EN reader Barbara Martin sent in this video of Theodore O’Connor’s beautiful clear show jumping trip at Rolex in 2007 with this message: ” Found this in my YouTube archives and was remembering Teddy. Post if the spirit moves you, and Happy Holidays to all of you at EN!” Love the thunderous applause at the end of the video. Such a special pony and a great moment in U.S. eventing history. Go Teddy.
‘Tis the season to have absolutely no idea what to get any of your friends or family, for the umpteenth year in a row. Every once in a while you find the perfect present, but especially for horsey friends, the pressure is on. Obviously you’ll be purchasing something horse-related, but does it have to be pink and have a fat pony on it? We here at Eventing Nation say NAY! That’s why this holiday season each one of our impressive staff writers is picking one unique, amazing, thoughtful and clever horsey gift to help you along during this time of stress. Happy holidays!
You’ve waited until the last minute to do all your Christmas shopping too? What a coincidence! We’ve had a lot of fun highlighting some of our favorite small businesses in our Holiday Gift Ideas series, and I also wanted to highlight two products from our awesome EN sponsors — one of which I own and one of which is currently on my Christmas wish list. Today I’m talking boots — both the human and horse varieties. When I finally admitted to myself last year that my more than decade-old field boots had never really fit me properly, I started scouring the internet for a new pair.
I quickly discovered that tall boot technology had changed drastically in the last decade. Not only could I not track down a single boot without zippers — I was still convinced at this point that my calf would explode out of a zipped boot the first time I put it on — but the price point for what I deemed to be a solid boot had risen significantly. As in I was probably going to need to sell a kidney in order to afford a boot that would not pop open in a violent fashion the first time I zipped it.
In steps Tredstep Ireland. I had absolutely zero experience with the brand at this point, but after seeing such positive reviews for the Donatello boots on SmartPak’s website, I decided to try them out. At a retail price of $298, the boots are about as affordable as you can find for this type of quality. The boots arrived and — cue the angels singing — they were gorgeous. They even looked custom! And the fantastic tread of the boots had everyone in my barn asking about them.
I’d read about some break-in challenges on SmartPak’s website, so I used strips of duct tape over my boot socks on the backs of my ankles and knees for the first week I rode in them. The duct tape prevented any pinching and rubs, and by the end of the first week, they were broken in beautifully. A year later, I still love my Tredstep Ireland Donatello boots just as much as that first day. I am pleased to report that my calf has not exploded out of them, and the zippers are still in fantastic shape.
One of my barnmates bought the Da Vinci boots — which retail at $489 and are one of the higher-end options offered by Tredstep Ireland — after falling in love with mine, and she adores hers as well. The Da Vinci and Raphael — which also retail at $489 — have an awesome wrap-around panel that snaps over the zipper on the back of the heel, making them look even more custom. It’s that type of attention to detail that really sets these boots apart.
I’m officially a Tredstep Ireland convert. And did I mention the Raphael boots are worn by Lauren Kieffer, Hannah Sue Burnett, Emily Beshear, Sharon White, Rick & Elisa Wallace and Diana Burnett? You too can be cool like them! If you’d like to get these boots for yourself or someone you love this Christmas, it’s not too late, as SmartPak is offering 2nd day air shipping. Click here to check out the full Renaissance Collection of Tredstep Ireland boots, and click here to shop them on the SmartPak website.
And now for boots for our equine counterparts. Here’s the part where I confess I am a total equine boot nut. I love researching all the newest technologies that offer better protection and performance for our horses, and I agonize over choosing the right options for my OTTB Mia. World Equestrian Brands takes the guess work out of boot purchasing with Equilibrium, which recently introduced the new Tri-zone Airlite Open Front II boots.
The Tri-zone brand is built on a core principle of zoned protection, providing protection where your horse needs it most. When concussion occurs, shock is transferred through three zones within the boot, so the impact never reaches the leg’s tendons and ligaments. Tri-zone technology absorbs up to 50 percent more concussion and is 50 percent more resistant to penetration in independent clinical trials when compared to leading market brands, which is mega impressive.
Buck Davidson uses the Tri-Zone Airlite boots — you’ve probably seen him rocking the Allsports II on cross country — and he gave them this glowing endorsement: “The Tri-zone Allsports boots have become an essential part of my equipment. They are super protective, yet unbelievably light weight, and keep my horse’s legs from overheating. They are great in water, as it drains out quickly and doesn’t add any weight. I highly recommend them.”
In short, if the boots are good enough for Buck, they’re certainly good enough for me. The Tri-zone Airlite Open Front II boots retail at $110, while the Allsports II retail at $112, putting them at a very competitive price point when you compare them to other leading boots on the market. Click here to shop the full Tri-zone line on World Equestrian Brand’s website.
