Classic Eventing Nation

8 Summer Must-Haves For Every Eventer

By on Jun 9, 2015 1:00 pm -

When it comes to clothes shopping, I’m much more of a thrift store junkie than a haute couture connoisseur. I just don’t have the patience to mall crawl, and spending more than $10 on everyday jeans that will just get covered in mud and manure just seems silly to me.

But when it comes to shopping for riding clothes and gear for my horses, give me the Internet or give me death. There’s just something satisfying about perusing fun products online and depleting my bank account buying things with a single click. I’ve been known to buy more saddle pads and bridles than I need and to drop some big bucks on those comfortable and flattering high-end breeches to wear at shows. Call it a guilty pleasure. Perhaps an addiction.

Now that summer is right around the corner and many of us are spending every conceivable free moment with our horses, it’s time to highlight some awesome and affordable summer essentials for you and your horse!

1. Dark Jewel Designs Custom Browbands

Fully custom browbands include two interchangeable strands of beads. Photo courtesy of Dark Jewel Designs Facebook page.

Fully custom browbands including two interchangeable strands of beads. Photo courtesy of Dark Jewel Designs.

When I first heard of Dark Jewel Designs Browbands, I knew I had to have one (or two … or more …). Customers can order fully-customized browbands in their choice of size, leather color, and bead colors and styles. Each browband comes with two interchangeable strands of beads so you can change up your look. You can also order extra bead strands, matching stock pins and bracelets. All are very reasonably priced, with custom browband sets starting at $50.

In case those aren’t enough reason to check out this small equestrian business, customers can get 15% off their orders by using the code “SUMMERFUN15” at checkout. This code is good through tomorrow, June 10, so don’t miss this deal on a one-of-a-kind custom creations.

2. Athletux Inspiration Gear

This comfy V-neck T-shirt offers words of inspiration for us all. Photo courtesy of Athletux.com.

This comfy V-neck T-shirt offers words of inspiration for us all. Photo courtesy of Athletux.

Athletux is known for its PR and marketing services for top eventers, but did you know that they also offer a sleek and inspirational line of clothing? One thing I love about these shirts is that they sport meaningful sayings without appearing ostentatious, whether you want to remind yourself to follow your dreams or inspire greatness in others.

Comfortable and practical, the T-shirts are feminine and form-fitting, and the lightweight tank tops have a modern, more relaxed fit. Whether you wear yours at the barn, to the gym or out and about, you can make a meaningful statement with Athletux shirts.

3. Swanky Saddle Monograms

Tired of the same old name plates? Check out these gorgeous monograms from Swanky Saddle. Photo courtesy of Swanky Saddle Co.

Tired of the same old name plates? Check out these gorgeous monograms from Swanky Saddle. Photo courtesy of Swanky Saddle Co.

Swanky Saddle Co. raises the bar for personalized gear. I’m in love with their line of monogram saddle plates — choose from one of their gorgeous designs to create a classy yet unique way to personalize your saddle. You can also create custom monograms for countless other items, such as bridles, belts, breeches, helmets, riding crops, tack trunks, saddle pads and much more.

4. Horse Quencher 

Photo courtesy of Horse Quencher.

Photo courtesy of Horse Quencher.

It’s one thing for us to bring an extra water bottle or Gatorade to the barn to stay hydrated on those hot days, but how do you ensure that your horse is drinking enough, too? My gelding in particular has always been picky about his water and has even fallen very ill a couple of times over the years due to dehydration.

Now, I never take him on a camping trip or to a show without Horse Quencher, which turns an ordinary bucket of water into a delicious drink that my horse eagerly slurps up. This all-natural product has truly been a life-saver and works especially well when paired with electrolytes for those extra hot or strenuous days.

The website offers Horse Quencher in various sizes, from single-serving bags to 20-pound buckets. You can also choose from four flavors (apple, butterscotch, peppermint and root beer).

5. Impulsion Clothing 

This phrase is music to my ears, and now I can wear it with pride. Photo courtesy of Impulsion Clothing's Facebook page.

This phrase is music to my ears, and now I can wear it with pride. Photo courtesy of Impulsion Clothing’s Facebook page.

Impulsion Clothing offers fun, sassy designs for eventers, from their famous “3, 2, 1… Have a Great Ride” shirts to (my personal favorite) their “Why Eventing? Because Bull Riding Lasts Only 8 Seconds” shirts. I mean, seriously. Look at this design and tell me that this isn’t true:

Perfection. Photo courtesy of Impulsion Clothing's Facebook page.

