EQuine AMerica Fall 2019

EQuine

fall 2019 . $12

magazine

LUSITANOS IN AMERICA OPERATION WILD HORSE USEF PARA COACHES PROGRAM EQUINE ARTIST BETTINA NORTON

BOYD MARTIN’S RUTLEDGE FARM SESSION A LONG CONVERSATION WITH DEREK DI GRAZIA GOOD READS - DAVID O’CONNOR RIDING FOR THE TEAM

NE WPORT BE ACH | ASPEN | PALM BE ACH | 866. 584.2666 | 561.318.8671 | LUGANODIAMONDS.COM

equine america MAGAZINE UNITED BY THE PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 12 . 2019. publisher

CLR Media, LLC editor

Carina Roselli Editorial Assistants

Lays Coutinho - Afonso Westphal Contributing Writers

Jean French, Dr. Bob Grisel, Lisa Hellmer, Lynndee Hemmet, Holly Johnson, Olivia Lagoy-Weltz, Carina Roselli, Daniela Siberio, Dr. Ashley Wagner graphic designer

Afonso Westphal WEB DESIGNER

Chris Roselli COVER PHOTO

Ramon Casares COVER model

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| EQuine america magazine

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World Cup Night | President’s Cup

PROLOGUE

dear reader, Welcome to our fourth issue! It finally feels like we’re finding our identity in this magazine game…

To that end, I hope you like our new logo! ! It comes after some confusion at the Hampton Classic where

We also did a quick study on Lusitanos in America and we’ve got

everyone called us by different names! After that eye-opening

another new columnist to add to our ranks; Dr. Ashley Wagner is

experience, we decided to nix the abbreviation and just spell it

with us to answer your questions on equine nutrition (so please

out. I’m honestly not sure why we didn’t start there, but I’m very

send me some).

glad we’ve arrived here. We’re doing it with character though— it’s EQuine AMerica so we remember our roots.

Finally, this issue’s Our World column holds a piece of my heart, and hopefully it will edge its way into yours too. Operation

Back to why you’re here… This issue offers so many great

Wild Horse is putting saving wild mustangs and saving military

stories from our American horse world that I don’t even know

veterans together in one organization. As these two American

where to begin! Cross Country is the discipline in focus this time,

icons both tend to fight for survival, it turns out they make the

and a long conversation with course designer Derek di Grazia

perfect pairing. You’ll learn its impact straight from the veteran’s

sheds a lot of light on him, the profession, and his upcoming

mouths.

course at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics—no small thing. On top of that, we’ve got a fantastic write-up on Boyd Martin’s Rutledge

As always, thank you so much for welcoming EQuine AMerica into your lives, and I wish you a great read.

Farm Session where he proved you can do a lot of cross country training without ever leaving the arena. Last but not least, this issue’s Good Reads is an extract from “Riding for the Team” where David O’Connor gives us his thoughts on safety on course.

As for the other disciplines we love… Our Dressage columnist,

Carina Roselli - Editor

Olivia Lagoy-Weltz, shares what it takes to run a high performance

P.S. I want your feedback! Contact me at carina@eq-am.com

program—spoiler alert—it’s not what you think! In Para Dressage,

or message me on social media @eqammag.

new para coach (and beloved Cavaletti Crossfit designer) Lisa Hellmer brings us inside the new US Equestrian Federation Para Dressage Coach Certificate Program as she herself is going through it. And for Show Jumping, we’ve covered some of your favorite shows: the Hampton Classic, the American Gold Cup, and the inaugural Longines Global Champions Tour New York recently held on historic Governors Island.

In and around those stories, we’re bringing you art in many forms: Bettina Norton’s beautiful paintings are on display and we’ve got a great conversation with Rebecca Smith, brainchild of Rebecca Ray Designs, and an editorial on Zadeh’s artful jewelry.

At the Hampton Classic. Photo by Frank Tedeschi (husband and silent partner).

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RUTLEDGE RUTLEDGE FARM FARMSERIES RUTLEDGE FARM SESSIONS RutledgeFarm.com/clinics SESSIONS SESSIONS SERIES SERIES

RutledgeFarm.com/clinics RutledgeFarm.com/clinics RutledgeFarm.com/clinics June 3

Peter Wylde

Show Jumping

Watch Watchnow nowon on Watch now on USEF USEFNetwork Network USEF Network

July Peter Peter13-14 Wylde Wylde Peter Wylde Show ShowJumping Jumping Karen Healey Show Jumping Equitation Watch Watchnow nowon on Watch now on USEF USEFNetwork Network Aug. 10 USEF Network

Boyd BoydMartin Martin Boyd Martin Boyd Martin Eventing Eventing Eventing Eventing

Aug. 31 - Sept. 1

Will Simpson

Show Jumping Watch Watchnow nowon on Watch now on USEF USEFNetwork Network USEF Network

Will WillSimpson Simpson Will Simpson

Watch Watchnow nowon on Watch now on USEF USEFNetwork Network USEF Network

Debbie DebbieMcDonald McDonald Debbie McDonald Dressage Dressage Dressage

Sept. 14-15

Debbie McDonald Dressage

Show ShowJumping Jumping Show Oct. Jumping 19-20

Ali Brock Dressage

Oct. Oct. 19-20 19-20 Oct. 19-20 Ali AliBrock Brock Ali Brock

Dressage Dressage Oct. 26 Dressage Phillip Dutton Eventing

Oct. Oct. 26 26 Oct. 26

Phillip PhillipDutton Dutton Phillip Dutton Eventing Eventing Eventing

Nov. 9-10

Stacia Madden Equitation

Nov. Nov. 9-10 9-10 Nov. 9-10

Stacia Madden Madden Additional clinicians to beStacia announced soon!

Stacia Madden Olympic Medalist Sessions

Olympic OlympicMedalist MedalistSessions Sessions Olympic Medalist Sessions

Equitation Equitation Equitation

International Champion Sessions

International InternationalChampion ChampionSessions Sessions International Champion Sessions

equine america MAGAZINE UNITED BY THE PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 12 . 2019.

CONTRIBUTORS Bob Grisel, DVM Dr. Bob Grisel graduated from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine with honors and having received multiple awards. Bob’s recent publications focus on lameness, especially the correlation between abnormal gait characteristics and specific sources of pain in the horse. His new book, “Equine Lameness for the Laymen” is excerpted in this issue.

Jean French Jean French is the Owner/Instructor/Trainer of The Natural Connection, Inc. located in Linden, Virginia. In operation for over a decade, training in both western and English disciplines, her life has been dedicated to helping thousands of people learn the language of the horse. Accomplishments are measured in the many dozens of horses whose journeys led them to help and growth through Jean’s program.

Lisa Hellmer Lisa Hellmer is a USDF bronze and silver medalist on her Oldenburg, Aniko (“Sneaks”), currently competing at Intermediate I. She graduated summa cum laude from Johnson & Wales University with a degree in equine business management and riding. She is now a USEF Silver Para Dressage Coach and recently formed LCH Equestrian in Ocala, FL.

Olivia Lagoy-Weltz Olivia Lagoy-Weltz is a USDF bronze, silver, and gold medalist.

Her earlier experience includes working for and riding at several top barns in Holland and Germany. Olivia is currently competing her own Rassing’s Lonoir (“Lono”) on the CDI circuit in Wellington, Florida and throughout Europe. Most recently, USEF selected Olivia as Team USA’s traveling alternate for the World Equestrian Games, Tryon 2018.

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CO

Holly johnson Holly Johnson obtained her Bachelor’s of Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurship from the University of Miami in 2009, and subsequently worked as a dressage rider and marketing professional before launching her own firm. Holly founded Equinium in 2015 as a combination of her passions: horses and marketing. In 2019 she was awarded an MBA in Sports Marketing.

Lynndee Kemme She started her journalism career as a daily news reporter covering public policy and agribusiness. Her passion for horses led her to become a professional trainer and to expand her journalism career into the world of equestrian sports. She has written for numerous equestrian publications covering such events as the World Cup, the WEG, etc.

Daniela Siberio Daniela Siberio is a dressage rider and owner of Lusitano Masters, a training facility located in Loxahatchee, FL. Since falling in love with the Lusitano breed in 2015, she has become an advocate for the breed within the sport, dedicating herself to training young Lusitano horses through the levels to compete successfully in the competition circuit in Wellington. Daniela is also passionate ambassador for RAD Roller and myofascial release for rider mobility.

Dr. Ashley Wagner Dr. Ashley Wagner obtained her Doctorate in Equine Nutrition from the University of Kentucky and went on to work in new product development in the feed and supplement industry.

She founded Equinutrix Nutrition Solutions to meet what she saw was an industry need for supplements with scientifically proven efficacy in horses. Her involvement in research has led to numerous co-authored scientific articles, abstracts, and speaking engagements.

Ontributors

equine america MAGAZINE UNITED BY THE PASSION FOR HORSES . VOLUME 12 . 2019.

68.

• Contents • 16.

Equine Arts

- Bettina Norton’s Simplicity Series

View how Bettina can intertwine simple lines to form the most beautiful interactions between horses and horses, and horse and humans.

24.

Good Reads - David O’Connor “Safety First” Read David O’Connor’s take on Cross Country safety in an extract from Riding for the Team by the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, edited by Nancy Jaffer and Published by Trafalgar Square Books (HorseandRiderBooks.com).

64.

Equine Vet

- Telehealth, Part II by Dr. Bob Grisel

In his second installment, world-renowned equine telehealth expert, Dr. Bob Grisel, explains what’s needed to make the technology a logistical success in our industry.

84.

Equine Nutrition - Q&A with Dr. Ashley Wagner Meet our newest columnist, Dr. Ashley Wagner. As a Ph.D. in equine nutrition, she explains her expertise and what she believes are the biggest problems plaguing our horses’ today.

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14.

28.

Natural Horsemanship - Cruisetown, Part III Jean’s third installment on the story of rebuilding her Irish sport horse “Cruise” from the ground up. This time she tells us where she went wrong and how she made it right.

32.

Zadeh -

by Carina Roselli

As an extremely talented jewelry artist, Catherine tells the story behind her precious yet rugged pieces that are both masculine and feminine and traverses day into night.

44.

Inside Rebecca Ray Designs - by Catherine Zadeh In a conversation with the editor, Rebecca Smith, owner of Rebecca Ray Designs, tells us all about herself, her brand, her house, and her horses!

52.

Eventing - The Brains Behind Tokyo 2020’s Cross Country Course Derek tells our editor about his career as a cross country course designer, building the Olympic course, and everything in between.

68.

Lusitanos in America -

by Daniela Siberio and Holly Johnson

Lusitano breeders, importers, and trainers tell us how the breed is an underestimated talent that’s developed an American following.

82.

Para Dressage - USEF Para Coaches Program Lisa Hellmer walks us through the USEF’s new Para Dressage Coaches Program and what it’s been like as she’s going through it.

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Our World -

Operation Wild Horse

As told by Program Director Patti Gruber and Conversations with Veterans Program Members Ja’nice Barrs and Ryan Bentele Operation Wild Horse is saving mustangs and veterans at the same time.

Patti explains the workings of her remarkable organization, and conversations with the editor tell how it’s touched these veterans’ lives.

contents

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Divine

equine

The finest equestrian goods, curated for you by the Editor.

Grey Horse Candle Company

Zadeh design “I design with intention, each piece fueled with integrity and passion.” —Catherine Zadeh Having founded her eponymous jewelry brand 25 years ago,

sensational,

Catherine Zadeh (pronounced ZAH-DAY) is an original pioneer of

equestrian themed, 100% soy candles in 20 scents! Owner

gender fluid, luxury jewelry. At once bold and effortless, structural

Ashley Hall created scents like “Bran Mash,” “Carriage Ride,”

and timeless, Zadeh pieces are equine-inspired and perfect for

and “Blanket Season” for her special holiday collection

the equestrian who craves universally wearable, luxe, signature

that’s perfect for the crisp fall and winter weather. Other

pieces. Zadeh is for the confident non-conformist who doesn’t

scents like “Sweet Feed” and “Hay,” “High End Saddle” and

shop fleeting trends, but rather invests in exquisite, quality

“Spring Pasture,” literally blow your mind wondering how

jewelry made to live in. Zadeh pieces are designed to be stacked

she bottled the true essence of these scents we smell as

or layered as a unique reflection of the wearer’s individuality.

Grey

Horse

Candle

Company

makes

often as we can possibly make it to the barn. For those of

Catherine

is

consciously

committed

to

sustainability

us who aren’t lucky enough to be there every day, these and

and chooses her materials on principle. Each Zadeh piece is

“Morning Hack” and “Moonlight Ride” might tide you over

handcrafted in New York from luxury metals, precious gemstones,

between visits.

Italian leather, vegetable ivory, parachute cord, and reclaimed

Originally started in Eastern Tennessee in 2016, Grey

buffalo horn. They are unexpected yet thoughtful, sustainable

Horse Candle Company now calls beautiful Central Florida

materials combined to last forever. The natural elements of her

home. Each candle that passes through their doors is hand

jewelry actually improve with time and transition beautifully

poured in small batches from exclusive ingredients, and

from the barn to the boardroom to the black tie event. For

made with a love and passion for a lifestyle shared with

men and women, Zadeh is timeless luxury—never to be taken

horses. Grey Horse Candles are sold in over thirty states and

off. Visit www.zadehny.com to see all of Catherine’s wearable

four countries; see a full list of stockists on their website at

works of art. Pictured here: Hampton Pendant in 18kt yellow

https://www.greyhorsecandles.com/, wax melts $5.00,

gold ($8,750) and, from top to bottom, the Malo in yellow gold

tin candles $13.50 or three for $35 (Holiday Scents Only),

with two baguette diamonds ($5,600), San Remo in 14kt yellow

and glass candles $17.50; use promo code ‘BLUE RIBBON’

gold ($2,250), and the Blake ($1,650) and Clou ($1,300) in 10kt

for 15% off!

yellow gold.

SPECIAL HOLIDAY EDITION LEVADE KENTUCKY BARN JACKET Levade Kentucky designs their classic styles in the heart of horse country and then ethically source and responsibly manufactures each piece in the heart of Los Angeles’s garment district. Their attention to detail—fit, fabric, and style—is second to none.

In an industry steeped in tradition, Levade works tirelessly to design sophisticated equestrian lifestyle apparel that transitions seamlessly from the barn to the street. Their mission is to be the antithesis of fast fashion means transcending trend and season with moderns classics carefully crafted to last. They believe in quality not quantity, and offer a limited collection. Like your favorite pair of jeans they want their clothes to become the go-to favorites you wear season after season, and only get better with time.

The Modern Barn Jacket is an updated version of the classic featuring a more feminine, tailored fit. Crafted in durable, 100% washed cotton canvas, it will hold up against the elements and your toughest barn chores. Available in French blue (shown) and faded coral, the jacket features a button front with covered placket, four roomy pockets, a standing collar that can be worn up or down, and contrast stripe lining made from organic cotton and hemp.

Machine washable. Check out the rest of their line at https://shoplevade.com, $448.

Charleston Shoe Company Neely Powell started her Charleston Shoe Company after falling in love with the simple and skillful designs of a local cobbler in Mexico. No, these shoes aren’t made in the USA, but they are the product of someone who knows how to ethically outsource while building her American dream. Neely didn’t just purchase (or copy) that cobbler’s designs and commission the lowest bidder, she hired him, and—20 years later—he and a team of artisans still hand sew each sandal, shoe, and boot that Neely now designs in Charleston, South Carolina (hence the name).

Charleston Shoe Company provides the charismatic, confident woman the most comfortable shoes with effortless style. Their beautiful shoes will take you from cobblestone streets to the cocktail party and everything in between. They’re perfect for the woman who needs to slip out of her riding boots and into something both comfortable and fashionable for the rest of her day right into her night. As an added bonus, almost all of their shoes are machine washable, so no matter what the day brings they’ll stay looking great, and you’ll feel even better knowing you finally have shoes that fit your equestrian lifestyle!

Charleston Shoes are loved by women who appreciate comfort but aren’t willing to sacrifice style. The Federal ($165), the Aiken ($165), and the Barcelona ($150) are perfect examples of that. As top picks for our fall and winter season, choose the Federal for its ultra-soft suede and modern design, the Aiken slip-on bootie for its hand-stitched tapestry embellishments, or the machine washable Barcelona for its studded sole detail that’s a little bit rock n’ roll. Find many more beautiful designs for all the women in your life at https://charlestonshoeco.com/.

Divine

equine

The finest equestrian goods, curated for you by the Editor.

Charles Ancona

Show Shirt We all know Charles Ancona makes

amazing

show

jackets,

but have you seen his new show shirts? I’m in love with a good cap sleeve, and they give this shirt a sporty yet elegant look. Made in a lightweight, breathable, technical stretch fabric imported from Italy, these show shirts (like their jacket counterparts) are beautifully tailored right here in New York’s garment district. They also feature a stand up show collar with two snaps and four snaps down the chest, all designed for the best fit. These shirts come in white for showing, black for training, white with black details, and

WEARABLE ANTIQUES A love of art and horses have been a constant in Sally Lowe’s life since she was a young girl. Growing up in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, she started foxhunting as a young girl. Now combining her love of horses and the sporting lifestyle with her MFA, Sally

black with white details (pictured), or any way you want it because Charles Ancona New York is ALL CUSTOM—custom fit and custom colors, just like his jackets! Get yours at your favorite hunter/jumper show, call toll free 1-888-ANCONA-1 or 212-727-3435, or order online at www.charlesancona.com, $225.

experiments with equestrian jewelry using vintage buttons, antique equestrian medals, and other vintage finds. She endeavors to design pieces that are pretty to look at and easy to wear at the same time— it has to be durable enough to be worn in and around the barn and still look good if you wear it out at night.

Most of Sally’s work is one-of-a-kind, and her inventory turns over quickly, but antique medals like this one are our absolute favorite.

Produced in 1924, this gorgeous and rare bronze medal from Romania bears an amazing patina that only comes from years of love and wear.

Stylish

Equestrian

Flecks of copper shine through the primarily bronze hue of the medal

The Stylish Equestrian is a singular source for carefully curated,

which measures 2 3/8” in diameter. The medal has been bezel wrapped

upscale equestrian items. As a shop that’s truly for equestrians by

in sterling silver and suspended from an 18” necklace of hand-knotted

equestrians, they discover and support small businesses and work

freshwater pearls in bronze tones that complement the medal, $295.

with companies to create exclusive, never-before-seen products.

Sally Lowe Design pieces are available at Tri-County Fashion,

The Saddle Up Throw is the perfect trainer gift for the cold

Feeds, and Finds (Marshall, VA), GlassBoat (Richmond, VA),

weather to come. With a nostalgic touch inspired by the Wild West,

The Laurie Holladay Shop (Gordonsville, VA), Carter & Spence

this timeless piece will warm up any living space. Crafted with soft

(Warrenton, VA), Equine Divine (Aiken, S.C.), Roberta Peters Design

blended cotton and featuring a sporty motif of neutral tone stirrups

(Mountain View, CA), and online at https://sallylowe.com. Please

and leathers, this throw is a great piece for the barn or the house.

email Sally at sallydeanlowe@gmail.com if you’d like to discuss

Measures 50” long by 60” wide, machine washable, and made

commissioning a custom piece.

in the USA. Keep someone stylish and warm by visiting https:// stylishequestrian.com, $174.

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Top Jock

Tack Boxes Grooming boxes are another gorgeous product from Top Jock Tack Boxes! These beauties are 24 inches wide, 24 inches tall, and 15 inches deep. They’re made in the typical Top Jock medium of stainless steel, Oak, and sheet metal and can be secured by key or even keypad. Once the two hanging doors open up, you’ll find a shelf, a drawer, and a large compartment to organize all the things floating around your grooming bay.

They have handles on the side for carrying and the top for hanging, or can sit nicely atop your Top Jock tack box (if you’re lucky enough to have one). Of course they’re also customizable: pick your color, add your custom graphics, and engrave some oak with your name—talk about the perfect Christmas surprise, plus you can stock more gifts inside! Customize yours at https://topjocktackboxes.com, starting at $795.

SPORT HORSE ESSENTIALS Sport Horse Essentials (SHE) is an all natural and chemical free line of grooming products for horses and other furry loved ones. This incredible line came to be when SHE’s creator couldn’t stand breathing and applying all of the standard chemical-based products that have harsh side effects on humans and horses. All SHE products were made for your everyday grooming essentials. We use all natural ingredients, carrier oils, and essential oils that have many amazing antibacterial properties that help overall in the health of your horse. As a competitor, SHE also found it challenging to find products that are free of banned substances. As a result, SHE developed all of their products in compliance with the banned substance list for the USEF and FEI federations.

Each basket is one of a kind and includes a Fly Spray, Coat Spray, Fungus Blend, Hoof Oil, (2) SHE Crunch Cups, and other “assorted goodies.”

