Classic Eventing Nation

February Is Equine Dental Awareness Month! Brought to You by Banixx

By on Feb 14, 2020 9:00 am -
Banixx,Wound Care,Equine,Teeth,Dental

February is Equine Dental Awareness Month. When were your horse’s teeth last checked? Photo courtesy of Banixx.

Horses should have their first check-up at 1.5 to 2.5 years of age, then annually from then until they are in their 20s. Then our older horses may need their teeth checked more frequently so that they can get the most value from their food, and in all age ranges more frequent check-ups are warranted in any of the following situations:

  • Chomping the bit, difficulty taking and/or dropping the bit
  • Twisting his head in the bridle
  • Hangs on one rein
  • Difficulty turning one direction
  • Ulcers on the inside of the cheeks
  • Dropping grain/feed, hay ‘balls’ found on the ground
  • Choking
  • Colic
  • Front teeth do not line up – uneven incisors (affects the jaw alignment too!) This could also mean malocclusions (jaw and teeth not lining up)
  • Lumps seen from outside on cheeks
  • Behavior changes
  • Weight loss
  • Smelly mouth

It is important to monitor a young horse’s teeth and particularly check for wolf teeth and caps (the baby teeth that fall out/get pushed out by adult teeth). Caps can get jammed between other teeth rather than fall out on their own.

In general, most horses need at least an annual check-up/floating. However, horses in regular work may need a check-up every six to nine months to avoid ulcerated cheeks and/or tooth issues. Sharp points, uneven edges, etc. may be more problematic for a horse that wears a bridle, for instance. More frequent check-ups may also be warranted for horses with dental issues. Although cavities are uncommon in horses, they do occur. More common dental ailments are painful points, uneven arcades (tops and bottom rows of teeth), but a Periapical infection, or infection at the root of the tooth, can also occur. Also, a cracked tooth may go undetected without a dental exam.

It is so easy to skip having your horse’s teeth checked but it is such an important part of their health! We ask so much of our horses and their mouth is vital – do the right thing! Get your horse’s teeth checked!

Brought to you by Banixx – the #1 trusted solution for equine and pet owners! Learn more about Banixx  by clicking here:

Banixx,Wound Care,Horse,Equine,Safe,Non-toxic

Friday News & Notes from World Equestrian Brands

By on Feb 14, 2020 12:01 am -

We’re sad to report today that Lynn Symansky’s first international horse, No It ‘Tissant, has passed away at the age of 28. “Thank you for giving me my foundation, keeping me humble, and solidifying my love for OTTBs and eventing,” Lynn wrote in a statement posted on social media. “You were my most frustrating rival, my best professor, and responsible for changing the course of my life.”

Together, Lynn and “Fergus” finished 10th in the 2003 Pan American Games at Fair Hill and also finished in the top 20 in their Kentucky debut in 2007. He retired from competing at the upper levels in 2008 and spent his older years teaching Lynn’s students the ropes before retiring full-time in 2012. We send our condolences to Lynn and all of those whose lives were touched by No It ‘Tissant. [No It ‘Tissant (1992-2020)]

National Holiday: Valentine’s Day

Events This Weekend:

Rocking Horse Winter II: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Paradise Farm H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Friday Reading:

The USEA announced another way to reward volunteers participating in the VIP program. The Volunteer Medal Program gives volunteers accumulating substantial hours the opportunity to earn bronze, silver and gold medals and other prizes. The awards, handed out at the end of the year, are intended to recognize volunteers for consistent efforts and dedication. [New Addition to VIP: The Volunteer Medal Program]

Do you need a dental exam for your horse? Basic dental examinations are a part of most horse owner’s veterinary care routine. But what should you expect during an exam, and what are some ways to be proactive with dental care? The Horse weighs in. [Do I Need a Dental Exam for My Horse?]

Let’s take a step back in time and revisit the career of Tad Coffin. In the latest in the FEI’s Golden Greats series, we learn all about the legendary show jumper and his incredible accomplishments. A history lover’s dream — and don’t miss the first of the series all about Sir Mark Todd. [Golden Greats #2: Tad Coffin]

Hot on Horse Nation: In the latest HN book review, we get a look at Better Lucky Than Good, a behind-the-scenes look at life on the backside of the racetrack. Specifically at the hallowed grounds that are Churchill Downs. Get the full scoop in the review here.

