equine journal (march 2014)

EQJMG_140300_180.inddSUMMER CAMP CONSIDERATIONS
Meet the Mustang
EquineJournal March 2014
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4 EQUINE JOURNAL | March 2014
March 2014 | equineJournal.com 5
EquineJournal
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About Our Contest Sponsor Metlar LLC is the North American distributor for Neue Schule Bits. Neue Schule offers an extensive range of high performance, superior comfort bits that are ergonomically designed, using the latest in computer aided design (CAD) technologies and incorporate a unique metal alloy that promotes acceptance and
Prize Description This month’s contest winner will receive a Neue Schule Verbindend Bit Looking at the Verbindend is like looking at the anatomy of a horse’s mouth. This amazing bit is designed to create a channel for the horse’s tongue to lie in, allowing the horse to soften and relax in the contact. Like all Neue Schule bits the Verbindend is made out of Salox® Gold metal alloy which offers the highest thermal conductivity and is sized in ¼’ increments for a perfect
About Our Contest Sponsor
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contents
features 40 Beyond the Classroom
Equine professionals reflect on what they learned from riding in college. BY JENNIFER ROBERTS
52 Camping Out Ten steps to summer camp success. BY JENNIFER ROBERTS
60 Who’s Got Talent? A guide to the USEA’s Young Event Horse Program. BY CHRISTINA KEIM
Catching the Bug
A Guide to Buying
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March 2014 | EQUINEJOURNAL.COM 7
154 Real Estate
172 Affiliate Directory
176 Last Laugh
contents March 2014
100 Danielle Goldstien of Starwyn Farm kicked off her show season with a win aboard Carisma. 123 Jacob Arnold drives to the top of the Live Oak Combined Driving Developing Rider Program. 135 HVK Hot Ember changes hands.
14 Editor’s Note
16 On the Road
20 In Your Words
25 Points of Interest
28 Now You Know
the scoop
tail end
on the cover The Bureau of Land Management will be holding a Wild Horse and Burro Adoption at the Champion’s Center in Springfield, OH, on April 25-26. To learn more, visit page 23. Cover Photo by John Wheland Photography.
page 52
page 60
page 28
page 56
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PRESIDENT Donna Kessler GROUP PUBLISHER Patty Tiberg
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Morris Communications Company, LLC CHAIRMAN & CEO William S. Morris III
PRESIDENT Will S. Morris IV
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OPERATIONS MANAGER Kelly Lee Brady
EDITORIAL INTERN Jane Carlton
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I CONSIDER WORKING AS AN intern at the Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS) in Woodstock, IL, as one of those life-changing experiences. I applied to the internship to work for their magazine, but found that I learned so much more by working with the horses and other animals on the farm that had suffered at the hands of people in one way or another. When we went to investigate a farm, it was heart- breaking to see the horses suffering, but for those that we were able to help, it was amazing to see their transformation as they became healthy and learned to trust again. One thing I learned was that horses are very resilient creatures.
There were about 25 horses at HAHS, but it was a group of Pryor Mountain Mustangs that really intrigued me—they were a true testament to horse’s resil- iency. In learning about this specific strain of mustang, I found that they are one of the few groups verified by DNA to descend from the Colonial Spanish Horse. The HAHS group had been at the farm for quite a few years before I met them and by then had adapted to domestic life. They were inquisitive and people- oriented, and while they all had individual personalities, most were calm and friendly, choosing to walk up to the fence to greet you. They make great partners for experienced riders since they are known for their hardiness, stamina, sure- footedness, and intelligence. You can read more about the mustang this month in our Now You Know column (page 28).
We are dedicating our March issue to youth, and while an untrained mustang may not be suitable for your child’s first mount, a pony can definitely fit into the cards—you just have to know how to go about finding the perfect one. This month, Susan Winslow brings you tips on picking the perfect pint-sized companion from those that know best in “Catching the Bug: A Guide to Buying Your Child’s First Pony.” Read more on page 56.
If a new horse or pony isn’t in the near future, a great way to satisfy your child’s horse-crazy appetite is by letting them go to horse camp. There are a lot of factors to consider and Jenn Roberts breaks them down in her article, “Camping Out: 10 Steps to Summer Camp Success” on page 52.
We have a lot of great articles and columns geared toward youth this month, so be sure to take a look through the issue and let us know what you think.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Be a Part of the Equine Journal
» This month in our “In Your Words” column, we asked what your most memorable college riding experience was. See the answers on page 20. We would love to feature your answer next month. Visit us on Facebook, or send your answers to [email protected].
» If you have a great photo of your horse you would like to see as our Photo of the Month, email it to [email protected].
» Do you have a horse health or training question? Send your questions to [email protected], and we will have a leading veterinarian or trainer provide the answers you are looking for.
Managing Editor
AS AN EQUESTRIAN, I HAVE MADE some smart decisions when it comes to horses, as well as some not so great ones. You’d think that now that I’m 30 years old, all of the decisions I make are good ones, but that isn’t always the case. This past month, I was planning on attending the Colonial Carriage & Driving Society’s (CCDS) annual banquet, which was held in Lenox, MA. I had been anticipating this event for the two weeks prior to it—I had met a few of the club’s members previously at sleigh rallies and carriage driving events held in the area, and was looking forward to seeing them again, as well as meeting other members of the club that I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to via email or over the phone.
Unfortunately, I never made it to the event. The day of the banquet, they were predicting that there would be snow here in the Northeast. My husband, who was planning on attending the banquet with me, gently reminded me about the forecast, but I just chalked it up to the weathermen being wrong again.
“It’s not going to snow,” I scoffed. “And even if it does, we’ll probably only receive a couple of inches, like we did the last time.”
At 4:30 p.m., we set out for Lenox. There was some snowfall as we left, but it was melting as it hit the ground. If you’re not familiar with Massachusetts, the town of Lenox is set in the Berkshire Mountains. I should have realized that just because the snow falling in southern Worcester County wasn’t so bad, that didn’t mean that would be the case in the Berkshires.
The closer we got to the Springfield area—which was supposed to be our halfway point—the heavier the snowfall became. My husband reminded me that it would probably just get worse. We were already 45 minutes into our hour and a half ride, so I told him to keep driving (yes, he was the one driving, so I probably should have listened to him). That was a big mistake.
We ultimately ended up having to pull off of the road at one point, because it was just the plow trucks and us on the highway…and at some points, just us. I was finally ready to admit defeat, and shot an email off to Kay Konove at CCDS to explain we wouldn’t be able to make it. We had already driven 2 ½ hours, and hadn’t reached our destination. Since we were pulled over at a McDonald’s rest area, I asked the woman working there how close the next exit off the highway was, only to find out we would have to drive another 18 miles to turn around. The ride back home was an additional 2 ½ hours, making our round trip a whopping five-hour ride.
As we go to press with our inaugural youth issue, I’ve had the joy of looking back on my own past as a young equestrian. There have been some questionable decisions that I’ve made in my youth, but this one takes the cake.
ON THE ROAD
Getting Older Doesn’t Always Mean Getting Wiser
In my college riding days, I sometimes made mistakes—and I still occasionally make them.
