Midwest Horse Source

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 3

MAY/JUNE 2012

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry.

Inside This Issue...

• Fire Devastates McHenry Stable: One trainer’s personal story • Working Equitation The next big thing in equine sports • Visit Lamplight Equestrian Center

PLUS...

Calendar of Events News Roundup Training Tips Horse Properties Trail Column & more!

Top 5 ‘My Purina Horse’ Stories -page 21

2 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MIDWEST MAY MAY 31-JUNE 3–USEF 'A' Hunter/Jumper Show featuring a USHJA Hunter Derby, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html.

MAY 31-JUNE 3–Taylormade Horsemanship Clinic, Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, IL. Contact Kimber DiTallo 847/4361234.

JUNE JUNE 1–Midwest Academy Riding Series I, Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, IL. http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/events/.

JUNE 1-2– 2000 Olympic Dressage Champion Christine Traurig, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact Alice Guzik 847/514-0652 or dressageclinics@gmail.com.

JUNE 1-3–Sommers Gate Farms Trainers Workshop with Mark Schwarm, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/644-5859 or tomleasomm@hometel.com. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com.

JUNE 2–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Marquis Stables, Belvidere, IL. Contact Amy Walker-Basak 815/547-9173 or walktalk1999@aol.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/.

MAY/JUNE 2012

CALENDAR

OF EVENTS

JUNE 2–Frank Morgan Memorial Open Horse Show Series, Quarter Circle 7 Ranch, Marengo, IL. Contact Karen Sander 815/861-2644 or qc7teampenning@hotmail.com.

JUNE 3–Silver Spurs 4-H Club Open Speed High Point Buckle Show, Shelby County 4-H Fairgrounds, Shelbyville, IL. Contact Yolanda Nation 217/226-4254 or Theresa Boehm 217/254-0624.

JUNE 2–Green River Saddle Club Night Speed Show, Amboy, IL. Contact Joyce 815/973-1371. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JUNE 3–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event & Dressage, Winsom Farm, Beecher, IL. Contact Diane Hansen 847/638-1052 or diane.r.hansen@comcast.net, www.idcta.org/schooling/.

JUNE 2–Back to Basics clinic with Gary Gibson, Albany, WI. Contact Gary Gibson 608/862-2452 or glgibson@tds.net

JUNE 3–Equestrian Connection Trail Races: 5K, 10K, Marathon, Lake Forest, IL. Contact 847/615-8696.

Visit www.equestrianconnection.org.

JUNE 2–Heart of Illinois Spring Schooling Show: Dressage, Combine Test, Jumping, Brimfield, IL. Contact CJ Baker 309/3700144 or prctack@gmail.com or www.heartofillinois.ponyclub.org.

JUNE 6-10–Showplace Spectacular I, Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, IL. Visit http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/.

JUNE 2-3 Green River Saddle Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JUNE 7-9–6th Annual Spotacular Ride at Hayes Canyon, Campground, Eddyville, Illinois. Sponsored by Shawnee Hills ApHC. Contact 618/266-9828 or shawneehillsaphc@mvn.net.

JUNE 2-3–Illinois Paint Horse Show, Gordyville USA, Gifford, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Steve Pfaff 815/942-5542.

Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com.

JUNE 2-3–Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/2356410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net, www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JUNE 8-10–Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net.

Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JUNE 9–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact Denise DeCicco 815/675-6048.

Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com or www.idcta.org/schooling/ JUNE 9–Outdoor Arena Driving Trial, Indian Hills Training Center, Gilberts, IL. Contact Organizer MaryAnn Carter 847/769-5191 or ihdrivingtrial@gmail.com. Visit indianhillsstables.com.

JUNE 9–Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Linda Sorensen "L", Schooling Show Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com.

JUNE 9–Reiki for Animal Lovers, Level I, Harvard, IL. Contact Pam Sourelis, Reiki Master/Teacher, 815/351-8155. Visit WingedHorseHealing.com.

JUNE 9-10–Fox Valley Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JUNE 10 – Hunter/ Jumper Schooling Show, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact 262/857-8555. Visit http://www.sunflowerfarms.com/.

JUNE 10–Clinic at Indian Hills Training Center with Mary Ruth Marks, Gilberts, IL. Contact MaryAnn Carter 847/769-5191 or ihdrivingtrial@gmail.com.

JUNE 10–FVSA Mini Event #1, Hampshire, IL. Contact Lisa Will 630/803-1904. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/.

JUNE 10–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event & Dressage, Frontenac Farm, West Dundee, IL. Contact Cindi Martinovic 847/426-0938 or frontenacfarm@msn.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/.

JUNE 10–KWI Saddle Club Show, Halter, Pleasure & Working Horse Classes, Kankakee, IL. Visit http://kwisaddleclub.com/.

JUNE 10–Chad Kelly-Colt starting. Diamond Acres, Woodstock, IL. Contact Jodi Funk 815/210-1309.

JUNE 11-14–Chad Kelly Kids Camp. Diamond Acres, Woodstock, IL. Contact Jodi Funk 815/210-1309.

JUNE 12-15–Advanced Horse Camp, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/summercamp.html.

JUNE 13-17–Showplace Spectacular II, Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, IL. Visit http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/.

JUNE 14-15–Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Peggy Klump "S" Dressage, June 14* (SH) Peggy Klump "r" Sport Horse, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com.

JUNE 15-17–Sommers Gate Farms Equine Yoga Retreat with Debora Brindley, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/6445859. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com.

JUNE 15-17–Metamora CDE XXVIII Windrush Farm, Metamora, MI. Contact Larry Wheeler 248/969-8221, lnwheeler@charter.net.

Visit www.metamoracarriagedriving.com.

JUNE 15-18–Alex Gerding Clinic, Touchstone Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact Caryn Vesperman 608/455-2208 or touchstonefarm@gmail.com.

JUNE 16–Are You Smarter than a 4-H Kid? clinic with Gary Gibson, Albany, WI. Contact Gary Gibson 608/862-2452 or glgibson@tds.net.

JUNE 16–Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Bev Rogers "S" Dressage, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/6424111. Visit sorensenpark.com.

JUNE 16–Boone County 4-H Annual Fundraising Open Horse & Pony Show, Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact Kim Davis 815/737-8102 or Nancy Saunders 815/509-7002.

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 3

MIDWEST JUNE 16–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Cross Winds Farm, Marengo, IL. Contact Kelly Watson 815/923-7400.

Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/.

JUNE 16–KWI Saddle Club Gaming Show, Pole Bending and Barrel Racing, Kankakee, IL. Visit http://kwisaddleclub.com/.

JUNE 16–Silver Spurs 4-H Club Open High Point Buckle Show, Shelby County 4-H Fairgrounds, Shelbyville, IL. Contact Yolanda Nation 217/226-4254 or Theresa Boehm 217/254-0624.

JUNE 16-17–Chad Kelly-Relationship Building Clinic. Diamond Acres, Woodstock, IL. Contact Jodi Funk 815/210-1309.

JUNE 16-17–Columbus Horse & Carriage Festival, Fireman’s Park, Columbus, WI. Contact 608/835-7473 or frei@chorus.net.

JUNE 16-17–Silverwood Farm Spring Horse Trials, USEA recognized, Starter Novice/Beginner Novice/novice/Training levels, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/2356410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net.

Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JUNE 17–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact Elizabeth Kieffer 262/8578555 or office@sunflowerfarms.com, www.idcta.org/schooling

CALENDAR

OF EVENTS

JUNE 30–Boone County 4-H Open Driving Show, Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact Kris Hall 815/871-1470 or klharle@yahoo.com.

JUNE 30-JULY 1–Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Intro Grand Prix, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JULY JULY 1– Green River Saddle Club Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JULY 1–B-Bar-C Interstate Horse Promoters Annual Open Horse & Pony Summer Show (formerly the B-Bar-C Boone County Saddle Club), Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact 815/547-5629 or bcihp.club@gmail.com.

JULY 1– Seth Davis Show Horses Benefit Show, Elkhorn, WI. Contact Nancy Ruehle 262/470-5509 or Becky Ruehle 262/4703633.

JULY 1 – Green River Saddle Club Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JULY 1 – B-Bar-C Interstate Horse Promoters Annual Open Horse & Pony Summer Show (formerly the B-Bar-C Boone County Saddle Club), Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL.. Contact 815/547-5629 or bcihp.club@gmail.com.

JULY 2-6 –Green River Saddle Club Annual 5-Day Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Lois 815/757-6583. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com.

JULY 6-8 – Janet Foy Clinic, Judd’s Green Meadows Farm, Belleville, WI. Contact Mary Hanneman 608/455-1037 or mahanneman@gmail.com.

JULY 6 – Midwest Academy Riding Series II, Lamplight Equestrian Center, Wayne, IL. Visit http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/events/.

JULY 7-8 – WIS-ILL BDGP Show, FVSA in Hampshire, IL. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/ or http://www.wis-ill-bdgp.com/.

JULY 7-8 – MVMHC Society Horse Show, HOI Arena, Peoria, IL. Contact Brenda 309/647-1818. Visit www.mvmhc.org.

JUNE 19-22–Beginner Horse Camp, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/2444121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/summercamp.html.

JUNE 22-23–Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Thomas Poulin "S" Dressage, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen, Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com.

JUNE 22-24–Healing Touch for AnimalsÆ Level 2 Course, Westmont, IL. Contact Kathy Tanouye 847/373-9255 or ChicagoIL@HealingTouchforAnimals.com.

Visit www.healingtouchforanimals.com.

JUNE 22-23–IDCTA Summer Kickoff Dressage Show at Lamplight, Wayne, IL. Contact Debbie Garris 312/401-1157 or DGarris@HorseShowSolutions.com.

Visit http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/.

“PREMIER BOARDING FACILITY...FOR YOU

AND

YOUR HORSE”

Boarding starting at $520.00

JUNE 23–Main Stay Therapeutic Riding Program New Volunteer Training, Richmond, IL. Contact Danielle 815/3829374. Visit www.mstrp.org.

170 Acre Equestrian Facility Conveniently located just 5 miles west of Hwy. 94 or 15 minutes north of Gurneee Mills Mall, in Bristol, WI.

JUNE 23–Illinois Paint Horse Show, Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Donna Daum 815/239-1171 or daumshowhorses@aol.com.

Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com.

JUNE 23-24–Skunk River Driving Trial, Three G Farms Equine Center, Ames, IA. Contact 515/450-1041, www.bitsiowa.com.

JUNE 24–IDCTA Summer Dressage Show at Lamplight, Wayne, IL. Contact Debbie Garris 312/401-1157 or DGarris@HorseShowSolutions.com, lamplightequestriancenter.com/.

JUNE 24–FVSA Dressage Show #1, Hampshire, IL. Contact Gail Gardner 630/830-0790. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/.

JUNE 24–Open Show, Lenox, IL. Visit www.francisfield.org/home.