Perfection. Photo courtesy of Impulsion Clothing.

This company also can design and print custom shirts, so if your barn, show or club needs one-of-a-kind clothing from a small business with a track record of great customer service and affordable prices, be sure to check them out!

6. Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets

Protect your horse from bugs with lightweight, breathable and colorful fly bonnets. Photo courtesy of Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets.

Protect your horse from bugs with lightweight, breathable and colorful fly bonnets. Photo courtesy of Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets.

So I’m a sucker for innovative small businesses that offer affordable and custom-made products. Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets is a company that I’ve been a fan of for years. Using ordinary (and not-so-ordinary) cotton bandanas, Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets come in countless fun patterns and in sizes from pony to draft to mule (yes, mule).

Whether you want a classic pattern or something a little more crazy, they carry it all. For instance, there are whole categories in the store devoted to animal prints, college logos and fun prints (which run the gamut from polka dots to sock monkeys and everything in between).

Thanks to Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets, my Batman obsession extends to my horse's gear as well. Photo by Mary Zuhn.

Thanks to Ear Me Now Fly Bonnets, my Batman obsession extends to my horse’s gear as well. Photo by Mary Zuhn.

I’ve ordered fly bonnets from Ear Me Now several times, whether it’s a fun design for my own horse or gifts for friends. I’ve always been pleased with their customer service, not to mention the pricing. Fly bonnets start at a mere $7.50, and there are so many fun patterns and options to choose from that it’s easy to order several bonnets without breaking the bank.

7. Denim Breeches from Tredstep Ireland

These sleek and stylish denim breeches come with contrasting knee patches in navy or red. Photo courtesy of SmartPak.

These sleek and stylish denim breeches come with contrasting knee patches in navy or red. Photo courtesy of SmartPak.

Remember when I said that I’m reluctant to spend more than $10 on jeans for fear of them getting grungy at the barn? Scratch that. When I saw the Tredstep Denim Knee Patch Breeches on SmartPak, I may have drooled a little. From the flattering, stretchy fit to the contrasting knee patch (red is my favorite color, but they also come in a classy navy), these breeches are both practical for schooling and also stylish enough to wear out and about when you’re not at the barn.

At less than $100, they are also one of the more affordable denim breeches out there. And (most importantly, or perhaps most practically) they come with pockets — four, to be exact. Tredstep Ireland also has a full seat version of these breeches, also available at SmartPak.

8. Tredstep Symphony Verde Men’s Knee Patch Breeches

Tredstep Ireland makes high-quality and innovative breeches for men, too. Photo courtesy of SmartPak.

Tredstep Ireland makes high-quality and innovative breeches for men, too. Photo courtesy of SmartPak.

In case there are any eventing dudes out there starting to feel left out, never fear! Even though the men’s section of many tack stores might leave male shoppers wanting, our friends at Tredstep Ireland come to the rescue with their effective blend of comfort and technology to help clothe riders worldwide.

The Tredstep Symphony Verde Breeches are great for schooling and shows, with a breathable and stretchy fabric infused with their awesome Schoeller Nanosphere technology that makes mud, sweat and coffee stains things of the past. The design also features padded knee patches and streamlined cuffs for a close contact fit under tall boots.

Guys can enjoy these state-of-the-art breeches for $149.95 at SmartPak, which I think is a pretty great deal considering the prices of some other brands and styles that might not offer the same level of fit and function.

What are some of your summer must-haves? Leave a comment below to enable us. Go Shopping. Go Summer. Go Eventing.

What A Difference A Year Makes

By on Jun 9, 2015 11:00 am -

Athletux guest writer Lauren Billys will represent her native Puerto Rico at the 2015 Pan American Games aboard Castle Larchfield Purdy after qualifying at the Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event with a 16th-place finish in their first CCI3*. Follow along with Lauren's journey to compete in the 2016 Olympic Games on her website and Facebook page.

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy at Jersey Fresh. Photo by Jenni Autry. Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy at Jersey Fresh. Photo by Jenni Autry.

About a year ago, I had just acquired the ride on Castle Larchfield Purdy while living in Fresno, California, with a full-time horse training business. I was competing two mares named Ballingowan Ginger and Jitter Bug, who I loved very much, and was content. If I were given a snapshot of my life now in 2015 one year ago, I wouldn’t have the first clue how I got here.

I knew if I wanted to better myself and continue to grow and develop as I rider, I needed to embrace change, so I made the decision to say goodbye to many remarkable clients and move to Carmel Valley to be closer to my coaches, Bea and Derek Di Grazia. That mixed with both of my longtime partners selling within two weeks of my move to fantastic new homes shook things up to say the least. Each month that followed has contained a whirlwind of new changes and their accompanying emotions.