Executive EditorExecutive Editor
This is my Quarter Horse gelding Major Whirlwind. I had to sell Major at one point and was certain that he was going to a wonderful home. The new owners had agreed to contact me if for whatever reason they would not be able to or want to keep him. I was devastated and for four years had a recurring dream that I’d be buying my horse back some day.
One day after coming home from work, we received a call from a complete stranger that he was the owner of a horse named Major and that my name was on the registration papers. He had tracked me down through the AQHA.
Through conversation with this gentleman, we found out that Major had in fact changed hands at least three times before ending up with him and that he was now trying to sell him and that of course he wanted to sell him with papers, which he wanted me to sign so he could transfer him into his name.
I told him that I’d really love to see Major and we went to visit him the next day. My husband did not think it was the same horse. He was nearly white and the horse we knew was a dark roan. But I knew it was him, and Major recognized me too. He walked up to me and put his head over my shoulder and pressed his cheek against my face— something he always did before I sold him.
We offered him cash money for Major (considerably less than he asked for) and that is how my dream came true and Major ended up back in my possession.
Needless to say, he will never leave again. He is now 24 years old.
Thank you for sharing my story, -Ute Shepherd, Greenwich, OH
I just wanted to share my vet’s story. She is the daughter of Dr. Bob Orcutt, a vet who was known as a Morgan breeder and competitor.
My equine vet [Dr. Helen Noble at SRH Veterinary in Ipswich, MA] is the most special person...she’s been to Asia three times to help with animals in undeveloped countries, and now she is heading to the Philippines to help there in the after- math of the devastation. I am just sharing her story.
She writes: “We are going to areas that receive little or no international relief aid. This is an eyewitness, fact finding trip laying the foundation for the future...our team is raising funds for the relief work, the start-up projects leading to transforma- tional development, and for travel. Resources for Philippine Rural Communities Corporation is a charitable organization for the benefit of rural communities in the Philippines founded by Cora Carter just before Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) hit.
If you would like to partner financially, please donate any amount. Nothing is too small or too big. Since no bureaucracy of any kind is involved, your donation will be efficiently put to use. Please make out your check to Resources for Philippine Rural Communities Corporation and mail to: Resources for Philippine Rural Communities Corporation, 2703 Heath Lane, Duluth, GA 30096.
-Pamela Mansfield-Loomis, Via Facebook
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I love this publica-
of interesting articles!
-Beth Thomas, Johnstown, PA
North Woods Animal Treats for Your Thoughts! We love hearing from you! Send us your letters to the editor for a chance to win next month’s prize of North Woods Animal Treats. All letters received by March 15 will be entered in the drawing. Send your submissions to editorial@ equinejournal.com, or to Equine Journal, Editorial, 83l Leicester Street, N. Oxford, MA 01537.
Congratulations to Beth Thomas for winning March’s letter-of-the- month! She will receive some North Woods Animal Treats.
[ FEATURED LETTER ]
With winter weather upon us, here is a picture of my Tennessee Walking Mare, Sunday, with my son. My son was out in the pasture in the process of making a snowman when Sunday came to investigate and stuck her nose right in his face like she was asking if he needed help.
-Susan St. Amand, Strasburg, VA
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IN YOUR WORDS
Riding a gaited horse for the first time in a lesson. It was a great learning experience!
- Hope Elizabeth Palmore
Working a great youngster for two years. Eight years
later he’s now the top horse for the team. I love going back to see him!
- Lisa-Marie Beckwith
It’s hard to pinpoint my most memorable experience…the riding team in college was the experience!
- Lucy Green
Hooking my mallet into the stadium railings while playing indoor polo and managing not to fall off!
- Cindy Downs
Realizing for the first time that riding is indeed a team sport!
- Jody Davis
Being the underdog team headed to nationals, then winning the Women’s Intercollegiate Polo Championship in the Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth, TX.
- Jenn Donnelly
Being asked to ride second field with the local foxhunt, what an amazing experience! It was my first time riding in fields and jumping natural obstacles.
- Jeannine Mahoney
The camaraderie…from beginner riders to advanced riders, we were all brought together by the love of the horse and ended up being amazing friends because of it!
- Bethany Bonner
What was What was your most your most memorablememorable college riding college riding experience?
gg experience?
For Next Month: How do you give back to the equine community? Send your answers to [email protected].
From Our Staff I had a great time competing on my college equestrian team, but my most memorable experiences while attending Salve Regina University in Newport, RI, were all the fun times riding down to the beach and cantering along the oceanside with my friends. Not everyone is lucky enough to get to do that on a weekly basis!
- Elisabeth Prouty-Gilbride, General Manager
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WHERE: Champion’s Center, 4122 Laybourne Road, Springfield, OH
DIRECTIONS: The facility is on the North side of I-70. Coming from the East, from I-70 West, take exit 59. Travel straight as though you are going to get back onto I-70 West, but before the on-ramp you’ll see the sign for Laybourne. Turn right. Travel ½ mile and the facility will be on your right. If you’re coming from the West, take exit 59 off of I-70. At the end of the exit, turn left and cross over I-70, just on the other side of I-70 turn left, you’ll see you’re turning as if to get on the on-ramp for I-70 West, but there is a sign just prior to the on-ramp for Laybourne Rd. Turn right onto Laybourne and travel ½ mile. The facility will be on the right; the Wild Horse and Burro Adoption will be in the covered arena.
If you use Google Maps, Mapquest, or other GPS, you can use these coordi- nates: 39.89550, 83.732216.
ON THE COVER Equine Journal Advertorial
The Bureau of Land Management Announces Upcoming Wild Horse and Burro Adoption THE BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT (BLM) IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY WILL BE HOLDING AN UPCOMING WILD HORSE and Burro Adoption on April 25-26, 2014 in Springfield, OH. The event will begin with a Friday Preview from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by Saturday’s Adoption from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Adoption is available on a first come, first served basis.
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BLM ADOPTION FAST FACTS
To adopt a wild horse or burro, you must: Be at least 18 years of age Have no prior conviction for inhumane treatment of animals or for violation of the Wild Free- Roaming Horse and Burro Act Have adequate feed, water, and facilities to provide humane care for the number of animals requested Provide a home for the adopted animal in the United States until you receive title from the BLM
NOTE: Parents or guardians may adopt a wild horse or burro and allow younger family members to care for the animal.
For more information, visit www.blm.gov or call v 866-468-7826.
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bits & pieces POINTS OF INTERESTPOINTS OF INTEREST p. 25 | NOW YOU KNOWNOW YOU KNOW p. 28 | 10 THINGS10 THINGS p. 30 | PREPURCHASE EXAMPREPURCHASE EXAM p. 32
ASK THE VETASK THE VET p. 38 | QUICK TIPSQUICK TIPS p. 34 & 36
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Photo of the
bits & pieces POINTS OF INTEREST
We asked: Did you go to horse camp as a child?