JUNE 24–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage, Fox Valley Saddle Association, Hampshire, IL. Contact Gail Gardner 630/830-0790 or eyeevent@sbcglobal.net, www.idcta.org/schooling/ or http://www.fvsa.org/.

JUNE 24-28–Lake Shore Region Pony Club Camp, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Linda Strom linmstrom@yahoo.com. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

JUNE 29-JULY 1–Sommers Gate Farms Colt Starting Workshop with Mark Schwarm, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/644-5859. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com.

JUNE 30–IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event & CT, HayWire Farms, Galena, IL. Contact Anita Johnson 815/7770261 or Haywirefarmsllc@aol.com. Visit www.idcta.org/schooling/.

JUNE 30–McHenry County HC Open Show, McHenry County Fairgrounds, Woodstock, IL. Contact Suzanne Langan 815/7904460 or qtr.horse8@yahoo.com. Or Chris Northup 815-3382307.

JUNE 30–McCrae Farms 25-Year Anniversary Equestrian Theater Montage , Grayslake, IL. Contact 847/546-5164 or jem60030@aol.com. Visit www.mccraefarm.com.

JUNE 30–KWI Barrel Bash to Benefit Children s Memorial Hospital, Kankakee, IL. Contact 815/685-5265, kwisaddleclub.com.

Amenities: 3 Outdoor Dressage Rings 1 Outdoor Hunter Ring 1 Make-up Ring 3 Heated Indoor Arenas 125 Turnouts 22 All-weather Turn-outs 24 Hour Security and Horse Monitoring Boarder Lounges & Washrooms Individual Tack Lockers

Hunter/Jumper Trainers Michelle Lyons Becky Zinke & Ariel Univer Rhonda & Rene Arza

Dressage Trainers: Connie VanderWeele Darcy Drije Curtis Sage Andre Huefler

Upcoming 2012 Events: Hunter/Jumper Schooling Show June 10 IDCTA Schooling Shows June 17 • August 5 • September 29 Buck Brannaman Clinic September 14, 15, 16 & 17 Bettina Drummond Clinic October 11, 12, 13 & 14 USDF Region 2 Jr./YR Clinic w/Jeremy Steinberg November 17, 18 PLUS: Weekly Summer Camps for ages 8-16, and Mini Camps for ages 6-8 19000 128th St. Bristol, WI 53104

www.SunflowerFarms.com

262/857-8555

4 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012 Sandy and Sunshine, 1972

Are you a friend yet?

Lead Lines Everyone’s gotta’ start somewhere

by Sandy Kucharski, editor/publisher sk any horseman and I’m sure that he or she can recall every detail of their first real ride. For some it was before their feet could reach the stirrups, but they felt the independence of taking the reins and steering on their own. For others, it came as a victorious celebration after a period of persistent campaigning for the opportunity to take riding lessons. And still others faced their first ride with the wisdom that comes with age, taking up riding at a point in their life when they were already eligible for AARP membership.

A

As a toddler I’d been placed on friends’ horses and strapped onto the saddles of the pony ride mounts, but my first real ride came just after my sixth birthday on the back of my very own pony. Sunshine was a tiny palomino Shetland, and she was the pony of my dreams. Fully saddled and bridled, I took my first rides while my mom held a long leadrope attached to her halter. I learned to pull her head up from the grass and steer her where I wanted to go. Once I mastered those tasks, I was off-line and on my own.

Decked out in my white straw hat (complete with a neck cord so I could let it hang on my back) I began living the life of a cowgirl...and I’ve never stopped.

I sought out other kids in my neighborhood with ponies and we spent hours riding together, wearing paths along the roadside between our houses. We were also introduced to 4-H and that lead me down a whole new path...the world of competition. I was eager to learn what was expected of me and I liked having something to practice for. Our pony gang staged our own mock horse shows where we honed our skills and dreamed of our moments of glory.

When it was finally time for the real thing, I recall loading a hesitant pony into the open bed of our pickup truck which my dad backed into the roadside ditch in front of our house. He’d outfitted the back of the truck with a wood framework to contain her.

She wasn’t trimmed or clipped, but she was clean and her beautiful white mane and tail was combed to perfection. I donned my trusty straw hat (with neck string attached), and a crisp red and white checkered shirt and blue jeans. When I lead Sunshine into the arena at the Kane County Fairgrounds at our first real open show, I was glowing as brightly as her golden palomino coat. They announced my number for third place in pony halter and I took that yellow ribbon like it was Olympic gold.

The memories of that first open show are embedded in my mind, as well as the highs and lows of the many that followed. Looking back, we were all pretty green and we certainly didn’t know as much as we felt that we did at the time, but it was a great starting point.

The ad on this page is promoting a new show series called Grass Roots Horse Shows, designed to give novice competitors positive exposure to the competitive world at an introductory level. The product of a brainstorming session with over 30 area horse trainers, barn owners and managers, the Grass Roots Horse Show and Academy Challenge team competition consists of three schooling shows at the premiere show facility, Lamplight Equestrian Center.

Program sponsors, Purina Feed, Equine Productions Inc., Lamplight Equestrian Center and Saddler’s Row are supporting this youth program with a goal to promote the riding industry in a fun and safe environment. The resulting program should serve to entertain, enhance skills and encourage new families to participate in equine sports.

The first show is the weekend of June 1-3. Whether you have a youth rider who might be interested in learning what this is all about, or if you’re a seasoned competitor who’s been there and done that, consider stopping by and watching some youth riders experience their first introduction to the competitive world.

The ad features U.S. Equestrian team member and Olympic gold medalist show jumping competitor, Beezie Madden. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Beezie began riding at the age of three and like every other little girl her age (including me), she was a fan of TV star horse, Flicka. That was even the name of her first horse.

The more we learn about the horse world the more we are driven to excel in various disciplines. Success can be measured by judged competition or by the level of trust and partnership we share with our horses. But one thing remains constant for everyone...we all had to start somewhere.

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 5

Features

8

©

Midwest Horse Source Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry ©2012 Kucharski Publishing Editor/Publisher Sandy Kucharski

As the smoke clears...

One trainer’s personal story of loss and recovery.

by Lisa Kucharski

10

Does Working Equitation Ring a Bell?

Clinic coverage of the next big thing in equine sports.

by Judy Eftekhar, photos by Chuck Swan

Associate Editor/Web Manager Lisa Kucharski Allied partner - Land o’ Lakes Purina Feed Paul Homb, Account Manager Published six times per year: January/February March/April May/June July/August September/October November/December

12

See what’s center stage at Lamplight Discover the beauty and history of this world-class show facility.

by Sandy Kucharski

Columns 4-Lead Lines

NEXT DEADLINE: June 18-22 Advertising and Editorial Office Kucharski Publishing 18209 Collins Rd. Woodstock, IL 60098 815/568-6772 mwhorsesource@gmail.com

9-Checkerboard Chatter

13-The Perfect Round 14-Better Safe Than Sorry...

15-Living The Dream 16-Day Tripper 17-From The Side of the Trail 18-The Winning Edge 19-Horse Werks

Departments 2-Calendar

Website: www.midwesthorsesource.com

6-Midwest Round-Up

20-Corral Business Listings 20-Classified

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All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

22-Greener Pastures, Real Estate Listings Cover photo by Lisa Kucharski Mare and foal belong to the Eddy family, Woodstock, IL

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Horse Source

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6 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

NEWS • COVERAGE • UPCOMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP Yoga on Horseback Retreat

Filly Twins, Wautoma, WI

–June 15-17, Sommers Gate Farms, St. Jacob, IL

Y

oga Instructor, Debora Brindley, will be conducting a 2-night, 3 day spiritual retreat that will feature individual Yoga instructions and Yoga on horseback for beginners, meditation, reflection, relaxation and an inspirational movie at Sommers Gate Farms, June 15-17. Activities will also include trail riding, making new friends and fun.

Debi wants to share the Yoga experience with the participants who join us for this spiritual and stimulating event. It is her goal to show you how Yoga has a positive affect on the body and make it even more worthwhile by showing you exercises you can do on your horse. Yoga creates harmony, balance and peace in our bodies and our minds and deepens our spirituality. It influences muscles and ligaments, the skeletal system, circulation, the nervous system, glands, the immune system, the mind and our emotions. Through Yoga, we can relay that ease and inner peace to our horses at the same time we are experiencing it ourselves.

Debi points out that Yoga is about peace of mind. Its primary function is not the stretch or the pose but the calmness that ultimately results. Debi will demonstrate how, through Yoga and meditation, you can let go of anger, resentment, grudges, handle stress, find spirituality and more rationally accept the trials and tribulations of life. She is honored to be a part of this uplifting event and hopes participants come away from the retreat with a new attitude toward life and a renewed spirit.

The retreat is limited to ten (10) participants. All riders will stay in the bunkhouse at Sommers Gate Farms which is fully equipped with all the amenities of home: refrigerator, stove, microwave, television, VCR, DVD player, three bedrooms, full bath.

Horses will be located on site with their owners. Photos of the bunkhouse and clinic information can be found on the website at www.sommersgatefarms.com. To register, contact Lea Sommers at 618-593-0999 or tomleasomm@hometel.com .

When Pam Woolbright had her mare Blue Lacy ultra-sounded earlier this spring, the vet confirmed she was bred and saw one healthy foal in the picture. Imagine Pam’s surprise when she visited the barn on the morning of April 18 and found two healthy foals standing and nursing!

She explained, “We do have cameras in the barn but that night for some reason the camera was not on. We did not expect her to have the baby

for another week. That night Lacy gave birth to the twins alone. Yes, all by herself!”

The chances of a horse having twins and having them with no trouble and all 3 of them to live is 1 out of 10,000 chance! For the twins to have made it to the first two weeks and survive is one out of 15,000! Olivia and Sophia, sired by Black Jack Shadows, are now a month old and still healthy.

Light Center Shines on through Main Stay Therapeutic Riding Program

S

ara Foszcz announced the acquisition of the Light Center Program to enhance services for people with disabilities through animal-assisted therapy programs. Since 1987, Main Stay has provided equine-assisted therapeutic activities for individuals with disabilities in Richmond, Illinois. Now, the organization will offer the Light Center’s services to at-risk youth at the Union, Illinois adaptive barnyard setting, utilizing rescued animals to rescue kids.

Light Center founder Jan Cederlund

is retiring and identified Main Stay as a viable option to continue her mission.

She explained, “As the Light Center Foundation winds down, its light is far from dimming. The light shines on through Main Stay and makes the future brighter for everyone.”

The Main Stay board of directors agreed the blending was beneficial.

Board president Sara Foszcz announced, “The power of the work we do will be enhanced with the absorption of the equally powerful work of the

Light Center. Blending the best of both programs, allows us to serve the community with a stronger and more deeply integrated program.”

Main Stay Therapeutic Riding Program Board President Sara Carla Kaizen, formerly with the Light Center, has joined the Main Stay staff and will continue to offer sessions in Union through March 2013. At which time, Main Stay hopes to relocate all programming to Richmond.

