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November/December 2013
| EQUINE CANADA | Equine Canada is pleased to recognize the following funding partners and sponsors
November/December 2013
DEPARTMENTS
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WE HAVE MOVED!
Equine Canada
Our new address: 308 Legget Drive, Suite 100, Ottawa ON K2K 1Y6
Sport
Our new phone number: (613) 287–1515
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Our staff extensions, toll-free, and fax numbers remain the same:
Health & Welfare
Toll free — 1-866-282-8395
Canada Hippique
Fax — (613) 248-3484
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Photo © Ingram Barss
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Photo © Cealy Tetley
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Photo © Carmen Marie Fabio Photo © Shannon Brinkman
On the cover / En page couverture : Yann Candele claimed the Canadian Show Jumping Championship title for the fourth consecutive year on a brand new mount, Showgirl, at the CSI4*-W Royal Horse Show in Toronto, ON. Photo © Cealy Tetley Note: in the following pages the
symbol signifies a Canadian-bred horse.
equinecanada November | December 2013 3
308 Legget Drive, Suite 100 Ottawa, ON Canada K2K 1Y6 Tel: (613) 287-1515, Toll Free: 1-866-282-8395 Fax: (613) 248-3484 www.equinecanada.ca
Directors
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Tony La Giorgia
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| EQUINE CANADA | SPORT |
President s Message As we bid farewell to 2013, I want to discuss several new rule changes coming in 2014 concerning protective headgear. As most of you know, we have required helmets at all hunter/jumper competitions and Para-Dressage competitions for several years. Two years ago we became the first country in the world to require protective headgear for all levels of dressage at Equine Canada competitions. USEF quickly followed this requirement last year. In 2014 the dressage portion of eventing in Canada will require headgear at all levels, which will match U.S. rules. Until now, endurance rules have strongly recommended protective headgear for seniors, but as of 2014 it will be compulsory. In driving, all juniors in a carriage must wear headgear. Additionally, in the New Year, general performance competitors will be required to wear protective headgear in hack class, as well as all juniors in western hack classes. At the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships (CIEC) this year in Calgary, AB, all junior reining competitors wore protective headgear. I saw pictures of the FEI European Reining Championship for Young Riders and Juniors, and the vast majority of competitors were also wearing protective headgear. In some countries it is actually law that junior reiners wear protective headgear. There are many states and provinces that now have laws requiring protective headgear when riding a horse (mostly regarding juniors). However, many of those laws exempt competitions. Many people believe that jumping is the high risk area. Unfortunately, I have had the horrible experience of witnessing two people die riding a horse without protective headgear, and neither one was jumping. Equine Canada’s Sport Council created a “Helmet Committee” recently. One of its goals is to increase education in the area of protective headgear and head injury. The committee is working with breed sport and western disciplines to discuss long term headgear policies. The committee hopes to work closely with the U.S. parent organizations of many of our breed and
western disciplines, and to be part of their discussions regarding headgear (but has no intention of mandating headgear in these traditional western attire disciplines). One very important rule that I would like to emphasize is that all of Equine Canada’s rule books regarding breed and western disciplines allow any competitor to wear protective headgear if they choose to WITHOUT penalty. This is an educational issue that we want to highlight across the country with competitors, and especially with officials and coaches. In the near future we plan to conduct a survey with our breed and western competitors to solicit their views on the matter. In closing, as I wrote this final message for the year, we have just issued a statement that Jean-Christophe Gandubert has left Equine Canada. While this is a most regrettable situation, I want to assure you that the Equine Canada Board is determined to find a new CEO as quickly as possible. A New Year brings new beginnings...Enjoy your winter riding season and stay safe. Michael Gallagher, President, Equine Canada president@equinecanada.ca
equinecanada equinecanadaNovember November| |December December2013 2013 5
| EQUINE CANADA |
Cast Your Vote. Have Your Say!
VOTING UNDERWAY FOR 2014 EQUINE CANADA DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE ELECTION
V
oting is now open for the 2014 Equine Canada Director-at-Large election. Members of Equine Canada who are in good standing and 18 years of age or older (as of Oct. 30, 2013) are eligible to cast one vote in the election.
MEET THE 2014 DIRECTORAT-LARGE CANDIDATES: Tony Eames
In addition to a 35 year career working in senior management positions for a large multinational corporation, I have extensive board and not-for-profit experience. My career with The Coca-Cola Company culminated in my appointment to the position of President and CEO of Coca-Cola Canada, a position I held for 13 years. My not-for-profit experience includes a 10-year term on the Board of Tennis Canada, with three years served as Chairman. During that 10 year period, Tennis Canada re-invented itself, moving from an inwardly focused, dysfunctional organization to what most would agree today is one of Canada’s leading and most progressive athlete-centered national sporting federations. I have also been Treasurer of Special Olympics Canada, President of the Bayview Golf and Country Club, and am currently a board member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, where I serve as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee and Chair of the Investment Committee. I have also served on the board of a publicly held corporation as Chair of the Compensation Committee. Why am I running for election? Having been close to the world of dressage for nearly 40 years (25 years of which has been spent watching Equine Canada go through many, many changes trying to address some very difficult challenges), I now feel the time is right for me to get involved and help EC do what I believe Tennis Canada has done so well. Why is the time right? Most importantly, EC has new leadership; 6 www.equinecanada.ca
leadership committed to high level aspirations for the organization. Added to that, my term on the Tennis Canada Board has now expired, so I do have the time needed to work closely with the new leadership team as they work to raise the bar and create a world class organization. In summary, I feel I am well qualified for the Directorat-Large position, the time is right for me to apply for it, and I have the passion and necessary commitment to the sport to help EC achieve its challenging goals.
Kim Inglis
Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. It seizes a person whole and once it has done so, he/ she will have to accept that his life will be radically changed.” I could not agree more. Horses have had an immeasurable impact on my life and I attribute much of my success to lessons learned in the saddle. I’ve already committed to giving back to the equine community but I want to do more. I have extensive experience with non-profit governance and strategic planning. I’m a Director and Past President of the New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption Society. Over the past five years, I’ve secured countless media appearances and formed equine-related strategic alliances across North America. I’ve led key fundraisers and headed various organizational platforms. Professionally, I bring a diverse set of skills to the table. While my career is in the financial industry, I’m also involved with media communications. Additionally, I have experience in the technology industry having developed mobile apps. On the competitive side, I’m a former elite-level athlete in sprint canoe with firsthand knowledge of the challenges Canadian athletes face. Although this experience comes via a different sport, the challenges are universal. I’ve
| EQUINE CANADA |
been involved with horses for 25 years recreationally and competitively. I’m a member of EC and HCBC, and effective 2014 will also belong to the OEF. As Director-at-Large I can make a positive difference in Canada’s equestrian community.
Tony La Giorgia
My participation in the horse world is diverse, having progressed from recreational rider and competitor to volunteer and EC official. Highlights include a two-year term on the organizing committee of a provincial championship, and officiating. Both roles have given me the opportunity to connect with riders, coaches, parents, breeders, and volunteers. I am a Montreal-based entrepreneur, educated at Concordia University and University of Guelph, with experience in property management and landscape design. My professional background includes coaching, training, and quality assurance as well as organizational development at a multinational insurance company. I also have volunteer experience with various charitable organizations including the CURE and Children’s Wish foundations. EC has made strides in recent years in developing and implementing national standards to promote excellence, encourage accessibility and ensure a viable horse industry in Canada. With continued focus, these can be achieved by establishing solid policies, effective management, and open communication, and by actively promoting sportsmanship. These guiding principles will help shape EC into an organization where everyone has an equal voice and their opinions are valued. It’s been a busy three years, connecting with many members to discover how EC could better serve them. I have had the good fortune to serve on a number of EC committees, including Chair of the Nominations, Governance and Ethics Committee, and member of the Strategic Planning Committee (including being the principal author of “One Vision”). I currently hold the Officer position of Secretary on the board. I ask for your support and trust once again, so that I can continue to serve the membership and build EC into an organization of which we can all be proud.
How to Vote: To vote, members must visit www.equinecanada.ca, log in using their Equine Canada username and password, and register to vote. The voting process must be completed immediately upon voter registration. If a member does not have a personalized Equine Canada username and password, they will need to complete the online selfregistration form at https://licence.equinecanada.ca/dal_ registration/index.aspx in order for login information to be provided. Members may also vote via mail by contacting Equine Canada voting services before Jan. 14, 2013 at nominations@equinecanada.ca to request a Register to Vote Form. Once registered, the member will receive an election package including a ballot. Election packages can be sent either by mail, fax, or e-mail, as per the member’s request.
Voting for the election will close on Jan. 16, 2014.
Members may contact Katherine Strong at kstrong@ equinecanada.ca with any questions regarding the 2014 Director-at-Large election. The successful candidate will be announced to the membership at the Equine Canada Annual General Meeting, to be held Feb. 7, 2014 as part of the Equine Canada Annual Convention at the Radisson Hotel in Winnipeg, MB.
About the Director-at-Large Election Each year the Equine Canada Nominations Committee has the responsibility of presenting a slate of candidates to the membership for the election of a Director-atLarge. The Equine Canada Board of Directors consists of three Director-at-Large positions, which are elected by the membership. One Director-at-Large position is elected each year and serves a three-year term.
equinecanada November | December 2013 7
| SPORT IN MEMORIAM | |
Margaret Murdoch (1923–2013)
William (Bill) Koyle (1940–2013)
Margaret “Maggie” Murdoch, respected Equine Canada Judge and FEI level 3 Steward, passed away on Dec. 3, 2013 in her home town of Orangeville, ON in her 90th year.
It is with regret that we recognize the passing of William (Bill) Koyle, a passionate volunteer and respected horseman, who passed away on Oct. 2, 2013.
Ms. Murdoch first became a member of Equine Canada in 1952. By 1989, she had become a certified Equine Canada jump judge working events in Ontario, and by 1992 was a qualified steward in jumping and dressage; serving as the FEI General Steward for dressage for many years. Over the past 24 years she represented Canada at both EC sanctioned and FEI events, her most recent being the 2013 CornerStone Spring into Dressage this past June. “Maggie was a mentor in our equestrian family, and a leader in our FEI education through the early years. However, I shall recall Maggie for her wicked sense of humour. She could tell a story and just leave you giggling. She had the gift of putting you at ease, a great asset when dealing with nervous competitors! She will be sorely missed,” stated Jan Stephens, FEI Canadian Steward General for Jumping and Eventing. Ms. Murdoch was also an FEI level 2 Para-Equestrian Dressage Steward. She was Chief Steward at the 2006 Pacific Rim International Para-Equestrian Dressage Competition held in Langley, BC as well as the 2010 WindReach International ParaEquestrian Dressage competition held in Ashburn, ON. In 2007, Ms. Murdoch joined the Canadian Para-Equestrian Committee (CPEC), and remained a valued member until 2011. She was also a member of the Para-Equestrian Officials Committee from 2006–2010. “Maggie was an incredible staunch supporter of equestrian sport in Canada, and will be very missed by many in the community. Maggie was always a steadying figure whose integrity, depth of knowledge and experience always proved to be invaluable, particularly to those fortunate enough to have worked and mentored with her throughout the years. The equestrian community owes Maggie a great debt of gratitude,” commented Kerri McGregor, member of the Board of Directors, Equine Canada. Ms. Murdoch will be remembered for her passion, commitment and contributions to furthering excellence in Canada’s equestrian sport. On behalf of Equine Canada we extend our sincerest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.
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“Bill had a huge impact on eventing in Canada,” stated Equine Canada President Michael Gallagher. “He was truly one of the founding builders of the modern day eventing that we have in Canada today.” Koyle sat on numerous Equine Canada committees and served as an Equine Canada and FEI Technical Delegate at many prestigious events such as Tempel Farms Young Riders Championships (USA), Punchestown CCI (Ireland) and the Boekelo CCI (Netherlands). Koyle played an integral role in the development of Canada’s Quadrennial Plan, created with the objective of putting eventers on the podium internationally. As the organizer of Ridgewood Farms CCI, he hosted the Young Riders Championships and the first 2-star CCI in Canada. Koyle also served as President of the Ontario Horse Trials Association and was a Chair of Horse Trials Canada. “The Canadian Eventing Committee expresses deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Bill Koyle,” stated Peggy Hambly, Chair of the Canadian Eventing Committee. “His enthusiasm for eventing and life will be sadly missed. From time to time Bill would combine his passions and could be seen “buzzing” such events as Will’O Wind in his WWII airplane.” Koyle retired from Equine Canada and FEI duties over 10 years ago to focus on his passion for aviation. He was Chairman of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton, ON and became very involved the Great War Flying Museum in Brampton, ON. A memorial service/celebration will be planned in the spring of 2014 in conjunction with the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. Equine Canada would like to extend heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Koyle.
| IN MEMORIAM |
Reiki Tyme (1999–2013) Equine Canada regretfully reports that 14-year-old Hanoverian gelding, Reiki Tyme, beloved partner of Canadian dressage rider Roberta Byng-Morris, has passed away. “Roberta had a great relationship with Reiki Tyme. They performed consistently throughout the Pan Am trials in 2011 and were strong members of the silver medal winning Canadian Dressage Team at the Pan American Games in Guadalajara, MEX. Reiki managed all the stresses of travel and the pressure that comes with being on a team. I will always remember how he pulled through a difficult warm up for a perfect Individual ride for Roberta at the Games. He was a true competitor,” stated Gina Smith, Chef d’Equipe for Canada’s dressage team at the 2011 Pan American Games. Byng-Morris offered the following comments.
“I purchased Reiki Tyme as a four-year-old in 2003 with the goal of one day achieving my lifelong dream of becoming a member of the Canadian Dressage Team. It was Reiki who gave me the strength to carry on when my husband Dawson Mizener passed away in 2009. Reiki taught me that whatever happens in life, you have to keep believing. He foundered in 2010, which he recovered from through round-the-clock care. Reiki was a fighter and always gave me his best. His greatest strength was his reliability in the show ring. Reiki was hospitalized in December 2012 for colic, with an undetermined cause. He was given three weeks to live. I brought him home for palliative care where he enjoyed his days roaming free on the farm.”
[left to right] The late Dawson Mizener, daughter Tia Mizener, Reiki Tyme and Roberta Byng-Morris.
equinecanada November | December 2013 9
| SPORT IN MEMORIAM | |
Korona (1992–2013) Korona and Shannon Dueck
Equine Canada regretfully reports that 21-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Korona, beloved partner of Canadian Equestrian Team dressage rider Shannon Dueck, was humanely euthanized on Saturday, September 21 as a result of age-related health issues. “Korona was a talented, powerful yet elegant international competitor, whose charisma in and out of the competition ring was legendary,” said Equine Canada President Michael Gallagher. “Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the Dueck family and all of those who had the privilege of knowing this great horse.” Dueck and Korona had many domestic and international successes, including the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, where they proved extremely competitive and, in spectacular fashion, won the Freestyle competition and claimed the individual silver medal for Canada.
Photo © Cealy Tetley
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“Korona (Kees) came to me as a wild three year old, and together we proudly represented Canada at the 1999 Pan Am Games, the 2002 FEI World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain, and the 2003 World Cup Final in Göteborg, Sweden,” said Dueck. “He was a very special spirit embodied in plain bay horse body. We had to make the wrenching decision to put him down - he was in a lot of pain from laminitis. I don’t know where great horses go when they die, but I know he is there and I know he is royalty.”
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Monica Grundmann and Excalibur Legend Represent Canada in 160 km Endurance Race in Florida Battling a rare form of cancer, but determined to live each day as if it’s her last BY JAMES PARRY, YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL
and even though I will still have to go for follow-up three times a year for the next five, I have been training and competing ever since,” said Grundmann. This past September, the duo contested a second international competition in Stormont, this time completing a distance of 120 km, and placing third against very impressive competition.
The original version of this article appeared in the Nov. 21, 2013 issue of Your Local Journal. It has been edited and reprinted with permission.
H
ealth-wise, these past two years have been a rough ride for Monica Grundmann, a former resident of St. Lazare, QC whose Silhouette Stables was a mecca for dressage, eventing, jumper, and western riders, and even happy hackers. Following surgery for what she thought was just a painful case of appendicitis and hemorrhaging, she learned that she was, in fact, suffering from an extremely rare form of cancer — Goblet Cell Carcinoid — that only affects about one per cent of the population. “I was totally devastated and felt like the rug had been pulled out from under me,” said Grundmann, a competitive rider who currently owns a stable in Bainsville, ON. “I felt really great after the operations and was looking forward to the 2012 competitive season.” “I went for all the testing and so forth; blood work and scanning in Ottawa, only to find out that they could not at this point see any cancer cells,” she continued. “I was told, though, that with this cancer and its nature it is best to go in and have the ovaries removed, 38 lymph nodes, and have a right hemicolectomy.” Undaunted, Grundmann decided to wait until after June so she could represent Canada in her first international 80 km endurance competition in Stormont, ON with her Morab stallion, Excalibur Legend. And despite all odds, they came in third place, just two seconds behind the winner, the United States. “I was thrilled beyond what words could describe and so grateful to be alive. I underwent the recommended surgery in October last year. I have recovered from it,
Photo © Carmen Marie Fabio
At the completion of the Stormont event, Grundmann turned her focus toward representing Eastern Canada in the CEI3* North America Team Challenge, held in December in Bronson, FL, USA. Teams from Canada, the U.S., and Mexico traveled to Florida for the 160 km race, which spanned over 24 hours. Her preparation involved riding in sand and mud, and over rocks; riding during daylight and in darkness; and persevering through all kinds of weather in order to better deal with all of the elements involved in a race of this length and caliber. “I am proud to have represented Canada in this very demanding and gruelling endurance race. I have always and will continue to live each day as if it is my last, saying and doing the maximum. Obviously, my personal goals regarding my beloved stallion, his competitions and his legacy, are paramount for me. Together, he and I have achieved much more than I ever could have dreamed of, and I am extremely grateful for being blessed to have him,” said Grundmann, adding, “I do believe that I am healed and cured and continue on my life’s path with my family, husband, and horses. I am blessed as well to have a husband who allows me to live my life and go ahead with the horse plans too.” equinecanada November | December 2013 11
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Mounted Games require balance and accuracy. This year’s international event was hosted in Ontario.
Canadian Pony Club Enjoys Successful Season of International and National Competition BY HEATHER AGNEW, CANADIAN PONY CLUB NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
C
anadian Pony Club riders travelled across the country, and the world, to compete in show jumping, dressage, and mounted games during the 2013 season.
Two international competitions took place, one hosted in Canada, and another in Australia. Held as part of an exchange program, these competitions lasted between one and two weeks. In addition to competing and gaining exposure to different riding styles, participants had the chance to experience different cultures and forge new friendships.
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The Canadian Pony Club show season was packed with other local, national, and international competitions and events, such as show jumping, weekend-long rallies, educational clinics and tetrathlon, a sport exclusive to Pony Club that involves four phases of competition. The Canadian Pony Club is proud to be part of an international group of organizations promoting equestrian knowledge, skill, and youth ambassadorship nationwide, and throughout the world. In 2010, the Canadian Pony Club was officially inducted into the Jump Canada Hall of Fame as a builder organization, recognizing excellence in leadership and commitment to equestrian sport. Currently Canada is home to 150 branches and 3,500 members. For more information, and to find your closest branch, visit: www.canadianponyclub.org.
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2013 International and National Competition Results Inter-Pacific Exchange (IPE), July 26– Aug. 12, 2013 — Queensland, AUS The IPE is held every other year and gives senior Pony Clubbers the opportunity to meet other members from around the world. Athletes from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and the United States participate in a series of competitions, culminating with a Nations’ Cup style show jumping competition. Team Canada finished fifth in the final jumping competition. Team members included: Rider/ Region Eleanor MacLean / BC Lower Mainlands Natasha Matte / St. Lawrence Ottawa Valley Samara Balfour / Western Ontario Region Trevor Clarke / BC Lower Mainlands
International Mounted Games Exchange (IMGE), Aug. 9–25, 2013 — Ontario This year Canada played host to an IMGE (an annual competition that rotates between Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and the United States). The competition took place in Fergus, ON. The athletes also participated in a tour across Southern Ontario, giving them the opportunity to learn more about Canadian culture. Team Canada finished in fourth place overall in the competition. Team members included: Rider / Region Walker Breen / Western Ontario Region Alyssa Yu / Western Ontario Region Taylor Brenneis / Alberta North Kate-Lynn Connelly / Alberta North Jordan McVittie / Central Ontario Region Paige Hodson enjoys the top of the podium at the Canadian Pony Club National Show Jumping Medal Finals.