After a quick trip to England, I brought home a new horse, Marseille, in March. He’s a terrific new partner that completed the Blenheim CCI3* in 2014 with four-star rider Matthew Heath. In May, I completed my first CCI3* with Castle Larchfield Purdy at Jersey Fresh.

Now, as I push forward to forge a partnership with Marseille and prepare for the Pan American Games, it is hard for me to pinpoint what exactly has been the biggest change of them all. It may be wrapped up in the details of getting to work with my coaches on a daily basis, eating healthier or trying to learn to sleep in a house alone for the first time in my life.

Lauren Billys and Marseille look like they just stepped out of a catalogue, but no, they just finished a 2*! Photo by Lauren Billys.

Lauren Billys and Marseille at Copper Meadows. Photo courtesy of Lauren Billys.

In the midst of all these changes, key events have stuck out in my mind. Getting the opportunity to travel to New Jersey and ride amongst the best riders in the United States was certainly one of them. Close friends from California like Matt Brown, Cecily Clark, Molly Kinnamon, Tamie Smith and Mackenna Shea cushioned the change of scenery and new environment.

It reminded me that our support as riders comes from great owners and sponsors but also from true teammates; these are the riders we warm-up next to, that haul our horses, that we clean stalls next to and the people who see the real us after each victory and defeat.

My California riding family introduced me to more great riders from the East Coast and reminded me that we are all connected by our desire to be the best version of ourselves on each horse we ride. Jersey Fresh, for me as a rider, was a dream. Purdy had his best dressage test to date, cruised around a long cross-country course and completed the show jumping all with a qualifying result.

While Purdy has been spending some down time after Jersey, I have gotten to spend time getting to know my new partner, Marseille, who is known as Oz in the barn). As his old rider said, “He is part of the furniture and character of the yard,” and I couldn’t agree more.

It could be his cute milk mustache, tightly pricked ears or his killer jump, but I love getting to know this horse more each day. I am thrilled to see what the future holds for us, but in that I am also just excited to see him tomorrow to continue to grow a partnership that will extend for years to come.

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy at Jersey Fresh. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy at Jersey Fresh. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Purdy went back to work this week, and it feels like he has had no time off at all. Every ride from here until our trip to the Pan American Games has been planned and is in the process of being completed. I truly can’t believe that I am getting the opportunity to attend this amazing event once again. The last time changed my life, and I can only imagine what will happen this time.

I look back at the last Games and see more than just a competition; I see all the people that rallied behind me to get me to Mexico on the international riding stage: my community that fundraised for me, my coaches, my family and my friends who supported me emotionally through that insane journey. I know when I look back on this years’ Games, I will see a similar crowd. Knowing this gives me encouragement that there is an incredible group of people cheering me on.

When I think about the past few months in their entirety, the changes can be summed up in an overriding theme: You are capable of pursuing your goals and achieving your dreams when you are willing to make hard decisions and prioritize your daily life to lead to success.

When I could recognize what I needed to do to get to where I wanted to go, I knew I was responsible to make the difficult decisions to put myself in a position where I could most successfully pursue my dreams. And while I am finally living in this moment, I can look back at one year ago and see exactly how each show, discussion with my coaches and decision has led me to where I am now.

The sum of all the difficult decisions for me personally is an overwhelming feeling of excitement and happiness that I am getting to do what I have always dreamed of.

Hannah Sue Burnett’s New String of Horses Packs A Big Punch

By on Jun 9, 2015 9:30 am -
Hannah Sue Burnett and Cooley Dream Extreme. Photo by Sara McKenna. Hannah Sue Burnett and Cooley Dream Extreme. Photo by Sara McKenna.

It’s an exciting time for Hannah Sue Burnett as her four-star partner Harbour Pilot is coming back into work after sustaining an injury at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials last fall, and it’s made even more exciting by the new horses she’s been welcoming into her barn.

Her most recent new addition is Cooley Dream Extreme, a 7-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding (by Cruising out of The Dreamseeker, by Ramiro B) that campaigned very successfully in England and France with Piggy French, most notably finishing third in the 6-year-old World Championships at Le Lion d’Angers last fall.

Hannah first looked at the horse, who was previously called “Herbie” but has been rechristened “Cooley,” in England last fall thanks to a tip from Jess Montgomery, who has helped find numerous horses for U.S. riders since moving across the pond with husband Clark in 2012.