Friday Video Break: Another video of Ingrid Klimke doing fun, amazing things because the world can always use more of these.

Thursday Video from FLAIR: Helmet Cam from the Speediest Round at Wellington

By on Feb 13, 2020 4:00 pm -

Check out Clifford M’s CAMBOX footage from the $50,000 MARS Eventing Showcase this weekend! At the end of the clip you can hear me cheering & congratulating him! You can also see me hugging him for being so perfect 💗 Cambox Horse USA USA Eventing Eventing Nation USEF Network

Posted by Charlotte Collier on Monday, February 10, 2020

Charlotte Collier and Clifford M’s speedy time of 2 minutes, 57 seconds earned them the award for the fastest round of the day at last weekend’s MARS Eventing Showcase in Wellington, Florida. Capt. Mark Phillips’ twisting and turning track carried an optimum time of 3 minutes, 9 seconds, which less than half of the competitors managed to beat.

Charlotte and the 14 year old Holsteiner gelding Clifford M would go on to finish 15th overall in a top class field, a great launching point for the rest of their 2020 campaign.

That “we finished” feeling. Photo by JJ Sillman.

Ride along with Charlotte and pay close mind to her turns and general way of going — watching her ride, it’s easy to see why she effortlessly made the time. A real treat! And peep that bright pink FLAIR strip — you can pick up your own colored strips here.

Charlotte Collier and Clifford M. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Volunteer Nation: 5 Events In Need of Assistance This Weekend

By on Feb 13, 2020 2:00 pm -

Last weekend at the Florida Horse Park, a couple of familiar faces were spotted paying their dues back to the sport in the form of some volunteer hours. Some riders may not have recognized the man in the baseball cap barking out the upcoming order of go or the five-star rider helping out at cross country warm-up. Both David O’Connor as well as Katie Ruppel were out volunteering in a great show of what it means to be all-in with the sport we love.

So how would you feel if a former president of the USEF volunteered to be ring steward at your event? How about the former USEF Eventing coach and current Canadian technical advisor? Or maybe the current FEI Eventing chairman? Ok fine then we will just settle for Olympic Gold medalist. I thought it was pretty cool to see the world famous David O’Connor volunteering at the Florida Horse Park last weekend. I am not sure the kids in his ring knew who the guy in the hat getting them in the ring was but they knew they had better listen! Be sure to tune in for the Jon and Rick Show from Horse Trailer Pros studios this Thursday the 13th at 6pm! #horsetrailerpros

Posted by The Jon and Rick Show on Monday, February 10, 2020

Yes, showing can be busy and stressful. But these shows do not run without the support of volunteers who are also up at the crack of dawn to get ready for the day and who spend their whole day on their feet out in the sun. So let’s all make it a goal to make an effort to volunteer as much as we can. And no matter what, always thank the volunteers when it’s your turn to compete!

If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer this weekend, here are a few shows in need of some help. Not listed below but likely still in need of extra hands is Rocking Horse’s Winter II Horse Trials in Altoona, Florida. You can visit this site to sign up as a part of the volunteer crew.

Event: Fresno County Horse Park February Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 7430 North Weber Avenue, Fresno, CA, 93726
Positions available: Dressage Score Runner, XC Jump Judge, XC Safety Check, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Timer

Event: Paradise Farm February Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 4069 Wagener Rd., Aiken, SC, 29805
Positions available: XC Finish Timer, XC Jump Judge, XC Steward, Dressage Steward, Dressage Warm-up, Hospitality Steward, Volunteer Lead, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Out Gate, SJ Score Runner, SJ Warm-up, Dressage Bit Check, Dressage Score Runner, Stabling Check-in and Trailer Parking, XC Score Runner

Event: Carolina Horse Park Pipe Opener II
Date(s) volunteers needed: Friday, February 14 through Saturday, February 15
Address: 2814 Montrose Rd., Raeford, NC, 28376
Positions available: All positions filled at time of publication. Please reach out on the grounds if you want to help!