Fran Jurga posted this awesome video over on The Hoof Blog, and she passed it along to me to share with EN readers. What happens when Santa needs a very special shoe for a certain reindeer on Christmas Eve? Blacksmiths World Champions David Varini, Grant Moon and Paul Robinson step in to save Christmas. Pass this video along to the farriers in your life! Go farriers.
From The Hoof Blog:
This imaginative video, produced by Mustad, inspired me to re-write the signature poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, with all apologies to Henry Livingston and/or Clement Moore. The poem has true ties to the farrier world; the authorship has been under dispute for a century or so but if Livingston was the author, he penned it next to a fireplace in the building that became the office of the Phoenix Horseshoe Company in Poughkeepsie, New York.
And the names of the reindeer were actually the names of Henry Livingston’s horses.
A Visit to the Forge
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the forge
Only three creatures were stirring, in valley or gorge
Their hammers were slowing, the last hooves went bare
In hopes that the champions would soon go where
Their children lay snuggled all safe and in bed
Though visions of Calgary still danced in my head.
But Paul had his arms crossed, and Dave with a slap,
Declared we should go home for a long winter’s nap.
Click to read the rest of the poem on The Hoof Blog.
EN loves photos shot between the ears! If you happen to be out for a hack, are riding in some obscure place or just take some cool photos aboard your mount, send them to [email protected] with a quick blurb about the photo’s story. This week’s View photos come to us from California and Pennsylvania.
From Sara Beal: “This was taken during a sunset at the lovely Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, Calif. The ears belong to General Gonzo, owned by Twin Rivers Ranch’s owner Connie Baxter. The sunsets are epic here!”
Elaina Anglin: “These ears belong to Stix, my first event horse, who is coming 30 years old this winter but still enjoys going out on the trail. The picture was taken in New Florence, Pa., on the trails near where I board my horses. I got Stix as a Christmas present 16 years ago.”
It’s just five days until Christmas, and we’re teaming up with Point Two to give one lucky EN reader the present of a lifetime! Enter our Christmas Jingle Contest Presented by Point Two for a chance to win a free Point Two Pro Air Jacket valued at $675! The rules are easy: Send a jingle to [email protected] by midnight EST on Christmas Eve. The jingle must be four lines minimum, mention Point Two and have a Christmas theme. Only one entry per person, please! We’ll announce the winner here on EN on Christmas Day. And for a little inspiration to get your creative juices flowing, here’s the winning jingle from a past Point Two contest:
Ambulance bells ambulance bells coming fast for me!
My horse slipped in the snow, and I fell off you see!
Santa’s Elves Santa’s Elves let me make it clear!
I need a Point Two jacket to keep me safe next year!
Good luck, and many thanks to our awesome EN sponsor Point Two for sponsoring this contest.
EN loves STAYONS! Photo via Hamilton BioVet website.
We challenged you to break out the Christmas decorations for our Wrap Your Horse’s Legs Contest Presented by Hamilton BioVet. You all sent in some really creative entries, and we picked our favorite three. Congrats to Polly Merrill, Brooke Durham and Aimee Longhurst! You all win a prize pack from our awesome EN sponsor Hamilton BioVet with the following goodies:
STAYONS Instant Poultice Leg Wrap – Clay + Epsom Salt (pack of 4)
STAYONS Knee or Hock Wrap Support
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Clay/Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Bran/Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Poultice Boot
We love that Polly already uses and loves STAYONS, the revolutionary poultice wraps that make post cross-country care a breeze. STAYONS are a super addition to any first-aid kit, and they’re even more affordable right now thanks to Hamilton BioVet offering free shipping on all products through the end of December with the code ENFREE. Go here to check out STAYONS. Go Hamilton BioVet!
Winner #1: Polly Merrill
“This is my friend River Bend Lucille, better known as Lulu. She is 9.2 hands of gentle sweetness. She and her brother RB Percival were part of a science experiment gone very wrong. 150 of their relatives were being infected with EIA by a “veterinarian” who had the gallant idea he would cure the world of Equine Infectious Anemia. Thankfully, the Animal Rescue League of Boston was able to save 68 of these dear souls, and I have two of them! They came with body scales of (1), unimaginable internal parasite loads, lice, white line, rain rot.
“They are happy, healthy little monkeys now, but clearly Hamilton BioVet does not make suitable poultice wraps for horses whose legs are a mere 18 inches from floor to elbow! Lulu and Percy are very happy, spending their winter in Aiken. They are responsible for keeping their big OTTB friend, Matty, company. If Lulu wins the contest, she promised to give the poultices to Matty. They fit him better. We do LOVE these wraps. We used them after Millbrook in August, and Matty was extremely pleased with how his legs felt. Thanks to Hamilton Biovet for a fabulous invention and product! Merry Christmas!”