National Show Jumping, July 26–28, 2013 — Prince George, BC MEDAL FINALS Result / Rider / Region 1 / Paige Hodson / Saskatchewan 2 / Hannah Jensen / Alberta Central 3 / Sam Thirkell / BC Lower Mainland
National Dressage, Aug. 1–4, 2013 — Calgary, AB FIRST LEVEL Result / Rider / Region / Score 1 / Nicole Ketter / BC Interior / 71.765% 2 / Lindsay Weber / Central Ontario Region / 66.454% 3 / Sarah Gilmour / BC Lower Mainlands / 65.995% SECOND LEVEL Result / Rider / Region / Score 1 / Carly Alexander / Alberta North / 68.181% 2 / Miranda Spencer / BC Lower Mainlands / 65.662% 3 / Melissa Bayer / St. Lawrence Ottawa Valley / 65.431%
Team Canada competes at the 2013 Inter-Pacific Exchange, hosted by Australia.
equinecanada November | December 2013 13
| SPORT |
Yann Cand e
le an
d Sho wgirl
Jumping to the Top: Yann Candele is on the Rise
I
t has been a landmark year for Yann Candele. The 42-year-old from Caledon, ON racked up many wins and top three placings at some of Canada’s biggest and most prestigious show jumping competitions in 2013, including the CSI2* Rockwood, CSI2*-W Blainville, CSI2* Caledon, and the CSI2* Orangeville. He also made his mark on the international scene, travelling to Barcelona, ESP in September for a CSIO5* competition, where he finished second in the €30,000 La Caixa 1.45m speed class, and sixth in the €30,000 Coca-Cola Trophy 1.45m speed class.
14 www.equinecanada.ca
Photo ©
Cealy T e
tley
In addition, Candele made history at the 2013 CSI4*-W Royal Horse Show in November by becoming the first rider to take the Greenhawk Canadian Championships four times in a row (See the Royal Review article on page 18 for details). Even more impressive than his four-peat was the fact that he was barely acquainted with his equine partner for this year’s win. Candele began riding Showgirl, a 13-year-old Selle Francais mare, just weeks before The Royal, and the Canadian Championship marked their very first competition together.
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Showgirl came to Candele under awe-worthy circumstances. Fellow Canadian show jumping rider and 2008 Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze orchestrated the purchase by unifying a group of owners. Albro Creek Farm, Andy and Carlene Ziegler of Artisan Farms, John Edwards, and Uplands Farm joined Lamaze in supporting Candele by providing him with a world-class mount. The purchase came about during the CSIO5* Barcelona competition, where Showgirl represented Canada in the Nations Cup Final under the guidance of former owner and rider Jonathan Asselin of Attaché Stables. “I’ve always been impressed with Yann’s riding and watching him in Barcelona confirmed that he’s a worldclass competitor; we need people like him on the team,” said Lamaze, who has a long history with Candele. In fact, Lamaze was a big factor in Candele’s move to Canada from France in 1999. What was supposed to be a two-week visit to Lamaze’s Torrey Pines Stables in Schomberg, ON morphed into an eight-year stay, working at the farm as a rider, trainer, and coach. “When I approached this group of people about helping me to support Yann, they all said ‘yes’ without hesitation,” continued Lamaze. “It is extraordinary to see everyone coming together, and I thank them all for joining me. We hope that together, Yann and Showgirl will be able to do great things for Canada.” Equine Canada recently caught up with Candele just before he left for Wellington, FL, USA in order to compete in the prestigious FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, which features 12 weeks of CSIlevel show jumping competition that draws the best riders from around the world. Read the following interview to find out what Candele had to say about this exciting time in his life, and what his future plans and goals are for Showgirl.
hardest. I was lucky to win four times in a row by being clear every time. That’s what it takes to be able to win at that level of competition. It just went my way, but I tried really hard and that’s why it happened. You just try your hardest, and after you see where you end up. EC: Eric Lamaze spearheaded the group that purchased Showgirl. How does it feel to have this type of strong support from a colleague? YC: I think it’s great. Everyone is thinking of the quality of the horses and trying to be well mounted. Because in championships, you can only ride one horse and you need four or five riders to be able to make a team. So Eric is thinking about team spirit and he is very supportive of me and all the riders. I think it’s very good for the sport and I am very lucky to have his support. EC: The 2013 Canadian Show Jumping Championships was your first time competing with Showgirl. What was that experience like? YC: It was phenomenal to be able to ride her. We had just purchased her two weeks before with the group of owners, Albro Creek Farm, Andy and Carlene Ziegler’s Artisan Farms, Uplands Farm, John Edwards, and Eric Lamaze. They are all behind me and the team. So there were a lot of unknowns and I had decided not to take too many risks. We were so delighted because she won the Canadian Championship, so it was a very good start. Now we have a long way to go to learn about her, so will just keep performing. EC: Tell us about Showgirl. Do you think you are wellmatched for each other? How is the relationship coming along so far?
EC: You’ve won the Canadian Championship four times. What do you think are the contributing factors that allowed you to accomplish this feat?
YC: What better start could we have? We did six classes at The Royal and went clear in five of them. And the one class (we had faults in) was just because we don’t know each other and it was a little bit of a misunderstanding. So I think coming from there, it’s a very good start. After that, it will just take time to understand her better and anticipate what she wants to do. I’m very delighted with her. She is what we thought she would be. She’s a very scopey, brave, and careful horse and she has a lot of qualities we like in show jumpers. So it’s just getting to know each other and becoming consistent. Time will tell.
YC: I don’t think it’s any specific factor. I think you take any championship really seriously and you try your
EC: How do you feel about your chances of competing at WEG next year? (Continued on following page)
EQUINE CANADA INTERVIEW WITH YANN CANDELE
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YC: It’s a long road. We have WEG in the back of our minds. It’s what we are trying to achieve. My goal is to represent Canada at WEG. But, after saying that, you do have to take it step by step. It’s just the beginning, you have to keep going until next September, performing at the highest level and being consistent in order to be invited to the team. So I think we are going to take it step by step, week by week and try to organize a good program for Showgirl and myself to be able to try to go to WEG. But after that it is the decision of the Technical Advisor/Coach Mark Laskin. So it’s in our hands to do well but that’s about all we can control. EC: WEG 2014 is taking place in your hometown of Normandy, FRA. Would competing for Canada in your birthplace hold special meaning for you? YC: Yes, absolutely. It would be a special moment to be able to ride over there. I know everything about Normandy because I’m from there and I have a lot of family and friends over there. To be able to represent Canada in Normandy would be a special opportunity and it’s very exciting. EC: When it comes to competing in major games, how do you think the current Canadian show jumping horses and riders compare to the rest of the world? YC: I think the quality of riders is there. I can name many riders who are definitely capable of jumping at that level and performing well. After that, I think the difference is to have the chance to have owners who support us to get the quality of horses. We do to a certain extent, like what happened with Showgirl. I think that hopefully we’ll motivate some other owners to try to be part of the Canadian Team and represent the country at major events, because we have WEG coming up right now, but we also have the Pan American Games following that, and then the Olympic Games. It’s three major games coming hard and heavy and horses are a big factor. And other countries in the world, including emerging countries in show jumping like Saudi Arabia, are developing riders and acquiring very good horses. But our quality of riders is there. Our depth of horses isn’t as deep as some other countries, but I mean that’s the way it is. So we will see. WEG is around the corner, but after that there are still a lot of major events and I’m hopeful that we’re going to carry forward. EC: What are your short-term and long-term goals with Showgirl? Going forward, what will your game plan look like in terms of meeting these goals? 16 www.equinecanada.ca
YC: I think it’s very clear for me and Showgirl and the group of owners; we are all together on the short-term goal to represent Canada at all the different Nations’ Cup classes. Coming up, we have the chance to represent Canada at Wellington in Florida. And, we have to go to Florida to develop the mare and get to know her. Soon after that there is Calgary where we have another Nations’ Cup and I hope to be part of it and be able to represent Canada again. Then it’s just letting Mark Laskin decide who’s fit to represent Canada at WEG.
10 Interesting Facts About Yann Candele 1. He’s been riding since he was 10 years old. 2. He represented his home country of France twice at the European Junior Championships. 3. He has competed throughout Europe under the sponsorship of Samsung France. 4. He spent time living, riding, and competing in Japan. He even won the 1991–1992 Asian World Cup League, and continues to be the only nonJapanese rider to hold this title. 5. He spent 10 months providing civilian service in the cavalry unit of the French Army. 6. He made his Nations’ Cup debut for France in 2001, and also represented France at the 2004 World Cup Final in Milan, ITA. 7. He opened his own horse training business, Normandy Hills, in 2007. 8. He became a Canadian citizen in 2009. His first major games appearance as part of the Canadian Equestrian Team was at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, where he helped the show jumping team take fifth place. 9. When he’s not riding, he enjoys playing golf. He is also a huge Toronto Maple Leafs fan. 10. He is married to fellow Canadian show jumping rider Jennifer Candele. They have three children, Alexandre, Tate, and Mathilde.
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Nel Godin-Keating
and Beau
Photo © Ingram Barss
Nova Scotia Para-Equestrian Scene Changing Lives THE GODIN-KEATING FAMILY SHARES THEIR STORY Dear Fellow Dressage Competitors, When you attend a dressage competition, how do you win spontaneous support, smiles, and well wishes from competitors? The answer? Compete in the discipline of Para-Equestrian in Nova Scotia. Nel Godin-Keating from Dartmouth, NS entered her first Para-Equestrian dressage competition in 2011 with the Riders Interested in Dressage and English Riding Society (R.I.D.E.R.S). And, recently she added a Central Nova Horse and Pony (CNHP) venue to her mini “circuit.” From her very first query into the dressage world (“Excuse me, what exactly is a prize list?”), Nova Scotia embraced Nel as a legitimate equestrian, and as a person. After her first show, three years ago, Nel said, “I have the type of cerebral palsy that cannot stop me from doing anything.” From strangers who say, “Good ride, Nel,” to others who hold her beloved “Mr. Itchy” while she mounts, the support has helped Nel sustain this belief in herself. Competing in Nova Scotia gives Nel a deep sense of pride and belonging. For Nel, and for our family, the equestrian community has been a huge gift (draft-size!).
Over the dreary winters, we enter Para-Equestrian Canada’s Sea-to-Sea video competitions. These opportunities encourage Nel to ride her best and challenge herself with increasingly difficult tests throughout what would otherwise be eight cold, uneventful months. The arrival of a creased Fed-Ex package from Western Canada, with a score sheet, judges’ remarks, and a ribbon, is eagerly anticipated and poured over with enthusiastic smiles. There are many, many remarkable people in Nel’s ParaEquestrian story; from side-walkers to Cathy Hutson, who let her treasured “Itch” become Nel’s para-horse. An enormous thank you needs to be said to them and to everyone else who makes the Para-Equestrian sport possible.To R.I.D.E.R.S, the CNHP, and all of those who helped Nel feel important; to feel like she belongs, and to believe in her heart that she can do anything— we thank you. And finally, our best “halt and salute” to Para-Equestrian Canada, which has demonstrated extraordinary leadership by creating access, opportunity, and inclusion in sport for persons with disabilities. With much warmth and appreciation, Lorraine and Nel Godin-Keating and Roger Godin equinecanada November | December 2013 17
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A Review: Highlights from the 91st Annual Royal Horse Show
T
All photos © Cealy Tetley
he Royal Horse Show is an institution in Canada. Each year it draws hundreds of competitors and thousands of spectators to the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto, ON’s Exhibition Place for 10 days of exciting, equestrian-related competition.
Yann Candele claimed the Canadian Show Jumping Championship title for the fourth consecutive year on a brand new mount, Showgirl.
This year’s 91st edition of The Royal Horse Show took place Nov. 1–10. As always, one of the main highlights was the CSI 4*-W show jumping. Some of Canada’s best riders attended, vying for national honours, and going head-to-head against a stacked field of international riders from the United States, Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Great Britain. Canadian and international riders alike challenged demanding and innovative courses set by Michel Vaillancourt (who was the resident course designer throughout The Royal). Renowned as Canada’s first equestrian athlete to win an Individual Olympic Medal, Vaillancourt took Silver in front of a hometown crowd at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. As an FEI 4* course designer, he has created courses for some of the most prestigious show jumping events around the world. Throughout the 10 days of competition, Vaillancourt creatively utilized every inch of the Ricoh Coliseum for Canadian series finals, as well as a dynamic range of international classes, from the $15,000 International Canine/Equine Challenge to the $75,000 Ricoh Big Ben International Challenge to the recently established $100,000 Hickstead FEI World Cup Grand Prix.
Candele Continues to Break Records in Canadian Championship As per tradition, show jumping kicked off at The Royal Horse Show with the annual Canadian Championship, held during the evening performances on Nov. 1 and 2. 18 www.equinecanada.ca
Yann Candele of Caledon, ON delighted opening weekend crowds by jumping to a record-breaking fourth consecutive Canadian Show Jumping Championship title. Riding his newly-acquired (and barely acquainted) partner, Showgirl, Candele put in three fault-free performances over two classes — the $25,000 Greenhawk Canadian Cup Round 1, and $50,000 Greenhawk Canadian Cup Round 2. “I don’t know her very well yet. We are just getting used to each other,” said Candele, who was competing with the 13-year-old Selle Francais mare for the first time. “(Showgirl) just carried me around. I’m so pleased with her,” he raved after the championship presentation, before adding, “The Canadian Championship is a big deal for me. I’m proud of winning it and I’ll keep trying every year.”
Jordan Macpherson, of Toronto, ON claimed the 2013 National Talent Squad Series Championship in front of a hometown crowd abord Aanwinst.
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However, Candele’s story wasn’t the only extraordinary one in this year’s Canadian Championships. Veteran show jumper Beth Underhill of Schomberg, ON was named the 2013 Canadian Show Jumping Reserve Champion aboard Viggo, her 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding. This was an amazing feat, considering just one year ago Viggo suffered an injury that was projected to end his career as a high performance mount. “(Viggo) had a full year off due to an injury, and I honestly didn’t think he’d be coming back to major competition whatsoever,” explained Underhill, who also racked up three clear rounds over the two phases (speed being the factor to give Candele the winning edge). Familiar faces in Canadian show jumping rounded out the top five in the 2013 Greenhawk Canadian Show Jumping Championships. Angela Covert of St. Lazare, QC took third with her long-time partner Utan, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding. She was followed by up-and-coming rider (and long-time student of “Captain Canada” Ian Millar) Jordan Macpherson from Toronto, ON in fourth place aboard Piccobello du Val de Geer, a 14-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare owned by JEM Stables Inc. Fifth place went to Isabelle Lapierre of Breakeyville, QC and her “small-butmighty” fan-favourite mare, Vicki Vale, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood owned by Ecuries de la Chaudiere.
Macpherson is Fierce in Talent Squad Championship Hometown girl, Jordan Macpherson’s top-five finish in the Canadian Championship proved to be only a starting point for her success at The Royal. Later in the week she went on to be crowned the 2013 National Talent Squad Series Champion, this time aboard Aanwinst, an eight-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare owned by JEM Stables Inc. Her clean sweep of the championship began with a win in the $8,000 Alfred Rogers National Talent Squad Series Championship — Phase I on Nov. 7, after achieving the fastest clear round in the against-the-clock format. On Nov. 10, the duo once again took first place after racking up two additional clear rounds in the $10,000 Alfred Rogers National Talent Squad Series Championship — Phase II. Macpherson followed a careful first round with a daring jump-off that had the crowd watching with bated breath.
“I thought it was a very good class,” Macpherson said after her speedy jump-off. “I thought Michel did a very good job on the course, and I thought the competitors were very strong today. I knew that it was going to be a very fast jump-off.” David Arcand of Mount Royal, QC finished as the 2013 National Talent Squad Reserve Champion after earning fourth place in Phase I, followed by a second place finish in Phase II with his eight-year-old Zangersheide mare, Cassis Z Ten Halven.
Equitation Riders Show Their Stuff in 25th Anniversary CET Medal Final In addition to acting as a show jumping mecca, The Royal Horse Show is also a platform for young riders to showcase their abilities in the equitation discipline. Riders from across the country travel to The Royal each year in order to compete in skill-testing finals. The jumper-based Running Fox CET Medal Final was celebrating its 25th anniversary at The Royal in 2013. Founder and long-time CET supporter Barbara Anderson was on-site to present Nora Gray of Owen Sound, ON with the top honours. Gray, who grew up in a riding family, including parents, Jennifer and Jim, and brother, Robert, smoothly executed all three phases of the CET Medal with her equine partner, Papa Douba Diob, an 11-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Karina Aziz. equinecanada November | December 2013 19
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Nora Gray of Owen Sound, ON emerged as the overall winner of the 2013 Running Fox CET Medal Final.
at the conclusion of the ceremony, she was asked if the evolution of the CET Medal falls in line with her intentions in creating it. She responded, “I think it’s all that and more because of the advancement of the riding in the last 25 years. And the riders are certainly far more sophisticated than they were 25 years ago.” Anderson attributes this fine-tuning of equitation skills to flatwork. “In my opinion, the class was won in the Flat/Gymnastic phase. The rider who could fulfil all of the requirements on the flat rose to the top, and today it was just filtering out the top four or five,” she explained. Congratulations to Anderson, Jump Canada, and The Royal Horse Show on fostering 25 years of equitation excellence. After an impressive second-place performance on Nov. 6 in the Flat/Gymnastic phase — which involved tests like turn on the haunches, turn on the forehand, counter canter, flying lead changes, single and double bounce combinations, and a four-part combination — Gray went into the following day’s Jumping phase on a score of 87. Her total score leaped up to 177 after she successfully navigated jumping tests like broken lines, a triple combination, and a triple bar to achieve the winning score of 90. As one of the four riders chosen to complete a final test, Gray locked down her overall win with an impressive ride over a shortened course requiring riders to jump from a trot, counter canter, and hand-gallop. “(After winning the Jumping phase) I was really confident going into the ride-off,” said Gray, who also attended the CET Medal Final last year, finishing in third place overall. “I had a great horse and I knew I could trust him,” she added. Second place went to Sarah Barker of Hamilton, ON, followed by Haley Stradley (who won the Flat/Gymnastic phase) from Aldergrove, BC in third. Rounding out the top four was Toronto’s Paige Mawson. As the winner, Gray was presented with a brand new Childeric saddle by long-time CET sponsor, Debra Smith of Running Fox. The company also provided Walsh halters to the top 16 entries. Jump Canada provided ribbons and medals for each phase. Following the awards ceremony, special honour was given to Anderson for her strong support of Canada’s equitation riders over the past 25 years. In an interview 20 www.equinecanada.ca
Alexandra Perry of Vancouver, BC won the 2013 Jump Canada Medal aboard Alezan 7.
Alexandra Perry Rises to the Top in Jump Canada Medal Final The Royal is also host to an annual hunter-based national equitation final, the Jump Canada Medal. This year’s winner was Alexandra Perry of Vancouver, BC. Perry worked hard for the title on Nov. 5, completing the traditional three phases, which started with a full jumping phase, followed by a flat phase, and capped off with a shortened jumping test for the top four riders. However, in a relatively rare occurrence, this year’s
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judges asked the top two riders to go one step further and complete a second jumping test, which saw Perry go head-to-head with Jessica Blum from Gormley, ON. The judges’ requests included jumping from a handgallop, halting, and trotting directly back to a line-up position. After an impressive performance that displayed a true hand-gallop, Perry was crowned national champion of the 2013 Jump Canada Medal Final. “(My horse) was better than expected and it felt really good,” Perry commented, giving due credit to Alezan, her 17-year-old Westphalian gelding who has been her partner for the past two years. “This has been my goal for a really long time, so I will try to figure out another bigger, better goal for next year.” Perry’s coach, Laura Balisky (a Canadian Show Jumping Team veteran who operates Thunderbird Show Park in Langley, BC with her husband Brent), was equally excited about the win, stating, “I thought Alexandra was awesome. She was really accurate and rode really well. I was very proud of her.” As the winner, Perry was presented with a gold medal, a Jump Canada jacket, a cooler, and the Leslie P. Usherwood Memorial Trophy during a ceremony led by Leslie’s daughter and granddaughter. Blum was awarded second place, followed by Savanna King of Calgary, AB in third, and Dannie Murphy of Charlottetown, PEI in fourth. For further information on the CET Medal and the Jump Canada Medal, including background information and details on annual qualifiers, regional finals, and the national final, visit www.equinecanada.ca/jumpcanada.
