Equestrian Hub Magazine Issue 7 2022

ISSUE 7 • 2022

Keep your athlete fighting fit Looking after a horse in heavy work

Respiratory noise Roaring, normal or not?

Tom McDermott

On a roll

Katrina Wüst

Clinic roundup

Winter Feature

Rugging and managing arthritis

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2 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 7 • 2022

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Editor Amanda McWhinnie amanda@equestrianhub.com.au Advertising Enquiries Sara Davies 0480 315 943 sara@equestrianhub.com.au The Saddle Hub Sales Enquiries Shae Herwig info@equestrianhub.com.au

Website www.equestrianhub.com.au Published by Equestrian Hub PO Box 13, Tintenbar NSW 2478 0414 760 067 info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au Follow Equestrian Hub  equesthub

On the Cover Tom McDermott and Warraleigh Park Cortez, winners of the recent Martin Collins Grand Prix (Image by OneEyedFrog Photography).

Creative Kimberley Bloom Design www.kimberleybloom.com.au kim@kimberleybloom.com.au

 equesthub

Sponsorship Enquiries Paula Campion 0409 627 756 paula@equestrianhub.com.au

THIS PUBLICATION IS PUBLISHED BY EQUESTRIAN HUB. MATERIALS IN THIS PUBLICATION HAVE BEEN CREATED BY A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT ENTITIES AND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE PUBLISHER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR MATERIALS CREATED BY OTHERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE OPINION OF THE PUBLISHER, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES. CONTENTS OF ADVERTISEMENTS ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE ADVERTISERS. ANY USE OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION IS AT THE SOLE RISK OF THE PERSON USING THAT INFORMATION. ©2021 EQUESTRIAN HUB EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY LAW, NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF EQUESTRIAN HUB. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION AND CREDITS ARE CORRECT WHEN GOING TO PRINT BUT MAY CHANGE AFTERWARDS.

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Contents 6 Our Contributors 9 From the Horse’s Mouth 10 Spotlight on Tom McDermott 16 Coaching with Christine 19 Ask an Expert: Dr Andrew McLean 23 Meet the Mentors 24 Feature: Assessing your horse’s personality 28 Feature: Feeding and fatigue 32 Vet Vibes: Managing arthritis 36 Nutrition: Processed feeds, what’s the story?

40 Training Tips: Plaiting perfection 46 Feature: A welcome visitor

ISSUE 7 • 2022

50 54 56 58 62 64 67 70 72 75 76 78

Feature: Keeping your athlete fighting fit International Trends: Pause for thought Feature: Noisy horses Tacked up: Winter rug roundup Life After Racing: Star turn Travel: Getaway to Colorado Fashion Trends: When innovation meets quality Breed: The mighty Morgan Property Central Saddle Review: Equipe Synergy Young Rider: Lauren Rowe 20 Questions with Warwick Schiller E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 5

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Dr Jennifer Stewart With over 40 years’ experience as a veterinarian in mixed and equine practice, Jennifer’s special interest is equine nutrition. She was Senior Veterinary Officer with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for 10 years, and for two years was Biosecurity Veterinarian with the ACT Government. Feeding and fatigue? It's a thing – and in this issue she explains why.

Amanda Mac As editor of Equestrian Hub Magazine, Amanda’s longstanding passions for horses, writing and photography, come together perfectly.

An ex-coach and competitor, she works behind the scenes with the amazing EH team to ensure every issue of the magazine brings you the very best in top quality stories, informative articles and great images.

Dr Clarissa BrownDouglas Clarissa is an equine nutritionist with Kentucky Equine Research Australia. Her PhD from New Zealand’s Massey University focussed on equine growth and development. As part of KER’s equine nutrition team, Clarissa has worked with feed manufacturers, breeders, trainers, and riders around the world. In this issue, she looks at the pluses and very few minuses of processed feeds.

Jessica Morton Jessica is a dual national New Zealand-Italian freelance journalist, equestrian traveller and writer. Currently based in Tuscany, she’s perfectly positioned to bring us the very latest in European equestrian trends and innovations. In International Trends, she discusses the Swiss Horse Industry Council’s recent welfare report, before finding out what’s new at renowned equestrian apparel company Kerrits.

Kate Fenner Kate is an equestrian coach, horse trainer, equine science lecturer and researcher with a PhD in horse behaviour, training and welfare. Kate has ridden, trained and competed in dressage, jumping, western and polo in Australia, Europe, USA and Asia. Her online training course teaches owners to train their horses themselves. In this issue she discusses assessing your horse’s personality.

Dr Calum Paltridge Graduating with First Class Honours in 2013, Calum has specialised in equine practice ever since. His professional interests are performance and race horses, with a particular focus on poor performance and lameness.

He has also spent many years breeding, training and competing stock horses, and in this issue we talk to him about the diagnosis and management of arthritis.

6 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 7 • 2022

Associate Professor Sam Franklin Sam is the Head of the Equine Department at the University of Adelaide, Australia.

She is a Registered Specialist in Equine Sports Medicine, focussing on cardiorespiratory disorders.

She has been involved with vaulting for 12 years and is an FEI Official Veterinarian. In this issue she discusses respiratory noise and explains what’s normal, and what’s not.

Mathilde Gregoire With over 40 countries visited, 20 on horseback, Mathilde combines her two greatest passions: horses and traveling.

Through writing, her mission is to inspire women and solo travellers to follow their dreams and embark on equestrian journeys around the world. In this issue she reports on the mighty Morgan and shares her visit to a winter wonderland dude ranch.

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Christine Armishaw Christine is a horse trainer, coach and passionate eventing and jumping rider. A Kiwi girl based in NSW, she teaches others not just how to ride, but also how to understand their horse. This month she has some tips for getting your horse over their float phobia, as well as helpful insights into keeping your equine athlete fighting fit.

Rebecca Ashton Rebecca is a Pilates instructor, dressage coach, FEI competitor and equestrian journalist. For the past 12 years she’s travelled the globe covering major shows as a writer and photographer.

She loves immersing herself in different equestrian cultures and interviewing those at the top of their game. In this issue she reports on 5* dressage judge Katrina Wüst’s recent clinic.

Rachel Roan Rachel has ridden her whole life. A passionate horse enthusiast who’s working to establish a small stud of dressage bred performance horses, her interest in writing and storytelling grew during her university media studies. She recently spoke to Tom McDermott, our July Spotlight, and to Dr Calum Paltridge to find out more about equine arthritis and its management.

Dr Andrew McLean Winner of the Eureka Prize for Science, Australia’s highest science award, Andrew is in great demand as a trainer, coach and speaker. He’s the CEO of Equitation Science International, has written five books, including an international best seller, authored 35 peerreviewed journal articles, and in this issue explains what can be learned from a horse’s ear and eye expressions.

Suzy Jarratt Suzy has lengthy and varied form as a writer and presenter.

She works for several Australian and overseas companies, is the author of three published books, and three years ago won an international award for equestrian journalism. In this issue she looks into the career of Lauren Rowe, our Young Rider, and talks 20 Questions with natural horseman Warwick Schiller.

Jo Mckinnon Jo is a multi-award winning horse racing and equestrian broadcaster, and documentary maker. A former top-level show rider who’s competed nation-wide with her hacks, she’s also a racing commentator of many years standing, and loves positive life after racing stories. In this issue she tells the story of Givenchy, the OTT who dazzles in the show ring.

Jamie Hocking Based in Denmark, Jamie was a 2020 Delivering Dream Scholarship recipient.

He’s the standing Australian National Champion in equestrian vaulting, holds a world ranking, and is determined to reach the top of his chosen sport.

In this issue he speaks with Dr Sam Franklin about noisy horses, to find out what's normal, and what's not.

Laura Champion Getting into showing horses when she was just 12 years old, her eagle-eyed attention to detail has helped Laura make her mark on the show horse scene. Laura now runs LVT Equine, a boutique agistment facility and busy show prep business servicing competitors at some of Australia’s best-known shows. In this issue, she shares her top plaiting tips.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 7

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Need nutritional advice? Visit our EQ Health Hub and ask our expert.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

From the Horse’s Mouth

As you probably know, at Equestrian Hub we’re all about horse welfare, so we were interested to find out what was in the Swiss Horse Industry Council’s latest ethics and welfare report. It’s a revised and expanded version of their 2011 document, and Jessica Morton gets us up to speed with an overview of some of the salient points.

With Fiona Todd

W

Is plaiting one of your least favourite things to do? If so, show prep whiz Laura Champion offers her considerable

elcome to our July issue

expertise in this issue’s Training Tips. We

– and what an issue it

also speak with Kerrits equestrian apparel

is! Let’s start off with

CEO Melissa Hubbard, and Jo Mckinnon

Spotlight, and this month we feature

introduces us to the world beater hack

Tom McDermott, who at 17 was the

Givenchy, another OTT success story.

youngest rider in the world to win a The easing of COVID travel restrictions

World Cup, and the show jumping

has allowed international 5* dressage

accolades have kept coming ever since.

judge Katrina Wüst to once again visit

In Ask an Expert Dr Andrew McLean,

our shores. She delivered an excellent

renowned horse behaviour expert and

training day while she was here, and

CEO of Equitation Science International,

Rebecca Ashton, who was lucky enough

explains what a horse’s ears, eyes and lips

to attend, shares the highlights in this issue. And if off-shore adventures

can tell us, while Dr Kate Fenner discusses

appeal, turn to our travel feature where

the Equine Behaviour and Assessment

Mathilde Gregoire tempts us with a

Research Questionnaire, which has

luxury dude ranch getaway located in

revealed some intriguing insights into

the middle of a winter wonderland.

our equine friends’ personality traits and

In this issue, we introduce you to two

characteristics: how many are fixed and

more of our wonderful Equestrian Hub

which can we influence.

Mentors, husband and wife team Shane

On the subject of influence, if you have

takes up the reins with a look at

and Mattea Davidson, as well as to Lauren

a float-phobic horse don’t miss Christine

processed horse feeds and why they

Rowe, our Young Rider from WA, who’s

Armishaw’s coaching column, where

really shouldn’t be a cause for concern.

making her mark in the dressage arena.

With winter now upon us, Rachel Roan

Our breed article is on the magnificent

you’ll find some useful tips which might just help you to get your horse on board.

spoke with Dr Calum Paltridge about all

Morgan, natural horseman Warwick

Also in this issue, Christine delves into

things arthritis, which can unfortunately

Schiller, always a delight, answers 20

keeping your athlete fit and healthy

affect horses of any age, often causing

while in heavy work; what that entails,

them to struggle in the colder months.

and how to go about it.

Meanwhile, Suzy Jarratt offers a timely

We’re right into the all-important topic

winter rug roundup, with some advice on

of nutrition this month, with a fascinating

selecting the appropriate apparel, a task

So, as always, pour a glass of your

article on feeding and fatigue from Dr

which can seem a tad confusing.

preferred tipple, sit back, relax and enjoy!

Jennifer Stewart, who explains why

Jamie Hocking had the opportunity to catch

Cheers,

what’s in the feed bin can help your

up with Assoc. Prof. Sam Franklin from

horse perform a task more easily,

Adelaide University’s School of Animal and

decrease their injury risk, and delay

Veterinary Science, and talked respiratory

fatigue. Dr Clarissa Brown-Douglas then

noise: what’s normal, what’s not.

of our most pressing questions, our saddle review is on the Equipe Synergy, and Property Central entices with yet another dream property.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 9

Greg turned his hand to racehorses, setting up a stable to break and train.

“They knew what the horse world entailed,

S P OT L I G H T

On a roll

so they never forced it onto me,” Tom recalls, “although they had a Shetland pony for my older sister and I, we weren’t super interested as young kids.”

But by age nine Tom had caught the bug. “Growing up, people would ask me what my hobby was outside of

At 17, Tom McDermott was the youngest show jumper in the world to win a World Cup, and as RACHEL ROAN discovered, the accolades keep rolling in.

riding, and I wouldn’t have an answer,” he laughs. “I used to tell them this is my hobby. This is what I love, it’s my passion. This is what I want to do.

Horses were it.”

Like many horsey kids Tom attended

F

Pony Club, getting serious about show

or Tom McDermott, riding horses

the World Cup League, the World Cup

jumping by the time he was twelve.

is in his blood. In their early years,

final, and with the Australian team at the

His first big show was the Australian

both his parents were talented

1988 Seoul Olympics. But after the tragic

Show Jumping Championships in Sale,

riders on the show jumping circuit.

loss of Greg’s Olympic horse in 1990,

Victoria, where he won the Junior

Tom tells me his mother Jennie had

the couple decided to pull the pin and

Australian title and still holds the record

competed up to 1.3m, later grooming for

settle down in Wagga Wagga, where

as the youngest ever to win that event.

his father Greg while he competed in

Tom was born and raised.

“After that it really kicked off,” he says.

10 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

He attributes his success in the years

and say, ‘we want that one for our

the same horse he won the Junior Title

that followed to his parent’s experience

son’. The horses were never anything

on. “We won nearly every Junior class

in choosing the right horses for him.

flash, their technique wasn’t anything

we went in – he was unreal for me.

“Mum and Dad had a very good eye

special and they weren’t easy, but they

He’s responsible for making me into the

for a horse,” he tells me. “You would

were always the right horse for me.”

rider I am now,” Tom reminisces. To this

always find a reliable old Thoroughbred

And it’s to this string of Thoroughbreds

day, he is always happy to buy an old

hurtling around A Grade at the local Ag

that Tom credits his early successes. It

Shows. My parents would spot those

started with a gelding called Zaydan;

schoolmaster: “You know they will come with their issues, but they’re worth it for what they can offer you.”

Despite attending a school that accommodated his competition commitments, with a riding career ahead of him, he convinced his mum to let him leave part way through Year 11. But there was one condition: he had to do the mowing and gardening every week. He laughs: “That’s how I ended up mowing on Fridays!”

FACING PAGE: Elegance de la Charmille is not the most conventional horse to ride, but has the heart of a lion.

ABOVE: Tom and Elegance de la Charmille were Senior Champions at the 2019 Australian Championships.

LEFT: Warraleigh Park Cortez and Tom at the 2021 Sydney Royal.

All images by Australian Jumping E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 11

these days he takes the losses with a grain of salt and looks for the lessons instead. “At the end of the day, it’s just a pole on the ground. As long as you do well and your horse does well that’s all you can aim for. Tomorrow is another day. There will always be another round to have another shot.”

Like many riders, Tom has had his fair share of setbacks. He acknowledges the long days, long hours, and the blood, sweat and tears necessary for success.

But that hasn’t deterred him. “Getting a rail down is always disheartening but being passionate about it helps you strive to be better every day.”

Learning early to ride a variety of horses, Tom says he still aims to gain something from each ride. “I used to love little horses that were super careful, very hot, maybe a little difficult to ride. But times are changing, you need to have a bigger horse with all the scope in the world, because when you get to the top end of the sport, it’s absolutely huge.”

With good Thoroughbreds now either hard to come by or too expensive, Tom’s focus has shifted to Warmbloods.

“I’ve had to change with the times. My ideal horse right now would be 17hh with endless scope and a little bit of blood.” He recalls that throughout his youth, many Thoroughbreds were still Tom came second in the 2022 Sydney Royal Grand Prix with Warraleigh Park Cortez.

competing in World Cup and 4* events.

