British Dressage - Issue 3 2021

British

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR BD MEMBERS | £5.00 | ISSUE 3 | 2021

DRESSAGE

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CONTENTS & WELCOME.

DESIGNED AND PRODUCED ON BEHALF OF BRITISH DRESSAGE BY: Fellows Media: www.fellowsmedia.com e: mark@fellowsmedia.com t: 01242 259241 Fellows Media, The Gallery, Manor Farm Southam Lane, Cheltenham GL52 3PB Managing Director: Mark Brown ADVERTISE WITH US: For enquiries, contact Jacob Holmes e: jacob.holmes@fellowsmedia.com t: 01242 259249 SUBSCRIBE NOW: If you aren’t a member and would like to receive the magazine contact 01442 820580, bd@webscribe.co.uk or www.mysubcare.com CONTACT US: British Dressage: www.britishdressage.co.uk Managing Editor: Winnie Murphy e: winnie.murphy@britishdressage.co.uk t: 024 7669 8842 Content Editor: Jane Carley e: janecarley5@gmail.com t: 01926 645981 For the full list of BD Office staff, visit www.britishdressage.co.uk British Dressage, Meriden Business Park, Copse Drive, Meriden, West Midlands CV5 9RG Main switchboard: 024 7669 8830 Fax: 024 7669 0390 Executive: 024 7669 8844 Training & Education: 024 7669 8833 BD Youth/u21 International: 024 7708 7801/024 7669 8834 Membership, Horse Registrations & Results: 024 7669 8832/836 Quest: 024 7669 8908 Sport Operations: 024 7669 8827 Judges: 024 7669 8831 Senior International: 024 7669 8835 Para & International: 024 7708 7803 Fixtures: 024 7708 7804 Championships: 024 7669 8846 BD Shop: 024 7669 8830 – press 1 Finance: 024 7669 8838/841 Marketing: 024 7669 8819 Communications: 024 7669 8842/839 Sponsorship & web ads: 01608 676180 The views expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily those of British Dressage.

Equally the inclusion of advertisements in this magazine does not constitute endorsement of the products and services by British Dressage.

15 – Horses can be sensitive souls, and their skin reflects health and condition as well as the success of their daily care regime.

IN THIS ISSUE...

3 From the editor 5 News 6 Paramatters 9 Profile Jess Dunn on developing the mindset for success

WELCOME

A

s we look forward to returning to clinics, camps and competitions – all the things that make keeping horses so enjoyable, it’s fair to say that the last 12 months have challenged us all somewhat.

Increased awareness of mental health issues is highly positive and can only make us better employers, employees, friends and colleagues. But hopefully we have all developed a little more of what makes us able to withstand challenges and disappointments – our inner resilience.

Sports psychologists have played a vital role in helping athletes – including our leading riders – get to the top and perhaps even more importantly, stay there. Much of this involves teaching them techniques and strategies to make the most of their potential and overcome setbacks.

It’s all too easy to get hung up on a ad centre line or uffed ying changes ut sometimes loo ing outside our discipline for examples from other sporting heroes is worth considering. It’s certainly wor ed for ess unn, who we pro le on p , helping her to overcome injury and not ‘beat herself up’ for past decisions.

For some members who have had little opportunity to train or focus on their dressage over the last year, making that step back in the arena could be daunting as well as exciting. Good preparation can help uild the con dence needed and get horse and rider ready for a ying start.

Fitness may need addressing for both horse and rider, and if arena time has been at a premium, re-establishing the training programme will e helpful. International rider and tness enthusiast Bobby Hayler explains why a Swiss ball, some poles and a change of scene could e of ene t in our Fit to eturn’ feature on p37.

With lighter, longer e enings and the prospect of tures returning, it’s hard not to have a smile on your face. What many of us have been through in recent months should only make us stronger and more determined, which can e used to positi e effect in riding, competing and getting the best out of our horses.

British Here’s to a great season – we deserve it!

DRESSAGE THE OFFIC IAL

Jane Carley, Content Editor, British Dressage

ON THE COVER:

Jess Dunn and Alicante Valley. Photo: Adam Fanthorpe

MAGAZINE

FOR BD M EMBERS

| £5.00 | ISSUE 3 | 2021

15 Skin deep Ailments and allergies and how to avoid them 21 Spring fashion From desk to dressage training arena 30 Going undercover Ins and outs of arenas with a roof 37 Fit to return Are you ready to compete?

43 Ask the expert Fibre and the equine biome 47 Better safe than sorry Legal and insurance advice on sick pay and absence 50 Bodyzone The role of the pelvis 53 BD Action BDHQ updates and members’ benefits 55 Regional Activity Contacts, Judge and Regional Training 58 Dressage Days Annie Hunter Blair on the thrill of being an owner

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NEWS.

BRITISH DRESSAGE

NEWS ACTION ON EHV The FEI recently announced an extension to the cancellation of international competition in Europe following the EHV-1 outbreak on the Continent. British Equestrian is working with the Equine Infectious Diseases Action Group (EIDAG) and the member bodies, including British Dressage, to help mitigate the spread of EHV from Europe as domestic competition resumes.

Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) circulates in the UK constantly. It commonly causes mild fever and respiratory signs and occasionally it leads to neurological signs,

abortion and neonatal illness.

There are an increased number of reports of EHV from a number of European countries suggesting that currently, there is a mildly increased risk of EHV infection in the UK over and above the usual ever-present threat.

In a further step to minimise any spread of EHV, the EIDAG also recommends the implementation of a new self-certification process for riders to declare that their horses are healthy and have not been in contact with any others showing signs of infectious disease.

British Dressage has agreed to implement this process and will

now work with our organisers and venues on a system to make the declaration before the horse arrives at the venue.

Competitors should follow the information on each competition schedule on how to submit their information. This process will be in place from 29 March to 12 April but could stay in place should the risk level dictate.

A NEW LOOK FOR BD Over 20 years on from British Dressage being established in 1998, we’re celebrating the resumption of activity and competition with a new look for the sport.

While retaining traditional blue and red of the Union flag, the modern logo has been designed to encompass the artistry, inclusivity and dynamism in our sport. The new logo will take pride of place on all our digital assets and over time will roll out in print as items are reproduced, for an economic changeover.

REGIONAL RESTRUCTURE Members in England will notice their region has a new name from the end of March. We announced changes in February following a comprehensive review into British Dressage’s regional offering.

England will now be made up of four regions: North & East, North & West, South & West and South & East, while Wales and Scotland remain unchanged. See the website news page from 18 February for the full reveal and which counties feature in each region.

There’s a new look to the role of the Development Officer who will now have a renewed focus on members and venues and less about delivery of activity. BD Board Director Claire Moir gives an video insight into the changes: bit.ly/2NJmQPr

FAREWELL TO CHAGALL Chagall, the Grand Prix partner of FEI 5* Judge Isobel Wessels, has passed away at the age of 18. Isobel and the elegant Contendro x Galatea gelding were a prolific partnership winning Advanced Medium and Inter I titles at Stoneleigh and a Winter Championship Advanced MediumPSG Freestyle double on their journey to Grand Prix.

DIGITAL YOUNG HORSE FORUM The British Dressage Young Horse Forum has gone digital so you can view this year’s event from the comfort of home, when it suits you, for just £20. As in previous years, we have a great programme lined up under the guidance of BD Training Director Paul Hayler, who is joined by FEI 5* Judge Isobel Wessels and some world class combinations to demonstrate each of the age groups.

Paul and Isobel will take you through the training steps for horses from a start point at four years, up the levels to seven-year-olds, as well as providing insight as to what judges are looking for.

They’ll reflect on the Scales of Training and their application in each age group, to help give youngsters a sound base for the more advanced work.

Tickets are on sale now from the website, and will provide access to watch the Young Horse Forum from 2 April onwards, with the content available to watch on demand until 30 June.

BABY JOY FOR NIKKI Congratulations to international rider Nikki Barker and her husband Will on the birth of their daughter Beatrix (Bea). First steps on the ladder to success came early for Bea as Nikki competed at the LeMieux National Grand Prix championships in December three months before giving birth!

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 5

PARA MATTERS.

PARA MATTERS LETTER FROM PARA DIRECTOR JULIE FRIZZELL

The light at the end of the tunnel now shines much brighter thanks to the incredible scientific work to create the COVID vaccine.

Ironically, our COVID journey has brought many wonderful things that we should embrace as we move forward. The Zoom calls, with more than 80 ‘present’ at one point, were a superb initiative and I am grateful to my committee and regional reps for supporting so enthusiastically – a highlight in lockdown.

Plans for the Winter Championships are in the final

stages – what a welcome tonic they promise to be. June’s Gold Festival is on track at Wellington and while we may have lost the Para Home International, there’s still much to enjoy. Regional activity is reigniting, summer qualifying points now reflect the shortened season, the para judge pathways will restart and plans are ready for the para steward pathway roll-out.

We’re also leading the way, globally, with the introduction of a national level freestyle test!

EQUISSAGE PULSE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2021 Great news! The Equissage Pulse Winter Championships for gold, silver and bronze riders have now been rescheduled for 23-25 May at the same venue, Myerscough College in Lancashire. The revised schedule is now available on the website and Kelly and her team look forward to hosting you in May. With a few months lost of the summer season, we’ve reworked the qualifications for the Equissage Pulse Summer Para Championships. For the Bronze and Silver championships, held at Solihull in the West Midlands on 4-5 September, the requirements have been halved. That means Bronze riders will require two points and five for Silver competitors.

The Gold Championships criteria is now one score of 65% or more obtained within the previous 12 months for each grade in either the individual or team test. One qualifying score in the individual test provides eligibility for all three days, including the Gold semi-final, the team test applies to days two and three only.

The Equissage Gold Championships take place on 17 September as part of the LeMieux National Championships at their new home, Somerford Park in Cheshire.

‘BACKING THE BEST’ SUPPORT FOR TALENTED THREESOME Congratulations to Alicia Griffiths, Gabby Blake and Kyrby Brown who have been announced as grant recipients in Sport Aid’s Backing the Best initiative, supported by the National Lottery.

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Thanks to our community-wide ‘one team’ approach, our sport is in the strongest position it’s ever been and now is time to hand the baton to the next para dressage director. Do encourage any suitors to come forward for nomination!

I’m proud of the selfless

individuals I work alongside who tirelessly give to para dressage – you are the true heart of the sport and I cannot wait to see everyone enjoying what we do, in person, through 2021.

EQUINE UPDATE Annie Hunter Blair’s prolific British-bred Dior UKH, or Pimms, will now move to Grade I rider, Diane Green.

With Grade III rider, Erin Orford, Pimms reached the pinnacle of the sport in representing her country at two championships, collecting team gold and silver as well as an individual bronze along the way. Erin and Pimms were together for six years, Erin commented; “Pimms has been a massive part of my career and my life for the last six years and behind the championships, sashes and medals, she is also responsible for so many memories and experiences along the way.

I felt like it was the right time for her to take the pressure off a little bit and enjoy a new adventure. She owes me nothing and I owe her everything and I’ll be forever grateful to Annie and Nicky for, not just giving me the opportunity, but for being such fantastic members of the team over the years. A massive thank you must go to everyone who has been part of my team along the way who have supported me in helping me to achieve my dreams with this special horse.”

2019 European team silver medallist Sky O’Hara has been retired by owner Glesni Owen and rider, Grade I Durward-Akhurst, aged 22. Five-time national champion Sky came to Mari on a month-long loan which then turned into a nine-year adventure. Mari paid tribute to her ‘golden boy’: “Sky has made my dreams come true and has helped me through some very difficult times. He’s one in a million and our bond is incredible. He’s such a superstar and, although sad that he is retiring, he has given me so much and owes me nothing. He can have a wonderful retirement which he deserves!

