THE PERFECT SURFACE
Ensure you specify the purpose of the arena so that the design can reflect the “majority” of its use.
ARENA DESIGN Expert arena builder Trevor Kouwenhoven discusses in part 1 of a 2-part article the importance of having clear and concise planning when taking on an arena project.
THE COST “BREAKDOWN” It is necessary to link arena design plans to costings so that you are fully aware of how and where your money is being spent. In the next couple of articles we examine the three parts or sections of the planning process to help you better understand what to look out for.
DESIGN When designing an arena, we have several considerations and goals to achieve, but the underlying principle of any design is “for the benefit of the horse”. This in turn benefits the rider. It makes sense therefore that your chosen designer should have a degree of knowledge and awareness of the materials being used for the construction of the arena and the subsequent effect on the animal’s hoof, ligaments, tendons and various muscle groups. Note: Most earthworks contractor know how to build a road but know nothing about horses. Each equine discipline requires different design bases and surfaces. For example, an eventing arena requires a more robust design to handle higher impact pressures due to jumping than that of a pure dressage arena. The impact needs to be absorbed by the surface. Bases that are too hard rebound shock waves back into the horses legs causing injury. Surfaces which are too shallow can be exposed to lifting from the horse hoof sliding. Remember also, bare foot horses require a softer surface blend between base and sand to that of shod horses who can endure harder surfaces. 22 | DRESSAGENZ BULLETIN | FEBRUARY 2019
Your design drawings should reflect: • the thickness and number of layers required to fit your individual needs • a detailed understanding of post spacings • necessary border heights • board thickness • drainage and irrigation Also durability will also need to be factored in as this will have significantly impact on your final build cost.
WATER We mention this aspect of arena building often due to the massive impact it has on structures of this nature. Every arena will be affected by water, whether by rainfall and/or subsequent surface volumes. A good design will ensure proper water/moisture management and the include the structure’s ability to cope both in the short and long term. Make sure your design allows for your location’s regular weather patterns and possible extreme events. New Zealand’s climate can be unpredictable and poor planning can easily reduce your arena’s ability to function efficiently. BE CAREFUL! Taking shortcuts to save money often results in a substandard result and disappointment. Maintain quality control during the quote/design process and compare all aspects of specified materials against other quotes.