and levels are encouraged to attend as all can benefit from observing the training methods of these respected clinicians.

The USDF/USEF Young Rider Graduate Program is designed to assist riders ages 20-28 in making the transition from the Young Rider ranks to the professional levels of the sport as riders, trainers and judges.  The three day program will be held in January 2010 in the Wellington, Florida area.

Clinic information, participant applications, and online registration will be available through the USDF Web site.  For more information, contact the USDF office at yrgrad@usdf.org.

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 about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, e-mail usdressage@usdf.org, or call (859) 971-2277.

Save Money and Don’t Waste Feed!

Cashel introduces the original Feed Rite™ Bag. The Feed Rite magically keeps grain directly at the horse’s mouth so he doesn’t have to “fish” for it like in traditional buckets. Grain catching saves on waste. Sturdy, vinyl-coated mesh fabric construction makes it extremely durable and long lasting. Adjustable strap attaches over the poll, plus it is lightweight and comfortable to the horse. Look for the original Feed Rite™ Bag at your local Cashel Retailer or visit www.cashelcompany.com to learn more.

USEF Announces All Breed Retreat for Recognized Affiliates

By Stacey Meier

Lexington, KY— Last month, leaders of the USEF Recognized Breed Affiliates got together with USEF staff to discuss the relationship with the USEF and continued growth, development and promotion of the Breeds. The meeting, moderated by Bill Moroney, took place in conjunction with the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Katy, TX. The meeting was just the beginning of many conversations that the USEF will have to reach the goals of the Breed Retreat, which is to continue the growth, development and promotion of the Recognized Breed Affiliates. 

“We received a lot of valuable input from this Retreat so that we can start evaluating ways to improve the communication and experience for our Affiliates, our members and the competitions,” said USEF’s Assistant Executive Director of National Affiliates, Lori Nelson. “I think it was also beneficial for the Affiliates to come together to share their own experience in the industry as it related to membership numbers, registrations and marketing. We look forward to future Retreats and meetings with the group and others involved and are very excited about our renewed partnerships with our Affiliates.”

 

Many leaders in the Affiliate organizations serve on committees or are involved in other capacities with the USEF, but this was the first time the USEF has joined together all of the Recognized Breed Affiliate Leadership in this type of setting. 

 

The main goals of the Retreat were to identify ways in which the Recognized Breed Affiliates and the USEF can work together to solve issues; create a competition environment which is easier to navigate for exhibitors, secretaries and competition management; identify and create avenues to simplify the relationship between the Recognized Breeds and the USEF; identify and develop other strategies which will strengthen the Recognized Breeds and participation in competitions.

 

Also at the Retreat, data sharing and verification was discussed along with sponsorship/marketing, and the development of different competition structures. There was also discussion about the possibilities for multi-breed competitions and many of the participants were positive about the concept and evaluating what further steps could be taken to make it happen.

 

All of those who attended made the commitment that both the USEF and the Recognized Breed Affiliates will work together in communication and effort to enhance the experiences for the Affiliates, the members and the competitions.

 

“I was very pleased with the retreat— being able to interact with other breed representatives and to listen to the concerns they have with the horse industry was a very positive experience,” said Cindy Clinton, Director, National Show Horse Registry. “I believe we picked up ideas from each other and left the retreat with a very positive attitude and excited to work together for the betterment of all. I was very pleased to hear how receptive the USEF is to our needs. They have asked us to come forward with any and all suggestions that we would like for our breed.”  

 

Next steps include having the Affiliate leaders share the discussions with their respective organizations to receive further input. Also as next steps, the USEF staff will put together an action plan to ensure follow through of the meeting goals.

 

The group will continue to have teleconference meetings and an in-person meeting is scheduled June 28, 2009, in Lexington, KY.

 

For more information about the All Breed Retreat, please contact Lori Nelson, USEF’s Assistant Executive Director, National Affiliates, at (859) 225-6957 or via email at lnelson@usef.org.

New & Improved Crusader™ Leg Guards

Cashel’s durable mesh leg wraps eliminate sun sensitivity and helps prevent flies from biting the lower leg, pastern, and coronet areas on your horse. They also help reduce annoying fly stomping and insect-induced stress. With precise seam and dart placement, the boot’s contoured fit inhibits sagging and shifting, plus a soft nylon trim eliminates burr and grass seed collection often experienced by other leg wraps. Hook and loop closures provide an adjustable fit to adapt to your horse’s individual conformation. Visit www.cashelcompany.com or call 1-800-333-2202.

Crusader™ Fly Mask, Voted #1 Fly Mask Again One of the Horse Journal’s Top 2008 Products

Fly season is here and once again, Cashel's Crusader Fly Mask is the favorite. The Cashel Crusader Fly Mask has specific details in design and fit that not only offers the best in fly protection and comfort, but also a safe alternative to toxic sprays and pesticides. Soft vinyl coated polyester mesh blocks 70% of the sun’s damaging UV rays and protects the sensitive soft tissues of the eyes and face. The patented long nose panel protects sensitive white noses from sunburn and biting flies. Your horse will appreciate the freedom from biting flies and the comforting fit. Please visit www.cashelcompany.com for more information and to see the complete line of Cashel fly protection products.

Mason Phelps Jr. Appointed to Serve on the Board of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce Equestrian Committee

Wellington, FL - April 30, 2009 - Phelps Media Group, Inc. is pleased to announce that Mason Phelps, Jr. has been selected to serve on the board of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce Equestrian Committee. The Equestrian Committee is comprised of a diverse group of dynamic individuals that have experience in various equestrian related businesses and non-profit organizations, and Phelps will bring an extensive equestrian knowledge to assist in furthering the committee's goals.

  

Mason Phelps, Jr. is a lifelong horseman who has participated in many aspects of the equestrian world including as a rider/trainer, event manager, governance leader, charity organizer, and multi-media executive. Phelps is the president and founder of Phelps Media Group, Inc., one of the foremost equestrian public relations firms in the world, and has been instrumental in the industry through his philanthropy and service on many boards and councils.

"The equestrian community and Mason Phelps are synonymous," said Wellington Chamber of Commerce President Diana Tashman. "We are delighted to have Mason on the Equestrian Committee and I think that his expertise in the equestrian community, not just in Wellington, but nationally, will be a great asset to the Wellington Chamber as our membership grows."

 

Tashman added, "Because of the major impact that the equestrian industry has on the Wellington economy, Mason is the perfect catalyst to assist the Wellington Chamber's efforts with this group.  We really want to give more exposure to the equestrian community, and that is where his expertise will come in."

The Equestrian Committee's goals include developing interest and participation in the equestrian sport in Wellington, providing events and seminars for business and equestrians to meet and play, thus increasing business opportunities between the two groups, establishing interactive relationships with equestrian organizations (for-profit and non-profit), increasing membership of equestrian related businesses, updating the Committee Website so it may be used as a resource, providing effective and timely communication to the Board of Directors, committee members, chamber members and community members when required, and improving community lifestyle and prosperity by implementing the above goals.

Phelps will use his expertise to assist the committee in realizing those goals and is looking forward to putting his knowledge to good use for the Wellington community.

Phelps fully supports the goals of the Equestrian Committee, and due to the extensive traveling that the equestrian sport involves, he has selected Julie Tannehill to serve as his alternate in the event that he is away on business at any time during his service on the committee.

 

Additional information on the committee and equestrian area events can be found at www.wellingtonchamber.com.  Questions or comments can be direct to equestrian committee chairwoman Nan Martin at nan@nemhj.com or Michela Perillo-Green at info@wellingtonchamber.com. 

LYNN PALM AND PALM PARTNERSHIP TRAINING ANNOUNCE 2009 "RIDE WELL CLINIC TOUR"

OCALA, FLORIDA (April 30, 2009) - Palm Partnership Training proudly announces the 2009 "RIDE WELL CLINIC TOUR" coming to an area near you! Join Lynn Palm and Cyril Pittion-Rossillon to take your riding to a new level!  Beginner, Youth, Amateur, Pleasure Rider or National Champion!  The RIDE WELL CLINICS are a great value for everyone. With a minimum of 18 hours of instruction over 3 days, these clinics are an affordable way to train with two of the best educators in the industry!

Lynn Palm and Cyril Pittion-Rossillon will personally evaluate each rider’s skills, horse's level of training and proper tack fit.  Smaller groups will be formed within the clinic according to each participant's skill level.  Small groups will rotate between riding sessions and lecture to give each rider a thorough understanding of the lessons. Clinic participants will learn common sense-achievable, humane, dressage principles for all breeds of horses and all rider disciplines. Lynn and Cyril will follow their successful training methods-improve the horse by improving the rider.

Three of the "RIDE WELL" clinics have been selected for a special 4 day session to include a "Show & Tell Horse Show/Clinic."  The "Show & Tell" Horse Show/Clinic will offer competitive events including Showmanship, Horsemanship, and Hunt Seat Equitation and is open to all breeds. Participants in the competitive events will be judged for score and receive valuable feedback from the judges including show ring strategies and training tips. Participants will have opportunities to "Ask the Judge" and have several chances to win great prizes in excess of $1000!  “Show and Tell” is open to the public and to all clinic participants.

Participant enrollment is limited to guarantee personalized instruction. Participants must be able to walk, trot, canter and young and green horses are welcome. Spectators are welcome at all Ride Well Clinic locations.  For more information on the Ride Well Clinics, enrollment and spectator advance ticket specials go to: www.lynnpalm.com

 2009 RIDE WELL CLINIC Tour Dates

May 23-25         Fountain, CO

July 16-19         Bessemer, MI

July 30-August 2 Bowdoinham, Maine

August 14-16     Ferndale, CA

August 20-23     Dousman, WI

August 28-30     Bryan, OH

October 2-4       Jamestown, TN

October 9-11     Valley Lee, MD

 

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, 1989 World Cup and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, and World Cup. Palm and Cyril Pittion-Rossillon are co-founders of three horse industry companies: Palm Partnership Training, Women LUV Horses, and Alliance Saddlery USA.

 

About Cyril Pittion-Rossillon

Pittion-Rossillon’s career comes to Royal Palm Ranch from Paris, France, where he earned his Riding Master Degree from the French National Equestrian School. His extensive background and experience as a professional equestrian offers an effective and unequaled complement to the equestrian programs offered at Palm Partnership Training. Pittion-Rossillon’s teaching accomplishments include: Instructor for six years at Brimborion Equestrian Center,  the largest equestrian center in Paris, Co-Founder and Director of School for Training Young Professionals for the First Degree of Riding Instructor, Youth and Amateur coach for AQHA & AHSA competition.

Southern Outdoor Technologies Explores the “Back Forty”

WEST POINT, MS- Southern Outdoor Technologies is proud to announce the development of its new Back Forty™ ATV-friendly utility trailer. Boasting a stout hauling capacity of 1,500 lbs; the Back Forty™

Is a must have for Hunters, Ranchers, Campers, Horse Enthusiasts, Outfitters, Hobby Farmers, Golf Courses, Contractors, Marinas, etc.   

“The Back Forty™ is an invaluable tool for anyone who uses an ATV, UTV, or Compact Tractor” said Mark Bernegger, VP of Sales and Marketing for Southern Outdoor Technologies.  “The main focus that drove us to develop the idea for the Back Forty™ was a means by which to get our Sportsman’s Condo hunting blinds from location to location. Once the prototype was put in front of me, I saw the potential for all types of applications. This trailer has everything the Sportsman, Outdoorsman, or Farming community could want. It is a handy size, measuring 48” wide x 72” long, and is extremely maneuverable, yet still big enough to haul tremendous loads. The frame is 14-gauge welded steel frame which is attached to a heavy duty 5-lug hub and axle. A 2-inch coupler is standard along with a removable tongue and stake pockets to allow custom sides and rear panel.  The Back Forty™ is powder paint coated for years of maintenance free service”. 

Lee Blair, Product Manager for Southern Outdoor Technologies added, “The Back Forty™ is unique in the fact the customer can custom order the trailer with options to fit their individual needs”. Options include a Cargo Basket, Quick Release Tongue, Off Road and Turf Tires. “Twelve-inch tires are standard and the Back Forty™ weighs 152 lbs. All the consumer has to do is add a sheet of treated plywood for the deck and you have a rugged, well built, high quality trailer, which will give years of service at an exceptional value”. 

“This is not one of those tiny, inexpensive trailers you find at the big box stores, we are pleased how the Back Forty™ turned out.  Priced at $399, I doubt you will find a better value anywhere. The Back Forty™ is 100% made in the USA and designed to work”, added Bernegger.  The Back Forty™ is designed for off-road use only.  

Southern Outdoor Technologies has built a stellar reputation as providing a line of top-quality products for the Sportsman and Outdoor Enthusiast. From its inception, the S.O.T. team has continually provided innovative ideas to the hunting and greater outdoors community. 

www.sportsmanscondo.com 

 

uShip.com offers powerful tool for estimating horse transport costs

April 24, 2009, Austin, TX -- Purchasing a horse is stressful enough without having to worry about the cost of transport. As more people are finding horses online, however, the price of transport often weighs heavily into the purchase decision. uShip.com has developed a tool to give buyers and sellers an easy way to estimate the cost of transporting a horse to the new owner – before a sale is even made. uShip.com’s Shipping Price Estimator (SPE) generates an estimate for horse transport cost based on the number of horses and distance to be traveled. The tool even factors in trucking routes and supply and demand in the market.

As an example, a horse buyer might have their heart set on a horse, but they’re in Omaha and the horse is in Flagstaff. By simply selecting the shipment category and plugging in the ZIP codes, the reader is able to get a shipping estimate of $740.07 based on actual transactions in the uShip marketplace, distance, routing and carrier capacity. Armed with this information, buyers can more effectively negotiate and evaluate the purchase price for an out-of-town horse since they will have a better idea of the full cost, including transport.

Because of the real-time calculations of the tool, the estimate will vary from day-to-day as transactions occur and the transport market fluctuates. The estimate is powered by the Transportation Price Index (TPI), which tracks transportation prices and is expressed in dollars per ton-mile (the cost to transport one ton of goods for one mile). As the TPI changes, results from the SPE will change, ensuring the most accurate and up-to-date estimate.

About uShip.com: 

uShip.com helps individuals and businesses that have something they need transported (a horse, for instance) to find reliable service providers to handle the load. Unlike a directory or classifieds site, uShip.com uses a reverse-auction style format where transporters bid against each other to win the job, which drives down the final price to the consumer. In some categories, including vehicles, motorcycles and LTL freight, shipping customers can get instant quotes from a select group of top-rated service providers.

uShip.com also presents a feedback score and consumer reviews for each transporter in their network, so consumers can evaluate their options based on the expected service level and dependability of each provider, in addition to the price quote.

USET Foundation Awards Buck Davidson with Pinnacle Cup Trophy at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI****

Lexington, KY - April 30, 2009 - The USET Foundation is pleased to announce that this year's recipient of the Pinnacle Cup Trophy at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI**** is Buck Davidson (33) of Riegelsville, PA, and Ocala, FL. Davidson rode My Boy Bobby to a third place finish at the top event and was the highest placed American rider, which earned him the trophy.

My Boy Bobby is owned by Carl and Cassandra Segal. This was his first CCI****, and the 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding was near perfect with Davidson. They scored a 39 in their dressage round and had only 1.2 time faults in the cross-country phase. They were clear in the show jumping, which gave Davidson his best ever finish at Rolex. The pair also won the Rolex/USEF National CCI**** Championship.

Davidson has only been riding My Boy Bobby since last year, but they have accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments. In their first event, they won the Intermediate division at Millbrook. Just this year, they won at Rocking Horse Advanced Trials, the Southern Pines Advanced Horse Trials, and the CIC*** at The Fork.

Leading the Americans was a great feeling for Davidson, who noted that, "Kentucky is the place where we all want to go. It's our biggest event and one of the biggest in the world."

Following in his father's footsteps is yet another positive aspect of his participation in the sport. Buck's father, Bruce O. Davidson, Sr., has won Rolex Kentucky five times (1993, 1989, 1988, 1984, and 1983) and has his name inscribed on the Gladstone Challenge Trophy.  When the event achieved four star status, the Pinnacle Cup was introduced to honor the highest placed American rider.  Buck Davidson won the Pinnacle Cup in 2003 on Mystic Mike when the pair placed fourth at Rolex. He has also been named the Leading Young Rider numerous times. 

"As I get older and do more things, it's cooler and cooler to win what he's won," Buck Davidson said. "There are probably not too many fathers and sons that have won that trophy," he laughed. "I'm starting to do things now that he did. Now I just have to win (at Rolex)!" 

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America's elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

For more information on the USET Foundation, please call (908) 234-1251, or visit USET ONLINE at www.uset.org. 

Previous Pinnacle Cup Trophy Winners:

2008: Phillip Dutton and Connaught

2007: Phillip Dutton and Connaught

2006: Heidi White Carty and Northern Spy

2005: Kim Severson and Winsome Adante

2004: Kim Severson and Winsome Adante 

2003: Bruce O. Davidson, Jr. and Mystic Mike

2002: Kim Vinoski (Severson) and Winsome Adante

2001: David O'Connor and Giltedge

2000: David O'Connor and Rattle N Hum

1999: Karen O'Connor and Prince Panache

1998: Dorothy Crowell and Molokai

Previous to this date, the top American finisher was awarded the Gladstone Challenge Trophy.

Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc. Announces "Taste of Traverse City" Exhibitor Party to Benefit Equestrian Aid Foundation

Traverse City, MI - April 30, 2009 - "Taste of Traverse City," this year's annual off-site exhibitor party hosted by Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc., will benefit the Equestrian Aid Foundation (EAF), a non-profit organization providing basic medical needs funding for those suffering catastrophic illness or injury. The party and auction, scheduled for Sunday, July 12, 2009, will feature popular food and beverages from area restaurants at the Jolly Pumpkin Tavern and Brewery on Old Mission Peninsula. 

 

"Taste of Traverse City" will be held during the Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival, a four-week, multi-discipline equestrian event at the Flintfields Horse Park on July 8-August 2. This will be the fourth year that Horse Shows by the Bay has partnered with EAF; however, it is the first time that the entire event will be managed by the Foundation. To date, Horse Shows by the Bay has raised more than $40,000 to benefit the EAF.

 

"Given the tough economic times and the continued demand that is being placed on the Foundation for donor support, we felt that a more aggressive approach had to be taken to raise the awareness and significance of the Foundation and the role it plays within the community," said horse show co-owner Alex Rheinheimer. "This event has been a huge success in the past, and we are dedicated to continuing our support for an organization that can make such a significant difference in people's lives."

 

Only 250 tickets for the exhibitor party will be issued. Each ticket is $125 with 100 percent of the proceeds dedicated to the EAF.  More than 500 people attended the event last year.

 

The evening will feature popular dishes from Traverse City's favorite local restaurants, including Cafe Habana, Blue Tractor Cook Shop, Northpeak Brewery, and Bowers Harbor Inn. Hand-crafted artisan Jolly Pumpkin micro-beers and award-winning wine from long-time horse show partner Bowers Harbor Vineyards will also be available.

 

Bidding on exclusive silent auction items will complete the evening. 

 

Tickets can be purchased by check through the horse show by marking the total number of tickets needed on the hunter/jumper horse show entry blank or by going to EAF direct via their web site or by calling 1-800-792-6068.  

 

For horse show information, please visit www.horseshowsbythebay.com. Additional entry forms are available to download from the Exhibitor Info Tab.

 

The Equestrian Aid Foundation's mission is to build a membership-based organization to assist anyone in the equestrian world suffering from life threatening illness, catastrophic accidents or injuries by providing direct financial support for their basic medical needs. It is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization. For more information on the event and EAF, please visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org.

2009 Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival Fast Facts

 

EVENT: Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival

WHAT: A month long multi-discipline equestrian festival that attracts 1,400 horses and their riders who are in attendance to accumulate year end points and compete for $395,000 total prize money.

 

WHEN:  July 8 - August 2, 2009

 

WHERE: Flintfields Horse Park, 6535 Bates Road, Williamsburg, MI 49690

HOURS: 

Wednesday through Sunday, beginning at 8 a.m.

ADMISSION: 

Wed & Thursday, Closed to the Public

Friday - Sundays, $5/person for general admission ticket

PARKING: Available on-site; included in admission price

DIRECTIONS & LODGING PARTNERS:  Please see www.horseshowsbythebay.com.  

RATING:  "AA" Hunters; "Level 4" Jumpers; "Rated" Dressage.

 

SANCTIONED BY:  United States Equestrian Federation, United States Dressage Federation, United States Hunter-Jumper Association, North American League, Young Jumper Championships, Show Jumping Hall of Fame, World Champion Hunter Rider Awards Program, Washington International Horse Show Championships, Hunter-Jumper Association of Michigan, Ohio Hunter-Jumper Association, Ohio Professional Horseman's Association, Indiana Hunter-Jumper Association, Wisconsin Hunter-Jumper Association, Michigan Horse Show Association, Great American Insurance Group, and USDF Breeder's Championship Program.  

 

WEEK BY WEEK HIGHLIGHTS: 

Week I, July 8 - 12:

·        $30,000 Spy Coast Farm Grand Prix of Traverse City

·        $15,000 International Hunter Derby Classic

·        $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix

·        $10,000 JR/AO Jumper Prix

 

Week II, July 15 - 19:

·        $30,000 Grand Traverse Bay Grand Prix

·        $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix

·        $10,000 JR/AO Jumper Prix

·        $5,000 JR/AO Hunter Classic

·        $5,000 Adult Hunter Classic

·        $5,000 Children's Hunter Classic

·        $5,000 Pony Hunter Classic

 

Week III, July 22 - 26:

·        $30,000 D-BRAIDER Cherry Capital Classic Grand Prix

·        $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix

·        $10,000 JR/AO Jumper Prix

·        $10,000 Children's/Adult Jumper Prix

·        HJAM Equitation Medal Finals

Week IV, July 29 - August 2:

·        Dressage by the Bay Series I/II Competition

·        $5,000 Dressage Musical Freestyle Prize Money

·        By the Bay Local Day Finals

·        Polo by the Bay Exhibition & Charity Fundraiser

EVENT CONTACT: 

Alex Rheinheimer

561-723-6287

alexrheinheimer@aol.com 

www.horseshowsbythebay.com  

Samantha Harrison Wins Best Child Rider at Flintridge Riding Club Children's Horse Show

Flintridge, CA - April 30, 2009 - Karen Healey Stables competed at the Flintridge Riding Club's 88th Annual Children's Horse Show this weekend, April 24-26, 2009.  The show was hosted by the Flintridge La Cañada Guild of the Huntington Memorial Hospital, and Karen Healey's riders picked up several wins during the three days of competition. 

 

For the third straight year, Amanda Ballew won the award for Best Child Rider Trainer at the Flintridge Horse Show. Ballew is one of Karen Healey's assistant trainers and was presented with The Annie Lathrop Memorial Perpetual Trophy for her work with the young students.

 

Samantha Harrison of La Canada won the Best Child Rider award this weekend and was presented with The Chelsea Weaver Memorial Perpetual Trophy after winning several medal classes and the overall equitation championship. Harrison won the blue ribbons in the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search and the WCE Medal, was first overall in the WIHS Equitation Classic, second in the Pessoa USEF Hunter Seat Medal, and third in the ASPCA Maclay Horsemanship class. She also placed first in the Hunter Seat Championship 15-17 on the flat and was overall Hunter Seat 15-17 champion. 

 

Grace Shelton is another rider out of Karen Healey Stables who showed at the Flintridge Children's Horse Show this weekend. Shelton placed second overall in the WIHS Equitation Classic, first in the USEF Hunter Seat Medal, and second in the Hunter Seat Championship 15-17 on the flat.  

 

Haley Harrison competed as well, placing first in the THIS National Children's Medal, first in the Hunter Seat Championship 14 and Under on the flat, and fourth in the PCHA Horsemanship Medal. Both Haley Harrison and Grace Shelton were in the top four for the overall Hunter Seat 15-17 championship.

 

Hannah Bibb showed in the equitation at Flintridge this weekend and placed second in the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search and fourth in the Hunter Seat Championship 15-17 on the flat.

 

Other top finishes include Kylee Arbuckle's overall third place in the WIHS Equitation Classic and Demi Stiegler's fifth place ribbon in the Hunter Seat Championship 15-17 on the flat.

 

While Karen Healey's younger riders were showing at Flintridge, Tammy Chipko showed her horse Wonderfull at the Showpark Spring Festival this weekend, held on April 23-26. Chipko and Wonderfull jumped clean in every round of competition and did very well, placing third in the 1.10m Jumpers, second in the WCE Medal, second in the 1.15m Jumper Classic, and sixth in the 1.20 Jumpers.

 

Karen Healey Stables will compete next at the Del Mar National Horse Show, April 28 through May 5, where riders will have the opportunity to compete in classes for the World Champion Hunter Rider program as well as the North American Junior and Young Rider Championship trials.  For more information please visit www.karenhealeystables.com.

InfoMedia Video Releases The Art of Reining With Tim McQuay Video Series

For years, Tim McQuay has been an icon in the reining industry. Aside from his illustrious accomplishments in the show pen, including the recent Championship at the 2008 National Reining Horse Association Futurity, McQuay has also become known as a trainer's trainer. Along with a slew of Non Pro riders who have been successful, including his own daughter, NRHA Million Dollar Rider Mandy McCutcheon, Tim has helped other professionals at all stages of their career to train better, show better, and win more.

Teaching and helping others be their best is something about which McQuay is passionate. But the NRHA $2 Million Rider's vast pool of knowledge has been unavailable except to those lucky enough to train with him. That is, at least, until Tim and his wife, Colleen, teamed up with InfoMedia Video to produce The Art of Reining with Tim McQuay video series. "I've always enjoyed sharing what I have learned over the years. In the first video, Tim McQuay's - The Art of the Turnaround, that maneuver is broken down into easy-to-understand segments," explained McQuay. "I hope that this method will help explain some of the things that can make a difference."

The five-disc series begins with The Art of the Turnaround, and the expected release date is set for the week of the NRHA Derby in June, 2009. That video will be followed by The Art of Circles and Lead Changes. The third video will be The Art of the Stop and Rollback. Once the maneuvers of reining are covered, the videos will take a different direction, as video number four is Reining For Non Pros and video five is titled The Team that Insures Reining Success.

Lee Schneider, who co-owns InfoMedia Video Inc., along with Cheryl Magoteaux, is equally enthusiastic about the series. "It was a pleasure for Cheryl and me to be in Tioga, Texas, to work with Tim and Colleen and everyone at McQuay Stables and see first-hand the very top level of reining excellence, and their attention to each horse's welfare." He continued, "We hope that these videos will both instruct and entertain. I think one of the most popular parts of the video will be the segment that shows great runs of different horses through the years."

InfoMedia Video Inc. has already produced and marketed such videos as the highly successful Speed Williams Roping series. For more information on InfoMedia Video, or to order The Art of Reining for $49.95 plus $5 shipping and handling, please visit www.infomediavideo.com.

For information on McQuay Stables, visit the website at www.mcquaystables.com.

Back Country Horsemen of America Invites Other Groups to Join Them in Saving Trails for Equestrian Use

By Sarah Wynne Jackson

 

As the United States’ foremost advocate for trail riders not only in Washington, D.C., but also across the country, Back Country Horsemen of America has worked hard to keep public trails open for horse use. They attack the issue from every possible angle, including volunteering to open and repair trails, advising public lands managers, and meeting in person with town, state, and federal decision makers.

 

In fact, BCHA prevented the implementation of flawed trail classification standards that would have severely restricted trails and riding areas to recreational riding and pack stock use. The organization has also successfully worked to pass federal legislation that would preserve and protect riders’ rights on public land.

 

In addition, they are vigilant watchdogs representing the countless millions of horseback riders who enjoy recreating with their equine friends on our public lands, from the rugged terrain of the west to the urban parks of the east. These are advocacy issues that benefit the entire riding community. 

 

Working Together Toward a Common Cause

 

Despite these successes, there is more to be done and further challenges to face. Knowing that many hands make light work and that there is strength in numbers, BCHA recognizes the need to widen its base of influence through partnerships with other organizations.

 

Strength in advocacy is about presenting correct facts to the right people at the right time and making a convincing case for the cause.  It is also about gathering a large constituency base that is in basic agreement on a given issue. Back Country Horsemen of America knows that it needs the support of other organizations to grow their constituency base and therefore be even more effective in their negotiations with land managers and agency personnel.

 

For these reasons, BCHA is inviting other organizations of all kinds to join them in saving trails for equestrian use by becoming Advocacy Partners with BCHA. They feel that partnerships of this kind are critical for the continued advancement of equestrians’ right to ride on our public lands. 

 

BCHA is a highly effective grassroots organization comprised of local and state chapters, affiliates, and at-large members to the national organization. Their efforts and dedication have put them in a unique position of respect and influence: not only do lands managers and decision makers recognize their high level of knowledge and experience, they actively and regularly seek out the opinion and assistance of BCHA and its member organizations.

 

When teamed up with Back Country Horsemen of America, other organizations benefit from BCHA’s exceptional position. Very few groups have built these valuable relationships with the people that make decisions, and so are not as able to represent their memberships in Washington, D.C., and state capitols as these important decisions are made.

 

Not only does a partnership with BCHA afford the benefits of their hard-earned esteem and connections, it adds that group’s voice to this common cause of all equestrians. It also gives these organizations’ leaders the opportunity to share with their membership information that, while they might not be aware it’s happening, has the potential to greatly impact their access to public lands.

