Baroque Horse ~ Issue 15

ISSUE 15 APR/MAY 2014

&

Beauty, Strength Power

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Master Luís Valença Rodrigues | Norbert 444 | Jane Savoie and Moshi

and lots more

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Azeitona

Platina

Única

Úrsula

“The perfection and Courtesy breeding Lusitano Pure Blood”

Vistosa

Alteza

Chanel nº 5

“The future is in the Mares” w w w. bar o q u e hors e m ag az i nE.com

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CONTENTS

w h a t ’ s

i n s i d e

I ss u e 1 5 A P R / M a Y 2 0 1 4

08.

Jane Savioe

18.

Norbert 444 Sport

26.

1st lesson Master Luís Valença

32.

Spanish Riding School Behind the Scenes

36.

Ozana Photography

41.

Horses of Interest What it all means

48.

Russian Carriage Driving

52.

The Friesian Sjees

56.

What’s NEW, What’s HOT

60.

Flying Changes Barrie Stratton

66.

Liberty Martín Contreras

72.

Turning Dreams into Reality Elizabeth Sobecki and Hatero de PB

78.

Top MUST HAVES for your stable and tack sheds

86.

Farrier Tips Cesar Severino

92.

Horses Care - Cresty Necks

On the Cover: Jane Savioe and ‘Moshi’.

Photo by Rhett Savoie

E d i t o r s

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elcome to Issue 15. In this issue we have a special treat for you with a brand new article written especially for us by Master Luís Valença. In this story he gives his first lesson on how to communicate with the horse and to establish ourselves as a senior member of the herd. We believe you will learn so much from this lesson and we are delighted to bring more of Master Luís Valença’s articles in our upcoming issues.

I personally love Liberty work and wanted to share more of Martín Contreras knowledge

and we are also thrilled that he will also be a regular contributor.

Liberty work undoubtedly helps in all aspects when working and training with your equine friend from Dressage to Western as it helps create a stronger bond.

In the last issue we had an article introducing Australian Para rider Elizabeth (Lizzie) Sobecki riding the imported PRE stallion ‘Hatero de PB’. We were so endeared by this pair with their new bond and unwavering determination that I wanted to do a follow up with Lizzie on how they are going. She is such a positive and inspirational person and we will follow their

N o t e

progress and goals for WEG this year and also for 2016 Para Olympics.

We do wish them all the best and look forward to following them in their journey.

I hope you all enjoy this issue and as always, we love to hear from you!, Cheers,

erman Danielle Sk Editor-in-Chief

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Editor-In-Chief Danielle Skerman editor@baroquehorse.com.au editing/proofreading: Michaela Wake

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Publisher: Baroque Horse PTY LTD ACN: 159 279 848 PO Box 18002 Clifford Gardens, Toowoomba QLD, Australia 4350 ©Baroque Horse Magazine AU. 2011 All Rigths Reserved. No part of this publication, editorial or advertisement, may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The content of the advertisements within this publication is the responsibility of the advertiser. Although due care is taken in the preparation and publication for all advertising material, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or for any consequential effects. Opinions and statements made by others in submitted text may not be the same as those held by either the publisher or the editor.

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A few moments with

Jane Savoie Photos: Rhett Savoie Written by: Michaela Wake

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ane Savoie was born and raised in Massachusetts, USA. She studied at the University of Massachusetts at Amerherst and was awarded a Bachelor of Science (Animal). Horses have always been an integral part of her life, and Jane rode hunters as a child, evented through college, and finally found her niche in dressage in 1976 when she relocated to Vermont and ran the riding program at the Vershire School Stable from 1976 – 1980.

Since 1980, Jane has been a motivational and keynote speaker, author and co-collaborator, dressage instructor, competitor and trainer, travelling clinician, and has home bases in both Vermont and Florida. She was the reserve rider for the Olympic Dressage team at Barcelona in 1992, and dressage coach for the Canadian 3DE team at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. The year 2000 saw her head Down Under to Australia, where she coached several 3DE riders from the US, Canada and Belgium in preparation for the Olympics.

Under Jane’s expert tuition, US Dressage Team Member Susan Blinks and her mount Flim Flam helped her team score the Olympic Bronze medal. Jane has coached Sue and Flim since he was a green three year old, so this accomplishment held a lot of meaning for both Jane and Sue. At the 2004 Athens Olympics, Jane was again accompanying the Canadian 3DE Team, and was an integral part in several of the riders achieving their personal best dressage scores, with an overall result of tenth as a team.

For many years, Jane’s faithful dressage partner has been the nowseventeen year old Grand Prix Friesian gelding, Moshi. Moshi is so popular throughout the dressage scene in the US that he has his own blog and regularly writes to his readers to share his view on life

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Jane Savoie as a dressage horse with Jane, and of course on the general goings-on about the place! To read more of Moshi’s adventures (and the wonderful advice he gives to other horses and humans alike!), you can find his blog on Jane’s website at www.janesavoie.com/ category/motivation-from-moshi/ BHM editor Michaela Wake had the opportunity to put some questions to Jane about all things dressage, baroque and Friesian, and here’s how things unfolded: Jane starts off recalling how she was first introduced to the Friesian breed and what exactly it was that piqued her interest and made her decide to purchase her very own Black Pearl.

Jane: “I think it was a little over twenty years ago. I was at Equitana in Kentucky and I had a booth near Proud Meadows Friesians, who were doing a lot of demonstrations, so whenever they went by my booth into the arena, I had a chance to see them, and I was completely taken by how beautiful they were! Their presence, their nobility, their colour...everything about them. I thought, ‘These are the most beautiful horses I have ever seen, and I WANT ONE!’ So I made up my mind then and there that I wanted one of these fairytale horses.”

Two years later, the dream became reality for Jane, with the help of internationallyacclaimed dressage rider Sabine Schut-Kery (who at that time, was riding with Proud 1 0.

Meadows). Sabine found the then fiveyear-old gelding, Moshi (Moshi is his stable name, his ‘real’ name is Menno) and thought Jane should take him on, albeit sight unseen.

Sabine assured Jane that he was a very forward-thinking horse with three good gaits.

“Proud Meadows were wonderful, they said…they wanted to see what would happen if a ‘non-traditional breed’ was trained with classical methods, and how far I could take him in his training. They understood that chemistry is chemistry though, and as nice a horse as he is, that once I got him (since I had not sat on him before he came to me), that if we didn’t click, then he could go back to Texas and they would find something else for me. I fell madly in love with him from the beginning, there was no way that you can’t. He’s just THE sweetest horse on the face of the earth, with a wonderful, wonderful work ethic. There was no going back for Moshi.”

BHM: Do you find Friesians different to train or work with than other breeds? If so, how?

Jane: “In a way, they are different, but I use the same system to train Friesians as I do any other horse, which is the training scale. I go by the training scale, but I have to spend more time thinking about different ingredients in the training scale, like honest connection, than I would perhaps for another type of horse.

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So, I think that they’re different really in

a couple of different ways. Number one, you have to be sure (well, you would with any horse), that because they’re so placid and laid-back by nature, that you don’t get into the trap of using more leg, more leg, more leg…that you teach the horse to… number one, go on his own and number two, be reactive to light aids. They really need to think forward in both those aspects.

Responsibility for their own energy, and reactivity to the driving aids.

Also, I think that just by their basic conformation, with this high set-on neck, low back, high hips…like I said, connection gets to be a real issue; as far as having them honestly connected, from behind, over the back, through the neck, into your hand…as opposed to just riding a horse who’s neck is arched and back is low.

The other thing is that they’re not bred to canter, they’re bred to trot. Often times the canter needs a lot of attention. That was one of the main things that I had to work on with Moshi. When I first got him, I remember the first canter that I had down the long side…and the ring that I was in was very large, it’s longer than a normal dressage arena, and I picked up left-lead canter, and I think I went down the long side in about five strides, and each of those strides had about seventeen beats, which is a real trick when you only have four legs! [Jane makes a noise that is a striking combination of thundering heart and irregular hoofbeats combined!]

It was really long and strung out, and there was no three-beat canter in there, it took

me quite a while to develop a three-beat canter, and if I wasn’t careful, that three-beat canter could easily degenerate into four beats. A lot of the basic work the first couple of years was just working on and developing a pure canter.”

BHM: Is there anything you think Friesians find particularly easy when it comes to dressage? Or alternatively, particularly hard or challenging?

Jane: “The piaffe and passage…and the transitions, piaffe, passage…just fell into my lap, like a gift. You could set your clock by the regularity of the rhythm for both piaffe, passage and the transitions. I could do it on a thought. So that was really nice that that was so easy for him to do.”

BHM: Is strength/stamina training different for Friesians than other breeds in your experience?

Jane: “I think the only thing that I need to be really careful of is their sensitivity to heat, that they’re not… that they don’t get overheated, they don’t do well in the heat, they’re not hot weather breeds. When Moshi first came from Holland, he immediately stopped sweating. I tried all kinds of the normal type things like OneAC, you know…stuff that you would get from the vet, and interestingly enough, the thing that kick-started his sweating was the cheapest dark beer I could find.

He would have an adult beverage every evening (which he truly enjoyed!), with his dinner, and that kick-started his sweating, and then he was okay. So that’s the main thing that I would be concerned with, particularly importing a Friesian, that you keep an eye on that they do sweat, and that they don’t really love the heat, so that your work in that case, would be slower, shorter, whatever…to allow them not to get stressed.” w w w. bar o q u e hors e m ag azi nE.com

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BHM: If you could give just one piece of advice to anyone with a baroque horse as they work their way through the dressage levels, what would it be?

Jane: “I would give two pieces of advice.

The first is to make sure that the horse is reactive to light aids. In other words, that the horse is in front of the driving aids, but then secondly, it’s really, really important that the horse is honestly connected, that you don’t just ride an arched neck, where the horse is posing on the bit, because you’re going to run into problems. You might make it through second level okay, but when it comes time to teach those flying changes, if the horse isn’t over his back, you’re going to have a really, really difficult time with flying changes, with doing clean flying changes.

So connection, connection, connection… the third ingredient in the training scale.”

BHM: Do you think many judges (or indeed, anyone else, for that matter!) have trouble looking past the feather and ‘cart horse’ mentality when it comes to Friesians in the dressage arena? What do you say to this sort of attitude?

Jane: “I have never experienced any kind of prejudice…maybe I’ve just been lucky and I’ve had good judges…but I get comments like “super horse,” or just comments on the training of the horse.

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So I think that the really good judges can look past different breeds and different colours and different styles of horses, and just comment on the training a’la the training scale. Is the training correct? I haven’t really encountered any kind of prejudice.”

go straight forward again, I give another half halt, and in the corner before the lengthening, I give another half halt.

BHM: Is there a piece of advice that you have been given over the years that has stuck with you and you still find yourself referring to, day-to-day? If so, what was it?

BHM: Who/what inspires you and who are your classical influences?

Jane: “A piece of advice that has been given to me over the years, that I still refer to day after day is the half halt. It is the doorway through which you do every change of gait, movement, or exercise. I think that’s what separates amateurs from professionals. Amateurs often ride from movement to movement if they’re doing a first level dressage test, they think of “I do a ten metre circle, and then I’m going to do a leg yield, and then I’m going to do a lengthening across the diagonal.”

Whereas a professional thinks of it in terms of the connective tissue, “I do a half halt to balance my horse, to bring my horse to a more perfect state of balance as I go from the long side, into the circle, and then as I get ready to leave the circle, I give another half halt, and as I start my leg yield, I give another half halt, and as I finish my sideways part of the leg yield to

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So focusing on the connective tissue in between the movements, the half halt is the name of the game for me.”

Jane: “What inspires me? Anything that registers on what I call my ‘goosebump scale’, because it simply is beautiful. Whether it’s dancing or riding, or whatever. ‘Beautiful’ for me includes several things, that there’s harmony, that there’s joy, that there’s a partnership, that it appears that the rider is beside the point, that the horse willingly, happily, on his own, does what he’s asked to do, and the rider just sits absolutely quietly, just sits up there like a queen or a king, just sits up there doing nothing. The aids should be refined, the aids should be invisible.”

BHM: What do you look for in a dressage horse (of any breed)?

Jane: “I look for a sound horse with three pure gaits and a good brain. I want a horse that’s a volunteer. I would take a horse with less extravagant gaits, as long as he’s sound, and he has a good brain.

I know I can develop the gaits through good classical training, but the soundness,

Jane Savoie

without soundness you have nothing, and without the good brain, training cannot progress as happily as both partners would like it to be.”

BHM: How would you sum up the Friesian breed in a nutshell, when describing them to someone who has never heard of them? I constantly get the “Friesians? Aren’t they cows?!” comment when I’m out and about with mine!

Jane: “I think that the Friesian breed is wonderful. I think the horses are beautiful… like I said, romantic, fairytale type horses.

For the most part, docile…with a very, very sweet temperament, very people oriented.

I think of Moshi as being like a black lab in a horse suit. He’s just…it’s like having a great big dog…he would be in your pocket, he’ll be in the paddock and I can call to him, and as much as he loves his grass, his head will pop up like a periscope on a submarine, and he’ll come trotting across the field to me as fast as he can. I love that bond, that relationship. It would be the same as calling my dog over to me.”

BHM: Could you tell us something funny that has happened to you and Moshi in the past that still makes you smile or laugh when you think about it?

Jane: “I’ve taught…I guess I’m a little strange, but I’ve taught Moshi some dog

tricks…I go, “Speak Moshi, speak!” and he goes ‘nicker, nicker’ [Jane does a very good interpretation of a horse nickering gently!]

On the other hand, my dog Indy (my golden retriever), he can do Spanish walk, so they’re pretty much interchangeable in my mind as far as their wonderful temperaments, personalities and their connection with humans.”

BHM: What do you do with your horses outside the dressage arena? How do you have ‘time out’ from training with them?

Jane: “The horses have at least one complete hack day a week. Usually on work days, they hack a little bit before they go into the ring and/or after they go into the ring. On occasion when the lake…well, it’s more like a pond…is deep enough, we let them go swimming, we will work over poles, we will play with them, we will teach them tricks using clicker training, anything to develop that bond, to play with the horses and make it fun for everybody.”

have had many requests to go to Australia and New Zealand, and it’s something that I would love to do. It’s just a matter of the additional travel time there and back, in addition to the time I would spend there, that right at this moment I’m not able to block out that much time to do that. But I’m not saying no for the future!”

BHM would like to thank Jane Savoie very much for her time and contribution.

We look forward to hearing more of Jane and Moshi’s adventures as they continue to teach and open the eyes of so many dressage riders, both new and experienced, in their quest to become better partners for their equine friends.

Find out more at www.janesavoie.com a

BHM: Do you travel much for clinics anymore? Would coming to Australia be a possibility?

Jane: “In recent years, I’ve been travelling less and less to do clinics, because I have so much going on at home here, and yes, in the future, when I finish up some of my current projects, I would love to go to Australia. I

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444 Sport

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Norbert 444 Sport and Gemma Sas

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What is the Stallion Keuring and what does it mean?