“I am so grateful to Glesni Owen for giving me the ride on Sky nine years ago. I am very pleased to say that he will be retiring with us. Seeing his face every day, brings a smile to my face.

“I cannot thank everyone enough that has supported me and Sky on our journey, what a journey it has been and ultimately ending on the podium!”

Mari is now looking for her next dancing partner so if you have a horse with an amazing walk and superb temperament, get in touch.

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PROFILE.

SUCCESS IN focus FOCUSING ON CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IS WHAT DRESSAGE IS ALL ABOUT; BUT IT’S EASILY SAID, AND OFTEN MUCH MORE DIFFICULT IN PRACTICE. FOR JESS DUNN THAT APPROACH, WHETHER IN HER RIDING, FITNESS, HORSES, TRAINING OR MINDSET, IS PAYING DIVIDENDS. HELEN PENNY REPORTS.

W

hile the foundation of being successful in dressage is being a great rider, there are a plethora of other essential skills, aptitudes and attitudes. For Lancashire-based dressage rider Jess Dunn, success means being the best version of herself, and a continuous focus on improvement in everything she does.

It’s an approach that has seen her achieve international wins, and compete in her rst Grand Prix tests last year, but it has involved determination and overcoming obstacles.

Jess was born into a horsey family, with her mum working with hunt horses and racehorses. Initially, eventing was Jess’s passion, but when her pony was injured, they bought an Irish horse to bring on, turning to dressage as it couldn’t jump.

After selling it on, 14-year-old Jess and her parents went looking for another and ended up with a ‘skinny, quirky’ horse. It was unn o A named y her dad her rst dressage horse and one which, four years later, took her to four internationals. But it wasn’t all easy, with Jess recalling that it took seven hours to get a ridle on the mare at rst.

LEFT: JESS DUNN, PICTURED WITH GROOM AMBER FLYNN, OF WHOM SHE SAYS ‘I WOULDN’T BE WITHOUT HER’, HAS NEEDED DETERMINATION AND FOCUS TO BOUNCE BACK FROM SETBACKS .

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PROFILE.

ABOVE: JESS HAS FOUND GROUNDWORK SESSIONS – WITH HELP FROM DIANE THURMAN-BAKER – TO BE ‘GAME CHANGING’. LEFT: WHS MILLENNIUM, BY HOKITA – ONE OF AN EXCITING GROUP OF YOUNGSTERS AT WHITE HILL STUD.

Stabling at Stephen Clarke’s yard in Cheshire was a key factor in her early success.

Then being given the ride on Stephen’s former GP horse Espionage – an “unbelievable schoolmaster” – increased her focus.

“Stephen put a lot of work into me and is now a really good mentor and friend. That someone of that calibre believed in me at that stage was amazing.”

But it also meant that she never wanted to let him down, which is why, at a time when she was contemplating giving up riding, she moved to Germany.

“After I’d had a bad accident on a horse, Stephen called me one day and asked what my 10 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

plans were. When I said I wasn’t sure I wanted to ride anymore he told me that was ‘ridiculous’.”

Within hours, he called her back and said that he had a good friend who would take her as an apprentice, but that she needed to call him in the next 10 minutes or the job would no longer be open.

“I was more frightened about letting him down than making the call, so I just rang.”

That good friend turned out to be Wolfram Wittig, the renowned breeder and trainer, whose remote stud was the home of stallion Breitling.

Jess admits that while she had always thought she worked hard before, this was ‘on another scale’, riding up to 15 horses from three year-olds to GP schoolmasters and ha ing fi e or si lessons a day. nd as someone who didn’t speak the language, she was on a steep learning curve as she was also trained by Frau Wittig, who taught only in German. “My German is rusty now, but I can

understand and teach in it – it is very handy for buying horses.”

Her biggest learning from that time was resilience. “Looking back, I was so underconfident that felt was being personally attacked at times during training and I didn’t take enough on board. I was too young to realise – I regret not taking more from it.”

Eventually, feeling ‘lonely, poor and tired’ meant Jess decided to return to the UK. It’s a decision she thinks she d handle differently now. “I don’t regret where I am now, but I would have talked to Herr Wittig about how I felt before making the decision. I had great opportunities and they are still very supportive.”

Returning home, she set up a yard with a friend from BYRDS days to produce and sell dressage horses. Fyona, a mare bought in her fi rst year back in the , really propelled her a liated career, with wins at the ational Championships.

Outgrowing the yard saw Jess move to Crow Wood Equestrian near Burnley where

PROFILE.

she rst set eyes on her top horse, Alicante alley hello , a W y aricello. e was competing at le el at the time, and his owner ennifer Whitta er as ed if she’d li e to sit on him.

I lo ed him. he partnership was the most successful small tour horse in , competing at ompi gne I and winning two classes at oth aumur and ic stead Is, and last year they did their rst rand ri tests. hello is an inward worrier and can feel ru ish in the warm up, ut once his nose is in the arena he is rilliant. e lo es to show off in the freestyle to our reatest howman music. e is now, and I want to en oy this. At the moment he’s fresh and lo es it my ultimate aim with him would e ma ing a ations up team. hello’s owner ennifer Whitta er set up White ill tud where ess, who is freelance, is now ased. he also rides ennifer’s up and coming dressage horses o ita, a talented nine year old W stallion y ream oy who will mo e up to small tour this summer, and ord enny, a four year old ought unseen during loc down who is the most eautiful horse I’ e e er seen’, says ess. A string of White ill tud home red youngsters also eeps her usy. ompleting her current line up is Woodcroft Ferdinand, owned y eorgie

ewton, who is currently competing at small tour le el and did his rst ri t eorges at eysoe last autumn. Ferdi’s spoo s ecame a iral sensation this year on i o , ut as with anything on social media, opinion was di ided, and trolls were out in force. I used to e ery concerned a out what people thought a out me, ut I now I ne er treat my horses unfairly. eing rational a out things,

open when they don’t go right and realising there is always a solution are crucial to ess.

I’ e also ecome aware of my o er thin ing, and how to stop myself doing that. er sessions with sports psychologist oira afferty are something ess still draws on regularly, and two oo s in particular ha e also helped with her mindset onny Wil inson’s oo ac ling ife’ and a oo y his psychologist, a e Alred, called he ressure rinciple’. he admits to eing onny Wil inson’s iggest fan and lo es rug y it is his a ility to focus and to separate himself from a situation, then react in the right way which ess most admires, alongside his total dedication to his sport.

LEFT: ALICANTE VALLEY (CHELLO), DESCRIBED AS AN ‘INWARD WORRIER’.

BELOW: JESS AND LORD LENNY IN THE SUMPTUOUS YARD.

BELOW: JESS WITH WHITE HILL STUD’S OWNER JENNIFER WHITTAKER.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 11

PROFILE.

Like many sportspeople, Jess ta es her own tness seriously, but several riding accidents have left their mark, including a broken shoulder and torn ligament. It’s an injury that has plagued her, and last year an MRI showed another tear. ut I couldn’t afford the four to e months off that surgery would re uire, so found a really good physio who does reformer pilates. It has really helped – he has reformed me from the feet up.

“The pain in my shoulder has mostly gone, and I train with him every week. I’ve seen loads of physios before, but this has been a game changer.”

The horses at White Hill Stud have had a game changing’ addition to their tness routine too, and now have weekly in-hand training sessions since Diane Thurman-Baker has been visiting to run clinics.

“It’s good for their backs, encourages elasticity and muscle development and really

helps lift and improve their shoulders. It is so much easier for training young horses too as they’ve already learned shoulder-in, leg yield and travers before we get on board.”

Isobel Wessels is another regular visitor, running test riding clinics which have helped hugely, while Christoph Hess visited pre-Covid. Jess also takes a lorry-load of horses on fortnightly visits to Richard Davison, whom she credits with making her ‘less emotional’ about training.

“I can get myself worried about doing things wrong, but he makes me think about things more logically.”

Jess also teaches and has a set of very loyal clients, even though she admits: “I don’t like being cold or standing up! I do love seeing the progress though, especially the horses and ponies that are not necessarily built for dressage.”

And while she has enjoyed the training and less hectic pace that has afforded,

she has missed competing. “I love training, but I ride to compete so it’s important we can get back to it. But I also know this is a livelihood for people, and many have struggled. I’d have found it very di cult if I hadn’t sold my house before it all started – I am fortunate.”

That ability to see a positive in every situation, to maintain an objective view, and to be focused on being the best version of herself will surely stand Jess in good stead as she strives to become like the two people she cites as her career inspiration – Isabell Werth and Herr Wittig, “the ultimate horseman”.

ABOVE: A BOOK BY JESS’S IDOL, RUGBY STAR JONNY WILKINSON, HAS HELPED HER WITH HER MINDSET. ABOVE RIGHT: JESS’S NEXT GOAL IS MAKING A NATIONS CUP TEAM WITH CHELLO. BELOW: JESS WITH LORD LENNY, ALICANTE VALLEY, WOODCROFT FERDINAND AND WHS MILLENNIUM. LOTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO.

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SKINCARE.

SKIN SENSE UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUES THAT CAN AFFECT THE HORSE’S SKIN AND HOW TO PREVENT OR TREAT THEM CAN DO A LOT TO KEEP HIM COMFORTABLE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, REPORTS BARBARA YOUNG.

A

s the largest organ in the horse’s body, general health and condition is re ected in the uality of his s in, displaying a glossy coat which shines naturally.

A dull coat is indicati e of internal pro lems with s in infections and infestations often

a sign that there is something amiss, e plains etplan uine et il iley. For e ample, ushings disease can cause many pro lems from laminitis to muscle loss it often affects the s in rst, so a dull, e cessi ely hairy coat is the indicator that pro lems may e afoot. il points out that many s in conditions are affected y

seasons. ice and mites are much more common in the winter when coats are longer, mud fe er and rainscald are due to wet conditions, and sun urn can cause concern in the summer, as can allergies to pollen or y ites. here is also a particular auto immune condition, leu ocytoclastic asculitis, which is related to sunlight and often affects white soc ed horses. in s in is suscepti le to conditions related to light photosensitisation, sun urn, leucocytoclastic cannon and pastern asculitis , while dar s in is not affected at all y these conditions.

TREATMENTS First signs that a horse has suffered an urticarial’ reaction are raised swellings, circular or horseshoe shaped, distri uted o er the nec and ody, which tend not to be itchy and

according to il, horses will usually respond uic ly to an anti in ammatory in ection. ets can also ad ise on anti in ammatory treatments in ecta le and topical which can e helpful at treating or pre enting the initial cause of the complaint.

For e ample, with mud fe er, anti iotics will e necessary ut minimise the time your horse stands around in wet paddoc s, wash off mud and towel dry the limbs when coming in and apply a protecti e waterproof arrier to the s in efore turnout.

In the case of y ite allergies, an effecti e repellent and purchase of a good uality y rug can minimise the need to treat.

When choosing y sheets for those which are sensiti e s inned or prone to allergies, you get what you pay for so it’s worth that e tra in estment.

ABOVE: THE HORSE’S SKIN IS THE LARGEST ORGAN IN HIS BODY, REFLECTING HEALTH AND CONDITION. LEFT: TO HELP PREVENT AND TREAT MUD FEVER WASH OFF LIMBS AND TOWEL DRY WHEN COMING IN.

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SKINCARE.

CLEAN SPORT AWARENESS When it comes to staying safe in competition, NAF head nutritionist Kate Hore says it’s important that owners are aware of pitfalls when choosing a skin product.

“There is often an assumption that if a product has been designed for horses then it must be safe and suitable, but sadly that isn’t the case. For feed, including supplements, we have the BETA NOPS scheme, but unfortunately there isn’t a similar scheme for applications.

