The
Eloquent Equine Issue No. 11
CROSSING DISCIPLINES BUILDING STRONGER RIDERS THROUGH CROSS-TRAINING
EXTREME
COWBOY RACING THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE
THE ONTARIO BITLESS ORGANIZATION PRESENTS
GOING BITLESS WHY SOME RIDERS ARE SAYING GOODBYE TO THEIR BITS
WINNING IN KENTUCKY
THE 2015 RETIRED RACEHORSE PROJECT’S $100,000 THOROUGHBRED MAKEOVER
PLUS UPCOMING OBO EVENTS, THE NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP TRADESHOW, AND MORE!
CONTENTS SPOTLIGHT 04 Winning in Kentucky Victory at the 2015 Retired
Racehorse Project’s $100,000 Thoroughbred Makeover
08 Going Bitless Why some riders are ditching the bit, and upcoming OBO shows
12 Natural Horsemanship Tradeshow Learn more about Natural
Horsemanship May 28-29, 2016
19 Jump Cross
A new discipline is born.
20 Why should kids have all the fun? Equestrian summer camp ... for adults.
THE ESSENTIALS 22 Crossing the Disciplines
FEATURED
14 Introducing Extreme Cowboy Racing
26 Tricked Out Build the bond with some fun, out
The ultimate challenge for horse and rider
Building better riders through cross training.
of the box, training activities
Editor’s Desk We may still be in the grips of winter, but spring is just around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about green pastures, summer sun, and show season. I’m super excited about this issue, our first of 2016, and hope you are too. It’s all about trying something new, and with spring just around the corner and New Year’s resolutions not far behind us, this is a great opportunity to learn more about some lesser known equestrian disciplines you may want to try your hand at in the coming year. While we’re always hearing about the “big 3” equestrian disciplines – jumping, eventing, and dressage – there are a lot of other equestrian activities out there that are deserving of your attention as well. We’re especially thrilled to be showcasing some local events and initiatives in this issue, including the Ontario Bitless Organization, which will be running its first ever series of shows this summer (find out more on page 08). Plus hear from Lindsey Partridge, of Partridge Horse Hill in Pontypool, about her win at the 2015 Retired Racehorse Project’s $100,000 Thoroughbred Makeover. You also don’t want to miss our article on cross-training, including how introducing classical principles and gymnastics can improve your performance. Part two of our equitation series takes a look at principles in practice and how disciplines are coming together to build better riders. In case you missed part 1, you can check it out in Issue No. 9, Training. So sit back, stay warm, and enjoy! Happy reading.
Editor In Chief Krista Rivet
Contributors Lindsey Partridge, Jesse Cassidy-Skof, Diana Nikov, Laura Boyle, Stephanie Jensen, Jordan Thompson
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On the Cover:
The Eloquent Equine is a quarterly publication, producing four full issues a year.
Jesse Cassidy-Skof aboard High Flyin’ Zeppelin representing the Ontario Bitless Organization in competition.
Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
Photo by Walter Skof
The Eloquent Equine • 3
WINNING IN KENTUCKY LINDSEY PARTRIDGE
I
n January of 2015 I heard about the Retired Racehorse Project’s $100,000 Thoroughbred Makeover. A competition designed to spur some interest and rejuvenation into off the track Thoroughbreds - to take these horses from the sport of kings and turn them into kings of sport. I immediately got very interested – I’d retrained many off the track Thoroughbreds already, including my first bridleless demo and jumper ‘Killarney to Here’ aka Thetis. I loved the idea of competing in this prestigious event for so many reasons: • I love Thoroughbreds • I love retraining horses and giving them a new purpose (check out my Horse Rescue information at partrigehorsehill.com) • I visited Kentucky Horse Park a couple times and always wanted to compete there • I would love to show that Harmony Horsemanship works • I would be turning 30 just two days after the makeover competition - what a perfect goal to finish my twenties I decided to buy two horses for the makeover – I figured if I was going to spend the money and time training for the competition that I may as well have two horses. That way if one ended up with an injury I would have a backup horse. Within a couple weeks I had bought two horses off of their Facebook photos/video. I wanted to find flashy horses that were sound and injury free, but I didn’t care much about what they were best suited for
Spotlight • Hindquarter Control
because I was willing to change my discipline to suit the horse. The first horse I picked up, “Soar” aka Kahleesi, is a 2007 grey mare with 4 white socks and a blaze from Ontario. When I brought her home I knew she was going to special because she seemed very smart, energetic, responsive, and athletic. The second horse I picked up, “Lion of Wallstreet” aka Cupid, is a 2008 chestnut gelding with 3 socks and a blaze from Ohio. I picked him up right at the Mahoning Racetrack. He had finished racing just 3 weeks prior to me buying him. When I brought him home I knew he was going to need some work – his health was not great (bad teeth, worms, underweight), and he wasn’t as athletic as Kahleesi.
Despite having no indoor arena, I made the best of it and worked in the round pen in the snow when the footing was decent enough. Because the footing wasn’t great, we didn’t start much riding or canter work for a couple months.
I began training my horses right away – I started with their A, B, C’s of harmony horsemanship both on the ground and in the saddle. I put a focus on getting my horses connected to me because at first we had no trust.
In May and June I started to take my horses to clinics so they could have positive off property experiences. This was really important because it meant they could travel off property but focus on learning, not showing.
I use harmony horsemanship because it is a technique that teaches an understanding of yourself, your horse, and the language we use with horses.
I then started to dabble in different shows. I decided to try obstacle showing and competed in the Natural Horsemanship Association’s Horse Agility and Obstacle shows.
It’s the perfect combination of natural horsemanship mixed with centered riding and body awareness so you can discover harmony with horses (learn more at www.harmonyhorsemanship. ca).
Horse agility is when you ask your horse to complete tasks or obstacles while on the ground (not riding) - it’s similar to dog agility where you complete a course of obstacles.
