BC's Equine Lifestyles - Spring/Summer 2015

The Official Member Magazine of Horse Council BC

BC’s

Spring/Summer 2015 www.hcbc.ca

Equine Lifestyle

JOIN US AT THE PNE FOR HORSE DAY 2015!

2014 HCBC AWARD RECIPIENTS BC HERITAGE CIRCUIT CHAMPIONSHIPS HCBC WANTS TO HELP FUND YOUR NEXT TRAIL OR CLUB PROJECT! SHELAGH NIBLOCK TALKS HAY NUTRITION & TESTING YOUR HAY

Join Us For These Great Events in 2015 HCBC BC SPORT SYMPOSIUM- January 31st & February 1st, 2015 HCBC BC EQUINE EDUCATION SUMMIT - March 13, 14, 15, 2015 HCBC BC HERITAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS - July 3, 4, 5, 2015 KAMLOOPS LEGACY PERFORMANCE GAMES - July 23 - 26, 2015 55+ BC GAMES - August 25 - 29, 2015 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY EVENT, PLEASE VISIT: WWW.HCBC.CA Horse Council BC 27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 tf: 1.800.345.8055 p: 604.856.4304 f: 604.856.4302

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle

In This Issue NEWS

Spring/Summer 2015 is published bi-annually by

HORSE COUNCIL BC

27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 T: 604-856-4304 | F: 604-856-4302 Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055 www.hcbc.ca

Horse Council BC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LIZ SAUNDERS

ROSE SCHROEDER

CAROLYN FARRIS

CHRIS PACK

President 250-359-7293

Treasurer 250-546-6083

CAROL CODY Secretary 604-855-6890

SUSAN THOMPSON VP Education 604-943-8155

VP Recreation 604-854-1245

4 4 5 7 8 9 9 10 10

Presidents Message Meet HCBC’s New President!

HCBC Award Recipients in 2014 Horse Day 2015 At The PNE! Ride & Drive Rewards Program Apply For a 2015 HCBC Scholarship!

2015 BC Horse Sport Symposium Thank You P’Tit Trot Riding Program For Kids Thank You To Our Partners

FUNDING 11 HCBC Wants to Help Fund Your Next Project

VP Membership & Marketing 604-888-4585

The Horses Are Coming.

GORD MACKENZIE VP Industry 250-679-3999

COACHES CORNER

ORVILLE SMITH

17 The Equine Canada Rider Levels

Past President 250-964-2269

SUSAN HARRISON

COMPETITION

VP Competition 250-416-0094

Saturday - August 29th 2015 Join in July for the BC Heritage 20at The Fair theUsPNE

STAFF LISA LAYCOCK

Executive Director administration@hcbc.ca ext.1008

KELLY COUGHLIN

Senior Program Director Manager, Industry & Agriculture industry@hcbc.ca ext.1006

WENDY SEWELL

Manager, Coaching & Education coaching@hcbc.ca ext.1004

ALI BUCHANAN

Manager, Competition & Sport competition@hcbc.ca ext.1005

SANDY UNDERWOOD

Membership Coordinator membership@hcbc.ca ext. 1002

AYNSLEY CAIRNS Marketing & Communications Coordinator

communication@hcbc.ca

ext.1003

LYNN WALLDEN Finance & Grants finance@hcbc.ca ext. 1007

LYNDA ECKSTEIN Reception reception@hcbc.ca ext. 1001

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 12 Introducing Zero Waste Horse Bedding 13 Back-To-Back Arena Driving Trials!

Championships 20 Start Prepping for the 2016 BC Summer Games 21 BC Heritage Circuit Qualifiers 22 55+ BC Games (Formerly BC Senior Games) in North Vancouver 22 Kamloops Performance Legacy Games 2015

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE 14 Hay Testing - Helps You Get The Best For Your Buck!

TRAILS & RECREATION 23 Share The Trails Workshop 2015

JENNIFER PIPE

Recreation Coordinator recreation@hcbc.ca ext.1009

Copyright, including electronic, belongs to HCBC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Articles and letters are welcome from members, but must be signed and include a phone number. The publisher reserves the right to revise all material accepted for publication, including articles, columns, photographs, images, and advertisements.