“We would advise to only use applications from companies which are aware of the risks, and carry out suitable risk assessments on their products, as we do at NAF. “Also, just because a product you’ve used hasn’t previously caused an issue, it doesn’t mean it won’t in the future. For example, if you use nappy rash cream for cuts and grazes, or shampoo from the supermarket, it’s time to think again as there is every chance that these may contain unsuitable ingredients.

“Aloe vera naturally contains salicylic acid, which is the basis of aspirin and therefore a Controlled Medication on the FEI list. The inclusion level is small, but as sensitivity in testing is increasing all the time, we would not take the risk, and have stopped using aloe vera in all NAF products.”

Kate points out that it’s not only top riders who may get tested at competitions.

“Anyone competing at any level of affiliated competition can get tested without prior warning that a testing van is going to be in attendance. It’s important to ensure that all products – whether applied or dietary – are suitable for competition horses.

“Home-made products can also be cause issues. Owners regularly contact us after using a home-made product on their horse – particularly fly sprays – which have burnt or reacted with their horse’s skin. Ingredients such as essential oils are incredibly powerful, and while they can be useful, we would not advise amateur mixes as they can have really nasty results.

“Our advice would always be to stick with commercial products designed for competition horses, by a company that knows the risks associated in Clean Sport.”

BELOW: IT’S AS IMPORTANT TO CHECK THAT INGREDIENTS IN TOPICAL APPLICATIONS ARE SAFE AND SUITABLE FOR COMPETITION HORSES AS IT IS FOR FEED.

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ABOVE: CHECK REGULARLY THAT YOUR HORSE IS NOT TOO WARM, AS THIS CAN CAUSE SKIN PROBLEMS.

RUGGING UP Over-rugging throughout the seasons remains a subject of debate among owners, however Gil explains “it’s easier for a horse to warm themselves up than it is to cool themselves down”.

“Factors to consider include your horse is clipped and how much growth it has, as well as how much warmth the stable provides, the age of the horse and his condition. Generally, older, leaner horses will require more layers than younger fuller ones, while those which are clipped will require more rugging than those with full coats.

“Check weather forecasts and rug accordingly. Regularly put your hand under the rug and learn how to gauge your horse’s temperature – ideally, he should feel lukewarm, although owners who feel cold themselves tend to rug their horses up more!”

UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES Reactions to allergens are linked to the individual’s immune system, however there is evidence of some genetic predisposition. perts say y ites are y far the most common trigger for allergies, with ponies especially developing an allergy to the saliva of Culicoides, the biting midge, while other frequent causes include pollens such as oil seed rape, or bedding.

“Sweet itch is the most easily recognised and managed allergy, however delayed hypersensitivity means that it takes a few days to show, so the damage is done by the time the horse is seen rubbing and an itch-scratch-itch cycle is set up.”

If your horse develops an unexplained skin condition or allergic reaction, Gil recommends consulting your vet.

SKINCARE.

“The excellent camera functions on our mobile phones means you can send great pictures of what you’re dealing with. Your vet can then decide if a isit would e ene cial or give you advice over the phone,

although if the skin condition is painful, it’s always better for the vet to see your horse.”

Infestations from parasites such as lice and mites can also cause pain and discomfort.

COMFORT FOR FELIX Having successfully managed a number of horses which had problematic skin conditions over the years, Lara believes a combination of a nutritious balanced diet, good stable management and the right rugs works well.

“I’ve had quite a few horses of different breeds which have struggled with itchy skin or rubbing when it’s change of coat time, including a 23-year-old Welsh pony, Cadans M, my KWPN approved stallion, as well as 12-year-old advanced warmblood Felix (Jazzed Up).

“Felix was really itchy and would rub himself raw on his neck and bottom, but luckily I came across two companies which have both helped.

“Through The Itchy Horse Company I bought a BOETT rug, which stopped him making himself too sore and also tried their Bio-Plus capsules which made all the difference.

I also found a brilliant range of grooming products from Goodbye Flys, which have been the icing on the cake in terms of keeping coats moist, clean and non-itchy, while also helping to build a layer of

“Lice cause tremendous itching so that the horse or pony will self traumatise in an effort to get some relief,” explains Gil. “This is most common in the winter when coats are longer in young stock (less than two years old) and old, immune-compromised patients. Fortunately, once identi ed they are reasona ly straightforward to treat with the appropriate wash or powder, thus providing much needed relief.

“There are various mites that can infest horses, but the most common by far, especially in winter, is the feather mite, so called because it lives in the longer hair at the base of the limbs. These cause irritation for the horse as the mites crawl around on the surface of the skin, but fortunately this is straightforward to treat with an anti-parasitic wash.”

RUG RUBS Spring often sees rug rubs developing as the horse starts to change his coat, so it’s important to be prepared.

“If your rug is dirty and the coat is wet and muddy underneath, it is more likely to chafe, especially if the rug doesn’t t, says il. a e sure rugs t, swap wet rugs, wash them regularly and keep your horse’s coat clean, especially where there are pressure points.

Both rain scald and mud fever are painful conditions caused by the same bacteria and more usually a problem in the winter when the wet weather undermines the protective oily layer that covers the entire skin and allows the bacteria to gain access to the tissues beneath.

However, the right treatment can turn things around quickly.”

LEFT INSET: THINK CAREFULLY ABOUT PRODUCTS FOR WASHING DOWN AS INGREDIENTS NOT INTENDED FOR HORSES CAN LEAD TO ITCHINESS.

defence against wanting to itch or scratch.”

Lara highlights the importance of a well-balanced feeding regime and says combined with good stable management incorporating tried and tested approved products is key.

“Stick to the same products; don’t try cheaper or cheat methods such as washing up liquid or human shampoo as this can cause flareups and dries the skin causing them to itch.

“For horses with itchy skin, it’s important that they are washed off thoroughly allowed to dry properly in a cooler before changing into stable rugs. It’s also important not to over-rug an itchy horse as their temperature may be slightly higher than normal, and you don’t want them sweating under their rugs.”

ABOVE: LARA EDWARDS’ ADVANCED HORSE FELIX SUFFERS FROM ITCHY SKIN, BUT CHANGING GROOMING PRODUCTS AND USING A SPECIALIST RUG KEEPS HIM COMFORTABLE

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 17

PRODUCT WATCH.

PRODUCT

PERFECT PLAITS HOLDING WAX

WATCH

SKIN AND HAIR HELP TRM EQUIZAL NATURAL BARRIER CREAM is a natural protective barrier cream that soothes and moisturises. Enriched with beeswax, tea tree oil, zinc oxide and lanolin, it is particularly suitable for external application to horses with mud rash or rain scald in wet conditions, horses working on abrasive or sandy surface, horses with cuts or grazes and many other skin conditions. For routine use, apply liberally to affected areas twice daily.

RRP FROM £20.59 | farmstable.com

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by Supreme Products smooths and straightens flyaway hairs and will keep hair and plaits securely in place. It contains moisturising oils to condition and nourish for a sleek and shiny finish, as well as promoting hair growth and maintaining healthy skin and hair.

RRP £10.30 | battles.co.uk

LOVE THE SKIN HE'S IN NATURAL SKIN WASH is a gentle unique blend of herbal ingredients designed to help support damaged or challenged skin. This versatile product provides optimum skin care and can be used either as a hot towel wash following clipping or for a deep clean, as a cold wash for a refreshing cleanse or applied directly to specific areas in concentrated form.

Every 1L bottle comes with a FREE NAF deep cleansing towel.

RRP £21.99 FOR 1L OR £36.99 FOR 2L | naf-equine.eu/uk

MAGIC RELAX LAVENDER WASH is ideal following exercise to help cool, calm and aid rapid recovery. A time-saving product that doesn’t need rinsing off after application – there are no hidden detergents or soap within the product – leaving your horse calm and smelling amazing. Part of the sensational Magic range from Hy Equestrian – everything you need to get your horse ring-ready.

RRP £9.99 | hy-equestrian.com

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 19

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Products pictured: Hy Equestrian Exquisite Stirrup & Bit Collection Polo, Gilet, Breeches, Saddle Pad and Fly Veil

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SPRING FASHION.

WFH TO working YOUR HORSE ABOVE: COMFORT AND STYLE SHARE TOP SLOT IN RIDERS’ LIST OF PRIORITIES FOR CASUAL RIDING WEAR SO THE FOUR-WAY STRETCH AND CHOICE OF COLOURS AVAILABLE FOR THESE EQUILINE BREECHES SHOULD FIT THE BILL.

IF LOCKDOWN HAS TAUGHT US ANYTHING, IT’S THAT COMFY CLOTHES THAT CAN BE WORN BOTH ON THE YARD AND AT OUR DESK ARE MORE ESSENTIAL THAN EVER. SO, WHAT STYLES AND FABRICS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO THIS SEASON?

F

STEPHANIE BATEMAN FINDS OUT.

rom the daily school run to picking up groceries from the supermarket, equestrians ha e to fit in e eryday life around their horses, and making numerous changes of clothing just isn’t practical.

Luckily, equestrian fashion is stylish and comfortable enough that we can happily wear our riding clothes throughout the day, especially if we are working from home.

One item of clothing that has made this possible is the riding legging or tights.

“Breech fabric is moving from cotton-based to what the manufacturers call ‘sport’ fabric which is very lightweight and stretchy yet smartly structured,” explains Julia Hornig from retailer Classic Dressage. “Because of its qualities, there’s barely any colour fading and as the fabric stretches, it doesn’t go ‘see-through’ so shows fewer imperfections. This fabric can be pricier, but you get what you pay for – a cheap legging shows up all your imperfections and will wear out quickly.”

LEFT: DENIM IS VERY POPULAR, SUGGESTS LEMIEUX – YOU CAN RIDE AND THEN

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FASHION With climate change an ongoing challenge, riders are paying more attention to where their clothing comes from and how sustainable and environmentally friendly it is.

“We’ve definitely noticed a shift in priorities and more of a focus on environmentally friendly fashion; which is very important in this climate,” says LeMieux’s Zoe Bradley. “This is why we made the Luxe T-Shirt – an eco-friendly and comfortable T-Shirt that is made from 88% recycled plastic bottles. Finding these innovative materials is important for creating sustainable fashion that is both stylish and wearable.”

Versatile clothing that you can wear in a number of different situations also plays a big part in reducing waste.

“Our new denim breeches have sold incredibly well and we think that this type of versatile fashion that you can both ride in or go shopping in is really fun and exciting,” adds Zoe. “We always try to make our products practical too, and think about everything from pockets and durability, to protection from the elements.”

GO SHOPPING WITHOUT GETTING CHANGED!

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 21

SPRING FASHION.

RIDING TIGHTS ALLOW YOU TO DO EVERYTHING, WHETHER WORKING FROM HOME AND THEN QUICKLY POPPING OUT FOR A HACK IN YOUR LUNCH BREAK

ABOVE: LATEST FABRICS FROM TOGGI OFFER WATER-RESISTANT TECHNOLOGY AND BREATHABILITY FOR PRACTICALITY AND COMFORT.

Mel Newman, head of marketing at Finest Brands agrees.

“What more could you want than a pair of riding tights that come in beautiful colours and feel like a second skin but are also functional and easily matched with base layers and tops?” she says. “Riding tights allow you to do everything, whether working from home and then quickly popping out for a hack in your lunch break, or walking the dog followed by doing the school run or popping to the shops.”

Mel also believes that Covid, and the fact that many riders are spending more time at home instead of the o ce, has seen a shift in rider re uirements.

“Riders want comfort and practicality, not having to get changed all the time,” says Mel. “Our Outdoor Splash legwear and Sport Flexi legwear feature water resistant technology and breathability. Our coats are waterproof with taped seams.”

Toggi’s Outdoor collection features a pair of black ‘jeans’ that can be worn to work or to the pub as they are cut like a regular slim fit ean, high waisted and ery chic, but also don’t feature an inner seam so you can walk, hike or even ride in them no problem.