All Photo(s) | Megan Stapley Photography
Lindsey Partridge has been coaching and training horses since 2002. She is a Level 1 Centered Riding Coach, Level 4 graduate of Finesse/Freestyle in Parelli, Equine Canada Rider Level 8, Natural Horsemanship Association Platinum Level Coach/Trainer, and Certified Coach of Ontario. Learn more about her at www. partridgehorsehill.com
The Eloquent Equine • 5
Obstacle challenges are similar to horse agility except that you are riding. There are different variations that may focus on speed, how well you complete the obstacles, how many obstacles you can complete, etc. I enjoy taking my horses to a variety of these shows because it really helps to get them thinking through courses and connected to me - they usually involve some sideways, backing up, or other tasks that your horse really needs to stop and think their way through (learn more about the NHA horse agility and obstacle shows at www.nhassociation.ca). I started to consider showing my horses in Trail and Freestyle rather than jumping. The trail event in Kentucky would be an American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) event. There were no events in Ontario so I chose one in New York that wasn’t too far away. It was my first time competing in an ACTHA obstacle challenge and trail class. The obstacle challenge was very similar to the obstacle shows I had been trying in Ontario so my horses were well prepared. The trail challenge was very fun and different; we rode 6 miles doing a different judged obstacle at every mile along the trail. It was after this competition (in August) that I decided I would show my horses in Trail and
Freestyle because it was fun and something both my horses could do. The rest of the season I continued to participate in clinics and compete in obstacle shows including Extreme Cowboy Racing – which I totally fell in love with and plan to continue competing in. Both of my horses ended up doing really well and Kahleesi qualified for Regional championships in Extreme Cowboy Racing. Everything seemed to be going well until Kahleesi ended up with an abscess making her lame just a few weeks before Kentucky. This meant I had to withdraw her from the Regional Championships and some other competitions. I had the vet and farrier coming up to the farm to try different things. All of my horses are barefoot and we use hoof boots if they need extra protection for riding. However, I am open to alternate care methods. I had Kevin Alcock come out to look at Kahleesi. Kevin has a lot of experience with lameness and hoof issues. He immediately spotted the stressed areas on the hoof, fixed the balance and recommended we try shoes with an acrylic bottom to help hold her hoof together. It worked. She was finally sound just days before competition. Luckily the trail competition is not too physically demanding (compared to other disciplines like eventing) so she was still able to compete. The competition took place October 23-25th at Kentucky Horse Park. The first day I competed in trail. My horses were amazing – I don’t even think they knew they were in a show because the atmosphere was so relaxed. It was a 6 mile ride through Kentucky Horse Park at a leisurely pace. The obstacles we were well prepared for and included riding hills, over a bridge, over a tarp, dragging a log, backing up a bank, and
Spotlight • Winning in Kentucky
my favourite was riding through the Rolex water. Cupid finished 1st and Kahleesi 2nd – I was so excited that my horses did so well and would be riding in the finals (the top 3 from each discipline rode in the finals). On the second day I competed in freestyle. Cupid was first into the ring. We shocked the crowd with our obstacle routine which included jumps, a tarp, flag, pole pivots and even a green ball. With Kahleesi I played up her versatility. I showed barrel racing, trail, jumping, and roping skills. I even did a little bridleless riding. I couldn’t have done it without the ‘PHH paddock crew’ to set up all the obstacles. Cupid finished 10th and Kahleesi tied for 2nd. This meant Kahleesi would ride twice in the finals. On the last day was the finale. During the Thoroughbred parade we received our medals. Then we rode. First was my trail finals – I rode Cupid and Kahleesi one at a time through an arena obstacle course. Kahleesi aced the competition. Cupid was also great but he had a bit of a spook at the camping tent when the person came out of it. Kahleesi ended up 1st and Cupid finished 2nd. I was thrilled. Later I rode my freestyle finals with Kahleesi. She was awesome and did everything right. There was a bit of a mix up with my music and the wrong song was played so I didn’t end up doing as much bridleless riding as planned, but alas it was still great and we finished 3rd. Lastly all the discipline winners entered the arena for the final award. To my surprise Kahleesi
was named America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred. Tears rolled down my face as I hugged my horse with joy. What an absolute dream come true. After the win Kahleesi received a lot of attention appearing in many news articles, on radio, TV, at demonstrations at the Royal Winter Fair, and was signed to be part of the movie ‘Unbridled’ being filmed in 2016. In 2016 I plan to continue competing Extreme Cowboy Racing with Kahleesi. Cupid I ended up selling to be a trail/ pleasure horse because he didn’t enjoy showing the same way Kahleesi does – I get to see his updates on Facebook and know he is doing great. The best part of this experience has been raising awareness about off the track Thoroughbreds and what a difference using harmony horsemanship can make. Winning or not, competing at the Thoroughbred Makeover was an experience of a lifetime – an experience I plan to try again in 2016. I had planned to train one horse for the makeover but somehow ended up with 3 horses – Gustav a 2 yr. old gelding, Mystique a spotted grey mare, and Pentland a 6 yr. old gelding. You can follow their progress on my Facebook page, Harmony Horsemanship - Lindsey Partridge
Photo(s) | Megan Stapley Photography
Thank you for all your support!
You can learn more about Harmony Horsemanship, my horses, or myself at www. PartridgeHorseHill.com
The Eloquent Equine • 7
GOING BITLESS PRESENTED BY THE ONTARIO BITLESS ORGANIZATION JESSE CASSIDY-SKOF, DIANA NIKOV, & LAURA BOYLE
R
iders from a variety of disciplines will have the opportunity to participate in bitless optional shows this year, thanks to the Ontario Bitless Organization - OBO. Jesse Cassidy-Skof, owner of Nature’s Run Equestrian, founded the Ontario Bitless Organization to end the discrimination against bitless riders, and to encourage riders to decide what is best for their horses without sacrificing their opportunity to show.