Assorted goodies can include a hoof pick, brush, curry, candles, chocolates, and other decorative items potentially including an adorable plush unicorn. Get one for a special someone at https://sporthorseessentials.com, $120.

an Capall Mens Performance Shirt An Capall is Beauty and Brains just like us! Their clothes are soft, comfortable in the heat or through a challenging ride, warm in the winter, and they fit all body types like a dream. Their mantra is LOOK HAUTE RIDE COOL® in their eco-chic and comfortable performance wear. Their new Performance Polo uses an innovative fabric made from recycled water bottles that are sustainably sourced and made in the USA (of course) Because Earth is the Only Planet with Horses® Pictured here is An Capall’s new Long Sleeve Men’s Performance Polo. It’s moisture wicking, cool, breathable, machine washable, odor resistant, and antibacterial. It offers UPF50 sun protection and comes in white, black, and navy for the discerning man in your life. In line with the latest trends, this shirt makes an easy transition from barn to bistro. Check it out along with their parallel line of women’s performance wear styled for every body at https://www.ancapallequestrian.com/, $165.

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E q u i n e A rt s

Exploring Simplicity 2

I saw a line drawing years and years ago in a magazine and thought it would be so cool if I could recreate something like this later with my art. My goal was to use simple lines, horses as my subject, and convey how I feel about things. The idea is that less can truly be more.

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Bettina Norton’s

Simplicity Series Bettina is a self-taught artist from Santa Barbara, California.

Her work is largely inspired by her beloved horse Frankie and the salty Pacific. The art you see here is from the artist’s Simplicity Series, created with charcoal, sumi ink, and acrylic on canvas or paper, with frames sanded and/or painted.

Bettina started young, drawing Breyer

horses she knows personally. Still, she finds

horses as soon as she could hold a pencil. Her

that, over and over again, her art coincidentally

mom would read her stories while she’d sit

looks like her chestnut, gaited, Rocky Mountain

and draw for hours. At 15, however, Bettina

Horse, Frankie, who she’s been partnered with

was on track to become a semi-professional

for almost ten years.

ballerina, but she quit because she wanted to

Bettina loves that her art has held great

be around horses—to her, “loving horses is

meaning for people well beyond what she

an all or nothing thing.” But Bettina’s art kept

could have imagined. “I just paint these little

on. Drawing Breyer horses at the kitchen table

works of art in my home, never knowing the

eventually led to a mini studio in her bedroom,

emotional places they will go and the souls they

which traveled with her as she moved from

will touch. It’s a hugely meaningful part of what

home to college, back to home, and then on

I do,” she says. As an example, when a client

to grad school. She’s now leveled up to a much

picked up a painting recently, she explained

larger art studio space, despite not being a full-

that the way the two horses stood together

time artist. Bettina also works for the University

reminded her of how she and her sister were

of California at Santa Barbara, has a Master’s

just before her sister passed away from ovarian

degree in Psychology, and is involved in several

cancer. It was their last moment. As she and

professional endeavors.

Bettina stood and talked, they looked at the art

Most of her art revolves around horses

and noticed that Bettina had added four stars

with a scattering of dogs, landscapes, and girls

into the sky, surrounding the moon. She had

mixed in. She’s found that, in the same way

done this without much forethought, but the

some artists communicate most clearly through

two immediately knew the stars represented

abstracts or nudes (for example), horses are

her client and her three sisters (one of whom

Bettina’s clearest vehicle to communicate what

was now no longer with them) all surrounding

she needs to say. Maybe it’s because horses have

their mother, the moon.

been the center and bedrock of her life, giving

For herself, Bettina’s current favorite is a

her stability, adventure, and routine all in one

Simplicity Series self-portrait of her and Frankie

sweet loving package. Those same horses often

that she painted about six months ago, Frankie

become Bettina’s subjects, as she tends to paint

+ Me, included in this feature.

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Close When I started creating this piece, I was looking for a way to illustrate connection in the simplest way possible. This piece allowed me to create a lot of emotion with very few lines.

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Adventure and Routine

My horse Frankie and I spend a lot of time outside exploring the world, and while we have a certain routine to how and what we do, we engage in a lot of adventure. What I found is that adventure and routine are strange yet lovely companions, and they do better together. I wanted this piece to remind people to engage in both adventure and routine and to find both in still, quiet moments just like this rider under the moonlight.

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Dancing Partners 2 I was a dancer growing up; a dressage, jumping, and trail rider later; and a yoga teacher too. All of these activities have put me in touch with dance in its many forms. Watching horses play with each other often feels like watching a ballet, and this piece conveys the sense of joy and lightness they exude.

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Moonlight Horses are such sweet, connected souls who share their love for each other constantly. So, I had to create a little painting to showcase just how this looks and feels. I think this piece brings a renewed sense of admiration for horses and their incredible love and connection for each other.

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Frankie + Me This piece was inspired by the many beautiful moments I’ve had riding with Frank. We have an amazing time together, and I feel that this is the truest self-portrait I have ever done of us. Considering that it is so simple, this paining truly expresses how much you can say with just a few lines.

“I’m lucky that making the art gives me tremendous joy, while providing great happiness for the person who gets to have it later.”

goo d rea d s Published by Trafalgar Square Books / HorseandRiderBooks.com

Photo: Nancy Jaffer

David O’Connor

safety First An extract from Riding for the Team by the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, edited by Nancy Jaffer and Published by Trafalgar Square Books (HorseandRiderBooks.com).

Eventing is quite a different sport than it was when I started in the game. The emphasis on safety increased

Dressage in those days was rather simple and

beginning in the late 1990s, but two decades into the

straightforward. At the same time, show jumping was

twen­t y-first century, it came into even sharper focus.

more influential. When I began my career, it cost 10

When I did my first CCI (international event) in

24

tracks and steeplechase.

penalties if you dropped a rail.

1978, the fences were more substantial and upright.

In those days, nearly everyone who evented also

That era’s version of “frangible technol­ o gy” was a

went fox hunting, or perhaps competed in point-to-

fence that broke. Upright bounces and upright gates

points and galloped racehorses. It was much more

were a part of the game. At Radnor in 1979, an upright

about coming from that background than it was a few

gate halfway down the hill caused a lot of wrecks. It

decades later. Pony Club, for instance, was very strong

weeded out half the division, but I was able to jump it

with eventing. As the years went by, fewer riders had

and because of that, I did well and got noticed.

that background, and their numbers will continue to

Cross-country definitely was the big deal, the

decrease as more land is being developed. There is not

reason for eventing. Courses were not as technical as

as much opportunity anymore for future eventers to

they are today; they were more straightforward and

be involved in fox hunting or racing as easily as once

rewarded boldness, while the endurance side was a

was the case.

big factor, though that diminished after it was decided

In the 1970s and ‘80s, the sport was smaller and

to drop the long format, which included roads and

the horses usually were Thoroughbreds who tended

| Equine america magazine

“

Changing the culture is very important. Even from the time when I started, the

“

winner sometimes was the last man standing. That’s an exaggeration, but at that time, you were able to remount two or three times after a rider fall.” David O’connor.

to be in their second careers: ex-racehorses or

States in 1974 and 1978. If Bruce were in his

horses that were not fast enough or too careful

thirties now, he would be one of the Michael

for steeplechasing. By the turn of the twenty-first

Jungs of the world.

century, more and more horses were purpose-

I don’t think that kind of change is limited to

bred for eventing. While today’s European

just our sport, though. Think about concussion

Warmbloods would have had a hard time with the

levels in football. Across society, there’s a

demands of the long format, dropping the speed

different look at many sports than there was 20,

and endur­a nce phases suited their abilities, as a

30, or 40 years ago. That’s just reality, and I think

greater emphasis on dressage and the technical

that’s a societal thing.

aspects of cross-country emerged.

When I was president of the U.S. Equestrian

In the 1960s, only two combinations were

Federation, we held a safety summit in 2008

allowed on a cross-country course. Now there

after seven international riders from around the

are 45 efforts in a CCI four-star (which became a

world died during the 2006 and 2007 seasons.

five-star as the levels were adjusted in 2019) and

One of the questions that we asked was, “Are

no restriction on the number of combinations.

there things you can do about people getting

It’s a huge difference, because combinations are

killed?” We are try­ i ng to reduce horse falls,

more intense and take more effort.

because if you do that, you reduce rider falls.

The effect of the changes means eventing is a

At the safety summit, one of the first

different sport than it was when I started. I’m not

things we talked about was changing

a person who looks backward in a way of think­

the culture, which takes a while in

ing that was better or worse. It’s just different,

a sport like ours.

and your job is to deal with it. That involves a

Changing the culture is very

skill set for riders, many of whom, as I said, lack

important. Even from the time

experience riding at speed.

when

Doing the steeplechase was not great for the

I

started,

the

winner

sometimes was the last man

horses, and today they generally are sounder,

standing. That’s an exaggeration,

which means in some ways, it’s a little better

but at that time, you were able

for them. Cross-country now is the fastest thing

to remount two or three

you do, which was not the case when we were

times after a rider fall. Even

doing the steeplechase: after going 690 meters

after a horse fall, you were

per min­ u te, you’d head out on cross-country

able to just get on and go on.

and go 570 meters per minute. I don’t think

The orientation of finishing at

Germany’s Michael Jung—the former Olympic,

any cost, which started with

World, and European Champion—has ever done

the cav­a lry, does not fit with

a steeplechase in his life. Neither have Jonelle

today’s sensibilities, when it

or Tim Price from New Zealand, but they’re

is no longer acceptable to put

beautiful cross-country riders.

horses at risk in the rush to the

I don’t get into the habit of comparing one gen­ e ration to another. To compare a Bruce

finish line.

We are not going to stop

Davidson to Michael Jung is not relevant. Today’s

horse falls altogether and get down to

game isn’t the one Bruce was playing when he

zero. The real barometer of suc­cess is:

won the World Championship for the United

do we see that number coming down? At Photo: Nancy Jaffer

25

goo d rea d s

“

“

Now, with the change in the culture, you see people who’ve had two stops just

walk off the course. I think that’s all for the better. It’s better for the horse and better for the rider. David O’connor.

the summit, we asked how this could be turned around.

make jumps any narrower.

The consensus was that one way involves riders’

For the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, another big change

responsibility in terms of not entering competitions

in the way eventing is being run was man­d ated because

for which they and their horses are unprepared, and

the International Olympic Com­m ittee wanted to have

admitting it when they make a mistake. The principle

“more flags,” but the same number of horses. The only

involved is that responsibil­ity equals accountability. We

way we could get more countries competing was to

have to be willing to stand up and say, “That was my

have fewer riders on a team. So the Tokyo format is to

fault.” That phrase should be used when appropriate

be three on a team, instead of four, with a substitute

not only by rid­e rs, but also course designers.

rider available in case one team member is eliminated.

Now, with the change in the culture, you see people

We want teams to finish, but we don’t want to

who’ve had two stops just walk off the course. I think

make the cross-country that much easier. So yes, you

that’s all for the better. It’s better for the horse and

can substitute, but doing so, you can’t win. The winner

better for the rider. And yes, there has been a culture

is going to be the team that goes all the way through

shift. Once you have that, peo­p le buy into a thought

with the same riders. It’s quite different from the way

process. The dressage phase has gotten better, but not to the level where it has had an impact on the crosscountry ride, unless some people overdo it. The quality of the riding in show jumping has gotten better.

It comes down to having the horses under­s tand the questions and enjoy what they’re doing.

That involves technique and communication from both members of the partnership. The horses of yesterday would have needed a completely dif­ f erent type of training if they were to return and attempt today’s courses, with all the corners, which were fences we didn’t jump a few decades back. If you took the course for the 2018 Tryon World Equestrian Games and threw it into 1968, no one would have gotten around it then because they didn’t train for it.

With the change in the sport, you’re seeing really good cross-country riding, really good show jumping riding, and really good dressage riding at the top levels.

We’re in a refining stage now, with angles and narrow panels cross-country. Looking at what the next change will be, there are a couple of different options. I don’t believe dressage can go that much higher, though there’s probably room for a few other exercises. I can see the horse trials show jumping being a little bit bigger. There might be a look at other ways to give penalties. How do you separate the excellent from the really good? That’s a continuing process, but you can’t

26

Photo: Nancy Jaffer

FROM THE

Photo: Nancy Jaffer

“

LEADING PUBLISHER OF EQUESTRIAN BOOKS & VIDEOS

With the change in the sport, you’re seeing really good cross-country riding, really

good show jumping riding, and really good

David O’connor.

“

dressage riding at the top levels..

eventing was conducted in other Olympic Games, but I 100-percent believe we need to stay in the Olympics— so this was what we came up with. I’m a believer in the Olympics. It has a big impact on the sport, a financial

Behind-the-scenes with those who dreamed of competing for their country and “made it.”

impact on the sport. And then there’s the emotional drive for a child getting into the sport. It’s had a huge impact on my life. I’ve been involved in the Olym­p ic process since I was 18, so I’m a little biased. If we have to make some adjustments, well, so have a lot of other sports.

And this mandate is only for the Olympics. It will still be teams of four for the World Champi­o nships, the European Championships, the Pan American Games, and the Nations Cups. Looking ahead, I think eventing will survive, absolutely. The interest in the human/ equine relationship is still very strong, and horses still make a difference in society. People look for games to play and peo­p le really enjoy this game. I do see the

THE ISABELL WERTH BIOGRAPHY The inside story of the most successful dressage rider in the world and the horses that have brought her to the top.

sport 30 years from now being here and riders around the world wanting to play it.

To read more from our top Team riders, purchase Riding for the Team by the United States Equestrian Team Foundation at HorseandRiderBooks.com.

VISIT TRAFALGAR SQUARE BOOKS

HorseandRiderBooks.com 800.423.4525 | NORTH POMFRET, VT

n a t ural e q u i n e

Photo: Erin Berkery.

Rebuilding Cruisetown – PART III

The Natural Connection, Inc. In my last two articles, I introduced my 17.2hh Irish Sport Horse, Cruise. I started out as a star struck horse owner, so excited to bring in a bigger horse with the potential talent to take me to the clinics that I dream of doing every winter— then reality set in.

28

While I established a BASELINE on Cruise, I discovered just

Upon arrival to the barn, catching Cruise may take as few

how complicated my new horse was and eventually came to the

as 5 minutes or as many as 30 minutes. During the grooming

self-made diagnosis of ulcers. We had 6 months of the “getting

process, I’d commonly get a back dip or cow kick when using

to know you” period and then the peeling the onion began.

a medium bristle brush on his back. I’d tack Cruise up and he’d

Three quarters into my first year of ownership of Cruise,

exhibit some ear pinning when the girth was tightened. I’d

after many frustrating under-saddle sessions, Cruise was

walk him to the arena and he’d spook by jumping to the side

essentially telling me he wasn’t well. In hindsight, it took too

or snorting at as many objects as he walked by. Once in the

long for me to decipher the difference between his personality,

arena, I’d warm him up, including putting him in a long and

his BASELINE (which has changed drastically over time), and his

low position, where (as seen in the previous article) he would

bad behavior, which turned out to be due to a medical problem

get behind the bit and evade contact. He’d also spook at any

and mental fear that manifested itself as training issues. On the

objects in the arena, with a spook ranging from a leap to the

other hand, I’m lucky to have peeled this onion correctly, on my

side or a spin and bolt. Doing transitions from gait to gait would

own. My guess is this horse suffered from ulcers for a long time.

be particularly exciting when accentuated by an unexpected

And what happens inadvertently is riders, just like myself, don’t

acceleration or bracing on the bit. When asked for a flying lead

“hear” the horse talking. I use the word talking as a metaphor

change, he often cross-fired or kicked out to get his leads. When

for humans speaking to other humans using simple positive or

I asked him to go through a jump course, he’d start bucking on

negative body language. For educational purposes, I’m coloring

the backside of a jump and/or refusing the jumps altogether.

the horse profanities (i.e. body language) so you get to see just

Then, when I thought Cruise was refusing the jumps because

how much I missed in our conversations. Here’s an example of a

I thought he was deliberately being bad, as taught, I’d use my

2-hour trip to the barn and the important body language that I

crop to help my leg ask for forward motion. Any strike with a

should have acknowledged:

crop resulted in a crow hop or a bolt. Then, he’d start balking

to my legs when I asked for additional forward motion. When I got upset at the balking, I’d maybe add more leg and stronger

Photos: Lauren Murphy.

hands, causing Cruise to rear like a circus pony. At the end—tired of fighting—I’d decide to do a trot set to end on a positive note, knowing that I’d accomplished absolutely nothing and feeling utterly defeated.

All of that red—the horse profanities—meant that Cruise’s brain was incapable of taking my cues and responding appropriately. He was suffering from sensory overload combined with pain in either his stomach or his hindgut. Overreaction, in as many ways as he could muster, was the primary answer to every question I asked. Essentially, there was no conversation going on at all from human to horse or horse to human.

So, ironically, now that I knew more about Cruise, I finally had ammunition. Ammunition means I had what I needed to make a plan to sort this whole thing out. What type of ammunition did I have? Well, using the information I’d gathered on Cruise’s needs through his BASELINE (see Jean’s article in our spring issue for more on BASELINEs), plus the information that he yelled at me while working under-saddle, I was able to create what I call a “whole-istic” training plan. A “whole-istic” training plan looks at the horse’s physical, emotional, medical, and educational needs, not always in that order. So now, I had information to fill in the gaps and the best part of Cruise’s journey could begin (although

2. Be sure that the time I spend with Cruise is away from

he probably disagreed at the time because there was a lot of

his herd and his home so that he’ll want to accept me as his

sweat and work involved).

leader and begin to trust me in unfamiliar environments.

How to address retraining Cruise with my “whole-istic”

• Physical Needs:

approach:

1. Groundwork should be done in every session; the amount

• Medical Needs:

of exercises will vary based on the day and Cruise’s emotional

1. Do a 30-day regimen of Ranitidine for hind gut ulcers.

state. The bare minimum of exercises includes disengaging

2. Put Cruise on 24/7 turnout so he can have forage as often

the hindquarters, backing up, flexions, disengaging the

as possible.

forequarters, and lunging.

3. Feed Tribute Ultra GH, a higher fat pelleted feed that

2. When under-saddle, be sure to warm Cruise up appropriately.

provides gastrointestinal support.

Do walking exercises for a minimum of 10 minutes, trot sets

4. Add Vitalize Good Gut Health supplement which assists in

that vary in time, and eventually canter sets. Canter sets should

digestion.

only be done if the trot is quiet and under control.

5. Add Cosequin supplement to assist with better movement

3. Variety of terrain will be important as Cruise builds muscle,

in his joints.

so the idea is to work in the round pen once a week, work in

6. Add Alfalfa pellets as a supplement to food AM and PM so

the arena 2 days a week, and workout on hills on the trails 2

that the alfalfa can act as a buffer in the stomach.

times a week. Body building should assist greatly in muscle

7. The back dip, cow kick, and ear pinning should subside as

weakness problems that could be contributing to the cross-

Cruise’s stomach feels better and his sensitivity level begins

firing and kick-outs happening during lead changes.

to lessen.

• Educational Needs:

• Emotional Needs:

1. The bolting and bucking could be the result of many different

1. Spend time with Cruise in between scheduled workouts

things. I took my chances and assumed that these two issues would

so he’ll want to be with me and we can create a stronger

go away on their own as Cruise’s stomach/hindgut felt better with

bond. This includes grazing time, grooming time, or simply

the treatment I was providing. I also knew that teaching Cruise

just going for an in-hand walk as often as possible.

the disengaging hindquarters exercise was a great way to off-

Photo: Lauren Murphy.

n a t ural e q u i n e

balance a horse that is known to buck and bolt.

2. The balking was not as common, but certainly needed to be addressed. The unexpected acceleration and bracing on the bit I felt would go away as I taught Cruise the onerein stop at all gaits. This exercise incorporates teaching the horse to flex, isolating the neck and head from the rest of the body, teaching the horse to listen to seat aids and soft rein aids one side at a time, as well as teaching the horse to have a good “gas pedal.” With repetition, a willing horse that listens to a squeeze with the legs will be less likely to balk and resist.

3. The spooking, leap to the side, and spin and bolt behavior could all be the result of ANY combination of things, including ulcers, as well as a lack of exposure to human and nature-made objects. Desensitizing, the a great way to help a horse become less spooky. A hot horse like Cruise with high spook level would benefit greatly from desensitizing at the beginning and end of every session. I wanted Cruise to start each session relaxed, work hard, then end each session relaxed.

4. Getting behind the bit was a result of a lack of knowledge, lack of hind end strength, and lack of work

“

A “whole-istic” training plan looks at the horse’s physical, emotional,

“

process of asking a horse to accept a stimulus calmly, is

medical, and educational needs, not always in that order. Jean French

ethic. I introduced Cruise to exercises called “Vertical Flexion at the Standstill” and “Draw to a Stop.” These exercises helped him learn how to be soft and to give at the poll in all gaits. The goal for this exercise was not

of Anderson’s program, Cruise should be capable of 13

to get the horse to be in perfect for, but to help create

groundwork exercises and 14 under-saddle exercises, at

softness.

all gaits, in an arena alone and in an arena with up to six other horses present. However, I never move Cruise on to 5. I praised Cruise very

the next task on the list unless he’d executed the current

often for good behavior

skillsets at a minimum of a B+ level, with an A+ being the

and

him

top standard of excellence. Having a high standard for

within three seconds for

the work ensured that Cruise was truly ready for more

unacceptable

behavior.

difficult skillsets, each one building off of the one before.