“Maybe they breed them differently

By then, Tom was already coaching a

Competing is still what Tom loves most

handful of riders - all older than him - as

about riding. Growing up, he lived

well as training horses for other people

for competitions and found winters

and keeping his team of six competition

particularly tough when the shows shut

horses in work. In addition, he helped

down. “If there were no shows on, I

retrain the unsuccessful racehorses

would go crazy.” Part of show jumping’s

that came through his dad’s stables. “In

appeal has always been its clarity,

those days, off the track Thoroughbreds

there’s nothing subjective about it: “You

were a huge thing. I used to educate and turn over a lot of them and would always have up to eight in work, prepping them to sell.” With a full schedule of horses to work as well as his own team, Tom certainly had his hands

these days,” he ponders.

Now 28 years old, Tom runs his own racehorse business with his partner, who trains Thoroughbreds. “We have a lot of racehorse connections, but even with that, it’s still hard to find a Thoroughbred that will make the top grade.”

either get a rail down or you jump clean,”

Despite this, he believes they still

he explains. “You can be the best in the

have their place. “There are millions of

world one day and the next day you can

Thoroughbreds out there that will still do

have a disaster and be back where you started. It’s a very grounding sport.”

full. But he thrived: “I’m either very

As a young rider, Tom sometimes

committed to what I do, or I’m all out.”

dwelled on his mistakes, but says that

12 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

a good job at Interschools, Pony Club, or trail riding, but it’s difficult to find one that will cut it for the top grades. The top end of the sport is as tough as it’s ever been, the jumps are as big as they’ve

HORSES FOR SALE S P OT L I G H T

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S P OT L I G H T

I ask Tom what’s made him stick with the sport all these years: “I love the adrenaline. I feel like I ride better under pressure. If it’s a big World Cup or Grand Prix class, I thrive on being last out and having to do a quick, clean round. I ride better and my current horses are better with a bit of pressure.”

Tom’s list of achievements is long, with titles that include Junior Australian, Young Riders Australian, Senior Australian, and, of course, there’s that record as the world’s youngest winner of a World Cup Qualifier. But he’s humble about these results, acknowledging the team of people that have helped him get there. “It definitely takes more than one person to get you to that ring. It’s about everyone who helps you, supports you, looks after the horses.”

Tom still has big plans and is grateful for his current team. “I have four to five Grand Prix horses, so I can pick and choose the World Cup and Grand Prix events we Tom and his stallion Cachassini II at the 2019 Australian Championships.

compete in, and I have some nice young horses coming through.”

ever been. It’s really become a purpose-

One of his current stand-outs is

bred sport,” he explains. And while a

Elegance de la Charmille, a 16.1hh

handful of purebred Thoroughbreds

mare who Tom says is not the most

are still competing, Warmbloods have

conventional horse to ride, but has the

become the horse of choice.

heart of a lion: “I have all the trust in

return to America with a team of young

the world for her. I feel like I could do

horses next year. The World Equestrian

anything with her and she’ll fight for

Games and Olympics are also in his

me.” Charmille won the Australian Show

sights but he believes reaching these

Jumping Championships a few years

will happen when the time is right. “What

ago, a handful of World Cup classes, and

will be, will be. It all has to fall into place

some of the biggest Grand Prix classes

at the right time with the right horse,”

in Australia.

he says. He’s also aware of the financial

Alongside his racing business, Tom breeds a few foals each year each year but considers this a hobby. When it comes to finding the right competition horse, his advice is to sit on the horse, pop it over a pole, and get a feel for whether you click. “When buying a

Recently returned from America, Tom plans to chase World Cup points this year “for a bit of fun”, and hopes to

costs involved with taking horses

horse, you need to take a gamble if

Asked about other horses pivotal to his

you’re able to, because you never know

career, Tom rattles off a long list. “CP

what will happen. The breeding game

Rolex, Romantic Dream, SL Limerick

is such a long process and there are no

– they’ve all won World Cups, Grand

guarantees. You could have the best

Prix, or Junior or Senior titles for me. My

For now, Tom would first like to

bloodlines but still breed a foal with

most recent would be Charmille, Cortez,

experience the qualifying process, so

no scope. Some of the freakiest, best

and Alfa Activity.” The list goes on. “I’ve

he’s familiar with it before going all in.

horses in the world have not been the

been so fortunate to have sat on so

“In the meantime, I’ll just have some fun.

best bred, but they’re the ones with the

many good horses and done well on

Show jumping is in my blood and that’s

biggest hearts,” he adds.

them,” he says.

what I love the most.”

overseas to qualify, but recognises that that comes down to the level of risk you’re willing to take.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 15

mark. More realistically, there is a lack of training; or the horse has learnt to reliably find pressure relief away from the float; or the horse is scared and doesn’t fully

C OAC H I N G W I T H C H R I S T I N E

Floating with confidence

understand what is being asked of it; or a combination of these things.

Be well set up Make sure the float is secured to a vehicle. Check it is sound, paying close attention to the floor and ramp, which must be dry and in good order. Park on level ground with good footing - slippery surfaces are not suitable. Position the float in a way that allows in the most

If successfully loading your horse onto a float has so far eluded you, CHRISTINE ARMISHAW is here to help.

S

uccessful loading combines several factors. Your horse needs to be in a calm, learning state; you

need a good grasp of the concept of

daylight and open the front people doors. A horse’s eyes take longer to adjust to changes in light than ours, and this needs to be accounted for.

Put wood shavings on the floor towards

both comfortable and understands the

the rear of the float. Absorbing moisture

exercise, they will go on the float. It’s

from urine and manure will help prevent

your job to ensure these parameters

the area becoming slippery during transit. Plan to drive slower than normal,

pressure-release; and you need to have

are in place. Yes, horses may have had

plenty of time – a ticking clock never

previous experiences which make them

does anyone any favours.

hard to float. However, when someone

And this important point needs to be

says ‘he knows how to get on, he’s just

to stand steady. In fact, a youngster or

made at the outset: if your horse is

being difficult’, they are missing the

a horse that’s seldom travelled will find

16 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

it’s hard for your horse to balance and stabilise, and they need to build up the small but important muscles required

floating much more difficult than one

chest or front leg if this response is

of steps, this is where the learning is

who enjoys regular outings.

also heavy. Once these are properly

happening and it shouldn’t be overlooked.

Come with me

established, you are ready to move

Sometimes a horse is so resistant that

Before even presenting the horse to the

closer to the float.

they won’t go past a certain point.

float, always check it has a good lead-

As soon as you feel resistance to lead

Working them away from the float, then

response, that is, when you put pressure

pressure, the whip tapping should start

coming back to it again, redefining

on the lead rope, it promptly walks

again and stay on, even if the horse is

the float as the place they get to relax,

forward. If it doesn’t, which is usually

moving backwards. Stop the moment a

the case with a hard-to-load type, take some time to tune this aid. While putting forward pressure on the lead, use a long dressage whip as an extension of your arm and reach out to apply quick tapping on the horse’s side. As soon as

foot takes one step forward - yes, just

can help. However, guidance from a professional is recommended here.

one step! Work like this as your horse

Finally, don’t just aim to get your horse

slowly moves up to the float, onto the

on and lock the doors - once is never

ramp and inside. It can take a while, but

enough. Throughout the process,

that’s part of it.

during moments of calm standing, also ask the horse to quietly back off the

one front foot steps forward, both the

The back feet can be a sticking point,

lead pressure and tapping must stop.

but keep to the plan and be patient.

Tell the horse how amazing they are,

Be consistent in applying forward rope

because positive reinforcement helps to

pressure and whip tapping when the

seal the deal.

horse is not moving forward or is moving

The amazing places you can then go

Then repeat, with lead pressure as the

backwards (walk with it but keep the

together will make it all worthwhile.

first part of the aid, and whip tapping as

pressure on). Take all pressure off as

the follow-up if the horse doesn’t step

soon as you get one forward step, even

Now go to Equestrian Hub where you’ll

forward within two beats (two seconds).

if you’ve ended up ten steps away from

find a super helpful float loading video.

Timing is critical, the pressure must

where you started. Pepper the correct

stop as soon as the horse steps forward

responses with praise, using a soft voice

with one front foot. Make sure you

and pats (not slaps, they are not soothing).

have reverse too. Use backwards lead

Let the horse take as much time as it

pressure and tapping on the horse’s

needs to lick and chew at the completion

ramp, one step at a time. Regular float training will lead to a more confident loader, so build travel practise into your regular program to normalise it.

ABOVE LEFT: Put wood shavings on the floor towards the rear of the float.

ABOVE RIGHT: Make sure your horse has a proper 'go' response before attempting to put it on the float (Image

by Oliver Armishaw-Webb).

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ASK AN EXPERT

drawn further apart, or out to the side, or pulled back. If a horse is pinning their ears, it could indicate either anger or aggression, but it can also indicate pain. Often, pinned ears are just a feature of that particular horse’s temperament, especially if the behaviour is transient. For example, some will do it when they’re groomed around the rib cage. As an owner, you would need to investigate further to ascertain whether the behaviour is due to temperament, or the cause lies elsewhere.

In a calm, contented horse the ears are pretty mobile. Led or ridden, their ears should be moving: two ears forward, one ear back, that ear forward, another ear back and so on. If a horse is on very light aids and you use the left rein, the left ear should even move back a little in acknowledgement. If they’re on

ASK AN EXPERT

Dr Andrew McLean: Facial expressions DR ANDREW MCLEAN, CEO of Equitation Science International, explains how a horse’s ears, eyes and lips can speak volumes.

F

irst, it’s important to recognise that the areas of the brain involved in pain and stress are one and the same. Pain is a form of stress, and other than cortisol, which in stress has a much broader level of expression than with pain, there’s very little difference in the hormonal responses.

Another point to consider is that like humans, some of whom have more facial lines than others, horses’ facial

expressions also differ. So when you’re looking for facial indicators of pain or stress, you have to allow for the uniqueness of that particular horse. Once you know the horse, their expressions become easier to recognise.

There are now more than a dozen studies on the facial signs of pain in horses. A horse expresses pain through their eyes, ears and lips. Ears tell you a lot, especially when the ears are

It's important to recognise that the areas of the brain involved in pain and stress are one and the same. really strong aids they tend not to do that. Ideally, you really want ears that are listening – flipping backwards and forwards – a good sign that your horse is happy.

While a horse with its ears pricked forward might look good, particularly in photos, it’s actually often the first stage of alarm. It’s not really indicative of a happy moment; it’s an interested moment in which the horse is judging the depths of its safety. Or, they could also be looking for something, such as their food. Either way, pricked ears aren’t necessarily a sign of calm; the ears of a relaxed horse are generally looser.

The eye can tell you a very great deal if you look closely. For example, a horse in pain, or perhaps acting aggressively, will often show the white of their eyes. More E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 19

ASK AN EXPERT

subtle, however, is the expression formed by the skin around the eye. If the skin is tight it is often associated with pain or stress, and will frequently cause wrinkles above the eye that are not normally there. In contrast, when a horse is relaxed, the eye is ‘soft’ and expressive.

What is fascinating is that the emotional systems that control the eyes and ears aren’t necessarily voluntary, so pain and stress will immediately show up in those areas.

The lips are also interesting. Apart from more wrinkles at the corner of the mouth, in extreme stress the bottom lip will often be pulled back further than normal, rather like a parrot mouth. Many people are not always very good judges of these features. I know of at least two dressage textbooks where the picture on the front cover is of a horse that to me, looks quite stressed.

Illustration by Andrea Kuntbjer @ Karina Bech Gleerup

With regards mouthing the bit, I think the constantly moving mouth held as an ideal in classical dressage is actually incorrect. The mouth can move, lick, and chew occasionally, but more movement than that is likely a sign of stress. The horse is attempting to move the bit with its tongue because they’re not comfortable, and not clear with the signals they’re receiving.

In the same way that we humans dislike confusion and strive to resolve it, so too do animals. In behavioural science that’s defined as attempting to produce a predictable and controllable world. So if the bit is too strong, or clear signals aren’t being transmitted through the bit, the horse will express their confusion with intense mouth movements, and the more intense the movement, with the lips pulled back and the tongue constantly moving, the greater the problem.

Taking the time to understand the expressions that tell you whether your horse is anxious, stressed or in pain, or on the other hand is calm and content, is the mark of good horsemanship. I think not getting to know your horse in their

FACING PAGE: The muscle above the eye is contracted, indicating that the horse is stressed or in pain (Image courtesy Karina Bech Gleerup).

most relaxed state is a very great loss.

ABOVE: Ears flipping backwards and forwards are a sign of a happy, relaxed horse.

20 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

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22 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

The Mentoring Program Meet our mentors

Mattea Davidson

Shane Davidson

Mattea was introduced to horses through a school friend

Many young Australian riders dream of riding and training

whose father started the Brisbane Polo Club. She spent

in Germany, but a young Shane Davidson made his dream

her weekends grooming and riding polo ponies, until

come true. His first European trip was for six months,

she was able to lease a horse and begin competing in

later returning to Germany for several years to study in

Interschool and Pony Club events.

the world famous Bereiter program. While there, Shane

After leaving school, she spent time with Tom Doyle, a vet and a rider. She rode multiple horses, helped out with vet work, and also had lessons with Tony Manca, while gaining further experience working in Kevin McNab’s yard where she met future husband Shane Davidson.

Hooked on the idea of a career with horses, she was

had the privilege of training with some of the world’s best coaches, including dressage riders Hannes Baumgart, Ulla Salzgeber and Martina Hannover, show jumpers Gilbert Boeckmann, Joachim Heyer and Hans-Heinrich Engemann, and Olympic eventer Harry Klugmann.

Shane also competed his homebred stallion Fairbanks Catargo at the World Young Jumping Horse Championships

accepted into the University of Queensland’s Veterinary

in Lanaken, Belgium – the first time Australia had been

Science program. While completing her degree, she

represented in this prestigious breeding showcase.

continued to compete and train horses at the Davidson family’s property Fairbanks Stud, where Shane taught her to break in and start young horses according to the German system.

Since returning to Australia, Shane has produced horses who have carried him to success in the competition arena, earning his inclusion in elite squads. He’s a professional show jumper at World Cup level, a Level

The couple later founded Davidson Equestrian, with

II Coach, a professional trainer, and a committed

a focus on producing horses from birth to top level

breeder of elite performance Warmbloods. He has also

competition. Additionally, they’re kept busy teaching

trained to Grand Prix level dressage and has competed

young riders, and training, campaigning and producing

successfully in that discipline.

horses for sale.

Along with wife Mattea, Shane now owns and operates

A professional rider in CCI4* level eventing and World

Davidson Equestrian, a professional competition stable and

Cup show jumping, a Level II Coach, and a Competitive

established performance horse stud, with notable success

Edge Coach, Mattea is also actively engaged as an

in breeding horses for dressage, jumping and eventing.

equine veterinarian. Focused on equine reproduction and

They also offer agistment and training facilities designed

dentistry, she handles all Davidson Equestrian’s stud work.

to provide the optimum environment for every horse.

A professional CCI4* rider, Mattea is an equine veterinarian, a Level II Coach and a Competitive Edge Coach (Image by Oz Shotz).

Shane is a professional show jumping rider at World Cup level, a Level II Coach, and a professional trainer (Image by Oz Shotz).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 23

Collectively, the team developed the Equine Behaviour and Assessment Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) as

F E AT U R E

a means of gathering data across as many breeds, ages, disciplines and

Assessing your horse’s personality

backgrounds of horses as possible.

The questionnaire asks you to record observations of your horse, along with questions about their training, management, and behaviour, ultimately uncovering their levels of trainability, rideability, confidence and much more.

Upon completing the survey, participants

Like humans, horses express their personalities through their behaviour. And that’s something in which DR KATE FENNER has long been interested.