UPCOMING PUBLICATION DATES Fall/Winter 2015 | October 2015 Spring/Summer 2016 | April 2016

About The Cover: “Black Horse and Cherry Tree” - Ellie, a 15 year old Percheron X graces the cover of our Spring/Summer Edition of BC’s Equine Lifestyles. Ellie is owned and photographed by Marion Cox of Marion Photography in Maple Ridge, BC www.divineequine.ca

www.hcbc.ca | 3

PRESIDENT’SMessage

numerous phone calls, emails and the reading of a seemingly endless stream of policies, procedures, bylaws and other documents in order to be up to speed on things at both the Provincial and National level.

As I worked through things I became aware of just how much Horse Council does. Then I realized that one of the most frequently asked questions is “What does Horse Council do for us besides insurance?” It’s a good question so I started to write down the things we offer members…..here is a partial list:

Photo: HCBC President Liz Saunders and Penny

Wow! It’s been five months since I was elected to the position of President of Horse Council. My thanks to everyone for putting their trust in me and electing me to the position. Orville, my predecessor, set a high standard as President and I will strive to continue in that vein and do my best to honour the trust that you have placed in me by working hard on your behalf.

Thank you Orville for your leadership and hard work.

Next and most important is to say hello to all the membership and thank you all for your continuing support of your Provincial equestrian organization. We have such a diverse membership of all ages who enjoy their horses in so many different ways, it seems that we are only limited by our imaginations when it comes to finding new ways to enjoy our horses and ponies.

Many of you also volunteer at an endless variety of events, clubs, organizations, shows…the list goes on…thank you all!

Thanks also to the Horse Council staff for all the great work they do. They are a highly motivated team and well thought of both in BC and across the country. They are extremely professional in their activities and often go the extra mile when following through on projects or serving members. Their expertise in the equine industry often means that they are invited to provide information on equine related issues to other organizations and several members sit on Equine Canada committees.

By now you may be wondering what I have been doing for five months! I recently attended the Equine Education Summit and workshops March 13 -15 in Richmond, where the speakers were world class and the information they presented was enlightening. I have just returned from the Equine Canada Convention in Ottawa and came away with the hope that we can move forward as a united equine industry in which we can have national pride. For the most part I have been busy with 4 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

• Most important after insurance is the health and welfare of the horse and rider/driver/owner and information on a variety of related topics which can be found on the industry page on the website, including the Equine Code of Practice, up to date info on concussions, disaster preparedness and biosecurity; • Grants for a variety of projects through Zone, Core, Participation and Trails funding; • An online trail location database; • Ride & Drive program; • Share the Trails workshops which bring user groups together so ideas and projects can be shared; • Various programs for youth including a fun club for kids called “Pony Tails”, High School credit courses, High School Achievement courses, the Rider Levels program, & Scholarships; • Equine Education events such as the Education Summit and the annual Dressage Symposium, online webinars and courses, and Horse Day at the PNE; • A Provincial Rule Book for Provincial level horse shows for several disciplines, a Provincial level Heritage Championship, Summer Games, the new Legacy Performance Games, & 55+ BC Games; • Workshops and updating clinics for officials and coaches at the Provincial and National levels - we facilitate the testing by which members can become Nationally qualified coaches; • ...and to back all this up, a whole selection of pamphlets and booklets on a wide variety of topics that are available online or by email/phone request.

As I said this is a partial list... I hope this list has provided you with a better understanding of what Horse Council does and what it offers members. All these things are driven by the needs and requests of members, so your feedback and requests are always welcome by email or phone.

Spring is here, so enjoy time with your equines.

Liz Saunders HCBC President

NEWS

HCBC Award Recipients CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2014 RECIPIENTS! Sherman Olson Lifetime Achievement Award Robert Grimshaw Junior Athlete of the Year Courtney Palleson Coach of the Year Rochelle Kilberg Horse Industry Professional of the Year Jodie Moore Bob James Volunteer of the Year Charlene Kostecki Horse of the Year - Competitive STLA Hey’s Dance Class Horse of the Year - Non-Competitive Snap Around Jackie Horse Council BC’s annual awards serve to honour outstanding achievement within BC’s equestrian community. These awards acknowledge those who have stood out from the crowd over the past year and who have made a positive impact on the community as a whole. Each award recipient was nominated by two or more other Horse Council BC members for an award.