Fan Favourite Dressage Invitational Cup Returns to Royal The Royal Horse Show has continued to expand and diversify throughout its long history. Since the discipline of dressage was brought on board, it has continued to gain in popularity each year, attracting huge crowds to the Ricoh Coliseum. In fact, the “Dressage Freestyle Night” at The Royal has become so popular that it is often the first performance slot to sell out of tickets.
David Marcus of Campbellville, ON and his 2012 London Olympics mount Chrevi’s Capital won the Grand Prix phase of the $20,000 Royal Invitational Dressage Cup.
The 2013 $20,000 Royal Invitational Dressage Cup (generously sponsored by Deborah KinzingerMiculinic) was no exception to the popularity trend. Held as an Equine Canada Gold-level competition, the cup took place over two days on Nov. 6 and 7. The top four Canadians in the FEI world standings (as of Sept. 1, 2013) were invited to take part in Grand Prix and Grand Prix Freestyle classes. This year’s star-studded field of competitors was comprised of Jacqueline Brooks of Cedar Valley, ON, Diane Creech from Caistor Centre, ON, David Marcus from Campbellville, ON, and Evi Strasser from SteAdele, QC. Marcus started out strong, winning the Grand Prix class on Nov. 6 with a score of 70.00% aboard his 2012 London Olympics mount, Chrevi’s Capital, a 13-yearold Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by class sponsor, Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic. equinecanada November | December 2013 21
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Diane Creech from Caistor Centre, ON thrilled the Royal Horse Show crowd with a winning performance in the Grand Prix Freestyle during the $20,000 Royal Invitational Dressage Cup abord Devon L.
to do what they do at home and to bring it out and show it in an environment like this. So, he’s getting to that point,” continued Creech, explaining that her next goal with Devon L is to compete at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Florida this winter in order to earn the qualification marks necessary to be considered as a team member for the 2014 World Equestrian Games in France. Marcus and Chrevi’s Capital scored 72.917% for their upbeat performance, set to a medley of George Michael and Wham! hits, and choreographed by noted freestyle designer Joost Peters of the Netherlands.
“I think overall, (Chrevi’s Capital) just did a very nice, clean, conservative test, which was my goal for today. It’s his second-ever indoor show. The first one was here last year, and he was a bit nervous, so I just wanted him to get really confident, which I think he did,” said Marcus. Second place was awarded to 2007 Pan American Games Team Silver Medalist, Creech. Riding her longtime partner, Devon L, a 13-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Doug and Louise Leatherdale, she was awarded a score of 67.801%. Strasser, a 10-time Canadian Dressage League World Cup Finalist, took third on a score of 63.901% with her 13-year-old Oldenburg gelding, Action Tyme. Two-time Olympian, Brooks, was close on Strasser’s heels, scoring 63.901% for fourth place, paired with D Niro, a 14-yearold Swedish Warmblood gelding owned by Mary Brooks of Brookhaven Dressage Inc. In the Dressage Freestyle class, Creech secured the win with top marks (75.417%) from the judges, treating the enthusiastic crowd to an intense routine set to dramatic music from the television show The Tudors. “(Devon) was a wonderful boy. We had lots of power, but he kept it really nice and rhythmic and it was a really good ride. He’s a really talented, talented horse,” said Creech, who has been Devon’s sole rider and trainer for the past 10 years. “It’s a pretty electric atmosphere, so I think that every horse starts getting a little bit worried. But, I was very happy with him and he felt very confident in there. I think he had just as much fun as I did.” “It’s great to be at The Royal. I love the crowd. It takes time for (dressage horses) to develop the confidence 22 www.equinecanada.ca
Brooks was next in the standings, claiming third place on a score of 72.042%. The crowd responded to her Canadian-themed music, which included popular hits like Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” and “Home for a Rest” by Spirit of the West. At the completion of her performance, Brooks’ trademark enthusiasm was on display, as she exuberantly gave credit to D Niro and thanked the crowd with waves and smiles. Strasser’s performance to a mix of well-known Genesis tunes was also a crowd-pleaser, and was awarded a score of 67.375% from the judges for fourth place. An awards ceremony was held at the completion of the Freestyle class. It included a special presentation to honour Marcus with the Nicoll Trophy — given annually to The Royal Horse Show competitor who is highestplaced on the FEI Dressage Longines Rankings List.
Waylon Roberts Dominates Indoor Eventing for Seventh Time Indoor eventing celebrated its eighth year at the 91st Royal Horse Show. This exciting, fast-paced event involves replicating the types of obstacles found on a cross-country course and modifying them for indoor competition. Traditional show jumping obstacles are also incorporated. Renowned course designer Captain Mark Phillips, who helped the British Eventing Team earn both Gold and Silver Olympic Medals, returned for the second year in a row to design and build a challenging track for the $20,000 Horseware Ireland Indoor Eventing series. He
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incorporated a mix of solid obstacles, show jumping fences, related distances, and options for inside turns, requiring riders to be both bold and careful. This year’s featured fences included a keyhole fashioned out of hedges, a solid wood fence carved into the likeness of a pig, a tabletop, a Normandy bank, and a corner jump. Indoor eventing was held in two rounds over opening weekend on Nov. 1 and 2. Both phases were time-based, with a knockdown of a show jumping fence resulting in four penalty seconds, and a refusal with dislodging of a fence adding six penalty seconds. No time was added for a first refusal without dislodging the fence; however a second refusal or the fall of horse or rider resulted in elimination. At the end of the two rounds, both times were added together, with the fastest overall time determining the winner. A total of 10 riders took to the ring. Eight of Canada’s best eventing riders were invited based on their recent results at national and international FEI events. They were joined by two decorated international riders, Oliver Townend and William Fox-Pitt of Great Britain. Townend’s career highlights include a Team Gold Medal from the 2007 European Eventing Championships, while Fox-Pitt is one of the world’s most famous eventing riders, and currently ranked number two on the 2013 FEI HSBC Eventing World Ranking List. However, it was the Canadians who came out on top once again this year. For an incredible, unbelievable seventh time, Waylon Roberts of Port Perry, ON was crowned the indoor eventing Champion. Riding Bill Owen , a nine-year-old Canadian Sport Horse gelding owned by his mother, Kelly Plitz, Roberts put in a speedy first round, but a costly rail adjusted his time to 69.24 seconds, which placed him third. Roberts returned the following night with the clear intention of winning. He took every inside turn and never let off the pace. Despite a heart-stopping moment at the pig jump, he incurred no penalties and finished on a straight time of 75.70 seconds to win the second round. This brought his two-round total to 144.94, proving the fastest of the field, and allowing him to maintain his domination as champion for the seventh time. “Every year I try to find the right horse for The Royal. This is the biggest factor to doing well in the class. The horse must be calm and reliable in new situations, careful, and brave. (Bill Owen) is a relatively inexperienced eventer, but his best attribute is that he wants to win. He
Waylon Roberts of Port Perry, ON was crowned the indoor eventing Champion, riding Bill Owen, a nine-year-old Canadian Sport Horse gelding.
really saved my skin this year at one of the obstacles,” said Roberts. “It is a real honour just to compete at The Royal and I feel very fortunate to have had the quality horses that have allowed for my successes,” said Roberts, who was the youngest member of Canada’s Silver Medalist Team at the 2007 Pan American Games. “Indoor eventing and regular eventing are like distant cousins; same last name but very different. Captain Phillips did a masterful job of getting the horses up and down the length of the arena, making for a more open feel.” Close behind Roberts with a two-round total of 146.20 seconds was 2011 Ontario Horse Trials Association (OHTA) Leading Lady Rider, Kendal Lehari of equinecanada November | December 2013 23
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2012 Olympian and 2011 Pan American Games Individual Gold Medalist, Jessica Phoenix of Uxbridge, ON.
Uxbridge, ON. Lehari earned the Reserve Champion title aboard Daily Edition , a 15-year-old Thoroughbred gelding owned by her mother, veteran eventing rider Gwendalyne Lehari. Finishing in third place overall with a two-round time of 149.81 was Waylon’s father and last year’s indoor eventing Reserve Champion, Canadian Olympian Ian Roberts. For the second year in a row, his mount was Faolan, a nine-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Kelly Plitz. Fourth place went to up-and-coming rider Lindsay Beer of Midhurst, ON riding El Paso , an 11-year-old Trakehner gelding owned by Penny Beer. Fox-Pitt rounded out the top five aboard his borrowed mount Autorytet, an 11-year-old Thoroughbred-cross gelding who is owned by Canadian Young Rider Dasha Ivandaeva. The $20,000 Horseware Ireland Indoor Eventing championship ceremony was attended by Horseware Ireland Commercial Manager for North America, Kelly Nicholls. 24 www.equinecanada.ca
It was followed by a tradition of the eventing evening at The Royal Horse Show, the presentation of the General Michael Gutowski award — given annually to the indoor eventing competitor who is the highest-placed Canadian on the FEI HSBC Eventing World Ranking List. This year’s recipient was 2012 Olympian and 2011 Pan American Games Individual Gold Medalist, Jessica Phoenix of Uxbridge, ON. The award is given in honour to the memory of Olympic eventing rider Gutowski, also known as “The Colonel,” who was an esteemed judge, trainer, and coach in Canada for many years. He was also renowned for introducing the classical European style of equitation to Canadian riders. For full results of The Royal Horse Show, and to gain access to On Demand video, visit www.royalfair.org. Complete information on all Jump Canada jumper and equitation series, championships, and finals can be found at www.equinecanada.ca/jumpcanada. Further details on Dressage Canada competitions are available at www.equinecanada.ca/dressage. Eventing-specific information can be found at www.equinecanada.ca/eventing.
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Awards: Equine Canada Aims Spotlight on Invaluable Contributions to Equestrian Sport
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t takes much more than sheer riding ability to make it to the top of equestrian sport. Owners, officials, and volunteers all play an invaluable part in helping Canada’s equestrian athletes succeed on the world stage. That’s why Equine Canada is thrilled to recognize outstanding individuals each year through awards programs.
Jump Canada ‘Volunteer of the Year’ — Margaret “Muffie” Guthrie
Awards for exceptional contributions to the disciplines of dressage and show jumping were presented during November’s Royal Horse Show in Toronto, ON. Equine Canada is pleased to introduce the 2013 recipients:
“I am so thrilled that Muffie is being recognized for her myriad contributions to our sport, and for her class and elegance in execution,” said Mark Samuel, Chair of the Jump Canada Hall of Fame.
Jump Canada ‘Official of the Year’ — Kim Morrison Kim Morrison of Calgary, AB was presented with the 2013 Jump Canada ‘Official of the Year’ Award on Nov. 2 during a special ceremony held as part of the Jump Canada Hall of Fame Reception on The Royal Horse Show grounds. Since retiring from a riding career that included top-15 Canadian World Cup rankings, and long-list status for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Morrison has dedicated herself to the role of officiating. Remarkably, she has gained credentials in not just one, but three different roles; Judge, Ground Jury, and Steward. Morrison holds FEI Level 4* credentials for show jumping and is a member of the FEI Jumper Official Committee. She has also been the President of the Ground Jury at Spruce Meadows since 2009. Her experiences as a show jumping official include being selected as a member of the Ground Jury at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, 2012 World Cup Final, and 2012 Olympics. She was also recently appointed to the Ground Jury for the 2014 World Equestrian Games coming up in Normandy, FRA.
Guthrie has spent her life completely immersed in the hunter and jumper disciplines, and is a vital part of her family’s farm, Knightwood Stables in Arkell, ON. But, her devotion to equestrian sport goes far beyond the family business. Her tireless volunteer efforts span from taking on sponsorship and fundraising initiatives for the Canadian Equestrian Team to getting the Canadian Hunter Derby series off the ground. She was even a huge contributor to the cause behind the reception she was honoured at, having donated time toward inductee relations management and promotion for the Jump Canada Hall of Fame. “I am excited, surprised, and honoured by being recognized by Jump Canada for my volunteer work,” explained Guthrie. “Being part of the Jump Canada Hall of Fame is important to me because of the love I have for the sport, and the history involved in jumping. Our history is important to share and value, as it will influence our future and the future success in jumping.”
Photos © Michelle C. Dunn
“It is an honour to receive this award, though winning an award was never my goal. I started judging because I wanted to give back to the sport. I do that by being the best judge I can be,” explained Morrison. “Show jumping has given me some amazing opportunities for which I am truly grateful. This award is another amazing opportunity. I am thankful and humbled by the recognition of my efforts by Jump Canada.”
Margaret “Muffie” Guthrie from Guelph, ON was also honoured during the Hall of Fame reception, being presented with the 2013 Jump Canada ‘Volunteer of the Year’ Award.
Kim Morrison and Jump Canada Chair John Taylor
“Muffie” Guthrie and Jump Canada Chair John Taylor
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Photos © Cealy Tetley
[Left to right] Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic, Vel Miculinic, and David Marcus aboard Chrevi’s Capital.
Jump Canada ‘Owner of the Year’ — The Ziegler Family Artisan Farms has become a household name in the equestrian community, thanks to the amazing generosity of the owners, Andy, Carlene, and Caitlin Ziegler. The Ziegler family have been incredible benefactors of the sport of show jumping in Canada by providing worldclass mounts to Canadian Show Jumping Team members. Due to their outstanding contributions in 2013, Jump Canada selected the Ziegler family as the ‘Owner of the Year’ award recipients for the second consecutive time, honouring them with a special presentation held on Nov. 6 during the evening performance of The Royal Horse Show. Artisan Farms’ horses were instrumental to the success of the Canadian Show Jumping Team at four Nations’ Cup competitions throughout the past year. Most notably, Victor produced two clear rounds under the guidance of Canadian Olympian Tiffany Foster in the $75,000 Nations Cup Qualifier in Wellington, FL last March, leading Canada to a second place finish. Additionally, in May of 2013, Artisan Farms acquired three new high performance mounts; Verdi III for Foster, and both Powerplay and Quelmec du Gery for 2008 Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze. “It is a great honour to be named the Jump Canada ‘Owner of the Year’ for the second time,” said Carlene Ziegler. “It is our pleasure to support Eric and Tiffany and to witness their successes for Team Artisan and Team Canada.”
Dressage Canada ‘Owner of the Year’ — Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic If you attended The Royal Horse Show, or watched it online, chances are you heard Deborah KinzingerMiculinic’s name at least once. Her strong support of dressage wasn’t hard to spot. 26 www.equinecanada.ca
[left to right] Jump Canada Chair John Taylor, Caitlin and Carlene Zeigler, and Karen Hendry-Ouellette, Manager of Sport - Jumping Department, Equine Canada.
Kinzinger-Miculinic was the sponsor of the $20,000 Royal Dressage Invitational Cup, and owner of one of the cup participants — Chrevi’s Capital, who was the Grand Prix winner and earned second place in the Grand Prix Freestyle under the guidance of David Marcus. So, it was easy to understand why she was presented with the Dressage Canada ‘Owner of the Year’ Award during a special ceremony on Nov. 7. However, this award was provided to Kinzinger-Miculinic for reasons that reach far beyond The Royal Horse Show. As a result of her commitment as an owner, Marcus was able to make his Olympic debut in London last year with Chrevi’s Capital. “My deepest gratitude goes to all of the friends and family who have been so supportive and to Dressage Canada for this wonderful award. Finally, to David Marcus and my horses, thank you for allowing me to be part of this incredible journey,” said Kinzinger-Miculinic. In addition to generously providing Marcus with the horsepower necessary to represent Canada in major games, Kinzinger-Miculinic has shown unwavering commitment to the development of the newly-formed Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP). This vital program, which provides financial assistance to Canadian dressage riders, came about after KinzingerMiculinic realized the true cost athletes are faced with when training, preparing, and qualifying to compete internationally for Canada. By spearheading this initiative, her passion for supporting and encouraging Canada’s depth of talented athletes will continue to help lead the Canadian Dressage Team in a positive direction for years to come. “By working hand-in-hand with others to support our riders, creating opportunities for them to reach their goals with new innovative programs, and by providing sustainable funding, Canadian dressage will be recognized as a leader in the sport,” stated KinzingerMiculinic.
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Official Rankings
(Rankings current as of date magazine was sent to press) Dressage - FEI World Individual Dressage Ranking - N° 155 - 30/11/2013 (includes validated results from 01/12/2012 to 30/11/2013) Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Previous 1 2 3 4 6 5 7 8 9 11
Eventing - HSBC Rankings - N° 83 – 30/11/2013 (includes validated results from 01/12/2012 to 30/11/2013)
Rider / Horse / Country DUJARDIN, Charlotte / Valegro / GBR LANGEHANENBERG, Helen / Damon Hill NRW / GER CORNELISSEN, Adelinde / Jerich Parzival / NED GAL, Edward / Glock’s Undercover / NED VILHELMSSON Silfven, Tinne / Don Auriello / SWE SPREHE, Kristina / Desperados FRH / GER WERTH, Isabell / Don Johnson FRH / GER KASPRZAK, Anna / Donnperignon / DEN KITTEL, Patrick / Watermill Scandic H.B.C. / SWE ZU SAYSN-WITTGENSTEIN, Natalie / Digby / DEN
Points 2915 2881 2740 2605 2413 2403 2329 2276 2180 2163
Rider / Horse MARCUS, David / Chrevi’s Capital BROOKS, Jacqueline / D Niro CREECH, Diane / Devon L FORTMULLER, Pia / Orion MARCUS, David / Don Kontes IRWIN, Jaimey / Lindor’s Finest HOLZER, Ashley / Jewel’s Adelante PAVICIC, Karen / Don Daiquiri MEISNER, Cheryl / Tango STRASSER, Evi / Action Tyme
Points 1691 1558 1532 1486 1455 1356 1342 1335 1324 1301
Top 10 Canadians Rank 47 75 83 95 105 131 138 145 150 157
Previous 46 78 83 99 105 130 137 145 150 157
Previous 1 3 2 6 7 5 4 8 8 10 Previous 323 326 390 442 685 751 803 831 851 893
Rider / Country NICHOLSON, Andrew / NZL FOX-PITT, William / GBR DAVIDSON JR., Bruce O. / USA JUNG, Michael / GER KLIMKE, Ingrid / GER ROSE, Shane / AUS JOHNSON, Sonja / AUS RICHARDS, Jonelle / NZL PAGET, Jonathan / NZL TINNEY, Stuart / AUS
Points 634 621 419 384 378 371 364 359 357 352
Rider / Country ARNOLD, Sabrina / GER ATGER Virginie / FRA AL MARRI, Abdulla Ghanim / UAE Al HARBI, Saeed Ahmad Jaber / UAE KART, Kamila / POL MOSTI, Laurent / FRA VAN DEUSEN, Cheryl / USA HAGMAN-ERIKSSON, Maria / SWE THEOLISSAT, Melody / FRA TOMAS, Philippe / FRA
Rank 39 47 67 81 157 223 313 388 402 404
Previous 39 49 67 77 158 227 312 384 397 540
Rider PHOENIX, Jessica HOWARD, Rebecca O’HANLON, Selena BENNETT-AWAD, Hawley LOACH, Colleen CARTER, Kyle FERGUSSON, Lisa Marie MCDONALD, Jordan ROBERTS, Waylon ATKINSON, James
Points 250 232 203 178 116 87 66 55 53 53
Jumping − Longines Rankings - N° 155 - 30/11/2013 (includes validated results from 01/12/2012 to 30/11/2013) Points 1125 1037 1023 904 839 837 834 754 754 753
Top 10 Canadians Rank 360 363 430 488 747 814 866 895 915 965
Previous 1 2 4 3 5 30 27 6 7 26
Top 10 Canadians
Endurance - Open Riders World Endurance Ranking - N° 10 - 31/10/2013 (includes validated results from 01/01/2013 to 30/11/2013) Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8 10
Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Previous 6 1 7 2 3 9 5 11 4 8
Rider / Country BRASH, Scott / GBR MAHER, Ben / GBR BEERBAUM, Ludger / GER MADDEN, Elizabeth / USA EHNING, Marcus / GER GUERDAT, Steve / SUI AHLMANN, Christian / GER DELAVEAU, Patrice / FRA DINIZ, Luciana / POR SCHRODER, Gerco / NED
Points 2627 2590 2495 2451 2450 2408 2345 2325 2320 2285
Rider LAMAZE, Eric MILLAR, Ian FOSTER, Tiffany VINCE, Ainsley CUDMORE, Karen CONE, Mac HENSELWOOD, Jill COVERT, Angela ASSELIN, Ben ASSELIN, Jonathan
Points 1410 1360 975 635 395 340 336 315 285 280
Top 10 Canadians Rider MACLEOD, Tara MACCOUBREY, Wendy MILLER, Dessia VINTON, Yvette IRVINE, Kathy MANNESS, Jessica LAVALLEE, Angela WOOLLEY, Kimberley HARPER, Claudia O’BRENNAN, Terre
Points 195 194 179 166 120 114 110 108 107 102
Rank 51 59 94 160 261 296 301 318 344 349
Previous 53 63 92 185 289 283 255 318 325 350
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Photo © Zoltán Andrássy
Photo © Shannon Brinkman
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Photo © Shannon Brinkman
Making Her Mark: PIA FORTMULLER Helping to Put Canada on the Map in International Dressage Competition BY RACHEL HUEBERT Pia Fortmuller of Priddis, AB has been the sole Canadian dressage athlete competing at the elite level (CDI4* and 5*) in Europe over the last year. Paired with her 17-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Orion, she recently attended the CDI3* Zakrzow competition, held in Poland from Nov. 8–10. She won the Grand Prix before moving on to take second in the Grand Prix Freestyle. And this was just one of her many accomplishments over the past year. In September, Fortmuller and Orion travelled to the prestigious Vienna Masters CDI4* in Austria, where they earned top 10 finishes in the Grand Prix and Grand Prix Freestyle against an elite field of top international competitors.