Winner #2: Brooke Durham
“Cozzy is a 2-year-old rescue mini who is aspiring to be a child’s event horse! He tolerated our sparkle garland, bows and even battery-operated Christmas lights quite well; we were impressed! Cozzy hails from Muddy Ruts Farm, owned and operated by Judi and Bill Wilson (parents of Abigail Wilson)!”
Winner #3: Aimee Longhurst
“This is Tankhouse (Dundee) showing off his classy Christmas get-up.”
Have a skijoring or sledjoring video to share during the long winter months? Send it to [email protected]!
From Kyleigh Christians:
The United States Equestrian Federation posted its holiday card in video form this week. There are several familiar faces from the eventing world represented, as well as faces from all walks of equestrian life. Enjoy, and Happy Holidays from the Eventing Nation family!
In a quest to boost her fitness for eventing, Margie Kinsinger of Akron, Ohio, is preparing for an Ironman triathlon next year. She recently got creative with her training exercises, as you’ll see in the photos below. Margie competes her 13-year-old Clydesdale/Quarter Horse mare Montana at Beginner Novice. Keeping her in shape for eventing can be a challenge, so Margie also fox hunts with the Chagrin Valley Hunt, along with long trail rides and lessons every week. Take it away, Margie!
Margie and Montana at South Farm. Photo by Brant Gamma Photography.
From Margie:
I’ve always thought of eventing as the triathlon of equestrian sports. It is a sport that requires that our horses be at their peak of fitness and fine tune their skills in three very demanding disciplines. Thinking about all that I demand from my horse, I recently decided that I owe it to myself and my horse to be the very fittest that I can be, and what better way to do it than to train for and compete in an Ironman triathlon!
Many have probably heard of the Ironman World Championships held every November in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Kona is the “Rolex” of triathlons. In order to race at Kona, you must qualify at one of only a handful of Ironman races held in different locations around the world. The race consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112 miles on the bike, and a 26.2-mile run (a full marathon), one after the other, and there is a time limit for each phase.
Athletes must complete each phase in the time allowed and complete the entire race (all three phases) within 17 hours; one second over will get you a DNF (did not finish). Similar to eventing, you have different gear for each phase, there is a water obstacle (albeit it’s a large lake or ocean), you get to wear awesome colors, you wear your personal information on your body and there are ecstatic crowds all along the course to cheer you on!
Just like I rely on the expertise of my trainer, Karen Hornyak, for our eventing success, I sought out a personal trainer, Kirsten Beverley, owner of KB Endurance, to help prepare me for my Ironman. I told Kirsten that I am giving myself a full year to prepare and my goal race will be Ironman Arizona in November 2014, two months before I turn 50 years old. Eight weeks into the program, Kirsten has me doing things I never thought possible. At the beginning of the training, I could hardly do one pushup; now I’m doing 35 in a row.
The training requires that I get up at 5 a.m. every morning and head to the gym for weight training, swim training and biking. I have one day off a week. I still have time to ride and train my horse in the evenings after work. It is very rigorous, but very rewarding. Kirsten keeps it interesting and fun. Recently, Kirsten challenged her athletes (I still find it difficult thinking myself as an “athlete”) to take a picture of ourselves doing some of our exercises and be creative. So what better way to workout than on horseback? Montana was very patient with me, as usual! She’s very thankful that mom is finally getting her @$$ in shape.
So, with the support of my family and friends, I will continue my quest for my Ironman, and hopefully this time next year I can sport a 140.6 sticker on the back of my truck, right beside my cherished EVENTING sticker!
Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro have now broken every Grand Prix dressage world record, claiming the third and final record yesterday at the London International Horse Show at Olympia. Charlotte and Valegro, whose barn name is Blueberry, already set records for the Grand Prix — 85.94% at the European Championships in Herning, Denmark, last year — and the Grand Prix Special — 88.022% at Hagen in Germany in 2012. And they brought the house down yesterday with an incredible score of 93.975% in the Grand Prix Freestyle to take the world record from Edward Gal and Totilas, who set the record on a 92.30% at Olympia in 2009.
This test is a must watch! Many thanks to EN reader Marjean for finding a video of the test over on Horse Collaborative.
Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro produced a faultless performance to win the Reem Acra FEI World Cup freestyle dressage to music, supported by Horse & Hound, at the London International Horse Show at Olympia.