The acquisition coincides with Main

Stay’s 25th anniversary. Currently serving 80 students a week with the help of 125 volunteers, Main Stay promotes wellness and self-empowerment through individualized equine-assisted therapeutic activities for people living with a broad spectrum of challenges.

Main Stay will celebrate 25 years of “Horses Healing Humans” at its annual Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala on May 4 at Donley’s Village Banquet Hall in Union, IL. For tickets or sponsorship information, please call 815.653.9374 or visit www.mstrp.org.

Full Day Clinics Planned at Gibson Training Center–June 2, 16 & July 28, Albany, WI

G

ary Gibson, one of our Purina Ambassadors, is known for helping people and their horses perform at their best. Gary operates out of Gibson Training Center in Albany, WI. He will share his expertise, advice, and training methods in several clinics coming up this summer. Call 608-862-2452 or send an e-mail to glgibson@tds.net to register.

BACK TO BASICS Saturday, June 2, 2012 from 10 am - 3 pm (limit - 5 horses - if we have a good response, we will add another date) Every horse and rider benefits from increased focus on the "basics" including ground work, suppling exercises, calisthenics, speed control, and smooth transitions. We will have openings for up to 5 people to bring their horses and work with Gary for the day. Those who

just want to watch and learn will be welcome to audit. Horse and rider: $150, Audit only: $25.

ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 4-H KID?: Saturday, June 16, 10 am - 2 pm A Clinic for 4-H parents & new horse

SENSIBLE HORSE SHELTERS™ Custom Built Horse/Livestock Shelters

Portable Reasonably Priced Quick Delivery Well Made (No assembly required) For More Information Contact: Three Different Types With Mike Grossman, 25537 52nd St., Salem, WI 53168 Different Options Available 262/537-3402 www.sensiblehorseshelters.com

owners.

This clinic (originally held for a group of 4-H parents from Green County) was such a hit, we've decided to expand it!

Are you a 4-H parent or grandparent who would like to learn more and get more comfortable with horses?

Or, perhaps you are brand new to the world of horse ownership and would like to learn the basics and increase your knowledge while you increase your comfort level?

This day is for you! No need to haul a horse - we will use the "horse staff" at

Do you have news or upcoming events to share?

Email it to Midwest Horse Source: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

Gibson Training Center to help you learn. This will be a combination of demonstration and hands-on experience. Registration: $20 TRAIL OBSTACLES July 28, 2012 from 10 am - 3 pm (limit - 10 horses if we have a good response, we will add another date) Trail obstacles are a test of your horse's responsiveness and manners and the rider's patience and ability to communicate with the horse. In this clinic, you will learn how to plan your approach, cue your horse, and navigate a trail obstacle course in a smooth and pleasing manner. We will have openings for up to 10 people to bring their horses and work with Gary for the day.

Those who just want to watch and learn will be welcome to audit. Horse & rider: $150, Audit only: $25

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 7

NEWS • COVERAGE • UPCOMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP Clinic Review: Muffy Seaton: Muffy, not so tuffy... . . . that is, unless you hang on the reins, then be prepared for some pretty firm instruction from this four-time national champion who literally wrote the book on bending the driving horse (and made the video). Throughout this twoday driving clinic held April 23rd and 24th at Theresa and Marvin Adams’ farm in Rockton, IL, competitor, judge and CAA evaluator Muffy Seaton patiently showed participants and auditors how and why the driving horse must actually be more supple laterally than the riding horse.

At times, her teaching became hands on, as she drove quite a few of the turnouts and even long-lined “Ali,” a 15yo Arabian gelding owned by Kathy Bryan. Her focus throughout all the lessons: keep the inside rein to maintain the bend and half halt on the outside rein to move the withers (and the horse) to the outside. It is not possible to hold the horse out with the outside rein was advice given to Emily Berendt behind the 6yo Morgan mare “Circe”—that’s when they begin looking to the outside or

counter-bending. Drivers must learn to maintain a steady, yet alive, conversational feel of the inside rein and give and take on the outside rein as needed.

We all practiced saying the word “cat” in time with the flight of the horse’s inside hind leg, because that’s how long the outside half halt should last. Small ponies like Lisa Buttonow’s “Lucy” tested our tongues, with her cat-cat-cat quick gait. Larger horses like Kim Cameron’s “Willy”, a 5yo Dutch Harness, had a longer stride with more air time and sounded like CAAT - - CAAT - CAAT. The important concept was to apply a squeezerelease, squeeze-release, squeeze-release that only lasted as long as the inside hind leg is in the air.

Drivers quickly became familiar with Muffy’s famous “on and offs” exercise, which begins by turning down the quarterline and leg yielding back to the rail. Yes, that’s right, leg-yielding the driving horse. Eventually this exercise became turn off the rail onto the quarterline, keep the inside

submitted by Lydia Gray

bend, leg yield back to the rail, and repeat as many times as possible down the long side at the walk first then the trot.

Clinic hostess Theresa Adams picked up this technique

quickly and was able to demonstrate the exercise in both directions with her 9yo Morgan gelding “Jeep.”

However, Muffy stressed that horses just learning the princi-

Above: Muffy works with Cathy Thomas.

Below: Marsha Kremer takes her turn.

ple should only be taught one direction in a lesson. The second way can be saved for another day.

By the last lesson of the last day usually participants, auditors and guests are ready to head home, but everyone stayed to see Mary Ruth Marks’ new four-in-hand of dark gray leaders and light gray wheelers. After the requisite safety check (which she performed for all turnouts) Muffy didn’t hesitate to climb aboard for the maiden voyage. There were a few rough patches, but for the most part her new team instantly gelled and did remarkably well for their first time together. Here’s hoping Muffy Seaton comes back to Illinois for more excellent driven dressage training!

Muffy-isms: “Driving is the equivalent of walking across boulders with a blindfold through shark-infested waters.”

“Horses want to know where and how fast 100% of the time.”

“Driving is like teaching someone Russian, in Braille, through the mouth.”

8 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

As the smoke clears...

A devastating barn fire claims companions and careers

by Lisa Kucharski

A

s Seth Davis sped down the road at 90 miles per hour from Antioch to McHenry, Ill., the only worry on his mind was if his horses made it out of the burning barn. Davis had just walked into a grocery store around 5 pm to pick up dinner for him and his wife when M&R Overlook Farm barn owner Midge Lindblom called with the frightening news.

The blaze on April 11 at 101 W. Bay Road, McHenry, Ill., destroyed the 20,000-square-foot barn and killed 18 of the 35 stalled horses. Because no fire hydrants were present in the area, 21 departments responded, hauling in water and battling flames and smoke until midnight. Some returned the following morning to extinguish parts of the barn that were still smoldering.

Davis pulled up twenty minutes later to a blocked road, parked his car in a stranger’s driveway and ran a half mile to reach the barn. But like the neighborhood residents standing outside across the street, all he could do was watch.

The fire also cost Davis emotionally and financially. Once the fire died down and the surviving horses were taken in by several generous barns in the area, Davis faced the daunting task of searching the rubble for remains. He had to identify bodies of five of the 12 horses he had in training.

“20 Minutes after I was there, I went around to the pastures to see who was there,” explains Davis, a young Paint horse trainer. “I had to sneak to the back to see the horses because the firefighters would not allow anyone through.”

“[I was] overwhelmed and feeling sick about the phones calls that were made to customers regarding their horses and the ones that still needed to be

Editor’s Note: Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected by the recent barn fires in our area– April 11, M&R Overlook Farm, McHenry, IL (18 horses lost) as well as a May 3 fire that destroyed Larry & Rhonda Spratto’s barn, Pickett, WI (13 horses lost).

This is just one of the many stories of loss.

made, telling them [their horses] didn’t make it,” Davis recalls. “It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do.”

As a result of his job, Davis naturally developed a connection with these horses, making the loss even more difficult to come to terms with.

“Emotionally, it is never easy to lose an animal, much less ones you look at like your own,” Davis says. “You can’t spend as much time with them as I do and not have a relationship with them.”

The fire also damaged Davis’ livelihood. He lost his whole source of income as well as all of his business assets. Everything from saddles, bridles and blankets, to clippers, spurs, and a grooming vacuum were consumed by the blaze. Overall, the damage estimate is roughly $25,000.00.

“It put a lot of things on hold and I

had to stop and re-evaluate,” Davis says. “My Futurity season is down the drain due to the loss of time. Everything you work for during the winter months is brought to a screeching halt within 30 Minutes.”

But thanks to friends and kind strangers, Davis is getting some help rebuilding his program. A little under $500 in donations was collected during Midwest Horse Fair by Kati Buffa of Kate’s Kloset. Among other events, a benefit horse show hopes to raise funds for the trainer. Davis’ friends Becky and Nancy Ruehle planned and organized the Seth Davis Show Horses Benefit Show, on July 1 at the Walworth County Fairgrounds in Elkhorn, Wisc. beginning at 9 am.

Right now, Davis is split between two barns, but is working to find a place to call home. He is rebuilding his business and currently has nine horses in training.

“I have the Ross family in Grayslake to thank for their help in moving all of my horses out of there and organizing everything,” Davis exclaims. “It is amazing how this industry can pull together and help one another out when in need. It truly does make you thankful for what you have.”

Visit www.midwesthorsesource.com or our Facebook page for the Seth Davis Show Horses Benefit Show show bill.

If you have any donations, you can contact Seth Davis at sdavishowhorses@aol.com See information about barn fire safety in our March/April Issue on page 19.

After picking through the debris, all that Davis managed to salvage were some charred bits, a stirrup iron, and silver pieces of a show halter.

A pile of rubble is all that remains of the 20,000 square-foot facility the morning after the fire.

Pictured below: Trainer Seth Davis on "Only Shot Left" in 2011. Owners Crickett and Kevin Kelly lost their beloved horse in the April 11, 2012 fire.

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 9

Checkerboard Chatter with Purina Sales Specialists Kelly Grosskreutz

Kirk Dailey KADailey@landolakes.com

by Kindra Callahan, Sales Specialist Land O Lakes Purina Feeds, LLC

have always had a heart for critters big and small, I love them all! Unless they don’t have legs, like snakes. I’m not sure I love snakes. Just the same, I never thought of owning a donkey, let alone a miniature donkey. Over the years my husband, Aaron, has mentioned wanting a donkey; I never really paid much attention thinking he was simply being silly. Until…

I

This last spring our gelding Goose found himself lonely on Callahan Ranch after our two younger geldings were moved to a different barn. He spent his days pacing the fence line and refusing to eat; a combination I was growing weary of very quickly. Aaron and I agreed he needed a companion. It all happened very fast then. I mentioned to a few valued Purina® customers that I was looking for a small companion for our gelding.

