EXPERT TRAINING FOR REINERS AND RIDERS OF ALL AGES

Oklahoma City, OK – January 18, 2010 – Two NRHA Million Dollar Riders are coming to Eagle Point, Oregon. The 2010 National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Regional Clinics are coming to the Northwest Region. May 29th & 30th NRHA Professionals Tom McCutcheon and Todd Bergen will once again hold a clinic to benefit reiners of all ages and experience levels at Pheasantbrook LLC. Arena.

NRHA Million Dollar Rider, Tom McCutcheon of Aubrey, Texas comes from a long list of Reining greats. McCutcheon won his first Limited Open Derby in 1995 and by 2006 he reached the Million Dollar mark. He has had numerous awards at the NRHA Futurity and Derby often placing in the coveted Top Ten standings. McCutcheon has also been a pivotal member of the USA teams who have gone on to win Gold at the World Equestrian Games in Spain in 2002. Hometown hero Todd Bergen will also be donating his time to help support the future of reining. NRHA Million Dollar Rider, Bergen is no stranger to championships as well. Winning the Limited Open championship at the Futurity in 1994 and turning around to win the Open Futurity Championship in 1995 it was no wonder he was able to reach Million Dollar status by 2004. He has become a staple with multiple NRHA Derby and Futurity victories.

This is the fifth year the NRHA has organized the clinics to help raise funds for the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA). The clinics are designed to help anyone who is interested in learning more about reining horses, the Reining business and the NRHA. The one-on-one training that participants receive is tailored to each individual’s needs. Every clinic consists of two one-day clinics giving participants the opportunity to attend either or both days as they prefer.

Participants from all disciplines learn by doing and also by watching other reiners during the hands-on sessions. “The amount of advice and knowledge that’s passed along is phenomenal. I’ll learn more here in one afternoon than I would in a week with a book or a video,” said Rick Finkler, NRHyA Regional Clinic participant. Another participant, Ashley Bosack, commented, “I love learning new things and having different trainers teach you. It’s been really fun.”

Space is limited so sign up as soon as possible. All the proceeds go to support the NRHyA scholarships, programs and youth activities. The cost is $250 for youth riders participating both days or $150 per day. Adults are encouraged to participate with an entry of $450 for both days or $250 per day. Auditors are welcome to attend for $25 per day. For more information or to register for a clinic, please contact Manager of Youth & Outreach Programs Brian Bendele at (405) 946-7400 ext. 130 or bbendele@nrha.com

If you would like more information about the NRHyA, go to www.nrhya.com or contact Manager of Youth Programs & Outreach Brian Bendele at bbendele@nrha.com (405) 946-7400, ext. 130.

NORTHWEST EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER HEADED TO ALBANY

HINES, Oregon – For the second year in a row, the Extreme Mustang Makeover
challenge is headed to the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo in Albany, Oregon.
This thrilling competition will take place over three days, culminating in
a fantastic freestyle event in front of a standing room-only crowd. The
Mustang Makeover is set for March 19-21, leaving mustang trainers less than
two weeks to put the final touches on their once-wild Oregon mustangs.

The Northwest event is a spin-off of the highly successful Extreme Mustang
Makeover held first in Texas in 2007. The Mustang Heritage Foundation, a
501(c) 3 nonprofit organization, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land
Management (BLM), created the Extreme Mustang Makeover events in order to
recognize and highlight the value of Mustangs through a national training
competition.

The Mustang Makeover events give the public a unique opportunity to see the
results of wild horses becoming trained mounts. It is a great way to
display the beauty, versatility and trainability of the rugged horses that
roam freely on public lands throughout the West.

Over 30 trainers from Oregon and Washington picked up their “to-be-tamed”
horses at BLM’s Wild Horse Corral Facility in Hines the first weekend in
December 2009. From there, it has been a race to the finish: who can best
train and show their mustang at the Northwest Extreme Mustang Makeover
Challenge.

Trainers and fans alike gather at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center in
Albany beginning March 19. The Mustang Makeover is one of the opening
events for the Annual Northwest Horse Show and Expo. The Mustang Makeover
events are as scheduled as follows:

· Friday, March 19, 6:00 p.m.: Oregon mustangs will be on competitive
display. Trainers are evaluated on the body condition of their mustangs,
as well as their ability to handle the horse "in hand" through a series of
maneuvers including picking up the horse’s feet, maneuvering it through
obstacles and loading it into a trailer.

· Saturday, March 20, 5:30 p.m.: trainers mount their animals and
complete a "horse course" that includes a series of obstacles and requires
the trainer to demonstrate the level of competency the horse has
accomplished.

· Sunday, March 21, 10:30 a.m.: The top ten finalists compete in a
freestyle event, followed immediately by an awards presentation and
competitive bid adoption for the trained mustangs.

For ticket information, go to www.extrememustangmakeover.com or call the
event manager at (512) 869-3225.

Only qualified adopters – those who have registered and been approved to
adopt through the Wild Horse Program – will be able to participate in the
competitive bid adoption. Registration and approval can occur onsite at
the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo before bidding begins, or ahead of time
by mailing an application to BLM Wild Horse Program, 28910 Hwy 20 West,
Hines, Oregon 97738. Those who apply by mail will need to check in at
BLM’s mustang vendor booth upon arrival at the Mustang Makeover event.

All horse enthusiasts are encouraged to consider adopting a mustang. Their
stamina, hardiness, and quick intelligence make Oregon’s wild horses
excellent partners for any discipline.

For more information on the Northwest Extreme Mustang Makeover, call the
Burns District BLM Office at (541) 573-4400. Additional information about
the Wild Horse program is also available online at:
www.blm.gov/or/districts/burns/wildhorse/index.php.


About the BLM:
The BLM manages more land – 253 million surface 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.

Wild horses and burros are managed in Oregon in accordance with the Wild
Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act of 1971. This act gave the Bureau of Land
Management the responsibility to protect wild horses and burros while
ensuring their populations are managed to maintain or restore a thriving
ecological balance.




tara

Horse Event in Sisters this weekend

On behalf of Shari Maguire at Rolling M Ranch in Sisters...

Western Pleasure Demo & Hands On Clinic - Saturday, March 13, 2010 - Sisters

Event Date(s): Saturday, March 13, 2010

Event Time(s): 10am to 1pm

Event Venue: Rolling M Ranch

Event Location: 69516 Hinkle Butte Rd, Sisters OR 97759

Is your horse a pleasure to ride? Learn from the master; one hour demonstration, followed by a hand-on clinic. Shari will teach the methods she uses to quite the mind and body, so that you and your horse can enjoy the ride. All disciplines welcome.

Bring your horse. $10 Haul-In Fee.

Demonstration and Clinic is FREE

Weather Permitting

This is a "No Dog" facility, please leave your pets at home. Call Shari at (541) 549-6962 for more information

Contact: Shari Maguire,

Shari@RollingMRanch.com or (541) 549-6962, http://www.RollingMRanch.com

OR/WA Wild Horse Program Update - March 2010

INTERNET ADOPTION STARTS MARCH 10!!
The next internet adoption starts Wednesday March 10. Get your online
applications submitted an start scouting the 36 Oregon mustangs
available... you'll find LOTS of South Steens PINTOS and other colors like
palomino, strawberry roan, red roan and buckskin. As you scroll through
the pictures, pretend its not March in eastern Oregon...pretend its not wet
and muddy around here, and pretend these beauties have shed their winter
coats and are all slicked off!!! Don't be deterred by the shaggy coats and
muddy socks... these mustangs will CLEAN UP NICE! The internet adoption
site and online gallery can be found at:
www.blm.gov/adoptahorse/onlinegallery.php.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER.... approaching quickly!
Returning to the Northwest Horse Fair & Expo for the second year, this
thrilling competition will take place over three days, culminating in a
fantastic freestyle event in front of a standing room-only crowd! Adoption
immediately to follow! Event schedule:
Friday, 6:00pm: Round 1, In Hand Competition
Saturday, 5:30pm: Round 2, Obstacle Course
Sunday, 10:30am: Freestyle Finals, Winners Announcement, &
Competitive Bid Adoption


*Featuring 30 mustangs gentled and trained in less than 100
days!
*ALL events held in the SilverLite Arena
*For ticket information, go to extrememustangmakeover.com or
call 512-869-3225




Looking forward to seeing you all at the MAKEOVER!

IN OTHER NEWS...
- Thanks to everyone who came out to our COLORFEST adoption in February.
We had fairly nice weather...although a bit cold... and a great turnout!
We adopted 17 horses and placed a handful more into the TIP program or to
be gentled by volunteers for a future adoption event. THANKS AGAIN to
those of you who made the trip!

- We have a wonderful volunteer from Central Oregon who is considering
painting a mural on one of our corral buildings this spring - - I'll be
sure to send pictures of the finished product... hope you can all come out
and see it! Thanks "M" for volunteering! Let's be in touch. Also thanks
to those of you who've volunteered to work at the Makeover event in Albany.
WE APPRECIATE YOU!!


HAPPY MARCH EVERYONE! Spring is right around the corner!



tara

All-Inclusive Ranch Resort Announces New 2010 Cowboy Round-up and Vintner Packages

Darby, Montana – February 2010 – Punxsutawney Phil may have predicted
a longer winter, but there’s no better place to celebrate spring than
in Montana. Triple Creek Ranch has announced the 2010 dates for its
Third Annual Spring Roundup and Seventh Annual Spring Vintners Series.
Over five weekends in May and June, Montana’s premier Relais &
Châteaux member property invites guests to saddle up cowboy-style or
swirl some serious wines from leading U.S. vintners.