Photo | Walter Skof
The OBO, which is currently comprised of 3 facilities in the Durham region, strives to give horses and riders the opportunity to participate in shows with the option of riding without a bit in a variety of disciplines. Students who use bits will not be excluded from this show series, however there will be restrictions on the type of bits used which will include only allowing certain types of snaffles and restrictions on types of shank/leverage bits; no tie downs, martingales of any kind, and no flash nosebands will be permitted unless prior permission is granted from a judge. These shows will prove as an example of the evolution of horsemanship; which is pulling away from the use of gadgets for control and into the understanding of horse behaviour and positive reinforcement techniques. There are many reasons that riders choose to go bitless which include: •
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Different training regimes and ideologies based around horse behaviour, positive reinforcement, and creating motivation Medical reasons for horses with injuries; some horses are unable to take bits Horses with adverse reactions to bits from posttraumatic stress disorder or harsh training Horses who have been started bitless needing show experience before switching to a bit for refinement through the levels
Many coaches, including owner of High Spirits Farm, Laura Boyle, insists beginner riders should start riding lessons bitless. “We believe the bitless bridle for beginner students allows the riders to learn balance and independence of seat without pulling on a bit in the horse’s mouth. Bits are not for brakes, they are for refined communication. At the lower levels of competition, we feel it should be bitless optional in dressage, hunter jumper, and so on.” The OBO wants to celebrate the bond of horse and rider and believes that no team should be excluded from showing; especially not those who are making decisions based on their horse’s well being. This is not to say that all horses can or should go bitless, but the educational decision should be in the owner/ rider’s hands and right now that
decision means you are very limited in terms of show opportunities. The disciplines for the inaugural year of the Ontario Bitless organization show series are as follows:
Hunter/Jumper
Nature’s Run Equestrian These will be geared towards beginner to novice riders, green horses, and those looking to get out over some jump courses in an easy going and supportive environment. Perfect for first time show goers, horse and rider alike, building confidence for nervous horses over fences and having fun in the show ring!
Dressage
High Spirits Farm and Nature’s Run Equestrian These will be based on CADORA, Working Equitation and Western
Dressage tests to be announced before the season begins. These shows are geared towards first time show goers, those returning to the show ring after time off and any green riders or horses looking for a positive and quiet show experience.
Agility and Obstacle Challenges
Nature’s Run Equestrian, High Spirits Farm, and Herd Dynamics These shows consist of a groundwork element based in horse agility followed by a riding element over obstacles. All shows will have a beginner, novice and advanced division consisting of 3 classes (finesse, freestyle and speed); as well as freestyle divisions to allow bridle-less and liberty demonstrations. Photo | Emily Hardman
Working Equitation High Spirits Farm
Here is a little bit of information on our first 3 host facilities:
These shows will be geared towards first time riders in the discipline of Working Equitation. All classes will be taken from Working Equitation Ontario levels for assessment.
Nature’s Run Equestrian
All OBO Members who will be riding bitless, will receive a membership number to keep track of year end points. These points are tallied from each show (by class and division) and will be totalled towards year-end awards. Membership for the 2016 year is free! Just visit our Facebook group page and fill out a membership form to join. Top prizes will be awarded to riders with the most points across: • Hunter/jumper classes/divisions • Dressage tests • Agility tests • Obstacle tests • Working Equitation tests • Across all disciplines Other awards will be given to those showing genuine horsemanship, sportsmanship, and proving to be a positive role model. Champion and Reserve ribbons will be given to the top two competitors of each division across all disciplines
Nature’s Run has a little bit of everything going on, all based on the same ideal; the way of the horse comes first. Natural boarding styles, training techniques, and rehab programs are all built on a foundation through research and development to be for the horse. Every specification is tailored towards each individual horse so they can live the most enriched life possible. Within this model, Natures’ Run has found that starting horses off bitless makes the most sense; staying out of their sensitive mouths while teaching the basics. This allows for relaxed and easy communication later if a bit is chosen to be introduced. This also allows beginner riders a bit of room for error with their hands as they begin to learn their own independent seat, without tearing on their horse’s mouth if they lose balance WWW. or accidentally pull on the rein.
Photo(s) | Walter Skof (Below & Facing bottom) Heather Waugh-Nielsen (Facing top)
High Spirits Farm High Spirits Farm is the little farm with big dreams! “Where we learn, laugh, play and dance with horses” High Spirits believes that a strong foundation built upon good horsemanship is the key to success with horses on the ground and in the saddle, for any discipline. You can count on head instructor Laura Boyle’s professional coaching to help develop your skills, with your horses or hers. High Spirits Farm is conveniently located 20 minutes north of Bowmanville, Ontario. Check out their website for lesson, clinic, and workshop information. It’s going to be an exciting year!
WWW.
Herd Dynamics Herd Dynamics is Durham’s First Equine Assisted Learning Facility, providing non-mounted life skills development programs for women, youth, and school groups. Herd Dynamics is an easy drive, just minutes off of the 401 in Ajax. Diana Nikov, owner and Certified Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator strongly believes that horses make the best teachers both in and out of the saddle. Herd Dynamics also serves as an exclusive boarding facility to a very small number of very spoiled ponies and horses. Herd Dynamics welcomes both riders and non-riders who enjoy spending time with their horses in a safe, welcoming environment. Herd Dynamics is extremely proud of their commitment to equine education and boasts a full calendar of WWW. workshops, clinics, and events aimed at positively enriching the lives of horses and their humans. The 2016 Ontario Bitless Organization show schedule will be as follows: MAY 28TH - OBO Dressage Show #1 at Nature’s Run Equestrian JUNE 11TH - OBO Agility and Obstacle Challenge #1 at Nature’s Run Equestrian JULY 10TH - OBO Working Equitation Show #1 at High Spirits Farm JULY 16TH - OBO Agility and Obstacle Challenge #2 at Herd Dynamics JULY 30TH - OBO Hunter/Jumper Show #1 at Nature’s Run Equestrian
AUG 6TH - OBO Dressage Show #2 at High Spirits Farm AUG 20TH - OBO Hunter/Jumper Show #2 at Nature’s Run Equestrian EARLY SEPT - Journey of Hope Horse Rescue hosts “Celebration of the OTTB” Fundraiser and OBO Unveiling - at Nature’s Run Equestrian (date TBC) SEPT 3RD - OBO Agility and Obstacle Challenge Show #3 at High Spirits Farm SEPT 17TH - OBO Working Equitation Show #2 at High Spirits Farm For information on how to register to show or host a bitless optional event, please contact the OBO Facebook Page:
The Eloquent Equine • 11
NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP
TRADE SHOW
MAY 28 - 29TH, 2016 @ PARTRIDGE HORSE HILL This is the perfect event to learn more about natural horsemanship. This year’s trade show is the weekend of May 28-29 hosted at Partridge Horse Hill in Pontypool, Ontario (near Lindsay/Oshawa). This is an indoor event full of learning about natural horsemanship and horse care. David Cowley from Alberta is coming to teach his ‘Two Way Trust’ methods to student riders, along with Esther Johnston teaching Centered Riding, and Lindsey Partridge teaching Harmony Horsemanship. The trade show will have lessons with student riders throughout the weekend on topics including: Building a foundation, spins and flying lead changes, cowboy dressage, jumping, better posture for riding, building confidence with obstacles, and mastering bridge and water obstacles. There will be many other demonstrations, simulation exercises, and vendors at the trade show to give information on a variety of topics. The event is organized by the Natural Horsemanship Association (NHA) and more information can be found at http://www.nhassociation.ca/nha-tradeshow/ The event is Free to NHA members. Non-members can visit for the day for $15, or the weekend for $25. The location is 531 Hwy 35, Pontypoool, Ontario at Partridge Horse Hill. The Natural Horsemanship Association is based out of Uxbridge, Ontario.
