Kevin Myers joins the EasyCare Inc. Management Team

(Tucson, AZ)

EasyCare Inc. is pleased to announce the expansion of the senior management team to include Kevin Myers as the Director of Marketing and Administration, effective March 1, 2010.

EasyCare hires Kevin Myers to lead all marketing activities of the organization and to oversee the customer service department. “Kevin is highly skilled in various areas relating to relationship management, team building and strategic planning.” said President and CEO Garrett Ford. “We are very fortunate to add such a passionate and skilled individual to our team. Kevin will play a vital role in managing the marketing and publicity of our brands and accommodating the tremendous growth we are experiencing in the natural horse care industry nationally and internationally.”

Mr. Myers joins EasyCare from Ballet Arizona where he has held the position of Executive Director since 2004. In that time, Ballet Arizona retired its accumulated debt; received a $6.5M bond issue from the City of Phoenix for new rehearsal and administration facilities; built a cash reserve of more than $900,000 and increased earned revenue by more than 20% per year for four years. As the administrative leader of Ballet Arizona, Kevin worked with a staff of 21 people in a complex business model that relies on revenue from ten fundraising, membership and earned revenue streams.

“I am very excited to join Garrett Ford and the EasyCare team.” said Kevin Myers. “I have spent more than 20 years working in the non-profit management sector. Many people don’t know that I have also been actively competing in wilderness endurance horse riding since 1994. EasyCare has unveiled a new equine product line-up that is changing the evolution of natural hoof care in ways we could not have anticipated. I’m very excited by the opportunity to be part of that.”

“EasyCare will also soon be launching a new training platform that will allow the retail network to gain a broader and deeper understanding of the EasyCare products.” said Garrett Ford of the new technology built by 3point5. “Trained retailers will be empowered to give the best guidance and advice to make the customer experience consistently successful.”

What began in 1970 with the invention of the Easyboot has since grown into a full line of hoof boots and natural hoof care products that protect the hoof, allow horses to cover rough terrain, act as a spare tire in case of a lost shoe and aid in the treatment of laminitis and other hoof problems. EasyCare’s hoof boot brands include the Easyboot, Easyboot Glove, Easyboot Glue-On, Boa Horse Boot, Old Mac’s and EasySoaker.

Contact EasyCare Inc. at 1-800-447-8836 or 520-297-1900 or www.easycareinc.com
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/easycare See also www.3point5.com

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL - January 28, 2010 - The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is pleased to welcome their week three title sponsor, Nespresso. Along with their weekly title sponsorship, Nespresso is the title sponsor of the $55,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes on Saturday, January 30, at 7 p.m. in the International Arena, and the $75,000 Nespresso Grand Prix, CSI 2*, on Sunday, January 31, at 1 p.m.

The $55,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes puts a team of 10 women against 10 men in a three-phase competition of a speed round, match race, and six-bar class. The women were victorious last year and will be out to defend their title, while the men will try to win their first competition.

Frederic Levy, President of Nespresso USA, Inc., believes that the relationship between Nespresso and the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival is a good fit. He stated, "Nespresso has a large Club Member base in South Florida, so it was only natural for us to enter our third year of sponsorship at the nearby International Polo Club and renew our partnership at WEF this season, providing us a with great opportunity to further build Nespresso's visibility in the community and surrounding area."


He went on to say, "Wellington is becoming known as the Equestrian capital of North America where ultimate competitors meet in the ring and on the polo field. They are the best of the best in the world, and they expect and deserve the best coffee."

In order to provide the best coffee to riders at the FTI WEF, Nespresso is the official coffee at the International Club and the White Horse Tavern. Levy added, "Visitors and competitors can enjoy the new 'Oasis Café' serving Nespresso and have a hands-on demonstration and shop at our pop-up boutique."

The Oasis Café is located at the end of vendor row near the entrances to the International Arena and Mogavero Ring.

Along with their presence at the FTI WEF in Wellington, Nespresso has increased their presence in the local community. Levy said, "Nespresso is looking forward to further establishing itself in South Florida and building the momentum for the highly anticipated spring opening of the Nespresso Boutique at 1111 Lincoln Road in South Beach. Engaging such a discerning audience at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival is another step in Nespresso's continued pursuit to provide the ultimate coffee experience in Miami and around the world."


About Nestlé Nespresso S.A.
Nestlé Nespresso S.A., the worldwide pioneer and market leader in highest-quality premium portioned coffee, introduces consumers to the world's finest Grand Cru coffees to be enjoyed in the comfort of their own homes and savored outside the home, in locations such as gourmet restaurants, upscale hotels, luxury outlets and offices.

The Nespresso offer focuses on its unique Trilogy, the unmatched combination of exceptional coffee, smart and stylish coffee machines and personalized customer service. Together, these three elements deliver moments of pure indulgence - the Nespresso Ultimate Coffee Experience.

Headquartered in Paudex, Switzerland with more than 3,900 employees, Nestlé Nespresso S.A. sells products in more than 50 countries directly to its customers. At the end of 2008, it operated a global retail network of more than 157 exclusive boutiques in key cities around the world. For a third year, it was named the fastest growing brand within the Nestlé Group and one of its "billionaire brands", achieving in 2008 revenue surpassing CHF 2 billion for the first time and maintaining an annual growth rate of more than 30 percent since 2000.

For more information, visit www.nespresso.com.





The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Lainie Wimberly and Theory Win Low Hunter Division Sponsored By The Sanctuary During First Week of 2010 WEF

Wellington, FL (January 28, 2010) – Lainie Wimberly and Theory, a Warmblood owned by Cathy Zicherman’s La Bagatelle Farm, finished the first weekend of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival in the winner’s circle, cruising to victory in the Low Hunter 2’9” division sponsored by The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Ocala. Wimberly and Theory earned a gift certificate to the world-class therapy and rehabilitation center for their win.
Wimberly, who is based out of Brigadoon Show Stables in North Salem, New York, was thrilled with the first weekend of the world-class show circuit. “We had a really wonderful first week, everything went smoothly and we are really happy to be showing here again. All of my clients enjoyed themselves and we were really pleased with all of the improvements to the show grounds,” Wimberly said. “We had a great week as we were champions in three divisions and reserve in one. I had quite a few horses to show and the starters at the in-gates really helped to make our days go smoothly and enabled us to get from one ring to the next promptly.”
Wimberly showed Theory in the Low Hunter 2’9” division while owner Zicherman showed him in the Low Hunter 2’6” division. “Cathy and Theory were also champions in their division,” Wimberly said. “Cathy has really done everything right with Theory, and has taken her time bringing him along. It definitely paid off for her this week as everything came together for them. We were really thrilled.”
Wimberly thanked The Sanctuary for sponsoring their division and said she looks forward to finding out more about the therapy and rehabilitation center. Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary, congratulated Wimberly on her win. “We are happy for Lainie, Cathy and Theory and look forward to getting to know them,” McDuffee said. “The Sanctuary features some of the most advanced conditioning and rehab equipment in the world and top performance horses such as Theory compete in a very physically demanding sport which means they often need extra attention to keep them competing at their peak.”
The Sanctuary’s advanced conditioning and rehab equipment helps equine athletes in all disciplines stay fit, avoid injury, and recover faster and more completely from injuries they might experience when competing in intense and physically demanding sports. To see a complete list of The Sanctuary’s state-of-the-art equipment, visit their website at www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com.

Rolex Watch U.S.A. Unveils New Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Logo

Lexington, KY -- January 28, 2010 -- Rolex Watch U.S.A., title sponsor of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, has recently unveiled a new logo in celebration of this renowned competition. A longstanding supporter of premier sporting events worldwide, Rolex creates distinctive logos to celebrate its title sponsorships.
A simple yet sophisticated design, the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event logo uses bold typeface in signature Rolex green to prominently display the event name. A silhouette of horse and rider leaping over an obstacle adorns the logo's left side. The obstacle, represented by a gold bar, is emblazoned with four stars paying homage to Rolex Kentucky's status as the only Four Star event in the Americas.
Robin Cravens, President of Equestrian Events, Inc., the organizing body for Rolex Kentucky, states: "We are most pleased that Rolex Watch U.S.A. has presented to us this specially designed logo to identify the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event throughout the world. The long-standing and continuing partnership between Rolex Watch U.S.A. and Equestrian Events, Inc. to put on the best Three-Day Event possible is exemplified in this logo. We look forward to using it for many years to come."
For more information or to purchase tickets to the 2010 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, being held April 22-25 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, please visit the Rolex Kentucky website at www.rk3de.org. Orders may be made online by clicking the Buy Tickets Online link or by selecting Ticket Information on the left hand menu and then Order Form at the bottom of the list. Completed forms can be returned by via mail or fax (859-254-5116) to Equestrian Events, Inc. To place phone orders call 859-254-8123. To receive a printed brochure, please send name and mailing address to EEI at P.O. Box 12110, Lexington, KY 40580-2110. Complete ticket option information is provided under Ticket Information on the website and in the brochure.
Rolex Kentucky 2010 will serve not only as the primary U.S. Selection Trial for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) in September, but also as the World Equestrian Games Eventing Test Event. In addition, World Equestrian Games Test Events, named Kentucky Cup events, for Dressage and Show Jumping will be held prior to, during and immediately following Rolex Kentucky. The Rolex Kentucky website also provides a schedule of all events, pricing and ticket information.

Editors: The Rolex Kentucky Event Logo is trademarked. Use of the logo is restricted and governed by guidelines published by Rolex Watch U.S.A., Inc. Application for use may be requested through Equestrian Events, Inc., P.O. Box 12110, Lexington, KY 40580-2110, (859) 233-2362, (859) 254-5116 (fax), eeiusa@windstream.net.

Horse breeders’ seminar Jan. 31 in Louisville

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 27, 2010) – The University of Kentucky Equine Initiative and the Kentucky Quarter Horse Association are partnering for a third year to bring Kentucky horse owners and breeders an educational seminar. The Kentucky Quarter Horse Association’s third annual Breeders’ Seminar, which is open to owners of all breeds of horses, will be held Jan. 31 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Phillips Lane in Louisville. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.
The seminar features guest speakers who will touch on many different topics related to the horse industry. Those topics include a discussion about the horse owner of the future; pasture management; marketing; health programs for the young growing horse; orthopedics; managing the breeding horse during the show season; and an update from the Kentucky state veterinarian.
UK Equine Undergraduate Studies Director Bob Coleman said the Kentucky Quarter Horse Association’s Breeders’ Seminar is a great opportunity for horse owners of all breeds to learn new information about breeding and raising horses.
“We have a tremendous resource of people who are leaders in the horse industry and this seminar allows horse owners the opportunity to learn from them,” he said.
Registration is $25 and will be accepted up through the morning of the event. For questions about the seminar, please call 859-257-9451. For hotel reservations, please contact the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 800-633-8723 or 502-367-2251. For more information, visit the Kentucky Quarter Horse Association’s Web site at http://www.kyqha.com.

USEF Names List of Riders from Which to Chose CSIO Wellington Team

From the USEF Show Jumping Department

Lexington, KY - The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) has announced the 10 riders who have been approved for selection to represent the United States at the CSIO Wellington presented by CN. The $75,000 Nations Cup team competition will take place under the lights at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL on Friday, March 5. 10

These riders were selected based on their ranking on the January 22, 2010 Rolex/USEF Show Jumping Ranking List. Closer to the date of the competition, four horse/rider combinations will be selected to represent the United States in the only Nations Cup held annually in the United States.

The following 10 riders have been approved:

McLain Ward
Lauren Hough
Richard Spooner
Mario Deslauriers
Ashlee Bond
Kent Farrington
Rich Fellers
Hillary Dobbs
Charlie Jayne
Margie Engle

For more information, please contact Lizzy Chesson at: lchesson@usef.org. For information about the Rolex/USEF Show Jumping Ranking List please see: http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/breedsdisciplines/discipline/alljumping/sjComputerList.aspx.

To attend the CSIO Wellington and cheer on the American team, please visit: http://www.equestriansport.com/nationscup.html.



The vision of the United States Equestrian Federation® is to provide leadership
for equestrian sport in the United States of America by promoting the pursuit
of excellence from the grassroots to the Olympic Games, based on a
foundation of fair, safe competition and the welfare
of its human and equine athletes.

Tami Hoag Named Celebrity Hostess for Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center's Benefit Auction Dinner & Dance

Loxahatchee, FL-January 28, 2010 - Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (VTRC) is pleased to announce that bestselling mystery writer Tami Hoag will be the celebrity hostess for this year's Benefit Auction Dinner & Dance. This annual fundraising event will be held on Friday, February 19, 2010, at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, FL. Hoag is a professional dressage rider and has also written 14 New York Times Bestsellers, including her newest novel, Deeper Than The Dead.

"Tami has always been a VTRC supporter. We are honored to have her step up her support as our celebrity hostess," noted VTRC Founder and Executive Director Ruth Menor.

Hoag recently declared her professional status at the beginning of January, and will begin competing in Grand Prix classes with Bacchus de Light in February after an 11-city book tour for Deeper Than The Dead. She is most well known for novels such as Still Waters Dark Horse, Kill the Messenger, and The Alibi Man. Hoag is a member of the "Divas," which includes three other authors that made the change from successful romance novelist careers to writing thrillers at about the same time. She is a very active member of the equestrian community and has included parts of that lifestyle in her novels.

The 2010 Benefit Auction Dinner & Dance will be an exciting event, featuring the addition of an Argentinean Asado to the event's "Gone Riding" theme. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in the "So You Think You Can Ride" Mechanical Bull Riding Contest. The contest includes a team auction, so come ready to support your favorite celebrity rider.

The live auction items at this year's event will include the "Polo Experience" package, tickets to the 2010 World Equestrian Games, and a package from Lazcar International. The silent auction will include gift certificates for restaurants, theater performances, and spa packages. Tables will go quickly for the 2010 Benefit Auction Dinner & Dance; to purchase tickets please call 561-792-9900 or visit www.vinceremos.com/benefit.html.

VTRC is a nonprofit organization based in Loxahatchee, FL, that provides recreational and therapeutic riding instruction to people of all ages with varying developmental, physical, and psychological disabilities. The organization, founded in 1982, assists more than 350 adults and children every year, helping them gain a sense of accomplishment, greater independence, and a higher quality of life. The VTRC has received a "Premier Accreditation" rating from the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).

Countdown to Horse Industry Survey Deadline

Countdown to the AHP Horse Industry Survey deadline and we are within a few hundred of a new goal. Yes, you all helped to reach the initial goal, but the numbers keep adding up and the more the merrier by Feb. 1.

www.horsesurvey.org

Thanks Everyone!

HORSE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION FACILITY, EQUINE PROTECTION OF NORTH AMERICA (E.P.O.N.A), ANNOUNCES KAREN BISHOP TO JOIN 2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Epping, NH – January 28, 2010 – E.P.O.N.A. (Equine Protection of North America), a non-profit, 501(c)(3) rescue and rehabilitation facility for abused and neglected horses, today announced Karen Bishop to join its 2010 Board of Directors. Bishop owns and operates Linden Woods Farm Equestrian Center in Durham, NH. Linden Woods Farm is a family run business and offers boarding, lessons, training, clinics, summer camps and horse shows. It is home to several talented trainers as well as the winter training center for the Dover Mounted Police. With Bishop’s vast knowledge of the equestrian industry, she was a perfect fit to join the E.P.O.N.A. Board of Directors. E.P.O.N.A. is home to 11 horses rescued from slaughter, euthanasia, foreclosure or abuse.

Bishop has fifteen years of consulting experience in software development, systems administration and computer operations for companies like Staples, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare and U.S. Filter. She also has over ten years manufacturing and materials management experience with a large defense contractor and has managed and developed staff of up to sixty-five employees, including low and mid-level supervisors.

“Karen Bishop brings a wealth of expertise to E.P.O.N.A.,” said Catherine Blake, President of E.P.O.N.A., “She not only brings horse experience, but has firsthand knowledge on successful farm management from founding Linden Woods Farm in Durham, N.H. As a high tech and manufacturing executive, Bishop had a dream to buy land, build a horse farm and run a successful equine program for competitors and families alike, and she’s done just that very successfully. We welcome her advice and the best practices she brings to our Board of Directors at E.P.O.N.A.”

“I'm looking forward to sharing any experience that I have that may help E.P.O.N.A. continue to do the great work they have done in caring for neglected and abused horses,” said Bishop. “I hope other horse owners will join me as well in playing some small part in the care of these animals.”

For more information on E.P.O.N.A., or how to make a donation, visit http://www.eponarescue.org/index.html.
To find out how to volunteer at E.P.O.N.A., please visit our online volunteer page for more information.
Visit E.P.O.N.A.’s Facebook Fan Page or Twitter Account to stay current with all the latest information about the horses, volunteer and donation opportunities and events.
For hi-res images of E.P.O.N.A., visit E.P.O.N.A. on Flikr.

About E.P.O.N.A.:
E.P.O.N.A. is a State Certified Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation Facility. E.P.O.N.A. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization dedicated to the betterment and welfare of horses that have been abused and neglected. E.P.O.N.A. is based in Epping, NH and relies on the generous and heartfelt support from its volunteers, sponsors and donors to provide care and comfort to the equine residents until they can be adopted out to loving families. http://www.eponarescue.org/index.html

ANDIS INTRODUCES THE POWER DE-SHEDDER+™ FOR HORSES

Sturtevant, WI (January 27, 2010) – Andis Company introduces the Power
De-Shedder+™, a comb with a dark red handle that removes the loose hair to reduce
shedding up to 90%. Turn it on, and it vibrates while combing through the horse’s hair,gently massaging the horse with its powerful motor. The new tool is an addition to Andis' Endurance line

“Both horse owners and groomers will appreciate our new Power De-Shedder+™,”
says Fred Koeller, Vice President of Marketing at Andis Company. “It is a revolutionaryway to reduce shedding, and any animal will enjoy the extra attention from the soothing massage.”

The Power De-Shedder+™ is battery operated with two AA batteries, which are
sold separately. The handle has a textured soft touch finish for a non-slip, comfortable
grip.

Andis Company, a family held business founded in 1922, is a leading manufacturer
of handheld tools to trim, cut, curl, straighten and dry hair. The company’s products are purchased worldwide by stylists and barbers, consumers, hotels, motels, resorts, small animal groomers and large animal groomers and shearers. To find a local distributor, callthe company at 800-558-9441 or visit their Web site at www.andis.com.

HORSE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION FACILITY, EQUINE PROTECTION OF NORTH AMERICA (E.P.O.N.A), ANNOUNCES WINNER OF LOGO CONTEST AND UNVEILS NEW LOGO DESIGN

Epping, NH – January 26, 2010 – E.P.O.N.A. (Equine Protection of North America), a non-profit, 501(c)(3) rescue and rehabilitation facility for abused and neglected horses, today announced Jared Laham, Founder and Creative Director of The Solid Studios, as the winner of its recent logo redesign contest. The logo redesign contest was open to the entire New Hampshire graphic design community in the fall of 2009 and concluded in late November. E.P.O.N.A. saw a large and diverse amount of designs entered into its contest, but felt Laham’s design captured E.P.ON.A.’s overall message. E.P.O.N.A. is home to 13 horses rescued from slaughter, euthanasia, foreclosure or abuse.

After Laham heard about the logo redesign contest, he began to research the organization and its goals to better understand the concepts needed to communicate through this new piece of identity. He began to develop and refine a handful of logo ideas that supported E.P.O.N.A.’s goals. When notified that he was the winner of the contest, Laham was excited and honored to have helped an organization with such a great cause.

"When I began this process, one of the things that resonated with me was that the volunteers support the horses and the horses provide love and support to its volunteers,” commented Laham. “There is a balanced relationship of mutually-beneficial care and a direct emotional connection between humans and horses. I wanted this logo to bring that message forward and show the strength, support and professionalism of the E.P.O.N.A. organization."

Laham is a graphic designer from Portsmouth, NH with a background in print and interactive design. The Solid Studios, founded in 2006, is Laham’s most recent venture. Its services include branding, interface design, web design, flash animation, web development and art direction. A Massachusetts native, Laham received his B.A. in Studio Art and Graphic Design from Salve Regina University in Rhode Island.

For more information on E.P.O.N.A., or how to make a donation, visit http://www.eponarescue.org/index.html.
To find out how to volunteer at E.P.O.N.A., please visit our online volunteer page for more information.
Visit E.P.O.N.A.’s Facebook Fan Page or Twitter Account to stay current with all the latest information about the horses, volunteer and donation opportunities and events.
For hi-res images of E.P.O.N.A., visit E.P.O.N.A. on Flikr.

About E.P.O.N.A.:
E.P.O.N.A. is a State Certified Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation Facility. E.P.O.N.A. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization dedicated to the betterment and welfare of horses that have been abused and neglected. E.P.O.N.A. is based in Epping, NH and relies on the generous and heartfelt support from its volunteers, sponsors and donors to provide care and comfort to the equine residents until they can be adopted out to loving families. http://www.eponarescue.org/index.html

Celebrating with Elk

(North Powder, Oregon) Ethel Laurence, a resident of La Grande, Oregon, knew exactly what she wanted to do for her birthday. Turning 83 years young January 23, 2010, Ethel told her daughter visiting from Portland area, she wanted to visit the elk. That is exactly what she did!

“I had been wanting to see these elk, but couldn’t find anyone to take me”, relayed Ethel. Her daughter continued, “There was really only one thing she wanted to do for her 83rd birthday, and that was come see these elk and meet the horses.”

This past Saturday, T&T Wildlife Tours were able to make Ethel’s birthday wish come true. Located just west of North Powder at the Anthony Creek feeding site, T&T offers tours every weekend through the end of February. “We were so happy to meet Ethel, and learn that we were part of her birthday wish,” commented Susan Triplett, co-owner of T&T Wildlife Tours. Triplett continued, “It was a beautiful, mild weather day, and both the elk, along with Waylan and Jed – the horses - were happy to meet her.”

Miss Laurence summed up her experience by saying, “I hope it becomes an annual birthday event!”

Tour are offered every weekend through the end of February. The first ride departs at approximately 10:30am (pst), and visitors are encouraged to come a little early to help insure a ride on the first trip. Tours last about half-an-hour, and the last tour typically leaves at 2:00pm (pst). For more information, contact T&T Wildlife Tours at 541-856-3356, or visit the website: www.tnthorsemanship.com. All pictures depicted and more are available electronically in a jpeg format.
You can contact Ethel Laurence at 541-963-5704.


ODF&W offering Special School Group Tours

(North Powder, Oregon) The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is offering a limited number of elk-viewing tours via horse-drawn wagon in conjunction with T&T Wildlife Tours, for school groups. Eddie Miguez, manager of the Elkhorn Management area relayed, “We are fortunate to be able offer scholarships for a limited number of school groups to be able experience the educational program offered by T&T Wildlife Tours, and learn about the management program..”

Participants will learn about the lifecycles of the elk, along with many interesting facts regarding antler growth, the ivory teeth of elk, and maternal care for the calves. Printed information is available for use in the classroom by teachers either pre or post tours. The publication, Wild About Elk, is produced by the Rocky Mt. Elk Foundation, and furnished to school groups to help expand education about elk.

Teachers or parents interested in finding out more about this opportunity should contact Susan Triplett, with T&T Wildlife Tours at: 541-856-3356, or email: tnthorse@eoni.com.

Farnam’s Platform® Feed Continues National Sponsorship with American Shetland Pony Club & American Miniature Horse Registry for 2010

Morton, Ill. (January 27, 2010) – Small equine owners are in for a big treat during 2010, as Farnam Companies, Inc. is continuing their sponsorship of the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry (ASPC/AMHR). As marketers of Farnam’s Platform® Miniature Horse and Pony Feed, Farnam Companies has supported the ASPC/AMHR since 2006.
Farnam’s Platform® Miniature Horse and Pony Feed is specially formulated for the more efficient digestive systems of the miniature horse and pony to help reduce nutritionally-related problems such as obesity. “The feed has been well received by the small equine market and small equine owners across the country have come to rely on Farnam as a leader in the small equine industry,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “I use Farnam’s Platform® Miniature Horse and Pony Feed and am extremely pleased with the results.”
In addition to producing specialized feed for small equines, Farnam has developed the SuperMask® Miniature Horse Fly Mask which is available in two sizes and three styles for small equines. “The products that Farnam has developed for small equines are really beneficial, and the ASPC and AMHR are thrilled that Farnam will continue our mutually beneficial agreement in 2010,” said Robb. “The development of the feed and the fly masks has filled a void in the small equine market and I know many pony and mini owners who are happily using the Farnam® products.”
Farnam will also continue their sponsorship of the Vetrolin® Grooming Awards program at the annual Shetland Pony Congress Show and the American Miniature Horse Registry National Championship Show. “We recognize that Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse markets are an important segment and are pleased to be able to support them again in 2010,” said Heather Hoff, senior vice president of Farnam Horse Products.
“Farnam has supported the ASPC/AMHR national shows since 2006 and the partnership is a natural fit,” said Zona Schneider, ASPC/AMHR Director of Operations. “The American Shetland Pony Club has been in existence for over 120 years and Farnam has been a leader in the horse care industry for more than 60 years, so we are especially pleased that these two industry icons are working together.”
For more information on Shetland Ponies or Miniature Horses, visit www.shetlandminature.com. For more information on Farnam, visit their website at www.farnamhorse.com.

Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival Announces 2010 Dates

Traverse City, MI - January 27, 2010 - Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc. is pleased to announce the dates for the 2010 Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival. Held each summer at Flintfields Horse Park in beautiful Traverse City, MI, the Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival is a month-long equestrian competition featuring some of the country's best horses and riders competing in the hunter, jumper, equitation and dressage disciplines. Flintfields Horse Park has five all weather show rings and warm up rings, including the spacious Grand Prix Ring overlooking the scenic Traverse City countryside. The horse park is located just three miles east of Traverse City, offering first-class equestrian competition right in the heart of Michigan's most popular vacation destination.

Following a fantastic 2009 season, the 2010 Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival is rapidly approaching, and will feature much more exciting competition. This year's festival will feature Dressage by the Bay Series I & II on July 8-11 and Horse Shows by the Bay Series I, II & III on July 14-August 1.

The 2010 Dressage by the Bay Series is a USDF Level 3 rated event and the only rated dressage show in Northern Michigan. The series will feature first-class competition, a breed show, complementary exhibitor parties, and a $5000 FEI Musical Freestyle.

The Horse Shows by the Bay Series will feature the country's best horses and riders competing for a chance to accumulate year-end points and grab a share of the nearly $400,000 in total prize money in the hunters, jumpers, and equitation. Highlights include the $15,000 Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA International Hunter Derby Classic, World Champion Hunter Rider sanctioning, $5000 Hunter & Jumper Classics and the weekly $30,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix.

Other special events scheduled are the weekly $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix and $10,000 SJHOF Junior/Amateur-Owner Prix plus the production of the Hunter-Jumper Association of Michigan Equitation Medal Finals. Children's and Adult Jumpers will jump for big money too - with $30,000 in classic money being earmarked for distribution, which is a considerable upgrade from previous years.

Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc. is also pleased to announce a brand new addition to the year's line-up, the Great American Insurance Group/USDF Region 2 Dressage Championships and Dressage by the Bay Fall Classic, which will run September 9-12, 2010. The honor of hosting this event was awarded based on show management's prior performance producing quality dressage shows, as well as on rider recommendations, so it is a great credit to Horse Sports by the Bay to receive such an opportunity.

To date the Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival has brought more than $40 million in tourism revenue to the immediate Traverse City area. Bringing an exceptional horse show to a popular vacation destination in Northern Michigan allows competitors to enjoy top equestrian competition while also experiencing the many special qualities of this unique town.

More announcements and news will follow in the months leading up to this exciting, vacation destination-oriented equestrian festival. For more information, please visit www.horseshowsbythebay.com or call 561.723.6287.

2010 HORSE SHOWS BY THE BAY FAST FACTS

EVENT: Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival

WHAT: A month long multi-discipline equestrian festival that attracts 1,500 horses and their riders who are in attendance to accumulate year end points and compete for $400,000 total prize money.

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.

RATING: "AA" Hunters; "Level 4" Jumpers; "Level 3" Dressage

WHERE: Flintfields Horse Park, 6535 Bates Road, Williamsburg, MI 49690 - 10 miles east from the beautiful Resort town of Traverse City

WHEN: July 8 - August 1, 2010

WEEK BY WEEK HIGHLIGHTS:

Week I, July 8 - 11:
· Dressage by the Bay Series I/II
· $5000 FEI Musical Dressage Freestyle Competition

Week II, July 14 - 18:
· $30,000 Grand Prix of Traverse City
· $15,000 International Hunter Derby Classic
· $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix
· $10,000 High JR/AO Jumper Prix
· $5000 Low JR/AO Jumper Classic
· $5000 Adult Jumper Classic
· $5000 Children's Jumper Classic
· $1000 Pony Hunter Classic
· $1000 Children's Hunter Classic
· $1000 Adult Hunter Classic

Week II, July 21 - 25: WCHR Sanctioned
· $30,000 Grand Traverse Bay Grand Prix
· $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix
· $10,000 High JR/AO Jumper Prix
· $5000 Low JR/AO Jumper Classic
· $5000 Adult Jumper Classic
· $5000 Children's Jumper Classic
· $5000 Junior Hunter Classic
· $5000 Amateur-Hunter Classic
· $5000 Adult Hunter Classic
· $5000 Children's Hunter Classic
· $2500 Pony Hunter Classic
· $2500 Pre-Green Hunter Classic

Week III, July 28 - August 1:
· $30,000 D-BRAIDER Cherry Capital Classic Grand Prix
· $10,000 Open Jumper Welcome Prix
· $10,000 High JR/AO Jumper Prix
· $10,000 Children's/Adult Jumper Prix
· $5000 Low JR/AO Jumper Classic
· $1000 Junior Hunter Classic
· $1000 Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic
· $1000 Pony Hunter Classic
· $1000 Children's Hunter Classic
· $1000 Adult Hunter Classic
· HJAM Equitation Medal Finals

HOURS: Wednesday through Sunday, beginning at 8 a.m.

ADMISSION:
Wednesday & Thursday, Closed to the Public
Friday - Sundays, $5/person for general admission ticket
PARKING: Available on-site; included in admission price

DIRECTIONS:
Directions obtained through GPS mapping devices are incorrect! FROM M-72 please turn NORTH on Bates Road - NOT SOUTH as directed.

From South East Michigan (Detroit Area): I-75 towards Grayling; @ Grayling exit left onto M-72 West; continue West through Kalkaska to Williamsburg; @ Williamsburg continue west 1.9 miles to Bates Road; after Rail Road Crossing turn right onto Bates Road; show facility on left ½ mile. 4 hours from Detroit.

From Mid-Michigan (Lansing Area): Follow US-127 north to Clare; merge onto M-10 West/M-115 to Ludington/Cadillac to Route M-115 North; From M-115 merge onto M-131 North to Fife Lake Road; turn left onto Fife Lake Road/CR 605; Follow jog, staying left on CR-605 to Williamsburg; @ Williamsburg turn left on M-72, West; continue west 1.9 miles to Bates Road; after Rail Road Crossing turn right onto Bates Road; show facility on left ½ mile. 3 hours from Lansing.

From South West Michigan (Grand Rapids Area): East 1-96 north to Grand Rapids to US 131 through Cadillac; continue north to Fife Lake Road; turn left onto Fife Lake Road/CR 605; Follow jog, staying left on CR-605 to Williamsburg; @ Williamsburg turn left on M-72, West; continue west 1.9 miles to Bates Road; after Rail Road Crossing turn right onto Bates Road; show facility on left ½ mile. 2 1/2 hours from Grand Rapids.

From Northern Michigan (Petoskey Area): Follow US 31 South to Acme; @ Acme turn left (East) on M-72 towards Williamsburg; after 3 miles turn left onto Bates Road; show facility ½ mile on left. ALT Route: Follow US 31 South to Lochenheath (north Acme); turn left (east) onto Brackett Road; after 3 miles, @ stop sign, turn right onto Bates Road; show facility ¼ mile on right. 1 hour from Petoskey.

From Traverse City: Follow US 31 North to Acme; @ Acme turn right (East) on M-72 towards Williamsburg; after 3 miles turn left onto Bates Road; show facility ½ mile on left. ALT Route: Follow US 31 South to Lochenheath (north Acme); turn right (east) onto Brackett Road; after 3 miles, @ stop sign, turn right onto Bates Road; show facility ¼ mile on right. 15 minutes from downtown.

From Toledo, Ohio & Lexington, KY: Follow US 75 north to Toledo; @ Toledo take US 23 north towards Ann Arbor; continue north on US 23, crossing over I-94 & I-96, staying north to Bay City/Flint; @ Bay City merge onto I-75 North towards Grayling; @ Grayling exit left onto M-72 West through Kalkaska to Williamsburg; @ Williamsburg continue west 1.9 miles to Bates Road; after Rail Road Crossing turn right onto Bates Road; show facility on left ½ mile. 5 hours from Toledo; 9 hours from Lexington.

By Air: Use the Cherry Capital Airport - Traverse City. From Airport, turn left onto South Airport Road to 3 mile road; @ 3 mile road turn left (north) to right (east) on US 31. Follow Directions from Traverse City. 10 minutes from Airport.

BLUE RIBBON LODGING PARTNERS:
Arbors of Traverse - Apartment Rentals, 231.932.9200
Cambria Suites, 231.778.9100
Coldwell Banker Schmidt - Vacation & Cottage Rentals, 888.242.7555
Grand Beach Resort, 231-938-4455
Honcho Rest Campground, 231.941.3600
Park Shore Resort, 231-947-3800
Sugar Beach Resort, 231-938-0100
Super 8- East Bay, 231-938-1887
Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel, 800.922.2946

For all other Group Rates & Additional Hotel Listings, contact Sarah Barnard @ the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau: 1800 - 940 - 1120 or sbarnard@visittraversecity.com.

STABLING/SPONSORSHIP/VENDOR CONTACT:
Alex Rheinheimer
561-723-6287
alexrheinheimer@aol.com
www.horseshowsbythebay.com

McLain Ward and Miss Liberty 7 Take Top Spot in $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Jumpers at 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL - January 27, 2010 - McLain Ward and Miss Liberty 7, owned by Overlook Farm, Inc., took the top prize today in the $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Jumpers. They were the fastest in the speed round over second place finishers Pablo Barrios on G&C Quick Star and Maggie Jayne with Pony Lane Farm's Esquilino Bay.

Today's class opened up competition for the third week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), and the week three title sponsor is Nespresso. The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 4, 2010, and the circuit will be awarding almost $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Olaf Petersen Jr. joins the FTI WEF this week as course designer in the International Arena. He designed a course to welcome jumper riders in the third week. Out of 27 entries, there were 14 clean rounds over the Time First Round format.

The early leader was Pablo Barrios (VEN) and G&C Quick Star, owned by Gustavo and Carolina Mirabal. They set the time to beat at 63.418 seconds, which would hold up for second place at the end of the class.

Riding out of the 11th spot in the order, Ward and Miss Liberty 7, owned by Overlook Farm Inc., cruised around the course and crossed the timers in 62.814 seconds to take over the lead.

Taking a bid at the lead was third place finisher, Maggie Jayne, on Pony Land Farm's Esquilino Bay. They finished in 64.173 seconds. Angela Covert-Lawrence (CAN) and the Eastwood Group's Unica van de Roshoeve were fourth in 64.460 seconds, while Christina Kelly and With Wings, owned by Raylyn Farms LLC, were fifth in 65.759 seconds.




McLain Ward and Miss Liberty 7


Miss Liberty 7, a 15-year-old Oldenburg mare by Liberty M xx Rouletto, has been in Ward's barn for a year, where she is for sale. "She's been a great winner over the last year," Ward said.

Today's class was not a warm-up for Ward. He explained, "I use her here to win these types of classes. She's 15 now, so she's a little older, but very healthy. It's nice to try and win some prize money during the week with her."

Miss Liberty 7 and Ward will compete again in the Spy Coast 1.40m Jumpers on Friday in the International Arena, and their plan is to show in the $50,000 CN Palm Beach Derby, which will be held in The Stadium on Sunday, February 21, during week six of the 2010 FTI WEF. Ward believes that she will be a top competitor for the derby with her experience at such top derby competitions as Spruce Meadows Masters.