 

Partner organizations’ dues are based on the amount of their annual budget, which entitles them to a website link on www.backcountryhorse.com that includes a brief description of their work, recognition in BCHA’s annual report to the membership, a one-time business card advertisement in BCHA’s newsletter (which has a circulation of over 11,000 nationally), a recognition press release sent to BCHA’s media contacts, and a 25% discount on advertising in the BCHA newsletter (some restrictions apply).  For further information about BCHA’s Advocacy Partner Program, please contact their development office at 815-858-2220 or refer to their website at www.backcountryhorse.com.

 

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!

Bravo for "Bare Facts"

Horse owners and trainers around the world are discovering there is a sound option to ride without metal shoes and still have their horses perform in any discipline with success and soundness. 

“All too little attention has been made to the natural foot.

That’s the way he was made, that’s the way he should go.”

Equine Vet Dr. James Rooney in his book “The Lame Horse”

 

Interest in natural hoof care simply stems for wanting what is best for horses, but in this effort many have been on a downward spiral of constant lameness or chronic hoof problems. 

Hooves adapt to their living environment, but when we put our weight and saddles on their backs and then want to ride them on terrain other than which they are accustomed, their hooves need help.

That’s where Cavallo comes in. New for Spring 2009, our beautiful full-color booklet, "The Bare Facts: A Little Book with a Lot of Information" will be included in every pair of Cavallo Hoof Boots. The Bare Facts is chock-full of information in layman’s terms, directing the horseowner to the main issues of keeping horses barefoot. From feed advice to a synopsis on the causes and prevention of Laminitis, this booklet will provide advice, information, resources, and loads of lovely pictures too!

“Boots are the most appropriate option for the distinguishing horseperson when added hoof protection is desired. They complement the functions of the hoof rather than antagonizing it — this is the bottom line.”

~Dr. Tomas G. Teskey, DVM

Pulling off metal shoes and moving to Cavallo boots may be a big adjustment to make,  but it is extremely rewarding. The result will keep you far more in tune with your horse, enhance your relationship, and take your riding and horsing around to a whole new level. And you'll save money too!

Download your FREE copy of The Bare Facts today at

http://www.cavallo-inc.com/hoofcare/education.html 

  

Cavallo also offers a free download of our Barefoot Trim Manual on the Hoofcare Education page of our website http://www.cavallo-inc.com

About Cavallo Horse & Rider Inc.

Cavallo Horse & Rider Inc. is home to the most comfortable hoof boots in the world. Here you will find the most economical alternative to metal shoes, as well as technologically advanced saddle pads, and much, much more! Cavallo is committed to developing and distributing innovative products of excellent quality that provide comfort, protection, support and value for money for both horse and rider. Please call us toll-free at 1-877-818-0037 or visit us online at http://www.cavallo-inc.com

The Jacob Method An Integral part of Training the Whole Horse®

I had my first encounter with a Reiki Master, Becky Jacob, and wow it was an amazing experience.  Along with being a Reiki Master Becky is also a Certified Aroma therapist, Raindrop Therapist, Licensed Spiritual Healer, and a Licensed Minister.  Becky is an amazing woman whose passion for helping people and horses is breathtaking when you are in her presence.  Becky has become an integral part of my barn and training as she generously gives of her time and training in the healing arts.  Becky told me a story that I just had to share:

 

Gracie and Her Amazing Recovery – a Jacob Method Story as told by Becky: The barn owner had recently taken on a mare, Gracie, with debilitating health issues whose previous owner could not afford medical treatment.  Gracie’s new domicile was an arena so she could walk around since her legs caused her great discomfort due to dropped pasterns that nearly dragged on the ground with each step.  One night she lay down as she normally did, but the following morning the owner found her unable to rise to her foot, that’s when I was called.  I arrived early that morning during feeding time to find Gracie wide eyed and visibly distressed.  I began using the Jacob Method (www.JacobMethod.com) to calm and relax her which began reducing the visible muscle spasms that inflicted her.  Gracie started to respond emotionally settling down and her muscles began to relax as I continued applying the Jacob Method.  Within 30 minutes, with the help of two other ladies, the three of us were able to grasp her legs and roll her over so I could access her other side that had become severely cold and stiff.  Once we got her rolled over I continued applying the Jacob Method and then suddenly Gracie sat up and started eating and drinking.  The three of us quickly constructed a tent made out of blankets and added a heater to accelerate her warmth which much to our surprise she took all the goings on in stride.  I continued applying the Jacob Method relieving the stiffness and moving the flow of healing energy when a peaceful calm and warmth filled the tent as Gracie sighed in relief and began to sleepily doze.  After about an hour we decided to see if we could get her to stand so we with the three of us coordinated and readied we helped Gracie to her feet where she stood proudly and refreshed.  It was unbelievable how deep Gracie’s pasterns were dropped; the worst case I had ever seen and her prognosis was grave.  But her new owner was determined to bring Gracie back to health and allow her to be a mother once again as she had been a wonderful broodmare and good mother in years past.  Within six months providing holistic treatment coupled with regular sessions of the Jacob Method Gracie’s legs and overall health improved with a full recovery surpassing the veterinarian’s expectations.  Gracie is now a happy new mom with a bouncing filly at her side; a breathtaking scene.

 

You can learn more about Becky and her amazing gifts at www.JacobMethod.com.  Becky is also a member of www.HorseMAREShip.com and can be found under the Women Owned Equine Biz Link.

 

Missy Wryn is the founder of Training the Whole Horse®, IRON FREE Riding, and HorseMAREship™ plus inventor of the ALL-IN-ONE Training Halter Bitless Bridle.  Specializing in problem and dangerous horses Missy has developed a unique approach to training and riding horses Iron Free.  Training the Whole Horse® is the foundation to Missy’s innovative and simpler approach to training your horse using effective communication that your horse will understand, honor and respect while having fun and being safer riding Iron Free (no bits – no spurs).  Check Missy’s schedule for appearances and lectures in your area at www.MissyWryn.com or schedule an Intensive for you and your horse by calling 866-821-0374.   

 

Missy Wryn is also CEO and founder of Natures Balance Care, LLC.  Natures Balance Care is the manufacturer of organic approved (OMRI) fly control skin care products for dogs, horses and organic livestock.  Visit www.NaturesBalanceCare.com

WHITE ‘N BRITE™ SHAMPOO AND BODY WASH ADDED TO THE VETROLIN® FAMILY

Make Vetrolin® Products Your Choice for Performance Grooming

PHOENIX – April 29, 2009 – No rider competes alone.  It takes time and dedication to make your horse look “horse show” ready.  Now with the addition of White ‘N Brite™ Shampoo and White ‘N Brite™ Body Wash to the Vetrolin® line, your grooming entourage just got larger and more efficient.

Vetrolin® products offer a complete line of grooming solutions for equine competitors – the performance line that provides professional results.

“Vetrolin® products contain ingredients that provide premium quality grooming results equine competitors have trusted to help make their horses look like champions for more than 20 years,” said Alyssa Barngrover, brand manager, Farnam Horse Products.  “Vetrolin® products are also renowned for the essential oils and invigorating aroma that sets them apart from the competition.”

Vetrolin® White ‘N Brite™ Shampoo and Body Wash are deep-cleaning shampoos with optical coat brighteners that brighten light-colored coats, enhance highlights on dark-colored coats and remove even the worst yellow stains.  They are great for dogs too.

Other Vetrolin® products that clean and condition include:

·     Bath – A premium quality, high-lathering shampoo that contains protein-enriched conditioners to repair split ends, vitamins and PABA sunscreen to help protect the coat from harsh elements.  Great for dogs too.

·     Body Wash – Vetrolin® bath formula in a one-step applicator that cleans without scrubbing.  Eliminates buckets and sponges to make bathing easier after every ride.

·     Green Spot Out – A spray-on, dry clean shampoo removes stains easily; works without water and is great when there’s no time or the weather is too cold for bathing.  Excellent spot cleaner for light-colored coats.

·     Conditioner – An intense moisturizer with Solar Guard® Color-Keeper.  Protects the mane, tail and coat from fading for up to 8 days, while restoring strength and elasticity.  Great for dogs too.

Vetrolin® products that Detangle and Shine include:

·     Detangler – An instant detangler and conditioner that utilizes a cosmetic-grade silicone to leave manes and tails tangle-free with a healthy-looking shine. 

·     Shine – Ready-to-use spray contains salon-quality silicone plus conditioners to put a brilliant shine on coats and detangles manes and tails.  Less saddle slip makes it a trusted favorite.

Vetrolin® products that soothe and invigorate include: 

·     Liniment – An invigorating, aromatic liniment that stimulates blood flow to help relieve minor stiffness, soreness and inflammation.  Mix into a bucket of water for an exhilarating body brace.

·     Liniment Gel – This gel formula contains counter-irritants for a deep-penetrating, warming sensation.  Stimulates blood flow and promotes instant relief for sore muscles and joints.  Contains hyaluronic acid to nourish the coat.

“At Farnam, respecting the environment is more than just good business practice – it is the right thing to do,” said Heather Hoff, senior vice president, Farnam Horse Products.  “To demonstrate our commitment to the environment, Vetrolin® products are manufactured using bottles made of recyclable materials.”

Vetrolin® White ‘N Brite™ Shampoo and Body Wash join Vetrolin® Bath, Body Wash, Conditioner and Green Spot Out, Shine, Detangler, Liniment and Liniment Gel as the Official Grooming Products of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). 

 

About Farnam Companies, Inc.

Over the past six decades, Farnam Companies, Inc., has grown to one of the most widely recognized names in the animal health products industry and has become one of the largest marketers of equine products in the country. No one knows horses better than Farnam. That’s why no one offers a more complete selection of horse care products. Farnam’s Horse Products serve both the pleasure horse and the performance horse markets with products for fly control, hoof and leg care, grooming, wound treatment, leather care supplies, plus feed and nutritional supplements. For information about Farnam® Horse Products in the U.S. call toll free at (800) 234-2269 or visit www.farnamhorse.com.

AHA and Western Apparel Company, Cacties, Partner

The Arabian Horse Association (AHA), of Aurora, Colo., recently announced its corporate alliance with Cacties, an up-and-coming apparel company based in Nashville, Tenn., making waves for its quality and attention to detail in every product. Cacties is the new, official apparel line of AHA, where members can get members-only apparel adorned with the AHA logo on luxurious fabrics.

“We are very pleased to add Cacties as a corporate partner. The quality of Cacties’ product is second to none, from the neckwear to the classic western shirts. We are very excited to offer such stellar apparel to our membership,” says Jim Gordon, Director of Publications and Corporate Alliances.

Still a young company, the style of Cacties draws inspiration from an old heritage—the spirit of the American West. Cacties product brings the durability and iconic symbols of the range to the boardroom in a stylish and playful simplicity. Visit MyCacties.com to shop and read creative quips about each product. Look for Cacties apparel at AHA national shows and events.

AHA is a major equine association serving 37,000 members across North America. It registers and maintains a database of more than one million Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses and administers approximately $3 million in annual prize money. AHA produces championship events, recognizes close to 600 Arabian horse shows and distance rides and provides activities and programs that promote breeding and ownership. For information about Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses, call 303-696-4500, e-mail info@ArabianHorses.org or visit ArabianHorses.org

Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society Announces the Bluebonnet Rescue Horse Training Challenge

The Bluebonnet Rescue Horse Training Challenge is a competition in which volunteer foster homes and professional trainers work with a Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society foster horse for three months (starting in early July 2009) and will compete in the Challenge at the 2009 Bluebonnet Horse Expo on October 10, 2009.

 

The goals of the Challenge are to:

·        Introduce the public to talented rescue horses

·        Showcase the training abilities of Bluebonnet foster homes

·        Produce horses who are ready to go to work for their adopters

 

The competition is open to any BEHS member In TX, AR, OK or LA who applies to foster and is approved, as well as professional trainers whose property is inspected and approved.  If you are not currently an approved foster home or BEHS member, you can join the rescue at http://www.bluebonnetequine.org/help/joinbehs.htm and download a fostering application at http://www.bluebonnetequine.org/help/foster.htm and we’ll get you set up to go. 

 

The Bluebonnet Fostering Coordinator and the Challenge organizers will select a pool of eligible horses.  Participants will apply to compete in the Challenge by June 5, 2009 and will be able to list their top three choices of a horse to work with.  For the first year, BEHS foster homes may compete with a foster already in their possession as long as no professional trainers have handled the horse in the six months preceding the Challenge Competition (held on October 10 at the Bluebonnet Horse Expo in Austin, Texas).  If you wish to compete with a foster horse already in your possession, note that on your application.

 

Horses will be assigned on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.  Each participant will be responsible for picking up his or her horse from its foster home between June 15 and July 1, 2009.

 

Each eligible horse will come with a current, negative Coggins and have current vaccinations.  His/her previous foster home will also complete an evaluation sheet assessing the horse’s abilities and training to the best of the foster home’s ability. 

 

When the participant picks up his/her horse, he/she will have one week to turn in an evaluation worksheet to the Challenge organizers.  He/she will have up until the competition on October 10, 2009 to work with the horse. 

 

The Challenge will include the following divisions:

·        Professional trainer - anyone who is paid for their training services

·        Experienced foster home – someone who has been a foster home for at least two years

·        Novice foster home – someone who has fostered less than two years

·        Youth – participants 17 and under as of January 1, 2009.

 

If a foster home chooses, he/she may pay training fees to a professional trainer for a Challenge-eligible horse.  That horse and trainer will then compete in the professional trainer category.

 

Horses in the professional trainer division will compete under saddle.  All other divisions will compete in either an under saddle subcategory or an in-hand subcategory.

 

At the Challenge, all horses will compete over an obstacle course and will be allowed an additional 10 minutes for a freestyle presentation.  This may include tricks, presentation of “before and after” history, etc. 

 

The contest will be judged by a panel of equine professionals.  Each horse/trainer combination will be scored on:

Improvement from initial assessment

Condition of horse

Obstacle course

Presentation/freestyle

 

Scores will be tabulated.  The highest two scoring horse/trainer combinations in each division will be named Champion and Reserve Champion for their division. 

 

The division Champions and Reserve Champions will then do another 10 minute presentation, after which the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion will be chosen. 

 

The horses who participate in the Challenge will not be available for adoption until the end of the Challenge.  All horses will go up for Adoption the day of the contest.  Horses who are not broke to ride will be offered for adoption for $300.  Horses who are broke to ride will be offered for adoption for $750.  Pre-approved adopters may adopt and take home the horse after the Challenge.  If more than one pre-approved adopter wishes to adopt the same horse, they may bid up the adoption fee and the highest bidder will adopt the horse.  Adoption applications will also be accepted the day of the Challenge but those adopters will not be allowed to adopt until their property is inspected and approved.

 

Additional rules:

All participants must be professional trainers or current members of Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society in good standing.

Foster horses may not be handled/trained by any other individual or trainer from July 1 – October 10, 2009.

All foster homes who compete must sign a contract stating that they agree to foster the horse for three months after the Challenge is complete (unless he/she is adopted beforehand) or forfeit their winnings.

Competitors will be responsible for the cost of feeding their horse, shavings/bedding, and farrier work during the Challenge and the foster period after the Challenge.  Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society will reimburse $10 of every farrier visit, paste de-wormers, pre-approved veterinary care, and pre-approved corrective farrier work and medications.

There must be at least two people signed up per division in order for that division to be offered.

 

Prizes:

The Champion in the professional trainer category will receive $100 cash prize as long as there are at least 3 participants in that category.  Prizes for the Champions in other categories are TBA.  The Grand Champion will receive a $500 cash prize, and the Reserve Grand Champion will receive a $250 cash prize. 

 

If you are interested in participating in the Bluebonnet Rescue Horse Training Challenge, please email Jennifer at jenn@bluebonnetequine.org for an application.  You can also visit http://www.bluebonnetequine.org or call (888) 542 5163 for more info.

ECLIPSE PRESS, THE HORSE TEAM FOR THRIFTY HORSEKEEPING

Blog and Downloadable Chapter Available Each Month on TheHorse.com

 

Lexington, KY (April 29, 2009) – Learn what the experts have to say about maximizing your equine dollars during these difficult economic times in Thrifty Horsekeeping, a free downloadable book that will be available in monthly installments on www.TheHorse.com.

 

Weekly excerpts from each month’s chapter will appear on the Thrifty Horsekeeping blog at http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/thrifty-horse-keeping/ and users will be asked to share their tips for economizing. User comments will be incorporated into the final chapter. Thrifty Horsekeeping will contain eight chapters that range from owning and leasing options to feeding and horse health care. Sources include horse farm owners, veterinarians, farriers, lawyers, and trainers. At the end of each month, the entire chapter can be downloaded as a PDF file. The first installment appears April 27.

 

Written by Alexandra Beckstett, Thrifty Horsekeeping is a joint project of Eclipse Press and The Horse magazine.

 

“The No. 1 request we get from our readers is for more tips on how to save money during these trying economic times,” said Kim Brown, publisher of The Horse. “We are excited to be working with Eclipse Press on Thrifty Horsekeeping while offering our readers a unique resource. We hope we receive a lot of great ideas and feedback from our online users.”

 

Other books on horse care and horse health published by Eclipse Press can be purchased at www.ExclusivelyEquine.com, the official store of the Blood-Horse, or at any major bookstore.

McLain Ward Springs to Saugerties for Pre-Season Footing Test

Saugerties, NY - April 29, 2009 - Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and Chair of HITS' newly formed High Performance Committee, McLain Ward journeyed to the HITS-on-the-Hudson facility in Saugerties, New York this past weekend for a pre-season footing test with HITS President and CEO, Tom Struzzieri. This facility will host the HITS Saugerties Spring and Summer Show Series on May 20-June 7, July 15-August 2, and August 26-September 13.

 

"I was very impressed with the new ground. I took a few turns, and it felt very good," Ward said. "I was glad to be here today to get a first look at the new footing and contribute my feedback and knowledge. I appreciate the huge effort and attention to detail that Tom and HITS is making to ensure that the footing here is a good product. From what I saw today, I would say it's a great improvement."

 

In collaboration with Ward, Struzzieri made the decision to redo the footing in the grand prix ring, all of the jumper rings and schooling areas, as well as many of the hunter rings. 

 

The new footing is a mixture of sand and textiles (a fiber/felt mix) that HITS is the sole provider for, and it is the same footing used to rave reviews at the HITS Desert Circuit in Thermal, CA. The material is so well-praised and popular that the same additives also were used in the footing at the 2009 Rolex FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas. 

 

Allen Rheinheimer, Assistant Production Manager at the World Cup Finals this year, said that the materials supplied by HITS for the footing there "worked out fantastic." He added, "Everyone thought the footing was great. The company was top-notch to deal with, and everything was facilitated very well."

 

The company that installed the footing in Las Vegas has also purchased material from HITS to repair show rings at Old Salem Farm. Rheinheimer is the horse show manager, and he explained, "We're using that same material and adding it to the footing at Old Salem. The product is outstanding."

 

"I was quite honored to get the call to assist with the footing for the World Cup Finals," said Struzzieri. "We really got it right in California this past year, so to have Allen reach out to us was a true testament to the product. I'm excited to be able to bring the same product to Saugerties for our exhibitors in the North East." 

 

"Having McLain here today to test the product in the early stages was a great help," added Struzzieri. "He's brought a lot to the table, and it's been great working together."

 

HITS continually works with exhibitors and uses their input to make improvements to their facilities. This year, they started a High Performance Committee, which is chaired by Ward. Ward is only one of many riders, trainers, and owners that HITS consults with, and the relationship has been mutually beneficial. "Tom and I started working together late last summer," Ward explained. "I was excited to team up and provide my consultation to help benefit the show, the riders, and HITS. It's been a very positive experience, and I'm looking forward to continuing to work together."

  

Ward continued, "The High Performance Committee has been very positive. There seems to be a lot of momentum from both the Committee members and from Tom and HITS. Saugerties is an important venue in our corner of the country, and everyone is committed to making it a top-notch experience. The team has been enthusiastic about all the improvements and new ideas. I think everyone is looking forward to a successful season in Saugerties. It's a place we all want to be."

 

In addition to new footing, HITS has invested more in prize money for hunter and jumper classics, has the popular new wood and metal stalls, and an upgraded VIP area. HITS also plans to use the old footing from the rings to improve the walkways around the competition areas.

 

Ward concluded, "Saugerties is a fantastic venue with first class infrastructure - first class stabling, Grand Prix ring... all the rings really! You can bring your entire stable here to compete, and you can't beat the prize money. It's a great place for us to compete in the North East."

 

The HITS Spring and Summer Show Series prize list has been mailed and is available online. Entries for the competition are due soon, so please visit www.HitsShows.com for more information and to reserve your spot today.

 

HITS Saugerties Spring and Summer Show Series and the 19th Annual Marshall & Sterling League National Finals Fast Facts

EVENT:

HITS Saugerties Spring and Summer Show Series presented by HITS, Inc. 

WHAT: 

An eight-week hunter/jumper horse show series produced by HITS, Inc. that runs from May through September annually. The HITS Saugerties Spring and Summer Show Series offer two Grand Prix events each week. Every Grand Prix offered at HITS Saugerties is a qualifying event for the $100,000 USGPL Invitational Grand Prix, which is held each year during the USGPL Finals at HITS Commonwealth Park in Culpeper, Virginia. 

 

The 19th Annual Marshall & Sterling League National Finals is the Grand Finale of the season and highlights the League's most accomplished riders in 12 different divisions. The Marshall & Sterling Finals marks the final week of the HITS Saugerties season each year and, in addition to the four-day competition, features the Annual Top Ten Awards Dinner, which honors the leading riders in each division based on their performance throughout the season. The League awards more than $30,000 in prize money during the National Finals. 

WHERE: 

HITS-on-the-Hudson 

454 Washington Avenue Extension

Saugerties, NY 12477 

Phone: 845.246.5515 (during horse shows) 

WHEN: 

Daily, Wednesday-Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during show weeks

HITS-on-the-Hudson I: May 20-24 

HITS-on-the-Hudson II: May 27-31 

HITS-on-the-Hudson III: June 3-7 

HITS-on-the-Hudson IV: July 15-19 

HITS-on-the-Hudson V: July 22-26 

USEF Junior Hunter East Coast Championships: July 27-29

NY Horse & Pony Show (VI): July 29 - August 2

HITS-on-the-Hudson VII: August 26-30

New in 2009! HITS-on-the-Hudson VIII:  September 2-6  

Marshall & Sterling League National Finals: September 10-13

 

ADMISSION: 

Wednesday - Friday: Free

Saturday & Sunday: Adults $5, children under the age of 12 get free admission. All proceeds from the gate go directly to Family of Woodstock, Inc., a non-for-profit organization serving Ulster County. 

DIRECTIONS: 

The HITS Saugerties Show Series are held at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, New York, located just two miles from Exit 20 on the NYS Thruway. 

 

Trucks From The North: Exit 20 off of Interstate 87 (New York State Thruway) After tollbooth, turn right onto State Route 32 North and go 1.5 miles Bear slight right at Y, and go 0.1 miles to 4-way stop Turn right at 4-way stop onto Malden Tpke. (County Rt 34) and go 1.6 miles Turn right onto Route 9W South and go 0.4 miles Turn right onto Krout Road Show grounds will be on left 

Trucks From The South: Exit 20 off of Interstate 87 (New York State Thruway) After tollbooth, turn left onto Ulster Avenue and go 0.2 miles Turn right and follow State Route 32 North for 1.6 miles Bear slight right at Y and come to 4-way stop. - 0.1 miles Turn right at 4-way stop and go 1.6 miles Turn right onto Route 9W South and go 0.4 miles Turn right onto Krout Road. Show grounds will be on left 

Cars From The North: Exit 20 off of Interstate 87 (New York State Thruway) After tollbooth, turn right onto State Route 32 North and go 1.0 miles Turn right onto Peoples Road and go 0.9 miles Turn left after train tracks onto Canoe Hill Road and go 0.5 miles Canoe Hill Road becomes Krout Road - 0.8 miles Show grounds will be 1.8 miles on right 

Cars From The South: Exit 20 off of Interstate 87 (New York State Thruway) After tollbooth, turn left onto Ulster Avenue 0.2 miles Turn right onto State Route 32 North and go 1.0 miles Turn right onto Peoples Road and go 0.9 miles Turn left after train tracks onto Canoe Hill Road and go 0.5 miles Canoe Hill Road becomes Krout Road - 0.8 miles Show grounds will be 1.8 miles on right 

 

SPECTATOR PARKING& ENTRANCE: Gates D or E only. Parking is free. 

EXHIBITOR ENTRANCES: 

Gate A - Permanent Stabling, Gold Stalls 

Gates B & C - Permanent Stabling, Silver Stalls 

Gates D & E - Tent Stabling & Ship-In 

Gate F - Trailer and RV Parking 

THE FACILITY:

HITS-on-the-Hudson, Saugerties, New York The HITS equestrian facility is nestled at the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, just one mile outside the village of Saugerties. The show grounds feature 10 different competition rings, including a Grand Prix ring, a Main Hunter ring, two jumper rings, four hunter rings, an equitation ring and six separate schooling areas. Spectator seating is available at every ring and in the VIP Pavilion, which overlooks the Grand Prix ring. Spectator parking is located off the Washington Avenue entrances at Gates D or E. For a map of the property, please click here. 

REFRESHMENTS: 

HITS-on-the-Hudson offers an on-site Food Service Pavilion and Ice Cream Parlor featuring an assortment of frozen delights and Starbucks coffee. The HITS Bar and Grill serves up pizza and cold beer in a spacious air-conditioned lounge. Spectators can grab some lunch and find a grassy spot on the berm while watching some of the world's best show jumping with the entire family right here in the Hudson Valley. 

SHOPPING: 

The HITS Saugerties Mall features clothing, tack, fine jewelry, custom footwear, art and photography, and custom HITS souvenirs. 

LODGING: 

(in Saugerties & Kingston, more listed online and in the prize list)

Holiday Inn | 845.338.0400

Comfort Inn | 845.246.1565

Marriott Courtyard | 845.382.2300

Howard Johnson Inn  845.246.9511

Quality Inn & Suites | 845.339.3900

Rodeway Inn 845.331.2900

HITS-TORY: 

The HITS-on-the-Hudson equestrian facility was inaugurated in the spring of 2004. In just five years, the HITS Saugerties horse show circuit has become a mecca for East Coast horsemen hosting the largest hunter/jumper horse shows offered during the spring and summer in the United States. 

 

During the course of the circuit, the HITS-on-the-Hudson equestrian facility offers stabling for over 2,000 horses, more than 250 different classes each week, and over $1 million in prize money, more than any other circuit during the spring and summer. Riders of all levels, including current and former Olympians - as well as some of the most popular up-and-coming riders - compete at HITS Saugerties. Each year, on average more than 3,000 horses, 4,500 horseman and 2,500 spectators attend HITS Saugerties and more than $1 million in prize money is awarded throughout the seven-week season. 

 

The economic impact of the HITS Saugerties Show Series on the surrounding community is estimated at $50 million, which reflects spending on food, lodging, living expenses and entertainment in the area during the series of shows. 

AYA OFFERS FUN AND EXCITING EQUINE ACTIVITIES FOR LOCAL YOUTH

Local Youths are invited to participate in Youth Activities, June 22-July 4

MOSCOW, Idaho—Summer break is just around the corner and that means the 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show, June 22-July 4, will be coming to the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson! While the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) is in town, the Appaloosa Youth Association (AYA) will host a plethora of fun activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Youth/Collegiate Horse Judging Contest is a great opportunity for any individual or team interested in brushing up on their equine judging skills. Members of 4-H, FFA, a regional or national AYA club or any other accredited breed association are eligible and encouraged to compete in the youth division. The two divisions, youth and collegiate, are open to teams and individuals. Entry fees are $25 for individuals and $75 for teams.

The Stick Horse Rodeo is open to all youths 13 and under. This fun event gives little buckaroos the opportunity to select their mounts and compete for cool prizes in rope and barrel races, dummy roping and more! This event is free, so be sure to sign up at the National Show Office in the Kirk Fordice Equestrian Center.

The Youth Coloring Page Contest will be hosted at the ApHC Information Booth at the 2009 Cowboy Way Trading Post in the Trade Mart. Kids can put their artistic talent and eye for color to good use in this coloring competition. Winning entries are published in the September issue of Appaloosa Journal.

Though youths don’t have to be members to have fun with the AYA, there are a lot of fun activities non-members are missing out on! Joining is easy—for $10, become a member of the first equine youth association in the nation. Youth members get an online subscription to Appaloosa Journal, a free Appaloosa E-mail address and more! Whether you have an Appaloosa or not, the AYA has something for you!

Educational Scholarships are available to AYA members in high school seeking an equine-related degree in an institution of higher learning. The Appaloosa Youth Foundation annually offers up to $9,000 in scholarships.

Annual Youth Contests allow AYA members to compete for various awards and prizes. Whether your talent lies in drawing and painting, photography or in writing—the AYA has a contest for everyone!

For more information about the AYA and its programs, or to join, please visit www.appaloosayouth.com.

The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) was established in 1938 with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing the Appaloosa breed. The ApHC has since registered more than 670,000 Appaloosas, which are known for their distinctive color, intelligence and even temperament. True to their reputation as an extremely versatile breed, Appaloosas can be found in nearly every discipline including racing, endurance riding and serving as reliable family horses. The international breed registry is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, the heart of the Palouse region—the Appaloosa breed’s namesake and point of origin.

