Small Equines A Big Hit During Small World Showcase At SUCCEED® USET Holiday Gala Fundraiser

West Palm Beach, FL (January 6, 2010) – A group of little equines put on a big show at the SUCCEED® USET Holiday Gala Fundraiser in Wellington recently, treating spectators to a Small World Showcase featuring American Shetland Ponies and American Miniature Horses. The Holiday Gala, held at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, starred some of the biggest names in the equestrian world, offered fun demonstrations, team competitions, holiday surprises and silent and live auctions that raised money for the USET Foundation.

The Small World Showcase wowed the crowd with an array of Miniature Horses driving carriages, including United States National Four-In-Hand Combined Driving Champion Chester Weber who drove Santa Clause into the ring in a sleigh pulled by four perfectly matched miniature reindeer. The reindeer were actually Miniature Horses owned by Linda Kern of Caribbean Dreams Miniature Horses in Loxahatchee, Florida, and Santa Claus was none other than USEF President David O’Connor.

“The crowd was thrilled when Chester drove David O’Connor into the ring. Chester is always so supportive if the USET and it was great that he took time out of his busy schedule to attend the event. The Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies that took part in the gala were the talk of the town, it was a great event,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry (ASPC/AMHR).

In addition to the displays of carriages driven by minis, the 2009 Grand National Champion Classic Shetland Stallion Pan’s Phantom of the Opera also appeared. Bruce Ekstrom and Chuck McAllister, of Tuigpaarden Farm in Ocala, also did a driving presentation with two high stepping American Show Ponies. “Chuck’s ponies really wowed the crowd. The American Show Ponies created quite a buzz with all of their flash and high stepping,” Robb said.

Highlife Farms, home to World Class Sport Horses and one of the country’s most prominent breeding farms, donated a Miniature Horse named Highlife’s Silver Belle to the gala’s auction. The pinto mini filly raised $5,000 for the USET. “I believe in what the USET does and I am very supportive of their endeavors. I donated the mini filly to the auction to help with the fundraiser and the future of the USET,” said Joan Sims, owner of Highlife Farms in Orlando.

“The gala was a great place to introduce our small equines to a whole new audience we owe a special thanks to all the members of the ASPC/AMHR who participated with their small equines, including Linda Kern from Caribbean Dreams and the miniature members of the Florida Whip,” Robb said.

For more information on small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

New USDF President George Williams Featured In New Book On Small Equines

Wellington, FL (December 16, 2009) – The riding life of international dressage rider George Williams, the new President of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), is featured in a new book called The Big Book of Small Equines: A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies. (Skyhorse Publishing, $29.95 Hardcover). While Williams has been a leader in the U.S. dressage world for many years and has recently served as Vice President of the USDF, Williams began his illustrious career on the back of a Shetland Pony.

The beginning of Williams’s riding career is told in delightful form in The Big Book of Small Equines in the chapter titled, “They Started Small.” Williams’s first pony was a Shetland Pony named Mitzi and George recalls, “I would use a ladder to climb up on her rump to get on her.”

Mitzi was quite a character with a bad habit of unseating Williams while he was riding in the woods. “There was a point on the trail where she had her own ‘special’ path that she liked to take which had an especially low branch on it. She could easily fit under the branch, but if left no room for the rider,” Williams recalls in the book. “No matter how determined you were, you could not dissuade her from taking this path. Mitzi always waited on the other side of the branch for the rider to catch her and get back on. Despite this routine, I remember spending many enjoyable hours riding Mitzi.”

Mitzi passed away when Williams was only five years old, and the family bought a second Shetland Pony named Goldie. It was while riding Goldie that Williams began to dream about representing the United States as a dressage rider. “I was in Pony Club in 1964, and the district commissioner of our Pony Club held a mock Olympics in the spirit of the Mexico City Olympics. I chose to represent Mexico, and I proudly rode down the center line for my entrance. I halted at X, saluted, and Goldie seized that moment to put her head down and eat grass. I was unsuccessful in bringing her head up and unceremoniously burst into tears,” Williams recalls.