Each stallion receiving entry into this prestigious studbook is given a life number that correlates to the order in which he was approved for entry. Norbert’s sire Tsjerk 328 is the 328th Studbook Stallion to be approved, his dam sire Hearke 254 was the 254th Studbook Stallion, and so on. To receive one of these seemingly unimportant three-digit numbers is considered to be the highest honour available to any Friesian stallion. In a little over 130 years, there have only been 482 stallions that have been granted approval to breed (that’s an average of only 3-4 per year!), and of those, many have later had their approval revoked due to insufficient quality in their offspring.

Every year since 1949, some two hundred or so young stallions have been put through their paces, before the best of the best are invited to undergo the 70-day Stallion Testing at Ermelo in The Netherlands. To make it through to the 70-day Performance Test, a stallion must be superior in nearly every way. He must also pass stringent tests, including semen analysis, x-rays, temperament evaluation, and be of the highest quality for movement and conformation. His walk, trot and canter will be scored, at liberty and under saddle/in harness.

He will be ridden, driven and handled in all manner of different ways. His suitability as a dressage horse will be tested, and the same will be done for harness and show driving.

by: Michaela Wake

The three to four stallions that pass this extremely strict testing process each year are registered in the Adult Studbook (as opposed to most stallions who remain in the Foalbook register for life) and receive approval rights to breed, and that much-coveted three-digit Studbook number and traditional Friesian name. Those rights come with conditions however, and full approval is only granted once their offspring have been judged, and they are deemed to be making a good contribution to the breed. Studbook Stallions are the cream of the crop, the pinnacle within the noble breed that is the Friesian Horse. The KFPS is the oldest studbook in the Netherlands, and to own a stallion with breeding rights within that studbook is considered very prestigious indeed.

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ithout a doubt, Norbert 444 Sport is a stallion from which dreams are made. He captures hearts all over the world with his good looks, amazing progeny and wonderful temperament. He is the 444th Friesian stallion to be registered and approved for breeding in the Koninklijke Vereniging “Het Friesche Paarden Stamboek” (KFPS - the Royal Society of the Friesian Horse Studbook) since its inception in 1879. He is also the ONLY stallion in history to have won the prestigious title of Champion of the Stallion Show for three years running, after taking out the title yet again in January 2014.

In January of each year, the Central Hengstenkeuring (HK or Stallion Show) is held at the WTC Centre in Leeuwarden, NL and runs over three action-packed days. Over seven thousand Friesian lovers from around the world flock to this huge event of all things Friesian. There is something for everyone, with both ridden and harness displays, educational clinics on everything from judging and conformation, to showing and presentation.

There are stalls and shopping, food and drinks, the music is loud, the lights are bright and the crowd is on its feet and cheering as the stallions charge around the arena. The second and third rounds of testing for the young stallions are held too, and they are presented both in hand, and at liberty.

It is compulsory for all approved stallions under twelve years of age to be presented for inspection at the Stallion Show, unless they have a veterinary certificate excusing them due to injury or poor health. For stallions thirteen and over, it is not compulsory, but many still attend due to popular demand from the public. The crowd loves to see these older gentlemen still out strutting their stuff and looking every inch the prestigious horses they are.

At each annual Stallion Show, a Champion and Reserve Champion ribbon is awarded to the very best of each category of stallions – the younger stallions that have not yet been approved on offspring, and the older stallions with full approval. At the end of the three days, an overall Champion of the Stallion Show is awarded, and the stallion that receives this coveted title can hold his head high knowing he has beaten the best of the best, and come out on top.

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Photo by Cally Matherly

Photo by Nadeen Davis

To realise just how unprecedented and amazing this achievement is, we must first understand a little of the history of the Studbook stallions and the incredible event that is the annual KFPS Stallion Show. To do so, please do view the section about the Keuring.

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Standing well over 16hh and with an outstanding score for racial type (appearance true to the breed standard), Norbert tends to throw foals with good forearms and well defined legs, allowing for ample room in the walk and a very powerful trot. His offspring also tend to have nice heads and good feet, an important trait that should never be overlooked.

His versatility as a riding and driving horse, his ability to pass his qualities on to his foals, and his legendary three-time Champion status in the Stallion Show arena all make Norbert 444 one of the most awarded Friesian sires around today. Receiving well over 150 breedings per year, Norbert already has an Approved son in Hette 481 and a handful of Crown daughters, despite only being ten years old himself. The future looks very bright indeed for this amazing Champion!

Photo by Nadeen Davis

In 2010, Norbert successfully competed in

many harness and sport events throughout the Netherlands and finished the year as the Southern Regional Champion. In 2011, he moved into the dressage arena, and earned enough points to be awarded the Sports predicate title. He is currently competing at Z level in The Netherlands (Medium/Advanced) and will hopefully be entering his first FEI competitions soon.

are regularly awarded day Champions at local foal Keurings throughout the Netherlands. In 2012, Norbert had his first sons selected for the stallion inspections at Ermelo, and in each year thereafter, he has been well represented through all rounds of the testing phase. His daughters are proving to be phenomenally successful too, with his first crop of three yearold mares yielding more than one provisional Crown* and a Grand Champion to boot!

Norbert’s Lineage *The Crown predicate is given to mares of three years of age or older who have received a first premie ster rating at least twice, and have passed a ridden or driven IBOP aptitude test with a minimum score of 77 points.

Norbert is out of a Model Preferent dam from Stam 25, and by well known Sport Preferent sire, Tsjerk 328. His paper oozes quality, with all but three of his ancestors attaining the Preferent status in four generations. His dam sire, Hearke 254 Preferent is considered one of the more influential sires of the time, and his dam was Champion of the Central Mare Keuring in 1996 and completed an outstanding IBOP (suitability and aptitude test – min score is 77) of 88 points!

NORBERT 444 results from the Stallion Performance Testing Norbert completed the Stallion Performance Test in 2008. Here is what the KFPS Inspection Jury had to say about him on completion:

Becoming an Approved Stallion

Exterior:

Norbert was permanently approved on offspring in 2012. This means he has satisfied every condition required, and is now considered a fully approved breeding stallion.

When his first foal crop hit the ground in 2009, he had an unbelievably high 84% first and second premie foals, and since then has continued along that vein by topping the tables again in 2013 with the highest number of first premie foals. His offspring

Breed Type: Norbert is a stallion with much breed type. He has an expressive face, and a long, beautifully shaped neck.

Build: Norbert is a youthful, sufficiently upward built stallion that stands in the rectangle.

Legs: The hind legs are slightly bow-legged, but are hard and dry.

Photo by Cally Matherly

In the 135-year history of judging Friesian stallions, no stallion had ever received this coveted title more than twice in a row…until this year. 2014 saw history made, when the ten-year old Norbert 444 won his THIRD Champion of the Stallion Show title. Even more unprecedented, his son Hette 481 was Champion of the younger stallions! Norbert’s owner (and breeder) Jan Van der Zee was quoted as saying “I was even more nervous than last year!” when Norbert was yet again sashed Champion in front of a thunderous crowd

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Performance Testing Training Report: Norbert is a friendly stallion that is easy to be around. Norbert was only moderately muscled upon arrival, but that improved strongly during the testing. In part and because of this, the performance level of the stallion was also improved strongly during the testing. The stallion gives the rider a good feeling with especially good self-carriage. The hind legs however could come under better.

The stallion is easy to work with.

Walk: The walk is active with sufficient rhythm, but could have more room. He moves well through the body.

Trot: Norbert has a beautiful self-carriage in trot, and shows good suppleness and use of the back. The hind legs are sufficiently active, but could come under more, especially under

saddle. In front of the car, the use of the hind legs is clearly better. The front legs are placed forward with sufficient room. In trot, the stallion shows sufficient balance.

Canter: The stallion is sufficiently upward in the canter, but could have more room in the strides, and come under more with the hind legs.

Suitability as a riding horse: Norbert has more than sufficient aptitude as a riding horse.

He has beautiful self-carriage, more than sufficient quality in the basic gaits, but could have a better use of the hind legs.

Suitability as a driving horse: Norbert has more than sufficient aptitude as a driving horse. He shows a beautiful self-carriage and good use of the hind legs. The front legs are placed well forward.

Suitability as a show-driving horse: Norbert

has more than sufficient aptitude as a showdriving horse. In the show-driving test, he brings his hind legs under well, and has more than sufficient suspension. He could show a bit more balance and ‘sit’ a bit more in the back. The stallion has beautiful use of the front legs.

Editor’s note – whilst terms like ‘sufficient’ and ‘could use a bit more’ or ‘bow-legged’ might sound alarming to readers, please remember that these stallions are as close to perfect as the breed gets, and these comments must be taken in context. Approved stallions are within the top 1% of the breed, and any imperfections are minor at best. Remember too that the language is taken directly from the Dutch commentary, so terminology may lose effect in the translation. a

Results Central Performance Testing Scores saddle test: Walk Trot Canter HSW* Transitions 6.5 7 7 7.5 6.5

Suitability 7

Scores Driving Test Walk Trot HSW* Transitions Willingness to Work 6 8 7.5 7.5 7.5 *HSW is self carriage, acceptance of the bit and flexibility.

Total Score 76.5 Suitability 7.5

Total Score 80.5

Scores Show-Driving Test Self Carriage Suspension Use of front legs Use of hind legs Willingness to Work Suitability Total Score 8 7.5 7.5 8 7.5 8 85

Conclusion Performance Testing: Norbert showed much progress during the testing. He has more aptitude in front of the cart than under saddle, especially because in harness, the stallion has a better use of the hind legs.

Final Conclusion: Based on his strong, predicate-rich pedigree, his beautiful exterior, and his more than sufficient-to-good results in the performance testing, the stallion Norbert is registered in the Studbook register with the name Norbert 444.

Below: HRH Princess Beatrix pats Norbert

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23.

Interview with Jasper van Manen stud owner of van Manen’s stables Holland, where the Great legendary Norbert 444 stand at stud in The Netherlands

By Grace lamers Q. What work does Norbert enjoy most? Driving or riding?

A. It doesn’t matter to him, he enjoys all his work and loves to show off.

Q. What is Norbert’s personality like?

A. Norbert is very easygoing, with calm and willing nature and tries hard to please.

Q. How is he Norbert with kids?

A. When Norbert’s family come to visit, they love to let their kids ride and sit on him, and he is very relaxed about it all.

Q. How did you and Norbert’s owners feel when he won Champion of the Stallion Show three years in a row?

A. Both the owners and ourselves were so pleased when he won again, it’s not something that’s ever been done before, we were amazed!

Q. What is Norbert like to ride?

A. He is a very forward moving horse who loves to show off for a crowd, he is definitely not lazy and is very easy to sit.

Q. What does everyone love most about him?

A. His beautiful nature, his powerful movement and his excellent conformation.

Q. Who rides Norbert?

A. Norbert has a female rider, Gemma Sas. A few years back however, Judith Pieterson was riding him.

Q. What are his most prepotent traits that he regularly passes on to his progeny?

A. Norbert passes on his powerful movement and good conformation, and it is usually easy to pick Norbert foals out of a crowd.

Q. How does it feel to have such a Champion stallion standing at your Stud?

Champion daughter CK 2013

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A. It feels great! It is fantastic advertising, and our name is now well known because of him.

Q. How do the owners feel about having such a top stallion?

A. The family that owns him are very proud for sure, especially so because they bred him themselves.

Q. Was Norbert chosen as the Horse of the Year? What does this mean to you/Norbert?

A. Yes, Norbert was awarded the “Horse of the Year 2013”.

This is a title of great honour, it is not something that just any horse will receive, it must be something very special. This title increased his service fee, but of course, being the Stallion Show Champion three years in a row helps too!

Q. Can you share with us just how many mares Norbert has bred since he was first approved for breeding six years ago?

A. Norbert has bred around 1100 mares for the last six years.

Q. What is the highlight for Norbert’s breeding career so far?

A. His daughter Ilse Ilda T was Champion of the three year old mares at the Central Mare Keuring in Holland, and another of his daughters, Grietje van de Gonda was Reserve Champion. Elza Maiike van de Noeste Hoeve was the Champion of the four to six year old mares, and she is another of his daughters, as is the two year old Janneke B, who was the Supreme Champion of the Central Mare Keuring!

At the stallion qualification test in 2013, two of Norbert’s sons became approved Studbook Stallions, and one of them was also the overall Champion of the testing.

Q. Was Norbert special as a foal? Did you know that he would be as good as he is?

A. We saw Norbert for the first time when he was two and a half years old. At that time, we thought he was something special....there was something about him that the others just didn’t have. Later on, our thoughts were confirmed and he continued to be supreme amongst the other stallions. a

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THE

1st Lesson

by Master Luis Valença

Translated and photos by Cátia Castro

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he horse is an animal that is easily domesticated, and this is why man (throughout various stages of civilisation), began to use it as an essential member (element) of his day-to-

day life.

Due to its agility, responsiveness, flexibility, and ability to sense the abnormal in its habitat, the horse was first used as a hunting companion, then as a war companion who (until today) was an indispensable element in the armies. In modern times, we can use this history to gain an understanding of what makes the horse tick, which means we can teach and train them without breaking their personality or spirit. This is of utmost importance.

The first lesson we must learn is how to communicate with the horse, and to establish ourselves as a senior member of the herd that will enforce rules, but not as an intruder.

Usually the beginning of the first lesson commences with the horse on a lunge rein in a circle of approximately thirteen metres.

The circle is a round, symmetrical track where the horse, over time, will have a uniform movement, and will equally distribute his weight in his fore and hind feet, and later begin to have what is called ‘cadence’ (regularity through the gaits).

For this first phase of lunging work, we have to realise that if the horse has been stabled or kept in a small paddock, that he will be full of energy and need to expend some before we can ask him to concentrate and focus. A horse is an animal that is full of strength, agility and power, and it is very important that the first lunging phase allows the horse to stretch and make the moves he wants.

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This can often include cantering and leaping about, but it must be on the lunge circle imposed by us. By watching carefully, we can begin to note several points: 1 - If the animal on the track is well balanced; 2 - If the motion is equal or if there is a delay in any footfall; 3 - The timing of his strength until he reaches a more relaxed gait.

4 - Here we begin to enter the first code: our voice in two different sounds: One for positive, and one for negative behaviour. The horse doesn’t realise the meaning of the words, but learns to understand the sound they produce, just like human babies.

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5 - The horse must respect the circle and learn how to stop within that circle line; the handler will come to the horse in a meeting point on that line. Result? The horse accepts that a human can go to him without causing any fear.

When changing direction from a right-rein circle to a left-rein circle, the movement should be done with the handler outside the circle, ensuring the horse does not have the temptation to come in half way and thus respects the command to halt on the circle.

In this First Lesson guide, we’ve introduced various codes and agreements between horse and man: 1 - The sound of the voice to say positive or negative; 2 - The horse respects the circle track where he works, and learns how to stop it and accept the movement of the handler towards him.

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After these rules are in place, we can start to help the horse through the exercises by positioning him in place, and by helping him to make contact with the snaffle.

In riding, the main rule is to position the horse’s body for the exercise we want the horse to execute, regardless of whether it is the simplest or the most complicated exercise.

In this case, we are referring to the circle.

