Riding Instructor magazine - Fall, 2020

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Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association

Fall 2020

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Official Publication of The American Riding Instructors Association 6

roup Think!

G When Bigger is Actually Better

By Lydia Fairchok

9

Sponsor Spotlight

By Donna Hartshorn

12 Legal Focus

Avoiding Horse Boarding Disputes – Options for Stables and Owners Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law

14 Consulting on a Sale;

Where are Your Loyalties?

By Gary Cortolillo

16 “JUST” A SCHOOL HORSE

By Didi Arias

18 Business Matters

Oh, No! I’m being audited!

By Carol Gordon, CPA

20 Do You Know The Two Things

Profitable Horse Business Owners Have?

By Doug Emerson

22 Sport Psychology

Success: Restructuring the Fear of Scarcity to a Balance to Maintain

by Laura King, CHt, NLP & Life Coach

25 3rd Annual Guide to Schools,

Colleges and Universities with Equine Programs 30 Cameo’s Cauldron

Feelings as Information

By Cameo Miller

32 Bionic Riders

Joint Replacements Keep Riders Astride

By Tania Millen

Cover photo courtesy Wintec Saddles www.wintec-saddles.com

ARIA Official Suppliers and Sponsors Fall 2020 Published by American Riding Instructors Association 28801 Trenton Court Bonita Springs, FL 34134-3337 Tel 239-948-3232 Fax 239-948-5053 E-mail aria@riding-instructor.com Website riding-instructor.com

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Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

5

lesson while gaining valuable experience among their peers. The novelty of a combined class helps sell the notion, particularly for barns that are not competitive or who have predominantly youth riders. You can use such an event to boost your bottom

Group Think!

When Bigger is Actually Better

line for the month, or to condense your regular schedule so you can take some time off without losing income or making up missed classes at a later date.

Schedule for Success If you are using a group event to create time

By Lydia Fairchok

off for yourself, clearly communicate that

Illustration by Susan Harris

this session is in lieu of normal classes so no one shows up at the wrong time. Most

My early exposure to group instruction was

sis, occasionally bringing your students to-

importantly, post classes well enough in ad-

far from inspiring. The “lesson” was really

gether in large groups is an effective way to:

vance that the right number of people can plan to attend. A large group isn’t much of a

nothing more than a glorified execution of the children’s game red light/green light.

• build community at your barn

“large group” if only four riders show up! If

A swarm of nearly twenty riders in various

• teach your students to learn from one

you have a broad spectrum of student ages

states of control trooped around the ring

another

and experience levels, you may want to of-

while the trainer hollered out directions like

• foster independence

fer multiple sessions to keep compatible

a traffic cop: “Sitting trot!...Walk!...Posting

• boost income

riders together, but don’t be afraid to com-

trot!...Halt!” There was no room for indi-

• give yourself time away from the arena

bine diverse categories with appropriate

vidualized instruction, asking questions,

• challenge yourself as an instructor

forethought.

clearing up misunderstandings, or for refin-

• and of course, have fun!

ing cues. A few particularly competent rid-

Group size will depend on the experience

ers--the ones that could also afford private

Always vs. Sometimes

lessons on the side, as it so happened--were

The rules of group instruction are depen-

and assistants you have access to, how many

pointed out as the gold standard to strive

dent on the intended sustainability of the

riders can comfortably operate in your ring

for, and the hapless stragglers were pulled

arrangement. Just because a certain for-

space, and any insurance limitations on

to the center for correction, then sent back

mat isn’t an effective way to conduct a

headcounts. Your span of control—how

into the fray to “try again”. I vowed that this

rider’s whole education does not mean it

many people you can safely and effectively

brand of chaos would have no place in my

is not valuable to part of their education.

manage at one time—increases with the ex-

teaching methodology.

Permanent groups should be small enough

perience level and self-sufficiency of your

level of those involved, how many horses

to maintain individual attention and partic-

riders. Remember that you do not necessar-

Unfortunately, even though the lesson mill

ipants should be chosen based on common

ily need to have a horse for every rider if you

approach leaves everything to be desired

goals and experiences. “Sometimes” groups,

utilize team-based activities with shared

in the way of proper instruction, it sells.

on the other hand, do not have the expec-

horses, although this may require extra time

Children and their parents are especially

tation of riding together week after week,

and coordination of tack, as well as being

drawn to the affordability, social atmo-

which increases the workable class capacity

sure that every person on the team is com-

sphere, and artificially accelerated pace of

and makes the session accessible to a wider

petent with the assigned horse.

mass group lessons. This is a frustrating

range of clients.

The more horses and riders you have in mo-

truth to those of us who offer an arguably better education with smaller classes and

Occasional arrangements also have the ap-

tion, the more opportunities there are for

higher price tags. But are large group les-

pealing air of a “special event”. Students

things to go awry, so plan your class time-

sons always bad? While it may be true that

who normally prefer private or semi-private

frame to accommodate surprises. Adding

private and small group classes are ideal

settings can enjoy the temporary change

thirty minutes not only gives your clients

for truly developing riders on a regular ba-

of pace and broader focus of a large group

the feeling that they are getting additional

6

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

value for their money, but even without set-

Emphasize Community

Another Tool in Your Toolbox

backs the extra time is quickly eaten up by

Even though the surface goal of a group

The fundamental issue with only using mass

explaining activities, familiarizing riders

event may be to provide you with a much-

group instruction is that the tool is, on its

with one another, and taking turns. Develop

needed vacation, increase cashflow for the

own, insufficient for the task. Building a

a lesson plan, complete with the amount of

month, or just offer something fun, don’t

rider who embodies true horsemanship is

time you expect each task to take, but have

overlook the opportunity to create and

like constructing a house – many differ-

a few alternative activities planned in case

strengthen bonds between your clients.

ent tools are required, and a skilled builder

something doesn’t go as anticipated.

People want to feel at home. Your students

knows when and how to use each one. You

will drive the extra distance or pay the ex-

won’t find a carpenter beating a screw into a

Leverage Experience Gaps

tra dollars to ride where they feel personally

two-by-four with a hammer and expecting a

If your sign-up sheet turns into a hodge-

connected and cared about, and it is a force

positive result. Neither should an instructor

podge of experience levels, don’t despair.

multiplier when the feeling of inclusivity

expect to create well-rounded, knowledge-

Beginners and advanced riders alike ben-

comes from the barn community as a whole.

able, and capable riders by letting a gaggle of them slop in circles week after week with-

efit from an occasional shared lesson setting. Beginners see things done well and

Team-based activities are perfect for fos-

out individualized instruction and focused

experienced riders receive a confidence

tering bonds between students. Try gym-

education.

boost when they are called on to demon-

khana- or summer-camp-style games, then

strate skills for others. The sense of “per-

encourage team names and friendly com-

Just as a hammer is the best option for a nail,

forming” brings out a desire to work hard

petition. If you have the time, let everyone

however, high capacity group classes are a

in everyone.

hang out at the barn after the horses have

judicious tool for teaching concepts that pri-

been put up to eat a snack and chat about

vate and semi-private lessons cannot. Large

Even more notably, mixed groups create

their great day. Parents are usually willing

groups give riders a much-needed opportu-

the ideal environment for riders to learn

to chip in some drinks or a watermelon,

nity to manage a horse in a crowd, function

about instruction, thereby reinforcing their

and I have yet to meet a group of kids who

as a team, solve problems independently,

own concept of correctness. Assign exag-

didn’t relish the opportunity to run amok

strengthen peer relationships, learn from

gerated flaws (such as slouching, heels up,

in the empty arena pretending to be horses

various experience levels, and much, much

hands too wide) to competent riders and

(always “bad” horses, too—with as much

more. Instructors are challenged to make

call on beginners to identify the problem

bolting and balking as the children indulge

lesson material accessible to everyone,

and the remedy. After the beginners have

in, you would think they have never met a

maintain leadership over a broad operation,

gotten to “pick on” the veteran group, de-

properly trained, happy school mount!). The

and know when to intervene and when to let

velop an instructor’s eye in the advanced

unstructured free time makes fast friends

students figure things out. Considering that

riders by having them assess the beginners.

while waiting for parents to come. You can

group lessons are also an effective way to

This exercise works best when the begin-

even use mass group lessons as a platform

increase your dollar-per-hour value in the

ners happen to be younger than the expe-

for advertising your summer camp program

arena, retain your students through strong

rienced riders, but many adult riders enjoy

by promising that camp weeks are just as

bonds, and free up your schedule for occa-

being around the energy of youth, and it

much fun every day.

sional time off, you won’t be sorry when group lessons are part of your repertoire.

can be a real treat to a young rider to be “better” than the adults.

Down time after a lesson gives you a chance to build relationships between adults, too. It

Introducing unfamiliar material in a turn-

is a splendid setting to get feedback about

based format also mitigates experience dis-

the day and check up on what other events

crepancies. Set up a barrel pattern for your

or activities your clients would like to see.

English students and let each one attempt

If you have been contemplating a trail ride,

it at their own pace. Teach your Western rid-

schooling show, or bareback clinic, now is

ers about jumping, but only raise the poles

the time to toss the notion out there. Your

for those who are ready for the challenge.

clients may have ideas of their own, and you

Instruct a dressage pattern, implement an

will learn about their interests and goals in a

obstacle course, or unearth a less-common

way that one-on-one conversation does not

horse sport to try. As long as no one feels

always facilitate.