In front of a packed crowd, the British partnership scored 93.975% to claim the final world record that had, until now, eluded them. The previous record of 92.30% was set by Edward Gal and Totilas at Olympia in 2009.
Charlotte said: “I came here thinking the world record was what I wanted to do — thinking it and doing it is something else. I had the ride of my life.
“I’m so lucky to have Valegro. I’d like to thank Roly Luard [Valegro’s co-owner] and Carl [Hester, co-owner] for letting me ride such a great horse. This is the best Christmas present.”
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Colleen Rutledge and Covert Rights. Photo by Jenni Autry.
Big news out of Plantation Field this morning! World renowned cross-country course designer Mike Etherington-Smith has signed on to design the 2014 CIC3* course at Plantation Field Horse Trials, the event announced in an emailed statement. One of the most accomplished course designers in the world, Mike designed the courses for the Sydney and Hong Kong Olympics, as well as the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington. With more than 30 years of international course design experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge to Plantation Field, which is clearly committed to its goal of developing this event into one of the top CICs in the U.S. Go Plantation Field!
From Plantation Field:
Plantation Field Equestrian Events Inc. is pleased to announce that world famous course designer Michael Ethertington-Smith has agreed to design the three-star cross-country course at the Plantation Field CIC held in September. In making the announcement, Denis Glaccum, president of Plantation Field Equestrian Events Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation, stated, “We are thrilled that Mike will be able to fit us into his busy schedule. The Committee feels that his designing our course is a natural step in Plantation CIC’s dedication to providing the highest competitive experience to American eventers. We look forward to his willingness to share his expertise with American eventers.”
Jacky Green sent in a fantastic recap of the Eventers Rugby Challenge, which took place at the Newbury Rugby Club in England this past weekend. While the match pitting eventers against vets and farriers hadn’t been played since the late 90s, it drew a large crowd to watch some big names battle it out on the pitch. Be sure to watch the video to see the eventers, vets and farriers in action. Many thanks to Jacky for writing, and Go Rugby!
From Jacky:
On a miserable December day, the resurrection of the Eventers Rugby Challenge took place at Newbury Rugby Club. Sadly, I am old enough to remember when it was last played, which I think was sometime in the early 90s, but today’s game had all the same hallmarks. The crowd had no idea of the rules, the boys had a slightly better idea of the rules but were short of match practice, and the vets and farriers still seemed to pull in rugby professionals! (Allegedly)
Upon arriving at Newbury Rugby Club, we were delighted to see we had been allocated No.1 pitch, as that had a covered grandstand. There was a surprisingly large turnout of watchers, perhaps due to eventers’ Twitter feeds being very full of the impending match. The players warm up was as diverse as follows: The vets and farriers (and ringers) were out practicing; the eventers were much more eclectic. Rumour has it Paul Tapner found that Burger King did it for him (hence his late arrival, see video!); Giovanni Ugulotti asked for directions and said he would be there by 4:30 p.m. (err, kick off 2:30 p.m.); and James Todd, son of Sir Mark, was detained at the Lloyd-Webber’s Christmas drinks party!
Once the rain had really started to fall, we had a start that seemed to be short of a referee. Mike Tindall had been penciled in, but was sadly called up to play himself. Proper rugby that is, not our version. Mark Corbett was held up teaching, so it was the legendary Graham Potts (AKA Potsy), Team Australian vet, veteran of International Rugby tours (also known as he’s buggered off to watch the All Blacks/ Wallabies on tour) who stepped in to referee the first half. As he came dressed in what he described as all-weather gear and I would describe as emergency calving gear (minus the ropes), he admitted he did not want to get wet. God only knows what the real rugby players thought as they trooped past our pitch and saw a referee in full flow with Veterinary Surgeon in neon print on his back.
Both teams made an inauspicious start as they exited the tunnel and skipped over the muddy puddle onto the pitch. Tom McEwen ended up looking as though he was a mud wrestler and his father, Bobby, on side for the vets, was perhaps the most enthusiastic participant.
The crowd watching was a diverse mix of wives, girlfriends and bored-on-a-Sunday groupies. I thought Georgina Tapner was displaying a huge amount of support for husband Paul until she divulged that if he got hurt, she was going to have to ride his very fresh event horses. To say that a large amount of the supporters had no knowledge of rugby rules (myself included) is an understatement. But we were reliably informed that the score ended up 12-0 to the vets and farriers. The rain fell, the team got muddier and the crowd became more vocal.
In short, it was great fun and very dirty in the best of ways. It was sponsored by Gatehouse Helmets, and all proceeds went to the inspirational Claire Lomas for her Spinal Foundation Cure. It sure beat Christmas shopping with the crowds!