Third Annual Spring Roundup

Triple Creek Ranch’s popular Round-up puts guests into a cowboy frame
of mind as they learn about horses, move and brand cattle, and
experience first-hand the excitement of a rodeo. Scheduled May 2-6,
the action-packed five-day/four-night Spring Round-up package includes
a day of learning cowboy basics, a day for branding and a rodeo day.
All meals, beverages, house wines and spirits are included.
All-inclusive, per-couple rates range from $3,150 for a cedar cabin to
$4,350 for a luxury cabin for the four-night program.

The itinerary begins with a Welcome Reception with Triple Creek Ranch
wranglers and Jimmy, the local hatter. Cowboy Basics Day teaches
guests the parts of the horse, catching and saddling the horse, and
mounting and riding a horse. Participants will also observe rope
handling by the Triple Creek cowboys, with on-the-job roping lessons
available. On Branding Day, guests herd and sort the cows, as well as
wrestle and brand the calves. The Round-up culminates in Rodeo Day
where aspiring ranchers can put their new or refined riding skills to
the test with timed events such as barrel racing and pole bending.

At the end of each day, guests return to the privacy of their cabin to
unwind in front of the fireplace, enjoy a couple’s massage and sip
champagne in their hot tub. Guests also enjoy a nightly candlelit
dinner in the Lodge’s award-winning dining room, featuring Executive
Chef Jacob Leatherman’s inspired regional and seasonal cuisine
selections, as well as complimentary cocktails in the Rooftop Lounge.

Seventh Annual Spring Vintners Series

Triple Creek Ranch’s Seventh Annual Spring Vintners Series runs May
through June, with an award-winning winery showcased on each of four
weekends. Each weekend includes wine tastings with visiting vintners,
wine pairing dinners, plus outdoor and indoor activities ranging from
fly-fishing and horseback riding to couple’s massages. The
four-day/three-night program dates are May 14-17, 20-23, 27-30 and
June 3-6, 2010. This year’s visiting vintners are Flora Springs, a
three-generation, family-run vintner; Chappellet, known for their
award-winning Cabernets; Koenig Vineyards, producer of hand-crafted
varietal wines in Idaho’s Snake River Valley; and Fidelitas, a vintner
loyal to Bordeaux’s winemaking techniques renowned for its Cabernet
Sauvignon. Rates begin at $1,950 per couple, based on double
occupancy for the three-night weekend.

For more information and reservations, contact Triple Creek Ranch by
phone at 406-821-4600, 800-654-2943, e-mail at
info@triplecreekranch.com, or via any travel agent. Visit online at
www.triplecreekranch.com.



About Triple Creek Ranch



Rated the #1 US hotel in Travel + Leisure’s 2009 “T+L 500” as well as
the #1 US hotel for service and # 3 hotel worldwide by Travel +
Leisure in 2009, Triple Creek Ranch is a Relais & Châteaux member
property and an Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing lodge and resort. Set
against a backdrop of the Montana Rockies, Triple Creek Ranch is a
favored all-inclusive luxury getaway for couples who appreciate a
balance of rest, romance and outdoor recreation with exquisite
service, an extensive wine cellar and innovative cuisine.
Accommodations in 23 luxury log cabins with fireplace (most with
private hot tub); all meals, snacks and beverages (including hearty
breakfasts and multi-course candlelit gourmet dinners with house wines
and cocktails) are all included. Children 16 and over are welcome.

HRTV PRESENTS "RIDIN' HIGH AMERICA" AS PART OF EQUESTRIAN PROGRAMMING ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Arcadia, CA, Feb. 18, 2010 -- "Ridin' High America," an entertaining 30-minute show highlighting many adventures and happenings in the world of horses, will premiere on HRTV (R) on Monday, February 22.

HRTV's commitment to Equestrian programming moves into its third week, and "Ridin' High America" will air on the network at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. While the show will debut on Monday evenings, it will also re-air on Tuesdays, and the following Sunday.

The opening episode of "Ridin' High America" features the Colorado Horse Drive, where wranglers go on a two-day drive to bring over 400 head of horses in from their summer pasture.

Upcoming episodes of "Ridin' High America" feature a wide-range of entertaining, horse-related topics, including: Arabians handled by talented riding instructors, old-time barrel racing, Women's Pro Rodeo, an inside look at the horses at Turf Paradise, and much more.

"The addition of 'Ridin' High America' to the HRTV line-up of horse sports programming speaks to the needs of many discriminating TV viewers who are looking for wholesome, family-friendly programming," said Jim Bates, HRTV's executive vice president and general manager. "This U.S.-based series will educate, inform and entertain horse lovers throughout world."

"The 'Ridin' High America' series was developed by 'horse people' to build upon, and keep alive, an important part of the American culture, the horse," said Elaine Klugman, producer at Phoebus Productions. "We are delighted with the opportunity to tell these contemporary horse stories on HRTV."

Through true stories of people and their horses, "Ridin' High America" explores the special characteristics and personalities of many diverse equine breeds, and the people who love them. The informative programming provided through the "Ridin' High America" series highlights all types of riding styles, too -- from Western to English and Arabian to Quarterhorse.

HRTV, which carries horseracing from many of the sport's top venues, will add a wide-variety of Equestrian programming, highlighting both major international and US-based competitions, as well as documentaries and
instructional shows, in the months ahead. New Equestrian programming will debut on Monday evenings, both in the morning and primetime on Tuesdays, and on Sunday mornings.

About HRTV
HRTV (www.hrtv.com) is a 24-hour, television-based multimedia network dedicated to the "Sport of Kings," horseracing, featuring live racing action from many of the sport's greatest racetracks. Passionate horse fans are also entertained and informed by HRTV's award-winning documentaries, original programming, in-depth analysis and equestrian lifestyle programming. The live stream of HRTV is available on a subscription basis at www.hrtvlive.com to high speed internet users worldwide. The HRTV television network is presently available via cable, telco video and satellite in 19 million US homes.

Five Abandoned Horses- Including Two Mothers and Their Babies are in desperate Need of Help

Two female mother horses with babies by their side were found abandoned in Sacramento County in December. Sacramento County Animal Care & Regulation has been caring for them, but despite outreach efforts, no one has shown any interest in adopting them.

Who: Sacramento County Animal Care & Regulation and the Grace Foundation of Northern California
What: 5 horses need good permanent homes or sponsorship to help care for them until homes can be found.
When: Please come visit the horses and talk with Animal Care Director Pat Claerbout and Grace Foundation Director Beth DeCaprio. Interviews available anytime.
Where: Sacramento County Animal Care & Regulation 3839 Bradshaw Road Sacramento, Ca.
Contact: Pat Claerbout- (916)875-5051
Beth DeCaprio (916)396-2768 or (916)941-0800, beth@thegracefoundationofnorcal.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 16, 2010
Five horses, (two of which are mother horses with young babies by their side), have been at the Sacramento County Animal Shelter since December and despite advertising efforts, no one has shown interest in adopting them.

“While the Sacramento County Animal Care & Regulation Department can investigate, seize and provide emergency care for abandoned and neglected horses, we cannot provide long term care nor do we have the resources and experience to ensure optimum horse adoptions,” said Pat Claerbout, Animal Shelter Director. “Our partnership with The Grace Foundation helps with assessment, long term care and with placement.” The Grace Foundation has already taken one horse that was severely neglected and is providing care and treatment , Claerbout added.


While the Grace Foundation of Northern California typically allows the horses additional time and training until homes can be found, they are currently home to 150 horses and taking more is not possible without help.

“Each new horse cost sour organization more than $2,500 per year,” said Executive Director Beth DeCaprio. “With adoptions slowing and neglect on the rise, it is a struggle to take on more.” These horses could easily cost our organization an additional $25,000 plus this year and we simply do not have the funds to care for them, DeCaprio added.

At the first of the year The Grace Foundation assumed responsibility for an ailing non-profit organization – Ride and Shine – that offered therapeutic programs for Children with special needs. “We are trying to help everywhere we can in the community, but without additional assistance we simply cannot spread ourselves out any more,” DeCaprio said.
Both organizations are hoping that people will come forward to adopt the horses, or donate to the Grace Foundation to enable them to take these horses. Please help us to let the community know about these horses plight.