About the author: Lydia Fairchok is certified in Recreational Riding Level 1, and lives and teaches with her three horses in Central Indiana. Lydia segued from a full time instruction career to the field of public safety in 2014 and continues to teach a small number of students while working as a police officer and 9-1-1 dispatcher.

held back, the possibilities are endless!

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

7

8

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

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Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

11

Legal focus

Avoiding Horse Boarding Disputes – Options for Stables and Owners

I defended a stable in a lawsuit brought by a

Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law

pasture instead of an individual paddock. The

www.equinelaw.net

horse owner whose horse was attacked by another horse in the pasture. The suit claimed the stable wrongly pastured her horse in a group stable disagreed, noting that it offered no individual paddocks, and the owner approved a

Disputes sometimes occur between boarding

horse in the pasture. The stable had no way

group pasture for weeks. Unfortunately, noth-

stables and horse owners. Occasionally, they

of knowing of a problem as the injuries were

ing was in writing. Until the case resolved,

become lawsuits. From the standpoint of a law-

beneath the horse’s winter blanket and not

each party faced large legal fees as they tried to

yer who has served boarding and training sta-

visible. Because of the release in the stable’s

prove what the agreement was.

bles as well as horse owners in these disputes

boarding contract, I quickly convinced the

for decades, here are two common disputes and

judge to dismiss the lawsuit.

Horse owners have options, as well. Here are two of them:

ways that each party can protect themselves.

2. Buy liability insurance. Standard comDispute: Horse owners believe boarding

mercial liability insurance policies are not

Equine mortality and major medical insur-

stables gave their horses sub-standard

designed to protect stables from claims in-

ance. Certainly, equine insurance does not

care, causing injury or death to the horses.

volving injury to or loss of a boarded horse.

protect owners against improper care to their

In fact, policies often have exclusions that

horses, but it might at least provide funds to

I have handled numerous lawsuits involving

prevent coverage for these claims. Discuss

help pay veterinary bills and buy a new horse.

these claims. In one case, a horse was kicked

with your insurance agent buying optional

You and your lawyer can evaluate your rights

in the leg by a pasture mate and had to be eu-

coverage designed to protect stables against

against the stable, but vet bills need to be paid.

thanized. Another involved a breeding farm

claims involving negligent care to a boarded

that stabled broodmares and arranged for

horse. This is called a “care, custody, and con-

Insist on a contract. Boarding contracts can

on-site breeding to its stallion; one day, the

trol” endorsement (sometimes called “bailee

benefit horse owners. Horse owners who want

stable’s attending veterinarian palpated the

liability insurance” coverage).

their horses to receive special attention, such

mare to check her condition before breeding,

as extra grain or hay or a different turnout

but the veterinarian accidentally perforated

arrangement, can benefit by including those

the mare, and she was later euthanized. The

services in the contract. In the example fur-

owner sued the veterinarian but also blamed

ther above, if the horse owner wanted her

the stable for not monitoring the mare hours

horse pastured alone, when the stable nor-

before she died.

mally has group pasture arrangements, the horse owner can insist that the boarding con-

To protect themselves, boarding stable man-

tract include that requirement. As an extra

agers and trainers have a few options:

measure, horse owners might want to remind stable staff of these agreed-upon services by

1. Use well-worded liability releases (where

posting signage on the horse’s stall.

allowed by law) pertaining to the horse.

Dispute: Customers fail to pay their bills.

Stables that include releases in their boarding contracts (where allowed by law) would be wise to pay special attention to the language.

Every stable has encountered problems of

If possible, have a lawyer draft or review it.

boarders who fail to pay their boarding fees

Never assume that the same release language

on time. Here are some ideas:

that is designed to protect the stable against claims of injured people will equally protect

1. Include within your boarding contract the

the stable against claims involving injured

right to recover interest (as the state law permits) on unpaid balances. State laws differ on

horses. Details matter, especially with liability waiver/release agreements and clauses. Years

3. Make sure your boarding contracts address

recoverable interest rates so be careful before

ago, I defended a stable that was sued by a

your services. Stables have every incentive to

using forms from other states or from other ar-

boarder whose horse was attacked by another

list or at least describe their services. Years ago,

rangements (such as credit card agreements).

12

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

2. Consider including attorney fee clauses through which the boarder

™

agrees to pay these fees if the stable brings suit to enforce the contract.

3. Understand your state’s stablemen’s lien statute before taking any drastic action, such as selling off or leasing a boarded horse due to unpaid

OFFICIAL FOOTING SUPPLIER OF THE The secret is in the sand

board. This author has written for years about these laws. States differ.

AMERICAN RIDING INSTRUCTORS ASSOCIATION! www.ggt-footing.com

4. Even though a state law might allow the stable to hold the boarded horse for non-payment of fees, consider whether to ask the boarder to leave and then sue later to collect the unpaid board. Especially with smaller debts, the stable might be able to bring a collection lawsuit in small claims court to avoid the expense of a lawyer.

Boarders have options in unpaid board settings. Here are three of them: Try to arrange a payment plan with the stable. Making a good faith effort to address the debt could discourage the stable from taking drastic action such as a stablemen’s lien sale of the horse. If the stable allows an installment payment plan, get it in writing.

Consider a shared use leasing arrangement to reduce your expenses. As

BARB at 864-804-8664 AMANDA at 864-415-2526

Call

this author has written for years and in her books, shared use arrange-

or

ments can be beneficial to reduce upkeep costs associated with horse ownership. However, these arrangements can also bring serious liability

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risks. Plan ahead with a contract, including a release (where allowed by law). Also, discuss with your insurance agent purchasing extra insurance (such as a Personal Horse Owner’s Liability Insurance policy).

AD Amanda ARIA.indd 1

27.01.2020 12:05:50

Read boarding contracts carefully before you sign. This author is aware of a horse owner who signed a boarding contract without noticing that he agreed to board his horse there for two years, with no option to leave early. Problems occurred a few months into the arrangement when the owner wanted to remove his horse, only to learn of legal complexities to break the contract. Make sure you understand what you are signing.

This article does not constitute legal advice. When questions arise based on

Julie Fershtman, one of the nation’s most experienced Equine Law practitioners, is a Shareholder with Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC, in Michigan.

She has successfully litigated equine cases in 18 jurisdictions nationwide and has tried cases in 4 states. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America and received the American Bar Association (ABA) “Excellence in the Advancement of Animal Law Award.” Her speaking engagements span 29 states.

The ABA recently published her new 372-page book called “Equine Law & Horse Sense,” and it is available for purchase on Amazon and through the ABA. For more information, please visit www.equinelaw.net

structor.com www.riding-in

specific situations, direct them to a knowledgeable attorney.

tion Official Publica Riding an of The Americ Association Instructors Fall 2020

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13

legged horror show”. So, with this in mind, I make sure my “client” is comfortable with me diving in head first and doing a complete and total analysis of the horse, stopping just short of a full vet check, which is something you should strongly recommend anyway.

So, when I purchase a horse for myself there are several steps I always go through; but bear in mind this is NOT a purchase for you or me, this is a purchase for someone else.

If I buy a horse that doesn’t work out, oh well, chalk it up to whatever mistake I made, take it on the chin and move on. I’m the only one (hopefully) hurt by this bad buy. But, when you advise on a purchase for a “client” there is no room for any mistakes….ZERO mistakes.

Gary and Tizrobertcharles, who he adopted from Florida Trac* in Loxahatchee, Florida. The retired racehorse is now a mounted police horse. * https://fltrac.org/

Obviously, the level of riding skill and horsemanship of your client must be considered, as well as what the horse’s primary job will

Consulting on a Sale; Where are Your Loyalties?

be. I may feel I owe loyalty to the seller (commission) as well as the “client”, but more importantly I feel I owe the most amount of loyalty to the horse. If the horse is unsuitable or unsafe for the “client”, where is the fairness for the horse? He or she has no say in the matter; they go where we tell them

By Gary Cortolillo

to go, regardless of the situation we will be putting them into. The horse will be put into I am often put into a situation where I am

Of course, this all depends on your level of

a position where they may not reach their

asked to consult on the purchase of a new

involvement or consultation. If it’s just a

full potential; they will be cheated. In this

horse for a friend, student, or business as-

passing glance and a simple, “Yeah, that

sociate. I would not be exaggerating in the

mare looks ok” and you’re done, you might

least, if I said I am not thrilled when this

be fine. But if your “client” wants a more in-

happens. Don’t get me wrong, I want to be

depth analysis and consultation, Pandora’s

as helpful as I possibly can be, but…

Box may be ripped open, and all kinds of ghastly things may emerge.

Consulting on a new purchase for whoever it may be, carries a tremendous amount of

Any commission or consulting fee notwith-

responsibility. If you advise yes or no, your

standing, if I agree to advise on the purchase,

name is forever tied to that horse and its fu-

I go about it the same way every time. The

ture, good, bad, and everything in between.

most important thing to me is my reputa-

Add into the mix the element that the seller

tion. You can have all the accolades, ribbons,

may also be a friend, student, or business

medals, certifications and wealth available,

associate. ALSO, throw in there a little tid-

but these are all fleeting; your reputation

bit that they may be offering a substantial

stays with you forever. One bad recommen-

commission on the sale, and you can easily

dation and you’ll always be remembered as

see my trepidation.