H

orse personality traits and characteristics: how many are fixed and which can we influence? Questions Dr Kate Fenner, with a PhD in equine behaviour and training, has set out to answer, along

are presented with a graph that shows how their horse’s personally ranks in thirteen different categories, and how those rankings compare to the rest of the E-BARQ population. It shines a light on

with fellow University of New England researcher Professor Paul McGreevy, Dr Andrew McLean of Equitation

where it’s best to focus your training, and being a longitudinal project, you have the option of improving your horse’s results over time. “You can go away and work

Science International, and Professor

with your horse in the areas in which

James Serpell, University of Pennsylvania.

they’re lacking, then come back in six

24 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

months, re-test and see the benefits your training has had,” Kate explains.

A key point with the E-BARQ study compared to others is that it eliminates subjectivity. “We’ve asked really objective questions. We never ask you to interpret your horse’s behaviour, rather, how frequently you see the behaviour,” Kate says. This eliminates the very typical human desire for owners to allow their biases around their horse’s tendencies to skew their answers.

Behind the scenes, the researchers are on a welfare orientated mission. “We look at the data to see how different breeds and ages, and different training techniques, all influence the horses’ behaviour,” Kate says, adding that it’s already well-documented that behaviour has a big impact on welfare.

She delves deeper: “With horses whose behaviour deteriorates, their welfare often deteriorates at the same time. It’s really important for us as researchers to know what’s promoting that.”

Fundamentally, the E-BARQ team have set out to discover what it is that’s going wrong with horses whose behaviour deteriorates, and even more importantly, how it might be fixed.

Intriguing insights

FACING PAGE: Working on improving different aspects of your horse's personality can make them more confident and safer to ride.

ABOVE: A horse showing resistance to being haltered, bridled or restrained is more likely to buck under saddle.

independence is a little more set in

we unfairly been giving mares a hard

stone,” Kate explains. Independence,

time? Kate has an opinion: “For a long

By reaching out to horse owners across

or lack of it, refers to a horse’s herd

time, mares have had a bad reputation -

the globe, the ongoing results, which

behaviour, whereas boldness alludes to

people saying ‘a good mare on a good

include data from over 5,000 horses

their attitude to new things.

day’, or a ‘good mare is very brave’, but

and counting, have already been rather insightful, and not as you might expect.

So far, the team have written several papers looking at various topics.

By analysing certain behaviours in-hand, the researchers identified a series of

there is always a qualifier there. It has to be a ‘good’ mare or ‘good’ day.”

red flags for when the horse was ridden:

So, the researchers went looking for

horses that did not easily load in a

differences under saddle, which is where

When investigating the impact of male

float were more likely to show conflict

most people lay on prejudices thick and

versus female handlers and riders, they

behaviour such as rearing under saddle;

fast but, curiously, they didn’t find any.

found that horses handled by males

those with low social confidence around

"Aside from a couple of little differences

were more likely to be difficult to catch

other horses or animals were more

from the ground, sex-based differences

and defensive when approached.

likely to bolt; and horses that showed

were practically non-existent,” she says.

However, when ridden by males, these

resistance to being haltered, bridled or

The only characteristics they could

horses were less likely to pull on the

restrained were more likely to throw in

identify were that geldings were more

reins or toss their heads.

a buck. Science suggests it’s well worth

likely to be mouthy and chew on ropes

taking the time to do that groundwork!

and rugs than mares, while mares could

was another topic of interest: which

Mares versus geldings

be slightly more difficult to catch.

personality traits change and which stay

A somewhat surprising finding was that

There are probably those who, when

the same over time? “For example, we

the age-old bugaboo of mares versus

first mulling over this research result,

found boldness can be changed, while

geldings is not actually a thing. Have

would beg to differ. But as Kate explains,

Changes in behaviours as a horse ages

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 25

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F E AT U R E

Kate gives shying, which ranks as number one out of all the possible unwanted behaviours, as an example: “If you’ve got a horse that shies, it’s going to score quite poorly on boldness [in the E-BARQ survey], while potentially still scoring quite well in other areas.

Armed with new knowledge, your training could start to encompass additional components specifically aimed at helping the horse to become braver and more engaged – good areas to work on for a horse lacking in boldness.”

Before realising this, a rider may have jumped to the conclusion that their horse was simply too much for them, and that they needed to move them on and get something quieter. But in analysing a horse’s strengths and weaknesses, the E-BARQ assessment gives riders and handlers a unique insight into the inner workings of The E-BARQ assessment allows handlers and riders to gain unique insight to the inner workings of their horse (Image courtesy Kandoo Equine).

people tend to have preconceived ideas which impact the way they handle horses of different sexes and their expectations of them. “If I go into a lesson with the assumption that the mare doesn’t understand or just doesn’t have the education to do what I want her to do, I’m more likely to be proactive and teach the thing I want her to do. But if I go in with the assumption that she is bossy or rude, then I’m going to be more reactive and I’m likely to punish her for that behaviour,” Kate says. And that can

Reaping real world benefits Discovering your horse’s baseline characteristics can be a game changer.

“What E-BARQ does is give people a focus and a better understanding of their horse’s behaviour as a whole,” says

their horse. Discovering how your horse interacts with the world around them means a more targeted training program can be implemented, ultimately benefiting your horse as an individual and both of you as a combination.

You can complete the E-BARQ survey here, and learn more about Kate’s services at Kandoo Equine. And for

Kate, and this includes revealing why

more on her research discoveries, plus

your horse might engage in less than

her top tip for horses with a tendency to

desirable behaviours.

pull back, go to Equestrian Hub.

be a slippery slope. As soon as a trainer starts going down the punishment road, the horse’s environment becomes less and less predictable, and so the horse gets more and more anxious and their behaviour deteriorates. “We really want to always try to remain proactive, and teach the horse something,” she adds.

The conclusion here is to treat each horse as an individual. Yes, there are, for various reasons, some horses who are more challenging than others, but we need to leave outdated biases, particularly regarding human-gendered ideals, at the stable door.

The E-BARQ assessment graph shows a horse’s personally ranking in thirteen different categories.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 27

waste products and decreasing energy reserves; and central fatigue linked to falling brain serotonin (the

F E AT U R E

Feeding and fatigue

‘happy’ hormone), which is associated with decreased motivation, lethargy, tiredness and incoordination.

Fatigue in flat racing, eventing, polo, show jumping and carriage horses is a different combination to fatigue in endurance and trail horses, and in dressage and arena horses performing

What’s in the feed bin can help your horse perform a task more easily, decrease their injury risk and delay fatigue, writes DR JENNIFER STEWART.

H

orses are elite athletes, reaching speeds up to 88.5kph, with a heart that

every minute can beat 240 times and pump 300 litres of blood, and lungs that can breathe 120 breaths a minute and move 60 litres of air a second. Ultimately

complex manoeuvres. Genetics and training determine athletic potential how close a horse comes to reaching potential is affected by nutrition.

Nutrition and training should minimise

however, fatigue limits performance and they either stop exercising or slow down.

the exercise-induced changes that herald

Three broad categories of fatigue can occur alone or in combination.

Structural fatigue from poorly trained or tired tendons and muscles; metabolic fatigue from increasing body heat,

familiarise the muscles with the demands

28 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

fatigue. The purpose of training is to of the discipline. The diet must support this with different forms of energy, the correct protein array, micronutrients, antioxidants and vitamins.

F E AT U R E

Energy: The main limiting nutrient is energy. Traditionally supplied by grains, there are now much safer, more natural ways to fuel muscles. Providing three times the energy of grains, oils increase the speed of mobilisation, uptake, and storage of energy by the working muscles. Falling blood glucose levels precipitate fatigue and oils exert a sparing effect on blood glucose by providing the muscles with an alternative source of fuel.

This glucose sparing delays the onset of fatigue, so that although horses cannot increase their maximum effort, they can maintain it for longer. Roughages such as beet pulp (soaked and fed at up to three kilograms a day) and early-cut, highly digestible hays also offer benefits by avoiding the swings in blood glucose and insulin, and the acidosis associated with grains. This alkalising effect is a natural way to counteract some of the acid buildup induced by intense exercise. The gradual introduction of 500 to 1,000ml of oil to the diets of working horses can delay the onset of fatigue. And some exciting recent research has found that Warmblood dressage mares on high fibre, oil-enriched diets had higher levels of serotonin.

FACING PAGE: Horses are elite athletes, but ultimately fatigue limits performance.

ABOVE: Access to fresh, clean water should always be available.

endurance exercise, heat exhaustion

cent – meaning a horse can work for 23

is more often due to dehydration

per cent longer before getting tired.

and electrolyte loss – both of which

But no amount of energy can improve

contribute to premature fatigue. Even

stamina and strength – for this we need

mild dehydration has been shown to

protein, or more specifically, essential

reduce performance because the blood

amino acids (EAA). Each tissue has its

volume is smaller and the heart must

own ‘recipe’ of EAA. Regardless of the

work harder to maintain circulation.

percentage protein of a feed, if there is not enough of each EAA, a limit to muscle and red cells synthesis is set, and the other essential amino acids cannot be used and are stored as fat. When this occurs, horses will lay down fat instead of building muscle, blood and bone. Soy, lucerne and whey are all good sources of essential amino acids to help your horse build muscle mass and strength.

The range of electrolyte supplements is huge. Generally, the higher the sodium chloride content, the better the product.

Anything with more than 15 per cent sugar/glucose should be avoided.

Electrolyte paste syringes should deliver

Our task is to ensure our horses have

at least 20 to 30gms of electrolytes

enough salt (sodium chloride) and water

per dose. You can make excellent

before, during and after exercise. For

electrolyte mixes at home using straight

horses doing moderate daily exercise in cool to moderate temperatures, 25g of salt twice a day increasing to 50g twice a day in hot weather is a good rule of thumb. Calcium and magnesium intake should be doubled in hot weather and supplementation is recommended as

salt, or a 3:1 ratio of salt to potassium chloride (Lite or Lo-salt) in honey or apple sauce with cornflour thickening.

Adding salt to drinking water should be done with great care – limit salt addition to 30gms (one tablespoon) per five litres of water and make sure fresh water is

Regulating body heat: Regulating body

most diets are deficient. Free access to

heat is a formidable challenge. When

water and electrolytes during prolonged

humidity is high, overheating during

exercise can increase the time it takes

There is also a cookie recipe you can

strenuous exercise is a real risk. In

for a horse to fatigue by nearly 23 per

try: two cups of grain, two cups of

also available.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 29

30 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

F E AT U R E

which are common dietary deficiencies in horses. Using multiple supplements in an attempt to meet individual vitamin and mineral requirements often leads to overlap of some nutrients, deficiencies in others and imbalances. Avoid this by feeding a balanced supplement containing the recommended amounts of each vitamin and mineral.

Strategic timing: Timing the feeding of certain nutrients also delays fatigue and improves post-exercise recovery and response to training. Feed EAA and antioxidants before work, and to provide protein and energy to refuel after work, 1kg of oats + a nutrientdense supplement + 50g salt + free access to water. This takes advantage of the window of opportunity created by increased muscle blood flow during exercise and for three hours after, allowing nutrients to be delivered as the Take great care when adding salt to drinking water, with no more than 30gms per five litres.

muscle demands them.

rolled oats, 650 grams of electrolyte

Sooner or later fatigue will occur in all

mix (commercial or homemade), three cups bran, one to two cups of water, and one cup of molasses, maple syrup, or applesauce. Mix well and divide into 24 cookies. Cook at 175°C for 25 to 30 minutes. Each cookie has around 30gms of electrolytes.

and competing in hot/humid weather.

Muscle waste products: Free radicals are a waste product released when oxygen is used to produce energy and

exercising horses. What’s in the feed bin can help them perform a given task more easily, decrease injury risk, and delay fatigue onset. If the horse has the

they increase during exercise. Onboard

right nutrients, they’re likely to voluntarily

antioxidant defence systems mop up

perform at a higher level than if they have

oxidants, lengthening the time before

insufficient fuel and other nutrients.

they can damage muscle cell function

Further complicating the heat build-

and compromise performance, but there

up during exercise is competition for

Dr Jennifer Stewart BVSc BSc PhD

is an absolute requirement for vitamins

blood flow. Blood flow to the muscles

is an equine veterinarian, consultant

E and C, and minerals selenium, copper,

increases seventy-fold during hard work,

nutritionist, and CEO of Jenquine Equine

magnesium, manganese and zinc, all of

Clinical Nutrition.

but as body heat rises, blood is diverted away from the muscles and sent to the skin for cooling. Competition between the muscles and the skin can decrease muscle blood flow, oxygen and glucose, hastening the onset of fatigue. Oils offer significant and unparalleled advantages here, with one report showing total body heat production decreased by 14 per cent when horses were fed an oilenriched diet. Oils also reduce anxiety, heart rate, excitability and the energy used in reducing body temperature – especially important for horses training

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 31

VET VIBES

Managing arthritis Unfortunately, arthritis can affect horses of all ages. RACHEL ROAN spoke to veterinarian Dr Calum Paltridge to learn more.

A

rthritis can be a problem for horses at any age, so I asked Dr Calum Paltridge for a

rundown on arthritis, what it involves, and the treatments available.

In a horse with arthritis, lameness is often the first noticeable symptom. “We get a lot of horses that just aren’t going right; they’re not travelling properly. They may not even be overtly lame but they’re not comfortable,” Calum explains.

However, poor performance and discomfort can be caused by other problems, making it challenging to know if arthritis is the culprit or not. And that, Calum tells me, is why it’s important to investigate the issue thoroughly. In horses that develop arthritis, signs can include lameness, a reduced range of motion, heat in their joints, and swelling.

Arthritis may be the result of an autoimmune disorder, which is rarely reported, or down to osteochondritis

32 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

dissecans (OCD), a developmental disease affecting the cartilage and bone in the joints causing fragments of bone to become loose. “While a lot of research has been conducted into OCD, vets still don’t really know what causes it or how to best prevent it. It’s likely to have a genetic and nutritional component behind it,” Calum suggests.

The most common type of arthritis is wear and tear osteoarthritis, often seen in performance horses. However, regardless of the cause, the impact is the same: lameness, pain and reduced performance. But can you still ride a horse with arthritis? That depends.

Arthritis can range all the way from very mild changes, which Calum believes will develop in most performance horses to some degree over their lifetime, up to the crippling arthritis most noticeable in aged horses that struggle in the colder months.

Diagnosis begins with a full lameness exam, including a trot up, nerve blocks, and flexion tests. However, X-rays or imaging are required for a definitive diagnosis, as tendon or ligament issues can also present in a way similar to

VET VIBES

arthritis. While the use of MRI on horses is still uncommon in Australia, it’s a popular diagnostic tool overseas, with the highquality 3D imaging giving a much more comprehensive view of the problem.

“A two-dimensional X-ray of complex structures such as joints will never give you the same quality of images as 3D scans, making diagnosis more difficult,” Calum says, adding that CT scans are a good option for imaging bones and not as expensive as MRI technology.

A common misconception is that arthritis is age related, but that’s not the case.

The prognosis also depends on the horse’s discipline and level of physical stress; a 4* eventer is likely to have a different outcome to a trail riding horse.

And while cold weather doesn’t cause actual arthritic changes, the symptoms often become more noticeable with horses taking longer to warm up.

The first line of treatment is an antiinflammatory such as bute. While anti-inflammatories don’t cure, they will alleviate symptoms to make the horse feel better. However, it does rule you out of competing.

Compounds such as pentosan are aimed at assisting the health of the joint through improving the quality of joint fluid and the cartilage, thereby reducing arthritic symptoms and slowing down its effects.