The third week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival continues tomorrow with the third round of the $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup at 1 p.m. The $55,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes will run on Saturday, January 30, at 7 p.m., following a special exhibition of the Budweiser Clydesdales. On Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m., the $75,000 Nespresso Grand Prix, CSI 2* will round out the competition for the week.

For full results and more information, please visit www.shownet.bizwww.equestriansport.com. or

Final Results: $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Timed First Round
1. MISS LIBERTY 7, MCLAIN WARD (USA), OVERLOOK FARM INC: 0/62.814
2. G&C QUICK STAR, PABLO BARRIOS (VEN), GUSTAVO & CAROLINA MIRABAL: 0/63.418
3. ESQUILINO BAY, MAGGIE JAYNE (USA), PONY LANE FARM: 0/64.173
4. UNICA VAN DE ROSHOEVE, ANGELA COVERT-LAWRENCE (CAN), EASTWOOD GROUP: 0/64.460
5. WITH WINGS, CHRISTINA KELLY (USA), RAYLYN FARMS LLC: 0/65.759
6. UTAN, ANGELA COVERT-LAWRENCE (CAN), EASTWOOD GROUP: 0/66.852 7. PREZIOSO S, LAUREN HOUGH (USA), HIGHLIFE FARMS: 0/66.919
8. TORTOLA, LAURA KRAUT (USA), BEVERLY WIDDOWSON: 0/68.945
9. CINCINATTI LA SILLA, SEAN CROOKS, GLEN YOUELL: 0/75.877
10. WHEELS UP, IAN MILLAR, TEAM WORKS: 0/76.086
11. MURKA'S MR. BACARDI, PETER CHARLES, PETER CHARLES: 0/76.257
12. CARLUCCI 12, EDOUARD DE ROTHSCHILD, EDOUARD DE ROTHSCHILD: 0/82.439

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC Announces 2010 Horse Show Schedule

Lexington, KY- January 27, 2010 - The nation's premier horse show management company, Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, is pleased to announce that it will be featuring the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows, the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows, the Adequan FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships Presented by Gotham North, the USEF Junior Hunter National Championship - East Coast, the USEF National Pony Finals, and the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show during the 2010 season. All four six competitions will be held at the newly renovated Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, which is also the site of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

The nation's leading hunter and jumper riders will return once again for the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows series to compete for top honors during this prestigious event. The show features two exciting weeks of competition, the Kentucky Spring Horse Show, scheduled for the week of May 12-16, 2010, and the Kentucky Spring Classic held from May 19-23, 2010.

Each week the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows will feature the $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, CSI 2*, where riders will have the opportunity to compete for the Hagyard Leading Rider Bonus. These two classes will kick-off the Hagyard Challenge Series, consisting of five grand prix classes held during the 2010 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park. The final Hagyard event will be the $50,000 World Cup Qualifier held on August 20 during the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show. The Hagyard Leading Rider Bonus will be awarded to the year's top rider following the completion of this exciting event.

The Kentucky Spring Horse Show will also feature the $55,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix on May 16 and the Kentucky Spring Classic will feature the $55,000 Mary Rena Murphy Grand Prix to be held on SundaySaturday, May 22. Both of these classes will be held in the new Outdoor Stadium that features the OTTO Sport footing system, and will host the show jumping events for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

The first week of competition, the Kentucky Spring Horse Show, is a World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) recognized hunter competition. The WCHR is an awards program started by the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation, and the awards are presented, on both a national and regional level, to Pony, Junior, Amateur, Professional, Adult and Children's hunter riders who accumulate the most points at WCHR designated horse shows throughout the year.

The Kentucky Spring Horse Show will also feature the Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA International Hunter Derby Presented by Dietrich Insurance, being held Saturday, May 14, in the Walnut ArenaMain Stadium.

"We are looking forward to returning to the Horse Park in May," said Hugh Kincannon, manager of Kentucky Horse Shows LLC. . "Now that the construction projects related to the World Equestrian Games have been completed we think it is quite simply the finest horse show facility in the world. Of special note to Oour hunter exhibitors will be especially pleased to note tthe installation of the OTTO Sport footing in the Murphy Ring which is being funded by the Bluegrass Festival and KHJA horse shows."

The country's top riders will return to the Kentucky Horse Park at the end of July to compete during the Kentucky Summer Horse Shows. The events will begin with the Kentucky Summer Horse Show held from July 28-August 1, 2010, and the Kentucky Summer Classic is scheduled for the week of August 4- 8, 2010.

The 2010 Adequan I.M. FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships Presented by Gotham North will run concurrently to the Kentucky Summer Horse Show, and these thrilling events will be hosted in the Outdoor Stadium. The Kentucky Summer Horse Show will also feature the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, part of the Hagyard Challenge Series. The week's main event will be the $40,000 Kentucky Summer Grand Prix to be held on Saturday, July 31.

The Kentucky Summer Classic is a World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) recognized hunter competition, and has also been selected to host the 2010 USEF Junior Hunter National Championship - East Coast. The hunter classes for this championship event and the USHJA Hunterdon Cup Equitation Classic will be held August 5-7, 2010.

An additional highlight during the Kentucky Summer Classic will be the $50,000 Rood & Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix, scheduled for the evening of Saturday, August 7, 2010, in the Indoor Arena. This event will be held in conjunction with the Kentucky Horse Park's "Hats Off Day," which is a salute to the horse industry in Kentucky. Admission to the Park will be free on that Saturday, so enjoy taking the opportunity to see the world's top equestrians compete at the highest level.

Following the Kentucky Summer Classic will be the 2010 USEF Pony Finals, held from August 10-15, 2010. The top ponies from across the nation will gather at the Kentucky Horse Park to compete for championship honors in their respective divisions. The event has grown so much over the last two years that a sixth day has been added to the competition. The Green Pony Hunters will compete on Tuesday and Wednesday, while the Regular Pony Hunters will compete from Wednesday through Saturday. Each height of the Regular Pony Hunter sections will compete over two days. The Pony Jumpers will once again show Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings, while the Pony Equitation Final will take place on Sunday.

The final event of the summer series will be the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show, to be held August 18 - 22, 2010. This event will showcase the top hunters by hosting the 2010 Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals, Presented by Dietrich Insurance on August 20 & 21.This exciting competition will once again offer $100,000 in prize money to those horsesthe top 75 horses that qualify. Another feature event will be the $50,000 Bluegrass Festival Grand Prix CSI-W, a qualifying competition for the 2011 World Cup Show Jumping Finals, and the final event in the Hagyard Challenge Series. This event is held in memory of Betsy Fishback with proceeds going to the Markey Cancer Foundation.

"We think that this schedule of special events is the most exciting that we have ever offered," noted Kincannon.. "We are particularly pleased to be using the Horse Park's new Indoor Arena for the $50,000 Rood & Riddle Grand Prix, the International Hunter Derby Finals and the World Cup Qualifier on August 20. The first jumping event in this world-class facility with OTTO sport footing was the September 2009 World Cup Qualifier. That class received rave reviews from competitors and specttorsspectators."

Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC will be hosting all of their top-level competitions at the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park. It attracts the nations best competitors because it offers wonderful competition venues, excellent stabling, plenty of exercise rings and spacious places to ride, miles of trails, and lush cross country fields.

For more information about the horse shows hosted by Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC in 2010, please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

New Strategic Marketing Alliance: On-line Video Advertising for the Equestrian World

January 27, 2010……………. Carson City, NV. The Horse Advertising Network (HADN) and SportsQuest International (SQI) are announcing a Strategic Marketing Alliance to provide on-line video content and advertising aimed exclusively at Horse Enthusiasts worldwide. The service will utilize newly developed technologies and well proven ad networks. These services currently deliver banner advertisements to a variety of horse focused audiences.

Video is the fastest-growing segment of the Internet advertising market. Digital video amounted to $477 million in revenue in the first half of 2009, up 38 percent from the same time period in 2008, according to the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB).

"The one big shift in the next three to five years is going to be video advertising," Nikesh Arora, President of Global Sales Operations and Business Development at Google, said at the recent Reuters Global Media Summit in New York. Google estimates that 76% of Internet users view video on-line. In the third quarter of 2009, Google said it monetized one billion video views a week on YouTube and looks to video advertising as its next big growth area.

The HADN - SQI alliance makes it easy for businesses both large and small to participate in the on line video advertising arena through ad networks dedicated exclusively to serving the Horse Industry.

According to the American Horse Council, a Washington, DC based trade association representing all segments of the equine industry, horse related activities have a direct economic effect on the U.S. of $39 billion annually. The industry has a $102 billion impact on the U.S. economy when the multiplier effect of spending by industry suppliers and employees is taken into account.

HADN - SQI can provide everything from production services and ad development through video content and ad placement on horse industry related websites - all with cost efficient pricing and enterprise class ad campaign management.

HADN and SQI support popular flash based video players and banners ads in a number of IAB standard sizes.

About SportsQuest International:

SportsQuest International (SQI) is a privately held multimedia production company specializing in the development and promotion of sports related programming that presents positive, informational rich themes. The company is based in Oakland, California (USA), and is widely known for its coverage of national and international level equestrian events.

SportsQuest.tv will host on-line coverage of Super Ride VIII: The 2010 United States Equestrian Drill Championship, June 23 – 26 from the Texas Rose Horse Park, near Lindale.

About the Horse Advertising Network:

The Horse Advertising Network (HADN) has been delivering banner ads to the Horse Industry for the last year, reaching horse enthusiasts worldwide. HADN is the easiest, most effective Internet advertising and website ad publishing solution available that is dedicated solely to the Horse Industry. HADN delivers quality prospects to its advertiser members and generates revenue for website publisher members displaying ads HADN places on their website. Visit the HADN website at http://www.horseadvertisingnetwork.com/

Take part in this dynamic marketing opportunity. For more information contact:

Andrew Nester
Horse Advertising Network
http://www.horseadvertisingnetwork.com/
email: andrew@horseadvertisingnetwork.com
Phone: 707-987-8375

Pennsylvania’s Devon Horse Show Receives USEF Heritage Competition Status

By Brian Sosby

Lexington, KY—The Devon Horse Show, a historic Pennsylvania equestrian event that has become a part of the fabric of the American showing scene, is the fourth American horse show to be honored with the United States Equestrian Federation’s designation as a USEF Heritage Competition. Devon has now received the highest honor that can be given to a Federation horse show.

The designation of a USEF Heritage Competition is reserved for those competitions that have been in existence for a quarter century or more, promoted and grown equestrian sport, and made a contribution to the community outside the gates of the horse show by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

In 1896, the Devon Horse Show started as a one-day show. Now, 114 years later, this USEF A-rated show is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the country. While it draws top competitors from around the world, the show continues to reflect the local traditions and lifestyles of the area.

In 1914, Devon boasted 1,000 entries, bringing it to the forefront of the show season. Three years later, in 1917, the show became a founding member of the American Horse Shows Association (AHSA, now USEF). Devon also has a long-standing commitment to the local Bryn Mawr Hospital. From 1972 to the present, more than $14 million has been donated to support such projects as the hospital’s Emergency department, Comprehensive Breast Care Center, Maternal-Fetal Medicine program, and Outpatient Diagnostic Center, to name a few.

“The Devon Horse Show is deeply rooted in our country’s horse show world,” said USEF Chief Executive Officer John Long. “It has been a staple on the U.S. horse show calendar and represents everything the USEF looks for when designating a Heritage Competition.”

The specific requirements of a Heritage Competition can be found in the USEF Rule Book, GR301.6, or at www.usef.org/documents/ruleBook/2009/GeneralRules/Chapter%203.pdf.

Interested competitions may apply for Heritage Competition designation by completing the form available at www.usef.org/documents/competitions/2009/HeritageApplication.pdf.
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ALERT: BUDWEISER CLYDESDALES APPEAR SATURDAY JAN. 30 AT THE FTI WINTER EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL TO USHER IN THE $55,000 NESPRESSO BATTLE OF THE SEXES

Come see two American institutions on Saturday night, Jan. 30, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The Budweiser Clydesdales will have an exhibition before the women compete against the men to decide not who is the fairer, but the faster sex. The $55,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes was created uniquely for the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival where an unprecedented gathering of World Class and Olympic equestrians don their gender-specific pink or blue polo shirts and compete on their horses side by side, in some cases pitting husband against wife to decide which team of riders gains victory for their gender.

As part of our Saturday Night Lights entertainment for the whole family every Saturday in the International Arena, we have an amazing opening act this week. The famed Budweiser Clydesdales will make a rare local appearance at 6:45 p.m. in the International Arena to show their magnificent skills and will be available for photo opportunities with spectators after the Opening Ceremonies.





Also featured will be Street Performers from Key West including The Great Rondini with astounding escape and magic feats www.thegreatrondini.com and juggler/rope walker Will Soto, one of the founders of the Sunset Festival in Key West. Kids will also love the face painters and balloon artists.

At 7 p.m. the women are pitted against the men head to head, or in this case head to tail in a three-phase show jumping event. In the $55,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes, a team of top-notch female and male show jumpers will face off against each other. The class will include an individual speed jumping round, a match race over fences, and a six bar competition. This year the female team will be defending their title. Don't let the pretty in pink fool you - these women have the guts for glory. Men, the gauntlet has been thrown. Let the best man - or woman win. You have the ring side seat. What's your wager?

Note that General Admission is Free. Parking is $20 per carload.




The women won the 2009 Battle of the Sexes.

Photo copyright Randi Muster/Mustphoto, Inc.



Nespresso Battle of the Sexes Women's Team (subject to change)
Georgina Bloomberg (USA)
Candice King (USA)
Margie Engle (USA)
Beezie Madden (USA)
Laura Kraut (USA)
Lauren Hough (USA)
Casey Hodges (USA)
Cara Raether (USA)
Marilyn Little-Meredith (USA)
Nicole Shahinian-Simpson (USA)

Nespresso Battle of the Sexes Men's Team (subject to change)
Pablo Barrios (VEN)
Shane Sweetnam (IRL)
Ali Nilforushan (IRN)
Peter Charles (GBR)
Jorge Zamudio (ARG)
Ramiro Quintana (ARG)
Michael Morrissey (USA)
Charlie Jayne (USA)
Benjamin Meredith (AUS)
Will Simpson (USA)


For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com

Yvonne Losos de Muniz and Optimus Prime Win Grand Prix Special Sponsored by Classic Equine at Gold Coast Opener CDI

West Palm Beach, FL (January 27, 2010) – International Grand Prix rider Yvonne Losos de Muniz’s first experience in the ring with her new Austrian Grand Prix partner turned out to be a winning one, as Losos de Muniz and the 16-year-old Optimus Prime won the Grand Prix Special at the Gold Coast Dressage Opener. Losos de Muniz’s win earned her a beautiful polar fleece vest from Classic Equine Equipment, a nationally recognized leader in quality horse stall systems and stable accessories, and the sponsor of the class.
“I just bought Optimus Prime about a month ago and we are still figuring each other out in the ring, but he is a lovely horse,” Losos de Muniz said. “During the class I didn’t go for the impulsion or anything fancy. I went for a nice steady test and he gave me exactly what I asked for so I was super happy.”
The Dominican Republic rider has a long list of accomplishments to her name, including earning Bronze Individual medals in the 2003 and 2007 Pan American Games. Losos de Muniz is in South Florida for the winter show season and said she was very appreciative that Classic Equine sponsored her class. “It was a great first trip into the show ring for Yvonne and Optimus Prime and we were quite happy to see her wearing our Classic Equine vest after she won the class,” said Adam Busse, owner of the award-winning stall systems and stable accessories company. “We are really enjoying sponsoring classes during the winter show circuit. It is a pleasure to meet so many talented riders.”
Throughout the winter show season, horse enthusiasts are invited to stop by the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center to visit the Classic Equine booth next to the Tiki Tower overlooking the International Ring. “We’ve earned our reputation as the leading producer of beautiful, innovative, and high-quality stalls and equipment by always putting horse and rider first,” Busse said. “Our systems are built to endure the most rigorous of real world applications and remain safe, secure and beautiful.”
For more information on Classic Equine Equipment, visit their website at www.classic-equine.com.

JET Show Stables Wins 2010 Classic Equine- Idlewild Tack Room Award During at

Wellington, FL (January 27, 2010) – JET Show Stables, owned by Grand Prix riders Jimmy and Danielle Torano, won the prestigious Classic Equine Idlewild Tack Room Award during the second week of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. The Torano’s tapped into their inner equestrian interior decorator with their setup at WEF, winning a beautiful solid handcrafted tropical teak braiding stool from Tack Room Award sponsors Classic Equine Equipment and their South Florida distributors, Idlewild Furnishing.
The Torano’s, who own JET Show Stable locations in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Mohrsville, Pennsylvania, have been part of the grand prix tour for many years and are fixtures at the Winter Equestrian Festival. Jimmy rode in his first Grand Prix at WEF in 1989 and has a long list of show accomplishments to his name. Jimmy was in the ribbons during the first week of WEF this year, winning the $25,000 Gold Coast Feed Six-Bar competition on Heechhiem’s Tampa.
Danielle is also well known in the show jumping world and represented the United States in the 2008 World Cup Finals in Sweden and the 2009 World Cup Finals in Las Vegas. She is the winningest rider ever in the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Amateur-Owner Jumper Series and in 2008 she was a member of the winning $75,000 FEI Nation’s Cup team in Wellington.
Torano’s WEF tack room was designed with striking and functional black lacquer walls that complement the matching green tack trunks. “We like to have something that is functional and roomy so that all of our clients can sit, but we also want it to be workmanlike,” Jimmy said; in describing the design of their WEF show setup.
Adam Busse, owner of Classic Equine Equipment, a nationally recognized leader in quality horse stall systems and stable accessories, was on hand to present the Torano’s with their Classic Equine Idlewild Tack Room Award. “They had a great setup and it was a pleasure to meet Jimmy and Danielle,” Busse said.
Each week during the 2010 WEF season, the Classic Equine Idlewild Tack Room Award will be presented to one winner stabled on the show grounds. Tack and stabling areas will be judged on aesthetics and suitability. Weekly winners will be selected by a panel of spotters and will be awarded during a photo presentation in the stabling area.
Throughout the Winter Equestrian Festival, Busse is encouraging all horse enthusiasts to stop by the Classic Equine booth next to the Tiki Tower overlooking the International Ring. John Grimes, owner of Idlewild Furnishing, the number one source for equine safari chic furnishings for home and stable and the South Florida distributor of Classic Equine Equipment, said that barns at WEF have always competed unofficially to design the most exciting and inviting tack rooms on the show grounds. “Now the competition is official and JET Show Stables is a fine example of how creative farms can be in designing their show areas,” Grimes said. “Congratulations to Jimmy and Danielle on a job well done.”
For more information on Classic Equine Equipment, visit their website at www.classic-equine.com. For more information on Idlewild Furnishing, visit their website at www.Idlewildfurnishings.com

North American Anglo-Arabian Year End Award Winners

The North American Anglo-Arabian Horse Association (NAAAHA) has announced the winners of its 2009 High Point Program for Anglo-Arabians that compete in Working Hunter, Jumper, Eventing., Dressage, Sport Horse, Conformation, Endurance and Competitive Trail. All shows and rides whether rated or unrated counted towards these awards.

Hunter/Jumper
Champion: One More Round/Bill & Alexis Doughty
Reserve: Diamond Jim Kelly/Miranda Kuchera
Third: R Jay Bakaro/Allan Ehrlick

Dressage
Champion: Jamil/Mary Ann LaFerriere
Reserve: Little Traverse Bay/Samantha Gioia
Third: Hazen/Beth Coffey-Curle
Fourth: Ashen Gazi/Dawn Cozzolino

Sport Horse U/S
Champion: One More Round/Bill & Alexis Doughty
Reserve: Jamil/Mary Ann LaFerriere
Third: Diamond Jim Kelly/Miranda Kuchera

Eventing
Champion: Snooze Alarm/Lauren Kieffer
Reserve: Nations Recount/Peter Atkins

Endurance/CTR
Champion: JBK Tara/T.J. Edwards
Reserve: Raemes Magician/Tom Paleczny
Third: SS Allsfairn War/Susan Young

Conformation
Champion: One More Round/Bill & Alexis Doughty
Reserve: Khemos Khopi/John Albright
Third: Mak My Day/Andrew Miller
Fourth: Diamond Jim Kelly/Miranda Kuchera

Horse of the Year
One More Round/Bill & Alexis Doughty

Each Champion and Reserve Champion will receive engraved trophy plates. All placings also receive a huge ribbon.

Anglo-Arabians are the third oldest breed in the world, having been bred in France as far back as the early 1800’s. The breed is comprised of a combination of Thoroughbred and Arabian blood, requiring no more than 75% Thoroughbred and no less than 25% Arabian to be registered. Anglo-Arabians are highly respected worldwide as exceptional athletes, especially in the Olympic disciplines, and are ranked third in the world in the sport of Eventing.

You can visit NAAAHA’s website, www.NAAAHA.com for more information, or call (410) 823-5579.
(Photos of winners upon request)

ATTENTION DRESSAGE COMPETITION MANAGERS: Dressage Competitions Invited to Submit Applications for 2011 USEF/NAJYRC Qualifiers

From the USEF Dressage Department

Lexington, KY - The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) invites licensed dressage competitions to apply to become an official 2011 “qualifying competition” for the USEF Dressage Developing Programs and the FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Dressage Championships (NAJYRC).

DEADLINE: APRIL 30, 2010

The USEF Developing Programs & the NAJYRC Program include the following:
Ø USEF National Championships for Juniors, Young Riders, & Young Adult “Brentina Cup”
Ø FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Dressage Championships
Ø USEF National Young Horse & Developing Horse Dressage Championships

Competitions licensed for dates from January 1, 2011 – December 31, 2011 will be considered at this time. A completed application for each licensed competition must be submitted and received by April 30, 2010. Applications received after this deadline will NOT be considered. The on-line application is available via the USEF website at this link: http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/breedsDisciplines/discipline/allDressage/QualifyingCompetition.aspx.

For questions or further information, please contact Jennifer Keeler, USEF National Director of Dressage, jkeeler@usef.org or (859) 225-2024.

Canadian Sport Horse Stallion Rheirattack Wins TailRx “Best Tail Award” At Gold Coast Dressage CDI

West Palm Beach, FL (January 27, 2010) – The Canadian Sport Horse stallion Rheirattack has already proven his athletic ability in the Grand Prix ring, but during the Gold Coast Dressage Opener he proved he is also sporting an additional award-winning feature – a thick, luxurious tail. Rheirattack’s tail earned the stallion the TailRx “Best Tail Award” during the show, enabling his rider Susanne Dutt-Roth to ride away with a TailRx prize basket.
Rheirattack stands at Rideauwood Farm near Ottawa, Canada, and Dutt-Roth said he is both Oldenburg approved and Westphalian approved. He was named the Canadian Sport Horse Association Dressage Stallion of the Year six different years and together Rheirattack and Dutt-Roth have represented the Canadian Dressage National Team multiple times.
Rheirattack was competing in the Grand Prix ring at the Gold Coast Dressage Opener when TailRx judges spotted his tail. “He has one of the best tails I have ever seen,” said Mary Brunetti, founder of TailRx, a revolutionary mane and tail restoration system for horses. “It’s thick, strong and beautiful and exactly the kind of tail horse owners dream of their horse’s having. TailRx helps horses achieve dream tails as it adds volume and makes the tail three times as strong within the first use.”
Brunetti, an award-winning celebrity hair stylist in New York City and a dressage rider, said TailRx also keeps the scalp in such healthy shape that it can’t help but grow good hair. “It starts at the follicle first,” Brunetti said. “TailRx is an easy to administer three-step treatment and all horse owners need to do is follow the simple 5-minute application routine. You can expect noticeable improvements from TailRx in the first week and then expect thicker, stronger and longer hair in just a few months.”
According to Brunetti, horses aren’t the only ones using TailRx. Humans are also embracing the product and after an article appeared in Lucky magazine praising the product’s use on people, Brunetti said TailRx has been hard to keep on the shelves. “TailRx works on humans as well because we are all mammals and share the same hair follicle structure,” she said, adding that Nylon Magazine also did a story on TailRx saying the product is a great way for women to have thicker, healthier and sleeker hair.
The TailRx “Best Tail Award” is awarded during the winter show circuit to the horse or pony at the show with the most luxurious tail. The winner is awarded a TailRx basket filled with prizes and the much sought-after TailRx product. For more information on TailRx, visit www.tailrx.com.

Sho Clothes Jog An International Affair

West Palm Beach, FL (January 27, 2010) – International fashion stole the show during the Sho Clothes sponsored CDI Jog at the Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener CDI, held at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Luis Denizard, of Puerto Rico, won the best male turnout while Leah Wilson, of Canada, took home the award for best female turnout.
Denizard and Wilson’s fashion sense earned them a $75 gift certificate from Sho Clothes and a gift from the premiere Wellington dressage boutique. “My choice to dress in this manner was a collaboration with my wife, as to what tie, what shirt and what pants to wear,” Denizard said. “I believe that more people should take the formality of the jog seriously and present themselves to the public. I would like the jog to be advertised more to the community so that it takes on more prestige.“
Denizard was pleased that his outfit choice garnered him the Sho Clothes jog award. “I was honored to win the best dressed male award,” Denizard said. “I have been trying very hard for the past three years to win best dressed at the jog.”
As a dressage rider and trainer, Denizard said he appreciates the fact that Sho Clothes supports the dressage community. “It felt great to win best dressed male and I thank Sho Clothes for their generous gift,” Denizard said. “I have always been impressed with the Sho Clothes mobile store and with the manner of how the clothes are presented. I am also impressed with their quality of clothing available.”
Sho Clothes owners Michele Hundt and Betsy Rebar Sell were pleased to sponsor the jog, as fashion in the dressage world is what the boutique is known for. “It was wonderful to see the dressage riders turned out so nicely for the jog,” said Hundt, who was on hand to present the Sho Clothes gift certificates to Denizard and Wilson.
Sho Clothes, located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, specializes in dressage apparel and has become the “go to” dressage boutique for dressage enthusiasts from all over the world. 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. For more information on Sho Clothes visit their website at www.shoclothes.com or call 1-561-319-2121.

DOVER SADDLERY CONGRATULATES 2009 USDF/DOVER MEDAL CHAMPIONS

LITTLETON, MA – January 27, 2010 – Dover Saddlery would like to congratulate the 2009 Dover Saddlery Adult Amateur Medal National and Reserve Champions. The USDF/Dover Adult Medal Program recognizes the adult amateur riding at Second Level.
The 2009 Champion is Kelly Jo Robbins with an average score of 69.923%. Robbins partnered with Lucca, a ten-year-old Oldenburg she has owned for seven years. The Champion won an Ulla Salzgeber Dressage Saddle generously donated by Kieffer Saddler and a $1,000 Dover Saddlery Gift Certificate. The Ulla Salzgeber saddle features an extra deep seat and Kieffer’s signature Excellent tree which provides close contact and a responsive feel. Robbins has been riding on and off since the age of seven including time spent as a United States Pony Club member. When not at the barn, she spends time with her husband and two boys ages six and eleven. Despite spending four years on crutches, Kelly Jo continued riding and has obviously overcome much to become this year’s National Champion. 2009 was a competitive year in the Dover Medal program and Kelly Jo topped a record number of thirty-seven Dover Medal National Merit Award winners.

The 2009 Reserve Champion title was awarded to Dixie Montgomery riding Wester with an average score of 68.295%. . Wester is a six year old Dutch Warmblood imported from Holland. Montgomery has won a Warendorf Deluxe Dressage Bridle due out in the spring. When not in the saddle, one can find Montgomery volunteering with a non-profit organization called Hope in Haiti where she sponsors education for children and leads three teams a year to assist schools. Like Robbins, Montgomery has overcome much in her life having raised and homeschooled seventeen children and feels “after my husband died…Wester has been such a delight”.

About the USDF/Dover Saddlery Adult Medal Program

The top two riders are determined by taking the average of their top three scores from Second Level Test Three wins in an USDF/Dover Adult Medal class during the competition year. Dover Medal classes were offered at 490 USDF recognized shows in 2009. Each USDF/Dover Adult Amateur Medal class winner receives a handcrafted pewter USDF/Dover Medal and neck ribbon at the horse show along with a Dover Saddlery gift certificate. For more information about the United States Dressage Federation/Dover Saddlery Adult Medal class or to learn more about hosting a class, please visit DoverSaddlery.com and click on the Dover Partners link.

About Dover Saddlery, Inc.

Dover Saddlery, Inc. (Nasdaq: DOVR) is the leading multi-channel retailer of equestrian products in the United States. Founded in 1975 in Wellesley, Massachusetts, by United States Equestrian team members, Dover Saddlery has grown to become The Source® for equestrian products. Dover offers a broad and distinctive selection of competitively priced, brand-name products for horse and rider through catalogs, the Internet and company-owned retail stores. Dover Saddlery, Inc. serves the English rider and through Smith Brothers, the Western rider. The Source®, Dover Saddlery® and Smith Brothers® are registered marks of Dover Saddlery.
For more information, please call 1-978-952-8062 or visit DoverSaddlery.com.

USEF Names Dates and Location for 2010 Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Dressage Festival of Champions and USEF Selection Trial for the US Dressage Team for

From the USEF Dressage Department

Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) has announced the dates and location for the 2010 Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Dressage Festival of Champions which will also serve as the USEF Selection Trial for the US Dressage Team for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG).

The competition will be held over two weeks: August 6-8 and August 13-15, 2010 at the USET Foundation Headquarters in Gladstone, NJ.

The best horse/rider combinations in the following divisions will vie for national dressage championships: The first half of the Grand Prix National Dressage Championship and the Intermediaire I Championship will run over the first weekend and the Junior, Young Rider and Young Adult ‘Brentina Cup,’ as well as the conclusion of the Grand Prix National Dressage Championship will run over the second weekend.

The USEF Selection Trial for the US Dressage Team for the WEG will be the Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF Grand Prix National Championship.

DNR Draft Strategic Plan

Hi, folks:

I just wanted to send you a quick email update to let you know that the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has just released its Draft Strategic Plan. You can download the plan at: www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/em_dnr_draft_strategic_plan_1_25_2010.pdf
In February, DNR will be holding seven public meetings/open houses around the state to present and discuss the Draft Strategic Plan. If you can’t make it to a meeting and want to give your input, you can fill out our online survey. More information about the meeting dates, times, locations and a link to the survey are at: www.dnr.wa.gov/BusinessPermits/Topics/OtherInteragencyInformation/Pages/em_dnr_strategic_plan.aspx

The recreation programs falls within goal number one on the plan.
I hope that you will take the time to look over the plan and either attend a meeting or share your thoughts in the survey.

Mark R. Mauren
Assistant Division Manager
Recreation, Public Access and WCC Programs
Asset Management and Recreation Division
Washington State Department of Natural Resources
360-902-1047
mark.mauren@dnr.wa.gov
__________________________________________________________________________________
Visit DNR online:

Ride with the Experts at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo!

Arena gates will be open to participants in the saddle at the Denver Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, March 12-14, 2010.
Clinicians participating in the “Ride with the Experts” program are:
Gerrie & Jeff Barnes Ryan Gingerich
Tammy Pate
Debbie Bibb Star Hughes
Richard Shrake
Cody Crow Bob Olson
Moses Woodson
Details about the clinicians and their programs are posted at www.RockyMountainHorseExpo.com . Ride and have fun on your horse indoors this March, as you refine your skills with lessons from top-ranked horsemen and women.

There are two rate options for participants:
Option 1: $40/per session, plus stalling at $40/day (stall required for all horses on premises, regardless of length of stay). Includes 2 single-day admission tickets (for day of ride or rides); trucks with trailers park at no charge in Lot C.
Option 2: Participant package: $200 for 3 rides total, plus 1 stall for the entire Expo. Includes 2 three-day passes and 1 parking pass (trailer can be dropped at Lot C).

If you would like to “Ride with the Experts,” just take the following steps:
1. Fill out a contract available at www.RockyMountainHorseExpo.com or (303) 292-4981. List your three clinician preferences, and the RMHE will forward your information to the clinician(s) in order of preference, for them to determine whether it’s a match between their program and your skills and goals. If your first choice doesn’t work out, then the RMHE will contact your second, etc. Full payment is expected at the time of submitting the contract.
2. Furnish proof of liability insurance. If you don’t have this coverage from another source, it’s included in your Colorado Horse Council individual/family membership or available for purchase from us. Not a member yet? Time to join: go to www.ColoradoHorseCouncil.com for an application.
3. Contracts and insurance must be submitted no later than March 1.
4. Note and follow all the requirements for health papers detailed on the contract; papers will be checked at the gate before your horse is admitted onto the National Western grounds.
5. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign the application along with you.
6. All riders (and parent/guardian if appropriate) must sign RMHE liability releases before riding.

More questions? Call (303) 292-4981.
See you in the saddle!

Northwest Horse Fair & Expo 2010

Equine Entertainment, Excitement, Education & Shopping!

Northwest Horse Fair officials have announced a dynamic group of world-class clinicians and a variety of exciting equine entertainment, for the eleventh annual Northwest Horse Fair and Expo, presented by SilverLite Trailers, March 19 through 21, 2010 at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center in Albany, Oregon. “This year’s event is loaded with a great line-up of world-class clinicians and trainers who will provide first-rate clinics and demonstrations for the crowd’s enjoyment”, said John Cloe, event founder and manager. Daily clinics will include: Al Dunning presenting Reining, Working Cow and Cutting clinics; George Williams featuring Dressage instruction; Nick Karazissis conducting daily Hunter/Jumper clinics; Peggy Cummings offering Connected RidingÒ; and Steve Rother giving clinics on how to Excel with Horses. “We’ll also present a very special Equine Extravaganza Thursday evening”, continued Mr. Cloe. “Combining music and horses, action and adventure, you’ll see an evening of exhilarating equine entertainment that will delight the whole family!”

EQUINE EXTRAVAGANZA - THURSDAY EVENING!
The Equine Extravaganza will kick off the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo beginning at 4pm Thursday, March 18. Costumes, color and pageantry will highlight dramatic performances by the Silver Edge Theatrical Equestrian Group, featuring fast pace rides with magnificent costumes and awe-inspiring music. The SilverLite Drill Team will “strut their stuff” showing off precision drills on horseback, and a pair of black Friesian horses from the FeatherDance BlackPearl Friesian Dance Troupe will combine music with clever choreography, to provide spectators with awesome entertainment on horseback! Rounding out the evening, Steve Rother will present a special clinic, “Taming the Wild Ones – Wild Mustang Handling”.
EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER
“We’re pleased to present the Extreme Mustang Makeover for the second year, at the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo. It’s an exciting spectator event that tests the trainers’ abilities to tame wild mustangs in a very short period of time!” said Mr. Cloe. Thirty trainers received their wild mustangs December 1, and are training and preparing them for the Extreme Mustang Makeover competition, organized by the Mustang Heritage Foundation. The three and four year old mustangs, gathered in Oregon, will be judged on conditioning, groundwork, and a "Horse Course" that requires tricky maneuvers and includes obstacles found in trail and recreational riding situations. The contest culminates with the Finals, where the top contestants showcase their horse’s best talents, as they compete for $7,500 in prize money. “The crowds went wild for last year’s winner, ‘Mustang Sally’, as she showed off her jumping skills in the Finals, clearing 3 foot fences with ease!”, said Mr. Cloe. Following the Finals, all horses will become available for adoption through competitive bidding, on Sunday at the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo. Fans of the mustangs can vote for a “Fan Favorite” beginning February 1 on the Extreme Mustang Makeover website. The two finalists will compete during the Sunday Finals for the title of “Fan Favorite”. To vote for your favorite mustang, go to www.extrememustangmakeover.com.