“that guy/gal who told me to buy that three-

14

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

If the horse is unsuitable or unsafe for the “client”, where is the fairness for the horse? He or she has no say in the matter; they go where we tell them to go.

moment, I am responsible for that horse’s future. That is something

personal thing with me. The old adage “you break it, you bought it”

I do not take lightly.

applies here, so extra caution in the beginning pays off in the long run. Have I missed out on some good horses because of this? I’m

My first encounter with the horse is a planned visit to the barn where

sure I have. But let us never try to fit a square peg into a round hole.

he is located. I give the facility a good going-over. I look at the general condition of his living quarters, his stall, his paddocks, his buckets, and

At this point, it is my personal decision to disclose to all parties what

his halter. These observations are invaluable in deciding the suitabil-

my involvement is. Am I being paid by either party? Or am I just doing

ity of this horse. I look at his general body score. Is he underweight,

this as a favor to both seller and buyer? I know this might seem a bit

overweight, poorly groomed, mangy mane or tail, rain rot, etc.? I look

over the edge, but my integrity is EXTREMELY important to me, as it

at his head and his eye. Does he have a soft eye, or is he looking at you

should be to you. The equestrian world is full of “traders”, car sales-

with a good deal of anxiety? I then look at his general conformation.

men, and other unscrupulous sorts. Remember, you take your reputa-

I run my hands all over the horse, noting any sore spots, checking for

tion with you wherever you go; carry it with pride. At the end of the

heat, inflammation, and especially paying close attention to how the

day, the greatest compliment anyone can say about you is, “Yeah, he’s

horse is accepting my presence. I would note if there are any areas of

tough and can sometimes be a big pain, but I trust him completely”.

obvious prior injury, for example bowed tendon, apple ankles, capped hocks, remodeling of the knees, etc. I then flex and palpate fetlocks, tendons, ligaments, knees, hocks, back, neck, and stifles checking on the horse’s reactions. I then ask the seller to walk and trot the horse by hand to see how he tracks. Does he wing, does he paddle, does he overreach, does he clip his heels, does he hold his head high, low, is he overanxious, is he lazy (too lazy may indicate the presence of a tranquilizer), and is he sound? There are so many things I’m looking for at this point, it’s hard to list them all.

About the author: Gary Cortolillo has worked with many breeds of horses in various capacities for nearly 50 years. Starting with riding cow horses on a dairy farm in Upstate New York, he has held numerous positions in the equine field, such as barn-hand, hotwalker, groom, yearling rider, exercise rider and race horse jockey. He has worked at all the major thoroughbred racetracks on the East Coast, in the Midwest, and in Canada, and has been licensed as a thoroughbred trainer in several states. He has worked closely with world-renowned and Hall of Fame trainers, jockeys, veterinarians, and farriers, as well as notable owners in the equine industry. He is currently the Facility Manager for the Davie, Florida Police Department Mounted Unit.

I then ask the seller if he\she would ride the horse for me. I watch how the horse is tacked up, if he stands quietly in cross ties and what kind of equipment he is wearing. I especially note how the horse reacts when the saddle is placed on his back and his reaction to being cinched up. I then watch how the seller mounts the horse. Does he stand still for mounting, can the rider mount from the ground, does he stand quietly at the mounting block, does he remain still after mounting or does he walk off?

I watch the horse very closely as the seller rides him around. I am watching the rider as well as the horse. At this point if am apt to give a thumbs up on the horse, I thank the seller and tell them we’ll get back to them.

For my second visit to see the horse, I try not to give seller too much advance notice. I’ll give him/her a call and say, “Hi, my “client” and I were in the area, and we were wondering if it is ok to drop by and take a second look at your horse?” If they say yes, we go over and see the horse again. This time, I will tack up the horse and I will ride him for a few minutes before handing it over to my “client”. This second visit is the key; everything has to fall into place perfectly for me to recommend the horse. I know this might sound like a little too much, but let’s face it, there are plenty of horses for sale, and the process of finding the right one is tedious, but very important.

I’m not a big fan of taking horses on a trial basis for a variety of reasons, and I would never sell a horse on a trial basis, but that’s just a

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

15

could be when I didn´t, as I had to figure how to get back up on his 17h frame from the ground without the mounting block. “Nash” showed me that some horses definitely had a gait preference (turned out he was a trotter – whoosh!). “Mike” taught me that the more you pulled, the less brakes he had, forcing me to problem solve and to learn to find my Zen at a young age. “Info” introduced me to falling off and that it wasn´t as bad as I was afraid it would be. He not only left his mark on my memory but also on my back, as he branded me with a partial hoof print left by stepping on me after dumping me. His mark turned lovely shades of yellow, purple and blue, and I proudly displayed this badge of honor to all the curious neighbourhood kids. Slow, so slow, “Todd” and “Arrow” taught me that near standstill paces allowed my fumbling beginner body the time to get organized and develop a nice position, which brought home my first equitation ribbons in school shows.

There were the dreamboat horses, too: “Tami”, “Cy”, “Bucky”, “Sabre”, “Ican”, “Dale”: the names I hoped would be pencilled next to mine on the mount assign-

“JUST” A SCHOOL HORSE

ment list. I knew stardom as I glided around the arena on their backs, smiling and enjoying the stress-free, stay-in-the-saddle hour, along with the photo op moments they gave

By Didi Arias

my anxious mother.

Illustration by the author

Every single one of those horses, from My parents didn´t have a lot of money for

horses, and they also had an equally full cli-

dreamboat glider to the ones that made

my riding lessons, and I know they must

entele list. Horses were assigned to each rider

me spit dirt, was Golden, because not only

have scrimped and saved for my one hour

and posted on a board a few minutes before

did their combined qualities and characters

sessions. Those lessons were the height of

class. Dozens of children would surge for-

teach me to ride, they also taught life les-

my week and they held great power over

ward as soon as the office lady hung up the

sons, and to know myself. They taught me

me to stay out of trouble – with one strike

daily posting. There was a mixed sense of

about facing fears and that things were not

I could hear the parental words that put

excitement, with a slight fluttering of dread,

always going to be easy nor pretty and that

fear into every kid: “Behave or you will

at finding out which horse you were about to

sometimes life could be, quite literally, a

be grounded…” and they always finished

spend the long awaited hour on.

very bumpy ride. Being a better communicator and selflessness are things I learned

the sentence with “…and that means NO RIDING”. I behaved.

Thinking back, I probably remember almost

and understood on the back of a horse; add

every school horse I rode, and there were

patience and compassion to that. Tolerance

Weekly lessons were such a privilege and a

a lot. They were all memorable, individual

and appreciation for individuality I also

treat – I was one lucky kid! The county-owned

and rider-maker worthy. “Grayboy” taught

gleaned from my equine teachers, for as in

stables I rode at had a large string of school

me how to sit a spook, and how patient he

the human world, the horse world also has

16

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

its gentle, eccentric and downright stinker

where the just-er is coming from, and at-

• The school horse is part of the learning

characters. I also learned that you don´t

tempts to work it out whilst protecting the

trinity: instructor, horse, student. No

have to be worth a million bucks or pure

ideals of the school horse.

bred to give a good ride.

school horse, no trinity, no lesson.

• A school horse is a professional – nobody

The instructor in the Crone phase is fre-

wants to ride something too hard when

Yup, I´m a school horse fan, so much so

quently and unfairly perceived as old, spite-

first starting out, thus they are selected and

that I´ve run my own school for over three

ful, and with a penchant for occasionally

trained to be able to facilitate each rider.

decades with my own string of school mas-

eating small students. But that´s really just

ters that never stop teaching me. They are a

bad press as this instructor is full of age

“Yeah, but…

huge part of my life and also the backbone

accumulated knowledge and insight, or

“…the school horses where I ride only

of my business. So I get a bit “tetchy” and

“Wisdom Plus”.

resist”.

defensive when someone says the word

“…riding school horses don´t seem to know

“just” in front of “school horse” in conversa-

enough for me to move up to higher skills”.

tion, somehow relegating school horses into

“...they don´t train the school horses where

the lesser beings of the equine world.

The Insensitive One - “Oh, but it was

Every single one of those horses, from dreamboat glider

only ´just´ a school horse”, he said when

to the ones that made me

we recently lost a prized teaching mount.

spit dirt, was Golden, because

(Probably the same person who says “oh it

not only did their combined

was just a dog” when you lose your beloved canine family member).

The Dolt - “You´ve ´just´ got school horses for

qualities and characters teach me to ride, they also taught life lessons, and to know myself.

clients? Haven´t you got any ´good´ horses?”

I ride. They just unload them from the truck from the dealer´s yard and plonk them straight in to the school”. “…I don´t want to stay a beginner forever”. “...they get really bad habits, that scares me”.

Yikes! And I hear these remarks with concerning frequency. So what to do? On these pages I realize I´m speaking to the enlightened, but if there is a way that we can get the word out to others less so in our profession, we should pass it on as needed: Listen

The Left Handed Compliment Giver -

up instructors, it´s time to pay attention to

“Thank you for the lovely ride; what a nice

As I´m chronologically moving in the latter

your clients, and to your horses. If neces-

animal, for ´just´ a school horse”.

archetypal phase, the Crone in me rises up

sary, raise the standards and train for the

and for just a flash, I may want to devour

job, and maintain that training. Afford the

The Outstanding Gem of a Dolt - “I´m a

the fool and get rid of the nuisance once

same options of care to the school horses

very experienced rider, so I don´t need to ride

and for all, but this moment quickly passes.

as you would to the private animals. They

´just´ one of the school horses; I can ride one

I then call on my ability to channel my in-

are a part of your businesses and keeping

of the private ones instead.” (I´m sure my

ner school horse qualities, and my wise

them in good working order, physically and

boarders would be happy with that - not).

and tolerant self comes out. I fall back on

mentally, is both a moral and business re-

what I know, to educate, and will attempt

sponsibility. The time and effort put in to

When at the receiving end in a conversation

to counter the myths and prejudices with

the school horses will really show – people

like this, how one responds to these “just-

solid facts.

will notice, and they´ll come back, recom-

ers” depends on the instructor´s character and where they currently are in the Phases of Instructor-hood. Let me explain:

mending you to others. Let´s face it, good • If it weren´t for school horses, how would people ever learn to ride?

school horses make for happier students.

