Absolute Horse January 2016

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F

E M K ’M C -I !

PI P EE U R

Absolute

JANUARY 2016

New year - new hat?

y p p Ha

New Year!

Planning permission myths busted!

Page 46

PLUS

Ride safe this winter Page 26

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JANUARY

2016 10

25

42

46

ISSUE 295

Hunt Master James Buckle, leads The Essex and Suffolk Hunt through Bildeston.

Photo: Karen Davison White

REGULARS News 4 Your Comment 6 18 Vetwatch: Alopecia in horses

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40 Though every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, PCD Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the opinions expressed in the magazine.

The opinions and technical information in the articles are those of the authors.

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Metafitness EAST: Parelli Natural Horsemanship

FEATURES On the market: Newton Hall 8 10 Charity Focus 14 Riding Holidays 20 Health & Welfare 26 Safety: New Year, new riding hat?

Plus: The importance of Hi-vis clothing 30 Nutrition 40 Ride Like Lara Edwards: Get the most from your schooling 42 Ride Like Lesley PeytonGilbert: Happy Hacking

01473 731220

How to contact us...

44 46

Saddlery & Tack Stables

WHAT’S

InSIde

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PHOTONEWS 52 TopFest Showing Championships: Topthorn Arena 54 Championship Christmas Show: Humberstone Farm 55 Iceni Group Purple Poppy Ride: Thetford Forest 56 Cambridge University United Hunts Club Point-to-point: Cottenham 57 East Sussex Hunt: Hammonds Farm 58 Essex & Suffolk Hunt: Bildeston Crown

info@ahmagazine.com

www.absolutehorsemagazine.com www.issuu.com

PCD Media (East Anglia) Ltd Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS. Find us on facebook 3

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NEWS

eSSeX: Pony tethered with chain The RSPCA is appealing for information about a piebald horse that was found tethered with chains and abandoned in a field in Grays, Essex.

The pony was suffering with a large wound to her neck that was infested with maggots. The mare was found by RSPCA inspector Marie Hammerton on the 12th November 2015 near Courtney Road, after a member of the public called the charity’s cruelty line.

Inspector Hammerton said: “The tether used was totally inappropriate - a thick metal chain wrapped in what appears to be the inner tube of a push bike. She must have been in so much pain.”

If you have information please call 0300 123 8018.

Record number of horses rehomed World Horse Welfare is delighted to report record-breaking rehoming figures for September and October which have seen the charity almost double the number of horses rehomed on average each month.

equifest 2016: Biggest and Best yet!

Entering its eighth year and building on the success of last year’s show, Equifest 2016, will be held from August 17th to the 21st at the East of England Showground, Peterborough.

Walking With The Wounded joins forces with Houghton International 4

november

winners Equisafety Ruth Keen, Norfolk. Liverpool Int Horse Show Brigitta Lewis, Suffolk; Georgie Clow, Essex. Safe tor c e Care Cherry it u q kSee E ide-bac s Bennett, in n o t of adver r details Cambridgeshire, fo r e v o C azing Claire Sturgeon, their am ale! s y r a Suffolk Janu

HURRY!

Musketeer Event Management are delighted to announce Walking With The Wounded as Houghton International 2016's official charity.

Event Director Alec Lochore added: “I couldn't be more delighted to work alongside such an inspirational group of people. Its team has already brought innovative suggestions to the table that will not only raise funds for, and awareness of, the charity, but provide spectacular entertainment for visitors to the Horse Trials.”

new iNitiAtivE! The Pony Club is delighted to announce that a number of their Tests will now be recognised as suitable for direct entry to British Horse Society (BHS) and British Showjumping (BS) examinations, and those holding specified BHS and BS qualifications will be able to take Pony Club Tests at the level relevant to their experience.

This means that eligible riders can use their existing qualifications to advance within another organisation’s training structure without having to start at the first level of the BHS Stage One, BS Five Star Performance Awards or The Pony Club D Test.

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Another new addition joins the ‘team’ It is with great pleasure the Absolute Horse team announces the arrival of its latest ‘member’ Tallulah, the newborn daughter to Absolute Horse Director, Tom Dodd, and his partner Vicki-May Northover.

Weighing in at 8lbs, the gorgeous girl was born on 20th November.

‘Lulu’ joins brother Sonny, along with cousins Sid and Betty to learn the ropes of print and publishing.

NEw ShowiNg

26th Jan: Any Horse Any Rider Clinic with Caroline Meads BHSI, at Forest Edge Arena, Drymere, Swaffham, PE37 8AS 23rd Feb: Any Horse Any Rider Clinic with Caroline Meads BHSI, at Forest Edge Arena, Drymere, Swaffham, PE37 8AS 7th Mar: Stable Managers Training, with Carole Broad FBHS, at Shuttleworth College Equine Unit, near Biggleswade, SG18 9HF 8th Mar: Any Horse Any Rider Clinic with Carole Broad FBHS, at Forest Edge Arena, Drymere, Swaffham, PE37 8AS 9th Mar: Lunging & Long Lining Training Day (CPD), with Carole Broad FBHS, 9.30am until 4pm, Newton Hall EC, Swilland, Suffolk, IP6 9LT 10th Mar: PTT Training Day with Carole Broad FBHS: 9.30am until 4pm, at Easton College, Norwich, NR9 5DX 21st Mar: Essential Horse Knowledge Certificate, Train the Trainer, 1pm-3pm, at Newton Hall EC, Swilland, Suffolk IP6 9LT. Only open to Instructors on the BHS register, £30. To book phone the Education dept on 02476 840 508 For more details and how to book please go to the website www.bhs.org.uk/east

ChamPS The Junior Mountain and Moorland Ridden Pony of the Year Championship opens up another chance for young riders to compete at HOYS 2016.

After a detailed review of this and previous years’ finals and conscious of providing new opportunities to young future stars, HOYS will be introducing this Championship in addition to the current M&M classes.

The Junior Mountain and Moorland Ridden Pony of the Year Championship, will provide an exciting platform for junior riders, fresh out of the M&M First Ridden class, to compete on Small Breed M&M ponies, whose breeding is either Welsh Sec A, Welsh Sec B, Dartmoor, Exmoor or Shetland.

SPRING TRAINING DATES

For more details please contact: Janet Holmes, BHS Regional Manager on 07808 141076 or janet.holmes@bhs.org.uk www.bhs.org.uk

aCCeSSibility maRk: ENCoURAgiNg RidiNg An innovative new concept has been launched which aims to change lives through riding.

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), in partnership with Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation initiative has launched Accessibility Mark to help riding establishments deliver a high quality experience for clients with disabilities.

Accessibility Mark accreditation allows centres to access ongoing training and advice from RDA to help encourage more people with disabilities to take part in riding activities.

B OYTON HALL EQUINE CENTRE

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Stockists of Major Brands incl: Allen & Page, Spillers, Baileys, Dodson & Horrell, Dengie, TopSpec, Simple Systems, Honeychop, Mollichaff, EH Haylage, Hunters/Snowflake/Sundown Bedding.

Plus feeds for Dogs, Cats, Poultry, Sheep, Pigs & Goats and not forgetting the birds!

Call today for a friendly and efficient service - delivery available too.

Full, standard & DIY Livery available - please see website for more information or call to arrange a viewing of our faclilities. Full list of our Shows and Clinics are on our website and Horsedates - see what we can do for you today...

Telephone 01449 744482 www.bhec.co.uk adrian@bhec.co.uk

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YOUR COMMENT Every month we pose a question on the Absolute Horse Magazine Facebook page – for your chance to win the Ariat prize simply post ‘Your Comment’ in answer to our question, and the best answer wins!

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We asked our acebook fans the following question...

Nicola Cottrell: To get a photo of my horse on the front cover of Absolute Horse!

Christy Seaman: Go out showing and enjoy it more rather than worrying about ribbons!

Donna Hammond: I want to jump in 2016 (jumping scares the wotsits out of me) I will jump something in 2016!

Jane Salmon: I just want to do the best I can with the horse I’ve got, I know he's not a superstar but he's mine and we try very hard to get there.

Nicki Ash: Loose weight after hip replacement and get back in the saddle and qualify my stallion at RI or HOYS. Jenny Downing: I've already got my resolution sorted... my husband knows I own a horse but dressage bores him, however, I've just watched the Puissance with a very interested husband who will now happily go to Olympia next year with me as long as it's show jumping! So ha ha I win.

Pauline Cambridge: To keep the horse between me and the ground... wouldn't want to get my breeches dirty!

Rebecca Ogden: To remember my 6P's...... Proper, Preparation, Prevents, Pi#s Poor, Performance....

Christine Brindle: To take more time to actually ride my horse and enjoy her rather than worrying about all the other little jobs that need doing round the yard. The jobs will still be there during bad weather when I can't ride so I must

It’s that time of the year when we make our New Year’s resolutions... so what are yours for 2016?

make the most of the good weather!

Ellen Fosker: Not to be scared and get a grip!

Michelle L Todd: For 2016 I'd like to get my horse and myself confident enough to do XC - he is my baby and loves to jump.

Carrie-Anne Lynch: Me and my mare have had years of endless problems so to finally overcome them and become a happy partnership would mean more to me than any ribbon at a show!

She is one in a million! Also want to make something of myself in treating horses with tension in numerous ways after going through it with my own horse... its been an eye opener and so educational!

Michelle Abbott: Just to get out competing more.

Penny Sangster: To inspire the next generation of riders!

Charlotte Wood: Get back in the saddle after a year off having a baby, and appreciate and make the most of the pony I've got, despite his 'quirks'!

Sarah Ellen Corbett: Our first dressage competition and more from then on.

Claire Thompson-Kitchen: To enjoy every day with my horse like never before.

Emma Swinburn: To remember that you don't have the power to change the past but you can

change your future, to do my very best to make every day matter and do my very best to be the best version of myself I can be.

Deborah Fisher: To ride more.

Lauren Morris: To become a better equestrian both mind and soul so my horses can have a better life every day.

Louise Thompson: Recover from my broken thigh (6 months now) and get riding my lovely ShowJumper and build my confidence up to start from where we left off before my accident, been a long painful journey and long way to go.

Amy Reynolds: To stick to the ones I make every year.

Emma Petty: Make the most of every day, including the time with the horse, as no one knows what's around the corner.

Wednesday Batchelor: Start riding again.. I haven't ridden since I lost my girl suddenly 2 years ago.

Before then I couldn't have imagined a world without horses, now I live in that world and it's awful! Not a day has gone past when I haven't missed her or found myself sitting and remembering the good and bad times. My hope is to get a youngster and start over and get back to jumping, and I cannot wait.

and the Star winner is...

Christine Plyle: To lose some weight so as to look good in the Ariat breeches I'm hoping to win!

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Chloe kicks off her 2016 campaign with a win demonstrates the standard of jumping seen. Chloe and Millie were outstanding over the two rounds, particularly in the jumpoff where Chloe’s slightly tighter line on the turn to the final double secured them the win.”

Yazmin Davis took fourth with Alison Davis’s Zilverster II, Jessica Crosby with Hemmingway owned by Pamela Crosby finished in fifth place, with Graham Babes and Boucheron, owned by Patricia Fraser taking sixth.

There was a total prize fund of £1,650 for the qualifier, with training vouchers to the value of £725 awarded to the first six prize-winning riders currently eligible for British Team selection.

Through the qualifiers and an accumulation of points, riders will be aiming to qualify for the Final.

The Championship is supported

by Dodson & Horrell who is Europe's leading equine feed manufacturer and a highly respected worldwide authority on animal nutrition and feeding.

Dodson & Horrell’s involvement of

the Under 23 British Championship demonstrates their history of support in equestrian sports across all levels, from sponsorship of British Dressage, British Showjumping, Riding Club and Pony Club events to title sponsorship of the iconic Dodson & Horrell Chatsworth International Horse Trials. In addition, as official supplier of nutrition to Equestrian Team

GBR, Dodson & Horrell will play a pivotal advisory role in the lead up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The World Class Programme aims to provide Britain’s elite riders with the best preparation to represent Equestrian Team GBR on the international stage and is funded by National Lottery and Exchequer funds via UK Sport.

Pics by Equipics

Suffolk based showjumper Chloe Winchester recorded a superb win at the Dodson & Horrell and the World Class Programme Under 23 British Championship Qualifier on Saturday 5th December at Arena UK in Lincolnshire to get her 2016 campaign off to a good start.

Aboard Gilly Winchester’s Avoca Valkyrie, the UK Sport National Lottery funded World Class Podium Potential rider, produced two stunning clear rounds, to finish top of the twenty-two strong leaderboard, stopping the clock just 1.25 seconds quicker than Durham’s Millie Allen (with Peter Allen and Udo Oppermann’s Balou Star). Alfie Bradstock completed the top three with KBIS British Insurance’s KBIS Caicos.

With seven clear rounds, and four double clears produced across Di Boddy’s technical course, Di Lampard commented; “It was technically a very good course, and to see seven clears

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ON THE MARKET Newton Hall Equitation Centre at Swilland in Suffolk is one of the largest and best regarded riding centres in the East of England.

Established over 50 years ago by the highly respected Rossie Theobald, it is a renowned BHS Training Centre.

The business includes a riding school, livery enterprise and training and show centre. In recent years an impressive modern indoor school complex has been developed, which offers first class, up to date facilities including cafeteria, air-conditioned offices and lecture rooms, high quality stabling and shower and washing facilities.

Newton Hall Equitation Centre is currently being marketed for sale so we spoke with proprietors Rossie and Peter Theobald, and equestrian property agent Emily Cooper-Reade from ECR Properties to find out more about this amazing establishment.

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Newton Hall Rossie may we ask what’s your reason for sale?

“Both our daughters are unable to take on the business. Kirsten is teaching at Woodbridge School and has 3-year-old twins; Petrina lives in Essex and has two small children and finds the distance too much for daily travelling.

“Peter, my husband, is hoping to enjoy some retirement but I would like to continue coaching,

preferably at NHEC with new owners. If this is not a possibility I will freelance around East Anglia.”

For those readers who have not had the pleasure of visiting Newton Hall EC, can you tell us a little more about it in your own words please?

“In the School yard there are currently 30 horses and ponies worked within the BHS approved

riding school scheme ranging from Shetlands for lead reins, pony rides and pony racing, to exevent/dressage horses who can give experienced riders training towards all BHS exams and career training. In all we have a total of 38 stables and approximately 50 acres of grassland for grazing, riding and cross country fences.

“Top yard has 26 indoor loose boxes with automatic drinkers

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EQUITATION CENTRE and hayracks accessed from the walkway. There is an eight horse walker and 5 railed paddocks for turnout.

“Showjumps and WH fences are available with warm up areas in either of the two floodlit outdoor arenas - 60m x 30m and 50m x 25m.

“The Indoor Arena has a judges box in one corner accessed by stairs from the Top yard indoor

stable block with indoor and outdoor speakers.”

Newton Hall has been through many developments, most recently the café...

“The Cafe has made a huge difference to the atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy refreshments and a chat with like minded company. This is well patronised during the regular competitions,

also Riding Club and Pony Club events.

“Beyond the Cafe there are toilets and showers, 2 meeting rooms and a conference room to seat 50 with free Wifi.”

You’ve been awarded many accolades over the years Rossie, what’s your biggest achievement to date?

“My biggest achievement so far

was on 27th November 2015 when I was invited to The Saddlers Hall in London to receive a national award for inspired coaching. Daughter Kirsten and Lesley Clarke, who was secretary for over 30 years were also invited.