HEADS UP Safety is number one when it comes to our heads and thankfully, with modern technology, we can ride in style and comfort knowing we are well protected.

“Recent innovations include the addition of MIPS (an additional liner that offers extra protection to the brain), an airbrush finish and bespoke options,” explains Farrell Guy, brand manager at Charles Owen. “At the beginning of 2021, in celebration of our 110th anniversary Charles Owen released two new helmets; Halo and Luna. A stylish competition helmet, Halo features a 360deg hidden ventilation system and conforms to three top international safety standards (including PAS015) combined with add-on MIPS technology.

“Luna has been designed for everyday riding and features the same 360deg ventilation system and three international safety standards (including PAS015). Comfort and durability have been enhanced in both Halo and Luna by the addition of a removable, washable padded headband.

“The Matte or High Gloss Airbrushed finish of both helmets provide superb durability for both every day and competition riding. Fully bespoke Halo options, for a personal touch will be available later for the summer 2021.”

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ABOVE: WITH COMFORT IN MIND, CHARLES OWEN HAS DEVELOPED A 360DEG HIDDEN VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR ITS NEW HALO AND AND LUNA HELMETS.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 23

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SPRING FASHION.

When it comes to more traditional breeches, Kathryn Bates of retailer Royal Equestrian says that comfort and style are the number one priority. “ e re finding amshield and uiline the most comfortable breeches on the market, being produced from a four-way stretch material with a sticky seat,” she says. “ hey feature shape retention and compression technology and can be paired with your favourite sweater for a smart and sporty look.”

Jackets that you can wear to town and while riding are also very popular.

“Hybrid style jackets that are lightweight with a lightly padded nylon combined with a bi-elastic softshell such as the Pikeur Leyla Hybrid jacket are very much in demand,” explains Julia. “And ama ingly it s windproof

and waterproof. his spring we re also still seeing lots of detail and crystal embellishment.” good, well entilated riding hat is also important in pre enting the dreaded hat hair. “ e recommend amshield and hats for their enhanced air ow, stopping you getting sweaty and being comfortable enough to keep on your head for hours without noticing,” athryn adds.

LEFT INSET: PIKEUR’S COMBINATION OF PADDED NYLON AND SOFTSHELL MAKES FOR A LIGHTWEIGHT BUT WINDPROOF JACKET. LEFT: RIDING TIGHTS WORK FOR EVERYTHING FROM WALKING THE DOG TO GOING FOR A HACK; THIS GILET FROM TOGGI IS MADE FROM 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT-CONSCIOUS RIDER.

WHAT THE RIDERS SAY We ask riders what they wear when juggling home, work and yard life, and their top tips for staying stylish and functional.

“Years in Germany taught me it’s perfectly acceptable to wear yard clothes at the supermarket, or anywhere else for that matter,” says dressage rider and journalist Selene Scarsi. “The main thing to remember is our breeches can cost way more than the poshest of jeans or trousers! The non-horsey item that I couldn’t live without at the yard are my Ugg boots in winter.”

“For people who work in an office and go straight to work from the yard, I suggest wearing overalls to keep clothes clean and a cap to keep hair tidy,” says rider Kerry Flynn. “I recommend doing the basic yard chores in the morning and the rest after work. I use dry shampoo if I’ve been riding and have hat hair, a bit of deodorant to freshen up and give your hands a good wash with a nail brush. I would wear yard clothes to the supermarket but I do wash off my boots before getting in my car.”

“I rarely wear non-horsey clothes,” says Katie Blatchford. “I drop the kids off in clean horsey clothes and collect them in filthy horsey clothes. I work in my horsey clothes (I work from home) and have many pairs of leggings which I ride in, muck out in and generally live daily in.”

“In Herefordshire/Gloucestershire, there are more people in jods in the supermarket than not!” says BBC Hereford and Worcester radio presenter and rider Kate Justice. “I have been wearing my riding tights to work regularly as they look like leggings – it’s a game changer!”

“I live in my riding clothes, especially now I’m working from home,” says rider Karley Hubbard. “If I have an external meeting, I’ll just change my top, but under the table it’s still jodhpurs and knee high socks! Wearing them to the supermarket certainly helps with the 2m social distance rule.”

ABOVE: A BASEBALL CAP KEEPS YOUR HAIR OUT OF THE WAY AND PREVENTS A LINGERING ‘HORSEY SMELL’ WHEN YOU HEAD FOR THE OFFICE.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 25

PRODUCT WATCH.

PRODUCT

SPRING FASHION: YARD, HOME AND BEYOND WATCH

CAVALLERIA TOSCANA GIRLS LOVE HORSES HOODED SWEATSHIRT is made from soft, breathable cotton.

The fabric allows maximum comfort for summer's training and warm-ups. It's also ideal for comfortable everyday use. The sweatshirt is closed by a half zip and features two large front pockets. It's refined by a printed graphic on the chest and elastic cuffs and waistband. Available in pink, navy and grey in sizes XS-XL. RRP £144 | zebraproducts.co.uk

SAMSHIELD DIANE BREECHES are the ultimate combination of technical performance and elegance.

Designed from a high stretch, wear resistant, technical fabric and offer a second skin feel for the optimum in comfort.

Embellished with Swarovski details on the leg and back pockets for an elegant look.

RRP £199 royalequestrian.com

MEGAN SNAFFLE SUEDE handbag with snaffle fitment in brown buffalo leather with suede, has a simple, neat, circular design with an adjustable shoulder strap and metal zip. With just one lined compartment inside, it is a great size for a phone and purse – an everyday bag that will keep your hands free.

RRP £75 | grays1922.com

ABSOLUTE DRESSAGE BOOT by Isabell Werth Veredus collaboration has been extensively tested and approved by many dressage riders. In addition to functionality, practicality and look, the Absolute boot gives the effect of bandages. The boot is made from a high quality technical material. Absolute is an anatomicallyshaped shell that protects impact zones whilst completely wrapping the fetlock, wrapping the fetlock for complete protection. It is available in either elastic or velcro and comes in white and black, medium and large.

PRE-ORDERS TAKEN NOW zebraproducts.co.uk

EQUETECH REVOLUTION TIGHTS feature a generous wide waistband, four-way stretch, ergonomic flat lock seams, matte silicone grip seat and deep durable thigh pockets. Based on Equetech's best-selling design, these riding tights offer the dressage rider comfort with exceptional support and, unlike many on the market, do not become see-through with wear or washing.

Available in black or slate in sizes XS - XXL. RRP £54.95 equetech.com

CAVALLO SELVA SLEEVELESS POLO SHIRT provides a smarter look than a standard vest top and the sporty fit will complement a pair of jodhpurs or shorts. With contrast stripes around the collar and down the button panel, the Selva t-shirt also features a sparkling Cavallo stirrup logo on the chest. Available in dark blue, candy and twilight and sizes 32-46.

RRP £40 | zebraproducts.co.uk

E-FREESTYLE AT DICLASS is new to the UK from eQuick as an ultimate luxury training boot. The stunning and unique design features high fleece tops for added protection without restricting movement. Available in black or white, eFreestyle horse training boots are machine washable at 30 degrees and feature animal-friendly artificial sheepskin.

RRP £79 FRONT, £85 HIND | diclass.co.uk

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MASTERS IN THE ART OF RUG MAKING BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 27

Well-cushioned surfaces providing unrivalled support for lateral movement The perfect dressage surface will support the discipline’s complex movements and demand for accuracy, whilst preventing concussion and injury.

Our range of waxed and non-waxed surfaces has been developed following years of in-depth research, and features a selection of surfaces which will provide a consistent footing when training and competing.

01282 834984 info@equestriansurfaces.co.uk www.equestriansurfaces.co.uk

28 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

PRODUCT WATCH.

PIKEUR LIEN LADIES MATERIAL MIX JACKET is a quilted jersey-tech fabric jacket from the new Pikeur collection. The Lien comes with a stand-up collar and woven quilt lines with fibre ball filling, which makes this coat extremely lightweight yet pleasantly warm. Perfect for any rider's wardrobe! Available in black and taupe.

RRP £138.95 | hudsonequine.com

ABIGAIL HANDBAG in brown with tweed is a lovely leather handbag crafted from buffalo leather.

It features a zipped top, detachable shoulder strap, zipped interior pocket, key compartment, mobile phone pocket and protective feet at the bottom.

RRP £135 | grays1922.com

PEACHY BELTS are detachable buckle belts, as worn by Anna Ross, that help add that finishing touch to your breeches.

Italian leather belts that are handmade in England, they will soften and improve with wear and last for years. With a fabulous selection of Swarovski crystal buckles and classic brass and pewter designs, they make perfect presents as you can keep adding new buckles.

RRP FROM £55 | peachybelts.co.uk

TOGGI SPORT DEFENDER JACKET is great to pop over your show jacket in the warm up and is designed to protect you from the elements. With waterproof zips, fabric and taped seams to ensure you stay dry and cool whilst providing a contemporary silhouette, it boasts a discreet elasticated channel so the waist can be nipped in, and side splits for ultimate comfort and performance in the saddle without losing that all important overall picture.

RRP £126 | toggi.com

LEMIEUX POLO SHIRT is beautifully soft and comfortable in classic slim fit with a touch of stretch.

Flattering shape through the chest and waist with an even vented hem. Subtly contrasting inner collar with a three-button placket and opposing thread colour. Sleeve cuff detail follows the collar and placket colour to add a stylish finish. Available in Sage, Musk, Azure, Navy/ Grey, Plum and Benetton, sizes XXS to XL. RRP £34.95 | lemieuxproducts.com

LEMIEUX ACTIVEWEAR PULL-ON SUMMER BREECH is lightweight with super cool and sweat wicking technical fabric. The seamless design provides comfort and a wide elasticated waist band gives a flattering fit. There is a generous, elasticated phone pocket on both sides at thigh height allows you to keep your valuables secure without getting in the way whilst riding, at the yard, or just for general everyday wear. Full seat silicone pattern adds security and friction in the saddle. Available in grey, navy, ocean and white, sizes 6 to 16.

RRP £69.95 lemieuxproducts.com

MEGAN BAG WITH TWEED

KILHAM COMPETITION BREECHES feature a C-shape tech design to contour your figure to help form the perfect fit. The Coldstream Kilham breeches are made from soft, lightweight, yet durable lycra xtra life fibre technology material and are finished with a full logo design, silicone seat and white embroidered logo detailing.

They are ultra-flattering and silver hardware adds a premium feeling to these stunning breeches. Available in navy, taupe and white.

and snaffle fitment in brown buffalo leather has a simple, neat, circular design with an adjustable shoulder strap and metal zip. With just one lined compartment inside it is a great size for a phone and purse – an everyday bag that will keep your hands free.

RRP £119.99 | coldstreamequestrian.co.uk

RRP £75 | grays1922.com

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 29

INDOOR ARENAS.

GOING under COVER AFTER ANOTHER HARSH WINTER, THOUGHTS TURN TO THE COMFORTS OF AN INDOOR ARENA. HELEN TRIGGS EXPLORES SOME OF THE OPTIONS TO PROTECT YOU FROM THE ELEMENTS WHILE STILL RETAINING THE BEST OF OUTDOOR RIDING.

T PHOTO: WCG

here’s no denying that building an indoor arena from scratch, or even converting an existing outdoor, doesn’t come cheap – even if you don’t want chandeliers, air conditioning and a luxury gallery.

For a basic structure and roof to cover a 20x60 indoor school, you should budget at least £100,000 but there could be additional costs depending on groundwork, fi nish, type of surface, quality of kick boards, lighting etc.

As with any structure, planning permission

30 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

is the fi rst consideration, particularly if your yard is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or in a location where the neighbours may ob ect to what is, in effect, a large shed appearing in their sightlines. esley hu ebottom of steel frame construction company, hu ebottom td advises bringing in an expert. “When I built my own indoor arena I already had a small building on the site which made obtaining planning easier. Planning fees cost around £4000 and I paid another £2000 to an architect and planning specialist. Of course,

if planning is refused you don’t get these costs back,” he explains.