These compounds, Calum tells me, work systemically on the whole horse and every joint, making the horse more comfortable in their movement. As with any medication, they vary in their efficacy.

Calum notes that one of the biggest factors relating to a successful outcome is at what point owners start their horse’s treatment: “A lot of people don’t

As a general rule of thumb, horses started younger tend to develop arthritis at a younger age. So does starting a horse before they fully mature have an impact on the development of arthritis, and does the type of work they do also play a role? "It's a really contentious topic," Calum comments. “Some research has shown that controlled exercise in horses, as young as even six months old, doesn't have negative effects, yet other studies have shown that it does. I think to some extent it benefits horses to wait for them to mature skeletally. Having said that, in a large cohort of young horses, some will go on to develop arthritis and some won’t. It’s not black and white.”

Although there’s uncertainty over whether riding a horse before it’s fully matured contributes to the onset of arthritis, Calum is of the opinion that the amount of work a horse has had, not necessarily the age, is a key factor. “A horse that develops arthritis at the age of six years, after two years of work, is no different to a horse that develops it at age 10 if they were started at eight years old.”

While a diagnosis of arthritis can be hard to hear, the outcome isn’t necessarily going to be negative. Depending on the joints affected and the severity of the arthritis when diagnosed, many treatments can lead to a good prognosis. While arthritic changes cannot be reversed, they can definitely be managed. “The prognosis for mild arthritis is usually pretty good, but it takes a fair bit of managing, and it is a degenerative disease,” Calum warns.

FACING PAGE: The prognosis for arthritis can depend on the horse’s discipline and level of physical stress ABOVE: Arthritis is not restricted to older horses; it can be a problem at any age.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 33

VET VIBES

reach for a remedy until the horse is actually lame and having issues. They often expect miracles, but that’s just never going to happen.”

For riders who compete at higher grades, the best option is to start their horse on a joint supplement or treatment designed to help prevent wear and tear.

“In my opinion, all horses are going to develop some degree of arthritis,” Calum says, “but by starting a horse on treatments when they begin work, you’ll get much more benefit than if you wait until they go lame. A lot of people don’t do it, but I think it’s a really good idea.

It can also aid the recovery process.

There’s no way to prevent arthritis but you can definitely slow its progression.”

Other more specific treatments involve injecting directly into the joint.

Cortisone is a relatively cheap and effective treatment that has been in use for some time with humans as well as horses, although how well it works depends on a variety of factors.

Hyaluronic acid can increase the viscosity, or thickness, of the joint fluid, and it is often injected alongside cortisone.

In the last decade, biological therapy has become more prominent. In this approach, a small quantity of the horse's blood is taken and processed to produce the interleukin receptor antagonist protein, which modulates inflammatory responses. “Horses naturally produce this anti-inflammatory, but by processing it and injecting it back into the joint we’re providing it with a lot more than it would naturally produce,” Calum explains. While this treatment is one of the most effective, at

34 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

nearly $3,000 per course it is also very expensive and is usually used once the horse has gone lame.

As with every aspect of caring for your equine partner, talking to your vet and equine nutritionist for help in developing a targeted approach to supporting your horse’s joint health will always beat waiting until they trot up lame.

Dr. Calum Paltridge (BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS) is the owner and veterinarian at Thunderbolt Equine Veterinary Services in Armidale, NSW. ABOVE LEFT: X-ray of a very severely arthritic fetlock (Courtesy of Thunderbolt Equine Veterinary Services).

ABOVE RIGHT: The most common type of arthritis is wear and tear osteoarthritis, often seen in performance horses.

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used to make feeds such as soybean meal and hulls, rice bran, and beet pulp.

For concentrates, processing enables the manufacturer to make consistent products. In turn, the products become safer, easier to chew, and more appetising for the horse. Processed forages such as hay cubes or pellets can make the most efficient use of limited storage space, fill in when a hay crop has failed, make it easier to carry feed when travelling, guarantee a consistent intake of nutrients, simplify ration balancing, and help horses with problems such as poor teeth or respiratory tract disorders.

Grain and forage processing Grains are processed to increase digestibility. Crushing, cracking and grinding, particularly of corn and lupins, are performed to reduce the particle size. Other effective processing methods are crimping, flaking, and the rolling of oats and barley. These techniques open the outer coat of the grain to aid chewing. Adding heat to

NUTRITION

these processes to produce steamrolled, steam-flaked, and micronised

Processed feeds, what’s the story?

grains improves starch digestibility.

Sun curing or quick drying hays and beet pulp reduces the moisture content of roughages so they will not mould.

Chopping forages to shorten fibre length, and, although not common in Australia, ensiling or anaerobic fermentation of forage to preserve its

Processed is a word that some horse owners shy away from. DR CLARISSA BROWN-DOUGLAS explains why processed feeds should not be a cause for concern.

F

nutrients, are all forms of processing.

Feed processing Feed processing is least complex when grains are mixed and coated with oil and molasses to create a sweet feed. More elaborate processing changes the entire form of a mixture of feed ingredients,

eed proceeding methods have

human nutrition, horse feeds are a far

as with pelleting or extruding, in

been researched and developed

cry from our sugar-laden snacks!

which ingredients are ground to

to help horses, not harm

Purpose of processing

improve digestion rate, and decrease

them. Even the practice of baling and

The goal of processing horse feeds is

segregation and mixing problems.

preserving hay is a form of processing.

to make the feed better for either the

Pelleting

So, what’s going on? While super-

horse or owner. Processing improves

Pelleted feeds have become

processed food has a bad reputation in

digestibility, extends its shelf life, or is

commonplace. They provide the same

36 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

NUTRITION

bag. To combat this problem, molasses became commonplace in sweet feeds.

Molasses, combined with the addition of mixing pellets, has resolved all problems associated with fines.

The trick to recognizing a good quality pellet is to look for relatively long, hard pellets (except for pellets used in special senior concentrates) with good colour, uniformity, a dull surface, and few to no fines. When a pellet can be handled repeatedly without falling apart, it is considered durable, an important consideration when evaluating pellets.

Extruding Extruded nuggets are made from many of the same ingredients as pelleted feeds. The grains are ground and mixed with all other ingredients, and then cooked with moist heat at about 127°C. Even more complete gelatinisation of starches occurs during extrusion than FACING PAGE: The practice of baling and preserving hay is a form of processing.

during pelleting. The extrusion occurs

ABOVE: Pelleting causes gelatinisation of grain starches, making them more available for enzymatic digestion.

when the mash is exposed to cooler air,

balance of nutrients as sweet feeds

to handle, and don’t go rancid as readily

but in a more convenient form. In the

as sweet feed in the summer.

pelleting process, ingredients are ground to the same particle size, mixed with a pellet binder, and then steam heated to 82-87°C for about 20 seconds.

The mash is pushed through a pellet die of the desired size, cooled, and dried to prevent mould growth. With forage pellets, the forage is dehydrated, ground, mixed with a pellet binder, and then pressed through the die.

Some horse owners question the effects of heat treatment on the viability of vitamins and minerals added to the pellet.

Heat normally will not affect the minerals because they are inorganic. Vitamins are generally coated in a special gel to protect them from oxidation and are made to tolerate short bouts with heat.

However, if the pelleting process is not done correctly and the pellets become

Pelleting causes gelatinisation of

too hot, availability of vitamins and

grain starches, making them more

possibly chelated minerals may decrease.

available for enzymatic digestion. This is

and it begins to expand and pop, much like pop-corn. The nuggets are dried to a moisture level of about 10 per cent before being bagged.

Many of the advantages of pelleting also hold true for extruded feeds. One additional advantage is the ability to add high levels of fat. With oil in the mash and oil sprayed on the outside of the nugget, fat levels can be as high as 20 per cent. Because of high temperatures during processing, preservatives are not always necessary (except with high fat nuggets), another benefit. The heat does affect vitamin levels, but because vitamin degradation is expected, manufacturers

Fine ingredients are usually combined

put in extra vitamins to compensate for

into a mixing pellet and then used in

losses. Energetically, extruded feeds have

sweet feeds. The mixing pellet usually

the edge in digestibility over conventional

contains the protein sources and vitamin

grain, sweet feeds, and pelleted feeds.

and mineral premix. The mix blends

The form also slows feed intake, which is

better if all the ingredients are about the

advantageous if the horse eats its feed

Pelleting also offers other benefits.

same size. Manufacturers of sweet feeds

too quickly. However, it is difficult to get

Because the grains are ground to the

once had a problem with fine ingredients

a horse in need of a large quantity of

same size, there is no sorting out of fine

sifting to the bottom of feed batches, so

feed to eat enough of an extruded ration.

ingredients. Pellets are also convenient

the mix may have been different in each

Extruded feeds are very low in fines and

particularly beneficial for pellets made with substantial amounts of ground corn.

But if the pellets looks very shiny, an indication that only partial gelatinisation has occurred, they should be avoided.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 37

NUTRITION

With their large crystalline structure, corn and barley starch molecules are not easily broken down by the amylase enzyme. However, heating makes the molecules more vulnerable to amylase and subsequent digestion. In a recent study, different forms of corn were compared by looking at their glycemic index, a measure of small intestinal digestibility. When horses were fed cracked or ground corn, there was little difference in glycemic index, but when steam-flaked corn was fed, the glycemic indexes were significantly higher.

The steam treatment made the corn molecules much easier to digest. Many horse owners boil barley to feed their horses, another method to gelatinise the starch and improve digestibility.

Digestibility is important because when grain escapes digestion in the small intestine and passes through to the large intestine, the microbial population ferments the starch. The by-product of Processed forages such as hay cubes or pellets guarantee a consistent intake of nutrients.

starch fermentation is lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the large intestine, making it more acidic. The more acidic the

dust, which makes them ideal for horses

small intestine, where it’s energetically

with respiratory problems.

of most benefit to the horse.

There is a downside to extruded

The problem with processing oats is that

can lead to issues with hind gut acidosis

feeds. They are more expensive to

once the integrity of the grain’s outer wall

including colic, poor performance, and

manufacture and are bulkier than other

is broken, the inside is exposed to air,

laminitis. Keeping the microbial population

feeds, and therefore require more

which begins oxidation and the eventual

in balance with a desirable pH is essential

storage space. Palatability can be an

breakdown of nutrients. If the grain is

to the health of the horse.

issue because of the unfamiliar form.

steam or heat treated, its nutritional value

In summary, horse owners should not

Processed Grains

lasts longer, because the enzymes in

necessarily shy away from processed

the grain that cause deterioration will be

feeds. Feed processing can improve

denatured by the heat.

digestibility and palatability of grains

Oats: Traditionally, oats are the feed of choice for horses because of their palatability and margin of safety, thanks

The limiting factor to oat digestibility is

mainly to their high fibre content. Even

the horse’s ability to chew oat grains.

with as little processing as cleaning the

If whole grains are showing up in the

beards off, they are still a very digestible

manure (not just the hull), then it is time

source of energy for the horse.

to evaluate the horse’s teeth. Aged

Additional processes such as crimping, steaming, cooking, or rolling do not

horses who are losing teeth would benefit from processed oats.

environment, the unhealthier it is for the fibre-digesting microbial population, which

and other ingredients, and provides a convenience to the horse owner. That said, incorrect processing and the use of poor quality ingredients will result in poor feed. So always look for a reputable manufacturer that specialises in quality equine feeds made according to the latest in equine nutrition knowledge.

increase digestibility enough to make

Corn and Barley: Contrary to oats,

it worth the extra processing cost. The

processing corn and barley is beneficial.

Take the guess work out of formulating

major energy source in oats is starch,

Both are higher in starch than oats, but in

a healthy diet for your horse with the

which is easily attacked by the enzyme

order for the horse to get the most out of

Kentucky Equine Research free diet

amylase so it can be digested in the

this starch, it needs to be heat processed.

analysis.

38 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

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Now thirty, Laura’s show preparation expertise has become an essential part of her full-time gig. “I professionally plait

TRAINING TIPS

for anything from Ag shows to Royals,

Plaiting perfection

for Horse of the Year and anything in between,” she says. Along the way, she was lucky enough to groom for renowned show hack rider Mark Kenzig, which really refined her technique. So, what is a good plait versus a bad plait,

Plaiting: the struggle is real! We asked show prep expert LAURA CHAMPION for her top tips.

F

and how can we all improve on ours?

A perfect plait Chances are you’re going to braid your

irst getting into showing horses

stuck into perfecting the art. “All the kids

when she was just twelve years

would have their ponies tied up around

old, eagle-eyed attention to

the stables, and one by one I would go

horse’s mane the day before the show, so the plaits have to withstand being covered with a hood, being knocked about by the horse, and travel to the venue.

detail and tons of repetition has enabled

round and practise plaiting them up,”

Laura Champion to make her mark on

she recalls. That practise made perfect

Laura’s number one tip is tension.

the show horse scene.

and Laura became so skilled that her

“My favourite motto is if your hands

friends started paying her to plait their

aren’t hurting, you’re not doing it tight

After her trainer had given her two mane

ponies for competitions. “I got maybe

enough!” she grins. The initial plait has

plaiting demonstrations, Laura was told

ten bucks and a ride on their horse, and

to be so snug and firm that by the time

the job was now up to her, so she got

it was great!” she laughs.

you sew it in, it’s not going anywhere.

40 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

Specifically, you need to apply more

look to the braid. It can make a skinnier

tension when you are first starting the

neck look fatter,” she explains. Each plait

plait. That’s how you stop those little

is then secured with rubber bands and

wispy, flyaway bits. The quality of the

the very ends of the hair are trimmed off

plait is what affects the overall quality

before sewing the rosettes. “And I always

of a finished rosette, and if Laura is not

check every braid is even, and every one

happy with it at this stage, she’ll undo it

is exactly the same,” she adds.

and plait it again.

If there is a left over wispy bit near the

Laura always braids a mane the same

wither, which is not enough to bunch into

way. Starting near the poll, she first

a rosette, Laura recommends using hair

divides the mane into even sections: “I

gel on the morning of the competition to

don’t stick to a certain number of braids,

smooth it down and keep it flat. “Pulling

I divide according to the individual horse to do their head and neck justice,” she explains. To enhance the horse’s natural conformation, a pony with a shorter neck looks best with smaller braids and more

My favourite motto is if your hands aren’t hurting, you’re not doing it tight enough!

it into a braid may compromise the hair, and there’s a risk of pulling the hair out and making the problem worse,” says Laura, who gives the same advice when mane is missing due to a neck rug rub: “The best plan is to change your regular mane care routine to help rectify this situation for future events, as forcing the hair into a rosette may result in losing the whole chunk.”

To band or sew While Laura uses rubber bands to tie off a braid, she is firmly in the sewing camp when it comes to securing her rosettes.

In her opinion, sewing done well is a

of them, while a really big Warmblood

thousand times better than banding

requires fewer, slightly larger braids.

because it’s much more secure, a key

“But you don’t want to go too big,” she

reason why her rosettes stay in place.

cautions, pointing out that golf ball sized

“I’ve had clients attend three day shows

rosettes are never attractive.

A rough mane division guide is to use two to three fingers’ worth of hair, which results in a tightly finished braid about one finger wide. Before plaiting the entire mane, Laura recommends doing one braid right through from plait to completed rosette to check if the hair division you have chosen works. Then simply mark the width off on your mane comb with a piece of thread and you’re good to go.

Laura usually uses a standard three

and my braids last the duration of the event,” she says.

A big, blunt needle is best for sewing, as it greatly reduces the risk of pricking the horse’s neck. To get started, first tie off the thread at the bottom of the braid.

Laura recommends sewing up through the banded end and wrapping the thread around the band before sewing back down through the plait from the top, which effectively knots the thread back on itself.