Exclusive Invite Additionally, Fortmuller had a dream come true when she was invited to compete at the CDIO level during the World Equestrian Festival CHIO Aachen in Germany this past July. Once again paired with Orion, she received ninth place in the CDI4* Grand Prix Freestyle class against some of the best dressage riders in the world. “It was an honour to be able to dance down the centerline with Orion in Aachen. It is such a magical competition because you really have to earn your invitation to be able to ride there,” Fortmuller commented about the experience. Fortmuller’s recent competition history also includes representing Canada at international dressage competitions in North and South America, Europe, and Australia. Plus, she was named an alternate rider for the Canadian Dressage Team at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. 28 www.equinecanada.ca
Lifelong Love Establishing a high performance dressage career has been a lifelong journey for Fortmuller. She began riding as a child and inherited her love of horses and dressage from her mother, Dagmar Fortmuller, whom she describes as a “passionate horsewoman.” Her early equestrian education exposed her to many disciplines and riding styles, including overnight trail rides, cattle drives, hunter, endurance, eventing, and of course, dressage. On her 10th birthday, Fortmuller’s gift from her mother was a homebred Canadian Sport Horse mare, Riish. The mother-daughter team embarked on Riish’s training together, and it was this experience that sparked Fortmuller’s passion and dedication to dressage.
Movin’ On Up At the age of 11, Fortmuller stepped up her dressage training by taking regular clinics with Albrecht Heidemann (personal coach of several dressage team members at the 2013 North American Junior Young Rider Championships). Fortmuller has stated that it was during these clinics that her “personal ambition for high performance dressage was ignited.” In 2003, after high school, Fortmuller and Donagna (another horse produced by her mother’s breeding program) traveled to Germany to train for a year at Gestüt Tasdorf. She credits this year of training with teaching her many of the fundamentals and “cornerstones” of the sport of dressage. Upon returning to Canada, she began training with Canadian Olympian Leslie Reid. And, it was during this time that she was first introduced to Orion, who was Reid’s partner for the 2008 Olympic Games. Under Reid’s guidance, Fortmuller competed successfully at the FEI Junior and Young Rider levels. She was the Canadian Young Rider Champion in 2005, and won Team and Individual Gold Medals at the 2006 North American Junior Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC). In addition to training and competing, she attended Simon Fraser University, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. In 2008, she earned certification as an Equine Canada Level 1 English Coach.
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“Hallo” Germany! In 2009, Fortmuller decided to return to Germany and stay long-term, training under German Olympic rider Heike Kemmer. A year later, she purchased Orion from Reid. Orion remains Fortmuller’s current Grand Prix horse and is affectionately referred to as her “shining star.” In fact, Fortmuller’s appreciation for her horses plays a huge role in her success. She is grateful to each mount for teaching her valuable lessons as a rider and horsewoman. She begins every day between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. with the daily care and training routine, and rides between five and seven horses per day. She has even been known to sleep on the show grounds at competitions to be near her horses. “I always sleep in my lorry so that I’m close to my horses. Even last year at the World Cup competitions, the show organizers often pay for the hotel rooms (for riders), but it really calms my nerves when I know I can check on Orion at any time,” she explained.
her 11-year-old Rheinlander mare that she refers to as her “precious pearl.” They have been successful at CDI3* competitions in Prix St Georges, as well as the short Grand Prix at the national level. In 2014, she aims to move Fabella B up to the FEI Grand Prix level.
Working Toward WEG The dressage world should expect to see plenty more of Fortmuller. She continues to train with Kemmer, and recently added regular sessions with former German Team Coach, Jonny Hilberath into her schedule. As for the immediate future, she is working toward representing Canada at the 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Normandy, FRA. If you are interested in following Fortmuller’s European experiences, be sure to subscribe to her blog at http:// piavirginia.blogspot.ca and keep an eye on Equine Canada’s news feed at www.equinecanada.ca.
In addition to Orion, Fortmuller is currently competing with several up-and-coming horses, including Fabella B, Dressage Canada has once again published its much-awaited annual calendar featuring photos of our Canadian High Performance athletes, and highlighting the medalists from the 2013 North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. This must-have calendar for dressage enthusiasts can be yours for just $15. All proceeds go directly toward supporting Dressage Canada’s Youth and Senior High Performance Athletes. Dressage Canada 2014 Calendar Order Form (all prices are in Canadian dollars and include taxes and shipping) Unit Price $15
Quantity:
Total:
Payment Information Name: ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Address: .............................................................................................. City: .............................................. Prov: ................ Postal Code ....................................... Tel: ............................................................................ Fax: ............................................................................ E-mail: ............................................................................ I enclose payment in the form of: q Cheque (Payable to Equine Canada) q Visa q Mastercard Credit Card #: ...................................................................................................................... Exp. Date (DD/MM/YEAR): ............................................................. Name on Card: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Return to: Manager Dressage | Equine Canada | 308 Legget Drive, Kanata, ON K2K 1Y6 | Fax: 613-287-1515 | cpeters@equinecanada.ca
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Attention Canadian High Performance Dressage Athletes Planning to Enter CDI Competitions As 2013 comes to a close, there are a number of updates Dressage Canada would like to bring to your attention regarding the following processes for 2014: • License Fees • Permission to Compete Policy Amendments • FEI Online Entry System for CDI Competitions • Permission to Compete Online Web Portal • FEI Passport Expiration & Revalidation Process • USEF International High Performance Fee Exemption
2014 License Fees Prior to competing in any 2014 competitions, you must present proof of having paid the following fees: • 2014 Equine Canada Sport License (athlete and owner of horse) • 2014 Equine Canada Horse License • 2014 Provincial Equestrian Association Membership (athlete and owner of horse), for athletes with addresses in Canada • 2014 FEI Registration — for both athletes and horses, if applicable (required for CDI athletes and horses only)
Permission to Compete Policy Amendments The Dressage Canada High Performance Committee has made some minor amendments to the Permission to Compete Policy for 2014. The current policy can be found at the following website link — http://bit.ly/15fn2F1 or by scanning the following QR code with a smartphone:
The most important amendment to the policy for 2014 is outlined below: Automatic Exemption: Riders who are either: • listed on the current Dressage Canada High Performance Short and Long List (available at http://bit.ly/1c2poK0); and/or • have previously represented the Canadian Equestrian Team (CET) at Olympics, World Equestrian Games, Pan American Games, or a World Cup Final who wish to enter national or international CDI competitions (FEI Sanctioned Competitions) with a horse who hasn’t competed at the FEI level previously are automatically exempted from the requirement to achieve minimum threshold scores before advancing to the CDI level. However, if the horse/rider combination fails to achieve a score equivalent to the minimum threshold score after two CDI competitions, the exemption will be terminated. The horse/rider will then be required to achieve the minimum threshold scores before permission to compete at the CDI level is reinstated. Additionally, in 2014 it will become even more important to submit Permission to Compete forms to the Equine Canada dressage department before the definite entry date outlined in the draft schedule of the CDI competition for which you plan to enter. This requirement has become very important due to new FEI Online Entry Requirements introduced for CDI competitions. More information on the new FEI Entry System is outlined below.
FEI Online Entry System for CDI Competitions The FEI has instituted a new online system for entries into FEI competitions (CDI level), which will start for dressage in January 2014. The FEI Online Entry System will allow EC to input rider and horse information directly into a competition’s file. The competition organizer can then select and ‘accept’ the rider and horse entries that are approved.
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This new system requires Equine Canada to provide all Canadian athlete and horse information for each FEI (CDI) competition in which the athlete/horse combination plans to compete. This is required for all levels of FEI (CDI) sanctioned classes. Please note: this process does not replace the competition entry form and payment that athletes still need to submit directly to the competition. The FEI Entry process will become part of the Permission to Compete/FEI Registration process already in place. As the system requirements evolve, so will Dressage Canada’s procedures and policies; an administration fee may be introduced in the future.
Permission to Compete Online Web Portal In order to assist with this transition, the Equine Canada dressage department has spearheaded the development of an online portal for 2014 Permission to Compete/FEI Registration & Entry submissions, which will be available to Equine Canada platinum sport license holders as of Dec. 6, 2013. To access the portal you will be required to log in with your Equine Canada member number and password: http://bit.ly/18hq9fu
in time for submission into the FEI Entry System by the definite entry date in accordance with the FEI General Regulations, will risk having their entries denied by the competition organizing committee. If you experience any problems with this new system, please contact Rachel Huebert of the Equine Canada dressage department directly by e-mailing rhuebert@ equinecanada.ca, or calling 1-866-282-8395 x 142.
FEI PASSPORTS — Expiry Dates and 2014 Horse Licenses Please note, for 2014 there has been a significant change to the horse license renewal process for FEI passports. The expiration date of the passport has now been entered into the horse file for all FEI passports. You will be able to view your horses’ FEI passport expiry date and passport status when you renew (i.e. Active in Sport / Passport Expired / Pending). In order for an FEI passport to be valid for competition, at any level, the passport must not be expired. If your passport has expired, the 2014 horse license sticker will not be available until the passport has been revalidated. For further information on the revalidation process, check the Equine Canada website: http://bit.ly/1c6YVcF
NOTE — It is your responsibility as an athlete to be aware of all competition definite entry deadlines as outlined in the schedule for each competition.
Alternatively, if you do not wish to revalidate your horse’s FEI passport, you may cancel the FEI passport and then be eligible to apply for an Equine Canada passport.
You must complete and submit, in full, your Permission to Compete / FEI Registration & Entry information to the Equine Canada Dressage Department via the online portal before the competition definite entry deadline for each competition you wish to enter.
If you have had an FEI passport revalidated in another country, please forward the particulars (including a copy or scan of the revalidation sticker) to Equine Canada, FEI Passport Department and we will update the file accordingly. (Continued on following page)
Athletes and horses whose information is not provided to the Equine Canada Dressage Department
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For assistance with FEI Passport matters, please contact: Wendy Gayfer Program Coordinator, Non-Olympic FEI Disciplines/ Breed Sports/FEI Passports | wgayfer@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515 ext. 125 Jamie-Ann Goodfellow Program Coordinator, Para-Equestrian/ FEI Passports | jgoodfellow@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515 ext. 143 Rachel Huebert Program Coordinator, Dressage/FEI Passports | rhuebert@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515 ext. 142 Crystal Labelle Program Coordinator, Eventing/FEI Passports | clabelle@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515 ext. 109
For assistance with Equine Canada Sport Licenses and Passports, please contact: Tracy Flynn Sport Licence / Equine Canada Passport Administrator | tflynn@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515/1-866-282-8395 x 114 Christine Rowland Sport Licence / Equine Canada Passport Administrator | crowland@equinecanada.ca | 613-287-1515/1-866-282-8395 x 106
USEF International High Performance Fee Exemption As part of a reciprocal agreement, Canadian athletes participating in USEF competitions who are subject to the USEF International High Performance (IHP) fee (USEF GR 207), may be granted fee exemption by submitting an application (for each horse) to USEF. The form can be downloaded at: http://bit.ly/1brsmeu.
Holzer and MacDonald Provide Invaluable Insight During 2013 National Dressage Symposium BY ALISON BREBNER, EQUINE CANADA CERTIFIED COACH The 2013 National Dressage Symposium, held Nov. 15 at Thunderbird Show Park in Langley, BC and Nov. 17 at Pine Ridge Farm in King City, ON, provided dressage coaches, riders, officials, and enthusiasts with invaluable insight and advice from world-class professionals. Three-time Olympian Ashley Holzer and FEI 4* Dressage Judge Lorraine MacDonald led the symposium, which focused on teaching riders how to improve test scores, and provided clarification on what judges look for at the FEI level. Each day began with FEI Children and FEI Pony test demonstrations, which were well executed by riders despite the intimidating environment. During the riders’ warm up and test, MacDonald provided auditors with a detailed breakdown of scoring, as well as insightful commentary from a judge’s perspective. Following the tests, Holzer shared her thoughts on training; based on MacDonald’s scores and comments, and worked with the riders to improve their specific weaknesses. The main focus throughout the rides was the improvement of suppleness and balance in order to heighten connection and achieve the elusive 8 and 9 scores that all dressage riders strive for. MacDonald’s comments were consistent and fair. She clearly and concisely went through her scoring for each movement, constantly referring back to FEI criteria and directives to justify each specific score. Therefore, the audience was able to see exactly how the execution of the movements within the tests was linked to the collective marks. As the day continued and the FEI Prix St. Georges and Grand Prix horses came in, the common thread of improving balance and suppleness continued. It was during this time that the true extent of Holzer’s expertise in developing horses and riders for the FEI ring became apparent. Holzer’s ability to analyze the mechanics of how a horse moves, identify his or her weaknesses, and develop exercises to help improve strength, balance and
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The exercises that Holzer employed were well thought out and designed to develop the horse as an athlete, while instilling confidence at the same time. This approach encouraged the horse to understand how to use his or her body in a more brilliant and expressive way. And, while she was firm in having lofty expectations for horse and rider, she was quick to point out how vital it is to go slowly, building on moments of brilliance each week. Holzer also hammered home the importance of rewarding horses, and kept a box of sugar cubes close at hand. Throughout the symposium, both MacDonald and Holzer answered questions from auditors, complete with analogies based on their years of experience. Comments from the audience included: “A fabulous clinic, extremely educational” and, “I loved how horse-focused Ashley was.”
Photo © Cealy Tetley
confidence displayed that she is not only a world-class trainer and competitor, but also a true horsewoman.
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Ashley Holzer and Pop Art
During the breaks between riding demonstrations, MacDonald and Holzer were also candid in sharing stories from their careers. Perhaps the most notable was Holzer speaking of encountering an issue in the one tempis with her former Olympic mount, Pop Art. She spoke of calling MacDonald for input, reminding the group just how important it is to ask for help and take every opportunity for training, regardless of what level you ride at. I would like to extend a special thank you to MacDonald, Holzer, Equine Canada, Dressage Canada, and the demonstration horses and riders for making the symposium a huge success.
Dressage Canada Announces New and Promoted Officials for 2014 Dressage Canada and Equine Canada are pleased to announce the following list of recently certified and promoted dressage officials for the 2014 competition season. Name Joyce Cameron Justin Ridgewell Claude Diotte Marianne Fizet Sarah Hill Kristen Skinner-Boyd Marie Helen Lessard Margaret Boyce John MacPherson Brigit Valkenborg Joanne Bouwhuis Mary-Joe Figueira Kathleen Tindale Susan Foell Anne Welch
Home Town Judges Collingwood, ON Collingwood, ON Ste-Marthe, QC Burritts Rapids, ON Bolton, ON Windsor, ON Amaranth, ON Emmerson, NJ Stouffville, ON Ste-Marthe, QC Oshawa, ON Stewards Milton, ON Sutton, ON Sharon, ON King City, ON
Status Recorded Recorded Basic Basic Basic Basic Basic Medium Senior Senior Senior Basic Basic Medium Senior
Anyone interested in obtaining credentials as an official with Dressage Canada can view the rules, eligibility requirements, applications and clinic dates at www.equinecanada.ca/dressage. equinecanada November | December 2013 33
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Canadian Olympic duo Hawley Bennett-Awad and Gin & Juice placed 16th overall at Les Étoile de Pau CCI4* held in France Oct. 23-27, 2013. Photo © LibbyLawPhotography.com
2014 Canadian National Eventing Team Approved by the High Performance Committee on Nov. 27, 2013 — Reflects Results Jan. 1, 2013–Nov. 4, 2013
SHORT LIST The 2014 Canadian National Eventing Team Short List is comprised of horse/rider combinations who have proven through results at CCI/CCIO/CH 3* and 4* competitions (within the time period designated under general regulations), that they are successfully representing Canada in international competition as individuals and/or team members. The athletes are listed in alphabetical order:
Rider Peter Barry Hawley Bennett-Awad Kyle Carter Rebecca Howard Kendal Lehari
Hometown Dunham, QC Langley, BC Sparr, FL Marlborough, GBR Uxbridge, ON
Selena O’Hanlon
Kingston, ON
Rachel McDonough
Etobicoke, ON
Jessica Phoenix
Cannington, ON
Shandiss McDonald Kathryn Robinson
Oakville, ON Kettering, GBR
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Horse Kilrodan Abbott Gin & Juice Madison Park Riddle Master Daily Edition Foxwood High Bellaney Rock Irish Rhythm Exponential Erodium Pavarotti Rockfield Grant Juan Let It Bee
Owner Peter, Susan, and Dylan Barry Hawley Bennett-Awad and Linda Paine Kyle and Jennifer Carter Blithe Hill Farm Kendal Lehari John Rumble Selena O’Hanlon and Eventing Canada Rachel McDonough Jessica and Joel Phoenix Kirk Hoppner Don J. Good Jorge Bernhard Kathryn Robinson
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LONG LIST The 2013 Canadian Eventing Team Long List is comprised of horse/rider combinations who have proven through results at CCI/CH/CCIO 2* and/or CIC 3* competitions (within the time period designated under general regulations) that they have the potential to become short listed team members. The athletes are listed in alphabetical order:
Rider Lindsay Beer Kyle Carter
Hometown Midhurst, ON Sparr, FL
Lisa Marie Fergusson
Langley, BC
Kiyomi Foster Micheline Jordan Lesley Grant-Law Colleen Loach Tik Maynard Jordan McDonald Sean McIntosh Selena O’Hanlon
Surrey, BC Ocala, FL Ocala, FL Dunham, QC Branchburg, NJ Oakville, ON LaSalle, ON Kingston, ON
Jessica Phoenix
Cannington, ON
Ian Roberts Waylon Roberts Lindsay Traisnel (Pearce) Michael Winter
Port Perry, ON Port Perry, ON Tecumseh, ON Cirencester, GBR
Horse El Paso FR’s Trust Fund Feral Errol Honor Me Tasman Sea Irish Diamonds What Law Freespirit Sapphire Prince Mayo Wild T Mater A First Romance Patras VR Abbey GS A Little Romance Faolan Esprit de la Danse Candar van het Neerveld Lucullus
Owner Penny Beer Kyle, Jennifer, and Riley Carter Gina Fiore Lisa Marie Fergusson Kiyomi Foster Micheline Jordan Lesley Grant-Law Peter Barry Richard Maynard Jorge Bernhard Robert McIntosh Selena and Morag O’Hanlon Kirk Hoppner Charlotte Schickedanz Donald Leschied Kelly Plitz Ruth Bley Patricia Pearce Alison Parsons
*Clarification — Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) result recognized as of Jan. 1, 2013: zero cross country jumping penalties.
Photo © StockImageServices.com
Colleen Loach and Freespirit took third place in the CCI2* at the Dutta Corporation Fair Hill International, held Oct. 16-20 in Elkton, MD.
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News from the Recreation Department PROGRESS OF EXCITING NEW TRAIL RIDING PROGRAM guidebook, Équitation de plein air, Manuel de référence, authored by Lapointe. The guide has been closely reviewed by experts in the recreation field, and features useful reference material and information to help the general public gain the basic knowledge needed to safely practice trail riding.
Photo © Pascal Ratthé
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quine Canada is pleased to provide an updated progress report on the launch of a new national trail riding and tourism program.