Gone Camping
Yes 42%
52%
Leading the Charge Racetrack practitioner Jeff Blea, DVM, partner in
VonBluecher, Blea, Hunkin Inc., Equine Medicine
and Surgery, in Sierra Madre, CA, was installed as
president of the American Association of Equine
Practitioners (AAEP) during the association’s 59th
Annual Convention in Nashville, TN.
Dr. Blea possesses significant expertise in ethical
and policy issues affecting racetrack veterinarians and
is a strong advocate for improving the racing model for
both the horse and the practitioner through adoption
of uniform rules among racing jurisdictions.
This valuable reference guide addresses 10 popular conformation myths, while showing readers an alternative way to evaluate conformation in a “built for the function” system. While other conformation manuals focus on individual pieces of the horse, this e-book takes a look at how all of the individual pieces com together to form an athletic equine.
BOTTOM LINE: Dispelling conformation myths that we have believed for years, this is an interesting read and priceless reference guide for anyone looking to select horses that can compete in a division that complies with their overall conformation.
Ten Conformation MythsTen Conformation Myths
BY JUDY WARDROPE, 102 pages, electronic book, JW Equine (JWEquine.com), 2007, $32.95.
[ E-BOOK ]
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r-
Media Review
Want to be included in our polls? Visit us on Facebook by scanning the QR Code with your smartphone.
Luck of the IrishLuck of the Irish Who doesn’t want to be Irish for a day? Well, here’s your chance! Brush off your green Leprechaun hat and coat, take your four-leaf clover out of retirement, and check out South Boston’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and legendary green river on March 16, 2014.
Whether you are a parade participant or a spectator, you are sure to have cloves of fun! Come check out the floats, bagpipes, trucks, horses, leprechauns, and of course, St. Patrick himself…who looks pretty good for a man that was born in 370 A.D.!
For details, visit southbostonparade.org.
the late John F. Kennedy’s
daughter, had a pony called
Macaroni. Her younger
named Leprechaun.
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bits & pieces POINTS OF INTEREST
(Wo)Man of the Year To cap off a record-setting year, show jumping superstar Beezie Madden added one more record to her résumé at the United States Equestrian Federation’s Pegasus Awards dinner, becoming the second person to ever score the USEF’s Equestrian of the Year title three times.
The dual Olympic team gold medalist cemented her status as one of the sport’s elite producing top finishes stateside and abroad, in addition to capturing one of the few individual titles that had eluded her, the Rolex/FEI World Cup Final crown.
The PATH to Education The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) announces the launch of the new PATH Intl. channel on YouTube. This channel will feature videos of the many different aspects of PATH Intl., including its emphasis on standards and credentialing in the equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) field.
PATH Intl. plans to provide new videos regularly and provide links to other videos of benefit to PATH Intl. centers and individual members. The PATH Intl. YouTube channel, and its introductory video, is available at youtube.com/user/pathintlvideo.
USA Equestrian Trust has awarded $55,000 in grants to help fund USA Equestrian Trust has awarded $55,000 in grants to help fund four projects by equine non-profits. The projects funded as part of the grants were:
American Saddlebred Horse Association to help redesign its database of registered Saddlebreds, members, competitions, and show results, as well as upgrade its website.
Arabian Horse Association to assist in revamping its website to help the organization market and promote the breed.
Sacramento Area Hunter Jumper Association to offer a free training clinic to its members, who are entry-level exhibitors and low- budget owners. The money for this grant was allocated from funding reserved for hunter/jumper activities in California and Nevada.
USEF Equine Health Research Fund for a research project at the University of California, Davis that is identifying novel drug therapies for the treatment of the nervous system disease, equine protozoal myeloencephalopathy.
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Fun trivia and interesting facts about mustangs
bits & pieces NOW YOU KNOW
230,000 Since 1971, the BLM has placed more than 230,000 wild horses and burros into private care.
1971 In 1971, the United States Congress recognized mustangs as “living sym- bols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West.”
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1519 Horses first returned to the Americas with Columbus, who imported them from
Spain to the West Indies on his second voyage in 1493. Domesticated horses came
to the North American mainland with the arrival
of Cortés in 1519.
1960 According to the legend, Robert J. Eggert, a Ford Division market research manager, first suggested the Mustang name. Eggert received the book, The Mustangs by J. Frank Dobie, from his wife in 1960. The book’s title gave him the idea of adding the “Mustang” name for Ford’s new concept car.
40,605 The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) estimates that 40,6055 wild horses and burros are roaming on BLM-managed rangelannds, based on the latest data available.
10 fun facts about the Welsh breed
bits & pieces 10 THINGS
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The Welsh breed has four sections: Section A – Welsh Mountain Pony (not exceeding 12.2 hands (U.S.) or 12 hands (U.K.); Sec-
tion B – Welsh Pony (not exceeding 14.2 hands (U.S.) or 13.2 hands (U.K.); Section C
– Welsh Pony of Cob Type (not exceeding 13.2 hands) and Section D – Welsh Cob (exceeding 13.2 hands with no upper limit). Section A and D are favored in Wales; Section B is most popular in the U.S. Section A is the foundation of all Welsh ponies and cobs.
The word “cob” refers not to size but to body type (solid bone, short coupled, and mus- cular). Welsh Cobs have the same charac- teristics as the smaller Sections—hardiness,
intelligence, gentle natures, an eagerness to please—but can be 16 hands or taller.
Archeological evidence (sizes of bits and shoes) sug- gests that Julius Caesar brought Welsh ponies back to Rome and used them in chariot races.
Having inhabited Wales for over 2,000 years, the Welsh have had a long association with people and have an affi nity for them, including children.
They perform excellently in therapeutic riding.
In the 15th Century, Welsh Cobs were used by British knights to lead the larger war horses over great distances. Matching the destriers stride for stride, the Cob developed a forceful
and ground-covering trot.
14.3 hand Section D mare, Cobble Hill JHN Imogen, qualifi ed for the Open Training division of the 2013 American Eventing Championships in her second competitive season and placed 23rd. Her sire,
Sapphire Crème of the Crop, won the Open Novice division at USEF/USEA Grass Ridge Horse Trials in Sonoita, AZ, after less than two months of jumping experience.
A 13.1 hand Welsh Pony stallion, Flying Diamond the Bailef, was reserve national champion of the 2012 Extreme Cowboy Race held in Fort Worth, TX.
14.3 hand Welsh Cob stallion, North Forks Brenin Cardi, won a 2013 CDI (international level dressage) Freestyle class at Rancho Murieta, CA, in his fi rst season showing Grand Prix CDI.
Welsh ponies and cobs often excel in dressage and jumping as well as driving, cross-country, and western disciplines.
King Henry VIII ordered all horses under 15 hands to be destroyed, but the Welsh ponies that escaped to the rugged terrain of the mountains thrived and
developed athleticism and a high degree of intelligence. Queen Elizabeth I annulled the law, and many
Welsh ponies were named after her.