To create the rosette, thread the needle up under the base of the braid and push

strand braid and, pulling downward, goes to the left, then to the right, and then takes the middle to the left, but notes there are alternatives available too: “An upside down plait will give a different

RIGHT: Mark the appropriate width off on your mane comb, and divide mane into even sections. Secure the braids with rubber bands and check they’re all the same size.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 41

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42 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

TRAINING TIPS

through the centre, close to the horse’s

spraying with hairspray or similar to give

neck. Turn the needle and thread back

the rosettes some final touch holding

towards yourself through the centre, then

power is all she needs.

sew through the banded end of the braid,

Forelock tips

creating a plaited loop. Thread the needle through the now folded end of the newly created braid loop, and finally sew back under and into the base of the braid.

For a forelock, however, Laura may opt to use a wax stick to get all those soft, loose pieces of hair to comply. “It’s more about being able to get a good

If correctly done, all thread should be

grip, rather than for keeping the hair in

hidden underneath the plait. Stitching

place,” she says.

back and forth a few times and pulling tight secures the rosette in place. Laura doesn’t tie it off, but leaves a good five centimetres of thread hanging out: “When the horse is bending and stretching its neck overnight, the thread will work itself in and you won’t be able to see it in the morning,” she explains.

Yet another reason why her braids stay in so well.

Laura tends not to use products like wax or plaiting sprays to braid a mane; that all-important tension is her secret weapon. A wet mane or a water spray bottle can be useful for getting a grip on all the pieces of hair, but other than that,

A French braid is the standard plait for a forelock, but there are two different styles. A regular French braid is good for a horse with a thick mop in front. If your horse is lacking in the fringe department, doing an upside-down French braid will give the forelock more volume.

RIGHT: Tie off the thread at the bottom of the braid and sew back down through the plait. For the rosette, thread the needle under the base of the braid to create a plaited loop. Thread the needle through the loop, and sew back under and into the base of the braid.

ABOVE: Laura and Jaytee Serenity have had a successful show ring partnership.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 43

A great trick for pulling the end of the

that the mane is washed at the same

forelock plait under and out of sight is

time. In the lead-up to a show, the hood

to feed a piece of wire down from the

should be removed at least four times

top of the braid, hook it onto the banded

a week to brush out the mane and let it

end of the plait and gently pull it back

get some fresh air and sun to keep it in

through. A quick stitch to secure it in

great condition.

place is the last step.

Preparation is key

Another tip for creating beautiful rosettes is to ensure the mane is the

A thoroughly washed mane always

right thickness and length. It should be

results in a better finish. Laura doesn’t

an even thickness all the way along, as

even mind if it’s freshly shampooed

this is the only way to ensure the plaits

right before she gets started, but she is

will be even and consistent. The length

strictly against any conditioner: “Do not

of the mane should be roughly the same

condition the mane, forelock or dock of

length as your index finger, which is

the tail!” she warns, “slippery hair does

handy as everyone has a finger on them

no favours for grip.”

to measure against when plaiting up!

Ongoing preparation always trumps

Finally, practise is the name of the game.

a one-off wash. As far as day-to-day care goes, Laura is a big believer in using pull-on or zip-up hoods. She recommends that hoods are washed and changed at least once a week, and LEFT: Feed a piece of wire down from the top of the forelock braid, hook it onto the banded end of the plait and gently pull back through. Stich to secure it in place.

ABOVE: Laura demonstrates tail braiding over at Equestrian Hub. 44 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

Your plaiting attempts shouldn’t be left until the day before the show if you want your work to look great. Laura suggests plaiting one braid at the start of every ride – and remember, if your hands aren’t hurting, you’re not doing it tight enough!

Connect with Laura at LVT Equine, and drop over to Equestrian Hub for Laura’s plaiting demo, including how to braid a tail.

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the Grand Prix Kur, but more recently developed and has been the driving force behind the FEI’s children’s tests.

F E AT U R E

A welcome visitor With borders reopening and travel normalising, what a treat to have 5* dressage judge Katrina Wüst visit our shores again. REBECCA ASHTON reports.

K

atrina Wüst is no stranger to

Prix rider, she successfully guides riders

Australia. Fresh from her role

into a better way of going. Katrina’s

as president of the Tokyo

thoughtfulness and skill also shine when

Olympics ground jury, she judged at

analysing freestyles, providing more

the Sydney CD-Lite, and gave a judges’

creative and interesting lines to lift tests

clinic after the event. Although literature

to another level.

and journalism have been an income

Always thinking of new ways to improve the sport, Katrina not only introduced the degree of difficulty system for

mainstay over the years, judging the top sport is her passion and as a Grand

46 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

Spectators were treated to 11 combinations over the day, each presenting a test, from young horse to Grand Prix. Afterwards Katrina guided each rider in ways to improve their marks, a bit like a protocol day. Seven riders demonstrated national and FEI dressage tests, Jessica Skinner on her pony Burrowa Bashar gave an example of the children’s tests, and three riders presented their freestyles.

Right through the levels, one of the most common themes was to first get the horse over the back. Katrina wanted them to open up their backs and stretch down to the bit with good bend in their ribs. Her aim was to dispel any muscle tightness before putting them up into collection. This resulted in more fluent, active, harmonious and better balanced horses right through the day.

When helping Denise Rogan and her Prix St Georges horse Greco, Katrina encouraged her to: “Keep the frame open. Collect and sit a little more. And

F E AT U R E

now forward on the circle. Come from the outside rein. Keep him on your seat.

Collect with the outside rein. Very good.”

Danielle French on the six-year-old Hollands Bend Finders Keepers was another recipient of Katrina’s expertise: “In the bend, it isn’t about making the inside muscles short, it’s about making the outside muscles long. Now flex her to the outside and ride her up. Push her from your seat. More collection. It’s good but she can do more. Flex to the outside so you strengthen the inside hind leg.”

Another point surfacing during the lessons was for the riders to ride more from their seats, especially when the horses came behind the rider’s aids. “It’s important you do it with the seat and not the legs,” Katrina explained. “Don’t push so much with them. The horse will clamp on them. Use your legs for the half passes and passage. Think of Isabell and Edward Gal. Your seat is the connection to your horse’s back. You must develop the normal paces and activity from your seat.” This approach greatly improved the cadence.

Suppleness and flexion of the poll was also addressed right up to the top level.

As Robert Schmerglatt guided Quando Queen through her first Grand Prix, Katrina advised him to: “Flex her to the inside and outside, but just between the ears. Don’t force her to be there with the hands, but address it if she doesn’t want to keep it herself. Insist on her being through and not being too high with the poll. Don’t let her nod. Collect a little more. Ride her without reins.

Very good.” The German judge wanted the poll just to click over. The problem needed to be addressed but then the horse left alone and not held in place.

Tanisha Ryan was on the sweetest four-year-old Sevenoaks Fenrys, who she had broken in herself, and Kate Taylor-Wheat rode the five-year-old MS Fiontieni. Although both horses were young, Katrina encouraged their riders to ask for a little more carrying from the hind legs. This created better balance in the horses, their front ends were looser and they were less inclined to forge and run forward, sometimes away from the rider’s seat.

Katrina kept these periods short so as not to tire the youngsters. Kate was instructed not to push her mare: “Flex her to the outside. Ja. Better. She will get used to it. Do it from the outside. It is more important that she is round and over the back. Sit her from your seat.

Don’t push her. You decide the tempo so she doesn’t rush. We actually need her less active at the moment so we can have her more supple and teach her to carry.”

legs can be a little rounder. The short side afterwards is part of the movement.

You should wait until after the short side to give the mark. It’s 20 metres and nearly one third of the whole movement.

The rider must be precise and not just rely on the quality of the horse. You don’t get three or four strides to prepare for the change, for example.”

Accuracy when riding tests was also emphasised more than once. “What is important for me when I judge Prix St Georges, the first medium trot isn’t extended trot. I give a good mark for a medium trot,” Katrina explained. “The

FACING PAGE: Katrina offers advice to Denise Rogan on her Prix St Georges horse Greco.

ABOVE: Jessica Skinner and her pony Burrowa Bashar gave an example of the children’s tests.

All images by Rebecca Ashton.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 47

F E AT U R E

Robert Schmerglatt guided Quando Queen through her first Grand Prix test.

Half pirouettes also had to be ridden accurately: “It must be on the line and not outside of the line and then the pirouette is a little big. If it’s on the other side of the centreline, I go down to 6.”

Katrina explained that movements like tempi changes must also be placed correctly and centred on the diagonals, and that every movement should be symmetrical in both directions. This requires not just accurate riding but an evenly trained, symmetric horse. Any one-sidedness in the horse should be addressed in their training.

Katrina Wüst could easily be the queen of freestyle judging, and it was interesting to watch her work with three riders to change and improve the lines in their tests. She came up with some great combinations. It was also important to remember, she said, that “the harmony mark is the reigning mark of the freestyle.”

With the structure of the test, Katrina was keen to see an interesting beginning and end, like a good book. The use of

the arena was also addressed, as was the importance of symmetry, balance, and not repeating the movement on the same side. The test also had to be balanced in terms of the amount of time spent in each pace and the ability to highlight good movements and cleverly mask weaknesses.

In Katrina’s opinion, the choice of music needs a lot of attention and is less subjective than you might think. It must match the paces and the transitions must match the music not the letters: “It should fit the rider and horse and should create emotions. Anky was very emotional with her French song.

Isabell, Jessica all create very emotional freestyles.” Perhaps worth searching for clips of these three dressage greats, and listening as you watch.

Thank you Katrina for such a generous sharing of knowledge. It is a rare privilege to get help and insight from one of the world’s best. Also, a big thank you to all the riders. It’s never easy to put yourself out there for all to see, but without you we wouldn’t learn as much.

48 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

A top judge, Grand Prix rider and innovator, Katrina Wüst’s passion for dressage is unmistakable.

Find us on Streaming Spotify, Apple and FREE Google

PODCAST

Hosted by all-round horseman

Charlie Brister Find us on Spotify, Apple and Google Sponsored by

day. Cross-training is great for overall body conditioning, and it helps lower the likelihood of injury as you are not just

F E AT U R E

Keeping your athlete fighting fit

working (and potentially overworking) the same set of muscles day in and day out. Plus, it’s mentally refreshing for both horse and rider.

Eventers know all too well the importance of incorporating a wide range of activities and exercises, but even pure dressage horses and show jumpers will benefit greatly when engaged in a varied program. Mix it

Looking after your equine partner while in heavy work is vital. CHRISTINE ARMISHAW discusses what that entails and how to go about it.

W

work, cavaletti schooling, jump training, lunging or long-reining, trail rides and water fun - the options are many!

Warming up and cooling down Don’t skip the warm up. Research shows

hatever your riding goals,

Work variety

the on-going care of your

It’s important to take time and build up your horse’s workload gradually. Fitness is gained incrementally and conditioning training is best spread over two to four sessions per week, with non-fitness days in between.

it takes at least five minutes for synovial

Even if you ride in only one discipline, aim to vary your sessions from day to

along the back, all the way to their tail.

equine is paramount if you

want to remain in the game. Heavy work entails roughly four to five days of work a week, and careful management across the board is a must. Your biggest focus should be keeping your horse healthy and sound.

up with flat work, ground work, pole

50 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

fluid to start lubricating the joints. I always spend the first five minutes of my ride in a walk and encourage the horse to reach forward and down, inviting a stretch from the poll, down the neck and From there, I spend a further five to ten

F E AT U R E

minutes in trot, still aiming to allow them to stretch forward and down, to warm up the muscles and loosen through the back, all before asking them to start working in a frame.

Take time to cool your horse down too.

Keeping them moving around for 10 to 15 minutes, especially after a high intensity workout, gives the body time to disperse built up lactic acid, which may otherwise cause muscle soreness.

Footing Always pay attention to the going you are riding on and how it may impact the legs. If it’s wet, slippery and dubious, slow everything down. There are lots of gains to be made from working in walk and the risk of injury is greatly decreased.

If you train in a sand arena on a regular basis, be aware of the depth of sand.

If, when you are walking in it off horse, you find it deep and hard to move through, you are potentially leaving your horse vulnerable to suffering ligament or tendon injuries. Ideally, your horse should travel on top of the surface, not in it. And adding more sand does not improve matters, in fact it can be quite the opposite.

Leg protection Using boots for the sake of it isn’t always in your horse’s best interests. Research has shown they actually do very little to support the tendon, and that legwear that restricts range of motion, like boots encompassing the fetlock joint (often used during dressage schooling), can do more harm than good. While potentially beneficial in the case of an injured joint, in a healthy joint they reduce its ability to dissipate forces during the loading phase of the horse’s stride, which may lead to

blood vessels and undergoes a cooling

overloading of other limb structures.

effect as the limb moves through the air.

from tendons. The internal tendon

If a horse has a tendency to knock the

temperature can exceed 45°C during

inside of its opposite front leg, then

intense periods of exercise. Normally

brushing boots are probably a good

FACING PAGE: Christine never puts boots on for the sake of it, but always uses protective boots for XC training.

TOP: Spend at least five minutes in walk, encouraging your horse to stretch forward and down.

BOTTOM: A horse expected to perform at its best must be kept healthy, sound, and in the best condition possible (Image by Snapshotaustralia).

this heat is transferred to the skin via

idea. If it overreaches, then well-fitting

Images courtesy of Christine Armishaw

Another big factor when considering leg coverings is heat produced

However, when a boot or bandage is added, heat loss is greatly reduced.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 51

F E AT U R E

There are many ways to mix up your horse’s training, and water is one of them.

bell boots would be wise. As far as

if you are feeding less than the

competing at a selection of hand-picked

cross country training goes, I’d always

recommended quantity, you can make

events, with rest periods in between and

recommend a set of good quality

up for any shortfalls in the diet by adding

a proper break at the end of the season.

protective boots to mitigate bumps

a quality mineral mix. Also, be sure to

and scrapes. But it’s really important

add non-iodised salt to the diet; a salt

to remove the boots promptly so the

lick left in the paddock is not sufficient.

horse’s tendons cool as quickly as possible after exercise.

Feed

Your horse should have at least one day off per week, and breaks between events can often be for longer than

Base care

you might think. A horse maintains

Prevention is always better than cure.

fitness for approximately three to four

Making sure a horse in regular work is

weeks before levels start to drop off. So

A horse’s feed should be primarily

up to date with all farrier and dentistry

giving them a week off after an intense

made up of fibre; it’s what they have

needs is generally going to ensure it is

competition is not unreasonable, and

evolved to thrive on. This can include

comfortable and able to perform well.

allows them to both physically and

grass, hay, chaff, haylage, beet-pulp and

Scheduling in time for body work is

mentally recharge.

other high fibre forage. You may find a

also important. Getting a qualified body

horse in heavy work needs a little extra

Finally, at the end of the season, turn

worker out every six to eight weeks is

and upping the fibre levels is where

your horse out for a much deserved spell.

a great way to keep one step ahead

you should start. If you are still looking

This is also an opportunity to remove

in the quest towards keeping your

their shoes to rest the feet, which should

to add more weight or to improve

athlete fighting fit. If you have multiple

be done for at least one farrier cycle

condition, adding oil is preferable to

horses, an alternative may be to invest

annually. Have a chat with your farrier on

increasing cereals or boosting the

in a massage pad. Either way, being

the best way to go about it.

protein components, both of which can

proactive rather than reacting only when

cause problems.

a problem arises, will help see your

Whichever feed brand you choose from

horse remain happily in work.