Event: Pine Hill GHCTA Schooling Horse Trials
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 15 through Sunday, February 16
Address: 1720 Hwy 159 East, Bellville, TX, 77418
Positions available: Parking Steward, XC Crossing Guard, XC Jump Judge, XC Pinney Collector, XC Score Runner, Dressage Score Runner, Event Takedown – XC, Secretary, SJ Jump Crew, SJ Timer, SJ Warm-up

Event: Stable View February Eventing Academy
Date(s) volunteers needed: Saturday, February 15 through Tuesday, February 18
Address: 117 Stable Dr, Aiken, SC, 29801
Positions available: Event Prep – SJ, Event Prep – General, XC Jump Judge, Floater, Parking Steward, XC Safety Spotter, Hospitality Prep, General Sign-up, Jump Crew

Equestrian Canada Names 2020 Eventing National Team Program Riders

By on Feb 13, 2020 12:09 pm -

Selena O’Hanlon and Foxwood High. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Equestrian Canada has named its Eventing National Team riders for the new year, splitting the list into the National Squad and the Developmental Squad. A total of 20 riders have been selected between the two squads, and the focus of this program for 2020 will be individual qualification for the Tokyo Olympics. Canada has the option to fill two individual spots for the Olympics this year.

The National Squad consists of pairs “committed to and capable of producing individual performance results at international 4* and/or 5* competitions, and who show the ability to contribute to a top six team result at major games.” The National Squad list is as follows:

The Developmental Squad is made up of pairs “committed to and capable of progressing to National Squad. Horse-and-athlete combinations named to the Development Squad are those which have achieved targeted performance results at eligible international competitions in the previous 12 months.” The Developmental Squad is as follows:

The Equestrian Canada National Team Program for eventing is led by Technical Advisor, David O’Connor with the support of and Equestrian Canada Eventing High Performance Advisory Group and Eventing Manager Fleur Tipton.

“We are very pleased to announce the talented athletes and horses that comprise the 2020 High Performance Squad,” Rob Stevenson, Chair of the EC Eventing High Performance Advisory Group, said in the announcement release. “We feel that this list reflects the progress fostered by David’s technical leadership. The Squad riders will have the opportunity to train with him throughout the year, most notably at the training sessions that are taking place in Ocala, FL, throughout the winter months. The two training sessions to date have been keenly attended and highly successful as we look to hone the skill base of our riders and horses.”

The National Team Program provides a pathway that supports the progression of targeted Canadian athletes in the Train to Compete and Learn to Win stages of the Long-Term Equestrian Development (LTED) framework to achieve international podium performances. It is aligned with EC’s high performance strategy and supported by funding partners, Sport Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee.

[Equestrian Canada Announces 2020 Eventing National Team Program Athletes]

Introducing the All-New Eventing Radio Show featuring Jon Holling and Rick Wallace

By on Feb 13, 2020 11:00 am -

The Jon and Rick Show debuted to much appreciation from eventing fans the world over earlier this year, and this week the show takes on an even bigger presence as the newly refreshed Eventing Radio Show. You may recall the Eventing Radio Show with longtime hosts Max Corcoran, Joe Meyer, Liz Halliday-Sharp, and Paul Tapner — the most established show of its kind in the eventing space. Now, the show will go on with Jon and Rick at the helm supported by the Horse Radio Network as well as EQTV Network.

“I am excited to welcome some new voices to the Eventing Radio Show,” Horse Radio Network founder Glenn Hebert said in a press release. “Jon and Rick bring years of Eventing experience and terrific dynamic to the longest running Eventing podcast in the world. We also want to thank Max Corcoran, Joe Meyer, Liz Halliday, Paul Tapner and the ERA for their years of hard work to make the show into the success it is. We are looking forward to 10 more years of Eventing Radio Show.”

The Jon and Rick Show was a brainstorm idea between Jon Holling, Rick Wallace and Louisa Barton of The Horse Talk Show. The new Eventing talk show began creating a lot of buzz and with the new format launching today, Jon and Rick are excited with the possibilities.

The Jon and Rick Show has also joined forces with Joel Wiessner of EQTV Network who will be providing all the media streaming production for the show. The show will air twice a month as a media streaming show, available on social media platforms starting February 13 and February 27. The ERS Podcast will air twice a month starting February 15 and February 29.

“Rick and Jon are entertaining individually and putting them together on a show is really funny and entertaining,” Joel said. “Basing this show in the Horse Capital of the World only lends to this success it will have on the air. I am proud to be the producer of this show.”