Do you realize how many people own miniature donkeys? There are heartwarming donkeys all over Northern Illinois! But, Lea Ann Koch at Koch Farm Quarter Horses introduced us to the best one of all: the one and only Otto! My girlfriends, Bekah, Erika and Vikki, and I made the road trip to Koch Farm Quarter Horses to pick up Otto and bring him to his new home.

Having never heard of Oswego the girls lovingly bestowed the name “Otto from Oswego” to our newest critter.

It was love at first sight, for Goose that is. He immediately “adopted” Otto like the whole thing was his idea. While in the pasture Goose and Otto are inseparable. Whenever the other two make their way home Goose spends the first day herding Otto to maintain a “safe” distance from his pride and joy and the “intruders.” Otto is like a little kid with long lost cousins when he gets to see our other horses. They wrestle like boys. Literally! Otto will grab them

KLGrosskreutz@landolakes.com

Kindra Callahan KCCallahan@landolakes.com

Callahan Ranch Presents

‘Otto from Oswego’ by their ankles and pull them down to the ground! We can spend hours being entertained by Otto and “his boys.”

I love Otto too. I call him my “exotic” miniature donkey because of his “unique” color pattern. I spoil him in every way I can. He is so stinking cute it is hard not to. I have five nieces and nephews who look forward to coming to Auntie Kindra’s simply because of Otto.

Our horses are pasture fed in a group. This proposes an interesting challenge when attempting to appropriately feed a miniature donkey and decrease the opportunity for unnecessary calorie consumption. Depending on the season and work load our geldings’ diet changes between: Strategy GX®, Ultium Competition®, Enrich 32® and supplemental Amplify®.

Miniature donkeys, like ponies and miniature horses can be fed any of our Purina® products that fit their lifestyle, in much smaller daily weights depending on their size and age.

My goal is to feed Otto only Enrich.

In one pasture this is very manageable because we have a tall bunk feeder and Otto simply cannot reach. So, he is content with consuming his personal concentrate from his own feed tub under the bunk. When we rotate to the opposite pasture there are only feed tubs. I have two more tubs than there are horses so that the “low man on the totem pole” can gain some ground and have a chance to eat before being herded off to the next tub. Generally in this situation Otto just eats with Goose. We try to watch his weight closely. We love Otto very much and our number one goal is that he is able to live a long healthy life here.

ABOVE: Goose and Otto the first day we brought him home..

BELOW (left): Kindra and Otta, the smallest “equine” she’s ever had in her trailer.

BELOW (right): Otto, thinking “I’m a stallion” after taking his first bite of Ultium Competition ®.

Have questions about your feeding program? Contact one of us today!

Start your foals out right... ...with Purina Ultium Growth!

Call today to set up a feeding trial and get a quote on the products you need.

815.436.8600 25520 Black Road Joliet, IL Just 2 miles west of Rt. 59 on Black Road Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 8-4 • Sun. 10-2

10 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

Does Working Equitation Ring a Bell?

J.P. Giacomini clinic demonstrates the next big thing in equine sports at Sunflower Farms.

by Judy Eftekhar photos by Chuck Swan re you among the riders who think that the A same old, same old dressage, jumping, and Western trail skills are the only avenues open to you in the tradition-bound equestrian world?

Think again—you may not have heard of “working equitation” (or WE) before, but it has recently been introduced in this country.

It could become the next exciting big thing for you and your horse, a fun and challenging way to explore new skills together. Jean Philippe Giacomini, better known as J.P., a master French classical dressage trainer, introduced basic skills and WE obstacles at Sunflower Farms in Bristol, Wisconsin, in March. He also coached horses and riders in dressage and demonstrated his exclusive Endotapping ™ technique to calm and focus horses.

Working equitation, which blends dressage foundations with the centuries-old skills needed to herd livestock and overcome obstacles in the field, was established as a competitive discipline in Europe in the 1990s. J.P. designed the original format used for WE in 1996 and recently created the Traditional Horsemanship Association (THA) to govern WE. THA established rules and will hold competitions in various regions.

About that bell—Finnegan, an Irish cross gelding, and Polly Hall learned how to enter the chute, ring the bell and back out of the chute smoothly.

Lance a lot—Tango, a Paint mare, and Crystal Cooper had fun spearing a ring, knocking balls off barrels, and putting pole and ring into a final barrel.

A bridge too near—Fiado, an Andalusian gelding, and Susan Smith took it two steps at a time over the scary bridge.

Gates are good—Lightening McQueenie and Natalie Hinz learned the useful field skill of getting though the gate without letting go of the rope latch.

Cloverleaf pattern—Zorro, an Andalusian-Saddlebred, and Sarah Stannard focused on head carriage and bend as they circle each of three barrels.

Keep calm & carry on—Classic, a Zangersheide Warmblood, and Alec Bozorgi, worked on relaxing and releasing tension to complete a jump course calmly.

Crossing guard—Sabra, a Lusitano mare, and Lori Krenzien made sure they were far enough over the pole to get a good leg crossing the entire way.

J.P. showed Susan Smith how to use Endotapping, his exclusive technique using a specially-designed tool, to help Fiado, an Andalusian gelding, relax and focus.

“The obstacles of each course may be slightly different, so you have to train your horse not to anticipate, but to be responsive to your cues,” J. P. told the riders.

Seven horse and rider partnerships, in groups of three or four, observed by some two dozen auditors, began their WE education with the simplest tasks. Mostly at a walk, they braved the challenges of an arena packed with many of the obstacles encountered in WE competition. Horses included Appaloosa, Lusitano, Paint and pony mares; and Andalusian, Andalusian-Saddlebred and Irish cross geldings. In the private sessions, several Warmbloods in the hunter-jumper and dressage disciplines explored ways in which classical dressage techniques are useful in addressing flatwork issues. Riders included teen hunter-jumpers, adult dressage enthusiasts, and professional trainers.

And about that bell—yes, WE typically involves a bell. The rider must enter a chute, halt, bend over to ring a bell, and then back out of the chute. It was one of the most challenging obstacles J.P. helped horse and rider

MAY/JUNE 2012 partners to master. Another popular challenge involved taking a long pole from a barrel and holding it under the arm like a lance to knock a ball off another barrel, pick up a dangling ring, knock off a second ball, and deposit the ring and pole in a final barrel. “When just starting out, the obstacles can be a little scary,� said J.P. “Each one requires a different set of complex skills you and your horse have to master together, first at the walk and trot, then progressing to the canter. The key is to cut the problem presented by each obstacle into small pieces and learn one part at a time.�

The lance maneuver, while complex, was less intimidating for some than simply standing quietly over a pole—the first step in mastering the lateral skills needed to move sideways, similar to a half pass, over a ground pole, one of the obstacles in competition. J.P. pointed out that the horse should be at a slight angle in the direction of travel, with its front feet well over the pole so it will cross its legs in front of the pole, instead of backing up. Crossing noisy bridges challenged other horse and rider partners. One bridge had a curved top, while the other was flat but tipped like a teeter-totter. “Take one or two steps at a time, stop, then two more steps, stop, then two more. Be progressive, little by little, instead of asking your horse to cross the whole bridge all at once,� J.P. said.

Sunflower Manager Phil May had this to say: “My horse and I have pretty much done everything, and we learned a lot from this clinic. I thought it went very, very well. I saw that the way an English-trained horse negotiates the obstacles is different from how a Western horse does it.�

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 11

About Jean Philippe Giacomini J. P. Giacomini was born in France and studied dressage in Portugal with Mestre NuĂąo Oliveira, He has evented, steeplechased and developed a strong foundation in the French classical dressage tradition.

Later while in England, he trained and coached Olympic eventing competitors and Grand Prix horses and riders, both in dressage and jumping. Known for finding lasting solutions to soundness and behavior problems and for teaching the higher level skills of piaffe and passage, he has also developed a uniquely effective training approach called Endotapping™ to help horses relax and focus. With his wife Shelley, J.P. breeds Luso-Spanish horses and teaches and trains at his stables near Lexington, Kentucky, where he takes a few horses in training. J.P. is the founder and chief executive officer of Traditional Horsemanship Association – Working Equitation. You can contact him at jpgiacomini@gmail.com with any questions about working equitation or training or breeding Iberian horses. For more information, visit www.jpgiacomini.com, www.BaroqueFarmsUSA.com and www.Equus-Academy.com.

THA – Working Equitation, President Janet Tenney: janet1@ttenney.com World Association of Working Equitation (WAWE): www.workequitation-wawe.com Eastern Region Andalusian Horse Club (ERAHC): www.erahc.org To see high energy WE in action, search online for “working equitation� and choose from a large selection of videos.

To learn working equitation skills locally Jill McCrae, Grayslake, Illinois: www.mccraefarm.com; phone 847-546-5164 Mario Contreras: www.mchorsetraining.com; email mctraining@yahoo.com; phone 630-415-9788 Enrique Martinez, Caledonia, Illinois: www.montecristoequestrian.com; email equestremontecristo@hotmail.com

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Other obstacles included opening, going through, and closing a gate; and riding around three closelyplaced barrels in a cloverleaf pattern, with the proper bend.

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Advanced WE competition looks a little like high energy Western trail classes performed at speed. This is because most obstacles are negotiated with the reins in one hand at the collected canter, with precise flying lead changes, which requires agile lateral work and quick turns on the haunches. THA competitions have 5 levels, starting with the walk and trot, all the way to the canter. Competition typically involves three or four phases—a “working dressage� test with prescribed movements; an ease-of-handling obstacle course, where precision and style are judged; an obstacle course where speed is timed; and sometimes a form of team penning (in international competitions).

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Competitive courses vary and, in addition to those introduced at the clinic, might include pole bending forward and/or backward; jumping a bale of hay; and entering a “keyhole�, which involves circling a herd of penned livestock, such as ducks or chickens, exiting, turning quickly on the haunches, then circling the keyhole in the opposite direction.

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Working equitation as a competitive discipline in Europe evolved from the skills needed to herd livestock in the field, including aggressive bulls for arena fighting. The herdsmen depended on and developed the natural propensities of their native horses, Spanish Andalusian and Portuguese Lusitano, for speed and agility. The first countries to stylize the field skills into competitive format were Spain, Portugal, France and Italy, with other European and North and South American countries and a wide range of horse breeds quickly becoming involved.

One aim is to preserve and perpetuate the cultural traditions of each country and its horses, so rider costume and horse tack reflect national heritage. In European competition, Portuguese and Spanish field work costume predominates. In North America, if the rider’s discipline is, for example, Western, riders use Western tack; if it is the Mexican charrería, riders wear Mexican costume; if it is dressage or hunterjumper, riders wear appropriate competition dress and tack.

And there’s more! An open house in April continued the March clinic experience when members of the Lake County Mounted Posse explored working equitation skills. If you missed the open house or the J.P. clinic, Sunflower plans on offering working equitation schooling one day a month to help you and your horse master the next big thing in equestrian sports. For more information, phone 262-857-8555 or visit www.sunflowerfarms.com.

