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Leslie Threlkeld

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Social Media Roundup: Equestrians Show Their Holiday Spirit

By on Dec 25, 2017 10:30 am -

Social media is chock full of eventers feeling festive this holiday season. We love seeing your decorations at the barn and subjecting the horses to wearing reindeer horns and Santa hats. Here are some of our favorite moments of equestrians from all across the horse nation getting into the holiday spirit. Happy Christmas to all!

Photo courtesy of Lauren Drew.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BdArHOdAL9_r6VXw8JbqjAk8l6k5OYFv0WZga80/?taken-by=hbeventing

https://www.instagram.com/p/BdGNDStly_C/?taken-by=dnolivier

Merry Christmas everyone!

A post shared by Oliver Townend Official (@olivertownendofficial) on

Photo courtesy of Nicole Hetzel.

Smile! It’s Christmas!!!! Merry Christmas to friends new and old, or near and far!

Posted by Kate Chadderton on Sunday, December 24, 2017

Last but not least: my mom’s mailbox, subjected to a new outfit every holiday.

Christmas Day News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Dec 25, 2017 12:12 am -

Doug and Jessica Payne welcomed their first child, Hudson William, into the world on Christmas Eve. The most perfect gift! Congratulations to the new parents! Photo via Facebook.

Happy Christmas, Eventing Nation! We wish you and your loved ones (two-legged and four!) a magical day of merriment and joy.

National Holiday: Christmas Day

When the ground freezes this winter, be sure and take extra precautions to protect your horse during riding or turnout. [Pro Equine Grooms]

When your horse’s winter vacation comes to an end, be sure to give him a slow but effective return to work in order to maximize his preparation for the first event of the season. [Post-Season Vacation and Pre-Season Training]

Stirrup length will affect your balance and the effectiveness of your leg aids, but did you know that horizontal stirrup placement also has an effect on a rider’s biomechanics? Adjustable stirrup bars are the next big thing in customizing a saddle for each individual rider. [Stirrup Placement and Rider Biomechanics: What’s the Link?]

Are horses as smart as humans?

Monday Video: I’m not crying, you’re crying.

The Horse Mafia®-Budweiser Clydesdales and Purina Surprise Far…

This is amazing. The Budweiser Clydesdales Horses and Purina surprised Far View Horse Rescue with a special delivery. You don’t want to miss this. <3
Source: https://youtu.be/8_IMkmY045w

Posted by The Horse Mafia on Saturday, December 9, 2017

Best of 2017 Video Countdown #7: Brett Kidding Performs ‘Sideways Things’ and More in His First Grand Prix Freestyle

By on Dec 24, 2017 3:00 pm -

Each day between now and the New Year we’re counting down the most popular videos shared on EN in 2017. The #7 spot goes to “Brett Kidding Performs ‘Sideways Things’ and More in His First Grand Prix Freestyle,” which garnered 4,381 views when it was posted on January 14, 2017.

Tristan Tucker of TRTMethod is back with another hilarious video featuring his alter ego Brett Kidding working through trials and tribulations in the dressage arena. This time Brett performs his first Grand Prix Freestyle as test rider at the Olympia Horse Show in London. Get ready for a good laugh and to fall completely in love with his horse, who is so very very well behaved (and clearly well trained) but obviously has a great sense of humor himself.

What’s In Your Arena? Presented by Attwood: A Grid with Limited Jump Standards

By on Dec 24, 2017 1:00 pm -

Grid work is a fun way to practice your horse’s footwork and your own position, especially in the winter when the footing outside the arena isn’t ideal (we’re knee deep in mud at the moment). Oftentimes grids require many standards and rails to build, however, and not everyone has that much equipment.

Lainey Ashker to the rescue!

In her latest Grid of the Day (#GOTD), Lainey builds an exercise that uses limited jump standards and rails: three oxers (six standards) and four additional ground rails. That’s all you need to set up this grid designed to improve your horse’s shape over the fence. You can also ride this exercise in both directions which is great for barns with limited arena space.

Show us how it’s done, Lainey.

Be sure to follow @laineyea for more great exercises and ride along on her adventures in eventing and dressage.

Do you have an exercise to share or is there an eventer you would like to nominate for the “What’s in Your Arena?” series? Email [email protected].

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 5 Eventers Ready for 2018

By on Dec 23, 2017 2:30 pm -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Christmas is right around the corner and the New Year following closely. If you’re like most eventers you’re already itching for the 2018 eventing season begin. Here are five horses for sale and ready to compete next year.

Jameson. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Safe, Quiet, Sound Proven Winner! 16.3hh 11y.o. Oldenburg Gelding for Sale

This fantastically talented horse would make the perfect partner for a Junior/Young Rider or Adult Amateur that wants to enjoy winning in the Jumpers, Hunters, Big Equitation, Eventing or Dressage.

Tons of show ring experience with a Junior rider in the 3’6″ Hunters. Competed through Training Level Eventing, consistently wins the dressage, brave and honest on cross country, and easily floats around the show jumping.

He ready to move up to Preliminary and has the attitude and ability to keep moving up the levels successfully and safely or continue to win at the lower levels with an amateur, junior or young rider.

Trustworthy on the trail in a group or alone with no spook or misbehavior of any kind. No Vices. Loads, Clips, Ties. Recent vetting available. Located in California.

Sultry Cat. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Sultry Cat

Sultry Cat is a 16hh 2012 OTTB. Sultry Cat loves his new job and is ready to do beginner novice eventing, training level dressage or small hunter courses. He loves to go on adventures especially if they include going through water.

He has three lovely gaits with a very well balanced canter. Sultry Cat has been to a hunter pace and an eventing derby. He was very brave and careful at both of these events.

Sultry Cat hacks out in a group or alone on a loose rein as well as has been ridden bareback. Sultry Cat is very athletic and looks forward to finding a person that will enjoy him as well as take him to the “big kid” shows. Located in Kentucky.

Clydesdale Cross. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

SAFE, BOMBPROOF Clydesdale Cross

Proudly offered for sale, beautiful and athletic Clydesdale Cross. Thor is a 13 y/o, 17.1 hands gentle giant. Amateur friendly and will literally do whatever you ask. He is a perfect babysitter as well as a get up and go for a more advanced rider.

Always in the ribbons and throws down a lovely dressage test. He has also been fox hunting and never bats and eye at anything while keeping up with all of the thoroughbreds. Loves the hounds!

Has been used in a lesson program as well for the Indiana University Equestrian Team.Thor would make and excellent dressage, low level eventer and/or fox hunter.

He is always getting attention for his good looks and friendly demeanor. Stands for farrier, clips, baths, ties to trailers. You name it, he will do it. Don’t let this guy get away, he is the whole package! Located in Indiana.

Sweet Georgia Brown. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

WINNING BN Packer! Proven record – with talent for MUCH more!

Sweet Georgia Brown is a 14.2hh Mustang Gelding ~10 yo. He has evented through Novice, consistently placing in the top 3 at every event! He started competing at recognized horse trials in March of 2016 and qualified for the American Eventing Championships where he finished 3rd in the Junior Beginner Novice division with a rider in her first year of eventing as well.