Jan Byyny and Inmidair at Fair Hill. Photo by Jenni Autry.
From Jan:
I like to attend the annual meeting every year because in spite of the cost and the time away from the farm, I feel that if you’re passionate about a sport — one you make a living in or want to improve — it’s really important for riders at all levels to attend. There were some great speakers; I’ve heard a highlight was Daniel Stewart, who I unfortunately missed, but I watched the video clips of his presentations on the USEA site. He has the motivational sports psychology part down and has really great exercises geared toward rider fitness. Every level of rider would benefit from learning more about his program. [Read EN’s recap of Daniel’s session here!]
The Active Athletes, under Phillip and Buck’s guidance, is the most effective group of upper-level riders I’ve been involved with since becoming involved. These are riders working hard to make our sport better and to make difference, and I’m proud to be part of it. One focus has been to improve transparency and communication about things like selection procedures so that they are understood by everyone involved with our sport. Another area we’ve looked at is ensuring that our cross-country courses are doing the right job to prepare our horses for the level.
I’m also proud to be co-chair of the Young Rider Committee, though am so sad that Tim Murray is stepping down as my co-chair due to obligations with the Rules Committee, which he’s now on. I’m very happy to have Diane Snow take his place. It was Diane who brought forward the idea of an Emerging Athlete Program; we encouraged her to put a sub-committee together and gather the support she needed, and now we have this important program to identify and bring along young talent. As always, Vicki Fine has a done great job with the Young Rider Mentorship Program, which pairs young riders who don’t make their area championship team with event officials in order to experience the administrative side of eventing.
Another highlight of the convention for me was David O’Connor’s keynote speech. His passion for the sport was obvious throughout his entire talk, and it’s exciting to have a coach that’s so good at communicating that. He’s done a great job developing the Under 25 and Developing Riders programs, and my hope is that more attention is paid to older riders as well. I think something that was really exciting was that David started his speech stating his belief that we’re all in this sport together; it is one sport that accommodates the goals of both lower- and upper-level riders, amateurs and professionals. I couldn’t agree more.
I practice the same things that everyone else who has event horses, no matter the level, works on every day. As a four-star rider, I try to perfect the last 10 percent, but we all make the same mistakes, have the same highs and lows, and experience the same thrills whether we’re going Novice or Advanced. It was just so great to hear David say that. We should embrace our sport as one.
I was really honored to win two awards at the Convention. The first was for Inmidair, who received the PRO Horse of the Year sponsored by the Segals and in honor of My Boy Bobby. I’m so thankful for Cassie and Carl Segal’s support of our sport, and I’m proud to call them my friends. The award recognizes the horse that is most successful at the CIC and CCI levels and is weighted more heavily toward CCI results.
I was so lucky to be the recipient of a brand new award that the Segals commissioned: a beautiful glass trophy with a 3D image of My Boy Bobby etched inside and Inmidair’s name engraved on the outside. JR is completely honored to win the award; of course, he thinks he’s won at least 10 awards, and his only regret was not being there in person to give a speech. I can’t thank enough my whole team of supporters who helped to get JR to this point and who have supported me through thick and thin, particularly my Mom and Dad.
I was (almost) completely surprised by the second award. I have to be honest that I was a bit suspect of my parents and Tom both wanting to go to the meeting and thought something might be up. My Dad is on the Event Owner’s Task Force but could have called in to their meeting. By the time Saturday morning rolled around, I was completely suspicious as anyone who knows my boyfriend, Tom, would know that the last place he would want to be would be the convention; he’s very supportive, but it’s not exactly his idea of a vacation. I was humbled to win the Ironmaster Trophy in honor of Neil Ayer, who was such an influential person in our sport. I know one recipient has been Amy Tryon, and it makes me so proud that it’s something I share with her.
Back home in Virginia, I’m trying to survive the snow without an indoor. I can’t wait to go to Aiken, and we’ll be there on the fifth. Happy holidays to everyone!
Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Samantha Clark.
The fabulous Samantha Clark paid a visit to Clark and Jess Montgomery at Christian Landolt’s yard to see Loughan Glen and Universe, as well as meet the two new youngsters that joined the team. And WOW are these babies nice. You have to click over to the PRO blog to check out Samantha’s full report on what’s next for Glen and Buzz — think Badminton! — and check out photos of these gorgeous babies. She also has two video interviews with Jess. Many thanks to Samantha for keeping us up-to-date on Clark and Jess across the pond. Go PRO!