The planning process can be torturous and involve compromise on siting, materials, location, access and landscaping. Even the colour of the fi nal building can be sub ect to regulations to match the surrounding area.

However long you think it might take, it’s wise to double the time! Make a clear case for why you need it. The argument for keeping horses fit during winter months and pro iding year-round amenities for say, RDA or Pony Club activities may sway the decision. You

PHOTO: WCG

SURFACE MATTERS

ABOVE: THE CHALLENGE WITH THE SURFACE IN AN INDOOR IS KEEPING THE MOISTURE IN, UNLESS YOU HAVE A WATERING SYSTEM, WHICH IS WHY WAXED MATERIALS ARE POPULAR. LEFT: A COVERED OUTDOOR ARENA OFFERS PROTECTION FROM THE WORST OF THE WEATHER BUT OFFERS THE BENEFITS OF MORE LIGHT AND AIR CIRCULATION, WHILE ALLOWING HORSES AND RIDERS TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON OUTSIDE. BELOW: PUTTING A ROOF ON AN EXISTING ARENA COULD BE A COST-EFFECTIVE OPTION.

can appoint an independent planning expert or use the services provided by one of the major arena build companies such as Andrews Bowen, who provide planning, design and construction services.

A conversion of an existing outdoor arena, will also still be subject to planning regulations, and there’s the surface to consider.

“If you want to preserve your

existing surface, you’ll need to remove it or move it into the centre during construction, suggests David Andrews of Andrews Bowen.

“We recommend removing the surface if possible. Also seek advice from your surface provider on whether the material is going to be suitable for use under a roof where the conditions will be different.”

Most people choose to erect a steel frame over the arena and you will need to allow for a larger area around the edges to accommodate the steel posts which hold up the roof, and foundations will add an extra 2m all the way around. You will also need to factor in tidying up or landscaping the surrounding area to make it safe.

“Choice of roofi ng may depend on local planning constraints and a material like fibre cement is useful as it holds some moisture and also reduces noise in comparison with steel roofs,” advises Wesley.

David Andrews of Andrews Bowen has welcomed new legislation which will prevent the use of post-consumer carpet fibres in arena surfaces. The Environment Agency has stated that this use presents an unacceptable risk to the environment, is no longer exempt from the Waste Framework Directive and has removed its low risk waste permit.

“This new legislation (which comes into effect on 17 June 2021) is music to our ears. If you are offered a cheap surface always ask for a certificate showing the origin of the carpet fibres.”

“We have never used post-consumer carpet fibre in our surfaces as we believe it is a risk to the health of humans and horses.

Carpet fibres for consumer use are treated with flame retardant and stain resistant chemicals and these are released into the atmosphere when they are ridden on.

“Using these waste products can make the surface cost cheaper but they are a risk. They can also contain large amounts of dust and even nails from when they have been removed from their previous position. We have scoped horses that have been ridden on these kinds of surfaces and the results were unpleasant.”

The chemicals can also affect the performance of a waxed surface as they cause it to dry out more quickly and become even dustier.

“We use carpet fibres as a structure to replicate a natural surface. However at Andrews Bowen we have been trialling a patented purely natural fibre, free of synthetics. We hope to launch soon – so watch this space!”

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 31

British Dressage official partner Andrews Bowen is surface provider for the Winter Championships at Hartpury and the National Championships at Somerford Park.

ABOVE: THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS? GARETH HUGHES HAD HIS INDOOR ARENA BUILT WITH ONE OPEN SIDE TO OFFER MORE LIGHT AND VENTILATION.

IN A PERFECT WORLD YOU WOULD HAVE AN OPEN SIDE WITH SHUTTERS OR DOORS WHICH COME DOWN FOR MAYBE SIX WEEKS A YEAR Once covered, drainage won’t be needed for the surface as the challenge is to keep the moisture in. For that reason, a waxed surface is preferable, unless you have a means of watering in summer.

Emma and Mark Butler have successfully covered their arena in Kent. “We are on the top of a hill so it’s often wet and windy,” explains Emma. “I think the seasons have changed and the weather is a lot wetter and colder than it was. When we moved in here there was a basic woodchip arena; we replaced it with a waxed surface and originally it was really good. Then we had 18 months of continual rain and it just wasn’t draining properly. We also spent a lot of time clearing the arena of leaves, blossom and catkins from nearby trees.

“We were looking at replacing the surface and when we got quotes, my dad Peter said ‘I could put a roof on it for that’.”

Peter loves a challenge and when they realised it would cost £75,000 just to have a plastic cover, they decided to build a steel framed school. They employed an architect to help with the planning process. “We are in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but there is a strong rural economy. There’s a big fruit farm up the road with large buildings and I think that helped us by setting a precedent.

We did have to prove that the business would provide local jobs. Maidstone council planners were actually very good,” says Emma.

The resulting arena is enclosed on two sides to screen off woods and a footpath. For a year, 32 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

their 25x55m arena went down to 20x40m as the steel frame and roof were erected. A concrete contractor was used to dig out the foundations and a good deal negotiated with a steels manufacturer, whereby their steels would be manufactured as part of larger orders. “It was cheaper but not quicker,” commented Emma.

Because they did a lot of the work themselves, and they were able to retain their surface, the costs for a usable indoor came to around £40,000. “Our surface is now 11 years old and still rides well, though we are precious about managing it.”

“It’s the best thing we ever did,” says Emma. “It’s not completely insulated so we do still get some ‘weather’ depending on the direction the wind is blowing. I think some indoors schools which are completely enclosed can be too clinical. I like the fact that I can see what’s going on in the rest of the yard and the horses have some outside stimulus when

they are training. When international trainers come we pop them in the corner with a heater to keep them warm!”

An indoor with open sides offers natural light and ventilation, although it might not reduce the costs that much. When selecting which side/s to leave open, David Andrews advises that you need to check the prevailing winds and patter of sunlight as these can affect how the surface dries out.

“In a perfect world you would have an open side with shutters or doors which come down for maybe six weeks a year,” he says. “Safety is key, so you have to bear in mind wind and noise which can affect the horses. It’s a huge investment, so you have to make sure you get it right.”

An open-sided arena was always the choice for Gareth and Rebecca Hughes when they built their international sized indoor, leaving one long side completely open. “Some indoor arenas are built more for humans than horses.

There were two main reasons for our choice – light and ventilation which are so important for the horses,” says Gareth. “It’s so much brighter and there’s no stuffy feeling in the summer. We selected the open side which is away from the prevailing weather – if the rain’s going sideways you just ride half a metre in from the edge. It happens about four days a year.”

BELOW: MARK AND EMMA BUTLER WERE ABLE TO RE-USE THEIR EXISTING SURFACE HAVING COVERED THEIR SCHOOL WITH A ROOF AND TWO SIDES FOR PROTECTION FROM PREVAILING WINDS AND RAIN.

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BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 33

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34 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

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BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 35

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36 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

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FIT TO RETURN

FIT TO RETURN WITH THE GREEN LIGHT TO START COMPETING AGAIN, IT’S ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR GETTING HORSES AND RIDERS IN OPTIMUM SHAPE AND READY FOR THEIR FIRST SHOWS. JOANNA BOWNS GETS SOME TOP ADVICE FROM INTERNATIONAL RIDER BOBBY HAYLER, HERSELF AN AVID FITNESS ENTHUSIAST, TO HELP GET YOU BACK IN THE GAME AFTER A PROLONGED TIME AWAY FROM THE COMPETITION ARENA.

R

iders could face a variety of issues when returning to competition.

Some may have given their horse a complete break through lockdown; others, access to an arena at home but no lessons. Some may just be short of match practice. With forethought, planning, and a little bit of ingenuity, obby offers some useful tips on how every rider can optimize their preparation.

RIDER HEALTH AND FITNESS On top of healthy lifestyle choices such as good diet and getting enough sleep, there are exercises and habits everyone can adopt, points out Bobby. Take a walk at lunchtime, opt for the stairs and

if you re an o ce worker, perhaps replace your chair with a fitness ball. It’s about making those small changes that together can make a big difference to your riding.

Always be aware of your posture, and each day take a moment to consider your own balance before getting on the horse. In the yard, try standing on one leg so your brain centralises your body, then stand on the other leg; repeat this with your eyes closed so you are totally relying on feel. obby uses a fitness ball, which is an excellent tool for improving balance and core strength. “If you sit to the right when riding, your horse will fall out through the left because you are pushing them that way. The same will happen with the ball!” she says.

ABOVE: ONCE ON BOARD, CONSIDER DOING A SPELL IN RISING TROT WITHOUT STIRRUPS AS IT REALLY HELPS IMPROVE YOUR BALANCE. IT IMPROVES THE UNDERSTANDING OF RISING FROM YOUR KNEE AND THIGH AND ALLOWS THE LOWER LEG TO RELAX. IF YOU RELY ON THE STIRRUPS TO RISE, IT MEANS YOU’RE UNSTABLE.

WONDER WORKOUTS ff the horse e ercise is an excellent way to condition the rider’s body and, with an array of classes available online, it’s never been easier to access.

Furthermore, you can do it from the comfort of home and at a time that suits. Zumba is brilliant, says Bobby. It’s fun, good for your stamina and develops coordination as you have to watch and copy. Yoga and Pilates are good for enhancing strength, e ibility and balance. “ ne fitness app lo e to use is it n. t offers a broad range of fantastic sessions you can do anywhere, anytime plus dietary advice, and

it’s free. It’s a real game changer.”

Access to a personal trainer is also recommended, even online if you cannot go in person.

Bobby advocates taking part in any sport that makes you happy and gi es you confidence. “ especially think it’s important for under 21s to take part in team sport. There are so many lessons to be learnt from it.”

Working with a physio is hugely beneficial, she adds, to e en out any crookedness, improve awareness and eliminate any tightness. “If you have awareness of your body and understanding of what the horse is supposed to be doing, you’re away.”

ABOVE, LEFT-RIGHT: 1) IF YOU’VE A FEW MINUTES BEFORE YOU RIDE, CARRY OUT THIS EXERCISE SITTING ON THE BALL: LIFT ONE LEG UP AND HOLD IT THERE; DO THE SAME WITH YOUR OTHER LEG KEEPING ONE FOOT PLACED ON THE GROUND. 2) ON THE BALL, KNEEL ON ALL FOURS. PUT ONE LEG OUT BEHIND YOU THEN THE OTHER THEN DO THE SAME WITH YOUR ARMS. 3) BALANCED IN A KNEELING POSITION, GET SOMEBODY TO THROW YOU A BALL. CATCH IT AND QUICKLY THROW IT BACK. THIS ‘TAKE IT AND GET RID OF IT’ MOTION EMULATES THE ACTION OF THE BODY IN THE HALF HALT. 4) LUNGES ARE BENEFICIAL AS THEY HELP TO OPEN UP THE HIP FLEXOR MUSCLES. THIS IS ESSENTIAL TO ACHIEVING A CORRECT, EFFECTIVE SEAT.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 37

RIGHT: WORKING IN COUNTER CANTER IS INVALUABLE. “IT STRENGTHENS YOUR NORMAL CANTER LEAD, LIFTS THE SHOULDER AND DEVELOPS CONFIDENCE FOR THE RIDER BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO GAIN BALANCE AND AWARENESS OF THE BODY,” SAYS BOBBY. “IT HELPS WITH COLLECTION, AS IT MAKES THE HORSE SIT, AND IT INCREASES SUPPLENESS.”

EVALUATING YOUR HORSE’S FITNESS efore you set off for your first competition, the horse must be fit enough to cope with the work plus the additional demands of tra elling and standing around.