We will use fixed reins (i.e. reins that go from the lunging surcingle to the bit), for the horse to begin to have contact with the snaffle, and at the same time allowing him to bend his body to the line of the circle, putting the inside rein shorter than the outside rein.

A word of advice to allow the horse to accept without fear when using fixed reins for the first time: Fit the outside rein first as it is the one that counters the movement. If the horse is not comfortable, we allow a little more length on the lunge

rein. The pressure on the outside rein will then lessen, and little by little, we can shorten the lunge rein and increase the contact until the horse accepts the action of the outside rein.

After acceptance of the outside rein, you can then fit the inside rein and from that point, the work is controlled by the handler; that is to say that the horse no longer moves of his own free will, but by the will of the handler.

When running multiple circles, the horse begins to take the uniform motion that shows cadence, which means good distribution of the weight between the front and hind limbs. This work should be executed in trot, with some transitions to walk, then back up to trot and down again.

To ask for the walk, we make a sound and simulate that we are moving towards to the horse, as if it were to stop, but we don’t go out of our centre line. Usually the horse will transition from the trot to walk, and at the same time we will increase the length of the lunge rein.

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Once we have achieved this stage, we continue onto the next stage; the transitions from trot to canter. The trot is a two-beat gait, where the contact is even on the fixed reins but flexing as each pair of opposite diagonals works together; whereas the canter is an uneven movement and there is contact in the reins for all three beats. If the horse is not comfortable in these transitions, we go back to trot.

We try to steady the horse and encourage good rhythm and cadence and then repeat the canter - as many times as necessary until the horse makes a good transition, and adapts his vertebral spine to the new movement.

“To get this, first you have to do start on this first lesson..”

The education system with horses is always the same - repeat, learn from the previous exercise and ensure the handler has considerable patience, attention and respect: Attention - every second we work on the lunge, we are observing the behaviour of the horse.

Patience - we should never lose patience with the horse, and whenever necessary we repeat the exercises.

Respect – have respect for the horse. He is a student that is learning – a process during which it is acceptable for him to make some mistakes.

This concludes the first lesson on the lunge rein.

We have introduced the concepts of communication between human and horse, and these will serve us well for other lessons yet to come. The construction of a rational and passionate way of learning is paramount for our student, the horse. a www.facebook.com/ValencaEquestrianTours www.facebook.com/Luis-Valença-Equestrian-Art

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• Spanish •

b e h i n D

School Quadrille_© Spanish Riding School_ASAblanca.com_René van Bakel 3 2.

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t h e

s c e n e s

Andreas Hausberger Chief Rider Andreas Hausberger_ ©Spanish Riding School_Stefan Seelig

Baroque Horse Magazine takes a look behind the scenes to talk to three of the Spanish Riding School’s best, Andreas Hausberger, Herwig Radnetter and Johannes Hamminger in a fun and interesting mini interviews!

Name: Andreas Hausberger Position Title:

Favourite part of the School:

Chief Rider and Director of the Training Centre Heldenberg

Of course I love the horses and the tradition behind the School, but also the philosophy of how we train our stallions.

My role: Favourite activity to do and why: I am in charge of training horses and riders.

Additionally I run the Training Centre Heldenberg (Lower Austria) as Director.

Length of time at the School: In 1984, I began my career with the Spanish Riding School; in 2007 I was promoted to Chief Rider; in 2012 I became Director of the Training Centre Heldenberg.

I have two favourite activities. My first is to work horses on the Long Rein, and my second is to train and ride young horses and to train young riders.

Who’s Who......

Favourite horse:

I love all my horses, but I am especially close to Conversano Dagmar.

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Johannes HAMMINGER

Herwig RADNETTER Rider Herwig Radnetter_© Spanish Riding School_Stefan Seelig

Chief Stable Master Johannes Hamminger _© Spanish Riding School_Rene van Bakel - Kopie

Name: Herwig Radnetter

Name: Johannes Hamminger

Position Title: Rider and Administrative Head of the Equestrian Team

Position Title: Chief Stable Master My role:

My role: I am in charge of training horses and riders, and I also do some office work concerning the schedules for training and performances.

I am entrusted with responsibility for all the School Stallions stabled in the Stallburg in Vienna and the Training Centre in Heldenberg (Lower Austria).

Length of time at the School:

Length of time at the School:

At only 15 years of age (I am now 53), I began my career with the Spanish Riding School, and to this day I am convinced I have ‘the greatest job in the world’. In 1988, I was promoted to the rank of a Rider, and since last summer, I am now also responsible for the administrative management of the Equestrian Team.

I joined the School in 1976, and completed the entire training programme up to the rank of a Rider. In 1989, I became Stable Master.

Favourite part of the School: Of course, I love the work with the horses and the variety of my duties that include training young horses and performing in front of an audience.

Favourite part of the School: The Spanish Riding School Vienna is the world’s oldest riding academy, and can look back on 440 years of history and tradition. Being part of it fills me with pride and satisfaction.

Favourite activity to do and why:

Favourite activity to do and why: My favourite thing to do is the Levade. Each and every time, it is still very special to feel the development of pure strength in the hind quarter of the horse.

My life is dedicated to horses. I care deeply for the interaction between horse and groom. The stallions’ health and well-being, whether in Vienna, in Heldenberg or on tour, is always my highest priority.

Favourite horse:

Favourite horse: Siglavy Theodora I Conversano Mantua

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TRIBUTE TO

VIENNA A

The Spanish Riding School and the Vienna Boys’ Choir …Two world-famous cultural institutions

T

ake part in a premiere! Two of the most famous Austrian cultural institutions present their exceptional cooperation in the baroque ambiance of the Winter Riding School in the Imperial Hofburg Palace.

You will experience the High School of Classical Horsemanship and the wonderful songs and choral arrangements of the Vienna Boys’ Choir.

The Vienna Boys’ Choir was established by Maximilian I of Habsburg more than 500 years ago. The choir is the modern-day descendant of the boys’ choirs from the Viennese Court. Till this day the choir has been cherishing its Imperial tradition.

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the world which has practiced for over 440 years and continues to cultivate classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the Haute Ecole.

A TRIBUTE TO VIENNA will show the highlights of the Ballet of the White Stallions alternating with the musical performance of the world’s undoubtedly most renowned boys’ choir, the Vienna Boys’ Choir.

A

You are invited to be whisked away and accompany us on a journey back to the times of Maria Theresia. Witness both, the High School of Classical Horsemanship and the wonderful songs and choral arrangements of the Vienna Boys’ Choir! A TRIBUTE TO VIENNA is a unique opportunity to experience those world-famous cultural institutions in a common performance.

Besides their centuries’ long history it is their public accountability of cultivating, preserving, and keeping alive national heritage of culture what unites both institutions.

Capriole, Levade and Bandit’s Gallop The Spanish Riding School shows three program points from its broad repertoire. For A TRIBUTE TO VIENNA two new pieces have been added to the Vienna Boys’ Choir’s repertoire: Bandit’s Gallop and the famous Radetzky Marsch (Johann Strauss I). Additionally, the boys intonate the Trish Trash Polka and Eljen a Magyar (Johann Strauss II), the Blue Danube Waltz (Johann Strauss I) as well as the Zigeunerleben (Robert Schumann).

TRIBUTE TO

VIENNA

performances is moderated in German and English.

Dates A TRIBUTE TO VIENNA · Friday April 11th, 2014 7pm · Thursday June 5th, 2014 7pm · Thursday June 12th, 2014 7pm · Thursday June 19th, 2014 7pm · Friday September 12th, 2014 7pm · Friday September 19th, 2014 7pm · Friday September 26th, 2014 7pm · Friday October 3rd, 2014 7pm · Thursday October 9th, 2014 7pm · Friday December 5th, 2014 7pm

A Tribute to Vienna_© Vienna Boys' Choir_Lukas Beck - Kopie INFO & TICKETS Tel.: +43 1 533 90 31–0 | office@srs.at | Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna Seats from EUR 47 to EUR 130 Standing Room EUR 23 Please refer to our website www.srs.at for further information! © Spanish Riding School_Julie Brass - Kopie

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W h e r e P h o t o g r a p hy m e e t s A r t .

As many may know, we here at BHM do love our photography and Art. Just recently we had the opportunity to talk to photographer and artist Ozana Sturgeon on her photography and digital art, where she turns photos into digital paintings.

BHM: How and when did you get started in photography and digital art?

OS: When I was in college and started to travel Europe on my own, I wanted to bring all the cool memories I’d seen and all that I had experienced back with me to share along with my stories. Photography became part of me.

I started in digital art about a year ago when I started messing around with one of the photographs that I’d played with the texture. I’m always curious to see what else I can do with a photograph, and digital painting was a new and exciting way of working.

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Ozana is an equestrian, professional photographer and mixed media artist with over fifteen years of experience in many different aspects of the horse industry. She provides stock, editorial, art and personal images for all your equine, canine, portraits, ranch and events needs.

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I love some pictures just the way they are, straight out of the camera and others I look at them and see them in a different scene and that’s where digital painting comes in, that’s what helps me blend the two stories.

BHM: In which software do you do your digital painting? How long would a digital painting take, and what is your creative process (from photos to painting)?

OS: I use Photoshop CS6 to compose the scene and then I use Corel Painter X3 to paint, and a lot of the time I switch back and forth until I think I’m done.

BHM: How long would a digital painting take and 3 8.

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what is your creative process (from photos to painting)?

OS: Creating digital art is a blast. A variety of tools exist, but these tools are not easy when you first start. I’m also constantly learning, so sometimes I might take half a day, whereas other times it can take all day. I do work in layers and try to save as I go so that I can stop and go back later if I have to.

BHM: Do you have a favourite piece of art (when I say art …I also include photos too.)?

OS: My favourite is always my next one, the one I haven’t made yet, the one I’m going to make when I’ve learned more and so it should look better...I really like them all...since to me they’re all steps,

little pieces of my learning progress. I am self-taught, so to me each represents the day I’ve learnt how to do a different thing.

Canon. Now I have a Canon 1 DX and a Canon Mark II as a second body, and of course I have a variety of lenses and strobes.

BHM: Who or what inspires you?

BHM: Do you have any funny moments when photographing horses?

OS: Horses always inspire me. I’m really that little girl that dreamt of ponies all day and never grew up and never got over it. There is this immense addictive sweetness in the soul of a horse, and the few of us that get to go out there with them can never get enough for the rest of our lives.

OS: I always try to take pictures of horses when they make silly faces, so I’ll start sticking my tongue out or yawn to get them to imitate me, and I always think if somebody sees me they’ll think I’ve lost it…but it really works!

BHM: What camera gear do you use?

BHM: Why horses?

OS:

OS:

I use Canon. The first nice camera I got as a present was a

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have was the plastic ones. I was glued to the car window every time we went out of town and passed the only stables in town just to steal few images of them. When I lived in France, the house I was in was twenty minutes from Chantilly, the living museum of the horse, and it became my favourite hang out place. I was like a sponge, absorbing all the horse beauty and knowledge around me. The friends I stayed with rode English and taught me all they knew. Later in life, I moved to the States and became fascinated with the cowboy way and the old West, and went on and later opened my own stables so I could have them close day and night.

BHM: Do you sell prints of your photos/art? If so where can people get it?

OS: I do on Fine Art America and on my website. www.ozanaphotography.com http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/ozana-sturgeon.html www.facebook.com/Ozanaphotography a

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Horses of

Interest Common Myths and Sayings

Photos and Article

by Joan Sankey

ince we have been covering stories on horse and rider Sstatues statues, perhaps we should explain just exactly what those mean, or the myths behind them.

Let’s go down the different types of statues; first we have the statue that is just the horse – no rider. This is a purely equine statue.

Next step, let’s put a rider on him and he has now become an equestrian statue. Now let’s position him. If all four hooves are on the ground, the myth is that the rider didn’t die in battle, but died outside of the battlefield - perhaps from natural causes. If there is one hoof lifted, then the rider was injured in battle or died from wounds received in battle. Finally, a rearing horse is generally interpreted as the rider dying in battle. These are just general beliefs and do not hold true for all statues, but they are a nice tale to tell.

Interestingly, most equestrian statues over the centuries have depicted monarchs or military leaders due to the expense of producing them.

They were far too expensive for the general populace to erect.

Ever wondered where the expression ‘From the horse’s mouth’ came from? In racing circles, it was an expression to give tips on which horse was most likely to win. The most reliable source for this information would generally have come from trainers and stable hands. Naturally, however the best source would be from the horse itself!

How about the saying ‘Get off your high horse’? It is believed to have originated in England in the days of early nobility. As only the gentry could afford horses, when they passed the peasants (who would invariably be on foot), they would appear as if they were a lot higher up, literally being on their high horse. As a result, they would be looking down on the peasants and appear superior, hence it invariably came to mean that someone thought they were better than someone else.

The term ‘Hold your horses’ is believed to have originated in the USA around the nineteenth century. However, mentions of ‘holding your horses’ go back even further with references to the Chinese needing to restrain their horses with the invention of gunpowder and the noise it made. This can be extended to military and battle noise from as far back as the Romans. Homer also makes mention of ‘hold your horses’ in his classic book, ‘The Iliad’, where he makes reference to chariots being driven like maniacs. So today, we generally take the expression to mean to slow down or wait.

It’s fascinating just how many of these old turns of phrase have become commonplace in our modern vernacular. Nary a second thought is given about them when they are spoken, but perhaps next time you say ‘Hold your horses’, you might think twice and spare a thought for the maniacal chariot driver who became the reason those very words are spoken today!. a

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Hair accessories

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Bling Belts

Leather belt with crystals $69.95.

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Russian

carriage driving Traditions alive By: Marina Velikanova President of the Russian carriage driving lovers society

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[ all Photos Supplied ]

ussia is the largest country on Earth, and with such vast and immense territories, fast and reliable transport has always been a necessity.

Up until the late eighteenth century, most horses involved in the transportation system were from local forest or steep (do you think they mean ‘steppe’ here?) breeds, but the aristocrats also imported horses from Persia and Europe (mostly from Holland), in addition to Italian and Spanish horses. The Russian or Orlov Trotter can thank the brilliant age of Catherine the Great (Princess from Anhalt-Zerbst house, who became one of the most successful and well-known rulers of Russian Empire) for its existence. Created after a thorough selection process, these horses suited long distance work on Russian roads and became famous for their beauty, intelligence and character. It is worth mentioning that they are also very good under saddle.

We must pay homage to the history of the Orlov Trotter before we can truly appreciate the history of traditional carriage driving in modern Russia.

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49.