For more information about working equitation:

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12 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

See what’s center stage at Lamplight

by Sandy Kucharski

A

die hard Cubs fan would relish the opportunity to run across home plate at Wrigley Field, just as a devoted country music enthusiast would love to stand on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. The surroundings are awe-inspiring and emanate the history of the events that have taken place in the venue. Whether you find yourself center stage or just in the bleachers, you still feel that special connection.

Lamplight Equestrian Center refers to their facility as “the stage to reach all your dreams,” and that connection to the history and grandeur of the horse world is very evident when you set foot on the grounds.

Located in the heart of the horse-friendly village of Wayne, Illinois, Lamplight is a first-rate, modern horse show facility with 19th century charm. The staff and management have sought to create an environment and show experience with the majesty and excitement of world class equestrian competition.

Lamplight Equestrian center is a fifty six acre complex devoted exclusively to the production of Regional and National equestrian competitions. Located just 35 miles west of Chicago in the scenic Fox River Valley, Lamplight offers its competitors and guests the unique combination of a relaxing and friendly show experience in the center of the midwest’s oldest and largest equestrian community and the close-by convenience of the finest urban amenities in travel, lodging, dining and shopping.

A destination for equestrian competitors for more that fifty years, Lamplight currently hosts between 20 30 horse shows from April to October. The competitions draw competitors from throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Lamplight has been selected as the host site for multiple National Championship Competitions including the American Eventing Championships in 2007, 2008 and 2009, the National Young and Developing Dressage Horse Championships in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Lamplight has proudly hosted the United States Para Equestrian National Championships and the Final Qualification for Para Equestrians at t he 2010 World Equestrian Games.

Most dressage, hunter/jumper and eventing competitors in the area have visited Lamplight at some point in their careers, but the value of this venue for spectators of all kinds should not be overlooked.

The beautifully landscaped grounds boast gardens that bloom throughout the competitive season, and quaint brick walkways connect the various competition arenas and viewing areas. Hundreds of trees shade spectators as well as competitors and help keep it comfortable, even in mid-summer.

Two classic 19th century barns adjacent to the main competition rings have been restored and converted to a show office and food service pavilion. You can stop in for lunch catered by Inglenook Pantry, an upscale

local restaurant, and eat it out on the brick patio within view of both main arenas. For some of the larger events, a second hospitality pavilion is also open for business near Barns A & B. While you can grab a seat on one of many sets of bleachers to catch your favorite event, you can also set a chair up on one of the covered spectator patios.

Visitors will also enjoy the drive in as they pass through the village of Wayne, nestled within the landscape of the Fox River Valley. First settled in 1834, the area has always boasted a rich history tied to horses. In the early 1900’s one of the founding families, the Dunham’s, joined with certain other landowners to convert their farms and woods to a rural residential community with minimum lots of four acres. They created and, have helped maintained private roads and bridle paths. The community still remains one of the few in northeastern Illinois that provides and encourages equestrian uses and facilities.

An access point for Pratt's Wayne Woods Forest Preserve lies directly across from Lamplight Equestrian, and is the cross country venue for all their 3-Day events.

True horsemen can appreciate the beauty of everything equine. Whether you’re a dressage aficiando or a weekend trail rider, you could enjoy a day at Lamplight Equestrian, taking in the beauty of equine athletes performing in a world class setting.

For a full listing of events at Lamplight Equestrian Center visit www.lamplightequestrian.com

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 13

The Perfect Round

by Felicia Clement

Jumping Warmup Time

Q:

How much time is necessary to warm up a horse for jumping? Currently in my lessons we hack around the ring in both directions for no more than 10 minutes including walk time and then we start jumping. Soon after, we are jumping sizeable obstacles. What is an ample amount of time to prepare the horse for jumps?

Although every horse is different, this is a very pertinent question. Many times, especially in hunter barns, some horses are asked to jump too soon without proper preparation. This can happen when lessons are scheduled too tightly together and someone is running late.

A:

Schedules obviously should not dictate what an animal needs to be safe and comfortable in their work. If there isn't enough time on a particular day then there is always tomorrow.

A basic warm up for jumping should at least include–but not be limited to–riding in walk, trot and canter in both directions with tempo changes in all three gaits to ensure the horse's responsiveness and relaxation. It would be ideal to include some general Dressage work with regard to forward, straight and supple and incorporate some leg yielding, patterns such as serpentines, structured circles, and multiple transitions. The more relaxed the horse is–not to be confused with being tired–the better he will jump for you and the easier he will be to ride to the jumps. A stiff and rigid horse is difficult to pilot and it certainly isn't an enjoyable experience.

Given that advice, you should be able to add a few of those suggestions to your warm up and it should not take more than 20 minutes or so. Then you will be using the warm up time efficiently and in a more productive manner with much better results. For example; work on a 20 meter circle with various tempo changes, transitions, and changes of direction would prepare a horse to jump much better than a hand-gallop around the arena.

Additionally, it is important to remember that jumping is a strenuous activity for a horse and a lot of the time they stand in a stall for the majority of the day before coming into the riding arena. If the horse isn't properly "loosened" up for the job at hand than you are potentially compromising his safety and well being.

Horses don't live in a fast paced society. We do. Thank you for the terrific question!

Promote your events FREE of CHARGE! Submit your 2012 calendar dates.

List your calendar items, both in print and online. Email mwhorsesource@gmail.com

Patricia; Wheaton,IL

2 COLT RANCH OPEN HOUSE Saturday, June 2nd - 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Come see our NEW addition and amenities such as: • Large heated indoor arena & heated barn • Numerous paddocks • Large lighted outdoor arena • Grass pastures • 2 hour trail that leaves from the farm • Wash bay • Hot & cold indoor wash bay • Ñew lounge • Onsight ownership & management • Open 365 days a year • Windowed stalls • and much more!

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14 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

Better Safe Than Sorry...

Hot Weather Precautions for Horse & Humans ummer is on its way. Along with warm weather Sstresses comes potentially serious health hazards. Heat affect both humans and animals alike.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of heat stress will help protect your horses as well as your barn employees.

Heat Stress is a signal that says the body is having difficulty maintaining its narrow temperature range.

The heart pumps faster, blood is diverted from internal organs to the skin, breathing rate increases, sweating increases, all in an attempt to transfer more heat to the outside air and cool the skin by evaporation of sweat.

If the body can't keep up, then the person suffers effects ranging from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and finally to heat stroke.

Safety Tips for your Horse Life provided by

• Drinking water frequently (every 15-30 minutes— about a glassful) • Resting frequently • Eating lightly • Doing more strenuous jobs during the cooler morning hours • Utilizing the ventilation or fans in enclosed areas • Allowing time to gradually adjust to heat conditions (1-2 weeks) initially and after vacations • Avoiding heavy alcohol consumption. Many cases of heat stroke have occurred the day after a "night on the town."

• Wearing light colored, cotton clothes

Heat Cramps are usually caused by performing hard physical labor in a hot environment. These cramps have been attributed to an electrolyte imbalance caused by sweating. It is important to understand that cramps can be caused by both too much and too little salt. Recent studies have shown that drinking commercially available carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids can be effective in minimizing physiological disturbances during recovery (OSHA, 2008).

Heat Exhaustion is a very serious concern for employees. The symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, vertigo, weakness, thirst, and giddiness. Fortunately, this condition responds readily to prompt treatment. Heat exhaustion should not be dismissed lightly. Workers suffering from heat exhaustion should be removed from the hot environment and given fluid replacement. They should also be encouraged to get adequate rest. (OSHA, 2008).

Check out our website:

www.midwesthorsesource.com

Heat Stroke occurs when the body's system of temperature regulation fails and body temperature rises to critical levels. This condition is caused by a combination of highly variable factors, and its occurrence is difficult to predict. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The primary signs of heat stroke are confusion; irrational behavior; loss of consciousness; convulsions; a lack of sweating (usually); hot, dry skin; and an abnormally high body temperature. If a worker shows signs of possible heat stroke, professional medical treatment should be obtained immediately.

(OSHA, 2008) To effectively protect your workforce from heat stresses, you should implement the following work practices in extreme temperatures:

Hot weather doesn't stop with employees at your farm. Horses are just as susceptible to the heat as humans. Heat stroke can happen to horses whether they are working hard, standing in stuffy stables, or travelling in trailers. Call a vet and take immediate action if your horse exhibits any of these symptoms: • Elevated respiration in an inactive horse (normal range is 4 to 16 breaths per minute).

• Elevated pulse in an inactive horse, pulse that does not drop after several minutes, or climbs once exercise has stopped.

• Profuse sweating or no sweating at all.

• Elevated body temperature above 103F. • Irregular heart beat known as ‘thumps.’

• A depressed attitude.

Dehydration. Test for this by observing your horse’s flanks. If they look caved in, he is probably dehydrated. Pick up a pinch of skin along your horse’s neck. If the skin snaps back quickly, the horse is sufficiently hydrated. If the pinched area collapses slowly, the horse is dehydrated.

Summertime can be the most enjoyable time of the year on the farm. But extreme heat can also make it the most dangerous. By following the best practices and keeping an eye out for the signs and symptoms listed above, we will have a safe and productive summer.

REFERENCES: www.OSHA.gov; Keep Your Horse Cool in Hot Weather Strategies to Prevent Heat Stroke In Horses and What to Do If It Happens, Katherine Blocksdorf 2012, About.com; (Blocksdorf, 2012)

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MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 15

Living the dream...

SPOTLIGHT ON HORSE KIDS Name: Ashley Guidry

Age: 17

Home: Elkhorn, WI

Spring Willow Farm What are your favorite horse activities? Cross Country (X-C) jumping and gallop sets in the field.

Tell us about the horse(s) in your life? My first horse was a 9 month old German Riding Pony filly (Mercedes, aka Sadie). Shortly after we bought her, we bought another pony for me to learn to ride and jump on (Sophie). After 3 years of riding and competing Sophie, we sold her and I began to break and train my filly Sadie. Sadie is now 6 and has had amazing success in the Eventing and Dressage world.

How long have you been involved with horses and how did your involvement start? My Mom grew up with horses and my aunt has always had horses, so since I was 3, I would ride her 12HH pony when I went to visit. After we moved from Colorado to Wisconsin, I began doing pony camps a couple times a summer in Janesville, WI. It wasn't until 2005 I started to take lessons and become serious about riding. I'm not exactly sure why I decided to become an Eventer, but I've always wanted to jump horses.

Bring your horse ... for boarding, jumping, training, trail riding or retirement.

We love them all!

• 10 minutes north of the Illinois state line • All day grass turnout on large pastures, 365, weather permitting

What horse related clubs/organizations do you belong to? USEA, USDF, USEF, IDCTA

• Exclusive private setting with only 25 horses

What would an ideal day be for you? An ideal day(s) would be to spend a weekend with my horse at a competition with perfect, beautiful weather the entire weekend.