THE WILD WEST BAND TO PERFORM AT 2009 COWBOY WAY TRADING POST

Up-and-coming Country Group will sing at the ApHC-hosted Moonlight Madness Sale

MOSCOW, Idaho—Get ready to enjoy the musical style of the up-and-coming country group, The Wild West Band. The musical quintet will perform during the Moonlight Madness Sale on Friday, June 26, at the 2009 Cowboy Way Trading Post hosted by the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) in Jackson, Mississippi. This concert event is free and open to the public—fans of honky-tonk tunes or heartfelt country ballads are guaranteed to enjoy The Wild West Band!

The Wild West Band has experienced recent success with their debut album, “Home Is Where The Hurt Is.” The album hit home with many country music listeners, quickly making it a success. The Wild West Band was rewarded in early 2009 when they signed with Nashville-based record company Stardust Records. Songs off their CD are being played on "Country Legends in the Making," a syndicated radio program that reaches more than 400 AM/FM stations throughout the world. The Wild West Band also has a song featured on the latest Stardust Records compilation album, which is being distributed to thousands of radio stations around the world, and is getting airplay on the Nashville Broadcasting Radio Network.

ApHC exhibitors and members may see a familiar face or two in The Wild West Band: Amy Steed, a long-time ApHC member from Cross Plains, Tenn., is one of the lead vocalists, and former ApHC member Glenn Steed of Springfield, Tenn., plays bass. The Wild West Band would not be what it is today without Darryl Douglas, songwriter, lead vocalist and lead guitar; Tim Glassford, percussion and backup vocals; and Kevin Douglas, rhythm guitar and backup vocals.

The ApHC is thrilled to have The Wild West Band perform at the Moonlight Madness Sale, so mark your calendars and join us on Friday, June 26, at 10 p.m. at the Trade Mart on the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson.

The 2009 Cowboy Way Trading Post is being held in conjunction with the 62nd National Appaloosa Show & 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show, from June 22 to July 4, at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds.

To learn more about The Wild West Band or sample their music, visit their official web site at www.thewildwestband.com. For more information about the ApHC and its events, visit www.appaloosa.com.

The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) was established in 1938 with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing the Appaloosa breed. The ApHC has since registered more than 670,000 Appaloosas, which are known for their distinctive color, intelligence and even temperament. True to their reputation as an extremely versatile breed, Appaloosas can be found in nearly every discipline including racing, endurance riding and serving as reliable family horses. The international breed registry is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, the heart of the Palouse region—the Appaloosa breed’s namesake and point of origin.

Memorial Service Held Today for Kentucky Derby Winner Alysheba

LEXINGTON, KY (April 29, 2009)  Today the Kentucky Horse Park remembered Kentucky Derby winner Alysheba in a memorial service at the Hall of Champions.

The famous son of Alydar was euthanized at 11:13 pm on March 27 at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky, where he was being treated after sustaining a serious injury in his stall at the Hall of Champions.  He had resided at the park for only five months.  The 25-year-old stallion was buried the following morning at the Hall of Champions, across from the grave of the legendary John Henry.

John Nicholson, Executive Director of the park stated, "Although Alysheba left us a month ago, we felt that it was fitting for a Kentucky Derby winner to be memorialized during Derby week.  This is a very special and exciting time of year for everyone who loves Thoroughbred racing, as we anticipate the next Kentucky Derby winner.  We couldn't imagine a better time to honor the life and remember the accomplishments of Alysheba.

"During the too-brief time he lived at the Kentucky Horse Park, Alysheba stole the hearts of our park employees - especially those who worked with him each day and frequently commented on his loving disposition.  We are glad that his fans and those who revere champions joined us in this service to honor Alysheba."

Before coming to the Kentucky Horse Park, Alysheba spent the previous eight years of his life in the royal stables of His Majesty King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, after standing his first years at stud at William S. Farish's Lane's End Farm in Versailles, Kentucky.  Known on the track as "America's horse," he was sent to the Kentucky Horse Park as a gift from His Majesty to the American people in October 2008.

Bred by Preston Madden at Hamburg Place in Lexington, Alysheba (Alydar-Bel Sheba, by Lt. Stevens) was sold as a yearling to Dorothy and Pam Scharbauer who campaigned him under the guidance of Hall of Fame trainer, Jack Van Berg. 

Alysheba won the 1987 Kentucky Derby (G1), Preakness Stakes (G1), Super Derby (G1), and an Eclipse Award as Champion 3-year-old colt.  As a 4-year-old, he was even better, winning six Grade 1 stakes:  the Strub Stakes, Santa Anita Handicap, Iselin Handicap, Woodward Stakes, Meadowlands Cup and the Breeders' Cup Classic. He was ridden in 17 consecutive starts by Hall of Fame Jockey, Chris McCarron. 

Alysheba is listed at #42 on The Blood-Horse magazine's list of the Top 100 U.S. Racehorses of the 20th Century, one notch above another Kentucky Derby-winner, Northern Dancer. 

His career highlights also included Horse of the Year honors and track records for 1 1/4 miles at Belmont and The Meadowlands.  Along the way, he defeated Risen Star, Forty Niner, Bet Twice, Seeking the Gold, and another Kentucky Derby-winner, the ill-fated Ferdinand.  Until two-time Horse of the Year Cigar came along, Alysheba was the world's richest Thoroughbred, with earnings of $6,679,242.

In addition to John Nicholson, other speakers at Alysheba's Memorial Service were Preston Madden, Clarence Scharbauer III, representing the Scharbauer family and Valor Farm in Pilot Point, TX, trainer Jack van Berg and jockey Chris McCarron.

Nicholson concluded, "We want to express our appreciation to the veterinarians at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute for doing everything humanly and humanely possible for Alysheba.  We also want to thank His Majesty King Abdullah for sending Alysheba to our park so he could be reunited with many of his fans and taste the sweet, spring Kentucky Bluegrass once again." 

Park Hours and Rates: From March 15 through October 31, the park is open seven days a week.  Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children 7-12.  Children six and under are always admitted free of charge.  Admission includes the International Museum of the Horse - In Association with the Smithsonian Institution - and the American Saddlebred Museum & Gift Shop.  For more information on the park, go to www.KyHorsePark.com.

NRCHA and Ward Ranch Announce 2009 Raffle Colt

It's that time again. The National Reined Cow Horse Association and the Ward Ranch have announced that the 2009 Raffle Colt, generously donated by the Ward Ranch, is a 2-year-old by Reminics Pep and out of Dual Jazanic, named Fresnonic.

The raffle colt has been an institution for the NRCHA, and the winner is drawn annually during the Open finals of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity. The colt comes with a paid entry fee for the 2010 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity, for the Open, Non Pro, or Amateur.

As always, the raffle colt represents the genetic excellence of the Ward Ranch. Reminics Pep, a son of Reminic out of Peppy Remedy, has lifetime earnings over $135,000. He was the 1998 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Champion, and then went on to be the Open Co-Reserve Champion at the River Front Farms NRCHA Derby. He was also successful in National Cutting Horse Association competition, making the semi-finals at the Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association Futurity, and was a finalist at the Gold Coast winter Championship. He was also the 1999 Arizona Sun Circuit Open Derby Champion.

The donation cost for a chance is $10, and that donation supports the annual NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity and NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Horse Sale incentive. For more information on the raffle colt, please contact the NRCHA Office at 580-759-4949.

The Ward Ranch was founded in 1972 by NRCHA Hall of Fame member Greg Ward and his family. Ward Ranch was built physically and genetically around the much-acclaimed mare Fililinic, one of the industry's leading producers. She was the dam of 1972 Futurity Champion Sugarnic, and grandmother of 1981 Champion Sugar Remedy, and many other futurity finalists are credited to this mare.

In 1998, the Ward Ranch expanded with the acquisition of a breeding facility on the Kings River in Kingsburg, California.

The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse.

Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes John Deere, Adequan(r), Bob's Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today's equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at www.nrcha.com.

Shelley Van den Neste and Ezmarelde Win Big at Wellington Dressage Again

West Palm Beach, FL – After earning High score honors in at the Wellington Classic show in December, Shelley Van den Neste and Ezmarelde La Biladora returned and gave a repeat performance not only winning top honors at the recent Wellington Classic Dressage III Show, but also qualifying for the Regional 3 Championships in Training and First Level. Van den Neste, owner of Sunrise Farms Sport Horses Inc. in Newberry, Florida, competed Ezmarelde for owner Brooke Horan of Vertu Sport Horses in Park City, Utah.

“Ezmarelde has the greatest attitude about everything,” Van den Neste said. “After she was imported she had two foals, the last of which chewed her tail off to the end of the bone and so we had to wait a year after starting her under saddle to show her. Thanks to TailRX it grew out long and healthy and the first time I showed her it was like she was born for the show ring.

Van den Neste said Ezmarelde’s training has consisted of lots of miles of cross training on trails, work over small gymnastics and once a week in the dressage arena. “She never looks twice at anything that would ordinarily spook a green horse,” Van den Neste said. She is a Westfalian  out of Ehrentanz and a Florestan dam line. She’s a 16.1 hand plain bay mare, but she has a long, graceful catlike walk and a ground-covering trot. She received two 9’s on her test, one of which was in her stretch down circle which confirms her basic training is correct.”

Van den Neste, a USDF Bronze and Silver medalist and an L graduate who currently competes two horses at the FEI level, is also an accomplished clinician who regularly holds clinics at her Sunrise Farms Sport Horses Inc. Van den Neste holds a variety of clinics including adult dressage retreat weekends where students can bring their horses to her facility and learn to cross train their dressage horses. “This is an intense learning weekend with a group dinner on Saturday night in the ranch house,” Van den Neste said. “I also recently hosted a clinic for the University of Florida Dressage Team to help them prepare for the Intercollegiate Dressage Association National Championships.”

Sunrise Farms Sport Horses Inc., located in Newberry, Florida, offers quality training services and specializes in clinics. They also offer rehab services for show horses that are having problems returning to the show ring. For more information on the farm, contact Van den Neste at srfsporthorses@aol.com.

Liz Mitten Ryan’s Horse Wins 2009 Silver Nautilus Book Award in a Literary First

The Truth According to Horses conceived and written by horses for people. 

Liz Mitten Ryan, world-renowned Artist, Author and Animal Communicator, is delighted to announce that her warmblood mare Premiere Edition (Prima) has won a Silver Nautilus book award in the Animals / Nature Category for The Truth According to Horses. This book, a literary first, was conceived and written by horses for people. It is the second in a series of four books co-authored by Mitten Ryan and her animals. One With the Herd – A Spiritual Journey won five IP awards at Book Expo America last year. 

Nautilus Book Awards Winners (www.nautilusbookawards.com) are carefully selected in a unique three-tier judging process by experienced teams of book reviewers, librarians, authors, editors, bookstore owners, and leaders in the publishing industry. Mitten Ryan and Prima are in terrific company, as past Nautilus winners include Deepak Chopra, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Eckhart Tolle, Barbara Kingsolver, Thich Nnat Hanh and Dr. Andrew Weil. 

The Truth According to Horses is a handbook to life through which the horses reveal a higher perspective and a wisdom untarnished by human mass-mind belief. Living year-around in close proximity with the herd and in seclusion from the rest of the world, Mitten Ryan has identified a door to spiritual realms and mysteries that many would like to open, but do not know how.  

“The bulk of this book is Prima’s inspiration and was given to me through a series of telepathic communications,” said Mitten Ryan, commenting on the award. “The honor is hers.”  

Prima, the first horse to win a book award, had this to say:  

Our dream is for all hearts and minds to be united in truth. Spend some time with us in the quiet of communion, asking nothing but the truth. Let us help you remember a better world where we are all united in freedom and joy. 

The remarkable setting of Mitten Ryan’s Gateway 2 Ranch along with her books, art, horses and life-changing retreats, are attracting international media attention. The horses are excited about interacting with people through visits and the series of Understanding the Infinite workshops planned for 2009. Visit Mitten Ryan and the herd at: www.lizmittenryan.com.

Fast, Faster, Fastest: Woodside Spring Preview

Jumper action at the Woodside Spring Preview (Apr. 23-26) was fast, faster, and then fastest in the big jumper classes. Guillherme Jorge (Brazil) designed a challenging track for the $7,500 Woodside Jumper Classic and 32 horse and rider pairs took a shot at the top prize. Seven were clear after the first round and then the speed contest began. Danielle Cojuangco set the pace with Isotop and Mariano Alario quickly bested her time aboard Vayrac de St. Hermelle (Mia Beckham, owner). Duncan McFarlane stopped the clock in a blazing time aboard Mr. Whoopy (Simone Coxe, owner) and let the remaining riders try to go faster. 

Helen McNaught tried with Caballo, but one more stride in the first line meant she was just off McFarlane’s time. Buddy Brown then relegated McNaught to third when he slid into second after a stellar jump off round aboard Nola 4. Brown has a lifetime of accolades and he gave a riding lesson aboard a very challenging, but talented horse. 

  The riders in the Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic were also speed demons. Again Danielle Cojuangco set the pace with Isotop, and then Marnye Langer and Glados moved ahead of them. Their lead was short lived when Emily Livermore and Marbridge Clover Diamond went a little faster. However, the veteran pair of Lindsay Ramar and Puma logged the fastest time of the class when they left out a stride in the first line of the jump off and galloped around the remainder of the course. “He is twelve and I’ve had him since he was five,” said Ramar. “I just know him really well and I know what I can do.” 

In the hunter division where the pace may have been a bit slower but not lacking style, Sammy Steiny rode her Kodachrome to the Large Junior Hunter championship. Sophie Verges took the reserve championship with Lifeline. Gail Morey rode her Crown Affair to the Amateur Owner Hunter 36 & Over championship, an extra special win since the gorgeous stallion celebrated a birthday during the show. Sue Saddlier and Double Eagle were reserve champions. Morey also captured the Junior/Amateur Owner Hunter Classic and Steiny was second. 

Julia Nagler earned two big victories in the equitation when she won both the USEF Junior and the USEF Talent Search. Benson Carroll coaches both Nagler and Verges. “They are great girls and they work really hard,” said Carroll of his talented students who do equally well in all three rings – equitation, hunters, and jumpers. In the CPHA Foundation Verges took the top prize with Nagler right on her heels. 

Action resumes for a second week at the Woodside Spring Classic (April 30 - May 3) to conclude the two week, A-rated Woodside spring shows. For complete results visit the Langer Equestrian Group website at www.langershows.com.

Clinics at Sierra Woods Farm and Quail Run Farm

Indianapolis, IN - April 29, 2009 - This past weekend Diane Carney was invited to the teach a hunter/jumper clinic at Sierra Woods Farm, located in Indianapolis, IN. The clinic was held April 25 and 26, and focused on riders working hard and on having strong fundamentals.  

Four groups of riders participated in the clinic at Sierra Woods Farm, which was organized by the owner, Amy Tilson. Diane focused on basics such as steering, collection, and keeping the riders' horse in front of their leg. "The clinic was great," commented Tilson. "I thought Diane did an excellent job. She really brought a whole new perspective to everyone here; everybody really enjoyed it and they learned a lot."

"Sierra Woods Farm was beautiful and they did an excellent job putting the clinic together," said Carney. "I thought all the groups did very well; the riders have a good foundation and they were very hard workers."

After teaching at Sierra Woods Farm, Carney traveled to Omaha, NE to complete a clinic at Quail Run Farm on April 27 and 28. The clinic at Quail Run Farm was very well organized despite facing some scheduling conflicts because it was held on a Monday and a Tuesday. "We had to run the clinic sessions a little later in the day because the riders had conflicts with school and work," explained organizer Jim Urban. "Diane, with her unending energy, is willing to take on that challenging schedule. We're having a great time and our riders are learning a lot."

The three groups of riders from Quail Run Farm ride at an intermediate to advanced level and several are preparing to participate in the USHJA Emerging Athletes Clinics later this month. 

"The indoor arena at Quail Run has very good footing, the jumps were beautifully painted," said Carney. "The riders are getting a reminder of their outside rein and their diagonal aides; how to use their inside leg and their outside rein. The course asked two questions of the riders; could they balance their horse turning, and could they balance their horse turning and going forward. This was a difficult test day one, but on day two we had outstanding progress by all the riders. The three-session schedule started at 3pm and continued until 9:30 p.m., which was just right for the riders work and school demands. They all worked hard and did a great job."

Carney plans to attend a horse show in Ocala, FL this weekend, and will also travel to the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Pennsylvania.

Carney is based out of Hampshire, IL, at her hunter/jumper show stable, Telluride Farm. She has been both an active participant and influential trainer in the hunter and jumper community for many years. Her contributions to the industry extend to the many clinics that she teaches every year, in addition to those that she hosts annually for U.S. Show Jumping Chef d'Equipe George H. Morris and top hunter/jumper trainer Don Stewart Jr.

Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment is Safe to Use During Competition

Recent concern in the competitive show world over tested substances has compelled W. F. Young, Inc., marketers of Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment and Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment Gel, to confirm that neither product contains any ingredient banned by the United States Equestrian Federation.  Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment, when used as directed as a topical liniment application, is safe to use prior to, during, and after competition. Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment, which has been used for over 117 years, is and always has been a safe solution to ease sore muscles and relieve joint pain.

 

Dr. Harry Hayes, Vice President of Research & Development at W. F. Young, says, “There has been a lot of misinformation circulating since the 2008 Olympics when a few horses were disqualified for testing positive for a substance which has since been banned.  Competitive riders became apprehensive about all topically-applied liniments, and this statement from the USEF should calm their concerns.   Absorbine® Veterinary Liniment is absolutely safe to use; it has never contained any ingredient harmful to the horse. It does not contain any banned substances.  Competitive riders have always trusted Absorbine® to bring safe, quality health care products to market – and will continue to earn their trust.”

 

A recent release from the United States Equestrian Federation’s Drug and Medication Group clarified the organization’s position on topical liniments.  “As a practical matter, provided the products containing these substances are administered only topically and as recommended by the manufacturer, there is no need for restricting their use during competitions under USEF rules,” according to the statement.

 

Absorbine® products are available nationwide in tack shops, farm supply stores, on-line dealers, and catalogs.  For a dealer near you or for more information, visit the Absorbine® website at www.absorbine.com.   Founded in 1892 by Wilbur Fenelon Young and his wife, Mary Ida, W. F. Young, Inc. has provided over a century of quality health care products for the equine industry.  The company is recognized as a worldwide leader in innovative, specialized health care brands that enhance the quality and enjoyment of life for families and their pets.

Plan emerging for mustangs from 3-Strikes Ranch

CHICAGO, (EWA) – In recent weeks, the tragic extent of problems at Jason Meduna’s 3-Strikes Ranch in Nebraska has unfolded. The sprawling facility, whose mission statement said they were “dedicated to working with the BLM and BLM three-striker horses”, was found to be littered with starving and dead horses. “Three-striker” is a reference to horses at risk of unrestricted sale (slaughter) under the Burn’s amendment that removed protections from older horses that had been offered for adoption by BLM three times.

Jerry Finch of Habitat for Horses, was one of the first people to arrive on site in Nebraska. Upon learning the extent of the problem, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), immediately sent fifteen people from around the country. All reports indicate that Emergency Services group has done a stellar job. Finch says he is thankful to all the volunteers, rescue organizations and local officials who are assisting and for the outpouring of concern for the horses.

Now, with the surviving horses safely removed to the local fair grounds, equine groups are coming together to re-home the surviving 211 horses.

The following information is being provided for those interested in helping in the process.

 

-Not withstanding the claim on the 3-Strikes web site that it was charging a $500 intake fee so that all horses could be gentled before allowing them to “roam free”; rescue workers on site indicate that most of the horses are completely wild.

Jerry Finch therefore warns that these horses will therefore require special facilities and handling until they can be gentled enough for transfer to ordinary horse owners.

 

-Any individuals wanting to adopt or claim a horse must contact either Michelle Conner at 719.651.3662 or Hilary Wood at 719.481.1490. Michelle and Hilary are from Front Range Equine Rescue and will be handling all the release and adoption paperwork.

 

-HSUS has indicated that they will remain engaged as long as they are needed. They are providing the current medical needs but a long-term plan must be developed. The horses have all been evaluated and a major issue is lice and particularly, tics. Some of the horses are bald, due to infestations.

 

-Hay is in good supply and additional volunteers are not needed at this time.

 

-The duration of allowed stay at the fairgrounds is under discussion, but assurances have been given that the Rodeo grounds may be used through May 9th.

 

-Anyone with information on potential long-term homing facilities should contact Jerry Finch at 409-682-6621

 

In an ironic coincidence, The Restore Our American Mustangs (ROAM) Act, HR 1018, introduced by Congressmen Nick Rahall and Raul Grijalva, will be considered before the full Committee on Natural Resources on Wednesday, April 29th at 10:00am (EST). The act would reverse the “three strikes” legislation for which the ranch is named. We are hopeful that this will result in the swift scheduling of a floor vote before the House of Representatives.

 

www.equinewelfarealliance.org

A sneak preview of the most interesting lots for the 12th International Luso-Brasileiro Auction

São Paulo, Brazil – Combined with the challenging economic climate, the winter may have appeared especially long in many places, but statistics from horse auctions around the world are showing Spring optimism compared to a slight down-turn in prices during the second half of last year. In fact, top prices at elite sales have started to exceed expectations in recent months, which has heightened the anticipation for the high-class lots that will come under the hammer for the 12th International Luso-Brasileiro Auction taking place at Coudelaria Ilha Verde next month.

 

Although the full catalogue has been on-line for several weeks now, it is worth providing a sneak preview of some of the most stunning Lusitanos that will be on offer.

 

Lot 1: ORLA – One of the star attractions of this auction, Orla is a wonderful broodmare model imported from Portugal, a daughter of Neptuno and Ilha, by Dragão II, providing an excellent bloodline with sporting aptitude. Her conformation is typical, with an angled physique, well-defined proportions and strong limbs, and she was awarded 76 points in the ABPSL approval. Orla’s movements are well balanced, demonstrating power with elasticity and amplitude. She is endowed with excellent maternal instincts, producing foals with good physique – well suited for sport – as well as good movement and character. Orla is in foal to Rio Pele, a tried and tested stallion in international Grand Prix dressage, a son of Hostil and Lai-Lai, by Novilheiro.

 

Lot 5: XAMA DO TOP – A black stallion standing just over 15.2hh (1m59) – very sweet and beautiful – Xamar do Top is a son of the great champion Quattro do Top, out of a mare by Visqueiro. He is currently being trained in dressage by virtue of his movement and flexibility. His mother, Gamarra, heralds from an important sporting line, making Xamar do Top the brother of Uimpossivel do Top – a horse of proven ability in the arena. With his typical conformation and beauty, he would be an excellent stallion for any new breeding program, as well as a horse that offers great pleasure to his rider.

 

Lot 9: ZAGUEIRO LS – This beautiful stallion is a son of Larápio and Brida Comando SN. His top line consolidates rare Coimbra ancestry, descended from Distinto, while his bottom line brings the blood of Xairel and Cenoura – carrying not only beauty, but primarily the functionality required for modern sport horses. A young stallion that is docile and ready to begin in dressage.

 

Lot 14: XAMA DA RAPOSA – This stallion, approved with 72 points, is a son of Inca (RC), who is being prepared for Prix St. Georges dressage. Very powerful and well built, he has the potential to be a top stallion, like his brothers Samba SS, Sedutor da Raposa and Talismã SS.

 

Lot 17: ZEUS DO BOSQUE – A beautiful palomino with wonderful stature, Zeus brings the breeding characteristics of Haras Fazenda do Bosque, conformation and a sporting aptitude. A son of the incomparable Donaire and Jacutinga do Top, a late daughter of Babel who produced excellent offspring at both Haras Fazenda do Bosque as well at TOP Agropecuária. Jacutinga’s mother is Ouja, an imported mare and a daughter of Jamonero III. Zeus do Bosque is assuredly predicted for medium-level dressage and working equitation, his credentials being his excellent temperament, intelligence, willingness to learn, and his rideability that have enchanted his professional riders. For sport or leisure, Zeus is special and brings the well-known and esteemed brand of “Do Bosque”.

 

Lot 19: ULTRA VO – A beautiful bright bay mare, a daughter of Luar SS and Deca, therefore twice carrying Vistosa – one of the pillars of the Lusitano breed – in her blood. Her father, Luar SS, was the first Lusitano to participate in the Pan American Games with the Brazilian team. Ultra comes with a foal at foot, Ervilha VO, a daughter of Vulcão dos Pinhais, also a son of Luar SS, and is in foal to Sol VO – making this a three-in-one lot.

 

TOLERAO DA BROA – “A brilliant horse to train,” according to Brazilian national dressage team coach Johan Zagers. “Not only because he has three wonderful gaits, but for his character and temperament. He likes to please his rider, he has a big heart, and his athletic potential make him not only a special sport horse, but a very interesting father.” The 12th International Luso-Brasileiro Auction is delighted to offer 20 shares, each equal to six coverings by this superb stallion.

 

Complete information, including on-line video footage, DVD requests, reservations, bids and pre-registrations are now also available on-line via the Coudelaria Ilha Verde website:

 

http://www.cavalolusitano.com.br

 

Located in Araçoiaba da Serra, close to the city of Sorocaba, Coudelaria Ilha Verde hosted its first auction in 1998 and now attracts a capacity crowd of over 1,000 enthusiastic fans, including many foreign buyers and well-known Brazilian celebrities. It is now recognized as one of the world’s foremost opportunities to acquire Lusitanos that continually meet and exceed the essence of this outstanding breed. Partnering Ilha Verde’s proprietor Victor Oliva to bring the world this remarkable selection of Lusitanos are Manuel Tavares de Almeida Filho, Paulo Salles, Luiz Salgado, Tonico Pereira, José Carlos Macedo dos Santos and Ascendino Madureira Garcia. 

Star Trainers Headline Cowgirl U Barrel Racing Clinic

Camarillo and Gibbs-Munroe to Focus on Horsemanship in Barrel Racing

The National Cowgirl Museum's Cowgirl U will highlight two of its most famous honorees when world champion barrel racers Sharon Camarillo and Jimmie Gibbs-Munroe team up to bring participants a Barrel Racing/Horsemanship Clinic November 6-8 at the Southern Cattle Company in Marianna, Florida.

Camarillo and Gibbs-Munroe bring their unmatched experience as horsewomen and champion barrel racers to the Southern Cattle Company. This program, which is a change from the original location announced earlier this year, is designed to strengthen horsemanship at all levels, with drills and riding exercises that will reinforce correct and consistent use of the rider's hands, seat and legs.

John E. Downs and the Southern Cattle Company name have been associated internationally with reputable cattle for over 15 years. Now, the ranch is introducing a strong family of quarter horses focusing on beautiful, cowy, athletic horses with top-notch pedigrees to the world of working ranch and cutting horses in the heart of the Florida panhandle.

Enrollment in the clinic is limited to 20 riders with stalls available at a minimal fee and includes two day's of instruction. Riders must bring their own horse and no camping or hook ups are available.

For more information and pricing, go to www.cowgirlu.org or call 817.509.8967.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame honors and celebrates women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the American West, and fosters an appreciation of the ideals and spirit of self-reliance they inspire. 

Located at 1720 Gendy Street in Fort Worth's Cultural District, the museum includes interactive exhibit galleries, three theaters, a retail store and a grand rotunda housing the Hall of Fame. The museum is open seven days a week - 9:30a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11:45a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Adult admission is $8 and $7 for children ages 3 to 12 and seniors ages 60 and up. Please visit www.cowgirl.net or call 817/336-4475 or 800/476-FAME (3263) for more information.

Performance Enhancement Panels produce inner equilibrium

The World’s Best Reversible Saddle Pad now has an optional feature to enhance performance and comfort.

High performance equine sports place more stress on both horse and equipment. That can result in pressure points under the saddle, and greater soreness, particularly around the scapula. 

Creating proper saddle fit can be challenging. To address this problem, Cavallo Horse & Rider has developed its new Performance Enhancement Panels (PEP). These firm poly-fiber sheets are simply inserted alongside the protective memory foam inserts of Cavallo’s English and Western All-Purpose saddle pads. 

Even in very active rider movement or saddle stress situations, these new PEPs allow more complete utilization of the horse’s scapula. The gentle massaging action of Cavallo memory foam works together with the rider’s weight and the firmness of the PEPs to produce an inner equilibrium, resulting in a better saddle fit and more comfort for both horse and rider.

“Cavallo pads are the best pads in the world today. Watch your horse’s scapula smile.”

 ~Monty Roberts, The Man Who Listens to Horses

Available at your favorite tack shop and through equine catalogs. Visit http://www.cavallo-inc.com for more information. 

About Cavallo Horse & Rider Inc.

Cavallo Horse & Rider Inc. is home to the most comfortable hoof boots in the world. Here you will find the most economical alternative to metal shoes, as well as technologically advanced saddle pads, and much, much more! Cavallo is committed to developing and distributing innovative products of excellent quality that provide comfort, protection, support and value for money for both horse and rider. Please call us toll-free at 1-877-818-0037 or visit us online at http://www.cavallo-inc.com

PUT QUARTERFEST ON THIS WEEKEND’S TO-DO LIST

America’s Horse, April 28, 2009 – Hannah Montana’s horse, “Blue Jeans”; the two-hour smoke, lights, music and horses Extravaganza; mounted shooting with Outlaw Annie Bianco; horsemanship clinics; a trail ride through the beautiful Cedars of Lebanon State Park; and horsey activities for the kids are sure to be the highlights of the first-ever QuarterFest: A Celebration of the American Quarter Horse, this weekend – May 1-3 – in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. America’s Horse is the official publication of QuarterFest and will be covering the event with daily updates.