To visit the horses please contact: Pat Claerbout (916) 875-5051 or Beth DeCaprio (916) 396-2768 or (916) 941-0800

Trilogy Ambassador Adrienne Lyle’s Winning Streak Continues

Thermal, CA (February 16, 2010) – Adrienne Lyle, the 2008 National Brentina Cup Champion, was on fire during Thermal’s Dressage Getaway show, winning Grand Prix’s with both of her horses and earning top scores aboard all of her mounts. Lyle, an Ambassador for Trilogy Dressage Saddles, competed at the Dressage Getaway in Thermal in January and continued her winning streak in February at Thermal’s Dressage Getaway CDI.
“I was thrilled with my horses during January’s show. Wizard and Felix came back two days in a row and put in really consistent tests,” Lyle said. “I was first and second in the Grand Prix classes both days. It was really wonderful.”
Lyle and Wizard earned a score of 80.213% in January’s Grand Prix, followed closely by Lyle and Felix with a score of 78.936%. “We flip-flopped because the day before Felix won the class with a 76.809% and Wizard came in second with a 72.128%,” Lyle said.
In addition to riding Wizard and Felix in Trilogy Dressage Saddles, Lyle also rides her Prix St. Georges mount, Whidbey, and her Third Level horse, Wenesa, in Trilogy saddles. Lyle kept the big scores going with Whidbey and Wenesa during the Dressage Getaway, earning a 78.947% and 71.842% in the Prix St. Georges classes with Whidbey. She also won two Third Level classes aboard Wenesa with scores of 78.205% and 69.231%.
During February’s Dressage Getaway CDI, an official qualifying competition and selection trials for the 2010 World Equestrian Games, Lyle and Felix won the Grand Prix de Dressage with a score of 69.62% and the Grand Prix Special with a score of 69.37%. Lyle and Wizard also placed fourth in the Grand Prix de Dressage.
Lyle, who works as the assistant trainer to Olympian Debbie McDonald at River Grove Farm, began her career with Debbie as a working student. “For the past four years I have been working with Debbie, training and showing horses for the Thomas family,” Lyle said.
Lyle and McDonald are both Ambassadors for Trilogy Dressage Saddles and Lyle said she enjoys her relationship with Trilogy President Debbie Witty. “Debbie is wonderful, she works on my horse’s saddles every few months to make sure they are fitting correctly. As the horses become stronger, and more fit, their bodies change and Debbie adjusts the saddles accordingly,” Lyle said.
Lyle rides in the Amadeo Trilogy Saddle and said the saddle places her in a position that allows her to use her seat and aids correctly and more effectively. “The Amadeo has a moderately deep seat which gives me a secure place to sit without making me feel restricted. In addition, the quality and craftsmanship of Trilogy Saddles is exceptional,” she said.
Witty, a qualified saddle fitter from the Society of Master Saddlers of England, has developed an eye for detail along with an understanding of training and the ability to see how the rider, saddle and the horse are all affected by each other. Her Trilogy Dressage Saddles are built in England by some of the most experienced craftsmen in the world. For more information on Trilogy Saddles or their sponsored riders, visit their website at www.trilogysaddles.com.

Verdugo Hills and Lake View Shows Team Up

Langer Equestrian Group kicked off its 2010 show season at the Hansen Dam Equestrian Center on January 30th and 31st with a new model: Lake View runs two rings on one day with classes approved by Tri Valley Horse Shows Association, LAHJA B, and San Fernando Hunter/Jumper Association B. Meanwhile, the Verdugo Hills shows are approved by USEF, USHJA, LAHJA A, and San Fernando Hunter/Jumper Association A. Open hunter and jumper classes are held on one day, beginning at noon, and the junior and amateur classes run on the second day, along with a complete set of jumper classes for all levels of riders.
“We wanted to draw more people from the various sanctioning organizations,” says Verdugo Hills Show Secretary Linda McRae. “We also thought it would be a good opportunity for the trainers to be able to bring more horses from their barns, because we offer a wide variety of classes from Opportunity and Walk-Trot to the open rated divisions. We wanted to provide a quality horse show at a lower cost.” She says the feedback has been very positive.
This format offers trainers and riders a cost effective, one day option. In addition to the lower class fees, the Exhibitor Reward Incentive program and Maui Trainer Incentive are designed to encourage more participation. Class fees were lowered to $25 with no nomination or late fees, and a free class is given for early entries. The Exhibitor Reward Incentive Program grants gift certificates good at Verdugo Hills shows for accumulating participation points by attending Verdugo Hills Shows. Finally, the Maui Trainer Incentive awards a Hawaiian vacation to the trainer whose students earn the most points during the show season. Visit http://www.langershows.com/programs.php for more information.
Mark Purcell, winner of last year’s Maui Trainer Incentive, likes the lower class fees, the improved footing and the courses. “The courses are nice for these shows,” he said. “It’s great exposure to take young horses or kids competing in a new division. Nothing is overly intimidating.”
“The format for the hunter ring worked nicely,” said Nancy Frost. “It was great that only the open hunter sections showed on Saturday. This enabled the professionals to focus on their horses without having to worry about getting to clients in other rings. The schooling Saturday morning enabled the juniors and amateurs to prepare for Sunday without waiting until the show was over for the day. Sunday, the professionals could focus on their clients.”
This was Frost’s first time showing at a Verdugo Hills show, but she plans to attend future shows with her young riders, medal riders and jumpers, as well as her young hunter and jumper horses. “This is an excellent venue to compete at a quality show that is fun and very affordable,” she explained.
She went on to explain, “The show was well organized, low key and fun. The back gate people were accommodating and helped everyone get to where they needed to be.”
Frost brought several young horses to the show. “I wanted to show them at a relaxed show where they would not be overwhelmed. I selected Verdugo Hills as the management has improved the footing, they have lovely jumps and they have a quality course designer. It was a positive experience for my young horses.”
She took home several blues with her young horses, including Golden Pilot, who was Champion in the Baby Green Hunters. Summer's Golden Light was Champion in both the Pre-Green Hunters and the Modified Open Hunters. Both horses are owned by China Blue Farm. She attributed the confidence of her horses to the quality of the jumps and courses, as well as the low-stress environment.
Chris Collman designed attractive, approachable, non-intimidating courses for young horses and riders for the Verdugo Hills show, while Brett Starnes was the designer for Lake View.
Frost says, “It was wonderful to have plenty of flowers and greenery. The hunter courses flowed nicely. The distances were appropriately set for the different divisions. They were inviting for the young horses which builds confidence. The step was appropriately adjusted as the height of the jumps went up, so the horses could gallop to the higher jumps.”
Resident trainer Sandrine Seifert agrees. “The courses were top quality and competitive. They were excellent practice and preparation for my riders who would like to show at some of the bigger and higher rated shows. The jumper jumps and courses were super, and were inviting but challenging. The courses were just as competitive as some of the A rated National Shows.”
Seifert had other reasons to enjoy the show as well. “I loved the format. My riders could school in the morning on Saturday, and if the horses needed more schooling I could even show them that same afternoon to ensure the horses be well prepared for my riders on Sunday. The cost of the classes are the cheapest around. The show allows all of my riders to show, get some great experience, acquire points for their sections, and qualify for medal finals.”

Seifert’s student Lilly Smolan, who was riding in the Long Stirrup section last year, made her jumper debut aboard Answered Prayer. She was third in her first-ever jumper class with the fastest time of the four fault riders. Smolan also rode in three medal classes with Never Been Kissed, winning her SFVHJA Futures Medal and getting second in the CPHA Horsemanship Medal. “It was so nice to have the medals fill and be competitive,” Seifert says.
Complete results for the shows are on the LEG website: http://www.langershows.com/verdugo/show_details.php?show_id=166
The next Verdugo Hills/Lake View show will take place on March 6th and 7th, offering participants a chance to earn participation points or points toward the Maui Trainer Incentive. Schedules, entry blanks, and prize lists are online www.langershows.com.

Horseman’s College and Barn Arena Expand Offerings at Rocky Mountain Horse Expo

Smaller venues are best for certain types of presentations, so the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo (Denver, March 12-14) will feature two locations where the speakers can get “up close and personal” with the audience.

Horseman’s College provides a classroom setting ideal for slide shows, lectures and plenty of opportunity for questions and answers. In the Barn Arena, speakers will have the twin advantages of intimate surrounding and a dirt floor for demonstrating with horses.

Featured in these learning-friendly venues will be:

· Rick Lamb, TV/Radio host and author: Three talks on horses and modern horsemanship
Kathy Doesken: Environmental Management
Juliet Getty, Ph. D.: Feed Your Horse Like A Horse—Topics in equine nutrition
Temple Grandin, Ph.D.: Author and animal behavior consultant
Wayne Hipsley: From a Judge’s Point of View—Insights into in-hand and trail competitions
Duke Latham: Small Acreage Management
David Kaden: Saddle Fitting
Barbara Page, DVM: Foot Fundamentals—The foundation of your horse’s health
Jim Pascucci: Rolfing
Joan Ranquet: Animal Communicator
Carol Walker, author and photographer: Equine Photography for Amateurs, and Saving America’s Wild Herds

Three days of horse education and entertainment—a five-star value, at new family-friendly prices. For more information, visit www.RockyMountainHorseExpo.com or call (303) 292-4981.

OREGON WILD HORSE ADOPTION: FEBRUARY 19-20

The first Pacific Northwest mustang adoption for 2010 is set for Friday and
Saturday, February 19 and 20 at the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Wild
Horse Corral Facility in Hines, OR. Over 100 vivid pintos, speckled roans,
and creamy palominos are slated for adoption at this two-day event. Other
select colors include buckskin, dun, sorrel, bay and black. This will be
the first opportunity since the fall 2009 round-ups to adopt mustangs from
the South Steens, Paisley and Palomino Butte Herd Management Areas in
Southeast Oregon.


Animal viewing and adopter registration is Friday, February 19 from 8:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday, February 20 from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. The
silent competitive bid for featured mustangs begins Saturday at 12:00 noon.
Only registered and approved adopters can participate in the silent bidding
process for the animal. Registration can occur onsite at the event. For
early approval and advanced planning, fax your adoption application before
February 19 to Patti or Ramona with the BLM Burns Office at: (541)
573-4411.

Julie Goodnight Tip of the Month

PONCHA SPRINGS, Colo. February 12, 2010— Have you ever had an ad drop out at the last moment—or a space that didn’t sell before printing deadline? Or has someone turned in a story that’s just a little too short? It’s Julie Goodnight and www.juliegoodnight.com to the rescue. Check out the newest addition to Goodnight’s online “Training Library” here and read more about training online (found with a quick link at the top of www.juliegoodnight.com). Goodnight—known for her clear communication in print and on her new RFD-TV show, Horse Master with Julie Goodnight—provides a tip each month for use when you, as an editor, need just a little more content or a great quip to fill out your magazine. Tips may be edited for style, length and content. Content is provided free of charge. Here’s a tip to help you when you’re in a layout crunch . . .