He eventually craved the

If the prior skillset is weak, the training foundation will

praise and became a much

buckle.

corrected

happier riding partner.

As by

Cruise

following

a specific discipline (dressage, show jumping, eventing,

the

etc.) after he’d fully completed this program—treating

Method”

him like a young horse because he’s basically being

Clinton

completely retrained as if he’d never been trained in the

Anderson (see Jean’s article

first place. That would ensure he had a solid foundation of

in our summer issue), I

knowledge before learning a discipline that may require a

expected

learn

lot more of his body and complicated puzzles for his mind.

more and more complex

Look forward to our winter issue for the last installment to

skillsets, building on those

Cruise’s story and Jean’s final thought’s on rehabilitating

listed above. By the end

the performance horse.

“Fundamentals created

30

I also decided that Cruise should only be moved into

improved

by

him

Photo: Lauren Murphy.

to

Catherine Zadeh 32

A d v er t or i al

Zadeh for Luxury

Every Minute of Everyday In a world of sameness and pretense luxury, Zadeh (pronounced Zah-Day) is a breath of fresh air. In a market of conformity, Zadeh stands apart as a distinct force of creativity, thriving at the intersection of art and fashion, and producing jewelry that’s impossible to ignore. Her designs, handcrafted mostly in New York, evoke a carefree nonchalance, a fluidity between formal and casual, masculine and feminine.

Born in Iran, raised in France, and settled

Her foray into the equestrian world actually

in New York, Catherine Zadeh fell in love with

started serendipitously with the help of her

and married her husband David who was in

daughter, Chloe. While sitting at the kitchen

the diamond business. Her focus in life was her

table, Chloe caught her mother in a bit of a

children, building a life with her family, and

creative rut and offered to help. A simple doodle

pursuing the American dream together. When

on Chloe’s paper, reminiscent of a stirrup,

she grew a little restless she began to design and

catalyzed the whole Hampton Collection named

make jewelry for herself.

after the place they summer. After her first foray

Her girls attended the 92nd St. Y nursery

at the Hampton Classic five years ago, Catherine’s

school, and one afternoon she met another parent

patrons encouraged her to attend the Winter

who complimented the jewelry she was wearing.

Equestrian Festival and other equestrian venues

Upon finding out that Catherine designed it

that attracted her audience. She obliged.

herself, he commissioned her to design a piece

Catherine’s craft is also influenced by her

for his wife, then another, and then a few pairs of

formative years in Paris, and she was inspired to

cuff links for himself. Ultimately, he suggested she

build on the equestrian aesthetic as portrayed by

should sell her jewelry in stores. From this kernel

Hermès, loving the way a single scarf worn with

of encouragement, Catherine decided to “start at

jeans and a t-shirt could exude such effortless chic.

the top”—Bergdorf Goodman was the first store

She also loves how equestrian attire is beautiful,

to welcome her.

functional, and exquisitely crafted. The concept of

Catherine’s entrance into commercial jewelry

well-made, simple, and timeless artisanship with

design was unique in that she was a woman who

a contemporary approach resonated deeply with

was designing only for men. She soon sensed there

her personal aesthetic and core values.

was a craving among women for this masculine

Effortless

and

unpretentious,

Catherine’s

and androgynous aesthetic that no designer was

precious yet rugged jewelry is meant to be worn

fulfilling. Her personal aesthetic is tomboyish and

every day. Her materials are not only aesthetically

full of subtle masculinity, so designing for them

beautiful, but also unique and durable. She boldly

was a natural fit.

pairs unexpected and unorthodox sustainable

33

A d v er t or i al

San Remo in leather, white and rose gold, and diamonds.

Delfina with Cali chain.

34

The Capri Stack features the Clou, Stitch, and Brant.

materials with precious metals to yield refined

withstand the rigorous lives of equestrian athletes

and elegant designs that defy the hands of

who know what it means to work hard, sweat,

time. The Brant, Catherine’s signature bracelet,

walk around with manure on their soles, and then

is made with discarded Asian water buffalo horn.

shower and head to a black tie dinner. With Zadeh,

The horn is painstakingly hand-sliced into very

they never have to think twice about changing

thin fibers, then intricately pieced together with

their jewelry for any of those transitions—Zadeh

simple gold accents. Exotic wood, vegetable ivory,

imbues the wearer with confidence, in breeches

and parachute cord are also interesting medium

and ball gowns.

for reinvented, luxurious designs. All of these

For her as for her patrons, Catherine believes

unexpected elements elevate Zadeh jewelry to

luxury has nothing to do with how much you

wearable art.

spend. It’s about living life well. “Lived-in”

Many of Catherine’s clients have traveled

luxury—that’s what Zadeh stands for. Catherine’s

widely and experienced the great cultures of the

jewelry is a physical manifestation of who she is:

world. Her patrons have a discerning eye and won’t

strong, distinct, and fearless—traits often found

settle for less than exceptional quality. Her pieces

in equine athletes.

d re s s age

By Olivia Lagoy-Weltz Photos by Carina Roselli

Running a High Performance Program Running a high performance program comes down to one thing and one thing alone: attention to detail.

While

that

might

seem

like

a

gross

correct body use and training for the horse go a long

oversimplification of the topic, attention to detail

way to keeping a horse sound and fit for a long time

and an eye to be ever improving—whether it’s in the

to come. While it’s important to get a horse trained,

barn, the training, the shoeing, the veterinary care,

making sure that the horse develops good fitness,

the turnout program, the feed, the hay, the bedding,

body strength, and thoroughness appropriate for

the footing, and on and on—it’s what makes the

each level along the way needs to be a big part of

difference. Both large and small programs have their

that education. Get out of the arena when possible.

benefits, and both can be run effectively. Our own

Going for hacks, even if it’s just at the walk, is great

program is 14 horses, which is modest by comparison

for the body and the brain (for both you and your

to many programs, but suits our current situation

horse). Don’t do the same thing every day. A 1.50m

and allows me to be very hands on with every horse

Jumper doesn’t jump that high every day in the same

and rider in the barn. In this article, we’ll go over

way we do not run a Grand Prix horse through the

some of the key things that lend themselves to a

Grand Prix test every day. Doing either is a great

well-run high performance program, big or small.

way to make your horse lame, sour, and to lose your basics. The art of working basics, no matter

Riding

36

your level, leads to a fit, strong, and not burnt out

Quality over quantity—fitness, basics, correct

horse. As I’m bringing a horse up, I’ll often have a

body use, and cross training are the main pillars of

canter day and a trot day, and I’ll choose one topic

any top program. Spending a lot of time on basic,

for the day, depending on where the horse is in their

training. Even if you’re stuck in the arena every

most important is that the stalls are safe, well-

day and can’t get out, what you do and how

bedded, have good air flow, reliable water that’s

much you do is really important.

easy to check, and that the horses are quiet and content in their stalls. When possible, we keep

The Barn A common theme among all of the good programs I’ve ever worked in is cleanliness in the

hay available to our horses so that there’s always something to nibble on (so long as they don’t gorge themselves).

barn and a lack of clutter. The first that thing I learned when I went to a top sales barn is Holland

Care

was how to sweep. I literally got a lesson on how

Attention to detail when it comes to horse

to sweep fast and effectively. There are all sorts

care is very important. Noticing early a small

of barn isle cleaning equipment from cordless

bit of heat in a leg, a pulse in a foot, or an

electric blowers, to vacuums, to good old

uncomfortable looking horse can sometimes

fashion brooms. Whatever the preferred method,

mean the difference between a few days off

keeping the barn isle clean and free of clutter

verses months off or even the difference between

is very important. This goes for the tack rooms,

life and death. Noticing and mentioning it to

bathrooms, laundry rooms, and feed rooms as

either your boss (if you work at the farm) or your

well. While there isn’t a direct line of correlation

vet, or even just making a mental note to watch

between a clean barn isle and Olympic medals,

the horse extra close for a few days, can make

every part of the picture plays a roll and a tidy

all the difference, but you have to notice it first.

well-organized barn is the starting place.

When you notice something, it’s also really

The barn of a high performance program is

important to know when to react and when not

typically well organized and uncluttered. This

to overreact. It can be easy to nitpick a horse

doesn’t mean that everything is or should be fancy

until you think they’re falling apart in front of

and shiny, or that the barn should look unused,

you, and that’s not productive. Finding the

but it does mean that everything should have a

middle ground is important, and the best way to

place, be in its place, and be out of the way. This

do that is to really know your horses well, which

is both important for safety and for discipline.

(ahem) takes attention to detail.

Horses are messy, the horse business is messy, so

Having a good working relationship with your

it takes discipline and a strong attention to detail

vet and your farrier is also really important. It

to maintain a clean and organized barn.

takes a team to get these horses to the highest

Regardless of how fancy the barn is, what’s

levels (and to keep them there). For me, it’s

d re s s age

to be treated like horses. Olivia Lagoy-Weltz

important to feel like my farrier and vet have a vested interest in the horses and the program, and that there is good communication between all of us.

“

“

I have come to feel strongly that our fancy horses still need

they have collected themselves and settled down.

I have come to feel strongly that our fancy horses still need to be treated like horses. Often, the more we bubble wrap them the more delicate they become, thus

Turnout

38

starting a downward cycle. I know that there are high

Most horses really like a reliable routine. Having a

performance programs that don’t believe in turnout and

consistent routine whenever possible leads to a quiet

don’t feel like it’s worth the risk, but in my experience,

barn and horses who are good in turnout. When I first

if turnout is done the right way it makes for very happy,

moved back east, I had to learn to turn horses out. I had

healthy, and sound horses. Still, horses who are in

worked a long time in Europe and none of the barns

turnout should always have an eye kept on them in some

that I worked at did really consistent turnout. There is

way shape or form.

definitely an art to turnout and being consistent and

Programs can be run effectively without turnout as

having a good order of go is really important. Also,

well, and this is definitely an area of personal choice,

having different sizes of turnouts can really help. We

especially with the advent of treadmills, water treadmills,

actually have a “timeout pen” that’s round (no corners

walkers, and even water walkers! While all these tools

to run up into) and has really good footing and is round

can be incredibly effective and helpful, people have

that we use when we have a horse that’s new to the

been producing top performing horses for quite a

program, or if we have one that’s learning to throw a

long time without them. Having said that, I am all for

tantrum anytime they would like to come in, we’ll put

anything that improves a horse’s wellbeing, fitness,

them in there (when appropriate) for a timeout until

and soundness. If you have access to these tools and

| EQuine America Magazine

they are beneficial to your horse, than that’s fantastic and you should use them. However, if you don’t have access to any of these tools, you can still produce a sound, fit, and happy top athlete.

It All Matters There are so many other areas where attention to detail makes a high performance program:

horse

nutrition

column),

(including

nutrition quality

maintenance,

(see

our

new

of

your

tack

cleaning,

and

repair), quality of your hay and shavings (beware of allergens), quality of your footing (type, depth, bounce), etc.—even how you personally present yourself to the world (show up to the show looking your best). I realize all these things seem very simple, and in fact they are—most good practices with horses stem from common sense—but can you think of other areas of your program where attention to detail might help you level-up?

C R O SS C O U NT R Y

By Rebecca Walton/Phelps Media Group

Photo by Rebecca Walton

Student Morgan McGrath

Boyd Martin Brings Cross Country to the ring

at Rutledge Farm Sessions

Having the tools to complete a successful cross country trip is essential for any aspiring eventing athlete. Olympian Boyd Martin is known for producing his bold horses that tackle any track at the world’s most challenging competitions.

Following

40

medal

at home so that, when the horses go cross country,

performance at the 2019 Pan American Games in

his

recent

double

gold

their mind and their thought process will be in the

Lima, Peru, Martin traveled to historic Middleburg,

right place.”

Virginia to teach a clinic as part of the Rutledge

The clinic began with flatwork focused on

Farm Sessions clinic series. Riders ranging from

keeping the horses fresh but balanced. Martin

Beginner Novice to Preliminary had the opportunity

wanted riders to balance their horses by simply

to focus on their cross country skills in an arena and

lifting their body, not putting pressure on the mouth.

under the watchful eye of the champion athlete.

Even in the warm-up, Martin encouraged riders to

“It’s very important as a clinician for me to

put their “foot on the accelerator,” because, as he

recognize the riders that are advanced and here

explained, “It’s better for the horses to be fresh and

to really pick something up, so I really decided to

wild early on.” He had riders practice going from a

try and push them along,” explained Martin. “The

big open stride to a short and balanced stride.

structure of the clinic is about how I train my horses

Martin continued, “You have to change your

at home—probably a little bit different to what the

teaching strategy a little bit with the greener horses

riders are used to, but it’s a system that works for

and greener riders—it’s important not to get too

me. It was basically sessions in getting the horses

gung-ho and rattle the confidence of the younger

thinking cross country exercises while in the ring

horses or greener riders. It’s important to train to

the degree of difficulty and to take a little bit more

practice not being so perfect; that’s what’s worked

time building up to the course.”

for me over the years. These exercises don’t give

After the flat warmup, groups moved on to a serpentine exercise over three verticals set in a line

the nicest feel, but once we get to the show it should be easy.”

off of the diagonal. The exercise was focused on

Martin continued, “If you want to be very

keeping the horses responsive, looking for the next

good at this sport then you’ve got to absolutely

fence, and thinking quickly. Once that was done

completely and utterly put yourself to this—don’t

well by each of the participants, they moved on

dabble in it and half do it. If you half do it, you’re

to an exercise that encouraged horses to focus on

never going to be able to compete against the

looking ahead. Three verticals were off-set in a

people that all they do is eat, sleep, and breathe

straight line, with one stride between each, and

horses. You’ve got to be understanding, you’ve got

the goal in mind to jump all three in a straight line

to be soft, and you’ve got to be sympathetic with

through the very narrow opening.

these green horses, but you have also got to be

Martin eventually added two wide oxers, four-

definite. Right from day one you have to say ‘I feed

strides apart, and a large triple bar that could

you when you’re hungry, I brush you when you’re

be galloped like a cross country fence. The final

dirty, and I warm you when you’re cold—you’ve

exercises were over a pair of corners around a

got to work for me for one hour a day. Twenty-

sharp corner. The exercise proved difficult for

three hours a day, I look after you, can you help me

many of the horse-rider combinations, but Martin

out for one hour?’ It’s a good deal and there’s no

worked closely with each pair to create an exercise

middle area—there’s no gray area.”

that they could execute correctly, telling riders that they had to go “over it, under it, or through it.”

Clinic participant Morgan McGrath said, “I think the biggest take away for me was to just sit

During the clinic, Martin acknowledged that

up and get it done, which on my other horse is a

each exercise was not necessarily easy or pretty.

lot easier. Because this horse is so strong, I’m so

He wanted to train the horses to think quickly, be

willing to say, ‘it’s a little hard, I’m not going to.’

ready for the unexpected, and in a split second see

But Boyd said ‘No, you need to sit up and do it—

a fence and figure it out.

it’s not like he can’t jump and it’s not like he’s not trained well.’ So that was a good take away for me and a reminder that it’s not pretty sometimes and

Martin. “For cross country, I think we have to

that’s okay.”

“

If you want to be very good at this sport then you’ve got to absolutely completely and utterly put yourself to this—don’t dabble in it and half do it.

Boyd Martin

Boyd Martin and Aleco Bravo-Greenberg

“

Photo by Rebecca Walton

“It’s different than a hunter/jumper exercise where you would do it until it’s perfect,” explained

41

Photo by Rebecca Walton

Boyd Martin and Student Autumn Rae

sentiment

riders at all levels and of all disciplines. The 2019

stating, “I thought it was great how he took a

Autumn

Rae

echoed

Rutledge Farm Sessions clinic series will continue

couple of exercises in here that all ask for different

with Will Simpson, Ali Brock, Phillip Dutton, and

things—different

Stacia Madden this fall.

canter,

a

similar

different

amount

of

accuracy —and then how he was able to give really

“It’s an absolute world class facility,” concluded

quick, specific instructions for each horse. I had

Martin. “We’re in the mecca of horse sports here

three horses here, so it’s interesting to get three

in Middleburg. It’s a real honor and privilege to

different perspectives on how to ride the different

come here. Knowing the clinicians from the other

horses. I also like how he says ‘You don’t have

top equestrian Olympic sports, it’s a real honor

to be perfect all the time; the horse needs to go

to be in the same bracket as Debbie McDonald,

over the jump no matter what.’ That was good to

Peter Wylde, and Phillip Dutton—to be regarded

hear repeatedly—out of a funny stride or even if

as one of the top riders in eventing to come along

something messy happened.”

to Rutledge Farm and be a part of this training

The Rutledge Farm Sessions brings exclusive opportunities

to

riders

and

everyone enough for inviting me. It’s a brilliant day

professionals in Middleburg, Virginia. Drawing

of training and a bit of fun and hopefully a bit of

from a pool of Olympic and International Champion

an inside look of how I go about training my horses

clinicians, Rutledge Farm offers monthly clinics for

at home.”

Photo by Rebecca Walton

educational

facility is a real honor and a privilege. I can’t thank

Spectacular equestrian artist Santi Serra will enchant the crowd with his remarkable liberty performances of horse, human, and dog.

Boyd Martin and students discussing the tunnel of jumps

co n v er s a t i o n Photos courtesy of Rebecca Smith

Introducing Rebecca Smith of

Rebecca Ray Designs EQuine AMerica Magazine: Let’s just start with, who are you and how did this all begin?

44

making these handbags.

In the beginning, I was using all vintage jewelry on them. They

Rebecca Smith: Let’s see. Who am I? Hmmm… I started the

really looked quite different than they do now. As I went along,

company in 1995, quite by accident. Sometimes those things

I realized that I just loved working with an equestrian vibe on

are the best ones meant to be. Isn’t it interesting when it’s

these bags. In the beginning, I really sewed everything myself

not what you do, but it suddenly presents itself, and

and most everything was soft goods. Then I won a national

you’re like, “I love this, and I’m actually pretty good at

search award from the magazine Country Living. It was

it,” unexpectedly? Yes, I had a career in nonprofit educational

funny… I remember I was lying in bed reading the magazine,

management, and I have a Master’s in education, but I also have

and I said to my husband who was half-asleep, “I’m going to

a really creative streak in me and I love art. I love doing all kinds of

enter this contest. It looks really interesting. They’re searching

things with vintage works and pieces and things like that. I love

for women entrepreneurs who are doing innovative things.”

to collect. I have a serious antique problem. I mostly collect things

He’s like, “That sounds good,” and he rolls over.

that are all animal oriented. That’s what I was just going to

After almost a year in process, they selected, I think, eight

ask, do you have some particular theme? I do. It’s mostly all

people and I was one of the eight. That really launched the

sporting art that I collect, and animal related. I love anything,

brand. Then we really had to start making some decisions about

from primitive to sometimes maybe even a little contemporary.

what it was going to look like, and what I was going to focus on.

I love American folk art. I also have a dish-collecting problem.

As we started selling more, I realized that I couldn’t keep making

Anyway, years ago, my husband and I had made a move

these in my basement until 2:00 in the morning. I had just started

to the west coast and I really didn’t know anybody out there,

doing the Atlanta Gift Show and I had a lot of orders. I have

except for my show dog friends, and it was hard because he

a background in education and program development training

was working really long hours. I had just left my job to make

kids to do vocational and apprenticeship work, so I thought,

that move, so I started concentrating on using the art, and

‘Why couldn’t I do something really creative with this and have a

the illustrative arts of antique horses and dogs, and I started

small workforce that’s more of a cottage industry?’

“

“

Rebecca Ray Designs has a timeless appeal with a trending look. rebecca smith

At this point we lived in Cleveland and we’re about

products, which they’re doing pretty much 80% to 90%

17 miles from the third largest Amish population in the

of the time, they’re making driving harnesses. For their

country. So, that’s how I ended up finding another woman

own use, or for sale? Publicly; they’re for sale. They’re

in that community who happens to have 13 children, and

harness makers by trade. In fact, the gentleman who is

who wanted to work from home, but is extremely talented

my lead person, his family has been in the driving collar-

and creative. She’s kind of my alter ego, except she had 13

making business for years. And, actually, we have his

children and I have one. She handles 13 really better than I

collars because my husband and I raise Percherons.

handle one. She started sewing for me about 16 years ago and she’s still sewing for me to this day. The Mary Ann bag,

What do you do with your Percherons?

which is one of our most popular bags, the one that says

We raise show Percherons now, but both my husband

“Fancy Blue Ribbon Horse Oats” on it, is named after her

and I started in hunters. When my daughter was little, she

(see our summer issue’s Divine Equine feature).

had a wonderful pony named Licorice who was a driving

To me, that just speaks of us as a brand—that the

pony. We just fell in love with this driving pony and we were

people who have been with us have mostly been with us

having such fun with that aspect of her that we ended

since the beginning. She still makes all of those bags on

up wanting heavy horses. My husband was hesitant…

the treadle sewing machine. She now has about 13 ladies

“You really want to raise Percherons?” he asked. I’ve

she can call upon to do additional bags and accessories.

always wanted to raise Percherons! Well, now he’s the

Her adult children, who are now mothers themselves, are

worst. We’re showing in two weeks, so he’s got us driving

sewing for her, along with other family members, extended

everybody and everybody’s in condition and on the work

family. It’s a real cottage industry.

program. My daughter and I are like, “You’re killing us.”