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Sources: Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America, Board member and publicity chairman Martha Stover; Welsh breeder and international judge Suzanne Moody, Unionville, VA; Welsh researcher and breeder of Section B’s and D’s, Linda Davis; Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America website and printed flyer; Winterlake Welsh Farm website (home of North Forks Brenin Cardi); Welsh Cob breeder Cindy Normandeau of High Desert Cobs, AZ, owner of Sapphire Crème of the Crop; Welsh Cob owner and eventing champion Nicole Musmanno, owner and rider of Cobble Hill JHN Imogen; The Welsh Cob, Wynne Davis, published by J.A. Allen, 1998.
bits & pieces PREPURCHASE EXAM
Our testers: This month, our Prepurchase Exam was conducted by:: Kelly Ballou, Managing Editor; and Jennifer Roberts,d Social Editor, with the assistance of Nathan, Kiera, and Avery.
This month’s products for review will be donated to the BraveHearts Therapeutic Riding and Educational Center.
Do you have a product to suggest? Contact [email protected] with your ideas.
Devonaire Kids All-Pro Dev-Tek Ribbed Jodhpur Even our pickiest tester approved of these low-rise jods, with the thick elastic waistband, chevron stitched knee patches, and (her favorite) no uncomfortable interior leg seams. Made with the latest in fabric technology, the German style ribbed EPS fabric has an incredible amount of stretch and is designed to wick moisture in order to keep the smallest of riders cool and comfortable. The belt loops add a classic styling to these zip front jods.
As an added plus, every purchase helps support the United States Pony Club.
BUY THEM: Devonaire.com, $42.95.
Devonaire Kids Classic Cotton Jodhpur These cotton jods feature soft, stretchy cotton that pulls on easily and were child approved as comfortable. Yet, they still held up to anything the pint-sized tester could put them through. The zipper and clasp style made them easy to get on and the topstitched side seams create a tailored look. These tradition- ally styled jods also feature knee patches and hemmed cuffs with pant straps.
BUY THEM: Devonaire.com, $59.95.
TuffRider Cotton Embroidered Pull-On Jods The fi rst thing you notice about these adorable pull on jods are the jumping horses embroidered on the back. They also feature knee patches and a false fl y front for a traditional look. The material was not as stretchy as some jods, and was also thicker, which means they are a bit more constrictive than lighter-weight jods. But they are also less likely to show the wear and tear that happens
daily from children. They come in great kid-approved colors like hot pink with white ac- cents, tan with chocolate, and black with hot pink.
BUY THEM: Breeches.com, $34.99
Irideon Issential Jods The well-placed seams gave these jods the look of a much higher end pair, without the high-end price. Made of a light, wicking fabric, we could almost hear the mother’s collective sigh of relief (hang out at the pony ring long enough, and the chorus of “I’m too hot!” can drive anyone crazy). We also loved the adjustable jodhpur straps, which helped to give a customized fi t. The thick elastic waistband did twist aa bit when put through the wash cycle, but it was easy to straighten back out..
BUY THEM: Toklat.com, $59.95.
TuffRider Cotton Pull-On Jods
These tried and true economical jods are terrifi c for the beginner who is looking to try out a few schooling shows, or for
schooling—no matter the level you ride at. They are not only easy to wear and care for, but also very comfortable. Being a cotton/lyrca blend, they lasted well; however,
in warm weather, they were quite hot to wear. The drawstring kept them snug and secure…no matter how many times they
had to try that line again!
BUY THEM: Breeches.com, $28.99
the littlest equestrians.
I keep looking down at the jump for a distance,
but I just can’t get it, and it messes up not only my jump, but my courses! How can I fix this?
Eyes are really important in not only getting to your jump
correctly, but to also help with your overall ride. You can improve your eyes, and thus your performance, tenfold with practice. “Having soft eyes” means that you are focusing in a direction, but not looking directly at one thing, seeing “softly” and with peripheral vision. By lifting your eyes up and looking ahead in the direction that you are traveling, you are able to feel what is going on underneath you. This in turn will promote softer adjustments to your horse’s stride on the way to the fence and make a better jump overall.
When riders have “hard eyes,” this means they have the tendency to drop their eyes and look down at the bottom of the fence. This can cause them to have stiff hands and affects their ability to use a proper release and get the best jump possible from their horse. It can also cause a rider to add strides, get in “too deep” to the fence and/or become unbalanced and cause ducking to one side or the other.
Your focus should be forward, looking down the line to the center of the next fence, or to where you want to go. When you drop your eyes, inevitably you drop your head. Your weight tends to be too far forward, and it can cause you to be out of sync with your horse. This can cause a too close distance, a “chip,” which in turn will make you have to move up to make the desired number of strides down the line.
To ride smoothly, remember “eyes up and forward,” looking straight ahead. Wait for your horse to take the jump, don’t anticipate or look down to find that
magical distance and compromise your overall ride. This will allow you to be straight down your line not only to the fence, but away from it too. If you are turning after a jump, follow the correct track and draw a line with your eyes to the next fence. With your eyes up and forward, you will be able to feel if your horse is crooked or drifting and make any necessary corrections. You don’t need to look down at your mount to do this.
To help, choose a point to ride to in the ring and focus on that. Ride to that spot after your jump. Keeping your tempo consistent and supporting your horse with your outside aids through a turn will help you to be straight out of the turn.
I will often ask riders to look away (briefly) when approaching a fence so they don’t become fixated on finding a distance by looking down. This can stop that from happening. Continue riding directly toward the first jump, eyes looking toward the next fence on your course.
On the way to a bending line, I will ask riders to look for the second jump in the line on the approach to the first jump. This will allow for a smooth adjustment and distance to the first jump as well as setting the horse up
to land and bend to the second jump. When in the bending line, the rider should look up and forward to the next point of destination. The riders will feel the ride as well as look where they want to go. Adjustments can become smoother and offer a more finessed ride to the jumps. When your body is feeling what is going on, you will be relaxed, less tense, and able to follow and communicate better with your horse.
As with all my students, one of my goals as a trainer is to develop equestrians that ride with confidence and horses that enjoy their work, staying both safe and happy. Soft eyes are a big part of this.
NANCY PROSSER is the owner and trainer of the hunter/jumper training facility West View Farms in Wellington, FL. Prosser, who champions the charity Step by Step Foundation, grew up riding on the East Coast with top trainers including Ronnie Mutch. Since turning pro, Prosser’s students have earned many prestigious wins and year-end championships.
Hunter/Jumper Pointersr With Nancy Prosser
bits & pieces QUICK TIPS
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Lifting your eyes up and looking ahead in the direction that you are traveling allows you to feel what is going on underneath you.
What do you look for in a
western pleasure prospect?
Because I show Arabians, I look for
a horse that represents the best of our breed. Arabian type and look are very important to me. That being said, there are certain conformational traits I have found that make for a champion in any breed.
I will start with the most important part—disposition. I want a horse that likes to work and enjoys his job. No matter how conformationally superior a horse is, if he does not want to do his job, he will never truly be great. Additionally, it is not fun for the horse or me.
Conformationally, I want a horse that is built to stay sound. The horse that will win at a national level will have to be perfectly trained, and this requires consistent training over a long career. Ideals of breed standards typically are based on what makes a horse a good athlete.
The word balance is often used in western pleasure. This means things like pasterns are not too long or too short, and not too straight or too sloped. Cannon bones should be rela- tively short with good clean bone. I like to see hocks that are close to the ground and set well under the body.