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he story of modern-day traditional carriage driving in Russia started in 1954, when a group of enthusiasts at the All-Russia Exhibition of Economic Achievements revived the troika. It was soon considered obligatory for each state stud farm, or each state stable to have a troika, and thankfully, the troika was supported on the highest level as it was considered a national symbol.

ue to a very simple and logical structure of harness, this type of universal turnout could exist in both a luxurious and a more economical version. The main feature is a bow, a specially curved piece of wood that carries the shafts. All travellers visiting Russia from as early as the sixteenth century had admired the troika. The most luxurious and classic troika was pulled by the Orlov trotters – mighty, beautiful and picturesque horses. Postal troikas that could be very quickly and easily re-hitched, made the Imperial Mail of Russia no less efficient, and just as fast as the Royal Mail.

ome years ago, the Orlov troika (along with the obligatory Orlov trotters) had been gifted to the United States by Nikita Khruschev, the Head of the Soviet State, as they were considered the best “State present”. Championships with racing and dressage tests were also held on hippodromes and other large sporting arenas, as well as festivals where guests and patrons could experience troika rides. It is considered an obligatory element of Russian souvenirs. Vladimir Fomin, Anton Tarabuev, Nina Vetoshkina, Andrey Korchagin, Alexander Pankov – these are just some names of Troika Masters of the new troika era.

D

T

here are some amazing recounts from the past of foreign experiences with troikas - the memoirs of Alexander Dumas are a very interesting read, detailing how Russians hunt wolves on troika; and a story of a British Major-General Sir C. Teesdale - his experience of travelling from Caucuses to Saint Petersburg in 1855. Chapter 18 in the classic volume XI “Driving” from the iconic Badminton Library issued by the Duke of Beaufort in the late nineteenth century, “First the splendid trotters attract the eye, then the gorgeous isvostchik in square gold-laced cap, bearded to the eyes and begirt with a smart sash around his furred caftan… ” (p. 341)

I

t has been said that Russians cannot exist without speed and adrenaline, and the troika fits this habit the best! Usual tests for trotters are nothing in comparison with that of troikas.

Troika racing can be compared with Formula 1 in the prestige world of motorsport – they use the most sophisticated carriages with technical improvements, specially trained horses, and of course the best are the Orlovs.

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arriages and harness vehicles in Russia were often imported from Europe, and the streets of Moscow, St Petersburg, Irkutsk and Vladivostok were not so different from the European cities in the nineteenth century. There was however, one striking difference: the Russian Troika. This is the only type of harnessed vehicle where the driver uses four reins for three horses, and the horses are moving in different gaits.

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owadays, classic FEI driving as a sport has started to develop in Russia, and Orlovs are still holding leadership positions over other breeds. The reigning Driving Champion of Russia - four-times Champion, Svetlana Prokhorova, has only driven Orlovs. The sport is complicated and requires special stadiums, and only three equestrian centres in Russia have adequate options for holding full-scale competitions in sport driving. There are however, many people that would like to enjoy the horses and the troika without the dangers and speed that go with the sport, but with more pleasure and rest, quiet and beautiful, with well-trained horses and accurately restored carriages.

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e have launched Pleasure Driving events with Sherrystops in Russian style – with samovars and shashlyk in the middle of the forest. Each Tournament has its theme and all participants are to prepare their turnouts according to the theme of the tournament. The carriage, horses, harness,

costumes are to be in unified style – we adopted the current rules of AIAT. But of course, traditional Russian driving is not the same without the troika with the Orlov trotters. It is a real heart warming moment when you hear bells and then you see troikas in beautiful harness, decorated with silver elements and all types of bells – their names sounds like music – “Bubentzy, Zvony, Grechushniki, Sharkuntsy”. They were called the “Driver’s orchestra” or in Russian – “Yamskoi orchestra”.

At these tournaments, we perform a parade, where we introduce all the carriages, marathon and a dressage test, sometimes with elements of parcour. They attract more and more participants and guests.

T

he end of February 2014 was marked by a new-age festival in traditional Russian driving. It was hosted by a private farm – eco-tourist complex “Bogdarnya” in Vladimir Oblast. The festival was in the format of old style Russian Fair, which can be seen on oil paintings of Boris Kustodiev. Our guests, including the Governor of Vladimir Oblast (region) had the opportunity to enjoy the story of Vladimir Road (the main and the most ancient road of Russia) – from Moscow to Siberia and Far East. Starring at the parade were of course troikas of Orlov trotters, and the experience of sleigh rides at high speed through the fir forests, surrounded by snow, the beautiful music from the bells and the warm glow of the sunshine is something that is unlike anything else.

W I

e are doing our best to revive our traditions and give new opportunities to Orlov trotters – our favorite and beloved horses. decided to show you not the pictures of professional photographers, but my own – an insider of the events, taken occasionally during our tournaments and at the stables. a Classic Orlov troikas at the Troika festival Vladimirski trakt

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51.

j

s ees The Friesian

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by: Michaela Wake Photos by Jantine Vlaanderen he Friesian sjees (pronounced “shayz” like the French chaise, meaning ‘chair’) is a classically beautiful, ornate, two-wheeled gig that became popular in the 1700’s in The Netherlands. Always pulled by Friesians, they were used extensively in trotting races at village festivals, and were also considered the vehicle of choice for the wealthy gentleman to take his lady on outings.

The two large, fourteen-spoked wheels of a sjees are a minimum of 1.50m/5ft high and the comparatively small, painstakingly carved, wooden body is suspended high above the ground by leather straps, or ‘thorough braces’ which were the 18th century’s equivalent of suspension. Beautiful decorative paintings and carvings adorn the body, usually in the Rococo style that was so popular around the middle of the 18th century. Creamy, pastel colours, asymmetrical designs, curves and gold were all atypical of this style, and the sjees displays virtually all these characteristics.

Traditionally, the sjees seats a lady and gentleman side by side in Friesian costume from the 18th century, which was a period of great prosperity for the Friesian farmers due to the export of cheese and butter to England. Contrary to many other carriage types, the gentleman sits on the left, and he wears a top hat, knickerbockers, tall socks and buckled shoes. In the past, the lady wore a golden casque called an ‘oorijzer’ that was covered by a lace bonnet. The oorijzer started out as a small, functional iron frame in the 1600’s, and then evolved into a complete golden helmet by the late 1800’s, when it was seen as a symbol of wealth and standing. Nowadays however, it is usually just the bonnet worn on the head, then a suitable dress, and white apron over the top. The horse is driven in traditional harness, with a white belt under the breast collar and white reins.

Each sjees is unique; there are no two alike and every individual sjees has its own registration number. Twenty-six measurements are taken and recorded and these are included in the registration book, along with the number. Rumour has it that only seventy or so sjezen (plural) have been registered since the book was started, and they are rarely found outside The Netherlands.

One incredibly lucky Friesian horse owner in New Zealand was privileged enough to have the opportunity to purchase one of these precious carriages, and she then had to have it carefully shipped half way around the world to get it home! Llea-Anne Vlaanderen told me a little more about her sjees and what makes it so special: “My husband was over in Holland for a family event, and during

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53.

his stay he bumped into a friend that he went to school with in the same village of Kollum in Friesland. This particular friend happened to own a business that builds and restores sjezen, and was an absolute artist at his trade.

A few days before meeting up with my husband, he had been given the task of selling one of the sjezen that he had built for a man who was no longer driving, and that is how we came to purchase our very own sjees. Once my husband had seen it, he was already getting the wheels in motion to get it shipped home to New Zealand.

We were very lucky to have the opportunity to purchase a sjees, as making one to order is a very expensive and time consuming task. It takes around six months from start to finish. I am very privileged to be an owner of one of these beautiful pieces of work.

The feel of driving one of these magnificent pieces of craftsmanship is very different to carriage driving on any other carriage or wagon. The chair (which is where the sjees gets its name from) is suspended on leather straps, and when in motion with the horse in front, the sensation is one of a rocking boat. It took me a few drives to be comfortable with the new feeling.

5 4.

Driving a pair in front of the sjees is very different to normal carriage driving too. The two horses have to be fitted with a metal ‘W’ that is attached to the sjees pole, and then harnessed to the horses’ saddles, which can often take the horses a while to get used to. It is also very important to adhere to tradition and use the correct harness when driving a sjees. A white leather belt under the breast plate, and white cotton reins complete the picture.

Traditional Friesian costume is usually only worn in the sjees within The Netherlands. I have only had the privelege of wearing the Friesian ladies costume the once, while driving my sjees. This was bought over to New Zealand for a celebration of Friesland that was held in the North Island and my gelding and I took part in it with the sjees. In closing, the look of a Friesian horse in front of a sjees that was purpose-designed for the breed all those years ago, is beautiful to see, and even more wonderful to drive.”

Due to the rich and colourful history behind the sjees, it has been a much-sought after vehicle to use in displays and demonstrations, throughout The Netherlands and abroad. The Friesian Quadrille (De Fryske Quadrille) was

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formed in 1963, using eight sjezen, each pulled by a pair of Friesian horses, and carrying a pair of drivers dressed in Friesian costume.

Complex choreography is performed to music, and the effect is mesmerising as the horses and vehicles dance and twirl their way around the arena.

Such is the popularity of this display, that the Quadrille team were asked to perform for Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle in 1984, and again for the then Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands in 2005 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her reign. They perform at celebrations and festivals all around The Netherlands, and have also been seen at the annual Stallion Show in Leeuwarden.

Whilst modern technology has long taken the place of the old-style ‘horse and cart’, the sjees is definitely a vehicle that we will continue to see in the boutique harness arena in the future. Its heritage, its beauty and its undeniable elegance ensure its longevity and popularity with Friesian owners around the world. For the lucky few that own or drive one, it must be like having a piece of history in their hands every time they pick up the reins. a

Delivering HIGH QUALITY horse driving gear and rugs for an AFFORDABLE PRICE! We aim to make horse driving accessible to a broader audience while supporting existing drivers in their needs.

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55.

Hidez Animal Compression Suits

T

he HIDEZ graduated compression animal suits are innovative garments, using patented and registered revolutionary technologies to

manufacture.

Hidez is a wholly Australian owned and operated company based in Richmond, NSW, Australia, a well renowned horse region at the foothills of the Blue Mountains After many years of development and testing, this innovative new product was launched on the international scene by Black Caviar on her record breaking trip to London The Hidez Compression suits are designed to facilitate the return of fluid to the bloodstream, minimize inflammation and encourage good blood flow to the muscles. The basic theory behind the suit can be described as applying a controlled external pressure to the major muscle groups The Hidez suits are manufactured using “graduated compression” which means applying a greater amount of pressure at the extremities (the lowest point of the leg) and the pressure reduces off along the limbs and body. This technique force these vital blood supplies out of the lower limbs (where fluids tend to pool) back into circulation This process enhances blood flow and oxygen availability to horse muscles and speeds up the removal of waste products (e.g. lactic acids and carbon dioxide) for vital blood supplies.

Good healthy blood supply allows your horse to recover from injuries faster, help prevent injuries by maintaining muscle temperature and reduce muscle fatigue by flushing out toxins which can result in delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).

Following intense exercise there is always going to be some degree of muscle damage, inflammation, build-up of chemicals (including cytokines, lactic acid etc) and an accumulation

SMOKING JACK 5 6.

of extra-cellular fluid (fluid outside the cells and blood vessels). Whilst this can be considered somewhat normal, it will delay recovery, slow healing and cause muscle “stiffness”, tying up or possibly more serious issues..

Hidez suits resemble a second skin and it takes just a couple of minutes to “zip it on” and can be removed even faster.

The suit is manufactured of a special poly – elastine moisture management fabric developed

by Hidez and manufactured exclusively for Hidez .This fabric keeps the horse dry and comfortable at all times, the material is breathable, it also helps maintain muscle temperature.

Wearing the Hidez compression suit is similar to getting a constant massage. It promotes good blood flow when travelling or standing still for a long periods of time and boosts oxygen availability into the muscles.

Competitors and Trainers are finding the suits have a calming effect on horses which are a handful to transport, nervous, fidgety and tense while waiting at the venues prior to competition . The Hidez suit allows them to save their energy for when it’s needed most. Horses arrive for competition in a much better physiological state and have a better chance of performing to their full potential.

Our advice is to use the suit immediately following a “cool down” period. The suit can be left on for many hours, with some trainers preferring to leave the suit on overnight ( precautions needed to protect suit from damage) to improve recovery.

For horses with known muscle injuries or incidence of muscle soreness/tying up. The best results will be achieved by fitting the Hidez suit after all work The length of time the suit is worn is open to personal preference. If the horse is to be kept stabled (where the potential for ongoing muscle soreness to be an issue), it is recommended the suit to be worn for an extended period, even overnight ( precautions needed to protect suit

STUART TINNEY

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from damage) after intense exercise. If the horse will be allowed into a paddock or yard, the suit may be taken off earlier to reduce risk of damage to the suit, but a period of at least 3 hours should be considered Stuart Tinney Olympic Gold Medallist said.

At the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky 2010 on my horse Vettori rested in a Hidez compression suit after competition and whenever I rode him after being in the suit he felt relaxed with no muscle soreness. I personally think that Hidez suits are a very useful recovery tool and I will use these suits on all my horses. ”I highly recommend them, they work amazingly,” Peter Moody trainer of Black Caviar said he “was very pleased the way Black Caviar travelled to England in her Hidez suit. she lost hardly any weight on her long flight from Australia which helped me train her without any alteration to my original plan.”

Dr. Peter Angus B.V.Sc (Hons) M.A.C.V.Sc Melbourne Equine Veterinary Group said “As the veterinarian for Black Caviar and accompanying her on the flight from Melbourne to the UK I was extremely impressed with the compression suit that was used on her for the trip. Throughout the flight she was very comfortable and her body temperature remained stable all the way. There was no sign of sweating and on removal of the suit at Heathrow I was delighted that her legs had no swelling at all and felt cool and tight.I felt that the compression suit used on Black Caviar enabled her to reach the UK in peak condition and if I was flying more horses overseas I would highly recommend the use of this compression suit to give the horse the best chance of arriving in the best possible physical shape. The suit also appears to aid recovery after exercise.”

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57.

O

Fence Posts

ne of the most sought after features for aspiring horse property owners is that stunning black or white post and rail fencing that not only frames a property, but provides the safest method of containment. It’s a case of good looks meets necessity.

Like any installation though, unless money is no object, it needs to form part of the planning budget and until now, there has been a maintenance component attached, whether it’s rotting, snapping,

warping or painting. An Australian company has now come up with a world beating innovation that began as a solution for vineyards looking to avoid the leaching into the soil and eventual rotting of chemically treated timbers. And, it has used a masterstroke of organically certified recycling to produce a product that can be tailored to individual needs. WoodShield encases natural, untreated timber in recycled plastic that is sourced from agricultural uses such as irrigation piping or dripper tubes.

The disposal of treated pine has become a major issue, with costs now associated with the dumping of it and hefty fines in most states for anyone caught burning it. Treated timbers are also no longer to be used in public spaces such as schools or parks. The fact that the new product has a tested life of 50 plus years also allows for the plastic coating to be recycled again. It is this infinite recycling aspect of a generally non-biodegradeable product that has gained it the honour of being the only organically certified fencing material in Australia and New Zealand.

WoodShield Sales Manager, Ashley Davidson, said extensive testing has been done for equine applications, including at major show jumping clubs for not only fencing, but for jumps that don’t rot when subjected to everything from the harsh Australian sun to the coldest and wettest winters. Jump rails can be left on the ground. “Most people want the looks, but they also want what lasts and is safe for their horses,” Ashley says. The product is also adaptable and can be used for arena fencing or round yards. Horses are notorious for chewing fence posts, but testing on this product has shown that they don’t get a grip on the smooth surface.