Mary Ann and her ladies only sew the soft goods.

That’s awesome, though! Maybe it’s corny to say, but

All of those other products are sewn by master harness

it’s a family affair and that’s always really nice. Very,

makers in eastern Pennsylvania. They’re all Amish too and

very, very much, and we’re very intent on that. We just

they’re all using hand tools to craft everything. You have

absolutely adore them. We have all gray mares. They’re

to almost see it to believe it. Those cuff bracelets with the

kind of like potato chips; they’re a very bad habit. We had

bits in them are about a 20 step process, and they’re all

two babies this year. Next year, we have two coming, so

cut out one-by-one by hand. The edges are done by hand.

we tend to have one or two a year.

Everything about it, there’s no mechanization to speak of

I cannot even tell you how much fun we are having with

except some of their machinery is air powered. They use

them. I mean, it’s amazing. It’s not easy, especially when

no electricity. When you look at a Rebecca Ray bag, every

you get into heavy horses because everything is supersized.

stitch was someone leaning over it, stitching it and making

Everything from our barn, to our trailers, to their

it perfect. Wow, that’s an image.

girths… everything is supersized, but we

I think a lot of that story for us, unfortunately, gets lost

just treat them like regular horses. We

in the noise of everything going on in the world today,

ride our drafts. Frankly they make

but I feel strongly that these are American arts and crafts

great riding horses, but the driving

that we’re losing. And when our guys aren’t making our

is just so fun. Of course, now

Mackenzie Large Leather Handbag (Cheval Collection) – This large leather handbag is bench-made in America and crafted from black bridle leather and black stitching, making for a stunningly sleek design. The Mackenzie also features nickel hardware and a twisted snaffle bit for a one-of-a-kind look, ($685.00).

45

co n v er s a t i o n

46

we have wagons and sleighs and all that kind of stuff… I mean, it’s become a storage issue for sure.

coaches and leatherwork were back then.

Well, that’s exactly how I started with the equestrian

Sorry, I digressed into Percherons. We’re having a ball

stuff, with the bridle rosettes. And the bridle rosettes were a

with them, and I know a lot about quality harness leather. I

status symbol. If you could afford to have a reverse painted

think it’s really interesting to reimagine all of our equestrian

crystal on your horse’s headstalls, you clearly were of an

equipment in useful handbags, totes, and accessories, and

affluent nature in the Victorian era. The more detail you

things like that. I think that the reason people appreciate us

had on your harness, the more beautiful it was, the more

is because we are authentically equestrian, so we’re going

adorned it was, the fancier your “car” was. And those

to use those pieces and parts in the way they’re supposed

are arts that we’re losing in time, because nobody needs

to be used, and all of our leather is premium bridle leather.

that stuff anymore. Yeah, but I’m with you that I don’t

Most of it is from the United States, not 100%, but most of

need to need it. I just want to appreciate it. That’s

it. It’s all responsibly tanned in a water-based facility. All of

right, it’s to be appreciated. I have a huge collection of

our trimmings, and fitting, and snaps, and clips, and all of

antique bridle rosettes. In fact, we’re very well known for

the parts are all equestrian grade. Our totes and handbags

our reproduction bridle rosettes. We still use those, but the

feel so good to the hands because they’re the real deal.

bags really evolved to a much more sophisticated product

I think our equestrian clients appreciate that, and I think

than we were doing in the beginning.

the non-equestrian clients want to have a piece of that lifestyle, and this provides some of that.

We’ve grown so much. Our distribution now is all out of Lexington, which I think is really fun being that it’s the

And there’s an art to discovering trends and figuring

horse capital of the world. We were named to Oprah’s

out what’s trending before it’s trending, which is lots of fun,

prestigious Made in America List in O Magazine. Actually,

too. I go to the grocery store, and sometimes I find I’m

we’ve been named twice now. Wow! Congratulations,

looking at handbags more than I’m looking at groceries.

that’s no small thing! Thank you. That’s been really

“Oh, what are they wearing? Oh, where did that come

good for us, and important to us, that other social media

from?” But I think I draw a lot of inspiration from interior

and arbitrators of taste can appreciate what we’re trying

design and historical design, and historical harnesses,

to do. So, thank you for doing that. It’s important to

too. I think it’s fascinating because, after all, harness used

me to bring American makers and their products

to be an expression of artistic nature before we had cars.

to our readership. I want to make sure everyone

If you think about it, what car you choose to drive is an

knows you’re out there and you’re All American!

aesthetic expression. Some people are very interested in

Are bags are 100% American made. I go and spend a

cars and the aesthetics of cars. Well, harness used to be

couple days every quarter with our harness makers, who by

that aesthetic. I just recently learned that harnesses

the way, some of them are women. Literally, my team and I

and coaches used to be decorated like that. I was

roll out a piece of leather, an entire hide in front of us, and

looking at a jewelry designer who works with

then we stand there and say, “Alright, how are we going

the metal that used to be the adornment for the

to make this bag?” I do all the drawing, but often things

harnesses. I didn’t realize quite how expressionistic

drawn two-dimensionally don’t at all portray what they’re 47

co n v er s a t i o n

“

“

When you look at a Rebecca Ray bag, every stitch has someone leaning over it, stitching it and making it perfect. rebecca smith

going to look like in three-dimensions. So, there is kind of

round tables, and the community development—all that.

an art to that. Then we do all the sourcing and all that kind

Everybody along the way was like, “Yeah, no. Can’t hook

of stuff before we hand it to these men and women and

you up with anybody. Sorry. Whatever.” And I finally was

say, “Alright, how will we build this, and how will it speak

tired with that, and my husband, who is a very opposite

to our brand’s DNA?” That’s an interesting way to put

side of the brain from me and is a University of Chicago

it. “Your brand’s DNA”—I love that.

MBA grad, he’s said, “You have to have a really serious supply chain with this. You cannot do this yourself.”

By the way, why is it called Rebecca Ray?

So, one day, out of total exasperation, an Amish carpenter

That’s a really good question. Because, my first name is

we know was working on the house, and I looked at him and

Rebecca and my maiden initials spell RAY, and my father’s

I said, “Do you know anybody in your community that likes to

first name is Ray, and he has always encouraged me to

sew?” And he said, “Well, my wife likes to sew.” And I was like

own my own business and be my own person, so it’s kind

‘open my mouth, insert foot’ asking him, “Does she sew well?”

of fitting. He likes to remind me sometimes. He’ll have an

And he said, “She sews all of our clothes.” And I was just, ‘Oh,

idea, and I’m like, “Oh, Dad, that’s a great idea.” And he’s

Rebecca…’ But then the two of them have really given me

like, “I’m also the Ray in Rebecca Ray”

great access to the community, and we count them among our friends. I mean, it’s more than a business relationship. We’ve

What made you transition from your original designs to

gone to weddings. We’ve gone to funerals. We usually see them

these more traditional leather-based designs?

or do something over the holiday. Our children have grown

Well, I think I realized that style changes. When I started,

up together, which to me is extremely interesting because

I was using fabulous home décor fabrics and mixing very

they understand and appreciate each other’s cultures. I

whimsical patterns, but I wanted more leather. I just didn’t

think it’s just been a real learning opportunity for everyone

know how to get there. And I never knew I was going to

involved. I think that’s fantastic that the kids know each

have the good fortune to start raising Percherons and start

other and they understand and appreciate each other.

understanding leather and harness, and then be fortunate

They do. When I go to Pennsylvania, my daughter usually

enough to meet and foster a long-term relationship with the

wants to go because she’s been pen paling those kids. They

harness makers that I have. It’s not an easy community to get

write back and forth, and they look forward to seeing each

to know. It’s not that they don’t want to know us, but you

other. Another lost art. Another lost art.

have to really seek out their assistance.

Where do you source your leather from?

So, how did you break in to connect with them?

48

We source our leather mostly from the west coast. Some

I actually had an Amish gentleman doing some

of it comes from the east, but mostly from the west coast.

carpentry for me. And this is the funniest thing. I had

It’s just plain old bridle leather. It’s nothing fancy. We do get

tried everything. I had tried going through the business

into some pebbles or what they call “Granada” leather, stuff

co n v er s a t i o n

like that. I personally love embossed leather. I think it’s

a black blazer and I’m good to go. It’s all about the jewelry and

really, really pretty. I do, too. I’m starting to really play with

the purse and the shoes on your feet. And you can wear a pair

it. And people are embossing it in the neatest patterns. Do

of jeans and a white shirt forever, and you can look different

you always use cow? Yes, I haven’t dabbled in anything else.

every single day. I think that’s classic. And I think that’s

The problem being that when you get into goat, or lamb, or

true of your line, as well—a lot of it’s timeless. Online

even pig skin, it’s very soft and it doesn’t hold up as well as

I found some models that you don’t carry anymore and

cow leather. I was wondering about buffalo. I have very

I was thinking, “I would still love that!” I know, and that

textured buffalo for the flaps on my Custom saddle and

frustrates me too, because everybody is always talking about

I just love the way that looks. You know, we should look

“newness” and I’m thinking ‘But that looked really good five

at that, because I know exactly what you’re talking about. I

years ago, and it still looks really good.’ It must be very hard

haven’t even thought about that. That would be really, really

to choose what lines live and die. It is. It is.

pretty. That’s not a bad idea. Buffalo could hold up for us.

I would also love to be making smaller things, but our guys

really cool things. When I started, there weren’t nearly as many.

do not have the technology to do it in an affordable way

I think this whole space has evolved, and I think that equestrian

for us. So, that’s one area where I want to see us grow. I

inspired anything just remains extremely strong. I don’t know

would love to get into some wallets and things like that. I’m

what the phenomenon is. I just don’t think it will ever go out

working on it. And we’re also extending our jewelry line,

of style, truthfully. Everyone loves that classic equestrian look.

too. Into anything in particular? I’m starting to source new bracelets and new belts, too.

50

It’s funny, because there are so many people doing so many

It’s interesting, because one of the articles in the summer issue was about how Der Dau teamed up with

I’m constantly trying to reinvent, because truly there’s very

the EQUUS foundation, which is a charity foundation

little that’s new in fashion. It’s just a reinterpretation. I was

whose sole purpose is basically to protect America’s

having to explain high-waisted pants to my husband

horses, which is pretty cool. They teamed up to create

last night and he said, “I do not like them,” which I

a vegan leather riding boot. Interesting. They told me

duly noted. It’s not easy to wear them well, and you know, I

how difficult it was to find the right materials to make

think that the other thing about handbags and accessories—

it look and function the same as a traditional boot,

everybody can wear handbags and accessories. They’re not

and how tradition in general is such a strong factor in

just for the person with the perfect figure. Anybody can

the equestrian sphere. It totally, totally is. You can push

have a beautiful handbag. So, I like that part of it, too. And

contemporary edging a little bit, but there’s a place where you

truthfully, I know it sounds trite, but a girl can never have too

just go too far and people are like, “Hmm, I don’t think so.”

many shoes or handbags. I agree. And you know what’s

Yeah, people balk. Right. Exactly. I guess that’s why we always

nice about handbags? They don’t hurt your feet.

look so traditional is because, well, I am pretty traditional. Like

I find my wardrobe is usually boring. I wear a lot of black and

you said, a white T-shirt and jeans, there’s nothing more classic

white and neutral. I am very much a jeans and white T-shirt

than that. So, that’s what we always say: “We’re very traditional

person, myself. Give me jeans and a white button down with

with a timeless appeal, but a trending look.” That’s actually

brilliant. “A timeless appeal with a trending look.”

parcel is about 35 acres. That’s a pretty good size. Yeah,

That’s a catchphrase if I ever heard one. You can quote

especially considering we’re sitting right in Chagrin

me on that.

Falls, Ohio where there are no parcels like this left. It’s

Really, that’s a lot of what we’re about—that classic

close to town, but the place had not been lived in for

“style of the sporting life.” I actually have that in many

12 years. And we had to build our barn facility because

aspects. I raise dogs that are working dogs, well they’re

the old barn that was here was built for Arabians.

really sporting dogs, but they have a job and they know

Being petite horses, their barn was very small and very

what their job is. And you get all the equipment that goes

low, so every time our girls went out dressed to drive,

with it and that is all sporting lifestyle. Do you actually

they knocked out all the light bulbs. We took that barn

hunt your dogs? Occasionally, but my dogs typically

and turned it into a summer home for my parents,

spend their careers in the show ring. I raise English Setters,

which was also cool because we kept all the barn floors

and my family has been raising them for about 60 years

and everything.

now. My mother is an international show dog judge, and

Once we got everything else here finished, we finally

my grandmother was too. So, I raise the dogs now. I don’t

tackled the house this summer. We’ve been here now for

have very many. I have six at home right now, but I have

almost nine years. I’ve always wanted to take over an

dogs all over the world. I want those dogs to be able to go

old house and redo it. Careful what you wish for! Well,

out and hunt and do their job, what they were bred for,

yeah. Honestly, I know it will never happen because

and I have lots of dogs that do go to people who avidly

my husband is the complete opposite. It nearly killed us,

hunt them.

but it was fun. Inspiring, you know?

So tell me about your amazing house… I saw

which I never thought I would live in because I was

gorgeous photos online.

raised to believe they were the devil. Right. My

I live in a newly built home in a development,

We had an event here with a fox hunting group back

husband is from Philadelphia… He never set foot on

in 2014, and Horse & Style covered it. Traditional Home

a farm until he met me, so it’s all new construction

did a feature as well. Yes, that’s what I saw. That was

with him. Our next house will be another new build.

probably the last time anybody’s been here. In the interim,

Well, ours might as well have been a new build. It feels like

we completely renovated our house, down to the studs. We

a brand new house. But it has the beautiful old bones.

just got in about three months ago. Wow. It looked so

It has all the old bones, and we kept it very authentic. It’s

nice before, I can’t imagine. Oh, you have no idea. This

a historic home from a very famous architect, and it’s just a

house hadn’t really been touched since 1921. Traditional

farmhouse. The same architect built the Cleveland Museum

Home did a lot of photo shopping. I asked, “What are

of Art, and the West Side Market—all the major landmarks

you going to do with the cracks in the wall?” They’re like,

in Cleveland.

“Don’t worry.” But now, it’s really special. I really culled and

It would be fun for you to come and take some pictures

cultivated my art collection, and I just love how the house

of the farm and the animals. You can take pictures of us

looks right now.

driving. Do you dress your girls up for the holidays?

Yes. Then I’ll see you then!

How many acres do you have?

We actually just sold off some property, but our entire

Look for a special holiday photo spread of Rebecca and her gray girls in the winter issue of EQuine AMerica.

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51

C O NV E R S A TI O N

Photo: Adobe Stock

A Conversation with World-class Course Designer

Derek di Grazia The Brain Behind Tokyo 2020’s Cross Country Course

I know that you’re a competitor as well as a designer. So how

This may be a loaded question, but which do you enjoy doing

long have you been competing and how long have you been

more, riding or designing?

designing?

I’ve been competing since 1968 and I’ve been formally designing courses since 1986.

Actually I enjoy both of them. I’ve been doing them both for a long time obviously, and I still like to ride and compete.

I really do enjoy that, but course design takes up quite a lot of my time just because of the travel and being present for the

Are there advantages or disadvantages to being both a rider

courses I’ve designed, so I don’t have as much time as I used to

and a course designer?

for competing, but I still do it.

To me, I think it’s an advantage. I’ve always felt that

52

way because I think it helps me understand what the horses

If you had to choose a favorite course that you’ve ridden and

are apt to do under different circumstances on course. By

a favorite course that you’ve designed, what would they be?

being a course designer, you understand the relationships

That’s a very hard question! As far as the course, I actually

from one jump to another, and as a rider you understand

have more than one favorite because each one is different;

how it feels to ride over different types of terrain. There

they’re all in different locations with different types of

are probably many, many other things I can’t even think of

terrain, and they each are special in their own way. So, I

right now that I gain by being a rider and a designer. To me

can’t say that there’s one over another, and that’s actually

it makes a big difference.

why I enjoy it so much because there is such a variety. I

think that’s what makes designing quite interesting.

“

“

I always say you never stop learning when you’re teaching and training and dealing with horses. derek di grazia

there. I don’t know that anybody could come and do

Favorite course that I’ve ridden… Competing at

that the same way in today’s world. So, you learn a lot

Kentucky was very exciting, and I think probably one of

along the way and you keep learning. I’m still learning

my most memorable experiences. I rode there quite a

today; you never stop learning in this business. I always

few times, and the time that I was able to win was very

say you never stop learning when you’re teaching and

special for me.

training and dealing with horses. It’s an ongoing process that goes on for a long time—for forever as far as I’m

And then what was it like to go back and design there?

concerned.

This year [2019] was my ninth year designing at the Kentucky Horse Park. It’s quite an honor to be able

Do you have a particular mentor that brought you

to design at the Horse Park, especially since the Park’s

along in your career?

changed so much over the years and it’s quite a fancy

There are always people helping me along the way.

place now. They have so many different things going

Even still today, if I ever have a question about something,

on there, and the facilities are amazing. From a course

I can always talk with them about it. And I think that,

design standpoint there are many different features and

especially within the course design community, there are

different ways to use the terrain, it’s quite a pleasure.

designers out there who are very interested in talking about course design and issues that come up as the

Given that one of the main things you like about course

years go by and the sport develops. I think that’s always

design is how many different variables there are at

great.

different locations, what is it like to design at the same

Initially, when I first started, Captain Mark Phillips

location over and over again, having to keep making it

was very (and still is very) helpful to me. To this day

different and challenging in new and different ways?

we still discuss a lot of things regarding course design

Well, actually that’s another fun part of it because

and I think he’s a great mind as far as that’s concerned.

every year I do it I have to think about it as a blank slate.

So he’s been very helpful to me. And of course when

Trying to make it into a different competition every year

I was making my way into my position in Kentucky,

is like putting a new puzzle together.

Mike Etherington-Smith was very helpful to me. And he’s another designer that I feel is a great one to discuss

What did it take for you to transition from being a

things with. I also love to go around and look at other

competitor to being a designer? Meaning, if someone

courses that other designers created, and I just try to

wanted to do that, what would you recommend they

learn from what they’re doing. I think you can find a lot

do?

of help in a lot of places along the way in this business.

Well, actually back when I did it, it was probably quite a lot easier than it is now because now we’ve developed

Are you paying it forward in terms of stewardship of

licensing programs to license course designers, so you

this career? Are there people that you are helping to

have to go through more of a process to become a

bring along right now?

course designer than when I started. Back when I did it,

I try—I try. I think we have to be doing that. We

I’d get a call from someone asking me to come design

have to be doing it all along because we need more

a course and I went and designed the course, and then

designers. I guess I consider myself one of those ones

one thing led to another and I got another course and

that are at the top, and eventually we’re all going to age

another course.

out of the sport so we have to make sure that there are

Eventually, I had to get an FEI license, which I was

course designers coming along who are going to be able

able to do, and then I just sort of kept going from

to take over from what all of the other course designers 53

C O NV E R S A TI O N Photo: Adobe Stock

“

I’m hoping that we’ll get riders more involved and interested in becoming official course designers. derek di grazia

“

are currently doing.

part of it), it’s about how you feel, how the ground works,

I think, as a sport, we have to find a way to get riders

how the horse will feel at different parts of the course, and

involved in course design, and this is not something new—

where you need to ask certain things. And that’s where

we’ve been trying to do this for years—but I think what

having been a rider becomes very useful because they both

happens is that riders get sort of consumed with their careers

sort of work together, the feel and the numbers.

because they’re competing, and I don’t blame them… It’s a fun sport! It’s the same with any discipline, whether it’s

It seems to me that each designer has sort of their own

dressage or whether it’s show jumping, riders understandably

style, their own individual way of designing. How

want to have their careers as a rider. And of course it does

would you describe yours?

take time to become, and then to be, a course designer. But,

I’d say that I like to use the terrain because I think that

I’m hoping that we’ll get riders more involved and interested

you can make the jumps more interesting if you use the

in becoming official course designers. Hopefully some will be

terrain that’s naturally available. I like galloping courses. I like

able to come up through the ranks and be our next upper-

to develop a good flow; I think that’s important. And then

level course designers.

it’s a matter of putting out fair questions that are safe and at the same time educational and different so that you’re

Are there cross-country course designers who were

not always asking the same questions. I’m trying to develop

never riders?

horses and riders with exercises that are appropriate for the

I think most course designers were at least riders at one

level that they are competing at. At the highest levels, I am

point. Actually, part of the licensing within the US Federation

apt to test the rider’s ability and the horse’s training. I’d like

is that, depending on the license you’re trying to acquire,

to think that, at all the levels I’m designing, something is

you have to have ridden over a certain level. So that’s just

being learned.

part of it. I suppose that sounded like a silly question, I was thinking that being a course designer is a lot like being a

54

For you, how much of it is education versus testing?

civil engineer, so I wondered if it could be successfully

To me, most of it is education. Even at the highest level I

accomplished without having a lot of riding experience. Well,

still aim to educate, even though they say that at the current

as I said, being a competitive rider and a designer has been a

5* level it’s more of a test. But, I think that even at that

great advantage for me. Course designing is a lot about feel.

level they’re still learning. That’s just the way it is. Are there

It’s not so much about the numbers (though the numbers are

certain elements you put in, maybe specific questions

Photo: Kim Russell - US Equestrian

Derek measures out a question on course.