“The timing didn’t work out to buy him then, as Piggy couldn’t decide if she wanted to keep the ride for a little longer,” Hannah said. “I fell in love with him, and Jess knew I really liked him, so she kept an eye on him for me. When Piggy decided she wanted to sell him, I was luckily the first one to get him.”

Hannah’s longtime supporter Jacqueline Mars stepped in to buy half of the horse, while Mary Ann Ghadban, a new owner for Hannah, bought the other half. Cooley will go to his first event in the States at Surefire Horse Trials later this month, followed by the CIC1* at Stuart Horse Trials, with the ultimate goal being to move him up to the Intermediate/two-star level and contest the Dutta Corp Fair Hill International CCI2* this fall.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Wilhelmina. Photo by Michael Burnett.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Wilhelmina. Photo by Michael Burnett.

If you think Cooley is royally bred for eventing with Cruising and Ramiro B lines, then Hannah’s new mare Wilhelmina is another head-turner on paper. By Laurel, a Stan the Man xx son, out of Fantastic Dream xx, the 5-year-old Trakehner mare bred by Dr. Annette Wyrwoll made the trip from Germany this past January to join Hannah’s string.

“Willow” is the first event horse for new owner Margriet Langeberg, who Hannah said is very excited to be a part of the sport. We can expect to see this lovely chestnut mare competing at her first events in the States very soon alongside Jitter Bug, the other red mare in Hannah’s barn and still a fairly new ride to her.

After acquiring the ride earlier this year from Lauren Billys, Hannah and Jitter Bug, a 9-year-old Rheinland Pfalz-Saar mare (by Daimler D’ Adriers out of Nesthöckerli, by Nickolson) owned by Jacqueline Mars and Sherry Nemmers, won the CIC1* at Red Hills International Horse Trials in March.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Jitter Bug. Photo by Jenni Autry

Hannah Sue Burnett and Jitter Bug. Photo by Jenni Autry

“Sherry is a new owner into the sport, and she’s really excited about Jitter Bug,” Hannah said. “We’re starting to mesh, and she’s starting to understand her job more now. She’s really coming into her own, and the goal is to aim for the two-star at Fair Hill in the fall.”

Hannah has even more new horses in her barn in Under Suspection, an 11-year-old Holsteiner mare, and Alonzo, a 10-year-old Dutch gelding, both owned by Mary Ann Ghadban and previously campaigned by Sharon White. Both horses have been recovering from minor injuries and are now coming back into work.

“I’m really excited about having Mary Ann as a new owner,” Hannah said. “She’s been wonderful and is really excited about supporting Team USA and buying into other syndicates. I think it’s really great for the country to have such an enthusiastic owner.”

Fans of Harbour Pilot, the 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Jacqueline Mars, will be happy to hear that he is on track in recovering from his injury sustained at Burghley, where he was withdrawn prior to show jumping after sitting in seventh place following a clear cross country round.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot at Burghley. Photo by Kate Samuels.

Hannah Sue Burnett and Harbour Pilot at Burghley. Photo by Kate Samuels.

“William is doing incredible and even better than we expected at this stage of his recovery,” Hannah said. “Dr. (Christiana) Ober has been an amazing vet and has been right by our side for every step of the recovery and legging him back up. My groom, Sara (McKenna), has been awesome with him too. He’s almost ready to start flatting.”

Hannah hopes to get William out to a horse trials in the fall, and she doesn’t see a reason to push to get to a big event like Fair Hill — where he won the CCI3* in 2012 — or Burghley or Pau. Instead, the goal is to aim for a return trip to the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event next spring, where they finished 15th in 2014.

“I’m so lucky to have such a great team and really good support around me,” Hannah said. “I’m excited to have such an awesome string of horses right now, and I’m looking forward to getting them all out competing.”

Best of luck to Hannah with her beefed-up string. Go Eventing.

Tuesday News and Notes from Cavalor

By on Jun 9, 2015 12:17 am -
Waylon Roberts and Sandra Andresen's Illusion in 2001. Photo courtesy of Kelly Plitz. Waylon Roberts and Sandra Andresen's Illusion in 2001. Photo courtesy of Kelly Plitz.

Another Bromont and Belmont have come and gone, and horsey social media is abuzz with the stories and results from the weekend. While racing fans might #hailthetail, I think eventing fans should start using the hashtag #hailthekilt. Okay, so maybe it’s not as catchy as American Pharoah’s call sign, but still. Kudos to Waylon Roberts for rocking the kilt, even as a teenager!