Sweet Georgia Brown is an absolute pleasure to ride – especially to jump! Point, and shoot. This guy will carry you around a course. He knows his job, and absolutely loves it! Perfect for an Adult Amateur looking to stay at the lower levels and be very competitive, or a young rider that would like to move up the levels – he’s got plenty of scope with a high jump record of 4’9,” so far!

Sweet Georgia Brown also excels on the flat with 3 very correct, rhythmic gaits. He is schooling second level movements. He is ready for a Training level eventing move up as soon as his new rider wants to take him there. He has schooled much of the Intermediate cross country course at Poplar Place and is absolutely game.

When not competing and jumping the moon, Sweet Georgia Brown is an excellent lesson horse. He has taught beginner riders the basics and helped adult riders gain confidence jumping. Prior to 2016, he did a little of everything from being an adult riders dressage horse, teaching IEA kids to ride and jump, and being a family pony.

He travels perfectly and stands quietly for the farrier. He also loves a long bareback trail ride in his halter alone, or with friends. Super sound and has great feet. He can go barefoot or shod, depending on your preference. An easy keeper in every way. Up to date on all shots and coggins. Located in Georgia.

Trendy. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Young Imported Gelding Ready for His USA Debut!

This flashy 5 yr old, 16.3hh Irish Sport Horse gelding, sired by Future Trend, has a bright future ahead of him with upper-level talent! Trendy has experience foxhunting, eventing, and show jumping in Ireland.

He has a swinging walk, expressive trot, and an uphill and ground-covering canter. His jump is catty, with a forward but adjustable way of going to his fences.

Trendy has a very willing temperament and a great work ethic, making him ideal for a young rider, adult amateur, or professional. He goes all three phases in a snaffle, and is well-mannered in the barn. Located in New Jersey.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Mackenna Shea Awarded Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant

By on Dec 23, 2017 9:09 am -

Mackenna Shea and Landioso. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The USET Foundation awarded 25-year-old Mackenna Shea with the 2017 Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant. This award is given in memory of Amanda to an emerging athlete with the talent and ability to represent the U.S. on the world stage.  Mackenna will receive up to $5,000 to use towards training expenses over the next year.

“It’s a huge honor and I was totally surprised,” Mackenna said. “I had a really good year, but I had a lot of support and I have a really great horse. It’s very rewarding to be considered for something like this and I hope next year is even better!”

Mackenna spent the summer competing in Europe thanks to the Karen Stives Eventing Endowment Fund Grant. While there, she and her 15-year-old Bavarian Warmblood, Landioso, competed at the Barbury Castle CIC2* and finished 24th at the Burghley CCI4*.

The pair has been competing at the three-star level since 2011 with numerous top finishes. They completed their first four-star last year in Kentucky where they finished 29th. Mackenna plans to return to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event in the spring.

“I am planning to going out Florida in late February and I hope to use the grant to help me get out there and pay for lessons,” Mackenna said. “That’s going to be a huge benefit for me, not having to worry about how I am going to make it work. I am going to use that as preparation for Kentucky, hopefully.”

[USET Foundation Awards 2017 Amanda Pirie Warrington Grant to Eventing Athlete Mackenna Shea]

Best of 2017 Video Countdown #9: Chincoteague Island Pony Swim Drone View

By on Dec 22, 2017 5:00 pm -

Each day between now and the New Year we’re counting down the most popular videos shared on EN in 2017. The #9 spot goes to “Chincoteague Island Pony Swim Drone View,” which garnered 3,568 views when it was posted on August 30, 2017.

Made famous by the endearing “Misty of Chincoteague” novel by Marguerite Henry, the annual Chincoteague Island Pony Swim is a well-known and much loved tradition.

Every summer, the Saltwater Cowboys swim the wild ponies of Assateague Island across the channel to Chincoteague Island on the Virginia coast. The roundup and subsequent auction helps to control the overall size of the herd and is fundraiser for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.

Attending the event, which can really be more described as a festival, to watch the swim and potentially bid on a pony during the auction is a childhood dream that many of us have likely carried to adulthood.

2017 marked the 92nd Chincoteague Island Pony Swim. Check out this incredible drone footage that gives us a birds-eye view!

Have you every been to the Chincoteague Pony Swim, EN?

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: How Michael Jung Spends the Eventing Off-Season

By on Dec 20, 2017 4:30 pm -

 

FischerSolution erreicht den 11. Platz im Rolex Grand Prix über 1,60m💪🏼✨🎉
Es war ein wahnsinns Gefühl diesen Parcours mit ihr zu reiten 🚀
fischer group

Posted by Michael Jung on Sunday, December 10, 2017

One might be fooled into thinking Michael Jung would take time off from being completely amazing and enjoy a quiet winter break, but you don’t become World Number 1 by laying on the couch and drinking hot chocolate until spring.

While the eventing season is on a short holiday, Jung has been honing his skills in the jumper ring. It’s no secret he competes regularly in pure show jumping, but lately he’s appearing on some of the sport’s biggest stages.

At the 1.60m Rolex Grand Prix of Geneva in Switzerland earlier this month, where Kent Farrington won the star-studded division aboard Gazelle, Jung and the 8-year-old Westphalian mare fischerSolution finished 11th after a gorgeous round with just one rail down at the second to last fence. Watch their round above and click here to watch the entire class.

What could be next for Jung? Do you think he might tackle an Olympic path in show jumping?

Feeding IR or Cushing’s Horses?

Ask your vet about NutrientWise™.

NutrientWise:

  • Adds essential vitamins and minerals that counter the effects of oxidative stress caused by normal metabolism and exercise. The harder a horse works, the more nutritional support it needs.
  • Contributes essential vitamins and minerals to a diet containing mostly hay, hay cubes or fiber pellets. This is especially important in diets where grass and grain is limited due to metabolic disease or weight control.
  • Delivers vitamins and minerals that support a robust immune system in horses of all ages.
  • Fills in dietary gaps for horses that are not eating recommended levels of fortified concentrates (pellets or sweet feeds).
  • Maintains adequate nutrient levels to support the healing of tissue and bones in horses that are recovering from illness or injury and are on restricted diets.
  • Provides the supplementation necessary to protect the nutritional status of both the mare and her foal during the last trimester of pregnancy and lactation.
  • Supplies additional vitamins and minerals to support the rapid bone and muscular growth in young horses

For more information, visit KPPvet.com.

 

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: Five Holiday Horses

By on Dec 17, 2017 3:00 pm -
Victoria. Photo via Sport Horse Nation. Victoria. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Just because you’ve been doing a little extra holiday spending doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself! If you’ve been looking for a new partner and you’re on a budget, here are five horses for sale for under $10,000.

Victoria. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Victoria Alexes ’08 TB Mare – Smart, Willing, Talented Partner!