Williams went on to say that he was excused from the ring and to this day has no memory of how he eventually left the arena. “Needless to say, Mexico did not do well in those Olympics. But that experience with Goldie was the start of my dream to compete internationally for the United States. Part of my dream was realized nearly forty years later when I represented the United States in the 2003 World Cup in Gothenburg, Sweden, on the wonderful mare Rocher.”

Williams isn’t the only famous dressage rider featured in the book. New York Times bestselling author Tami Hoag, a dressage rider who makes her living writing suspense novels, also began her career on the back of a Shetland Pony. Hoag’s story is featured in the book, and the prolific writer also took time out from her busy schedule to write the foreward for the book.

The Big Book of Small Equines, A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies, by Johnny Robb and Jan Westmark, captures the charm and delight that small equines have brought to so many riders. The book is available online at Skyhorse Publishing, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. It is also available in bookstores throughout the country.

American Miniature Horse Registry Submits Recognized Breed Application

By Lori Nelson

The American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) has submitted an application to become a Recognized Breed Association with United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) in accordance with Bylaw 222. Pursuant to said Bylaw, USEF may only recognize one national breed/discipline association for each breed or discipline whose competition rules are included in the USEF Rule Book.

If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact Lori Nelson, Assistant Executive Director of National Affiliates by e-mail at (lnelson@usef.org).

If you have any comments regarding this application, you may submit such comments by March 1, 2010. Comments may be sent by fax (859-231-6662), by mail (United States Equestrian Federation, Inc., 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511) or by e-mail to Lori Rawls, Executive Director of USEF (lrawls@usef.org).

Highlife Farms Donates Miniature Horse

To SUCCEED® and Wellington Classic Dressage USET Holiday Gala Fundraiser

West Palm Beach, FL (December 10, 2009) – Highlife Farms, home to World Class Sport Horses and one of the country’s most prominent breeding farms, has donated a Miniature Horse to the SUCCEED® and Wellington Classic Dressage USET Holiday Gala Fundraiser. The Holiday Gala will be held at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on December 11 & 12, and will feature a live and silent auction as well as some of the biggest names in the equestrian world.

“The Holiday Gala is going to be a really exciting event. I believe in what the USET does and I am very supportive of their endeavors. I donated the mini filly to the auction to help with the fundraiser and the future of the USET,” said Joan Sims, owner of Highlife Farms in Orlando.

The pinto mini filly, Highlife’s Silver Belle, will be part of the live auction on Saturday evening. The Holiday Gala will also feature a combination of clinics, fun demonstrations, team competitions and holiday surprises.

It will be an exciting weekend for Sims, who will not only help raise money for the USET by auctioning off the mini filly, but will also watch Olympic dressage rider Lisa Wilcox ride Highlife Farm’s Der Euro, a 1998 Oldenburg gelding (Don Schufro/Waldroeschen/Wanderer), famous winner of the 2002 Bundeschampionate, in the Wellington Classic Holiday Challenge. “Lisa’s assistant, Jessica Kozel, will be riding Der Euro’s full brother, Der Dollar, in the show also,” Sims said, adding that said she is looking forward to watching Wilcox and Der Euro in the upcoming year. “Lisa and Der Euro are a horse and rider combination that I am hoping will compete at the 2010 World Equestrian Games.”

The Holiday Gala will feature well-known equestrians such as Lynn Palm, Monty Roberts, Combined Driver Chester Weber and bestselling suspense author Tami Hoag, who will be signing books during both evenings. The entire program will take place on the evening of Friday, December 11th and then repeat in full the evening of December 12. The live and silent auctions will be held on Saturday evening.

For more information on the USET Holiday Gala, visit the SUCCEED website at www.succeedevent.com. For more information on Highlife Farms, visit their website at www.highlifefarms.com

A Miniature Horse Brings Maximum Happiness For One "Driving For Surviving" Participant

FAR HILLS, NJ-November 24, 2009- It was through a mixture of determination, persistence and generosity on behalf of the equestrian community that one participant of sharingVillage's Driving for Surviving program was given one of the largest gifts of happiness in one of its smallest packages - a miniature horse named Ranger.

The story unfolded when six-time Olympic dressage rider Robert Dover befriended seventeen-year Driving for Surviving participant Gary Johnson at the National Dressage Championships in Gladstone, NJ.