Photo: Kim Russell - US Equestrian

Derek di Grazia, cross country course designer for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Photo: courtesy of the di Grazia Family

Derek with his wife and fellow eventer, Bea di Grazia.

where one is to test and one is to educate? To me, I

To submit your bid, do you have to show them what

always think about the education first. So whatever I’m

you would like to do? Do you send them a proposed

putting on the course is going to have an educational

design? Or is it based on your past design history?

element to it.

Well, each bid process is a bit different, and in this case they wanted us to take a map of the area and

Since you’ve been doing this for so long, would you say

basically show them a proposed course on paper, as

that course design has changed or evolved from say 10

far as the track and how we would use that piece of

or 20 years ago versus today?

property, not having ever seen it. They did invite us to

I would have to say that it probably has changed

come see the property if we wanted to, but I didn’t go.

just because I think changes in the dressage and show

I did the map and went through the exercise; I just did

jumping events have started to ask more of the horse

what they asked.

and rider. They’re basically asking the horses to be more

We had to decide on a track and illustrate where

schooled and more educated within those disciplines,

we’d position jumps on that track, but I don’t think we

so in turn, I think that the courses have become more

had to put down what the actual jumps were. And then

elevated and the riders need to be more educated in how

it was quite funny because, when you actually get there

they approach riding cross country.

and see what the site looks like, you look at what you put on paper and think, ‘Well that would never happen

When did you find out that you were selected to design

here!’

the cross country course for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics?

I think it was February of 2017. And I read in an

When you first found out the committee selected you

interview that you did with US Equestrian in April

as course designer, what were the first things you did?

of 2017 that you had already started working on

Well, quite literally I went on my first visit to Tokyo

the design. So even with three years to plan it, you

to see the site for the first time. That’s the first thing you

started working on the design right away?

want to do so you can see what you’re dealing with.

Yes, we started right away. I think I went to Tokyo for my first site visit in March of 2017.

I arrived and first we had a big meeting, and there were more people in there than I can even tell you, but everybody had a job and they were all involved so it was

Why do you think they chose you?

good to be able to do that. From there we all went

I don’t know! It’s the fourth Olympics I’ve bid for, so

on a tour of the site and looked at what there was

maybe I just hung around long enough. The bid process

to work with. The cross country is in a different

is such that they typically send an offer to bid to four or

location than where the dressage and show jumping

five designers in the world, but I don’t know how they

will be; it’s situated on an island that overlooks

come up with the list.

the harbor and Tokyo Bay. You can look right 55

Photo: Sherry Steward

C O NV E R S A TI O N Photo: Reuters/Tony Gentile

Derek is still an avid competitor. into downtown Tokyo, so it’s going to be amazing.

So how did/does the process unfold?

I think the biggest thing for me to do was to look at the

The track was laid out and then from there the

length of the course, which is 5,700 meters, and try to

site went through several different phases. We had to

figure out how to design it to meet the specifications.

clear quite a lot of trees from where we wanted to lay

So that was my first mission: to see how I could make

the track. The trees had to be relocated, and they did

the length of the track work. Is that time limit or track

relocate them—they transplanted all the trees.

length longer or shorter than average? That’s close to what’s been done in the last few Olympics. Now it

Wow, I applaud their environmental consciousness!

seems they want it to be right around 10 minutes, when

Then we created the track and had to get the

in the past it could have been a bit longer.

grading correct. There are always drainage issues and other obstacles that we had to find solutions for, and

Once selected, do you join a team or do you bring

we found solutions for pretty much everything. Course

a team of your own people with you?

Builder, David Evans (England), and his team came to the

No, for course design, I’m the team. [laughs]

course and built the permanent features and oversaw the track development. The various local contractors did

56

So you get inserted into the team of developers as

the final grade work, laid all the subsoil, the turf, all

the designer?

the irrigation, and then put all the grass and the water

Yes, I was the one that was brought into a development

jumps in. Then we were just in that phase of letting the

team to design the course, so I had to come up with the

grass grow and getting our test event course ready for

track and show them where we were going with it.

the summer.

At what point did you design the full Olympic course?

Australia, and then the Japanese had riders as well.

The track was designed in the first six months, or the

It was actually a good turnout. There were very

first two visits really. But, while the grass is growing, we

high profile riders, a bunch that came were very

sort of continue to play around with the Olympic course;

experienced riders like Michael Jung (Germany) and

even though most of it’s designed, we’re still making little

Andrew Hoy (Australia). There were, I believe, five

changes here and there. Overall we’re in a good place at

top Japanese riders as well. I think it was good for

this point. We never know what’s going to happen along

all the riders, as well as all the national federations

the way, but it’s all moving forward so it’s all good. Now

that attended, which there were quite a number

it’s just building and installing the jumps, and to me that’s

[including the US].

the fun part. I’ll go back over to Tokyo in November and we’ll start building the actual course, and that process

Has this been the most challenging and exciting course

will probably go on until March, but I won’t stay there

you’ve ever designed?

the whole time.

I’d say it was a challenge initially, given a piece of ground that was not that large that had never been used

When do you expect the Olympic course will be fully

for a cross country course before. There were things that

completed?

we had to overcome to make it into what it is today, but

Probably the end of July next year. It only needs to be

that’s the exciting thing about it. It is truly exciting to

finished the day before the Ground Jury inspects the course.

see the development of it as we’ve gone along. And the people that I’ve been working with have been great; they

You mentioned a test event. What is that exactly?

Typically, most championships always have a test

have really gone above and beyond to try to do what we want to do.

event the year before to test your systems and the personnel, and to run over the ground that you’re using.

Are there issues with language barriers or anything like

You don’t test run over the same track; you just run on

that?

the same ground that’s been prepared, so we can see

There are translators. I would say that quite a lot of

how the footing we installed holds up and how it reacts

people that I work with do speak some degree of English,

to the horses galloping and jumping on that surface.

which is obviously very helpful, but there are always

The test event also tests the personnel, which is a

translators there if you need them.

good thing to do a year in advance to make sure key personnel understand how things are going to run,

Are you designing other courses while you work on

including testing the timing and media infrastructure.

Tokyo’s course?

Administratively, it gets all the people that are going to be working next year in tune with what actually goes on

Yes. I have a number of events that I do during the year. And they all take a certain amount of time.

during a cross country day. We had a lot of volunteers come to the test event, to become familiar with what goes on. The test gives everyone a little bit of comfort before going into the Olympic year.

How many courses are you working on right now?

I actually couldn’t tell you. I haven’t really sat down and counted them… a lot. But it’s actually not even so much the number of competitions, it’s the level that

What riders can ride the test event?

Test events are open for countries to send their own

they’re at because the higher the level the more time they take to design.

horse and rider combinations; if they want to do that, they can do that. Otherwise, the host nation will usually

Once the Olympic course is finished, will you run a

have some national riders come ride it. You don’t need

test ride to check it?

huge numbers; you just need enough riders to make sure everything works.

No, we don’t. But, in my experience in past games, they don’t actually run a test to jump the jumps, but they will run a test to simulate the actual cross country day.

Who came out to ride the test?

We had riders from Great Britain, Germany, and

Whether or not they’re doing that this time around, I’m not quite sure.

57

Photo: Adobe Stock

C O NV E R S A TI O N Photo: Reuters/Tony Gentile

“

“

You’re always going to have some degree of risk; whenever you get on top of a horse, there’s always a degree of risk. derek di grazia

What do you actually do on cross country day?

questions asked on course are safe on every level. It’s a huge

Well we have to make sure that nothing has changed

part of everything we do—everything that I do. You always

with the course. So over the days leading up to the

put safety top, top, top when you’re designing, from the

competition, we have to make our final checks. Then, if

way you set up the track to the jumps you design to the

there is rain, we want to ensure that the footing is going

approaches, everything that we do—safety is always a big

to hold. If not, we have to make preparations to be able

part of the equation. It has been for quite a long time, I just

to guarantee the footing will hold up throughout the day.

think it’s a much more publicized these days.

Other than that, we basically just watch. If anything needs attending to during the day, we deal with it. We have quite

What are some safety features you incorporate in your

a good crew that’s going to be there on the day, so we can

courses?

take care of anything that might happen.

First, we improve the footing to make it safer for the horses. Frangible pins have been used for years now, which

And then when it’s all over, do you just fold up and leave?

When it’s over it’s over. Everything gets packed up and put away—and that’s that.

basically, if you hit a rail hard enough, the jump falls down.

Frangible pins release under vertical force. An engineer recently created a device called a “MIM Clip” that allows jumps to give way under horizontal force, which will help

Wow! So much work for such a short event. That’s

prevent a rotational fall. There have been a number of

incredible.

studies on the motion and forces involved in collapsing both

Sort of, I guess the same can be said about any

these devices.

competition at that level. You put the competition on for

Those are our two main devices right now, but I think

a few hours and then you’re done. You’ve prepared years

there’s been more and more testing of them to see how they

for that.

can be used in different situations. There are always people trying to develop new safety devices that will be able to be

58

On another note…

used to help make the sport safer. Engineers get involved

With recent injuries and fatalities on cross country courses,

because they understand a lot more of the science of how

the issue of safety has really come to the forefront of every

things work, and you can say how you want something to

conversation. Do you have any thoughts you’d like to share

work and then they start scratching their heads and come

about that?

up with something.

It has always been important, but it’s definitely taking

Bottom line though, you can’t say you’re going to make

center stage now because there’s a lot more publicity about

something a hundred percent safe because that’s just not

it. Course designers are making a great effort to ensure the

the world we live in.

Thermal Thermal Thermal I T ’S O K AY, W E C A L L I T T H AT TO O .

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COME SEE WHY THE WEST COAST IS THE BEST COAST #seeyouinthedesert COME SEE WHY THE WEST COAST IS THE BEST COAST COME SEE WHY THE WEST COAST IS THE BEST COAST #seeyouinthedesert #seeyouinthedesert

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Photo: Stefano Grasso/LGCT

Kent Farrington on Creedance.

p i c t or i al

By Jump Media and Carina Roselli

Longines Global Champions Tour

New York

Kent Farrington and Creedance Fly the Flag at Close of “Amazing” Longines Global Champions Tour.

On September 29th, as the sun set behind

“That’s always great! I’m just back in America

the Statue of Liberty and “The Star-Spangled

now because I’ve been gone all summer, so

Banner”

and

it’s a great way to welcome me home with

Creedance flew the flag for the United States

two wins on home turf. Creedance is a great

of America in the closing 5* thriller in New

horse, and his owners are from Connecticut so

York.

they’re close by and they got to see him win

rang

out,

Kent

Farrington

The American champion’s win was a fitting

here at home.”

climax to the sensational inaugural Longines

Kent Farrington (USA) took the win ahead

Global Champions Tour (LGCT) and Global

of Pieter Devos (BEL) with Espoir and Harrie

Champions League (GCL) Finals on Governors

Smolders

Island, New York. Kent said of the event, “[It’s

Bloomberg (USA) set local hearts racing after

an] amazing setting, one of the best shows

she finished fourth with her 10-year-old

they’ve had this year and a great finale to the

gelding Chameur 137.

Tour—great week, amazing competition, top riders, top horses—you can’t ask for more.”

(NED)

aboard

Cas

2.

Georgina

The New York stage of the team and individual

championships

saw

Ben

Maher

Determined to be back for next year’s

crowned LGCT Champion for the second year

LGCT of New York he added, “I brought two

in a row, and the London Knights, including

amazing horses here—I thought they were

Maher,

good contenders. I was very happy Creedance

Bloomberg, Donna Karan, Christy Turlington,

was able to win two. I would have liked to get

and Longines Ambassador of Elegance Andre

the Grand Prix also, but I’ll be back next year

Agassi were among the guests in New York.

for that.”

winning

the

GCL

Final.

Michael

After three days of top sport, entertainment,

When asked how it feels to bring home

and perfect weather, the crowds and guests

a double-win for the USA during this first-

left the showground to the iconic music of

ever New York leg of the series, Kent replied,

Frank Sinatra’s New York, New York.

61

p i c t or i al Photos By Carina Roselli

Jessica Springsteen on RMF Swinny du Parc.

Georgina Bloomberg on Chameur 137.

Molly Ashe Cawley on Adamo.

Kent Farrington on Austria 2.

CSI2* Grand Prix winner Exotik Sitte with Coco Fath onboard.

Georgina Bloomberg and one of her youngest fans, heir to Top Jock Tack Boxes, Alison Moran (daughter of Joseph Moran).

Photo: Carina Roselli

Kristen Vanderveen on Bull Run’s Faustino de Tili.

63

V E T E R IN A R Y

EQUINE TELEHEALTH:

It’s Just Beginning By. Dr. G. Robert Grisel, DVM Equine telehealth is coming and will indubitably be a valuable resource in our industry, both for horse owners and equine professionals. But how do we go about optimizing it’s implementation?

In order for the practice of remote equine veterinary

equine professionals wanting to express their personal

medicine to work, two things must happen:

opinions with respect to appropriate treatment strategies

1. Equestrians (the horse owner and/or trainer) must

will have posted several others. The vast majority of videos

get what they want with respect to instant professional

listed under this key phrase, however, were posted by

guidance, and

equestrians (mostly horse owners) with the intention of

2. Veterinary professionals must be able to provide medical

seeking guidance concerning a specific case of lameness.

services effectively, ethically and legally, even when not

The latter observation suggests that there are numerous

physically standing next to the patient.

parties soliciting help over the internet as opposed to relying on their own veterinarian(s). After all, it is far easier to post

Giving Equestrians What They Want

64

a question online than it is to schedule an on-site visit that

So what do equestrians want with respect to veterinary

is likely to incur considerably more time and expense. This is

telemedical services? To get an idea, I might suggest that

an important consideration because it raises the following

you visit YouTube’s website and perform a search for the

points of discussion:

phrase “Lame Horse,” which is likely to generate about

1. How much equine “medicine” is being practiced by

a quarter million results. A few will be instructional clips

non-veterinarians? In other words, exactly who is providing

posted by veterinarians for the purpose of client education;

opinions on these online cases? How does the allocation

| EQuine America Magazine

of non-veterinary opinions affect the integrity of our

making a regular appointment with their veterinarian)

medical profession?

is due to the fact that the vet is too far away when a

2. What are the primary reasons behind the horse

problem becomes evident. Of course the study also

owner’s decision to solicit “Dr. Google” instead of

reported the expected arguments of time, money,

contacting their local veterinarian? Time and expense

and overall ease.

are fairly obvious arguments, but are there other

Generally speaking, equestrians want telemedical

incentives?

services to be:

3. What is the quality of “medicine” being practiced

• Easy. The process should be as easy as texting

over the internet? Are the individuals providing

or placing a phone call. Nowadays video can be

opinions online trained to do so? What are their

acquired on-site and sent within a few seconds using

credentials and endorsements?

a smartphone.

4. Are any veterinarians providing opinions in this

• Instantaneous. “Is my horse lame? Is this an

online setting? If so, are they legally authorized to

emergency? Can I just give him some Bute and see

do so?

how he does?” Obtaining answers to questions

5. What can the veterinary industry do to meet the

like these on the spot can take the panic out of the

apparent demand for remote medical service? It is

situation and provide instant peace-of-mind.

clear that the majority of equestrians who composed

• Informative. The guidance that professionals

the YouTube posts were utilizing veterinary practices

provide has to be informative. Preferably, it should be

that did not offer instant telemedical services.

beyond the scope of what a friend or trainer could provide. That said, horse owners are rarely seeking

If nothing else, our simple query confirms that the

a specific diagnosis over the phone. In most cases,

equine veterinary industry is well behind the 8-ball

they’re simply seeking advice that will help to

with respect to providing desired medical services to

determine what needs to be done next. Accordingly,

an equestrian community living in the digital age.

veterinarians

providing

telemedical

services

Based on a study performed by The Atlanta

don’t have to perform amazing feats of visual

Equine Clinic in 20171, the primary reason why horse

interpretation. Rather, the professional can usually

owners submit video footage online (instead of just

accommodate the client with general information

65

v e t er i n ary

and reserve specific judgment for the on-site appointment.

practice of medicine and the veterinarian is on the “hook” for

Of course nobody wants to spend too much for a service being

any ramifications stemming from his or her appraisal, even if it

provided at the other end of a phone. Still, any valuable service

was provided at no financial charge to the client. Appropriately,

should have an associated expense.

it is crucial that horse owners acknowledge the fact that there

• Documented Appropriately. If you’re going to get charged

are no such things as “unintentional” or “unofficial” veterinary

for the service, you will want detailed and secure records of your

opinions regarding a specific case. Any such opinion becomes

consultations for future reference.

the practice of medicine as soon as it leaves the veterinarian’s

• Not Restricted by Geography. Most horse owners will

lips or fingertips. The legal aspect of equine telemedicine will

solicit whichever professional they think will provide the best

be explained further in the next installment of EQuine AMerica’s

guidance with respect to the issue at hand, regardless of the

Telehealth series.

latter’s location (city, state, or country). We would hope that the

66

In order to work for the equine veterinarian, the practice of

primary veterinarian would serve this purpose, although this isn’t

telemedicine will have to be:

always the case.

• Easy. If it isn’t technically simple, veterinarians are not likely

This brings us to the second part of our discussion: What it

to do it (especially those that were not raised in the digital age).

is that veterinarians desire and have to have in order to practice

• Quick. If the vet has to take a major portion of time out of the

telemedicine.

day to perform video review, then he or she might as well just

Giving Veterinarians What They Want and Need

drive to the barn and assess the horse in person.

Our 2017 study confirmed that equine veterinarians

• Subject to Media Quality Control. Performing telemedical

must find a way to administer valuable guidance to their clients

review is not as easy at it appears, and becomes exponentially

instantly and from anywhere. For the equine veterinarian, who

more difficult as the quality of the video footage gets worse.

spends most of the time in the truck and/or barn, this service

Accurate assessment requires that the submitter knows exactly

must be employed through the use of a smartphone. At first

what the veterinarian wants to see and employs proper video

glance the process appears to be elementary: simply provide the

acquisition techniques.

client with an opinion in order to optimize the eventual outcome

• Legal. Veterinarians in the technological age can provide an

of the case. But, as a veterinarian, there is more to providing an

opinion on any horse from anywhere within a few seconds.

opinion than meets the eye. For instance, consider the following

However, since conveying this opinion qualifies as the practice

two points:

of medicine, the veterinarian must satisfy an entire checklist of

1. A veterinary opinion may seem quick and casual, but

“Must Haves” in order to keep their activities above board. The

many years of training went behind crafting that opinion.

first item on that checklist is a valid Veterinary-Client-Patient

Appropriately, a veterinary analysis should be worth more than

Relationship (VCPR), which is a convention that is designed

a non-veterinary analysis. Consider what a lawyer’s time and

to protect the equestrian (horse owner) from inappropriate

opinion are typically worth…

and fraudulent veterinary medical activity. It requires that your

2. A veterinarian who provides an opinion regarding a specific

veterinarian maintain a valid license and physically evaluate your

case is effectually practicing veterinary medicine. It does

animal (in person) at least once annually. Without this physical

not matter how casual that opinion may appear; it is still the

interaction, veterinarians are not permitted to give advice with

respect to the diagnosis or treatment of a specific animal.

transaction. Subsequent communications relating to the

They are also not permitted to prescribe medications for your

same consultation must go through the same process,

horse. If they do this, they are at risk of losing their veterinary

thereby convoluting the process even further. As you

license.

might imagine, the expense associated with providing

• Ethical. The appropriate practice of veterinary medicine can

the service quickly escalates for the professional, who

be very challenging for equine practitioners because many

must pay the staff enough to make each step of process

horse owners are not shy about seeking second or alternate

worth their while. The increased expense is then passed

opinions without notifying their primary veterinarian.

onto the horse owner who may have initially requested

Global access to veterinary opinions ensures that the horse

an answer to a fairly simple question. To keep the service

owner gets the best answers to their inquiries, but can also

user-friendly and economically feasible for both the

complicate things dramatically on the professional side of

horse owner and professional, therefore, payment for

the equation. At the very least, the vet maintaining a current

services must be rendered immediately and documented

VCPR with an animal should be aware of all telemedical

accurately without having to regularly engage office

activity and opinions that pertain to that animal.

personnel.