CLINIC DETAILS
Details of the daily clinics, lectures and workshops have been announced, promising a weekend with a wide variety of equine education, demonstrations and instruction. Clinicians and their presentations include:
Al Dunning, a professional trainer since 1970, has expertise in all facets of western events. He and his students have won 32 World and Reserve World titles, including AQHA World Championships in Reining, Cutting, Working Cow Horse and Western Riding. Al has developed a winning tradition with quarter horses that is well documented. He has given seminars and clinics all across the United States and in several foreign countries. At the Northwest Horse Fair 2010, Al will conduct clinics including: “Western Dressage – Using Dressage Principles to Benefit the Western Horse”; “Reining Basics Part 1 – Lead Changes”; “Using the Mechanical Cow – Essential Training for the Cutting Horse”, “Reining Basics, Part 2 – Stops and Rollbacks”; and “Reining Basics Part 3 – Circles and Turn-Arounds”.
George Williams is a prominent figure in both national and international dressage competition. He rode the Grand Prix mare Rocher, on the U.S. bronze medal Nations Cup Team in Aachen, Germany, in 2005. As a member of the U.S. Equestrian Team, he placed 5th at the 2003 World Cup Dressage Finals in Sweden. For 20 years, George served as a resident trainer and rider for The Tempel Lipizzans in Illinois. George is a popular clinician, and has coached numerous individual and team medalists at the North American Junior & Young Rider Championships. At the Northwest Horse Fair 2010, George will present 3 clinics: “Incorporating Leg Yielding Exercises into Your Dressage Training Program”; “Introduction to Collection: Exercises to Introduce, Improve & Demonstrate What Collection Can Ultimately Achieve”; and “Introducing Your Dressage Horse to Flying Changes…How to Know When He’s Ready and Exercises to Get You Started”.
Nick Karazissis joins the Northwest Horse Fair from California, where his Far West Farms is not only one of the oldest, but one of the most successful businesses on the West Coast in Equitation, Hunters and Show Jumping. Nick’s consistent show ring success has made him an extremely popular clinician. He’s been giving clinics throughout the United States for over 20 years. Nick is also a USEF “R” judge and has held his judge’s card for over 3 decades.
Nick’s sessions at the NW Horse Fair will include: “The Common Things All Good Riders Do When They Ride a Jump Course & How Gymnastics Improve the Form of Horse and Rider”; “The Cornerstones of Creating Balance and Connection in Your Horse & The Basics of Hunter Seat Equitation: Form Follows Function, Function Follows Form”; and “Everything You Wanted to Know About Judging and Were Afraid to Ask”.
Peggy Cummings is an internationally recognized equestrian clinician. Peggy has developed her Connected Riding® methods from years of training with riding masters throughout the U.S. and Europe, the study of Western and English disciplines and of human and equine movement, and a passion for helping people and horses learn easily. Peggy will present a number of Connected RidingÒ lectures and clinics at the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo, including a clinic and lecture on “Lighten Up! See How You Can Become Live Weight vs Dead Weight in the Saddle”. She will also present a 3 part lecture series on “Developing Your Eye”, including: “Part 1: Understand How Riding Helps or Hinders Horse’s Musculature for Movement”, “Part 2: Learn to Assess How Efficiently Your Horse is Using His Body”, and “Part 3: Learn Simple Exercises to Promote Better Posture and Core Strength in Your Horse”. Peggy’s presentations also include: a clinic on “Creating Bend & Suppleness for an Elegant Ride & a Healthy Horse”; “Power UP! Exercises to Unleash the Power of the Horse’s Hind End for More Impulsion and Forward Movement”; and 2 lectures: “Improving Your Horse’s Topline” and “What’s Connection Got to Do with It?”. Peggy will also feature a special clinic on Sunday as part of “LMF Feed Youth Day”. This clinic is designed especially for youth and their instructors and is called “Helping Our Horses Hear Us Better – Learn How to be More With Your Horse for an Easier & More Fun Ride”.
Steve Rother combines a unique blend of education and entertainment to teach a wide variety of people to improve the relationship and training tools with their horses. Steve mixes this early education with a background in working cattle, Ranch Roping, Reining, Cutting, Dressage, Jumping, Rodeo, Liberty, Trick Training and Mustang Taming to provide one of the most well rounded clinic programs offered today. By blending education with entertainment, and utilizing equine psychology, Steve helps people unlock the potential of their equine dreams. Steve comes to the Northwest Fair & Expo from his home in Hunters, Washington. During the Expo, Steve will present a series of clinics including: “Body Control – How to Gain Control of Your Horse’s Body”; a two part clinic on “Overcoming Trail Obstacles” and a two part clinic on “Overcoming Extreme Issues”.

TRADE SHOW & HORSES GALORE!
Shoppers will love the huge trade show, offering a broad selection of products and services for horse and farm enthusiasts. Two buildings with rows of shopping booths will feature horse trailers, feed, clothing and equipment for horse and rider, equine supplies, farm products, artwork, gifts and much more!
The Breed Showcase and Stallion Review will represent a wide variety of horse breeds, in a multitude of colors and sizes. From massive to miniature horses, from domestic to foreign breeds, horses will be led, ridden and driven in delightful demonstrations showing off the diversity of horses!

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION
Admission for the Thursday evening Equine Extravaganza and special Steve Rother clinic is a separate ticket, and cost is $10 per person. Ticket sales begin at 3pm Thursday. Cash only at the gate; no advance purchased tickets accepted that day.
Advance tickets for the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo are $10 per day for adults and $5 per day for children aged 6 to 12. Tickets at the gate are $12 per day for adults and $6 per day for children 6 to 12; children 5 and under get in free. Cash only at the gate. Advance tickets for the Northwest Horse Fair are on sale at select retail outlets throughout Oregon and Washington. A complete list of ticket outlets is available at www.equinepromotions.net . Advance ticket sales end Thursday March 18 at store closing time.
Sunday at the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo is “LMF Feed Youth Day”. Admission is free that day for Pony Club and 4-H members, 18 year of age and under, who show their current Club ID at the entrance gate.
Hours for the equine exposition are: Thursday, March 18 for the Equine Extravaganza and special clinic: 4pm to 8pm; Friday, March 19 from 10am to 8pm; Saturday March 20 from 9am to 8pm; and Sunday, March 21 from 9am to 6pm.
For more information on the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo, or the Extreme Mustang Makeover, go to www.equinepromotions.net, email jjcloe@equinepromotions.net or call 765-655-2107.
Sponsors for the 2010 Northwest Fair and Expo include: the presenting sponsor, SilverLite Trailers; Andis; Beelart Embroidery; Coastal Farm and Ranch; Guaranty RV; KRKT; LMF Feed; Purina Mills, LLC; and Northwest Rider, the official publication for the Northwest Fair and Expo.
No pets are allowed at the Northwest Fair and Expo, and videotaping of any event by the public is prohibited.

Authentic 1870’s Style Stock Saddle Is Grand Prize in Happy Trails Drawing

Apple Valley, CA. An exact replica of a Legendary 1870’s Stock Saddle, valued at more than $10,000 will be given away in a special prize drawing to benefit children-in-crisis. Proceeds from the drawing benefit the Cooper Home for abused children, a project of the Happy Trails Children’s Foundation. The foundation is a charitable, non-profit organization located in Apple Valley, CA, the long-time home of legendary Western entertainers Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.
Tickets for the saddle, made by well-known cowboy leather artist Will Ghormley, of Des Moines, IA, are $20 each or six for $100. The winning ticket will be drawn at END of TRAIL, Founder’s Ranch in New Mexico, at 5 p.m. on June 26, 2010. The winner need not be present to win! The winner will be notified by phone. You may check our web site for the winner’s name, on Monday following the drawing.
“Even if you don’t own a horse, this is a saddle anyone would be proud to display in their living room, den, office or business,” said Joel Dortch, Executive Director of Happy Trails Children’s Foundation. The outfit includes a unique Cavalry pattern combination halter/bridle with a low-port Cavalry bit, lead strap, reins, and officer’s rosettes; a matching breast collar with a brass heart in the center; single strap saddle pockets with built in holsters on each pocket for a single-action revolver (revolvers not included); a rifle scabbard complete with a genuine EMF Model 1892 .45 Colt caliber lever action rifle; saddle blanket; lariat; and a beautiful custom deluxe oak saddle stand.
This saddle is a magnificent and authentic hand-carved replica 1870’s stock saddle similar to those made famous in the Colorado Mountains and plains. This saddle has all the classic lines and details that were the hallmark of a fine stock saddle of the times. It is hand sewn and hand tooled; not dyed but oiled with virgin olive oil and put together exactly the way saddles were 130 years ago. This magnificent and historically accurate saddle was made for the recent hit movie Appaloosa, but never used.
Will Ghormley began making leather products in the 1970’s, while working on ranches in the High Country of southwest Colorado where he honed his leather crafting skills. In 1994, he began making leather goods full-time for Cowboy Action Shooters and Old West re-enactors. Later he began carving fine art paintings out of leather. His leather paintings have been collected by President George W. Bush as well as the Roy Rogers – Dale Evans Museum, Charlton Heston, radio commentator Paul Harvey, and many other notables. Ghormley’s saddles and gun leather have been featured in numerous film and television productions and he was voted “Best Period Saddle Maker 2004” by True West Magazine.
Tickets for the saddle drawing can be purchased by calling (760) 240-3330 or on-line at www.happytrails.org. American Express, Discover, MasterCard and VISA are accepted. Or you may send your check to: Happy Trails Children’s Foundation, 1870’s Stock Saddle Drawing, 10755 Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley, CA 92308. All donations are tax deductible.

Wellington, FL - January 26, 2010 - The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) continued a strong circuit this year in the second week of competition held January 20-24. The week featured the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, CSI 2* along with a full schedule of hunter, jumper, and equitation classes. The week two title sponsor was Purina Mills, and through Land O'Lakes Purina Feed, they are the exclusive horse feed sponsor of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival.

Land O'Lakes Purina Feed LLC (www.landolakesinc.com) is a national organization serving producers and their families through 4,700 local cooperatives and independent dealerships throughout the United States. The company, in combination with its wholly owned subsidiary Purina Mills, LLC, is North America's leading feed company, providing producers, cooperatives and dealers with an extensive line of animal feed, ingredients and services designed to help agricultural producers, dealers and cooperatives compete in the global marketplace.

Purina Mills was the title sponsor of Saturday night's grand prix, which was a very successful opening night event for the 2010 FTI WEF with more than 4,000 spectators. Mario Deslauriers (USA) and Urico, owned by Jane Clark, won the first major grand prix competition in the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, CSI 2*. Following behind Deslauriers in the awards presentation were Nick Skelton (GBR) and Carlo 273, owned by Beverly Widdowson, in second place and Yann Candele (CAN) on Susan Grange's Pitareusa in third.

Mario Deslauriers and Urico, a nine-year-old Dutch gelding by Zandor Z, were very neat and quick throughout the twisting jump-off course. Deslauriers made a great slice across "The Breakers" wall jump and kept moving forward through short turns. They waited down the last line to keep the final, delicate gate vertical standing, and then crossed the timers in 40.34 seconds.

"I set the pace," Deslauriers said afterwards. "My horse is very, very quick. I was a little slow to the far oxer, but other than that I was pretty much on track. My horse has a big step and is extremely quick in the air. If I can keep it pretty steady and smooth, people have to run. I was lucky that no one beat me. Yann beat me, but he had one (fence) down. It was a great class."

Deslauriers is a native Canadian and became an American citizen in September of 2009. He first rode for the United States team at the Nations Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in November last year, but this is his first grand prix win as an American. "It feels great!" he exclaimed. "Jane was here tonight, and everybody was here to watch. It's always good to start on a good note. The (World Equestrian Games) trials are coming up, and we've got important classes. The horse seems to be in good form. We should have a good season."

Jumper Highlights: Wednesday through Sunday

In the opening class on Wednesday, the $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Time First Round, 29 entries went to post. There were 17 clear rounds, and the fastest of those was Pablo Barrios (VEN) on G&C Sinatra, owned by Barrios as well as Gustavo and Carolina Mirabal of G&C Farm in Wellington, FL, who crossed the timers in 55.151 seconds. The early leader was McLain Ward on Miss Liberty 7, owned by Overlook Farm, who finished second in a time of 56.285 seconds. Angela Covert-Lawrence and Unica Van De Roshoeve, owned by Eastwood Group, were also quick and clear in 56.369 seconds to finish in third place.

Margie Engle (USA) of Wellington, FL, returned to the winner's circle at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) with Tosca 290, owned by Hidden Creek Farm, in the $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round Two on Thursday.

On her first horse Aslan, Kochetova returned first in the jump-off and set the time to beat in 43.98 seconds with no faults. That would hold up for third place in the class. The last to go was the very dangerous Leslie Howard on Lennox Lewis 2, second place finishers in last week's speed derby. Howard had a very fast pace throughout the course, but finished just off the winning pace in 41.62 seconds to place second.

Engle and the quick little mare Tosca 290, a 10-year-old KWPN by Numero Uno, galloped around the course and finished clear in a time of 47.13 seconds to move to the lead. Engle had to watch five other horses finish the jump-off before she would lead the victory gallop.

Earlier in the day, Pablo Barrios (VEN) scored yet another win early in the circuit. This time it came in the $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Time First Jump-off. He and G&C Blanchee, owned by Gustavo and Carolina Mirabal, were the fastest double clear in 36.130 seconds for the win. Anglea Covert-Lawrence (CAN) and Utan, owned by Eastwood Equine Inc., were also double clear for second place in 38.088 seconds. Fellow Canadian Ainsley Vince and Frieda, owned by the KMA Group, were third in 38.217 seconds with no faults.

Last proved to be the best in Friday's exciting Spy Coast 1.40m Speed Challenge at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Marie Hecart of France rode Ryan Star du Rezidal, owned by Ashland Stables, to a very fast win in today's speed class, posting a time just four-tenths of a second faster than the second place finishers, Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Palouchin de Ligny. Hecart and Ryan Star du Rezidal have been paired together for a year, and the talented horse was gelded just four months ago. Hecart is a professional rider from France and rides for Olympic gold medalist Eric Lamaze of Canada and Ashland Stables.

Over a field of 12 in the jump-off, Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Kilkenny Randall Z raced to a fast double clear result to win Sunday's $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic over Eliza Shuford on Little John and Reed Kessler with Mika.

Going second to last in the jump-off, Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Kilkenny Randall Z, a 16-year-old BWP gelding by Randel Z, zipped around the twisting jump-off course. They made a sharp turn back to the final line and Kilkenny Randall Z was able to fit in the two strides for the combination and soar over the final oxer to finish clear. They lowered the winning time to 48.868 seconds. She described Kilkenny Randall Z as "a total gentleman," and went on to say, "He's really easy to ride, very classical to ride. Even though he's 15, mentally he just loves going in the ring. He's a real showman. It makes my job easier."

Hunter Highlights: Thursday through Sunday

Emerging victorious on Thursday to earn the championship in the Western Hay and Suncoast Shavings Second Year Green Working Hunters were Shane Sweetnam and Take Note, owned by Lindsey Tomeu. Take Note received a second place, third, and seventh over fences and won the under saddle to clinch the championship. The reserve champion award went to Louise Serio and Kid Rock, owned by Paige Cole.

Sweetnam originally hails from Ireland, but now bases out of Wellington, FL, and Lexington, KY, where he rides for Spy Coast Farm and Sweet Oak Farm. Sweetnam describes Take Note, an 8-year-old Swedish Warmblood, as "very talented and beautiful to ride." "The jump is fantastic, he's never spooky, and he's very rideable," Sweetnam commented on his mount.

Mimi Tashjian and Capital Blue continued their two-week winning streak when they picked up the championship in section A of the Camping World Adult Amateur Hunter 51 & Over division. Tashjian has only competed twice on Capital Blue, owned by Scott Stewart, and has earned the championship both times.

Capital Blue is a 6-year-old gelding that Tashjian's trainers Scott Stewart and Ken Berkley recently imported to America, so this is his first season at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Tashjian and her trainer of 15 years, Scott Stewart, share the ride on Capital Blue, whom Stewart shows in the Pre-Green Hunters as well.

Tashjian and Capital Blue received scores of 85 in both rounds over fences on Friday. The duo won both over fences classes, as well as a second place over fences on Thursday, to claim the championship. The reserve champion was awarded to Glen Senk and Winter's Tale, owned by Fashion Farm. Senk and the flashy grey won an over fences and the under saddle class.

Junior hunters were showcased on Saturday in the Rost Arena, where Chase Boggio and Norgan Inc.'s Rockford picked up the tricolor in the Large Junior Hunter 16-17 division. Boggio and Rockford won the handy hunter class, and they placed first and second over fences for a grand total of 26 points to claim the championship. The reserve champion ribbon went to Kelsey Thatcher and Pony Lane Farm's Gianni.

Rockford is a new ride for Boggio, who has only shown the bay gelding once prior to this weekend. Rockford also shows in the Second Year Green Hunters with Nora Thomas. Boggio is thankful for the ride on Rockford whom he says is "never fresh, doesn't really look at the jumps at all, and is very easy to ride. You can just get on and go."

Meredith Darst added another tricolor to her list of accolades with the championship win in the Gotham North Small Pony Hunters on Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone. Darst and Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone, who is owned by Lochmoor Stables, won the first class over fences on Saturday and claimed the first and second places over fences on Sunday to secure the championship.

Darst is always in high demand at the horse show, and her feet never seem to stay on the ground for too long, since she shows about 11 ponies and horses per weekend. It is no surprise that she is such a popular catch rider, seeing as her talents range from the Small Pony Hunters to the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division, in which Darst was reserve champion on All Seasons Farm's In The Black.

Other winners this weekend in the Small Pony Hunters included Star Command, ridden by Alden Price and owned by Christa Carson, as well as Ballou, who was ridden by Daisy Farish and is owned by Victoria Colvin. Ballou and Farish were also awarded the reserve championship in the Small Pony Hunter division.

For full results, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com

AQHA and Wood Ranch Team Together to Provide 2010 Road to the Horse Remuda

The American Quarter Horse has long been a symbol of the American West and the spirit of the cowboy. The 2010 Road to the Horse Remuda, sponsored by the American Quarter Horse Association, will be brought to you by Wood Ranch of Heber Springs, Arkansas who will bringing ten outstanding three-year-old colts for the World Championship of Colt-Starting on March 6-7, 2010 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Raising Quarter Horses since 1956, the 190-year-old Wood Ranch breeds around 100 mares each year, many from WT Waggoner Estate, Four Sixes Ranch, Haythorn and the RA Brown Ranch. With an excellent all-around breeding program, Wood Ranch owner Jody Wood says that it was easy for him to hand-pick the geldings for Road to the Horse.

Breeding AQHA, National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) and National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) money earners by sires with true-blue bloodlines, Wood Ranch has grown a reputation for performance horses that go above and beyond expectation. Contrary to normal management practices, Wood has let the remuda remain as untouched as possible. In order to meet Road to the Horse requirements, the ten colts were gelded as yearlings and turned out, with the exception of necessary medical handling.

“Generally we start training on all our horses when they are two-year-olds but for Road to the Horse we let them continue to grow and mature for another year. That extra year ensures that they are physically and mentally ready to participate in the competition,” says Wood.

Having provided the horses for Road to the Horse in 2008, Wood is no greenhorn when it comes to preparing a remuda. Feeding schedules, safety precautions and transportation to the event are all aspects that must be carefully planned and executed. With the help of Nutrena, the official feed sponsor of Road to the Horse, Wood has the horses on a schedule that will prepare them to look and feel their best for the 2010 event. Wood has fed SafeChoice, by Nutrena, since 2007 when he was preparing to supply the remuda for 2008.

“Nutrena was the feed sponsor the first year that provided horses for Road to the Horse. Since then we have come to depend on the Nutrena's nutritional consistency. Our horses do extremely well on SafeChoice. It keeps them in excellent shape,” says Wood.

Wood will also be working with Road to the Horse Boss Wrangler Adam Tarpley and round pen sponsor WW Livestock Manufacturing. While at the event, they will design a handling system that will provide the utmost safety precautions to ensure the well-being of each colt throughout the event.

Wood Ranch will have a booth at Road to the Horse where spectators can learn more about the ranch and their horses. To learn more before the event, visit
www.woodranchquarterhorses.com. To buy your tickets for the 2010 World Championship of Colt-Starting and see the Wood Ranch Quarter Horses in action, visit www.roadtothehorse.com or call 877-772-5425.

Road to the Horse

Road to the Horse, the World Championship of Colt-Starting is unlike any other event in the equine or entertainment industry. The two-day sold out event matches three of the country's best horse trainers and clinicians of today against one another as they train unbroken colts to ride in just a few short hours in front of a packed live audience and television cameras. By combining education, edge-of-your-seat suspense, entertainment and the love of the horse, Road to the Horse has been responsible for solidifying the position of today’s horsemanship heroes and launching the careers of tomorrow’s hottest new stars. In the process, the event itself has become a catalyst for the advancement of natural horsemanship. Hosted by Rick Lamb, of RFD-TV’s The Horse Show with Rick Lamb, spectators are guaranteed not only to have a good time, but also to walk away with training knowledge that will improve their relationship with horses.

Road to the Horse is proud to partner with many outstanding companies across the equine industry including Road to the Horse presenting sponsor, Western Horseman and strategic partner AQHA along with Nutrena, Quarter Horse News, Cinch/Cruel Girl, Roll-A-Cone Manufacturing, Horses Magazine, Martin Saddlery, Wahl Clipper, Gist Silversmiths, John's Ariat Country, Rockin' J Horse Stalls, CSI Saddlepads, Horsecity.com, Extreme Mustang Makeover, WW Livestock, the Tennessee Walking Horse Association Breeders & Exhibitors Association, Hoofbeats Magazine, Horse South Magazine, Salt Block Gazette and Horsemen's Roundup. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on the 2010 Road to the Horse visit www.roadtothehorse.com or call 325-736-5000.

Tina Konyot and Calecto V Win Draper Equine Therapy Sponsored Grand Prix at Gold Coast Dressage Opener CDI

West Palm Beach, FL (January 26, 2010) – Tina Konyot, and her Danish stallion Calecto V, rode away the winners of the Open Grand Prix class at the Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener CDI at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Draper Equine Therapy, makers of therapeutic horse and rider products featuring the innovative “smart fiber” textile Celliant™/Holofiber®, sponsored Konyot’s class and awarded her with a Draper Saddle Pad.
Konyot teaches and trains at her farm in North Stonington, Connecticut and at her parents’ farm in Stuart, Florida. She believes Calecto has the quality to be a spectacular contender for the 2010 World Equestrian Games.
Konyot said she rode conservatively in the Grand Prix because it is still early in the year. “I’m very happy with our ride and it was a good class. I am much appreciative that Draper sponsored the class and I look forward to trying their saddle pad.”
Konyot is accustomed to being in the winner’s circle, and her accomplishments include being short-listed for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Trials and the 2004 Athens Olympic Trials. “We are really excited that Tina won this class as she had a very impressive ride. We foresee a great year ahead for the pair,” said Kat Wojtylak, Product Manager of Draper Equine Therapy. “The Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener was a very exciting show and it was a great start to the season ahead. South Florida is the place to be during the winter months with national and international talents getting in top form for the WEG. Draper is thrilled to be supporting the amazing talents that attend these shows and can’t wait to see how the rest of the season goes.”
Draper Equine Therapy produces products for horses including saddle pads, sheets, blankets, bandages and wraps. Products for riders include T-shirts, socks, sleep liners, joint support sleeves/wraps, and back belts. “Draper products are made of Celliant/Holofiber which has been proven to help reduce pain, increase oxygen levels and help balance overall body temperature,” Wojtylak said. “These inorganic natural minerals work with the energy released from the body and are designed to recycle this energy back to the body to improve health and overall well being of the wearer.”
For more information on Draper Equine Therapy, visit their website at www.draperequinetherapy.com.

Janine Weatherby Sweeps Top Spots in NWSS $40,000 Jack Daniels Grand Prix

By: Lincoln Rogers

The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) rode into Denver again this year, marking the 104th year for the historic venue. Amid the cattle shows and rodeos a more formal night breaks out every year for the $40,000 Jack Daniels Grand Prix. It's a time for cleaning up the cowboy hats and boots, and dusting off tuxedos and maybe some evening attire to go along with them.

The fourth rider in through the gate today was Karen Cudmore on Ceonto, a big white Holsteiner, and one of the Rocky Mountain region's favorite riders didn't disappoint with the first clean round in 88.718 seconds. Two riders later was Cudmore's best friend, Janine Weatherby, and the Nebraskan matched the clean round with one of her own aboard a big bay named Panache in 87.859 seconds. It was evident the fans wanted to cheer for clean rounds, and the crowd was beginning to party, but it lost its momentum when nine more riders failed to go clear, including several disqualifications.

Lynn Walsh and MacArthur Park Top Amateur-Owner Hunters

By: Jessica Nemzoff


On Saturday at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, Lynn Walsh of Magnolia, Texas, and her own MacArthur Park topped the highly competitive Amateur-Owner Hunter 36 and Over division to take home the championship honors. Reserve champion went to Walsh's dear friend, Becky Gochman of New York, New York, aboard Sambalino.

Reflecting on the day's success, Walsh was "so excited," and explained that, "today is a very special day, because Becky and I are such good friends, and for both of us to be champion and reserve, well, I'm just over the top excited." Walsh calls MacArthur Park, or 'Mac', "just such a kind and gentle horse," and added that "when people come to the ranch where we live and don't know how to ride, but want to go out on the trails, they ride Mac!"

Mario Deslauriers Pilots Urico to $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix Win

By: Kenneth Kraus


The first of the Saturday night main events at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival was a dandy, and if tonight's $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix was a preview of what's in store for the rest of this season, buckle up and hold on to your seats folks, we're in for a wild, wild ride.

A starting field of forty top show jumpers lined out for what's being billed in this season's WEF promotional campaign as Saturday Night Lights, and apparently someone must have been knocking on some doors and getting the word out because a really decent sized, and very enthusiastic crowd showed up on the tour's first night time offering.

Clean rounds were certainly at a premium, as only six horse and rider combinations mastered the first round course. Mario Deslauriers and Urico led the during the jumo-off and never gave up the lead. Flat out flying from start to finish, Deslauriers never let up on the gas, ripping across the finish line in a blazing 40.34 seconds.

"They had to catch me. I set the pace and made sure they had to work to catch me," said tonight's winner. "My horse is very, very quick. I was a little slow to the far oxer, but other than that I was pretty much on track the whole way. My horse has a really big step and is extremely quick in the air. If I can keep it pretty steady and smooth, the other people have to run to catch me," he smiled.

Nick Skelton and his rising star Carlo 273 were ready for the challenge and appeared right on Deslauriers' time throughout the jump-off. When the scoreboard flashed up a finish time of 40.51 seconds, the crowd let out a collective audible groan. He missed by 2/10ths of a second, even though he looked like he might be able to overtake the leaders. "That's because I do a lot of flapping around out there. It makes it look like I'm going really fast," laughed Skelton.

Third to go in the jump-off, Yann Candele and Pitareusa, wiped out Deslauriers' top time, but the chase for tonight's top prize came at the expense of a rail down at the double combination. Candele posted an amazing time of 37.98 seconds, the fastest of the night, but with the four faults added to the score sheet, the pair would finish in third place.

"When you've got Nick Skelton, Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, Yann Candele coming behind you, you never know if you've gone fast enough. I was lucky that no one beat me," admitted Deslauriers. "Yann beat me, but he had one (fence) down. It was a great class."


To read more about the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix at the Winter Equestrian Festival visit PhelpsSports.com

Tennessee Thunder and Dodd "Slam Dunk" A Magical Win while Red Ryder and Leach Score with the Fans

Georgetown, Texas, January 24, 2010 - Tennessee Thunder, a five-year-old sorrel American Mustang, proved he was at the top of his game when trainer Chase Dodd leapt from a small trampoline, onto the gelding's back and then stuffed a basketball into a hoop to a standing ovation to take the win and $3,500 at the second Mustang Magic competition in Fort Worth, Texas.

If the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo ever wondered if more people could be stuffed into its John Justin arena, that question was answered January 23 when an estimated crowd of 3,000 spilled over into aisles and stairwells in the 1,900-seat venue to experience the Magic of the Mustang.

Mustang Magic, powered by Wheaties FuelTM with support from OmniAmerican Bank, featured 10 trainers who, for the previous 120 days, gentled 10 American Mustangs they received in September to compete for the $10,000 purse and the title of Mustang Magic champion.

Dodd captured the judges attention early on in the compulsory round when he "led" Tennessee Thunder through the in hand course without a halter, then proceeded to perform a flawless riding pattern. He repeated the same hands-free technique following the slam-dunk in the freestyle as he moved the horse, wild only 120 days earlier, through a bridleless routine to the tune of "Southern Voices."

This was Dodd's second Mustang Makeover win, having captured the Midwest Mustang Makeover championship in 2009 in Madison, Wis. Tennessee Thunder was placed for adoption with the returning support of Madeleine Pickens with a bid of $10,000.

"This was an exceptional group of trainers and an exceptional event," said Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) Executive Director Patti Colbert. "I have to say these trainers poured their hearts and souls into these horses and it really showed throughout the competition."

Takin' it to the Fans
Red Ryder and Logan Leach, voted the overall Mustang Magic Fan Favorite by the throng after 200,000 votes were received in on-line voting, grabbed the crowd's heart and admiration after an extraordinary bridleless performance. Red Ryder and Leach executed a freestyle performance that brought the crowd to their feet with a bridleless routine that was both beautiful and without fault, garnering perfect 10 scores from all four judges. An honorary fan favorite title was also given to George Gregory of Saint Jo, Tex., who led the on-line voting but was forced to withdraw from competition for health reasons.

Excitement escalated during the adoption after a jaw-dropping bid of $29,000 was made by Joy Murray, mother of world champion cowboy Ty Murray, to adopt the horse. The bid was made even sweeter when it was announced that the bid was made on behalf of Western Horseman magazine in the creation of a partnership with the MHF to promote Red Ryder as an ambassador for the iconic American Mustang.

"I haven't cried in 20 years," said Logan, as he realized he would be able to take Red Ryder home with him. "I really wanted to keep this horse. He has more heart than almost any horse I've ever trained and when it got past $10,000 I knew that wasn't going to happen. But, now this - this is incredible."

All 10 horses were placed for adoption with Tennessee Thunder adopting for $10,000 with an average of $2,900 on nine head.

Produced by the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Mustang Magic is the only invitational Extreme Mustang Makeover event and featured Dodd of Soddy Daisy, Tenn., George Gregory of Saint Jo, Tex., whose horse was shown by Sonny Martin of Muenster, Texas, Weldon Hawley of Electra, Tex., Leach of Tucson, Ariz., Bill Lopez of Norman, Okla., Mark Lyon of Arlington, Neb., Joe Misner of Hamilton, Tex., Betsy Moles of, Woodstock, Ga., Joel Sheridan of Acton, Calif., and Jonathan "J-Dub" Weisiger of Ft. Worth, Tex.

To learn more, go to extrememustangmakeover.com or call 512.869.3225.

Results:

Placing, First, Last, City and State, Horse Name, Color, Foal Date, HMA, Adopted for
1. Chase Dodd, Soddy Daisy, Tenn, Tennessee Thunder, Chestnut, 2005, Coyote Lake , OR, $10,000
2. Logan Leach, Tucson, Ariz., Red Ryder, Dun, 2005, Maverick-Medicine, NV, $29,000*
3. Bill Lopez, Norman, Okla., Caballo de Colorres, Pinto, 2005, Maverick-Medicine, NV, $3,500
4. Mark Lyon, Atherton, Neb, Pilgrim, Buckskin, 2005, Buck and Bald, NV, $150
5. Joel Sheridan, Acton, Calif., Joaquin , Sorrel, 2005, Coyote Lake , OR, $1,900
6. J-Dub Weisiger, Fort Worth, Tex., Two Tone Texan, Pinto, 2005, Johnnie, NV, $4,000
7. Joe Misner, Hamilton, Tex., Lonestar, Grey, 2005, Saulsbury, NV, $900
8. Weldon Hawley, Electra, Tex., Rounder, Bay, 2005, Maverick-Medicine, NV, $1,700
9. Betsy Moles, Woodstock, Ga., Cody Coyote, Sorrel, 2005, Maverick-Medicine, NV, $3,000

*promotional package, not included in adoption average

Did not place. George Gregory, Saint Jo,Tex., Doc Holliday, Buckskin, 2005, Owyhee, NV, $1,500.
About the Mustang Heritage Foundation
The mission of the Mustang Heritage Foundation and the goal of the Extreme Mustang Makeover is to increase the adoption of mustangs across the country. The Mustang Heritage Foundation created the Extreme Mustang Makeover event to showcase the recognized value of mustangs through a national training competition.


About the Fort Worth Stock Show
From a one-day affair with a few head of cattle tethered under ice-laden shade trees, the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show has grown into a three-week extravaganza with international appeal for exhibitors and visitors alike. More than 900,000 visitors packed into
the Will Rogers Complex in 2009 for the 113th Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show. The legendary 24-day event will return in 2010 running from January 15 through February 7. For more information go to fwssr.com.


About the Bureau of Land Management
The BLM manages more land - 253 million acres - than any other Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The Bureau, with a budget of about $1 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.For more information, visit wildhorseandburro.blm.gov or call 866-4MUSTANGS.

Cavalor Returns As Title Sponsor Of The 2010 Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series

Tampa, FL-January 26, 2010-Cavalor, which successfully launched its complete line of equine supplements, care and feed products in North America last year, has returned as the official title sponsor of the 2010 Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series.

The Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series will see classes at more than 100 horse shows across the country before culminating in Year-End Championships at the National Horse Show in November.

The Series hosts separate divisions for junior and amateur-owner riders in two Conferences-the East Conference and the West Conference. Series standings are used to help determine junior and amateur-owner entries for the National Horse Show.

"We were very pleased with our involvement in the Series last year, and are looking forward to continuing our support of the Series in 2010," said Philippe Collard, President of Cavalor, Inc. "Cavalor is proud of its affiliation with the Show Jumping Hall of Fame, as both organizations represent quality, success and excellence."

As an ongoing effort to honor the excellence and success of those riders participating in the Series, Cavalor will also continue its sponsorship of a Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series Rider of The Month Award. The one rider every month who has accumulated the most points in the Series for that month will be chosen to receive this honor.

"We are thrilled that Cavalor will continue to honor a Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series Rider of the Month," said George Morris, President of the Show Jumping Hall of Fame. "Cavalor recognizes the importance of acknowledging the effort and success of riders in the Series, and we are very much looking forward to having them on board with us again for 2010."

Over the past 20 years, Cavalor has built an international reputation as the world leader in equine nutrition for high performance horses. Today, Cavalor products are sold and used in 45 countries by champion riders like Jos Lansink, Eric Lamaze, Ian Millar, Anky Van Grunsven, Steffen Peters and Hillary Dobbs. Cavalor products include a complete line of feed, supplement and care products. All are the result of years of intense research and development, thorough testing, selection of the highest quality ingredients, strict manufacturing and quality control processes.For more information about Cavalor and its complete line of products, please visit the Cavalor website at www.cavalor.com
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The 2010 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series is also sponsored by the Lake Placid Horse Show Association, Practical Horseman, Langer Equestrian Group and Taylor Harris Insurance Services.

The Series is designed to give amateur-owner and junior riders an opportunity to compete at higher levels and serves as a proving ground for many riders who aspire to someday represent the United States in international competition.

The Show Jumping Hall of Fame was organized to promote the sport of show jumping and to immortalize the legends of the men, women and horses who have made great contributions to the sport. The Show Jumping Hall of Fame conducts the Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series, held under Grand Prix rules and specifications. The Show Jumping Hall of Fame has moved from its long-time home at Busch Gardens in Tampa, FL. An announcement about the Museum's new home will be made shortly.

Any horse show offering a class that meets all the criteria set forth in the 2010 Show Jumping Hall of Fame Series specifications and has prize money of at least $1,000 is eligible to be part of the Series.

For more information about the Show Jumping Hall of Fame, including the 2010 Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series schedule, please visit the Show Jumping Hall of Fame website at www.showjumpinghalloffame.net.

Stadium Jumping, Inc. Hosts 2010 Tampa Equestrian Festival March 24 - April 10, 2010

Tampa, FL - January 26, 2010 - Stadium Jumping, Inc., one of the nation's leading horse show production companies, is pleased to announce the official dates of the 2010 Tampa Equestrian Festival and 38th Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational. The world's top equestrians will come together for three weeks of competition, held from March 24 - April 10, 2010 at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, FL.

The Tampa Equestrian Festival will kick-off its three weeks of competition with the Suncoast Internationale that is scheduled for March 24-28, 2010. It will be followed by the Tampa Bay Classic CSI 2*-W, which begins on March 31 and runs thru April 4. The final week of the festival is the Tournament of Champions CSI, which will be held March 31 thru April 4.