America’s Horse editor Holly Clanahan is stepping outside her traditional-publishing comfort zone with tweets from QuarterFest on twitter.com/americashorse.

Twitter is a “microblogging” service. It simply lets users say what they’re doing at the moment in 140 characters or less,” Holly writes in her blog, The Gallop Report (americashorsedaily.com/tweet-smarts/). “Kind of like a haiku. For some users, it’s pretty mundane. But for others, it’s a way to get real-time updates on a variety of situations – everything from earthquakes to political revolts. For AQHA, well, we hope there isn’t any sort of revolt at QuarterFest, but we do plan to offer plenty of real-time updates from the event – everything from where the best parking can be found, to quick tips from the clinicians.

“Cool? Yes, absolutely. But it’s making us all talk a little funny.

“When you post an update on Twitter, it’s called ‘tweeting.’ And those who tweet are called ‘twitterers.’ And to tweet from my Blackberry phone, I had to download an application called ‘twibble,’ which can also be used in a verb form. So I’m tweeting, I’m twibbling, I’m twying to remember to pronounce my R’s.”

Be sure to also check americashorsedaily.com for a slideshow from each day of QuarterFest and experience the event through Clanahan’s camera lens.

QuarterFest is a tribute to everyone’s favorite animal – the American Quarter Horse. So bring your horse along. We’ll have clinics and demonstrations all weekend long, with seven professional horsemen and -women: Curt and Tammy Pate, a husband and wife from Newell, South Dakota; Jeff Griffith of Gallatin Gateway, Montana; Bob Avila of Temecula, California; Julie Goodnight of Salida, Colorado; Christy Landwehr of Aurora, Colorado; and Bo Winslow of Estes Park, Colorado.

There will be a limited number of spots available for people to participate in clinics with their horses. However, there are unlimited opportunities to attend clinics without your horse. Visit www.aqha.com/quarterfest for the schedule and to enroll in the clinics and purchase your general admission, clinic and Extravaganza tickets. Avoid long lines at the gate and get your tickets online before you arrive!

The production company for “Hannah Montana: The Movie” has sent loads of Hannah Montana T-shirts, posters and other cool stuff, so besides getting your picture taken with Blue Jeans – be sure to bring your own camera – you’ll have a chance to get some of the cool movie merchandise, too.

In addition, the American Quarter Horse Association will also be offering several specials and giveaways including a WeatherBeeta cooler, AQHA Best Remuda coffee-table book or a Professional’s Choice saddle pad to those who purchase AQHA memberships as part of some crazy “blue-light specials”; a Tex Tan saddle for those who upgrade to three-year or life memberships; an MD Barns round-pen will be given away in a drawing from the names of those who do business at the AQHA booth; and a GPS and free riding hours will be given away in drawings related to the AQHA Horseback Riding Program. And the Dude Ranchers’ Association, an AQHA alliance partner, is giving away two dude ranch vacations – one each night of the Extravaganza. We’re even offering deals on subscriptions to AQHA’s official business publication, The American Quarter Horse Journal, which is the title sponsor of the QuarterFest Trail and Ranching Area.

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration where horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam, Breyer, La Cense Montana, Priefert Ranch Equipment and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

QUARTERFEST’S TRADE SHOW IS A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR EVERYTHING HORSEY AND WESTERN

America’s Horse, April 28, 2009 – If you walk away from QuarterFest without spending any money in the trade show, you didn’t shop hard enough.

The first-ever QuarterFest trade show, May 1-3 in the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, will feature more than 50 vendors selling tack and trailers, purses and wallets, belts and jewelry, equine grooming and medical supplies, Western art, Western jeans and shirts, boots, chinks, tooled-leather products, hats, grills, pottery, horseshoe art, T-shirts, and equestrian facilities and campgrounds. Salsa, cowboy candy and pickles round out the list. Don’t forget to stop by the Quarter Horse Outfitters booth in the trade show to purchase your official QuarterFest T-shirt and cap. The AQHA Junior Master Horseman (www.juniormasterhorseman.com) educational book series will also be for sale at the Breyer Kids Corral.

You’re bound to get hungry and thirsty while you’re watching clinics, demonstrations and shopping, so make sure you check out the food court on the west side of the Tennessee Miller Coliseum. Papa John’s pizza, Mexican food and good ol’ hotdogs, corndogs and funnel cakes are on the menu.

To avoid long lines, get your QuarterFest tickets online now. Bring your printed ticket to the entry gate, and we’ll let you right in. Get your tickets now at www.aqha.com/quarterfest. All major credit and debit cards accepted! 

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam, Breyer, La Cense Montana, Priefert Ranch Equipment and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

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.

Research Needed to Better Understand Navicular Disease On Behalf of the Equine Research Coordination Group

Navicular disease was first described 250 years ago, when it was called “coffin joint lameness” because the lameness came from inside the horse's hoof. Nearly a century later, the term “navicular joint disease” began to be used to describe the degenerative disease. Navicular affects the horse's navicular bone, the small bone in the back of the foot, as well as associated structures such as the coffin joint, the impar ligament, suspensory ligament of the navicular bone, the navicular bursa, and the deep flexor tendon.

 

First used to evaluate the navicular bone in the 1930s, radiographs provide important information about changes in the bone structure associated with the condition. In the 1970s, renewed interest in the investigation of navicular disease led many to believe it was actually a complex condition involving many tissues and not just the navicular bone. These conclusions led to the description of the lameness as navicular syndrome.

 

New technology and techniques have made it possible to visualize portions of soft tissue structures, but not until magnetic resonance imaging began to be used was the extent of these soft tissue injuries truly understood. As a result, a plethora of new information regarding injuries associated with navicular disease is now available, but the question that remains is what the new information means.

 

Navicular disease or navicular syndrome, which is more correctly termed palmar foot pain syndrome, accounts for one-third of all chronic forelimb lameness in horses. Why do these horses become lame? Some studies have shown that, at least for some of these animals, the interaction between the navicular bone, its bursa and deep flexor tendon creates a situation similar to osteoarthritis, except the degenerative process involves fibrocartilage on the back of the navicular bone and the adjacent flexor tendon.

 

Navicular disease is a degenerative disorder theoretically caused by excessive and sustained forces of compression at the distal one half of the bone. Abnormal forces from faulty conformation hypothetically cause biomechanical stresses on the navicular bone and cause remodeling changes. As long as the remodeling in response to these forces is slow, no problems occur. But when the biomechanical stresses exceed physiologic levels, degenerative disease in the fibrocartilage of the flexor surface causes changes in the underlying subchondral bone and bone marrow. Alterations in the bone lead to edema and subsequent venous hypertension and navicular bone-related pain.

 

Diagnosis of navicular disease is based on an overall evaluation of the hoof that includes: (1) response to diagnostic manipulative tests; (2) response of the lameness to diagnostic analgesia; (3) imaging of the foot; and (4) evaluation of hoof conformation. The diagnosis is made based on the clinical signs and may be corroborated by radiographic evaluation. However, radiographs alone do not diagnosose the disease.

 

The first steps developing a logical approach to the treatment of this hoof lameness are an accurate assessment of the pain and careful evaluation of hoof structure that may predispose it to the condition or cause the pain. Treatment then should be based on the type of and location of the disease. Shoeing should be the basis of all treatment, and any medicinal or surgical therapy should be as an adjunct to shoeing.

 

To prevent navicular disease, consistent care from a farrier is necessary to keep the hoof in good condition and to address issues of imbalance as they arise. Hoof care is also the area that needs the most research. At this point, clinical evidence of the effects of trimming and shoeing on soundness are largely empirical or the result of trial and error.

 

To fully understand navicular disease and injury to all the structures involved, additional research is needed to investigate the effects of trimming on the growth of hoof capsule; the effects of shoeing on the growth and physiology of the hoof capsule; and how limb and hoof conformation is related to the biomechanics of the foot and navicular bone. Studies to define how footing and type of performance affect navicular-associated structures are also needed.

 

By Tracy A. Turner, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS

Anoka Equine Veterinary Services, Elk River, MN

 

 

The veterinary community needs your assistance to increase funding for research on navicular disease and other equine diseases. Please contact the American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation (www.aaepfoundation.org), the American Quarter Horse Foundation (www.aqha.com/foundation), Grayson Jockey-Club Research Foundation (www.grayson-jockeyclub.org), Morris Animal Foundation (www.morrisanimalfoundation.org) or your favorite veterinary school or research institution to make a contribution towards equine research.

 

This is just one of the many efforts that the AAEP Foundation is coordinating on behalf of the industry through the Equine Research Coordination Group (ERCG), which is comprised of researchers and organizations that support equine research. Formally organized in 2006, the ERCG has a mission of advancing the health and welfare of horses by promoting the discovery and sharing of new knowledge, enhancing awareness of the need for targeted research, educating the public, expanding fundraising opportunities and facilitating cooperation among funding agencies.

 

The ERCG is a group comprised of researchers and organizations that support equine research. Participants in the ERCG include equine foundations and multiple university research representatives. Current participants include: AAEP Foundation, American Horse Council, AQHA Foundation, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Morris Animal Foundation, Havemeyer Foundation, United States Equestrian Federation Foundation and university researchers: Warwick Arden, BVSc, DVCS, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS (North Carolina State University); Rick Arthur, DVM; Noah Cohen, VMD, MPH, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM (Texas A & M University); Gregory Ferraro, DVM (University of California-Davis); Eleanor Green, DVM, DACVIM, DAVBP (Texas A & M University); Joan Hendricks, VMD, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM (University of Pennsylvania); C. Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, DSc, FRCVS, Dipl. ACVS (Colorado State University); James Moore, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS (University of Georgia); Rustin Moore, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS (The Ohio State University); Grant Rezabek, DVM, MPH (Oklahoma State University); Corinne Sweeney, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM (University of Pennsylvania); Mats Troedsson, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACT (University of Kentucky - M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center); and Nathaniel White II, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS (Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine).

 

For more information on the ERCG or to view other topics and white papers, visit http://www.aaep.org/equine_research_co_group.htm.

Taking Tricks to the Trail – on-line clinics

Suzanne De Laurentis, co-founder of Imagine A Horse announced today an all new on-line clinic concept with “Taking Tricks to the Trail” as seen in Trail Blazer Magazine. This clinic series can be viewed or even downloaded to share on YOUR schedule-anytime. Taking Tricks to the Trail, written by De Laurentis and partner Allen Pogue is an extremely popular series for Trail Blazer Magazine. The on-line clinics give an additional and exciting dimension to the theme of the articles. Susan Gibson, publisher of Trail Blazer Magazine and a seasoned endurance rider said that she always knew Trick Training would result in a more thoughtful and dependable trail horse. Taking Tricks to the Trail video clinics focus on developing the intelligence, adaptability and predictability of the Companion Horse as applied to trail riding or in other words “a thinking horse”.

ScreenCast.com hosts the on-line clinics, the video quality is excellent with a fast download and best of all you can access the clinics on your schedule. Donna Moore is the director and technical designer for Imagine A Horse. Donna is a graduate of the University of Texas with a BA degree in Fine Art and Graphic Design and has over 28 years experience in commercial art and graphic design, and most recently managed the design and production department world-wide for Dell Computer Corporation. Her lifelong experience with horses gives her a sharp eye for detail and design of the on-line clinics.

 

Allen Pogue and Suzanne De Laurentis of Imagine A Horse host the clinics and present the Taking Tricks to the Trail concept with clarity. Their Enlightened Trick Horse Training which is also called Equine Agility is especially appealing to folks looking for a fresh and innovative method to engage their horses’ minds.    

 

Taking Tricks to the Trail on-line clinics are available by subscription through the Imagine A Horse web site at www.imagineahorse.com  and previews are also available. At just $9 per month, the clinics are a real value.

 

For more information please contact Suzanne De Laurentis at suesmonet@aol.com 

Choice of Champions Provides Gift Basket Products for Horses Running In Kentucky Derby

Wellington, FL – Choice of Champions International is taking part in the world-famous Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, by helping to fill the gift baskets for the horses running in the 135th Run for the Roses. The Kentucky Derby, which takes place May 2 in Louisville, Kentucky, is the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and is considered “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”

“We were very excited when a representative from the Churchill Downs asked if we would supply Choice of Champion supplements for the gift baskets,” said Allyn Maix, President of Choice of Champions. “There are 20 horses entered in the Kentucky Derby and we sent them every product we had to go in the gift baskets for the 20 entries.”

Maix and her partner founded Choice of Champions to fill the need for specialized supplements designed to aid sport horses. Based in Wellington, Florida, the Choice of Champions owners have been able to see first hand the demands placed on top dressage, polo, racing, hunter, and jumper horses.

“It is a compliment to be asked to fill the gift baskets at the Kentucky Derby,” Maix said. “We already supply supplements to many race horse trainers, including some at the top of the sport. This is a wonderful opportunity for us because it gives us direct exposure to 20 of the top trainers in the race horse industry.”

Choice of Champions produces a full line of supplements designed to fit the needs of a variety of horses that compete in many different disciplines. The Super Joint Solution contains a powerful combination of ingredients that have been shown to reduce inflammation and stiffness. Ulser Shield contains Calcium Carbonate to help reduce the acidity of the stomach and other ingredients that can improve symptoms associated with equine ulcers. Lung Aid is made with anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories, and natural sources of vitamins to improve overall lung condition in horses. Easy Does It can used as pre-race product, according to Maix, to keep the nervous edge off a horse and keep its mind on competing.  True Sweat has been developed to stop anhydrosis and promote normal sweating for performance horses. 

“Choice of Champions products are a great value,” said Maix. “For example the suggested dose for a racehorse on the Super Joint Solution is a half of an ounce.  With that dosage, 8 horses will only use 1 gallon of Super Joint Solution in a month for $1.37 a day.  All of our products are high quality.  We want to make sure consumers are getting the benefits they want at a reasonable cost.”

Maix encourages horse owners, riders and trainers to try their products, and free samples are available by visiting the Choice of Champions website at www.choiceofchamps.com or calling 1-800-868-1077.

SPARC Trail Ride

Mark your calendars! Sunday May 3, 2009 is the SPARC Trail Ride in Stewart State Forest. Bring your horse and enjoy a great ride on marked trails on the 7,000- acre Stewart lands, that SPARC successfully saved as open space in November 2005.

Riders can choose between a long 3+ hour ride and a short, easier 1 1/2 hour ride, after registering and parking at the north Ridge Rd. parking area. Start time is 9 AM, and last riders must be out by 12 noon.  Your horse will enjoy fresh treat and there will be surprises for all.

The trail ride donation is your choice of $15, $20 or $30 dollars per rider, payable at the gate. Proof of Neg. Coggins & Rabies. All proceeds go to help SPARC, now watch dogging the land for your benefit.  Contact Debbie Schiraldi for more information at (845) 496-6754 or debbieschiraldi@hvc.rr.com

Thank you so far to the following businesses and clubs for their fantastic donations:

Loughran's Restaurant

Whinnies & Knickers

Heritage Feed & Supply

Debbie Schiraldi, Hudson Heritage Realty

Windy Hollow Hunt Club

Horse and Hound Stable

G & M Riding Club

NY Web Master

Congelosi Trailer Sales

AgFocus/Equine Line Subscription-Cornell Cooperative Ext.

Horse & Rider

Bob Jeffreys & Suzanne Sheppard

Dog Day Aftergroom

Ani-Mall Pet Center

Walking Horse Industry Insiders Expose Abuses

Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH) has announced the availability of audio recordings of interviews with owners, farriers, trainers, judges and exhibitors involved in soring of Tennessee Walking Horses.  Graphic, first hand details of these cruel practices were publicly revealed at the second Sound Horse Conference.  The interviews substantiate that soring practices are commonplace with Walking Horses despite the industry’s insistence that soring is a thing of the past.

 

Double blind interviewing procedures were established to provide complete anonymity and protect the identities of those being interviewed.  Additional protection was provided by recording and transcribing the interviews and having professional actors and actresses read the transcripts.  None of the interview sources were compensated.  Both audio recordings and transcripts of the interviews are available.

 

The Sound Horse Conference was held March 20 and 21 for veterinarians, researchers, the USDA, and numerous individuals concerned about the continued practice of soring of Tennessee Walking Horses.  Soring is the deliberate infliction of pain in order to create a flashy gait for the show ring. Although soring has been illegal under federal law for over thirty years, this abusive practice continues today and is fully depicted in the interviews heard at the Conference.

 

To listen to the interviews or read the transcripts, visit www.soundhorseconference.com, 2009 Proceedings, Current Soring Practices-Confidential Interviews.

 

FOSH is a national leader in the promotion of natural, sound gaited horses and in the fight against abuse and soring of Tennessee Walking Horses.  For more information about FOSH, or to become a member, please visit www.fosh.info or call 800-651-7993.

Team USA Wins Silver at 2009 Pan American Endurance Championships

By Joanie Morris and Vonita Bowers

Lexington, KY - Team USA put in a remarkable effort on the final phase at the 2009 Pan American Endurance Championships in Costa Azul, Uruguay to secure a Team Silver medal. They finished less than six minutes off the gold medal-winning pace of Argentina.

The American riders blazed through the final 15km phase: Cheryl van Deusen and on DA Al Capone (New Smyrna Beach, FL) and Stephen Rojek on Savvy (South Woodstock, VT) completed the final leg in just 37 minutes. Valerie Kanavy and LM Francesa Pharr (Fort Valley, VA) added to the effort with another strong final phase time and a sixth place Individual finish to secure a Team Silver medal.

The race was very close as the riders set off on the final phase, Team USA was just four minutes ahead of the Guatemalan Team and 25 minutes behind Argentina. The US riders made up considerable ground.  

“We needed the riders to pick up the pace to assure a medal and the riders responded by turning in a phase speed of just under 16 miles per hour,” said Chef d’ Equipe Becky Hart. “The combined experience of not only the riders, but the crews, Team Veterinarian, and Team Staff contributed greatly to the overall result. This win was a true team effort.”

Gabrielle Mann and CM Big Easy (Bolinas, CA) served in the key anchor position in their first international competition. They delivered on their position and provided a security score in case one of the other members was unable to complete the competition. Her completion meant that the US Team was assured of at least the bronze, and allowed for a more aggressive strategy.

“Three of the American horses had to travel a long distance, and arrived with only a short time to prepare before the event. The horses and athletes adapted well to the short prep schedule and performed extremely well on a course that was quite different than what is common in the US. The result was a good performance,” said Team Veterinarian Jim Bryant. “They should be congratulated for the effort.”

YOU DON’T NEED A HORSE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CAMPING CLINICS AT QUARTERFEST

America’s Horse, April 28, 2009 – Do you spend more time outdoors than indoors? If you’ve got an interest in camping, one of the coolest things you can do at QuarterFest is sit in on backcountryman Bo Winslow’s clinics. And the best thing is – you don’t need a horse to participate in these clinics.

Currently the fairgrounds and events manager for Estes Park, Colorado, which borders Rocky Mountain National Park, Bo has worked in the horse industry for more than 25 years. He has experience in packing and trail, colt training, riding instruction, breeding AQHA foundation bloodlines and show management. Bo has been a clinic instructor for the Certified Horsemanship Association, an American Quarter Horse Association alliance partner. Bo is also a past president of the organization. He is a life member of both CHA and AQHA.

Here are the topics he’ll be discussing at QuarterFest:

Preparing for the trip: cover the rules and regulations of the camping/packing area you are going into.

Horse selection: discuss the conformation you are looking for in your pack and riding animals; securing horses, learn how to tie a picket line that will secure several horses for the night, and many other ways to secure horses.

Packing: learn and practice using the double diamond hitch and the box hitch, two very basic hitches used by many packers in the industry.

Campsite selection: learn what to look for in a campsite, low-impact guidelines, fire building in tough conditions, setting up and taking down camp with the least amount of impact.

Dutch-oven cooking: learn to prepare biscuits and cobbler using a dutch oven.

Bo works with many different horse groups, musicians and artists to put on events throughout the year, everything from an award-winning PRCA rodeo to a hunter-jumper show to a Christmas parade. Bo’s family – his wife, Lauri, and his son and daughter – are the source of joy in his life. In his free time, Bo volunteers with the local fire department and is a deacon at his church. Bo also enjoys winter projects in his wood shop as the snow falls outside.   

To avoid long lines, get your QuarterFest tickets online now. Bring your printed ticket to the entry gate, and we’ll let you right in. Get your tickets now at www.aqha.com/quarterfest. All major credit and debit cards accepted.

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration of the American Quarter Horse where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam, La Cense Montana, Priefert Ranch Equipment and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

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.

Ride out the Recession in Wintec’s New, Affordable Western Saddles

The economy is taking its toll on everyone.

 

Horse owners can cut back on lessons and shows, but can’t cut back on the lifestyle. To save money and continue spending time in the saddle, many Western and English horse owners are trail riding now more than ever. For riders who are looking for a quality alternative to leather saddles, Wintec has two new Western saddles.

The new Wintec Easy Ride Saddle and Wintec Barrel Saddle are affordable, easy-care and lightweight synthetic saddles for today’s discerning, cost-conscious riders. Both feature a comfortable and washable Equi-Suede seat; rugged, stainless steel hardware and are crafted in tough Duraleather, which can be used in the rain, resists stains, and can be cleaned with just a little soap and water.

 The Wintec Easy Ride Saddle also features handsome, stamped conchos and a cutaway skirt for a comfortable, easy ride. This saddle is available in 14”, 15” 16”, 17” in black or brown and is distributed by Partrade.

- Tree: the black saddle has Semi Quarter Horse Bars/the brown saddle has Full Quarter Horse bars

- Rigging position 7/8”

- Fenders: 14” saddle: 16.5” x 7.5” / 15” thru 17” saddles: 19.5” x 7.5”

- 4” Cantle height

- Horn: 3” neck, 2” top

- Gullet Size: 6.75” Wide by 7.75” High

- Swell width: 12”

- Skirt size: 25” long by 12” deep

- Stirrups: 2.5”

- Weight: approximately 21 lbs

- MSRP: $334.99

The Wintec Barrel Saddle features a rounded skirt and lighter design for an easier, faster ride. This saddle is available in brown in sizes 14.5”, 15 .5” and 16.5” and is distributed by Partrade. 

- Tree: Semi Quarter Horse Bars

- Rigging position 7/8”

- Fenders: 18” by 7.5”

- 5” Cantle height

- Horn: 3” neck, 2” top

- Gullet Size: 6.5” wide by 7.25” high

- Swell width: 12”

- Skirt size: 24” long by 12” deep

- Stirrups: 2”

- Weight: approximately 22 lbs.

- MSRP: $349.99

 

About Partrade

Since our start in 1955, Partrade Trading Company has become a premier manufacturer and international retailer for world-class Western and English riding supplies. Partrade’s success is founded on an unrivaled dedication to our customers, supreme selection, and constant innovations in our product lines. As a manufacturer, we can promise you the highest quality; as a retailer, we can promise you exceptional value and superior service. Contact us at 800.223.2101 or visit Partrade.net.

NARHA offers scholarships to the 2009 NARHA National Conference and Annual Meeting

Denver—NARHA announced today that it has opened the application process for scholarships to the 2009 NARHA National Conference and Annual Meeting, November 18-21 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Targeted at the ever-growing field of equine assisted activities and therapies (EAAT), the 2009 NARHA National Conference and Annual Meeting features an impressive array of educational sessions presented by industry experts. It culminates with the annual awards banquet which is designed to celebrate the innovation, diligence and sometimes miraculous accomplishments in the EAAT industry. The Horse Expo and Friday keynote luncheon are perennial highlights.

The Scholarship application deadline is August 3, and applications can be downloaded from the conference page at www.narha.org. This year NARHA will offer 13 full conference registration fee waivers and 13 partial conference registration waivers to members selected from all 11 NARHA regions in the United States and Canada, as well as from several countries across the Atlantic or Pacific.  Scholarships are a wonderful way to get acquainted with the work and people of the EAAT field, to ease a member’s first NARHA National Conference, to make the conference a highlight for a college or university student, to make a volunteer feel truly special, to reduce the cost of an American conference for a person from overseas.  

NEW ZEALAND RACE HORSES WIN BIG USING ALL NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS - PROVING THAT DRUG-FREE WINNING IS POSSIBLE

Created for people to maintain healthy joints and active lifestyles, Agel’s FLX is taken by Record Breaking Horse and Hundreds of Winning New Zealand Racers

North Shore, New Zealand  April, 2009 -- As the 2009 United States Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing kicks off with the Kentucky Derby on May 2 eyes are on reform measures in the North American horse racing industry.  Just after last year’s Triple Crown races, the United States Congressional Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection was asked by winning horse owners to support major reforms in the thoroughbred horse racing industry including a ban on steroids and all non-therapeutic drugs on race horses.  New Zealand horse owners are finding that natural supplements found in Agel’s FLX are proving to be the winning, even record breaking formula. 

 

Changeover, a horse using Agel’s FLX, smashed the New Zealand Trotting Cup World Record in September 2008.  He led throughout to win the Spring Cup at Auckland beating Awesome Armbro, Gotta Go Cullen and Monkey King in a New Zealand Record time of 2:42.7 (mile rate 1:59) over the 2200 metres from a standing start.  Awesome Armbro, in addition to 300 more winning horses in New Zealand, also uses FLX supplements.  Over $4 million (nz) in prize money has gone to FLX horses. 

Agel created FLX to support healthy joints and maintain active lifestyles.  As people are finding great results from its usage, Horse owners in New Zealand made the jump and saw results quickly.  The four supplements found in FLX are Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), and  Celadrin™.  Chondroitin Sulfate is known to increase cartilage elasticity.  Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is believed to assist in cartilage formation and repair and in the lubrication of the joints. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a biologically available form of sulfur shown to be effective at supporting joint health.  And Celadrin™ is a proprietary combination of cetylated fatty acids that has been shown to promote joint health and reduce minor or temporary pain due to the normal activities of an active life.  Although there are many supplements that contain one or even two of these supplements, Agel’s FLX contains all four of these ingredients derived from natural sources.  In addition, all Agel supplements are delivered in gel packs, making the delivery and ingestion easy and convenient. 

Global Headquarters for Agel Enterprises are in Lehi, Utah in the western states of the United States.  Corporate offices are located throughout the United States as well as Australia, Colombia, Europe, India, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico,  Nigeria, The Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, and Ukraine.  Agel Enterprises strives to empower individuals throughout the world to achieve new levels of health, financial success, and personal freedom.  Find out more at www.agel.com.

Morgan Gold Cup Regional Horse Show Announces Pink Ribbon Class

By Stacey Meier

Content provided by the Morgan Gold Cup and Joyce Ackerman Burroughs

The 49th edition of the Morgan Gold Cup Regional Horse Show is less than two months away!  Plans are heating up for a great week including the Friday night United Professional Horsemen’s Association (UPHA) Pink Ribbon events. 

In 2007, UPHA launched the Pink Ribbon campaign in an effort to “raise much-needed funds for breast cancer research, awareness, and treatment.”  To date more then thirty horse shows across the country have participated and over $100,000 has already been raised, the goal for 2009 is set for another $100,000. 

Gold Cup is honored to be a part of this ground-breaking program and has designated the English Pleasure Ladies Championship as the UPHA Pink Ribbon Class.  This class will kick off the Friday evening session while a progressive isle party will finish off the night in style. Last year’s class was won by Elizabeth Burick and Bad Company and raised $1,000 for the important cause of breast cancer research.

Steve Davis, Mike Carpenter and Susan Kolstad are slated to judge the June 16-20, 2009 event that will be held at the Champion’s Center in Springfield, Ohio.

For more information on this or other Morgan Gold Cup Regional Horse Show events, please visit www.morgangoldcuphorseshow.com.

Georgina Bloomberg Maps Out Extensive European Tour

Top notch European competition will enhance preparation for World Equestrian Games bid in 2010

New York, NY - - April 28, 2009 - - With her eye on the prize of a coveted slot at the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky, Georgina Bloomberg of New York City has mapped out a challenging nine stop tour of some of Europe's finest equestrian events for the 2009 summer show season. 

 

Bloomberg, one of the nation's most competitive show jumping riders, is on the comeback trail following a disappointing season in 2008. Her return to glory began successfully this winter when she and her new mount, the 11-year-old French mare Street of Diamonds, triumphed over eighty-six of the world's best show jumpers to win the $30,000 Braman Motorcars WEF Challenge Cup at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Bloomberg defeated the second largest starting field in the twenty year history of that event. 

 

Street of Diamonds will be one of eight horses that will travel to Europe beginning on May 21 in Germany. Speaking of her new mare, Bloomberg said, "I haven't had a horse that's been my type of horse in quite a while. I've had horses that could go clear, but I haven't had one that can really run in the jump-off till Street of Diamonds," she said. "I'm very optimistic about her chances as we continue to get to know each other better. I've worked really hard for the last two years and I feel like it's going to pay off, especially with this horse."

 

Joining Street of Diamonds on the European tour this will be Curius, Star Apple, Metropolitan, Midtown du Tillard, Radio City, Empire State and Fiedi 3.

 

The competition plan for this summer is an aggressive one, and includes stops at some of the toughest equestrian events in Europe. 

 

Bloomberg will begin in Munich, Germany, on May 21-24, and then move on to other German competitions in Wiesbaden (May 28-31), Spangenberg (June 4-7), Balve (June 11-14), and finally to Norten Hardenberg (June 18-21). 