In the Arabian breed, we often laude a horse for a long neck. A long neck is pretty and looks cool. However, if it is so long that it creates an imbalance in the horse, then you can have problems. Oftentimes, too long a neck can mean too long a back. A short back is usually
a strong back. Think of a suspension bridge. The further apart the two support towers are (the horse’s front and rear legs), the weaker the bridge will be in the center (the horse’s back).
I like a horse with a neck that comes out a bit higher in the shoulder than most people do, as I prefer one that can sit up in the bridle. For me, it is easier to teach a horse to drop down after his shoulders are balanced than it is to teach him to rise up. Horses set too low can be a challenge to keep balanced.
A long hip with some angle is always preferred. Straight, well-set tails are important. I will steer away from horses with busy tails. If their first response to any pressure is to swish their tails, I would be concerned. I try to start with horses that do not have
that predisposition. I also try to stay away from excessive use of spurs.
As with any horse, well-shaped and forward ears are highly desired. When I look at a horse’s eyes, I like to see a horse with a calm and understanding, yet curious, look.
CHRIS CULBRETH and his clients have garnered many national and reserve national championships. Areas of success include English, western, hunter pleasure, park, show hack, driving, and equitation. He is a licensed judge and officiates widely all over the U.S. and Canada, as well as South Africa, Brazil, and Australia.
Western Pointersn With Chris Culbreth
bits & pieces QUICK TIPS
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Disposition is a very important characteristic for any western pleasure prospect—if he does not want to do his job, he will never truly be great.
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What are the most common skin problems that you
see in horses? Are they preventable and how can you treat them?
The skin is the largest func- tioning organ in the body. It
serves to: 1) provide a barrier from the environment, such as protection against microorganisms, toxic agents, insects, mechanical insult, and weather and ultraviolet radiation from the sun; 2) thermoregulation; and 3) allow absorp- tion of nutrients and limit passage of water and electrolytes, such as control of evaporation (sweating).
When the skin becomes damaged, either from injury or as a result of compromise or sensitization of the immune system, its susceptibility to disease is significantly increased. There are a variety of dermato- logic conditions that affect the horse, but only a few that are routinely observed.
Scratches is a condition caused by numerous agents, such as bacterial or fungal infections, dermatophilosis, mange, photosensitization, and contact hypersensitivity. It is observed on the distal limbs as ulcerative and crusted wounds with matted hair. Treatment consists of clipping the hair, keeping the wounds clean, and applying topical oint- ments. Prevention is directed toward the exact cause of the disease.
Dermatophilosis (rain rot) is a bacterial infection that results from prolonged exposure to moisture. It is observed on the dorsum (back) of the horse as small scabs and matting of the hair. The underlying skin is often irritated and produces a serosanguinous discharge. Treatment consists of removing the horse from the moist environment and cleaning the affected areas with betadine or chlo- rhexidine. Antibiotics are warranted in more severe cases. Prevention is to provide shelter and/or blanketing during rain and snow.
Urticaria (hives) is an allergic response caused by numerous agents, such as pollens, insects, drugs, and even diet. It is typically observed on the face and body and may extend down the limbs, as raised areas of skin that may or may not itch. Treatment consists of observation and/or administration of anti-histamine or steroid drugs. Prevention is directed toward the exact cause of the hives.
Sarcoids are thought to be caused by a viral infection. There are six classifications, and each typically has its own characteristic appearance (minus the mixed lesions). Lesions can be located across the body. Treatment consists of observation, surgical excision, and chemotherapy. There is no known prevention.
Squamous cell carci-
noma is a malignant cancer of a
the epidermis. It is observed at mucocutaneous junctions, such as around the eyes and genitalia, and in non-pigmented skin, as ulcerative and/or reddened lesions. Treatment consists of surgical excision, chemotherapy (drugs and radiation), and cryotherapy. There is no known prevention, but protection from sunlight for light-skinned horses is recommended.
Melanoma is a benign cancer often seen in older and/or grey horses. It is observed around the perianal region and underside of the tail but can be located in other areas of the body. It manifests as nodular and/or ulcerated lumps. Treatment varies with the lesions and includes observation, surgical excision, and chemotherapy. There is no known prevention, but a vaccine has been developed to prevent the disease.
Photosensitization results from exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This may be a typical “sunburn” of non-pigmented skin, but in horses
there are two forms of acquired photosensitization: 1) ingestion of certain plants or drugs (e.g., St. John’s Wort or potentiated sulfa and tetracycline drugs), and 2) liver disease. It manifests as ulcerative and/or reddened areas that produce a serous discharge. Treatment and prevention are directed toward the cause of the photosensitization.
Most skin conditions in horses are similar in appearance but require different treatments. It is therefore important to have your veterinarian examine your horse to establish a diag- nosis and plan of action. Implementing proper management protocols into a barn or stable is equally as important to minimize the risk of your horse developing these diseases. Your veterinarian is an excellent resource to consult with regarding development of a plan.
That Covers ItThat Covers It Taking a Look at Common Skin Conditions
BY GRANT MYHRE, D.V.M. AND ALYSSA E. WARNEKE, D.V.M. OF MYHRE EQUINE CLINIC
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your horse health questions answered
bits & pieces ASK THE VET
Implementing proper management protocols for your horse is important to minimize his risk of developing certain skin conditions.
Equine Professionals Reflect on What They Learned from Riding in College
A s you head off to college, your main focus is on learning, earning your degree, and working toward your future career. While time spent in lectures, labs, and study groups are essential, college is
more than that. A healthy social life is imperative, as we mature so much
during the years that we spend in college, but for equestrians that goes beyond the parties and the difficulties with room- mates. Horseback riders learn to compete as a team in a normally individualized sport, learning from and leaning on each other.
Not only do college riders walk away from their education with a degree and lifelong friendships, but also with newly acquired skills from competing as a team, both on and off the horse. We spoke with a handful of professional horsemen and women this month as they assessed how intercollegiate riding influenced their careers.
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BeBeezezieie M Madaddeden n crc edediti s s cocompmpetining g onn aan n IHIHSA teteama aas s helpinng wiw thth her curu reentnt ssuccecesss..
OLYMPIC DREAMS Before Elizabeth “Beezie” Madden was an Olympic medalist and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Equestrian of the Year, she was competing with the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team at Southern Seminary Jr. College in Virginia where she graduated as valedictorian with a degree in liberal arts.
It’s really no surprise that Beezie continued riding while in college. She tells us, “I grew up riding with my parents who owned a stable. I got my first pony at the age of three, and I have been riding ever since.”
In college, Beezie certainly made her mark winning the esteemed Cacchione Cup as an individual, as well as helping her team make it to National Championship honors in the team rankings.
Now, Beezie rides for her husband John Madden of John Madden Sales in Cazenovia, NY. Just last year, Beezie won the 2013 FEI World Cup Finals Championship as well as being named the 2013 USEF Equestrian of the Year. Simon, the horse that she won the World Cup Finals on, was also named the 2013 USEF Horse of the Year.