Victoria is a lovely 2008 OTTB mare looking for a partner. She has been restarted on the flat and over small courses, up to 2’6?. She is 100% a KICK ride!! She has 3 wonderful gaits with a particularly easy, rolling canter. Victoria has been in professional training since August and is making steady progress.

She is schooling Training/1st level with correct leg yields and shoulder in. She has been for her first XC schooling outing and was very brave to the water and ditch on her first try! This girl is going to make an excellent partner for someone. Once she understands her job, she puts her whole heart into it.

Victoria is an excellent jumper. Steer her to the line and she’s virtually point-and-shoot which is a lot to say for a horse that’s only been jumping for a few short weeks! Easy flying changes and a steady rhythm around a course make her a great candidate for a hunter program.

Victoria would be best suited for a confident rider, but does not require a large skill set. She is uncomplicated both on the flat and to jump. She is easy to load, groom, and stands well for the farrier and the vet. Easy keeper. Sound. Great feet! Located in Georgia.

Winnie. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Foxhunter/Jumper/Eventer Type- 2009 Dark Bay TB

Winnie is a 2009 TB Mare standing at 16 hh. Dark bay, almost black, with beautiful dapples, two white socks and a large star. She is built more like a warmblood with a muscular neck and haunches & she holds her weight easily.

Winnie is an excellent & brave jumper, also very brave on xc. She loves the excitement of it & has the endurance & willingness to perform & do well in many arenas. Winnie has been schooling & competing locally at the 3 ft level jumpers, has been competing in beginner novice/novice events, schooling some training level xc & is ready to move up with the right rider.

Absolutely has upper level potential. Has automatic lead changes, very naturally balanced, slow canter, not your typical short strided TB, extremely showy and expressive trot. She has free jumped up to 4’9″.

She is very personable & in your pocket, calm on the ground, she loads & trailers well, stands for vet/farrier, clips well, she does well in new environments, great out in the pasture, doesn’t tear up blankets or get very dirty, stays sound, etc.

Under saddle she tries very hard to please her rider. She has never offered to rear or buck, ever. She is very willing to decorative jumps & has never stopped at a spooky jump, would make an EXCELLENT fox hunter. Ditches, brush, trakehners, banks down into water, banks up, you name it…no stop at anything even her first tries.

She is just looking for her competitive rider to put in the time to take her up the levels. Would be fine for an intermediate/amateur rider who has a trainer. Had a clean vet check when I bought her and no problems since, clean tight legs. I am confident she is very sound for many years of jumping as she has been brought up very slowly.

Selling at no fault of her own, no time due to work. Price negotiable as I have NO time. I am more concerned with her getting the PERFECT long term home that will adore her. The type of mare that will die for her rider once the connection is there. Located in Kansas.

Vino. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Looking for a horse of a lifetime?

Vino is WOW, he is the total package. With his striking good looks he oozes class, and is as sweet and gentle as they come. THIS IS SOMEONE’S HORSE OF A LIFETIME. This horse has never done anything wrong, he is incredibly balanced, has nearly an auto lead change.

Vino could go any direction, just looking at him and watching him stay in rhythm to any fence, you see a hunter; take him xc schooling and watch him strut around the dressage ring you see a top class event horse. He is brave, he is SUPER safe, and he is the sweetest horse in the barn.

Excellent ground manners, very sound, with good feet. He requires NO PREP to ride or take off the property. He can have several days off and he is still the same sweet calm horse. He has been extensively trail ridden, and been to two small schooling shows, and also several other off the farm trips.

He is currently schooling 2’3″-2’6″ courses, he is ready to take out for the 2018 season. He does not require a professional or a super strong rider, AA or YR friendly! Located in Kentucky.

Sheldon. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Upper Level Potential

Straight Sugar “Sheldon” is a 11 year old Thoroughbred gelding. He has evented through Novice and will be ready for Training in spring 2018. Sheldon would also make a lovely jumper. He has a very bold and enthusiastic jump. He is consistent and easy on the flat but does need a rider with experience.

Sheldon hacks alone or in company and stands well for vets and farriers. Self loads/unloads from trailers! Excellent ground manners! Available to be seen at Antebellum Farm in Lexington, KY.

Valdero. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Valdero 2014 TB

Valdero is a 16.1hh 2014 TB by the same sire as American Pharoah. Valdero was started in August and is loving his new job. Valdero is ready to go beginner novice, training level dressage or do small hunter courses. Valdero has good jumping form with a great hind end and takes you to the jumps. He is very brave and hacks out alone or in a group on a loose rein.

Valdero loves to go on adventures off property. He has enjoyed going to the CKRH charity trail ride, a hunter pace and an eventing derby. Valdero has been ridden bareback and rides exactly the same as he does while under saddle. Valdero is oozing with talent, has an amazing personality and can’t wait to find his long term home. Located in Kentucky.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Erin Sylvester’s Ride of the Day

By on Dec 13, 2017 4:00 pm -

Erin Sylvester won the $30,000 Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant last weekend at the USEA Year-End Awards. We’re delighted for her, so we’re throwing it back to her cross country round at the 2017 Kentucky Three-Day Event with Mettraise.

Erin and Spike and Jeanne Sylvester’s 13-year-old Thoroughbred mare won the Land Rover Best Ride of the Day. They crossed the finish line right on the optimum time of 11 minutes 17 seconds for a double clear round in the mare’s first four-star!

The “Big Becky” grant has been a game-changer for every rider to have won it, and we can’t wait to see where it will take Erin!

The feeling you get when it’s just you and your horse

It’s why we do what we do.

Fight back against an energy crisis that can impact condition and performance

Equi-Jewel® is a high-fat, low-starch and -sugar formula that was developed to safely meet the energy needs of your horse. Whether you have a hard keeper that needs extra calories to maintain his weight, or a top performance horse that needs cool energy to perform at her peak, Equi-Jewel can meet your horse’s needs. Equi-Jewel reduces the risk of digestive upset, supports optimal muscle function, maintains stamina, and helps horses recover faster after hard work, all while providing the calories your horse needs to thrive.

The fat found in rice bran is an extraordinary source of dietary energy. In fact, fat contains more than two times the energy that carbohydrates and proteins do, thereby fueling horses more efficiently. Fat is considered a “cool” feedstuff because it does not cause the hormone spikes that lead to excitability. Adding stabilized rice bran to your horse’s diet allows you to decrease the amount of starchy concentrates (grains) you feed, reducing the risk of colic and laminitis resulting from grain overload. Equi-Jewel is an excellent source of calories for horses on low sugar and starch diets.

It is why the horse that matters to you matters to us. Not sure which horse supplement best meets your horse’s needs? We are here to help. Contact Kentucky Performance Products, LLC at 859-873-2974 or visit our website at KPPusa.com.

USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship Returning to Virginia in 2018

By on Dec 13, 2017 11:00 am -

All smiles from the Clemson Tigers, winners of the 2017 USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The USEA has announced that the USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Championship will return to Virginia Horse Trials (VHT) in Lexington, Va. May 24-27, 2018.