The product is also pest-resistant and has a breaking force of 40 to 50 per cent greater than standard treated pine. Post ends have very thick caps ensuring they can be driven into the ground as standard timber posts would be.

But, it is the versatility of the product that can cater for a wide range of budgets. Ashley says that the first step when fencing a horse property in this way is to plan what you want to do in regard to paddock layouts for your individual needs. Then price what suits your budget. The product can carry electrified wire or tape. Some people

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Fence Posts Bulk qty price avail.

Available now - Built to last - Priced to sell Forget green and creo - forget rot, rust, white ants Standard posts, strainers, stays, rails All sizes - 6ft, 7ft, 8ft, 9ft, 10ft, 12ft phone 1300 622 906 10 year warranty - 50+ year life span info@woodshield.com.au Timber totally sealed in plastic

www.woodshield.com.au may do one part of the property – front fencing and driveways are a common starting point – and then add to it as the budget allows. You can buy a few pieces or in bulk. Others install the posts with hot wiring to start with and then add the rails later. Once preferred paddock layouts are planned, they can be done one at a time if that’s the preference. Even suburban fencing and landscaping is catered for and it can be a do-yourself-project for those with fencing knowledge or it can be installed Australia-wide. No special nails or screws are required.

“It comes down to the individual specifying what their particular needs are and that can be catered for whether they’re a large racing stud or someone just starting on a property,” Ashley says.

Further information: www.woodshield.com.au

P

Photonic Light Therapy.

hotonic Light Therapy was developed in Australia by Dr. Brian McLaren, a clinical scientist and veterinarian, also a highly qualified human and equine acupuncturist, now retired who developed the Photonic Light Therapy system when looking for a way to treat horses hindquarters that has now developed into a DIY kit for all horse owners to assess and address any problems their horse might have in conjunction with their primary carer.

This is a complementary rather than alternative treatment system applied after the assessment of your horse. Treatment consists of utilizing a particular frequency of safe, gentle 660 nm red light, not laser to specific points it is easy to use at home without the need for specialized training If the incorrect point is treated then the body will ignore the stimulus without ill effects. The cells in the body will stop responding when healing is complete Photonic Light Therapy is a scientifically advanced form of( Acupuncture without needles) using 660 nm red light rather than needles to stimulate recognized acupuncture points Assessing your horse using the McLaren method Preparing your horse for assessment. First of all, you should work in a quiet environment, in order not to have any distractions to your horse.

Secondly, it is preferable that you have someone holding the horse so the horse can indicate to you, where there problems are, if it is not possible your horse should be tied up loosely so as they can still indicate to you the area that needs addressing.

Thirdly, you should work with your horse in short sleeves or the sleeves rolled up this will enable you to be connected with the horses magnetic field at all times, it is crucial you have your arm on the horse so has he will not kick or bite you. He may well nibble your shirt sleeve whenever you touch a sore spot, but will very rarely bite.

Take notes of all the reactions your horse makes and give a score to each point for future reference. There are 13 assessment points in the McLaren method of assessment. If there is a reaction at point six, it could be a sore shoulder or tooth problem Point nine indicates soreness in the hip the severity of the problem could be gauged by the reaction of your horse in this area. Generally speaking with severe reactions. There are also problems in the sacroiliac.

Addressing your horse’s problems with Photonic Light Therapy.

There are nine standard points to Address on your horse. Plus the specific formula for a particular problem, it only requires a few seconds per point with the Photonic Light Therapy torch for treatment, The formula for Colic the biggest killer of horses is BL 20-BL 21 - CV 12 - ST 25 - GV 1 - ST2 - LI 1 - ST 45, these points can be used for all abdominal pain.

Some other conditions able to be addressed:

The newly developed

Advanced Photonic Light Therapy Torch

reduces the time for application, provides greater physiological response, and has the ability to reduce bleeding and viral infections.

The new advanced torch achieves this with its breakthrough circuit and chip technology which has twice the voltage, improved battery efficiency from 50% to 83% a ten times increase in electrical output (from 0.2W to 2W) and 20 times more photons of 660nm light (an increase of radiometric flux (from 37mW to 700mW) This is compared to existing diode and models batteries not included.

www.wozenphotonictherapy.com Telephone: 0414515400 Email: trevorandlaura@bigpond.com

Stop Bleeding, Increased Blood Circulation, Wound Healing, Stimulates Immune System, Tendons Sprains, Eye Problems, Skin Conditions, Equine Viral Diseases, Fertility and Breeding, Tying Up, Choke, and many more. The Photonic Therapy Kit contains one interactive CD a 45 minute assessment video with all relevant health formulas contained on a USB, For more information go to www.wozenphotonictherapy.com References: Dr Brian McLaren Author: Trevor Wozencroft Level III Photonic Light Therapist Diploma in equine acupuncture and Equine Performance Certificate III in Agriculture, Management, (Horse Breeding)

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59.

Flying CHANGES

A Simple Formula

Part 6 of the 3Cs of Dressage.... calm, confident and connected.

By Barrie Stratton International dressage instructor and trainer

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magine you are enjoying riding your horse in a pleasant canter, when before you know it, your horse has performed an effortless and beautiful flying change. Many of us have experienced or witnessed such a moment. If only all of our intentional flying changes were as uncomplicated, fluid and perfectly executed.

A simple formula The following article outlines how to school and ride flying changes correctly, to enable the development of changes that are calm, confident and connected, and to display fluency, freedom and expression of movement. Three fundamental requirements that lead to high quality changes are: •

•

•

Impulsion: well-engaged hindquarters and a clearly defined three-beat canter with an easily recognisable moment of suspension.

Straightness: the horse remaining on one track during canter transitions and flying changes.

Timing of the rider’s aids: the rider skilfully applying the aids for the lead changes or canter depart at the precise moment of the appropriate footfall.

Flying changes: a definition and preparatory transitions A flying change is simply a transition from canter on one lead to canter on the other lead. Prior to attempting flying changes, a useful exercise is to establish reliable lead changes from canter-trot-canter, as well as simple lead changes, performed from canter-walk-canter.

During these transitions, the paces of canter, trot and walk should be balanced, free-flowing, well defined, and display a clear willingness to calmly go forwards.

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Tasidor

demonstrating how straight a horse should be for canter transitions and flying changes. His spine is parallel to the wall.

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61.

Kitzalano using Spanish Walk as an engageing exercise prior to cantering

Where to practice the transitions Eventually the horse and rider should be able to confidently do these transitions while remaining on one track at almost any location in an arena. Those locations may include: • Anywhere on a long or short side.

• Any part of the normal diagonal or

a short diagonal.

• Performing the transitions on 15-20

metre circles on both reins.

• On the centre line and three

quarter lines.

The following points will help you decide whether or not the paces shown during these practice transition sessions are of good quality: A good quality canter will be recognised by 1.

Each stride consisting of a clear

three-time beat followed by a distinct

moment of suspension.

2.

Regularity and lightness of footfalls.

3.

Balance and an uphill tendency.

4.

A supple poll without stiffness

through the neck or back.

5.

An element of jump emanating from

each stride.

A good quality trot will be recognised by 1.

A two beat pace of alternate

diagonal pairs of legs, separated by a

moment of suspension.

2.

Steps that are regular and elastic.

3.

Well-engaged hindquarters and a

supple, swinging back; which in turn

develops the qualities of impulsion

and cadence.

A good quality walk will be recognised by 1.

A regular four -time beat.

2.

A purposeful marching action which

is calm and not at all tense.

3.

A horse carrying its poll and neck at

a steady height.

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KC using a stretching rising trot to enhance looseness and suppleness prior to cantering

4.

A clear nod of the head with each

step as the length of stride and

horse’s frame is increased beyond collection.

When doing the transition exercises in preparation for flying changes, the importance of schooling your horse with the aim of developing these qualities in the three paces cannot be over emphasised.

There should not be any change in the degree of engagement, any stiffness or loss of balance and self-carriage during these changes of gaits.

These exercises help the horse to become familiar with the aids that are being applied when asking for a change of pace, as well as a particular canter lead, thereby helping your horse to confidently move from one gait to another without loss of the quality of the pace.

The rider’s responsibility Of course, the success of these exercises and execution of quality flying changes ultimately relies upon the rider’s ability to coordinate their aids well, and harmonise with their horse. Regardless of the extent of a horse’s natural talent, the realisation of quality paces, transitions and flying changes will be a reflection of the rider’s skill level.

The golden rule when schooling For this formula to be successful, the rider who is educating the horse needs to be patient and accurate with their aids. The golden rule is never to punish a horse during the schooling of canter departs or flying changes.

Punishment will only result in producing a tense horse that lacks confidence and never produce good changes.

Understanding the three fundamental requirements which lead to good flying changes

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1. Impulsion: This results from the wellengaged hindquarters of a balanced horse.

Each canter stride has a jumping quality and a well-defined moment of suspension. The horse remains calm with a supple poll and back.

As a result of the horse being well-engaged and attentive, it is also responsive to the rider’s requests. This in turn, results in the precise execution of transitions and schooling exercises that subsequently leads to quality flying changes.

2. Straightness: This comes from a horse displaying confidence in its rider and its work.

The horse has been schooled to be supple and responsive, and is calmly and confidently accepting the rider’s contact of hands on the reins, in addition to legs and seat on its sides and back.

Counter canter has also been firmly established before flying changes are introduced. Prior to preparing for simple or flying changes of lead, suppling exercises should have also been employed. These include leg-yield, shoulder-in, renvers, travers and half pass. Walk pirouettes can also be used as a part of the schooling that helps to produce a straight horse.

While all of these exercises are useful to supple and produce a horse that can remain straight during exercises, movements and transitions, we once again come to recognise that the horse’s degree of straightness will, to a large extent, be a reflection of the rider’s skill level. It is ultimately the rider’s responsibility to keep the shoulders of the horse balanced and in alignment with its hips.

3. Timing of the rider’s aids: The rider needs to become familiar with the appropriate moment that they should apply their aids in relation to the horse’s footfall. This applies for canter departs from walk and trot, as well as for flying changes.

KC showing a supple poll and neck, as well as an engaged canter with an uphill tendency, prior to doing a flying change

Canter from walk: The sequence of the walk footfalls is right hind, right fore, left hind and then left fore. Therefore, if the rider wants a right lead canter depart, the appropriate time to apply their aids is when the right fore leg comes to the ground during the walk sequence. The next foot that would have come to the ground in the walk was the left hind. That left hind is also the leg that is the first step of a canter right stride. Therefore, that timing of the aids is ideal to produce the most fluid transition to canter right. By riding with this timing, the rider has harmonised well with the horse so that the transition can be clean, without any shuffled half steps or an unwanted step or two of trot.

A well-engaged horse is of fundamental importance.

KC performing a flying change from counter canter left lead, to her right lead, while remaining straight and soft to the reins.

We need to understand that the success of the procedure described above is dependent on the walk being well-engaged and the horse being completely focused on the rider, so that it responds to the canter aids without hesitation. Of course, this fundamental requirement also applies to the following examples of trot to canter, and flying changes: Canter from trot: The sequence of the trot footfalls consists of diagonal pairs. Right fore together with the left hind for one step, and then left fore and right hind for the next.

Therefore, if the rider wants a right canter depart, the aids are applied when the left fore foot comes to the ground during the trot.

During the pace of trot, the left hind would

have been the next step to come to the ground following the left forefoot touching the ground. The left hind is also the leg that is the first step of the canter right stride. Once again, using this timed approach, the rider remains in harmony with the horse and so a clean, fluid canter transition is possible.

Flying changes: The footfall sequence of canter right is left hind leg, followed by the diagonal pair of right hind/left front, and finally the right front followed by a moment of suspension. The flying change of lead occurs during the moment of suspension. The rider’s aid for the change should be given when the horse’s inside front leg is grounded. That gives the horse the time to respond to the change

AZTEC

showing a good canter. His poll and back are supple and he has well engaged hindquarters.

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of lead request, enabling the lead change to be fluid and the new leading hind leg to initiate the stride of the changed canter lead.

Recognising when to apply the flying change aid.

It is not difficult for a rider to know when the inside front foot comes to the ground.

Recognisable indicators include the movement of the horse’s inside shoulder and in particular, the sound of that particular hoof hitting the ground. It is at the precise moment of that sound, that the rider touches the horse with their new outside leg behind a vertical line drawn through the rider’s hip and shoulder.

The rider’s other leg simultaneously travels to a more forward position. The rider needs to have developed an independent seat, so that during their request for a flying change and the necessary reversal of left and right leg positions, the rider’s seat remains in the saddle and their body does not lean to one side or twist.

being properly educated rather than forced, and remains calm, confident and connected during flying changes. It then becomes a relatively easy matter to advance on to four, three, two, and one time tempi changes.

How should the horse feel to the rider before asking a flying change?

Prior to requesting the flying change, and as with the walk and trot transitions to canter, the horse needs to be calm, well-engaged, straight, and fully focused on the rider. For a successful flying change to take place, the horse needs to be accepting a soft, steady contact on each rein without stiffening or leaning. This should result in the rider feeling an unbroken connection coming from the horse’s engaged hindquarters travelling through a supple back, neck, poll and relaxed jaw, then on to the rider’s hands through the reins.

Where in the arena to ask for the first flying changes.

Through successfully following the previously described preparatory work to familiarise your horse with the aids for a canter depart from walk or trot, the horse can then be asked for a flying change. As is always the case in schooling a horse, we need to adapt to each horse’s individual needs when deciding the most appropriate location in the arena to ask for a flying change. Initially I try to avoid asking from counter canter to true canter on a circle, in a corner or just before a turn. I find it helps reduce the possibility of the change being ‘late behind’, where the horse has changed the front leg sequence before the hinds.

Because of this, I like to ask for the first changes early in a long side, once the horse has been straightened after coming out of the corner. The change that I normally prefer is from true to counter canter, which indicates that the horse truly does understand the application of the rider’s aids. Due to the fact that not all horses respond positively to the same methods, it is through the eyes of an experienced rider or instructor that the most appropriate location for the first few changes is determined. Depending on a horse’s tendency to anticipate, the location of changes may need to be frequently altered, thereby ensuring that the rider remains in control, and not the horse.

Systematic education rather than force.

Using this approach, as well as the correct timing of aids to ask the changes, the horse is

Which lead change to ask for first?

Horses usually find it easier to do flying changes to one particular lead. These horses

PRE 7 yo gelding Tasidor showing good impulsion in counter canter while displaying an uphill tendency and a clear element of jump.

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have previously shown a tendency to a preferred canter lead. So which lead change should we initially ask for in the schooling process?

Here are two scenarios: • The horse prefers to take a left canter lead. Because of this, an instructor may recommend to practice the more difficult left to right changes before progressing to the preferred right to left ones. Otherwise later on, the horse may not want to do the left to right changes and prefer to stay with the easy option of its preferred lead.

• Our second example again has a horse that prefers the left canter lead. The horse did not have a good start with its schooling before you became the owner, and easily loses confidence and show signs of stress. This may well be a reason to commence flying changes onto its preferred lead of canter, thereby instilling confidence in the horse.