A happy and healthy horse is always going to do a better job than a grumpy or sore one. Do your best to treat your

the many available, in order for your

Plan to rest

horse to access all the key minerals they

A horse in heavy work should be

goes well, you will be rewarded with a

require, you need to feed according to

working along an overarching training

wonderful, long-lasting partnership that

the manufacturer's guidelines. However,

plan. Ideally you are striving towards

stands the test of time.

52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

steed like the athlete they are and, if all

I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R E N D S

Pause for thought

But COFICHEV questions whether reclassifying horses in this way might be detrimental to their welfare. For example, to many, a horse that is boxed all year is living a better life than one grazing in a paddock with a companion herd. But arguably this perception is

Recent scientific research has offered us a deeper understanding of the lived experience of a horse under human care, writes JESSICA MORTON.

anthropomorphic (i.e. it attributes human traits and emotions to animals), which, despite all good intentions, can lead to “exaggerated care” including coat clipping, blanketing, overfeeding and obesity. When feeling cold ourselves, it’s very tempting to pop another rug on our pony. However, this may be detrimental, interfering with their ability to regulate their own body temperature.

Herd instinct While equine welfare has previously centered mainly round a horse's physical health, their quality of life and emotional wellbeing must also be prioritised. As the report points out, horses’ social instincts “motivate them to gather in herds”. Standard stables largely isolate horses from one another, a practice which some of Europe’s leading yards are remedying with social boxes, a design that encourages normal, and healthy, social interaction (see our January 2022 issue).

In their natural environment horses roam across large territories. While recognising that in a domesticated setting space

B

restrictions are necessary, the report

ased on the latest scientific

reflective reading, with the potential to

recommends increased paddock size as

findings, the Swiss Horse

push a few buttons in the industry. But

a means of decreasing aggression, and

Industry Council and

how do the report’s findings relate to us

fencing of sufficient type and quality to

Administration (COFICHEV) recently

and our horses more generally? While the

released Ethical Reflections on the

scope of the report is too broad to fully

Dignity and Welfare of Horses and other Equids, a revised and expanded version of their original 2011 report.

As understanding of equine welfare grows, so does the need for education

reduce the risk of injury, while minimising the chance for escape.

comment on here, some key points are

Restrictive tack

particularly interesting.

The use of some equipment, including

Companions vs livestock

draw reins, training aid systems, and

The horse’s role in western society has

bearing reins, is called into question because of their effect on a horse’s

on what constitutes good horse

changed considerably. No longer beasts

head and neck: “They counteract their

management; and this latest report offers

of burden, they are now primarily used

nature and biomechanics. They cause

an ethical framework for horse owners,

in sport or for recreation, leading them

significant strain, as they can cause

breeders, professionals and enthusiasts

to be perceived more as companion

severe pain or impede breathing.”

alike. The report makes for powerful and

animals than livestock.

According to the report, the resultant

54 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R E N D S

stress and anxiety may undermine

Final thoughts

they must give top priority to the welfare

a horse's confidence and emotional

Regarding the general public’s

of the equids, and respect for their

wellbeing, resulting in “reactivity

continued and legitimate expectations

inherent worth and their subjectivity, and

or conflict behaviour” - clearly

surrounding horse welfare, the report’s

not just focus on improving these points

counterproductive to the report’s

authors have this to say: “If the industry

for the benefit of human beings.”

stated recommendation of building “a

is to retain its social legitimacy,

harmonious relationship with the horse

people working with horses and

based on mutual trust.”

organisations must prevent problems

The COFICHEV Summary Report is

Social licence

… and periodically carry out an honest

available for download if you’d like to

weighing of interests. More specifically,

learn more.

The report discusses the role horses

And as horse lovers, isn’t that we all want?

play in the entertainment industry, and makes note of the fact that equine athletes are at heightened risk of injury when compared to recreational horses, not just due to the dangers inherent in some disciplines, but also to potential stresses in their management, including clipping, rugging, box isolation and frequent long-distance travel.

With animal rights now front and centre, just saying we love our horses doesn't fly anymore. The concept of a social license relies on the consent of the general public to allow equestrian sports events to go ahead. Recent media coverage of equestrian sports has left many people critical of equine welfare, with some calling for a ban on all horse events.

To maintain our license to operate,

Conventional stable design prevents horses from participating in normal, healthy social interaction.

we all need to become aware and to remedy shortcomings in the management of our horses and their welfare. Outmoded techniques must be replaced with practices in keeping with findings from the latest animal behavioural studies. Improving horse welfare requires proactivity on our part, whether that’s by staying up to date with scientific findings, or observing how our horses react in a herd environment and learning from those behaviours.

An underlying principle throughout the report is the need to understand reality from the horse’s point of view, coupled with a warning that “the ambitions and economic interests of individuals and organisations must not override animals’ health requirements, nor those relative to their welfare and dignity.”

ABOVE: Although by nature horses live in large territories, the report recognises the necessity to restrict the area in which they roam.

FACING PAGE: A herd animal, a horse's physical health and emotional wellbeing are equally important.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55

laryngeal neuropathy), often referred to as ‘roaring’.

JH: Are noisy breathers actually struggling to breathe?

SF: Horses that make abnormal noises are likely to have some form of airway collapse. However, the impact of this will depend on the degree of airway obstruction and the type of work the horse is asked to perform. Not all horses work as hard as eventers or racehorses, so are not usually as severely affected.

However, excessive head and neck flexion can exacerbate airway obstruction in any sport horse, even when exercising at lower intensities.

JH: Are horses born that way?

SF: This depends on the type of airway collapse that occurs. In some cases there may be a congenital problem.

However, more commonly airway obstructions develop later in life.

Laryngeal collapse is often progressive over time.

JH: Is one breed more likely to have issues than another?

SF: Taller horses, with long necks are more likely to be afflicted with recurrent

F E AT U R E

laryngeal neuropathy. This includes Thoroughbreds and draft breeds. There

Noisy horses

is also a genetic component to the condition. Other conditions don’t appear to have a genetic basis and may occur in a range of breeds.

JH: Do vets check airway structures in pre-purchase checks?

Respiratory noise: what’s normal, what’s not? To find out, JAMIE HOCKING spoke to Assoc. Prof.

Sam Franklin from Adelaide University’s School of Animal and Veterinary Science.

SF: During a pre-purchase examination, the vet will usually listen to the horse whist it is being exercised to try and identify if there is any abnormal noise.

To make a diagnosis an endoscopic examination of the airways may be recommended.

JH: What causes breathing noises in horses?

SF: It’s normal for horses to make some noise when they breath out. Usually this is a soft blowing sound, although some horses may ‘high blow’ – a louder, snorting sound associated with fluttering the nostrils during exhalation. Again,

this is normal. Abnormal sounds most commonly occur when the horse is breathing in and result from collapse of various structures within the upper airways, which causes an obstruction to airflow. The most common form of airway collapse occurs due to paralysis of the left side of the larynx (recurrent

56 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

JH: Is it a big risk to buy a noisy horse?

SF: Again, it really depends on the type and severity of the obstruction. Horses that are worked at lower exercise ABOVE LEFT: Excessive head and neck flexion can exacerbate airway obstruction.

intensities may be less likely to have impaired performance so long as they can get enough oxygen for the work they are being asked to do. Having said that, we know that airway obstruction is exacerbated when the horse’s head and neck are flexed even at lower exercise intensities. This can ultimately impact a horse’s willingness to work.

JH: What if your horse starts coughing or develops a bit of noise?

SF: Coughing at rest or during exercise is not normal and may indicate that your horse has equine asthma. A vet can examine the airways with an endoscope and take fluid samples from the lower airways to make a diagnosis and advise on the most appropriate treatment. Often, inhaled medications (puffers) are recommended, just as for asthma in human patients. However, it is also essential to reduce the amount of

ABOVE: Performing an endoscopy.

BELOW: On the left, a normal larynx. On the right a collapsed airway resulting from recurrent laryngeal neuropathy.

All Images courtesy Assoc. Prof. Sam Franklin

inhaled dust in the horse’s environment.

Seek veterinary attention so that a

I don’t think allergies per se are getting

dust bedding rather than straw is also

definitive diagnosis can be made and

more common but there is probably

important in stabled horses and riders/

more awareness of non-infectious lower

owners should remove the horse from

airway diseases. Mild to moderate

the stable whilst mucking out.

equine asthma is extremely common

JH: Is there a simple way to know

an appropriate treatment plan put in place. Depending on the source of the noise, it may be possible to make some changes to airway function by altering tack, changing how the horses is ridden,

and owners don’t always recognise it as

when you need to call the vet?

being a problem.

SF: If your horse is making abnormal

upper airway muscles or, in some cases,

JH: Can airway issues be minimised

noise, coughing at rest or during

surgical interventions may be required.

through horsemanship and welfare

JH: Are allergies in horses becoming

management?

performing exercises to strengthen the

exercise, or is showing signs of exercise intolerance or prolonged recovery from exercise, it is advisable to seek

more common and can they cause

SF: Equine asthma is best managed by

airway collapse?

reducing exposure to inhaled dust. It is

SF: There certainly appears to be an

particularly important to minimise dust

Jamie Hocking is an internationally

association between equine asthma and

levels in the feed. This can be done by

successful equestrian vaulter. You can

upper airway collapse in some cases.

feeding good quality forage. Wetting

find him on Facebook at J H Vaulting or

This is because the airway inflammation

or steaming hay can also significantly

catch up with him on Instagram james.

makes it harder to breathe, and

reduce inhaled dust levels. Using a low-

hocking96

veterinary advice.

pressure changes within the airways can ultimately exacerbate any upper airway collapse. Also, in horses with laryngeal dysfunction the ability to protect the lower airways is impaired and they are likely to inhale more particulate matter, leading to lower airway inflammation.

In horses with severe upper airway obstruction, bleeding in the lungs may occur in some cases.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 57

S

o what should the best dressed horse be wearing this winter?

Before you decide, there are

so many factors to consider. Are they stabled or turned out? Clipped, hairy, old, or very young? A shaggy plump pony, or a sleek show hack?

Selecting appropriate apparel can be confusing, confronting and costly. Here is a simple overview of a complex market flooded with quilted combos, woolly warmers and padded paddock rugs.

But first, remember horses don’t lose heat as rapidly as we do, so just because you may be feeling chilly doesn’t mean your horse is. It’s actually much easier for a horse to warm up than cool down. If they are feeling cold their coat hairs will be standing up – and if they’re rugged and you want to check that they’re comfortable put your hand under the rug to feel if their wither is warm.

There are several main reasons why we use rugs at this time of year: to keep our horses warm, dry and clean; and also so we can clip them, thus reducing the risk of over-heating during training or competition and making them easier to clean off afterwards.

Although this may sound obvious, always start with lighter rugs and move to thicker rugs as it gets colder. Don’t overdo it when the weather first starts to cool.

Under Rugs Wool: Wool provides warmth without weight by trapping heat in thick natural

TAC K E D U P

fibres while allowing the skin to breath.

Polar Fleece: This is primarily designed

Winter rug roundup

to wick away moisture and dry your horse’s coat after exercising, or for use when standing in the float, or while being shod. If worn over long periods some polar fleeces can pull back putting pressure on the wither.

There’s no doubt about it – winter has arrived.

And as temperatures go down, it’s time to rug up, writes SUZY JARRATT.

ABOVE LEFT: Burgundy turnout rug with matching neck rug (Available from Leader Equine).

TAC K E D U P

Jute: Similar to hessian, jute’s natural fibres are slightly rough. A jute rug rubs against the horse’s coat as they move, acting like a brush and helping to shed the coat and promote shine.

Cotton: Cotton can be used under a waterproof turnout rug to help keep the rug clean, and provide extra warmth and more comfort. Some saddleries do sell 100 per cent cotton but, more often than not, these rugs are a mixture of cotton and polyester, or cotton drill which is a breathable durable fabric.

Moleskin: Moleskin is thicker than standard cotton and brushed for extra warmth.

Heavy Rugs – Turnout Wool-lined ripstop canvas: These durable rugs can last multiple seasons.

No canvas rug is 100 per cent waterproof but they’re still excellent in providing effective weather protection.

Polyester: Light to handle, waterproof and can be used as an all-in-one solution, without the need for heavy layers in winter. They dry out quickly after wet weather, but are not as breathable as natural fabrics so they retain more heat. The material in polyester rugs is rated by the thickness of the individual thread used in the weave, referred to as the denier and designated with a ‘D’ e.g. 1200D. Essentially the higher that number the stronger the material, so if you have a horse who’s mischievous in the paddock or has a rug-ripping companion the stronger the denier the better!

Polyester rugs also display labels indicating how many grams of polyfill they contain. Polyfill is similar to the material used to stuff toys and cushions.

It comes in long flat lengths and its purpose is to slow the loss of radiant heat out of the rug and away from the horse. A rug labelled 200 grams of polyfill means that every square metre Cosy stable rug with fleece neck collar (Available from Horseware Australia).

of polyfill lining weighs 200 grams. A E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 59

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60 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

PC Samantha Taylor www.wattlelanestables.com.au

TAC K E D U P

A medium weight combo with contrasting binding (Available from Zilco Australia). polyester rug this heavy will be warmer

Stable Rug

Everyone has an opinion about this

than a 300 gram woollen rug or, to use

Stable rugs provide extra warmth to a

subject. Hopefully we’ve provided you

a human analogy, a woollen jumper is a

stabled horse, and are not waterproof.

with a basic guide which will assist in

good base layer but a filled puffer jacket

Usually quilted or padded, they’re

your search for the most appropriate

is much warmer.

available in a range of weights. To

winter rug without getting too hot under

protect your horse’s shoulders from rug

the collar!

Neck rugs or Combos: For added protection from wintery weather, consider adding a matching neck rug

rub, choose a rug with a fleece neck collar, or opt for a satin or sheepskin bib.

to your horse’s wardrobe, or go for

Of course if your horse is stabled,

a combo, a rug with a permanently

but unclipped, he won’t require so

attached neck rug.

much rugging.

A general guide to rugging Temperature

Stabled

Paddocked

12-20°C

Canvas with light lining.

Unlined canvas.

5-12°C

Under rug: wool or jute Top rug: unlined canvas or no-fill synthetic.

Lined canvas.

0-5°C

Under rug: wool combo Top rug: quilted 100-200g combo, or wool-lined canvas combo.

Fully-lined canvas, or 100-200g quilted combo.

Minus 0°C

Woollen combo and 300g combo 1680 denier.

Under rug: wool combo.

Top rug: 200-300g combo, or fully-lined canvas.

Kentucky Horsewear Heavy Fleece Rug (Available from Trailrace).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61

and raced as Data Point. He was handy enough on the track and in 24 starts he won two races and amassed prize money earnings of $151,000.

Greg remembers catching a glimpse of him on Racing.com while he was still racing, and said he immediately noted him down as having potential as a show horse. "The Racing.com app notifies me when there's a horse I like racing, and when they’re not doing so well I contact the trainer. I saw him trotting to the barrier and liked the way he carried himself. He's a very good mover and sat in a nice frame. We have come across three or four horses by doing this. It's a good way of spotting them if you can't go to the races," Greg says.

Data Point, as he was then known, sat in Greg's little black book for a while until his trainer's vet happened to come out to Greg’s property and gave him the tip that he might soon be available.

"His vet said he had a nice horse and I looked it up on my phone and there was his name. He said you better get down there and look at him, there are a few showies after him. Sue Thompson went

L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G

Star turn

down and ended up buying him."

Soon after the horse arrived at Romsey Park, Greg's picturesque property in Victoria, he knew Data Point had what it took to make a good competition horse. "We did a month's work to make sure he was what I wanted. From day

There are some horses with a presence that demands your undivided attention. Givenchy is one of those horses, writes JO MCKINNON.