So many mounts get a bad rap because

• Less people would take up horseback rid-

standards are allowed to slip, or are never

The Maiden archetype is the newbie full of

ing, and a lot of those that do start would

even put in place. Have pride in your ani-

joy, youth and innocence and though know-

finish off sitting on their arses if it weren’t

mals, and don´t let them be “just” school

for school horses.

horses - let them be stars in the show!

ing that her horses are good, may feel unsure in this situation and bend to this client attitude.

• There is no school horse department store where you can just pick one off a shelf, ready to go. School horses have to

The Mother type is caring and patient, and

be made, and that can be time consuming

may nod her head in trying to understand

and costly.

About the author: Didi Arias is a Level 3 ARIA Certified Instructor and national dressage judge and teacher, who resides in Almeria, Spain.

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

17

Business matters

Oh, No! I’m being audited!

By Carol Gordon, CPA

job. You are not a tax preparer, just like you aren’t an electrician. Please – don’t do your own electrical work or prepare your own tax return.

4. Make every effort to run your business as a business. The IRS guidelines for distinguishing between a business and a hobby

If I asked each of you to make a list of 5 things that you really want to do in the next 5 years,

are below. The tax consequences of one

it would be VERY unlikely that any of you would choose to experience an IRS audit. But for 1

vs. the other are very significant.

out of every 44 of you (over a 5-year period, based on 2019 statistics), you will have that unlucky experience. And if you file a Schedule C, your chances of being audited are multiplied

Question

by almost 3 times. Some of being selected for an audit really is (bad) luck but there are some

How do you distinguish between a business and

things that you can do to minimize your risk. And if you are selected for an audit, there are

a hobby?

some things that you can do to minimize the time and pain involved.

5 things you can do to minimize your risk of an audit:

Answer

2. Provide 1099 Forms to all of the applica-

In making the distinction between a hobby or

ble vendors and submit the forms to the

business activity, take into account all facts and

1. Report ALL of your taxable income. IRS

vendors and IRS on a timely basis. If one

circumstances with respect to the activity. A hobby

auditors have access to detailed industry

of your vendors reports income from you,

activity is done mainly for recreation or pleasure.

information for every area of the country.

for which you should have provided them

No one factor alone is decisive. You must generally

So, they will know the average annual cost

a 1099 but did not, that’s another red flag.

consider these factors in determining whether an

of care of a horse. If you report expenses

You may believe that a particular vendor

activity is a business engaged in making a profit:

for the care of 10 school horses and only

does not report some of their income, but

• Whether you carry on the activity in a busi-

report income equivalent to lessons on 5

it would be a shame to find out the “hard

nesslike manner and maintain complete and

horses, that will raise a red flag on your

18

way” that you were wrong.

accurate books and records.

return. One red flag doesn’t necessarily

3. Pay to have your return prepared. Your job

• Whether the time and effort you put into

trigger an audit but it’s definitely a cause

is being an instructor, barn owner, trainer

the activity indicate you intend to make it

for concern.

(how many hats is that?). It’s a full-time

profitable.

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

• Whether you depend on income from the activity for your livelihood.

• Whether your losses are due to circumstances beyond your control (or are normal in the startup phase of your type of business).

• Whether you change your methods of operation in an attempt to improve profitability.

• Whether you or your advisors have the knowledge needed to carry on the activity as a successful business.

• Whether you were successful in making a profit in similar activities in the past.

• Whether the activity makes a profit in some years and how much profit it makes.

• Whether you can expect to make a future profit from the appreciation of the assets used in the activity.

5. Keep very detailed records. This is important if you are audited but it is also important as you compile the information that your tax preparer will use for your returns. And it’s really effective in mak-

During an audit, you must spend a large amount of time providing the auditor with documentation and answering questions. It’s time away from your business, a major source of income for you. Whenever you provide the auditor with information beyond the scope of their question, you provide them with an opportunity to ask another question that they wouldn’t have asked otherwise – which will take even more of your time. From hearing Wrong Answer, they might now ask you what you do with horses that do not regain soundness or how much your total veterinary expense was for the last 5 years.

ing sure that you receive credit for all of the deductions due to you.

5 things you can do to minimize the effects of an audit: 1. You will receive notification via mail from the IRS that they re-

you. Whenever you provide the auditor with information beyond

quire information or that you have been selected for an audit.

the scope of their question, you provide them with an opportu-

The IRS does not provide this initial notification via email or

nity to ask another question that they wouldn’t have asked oth-

phone call. When you receive the notification, it’s tempting to

erwise – which will take even more of your time. From hearing

put it aside. But if you don’t respond in a timely manner, the IRS

Wrong Answer, they might now ask you what you do with horses

may adjust your tax liability and the next correspondence that

that do not regain soundness or how much your total veterinary

you receive from them may be a tax bill. So “bite the bullet”, read the notice and respond accordingly.

2. Review those detailed records that you kept so you are confi-

expense was for the last 5 years.

4. Answer questions from the auditor honestly. If you don’t know the answer, say that you don’t know but will find out. Then find

dently familiar with everything there. For every audit, there is a

out the answer and provide it to the auditor on a timely basis.

minimum scope that the auditor will cover. But the auditor may

5. Provide the auditor with copies of documents, not the originals.

enlarge that scope if they find something of concern. The best

Most audits now are “desk audits”, meaning that the audit is

thing that you can bring to an audit is a solid understanding of

conducted via email and phone calls, rather than in-person vis-

the return and the documents supporting it. If you can answer

its. So, you would be providing either scanned or photocopied

the auditor’s questions accurately, you are demonstrating that

documents.

you are knowledgeable about the return.

3. Answer the questions that the auditor asks completely, but do

I hope that you each experience all of the items on your “want to

NOT provide information that does not directly answer their

do” lists and that you are never selected for an IRS audit. But just

question.

like learning emergency dismounts, it’s always good to be prepared.

For example: AUDITOR: “What is this cash disbursement in July of 20XX for $10,000?”

RIGHT ANSWER: “I bought a horse, Sparky, to use as a school horse.”

WRONG ANSWER: “That was for Sparky. He’s one of my school horses. He’s been lame lately. I’ve had the vet out twice and it’s cost me a bundle.”

During an audit, you must spend a large amount of time providing the auditor with documentation and answering questions.

It’s time away from your business, a major source of income for

About the author: Carol Gordon is a CPA with an MBA from Boston College and the owner of Carol Gordon, CPA, which provides consulting services to equine-based businesses. You can contact her at cgordoncpa@gmail.com. If you have any questions that you’d like covered here, please email her with your suggestions.

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

19

Business matters

Do You Know The Two Things Profitable Horse Business Owners Have?

By Doug Emerson The Profitable Horseman The following story about my experience as

keeper to do the entry work. You’ll make

a loan officer in a previous career is a good

more money giving riding lessons than you

example for keeping good financial records.

will tapping a keyboard entering data. Use

Seated at the kitchen table with a couple who

accounting software for your business. For

ran a small dairy farm, I was taking a loan ap-

the most basic record keeping, programs

plication to build a storage building for farm

like: QuickBooks, FreshBooks and other

Is Ben a good purchase for your lesson

equipment. The couple was tired of seeing

general small business software will serve

program?

their farm equipment rust and deteriorate

you well. For those who need more detailed

when left outside exposed to the weather. I

business information, check out the special-

Depreciation

agreed protection of expensive farm equip-

ized equine software available today.

Ignoring the possibility Ben may have a re-

ment is a sound business practice.

sale value when he is retired from the lesson However, while it’s advantageous to dele-

program; the straight line depreciation over

I explained to the couple decisions on loan

gate bookkeeping tasks, no business owner

5 years for him is $700 per year. ($3,500 di-

approvals are largely based on the repayment

should ignore the reports generated by their

vided by 5 years)

ability of the borrower. When asked about

record keeping software. Up to date finan-

the farm’s record keeping system and prof-

cial information allows you to check sales

Annual Maintenance

itability, the farmer pointed to his wife and

and profitability year-round. While living

This includes trim and shoes, normal veter-

said, “I milk the cows, she does the books.”

in the moment is sound advice for a healthy

inary expense, grooming, blankets and hal-

mental attitude, a healthy financial attitude

ters, special feed supplements, applicable

includes living in the future.

insurance, etc., plus hay, grain, bedding and

At that point she reached up to the top shelf

labor for normal care.

of a kitchen cupboard and retrieved a shoe box crammed full of paper receipts and a hand

Accurate projection of income and expenses

written check register. A bit surprised, I asked

with current financial information is a must

Opportunity Cost

how they knew what their profitability was.

when applying for a loan, making capital

If Ben occupies a stall that could be occupied

investment decisions and dealing with eco-

by a “paying” boarded horse, the profit that

“Simple, once a year we take the shoe box

nomic downturns like recession and Covid

would have been generated after boarding

and check register to the tax guy in town

19. Guessing may result in financial disaster.

expenses is also an expense of Ben the lesson horse.

and he tells us how much tax we owe…”

Here is an example why having accurate They didn’t get their loan request approved.

