From the Horse’s Mouth

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

With Fiona Todd

Ihave to admit that I have no idea where the first half of this year has gone! I hope that for you it has been as interesting and exciting as it has for us over here at Equestrian Hub HQ. And with so many exciting plans for the coming months, I’ve no doubt the rest of the year will fly by!

And now to something near and very dear to my heart: the launch of the Equestrian Hub Mentorship program. Taking the place of Delivering Dreams, this program is truly amazing. All is explained in this issue, and if you own an OTT racehorse (hint) you’ll find our mentorship announcement every bit as interesting as our Life After Racing story on the major inroads Racing Queensland is making with their off the track program.

And as usual, this issue is packed full of advice, new innovations, and stories that will inspire you. Talking of inspiration, our Spotlight features the one and only Heath Ryan, who beat the odds when a stroke threatened his illustrious equestrian career. And if it’s fear that’s holding you back, Christine Armishaw explains how to get the upper hand and start enjoying the sport you love once again.

Did you know that helmet regulations have changed? We asked EA’s National Health and Safety Manager Meredith Chapman for an update and discovered that it’s time to get tagged.

Alison Lincoln has some great advice for getting your eventer fit, and if you’re preparing your horse for its first competition, or have a horse that spooks easily, you’ll absolutely love Felicity Davies’ training tips.

Of course, part of the fun of competing is reaching the next level, but the trick is to know when the time's right, so Christine Armishaw sourced some great advice from 5* Technical Delegate and Chair of the Equestrian Australia Eventing Committee Des Hughes. Meanwhile star vaulter Jamie Hocking takes a long hard look at what it means to be a good sportsman.

With winter coming on, keeping weight on a poor horse becomes even more important. At first glance, the answer might seem simple, but Holly Mills explains why that’s not always the case. And on the subject of wellbeing, you’ve arrived at the paddock only to find your horse has acquired a wound. What to do? Dr Doug explains the treatment basics in his always awesome Vet Vibes article.

Jessica Morton reports on her recent visit to Hungary’s Szilvásvárad Lipizzaner Stud, the world’s second largest Lipizzaner breeding facility, while Mathilde Gregoire explains why Spain’s ‘Wild West’ town is a horse lover’s paradise, plus our breed article is all about the Marismeño’s fascinating Iberian ancestry.

Still offshore, Tania Huppatz brings you a wrap of Saint Tropez’s glamorous Longines Athina Onassis Horse Show, and if you like the idea of glamour coupled with functionality, you’ll enjoy our interview with Stierna, an equestrian label based on style, quality and technology.

We also take a look at a breakthrough from Chinese researchers, a saddle capable of helping you to improve your balance and correct your position, and if you’re into comfort over long distances, Podium’s Italian designed saddles will gladden your heart. And let’s not forget our Saddle Review on the Ideal Ramsay, an absolute star in the show ring.

The delightful Sophie Warren, a professional event rider, horse trainer and coach, answers our 20 Questions, and Young Rider Amber Hamilton talks passaging around the feedlot.

And finally, there’s our real estate sneak peek, this time at a superb property in Queensland that boasts an extensive wine cellar – which reminds me, it must be time to pour your favourite tipple, relax, and enjoy!