• Respectful of the Professional’s Privacy. The practice

• Documented Appropriately. Finally, records are an

of equine medicine is hard enough without having to worry

important part of any medical interaction with a client, but

about clients contacting you at all hours or for every trivial

can also expose the vet to the risk of legal ramifications,

cause. As a medical professional you want to be there for

especially if he or she has performed a service outside

your clients, but you also want to have the ability to dictate

of the realms of a viable VCPR. In accordance with

the hours that you practice as well as the hours that you

current veterinary regulations, records of each and every

don’t. For the sake of your veterinarian’s sanity, it’s important

telemedical consultation must be maintained securely and

that client-to-veterinary communications are managed

off-site. Each record must also be kept within the client’s

appropriately.

electronic account. Losing records as a result of dropping

• Transacted via eCommerce. Managing consultation

the phone into a water bucket, for instance, does not fall

fees via standard invoicing practices (such as through the

under the legal practice of veterinary medicine..

vet’s front office) takes most of the convenience out of

Grisel GR. Current horse owner petition for telemedical

1

telemedicine... for all parties involved. The professional

assessment of equine lameness, in Proceedings. 63rd

may spend five or six minutes performing the service, for

American Association of Equine Practitioners Annual

instance, only to have the office staff follow-up spending

Convention 2017 (San Antonio): 501-505

15 or 20 minutes properly documenting and invoicing the

67

e d i t or i al Photo: Erin Gilmore

LUSITANO MASTERS’ HORQUIDEA MVL

Lusitanos in America The next two editorials tell stories of bringing Lusitano horses to America and developing them into strong competitors. Daniela Siberio of Lusitano Masters imports her horses from Portugal, but intends to begin her own American Lusitano breeding program to continue developing what she believes is a wildly underrated breed. After Daniela encourages readers to reconsider the baroque breed, Holly Johnson introduces you to Iteragro Lusitanos, a prolific Brazilian breeder and importer of reliably high quality stock, of which America is their number one customer.

68

Photo: Erin Gilmore

“

“

Building a legacy takes time, but the possibilities are endless. Daniela Siberio

The Lusitano: A Journey from Portugal to America

It seemed to me like the winter equestrian capital of the

By Daniela Siberio of Lusitano Masters

world was a good place to start, so I went to Florida.

As I would soon discover, taking that first step into

This journey begins, as many often do, in the most

professional equestrianism was the easy part. The next

unexpected way. A serendipitous holiday in Portugal

step was to completely reinvent the Lusitano breed for the

introduced me to a centuries-old horse breed and

American public. Years of underwhelming performance

subsequently altered the course of my life. There are

created a pervasive misconception that the Lusitano horse

countless reasons why I fell in love with the Lusitano horse.

is unable to achieve the same excellence in American

Their baroque beauty is striking, of course. It is amplified

dressage as other breeds, particularly warmbloods. A

by a stately presence reminiscent of a time when Kings

natural aptitude for the classical haute ecole movements

and Queens inhabited the hilltop castles that adorn the

typecast the Lusitano horse in a very limited role. Their

Portuguese countryside. Their character and temperament

famously

are a unique combination of understated confidence and a

against them, further pigeonholing them as best suited

self-sacrificing desire to please that I had never experienced

for amateur equestrians. There is no denying that their

before. They are clever and intuitive, assimilating new

physical confirmation presents its own challenges to

skills quickly and tactfully. After spending a week working

obtain the same results as warmbloods in the competitive

with these talented horses, I was shocked to learn how

arena. However, a shorter back is not a justification for

undervalued they are in the world of competitive dressage

unsuitable training and substandard expectations. As

(outside of Portugal). That revelation is ultimately what

several international riders have proven in recent years

stirred me to action. After all, I’ve always loved a challenge.

Lusitano horses are as capable at producing high caliber

At the time, I was fresh out of university and searching

performances at the Grand Prix level as their warmblood

for my life’s purpose. Riding had always been a part of my

generous

temperament

actually

worked

counterparts, obtaining scores well into the 70s.

life, but it was a significant and uncertain leap to pursue it

Through my business, Lusitano Masters, I strive to

professionally. Although my parents support my endeavors

realize the vision of the Lusitano horse as a competitive

enthusiastically, I do not belong to a particularly “horsey”

breed within the American dressage community. I

family. That meant starting from scratch in an industry

train and compete young horses through the levels to

where who you know is about as important as who you

excel within the discipline. In doing so I seek to inspire

are. There were now two underdogs in this story: an

other professionals to invest their time and talent into

unknown rider and an unappreciated breed. Nonetheless,

Lusitano horses and to view their potential as equal

I felt strongly that both the Lusitano and I had a point

to that of other horse breeds. Although I am currently

to prove in the Dressage arena. Where do you go when

importing horses from Portugal, it is my vision that

you want to prove a point to the equestrian community?

their success will in turn

69

e d i t or i al

Photo: Julia Wentscher.

Tufão interagro

generate an interest in breeding the Lusitano on U.S. soil, thus continuing the breed’s evolution.

the rolling tropical jungles outside Sao Paulo, Interagro’s initial vision was to preserve and restore the original

Building a legacy takes time, but the possibilities are

Lusitano bloodlines and lineages, many of which

endless. After all, America is the land of opportunity.

were in danger of extinction following the Portuguese

This is an essential part of the country that I have

Revolution of 1974. Interagro has spent over four

always loved dearly; it’s a vibrant tapestry of peoples

decades breeding a modern Lusitano: a horse that’s

and cultures from all over the world that, with time and

athletic, easy to ride and a pleasure to train, with the

effort, become distinctly American in their own right.

ability to give warmbloods a run for their money in the

A similar process is underway with the Lusitano. The

FEI disciplines. Plus, they’re fairytale gorgeous with their

American experience is creating a new and innovative

lustrous, abundant manes and tails, glittering coats in

identity for the breed. When asked where my horses

every color, and a regal stance quintessential of the

are from, I jokingly (albeit proudly) state, “They are

baroque breeds—it all translates to one eye-catching

Portuguese-American.”

mount.

With all the rideability, movement, and beauty of

Interagro Lusitanos Brings Brazilian Bred Beauties

the Interagro Lusitano, it’s no wonder they’ve become

to American Arenas

a popular mount for both American amateurs and

By Holly Johnson for Interagro Lusitanos

professionals, with dressage being the discipline of choice. Their real endorsement is that many buyers

While most of the U.S. sport horse market is

don’t even bother traveling to Brazil to sit on horses

inundated with warmbloods, Interagro Lusitanos brings

before purchasing; they buy sight unseen. Such is

a different flavor to arenas from Florida to California.

Interagro’s reputation for precision and quality. Haras

With more than 300 horses exported from their 1,300

dos Cavaleiros, a training center in Magnolia, Texas,

acre stud and training center in Itapira, Sao Paulo, Brazil,

imported a selection of young Interagro horses who

the majority of those horses go to American buyers.

became highly decorated in dressage and working

Established in 1975 by Dr. Paulo Gaviaõ Gonzaga in 70

equitation. Xaveco Interagro, once a working equitation

Photo: Susan J. Stickle

Zepelim Interagro

World Cup Champion, is now a dressage schoolmaster for

popular Lusitano Collection International Horse Auctions

his owner’s young daughter. Tyra Vernon of BREC Dressage

have brought top quality young horses to Wellington,

out of Ocala, Florida has imported thirteen horses sight

Florida during the height of the winter equestrian season—

unseen in the past one-and-a-half years, making perfect

individual sales break six figures. Interagro has also held its

partners for clients or nurturing the young horses’ talents to

annual National Yearlings Auction in Brazil since 1992.

ever-higher levels of training. In the last decade, Interagro’s

Interagro’s success stems from its breeding program.

71

Photo: Susan J. Stickle

Fellini interagro

72

Photo: Fagner Almeida

“

With all the rideability, movement, and beauty of the Interagro

“

Lusitano, it’s no wonder they’ve become a popular mount for both American amateurs and professionals. HOLLY JOHNSON

With an amazing selection of stallions and mares from

selected and must be equally as decorated as their mates

elite, hard to find bloodlines, Interagro carefully evaluates

before entering the breeding program. Illiria Interagro, a bay

and pairs each coupling to produce progressively more

mare by the highly decorated dressage stallion Nirvana Interagro,

talented, healthy horses with amazing temperaments.

has been dominating driving competitions in Brazil. Tufao’s half-

Shed rows full of gorgeous, safe, fun to ride FEI prospects

sister, Carmelita Interagro, is another gorgeous buckskin mare

are a testament to their expertise. Their breeding stallions

who excels in harness, competing at the highest level in Brazil in

are required to be more than just beautiful, athletic,

singles, pairs, and Four-in-Hand.

and even-tempered—they must prove their worth in the

Building

on

40

years

of

meticulous

breeding,

competition arena as well. One of Interagros top stallions,

exceptional care, and world-class training, Interagro

Zepelim

Global

continues its mission to preserve the Lusitano’s exceptional

Dressage Festival in 2018 to compete in the Grand Prix

Interagro,

traveled

to

Wellington’s

bloodlines and qualities while showcasing their talent,

and won his Grand Prix class. Zepelim’s first foals were just

beauty, and intelligence, particularly in the FEI and sport

born in August and September 2019.

horse disciplines. A full list of the bloodlines and influential

While dressage seems to be the Lusitano’s strong

horses that gave rise to the modern Interagro Lusitano, as

suit, they’re equally sought after for other disciplines.

well as more info on all of the farm’s horses, is available at

One of the breeders’s most influential stallions, an

their website: www.lusitano-interagro.com.

iridescent buckskin named Tufao Interagro, competed on

Editor’s note: Fellini Interagro is this issue’s breathtaking

the American dressage scene in 2006 and currently has

cover model. Last year, Fellini traveled to Wellington’s

progeny competing and winning here in driving, dressage,

Global Dressage Festival to compete in the Grand Prix and

and working equitation. Interagro’s mares are carefully

Small Tour (Prix St. Georges/Intermediare I).

p i c t or i al All photos by Carina Roselli

McLain Ward on Rapidash

Highlights from the 44th Annual

Hampton Classic Horse Show The 44th annual Hampton Classic Horse Show featured more

crossing the timers in 42.66 seconds. Next, Mario and Bardolina

than 200 classes of hunter, jumper, and equitation classes for

executed a masterful pivot turn from the third fence, to cross in

approximately 1,500 horses and riders of all ages and abilities.

front of the open water, then across the field to the Hermès oxer at

They competed in six beautifully manicured show rings across 65

fence four. They were slightly off Devin’s time, but came home clean

acres. Riders from ten nations—including Olympic and World Cup

in 42.82 seconds. Last to go, Lucy mirrored her father by taking

champions—competed in five FEI classes, culminating in Sunday’s

the inside turn with long-time partner Hester who easily galloped

brilliant Grand Prix win by Canada’s Olympic and World Cup veteran,

the fastest time finishing in 39.60, but in a heartbreaking turn, they

Mario Deslauriers. The Deslauriers family had extra celebrating to

pulled down the top rail on the final fence. Lucy admitted, “I got a

do after this particular Hampton Classic because Mario’s daughter,

little excited,” as she recounted her jump-off round. “If I had it to

Lucy (USA), finished second behind her father after her own brilliant

do over again, I would have pulled a little harder to the last fence.”

win in Friday’s Douglas Elliman Grand Prix Qualifier, presented by

As for the much-anticipated new turf in the Grand Prix field,

Longines.

74

across the board and throughout the week, the consensus from

For Sunday’s Grand Prix CSI4* 1.60m, Top international course

riders and officials alike was how fantastic the field is after its million-

designer Michel Vaillancourt of Aiken, South Carolina built a

dollar renovation. Course designer Michel Vaillancourt was effusive

challenging course on the Classic’s brand new turf field, including

in his praise of the renovation, “In a year or two, this venue will have

a triple combination which took the competitors nearly the entire

some of the top footing in the world as far as grass is concerned.”

length of the packed VIP tent. The tough course was a true test

Olympic silver medalist Peter Leone said, “It felt like jumping on a

of ability, resulting in just three of 39 combinations progressing to

tumbling mat. There was life and spring to it—it was just so exciting

a jump-off round: Mario Deslauriers, Lucy Deslauriers, and Devin

to ride on a field like that!” Two-time Olympic gold medalist McLain

Ryan (final placing in that order). Devin misjudged the striding to the

Ward said, “It was perfect. Absolutely spot on. Not a single blade of

second fence and Eddie Blue took it down, resulting in four faults,

grass was out of place.”

McLain Ward and protege Adrienne Sternlicht finish their course walk of the $75,000 Douglas Elliman Grand Prix Qualifier.

Catherine Tyree on BEC Lorenzo.

VIP was bustling for Sunday’s Grand Prix.

Georgina Bllomberg with her son and pony jockey, Jasper.

Brianne Goutal-Marteau smiling wide after the show.

McLain Ward on Rapidash.

75

Photo: Carina Roselli

Mario and Lucy Deslauriers after their one-two takeover of the $300,000 DOHA, INC. Grand Prix.

Photo: Barre Dukes-Phelps Media Group

78

E d i t or i al By: Elaine Wessel/Phelps Media

Photo: Elaine Wessel - Phelps Media Group

2019 American Gold Cup Welcomes

Familiar Faces to the Winner’s Circle The 2019 American Gold Cup, presented by CaptiveOne Advisors, LLC, saw its triumphant return to Old Salem Farm in September, marking the event’s 49th year.

One of the most popular annual

horse-and-athlete

combinations

over

show jumping events in the United

designer Alan Wade’s (IRL) expertly

States, the American Gold Cup attracts

designed track to conclude a week

an international field of world-class

of thrilling sport. The home nation’s

athletes every year, with each vying for

golden

girl,

top honors in FEI competition on the

piloted

Abigail

pristine grass Grand Prix Ring nestled

victory, notching another return to

among the historic farm. In 2019, the

the winner’s circle and marking the

event saw a number of repeat champions

third time Beezie’s name will be etched

atop the podium, among them Beezie

into the illustrious American Gold Cup

Madden, McLain Ward, Molly Ashe

trophy. No stranger to Longines FEI

Cawley, and Kristen Vanderveen.

Jumping World Cup™ competition, the

The flagship finale of the horse show, the

prestigious

Madden

Wexner’s

(USA)

Garant

to

New York-based rider has now earned a

Longines

trifecta at the American Gold Cup, with

FEI Jumping World Cup™ - New York

the first two coming in 1989 and 2010.

CSI4*-W,

$210,000

Beezie

presented

by

CaptiveOne

Advisors, LLC, challenged 40 qualified

“He

has

a

tremendous

jumping

talent, which we all know is not always

79

E d i t or i al

Photo: Barre Dukes-Phelps Media Group

Photo: The Book LLC

1 • 1: Kristen Vanderveen and Bull Run’s Faustino de Tili.

• 2: McLain Ward riding Rapidash at the American Gold Cup.

2 everything. He’s incredibly smart. He knows he’s

Investments® Classic CSI4* ahead of 51 other

not supposed to hit the fences and he seems to

contenders, where he also placed third riding his

know how to run fast and jump high and I have

own Rapidash.

no idea why,” Beezie said of Garant. “I would say

“It’s always brilliant to sleep in your own bed.

this was a big step for him. Our goal is to do some

We don’t get to be home quite as much as we

bigger classes and push him a little bit in the fall,

would like and this is an incredible part of the

and then make a decision if he is one to try to

world that we call home. It’s also a really fun week

shoot for Tokyo [2020 Olympic Games] next year,

for us because we have a bunch of friends staying

but that’s a big ask for a 9-year-old. Our plan is to

at the house and the event is spectacular. It’s a

test him a little this fall and see if we want to aim

beautiful field and the [American] Gold Cup is an

him for that.”

iconic event, and it’s been top class show jumping

Adding to the class’s status, the contest was

all week,” said McLain of the event.

one of only seven events that comprise the East

The winner of the 2018 $204,000 Longines FEI

Coast division of the Longines FEI Jumping World

Jumping World Cup - New York CSI4*-W, the United

Cup™ North American League. Athletes compete

States’ Molly Ashe Cawley once again earned top

in the league at events all across North America

honors leading the scoreboard as the swiftest of

in order to qualify for the prestigious Longines FEI

only four double-clear performances in the $35,000

Jumping World Cup™ Final, which will be held in

Hermès Sellier Cup following a foot-perfect trip

Las Vegas, Nevada, from April 15-19, 2020.

with Balous Day Date. For her victory, Molly was

Another familiar face and New York hometown

awarded a beautiful champion’s ribbon, fittingly

hero, McLain Ward (USA) added a victory to his

created by class sponsor Hermès and featuring a

extensive list during his week at Old Salem Farm,

handmade rosette made of Hermès scarves.

this time aboard one of his newer up-and-coming

In the $35,700 Staller Welcome Stake CSI4*,

mounts. Riding Franka Trichta, the horse he co-

Kristen Vanderveen (USA) and Bull Run’s Faustino

owns with Susan Heller and Ashford Farm, McLain

de Tili, owned by Bull Run Jumpers Six LLC, emerged

topped the leaderboard in the $71,200 Fidelity

victorious defending their title after topping the

E d i t or i al Photo: Barre Dukes-Phelps Media Group

Molly Ashe Cawley and Balous Day Date. $35,000 Trelawny Farm Welcome Stake CSI4* in

its 50th anniversary, a milestone achievement

2018. Facing off against 62 other exhibitors in

for the historic equestrian competition. Sure to

the one-round speed class, Kristen and “Frosty”

entice the likes of international veterans and

clocked the quickest round over Alan Wade’s

rookie challengers once again, the event will

course, nabbing the top spot ahead of a tightly-

commemorate half a century of successful show

contested and talented field.

jumping with a few new exciting additions next

In 2020, the American Gold Cup will celebrate

summer, continuing its tradition of excellence.

Distinctly Virginia W I N D S O R FA R M |

R A P PA H A N N O C K C O U N T Y

|

FLINT HILL

A rare offering under 90 minutes to Washington DC. Almost 1000 pristine acres. A working farm, an extraordinary equestrian retreat comprised of 7 dwellings, 12 wells, a 10 acre lake, 2 bold streams a 100’ X 200’ riding arena, 10 stall barn, machine shop and outbuildings, fenced and cross fenced. Available in whole at $12,500,000 or in parcels.

Gloria Rose Ott | Vice President m +1 540 454 4394 | gloriarose.ott@sir.com Georgetown Brokerage 1206 30th Street NW, Washington, DC | ttrsir.com ©2019 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal housing opportunity. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Price and availability subject to change.

Photo: Jean Pierre Hourdebaigt.

Lisa (bottom row, second from left) with fellow students from the U.S. Para Dressage Coaches Certificate Program

USEF PARA DRESSAGE COACH CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

By Lisa Hellmer During the summer of 2018, I had the pleasure of being one

written and oral exam. With the completion of these requirements,

of fifteen eligible Para Dressage Coaches accepted to attend

coaches acquire progressive certifications as an Apprentice Coach,

the Pilot Coaches Seminar. I was thrilled to be part of this new

Bronze Coach, Silver Coach, and Master Coach.

program and to attend their first ever event to discuss the United

The syllabus for this program is very in depth and extremely

States Equestrian Federation’s plan for a coaching program

interesting. During the classroom sessions, coaches learn about

geared specifically towards Para Dressage. USA Team Coach

the art and science behind effective coaching. This combines both

Michel Assouline, Director of USEF Para Dressage, Laureen

technical skills of the sport and philosophy, and the impact it has

Johnson, and FEI Classifier, Joann Benjamin, led the session. This

on the development of the athlete. We learned about coaching

panel of para experts presented in front of potential coaches

styles, learning styles, philosophies, and methodologies behind

for three days, providing lots of information, demo riding, and

an affective coach. This allows new coaches to understand how

roundtable discussions about the sport.

to turn theory into practice through lesson plans, understanding

The objective of this pilot program was to further develop

Safe Sport practices, and healthy communication skills between

the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage Coach Certification Program,

coaches and their riders. The program emphasizes the ability to

which officially launched this year in 2019. It was a “dry run”

adjust to personality traits, varied abilities, and learning styles

of the syllabus and what the educational program would cover.

while using feedback and evaluation to develop personal

I was lucky enough to be one of the guinea pigs that were able

practice. We had opportunities to ask questions as they related

to go through the entire coach’s certification process and help

to current students and experiences, which opened up a very

provide feedback for the growth of the program. Currently,

interesting and positive dialogue among the group.

the USEF offers this coach’s certification program to applying

82

The curriculum is broken into four learning modules including,

coaches throughout the year, all hosted at various Para Centers

(1) Coaching Skills, (2) Sport-Specific Knowledge, (3) Technical

of

https://www.eq-am.com/para-dressage-

Riding Skills, and (4) Equine Management. Coaching Skills

centers-of-excellence for details on Centers of Excellence). The

discusses philosophy and principles of coaching, methodology,

certification program requires the attendance of a classroom

preparing and delivery the session, and finally the evaluation and

lecture, observation, and shadow teaching hours, as well as a

debriefing process. Sport-Specific Knowledge includes points

Excellence

(see

| EQuine America Magazine

P A R A D R E SS A G E

The curriculum is broken into four learning modules including, (1) Coaching Skills, (2) SportSpecific Knowledge, (3) Technical Riding Skills, and (4) Equine Management. temperaments..

such as knowledge of dressage as a sport, identifying talent,

challenges. It’s truly inspiring and a privilege to be able to be

and athlete development through the USEF Para Dressage

on this Team. It takes a village, nay a town, or maybe even a

Structure and pathway. Technical Riding Skills covers two main

whole state’s worth of people supporting riders, their families,

points—the horse and the athlete—for which we learned about

their horses, and their coaches to get them down centerline.

the horse and rider relationship, adapted scales of training,

Considering

para

coaching?