Inclement weather forced the cancelation of a Driving for Surviving exhibition drill at the Championships, in which Gary was to participate. In lieu of performing, the participants were invited to the USET trophy room to watch the day's dressage competition. It was there that Johnson and Dover stuck up a conversation that would forever change each of their lives. It was Johnson's enthusiasm, wisdom and overall positive attitude that ultimately won-over Dover's heart.

"The minute you meet him and learn his story, you see that he's all smiles and thankful for what he has and for having horses in his life. You have to help a person like that," said Dover, who was reunited with Johnson at sharingVillage'sThe Pediatric Oncology Equestrian Carriage Driving Program's annual Human Spirit Award Luncheon in Gladstone, NJ, in October.

After hearing of the loss of Johnson's beloved driving pony, Boxcar Willie, who had been donated by international four-in-hand driver Jimmy Fairclough and his family, Dover spearheaded a mission to find Johnson a new partner.

Dover was helped by several members of the equestrian community including Mary Phelps of DressageDaily.com, Maureen Pethick and the United States Equestrian Federation, and Johnny Robb and the American Miniature Horse Registry/American Shetland Pony Club who donated Johnson's new pony Ranger, to the Driving for Surviving program.

"Without the immense help and support that the equestrian community showed toward Driving for Surviving and toward Gary himself, this would not have been possible," said Shelley Zlotkin of sharingVillage. "This is a perfect example of all the great work that can be done when people come together and unite for a cause."

Such is the mission of sharingVillage, a 501c3 not-for-profit New Jersey corporation dedicated to helping child and adult survivors of life threatening illness and their families by providing the tools needed to understand and cope with the challenges of living with illness. Driving for Surviving is a program designed for children who have been diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening illness. All services are provided free of charge.

Today, Johnson and Ranger are driving together and looking forward to the years to come. Johnson is excited to continue his showing career with Ranger, and is especially grateful to all those who helped unite him with his new partner.

"We are so thankful to everyone who helped make this dream come true for Gary," said Zlotkin. "With the holiday season approaching we hope that others will consider the dreams of our young terminally ill participants and help them through gifts to sharingVillage.

"We could never accomplish what we do without our small community supporters like Tewksbury Trail Association and our large supporters such as Ronald McDonald House Charities of the New York Tri- State Area and WineLibrary.com."

Further information on sharingVillage and the opportunity to donate ponies or miniature horses to the Driving for Surviving program is available on line at www.sharingVillage.org, by email at office@sharingVillage.org or by calling 908-234-0334.

Yearling Filly Wins Vetrolin Grooming Award From Farnam at American Miniature Horse Registry National Championships

Tulsa, Okla. (November 17, 2009) – Chasta Harrison and her Miniature Horse Curry’s Saturday Night Special proved they were special at the 2009 American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) National Championship Show when Harrison’s filly won the Vetrolin Grooming Award, sponsored by Farnam. Winning the title of “Best Groomed” horse at the show earned Curry’s Saturday Night Special and Harrison a year’s supply of Vetrolin® Grooming Products provided by Farnam.

“My mom and I do all our own grooming so it is really exciting to win the Vetrolin Grooming Award,” Harrison said. “We are perfectionists when it comes to grooming. We are strict on color; we want the white to be white.”

Harrison, who lives in Heber Springs, Arkansas, has over 20 minis on her Mini h Farm. Curry’s Saturday Night Special was one of three minis she took to the National Championships. “She is a strawberry roan sabino filly,” Harrison said, in describing the filly’s beautiful coloring.

Harrison recently graduated from Arkansas Tech University and is hoping to attend vet school. “We already use Vetrolin® shampoo and conditioner on our minis and I am really looking forward to trying the other Vetrolin® products,” Harrison said. “I have heard so many great things about the detangler and I can’t wait to try it.”

The Vetrolin® brand offers a comprehensive line of grooming products from cleaning and conditioning to soothing and invigorating; Vetrolin® products perform to the highest standard. Vetrolin® products are renowned for the essential oils and invigorating aroma that sets them apart from the competition. The ten products in the Vetrolin® line provide a one-stop place to satisfy all your grooming needs and includes bath, body wash, conditioner, detangler, green spot out, shine, liniment and liniment gel products, plus the newest additions to the Vetrolin® line: White ‘N Brite™ Shampoo and White ‘N Brite™ Body Wash.