 

So what are the rewards for going head to head with the best riders of Europe? 

 

"There are no immediate advantages with the competition being so tough over there," Bloomberg said. "But I think what I learn there, and the experience I gain, really pays off when I get back to the United States in the fall. We don't go over there to escape competition, we go there to confront it, and become all the better for it."

 

"The first five shows in Germany are all shows that I have done before. I like them because they are well organized, the competition is high, and they are obviously convenient to where we are based near Frankfurt," Bloomberg detailed. 

Following the tough tour of Germany, Bloomberg takes a two week break before returning for four more shows in Portugal, Spain and Switzerland.  She will compete at Estoril, Portugal (July 9-12), La Coruna, Spain (July 16-19), Ascona, Switzerland (July 23-26) and wrap up the campaign in Gijon, Spain (July 30- Aug 2). 

 

While the first part of the tour will be familiar, that won't be the case when Bloomberg returns to action in Portugal in July. "On the final leg, Ascona is the only show at which I've competed. I wanted to try a few new events. The new ones are all beautiful locations, in addition to being first class competitions," she said. 

 

Leaving the summer shows in the United States behind has become fairly routine for Bloomberg and doing so has paid off with a number of top-notch international victories over the past few years. In 2007, she was a member of the winning United States show jumping teams in Hamina, Finland and in Falsterbo, Sweden. She was also 4th in the Queen's Cup at Hickstead, and the highest placed American in the Dublin Grand Prix. In 2005, Bloomberg was a key member of the winning United States Samsung Super League team in La Baule, France. 

 

While Bloomberg has competed for the United States on eight Nations Cup teams, she didn't receive the call for this year's teams. But, as she points out, she'll be nearby and will be ready to roll into action if called upon. "I would love to be a part of a team. Being on a team and competing for my country is my favorite thing in the world," she smiled. "This year, I have been working my way back up the computer list, but wasn't high enough to be named."

 

A computer ranking system is used to select the riders that represent the United States on various tours of Europe and in Canada and South America. "All of that being said," Bloomberg added, "if at any time they need me and ask me to compete, I will be there!"

 

Bloomberg continues to build on a very promising winter tour in Florida that produced a number of victories with her younger horses; those in addition to that primetime win by Street of Diamonds. "I was happy with the winter season. I had a lot of success with my younger horses, and I managed to move some of them up a level, which was a stated goal of mine. My plan was to gain some confidence on them over the bigger jumps. I now have three horses that I think will be doing the Grand Prix classes by next year," she explained. "And I have another younger horse that I have high hopes for in the future too."

 

"It's been a lot of fun," Bloomberg said of her season so far. "Of course it's always more fun when your horses are going well, but this year has been so much different. I've really dedicated myself and worked really hard. The horses have been going really well, and we've been feeding off each others' energy. That's always a great feeling," she said.

 

Bloomberg promotes the exciting sport of show jumping sponsored by Audi, Ariat, Heritage Gloves, and County Saddles.  She is on the board of the Equestrian AID Foundation, a member of the USEF Developing Riders Committee, the Equine Drugs and Medications Committee and is part of the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program. Bloomberg also writes a monthly column for Equestrian Lifestyle Magazine. 

 

She started a unique and resourceful charity in 2006 named "The Rider's Closet," a program that encourages competing riders to donate used riding clothes that are then distributed to riders in need and to intercollegiate riding programs. 

 

Bloomberg's Gotham North recently signed on for the third year as the Presenting Sponsor for the North American Junior Young Riders Championship. 

 

A student of New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, Bloomberg is studying Sports Business and Marketing, and Studio Arts.

Michigan’s Highland Equestrian Conservancy Presented with $10,000 Breyer-ELCR Grant Breyer Continues Sponsorship into 2009

(Pequannock, NJ – April 27, 2009) – Michigan’s Highland Equestrian Conservancy was presented with a check for $10,000 for their winning proposal to preserve land for equestrian use in Highland, Michigan. The check from Breyer Animal Creations and the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource was presented at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event on Sunday, April 26, 2009, by Stephanie Macejko, Vice President of Marketing at Breyer, Jane Beshear, First Lady of the State of Kentucky and a member of the ELCR-Breyer Grant Committee, and from the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource, Libbie Johnson, Chair of the ELCR-Breyer Grant Committee and Georgiana Hubbard McCabe, President. Sharon Greene accepted on behalf of Highland Equestrian Conservancy. 

Noted Sharon Greene, “Every time we turn our backs, we lose land to development.” Her group, based in southeastern Michigan, will use the $10,000 grant to purchase land that connects a road in neighboring Rose Township to Highland Oaks Park, a popular park for local trail riders, uniting two tracts of land, both zoned for equestrian use. This purchase will help preserve the area’s equestrian way of life, that is, like so many, struggling with encroaching development.

Highland Conservancy Awarded Breyer Grant at Rolex 

“We will continue this program into 2009 and have created two new models from which a portion of the sales will help fund another $10,000 grant to help preserve land for equestrian use.” said Stephanie Macejko, Breyer’s Vice President of Marketing & Product Development, and a frequent trail rider. “If we don’t act, the land we ride on, drive through, pasture and raise our horses on will be gone.”  

The ELCR is the only national organization dedicated to saving land for horse-related activities. The organization’s goals are to get horsemen to understand the magnitude of the land loss issue and to guide them in taking grassroots action to preserve open space. “It’s not enough to be aware,” agrees Deb Balliet, ELCR CEO. “You have to take action and be advocates in understanding and conveying appreciation of the value of horses.” 

The Highland Equestrian Conservancy, the first of its kind in Michigan, started as a small group of area residents with a mission to conserve and protect natural resources and the equestrian heritage of Highland Township.  Merle Richmond, Coordinator of the Oakland Equestrian Coalition, Paula Weaver from Highland Trail Riders, Sharon Greene, a 4H, US Pony Club and Equestrian Team mom, (all Michigan Horse Council members), and Dr. Fay Hansen of Oakland University and the Oakland Land Conservancy, spearheaded an effort to work with horse facilities, trail clubs, equestrian groups (4H, Pony Club, Equestrian Teams), Highland Business Association and the township Downtown Development Authority.  The “Highland Model” was established to promote open space, interconnecting greenways and wildlife corridors.

Plans are underway for hitching posts and stabling for equestrians to ride into the horse-friendly town. The Conservancy has already established two greenways with riding trails around local housing developments. The HEC is working on two more to create a network. The “Highland Model” is now recognized as a strategy for preserving the rural character of developing townships. Information on the Highland Conservancy can be found at www.highlandequestrians.org. 

Applying For Funds

To support the program, Breyer has created two new model horses for 2009 in ELCR/Breyer branded boxes that also contain an application to apply for funding. The ELCR Benefit models will be available from January-December 2009 at specialty toy stores, tack shops, and agricultural retailers nationwide in specially marked displays. Details about applying for funding will also be available online at www.breyerhorses.com or www.elcr.org.

 

About Breyer Animal Creations®

Breyer Animal Creations®, a division of Reeves International, Inc., is the world’s best-selling brand of equine-themed toys and collectibles. Breyer designs, manufactures and markets individually hand-decorated model horses of enduring quality for play and collecting. From Hollywood heroes like Roy Roger’s Trigger to racing legends Seabiscuit and Barbaro, Breyer brings the world of horses to life! Visit www.BreyerHorses.com for the latest news and information.

 

About Equestrian Land Conservation Resource (ELCR)

Equestrian Land Conservation Resource, based at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. is the only national organization that advances the conservation of land for horse related activities. Equestrian Land Conservation Resource is a resource for horse people, towns, land trusts, and elected officials nationwide – a clearinghouse of information on such topics as getting organized, placing conservation restrictions on farms and securing trail easements.. It is a network that puts people in touch with those of similar need or experience, partnering with environmental and other interest groups, and other information to secure land for horse activities. In addition, ELCR promotes the vital connection between horse landowners and land conservation in general. For more information, visit www.elcr.org or call 859-455-8383.

Classification Opportunity at Lamplight Equestrian Center CPEDI3* for USEF ParaEquestrian Athletes

By Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to offer a Classification for all riders with disabilities at the upcoming CPEDI3* at Lamplight Equestrian Center in May 14-17, 2009.

The FEI Classification System identifies the functional abilities of riders, and determines which Grade they will compete in at ParaEquestrian competition. ParaEquestrian Dressage competition is made up of five Grades, and riders compete against other athletes of their own Grade, and in turn similar function. 

The USEF has adopted the FEI system for use in the United States. Joann Benjamin, USA (‘O’ Classifier) and Brigette ‘Gabriele’ Walter, Brazil (‘I’ Classifier), will be available to do the Classifications at Lamplight prior to the start of the competition. Please note that all riders at the CPEDI3* are required to have classifications completed prior to the start of the competition. 

Riders with disabilities interested in ParaEquestrian but not participating in the show will be able to get Classification as the schedule permits. 

USEF Now Accepting Applications for 2010 Qualifying Competitions for Dressage High Performance Programs

From the USEF Dressage Department

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.® (USEF) invites licensed dressage competitions to apply to become an official 2010 “qualifying competition” for the USEF Dressage High Performance Programs.

The USEF Dressage High Performance programs include the following:

- USEF National Championships for Grand Prix and Intermediaire I Divisions

- USEF Qualifying Events (CDI/Grand Prix only) for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian          

Games Selection Trials

Competitions licensed for dates from July 1, 2009 – July 15, 2010 will be considered at this time. CDI competitions will be automatically approved for qualification. Therefore, if your competition is a CDI 3*/5* or CDI–W, it will automatically be approved for both the Grand Prix & Intermediaire divisions. If your competition is a CDI 1*, it will automatically be approved for the Intermediaire division. However, please note that a completed application must be received by USEF prior to the May 25, 2009 deadline. A completed application for each licensed competition must be submitted and received by May 25, 2009. Applications received after this deadline will NOT be considered.

In an exciting development for this year and to streamline the collection of applications, a new on-line application is available via the USEF website at this link: http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/breedsDisciplines/discipline/allDressage/HPQualCompetition.aspx This on-line form allows for easy electronic completion and submission of competition applications.

Equine Assisted Team Building Workshop

Equine assisted team building and leadership development is a powerful experience that unlocks personal strengths and develops leadership, team, and communication skills while increasing awareness and stimulating creativity.

Do you have a business where, because of the economy, you may have to reorganize?  Do you want to move forward and build up your team?

Here is a chance for an extraordinary executive team development and leadership workshop. Teams will learn how to be more cohesive and work together efficiently.  Team members will learn how to lead their organization to success.

Join me in a free demonstration for two hours of insight, information and fun to see how a little “horse play” can work for you and your company.  Experience for yourself how working with horses can accelerate learning in a team development and leadership workshop.

Horses come with their own personality, behaviors and attitudes.  Horse’s acute awareness of their environment allows humans interacting with them the ability to learn how they affect others.

You are invited to attend our introductory workshop on Friday May 29 from 9:30 to 12:30 or Saturday June 11th 9:30 to 12:30.

We are located off Hwy 2 between Snohomish and Monroe. For your convenience, phone 206-948-4026 or email Stacy@SL-Lifecoach.com for more information and to register.

Topics Include...

·        Leadership Development

·        Team Building

·        Communication

·        Creativity

·        Deciphering Body Language and  Non-Verbal Cues

·         Team Member Roles and  Responsibilities

Workshop Purpose

The Equine Facilitated Learning workshop provides a dynamic process of team building, developing leadership, and fine tuning self-awareness skills through horse-human interactions.

The ability of managers and leaders to effectively embody these skills impacts the organization’s bottom line. Successful team building, interpersonal communication and conflict resolution are crucial in today’s marketplace.

While interacting with horses, individuals are able to identify and focus on behavior patterns that will help them reach their full potential in business settings.

The experiential learning of the workshops is powerful because it is kinesthetic learning. The learning experiences with the horses are immediately applicable to one’s professional and personal relationships.

While engaging with horses, individuals gain tools for assertiveness, inspiring others to greatness, creating respectful relationships and business team building.    A proficiency in non-verbal communication skills is developed.

What To Expect

All learning immediately applicable to real-life situations

This material is used more consistently over time than any other kind leadership training

Wisdom of the horses that adds unprecedented staying power

Time in nature to renew your spirit

(This unique team building experience is located in Snohomish WA  - No horse experience is necessary, there is no riding, all exercise are done on the ground.)

Equine Motorcoach Goes to the Kentucky Derby

(Louisville, Ky.) – April 27, 2009 - Every year, Louisville comes alive around Derby time. This year, Louisville not only serves as the site for the running of the 135th Kentucky Derby, it is also home base for Equine Motorcoach™ at Tom Stinnett RV. Equine Motorcoach™ will make its the first appearance at Churchill Downs during Derby week.

The only U.S. version of an all-in-one luxury RV and horse transport vehicle, Equine Motorcoach™ is the official horse transport vehicle for United States Equestrian Federation, which is based in Lexington, Kentucky. 

The first-ever motorized RV and all-in-one horse transport arrived at its home in the United States in April 2008. Equine Motorcoach™ caters to very active horse show participants while supporting equestrian efforts nationally and internationally. It has been on display at most of the major equestrian events in the United States since its arrival.

“We are going to be on display across from Gate 5 on the backside of Churchill Downs” said Bob Wiegand, general manager for Equine Motorcoach™. “This is a good opportunity for owners and trainers to see this unique type of horse transport. We are excited to be with some of the best horsemen and horsewomen in thoroughbred horse racing.”

For more information about the 135th Kentucky Derby go to: www.churchilldowns.com.

Visit the website to find Equine Motorcoach™ at Churchill Downs. For more information or to schedule a tour of the Equine Motorcoach™ contact Bob Wiegand at (502) 664-7108 or bwiegand@equinemotorcoach.com.

AQHA PUTS CONSERVATION FRONT AND CENTER AT QUARTERFEST

America’s Horse, April 27, 2009 – Kermit the Frog used to say, “It’s not easy being green.” The American Quarter Horse Association has found it’s just the opposite if you’re a horse owner.

So, what is being green?

It means living easy on the Earth, helping rather than harming our environment to keep things going for future generations. For horse people, though, there’s an added element. We’re also striving to be good stewards of our animals and the land they live on and prosper in.

We’re putting these principles front and center at QuarterFest: A Celebration of the American Quarter Horse, May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

If you’re “green,” then the QuarterFest conservation area, which is sponsored by Tractor Supply Co., is for you: help build a bridge, learn about trail and campground design and the National Park Service’s Tread Lightly program, and gather information on how to make your home and barn more environmentally friendly.

You can also learn more about AQHA’s STEP program (Stewards for Trails, Education and Partnerships www.aqha.com/recreation/step/index.html). Information will be available about the Association’s new Greener Pastures Program, which allows AQHA members to track American Quarter Horses they have bred or previously owned and, if those horses ever become unwanted by their current owner, members can provide a home or assist in finding one for that horse.

Other items of interest in the QuarterFest conservation area include clinics on horse camping, negotiating trail obstacles, emergency first-aid and GPS geocaching. Plus, there will be a guided trail ride through the nearby Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Go to www.aqha.com/quarterfest to purchase your tickets.

QuarterFest conservation topics and speakers include:

Tread Lightly!: Mary Van Buren is the education and training manager for Tread Lightly!, a national organization whose mission is to proactively protect recreation access and opportunities through ethics, education and stewardship initiatives.

Trail and Campground Design: Jan Hancock, who is an equestrian and author in private practice in Phoenix. She specializes in the design of equestrian trails, trailheads and campgrounds, serving as a consultant for land managers/owners and architectural and engineering firms. Jan is the author of “Horse Trails in Arizona” and “Equestrian Design Guidebook for Trails, Trailheads and Campgrounds,” a publication written for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration in Washington, D.C. She credits her American Quarter Horse gelding for always making the work of writing books about horses incredibly fun.

Equestrian Land Conservation Resource: Deb Balliet is the CEO of ELCR. Leading ELCR brings together two of Balliet’s passions: horses and open space. A recreational rider, Balliet is a member of AQHA, Fort Harrod Back Country Horsemen and the Eastern Mountain Ranch Horse Association. Balliet's horse, registered as GMG Devilmademedoit and affectionately known as "Taz," is an appendix American Quarter Horse.

Safety issues in Trail Maintenance: Ryan Spates, a mountain biker and hiker for more than 19 years, has ridden trails all over the United States and the world. Originally from the technology industry, Spates decided to pursue his hobby as a career many years ago. He was initially trained by some of the early Subaru/IMBA Trail Care Crews and spent many years as a volunteer trail steward in the Houston area. He has worked as a professional trail builder since 2003, working with the non-profit Texas Bicycle Coalition and currently is a co-owner of S&S Trail Services.

Susan Stormer has been a mountain biker and hiker for over 14 years, and an avid equestrian for over 27 years. She is a doctor of clinical psychology who maintains her licensure to provide assessment and counseling services when she is not working with Spates building trails. Stormer began her volunteer trail work activities in west-central Florida in the mid-1990s. Stormer has been a professional trail builder since 2003, when she partnered with Sp

ates to lead the BikeTexas Trail Doctors program.

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam, Breyer, La Cense Montana, Priefert Ranch Equipment and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

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.

WIN YOUR SUMMER VACATION AT THE QUARTERFEST EXTRAVAGANZA!

America’s Horse, April 27, 2009 – Got any summer vacation plans? You might if you attend the QuarterFest Extravaganza May 1 and 2 and win a trip to a Dude Ranchers’ of America dude ranch in Arizona or Colorado.

The Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, and Tarryall River Ranch in Lake George, Colorado, are just itchin’ to host the winners from the QuarterFest Extravaganza, www.aqha.com/quarterfest/allstar_extravaganza.html.

Nestled among the majestic natural beauty of the Rincon Mountains between Saguaro National Park and the Coronado National Forest, the Tanque Verde dude ranch, in business since 1868, is set on 60,000 acres of unspoiled southwest landscape surrounding plush accommodations, unparalleled amenities and a diverse menu of daily rides and activities. Guests are invited to take part in a variety of horseback adventures, hit the trails on a mountain bike, or hike, fish, swim and just play at the Tanque Verde.

The winners of the Colorado dude ranch vacation will be welcomed to the Tarryall River Ranch by the Tesch family. At the Tarryall, you can fish, hike or spend the entire time horseback. You’ll appreciate the wranglers and the thorough instruction provided. Beginners will be made to feel comfortable on the most gentle of horses, while intermediate and advanced riders will be matched with a horse that will perfectly compliment their abilities. With the choice of half-day or all-day rides, you’ll also be able to chose the ride you want: touring beautiful spots, instructional rides to sharpen your skills, leisurely rides or more advanced rides in groups or with your family. An overnight pack trip is available, too. There is also opportunity to work in the arena, team-penning or practicing for the ranch rodeo.

The vacations, which must be used during the 2009 season, are both four-night packages for two people and are based upon availability. Airfare is not included, and some restrictions may apply. Again, one dude ranch vacation will be given away each night – May 1 and 2 – at the QuarterFest Extravaganza. No purchase necessary. Must be 18 to win. Complete contest rules available at www.aqha.com/quarterfest/media/extravaganza_DR_Rules.pdf.

Roll together every equine exhibition you’ve ever experienced and you’ll feel the same exhilaration when you watch the QuarterFest Extravaganza, the evenings of May 1 and 2 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. AQHA is pulling out all of the stops to tell the story of the American Quarter Horse, and you’ll have to hold onto your seat because we’re going to rock your American Quarter Horse world!

You become part of the story of AQHA as Grandpa tells the tale of the American Quarter Horse to his granddaughter, Sarah, as the Extravaganza opens.

An Old West cattle drive turns into an all-out horse-on-cow brawl as nationally recognized working cow horse trainer Bob Avila and his horse persuade a cow that she’s better off with the herd than she is forging ahead on her own. And that’s not all. The Tennessee Miller Coliseum will be a colorful mixture of chariot races; a thundering six-horse stagecoach; laughter with equine extremist Tommie Turvey; stunning Mexican charro performances with Jerry and Staci Diaz; a special appearance by Keepin Charge, aka “Tuff,” the American Quarter Horse superstar from the award-winning motion picture “Appaloosa”; a tribute to the women of our industry by freestyle reining champion Heather Johnson; and a salute to our armed forces with the Sons of Tennessee and Miss Rodeo America you will not forget.

This two-hour riveting production is designed to reinforce your bond with the world’s favorite horse – the American Quarter Horse.

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration of the American Quarter Horse Association’s 68th anniversary where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

Everyone is welcome – come for the fun and bring the family. Learn more about all the QuarterFest activities by visiting www.aqha.com/quarterfest. Hurry, tickets are going fast!

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.

Gale Salter Donates to “I Love Horses” Summer Day Camp

Gale Salter of Summerfield, FL and Canada fell in love with the Florida Carriage Museum and Resort and admits to having special admiration for “Eli” and “Gordon”, Friesian horses who take care of student drivers as they learn how to negotiate the trails and obstacles at the Resort.  “If I could have learned carriage driving as a child, it would have changed my life.  I would have been much more confident and self-assured.”  Gale hopes her donation will offer today’s children an opportunity she never had. 

Florida Carriage Museum’s Summer Camp’s registration is open for children ages 6 to 14 who love horses and want to experience camp activities in the Resort’s pristine setting surrounded with certified carriage drivers.  From 9 AM to 3 PM attendees will be learning horse care with hands-on experiences.  They will also get to paint on a horse – a real one.  Pick up your registration form at the Florida Carriage Museum at 3000 Marion County Rd. or contact Lindsay Clark at 352-205-3896 or lindsay.clark@fcmr.org. 

Those interested in joining Gale and donating to the Summer Camp Program can send their donation to the Equine Heritage Institute, Inc., 3000 Marion County Rd., Weirsdale, FL 32195 or go to www.fcmr.org.

Intercollegiate Dressage Association Announces Results of the 2009 National Championship

By Stacey Meier

Content provided by the Intercollegiate Dressage Association

The 2009 Intercollegiate Dressage Association’s National Championship was one of many surprises. Hosts University of Findlay masterfully created a championship that was certainly worthy of the title and occasion. Kicking off events on Friday afternoon, Findlay’s 32-acre James L. Child Jr. Equestrian Complex became an Hawaiian paradise that quickly became over run with golf cart decorating and driving competitions designed to really build team spirit and provide a great deal of fun for student riders. Riders from University of New Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, University of Massachusetts, Delaware Valley, Lake Erie, Albion, Findlay, Otterbein, Virginia Intermont, North Carolina State, University of Florida, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Washington State, St. Andrews Presbyterian, Cazenovia, Central Florida, University of Kentucky, Averett, Centenary, Johnson & Wales, University of Connecticut and Florida State came to participate in the championship.

 

Things calmed down quite a bit that evening with an information-packed presentation by Betsy Steiner. Steiner, a USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold Medalist and American World Championship team member, pulled on a 40-year career as competitor, trainer, judge, instructor and author to give the student riders and their coaches useful techniques that are part of a sport-specific Pilates-based exercise and body awareness program for the equestrian, EQUILATES™, which Steiner created.

 

On Saturday, the reason for the event got underway with teams of four competing in First Level, Upper Training, Lower Training and Introductory. University of New Hampshire‘s started off slowly with a Kim Guyer placing fourth in First Level. Upper Training saw UNH take a step forward with Kat Williams Barnard earning a combined average score of 66 percent. Lower Training ended with UNH’s Casey Hoatson’s first place score of 71.087 percent and the blue ribbon Bridget Shea’s third place in Intro gave the UNH team a combined score of 42 points and their first IDA National Championship. Three-time IDA national champions, Virginia Intermont finished in Reserve after a tie breaker with Delaware Valley. 

 

In addition to the team awards, the IDA team sportsmanship award was presented to University of Findlay, Teresa McDonald of Virginia Tech was named IDA coach of the year and Virginia Intermont coach and IDA vice president Lisa Mosmueller-Terry was recognized for her contributions to the creation and development of the IDA with an induction into the IDA Hall of Fame. The new Trip Harting Memorial Trophy was presented to First Level winner Greg Schmid. The award was created to honor Harting, a talented rider, instructor and judge, who was an ardent supporter of the IDA and of young people participating in dressage. 

 

The final day of the competition focused on riders competing as individuals with Otterbien’s Greg Schmid again taking top honors in First level, and Elizabeth Mirson of Virginia Intermont in reserve. Upper Training was won by Jessica Forend and reserve went to Ashley Parsons of Findlay. Averett’s Laura Thompson was champion of Lower Training and Allison Robbins of Albion placed in reserve. Intro champion was Colleen Grant of Otterbein and reserve went to Bridget Shea of University of New Hampshire.

 

“Findlay really knows how to host a national championship,” said Virginia Tech Coach and IDA board member, Teresa McDonald. “They really did an outstanding job of getting sponsors. They gave out great prizes, were incredibly organized and their students were amazing. They’ve really raised the bar for future IDA National hosts.”

 

All first place winners received a Henri de Revelle saddle from sponsors JPC Equestrian and the winning team received a $1,000 scholarship from Cunningham & Cunningham Livestock Insurance.  IDA National sponsors also included Full Spectrum Tack Shop & Full Spectrum Friesian Stable, Wyldewood Tack Shop, Dressage Today, Whitson Properties, Cunningham & Cunningham Livestock Insurance, Sidelines Magazine, SmartPak, Perri’s Leather, Dos Equine LLC – Jan Grimm, Sidelines Saddlery, Michael & Mary Lou Sims, Margie Shoop Photography - Inspiring Images, Mountain Dew, International Riding Helmets (IRH), Intec, United States Dressage Federation (USDF)

 

Sue Kolstad, from Florence, Kentucky and Sue Madden-Mandas of Dayton, Ohio served as judges for the event.

Kelley Corrigan-Dammeyer Wins Sho Clothes Whip At Wellington Classic Dressage Challenge III Show

West Palm Beach, FL – Kelley Corrigan-Dammeyer and her own Danish Warmblood Robinson 286 rode away the winners of the prestigious Sho Clothes Whip at the recent Wellington Classic Dressage Challenge III Show. Corrigan-Dammeyer and her nine-year-old gelding earned a score of 71.0535% to capture the engraved whip at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Florida.

 

“He is a very special horse because he is cooperative and forward,” Corrigan-Dammeyer said about Robinson 286. “I have owned him since he was five years old. Bent Jensen and I found him in Denmark.”

 

Corrigan-Dammeyer is already a fan of Sho Clothes, the Wellington-based dressage boutique, and was in fact wearing breeches from the store when she won the Prix St. Georges Open class and the Sho Clothes Whip. “I am thrilled to win the Sho Clothes Whip,” she said.

 

Corrigan-Dammeyer was also thrilled with Robinson 286. “He was really great during the test. He rode it steady and with no mistakes,” she said.

 

While Corrigan-Dammeyer said she is returning to Maryland for the summer, she will leave knowing she is in good company. Other riders who have won the Whip include Shannon Dueck, Michelle Gibson, Kristy Lund, Janne Rumbough, Mindy Elgart, Jane Springer, Jan Brons and Lisa Wilcox.  

 

“It was a pleasure to present Kelley with the Sho Clothes Whip,” said Betsy Rebar Sell, who co-owns Sho Clothes with Michele Hundt. “Michele and I love having Sho Clothes support the dressage community. And having Kelley, a fan of Sho Clothes, win the Whip was an added bonus.”

 

The Sho Clothes Whip was designed after Rebar Sell’s horse Wonderful Walden. Rebar Sell and Wonderful Walden were Gold Medalists at the Pan Am Games. In addition to supporting the dressage community by sponsoring shows, Sho Clothes also hosts a monthly get together for dressage riders called Shop Talk, which has become a hot spot for riders to gather with top professionals in the equine industry

 

Sho Clothes is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington and they also have a mobile boutique that can be found at dressage shows. Sho Clothes specializes in dressage apparel and has become the “go to” dressage boutique for dressage enthusiasts from all over the world. For more information on Sho Clothes call 561-319-2121 or visit their website at www.shoclothes.com.

TailRx Gets Lucky with Appearance In Lucky Magazine Under “Products the Pros Love”

Westhampton Beach, NY – TailRx, the horse lover’s secret for long and luxurious manes and tails, has once again made its way into a high-fashion magazine. Lucky Magazine, a magazine about shopping and style, is featuring TailRx in its May issue under “Products the Pros Love.”

The magazine wasn’t horsing around with TailRx, but instead jumped right to the point and gave the equine hair product a “thumbs up.” Under the segment titled “Products the Pros Love,” a bottle of TailRx is shown with the statement, “Made to repair thinning horse tails, this unclogs and fortifies follicles so hair can grow back – and it really works for humans, too.”

Hairstylist, horse owner and dressage rider Mary Brunetti, founder of TailRx, knows the product works on both horses and their riders. “TailRx works on humans because all mammals share the same hair follicle structure,” she said. “We have been overrun with calls since the product appeared in Lucky Magazine. Needless to say, I feel very lucky that TailRx was featured.”

This isn’t the first time the horse hair beauty treatment has made it into a women’s fashion magazine. Nylon Magazine featured a story not long ago praising the benefits of TailRx as a way for women to have thicker, healthier and sleeker hair.

Brunetti is pleased that the fashion world has “discovered” TailRx, but is quick to point out that it works wonders on our equine friends as it combats hair loss and helps horses develop a thick, luxurious mane and tail. “I have had wonderful feedback from many riders who are using TailRx on their horses and getting amazing results,” explained Brunetti, who honed her skills as an award winning celebrity hair stylist and nationally recognized technical hair consultant. “I’m not surprised that women want the same look and are eager to try TailRx. How many times have you seen a horse with an amazing mane or tail and thought, ‘I wish my hair looked like that.’”