VHT hosted the first two years of the Intercollegiate Championship in 2016 and 2017. It was a brand new concept at the time but still wildly successful, with 10 schools and 10 teams at the inaugural Championship rising to 17 schools and 21 teams in the second year.

“We are thrilled to have the Intercollegiate Championship return to Virginia Horse Trials for one more year. To have participation more than double in the first two years of the Championship was very exciting and we look forward to continued progress in 2018,” said VHT Organizer Andy Bowles.

“It has been wonderful to be involved in the development of the Intercollegiate program. The enthusiasm from the students and the support of parents, coaches, and school faculty indicates that the future is bright for the Intercollegiate program. We are thankful to have played a part in that and hope to play a part in the future.”

Following the 2018 edition, the USEA will accept expressions of interest from organizers to determine the location of the 2019-2021 Intercollegiate Championships. The Championship will continue on a three-year venue rotation in order to “spread the concept and vary the ability of colleges and universities potentially limited by proximity to attend.”

“The Intercollegiate Program and its Championship are very important to the USEA. It is a central component of our larger strategic plan,” said USEA CEO Rob Burk. “In the first two years of the Championship, getting the right host site was vital. The Virginia Horse Center along with organizer Andy Bowles, team coordinator Leslie Threlkeld, and the whole team from the Virginia Horse Trials have knocked it out of the park! We are excited to have one more year of the Intercollegiate Eventing Championships in Virginia.”

Texas A&M, winners of the 2017 Spirit Award. Photo by Rob Burk.

During the Intercollegiate Open Forum at the USEA Convention last week, the Intercollegiate Committee reported that in 2017, there were 215 USEA members who received the discounted Collegiate Membership and 33 colleges and universities registered as affiliates, which makes those schools eligible to compete at the Intercollegiate Championship. In 2017, 23 of those affiliates sent teams to a either the Championship or an intercollegiate team challenge (or both).

The Intercollegiate program is strong on the East Coast with Areas 2, 3 and 8 have the most affiliates (six or more) while Areas 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7 have only one or two affiliates. Areas 9 and 10 have none. Reaching out to event organizers and schools in the less active areas in order to promote the Intercollegiate program is a focus of the Committee going forward. 

Are you interested in joining an Intercollegiate Eventing Team? Click here to see if your school is already a registered affiliate with the USEA.

Want to start a team at your college or university? The Intercollegiate Committee has created a guide to assist students in forming teams at their college or university and also a guide to assist organizers in running a collegiate team challenge at their event. Those documents are available on the USEA website here and here. 

We’re huge fans of the Intercollegiate Program here at EN and we’re so excited to watch this program thrive!

[USEA Intercollegiate Championship Will Return to Virginia Horse Trials in 2018, Bid Process to Determine Future Venue]

Eventers Celebrated at 2017 USEA Year End Awards

By on Dec 10, 2017 1:52 pm -

Sarah Broussard presents Erin Sylvester with the Rebecca Broussard International Developing Rider Grant. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Last night eventers celebrated one another’s achievements and contributions to the sport during the 2017 USEA Year-End Awards at the Westin Long Beach hotel in Long Beach, California. James Wofford once again MC’d the event and USEA President Carol Kozlowski congratulated each recipient on stage.

Madeline Backus is the Advanced Young Adult Rider of the Year. She also won the $10,000 Rebecca Broussard National Developing Rider Award and the inaugural Wilton Fair Grant, given to a rider 29 and under who has not yet ridden for a senior U.S. team. Pictured with Carol Kozlowski and Brian Sabo. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

Click here for a full list of winners and here for the 2017 leaderboard. Keep scrolling for a gallery of highlights. Congratulations to all! Go Eventing.

#USEAConvention: Website, Open Meeting Schedule, Committee Meeting Schedule, Live Stream, Convention Program, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Boyd Martin Brings the House Down During Keynote Address + More USEA Convention Highlights

By on Dec 9, 2017 7:52 pm -

Boyd Martin had the audience rolling with laughter during his keynote address. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The USEA Annual Meeting and Convention at the Westin Long Beach hotel in Long Beach, CA is winding down. It’s been a productive few days as the best minds in the sport have come together to discuss, brainstorm and vote on key aspects to improve and develop eventing in the U.S. It has also been an educational opportunity for USEA members as sessions have featured everything from hoof health to nutrition to entering your first FEI event.

The Annual Meeting of Members luncheon was this afternoon. CEO Rob Burk, President Carol Kozlowski and Treasurer Morley Thompson updated the membership on the status of the organization. Read more about these details in the USEA’s detailed report here.

We honored outgoing volunteers who have been integral to the running of the organization:

  • USEA Foundation Chair Kevin Baumgardner
  • Area I Chair Hilary DeAngelis
  • Area V Chair Siobhan O’Brien
  • Area VII Chair John Meriwether
  • Area VIII Chair Cathy Wieschhoff
  • Board of Governor member Katherine Cooper
  • Board of Governor member Leslie Law
  • Board of Governor Rick Wallace

We also welcomed new and renewing Board members including:

  • John Bourgoin, Area I (2018-2020)
  • Sharon Anthony, Area III (2018-2020)
  • Debra Dealcuaz, Area V (2018-2020)
  • Morley Thompson, Area VIII (2018-2020)
  • Harold “Tink” Eichell, At Large (2018-2020)
  • Doug Payne, At Large (2018-2020)
  • John Staples, At Large (2018-2020)

Next Boyd Martin took the stage to deliver his keynote address. His lively, entertaining talk had the audience in stitches as he recounted his adventurous life with horses and the path of his eventing career.

Classic Three-Day Open Forum

The USEA Classics Series keeps the traditional long format alive at events around the country. The Classic Three-Day Task Force accomplished numerous items this year and reviewed those at yesterday’s open forum as well as took questions and ideas from the membership.

Chair Gretchen Butts said the Task Force clarified the guidelines for three-days and raised the level of USEA support and promotion both in event coverage and through the Classic Corner in the USEA eNewsletter. “Each Classic has gotten the attention we feel they deserve,” Gretchen said.

Another major initiative of the task force is to create and provide resources about Classic events. Many educational articles have been gathered or written and compiled on the USEA website under the Classic heading. These resources exist to prepare horses and riders for a successful three-day experience and the development of these resources is ongoing.

Four-star event rider Colleen Rutledge was in attendance and stressed the important of the long format three-day in her own training program: “The learning experience for my horses is unlike anything else they can do. Mine do a Training Three-Day and Preliminary Three-Day. Especially for the non-Thoroughbreds, the horses start learning how to deal with themselves when they get tired.”

While the knowledge (not to mention pure joy) that is gained through participating in a three-day is extremely rewarding, the task force and fans of the long format would like to see more people get involved. “Let’s find the population the Classics have value to and capitalize on that,” Gretchen said.

Cindy Deporter, task force member and Classics organizer, reminded the room that a horse and rider finishing a long format event earn double the points on the USEA leaderboard. She added, “We make it as purely educational as we can and that really meets the mission of the USEA organization.”