“The American Miniature Horse Registry is really pleased that Farnam, the makers of Vetrolin® products, supports our small equines and we are very grateful that they sponsor the Vetrolin Grooming Award,” said Johnny Robb, director of marketing for the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry (ASPC/AMHR). “The National Championship Show brings out the best minis in the country and the competition for Best Groomed was at an all time high.”

In addition to the Grooming Award, the AMHR National Championship featured more than 5,000 entries from all around the country competing in over 300 classes. For more information on American Miniature Horses, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044. For more information regarding Vetrolin® products, visit www.farnamhorse.com.

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th

Orlando, FL (October 21, 2009) – Members of the American Shetland Pony Club, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Show Pony Registry (ASPC/AMHR/ASPR) will reap the rewards for a successful year and plan for 2010 at the small equine organization’s upcoming annual convention. Supporters of the versatile and popular small equine breeds will meet in Orlando, Florida, November 5-7.

The ASPC/AMHR/ASPR are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. “Despite a shaky economy, small equines have continued to grow in numbers throughout the country. Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show these remarkable breeds,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “Our annual convention helps us stay focused and continue to grow and promote the greatest little equines in America.”

Thanks to M & D Printing all convention attendee will be treated to a VIP evening at the Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre, home to Tap Dance Kidd (Dancer) a three-time Grand National Champion American Shetland Pony. In an effort to keep Shetlands and Miniatures in the spotlight, the ASPC/AMHR donated Dancer to Arabian Nights as the first-ever ambassador of the breed to appear at the popular attraction.

“Arabian Nights is also home to a black Shetland Pony that plays the role of ‘Little Black’ in the Black Stallion Literacy Program. Formerly named Brush Creek’s Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois,” Robb said, adding that in the last decade the Club and its members have taken a proactive role in keeping their small equines in the public eye.

The American Shetland Pony Club and the American Miniature Horse Registry recently held their national championship shows, with thousands of the finest Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses from around the country competing for top money and big prizes. During the annual convention, the club will recognize top breeders, competitors and national All Star and Hall of Fame winners.

Started in 1888, the American Shetland Pony Club is one of the oldest equine registries in the United States. Incorporated in 1972, the American Miniature Horse Registry was first the registry for Miniature Horses in the United States and continues to be one of the foremost organizations committed to the preservation and promotion of these small equines. For more information on the annual convention, or small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th

Orlando, FL (October 21, 2009) – Members of the American Shetland Pony Club, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Show Pony Registry (ASPC/AMHR/ASPR) will reap the rewards for a successful year and plan for 2010 at the small equine organization’s upcoming annual convention. Supporters of the versatile and popular small equine breeds will meet in Orlando, Florida, November 5-7.

The ASPC/AMHR/ASPR are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. “Despite a shaky economy, small equines have continued to grow in numbers throughout the country. Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show these remarkable breeds,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “Our annual convention helps us stay focused and continue to grow and promote the greatest little equines in America.”

Thanks to M & D Printing all convention attendee will be treated to a VIP evening at the Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre, home to Tap Dance Kidd (Dancer) a three-time Grand National Champion American Shetland Pony. In an effort to keep Shetlands and Miniatures in the spotlight, the ASPC/AMHR donated Dancer to Arabian Nights as the first-ever ambassador of the breed to appear at the popular attraction.

“Arabian Nights is also home to a black Shetland Pony that plays the role of ‘Little Black’ in the Black Stallion Literacy Program. Formerly named Brush Creek’s Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois,” Robb said, adding that in the last decade the Club and its members have taken a proactive role in keeping their small equines in the public eye.

The American Shetland Pony Club and the American Miniature Horse Registry recently held their national championship shows, with thousands of the finest Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses from around the country competing for top money and big prizes. During the annual convention, the club will recognize top breeders, competitors and national All Star and Hall of Fame winners.