Brunetti, who was the first woman to receive the prestigious “North American Hairstylist of the Year” award, may have developed the product for equines but the technology works just the same on humans. TailRx is a three-step process that clears and exfoliates clogged hair follicles which then stimulates blood circulation to help form keratin, which forms hair.

For more information on TailRx, visit www.tailrx.com.

Veteran equine photographer Susan Sexton will lead a session at the upcoming Equine Photographers Network Workshop in Colorado

CRITIQUING AND EDITING, well-kept secrets to success 

What is this session about? It's not about how to take pictures. It's more about how to destroy them in a kind and loving way, and with a good reason.

• Understand the phrase "Love is Blind" and how to apply it to your pictures.

• Polish and sharpen your skills so you'll have an advantage over other photographers.

• Learn when to delete, and most importantly, why.

• Learn how to see beyond the moment of the stride, for instance, and into the entire image area. 

• How to recognize what's really in the picture: understanding and applying the Rules of Thirds, composition, etc.

• Establishing a business philosophy.

• Establishing trust with your clients.

• Learn why you like a picture (or don't) and be able to put it into words.

For a complete overview of events:

http://events.equinephotographers.net/col09/index.htm

The Evolution of Horsemanship: International Horseman Chris Irwin Returns to Oregon

April 26, 2009, Rickreall, Oregon—Nine Oak Ranch and Shared Hope for Healing in Rickreall, Oregon is excited to announce from Canada, the return of Internationally Acclaimed Equestrian Clinician, author and revolutionary creator of the Equine Assisted Personal Development (EAPD) model-- Chris Irwin, for a two-day Horsemanship Clinic and an evening EAPD Demonstration, June 6 and 7, 2009 from 9 am to 6 pm.

 

Touted by national horse magazines and equine organizations as “the man known to break the code of equus”, Irwin’s brand of horsemanship brings horse and rider to extraordinary levels by transforming the relationship between horse and human to one of trust, respect and true partnership.   Chris Irwin is boldly going with horses where no trainer has gone before.  From transforming wild mustangs into riding and driving National Champions, to training “problem” Warm bloods in Europe to achieve National Dressage Titles, Chris has empowered both English and Western riders from beginner to Grand Prix with his truly unique “discover your horsepower” approach.  Irwin is featured as the host trainer for Stateline Tack and Horse.com providing online video tips to help solve and re-solve issues with horses before they begin!

 

His work does not stop there as he is also helping people through his own method of Equine Assisted Personal Development.  From the corporate board room, to family dynamics, to troubled youth and vulnerable populations with autism, mental illness or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and seekers of spiritual development, Irwin’s work is helping people to “evolve” from a place of surviving to thriving. 

 

Chris will weave the principles of EAPD through out the day with the Horsemanship Clinic to show the work in action.  Participants and spectators alike will gain and benefit through the experience of being present and focused, witnessing how a “power with” rather than a “power over” mind set can achieve results that are long lasting and life-enhancing.  This is an opportunity that should not be missed! 

 

 

Nine Oak Ranch is a boarding facility providing lessons and training based upon partnership, respect and unity. 

 

Shared Hope for Healing is a nonprofit organization providing Equine Assisted Therapies and Nature-Based Treatment programs.  The mission of Shared Hope is to explore, enhance and help people heal psychologically, emotionally, socially and spiritually by re-connecting to the restorative healing powers of nature. Contact Linda Shannon, LCSW, Executive Director of Shared Hope for Healing at 503-779-4786.  Web site information: www.sharedhopeforhealing.com

 

For more information on Chris Irwin www.chrisirwin.com. 

Pennfield Donates Feed in Memory of 21 Polo Ponies

LANCASTER, Pennsylvania, April 27, 2009— Pennfield Equine Feed Technologies announced today they will feed 21 horses at the Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue in Loxahatchee, Florida, in memory of the 21 polo ponies lost last week.

“We offer our sincerest condolences to the Lechuza Caracas team and the polo community,” said Jeff Katelan, national sales and marketing manager for Pennfield’s Country Life Products. “It’s human nature to feel helpless at times like this, but feeding 21 horses who need help is one positive thing we can do, in memory of the ones lost.”

For more information about Pennfield, please visit pennfield.com. For more information about Pure Thoughts, visit purethoughtshorserescue.com.

About Pennfield

Founded in 1919, Pennfield is a widely respected, family-owned feed company headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Known for using only the finest feed ingredients and precision, state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, Pennfield has earned the trust of world-class trainers and competitors throughout the equine industry by guaranteeing 100% of its equine feeds are “fixed formulas,” meaning each lot is identical to the one that came before it. In 1996, Pennfield joined forces with Kentucky Equine Research and consequently merged tradition and technology. Pennfield's quality manufacturing and personal service combined with KER's state-of-the-art nutritional expertise gives Pennfield customers advanced equine nutrition and uncontested technical support. Pennfield was selected to feed the Olympic teams in 2004 and 2008, and our teams for the FEI World Equestrian Games in 2002 and 2006. In 2008, Pennfield was awarded “Official Feed of the USEF” status by the United States Equestrian Federation. For more information, please visit pennfield.com or call 800-995-0333.

The Edge has finally arrived!

EasyCare Inc. announces their latest riding boot

 

Tucson, Arizona April, 2009 The long awaited Easyboot Edge hoof boot is now available.  This boot is great for the weekend warrior as well as the long distance rider who wants protection over their horse's bare feet.

Trail riders will appreciate the worm clamp fastening system which makes this boot easy to apply, and an aggressive tread that grips slick terrain. The gaiter is designed for a seamless fit while the smooth interior hugs the hoof.  The tread will last 500-750 miles on average and theyl outlast shoes 3 to 1!

The Easyboot Edge opens wide enough for the foot to easily slip in and adjustments can be made using the new "Easy Key" that comes with the boot. A screwdriver or penny can also be used. The padded tongue ensures the boots are not over tightened and all hard portions of the boot are below the hairline.

The Easyboot Edge is sold in pairs. EasyCare has also released three other boots this year--the Easyboot Glove, the Easyboot Glue-On and the Easyboot Rx therapy boot. Call EasyCare for a dealer near you.

Visit our From the Horse's Mouth blog for up the latest updates on our new line of hoof boots and the latest research and development. 

About EasyCare, Inc.

EasyCare, Inc. has been a leader in the hoof boot industry for years, beginning with the invention of the Easyboot back in the early 70's. Since then, the need for boots has grown tremendously as more and more horse owners see the healthy advantages of pulling shoes and switching to natural hoof care. EasyCare is excited about being part of this growing trend. For more information about hoof boots or natural hoof care please call EasyCare, Inc. at 1-800-447-8836, e-mail: admin@easycareinc.com or visit our website at www.easycareinc.com.

P.R.E. Raffle Mare Introduced

Albuquerque, NM.  April 25, 2009.  The Foundation for the Pure Spanish Horse today introduced to the public the 2009 Raffle Horse, Maravilla RSDP.

 

The winning ticket for this two year old grey filly, a pure Spanish Horse with her registration document in hand, will be won in a drawing on Thanksgiving Day (November 26) 2009.  Being young, this filly is offered with ground training, good manners and an exceptional pedigree.  She will remain in training during 2009.  In the new year, with her new owner, she will be of age to begin her under saddle work as well as to begin her contemplated career as a broodmare.

 

This raffle mare is being trained in Southern California.  Visits to see her may be arranged by appointment through The Foundation’s Albuquerque office.  She will be on display at Pure Spanish Horse events in Southern California.

 

The Foundation offers tickets for $10 each, or 11 tickets for $100 or 111 tickets for $1,000.  Tickets may be purchased through The Foundation’s office or at events where the Pure Spanish Horse is offered.

 

The Foundation for the Pure Spanish Horse will use the funds generated by the sale of tickets to fund its many programs including the 2009 essay, art and photography contest where the grand prize will be a Pure Spanish Horse. The Foundation is a not for profit public benefit corporation whose purpose is to develop, perpetuate and foster an appreciation and understanding of the Pure Spanish Horse (P.R.E.) throughout the Unites States, and any other country where interest in the P.R.E. has been expressed of the help of The Foundation requested.

 

Barb Clark

The Foundation for the Pure Spanish Horse

4001 Juan Tabo NE, Suite D

Albuquerque  NM  87111

Tel:  505.294.0800

Fax:  505.294.0812

Email:  foundationabq@qwestoffice.net

www.prehorse.org

AQHA’S NEW DVD AND GREENER PASTURES PROGRAM ADDRESS UNWANTED HORSE ISSUE

America’s Horse, April 27, 2009 -- No accurate figures document how many unwanted horses actually exist, their age, their sex, the breeds represented, how many are purebred versus grade, their most recent use, their value or what happens to them in the long run. The estimate runs in the tens of thousands.

Unfortunately, the number of unwanted horses exceeds the resources currently available to accommodate them. The estimated cost of providing basic care for a horse ranges from $1,800-$2,400 annually. Currently, there are not enough volunteers, funding or placement opportunities for all of the unwanted horses.

“A Synopsis of the Unwanted Horse” by renowned veterinarian Tom Lenz is a 10-minute DVD available for the cost of postage and handling – only $9. Dr. Lenz, a columnist for The American Quarter Horse and The American Quarter Horse Racing journals, is the chairman of the Unwanted Horse Coalition. UHC represents a broad alliance of equine organizations that have joined together under the American Horse Council to educate the horse industry about the unwanted horse issue. The mission of UHC is to reduce the number of unwanted horses and to improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety, and responsible care and disposition of these horses. To order Dr. Lenz’s DVD, e-mail mailto:blinke@aqha.org.

In an effort to combat the unwanted horse population, AQHA has developed the Greener Pastures program. The program allows AQHA members to indicate on a horse’s registration certificate that should that horse ever become unwanted, unusable or simply ready for retirement, the member will – if possible – assist in finding the horse a suitable home.

The program is free, completely voluntary, does not imply that a buyback or exchange of money will occur, or that a horse is guaranteed a home, because sometimes situations can and do change. It simply allows members – who can and want to – an opportunity to provide for the long-term care of horses they’ve bred or owned. However, you must be an AQHA member to sign up for or enroll a horse in the program. Go to www.aqhamembers.com to sign in with your AQHA member ID and personal identification number.

“AQHA wants to help responsible horse owners,” said Tom Persechino, AQHA Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. “We believe we can better serve the equine industry and help ensure the long-term care of horses we register with this program. By implementing Greener Pastures, we begin to fill a void.”

AQHA believes that being “green” means more than reducing one’s carbon footprint; it’s actually a much larger issue of social responsibility to the earth and all of its creatures.

Essentially, the Association will act as a clearinghouse by tracking Greener Pastures-enrolled horses and AQHA members who have indicated the desire to help.

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.

BIVI Launches Equine Joint Health Management Program

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (April 27, 2009) – Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (BIVI), announces the formation of the equine Joint Health Management (JHM) program, an education program for veterinarians and horse owners designed to prevent and treat equine joint problems.

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of joint dysfunction in horses. Acute injury and overuse can lead to chronic joint pain. BIVI has formed a collaboration with Dr. David Frisbie, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVS, who is an Associate Professor at Colorado State University and part of their Equine Orthopaedic Research Center as well as a partner in Equine Sports Medicine PLLC, Pilot Point Texas.  The goal of this collaboration is to develop an educational series to help veterinarians and horse owners not only prevent joint problems in horses but also treat existing problems.

 

Dr. Frisbie has focused the last 15 years of research/clinical practice on diagnostics and therapeutics for joint disease and he will present his latest findings as part of the JHM educational series developed by BIVI. The JHM series for veterinarians will kick off on May 12, 2009, with Dr. Frisbie in Fort Worth, Texas. The series, which is free of charge and open to all veterinarians, will continue through August with stops in Kentucky, Pe nnsylvania, California and New Jersey.

 

In addition, horse owners and veterinarians are invited to participate in the JHM webinar hosted on TheHorse.com on Tuesday, May 19 at 8:00 p.m (EST).

 

“Education on the proper prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis is an important part of improving the health of horses,” says Frisbie. “With the Joint Health Management program, we are taking steps in the right direction to ensure wellness.”

 

Frisbie’s presentations also will discuss the recent research findings related to two of the joint health management products offered by BIVI. Surpass® is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) cream that BIVI has recently acquired from IDEXX. It is used for effective control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. And Hyvisc®, an intra-articular injection, offers a dependable solution for treatment of joint dysfunction.

 

“The Joint Health Management education program, with the expertise of Dr. David Frisbie, will provide a great resource to veterinarians and horse owners in improving the management of osteoarthritis,” says Matt Musselman, director, equine segment, BIVI. “With our recent acquisition of the Surpass product, we can now offer our customers a first and second line of defense against equine joint pain.”

 

For more information on the Joint Health Management program, dates for the education series and webinar, please visit www.jointhealthmanagement.com.

 

Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (St. Joseph, Mo.), is a subsidiary of Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation based in Ridgefield, Conn., and a member of the Boehringer Ingelheim group of companies.

The Boehringer Ingelheim group is one of the world’s 20 leading pharmaceutical companies. Headquartered in Ingelheim, Germany, it operates globally with 135 affiliates in 47 countries and approximately 39,800 employees. Since it was founded in 1885, the family-owned company has been committed to researching, developing, manufacturing and marketing novel products of high therapeutic value for human and veterinary medicine.

In 2007, Boehringer Ingelheim posted net sales of US $15.0 billion (10.9 billion euro) while spending approximately one-fifth of net sales in its largest business segment, Prescription Medicines, on research and development.

For more information, please visit www.bi-vetmedica.com.

Old Friends Homecoming is May 3. McCarron, Haskin, Cruguet to Announce Winner of “Name that Horse” Challenge.

GEORGETOWN, KY—APRIL 27, 2009—The Old Friends Annual “Homecoming” will take place Sunday May 3rd at the Georgetown, KY farm, located on 1841 Paynes Depot Road. The event begins at 5 p.m. and will feature a buffet by Wallace Station, live Bluegrass music, and a live and silent auction of incredible crafts, jewelry, artwork, horse supplies, racing memorabilia, and many collectible stallion halters, among them: Big Brown, Unbridled Song, Belmont winner Jazil, Cigar, and a very rare halter from English Channel.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet many new retirees, including Glitterman, Polish Navy, Eclipse winner The Wicked North, and Vosburgh champ Bonapaw.

Another highlight of the event will be the announcement of the “Name that Horse” contest winner. A colt rescued from Ernie Paragallo’s Upstate New York farm arrived at Old Friends last week. The facility has been collecting $50 donations and suggestions in a contest to name the Horse with no Name. 

Old Friends has put together an esteemed panel of judges to choose the winner from the entries, including celebrated jockeys Chris McCarron and Jean Cruguet and turf writer and Blood Horse Senior Correspondent Steve Haskin. 

Entries are still being accepted and can be made via mail (1841 Paynes Depot Road, Georgetown, KY 40324), email (sylvia@oldfriendsequine.org), or by phone (502-863-1775) and will be considered until midnight on Friday May 1, 2009.

After a name is chosen, Old Friends will also officially register the horse with the Jockey Club if possible, so players are advise to keep their ideas to no more than 18 characters (including spaces) and to consider already existing names.

The winner will also receive a complimentary gift bag of Old Friends apparel and other goodies.

For more information and to make your reservations to the May 3rd event please contact Old Friends at (502) 863 1775.

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that is home to over 36 retired racehorses. It’s Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. For more information on tours, reservations at the Old Friends B&B, or to make a donation, contact the farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

Eric Freitas Wins 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Non Pro Championship on Travelin Cielo

The first of the 2009 National Reined Cow Horse Association Hackamore Classic Champions were crowned Sunday, April 26, at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California, when the Non Pro riders finished the cow work early in the afternoon.

Eric Freitas earned the Non Pro Championship on his horse, Travelin Cielo, by Travalena and out of Peppys Powderedsugar. Consistency paid off for the pair - with scores of 143 in the herd and rein work, they came back in the cow work with an impressive 149.

"The cattle were a little tough in the herd work. We just had a safe run. Our rein work was good, if a little soft," said Freitas. "When it came down to the cow work, I knew we'd have to mark big. Luckily, we drew the right cow and everything worked out right."

The Non Pro title came with a big check for $5,628. Although Freitas was the one who rode Travelin Cielo in competition, he was quick to give credit to Korie Baker. "Korie trained him and keeps him legged up for me. I just show up and show him. She's the reason we are able to do so well," he said. "I also want to thank John and Brenda Stephenson of San Juan Ranch. They're the breeders and are the ones who sold him to me."

The Reserve Championship went to Anne Reynolds, who rode Very Smart Flo Jo, by Very Smart Remedy and out of Teena Cash Flo, to a 433.5 composite. Reynolds, who won the Non Pro title in 2008, collected $4,690 in earnings. Very Smart Flo Jo is owned by Anne's mother, Joyce Pearson.

Carol Roberts claimed the Intermediate Non Pro Championship on Ill Be A Superstar. They started the weekend marking a 148 in the herd work. "She was awesome. She was everywhere I wanted her to be. As long as I stayed out of her was she did what she was supposed to," said Roberts. The high herd score was followed by an equally impressive 147 in the rein work, when the mare "just did her job and was easy to show."

But in the cow work, a slight pilot error resulted in a 137. "It was my boo boo. We left wide and couldn't get the cow over. We're working at leaving better. I'm still very thrilled with where we ended up."

The Intermediate title paid $2,820, and Roberts also collected third place in the Non Pro division, worth an additional $3,752.

Although Roberts doesn't have a place to practice her cow work, she explained that some very special people let her use their facilities. "I really have incredible friends - Shannon McCarty and Jo Anne Carollo are great. I am blessed to have such a great circle of friends." She added, "I also want to thank my amazing herd help. Jon Roeser, Ed Robertson, Brandon Staebler, and Lance Johnston were great."

Right behind Roberts in both divisions was Patty Ralls and Chicken Time, by A Chic In Time and out of Paula Bud Acre. Their scores of 139, 143.5, and 137 netted a check for $2,115 in the Intermediate Non Pro, and $2,814 for their fourth place finish in the Non Pro.

Rick Petty picked up the Amateur title on Buenonic Reins, a gelding that the Petty family raised. The 5-year-old gelding is by Shiners Buenonic, a stallion owned by Rick's son, Bubba, and his wife, Nicole.

"He's out of Shiners Buenonic's first foal crop. He'd done real well and I'm real glad I get to show him this year," explained Petty.

At the Hackamore Classic, the pair collected a $1,274 check, thanks to scores of 140 in the herd work, 136.5 in the rein work, and 137 in the cow work. "He was as soft as could be in the herd work, and anything we did wrong in the rein work was rider error," Petty said. "We had a very unruly little cow in the fence work. It was set up good going down the fence, and must have seen a sign it didn't like, and jumped away from it. We had some open field turns and this horse circled up like a trooper."

Petty thanked Kris and Brandon Staebler for their help, and his son, Bubba, for doing such a great job training Buenonic Reins. "I also can't thank my sweet wife, Susan, enough. She's my support, and she keeps me going. I couldn't do it without her."

The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse.

Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes John Deere, Adequan(r), Bob's Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today's equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at www.nrcha.com

Doug Williamson Wins 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic on Smart Miss Merada

Doug Williamson defines perseverance. After fighting his way back from a setback with cancer, the National Reined Cow Horse Association Hall of Fame inductee won his second NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Championship in 2002.

And after experiencing a grisly fall just seven months ago during the 2008 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity cow work, he has once again come back to win - this time taking the 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Open Championship on Smart Miss Merada.

For Williamson, the comeback is all about getting to do what he loves - train and show reined cow horses. "I'm just a lucky man to still be doing what I love to do. I have to thank my wife, Carol, and all my help. They're my inspiration, because they believe in me so much. I am so grateful to them," he said following the awards ceremony held at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California.

At the Hackamore Classic, Williamson piloted the mare to a 148 in the herd work, and followed that with a 145.5 in the reining. "She was really cute and good in the cutting, and she was very strong and nice in the reining," he said. "In the cow work, we had tough cattle, but she handled it anyways. We wound up marking a 149."

Because he owns Smart Miss Merada (Leo Merada x Uno Smart Lady), Williamson was awarded a check for $17,180, a Bob's Custom Saddle sponsored by Lacey Livestock, a monogrammed tooled breast collar from Classic Equine, a full handcrafted hackamore from Krause Mecates and San Benito Braiding, and a CR Morrison NRCHA trophy.

Earning the Open Reserve and the Intermediate Open Championship was Ed Robertson, who rode the 4-year-old stallion, That CD Rocks, to a 442 total. The Open Reserve title netted $13,744, and the Intermediate Open Championship came with a check for $3,960.

With Robertson at the reins, That CD Rocks (CD Lights x Shiney Tari) marked a 149.5 in the herd work, and followed that with another 149.5 in the rein work. "We were last in the set, and I got to cut the cows I had picked out. This horse was awesome and was just dead on. In the reining, he was smooth as glass, and he just floated through," he explained.

And although the score of 143 in the cow work was a point shy of what was needed to take the lead in the Open from Williamson, Robertson was quick to say the horse did his job. "Today we had a lot of cow. We had good fence turns but he was scrambling in the circle. But this horse was really good, and honestly, he's really good all the time," he said. "I really want to thank Robbie Humphreys for letting me show this horse."

At the 2008 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity, Robertson and the stallion earned the Intermediate Open Championship, and barely a month ago earned the Open and Intermediate Open Championships at the NRCHA Stakes in Nampa, Idaho. The stallion's future looks bright. "We're just going to save him and take him to the big ones," he explained.

Brandon Staebler earned Intermediate Open Reserve honors on Chic Ostarlight, owned by Kim Routh.  Chic Ostarlight, by Smart Chic Olena and out of Cassandra Starlight, had a 431.5 composite, worth $3,168.

Will Pennebaker won the Limited Open Championship on his horse, Snorty Little Pep, by Snorty Lena and out of Badger Sis. Their 417 composite came with a paycheck for $2,010. "I had a hot quit in the herd work - my second cow wouldn't quit, and when it did I was just a little too slow getting off of it. But then we went in the reining and that was the best she's ever done. We had a tough cow down the fence, but we got her shown. This is actually her first show this year," said the Clements, California, trainer.

Although Pennebaker hopes to show the mare at the NRCHA Derby in June, he noted that the mare was for sale.

Jimmy Flores earned Limited Open reserve title, and a check for $1,340 on Lil Shady Playgirl. Lil Shady Playgirl, by Whoa Bubba and out of Doctors Shady Kitten, is owned by Kerry Schmidt.

The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse. Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes John Deere, Adequan(r), Bob's Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today's equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at www.nrcha.com

JULIE I. FERSHTMAN WRITES NEW BOOK ON EQUINE AND ANIMAL LAW LITIGATION

Nationally known Equine Law practitioner Julie I. Fershtman co-authored and co-edited a brand new book published by the American Bar Association entitled “Litigating Animal Law Disputes: A Complete Guide for Lawyers.”  The book was released on April 24, 2009.

 

“I'm excited to help develop a resource for lawyers who handle, or want to handle, cases involving animals,” Fershtman commented.   “The chapters that I wrote for this book draw on my Equine Law practice and address the law of contract and sales disputes, tort law, insurance law, and practical suggestions for lawyers who handle animal-related legal matters.”  She added: “With the increasing popularity of animal law nationwide, the American Bar Association strongly believes that the legal community will find this book to be a valuable asset and a useful resource for the growing number of lawyers who seek to venture into this area of the law.”

 

The book addresses numerous issues of interest to lawyers who handle matters involving equine law and animal law such as tort law (written by Fershtman), contract and sales law (written by Fershtman), ownership and custody disputes, veterinary malpractice, disability rights, association legal issues, insurance law (written by Fershtman), remedies, criminal law, expert witnesses, and practical considerations (written by Fershtman).  The book also includes citations to hundreds of cases and statutes as well as sample form court filings, litigation contracts, and correspondence.

 

Fershtman is uniquely qualified to co-author this book as she is one of the most experienced Equine Law practitioners in the United States.  A lawyer for nearly 23 years, her busy practice crosses all breeds and disciplines and serves a national clientele of businesses, clinicians, trainers, stables, associations, and individual horse owners.  She has successfully tried equine-related cases before juries in four states.  She has also drafted several hundred equine contracts that cover a wide variety of transactions. Recognized among her peers, she is one of very few lawyers to be named a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Equine Attorneys.

 

“Litigating Animal Law Disputes: A Complete Guide for Lawyers” is Fershtman’s third law-related book but her first ever to be written for lawyers.  Fershtman’s other two books, “Equine Law & Horse Sense” and “MORE Equine Law & Horse Sense,” were designed to educate people in the equine industry and to help them avoid legal disputes.  The “Equine Law & Horse Sense” books are required reading at leading college equine studies programs.  To order these two books, call toll-free 1-866-5-EQUINE [866-537-8463], or visit www.equinelaw.info for more information.

Aside from her many writings, Fershtman is also the nation’s leading speaker on Equine Law with speaking engagements at conventions in 26 states that include the American Horse Council, Equitana, Equine Affaire, U.S. Dressage Federation, North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, U.S. Pony Clubs, American Paint Horse Association, American Youth Horse Council, and the National Conference on Equine Law.

 

For her contributions to the equine industry, Fershtman has received numerous distinctions. CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) honored her with its prestigious "Partner in Safety" Award.  The American Riding Instructors Association presented her with an "Outstanding Achievement" Award.  She received an "Associate Award" from the United Professional Horsemen's Association and was a recipient of the Michigan Horse Council's "Catalyst Award."  She is a past board member of the American Youth Horse Council and the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource and is a legal counsel to several national equine organizations.

 

To learn more about “Litigating Animal Law Disputes: A Complete Guide for Lawyers,” visit the American Bar Association Book Store: http://www.abanet.org/abastore/index.cfm?section=main&fm=Product.AddToCart&pid=5190436

 

For information on Julie Fershtman’s law practice, visit www.equinelaw.net.

Jake Telford and Shady Lil Starlight Win Open Bridle Sweepstakes at 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic

Jake Telford has ridden Shady Lil Starlight to win major titles in Open Hackamore and Open Two Rein competition. On Saturday, April 25, at the 2009 National Reined Cow Horse Association Hackamore Classic, the Caldwell, Idaho, trainer piloted the 7-year-old stallion to his first bridle earnings, winning the Open Bridle Sweepstakes.

The pair had actually competed a few weeks earlier for the first time in the bridle, but Telford admitted that pilot error had kept them out of contention for a win. "I really over-showed him this last time. I had several mistakes then," he explained. "Today I just told myself to relax, and he was really good."

In the rein work, the pair marked a 149.5, and followed that with an impressive 152 in the cow work for a 301.5 total. The win netted a check for $5,460, adding to the stallions already impressive career earnings of $40,000.

"I wish I knew what made him such a consistent winner," Telford said modestly of the Grays Starlight stallion, owned by Holy Cow Performance Horses. "If I could figure that out, I'd be a millionaire training horses."

Reigning NRCHA World's Greatest Horseman Champions Russell Dilday and Topsails Rien Maker took Reserve honors, marking a 147 in the rein work and 148 in the cow work for a 295 total. The accomplished trainer and his successful stallion, who he owns in partnership with Kevin Cantrelle, collected $4,368. Topsails Rien Maker is by Topsail Cody and out of Jameen Gay.

In the Limited Open division, Ty Rohrbaugh rode Peppys Prize Freckle to top honors, earning $1,500 for Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch. The 21-year-old trainer, who works for Kevin and Karen Stallings, was quick to say that riding the 13-year-old gelding has improved his showing. "He's been around the block, and he knows what he's doing," said Rohrbaugh. "He's teaching me a lot and I'm grateful that I get to ride him."

The judges awarded Rohrbaugh and Peppys Prize Freckle a score of 139.5, and in the cow work they received a 139. "He felt really good in the rein work. There was one stop that he got a little stuck in the ground, but it was ok. In the cow work he was a little strong, but he had a huge second turn and circled up better than he ever has," Rohrbaugh noted.

The Limited Open Reserve title winner was Becky Holman riding her horse, Saturday Night Dual. Holman and Dual earned a 275 total, collected $900.

The NRCHA Hackamore Classic is held at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California. The Hackamore Classic, one of the association's premier events, runs thru April 26.

The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse. Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes John Deere, Adequan(r), Bob's Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today's equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at www.nrcha.com

Anne Reynolds Wins 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Non Pro Bridle Sweepstakes on More Magic Please

The first day of competition at the 2009 National Reined Cow Horse Association Hackamore Classic, held April 24-26 at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California, not only featured the herd work of the limited age event, but also three NRCHA approved horse show classes.

In the Non Pro Bridle Sweepstakes, Anne Reynolds piloted her 2005 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Champion, More Magic Please, to the Championship. "He felt really good in the reining. I was very happy with him. He was really good in his circles, ran good to his stops, and turned around fast," Reynolds noted of the gelding, by Chic Please and out of Magical Lena, who marked a 146.5 in the rein work.

The pair followed that high score with an impressive 146 in the cow work. "We drew a cow that was really wild in the boxing. I was really worried about it - I thought it would run too fast, but I didn't want it to run out of air on the end. It did run really hard the first time down the fence, but my horse did everything right."

The win netted Reynolds, of King Hill, Idaho, a check for $3,072. More Magic Please is a testament to the success of Reynold's breeding and training program. Reynolds rode his dam, Magical Lena, to win her first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro Championship in 1998, and the talented mare went on to become one of the association's leading money earners.