Awards were presented by actor and President of the BHS Martin Clunes.”

“The secret of our success? Smiling, welcoming and looking after clients. This was handed down by Mrs Mackman (Rossie’s Mother), and always finding a way to explain that it’s never the horse’s fault, there is ALWAYS a reason for a horse’s behaviour - we need to find the horse’s problem so we can understand and re-train, developing confidence...”

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CHARITY FOCUS

ChaRity begins at home, but should not end there...

WHY A RESCUED HORSE JUST MIGHT BE YOUR PERFECT PARTNER! With so many horses available for sale, for loan or even ‘free to a good home’, it can be hard for people thinking of taking on a new horse to know where to start looking.

Rehoming from a charity may not be the first option that springs to mind but, as Redwings Horse Sanctuary is keen to point out, there are lots of benefits to taking on a rescued horse or pony and so many wonderful, capable individuals just waiting for someone to take them home!

Patch Guipago and Anise

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But don’t just take Redwings’ word for it; meet three of the charity’s rehomed horses for yourself and find out why the people who care for them have never looked back!

Nine-year-old Gelderlander Bungle is proving quite a hit in the dressage arena and is regularly placed with scores often over 70%. His Guardian Eve France took him on in 2011 and is delighted with her handsome chap. “He might be 16.2hh but he’s a real softy,” says Eve fondly.

“He’s a wonderful ride; sensitive, genuine and quick to learn, I couldn’t have asked for more.”

Bungle’s kind nature and his fantastic relationship with Eve is made all the more poignant by his traumatic past. “Bungle was rescued from Spindle Farm near Amersham in 2008,” explains Eve. “I know the conditions there were absolutely horrific and I can’t imagine what Bungle went through. But the horse I know

Geoffrey with Verity on her wedding day

and love today is proof that rescued horses are not necessarily poor quality or problematic and many of them can really shine in the right discipline.”

Equally besotted is Patch Guipago who applied to rehome tricolour cob Anise (originally named Ladybird) from Redwings in 2015.

“I was looking for a non-ridden companion and Anise is just perfect,” says Patch.

Already in her teens when she was

Eve France and Bungle

rescued, Anise was one of more than 100 equines rescued by Redwings in 2012 after being found fly-grazing across various locations by Welsh local authorities. Welfare issues among the herds ranged from liver disease and worm burdens to malnutrition and untreated veterinary problems made more challenging by the semi-feral nature of the horses.

Despite her initial nerves around

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humans, Anise soon blossomed into a sweet-natured mare who is now thriving on the attention she gets from Patch: “I just like being around her. A relationship with any horse comes from groundwork and Anise and I have already have a really close bond.

I’m planning to do some in-hand showing but it’s not why I took her on. I strongly believe that horses who are not in work still have so much to offer and are just as deserving of our love and care.”

But riding is of course the primary reason most people get involved with horses as youngsters. The ponies children bond and spend time with play such an important part in their development as people as well as riders, and Redwings has seen countless inspirational young partnerships across its Guardianship Scheme.

Jenny Skeggs rehomed 14hh native cross Geoffrey for her daughter Verity in 1997. Verity was then 9-years-old and almost immediately the two became inseparable; taking part in everything from Pony Club to cross country, gymkhana to show jumping.

“Geoffrey was an absolute superstar from the beginning,” remembers Verity.

“Geoffrey is truly the most special pony anyone could ever ask for.

He has a wonderful nature, loves cuddles, has kept me safe and given me bundles of fun – he even made an appearance on my wedding day. There seems to be no signs of him wanting to retire and he still loads himself on to the trailer before shows!”

All this from a pony that was found abandoned in a field in Essex with an untreated, infected

Join dr d’s in supporting

Redwings wound on his leg and rescued in partnership with the RSPCA. “I would urge anyone looking for a horse or pony to consider rehoming from a charity, it was certainly one of the best things that ever happened to me,” says Verity.

The benefits of taking on a rescued horse can have farreaching effects. As well as the immediate rewards of giving a horse with an often difficult past a new lease of life, rehoming is the most effective way of helping charities to create room for more animals in need.

As Redwings’ Operations Manager Rachel Angell points out, “Without our fantastic Guardians, Redwings would be so full we would have to turn away horses who desperately need our help.

Rehoming is what enables us all to keep making a difference while ensuring the horses we are already responsible for have the secure, happy life we want for them.”

Bungle’s Guardian Eve sums it up when she says, “As well as being lucky enough to have Bungle in my care, whenever I read one of Redwings heart-breaking rescue stories, I know I’ve played a small part in helping those horses as well. And if they’re anything like Bungle, they more than deserve a second chance too.” www.redwings.org.uk/ rehoming

Dr D’s Tasty Treats aims to raise £2500 this winter to go towards the winter feeding of the veterans and permanent residents at Redwings Horse Sanctuary with the help of Tasty Treats customers.

With over 40 high dependency horses at Redwings, every single donation, no matter how large or small, will be of huge benefit to the charity.

From field shelters to forage, hay to haynets, keeping these horses safe, warm and well fed is

a considerable cost. Dr D’s have come up with some fun rewards to thank everyone for their donations. Every donation from £1 upwards will receive a reward, from discounts on Dr D’s, to Redwings goodie bags and treats.

Visit http://drdstastytreats. com/redwings-winter-feedappeal/ for further details!

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CHARITY FOCUS op smiling!

I just couldn’t st

“

I was lucky enough to go on the BHS Viking Challenge in aid of BHS Welfare. The whole trip was simply an amazing and unforgettable experience I’m still on a high!

For me riding the Icelandic horses on their home turf and mastering the different gaits from tölt to flying pace was absolutely exhilarating and gave me such a sense of achievement.

I had been pre-warned that Iceland would take my breath away and by the time I got to see the horses, I had already decided that I was coming back.

Each day was both an adventure and a challenge, fording glacial rivers on horseback without being swept away by the strong current, experiencing strong, cold wind

and cultural information. Herding a hundred plus Icelandic horses, we rode two or three horses each day along routes, which were both and rain and bunking down in a exciting and challenging. Iceland cosy cabin bed at the end of a is remarkable for the number of tiring but exciting day. I was volcanoes, craters, glaciers and having such an amazing time I thermal springs, which make up didn’t feel tired or cold, I just these stunning landscapes. didn’t seem to notice!

Evening camps were set up at I enjoyed such good company and suitable holding areas for the hospitality all week and made lots horses and once they were fed of new friends. Everyone showed and watered, we feasted on respect and worked together as a traditional Icelandic dishes and team. The local guides who enjoyed the beauty of the night accompanied us throughout the skies, and sang Icelandic songs trip gave us a wealth of historical well into the night.

Challenge yourself: Alpujarra Ride, August High in the Sierra Nevada mountains, you will ride through one of the most stunning unspoilt regions of Spain far off the tourist track on beautiful Andalucian horses. See olive groves and mountain villages unchanged for centuries, and experience the awe-inspiring scenery.

Iceland Round-Up, September Ride high into the north to return the livestock to the farms before the harsh winter sets in. You will ride at the tölt, on native ponies

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How versatile and willing these little horses are, so strong and sure-footed yet have great temperament and stamina. I just can’t wait to return to ride them again!

”

BHS Viking Challenge Ride 13th-20th August 2016 www.bhs.org.uk/getinvolved/challengerides/iceland

With a World Horse Welfare challenge ride... over extreme landscapes. A huge herd streaming down the mountainside is a sight and sound that will remain with you forever!

The festival at the end of the round-up shows the best of Icelandic hospitality.

Both rides are suitable only for intermediate or above standard riders. You must be fit and able to walk and lead your horse over some of the more challenging terrain. Both itineraries are unique to World Horse Welfare. francesplume@worldhorsewelfare.org

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organise a fund raising event How many of us actually consider every time we get on our much-loved equine friend, how we would cope in the event of an accident, that would potentially prevent us from carrying on our normal lives?

With the statistic that you are 20 times more likely to suffer an accident on a horse than on a motorbike, we are all acutely aware of the risks.

On average, two people per month are left paralysed from a horse fall and many others are left permanently disabled through severe head injuries, not to mention the dangers faced when handling horses on the ground.

With this in mind, why not get together with your horsey friends to organise a fund raising event?

Here we suggest a few interesting and unique ways that you could help: • Go back to your childhood days and hack out in fancy dress providing your horse doesn’t mind - safety first!

• Organise a charity bike ride – perhaps this could span a few days, covering a large distance,

working in a team. Maybe you could plan a route that sees you biking between your favourite horse show venues?

• Set up a rowing machine in your office and between you and your colleagues, row the distance of the English Channel.

• Plan a treasure hunt by foot, bike or horse; this could be around all your favourite hacking routes.

• If you are feeling brave, you could throw yourself out of a plane and do a charity parachute jump. Friends and relatives will always be happy to put their hand in their pocket and sponsor you to do something daring!

Whatever you decide the charity is always happy to provide support to ensure your fundraising event is a success.

Mark Davies Injured Fund is a charity set up to help those that have been affected by a horse related accident, in the form of legal advice, practical help, such as providing a wheelchair or simple moral support to both the victims and their families. www.mdirf.co.uk

What YOU can do for Animal Health Trust...

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is one of the UK’s leading veterinary charities fighting the challenges of disease and injury in animals. 2016 is your chance to join the AHT team in its pioneering work improving the diagnosis and treatment of horses, dogs and cats by taking on your own fundraising challenge… the 2016 Prudential Ride London – Surrey 100 If you would like to swap one saddle for another, why not cycle the 2012 Olympic course made famous by Bradley Wiggins gold medal victory? You will join the Newmarket peloton and pedal your way along gala Race day the amazing route, flying along Charity Riders the 100 mile course!

London Marathon 2016 Running The Virgin London Marathon could be the ultimate fundraising challenge at 26.2 miles round the City. www.aht.org.uk

If you would like the chance to fly past the winning post on one of the most iconic racetracks in the UK, then this is in the challenge for you! It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to ride in the footsteps of some of the greatest horse and jockey combinations the sport has seen. Charity riders will race over one mile of the Newmarket July Course, cheered on by the crowds in the Gala Day grandstand.

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RIDING HOLIDAYS

Saddle up!

By Jenny Richardson BHSAI

It’s the new year, so the ideal time to plan your horsey holiday. Riding trips offer many benefits, from improving your riding skills and making new acquaintances, to developing fitness and challenging your own boundaries. And now is the best time to book, with the new year and spring being the most popular times of year to take a riding break.

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here are my top tips for your riding break Be honest about your experience. If you exaggerate your level of riding skills, you may put yourself in danger.

Get riding fit. Probably the biggest issue that riding holiday guests face is a lack of fitness appropriate to their trip. If you can find time, try and get in some general fitness work before you leave home.

Pick a trip that meets your needs. Truly adventurous rides may actually be very slow, due to difficult terrain, while beach rides can be fast and furious. If this is your first riding holiday, a training centre-based break is probably the most sensible option, as there will be more focussed training.

Pack sensibly. Focus on your riding wear. Your footwear should be water resistant and extremely comfortable. You should ideally take your own lightweight, riding helmet meeting safety

regulations. Also, don’t forget several pairs of jodhpurs, riding gloves, polo shirts and a waterproof coat. For jumping, take a body protector meeting BETA standards.

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Horse lovers explore The Wild Wild Engadin with Nira Alpina

A multitude of horse riding holidays in the Emerald Isle Castle Leslie Estate in Ireland has a horsey holiday package available tailored with you in mind.

Castle Leslie Estate - voted as one of the Lonely Planet’s Top 10 equestrian destinations, the end of the break, you will worldwide - is one of Europe’s feel ready to tackle your regular finest equestrian playgrounds, riding again with confidence! offering truly memorable horse From £998 per person sharing. riding holiday experiences. Castle Leslie Estate welcomes riders of all • ‘Horse sport’ package. For abilities and age groups. experienced riders wanting to expand their skills or try a new Here are some popular riding discipline. Three hours’ packages: riding per day. Dinner and • ‘Learn to ride in a week’ package. breakfast included. Three day A five day holiday featuring break from £619, or five day three hours’ of daily lessons, break from £941 per person culminating in a two hour ride sharing. around the estate. Dinner and breakfast included. From £998 A variety of riding activities is per person sharing. available at the Estate, including a state-of-the-art mechanical horse • ‘Get Back Your Confidence’ (ideal for honing riding skills package. This five day package before mounting the real thing), includes three hours’ of daily and side saddle lessons in full, lessons, culminating in a two authentic riding habits. The Estate hour ride around the estate - by also offers falconry, clay pigeon

shooting, kayaking, fishing, boating, hot air balloon rides, a health and beauty spa and walking trails, meaning non-riding partners and friends can enjoy a different activity while their loved ones take to the saddle.

Meanwhile, the venue offers 64 gins from around the world in its 2 AA Rosette Award winning Snaffles Restaurant; the perfect way to unwind and share stories at the end of the day!

Please visit www.castleleslie.com for more information on holidays at Castle Leslie Estate, where Jenny Richardson is Equestrian Centre Business Manager. (Rates are quoted in sterling; based on current exchange rate. Guests' accounts are settled in euros.)

Not only is the Engadin Valley the birthplace for winter sports such as skiing, ice sports and snow shoeing, but also for top winter equestrian events. This winter, guests can enjoy the beauty of the Engadin Valley on horseback, with the new 'Wild Wild Engadin package' at Nira Alpina.

A guided horse riding tour showcases the region’s beautiful snow-peppered peaks, covered trails and mountain paths while a horse carriage ride captures the Narnia-like atmosphere of the surrounding Valley. The annual White Turf and Night Turf horse racing offers an exhilarating display of horsemanship as they make tracks around the frozen lake of St Moritz.

Guests can then try their hand at Skijoring, a popular equine winter activity often used by cross-country skiers. Here, trained horses will tow skiers across the frozen lake of St Moritz.

The Wild Wild Engadin package runs from 4th February to 8th February 2016.

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RIDING HOLIDAYS Bookings are now being taken for the first full...

Dartmoor Derby start date Friday 23rd September 2016

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Price points vary from £1,250 to £3,500 depending on the number of days riding, nights in camp and choice of hotel accommodation: • £1,250 for three days riding with three nights’ luxury camp accommodation on your own horse (£1,750 with horse hire included); • £2,500 for four days riding with a mix of camp and hotel accommodation (£3,000 with a horse provided); • There is a further mid-range option priced at £1,800 (£2,300 with a horse provided).

Find out more details, read about more Dartmoor Derby Pilot Event experiences and more at www.dartmoorderby.com

Credit Hamish Mitchell/Liberty Trails

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HEALTH & WELFARE

t h e c t V wa

alopecia A

By

Dr Ed Richards BVSc MRCVS

Ryder-Davies & Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

Tel: 01394 380083

Ed is an equine vet based at Ryder-Davies and Partners in Woodbridge. In between calls he can be found training for various different sporting events, walking his dog Rosie or when time allows, out and about on his own horse Buddy.

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lopecia, or hair loss, in horses can take on many different forms; but regardless of the cause, the result can often be very stressful for owners and potentially unpleasant for the horse.

A thorough examination is often required to give an accurate diagnosis as well as a detailed history of the horse’s husbandry; have there been any changes? Is it affecting others in the herd? Is it seasonal?