CONTACT
Annette Forkun +1 (905) 852.4665 nhassociation@gmail.com
INTRODUCING
EXTREME COWBOY RACING
LINDSEY PARTRIDGE
N
avigating a horse backwards through pylons, spinning on a tarp, sideways over logs, going over bridges, or hanging laundry while mounted on your horse – these are all tasks an extreme cowboy rider might encounter in a show.
Bottom: Lindsey aboard Dreamer, her Quarter Horse gelding, at the ECR Regional Championships in Norwood Photo | Happy Hoof Photography
Extreme Cowboy Racing is the ultimate challenge for horse and rider – it tests confidence, skill, agility, and partnership. Riders and horses need to be versatile because it requires skills from many disciplines including reining, roping, jumping, and trail. Whether you want to watch or ride, you can bet there will be something you haven’t done before.
That is what makes Extreme Cowboy Racing so interesting and challenging. In Extreme Cowboy Racing every race is very different. It allows you to compete in one sport and yet have so many goals, possibilities, and new things to share with your horse. I discovered Extreme Cowboy Racing this past summer after trying a clinic at a friend’s farm. I had so much fun trying the different obstacles. I entered my first Extreme Cowboy Race at Campbellford Fair in August. We did a lot of new things and some things we had practiced. It was a really fun challenge and gave me new ideas of things to try at home. Some of the things in the race were riding between two umbrellas, hanging laundry while mounted, spins, sideways over poles, and a water box. I became hooked on Extreme Cowboy Racing. The rest of the season I was able to compete in 3 more races and qualify for the regional finals held at Norwood Fair in October. My Thoroughbred “Soar” and Quarter Horse “Dreamer” qualified back to back, but I wasn’t able to ride Soar because she had an abscess. I had a lot of fun competing with Dreamer though, and we ended up 3rd. It never ceased to amaze me that at every race there were new challenges and things I had never seen or tried before. I loved the variety, surprise, and creativity. It was also great to see how the obstacles became more advanced for the different levels. Throughout the season a youth, ride smart (ages 55+), Non Pro (adult amateur riders), and Pro (Professional riders/Open) divisions were offered. I competed in the Pro division which had the most difficult obstacle variations. For example at the finals, youth did their ‘free ride’ with their tack, Non-Pro did it bareback, and Pro rode bareback with another rider (double bareback).
Let me introduce you to the sport of Extreme Cowboy Racing The Extreme Cowboy Association (EXCA) is the original and only recognized association for the sport of Extreme Cowboy Racing. The Extreme Cowboy Race™ was originated by the first “Original Extreme Cowboy”, Craig Cameron. EXCA events and Europe. Championship Championship Texas.
take place in United States, Canada, Each region offers local, and Regional competitions that lead to the EXCA World competition, which in 2015 was held in
Photo | Happy Hoof Photography
What is an Extreme Cowboy Race? It is a timed event to complete a course of obstacles. Each horse/rider team completes the course individually. Each obstacle they complete is scored out of 10. Their obstacle score combined with their time determines the placing. There are different divisions offered for riders of different ages and level.
What can competitors expect at a race? A course will be posted that gives the order and instructions of how to complete the obstacles. The order of go will be posted so you know when it is your turn to ride. Before the race, competitors get to walk the course with the judge. This is a time when competitors can ask questions and make sure they understand how to complete the obstacles and what the judge is looking for to score top marks.
How are the obstacles scored? Each obstacle has a 30 second time limit. The time begins when the rider approaches the obstacle. If the rider goes over time, a whistle may be blown to signal the rider to move on to the next obstacle. The judge may allow the rider more time at an obstacle if it looks like they are making progress.
The Eloquent Equine • 15
Ideally, the horse and rider should look confident and even a little relaxed. Balance, cadence, and confidence are what the EXCA wants to see coming into and out of obstacles. Horsemanship is always stressed as well as speed with control.
Riders can skip an obstacle (for example if they do not feel comfortable trying it), but they have to continue the obstacles in order. The rider will receive a score of zero and a 30 second time penalty for any obstacle that is skipped. Obstacles are scored on a scale of 1 – 10, with 5 ½ being considered an average score. There are three basic components to each obstacle: the Approach, the Obstacle itself, and the Departure. The judge records one total score for each obstacle. Faster times can earn bonus points for a higher total score. If there is a tie, the winner is determined by the fastest time.
How to score well The judges will be looking for horses and riders that complete the course smoothly. Transitions should be smooth, soft, and balanced. The horse should be in a natural frame and willingly respond to cues from the rider. The horse should act as if it knows how to do the transitions/obstacles. The horse should not act as if being pulled down by strength, gaping its mouth, or throwing its head up in the air to resist to the point of notice. The horse should not be swapping leads on the way in. The approach should be as straight as possible. On the obstacle, the EXCA is looking for a horse working on a loose or soft rein.