Events Opening Today: Stoneleigh-Burnham Summer H.T (MA, A-1), Horse Park of New Jersey Horse Trials II (NJ, A-2), Event at Rebecca Farm (MT, A-7), Cobblestone Farms H.T. (MI, A-8)

Events Closing Today: Groton House Farm H.T. (MA, A-1), Genesee Valley Hunt H.T. (NY, A-1), Horse Park of New Jersey H.T. I (NJ, A-2), Chattahoochee Hills H.T. (GA, A-3), Inavale Farm HT (OR, A-7), Encore H.T. (MI, A-8), Abbe Ranch H.T. (CO, A-9)

News and Notes: 

Brazil has named its Pan-Am eventing team: Congratulations to Carlos Paro and Calcourt Landline, Henrique Pinheiro  and Land Quenotte Do Feroleto, Márcio Carvalho Jorge and Lissy Mac Mayer, and Ruy Fonseca and Tom Bombadill Too. Also, here’s an EN shout-out to U.S.-based Brazilian Nilson Moreira da Silva for being listed as an alternate with Muggle! [CBH: CCE team chosen for Pan-American Games in Toronto]

Subscribe to the EquiRatings Newsletter: EquiRatings is a new website that compiles and analyzes eventing statistics worldwide, and they just released their first newsletter! Check out this month’s newsletter, featuring some awesome facts and statistics on our favorite sport: [EquiRatings: The start of an exciting journey]

Clash of the Titans: The Lingfield racetrack shook with thunder as Shires raced against Clydesdales over two furlongs in the annual Flying Feathers Heavy Horse Stakes. A Shire named Jack Flash, piloted by Grand National-winning jockey Leighton Aspell, surged to lead the pack of galloping giants in a race to raise awareness for these versatile and endangered draft breeds. For a full video of the race, check out [Horsetalk: Shires speed to race victory]

Italian Dressage Olympian hospitalized after accident: Valentina Truppa was seriously injured in an accident on Sunday when the young horse she was riding spooked and fell. Valentina, Italy’s top-ranked international dressage rider, was wearing a helmet that protected the base of her head during the accident, however “the counter movement caused a blow to her head.” She is currently under pharmacological sedation and in stable condition at a specialist hospital in Siena, Italy. [Horse & Hound: Elite dressage rider hospitalized after serious fall] [Eurodressage: Update on Valentina Truppa pharmacologically sedated]

When dogs and horses don’t mix: Kjirsten Lee, J.D. is an attorney whose “Equine Law” column on Horse Nation helps clarify many legal aspects of horse ownership and stable management. This week, Kjirsten examines the layers of liability for injury as they relate to horses, dogs, and the various ways that they can frighten or hurt each other. [Equine Law: Dogs and Horses]

Equine influenza exposure in Arizona may be caused by wild burros: The BLM’s Arizona branch announced that equines near the Black Mountain Herd Management Area (in the northwest part of the state) may have been exposed to equine influenza (EI) by wild burros. Six burros have tested positive for EI, and the BLM is concerned that burros wandering near towns could transmit the disease to domesticated livestock. [The Horse: BLM Arizona issues equine influenza advisory]

Video of the Day: Yesterday, The Horsepesterer brought us video highlights from Bromont, including Marilyn Little’s winning ride on RF Demeter. Today, we bring you a blast from the past with Jonathan Holling, winner of the CCI3* at Bromont in 2012. Watch Team Wallace’s hilarious video of Jon’s celebratory streaking of the Bromont sign, which is surprisingly G-rated, considering we’re watching a world-class athlete careen across a Canadian icon in his skivvies:

Monday Videos from Tredstep Ireland: Bromont Rewind

By on Jun 8, 2015 5:00 pm -

You may have spotted a familiar face at Bromont this weekend. The Horse Pesterer, our friendly neighborhood videographer, has just finished uploading his videos from the competition this past weekend, giving you plenty of reason to shirk your Monday work duties (we won’t tell your boss).

Footage from all three phases is available on The Horse Pesterer’s YouTube channel, including videos of CCI3* winners Marilyn Little and RF Demeter, among many others. Be sure to click through here to view all of your favorite riders’ videos.

Eventers Honor Seema Sonnad with a Sea of Purple

By on Jun 8, 2015 3:00 pm -
Missy Ransenhausen and Rachel Gross following cross country with Seema's OTTB, VS Pass Play. Photo courtesy of Lisa Thomas.

Missy Ransehousen and Rachel Gross after cross country with Seema’s OTTB, Keegan. Photo courtesy of Lisa Thomas.