Eventing Sport Committee

The USEF Eventing Sport Committee approved the selection procedures for the NAJYRC and renewed Leslie Law’s contract as Developing Rider coach has been approved. It was also noted that the Under 25 Emerging Athletes list has been approved and will be released on Monday.

The recommended World Equestrian Games selectors are Jan Byyny, Phyllis Dawson, Derek di Grazia, and Deb Furnas with Marcia Kulak as an alternate selector and Robert Costello as advisor. This list will go forward to the International Disciplinary Committee for approval.

The committee approved a rewording of EV114.5 to clarify the colors of helmets or helmet covers that are legal to wear in both dressage and show jumping.

ERA of NA Awards

Last night the Event Riders Association of North America hosted a reception and honored the following people with special awards:

  • Liz Cochran Memorial Groom’s Award – Andi Lawrence
  • As You Like It Owner’s Award – Pam Duffy and Don Trotter of Sunsprite Warmbloods
  • Audrey Wiggins – Amateur Impact Award
  • Carolyn Macintosh – Seema Sonnad Above and Beyond Personnel Award

We look forward to tonight’s dazzling awards ceremony honoring the event horses and riders who topped the leaderboards at each level, awarding life-changing grants and showing appreciation to exceptional individuals in the sport.

#USEAConvention: Website, Open Meeting Schedule, Committee Meeting Schedule, Live Stream, Convention Program, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

USEA Board of Governors: Frangible Technology, YEH Changes, New Grant

By on Dec 8, 2017 4:46 pm -

USEA CEO Rob Burk addresses the Board of Governors. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

The USEA Board of Governors met this morning for their first session at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Long Beach, CA. The Board received an overview of the status of USEA Committee happenings and the financial health of the organization. They also voted on a key rule change proposal related to frangible technology and supported the creation of a special new grant.

USEA President Carol Kozlowski opened the session with a year in review. Here is a summary of her report:

In May we firmed up an agreement with (data analysis company) EquiRatings. This will add a layer to our safety strategy that we’ve never had before. I really like the idea of having data to determine the likelihood of success or failure.

The North American Junior and Young Riders Championship (NAJRYC) continues to struggle. Jumping and dressage split off this year and when it looked like the eventing wouldn’t happen, Rebecca Farm stepped in to host it. Rebecca Farm will it once again in 2018, but the future of eventing in the NAJYRC is in question.

Two-third of the riders at the 2017 American Eventing Championship rode at Training level and below. The Tryon International Equestrian Center really rolled out the red carpet for the event.

The Young Event Horse and Future Event Horse Championships had the highest numbers yet.

There was a round table safety summit on the sport hosted by the Chronicle of the Horse (read the reports on these talks here). It is a good synopsis of where we think we are but we still have a long way to go.

Thank you to everyone involved in the effort that went into selecting the 2019-2010 AEC location. We turned over all the rocks and pros and cons. I am feeling very confident in the decision and I’m confident that our membership will embrace and flock to the Kentucky Horse Park.

USEA CEO Rob Burk shared several highlights for the organization in 2017. Here are a few key notes:

  • There were 42,851 starters and 238 events.
  • The number of starters overall are down 1.5%. Beginner Novice starter numbers are up and upper level starters are down.
  • The USEA now has a record 12,913 members.
  • USEA Membership became mandatory for Beginner Novice riders in 2017 and Director of Membership Services Jennifer Hardwick reports that there was absolutely no push back from the membership on this requirement.
  • As of November 30th there was over $230,000 raised for frangible pin research, officials education and emerging athletes. 
  • The $1 million Wilton Fair fund was established, generously donated by the Lenaburg family to support developing riders.
  • There are now over 300 Instructors’ Certification Program (ICP) certified instructors. USEA also launched the YEH ICP certifications.
  • The USEA published over 650 articles on the USEA website and had over 4.2 million unique web page views. Eventing USA magazine is published six times a year. This is the only magazine in the world dedicated solely to eventing. “I feel strongly that we will continue to host that. It is one of the best benefits we have for our members,” Rob said.

The USEA Board of Governors morning session. Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

A report from the Treasurer/VP of Admin and Finance, Morley Thompson, revealed that the USEA is “well in the black” financially even though the individual Areas showed a loss due largely to the cost of sending horses and riders to Montana for the NAJYRC.

The Board approved the incoming Area Chairs and added them as signers to Area accounts. The new Area Chairs are Sarah Adams (Area I), Cyndi Kurth (Area III), Stephanie Reimers (Area V), Rachel McCort (Area VII) and Wayne Quarles (Area VIII).

Katherine Cooper, Chair of the Nominating Committee, discussed that there has been some concern over members of the USEF Eventing Sport Committee (formerly the Eventing Technical Committee) sitting on the committee for too long (decades). The Nominating Committee feels it is important for their to be healthy turnover on this committee and are working on a process to manage that.

Kate Lokey, Director of Programs and Marketing, said that while the numbers in the Young Event Horse and Future Event Horse Championships have been healthy and growing, there are some significant changes coming to these programs based on feedback from riders, owners, organizers etc. The scoring system is being redesigned and the YEH dressage tests are being shortened. The USEA is also urging riders to go to the YEH/FEH symposiums to understand what judges are looking for.

Rule Change Proposal: Frangible Technology on Cross Country

The Eventing Course Designers and Builders Committee proposed a rule change related to frangible technology. This proposal changed the wording of EV140.9.b to the following:

At the Modified Level and above, all rail fences for which frangible technology can be employed, must use frangible technology (e.g. Frangible Pins, MIMs Clips, or any other load relieving devices). These fences include but are not limited to verticals, gates, open corners, and all open oxers in all cases. At a minimum these devices must activate with forces that have both vertical and horizontal components – the exception being the front rail at the point of an open corner, which may use a traditional forward pin.

Committee Co-Chair Tremaine Cooper clarified that the rule starts at Modified level because frangible rails have to drop a certain amount when activated and it is not always possible to achieve this requirement at the lower levels.

The Board of Governors approved the proposal with the recommendation of an extraordinary rule change (so that it may go into effect sooner than 2019). The proposal will now go forward to the USEF Eventing Sport Committee for approval.

Sunsprite Award

Pam Duffy and Don Trotter of Sunsprite Warmbloods proposed a special new award for FEI riders that are competing in the States but represent a country other than the U.S.

Pam is from Mexico and always considered Mexican eventer and show jumper Captain Mendivil-Yucupicio, a 1980 Moscow Olympic Bronze Medalist, to be her role model. Pam said he had no money and learned to ride on donkeys and mules. He died two years ago and in honor of his memory and character, she wants to sponsor a $5,000 prize and trophy made in Mexico to one person per year for the next five years.

The intention of this award is to help eligible riders who could use additional support to advance their career and spotlight people who are up-and-coming role models and exhibit the same perseverance, determination and grace under pressure that was typical of Captain Mendivil-Yucupicio.