Cleaning Saddle Pads
Here’s a quick tip for keeping your saddle pads clean and comfortable for your horse. Many people prefer to use a very thin “sweat pad” underneath the regular pad, made of an easily washable and absorbent material that absorbs the sweat and keeps your pad clean. If you use a thicker pad that is hard to wash in a machine, you can periodically curry it with a metal curry comb to remove sweat and hair or you can take it to the car wash and hang it where you would normally hang your car mats to give a high-pressure wash. Make sure to rinse it very well and leave plenty of time for it to dry thoroughly in the sun.

Julie has a full, FREE Training Library with hundreds of articles and many more online resources:
http://www.JulieGoodnight.com
http://www.twitter.com/juliegoodnight
http://facebook.com/Julie.Goodnight
http://www.youtube.com/juliegoodnight
and during Julie Goodnight's weekly TV show
on RFD-TV (Wednesdays at 5:30 EST).

Julie Goodnight is sponsored by Myler Bits, Nutramax Laboratories, Circle Y Saddles, Spalding Labs, Troxel, Kestar Boots, and the Certified Horsemanship Association. Visit http://www.juliegoodnight.com and http://www.horsemaster.tv for more information about Julie Goodnight and her Horse Master television show. RFD-TV is available on DirecTV channel 345 and Dish channel 231 as well as cable outlets. Visit http://www.rfdtv.com/ to find out how to view the channel in your area.

A service of The Whole Picture, LLC., http://www.wholepicture.org

Trilogy Ambassador Adrienne Lyle Scores Big At Thermal’s Dressage Getaway

Thermal, CA (February 16, 2010) – Adrienne Lyle, the 2008 National Brentina Cup Champion, was on fire during Thermal’s Dressage Getaway show, winning Grand Prix’s with both of her horses and earning top scores aboard all of her mounts. Lyle, an Ambassador for Trilogy Dressage Saddles, competed at the Dressage Getaway in Thermal, January 15-17.
“I was thrilled with my horses during the show. Wizard and Felix came back two days in a row and put in really consistent tests,” Lyle said. “I was first and second in the Grand Prix classes both days. It was really wonderful.”
Lyle and Wizard earned a score of 80.213% in Saturday’s Grand Prix, followed closely by Lyle and Felix with a score of 78.936%. “We flip-flopped because the day before Felix won the class with a 76.809% and Wizard came in second with a 72.128%,” Lyle said.
In addition to riding Wizard and Felix in Trilogy Dressage Saddles, Lyle also rides her Prix St. Georges mount, Whidbey, and her Third Level horse, Wenesa, in Trilogy saddles. Lyle kept the big scores going with Whidbey and Wenesa during the Dressage Getaway, earning a 78.947% and 71.842% in the Prix St. Georges classes with Whidbey. She also won two Third Level classes aboard Wenesa with scores of 78.205% and 69.231%.
Lyle, who works as the assistant trainer to Olympian Debbie McDonald at River Grove Farm, began her career with Debbie as a working student. “For the past four years I have been working with Debbie, training and showing horses for the Thomas family,” Lyle said.
Lyle and McDonald are both Ambassadors for Trilogy Dressage Saddles and Lyle said she enjoys her relationship with Trilogy President Debbie Witty. “Debbie is wonderful, she works on my horse’s saddles every few months to make sure they are fitting correctly. As the horses become stronger, and more fit, their bodies change and Debbie adjusts the saddles accordingly,” Lyle said.
Lyle rides in the Amadeo Trilogy Saddle and said the saddle places her in a position that allows her to use her seat and aids correctly and more effectively. “The Amadeo has a moderately deep seat which gives me a secure place to sit without making me feel restricted. In addition, the quality and craftsmanship of Trilogy Saddles is exceptional,” she said.
Witty, a qualified saddle fitter from the Society of Master Saddlers of England, has developed an eye for detail along with an understanding of training and the ability to see how the rider, saddle and the horse are all affected by each other. Her Trilogy Dressage Saddles are built in England by some of the most experienced craftsmen in the world. For more information on Trilogy Saddles or their sponsored riders, visit their website at www.trilogysaddles.com.

Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation

Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation is an award winning neglect prevention charity in the state of Washington. The Equine Stewardship Center, Skagit County Animal Control and Ripley's HAF have successfully completed the first ever castration clinic in Washington. It combined the efforts of Dr. Wesley of Chuckanut Veterinarian Hospital and veterinarian students from Washington State University and Oregon State University.

Ripley's Horse Aid has also provide the "Hay 4 Horses" voucher program through Animal Control Officers who issue feed and care vouchers to owners that keep the horses out of the over populated rescues through education, tangible goods and services. Relinquished horses go into rescue or foster facilities to be evaluated for adoption or euthanasia. The educational guide "Cause & Effect" for equine care is being used by officers and as educational materiel for the inexperienced owners state wide.

It is the answer to the question "What do we do now in this epidemic of horse over population in the US." Our next goal is setting up the first ever euthanasia clinic as this is very expensive for horse owners who are barely able to feed the horse.

Ripley's is a permanent 501-C-3 with 100% volunteers working in cooperation with several animal groups, farriers and officers to manage the numbers within each county in the state of Washington. On average, this is ranging from $15,000 to $36,000 for a county and they can expect to assist 100 to 150 horses in a 12 month period of time. $15,000 is used for the Neglect Prevention/Education and $15,000 for the equines that make the cut and are brought into the foster program. The rest is undedicated funds to be used on overhead and unforeseen expenses to give the program the versatility and flexibility for each need of local seized horses.

Using Animal control for the voucher program gives the officer the power to assist the horse owners in a temporary hardship situation and create a history of the ones that will ultimately be unable to successfully keep the horse within the health requirement required by law. These officers are not their neighbors and can walk away from the situation and reduce the amount of hostility and retaliation of neighbors. It is more likely that the "neighbor" will get the assistance the horse and owner needs before it becomes an unlawful condition of animal cruelty.
These interventions can cost as little as $120 per horse to educate and to give the owner a leg up and correct the problems.

It is a cost affective solution for Counties to take control of the growing number of animal cruelty, neglect and abandonment cases in their own counties.

Michelle Miner
2 1/2 years Code Enforcement Officer
President Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation
Ripley's Onsite Service Provider, Skagit County
Skagit Sheriffs Department Foster care provider
360-826-4101

Wilma Tronstad
Director Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation
Service Provider Washington State
360-826-4101

Certified Horsemanship Association Produces Regional Conferences Around the Country for All Horse Enthusiasts

(February 2010) – Please add these to your event calendars and plan on attending The Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Regional Conferences being held around the country this year. These educational events are open to the public and provide horses for participants to ride while learning from top instructors and trainers. Please click here to find others near you as more are being added all the time - http://www.cha-ahse.org/regions.htm

Region 1 (British Columbia, WA, Western MT, ID, OR, Alberta)
Region 1 Conference - Canyonview Equestrian Center/College in Silverton, OR February 25-28, 2010. Contact Angela at (971) 239-1347 or visit http://www.canyonviewcamp.org/go/

Region 4 (Lower MI, IN, OH, TN, KY, WV, Eastern Ontario)
Region 4 Conference - Winton Woods Riding Center in Cincinnati, Ohio April 29 - April 30, 2010. Terry Williams (513) 850-5397 or at TerryJonesT@aol.com

Region 5 (NY, NJ, Washington DC, VA, DE, PA, MD)
Region 5 Conference - Houghton College Equestrian Center in Houghton, NY March 19-20, 2010. Jo-Anne Young (585) 567-8142 or at joanne.young@houghton.edu

Region 6 (NH, VT, ME, MA, CT, RI, New Brunswick, Quebec, Newfoundland)
Region 6 Conference – Pony Farm in Temple, New Hampshire June 12, 2010. Lori Maciulewicz (774) 259-1004 or at hideawayfarmljm@yahoo.com

Region 7 (NC, GA, FL, SC, AL)
Region 6 Conference - Birmingham, AL - March 24, 2010 - contact Aimee Canterbury cmpcoleman@aol.com (866) 882-3572
The purpose of CHA is to promote excellence in safety and education for the benefit of the horse industry. CHA certifies instructors and trail guides, accredits equestrian facilities, publishes educational manuals, produces how-to videos and hosts regional and international conferences. For more information on the Certified Horsemanship Association, please visit www.CHA-ahse.org or call toll free 1-800-399-0138. To find a certified horseback riding instructor or accredited equine facility near you visit www.CHAinstructors.com.