Started in 1888, the American Shetland Pony Club is one of the oldest equine registries in the United States. Incorporated in 1972, the American Miniature Horse Registry was first the registry for Miniature Horses in the United States and continues to be one of the foremost organizations committed to the preservation and promotion of these small equines. For more information on the annual convention, or small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

Miniature Horses Win Big At Nationals After Training At The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center

Ocala, FL (October 13, 2009) – Four Miniature Horses are swimming in success after training and conditioning at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center. The minis, owned by Bob Rutledge of Candyland Miniatures in Ocala, Florida, swam in The Sanctuary’s horse size swimming pool three times a week before competing in the American Miniature Horse Registry’s National Championships.

“Our four minis that swam and trained at The Sanctuary were both National and Reserve National Champions and all finished in the Top 10 in all of their classes,” Rutledge said. “We are so pleased with the results that we had with the pool at The Sanctuary that we are thinking of putting in a pool at our farm.”

Rutledge said his goal with taking his minis to The Sanctuary was to get them in the best physical shape possible prior to the show. The minis, all of which are 34” or under, swam three times a week in the state-of-the-art pool that is 110 feet long and 14 feet deep. The swimming helped condition their hips and toplines.

“Swimming is a different form of exercise than what horses get on the ground. There is no fear of leg or joint injuries with swimming. It either helps horses recover from an injury or it works as exercise for maintaining physical condition,” said Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary.
Rutledge’s winning mini’s, who competed in the halter division at the National Championships held in Oklahoma, were: Candyland’s Secret Weapon, a two-year-old buckskin pinto stallion; Candyland’s Spunky Girl, a two-year-old chestnut pinto filly and 2008 World Champion Jr. Filly; Candyland’s Pattoned Payday, a three-year-old chestnut gelding and 2008 World Champion Jr. Gelding; and Briarwood’s Happy Illusion, a five-year-old Appaloosa stallion.
“I am so pleased with The Sanctuary and I highly recommend it to anyone showing horses,” Rutledge said. “Even if we put in a pool at our farm we will continue to use The Sanctuary for therapy and the other equipment they have.”
The Sanctuary, which is committed to the healing, conditioning and well being of equines and canines, features advanced conditioning and rehab equipment including an Equine Hyperbaric Chamber with box stall type freedom of movement, as well as an Aqua Pacer Water Treadmill, the safest, most effective water treadmill available. The center also features: a Cold Saltwater Leg Spa featuring 34 degree, highly salinated water for all types of leg therapy; an Equine Swimming Pool – a 110 foot long, 14 foot deep inline pool with therapeutic water; a 5/8 mile race track; two Eurocisers with therapeutic tracking surface - one under cover and one outdoors; Solariums; Temperature-controlled veterinary inspection area with semi-surgical lighting, and rubberized surfaces in most areas.

For more information on The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, visit their website atwww.sanctuaryequinerehab.com. To learn more about Miniature Horses, visit the AMHR website at www.shetlandminiature.com.

Three Youth Win American Miniature Horses Through National Championship Essay Contest

Tulsa, OK (October 1, 2009) – Three deserving youth fulfilled their dreams of owning their own American Miniature Horse by winning the Youth Essay Contest at the 2009 annual American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) National Championship Show. Jennifer Wippler, Mackenzie Schulte and Kevin Byers all entered the Youth Essay Contest at the National Championship and took home an adorable donated mini at the end of the show.

Wippler won a 2008 mini yearling named Cross Country Made in America, donated by Belinda Bagley of Cross Country Shetlands. “I love horses of all kinds, but Miniature Horses are my favorite,” Wippler wrote in her essay. “The reason I want this Miniature Horse is so I can train him myself. I plan to train him to drive, jump and do obstacle.”

Bagley, who donated Wippler’s winning mini, is a judge, director, trainer and breeder, and has donated a mini for the Youth Essay Contest for the past five years. "There have been times when I have been judging a show and wished I could just give all the youth competitors a horse," Bagley said. "Through this program I can do that and also know that when the youth compete they will have high quality horses.”