Business record keeping for most horse busi-

and timely business information from your

The key to analyze the contribution to profit

electronic record keeping system helps your

generated by each of your lesson horses is

financial decision making.

to track how many lessons each is used for each month and annually.

ness owners is a tedious task. When left up to the business owner, it’s often listed as the

You are considering purchasing a lesson

last thing to do and then ignored. For most

horse. Ben, a 12 year old horse, needs a rider

Your electronic records tell you:

people, record keeping and watching paint

with intermediate skills. Ben is offered for

1. “Ben” depreciates at $700 per year.

dry share the same level of excitement.

sale to you at $3500 and you expect him to

2. Annual maintenance totals $3,040 per year.

be a lesson horse for 5 years.

3. Lost profit from a boarder stall is $1,200

If you’re busy in your business, hire a book-

20

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

per year.

Com pl Only ete Set $350

4. The total expense for Ben will be $4,940 per year or $412 per month, minimum.

Ben requires an intermediate rider and with your current student mix he will get an average of 6 lessons per week at $35 each for $210 income.

He costs $103 a week ($412 divided by 4). The difference between weekly lesson income generated and carrying costs is $107.

Revolutionary Coach to Rider Communication

Your return to pay yourself for the week or an instructor is $107 divided by 6 which is $17.83 per lesson.

Unless you can average more lesson rides per week, purchasing Ben leaves a very small margin of profitability.

As you can see, good electronic records will allow you to calculate your combined carrying costs quickly and make informed decisions on purchases. The alternative of pulling out the shoebox and guessing is risky business.

For a profitable horse business, two things you need to have at your service are a bookkeeper and an electronic record system.

About the author: Doug Emerson, the Profitable Horseman, consults, writes and speaks about the horse business. He publishes a free electronic newsletter about making money with horses. Visit www.ProfitableHorseman.com to subscribe.

www.eartec.com 800.399.5994

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

21

Sport psychology

Success: Restructuring the Fear of Scarcity to a Balance to Maintain

by Laura King, CHt, NLP & Life Coach

D  Decide There is a Way to Succeed Deciding to believe that you can succeed is your first step toward creating a brain restructure.

Grab a notebook to jot down thoughts about your current situation. Are your thoughts negative? Create positive scenarios to replace these negative thoughts. Use words that help you brave, prepare, rebalance, breakthrough, move, release, reshuffle and inspire positive visions of success.

It’s an understatement to say that 2020 is a challenge. Our world is being rocked with social change, health concerns and financial uncertainty. As a trainer, you may be juggling the

Begin with some form of affirmation like:

desire to provide optimal horse and client care with the worry of a decrease in resources

I recognize and embrace this dramatic shift as

because of reduced lessons, clinics and horse sales. Although I can’t provide a cure for

an opportunity to regroup and redefine. I can

COVID-19, I can help you deal with anxiety associated with this change. Read on to learn

survive and thrive by creating a different balance

some tips, techniques and exercises to realign your focus from a fear of scarcity to a balance

in my life and finding success all around me.

to maintain using the DISCOVER Process to help you achieve a mindset reset.

I  Identify Your Fears

The DISCOVER Process

rations for a best case scenario. Can we

What fears keep you from believing that you

First, you must examine your thoughts.

take this world “pause” and move forward

can have success during changing times?

with a positive plan for whatever occurs?

List your fears and any thoughts you have

The media is slamming you with worst

Let’s create some options that prepare

about them. Where do these fears come

case scenarios and gloom and doom sto-

positively for the future. We must use our

from? Are they coming from outside voices

ries. This information is bombarding you

magic to survive, and then thrive through

(family, friends, media)? Are they real or

without providing suggestions or prepa-

this upheaval.

imagined? Take your worst case scenario

22

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

and flip it to your best case scenario and put your focus there. Create

What do you want your story to be? Begin with the words “I am . . . ”.

multiple options of great case scenarios. Get the positive imagery moving for all areas of your life.

S  Self-Inquiry What do you want? Success and balance. Have you had success and

Choose outcomes that represent health, successful scenarios or material wealth, but don’t stop there. What else does success mean to you? Healthy horses? A barn upgrade? If it’s your dream, put it on your board!

balance before? Of course you have. Remember and relive one of those times and write about it. And how do you remove current ob-

Be careful with limiting thoughts such as, “I’d like to have a new

stacles to achieve success and balance? Transform your mindset us-

footing for the arena, but I can’t afford that. It’s not realistic.” Let go

ing your past successes to reshape your future.

of what you think is realistic. Let the Universe work for you.

What you think is what you become. When you concentrate on your

V  V isualize, with the Help of Hypnosis

success, you create future success. Be the future you want to become.

All of the above are actions that engage your conscious mind. When

C  Conscious-Level Action Steps

you practice them daily, they become habits and restructure your consciousness. You can turbo-charge your efforts by enlisting your sub-

Take conscious-level action steps toward positively creating and

conscious mind through hypnosis, which will make everything flow

embracing your new equilibrium. Organize differently. Educate

more naturally. Start by listening to my MP3 called “Prosperity and

yourself. Increase your success literacy. Whatever your old beliefs

Abundance” found at www.laurakinghypnosis.com. Listen each night

are about success (money, work, family, home), label them “the

before retiring for 21 nights. If you miss one, begin again, until you

past,” and put them in a mental drawer. Lock it. From this moment,

reach 21 consecutive sessions.

envision positive, expansive beliefs about your future and commit to these new beliefs.

E  Evaluate Your Progress After you have experienced the entire DISCOVER Process once,

Use visualization. Allow your imagination to create every detail.

evaluate your level of progress. Do you carry the fears you first listed

How does success feel? How does it smell? How does it taste? What

or have you reshaped your future? Have you created a new definition

are you wearing? Your brain doesn’t distinguish between “real” and

of success? Do you see ‘best case’ scenarios?

“imaginary,” so when you imagine your new life, go big. Visualize only your successful outcome. If you get bogged down in the details

R  Revise & Repeat

of “how to,” you tell the world that there is only one way to create

If you have achieved success, congratulations! Continue using positive

this success. Concentrate on the end-product and let the Universe

affirmations and the MP3, and update your outcome development board

find the path for you.

to position you for new growth. If you haven’t achieved your success – try again. Sometimes it takes a little longer. Reshuffle the Discover

• Visualize the life you desire, including good health for you and those around you.

Process, including all exercises, and listen to the MP3 for another 21 days. It takes commitment and awareness to change your mindset.

• Visualize your achievements with enthusiasm and satisfaction for reaching or exceeding your vision.

• Visualize gratitude for your blessings, including friends, family and your meaningful job.

The world is going through an epic shift. I suggest that you carefully and responsibly face this challenge with positive thoughts that you can attract well-being and your own personal best.

• Visualize paying each of your bills on time and having a large, positive balance in your accounts.

• Visualize how you give to others. Call family members to thank them for their love and support. Thank your clients for being

You are brave, strong and courageous; your dreams are worthwhile and valid. You are reorganizing your future and moving through change to a new balance. You’ve GOT this!

faithful friends and students. Be especially kind.

• Look in the mirror every morning and tell yourself that all good things you do come back to you tenfold (or more!).

O  Outcome Development Board Create your new future on a board or in a notebook by cutting out photos and words that represent your past success. Use your previous accomplishments to help re-engineer your new success scenarios.

About the author: Laura King is the Director and Founder of Summit Hypnosis and Wellness and is a Certified Hypnotist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach, and Sports Performance Coach. Laura has written and published several books and workbooks, including ”Power To Win” for equestrians and “Perfect Enough,” a guide to help you evaluate your perceptions and experiences around vital areas of your life.

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

23

Come Ride for Equestrian Performance Scholarships October 9th & 10th

IHSA Western - IHSA Hunter Seat USEF Show Team - ANRC - IDA Dressage Laurinburg, NC

www.sa.edu

(910) 277-5555

3rd Annual Guide to Schools, Colleges and Universities with Equine Programs Instructors have the unique opportunity to share their knowledge of horses and instruction with their students as well as other information that can help guide them in their quest for higher education. Here are insights into several colleges and universities that have equine studies and riding programs.

Photo courtesy Cazenovia College

Name of school:

Cazenovia College

What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available?

What degree or certificate programs are offered?

the Equestrian Team (IHSA Hunter Seat/Western & IDA Dressage),

We offer Bachelor degrees in over 30 programs including a degree in

some clinics/outside shows.

Equine Business Management. We also have many certificate programs, including a Certificate in Equine Reproduction.

What riding disciplines are available?

We have an Equine Ambassadors Club (a service organization) and

What makes this school special?

Our small size and distinct blend of liberal arts and professional studies allows for individualized academic programs that are en-

Hunter Seat, Western Horsemanship, Reining, Dressage and

hanced by internships and applied learning activities. Our welcom-

Pleasure Driving.

ing community makes students feel at home on our small, safe cam-

Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered?

pus and in the nearby lakeside Village of Cazenovia.

What tips do you have for potential students?

Yes, in addition to being an approved ARIA test center and offer-

Get as much experience as possible riding all different types of

ing the ARICP testing 1- 2x/year, we have an Adult & Continuing

horses, this will help students both in college riding classes as well

Education division where students can take courses part-time on

as with Equestrian Team competition.

campus, online and at several community college satellite locations.

The courses include several non-degree certificate programs.