One important differentiation in cases of hair loss is whether the condition is itchy or not. This is helpful not only in determining whether the alopecia may be selfinflicted, but can also be useful in picking an appropriate treatment option. Other signs that the condition may be self-inflicted other than watching the animal scratch would be evidence of broken hairs on the coat, increased shedding on certain patches on the rug, or evidence of hair on fence posts or the stable wall where the horse has been rubbing. Red skin or scabs are not specific to itchy conditions, but may be a useful indication of how itchy the horse is feeling.

Outside of the obvious reasons for a horse to lose hair, such as friction from poorly fitting tack or rugs, there are 3 main categories for causes of itchiness in horses; allergic skin disease, infectious causes (that could be bacterial or fungal) or parasitic (e.g. lice or mites). Obviously there can be a degree of crossover, for example in horses with sweet itch where the animal develops, or is born with, a sensitivity to the midge’s saliva. In this case the itchiness, and related alopecia, is caused by the allergy which is a result of the parasite, and as many owners are painfully aware, sweet itch can be incredibly itchy for their horses, causing them to rub their hair out.

True allergies in horses are usually diagnosed relatively rarely, which may in part be because there isn’t a huge amount of testing, but mainly because allergies causing hair loss (other than sweet itch) tend to be quite uncommon. This said, the list of things that horses can be allergic to is almost endless, ranging from dust mites to pollen to their shampoo.

Unless there is an obvious cause for the allergy (e.g. new pasture), the most useful diagnostic tool is

intradermal (in the skin) testing.

To do this, small amounts of various different common allergens are injected in a pattern, usually along the horse’s neck, to see if there is any form of reaction and to identify which one is causing an issue. Treatment for allergies also range. Obviously the best form of treatment is to remove the source of the allergy, but failing that drugs such as antihistamines or steroids can be used to alleviate the symptoms.

Sometimes the horse can gradually be de-sensitised to the allergy using a course of injections which gradually increase the concentration of the dose of allergen until the horse can tolerate it normally.

The first thing to say about infectious causes of hair loss, is that they are often labelled under misleading names! Take rain scald for example, many people often assume this condition, which is actually a bacterial skin infection, is due to the rain on the horse’s back; however it can actually develop when the horse has a rug on when it hasn’t even been raining. The condition occurs when the skin becomes warm and moist, leading to an overgrowth

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suffering from feather mites.

Apart from the creepy crawlies, an additional causes of hair loss in horses can be from pin worms.

These little worms live just inside the anus of the horse, however the damage is caused at night, when the female worm crawls out to lay her eggs around the outside of the anus. This is extremely itchy for the horse, and it is very common to see those affected with a large bald patch on the tail!

It is also worth mentioning about sarcoids as a footnote. Although the fungus to grow can be as long the “chewing” or “biting” lice, strictly an infectious cause of as 6 weeks, so often if ringworm is which prefer to live in the finer, potential alopecia (they are suspected it is better to treat shorter hair of the flanks and neck, thought to be caused by the whilst waiting for the culture so called because they eat the skin bovine papilloma virus), they results come back. A faster rather than the blood. Both types differ largely from the bacterial diagnosis can sometimes be of lice can often be seen moving skin infections and so may be reached through microscopic through the coat, especially the considered separately. Sarcoids do evaluation of the hair, but this is biting lice, making diagnosis not always cause hair loss, and are not always reliable. Treatment relatively easy; however getting rid often not itchy enough to be a involves a combination of hygiene of them can be very tricky! cause of self-inflicted alopecia, (washing all the tack, rugs, stables Treatment for lice comes in the but depending on the type, they etc.) and bathing the horse with form of medicated shampoos and may interrupt the hair growth medicated shampoo although the sprays, but the most important causing a bald patch to appear. condition is often self-limiting. thing is to remove the lice from Treatment is varied so it is always Parasitic causes are often easier to the environment with appropriate best to consult your vet if diagnose, but not always easier to hygiene. concerned. treat. The most common type of Another parasitic cause of There are of course other, much parasite to cause alopecia in the alopecia is mites. Although less rarer causes of hair loss not majority of horses is lice. Lice live common in lighter horses, feather mentioned in the article such as in the hair and skin of animals and mites can be a real problem in hormonal imbalances and people and although there can be heavy horses, causing stamping, chemical burns, but it is safe to some cross over between species, kicking, self-trauma from the assume that if you are worried it isn’t usually a problem. There itching and related hair loss from about alopecia, and there isn’t an are two different types of mite, the scabs coming out. Horses are obvious cause such as rugs or both which affect horses, but in also susceptible to other types of tack, then your horse would different ways. The first are “blood mite which affect the hair of the probably benefit from some sucking” lice, which often live in mane and/or body, although less treatment or a visit from the vet. If and around the mane and tail, commonly than lice. Treatment you’re concerned then you could although can be found elsewhere. for mites is similar to that of lice, always take some photos and These creatures cause little holes medicated shampoos and washes send them in to your vet for a in the skin, which can then with appropriate hygiene regimes discussion, but be aware that become infected, increasing the to clean the environment and all often we need to see the area in itchiness further, which then the tack/rugs etc. Clipping the question to be able to give you a encourages the horse to rub the feathers from the larger horses is better idea of cause and hair out. The second group are also a useful step to help those treatment.

in horses of the surface skin bacteria which in turn cause scabby lumps. These crusty lesions then lead to alopecia as the hair comes away with the scabs. Similar to rain scald but on the lower limbs is mud fever. A plague of many horse owners on clay soil, mud fever is a superficial bacterial skin infection caused or at least worsened by the skin becoming constantly wet. Again, hair loss may be seen as the scabs fall off.

Another commonly misunderstood infectious condition is ringworm. Despite the name, there is no link between the fungal skin condition “dermatophytosis” and worms!

Ringworm often presents as round, sometimes shiny, scaly, plaques on the skin, often occurring in the autumn and winter months, which can range from being unbearably itchy to having no effect at all. Care must be taken with ringworm because it is incredibly infectious both to other horses, but also to people too! Diagnosis cannot always be made by visual inspection alone, but hair plucks and fungal culture can be used to get a more definite answer. This can be a slow process though as the incubation time for

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HEALTH & WELFARE

antimiCRobial ReSeaRCh CoLLECtioN PUBLiShEd oNLiNE To coincide with the European Antimicrobial Awareness Day the Equine Veterinary Journal has released a special online collection of articles on antimicrobials. The collection is free to all readers and highlights the current understanding of equine antimicrobial resistance and how the profession can preserve the effectiveness of these essential medicines.

Antimicrobial resistance is an emerging clinical problem, recognised internationally as one of the largest threats to human and animal health. All major health and veterinary organisations are working to try and limit the development of resistance so that effective antimicrobials can be retained for use in clinical practice.

Professor Peter Clegg, Associate Editor of the Equine Veterinary Journal said: “It remains to be determined how big a problem antimicrobial resistance will become for the equine veterinary profession, either through greater

Incisional infection is a chronic complication of colic surgery

Many horses will have discharge from the incision after colic surgery

difficulties in treating horses, or through political pressure to restrict access to antimicrobials.”

Mark Bowen, President of the British Equine Veterinary Association and guest editor said: “This year we have released resources around Education, aimed at the profession through EVJ and to the horse owning public through development of material that can be provided alongside antimicrobial

dispensing. The work of the for as long as is possible.” equine profession in preserving Visit http://bit.ly/1QhOo7b the highest priority antimicrobials will ensure efficacy can be retained

The RSPCA is reminding members of the public to consider the welfare of animals, particularly horses, when using drones and remote controlled devices, following the death of a police horse.

Drones are remote controlled flying devices which usually have cameras attached, and their popularity has soared within recent years. Anna Hemmings, manager at RSPCA Lockwood Centre, said: “We would urge anyone with a drone to check their surroundings before flying and to avoid using drones near paddocks, livery yards, riding schools, bridleways and farms.

“If you are planning on using a drone as part of a specific event, we would ask that you inform local farmers and horse owners. Horses can be easily spooked by unknown objects, such as drones and remote controlled devices. A frightened horse can pose a danger to itself and other people and, had this horse had a rider on board at the time, they could have suffered a serious injury or even been killed.”

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around the world with Xl Vets!

Members of the XLVet community, a collaborative group of independent farm, equine and small animal veterinary practices across the UK, have raised over £35,000 in a recent charity challenge to travel the world without an engine!

“To mark the 10th anniversary of XLVets, all 53 member practices together travelled a total of 34,727 miles to complete the challenge, the equivalent of almost one and a half times around the world, by running, kayaking, swimming, cycling and walking their way throughout the UK,” says event organiser, Jane Simpson.

“The XLVets practices have shown how independent practices can work together to achieve amazing results.”

viSitS to thE gREAt oUtdooRS REACh ReCoRD high A record three billion visits were made to England’s great outdoors over 2014/15, according to a recent survey.

Between March 2014 and February 2015, it’s estimated that the 43 million adults living in England made a total of 3.12 billion visits to the outdoors.

ReSPonSible RiDeRS SEEK oUt thE CAUSE oF BEhAvioURAL ChANgES

In a recent online quiz by Petplan Equine, one of the UK’s leading specialist equine insurance providers, riders were invited to answer a number of questions designed to test their response to common situations that can occur and show to what degree they are a responsible rider.

The Petplan Equine responsible rider quiz focused on best practise in horse health and wellbeing but also included questions that related to accident prevention with the aim of increasing awareness of the importance of and what it takes to be a responsible rider.

For the majority of the 15 questions, at least 85% chose the top-scoring answer. The one where rider opinion was evenly split involved the following dilemma: Your usually well-behaved horse begins to nap and buck when ridden. Do you: A. As this is very out of character ask the vet to check him over assuming the seemingly naughty behaviour is because he is in some sort of discomfort; B. Make sure you remember to wear spurs and carry a whip next time you ride him – he’s not going to get away with that kind of behaviour, someone could get hurt; C. Check him over for any lumps, bumps or scrapes that may be making him uncomfortable and get your saddler to come out and check the fit of his saddle at some

point.

More than 7000 riders responded to the question with 51% opting to call the vet and 48% deciding to check for lumps and bumps and call the saddler.

With 99% of the respondents opting to seek advice from an expert, it does show that horse owners and riders are increasingly looking to identify and understand the reasons for changes to their horse’s behaviour rather than just assuming the horse is being naughty and dealing with the behaviour rather than the possible underlying cause.

However, the response highlights the familiar dilemma of when to call the vet. Petplan Equine veterinary expert, Gil Riley, explains: “There are many reasons why a horse may suddenly start to

misbehave and riders should always look for the cause before addressing the behaviour. A horse’s response to pain is to try and escape it and this can manifest itself in napping, bucking, rearing and even bolting.

The pain may be caused by something as simple as a badly fitting saddle or an excessively tight girth but it could be due to something more serious such as an infected tooth, gastric ulcers, a pulled muscle, a foot condition such as navicular syndrome or a neck or back problem.

“When a horse does start to show signs of unwillingness, it should always be carefully checked over for any clearly visible signs of injury such as a sore mouth or back. However, if the behaviour persists beyond a couple of days with no obvious cause then the vet should be consulted.”

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HEALTH & WELFARE Petplan & AdCh Animal Charity Awards Case Study: Charity: Redwings

Double trouble in an Ipswich field Twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, all year round, staff and volunteers at equine charities work tirelessly to provide a better life for horses, ponies and donkeys across the UK. In recognition of the invaluable work performed by equine charities Petplan and sister brand Petplan Equine, are hosting the Petplan and ACDH Animal Charity Awards for the fourth year running. These awards, for which the public nominate those who regularly go the extra-mile, recognise the hard work, dedication and commitment of those involved in equine welfare.

Every rescue, rehabilitation, ongoing care and rehoming case for the Redwings equine charity involves dozens of individuals, from the Chief Executive to the centre staff and volunteers, veterinary surgeons and fundraisers, who all play a crucial role. The miraculous recovery of Whitney, a severely neglected

Whitney in the Anderson Sling

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Whitney

skewbald mare, is a real credit to the dedication of senior field officer and Reception Centre manager Julie Harding and her team.

In January 2015, Redwings’ welfare team received a call from a concerned member of the public about a severely underweight horse that was suffering from diarrhoea. That same day, Julie attended the field in Ipswich, Suffolk, where she found Whitney in an emaciated state and in need of urgent veterinary attention.

On the same visit, Julie also identified another mare showing signs of serious neglect – a piebald cob they named Maggie.

On veterinary grounds, the two

Whitney and Julie Harding

required the aid of an Anderson Sling to stand.

“She simply had no strength to stand or move”, explains Redwings welfare veterinary Woeful neglect surgeon Nicola Berryman, who As well as being woefully was responsible for Whitney’s neglected – resulting in a body veterinary treatment and, condition score of 0.5 out of 5, untreated worms, lice and the skin together with the rest of her team, condition rainscald – it was soon worked around the clock to care for the mare. “Her legs would discovered that Whitney was suffering from salmonella. The 3- tremble beneath her own weight, meaning she was at constant risk year-old mare was so weak as a result of her suffering that for the of collapse and therefore needed first month in Redwings’ care she the support of the sling and 24horses were immediately seized and taken to Redwings to receive emergency treatment.

Whitney and Maggie

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hour care from our farm team.”

“There were times when we really didn’t think Whitney would make it,” reflects Julie. “We would stay with her throughout the night to ensure she was as comfortable as possible while in the sling, but it was really touch and go for her.

She now looks amazing, unrecognisable from the emaciated mare I found that day.

Although her recovery is ongoing I am so happy to see her well enough to have finally been turned out with Maggie. I can’t believe it’s the same horse!”

On 7th May 2015, Whitney and Maggie’s owner was served a caution for the neglect of the two mares and the pair have now been signed over into the permanent care of Redwings, where they can enjoy life within the safety of the Sanctuary.

if you know a charity, charity volunteer or employee who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in helping to rescue or rehabilitate horses why not nominate them for an award. to nominate a charity team or individual who deserves to be recognised for their outstanding contribution to equine welfare go to www.petplanequine. co.uk/charityawards.

Nominations close on 15th February 2016.

with Samantha Hardingham

the hormone issue Ah January - all diets start in January or definately on a Monday, the question is which one?

Over indulged on the juice of the grape and facing the turkey bulge? Has it always been difficult to shift, do you always accumulate fat in the same areas? Do lots of exercise, but still sticks in the same place? Most 'diets' that cut out sugar, processed foods, alcohol and starchy carbohydrates will work for 90% of the population but the other 10% really struggle and when you start to delve deeper that is due mostly to hormonal imbalance. Out of balance hormones can cause havoc with your weight and can easily be reversed.

Our weight is controlled by our hormones and the normal stresses of everyday life, work, arguing, worrying about finances or affairs of the heart etc are just one type of stress on the body.

The others are: Physical Stress - over/under exercising, aches and pains, poor posture, injuries and poor/lack of sleeping.

Chemical Stress - pesticides, fertilizers, general polution and synthetic chemicals.

Electromagnetic Stress - Microwaves, radiation, computers, tv and phones especially late at night.

Nutritional Stress - over/under eating, yo-yo dieting, sugar, refined carbohydrates and consuming processed or artificial foods.

Obviously this is a complex issue so this is a somewhat reduced article but all the above

stressors play a massive part in our lifestyle and weight loss. The hormones cortisol, insulin and oestrogen are designed to be used in small amounts but not for long periods of time and when they are they become fat storers.

Cortisol - accumulates fat around the midsection and tummy area, to reduce this relaxation is the number one criteria, reduce alcohol, introduce some meditation and eat regularly and get a good nights sleep.