OR/WA Wild Horse Program Update, February 2010

GET READY TO ADOPT AN OREGON MUSTANG....ITS COLORFEST TIME!!!!!!!!
February 19/20 is FAST approaching!!! Get your trailer hooked up, your
tank full of fuel and your motel reserved - Harney County is ready to
welcome you to the 2010 COLORFEST event at Oregon's Wild Horse Corral
Facility in Hines. Check out the event flyer below. If you can, please go
to our web site [www.blm.gov/or/resources/whb/adopt.php], print the flyer,
and plaster it EVERYWHERE!! Spread the word! [Thank you Cyndie Planck
Photography for the fabulous flyer pic!]
(Embedded image moved to file: pic22355.jpg)

Come on out and get ready to see some COLOR!!! Wowza!!! 100-150 vivid
pintos, speckled roans and creamy palominos (among others!) are featured
for adoption at this 2-day event. Animal viewing and adopter registration
is Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday, 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. The
silent competitive bid for featured mustangs begins Saturday at 12:00 noon.
This will be the first opportunity since the fall 2009 round-ups to adopt
mustangs from the South Steens, Paisley and Palomino Butte Herd Management
Areas in Southeast Oregon. We strongly encourage getting your application
to adopt in EARLY - if you can fax it BEFORE the event, you'll be 10 steps
ahead when it comes adoption time... the earlier your application is
approved, the longer you have to scout the mustangs and warm up your bid
number. Fax applications to: Patti Wilson/Ramona Bishop at 541/573-4411.
Only registered adopters can bid...and, sorry, no proxy bidding at this
event. Call us for more information - 541/573-4400.

UPDATED SCHEDULE...AGAIN...
We added one event and changed the location of another - check out the
latest and greatest 2010 event schedule at:
www.blm.gov/or/resources/whb/adopt.php

SPECIFIC VOLUNTEER NEEDS:
We usually put a call out for 'program volunteers'.... we have many
interested folks, and we sure appreciate all of you! This time I'm taking
a different approach - we have some specific volunteer needs that require
some talented, motivated, organized and creative people! Let me know if
you can help:

1) Redesign our 'space' at the High Desert Museum in Bend... We have a
wonderful display space at the Museum, but its kind of 'blah' and
uninviting... we have some funding to spice it up and we REALLY need some
professional help here. Anyone have a marketing, design, architecture, or
decorating background? This effort would involve one or more trips to the
museum and some design and implementation work.

2) Paint a mural and some lettering on the side of one or more buildings at
the Corral Facility... one painting (letters) will be on corrugated metal.
Does that make it complicated? I'm not sure.

3) Work at the Oregon State Fair in the Wild Horse & Burro Program booth
sometime between August 27 and September 6. Shifts will probably be around
3 hours.

We appreciate you!!!!!!!!!!

INTERNET ADOPTIONS COMING SOON!
We are planning to feature Oregon mustangs on several internet adoptions
this year, beginning in March. The schedule looks like: March 10-24, May
5-19, July 14-28, and September 1-5. Make sure to visit
www.blm.gov/adoptahorse to see the online galleries for each internet
adoption! And remember...we usually offer 25-30 horses per internet
adoption, which leaves room for 5-10 more horses to join the shipping truck
back east. This would be a good opportunity to adopt an Oregon mustang
without competing (no bidding) and without the hassle of private shipping!
Start your shopping now... hope to have more pictures of available mustangs
posted at the first of the month (March).

BLOG, BLOG, BLOG, BLOG, BLOG....
There are dozens of mustang blogs out there, too many to name here!!! We
do want to highlight Oregon's Extreme Mustang Makeover bloggers.... they
are all listed down the right hand side of this page:
www.extrememustangmakeover.com/blog.html - - - - CHECK 'EM OUT!!!!
You'll notice there are other trainer blogs posted here, too... not just
Oregon event trainers. Which is GREAT! Have a look at all the mustang
training and support we have out there....

And one more: Check out the Wild Trails Horse Expo blog at
www.wildtrailshorseexpo.blogspot.com/. BLM partners with Central Oregon
Wild Horse Coalition and Brasada Ranch each year to host this training and
adoption event. Hope you can make it in 2010 - July 30/31 and August 1.



HAPPY FEBRUARY EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!


tara

Kerrits Launches New Website

Hood River, OR- Evolving the capabilities of existing equestrian apparel web sites, www.kerrits.com is a must experience website for equestrian and fashionista's alike.

Get up close and personal with their apparel, experiencing it in detail using the new zoom feature that allows you to easily see the vibrant colors and patterns down to the minutest detail.

The new virtual fashion show helps you explore the various combinations of tops and bottoms that Kerrits has to offer. Great for customers and retailers alike to see how you can easily mix and match all of kerrits apparel.

Another feature of the new site is their video series, Pilates for the Equestrian. This series was inspired by the Pilates practice of Kerrits founder, Kerri Kent. Participate in this free, six-part fitness series to strengthen your position in the saddle, improving balance, posture and stability. Look for a new one each month.

Shop with confidence through the Kerrits dealer network with the 24 Kerrit Guarantee. Kerrits stands behind its products and unconditionally guarantees all of them for one year from the date of purchase. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your Kerrits purchase return it with the original receipt to the store where you purchased it and they will exchange it or return your money.

Kerrits is an environmentally focused company and their products are made in the USA.

Take a look at some of their other New Web Site Features. Kerrits would love to hear what you have to say.

Write your own product review - Tell us what you think and rate out apparel now!
Become a Kerrits Team or Ambassador - We want you! Sign up now to become a Kerrits sponsored team or ambassador
Breech Comparison Chart - Kerrits new quick reference guide outlines the features of all their tights and breeches.

Kerrits is very active on Facebook and Twitter. Please join and follow Kerrits adventures.

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

Oregon Wild horse Adoption: February 19-20

HINES, Ore. – The first Pacific Northwest mustang adoption for 2010 is set
for Friday and Saturday, February 19 and 20 at the Bureau of Land
Management’s (BLM) Wild Horse Corral Facility in Hines, OR. Over 100 vivid
pintos, speckled roans, and creamy palominos are slated for adoption at
this two-day event. Other select colors include buckskin, dun, sorrel, bay
and black. This will be the first opportunity since the fall 2009
round-ups to adopt mustangs from the South Steens, Paisley and Palomino
Butte Herd Management Areas in Southeast Oregon.

Animal viewing and adopter registration is Friday, February 19 from 8:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday, February 20 from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. The
silent competitive bid for featured mustangs begins Saturday at 12:00 noon.
Only registered and approved adopters can participate in the silent bidding
process for the animal. Registration can occur onsite at the event. For
early approval and advanced planning, fax your adoption application before
February 19 to Patti or Ramona with the BLM Burns Office at: (541)
573-4411.

“All horse enthusiasts are encouraged to consider becoming adopters so
these wild horses can be placed in good, safe homes. With their stamina,
hardiness, and quick intelligence, Oregon's wild horses make excellent
partners for any discipline,” said Gary McFadden, BLM Burns District Wild
Horse Management Specialist. Horses from the South Steens herd are
characterized by color and above average conformation, while Palomino Butte
and Paisley horses host a variety of colors and feature a saddle horse type
quality. The animals range in age class from yearling to five years old
and adoption fees begin at $125.

Don’t forget: February is free shipping month for Oregon mustangs. If you
adopt directly from the Corral Facility this month, the BLM will haul the
mustang for you within a 400-mile radius.

Additional information about the BLM’s wild horse and burro program is
available online at:

www.blm.gov/or/resources/whb/index.php


About the BLM: The BLM manages more land – 253 million surface 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.

HRTV PRESENTS PALM'S PARTNERSHIP TRAINING AS PART OF EQUESTRIAN PROGRAMMING ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Arcadia, CA, Feb. 4, 2010 -- Renowned horse trainer/clinician Lynn Palm will impart her vast expertise of horsemanship instruction to HRTV (R) viewers on a weekly basis, beginning this Monday, February 8, when the network unveils its commitment to Equestrian programming.

Palm's Partnership Training will debut on HRTV at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT, and the wide array of informative half-hour shows will continue weekly over the next several months. While the shows premiere on Monday evenings, they will also re-air on Tuesdays, and the following Sunday.

"I am excited to be part of HRTV's new Equestrian programming line-up," said Palm.

A pioneer among women in the horse industry for the past four decades, and accomplished in many Equestrian disciplines, Palm has championed the "partnership" between the horse and rider. Based in Florida, she has influenced thousands of horse enthusiasts with her unique, and effective, approach to training. Palm's primary goal is to educate horse enthusiasts from the first time owner to the avid competitor on general horse care, horsemanship
and ground and under saddle training.

"HRTV's expansion into a leadership role in Equestrian TV is greatly enhanced by having a renowned presence like Lynn Palm on during our opening night of Equestrian programming," said Jim Bates, HRTV's executive vice president and general manager. "Lynn's 'partnership' series provides both informative, and compelling, shows in the weeks ahead."

HRTV, which carries horseracing from many of the sport's top venues, will add a wide-variety of Equestrian programming, highlighting both major international and US-based competitions, as well as documentaries and instructional shows, in the months ahead. New Equestrian programming will debut on Monday evenings, both in the morning and primetime on Tuesdays, and on Sunday mornings.

About HRTV
HRTV (www.hrtv.com) is a 24-hour, television-based multimedia network dedicated to the "Sport of Kings," horseracing, featuring live racing action from many of the sport's greatest racetracks. Passionate horse fans are also entertained and informed by HRTV's award-winning documentaries, original programming, in-depth analysis and equestrian lifestyle programming. The live stream of HRTV is available on a subscription basis at www.hrtvlive.com to high speed internet users worldwide. The HRTV television network is presently available via cable, telco video and satellite in over 18.5 million US homes.

Professional Reiner Tanya Jenkins Joins Team eZall

Team eZall, a group of horsemen that represent the industry's leading grooming product, recently gained a new team member: professional reiner Tanya Jenkins. Based in Temecula, California, Jenkins has proved herself as a stand-out trainer and competitor in the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA).
“eZall supports equestrian athletes across the nation and we're proud to have Tanya Jenkins join our 'family'. By incorporating a training facility for performance horses, Non Pro and Youth riders and a breeding facility, she is a perfect addition to Team eZall,” says John Collet of eZall.