Are the horses owned by the school, students or others?

Contact information Visit our website at www.cazenovia.edu

Horses used in the program are all owned by the College. Some

Call us Toll Free: 1-800-654-3210 or 315-655-7208,

boarding is available for students.

or send us an email at admissions@cazenovia.edu

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

25

Schools, Colleges and Universities with Equine Programs Name of school: Averett University

What degree or certificate programs are offered?

Bachelor of Science Degree in Equestrian Studies.

There are 5 concentrations to choose from within the degree. All majors take a core of about 30 hours in ES courses and then speNameafterwards. of school: cialize

St. Andrews University

1 Dressage Instruction: students develop skills and a base of classical theory for eventing, training, competing, teaching, and What degree or certificate programs are offered? writing about Dressage.

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a Specialization in

2 Eventing Instruction: teaches classical theory and practice for Equine Business Management; Bachelor of Science in Biology with competing, training, and teaching eventing.

a Specialization in Equine Science; Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic

Students can earn their ARIA certification while in school through Horsemanship.

psychology as well as participate in practicums learning EAP equine specialist skills.

Riding, Dressage, 4Reining, EquineRanch Science: Students take Western a varietyDressage. of science course to prepare them for graduate studies in veterinary medicine, nutrition, Are therereproduction pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to equine and more.

enter your program?

5 Equine Management: Students take additional courses in the The University accepts students of all riding levels and experience business department to compliment the equine courses, and levels into the Equestrian Program. prepare students for a variety of business and marketing careers in the equine sector.

Are the horses owned by the school, students or others?

What riding disciplines are available?

The University owns 100 horses that are used in our program. Students may bring personal horses to school and may Classes in their dressage, hunt seat with and them eventing are offered at particia varipate on some of the show teams with their own horse. ety of skill levels.

Are the horses owned by the school, students or others?

What equestrian-related extracurricular activities

The horses are alletc.) owned or leased to the University. (clubs, teams, arebyavailable?

Riding Council is the main equestrian club on campus which all ridWhat equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, ers may join. Additionally, there are clubs for students majoring in etc.) are available?

Therapeutic Horsemanship, Pre-Vet, Equine Business, and clubs for

We participate in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association, students interested in natural horsemanship, rider fitness, vaulting, Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (hunt seat), compete and other special interests. regionally in eventing and combined training shows, work with a local thoroughbred rescue, and have a pre-vet club.

Teams include IHSA Hunter Seat Team, IHSA Western Team, IDA

an instructor certification course. They also have the opportunity to go riding throughdisciplines USDF and USEA instructor training programs.

What are available?

Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter Dressage Team, ANRC Team, USEF Hunter/Jumper Show Team, your program?

NCHJA Hunter/Jumper Show Team, NCDCTA Dressage Team,

SeatPsychotherapy: Equitation, Jumpers, Western Horsemanship, 3Hunters, EquineHunter Assisted Students take courses in

NCQHA Team.

There areShow no pre-qualifications for our program. Because our

WORLD-CLASS EQUINE AT CAZENOVIA COLLEGE

• Nationally ranked team competing in Hunter Seat,Western Horsemanship, Reining and Dressage • Nationally recognized equine business management program • Ranked one of America’s Best Colleges and a top Best Value in the north by U.S. News

OUR 240-ACRE EQUINE EDUCATION CENTER

Cazenovia College, Cazenovia, N.Y. 13035 www.cazenovia.edu 1.800.654.3210 16

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Fall 2019

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Riding Instructor

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

How is this school addressing the covid-19 issue?

Photo courtesy Sweet Briar College

COVID-Procedures include daily temperature taking, disinfecting of surfaces, wearing of gloves and a mask (mask maybe removed when mounted). The entire COVID-19 equestrian procedures booklet will be emailed to applicants upon request.

Are scholarships available?

Academic

and

Equestrian

Performance

scholarships are available. Additionally there are scholarships for experience in FFA, 4-H, IEA, YEDA, and other recognized secondary school equestrian organizations.

What makes this school special?

St. Andrews has a 350 acre Equestrian Center within 2 miles of campus. Check out our website at www.sa.edu. Click on Equestrian.

What tips do you have for potential students?

Name of school:

Sweet Briar College Upon arriving at Sweet Briar, riders will be

take you from where you are to where you

What degree or certificate programs are offered?

want to be. Our Hunter/Jumper and Western

We offer two Equine Studies Certificates

level of the program for their individual needs.

Head Coaches hold national judging licenses

with different concentrations: manage-

and all of our instructors are experienced

ment; teaching and schooling.

The St. Andrews coaches and instructors will

competitors and teachers. Our Resident

evaluated to establish the most appropriate

Are the horses owned by the school, students or others?

during the school year as well as summer

What riding disciplines are available?

experiences working on wildlife preserves in

Our primary discipline is hunter/jumper,

them at our riding center. We typically have

Africa. Our alumni are active in most aspects

which is based on the American Forward

about 20 student-owned horses.

of the equine industry and work closely with

Riding System.

Veterinarian offers veterinary internships

our students in providing them with summer internships.

Contact information Equestrian Admissions Counselor:

Sweet Briar owns about 50 horses, and students may bring their own horses and board

Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered?

What equestrian-related extracurricular activities (clubs, teams, etc.) are available?

No.

We have a long-standing, student-led Riding Council whose members assist with all as-

Ashley Duda dudaash@sa.edu

Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to enter your program?

Head Western Coach:

Our equestrian program covers all levels

in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference

Carla Wennberg wennbergc@sa.edu

of riding ability, from beginners who have

championships and local and rated shows in

Head Dressage Coach:

never been on a horse to experienced eques-

the USHJA Zone 3 region. In addition, stu-

Lindsey Trockenbrot trockenbrotla@sa.edu

trians with extensive showing, management

dents have the opportunity to experience a

Equestrian Director:

and schooling experience. The teaching and

hunter trials or hunter pace, plus fox hunts

Peggy McElveen mcelveen@sa.edu

schooling Equine Studies Certificate has

with local clubs. There also are numerous

skill requirements.

opportunities to work in stable and show

Lindsey DeCourcey decourceylj@sa.edu Head Hunter Seat Coach:

pects of the riding program and support the riders in the program. We have both an IHSA and NCEA varsity team. We also compete

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

27

management as well as become a teaching

response that will safeguard faculty, staff, stu-

assistant and lead hacks.

dents and the local community through a set

How is this school addressing the covid-19 issue?

Sweet Briar has developed a comprehensive

help lower the cost of riding fees.

of supportive and protective policies, plans

What makes this school special?

and guidelines, as well as providing the sup-

Sweet Briar’s riding program celebrates its

plies needed to safely be together on campus.

100th anniversary in 2020, and throughout its history, it has been one of the most

plan to bring all students back to campus

Are scholarships available?

for in-person instruction. College leadership

Because Sweet Briar is a NCEA Division III

jumper programs in the country. The

organized several working groups focused

school, we do not offer scholarships for rid-

College’s scholar-riders are renowned for

on the areas of healthy living, healthy stu-

ers, but we do offer many academic merit

their skill in the saddle and their solid un-

dent mental and physical health and healthy

scholarships and need-based grants for stu-

derstanding of good horsemanship, leader-

learning. Each group developed a coordinated

dents. We also have endowment funds that

ship, theory and equine management.

nationally recognized and winning hunter/

The 130-acre Harriet Howell Rogers Riding Center sits on the College’s 2,840-acre campus in rural central Virginia—the heart of horse country. The stables have been recently renovated, and the riding center features excellent indoor and outdoor facilities, including the 120’ by 300’ Robin S. Cramer Hall indoor arena, three outdoor rings, several schooling fields with natural obstacles, hunter/jumper fences suitable for USEF competitions and 18 miles of trails that wind through the beautiful landscape.

130-acre riding center and120’ x300’ indoor arena on campus Hunter/jumper riding program

What tips do you have for potential students?

The opportunities to learn and grow as a scholar and a rider are vast and can be tailored to meet their unique goals. At Sweet Briar, with the riding center conveniently located on campus, the more personal style of learning and the sense of community that comes with a tightly-knit academic environment, it is easy to pursue multiple interests and achieve your dreams.

Contact information: Merrilee “Mimi” Wroten ’93 Director of the Riding Program Head NCEA Coach Riding Instructor P | 434-381-6348 E | equestrian@sbc.edu

28

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

Business matters

customer seems to be pretty well ingrained in our business processes. But donors and volunteers are two groups that can someName school: times beofoverlooked.

William Woods Donors are a pretty University diverse group. The size and the frequency of the donation vary considerably so there isn’t a one size fits all What degree or certificate programs are offered? approach to expressing gratitude.

But the statistics show that many Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Science, Bachelor of Science not-for-profits don’t succeed in thanking their donors successfully. in Equine Administration, Bachelor of Science in Equine General Seven out of ten first time donors never donate again. Over 50% Studies, and an online Master of Education in Equestrian Education. of not-for-profits stop sending thank you acknowledgements after their first year in existence. And the average not-for-profit is only What riding disciplines are available? retaining 40% of recurring supporters. I couldn’t find any surveys Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, Saddle Seat, and Western. that demonstrated the improved retention rate of sending a thank you, but I can’t imagine that there wouldn’t be some improvement.

Are there pre-qualifying criteria for students wishing to It would certainly be worth investigating, given the cost of acquirenter your program? ing first time donors vs retaining donors.