The 38th Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational will be the highlight event on the final day of competition, April 10, at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Thirty of the world's top horses and riders will gather to compete under the lights during one of the premier show jumping events in the United States.

There will be numerous other feature classes during the Tampa Equestrian Festival. The second week of competition, The Tampa Bay Classic, will include the $30,000 Tampa Bay Welcome Stake on Thursday, April 1, and the $50,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier CSI 2*-W Grand Prix of Tampa on Sunday, April 4. This will be the final qualifying event for the 2010 World Cup Finals in Geneva, Switzerland.

During the final week, the Tournament of Champions, the $30,000 Grand Prix of Florida CSI will be held on Wednesday, April 7, in addition to the $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational.

The show will also feature three weeks of 'AA' rated hunter competition with some of the top hunter horses and riders in the nation. The Tampa Bay Classic is a World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) recognized hunter competition. The WCHR is an awards program started by the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation, and the awards are presented, on both a national and regional level, to Pony, Junior, Amateur, Professional, Adult and Children's hunter riders who accumulate the most points at WCHR designated horse shows throughout the year.

During the Tampa Bay Classic, Stadium Jumping, Inc. will host a $5,000 WCHR Handy Hunter Classic. This exciting event will feature the nation's top hunters, as they compete during the evening in the Covered Arena on Saturday, April 3, 2010.

For more information on Stadium Jumping, Inc. and the 2010 Tampa Equestrian Festival please call (941) 744-5465

Chris Hickey and Cabana Boy Win Equilite 2010 Grooming & Conditioning Award at Gold Coast Dressage

West Palm Beach, FL (January 26, 2010) – Hilltop Farm’s Cabana Boy, and trainer Chris Hickey, won the Equilite 2010 Grooming & Conditioning Award during the Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener CDI, thanks to Cabana Boy’s sparkly coat and fantastic condition. Sponsored by Equilite, makers of award-winning herbal animal health products and supplement blends, Hickey and Cabana Boy were awarded a giant tote overflowing with Equilite products, including Equilite’s award-winning Sore No More®.

“Cabana Boy looked great today thanks to his groom Yvette LaRue,” Hickey said. “Yvette does a great job and takes pride in the way she cares for her horses.”
LaRue fondly calls Cabana Boy her “baby” and was thrilled that he took home Equilite’s top honors for his shiny coat. She said that part of his shine is due to “lots of currying.” Hickey added that Cabana Boy’s excellent condition is a result of turn out, a mid-day workout and a daily workout on a walking mill. “When he’s at Hilltop he hacks up and down the hills and that really helps,” Hickey said.

Cabana Boy’s sire, Contucci, a Hanoverian stallion who stands at Hilltop, was awarded the Dressage Sire of the Year title. Hilltop owner Jane MacElree was equally thrilled that Cabana Boy earned the grooming and conditioning award and also praised his groom. “Yvette does a fantastic job of turning out horses and they always sparkle,” MacElree said.
“It is a pleasure to be sponsoring the Equilite Grooming & Conditioning award and we offer our congratulations to Chris, Yvette, Jane and Cabana Boy,” said Stacey Small, CEO of Equilite. “The recyclable Equilite tote they won was filled with products, and I am sure Yvette will be thrilled with the selection. Our products will help her to continue keeping all of Hilltop Farm’s horses looking wonderful.”

For more information on Equilite products, visit their website at www.equilite.com or call 1-800-942-5483.

About Equilite

Equilite is part of the Arenus family of products. Arenus is a premier provider of innovative health and nutrition products for pets and horses. A growing division within Novus Nutrition Brands LLC., a global company dedicated to animal performance

Jennifer Benoit and Fruhlich Win Sho Clothes Sponsored Intermediaire II at Gold Coast Dressage Opener CDI

West Palm Beach, FL (January 26, 2010) – Jennifer Benoit and her Danish gelding Fruhlich were all smiles after winning the Intermediaire II class, sponsored by Sho Clothes, at the Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener CDI. Benoit had even more to smile about when she was awarded a cooler by Sho Clothes, an upscale dressage boutique in Wellington that specializes in the latest and most fashionable dressage apparel for show and play.
“It’s really an honor to win this award,” Benoit said. “I’m so pleased that Sho Clothes sponsors the class. I’ve known Sho Clothes for quite a while and they have great quality products.”

Benoit, who recently married, found out only days before the show that she had severely herniated a disc in her back. “I wore a back brace but I wasn’t even sure I was going to be able to ride,” Benoit said. “My horse really took care of me.”
Benoit is studying to get her judges license and currently has her “r” license and is working on obtaining her “R.” “Jennifer is a wonderful dressage rider and we were thrilled to award her with the Sho Clothes cooler,” said Betsy Rebar Sell, who co-owns Sho Clothes with Michele Hundt. “We wish her the best of luck with a speedy recovery with her back injury and also congratulate her on working toward earning her judge’s licenses.”
The Sho Clothes award and cooler represents the commitment Sho Clothes has made to the dressage community through the years. The smart looking “logo” on the cooler was designed by Hundt and features 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.” Held the second Tuesday night of each month, “Shop Talk” has become a hot spot for riders to gather with top professionals in the equine industry.

The Sho Clothes Sho Room, located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington, boasts a wide variety of the finest dressage riding clothes, apparel, jewelry and dressage accessories available. For more information visit their website at www.shoclothes.com.

HorseGirlTV: Georgina Bloomberg, How Does Anky Keep Fit & Daniela Stransky Secchi

Hubert, North Carolina January 26, 2010 Tune in. Tack up.® with HorseGirlTV® to watch this months interview with Georgina Bloomberg. Angelea had the unique opportunity to sit down with international rider Georgina Bloomberg to discuss how she’s able to juggle an intense school schedule at NYU, training a string of top mounts and still finding a bit of quiet personal time with her horses.

HorseGirl Mail Minute: Stephanie from Idado wants to know how does Anky stay so fit? Anky explains how she maintains energy through her full days of training horses, humans, attending regular openings, signings AND clinics too. While Michelle from Wyoming wants to know, what’s the most profound thing you learned training with Anky van Grunsven? Angelea explains her major take aways from training with this top international dressage competitor. Check out all the latest webisode at www.HorseGirlTV.com.

HorseGirl Of The Month: January's HorseGirl Of The Month is Miss Katy Haupt. HorseGirlTV® interviewed Katy to find out what she does for fun? Where would she vacation? HorseGirl Of The Month is an online interview of both professional and amateur HorseGirl's (and guys!) alike! To be considered just join Team HorseGirlTV online (for FREE) at http://www.horsegirltv.com/join.php. All interviewees receive great products from our supporters!

Giveaways: HorseGirlTV® and Equestrian Collections have teamed up to give away an Anky Remy Carriet Dressage Saddle http://bit.ly/8iUgLN Drawing and announcement will be held in March.

About HorseGirlTV
HorseGirlTV® is the leading equine-based Internet series hosted by Angelea Kelly Walkup producing educational and entertaining webisodes. The goal at HorseGirlTV® is to educate the equine community while simultaneous entertaining and educating mainstreams audiences exposing the wonderful world of horses to the world thus enriching and expanding our industry. HorseGirlTV® is equine entertainment for the wired generation! Website address: www.HorseGirlTV.com.

AQHA Welcomes Dressage as an Official Class

The American Quarter Horse Journal, January 25, 2010 – Dressage is now an official AQHA class – one in which you can earn AQHA points, qualify for AQHA Incentive Fund earnings and compete for year-end awards. Beginning at Training Level 4, AQHA dressage classes will be held within existing classes at competitions licensed by the United States Dressage Federation or United States Equestrian Federation.
The same USDF-USEF judges will preside over the AQHA classes; the only additional requirement is that the judges must be AQHA members. Exhibitors must also be current members of AQHA, and the horse must be a registered American Quarter Horse. A competition license fee of $85, good for the lifetime of the horse, is also required. The shows must be approved by AQHA at least 60 days in advance.

Horses competing in dressage are given scores, expressed in percentages. The Quarter Horse show industry has always been a point-driven system so AQHA has created a conversion table to change dressage scores into AQHA points. To see the conversion table, go to www.aqha.com/showing/guidetoshowing/dressage.html and click on “frequently asked questions.”

In addition to awarding points, AQHA is recognizing the three high-point American Quarter Horses at each of the nine USEF-USDF Regional Championship shows in 2010 and has also created a high-point recognition program for the open, amateur and youth divisions in each level of dressage competition. Amateur and youth eligibility is based on criteria found in the AQHA Handbook of Rules and Regulations.

If you’re interested in getting your American Quarter Horse started in dressage, America’s Horse – AQHA’s membership magazine – initiated a year-long series on Training Level dressage in the January-February 2010 issue. For more information, search for “dressage” on americashorsedaily.com. Included in the search results, you’ll find an excerpt from “The USDF Guide to Dressage,” written by Jennifer O. Bryant and much more.

The United States Dressage Federation is giving AQHA members a 10 percent discount on the guide books. Visit www.aqha.com/showing/guidetoshowing/dressage.html to find the offer code and link. Enter the code at checkout.

AQHA welcomes comments regarding the new dressage program. To submit a comment, e-mail shows@aqha.org.
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

Save The Date! Open House at RJ Custom Furniture on the Winter Equestrian Festival Show Grounds

EVENT: RJ Custom Furniture owned by Roy and Jana Barbe from Chicago, Illinois will be showcasing their custom built furniture for everyone at the Winter Equestrian Festival. Come see the many options built out of real jumps and designed to client's specifications. RJ Custom Furniture is known for its beds and will be displaying a number of unique pieces at the show.

WHAT: An open house with drinks and food for all ages and a great opportunity to see models built by RJ Custom Furniture.

WHERE: Located along the cobblestone road of Vendor Village, on the main show grounds, at Winter Equestrian Festival.

WHEN: Saturday February 13, 2010 from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM

ABOUT RJ CUSTOM FURNITURE: RJ Custom Furniture is a family owned, family oriented business specializing in turning creative furniture ideas into reality. The furniture can be customized to any hobbies, sports, or other interests.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.RJCustomFurniture.com or call 773-671-4767

AQHA Welcomes Dressage as an Official Class

The American Quarter Horse Journal, January 25, 2010 – Dressage is now an official AQHA class – one in which you can earn AQHA points, qualify for AQHA Incentive Fund earnings and compete for year-end awards. Beginning at Training Level 4, AQHA dressage classes will be held within existing classes at competitions licensed by the United States Dressage Federation or United States Equestrian Federation.
The same USDF-USEF judges will preside over the AQHA classes; the only additional requirement is that the judges must be AQHA members. Exhibitors must also be current members of AQHA, and the horse must be a registered American Quarter Horse. A competition license fee of $85, good for the lifetime of the horse, is also required. The shows must be approved by AQHA at least 60 days in advance.

Horses competing in dressage are given scores, expressed in percentages. The Quarter Horse show industry has always been a point-driven system so AQHA has created a conversion table to change dressage scores into AQHA points. To see the conversion table, go to www.aqha.com/showing/guidetoshowing/dressage.html and click on “frequently asked questions.”

In addition to awarding points, AQHA is recognizing the three high-point American Quarter Horses at each of the nine USEF-USDF Regional Championship shows in 2010 and has also created a high-point recognition program for the open, amateur and youth divisions in each level of dressage competition. Amateur and youth eligibility is based on criteria found in the AQHA Handbook of Rules and Regulations.

If you’re interested in getting your American Quarter Horse started in dressage, America’s Horse – AQHA’s membership magazine – initiated a year-long series on Training Level dressage in the January-February 2010 issue. For more information, search for “dressage” on americashorsedaily.com. Included in the search results, you’ll find an excerpt from “The USDF Guide to Dressage,” written by Jennifer O. Bryant and much more.

The United States Dressage Federation is giving AQHA members a 10 percent discount on the guide books. Visit www.aqha.com/showing/guidetoshowing/dressage.html to find the offer code and link. Enter the code at checkout.

AQHA welcomes comments regarding the new dressage program. To submit a comment, e-mail shows@aqha.org.
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.

PRCA Weekly Press Release - Jan. 25, 2010

IN THIS RELEASE YOU’LL FIND:

1. Brazile’s journey towards history gets running start in Denver
2. Coors signs three-year extension on contract with PRCA
3. Next up
4. Rodeo News and Notes
5. 2010 PRCA World Standings leaders
6. 2010 PRCA World Standings
7. 2010 Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour Standings

1. Brazile’s journey towards history gets running start in Denver

DENVER – Trevor Brazile has a lot of miles to travel before he reaches an uncharted territory of rodeo history – an eighth all-around gold buckle – and he seems prepared to do it at a sprinter’s pace.

Brazile won the all-around title at the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo, which ran Jan. 9-10, 14-24, collecting $11,961 in tie-down roping and team roping.

Most of that total ($11,299) came in tie-down roping, where he won the championship, while commuting between the Denver Coliseum and Fort Worth, Texas, where he and partner Patrick Smith are leading the team roping standings.

Brazile won the first round of the Denver tie-down roping with a time of 7.4 seconds and placed in the other two rounds to win the average in 24.7 seconds, one-tenth of a second quicker than Houston Hutto.


With the $4,548 he’s earned in steer roping this year and his Denver windfall in the tie-down roping, Brazile became the first PRCA contestant to qualify for the all-around world standings. He has earned $16,994 in 2010, more than $14,000 ahead of last year’s pace.

“Denver has always been pretty good to me,” Brazile said. “I seem to get some money out of here every year. It’s a great way to start building the (championship) run.”

Trailing Thad Newell by three points going into the final round of the bull riding competition, Clint Craig produced an arena record-tying ride of 92 points on Cervi & Guidry Rodeo Company’s Ole Yeller to secure his biggest win since 2007, when he captured both the Cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days and Pendleton (Ore.) Round-Up titles.

It was a pretty dramatic turn of events, given that Craig had failed to place in either of the first two rounds, but Craig, of Mena, Ark., proved up to the challenge presented by the hard-charging Ole Yeller, tying Kanin Asay’s year-old arena record.

“The most important jump is the first,” Craig said. “If you can make the first one, you should be able to make all of them. That bull, I’d seen him a couple times and knew he had a big, long jump; he jumped high and kicked hard. I didn’t know which way he spun or anything, and I didn’t really care to know. As soon as they tell you they do something, you’re thinking about that, and when you’ve got to regroup, you’re usually late.

“I’ve been riding bulls now for 14 years. I don’t get a lot of surprises. When a bull does something I’m not expecting, that’s a pretty good surprise.”

Craig ended up with a three-head score of 256 points and total earnings of $8,348. Newell, celebrating his 25th birthday on the rodeo’s final day, may not have gotten the present he wanted most, but was second with 253 points and total earnings of $6,963.

Nobody profited more at the Denver Coliseum than Quinn, S.D., saddle bronc rider J.J. Elshere. He won the first round outright with an 86-point ride on Miller Time of the Burns Rodeo string, shared first with 2006 World Champion Chad Ferley in round two and tied for fifth in the finals to win the average with 242 points and collect a rodeo-best $14,948.

Elshere had a six-point lead on Ferley coming into the finals with 167 points.
Ferley made an outstanding effort on Calgary Stampede’s Lunatic Fringe, but failed to get his feet in the correct position when the horse left the bucking chute and was disqualified. Once Elshere made a qualified ride the title was his.

National Western Stock Show Rodeo Champions

Time/score/total earnings

All-around cowboy: Trevor Brazile, $11,961, team roping and tie-down roping
Bareback riding: Joe Gunderson, Agar, S.D., 250 points on three head, $11,626
Steer wrestling: Gabe Ledoux, Kaplan, La., 13.0 seconds on three head, $8,958
Team roping: Keven Daniel, Franklin, Tenn., and Brad Culpepper, Ashburn, Ga.,
15.7 seconds on three head, $7,065 each
Saddle bronc riding: J.J. Elshere, Quinn, S.D., 242 points on three head, $14,948
Tie-down roping: Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 24.7 seconds on three head, $11,299
Barrel racing: Brittany Pozzi, Victoria, Texas, 46.05 seconds on three runs, $12,391
Bull riding: Clint Craig, Mena, Ark., 256 points on three head, $8,348

2. Coors signs three-year extension on contract with PRCA
DENVER—The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Coors have announced a new three-year contract for Coors to continue as the official beer of ProRodeo. PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman and MillerCoors Chairman Pete Coors made the announcement during the Jan 22 performance of the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver.
“The PRCA is pleased to strengthen and lengthen the longtime relationship between the sport of professional rodeo and Coors,” Stressman said. “The PRCA and Coors have been great friends for many years, and we look forward to a long and successful future together. I can't think of a better place to make this announcement than at a great PRCA rodeo in Pete Coors’ backyard. Thank you, Pete, and thank you, Coors. Together, we can take the Cowboy Sport to the next level. We’re looking forward to it.”
“Rodeo is a deep-rooted American tradition that goes hand-in-hand with Coors Banquet, the great American beer,” Pete Coors said. “By renewing our commitment to the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association, MillerCoors continues to promote a Western heritage that truly stands the test of time.”

3. Next Up

Jan. 25 Southwestern Exposition & Livestock Show, Fort Worth, Texas, ongoing
Jan. 28 All Nations PRCA Rodeo, Farmington, N.M., begins
Jan. 29 Americom Pro Rodeo Classic, Lakeland, Fla., begins
Jan. 29 PRCA Championship Rodeo, Lincoln, Neb., begins
Jan. 29 Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour event, Rapid City, S.D., begins
Jan. 29 New Mexico Stampede, Rio Rancho, N.M., begins
Jan. 29 Homestead (Fla.) Championship Rodeo, begins

4. Rodeo News and Notes

Rapid City Xtreme Bulls Tour event Webcast live on ESPN360.com

RAPID CITY, S.D. – In a groundbreaking move, the Rapid City, S.D., Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour event, presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, will be aired on www.ESPN360.com Jan. 30 - the first live Webcast in Xtreme Bulls Tour history.

The Webcast will begin at 7 p.m. MT and will cover every ride of the two-round, 40-man Xtreme Bulls performance. Those fans not able to watch the program live can view a replay of the event on ESPN360.com for up to 14 days following the event.

This Internet coverage will allow servicemen and women stationed all over the world to watch PRCA action live. Rapid City is the home of Ellsworth Air Force Base, and the PRCA and Black Hills Stock Show Rodeo are working with the military to make sure deployed Ellsworth personnel can watch PRCA action from Rapid City.

“The PRCA has such great respect and admiration for the work done by the men and women of the Air Force, and we are excited to find additional ways for America’s armed forces to follow the action of PRCA bull riding,” PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman said.

ESPN360.com is a broadband network for live sports programming. ESPN360.com harnesses the quality ESPN has built through its TV networks and delivers online sports programming to fans through a rich, interactive, and easy-to-use experience. ESPN360.com broadcasts thousands of live games and events online each year. ESPN360.com distribution doubled in 2009 to more than 50 million homes – two-thirds of U.S. broadband homes. It is available via dozens of providers, including Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, Cox, Charter, and many more. ESPN360.com is also available to 21 million U.S. college students and U.S.-based military personnel via computers connected to on-campus educational networks and on-base military networks.

Forty of the world’s top bull riders will converge on the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center to take their shot at a $30,000 purse. The star-studded field will include 2007 World Champion Wesley Silcox, 2009 Rapid City Xtreme Bulls champion Bobby Welsh, as well as nine 2009 Wrangler NFR bull riders, including Jesse Bail, Kanin Asay, Douglas Duncan and Steve Woolsey.
All 40 riders will compete in a long-go on Jan. 29 and Jan. 30, with both performances starting at 7 p.m. MDT. Following the Webcast long-go on Jan. 30, the top 12 will be immediately brought back for the short-go, where the Rapid City champion will be crowned based on the highest average score.

ProRodeo Livestock video available for free

A 20-minute video titled ProRodeo Livestock is available free of charge to rodeo enthusiasts through the PRCA Industry Outreach Department in Colorado Springs, Colo. The educational video covers rodeo history, livestock care, PRCA stock contractors’ born-to-buck breeding program and PRCA rules that govern the safety of animals in competition.

PRCA stock contractors Dona Vold Larsen (Triple V Rodeo Company) and Jim Korkow (Korkow Rodeos) speak in the video, and several cowboys talk about the athletic ability of bucking horses and bulls and also discuss rodeo equipment.
Three-time and reigning World Champion Bareback Rider Bobby Mote, 2006 World Champion Bull Rider B.J. Schumacher and 19-time Wrangler NFR saddle bronc qualifier Rod Hay are among the cowboys featured in the video.

Representatives of rodeo committees, rodeo clubs, Western youth groups and other organizations wishing to get a copy of the free video may call PRCA Industry Outreach Director Cindy Schonholtz at 719.593.8840 or e-mail requests to animalwelfare@prorodeo.com.

San Antonio changes format for 2010

The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, the five-time and reigning PRCA Indoor Rodeo of the Year, has altered its format for this year’s rodeo, which runs Feb. 5-20. The format will remain a tournament-style bracket, but will offer contestants increased odds for winning money and give fans a chance to see a winner at every performance.

This year’s contestants will consist of the top 43 money winners in each event (top 43 teams in the team roping) and the top five leaders from the 2010 standings, totaling 48 contestants per event and 48 teams in the team roping. Last year’s rodeo featured 60 contestants (and teams) per event, so this year’s participants will have a greater chance to win money.

The 48 contestants and teams will be divided into four 12-member brackets, with four-round performances making up each bracket. Contestants will compete in four consecutive performances, and there will be a round winner at each performance.

At the end of each four-round bracket, the top five contestants in each event (top five teams) in each bracket based on money won will advance to a pair of 10-member semifinals performances. After the semifinals, the top 12 contestants in each event (top 12 teams) advance to the rodeo’s finals to compete for the championship.

The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, now in its 61st year, is one of only two regular-season PRCA rodeos to award more than $1 million in prize money.

Gould pulls off triple victory in Magnolia State

TUPELO, Miss. – Todd Gould, a tie-down roper for all of his 11 seasons as a PRCA member, served notice at the Jan. 22-23 Northeast Mississippi Championship Rodeo that he is going to be a factor in this year’s Southeastern Circuit all-around race.
Gould won the steer wrestling at the Bancorp South Coliseum with a eye-catching time of 3.3 seconds and then came back to win the tie-down roping in 9.0 seconds to claim the all-around buckle and earnings of $1,862.

PRCA’s free rodeo school draws 50 students to Fort Worth

FORT WORTH, Texas – Fifty students, ranging from 10 to 30 years old, took part in a free rodeo school at the Southwestern Exposition & Livestock Show on Jan. 24, learning the proper and safe techniques for bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding.
This latest in a series of free rodeo schools provided nationwide by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’ department of industry outreach featured instruction from top PRCA cowboys, including two-time reigning World Champion Bull Rider J.W. Harris.

PRCA bull riders appear on CBS-TV’s The Amazing Race

Jet and Cord McCoy, a pair of bull-riding brothers from Oklahoma, comprise one of 11 teams competing on the upcoming CBS-TV reality show The Amazing Race. Other teams competing in this 16th season include a grandmother and granddaughter, a father and daughter, married high-school sweethearts and a couple of attorney moms.

Jet, 30, and Cord, 29, have both competed in Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events during the last decade. Cord qualified for the 2005 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and finished 15th in the world standings with earnings of $82,234.
Neither brother is daunted by their competition for the $1 million grand prize on the reality show premiering Feb. 14 (8 p.m. EST).

“We ride bucking bulls and horses,” Jet said. “If we’re going to be intimidated, it’s not by another team.”

Heart O’ Texas’ Felton named Volunteer of the Year

Scott Felton, long time volunteer of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo in Waco, was named the Frances R. Cooper Volunteer of the Year by the Texas Association of Fairs & Events during the organization’s annual trade show and convention, Jan. 8-10.

“This honor marks the highest level of recognition of a volunteer in the Texas fair and event industry,” TAF&E President Steve Poynor said. “Scott’s long-running commitment to his fair and his community-oriented spirit of volunteerism made him an obvious choice for this year’s honor.”

Felton has served on the rodeo committee for the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo for the past 18 years and has been chairman for 15 years, helping Waco become the venue for the Heartland ProRodeo Championships in 2008 and 2009 and for this year’s All American ProRodeo Series Finals.

Saddle bronc riding spotlighted at annual Montana Hall of Fame fundraiser

The Montana Pro Prodeo Hall and Wall of Fame annual scholarship fundraiser Jan. 30 in Billings will pay tribute to reigning World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Jesse Kruse, from Great Falls, and other great champions of rodeo’s classic event.

Kruse will be joined at the fifth annual Cowboy and Cowgirl Reunion in the Holiday Inn Grand Hotel Convention Center by three-time World Champion Shawn Davis, from Whitehall, and five-time World Champion Billy Etbauer.

Tickets are $75, which includes a prime rib dinner, a dance and the Montana Hall and Wall of Fame induction ceremony. The inductees are Ed Solomon, Jack Bloxham, Corky Schwend, Jack Carraher, Calvin Bohleen and Bud Pilcher.

5. 2010 PRCA World Standings Leaders

AA: Trevor Brazile………$16,994
BB: Joe Gunderson............ $12,486
SW: Clayton Morrison....... $11,500
TR-1: Clay Tryan................ $8,305
TR-2: Travis Graves..…..... $8,305
SB: J.J. Elshere.................. $15,610
TD: Shane Hanchey........... $16,246
BR: Tyler Johnston........... $14,490
SR: Vin Fisher Jr…............ $8,073

6. 2010 PRCA World Standings

Unofficial as of Jan. 25, 2010.
For 2010, official rodeo limits are as follows: all-around, 70; bareback riding, 100; steer wrestling, 70; team roping, 70; saddle bronc riding, 100; tie-down roping, 100; barrel racing, 70; and bull riding, 125. Bull riders can count Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls events toward the PRCA World Standings, but not toward the all-around standings.

Bareback Riding

1. Joe Gunderson, Agar, S.D. $12,486
2. Bud Munns, Snowville, Utah 8,937
3. Bobby Mote, Culver, Ore. 8,206
4. Ryan Gray, Cheney, Wash. 7,626
5. Eric Swenson, Denison, Texas 7,378
6. Tilden Hooper, Carthage, Texas 6,666
7. Jerad Schlegel, Burns, Colo. 5,614
8. Matt Bright, Azle, Texas 5,230
9. Tom McFarland, Wickenburg, Ariz. 5,070
10. Scott Montague, Rapid City, S.D. 4,450
11. Kyle Bowers, Brooks, Alberta 4,408
12. Wes Stevenson, Lubbock, Texas 3,953
13. Nathan Bayes, Adrian, Ore. 3,933
14. Jared Keylon, Fort Scott, Kan. 3,840
15. Bo Casper, Fort Scott, Kan. 3,686
16. Tanner Aus, Granite Falls, Minn. 3,500
17. Josh Shackleford, McGee, Mo. 3,278
18. Chip Dees IV, Philadelphia, Miss. 3,235
19. Dave Worsfold, Wandoan, Australia 3,040
20. John Addison, Belvidere, S.D. 3,015

Steer Wrestling

1. Clayton Morrison, Cavalier, N.D. $11,500
2. Curtis Cassidy, Donalda, Alberta 10,090
3. Gabe Ledoux, Kaplan, La. 9,054
4. Ken Lewis, La Junta, Colo. 8,495
5. Glen Clark, Granbury, Texas 6,800
6. Jason Miller, Lance Creek, Wyo. 5,569
7. Ronnie Fields, Oklahoma City, Okla. 5,393
8. Olin Hannum, West Haven, Utah 4,320
9. Casey Harmon, Stephenville, Texas 4,260
10. Nick Guy, Sparta, Wis. 4,207
11. Justin Davis, Bartonville, Texas 4,182
12. Todd Suhn, Hermosa, S.D. 4,157
13. Spud Duvall, Checotah, Okla. 3,958
14. Kyle Callaway, Gillette, Wyo. 3,958
15. Wade Sumpter, Fowler, Colo. 3,701
16. Jule Hazen, Ashland, Kan. 3,681
17. Jeff Richardson, Fullerton, Neb. 3,611
18. Craig Cavaness, Brenham, Texas 3,392
19. Kyle Whitaker, Chambers, Neb. 3,307
20. Johnny Silva, Powell, Wyo. 3,297

Team Roping (header)

1. Clay Tryan, Billings, Mont. $8,305
2. Caleb Mitchell, Sealy, Texas 8,104
3. David Key, Stephenville, Texas 7,598
4. Keven Daniel, Franklin, Tenn. 7,066
5. Shane Philipp, Washington, Texas 5,874
6. JoJo LeMond, Andrews, Texas 5,627
7. Steve Purcella, Hereford, Texas 5,082
8. Rusty Barnett, Huntsville, Texas 5,005
9. Brady Williams, Hammond, Mont. 5,001
10. Colby Lovell, Madisonville, Texas 4,389
11. Seth Gurney, Aurora, Utah 4,151
12. Britt Williams, Hammond, Mont. 3,804
13. Ty Blasingame, Ramah, Colo. 3,738
14. Cody Tew, Harlowton, Mont. 3,724
15. Morgan Jones, Leighton, Ala. 3,671
16. Cody Graham, Everton, Mo. 3,585
17. Steve Brandt, Stephenville, Texas 3,496
18. Kaleb Driggers, Pageland, S.C. 3,292
19. Tanner Bryson, Cornville, Ariz. 3,173
20. Jake Stanley, Hermiston, Ore. 3,086

Team Roping (heeler)

1. Travis Graves, Jay, Okla. $8,305
2. Rich Skelton, Llano, Texas 7,598
3. Brad Culpepper, Ashburn, Ga. 7,066
4. Britt Bockius, Claremore, Okla. 5,874
5. Randon Adams, Logandale, Nev. 5,627
6. Kyle Crick, Lipan, Texas 5,602
7. Justin Copp, Justin, Texas 5,267
8. Jhett Johnson, Casper, Wyo. 5,082
9. Michael Fortenberry, Groveton, Texas 5,005
10. Chase Tryan, Helena, Mont. 4,915
11. Bobby Harris, Highmore, S.D. 4,754
12. John Paul Lucero, Villanueva, N.M. 4,389
13. K.C. Curtis, Monroe, Utah 4,151
14. Cody Hintz, Spring Creek, Nev. 3,738
15. Cole Bigbee, Tuscunbia, Ala. 3,671
16. Gabe Gwaltney, Carthage, Mo. 3,585
17. Martin Lucero, Stephenville, Texas 3,385
18. Adam Plyler, Pageland, S.C. 3,292
19. Matt Garza, Mesquite, N.M. 3,173
20. Justin Davis, Cottonwood, Calif. 3,086

Saddle Bronc Riding

1. J.J. Elshere, Quinn, S.D. $15,610
2. Jesse Wright, Milford, Utah 8,607
3. Jeff Willert, Belvidere, S.D. 6,772
4. Cody Martin, Eagle, Colo. 5,888
5. Tate Owens, Platteville, Colo. 5,386
6. Trell Etbauer, Goodwell, Okla. 5,345
7. Chad Ferley, Oelrichs, S.D. 4,541
8. Andrew Counts, Stephenville, Texas 4,342
9. Chuck Schmidt, Keldron, S.D. 4,204
10. Jacobs Crawley, College Station, Texas 4,142
11. Heith DeMoss, Heflin, La. 4,062
12. Kyle Daines, Innisfail, Alberta 3,888
13. Cort Scheer, Elsmere, Neb. 3,542
14. J.R. Berg, Marwayne, Alberta 3,342
15. Curtis Garton, Kaitaia, New Zealand 3,171
16. Scott Miller, Hemet, Calif. 3,064
17. Jesse Bail, Camp Crook, S.D. 2,871
18. Jace Garrett, Alliance, Neb. 2,856
19. Frank McKay, Ontario, Ore. 2,578
20. Colin Stalley, Riverton, Wyo. 2,399

Tie-down Roping

1. Shane Hanchey, Sulphur, La. $16,246
2. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas 11,908
3. Houston Hutto, Del Rio, Texas 11,661
4. Murray Pole, Erskine, Alberta 8,468
5. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas 6,778
6. Skyler Moore, Mt. Vernon, Mo. 6,554
7. Josh Peek, Pueblo, Colo. 5,941
8. Fred Whitfield, Hockley, Texas 5,612
9. Dean Edge, Rimbey, Alberta 4,889
10. Randall Carlisle, Lipan, Texas 4,865
11. Clif Cooper, Decatur, Texas 4,732
12. Cade Swor, Crafton, Texas 4,725
13. Wes Borders, Arriba, Colo. 4,716
14. Joseph Gernentz, Colorado City, Texas 4,619
15. J.D. Kibbe, Portales, N.M. 4,599
16. Ace Slone, Cuero, Texas 4,556
17. Clay Long, Midlothian, Texas 4,480
18. J.C. Malone, Roy, Utah 4,437
19. Timber Moore, Aubrey, Texas 4,337
20. Ryan Jarrett, Comanche, Okla. 4,234

Steer Roping

1. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas $8,073
2. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas 4,548
3. Walter Priestly, Robstown, Texas 4,398
4. Rod Hartness, Pawhuska, Okla. 3,591
5. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas 3,126
6. Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas 3,060
7. Tony Reina, Wharton, Texas 2,915
8. J.R. Olson, Greeley, Colo. 2,907
9. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla. 2,622
10. Shay Good, Midland, Texas 2,394
11. Paul Patton, Abilene, Texas 2,130
12. Brady Garten, Claremore, Okla. 1,967
13. J. Paul Williams, Burbank, Okla. 1,881
Cash Myers, Athens, Texas 1,881
15. Jason Evans, Huntsville, Texas 1,838
16. J. Tom Fisher, Andrews, Texas 1,780
17. J.D. Yates, Pueblo, Colo. 1,710
18. Shandon Stalls, McLean, Texas 1,628
19. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla. 1,602
20. Shane Suggs, Granbury, Texas 1,511

Bull Riding

1. Tyler Johnston, Bridger, Mont. $14,490
2. Marcus Michaelis, Caldwell, Idaho 13,032
3. Jason Beck, Prairieville, La. 12,801
4. Beau Schroeder, China, Texas 10,862
5. Clint Craig, Mena, Ark. 10,531
6. Howdy Cloud, Kountze, Texas 9,246
7. Thad Newell, Muskogee, Okla. 8,848
8. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 7,918
9. Ardie Maier, Timber Lake, S.D. 7,862
10. Clayton Williams, Carthage, Texas 6,868
11. Corey Navarre, Weatherford, Okla. 6,830
12. Joe Smith, Sheridan, Wyo. 6,078
13. Colin McTaggart, Las Vegas, Nev. 5,851
14. Will Farrell, Thermopolis, Wyo. 5,735
15. Dylan Werner, Bushnell, Fla. 5,533
16. Cody Buller, Glendive, Mont. 5,290
17. D.J. Domangue, Odessa, Texas 5,056
18. Brandon Reynolds, Pike Road, Ala. 5,048
19. Cody Gardner, Ft Lupton, Colo. 4,843
20. Bobby Welsh, Gillette, Wyo. 4,663

*Barrel racing (through Jan. 25, 2010)

Barrel racing standings, provided by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), are unofficial, subject to audit and may change. Unofficial WPRA Standings are published by the PRCA as a courtesy. The PRCA is not responsible for the verification or updating of WPRA standings.