The Jon and Rick Show’s first airing will feature Mia Farley and our second show featuring Alex O’Neal, both listed on one of the USEF training lists. The show will dive into their lives here in Ocala as well as their personal lives as up-and-coming eventing stars.

The first episode airing today, February 13, will debut a new format in digital media streaming show on The Jon and Rick Show Facebook page, and on February 15 on the Horse Radio Networks. It will also have updates from the FEI meeting in Aintree, England where Jon Holling traveled as a part of the USEF Safety Committee participant.

“We are excited for the opportunities in front of us,” Jon said. “Thank you to Matt Taub and Horse Trailer Pros for believing in our vision. Without the support from Horse Trailer Pros the is new voice for Eventing wouldn’t exist. Also thank you to Louisa Barton for jump starting The Jon and Rick Show, we are looking forward to this next step.”

The Jon and Rick Show is pleased to have Horse Trailer Pros onboard as its title sponsor. Horse Trailer Pro’s of Ocala is owned by Matt Taub and located just off US 27 at exit 354 off 75. HTP services all makes and models of horse trailers and specialize in living quarter conversion service and upgrades. “We are very grateful to Matt Taub of Horse Trailer Pros for believing in our show to help promote his awesome horse trailer services. We also send a special thanks to Louisa Barton for giving us a leg up and to HRN’s Glenn Hebert for signing us up as the new voices of the Eventing Radio Show,” said Rick Wallace.

Ready to watch the very first episode? The Jon and Rick Show is hosting a live premiere tonight at 6 pm ET. Update: Here’s a replay!

 

Want to Win a Trip to Land Rover Kentucky? Here’s How

By on Feb 13, 2020 9:00 am -

Enter the 2020 Land Rover VIP Insiders Package Sweepstakes

The 2020 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Event is right around the corner and Land Rover is giving away 4 VIP hospitality passes + so much more!!Enter the sweepstakes (🇺🇸 residents only): https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events-and-sponsorships/kentucky-three-day-event-kmi.html

Posted by USA Eventing on Wednesday, February 12, 2020

We are just over two months away from the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event, and for anyone who’s been eyeing a trip to eventing’s North American mecca will want to enter a new sweepstakes put on by Land Rover USA.

The Land Rover USA VIP Insiders Package Sweepstakes is a chance for four eventing mega fans to venture to the Bluegrass State for the weekend of a lifetime. Sweepstakes winners will receive:

*Four (4) VIP Hospitality Passes for the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*A Course walk with an Eventing Rider for four (4) people during the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*Land Rover Test Drive at the Land Rover off-road experience for four (4) people at a pre-arranged time during the 2020 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.
*Land Rover Branded Swag for winner only.
*Sponsor to provide a catered tailgate for four (4) people using a Land Rover vehicle in the Sponsor VIP section of the Tailgate Parking Area during the Cross Country competition on Saturday, April 25, 2020.
*One (1) Preferred Tailgate Space for the 2021 EEI Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event which will include (6) General Admission Tickets for Saturday,April 2021.

To enter, simply fill out this form. Entries are currently open and being accepted through April 1, so don’t wait! Good luck to you, and we’ll see you in Kentucky!

Thursday Notes from Taylor Harris Insurance Services (THIS)

By on Feb 13, 2020 12:03 am -

A perfect horse bridge! Photo by Darrah Alexander.

This unseasonably warm winter weather has me more prepared in February than I’ve been in a long time, especially with a young horse that doesn’t go south and start competing until March. I’m feeling ready to tackle this year, and hopefully move up some levels and start doing some big boy jumps again!

National Holiday: National Tortellini Day

U.S. Weekend Preview:

Rocking Horse Winter II: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Paradise Farm H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

Fresno County Horse Park H.T.: [Website][Entry Status][Ride Times]

News From Around the Globe:

Never let it be said that a small and average-moving horse isn’t worth giving a chance. In the current culture of the big fancy warmblood, lots of small and ordinary horses get overlooked, but they’re just waiting for the right person to bring out the magic. Dressage legend Lendon Gray opened up about the pony that defined her career, and how special Seldom Seen was as her first self-trained Grand Prix horse. [I Made My Career on a Small Average Mover]