G

dot he always sat in a frame and is one of the easier Thoroughbreds we have trained off the track. He's beautiful and very uncomplicated to ride and probably came up better than we thought."

Greg, a show jumping rider when he

ivenchy is one of those

At this year's Sydney Royal Easter Show,

was younger, specialises in producing

breathtaking show hacks.

Greg and Givenchy took out the most

show horses and works with all types

When he strides into the ring

prestigious event for Thoroughbreds,

of breeds including Warmbloods. He

you can't take your eyes off him. His

the Pope Cup. It was the crowning glory

says, for various reasons, that he enjoys

colour, his movement, his elegance, and

in what has so far been an illustrious

working with Thoroughbreds the most.

his presence all come together to form

career in the ring since being retired

"They’ve been exposed to a lot before

the perfect looking Thoroughbred. Add

from the racetrack in 2018.

his regular rider Greg Mickan into the

A son of the former champion racehorse

to shows they are forward thinking

equation and you have the epitome of a

and coveted Darley sire Lonhro,

compared to a Warmblood, which will

top show combination.

Givenchy was trained by Mick Kent

stop and spook. With Thoroughbreds

62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

we get them. They’ve been to the races, been in stables, so when you take them

Our Life After Racing feature is proudly sponsored by Arrowfield

Stud

they continue to go forward because after their training on the track, their initial instinct is to go forward.”

Greg adds that although he loves Thoroughbreds, he’s of the opinion that a good horse is a good horse, no matter what their breeding, and that they’re not easy to source.

Not all prospects turn out to be stars like Givenchy, now in his third showing season, and are simply unable to transition to life on the show circuit. "It's hard because you don't know until you get them out amongst other horses and see how they cope in the atmosphere.

You can sometimes think you have a star in your own arena at home, but you never really know until you get them out,” Greg explains.

Givenchy was taken to seven agricultural shows within three weeks in his first stint, enough to make or break any horse. “They have to tie to the truck and work in a team environment. He was always very good even at his first few shows, he has a good temperament and accepted it very well. In temperament and trainability, he's up there with one of the easier ones we have had to produce,” Greg says. “What he is at home is just about what he is at the shows. He doesn't get there and get too bright or silly."

Greg and Givenchy’s next big targets are the 2022 Melbourne Royal followed by the Grand Nationals in Sydney at the end of the year.

And with so many off the track events offering great prize money popping up all over Australia, Greg plans to aim Givenchy at more of those shows, because, as he says, that adds up to a whole lot of incentive.

FACING PAGE: Greg and Givenchy, the 2022 OTT New Star (Image by Lisa Gordon).

ABOVE: Givenchy, a good mover with a very nice frame (Image by Lorelle Mercer).

LEFT: Winners of the 2022 Sydney Royal Pope Cup (Image by Rodney’s Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 63

Arabians. While the Colorado winters are cold and temperatures go well below freezing, the horses’ thick, fluffy coats, coupled with their instinct to stand close together during heavy snowfall, keep them warm all winter.

Every morning, wranglers round up the horses from their pasture and drive them into corrals. A few are selected, matched to guests’ preferences and level of experience, the remainder are released back into the pasture where they happily graze for the rest of the day.

For western riding enthusiasts looking for an authentic cowboy experience, a wide variety of activities are available.

Help wranglers feed the herd hay carried on sleighs drawn by Belgian Draft horses, trail ride out in the snow, or enjoy a natural horsemanship clinic. The ranch caters to riders of all levels.

Clinics are held every day and led by experienced wranglers. The fun begins with a natural horsemanship lesson with the head wrangler in the comfort of a heated indoor arena, where you learn how to communicate with your horse and improve your riding skills. Each

T R AV E L

session helps you strengthen your bond

Getaway to Colorado

with your horse as you learn to connect through various games based on natural horsemanship techniques. Emphasis is placed on learning to trust your horse, relax, and find the right balance in the saddle. Riding around the arena with long

If you’re dreaming of a luxury ranch getaway, prepare to be enchanted by Vista Verde and its winter wonderland, writes MATHILDE GREGOIRE.

T

he Rocky Mountains region is known for having some of the best guest ranch experiences in the world; offering a wide range of outdoors activities amid a truly breathtaking landscape.

With a perfect combination of luxury and rustic charm, Vista Verde Ranch (VVR) is a dude ranch and resort nested at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Located near the popular skiing

centre of Steamboat Springs, the ranch is a three hour drive west of Denver, Colorado’s capital.

Winter at the VVR

reins while executing transitions using your seat is one of the many exercises you’ll be invited to practice. For riders coming from a traditional English riding background, being immersed in westernstyle riding can be a very exciting and rewarding experience.

If you enjoy outdoor riding, trail rides around the ranch are offered in winter.

And while they are usually kept to a

In true western fashion over 100 horses

slower pace due to the cold weather

live on the ranch, roaming the acres

and snowfall, this won’t stop you from

of pastures all year round. The herd

having a magical experience!

consists mostly of Quarter Horses

Plenty to keep you busy

and Mustangs, with the exception of

Each morning, while you enjoy a

a few Belgian Draft horses and Anglo

delicious buffet breakfast, a VVR staff

64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

member takes time out with each guest to discuss the activities they’d like to sign up to that day. While horses and riding are an important part of an authentic dude ranch experience, there’s a plethora of other activities available onsite. In winter, guests have the opportunity to try snow tubing, ice fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Or for a complete change of pace, enjoy a photography workshop, cooking class, or a wine tasting.

day on the ranch, relaxing in a Jacuzzi

Ah, the food!

additional charge. And while there are

overlooking the herd as they graze is a rare and peaceful pleasure, an enjoyable moment to connect with nature and disconnect from the rest of the world. If you’re in the mood to socialise, you can join other guests for happy hour in the Great Room at the main lodge and share the day’s highlights.

At VVR, all the activities on offer are part of the all-inclusive package and incur no

The culinary experience at VVR will not disappoint if you enjoy fresh, high quality, organic food and local produce.

A buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served each day, and guests also have the option to order from a few delectable à la carte dishes, prepared by a renowned and very talented chef.

plenty of exciting outdoor activities to

After a long day filled with exciting activities and enticing food, guests can relax in their charming, secluded cabin.

The accommodation at VVR consists of private luxury log cabins, each equipped with its own Jacuzzi, kitchen, lounge, and cozy fireplace. After a busy

ensuring that each guest enjoys

choose from, you also have the option to simply relax, either by reading a book by the fireplace, or enjoying a glass of wine on your private porch.

Whether you are looking for a solo getaway, a romantic retreat, or a family vacation, VVR caters for everyone,

find out more at Vista Verde Ranch, and

FACING PAGE: Welcome to a winter wonderland.

TOP LEFT: Riding around the ranch is a favorite occupation for many guests.

TOP RIGHT: The cozy Great Room where guests gather for happy hour.

ABOVE: Belgian Drafts pull the sleigh while wranglers deliver hay to the ranch horses.

don’t forget to pack your snow boots.

Images by Mathilde Gregoire

a personalised experience at this delightful luxury retreat.

If that sounds like your kind of getaway,

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65

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With such great designs plus an interesting backstory, I thought it was time to catch up with Kerrits CEO Melissa Hubbard.

FA S H I O N T R E N D S

When innovation meets quality Making the leap from performance swimsuits for women to performance equestrian apparel, Kerrits is the name to watch, writes JESS MORTON.

I

n 1986 with just $50 worth of outlet

especially for equestrians, the CEO of

company, approached Kerri about designing a line of riding apparel. Kerrits (Kerri’s name with the addition of a ‘t’) is the brand born out of that alliance. The brand’s logo features a carrot graphic in place of the ‘i’, because, well, horses love carrots! Also the reason why every garment comes with a packet of carrot

Eiser's, a large American equestrian

seeds hang tag.

store material, Kerri Kent began designing swimsuits, eventually

opening her own store.

When the New York Times ran a story about her dream to create a line

JM: What are Kerrits’ core principles and how are they reflected in the current collections?

MH: From the very beginning, Kerrits was built on the need for creating functional and comfortable clothing for women of all sizes. Our product development team searches tirelessly for fabrics that are durable enough to withstand time in the saddle and in the barn, technical enough to perform, and comfortable enough to enhance time in the saddle. We want our customers to feel confident in our clothing no matter the level or discipline. This is reflected in the fact that we offer a wide variety of styles in sizes XS to 2X. We embrace diversity in our sport and one of the ways we support this is by giving back to organisations with those same principles.

JM: Tell us about the design process.

MB: Our team is made up of riders, and we collectively spend a lot of time in the saddle and in the barn, which is where some of our best product ideas E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 67

FA S H I O N T R E N D S

and designs come from. We know what feels comfortable on our bodies when we’re in the saddle and what we need from apparel when we’re working with our horses. Our ‘fit models’ are our employees, and I think that provides us with more open and honest feedback on how the garments feel and function. Colour and print wise, we take inspiration from what’s happening in mainstream fashion and then ‘Kerritise’ those trends with equestrian prints. Michele McAlpine, our VP of Merchandising, has been with Kerrits for 30 years, and she is an absolute colour genius. I often say she sees colour like no other human in the world.

JM: What are you most proud of at Kerrits?

MH: This might sound totally hokey, but I am most proud of our team. We support each other in a way that fosters an environment where our employees feel safe to be creative, come up with crazy ideas, and have the courage to do things differently than other brands in the equestrian space. I’m also very proud of the fact that we design apparel for riders of all sizes and all abilities.

JM: What’s your best-selling product

certainly wouldn’t recommend for the

category?

MH: Our riding tights. We were the first brand to develop athletic tights for riding, and the first to introduce technical fabrics like Ice Fil onto the market. I think their continued popularity is especially impressive given how many brands now offer tights.

faint at heart! EQL is lifestyle apparel

JM: Where do you see Kerrits headed?

MH: Is it cliché to say that the sky's the limit? Kerrits is now a well-established brand, but we have so much more to do. We’ve started to expand our apparel into more conservative disciplines, and we’ve expanded our show collection to include more coats and shirts for more traditional competitors. Our product development goal remains innovation in a way that honors the tradition of equestrian sport - and we will continue pushing the envelope on technical performance fabrics while focusing on function and fit in the saddle.

meant to be worn in your life outside the barn. It has equestrian styling and incorporates equestrian prints so that you can easily incorporate your love of horses in your day-to-day wardrobe.

JM: Lastly, what can we expect from the Winter 2022 collection?

MH: Both Kerrits and EQL have really exciting collections launching this autumn. In Kerrits, you’ll see some of our oldies but goodies like Power Stretch Tights and Wind Pro Tights, which have become staples in wardrobes around the world, and some fantastic outerwear with beautiful, feminine styling. As for EQL, Autumn ’22 is our best collection yet. While we’ve intentionally developed EQL to be worn outside the barn, we’ve incorporated some functional options that are totally appropriate for wearing at the barn or out to dinner. We use

JM: Tell us about your new brand EQL

responsibly sourced fabrics and donate

by Kerrits?

MH: We launched EQL in October 2020 in the midst of the pandemic, which I

profits like horse rescue and therapeutic

The Affinity Aero Show Coat.

PREVIOUS PAGE: Kerrits Affinity Long Sleeve Show Shirt.

68 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

one per cent of proceeds to equine nonriding programs.

EQL’s Horse Spirit Wrap. Kerrits donate 1% of all EQL sales to equine causes.

While his origins remain unknown, it is thought that Figure may have come from Welsh Cob, Arabian and Thoroughbred

BREED

bloodlines. Later known as ‘Justin Morgan’s horse’, he was recognised

The mighty Morgan

for passing his legendary traits on to his offspring and subsequently down through many generations. His outstanding features and capabilities would eventually become the hallmarks of the Morgan breed.

A legendary American breed, the Morgan is versatile, fun, and athletic, writes MATHILDE GREGOIRE.

T

In 1909, the Morgan Horse Club was founded with the aim of preserving and promoting the breed. It was later renamed the American Morgan

he Morgan is loved by Americans and many equestrians worldwide.

A great sport, show, and western

birth in Massachusetts of a bay colt

Horse Association (AMHA) in 1971.

named Figure. Some believe the young

As the Morgan’s popularity grew the

horse was given to his owner Justin

association began to extend their scope

pleasure horse, the Morgan is wonderful

Morgan to settle a debt. Although

and responsibilities in the interests of

under saddle and has an exceptional

relatively short, standing at 14hh, Figure

the breed. Today, over 90,000 Morgans

character.

possessed exceptional strength and

are registered with the organisation.

Back in time

speed. Used for farm work, plowing and

The breed gained mainstream popularity

Few breeds can be traced back to a

pulling carriages, he also competed

in America and around the world

single horse, but for America’s beloved

in many races where he regularly

following the production of Walt Disney’s

Morgan, it all began in 1789 with the

outperformed the competition.

movie Justin Morgan Had a Horse.

70 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

BREED

Released in 1972 and based on the novel by Marguerite Henry, the movie follows the story of the first Morgan colt as the founding sire of one of the most versatile breeds in the world.

Versatile and willing Morgans are known for their great versatility, stamina, and willingness to learn. They make an excellent pleasure riding horse that also performs exceptionally well as a stock horse. With a high-held neck and high carriage, Morgans stand on average between 14.1 to 15.2hh. Their heads are well defined, their ears short, and their eyes wide and expressive. They possess a generous throatlatch, which allows for good lateral flexion at the poll, sturdy legs with powerful hindquarters, a strong chest,

While versatility is considered to be the

and a short back.

The Morgan in Australia

breed’s hallmark, perhaps one of the

With a thick mane and flowing tail,

Morgan’s best loved characteristics is

their most common coat colours are

their friendly and gentle nature. The

bay, chestnut, and black. However,

AMHA’s slogan ‘The Horse that Chooses

the official breed registry recognises a

You’ reflects the breed’s affinity with

wide range of colors, including grays,

humans and its aptitude as a wonderful

As the Morgan’s popularity grew in the U.S., interest in the breed spread worldwide – and Australia is not indifferent to this horse’s many talents. The first Morgans were brought to Australia in the 1800s to improve trotter bloodlines.

palominos, and buckskins.

family horse. The Morgan’s kind

The AMHA maintains very specific

character has also made them popular

judging criteria for the confirmation

for therapeutic riding programs.

standards deemed to be acceptable. It

State honours

also lists four different ‘families’ within the breed: Brunk, Lippitt, Government, and Working Western, each with their own set of characteristics. With 1,000 horses registered worldwide, the Lippitt is by far the least common family subset.

Today, the Morgan Horse has the honour of being the official State Animal of Vermont and of Massachusetts. The University of Vermont established the Morgan Horse Farm, which is home to the oldest breeding herd in the world.

The institution, which hosts a number of educational and history programs, is open to the public and can be visited from May through October each year.

One of the biggest events for the Morgan, the Annual Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show is held every October in Oklahoma City. The event showcases the breed’s versatility in a week-long competition.

Covering nearly all equestrian disciplines, from dressage, in-hand, reining, and western pleasure, to English and western trail classes, jumping, and carriage driving, the Morgan shines in them all.

However, the importation of Morgan breeding stock didn’t begin until 1974.

Initially, a stallion and two mares were brought from the U.S. Additional horses were imported from the U.S. and Canada over the following years, creating a wider genetic pool.

The Morgan Horse Association of Australia, established in 1990, currently registers over 650 pure bred and 670 part bred Morgans, many of which are competing in a variety of disciplines at a national level, including dressage, jumping, endurance, carriage driving and showing.