1. Jean Winters, Texline, Texas $15,430
2. Brittany Pozzi, Victoria, Texas 13,482
3. Kassie Mowry, Dublin, Texas 12,965
4. Kendra Dickson, Aubrey, Texas 10,904
5. Jessi Eagleberger, Stringtown, Okla. 9,550
6. Janna Beam, Hallsville, Texas 9,348
7. Haley Thorne, Midlothian, Texas 7,879
8. Layna Kight, Wills Point, Texas 7,849
9. Lisa Lockhart, Oelrichs, S.D. 7,053
10. Tammy Fischer, Ledbetter, Texas 6,675
11. Pam Deaver, Hearne, Texas 6,457
12. Molly Powell, Stephenville, Texas 6,449
13. Tana Poppino, Big Cabin, Okla. 6,318
14. Jeanne Anderson, White City, Kan. 5,889
15. Kelly Bruner, Millsap, Texas 5,028
16. Martha Wright, Dublin, Texas 4,905
17. Caren Lamb, Ft. Sumner, N.M. 4,856
18. Lanita Powers, Edmond, Okla. 4,625
19. Mary Burger, Pauls Valley, Okla. 4,407
20. Tiffany Fox, Fox, Okla. 4,222

7. Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour Standings

Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches

Unofficial as of Jan. 25, 2010.
1. Tyler Johnston, Bridger, Mont. $13,513
2. Jason Beck, Prairieville, La. 9,847
3. Cole Echols, Elm Grove, La. 8,889
4. Marcus Michaelis, Caldwell, Idaho 8,413
5. Howdy Cloud, Kountze, Texas 4,526
6. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 4,099
7. Ardie Maier, Timber Lake, S.D. 3,747
8. Wesley Silcox, Santaquin, Utah 3,714
9. D.J. Domangue, Odessa, Texas 3,666
10. Corey Navarre, Weatherford, Okla. 3,610
11. Stormy Wing, Dalhart, Texas 3,083
12. Mike Moore, Kankakee, Ill. 3,030
13. Jordan Hooton, Daingerfield, Texas 3,008
14. Justin Koon, Russellville, Ark. 2,797
15. Tyler Smith, Fruita, Colo. 2,767
16. Jake Wade, Alamo, Nev. 2,715
17. Clayton Savage, Casper, Wyo. 2,600
18. Kanin Asay, Powell, Wyo. 2,316
19. Shawn Hogg, Odessa, Texas 2,045
20. Sye Jones, Weatherford, Texas 2,007

The PRCA, headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., is the largest and oldest rodeo-sanctioning body in the world. The recognized leader in professional rodeo, the PRCA is committed to maintaining the highest standards. The PRCA, a membership-based organization, sanctions more than 600 rodeos annually, and there are nearly 30 million fans in the U.S. The PRCA showcases the world’s best cowboys in premier events through the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour presented by Justin Boots, and its subsequent Justin Boots Playoffs, the Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, the PRCA’s bull riding tour; and the world-renowned Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Action from PRCA-sanctioned rodeos and its premier events appears on ESPN2, ESPN Classic and ESPN Deportes. Each year, PRCA-sanctioned rodeos raise more than $26 million for local and national charities. www.prorodeo.com

The 1st International Gay Polo Tournament comes to Wellington, Florida this April 2010

Wellington, Florida - January 25, 2010 - The traditional sport of polo will take on a new field of players on April 3, 2010, when the world's only Gay Polo League (GPL) will host the first international Gay Polo Tournament. Held at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, FL, the tournament will begin with opening ceremonies at 1:00 p.m. and will conclude with trophy presentations at 5:00 p.m.

The GPL is a United States Polo Association (USPA) official club and consists of all levels of polo players, from beginners to professionals. The USPA rates polo players based upon athletic abilities, playing skills, and tournament plays. Beginning at the lowest level "C", players move up as they acquire knowledge and refine techniques, eventually getting to "B", "A", and then 0- 10, respectively. "A 10" is the coveted rating that is only held by the few that have established themselves as the best in the world. Members of all different levels are seen throughout the GPL, as the club welcomes anyone with a passion for the sport.

On April 3, 2010, at Grand Champions Polo Club, the GPL will put forth their highest players to compete in a USPA governed tournament. The tournament will be comprised of twelve GPL players, and four world-class professional players. Each player will be provided with four horses, one per every seven and a half minute period throughout the six chukker game. Melissa and Marc Ganzi (owners of Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, FL), will provide sixty-four horses for use at the tournament.

With so many interested polo players wanting to participate, the GPL hopes that this event has a long shelf life. GPL Founder and President, Chip McKenney, (COO of Troika Design Group) says, "It's the shelf life of an event that tells you how great the event truly was, and there is no doubt that The First International Gay Polo League Tournament will be a hit."

The GPL was recently asked to participate in an exhibition arena polo game during the 2010 World Equestrian Games. McKenney envisions great things for the future, and explained that he seeks to "increase the number of chapters in America and the World, and eventually have four large events per year in the four corners of the United States."

If you would like to become a member costs are as follows:

Joining the GPL can be done on one of three levels:

1. Patron Membership - $500 per year
2. Full Membership - $250 per year
3. International/Social Membership - $50 per year

1st Annual International Gay Polo League Tournament

Fast Facts:

Event: The International Gay Polo League (GPL) is pleased to announce their 1st Annual Polo Tournament in Wellington, FL

What: Unprecedented, the GPL Tournament will take place during the first week of April. The tournament will field four teams, each of which is to be comprised of GPL players and anchored by a high-goal professional.

Who is GPL: GPL is the sole international polo league to be primarily comprised of lesbian and gay players. Founded to enable gay men and women to share their interest in this unique sport, GPL has created a community of passionate, like-minded athletes. GPL's mission is to provide the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) community with the opportunity to develop and refine the necessary skills for participating in this exceptional sport. To achieve its mission, GPL continues to promote participation in amateur competitions and foster fellowship and goodwill among all members.

Where: Grand Champions Polo Club
Located at the corner of Lake Worth Road and South Shore Boulevard

When: Saturday, April 3, 2010

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Prices: $20 General Admission

-Includes a field side view of an elegant and exciting game of polo
*Please Provide Your Own Chair

$150 Tailgate Space

-Includes 8 General Admission Tickets & 1 Tailgate Parking Space

$3500 VIP Table

-Includes 8 Seats at Private Table in VIP tent

-Gourmet Food and Beverage

Sponsorship: The GPL offers numerous ways to get involved and connect with participants, spectators, and receive press coverage of future.

For more information about the GPL or for sponsorship opportunities please contact:

The Gay Polo League

Website: www.GayPolo.com

Phone: 561-868-1807

Fax: 561-753-3386

Gay Polo League
C/O PMG
12230 Forest Hill Blvd. Suite 214
Wellington, Florida 33414

Omega Fields® Names Transcon Trading Co., Inc. International Distributor

Omega Fields® Names Transcon Trading Co., Inc. International Distributor

Newton, WI, January 25, 2010 – Omega Fields® has announced that Transcon Trading Co., Inc., located in Irmo, SC, has recently signed an agreement with Omega Fields® to distribute their animal nutrition products internationally.

Omega Fields® manufactures an extensive line of animal wellness products, including the popular, award-winning Omega Horseshine®, a stabilized ground flaxseed supplement formulated to help maintain healthy coats and strong hooves for equines of all ages.

Omega Fields’ Director of Sales – East, Allison Kellogg, will assist Transcon in their efforts providing sales materials and training about Omega Fields products.

“We have made great strides in setting up a very effective distribution network for our Omega Fields products here in the United States, and the increase in our sales is testament to its effectiveness,” said Sean Moriarty, president and CEO of ENRECO®, Inc., the parent company of Omega Fields. “Now we need to expand the network overseas. We believe that Transcon, with its proven record, is the solution.”

Transcon Trading Co., Inc. is an Export Management Company (EMC) founded in South Carolina in 1979 with a vision to distribute high quality U.S. made products to other countries. From the beginning, customer service has been the primary focus of Transcon. Implementing sound practices of supplier/customer relationships, Transcon has developed market presence in over 75 countries worldwide.

Transcon has made exceptional strides in international trade, as evidenced by being the recipient of the President’s E-Award , the United States’ highest honor for exporting excellence. Additional significant awards include Commercial News USA 2007 Exporter of the Year, and South Carolina’s World Trade Center 2002 World Trader of the Year awards.

Upon signing the agreement, Sonya Kostadinova, CEO/President, stated, “Transcon is excited to assist Omega Fields® with an introduction of their product line in international territories. In a time of a shrinking economy and an imbalance of trade, it is a pleasure for Transcon to do its part in increasing export sales by working hand-in-hand with Omega Fields®. The uniqueness and effectiveness of the Omega Fields products, along with the right quality/price ratio, will allow Transcon to gain the attention of both distributors and end-users throughout the world.”

About Omega Fields –

Omega Fields® provides premium, nutritional products, made from human-grade, stabilized ground flaxseed, rich in fiber and antioxidants, and containing the optimum ratio of the full spectrum of omega fatty acids for equine, canine, and poultry nutrition. Omega Fields® and its parent company, ENRECO®, Inc. have been innovators and market leaders for over twenty years, being the first in the industry to manufacture premium, Omega-3-rich, human food-grade, flax based products for animal and human consumption. ENRECO® was also a pioneer in developing ground flaxseed stabilization technology for long product shelf lives.

Omega Fields® markets via online and traditional distribution models. Online-based consumer distribution includes OmegaFields.com and OmegaFieldsHealth.com. Retail delivery includes distributor and retail dealer programs providing nation-wide and international distribution.

Omega Fields® is recognized as a minority owned business. Its mission is to offer the finest quality, most nutritious products at fair prices, and to provide outstanding customer service. We want our customers to have exceptional experiences with our products, our staff, our websites and our retailers.

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

More information about Transcon Trading Corp. can be had by contacting: Sonya Kostadinova, info@transcontrading.com or phone 1-803-781-7117.

Thinking “Green” with Apps for Horsepersons

Lucinda Dyer, author of Eco-Horsekeeping: Over 100 Budget-Friendly Ways You and Your Horse Can Save the Planet (www.horseandriderbooks.com), gives us the lowdown on the newest, coolest ways to “Go Paperless and Get Efficient”

No, not Appaloosas. iPhone “apps.” Cheap (often absolutely free) and requiring no custom saddles, joint supplements, or weekly lessons, these apps—while not necessarily equine specific—can help you organize your horse life both at the barn and away from home. You’ll maximize your efficiency and go paperless while staying hip to what’s hot in handheld technology. Check out some of my favorite apps—all available at the iTunes App Store.

Accuweather
If you own a horse, you’re obsessed with weather. Accuweather provides forecasts, in-motion radar, alerts, and warnings for multiple locations—and it has great graphics.

Evernote
What can’t Evernote do? Not much. A perennial on most reviewers “Best App” lists, it even syncs with a free Evernote download for your computer. Getting ready for an out of town show? A show “Notebook” can hold packing lists you’ve created specifically for trailer and truck, prize lists or ride times you’ve downloaded from the venue’s web site, and to-do lists for each day. What you create is limited only by your imagination. For more information, check out their Web site at www.evernote.com.

Around Me
When you’re on the road during show season, what could be better than an app that locates nearby gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores? Or, for those in a celebratory mood, local bars and pubs? Every listing displays its location on a map, the route you should take from where you are, and allows you to email the information to a friend (should a toast be in order).

Car Care
No more scrawling mileage on the back of greasy Taco Bell receipts or trying to remember the last time you had your truck serviced … or was it your car? Not only does Car Care calculate gas mileage, it programs your iPhone to remind you when oil changes, tire rotations, and maintenance checks are due on multiple vehicles.

Pet First Aid
If you have horses, you probably have a dog or cat (or both) to complete the menagerie. From cuts and fractures to sprains and CPR, Pet First Aid provides detailed articles, video, and illustrations to help you care for your dog or cat in an emergency. The section on “pet information” allows you to download a photo of your pet as well as pertinent medical/veterinary information.

Discover other great ways to become as eco-conscious in the barn and on your horse as you are in your home and in your car—check out Eco-Horsekeeping: Over 100 Budget-Friendly Ways You and Your Horse Can Save the Planet. For more information contact rdidier@sover.net.

HorseTV wins United States Equestrian Federation's Highest Media Honor

The Daniel P. Lenehan Trophy for Overall Media Excellence, which is awarded for innovative thinking and vision in equestrian media, was established in 1993 as part of the "Making Strides for Equestrian Sports" campaign, and is the USEF's most prestigious Media Award.

All forms of equestrian centric media, including print, traditional television and interactive internet within the U.S. equestrian industry were considered for the prestigious, singular and ultimate media award bestowed by the USEF. The recipient was announced at its annual convention and awards ceremony, held this year in Louisville, Kentucky on January 16, 2010.


Dallas, TX -- HorseTV's Coverage, Production & Broadcast of the 2009 CAI LIVE OAK Combined Driving Event, which was covered by up to 12 cameras, and included live sports cast commentary, was painstakingly crafted in post production into a four-hour multi-part series. Incorporating both promotional and instructional programming highlighting the sport of driving, it is, in the words of former U.S. Olympian and USEF President David O'Connor when presenting the award to HorseTV, "unprecedented in its visual scope." O'Conner added, "this year's recipient had a particularly successful and well-rounded approach to presenting the sport of driving to both a familiar audience, and potential new viewers and prospective fans. Growing equestrian sport is always an important part of any media mission."

In accepting the award and giving thanks on behalf of the HorseTV team, Bernard Uechtritz stated, "while I am honored to be here to accept this award, there is no I in team, and this was very much a team effort, which started with Chester Weber and Susan Gilliland and the great group at the Live Oak venue, and then also incorporated the support of John Long, Kathy Meyer and Sonja Keating of the USEF, and of course culminated with a herculean production and post production effort by our HorseTV team, led in particular by Jon May and Chris Crosby in our studios."

The presentation and Uechtritz's post award interview can be seen at www.ClubEquestrian.com and highlighted segments of the Live Oak Show can also be seen on the www.HorseTV.com sampler and driving channel, including a 9 minute powerful piece on Bob Giles, a 3-time Purple Heart Medal Vietnam Veteran Honoree. As a child, Bob was also a 13-time ward of the state foster child system. Bob explains how he came to be a driver, why horses were the only thing he could trust as a child, and how they never let him down.

In his quest to qualify for the 2010 World Equestrian Games, Bob speaks of driving for the 58,000 names of men and women on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington DC. Other segments include insightful interviews with Kentucky Horse Park's John Nicholson, World Champion driver, Chester Weber as well as sports caster and post event commentary at the sports desk and awards.

The full four-hour show and other outtakes on DVD of this event can be found and ordered at www.JustHorseVideos.com.

AHJF Showcases Bowling and Hunters

Wellington, FL - January 25, 2010 - On February 14th and on February 20th equestrians will be either scoring points or cheering from the sidelines at two events showcased by the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation (AHJF).
For the fourth annual Bowling for Equestrians on the 14th competitors will rack up dollars. This event benefits the AHJF's Emergency Relief Fund (ERF) and takes place at Greenacres Bowl (6126 Lake Worth Road, Greenacres, FL) from 6:30 to 9:30 PM.

One week later many of those tossing bowling balls down alleys will be negotiating lines of fences for the 14th annual AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL.
Since its inception in 1997, the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular has been a highlight event for hunter horses and riders. Champion and reserve champion riders, who are current members of the AHJF, qualify throughout the week (February 17-20) in the various hunter divisions to compete in this prestigious two-round competition under the lights. Approximately $50,000 (through 12th place) is awarded with $12,000 guaranteed to the winner. Since it is an add-back competition the final prize money is not determined until that night.

The final chance to qualify happens the week before the Hunter Classic when riders, trainers, owners and enthusiasts watch to see who is emerging to the top of the divisions. Also during that week professional riders who are AHJF members and new to the hunters can earn points towards its new Emerging Pro series. This year riders in California will also have a chance to qualify for the Hunter Classic during Thermal week II, which takes place February 2-7.

The final list won't be decided until that day but a number of competitors are already qualified. These include Hunt Tosh, Cummings, GA, the 2009 WCHR Professional Champion; Kelley Farmer, Keswick, VA, who was last year's AHJF Hunter Classic winner (on Early Applause); Scott Stewart, Flemington, NJ and Wellington, FL, the winner of the 2009 WCHR Pro Challenge; Stacey Arani, Dover, MA, 2009 WCHR Amateur-Owner Champion and Laura King, Irvington, NY, 2009 WCHR Junior Champion.

Mr. & Mrs. S. Craig Lindner along with Mr. & Mrs. Jeremy Jacobs will chair the activity happening in the International Club. Richard Jeffery will be the course designer. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. and ends at approximately 9:30 p.m. with the crowning of a new champion.

In addition to the prize money being distributed, the winner of the class will receive the "The Dark Continent" trophy, courtesy of Jim Green; a custom jacket specially designed by Personalized Products and a cooler; Custom jackets for the winning rider, owner, trainer and groom from Whipstick Farm Ltd.; Equine Outfitter will sponsor garment bags for 1st-6th place and boot bags for the 7th-12th place ribbon winners. The grooms of the 1st through 4th place winners receive a check for $500, $300, $200, $100 (consecutively) sponsored by a Friend of the AHJF. The winning rider receives the "Let's Dance Trophy" established by the AHJF in honor of Friend and Horseman Eugene R. Mische. "Strapless Challenge" is a trophy and award which would go to anyone winning the class four times.

The AHJF was formed in 1992 to further the development of the equestrian sport of show hunter competition by providing a national office to organize, coordinate and support hunter rider equestrian competition. For more information contact the AHJF, PO Box 369, West Boylston, MA 01583-0369, Phone: 508-835-8813, www.ahjf.org, email: ahjf@earthlink.net.

Lars Petersen and Willano Win Prix St. Georges Class Sponsored by The Sanctuary At Gold Coast Dressage CDI

West Palm Beach, FL (January 25, 2010) – Danish Olympic dressage star Lars Petersen rode away the winner of the FEI Prix St. Georges Open class aboard Willano at the Gold Coast Dressage Association Opener at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Petersen and Willano, a Danish warmblood owned by the Global Dressage partnership, earned top honors in the class sponsored by The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Ocala and were awarded a beautiful wool dress sheet from The Sanctuary as well as a $100 gift certificate to the world-class center.
“Willano is a really, really fabulous horse,” said Petersen, the head trainer at Legacy Farms in White Fences. “It was his first Prix St. Georges class and I was really happy with him.”
Petersen has a lengthy and noteworthy dressage career, including being named the Danish National Champion five times and represented Denmark at the Olympic Games, three World Equestrian Games, two World Cup Finals and three Continental Championships. Since moving to the United States, Petersen has continued to earn an impressive record at some of the most prestigious shows in the country.
“Lars has really made his mark on the dressage world and we are thrilled that he won a class we were sponsoring,” said Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary. “We are looking forward to assisting Lars with any of his dressage horses he brings to The Sanctuary. We are well aware of the physical demands put on dressage horses and we have the technology to keep dressage horses competing at their peak.”
The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center is a multi-million dollar facility dedicated to the healing, conditioning and well being of all equine athletes. “The Sanctuary features some of the most advanced conditioning and rehab equipment in the world,” McDuffee said. “Our conditioning and rehab equipment helps equine athletes in all disciplines stay fit, avoid injury, and recover faster and more completely from injuries they might experience when competing in intense and physically demanding sports.”
The Sanctuary is home to an Equine Hyperbaric Chamber with box stall type freedom of movement, as well as an Aqua Pacer Water Treadmill, the safest, most effective water treadmill available. The Sanctuary also features: a Cold Saltwater Leg Spa featuring 34 degree, highly salinated water for all types of leg therapy; an Equine Swimming Pool – a 110 foot long, 14 foot deep inline pool with therapeutic water; a 5/8 mile race track; two Eurocisers with therapeutic tracking surface - one under cover and one outdoors; Solariums; Temperature-controlled veterinary inspection area with semi-surgical lighting, and rubberized surfaces in most areas.
For more information on The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, visit their website at www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com.

American Blazer Horse News: History of the Breed

In 1959 in Star, Idaho, the foundation stallion for the American Blazer horse--Little Blaze--was born.

Little Blaze was a combination of selective breeding by Neil Hinck, mixing Quarter Horse, Shetland Pony, Thoroughbred and Morgan to create the American Blazer breed. Registered Blazers have at least one parent with a bloodline tracing back to Little Blaze.

Other breed standards include standing between 13 and 15 hands, a solid coat color with dark underlying skin, and white markings are only allowed on the face and below the knee or hock.

Along with their distinct size and color attributes, Blazers are known for their athleticism, versatility, durability, high bone-to-muscle ratio, heart and disposition.

The Blazers' athleticism and versatility makes them suitable for a wide variety of competitive venues, as Blazers compete in reined cow horse and cutting events, endurance races, arena speed events and English disciplines. Their durability and substantial bone-to-muscle ratio only adds to their athleticism and versatility.

This breed's heart and gentle disposition makes Blazers popular for more than competing, as they are very loyal to their riders and eager to learn a variety of new tasks. They are wonderful with children and have been used for trail rides, working livestock, as pack horses and to pull buggies.

Cavalor Horse & Rider Make History

Montreal, Canada - January 25, 2010 -Each year the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) honors one horse and one rider whose individual accomplishments during the previous competition year left a lasting impression on the world of equestrian sport.
Cavalor rider and three-time Olympic veteran Steffen Peters was honored as the 2009 USEF Equestrian of the Year following his history making performances at the 2009 Rolex FEI World Cup Dressage Final in Las Vegas and World Equestrian Festival - CDIO in Aachen, Germany.
Peters, who also won the award in 2008 and who put his horses on Cavalor feed starting in 2009, joins Beezie Madden as the only riders in history to receive this award two years in a row. Madden was named USEF Equestrian of the Year in 2005 and 2006. USEF President and 2000 Individual Olympic Gold Medalist, David O'Connor, won the award in 2000 and 2002, is the only other rider who has twice been named USEF Equestrian of the Year.
Just one night prior to Peters' award, the USEF honored Ravel, the horse which Peters rode to victory at both the Rolex FEI World Cup Final and the World Equestrian Festival, as the Farnam®/Platform™ Horse of the Year. Ravel is owned by Aikiko Yamazaki.
While the USEF presents these two awards separately, the fact that Peters and Ravel both were honored speaks volumes to the star power these two have when they are together.
"Steffen and Ravel are the perfect ambassadors of the Cavalor brand," said Philippe Collard, President of Cavalor, Inc. "They made history with their accomplishments in 2009, and Cavalor is proud to be supporting them as they look to make 2010 just as memorable."
Cavalor, whose complete line of supplements, care and feed products which address the diverse needs and requirements of top sport horses and breeding stables, welcomed Peters and Ravel to their team of riders in early May after their victory at the World Cup Final in Las Vegas. Peters followed his historic performance in Las Vegas by becoming the first US rider to sweep Aachen's Grand Prix, Grand Prix Spéciale and Grand Prix Freestyle at the World Equestrian Festival with Ravel.
"Last year was very intense for us," said Peters. "I know that having Ravel on Cavalor feed products helped give us that winning edge."
Other riders who depend on Cavalor products to feed and care for their world-class horses also include three-time Olympic individual gold medalist and nine-time Dressage World Cup Champion Anky Van Grunsven of The Netherlands, nine-time Olympic veteran and two-time show jumping World Cup Champion Ian Millar of Canada; four-time Olympic show jumping veteran Ludo Phillipaerts of Belgium; Olympic show jumping individual gold medalist Eric Lamaze of Canada; show jumping World Champion Jos Lansink of Belgium; and top U.S show jumping rider and "Cavalor Young Champion," Hillary Dobbs.
Over the past 20 years, Cavalor has built an international reputation as the world leader in equine nutrition for high performance horses. Today, Cavalor products are sold and used in 45 countries by champion riders like Jos Lansink, Eric Lamaze, Ian Millar, Hillary Dobbs and Anky Van Grunsven. Cavalor products include a complete line of feed, supplement and care products. All are the result of years of intense research and development, thorough testing, selection of the highest quality ingredients, strict manufacturing and quality control processes.For more information about Cavalor and its complete line of products, please visit the Cavalor website at www.cavalor.com.

Cavalor, when the result counts!

NWHS Welcomes the American Blazer Horse Association to the Club Corral!

The American Blazer Horse Association is a member-owned non-profit organization that was created to encourage, support and celebrate the endeavors of our members as they exhibit, compete and promote the American Blazer Horse in all facets of the equine industry.

Learn more at http://www.blazerhorse.com/

Or, you can read more Blazer Horse news here in the Club Corral !

LAKE PLACID AND I LOVE NEW YORK HORSE SHOWS

WHAT:
The Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows

WHEN:
41st annual Lake Placid Horse Show: June 29 - July 4, 2010, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
33rd annual I Love New York Horse Show: July 6 - 11, 2010, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

WHERE:
North Elba Show Grounds, 5514 Cascade Rd., Lake Placid, NY, across from the ski jumps

FEATURING:
One of the nation's premier hunter-jumper horse shows, the Lake Placid Horse Shows feature two Grand Prix events: the $75,000 Grand Prix of Lake Placid CSI 2* on Sunday, July 4 and the $75,000 Hermès Grandprix CSI 2* on Saturday, July 10.

SPECIAL:
Special features of the 2010 Lake Placid Horse Shows include North American League, Cavalor Show Jumping Hall of Fame Jumper Classic Series and Washington International Horse Show events for junior and amateur/owner riders. Riders in these classes can earn points toward qualifying to compete in year-end finals for each respective series.

Animal Planet Kids' Day is scheduled for Friday, July 2, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is an educational and fun event with activities such as a stable tour, jumper course walk, farrier visit, and question-and-answer seminar on safety in and out of the ring. There is also a raffle, giveaways, lunch and an autograph session.

The 18th annual Doggie Costume Contest sponsored by A Placid Life, The Brown Dog Deli & Wine Bar and Lonesome Landing returns on Saturday, July 10 at noon. All people with leashed dogs in costume are admitted to the horse show at no charge. Contestants will strut their stuff in a special ring set up near the horse show's Richard M. Feldman Grand Prix Field. There is no entry fee, and all entrants receive treats. Awards, including the Lulu Perpetual Trophy for the funniest costume, are presented to the "top dogs."

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Admission to the Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows is $2.00 on weekdays and $5.00 on weekends. Children under the age of 12 are admitted free. Tickets are available at the gate.

AHJF HUNTER CLASSIC SPECTACULAR AND BOWLING FOR EQUESTRIANS COMING UP IN FEBRUARY AT WEF

AHJF SHOWCASES BOWLING AND HUNTERS

Bowling for Equestrians and AHJF Hunter Classic Continue Their Tradition

Wellington, FL – January 21, 2010 – On February 14th and on February 20th equestrians will be either scoring points or cheering from the sidelines at two events showcased by the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation (AHJF).

For the fourth annual Bowling for Equestrians on the 14th competitors will rack up dollars. This event benefits the AHJF’s Emergency Relief Fund (ERF) and takes place at Greenacres Bowl (6126 Lake Worth Road, Greenacres, FL) from 6:30 to 9:30 PM.

One week later many of those tossing bowling balls down alleys will be negotiating lines of fences for the 14th annual AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL.

Since its inception in 1997, the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular has been a highlight event for hunter horses and riders. Champion and reserve champion riders, who are current members of the AHJF, qualify throughout the week (February 17-20) in the various hunter divisions to compete in this prestigious two-round competition under the lights. Approximately $50,000 (through 12th place) is awarded with $12,000 guaranteed to the winner. Since it is an add-back competition the final prize money is not determined until that night.

The final chance to qualify happens the week before the Hunter Classic when riders, trainers, owners and enthusiasts watch to see who is emerging to the top of the divisions. Also during that week professional riders who are AHJF members and new to the hunters can earn points towards its new Emerging Pro series. This year riders in California will also have a chance to qualify for the Hunter Classic during Thermal week II, which takes place February 2-7.

The final list won’t be decided until that day but a number of competitors are already qualified. These include Hunt Tosh, Cummings, GA, the 2009 WCHR Professional Champion; Kelley Farmer, Keswick, VA, who was last year's AHJF Hunter Classic winner (on Early Applause); Scott Stewart, Flemington, NJ and Wellington, FL, the winner of the 2009 WCHR Pro Challenge; Stacey Arani, Dover, MA, 2009 WCHR Amateur-Owner Champion and Laura King, Irvington, NY, 2009 WCHR Junior Champion.

Mr. & Mrs. S. Craig Lindner along with Mr. & Mrs. Jeremy Jacobs will chair the activity happening in the International Club. Richard Jeffery will be the course designer. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. and ends at approximately 9:30 p.m. with the crowning of a new champion.

In addition to the prize money being distributed, the winner of the class will receive the “The Dark Continent” trophy, courtesy of Jim Green; a custom jacket specially designed by Personalized Products and a cooler; Custom jackets for the winning rider, owner, trainer and groom from Whipstick Farm Ltd.; Equine Outfitter will sponsor garment bags for 1st–6th place and boot bags for the 7th–12th place ribbon winners. The grooms of the 1st through 4th place winners receive a check for $500, $300, $200, $100 (consecutively) sponsored by a Friend of the AHJF. The winning rider receives the “Let’s Dance Trophy” established by the AHJF in honor of Friend and Horseman Eugene R. Mische. “Strapless Challenge” is a trophy and award which would go to anyone winning the class four times.

The AHJF was formed in 1992 to further the development of the equestrian sport of show hunter competition by providing a national office to organize, coordinate and support hunter rider equestrian competition. For more information contact the AHJF, PO Box 369, West Boylston, MA 01583-0369, Phone: 508-835-8813, www.ahjf.org, email: ahjf@earthlink.net.

NRHYA AWARDS VARSITY REINING CLUB YOUTHS OF THE YEAR

Oklahoma City, OK – January 22, 2010 – Over the last three years, the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA) has developed and fine tuned an online program that rewards youth for their positive actions outside of the show arena. The Varsity Reining Club (VRC) was established to engage youth members and encourage them to become more active at both the local and national levels. This program offers NRHyA members opportunities to contribute to their association in addition to developing valuable life skills preparing them to be successful, contributing members of society.
In 2009, VRC was modified to allow members to earn prizes as they contribute. The new program is similar to a credit card rewards program. The youth answered the challenge by submitting fantastic activities throughout the year. Overall, the program grew 35 percent in new members and handed out terrific awards to youth participants.


MORE ABOUT VRC
Youth members are awarded points by doing any combination of projects listed at vrc.nrhya.com. Each youth chooses the subject area they are strongest in whether it be arts and crafts, photography or if they are more philanthropic in their efforts by doing volunteer work in their community or helping out at shows. Other subject areas include creative writing, fundraising or leadership activities such as holding or attending NRHyA meetings.
VRC’s most prestigious award is the “Youth of the Year,” where youth are highlighted for earning the most points through their activities. This year 10 youth will be recognized and $3,000 in scholarships will be awarded for their efforts as collective “Youths of the Year.”
In the Varsity level (ages 14-18), the top five individuals will split $1,500 in scholarships. First and second place are shared by NRHA members Alexis Daggett and Jordan Willette, who each earned 2010 points in the program. Alexis submitted over 50 activities, which included photography, community service projects with her school during the holidays and her county fair as well as fund-raising projects benefiting the NRHyA. Jordan submitted over 60 activities, which included community service projects with the St. Vincent De Paul Society as well as helping with her local Arizona Reining Horse Association youth group by holding meetings and fund-raisers.
Third place went to Christi Gordon with 1,437 points. Christi, a past “Youth of the Year” winner in 2008, submitted numerous photos and art work, not to mention several leadership activities with her Rocky Mountain Reining Horse Association (RMRHA) youth affiliate. Fourth went to Samantha Belcher with 1,316 points. Samantha is also a member of RMRHA and is very involved in her club as well as other community service projects with her school. Rounding out the Varsity group is Mary Nuernberger with 885 points placing fifth. Mary submitted a number of creative writing assignments as well as helping out at her local zoo and informing others about NRHyA.
In the Junior Varsity level (ages 13 & under), the top five individuals will split $1,500 in scholarships. First place goes to Amy Stoney with 2,198. Amy showcased her talents in photography with numerous equine photos from her family’s ranch, Stoney’s Performance Horses in McClave, Colorado. While Amy also submitted community service activities it was her dedication to photography that was her main focus for 2009.
Second place goes to Reilly Quist with 1,390 points. Reilly’s main focus was giving back to her community whether it was helping tutor fellow youth after school or helping with school events. Third goes to Darby Mailhot with 1,240 points. Darby worked with a variety of activities including community service, photography and arts and crafts. Fourth place was awarded to Saeda Quist with 1,040 points. Like her sister Reilly, Saeda was right by her side helping out at school activities in an effort to make her community a better place. Last, but not least, was Shanae Stratton who earned 970 points in fifth place. Shanae donated much of her time to the Wild West Child Care Facility with community service, but was also active in the arts and crafts, creative writing, and photography.
For more information on the National Reining Horse Youth Association’s Varsity Reining Club, please visit vrc.nrhya.com, or contact Youth and Outreach Program Manager Brian Bendele at 405-946-7400 ext 130 or bbendele@nrha.com.

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The Sanctuary To Host Bernie Traurig Clinic to Benefit Horses and Heroes

Ocala, FL (January 25, 2010) – Olympian Bernie Traurig, one of the most respected and sought after clinicians in the country, will be offering a clinic at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Ocala on February 5, 6 and 7. Presented by Global Connection, a portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Horses and Heroes.

The legendary Traurig, who represented the United States Equestrian Team both at home and abroad, reached the top of the sport in all three of the International Equestrian Olympic disciplines -- show jumping, dressage, and eventing. Traurig’s resume is vast, including winning over 60 show jumping grand prix’s, represented the United States eight times in World Cup Finals, being inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame and being short listed in dressage for the World Championship Trials and the Olympic Games.
“This is an amazing opportunity for riders to learn from one of the world’s greatest masters of equestrian sport,” said Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary. “Bernie has competed at the top of the sport in dressage, hunters, jumpers and eventing. We really couldn’t ask for a more talented and legendary clinician.”

McDuffee added that everyone will also get a chance to meet Traurig at the welcome party on Saturday night and enjoy great food, drinks, live music and a silent auction. Tickets for the Saturday night party are $35 if purchased by February 5 and $40 on the day of the event. “In addition, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Horses and Heroes so the entire weekend will be great fun, educational and benefit a worthy cause.”
Traurig brings 53 years of experience to the clinic, which will be held at the state-of-the-art Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, a multi-million dollar facility dedicated to the healing, conditioning and well being of all equine athletes. “The Sanctuary features some of the most advanced conditioning and rehab equipment in the world,” McDuffee said. “Our advanced conditioning and rehab equipment helps equine athletes in all disciplines stay fit, avoid injury, and recover faster and more completely from injuries they might experience when competing in intense and physically demanding sports.”

For more information on the clinic with Bernie Traurig, call Regan Bauman at 352-362-3071 or email at reganbauman@yahoo.com. The cost of the clinic is $375 for Saturday and Sunday or $200 for one day. There is no fee for professionals. For more information on The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, visit their website at www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com.

Two “Not to Miss” Highlights of the Winter Equestrian Festival Social Scene Planned To Benefit The EQUUS Foundation

WESTPORT, CT - January 25, 2010 - Plans for the two fundraising events of The EQUUS Foundation during the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, are moving forward quickly. The Equestrian Idol, just a few weeks away on February 12, 2010, will feature a musical talent show performed and judged by equestrians.

A highlight of the Winter Equestrian Festival social scene, the event presented by title sponsor, Foundation Farm, will be held at the International Polo Club. Returning performers, Dianna Bricker, Heather Caristo, Hillary Dobbs, Casey Hodges, Brian Lookabill, and Chad Watridge, and newcomers, Jordan LaPlaca, Colton Mason, and Rick Rockefeller-Silvia, will vie for the title of 2010 Equestrian Idol. Jen White Kane, 2009 Equestrian Idol, and Ki-Juan Minors, 2008 Equestrian Idol, will also perform for the audience. The judges include Margie Goldstein-Engle, Leslie Howard and Frank Madden.

This very entertaining event will be followed by the Fete Cheval Carnivale on February 26, 2010, also at the International Polo Club, featuring cocktails, dinner, carnival games and a gymkhana performed by some of the world's top riders. Hillary Dobbs, Kent Farrington, Sandy Ferrell, Brianne Goutal, Patricia Griffith, Todd Minikus, Bert Mutch, Rodrigo Pessoa, Peter Pletcher, Havens Schatt, Louise Serio, Shane Sweetnam, Jimmy Torano, and McLain Ward will compete at this unique event presented by title sponsor, Spy Coast Farm. Karen Flynn of the University of Miami Intercollegiate Equestrian Team will be generously donating the horses for the event

Over 100 guests gathered on Sunday, January 17, 2010 for a preview party hosted by Foundation Farm and Visse Wedell, including Patricia Adikes Hill, Dianna Bricker, Bobbie Braun and Frank Roccanova, Gwen and Derek Braun, Sloan Brown, Paul Butterworth, Alexandra Cherubini, Lynn Coakley and David Taylor, Christian Currey, Carol and Hugh Dollard, Gray Fadden, Jerry Foy, Bridget Hallman, Kris Livengood, Michael Meller, Sheila Motleyh, Douglas Mutch, Ron Neal, Mason Phelps Jr., Kathryn and Denise Quirk, Philip Richter, Eduardo Salas, Tracey Topping, Kim Tudor, Sandy Van Dyke, Carolyn Vincent, Kelli and Woodford Webb, Visse Wedell and Eben Hall, and Lyman T. Whitehead.