Beezie explains that competing with her IHSA team directly translates to her successful showings at the Athens, Bejing, and London Olympics. “Riding in college allowed me to experience riding as a team member and learn how to help make the team cohesive. I think this helped me with competing on a team, which is very different than how riders normally compete!”
However, it was the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen when Beezie felt the full extent of what she learned in college. “At Southern Seminary, I learned how to hop on a strange horse and execute a course with it,” Beezie explains. “The World Equestrian Games format includes switching of horses between the top riders in the final phase. We only get two warm-up fences with each horse before we take them into the arena over an international course at the highest level of competition.”
EQUITATION ASPIRATIONS Kalyn Healey Fogarty graduated in 2006 from Stonehill College in Easton, MA, with a degree in biology and a minor in biochemistry. However, after college she didn’t find a job in a lab—instead, she continued toward her dream of being involved in the horse industry.
She now owns Artemis Training and Sales, a hunter/ jumper training barn in Long Island, NY, named after her beloved equitation mare Artemis. Kalyn teaches riders of all ages, but focuses mostly on those looking to compete in the Short Stirrup through Big Equitation divisions in the local and A circuits.
While she was active on the A circuit prior to college, she found riding on the team a welcome change of pace and a wonderful learning experience. “After competing on the A circuit in high school it was a nice change to compete on the IHSA and Varsity circuit. Riding as a member of a team
where every rider’s points count was a very unique experience compared to the individual nature of riding outside of college. It was very special to have a team of girls who all rooted for each other and helped each other both in the ring and outside of it.”
Taking the Stonehill College team by storm, she was a member of the 2003 National Championship IHSA Team, as well as winning ribbons in the open over fences at multiple Varsity Tournament of Champions. As a senior, Kalyn was the bronze medal winner in the Individual Open over Fences at the IHSA 2006 National Championships.
She attributes much of her success after graduation to what she learned while competing in college. “I learned that hard work and mental preparation is just as important as talent. Riding in college was very different than riding on the circuit. You don’t get to practice on the horse that you draw or use your own tack. You don’t get the advantage of a warm-up jump or get to pick the bit that goes in its mouth. You have to study the horse while someone else warms it up. No matter how great your eye is or how many ribbons you once won in the Medal and Maclay classes, you are on a level playing field with your competitors. It is necessary to study the horse in other ways—watching it with other riders, noting how the other riders were successful or unsuccessful on the horse. This taught me to go beyond relying on natural talent and really
breaking down my riding into a methodical and thoughtful plan. This has translated into my professional life in many ways. I am able to watch my students and pick up on the subtle things that they are doing on their horses and help them to grow as riders.”
Kalyn is already proving that she puts thought and hard work into training her riders and horses. One of her students was awarded fourth place in the prestigious USEF Medal Finals in Harrisburg, PA, this past October. In addition to this, her pony riders have ribboned in the pony hunters at
the USEF Pony Finals, Devon Horse Show, and Washington International Horse Show; while her equitation students have qualified and ribboned at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, Marshall and Sterling Finals, and Professional Horsemen’s Association (PHA) Finals.
However, the ability to analyze horse-and-rider teams
Kalyn Healey Fogarty with two of her students.
FUN AND GAMES Kalyn Healey Fogarty laughs when asked about memories from college that will stick with her. “At Nationals in Harrisburg when I was a senior, I was walking down the long chute toward the entrance of the ring. I was on deck. The owner/handler of the horse I was riding suddenly tells me, ‘Sometimes when you are two strides away he doesn’t know that he is supposed to go to the jump and leave the ground.’ I looked at the lady like she was crazy. She was telling me that the horse basically didn’t understand what jumping was as I was about to jump him around a 3'6" course. Then she continued, ‘But usually if you kick him really hard it’s fine and he figures it out.’ Great. We had a lovely round and ended up third. I felt the hesitation that the owner described, but luckily he decided he knew how to jump that day!”
was not the only thing that Kalyn gained while on the Stonehill team. “Being team captain also helped me learn how to explain things to teammates and act as a motivator and inspiration, which I use every day in my professional teaching.”
SELF-DISCOVERY Unlike Beezie and Kalyn, Tom Brennan was not aiming for the professional legions prior to his experience in college. Graduating in 2004 Cum Laude with a degree in psychology from Stonehill College in Easton, MA, Tom had a very limited involvement with horses before college. He says, “I took lessons at a local barn and had some friends with horses, but we did not go to shows. We had a lot of fun, though!”
Riding for four years on the Stonehill College IHSA/ NCAA Equestrian Team with coach Sheila Murphy, Tom started in the Advanced Walk/Trot/Canter division and moved up to the Open division before he graduated, a testament to his dedication and talent. Tom tells us, “I went to Nationals three times and captained the 2003 National Championship team. I participated in the first NCAA championships before boys were disqualified from competition. We participated in the Tournament of Champions series with a lot of success. The IHSA is the great equalizer in our sport. You do not have to come from a lot of experience or money to be accepted. Everyone has the same chance to do well. “
Tom is currently the professional rider and trainer at Tony Workman’s Winter Hill Farm in northern Virginia. In addition to his responsibilities for the clients at Winter Hill, Tom has a small “r” judge’s card and tries to involve himself as much as possible in the governance of the sport. To that end, Tom has been the chairman of the Young Professionals
Committee, vice chair of the International Hunter Derby Task Force, and is a member of both the USHJA Hunter Working Group and USEF National Hunter Committee. Tom is also the commentator for the USEF Network for the International Hunter Derby Finals.
Tom says that much like Beezie and Kalyn, he is able to attribute much of his success to what he learned riding on the team. “I do a fair amount of catch riding for people at horse shows. I could not be as calm and confident about it without my experience in the IHSA. The college riding experience also forces you to look at the bigger picture—to see how a group of people can work together to accomplish a larger goal.”
He has seen his fair share of victories since leaving the IHSA ranks. “Intercollegiate riding is very valuable for someone who intends to make a career in this industry. It both teaches and forces you to be adaptable.” His adapt- ability has proven to be a component to his success, being
“The IHSA is the great equalizer in our sport. You do not have to come from a lot of experience or money to be accepted.
Everyone has the same chance to do well.” — Tom Brennan —
Tom Brennan and Gramercy Park.
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named the 2012 World Champion Developing Professional Hunter Rider and riding Gramercy Park to the title of 2012 World Champion Hunter Horse of the Year. In addition to these honors, he has earned the titles of WCHR Regional Champion 2010-2013, 2013 Gulfport International Hunter Derby Champion, 2013 Gulf Coast Winter Circuit Champions – Green Working, Performance Hunter, and Regular Conformation, and tri-colors and Indoors in Green Working and Green Conformation divisions.
Technical skills and the ability to adapt were not the only things that Tom gained from his time on the team. He also fostered lifelong relationships. “I learned early on to surround myself with good people in this business. This is as important as talent and work ethic. Nothing goes perfectly and the people around you—peers, employees, and clients—see you through the problems that come up.