Schulte also won a mini donated by Bagley, a 2008 mini yearling named Cross Country Mr. Downtown. Schulte, who has Cartilage Hair Hyperplasia, otherwise known as dwarfism, said she likes spending time with Miniature Horses because they are just her size. In her essay, Schulte wrote, “So far I have not had the chance to raise a Miniature Horse, but I would love and cherish the opportunity to do so. Winning this mini would give me the opportunity to show the world what I can do when given the right resources.”

Cathy Buehrer, of Amazing Sonrise Miniature Horses, donated the mini that Byers won, a two-year-old silver buckskin gelding named Amazing Sonrise Call Him Majestic. “Donating a mini is a great way for me to support our youth and encourage them to show,” Buehrer said, adding that the mini she donated came from a great show background including a sire with National Championship titles. “Majestic was shown as a yearling, and we sent his show halter along with him as an added encouragement to show. This is also a great way to emphasis to the youth that they are being offered quality show animals for their essay efforts.”

In addition to the Youth Essay Contest, the AMHR National Championship featured more than 5,000 entries from all around the country competing in over 300 classes. For more information on American Miniature Horses, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call 309-712-1195.

Miniature Horse Wins Aurora BayCare Medical Center’s 2009 Pet Therapy “Spirit of Planetree” Award

Green Bay, Wisconsin (September 16, 2009) – Thanks to her positive work and patient ways, Rosie, an American Miniature Horse who lives with her owner Sue Binsfeld in Wisconsin, recently won the 2009 Pet Therapy “Spirit of Planetree” Award at Aurora BayCare Medical Center. Rosie, a two-year-old mini who wears pink booties when she visits the hospital, was chosen for the award because of her contributions to the hospital’s patients and caregivers.

Owner Binsfeld was thrilled with Rosie’s win. “I feel very honored to have been nominated, but to win was amazing,” Binsfeld said. Each year, hospitals such as Aurora BayCare Medical Center who are members of the Planetree organization, submit human and animal "Spirit of Planetree" award nominations for the positive work they do and patient care they provide.

“Rosie continues to make a difference in many people’s lives,” Binsfeld said. “It is truly astounding and amazing to see Rosie at work. She has an uncanny ability to read people and to know who needs her to be at her best. Her patience with the patients is something I myself am in awe of.”

Binsfeld and Rosie began their partnership over the summer, when she bought the adorable mini from Anne and Colette Stoflet. “I knew Rosie would be perfect for Pet Therapy work and given that she is only two years old I am confident that we will have many years to look forward to,” Binsfeld said, adding that Rosie also visits nursing homes and makes house calls.

Planetree, the organization responsible for Rosie’s award, focuses on providing patient centered care. In order to provide this care, programs and policies such as no visiting hours, aromatherapy, message therapy, medical charts open to the patients, pet therapy, and much more, are adopted at a facility.

For more information on American Miniature Horses, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

Miniature Swimmers Make Waves at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center

Ocala, FL (September 10, 2009) – Four tiny miniature horses are making a big splash at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center as they get in shape for the AMHR National Championships this September in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The four Miniature Horses, owned by Bob Rutledge of Candyland Miniatures in Ocala, Florida, are all under 34” but that hasn’t stopped them from getting in shape by using and enjoying the horse size swimming pool.

“I have been bringing them to The Sanctuary three times a week to swim in the pool and they love it,” Rutledge said. “My Miniatures will travel to the AMHR National Championships in September to compete in halter, driving and jumping, so being in the best physical shape is important.”

Rutledge said having his minis swim in the state-of-the-art pool, which is 110 feet long and 14 feet deep, is helping them to condition their hips and toplines. Despite their tiny size, the minis have no problem completing four laps each and seem to love the experience.

Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary, said adding swimming to their regime complements Rutledge’s training program by adding an exercise that has no concussion. “Swimming is a different form of exercise than what horses get on the ground. There is no fear of leg or joint injuries with swimming,” McDuffee said. “The Sanctuary is committed to the healing, conditioning and well-being of all equine athletes and swimming horses serves a two-fold purpose: it either helps horses recover from an injury or it works as exercise for maintaining physical condition.”