Insulin - accumulates in the upper back and muffin top area, reduce starchy carbs and processed foods, eat good fats and a higher level of protein.

Oestrogen - accumulates in the hips, thighs and backside, eat lots of green veg and reduce soy, dairy, sugary and processed foods to detoxify.

Of course it goes without saying that you also need to drink plenty of water with a couple of mugs of green tea a day.

If the hormones are balanced the weight will take care of itself!

Join my next 21 day nutritional challenge which starts on 11th January.

Visit website for details.

Tel: 07740 047279 http://meta.fitness/home

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HEALTH & WELFARE

‘Treat and Test’ targets small redworm control for horses In their mission to promote correct parasite control in horses, postal worm count specialists Westgate Laboratories, are again offering their popular winter resistance test aiming to target the treatment of small redworm.

The winter offer encourages horse owners to treat for the potentially fatal encysted stages of small redworm and to test for resistant strains of the parasite to ensure that their worming programmes are working.

Results from previous winter resistance testing revealed that of 560 horses tested*, 40% of those wormed for encysted redworm with a fenbendazole based drug had parasites that were showing some resistance to the wormer compared to 2.8% of horses wormed with a moxidectin based drug. Worryingly the results also showed that 50% of those with a positive redworm count that had been treated with moxidectin had been under dosed, leaving those horses more susceptible to

Training Made Simple

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developing resistant strains of redworm.

In all cases Westgate were able to follow-up with customers and advise an alternative treatment to ensure each horse’s worm control was managed.

“We would encourage all horse owners to treat for encysted small redworm in winter, regardless of their worm count status, unless they have clearly assessed the risk of not including this winter dose,” commented Kristy Hodgson, Operations Director and SQP at Westgate Laboratories.

“Although encysted redworm don’t lay eggs and therefore can’t be detected by a worm egg count, not all worms encyst and we still see many high counts during the winter. Resistance is a real problem that horse owners face and the statistics we’ve gathered from previous years also highlight the need for correct dosing to the horse’s weight.

“There is a lot to be gained from including a winter worm count in your programme especially when done at the right time. This simple

*Statistics taken from a sample of 560 horses tested for resistance over the winters 2013/2014 and 2014/2015.

treat and test that we’re suggesting can help to pinpoint potential problems and offer peace of mind that these important issues are being dealt with effectively.”

Encysted redworm should be treated annually between December and February with either a single dose of a moxidectin-based wormer or a five-day course of a fenbendazole-based wormer. The use of wormers at other times of year should be targeted based on

Are you struggling to make progress with training your horse? Or do you want to try different techniques to improve the success of your partnership? Are you stuck for ideas as to how to move forwards with your horse? If any of these sound familiar, turning to Equine Education can really help.

Equine Education offers a range of online courses to equip horse owners with essential knowledge to improve their horsemanship skills. The first course starts

the results of faecal egg counts and EquiSal saliva tests.

The winter resistance test from Westgate Labs is just £5. To take advantage of the offer simply send the box end of the wormer with the batch code from either Equest, Equest Pramox or Panacur Guard from the treatment with the faecal sample to test to Westgate Laboratories.

Take the sample 2-4 weeks after worming. Special offer valid until 29th February 2016.

on 1st February 2016 and looks at the training of the horse and gives expert advice on the most appropriate techniques to use.

These courses are an excellent way to gain more knowledge from a reliable source without time constraints. Due to the flexible nature of the online course provider, you can work through the information at your leisure and all you need is a computer and internet access. www.equine-education.com

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Q

In this monthly column, EAST will be answering your questions on Natural Horsemanship...

Horses that drag their owner to the field have learnt to push through pressure - we put pressure on the lead rope and instead of yielding to this pressure they push harder on it.

A:

Horses learn when they get release so if they learn that pushing harder gets a release, they will continue. Instead we want them to get comfort from yielding to the pressure.

Thick headcollars also encourage horses to lean into pressure as it is comfortable for them to do so.

To teach your horse to yield to pressure, rather than push harder into it, start in a safe enclosed space before trying it out on the way to the field.

To help your horse learn to yield to steady pressure on the headcollar, ideally have your horse wearing a halter made of thin rope (such as a Parelli Natural Halter) that is comfortable to wear but

NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP

“My horse drags me from the stable to the field can you help?”

uncomfortable to lean on.

Apply pressure to your horse’s nose, lightly at first and then gradually increase the pressure until your horse steps back, at that moment release the pressure, as this teaches your horse that he has done the right thing. The better the timing of our release, the faster the horse will learn.

Repeat this until your horse learns that to get release he needs to back up. Then repeat this walking, have your horse on a loose lead rope and when you want him to stop apply pressure lightly and gradually

increase until he stops, then release the pressure. This will help your horse understand to yield when you put pressure on the lead rope, rather than push harder and drag you.

Another strategy that can help, especially if your horse pushes into you, is to use rhythmic motion to defend your space. A good way to do this is to twirl the end of your lead rope like a windmill. Have your horse behind you and twirl the lead rope as you are walking. If the horse walks faster than you then he will walk into the rhythmic motion

of the lead rope; this will help him to adjust his speed of walking so that he walks behind you, avoiding the rhythmic motion, rather than dragging you to the field.

In the Parelli programme the first 3 games Friendly Game, Porcupine Game and Driving Game will help your horse learn to yield to pressure, rather than push through it, and improve your leading to and from the field.

If you need further help or advice on leading safely contact your local Instructor.

EAST is a group of Parelli Professionals based in East Anglia who teach the Parelli Programme to individuals in the area, either with one to one tuition or group lessons.

You can find more information or locate your local instructor at: www.parelliinstructors-eastanglia.co.uk

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SAFETY

New Year, new riding hat?

2016 HAS NOW DAWNED AND ALTHOUGH THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY WE AS RIDERS MAY NEED TO REPLACE OUR RIDING HAT AT ANY TIME, WITH THE TRANSITION TO 2016 THERE WILL BE AN ADDED REASON WHY YOU MAY NEED TO CONSIDER A NEW RIDING HAT PURCHASE. TONY PALKOWSKI, CHIEF TECHNICAL ENGINEER AT CHAMPION - ONE OF THE INDUSTRY’S LEADING SAFETY EXPERTS - GIVES US SOME INSIGHTS. There are many reasons to purchase a new riding hat – if you’ve had a fall and your hat sustained an impact; if you dropped it onto a hard surface, or if you’ve had your hat for more than 3-5 years, depending on use. In all these situations your hat will have served its purpose – to protect your head – and it’s time to

get a new, up to standard riding hat, to ensure continued protection.

Another reason riders must bear in mind as 2016 has now arrived, is the fact that the popular BSEN1384 riding hat standard was withdrawn by the governing body in charge of standard regulation at the end of 2014 and this withdrawal will start to have

Spoilt for choice

Champion Ventair (Above) Chosen by many of the world’s top event riders including Pippa Funnell, Piggy French and Kitty King, the Ventair Deluxe Skull cap is extremely lightweight and comfortable, whilst offering outstanding protection. The Ventair features a design registered ventilated airflow system that is styled to increase airflow to help keep your head cool. Available in black, pink, navy or silver.

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implications for riders planning to compete from this year.

Many of the governing bodies for equestrian sports continued to permit BSEN1384 hats in 2015 but not from this year, including British Eventing, British Showjumping, British Riding Clubs and The Pony Club; while British Dressage is continuing to permit hats certified solely to

BSEN1384 in 2016, but not from 2017. As a result, it’s important that you check with the organisation in charge of your own competitive discipline to confirm the rules you must adhere to before going to your first competition, as if your hat is the wrong standard you may not be able to compete.

It’s important to understand,

CHAMPION OFFERS AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF STYLES OF HATS AND HELMETS CERTIFIED TO PAS015, SO YOU CAN BE SURE TO FIND THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU.

Champion Evolution Couture (Left) If you’re looking to add a little extra sparkle to your look, the Champion Evolution Couture fits the bill perfectly.

Featuring genuine Swarovski crystals and a striking synthetic crocodile skin finish, the Evolution Couture is a stylish, low profile, modern and lightweight hat built with a glass fibre shell for outstanding protection. Incorporates a high tech ventilated airflow system to help keep your head cool as you ride.

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however, that if you have a hat certified to BSEN1384, it is still safe - BSEN1384 hats offer excellent protection, have lessened injuries and saved countless lives over many years.

You can continue to enjoy the comfort and protection offered by your BSEN1384 hat while riding and training at home indefinitely, as long it remains in good condition over the 3–5 year period as recommended above.

The primary alternative to BSEN1384 is the PAS015 specification. PAS015 is the only British standard and is unaffected by this rule change. Consequently, PAS015 standard hats can be worn under competition rules for all governing bodies going forwards into 2016. If you need to purchase a new hat, Champion recommends that you seek the

assistance of a BETA approved retailer who has been trained in fitting hats as they will help make sure that your new hat fits you correctly and that it is the best style and fit for your head shape.

Champion was the first hat manufacturer to make hats to PAS015 over 20 years ago and offers a comprehensive range of PAS015 certified riding hats and helmets. All Champion hats are made here in the UK at the Champion factory in Cardiff and Champion is the brand of choice of riders of all levels – from Olympic medallists to grass roots competitors.

If you have any questions or concerns on this issue, contact your local retailer, your local riding centre, or the association within which you compete or ride. They will be able to help you.

Champion Junior X-Air Dazzle Plus (Above left) With a dazzling coloured centre panel and sparkling silver vent, the Junior X-Air Dazzle is designed to make little Champions sparkle. Built upon a lightweight injection moulded shell with a soft 4 point padded harness, the Junior X-Air Dazzle incorporates a vented air flow system to help keep young heads cool.

Colour: black/black, black/pink, black/silver.

Champion Evolution Pro (Above right) With a sophisticated multifaceted carbon pattern appearance, the new Evolution Pro incorporates a high tech ventilated airflow system designed to keep your head cool and comfortable.

For more information on the entire Champion riding hat and body protector collection see www.championhats.co.uk

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SAFETY NOT MANY YEARS AGO HI VIZ CLOTHING IN THE SAILING WORLD WAS A RARE SIGHT; NOW ALL SAILING CLOTHING COMES WITH HI VIZ FEATURES AS STANDARD. DISAPPOINTINGLY, EQUESTRIANISM IS STILL LAGGING BEHIND. HILARY MANNERS LOOKS AT A NEW COMPANY AIMING TO CHANGE THAT...

The aptly named and recently launched Luminosity retails and distributes 'bright ideas for wise riders'.

It will be launching Visijax wearable technology to the equestrian market at the BETA International trade fair this month so soon their jackets will be available not just from luminosityonline.co.uk but also

Spotlight on Luminosity...

Light up and live! from equestrian retailers across the UK. Company spokesperson Andrea Worrall explains: “As a rider, dog walker and driver I am very aware of the risks involved when out on the roads, however rural. I wear hi viz clothing and I am astonished how few riders do the same. On more than one occasion when behind the wheel I have spotted

Why Higher Viz? • Midlands Air Ambulance attends one horse rider every four days • On average 104 road accidents involving horses were reported to police in 2014.

• Hi-viz and illuminated clothing maximises visibility from the air.

• Gives drivers a crucial extra three seconds’ braking time.

• Enables low flying aircraft to spot you and manoeuvre away.

• Lights improve visibility in the darkest conditions.

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someone out hacking in bright, as well as failing, light later than is ideal to allow me to slow down sufficiently because they were not wearing hi vis. There were 104 road accidents involving horses reported in 2014 and it is believed many accidents, even serious ones go unreported.

“If riders only stopped to think about it, would they really be able to live with themselves if their horse was hit and badly injured or worse just because they hadn't invested in hi viz clothing? There is a plethora of products from boots to hat covers, exercise sheets to breast plates on the market from a variety of retailers.

The good news is manufacturers are now looking to technical fabrics used in other sports such as cycling and sailing and considering the importance of

fashion as well function. Add to that modern technology and being seen and keeping safe has never been easier.”

The Luminosity team has entered into an agreement with manufacturers Visijax to bring hi viz products featuring wearable technology to the horseworld.

The stylish jackets and gilets come with an ‘In Case of Emergency’ ICEid tag as standard, enabling first responders to an accident quick access to medical and next of kin information. Hugely popular with cyclists, the jackets are totally rainproof, breathable and lightweight, so can be worn over layers in winter and over a Tshirt in summer. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the range sports reflective strips and flashing waterproof LED lights, red on the back, white on the front.

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Wearing hi viz gives drivers a vital three seconds’ additional breaking time. “A driver's automatic reaction to seeing a red light is to slow down; which could extend the braking time even further. The sooner the driver can slow down the more likely a potentially catastrophic collision may be avoided,” Andrea points out.

For riders who rarely venture out onto the road, hi viz is still important. Horses are flight animals and accidents can happen even with the quietest and most well trained among them. Much has been written in the media about low flying aircraft and a pilot's need to see a rider in plenty of time in order to avoid them.

Additionally, should you fall off and suffer an injury, particularly away from a road, you want to be found easily.

Experienced RAF Search & Rescue Paramedic Winchman Haz

Product news...

This Commuter Jacket includes front and rear lights as well as sensor led indicators on the front and back of the arms.

Just raise your arm to signal your intention to turn or wave traffic on and the indicators light up. www.luminosityonline.co.uk

Hunter, himself a keen rider, supports Andrea’s points about the number of riders who choose not to wear hi viz. “Wearing the right hi viz clothing really can be the difference between life and death. Not only can road users see you sooner, but should you have an off-road accident, you are much easier to spot from the air

by Search & Rescue or the Air Ambulance. As I've witnessed all

too often, the time taken to find a casualty can have life-changing consequences,” he says. “I would never leave the yard without putting hi viz both on my horse and myself.”

A relatively small investment could end up paying vast dividends both for you and your horse – you could think of it as an additional form of insurance. After all prevention is better than cure.

Stay safe this winter

The Ackworth Hi-Viz rug features a modern design and vibrant accent colours for a fashion forward look, whilst at the same time incorporating hiviz reflective panelling to improve the safety of both horse and rider. RRP: £60. www.johnwhitaker.com

The Injured Person Response Trailer has been designed to be towed behind a variety of off road vehicles. The trailer will accommodate one patient and two stretcher bearers or medical personnel. The wide profile tyres allow for a smoother ride. RRP £975 plus VAT. www.schsupplies.co.uk

Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund recommends the use of hi-viz clothing at this time of year for both you and your horse, especially if you have no option but to ride on the roads.

The choice of hi-viz clothing on the market today offers something for everyone in a variety of colours and styles. Reflective bands with flashing lights can also be added to your tack and to your horse.

Remember to be courteous to drivers who do slow down, with a thank you and a cheery smile, as this will encourage them to slow down next time they see a horse and rider.

Make sure your hat meets the current standard and fits correctly; a badly fitting hat will not provide the protection required should you suffer a fall. The new Mark Davies Injured Riders’ Fund website has all the latest BETA guidelines on hat standards and advice on body protectors.

Regardless of how bad the weather gets try to allow your horse as much turn out as possible, keeping horses confined to the stable can lead to exuberant behaviour resulting in injuries to both the handler and the horse.

Equisafety’s ECO Range pack consists of a high visibility yellow tabard, hat band and a pair of leg boots. RRP: £29.99. www.equisafety.com

www.mdirf.co.uk

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NUTRITION

Understanding the benefits of...