Featured • Extreme Cowboy Racing
Riders can lose points for: • Incorrect lead • Gaping mouth • Not changing in the back during a lead change (cross firing) • Excessive spurring • Hanging or balancing on your reins to maintain balance • Going too fast when conditions make footing unstable • Being heavy handed • Having excessive speed going into an obstacle creating an unnecessary risk for the horse and rider • Not keeping the horses’ hind leg planted during a turn around • On a turn around, hopping and not crossing over correctly on the front end Riders can gain points for: • Starting on and maintaining the correct lead • Riding on a loose rein • Keeping the horse’s inside leg planted during a turn around • On a turn around, showing speed and crossing over in the front without hopping • Big sliding stop, without pulling on the horses’ face, causing a gaping mouth and head elevation • Good speed control with lots of rate • Backing through an obstacle with straightness, cadence, and speed while having the horse bridled up and broken at the poll • Keeping the horse collected and correct throughout the obstacle maintaining the proper framed body. What to wear? • All tack/attire must be traditional Western or Australian with long sleeve button up shirts. • You can ride without a bridle or bareback. • Dress jeans or colored jeans are acceptable.
What are some of the obstacles? Obstacles I tried this year: • Backing • Bareback Double Rider • Bridge Cowboy Curtain • Ground Tie • Hay Carry • Leading Horse - from ground • Log Pull • Mail Box • Moguls • Narrow Bridge • Open and Close Gate (rope gate or regular gate) • Pick Up Horses Feet • Slicker or Tarp Carry • Trailer Load Other possible obstacles that I haven’t seen at races yet, but that are listed on the EXCA website are: • Archery Shoot: The rider must pick up a bow and blunted arrow and shoot a fixed obstacle. • Barrel Jumps • Blindfold and Lead Your Horse • Climb Windmill - Ring Bell: The rider dismounts at the wind mill or similar object such as a ladder leaning against a barn in a safe manner and may either ground tie or tie his/her horse to an appropriate object.
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Cow Sort: Horse and rider team must sort a numbered cow or cow of a certain color from the herd. Flares and Smoke: Flares may be on the ground and horse and rider must ride by or through the flare smoke. Move Golf Ball from one cone to another cone: A golf ball is placed on the top of a cone. Pallet Pull: This is a pulling challenge designed to show complete control of the horse. Example: A 3’ X 4’ pallet is loaded with approximately 350 pounds of small square hay bales. A 5 gallon bucket of water is placed on top of the stacked hay. A lariat rope is tied to the middle of the pallet in a good pulling position. The rider must then pull the stacked hay and bucket of water the allotted distance, 15’ – 20’. Pistol-Shoot Balloons (black powder mounted shooting blanks): A ground handler will hand the pistol to the rider or the rider will pick up the pistol from a safe, stationary location. The rider will return the pistol to the handler or to the stationary location upon completion of the obstacle.
Photo | Happy Hoof Photography
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Pony or Lead a Second Horse: Rider will pick up a second horse from a handler or untie the horse from a stationary object. Road Flashers and/or Road Signs: An obstacle designed to show the confidence of the horse in the rider to ride through or past the flashing lights. Trash Ride (trash between two panels): This obstacle is created by making a 10’ wide alley with portable panels approximately 12-24’ long. The alley is then littered with trash such as feed sacks, cans, paper bags, plastic bottles simulating trash on the highway or messy campsites. Tunnel: This is an object that can be created with tarps, panels, hay bales etc. to create a tunnel effect. Water Sprinkler: Water sprinklers may be positioned where the water goes up, down or sideways to create a challenging obstacle.
How can you get started? Start by practicing some skills and obstacles with your horse. These are some helpful skills for your horse to have before coming to a race: • Go backwards between objects (for example between two poles) • Go sideways over an object (for example over poles) • Jump small square hay/straw bales • Stand still while you pick up objects (for example lifting a bucket with water) • Stand still while you dismount, run a circle around them, and mount • Walk over a variety of bridges, mats, and tarps • Go through a rope gate Being able to do these skills will set your horse up to understand most of the challenges that you are likely to find at an Extreme Cowboy Race.
Not sure how to do this? Check out Harmony Horsemanship or book a clinic with me at www.PartridgeHorseHill.com You can also find more information about Extreme Cowboy Racing at www.extremecowboyassociation. com or check out the Ontario Extreme Cowboy Racing Club at www.ontarioxtremecowboy.ca
Featured • Extreme Cowboy Racing
Want to try an obstacle show without the speed? Check out the Natural Horsemanship association, at www. nhassociation.ca, for obstacle shows that focus on how well you complete the obstacle. Their Horse Agility and Obstacle Shows have some classes on the ground where you can lead your horse through various obstacles, as well as some riding classes to complete an obstacle course. They are the perfect place to start for new riders or horses that just want a relaxed atmosphere to try showing with obstacles.
Lindsey Partridge has been coaching and training horses since 2002, and in 2015 she won Thoroughbred Makeover with her horse ‘Soar.’ She is a Level 1 Centered Riding Coach, Level 4 graduate of Finesse/Freestyle in Parelli, Equine Canada Rider Level 8, Natural Horsemanship Association Platinum Level Coach/ Trainer, and Certified Coach of Ontario. Learn more about her at www.partridgehorsehill.com
INTRODUCING
JUMPCROSS
What happens when you cross stadium fencing with the rigours of varied cross country terrain? Well, you get a truly unique equestrian discipline growing in popularity in the UK and Europe called JumpCross. The creation of Grange Farm Equestrian’s Robin Dunlop in Peterborough, UK, the goal of JumpCross is simple – provide riders with an authentic cross country experience, except with stadium fences instead of the traditional cross country ones. The result, a slightly less intimidating sport that still exposes riders and their horses to the traditional challenges of cross country course, plus the added challenge of being precise enough to not knock down the more sensitive standard rail fences. This unique combination of two popular disciplines brings together the best of both worlds, forcing horse and rider to work on balance, rhythm, and accuracy in a way that is both similar and different from traditional stadium and cross-country courses. It’s designed not only as fun activity, unlike any other you’ve likely encounter, but as a training exercise for riders of all disciplines looking to improve their skills over fences.