These are two "not to miss" events. To R.s.v.p., visit the EQUUS website at www.equusfoundation.org or contact The EQUUS Foundation by email at equus@equusfoundation.org or by phone at (203) 259-1550.

Event proceeds will be used to provide homes and useful lives for horses by funding programs for horse rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, retirement, therapeutic riding, equine-assisted activities and programs to elevate the equestrian sport. The EQUUS Foundation helps equestrian and horse-related charities across the United States and have awarded over $1.3 million in grants since 2003.

Francine Dismukes Wins Raffle Sponsored by Equilite At 2010 USEF Annual Convention

Louisville, KY (January 22, 2010) – Francine Dismukes may have been at the 2010 USEF Annual Convention to offer continuing education to judges on Andalusians and Lusitanos, but the Texas judge and driver also ended up winning a raffle sponsored by Equilite. Producers of award-winning herbal animal health products and supplement blends, including Sore No More®, Equilite was a sponsor of the event.

Dismukes won a recyclable tote filled with hundreds of dollars worth of Equilite products, and said she looks forward to using the products on her horses. Dismukes operates FHD Training Stables in Luling, Texas, and is very involved in the driving world, driving from singles to four-in-hand teams.

“Now I am concentrating on Andalusians and I have a Four-In-Hand Andalusian team,” Dismukes said, adding that for many years she served as a judge, trainer and competitor in the Arabian horse industry. “I was at the USEF convention to sit on a panel for the Andalusians and Lusitanos. Winning the Equilite gift was great.”

Stacey Small, CEO of Equilite, said, “It was a pleasure to have Francine win the Equilite raffle at the convention. I am confident that she will enjoy using all of our products on her horses, including Sore No More, which has twice been voted Product of the Year by the Horse Journal.”

Equilite’s line of award-winning herbal animal health products and supplement blends helps manage a horse's attitude and natural lifestyle. “Whether you are looking to change your horse's behavior or simply maintain a healthy horse naturally, our products are the best choice for you and your horse,” Small said. “They contain no sugars, no fillers and no chemicals and are proudly made with human grade ingredients in the USA.”

For more information on Equilite products, visit their website at www.equilite.com or call 1-800-942-5483.

About Equilite

Equilite is part of the Arenus family of products. Arenus is a premier provider of innovative health and nutrition products for pets and horses. A growing division within Novus Nutrition Brands LLC., a global company dedicated to animal performance, health and longevity.

Sanctuary spokeshorse is the first-ever to host his own major art show!

Conifer, CO. January 1, 2010


Victoor, the Harmony HorseWorks “spokeshorse,” will headline the world’s first equine art exhibit to be hosted by a horse and featuring him in art by famous artists of the ages as reinterpreted in paintings by his owner, Barbara Wright! Opening night at the Center for the Arts Evergreen in Evergreen, Colorado is May 28, 2010 from 5 to 8 PM and the show runs through the end of June 2010. Vic is featured in 20 large-format paintings that pay homage to Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko, Paul Cezanne, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, Rene Magritte, Jackson Pollock, Gustav Klimt, Christo, Edgar Degas, Fritz Scholder, John Nieto, Dan Namingha, Marc Chagall, Franz Marc, Theodore Gericault, George Stubbs, Henri Matisse and more. Selected paintings by Barbara Wright are previewed each month at The Wild Eye Gallery at 28235 Hwy. 74 (Main Street) in historic downtown Evergreen, CO prior to the May exhibit.


Vic will meet and greet the art-loving public and be ready to eat apples and carrots. “Horses have very definite opinions about art,” Vic explains. Harmony HorseWorks is an equine sanctuary in the Colorado Front Range mountains where Vic and his 8 herdmates live, train, educate, instruct and loaf. He is the world’s first equine art critic to go public in such a big way. To date, his human, Barbara Wright, an equine artist and founder of the sanctuary, has completed 16 of the 20 scheduled canvases.


“I’ve seen many horses in paintings lounging in pastures or mounted by their riders but I’ve never seen a horse actually doing anything productive in or with art. I wanted to correct the misunderstanding that all horses do is loaf. I chose art for my message because I know that painting is such a powerful agent of change,” says Vic. “I come from the Arabian horse show circuit where my good looks got my high show rankings, but I was then purchased by my human at a livestock auction for $825 after owning a $35,000 price tag, so I know what it means to go from riches to rags in an instant,” he adds. “I was just one of the thousands of horses that end up that way. I could trot around and tell my story and make people feel sorry for me and my species, but I wanted to contribute more than that. What better way to inform people of the plight of today’s unwanted horses and highlight our intelligence than through non-invasive education using beautiful, startling and funny images? Lucky for me, my two-legged artist agrees.”


For more information about the art, horse sanctuary and Vic, contact:

Victoor (Vic) or his human, Barbara Wright

Harmony HorseWorks

Horse Sanctuary & 501(c)(3) nonprofit corp.

13639 Elsie Road, Conifer, CO 80433

(303) 816-0766

harmonyhorsewrks@aol.com

www.harmonyhorseworks.com




For more information about the show, venue and exhibit details, contact:

Steve Sumner

Center for the Arts Evergreen

323003-B Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen CO 80439

(303) 679-1609

executive.director@evergreenarts.org

www.evergreenarts.org

Meredith Darst Claims Tricolor in Gotham North Small Pony Hunters on Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone

Wellington, FL - January 24, 2010 - The second week of competition concluded today at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. All eyes were on the Pony Hunters at the South Grounds of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center today.

Meredith Darst added another tricolor to her list of accolades with the championship win in the Gotham North Small Pony Hunters on Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone. Darst and Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone, who is owned by Lochmoor Stables, won the first class over fences yesterday and claimed the first and second places over fences today to secure the championship.

Today's handy hunter course included several roll backs, an in-and-out, and a trot fence, but "there weren't very many places to be handy. It was pretty straightforward," Darst noted after winning the class.

Darst calls Lebanon, OH, home, but she resides in Wellington during the 12-week circuit. The 12-year-old Darst is in sixth grade, but studies with a private tutor during the circuit to allow her to pursue her equestrian endeavors. Between school and riding, Darst stays very busy, but she likes to swim and play tennis in her free time.

Darst is always in high demand at the horse show, and her feet never seem to stay on the ground for too long, since she shows about 11 ponies and horses per weekend. It is no surprise that she is such a popular catch rider, seeing as her talents range from the Small Pony Hunters to the Large Junior Hunter 15 & Under division, in which Darst was reserve champion on All Seasons Farm's In The Black today.

When Darst rides Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone, she trains with Richard Cunkle and Rob Coluccio. She very much enjoys riding Hillcrest's Blue Gem Stone, whom she says is "a lot of fun and is really easy."

Darst has already been awarded several tricolors in the first two weeks of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and she says her goal is to "continue to be successful" in the remaining weeks of circuit.

Other winners this weekend in the Small Pony Hunters included Star Command, ridden by Alden Price and owned by Christa Carson, as well as Ballou, who was ridden by Daisy Farish and is owned by Victoria Colvin. Ballou and Farish were also awarded the reserve championship in the Small Pony Hunter division.

Hunter competition will continue next week during week three of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, which runs from January 27-31.

For full results please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.
Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Kilkenny Randall Z and Nicole Shahinian-Simpson Race to Victory in $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic at 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL - January 23, 2010 - Over a field of 12 in the jump-off, Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Kilkenny Randall Z raced to a fast double clear result to win the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic over Eliza Shuford on Little John and Reed Kessler with Mika.

This was the final day of the second week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and the week two title sponsor is Purina Mills. The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 4, 2010, and the circuit will be awarding almost $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Steve Stephens of Palmetto, FL, designed today's course and it featured 12 numbered obstacles, including a vertical-oxer-vertical triple combination and the open water with a rail. Thirty-four entries attempted the first round, and 12 came away with a clear round.

The early leaders were Eliza Shuford and Little John, who put in a double clear performance in 49.973 seconds. They went second in the jump-off. The next double clear challenger was Reed Kessler and Mika, who stopped the clock in 52.044 seconds. A very fast contender was Pablo Barrios on G&C La Gran, who finished in 46.534 seconds but had four faults coming into the combination in the last line.

Going second to last in the jump-off, Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Kilkenny Randall Z, a 16-year-old BWP gelding by Randel Z, zipped around the twisting jump-off course. They made a sharp turn back to the final line and Kilkenny Randall Z was able to fit in the two strides for the combination and soar over the final oxer to finish clear. They lowered the winning time to 48.868 seconds.

Shahinian-Simpson said of the course, "It was twisty, and there really wasn't any option to go inside anywhere. It was sort of the same track that we all had to do, just fast. The double, even in the first round, was very short. I took a real slice into there, and that's where age came in handy, and the experience on his part. He was very good there and put a bow in the two-stride, which just worked great. It was a lot of fun.

Shahinian-Simpson has been riding Kilkenny Randall Z since the end of last year. Kilkenny Randall Z is one of seven horses that owners Kilkenny Crest of Bend, OR, have with the Simpsons. Randall Z showed with Buddy Brown earlier, and he is coming back after time off. "At the end of the year, we did some small classes with him and focused on his fitness to gear him up for here," Shahinian-Simpson explained. "He showed a little bit last week and this week. He'll have a rest and then hit some of the bigger ones."

She described Kilkenny Randall Z as "a total gentleman," and went on to say, "He's really easy to ride, very classical to ride. Even though he's 15, mentally he just loves going in the ring. He's a real showman. It makes my job easier."

Week two of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has concluded. Week three, sponsored by Nespresso, will run from January 27-31, 2010, with a full schedule of hunter and jumper competition.

For full results and more information, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

Final Results: $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic
1. KILKENNY RANDALL Z, NICOLE SHAHINIAN-SIMPSON, KILKENNY CREST: 0/0/48.868
2. LITTLE JOHN, ELIZA SHUFORD, ELIZA SHUFORD: 0/0/49.973
3. MIKA, REED KESSLER, REED KESSLER: 0/0/52.044
4. G&C LAGRAN, PABLO BARRIOS, PABLO BARRIOS / GUSTAVO & CAROLINA MIRABAL: 0/4/46.534
5. KELLINE FONROY, CLEMENTINE GOUTAL, CLOVERLEAF FARMS: 0/4/48.340
6. CANTERO Z, BETH UNDERHILL, IRON HORSE FARM: 0/4/50.782
7. LORD G, CARA RAETHER, TRELAWNY FARM LLC: 0/4/51.345
8. ORIFLAMME D'HOUTVELD, JEFFERY WELLES, DUNWALKE LLC: 0/4/52.957
9. ROBBY LEE, JOSE REGA, VICTORIA D'AGOSTINO: 0/5/55.203
10. MURKA'S NEVADA VI, PETER CHARLES, OLGA WHITE: 0/6/56.314
11. NEMO 119, NICK SKELTON, BEVERLY WIDDOWSON: 0/7/57.072
12. TORTOLA, LAURA KRAUT, BEVERLY WIDDOWSON: 0/8/52.856

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Rolex FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2009/2010 - Round 8 in Leipzig

Leipzig (Ger), 24 January 2010

IT'S LADIES DAY AT LEIPZIG - AND A THREE-TIMER FOR JESSICA

The ladies dominated the line-up at the eighth leg of the Rolex FEI World Cup™ series in Leipzig, Germany today where Ireland's Jessica Kuerten produced a devastating burst of speed to pip runner-up Edwina Alexander from Australia and third-placed Frenchwoman Penelope Leprevost in a 16-way jump-off. The girls simply out-galloped the boys against the clock, and this was a particularly notable victory for Kuerten who also won this leg of the series in both 2008 and 2009 and so made it a Leipzig hat-trick today.

Frank Rothenberger's first-round track produced plenty of clear rounds but the big questions were all posed in the jump-off. Riders had some tough decisions to make as the snaking second-round course asked for some super-tight turns. As it emerged however, it was simply the exceptional speed of Kuerten's Castle Forbes Libertina that would win the day.

BIG IMPRESSION
Kenneth Cheng, the 22 year old rider from Hong Kong who made such a big impression at last summer's Olympic Games, was first out in the timed round with the aptly-named Jockey Club Can Do. The 11 year old horse was courageous and willing all the way but, asked to stand a very long way off the oxer at fence six, he hit that for four faults in 42.75 seconds. That would prove a competitive time however.

Australia's Philipp Lever and the grey, Ashleigh Drossel Dan, were next to go and showed they too were well up to the challenge when producing a lovely clear to set the new target in 45.04. Sweden's Svante Johansson had two down with Saint Amour while Portugal's Luciana Diniz and Winningmood left the vertical at fence four on the floor, but Germany's Lars Nieberg increased the pressure when returning fault-free with Levito in 42.98 seconds to a great roar of encouragement from the crowd.

Piergiorgio Bucci's Kanebo clearly didn't mean to refuse at the second fence but couldn't believe he was being asked to jump it at such an acute angle and the Italian pair came home with six faults on the board, while Germany's Max Kuhner was looking good right up to the final Rolex oxer only to loose it all there with Coeur du Lion who crashed through for four faults in 43.84. His fellow-countryman Philipp Weishaupt however was foot-perfect when demoting Nieberg from pole position with a great run in 42.21 seconds. His advantage didn't last long though, as Marco Kutscher's four-fault effort with Cornet Obolensky was immediately followed by a scorching round from Penelope Leprevost.

DARE-DEVIL
The key to the Frenchwoman's edge was her dare-devil turn after the double which brought Mylord Carthago home in 41.13 seconds, and when home star Ludger Beerbaum failed to threaten that as he galloped through the finish in 41.96 seconds it seemed some serious risk-taking would be required to oust the French partnership from pole position. There would be another Australian clear however, and as Edwina Alexander shaved almost a full second off the target with a fabulous round from the diminutive Cevo Itot du Chateau there were only four more left to go - and plenty of excitement still to come.

The Netherlands' Gerco Schroder and Eurocommerce New Orleans picked up eight faults but, third-last into the ring, Marcus Ehning set his home crowd alight with a thrilling run from Plot Blue that would very likely have challenged for the win if they had mastered the turn after the penultimate double. Leprevost executed this perfectly, cutting inside the vertical that stood in the way of a clear run to the last, but Ehning very nearly collided with the upright and lost precious fractions of seconds before untangling himself and racing down to cross the finish-line in 41.19 seconds.

THOUGHT ABOUT IT
Kuerten thought about it long and hard before she set off. She knows she is riding arguably the fastest show jumping horse in the world, and Castle Forbes Libertina returned to action after a seven-month injury layoff with all the joie de vivre that makes her such a sensation to finish second in the Rolex FEI World Cup™ Jumping qualifier at Mechelen in Belgium just after Christmas. "I didn't like the look of the turn after the double, so I took a line that nobody else, except Delestre, tried to do between the first two fences and it paid off" she explained afterwards. Her new route gave her some leeway later on the track so she let Libertina do what she does best, taking the longer route to the final oxer but galloping like the wind all the way. And when Delestre and Napoli du Ry left two fences on the floor the victory was an Irish one.

The German crowd was more than happy to celebrate the victory of the rider who has made Germany her home for many years now and, like Kuerten, they applauded her brilliant 14 year old mare. "She was smooth and fast and absolutely brilliant!" Kuerten said afterward, "I'm so happy with her!".

This result now shoots her up to second position on the Rolex FEI World Cup™ Jumping leaderboard which continues to be headed by Holland's Eric Van der Vleuten, and with 51 points to her credit Kuerten is well-qualified for the series final in Geneva in April. For those who have not quite made the cut yet there are still five more qualifiers remaining, and the next thriller is set to take place in Zurich, Switzerland next weekend.

Result: 1, Castle Forbes Libertina (Jessica Kuerten) Irl 0/0 40.52; 2, Cevo Itot du Chateau (Edwina Alexander) Aus 0/0 40.71; 3, Mylord Carthago (Penelope Leprevost) Fra 0/0 41.13; 4, Plot Blue (Marcus Ehning) Ger 0/0; 5, Couleur Rubin (Ludger Beerbaum) Ger 0/0 41.96; 6, Catoki (Philipp Weishaupt) Ger 0/0 42.21; 7, Levito (Lars Nieberg) Ger 0/0 42.98; 8, Ashleigh Drossel Dan (philipp Lever) Aus 0/0 45.04; 9, Jockey Club Can Do (Kenneth Cheng) HKG 0/4 42.75; 10, Coeur de Lion (Max Kuhner) Ger 0/4 43.84; 11, Cornet Obolensky (Marco Kutscher) Ger 0/4 44.12; 12, Winningmood (Luciana Diniz) Por 0/4 46.83; 13, Kanebo (Piergiorgio Bucci) Ita 0/6 58.31; 14, Napoli du Ry (Simon Delestre) Fra 0/8 41.08; 15, Svante Johansson) Swe 0/8 46.74; 16, Eurocommerce New Orleans (Gerco Schroder) Ned 0/8 52.05. Full results at www.engarde.de

ROLEX FEI WORLD CUP™ JUMPING - Standings after Round 8 at Leipzig, Germany:

1. Eric Van der Vleuten - 57
2. Jessica Kuerten - 51
3. Pius Schwizer - 48
4. Penelope Leprevost - 47
5. Ludger Beerbaum - 46
6. Kevin Staut - 46
7. Marcus Ehning - 44
8. Natale Chiaudani - 44
9. Rodrigo Pessoa - 41
10. Daniel Etter - 40
11. Marco Kutscher - 40
12. Philipp Weishaupt - 40
13. Michael Whitaker - 39
14. Edwina Alexander - 34
15. Albert Zoer - 29
16. Patrice Deleveau - 29
17. Patrick McEntee - 28
18. Dermott Lennon - 28
18. Ben Maher - 28
20. Svante Johansson - 24

Facts and Figures:
This was the third consecutive year for Ireland's Jessica Kuerten to win the Rolex FEI World Cup™ Qualifier at Leipzig.
A total of 9,000 spectators enjoyed today's competition.
A total of 16 riders jumped clear to go into the second-round jump-off.
The first three places went to lady riders.
Great Britain's Ellen Whitaker was unlucky to miss out on the jump-off when picking up just a single first-round time penality with Equimax Ocolado.
A total of 14 horses made a single mistake in the first round.
Three riders retired - Germany's Felix Hassmannn (Horse Gym's Lianos), Denmark's Thomas Velin (Godsend du Reverdy) and Austria's Thomas Fruhmann (The Sixth Sense).

Quotes:
Edwina Alexander who finished second with Itot du Chateau - "In the jump-off there was nothing I could do but to ride as quickly as I could - and I couldn't have gone any faster!"
Jessica Kuerten, when asked what her plans are for the 2010 season "We are not making any big plans right now, we'll just keep jumping and see how it goes".

Website: www.engarde.de

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR WESTERN EUROPEAN LEAGUE: 1, Oslo (Norway) 9-11 October; 2, Helsinki (Finland) 15-18 October; 3, Lyon (FRA) 28 Oct-1 November; 4, Verona (Italy) 5-8 November; 5, Stuttgart (Germany) 15-22 November; 6, London-Olympia (Great Britain) 15-21 December; 7, Mechelen (Belgium) 26-30 December; 8, Leipzig (Germany) 21-24 January; 9, Zurich (SUI) 28-31 January; 10, Bordeaux (France) 5-7 February; 11, Vigo (Spain) 11-14 February; 12, Gothenburg (Sweden) 25-28 February; 13, s'Hertogenbosch (The Netherlands) 25-28 March; FINAL - Geneva (Switzerland) 14-18 April.

Broadcast Schedule can be downloaded from www.feiworldcup.org

FEI World Cup™ Driving 2009/2010 Leipzig

Leipzig (Ger), 24 January 2010


Würgler takes it all in Leipzig
Switzerland’s Daniel Würgler has won the sixth leg of the FEI World CupÔ Driving competition in Leipzig, Germany. Würgler drove two impeccable clear and fast rounds and stayed ahead of Dutch wild card driver IJsbrand Chardon and Jozsef Dobrovitz from Hungary with their Lipizzaner teams.

Second World Cup Win
It is only the second time in his long driving career that Würgler wins a World Cup Competition. In 2002, the professional coachman from Ettingen won the World Cup competition in Geneva, competing with a wild card. The 49-year-old Würgler competes with a mixed team of grey horses, including two Kladruber horses, a trotter and an Andalusian cross Camargue, which has only been in Würgler’s stables since last spring.

Winning round
Dobrovitz had the disadvantage of starting first in the winning round straight after his first round, which did not allow his horses the necessary rest. There was much at stake for the organizer of the international nations competition in Vecses since winning in Leipzig was his only chance to qualify for the Final. But Dobrovitz knocked three balls down with his three Lipizzaner horses and a trotter, which he put together after he sold three horses of his former team to Chardon. Dobrovitz came third and currently shares the 6th place in the standings with Werner Ulrich.

Hectic weekend
Winner of the 2009 Partner Pferd edition, IJsbrand Chardon had a hectic weekend. The four times World Champion travelled back to the Netherlands on Saturday to perform in a driving demonstration with his son Bram at Jumping Amsterdam. Chardon only returned to Leipzig early Sunday morning, but the travelling apparently did not affect his performance in the sold out Leipziger Messe.

Borrowed horses
Winner of the warming up competition Jozsef Dobrovitz managed to stay ahead of Christoph Sandmann, who missed the winning round by just one second. Sandmann borrowed a horse of Dutch four-in-hand driver Pascal Donders in the lead to speed up his team and was very satisfied with his performance. Sandmann was not the only competitor in Leipzig who competed with borrowed horses. Theo Timmerman from the Netherlands drove with a team borrowed from his Dutch colleague Edwin Spek. The team exists of two KWPN horses, a New Forest and a Welsh horse. The small horses do however miss the necessary indoor experience to end at the top. Timmerman came sixth, but will compete with these horses again at the last World CupÔ Driving competition in Bordeaux.

Spectators praised
Jiri Nesvacil drove his Kladruber horses to the fifth place today in the fast and fair course, designed by Germany’s Dr. Wolfgang Asendorf. Second wild card driver and local hero Steffen Scholz drove two young horses and came seventh but was very proud and pleased to perform in front of his home crowd, who were praised by all drivers for their amazing enthusiasm.

Ready for the Final
The Organization of the Partner Pferd event in Leipzig is ready for the Triple World CupÔ Final in 2011. The FEI World CupÔ Finals Jumping, Dressage and Driving will all take place in the Leipziger Messe from 27th April to 1st May 2011 and the run for tickets has already begun!


Quotes
Daniel Würgler (Sui): “My horses have really ‘landed’ here in Leipzig, they were fantastic! I thought I would let Chardon and Dobrovitz battle for victory between them and just drive my own round. I decided to go as fast as I could control them and I won!” “Last year I came second in Leipzig behind Chardon and it is fantastic that it is the other way around now.”

IJsbrand Chardon (Ned): “The Lipizzaner horses are getting better every time, helped by my experienced KWPN-horse Kelvin. I had nothing to loose in Leipzig because I could not earn World Cup points as wild card driver. The horses went very well despite a small communication problem in the first round. They are becoming more and more my horses and I am happy to end in the Top Two again.”

Joszef Dobrovitz (Hun): “It was a great show in Leipzig, the spectators were fantastic. I had a small time problem before the winning round, my horses, and especially one of my leader horses, did not have enough time to recuperate. I had small problems in the turns, which caused several balls to fall. But my new team is good. I have sold my best horses to Chardon, I would not have given him any other horses.”

Results CAI-W Leipzig:
1. Daniel Würgler (Sui) 228,67
2. IJsbrand Chardon (Ned) wild card 235,28
3. Jozsef Dobrovitz (Hun) 254,51
4. Christoph Sandmann (Ger) 127,62
5. Jiri Nesvacil (Cze) 136,87
6. Theo Timmerman (Ned) 138,85
7. Steffen Scholz (Ger) wild card 160,59

Classification after 6 of 7 events:
1 Boyd EXELL AUS 30
2 Koos DE RONDE NED 24
3 Tomas ERIKSSON SWE 20
4 Daniel WURGLER SUI 18
5 IJsbrand CHARDON NED 15
6 Werner ULRICH SUI 12
6 Jozsef DOBROVITZ HUN 12
8 Christoph SANDMANN GER 10
9 Theo TIMMERMAN NED 6
10 Jiri Nesvacil CZE 5

Mario Deslauriers and Urico Triumph in $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, CSI 2* at 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL - January 23, 2010 - By setting down a very quick, clean jump-off round, Mario Deslauriers (USA) and Urico, owned by Jane Clark, won the first major grand prix competition of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, CSI 2*. More than 4,000 people were in attendance for the first nighttime event at the FTI WEF, and they enjoyed an exciting jump-off.

Following behind Deslauriers in the awards presentation were Nick Skelton (GBR) and Carlo 273, owned by Beverly Widdowson, in second place and Yann Candele (CAN) on Susan Grange's Pitareusa in third.

This is the second week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and the week two title sponsor is Purina Mills. Competition this week ends Sunday, January 24. The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 4, 2010, and the circuit will be awarding almost $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Purina Mills Event Marketing Manager Nancy Shearer commented, "This is our first year to sponsor WEF, and we're really excited to be here. We're here to preview our products, and we sell our Purina feed on the show grounds. A lot of the riders use Purina feed, and we want to support the riders."

Course designer Steve Stephens of Palmetto, FL, designed a track with13 numbered obstacles that included a line with the open water to a combination with liverpool. There were 40 entries in the first round, and six of those were clear to advance to the jump-off. Deslauriers said of the course, "I thought the course was quite good. It was difficult and a lot of work, but it was good."

The first to return in the jump-off would prove to be unbeatable. Mario Deslauriers and Urico, a nine-year-old Dutch gelding by Zandor Z, were very neat and quick throughout the twisting jump-off course. Deslauriers made a great slice across "The Breakers" wall jump and kept moving forward through short turns. They waited down the last line to keep the final, delicate gate vertical standing, and then crossed the timers in 40.34 seconds.

"I set the pace," Deslauriers said afterwards. "My horse is very, very quick. I was a little slow to the far oxer, but other than that I was pretty much on track. My horse has a big step and is extremely quick in the air. If I can keep it pretty steady and smooth, people have to run. I was lucky that no one beat me. Yann beat me, but he had one (fence) down. It was a great class."

Following Deslauriers, Nick Skelton and Carlo 273 looked to be very fast as well. Skelton made a good turn to the final line and when they stopped the clock, they were just two-tenths of a second behind the winner with a clean round in 40.51 seconds, which would leave them in second place.

Skelton said, "This was the first time my horse has jumped a grand prix, and it was the first time he's been under the lights. I was happy with him. If he'd been third or fourth and jumped clear, I would have been happy. I was maybe a little bit slow to number one. That's where I'd say I lost it, but I was really pleased with him."

Yann Candele and Pitareusa were the fastest in the jump-off in 37.98 seconds, but a costly four faults at the vertical into the one-stride combination left them in third place.

McLain Ward (USA) and Rothchild, owned by Sagamore Farm, would suffer the same fate with a rail at the combination, and a slower time of 40.79 seconds placed them fourth. Beezie Madden (USA) and Danny Boy had a rail at the fourth jump in the shortened course and their time of 45.82 seconds put them in fifth place. Katie Monahan-Prudent (FRA) and Sassicaia II had a quick round going, but a misstep in the final line led to a fall. Monahan-Prudent was eliminated and finished in sixth place.

Deslauriers is a native Canadian and became an American citizen in September of 2009. He first rode for the United States team at the Nations Cup in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in November last year, but this is his first grand prix win as an American. "It feels great!" he exclaimed. "Jane was here tonight, and everybody was here to watch. It's always good to start on a good note. The (World Equestrian Games) trials are coming up, and we've got important classes. The horse seems to be in good form. We should have a good season."

Deslauriers started riding Urico in April of last year and they had a very good tour at Spruce Meadows in the summer, winning five classes at the 1.40-1.45m level. They also competed in the World Cup qualifier in Syracuse in November. "He was only eight last year. We were trying to peak for these trials coming up to go to the World Equestrian Games," he explained. "This is our number one."

Tomorrow's competition concludes week two of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Sunday's competition highlight is the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic at 1 p.m.

For full results and more information, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

Final Results: $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix, CSI 2*
Horse, Age, Breed, Sex, Sire, Dam Sire
Rider, Nationality, Owner: First Round Score, Second Round Score, Second Round Time
1. URICO: 9yo KWPN gelding by Zandor Z xx Fedor
MARIO DESLAURIERS (USA), JANE CLARK: 0/0/40.34

2. CARLO 273: 9yo HOLST gelding by Contender xx Cascavelle
NICK SKELTON (GBR), BEVERLY WIDDOWSON: 0/0/40.51

3. PITAREUSA: 13yo KWPN mare by Andiamo xx Legaat
YANN CANDELE (CAN), SUSAN GRANGE: 0/4/37.98

4. ROTHCHILD: 9yo BLGN gelding by Artos xx Elegant De L'ile
MCLAIN WARD (USA), SAGAMORE FARMS: 0/4/40.79

5. DANNY BOY: 10yo BWP gelding by Clinton xx Alexis Z
BEEZIE MADDEN (USA), ABIGAIL WEXNER: 0/4/45.82

6. SASSICAIA II: 14yo KWPN mare by Kojak xx Boreas
KATHERINE MONAHAN-PRUDENT (FRA), PLAIN BAY FARM: 0/elim

7. UP CHIQUI: 13yo BWP gelding by Quidam De Revel xx Chin Chin
KENT FARRINGTON (USA), BOONE, DOBBS & FARRINGTON: 4/84.80

8. Q'S CHARM: 11yo KWPN gelding by Burggraaf xx Akteur
RAMIRO QUINTANA (ARG), KATHRYN QUIRK: 4/88.84

9. HIDDEN CREEK'S CAMPELLA: 10yo SWED mare by Cardento xx Stanford 687 MARGIE ENGLE (USA) HIDDEN CREEK'S FARM: 4/89.54

10. ASLAN: 10yo DWB gelding by Aston xx Blue Hors Agent
LJUBOV KOCHETOVA (RUS), LJUBOV KOCHETOVA: 4/89.95

11. G& C BLANCHEE Z: 9yo BWP mare by Utrillo Van De Heffinck xx Darco
PABLO BARRIOS (VEN), GUSTAVO AND CAROLINA MIRABAL: 5/91.57

12. RONALDO: 12yo gelding by Heartbreaker xx Voltaire
ERIC LAMAZE (CAN), ASHLAND STABLES: 5/91.69

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Chase Boggio and Rockford Capture the Large Junior Hunter 16-17

Clara Lindner for Equestrian Sport Productions

Wellington, FL - January 23, 2010 - Championships were awarded today in some of the Junior Hunter and Amateur-Owner divisions at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center during the second week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival.

Junior hunters were showcased today in the Rost Arena, where Chase Boggio and Norgan Inc.'s Rockford picked up the tricolor in the Large Junior Hunter 16-17 division. Boggio and Rockford won the handy hunter class yesterday, and they placed first and second over fences today for a grand total of 26 points to claim the championship. The reserve champion ribbon went to Kelsey Thatcher and Pony Lane Farm's Gianni.

Rockford is a new ride for Boggio, who has only shown the bay gelding once prior to this weekend. Rockford also shows in the Second Year Green Hunters with Nora Thomas. Boggio is thankful for the ride on Rockford whom he says is "never fresh, doesn't really look at the jumps at all, and is very easy to ride. You can just get on and go."

The pair won the handy round yesterday, which Boggio says is Rockford's forte. "He was meant to be an equitation horse when they first got him, so he's really good at the handy rounds," Boggio acknowledged.

Sixteen-year-old Boggio is originally from Atlanta, GA, but has been commuting back and forth from Wellington to Ocala, where he rides with Bob Braswell and Christina Schlusemeyer. Boggio is currently a junior in high school, and he plans to continue showing throughout the spring at the Aiken, Atlanta, and Devon horse shows.

Boggio hopes to continue his success in the coming weeks, noting, "I would like to improve on some of the things that I might be a little rusty at. Just learning to ride all the different horses is a really good experience."

Amateur-Owner Hunters 36 & Over wrapped up their second week of competition today as well, and Lynn Walsh rode her own Mac Arthur Park to the championship. Other winners today included Tuscan Sun, owned by Peter Pletcher and ridden by Kelsie Brittan to the win in the first class of the Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under. The blue in the second class of the Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under went to Scott Stewart's Caligo, ridden by Victoria Colvin.

The second week of the 12-week FTI Winter Equestrian Festival concludes tomorrow when the remaining Junior, Amateur, and Pony hunter championships will be awarded.

For full results please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

FEI World Cup™ Dressage - Round 7 at Amsterdam

GAL AND TOTILAS ON TOP IN AMSTERDAM

The Netherlands' Edward Gal and Moorlands Totilas swept to victory in the seventh leg of the FEI World Cup™ Dressage series in Amsterdam this afternoon to rocket up to the top of the series leaderboard. Once again thrilling both judges and spectators alike, the dynamic Dutch duo recorded a score of 87.70% as they high-stepped their way to success with their unique sparkle and panache. But the most remarkable thing about today's competition was the exceptionally high level of performance throughout the entire class. The sport of dressage has raised its game in dramatic fashion over the past 12 months, and horses and riders are meeting the challenge head-on.

Today, Great Britain's Laura Bechtolsheimer produced a wonderful test from Mistral Hojris to slot into second place with a score that was only just over four points behind the spectacular winners while Holland's Imke Schellekens-Bartels and Hunter Douglas Sunrise, double-winners already this season, finished third. The host country's Anky Van Grunsven and Painted Black were fourth ahead of Germany's Isabell Werth and Warum Nicht FRH in fifth, and Bartels now jointly-shares top spot on the league table with Gal.

HELD THE LEAD
It was Hans Peter Minderhoud who held the lead going into the second-half of the competition following a bright and happy test from Exquis Nadine. The 15 year old chestnut mare executed her extended trot and passage with lady-like delicacy and precision, and her forward-moving canter was perfectly balanced by her Dutch rider's sensitive and sympathetic hand to achieve a mark of 76.70%.

This would only be good enough for sixth place in the final analysis however, and the first to better that score was multiple champion Isabell Werth from Germany. Quickly back in harness after the birth of her baby son Frederick last October the 40 year old rider has lost none of her competitive edge, but despite excellent pirouettes and canter-changes there was a loss of rhythm several times so the score of 79.80% from Warum Nicht might easily have been improved upon. Next to go, and fourth-last into the arena, was Bechtolsheimer and the chestnut gelding Mistral Hojris whose confidence and character seem to have grown in leaps and bounds since claiming team silver and individual bronze for Great Britain at the Alltech FEI European Dressage Championships in Windsor last summer. They showed exuberant half-pass, piaffe and extended trot that oozed quality while Bechtolsheimer's ear for her musical score ensured their timing was impeccable. Taking the lead with 82.30% on the board, they were always going to finish strongly.

THE EDGE
But Moorlands Totilas had the edge once more, although his rider has clearly learned the weight of the expectations now placed upon his able shoulders. Every time this partnership go in the ring now they are expected to break yet another world record, which is not altogether surprising since they have done so three times over the past 12 months. At Olympia in London just before Christmas they wowed the crowd with a breath-taking performance that achieved a spectacular score of 92.30% to finish a full 10 marks ahead of their nearest challengers, fellow-Dutch team members Adelinde Cornelissen and Parzival. Today's test was not of the same calibre - but it was still awesome and in a class of its own.

"Totilas felt a bit tense today" Gal admitted afterwards, "but he is an amazing horse to ride and he exceeds my expectations time and time again. I want to ride better next time" he said, but added, "people have high expectations though. When I was in Stuttgart I scored 79% and I was receiving text messages in which people were asking me - "Oh, didn't it go well?!" - and I would be like, well Yes, it did, but I can't score really high every time!".

Second-last to go was Van Grunsven who understands all too well the situation in which Gal now finds himself. The reigning Olympic champion has won more titles than most people would ever dream of and was an almost-untouchable force in the sport for many years, but the arrival of a whole new generation of contenders has changed everything. She demonstrated her determination to stay in the game today however with a great test from Painted Black which slotted her into fourth behind last-to-go Schellekens-Bartels who produced a lovely performance from Sunrise for third place today, and level-pegging with Gal at the top of the FEI World Cup™ Dressage leaderboard.