Sugar Beet Lizzie Drury MSc Registered Nutritionist

ugar beet pulp, a byproduct of the sugar beet industry, has long been a part of equine feed regimens, but that doesn’t mean owners still don’t have questions about it.

Sugar beet pulp is a highly digestible form of fibre (greater than or equal to that of most hays) that offers many nutritional benefits for horses. The microbes in the horse’s hindgut can easily ferment and use it for energy production. It is sometimes referred to as a ‘Super Fibre’.

Sugar beet pulp has an energy value that is higher than that of alfalfa pellets and is close to the value of oats. Therefore, it is a

S

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great source of fibre to maintain optimum hindgut health and calories for added body condition or fuel for performance.

The advantage of using a high energy fibre source is that it also helps to maintain a trainable and manageable temperament and reduces the reliance for the use of cereals and starch in the ration.

Sugar beet pulp beet absorbs and holds water well, making soaked beet pulp an efficient way to increase a horse’s water consumption, especially during the winter when water consumption in horses can decrease due to colder water temperatures.

Sugar beet pulp can be

incorporated in the diets of horses with many different needs.

It can be used as a fibre source for horses with poor teeth. Soaked sugar beet pulp makes a good forage substitute because it is easier to chew than long-stem hay, especially when it is mixed with other alternative fibre sources such as Super Fibre Pencils.

It can support digestive health for horses experiencing digestive upset, that maybe caused by rations that have a high reliance of cereals and starch.

It can also be used as a method of adding body condition onto horses and ponies that are poor doers.

It is a good feed ingredient for horses sensitive to sugar or starch (e.g., insulin-resistant, or IR, horses). Sugar beet pulp is relatively low in sugar and starch and has a low glycaemic index, meaning there is only a small rise in blood glucose following a meal.

There are three forms of Sugar beet pulp on the market, which are shredded (available with or without molasses) and pelleted (typically containing a small amount of molasses to help bind the particles) and micronized (cooked to speed up the soaking time).

Continued overleaf...

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NUTRITION

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT:

good choice for picky eaters.

However, if a horse has true All forms are safe for horses, but sugar/starch sensitivities, the nonthe shreds tend to soak up water molassed variety of beet pulp faster than pellets so preparation would be a better choice. time is reduced.

There is a long-standing myth People are often that beet pulp must worried about the ...addition of be soaked prior to word ‘sugar’ in front of molasses will feeding to prevent the beet pulp but the increase the choke (oesophageal molasses application overall sugar obstruction). rate is typically less content of the However, horses can than 5% and is added beet pulp by choke on any type or to increase the only form of feed if they palatability of the beet approximately eat too fast - beet pulp shreds while pulp itself will not reducing dust content. cause a horse to The addition of choke. molasses will increase Despite the fact that the overall sugar some horses seem to content of the beet tolerate dry beet pulp with no pulp by only approximately 2%; complications, I always therefore, adding the molasses recommend that plain beet pulp does not result in a great increase be soaked if more than 0.5-1.0Kg in overall sugar intake. Adding are fed in a meal, if it is being fed molasses to dried beet pulp shreds as an individual feed or added to increases the palatability and an existing ration, mainly for its helps to stimulate saliva additional benefit of being able to production when the horse maintain hydration. consumes it, which makes it a Continued from previous page...

2%

SARACEN RE-LEVE Re-Leve, is a low starch feed that is full of energy, but the energy comes not from starch but primarily from fat and fermentable or ‘super fibres’. The main ingredients in Re-Leve include soya hulls, alfalfa, sugar beet pulp and soya oil. As Re-Leve contains no cereals it is very low in starch. Re-Leve is only 8.0% starch compared to a traditional high energy cereal based feed of 28% starch. Re-Leve is fully fortified with vitamins and minerals and contains high levels of antioxidants, including vitamin E to help maintain optimum muscle function and recovery.

Re-Leve is also suitable to be fed to horses that are at risk to certain muscle myopathies such as Tying Up and Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (research has shown that when horses predisposed to tying up were fed Re-Leve, they demonstrated less post exercise muscle damage than horses that were fed on traditional high energy feeds containing high levels of cereals); horses that are unable to tolerate high levels of cereal and starch in their rations; those that suffer from gastric ulcers; horses that have excitable temperaments; performance horses that require higher levels of stamina and horses that are more difficult to maintain body condition. www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT:

SPEEDI-BEET A highly nutritious, quick soaking beet pulp feed, with no added molasses, SpeediBeet is 95% sugar free.

Made using only best quality British beet pulp, Speedi-Beet is subjected to a patented cooking process to produce a unique feed.

There's a high proportion of soluble fibre, mostly pectins in Speedi-Beet, which means its fibre is more easily digested than that found in forage e.g. hay. This

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makes it a great source of nonheating slow release energy.

It's starch free and low in sugar, so an ideal feed for horses prone to Laminitis.

Speedi-Beet is extremely versatile.

Feed it in small amounts to overweight horses as a carrier for a multivitamin and mineral supplement or in larger quantities to a poor doer for weight gain, or to a working horse for energy. handle 20 kg bags and retails at Speedi-Beet is available in easy to around £10.95-£11.90.

www.britishhorsefeeds.com

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Happy birthday Honeychop!

Fibre-Beet fuels race winner In training at Foulrice Park Racing, 6-year-old mare, Lil Sophella, had a phenomenal season. Netting three wins and three seconds, the highlight of her season was landing the £25,000 prize pot EBF Stallions Premier Fillies’ handicap at Musselburgh Racecourse in September.

Trainer Patrick Holmes said: “We made some adjustments to Lil Sophella’s feed and routine and she has gone from strength to strength. It is unbelievable that she has improved so much in one season; this is almost unheard of for a 6-year-old. In September of last year she had an official rating of 55, now twelve months on she has won a Premier handicap off a 21lbs higher mark!

“We use Fibre-Beet to increase fibre intake and it also acts as a buffer for stomach acid, preventing ulcers. Lil Sophella is looking fantastic and holds her condition well throughout the season and over winter.”

A Super Fibre conditioning feed, Fibre-Beet is a formulated blend containing all the benefits of the original Speedi-Beet product with added high quality Alfalfa. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

It is an exciting year for the team at Honeychop, as they celebrate their 30th Anniversary, so here’s a little background information on the company.

The Honeychop range is lovingly produced on the family farm in the heart of rural Suffolk. “We use the highest quality Conservation Grade oat straw which is home grown, or locally sourced from our carefully selected British growers at ‘Fair to Nature’ standards,” explained Rachel Haigh from Honeychop.

“As a family business we really do care about your horse or pony.

Our vision is to continue to develop our range of fibre feeds to cater for all diets and requirements. Thanks to our naturally nutritious ingredients, all our feeds are a great source of quality fibre. Fibre should form the basis of any horse or pony’s everyday diet, and what better way to start than with a product from our unique oat straw fibre range.

“We know that using oat straw is important, which is why we use it as standard. Oat straw is softer, more palatable and has a lower lignin content which makes it the easiest straw for a horse, or pony to digest.

“As a birthday present we decieded to give the Honeychop website a makeover so make sure you go check that out.” www.honeychop.com

Winning Formula for Darcy Canadian Para-dressage rider, Bert (Roberta) Sheffield, is a strong believer in a forage-based diet for her potential paralympic squad horse, Double Agent (Darcy).

Darcy was purchased by Bert as a 2-year-old and since then has been fed on HorseHage bagged forage alongside TopSpec feed balancer. Bert believes this has allowed her to grow to her potential and that throughout the process of breaking, growing up and learning to be an international para-horse, her temperament has developed without any of the silliness associated with many young horses.

Said Bert, “I like to feed Darcy a mixture of both Alfalfa and Timothy HorseHage. Its high fibre, low sugar content keeps her head in a ‘good place’ while still giving her energy to maintain condition and strength. She loves the taste and has a wedge instead of a lunchtime feed. This builds flexibility into her routine so she can be worked morning or early afternoon and when we are away at shows she doesn’t have to miss a meal as she happily picks at her Alfalfa HorseHage net in the lorry or on the plane.” www.horsehage.co.uk

“Darcy copes with the most atmospheric of arenas, travelling and being stabled with strange horses in temporary stables”

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NUTRITION IN THIS ISSUE EQUERRY HORSE FEEDS SENIOR NUTRITIONIST, LOUISE JONES PROVIDES ADVICE FOR A...

DRESSAGE RIDER COPING WITH A LIVELY HORSE

Q:

I have a 17hh dressage horse competing at Medium level. He easily drops weight in the winter and is also quite a lively ride, especially when we move indoors. Can you help?

A:

Many horses struggle to maintain condition when competing regularly, especially excitable types who tend to burn off more energy than those with more relaxed temperaments.

The first step to help your dressage horse maintain weight and condition this winter is to make sure that he has free access to high quality forage. During the winter months the nutritional value of the grazing will be limited. However, a few hours of turn-out every day can help to relax a highly strung horse. When it comes to conserved forage (i.e. hay or haylage) you should choose the very best quality available. Early-cut seed hay or a ryegrass haylage are ideal for horses that tend to be poor-doers and will help to reduce the need for concentrate feed.

Forage alone is unlikely to meet your horse’s calorie requirements and it certainly won’t provide him with optimal amounts of quality protein, which is necessary for muscle development. A forage

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only diet will also be lacking in essential vitamins or minerals so your horse will need a suitable hard-feed. However, many conditioning feeds contain starchrich cereals such as barley, wheat or maize, which may exacerbate your horse’s excitable nature.

Instead your horse will benefit from a conditioning feed that provides calories from ‘slowreleasing’, ‘non-heating’ energy sources, such as Equerry Conditioning Mash.

Equerry Conditioning Mash is specially formulated to promote weight gain and condition. It provides a high level of calories (12.5MJ/kg) from ‘Non-Heating’ digestible fibres, including sugar-

Equerry Conditioning Mash is fully balanced with all the essential vitamins and minerals your horse needs including; vitamin E, Bvitamins, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium and magnesium.

As well as being vital for your horse’s overall health some of these vitamins and minerals are also thought to play a role in minimising fizzy behaviour.

Assuming your horse weighs 650kg he will need 3.253.75kg/day Equerry Conditioning Mash. In order to maximise digestive efficiency and avoid overloading the stomach this quantity should be split into at least 2 feeds. Equerry Conditioning Mash should be soaked for 5-10 minutes prior to feeding with equal parts or more beet, and oil (5.25%). Oil is not water to cubes. Plus as a special only very calorie dense it also has treat during the cold winter the added benefit of helping to months Equerry Conditioning promote a glossy, shiny coat.

Mash can even be fed warm by Equerry Conditioning Mash making it with warm, but not hot, contains just 12% starch, less than water! half the amount of most www.equerryhorsefeeds.com conditioning mixes, and so will help your horse to remain relaxed and calm.

Equerry Conditioning Mash also provides good levels of essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein, required for muscle development and topline. It also contains very high levels of yeast which help to promote beneficial fibre-fermenting bacteria in the hind-gut, thereby boosting digestive efficiency. Finally,

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NUTRITION

Case study: Dan Horse: Dan Owner: Vanessa Lee Age: 18 Location: Bridgnorth, Shropshire Sex: Gelding Colour: Skewbald Height: 13.3hh Breed: Unknown (Welsh-type)

Product news...

Winergy Equilibrium Condition contains 10% oil and only 10% starch, giving you the reassurance to build condition in your horse or pony safely. www.winergy.com

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Dan was bought by Vanessa for her daughter, Saffie, eleven years ago.

He was purchased as a safe pony to just hack about but proved to be an excellent all-rounder, with Saffie enjoying many different disciplines with him over the years, including Pony Club games, show jumping and cross country.

He was fed on hay but suddenly developed a serious reaction to it, which caused terrible breathing problems.

“He was blowing so hard his flanks were heaving and his nose was dripping with mucous.” said Vanessa.

Her vet prescribed medication for a couple of weeks and advised her to change Dan’s forage and recommended HorseHage – a product that Vanessa was already familiar with. Vanessa put Dan onto High Fibre HorseHage and from that moment, he never looked back. He has been on HorseHage now for some years and looks wonderful and his breathing issues have not returned.

Said Vanessa: “Dan looks great on HorseHage and it really has made such a difference to his respiratory condition. I am a big fan of the product as it has

Chestnut Horse Feeds have been supplying equine feeds in their unique and innovative bulk bin system for the past 9 years. They produce high quality feeds using home grown and locally sourced raw materials.

Chestnut Horse Feeds are excited to announce several additions to their range including a balancer in a mix form and a cereal free feed.

In addition to the new feeds, their full range of feeds has been reviewed and enhanced in conjunction with an independent nutritionist. www.chestnuthorsefeeds.co.uk

proven to be great value too, as there is never any waste.”

The Product High Fibre HorseHage is made from a selected mix of grasses that are high in fibre and lower in protein and energy levels. It is dust-free – a hugely important factor when considering respiratory health - and contains no chemical additives or mould inhibitors.

HorseHage is high in naturally occurring antioxidants and these play a positive role in supporting lung health. Horses prone to respiratory conditions such as RAO (Recurrent Airway Obstruction) have been scientifically proven to show improved lung function and reduced airway inflammation following supplementation. Horses suffering from RAO should be fed HorseHage from the floor to allow free drainage of the respiratory tract. www.horsehage.co.uk

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NUTRITION IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT COCONUT OIL HAS BEEN THE STAR OF THE HEALTH WORLD OVER THE LAST TWELVE MONTHS, WITH SALES UP 400% AND EVERYONE FROM SUPERMODELS TO OLYMPIC ATHLETES SINGING ITS PRAISES. COCONUT OIL BENEFITS MAY EXTEND BEYOND HELPING HUMAN ATHLETES HOWEVER AND RESEARCH SUPPORTS ITS USE IN THE EQUINE WORLD… One of the reasons coconut oil has become so popular with human athletes is that research indicates it is more readily used by the body as a fuel than other fats, and can therefore help with endurance performance.

Research has shown this phenomenon also appears to apply in equines. In one study scientists found that when horses were fed diets containing either a high carbohydrate mix, a mix with 10% soybean oil, 10% coconut oil, or a mixture of soybean oil (5%) and coconut oil (5%), and then performance tested, those on the coconut oil produced less lactate when galloping, than those on other feeds. A build-up of lactate, a by-product of using glucose as fuel, causes pain in muscles and therefore reduces performance.

Researchers believe that the fats in coconut oil are broken down more quickly than those in other oils and fats, and utilised as fuel rather than glucose, thus reducing the amount of lactate produced

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and increasing exercise performance.

Skin and hair care Coconut oil is made up of various fatty acids, which are important nutrients for general maintenance of skin and hair, whether you’re a human or horse. They act as important building blocks for cell structure and help lock moisture into the skin, whilst keeping the elements and environmental pollutants out.

Whilst coconut oil is generally solid in a UK climate, once rubbed onto a horse’s body it quickly warms up and liquefies making it easy to apply to your animal’s coat.

Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial Research has shown that coconut oil has both anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. If you are looking to apply a barrier to an area the oily nature of the product will prevent water/mud getting directly to the skin whilst having the added benefits of its antimicrobial properties.

Cut the CoCoNuT confusion

By David Ferguson at New Chapter Marketing & PR Which coconut oil?

There are now many coconut oils available, but there are certain things you should look out for before you buy…

Buy virgin, but not ‘extra’ virgin coconut oil - if a coconut oil is called a ‘virgin coconut oil’ it should always contain at least 45% lauric acid (still check the label though). This is a type of fatty acid and is responsible for many of coconut oil’s purported benefits. ‘Extra’ doesn’t mean anything in the coconut oil world so don’t be fooled into spending more money for the term.