Initially,

it

can

feel

and choosing a para horse. We also had in-depth discussions

overwhelming. Team Coach Michel Assouline led a Power

about para-specific training techniques, adapting to various

Point presentation for which we had a binder with outlines of

disabilities, and warm-up techniques. Equine Management

each section to follow. As we took notes, asked questions, and

ensured that those who may not run their own barn have the

discussed various experiences as teachers, it started to set in

knowledge to manage a para horse.

that coaching is a journey—and not one done alone. The word

As a young professional, this felt quite different from some

“TEAM” comes up over and over again. The rider needs a coach,

other experiences I’ve had. Often as a rider, you figure things

a physical therapist, and a horse. The horse needs a trainer, a

out as you go—you learn from your mistakes and your horses

vet, a farrier, and a physio. The coach needs an instructor and a

teach you. Many of us have our own trainers to turn to, but

mentor, and a network of support. Being a Para Dressage coach

there are many questions too difficult to articulate. What do

requires flexibility, resourcefulness, and teamwork. As coaches,

you do in “xyz” scenario? What if “xyz” happens with my

we are supported with education, advice, open-mindedness,

client, or my business, or my horse? How do I navigate it? I ask

and most importantly a network. You are not alone. Your rider

myself these questions all the time, and wish that this industry

is not alone. This can be a daunting task, and we are here to

was somewhat more open to questions. I am a smart person

support you.

who’s college educated, hardworking, and a lifetime learner,

If you are interested in learning more about Para Dressage

yet sometimes it’s still hard to ask “How…?” This program

or the Para Dressage Coaching Certification Program please

was quite different; it was amazing to be part of a group of

visit https://www.usef.org/compete/disciplines/para-equestrian

professionals who encouraged questions. They wanted to

and https://www.usef.org/compete/disciplines/para-equestrian/

talk about these uncharted waters and help us learn how

para-equestrian-dressage-programs-forms. This link will direct

to support our riders along the path of Para Dressage. I am

you to the USEF Para Dressage Coaches directory, which I am

continuously impressed with the positive attitude this team has.

proud to be on, as well as links to various Para Dressage resources.

I feel reassured knowing I have a network and can continue to

Photo: Jean Pierre Hourdebaigt

1

1: Left to right, Debbie McDonald (U.S. Dressage Team

Para Dressage is Dressage—it’s judged by the same judges

Technical Advisor), Michel Assouline (Head of Para-Equestrian

that sit at C for able-bodied riders. Para riders ride the same

Coach Development), and Charlotte Bredahl (U.S. Dressage

figures and movements able-bodied riders do. Para Dressage

Development Coach) 2: A

is an Olympic discipline, and the commitment it takes to be a

para rider practices on Tryon

team rider is astounding. Not only is dressage hard, but these

International

riders are working every day to overcome their additional

Center’s horse simulator.

Photo: Lisa Hellmer

Photo: Lisa Hellmer

build it. I can get help for my riders and for myself.

Equestrian

2

83

equine nutrition

Dr. Ashley Wagner

equine nutrition Nutrition is one of those areas of horse ownership that is extremely misleading.

As a result, many horse owners turn to their stablemates, trainers, farriers, feed reps, and veterinarians. But who is the best source of nutritional information?

And are any of these better than Dr. Google?

The last National Animal Health Monitoring

nutritionist. So, we’ve brought in a Ph.D. equine

System report on horses, which is issued by the

nutritionist to answer some questions on the regular;

USDA, was conducted in 2015. It revealed that,

meet Dr. Ashley Wagner of Equinutrix Nutrition!

regardless

of

operation

size,

the

number

one

resource consulted for health care decisions was a

First,

what’s

the

difference

between

veterinarian. Although the survey question did not

veterinarian and a Ph.D. equine nutritionist?

a

specifically site nutrition, an equine nutritionist

Although both are referred to as doctor, the

was the least likely resource, scoring below social

letters behind their name and the education to earn

media, Dr. Google, and “other.” More recently, a

those letters differ. Most veterinarians have DVM

survey distributed by the American Association of

after their name. This stands for Doctor of Veterinary

Equine Practitioners of 531 veterinarians revealed

Medicine, with the exception of anyone who went

that 21% were dissatisfied with their nutritional

to University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary

education during veterinary school and 75% had

Medicine which awards VMD-Veterinariae Medicinae

not pursued continuing education in the area of

Doctoris. A Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy

nutrition. Regardless of this, veterinarians surveyed

within a specific academic field. Although both

still believe veterinarians are the best source of

veterinarians and nutritionists undergo rigorous

nutritional information second only to a Ph.D. equine

training, the path to practicing veterinary medicine

is more curriculum based, whereas a doctoral

multiple viewpoints and expertise to enhance a

student in the field of Animal Science (typically

horse’s health and well-being—and regardless

the department at the university) only spend

of what kind of doctor we are, that’s what it’s

some of their time in curriculum based training.

about.

Doctoral (Ph.D.) students spend most of their

From a nutritional perspective, what do you

time performing animal and laboratory-based

think is the biggest problem facing horses

experiments under the guidance of their major

and their owners today?

professor and committee with the aim of answering a question or proving an idea.

Throughout

doctoral

medication, but the type that slowly eats away at us. There are two major groups of horses

research in order to justify their experiments’

suffering the most ailments associated with or

questions

Photo: Adobe Stock.

must and

process,

study results.

the

the type of inflammation that doesn’t require

conducted

student

this

Low-grade systemic inflammation. This is

previously

in

resulting from this low chronic inflammation:

publication of manuscripts to peer-reviewed

the Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) group

scientific journals and a lengthy dissertation.

and the older equid group. Although we don’t

For example, in addition to the coursework

have the time now to go into the detailed

that I completed during my Ph.D., I conducted

specifics of either of these states, briefly,

five in-depth experiments in order to answer

the

various

“Factors

signaling, muscle growth and development,

affecting skeletal muscle protein synthesis in

and enhances muscle wasting. So, why do I say

the horse,” which were then composed into my

this is an issue from a nutritional perspective?

dissertation. In general terms, a veterinarian’s

Simply put, altered metabolism means we

education consists of more diverse training,

need to alter nutrition. Why? In both cases the

whereas a nutritionist receives more intensive

inflammation is chronic and systemic and can be

training in a specific area of study.

exacerbated by moderate to high levels of non-

questions

This

pertaining

culminates

to

systemic

inflammation

impairs

insulin

Now, as a Doctor of Equine Nutrition, I love

structural carbohydrates (NSC: sugar+starch).

consulting on cases with veterinarians because

Unfortunately, everything a horse eats has some

working together allows us to combine our

level of NSC, and while we can look for low

equine nutrition

Photo: Adobe Stock.

“

When you are considering adding a supplement, find out if there has

been research performed and published within a scientific journal or

“

presented at a scientific meeting on the product, on the ingredients, and on the right species.. Ashley Wagner

NSC commercial feeds, pasture is a bit trickier

thumb for horses that may be prone to EMS

and typically makes up a large portion of the

is to keep them off of pasture for one week

horse’s diet. However, there are certain rules of

following a killing frost.

Photo: Adobe Stock.

thumb we can follow to help protect horses.

Please note these rules may shift slightly based

Laminitis is such a problem, beyond low NSC

on location and environment, but since EQuine

diets and watching pasture intake, is there

America and Equinutrix are based out of the

anything else I can do to help my horse lose

Mid-Atlantic region, we will discuss basic rules

weight or curb this systemic inflammation

for our pastures here as an example. Specifically,

that you referred to?

at certain times of year, like the Fall and Spring, non-structural

carbohydrates

are

higher

There are a number of supplements on the

in

market that are targeted towards metabolic

grasses. As we head into the Fall, there is a

horses. However, it is always important to do your

disruption in the photosynthesis and respiration

homework when considering these options and

cycles. The process of photosynthesis produces

consult with a nutritionist and/or veterinarian.

carbohydrates during the day while the process

When you are considering adding a supplement,

of respiration utilizes those carbohydrates at

find out if there has been research performed

night. The swings in temperature during the

and published within a scientific journal or

Fall, and specifically freezing temperatures at

presented at a scientific meeting on the product,

night, slow or halt respiration, which causes

on the ingredients, and on the right species. The

the carbohydrate levels rise. Another rule of

publishing portion is important because it gives

validity to the work; it means it’s been reviewed by other scientists. Knowing if the research was performed on the product itself or just on ingredients is also informative because, if the research was just completed on ingredients, you want to know that the ingredients are included in the product at similar levels. The last piece is, what species? Horses are hindgut fermenters, so if the research only studied mice, humans, or pigs, it may not have the same efficacy in horses.

I am a firm believer of performing research on the final product and exhaustively investigating the product. For example, Starch Guard is the product in the Equinutrix line that I recommend for these types of horses. The research performed on it has shown the impact of the product in normal and obese horses consuming starch at both the systemic level (the inflammation and insulin signaling aspect) and at the gastrointestinal tract (the microbiome). The research has demonstrated that the product is effective at mitigating many

Equinutrix Nutrition Solutions

is dedicated to creating products with scientific evidence of efficacy to promote overall health and well-being of horses from the inside out.

of the problems of starch consumption at the microbiome and whole-body levels.

Note from the Editor: I’ve been using Starch Guard on my extremely easy keeping Belgian/ Haflinger cross for about 8 months now and it has majorly affected his and my ability to balance his weight. Last year, looking at green pastures gave him a pregnant belly. This year, he’s maintained a healthy bodyweight with light exercise, 8-hours of pasture, and no changes to his hay or grain intake. He doesn’t feel deprived and crabby, and I feel much better about his vulnerability to laminitis.

Gut Health

Muscle Health & Repair Metabolism

Insect Control

Coat & Conditioning

Stress Management

All of Equinutrix Nutrition Solutions products are show and competition safe.

www.equinutrixnutrition.com

our w orl d

Photo courtesy of Patti Gruber

OPERATION WILD HORSE As told by Program Director Patti Gruber And Conversations with Veterans Ja’nice Barrs and Ryan Bentele.

88

Operation Wild Horse started with another organization

walking him around the arena. It was safe to say Jimmy

called Veterans R&R (Release & Relief), which Jimmy Welch

wasn’t convinced that horses and veterans had anything to

founded in 2013. I watched the organization start growing,

do with each other or that the horses could offer anything

and in 2015 I decided that, because I’ve had some success

beneficial.

within the equine arenas, I wanted to do something to give

As I said, I don’t take “No” for an answer, so I invited

back. I approached Jimmy and asked him if I could work

him to come back and meet my mustangs, Sally and Padré.

with him to do an equine program. He initially said no, and

I had him go and sit in the middle of the indoor arena

I don’t really take “No” for an answer. So I said, “Well, why

on a chair. I said, “Just hang out there and let’s see what

don’t you come out and meet the horses and see what you

happens.” Padré went into the arena and he went from

think.”

corner to corner just looking at Jimmy and observing him.

The first time I brought him out, I put him and another

Once Padré decided that Jimmy was okay and he wasn’t

Marine on domestic horses, and the domestic horses were

going to eat him or harm him in any way, he went over next

great. The one Jimmy was on was, at the time, ridden by

to him, put his head down, closed his eyes, and started

a seven year old little girl and the other Marine was on

taking a nap. “That’s pretty amazing,” Jimmy said. “He

a very quiet painted horse. The Marine had a fabulous

just stood there watching me and then came over.” I said,

experience on the painted horse. He absolutely loved the

“Well, pick up your chair and move it somewhere else in the

horses, went walking, trotting, and galloping around the

arena.” So he did, he picked it up and he moved it off to

arena, and thought it was the best thing ever. Jimmy, on

the side of the arena where we had just put a new clock on

the other hand, was so terrified on this little girl’s horse that

the wall. Padré was a little offended: ‘We had just become

he kept zipping the horse with his legs. I ended up hand-

a herd, and now you’re leaving.’

Padré went over by him, touched the clock on the wall, and then touched Jimmy. He kept doing this back

be out of control at any moment.” He said he enjoyed that feeling.

and forth as I’m watching them both. Jimmy asked,

So we got through the parade, everything was

“What is he doing?” We had just put the clock on the

beautiful, and we started inviting veterans out on

wall that morning, and it was a black clock on a white

Saturday mornings from 8:00am to 10:00am for what

wall, so it was very obvious. I explained, “He wants

we call a “Veteran’s Camp.” We started by listening

you to take the clock down off the wall and show it

to the veterans about the different things they would

to him.” Jimmy was like, “Whatever.” I said, “No, I’m

like to do and what they would like to get out of the

serious. Take the clock down and show it to him.” So

program. We really built the program by listening to

he takes the clock down, holds it in front of Padré and

them and what their needs were. We still do that to this

he nosed it all over. The second he got done nuzzling it

day. We let them tell us what they’re looking for, what

and decided it wasn’t a threat, he stepped to the side of

they would like to do with their riding, what activities

Jimmy, put his head down, and went back to his nap.

they would like to do, and what they do and don’t want

From that point forward, Jimmy realized there really was

to do out in the community.

something about the mustangs and maybe the veterans would benefit from these behavioral experiences.

It’s a very structured, unstructured program in that we teach them how to ride, how to take care of the

It took us about two years of planning to come up

horses, and how to develop good ground work and

with what we were going to do for Operation Wild

horsemanship skills, but aside from that, the unstructured

Horse. In February 2017, Marine Corps League 1395 in

part is that you never know on any given day who will

Lake Barrack, Illinois awarded us a grant to lease two

come in and what they’ll want to do. Someone may

mustangs from a friend of mine for six months. I owned

have a 2:00pm lesson on a Wednesday, but they’ll arrive

two mustangs at the time, so we had four to work with.

at 10:00am because they have things going on in their

Our task was to have the veterans program up and

lives that are difficult and they just need to come out

running so that they could ride in the Memorial Day

and be in the barn for a while to get away.

The barn is a place they can go without getting a

to get veterans, who weren’t riders, who likely suffered

hundred opinions on what’s going on in their life. And

from some level of trauma or disability, to be able to ride

it’s not a bar—it’s just a safe space. They may just go out

in a parade. If you’ve never ridden in parade before, I can

and spend time with the horses in the pasture. They may

tell you anything that can possibly go wrong normally

pull one out and groom it. They may just stand on the

does—you have to be prepared for everything. After

fence line and watch their world happen. And then their

the parade was a success, one of the Marine riders told

lesson time comes and they may or may not decide to

me, “Riding a horse was as close to the feeling of being

bring a horse in and get it tacked up to ride. Even after

back in the military where you’re in control, but could

their lesson is over, they may stick around for a couple

Photo courtesy of Patti Gruber

parade in May. We had a little more than three months

89

our w orl d Photos courtesy of Patti Gruber

Patti Gruber and Rooster. more hours to enjoy some camaraderie with other veterans

pressure off of them at their comfort levels. Whereas, with

that showed up.

a domestic horse, you can put whatever you want on them

We make sure the veterans know how to behave safely

and most of the time they’re just going to deal with it and

around the horses, that way we can let most of them have

keep going. But, it doesn’t work that way with a mustang.

free run of the place. When they first come in, I do all of

They truly mirror your behavior. So I became a much better

the evaluation with them and I figure out what they do

horse person by having that first horse. At the end of that

and don’t know. They have to participate in Veteran’s

year, the man that I got her from, Dr. Ric Redden from the

Camp a bit so that they learn the ins and outs of what is

International Equine Podiatry center in Lexington, Kentucky,

safe and not safe to do around the horses. Then, when

asked if I would take a second mustang—Padré.

we start going out in the pasture, the first thing we have

When I first got Padré, my friends all bought me stuff

to do is teach them how to catch a wild horse. That may

with skulls and crossbones on it. They’re like, “What are

sound easy if you’ve ever dealt with a domestic horse, but

you doing? You got a mustang and he’s a stallion… And oh

if you don’t approach a mustang the way that it wants to

my god you’re going to die!” Padré turned out to be the

be approached, it’s going to turn around and it’s going to

biggest puppy dog on the planet. I could turn him out with

leave. The veterans really have to learn how to master their

other horses. I traveled the country with him, just me and

body language. We do a lot of that at first.

him most of the time. I could take him anywhere. I would

Once we’re through that process, we know that they’ve connected with a horse and we know that they have the

horses any day of the week.

skills to be safe. They’ve spent some one-on-one time with

I built my riding career with Padré. He is so amazing,

me in riding lessons and in the barn. Then, when I think

and he helped me show the rest of the world how amazing

they’re ready, I pair them up with a veteran mentor who’s

mustangs are. Padré is the first wild horse to qualify and

been with the program a little bit longer and really knows

compete at Dressage at Devon. He won his stallion class

the ins and outs of what they can and cannot do. That’s just

and was named Reserve Grand Champion Stallion Overall.

an extra measure of safety.

He’s the only mustang that’s ever been recognized by

Another big piece is that we try to figure out which

the United States Dressage Federation, where he holds

mustang each veteran connects with. Then we try to pair

a national ranking with them for dressage sport horse

them up specifically with that mustang. I have had a variety

breeding stallion. He’s only been beaten by the number

of horses in my life, and in 2006 I got my first mustang. She

two and number three warmbloods in the country. He beat

was a basically an untouched mare and I can tell you, in the

the Swedish warmblood with the highest score of all time

first year that I had her, I learned more about horses than I

for a stallion. All for in-hand dressage breeding stallion

had in my whole entire life as a horse person. I had to learn

competitions.

to think like them and to put pressure on them and take

90

take him to go do something scary over any of my domestic

After winning at Dressage at Devon, a blogger on the

east coast found out about him and started to petition

Ranger. Gold Star, named for the gold star symbol

Breyer to make Padré into a model horse—now he

military families receive when they lose a loved one

is one. Normally, Breyer horses are only out for one

in war; he came from the father of a Marine Corps

year, but his model sold so well that they produced

sniper. Rooster, a chestnut gelding named after the

it for two years. In 2011, Dressage Today featured

nickname given to M60 machine gun handlers in

Padré in their January, August, and November issues.

Vietnam because their machine gun muzzle flashes

He also has a children’s book written about him and

were reminiscent of a rooster’s tail; he came from

he’s part of an adult book series called, For the Love

an auction where we outbid a kill buyer to get him.

of the Horse. So when I say I had success in the

Pearl Harbor, whose name needs no explanation, is

equine industry, it really went all back to Padré and

a black and white pinto gelding who came through

my relationship with him. I knew that I wanted to

the Mustang Makeover program, trained by Brittany

show the world how amazing these horses are, and

Johnson. Flicker, a bay mare named for the beautiful

I thought, ‘Let me take this and try and give back by

Linkin Park song about suicide called “One More

helping veterans.’

Light,” also started by Brittany Johnson, but

Both of my grandfathers are best friends; one

she never went through the Mustang Makeover

of them served in the Navy and the other one was

program because of an injury we didn’t want to

a Marine who was in a POW camp for a while. I saw

rush to heal. Fango, a bay gelding who was just

the difference between my two grandfathers growing

given to us from Dr. Redden, who I got Padré from.

up. My grandfather who was in the Navy was a

And of course Padré who is a dun gelding, now 20

pretty well-adjusted and happy guy. My grandfather

years old and retired.

who was a POW couldn’t deal with his demons. He

Ryan Bentele and Phoenix are incredibly bonded.

self-medicated and his wife self-medicated to deal

When we got her, she was supposed to be 15.1hh

with him. I just wanted to do something to make a

and she came off the trailer at 13.2. But she’s stout

difference because I was so fortunate that Dr. Redden

and fiery, and when Ryan hasn’t been to see her for

had gifted Padré to me; that allowed me to create this

a week, she will actually walk up and nip him in the

life that I never imagined I could have, let alone with

chest! It’s really cute, and it’s a behavior she doesn’t

a mustang.

do with anyone else. She has a certain demeanor

We have ten mustangs in our veterans program now. We have Phoenix, a bay mare named for rising

when he’s around that is just calm and sweet. It’s just amazing to watch.

The horses are amazing and they’re therapeutic

in Nevada. Socks, a black mare also from Nevada, but

without ever batting an eyelash, or learning anything

who came through the Mustang Makeover program

in books, or school, or anything else—it all just comes

from a trainer named Tracy Porter. Peanut, a sorrel

naturally to them. I am so fortunate to be able to

mare who is also a kill pen rescue. Shrimp, a chestnut

share my love of these mustangs with people who

mare who came through the Mustang Makeover

absolutely 1000% deserve everything for what they

program, also from Tracy Porter. Ranger, a gelding

gave. I wouldn’t be able to be a horse trainer if it

named after his former owner’s profession as an Army

wasn’t for the sacrifices these veterans made.