From the PRO Blog:
The quiet season did not last long for the Montgomery Equestrian Team this year, and it’s action stations again (albeit in typical Texan easy-going style of course!) at Christian Landolt’s picturesque Gloucester yard, their base for almost a year now. Both Holly Becker and Kathryn Kraft’s Loughan Glen (above), and Jess’ Universe are tentatively aimed at Badminton CCI**** next Spring, and so are already back in work.
Additionally, Clark and Jess have done their Christmas shopping early, bringing two lovely youngsters home with them after a recent trip to Germany, and eagerly awaiting the arrival of a third, this one from England and a half brother to Universe no less! Not forgetting another baby in for training, and the ISH chestnut gelding Garrison Flash who’s in work and will be hopefully campaigning at intermediate and advanced next year.
Click here to read the rest of the story on the PRO blog.
EN loves photos shot between the ears! If you happen to be out for a hack, are riding in some obscure place or just take some cool photos aboard your mount, send them to [email protected] with a quick blurb about the photo’s story. This week’s View comes to us from Tammy Karplus in Iceland.
From Tammy:
The ears belong to Enja, an Icelandic mare. We’re riding in the forest near Kiruna, in northern Sweden, above the Arctic Circle. We had just passed a moose and her calf, but they were a little too far away and too many trees to capture a picture with an iPhone.
We’ve been following along with Katie Murphy and her husband Roger — who just won the Amateur Groom Award at the USEA Convention! — as they build their dream farm in New Hampshire. Today, Katie is talking all about fencing. Feel free to send any questions to Katie at [email protected].
We have fencing!
From Katie:
Aside from price, there was one sole requirement I had for every property we viewed: land. Specifically, 10+ acres of unimproved (not built on) land that applied towards New Hampshire’s Current Use taxation. Current Use allows for the unimproved land portion of the property to be greatly reduced in value for tax purposes. In other words, the additional land may cost you more up front, but you will save thousands on your tax bill. I am a proponent for land conservation, and the privacy and protection that land offers. You can always build – but you can not create more land.
Good quality land was hard to find in our price range. Often the acreage was wet, wooded, or of poor quality for turnout purposes. When we drove up to Autumn Hill Farm and my eyes stretched to see the end of the massive, established hay fields, I had a hard time buffering my excitement. Visions of horses grazing, galloping in European-style paddocks, happily whinnying when we returned home danced before me. The land was truly exceptional. To reiterate a previous note, I don’t know how we were so lucky to find this property.
Once the ring was underway and we were under contract for our barn, I researched multiple fencing companies. Fencing is not cheap. What became increasingly frustrating was the inability to receive quotes on pricing and a timeframe for installation. In an era where the up and coming generation expects a return phone call within minutes, a text response immediately, or an email within the hour, efficient response time is not a courtesy – it has become an expectation. Then, as if magically, a friend suggested I contact Crowe Fence and Decking. Mike Crowe exceeded our expectations. When he said he would give us a quote within 24 hours for several fencing options, he did. When we arranged to meet at the property to discuss the fencing materials and lay-out, he was on time – in fact, he was even early. I was shocked. And thrilled.
We considered split rail fencing for the convenience and reduced cost compared to other options. However, our concern for safety and the longevity of this substantial investment were of utmost concern. We chose the high density polyethylene (HDPE) product by WindRiver Fence. Started in 1984 by Mike’s brother, Rick (who continues as the Owner and President) Crowe Fence and Decking has been a New England dealer for WindRiver since 2007, and they have had excellent results and reviews from their clients. This product is very popular down south, from Kentucky through Texas, and is rapidly becoming a favorite here in the north. Why do we love this fencing? It is the safest product on the market.
It will not chip, splinter, flake, shatter or break like PVC. Under pressure, the fencing with either softly bend to adsorb the pressure and then return to its original position, or it will pop out using the safety releases for each rail. And, it comes with a 20 year guarantee. I am particularly excited to know that I will never have to go out in -20 degree weather and repair fencing again. Due to expenses, I prefer to buy youngsters. When you have a youngster, there is bound to be adventure, aerodynamics, and accidental destruction. So next time Garth jumps out of the paddock, or a client’s horse is hosting a kick-and-spin party, we can rest assured that we have a safe product to help contain their exuberance.
Mike helped us design the paddocks. He was respectful of my sensitivity to maintaining the aesthetic value of the property. We talked through ideas, concerns, and long-term goals while Mike kindly guided us through design and use. The only detail Roger and I could not agree on was fencing color. Crowe Fence and Decking offers 6 different colors – I wanted black, Roger wanted white. I love the subtlety of dark fencing, quietly blending with the landscape. He loves the classic New England look, whereas I see white boards stained with mold, dirt and rain water. Roger promised that he would wipe down the fencing to keep it pristine. Really? We agreed on black.