From these two examples you can see that in the schooling of flying changes, we need to adapt to each horse’s needs. As previously mentioned, adapting to the horse’s needs is necessary throughout the entire schooling of a horse.

Conclusion Flying changes can become an enigma if the horse’s development of good paces, being supple, calm and well-engaged, has been over shadowed by a rider’s impatience to quickly take their horse to an advanced level.

I hope that by following the formula explained above, you and your horse may be able to harmonise well and both find pleasure in achieving calm, expressive flying changes. a The above text is © Barrie Stratton 2014

www.academyofdressage.com.au

Extended trot used in Tasidor’s schooling can assist the overall engagement and add to the canter quality.

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TEACHERS OF CLASSICAL AND MODERN EQUITATION FOR RIDERS AND HORSES AT ALL LEVELS Private lessons to help you and your horse reach full potential and to enjoy the journey • Ride our schoolmasters to develop feel, timing and coordination.

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By MartĂ­n Contreras

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Photos by Liliana Sanchez

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Liberty

H

ave you ever seen a veteran trail horse whose pasture few people dare to enter? Or a great pony for young riders who will lunge at passers-by from his box? What about a seasoned athlete who performs wonderfully in the arena, yet pulls on his handler and sidesteps all the way when being led from one everyday place to another? This sort of phenomenon intrigues me, because I see it happening quite often around equestrian centres. Humans – and horses — can easily adapt to uncomfortable circumstances after a certain amount of exposure. It aids the survival of the species. When we play with horses today however, we’re not just about mere survival, there is no need to settle for uncomfortable.

I have witnessed people who ride horses frequently, and even people who train horses for a living, accept their horses’ misbehaviours as inevitable “quirks”.

Most often, it’s the type that doesn’t seem to hinder the training routine. “Seem” being the operant word here. When I see such things happen over and over again (especially when they happen to me!), I am reminded of the constant need to go back to basic communication with horses, lest we settle for merely a well-trained horse, rather than one who is also wellbehaved — many seem to think having one means you don’t need the other.

My experience so far has taught me three basic,

practical notions about horses. I call them notions, because I don’t want to restrict them to “principles”, just because I put them in words. Words limit reality as much as they convey it. Additionally, I am not the first one to have these notions. They have often been pointed out; but I feel not anywhere near often enough.

HORSES PICK UP ON EVERYTHING I frequently tell my students that whether we want to or not, whenever we are interacting with a horse, we are training them. We may not be deliberately teaching, but they’re always taking notes. Furthermore, when we are merely in their vicinity, they are picking up on things. We still have no way of knowing how much they pick up on. Despite what some people say, I am no animal communicator, so long ago I decided to assume that horses pick up on everything. That encompasses everything I do, a lot of what I think, and certainly everything I feel when I am with them. This rather simplistic approach has helped me greatly with foals and veterans alike. You may ask: where to start?

I find the best way to get closer to a horse’s perception of what is, and so better understand them, is to basically let your thoughts slip in and out of your mind, and allow the moment to take up your mind. If this sounds a bit esoteric, basically I turn my attention to my surroundings through all my senses. Like this:

Walking manners: The mare walks next to Martin on a loose lead rope. Martin looks forward, but he always aware of the mare.

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the temperature of the air, the light, the feel of the wind, the sounds around us and in the distance, the speed and depth of my breath, the smells; and finally, the different presences around us — sometimes I even look for little bugs on the ground as a way to clear my mind.

Breathing techniques, meditation; all such tools may help us clear our minds so they it can receive the main information: Who is my horse right now? (Yes, that is no typo. I mean “who”).

And this takes us to a second important reality about horses.

HORSES LIVE IN THE HERE AND NOW This I share from my own experience, and several behaviourists and horse trainers back this point up.

Let’s illustrate it with an example. Please bear with this purely speculative translation of a colt’s stream of thought, when first shown to the new shower rack you just built: “I’m not sure I like it here. I want to leave [now]. I don’t know what that [‘thirty more seconds’] means. I know my friends are right over there in the pasture. I’m not with them [now]. I want to be with them [right now]! Oh, carrots! Yum… I like it here! (a few minutes later) Yum, yum—Hey, wait, there’s still some more carrots left! I want to go back and finish them [now]!

Oh, look, my friends! I’m glad I’m here with them.”

The words in brackets are my addition for better

human understanding. From what I have gathered, horses have no concept of time, so the “now” is always implied, and they don’t even process a human construct like “thirty seconds”. I would like you to picture how that mental monologue would translate in the colt’s attitude and actions. Think of how each moment comes with an emotion, a tendency towards an action, and how these may change instantaneously, depending on the circumstance. Always here and now. Thus, I always pay attention to who my horse is right now. Is he the reliable old timer who’s seen it all? Or is he the feisty young colt who may spook at any moment? This keeps our relationship real, in the only place and time that we can experience directly: the here and now. So, by being present in the present (no pun intended) we are in a much better position to communicate with a horse. Communication, of course, includes training, but as I mentioned at the beginning, we’re not merely concerned with training. We’re concerned with behaviour and basic manners - and this requires a particular kind of communication.

HORSES FEEL MUCH MORE THAN THEY THINK When thinking of our relationships with horses, we are used to thinking in terms of training. This may entail a chain of associations of which we are not necessarily aware. We equate the arena to a classroom, the horse to a student, the trainer to a teacher, and the training

Leading Chiara from the pasture to the arena, walking side by side, the mare is relaxed and focused, not distracted by the green grass, and allows Martin enough space so both may walk safely and comfortably.

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program to a syllabus. Training is often organised in a sequential manner, where first you teach the more basic behaviours, and then build on them to increasingly sophisticated ones, expecting the horse to consistently perform the ones you’ve already trained. You always train the stop from the walk before you do from the trot, and so on, right? Or not? Such an overly logical approach may inadvertently limit us.

When we come to a horse with program that is too rigid for what we want to do, we risk losing valuable communication opportunities. When we fail to acknowledge a horse’s state of mind when training and just push on, they might not understand what we are asking of them. In the better cases, they may shut down and lose motivation to learn, and just submit into dull obedience; in the worst cases, they may get tense, meet our requests with resistance, and we end up in a conflict.

Even if we “win”, the relationship will probably not benefit from this. Of course, we all want to get to that point where our horse understands when it is expected to learn and will focus and relax on command. Well, that doesn’t happen on its own. These expectations make for many a frustrated rider and, even worse, a resigned rider who uses increasingly strong aids, resulting in either a conflictive relationship, or a dull horse who “needs” bigger spurs or bits to “behave”.

The brain of a horse is proportionately small, while their hearts are huge. Taking this as a metaphor for their thinking and feeling capacities will greatly help us in all our interactions with horses. In order to enable a horse to learn a particular behaviour, I focus firstly on their state of mind, their pervading emotions. This enables us to anticipate their tendencies, and adapt our training to them. When we do pay attention to our horse’s emotional state, we can foster our bond just as we are training them, ultimately improving their performance and, more importantly, the quality of life for both of us.

Remember the cases I described at the beginning? Well, I believe they may be prevented. How? By keeping a reality in mind that stems from the first notion about horses I mentioned above, and it is this: everything is a learning opportunity. A new bin someone left by the path, the hay truck backing up to the barn, a playful dog, a spooky drain we pass by on our way to the arena.

Everything is a learning opportunity for the horse, it is up to us determine which kind of behaviour we want to foster..

More from Martin in the upcoming issues of Baroque Horse Magazine. To find out more from Martin, please visit his web site - www.horsetrainingatliberty.com a

Photo series captions top to bottom photos.

Putting a halter on a mare who tended to be high strung and unpredictable.

1) Martin offers the halter, then waits for Olivia to do her part.

2) She goes halfway in.

3) Martin lowers the halter a bit more.

4) Olivia goes all the way in.

5) Only then does Martin raise the halter.

6) Finally, he fastens it, once he is sure that Olivia has participated calmly and willingly.

All photos taken at Haras Sotavento, Cota, Colombia 7 0.

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Following dreams with Elizabeth Sobecki riding Hatero de PB

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•Turning•

with Elizabeth Sobecki and Hatero de PB

Photos by Casey Hallett

P

ara equestrian Elizabeth Sobecki had a setback last year when she had to unexpectedly retire her trusty mount Charlie, the horse she had hoped to qualify for the World Equestrian Games (WEG). This was very unfortunate for Lizzie (Elizabeth), who then found herself searching for a new mount. She was kindly offered the ride on PRE stallion Hatero de PB by co-owners Heather Currie (trainer and rider) and Kerrie Massey. Those who read our previous issue would have seen the fantastic interview with Heather Currie about Lizzie and Hatero (Harry) starting out their journey together.

In this article, we follow on two months later to hear how things have been progressing.

BHM: You have been riding Hatero for a little while now, how do you feel your bond is going ?

ES: Hatero and I have formed a great bond in such a short period of time. I keep forgetting that we have only been a partnership since December 2013! He comes running to his gate, neighing at the top of his lungs when he sees me coming with the halter! That in itself is enough to make me smile, he is such a happy little stallion!

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BHM: How are things going? What is the latest report on everything with you two?

BHM: What about Hatero do you find the most endearing ?

ES: Everything has been smooth sailing, and I am having an absolute ball working with Hatero! We returned home from the Boneo Park CDI as the Para-Equestrian Grade III Champions, winning each day of competition.

We then attended the final selection event in February, winning on day one, then a close second on days two and three. The lowest we scored all week was 69.69%!! In the Freestyle we scored 70.58% and one judge even scored us a whopping 75.5%! Could not be happier with how Hatero is going, we are learning more about each other every day.

ES: Hatero is the sweetest little stallion you will possibly ever meet. Without fail, every time I sit in the saddle, he always tries his heart out. He is a little workaholic and just wants to do his very best for you. He is the sort of horse that if you asked him to jump, he would reply, “How high?”. His kind, gentle nature is also very appealing. He is such a character and a very unique horse all round.

BHM: With your MS…what challenges do you face when you ride, and how do you overcome it?

BHM: What’s on the table in the future for you two?

ES: I have dreams of riding Hatero at the 2014 WEG. The teams will be selected in June. Until then, I am focusing on my training both on and off the horse. Right now, we are working on improving and developing our partnership, there are always things on which to improve! I’m extremely excited to see what the future holds for us.

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ES: I battle chronic fatigue, nausea, muscle spasms, pain and weakness on a daily basis. Riding gives me a reason to get out of bed each morning…so I get up, throw on some breeches and go do what I do! I mean sure, I could just sit in bed all day feeling miserable for myself, but where will that get me? Nowhere, that’s for sure. I believe that the power of positive thinking has helped me get to where I am today; anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

BHM: Now that you’ve made the Elite squad, what does that mean for you?

ES: 2014 is the first year that I have been selected for the Australian National Para-Equestrian Elite Squad. This is a major achievement for me. I have always dreamt of the day that I could be a part of the Elite squad. It means more than words could explain, this is a milestone in my life and I am looking forward to seeing where life takes me next!

BHM: What advice would you give to those who are in a position of difficulty, (whether it be physically or mentally) to overcome such challenges?

ES: Never give up. Always remind yourself that where there is a will, there is a way! Set yourself goals, and strive to achieve them. You are in control of how you deal with what life throws at you, challenge yourself and prove to yourself that you can be strong and win the battles.

BHM: How do the WEG selections work ? You have different grades of the para-equestrian levels, do you essentially all work on a scores basis, or is it necessary to have riders from different levels?

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ES: We are required to score at least 60% at a CPEDI3* first up. We are then required to score 68% or higher at least twice throughout the selection period. The team will be made up of at least one Grade 1a, 1b or 2, and the rest of the team will consist of riders from any of the grades.

BHM: To give people an idea, what sort of movements do you ride in your tests?

ES: For Grade 3, it is roughly an Elementary test with Medium movements allowed to be performed in the Freestyle. So we have shoulderin, walk to canter, medium trot/canter, counter canter, 10m circles in trot and 20m circles in canter.

Then, in the Freestyle we are allowed to add halfpass and flying changes if we wish.

BHM: If people want to help and support you, how can they go about it?

ES: I have a fundraising page set up called ‘Turning Dreams Into Reality’ on my website with all of the details (elizabethsobecki.webs.com). I have been so overwhelmed with all of the kind people that have already helped out, it really has made a difference and I’m forever thankful.

I’d like to give a big thank you to Kerrie Massey and Heather Currie for their generous loan of Hatero de PB for my WEG campaign. The hope you have all given me is irreplaceable. A massive thank you to Heather Currie for training both Hatero and myself throughout my WEG campaign.

Heather has put many an hour into us both to ensure we get the best results!

Also thank you to my coach, Ruth Schneeberger.

I will never forget the countless information that you have told me over the years!

Finally, thank you to my parents and my sponsors.

Your help and support is much appreciated!

Kentucky Equine Research, Bonnetts Saddleworld, QJ Riding Wear, Equistyle, Tailors of Distinction, Karina Laudato - Freestyle Music Specialist, GMR Interiors and KP Designs.

BHM: Thank you Lizzie for your time, it’s been lovely to chat with you again. We all wish you the best of success for the future, and we look forward to following your journey in Baroque Horse Magazine. a Elizebeth Sobecki elizabethsobecki.webs.com Heather Currie www.dansondressage.com Kerrie Massey www.pleursy-plains.com

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TOP

MUST HAVES IN YOUR

STABLES OR TACK SHEDS

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S

ome of the more obvious items are the horse shampoos and skin care products, and you can’t go past the fantastic range that Heritage Downs produce.

They also make an exclusive range specifically for itchy horses, which can be a bit of a problem for some of our baroque friends, so this is a definite ‘must have’ in any tack room.

They are all natural, and best of all, they are made by people who understand the needs of our baroque horses!

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nother ‘must have’ grooming product is without a doubt, a tube of ‘Top Tails’ detangler! With our hairy horses, this detangler really does come in handy. This is a personal favourite of mine and I always have a tube with me - you just never know when you might need it.

Surprisingly enough, it is also fantastic on our own hair.

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irst aid kits are another ‘must have’...and one essential kit item is the awesome ‘Alushield’. This is literally a band aid in a can! I first saw this at Equitana last year and though it was a brilliant idea. I have had to deal with a few ‘not so nice’ wounds on my horses, and most are in those wonderful spots that you just can’t bandage well (or at all in some cases)! The whole idea that you can literally spray on a bandage is...well.. awesome! I now have one in my tack room for ‘just in case’, and I think it is very worthy of the ‘must have’ title!

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long the lines of heath, another ‘must have’ is the equine disinfectant ‘VirKon.S’. This is a product by Lienert, who are a leading national Australian manufacturing company that are also involved in distribution and supply of ingredients, supplements and nutritional advice to the Australian livestock and stockfeed industries.

When it comes to equine care, they sure know their stuff. VirKon has a proven efficacy against equine pathogens, and has been totally effective against Hendra Virus.

Without a doubt, that last point alone is

enough to convince many equine enthusiasts of the need to keep this product on hand, especially in Australia.