Look for ‘cold pressed’ oils – ‘Cold pressing’ literally means just that, pressing the oil out of the coconut flesh, which means it stays in its most natural form.

Picked, packed and pressed at source – this might not mean that the health benefits for your horse are any better, but it will mean more income goes to the local people, often in poverty

stricken countries, who grow the coconuts and produce the oil.

Coconoil is not only a high quality, virgin coconut oil that is cold pressed and picked, pressed and packed at source, but the brand was set up after the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami as a way to help rebuild the livelihoods of Sri Lankan farmers. Today Coconoil helps keep over 200 Sri Lankans in employment and has just started a new project with 200 smallholders from five villages in Ghana, and hope they can replicate some of the success they have seen in Sri Lanka to create new jobs and income streams for those involved. www.coconoil.co.uk

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Case study: Kola Horse: Kola Owner: Lorraine Clarke Cox Age: 20 Rider: Caitlan Cox Main reason for contacting Hack Up: Summer headshaking

“Our 20-year-old pony Kola was struggling this summer with headshaking and I noticed on the Hack Up Facebook page that many horses using the bespoke products showed improvement so I decided I should give it a try.

“Alex Gingell lives in our village so I was able to place the order online and see my product being made that afternoon. It is a fabulous concept and I found it interesting how the process works. “During this time Alex and I discussed Kola’s comfort and movement. After analysing his diet, lifestyle and what we wanted to do with him, Alex formulated a product that would support his joints, comfort and mobility.

“The combination of the two products that Kola has been on this year, have made him such a super pony for

Caitlan. This is fabulous, as we had put a lot of effort into finding Caitlan a pony that she could grow with and begin competitions on. These supplements have given Kola the extra support he needs in his ageing years and have enabled him to be really happy in his work.

“Since we have had him on his bespokes he has been doing long distance rides and training with Marie de Koning, from Bardwell. Our competitions tend to be at Aldeby, where in the summer of 2015 she came third at Jumpcross. Caitlan is now beginning dressage and is keen to attend a Hack Up open day this year, some of which will be on a Saturday. Elizabeth Mills, international dressage rider, trainer and exInternational BD Chef d’Equipe will be training and riding at some of the 2016 dates!” www.hackup.co.uk

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TUTORIAL

Ride like...

IN THIS ISSUE DRESSAGE RIDER LARA EDWARDS DISCUSSES HOW TO LARA EDWARDS GET THE MOST FROM YOUR...

SCHooLING

F

or many riders, schooling can be seen as something of a chore and at the very least, a mind-boggling task that is often avoided. However, others thrive on the challenge and also the satisfaction that flatwork can offer.

Whichever category you fall into, schooling is an important element of your horse’s training routine. It is crucial to make your schooling session as interesting as possible, for the physical and psychological benefit of both you and your horse.

I make a plan for each horse I ride, before I get on. Reflect on your previous session and think about areas that need to be worked on.

Set yourself a couple of achievable goals and try to work toward them when you ride. Never rush when schooling your horse - it won’t go well. If you have only got

20 minutes, try lungeing your horse instead.

A key part of schooling is to make it stimulating so that it does not become monotonous and dull.

Whilst the key to progression in flatwork is repetition, this does not mean that you have to trot in continuous circles. Do not overschool your horse. Whilst repetition is required to teach your horse something new,

I like to break down a schooling session into three parts - the warm up of 10 to 15 minutes, the work session of 20 to 40 minutes (depending on age and level of horse) and then the cool down of 10 to 15 minutes.

To start with, stretching in walk, trot and canter is very important for the horse to enable him to warm up his muscles gradually. If you have a young, sharp or

Halt transition

A former member of the British Young Riders’ dressage scheme, Lara Edwards (Dyson) joined the senior ranks in 2009.

Holder of seven British Dressage regional titles and two national titles, Lara secured her Team GB flag in 2015 after being selected to ride in Le Mans, France on her KWPNapproved stallion, Cyden Bodyguard Moorland.

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unpredictable horse, stretching is not always possible. However, if safe to do so, focus on the horse’s neck being long and low and seeking the contact forwards.

After the initial warm up, you can pick your horse up into a working outline. I use plenty of transitions in my routine, both between and within paces. They should be used on all horses, whatever level they are working at. If you mix them up and keep moving up and down the gears, it stops the horse anticipating and also keeps it

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Using mirrors for correction

Walking at stretch

interesting for him. Transitions are a great way of engaging the hind quarters and helping the horse work over his back.

They also test your horse’s responsiveness, which is key to your training. A horse must be trained to move off the smallest leg aid, into a soft and allowing hand. This can be challenging with lazy horses, especially if they have become numb to the leg.

Equally, a naturally hot horse can be difficult in accepting the leg.

You need to apply the opposite to

your natural instincts; you should take your legs off a lazy horse and put them on a hot horse. If you keep them on a lazy horse, they will become de-sensitised to the leg aid.

Lateral work is great for varying your schooling session and for improving suppleness. Leg yielding helps to move the horse away from the leg and use their whole body. Travers (quarters in, with an inside flexion) encourages flexion through the ribcage and neck, whilst shoulder-in helps to Leg yielding

engage the hind leg.

Remember, it doesn’t matter if your horse makes a mistake, just quietly correct him. If your horse gets something wrong, ask again but if you have to ask a third time, see how you can make the question easier for him to understand. Don’t get annoyed with your horse, because usually he is not being naughty, he simply doesn’t know what you’re asking him.

Make sure you reward your horse for good work and make the session as fun as possible for him.

Finish a schooling routine by stretching again and then give him a good walk to cool down.

Always end on a good note and allow your horse walk breaks throughout the session.

I try to vary my schooling sessions in the horses’ routines so that they do not always get ridden at the same time every day. If the horse accepts that he may be worked at any time, it will make acclimatising to the competition routine easier, when turnout may

Demonstrating shoulder in

not be possible.

Don’t school too much - no more than three days on the trot, interspersed with hacking and pole work, to prevent the horse from becoming stale.

I school my horses with others and alone, so they get used to working in a busier environment as well as concentrating on their own. It is useful to have someone videoing you occasionally so you can pick up on things that you don’t realise when you’re riding.

This is especially useful if you don’t have mirrors to ride with.

Have fun and enjoy schooling there’s so much to learn!

Lifeforce Elite from Alltech Lifeforce Elite from Alltech is specially designed for competition horses, providing a solution to manage the effects that a competitive work environment can have on a horse’s well-being.

Containing all natural ingredients, it supports a healthy immune system, increases the availability of antioxidants and creates a healthy digestive environment.

A 5kg tub of Lifeforce Elite retails at £120 for a three month supply.

For further information please visit www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk or telephone 01780 764512

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TUTORIAL

Ride like...

LESLEY PEYTON-GILBERT

LESLEY PEYTON-GILBERT IS A LEADING GRAND PRIX DRESSAGE RIDER AND TRAINER, AND HORSE PRODUCER. SHE IS ALSO A BRITISH BREEDING/BRITISH EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION FUTURITY EVALUATOR. HERE, SHE SHARES HER ADVICE ON UTILISING LATERAL WORK WHILE HACKING.

Happy hacking!

T

here are plenty of chances to school and train when hacking; always assess the conditions and safety of your location; quiet country lanes and bridleways are ideal.

Shoulder-in and leg-yielding A bonus to riding on the

Lesley pictured here on former ride Woodcroft Garuda K, recommends utilising lateral work when hacking.

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roads/bridleways is that you will usually have long straight lines to ride along. Shoulder-in and legyielding are excellent for increasing suppleness and flexibility. In shoulder-in, your horse bends around your inside leg as the shoulders and front legs are brought off the straight line onto an inside track. On the roads,

it is wise to bend the horse’s head to the right (eg. in right shoulder in), so he is able to see any oncoming traffic; you can bend to the left when off road. To achieve shoulder-in, your outer rein lies right against the neck, or even crosses to the inside of the neck if required, to guide the shoulder inwards. Your inside leg is on the

girth, asking for lateral bending.

The inside rein is away from the neck, as if guiding the horse to bend on a large circle. You should put slightly more weight on the inside seat bone, and should keep your shoulders parallel to the shoulders of the horse, e.g lead with your outside shoulder.

Leg-yielding is when the horse

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Do practise these exercises at home first, before attempting them whilst hacking.

Start leg yield exercises in the middle of a quiet road, and leg-yield back to the edge.

moves forwards and sideways. His body remains straight except for a slight bend at his poll away from the direction in which you are going. With leg-yielding, start the exercise in the middle of a quiet road and leg-yield back to the edge, only doing this when there is absolutely no traffic. Off road, it can be done in either direction at will. Sit on your inside seat bone a

Always take care when road riding; high-vis is of course a good idea!

little more, with the inside leg just behind the girth, pushing the quarters forwards and sideways.

Your outside leg is in a ‘guarding’ position behind the girth, preventing the horse from moving its quarters too far sideways. The inside leg drives, while the outside leg controls. The horse’s head is flexed away from the direction of movement.

Quarters in Travers, or quarters-in, is an excellent exercise to try when hacking. Visualise which ‘rein’ you are riding on, if you were in an arena.

Here, you need the horse’s quarters to move in to an inside track. Crucially, the horse’s head faces toward the movement with slight flexion in the direction of

the bend. So if the quarters are practise these exercises at home moving to the right, so does the first before attempting them horse’s head, fractionally, to create whilst hacking. an inside flexion. Collect and rebalance your horse before asking him to bend around your inside leg - the right leg, in the above example – and put more weight on the inside seat bone.

Bring your horse’s quarters onto Lesley Peyton Gilbert is the inside track by putting your sponsored by WOW outside leg fractionally back, and Saddles, which are holding it there. Use your inside hand softly to create flexion. custom made to order Final advice Obviously, always take care when road riding. Also, do bear in mind that the above aids are generic; each rider has their own aids for specific movements that work with their own horse - ask your instructor for advice. Finally, do

with a unique, patented laterally-flexible tree; plus interchangeable flaps and panels, air flocking and headplates from XN-8X. Visit www.wowsaddles.com 43

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SADDLERY & TACK THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT THE COMPONENTS OF A SADDLE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING EACH PART.

THE SADDLE AND HOW IT FITS TOGETHER orrect saddle fitting is a key part of horse management and it is important that all parts of the saddle fit the horse properly.

With this in mind it is therefore vital to understand the composition of a saddle and the different elements that comprise it.

Do you know your pommel from your cantle?

In this feature we give you the lowdown on all the parts of a saddle to make sure you are saddle wise and ensure your horse is happy and comfortable in his.

Almost all saddles are built on some sort of tree, whether it be made from traditional wood and steel or more modern synthetic materials such as strong plastics and polymers. Whatever materials are used, the tree is the most important single item for characterizing the shape and appearance of the saddle. Some of the more advanced trees which are common in a wide range of saddles today are adjustable. This means that the saddle can be adjusted from a narrow to an extra wide fitting through use of a tree adjuster. Alternatively

C

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adjustable gullet plates can be used to simply adjust the width of the saddle.

Stirrups bars are normally attached to, or sometimes built into, the tree and can be of differing length or adjustable.

Dressage saddles usually have a longer bar so that the stirrup leather can hang further back, allowing the rider to sit in the classical position. On the other hand jumping saddles have shorter bars so the rider’s leg can sit more forward.

The seat is as it says, where the rider sits when in the saddle and the skirts are the sections that cover the stirrup bars.

The panel in the gap between the tree and the horse’s back contains either flocking material or air cushioning. Alternatively it may be pre-formed from a synthetic material or may be a mixture of all of the above.

The saddle flap varies enormously depending on the style of saddle and its intended purpose. Its shape must be cut appropriately according to the discipline the saddle is intended to be used in. A dressage saddle will be cut long and straight, whilst the jumping saddle will have shorter, forward

cut flaps.

At the front of the saddle, the pommel essentially protects the horse’s spinal processes from the underside of the arch of the tree.

The pommel should sit between one and three inches below the cantle, depending on the style of the saddle.

The cantle is opposite the pommel at the back of the seat which is raised and curved.

It is advisable to always seek the advice of a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter when choosing the right saddle for your horse.

Information about the Society of Master Saddlers can be found on the website: www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

Should vets be concerned about saddle fit?

Equine vet Dr Sue Dyson has collaborated with Master Saddlers and saddle fitters Mark Fisher and Sue Carson to produce a practical, illustrated tutorial to help vets understand the significance of saddle fit on the health and welfare of horse and rider.

The article has been published in the Equine Veterinary Education Journal, the official education journal of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) and is free to view until April 2016.

Saddle fitting, recognising an ill-fitting saddle and the consequences of an ill-fitting saddle to horse and rider was produced as a direct result from the discussions at the Saddle Research Trust (SRT) second International Research Workshop, held after the SRT International Conference in November 2015. The paper encourages vets to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team, with saddle fitters, trainers and physiotherapists, to help educate horse owners about the multiple problems that can be caused by ill-fitting saddles. www.saddleresearchtrust.com

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Martin Wilkinson’s

MONTHLY TIP We’ve had such a mild winter and the grass doesn’t seem to have stopped growing but nevertheless it is about this time of year that your horse will start to drop weight especially if you have continued working him or have been hunting. Keep a close eye on his shape, using a weigh tape and have his saddle checked by a Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter – you can check someone’s credentials on the SMS website – www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

Product news...

Premium retailers Dressage Deluxe are delighted to welcome yet another exciting new brand to their virtual shop floor, equine products and bitting brand Bombers Bits. As the largest UK retailer for the ‘Dressage Bit Collection’, Dressage Deluxe will be carrying the Bombers Loose Ring Elliptical Comfy Snaffle. RRP: £62. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

The Dante Dressage and Dante Jump saddles have been designed for optimum performance and a stylish modern appearance. The design helps to keep the rider in a forward, upright position to maximise effectiveness when in the dressage arena. www.blackcountrysaddles.com

The FXL Double Flap Jump/GP Saddle incorporates Childéric’s unique tree technology, which allows the horse greater freedom of movement, thanks to it’s anatomically shaped panels and carefully positioned points.

Prices start at £3,400. www.childericsaddles.co.uk

Sno-Seal Leather Waterproofing not only waterproofs your leather but it also lubricates leather and protects against drying and deterioration.

RRP: £8.95. www.thespanishbootcompany.co.uk

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stables & bedding

A checklist for planning your...

It is a myth that wooden stables do not require planning because they are a ‘temporary structure’ – a myth that could involve a lot of unnecessary expense and trouble.

Without the appropriate permissions, not only it is highly likely that you will be ordered to dismantle the structure but you could also have harmed your chance of any future application being granted.

Planning permission is compulsory for commercial stables, and invariably necessary for all developments, and handling the bureaucracy and red tape is part of the service you get from Scotts of Thrapston, leading stable manufacturers. An appreciation of surrounding architecture, ground levels and sight lines is key to a successful application.

Scotts advice is to always assume that planning permission will be required. If your stables are for a commercial purpose – livery yard, stud or veterinary practice, for example – then you will certainly

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New yard need permission. Most domestic stables and even field shelters will require planning permission of some sort and it is always advisable to discuss a project with the local planning office at the outset.

Special planning controls are in place to protect the countryside.

Broadly speaking, to be acceptable any development has to fit in well with its surroundings, not impact on the amenities of neighbours

and not cause traffic hazards.