The program is the result of an agreement Equine Canada signed with the Québec à Cheval organization in January of 2013. This agreement gives Equine Canada the opportunity to adapt the existing Québec à Cheval Trail Riding certification and equine tourism program in order to roll it out on a national scale. Since entering this agreement, EC hired recreation expert Audrey Lapointe to head up the internal Recreation, Trails, and Tourism division. Lapointe has an extensive background as a recreational rider and endurance competitor, and previously worked with EC as an equestrian tourism consultant before being brought on board full-time. To update Canadian equine enthusiasts on the shortand long-term plans for the Trail Riding Certification and Tourism Program, here is an account of Lapointe’s current developments and projections.
Recreational Training Manual EC will launch the sale of a comprehensive trail riding guide during the 2014 Equine Canada Annual Convention, set for Feb. 5–9 in Winnipeg, MB. Titled, A Guide to Basic Horsemanship and Trail Riding in Canada, the publication is an English translation of the French 36 www.equinecanada.ca
In addition to general public use, the guide will serve as the official reference material for a new trail riding training program to be implemented by EC.
Trail Riding Training Program The trail riding training program has been designed to help recreational riders gain the necessary skills and knowledge to safely enjoy trail riding. It can also be used as a tool for self-evaluation in the field of trail riding. Covered topics include stable management, basic emergency first aid, farriery, topography, outdoor risk management, and much more. Plus, training program participants have the option to obtain certification as a Trail Rider, Trail Riding Guide, or another specialized area of outdoor riding. The curriculum is designed to be easily adaptable to the training needs of individual participants. Training plans will be available online in the near future, and will include full details of all certification levels, as well as the evaluation system to be used.
Program Implementation EC is currently working with the provincial equestrian associations to spearhead national implementation of the Trail Riding Training Program. A strategy is being created to develop a plan for the selection of the first set of program instructors, who will also act as “champions” representing recreational riding and tourism in Canada. Once this process is nailed down, host sites for instructor assessment workshops will be determined.
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Program Timelines Here are the projected timelines for the implementation of the Trail Riding Training Program: February March April May June July August
Launch of A Guide to Basic Horsemanship and Trail Riding in Canada. Instructor’s Guide Book and training plans available. Online launch of the training plans and learning material. Provincial selection of first wave of instructor/champion candidates. Initial screening of instructor candidates and preparation for certification evaluation. Instructor evaluation and certification will take place in Eastern Canada. Instructor evaluation and certification will take place in Central Canada. Instructor evaluation and certification will take place in Western Canada. Provincial/territorial equestrian associations to provide follow-up support and workshop planning to certified instructors.
For further information, or to inquire about becoming one of Canada’s first Certified Trail Riding Instructors and championing recreational riding nationally, contact your provincial equestrian association. A list of associations
(including contact info) is available on the National/ Provincial Structure page, found in the ‘About’ section of www.equinecanada.ca.
Photo © Pascal Ratthé
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| HEALTH & WELFARE |
EHV-1 THE
PART II
THREAT
What Canada (Can) Should Do to Minimize the Risk BY KAREN ROBINSON
This article originally appeared in the July 2013 issue of Horse Sport. It is being reprinted with permission.
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quine herpesvirus 1 is a disease fraught with unknowns and unpredictability, but there is one aspect that is certain: it has been endemic in horse populations world wide for far longer than humans have been studying it, and eradication is not an option. Given that one fact, there is only one correct response to the threat of EHV-1. From the national federation to the owner of a child’s pony, everyone in the horse industry must take personal responsibility: to do their part to minimize the possibility of an outbreak, and to take the appropriate steps when an outbreak inevitably happens. No one wants to think about this virus with the ugly name, especially the terrifying mutant strain that causes neurological disease with a high mortality rate. But the first step toward playing a positive role will require widespread education and action.
DANGEROUS MUTATION Researchers have learned that there are multiple strains of the EHV-1 virus. The type for which a vaccine currently exists is now generally known as the ‘wild strain’. It’s the strain of EHV-1 whose most serious consequence is usually abortion, which is the primary
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purpose for the ‘rhino’ vaccinations that are routine for horse owners. In 2001, following two EHV-1 outbreaks in North America whose characteristics raised red flags in the veterinarian community, a previously unknown mutation of EHV-1 was identified. A disease that had been quietly in the background for generations was suddenly front and centre. Dr. Peter Timoney of the Gluck Research Center at the University of Kentucky is considered one of the world’s foremost experts on infectious diseases in horses. The new strain, he says, has only a single point mutation, but it’s a mutation that has a powerful impact. “The mutation is directly involved in virus replication,” he explains. “It is more contagious.” The mutated strain has a much higher level of viremia – presence in the blood. It reaches a peak more quickly and lasts longer during that period, which means that an infected horse is shedding more virus for longer, making it more contagious. Additionally, this strain has a much higher clinical attack rate than the wild strain, and a mortality rate that Dr. Timoney says may be as high as 40%. “In outbreaks associated with a high clinical attack rate and neurological disease, 75% of those were associated with the strain with that single point mutation, which controls replication.” Research continues in the search for a vaccine that would protect horses against this strain of EHV-1, and Dr. Timoney is optimistic that one will be found. “I think we have the capability to develop an effective
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vaccine,” he says. In the meantime, horse owners should continue routine vaccinations with the vaccine that currently exists. While that vaccine doesn’t protect horses against the neurological strain or against the wild strain turning neurological (which does occur), there is what Dr. Timoney describes as “a degree of relative protection.” Research conducted by his late colleague at the Gluck Research Center, Dr. George Allen, concluded that horses which were vaccinated using the current vaccine and later exposed to the mutant strain were less likely to develop neurological symptoms. “Horses that are vaccinated also have a shorter shedding period of the virus, during which less virus will be shed,” he explains. It’s not protection, it’s mitigation; but there is sufficient value to reducing the contagiousness that vaccination continues to be recommended, except in the instance of an outbreak. “There may be some adverse affects to a population that has been exposed to an outbreak of EHV-1,” says Timoney. “I would not vaccinate in the face of an outbreak.”
GOVERNMENT’S LIMITED REACH EHV-1 is only one of a number of potentially fatal infectious diseases in horses, so the rationale behind adopting good management practices with one’s own horses is neither new, nor temporary. But EHV-1 brings its own set of complexities, including the fact that it is not a reportable disease with federal government agencies in Canada or the US. “It’s an endemic disease so it will never be reportable,” says Dr. Mary Bell, an equine practitioner and FEI vet who has been the co-chair of Equine Canada’s combined Health and Welfare Committee since 2008. Previous to that, she was chair of the EC Equine Health Committee and Medication Committee. Bell says that for the past 11 years she has been part of an effort to get the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to designate EHV-1 as immediately notifiable, which would mean laboratories conducting EHV-1 tests must immediately notify the CFIA. “We are never going to have any federal governmental regulatory system for an endemic disease,” she says. “But if it were possible to have a monitoring system similar to what they’ve had
with Equine Infectious Anaemia, there would at least be information provided as to the presence of disease and where it was present.” Enter the provinces. There is currently no standard protocol for EHV-1 from province to province, but progress is being made. Ontario’s ministry for agriculture, food and rural affairs, known as OMAFRA, has been a leader with respect to EHV-1. In Ontario, the neurological strain of the disease is immediately notifiable. Alberta is the only other province in which EHV-1 is an immediately notifiable disease, but Bell says other provinces are working on changes. In BC the disease is not notifiable, but it’s on a proposed list. Because the Ontario government has the authority to identify cases of EHV-1, the first step toward controlling an outbreak is greatly aided through communication, unhindered by the Privacy Act. “This isn’t a matter of superseding privacy,” says Dr. Greg Douglas, director of OMAFRA’s Animal Health and Welfare Branch. “It’s a matter of doing what’s in the best interest of all concerned.” There is considerable anxiety surrounding the disclosure of whose horse is sick, but the owner of a horse that has been identified as infected with EHV-1 is not identified by name. “We take the privacy of individuals very seriously,” says Dr. Douglas. “Public disclosure of names is not necessary to control the disease.”
I would like to see a bio-security system where we have hand sanitizers and the capacity to establish boot baths in the face of infection at horse shows.
— Dr. Mary Bell, Co-chair of the Equine Canada Health and Welfare Committee
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| HEALTH & WELFARE |
EC’S ROLE In the absence of governmental power to enforce such measures as biosecurity or quarantine, EC’s participation in education and communication becomes even more important in the case of EHV-1. An EC manual for horse show organizers, called an ‘Emergency Preparedness Guide’, is in the works and scheduled for completion in 2014. Bio-security will be an important component of the plan. It will specify the necessary measures to be used in various scenarios. Multiple committees will be involved in the creation of the plan, including Health and Welfare, Competitions, Industry, and Coaching and Medications. Additional input is being requested from the FEI and the Canadian Animal Health Coalition. EC also plans to cover the assessment of possible contamination of stalls, tack, equipment and trailers in the guide, with implementation at horse shows scheduled for May 2014. In the meantime, EC is looking into the potential of implementing a Crisis Management Certification program in order to provide horse show organizers and officials with the necessary training prior to April 2014. A modified manual for horse and farm owners is expected to be ready by the end of 2013. EC plans to work closely with the provincial equestrian associations to organize distribution of the manual and identify how the training will be handled. The idea of creating a mobile phone application to help ensure cost efficiency and practicality is also being considered. Successful prevention or containment of EHV-1 outbreaks falls under the umbrella of traceability, which is comprised of three components: horse identification, premise identification and movement. EC’s CanEQUID program already addresses many of the issues surrounding traceability. And while there is shared responsibility between EC and its member provincial associations, EC believes a national standard should be established in collaboration with the provinces to help keep all of the components working together. The recording of horses moving in and out of horse show facilities is of central importance to the effective tracing of an infected horse, and to identifying what 40 www.equinecanada.ca
Electron photomicrograph of equine herpesvirus type 1
other horses may have been exposed to infection. “If there is a sick horse at a three day show, you will not have a diagnosis at that show, but you will have exposed horses,” says Bell. An accurate stall chart is a key component to being able to contact owners of horses that were stabled nearby. EC doesn’t expect to be able to implement the gathering of information about horse show stable charts before 2015, but some testing will take place in 2014 — likely involving some of the top events and the various software they already use for stall assignment and invoicing. A horse show facility that sets an example for Canada is, not surprisingly, Spruce Meadows. “Pre-emptive operational practises at Spruce Meadows include pre season cleaning and disinfection of our stabling areas, strong and posted communication regarding FEI veterinary treatment protocols, and strong emphasis during rider meetings on best practises and bio-security measures that need to be respected,” says Ian Allison, Senior Vice President at Spruce Meadows. “This includes the taking and recording of temperatures upon arrival and every two hours thereafter while at Spruce Meadows.” Bell would like to see further steps taken by all horse shows in terms of bio-security, but she recognizes the financial burden they would represent for competitions that often are already operating on a thin margin. “I would like to see a bio-security system where we have hand sanitizers and the capacity to establish boot baths in the face of infection at horse shows. Stall cleaning and sanitizing between each change of horses is most important” she says. “I’m also not sure we should have spectators ambling back through the stable area, but economically a horse show can’t afford to have staff control that. I think we have to provide a strong sense of responsibility on the part of our EC members, the competitors.”
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IT’S UP TO YOU At the Angelstone CDI and EC Gold Dressage Show in Ontario in June, Bell took the initiative to introduce a first step toward better management practices. With the recent outbreak of the neurological strain of EHV-1 at Woodbine fresh in everyone’s minds, she and Dr. Yves Rossier, the chair of the EC Equine Medication Control Committee, discussed bio-security steps and decided to impose a voluntary temperature-taking regime at the show. “We asked all competitors to get daily resting temperatures on their horses, to post them on the stall doors, and to report anything over 101.5 Fahrenheit to the office immediately.” Bell, who was responsible for around 60 horses stabled in the FEI barn, says she was able to monitor that area, and was pleased with the high degree of compliance to this first step toward bio-security. But she also says that the show stewards, already busy with the responsibilities of monitoring the warm up rings, struggled to keep track of the temperature postings on the other barns. EC Bronze shows would be even more challenged to maintain this barest minimum of bio-security, where there would probably not be an onsite veterinarian, and sometimes not even a show steward. Exercising bio-security at home and at shows may sound like a burden, and some might question its necessity. But as Timoney says, it’s the things that take place in the regular course of merely handling horses that can turn a human into an infector. “It’s not purely direct contact between horses. You must also accept the reality of what it means to put your hands up the nostrils of a horse, then move onto another horse without washing your hands.” The horse community also needs to shed another attitude, the one that leads to barns which have had a case of a disease such as strangles become pariahs because they did the right thing and disclosed the situation in order to protect others. “Disease doesn’t pick its victims. It’s arbitrary,” says Douglas. “We must not be punitive toward those it affects.” Staying in front of EHV-1 is an industry-wide effort, and its success rests upon its weakest links.
Portrait of an Outbreak: Ocala February 2013 February 21: a horse competing at HITS Ocala tests positive for the wild-type strain of EHV-1 and exhibits neurological symptoms; the tent stabling where the horse had been staying is placed under quarantine and testing is conducted on horses that came into contact with the infected horse. February 22: a horse stabled next to PBIEC, site of the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL is put into isolation when it is found to have a fever; after a negative EHV-1 nasal swab test result, a quarantine that had been imposed on the stable (which was being used as an FEI barn for WEF) is lifted one day later, but the FEI stabling remains closed; the horse subsequently tests positive for EHV-1 on a blood test, but there is no connection to the Ocala outbreak. February 27: the entire Hits Ocala facility is placed under quarantine, following positive tests for six horses, all of which had been stabled in adjacent tents to the index case; the quarantine period is set at 21 days from last possible exposure to the index case, provided all the exposed horses are tested before release. February 28: closure of the FEI barn at WEF is lifted after the two horses that had been stabled there and exposed to the horse on February 22 test negative to EHV-1. March 1: one of four horses located at Miles Away Farm in Loxahatchee that had been at HITS Ocala and tested positive for EHV-1 develops neurological symptoms; 13 farms are under quarantine due to the Ocala outbreak. March 13: the quarantine at HITS Ocala is lifted after all horses under observation are tested again for EHV-1 with negative results. For more information, please visit www.equinecanada.ca and click on Competitions, then Organizers, and you’ll find fact sheets on biosecurity.
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| SPORT |
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JOIGNEZ-VOUS À CANADA HIPPIQUE LORS DU CONGRÈS ANNUEL 2014 QUI SE DÉROULERA À WINNIPEG, DU 5 AU 9 FÉVRIER
e congrès annuel 2014 de Canada Hippique aura lieu du 5 au 9 février 2014 à Winnipeg, au Manitoba. Les membres de tout le milieu équestre canadien sont invités à participer à ce congrès national répondant aux besoins particuliers des participants aux sports, loisirs et industrie équestres. Si vous êtes un bénévole, un entraîneur ou un athlète, ou si vous travaillez auprès des chevaux et des gens de chevaux, ne manquez pas cet événement. L’inscription en ligne pourra se faire dès le début de janvier 2014. Des réunions des intervenants de l’industrie se dérouleront dans le cadre du congrès, ainsi que des séances de perfectionnement professionnel, séances de stratégie, stages, allocutions et conférenciers invités, ainsi que des activités sociales amusantes le samedi soir. Il y aura également l’assemblée générale annuelle de CH, où l’on fera un retour sur les gens et les événements qui ont marqué l’année 2013 et le milieu équestre canadien. Le gala de remise des prix se tiendra également durant le congrès. Cette année, les plaisirs de la table seront à l’honneur tout autant que les divertissements. Joignezvous à cette célébration des réussites de 2013.
» Sportif équestre junior de l’année — Trophée Gillian Wilson » Prix pour l’ensemble des réalisations » Prix du média — Trophée Susan Jane Anstey » Bénévole de l’année Pour prendre connaissance de l’horaire du congrès annuel 2014 de Canada Hippique, veuillez visiter le : www.equinecanada.ca/ecconvention. De plus amples détails seront publiés lorsque les conférenciers et les activités seront confirmés, alors visitez-nous très souvent ! Vous pouvez réserver votre chambre dès maintenant à l’hôtel Radisson Winnipeg, situé au cœur du centreville, à quelques coins de rue du Centre des congrès de Winnipeg, MTS Centre et plusieurs autres attractions. Un tarif préférentiel sera disponible jusqu’au 22 janvier 2014. Pour vous prévaloir de ce tarif spécial, il suffit de mentionner que vous faites partie du Groupe Canada Hippique au moment de réserver. Pour obtenir un complément d’information et pour réserver votre chambre, visitez le www.equinecanada.ca/ ecconvention ou téléphonez au 1.866.282.8395.
Les prix qui seront décernés durant le gala sont : » Prix du secteur des Sports de races chevalines » Prix aux entraîneurs de CH/PNCE
» Éleveur canadien de l’année » Cheval d’origine canadienne de l’année » Sportif équestre de l’année — Trophée George Jacobson » Trophée Hickstead 42 www.equinecanada.ca
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Les prix nationaux décernés par Canada Hippique sont :
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» Prix du secteur Santé et bien-être
Win ni pe
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Le message du président Alors que nous disons tout doucement adieu à 2013, je souhaite discuter des nombreux nouveaux changements prévus pour 2014 relativement au casque protecteur. Comme la plupart d’entre vous le savent déjà, nous exigeons le port du casque protecteur à tous les concours de chasse, saut d’obstacles et sport para-équestre depuis plusieurs années. Il y a deux ans, nous étions le premier pays au monde à imposer le casque protecteur à tous les niveaux de concours de dressage de Canada Hippique, exemple qu’a suivi l’United States Equestrian Federation dès l’an dernier. En 2014, en concordance avec les règlements états-uniens, le port du casque protecteur deviendra également obligatoire à tous les niveaux de dressage du concours complet. Par ailleurs, jusqu’à maintenant, les règlements d’endurance recommandaient fortement aux cavaliers seniors le port du casque, mais celui-ci deviendra obligatoire en 2014. En ce qui a trait à l’attelage, tous les cavaliers juniors en voiture doivent porter le casque. De plus, l’an prochain, les cavaliers de performance générale devront se conformer à ce règlement dans toutes les épreuves de hack, tandis que les cavaliers juniors y seront aussi tenus dans les épreuves western. Lors des Championnats canadiens interprovinciaux de cette année à Calgary, tous les cavaliers juniors de reining ont concouru avec un casque protecteur. J’ai également vu des photos du Championnat européen pour jeunes cavaliers, et la grande majorité des cavaliers de reining l’arboraient. D’ailleurs, certains pays ont adopté une loi imposant aux cavaliers juniors de reining le port du casque protecteur. Plusieurs États et provinces se sont dotés de lois imposant aux cavaliers le port du casque protecteur lorsqu’ils sont à cheval (la plupart à l’intention des cavaliers juniors); par contre, plusieurs de ces lois exemptent les concours. Bon nombre de personnes croient que le risque est plus élevé en saut d’obstacles. Malheureusement, j’ai vécu l’expérience horrible d’être témoin du décès de deux personnes qui montaient à cheval sans casque protecteur, et ni l’une ni l’autre ne franchissait alors d’obstacles.
Le conseil du Sport de Canada Hippique a récemment formé un « comité du casque protecteur ». L’un des objectifs de ce dernier est d’accroître la diffusion d’information relativement au casque protecteur et aux traumatismes crâniens. Il discute donc actuellement avec les représentants des disciplines de sports de races chevalines et westerns à propos de politiques à long terme sur cet accessoire indispensable. Le comité souhaite également collaborer étroitement avec les organismes de plusieurs de nos disciplines de sports de races chevalines et westerns aux États-Unis et joindre leurs discussions sur ce sujet, mais il n’a aucune intention d’imposer le casque dans ces disciplines de tenue vestimentaire western traditionnelle. J’aimerais aussi porter votre attention sur une question primordiale : tous les livrets de règlements de Canada Hippique relatifs aux disciplines de sports de races chevalines et westerns offrent aux compétiteurs le choix de porter un casque protecteur s’ils le souhaitent, et ce, SANS pénalité. Il s’agit d’une question d’éducation que nous devons promulguer à travers le pays auprès des compétiteurs, et plus particulièrement des officiels et des entraîneurs. Nous prévoyons mener prochainement un sondage auprès de nos compétiteurs de sports de races chevalines et westerns afin d’obtenir leur point de vue sur le sujet. Enfin, au moment où j’écris ces dernières lignes de l’année, j’apprends que Jean-Christophe Gandubert a quitté Canada Hippique. Cette nouvelle est fort regrettable pour la stabilité de notre organisme, mais je vous assure que le conseil d’administration de Canada Hippique est déterminé à trouver un nouveau chef de la direction le plus rapidement possible. Une nouvelle année est synonyme de nouveaux départs…Passez une excellente, et prudente, saison hivernale d’équitation. Michael Gallagher, Président, Canada Hippique president@equinecanada.ca equinecanada November | December 2013 43
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Saisissez l’occasion de vous faire entendre : votez! LE PROCESSUS D’ÉLECTION D’UN ADMINISTRATEUR GÉNÉRAL DE CANADA HIPPIQUE POUR 2013 EST EN COURS
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e scrutin est ouvert pour élire un administrateur au Conseil d’administration de Canada Hippique en poste en 2014.Tout membre individuel de Canada Hippique en règle conformément aux règlements administratifs de Canada Hippique (âgé de 18 ans ou plus à l’année d’élection) en date du 30 octobre ou avant est autorisé à exercer un droit de vote doit pour l’administrateur élu par les membres.