The award would be limited to international riders competing in the U.S. in their capacity as a citizen of another nation, excluding the U.S. and its territories. Eligible riders would have to compete and finish a minimum of three FEI events within the U.S. during one competition season. Both professionals and amateurs are eligible for this award.

The Board was unanimously supportive of the creation of this award, and Rob recommended that it be sent forward to the USEA Foundation to draft an agreement.

#USEAConvention: Website, Open Meeting Schedule, Committee Meeting Schedule, Live Stream, Convention Program, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Max Corcoran: ‘Make Good Decisions!’

By on Dec 8, 2017 11:00 am -

Max Corcoran led EN’s favorite session today! Photo by Leslie Threlkeld.

During a well attended afternoon session yesterday at the USEA Annual Meeting and Convention in Long Beach, CA, renowned groom and barn manager, Max Corcoran, reminded us to make good decisions when working with and around horses. As we all know, horses are always finding new ways to get themselves into trouble and safety is paramount. Here are some of Max’s helpful tips.

  • The horse always come first!
  • Many people don’t grow up around horses and start riding later in life so they don’t get to be a barn kid and make mistakes. Help people learn!
  • In the stall:
    • Make sure double end snaps on buckets are facing the wall so the horse doesn’t catch its nose or eye.
    • In the stall or trailer, make sure hay nets are hung up high with some way to come down, like a hay net, so they don’t get their feet caught or can break it away from the wall if it does get caught.
    • Don’t surprise the horse going in to the stall or you might get kicked! Let him know you are there before going in.
  • Leading:
    • Don’t ever wrap a lead of any sort around any part of your body.
    • If you use a chain shank, don’t loop it and make a hole for a foot to get stuck through. If you use a chain shank, don’t ever tie the horse up with the chain over its nose.
  • Tying:
    • When cross tied, make sure they can break away somehow with bailing twine or safety snaps.
    • If you’re trying something new, like clipping, take them off the cross ties for the first time.
  • Turnout:
    • Shut the gate before you let the horse go!
  • Tacking Up:
    • Attach the girth to the breastplate before attaching it to the dee rings on the saddle.
    • Always run your stirrup irons up if you aren’t on so they don’t get caught on doorways, jaws, or banging on their sides.
  • Blanketing:
    • Always do the leg straps or belly straps before the neck straps. If the horse starts moving it slips off behind them instead of in front of them.
    • Turn the chest snaps in towards the horse’s chest so it doesn’t get caught on something.
    • Always do leg straps up again after you take the blanket off so the straps don’t get caught on something or hit a horse or human.
  • Trailering:
    • Do up the butt bar on the trailer before attaching the horse’s head.
    • Always close the windows on a slant load.
    • Always keep spare halter and lead ropes in the trailer.
    • Know how to change a tire and always keep a full set of spares! Check your tire pressure often!
    • Have an emergency vet kit in your trailer and located somewhere accessible.
  • Competition Stabling:
    • Mind your space and be respectful of your neighbors.
    • Don’t put your dog on a long wire lead or retractable leash where it could go after or wrapped around a horse’s legs.
  • Vet Box Etiquette:
    • Don’t set up too early or spread out too much.
    • Be helpful.
    • Pack up when you’re done.
    • Scrape the water off the horse to facilitate cooling!
  • Warm Up Etiquette:
    • Don’t start too early
    • Share the jumps
    • Be kind to volunteers!

And so many more!

#USEAConvention: Website, Open Meeting Schedule, Committee Meeting Schedule, Live Stream, Convention Program, EN’s Coverage, EN’s Instagram, EN’s Twitter

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Bridleless Cross Country Helmet Cam

By on Dec 6, 2017 4:00 pm -

Bridleless Eventing – Cross en Cordelette (Août 2017)

/!\ NOUVELLE VIDÉO – METTRE EN HD /!\

L’autre jour, nous sommes retournées sur un cross différent de celui que je vous ai montré l’autre fois.
Il s’agit du cross de Les écuries de Maret, un parcours flambant neuf, avec des obstacles allant des catégories 60 à 90, et un terrain vraiment top!. 🙂
Après un petit échauffement en sidepull, nous nous lançons directement en cordelette <3. En effet, Unseelie était légère, super à l’écoute, et super motivée, ça promettait d’être EXTRA !
Et… ça l’a été, et bien au delà de mes espérances :D! On ne s’est pas trop attardée sur les obstacles de 60, car ils deviennent vraiment trop faciles pour la belle ! ^^’ Du coup on a visé plus haut, et, comment dire: tout est passé comme une lettre à la poste ! 😀 <3 C’est qu’elle tournerait sur du 90cm les doigts dans le nez la petite ! 😛
A la fin, on a même fait un plus gros enchaînement, sur lequel on s’est vraiment fait plaisir ! 🙂
Je quitte cet endroit des étoiles plein les yeux, et je ne me lasse pas de revivre ces moments au travers des vidéos en caméra embarquée… Quelle jument extraordinaire, quelle chance, quel PUR BONHEUR !
Merci la vie de m’avoir fait croiser son chemin <3 <3.

Posted by Unseelie de Jacen & Julie on Monday, September 4, 2017

One look at the Unseelie de Jacen & Julie Facebook page and it is clear this pair’s relationship is founded on mutual trust and respect, working at liberty and with either a bitless bridle or no bridle at all. Julie carefully chronicles her journey with her mare, Unseelie de Jacen, for her online audience (primarily in French, hooray for translation technology!) and shares tons of photos and videos of their progress.

Recently, Julie and Unseelie went to Les écuries de Maret in Belgium to school the new cross country course there. After a short warm-up with a bitless bridle, they dropped the head gear entirely and tackled the course with nought but a saddle and a string around the mare’s neck.

Julie had this to say (translated) after their grand adventure, which she recorded on a helmet cam: “I’m leaving this place with my eyes full of stars, and I don’t get tired of reliving these moments through video camera footage… what an extraordinary mare, how lucky, what pure happiness!”

Follow Unseelie and Julie on Facebook. Seriously, they’re amazing.

The feeling you get when it’s just you and your horse

It’s why we do what we do.

Fight back against an energy crisis that can impact condition and performance

Equi-Jewel® is a high-fat, low-starch and -sugar formula that was developed to safely meet the energy needs of your horse. Whether you have a hard keeper that needs extra calories to maintain his weight, or a top performance horse that needs cool energy to perform at her peak, Equi-Jewel can meet your horse’s needs. Equi-Jewel reduces the risk of digestive upset, supports optimal muscle function, maintains stamina, and helps horses recover faster after hard work, all while providing the calories your horse needs to thrive.

The fat found in rice bran is an extraordinary source of dietary energy. In fact, fat contains more than two times the energy that carbohydrates and proteins do, thereby fueling horses more efficiently. Fat is considered a “cool” feedstuff because it does not cause the hormone spikes that lead to excitability. Adding stabilized rice bran to your horse’s diet allows you to decrease the amount of starchy concentrates (grains) you feed, reducing the risk of colic and laminitis resulting from grain overload. Equi-Jewel is an excellent source of calories for horses on low sugar and starch diets.