If the yard is near to, or adjoining, an existing building or house, then it is highly likely that the design will need to match existing design details or styling in order to blend in. For example, the planning office might request a particular type of roof tile, or a colour for the wooden cladding or require a certain window style to match the local style. This will vary from county to county and may

be stricter in a conservation area or being near to a listed building.

You can reduce the potential environmental impact of a stable yard by citing it in an appropriate place within the landscape (e.g. not on a prominent skyline) and by using existing hedge lines or trees as a visual screen. Talk to your local planning office before committing to anything. Every local authority will have a Local Plan with specific policies relating

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to horse management which might affect your scheme. See Local Planning Guidance notes or even Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) notices relating to horses, both should be freely available from your Local Authority.

The team at Scotts of Thrapston always allow at least 4 months for planning approval. The government guidelines state that applications should be decided upon with 16 weeks, but Scotts experience shows that difficult applications can take much longer to settle. Don’t expect to make an application one month and get approval the next. You will increase your chances of speedy approval if you have first

discussed any potential problems with the local officer, informally approached any neighbours to gauge their reaction and have a professionally presented application.

Scotts of Thrapston offers advice about preparing an application, helps design a bespoke yard to comply with specific requirements and supplies drawings to submit to the planning office. The

drawings show all elevations and include sufficient detail to satisfy the curiosity of the planners.

If the yard is for commercial purposes you might have to submit an initial application before obtaining Planning Permission. This will add to your professional costs and increase the timescale so, again, it is best to speak to the planning office initially.

It needn’t be a trial… the way to clear the hurdles is to seek advice from experienced professionals; Scotts of Thrapston can guide you through the entire process, from initial concept and design through to planning approval and construction.

Contact James or Zoe at Scotts of Thrapston on 01832 732366 or visit www.scottsofthrapston.co.uk

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stables & bedding

FJ Lucas:

Install the ‘Dream Yard’ FJ Lucas & Son manufacture a diverse range of high quality sectional buildings from their large factory that is based in West Dereham, Norfolk.

These images showcase the beautiful bespoke building that FJ Lucas recently installed on a private yard in Cambridgeshire.

The combined unit constructed out of solid timber with Onduvilla tile roof, consists of garages, workshops, stables and a horsebox store and is a totally unique installation designed to the yard-owners exacting requirements.

For more information visit www.fjlucas.com

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QUALITY STABLING DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

Pantile effect Onduvilla tiles for a truly stunning look

See us at leading shows and events throughout 2016!

WWW.FJLUCAS.COM TEL: 01366 500502 FAX: 01366 501005 Horseshoe Farm, West Dereham, Norfolk PE33 9RH

Ab Horse January 2016 pages 46 to 68_Layout 1 22/12/2015 10:00 Page 50

stables & bedding With spring only a few months away, now is the time to start planning ahead for the summer season.

It is a great time to give your yard a thorough spring clean and prepare everything for the coming months.

The long winter with endless dark nights, means less time out on the yard, may have left it needing some care and attention to get it back to looking pristine. Your equipment may need a good sort through as well, so that items that will not be used through summer can be washed and put away ready for next winter.

Your stable is a good place to start and a thorough clean is a great way to begin the season and a hygienic environment is healthier for your horse. Start by lifting and removing any rubber matting and thoroughly wash them using a stiff brush, water and disinfectant.

Then do the same for the floor of the stable and also the walls and doors. A pressure washer is ideal for lifting dirt and grime and giving a powerful water supply to produce a great finish. Let the floor and mats dry and the stable air before replacing the mats. If your stable door has become swollen with the rain over the winter, use a hand-held plane to take a bit off the width until it opens and shuts easily.

If your stable looks dull and in need of freshening up why not try

painting the inside or smartening up the door with wood preservative or paint? Do take care as some products are toxic to animals so they need to be kept away for a certain periods.

However ,other products are safe for animals but can be more expensive.

Next, look at your tack room and if necessary give it a clean and tidy up. It is a good idea to sort out all your rugs and send the winter ones for washing and then back them up to put in storage. Take out your lighter rugs and ensure they are all in good working order and ready to use. If you will be competing this summer, check your kit and make sure you have everything you need and all is in good condition. If there is a list of emergency contact details, make sure that everything is correct and alter if necessary - if you don’t

EQUESTRIAN.COM PROVIDE A FEW HELPFUL TIPS TO MAKE YOUR YARD SPICK AND SPAN!

Get ready to Spring Clean your yard 50

have a list, it is very wise to make one.

Feed rooms and hay stores can always do with a good tidy up so give them a good sweep and remove any cobwebs. Check that all feed bins are in good working order and regularly check rodent traps if you have them.

If you have any plants or grass around the yard, make sure they look smart by weeding any beds and mowing the grass. Hanging baskets with dead plants in should be emptied and potted up with new ones.

When everything is looking neat and tidy, take the opportunity to check the fit of your horse’s saddlery equipment. He may have changed shape over the winter meaning his tack may need adjusting to ensure he stays comfortable.

Spring cleaning your yard is a great way to kick off the season and is sure to make you and your horse feel better! www.equestrian.com

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Product news...

Pamper your equine Stable Zone anti-bacterial bedding powder is highly absorbent, soaking up a lot of your horses urine in the stable, which in turn helps reduce your bedding waste. It also aids with reducing ammonia and odours in your stables. Another great use for this product is in your horse lorry, where some prefer to not have bedding down. This powder is also great for all animal housing, not just your stables, but chicken houses, kennels etc. www.animal-health.co.uk

Quipclean is a low foam detergent for use in your stable as well as your stable tools it is even safe to use on water buckets, feed buckets etc. It is concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Its great cleaning power makes light work of even the most soiled areas and equipment. This product is also great as a patio cleaner and is safe to use on your wild bird feeders.

Defence 7 is a Defra approved disinfectant and a total biocide effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi. www.animal-health.co.uk .

As with all of The Animal Health Company products this range is available in small quantities for the individual horse owner, as well as being available in large quantities for the larger yards.

“Longer times spent lying down are important, as they allow horses to recover from stress and exercise, promoting better equine welfare�, said Christina Rufener, a master's student at the Ethology and Animal Welfare Unit at ETH Zurich, in Switzerland. Nedz Original and Nedz Pro offer cosy, comfortable and absorbent bedding for your horse, which will help encourage your horse to properly rest. www.nedz.co.uk

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PHOtOneWs ❙ TopFest Showing Championships ❙ Topthorn Arena ❙ 7th & 8th November

Champion in Hand Mark Youngs and Rockley beach, Reserve Champions, tara Vaughan and Cosford Fascinator

Ridden Champions, isobel gibbon and Pantycoed little Owl

Kerri skelton and boxmoor Outlaw, Cob winners

Rachel Woodward riding glancerdin express, Open Working Hunter 2'6 class winners

Mandy leek and the tramp, in Hand Youngstock winners

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Mark Youngs and Rockley beach

emily simpson and Fly a Kite, 2nd place thoroughbred Racehorse class

nathan Hawes and Rooney, Junior Handler winners

isabelle stanley on thistledown springboks, novice Working Hunter winners

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Andy Merz Photography

alex Ryder davies on buerside Quake, Ridden show Pony winners

Joe Mace on Rosie, Veteran winners

bryony shave riding anchor bustard, First Ridden winners

Howell Jenkins and Five Winds Monkey Puzzle, Part bred winners

Reserve Ridden Champions, bryony shave and anchor bustard

Champion Working Hunter, brookhall tarquin ridden by Charlotte tuck

emilie Orsan on applebys Manhatten Moonlight, Reserve Working Hunter Champion, Hartcrest Ridden novice winners buccanner and Ruth everard

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PHOtOneWs ❙ Championship Christmas Show ❙ Humberstone Farm ❙ 13th December

e. lincoln and golden dollar, Ridden Part bred winners

above left: M. nolle and H Henry, 2nd place sports Horse above: g. Wilkes and low Housese Comet, Reserve Champion of Champions left: angela Fox and aesthete Fairytale Prince, in Hand Champions

lee Clarke and strictly Cash, Champion of Champions

Eastern Light Photography

e. dott and Missy, Junior Concours d'elegance winners

l. tibble and narrissa, Ridden Foreign breed winners

O. Howard and WHW lyric, 3rd place in Hand Veterans

C. Kirk and Charlie, 2nd place Ridden unreg M&M

O. Murphy and Underhill Pipedream, Reserve Ridden Champions

g. Marks and Pattaya Flight, Reserve in Hand Champions

M. Metcalf and teddesley tallulah, 2nd place lead Rein

C. Humphreys and Prince Oberon, 3rd place Ridden Cobs

C.seaman and lyncrests Mackenzie, M&M Champions

Ab Horse January 2016 pages 46 to 68_Layout 1 19/12/2015 15:06 Page 55

❙ Iceni Group Purple Poppy Ride ❙ Thetford Forest ❙ 22nd November

Event to Event Photography

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PHOtOneWs ❙ Cambridge University United Hunts Club Point-To-Point ❙ Cottenham ❙ 29th November

Members Condition race winners, lough inch ridden by s davies-thomas, owned by liz Harris

ladies Open race winners, sagalyrique ridden and trained by angela Rucker

Mens Open race winners, Consigliere ridden by Jo Hill, owned and trained by alan Hill

the Redoutable Rucker team, winners of the ladies Open race for the forth time in succession sin bin ridden by gina andrews, trained by sandra Fryer and owned

by Mrs i Hodge and Caroline Fryer, 2nd place Restricted Race

3rd place Open Maiden race, Floreat ridden by t donworth, trained by James Owen

Restricted Race winners, tulsa ridden by s davies-thomas, trained by tommy Morgan and owned by dave, tom, ian, Paul Partnership

Richard Weller-Poley

Wonderful Present ridden by R Collinson and trained by andrew Pennock

bengo ridden by James Ferguson, trained by nicholas Wright

4,5&6YO race winners, daidaidai ridden and trained by Wayne Russell, owned by suzie Russell

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the Open Maiden race winners, lilbitluso ridden by g Crow, traioned by Joseph O’shea

Watneys Way, owned and ridden by Charles buckle and trained by Rob Cundy

Presentation cheque to east anglian air ambulance

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❙ East Essex Hunt ❙ Hammonds Farm ❙ 28th November

Team Greyness Snapper

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PHOtOneWs ❙ Essex & Suffolk Hunt ❙ Bildeston Crown ❙ 25th November

Karen Davison White

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lOCal sHOW ResUlts 1st November Wix EC: Evening Showjumping 2’6 1 Josic Brosnan – Harley; 2 Lily Rose – Storm; 3 Clare Dobie – Rupert; 4 Sue Hyland – Hugo. 2’9 1 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; 2 Sarah Macbeath – Tango; 3 Emma Glover – Shamrock Manor; 4 Nicola Ewers – Bally Gunner. 3’ 1 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; 2 Lorna Simpson – Bling; 2 Rachel Chisnell – Murphy; 3 Sarah Wilson – Moyne Mist; 4 James Foxon – Arthur. 3’6 1 Lorna Chisnell – Bling; 2 Danusia Gibson – Quinnie; 3 Sarah Wilson – Moyne Mist.

2’ Ponies 1 Amelia Kay – Prince; 2 Saffron Sutherland – Archie; 3 Amber Marshall – Spot; 4 Lily Cane – Max. 2’3 1 Rosie Hope – Shadow; 2 Amber Marshall – Spot; 3 Hebe Willis – Fozzie; 4 Aime Pomfret – Dusky. 2’6 1 Jess Simpson – Splash; 2 Holly Noakes – Folly Foot Boy; 3 Lucy Hinde – Nolly. 2’9 1 Jess Simpson – Splash; 2 Lucy Hinde – Molly; 3 Lilly Hughes – Ozzie.

8th November Orwell Arena: Deben Riding Club Dressage Intro B Juniors 1 Issy Coone – Kanucca; 2 Tabitha Handy – Tiger Lily. Seniors 1 Elly Barry – Miss Clover; 2 Jill Hillyard – Felix; 3 Jane Shaw – Flame; 4 Danielle Burt – Noel. Prelim 13 Juniors 1 Jess Fosker – Summerhill Joy; 2 Meghan Foreman – Walnut Brown. Seniors 1 Abi Jacobs – Barney; 2 Anna Martin – Llynhelyg Tomos; 3 Rachel Durdevic – Watts Dan; 4 Jane Shaw – Flame. Prelim 18 Juniors 1 Lily Hill – Barney; 2 Meghan Foreman – Walnut Brown.

Seniors 1 Cathy Smith – Will-I-Am; 2 Anna Martin – Llynhelyg Tomos; 3 Elly Barry – Miss Clover; 4 Nikki Sawyer – Monty. Novice 28 Seniors 1 Abi Jacobs – Barney; 2 Sally Goodall – Cleopatra; 3 Stephanie Johnson – RH Where’s Wally; 4 Ginny Rose – Heritage Siperman.

Novice 30 Seniors 1 Carrie Eve – Clevery Prince; 2 Sally Goodall – Cleopatra; 3 Fiona Goldsmith – Basford Autumn Morn; 4 Miranda Sutherland – Beaudacious. Elementary 44 Seniors 1st Carrie Eve – Nemesis; 2 Carrie Eve – Clevery Prince; 3 Fiona Goldsmith – Basford Autumn Morn; 4 Sarah Lock – Mr Yummy.

Abi Jacobs

Kindly Supplied

14th November

10th December

Wix EC: British Dressage

Topthorn Arena: Dressage

Novice Music 1 A Cartledge – Dior VII. Open 1 L Moggridge – Harlequin.

Elementary Music 1 A Desilva – Dons Special; 2 J Hyde – City Slicker; 3 L Moggridge – Harlequin. Medium Music 1 T Kusch – Regrette; 2 L Field – Aktie D; 3 F Gordon-Clarke – Soloway Blackjack.

Medium 61 1 M Dunne – Give It A Look; 2 A Goody – Donnerlord II; 3 D Pack – Felice 41. Open 1 T Downham – Reubens. Medium 73 1 A Uden – Raindance; 2 J Penwarden – Decorum; 3 A Goody – Donnerlord II; 4 J Price – Hoffrat. Open 1 A Smyth – Lanson; 2 E Bird – Sir Bastien. Ad Medium 85 1 H Theobald – Fabia Bee. Open 1 P Hayler – Lonswelt. Ad Medium 98 1 H Theobald – Gabia Bee; 2 H Liddiard – Don Karibia. Open 1 P Hayler – Lonswelt; 2 P Hayler – Woodlander Wavavoom. Ad 105 1 S Butchart – The Govenor. PYO 1 J Binks – Ulani; 2 S Heath – Western Squire. Freestyle Ad Med 1 P Hayler – Woodlander Wavavavoom; 2 R Skeffington – Baker Gardens Monty.

15th November: Prelim 17 1 J Green – Adhed George. Open 1 V Boys – Queen Of Hearts. Novice 19 1 D Bennett – Jack; 2 J Green – Adhed George. Open 1 V Boys – Queen Of Hearts. Novice 22 1 L Clarke-Spence – Jessica’s Law; 2 A Carledge – Dior VII; 3 G Millar – De Voffebeld Nibbit. Open 1 J Burgess – Palo De Nosa; 2 K Petley – Walden Fusilier; 3 S Owen – Stavsdale Jackpot. Novice 39 1 A Cartledge – Dior VII; 2 L Clarke-Spence – Jessica’s Law; 3 G Millar – De Voffebelts Hibbit. Open 1 J Burgess – Palo De Nosa; 2 LK HaywoodRand – Deluxe; 3 L Johnson – Energie II. Elementary 45 1 M Clough – Cemiro; 2 L Clarke-Spence – Jessica’s Law; 3 E Warren – Bally Murphy VIII. Elementary 59 1 C Briggs – Graffiti.