• 200 x 175 outdoor ring

What is your biggest challenge? As of right now my biggest challenge is trying to build confidence in Sadie on the XC courses. We just moved up a level and are having a few problems in XC, but I just had a competition in California and she was amazing on XC, so the challenge may be over for now, but with a young mare there are always new challenges around the corner.

How do you finance your hobby? Over the years I have saved up money from birthdays and holidays to help finance shows, board and lessons. A few years I have worked off my board on Sadie and Sophie, when I had her, during the summer months. I have applied for scholarships, but have not been lucky enough yet to get one.

What other activities/interest are you involved in? During the winters when I give Sadie time off after the show season, I like to go to the local ski hill to snowboard with my friends.

What famous horse or horseman would you like to meet? I have met the O'Connors, Buck Davidson, Jan Byyny and Leslie Law - I would like to meet Jose Ortelli of Argentina - I think training overseas would be fun and exciting.

What is your most memorable horse-related moment? Any time my horse or I learn or figure out something new is always an amazing memorable thing for me.

Besides that, I'd have to say winning AEC's in Georgia when my Dad's family came from Louisiana to watch me ride for the very first time.

What have horses taught you? They have taught me so much about themselves, my riding, horse skills and even life skills and how to cope and deal with situations in life. Most of all patience and understanding.

What grade are you in, and what are your plans for the future? I'm currently a Junior in High School. I am doing online schooling and will continue online through the summer so I can graduate early ( Dec 2012). My future plans are a little bit in the air as of right now. I have many different plans and ideas, but they mainly depend on Sadie. If she is competing well and is ready to move up another level, I'll take a year off from school to compete and train. If I feel she and I need a break, I'll go to college and possibly breed Sadie to a good Dressage, Jumper, Hunter or Eventing stallion.

What have you learned through your experiences? I've learned many things, but the big one is, that even when things are tough and scary, if you just push through and work hard, it pays off in the end and it will always work out no matter how long it takes. You just need to be patient and work hard and be positive about everything.

• 70 x 150 heated indoor • Hunter/Jumper training available and trainers welcome

Spring Willow trainer, Alexis Tantimonico, specializes in hunter/jumpers.

Be in the ribbons with her at Midwest A and B shows this summer!

• 100 acres: trails through uplands, lowlands, wetlands, woodlands, ponds, fields • Open 7 days, owners on premises

Give us a call at 262-878-1288 Location: Hwy 45, 3 Ω miles North of Hwy 50, Kenosha County.

www.SpringWillow.com

16 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

Day Tripper...

ons within an easy driv e from home.

Trail Ride destinati

by Julie Kneip

Location: Trails: Fees: Amenities:

48W524 Jericho Rd., Big Rock, IL Turf, dirt & crushed limestone/gravel None - Kane County Paved Parking, latrines

ig Rock is an 842 Acre preserve located just 3.5 miles west of Route 47 and part of the Kane B County Forest Preserve system. This is a fairly new acquisition of Kane County's but there is no indication of exactly how long it has been open to the public. It does have paved parking in two separate lots and the standard latrines at each.

One of the pluses here is that it is at the confluence of two waterways; Welch Creek and the Big Rock Creek. Water, water, everywhere but the only place I

Julie Kneip resides in St. Charles. She is a long time member of Fox Valley Saddle Association in Hampshire, IL, currently serving on the board of directors. A life long horsewoman, her equestrian experiences include western pleasure, speed, jumping and dressage. She also had a commercial driving business with teams of Belgians and Warmbloods doing parades, private parties and weddings. Currently she can be found enjoying a little Arab mare, “Breezy,” out on the trails of Northern Illinois at every opportunity.

Big Rock Forest Preserve

found potable water was on the Map Legend. I never leave home, though, without a container of water in the trailer. I just use an inexpensive five gallon container, but it has come in handy not only when there is no water available but on occasion the water is a good hike from the trailer parking. Also, some horses hesitate to drink 'strange' water and having water from home will increase the probability that they will stay well hydrated while you're away.

I found there was a good mix here of woods and prairie trails - flat for the most part. While much of it was turf, I found there was enough limestone and gravel that I would not ride there without a shod horse.

Depending on the time of year, you should find an abundance of wildflowers. I saw a number of hikers, mostly by Siegler Lake, an old quarry where there was quite a bit of activity. Fishing is permitted. There is a

Highlight of the ride...a suspension bridge! trail all the way around the lake with pretty views, and a couple of concrete bridges but for the most part the trail is gravel. As near as I can tell from the maps and the sparse signage, horses are allowed around the lake.

While the preserve does have over 800 acres of land, if you look at the map, it is a strange configuration. It was obviously obtained piece by piece over time and includes some designated wet land and natural areas. There is a good sized piece on the south side of Jericho Rd., but there is no access to it and no trails. The vast majority of the acreage is undeveloped and there are approximately 3.41 miles of maintained trails. Signage was slim to non-existent, making staying on the marked trail very difficult. There are two good sized paved parking areas, but no specifically designated equestrian parking.

But there was a specific reason I was attracted to this forest preserve. I had heard there was a suspension bridge over the creek. I have been over a lot of things, but never a suspension bridge, so being of the adventurous sort, I couldn't wait to give it a try. This isn't like a swinging little bridge in the jungle that sways from side to side; far from it. I'm guessing it was about 100' + long, so it was quite a wide span, but the footing was very sturdy and secure with sides high and solid enough that a horse wouldn't attempt to go over them.

My little mare was thinking “no way Jose’” when I first walked her up to it, but I took my time and just when I started thinking I might have to dismount and lead her over it the first time, she took her first step.

Generally speaking, that first step will determine your continued success or lack thereof! She found it hard and sturdy and didn't seem to mind the noise of her hoof on the surface. The first step was quickly followed by the next and we continued without any hesitation on her part although she was on full alert every step of the way. I think she could feel it moving slightly, but I didn't. When I asked her for a whoa midbridge so I could snap a couple of pictures, she didn't think stopping at this point was a very good idea and clearly her plan to was to get off this thing as quickly as possible.

Drivers - I think you will find enough trails mowed and wide enough for driving and the bridge will accommodate at least a pony cart. I would definitely go take a gander before you go, because there is little room to drive without crossing the bridge. It depends how adventurous you are.

It may take some years before this becomes a destination ride, but if you want the challenge of a bridge, this is certainly the spot. Whether you get a group together and organize a ride and picnic, or maybe you prefer to just enjoy your horse on the trails alone - get out there! We have so many wonderful places to ride with awesome trails - go find your favorite!

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 17

From the Side of the Trail Back in the saddle again!

by Kandee Haertel The Lady so unexpectedly and sudLmyosing denly was crushing to me. She had been riding partner and therapist for 25 years.

How could I continue? Very fortunately I have been blessed with a superior group of horsey friends who not only had an understanding of what I was going through, but who also understood that I needed to get back into the saddle again as soon as reasonable.

About three weeks after The Lady’s passing, my friend Linda all but demanded that I ride her sweet mare Maggie. It was really difficult for me. I really liked Maggie and wanted to ride her, but it also meant that I would ride in the indoor arena. The indoor was the same place was where The Lady spent her last hour. This was not a place where I wanted to ride. That did not stop Linda who, still using a cane from her recent hip replacement surgery, insisted to the point where she was helping me saddle up. How could I say no? I did not. Riding Maggie reinforced how much I wanted to be in the saddle and really missed having a horse of my own. By the time I finished that ride, I had tears in my eyes from the remembrance of the times spent with The Lady, but also faced the realization that there must be another horse in my life.

As for what I wanted in my new horse, I was pretty open. It would be a Paso Fino. As far as the “shopping area”, it had to be within a day’s drive of home. I have a personal preference for mares, but was definitely open to having a gelding as my new riding partner.

After many days of frustrating Internet searches, I went out to the Paso Fino Horse Association’s website and found the current chair of the Great Lakes Region. A couple of telephone calls and emails resulted in the recommendation that I contact a certain farm an hour or so south of St. Louis. That was 425 miles from home. That recommendation may have been good, but it was a long way to travel. I contacted several other farms in the region with little or no results from emails or telephone calls. I was very disheartened, to say the least. If these people wanted to sell a horse, why would not they call/contact me back? Okay. I made the decision to make a several day road trip and contacted the distant farm.

What a difference this contact made! After speaking with the farm owner and an in depth review of their website, I arranged to visit the Hacienda de Molinero in Farmington, Missouri. What a visit that turned out to be! Friendly, professional, and fun. I rode fabulous horses that were suited to me.

I felt very welcome and at home. Each horse I rode had elements of what I was looking for in my next riding partner. The staff was excellent at matching my wishes to the horses they offered for sale.

After my recent frustrating experiences with horse shopping, visiting this farm was like a dream come true. They were people who cared about their horses and wanted to match the right owners and horses together.

After a few rides, it was apparent that Suzanna and I should become riding partners. This twelve-year-old bay mare tugged at me. She is a lot of horse, but she and I seemed to click. The deal was struck and now she is part of my life.

Suzanna was delivered to Horsepower Farm on March 22, 2012. I remembered her as a wonderful horse who would very likely become my riding partner, but was actually a rather plain bay mare. When she stepped quietly off the trailer that day I was surprised at how pretty she actually was. When I rode her for the prepurchase exam, she was totally awesome. I was absolutely in heaven. The video that David took that afternoon shows me grinning from ear to ear.

By the time you read this, several weeks will have passed since that day. Suzanna remains in the “awesome” category. Every time I play with her, we gain new understandings about each other. Because she began her stay at Horsepower in “new horse quarantine” I had much time to simply bond together and learn to ride her properly so that she understands my cues and I understand more of how she is responding. While we have had some “interesting” conversations, we are really coming to an understanding of each other.

While we are getting to know each other, I spend a lot of time simply sitting in the outdoor arena and letting her be at liberty. She wanders around, trimming the grass growing near the edges of the ring, occasionally calling to the other horses, and, best of all, checking in with me for scratches and rubs every few minutes. One time she wanted to impress two of the horses coming in from a trail ride and she went running and bucking around and around the arena. I noticed two things during that episode – the best was that she never came near me when her antics were extreme and the second was that she possessed that particular extra twist of her rear quarters that a good bucking horse has. It was the moment I learned that if she wanted to buck me off, she certainly could do so easily.

Being unseated from her is not a worry for me. This well trained and very, very experienced mare has been shown, extensively trail ridden, and taken on camping trips during her twelve years, as well as having given birth and mothering two beautiful foals. (I almost bought her daughter.) When I began ground work with her, she already knew so much that we progressed rapidly. I have found some sticking points, but really nothing to be uneasy about. Probably our biggest problem is that I cannot get her to leave me. As soon as she has come into me, she stays with me.

What an awful problem to have! Yes, I understand that I also need to easily send her away, but after owning a difficult to catch horse for 25 years, this is a good problem to have. Yes, I also understand that when Suzanna’s herd contains one horse (or more) than just me, this picture could change significantly.