The minis swimming as part of their training and conditioning program are Candyland’s Secret Weapon, a two-year-old buckskin pinto stallion; Candyland’s Spunky Girl, a two-year-old chestnut pinto filly and 2008 World Champion Jr. Filly; Candyland’s Pattoned Payday, a three-year-old chestnut gelding and 2008 World Champion Jr. Gelding; and Briarwood’s Happy Illusion, a five-year-old Appaloosa stallion.

“The Sanctuary’s facility is phenomenal and the staff is just great to work with. I have had full-size horses swim before but this is the first time I have taken the minis,” Rutledge said. “Swimming is a great exercise because it is a cardiovascular and aerobic workout that helps build muscle mass and definition.”

The Sanctuary’s state-of-the-art facility is located on 30 acres in Ocala, and features the most advanced conditioning and rehab equipment available in the world including an Equine Hyperbaric Chamber, Aqua Pacer Water Treadmill, a Cold Saltwater Leg Spa, an Equine Swimming Pool, two Eurocisers and Solariums.

For more information on The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, visit their website at www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com. The AMHR National Championships will determine the nation’s top Miniature Horses and be held at the Expo Square Arena in Tulsa, Oklahoma, September 10-19th. To learn more about the show, or Miniature Horses, visit the AMHR website at www.shetlandminiature.com.

Nothing Small About This Miniature Show!

American Miniature Horse Registry National Championships Expecting Big Turnout In Tulsa

Tulsa, OK (August 24, 2009) – Small equines from all across the country are preparing for a big event – the 2009 annual American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) National Championship Show. The show will determine the nation’s top Miniature Horses and be held at the Expo Square Arena in Tulsa, Oklahoma, September 10 -19th.

“Miniature Horses are big fun for adults and children, so despite a tough economy the show committee is still expecting more than 5,000 entries,” said Johnny Robb, AMHR Marketing Director. “The show is the highlight of the year and classes run in the day and evening. As in the past, it is free and spectators are welcome throughout the show.”

The AMHR National Championship Show offers close to 300 classes for Miniature Horses to enter. Competitions in halter, driving, jumping, costume, youth classes and more stir the crowd as they cheer on their favorites. And with over $50,000 in cash and prizes in championship and futurity classes the atmosphere is one of high stakes and high spirits.

AMHR Miniature Horses may compete in one of two divisions. Division “A” Miniatures must stand at 34” and under, while Division “B” Miniatures must measure under 38”. Youth members will also have a chance to compete in the Youth Essay contest to win a free Miniature Horse while all the Miniature Horses attending will have a chance to compete for the Vetrolin® Grooming Award. The 2009 Vetrolin Grooming Award, sponsored by Farnam, will be awarded to the “Best Groomed” Miniature Horse at the show. The winner will receive a year’s supply of Vetrolin Grooming Products.

“The exciting array of classes, combined with the multiple shopping opportunities at the mini-mall make this an event not to be missed,” said Robb. “Each year more horse lovers and families come to enjoy the show. And once they come they are hooked on our little horses.”

Admission is free and classes run all day and into the evening. There is food, shopping and lots of big fun with small horses. So mark your calendars to attend the AMHR National Championship Show held at the Expo Square Arena in Tulsa, Oklahoma, September 10-19th.

For more information about the AMHR National Championship Show visit www.shetlandminiature.com under Events or call 309-263-4044.

The American Shetland Pony Club Celebrates Versatile Ponies at Shetland Pony Congress Show

Cloverdale, IN (July 7,2009) – The best Shetland Ponies from across the nation will descend on Cloverdale, Indiana, July 28 – August 1, for the 121st Shetland Pony Congress Show. The versatile ponies will have a chance to compete for National Championship titles in driving, halter, jumping, youth classes, costume classes and more.

The prestigious Shetland Pony Congress will be held at the Crossroads Arena facility, where spectators are invited to enjoy an array of exciting favorite Shetland Congress classes, from fast paced roadster driving to the spectacular and inventive costume classes. Admission is free and spectators are invited to learn more about American Shetland Ponies while at the show.

“The Shetland Pony Congress Show is a wonderful way to experience all this amazing breed has to offer,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry (ASPC/AMHR). “Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show Shetland Ponies. This show will give spectators a wonderful chance to see the ponies in action and see how versatile Shetland Ponies truly are.”