Rencontrez les candidats pour les postes d’administrateurs généraux 2014
Tony Eames
En plus de mes 35 années d’expérience professionnelle dans des postes de direction générale d’entreprises internationales d’envergure, j’ai œuvré longuement au sein de conseils d’administration et d’organismes sans but lucratif. D’ailleurs, ma carrière à la société Coca-Cola a progressé jusqu’à ma nomination au poste de président et chef de la direction de Coca-Cola Canada, fonctions que j’ai occupées durant 13 ans. Quant à mon expérience auprès d’organismes sans but lucratif, je compte 10 ans de présence au conseil d’administration de Tennis Canada, dont trois à titre de président. Au cours de cette décennie, Tennis Canada s’est réinventé et transformé d’organisation repliée sur elle-même et dysfonctionnelle, en, tous en conviendront, un organisme national de sport consacré aux athlètes parmi les plus importants et progressistes au Canada. J’ai également été trésorier d’Olympiques spéciaux Canada et président du Bayview Golf and Country Club, et je suis actuellement membre du conseil d’administration du Comité olympique canadien, où j’agis aussi à titre de vice-président du comité des Finances et président du comité des Investissements. Enfin, j’ai siégé au conseil d’administration d’une société ouverte et occupé le poste de président de son comité de Rémunération. Pourquoi me présenter à l’élection? Proche de la collectivité du dressage depuis près de 40 ans, j’ai observé pendant 25 ans les multiples transformations de Canada Hippique requises pour faire face à certains défis quasiinsurmontables. Je crois qu’il est maintenant temps pour moi de participer et d’aider l’organisme à accomplir ce que, à mon avis, Tennis Canada a si bien réussi. Pourquoi maintenant?
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Surtout parce que Canada Hippique est maintenant dirigé par une nouvelle équipe consacrée aux plus hautes aspirations de l’organisme. Mais aussi parce que mon mandat à Tennis Canada tire maintenant à sa fin; je bénéficie donc du temps requis pour travailler en étroite collaboration avec ces nouveaux dirigeants et contribuer à leurs efforts pour relever la barre et bâtir une fédération de classe mondiale. En résumé, je crois être très qualifié pour le poste d’administrateur élu par les membres, d’autant plus que le moment est tout à fait approprié pour me présenter et que je suis animé de la passion et du désir d’engagement envers ce sport nécessaires pour aider Canada Hippique à atteindre ses ambitieux objectifs.
Kim Inglis
Ralph Waldo Emerson a écrit : « Monter à cheval n’est pas qu’un gentil passe-temps que l’on entreprend et abandonne comme une simple partie de solitaire. L’équitation est une passion immense qui enveloppe totalement sa proie, et une fois la tâche accomplie, celle-ci doit alors accepter que sa vie soit radicalement changée. » Je suis tout à fait d’accord. Le cheval a une influence incommensurable sur ma vie et j’attribue la plupart de mes réussites aux leçons apprises en selle. Je me suis déjà engagée à contribuer à la collectivité équestre, mais je souhaite faire plus. Je possède une vaste expérience en gouvernance d’organismes sans but lucratif et en planification stratégique. Je suis d’ailleurs administratrice et ancienne présidente de la New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption Society. Au cours des cinq dernières années, j’ai organisé un nombre incalculable d’interventions dans les médias et formé des alliances stratégiques liées aux chevaux dans l’ensemble de l’Amérique du Nord. J’ai également dirigé des collectes de fonds importantes et piloté diverses plateformes organisationnelles. Sur le plan professionnel, je dispose d’une variété de compétences utiles. Bien que j’œuvre principalement dans le domaine de la finance, j’accomplis également des tâches de communication avec les médias. De plus, je possède de l’expérience dans l’industrie de la technologie, ayant développé certaines applications mobiles. En ce qui a trait à la compétition, je suis une ancienne athlète d’élite de canoë de vitesse. J’ai donc une excellente connaissance des défis que doivent affronter les athlètes canadiens. Bien que
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cette expérience ait été acquise dans un autre sport, ces défis sont universels. Tout de même, je participe aux activités équestres depuis 25 ans, tant pour le plaisir que pour la compétition.
candidature, de la gouvernance et d’éthique, et membre du comité de planification stratégique (y compris la rédaction principale de “Une vision”) et de secrétaire du conseil d’administration.
Enfin, je suis membre de Canada Hippique et du Horse Council of British Columbia et, à compter de 2014, je le serai également de la Fédération équestre de l’Ontario.
Je souhaite obtenir de nouveau votre soutien et votre confiance de façon à ce que je puisse continuer à servir les membres et faire de Canada Hippique un organisme dont nous pouvons tous être fières et fiers.
À titre d’administratrice élue par les membres, je suis convaincue de pouvoir exercer une influence positive au sein de la communauté équestre canadienne.
Tony La Giorgia
Ma participation dans le monde équestre a pris diverses formes au fil du temps - de cavalier de loisir et compétiteur à bénévole et officiel de Canada Hippique. J’ai notamment travaillé deux ans au sein du comité organisateur d’un championnat provincial et agi à titre d’officiel. Ces deux rôles m’ont donné l’occasion de nouer des liens avec les cavaliers, les entraîneurs, les parents, les éleveurs et les bénévoles. Entrepreneur basé à Montréal, je suis diplômé de l’Université Concordia et de l’Université de Guelph. À mon expérience en gestion de propriétés immobilières et en aménagement paysagiste s’ajoutent des acquis professionnels en instruction, en formation, en assurance de la qualité, ainsi qu’en développement organisationnel pour une entreprise d’assurance multinationale. De plus, j’ai agi comme bénévole auprès de diverses organismes de bienfaisance, notamment CURE et la Fondation canadienne Rêves d’enfants. Canada Hippique avance à grandes foulées depuis quelques années dans le développement et la mise en œuvre de normes nationales en vue de promouvoir l’excellence, encourager l’accessibilité et d’assurer la viabilité de l’industrie équestre au Canada. En maintenant le cap, ces objectifs pourront être atteints grâce à l’adoption de politiques rigoureuses, à une gestion efficace, à des communications ouvertes et à une promotion diligente de l’esprit sportif. Ces lignes directrices contribueront alors à faire de Canada Hippique un organisme où tous sont traités en égaux et où l’opinion de tous est prise en compte. Les trois dernières années ont été fort occupées à échanger avec plusieurs membres afin d’apprendre comment améliorer les services qui leur sont offerts par Canada Hippique. Personnellement, à cette fin, j’ai eu la chance immense d’exercer quelques fonctions au sein d’un certain nombre de comités de Canada Hippique, dont celles de président des comités de mise en
Comment voter : Pour voter, les membres doivent visiter le site Web de Canada Hippique (www.equinecanada.ca) et ouvrir une session à l’aide de leur nom d’utilisateur et mot de passe. Puis ils s’enregistrent et entament immédiatement le processus de vote. Le membre qui n’a pas de nom d’utilisateur et de mot de passe personnalisé de Canada Hippique, doit remplir le formulaire en ligne d’autoinscription à https://licence.equinecanada.ca/dal_registration/index_ fr.aspx et l’information de connexion sera fournie. Le vote par correspondance est également autorisé. Il suffit d’écrire à nominations@equinecanada.ca pour demander un formulaire d’inscription de vote avant le 14 janvier 2014. Une fois inscrit, le membre recevra les documents ayant trait à l’élection soit par la poste, par télécopieur ou par courriel conformément à sa demande.
La période de scrutin se termine le 16 janvier 2014.
Les membres peuvent communiquer avec Katherine Strong à kstrong@equinecanada.ca qui répondra à toutes vos questions concernant l’élection pour l’administrateur général de Canada Hippique. Le nom de la personne élue sera divulgué le 7 février 2014 prochain lors de l’assemblée générale annuelle qui aura lieu dans le cadre du congrès annuel de Canada Hippique, lequel se tiendra au Radisson Winnipeg, au Manitoba.
À propos de l’élection d’un administrateur général Le Comité de mise en candidature de Canada Hippique est tenu de présenter une liste de candidats en vue de l’élection d’un administrateur élu par les membres. Le conseil d’administration de Canada Hippique comprend trois postes d’administrateur élu par les membres. L’un de ces postes est à pourvoir chaque année et la personne élue est en fonction pour trois ans.
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Yann C a
ndele e
t Showg
irl
Yann Candele en pleine ascension vers les plus hauts sommets
L
’année qui vient de s’écouler a marqué un jalon pour Yann Candele. Il y a eu plusieurs prestigieux podiums en 2013 pour l’homme de 42 ans, dont ceux des importantes épreuves de saut de saut d’obstacles disputées aux concours CSI2* Rockwood, CSI2*-W Blainville, CSI2* Caledon et CSI2* Orangeville. Établi à Caledon, Ontario, Candele s’est aussi illustré sur la scène internationale. Par exemple, au CSIO5* de Barcelone en septembre, où il a pris la deuxième place dans l’épreuve de vitesse La Caixa de 1m45 (30 000 euros) et la sixième dans l’épreuve de vitesse Trophée Coca-Cola de 1m45 également dotée de 30 000 euros. De plus, Candele a écrit une page d’histoire en novembre, dans le cadre du CSI4*-W du Concours hippique Royal en étant le premier cavalier à décrocher le titre de Champion canadien de saut d’obstacles Greenhawk quatre fois d’affilée. (voir l’article sur l’édition 2013 du Royal présenté en page 49).
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Photo © Ce
aly Tetley
Cette victoire était d’autant plus remarquable qu’il montait un cheval qu’il ne connaissait pratiquement pas. Showgirl, sa jument Selle français de 13 ans, est entrée dans sa vie à peine quelques semaines avant le Royal, et les épreuves du championnat étaient leurs toutes premières ensemble. L’arrivée de Showgirl est un événement très important pour Candele. C’est le champion des Jeux olympiques de 2008, Éric Lamaze, qui a orchestré l’acquisition de la jument en demandant à Albro Creek Farm, Andy et Carlene Ziegler d’Artisan Farms, John Edwards et Uplands Farm de se joindre à lui afin d’offrir une monture de qualité internationale à Candele. La transaction s’est concrétisée durant le CSIO5* de Barcelone, alors que Showgirl représentait le Canada en finale de Coupe des nations sous la selle de son propriétaire, Jonathan Asselin d’Attache Stables. « J’ai toujours été impressionné par la façon de monter d’Yann. Je l’ai vu à Barcelone et les résultats qu’il a
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obtenus ont confirmé ce que je pensais : Yann est un cavalier de calibre mondial et nous avons besoin de personnes comme lui dans l’équipe », a dit Lamaze qui côtoie Candele depuis longtemps. Il faut dire que c’est influencé par Lamaze que Candele a quitté la France pour venir au Canada en 1999. Or, ce qui n’était qu’une visite de deux semaines aux écuries Torrey Pines de Schomberg s’est transformée en une période de huit ans, durant laquelle il a travaillé à la ferme à titre de cavalier et entraîneur. « Lorsque j’ai approché ces gens en leur demandant de m’aider à soutenir Yann, ils n’ont pas hésité à dire ‘oui’ tout de suite, poursuit Lamaze. C’est un groupe formidable et je tiens à les remercier d’avoir accepté de se joindre à moi. Nous avons confiance qu’Yann et Showgirl pourront accomplir de grandes choses pour le Canada. » Canada Hippique a réussi à joindre Candele tout juste avant son départ pour Wellington où il participera au FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival. Rappelons que ce prestigieux festival équestre qui se déroule durant douze semaines présente des épreuves de saut d’obstacles de niveau CSI disputées par les meilleurs cavaliers au monde. Au cours de l’entrevue que nous avons réalisée avec lui, Candele nous a parlé de cette période de sa vie fort palpitante, de ce qu’il veut accomplir et des objectifs qu’il s’est fixés avec Showgirl.
ENTREVUE DE CANADA HIPPIQUE AVEC YANN CANDELE CH : Vous avez remporté le championnat canadien à quatre reprises. À votre avis, quels sont les éléments qui ont contribué à réaliser cet exploit ? YC : Je ne crois pas qu’il existe un élément en particulier. Je pense qu’il faut prendre le championnat très au sérieux et y aller à fond. J’ai eu de la chance de le gagner quatre fois d’affilée après quatre sans-faute. C’est ce que ça prend pour pouvoir gagner à ce niveau. Bon, j’ai eu de la chance, mais j’ai aussi travaillé dur, voilà pourquoi. Quand tu y mets tous les efforts, tu n’as plus qu’à espérer mettre la main sur le ruban gagnant. CH : Éric Lamaze est celui qui a piloté l’acquisition de Showgirl. Comment se sent-on quand on est aussi solidement épaulé par un collègue ?
YC : C’est merveilleux. Tout le monde recherche une monture parfaite. Quand il s’agit d’un championnat, on n’a droit qu’à un seul cheval tandis qu’on a besoin de quatre ou cinq cavaliers pour former une équipe. L’esprit d’équipe est important pour Éric alors il me donne, et donne aux autres cavaliers, tout son appui. Je pense que c’est excellent pour le sport et j’ai beaucoup de chance de pouvoir en bénéficier. CH : Le championnat canadien de saut d’obstacles était votre première compétition avec Showgirl. Pouvez-vous décrire ce que vous avez vécu à cette occasion ? YC : Ce fut une expérience fabuleuse. Nous venions tout juste de l’acheter deux semaines auparavant avec Albro Creek Farm, Artisan Farms (Andy et Carlene Ziegler), Uplands Farm, John Edwards et Éric Lamaze. Ce groupe est à mes côtés et aux côtés des autres membres de l’équipe. Il y avait beaucoup d’inconnus lors des épreuves et j’étais résolu à ne pas prendre trop de risques. Lorsqu’elle a remporté le championnat canadien, nous étions si heureux car c’était vraiment un excellent départ. Nous avons un bon bout de chemin à parcourir avant de bien la connaître, alors je vais continuer à la présenter. CH : Parlez-nous de Showgirl. Croyez-vous être bien assortis tous les deux ? Où en est votre relation avec elle ? YC : Aurions-nous pu connaître un meilleur départ ? Cinq sans-faute en six épreuves! Et l’erreur qui s’est produite dans la sixième est due au fait que nous ne nous connaissons pas encore très bien. Alors, je pense que c’est un excellent départ. Maintenant, c’est le temps qui va me permettre de m’ajuster à son style. Je suis totalement enchanté car elle est vraiment celle que je croyais. Elle a un incroyable coup de saut, elle est courageuse, prudente, et elle possède la plupart des qualités recherchées chez un cheval de saut d’obstacles. Il ne reste plus qu’à tisser des liens. On verra ce que l’avenir nous réserve. CH : Comment analysez-vous vos chances de concourir aux JEM l’an prochain ? YC : J’ai un long parcours à suivre et je garde cela à l’esprit. C’est ce que nous souhaitons réaliser car mon objectif est bien de représenter le Canada à cette occasion. Ceci dit, j’y vais étape par étape. Ce n’est que le début, et je dois continuer jusqu’en septembre en enregistrant des performances constantes aux plus equinecanada November | December 2013 47
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hauts niveaux, semaine après semaine, afin d’être invité à me joindre à l’équipe. Je vais mettre en œuvre un bon programme pour Showgirl et moi afin d’atteindre mon objectif. Après, je n’aurai plus qu’à attendre la décision du conseiller technique et entraîneur Mark Laskin. Donc, nous allons nous efforcer de faire du bon travail, mais c’est tout le contrôle que nous avons. CH : Les JEM de 2014 se dérouleront dans votre coin de pays, la Normandie. Si vous êtes choisi pour représenter le Canada dans votre région natale, est-ce que cela revêtira une signification particulière pour vous ? YC : Ah oui, ce serait absolument magique, ce serait la fête. Je connais la Normandie par cœur car j’y suis né et toute ma famille et mes amis sont là. C’est une perspective tout à fait réjouissante pour moi de retourner en Normandie en tant que représentant canadien. CH : Lorsqu’on parle de jeux majeurs, comment se comparent les cavaliers et les chevaux canadiens au reste du monde ? YC : À mon avis, nous avons des cavaliers de qualité. Je peux nommer plusieurs cavaliers parfaitement capables de participer à ce niveau avec succès. Ce sont les chevaux qui font la différence car il faut avoir la chance d’être appuyé par des gens qui achètent des chevaux de qualité. C’est ce qui s’est produit avec Showgirl. J’espère que nous réussirons à motiver d’autres personnes à tenter leur chance de joindre l’équipe canadienne et représenter le pays aux grands rendez-vous. Les JEM ne sont plus très loin, et n’oublions pas que les Jeux panaméricains suivront et enfin, les Jeux olympiques. Ce sont trois jeux majeurs qui s’en viennent bientôt et les bons chevaux sont un élément crucial. D’autant plus que d’autres pays, comme l’Arabie Saoudite qui fait partie des pays émergents en saut d’obstacles, développent leurs cavaliers et leur procurent de très bons chevaux. Je le répète, la qualité des cavaliers est bien présente, mais celle des chevaux n’est pas aussi élevée que dans certains autres pays. Il en est hélas ainsi. Nous verrons. Les JEM seront bientôt là, et ils seront suivis de bien d’autres concours d’importance et j’ai confiance que nous mènerons cela à bien. CH : Quels sont vos objectifs à court et à long termes avec Showgirl ? À quoi ressemble votre plan d’avenir pour parvenir à les réaliser ? YC : C’est très clair, tant pour moi que pour le groupe de propriétaires : à court terme, prendre part à toutes les 48 www.equinecanada.ca
épreuves de Coupe des nations qui s’en viennent. Nous aurons la chance de représenter le Canada à Wellington, en Floride. La Floride, c’est essentiel pour perfectionner la jument et tisser des liens avec elle. Tout de suite après, nous nous rendrons à Calgary où il y aura une autre Coupe des nations. J’espère en faire partie. Pour la suite, c’est Mark Laskin qui décidera quels couples seront aptes à représenter le Canada aux JEM.
Découvrez 10 faits intéressants sur Yann Candele 1. Il monte à cheval depuis qu’il a dix ans. 2. Il a représenté son pays d’origine, la France, à deux reprises lors des Championnats européens juniors. 3. Parrainé par Samsung France, il a concouru partout en Europe. 4. Il a vécu au Japon où il montait à cheval et prenait part à des concours. Il a même remporté la Ligue de Coupe du monde d’Asie en 1991 et 1992. Il demeure la seule personne non originaire du Japon à détenir le titre. 5. Il a offert une prestation civile durant dix mois dans l’unité de cavalerie de l’armée française. 6. Il a fait ses débuts en Coupe des nations en France en 2001, et il a représenté la France en 2004, lors de la finale de Coupe du monde de Milan, en Italie. 7. En 2007, il fondait Normandy Hills, son entreprise d’entraînement de chevaux. 8. En 2009, il obtenait sa citoyenneté canadienne. Sa première participation à des jeux majeurs en tant que membre de l’équipe équestre canadienne était aux Jeux équestres mondiaux de 2010, où il a aidé l’équipe à se classer cinquième. 9. Son loisir principal est le golf et il est un inconditionnel des Maple Leafs de Toronto. 10. Son épouse est la cavalière canadienne de saut d’obstacles Jennifer Candele. Ils ont trois enfants, Alexandre, Tate et Mathilde.
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Retour sur le : Les grands moments du 91e Concours hippique Royal Photos © Cealy Tetley
Yann Candele a décroché son quatrième titre de Champion canadien de saut d’obstacles en autant d’années, à bord de sa nouvelle monture, Showgirl.