If your horse can comfortably do a warm up plan, a test and a cool down, that s a heads up that he s generally getting ready to compete. hether you re building or maintaining the horse s body conditioning, adopt a routine that de elops the horse whilst keeping him mentally fresh and engaged with his work.

Example Team Hayler training week: Monday: ymnastic, long and low day. erpentines, easy transitions, getting the horse supple through the ribcage after a day off. oti ating the horse and making it fun. eeping the brain nice and busy.

Tuesday: hink about picking the horse up, practise movements from the test, start training more challenging new mo ements.

Wednesday: ‘ ut of the arena day lungeing hacking water treadmill canter day.

Thursday: tart with suppling work, then pick the horse up again.

Friday: Another more challenging session practising mo ements and training new ones.

Saturday: acking fun day Sunday: ay off horsewalker and handgra e turnout

SUPPLENESS, REACTIONS AND ADJUSTABILITY t all stages of fittening, the aim is to foster suppleness, reactions and ad ustability within the paces. irst off, obby says it s important to develop adjustability in the walk as this is the foundation for the other paces. ou must be able to lengthen and collect the walk so bear this in mind at the start of e ery session.

An exercise to help the horse balance himself is to ride a 10 or m circle at e ery marker in

trot or canter, then as you return to the marker ride a transition to walk or trot respecti ely depending on the stage of training the horse is at. ake a transition up and repeat at the ne t marker. his e ercise enables you to take ad antage of the wall or fence to help engagement.

Remember there are activities you can do out hacking. f it s safe to do so and there s no tra c, walk down the middle of the lane. his is good practice for riding a centre line. sk yourself “ s the horse between both my legs or is he leaning one way or another ” t s about getting our brains into that fi ne detail and getting the horses back on our aids and becoming sensiti e about leg pressure and seat pressure.

ABOVE LEFT: EVERY DAY, BOBBY INCLUDES THE EQUISSAGE IN PRE-WARM UP AND COOL DOWN FOR ALL HER HORSES. ABOVE RIGHT: BOBBY IS A GREAT BELIEVER IN THE USE OF SERPENTINES TO HELP THE HORSE BALANCE AND BEND THROUGH THE RIBCAGE.

38 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

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40 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

FIT TO RETURN

unable to be there, they can play it through an earpiece.”

Describing a typical part of her warm up, Bobby says, “After 10 or 15 minutes in walk, getting the horse to listen to my cues, I next like to canter as it’s a more natural pace for the horse than trot.”

ABOVE: WALKING ON A HARD SURFACE HELPS IMPROVE BONE DENSITY. RIGHT INSET: POLE WORK, CAVALETTI WORK AND JUMPING IS FANTASTIC, SAYS BOBBY, AS IT MAKES THE HORSE THINK ABOUT WHERE THEIR FEET ARE AND STRIDING. “IF THE WEATHER IS BAD ON A ‘HACKING DAY’ WE MIGHT LUNGE THEM OVER POLES WITHOUT A RIDER. IT NATURALLY ENGAGES THE HORSE’S CORE WHICH IS WHAT WE WANT IN DRESSAGE.”

VARIETY FOR HEALTH The horse needs to move in order to promote good musculoskeletal health so plenty of time spent out of the stable is essential.

Exercise your horse on a variety of surfaces, advises Emily Barrett BSc PhD DVM CertAVP MRCVS from Oaklands Equine Hospital, as it’s one of the components vital to maintaining soundness. “It’s really important to incorporate walking on roads or hard surfaces within your training programme as it helps to improve bone density,” she explains. “It’s also valuable time spent out of the stable which is vital for good joint health.

“Walking in-hand and handgrazing are both ways to do this. Hacking is also very good, though I wouldn’t recommend too much trotting on roads due to the additional concussive force it places on the limbs.”

“Give your horse variety, ride in the field when you can and remember that your horse doesn’t always have to be working in a compressed outline. Vary the frame, allowing him long and low often to encourage suppleness and relaxation.”

STRUCTURE, GOAL SETTING AND MOTIVATION For anyone looking to retrieve their competition mojo after the disruption of the past 12 months, getting structure and motivation as an individual and a rider is essential, advises obby. oal setting, fi ne tuning communication between horse and rider, and preparation are key to you getting competition-ready.

Develop a strategy consisting of goals and mini goals as it’s these achievable steps that motivate, she says. “A mini goal could be building up your horse’s fitness and ha ing an effecti e schooling routine; a middle goal is having your training in place and devising a warm up plan, then a bigger goal could be planning which shows you want to compete at.”

Having a warm up plan is fundamental, she adds. It makes you more secure as an individual as you can then go to a show with a plan. If you haven’t got one, don’t be afraid to ask your trainer for help. “I like to record warm up sessions with my students.

Then at a competition, if I’m

PLAY IT SAFE OR TAKE A RISK? Don’t always try to be perfect in training. Enjoy the process and allow yourself to make mistakes as that is how you develop! Push yourself out of your comfort zone a little, then at a competition it will seem easier. “I’d always recommend that you are working a level higher at home. That way, you and your horse can be secure in the work at a competition,” says Bobby.

Once comfortable and confident at your current le el, you can think about taking the next step. Each level brings new challenges but the underlying principles remain the same.

You have to understand your basics and what the horse’s body is doing underneath you. At all levels, every moment of the training is about suppleness, reactions and adjustability.

MATCH PRACTICE Hire a local arena if you can before venturing out to your fi rst show. et your horse used to travelling again and being tacked up in the lorry etc. With a young horse that hasn’t been out before, take them for a lesson with someone experienced who’ll suggest methods to give the horse confidence on the day.

COMPETITION DAY e confident, knowing you e prepared as best as you can, and approach the day with a positive mindset. Be organised, decide what time you want to leave and manage your time effecti ely to a oid any stress.

“Most importantly,” concludes Bobby, “remember to enjoy the experience and don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t get the scores you want – it’s been a challenging year for everybody.”

To read more about Team Hayler visit teamhaylerdressage.co.uk

ABOVE: GETTING STRUCTURE AND MOTIVATION AS AN INDIVIDUAL WILL BE ESSENTIAL.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 41

42 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

ASK THE EXPERT.

HAPPY GUT, HAPPY HORSE GUT ISSUES IN HORSES CAN HAVE WIDE RANGING SYMPTOMS FROM LOSS OF PERFORMANCE TO DIARRHOEA AND COLIC. WE SPOKE WITH INDEPENDENT NUTRITIONIST DR LUCY WILLIAMSON TO UNDERSTAND MORE ABOUT HOW USING FIBRE AND PRE-BIOTICS CORRECTLY CAN HELP YOUR HORSE COPE WITH THE STRESS OF TRAINING AND COMPETITION.

“T

he signi cance of gut health and its impact on well eing for humans has ecome increasingly ac nowledged in recent years, ut ta ing care of the gut can also ha e important ene ts for health and performance in horses too, e plains ucy.

In the wild, horses gra e for up to hours a day and are largely sedentary. his low stress lifestyle with plenty of roughage little and often is ideal for the design of the e uine digesti e system, eeping stomach acid le els consistent and pro iding plenty of re for hindgut health. tress e perienced in the domesticated horse can increase acid production leading to stomach ulceration and can also reduce fa oura le acteria in the hindgut. ut acteria the gut micro iome in the large intestine hindgut of horses ferment re that has passed through the stomach and small intestine, producing products needed for health. In humans these are itamins, uilding loc s for proteins and hormones plus other chemicals which can reduce in ammation, pre ent allergies and support the immune system. his same process happens in the hindgut of horses with e ual importance to their health, she says.

In horses, the diet of which is mainly ased on re, fermentation plays a more important role in digestion than in humans. he e uine hindgut is made of two parts, the caecum and colon and the ene cial acteria here are ery signi cant to their health. hese hindgut acteria uild up o er time during the horse’s early life the foal in the wom is sterile’ and is rst e posed to gut acteria in the irth canal. olostrum includes li uid re which then encourages the de elopment of this rst colony of gut acteria the foal then ta es re from its diet after weaning to nurture these acteria further.

We now that reduced turnout is a stressor in itself, ut importantly also reduces re inta e. orses gain of their energy from re, so it’s clear why less re can affect performance, ut unfortunately we don’t yet now how much is enough’, comments ucy. arly signs that there is a gut im alance can include loose droppings, ut ecause the acteria ha e such a wide range of health ene ts, it can also result in general symptoms such as a poor coat or loss of performance. esearch associates poor hindgut health with increased ris of colic too.

Anti iotics can also affect gut health, noc ing out ene cial acteria, with the results often seen as loss of condition or the onset of allergies following treatment for an unrelated condition. Any trauma within the gut can also upset the alance of acteria, for e ample, a out of ulceration or colic will ha e a negati e impact on the hindgut, slowing the horse’s reco ery e en when the ulcers ha e een addressed. wners now their horses well with increased nowledge of the hindgut and how it lin s to their horse’s health, they are est placed to see the impro ements, which will ary with each indi idual horse.

LEFT: THE PRE-BIOTIC SEA BUCKTHORN CONTAINS A MULTITUDE OF NUTRIENTS AND CAN BE USEFUL IN REGAINING OR MAINTAINING GUT BALANCE.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 43

ASK THE EXPERT.

ABOVE: ADEQUATE FIBRE IS ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAIN HINDGUT HEALTH, BUT ENSURING A CONSISTENT SUPPLY FOR COMPETITION HORSES CAN BE MORE DIFFICULT.

The good news is that the bacteria respond quickly to an increase in re a aila ility. his can e helped along with the use of pre iotics, plant res which can e fermented y the hindgut acteria to promote est health.

Vitamins A, C and E and antioxidants often present in pre iotic supplements help with hindgut health too.

These should be distinguished from pro-biotics which are foods containing li e acteria such as li e yoghurt, shown to e ene cial to human gut health. ittle research has een carried out into their effecti eness in horses as yet.

“In stressful situations, the aftermath of colic or other traumatic situations such as illness or injury which can trigger hormonal responses and upset gut balance, aiming to e as consistent as possi le with the supply of re can help the horse maintain gut health, says ucy.

A pre iotic supplement can offer a highly ene cial effect from a small dose, which also means that it can e used in the run up to an e ent such as a competition or tra el in addition to your usual feeding regime. his ma es it a practical way to help the hindgut in many situations.

Sea buckthorn has long been acknowledged as a useful ingredient – the ancient Greeks noted that horses foraging on it had shiny coats, which is where its ancient name yppophae’ stems from.

Analysis has recorded o er different nutrients in sea uc thorn from itamins to antio idants, including mega , , and . mega has een shown to heal the intestinal lining, which makes it a successful natural remedy for treating gastric ulceration. Its mega 44 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

SEA BUCKTHORN CAN BE FED ALL YEAR ROUND TO SENSITIVE HORSES, USED IN WINTER WHEN TURNOUT IS REDUCED OR KEPT FOR STRESSFUL SITUATIONS has anti in ammatory properties and is important in alance with mega in the repair of damaged cells.

Antio idants ha e a ey role in eeping the ody in good condition and can help a oid tying up.

As a natural ingredient, sea buckthorn can also be safely used alongside medication.

Administered in liquid form, some of its nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine before it works its way to the hindgut where the re is fermented. he acteria here also acti ate the antio idants and can enhance a sorption of other nutrients. ea uc thorn can e fed all year round to sensiti e horses, used in winter when turnout is reduced or kept for stressful situations, helping the horse’s natural microbiome to stay healthy, get the most nutrients from his diet and reduce stress related illness.

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46 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

BUSINESS BRIEF.

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY WORKING WITH HORSES IS INHERENTLY HAZARDOUS, SO IT’S IMPORTANT FOR RIDERS AND GROOMS AND THOSE EMPLOYING THEM TO KNOW THE LAW CONCERNING SICK PAY AND RETURNING TO WORK. IT ALSO MAKES SENSE FOR

A

BOTH PARTIES TO HAVE ADEQUATE INSURANCE COVER.

t one time or another, most employers in the equestrian world will face an issue concerning the illness of an employee, which might be complicated by the fact that they are selfemployed. The time might also come when the usiness needs to let staff go.