Photo courtesy of Patti Gruber

from the ashes since she was rescued from a kill pen

91

our w orl d

Photo: Patti Gruber

A Conversation with

JA’NICE BARRS NAVY VETERAN AND MEMBER OF OPERATION WILD HORSE

EQuine AMerica: How did you get involved in Operation Wild Horse?

Ja’nice Barrs: My daughter was taking dressage lessons with our director, Patti Gruber, before the program really came into its own. One day we were having a clinic at the barn and Patti comes up to me and says, “Why didn’t you tell me you were a veteran?” And I’m thinking, ‘When would it come up?’

Ja’nice on Shrimp.

She said, “Well, you know I have this color guard going.”

And I knew it. There were four Marine guys who would ride and go to these events, and I’d heard about it. I knew the

because I really didn’t think I needed that. But it’s... One of

four guys through the barn, but just didn’t think anything

the guys described it best. He said, “We are like-minded

else of it. It just seemed to be something these four guys

individuals.” Nobody else understands our training and our

did because they all belonged to the Marine Corps League

sacrifice as well as we do. We come together as one and we

together.

function as a unit. Whatever job needs to be done, people

Patti went on and laid out what she wanted to do with

are ready. “Okay, I can come help get everybody off to the

the program and she said, “I want veterans and I want people

parade.” Or, “I can be a safety walker in this parade.” Or, “I’ll

who love horses. Do you want to do it? You can take lessons

do this.” Or, “I’ll do that.” Even though we are of different

and it won’t cost you anything.” She was all amped-up and

age groups, different branches of service, and different

excited. I’m standing there, she’s just going on and on so I

experiences, we all come together as a unit.

said, “Yeah, sure.” She goes, “You’ll do it?” I’m like, “Yeah.”

We have Korean War veterans. We have Vietnam

She said, “Great, we’ll talk later.” And out the door she goes.

veterans. We have people who went to Desert Storm, Iraq,

Apparently my husband heard them talking at the clinic and

and Afghanistan, and then we have people who served that

said, “Well, you know, Ja’nice is a Navy veteran.” Then it was

were never in any conflicts, like me. Yet we still think and act

me and four guys from the Marines, and the program was

and function the same. We’re very supportive of each other.

born.

Like when it comes to riding and teaching new people how to handle the horses: Patti does all the actual training, but we

What years did you serve?

I was on active duty from August of ‘81 to August of ‘86.

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pair up with somebody to teach them how to be around the horses, sort of like a mentor.

Then I served in the Active Reserve for 12 more years. Did

The people have their quirks just like the horses have their

you deploy? I was prepared to deploy for Desert Storm, but

quirks. It can be related to life experiences they’ve had while

then I didn’t. I already had my paperwork filled out and my

they were serving, and everybody understands how to work

affairs in order. I already had my bag packed. I mean, I was

around those idiosyncrasies. The mustangs are the same way.

ready to go, if I had to go, but no I never did have to go.

You can’t put Peanut on crossties. You can groom her and

I did my time and then I got out. I was never part of any

put her saddle on in her stall and she doesn’t move. She just

veterans’ organization before this one though, and it’s funny

stands there and lets you do it. Who knows why? Like I said,

they all come with their baggage, and a lot of these

to ride, I’m so looking forward to it because it brings

veterans do too.

such a calm over me. Whatever little frustrations that I

We have one guy who’s 80-something. He was

was dealing with, I’ll get around that horse and they’ll

in the Korean War. He lives for coming and being

sense that. And they have such a calming effect. All

around the horses and being a part of the group. He

those little things, all the frustration just falls away.

doesn’t ride, but somebody will work with him if he

Some of the horses can be very intuitive... like

wants to handle the horses or maybe do some kind

Peanut for example, and Socks will do it too, they

of confidence course or something. Of course we

will sense your feelings and just stop and put their

make sure he gets the gentlest horse. He’ll probably

head up against your belly—almost like a hug—and

get Peanut because she’ll just do whatever—you walk,

everything just goes away. Then when you relax, you’ll

she walks, you stop, she stops. Somebody will walk

hear them take a breath and feel them relax.

with him, but at least he gets to be a part of it. For

I really do enjoy getting up on Saturday mornings

those who are less physically able than others are, we

and being there with the group doing whatever it

let them do as much as they can do because it’s very

is we’ll do with the horses that day. I get more out

important that they have that time with the mustangs.

of it than I ever thought I would. I thought, “Yeah,

We’ve had some guys who suffered loss from

that’ll be fun. I get to ride.” But being a part of the

suicide in the past couple of years, and they’ll just

group, seeing what others have experienced, and

show up at the barn and spend some time with one

supporting them or helping new members… I get

of the horses. Maybe they’ll bring them out into the

great satisfaction out of it.

arena and walk them around or something. Or, maybe

It’s amazing to see the difference in some of the older

they’ll just stay in the aisle and talk to them or be in

gentlemen. They just really thrive in the environment,

the stall and rub them. Some people just want a little

being a part of the group and being around the horses.

horse therapy, but that doesn’t necessarily mean riding.

It’s pretty awesome to see. We had an older gentlemen

One guy comes out every day at lunch to see a couple

who got his buddy involved. I worked with the two

of horses that he rides. He gives them pats and treats,

of them the first few times his buddy came, so I was

and then he goes back to work. He does it almost

just holding the horse and letting him show his buddy

every day.

how to do things and then I would just add in a little direction here and there. Seeing the pride that he took

So, can you tell me a little bit about what you are

in sharing what he knows with his friend, and seeing

getting out of the program?

what he was getting out of teaching his friend… I walked away with something too. It wasn’t about me

job. I take care of two or three different surgical

at that moment, yet I still walked away with the joy of

services, so I get pulled in different directions. When

seeing that interaction and what these horses did for

I’m going out to the barn, like I’m going out tonight

those gentlemen.

Photo: Patti Gruber

I work in the O.R. so I’ve got a pretty high-stress

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our w orl d

Photos courtesy of Ryan Bentele

A Conversation with

RYAN BENTELE MARINE CORPS VETERAN AND MEMBER OF OPERATION WILD HORSE

EQuine AMerica: What years did you serve in the Marines?

Ryan Bentele: From 1998 to 2006. I was on active duty until 2002. We had some deployment’s over in Asia as part of a security force, and I did a lot of work on nuclear submarines and a lot of helicopter operations. Fun stuff. I’d been on active duty during 9/11, so I was ready to deploy to the Middle East, but we didn’t deploy immediately. We were on hold for a long time, and then my end of service date came up so I got out.

Ryan on Phoenix.

When I got home, I signed up with a Marine Reserve unit. I was

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living in Illinois and the 224th infantry unit was in Milwaukee,

My commander sent me to the Green Zone to fly to Germany

Wisconsin.

for medical care. Long story short, I jumped on a truck and

We got to do different things, like going to Denmark and

came back instead. I had heard a bunch of my sergeants were

training over there for two weeks. I was able to train in Martial

injured by a mortar that landed right on top of their roof, so

Arts, set up some Standard Operating Systems (SOPs) that I’d

there weren’t very many sergeants like me left. The first four

used in the security forces doing group patrols. Then I heard

months we had nine attacks per day in our area of operations

people started getting sent to Iraq. We started to prepare, and

(AO), so I went back.

we learned that the basic stuff we’d been doing for umpteen

My unit took over an abandoned school and set up camp

years wasn’t working as well for urban patrolling. We came

there. We were the first Reserve Unit to be a forward operating

up with new procedures, things to deal with the improvised

base (FOB). We never went back to our other base; we worked

explosive devices (IEDs) and car bombs—new antiterrorism

out of the town we lived it. We did patrolling and found a lot of

stuff. Then, in 2003, my unit got orders to deploy, but I wasn’t

IED makers. We found the second largest ordinance stockpile

on the roster, so I volunteered myself to go.

of the entire Iraq war. The Iraqi’s named us “Mad Ghosts”

We replaced an Army unit. We went out patrolling with

because we would go out at two o’clock in the morning, bust

them a couple of times before they left. We said we’re going

down doors, and figure out who’s bad and who’s not. We

to do a foot patrol and they said, “We don’t do foot patrols

thought that was pretty cool, being named by the enemy. We

here.” We said, “Okay. Well we do.” To which they replied,

lost seven guys in my company, one of them from my platoon,

“We don’t recommend it.” We did our first foot patrol, a

which I was in charge of. We kind of led the way, but we got

leaders recon, and as soon as we got off the trucks people

hit pretty hard. I’m sorry to hear that.

started driving at us trying to blow us up with their car bombs.

I came back to Milwaukee and my family had moved to

We pretty much went from nothing to straight weapons hot.

Florida! My parents and my sister lost their houses to hurricane

We were in Anbar province, south of Baghdad, which was an

Ivan down there. So I came back to that. Then hurricane Katrina

area called “the triangle of death.”

came not long after. All the workers who were rebuilding

One night we went out and it was pitch black and we lost

our house, along with all our government aide, left to go

a couple of trucks to MPGs. My Humvee flew off a bridge that

to Katrina. When Katrina came through, it kind of screwed

blew up right before we got to it, so I have some paralysis.

everything up again and people were driving down the streets

with all their belongings and everything else. My PTSD

she came from a rescue that snatched her up from a

started showing up at that point. From that event, or

kill pen down in Louisiana. She didn’t want a blanket

do you think that it was from events in Iraq? It was

and it was March and about 23° F outside. You could

kind of like—back in chaos.

count her ribs. Just watching her walk off the trailer I

You think you’re going back to the States and everything’s nice and hunky dory, but I came back

thought, ‘Oh My God!’ But, she was super sweet; she knew we were there to help her.

and everything I cared about was destroyed. I was in

I spent every day I could from that point on going in

a free fall down there. We went to the northwest to

and working with her. Sitting in the indoor arena with

stay with some cousins and uncles. Things weren’t

her to build trust with her and establish that I’m not

going well with the insurance companies trying to pay

going to hurt her and she’s not going to hurt me. These

out the hurricanes loss. We ended up moving back to

mustangs have a different fight for life. Everything they

Illinois, and that’s when I met Operation Wild Horse.

do is about survival. I’ve met with them in the indoor

What year was that? 2016. I met Jimmy Welch at an

and one’s facing out one way, one’s facing out the

Oktoberfest. He was dressed in a Marine Corps uniform

other way, and one’s facing out another way—they

and had a horse there with him. I started talking to

had 360 security like they were in the Marine Corps.

him and he was like, “Hey, just come out,” blah, blah,

And their hierarchy is so obvious you could give it ranks

blah. I thought, ‘Alright, sure, sometime.’ Then one day

if you wanted to.

I ended up at a place right down the street so I thought I should go check it out.

If somebody gives them a bad feeling, they go in the other direction. Fight or flight. Other horses not so

I went in there and Jimmy showed me around. He

much. Other horses are thinking, ‘Hey, what’s going

explained what they do there and said I was welcome if

on? What am I supposed to do?That’s interesting.

I wanted to do any of it. They don’t have any standards

I’ve not worked with mustangs myself, but I

you have to meet. There’s no expectations for your

think I get your point. The average warmblood

riding lessons. They don’t make you obligate to certain

or Thoroughbred gets freaked out because of not

things. It’s unregimented, not like the military, which

knowing what they’re supposed to be doing or

I thought was cool. Everybody was super-friendly and

what’s going on around them. From what I’ve

took me in like family. It doesn’t matter what branch

heard about the mustangs, they’re not necessarily

you were in—we’re all on the same team. I’d say a

thinking ‘What am I supposed to do?’ They’re

majority of the guys are Vietnam era Marines, but it

thinking ‘Where are my exits? Yup, it’s their herd

doesn’t matter what era you we’re in. PTSD is PTSD

and survival mentality.

whether it’s from Vietnam or Iraq. We don’t have to prove ourselves to each other. We don’t even talk about the shit we did. We just know we’ve done some bad stuff and we’re here to do something different.

How often do you get to work with Phoenix now?

Most average weeks I try to go at least twice.

Sometimes I miss a Saturday. It depends on what we’re doing. If we’re training for something I try to come more.

How old are you? 43. I wondered because I

When I was practicing for my first western dressage test,

saw in the video clip from Steven Latham’s The

I was going as much as possible, almost every other day,

Mustangs: An American Story, the program has

if not more. Slowly but surely I worked with Pheonix and

quite a gradient of ages. I think Ja’nice said you

desensitized her to scary things: blankets, tarps, all kinds

even have someone vets from Korea.

of stuff. I got her a nice warm blanket for the rest of the

Yup. We have people from Korea, but some of those guys don’t ride. That’s fine because there are all

winter. I got her on a steady diet and she gained like 300 pounds. She’s nice and filled out now.

different things to do besides riding. There’s a bunch

I help out where I can as a volunteer, too. I fix and

of groundwork that we do, horsemanship, etc. There’s

service trailers if I can. I save money for Operation Wild

other stuff like, I kind of sponsor one of the horses

Horse because it’s all funded by donations. We do the

because she didn’t have a sponsor yet. Which one?

big Midwest horse fair. We train a couple of months

Phoenix. Yes, Patti told me about you and Phoenix.

doing that. It’s like two or three times a week trying to

I had been there for about a year when we got

come up with a routine that we can do as a team. It’s

Phoenix in and I started working with her. It was the

one of the largest horse fairs in the Midwest. It’s a huge

middle of winter and she was skin and bones because

arena and a lot of fun every year.

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our w orl d Photos courtesy of Ryan Bentele

half. We don’t do the same thing every time. We’ll get a few new guys in one weekend so we’ll start from the beginning by sitting in the arena and bringing out the horses. Or we’ll have different practitioners come in and show us different skills that might help us.

Sometimes we can participate in different programs. I went to Colorado last year to The Great Escape. They work with mustangs and they have 500 or more acres. Beautiful terrain.

You could see the mountains in the background. We didn’t have anything to distract us. It was off the main road. We lived in these tiny little houses with no internet and barely any

Ryan with Pearl Harbor.

cellphone reception.

They have a wild herd of mustangs and we were able to work with untouched mustangs that were captured by the

Are you the only one that works with her? Or are there

BLM. I think there were four or five of us veterans and one

several people?

active duty guy. Gaining the mustangs’ trust and being able to

I’m working with her, along with some of the other

put your hands and a halter on them for the first time was just

volunteers and workers with Operation Wild Horse. She has

amazing. I was able to work with mine enough to get him to

the biggest personality. We are riding and training her until we

walk into a trailer, over obstacles, and stuff like that. We had

feel confident that other riders would be fine on her. For the

a horse psychologist come donate their time and meet two or

last six months or so, she’s been able to work with some other

three times to ask how’s it going, what do you think this horse

veterans. She’s never thrown anyone, but she’s got her quirks.

is doing? How’s he acting? I was able to bring some of that

She has a lot of energy—she’s a wild horse.

back to use with Phoenix. That was a really neat experience. It

I was able to work with her to a point where I can do

was a nice little getaway to go on.

parades with her out in the public. Taking a horse from the wild and then a kill pen, training her to be safe going down

Did you have any horse experience prior to Operation

the streets you grew up on, and carrying the American flag, in

Wild Horse? Or, did you just took to it naturally?

uniform, on a horse that helped give you second chance at life is pretty amazing. She’s given me a second chance.

I’d gone on maybe one trail ride when I was nine years old.

I don’t think that really counts. [laughs] Yeah. That probably doesn’t count. I just love animals. These horses are huge,

So, on average how many veterans do you think there

magnificent creatures that are wild and could hurt you in an

are in the program? I know they come and go, but can

instant. They’re 1000-1500 pound animals who could back

you give me an average?

you into a wall and give you a little bit of realism. This isn’t

I don’t think I can tell you because it’s all different. Tuesdays and Thursdays I’ll ride with some of the Vietnam vets. I only

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fun and games—you have to know what you’re doing and be thinking about everything you’re doing.

ride in the afternoon, but there are all different times available.

It was something new to me, too, and I liked that. I had

Then on Saturdays it could be anywhere from 15 to 20 people.

to learn something new and I was able to bring my family.

Saturday morning we’re all there, at six o’clock, drinking coffee,

My wife and son learned how to ride. It was something that I

figuring out what we’re going to do for the next hour and a

could do with them outside the house. Getting me out in the

public was a big thing too. Doing these fundraisers... If

anyway, that whole sort of shift in focus happens

it wasn’t for my horse, and the need to get the funding

naturally. I don’t have to force it. I don’t have

for her, I don’t think I could go out in public talking

to work at it. I show up at the barn and it flips

to strangers. It got me out of the house, which had

the switch somehow. I think that’s something

become a prison.

amazing that the horses do.

Yes, exactly. I tell people in my Marine Corps league

You don’t have to answer this if you don’t want

about it. I always tell them the spiel, “I can’t tell you

to, but could you tell me a little bit about how

exactly what the horses do, I can’t write it down for

you think the program has helped you with your

you.” [laughs] It’s mystical.

PTSD or any other issues you were dealing with before you joined Operation Wild Horse?

It also helps with the physical part. I had paralysis on my right side. I’ve got scar tissue and had knee

I have traumatic brain injury (TBI), which goes along

surgery and back surgery. But, riding a horse is relaxing.

with PTSD a lot of times. I have a lot of memory loss,

People would probably think the last thing you’d want

which transfers to anger. But when I have bad days,

to do is get on bumpy horse, but it actually helps if you

I can’t stay pissed off at the world—I have a riding

walk around on one for a half-hour or so. It takes my

lesson. I’m going in for my horse and I have to check

hips and moves them for me, and the rotation loosens

myself; this isn’t going to fly working with my horse.

me up. All the time I feel like this is going to be a bad day

She’s going to know that I’m in a bad mood. She’s not

for me, but then I go to the barn for a couple of hours

going to want to cooperate with me. I have to kind of

and feel better.

drop it at the door and take a deep breath. It gives me a

It might be different for everybody, but I tell you

reality check to know that I can’t be like that all the time.

what, it makes a difference in my life. I tell the guys in the League that they’ve got to come check it out. The

I was suspected of TBI. It turns out I don’t have

biggest thing I try to pass on to people is, if you’re going

it, but I do have similar symptoms like memory

to try treatment programs, make sure you try them all

loss because I have fibromyalgia and some

before you give up. Try a horse program before you go

other neurological issues. I find that when I go

down a bad road.

work with my horse, I don’t have room to split my focus because I have to be all-in. Everything

Operation Wild Horse is a 501c3 nonprofit

doesn’t necessarily go away completely, but in

organization. If you’d like to donate to Operation

that moment, I don’t feel like I’m thinking about

Wild Horse, please mail your check to: Operation

anything else except my horse. I think that’s

Wild Horse, 605 South Valley Hill Road, Bull Valley,

something that’s really unique to working with

Illinois, 60098.

them. Exactly. If I’m thinking about something else,

Check them out on Facebook

she could get hurt or I could get hurt. And for me

@OperationWildHorse-VeteransR&R.

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ep i logue

An American Story There was a rainy night in August, during the Hampton Classic Horse Show, when the

horses hold in our country.

Operation

W ild

Horse,

discussed

in

EQUUS Foundation held a fundraiser in a

this issue’s “Our World” column, is one

beautiful “barn” full of beautiful art. That

of the many organizations Steven uses to

night, gracious hosts Joan and George Hornig

demonstrate the mustangs iconic nature,

lent their viewing room to showcase the full-

but this part goes a step further… Steven’s

length trailer for The Mustangs: An American

coverage of Operation W ild Horse shows us

Story by award-winning documentary producer

how America’s iconic mustangs are saving

and director, Steven Latham.

America’s iconic soldiers.

Some of you may recognize Steven from other

If you haven’t already, please go back a few

projects like the series Shelter Me (ShelterMe.

pages and read our column on Operation Wild

tv and ShelterMe.com), which celebrates the

Horse and the soldiers whose lives it’s touched.

human-animal bond through uplifting stories

After that, head to www.EQ-AM.com to view

about shelter pets. This time, Steven has turned

the The Mustangs trailer. Then, go to www.

his creative lens to America’s wild mustangs,

TheMustangsFilm.com

using several stories from multiple perspectives

on Facebook for more details on the film’s

to illustrate the complicated status these wild

release date. You won’t want to miss it!

or

@TheMustangsFilm

F O U N D A T I O N

Where they go next is up to us All horses, even champions of the racetrack and the show ring, are only one unlucky sale away from abuse, neglect and slaughter.

Tens of thousands of horses become atrisk each year. Over 81,000 horses shipped across our borders to be slaughtered in 2018. Most were young, healthy and had untapped potential.

Horses contribute positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of all people - with and without special needs.

However, with the expense and time required for competition becoming unrealistic for most people, and 84% of the US population living in cities of 50,000 or more, access to horses is decreasing.

The EQUUS Foundation is the only national animal welfare charity in the United States which is 100% dedicated to protecting America’s horses and strengthening the bond between horses and people.

At the core of our mission is that horses involved in any role and in any capacity - as athletes, companions, teachers and healers - are treated with dignity as partners.

We are committed to not only increasing adoptions of at-risk horses and providing a safe haven for aged horses, but also increasing opportunities for all people to engage and partner with horses in new, innovative ways.

For the Love of Horses Contact Us

203-259-1550 | mail@equusfoundation.org

Learn More www.equusfoundation.org

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