Another lucrative partnership earned Reserve Championship honors. Patty Ralls and her horse, Chromium Cowboy, marked scores of 144 in the rein work and 147 in the cow work, earning a paycheck of $2,304. Chromium Cowboy, by A Chic In Time and out of Marvelous Miss, was the 2003 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Reserve Open Champion with Patty's husband, Ron, at the reins.

Sarah Sherman earned the Novice Non Pro Bridle Championship on her horse, Educating The Chics, by An Educated Guess and out of Melody Of Hickory. The 285 total netted $1,500. "This was actually my horse's first time in the bridle. I usually show him in the two rein, but I wanted to get some more experience. It was actually our best cow work ever," she admitted.

Sherman, a dentist, was quick to give credit to her trainer, Cayley Wilson. "Cayley is great. I can't thank him enough. Everyone at his barn is also phenomenal about helping out. We all pitch in and I'm so thankful to have their support," she said. "I also want to thank my husband, Judd. I can't thank him enough. He's also a dentist, and he covers the office when I take time off to go ride."

Ernie Beal earned the Novice Non Pro Bridle Reserve Championship on Reminics Smokin Pep, by Reminics Pep and out of Shesa Smoker. The pair marked a 140.5 in the rein work, and followed that with a 141 in the cow work for a 281.5 total. The Reserve title netted $900.

In the provisional Intermediate Non Pro Bridle class, Gay Ver Steeg earned $920 for the win on her horse Dual Sammy, by Dual Peppy and out of Tessa Tivio. "This is a great little horse. He never fails me," she noted after the class. "I really appreciate my husband Jim, and all my friends for their help. I also want to thank Russell Dilday for his help, too."

Jake Telford Wins 2009 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Open Two Rein on Starlights

Finale/Laurie Ward and Kiss Me A Little Win Non Pro Two Rein

Jake Telford rode Starlights Finale to top the field of ten Open Two Rein entries at the 2009 National Reined Cow Horse Association Hackamore Classic, held at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California. Telford rode the 6-year-old mare to a score of 145.5 in the rein work, and 148 in the cow work, earning owner Newt White a check for $1,500.

"She worked great today. She was good in the rein work, and that is normally her weak area," said Telford. He admitted that a feisty bovine in the cow work made him apprehensive. "I had a really tough cow, and I kept hoping that they'd call for a new one. Now I'm really glad they didn't."

The Caldwell, Idaho trainer and the mare, by Grays Starlight and out of Fasa Little Lena, recently won the Open Two Rein at another NRCHA premier event - the NRCHA Stakes. For Telford, the wins are an affirmation of the mare's talent as a Two Rein horse - and also an "I told you so." That's because he had to convince the mare's owner, Newt White, to let him show her in the Two Rein. "I knew she'd be a great two rein horse, and I just wanted the chance to do that. I don't get to be right that often, so when I am, it is really fun," laughed Telford.

There was a three-way tie for the Open Two Rein Reserve Championship. Ron Emmons rode Mister Brown Sugar, by Mister Dual Pep and out of Plain Cute Sugar for Douglas and Cynthia Granade. Kevin Stallings exhibited Shining Lil Nic, by Smart Shiner and out of Dig A Lil Nic, for Bill and Janiejill Tointon, and Dan Roeser rode One Smart Response, by Smart Peppy Doc and out of Remedys Response, for Sheila Combs. All three had composite scores of 289.5 and each earned $1,000.

Laurie Ward won the Non Pro Two Rein Championship on Kiss Me A Little, by Smart Little Pepinic and out of Kiss Me Mister. Ward and the mare, who was competing in only her second Two Rein class, ever, had a 290.5 total, and took home $804.

"She felt perfect today. She always just gets in the show pen and is a really good show horse," noted Ward after the class. The Kingsburg, California, competitor raised the mare and has a winning history with her. In 2006, Laurie earned the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro Reserve Championship and the Intermediate Non Pro Championship on her, and followed that with a win at the Circle Y Ranch Derby. "She's been in the top three or four every time we've shown her. We're very fortunate," noted Ward.

Ernie Beal took Reserve honors on his horse Shesa Mr Dual Pep, by Mister Dual Pep and out of Shesa Smoker. The Reserve Championship was worth $536.

The NRCHA Hackamore Classic is held at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles, California. The Hackamore Classic, one of the association's premier events, runs thru April 26.

The National Reined Cow Horse Association, celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2009, is the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse.

Through the support of a Corporate Partner family that includes John Deere, Adequan(r), Bob's Custom Saddles, Cinch, Inc., Classic Equine, Gist Silversmiths, MD Barns, Platinum Performance, Inc., Nutrena, Quarter Horse News & Performance Horse magazine, the Peppermill Hotel/Resort, Fort Dodge West Nile Innovator, Rios of Mercedes, Merial products ULCERGARD and EQUIOXX, and the Silver Legacy Hotel, the association works to keep the vaquero tradition alive in today's equine industry. For information on the National Reined Cow Horse Association, call 580-759-4949 or visit the NRCHA Official Web Site at www.nrcha.com

Fredericks Tops 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event; Davidson Wins Rolex/USEF National CCI**** Championship

By Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – It was tight at the top of the leaderboard at the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event but the first three places remained unchanged, as Lucinda Fredericks, Bettina Hoy and Buck Davidson each jumped immaculate clear show jumping rounds.

Fredericks, who took over the lead from Hoy after the cross country, had all kinds of horse left in the brand new main arena at the Kentucky Horse Park and Headley Britannia bounded around Richard Jeffrey’s track, giving the pair their third CCI**** win in two years. 

“It would have been a lot easier to nip down the road to Badminton,” said Fredericks. “It took a lot of effort, organization and understanding to get her here but I really look forward to coming back.”

The Australian rider and the 16-year-old Thoroughbred cross mare she owns with her husband Clayton, motored around the cross country course yesterday, and completed the event as one of only three to finish on their dressage score of 32.3.  They took home $80,000 for their effort and Headley Brittania was the first mare to ever win this CCI****.

“She’s a little household name now,” said Fredericks about her beloved mare. “She’s taken everyone’s heart.”

Fredericks duplicated her husband’s effort (and now has her own Rolex watch to match): in 2007 Clayton won this event with Ben Along Time.

 

“After I jumped the first cross pole I turned around to Clayton and said, ‘she just feels great,’” said Fredericks.

 

Ringwood Cockatoo didn’t look much of his 18 years in the Show Jumping today, but Hoy got very lucky at the third fence. The troublesome plank withstood several rubs, and it hung on for Hoy as it had for many others. The Irish Sport Horse gelding is one of the most experienced horses and Hoy used every ounce of her expertise and luck to get a clear round out of him.

 

“I couldn’t have been any prouder of my horse all weekend,” said Hoy, who had to run to catch a plane straight after the prize giving. “He was a true champion all weekend.”

 

The combination finished on 38.4, after picking up time faults on yesterday’s cross country course.

 

But behind two previous four-star winners, was an American horse for the future.

 

Carl and Cassandra Segal’s My Boy Bobby jumped a foot perfect round at his first CCI**** to finish on a score of 40.2.  The13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding is dependably a phenomenal jumper and Davidson was confident in his horse’s ability to produce a clear round today. ‘Bobby’ delivered, jumping beautifully for the Ocala, FL based rider. Previously, Davidson’s top finish here was fourth in 2003, when he also won the Rolex/USEF National CCI**** Championship behind three foreign riders.

 

“I couldn’t be more thankful to have these horses,” said Davidson. “They both jumped fantastically. I had a good feeling today, and these horses are so good.”

 

Davidson was also 15th with another horse for the Segal’s: BallyNoe Castle RM. Davidson was the only rider to jump two clear show jumping rounds.

 

“Certainly when I walked the course it looked a bit easier than in years past,” said Davidson. “But maybe that’s because I’m on better jumpers than I have been in the past.”

 

Last year’s winner, Phillip Dutton and Connaught, was second in the Rolex/USEF National Championship finishing seventh overall. Six nations were represented in the top 10, giving a preview to next year’s Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

The top nine horses show jumped clear, which made for 18 clear rounds.

For a complete list of the rest of the awards and results, please visit www.rk3de.org.  

This win means that Fredericks is now the only rider live in the Rolex Grand Slam, which offers $350,000 to any rider who can win the three most prestigious CCI**** events in the world (Badminton, Burghley and Rolex Kentucky) in any order in succession. British rider Pippa Funnell won the Rolex Grand Slam in 2003 – a feat yet to be duplicated. Fredericks does not have a horse entered Badminton, but Clayton will ride The Frog next week.

For the first year ever, the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event is part of the HSBC Classics Series. This series features $150,000 in prize money to the rider who accumulates the most points at the five global CCI****s. The series begins in Lexington and finishes in Pau, France in October. For more information, please visit: http://www.fei.org/Disciplines/Eventing/Pages/HSBCFEIClassics.aspx.

Please contact Joanie Morris at jmorris@usef.org with questions.

Showdown at Horse Slaughter Pass

CHICAGO, (EWA) – On April 3, Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana issued an amendatory veto of House Bill 418. The bill, designed to attract a horse slaughter facility to the state, would have effectively removed the ability of Montana residents to challenge such a plant's operations in state court.

 

Within hours, the bill's sponsor, Representative Ed Butcher, had issued a defiant statement vowing to challenge the Governor's amendments and to send the bill back to him for an up or down action. A special kind of person is required to defend horse slaughter, and Ed Butcher is such a man. A classic fight was brewing and the only thing missing was an old west saloon piano banging out a frantic chorus.

 

Butcher began his long political career in 1992 as the Chair of Montanans for Term Limits. He was first elected to the Montana Senate in 2000, but by 2004, his interpersonal skills and redistricting catapulted him into the House of Representatives. A determined man, Butcher appears resolved to remain in office until his goal of term limits is finally fulfilled.

 

Nor is Butcher one to shrink from a fight. An outspoken politician in the rich oral -podiatric rhetorical style of former Montana Senator Conrad Burns, Butcher came under a storm of controversy by referring to special needs children as "vegetables". More recently, he referred to his fellow legislator and Native American Jonathan Windy Boy (Chippewa Cree) as "Chief Windy Boy" and inquired whether he would wield his vice-chairman's gavel as a "war club".

 

Butcher was later reported to have said he learned a valuable lesson about how a simple joke can easily be misunderstood. True to his self-criticism, Butcher refrained from any semblance of humor as he hurled insults at the opposition to his horse slaughter bill.

 

In a subsequent interview, Butcher said that the Governor's amendments would "gut" his bill and leave a slaughter house open to "harassment" by "two bit hippies". The comment could be viewed as a reference to the Kaufman, Texas Board of Adjustments, the DeKalb, Illinois Sanitary District and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, all of which have "harassed" horse slaughter plants in recent years over their discharges and dumping.

 

During earlier hearings in the Agriculture Committee, former Mayor Paula Bacon of Kaufman, Texas had told legislators of the long running problems her town had experienced with the Dallas Crown horse slaughter plant, including such graphic details as the plant's installation of a pump designed to force untreated waste down the sewer. The result, Bacon recounted, had been blood rising into the bathtubs and drains of the surrounding community.

 

Butcher was quick to counter Bacon's testimony by saying, "I don't care what Paula Bacon says." That devastating retort on Butcher's part was apparently all the committee needed to hear and they quickly passed the bill to the Senate floor on a 7 to 2 vote.

 

The bill then went to the full Senate where it passed by a narrow majority, eventually winding up on the Governor's desk. In response to Butcher's claims that the bill was effectively "gutted" by the Governor's amendments, opponents of the original exculpatory language point out that only the outrageous provisions were eliminated and that the title, bill number and Butcher's sponsorship remain entirely intact in the amended version.

 

A complete override of the Governor's veto was not in the cards, and neither side wanted a half victory. So the House and Senate voted to reject the amendments, forcing a showdown for the Governor.

 

During the debate on the bill, Representative Butcher referred to "the Belgians", who were interested in locating a plant in Montana if they could be protected from legal "harassment". He assured his fellow legislators that it would be a modern, clean facility and give Montana a much-needed economic boost. However, recent developments at the Belgian plant in Canada provide interesting insights.

 

Last December, the Canadian government suspended the operating license of the Natural Meats (formerly Natural Valley Farms) plant in Neudorf, SK. The plant was run by the Velda Group, referred to by Butcher as "The Belgians". This was the same Velda that had owned the Cavel plant in DeKalb, Illinois; which accumulated over $100,000 in fines for sewer discharge violations. It had been shuttered under a new state law in September, 2007.

 

Butcher's "Belgians" had barely transferred their Cavel operations to the Canadian plant when they fell victim to an ancient Chinese curse, "May you come to the attention of those in authority."

 

The plant was first the subject of a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation story over its treatment of horses. The Canadian Horse Defence Coalition then documented their dumping mountains of entrails on the open landscape near the plant and allegedly letting blood enter a local river. In the end, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency would say only that the license had been suspended for "food safety concerns". After a temporary reinstatement in January, the plant was closed permanently in mid-February.

As regards the highly touted economic boost Butcher promised his Belgian friends would bring to Montana: When it was closed, the plant was already in receivership with debts reported to be in excess of $25 million dollars.

 

In the light of these revelations, Representative Butcher's plan reminds one of the classic westerns where the villain, twirling his mustache and laughing wickedly, ties the girl (in this case the citizenry of Montana) to the tracks. But will the hero (Governor Schweitzer) gallop up, cut the ropes with a slashing veto, and release the hostages? Stay tuned for our next exciting episode.

John Holland is a freelance writer and the author of three books. He frequently writes on the subject of horse slaughter from his small farm in the mountains of Virginia, where he lives with his wife, Sheilah, and their 12 equines. Holland is a charter member of the Equine Welfare Alliance and serves as senior analyst for Americans Against Horse Slaughter, an organization composed entirely of volunteers.

Fredericks Gallops To The Top At the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

A prelude to the Eventing World Championships of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY-April 25, 2009 - Aboard Headley Britannia, Lucinda Fredericks of Australia galloped and jumped to a faultless cross-country round to take over the lead (32.3) at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Dressage leader Bettina Hoy of Germany incurred 9.6 time faults to drop to second place (38.4). 

Buck Davidson, of Riegelsville, Pa., held on to third place, despite 1.2 time faults on My Boy Bobby (40.2), and Tim Lips of the Netherlands jumped faultlessly to remain in fourth place on Concrex Oncarlos (42.0).

Phillip Dutton and Connaught, winners of the 2008 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, are standing in ninth place following a faultless round. Stephen Bradley, winner of the 1996 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, is 10th on Brandenburg's Joshua, also with a faultless round.

     

The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, a part of the HSBC FEI ClassicsTM Series, will run a CCI4* and the 12th championship for the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation Pinnacle Cup, signifying the zenith in eventing competition in the United States. The event draws more than 100,000 spectators and millions more viewers via worldwide telecasts including a one-hour special in the U.S. on NBC on Sunday, May 3.

Fredericks and Headley Britannia finished just under the optimum time of 11:02 despite taking the long routes on two important combinations. Fredericks, 43, said she had always planned to make a wide turn to the fourth element of the Sunken Road (fence 13). "She's very quick to turn, and it just meant we'd have to gallop harder between the fences," she said.

But she hadn't planned to go the long way at the Head of the Lake (fence 15). Headley Britannia lost her balance landing off the drop into the lake, and Fredericks decided she couldn't make the turn to the corner jump in the middle of the lake. "I had to think quick, and I'm not very good at that, so I'm quite proud of myself," she said. 

Still, Headley Britannia, 16, finished with so much energy that Fredericks had to use the fence at the end of the finishing area to help her pull up. "I just kept motoring, and 'Brit' just kept galloping. She really took me home," said Fredericks.

Hoy, who finished 24 seconds slow, said she could not have gone any faster. "I went as fast as I felt was right for the course and for his age," she said. Ringwood Cockatoo is 18 years old. 

"The course was lovely to ride," Hoy, 46, added.

Davidson, 33, said that My Boy Bobby had lived up to his expectations. "He ran out of gas [late in the course], but he sure dug in and tried today," he said. 

Davidson added that show jumping "is his best phase, so I like my chances tomorrow."

On Ballynoe Castle RM, Davidson was the first rider on course this morning. Just before fence 13, the Sunken Road, a dog ran into his path, causing Davidson to check his horse and alter his line to the fence, where Ballynoe Castle RM refused once before continuing. Davidson asked the ground jury to not penalize him for a refusal. The ground jury agreed, removing his 20 jumping faults and 3.2 of his 6.4 time faults, leaving him in 19th place. 

Of the 46 horses that started on today's cross-country course, 38 completed the course, 30 with no jumping faults. Ten horses finished with no jumping or time faults. One horse was retired on course; seven horses were eliminated.

It is with great sadness that the organizers of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event announce that Kingpin, a 13-year-old Irish Sporthorse owned by Mike Winter of Canada and the Kingpin Syndicate and ridden by Winter, collapsed while negotiating fence 10 and died at the scene. Winter was evaluated by medical personnel at the scene and sent to Georgetown Community Hospital for further evaluation and released. He chose not to ride his second horse. 

Veterinary and medical personnel were in attendance at the time of the fall. The cause of the horse's death is still under investigation. A preliminary report of the examination of the horse's body showed that he had bled into his abdomen. 

"We are not able to speculate on the cause of the bleeding. A complete evaluation will be performed," said Dr. Catherine Kohn, the veterinary delegate. 

As the only four-star event in the Western Hemisphere, the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is the premier competition for the top horses and riders in eventing.  Past winners include U.S. Olympic Medalists David and Karen O'Connor, Kim Severson and Phillip Dutton, New Zealand's Blyth Tait and Nick Larkin, Pippa Funnell of Great Britain and Andrew Hoy and Clayton Fredericks of Australia. 

The $350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing is awarded to any rider who wins the Rolex Kentucky, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton and Land Rover Burghley Four-Star Events in succession.  In 2003, Pippa Funnell of Great Britain became the first, and to date only, rider to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. 

Eventing fans will have the opportunity to watch free live coverage of the show jumping on April 26 online at www.universalsports.com.

For more information on the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, please visit the Rolex Kentucky website at www.rk3de.org.

Fredericks Flies to the Lead; Buck Davidson Remains Top-Placed American in Third at the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

By Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – The top two places shuffled but the names on top of the leaderboard remained the same after the cross country at the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.

Australia’s Lucinda Fredericks had a lightning fast round on her chestnut mare Headley Britannia. Trying to duplicate her husband Clayton’s winning feat in 2007, Fredericks blazed around and made the optimum time of 11 minutes despite having to go the long way at the Head of the Lake.

 

“Things didn’t go quite as planned at the Head of the Lake,” said Fredericks. “ She’s a funny little thing, she can get strong and be difficult to manage at the beginning of the course, I had always planned to take the long route at the sunken road, I just had a bee in my bonnet about that. Then I was making up the time and she had really opened up, I came around the corner and didn’t quite get the distance I wanted (at the Head of the Lake). I had planned for six (strides to the corner) and I got four.”

 

The pair stands on their dressage score of  32.3. A winner at Burghley in 2006 and Badminton in 2007, the diminutive 16-year-old Thoroughbred cross is poised to become the first mare to win this CCI****.

 

“I don’t think I’ve ever gone so fast – she just motored,” said Fredericks.

 

Dressage winner Bettina Hoy gave her 18-year-old Irish Sport Horse veteran, Ringwood Cockatoo, a sympathetic ride around Mike Etherington-Smith’s course. The German rider swapped places with Fredericks when she picked up 9.6 time faults. Their two-day score of 38.4, keeps them less than a rail clear of the top placed American.

 

“He was a little bit backed off,” said Hoy. “He wouldn’t be the most confident horse with drop fences, and there were a lot of drops out there. But we are like an old married couple out there, I’m very, very proud of him.”

 

Buck Davidson, who gave Carl and Cassandra Segal’s My Boy Bobby a fantastic ride, picked up 1.2 time faults along the way. They lead the 12th Rolex/USEF National CCI**** Championship.

 

The 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse jumps with the very best, but lacks a little bit of gallop. Davidson, who is one of the top up-and-coming professionals in the country at 32 years old, rode very accurately, looked after ‘Bobby’ and got him home safely at his first CCI****.

 

“Bobby stuck in there and tried harder than I thought he ever would,” said Davidson. “I had a few time faults but I’m very, very proud of him. He gave me everything he had. He was so good through the Lake to go to the corner on a long stride. It was hot out there and he just kept trying.”

 

Davidson shared the course with his father at the end of the afternoon, Bruce Davidson, Sr. Bruce has won the event five times, Buck has been the leading young rider on numerous occasions and was fourth in 2003.

 

“I was so excited and relieved to see Dad come home on Cruise Lion,” said Davidson. “He was so proud.”

 

Davidson had a mishap on his first horse, BallyNoe Castle RM. Just before the sunken road a dog ran onto the course and BallyNoe Castle RM had a refusal at the first element. Despite that, Davidson was really proud of both his horses at their first CCI****.

 

“Both horses were terrific,” said Davidson. “I couldn’t have asked for better rides on either.”

 

Perfect weather and conditions greeted the competitors and the track rode well, a great test run for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park next September.

 

For complete results and a live web cast please see: www.rk3de.org.

 

William Fox-Pitt is live in the Rolex Grand Slam, which offers $350,000 to any rider who can win the three most prestigious CCI**** events in the world (Badminton, Burghley and Rolex Kentucky) in any order, in succession. Fox-Pitt won last year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials with Tamarillo, if he wins Rolex Kentucky he will head to Badminton in two weeks time to attempt to accomplish a feat only done once before. Fellow Brit, Pippa Funnell won the Rolex Grand Slam in 2003. Currently he lies eighth on 45.9 with Seacookie.

 

For the first year ever, the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event is part of the HSBC Classics Series. This series features $150,000 in prize money to the rider who accumulates the most points at the five global CCI****s. The series begins in Lexington and finishes in Pau, France in October. For more information, please visit: http://www.fei.org/Disciplines/Eventing/Pages/HSBCFEIClassics.aspx. 

HORSE EXPO OPENS IN RED DEER

Red Deer, AB – The Mane Event horse expo and trade fair returned to Westerner Park Friday for its annual weekend of clinics, presentations and demonstrations by top international equine clinicians. Attendees can also visit 230 exhibitors who are offering their equine products and services at the 115,000 sq. ft. trade show.

The Mane Event, well known for its focus on offering education to a wide range of interests in the equine community, has again brought in top international clinicians. National Finals Rodeo veteran Gary Leffew of California is on the schedule to conduct bull riding clinics and presentations, a first for the Mane Event.  Also in the line-up is Mette Rosencrantz (dressage),  Canadian show jumping competitor and former Olympian Jay Hayes, Dana Hokana (Western pleasure and horsemanship), Arizona horseman Al Dunning (reining, cutting and horsemanship), Hardy Zantke (driving), Gigi Bailey (hunter under saddle) and Bobby Richards (gaited horses).  Clinician Robyn Hood and gifted horseman, teacher and presenter Jonathan Field, a regular at the Mane Event, are also on the schedule.

Show organizers said that over 25 4-H groups were planning to bring their members to the Event. “Our show is education.  It’s not entertainment, although it is very entertaining to be at.  It is always fun to learn when you are having fun.”

The Trainers Challenge got underway with this year’s contenders having their first training session in the round pen with an unbroke three-year-old gelding they drew for. Up first was Patrick Hooks of Oklahoma, was first in the ring, followed by Doug Mills, well known BC-based trainer and three-time champion at the Mane Event in Chilliwack, BC. Champion Bronc rider Mel Hyland, who has been one of the Trainers Challenge judges at the Mane Event for the past two years, is now on the “fun side of the fence.”

“This is what we do for a living so in reality it will be easier for me to be on the inside of this fence than it is sitting there trying to judge someone else doing it,” said Hyland.  “I like it because it’s a challenge for myself.  It’s also an opportunity to share with people the stuff I believe in.”

The Mane Event offers a full 13 hours of activity Saturday, The day ends with the Equine Experience featuring drill teams, breed parades and entertaining demonstrations.

Get the Kerrits Look with their new Gallop On Tee and Tight for under $100 MSRP

Hood River, OR—Kerrits approach to EQ apparel is to provide outfits for the equestrian for performance from top to bottom. Kerrits has perfected this look with style and innovation in colors that coordinate together. In the Spring 2009 collection, their new Gallop-On Horse Tee works perfectly with Kerrits Performance Tight.

 

“For under $100 you can have a complete Kerrits outfit that shows off your love of horses, is figure flattering and very comfortable to ride in,” said Kerri Kent, owner and designer of Kerrits Equestrian Apparel. “Our Performance tight has been a favorite for both adults and kids for many years. And while you are getting the tights, complete the look with a tee.”

 

Gallop on in Kerrits new feminine-shaped tee for Spring 2009. Sporting their exclusive equine design, you’ll love and feel great in 100% cotton that’s machine washable.

 

Pair it with Kerrits Klassic Performance Tight available in solids or houndstooth for unsurpassed comfort and ability to beat the heat by being lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking. This tight has slimming lines with no-chafe seaming.

 

Both the Gallop-On Horse Tee and Performance Tight are available for kids as well as adults. Each provide a perfect base for your equestrian wardrobe as core pieces to build on.

 

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.

Commemorative Painting of Teddy and Karen to be auctioned off at Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event

Proceeds to benefit USEF High Performance efforts.

LEXINGTON, Kentucky, April 24, 2009 — The bidding is now underway at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event for an original painting of Theodore O’Connor (Teddy) and Karen O’Connor on course at Rolex 2008.  Located in the Patron’s Tent, the silent auction will close 3:30 p.m. Sunday, with proceeds going to USEF High Performance efforts.

Created by acclaimed artist Patrick O’Brien, the 24” x 32” painting utilizes both traditional composition and typography in a pop art style that celebrates iconic figures such as Teddy. The painting was based on a photo taken by CLiX photographer Shawn Hamilton. Mr. O’Brien, Ms. Hamilton, and Pennfield Feeds sponsored the painting, so that 100% of the winning bid would go to help the USA be competitive on the international stage.

Interested bidders who can’t get to the Rolex Patron’s Tent may email bparise@pennfield.com by Saturday 6 p.m. to arrange for remote bidding by phone. The painting is valued at $3500, the opening bid was $800 and is quickly rising.

This silent auction is one of eight that Pennfield is sponsoring to benefit USEF programs, through the That’s a Promise Tour. For more information about Pennfield and the That’s a Promise Tour, please visit thatsapromisetour.com

About the Artist

Award-winning artist Patrick Reid O’Brien works in mixed media, creating compelling canvases in the pop art style that speak to the passion and intensity of the subject. Mr. O’Brien won his first juried competition at the age of six, and never looked back. He graduated with honors from St. Mary’s College of Maryland with a BA in Fine Art. While there, he studied oil painting under Thomas Rowe, a student of the realist school of Jaques Maroger from the Maryland Institute College of Art.

Mr. O’Brien was chosen as the official artist of the 300th anniversary of the Port of Baltimore, and his painting of the U.S. Capitol was recently honored by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. Coincidentally, Mr. O’Brien is the Great, Great, Great, Great Grandson of Thomas Ustick Walter, architect of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC.

Mr. O’Brien’s work is found in galleries, corporate and private collections around the world. His work is acclaimed in several sporting worlds, the most recent came in 2008 with the debut of his first equestrian sporting works at the Washington International Horse Show.

About the Photographer

Canadian native Shawn Hamilton graduated from The University of Toronto with a BSc in Computer Science. Soon established in database management in the advertising industry, her passion for horses and photography became impossible to keep in check any longer, and in 1984 CLiX Photography was born. In 1986 Ms. Hamilton’s work appeared on the cover of The Corinthian Horse Sport magazine and The Canadian Horsemen and her new career took off.

With coverage of the last five Olympic games under her belt, plus numerous World Equestrian Games and other international events, Ms. Hamilton recently expanded her focus to include equestrian travel. From wine tasting by horseback in South Africa to crossing the Andes from Chile to Argentina, Ms. Hamilton’s explorations have been published in word and image throughout the media. 

Today CLix photography can be found on the covers and throughout countless magazines such as Horse Illustrated, Horses USA, Equestrian Retailer, Equus, Practical Horsemen, Dressage Today, The Perfect Horse, and The Trail Rider. Ms. Hamilton has four non-fiction children’s books published by Scholastic Canada, and was the featured photographer in the 2004 and 2005 Hallmark horse calendars.

About Pennfield

Pennfield is a widely respected, family-owned feed company headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania that has been serving the Mid-Atlantic since 1919. Known for using only the finest feed ingredients and precision, state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, Pennfield has earned the trust of world-class trainers and competitors throughout the equine industry by guaranteeing 100% of its equine feeds are “fixed formulas,” meaning each lot is identical to the one that came before it. In 1996, Pennfield joined forces with Kentucky Equine Research and consequently merged tradition and technology. Pennfield's quality manufacturing and personal service combined with KER's state-of-the-art nutritional expertise gives Pennfield customers advanced equine nutrition and uncontested technical support. Recently, Pennfield was honored to be awarded “Official Feed of the USEF” status by the United States Equestrian Federation. For more information, please visit pennfield.com or call 800-995-0333.

Bettina Hoy Holds Dressage Lead At Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

A prelude to the Eventing World Championships of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY-April 24, 2009 - Bettina Hoy of Germany rode to a substantial lead today as dressage concluded at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Aboard Ringwood Cockatoo, she scored just 28.8 penalties, but that score only put her 3.5 points in front.