Eventers at this past weekend’s Plantation Field Horse Trials donned purple to honor the memory of rider, owner, mentor and volunteer Seema Sonnad, who passed away suddenly last month. The event was made all the more emotional for Missy Ransehousen, who rode Seema’s OTTB, VS Pass Play, in the Open Preliminary division.

Seema, who boarded and trained with the Ransehousens at Blue Hill Farm in Unionville, Pennsylvania, had planned for “Keegan” to compete with Missy at both Fair Hill’s May horse trials and Plantation Field’s June horse trials to aid in her goal of competing in a one-star later this year.

“The funny part is that Seema had joked with me and told me that I needed to knock a few points off of his dressage score, and he scored a 28 this weekend; he usually scores in the high 30s, Missy said. “Dressage is not his strongest phase, but he’s an excellent jumper. He did such a phenomenal job with Seema; he really took great care of her.”

 

Photo courtesy of Lisa Thomas.

Photo courtesy of Lisa Thomas.

Missy does not have any immediate plans to compete Keegan again, but she has enjoyed keeping him in work and seeing the outpouring of support and love for Seema at Plantation Field.

“It was really great to see people chipping in with the purple and having a good time,” she said. “I think any time that you ride a horse for someone who has passed away, it’s emotional in a sense that you want to fulfill what they felt the horse deserved.”

Plans are being made to plant a tree in Seema’s honor overlooking the cross country course at Plantation Field, a fitting tribute to someone who volunteered and competed at the venue for many years.

Screenshot (38)

“It really was an amazing — and emotional — weekend for all of us,” Lisa Thomas, a member of the Blue Hill Farm family, said. “It was just fabulous to see so many people, from volunteers to the competitors, wearing purple. Seema is definitely smiling down upon us.”

Thanks you to Lisa Thomas of Mid-Atlantic Equestrian Service for sharing this photo gallery of Missy and Keegan, as well as other riders who donned purple for Seema. If you wore purple or snapped a photo of someone in purple this weekend, please post it in the comments.

#becauseofSeema

Emma Ford and Cat Hill Demonstrate World Class Grooming in Clinic

By on Jun 8, 2015 1:00 pm -

Annemarie Cochrane attended the first World Class Grooming for Horses clinic hosted by authors Cat Hill and Emma Ford, and she kindly shared a blog about the experience. Visit www.worldclassgrooming.com for more information on future clinics.

Cat Hill and Emma Ford. Photo by Jess Lynn Dailey. Cat Hill and Emma Ford. Photo by Jess Lynn Dailey.

A couple of weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to be the lucky winner to be picked to attend the first World Class Grooming Clinic hosted by Emma Ford and Cat Hill. This past April while at Rolex, I bought their new book entitled World-Class Grooming for Horses. At the time, my name got placed in a drawing with 50 or so others who purchased the book for a chance to attend this first clinic for free.

So mid-May, when Cat called to tell me that my name had been picked, I was thrilled! I had never met Cat or Emma, but I absolutely loved reading the book. It is filled with knowledge, detailed descriptions and pictures, so therefore I couldn’t wait to hear the plethora of information they were going to share. (Click here to read EN’s book review!)

Cat Hill explaining the importance of examining and being familiar with your horse's legs each time you ride or groom. Photo by Anniemarie Cochrane.

Cat Hill explaining the importance of examining and being familiar with your horse’s legs each time you ride or groom. Photo by Anniemarie Cochrane.

The full day clinic was held at Phillip Dutton’s True Prospect Farm in West Grove, Pennsylvania, which is Emma’s home base. The clinic was wonderful! There were 12 participants, and we spent the day immersed in discussing proper daily horse care, learning about stable management and safety, grooming, blanketing, first aid, clipping, show turnout, braiding, boots, leg care and studs.

They divided us up into two groups, and we were given the opportunity to work with both Emma and Cat at different times throughout the day. There were chances for hands-on practice, including clipping and braiding. Over lunch, Christine Taylor of Body Kneads gave us an hour-long presentation on body work, laser therapy, farrier issues, thermal imaging and kinesio taping.

Christine Taylor gives a body work demonstration. Photo by Annemarie Cochrane.

Christine Taylor gives a body work demonstration. Photo by Annemarie Cochrane.