L
e Concours hippique Royal est une institution au Canada. À chaque année, des centaines de compétiteurs et des milliers de spectateurs affluent au stade Ricoh de l’Exhibition Place à Toronto en Ontario pour 10 électrisantes journées d’épreuves équestres. La 91e édition s’est déroulée du 1er au 10 novembre dernier. Comme toujours, l’un des principaux pôles attractifs a été l’épreuve de saut d’obstacles CSI 4*. Quelques-uns des meilleurs cavaliers et cavalières du pays étaient présents pour affronter l’élite internationale en provenance des États-Unis, d’Irlande, de la Belgique, des Pays-Bas et de la Grande-Bretagne dans l’espoir de remporter les plus grands honneurs. Tant les athlètes canadiens qu’internationaux ont bravé les parcours exigeants et innovateurs signés par Michel Vaillancourt (qui était le concepteur de parcours résident du Royal). Célèbre pour avoir été le premier
athlète équestre canadien à remporter une médaille olympique en individuel, Vaillancourt a raflé l’argent devant la foule de sa ville d’origine aux Jeux olympiques de Montréal en 1976. À titre de concepteur de parcours de niveau FEI 4*, il a réalisé les parcours de certains des plus prestigieux concours de saut d’obstacles au monde. Tout au long des 10 jours de compétition, Vaillancourt a utilisé avec créativité chaque centimètre du stade Ricoh pour les finales de circuit et pour toute une gamme dynamique d’épreuves internationales, allant du Défi canin et équin international de 15 000 $ au Défi international Ricoh Big Ben de 75 000 $, en passant par le tout nouveau Grand Prix de Coupe du monde Hickstead FEI de 100 000 $.
Candele continue de battre des records au championnat canadien Conformément à la tradition, le championnat canadien annuel a été le coup d’envoi du saut d’obstacles au Concours hippique Royal les 1er et 2 novembre en soirée. Yann Candele, de Caledon en Ontario, a ravi les foules durant la première fin de semaine en s’emparant pour une quatrième fois de suite de la couronne de champion canadien de saut d’obstacles. equinecanada November | December 2013 49
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Devant la foule de sa ville natale venue assister au Concours hippique Royal, la Torontoise Jordan Macpherson a été couronnée championne du circuit 2013 Talent Squad de Saut d’obstacles Canada.
À bord de sa toute nouvelle monture Showgirl, qu’il connaissait alors à peine, Candele a accompli trois prestations parfaites à sa participation à la première manche de la Coupe canadienne Greenhawk de 25 000 $ et à la seconde manche du 50 000 $. « Je ne la connais pas encore très bien. Nous commençons tout juste à nous habituer ensemble », souligne Candele, qui concourait pour la toute première fois avec cette jument selle française de 13 ans. « C’est Showgirl qui a tout fait. Je suis très satisfait d’elle », s’est-il exclamé après la présentation en championnat, avant d’ajouter : « Les championnats canadiens sont très importants pour moi. Je suis comblé par tout ce succès et je vais tenter ma chance à tous les ans. » Cependant, Candele n’est pas seul à vivre un conte de fée cette année au championnat. La vétérane du saut d’obstacles Beth Underhill, de Schomberg en Ontario, a eu droit au titre de vice-championne canadienne de 2013 dans cette discipline, prouesse accomplie avec Viggo, son hongre warmblood hollandais de 11 ans. Ce gain est un réel tour de force, puisqu’il y a tout juste un an, Viggo a souffert d’une blessure qui a failli mettre un terme à sa carrière de monture de haute performance. 50 www.equinecanada.ca
« Nous avons mis Viggo au repos durant une année complète en raison d’une blessure et honnêtement, je ne croyais pas à son retour en compétition d’envergure », explique Underhill, qui a aussi cumulé trois manches sans faute au cours des deux phases (la vitesse ayant fait pencher la balance en faveur de la victoire de Candele).
Des noms bien connus dans le milieu du saut d’obstacles canadien apparaissent également au classement des cinq meilleurs compétiteurs de ces championnats de 2013. D’abord, Angela Covert, de Saint-Lazare, au Québec, s’est emparée de la troisième position avec son partenaire de longue date, Utan, un hongre warmblood hollandais de 12 ans. Dans sa foulée se trouve la prometteuse Jordan Macpherson, de Toronto en Ontario (depuis longtemps élève du « Capitaine Canada » Ian Millar), qui occupe la quatrième place avec Piccobello du Val de Geeer, une jument warmblood belge de 14 ans propriété des JEM Stables inc. Isabelle Lapierre, de Breakeyville au Québec, est cinquième avec sa « petite mais coriace » jument chouchou du public Vicki Vale, une warmblood hollandaise de 11 ans appartenant aux Écuries de la Chaudière.
Macpherson persévère au Championnat Talent Squad Le classement de Jordan Macpherson parmi les cinq meilleurs compétiteurs du championnat canadien, accompli devant les siens, s’est avéré n’être qu’un déclencheur de son succès au Royal. En effet, un peu plus tard durant la semaine, elle a été couronnée championne du circuit national Talent Squad de 2013, cette fois à bord d’Aanwinst, une jument warmblood hollandaise de huit ans appartenant aux JEM Stables inc.
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Son cheminement impeccable au championnat s’est amorcé par une victoire à la phase 1 du championnat du circuit national Talent Squad Alfred Rogers de 8000 $ le 7 novembre, grâce au parcours sans faute le plus rapide dans ce contre la montre. Le 10 novembre, le couple a de nouveau conquis le sommet après le cumul de deux autres manches parfaites à la phase II du championnat du circuit national Talent Squad Alfred Rogers de 10 000 $. Puis, après une première manche prudente, la jeune femme a offert une prestation audacieuse au barrage, devant des spectateurs épatés. « Je pense avoir accompli une bonne prestation », a-telle dit après son fulgurant barrage. « Michel a fait du très bon travail avec ce parcours et les compétiteurs étaient très forts aujourd’hui. Je savais que le barrage serait très rapide. » David Arcand, de Ville Mont Royal au Québec, est vice-champion du circuit national Talent Squad de 2013 grâce à une quatrième position à la phase I, puis une deuxième à la phase II, toutes obtenues avec sa jument zangersheide de huit ans Cassis Z Ten Halven.
Les cavaliers d’équitation montrent tout leur talent en cette 25e édition de la finale de Médaille EEC En plus d’être la Mecque du saut d’obstacles, le Concours hippique Royal offre également l’occasion aux jeunes cavaliers de démontrer leurs habiletés en équitation. Des cavalières et cavaliers des quatre coins du pays se présentent à cet événement à chaque année afin de participer à des finales où seront mises à l’épreuve leurs compétences équestres.
Nora Gray (Owen Sound, Ont.) a été la grande gagnante de la finale Médaille EEC Running Fox.
La finale de Médaille EEC Running Fox de saut d’obstacles célébrait son 25e anniversaire au Royal de 2013. La fondatrice et supportrice de longue date de l’Équipe équestre canadienne Barbara Anderson était présente afin de remettre les plus hauts honneurs à Nora Gray, d’Owen Sound en Ontario. Gray, originaire d’une famille de cavaliers, dont ses parents Jennifer et Jim, ainsi que son frère Robert, a exécuté en souplesse les trois phases de la Médaille EEC avec son partenaire équin Papa Douba Diob, un hongre oldenbourg de 11 ans appartenant à Karina Aziz. Après une prestation impressionnante qui lui a valu une deuxième position le 6 novembre à la phase de plat avec exercices de gymnastique, laquelle imposait des reprises composées de tours sur les hanches, de tours sur l’avantmain, de contre-galop, de changements de pied, de combinaisons simples et doubles, de sauts de puce et d’une combinaison en quatre parties, Gray a complété la phase de sauts le lendemain avec un résultat de 87. Son résultat total s’élève à 177 après son exécution réussie des reprises de saut d’obstacles parsemées de lignes brisées, d’une combinaison triple et d’une barre de spa, laquelle lui a valu la note gagnante de 90. equinecanada November | December 2013 51
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Alexandra Perry (Vancouver, C.-B.) a remporté l’édition 2013 du championnat canadien Médaille Saut d’obstacles Canada.
rubans et des médailles pour chaque phase. Après la cérémonie de remise de prix, un hommage particulier a été présenté à Anderson pour son soutien indéfectible des cavaliers canadiens d’équitation au cours des 25 dernières années. Au cours d’une entrevue donnée à la fin de la cérémonie, on lui a demandé si l’évolution de la Médaille EEC correspond à ses vœux au moment de sa création. Elle a répondu que, non seulement elle était conforme, mais elle l’excédait même grâce à l’amélioration de la technique équestre au cours des 25 dernières années. Elle a ajouté que les cavaliers sont certainement plus raffinés qu’à l’époque.
Se retrouvant parmi les quatre cavaliers choisis pour une reprise finale, Gray a assuré sa victoire en maîtrisant le parcours raccourci où les athlètes devaient sautent à partir du trot, du contre-galop et du grand galop. « (Après avoir remporté la phase de saut d’obstacles) c’est avec beaucoup de confiance que j’ai entrepris le rappel », a dit celle qui a également participé à la finale de Médaille EEC l’an dernier et obtenu une troisième place au classement général. « J’avais un excellent cheval et je savais que je pouvais lui faire confiance », ajoutet-elle. Les deuxième et troisième positions du classement sont respectivement occupées par Sarah Barker, d’Hamilton en Ontario, et par Haley Stradley, d’Aldergrove en Colombie-Britannique (qui a aussi remporté la phase de plat et gymnastique). Paige Mawson, de Toronto, complète le quatuor des meilleurs. En récompense de sa victoire, Gray a reçu une selle Childeric flambant neuve des mains de Debra Smith, de Running Fox, un commanditaire de longue date de l’Équipe équestre canadienne. Cette entreprise a également remis des licols Walsh au 16 meilleurs compétiteurs. Saut d’obstacles Canada a remis des 52 www.equinecanada.ca
Anderson attribue le peaufinage de la technique équestre au travail sur le plat. « Selon moi, l’épreuve a été remportée à la phase au plat. Un cavalier en mesure d’accomplir toutes les exigences sur le plat se hissera au sommet, et aujourd’hui, seuls les quatre ou cinq meilleurs se sont ainsi démarqués », explique-t-elle. Félicitations à Anderson, à Saut d’obstacles Canada et au Concours hippique Royal pour leur soutien de l’excellence en équitation depuis 25 ans.
Alexandra Perry gravit plus hauts échelons de la finale de la Médaille de Saut d’obstacles Canada Le Royal présente également à chaque année une finale nationale d’équitation en chasse, la Médaille de Saut d’obstacles Canada. La championne de cette année est Alexandra Perry, de Vancouver en ColombieBritannique.
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« (Mon cheval) a surpassé mes attentes et c’était très agréable », commente Perry, attribuant un juste mérite à Alezan, son hongre westphalien de 17 ans, qui est son partenaire depuis deux ans. « Je vise cet objectif depuis très longtemps. Je vais donc devoir me trouver un autre but encore plus exigeant et substantiel pour l’an prochain. » L’entraîneure de Perry, Laura Balisky (une vétérane de l’équipe canadienne de saut d’obstacles, propriétaire, avec son époux Brent, du Thunderbird Show Park à Langley en Colombie-Britannique) était également emballée par cette victoire : « J’ai trouvé Alexandra formidable. Elle était très précise et elle a fort bien monté. Je suis extrêmement fière d’elle. » Pour sa victoire, Perry a reçu une médaille d’or, un veston de Saut d’obstacles Canada, une couverture séchante et le Trophée commémoratif Leslie P. Usherwood au cours d’une cérémonie présidée par sa fille et sa petite-fille.
David Marcus (Campbellville, Ont.) et sa monture des Jeux olympiques de Londres 2012, Chrevi’s Capital, ont remporté l’étape du Grand prix de la Royal Invitational Dressage Cup de 20 000 $.
Perry a trimé dur le 5 novembre pour remporter ce titre, complétant les traditionnelles trois phases qui débutaient par une manche complète de saut d’obstacles, suivie d’une manche sur le plat, puis d’un parcours réduit de sauts à l’intention des quatre meilleurs cavaliers. Toutefois, de façon relativement exceptionnelle, les juges de cette année ont invité les deux meilleures cavalières à franchir une étape supplémentaire en exécutant une deuxième reprise de sauts. Perry y a donc affronté Jessica Blum, de Gormley en Ontario. Les juges ont alors demandé aux cavalières de sauter à partir d’un grand galop, puis d’effectuer un arrêt et de retourner au trot à leur position d’alignement. Après une brillante prestation au cours de laquelle elle a accompli un grand galop bien franc, Perry a été couronnée championne nationale de la finale de la Médaille de Saut d’obstacles Canada de 2013.
Jessica Blum occupe la deuxième position, suivie de Savanna King, de Calgary en Alberta en troisième, puis de Dannie Murphy, de Charlottetown à L’Île-du-Prince-Édouard en quatrième. Pour obtenir de plus amples renseignements sur la Médaille EEC et la Médaille de Saut d’obstacles Canada, y compris les renseignements généraux et les détails relatifs aux épreuves annuelles de qualification, aux finales régionales et à la finale nationale, consultez le www.equinecanada.ca/jumpcanada.
La très populaire Coupe de dressage sur invitation de retour au Royal Le Concours hippique Royal a constamment poursuivi sa croissance et sa diversification au fil de son histoire. Ainsi, le dressage, depuis son arrivée à bord, gagne en popularité à chaque année, attirant des foules considérables au stade Ricoh. En fait, la « Soirée des reprises libres de dressage » est maintenant si courue qu’elle est la toute première à avoir lieu à guichets fermés. equinecanada November | December 2013 53
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Diane Creech (Caistor Centre, Ont.) a ravi l’auditoire au Concours hippique Royal et remporté la reprise libre de Grand Prix, présentée dans le cadre de la Royal Invitational Dressage Cup de 20 000 $.
Les épreuves de Coupe de dressage du Royal sur invitation de 20 000 $ de 2013 (généreusement commanditée par Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic) n’ont pas fait exception à cette tendance de popularité. Offertes selon les normes d’un concours de niveau Or de Canada Hippique, elles se sont déroulées sur deux jours, soit les 6 et 7 novembre. Les quatre meilleurs Canadiens au classement mondial de la Fédération équestre internationale (en date du 1er septembre 2013) ont été invités à prendre part aux épreuves de Grand Prix et de reprise libre de Grand Prix.
et conservatrice, ce qui était mon objectif de la journée. Il s’agissait de son deuxième concours à vie à l’intérieur. Le premier était l’an dernier et il était un peu nerveux, alors je voulais bâtir sa confiance, ce que je pense avoir réussi », précise Marcus.
Cette année, les compétiteurs étoiles invités étaient Jacqueline Brooks, de Cedar Valley en Ontario, Diane Creech, de Caistor Centre en Ontario, David Marcus, de Campbellville en Ontario, et Evi Strasser, de SainteAdèle au Québec.
Par ailleurs, une note de 63,901 % a permis à Evi Strasser, 10 fois finaliste de Coupe du monde de la Ligue canadienne de dressage, de se classer en troisième position avec sa monture Action Tyme, un hongre oldenbourg de 13 ans. Enfin, l’athlète deux fois olympique Jacqueline Brooks la talonne de près en quatrième place avec une note de 63,901 % obtenue avec D Niro, un hongre warmblood suédois de 14 ans appartenant à Mary Brooks, de Brookhaven Dressage Inc.
Marcus a démarré en force, remportant l’épreuve de Grand Prix le 6 novembre grâce à une note de 70,00 % obtenue à bord de sa monture des Jeux olympiques de Londres de 2012, Chrevi’s Capital, un hongre warmblood hollandais de 13 ans appartenant au commanditaire de l’épreuve, Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic. « Je crois que, dans l’ensemble, (Chrevi’s Capital) a exécuté une reprise tout simplement très jolie, propre 54 www.equinecanada.ca
Creech, médaillée d’argent en équipe aux Jeux panaméricains de 2007, lui emboite le pas. Elle a obtenu une note de 67,801 % à bord de son partenaire de longue date Devon L, un hongre hanovrien de 13 ans appartenant à Doug et Louise Leatherdale.
En reprise libre de dressage, Creech s’est assuré la victoire en décrochant la meilleure note du jury (75,417 %). Elle a choyé la foule enthousiaste avec une
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prestation puissante sur la musique émouvante de la série télévisée Les Tudor. « (Devon) est un cheval extraordinaire. Nous dégagions beaucoup de puissance, mais il a tout de même offert une très belle reprise rythmée. Ce fut un beau moment. C’est un cheval très, très talentueux », souligne Creech, qui a été la seule cavalière et entraîneure de Devon au cours des 10 dernières années. « L’atmosphère était assez électrisante, alors je crois que les chevaux étaient un peu inquiets. Mais j’ai été très satisfaite de lui et il s’y est senti très en confiance. Je pense qu’il a eu autant de plaisir que moi. » « C’est merveilleux de se trouver au Royal. J’aime la foule. Développer la confiance du cheval de dressage pour accomplir ce que nous faisons à domicile, l’emmener au concours et le présenter dans un tel environnement exige du temps. Nous touchons ce but. », poursuit Creech. Elle explique alors que son prochain objectif avec Devon L sera de concourir à l’Adequan Global Dressage Festival en Floride cet hiver afin d’obtenir les notes de qualification qui lui permettront de prétendre à l’équipe des Jeux équestres mondiaux de 2014 en France. Par ailleurs, Marcus et Chrevi’s Capital ont obtenu 72,917 % pour leur reprise entraînante, exécutée sur un pot-pourri des tubes de George Michael et de Wham! et chorégraphiée par le renommé concepteur de reprise libre Joost Peters, des Pays-Bas. Brooks suit au classement grâce à une note de 72,042 % qui lui a valu la troisième position. Les Waylon Roberts, de Port Perry en a été couronné champion spectateurs ont intensément réagi à son choix Ontario, du concours complet intérieur. musical exclusivement canadien formé de tubes populaires tels que Hallelujah de Leonard Cohen occupe la meilleure place au classement de dressage et Home for a Rest de Spirit of the West. À la fin de sa Longines de la Fédération équestre internationale. prestation, elle affichait son enthousiasme bien connu et a vivement accordé tout le crédit à D Niro, en remerciant à la fois les spectateurs à coup de saluts et de sourires. La prestation de Strasser, présentée au son d’un amalgame de chansons bien connues de Genesis, a également bien plu aux spectateurs et lui a valu 67,375 % de la part des juges, pour une quatrième place au classement.