It is why the horse that matters to you matters to us. Not sure which horse supplement best meets your horse’s needs? We are here to help. Contact Kentucky Performance Products, LLC at 859-873-2974 or visit our website at KPPusa.com.

Monday News and Notes from Fleeceworks

By on Dec 4, 2017 7:00 am -

Congratulations Amanda and Rob! Photo courtesy of Megan Murfey.

It was a special wedding weekend for eventers! Cross country jump builder Rob Mobley and rider/judge Amanda Miller were married in North Carolina. Meanwhile four-star eventers Daniel Clasing and Kaitlin Spurlock tied the knot in Virginia. It’s incredible to think that a shared passion of horses brought each of these couples together. Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds!

National Holiday: National Kitten Day

U.S. Weekend Action:

Sporting Days Farm H.T. [Website] [Results]

Monday News and Notes:

Eventers have tons of stuff so we have to be fairly organized when we go to an event. A long format event, however, is a whole different ball game. There are extra phases, horse inspections and vet box to pack for. Here’s a helpful list of things you may need at a classic three-day. [What to Pack for a Classic Three-Day Event]

One might reasonably assume that an obese horse is overweight because it eats more than its skinnier pasture mate. But that may not be the case. A recent study showed obese horses may actually more active and eat less while lean horses spend more time eating and be less active. [Do Obese Horses Spend More Time Eating Than Lean Ones?]

With Samorin, in Slovakia, recently withdrawing its bid to host the 2022 World Equestrian Games, the FEI is once again seeking expressions of interest. This is not a unique scenario and the cost of running the Games is a likely reason finding a committed host is so difficult. How can we lower costs? [The bid for WEG 2022: Let’s discuss it over lunch]

Monday Video: This should be easy now that #NoStirrupNovember is over!

SmartPak’s Holiday Horse Treats Tutorial

By on Dec 3, 2017 5:30 pm -

My mom always says, “It’s not what you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas but what you eat between Christmas and Thanksgiving that counts.” It’s a passable excuse to over-indulge in the abundance of delicious baked goods that seem to always be within arm’s reach during the holidays.

If you love baking but would rather not add another yet batch of Christmas cookies to your own counter, try these holiday treats for horses. They’re easy to make, customizable and horses love them! They also make a great gift for your horsey friends.

Sport Horse Nation Spotlight: 5 OTTBs ISO a New PIC

By on Dec 3, 2017 3:00 pm -

In the market for a new four-legged partner? You may find your unicorn on our sister site, Sport Horse Nation. To help with the search, we’re going to feature a selection of current listings here on EN each week. We include the ad copy provided; click the links for videos, pricing and contact information.

Sorry for all the acronyms in the title. I just couldn’t help myself. Here are five off-track Thoroughbreds in search of a new partner in crime.

Thomas. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

FOR SALE: Perfect project! Quiet, well-started OTTB gelding

Forward Thinking, or Thomas, is an 8-year-old, 16.1-hand OTTB gelding. He has a lovely balance and would excel in the dressage ring, as an event horse, or as a jumper. He’s been off the track since Dec. 2016 and has settled into post-track life well, living both in a stall and out 24/7.

Thomas loves going off property and is very well behaved on his outings. He’s jumping 2’6″ courses at home and off property, has gone on a few hunt trail rides over the summer and been the best behaved horse despite the chaos, and has really enjoyed cross-country schooling. He’s always willing to try, and learned about water, ditches and banks pretty quickly. He could also make a nice foxhunter. Sound, no vices, easy keeper.

Thomas is ready to start his show career, wherever it might take him. Motivated seller hoping to find him his special person! Located in Virginia.

Iron Ginny. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Big Beautiful OTTB Mare Ready to Compete

Iron Ginny is an 8yr old 16.2h bay TB mare with chrome. Lightly raced and retired sound on clean legs in 2014. Purchased by non-horse people and eventually abandoned in a boarding barn. Lightly worked and trail ridden (which she loves!) until put into event training this September.

Easy going in the barn. Uncomplicated ride, but sensitive and will not tolerate a green rider. Solid dressage foundation, jumping 2’6″ with ease. Has completed one combined test at the KY Horse Park, schooled at the indoor jumper shows, and recently schooled XC and loved it! Banks, ditches, water no problem!

Nice feet, good gaits. Loads, ties, cross-ties, good for farrier. Quality mare for well-educated amateur or junior rider. Can handle a mistake at the fences. Still green, but willing. Will continue to show indoor jumpers and dressage this winter and school XC weather permitting. Located in Ohio.

Neko Lad. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

17 hand OTTB gelding

Neko Lad is a 17 hand (measured) 2013 registered Thoroughbred bay gelding. Neko came off the track this spring (sound) and was rested until about 3 months ago, when he was put into 3-4 day per week work. He is schooling training level dressage and jumping around 2’3″ courses.

He just completed his first starter trial at the elementary level, placing 4th out of 13 horses on his dressage score of 32. He was complimented many times on his excellent mind at the show. He is dead quiet, sensible and brave. He is scopey enough to run up the levels in eventing, but quiet enough to be a hunter.

He is still owned by his breeder. Sound and healthy. This is a lovely young gelding with a lot of potential and a great brain. Clean legs, great feet. In your pocket attitude. Located in West Virginia.

Summer SunTan. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

10 yr 16.2 OTTB Gelding

Summer SunTan is a laid back, easy to work with Off the track thoroughbred. He retired from racing as a 5 year old with no injuries. Has competed in many county jumpers shows with amateurs and pros. Currently competing novice level ready to move up in the spring. Scores 7s and 8s in gaits.

Owner is 83 year old widow looking to down size since she hasn’t ridden in years. Clips, ties, bathes, stands for vet/Shoer/tied at the trailer. Located in California.

Tiz Time to Shine. Photo via Sport Horse Nation.

Exciting OTTB with great mind and lots of talent – owner wants to sell before winter

Updated price – owner wants to sell before winter!! This is a steal for a horse with LOADS of talent and an INCREDIBLE brain!! Tiz Time To Shine (Tiz Now/Shine Upon) is a really lovely and level headed 5 year old OTTB gelding that’s been well restarted since coming off the track sound a year ago.

He’s schooling BN like a pro and is a straightforward ride in every way. He hacks out with a group or alone, and is easy to ride and handle. He will make a great partner for an amateur or young rider looking to event or spend time in the show ring. Located in Pennsylvania.

Listings included in this article are randomly selected and confirmed to be current and active before inclusion. Sport Horse Nation features user-generated content and therefore cannot verify or make any warranty as to the validity or reliability of information.

Saturday Video: Building Confidence on Cross Country

By on Dec 2, 2017 5:00 pm -

Leaving the comfort of home and traveling to an unfamiliar venue with a young horse can be pretty nerve wracking.  You never really know what kind of horse you’re going to have when you get out there. Will he be barn sour or overly eager? Will he insist there are trolls hiding in the ditches? Who knows! But hey, the unpredictability of baby horses is half the fun, right?