The ASPC recognizes many types of Shetlands, and all will be competing at the show. Types of ponies recognized are the Classic Shetland Pony, the Foundation Shetland Pony, the Modern Shetland Pony, the American Show Pony and the National Show Pony.

Competition in the American Show Pony division will be steep, as the registry has added $6,000 in incentive prize money for classes at the Congress show. American Show Ponies are sought after as impressive athletes and are a crowd favorite when they drive into the show ring.

Farnam Companies, a long-time supporter of small equines, will again sponsor the Vetrolin Grooming Awards. The “best groomed” pony will receive a year’s supply of Vetrolin grooming products provided by Farnam Companies.

“The show is great fun for the whole family and we encourage everyone to come out to meet the small but mighty Shetland Ponies,” Robb said. “Mark your calendars for July 28 to August 1 and plan on attending the American Shetland Pony Congress.”

For more information on the Shetland Pony Congress, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

Farnam’s Platform® Feed Renews Sponsorship with American Shetland Pony Club & American Miniature Horse Registry for 2009

Morton, IL – Bigger isn’t always better according to owners of American Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses who instead prefer that their equine companions come in smaller size packages. That’s why owners of small equines appreciate Farnam Companies, Inc., a company that focuses on small equines.

 

Farnam Companies, Inc. has renewed its sponsorship with the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry for 2009 as part of their continued commitment to supporting the needs of small equines. Farnam’s Platform® Miniature Horse and Pony Feed is specially formulated for the more efficient digestive systems of the miniature horse and pony to help reduce nutritionally-related problems such as obesity and has been well received by the small equine market.

 

In addition, Farnam developed the SuperMask® Miniature Horse Fly Mask which is available in two sizes and three styles for small equines. “The products that Farnam has developed for small equines are really beneficial and the ASPC and AMHR are thrilled that Farnam will continue our mutually beneficial agreement in 2009,” said ASPC/AMHR Marketing Director Johnny Robb. “The development of the feed and the fly masks filled a void in the market and owners of small equines across the country have come to rely on Farnam as a leader in the small equine industry.”

 

Farnam will also sponsor the Vetrolin Grooming Awards program that the company instituted with the ASPC and AMHR three years ago. “We recognize that Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse markets are an important segment and are pleased to be able to support them again in 2009,” said Heather Hoff, senior vice president of Farnam Horse Products.

 

“Farnam has supported the ASPC/AMHR national shows since 2006, the partnership is a natural fit.” ASPC/AMHR Director of Operations Zona Schneider explains. “The American Shetland Pony Club has been in existence for over 120 years and Farnam has been a leader in the horse care industry for more than 60 years, so we are especially pleased that these two industry icons are working together.”

 

For more information visit www.shetlandminature.com and www.farnamhorse.com.

 

Isabelle Leibler Wins FEI Pony Class and American Shetland Pony Club Award

Wellington, FL – Isabelle Leibler and her German Sport Pony, Going West, won the FEI Pony Individual class at the ESP Wellington Dressage show recently, and the pair also rode away with special recognition from the American Shetland Pony Club (ASPC). Leibler, who trains with Lars Petersen, won the class with a score of 63.474%.

 

Leibler, who just started in the FEI division, purchased her pony five years ago in Europe. Her mother, Rene Leibler, said she believes ponies are ideal for children in dressage. "On ponies they are able to feel the impulsion and learn the movements on an appropriate sized mount," she said.

 

While her mom was proud of her daughter's win on the 11-year-old pony, so was Leibler's dad. "I was thrilled to watch her ride at this exciting venue," said Guy Leibler, who was on hand to watch his daughter win.

 

Leibler's class at the ESP Wellington Dressage show was recoginized by the ASPC as the breed registry continually supports ponies that compete. The ASPC registers Classic Shetland Ponies, Modern Shetland Ponies and American Show Ponies.

The newest small equine recognized by the ASPC is the National Show Pony. National Show Ponies are required to have one purebred Shetland or AMHR Miniature Horse parent and can measure up to a full 14.2 hands at the wither. 

These larger National Show Ponies enable children to enjoy riding a pony with Shetland attributes longer. For more information on Shetland Ponies, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com.