As for the actual competition, the rules are fairly simple: • 20 penalties for each rail dropped • 50 penalties per refusal • After 2 refusals at the same fence, you must move on to the next • 6 refusals on course results in elimination • A horse or rider fall results in elimination According to the JumpCross website, the overseeing body of all JumpCross events in the UK, courses can include up to 25 jumps of varying style and difficulty, spread over 1.5 – 2 km. At the end of the course, riders are given the option to take the “Joker” fence for a chance to knock 40 penalties off your score. Take the joker and knock the rail though, and an additional 40 penalties get added. The joker fence is typically 6 inches higher than the other fences on course. The victor is determined by the rider with the lowest score, which is calculated based on total penalties accumulated on course and the total time taken to complete the ride. Like standard show jumping competitions, JumpCross competitions are divided into division by groups, with additional divisions added depending on the venue. While the sport does not seemed to have spilled into the North American market just yet, it’s definitely an emerging discipline to keep an eye on, and one that definitely looks easier than it probably is. You can find out more information on the origins of JumpCross, and how to register for an event in your area, but visiting the JumpCross website at www.jumpcross.com
The Eloquent Equine • 19
WHY SHOULD KIDS
HAVE ALL THE FUN? SUMMER RIDING CAMP ... ADULT STYLE
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re you secretly longing for those good old summer pony camp days, relaxing in the sun and riding all day long? Or did you miss out on that summer camp fun in your younger years? Regardless, if you’re looking to revisit your inner child, with a slightly more adult touch, you’re in luck. Increasing in popularity, many equestrian facility and equestrian holiday centres now offer summer riding camp, tailored strictly to adults. Whether you’re an experience competitor looking to up your game with some serious training, or a total newbie looking to sate your appetite for equine adventure – there’s bound to be a camp for you. Adult riding camps offer the opportunity to get dedicated horse time away from your busy work and home life, with the added bonus of being able to socialize and network with individuals who share your passion and ride at your level.
Featured • Why should kids have all the fun?
As facilities steadily see an increase in adult riders – whether there are novice and amateur riders looking to increase their skills, long time absentees looking to return to the saddle after a long break, or those looking to finally realize their long time passion for horses – a wide range of facilities have taken up the call to offer targeted adult riding camps, for all levels and disciplines. Most programs work closely with their adult “campers” to build a targeted training plan or set of personal goals to achieve, giving them something to work towards during their stay. Depending on the rider level, many facilities also offer on the ground instruction that ranges from grooming to saddle fit and feeding and nutrition – it really is a “whole horse” experience. As an added bonus, many facilities who have built their business around equestrian camps offer a range of other activities adult campers may enjoy, including general fitness, sports, and pools and beaches. Riding and some much needed R&R, what’s not to love? If you can’t spare several days away from home for a summer camp vacation (or perhaps don’t have the budget), but want some intensive training time with your horse? Try talking to your current coach or trainer (or one at your barn) to see if you can set up a camp of your own. Try a 5 or 7 day boot camp, where you up your once weekly lesson to one every day, or see if you can do some shadowing to watch lessons, farrier or vet visits, or hang out at the show to get some more overall horse experience. Adult focused clinics are also a great opportunity for some targeted training with industry professionals, when you don’t have the time and budget for extended training camps.
Let’s face it, camp isn’t just for kids anymore – and why should they have all the fun anyway? The Eloquent Equine • 21
CROSSING
THE DISCIPLINES STEPHANIE JENSEN & JORDAN THOMPSON
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hile the allure of big fancy fences and expressive movements have and always will be a draw to riders trying to reach the top of their sport, is the less showy foundational skills that will truly get a rider to the top, or at the very least make them a confident and capable rider who can handle the challenges that training and competition often throws their way. Many riders are beginning to realize that crosstraining is the way to go when trying to build their skills and train their horses effectively. Classic Dressage principles can help Hunter, Jumper, and Event riders build better equitation skills, while low fences and cavelettis can help Dressage riders teach their horses to better engage the hind end. You don’t need to switch disciplines to learn some new techniques from another discipline, but try a lesson or take some training exercises from another discipline to change up the monotony of your regular routine and infuse new life into your riding. Predictable training will always yield predictable results, so it’s essential that riders have a strong base knowledge in the essential foundations of riding to progress their skills and train their horse’s right. Regardless of your chosen discipline, the foundational principles of good riding are always the same.
This is part 2 in our new equitation series focusing on building rider foundations and good equitation practice.
Riders should always think like a trainer, even if they aren’t one, as it will help to make them more adaptable and competent in the saddle, and able to ride their horses more effectively.
You can check out PART 1: PERFECT EQ , in Issue No. 9 (Training).
Riders should also be problem solvers, regardless of
*
The Essentials • Crossing the Disciplines
level, age, or discipline. A rider with good problem solving skills can fix issues fast, which can keep issues in the tack from becoming explosive, lower stress, and generally make for a more confident and self-aware horse and rider team. As equitation becomes a more popular buzz word in the industry, riders truly need to turn their focus back to building their knowledge base in order to become better equestrians overall. Learning how to “equitate” properly can have impressive results on your riding and competitive results, regardless of whether you are a Dressage, Hunter, or Event rider.
PROPER AIDS The essential part of any training is for the rider to understand how proper aids get proper results. It’s the rider’s responsibility to take ownership for their actions, and ensure they are asking for what they want correctly, as this sets your horse up for success. Focus on being accurate and consistent with your aids, and your horse will become more responsive and attentive to what you want, unclear communication leads to problems – if your horse can’t understand you, he can’t do what you want him to. Your position in the saddle will impact the quality of your aids, so be attentive to how your riding as it will impact your horse. A supple rider, who is loose and moves with the rhythm of the horse, will have an easier time getting their horse to loosen up and become supple. In contrast, if you’re tight your horse is going to be tight too.
TRANSITIONS Transitions, transitions, transitions … and just when you think you’ve done enough, do more (and more) transitions. Transitions are an essential training tool to help make your horse more rideable and obedient. Good transitions not only give you more control of your horse’s speed of gait while schooling (or in the show ring), but also help you to ensure your horse is balanced and working off and engaging the hind legs when you are executing transitions while jumping a course, or during a dressage test.
BALANCE
A rider should have a clear understanding of their horse’s balance, and overall alignment as it has a profound effect on their movement and rideability. A balanced horse is responsive to subtle aids and is easy to access, where an unbalanced horse will be strong, forward, and can often be seen to “run away” with its rider. This can be especially true for thoroughbreds. Always start by focusing on balance and alignment, then build up from there. Riders should not attempt “big” trots and canters until proper balance and strength is established in the horse. You should only ever ride as big as you can handle, as without proper balance things will start to fall apart. A rider always needs to be in control, and this isn’t a case of brute force, but of subtle aiding and the ability to control the movement of your horse’s legs through balance and alignment. You should be the one to set the speed, not the horse, and you should always be able to move the gait forward and back (extension and collection) as you see fit.