However, I am going to enjoy this closeness and companionship while I can.

By the time you read this, Suzanna and I will have experienced our first few trail rides.

I have a good friend on a steady mount ready to accompany us. To say that I am excited is an understatement. I cannot imagine that this super horse with her wonderful gait will let me down. Hopefully, I will see some of you on the trail again very soon!

Gaited Horse Trainer • Clinics • Private Lessons Tennessee Walking Horses for Sale Jim Walker 847/287-5280 jim@jimwalkertraining.com 301 Clyde Gleaves Rd., Wartrace, TN 37183

18 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

The Winning Edge

WHEN WINNING DOES MATTER

© 2012 by Jennifer Lindgren

7 Mistakes Every Horse Owner Makes Cheval Bleu, llc www.Chevalbleuranch.com 630-643-0822 or 219-689-1881

I was once told by a self proclaimed horse trainer that not everyone could train a horse. I completely disagree. Every time you handle a horse, you are training it, whether you intend to or not! Most of the bad habits acquired by horses are the direct result of well intentioned behavior by their owners. The horses have actually been trained to behave improperly. Horses are clever and size up a handler very quickly. They learn who they can control and who takes control. if you keep your horses with a professional trainer or work them yourself, you can improve your relationship with your horse by eliminating these 7 mistakes.

1

. Misunderstanding how horses think, react, and learn. Horses do not think like we do. Even though they are domesticated, the predator/prey mentality that governs the herd still causes them to react, not reason. Their life is based upon a few simple principles: a full belly, avoiding discomfort, seeking pleasure, and not being a lion's lunch. Horses will avoid work if possible and eat whenever possible.

They seek strong, fair, sensible leadership. The most successful horsemen are patient, kind, firm and consistent. Understanding their nature can help eliminate a lot of human error. The more you learn about horse nature, the better you relationship with them will become. Helpful articles are available online, take the time to read them.

2

. Lack of Patience. Proper training takes lots of time, flexibility, and a sense of humor. Shortcuts always backfire and end up costing more in time than they save. No single technique works on every horse. The fine tuning needed to win in the show ring may require 20 different approaches before your horse “gets it”. A trail horse may have to approach an obstacle from 30 different angles before it stops being threatening. Horses learn by repetition and if you don't have the patience to repeat the same exercise a minimum of 100 times, buy a ready made winner and leave the hard work to the true horseman.

3 Ride 400 acres of trails through forest, hay meadows and ravines!

Barn lounge, w/kitchen & shower Brand New Stalls • Wash Rack Heated Indoor Arena • Daily turnout Laid back environment • Newark, IL Owner/Manager - Joa Bright Primary: 630/774-0042 Secondary: 815/695-9955 www.brighterdazefarm.com Email: info@brighterdazefarm.com

. Inconsistency. Your cues, timing and temperament all have to be rock steady. Professional trainers are more successful at teaching than you are because they have perfected their technique. A horse interprets your cue in three ways: timing, location, and intensity. Be consistent and be fair. Make it easy for your horse to understand what you want, ask for the same thing, in the same way, every time. Most importantly, reward them with a release of pressure every time they show compliance.

Changing anything changes the cues. Even a saddle pad change may alter the way the horse feels your weight and legs.

4

. Over or Under reactions. Horses live in a world of action and reaction. Horses have no idea what we want from them, they figure it out from our reactions to their behavior. Under-reactions are just as harmful as over-reactions. If you horse nips you and you don't send a strong message that it is unacceptable, he begins to think that nipping is allowed and you soon fall beneath him in the pecking order. A good rule of thumb is to base your reaction on the severity of the behavior, starting with the least amount of pressure (punishment) that it takes to alter the behavior. If you are having a bad day, relax your frustrations by cleaning a stall or polishing your silver. Over reactions such as harsh punishments, harsh bits and rough hands will create a horse who expects extreme pressure and painful treatment. In the ring, these horses are easy to spot because they are always unhappy.

5

. Unrealistic Expectations. Focus on what your goal truly is. Do you want your horse to excel at what is right for him or do you want to win in a particular division? Your horse may not be physically and mentally capable of performing the job you have chosen for him. Horses are now bred to be specialists. Reiners have a hard time jumping. Halter horses aren't always built for riding. If you continually struggle to reach your goals, have a specialist in your discipline evaluate the potential for you and your horse.

Reach 10,000 horse enthusiasts with your message.

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6

. Treating a Horse Like a House Pet. Treating a horse like a dog or a cat is dangerous. Whenever I see an ad that says “Follows you around like a puppy dog”, I shudder. While I want a horse that has bonded with me, I recognize that a horse should know the difference between his space and mine.

Do not feed them by hand, let them rub on you, or chase you around. If your horse leans against you to be scratched, push him off quickly and say “no” firmly. A 1,000 lb. horse can easily pin you against a wall or throw you off balance, leading to serious injury. With horses, a pound of prevention is always necessary.

7

. Too Much food, Too Many Supplements. Maintaining your horse's health is a top priority. A fat horse is not a fit horse. Too much energy in feed and supplements can lead to health problems. It can also be a waste of money. Get veterinary advice prior to adding a supplement. Many add unneeded energy and lead to behavioral problems. Overweight horses are rarely good movers because the extra weight on joints can cause arthritis and lameness. Choosing a balanced feed with controlled carbohydrates and added vitamins is your best bet to maintaining a healthy horse.

We are all truly blessed to work with our magnificent horses. And as long as we remember they are a horse, not a human, that relationship can be a healthy, safe, enriching, loving and fulfilling

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 19

Horse Werks

by Carolyn Kakuska

Training Tips for all Disciplines

A Good Rider Can Ride Any Horse

E

verybody knows apples and oranges are different, but if you take a minute and think about it apples and oranges may have more in common than you realize. Apples and oranges both grow on trees, they are both fruits, and they are both good for you. The same comparison can be made between the different disciplines of riding. All the disciplines use the same seat position, they all keep their hands in the same centered position and count on the use of feel to direct the horse, and they all keep their legs under them for support and balance.

English and western riders outwardly look different because of the saddles they use. Some examples of English saddles are hunt seat, dressage, and cut back saddles. And there are about ten different types of western saddles.

Western pleasure, reining, and cutting saddles are a few examples. There are even differences in the categories of English and western. But, regardless of all the different types of saddles the reality is the position of the rider’s seat should be the same.

This universally accepted seat position is referred to as the Classical Seat.

A position first talked about in the Art Of book Xenophon-The Horsemanship written in 360 B.C. The classical seat has been long acknowledged as the correct riding position for all riding disciplines. In this position an imaginary line can be drawn from the ear to the shoulder. The line should continue from the shoulder down thru the hip to the heel. In this position the rider is exceptionally secure and has precise balance. This seat position generates various advantages for both the horse and rider. For example, a rider with a secure seat

will have better control of his horse and is consequently safer during the ride. Furthermore, a secure seat promotes comfort, and when a rider is comfortable he is also more confident.

Once this seat is practiced and accomplished it will create harmony and communication between the horse and rider. And most importantly, when the rider has feel in his seat, back and legs he provides the horse the security needed to perform his best.

As the rider develops his seat he also learns to the create energy needed to properly drive the horse, therefore, it now becomes necessary to develop more communication between the horse and the rider. The instrument we use to promote this communication is the rein. The rein is much more important than just a simple strap which connects the horse’s mouth to the rider. It is the absolute way the rider gracefully and elegantly maneuvers the horse. It is not important whether you choose to ride with one or two hands because the softness and feel will be the same. The position of the upper arm, elbow, forearm and hand will prove to be critical in order to achieve the desired balance and symmetry of the horse.

The upper arm and elbow should be in a comfortable vertical position under the shoulder of the rider.

Placing the upper arm and elbow either in front of or behind the vertical position will disrupt the balance of the rider. It will shift the rider’s weight either forward or back depending on which direction the arms are extended or pulled. This disruption of balance will cause the rider to interfere with the movement of the horse. The posi-

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tion and stability of the forearm is equally as important. If you start from the rider’s elbow moving forward through the forearm draw an imaginary straight line to the horse’s mouth with the rein. The wrists should be kept straight and thereby avoiding twisting and bending. The thumbs are upward and the fingers are soft so as to allow the greatest amount of feel for the horse as possible.

Maintaining this position will develop the rider’s sensitivity to the horse’s mouth and in turn the horse’s mouth will become more sensitive to the rider’s hands. There should never be excessive pressure or pull given by the hands. It is critical to maintain contact during the ride. However, it is important to note the difference between contact and excessive pulling. An experienced horse ridden by an experienced rider with a secure seat will be able to have less pull and pressure than a rider with a weaker seat. This is because the rider with the secure seat has good balance and does not need to pull on the horse’s mouth to maintain balance. The educated rider also understands contact is not how tight a rein is held, but rather contact is the lightest amount of pressure necessary to accomplish the task in a free will movement.

Another universally accepted part of maintaining excellent balance in the saddle is for the rider to have proper leg position. Think again about the classical seat for a moment.

Remember that an imaginary line can be drawn from the ear to the shoulder and the line continues from the shoulder down thru the hip to the ankle and heel. If the rider’s seat is in the correct position the legs will be freely posi-

tioned in the correct position. It is not necessary to hold tightly with the legs or knees to keep them in the correct position. Holding or pinching with the legs will inhibit and disrupt the movement of the horse. Over clenching applies too much pressure and will give the horse misinterpreted communication and mistaken signals.

Therefore, the legs should be allowed to hang down under the rider in a natural and relaxed position. The rider’s weight should continue down through the ankle and end in the heel.

This will allow the weight to push the heel down just past the vertical. The rider’s foot should be positioned on the ball in the center of the stirrup so the imaginary line drawn from the ear down through the body will be complete. When put in this location the leg will stay relaxed and will be positioned against the side of the horse allowing the rider to be comfortable, balanced and secure. It also allows the legs to work easily and naturally with the horse.

The difference between the disciplines is best explained by purpose and function rather than style and looks. In a broad view the purpose for the Western rider is ranch work and the sports associated with that work.

This would include rodeo and speed games. The intention of the English saddle and thereby the English rider was to allow freedom of movement for the horse. A horse with an English saddle and rider would be seen in the show ring or even running in a race.

There are by far more similarities between all the disciplines than differences.

20 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

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Sensible Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Mustang Sally Horse and Pet Sitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Derby Fence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Sommers Gate Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8, 17 Tri-County Stockdale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 D&H Ag. The Country Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Dover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Merritt & Associates Equine Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . .12

SERVICES

Robert Morris University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Wilson’s Fencing Service, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 2 Colt Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 R.A. Adams Enterprises, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Equestrian Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Safety Check, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Golden Gait . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Dover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Spring Willow Farm • One of Kenosha County’s finest equestrian facilities • 10 minutes north of the Illinois state line, 25 minutes from Milwaukee or Lake Geneva • All day turnout w/5 ac. pastures • Outdoor/heated indoor rings

• 100 acres: trails through uplands, lowlands, wetlands, woodlands, streams, ponds, fields • Friendly, congenial, adultoriented atmosphere • Hunter/Jumper/Dressage Training available

Open 7 days, caretakers and owners on premises 2002 Hwy 45, Paris Corners, Wisconsin • 262-878-1288

SpringWillow.com

Purina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16, 24

Your Business Card Ad should be here!

TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE CORRAL, send us a business card (either by mail or email a j-peg) and enclose payment:

Jim Walker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Cheval Bleu, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Brighter Daze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 First Class Horse Complex, Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Gremlin Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Kay Feldmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22, 23 Bob Nowak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

3 ISSUES @$105 or 6 ISSUES @$200

Haylo Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Please make checks payable to:

Marsha Icko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

KUCHARSKI PUBLISHING

Joe Harry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

QUESTIONS:

Call Sandy at 815/568-6772 or

Email: MWHorseSource@gmail.com

Anne Vodicka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Ellyn Dorsey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Sandy Carlson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Karen Klipp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 21

Top 5 ‘My Purina Horse’ Stories This year at the 2012 Midwest Horse Fair in Madison, WI April 2022nd Purina spotlighted Purina fed horses with a story contest.

Stories were requested before the fair and winners were chosen.

Everyone who submitted an entry had their pictures and story on display in the Purina booth for everyone to see and read. Participants addressed the following questions about their horses:

Do you have an incredible horse?

Are you thankful for the product that they eat every day?

Tell us about it!

In addition to being on display, everyone who entered received a FREE bag of Purina Premium Horse Feed and authors of the top five stories received a special prize.

To read more stories, visit ww.purina-midwest.com

GREMLIN FARMS Full Line MAZURI Dealer 815/732-6360 • cell: 847/ 912-7692 • Toll Free: 800/232-7631 1892 S. Chana Rd. • Chana, IL 61015 www.gremlinfarms.com

FREE DELIVERY with min. order.

Top quality Pine Shavings - LOWEST PRICES

22 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

MAY/JUNE 2012

GREENER PASTURES HORSE PROPERTIES

WANTED: Handicapped Riding Program

Find your dream horse property here...

Shop in ‘Greener Pastures’ Gallop before it’s gone!

$349,900 This perfect equestrian retreat is situated on 10+ acres in the town of Brighton, WI. A large 36x63 barn includes six 12x12 stalls and room for 3 more, heated tack room, and running water. Additional features include a 24x36 pole barn, 80x180 outdoor riding arena with lights, 4-board fencing throughout and mature trees. This maintenance-free ranch style home has a functional floor plan, wood burning stove, large bedrooms, 3-season porch, and a huge deck.

Call today for your private tour! MLS #1240325

This is a gorgeous 10 acre horse ranch that has way to many features to list, master bdrm with tray ceilings,living room with cathedral, finished bsmt with real hardwood floors and full size windows, dog grooming area with whelping room, a dream deck with heated pool, surrounded by multiple horse paddocks, and perfect horse barn with two lean too sheds one a kennel the other a equipment shed, a round pen and much, much more this is a must see property, so call today for a private showing. $550,000 Call Bob Nowak 262/620-0391 1st National Real Estate LLCwww.houses1st.com

Joe Harry, Broker Associate 262/945-7355 RE/MAX Premier Properties

Horse Country on a Budget!

Eliminate your horse’s board and build an income also!

Horses or hobbies are perfect for this property. And you will love the house! This well located 6 acres has yesteryear charm and nowadays appeal! Seller is a builder who renovated the house! It boasts hardwood flrs, sep DR, and trayed ceiling in LR. Kitchen has granite counters, w/ plenty of cabinets, movable breakfast bar and opens to sunny breakfast room. Large Mstr, & 3BR & 2Bths. 1st fl BR or Off. New windows, New roofs, New Deck & pool. 12 stall barn w/ feed rm & huge hay mow.

Heated tack room, small indr, & outdr sand arena. Other outbuildings are great for storage of any type. Close to many trail systems. Also permission to ride around 80 adjacent ac. Minutes from I-94 w/Union Grove HS.

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

One of a kind horse property in an awesome location! 16 acres in the heart of Mill Creek, IL with an early 1900’s gorgeous barn with 9 huge stalls. It is not hard to imagine the aristocrats of yesteryear, in this lovely barn! Stable also features a hay mow, wash stall, tack room with wall cabinets, aisle and stall mats, a new roof and a manure dock. Studio apartment opens to overhead walk to check out foaling stall! Heated barn leads to downstairs hay storage and a work out aisle with turn-around on one end, such as the Saddlebreds often used. Plenty of room there to add more stalls and/or another indoor arena - subject to zoning. Gorgeous land with several paddocks and about 5 ac. could be hayed. 1760 SF farm house with big kitchen, 3BR and an office, lst floor laundry, and a detached garage. There is a Spectacular spot for a grand homesite, similar to others in the area! Trainers, breeders, Gentleman farmers, call now, you will love the property!

CONTACT KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

MAY/JUNE 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 23

GREENER PASTURES HORSE PROPERTIES

REALTOR’S CORRAL Your business card should be here!

Contact Sandy for details. mwhorsesource@gmail.com 815/568-6772

Ready for Business!

www.haylofarm.com

•WANTED• Buyers & Sellers of Wisconsin and Illinois Horse Properties.

Who better to help you buy or sell a home for your horse than a horse person with over 40 years of experience?

Please contact Tricia Angell, IL & WI Real Estate Broker, Horse Show Judge and owner of Haylo Farm & Haylo Real Estate, Land & Livestock. cell: 815/440-1739

Rural Elgin

tricia@haylorealestate.com

$285,000 Beautiful vistas and rolling terrain in the 600 acre Burnidge Forest Preserve, which backs up to this secluded home. Right our your back door is access to 9 miles of hiking/multipurpose trails and 2.25 miles for equestrian use.

Views of private Bass Lake grace the front entry where you can fish, swim or canoe. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, finished walk out basement.

Stable nearby, even equestrian camping!

Call Anne Vodicka, Baird & Warner 847-922-5460

Finally an affordable horse property in a great location for your business! This 10.5 ac. property has user friendly A2 zoining and has a 18-20 stall barn and a smaller indoor w/plenty of room to expand! Tack room, feed room and a separate newer 3 1/2 car garage that can be used for storage of hay, grain, shavings or even add more stalls. Plenty of turnout and 3 run in sheds, plus sand outdoor arena. Very nice trails run around property and beside a river, (property is 16 above flood plain) Such a nice farm house that has been updated in the last few years. Well maintained 1700 SF home has 3 BR and 1 Ω bath. Stainless appl. in good size kitchen that opens to the dining area. Back door enters a big mud room and/or basement. It's all there, you do not want to miss this opportunity. May consider some owner financing to well qualified buyer. Great place for a vet clinic or Therapeutic riding program! Kenosha, WI area CONTACT KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

Ambiance of the Caledonia Countryside

On a quiet road with easy access to I-94, these lovely18 acres will be the property that begs you home. Updated home has a designer kitchen w/drop lighting, stone floors, SS appliances and a granite 2 tiered island. Spectacular great room w/floor to ceiling stone fireplace and dramatic foyer. Romantic master, also w/fireplace, huge W/I closet & cabinets throughout. Extraordinary bath with all amenities will wow!

New Norseman building has 10 stalls and an indoor arena (65x160) w/cured limestone base. Paddocks have all been redone w/ PVC or Centaur fencing. Drainage allows for mud free lanes between pastures. Loafing sheds and water to paddocks.

Great location near Caledonia Trail System. Seller must sadly size down, which is your gain! Do not miss! 20 min to airport and just minutes from Amtrak!

Caledonia, WI CONTACT KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry

IOWA DEALERS 1. Horse and Hound Country Store Ltd. Burlington, IA 319/752-6611

DEALER LOCATOR MAP

WISCONSIN DEALERS 1. Premier Cooperative Lancaster, WI 608/723-7023

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2. Premier Cooperative Mineral Point, WI 608/987-3100

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3. Premier Cooperative Mount Horeb, WI 608/437-5536 11

4. Oregon Farm Center Oregon, WI 608/251-9657

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5. Claws 2 Paws Animal Supply LLC Stoughton, WI 608/873-8014

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Horn Bros. Inc. Muskego, WI 262/679-1717

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8. Landmark Services Co-op Elkhorn, WI 262/723-3150

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12. Horn Trevor Feeds Inc. Trevor, WI 262/862-2616

9. Sublette Farmers Elevator Company Sublette, IL 815/849-5222

19. Feed n Time Chebanse, IL 815/697-3231

ILLINOIS DEALERS 1. M and W Feed Service Ltd. Elizabeth, IL 815/858-2412

10. Northern Partners Cooperative Mendota/Triumph, IL 815/5539-1085 11. Brothers Country Supply Ottawa, IL 815/433-3775 12. Midland Crossing Mercantile Newark, IL 815/695-1130 13. D & H Ag. The Country Store See ad page 10 Yorkville, IL 630/553-5826 14. Tri-County Stockdale Co. See ad page 9 Joliet, IL 815/436-8600 15. Ludwigs Feed Store Lemont, IL 630/257-3097 16. Capital Pet Food & Supply Country Club Hills, IL 708/798-4800 17. Most Feeds and Gardens Crete, IL 708/672-8181 18. Andres & Wilton Farmers Grain & Supply Peotone, IL 708/258-3268

20. Earlybird Feed & Fertilizer Goodfield, IL 888/893-3450

3. Woodstock Farm & Lawn Woodstock, IL 815/338-4200 4. Leader Ace Hardware Fox River Grove, IL 847/639-4431 5. Grayslake Feed Sales Inc. Grayslake, IL 847/223-4855 6. Animal Feed and Needs Arlington Heights, IL 847/437-4738 7.

Trellis Farm and Garden LLC St. Charles, IL 630/584-2024

8. Elburn Co-op Feed Store Elburn, IL 630/365-1424

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11. Main Street Country Store Walworth, WI 262/275-0620

2. Cherry Valley Feed and Supplies Inc. Cherry Valley, IL 815/332-7665

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9. Landmark Services Co-op Burlington, WI 800/800-3521 10 Landmark Services Co-op Union Grove, WI 262/878-5720

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6. Frontier FS Cooperative Ixonia, WI 920/261-1718 7.

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21. Paws Claws and Exotics Too Pekin, IL 309/925-3111 22. Country Feed & Supplies Princeville, IL 309/385-3333 23. Reynolds Feed & Supply Reynolds, IL 309/372-4414 24. H&H Feeds Stronghurst, IL 309/924-2521 INDIANA DEALERS 1. Karp’s Garden and Feed Hobart, IN 219/942-2033 2. Crown Feed & Supply, Inc. Crown Point, IN 219/663-0139 3. Leo’s Feed and Garden Cedar Lake, IN 219/374-6757