Intro A 1 Ruby Lou Morphey - Bertie; 2 Hazel Pettifor - Rowda; 3 Fiona Smee Etola. Prelim 12 1 Joanna Cole Beethovens Aria; 2 Rachel Cawley Trojan Europa UK; 3 Naomi Shotbolt – Boo; 4 Linda Rowell – Fayette. Prelim 7 1 Joanne Masterson - Churchside Marble; 2 Joanna Cole - Beethovens Aria; 3 Joanne Masterson - Chilham Temple Bar; 4 Linda Rowell - Fayette. Novice 34 1 Jo Masterson – Lewis; 2 Joanne Masterson Churchside Marble; 3 Imogen Hequet – Jasper; 4 Islay Clarke - Danulo Top Card.

Novice 28 1 Jo Masterson – Lewis; 2 Posy Ash – Windingo; 3 Hannah Everitt – Muffin; 4 Caroline Smith - Bright Fellow. Elementary 44 1 Hannah Everitt – Muffin; 2 Jayne Ackland Snow Bincastle Lad; 3 Claire Pemberton – Tiger.

Jayne Ackland Snow riding Bincastle Lad

Ruby Lou Morphey on Bertie

Joanne Masterson on Chilham Temple Bar

Fourteen-year-old Anja Moret from Chelmsford and twenty year old Jade Wood from Wickford took the top spots in the Ariat Blue Chip Star qualifier held at Bury Farm Equestrian in Slapton, Buckinghamshire recently.

With only eight qualifying spots the ninety three starters knew they had to jump a double clear and produce a fast time to have any chance of qualifying for the 2016 Blue Chip Championship finals.

Both girls went into their rounds full of confidence from good results in previous classes over the three days of showjumping.

The win was taken by Anja on Teza Englefield’s 8-year-old Bay Mare Gypsy Chip with a double clear and the fastest time of the class in 34.04 seconds.

Second place went to Jade on her own 11-year-old chestnut mare Qualite Doc, again producing a double clear and another fast time of 34.65 seconds.

Anja Moret

Posy Ash on Windingo

Hannah Everitt on Muffin Spencer Moret

Jade Wood Richard Weller-Poley

Joanna Cole on Beethovens Aria

14th November Brook Farm TC: Dressage W&T Intro B Seniors 1 John Osbourne – Conner; 2 Beth Gale – Déjà vu; 3 Kirsty Chappell – Dony’s Paper Doll; 4 Sally Birmingham – Panna Cotta. Juniors 1 Caitlin Clark – Bellissimo Bess; 2 Hannah Argent – BlackBourne Roger; 3 Rebecca Lockyer – Autumn Dream. W&T Intro A Seniors 1 Jayne Cummins – Vayu; 2 John Osbourne – Conner; 3 Amanda Miller – Nipper; 4 Yvonne Toms – Parker. Juniors 1 Daisy Johnson – Rise Park Replica; 2 Hannah Argent – Blackbourne Roger; 3 Tianna Patterson – Harry Potter; 4 Tianna Patterson – Dah Michaelangelo. Prelim 4 Seniors Sec A 1 Beth Gale – Déjà Vu; 2 Lucie Morris – Oreo; 3 Julie Broom – Ardlea Princess Lady II; 4 Jane Shaw – Flame. Seniors Sec B 1 Kate Granger – Billy Shadow; 2 Laura Morrison – Jerseys Boys; 3 Teresa Ridgewell – Basil; 4 Kerry Bergess – Amadeus. Juniors 1 Jodie-Mae Johnson – Miss Kilkenny; 2 Kayleigh Chappell – Superior Flash; 3 Demi-Mae Roddy – Ice Ice Baby; 4 Emma Jarrett – Rosie Grey. Prelim 13 Seniors Sec A 1 Sarah Goldswortly – Moonlight River; 2 Alison Smith – Crannagh Blue Granite; 3 Elise Roddy – Betty Boop; 4 Justine Armstrong-Small – Wallace. Prelim 13 Seniors Sec B 1 Bryony O’Kane – Prince Murphy; 2 Rhianna Fook – Pie In The Sky; 3 Laura Morrison – Jersey Boys; 4 Kate Granger – Billy Shadow. Juniors 1 Louise Durdin – Jimmy 2 Sjoes; 2 Jodie-Mae Johnson – Miss Kilkenny; 3 Demi-Mae Roddy – Ice Ice Baby; 4 Emma Jarrett – Rosie Grey.

Novice 30 1 Sarah Goldswortly – Moonlight River; 2 Rebecca Court – Grandors; 3 Colleen Taylor – Clorouge Frost; 4 Ruth Barker – Lyle. Juniors 1 Ellie Bull – Inca Futina. Novice 34 1 Justine Armstrong-Small – Carlingsford King; 2 Rebecca Court – Grandors; 3 Colleen Taylor – Clorouge Frost; 4 Katie Marjoram – Just Charlie. Juniors 1 Ellie Bull – Inca Futina. Elementary 42 1 Michelle Ryan – Casey; 2 Olga Stamatakis – Maddie. Elementary 42 1 Kayleigh Chappell – Zhivagos Passion.

Elementary 50 1 Olga Stamatakis – Maddie.

2nd December Wix EC: Evening SJ 18” 1 Ellie-May Downing – Oreo; 2 Lauren Mallett – HRA Griffos Basil; 3 Lacey Rayner – Wydeacre Seraphyna; 4 Lucy Vowles – HRA Connie. 2’ 1 Lucia Carty – HRA Lady B; 2 Holly Gregory – Optomist; 3 Lucy Vowles – HRA Connie; 4 Lauren Mallett – HRA Griffos Basil.

2’3 1 Alfie Bennett – Micky. 2’6 1 Imogen Milner-Moore – Spikeman; 2 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; 3 Jessica Steel – Moo; 4 Jenna Greyson – Desert Kingdom. 2’9 1 Imogen Milner-Moore – Spikeman; 2 Sarah Endean – Bunnow Magpie; 3 Jasmine Hawkins – Paddy; 4 Jenna Greyson – Desert Kingdom. 3’ 1 Leah Hayes – Tango. 3’3 1 Caroline March – Jasper.

59

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ClassiFieds

Classified 01473 Call:

ADverTiSiNG 731222 Horse Bedding

Transport

MARK HOWES

£10 OFF Full Pallet SPRING15AH

C.V.S. (ANGLIA) LTD BEDFORD • AWD • SPECIALISTS

HORSEBOX SPECIALISTS IN MOT PREPARATION, MOT TESTING FOR CLASS 4 & 7 VEHICLES, SERVICING, PARTS, SPECIALIST BODY (Aluminium & Wooden) ACCIDENT REPAIRS

£4.99

Welcome old and new customers to their premises at

HOLYWELLS ROAD, IPSWICH TEL: (01473) 216462 Saddleries

Equine Dentist

Photographers

Juddpurs Saddlery

Karen Davison-White Freelance writer/photographer

On all aspects of country sports, avid supporter of hunting.

Enjoys writing about peoples’ lives and work in the countryside.

Specialists in saddle fitting by Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter.

Most ranges of saddles in stock or we can order.

111 Bedingfield Crescent Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 8ED

Tel: 01986 874800

Always a selection of photographs on http://photoboxgallery.com/karendavisonwhiteimages Specialising in uniquely individual photographic books of your horse, your hunt, or your individual country sport or subject.

Commissions welcome.

Email: karendavisonwhite@btinternet.com www.karendavisonwhite.co.uk

RACHEL BURTON EQUINE DENTAL TECHNICIAN COVERING NORFOLK & SUFFOLK British Equine Veterinary Association qualified and approved member of the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians.

Tel : 07968 445509 www.bedt.co.uk

Horse Supplies

Battlesbridge Mills RUG WA S RE-PRO HING OF & REPA ING IRS

KAY HOWARD

QUALIFIED MASTER SADDLER & SADDLE FITTER • Range of quality new, secondhand and synthetic saddles and accessories.

• Impartial, independent, saddle fitting and advice.

• Mobile workshop.

• Re-flocking, top-ups and remedial flocking.

• Full saddle repair service.

Based in Norfolk, but covering a wide area.

Please phone Kay on (07775) 850400 Registered member

76 60

Horse & Country Shop

Everything for the Horse & Rider Huge range of tack, accessories, stable supplies Tel: 01268 560008 The Mills, Chelmsford Road, Battlesbridge, Essex SS11 8TR www.horseandcountryshop.co.uk

WIX

Fakenham (01328) 851351

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Full range of Horse & Pet, Feed & Bedding Open 7 days a week Indoor schools for hire

01255 870744

Stockist for a wide range of Horse Feeds; Bedding; Supplements; Requisites.

Horse wormers now available Delivery Service. Everyone welcome.

Come and see us at our new larger premises Clipbush Business Park, Fakenham NR21 8SW

www.gjlaninmalfeeds.co.uk

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Country Stores

Transport

Stables

Equine Crematoriums

Surfaces

Suffolk Pet & Equine Crematorium

PEACE OF MIND AT A TIME OF GRIEF 01284 810981 www.suffolkpetcrematorium.com

Peaceful Pets Equine Cremation East Anglia based Prompt 24 hour service

01485 528141 www.peacefulpets.org.uk

77 61

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Vets in the Spotlight

VeteRinaRY COntaCts

Essex based mobile veterinary practice Advanced dentistry, lameness, vettings, reproduction and routine work carried out in the comfort of your horse's home.

Digital X-ray, ultrasound, power tools.

Local ambulatory and out of hours cover.

01371 850532 www.fullerequine.co.uk www.facebook.com/fullerequine

Ryder-Davies & Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS Our experienced equine team offer a range of services throughout Suffolk, South Norfolk & North Essex Services include: • Full lameness investigations • Teeth rasping & advanced dental work • Pre purchase examinations • Vaccinations, worming regimes • Equine reproductive stud work • BEVA accredited practice for chilled & frozen semen • Investigation of breeding problems in mares Facilities include: Inpatient and outpatient stabling with 24 hour care • Digital x-ray, In-house laboratory, endoscope & digital ultrasound.

We offer: Visits on a round-reduced visit fee Yard visit days- no visit fee • Spread the cost health plans Regular client information evenings & newsletters. www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Support Tel: 01394 380083

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Practice in the

Spotlight

Wherry Veterinary Group

Wherry Veterinary Group has been caring for the Equine community of South Norfolk and North Suffolk for over 100 years. We provide both ambulatory and Practice based services to all types of horses from Shetlands to Suffolk Punches.

Our seven vet team prides itself in delivering a friendly, economic and common sense personal service.

Our modern, purpose built premises are easily accessible providing stabling, stocks, a lameness work up area and a farriers forge. The Practice is well equipped with ultrasound, e.c.g., digital X-ray, A.I. facilities, in-house laboratory and motorized dentistry and we have special interests in the fields of dentistry, reproduction and lameness.

However, we are always prepared to refer cases to genuine specialists when necessary.

Wherry Veterinary Group Veterinary Surgery, Hillside Road East, Bungay, Suffolk NR35 1RX Tel: 01986 892771 24 hour emergency service

Wherry Veterinary Group Bungay, Suffolk

Working with you for the health and wellbeing of your equine companions.

Take advantage of our experienced equine team and our modern, purpose built premises.

01986 892771

Important Telephone Numbers Cambridge Equine Hospital tel: 01223 760535 ChapelďŹ eld Equine Clinic tel: 01508 558228 Fuller Equine tel: 01371 850532 Hawkedon Equine Clinic tel: 01284 789428 Isle Veterinary Group tel: 01353 658241 Newmarket Equine Hospital tel: 01638 782000 Rossdales Veterinary Surgeons tel: 01638 663150 (newmarket) tel: 01462 790221 (Hertfordshire) Ryder-Davies & Partners tel: 01394 380083 Wherry Veterinary Group tel: 01986 892771

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sHOWdate diaRY Your Showdate listings for... January/February 2016 Competition. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 5TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Senior British SATURDAY 2ND JANUARY Showjumping. Tel: 01449 EVENTER TRIAL Essex: Wix EC; 711962 Indoor Eventer Trial. Tel: 01255 WEDNESDAY 6TH JANUARY 870744 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton SHOWJUMPING Beds: The Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: College EC; British 01480 700236 Showjumping. Tel: 01234 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The 708400 College EC; British SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Showjumping. Tel: 01234 Farm TC; Senior British 708400 Showjumping. Tel: 01708 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook 687312 Farm TC; Senior British SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Showjumping. Tel: 01708 Easton & Otley College; Norfolk 687312 Showjumping Club. Tel: 07836 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook 276290 Farm TC; Evening Clear Round SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Showjumping. Tel: 01708 Topthorn Arena; Cross Pole 687312 Competition. Tel: 01449 THURSDAY 7TH JANUARY 711962 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton SUNDAY 3RD JANUARY Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

DRESSAGE Suffolk: Broads EC; Tel: 01480 700236 British Dressage. Tel: 01502 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; 476753 Dressage, Intro - Ad Med & EVENTER TRIAL Beds: The Music. Tel: 01255 870744 College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: 01234 708400 Newton Hall EC; Evening SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Showjumping. Tel: 01473 Showjumping. Tel: 01255 785616 870744 FRIDAY 8TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: SHOWJUMPING Beds: The Easton & Otley College; Norfolk College EC; British Showjumping Club. Tel: 07836 Showjumping. Tel: 01234 276290 708400 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated

FRIDAY 1ST JANUARY

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

64

Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 9TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 10TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook

Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 TUESDAY 12TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 WEDNESDAY 13TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 THURSDAY 14TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236

Ab Horse January 2016 pages 46 to 68_Layout 1 19/12/2015 15:07 Page 65

SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 15TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 16TH JANUARY ARENA EVENTER TRIAL Beds: Twin Trees EC; Arena Eventer Trial. Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 17TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; High Fen RC Dressage.

DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn

Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01449 711962 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; British Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 TUESDAY 19TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 WEDNESDAY 20TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 21ST JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage, Intro - Ad Med & Music. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400

FRIDAY 22ND JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 23RD JANUARY DRIVING Essex: Wix EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01473 735732 SHOWING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Working Hunter Show.

Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400

SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SUNDAY 24TH JANUARY ARENA EVENTING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Arena Eventing. Tel: 01449 711962 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; High Fen RC Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 EVENTER TRIAL Beds: The College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 01234 708400 Continued over page

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sHOWdate diaRY Your Showdate listings for... January/February 2016 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Harolds Park Farm; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 WEDNESDAY 27TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 28TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01449 711962 FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 30TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400

66

SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Mini Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Mini Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 31ST JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; British Dressage.

Tel: 01603 731577 EVENTER TRIAL Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Indoor Eventer Trial.

Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; BRC Area 7 Winter Indoor Showjumping.

Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 2ND FEBRUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616

WEDNESDAY 3RD FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 4TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage, Intro - Ad Med & Music. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 FRIDAY 5TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 6TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; THRC Dressage.

SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British

Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Norfolk Showjumping Club. Tel: 07836 276290 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 7TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Dressage. Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 HORSE TRIALS Beds: The College EC; 3 Phase Horse Trials.

Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Norfolk Showjumping Club. Tel: 07836 276290

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Say goodbye to COlD

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