Lucinda Fredericks of Australia also rode Headley Britannia to an extraordinary score (32.3) to emphatically claim second. Buck Davidson, of Riegelsville, Pa., claimed third place on My Boy Bobby, scoring 39.0.

Tim Lips of the Netherlands, Thursday's leader on Concrex Oncarlos, ended up fourth (42.0).

The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, a part of the HSBC FEI ClassicsTM Series, will run a CCI4* and the 12th championship for the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation Pinnacle Cup, signifying the zenith in eventing competition in the United States. The event draws more than 100,000 spectators and millions more via worldwide telecasts including a one-hour special in the U.S. on NBC on Sunday, May 3.

Hoy, Fredericks and Davidson each have a family connection to the winner's circle at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. Hoy's husband, Andrew Hoy of Australia, won in 2006; Fredericks' husband, Clayton Fredericks, won in 2007; and Davidson's father, Bruce Davidson, won the World Championships here in 1978 and won Rolex Kentucky a record five times. Of these three former winners, only Bruce Davidson, 59, is competing this year, on Cruise Lion (28th place) and Jam (40th place).

Bettina Hoy said that she had scored a 28 once before on the striking gray gelding Ringwood Cockatoo, but it was at a three-star event, not a four-star. "This felt like the best test he's ever done," she said.

"We're a bit like an old married couple," said a Hoy, 46, about her relationship with Ringwood Cockatoo, 18, on whom she's competed internationally for a decade. "We know each other so well, and it's a nice feeling in the ring." 

Lucinda Fredericks, 43, made a similar comparison to her relationship with Headley Britannia, 16. The pair has already won two four-star events in England, at Badminton and Burghley. "'Brit' and I are like two old women who go in there to have a bit of fun. It was a delightful ride."

Fredericks noted that Headley Britannia, a chestnut Irish-bred mare who stands only 15.3 hands tall, "is obviously a very different horse from all the others around here, but she absolutely goes in the ring and does her very best."

With 22 foreign horses entered this year at Rolex Kentucky, most of them aiming for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Davidson's performance is especially significant. The only other American currently in the top 10 is Phillip Dutton, who's in 10th place on 2008 winner Connaught (47.0). Jolie Sexson, on Killian O'Connor, is 11th (47.3), just ahead of Corrine Ashton on Dobbin (47.5).

But this is My Boy Bobby's first four-star start. "I think we're going to find out tomorrow if he's a four-star horse," said Davidson when asked to evaluate the cross-country course designed by Mike Etherington-Smith of Great Britain. "He jumps as well as any horse, and I'd like to think I'll be close to the time. But we'll see." 

Fredericks said the she's "looking forward to riding it. I plan to go out there and go fast-without taking any undue risks."

Hoy declined to predict whether she'd keep her lead tomorrow. "Cockatoo doesn't owe me anything. I want him to go out and enjoy the course. Every competition he does is a real bonus to me," she said.

As the only four-star event in the Western Hemisphere, the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is the premier competition for the top horses and riders in eventing.  Past winners include U.S. Olympic Medalists David and Karen O'Connor, Kim Severson and Phillip Dutton, New Zealand's Blyth Tait and Nick Larkin, Pippa Funnell of Great Britain, and Andrew Hoy and Clayton Fredericks of Australia. 

The $350,000 Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing is awarded to any rider who wins the Rolex Kentucky, Mitsubishi Motors Badminton and Land Rover Burghley Four-Star Events in succession.  In 2003, Pippa Funnell of Great Britain became the first, and to date only, rider to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. 

Eventing fans will have the opportunity to watch live action from Rolex Kentucky on Pay-Per View webcasts on www.rk3de.org, featuring coverage of cross-country on April 25.  Free live coverage of the show jumping on April 26 will be available online at www.universalsports.com.

For more information on the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, please visit the Rolex Kentucky website at www.rk3de.org.

APPALOOSAS RETURN TO JACKSON FOR 62ND NATIONAL APPALOOSA SHOW

The 13-day Event will be held June 22–July 4 at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds

JACKSON, Miss.–The weather is warmer and days are longer—summer is just around the corner! Summer means the world’s most colorful equine is coming to Jackson, Miss.! The 62nd National Appaloosa Show & 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show will be held at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson, June 22-July 4. The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) would like to invite Appaloosa fans and general equine enthusiasts to join us and watch hundreds of Appaloosa horses from throughout the nation display their talent, versatility and color.

The National Appaloosa Show is the longest-running, single-breed horse show in the United States. Now spread around the world, the Appaloosa breed was rescued from obscurity by a handful of pioneer breeders whose first National Show, held two years after the end of World War II, drew 50 horses to a small fairgrounds in Lewiston, Idaho. The colorfully spotted Appaloosa is now consistently one of the top-10 favorite horse breeds in the country.

The first week of the 13-day event will focus on open and adult non-pro competition, followed by youth competitors showing off their skills in the second week. Spectators can expect to see Appaloosas performing in classes ranging from cutting and jumping to horse-against-horse races and halter.

Appaloosas will be competing for charity on Friday, June 26. The ApHC will be collecting cash and/or new, unwrapped toys as admittance for the Appaloosa Evening Performance on behalf of the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children. This is a wonderful opportunity to support Mississippi’s only hospital devoted to the care and treatment of ailing children, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.

The 62nd National Appaloosa Show & 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Youth Show isn’t just about competition—take a break from the show ring and go shopping at the 2009 Cowboy Way Trading Post in the Mississippi Trade Mart on the fairgrounds! The gift expo will feature thousands of items, including tack, fine jewelry, furniture, home décor, apparel, trucks, horse trailers and more. The Cowboy Way Trading Post will be open each day of the event from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For amazing deals, make a date to shop during the Moonlight Madness Sale, Friday, June 26, from 10 p.m. to midnight.

For more information about the National Appaloosa Show or any of these exciting events, visit www.appaloosa.com or call (208) 882-5578.

The Appaloosa Horse Club was established in 1938, with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing the Appaloosa breed. The ApHC has since registered more than 670,000 Appaloosas, which are known for their distinctive color, intelligence and even temperament. True to their reputation as an extremely versatile breed, Appaloosas can be found in nearly every discipline, including racing, endurance riding or serving as reliable family horses. The international breed registry is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, the heart of the Palouse region, the Appaloosa breed’s namesake and point of origin.  

Bettina Hoy Goes into Overall Lead After Dressage for Germany with Record Score

American Buck Davidson Leads the 2009 Rolex/USEF National Eventing Championship at the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event

By Joanie Morris

Lexington, KY – The American riders had some catching up to do after the first day of dressage at the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. The European riders swept the top three places after Thursday and the US riders returned on Friday to find only a little bit of room at the top of the leaderboard.

Germany’s Bettina Hoy wasn’t going to be bested in the main stadium at the Kentucky Horse Park, and the striking grey Irish Sport Horse, Ringwood Cockatoo, seems to continue to improve at 18 years old. The pair went first after the lunch break and put in a phenomenal effort, from the halts to the flying changes, to all the lateral work, Hoy really mastered what is proving to be a very difficult new CCI**** test.

“Cockatoo has been wonderful all these years, especially in this phase,” said Hoy. “He’s a bit like a professor. He excels in the test, he’s getting better and better as he’s getting older which is a nice feeling.”

On a 28.8, this pair achieved the lowest dressage score in the history of the Rolex Kentucky CCI****, and the best score of their career at the four-star level.

“I think I was lucky to go after the lunch break,” said Hoy of an arena that really effected some horses because of the atmosphere. “I don’t think that Cockatoo knew anyone was watching until they started clapping.”

Hoy’s husband Andrew won the 2006 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event on Master Monarch.

Hoy is well clear of second placed Lucinda Fredericks on her diminutive mare, Headley Britannia. The Australian rider and the 16-year-old Thoroughbred cross mare (Owned by Fredericks and her husband Clayton – who also won this event in 2007) does consistently good flying changes and can always be counted on for a good score. They finished on 32.3.

“Brit is very different than most of the horses on the eventing circuit,” said Fredericks. “ She has to work very hard to produce exhilarating work. I love riding her but I don’t really like schooling her as she doesn’t give you the greatest feeling and there are only so many flying changes you can do, which is the best part. Brit and I are like two old women, we go in an have a bit of fun and I trust her to behave.”

Both Ringwood Cockatoo and Headley Britannia are veteran CCI**** winners, however they are feeling some pressure from a new American horse on the proverbial block.

My Boy Bobby put in an awesome effort for Buck Davidson to be best for the US. They put in an accurate and very polished  performance to finish third going into Saturday’s cross country. Davidson was in England for most of last summer, and found Hoy and her dressage expertise very helpful to his riding.

“Bobby is a very easy horse to ride,” said Davidson. “He has a great brain. I want to thank Bettina for all her help last year. She changed my riding and my horses. But hopefully I can give them a run for their money the rest of the weekend.”

The 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse owned by Carl and Cassandra Segal looked very much at home at his first CCI****. The pair scored 39.0 off the strength of their accuracy, fantastic canter work, and overall quality.

Davidson, son of Eventing legend, Bruce (who is also competing this weekend and a previous winner) will get to test drive the course tomorrow when he rides the Segal’s BallyNoe Castle RM in the lead-off spot. A former winner of the Markham Trophy for the highest placed Young Rider at this competition, Davidson’s best finish here previously was in 2003, when he was fourth with Mystic Mike. Ironically, he was the highest placed American that year which meant he also won the Rolex/USEF National CCI**** Championship.

Cross country, run over Mike Etherington-Smith’s beautifully designed and challenging course begins at 10 am Saturday morning.

For complete results and a live feed please see: www.rk3de.org.

William Fox-Pitt is live in the Rolex Grand Slam, which offers $350,000 to any rider who can win the three most prestigious CCI**** events in the world (Badminton, Burghley and Rolex Kentucky) in any order in succession. Fox-Pitt won last year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials with Ballincoola, if he wins Rolex Kentucky he will head to Badminton in two weeks time to attempt to accomplish a feat only done once before. Fellow Brit, Pippa Funnell won the Rolex Grand Slam in 2003. Currently he lies sixth and ninth with Seacookie and Navigator respectively.

For the first year ever, the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event is part of the HSBC Classics Series. This series features $150,000 in prize money to the rider who accumulates the most points at the five global CCI****s. The series begins in Lexington and finishes in Pau, France in October. For more information, please visit: http://www.fei.org/Disciplines/Eventing/Pages/HSBCFEIClassics.aspx.

Television's star horse trainer Julie Goodnight Offers Free Spectator Tickets to CHA Centers

SALIDA, Colorado April 24, 2009 - Julie Goodnight (host of RFD-TV's Horse Master with Julie Goodnight, www.juliegoodnight.com) offers 4 free spectator tickets to each CHA Accredited Center with members who would like to attend a stop on her 2009 Clinic Tour (see below for precise dates and locations). Julie Goodnight travels to Massachusetts, Virginia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio, California, and Colorado during her 2009 travels. CHA Accredited Site Members listed on the organization's site as not just individual members, but as part of a fully accredited facility may call (800) 225-8827 or e-mail clinics@juliegoodnight.com to request tickets. Please include your Accredited Center's name, address and CHA identification when requesting tickets at least two weeks in advance of the clinic date.

Please note: No refunds will be given for prior purchases; no cash value. Free CHA tickets do not apply to the riding opportunities within the clinic. Additional discount tickets may be purchased at http://juliegoodnight.com/clinicreg.html#spectators

Each two-day clinic provides an opportunity for horse owners to ride with Goodnight and learn her Straightforward Horsemanship techniques (improving horsemanship skills and learning to be their horses' leaders on the ground and while riding). Audiences are also invited to watch and learn in a friendly environment for a nominal cost. Clinics are open to 10-15 riders ($400 per horse and rider pair) and unlimited audiences ($20 pre-order or $25 adult tickets at the door; $10 for youths 18 and under at the door).

"I'm really excited about all the great places my Clinic Tour will take me this year!" Goodnight says. "In addition to many of my favorite sites-I try to return to Hawaii and the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts each year-I'm visiting some new areas of the country. Virginia and Pennsylvania will be new stops for me. I've had requests for clinics from very enthusiastic riders and I am eager to work with the many horses and riders I'll meet across the country.

"Horsemanship clinics are a great opportunity for me to work up-close and personal with riders and their mounts. I love helping riders achieve their goals and have a more satisfying relationship with their horse. The sense of accomplishment and satisfaction they feel at the end of a clinic is all the thanks I need!"

Ride with Julie:

Julie's clinics are informative and personal. At each clinic, you'll have the opportunity to work with your horse under Julie's close supervision. You'll get the one-on-one attention you want to help you achieve your riding goals or overcome obstacles. Pre-registration is required. Bring your horse and work with Julie to improve your horsemanship. Stabling is available for a nominal fee; school horses are available at some clinic locales. Register to Ride with Julie now at http://juliegoodnight.com/clinicreg.html.

Be in the Audience: This is the best way to gain valuable, see-it-for-yourself training skills at an affordable cost. Don't have a horse? Spectators get the same personal attention and are included in the clinic. You'll be welcome to ask questions and get clarification then take the new info home to work with your horse. Come to watch, learn and network. Clinics run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Bring a chair, a notebook and all your questions. Lunch is available on site.

2009 Clinic Tour Dates:

April 25-26, 2009 

Campbell Springs Farm

12830 River Rd 

Chesterfield, VA 23838 

May 9-10, 2009 

RNR Ranch & Tack

2697 Nevers Dam Rd 

St Croix, WI 54024

May 16-17, 2009 

Tally Ho Farms

620 Franklin Church Rd 

Dillsburg, PA 17019 

May 30-31, 2009 

Wolf Creek Equestrian Centre

3684 S Bailey Rd 

North Jackson, OH 44451 

June 6-7, 2009 

Ironwood Equestrian Park

9625 Florin Rd 

Sacramento, CA 95829 

June 27-28, 2009 

Saddle Up! Foundation

11152 E Daley Circle 

Parker, CO 80134 

August 13-14 (Versatility Clinic) and again 15-16 (Horsemanship Clinic), 2009

Berkshire Equestrian Center 

40 Perry's Peak Rd 

Richmond, MA 01254 

Sept 26-27, 2009

4186 E Hwy 160 

Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 

More About Goodnight: 

Goodnight is an internationally respected trainer and clinician with experience in many types of training. She grew up riding ponies and horses on an Orlando farm and competed in hunter jumpers throughout her youth. Goodnight counts horses among her earliest friends; she spent many summer days hanging out in the horse pasture and studying how the horses moved and interacted. During her college days in New Mexico, Goodnight earned extra money by warming up Thoroughbreds on the race track. The cowgirl felt at home in the west and soon hit the trails and studying Western disciplines. Always the adventurer, she began leading riders through the Rocky Mountains. As a natural teacher, Goodnight decided to make horses her life's work-and to teach people how to work with horses safely and with kindness. Showing her dedication to teaching and safety, Goodnight earned her Master Instructor and Clinician ranking with the Certified Horsemanship Association (the association she continues to represent as International Spokesperson). She presents clinics and teaches people at horse expos around North America. She recently won Equine Affaire's Exceptional Equestrian Educator award-an award only presented three times in the well-known trade show's 15-year history.

Goodnight is now best known for her award-winning television show airing weekly on RFD-TV-Horse Master with Julie Goodnight. Through the show, Goodnight hopes to help all riders master their equestrian dreams and skills. As "The Horse Master," Goodnight shares the wisdom she's gained by reaching her master-level CHA status and encourages all horse people to become the leaders/masters their horses want and deserve. Natural horsemanship is founded on understanding horse behavior and the idea that horses look for leadership, direction and assurance that they're safe and acting appropriately. Goodnight strives to teach you how to master that ideal and emphasizes the importance of life-long learning.

Julie Goodnight is sponsored by Nutramax Laboratories, Circle Y Saddles, Spalding Labs, Troxel, and the Certified Horsemanship Association. Visit http://www.juliegoodnight.com and http://www.horsemaster.tv for more information about Julie Goodnight and her Horse Master television show. RFD-TV is available on DirecTV channel 345 and Dish channel 231 as well as cable outlets in the Northeast through Verizon; Nebraska, Michigan, Minnesota, and Tennessee through Charter; Georgia through ComSouth; Kentucky and New Mexico through Comcast. Visit http://www.rfdtv.com/ to find out how to view the channel in your area.

A service of The Whole Picture, LLC., http://www.wholepicture.org

The American Horse Council Joins Forces with Nutrena

The American Horse Council is pleased to announce that Nutrena has become a sponsor of the AHC.  This is a great opportunity for Nutrena to show their support of the American Horse Council, the horse industry’s unified voice in Washington, D.C.  “We are looking forward to working with Nutrena and we hope that together we can make great things happen for the horse industry in Washington,” said Jay Hickey, AHC President.

The American Horse Council works on issues in Washington that affect the horse industry both directly and indirectly.   As they celebrate their 40th anniversary, the impact and influence that the AHC has had on the horse industry is undeniable.  Many of the activities that you enjoy with your equines have been affected by the American Horse Council’s hard work and efforts to preserve the integrity of the horse industry.  A list of the last 25 years of accomplishments can be found at www.horsecouncil.org. 

Nutrena is one of the world's largest equine nutrition companies, feeding more than one million horses per day. It aims to help its customers achieve optimum nutrition, exceptional health and world-class performance from their animals. Nutrena has been providing superior nutrition for domestic animals for more than 80 years.  “We at Nutrena are excited to be a sponsor of the American Horse Council.  It provides a wonderful opportunity for us to participate in the continued growth of the horse industry, and to support the work of the AHC, both as a voice of the industry in Washington and its continued support of the care and well being of horses, as well as through the development of the Unwanted Horse Coalition.,” said Deb Correll, Brand Manager of Nutrena.  To learn more about Nutrena visit www.nutrenaworld.com.

With their combined knowledge in the horse industry, Nutrena and the American Horse Council will work together to promote the best interest of the horse industry.  For more information on becoming an Individual Member or a Commercial Sponsor of the American Horse Council, please email Bridget Harrison at bharrison@horsecouncil.org or visit www.horsecouncil.org/membership.html.

Alltech Introduces a New Brand of Horse Power: Lifeforce Formula

[Lexington, KY] – Alltech, a global leader in animal health and nutrition and the first-ever title sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, proudly introduced Lifeforce™ Formula today during the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.

Lifeforce Formula is a once-a-day natural nutritional supplement designed for all horses at every stage of life. Daily supplementation helps create an ideal digestive environment, maintain peak body and muscular condition, improve hoof health and coat condition, and promote overall healthy growth.

 

“For more than 25 years, Alltech has provided scientifically-proven, reliable, and fully traceable natural solutions to the equine industry,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech. “All of these technologies are harnessed in the power of Lifeforce.”

 

Lifeforce Formula boosts overall health for times when the horse is vulnerable to a variety of ailments and injuries. It is also formulated to fortify horses preparing for or recovering from medical treatments. 

Broodmares and stallions alike benefit from the technologies in Lifeforce for successful mating, smooth gestation, and safe delivery. Furthermore, the antioxidant-rich formula is ideal for nursing foals as they face immunity challenges.

“Whether your best friend is a champion or a family pet, our team developed Lifeforce to help him withstand all the stresses of life from first step to happy ending,” said Dr. Lyons.

A Kentucky Proud product, Lifeforce Formula is currently manufactured at Alltech’s production facility in Nicholasville, Ky., and is available in 5 kg pails, which provide a 90-day supply. For more information, please visit http://www.alltechadvantage.com.  

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held in Lexington, KY, USA from September 25 - October 10, 2010, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Held outside of Europe for the first time, the 16-day competition involving 600 riding competitors and 700 horses from more than 60 countries is expected to be attended by as many as 600,000 spectators and viewed on television by an international audience exceeding 460 million. 

Nominations are in Progress for NARHA’s Prestigious 2009 Regional and National Awards

All participants at NARHA centers are unique and deserve recognition, but as we all know, some just shine. So every year NARHA celebrates some especially outstanding equestrians, equines, instructors and volunteers. Right now NARHA centers all over North America and beyond are nominating their own special equines and people.

 

Since nominations close on June 15th, members, and participants alike are working with center leaders to make sure their special people and equines are not left out.

All winners will be recognized at the 2009 NARHA National Conference and Annual Meeting Awards Banquet in Fort Worth, Texas: Saturday November 21. 

 

NARHA's annual award descriptions and nomination forms are now on the 2009 NARHA National Conference web page. www.narha.org/Conference/2009/Conference2009AwardsNominations.asp

PRIEFERT RANCH EQUIPMENT JOINS QUARTERFEST

America’s Horse, April 24, 2009 – The American Quarter Horse Association is pleased to announce the addition of Priefert Ranch Equipment to the list of QuarterFest sponsors. For horses, cattle, goats or dogs, Priefert Manufacturing leads the way in quality livestock handling equipment. Still family owned, Priefert Ranch Equipment is truly “Built by Ranchers, for Ranchers.”

 

From squeeze chutes to roping chutes, from box stalls to walkers, from pipe-rail fencing to panels, from dog kennels to hog feeders, Priefert has it all. The company is providing arena panels for the QuarterFest trail and ranch center. Come see the Priefert equipment in action at QuarterFest and learn how Priefert can meet all your livestock handling equipment needs. Visit http://priefert.com/ for more information.

 

“AQHA is proud to have Priefert join our team of QuarterFest sponsors,” said Karen Latta, AQHA executive director of business development. “The Priefert brand is well known and respected by horsemen, and we are excited that our QuarterFest attendees will get to see the Priefert equipment in action.

 

“Priefert has a diverse line of products, and I encourage everyone to stop by the company’s booth at QuarterFest to see how they can help with your individual needs.”

 

To avoid long lines, get your QuarterFest tickets online now. Bring your printed ticket to the entry gate, and we’ll let you right in. Get your tickets now at www.aqha.com/quarterfest. All major credit and debit cards accepted.

 

QuarterFest: A Celebration of the American Quarter Horse is a three-day, education-packed celebration where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, May 1-3 for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam, Breyer, La Cense Montana, Priefert Ranch Equipment and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

 

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.

2009 Showplace Spring Spectacular Horse Show Series Prize List Now Available Online

Wayne, IL - April 24, 2009 - Showplace Productions is pleased to announce that their prize list for the 2009 Showplace Spring Spectacular Horse Show Series is now available. It can be found online, and prize lists have been mailed out. The scenic Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, IL, will host the 2009 Showplace Spring Spectacular Horse Show Series on June 2-7 and June 9-14, 2009. 

 

The two weeks of top competition bring riders from around the country to the Chicago suburbs for great prize money, superb footing and course design, and a wonderful show experience. Exhibitors will have the chance to relax and get to know each other during the various parties, such as ice cream parties, pancake breakfasts, luncheons, cocktail parties, and exhibitor get-togethers during the two weeks. In week two, there will be live bands at the exhibitor parties. VIP tables in the grand prix ring tent will also be available.

 

The 2009 Showplace Spring Spectacular Horse Show Series carries a "5" Jumper rating. The highlight classes for the open jumpers include the $30,000 and the $50,000 Grand Prix events on each Saturday afternoon. Open jumper riders can also compete for more prize money in the $10,000 Welcome Stake classes held each Thursday.

 

Offering some of the best prize money for junior and amateur riders in the country, the Showplace Spring Spectacular series will hold the $20,000 High Junior/Amateur Jumper Classic on the final Sunday of the series, and a $10,000 classic for the division is held the first week. The Low Junior/Amateur Jumpers will be able to compete for $17,500 in prize money in their classics over the two weeks. The Children's Jumpers and Adult Jumpers will each have a $10,000 classic on Sunday, June 14, while the Low Children's/Adult Jumpers will have a $10,000 classic each week.

 

Hunter riders will have a vast variety of classes and divisions in which to compete as well. The highlight event of the series is the $15,000 ASG Software Solutions/USHJA International Hunter Derby on Tuesday, June 9. There will be $60,000 in prize money awarded for all of the hunter classics held over the two week competition.

More information and new announcements will follow on this year's exciting Showplace Spring Spectacular Horse Shows. For further information on Showplace Productions, please visit www.showplaceproductions.com. 

Open House at HEAL - Human-Equine Alliances for Learning with Leigh Shambo, MSW, LMHC

Centralia, Washington – Human-Equine Alliances for Learning (HEAL) and Leigh Shambo, MSW, LMHC, invite the public to visit their facility at 361 Yates Road in Chehalis for an Open House on Saturday, May 9th, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The open house at HEAL is free and open to all.  This event offers the public an opportunity to learn about equine-facilitated psychotherapy and learning (EFP/L).  The HEAL approach teaches people core relationship and emotional wellness skills, called “relationship keys”, through work with horses.  Founder Leigh Shambo says the approach has a lot to offer for healing psychological disorders, including PTSD, as well as being an avenue of personal growth and exploration for many people.  It’s also helpful to equestrians seeking greater naturalness and feel with horses.

The Open House includes informative live demonstrations of EFP/L, using the HEAL approach of “relationship keys”, as well as facility tours, presentations and refreshments.  Unique demonstrations will be offered in HEAL’s covered arena at 2-hour intervals beginning at 10:00 with Separateness & Connection (Boundaries) followed at noon by The Inner Language of Relationship: What Are You Telling Yourself?.  The demonstrations will be repeated again at 2:00 and 4:00.  Literature and research studies about the field of EFP/L will be available at the Open House and are available by request from HEAL.  

ABOUT Human-Equine Alliances for Learning (HEAL):  HEAL is a non-profit organization offering programs of interest to providers of mental health services, to equestrians and to individuals who are seeking personal growth. 

For therapists, counselors, physicians and social service providers, HEAL Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy is an experiential "power boost" for clients in a regular therapy or treatment program. 

Equestrians of every experience level are empowered by increased mind-body awareness. Very safe, very gentle, highly effective.  Emotional wisdom becomes horsemanship magic.

HEAL programs offer individuals life-expanding opportunities to explore energy awareness and the power of intention, choice and creativity in all relationships.  HEAL programs require no prior experience with horses.

ABOUT Leigh Shambo, MSW, LMHC:  Leigh Shambo, the founder of HEAL, is an educator and licensed mental health counselor in Washington State.    She incorporates her lifelong work as a horse trainer and equestrian coach into her practice; including horses in her therapeutic strategies.  Leigh has been referred to as equal parts horse whisperer, professional therapist & spiritual guide.  She is well known for her innovative work in the field of equine-facilitated psychotherapy and learning, and is regularly invited to teach and present at mental health conferences and therapeutic equestrian centers across the US and Europe.   

For further information please contact:

Leigh Shambo, MSW, LMHC

Therapist and Educator

leigh@humanequinealliance.org

(360) 266-0778

www.humanequinealliance.org 

Former Karen Healey Student Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum Wins Third World Cup Championship

Current Student Michelle Morris Competes at Varsity Equestrian National Championships with Georgia Bulldogs Equestrian Team

 

Westlake Village, CA - April 22, 2009 - Trainer Karen Healey has taught some very talented young equestrians throughout her career, and this past weekend two of those riders showed in national and world championship competitions. This year's Rolex FEI World Cup champion, Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, began her career in California and trained with Healey as a junior rider. Current Karen Healey student Michelle Morris rides for the University of Georgia's equestrian team and was part of the team's national championship win this weekend.

 

Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum is currently the number one ranked rider in the world competing for Germany, but at one time she lived in California and trained for about six years in the Equitation and Junior Jumpers with Karen Healey. Michaels-Beerbaum showed her once in a lifetime horse Shutterfly in Las Vegas, NV, this past weekend for the Rolex FEI World Cup Finals and swept the competition.  This was the rider's third year winning the World Cup championship and although she competes for Germany, she still considers herself 50% American and enjoys the support of her American family and friends.

 

Karen Healey traveled to Las Vegas to cheer on her former student this weekend, and was very proud of her big win.  "It was fabulous," Healey smiled. "I would like to think that I did something, but she did most of this herself. I mean, I think I gave her a very nice foundation, but her determination and mind set and just the nerve control and all the rest of it, she did all of that herself over the years."

 

"Meredith just lost her father. He passed away about a month ago," Healey continued. "I had a long history with him and her mother, and I still am very close with her mother, so it was very special."

 

Healey still stays in touch with Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, speaks to her often, and has two of her sale horses at her farm in California right now.  "I talk to her at least once a month and sometimes more," Healey stated. "And I will say that her first grand prix that she won over there, she called me immediately. We have quite a good relationship, and I feel very privileged to have been a part of her career."

 

Another successful student of Karen Healey's is Michelle Morris of La Canada, CA.  Morris is one of Healey's current students and rides as a freshman on the University of Georgia's NCAA equestrian team. The 2009 Varsity Equestrian National Championships were held in Waco, TX, this past weekend, and the Georgia Bulldogs were the overall national champions. Morris rode in the Equitation on the Flat division for the UGA team.

 

Karen Healey commented on Morris riding on the college team, stating, "I used to tell them all the time, I'm not going to ride these horses for you, you are going to have to ride horses that I haven't prepared. That is the hardest thing with the school competition is just being able to get on horses that are maybe not as nice as they are used to, not as prepared."

 

Healey added, "I think that Michelle took away a lot and learned a lot. She was always a good student and always tried really hard. They still have a horse with me, and when she gets back she will ride a little bit over the summer."

 

Karen Healey congratulates both Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and Michelle Morris for their individual successes this weekend and is proud to have contributed to their riding careers.

 

Karen Healey Stables will compete this week at the Flintridge Children's Horse Show, April 24-26.  For more information please visit www.karenhealeystables.com.