Regarding entrance requirements, the interested equestrian would Volunteers are much like employees. They keep your organizaneed to make an appointment to visit campus (with Raechel tion functioning and are the face of the organization to your cusLindbloom ) and meet with the EQS Program Director, Professor tomers. But they don’t even get paid. Over the course of a year, Jennie Petterson. There are, of course, grade point average requirevolunteer attrition is one out of every three people. One of the top ments, and Professor Petterson could answer many questions about ways to improve volunteer retention is to say thank you. entrance into the program and what is specifically required.

Saying thank you doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming.

Be creative.

Post photos of these organizational superstars on Are there continuing education or non-degree options offered? your website.

Host an Appreciation Day at your barn and invite Almost all clinics, horse shows, and lecture presentations outside of everyone associated with your business.

Ask how people want to class are open to the public. be thanked.

Establishing maintaining business relationships with Are the horsesand owned by the good school, students or others? thesehorses key players into success for your The are allultimately universitytranslates owned, although students areorgawelnization. comed to bring personal horses to class or to participate in clinics and horse shows.

About the author: Carol Gordon is a CPA with an MBA from Boston What equestrian-related extracurricular activities College and the owner of Carol Gordon, CPA, provides consulting services to equine(clubs, teams, etc.) arewhich available? based businesses. You can contact her at Hunter/Jumper Club, Western Club, Saddle Seat Club, cgordoncpa@gmail.com.

If you have Dressage any questions that you’d like covered here, please email Club, and Intercollegiate Judging Team. her with your suggestions.

How is this school addressing the covid-19 issue?

Prior to arrival students are requested to monitor their health for COVID-19 symptoms. When on campus CDC guidelines should

Charities have the responsibility and (sometimes) the IRS requirement that they provide donors with a receipt for their donation. The requirements vary based on be followed including hand washing and physical distancing. the amount of the donation and whether the donation Individuals are required to as wear coverings while on campus was made in cash or an face item(s).

IRS Publication 1771 in all situations where physical distancing is not possible, including (Charitable Contributions- Substantiation and Disclosure whenRequirements) entering a classroom, and in common areas of provides in thehallways, details but generally: residential halls. Read more about how William Woods is preparing for the safe return of have students August - https:// A donor must eithertoatheir bank campus record orinsome written

www.williamwoods.edu/emergency-info/index.html communication for any donation before claiming the donation on their tax return. If the donation is $250 or more, the donor is responsible for obtaining a written Are scholarships available? communication from the charity.

(If someonestudent has donated Yes, scholarships are available.

The prospective would just $250 or more to your organization, why would you make need to go to www.williamwoods.edu/academics/undergraduate/ THEM be responsible for obtaining the receipt?!?) programs_and_degrees/equestrian/index.html to find out more, and then contact the admissions representative Raechel Lindbloom at If the donation is as an item(s) (tack, show awards, Raechel.Lindbloom@williamwoods.edu etc.), the charity is required to provide a written receipt if the donor states that the value of the donation is greater What makes this school special? than $75. But the receipt should never include a value of William theishome of overresponsibility.

150 performance theWoods items. is That the donor’s The horses. charity This includes young horses just learning the discipline, all the way to should only provide a description of what was donated— horsese.g., who3 have multiple Passier Apollochampionships Snaffle Bridles. already earned. There are horses to teach you many aspects of each discipline.

Donation acknowledgements should include: the donor’s

Whatname, tips the do you potential students? date have of the for donation, the amount of a monetary

The more you investigate what the of horse industry is all about, donation and/or a description any items donated.

Also the include a statement, if that is the case, that “no goods or more prepared you will be to take advantage of what an equestrian services were provided by the charity in exchange for the education has to offer. If you’re interested in teaching or training, donation. And never, ever include a statement that the spend some time shadowing someone who is doing that job. If you donation is tax deductible. Whether or not that is the case want to manage a barn or work in an equine assisted therapy setting, depends on each donor’s individual tax situation. volunteer at a facility so that you have exposure to that field. We try to expose students to a wide variety of careers and fields in the industry, but the more you have explored before you get to school, the quicker you can begin to focus on your area of interest.

Contact information:

www.williamwoods.edu/eqs<https://www.williamwoods.edu/eqs>

Find your strengths and pursue your passions riding-instructor.com |

Summer 2020

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

27

29

Cameo’s cauldron … in which Cameo Miller stirs her thoughts and ideas to see what rises to the top.

much as possible. Sad tells us that we have

difficult. Maybe it takes you two hours to

lost something important to us—a friend,

recover after they leave. As you begin to

a special time, the realization that some-

discover what is underlying your anger,

one else cannot enjoy what we find joy in,

you can better decide on the best course

etc. Fear tells us we are in danger of be-

of action. Depending on which of the rea-

ing physically hurt or killed (whether the

sons you decided upon, there are now sev-

danger is real or perceived as real by us).

eral courses of action open to resolve each

Anger tells us that we are being harmed in

problem. You can check what you are doing

some way other than physically. Prevailing

with a colleague to make sure you are doing

theory says that people and events cannot

the best you can, you can move them to a

make us feel things; it is only our percep-

different day when you have fewer clients

tion of something that causes it to pro-

for them to “infect” or clients who will be

duce certain emotion in us. I partly agree.

better able to deal with it, or put them at

A roller coaster ride is

the end of the day when

exhilarating for one

you can do something

person and terrifying

fun and relaxing after-

to the next—it’s the same ride, but the perception of it is different. Where I disagree is that rather than try-

Feelings as Information

ing to change the per-

By Cameo Miller

something, and that

Illustration by Bethany Caskey

feeling is very import-

ception of the event, I use the FEELING AS

INFORMATION.

Events

and

people

can cause you to feel

ant information if you Emotions are running high right now, and

listen to it.

they have been for quite a while. There is

“

A roller coaster ride is exhilarating for one person and terrifying to the next—it’s the same ride, but the perception of it is different.

”

wards. You don’t have to feel guilty because you “shouldn’t” feel angry at a client, you don’t have to kick them out of the program to get rid of your anger, you don’t even have to quit being angry at them (although you may find that is what happens once you deal with the problem more effectively).

You’ve listened to the information the feeling is trying to impart, and have processed that in-

a lot of fear, anxiety, and anger out there.

The next important

There are lots of other feelings flying

concept is that feel-

around too. So I thought I’d do a quick

ings are NOT action.

primer on feelings this time to help people

People are often dis-

understand what they are and how to deal

mayed by anger because they see a direct

If people don’t recognize what the anger is

with them.

and immediate connection between the

trying to tell them, feel powerless to deal

anger and an unpleasant action. Our action

with the situation, or feel they won’t be

First, a short course on feelings in gen-

needs to be filtered through our brain—we

able to handle the knowledge once they

eral. The experts have decided there are

need to consciously decide on an action

do know it, they are likely to react. And the

four basic feelings—happy, sad, fearful and

rather than just allow a reaction. Let’s look

cause of the anger continues to occur be-

angry, with a diversity of degrees, combi-

at a quick example: You have a client who

cause the message was never received and

nations and variations of each subsumed

is never satisfied and always negative about

an appropriate solution not arrived at.

under these. Each of these tells us a spe-

everything; they’re starting to make you

cific thing about what is happening to us

angry. What is the “harm” they are doing to

It is very common in our society to tell

at that moment. Happy, of course, tells us

you? Do you feel unappreciated or incom-

people not to feel anything except happy—

that things are going as we would like them

petent around them? Maybe they cause

and not too much of that. We are told we

to and we should try to keep these people,

everyone during that time to be more neg-

shouldn’t trust our feelings, intuition is

behaviors, items, creatures, etc. around as

ative and complaining and generally more

scoffed at, that all this feeling stuff can’t be

30

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

formation through your brain to arrive at the best possible solution.

possibly the lessee, from liability as the applicable state law allows. scientifically proven. It’s true that it can’t Liability waivers/releases are complicated be scientifically proven, it’s much too indidocuments that require special attention. vidual for that which is exactly why I beOver the years, my books and articles have lieve it is so important to each individual explained how these documents work and because one of the things I have observed what makes them fail. Because states differ is that your gut reaction, your true feelings, on requirements for these documents, avoid your intuition, whatever you call it, will “one size fits all” forms. never lie to you. It can only tell you what is Contracts protect lessors canwhat also right for you,that not someone else, and include worded indemnification is “right”carefully for you may change over time and clauses (where allowed by law) that would situations, but your feelings will give you provide, with proper language in which accurate information if you listen to them. the lessee agrees to protect the lessor and possibly others, hold themwhich harmless, and The unpleasant feelings, are still pay legal expenses and costs if the lessor is critically important information, abound sued because of injuries or damages the the lesright now. Lots of fear—will we get see caused.

Indemnification clauses can be covid virus and be seriously ill or die? Will complex; discuss them yourtoattorney. we lose our job and notwith be able pay for what we need to survive? Lots of anger— Contracts things are not as they were, not as I want

Contracts for “half -lease” arrangements can include, at a minimum:

them to be, they’re changing in ways I am

out of control of and I don’t know what to • When the arrangement begins and ends do next. Anxiety—how long will all of this

(and methods of terminating it)

• Uses of the horse and restrictions

➢ Cameo’s Cauldron cont’d from page 30 into your curriculum. Trail rides are one way last, what terrible thing will happen next? you can do this as well as being great learnProlonged, extreme emotion can be overing experiences, but there are many others whelming, and when people feel strong activities too. Are there people in your area emotions and out of control, they often rethat do yoga or meditation classes, who are vert to old behaviors rather than stopping very knowledgeable herbalists or gardeners? to consider what the feelings might be tryYou might offer them a natural space to hold ing to tell them about what is happening some sessions. Since you and your people are currently. But if we stop to hear what the already canus, bewe an easy flowthat into feeling present, is tryingthere to tell can use something mayappropriately. help all. Perhaps informationthat to act Theothers mesin the area will join these classes, and sage will have been received so the become feeling interested in lessons. will diminish or dissipate. A fear of covid It shouldn’t a crisis for causing us to take be seriously ill us or to dierealize is an what’s important, butcan it usually Let’s actual threat.