And with just two more qualifying legs remaining - at Neumunster (Ger) and Goteborg (Swe) next month - before the final at 's-Hertogenbosch (Ned) in March that is a good place to be.....

RESULT: 1, Moorlands Totilas (Edward Gal) Ned 87.00%; 2, Mistral Hojris (Laura Bechtolsheimer) GBR 82.30%; 3, Hunter Douglas Sunrise (Imke Schellekens-Bartels) Ned 82.05%; 4, IPS Painted Black (Anky Van Grunsven) Ned 81.20%; 5, Warum Nicht FRH (Isabell Werth) Ger 79.80%; 6, Exquis Nadine (Hans Peter Minderhoud) Ned 76.70%; 7, Watermill Scandic HBC (Patrik Kittel) Swe 75.50%; 8, Nartan (Jeannette Haazen) Ned 74.75%; 9, Apollo Van het Vijverhof (Jeroen Devroe) Bel 74.40%; 10, Ovation (Christa Laarakkers) Ned 73.55%; 11, Premier (Aat Van Essen) Ned 72.70%; 12, Krawall (Jenny Schreven) Ned 72.40%; 13, Poko Loko (Manon Van Hylckama Vlieg) Ned 69.10%; 14, Randon (Michal Rapcewicz) Pol 68.25%; 15, Wito Corleone 2 (Alexandra Bimschas) Ger 67.40%.

2009/2010 FEI WORLD CUP™ DRESSAGE - STANDINGS after Round 7 at Amsterdam (Ned) - Provisional

1, Edward Gal, Imke Schellekens-Bartels - 55
3. Jeannette Haazen - 48
4. Anky Van Grunsven - 47
5. Adelinde Cornelissen, Monica Theodorescu - 41
7. Aat Van Essen - 38
8. Patrik Kittel - 36
9. Mathias Alexander Rath - 35
10. Laura Bechtolsheimer - 32

Full standings at http://www.scg-nl.nl/

FACTS AND FIGURES:
This was the seventh of the nine qualifying rounds before the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final takes place at s'Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands 25-27 March.

The oldest horse in today's competition was the dark bay KWPN gelding Karwall ridden by Jenny Schreven of The Netherlands. Krawall is 18 years old and just 7 years younger than his 25 year old rider. This partnership made their Grand Prix debut in 2009, and the elevation in Krawall's movement today belied his advanced years.

A capacity audience of 6,000 spectators enjoyed today's competition in Amsterdam.

Today's judges were - At E: Leif Tornblad (Den), At H: Adriaan Hamoen) Ned, At C: Wim Emes (Ned), At M Jean-Michel Roudier (Fra), At B: Jacques van Daele (Bel).s

QUOTES:

Edward Gal, today's winner - '' It will be exciting to see how the final in Den Bosch goes. '
Imke Schellekens-Bartels - " I felt that my ride was very fluid and it went very well. My horse does not have the same movement as Totilas but she has amazing charisma and charm which is something I think shines through."
Wim Ernes (judge): "I am normally very calm and collected during judging, I have to be very concentrated. During this qualifier the riders really impressed me and the adrenaline started flowing."
Rogier van Iersel (sports director): "The organization of this years' event was fantastic. The competitions were very exciting and the visitors have really made the event complete. Without them it woulnd't have been the same."

WEBSITE: www.jumpingamsterdam.nls

Western European League Calendar 2009/2010:
1 Odense (DEN), 17 – 18 October
2 Lyon (FRA), 29 – 30 October
3 Stockholm (SWE), 28-29 November
4 London Olympia (GBR), 15-16 December
5 Frankfurt (GER), 19-20 December
6 Mechelen (BEL), 26-27 December
7 Amsterdam (NED), 22-23 January
8 Neumünster (GER), 20-21 February
9 Göteborg (SWE), 26-27 February
FINAL 's-Hertogenbosch (NED), 25-27 March

FEI World Cup™ Dressage, the only worldwide series in this discipline, has entered its 25th season. The series, created in 1985, comprises four leagues: Western European, Central European, North American (including Canada) and Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, Asia). Each FEI World Cup™ Dressage qualifier consists of a Grand Prix test, which in turn is a qualification for the Freestyle to music competition, where league points are accumulated towards places in the Final. Judged on both technical and artistic merit, the FEI World Cup™ Dressage combines art, sport and partnership between horse and rider at the highest level and consistently proves a winning formula with audiences all over the world.

Technical Note: The FEI World Cup Dressage™ Champion does not earn points in his/her starts but is automatically qualified to the next Final with two FEI World Cup™ Dressage qualifiers completed. Riders not belonging to the Western European League (WEL) or Central European League (CEL) cannot earn points in the WEL unless they have declared to compete in the WEL 2009/2010. These riders may however transfer the results from a maximum of three (3) WEL qualifiers to their own League. Points earned by CEL riders will be transferred to the CEL standings.

THE COMPLETE RULES CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM www.feiworldcup.org

Todd Flettrich and Otto Win Gold Coast Opener FEI Grand Prix de Dressage

Wellington, FL - January 23, 2010 - Dressage trainer Todd Flettrich and his mount Otto, owned by Cherry Knoll Farm, had an exciting victory in Friday afternoon's FEI Grand Prix de Dressage at the Gold Coast Opener Festival in Wellington, FL. Competing in the main arena at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, Flettrich and Otto completed their Grand Prix test with a score of 67.8% for the overall victory, and qualified to compete in Saturday's Grand Prix Special following the win.

Otto, a 13-year-old Danish Warmblood, was purchased by Cherry Knoll Farm in 2009, and Flettrich has worked on forming a good partnership with the horse over the last year. Flettrich was very pleased with his test and thought that Otto was great for his first show back since Devon. "My goal truly was not to make any mistakes and I was a bit nervous myself because I haven't shown since Devon and I didn't have any kind of practice run," Flettrich noted. "I felt a little bit ill prepared, but I really was very happy with him. Otto definitely has more in him than I did today, but he did everything that I asked and I achieved my goal."

Flettrich and Otto will compete in the Grand Prix Special Saturday afternoon and Flettrich explained that he would like to work out the little kinks and be more confident in the test. "I thought that Otto was a bit conservative himself actually in that indoor today. The weather kind of changed and he certainly kept pressing on and performing, but I thought that he wasn't quite as good as he is at home, so that is my goal for tomorrow," Flettrich stated.

"The Special is a very nice test for him. The test is difficult. It's a longer, busier test with many more transitions and lots of forward and back and piaffe transitions, but Otto's talent is definitely his piaffe and passage, so I feel very confident going into tomorrow's competition. Otto is a great horse, I love him, and I am grateful to have him," Flettrich concluded with a smile.

Todd Flettrich is based in Wellington, FL, has earned his USDF Silver and Gold Medals, and is a graduate of the USDF 'L' Judge Program. Flettrich competed at the North American Young Riders Championships (NAYRC) four times and won the Individual Gold Medal and Team Silver in 1991. Flettrich served as Region 1 Coach and Chef d'Equipe at NAYRC from 1988 through 1994. His student Catherine Malone won the Individual Gold in 2005. Flettrich's current mounts are owned by Cherry Knoll Farm. For more information, call Todd Flettrich at 484-459-2749

Highlife Farms To Sponsor Grand Prix Conformation Jumper Award During Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL (January 22, 2010) – Highlife Farms, home to world-class sport horses and one of the country’s most prominent breeding farms, will be sponsoring a Grand Prix Conformation Jumper Award during the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. The world-class show circuit, held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, attracts top horses, riders and trainers from around the world.

“Kenny and I are thrilled to be sponsoring the Conformation Jumper award at WEF. It has long been considered one of the most prestigious shows in the country and we are pleased to be part of it,” said Joan Sims, who, along with her husband, Kenny, owns the Orlando based Highlife Farms.

Highlife Farms will present the Conformation Jumper award during six of WEF’s shows. The Winter Equestrian Festival runs through April 4 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, and features 5.5 million in total prize money. The show draws top competitors from all around the world and features a $500,000 FTI Final Grand Prix, Battle of the Sexes, $50,000 Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA Hunter Derby, $25,000 Young Riders Grand Prix, USEF WEG Trials, AHJF/WCHR Hunter Spectacular and CN Nations Cup.

Highlife Farms is home to many world-class show horses, including the Grand Prix jumper Prezioso OLD (Pilox), an Oldenburg approved jumper stallion ridden by Olympian Lauren Hough. “Prezioso S is athletic and has a sound mind. Prezioso’s sire is Pilox, who stands at our farm. Pilox’s sire is the well known Westphalian foundation stallion Pilot,” Sims said. “We recently learned the good news that Lauren and Prezioso have been accepted to compete at the 2010 World Equestrian Games.”

Highlife Farms is committed to supporting the equestrian community, and in addition to sponsoring the Grand Prix Conformation Jumper award they are also sponsoring the Highlife Cup at dressage shows in South Florida during the winter show circuit.

For more information on Highlife Farms, visit their website at www.highlifefarms.com. For more information on the Winter Equestrian Festival, visit their website at www.equestriansport.com.

Mimi Tashjian Guides Capital Blue to the Championship in the Camping World Adult Amateur 51 & Older Hunters

Wellington, FL - January 22, 2010 - The second week of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival continued today as more hunter championships were awarded in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Arena.

Mimi Tashjian and Capital Blue continued their two-week winning streak today when they picked up the championship in section A of the Camping World Adult Amateur Hunter 51 & Over division. Tashjian has only competed twice on Capital Blue, owned by Scott Stewart, and has earned the championship both times.

Capital Blue is a 6-year-old gelding that Tashjian's trainers Scott Stewart and Ken Berkley recently imported to America, so this is his first season at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Tashjian and her trainer of 15 years, Scott Stewart, share the ride on Capital Blue, whom Stewart shows in the Pre-Green Hunters as well.

Tashjian, who is in the process of moving to Wellington, currently resides in Greenwich, CT, so she must commute to Florida weekly to compete. Tashjian is very thankful to have the ride on Capital Blue whom she says "has a very great heart, is very uncomplicated, and very comfortable." "He is just a lovely horse, especially for as inexperienced as he is," she continued.

Capital Blue is very kind hearted both in and out of the show ring. "He has a great personality, and he's very sweet. He looks for peppermints the minute he sees you coming," Tashjian smiled.

Today's courses in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Field, set by well-known course designer Phillip DeVita, were demanding for the competitors. The course, which included a bending line going away from the in-gate, "was a little bit of a challenge," acknowledged Tashjian.

The bending line did not faze Tashjian and Capital Blue, who received scores of 85 in both rounds over fences today. The duo won both over fences classes today, as well as a second place over fences yesterday, to claim the championship. The reserve champion was awarded to Glen Senk and Winter's Tale, owned by Fashion Farm. Senk and the flashy grey won the second class over fences yesterday, as well as the under saddle today.

Tashjian will continue to compete as much as possible through the remaining weeks of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and she hopes to keep up her winning streak. "I hope to keep doing as well as I did today, but I'm just going to try my hardest and try to make my horse proud," she commented.

The FTI Winter Equestrian Festival continues tomorrow with final classes for the junior hunter divisions and more.

For full results, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.
WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun. Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Arabian Horse Association Touts Alpine Payment Systems® as its Official Credit Card Processing Company

One hundred year-old Arabian Horse Association (AHA), a 33,000 member breed association and the largest Arabian horse registry in the world, announced today that it is partnering with Vancouver, WA-based Alpine Payment Systems (APS), as AHA’s “Official Credit Card Processing Company.”

The partnership will provide AHA with unparalleled safety and state-of-the-art customer service across all credit card transactions. According to AHA President, Lance Walters, the move will also save AHA tens of thousands of dollars in credit card processing and other associated fees.

“This new alliance is part of a wider plan by AHA to significantly improve all our financial systems,” said Walters. Alpine Payment Systems will give our members and everyone doing business with AHA piece of mind that their credit card transactions with our Association are convenient and as safe and secure as possible,” Walters added.

According to Dan Lawrence, Senior Director of Marketing and Sales for AHA, the partnership will also give AHA clubs, regions and affiliates new access to some of the most competitive credit card processing rates in the industry. “Our affiliation with APS will truly be a significant member benefit, in that so many of AHA members are what would be classified as small business owners. These folks will now have access to fees that are normally only available to larger businesses.”

If you are a member or affiliate of AHA and want to learn more about how APS could save you significant money on all your credit card transactions, make them more convenient for both you and your customers, as well as provide unmatched security, contact Rob Scott, Regional Vice President, APS at 360-798-1157 or robs.alpine@live.com. Visit APS at www.alpinepaymentsystems.com.

Last Is the Best for Marie Hecart and Ryan Star du Rezidal in Spy Coast

Wellington, FL - January 22, 2010 - Last proved to be the best in today's exciting Spy Coast 1.40m Speed Challenge at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Marie Hecart of France rode Ryan Star du Rezidal, owned by Ashland Stables, to a very fast win in today's speed class, posting a time just four-tenths of a second faster than the second place finishers, Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) and Palouchin de Ligny.

This is the second week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and the week two title sponsor is Purina Mills. Competition this week runs through Sunday, January 24. The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 4, 2010, and the circuit will be awarding almost $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Today's course, designed by Steve Stephens of Palmetto, FL, had 11 numbered obstacles, including two jumps on the horseshoe bank and two on the table bank, which was an option to a taller one-stride combination. There were 13 clear rounds out of 42 entries, and the early leaders, Sarah Wayda and Faroukh, watched their time (61.502 seconds) be cut down by Pessoa and Palouchin de Ligny, who sped through the course - using the taller one-stride option at fence 8 - in 55.619 seconds.
Brianne Goutal and What Ever, owned by Cloverleaf Farm, came closest to Pessoa's time when they finished in 57.265 seconds until late in the class when Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Querelle du Champ de Leyde, owned by Sarah Ballou, nicked their time in 55.665 seconds. Goutal finished in fourth place, while Shahinian-Simpson placed third.

The class winner came into the ring as the last entry in the class. Hecart and Ryan Star du Rezidal, a nine-year-old Selle Francais gelding by Quick Star, put the pedal down at the beginning of the course and never let up on the gas. They made a fantastic left hand turn back to the oxer at jump 10 and stopped the timers in 55.237 seconds, just four-tenths of a second faster for the win.

Hecart and Ryan Star du Rezidal have been paired together for a year, and the talented horse was gelded just four months ago. Hecart is a professional rider from France and rides for Olympic gold medalist Eric Lamaze of Canada and Ashland Stables.

She said of her mount, "He's a really, really fast horse and really competitive. I show him in the 1.40m and small grand prix (classes). He'll probably keep doing these classes, maybe the 1.45m as well. Ashley Fleischhacker might ride him too. He's a really sweet horse in the barn."

Hecart thought today's track was a "really galloping course." She pointed out, "I watched maybe one horse go before I went because I was over in the Seven and Eight Year Old class. I knew that Rodrigo was really fast. I just said, 'Ok, we'll go in the ring and go, and we'll see.' I think using the bank is good too."

This was Hecart's first win in the Spy Coast 1.40m Speed Challenge. She said, "It's always good to win, especially here, because it's hard. The competition is hard; there are good riders and good horses. I'm pretty happy today!"

Tomorrow's competition will be the highlight class of the week, the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix CSI 2*, which will run under the lights in the International Arena at 7 p.m. Sunday's competition highlight is the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic at 1 p.m.

For full results and more information, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.
Final Results: $6,000 Spy Coast 1.40m Speed Challenge
1. RYAN STAR DU REZIDAL, MARIE HECART, ASHLAND STABLES: 0/55.237
2. PALOUCHIN DE LIGNY, RODRIGO PESSOA, PESSOA STABLES LLC: 0/55.619
3. QUERELLE DU CHAMP DE LEYDE, NICOLE SHAHINIAN-SIMPSON, SARAH BALLOU: 0/55.665
4. WHAT EVER, BRIANNE GOUTAL, CLOVERLEAF FARM: 0/57.265
5. CAROLLA Z, YANN CANDELE, LIZ CURRIE: 0/57.783
6. COCU, MARIO DESLAURIERS, JANE CLARK: 0/59.062
7. CALMAR 3, MARILYN LITTLE-MEREDITH, MACKENZIE SMITH: 0/60.101
8. FAROUKH, SARAH WAYDA, SARAH WAYDA: 0/61.502
9. VERDETT, MCLAIN WARD, MCLAIN WARD: 0/65.348
10. INDY STAR II, KELSEY RAE CALABRO, JOSEPH DI MENNA: 0/65.493
11. TALOUBET, PAULO SANTANA, JENNIFER SANTANA: 0/65.722
12. QUIBBLE N, PAIGE JOHNSON, SALAMANDER FARM: 0/66.633

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.
Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will Jumpin’ Jive with the Lexington Philharmonic during the 2010 Alltech Fortnight Festival

[Lexington, KY] – In its first announcement of programming during the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™, the Alltech Fortnight Festival is already billing itself as a 16-day swingin’ celebration. On Thursday, September 30th at 8 p.m., Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will take the stage with the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra at the Singletary Center in Lexington, Ky.

A Tribute to Cab Calloway will feature some of the greatest hits of the swing era – “Minnie the Moocher,” “Tarzan of Harlem,” and “Calloway Boogie.” Tickets will go on sale on August 2nd.

A nine-piece contemporary swing band, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy gained mainstream popularity when “Go Daddy-O” was used in the movie, “Swingers.”Their first major record with Capitol Records sold three million copies, and their most notable singles include “Go Daddy-O,” “You & Me & the Bottle Makes 3 Tonight,” and “Mr. Pinstripe Suit.” Previous entertainment engagements include the 1999 Super Bowl Halftime Show, the 2006 Capitol One Bowl, and the Espy Awards. Always sporting their zoot suits, they perform more than 100 concerts around the world each year.

Tickets to this special event range from $30 - $75 and will be available for purchase beginning August 2nd by calling (888) 494-4226 or (859) 233-4226 or visiting www.lexphil.org.

The Alltech Fortnight Festival, which began in 2008, presents entertainment throughout the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky. It was created by Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech, as a means of building excitement for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™ while investing in the development of the arts in local communities. The 2010 Alltech Fortnight Festival will run concurrently with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ from September 25th - October 10th. For more information, please visit www.AlltechFortnightFestival.com.

Little Smiles' 2010 "Star's Ball" Fast Facts

Wellington, FL - January 22, 2010 -

EVENT: The Little Smiles' 2010 "Stars Ball"

WHAT: An annual black-tie gala modeled after the Oscars where the community's true heroes, children facing cancer or other life altering conditions, replace the actors. For one night they have the opportunity to escape their daily battle and enter the glamorous world of Hollywood. This event offers the children the opportunity to walk the red carpet complete with photographers, enjoy a delicious catered dinner, and participate in a wonderful awards presentation.

WHERE: The Harriet Hill Theater in City Place
700 So. Rosemary Avenue
West Palm Beach, FL 33401

WHEN: Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 6:00 p.m.

PRESENTING SPONSORS: Palms West Hospital

CHAIRS: Bland and Erika Eng with Co-Chairs Dr. Marante and Maggie Zeller

BENEFICIARY: Little Smiles, a 501c3 charitable organization that strives to fulfill the needs of children in local hospitals, hospices, and shelters. Donations from Little Smiles give children items such as toys, games, videos, computers, and experiences which include, outings, special events, limousine transportation, concert and sporting event tickets, specialty dinners, celebrity meet and greets, and more.

TICKETS/TABLES/SPONSORSHIP: Tickets and sponsorships are still available but going fast. To purchase yours now please visit www.littlesmiles.org/

Debbie McDonald to Lead USEF Developing Dressage Program

Lexington, KY – Olympic superstar, Debbie McDonald, has taken on the role of USEF Developing Dressage Coach for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). McDonald’s name is synonymous with the US Dressage program for the last decade having represented the US across the globe, winning the 2005 FEI World Cup Final and leading the US to Team Bronze at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and the 2006 World Equestrian Games with her legendary mare Brentina.

The USEF Developing Dressage program has been restructured and the future International High Performance athletes will benefit from McDonald’s experience and expertise through a series of clinics across the US as they prepare themselves and their horses for the future.

“The Developing Program is of vital importance to the future of our sport,” said USEF Technical Advisor Anne Gribbons. “It is meant to establish the basis for the up and coming riders and horses in this country. We are lucky to be in the situation today when we are able to use our own ‘human resources’ to educate our team hopefuls.”

The Developing Program is designed to identify and cultivate future US Dressage stars.

“Under the capable direction of Debbie McDonald, we will create a nationwide program devoted to guiding our riders and their mounts from young horse classes and the small tour to Grand Prix,” said Gribbons.

McDonald, who was named the USEF Developmental Coach of the Year for 2008 for her efforts training and teaching horses and riders, has an exemplary reputation as a coach and a trainer.

“I am very excited to help the development of our sport,” said McDonald. “This is a very good time for the US, having the support of the USEF to start this program up again is exciting. I am honored to be a part of it!”

The dates and locations for the Developing Rider clinics are scheduled as follows (please note that they may be subject to change):

February 6-7, 2010 California
March 27-28, 2010 Florida
June 5-6, 2010 California
June 12-13, 2010 New Jersey
July 10-11, 2010 New Jersey

Please note that participation in these clinics is by invitation only and riders will be invited at the direction of the USEF High Performance Dressage Committee

FEI ANNOUNCES FIVE-YEAR GLOBAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME FOR EVENTING OFFICIALS

The FEI announced details of a five-year Global Education Programme for Eventing Officials today. The CHF 1 million project, which will support the regular FEI Educational and Certification system for Eventing Officials at all levels, is funded by the FEI.

The mission of the Education Programme is to improve and align safety standards and support of Eventing Officials in their work worldwide. The Programme will expand and raise the quality and experience of Eventing Officials through education and training, with a specific focus on developing and less experienced countries.

The Programme also aims to promote the sport of Eventing, create new sport opportunities and improve cooperation and communication between the main participants in the sport, including National Federations, Organising Committees, Officials and Athletes.

As part of Eventing’s strategic plan of Discipline Development through Education in the Next Decade, the Programme is designed to make a significant contribution to the education of officials world-wide within the first five-year period. The project was run as a pilot scheme in 2009 but is now fully operational and will run through to the end of 2013. At the end of the five-year term, education of Eventing Officials will continue under the FEI’s regular programmes.

The Global Education Programme is based on five pillars:

1. Shadow Officiating (Eventing Judges & Technical Delegates)

2. Exchange of Eventing Officials (Eventing Judges & Technical Delegates)

3. Mentoring Scheme (Eventing Judges & Technical Delegates)

4. An annual 4-5 day workshop specifically for Course Designers, run in conjunction with a multi-level international competition

5. Selected participants travel abroad to officiate at International Events as part of the FEI Clean Sport Campaign’s education programme for Stewards. Preference may be given to fixtures hosting several equestrian disciplines, including Jumping and Dressage, to allow participants to acquire broader officiating experience. Representatives from 13 National Federations (NFs) – Belarus, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Britain, Hungary, Ireland, Mexico, Netherlands, Sweden, Thailand and USA – participated in the 2009 pilot programme. A total of 78 applications from 22 NFs have been received for the 2010 scheme, with the first candidates due to officiate at the Red Hills Horse Trials, Tallahassee, USA, in March.

Giuseppe della Chiesa, Chairman of the Eventing Committee, commented: “This is an exciting time for Eventing. We launched the Eventing Risk Management Strategy and Action Plan at a very successful meeting of National Safety Officers in Sweden last weekend, and now we are announcing the Global Education Programme for Eventing Officials. The sport is on an upward curve in terms of numbers competing and our forecast for 2010 shows close to 100 new fixtures worldwide. These levels of growth are very encouraging, but risk management and education have to remain our number one priorities.”

FEI Secretary General Alex McLin said: “Education covers not just the athlete, but also welfare, technical organization and the training of the support network, such as judges, officials and course designers. The Global Education Programme for Eventing Officials is a valuable education initiative that will play a major role in expanding and raising the quality and experience of Eventing Officials worldwide.”

In a further educational initiative, the FEI is also co-funding a two-year development programme in Central and South America, following a successful pilot year in 2009. Under the scheme, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) will continue to supply coaches from the USA and Canada to FEI regional Groups IV and V for 2010 and 2011 with the aim of increasing participation in regional Games in the area. Immediate goals include the 2010 Caribbean Games in Puerto Rico and the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Riders from Barbados, Bermuda, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Trinidad have already benefited from training with some of the top riders from the US and Canada. Other countries, including FEI regional Group VI, have expressed interest in the programme. The venture is funded jointly by the FEI and Las Vegas Events, which matched the FEI’s programme budget as part of its bid for the Rolex/FEI World Cup Final for Dressage and Show Jumping.

Horse TV's "CAI Live Oak CDE 2009" Honored with Daniel P. Lenehan Trophy for Overall Media Excellence

By Sarah Lane

Lexington, KY – The high-impact, high-energy discipline of driving doesn’t easily lend itself to videography. It all comes down to logistics—especially when it involves covering miles of varied terrain during the Marathon phase, filled with obstacles that not only prove challenging for horse and driver, but for camera crews seeking the best vantage point from which to capture the excitement.

It can, however, be done. Executive producer Bernard Uechtritz, producer Jon May and the crew at Horse TV proved that in 2009. Determined to bring the exciting sport to the masses, they invested a fully-vetted crew, nine video cameras and hours upon hours of pre- and post-production work, into what would become the “CAI Live Oak CDE 2009.”

Their efforts won them the 2009 USEF media award, the Daniel P. Lenehan Trophy for Overall Media Excellence, presented during the President’s luncheon of the 2010 USEF Annual Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, January 16.

“This year’s recipient used a particularly successful and well-rounded approach to presenting the sport of driving to both a familiar audience and prospective fans,” said USEF President David O’Connor. “The producer incorporated comprehensive and professional commentary, making the production instructional as well as entertaining. The overall presentation was nothing short of spectacular.”

The four-hour television special was unprecedented in its visual scope, shooting from elevated hydraulic platforms to enable the viewer to see down into the hazards, all while capturing one hundred percent of the competitors’ performances.

“They really put a lot of heart and soul into it,” Bernard Uechtritz, President of Horse TV, said of his crew. “By far and away, one of the most fun things we did last year was Live Oak. That was really made possible by a team approach, and a good combination of the USEF, Chester Weber and Susan Gilliland, and of course, our great crew at Horse TV. The crew really put in an enormous amount of hours into this production.”

A clip from the awards presentation at the 2010 USEF Annual Meeting can be found at ClubEquestrian.com: http://www.clubequestrian.com/videos/watch/1554.aspx

The full four-hour show and other outtakes on DVD of this event can be found and ordered at www.JustHorseVideos.com

This photo is credit Geoff Oliver Bugbee/USEF Archives and should only be used in relation to this press release. For a hi-res version, please contact Helen Murray at hmurray@usef.org.

The vision of the United States Equestrian Federation® is to provide leadership
for equestrian sport in the United States of America by promoting the pursuit
of excellence from the grassroots to the Olympic Games, based on a
foundation of fair, safe competition and the welfare
of its human and equine athletes.

AHP Message: Awards Contest Rules and Entry Forms GO LIVE!

Dear AHP Members:

The 2010 Annual Awards Contest Entry Forms and Rules are now available online.

http://www.americanhorsepubs.org/programs/awards/

If this link doesn't work, please go to www.americanhorsepubs.org and click on Programs, then Award Contest.

You are now ready to begin preparing your entries from 2009.

Deadline Date for entries is on or before March 3, 2010, so mark your calendars. There are no late entries accepted.

If you have any questions, please contact me at ahorsepubs@aol.com or 386-760-7743.

Phelps Media Group, Inc. Named Media Partner for the Lupus Research Institute's Shady Ladies® "Guys and Dolls” Dinner and Celebrity Sunglass Auction

Wellington, FL - January 22, 2010 - Phelps Media Group, Inc., is pleased to announce that they have been named a media partner for the 2010 Shady Ladies® "Guys and Dolls" Dinner and Celebrity Sunglass Auction on Saturday January 30th to benefit the Lupus Research Institute, the world's leading private supporter of innovative research in lupus.

The "Guys and Dolls" themed evening at the International Arena of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center will feature a cocktails and a silent sunglasses auction (6:30pm) followed by a 7:30 p.m. ringside dinner and live auction.

Decorations for the evening will be provided by David Negri/Sutka Productions and food will be catered by The White Horse Tavern. The event will run ringside during the exciting $50,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes Exhibition,where ateam of the most famous male equestrians will face off against a team of the world's most prominent female equestrians over a series of show jumping events.

Guests will be able to bid on sunglasses donated by Kelly Osbourne, Carrie Ann Inaba, Melissa Joan Hart, Lil' Kim, Khloe Kardashian, Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Karina Smirnoff, Aaron Carter, Kathy Griffin, Tom Berensen, Sharon Lawrence, Cheryl Burke, Derek Hough, Joanne Krupinski, and Samantha Harris.

Phelps Media Group, Inc.'s President and Founder, Mason Phelps, Jr., is excited to be involved as the Shady Ladies' newest media partner. "The Shady Ladies® dinner and auction is a very unique way to raise money for important medical research," Phelps stated. "Lupus is a disease that affects so many and we look forward to the opportunity to come together in the equestrian community and support the search for a cure."

As the world's leading private supporter of innovative research in lupus, the Lupus Research Institute (LRI) champions scientific risk-taking in the hunt for solutions to this complex and dangerous autoimmune disease. The charity watchdog group, the American Institute of Philanthropy, recently ranked the Institute an "A+" for its efficiency and value in supporting and funding novel research, innovation and new ideas.

"We are grateful to the Palm Beach community for rallying in support of innovative lupus research," said LRI Executive Director, Margaret G. Dowd. "Proceeds and contributions from the Shady Ladies® benefit will help to make a difference in the lives of the more than 1.5 million Americans, and millions more worldwide, who suffer from this difficult disease."

The Shady Ladies® dinner and auction is planned each year thanks to honorary chairs Mark Badgley and James Mischka, as well as vice-chairs Toni and Jean Goutal, Chris and Angela Paradysz, Corry Terfloth Walker, and Teri and John Wood. The event is produced by Tudor and Company.

Tickets to the event can be purchase for $250 per person or $175 for a junior ticket (18 and under). For more information please contact Kim Tudor at kim@tudorandcompany.com or 908-512-2828

New Mobile Equine First Aid Station

Emergency first aid is on the way for owners and care providers of larger horse herds. The Large Barn First Aid Station is now available to caring horse owner’s world wide from EquiMedic USA, Inc., the world leader in the design and manufacture of horse and rider first aid kits. This kit is designed for the emergency care of from eleven to at least 18 horses and riders or handlers.

Sold as a complete turn-key emergency response mobile kit for tending to the first aid needs of horses and humans, the Large Barn First Aid Station comes in the popular Stanley Works Fat Max tool storage unit. Measuring 29 tall, 21 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and weighing in at 61 pounds loaded, horse owners will find peace of mind in knowing that they will have about any thing on hand for confronting emergency situations with their equine partners. The mobile work station offers 93 different products and 774 total items.

The Large Barn First Aid Station is fully mobile and lockable, allowing owners some security with their investment in medical necessities for owning horses. The Stanley Works box is a three part system, with a pull out / retractable handle, much like that of modern day passenger luggage. With the lift of a single latch the user easily glides the top two sections backwards on its wheels to gain full open access to the lower two storage compartments.

The upper section of this unit opens separately with two latches similar to a traditional tool or tackle box. A lift out tray can be set on top of the inside of the lid exposing a deep storage area for smaller equipment, wound care, bandaging and emergency management products.
The mid section of this versatile box features customizable divided sections ideal for the protection and ease of accessing more of the smaller first aid products. The bottom section is a large, deep box that allows for great organization and protection of the larger, bottles, jars, dressings, bandagings, equipment and wound care management items.

This new equine first aid kit is now available directly from EquiMedic USA, Inc., on their web site: www.equimedic.com, or from the many large national distributors who also retail the EquiMedic USA emergency care kits.

The Large Barn First Aid Station joins its smaller but established siblings, the Medium Barn Kit, rated to treat from four to ten horses and riders, and the Small Barn Kit, rated to treat from one to three horses and riders.

Other kits designed by EquiMedic USA, Inc., and owned by horse owners world wide, include the Economy Kit, Horn Bag Trail Riding Kit, Small and Large Trailering Kits, and the Professional Kit, another mobile wheeled caddy kit designed for professional horse facilities and venues. This kit offers more human products in addition to the numerous horse products for facilities that mix large numbers of humans and horses.

Check out this new equine first aid kit designed for large barns, at the EquiMedic web site or look for it in the retail centers, catalogs, or web sites of your favorite provider of fine equine goods and services. An introductory 15% discount promotion will run through the end of May on this new kit, as well as the Medium Barn Kit and the Large Trailering Kit

GGT-Footing™ is Proud to Have the Following Line-Up of 2010 Distributors Representing Our German Geo-Textile Footing Additive.

Our installers and consultants have years of high-level experience in the Equestrian Industry from all disciplines.

When you are considering investing in new footing, it pays to do your research.

Our experienced group of professionals all offer expertise in footing knowledge.

Visit the website www.ggt-footing to hyperlink to any company you read about in this press release.

Our experts are available to contribute to editorial request on footing articles.

Atwood Equestrian Surfaces has been manufacturing and installing polymer-coated riding surfaces for over fifteen years. We understand the needs of each discipline. Our clients range from Royalty and Academy Award-winning celebrities, to nationally recognized competitors and private discerning riders. We know the need for carefully engineered surfaces that benefit the horse and rider. Attwood has engineers on staff that analyzes various sand samples and helps create and blend the perfect footing for your individual arena.

Custom Equestrian Footing is a division of Stancills, Inc. which is a family owned and operated sand and gravel mining and manufacturing company since 1934. The second and third generations of the Stancill family now run the company and have a farm in Maryland where they have horses and enjoy all kinds of riding. Custom Equestrian Footing is a special branch of the company created to respond to the growing demand for quality riding surfaces. Makes high performance riding surfaces for all equestrian disciplines. The CEF team has a combined background in equestrian sports, soil science and construction, creating the perfect knowledge base to make unique riding surfaces for unique clients. With footings that range from standard sand-only mixtures to more complex surfaces that include synthetic components, CEF has a footing to fit every performance need.

Efficient Arena Inc. Efficient Arena concentrates its resources on one job at a time. Owner does it all providing you the highest quality of personalized service. From the small personal dream farm to the large training facility, our extensive knowledge of drainage, footings, arena bases and maintenance issues can help to determine the riding surface that is right for you. Correct installation will ensure a long lasting, all weather riding surface. A properly constructed arena will help ensure safety and soundness for both rider and horse. -Expert evaluation of your riding and maintenance needs. Highly Mobile, State-of-the-Art Equipment. The experience of over 270 arenas! “Mark is the expert in his field.”Amy Tryon, Eventer Olympic Bronze Medal Team Member World Equestrian Games, Gold Medal Team

E=MC² Equestrian Arenas Inc /Brian P. McNeil, owner. Brian is an equestrian from the ground up. He is married to Judy Westlake, an accomplished Dressage trainer and rider involved in training horses from training level to the FEI levels. A horse family with a true love of the horse as the primary purpose for being in the business. Brian’s expertise in arena construction is utilized throughout the US, America, Europe, Saudi Arabia and more! Brian travels around the world as a consultant for all equestrian footing including Race Tracks, Olympic Stadiums, Derby fields, College and private owners.

Equine Systems -Michelle Bartlett while at university studying Business Administration established Equine Systems. Michelle clearly remembers the first time she sat on a horse as a child, it was a defining moment in her life, leading to an enthusiastic competitive career, and to this day helps to inspire the continued success of Equine Systems. As CEO, Michelle brings her vast understanding of business combined with her hands on experience in the plastics industry to this leading role.

Michelle’s insistence that all products be tested in competitive environments has served the company well as has her intimate knowledge of what is required when purchasing equine products. Every product developed and sold can be found being used every day at the head office of Equine Systems, which is located 40 minutes from downtown Toronto. The head office of Equine Systems offers a unique purpose built facility as it is situated on a large breeding and training operation specializing in KWPN (Dutch Warmbood) horses for both Dressage and Jumping. We also have manufacturing plants in the USA and Canada. Michelle is passionate about her company as well as horses.