“On another level, this industry has inherent difficul-
ties, making it hard to have a “normal” personal life. My college equestrian team exposed me to the people that have become my family and friends for a lifetime. Not only did I meet my wife, but also I made such close friends that we still talk regularly and go on vacation together.”
BEYOND SHOW RINGS AND RIBBONS When heading off to college, you may be focused on your academics (and should be!), but don’t discount the leader- ship skills, the analytic abilities, and the lifelong friendships that you will form while competing in college.
Not every equestrian in college goes on to be a horse trainer; many choose to continue riding, but only as a hobby. However, the skills that they learned while competing on the team continue to help them as they continue on their career path.
Sharalyn Lima, a graduate of Endicott College and a member of their intercollegiate team, now works at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) and calls upon her experience daily as she discusses the program with aspiring high school riders. Kristen Kasper, an alumni of Mount Holyoke College and an assistant project manager at Florida NextGen Test Bed and research assistant at NEAR Lab ERAU, finds that the time management skills she learned on the team are now an essential part of her daily life.
No matter where your career takes you, the time you spend on your college equestrian team is time well spent.
CHOOSE THE SCHOOL FOR YOU “Whether you’re a rider or not, you must be able to envision yourself at every school that you apply to. You must ask yourself the question, ‘Will I be happy here?’ You will be spending the next four years there, not your parents, not your college counselor or your trainer…you must be happy and comfortable with your decision. You know what you are looking for and what is most important to you in your schoolwork, social life, and riding endeavors. Take the reins in your college decisions!”
-CJ Law, Mount Holyoke College.
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CAMPING OUT
1} Talk to your child and learn what type of camp experience they are looking for. Are they looking to spend three hours a day in the saddle,
or would they prefer to ride a little and play a lot? Asking these questions in the beginning of the process will help guide you to the appro- priate camp.
2} Making the choice between a residential and a day camp is one that relies on your gut feelings and your child’s personality. Many day camps cater
to children as young as four years old, while residential ones tend to limit their groupings to ages seven and over. Even if your child is over seven, a day camp still might be the best choice for their first time experience. Make sure your child is
ready to make the leap to a residential camp… being homesick is no fun!
3} Try to match your child’s riding ability to the level of expertise that the camp offers. Some camps span from the beginner to the advanced rider, while
others focus solely on one ability level. You do not want your child to feel as though they are under-challenged or overfaced while they are away. Unless your child wants to try something new this summer, be sure that they offer the same discipline as what your child rides.
Also look at the focus of the camp; is the goal to teach a variety of general horsemanship skills or is it to get the campers show ring ready? Again, look at your child’s aspirations and see how the camp can help them to reach their goals over the course of the summer.
{ BY JENNIFER ROBERTS
While March may seem a bit early to be making plans for this summer, it’s important to start thinking about summer camp. Camps are already filling up, and if you are anything like me, you want to have first choice when it comes to where and how your children spend their summer. These quick tips should help you to narrow down the search for that perfect camp, and then the rest is up to you.
10 STEPS TO
SUMMER CAMP SUCCESS
4} If your child has a horse, one of your concerns may be whether or not she can bring old Trigger to camp with her. Bringing her horse may give her more time
to practice and become a team with him, while riding unfamiliar horses gives your child another valuable experience. This depends on you and your child’s personal preferences and goals.
5} Ask about the staff’s qualifications. While the credentials of the head instructor will often be advertised extensively, it is important to know more about the staff members that your child will
be spending the majority of her time with. See if the camp has a screening process for the counselors that they hire, and ask a bit about the process. Also, see if they have recommenda- tions and reviews available from past campers.
6} What is the safety record for the recent years of the camp? Obviously when dealing ? with horses the unexpected can happen, so do not rule out a camp because they have had
a few mishaps. There is a degree of risk when riding and caring for horses, but what you should be concerned with is how the camp minimizes those risks.
7} What is the camper-counselor ratio? Learning horsemanship skills can require a lot of one-on-one supervision. Typically, equestrian camps have a ratio of five to six
students per counselor, allowing them to get a hands-on feel for the skills. Also ask how the campers are broken up amongst the counselors and if there is ever a chance for one on one time to learn certain skill sets.
8} If your child has special needs, be sure to ask the camp director how they will be met. Some special needs that you may need to discuss would be vegetarian diets, learning
disabilities, a non-English speaking child, or physical disabilities. See if the camp and the counselors have prior experience with children with similar needs.
9} Cost may be a factor when looking into the camps. Take the time to decide what you can reasonably afford, but try not to focus solely on cost, as a bad camp experience is not worth
any amount of money. Some camps may also offer financial aid or scholarships, so if cost is the only limiting factor in an otherwise perfect camp, it may be worth discussing budgets with the director.
10} Go visit the camp. You may find that the website consists of carefully planned shots that do not show the whole story or that the camp is even more wonderful than you
ever imagined. Spend time with the staff and get a tour of the facility. Be warned though, after you see the camp, you may be asking if you can come (many places also have adult camp weeks…you may want to join in on the fun)!
{We want to know! What camp is your child attending this year? Tell us on Facebook (facebook.com/EquineJ) or Twitter (twitter.com/EquineJournal).
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Knowing what type of riding experience your child is hoping to gain from camp
will help with the selection process.
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A Guide to Buying Your Child’s First Pony
B uying a pony for your child is both an exciting and daunting experience. We all harbor the childhood fantasy of the adorable Thelwell-type pony, full of irresistible hi-jinks, personality, and talent. Those ponies are out there, but it takes a combi- nation of determination, knowledge, and a touch of luck to find the right one.
Enlist the Help of a Pro Kathy Borylo, owner of Springtide Farm in Boxford, MA, a leading hunter/jumper facility, has been helping adults and children find suitable family and competition mounts for over 35 years as a professional coach and trainer. “It is a leap of faith for the customer when buying a first pony with a trainer,” says Borylo, “and also a huge responsibility for the trainer. One benefit of working with a reputable trainer is that they know others in the business who are honest professionals who will always represent their horses and ponies in a fair way. A trainer can evaluate your riding skills and goals, and do the leg work to find the most suitable mount for you,
saving you time and money in the long run. We know people in the industry and we are out at all the shows, so we know the market. A good trainer can also help you evaluate the sale horse—the personality, conformation, way of going, and suitability to your riding style, experience, and goals.”
Be Realistic Sally Ross Davis, owner of Rollingwoods Farm in Olive Branch, MS, along with her sisters, Dr. Ruth Willburn and Joanna Willburn, specializes in breeding and sales of top quality Welsh ponies for family mounts up to U.S. Pony Finals competitors. She offers sage advice to prospective buyers, “Be realistic about your expec-
Before you begin the search, it’s important to develop honest parameters regarding price range, your child’s interest, ability, and goals. It’s also important to consider the family’s ability to handle not only the initial cost, but the continuing financial outlay that comes with equine ownership. Word of mouth has always been a helpful way to find a well-schooled, hand-me-down packer from a rider who has outgrown his or her pony or is college-bound. But with the help of a trusted trainer and good old-fashioned networking, it’s still possible to find great ponies on the open market. Prices range from free leases to triple digits, depending on breeding, age, temperament, and show record. Don’t be tempted to overface a child with a flashy pony that is beyond his or her ability, as fear is one of the greatest crushers of lifelong riding enjoyment. While age is a consideration, there are still many ponies going strong well into their late teens and twenties.