DON’T STOP Good problem solving skills are a rider’s best friend; you should be able to assess and adapt to challenges as they arise and while you are in motion. A common phenomenon when things go awry is to stop, catch a breath, fix the issue, and then move on – but this isn’t always the right approach. A good rider can fix an issue while still in motion; stopping to fix issues often leads to more problems as horses learn to predict this stop.
BUILDING YOUR SKILLS THROUGH TRAINING If you want to work on your horse’s foundations, incorporate gymnastic exercises in your training regime 2 to 4 times a week. Gymnastic exercises will teach your horse more cadence and strengthen muscles, while also improving the quality of their gaits. Gymnastics are designed to be challenging, and you’d be surprised how much they will reveal about potential gaps in your training. Even well-schooled horses can suddenly fall flat and on the forehand if
The Eloquent Equine • 23
they are not used to engaging their bodies in the specific and very controlled manner required for these type of exercises. Regularly incorporating gymnastics into your training will improve your horse’s self-awareness and how he actively uses and engages his body during riding. This self-awareness will reflect back into all aspects of your riding going forward, from movements in a dressage test to form over fences. With a few simple polls or cavelettis you can create a range of exercises that will improve your horse’s movement, suppleness, elevation, and pacing. Gymnastic exercises will encourage your horse to activate their hindquarters, move over their back, and become supple while stretching into the hand. When setting up your gymnastic exercise the correct distances are very important: • For the walk – 0.8 – 0.9m apart • For trot work – 1.2 – 1.3m apart • For canter work – 3m apart When your cavelettis are placed closer together, your horse will be required to step shorter, forcing him to move with more collection and elevation. In contrast, wider cavelleti placement will increase the forward movement from the shoulder, extending the pace. You can also try a curved line for working on essential skills at the trot and canter. Place your cavelettis in a fan-shape (on a circle), with a distance of 1.2m for trot work, and 2m (inside line) and 3m (outside line) for canter. The fan shape allows you to work on both collection and extended paces without having to change the setup of your gymnastic. By simply varying your line between the outside and inside of the fan, you can work on different skills, all at the same time. Good training, and good riding, is about taking small steps towards the end goal. By taking a “one-step at a time” approach to training riders can ensure they have the appropriate knowledge required to train their horses effectively, and allow the horse the opportunity to understand each lesson before moving on to the next one. A varied training routine that pulls foundational
The Essentials • Crossing the Disciplines
skills from across the disciplines will develop a more rounded horse and rider combination that is able to trust one another and problem solve on the go, setting both up for long term success in the show ring or while schooling at home.
--Looking to improve your skills and become a better rider? Stephanie and Jordan are thrilled to offer a unique 6 month clinic series to equestrians of Durham region. This intensive learning program has been designed to develop and improve skills on the flat and over fences. Designed for riders of all disciplines, from grass roots to advanced, clinic dates will be offered twice a month, from March through August 2016. Don’t miss this chance to see the benefits of crosstraining in action! To book, contact jensenequestrian@aol.com or Jordan.elizabeth.thompson@gmail.com.
Stephanie Jensen is an EC Level 2 certified coach and Grand Prix Dressage rider with 3 decades of coaching and training experience. She specializes in teaching classical foundations to riders of all disciplines. Jordan Thompson is a Canadian eventer who has achieved success internationally at the 1* and 2* level. She has her level 1 coaching certification and has trained under many top riders, including Ian Roberts, Ryan Wood, Ute Busse, & Stephanie Jensen.
GYMNASTICISING TRAINING EXERCISES Looking for some inspiration to invigorate your training routine? Check out these easy to set up gymnastic lines. Find them at [theeloquentequine.com]
TRICKED OUT! TRAINING - A BIT MORE OUTSIDE THE BOX
L
ong used in the entertainment industry, trick training is can actually be a fun and simple training activity you can use to break up your regular riding routine, while teaching your horse essential skills you can use when back under saddle. Trick training teaches your horse to look to you for direction and leadership, a set of skills you can transfer back into your riding to get a horse who is rideable and attentive to your aids. This type of training is also a great activity for mentally stimulating your horse and expanding his reasoning capability, as he needs to think about what you are asking, before he does it. Together, these skills increase trust and communication both in and out of the saddle, and help your horse better learn to think his way through a potentially challenging situation, and trust in you as the leader when he is in doubt or requires further direction.
A few things to keep in mind before starting your training: • Timing is EVERYTHING – the reward (clicker or vocal praise) must be given the moment your horse does what you ask of him. In the start, his response won’t be perfect, but praise his effort, and do so as soon as you get a response, if you praise too late he won’t associate the praise with the action just completed • Take small steps and be patient – start training with a simple trick, and work your way up. Also, keep your training sessions short, and focused only on one trick. Asking too much at once can be confusing, and discourage your horse’s natural curiosity – making him less attentive and interested in participating • Know what you’re asking, before you ask – have your goal clear in mind so that your aids are correct, good communication is as essential in trick training as it is in riding • Stay in control of the treats – many horses can get distracted and pushy when they know you have delicious snacks, so ensure you stay in “control” of the treats. Don’t reward bad behaviour, and only treat him when he respects your space and does what you ask
Ready to get started? Here are some simple tricks you can try at home:
Note: many people prefer to use a clicker when undertaking this type of training, as it’s a quick and easy way of using positive reinforcement. If you want to use the clicker approach, you’ll need to undertake some additional steps at the start to “condition” your horse to the clicker. A verbal reward is just as effective when training, it just involves you having to be a bit quicker on your toes, to ensure you’re rewarding at the right moment.