Jenkins says that she uses only the best products on both her breeding stock and her performance horses.
“I just love the new Green eZall! It really suds up well and is so easy to use. Plus it smells great! I like to take eZall to the shows to keep my horses looking their best throughout the entire show without having to spend too much time in the wash rack,” says Jenkins.

Drawn to the sport of reining in 1993, Jenkins has worked with some of the most prestigious reining trainers and performance horses. Placing in the 2007 NRHA Top 20, she was one of the highest money earning professionals of the year.

About Tanya Jenkins
Tanya began her life-long career with horses when she was eight. Showing all-around horses for almost 17 years, she worked with various pleasure & all-around trainers throughout her teens. During the course of several visits to NRHA & AQHA champion Bob Loomis' ranch a few times a year — gaining as much knowledge as possible in those meetings; and working & riding with various reining trainers including the guidance and influence of NRHA Futurity winner John Slack, Tanya decided to focus her professional training career on the reining industry. Since then she has won numerous NRHA titles and has placed in the NRHA Top 20 list. Learn more about Tanya by visiting her web site at www.tanyajenkinsperformancehorses.com.

About eZall
All eZall products are bio-based, non-toxic and environmentally safe. This means that each ingredient in every product is screened for potential human health and environmental effects. Unlike traditional equine and cattle grooming products they do not contain potentially harmful chemicals or components. eZall has gone to great lengths to bring the animal industry quality products that are safe for the users, animals and the environment. For more information about eZall products please visit our web site at www.ezall.com, or give us a call at 1-877-TRY-eZall.

Make Plans to Attend Western States Horse Expo and,Add a Little Whiney and Woof to Your Summer

Western States Horse Expo

For more info contact:
Miki Cohen
800-352-2411
miki@horsexpo.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Make Plans to Attend Western States Horse Expo and
Add a Little Whiney and Woof to Your Summer

Western States Horse Expo, the largest horse exposition in North
America has long offered horse lovers more to see and do in one spot
than any other venue in the country. Now, dog lovers can get in on the
action at the expo’s new Dog Pavilion which will debut at this year’s
event in Sacramento, California on June 11-13, 2010.

New in 2010, the Dog Pavilion will feature training seminars,
demonstrations, an adoption area and 300 shopping booths offering
items for the pampered pooch in your life ranging from blinged-out
collars and leashes to dog bowls and training aids.

Horseowners can look forward to three action-packed days of exciting
demonstrations by world-class clinicians, the Equine Dream Art Show
and shopping areas like “Rigs and Digs” and “The Ranch” that offer
everything from horse trailers and trucks to horse tack and equipment.

Special events such as the Magnificent Seven All-Around Stock Horse
Championship and the Annual Western States Expo Horse Sale (in it’s
tenth year) have long been a keystone of the expo. That tradition
continues at this, the 12th annual Horse Expo as it hosts the Alltech
Mini Games. The Mini Games will be a two-hour, all-discipline
performance with Olympic medalists and top competitors from every
competitive equine field.

The 2010 Western States Horse Expo promises an unforgettable summer
experience for the whole family. With many new additions, you can
count on the expo to be packed with entertaining and educational
programming, along with 800 booths to shop for whatever your horse or
dog may desire…or the new horse your heart desires! Ticket information
and details on all the expo’s events can be found at www.horsexpo.com
.

About Western States Horse Expo

Western States Horse Expo is the premier gathering of horse people in
North America and over the past 12 years has established itself as the
gold standard of equine events. Held at the spacious Cal Expo in
beautiful Sacramento, California, the Western States offers something
for everyone.

Western States would like to thank the following sponsors: Alltech,
The Trailer Specialist, Boot Barn, Wrangler, Justin, Purina, Western
Horseman, Andis, Platinum Performance, Equine Insurance, Pyranha,
Mallard Creek, Larry Viegas Insurance, Holt, High Desert Livestock,
Barns by Harrah and Horseman’s News. For more info visit
www.horsexpo.com or call 1-800-352-2411.

Make Plans to Attend Western States Horse Expo and,Add a Little Whiney and Woof to Your Summer

Western States Horse Expo

For more info contact:
Miki Cohen
800-352-2411
miki@horsexpo.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Make Plans to Attend Western States Horse Expo and
Add a Little Whiney and Woof to Your Summer

Western States Horse Expo, the largest horse exposition in North
America has long offered horse lovers more to see and do in one spot
than any other venue in the country. Now, dog lovers can get in on the
action at the expo’s new Dog Pavilion which will debut at this year’s
event in Sacramento, California on June 11-13, 2010.

New in 2010, the Dog Pavilion will feature training seminars,
demonstrations, an adoption area and 300 shopping booths offering
items for the pampered pooch in your life ranging from blinged-out
collars and leashes to dog bowls and training aids.

Horseowners can look forward to three action-packed days of exciting
demonstrations by world-class clinicians, the Equine Dream Art Show
and shopping areas like “Rigs and Digs” and “The Ranch” that offer
everything from horse trailers and trucks to horse tack and equipment.

Special events such as the Magnificent Seven All-Around Stock Horse
Championship and the Annual Western States Expo Horse Sale (in it’s
tenth year) have long been a keystone of the expo. That tradition
continues at this, the 12th annual Horse Expo as it hosts the Alltech
Mini Games. The Mini Games will be a two-hour, all-discipline
performance with Olympic medalists and top competitors from every
competitive equine field.

The 2010 Western States Horse Expo promises an unforgettable summer
experience for the whole family. With many new additions, you can
count on the expo to be packed with entertaining and educational
programming, along with 800 booths to shop for whatever your horse or
dog may desire…or the new horse your heart desires! Ticket information
and details on all the expo’s events can be found at www.horsexpo.com
.

About Western States Horse Expo

Western States Horse Expo is the premier gathering of horse people in
North America and over the past 12 years has established itself as the
gold standard of equine events. Held at the spacious Cal Expo in
beautiful Sacramento, California, the Western States offers something
for everyone.

Western States would like to thank the following sponsors: Alltech,
The Trailer Specialist, Boot Barn, Wrangler, Justin, Purina, Western
Horseman, Andis, Platinum Performance, Equine Insurance, Pyranha,
Mallard Creek, Larry Viegas Insurance, Holt, High Desert Livestock,
Barns by Harrah and Horseman’s News. For more info visit
www.horsexpo.com or call 1-800-352-2411.

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.

COWBOY COMMUNITY SEEKS 300,000 ONE DOLLAR DONATIONS FOR NEW RODEO GROUNDS

Luke Logan, 7th generation Potter Valley cowboy, leads “Hollywood” down the trail

Raising funds “one buck at a time,” ranchers in Northern California's rural Potter Valley are preserving their working cowboy lifestyle with the creation of a new rodeo arena and community park—a year-round regional center for country recreation and cowboy skill-building

(Potter Valley, CA, December 18th 2009)— The cowboy community of Northern California’s Potter Valley is making an urgent call for donations to be used for the purchase of covered seating for spectators at the numerous events to be held annually at its new rodeo grounds. The roping, team penning and other ranching skills honed and showcased at the many events held here are used by local and visiting cowboys and cowgirls every day of their lives on working ranches. The need is immediate, as the seating must be installed in time for the 2010 Potter Valley Spring Festival & Rodeo, to be held over Memorial Weekend (May 29 – 31, 2010). The Festival Rodeo is a CCPRA (California Cowboys Pro Rodeo Association) sanctioned event. Any donations above and beyond the $300,000 needed for the covered seating will be used to build additional amenities including a covered all-weather arena, an RV camping area, stables for visiting horses, better pens and more.

Local farming and ranching families have worked hard, under the auspices of the Potter Valley Community Parks & Recreation organization, to purchase a 23-acre parcel of land, create a master plan and break ground on the new arena. The big dream: a year round regional center for country recreation and skill-building. Chutes and panels will be installed over several forthcoming volunteer weekends. Now the organization is racing the clock to buy and install seating for spectators. “Covered seating is our single biggest urgent expense,” said Clyde Blundell, Chairman of Potter Valley Community Parks and Recreation. “The old location was below an oak-studded hillside, so seating wasn't an issue. In this new valley floor location, we don't have the hill and we don't have the trees for shade,” he said.

Donor names will appear on a special Honor Roll on the Potter Valley Rodeo website. Contributions can be mailed to: Potter Valley Community Parks & Recreation Rodeo Fund, P.O. Box 68, Potter Valley, CA 95469. To donate equipment, building materials or services, direct queries to the same address, attn: Clyde Blundell. Donations are also accepted through Paypal at www.pottervalleyrodeo.com. 100% of contributions are tax deductible and are guaranteed to go directly to the rodeo grounds and related amenities. Potter Valley Community Parks & Recreation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

Getting To Know EquiFit's Equine Athletes: Lucas

Fifth in a Series

While we constantly hear about the lives and successes of top riders, less is known about their invaluable equine partners. Here is the next in a series to offer an inside look at the horses we are so proud to work with. We may know of classes they have won and titles they have been awarded, but their characters, quirks and traits are largely unknown to us, their adoring fans.