Noel Asmar Equestrian is the official sponsor of HCBC’s 2014 Awards and has supplied each 2014 HCBC Award winner with a coveted Hunter Jacket!

Each jacket is beautifully embroidered to recognize each recipient.

As of April 1st, 2015 HCBC has awarded four of the seven recipients.The final three will be awarded in May.

HORSE OF THE YEAR - COMPETITIVE Terre O’Brennan, our HCBC Board Member for Endurance, attended the Arabian Association of BC’s Annual Awards and Banquet on HCBC’s behalf on January 17th. Terre happily presented our award for Horse of the Year - Competitive to

For 2014

STLA Hey’s Dance Class and her owner Sandra Nickolls, trainer Brenda Driedigar, and Breeders Herman Steuneberg and Sandra Arabsky.

Arabian horse, STLA Hey’s Dance Class or “Bug” as she is known around the barn, was the highest scoring horse that competed in the Sport Horse in Hand Division at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and she also placed in the top ten in her Open Liberty Class at the same show. In May 2014, she took home 12 first place wins and Championships with 3 second place finishes and Reserve Championships at the AAHABC Concurrent show at Thunderbird Show Park. Then in August of 2014 at the Royal Red in Manitoba she took home the Canadian National Championship Arabian Mares Sport Horse in Hand Dressage Type Open, Canadian National Reserve Championship in the Hunter Type Open, Canadian National Top Ten Championship in the Amateur to Handle Sport Horse Mares Dressage Type, and Top Ten in the Canadian National Sport Horse In Hand Amateur to Handle Hunter Type.

COACH OF THE YEAR Noni Hartvikson, our HCBC Board Member for Dressage BC, presented our award for Coach of the Year to Rochelle Kilberg. Noni, along with Asmar Equestrian CEO and founder, Noel Asmar presented the award (a lovely embroidered Asmar Hunter Jacket) to Rochelle during a break at the 2015 BC Horse Sport Symposium. Rochelle exemplifies what it means to be a coach. She inspires her students to achieve greatness in all aspects of life, she leads by example, and she believes that practice does indeed make perfect. Rochelle served as the Zone 3 Team Head Coach for Equestrian at the 2014 BC Summer Games where she helped to coach Zone 3 to win gold in overall medal standings. She also was the Dressage Team Head Coach for Team BC at the 2014 Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian an Individual Silver Medal on a leased horse. www.hcbc.ca | 5

NEWS

JUNIOR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Dr. Susan Thompson, our HCBC VP of Education, presented our award for Junior Athlete of the Year to young dressage rider Courtney Palleson.

Susan presented the award, an embroidered Asmar Hunter Jacket to Courtney during a break at the 2015 BC Horse Sport Symposium.

Courtney had an amazing 2014, but success did not come easy. Courtney has worked tirelessly to develop and improve her riding skills and has approached each challenge with determination, perseverance, and the vision that failing isn’t an option. Her outstanding achievements in 2014 in the discipline of dressage were: • • • • • •

Touch of Class Champion BC Heritage Reserve Champion 4 Gold Medals at the BC Summer Games Overall Champion in Dressage and Hack classes at Rising Stars Youth Dressage 3 Silver Medals at the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships (on a leased horse!)

Champion at the Pacific Regional Championship

HORSE INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL Pia Petersen, our HCBC Board Member for the BC Quarter Horse Association, presented our award for Horse Industry Professional of the Year to horse trainer and instructor, Jodie Moore of Moore Performance Horses in Langley, BC. Pia presented an embroidered Asmar Hunter Jacket to Jodie following Jodie’s clinic at the 2015 LMQHA Bazaar on March 14th, 2015 at Thunderbird Show Park.

Jodie has an extensive background in various types of show horses. After a successful youth career, Jodie trained and showed both in British Columbia and for several American farms, winning Regional and National championships along the way. Jodie focuses on training stock horses and coaching youth and amateurs and senior riders.