TARGET / TOUCH TRAINING Almost anything can be used as a target when you are training this trick, but you can generally categorize targets into two types, stationary and hand held. A stationary target is one that is in a fixed location, and you horse must be placed at or sent to them. For example, mounting blocks and mats are a
good stationary target. A hand held target is one that you carry with you, and can be used for exercises that involve motion. These targets should have a clear spot on the end for your horse to target. For example, try sticking an object (e.g. a tennis ball) on the end of a whip. 1. Pick an object you’ll use for target training, it’s easiest to start with something hand held 2. Hold the object in front of your horse, at about chest height, where he can see it but it is not overly threatening. 3. Wait to see if he reaches out to touch or sniff the target, with most horses curiosity will win out fairly quickly. If he reaches for or even touches the object, instantly praise and offer a treat. If he simply ignores the object, move it a bit closer, and if he reaches for it (or eventually bumps into it), praise and treat. 4. Repeat the activity a few times until he gets the hang of it, always praise and reward for a touch (or even an almost touch if you horse is apprehensive). 5. When your horse is comfortable touching the target, start moving it around and getting him to touch it in different places, lower, to the side, further back, etc. Now that he has the hang of it, don’t reward and praise unless he actually touches the target with his nose. Don’t be discouraged if your horse suddenly loses interest in the task at hand. Once the initial curiosity he has for the object wears off, he may lose interest if he doesn’t fully understand the “game” that you are playing. Try rubbing the treat on the object (or put it in/on the object, depending on the object) to make it more interesting. Once you’ve got his attention, get him to touch and praise him for the effort, then move onto something else so he doesn’t lose interest again. Like all training, always end on a high note. Once your horse gets the basics of target training down pat, you can expand the range and applications for targeting. This is actually a really useful trick to teach your horse, and it can be used to make a range of everyday tasks simpler.
The Eloquent Equine • 27
negatively impact your relationship and training. For example, you can use this lesson to teach your horse to: • • • • •
Stand while tied, or ground tie Load in a trailer Approach scary objects Stand quietly at the mounting block Complete advanced tricks that involve pointing or picking things up
TAKE A BOW Teaching you horse to bow is a fairly simple trick, but because you will be working in close proximity to your horse, pay careful attention to his body language and your surrounding environment. Depending on your horse’s personality, and your training environment, it may help to have a friendly hand nearby in case your horse spooks or gets away from you. Always make sure you are training in an enclosed area (e.g. round pen or fenced paddock) on level ground. 1. Start by teaching your horse to reach his nose down between his front legs. Use a treat to entice him to stretch his neck down and between his legs, but don’t ask him to go too far on the first attempts. Depending on your horse, some will bend down eagerly to get the treat, while others may require more coaxing and repeated attempts (and positive reinforcement) to drop their head that low. 2. Praise and reward the moment you horse does as you ask 3. Repeat the exercise, moving the treat farther away as you go, forcing him to stretch further to get it. 4. Once he’s got the hang of it, start introducing a verbal or physical command to execute the trick. For example, as he is reaching back cue with “bow” or tap him on the shoulder (when using physical cues, remember to always tap the exact same place every time). 5. Repeat and reward until he’s got it down pat! Getting your horse to do a full bow (full down on the knee) will take more training and a significant amount of trust between horse and rider to execute. This position is much more vulnerable for the horse, and should never be forced on the horse as it will
The Essentials • Tricked Out
FETCH
You can also combine a number of simpler tricks into a larger sequence. Fetch is a good example of this, as it combines several actions. Many advanced tricks can be broken down into smaller “chunks” which are simple tricks or actions that you can teach your horse first, and then combine to make a more complex action. To train your horse to fetch, you’ll first need to teach him to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Go and retrieve a specific object Touch a specific object Take and hold and object Bring an object to his human Give the object away to his human
Grab an object that is safe for your horse to put in his mouth, but also easy for him to pick up. Try a sock or a baseball cap. Start by teaching your horse to touch the target object with his nose, and reward when he does. Repeat this a couple times until he’s got it down pat. Make sure the target object is in close proximity to start, then you can move it a bit further away (but not too far). Next, you’ll need to teach your horse to pick up and hold an object within his close proximity. For horses that are already a bit “mouthy” this step will be easy to teach, for others it may take a bit longer. Try stuffing a sock with a bit of feed, then hold it up to his mouth. See if he takes an interest in nibbling at it, or putting it in his mouth. If he does either, praise him and offer an even more delicious snack as a reward. Repeat this a few times, then add in the vocal cue “pick it up” every time he touches or lips at the object. Once you’ve got the touch and hold down pat, it’s time to actually get him to pick it up. Stick your object on a slightly raised surface, like a mounting block, and now encourage him to not only mouth the object, but to pick it up and hold it. Continue to reinforce with praise and a reward, and use your “pick it up” cue. Slowly build up his ability to hold the object in his mouth for an extended period of time. Always remember to reward him for doing what you want.
As you increase the challenge and length of time he has to hold it, don’t reward him if he drops the object, but instead ignore him for a moment and then try again, rewarding only when he does what you ask (hold the object). To continue to build on the chain of actions required to fetch, you now need to teach your horse to bring the object to you. After you’ve had him pick up the object and hold it, step back one step and encourage him to come towards you with the object. Then encourage him to drop the object in your hands in exchange for a treat. Praise and repeat. The last step is to add some distance. As always, start small and work your way up. Set the target object down, back up a few steps, then cue your horse to pick up and bring you the object. Reward after he successfully does what you ask, and repeat, adding a few more steps back each time. Before long your horse will be going across the arena to get the object you threw for them. Keep in mind, that despite your best efforts, some horses just won’t want to fetch. If your horse doesn’t want to do it, or shows a distinct lack of interest in any of the steps, move on to something else.
curious or interested in certain objects. Finding an object that your horse is drawn to will make the trick easier.
--When you start training tricks, it takes a bit for your horse to learn how to do what you are asking, as it different than he is likely used to. Once your horse has “learned how to learn”, and you’ve figured out how to effectively communicate what you want, the possibilities are endless.
Stationary Target
When you’ve got the foundational tricks and actions down pat, you can teach your horse almost anything. You’ll find that once your horse has the hang of it, he’ll learn quickly and be quite enthusiastic about it as well. Trick training is a great tool to keep in your arsenal, and not only for entertainment purposes.
Hand held target
It’s an imaginative way to teach attentiveness, respect, communication, and leadership; all of which are lessons you can transfer into your saddle time for enhanced performance while in the show or schooling ring.
Don’t let him get discouraged because one trick isn’t for him, all horses have different personalities, and so they’ll be better suited to some tricks than others. You may also have to experiment with the objects you use to fetch, as not all horses are
The Eloquent Equine • 29
Digital Equestrian Magazine THANKS FOR READING!
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