But we use thedoes. informanot ignore or forget what we have suffered tion we are getting about how to protect to learn. Let’s use it to around improveusour lives, ourselves and everyone to minithe lives of those around us, and to be betmize that threat. The anger is true—things ter Wewant have all been arepeople. not as we them to in be,this buttogether, we can and, if weisolation continue in to work together,of wevery will use the any number productive ways,it’s wewell canand enact changes all be fine when truly over. to make things different and better than what

About the author: they were and we can choose to be Cameo Millerbefore, is a Masters-level clinical psychologist a Level IV ARIA Instructor based one and of the people whoCertified are striving to make in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and National Riding Instructors Convention Staff.

things better rather than one who is allowing their fear and anger to be vented destructively. It is more important than ever to listen to the information our feelings are trying to impart to us, but then to use our brains to formulate the best possible response. So many people right now are just reacting and acting out which is contributing to the problem rather than a solution.

Rather than just reacting to your feelings, or trying to ignore or deny them, what if you stop for a minute and listen to what they are trying to tell you, and then use that information to make your life, and hopefully even the situation, better?

About the author: Cameo Miller is a Masters-level clinical psychologist and a Level IV ARIA Certified Instructor based in Michigan. She is a member of the ARIA Evaluation Panel and an ARIA National Test Center Administrator.

• Payment of routine and non-routine

expenses • Liability waiver/release and indemnifica-

tion language (where allowed by law) • Equine Activity Liability Act language

(depending on state law) With careful planning and properly drafted contracts, parties to “half-lease”/share boarding arrangements, and the horse, could be happy for a long time.

This article does not constitute legal advice.

When questions arise based on specific situations, direct them to a knowledgeable attorney.

About the Author: Julie Fershtman, one of the nation’s most experienced Equine Law practitioners, is a Shareholder with Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC, in Michigan.

She has successfully litigated equine cases in 18 jurisdictions nationwide and has tried equine cases in 4 states. She is listed in The Best Lawyers in America and received the American Bar Association (ABA) “Excellence in the Advancement of Animal Law Award.” Her speaking engagements span 29 states.

Her new 372-page book, Equine Law & Horse Sense, has just been published by the ABA and is available for purchase! For more information, please visit www.equinelaw.net.

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Summer 2020

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

25

31

Robert Gielen, one of Canada’s top endurance athletes, scheduled his knee replacements between competitions.

Photo: Robert Gielen Collection

internationally many times, including at the 1988 and 1996 Olympics. She admits, “I could ride, but it involved a fair bit of stretching since the width of the horse was a challenge. It wasn’t comfortable. I was waking up at night due to the pain.” So, in 2012, Smith had both hips replaced.

She says, “My surgery was bilateral so both (hips) were replaced at the same time. After two years, it was discovered that one did not grow in properly for some reason, so it was redone. This happens in less than two percent of replacements. [Because of that] the physiotherapy was more extensive to get my body symmetrical again and I continue to work on that.”

Smith’s new joints made an amazing difference. “I was immediately pain-free. When I first started back, it took a while for my brain to figure out that straddling an exercise ball or getting on and off a horse would not cause pain.”

After her recovery, Smith has continued to

Bionic Riders

ride and compete, bringing along young horses and aiming for the FEI levels while coaching students of all ages.

Joint Replacements Keep Riders Astride

“It’s surprising how many people have

By Tania Millen

full lives. The technology improves all the

Reprinted with permission of Canadian Horse Journal.

time,” she says.

As the riding population ages, joint replacements have become commonplace. Unable to resist the lure of horses, many riders with artificial joints return to the saddle mere months after joint replacement surgery.

(joint) replacements and live very active,

Determined to Ride Candace Cameron took a while to decide that hip replacements were the right choice. Cameron is a former reining trainer in British Columbia who was plagued by

Joint

former reining trainer Candace Cameron,

diminishing hip mobility and increasing

Replacement Registry, the number of

and endurance rider Robert Gielen share

pain for over 15 years. Although her physi-

Canadians having joint replacements has

the benefits and challenges of their joint

cian suggested joint replacement, Cameron

increased 17 percent over the past five years,

replacements.

put it off, unsure whether the whole ordeal

According

to

the

Canadian

with 130,000 surgeries now performed an-

would be worth the effort.

nually. In 2017-2018, that included almost

Becoming Pain Free

59,000 hip replacements and more than

Almost a decade ago when she was in her

“I was incredibly skeptical. I was a doubter,”

70,000 knee replacements. Riders are part of

early fifties, Gina Smith started getting

says Cameron. “It’s major surgery. At one

those numbers, and with six artificial joints

arthritis in her hips. Smith is a Canadian

point your leg is detached from your body. I

between them, dressage rider Gina Smith,

dressage rider who has represented Canada

was scared to go under anesthetic.

32

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

“But I was really tired of being the weakest

and then I was a cripple the next day. But

For more than 15 years, former reining trainer Candace Cameron had been plagued by pain and decreasing hip mobility, which increasingly limited her riding. After two hip replacements, she is now pain free and able to enjoy her riding passion.

six years ago I thought: Why am I putting

Photo: Tania Millen

link. When we went out with the kids, they had to wait for me. I couldn’t ride anymore.

I was lucky if I got 15 minutes in the saddle

this off? I may not be here in ten years, or five years. So I went back to the doctor, booked an appointment, and a week later I had a surgery date.”

Cameron had both hips replaced but at separate times — the left hip was worse, so it was done first in June 2019, and once it had healed, the right hip was replaced in September. “Between 10 and 11 weeks after the second surgery, I was back in the saddle.”

In November 2019, Cameron’s surgeon and physiotherapist gave her permission to do any activities she had previously

ARIA strongly advocates the use of SEI approved helmets in all mounted activities.

enjoyed.

She felt total relief.

Less than three months after having her second hip replacement surgery, Candace Cameron was back in the saddle.

“It’s unbelievable. I would have done this a lot sooner if I’d known. I don’t remember feeling this good in probably 15 or 20 years.

Photo: Tania Millen

More energy. Literally no pain anymore.

I had no idea [I was in so much pain],” she says.

“To me, riding is an addiction,” she admits.

“I couldn’t conceive of never riding again.

But the fact that I was so limited, it hurt a lot [emotionally] not to be able to go for a ride. I just can’t say enough good about it.”

There has been one challenge, says Cameron. “The biggest thing now is that I’m expecting a bolt of pain and for my hips to lock up like they used to. I’m expecting that, and they’re not doing it, so it’s a real learning curve for me.”

Cameron is overjoyed with the results. “It absolutely is a life changer. I’m 50 going on 20 now.”

Fall 2020 | Riding Instructor

33

After having both hips replaced in 2012, Canadian Olympian Gina Smith was immediately pain-free, and now continues to ride, compete, coach, and train young horses.

Photo: Donna Saraff

Advice for Others Smith, Cameron, and Gielen all found their joint replacements were beneficial for both riding and quality of life.

Smith says, “Any rider looking at joint replacement should definitely consider it sooner than later. The results from anyone that I have spoken to have been very positive.”

Cameron agrees. “Don’t hesitate if it’s restricting what you do. You just don’t know how long you’re going to be here. Why wait?

Quality of life is worth something.”

“Have it done when you need it,” says Gielen, “rather than waiting too long until you’re suffering unnecessarily.”

Good advice from a trio who have joined an increasing number of bionic riders.

Robert Gielen competing in a 160 km endurance ride eight months after knee surgery.

Photo: Teresa Finnerty

Better Than Ever

2017 at age 67, then did a 75-mile endurance

Robert Gielen is a 69-year-old Canadian

ride four months later. But the second knee

endurance rider who has competed at three

replacement had to wait until after the 2018

World Equestrian Games and now has two

World Equestrian Games.

new knee joints.

“Once I got the first one done, I realized how “My knees just progressively got worse,” says

bad the second one was. I was fairly uncom-

Gielen. “I’d had a couple of injuries from

fortable waiting for the surgery on that [sec-

hockey, and also twisted my knee falling off a

ond] one.”

horse, and I’ve had two or three arthroscopic surgeries. So, my knees were starting to re-

The second knee was replaced in October

ally bother me. It affected my walking and I

2018, and in July 2019 Gielen did a 100-mile

couldn’t run anymore. Everyone said I walked

ride. “I honestly felt better than I had for

like an old cowboy with bowed legs, and I was

years. Within about six months of each sur-

going through probably six or eight anti-in-

gery, I was back to competing pretty success-

flammatories a day. It was affecting my rid-

fully. I’m living more comfortably now having

ing too. I wasn’t as balanced in the saddle.”

had both surgeries and I think I’m a better rider. I’m waiting to see where the World

As an international athlete, Gielen sched-

Championships will be in 2022. I have a good

uled his knee replacements between compe-

horse that should still be good in two years. I

titions. He had the first knee replaced in July

feel pretty good. The sky is the limit again.”

34

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