Sally Ross Davis with her son, Mason Davis, riding Rollingwoods Undeniable.
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tations. If your child is a beginner, don’t buy a green pony. You have to remember that buying a pony is very different from buying a horse, because the majority of pony riders are children, and there is a learning curve.”
Davis also advises buyers to do their homework on pedigree. “Check your bloodlines before you buy, because certain bloodlines carry certain traits. We have a mare line that produces excellent children’s ponies, real babysitters that take good care of young riders. Here at Rollingwoods, we breed for disposition as well as talent and that is an important factor when buying a pony for your child.”
Trial Period and Prepurchase Exams When you find the right pony, it’s helpful to ask for a trial period and insist on a prepurchase exam, the cost of which is covered by the buyer. Short term insurance coverage may be purchased for the sale pony, and a trial period will help the buyer evaluate both the compatibility of the child with the pony, and the pony’s behavior in a new setting.
“Although the prepurchase exam has its limitations, it is one of the most valuable services your veterinarian has to offer,” says veterinarian Dr. Annemarie Butler, owner of North Shore Equine PC in Newburyport, MA. “The examination provides a significant amount of information regarding the horse and oftentimes will stimulate discussion between the owner and purchaser regarding how the horse has been cared for, issues he/she has had in the past, and how he/ she responds in various situations, etc. I will typically advise
clients to have a prepurchase examination performed largely due to the inherent costs of keeping horses. Regardless of the purchase price of the horse, the cost of even the most extensive prepurchase exam is minimal compared to the monthly and annual costs of caring for the horse after purchase. If a purchase is made without knowledge of a medical condition that limits the performance of the animal, the purchaser will nonetheless be left responsible for the horse’s care.”
Dr. Butler explains the process, “A general prepurchase examination includes a thorough physical examination as well as a musculoskeletal exam (otherwise known as a lame- ness exam). The physical exam includes examination of the horse’s heart, lungs, eyes, etc. The musculoskeletal exam includes examination in motion whether on the longe line, under saddle, or both as well as flexions. Additional testing at the time of the exam includes, but is not limited to, radiog- raphy, ultrasonography, endoscopy, and blood work. The goal
is to provide the purchaser with as much information as possible to make an educated decision regarding purchase.”
The Power of the Pony Pony ownership can foster lifelong friendships, a sense of responsibility, and accomplishment for a youngster, and can be one of the most thrilling times in a child’s life. So when you’re ready to make the purchase, do your homework, work with a professional if possible, and take the time to ensure that you’ve made every effort to find a safe, suitable, healthy pony for your child to love and ride. Chances are, it will become a beloved member of the family in no time.
Ten-year-old Livi Weinstein and her pony, Prince Charming, demonstrate the
bond between ponies and their owners.
Ponies can be great teachers for children learning to ride and often instill a lifelong love of the sport. P
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he Young Event Horse (YEH) Program of the United States
Eventing Association (USEA) is described by the organization as an “equestrian talent search” because it seeks to find equine athletes capable of competing at the highest lleevels of the sport. According to tthe program’s official desccrription, the “goal of the Seriess is to choose the young- sster thatt ppossesses the talent anndd mind sseet, and who with proppeer traininngg,, will excel in the upppeermost levveels of the eevventing wworld.”
Who’s Got TALENT?
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Marilyn Payne, FEI judge and co-chair of the YEH Committee, says that the program also serves to provide a showcase for young horses destined to become amateur or young rider mounts. For many breeders, this is an incredibly lucrative market and participation in the program serves as a spotlight for their horses.
The YEH program allows four- and five-year-olds to compete against other animals of the same age. 2013 was a big year for the program; according to Rob Burk, senior director of programs for the USEA, there were 21 regular YEH competitions held, and two championships, for a total of 23 contests, with 254 horses competing across the country. Nine of out of 10 of the USEA’s Areas hosted at least one YEH competition.
Though the program is not quite a decade old (the first competitions were held in 2004), it is already producing results. “I love the fact that the only three horses who were products of the YEH program that were entered to compete in the Preliminary Level at the American Eventing Championships [in 2013], finished first and second in the Preliminary Horse division, and first in the Preliminary Amateur division,” says Burk. “Those odds are astronomical and proof that the program has done a good job of identifying potential.”
Today we will take a look at the basics of this program, its impact on event horse breeding in the U.S., and plans for the future.
Purpose When the YEH Program was first conceptualized, the USEA looked to similar programs already in existence abroad to use as models. Payne says that England’s program is amongst the best established, and culmi- nates each year with a competition at Burghley. “However, the horses only compete in the ring,” says Payne. “In the Irish program, the emphasis is on cross- country. We took a little bit from each program.”
While the primary goal of the program is to provide a showcase to find future CCI3* and CCI4* horses, Payne says that an equally important objective is to encourage breeders to breed horses specifically for the sport of eventing.
“Most breeders focus on either dressage or jumpers,” says Payne, a sport horse breeder herself for the past 30 years. “As you breed for eventers, some will be better suited for dressage or jumpers, so you place them there. However, we are really looking for the athlete that will be a CCI horse. Usually this animal is a Thoroughbred or has Thoroughbred blood. They need to be able to go the distance.”
The YEH Program also gives trainers a place for young horses to train and school without the pressure and stren- uous effort of a bigger competition. Horses are assessed in three areas: conformation and type, performing a dressage test, and the jumping test, which includes a gallop. “The jumping test is a much shorter course than even what you would see at a lower level event,” says Payne. “The dressage is quite basic; horses walk, trot, and canter, and the rider should aim to show off the horse’s gaits. We reward horses ridden freely forward and with quality gaits.”
Horses compete at regional qualifying competitions throughout the year; those with outstanding scores at the regional events are eligible to compete at one of two national championships (East and West). Generally, early season competitions are intended to
be low key and inviting, and the intensity increases throughout the year, culminating with the most difficult courses at the championships. Jumping tests usually consist of five to six fences each for cross-country and show jumping.
“For the four-year-olds, all the fences should be lower and more introductory in nature,” says Payne. “Horses are encouraged to trot fences in preparatory competitions. By the time you reach the championships, horses should be able to canter and jump out of stride.”
From the Breeder’s Perspective Tim Holekamp of New Spring Farm in Missouri and Florida is well known to eventers as the owner of the Trakehner stallion Windfall; he also currently serves as the co-chair of the YEH Committee. Although he has chosen in recent years not to enter his own horses in YEH competition, so as to avoid concern about conflict of interest, in future years, he may do so again. He and his wife initially became involved in order to get an accurate outside evaluation of the potential of their homebreds.
“[We] have been breeding horses mainly for eventing for nearly 30 years,” says Holekamp. “It took us half that time just to get a grasp of what parameters are most important
Horses are assessed in three areas during a Young Event Horse competition: conformation and type, dressage, and jumpin

equine journal (march 2014)

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