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n outdoor portable hot water system is high on the list of ‘must haves’ and is virtually essential for those colder days. Trust me when I say that your horses will love you for it! Apart from the comfort aspect, it also brings health benefits too - you don’t want to be washing your horses in cold water on a cold day, because just like us, your horse can to catch a cold and get sick. Suffice to say, if you’re someone that prefers a squeaky clean horse, or spends a lot of time showing, then this is a ‘must have’ for sure. There is also the added bonus that the humans can benefit too, especially when camping! Country Outdoor Supplies has a great Australian made product called ‘Country Comfort that can keep you ‘and your horses warm and healthy during the cooler days’.

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hat tack shed or stable would be complete without good quality halters/headstalls and lead ropes? We all have many cheap ones, but a really good one just lasts the distance.

I don’t know about you, but I have broken far too many cheap ones over the years… they just wear out faster and break. It can be awfully scary if it happens when you’re out and about, and not in a safe area.

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hen the weather turns and it’s all muddy, you can’t go past a good gum boot or wellie! Well, really a good stout pair of paddock boots/ wellies are great all year round, to be out mucking stables or any other duties that we have around our beloved horses. I don’t think there are any reasons why you can’t have fun with these! Rosies Roos do the most fun designer range both short boot, tall boots and even some fun ones for the kids too. Gotta have a good gum boot!

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first saw RAT (Ride on, Articulated, Tipping barrow ) Barrow at Equitana 2014 and just loved them. This is a ‘must have’ for any stable, it has so many wonder uses, from good old manual pooper scooping, moving feed, taking feed or hay out to the horses.. putting used sawdust or shavings from your stable into it.. the list can just go on and on.. it’s like a little helper really!

TOP MUST HAVE

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ack rooms, sheds or stables.. these places are where we like to keep all our treasured horse gear! Here at team BH, we decided to put together a list of our top ten favourite items that everyone must have in their tack room. So in no particular order, here’s what we chose and why:

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country outdoors All About Our Country Comfort Portable LPG Tankless Instant Water Heaters Country Comfort Tankless portable LPG water heaters are the most versatile unit on the market these days. They offer an endless supply of instant hot water at your required temperature without the need for electricity.

The technology behind tankless water heaters is amazingly simple. Water passes through a set of coils that function like a boiler. A computer sensor ignites a burner, which heats the coils. Water heats up within seconds. The system shuts off when the water flow ends.

Features: Heats in excess of 360 litres per hour instantly at required temperature Digital display screen for adjusting temperature and easy diagnostics Newly designed, commercial-grade heat exchanger for optimum durability Sleek, modern design with stainless finish Easy drainage for freezing conditions Fully approved LPG hose and regulator Multi function shower head and hose Portable & Tankless Safety Features (No old fashioned dangerous pilot light) Auto ignition and auto gas shut off (Auto gas off flame protection) Digital display to avoid scalding Compact design at only 440x300x140mm Benefits: Endless supply of hot water without the cost Energy Efficiency: Saving you approximately 60% of your energy bills Ultra low emissions leaving almost no carbon footprint No start-up lag eliminates cold water waste No Electricity needed (2 x D Cell batteries)

rat barrow RAT BARROW. WHAT IS RAT BARROW? Rat Barrow is a newly released Australian invention designed to improve material handling around the home and small farm. R A T stands for Ride on, Articulated, Tipping barrow. Its patent applied design is a world first giving the user a safe and stable ride with incredible manoeuvrability with loads up to 200kgs. Powered by a key start 8.75 professional series Briggs and Stratton engine coupled with a Peerless Hydrostatic transmission provides a reliable low maintenance dive train.

Rat Barrows biggest feature is its simplicity. The key start Briggs and Stratton engine with automatic choke and fixed throttle means a quick start every time even on frosty mornings. The single variable speed pedal for forward and reverse make operation a breeze. A large 7ltr fuel tank reduces the need for regular refuelling, and a transparent fuel gauge window, allows the operator to see fuel levels easily.

Tipping large loads is made easy by the balanced load, free tip design, taking lawn clippings, horse manure and garden pruning’s out to the dump has never been easier. Even heavier loads like fire wood, soil or sand can be transported and tipped out with ease.

The Rat Barrows frame is fully galvanised with UV stabilised polly tub and guards completed with stainless steel fixings, means your Rat Barrow will handle all the elements and last a life time.

A sturdy tow hitch at the rear enables a Rat Barrow trailer to be attached doubling carrying capacity.

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PHP TOP TAILS We discovered PHP Top Tails about 2 years ago. We had heard of it but had never tried it as many people spoke highly of it for competitions. We discovered however that there is far more to this product then just for competitions. This product makes our life easier, yes that’s right, with our big manes and tails it makes daily grooming easy! From the ponies to the baroque’s, regardless of hair type, we have even used this on the dogs and the kids.

Why, because it seems to work like a leave in conditioner making the hair so soft and manageable. Once a week after we have shampooed we apply Top Tails and it allows us to comb out manes and tails every day with no knots and no breakage or pulling for at least a week after. Even with out plaiting every day. I have to say it feels and looks like it actually makes the hair healthier, what were once dry, brittle ends are now soft and don’t snap off! It takes a little longer to apply then the traditional sprays but it is well worth it. It also doesn’t get oily so it doesn’t pick up every speck of dust or shavings. We have also found it great for getting those pesky tangles/rats nests out especially during winter with the neck rugs on, we just apply a small amount straight to the tangle and work it out with our fingers. We were also surprised at how economical it is, it looks like a small tube but a little goes a long way, a tube will generally last us 6 – 12 months depending on how many horses, dogs and children we use it on! The company has recently launched a new clear product.The original is a gold colour that comes from the super fine glitter dust in it which you cant see unless you use too much but is what gives that amazing shine, especially to white manes and tails.

The new clear is fantastic as a maintenance product or if you don’t want the shine aspect.

And the smell, I can’t tell you how good it smells, its sweet like strawberries or similar. I must say that this product seems completely unique to any of the other products that we have ever tried and what makes it even more special is it is 100% Australian Made and Owned, even the tubes are made in Australia, that is something to be very proud of. We recently met the lady at Equitana 2013 who designed Top Tails and found out that she made it when she was working professionally with Andalusians and could not find a product to do what they wanted. So you could say it was specifically designed for the Baroque Horse.

Heritage Downs Heritage Downs are producers of sulphate free, premium grade products containing wonderful natural healing properties that benefit the overall health & wellbeing of animals.

Heritage Downs specialize in grooming products, wound care and in the aid and prevention of skin conditions, without using harsh and dangerous chemicals.

Heritage Downs Sulphate-free Shampoo & Conditioner will leave your animals coats softer and shinier as they do not strip the natural oils from the skin. Regular shampoos and conditioners, which contain SLS (Sodium Lauryl sulphate), can cause skin irritation, hair breakage and dryness, which can lead to scurf and harmful rubbing.

With the added ingredients of nourishing Debitterised Neem Oil and the purest essential oils, Heritage Downs products contain anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties.

Heritage Downs Coat Oil (formally Massage Oil) has been specially formulated to help with hair re-growth and revitalize & nourish the skin & hair follicles with a blend of protein enriched Soya Bean Oil and the purest essential oils with Vitamin E. Heritage Downs’s range of uniquely formulated natural products, will leave your animals happier and healthier all year round.

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Virkon s

Alushield Alushield Aerosol Bandage

Virkon® S

Once you have used Alushield, you will wonder why you wasted so much time on bandages and wraps, especially when they fall off after a few hours!

There are very few disinfectants available that protect your horses better than Virkon S.

The Alushield Aerosol Bandage is the fastest and easiest way to protect wounds without having to physically bandage the site. Alushield spray creates a thin, protective layer over cuts, grazes and abrasions. The unique aerosol formula protects wounds from water, dirt, debris, bacteria and insects, while still allowing the wound site to breathe.You can even apply Alushield over salves and ointments if required.

Flies and dirt create infections that often lead to bigger problems, and bandages can often be difficult if not impossible to apply and even harder to keep on. Alushield Aerosol Bandage is so quick and easy to use and lasts for days.

Look at the results in just 5 days on a horse located in Australia:

During the Australian Equine Influenza outbreak in August 2007, Virkon S was the product of choice to prevent the spread of this disease.

It is also one of the few disinfectants effective in killing the Hendra virus.

Virkon S can be used to disinfect stables, horse yards, wash bays and floats, as well as applied on tack and other gear to prevent disease spreading between stables, showgrounds and racecourses.

Virkon S is an extremely flexible product, and hence suits a variety of applications. Virkon S can be used as a spray for disinfecting floats and yards, as a fine mist to halt the spread of respiratory disease in stables or sponged directly onto horses to kill fungal diseases such as ringworm. It is extremely safe to use and comes as a convenient powder that you simply mix with water when required.

To prevent disease in your stables, it is suggested to adopt a biosecurity program.

The following steps are ideal: Stable Block Cleaning, Disinfection and the Role of Virkon® S

rosie roo

lead ropes Hand chosen and imported from the USA by Ian Leighton Horsemanship, this stiff halter cord in 1/4” holds its shape on the horse and gives a very precise feel. Also great for teaching foals and un- handled horses to accept the halter as it stays open for the nose to go in making working from behind the horses head easier. To compliment the halter, Ian uses a 3 carrier per strand double braid polyester rope.

It is the preferred training rope by some of the world’s most respected horsemen. At 5/8” it provides a weight and feel to the horse unparalleled by any other rope currently on the market in Australia, especially when teamed with the stiff cord training halter. Ian’s personal preference for attaching rope to halter is a plain rope with leather poppers on both ends for tying onto your halter. The knot provides the ideal weight and feel to the horse and you don’t have to worry about a cumbersome clip interfering under the horses chin. This halter and lead rope set is the ultimate training tool for everyday and a must have in every quality tack shed. Your next best friend to accompany the halter and lead is Ian’s Safe Tie Clip. Safe, secure and convenient, and has revolutionised the way we tie and teach our horses to tie. The Safe Tie Clip provides piece 8 2.

Rosie Roo Designer Wellies will keep you looking cool in the fun and stylish patterns as well as keeping your tootsies dry. Put some glam into your rainwear and add colour to your festival.

Rosie Roo Designer Wellies are designed for Tweens, teens and fashion conscious women who like to look glam when they are out in the wet, Look funky at festivals and show a bit of style in the garden, horse paddock or wathing the kids at weekend sport.

Rosie Roo Designer Wellies are not only fashionable , but also comfortable and super practical. The all-rubber gumboots are completely waterproof.

And are cotton lined with inner soles for comfort. of mind by offering added safety as it provides enough resistance for a horse to feel tied and secure, yet should he panic, scramble or start to fall, the clip’s unique design will allow the horse to step back and feel a release of pressure. The horse has the opportunity to calm down while remaining safely tied, helping to prevent injury. Ian also has a comprehensive training DVD available for trouble free tie up training.

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Available in adult sizes 6-10 They offer 4 heights being clogs, ankle, mid calf and keen high.

Four simple steps in a complete hygiene program for stable block cleaning and disinfection: 1) Removal of all equipment and dry cleaning (sweeping/dusting) 2) Clean with an appropriate detergent such as HDD (Heavy Duty Detergent) 3) Disinfection—Apply Virkon® S at the recommended rate of 1% (1ml/100mls) in a knapsack sprayer or pressure washer.

4) Optional Fogging/Aerial Disinfection—Fogging may be an appropriate means to disinfect inaccessible areas. Use Virkon® S at the recommended dilution rate to spray eaves using a fine mist from a pressure washer or mechanical fogger.

“Serio” owned by Ruby Goodsell

Subscribe Today to not miss out

www.baroquehorsemagazine.com

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Need A BREAK ? • T i m e f o r a H o r s e y H o l i d ay ! •

Clarendon Forest Retreat is a scenic, luxury retreat.

Our eight cottages are spread over the 1000 acre property, offering unique and stunning country accommodation in NSW. We are pleased to be pet friendly and offer gorgeous horse back rides through the property or into the neighbouring national state forest.

Bring your horse or ride one of ours!

Clarendon Forest Retreat 02 6554 3162 150 Coates Road Possum Brush NSW www.cfr.com.au

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e s r o h r u o y h it w y a Holid Nestled in a spectacular rural setting on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, Howard’s Hill is the perfect holiday destination for both you and your horse.

The converted barn at Howard’s Hill is ideal for an intimate retreat, a rural reception or as a base to explore the surrounding Mornington Peninsula.

leisurely rustic lunch at the Pig and Whistle. Or simply soak up the tranquillity on the Merricks– Red Hill forest trail.

And you’ll be spoilt for choice with the nearby trails – all safe, of course.

Whether your stay be long or short, bring your horse and enjoy the adventure.

Take a relaxing beach ride at Gunnamatta and enjoy the stunning ocean views. Unwind on a forest trail to Main Ridge, stopping for a

For more information, call 03 5988 6737 or 0417 306 415 or visit howardshill.com.au

Howard’s Hill, 101 Curzon Road, Boneo, VIC 3939 Phone: 03 5988 6737 or 0417 306 415 Website: howardshill.com.au

Jindabyne Equestrian Resort

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Horse

FARRIER TIPS

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Take care of your

Horse’s Shoes and keep your horse healthy

Interview with Farrier César Severino

Article and photos by Cátia Castro

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oof care is vital to keeping your horse healthy. By performing a regular routine of cleaning and general care, you will be able to spot changes much earlier, and recognise when your horse has, or is developing, a problem. Your farrier is an important and essential part of this process, and will make sure your horse can move comfortably and freely, prevent lameness and injuries in the tendons and ligaments.

Trimming a horse is not only an art, but also a science. While the fundamentals of horse shoeing haven’t changed much for hundreds of years, there are improvements being made all the time with new materials and more knowledge of the horses’ biomechanics and anatomy.

A horseshoe is a fabricated product that is normally made of metal, although sometimes made partially or wholly of modern synthetic materials, designed to protect a horse’s hoof from wear. Shoes are attached on the palmar surface of the hooves, and are usually nailed through the insensitive hoof wall that is anatomically akin to the human toenail, though much larger and thicker.

Portugese rider César Severino has also been a farrier for close to twenty years.

Having that combination of experience from both on and under the horse gives César a unique understanding, so he can clearly visualise any movement issues or unneveness through the gaits, as explained to him by the rider.

BHM: When can a horse have its first set of shoes?

CS: Usually best when the level of work is more intense and the hoof is becoming worn or abraded because of this. Generally with Lusitanos, it is around 3 – 3.5 years.

On occasion it is necessary for young foals to be trimmed to prevent bad symmetry and balance of the foot and leg. w w w. bar o q u e hors e m ag azi nE.com

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BHM: How can we tell when the horse needs to have the shoes reset, or new shoes put on?

CS: The trimming and shoeing should ideally be done every six weeks. The amount of hoof growth differs from horse to horse, some grow very fast, some don’t, and others need additional supplements to grow effectively and have more strength. As the hoof grows, the pedal bone angle changes, thus the way the hoof supports the horse will change, and this can cause discomfort when the horse is in work, and potentially trigger injuries in the tendons and ligaments.