Lucas is a 15.3 hand, bay Hessian gelding. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in character and energy. He was purchased as a 5 year old by Peter Breakwell of New Zealand who carefully brought him up through the Jumper divisions. Lucas made his Grand Prix debut in the spring of 2008, and since then he and Breakwell have had many impressive wins and placings. These include a win in the $30,000 Ariat Grand Prix at Pebble Beach, 2nd place in the $30,000 June Classic Grand Prix at the Oaks, 2nd in the $20,000 Grand Prix at Woodside, 2nd in the $30,000 Pebble Beach I Grand Prix, and this past summer a win in the $40,000 Menlo Circus Club Grand Prix.

Breakwell describes Lucas as a very agreeable horse, saying "he doesn't take a lot of prep work at all. He's naturally careful, so I just have to listen to him and not over-face him in our classes. He shows me every day that he loves his job and wants to keep doing it for a long time."

Breakwell is an avid fan of EquiFit products. "I've always used front and hind T-Boots on Lucas, and he was one of the first horses to wear a prototype of the boot years ago. So we've definitely stuck with what works, and Lucas goes really well in the boots. We also use the T-Form Belly Guard Girth on Lucas as well," says Breakwell.

The Sacramento International Horse Show held in early November was Breakwell and Lucas's last show for the year, and the team will return to the show ring at HITS Thermal. EquiFit wishes them the best of luck during this upcoming winter circuit.

A genuine commitment to horses and riders drives EquiFit to seek new and better ways to help them perform and succeed at all levels. We are honored to be able to work with such amazing horses and to be part of these winning teams who represent EquiFit around the world. We wish them the best of luck and continued success both in and out of the show ring.

"How To De-Static Your Horse" - The new Horse Lover’s 2 Minute How-To Video from Bay Area Equestrian Network

In the winter dry air can cause static electricity to build up on furry coats even to the point of causing shocks. Sandy Smyth, Barn Manager of "Ride to Walk" http://www.ridetowalk.org, a therapeutic riding program in Lincoln, Ca gives great tips on how to avoid delivering that spooky shock!

Ride To Walk serves children with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, attention deficit disorder, head trauma and sensory processing challenges. Sadly, Ride To Walk is facing a severe financial challenge due to state budget cuts. If you can donate either money or time, please contact Sandy at ridetowalk@sbcglobal.net.

Bay Area Equestrian Network (BAEN) launched its informational video series in 2008 and now has dozens of free videos in its archives covering Horsemanship, Health Care, Training, Tack & Equipment, and Barn & Stable. A new high-definition video is uploaded every 1-2 weeks. The Horse Lover’s 2 Minute How-To Videos are produced exclusively for BAEN by Padma Video, a Bay Area video production company specializing in equestrian video.

To view this and other Horse Lover’s 2-Minute How-To Videos, please visit http://results.bayequest.info/2minvideo/. To learn more about BAEN’s video services for advertisers and web sites, please visit http://www.bayequest.info/static/advertop-padma-video.htm or write to video@bayequest.com.


About Bay Area Equestrian Network http://www.bayequest.com

Bay Area Equestrian Network (BAEN) is an on-line community where California equine businesses, organizations and consumers meet to buy, sell and exchange information. BAEN has served California since 1997, promoting the horse industry and helping horse enthusiasts find horses, products and services in their area.

DISCOVER UC DAVIS EXTENSION’S OUTDOOR EXPLORATION PROGRAMS

DAVIS, Calif. — Join fellow horse enthusiasts for dinner and learn about horsepacking adventure courses coming next summer. Instructor Craig London will present slides and photos that showcase horsepacking excursions of years past. This three-hour open house is for anyone interested in attending one of the two summer courses: Mustangs: A Living Legacy is a popular educational trek through the Pizona area of the Inyo National Forest and a great place to learn about mustangs and packing. Mountain Horsemanship: Veterinary Care and Horsepacking in the Wilderness is a deluxe pack trip in the High Sierras with expert instruction on wilderness horse care. The open house is Saturday, February 6, 6-9 p.m. on the UC Davis campus. The $25 enrollment fee includes dinner.

For more information, please call (800) 752-0881, (530) 757-8899 from Davis or Woodland, email extension@ucdavis.edu or visit our website.

http://extension.ucdavis.edu/beyond

UC Davis Extension, the continuing and professional education arm of UC Davis, is an internationally recognized leader in educational outreach for individuals, organizations, and communities. UCDE serves lifelong learners both locally and globally, with more than 60,000 annual enrollments in classroom and online university-level courses.

Bay Area Equestrian Network Presents: The Horse Lover’s 2 Minute How-To Video "How To Empower A Child"

Ride To Walk is a therapeutic horseback riding program located in Lincoln, CA. Its mission is to enhance the lives of children and young adults with neurological disabilities by providing innovative therapeutic horseback riding activities that are recreational in nature and adapted to the individual's needs and disabilities. They serve children with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, attention deficit disorder, head trauma and sensory processing challenges.

Sadly, Ride To Walk is facing a severe financial challenge. They recently lost a major source of funding through Alta - a private nonprofit corporation working under contract with the California Department of Developmental Services; however, the California legislature has stated that the funding for such programs as Ride To Walk is being eliminated for at least a year because of state budget cuts. Without funding from Alta, Ride To Walk is having a very difficult time continuing to serve children with special needs. If you can donate either money or time, please contact Kris at ridetowalk@sbcglobal.net.

Also featured in this video is Kyla Vittek and her mother, Lisa, who founded "Cure for Kyla" (CureForKayla.com) and the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation. To help or get more info, contact Lisa at http://www.Myotonic.org.

Bay Area Equestrian Network (BAEN) launched its informational video series in 2008 and now has over 73 videos in its archives covering Horsemanship, Health Care, Training, Tack & Equipment, and Barn & Stable. A new high-definition video is uploaded every 1-2 weeks. The Horse Lover’s 2 Minute How-To Videos are produced exclusively for BAEN by Padma Video, a Bay Area video production company specializing in equestrian video.

To view this and other Horse Lover’s 2-Minute How-To Videos, please visit http://results.bayequest.info/2minvideo/. To learn more about BAEN’s video services for web sites, please visit http://www.bayequest.info/static/advertop-padma-video.htm or write to video@bayequest.com.


About Bay Area Equestrian Network http://www.bayequest.com

Bay Area Equestrian Network (BAEN) is an on-line community where California equine businesses, organizations and consumers meet to buy, sell and exchange information. BAEN was created in 1997 to promote the horse industry in Northern California and statewide, and to help horse enthusiasts find horses, products and services in their area

Nor Cal Medal Finals

New Location is Well Received & Medal Champions Crowned

A mainstay of the Northern California circuit, the Nor Cal Medal Finals Horse Show (Oct. 7-11) found a new venue for 2009. The show is a much-anticipated event with great courses and prizes, and this year featured a new location. Show Manager Adrian Ward moved his shows, including the Nor Cal Medal Finals to Leone Equestrians in Sacramento, CA. "I am really excited about the opportunities Rudy Leone’s facility offers and I feel I can make shows, like the Nor Cal Finals even better," said Ward of his decision to work out of a new facility.

Trainers seemed to agree with Ward’s decision. Nicole Bloom summed it up, "The Nor Cal Committee continues to strive to put on one of the best horse shows in Northern California, and this year was one of our best. The new facility, combined with a great management team and excellent hospitality really make it shine." Trainer Vanessa Brown appreciated the great prizes and incentives. "I love that Champions all received neck sashes this year, and trainers’ gifts included 8 x 10 photos from show photographer Jim Naismith.

The spotlight of the show were the four Nor Cal Medal Finals competitions.

Beverly Jovais’s student Grace McLaughlin took the Nor Cal 3’ Equitation Medal, winning both rounds with scores of 86 and 87. "Grace and her horse Santo were amazing from start to finish," says Jovais. "I was very proud of Grace's performance and her ability to perform under pressure. Thank you to the whole Chestnut Hill Team for all their hard work at the Nor Cal Finals Show." Jovais’ riders have enjoyed great success this year during the fall medal finals season, including top finishes in the CPHA Junior, PCHA Horsemanship, the CPHA Regionals, and the Woodside equitation championships.

In the Nor Cal Pony Medal Final, Valerie Van Der Linden came from behind after the first round to win the second round. A strong work off ride ensured the victory for the young rider aboard her pony, Count the Stars.

The Nor Cal Junior Medal Final was competitive and Mackenzie Drazan (Jenny Davis, trainer)

came ready to win. After winning the Woodside Junior Equitation Championship two weeks earlier, Drazan proved she was a strong competitor. After the first round she was in second, and then she moved up to first in the second round. Not only did she win the prestigious Final, but she also won the PCHA Horsemanship Medal 14 & Under, Equitation Over Fences 13 & Under Championship, and the Equitation Flat for Riders 12 to 13.

Drazan’s sister Shelby also had a very successful show, winning the Nor Cal Pony Medal, Childs Pony Hunters Under Saddle and Children's Pony Hunters, as well as first and second in the $1000 Pony Hunter Classic and $50 Medium Pony Hunters Under Saddle.

Jan Humphrey led the victory gallop in the Nor Cal Senior Final (Rudy Leone, trainer) aboard her sister Jill’s horse. Adrienne Dixon (Buddy & Vanessa Brown, trainers) did double duty at the show in both the equitation and the jumpers. She finished sixth in the Nor Cal Senior Final only a few weeks after her stellar victory in the Foxfield Finals. Blue was her color of choice in the jumper ring. Dixon and PomPom were champions in the Junior/Amateur Owner Jumpers and won the Junior/Amateur Owner Classic. This past summer Dixon was part of the silver medal Zone 10 NAJYR team. Of her student’s success Brown said, "She hasn't had much chance to ride her jumpers recently due to the difficulty of balancing school and riding in various equitation finals so her consistency in the jumper ring this week was particularly nice to see."