Elisa Wallace recently took several young horses to Full Gallop Farm‘s sprawling cross country course in Aiken, SC. The goal was to build their confidence, so she approached every new experience with an open mind and only two rules: no bolting and no bucking. Watch these young horses find the fun in cross country.

Julia Krajewski Accepts Administrative Sanction for Positive Drug Test

By on Dec 2, 2017 11:30 am -

Julia Krajewski and Samourai du Thot. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Last month we learned that Julia Krajewski’s horse Samourai du Thot tested positive for the controlled medication Firocoxib during the 2017 FEI European Championships at Strzegom, Poland, in August. When the B sample was also confirmed positive, Julia was disqualified from the European Championships resulting in Germany losing its team silver medal.

At the time Julia was unable to determine how Samourai du Thot had ingested the Firocoxib and maintained that neither herself nor her team was at fault.

Julia had 21 days (until November 30) to decide if she would pay a sanction to the FEI or appear before the FEI Tribunal to explain her case and has spent that time conducting an extensive internal investigation. Ultimately, she decided to accept the sanction due to insufficient evidence to prove her innocence.

“I am grateful to have been offered support and advice by two experienced experts from UK, one a specialist solicitor, and the other a toxicologist. We have reconstructed the complete routine around Sam from August, 3rd to August, 20th, to get a total review of training, feed and nutritional additions, his whereabouts and the persons present or in charge of him at any time,” Julia said in a statement on November 30.

“We had all feed in question tested for Firocoxib, with negative results. The course of events in my team and in the stable during the Championship have been investigated, the blood samples we could get hold of further analyzed, without revealing any helpful insights. I questioned our hosts at the training camp and the FEI steward in charge of the stables at Strzegom.

“To rule out mistakes of our team, the vet bills of all my horses during previous years have been checked. Equioxx or Previcox, the only medicaments which contain Firocoxib, have never been prescribed or obtained. A contamination through urine (of man or dog) can meanwhile be out ruled.”

Based on their investigation, Julia and her team determined that the controlled substance could “only have been absorbed through the pharmaceuticals Previcox or Equioxx at any one time between the dressage and cross country test at the European Championships.

“The results of these extensive investigations allow me to rule out with certainty a mistake in my own stable management. Neither me nor any person from my team or surroundings have, knowingly or unintentionally, administered one of these medicaments to Sam.”

However, because Julia was unable to explain the exact circumstances surrounding the ingestion of the controlled substance, she has accepted the FEI sanction and subsequent fine.

“According to FEI regulations, I had two options: I could accept an ‘administrative sanction’, which means paying a substantial fine and ending up with a ‘record’ in the FEI register. Or I could demand a hearing before the FEI Tribunal, which would either acquit me, or convict me to a competition ban of maximum six months (which not only applies to starts as rider, but also as a coach).

“The rider is the person who is considered responsible for the horse in every way, thus the verdict will be ‘guilty’, unless I can prove how exactly the substance Firocoxib has gotten into my horse. Being innocent myself, is not sufficient to avoid a verdict including a ban.

“I must regrettably admit that the goal ‘acquittal’ is not attainable. The evidences which we were able to collect are not sufficient to advocate an application to the FEI Tribunal. Consequently, I will accept the administrative sanction.”

Julia lamented that while the case is closed in the eyes of the FEI, she remains unsatisfied.

“I will have to ponder the consequences this incident implicates for my future. Not to know what really happened to Sam will remain a constant worry to me. The wellbeing of my horses is always my first priority, and I will take every possible measure to make sure that something like that can never happen again. I will make use of the next months to design the best possible security for my horses both at home and at competitions.”

Read Julia’s full statement here.

[Germany’s Europeans Medal in Jeopardy After Positive Drug Test]

[Germany Loses Silver Medal Following Drug Test at European Championships]

You Survived #NoStirrupNovember 2017

By on Dec 1, 2017 11:00 am -

You did it! You made it to December 1st. #NoStirrupNovember 2017 is in the bag. Let’s see how you did.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcJhURRhiXF

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcJUgmvDAJc

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcHYEvElNbz

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcJG3bsngLQ

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcIyBbBDQrL

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Pine Top Powerhouse Helmet Cam

By on Nov 29, 2017 5:00 pm -

 

Sundays helmet cam!! 😁

Posted by Carmen Schatte on Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Carmen Schatte and her Dutch Warmblood mare Lady Elvira won a Training division at the 2016 Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials. They returned to the venue last weekend, one year stronger and one level higher. They led the Open Preliminary division from the start and ended on their dressage score of 30.5 to once again win the holiday weekend and qualify for a one-star.

“Our hard work payed off,” said Carmen, who owns and operates her own mobile pet spa, Wet Paws Mobile Spa. “Long work days turned into late night rides and being on top of her training and gallop schedule. She’s the fittest she’s ever been and our hard work has been more than rewarding.”

Some riders talk the entire way around the course, but this is a quiet, focused pair. All you can hear in their helmet cams is the wind screaming by, the smooth rhythm of hoofbeats and horse breath, and the occasional ‘whoa’ from Carmen to rebalance her eager mount. But Carmen breaks the spell when she realizes they’ve got their bogey fence—a huge trakehner of a turn—in the bag.

“One of the most terrifying yet greatest moments of the last four years with this powerhouse of a horse,” Carmen said. “Six strides out I was ready to throw up, but she generously took the reins from my fingers and said ‘I got this mom, just hold on!’ for a foot perfect take off and landing. Mid-air I was screaming ‘GOOD GIRL!!’ That’s my unicorn!”

Hang on to your hat and watch this powerhouse couple tear it up on course on Pine Top.

The feeling you get when it’s just you and your horse

It’s why we do what we do.

Fight back against an energy crisis that can impact condition and performance

Equi-Jewel® is a high-fat, low-starch and -sugar formula that was developed to safely meet the energy needs of your horse. Whether you have a hard keeper that needs extra calories to maintain his weight, or a top performance horse that needs cool energy to perform at her peak, Equi-Jewel can meet your horse’s needs. Equi-Jewel reduces the risk of digestive upset, supports optimal muscle function, maintains stamina, and helps horses recover faster after hard work, all while providing the calories your horse needs to thrive.

The fat found in rice bran is an extraordinary source of dietary energy. In fact, fat contains more than two times the energy that carbohydrates and proteins do, thereby fueling horses more efficiently. Fat is considered a “cool” feedstuff because it does not cause the hormone spikes that lead to excitability. Adding stabilized rice bran to your horse’s diet allows you to decrease the amount of starchy concentrates (grains) you feed, reducing the risk of colic and laminitis resulting from grain overload. Equi-Jewel is an excellent source of calories for horses on low sugar and starch diets.

It is why the horse that matters to you matters to us. Not sure which horse supplement best meets your horse’s needs? We are here to help. Contact Kentucky Performance Products, LLC at 859-873-2974 or visit our website at KPPusa.com.