The overall theme that Emma and Cat tried to stress throughout the day was that while working in the barn and around horses, “Slower and safer is better than faster and dangerous. Take time where it matters to do things correctly.” I came away from the clinic with a wealth of new knowledge. Below I have listed just a few tips I found particularly interesting and wanted to share:

  • Aisle ways should be free of clutter, including trunks, and every barn should have an updated fire extinguisher in plain view.
  • When grooming, use a coat moisturizer each day and Show Sheen on show days.
  • Use baby powder on white socks on show days.
  • OxiClean is great for getting out pee stains.
  • Shapley’s Hi Shine Shampoo is wonderful for grey horses.
  • Witch hazel, used for a brace, post clipping and/or cleaning purposes, is a great product to have in your barn and trailer, as it does not dry out skin.
  • Use an apple cider vinegar rinse (1/4 vinegar to 3/4 water) for horses that break out. No need to rinse off.
  • Locking Creme Wax is a wonderful product for mane and tail training.
  • Afro Grow helps hair growth and reduces the appearance of scars.
  • If your horse has a thin tail, bang it shorter.
  • If your horse is a bit on his forehand, keep the tail a little longer.
  • The best thing for keeping legs tight with little or no swelling is turnout.
  • Icing legs is critical for horses competing at the upper levels. Ice their legs for 20 minutes once to three times right after a gallop, hard work or competition.
  • Knowing your horse’s body and having him or her worked on by a skilled, licensed professional body worker can be a huge benefit.
Emma Ford demonstrates face clipping. Photo by Annemarie Cochrane.

Emma Ford demonstrates face clipping. Photo by Annemarie Cochrane.

It was such a treat to learn from Emma and Cat, who are professional grooms and who have worked for some of the best riders in the world. A huge thank you to Christine who shared her expertise and to Joe Adams of Top Rail Tack who generously sponsored the clinic. If you happen to see Emma and Cat giving a clinic in your area, I would highly recommend you plan to attend. You’ll learn so much and as a result become a better horseman.

Who Jumped It Best? Bromont Jaguar Edition

By on Jun 8, 2015 11:00 am -

I’ve heard of “expensive rails” but using a Jaguar as jump filler is in a category all of its own: “That’ll cost you four faults AND tens of thousands of dollars. Should have picked up those toes!”

As usual, sports cars were scattered throughout this year’s Jaguar Land Rover Bromont Three-Day event, including some cameos on yesterday’s show jumping course.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Have you ever seen a car used as an obstacle on a show jumping course? Me neither. But if you use your imagination, snap photos from precisely the right angle, and have a basic knowledge of Photoshop, anything is possible. Check out these photos of the CCI3* horses and riders “jumping a Jaguar” and tell us who you thought did it best!

Kate Chadderton and VS McCuan Civil Liberty. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Kate Chadderton and VS McCuan Civil Liberty. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Sara Kozumplik Murphy and Catchascatchcan. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark's Monte Carlo. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Selena O'Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Waylon Roberts and Kelecyn Cognac. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Waylon Roberts and Kelecyn Cognac. Photo by Leslie Wylie.

Many thanks to Jaguar Land Rover for their support of both Bromont and equestrian sport at large.

Allez Concours Complet!

Fab Freebie: Win a Year’s Supply of Summer Games Electrolytes from Kentucky Performance Products

By on Jun 8, 2015 9:00 am -
Photo courtesy of Kentucky Performance Products Photo courtesy of Kentucky Performance Products

Summer is officially here, and it’s hot! If you live in the Midwest, it’s also quite a bit more humid than most of us would prefer. Supposedly, it’s better than being cold but sometimes I’m not so sure. I think I’m meant to live in California, anyway.

With the onset of the hot and dry weather comes an increase in the hydration needed for your horses. Especially for those who are in full work, it’s important to keep the balance of electrolytes in mind when providing your horse with supplements. Kentucky Performance Products offers a great option with their Summer Games Electrolyte supplement. Here’s some handy info on what it has to offer:

Does your horse sweat…
…during training or competition?
…while traveling?
…when standing in his stall or paddock?

Then you need Summer Games Electrolyte! Electrolytes play a critical role in hydration, muscle function, and the thirst response. When electrolytes are out of balance, your horse is at risk for dehydration and the health threats associated with it.

Summer Games Electrolyte will quickly replenish the electrolytes and trace minerals lost during sweat and stimulate your horse’s desire to drink, supporting proper hydration and optimal health.

Summer Games contains a research-proven electrolyte formulation that was originally developed for the top horses competing at the 1996 Olympics. Formulated using the results of extensive studies investigating the composition of sweat, Summer Games contains both key electrolytes and trace minerals in the actual amounts that are lost during sweating.