Mike’s team installed 1100 feet of fencing in a matter of days. There was ledge in areas, which they efficiently handled with a drill, metal rod and cement. They were so pleasant, even when the Puppy Trio exploded from the house barking and with raised shackles to evaluate their progress, everyone was smiles and laughter. I was very impressed with their efficiency and attention to detail.
We chose tubular metal gates, and Mike suggested the 2-Way Slam Latch for ease and convenience. Two silver gates lead to the paddocks out the rear doors to the barn, and are hidden behind the structure. The pastures are large, and we plan to split each field in two for four total paddocks. We have dark metal gates for those pasture entrances so there is no contrast with the fencing.
We hope to fence in the large field directly behind the house, splitting it into two long European-style paddocks. Our hacking and gallop path borders that field and stretches toward the current fencing and around the riding arena. We have beautiful, old growth grass and lush landscape. We are excited to see how the property unfolds in the spring!
Caroline Culbertson of the USEA notified us this morning that the final versions of all the new 2014 dressage tests are now available on the USEA website. The USEA also published comments from Wayne Quarles, Chair of USEF Eventing Technical Committee, on the new tests, which you can read below. Go New Tests!
2014 Dressage Tests
From the USEA:
All USEF dressage tests for eventing for 2014-2018 are now available on the USEA website. The Novice Three Day dressage test, marked 2012, will remain the same.
From Wayne Quarles (Chair of USEF Eventing Technical Committee): “Following word that the FEI would not be creating new tests for this new four year period, the USEF Eventing Technical Committee put together a group of riders, judges and trainers to review our existing tests and decide whether or not they were doing the job they were intended to do: to create a progression for our riders as they move up the levels.
The group was made up of myself as Chair, Loris Henry, Sally O’Connor, Brian Ross, Gina Miles, Jon Holling, Kerry Milliken and Lilo Fore. As Brian Ross and Sally O’Connor have been the writers of the Eventing tests for several years, we felt their input was necessary for continuity. I was there as the Vice Chair (now Chair) of the USEF Eventing Technical Committee as well as being an FEI 3*/4* Eventing Judge and USEF “R” Dressage judge, rider and trainer, plus I had been on the review panel for the previous tests. Loris Henry is an FEI 3*/4* Eventing judge and USEF “S” Dressage judge, rider and trainer, had also been on the previous review panel. Kerry Millikin, Gina Miles and Jon Holling are all upper level riders and trainers who are also members of the USEF Technical Committee. Lilo Fore is an FEI 5* Dressage Judge and has been working with the USEA Eventing Judge training programs, was there to help ensure the consistency in our directives and flow.
As a group we came to the conclusion that the tests were in general doing the job intended, but could use minor adjustments in some of the movements and consistency in the directives. The result is the collection of tests we have presented. The largest change that people will notice is that there are now two tests for the Preliminary level rather than three, and Test B is in the long court. Organizers should note that Preliminary Test B in the long court is actually shorter in time than Test A.
In general, the test patterns have not changed significantly, however we feel they are correct for our sport at this time.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3W23IZo8eg
Thanks to Katie Murphy for posting this heartwarming Wells Fargo commercial on her Facebook page. As a team of stagecoach horses gallops hard across snowy roads to ensure presents arrive on time for the holidays, a little Christmas magic helps them get the thank you they deserve. Definitely worth the watch. Go Wells Fargo. Go Holiday Spirit.
James Alliston went out on his own early this year, and since then he’s established a successful lesson program while continuing to further his career as an upper-level rider. Many thanks to James for checking in with a year-end recap, and be sure to read to the end to see who he’s aiming for Rolex in 2014! Go West Coast Eventing.
This is Seven, a 4-year-old owned and bred by Kelly Hall.
From James:
This year has been eventful and memorable, as I started my own business in March. It feels like yesterday and has involved some long hours and a lot of ups and downs, but I am pleased with how it has gone and excited for the future. I would like to say a huge thank you to my wonderful clients, who make my job so rewarding and enjoyable. There seems to be a great team atmosphere amongst everyone, which is wonderful and makes not only the shows but also the day to day training fun.
The barn is unique in that it encompasses all levels of riding, from the grassroots riders in the lesson program to the advanced. Likewise, the horseflesh ranges from Milton and Daylight, the lesson ponies, to four-star horses, which I think is cool. I believe that a good riding school hinges on the lesson ponies, and I am very lucky to have Milton and Daylight, who are so reliable and integral to the success of the lesson program. It has always been a goal from the outset to establish a strong lesson program, and my partner Helen Bouscaren has done an unbelievable job in getting it going and bringing along riders from the grassroots level.