LEGAL MATTERS

GUY HOLLEBON OF HARRISON CLARK RICKERBYS Are businesses required to offer sick pay?

Employers must pay Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) which entitles an employee to £95.85 a week and can be paid for up to 28 weeks.

ALL GROOMS WHETHER THEY ARE IN FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT OR FREELANCE SHOULD CONSIDER PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE

What support is available if you are self-employed but unable to work due to sickness?

SSP is only available to employees but if someone is genuinely self-employed, they may be entitled to Employment Support Allowance.

What are the employee’s rights if they are no longer able to carry out their role – for example, breaking and schooling young horses – due to sickness or injury?

Inability to undertake the role they were employed to do can be a fair basis to dismiss an employee.

Much will depend on whether the employee meets the de nition of disa ility under the Equality Act 2010. If they do, they will be protected from less favourable treatment because of their disability and the employer may have to make reasonable adjustments which could include altering job duties.

Even if not disabled, an employee with more than two years’ service has the right not to be unfairly dismissed and an employer

will need to consider when an employee is likely to return and whether any alternative employment may be available. An employee who is not disabled and has less than two years’ service can be dismissed without following any prior process, provided that they are given the correct period of notice under their contract.

What are the employee’s rights if a business or sector becomes no longer viable?

If a business is no longer viable and closes entirely then there will be a redundancy situation all staff will e entitled to their correct notice period and employees with over two years’ service will also be entitled to a redundancy payment. If the employer is insolvent and cannot pay these sums, employees can recover some or all of the money from the government insolvency fund.

If a part of the business is no longer viable but other parts continue, the employer may need to consider whether alternative employment in the continuing parts of the business is available as an alternative to redundancy.

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 47

BUSINESS BRIEF.

COVER FOR EMPLOYERS SHEARWATER INSURANCE

What insurance do employers need for cover if their rider/groom is injured or taken ill at work and does this differ if the rider/groom is self-employed?

Whether an employer is employing staff on a full-time, part-time, occasional or freelance basis there is a legal requirement for the employer to obtain Employers Liability insurance. This policy must provide a limit of indemnity of at least £5 million and be sourced from an authorised insurer or broker.

An employer may e ned up to , for every day that they are not correctly insured.

Is cover available for wages if the employer needs to take on another member of staff in their rider groom’s absence and still needs to pay their original employee? a ing the a ility to pay staff in the e ent of accident or illness is a running cost that needs to be considered by any business and should be built into their operational contingency plan.

However, should a self-employed groom or rider have their own personal accident policy they may be able to make a claim for compensation when they are unable to work.

This will be dependent upon individual policy wording and would be paid to the selfemployed individual rather than the employer.

Does business interruption insurance provide cover where the range of services that can be provided (e.g., lessons, clinics, horse sales) has been reduced by COVID restrictions?

Business Interruption insurance is designed to provide cover for loss of trading due to an insured period, such as being closed due to re or ood, or due to a forced closure such as access roads being closed. Most policies of this type will exclude claims that arise from any disease, fear of or threat of disease that is noti a le to the go ernment or local authority, or one that is declared a Public

Health Emergency or International Concern by the World Health Organisation.

COVER FOR EMPLOYEES

LIZ CORDERY OF KBIS BRITISH EQUESTRIAN INSURANCE What insurance should grooms take out for themselves to cover in the event of an injury or illness and does this differ if they are self-employed?

All grooms whether they are in full-time employment or working on a freelance basis should consider taking out personal accident insurance. All personal accident policies will differ and it is important to read the terms and conditions to understand exactly what cover you are purchasing. At I we offer oth our own personal accident policies as well as working with the British Grooms Association. ur own personal accident policy offers weekly payments if you are unable to work through illness or injury as well as providing lump-sum payments in the event of a serious injury, plus dental cover for treatment not provided by the NHS.

HAVING THE ABILITY TO PAY STAFF IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS IS A RUNNING COST THAT NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED BY ANY BUSINESS AND SHOULD BE BUILT INTO THEIR OPERATIONAL CONTINGENCY PLAN 48 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

Can they claim against their employer if the injury takes place when riding or caring for a horse as part of their job?

Any employee has the right to make a claim for compensation from an employer if they are injured at work; however, to be successful you would have to prove that your employer had been negligent in some way and they had failed to ful l their legal duty of care.

Can grooms protect their income if they are off work for a long period and or laid off or put on restricted duty due to their injury or illness (for example if someone has a badly broken leg and can return to work but not ride young horses or not ride at all)?

The KBIS standalone personal accident policy can pro ide wee ly ene ts if you are signed off y a medical practitioner as un t to work. There is an excess period which means if you are injured you will not be able to claim for the rst two wee s that you are una le to work and for an illness you will not be able to claim for the rst three wee s, howe er if this is a serious incident or illness then the ene ts will be paid for up to two years. he ene ts are only paid if you are entirely’ un t for wor so if a doctor has said that you can return to work in any capacity the ene ts payments would stop.

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BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 49

22/02/2021 12:28

THE SEAT OF

communication SO FAR WE’VE LOOKED AT THE HUMAN BRAIN AND ITS POWER TO AFFECT RIDING PERFORMANCE. THIS TIME ANDREA OAKES MOVES ON TO THE BODY, STARTING WITH THE AREA THAT FORMS THE FOUNDATION OF POSTURE AND BALANCE: THE PELVIS.

S

ince this bony, bowlshaped structure connects the trunk and the legs, it is not surprising that the positioning of the pelvis can have far reaching effects throughout the body. In the saddle, pelvic issues can travel up the spine, shifting the shoulders and neck out of alignment to compensate, or downwards, limiting leg mobility and overall stability.

As the ‘interface’ between horse and rider, the pelvis affects not ust our posture but also how clearly the aids are applied and transmitted. Science is now proving what we’ve always known, that stiffness or asymmetry does not go unnoticed by the well-trained horse. A recent study revealed that horses whose riders achieved better

50 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

pelvic mobility on a Swiss ball worked with more harmony and showed fewer con ict beha iours.

According to biomechanics expert Lindsay Wilcox-Reid (www.equipilates.com), the key to good mobility and a correct, centred position is full function of the ‘suspension system’ - the muscles that surround the pelvis and hip oints. “ he pel is is the first part of the body that receives forces from the horse, which must be absorbed and dissipated through the system,” says Lindsay, explaining that the horse’s gait cycle creates forces in threedimension: forward and back, side to side and in rotation.

“There is a very small amount of mo ement in the pel ic oints, which is crucial for effecti e shock absorption. Instead of

helping to support and stabilise these oints, howe er, the surrounding muscles can become overactive and slightly ‘stuck’, restricting pelvic movement.”

This overactivity can be an unfortunate spin off of modern life, says Lindsay, especially for deskbound riders who have been working from home during the pandemic.

“Lack of movement can contribute, so sitting for long hours at a laptop without the benefit of ergonomic furniture doesn’t help,” she explains.

“Restriction in the pelvis can also develop as a result of too much repetitive movement, or a sudden spook, buck or olt that knocks your suspension system out of balance.

“Gradually, the muscles enter a low-grade spasm to protect a

BODYZONE.

vulnerable area,” adds Lindsay.

“They receive instructions from the brain to stay half on and half off, so they can t really relax but neither can they work properly. The pelvic joints then lose their ability to absorb mo ement as e ciently.”

How can we ease these muscles out of this protective state and restore their full capacity?

“A common response is to do a lot of stretching, but this can worsen the problem,” says Lindsay, likening a muscle spasm to a knot in a rope that simply tightens when you keep pulling.

“Muscle energy techniques to calm down the overactivity will be more effecti e, perhaps alongside treatments such as massage.”

Pelvic issues can creep in unnoticed; you may become aware of issues because you feel uneven in your stirrups or seat bones, or perhaps one hip

feels further forward than the other. Ideally, once restriction is identified and corrected, a rider can work to keep these muscles fi ring freely.

We all have some asymmetry in our bodies and even in our bony structures, just like our horses, explains Lindsay, but supplementing a riding routine with a healthy measure of out-of-saddle exercise will help prevent any functional asymmetry caused by muscles and connecting soft tissues.

“Any sport or activity that promotes movement is good, from yoga to running or salsa dancing,” she says. “ hat s important is that you enjoy it, so that you make time for it.

Pilates shares many of the same principles of riding, such as breath, precision and control, and m also a fan of the Franklin Method, a system of dynamic body alignment that is popular with riders for improving an awareness of how the body is feeling.

“Ask your Pilates instructor to suggest some seated exercises that give direct feedback to the seat bones,” she suggests. “Standing work is very relevant, too; riding is essentially a standing posture, especially in a dressage saddle, so pay real attention to the weight distribution through your pelvis to your feet and how your feet feel in relation to the oor.”

ASSESS YOURSELF Put your pelvic mobility to the test with a simple, chair-based exercise.

“This is a good self-assessment to identify asymmetry in the tone of the hip rotator muscles,” says Lindsay. “Sit on a chair, with your legs hip-width apart, and cross your right ankle over your left thigh. Now place the opposite hand on your knee and, using 20% of your maximum possible effort, press your ankle down into your thigh and your knee up into your hand. Hold this for 20 seconds before releasing.

“When you switch to the other side, a difference in flexibility may become apparent,” she adds. “Once you’ve addressed any biomechanical issues, ideally with treatment, use this regularly as a release exercise.

Try four sets, four times a day for a few days, to change existing brainbody neural pathways into more helpful patterns, then reduce this to a couple of sets a day, or just before you ride.”

Within an established horse-rider partnership, pelvic issues may not be ob ious. o fi nd out if you re both compensating for subtle rider stiffness, indsay suggests allowing your feet out of the stirrups to see what happens when your pelvis has to fi nd a slightly different position, or bringing both legs away from the saddle to highlight any issues

with the piriformis muscles that attach to the sacrum on either side.

For true transparency, try the Swiss ball. “ f you re struggling with tilts and twists in your riding position, some simple exercises on the ball will identify any biomechanical issues and can ultimately improve your performance,” she says.

IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING WITH TILTS AND TWISTS IN YOUR RIDING POSITION, SOME SIMPLE EXERCISES ON THE SWISS BALL WILL IDENTIFY ANY BIOMECHANICAL ISSUES AND CAN ULTIMATELY IMPROVE YOUR PERFORMANCE For more information on the study into the pelvic mobility: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/2/453?fbclid=IwAR1SSRJiiMSNXx0o5s22Zp4JyBA4HASwv6Danh5jS0wQMsi6JlleQyfxpvY

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 51

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BD ACTION.

BD ACTION KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST NOTICES, NEWS AND VIEWS FROM BRITISH DRESSAGE AT BRITISHDRESSAGE.CO.UK

REMINDER: ELECTION OF BD TRAINING DIRECTOR AND BD PARA DIRECTOR As published in BD Magazine Issue 2, there are two Director positions eligible for election this year – the roles of BD Training Director and BD Para Director. Applications are open until midday on Tuesday 4 May 2021 so there’s still time

PETPLAN EQUINE WINTER AF DATE CHANGE The Petplan Equine Winter Area Festival due to be held at Beacons Equestrian Centre in Carmarthenshire will now run 2224 May 2021. The revised schedule is live on BD Online.

JUDGE RETIREMENTS Barbara Marceau (List 5) and Pauline Velten (List 4), both from East Sussex, have retired from the Judges Panel. British Dressage would like to thank Barbara and Pauline for all their hard work and support over the years and wishes them all the best for the future.