Summer Games is concentrated and easy to use:

• Adjustable serving rates allow you to meet your horse’s ever-changing electrolyte needs.
• Affordable price allows you to consistently replenish key electrolytes in appropriate ratios.
• Concentrated formula ensures your horse receives both critical electrolytes and trace minerals, not sugar and other fillers.
• Unique ingredients support optimal performance and speedy recovery during and after exercise or stressful situations.

Convinced? Then you’re in luck! We’ve teamed up with Kentucky Performance Products this week to offer a whole year’s supply of Summer Games Electrolyte — just in time for the hottest part of the year. Someone’s horse is going to be very happy — and hydrated!

To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter widget below. We’ll draw a winner at random after entries close at midnight on Friday, June 12. Look for your name in Friday’s News & Notes — you could be the lucky winner! Good luck and happy summer!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclaimer: Information given in the Rafflecopter widget, including email addresses, may be shared with the corresponding sponsor at their request. You will also be signed up for our weekly EN eNews email newsletter, if you aren’t already. Don’t worry — you’ll just wonder what you’ve been missing out on — and you can unsubscribe if you don’t want it.

Monday News and Notes from Success Equestrian

By on Jun 8, 2015 12:26 am -
American Pharoah at the start of the race at Belmont. Photo by Diana Robinson via Flickr/Creative Commons.

American Pharoah at the start of the race at Belmont. Photo by Diana Robinson via Flickr/Creative Commons.

My earliest memory of the Triple Crown was as a 9-year-old watching Silver Charm just barely miss out on the Belmont win. Then Real Quiet a year later, followed by Charismatic in 1999 and on from there. Every year we felt the hype and every year we were disappointed. I admit to having always been skeptical yet hopeful, but I along with millions of others witnessed history this weekend. Nine-year-old me would be delighted, but grown up me definitely squealed and danced as American Pharoah marched down the homestretch.

Weekend Action:

Bromont: [Results]

GMHA June H.T. [Results]

Gennessee Valley Driving & Riding Club Spring  H.T. [Results]

Plantation Field H.T. [Results]

The Middleburg H.T.  [Results]

River Glen June H.T. [Results]

Roebke’s Run CCI/CIC & H.T. [Results]

Texas Rose Horse Park Summer H.T. [Results]

Copper Meadows CIC & H.T. [Results]

Arrowhead H.T. [Live Scores]

Derbyshire Farms H.T.  [Website]

Monday News and Notes:

With the Surefire Horse Trials in Purcellville, Virginia running the same weekend as Great Meadow International in The Plains, Virginia, the organizers of both events are hoping Great Meadow spectators embrace the concept of a “festival of eventing in hunt country” and visit Purcellville to watch the competition at Surefire, and vice versa. Here is the Surefire schedule: Friday 3:00 courses open; Saturday I/P/T 8:00am Dressage; 10:00 am Show Jumping; 10:30 Cross Country; Sunday N/BN 8:00am Dressage; 10:00 am Show Jumping; 10:30 Cross Country. [Website]

Horse hubbies unite! You may know Timothy Harfield, husband of Elisa Wallace, from his fabulously filmed, edited and oft-viral Wallace Eventing videos. In response to high demand, he has just launched a blog in support of Horse Husbands everywhere by offering horse show survival tips, relationship advice and product reviews. The first blog titled “Surviving Your First Horse Show is cheeky and hilarious but absolutely spot on. [Blog] [Facebook]

AP’s A+ Personality. The racing industry hopes American Pharoah passes on his speed and endurance to his progeny. The rest of us are hoping he passes on his apparent fantastic personality (and hidden jumping ability). On Sunday, the newly crowned 3-year-old American hero stood quietly in the yard while a crowd of strangers gathered to pet, kiss and coo in awe. And who says all Thoroughbreds are crazy? [Video: American Pharoah Outside His Barn]

Fantasy Equestrian. A representative from the NBA (yes, basketball) says fantasy sports could bring more interest to Thoroughbred racing because wagers are legal in horse racing and “Americans love to gamble.” Many people are only racing fans during the Derby and when a Triple Crown is on the line, so the idea could potentially bring prolonged attention to the sport. I say Timothy Harfield’s next project should be setting up a fantasy eventing website. [Are fantasy sports the way forward?]

Continuing on with the fantasy theme today… If you could design your fantasy farm, what would be your must have luxuries? Horse and Hound knows how they would splurge on their dream facility, and seriously, some of this technology I’ve never even heard of. There’s an actual machine for mucking stalls? What rock have I been living under? [Fantasy Yard Wishlist]

Monday Video: The latest from Wallace Eventing – Hwin moved up to Training!