Interested to know more? Visit the American Morgan Horse Association, the Morgan Horse Association of Australia, and the Morgan Horse Farm.

FACING PAGE: Saddle Seat riding, a popular show event for Morgan’s in the U.S. ABOVE: Wildu Mandaawi Stud’s 2yo filly Wildu Niamh, winner Supreme Pure Bred at the 2019 Australian National Morgan Horse Show (Image by Penny Heighes).

LEFT: Foals at the University of Vermont‘s Morgan Horse Farm.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 71

PROPERTY

A slice of paradise Located at 304 Goremans Road in Eureka, NSW, this property is within easy reach of some of Byron Bay's most beautiful hinterland villages.

E

ureka is a small town in northern New South Wales. Located in the beautiful Byron Bay hinterland, it’s just five minutes from the villages of Bangalow, Federal and Clunes, and an easy 30 minute drive to Byron and its glorious beaches.

The town is home to a public school, sports ground, tennis court, cricket pitch, and soccer fields. It is also home to a

superb equestrian property that offers plenty of room to move.

Set on approximately 30 verdant, undulating acres of premium land, this stunning purpose-built equestrian property features a bespoke, newly built American barn stable complex, a round yard, and an immaculately appointed accommodation studio (subject to council approval).

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A property that presents a world of opportunity to the lover of all things equestrian, the stable complex, which has ceiling fans throughout, features four large and fully lined stables, all of which have been finished with Tenderfoot Priefert flooring. The Todd Cunningham designed all-weather ELD dressage arena is Olympic size and enclosed by post and rail fencing.

The fully lined tack room has bespoke stainless steel saddle racks and fittings, custom made cabinetry, built-in feed storage, a full laundry equipped with European appliances, and a wash bay with both hot and cold running water.

Newly built, the spacious and tastefully equipped accommodation studio includes a kitchen and dining area, and a comfortable, air conditioned lounge room.

The horse paddocks have been pasture improved and are enclosed by electrified safety fencing, plus there’s a handy machinery shed. Elevated and north facing, the property has building entitlement, is water and electricity ready, and includes creek frontage as well as a bore with a 20 megalitre water license.

An auction date of 23 June has been set with a price guide of $3,000,000, so there’s no time to waste.

Contact Nick Dunn of McGrath Byron Bay on 0448 301 111, or Ruth Gotterson on 0407 377 303.

FACING PAGE: The American style barn has four large stables.

TOP: The newly built accommodation studio (STCA) with kitchen and dining area.

LEFT: The stable complex has ceiling fans throughout.

RIGHT: The all-weather dressage arena is Olympic size and enclosed by post and rail fencing.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 73

Where performance and comfort collide

SADDLE REVIEW

Equipe Synergy With a narrow twist, rear block, monoflap and forward seat, this beautifully crafted saddle is built for close contact.

W

hen Lambourne Park

coped well with the atmosphere and

a mystery even Deb can’t solve: “She

Couperin (Connor) was

conditions. Depending upon how many

wanted to be a whale vet when she

being retrained he had

events she can get to, Beth is aiming to

was very young, but she’s now thinking

been ridden in an Equipe Synergy, and

go 1* by the end of this year.

of studying health science or sports

when Deb Seymour bought him she

Her mother, who used to show jump,

medicine – it changes day by day.”

wanted the same brand of saddle.

helps maintain Connor’s fitness by

What is not going to change is the

Deb, who purchased the OTT for her

riding him while Beth’s in school at

suitability of the Equipe Synergy. “It’s a

daughter Beth Dunn, recalls that it had

Jindabyne’s Snowy Mountains Grammar.

great fit and Beth loves riding in it. I’d

suited the chestnut perfectly, so there

The family moved to the region from

been looking to buy a new one but when

was no reason to search for a different

the Mornington Peninsula three years

this came up on The Saddle Hub, which

size or style.

ago and are now based at Springwell

Twelve-year-old Connor was retired at

in a heritage homestead on fifty acres,”

Performance Horses in Cooma. “We’re

I’d found out about on Facebook, I went for it. Dealing with the staff was pleasant and easy, and the follow-up was great.”

nine after winning a few races in NSW

explains Deb, who was once a major

and Victoria. By Ne Coupez Pas (USA) out

crime detective in Victoria. She has

The Saddle Hub has a wide variety of

of Tendue (Aus), he then went to Jenni

now retired from policing and is happy

top quality second-hand saddles, so why

Hodgins, was given the Lambourne Park

running the farm and managing the

wait? All saddles come with a two-week

prefix and schooled as an eventer. “Jenni

animals. What her daughter wants to

trial, finance options, and a courier to

did a really good job,” says Deb, “my

do when she leaves school remains

your door. Terms and conditions apply.

daughter’s been competing on him and loving every moment.”

Beth had her first pony when she was seven, riding in Pony Club and interschools events. She graduated to one of her mother’s OTTs and then to a Welsh Cob. Connor has been with her for eight months and the combination is being trained by show jumper Sarah Dreverman, eventer Merran Wallis, and

by Danni Wallis in dressage.

These lessons are proving worthwhile.

Recently Beth and her gelding placed third in a Thoroughbred Sport Horse jumping class at the NSW Country Championships held in Equestrian Park, Canberra. And they didn’t disgrace themselves at the prestigious International 3DE at SIEC, where they competed in the EVA80-J and

Beth and Connor placed third in the Thoroughbred Sport Horse jumping class at the NSW Country Championships.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 75

YO U N G R I D E R

Begin at the beginning Lauren Rowe’s tried and true approach to training her horses is proving to be very successful, writes SUZY JARRATT.

C

harlotte Dujardin once

get their trust.” These words resonate

said: “some of the best

with Lauren Rowe who likes to train her

combinations in dressage are

horses from the very beginning. And she

people who’ve worked with their horses

has had many successes along the way.

from the bottom and got to the top. They

The seventeen-year-old West Australian

get a partnership and a connection. I

was given her own pony when she was

want to know my horses inside out and

six. “My mum, Lisa, rode and competed,

76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

and these days is my ‘eyes on the ground’. I’m very lucky to have Mum and Dad. They take time off work driving me everywhere so I can do what I love, and ensure I always have the best gear.”

Lauren is also very thankful for her much-loved Nana, who has a wonderful meal waiting for the whole family after a big day of showing.

Since she was a little girl Lauren has competed on her family’s Welshies, and sometimes on small breeds owned by people who have considered her the ideal jockey to showcase their ponies.

She has done a lot of hacking, ranging from Pony Club gymkhanas to Grand Nationals. She also did well at eventing: “These days I occasionally ride over jumps just for a change in routine. I’ve always had green ponies and love all aspects of training but now dressage is my passion. I used to watch the top riders at horse events and wanted to do what they were doing. The whole idea of dressage is creating harmony between horse and rider and making movements together.”

YO U N G R I D E R

Some of her recent wins have been in April’s WA Pony Dressage Showcase, where she was Champion Advanced and first in the Medium Pony. In the State Interschools she was sashed Champion Advanced and Medium Secondary Rider, and at the Busselton Dressage Series she took out Champion Advanced. “This was up against horses a well as ponies,” she says proudly.

Her major competition horse at the moment is NEP Cadillac a 14.2hh eight-year-old German Riding Pony by Cheval de Luxe. He lives with the Rowes on their 25 acres at Capel, between Bunbury and Busselton, and Lauren tries to ride him five days out of seven.

Her day begins at 5:00am: “It’s dark but I have lights and I train on a flat, grassy area as I don’t have an arena right now.

I also have regular lessons from Colin Chantler. He’s incredibly supportive, quite amazing and absolutely hilarious!”

Colin has been coaching her for over seven years and will be there when she makes the transition to bigger mounts.

“But at the moment I’m sticking to pony dressage,” Lauren adds.

And she does have to concentrate on her studies. “I’m doing my Certificate IV in Education as I’d like to be a primary school teacher, as well as continuing to ride.”

Lauren was recently nominated for the Channel 7 Young Achiever award. “I was one of the first WA equestrians ever to be chosen,” she says, “and I got through to the final.”

When trying to explain equestrian to friends at school, the question often asked is whether you go fast. “They didn’t understand what it’s like to love horses!” Lauren explains. “The bond you have is something I can't describe. If the horse knows you're having an off day, they can feel it. And if they're having an off day, you can feel it. Some people just don't understand so they try and force the horse. But when you have a connection and a respect for each other you achieve great things."

FACING PAGE: With NEP Cadillac at a WA Young Dressage Riders Association event (Image by Jordyn Colleran Photography).

TOP: Lauren and NEP Cadillac took out Champion Advanced at the recent Busselton Dressage Championships (Image by Christie Lyn Photographs).

BOTTOM: Competing at the WA State Interschool Championships (Image by Christie Lyn Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 77

America. I won nearly every event at the NSW qualifiers but wasn’t selected. I’d always had a fascination with western

20 QUESTIONS

20 Questions with Warwick Schiller

lifestyle and horsemanship. The bank allowed you to take a year’s leave without pay, and guaranteed you a job when you returned so I took the opportunity and went to the U.S.

Q: Did you find a difference between U.S. and Australian horsemanship?

A : In Australia I felt I rode horses but didn’t train them. I had no process, it was just get them to do it. In the U.S. I

A lifelong equestrian in a variety of disciplines, Warwick is an Equestrian Hub mentor and an expert in natural horsemanship. His mindful, relationshipbased approach has proven successful with even the most anxious horses.

learned there’s a foundation that’s the basis for everything you might add later.

I’m not saying Australia didn’t have that, but I certainly didn’t.

Q: When was your first job in the U.S.?

A : In 1990 with trainer Don Murphy, a National Reined Cowhorse Hall of Fame

Q: Where are you from?

A: A wheat and sheep farm in Young NSW.

it was more ego, thinking ‘people will

member. When I was leaving after a year

think I’m cool if I could do that’.

he said: ‘If you want to come back I’ll give

Q: Why were you drawn to reining?

A : In the mid-80s we started seeing the

Q: First job after school?

A : For six years I worked in the local

manoeuvres U.S. trainers were getting their reining horses to do on a loose

Commonwealth Bank.

wanted to do that. Looking back from a

Q: Why did you go to U.S.?

A : My goal was to be on the Youth

completely different perspective, I think

World Cup team, and compete in

rein and with a pleasant expression. I

78 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

you a job - you could do this for a living’.

After six months I returned to Don’s.

Q: Describe your Californian property.

A : Everything we need on six acres nice arena, round pen, panel walker (my wife Robyn puts the horses on that while I’m away to keep them legged up).

20 QUESTIONS

Our horses live in paddocks - even our

Tristan Tucker, Jane Pike, Jonathan

all that’s important. By 2016 I assumed

stallion lives out with two geldings.

Field, Elsa Sinclair.

I knew what I was talking about, then

Q: What’s your favourite ‘go to’

Q: You give clinics internationally,

Sherlock changed not only my horse

training exercise?

what was the most exotic location?

training, but my whole life.

A : My favourite isn’t even training, it’s

A : In Morocco we stayed at the British

connection - but it’s what makes the

Ambassador’s residence complete with

training easy. When you get a horse

three security teams outside the house,

Q: Have you ever given up on a horse?

A : Two with bucking issues because

relaxed around you through connection,

and a Range Rover with a personal

biomechanical correctness is easy, in fact

driver and diplomatic plates. We got to

they offer it. There are many ways I work

meet the Prince and were taken to the

on this connection, but it comes down to

races in Casablanca.

having no expectation, being present and

Q: The most interesting horse you’ve

communicating your awareness.

worked with?

I couldn’t find the beginning of the problem. The bucking isn’t the issue, just a symptom, and at the time I didn’t understand the mammalian nervous system enough to fully resolve the trauma that caused the bucking.

Q: Is there anything horse related you

A : In 2016 Robyn bought Sherlock,

haven’t tried but wanted to?

a reining horse, who’d never really

Q: You’ve recently been competing.

A : We wanted something we and the

A : Not really.

put it together in the ring because of

horses enjoyed, where we don’t have

Q: Your greatest equestrian

some underlying tension. I couldn't

to sacrifice our morals and values to be

train the tension out of him; he needed

successful. We’ve been in the Ranch

connection, not correction. That led

Riding and Ranch Trail at Quarter Horse

me to understand I’d spent nearly all of

shows. This satisfies the enjoyment,

my life in a similar state, which took me

values, and morals part, but we’re still

down a personal development rabbit

not sure if it ticks all the boxes.

achievement?

A : A personal best at WEG in the team competition, then besting it by three points in the semi-final. For me it was the result of a huge mental shift bought on partly by all the inner work I’d done that year, and by Jane Pike's mental coaching.

Q: Who do you admire in the equestrian world?

A : Anyone who keeps evolving, sees beyond the horse training aspect, and has connected the dots between personal growth and how they choose to interact with their horses: people like

hole that I’m still burrowing down.

Q: The best advice you’ve received?

A : When working with a horse: wait.

Then wait a little longer. There’s a quote from A Course In Miracles: ‘those who are certain of the outcome can afford to wait, and wait without anxiety’.

Q: Your greatest lesson?

A : It’s what you learn after you know it

Q: A piece of equipment you couldn’t live without?

A: My collapsible flag. I used to use a flag to drive a horse, but these days I use it to draw a horse’s thoughts.

Q: Time for a social life?

A : It’s just been us, our dogs, horses and chooks in the past two years. During COVID I don’t think anyone had a social life, and it’s helped both Robyn and I understand that we really are introverts and value our alone time.

Q: What would you do if you didn’t work with horses?

A : Welding, carpentry or leatherwork, which would satisfy the instant gratification part of me. With horses you see a change over months and years, not hours.

Connect with Warwick at Warwick Schiller Performance Horsemanship.

FACING PAGE: Meeting a Barb stallion in Morocco (Image by Robyn Schiller).

LEFT: In New Zealand at a horse expo (Image courtesy Warwick Schiller).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 79

Horses for Sale

Phoenix of Blackall Park BREED Imported purebred Fresian gelding AGE 9 years old HEIGHT 169cms PRICE $30,000 A sweet, affectionate boy, completely unflappable, willing with an excellent temperament.

Modern, extravagant Friesian movement, established laterals, starting walk and canter transitions and collected work.

Currently working novice to elementary dressage. Can be easily ridden by a junior or amateur and taken out to clinics or competitions. Huge potential.

80 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2

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Senorita

BREED Andalusian/PRE/Friesian/Warmblood SEX Filly AGE 7 months old HEIGHT will mature around 16.2hh ELIGIBLE Eligibile AHAA (Andalusian association), Warlander Sporthorse, AFWHA (Friesian warmblood).

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Talented gelding

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Warmblood performance mount

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Comfy Dry Moisture Management Lining.

No Side Seams

Detachable Neck Rug.

Reflective Trim.

Removable Surcingles.

Available with detachable liners in various fills.

REMOVABLE LINERS TO CUSTOMISE WARMTH. Made from a 1200 denier polyester ripstop outer that is highly waterproof and breathable. Supplied with OR without fill, giving you the option of adding detachable liners in 100GM OR 300GM fills. Available in 5’9” (NZ 4’6”) - 6’9” (NZ 5’6”).

IF IT’S BRANDED ZILCO, IT’S BRANDED QUALITY.

ARRIVING MID-JULY 2022 zilco.net

AUSTRALIA: Zilco International Pty Ltd [tel] +61 2 8765 9999 [e] sales@zilco.com.au NEW ZEALAND: Zilco NZ Ltd [tel] +64 3 381 0270 [e] sales@zilco.co.nz Available from participating saddlery outlets in Australia and New Zealand.