BHM: Is there any differences in the horse breeds when it comes to shoeing a horse?

CS: There are some differences to take into account, but it does depend on the type of work the horse is doing., Race horses, for example, have lighter, aluminium shoes called ‘racing plates’, and they are more likely to lose a shoe in the gallop. We have to look for a shoe that the horse feels comfortable in, and every horse has a particular shoe that suits them. It is in the work that we can see the most wellfitted shoe, how the rider feels the horse is going; we have to look for what’s best for the type of work the horse will be doing.

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We have to be very careful when dealing with hooves, a small problem in the foot can affect the entire horse. A shoeing done incorrectly or left too long can be harmful for the horse.

Horseshoes are available in a wide variety of materials and styles, developed for different types of horses and for the work they do. The most common materials are steel and aluminium, but specialised shoes may include the use of rubber, plastic, magnesium, titanium, or copper. Steel tends to be preferred in sports where a strong, long-wearing shoe is needed, such as polo, eventing, show jumping, and western riding events. Aluminium shoes are lighter, making them common in horse racing, where a lighter shoe is desired; and often facilitate certain types of desired movement, and so are favourable in the discipline of dressage. Some horseshoes have “caulkins”, “caulks”, or “calks”: protrusions at the toe or heels of the shoe, or both, to provide additional traction.

BHM: Is there a special way to approach the horse when shoeing?

CS: We must have “horse sense”, easiness around the horse to keep them as calm and relaxed, as possible. A farrier should approach a horse with confidence, and have a basic know-how of horse behaviour. It is not easy (or normal) for a horse to stand on three legs with one flexed up, or out

at an angle. We also need to make sure we are more sensitive to older horses that aren’t as flexible as they were. They might not bend a knee to the degree for us to trim or shoe in the regular way. We have to adjust things to make it easier on the horse.

BHM: What are the “qualities” required to be a good farrier?

CS: Well in my opnion, we have to have that “horse sense”, know-how of our trade, know the anatomy of the horse and understand how the horse works mechanically. For example the “frog” of the foot can be compared to a cushion that when compressed by the horse’s weight, it serves as a pump to move the blood back up to the leg. We have to understand the impact of the weight, shape and thickness of a horseshoe, and to help correct or enhance a horse’s gait with a custom shaped shoe. Keep up with books, seminars, short courses...

BHM: What is the ideal hoof trim?

CS: An ideal hoof trim is one that leaves the foot balanced and level. The bottom of the hoof is parallel to the coronet band. Both heels are the same height. The distance from the centre of the frog to the wall is the same on both sides. The angle of the hoof is in line with the angle of the pastern, and that is the same angle as the shoulder.

Many horses are not like that; a well-trimmed, level foot should sit on a smooth, level shoe. The surface of the shoe and the bottom of the hoof should meet perfectly with no gaps (unless there were some chunks already missing from the hoof wall). The shoe might be handmade on site, or a ready-made “keg” shoe. It doesn’t matter. Being fitted properly to the foot is what matters most. The shoe should be shaped to fit the white line (the perimeter between the sole and the inside edge of the hoof wall), not the outer edge of the hoof wall.

Ideally, the nails should pop out in a fairly straight line and not come out of the wall too low. If done properly, the nails should appear no lower than a half inch above the shoe. Low nails are not good, as they usually take some hoof wall with them if the shoe comes off.

BHM: How do we see if the hoof is healthy?

CS: When the hoof has no soft areas or cracks, it is generally a good indication that the hoof wall is strong enough to tolerate the nails.

Conversely, if the hoof is not sufficiently strong, there are many products around (including resins) that you can put on the hooves to help restore them.

The cleaning routine is very important, and we have to clean the horse’s hoofs before and after the work. If it is a dry hoof, you put a resin, if it is other way around you avoid resins. When the hoof is hard you can put the resins every day, if not you can put two times a week.

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BHM: How do you customise the horseshoe to fit the horse?

CS: I have a standard horseshoe in my trailer with several measures that I can use as a template. Once I have chosen a size, I put it in the oven, then when it is hot, I put it on the hoof to see if it has irregularities. Eventually I can then put the horseshoe on my anvil to custom fit it to the horse’s hoof. Lastly, I trim the hoof to fit and smooth it/ rasp it to shape.

BHM: Does the arena floor where we work the horses have an impact?

CS: Yes, the sand arenas tend to wear out the horseshoe and hooves, and it’s not very good for the joints, the tendons and ligaments. When the floor is hard, the horses are not comfortable, and some horses are more sensitive than others, and they feel all that. The ideal floor is soft and smooth for the horse’s gaits.

Summary points to keep in mind: • How to keep healthy hooves?

Clean the hooves on a daily basis, before and

after working the horse.

Keep the horse’s bedding clean.

Put resins on your horse’s hooves.

Trim and have new horseshoes from six to

eight weeks.

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•

Important concepts Horses that aren’t in work still have to have their hooves trimmed and may still require shoes in some cases.

Many asymmetrical posture and growth issues in foals can be corrected if treated earlier (15 days to a one year old).

Good farrier work and frequency are the best “vaccine” against lameness.

• Why do I need a farrier?

To keep the balance and correct conformation

of the hooves.

To trim the hooves and reduce excessive in

some growth areas.

To help some cases of hoof deformation in

cases of bad conformation.

• How to help your farrier to do a good job?

Good working conditions (good lighting, level

ground, clean stable).

Give relevant information about your horse.

Good communication between trainer/rider/

veterinarian and farrier.

Educate your horse to be calm around the farrier.

Thank you to César Severino (Phone 00351 962907584) and the lusitano horse “Dexeno” (Jgr) for this photoshoot. a

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Horse

Cresty

Necks

What they can mean and how to manage them

By: Luisa Wood Nutrition Advisor Kentucky Equine Research (Australasia) Pty Ltd

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significant reason that the Baroque type of horses can give such an impressive look is the size of their neck, or more commonly described as their ‘crest’. Breeds such as Fresians, Lipizzaners and Spanish Mustangs are generally more prone to developing a cresty neck than finer Thoroughbred types and while this can contribute to their striking appearance, in some cases cresty necks can suggest underlying nutritional disorders that can play havoc with the horse’s health and wellbeing.

Some amount of crest is natural in heavier breeds and may not be a concern if combined with a moderate body condition in other parts of the horse, including barrel and rump. However, when a cresty neck is combined with high overall body condition or the presence of adipose fat in other areas it could mean that the horse is at risk of insulin resistance, or equine metabolic syndrome (EMS).

In an attempt to more accurately diagnose metabolic syndrome based on crest size, researchers assign a cresty neck score (CNS) to describe degree of fat deposition and to monitor changes in neck thickness. A narrow range of scores exists; a score of 0 would

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describe a neck with no crest, and a score of 5 would describe a massive crest that has shifted permanently to one side, called a fallen crest.

Researchers have established a correlation between insulin resistance and horses with cresty neck scores of 3 and above. A working knowledge of CNS is probably not as essential for horse owners as a thorough understanding of body condition score (BSC). However, in managing horses that are prone to metabolic conditions, it can be a useful tool in assessing disease progression.

In both prevention and management of insulin resistance, managing body condition is paramount. Due to a slow metabolism, most heavier horse breeds are classed as ‘good doers’ which generally means that compared to their size, they require little caloric intake to maintain condition. In fact, many of these horses will gain weight rapidly even when it seems they are eating very little food. When they do gain weight, genetics can dictate that some amount of that increase in condition goes onto their neck. Maintaining these horses at an acceptable body condition can be an endless task, and involves careful management of diets and adequate work.

In most cases, heavier Baroque breeds are capable of maintaining weight on a diet consisting of forage and a low calorie balancer pellet or vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure nutrient requirements are met. In horses that have EMS, quick-growing early-season grasses often cause significant problems, including signs of laminitis. For this reason, when pastures are growing rapidly, it is wise to limit turnout through the use of a grazing muzzle, or restriction in a yard or stable. Some EMS horses cannot

PHOTO: NADEEN DAVIS Above: This is a photo of a good ‘normal’ cresty neck with no falling or breaking

PHOTO: NADEEN DAVIS

tolerate unrestricted access to pasture at any time of the year. I Ideally EMS-affected horses are fed only mature hay at 1.5% of their body weight per day. If any concentrate is fed, it should be low in starch and high in fiber, and derive most of its calories from forage sources, and beet pulp, and fat sources such as vegetable oils or stabilised rice bran.

Above: Early stages of falling or breaking PHOTO: NADEEN DAVIS

Although weight loss is required in overweight horses to decrease the risk of EMS and improve overall health, rapid weight loss should be avoided, especially if the horse has a prominent crest. Losing weight too quickly can lead to loss of muscle which can cause the appearance of a ‘broken’ crest, where part of the neck has begun to drop to one side, or a ‘fallen’ crest, where the crest is almost completely folded over. Although not detrimental to the horse’s health, this condition can be unsightly and is undesirable in showing horses.

Restoration of these crests is difficult and can be impossible with some cases, and therefore making dietary changes to reduce calories must be done slowly in overweight horses to avoid this occurring. a

For more information on feeding horses with cresty necks or signs of equine metabolic syndrome, contact KER on advice@ker.com, or on the nutrition consultation number 1800 772 198.

Above: This is a photo of a broken crest, as you can see it is completely fallen/broken and hangs to one side

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Horse

Grooming, Wound Care & Treatments for Skin Conditions – without the chemicals!

Premium Quality Natural Animal Care Products

Cheap Postage Fast Delivery

Proudly Aussie Made & Owned since 2004

LEADER IN LIVESTOCK NUTRITION

Head Office 8 Roseworthy Rd Roseworthy South Australia 5371

VIRKON Proven Efficacy against equine pathogens The ultimate Equine Disinfectant Totally effective against Hendra Virus At 1 In 100 concentration

ALUSHIELD AEROSOL BANDAGE AluShield is a convenient, water-resistant aerosol bandage that creates a protective barrier against external Irritant agents in wound in small and large animals.

TELEPHONE: 1800 649 231 WEBSITE: www.lienerts.com.au 9 4.

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Horse

Intense is a highly digestible supplement that delivers balanced nutrition imperative to the healthy growth, development and performance of equines.

Intence incorporates a palatable blend of ingredients that work in synergy to:

• Help boost and stimulate the immune system

• Help recovery from stresses such as parturition,

weaning, surgery, illness, prolonged antibiotic usage,

travelling and physical exertion

• Contribute to the healthy growth, development

and performance of equines

• Supports digestive efficiency

• Help maintain overall health and vitality Hyfeed Intence contains Nupro® which is a functional protein from yeast containing highly concentrated levels of essential and functional nutrients which are important in the diets of young animals. NuPro® is rich in: Nucleotides, Glutamic acid for palatability, Inositol (a nutrient critical to proper nerve function, optimal cell membrane development, function and good growth), Amino acids and peptides for growth.

Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA and are required by the rapidly growing cells of the gastrointestinal tract. In mammals dietary nucleotide supplementation has been shown to influence immune function and appears to facilitate phagocytosis, increase natural killer cell activity and cytokine production (Carver, 1994).

Intence contains colostrum (also known as pre-milk) that is a highly nutritious food and contains many bioactive substances that have been shown to prevent disease and promote overall good health. The bioactive molecules in colostrum include immunoglobulins (antibodies), immune factors, growth factors and antioxidants. Immunoglobulins provide a defense against viral infection, bacterial infection, allergies, fungus and yeast. Colostrum provides five types of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgD, IgG, IgE and IgM. Colostrum supplementation has been shown to be an effective means by which infections of the

gastrointestinal tract and other areas can be prevented (Borissenko, 2002).

Intence contains added Betaine that has been described as an osmolyte that accumulates in animal cells where it attracts water, protecting them from dehydration and allowing the animal to maintain its water balance in a more energy-efficient way.

Intence contains added Lysine an essential amino acid required for growth and optimum nitrogen balance in tissues. Lysine is the essential amino acid that is most often deficient in conventional equine diets. A mare in early lactation (0-3months) has and increased Lysine requirement over a resting horse of 117% (Kohnke, 1998). Adequate levels of lysine are particularly important for young horses, since they require more protein than adults to support their rapid growth.

According to Ott, Lysine needs to be at least 4.2% of the protein for growing horses for maximum efficiency.

Hyfeed endeavour to utilise the latest nutritional research in the formulation of products so you can rest assured that your horses are only receiving the best.

“As a stud veterinarian I recommend to feed orphan foals Intence as it insures that the foals are provided with adequate lysine levels , the limiting amino acid in horses’ growth. I have moreover found Intence very helpful for immune system support in compromised animals and horses that are recovering from major trauma or surgery.

My Thoroughbred clients find it excellent for yearling preparation and I also use it for my breeding stallions and growing youngsters.”

Susanne Brundell Dipl Ing, BVSc (Hons)

Now available at

Sydney Equestrian Supplies Health Food

for Horses

INTENCE Helps recovery from stresses such as: Illness, Surgery, Weaning & Travelling  Contributes to healthy growth, development & performance  Helps Boost & Stimulate the Immune System  Supports digestive efficiency Intence is a premium pelleted supplement to aid immunity building in horses of all ages 

For all your enquiries please contact our friendly staff Phone 07 4633 2266 | Email office@hyfeed.com.au Find us on Facebook! | www.hyfeed.com.au

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Feed & Supplements for all your Equine Needs

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ONE SIMPLE SOLUTION FOR UNLIMITED APPLICATIONS

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hether it’s for the weekends, ski cabin, camping, horse trainer, stables, dog was or on the road that you require nor water, the Australian designed Country Comfort instant LPG portable water hearted is the solution.

It is manufactured and approved to the most stringent Australian standards with 98% efficiency and a 1 year full warranty.

SUGGESTED APPLICATIONS Cabins, Recreational Vehicles, Camping, Mobile Kitchens, Boats, Around the Pool, Garages, Caravanning, Fishing Trips, Mining, Pet Wash, Car and Bike Wash, Horse floats.

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Pure Iberian Stallion P/SP 003 Chapelhouse CENTAURO. Dk bay/brown black, 16.2hh DOB: 19.01.07 Sire: Irreal (imp Portugal & competed at Grand Prix Dressage) Dam: La Querencia Pamperita.

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WIDE R

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Bates WIDE Dressage

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Bates WIDE (All Purpose)

Finally, a range of WIDE Saddles brought to you by Bates Saddles, the leaders in innovation.

Riders will experience a truly high performance seat that delivers a level of comfort and contact never previously experienced in WIDE Saddles. A deeper seat and ultra narrow waist enable the rider to sit deeper ‘into’ the saddle for a well balanced and central position.

Your horse will demonstrate a marked improvement in it’s comfort and freedom of movement, as they benefit from world leading performance systems, the CAIR® Cushion System and revolutionary EASY-CHANGE® Fit Solution, ensuring your horse’s ongoing comfort and your peace of mind.

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The Bates WIDE Saddle Range features the EASY-CHANGE® Gullet System WIDE offering you the choice of four interchangeable gullet plates (1XW to 4 XW).

Available from Horseland and other leading saddleries. To view the complete range of Bates Saddles visit batessaddles.com

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INNOVATION

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