ARE YOUR REGISTRATIONS UP TO DATE? This is a polite reminder that horses and riders should be registered before entering BD competitions. Organisers may take late entries at their discretion, however the onus is on the competitor to ensure they are registered prior to the entry being accepted.

Due to the high volume of

apply for either, which are fantastic opportunities to get more involved in shaping and developing future strategy in key technical areas.

Please see page 49 of Issue 2 to find out more about the application and election processes.

registrations at peak times, we advise you allow three working days for postal registrations to be processed. Alternatively you can join online at britishdressage. co.uk/membership Those who compete without being registered will not be covered by BD members’ insurance and their results will be excluded.

Repeat offenders may be fined.

SAVE THE DATE The team at Wellington Riding has pulled out all the stops and will host a CDI3*/1*/U25/YR/J/ CH/P over 11–16 May. Currently, the international won’t count for Olympic qualification but can be used for the European Championships for all age groups.

FREE LEGAL HELPLINE: 0845 0178 601 30 minutes of free legal advice from fully-qualified solicitors with specialist expertise in equine matters. The helpline operates seven days per week, with an answerphone message out of hours. You’ll receive a call back within 24 hours Monday to Friday.

Details of the specified knowledge, experience and competencies required for a Board Director, along with the role descriptions, are available on the BD website: britishdressage. co.uk/our-sport/britishdressage/job-vacancies/

To request a nomination form and for further information, please contact: Ben Waterhouse, Chief Operating Officer, on ceo@britishdressage.co.uk or call 02477 087805.

2021 BD APPROVED TACK GUIDE LIVE ONLINE The updated BD Approved Tack booklet is live on the BD website. It’s an easy-to-use guide to check that your tack, dress and equipment are all BD-compliant before you compete. Visit: britishdressage. co.uk/competitions/competition-rules/

KEY DATES (COVID DEPENDENT) 23-25 Apr 30 Apr-5 May 1-4 May 13-16 May 18-22 May 20-23 May 21-23 May 22-25 May 23-25 May 27-29 May 28-30 May 29 May-3 Jun

Keysoe Premier League, Bedfordshire Myerscough Premier League, Lancashire Winter Regionals, Wellington Riding, Hampshire Winter Regionals, Morris Equestrian, East Ayrshire Winter Regionals, Myercough College, Lancashire Winter Regionals, Vale View Equestrian, Leicestershire Hickstead Premier League, West Sussex Winter Regionals, Codham Park Equestrian, Essex Para Winter Championships, Myerscough College, Lancashire Winter Regionals, Prestige Equestrian LLP, Gloucestershire Somerford Premier League, Cheshire Winter Regionals, Merrist Wood College, Surrey

ONLINE DRESSAGE Why not use lockdown to get some competition practice using one of our four authorised providers: www.dressageanywhere.com, www.dressageonline.org, www.e-riders.co.uk, www.themaneshow.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 53

Young Horse

Forum FEI 5* judge Isobel Wessels and BD Training Director Paul Hayler host the 2021 Young Horse Forum to discuss scales of training, way of going and what the judges want.

ONLINE

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Streaming from 2 April for 90 days! Visit www.britishdressage.co.uk.

54 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

BD at Home_fullpage.indd 1

24/03/2021 12:44:25

REGIONAL ACTIVITY. SOUTH & EAST DO: Katharine Perry and Sharon Walker (job share) M: 07872 603871 (Katharine) M: 07894 232358 (Sharon) E: south&east@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Lotte Olsen 01277 822525 Coaching: Tracy Wright 07951 570315 Emma Butler 07843 585504 Rider training: Nicola Preston 07984 642291 Samantha Williams 07974 225005 BD Youth: Phillippa Coles 07860 215895 Jessica Brown 07852 282983 Judges: Yvonne Huber 07933 133132 Jane Howard 07831 406406 Para: Joyce Wood 07949 035021 Joanne Dagley-Cleworth 07967 605566 Marketing: Katie Tysome 07772 571497 Caroline Gibson 07795 035581 SOUTH & WEST DO: Amanda Rodgers M: 07894 232355 E: south&west@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Susie Cumine 07860 677 977 Coaching: Amy Blount 07773 228562 Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955 Rider training: Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955 BD Youth: Jo Lees 07709 376470 Judges: Alicia Anderson 07778 898499 Para: Mark Cunliffe 07717 727147 Marketing: Sharon Stuart 07912 225700 Paula Holland 07748 666794

NORTH & WEST DO: Alex Phillips M: 07495 013192 E: north&west@britishdressage.co.uk

SCOTLAND

Chairman: Tim Downes 07775 797484 Coaching (South): Jane Critchley 07966 865604 Coaching (North): Alison Calvert 07980 886004 Rider training: Jackie Crombie 07816 216594 BD Youth: Sue Blackshaw 07528 570681 Judges: Denise Glanville 07966 303633 Brenda Pamplin 07415 203766 Richard Baldwin 07903 942498 Para: Alison Ramseir 07809 456296 Caroline Unwin 07842 219043 Marketing: Anna Tomlinson 07773 428176

Chairman: Caroline Paterson 07554 086211 Coaching: Jean Stephen 07718 315834 Rider training: Linda Thompson 07919 441039 BD Youth: Kerry Sutherland 07720 085248 Judges: Gillian Peters 07501 444132 Para: Johanne Picken 07507 270508 Marketing: Amelia Ratcliffe-Smith 07837 533506

NORTH & EAST DO: Jo Byrne M: 07783 791191 E: north&east@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Vikki Hayton 07860 276578 Coaching: Charlotte Wilson 07949 076141 Rider training: Sarah Farrand 07941 640148 BD Youth: Jess Griffiths 07590 732896 Charlotte Clark 07786 344617 Judges: Helen Copeland 078773 06864 Para: Gillian Brown 07872 923456 Marketing: Sarah McClarron 07557 281360

DO: Kerry Sutherland (Interim) M: 07584 147258 E: scotland@britishdressage.co.uk

WALES DO: Mari O’Connor (Interim) M: 07398 763414 E: wales@britishdressage.co.uk Chairman: Mike Mullis 07706 940315 Coaching: Amanda Leaker 07980 309398 Rider training (North Wales): Helen Hopewell 07971 490038 Rider Training (South Wales): Bethan Powell 07545 082247 BD Youth (North Wales): Megan Roberts 07807053246 BD Youth (South Wales): Briony Cutler 07889 817609 Judges: Dianne Breeze 07491 531953 Para: Tracy Ormrod 07973 616497 Marketing: Cethin Ravenhill 07974 900941 Jen Smithson 07900 993223 Quest: Lorry Davies 07940 449002

JUDGE TRAINING

REGIONAL TRAINING

Important information: In view of the disruption to the judge training and competition calendar, dispensation has been granted for fulfilling CPD requirements as a judge. The exemption allows an extended period – until Spring 2021 – to attend CPD. We recognise the challenges around face-to-face CPD as a number of the regional seminars were cancelled last year, along with the cancellation of the Principles of Judging Seminar. As an alternative, you will be able to fulfil your CPD requirements by attending two online Zoom judge training sessions at your current level. We thank you for your continued understanding and support.

To apply to become a Trainee judge, visit britishdressage.co.uk/judging/how_to_ become_a_judge. For judge training dates and further information on upcoming seminars and induction days, please see the BD website. Please note that the new exam policy is now in place, so any judges wishing to upgrade must have been at their current list for a minimum of one year before coming forward.

Please visit the Judge Bookwhen page at: bookwhen.com/bdjudges where you will find all judge-related booking links including trainee judge registration, system registration, music paper booking, the judge listing form and Zoom judge training sessions.

Reminder: It’s a compulsory requirement for all judges to attend two Zoom sessions at the relevant list per year.

Please visit each region’s Bookwhen page for the latest dates and to book your place.

South & West www.bookwhen.com/bdsouthandwest South & East www.bookwhen.com/bdsouthandeast North & West www.bookwhen.com/bdnorthandwest North & East www.bookwhen.com/bdnorthandeast Wales www.bookwhen.com/bd-wales Scotland www.bookwhen.com/bdscotland

PART 3 EXAM DATES All judge examinations that have been cancelled will be rescheduled in 2021 to accommodate candidates. Where possible, those booked onto cancelled dates will be offered priority booking.

For more information visit britishdressage.co.uk/judging/judge_training and to book visit the judges’ Bookwhen page: bookwhen.com/bdjudges

All dates are subject to the status of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Please keep an eye on the British Dressage website and social media channels for the latest updates and arrangements.

For the most current dates, please refer to the regional Bookwhen pages which can be found on each regional web page: britishdressage.co.uk/regions/

BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 55

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DRESSAGE DAYS.

DRESSAGE DAYS Q&A MEET ANNIE HUNTER BLAIR Watching a horse you’re involved with develop and achieve success can be an incredibly enjoyable experience. However, you don’t necessarily have to be the one looking through the ears in order to benefit. For those who adopt the role of owner, the rewards can be immense, as is the case with Annie Hunter Blair (née Whittet) who handed over the reins of Dior UKH, or Pimms, to leading para rider Erin Orford in 2015. We caught up with Annie, who lives in Herefordshire with her husband Alastair and daughter India, to find out just what it has meant to her to support another rider’s career.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR OWN DRESSAGE ACHIEVEMENTS I have enjoyed competing for over 10 years on a range of different horses, including imms. A highlight was winning the lementary Freestyle winter regionals on imms and also ualifying for the ationals on her in . I currently ride a horse called allynoe allo who is successfully competing at edium.

TELL US ABOUT WEIR END FARM EQUESTRIAN We are based in Ross-on-Wye on a acre ara le farm which my

hus and farms. I relocated from ampshire in and set up Weir nd Farm uestrian this is now my teaching ase and we also offer training li ery, clinics and arena hire.

DESCRIBE PIMMS AND HOW SHE CAME INTO YOUR LIFE imms is an incredi le mare with the most amazing temperament.

At the time I met imms she was ased with ynn Wic es who I was training with, and ynn as ed if I would compete her whilst she was for sale on ehalf of client. After a few shows it was impossi le to let her go, so my parents indly allowed her to stay with me.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST THINK THAT SHE AND ERIN WOULD MAKE A GOOD MATCH? A friend of mine had always said that imms was orn to e a para horse which, at the time, I ne er really understood his was until rin came to try her at my yard and within e minutes I new what she meant. hey clic ed immediately and went so eautifully together that I new I wasn’t getting the ride ac ou could see imms li ed the way rin rode and it was clear that she would loo after her.

WHAT FOR YOU HAS BEEN THEIR CAREER HIGHLIGHT? he uropeans in othen urg was incredi ly special. rin and imms had a last minute call up to the team so it was such a surprise to e going. A wee later, um and I were on a plane and we watched rin win her rst senior championship medal.

It was such a fun wee and so inspiring to see the para riders rst hand. We also got to go to W in ryon and that whole e perience was hard to ta e in. All the disciplines were at the same enue and for Erin and Pimms to e selected was such a life achie ement.

58 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

HOW REWARDING HAS IT BEEN FOR YOU AS AN OWNER? I can genuinely say I ha e gained more pleasure y eing part of rin’s ourney than my own successes. We ha e tra elled to some ama ing places and met such inspiring people. rin and I are great friends and she allows me to e fully in ol ed in all they do.

PIMMS HAS NOW TURNED 18. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR HER? ur priority is to eep her happy and healthy, and all the time she is still en oying her o she will eep doing it. he is still a alued mem er of the World lass s uad so we hope to see her carry on competing.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE TAKING ON THE ROLE OF OWNER? o for it I ha e lo ed e ery moment of imms’ para ourney and feel incredi ly honoured to ha e een part of it. ot many people can say they own a World uestrian ames medal winner

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BRITISH DRESSAGE // Issue 3 2021 // 59

w w w. s a m s h i e l d . c o m 60 // Issue 3 2021 // BRITISH DRESSAGE

DRESSAGE COLLECTION