Waylon Roberts domine le concours complet intérieur pour la septième fois
Une cérémonie de remise des prix a eu lieu à la fin de l’épreuve de reprise libre. Au cours d’une présentation spéciale, Marcus a reçu le trophée Nicoll, remis à tous les ans au compétiteur du Concours hippique Royal qui
Le concours complet intérieur célébrait sa huitième année lors du 91e Concours hippique Royal. Les parcours de cette épreuve excitante et très rythmée reproduisent les obstacles que l’on retrouve au cross-country, equinecanada November | December 2013 55
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modifiés toutefois pour l’intérieur. Des obstacles de saut traditionnels sont également intégrés. Le capitaine Mark Phillips, le célèbre concepteur de parcours qui a aidé l’équipe britannique de concours complet à remporter des médailles d’or et d’argent, est revenu pour une deuxième année de suite afin de concevoir et construire un parcours redoutable pour le circuit Horseware Ireland Indoor Eventing de 20 000 $. Il a intégré une combinaison d’obstacles solides, de clôtures de saut, de distances reliées et d’options de cercles vers l’intérieur, le tout exigeant hardiesse et prudence des cavaliers. Les obstacles vedettes de cette année étaient, notamment, un trou de serrure décoré de haies, un obstacle en bois solide taillé en forme de cochon, une table, des berges de la Normandie et un obstacle de coin. Le concours complet intérieur s’est déroulé en deux manches durant la fin de semaine d’ouverture, les 1er et 2 novembre. Les deux phases étaient chronométrées, alors qu’un obstacle renversé résultait en l’octroi de quatre secondes de pénalité et un refus avec déplacement d’un obstacle résultait en six points de pénalité. Aucun temps n’était ajouté pour un premier refus sans déplacement d’obstacle. Toutefois, un deuxième refus ou la chute du cheval ou du cavalier entraînait l’élimination. À la fin des deux manches, les deux temps chronométrés étaient additionnés et le temps combiné le plus rapide déterminait le gagnant. Dix cavaliers au total ont participé. Huit des meilleurs athlètes canadiens de concours complet ont été invités en fonction de leurs résultats récents en concours national et international de la Fédération équestre internationale. Un duo de cavaliers récompensés sur la scène internationale se sont joints à eux, soit Oliver Townsend et William Fox-Pitt, de Grande-Bretagne. Townsend a notamment remporté une médaille d’or en équipe aux Championnats européens de concours complet de 2007, tandis que Fox-Pitt est l’un des plus célèbres cavaliers de concours complet au monde. Il est d’ailleurs deuxième au classement mondial de concours complet HSBC de la Fédération équestre internationale de 2013. C’est toutefois les Canadiens qui ont dominé encore une fois cette année. En effet, pour une incroyable, inimaginable septième fois, Waylon Roberts, de Port Perry en Ontario, a été couronné champion du concours complet intérieur. Avec sa monture Bill Owen , un
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cheval de sport canadien de neuf ans appartenant à la mère du cavalier, Kelly Plitz, Roberts a rapidement complété sa première manche, mais le déplacement d’une barre lui a coûté cher et son temps a été rajusté à 69,24 secondes, ce qui lui a valu une troisième position. Roberts était de retour le soir suivant animé de l’intention manifeste de gagner. Il a exécuté tous les cercles intérieurs sans perdre le rythme. Malgré un moment angoissant à l’obstacle en forme de cochon, il n’a encouru aucun point de pénalité et terminé avec un temps de 75,70, ce qui lui a valu la victoire à la deuxième manche. Son temps total pour les deux manches s’élève donc à 144,94, ce qui en fait le plus rapide de tous les compétiteurs et lui permet de conserver son titre de champion pour une septième fois. « À chaque année, j’essaie de trouver le bon cheval pour le Royal. C’est l’élément le plus important pour réussir l’épreuve. La monture doit être calme et fiable dans les situations nouvelles, ainsi que prudente et brave. (Bill Owen) est un cheval de concours complet relativement inexpérimenté, mais l’une de ses plus belles qualités est son désir de gagner. Il m’a vraiment sauvé la peau cette année à l’un des obstacles », explique Roberts. « Une participation au Royal est un véritable honneur et je suis très chanceux de posséder les chevaux de qualité qui m’ont permis de réussir si bien », ajoute Roberts, qui était le membre le plus jeune de l’équipe canadienne médaillée d’argent aux Jeux panaméricains de 2007. « Les concours complets intérieur et ordinaire sont comme de lointains cousins : même nom de famille, mais très différents. Le capitaine Phillips a accompli un travail remarquable en répartissant le parcours sur toute la longueur du manège, offrant ainsi une impression de plus grande ouverture. » À quelques foulées derrière Roberts se trouve Kendal Lehari, d’Uxbridge en Ontario, première cavalière de 2011 de l’Ontario Horse Trials Association, avec un total de deux manches de 146,20 secondes. Lehari a mérité le titre de vice-championne avec sa monture Daily Edition , un hongre thoroughbred de 15 ans appartenant à sa mère, la cavalière vétérane de concours complet Gwendalyne Lehari. Le troisième cavalier de cette épreuve, avec un doublé combiné de 149,81 secondes, est l’athlète olympique canadien Ian Roberts, père de Waylon et vice-champion du concours complet intérieur de l’an dernier. Pour une
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Jessica Phoenix, d’Uxbridge en Ontario, athlète aux Jeux olympiques de 2012 et médaillée d’or en individuel des Jeux panaméricains de 2011.
deuxième année de suite, il montait Faolan, un cheval de sport irlandais de neuf ans propriété de Kelly Plitz. Puis, la quatrième place est occupée par la très prometteuse Lindsay Beer, de Midhurst en Ontario, et sa monture El Paso , un hongre trakehner de 11 ans appartenant à Penny Beer. Fox-Pitt complète le classement des cinq meilleurs en compagnie de son cheval prêté Autorytet, un hongre thoroughbred croisé de 11 ans appartenant à la jeune cavalière canadienne Dash Ivandaeva. Kelly Nicholls, directrice commercial pour l’Amérique du Nord de Horseware Ireland, présidait la cérémonie du championnat du Horseware Ireland Indoor Eventing de 20 000 $. Cette cérémonie a été suivie d’une tradition durant la soirée de concours complet au Concours hippique Royal, soit la présentation du prix du Général Michael Gutowski, remis à chaque année au compétiteur canadien de concours complet intérieur inscrit aux plus hauts échelons du classement mondial de concours complet HSBC de la Fédération équestre internationale.
La récipiendaire de cette année est Jessica Phoenix, d’Uxbridge en Ontario, athlète aux Jeux olympiques de 2012 et médaillée d’or en individuel des Jeux panaméricains de 2011. Ce prix se veut un hommage à la mémoire du cavalier olympique de concours complet Gutowski, également connu sous le nom de « Colonel », qui était un juge, un entraîneur et un instructeur respecté au Canada durant plusieurs années. Il est également connu pour avoir fait découvrir aux cavaliers canadiens le style classique européen d’équitation. Pour obtenir les résultats complets du Concours hippique Royal et obtenir l’accès à la vidéo sur demande, consultez le site Web www.royalfair.org. De plus, des renseignements complets sur tous les circuits de saut d’obstacles et d’équitation de Saut d’obstacles Canada sont publiés au www.equinecanada.ca/jumpcanada. Des détails supplémentaires sur les concours de Dressage Canada sont publiés au www.equinecanada.ca/dressage, alors que ceux relatifs au concours complet seront obtenus au www.equinecanada.ca.
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Canada Hippique profite du pour consacrer les contributions remarquables aux sports équestres
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’atteinte des plus prestigieux podiums requiert beaucoup plus que la qualité équestre du cavalier. Les propriétaires de chevaux, les officiels et les bénévoles jouent aussi un rôle irremplaçable dans le succès de nos sportifs équestres canadiens sur la scène internationale. C’est pourquoi Canada Hippique a le très grand plaisir de remettre chaque année ses prix d’honneur à des personnes remarquables. Les prix pour contributions exceptionnelles aux disciplines de dressage de saut d’obstacles ont été décernés en novembre dans le cadre du Concours hippique Royal qui se déroule annuellement à Toronto, en Ontario. Canada Hippique est fier de présenter les lauréats de ses prix de l’année 2013 :
Kim Morrison — Officiel de l’année de Saut d’obstacles Canada Kim Morrison (Calgary, Alberta) a reçu le prix d’Officiel de l’année 2013 au cours d’une cérémonie spéciale tenue le 2 novembre à l’occasion d’une réception offerte par le Panthéon équestre de Saut d’obstacles Canada. Au cours de sa carrière de cavalière, Morrison s’est notamment positionnée Le président de Saut d’obstacles Canada, John Taylor, remet à Kim au top 15 du classement Morrison le prix d’Officiel de l’année 2013 de Saut d’obstacles Canada. canadien de la Ligue de Coupe du monde, en plus de figurer sur la liste longue des Jeux olympiques de Barcelone en 1992. Aujourd’hui retraitée, elle se consacre tout entière à sa fonction d’officiel. Elle détient deux accréditations, soit celles de juge et de commissaire, et elle est fréquemment invitée à siéger au sein des jurys de terrain de concours majeurs. Photo © Michelle C. Dunn
Morrison détient le niveau FEI 4* en saut d’obstacles et elle est membre du comité FEI des Officiels en saut d’obstacles. Depuis 2009, elle est également présidente 58 www.equinecanada.ca
du jury de terrain de Spruce Meadows. Parmi ses états de services en tant qu’officiel, mentionnons qu’elle a été sélectionnée pour faire partie du jury de terrain aux Jeux équestres mondiaux de 2010, à la finale de Coupe du monde de 2012, ainsi qu’aux Jeux olympiques de 2012. Elle vient tout juste d’être nommée comme membre du jury de terrain aux Jeux équestres mondiaux qui se tiendront en Normandie en 2014. « Vous me faites honneur en me remettant ce prix, bien que gagner un prix n’a jamais été mon but. J’ai voulu être juge afin de redonner au sport et je le fais du mieux possible, a-t-elle expliqué. Le saut d’obstacles m’a ouvert des perspectives extraordinaires et je lui en suis sincèrement reconnaissante. Ce prix est une autre merveilleuse facette de ma carrière. Je suis très touchée et je tiens à remercier Saut d’obstacles Canada de reconnaître mes efforts. »
Margaret ‘Muffie’ Guthrie — Bénévole de l’année de Saut d’obstacles Canada Margaret ‘Muffie’ Guthrie (Guelph, Ontario) a également été honorée durant la réception du Panthéon équestre en étant nommée Bénévole de l’année 2013 de Saut d’obstacles Canada. « Je suis enchanté que les nombreuses contributions de Muffie au sport soient soulignées aujourd’hui, Photo © Michelle C. Dunn de même que son travail Le président de Saut d’obstacles empreint de distinction Canada, John Taylor, remet à Muffie et d’élégance. », a déclaré Guthrie le prix du Bénévole de l’année 2013 de Saut d’obstacles Canada. le président du Panthéon équestre de Saut d’obstacles Canada, Mark Samuel. Les disciplines de chasse et de saut d’obstacles sont, depuis toujours, au centre de son existence, et font aussi partie intégrante de la ferme familiale Knightwood Stables sise à Arkell, en Ontario. Mais sa dévotion envers le sport va bien au-delà de l’entreprise familiale.
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Bénévole infatigable, elle recrute des commanditaires, recueille des fonds au bénéfice de l’équipe équestre canadienne, et met tous les efforts pour mettre sur pied et lancer le circuit de Derby de chasse canadien. Muffie a grandement contribué à la cause derrière la réception où elle a justement été honorée, oeuvrant sans relâche à la promotion et la gestion des relations avec les intronisés pour le Panthéon équestre de Saut d’obstacles Canada. « Je suis emballée, surprise et honorée par le geste de reconnaissance de Saut d’obstacles Canada envers mon travail de bénévolat, a-t-elle dit. Il est important pour moi de travailler au sein du Panthéon équestre de Saut d’obstacles Canada du fait de mon attachement au sport, et de l’histoire du saut d’obstacles. Il est essentiel de valoriser et de partager notre histoire, car cela influence notre avenir et notre réussite dans ce sport. »
La famille Ziegler — Propriétaire de l’année de Saut d’obstacles Canada Artisan Farms est devenu un nom connu dans le milieu équestre, grâce à l’extraordinaire générosité de ses propriétaires, Andy, Carlene et Caitlin Ziegler. Les membres de la famille Ziegler sont de fantastiques bienfaiteurs pour le sport de saut d’obstacles au Canada. Ils ont offert des montures
Photo © Cealy Tetley
de calibre mondial aux membres de l’équipe canadienne de saut d’obstacles. En raison de leurs remarquables contributions en 2013, Saut d’obstacles Canada a choisi de leur décerner le titre de Propriétaires de l’année 2013 pour une seconde fois d’affilée. Ils ont été honorés le 6 novembre au cours d’une cérémonie spéciale à l’occasion d’une épreuve présentée en soirée au Royal. Les chevaux d’Artisan Farms ont grandement contribué au succès de l’équipe canadienne de saut d’obstacles lors de sa participation aux quatre Coupes des nations de cette année. Mentionnons tout particulièrement la performance que Victor a réalisée en mars alors qu’il obtenait deux sans-faute sous la selle de l’athlète olympique Tiffany Foster lors de la qualification de Coupe des nations (75 000$) de Wellington, ce qui a permis au Canada de prendre le second rang. En mai, Artisan Farms faisaitt l’acquisition de trois montures de haute performance, soit Verdi III pour Foster, et Powerplay ainsi que Quelmec du Gery pour le champion des Jeux olympiques de 2008, Éric Lamaze. « C’est un grand honneur d’être nommé Propriétaire de l’année une seconde fois, a dit Carlene Ziegler. Nous nous faisons un plaisir d’aider Éric et Tiffany et d’être témoins de leurs réussites pour l’équipe d’Artisan et l’équipe du Canada. »
(De gauche à droite) Le président de Saut d’obstacles Canada, John Taylor, Caitlin et Carlene Ziegler, et la directrice, saut d’obstacles, de Canada Hippique, Karen Hendry-Ouellette.
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Photo © Cealy Tetley
(De gauche à droite sur la photo) Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic, Vel Miculinic et David Marcus sur Chrevi’s Capital.
Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic — Propriétaire de l’année de Dressage Canada
« J’aimerais exprimer ma gratitude la plus profonde à mes amis et ma famille qui m’ont toujours soutenue ainsi qu’à Dressage Canada pour ce magnifique prix. Et je dis merci de tout cœur à David Marcus ainsi qu’à mes chevaux qui me permettent de les accompagner tout au long de cette aventure palpitante », a-t-elle dit.
Madame Kinzinger-Miculinic a doté la Royal Dressage Invitational Cup d’une commandite de 20 000$. Elle est en outre propriétaire de Chrevi’s Capital, l’un des chevaux qui participaient à l’épreuve. Monté par David Marcus, Chrevi’s Capital a remporté le Grand prix et obtenu la seconde position dans la reprise libre de ce niveau. Il est alors facile de comprendre pourquoi Dressage Canada lui a décerné le prix du Propriétaire de l’année 2013 le 7 novembre lors d’une cérémonie spéciale.
En plus d’offrir généreusement son cheval à David Marcus afin qu’il puisse représenter le Canada lors des jeux majeurs, elle a montré un engagement indéfectible envers le développement du nouveau Programme d’aide aux athlètes canadiens de dressage (le C-DAAP). Ce programme qui revêt une importance cruciale vise à fournir une aide financière aux cavaliers canadiens de dressage. Le programme a vu le jour après qu’elle ait pris conscience des sommes d’argent qu’un athlète doit investir pour s’entraîner, se qualifier, se préparer et concourir à l’international. En assumant un rôle de leadership dans ce projet, son profond désir d’appuyer et d’encourager les athlètes de talent continuera encore longtemps de mobiliser de nouveaux espoirs de progrès dans la bonne direction.
Mais la lauréate a mérité le titre pour des raisons qui débordent largement du cadre du Royal. Du fait de son engagement comme propriétaire de montures de haut niveau, elle a permis à Marcus de faire ses débuts aux Jeux olympiques de Londres l’an dernier aux rênes de Chrevi’s Capital.
« En collaborant tous à la mise en œuvre de programmes novateurs qui appuient nos cavaliers et leur offrent la possibilité de réaliser leurs objectifs par le biais de financement soutenu, le dressage de ce pays sera reconnu comme un chef de file dans le milieu sportif », affirme madame Kinzinger-Miculinic.
Si vous avez assisté aux épreuves du Concours hippique Royal, ou si vous les avez suivies en ligne, il y a fort à parier que le nom de Deborah Kinzinger-Miculinic vous dise quelque chose. Son important appui au sport est partout présent.
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Nouvelle du département des loisirs de Canada Hippique
PROGRÈS DU NOUVEAU PROGRAMME DE FORMATION EN ÉQUITATION DE PLEIN AIR
Le manuel de formation La version anglaise du manuel de formation en équitation de plein air sera dévoilée pour la vente lors de la convention annuelle de Canada Hippique prévue du 5–9 février 2014 à Winnipeg, Manitoba. Ce manuel, intitulé « A guide to basic Horsemanship and Trail Riding in Canada », fut scruté à la loupe par grand nombre de professionnels impliqués dans le loisir et/ou l’industrie du tourisme équestre, et contient toutes les notions de base permettant une pratique sécuritaire de l’équitation de plein air. Le manuel fut développé afin que le grand public puisse y trouver un tas d’informations pratiques. Il sert également de matériel de référence pour le programme de formation en équitation de plein air.
C
Photo © Pascal Ratthé
anada Hippique est heureux de vous faire parvenir les derniers détails au sujet du lancement de son nouveau programme de formation en équitation de plein et en tourisme équestre. Au mois de janvier 2013, Canada Hippique signait avec Québec à cheval l’entente qui allait permettre l’utilisation du programme de formation en équitation de plein air et en tourisme équestre à l’échelle nationale. C’était un premier pas vers la structuration de ce secteur d’activités équestres. Depuis, Canada Hippique a fait l’embauche d’Audrey Lapointe pour prendre le leadership de la division du loisir, des sentiers et du tourisme. Lapointe possède une expérience pertinente en tant que cavalier de plein air et d’endurance, elle avait également déjà travaillé à titre de consultante pour Canada Hippique avant de joindre l’équipe à temps plein. Voici un compte rendu des développements et projets qui permettront aux adeptes de loisir équestre de mieux comprendre ce que Canada Hippique entend développer au cours des prochaines années.
Programme de formation en équitation de plein air Le programme de formation en équitation de plein air et en tourisme équestre fut conçu afin de permettre aux amateurs de plein air à cheval de développer les compétences nécessaires pour assurer leur sécurité et divertissement lors des sorties en sentiers. Il peut également servir d’outil d’autoévaluation pour les cavaliers de plein air intéressé. Les sujets de formation comprennent la régie d’écurie, l’entraînement de base, les premiers soins et soins d’urgence, la maréchalerie, la topographie, la gestion de randonnée, la gestion de risque en plein air, la pédagogie, la didactique et plus encore. Le programme comprend la formation et la certification des cavaliers randonneurs, des accompagnateurs de randonnée, des formateurs en équitation de plein air, des guide de tourisme équestre et des spécialistes de différentes activités liées à l’équitation de plein air. Les plans de formation seront disponibles en ligne sous peu, et contiendront tous les détails de la certification et des procédures d’évaluation. (Suite à la page suivante) equinecanada November | December 2013 61
| CANADA HIPPIQUE |
La mise en place du programme Le programme de formation fut adopté par Canada Hippique afin de permettre aux provinces de disposer d’un outil supplémentaire structurant pour le secteur du loisir équestre. La mise en place du programme à l’échelle nationale se fera par l’entremise des provinces, avec l’aide de Canada Hippique. Présentement, en collaboration avec un comité national et les provinces, une stratégie est en œuvre afin de planifier la sélection des champions et les sites où auront lieu les premiers ateliers d’évaluation pour les niveaux de formateur et de guide 1,2 et 3. Voici le calendrier prévues pour la mise en place du programme. Février Mars Avril Mai Juin Juillet Août
Lancement du manuel de formation por cavalier randonneur : L’Équitation de Plein Air – Cahier de charge et plans de formation disponibles Sélection par les provinces des candidats identifiés comme champions – lancement en ligne des plans de formation et du matériel pédagogique Pré-sélection des candidats et préparation pour évaluation de certification Évaluation de certification des champions – Région Est/ONT Deuxième évaluation des champions – Région Centre Troisième évaluation des champions – Région Ouest Suivi et support pour la planification d’atelier d’évaluation dirigés par les provinces
Pour toutes questions ou informations supplémentaires pour devenir un des premiers formateurs/champion du programme national de formation en équitation de plein air, communiquez avec votre organisation provinciale.
Toutes les informations sont également disponible dans la section loisir du site WEB de Canada Hippique www.equinecanada.ca. Photo © Pascal Ratthé
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| SPORT |
JOIN US IN “THE CITY OF RIVERS” FOR THE 2014 EQUINE CANADA ANNUAL CONVENTION FEB. 5–9
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he 2014 Equine Canada Annual Convention is set for Feb. 5–9 in Winnipeg, MB. Members of the equestrian community from across Canada are invited to participate in this national convention, which is tailored to address the unique needs of participants involved in equestrian sport, recreation, and industry. If you are an active volunteer, a coach or athlete, or work with horses and horse people in any way, this event should not to be missed. Online registrations will open in early January 2014. The convention will feature industry specific meetings, professional development and strategic sessions, clinics, key note addresses, guest speakers, and a fun-filled Saturday night social. It will also host the EC Annual General Meeting, featuring a year-in-review of the people, work, and events that have supported Canada’s equestrian community in 2013. The convention will also play host to the 2014 Equine Canada Awards Gala. This year the gala boasts an evening of delicious cuisine and delightful entertainment. Join us as we recognize and celebrate the successes of 2013.
Awards presented at the gala include: » Breed Sport Canada Awards
» Media Award — The Susan Jane Anstey Trophy » Volunteer of the Year To review the event schedule for the 2014 Equine Canada Annual Convention, please visit: www.equinecanada.ca/ecconvention. Further details will be posted as speakers and sessions are confirmed, so please check our event page often! Reservations are now open for the host hotel, Radisson Hotel Winnipeg, located in the heart of downtown, only blocks from the Winnipeg Convention Centre, MTS Centre, and many other attractions. A preferred room rate will be available until Jan. 22, 2014. Simply mention that you are with the “Equine Canada” group when making your reservation to receive our special convention rate. For reservation information and to book your room, visit www.equinecanada.ca/ecconvention or call 1-866-282-8395.
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» Health and Welfare Awards
» Lifetime Achievement
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» EC/NCCP Coaching Awards
» Junior Equestrian of the Year — The Gillian Wilson Trophy
Equine Canada National Awards to be presented include: » Canadian Breeder of the Year » Canadian-bred Horse of the Year » Equestrian of the Year — The George Jacobson Trophy » The Hickstead Trophy
equinecanada November | December 2013 63
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