Brown had several other students in the various Nor Cal Finals, including 14-year-old Ali Cornish, who finished fourth aboard Van Gogh, a 17.1 hand seven-year-old Dutch Warmblood she has been riding for two years. "She is one of the most talented young riders we have ever worked with," says Brown. "Her mother, Tina, has put an exemplary foundation on her. Ali is not only blessed with incredible feel, but shows a work ethic rare for her age. She takes care of her own horse and does all the work on and off of him herself."

Cornish recalls, "I really enjoyed the Nor Cal Medal Finals. I loved the courses and how they were really challenging, yet set with many options. My trainer, Vanessa, and I decided to go with the bolder and positive ride, since my horse has a giant stride it worked out well. Everything on course connected together, so our thought for the show was that it was very important that no matter what happened, I kept riding the horse underneath me and the course ahead of me. With that in mind the courses were really fun, and the show turned out great. I couldn't be happier with my horse or ride."

In addition to the medal finals, the show featured a full complement of classes, sections, and divisions, with numerous championships awarded throughout the week. Nicole Bloom’s Round Meadow Farm brought eleven horses to the show. One of them was Jessica Tali and her horse Gameboy, who were champions in both the Modified Junior Amateur Hunters and Junior Hunters, and third in the Junior/Amateur Owner Hunter Classic.

Fourteen year old Tali said of the show, "I thought it was a great experience and very enjoyable. I always look forward to going to Nor Cal because it's such a great show. It is a good learning experience when you get to watch some of the great riders compete in the big classes. I especially enjoy the fun events they have at night such as the barbeque, where you get the chance to socialize and meet other riders and trainers. I always enjoy the Nor Cal horseshow and can't wait for it to come again next year!"

Bloom adds, "This was her first outing in the Junior Hunter ring, so obviously, we were elated with her results. She is a hard working student and has ridden with me for nine years. She was the winner of the Nor Cal Pony Medal Finals in 2005 and was second in the Nor Cal Three foot Finals in 2008. Jessica hopes to be a professional when she is older and has her eye on the Grand Prix ring, but for now is hoping to continue her winning streak in the hunter rings." In keeping with her goal to be a professional, Tali just completed the west coast regional of the USHJA EAP Level 2 Clinic with Bernie Traurig.

Bloom also coached two riders to top ten finishes in the Nor Cal Senior Final. Laura Hansen and Catherine Harvey placed fifth and seventh respectively.

Kelly Van Vleck, who is based nearby took many horses and students to the show as well. She too had riders in the Nor Cal Junior Final. Michelle Catchot of Rancho Murieta rode her horse Terranova to sixth place overall and Morgan Finegan of Sacramento and her horse Mossimo were ninth place overall. "This is Michelle's first year jumping 3'6" and Morgan has only owned her horse for about four months," said Van Vleck of her students’ strong showing.

"I found the Tanya Johnson clinic that Kelly Van Vleck recently set up for her riders extremely helpful," says Catchot. "Before I entered the ring, I took deep breaths, let everything go and once I entered the ring I just rode."

Kendall Skreden and her horse Esperanto won several Junior Jumper classes. "They’re gearing up to try for the 2010 Young Riders Championships next year," said Van Vleck. Katie Harris and her horse Urvine were also successful in the 1.20 and 1.30 jumpers. "Urvine is a relatively new purchase for Katie," explained Van Vleck. "He is a fabulous young horse that did not learn to jump until a little over a year ago, and he is a total natural with the best attitude I have ever had in a horse."

Jayme Omand and her horse Apollo did their second show at 3' and were second the Nor Cal 3' Medal in their first try at that level. "Jayme is preparing to go to the Onondarka Medal Final," said Van Vleck. The Onondarka Final, hosted at the Los Angeles National is the pinnacle of a twelve and under rider’s equitation goals. Jayme’s mother, Diane, was a very successful Amateur Owner rider and she enjoys watching her daughter grow and develop in the sport she loves so much.

Course Designers Peter Grant and Peter Holmes were a hit with many of the competitors and trainers. "The courses in all the rings were fantastic!" said Vanessa Brown. "The Grand Prix ring was absolutely beautiful every day. Rudy has a spectacular array of fences and Peter Holmes used the materials in extremely creative ways."

Van Vleck agreed. "The courses at the show were fabulous in all four rings, a welcome change from many recent shows that I have attended. The Nor Cal Finals were technical and challenging without being too difficult. The main jumper ring had difficult, but rideable courses over beautiful jumps. I truly felt the week was great preparation for the big Southern California venues like the Oaks and Showpark. We used to go south and be overwhelmed with how much larger and more technical everything seemed to be but with the quality of this show we should go south far better prepared."

For the equitation ring, Jovais was equally complimentary, "The courses were flowing, combining lines, single jumps and bending lines where riders could show off their skills. The work-off included a trot fence, a hand gallop and a jump near the in-gate that all tested the riders’ abilities to lengthen and shorten their horses' strides. "

This was the first year that the Nor Cal Medal Finals took place at Leone Equestrians, and the rave reviews are pouring in. "The venue was beautiful," said Brown. "There was obvious attention to detail evident from the meticulous care of the footing and arenas to the cleanliness of the restrooms. Fresh sod and other aesthetic improvements were abundant and really dressed the place up" Together Adrian Ward and Rudy Leone have invested into upgrades for the venue. "I think it would be safe to say that Rudy and I have put about $400,000 into the facility to make it one of the best places to show," said Ward. Trainers and riders agreed that this year’s Nor Cal Medal Finals Horse Shows was one of the best in its more than thirty year history.

LEG Up News is supported by Norden Equine Worldwide, affiliated with Markel Insurance. Norden Equine Worldwide...Insurance that Goes the DistanceSM. http://www.nordenequine.com

Menlo Charity Horse Show Handy Hunter Class Receives Generous Donation from Diane Carney of Telluride Farm

Atherton, CA-July 29, 2009-The Menlo Charity Horse Show could never have predicted that one phone call placed to Diane Carney two years ago would have resulted in the donation of a set of jumps for their $5,000 Handy Hunter Take Your Own Line class August 6, 2009.

This is not the first time that these jumps which made their debut in 2007 in the very first High Performance Hunter Derby class at Canterbury Farm in Hampshire, Illinois have travelled to the West coast. These are the same jumps that were used in Las Vegas for the WCHR World Cup Hunter Challenge during the FEI World Cup Finals, and then again in 2008 during the HITS Thermal Hunter Derby.

When asked why she would make such a generous donation to a horse show halfway across the country, Carney replied "Geoff Teall had given my number to a member of the horse show committee two years ago, and when we spoke, I gave her my word that I would help support the show's efforts to move toward hosting a Hunter Derby in the future."

"The Menlo Charity Horse Show is a special addition to the hunter industry nationally, and if working their way to a derby is the goal, I want to help them. The distance (between Illinois and California) doesn't make it easy, but if we could get the jumps to Las Vegas for the World Cup we could get them to Menlo, and we did."

In addition to donating the jumps, Carney packed the delivery truck with fresh cut birch rails from Minnesota and Wisconsin, along with cedar boughs from Kentucky. These materials are rarely found in California, yet so reminiscent of hunt courses in other parts of the country. Carney also donated a full set of new jump cups, and absorbed the transportation costs to California as well.

The original concept for these handmade jumps began in 2007, when a group of Chicago professionals made the commitment to George Morris to hold at least one class that would bring his vision of "back to the future" to life. In order to do this, Carney enlisted the aid of jump maker Mike G. Puffer of Roscoe, Illinois. "We drew up some sketches, and the result was a course of jumps with larger than usual walls and white gates that did not require filler behind them. The original coops were identical to those found in the hunt field, but we have modified them now, so that the top of the coop detaches if necessary, to improve safety."

When Puffer was entrusted with the original project of building the inaugural set of Derby jumps in 2007, he donated his time to Carney for the project, all 45 days, 12 hours a day, that it took to construct the jumps by hand. An impressive feat when you take into account that Puffer supplies jumps for horse shows 33 weeks a year in the Chicago area. "When Diane came along and said she wanted these natural fences, it was great because I like being creative. I took what she envisioned, and made it a reality. I'm kind of quiet, so I get my satisfaction from people liking what I do."

28 year old Puffer has a small 30' X 60' workshop, but a huge storage area at Sporting Horses LLC, as well as 14 semitrailers on the road to keep up with the demand for his jumps. In addition Puffer works closely with Showplace Productions LLC in the Chicago area as well.

The generosity doesn't end with Carney and Puffer: Bobby Murphy from Lexington, Kentucky has donated his time to design the jump placement (as this is a take your own line class), Blue Ribbon Blankets has sponsored the $5,000 class, and The Back in the Day Trophy is donated by Dr. Larry Wolford DVM.

Betsy Glikbarg, Chairwoman of the Menlo Charity Horse Show expressed her gratitude by saying "I am very excited to see Diane jumps, I understand they are gorgeous. How lucky we are to be the recipient of her amazing generosity. We just wish she could come out to Menlo to see this!"

Menlo Charity Horse Show Website: http://www.menlohorseshow.com

To contact Mike G. Puffer mikegpuffer@aol.com or to see more of his work go to: http://www.showplaceproductions.com

Follow the Menlo Charity Horse Show on:

PhelpsSports.com http://www.phelpssports.com

Equestrian Life http://www.equestrianlife.com