The staff of Equine Systems is dedicated horse professionals who understand the industry and our client’s expectations. Our selection is wide and varied, yet you can expect the personalized and knowledgeable customer service of a family business.

Footing First -Karen Leeming was the Canadian Team Manager for the 2000 Olympics (Sydney, Australia) and the 2002 World Equestrian Games (Jerez, Spain). She also attended the 2004 Olympics (Athens, Greece). Karen has worked with top hunter and show jumping stables in North America and Europe; she brings her technical knowledge of equitation and broader knowledge of farm management to the TravelRight team. Lawton Adams, president of Lawton Adams Construction Corp., has years of hands-on experience in the design and construction of riding rings, and a working knowledge of various footing materials. His company Lawton Adams Construction Corp. (www.LawtonAdams.com) has been in the business of site work and aggregates for over 65 years.

Improvements Plus, Inc. Rick's business for well over a decade has been in construction and renovation of riding arena footings and equine facilities. Rick and his wife, Kate have been raising and selling sound, sane, athletic and talented horses for over twenty years, using Appendix Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred mares selected for mind, conformation and pedigree to produce youngsters suited to go on as hunters, jumpers, event and dressage horses - or anything else their owners care to do with them. Currently representing high quality Irish Sport Horses that are winning on the line.

Jumps West is the industry's first and only major national retailer that has bi-coastal production and provides a complete range of products, including wood, PVC, polyethylene, metal, and leading edge synthetics. We also offer specialized training materials from industry experts. Our comprehensive selection of products from both North America and Europe, and our value pricing, makes us uniquely qualified to supply you and assist you with your purchase decisions. Superior Customer service is special priority. GGT-Footing can be ordered easily on-line. Jumps West has been to official supplier to many world Class Olympic level events!

Leone Equestrians Inc-Rudy Leone -30 years of success-When Rudy moved from Switzerland to Northern California, his goal was to establish one of the top show barns on the west coast. His ability to teach, and his passion for the horse quickly built his reputation. Being able to produce young horses for their owners and have them win at all levels, created a demand for his knowledge. Many each year come to Rudy for help in finding the perfect horse. Since 1980, he has been traveling to Europe helping clients find horses through his European contacts. Since he has stepped out of the show ring, he has helped many riders successfully compete at the highest levels. His ability to match horses and riders has allowed him to help follow one of his passions by starting a consignment business.

Odyssey Performance -In 1987, while still in high school, we were looking for a way to keep busy and employ some friends. These were the first days of Odyssey Performance. Today, Odyssey Performance has developed into a World Class company, employing 35 people in the Rockwood area but servicing the world market. We now design, manufacture and assemble in our 60,000 sq ft building employing the latest technology. Never changing our goal of being the best in the business that we are in, we have continued to develop leading edge products for the equine industry. We try to make horse people’s lives easier by developing products that people need and use.

Premier Equestrian,- LLC is North America's leading provider of Dressage Arenas, Horse Jumps, ProStride Arena Footing, and other related equipment for Equestrian Sporting events and training. Heidi Zorn and Mark Neihart founded Premier Equestrian in 2000 with a passion for quality in both products and customer service. Equestrian, LLC is a privately held Utah based company. GGT-Footing ™can be ordered on-line. Premier Equestrian, LLC will provide equipment for the dressage and driving competition venues as an Official Vendor of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Read Customs Soils- Read Custom Soils operates as an independent division of Will Sand / Today Read Custom Soils can meet nearly any specialty soil specification. We have the knowledge, experience and expertise needed to blend soil components to achieve the desired design characteristics. We are licensed to manufacture the proprietary CU Structural Soil™. Using lightweight aggregate delivered by rail, we have developed a variety of lightweight soil blends that can be found on landmark projects throughout New England. We are the Massachusetts distributor of Zeo Pro™ advanced soil amendments. GGT-Footing ™ is used as part of their equestrian custom blend.

Stabilizer Solutions Inc- Our family company has been secretly 'Advancing the Evolution of Soil' for over 26 years. Its dirty work, but somebody has to do it. With your vision and our technology, we can help natural soil evolve. Find out how a gravel trail can remain accessible to thousands of people in the pouring rain. Learn how soil can protect natural turf against 300 pounds of pure lineman. Uncover innovative fields that you can actually play on anytime. Discover how soil and technology makes all of this possible in the application pages. Need to know how two brothers started an international soil conspiracy? The depth of knowledge and products that Stabilizer Solutions offer for Equestrian turf is endless.

Stadium Sport Horses LLC. - Rick Howell and his business enjoy participating in the hunter jumper ring from small ponies to Grand Prix WEG contenders. Rick has a partnership with Ashland Farms involving grand prix horse Lord Spezi competing currently with Argentina's Jorge Zamudio. Look for this pair as potential 2010 WEG candidates! Rick Howell and Stadium Sport Horses LLC were instrumental in negotiations that secured GGT-Footing ™ as the Official Footing of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival.

Wordley Martin Equestrian, LLC- Wordley Martin Equestrian was founded by two international showjumpers who live and breathe international competition. They understand the importance of your connection with your horses as you strive to exceed your goals. Sharn Wordley has represented New Zealand in numerous Nation’s Cups and the 2008 Olympics. He has competed in 22 countries and was the young rider champion in New Zealand earlier in his career. Living in Europe, Wordley successfully competed in some of the world’s most prestigious shows, including CSIO5* Rome, CSIO5* Lummen, CSIO 5* Hickstead and others. From 2005-2007, Wordley competed throughout the U.S.A. and won 35 Grand Prix. In addition to his victories as a rider, Wordley has coached riders who have represented their countries in the Olympics, World Cup Finals, World Championships and the Pan American Games. Craig Martin worked and trained in Europe for more than a decade with some of the best in the business, including Tim Stockdale, Barry Taylor and William Funnel. He has brought horses up the levels from youngsters to the Grand Prix ring. He has competed on four continents at some of the world’s best shows and was long-listed for the Athens Olympics. In 2003, Martin moved to the U.S.A. and has competed and coached at most major North American competitions, such as the Winter Equestrian Festival and Spruce Meadows.


GGT –Footing™
GGT-Footing™ Dressage and Jumping is a custom mix of GGT-Footing Geo with GGT-Footing Fiber. Benefits: Reduced Dust, High Water Retention, Optimal Impact Resistance, Higher slide strength and additional stability, Extended Lifetime of your Arena Surface (up to 10 years)

Contact:
Cynthia Brewster-Keating
United States Representative
Polysols Inc. GGT –Footing ™
sales.east@polysols.com
864-804-0011
Official Footing of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

FEI TRIBUNAL DISMISSES BEF’S DEMAND TO REVERSE GB TEAM RELEGATION

The FEI Tribunal has announced its decision in the case of the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) challenge to the FEI Bureau resolution relegating the British team from the FEI Nations Cup™. The Tribunal has decided not to intervene in the Bureau’s decision of 17 September 2009 relegating the Great Britain, Belgium, and Italian teams and has therefore declined the BEF’s challenge. As a consequence, those three teams remain relegated to the FEI Nations Cup™ Promotional League for the 2010 season.

The full text of the decision is available here.

BEF has 30 days to appeal this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Shane Sweetnam and Take Note Claim the Championship in the Western Hay and Suncoast Shavings Second Year Green Working Hunter

Wellington, FL - January 21, 2010 - Sunny skies illuminated the E.R. Mische Hunter Arena this afternoon as the professional hunters finished their second day of showing during week two of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, which runs for 12 weeks through April 4.

Emerging victorious today to earn the championship in the Western Hay and Suncoast Shavings Second Year Green Working Hunters were Shane Sweetnam and Take Note, owned by Lindsey Tomeu. Take Note received a second place over fences yesterday, won the under saddle, and placed third and seventh over fences today to clinch the championship. The reserve champion award went to Louise Serio and Kid Rock, owned by Paige Cole.Sweetnam originally hails from Ireland, but now bases out of Wellington, FL, and Lexington, KY, where he rides for Spy Coast Farm and Sweet Oak Farm. Sweetnam describes Take Note, an 8-year-old Swedish Warmblood, as "very talented and beautiful to ride." "The jump is fantastic, he's never spooky, and he's very rideable," Sweetnam commented on his mount.

Sweetnam has not shown Take Note since the pair won the Hunter Derby during the Holiday and Horses Horse Show in 2009, but they picked up right where they left off with their win today. After Sweetnam's win in the E.R. Mische Hunter Arena, he ran directly to the International Arena where he placed 4th in the $30,000 WEF Challenge on Spy Coast Farm LLC's Zamiro 16.

While Sweetnam spends most of his time in the jumper ring, he takes pleasure in riding the hunters as well. When asked how he feels about competing in the hunter divisions in comparison to the jumpers, Sweetnam compared, "I actually have two very good hunters at the moment. I enjoy riding a good one, and I probably always will." Sweetnam particularly enjoys doing the handy hunter classes with Take Note, acknowledging, "He can turn on a dime, and whatever you want him to do, he'll do."
Sweetnam will compete for the entire duration of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and is aiming towards qualifying for the AHJF/WCHR Hunter Spectacular for the second year in a row. The AHJF/WCHR Spectacular week takes place during week six of the 12-week circuit.

Other top finishers in today's Western Hay and Suncoast Shavings Second Year Green Working Hunter included Pony Lane Farm's Bella Blue and Maggie Jayne, who earned a high score of 86 in the first over fences class. The blue ribbon in the second over fences class went to Tammy Provost, scoring an 87 on her mount Sugar Boy, owned by Wendy Hofmeister.

For full results, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.
The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun. Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

$30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round Two Victory Goes to Margie Engle and Tosca 290 at 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival

Wellington, FL - January 21, 2010 - Margie Engle (USA) of Wellington, FL, returned to the winner's circle at the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) with Tosca 290, owned by Hidden Creek Farm, in the $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round Two.
This is the second week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and the week two title sponsor is Purina Mills. Competition this week runs through Sunday, January 24. The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of competition that conclude on April 4, 2010, and the circuit will be awarding almost $6 million in prize money through the circuit.

Steve Stephens of Palmetto, FL, designed today's grand prix course. Margie Engle said of the course, "I thought it was a very good course for the amount of horses he had. There were a lot of technical questions and options. The course started off very square to start; the first two jumps were big enough oxers this early in the year."

There were 59 entries in the class and 10 found the clear round path to the jump-off. Ljubov Kochetova (RUS) and Levantino L just missed joining this group when they had one time fault in 86.220 seconds. However, on her first horse Aslan, Kochetova returned first in the jump-off and set the time to beat in 43.98 seconds with no faults. That would hold up for third place in the class.

Following her in the jump-off was last week's WEF Challenge Cup winner Georgina Bloomberg, this time riding Mila, owned by Gotham Enterprizes. They had an unfortunate eight faults in 46.20 seconds for 10th place.

Beezie Madden and Abigail Wexner's Danny Boy had a quick jump-off round going until they pulled a rail at the final fence for four faults. Their time of 44.00 seconds left them in eighth place. Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and Zamiro 16, owned by Spy Coast Farm LLC, were the next to put in a double clear round. Their slower time of 47.13 seconds gave them fourth place in the class.

Next up was Engle, who was very speedy in the opening line of the jump-off. The quick little mare Tosca 290, a 10-year-old KWPN by Numero Uno, galloped around the course and finished clear in a time of 47.13 seconds to move to the lead. Engle had to watch five other horses finish the jump-off before she would lead the victory gallop.

"You had to have a very careful horse for the jump-off. She's a naturally fast horse on her own. But you never know until it's over," Engle conceded. "I felt like I went fast enough to put pressure on, but there were a lot of fast people behind me. No matter how you go, there are plenty of good riders here."

Engle was very fast through the course, but did the six strides down the final line. "If I started thinking about it too early, I was going to have the vertical down coming in, so I figured I'd just put a little bend in it," Engle explained. "I thought I'd go fast everywhere else and be safe down the last line."

Marilyn Little Meredith and Blue Curacao, owned by Paul and Mary Loeber, had the fastest time of the day with 39.87 seconds, but a rail and four faults relegated them to fifth place. Peter Charles and Murka's Rubert R, owned by Olga White, had the same four-fault fate in 42.26 seconds for ninth place, while Lauren Hough, speedy in 41.54 seconds with Laura Mateo's Casadora, finished sixth after they had a rail as well.

Michael Morrissey and Crelido added their name to the four-faulter list in a time of 42.24 seconds for seventh place. The last to go was the very dangerous Leslie Howard on Lennox Lewis 2, second place finishers in last week's speed derby. Howard had a very fast pace throughout the course, but finished just off the winning pace in 41.62 seconds to place second.

Engle was very happy with Tosca 290, who has been showing at the grand prix level for a year. They won the opening round of the WEF Challenge Cup series at last year's FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, and Tosca has been a proven winner this past year.

Engle recalled, "We had her in the Young Horse classes since she was six, coming seven (years old). No matter what we move her up to, she's just a tryer. Whatever level you do, she always goes in, is careful, tries to miss the jumps, and is fast. She's got everything going for her, and she's got a big, big heart. She just keeps moving up and does it very easily."

This was the first class of the year for Tosca, Engle said. "I didn't even do a warm-up (class). She's gotten so consistent," she went on to say. "She's a funny mare; we went in the ring and she hadn't seen the wall and was spooking at that, but as soon as you head her to the jumps, she's all business. She's just really, really game."
Earlier in the day, Pablo Barrios (VEN) scored yet another win early in the circuit. This time it came in the $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m Time First Jump-off. He and G&C Blanchee, owned by Gustavo and Carolina Mirabal, were the fastest double clear in 36.130 seconds for the win. Anglea Covert-Lawrence (CAN) and Utan, owned by Eastwood Equine Inc., were also double clear for second place in 38.088 seconds. Fellow Canadian Ainsley Vince and Frieda, owned by the KMA Group, were third in 38.217 seconds with no faults.

Tomorrow's highlight jumper class is the $6,000 Spy Coast 1.40m Speed Challenge, while the $50,000 Purina Mills Grand Prix CSI 2* will be on Saturday, January 23, at 7 p.m. and the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic is on Sunday, January 24, at 1 p.m.
For full results and more information, please visit www.shownet.biz or www.equestriansport.com.

Final Results: $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round Two
1. TOSCA 290: 10yo KWPN Mare by Numero Uno xx Zortin
MARGIE ENGLE (USA), HIDDEN CREEK FARM: 0/0/41.34
2. LENNOX LEWIS: 11yo Oldenburg Gelding by Laureatus xx Weizenkorn
LESLIE HOWARD (USA), LESLIE HOWARD: 0/0/41.62
3. ASLAN: 10yo DWB Gelding by Aston xx Blue Hors Agent
LJUBOV KOCHETOVA (RUS), LJUBOV KOCHETOVA: 0/0/43.980
4. ZAMIRO 16: 10yo Sachsen-Anhalterin Gelding by Zenturio xx Landstreicher
SHANE SWEETNAM (IRL), SPY COAST FARM: 0/0/47.13
5. BLUE CURACAO: 9yo BWP Mare by Mr. Blue xx Dark D Amour
MARILYN LITTLE-MEREDITH (USA), PAUL & MARY LOEBER: 0/4/39.87
6. CASADORA: 14yo KWPN Mare by Indoctro xx Grannus
LAUREN HOUGH (USA), LAURA MATEO: 0/4/41.54
7. CRELIDO: 14yo HOLST Gelding by Calido I xx Caretino
MICHAEL MORRISSEY (USA), MICHAEL MORRISSEY: 0/4/42.24
8. DANNY BOY: 10yo BWP Gelding by Clinton xx Alexis Z
BEEZIE MADDEN (USA), ABIGAIL WEXNER: 0/4/44.00
9. MURKA'S RUBERT R: 12yo KWPN Gelding by Mermus R xx Joost
PETER CHARLES (GBR), OLGA WHITE: 0/4/42.26
10. MILA: 16yo KWPN Mare by Indorado xx Renville
GEORGINA BLOOMBERG (USA), GOTHAM ENTERPRIZES: 0/8/46.20
11. LEVANTINO L: 10yo OLBG Gelding by Levanto Holst xx Grannus
LJUBOV KOCHETOVA (RUS), LJUBOV KOCHETOVA: 1/86.220
12. HOLIDAY: 11yo HOLST Mare by Corrado I xx Raimondo
SARAH SEGAL (USA), ROBERT SEGAL: 4/76.74

The 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 13 through April 4. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are "AA" rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $5.5 million in prize money will be awarded.

WEF is proud to be supported by their title sponsor, FTI Consulting, Inc. FTI Consulting, Inc. exists to help companies and their stakeholders protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex economic, legal and regulatory environment. FTI is the trusted advisor entrenched in many of the game-changing events that make headlines, move markets and create business history. For more information, please visit www.fticonsulting.com.

During the 12 weeks of WEF, "Saturday Night Lights" headlines the entertainment each Saturday night where spectators not only enjoy the Grand Prix class, but a street carnival, live music, and numerous dining options with box seats, sports bars, and the famed Tiki Hut for front row fun.

Please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-5867 for more information.

AHP Bulletin Board: Ulcer Webinar for Technicians, Staff on Feb. 7 and 21

The American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians (AAEVT) is offering two FREE webinars on equine gastric ulcers for technicians and staff. The webinar will provide continuing education credits. A repeat of the webinar will be held on Feb. 21.

Date: Sunday, Feb. 7 and repeated Sunday, Feb. 21

Time: 9 to 10 p.m. Eastern

Cost: FREE

Continuing Education Credits: 1 to 2 hours

Register for the Feb. 7 webinar at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/228158451

Register for the Feb. 21 webinar at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/181212595

For more information, please contact:
Michele Egan
Merial
Phone: (678) 638-3524
michele.egan@merial.com

AHP Newsgroup: Equine Affaire: The Nation's Best Value for Horse Lovers

London, OH (January 21, 2010) – It’s not often that world champion riders, United States Equestrian Team members, and other renowned trainers, coaches, and competitors from all walks of horse life gather in one location to share their secrets. Even less often comes the chance to soak up all their equestrian experience and savvy for about what you’d spend on a movie ticket and a bucket of popcorn.

Just $14 gets you an all-access daily ticket to the 2010 edition of our country’s most enduring and successful all-breed, all-discipline equine expo, Equine Affaire, which returns to the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Thursday–Sunday, April 8–11. Admission for kids age 7–10 is just $8, and those 6 and under get in for free.

Arrive early—doors open at 9:00 am—because you’re going to want to plan your visit around Equine Affaire’s phenomenal program of 230-plus educational sessions. With clinics and seminars offered simultaneously in eight different venues at the event and a power-packed lineup of clinicians, you’re likely to have some tough decisions to make about how and where you’ll want to spend your time. Chris Cox, John Lyons, Craig Cameron, Tommy Garland, Richard Winters, Caroline Rider, Scot Hansen, and Stacy Westfall will all be on hand to share their straightforward and humane training methods, techniques for overcoming horse-related challenges, and tips for forging a better relationship with your horse. These accomplished trainers, competitors, and TV personalities are among the most sought-after instructors in the nation, and their individual clinics and symposia often command top dollars. But you can spend up to four days learning from these world-class trainers for the cost of Equine Affaire’s modest general admission!

The 2010 Equine Affaire will provide a great introduction to horses for new horse enthusiasts and a place for seasoned riders and horse owners to hone their skills and explore new disciplines and training philosophies. Clinics on western disciplines will be presented by Stacy Westfall (reining), Sharon Camarillo (barrel racing), Duane Piper and Tommy Garland (western pleasure for stock and gaited breeds), Richard Winters (reined cow horse), and Aaron Ralston (ranch and trail). The English disciplines will be well-represented by Linda Allen (hunters and jumpers), Jeremy Steinberg and Reese Koffler-Stanfield (dressage), Sterling Graburn (driving), Pamela Graham (jumping), Tommy Garland (hunter pleasure for gaited breeds), and Heidi Piper (hunter under saddle). Jennifer Bauer will teach you how to achieve the right gait with your easy-gaited horse, Scott Seymour will share his expertise on the training of draft breeds, Ginger Ryals will conduct clinics on gymkhana exercises and drill team development, the Northern Ohio Outlaws will demonstrate why they love the sport of cowboy mounted shooting, and renowned trick horse trainer, David Donnert, will show you how to teach your horse tricks. You’ll also be treated to a non-stop schedule of seminars and demos covering the gamut of horse training, horse management, and equestrian topic relevant to amateurs and professionals alike!

A New Trail Riding Pavilion Awaits
With retail and educational exhibits and a comprehensive program of demos on topics relating to trail riding and trail use, Equine Affaire’s new Trail Riding Pavilion in the Voinovich Center will provide everything you need to enhance your trail riding experience. Whether you want to shop for trail riding equipment, research public trails, garner tips on trail riding safety, or join a trail riding club, the Trail Riding Pavilion will be the best place to prepare you and your horse to “hit the trail.”

Experience the Pfizer Fantasia!
Equine Affaire’s flagship entertainment spectacular, the equestrian extravaganza Pfizer Fantasia, will take place at 8:00pm on Friday and Saturday nights in the coliseum. This special equine musical revue will feature a star-studded lineup of professional equestrian performers and exceptional horses choreographed to a wide variety of musical styles. At the 2010 Pfizer Fantasia Equine Affaire is especially pleased to feature David Donnert with Chief Bear Paw IV….the sensational trick horse owned by the late horse-training legend, Gaylord Maynard. Enjoy the beauty and diversity of horses of many breeds as well as the excitement of equestrian sports including reining, dressage, driving, drill teams, vaulting, and more! A separate ticket is required, and tickets range in price from $12 to $25. Advance tickets are available through March 31st and can be ordered online at www.equineaffaire.com or by calling Equine Affaire.

From Appaloosas to Zebras (Well, Almost)
There may not be any Zebras at Equine Affaire, but you’ll find representatives of dozens of breeds from around the world at the Cashman Breed Pavilion and Horse & Farm Exhibits area. Whether your heart beats faster for a Mini or a Morgan, a stock horse or a sport horse, you’ll find it at Equine Affaire—along with friendly, knowledgeable breeders and association representatives who’ll answer your questions about characteristics, uses, bloodlines, and selection. There will be a rotating cast of stallions, mares, and geldings presented daily in the Cashman Breed Pavilion and showcased in breed spotlights in the main arenas throughout the weekend.

Learning and Fun for All Ages
Explore a special place for horsey kids of all ages at the Youth Pavilion in the Celeste Center. In addition to educational and horse-related youth association exhibits, the Youth Pavilion will feature a full schedule of presentations by many of the horse industry’s most popular educators, demonstrations of horse breeds, daily stick horse rodeos, and many other fun activities for kids. Do a little elbow-rubbing at the Celebrity Horse Showcase, where you’ll meet equine movie stars as well as “breed stars” from different corners of the horse world.

Test Your Equestrian Savvy and Skills
Equine Affaire is teaming up with Craig Cameron to present his Extreme Cowboy Race on Thursday and Friday afternoons and Sunday morning in the coliseum at Equine Affaire. As seen on RFD-TV, the Extreme Cowboy Race is a competition in which horse and rider teams race through an obstacle course while being judged on their horsemanship abilities. Interested riders must apply in advance to compete for $4250 in cash and other prizes. For details on the race, prizes, and how to apply to compete, consult www.equineaffaire.com or call Equine Affaire. You won’t want to miss the action at this extreme competition as 36 teams put their horsemanship skills to the test negotiating some tough challenges for both horse and rider!

Throw Your (Riding) Hat in the Ring
You can watch clinics and demos from the stands or take advantage of unique opportunities to “Ride with the Best” at the 2010 Equine Affaire! Most clinicians at this year’s event are accepting horses and riders for their sessions. Clinic fees are quite reasonable and include admission to the event and stabling. If you’d like to do more than spectate or you’d like to have your horse trained by a professional, consult www.equineaffaire.com or call Equine Affaire for details on Equine Affaire’s Ride With The Best program.

Efficient and Amazing One-Stop Shopping for Horse Lovers
What’s a horse-fest without shopping? Lace up your most comfortable shoes and hoof it around the largest equine-related trade show in North America. This year’s event will feature more than 450 vendors offering everything from tack and apparel to horse-care items and trailers. Whether you’re planning to build a barn, replace a fence, or install a riding arena or you want to research a new equine discipline, you’ll find information, manufacturers, dealers, associations, and other sources at Equine Affaire. And with spring right around the corner, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to get you and your horse prepared for the upcoming pleasure riding and competition season.

Equine Affaire 2010: The Best Value Ever!
When it comes to tapping into the horse world and learning from the best in the industry, there’s no greater bargain than Equine Affaire. Adult admission includes admission to all clinics, seminars, demos and Craig Cameron’s Extreme Cowboy Race . . . as well as a free printed Equine Affaire program. The program will be your event 411—providing everything you’ll need to know to make the most of your visit. And why not use it to collect autographs or jot down some notes from the clinics and seminars while you’re at it?

If one day at Equine Affaire is good, then more are certainly better. Buy a four-day pass for just $48 (adults) or $28 (kids age 7–10). For adults, that’s a savings of $8 over the daily rate. Advance tickets for Equine Affaire are available through March 19th; at-gate ticket sales will begin at 8:30am each event day.

Go ahead, round up your horsey friends or barn mates and make a getaway of it. Equine Affaire makes your trip even more affordable with room blocks and special discounted rates at more than 40 area hotels. Or pack up your RV and camp right on the Ohio Expo Center grounds where there are sites with electrical, water, and sewer hookups.

No doubt about it: if you love horses, you can’t afford to miss Equine Affaire 2010 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced equestrian, there will be a lot at Equine Affaire for you.

Those Who Make it Possible
Equine Affaire’s complement of educational activities and entertainment are made possible through generous sponsorships by dozens of equine-related companies and organizations. As you partake of all that Equine Affaire has to offer, please extend your thanks to Pfizer Animal Health, Cashmans, Rod’s Western Palace, Coughlin Automotive, Farnam, Andis Clippers, Uckele Health & Nutrition, Light ‘N Lasting, and the more than 30 other sponsors who have endorsed the educational mission of Equine Affaire through their sponsorships of the 17th annual Equine Affaire in Ohio.

The Complete Scoop
The Equine Affaire Web site (www.equineaffaire.com) contains everything you need to make your visit a fun and successful one: admission details, directions, hotel listings, a detailed clinic & seminar schedule, presenter bios, maps, and tips for making the most of your Equine Affaire experience. If you’re not Web-savvy, not to worry. Call the Equine Affaire headquarters at (740) 845-0085 and speak to a member of our knowledgeable, horse-loving staff.

We look forward to seeing you in Columbus, OH, April 8–11!

The Art of the Western Saddle Exhibition to Premiere in Amarillo

America’s Horse, January 21, 2010 – The western saddle is one of the great executions of form and function merging into a third greater thing – art. Its design is built around use, lightness, durability and fit to give the rider the ability to stay on board while at the same time not getting in the way of the horse, all the while being able to hold an 800-pound steer by only a rope wound around the saddle horn.

But more than a tool, western saddles are iconic representations of the work of an indigenous root-based culture in America. As much a part of the cowboy way as a hat and a pair of boots, saddles spoke of work in a unique vocation. Work performed by man and animal together, a task that remains remarkably unchanged due to the nature of the work itself – the moving and caring of livestock.

Like any tool, the saddle became an extension of those who used it and because of that became subject to personalization. That unique personalization and embellishment – call it character – is the basis for a new exhibition opening at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in this month. The Art of the Western Saddle will feature 16 glorious examples of the saddlemaker’s art. Curated by western historian and author William C. Reynolds, the exhibit will feature silver-mounted saddles from important private collections and museums across the country. The collection will display the saddles' unique design, craftsmanship and graceful merging of silver, gold and leather.

Many of the saddles have never been exhibited in public, and the exhibition will be a unique opportunity to see the pinnacle of craftsmanship, embellishing the primary tool of the American cowboy. The exhibit opens January 22, 2010, and will continue through July 31, 2010, at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo, Texas. For more information, visit www.aqhhalloffame.com, e-mail museum@aqha.org or call (806) 376-5181.
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.

WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW IN THE HORSE INDUSTRY DIRECTORY

The Women's Horse Industry Association, the largest business group in the world for women working in the horse industry, has announced the publication of an industry directory called "Women You Should Know In The Horse Industry".

The directory is designed to identify and recognize the members of the WHIA and their products and services. The directory will be a 3 ring binder so that as new members come into the association, they can easily be added to member's contact list. The listings will be by category and state, therefore, making it easier to find the product or service you are looking for. "Our ambition in publishing this directory is simple: We want people in the horse industry to be able to find women who can provide them with the products and services they need and do so easily using this great source book," states Catherine Masters, Executive Director of the association.

The WHIA which only started on June 25, 2009 now has more than 600 members in all areas of the horse industry, offering all types of products and services. The group includes members from all disciplines as well. "If you can't find what you are looking for in our membership, it more than likely does not exist," states WHIA VP, Debby Lening.

The target date for publication is March 31, 2010 and listings are free to all members of the association. Limited ad space is available.

For additional information on the Women's Horse Industry Association, please visit
http://www.womenshorseindustry.com

Lusitanos Fly to Miami

MIAMI (January 18, 2010) -- Watching a well-trained Lusitano float through intricate dressage movements reminds one of Pegasus, the horse whose wings protrude from his muscular shoulders. But unlike this mythical winged equine, the Brazilian horses from The 2010 Lusitano Collection™ International Horse Auction need assistance to travel the 4,000 air miles to Florida. Now in its third year, the Collection relies on Worldwide Livestock Services (WLS) and Lazcar International, both family-owned businesses, to ensure a safe and problem-free trip.


The 21 horses at Interagro Farms and nine horses at Coudelaria Rocas do Vouga Lusitanos traveled by horse van to the airport where they were transferred to specially made, fully covered aluminum jet stalls, three to a pallet, padded on the sides and airy in front and back (see photo).
Interagro Farms Managing Director Cecilia Gonzaga said, “When the horses travel in groups, we don't need to give them tranquilizers as, being herd animals, they are more relaxed and feel safer being next to one another. Accompanied by the veterinarian, trainers and grooms, the horses were given hay and water. Do Vouga manager Raul Silva explained that hay is always available to the horses as chewing helps alleviate boredom for the horses during the nine-hour flight. His staff don jackets as the horses prefer a cold temperature. Silva quipped, “When the lights are put out and the turbines purr, the horses settle back, emit a gentle snore and enjoy the trip!”


Upon arrival at Miami International Airport, the horses were met by a representative from Lazcar International as well as a representative from Worldwide Livestock Services (WLS), the animal handling company founded by Tony Alessandrini and his brother, Alexander Alessandrini. WLS employees, under the supervision of a US Department of Agriculture veterinarian and assisted by the Lusitano Collection™ staff, transported the horses in their three-pack jet stalls to the Miami Animal Import Center, located at the airport facility. The horses were stabled in this new, state-of-the art, self-contained import center, built in 2004 and containing 104 stalls, while they underwent the Florida government-mandated seven-day quarantine. “When one considers the time, effort and expense of shipping a horse from Brazil to USA, there is a huge benefit to buying a horse at the Auction. Not only do you skip the hassle of importation fees and quarantine, you get to meet and deal directly with the breeders,” noted Cecilia Gonzaga.


The 2010 Lusitano Collection™ International Horse Auction will take place at The Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, from February 24 - 27. Interested buyers have the opportunity to view the horses being ridden by their trainers, try out the horses by appointment, examine the horses’ x-rays and medical records and ask the veterinarians questions. Entertainment, cocktails and fine dining will be provided on Friday and Saturday evenings when guests gather for the Showcase and Auction, respectively. For tickets or more information about The 2010 Lusitano Collection™ International Horse Auction, go to www.lusitanocollection.com or call the ticket office at (877) 546-7393.

Shine up yer spurs and dust off yer chaps, it's that time again! You got it...the 5th annual Runamuk Benefit Trail Ride, June 26-27--trail ride, wine social, barn dance and horsemanship clinic. Set up yer camp Friday night and join us for a campfire. On Saturday, starting at 10am, enjoy an afternoon sitting on the back of a horse or comfortably in a horse-drawn wagon seeing the sites of the Bull Mountains in Roundup, Montana. Ride a total of 15 miles through timbered trails, open meadows and over sandstone rimrock. For lunch, tie up your horse and enjoy Charolais beef. Meander your way back to the ranch with more fantastic views and a gander at a homestead cabin. Once back at the ranch, relax before dinner with our popular wine social and live music by Mike Morgan. Following dinner, a live auction will be held. Top off your night with an ol' fashioned barn dance with music by Mike Morgan, Monty Sealey & Frenz.

For those of you who can't get enough time in the saddle, wake Sunday morning to homemade donuts and ride with us at 8:30am as we cover more country on horseback. DeBruycker Charolais has donated two quarters of beef. To purchase your raffle tickets, contact Jody. We'll announce the winners June 26 during the auction and you need not be present to win!

Our intensive horsemanship/working cow horse clinic by Reed Trexler of Corvallis, MT is open to a maximum of 6 participants. Sign up separately for this.
Come join us for a great time for all ages. Pitch a tent or contact Roundup motels. Horse boarding available. For more information or to reserve your spot, call 406-323-3614 or visit www.runamukguestranch.com Recommended donations of $30 for Sat. trail ride, $20 for Sun. trail ride, $40 for the dinner, wine social, auction, and dance. *Please pre-register by June 22.


Chase Hawks Memorial Association

In September of 1994, a six-year-old Montana cowboy named Chase Hawks was killed in a tragic accident. Family and friends gathered to form the Chase Hawks Memorial Association (CHMA) with the goal of finding hope for others facing crisis and possibly easing some of their own heartbreak. The Association keeps Chase's memory forever in the hearts of many while bringing the comfort of much needed assistance to many more. CHMA is simply neighbors helping neighbors in the cowboy tradition of community spirit.

The Association has become a viable source of help for families needing short-term assistance or help with travel, facilities, and local benefits that are not addressed by larger charities or insurance because of immediacy or circumstances. The Association has been able to effectively pull together volunteer efforts from the community at large and provide media focus and corporate cooperation at an unprecedented level. This is primarily due to the universal appeal of a community crisis fund and the fact that the organization is an all-volunteer effort.

The Association's efforts are anchored by the Annual Roughstock Rodeo and the Cowboy Gatherin' dinner and dance. These events have brought fans from a three or four hundred-mile radius to Billings for the weekend. This is a welcome influx for the motel and service businesses at a traditional slow time. The visitors are also in town during the last few days of shopping before Christmas. The rodeo was considered one of the premier roughstock events in the Country the first year and is currently being aired on national television as a one-hour special since its second. The willingness of world-class rodeo personnel to offer their time, as well as the fact that the event draws the best cowboys in the world have established this event as a regional highlight as well as a great advertising opportunity for local and national sponsors.

The Association has provided travel expenses and lodging for family tragedies as well as transplant donors and recipients. Help with peripheral expenses for medical problems, therapy and family travel and expenses due to illness and death have been provided by the fund. Construction of wheelchair ramps and collection of clothes and household items for fire victims have also been accomplished. Co-promotion and media attention have allowed the Association to secure a car, airline and bus tickets, and matching funds from area department stores for families in need. Emergency surgery, funeral expenses, rent, rehabilitation, and retrofit expenses, as well as toys and Christmas money have been provided. Recipients and their friends and families have become volunteers. This is an organization that makes people feel good about their communities and themselves.

Pinecrest Equestrian Introduces the Hay Saver Grazing Box

Olympia, WA - Just in time for mud season in the Northwest, Pinecrest Equestrian, an Olympia company, introduces its Hay Saver Grazing Box, a "slow feeder" designed to be used in pastures, paddocks, sacrifice areas, or anywhere hay is fed outdoors.

Slow feeders are designed to limit the rate at which a horse can consume hay, by only allowing them to remove one small mouthful of hay at a time from the feeder. Horses by nature are trickle feeders, designed to constantly consume small amounts of forage rather than ingest 2 or 3 large meals and spend long periods of time without food. The horse's stomach is always producing acid, and if they don't have access to forage all the time for the stomach to digest, health problems can result.

Shannon Steketee, Pinecrest CEO says, "Our grazing box was born out of necessity. There were two problems we were trying to solve on our boarding farm. One, we wanted our horses to have free choice access to hay because we know it's healthiest for them. This is sometimes done by offering round bales or large amounts of hay in traditional pasture feeders. However when w