Anyone want to move to England with me and also buy me this equine dream farm? Shurdington Farm sits on the edge of Cheltenham, and checks all the boxes with lots of paddocks, stalls, a solarium, an outdoor mirrored arena, and a round pen. Oh yeah, and a house for humans. [Droolworthy Equestrian Property for Sale]

Off track Thoroughbreds get lots of attention for second careers, but don’t forget about off track Standardbreds! Monmouth County Hunt in New Jersey recently hosted a Standardbred Hunt Day, attracting OTS’s from three states, showcasing their versatility after the racetrack. Well known for their great temperaments, soundness, and smooth gaits, Standardbreds take well to fox hunting, and showed it on this day in particular. [Standardbred Fox Hunting Day]

Best of Blogs: Lots To Learn

Hot on Horse Nation: Better Than Good: Tall Tales and Straight Talk from the Backside of the Track

Painted Ponies Art Walk & Auction to Benefit Carolina Horse Park Foundation

By on Feb 12, 2020 5:48 pm -

Nikki Lienhard’s Dream Big ‘Says the Alicorn.’ Sponsored by Better Homes and Garden Real Estate Lifestyle Property Partners, Opulence of Southern Pines & Patricia. Located at The Mews (280 NW Broad St).

Painted Ponies are roaming the streets of downtown Southern Pines! The inaugural Painted Ponies Art Walk and Auction runs from Feb. 8 through April 2 as 10 five-foot tall fiberglass works of art line Broad Street for all to view as visitors walk the downtown area. After the display is over, the ponies will be auctioned off on April 4 with the proceeds benefiting the Carolina Horse Park Foundation.

Carolina Horse Park is, of course, a preeminent venue on the Area II eventing calendar and host of approximately 28 weeks of equestrian events each year. The venue’s 2020 eventing calendar is already up and running — its second of two Pipe Opener combined tests takes place this Saturday, Feb. 15. Its first USEA-recognized event of the spring is Southern Pines H.T. on March 7-8, followed by Carolina International CCI and H.T. on March 18-22. Other events throughout the year include its War Horse Event Series,  Longleaf Pine H.T., Five Points H.T. and WHES Eventing Series. View a full calendar of events here.

Founded in 1998 as a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization by equestrian enthusiasts, CHP is dedicated to the preservation of open space for equestrian events, as well as educational and recreational purposes. We are grateful for their support of the eventing community, and the Painted Ponies Art Walk and Auction is an opportunity to support them in kind.

Jenay Jarvis’ “Water for Horses.” Sponsored by The Country Bookshop. Located in front of Framer’s Cottage (162 NW Broad St).

“The Carolina Horse Park is proud to bring the Painted Ponies Art Walk to downtown Southern Pines. It demonstrates our commitment to our local businesses and artists while also highlighting our equestrian heritage and community,” said Bryan Rosenberg, chairman of the board for the Carolina Horse Park. “The Art Walk has been a phenomenal community effort. We look forward to visitors and residents enjoying the painted ponies while they line Broad Street and generously support the auction on April 4th.”

Local businesses coordinated to sponsor the painted ponies that will be placed at 10 locations in downtown Southern Pines. Artists from the Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area donated their time and talent to transform the fiberglass ponies into exquisite works of art. Once the display ends on April 2, the Painted Ponies will be removed and auctioned off. The auction will take place on Saturday, April 4, at Big Sky Farm from 1-4 p.m. in Southern Pines.

A gallery of the Painted Ponies — photos by Diane McKay and Joseph Hill:

Visitors viewing the Painted Ponies Art Walk are invited to use the hashtag #PaintedPoniesCHP when taking pictures and posting them to social media.

For more information about the Painted Ponies Art Walk and Auction, visit www.CarolinaHorsePark.com.

Wednesday Video from Kentucky Performance Products: Hey Hwin!

By on Feb 12, 2020 2:30 pm -

We simply can’t get enough of Elisa Wallace‘s magical Mustang mare, Hwin, and we’re so glad to see her back out eventing again! It’s been a while since we’ve been able to look through those adorable black-tipped ears courtesy of one of Elisa’s helmet cams. Hwin had a bit of a break for a few years while Elisa focused on competing her upper-level horse and her last completion was in 2017 at Poplar Place.

By the look of this video, Hwin was pretty happy to get back out on the cross country course last weekend at Three Lakes competing in the Open Novice. Of course, having competed up to the Preliminary level in years past she was raring to go!

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