After Rolex, most of my focus was on developing the new business and also new young horses to make sure I have a sustainable string of horses for the future to take over from the older horses who cannot go on forever. I am very happy with the group of youngsters I have ready to go next year. They all seem like they have the qualities to be very good, and I look forward to seeing how they develop in the future.
The search for quality prospects is ongoing, but in the off season at this time of year, I do much more driving around looking at horses for clients and myself. I am fortunate in that there are a number of fantastic breeders somewhat nearby and also a couple of racetracks to source prospects. I feel that one of the beauties of eventing is that great horses can come in all shapes and sizes. Just looking at how many different breeds and types of horses there are at any four star is testament to that.
Next year, I hope to continue what I started this year. On the West Coast, nearly all of the shows are spread over three or four days, so it is perfectly possible to balance riding with teaching. In fact, I really enjoy doing both and going as a team to the shows. On a personal note, I will hopefully aim Tivoli and Parker for Rolex again, and the prospect of that is certainly something that motivates me and makes me want to work hard over these next few months.
How Destination Farm spends a snow day. Photos from Natalie Hollis.
We’ve featured skijoring here on EN many times, and since then our adrenaline junkie readers always send in photos and videos each winter of their modified version of the extreme equestrian sport. Natalie Hollis of Destination Farm in Dickerson, Md., sent in these photos and a video to show how her team is weathering the snow storms that hit much of the East Coast last weekend. Be sure to watch the video, which shows a pretty impressive slow-motion wipeout. Go Winter. Actually, scratch that. Go Official Countdown to Spring. Snow sucks.
Get out the wrapping paper!
Have you been enjoying Colleen Peachey’s product review series on STAYONS, the super easy and awesome poultice wraps from our sponsor Hamilton BioVet? We’ve received such wonderful feedback on these products from our readers, so Hamilton Biovet is giving away THREE prize packs to the winners of our Wrap Your Horse’s Legs Contest!
‘Tis the season for wrapping presents, and to remind you just how easy it is to use STAYONS Instant Poultice Wraps from Hamilton BioVet, we want you to wrap your horse’s legs in the most creative way possible. Think colorful holiday wrapping paper (the more ridiculous the better), lots of ribbons and bows, and all the Christmas creativity you can possibly muster.
How do you enter? Snap a photo of your wrapping creation — you must wrap at least one leg — and send it to [email protected] by Tuesday, Dec. 17. We’ll put our favorite photos up to your vote, and the top three photos will each receive a prize pack from Hamilton BioVet.
What’s in each prize pack from Hamilton BioVet? Everything you need to keep your first-aid kit stocked with these revolutionary, time-saving products. Each prize pack is valued at $80:
STAYONS Instant Poultice Leg Wrap – Clay + Epsom Salt (pack of 4)
STAYONS Knee or Hock Wrap Support
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Clay/Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Hoof Wrap – Bran/Epsom (pack of 2)
STAYONS Poultice Boot
And don’t forget that Hamilton BioVet is offering a special coupon code for EN readers through the end of December. Enter ENFREE at checkout to receive free shipping on all products on the website. Go Hamilton BioVet. And Go Contests!
This commercial instantly became a holiday classic when eBay aired it last year, and it’s still hilarious one year later. What happens when clueless parents buy their daughter a pony for Christmas? You’ll have to watch the commercial to find out. Go Ponies.
Katy Groesbeck and Oz the Tin Man. Photo by Jenni Autry.
The snowy weather prevented many people from attending the USEA Annual Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio, last weekend, including West Coast superstar Katy Groesbeck. As a result, she sadly wasn’t in attendance to receive the $30,000 Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grant at the Saturday night awards banquet in person. Buck Davidson came to the rescue by calling her and holding his phone up to the microphone so we could all hear Katy say a few words. Katy has worked incredibly hard this year, and our friends at the Chronicle of the Horse have a nice story up detailing her accomplishments. Congrats, Katy! Go West Coast Eventing!
From COTH:
Although the weather prevented Katy Groesbeck from attending the U.S. Eventing Association’s Annual Meeting and Convention in Cincinatti, Ohio, winning the $30,000 Rebecca Broussard Developing Rider Grant more than made up for the canceled flight.
“Just the fact that the Broussard family and the selection committee believed in me enough to entrust me with that kind of money and that kind of opportunity is really overwhelming,” said Groesbeck. “I think anyone who knows me knows it’s quite a big deal for me. I’m a homegrown sort of gal, and it’s been a whole family effort my entire life. It’s exciting to have the potential now to really see how far my horse and I can go. I was very sad that I couldn’t be there in person.”
Click here to read the full story from COTH.