Moore Performance Horses (MPH) has created a community of knowledgeable horse owners and competitors as demonstrated by the many accomplishments of the riders that have been raised at the Moore Barn. The accomplishments of the riders at MPH are extensive, including multiple APHA and PtHA competitors who have attained top 10 and top 5 at the APHA and PtHA World Shows. This year alone, two of the girls raised at MPH became APHA World and Reserve World champions.

6 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

Jodie also put together and coached the Canadian Team for the APHA Youth World Games which tied with Germany for second place.

HORSE OF THE YEAR NON-COMPETITIVE Snap Around Jackie or Jackie was a ‘jack(ie)-of-all-trades’. She started life as a barrel racing prospect but soon showed a talent for rodeo work including breakaway roping, team roping, and grand entry. She took both her owners to win Team Roping Championships. Jackie then turned into a reining horse at the age of 13. She went on to win many reining championships and year end high point awards in the Western Canadian Reining Association and Pacific Reining Horse Association.

At the age of 18, Jackie was brought out of retirement to start a new career as a vaulting horse. She was the calm horse that young vaulters could learn on. All around, a great horse.

BOB JAMES VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Charlene Kostecki has been a dedicated volunteer parent in Equestrian Vaulting for many years. In 2014 she was an integral part of the successful year of vaulting in BC and for Vault Canada. She is the EVABC Secretary, a Director for Vault Canada, and the BC Representative to Vault Canada.

Charlene was the Show Organizer and Show Secretary for the 2014 BC Vaulting Provincials, the Canadian National Vaulting Championships and the CVI Canada Cup. Charlene worked tirelessly on preparations for each of these competitions, aiming for the highest level of professionalism and sportsmanship at each one. All of her efforts have been an integral part of helping grow Equestrian Vaulting in Canada into a professional and positive sport for competitors and spectators alike.

SHERMAN OLSON LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Robert, or Bob, Grimshaw deserves recognition for not only being on the ground floor of the development of the Quarter Horse industry in British Columbia and Alberta with more than 40 years of hard work and dedication, but for a series of accomplishments while mentoring riders and raising the level of competition. He has impacted the horse industry both locally, provincially, nationally, as well as internationally.

Read Bob’s full bio at www.hcbc.ca/2014-award-recipients.html or stay tuned for the 2015 Fall/Winter edition of BC’s Equine Lifestyles for a full page article on Bob.

The Horses Are Coming.

The Horses Are Coming.

Saturday - August 29th 2015 The Fair at the PNE

Horse Day is heading back to the Fair at the PNE.

The Horses Are Coming.

Saturday - August 29th 2015 The Fair at the PNE

Come down to the Agrodome on Saturday, August 29, 2015 to meet our wonderful volunteers, learn all about horses, and watch our exciting Horse Day Extravaganza riding demos!

Horse Day began as Horse Week back in 2002 as a way to promote and celebrate BC’s horse industry. The goal has always been to share the enjoyment of horses with the public and introduce newcomers to the fun of equestrian activities.

What will you see at Horse Day this year?

The Horses Are Coming.

We’re going to bring back our educational stations to teach everyone about grooming, horse health, different riding styles, and many other interesting topics.

Talk to coaches, vets, and feed experts.

Saturday - August 29th 2015 The Fair at the PNE

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Our Horse Day Extravaganza will be a fast and furious showcase of things you could do with your horse! You won’t want to miss it!

Remember to save the date for this familyfriendly, exciting, and educational event!

See you on August 29th! www.hcbc.ca | 7

NEWS

Photo: Lynn deVries and Propane from Ladysmith, BC.

Ride & Drive Rewards Program With Summer just around the corner, it’s time to get back into that saddle (on a more regular basis) and go for a ride!

We all know that a good ride is its own reward, but the Ride & Drive Program is designed to give BC’s recreational riders and drivers an extra incentive to spend more hours in the saddle or behind the breeching - whether in the arena or on the trails - for practice, exercise, therapy or just plain fun. Get rewarded for doing what you are already doing (which is really the best kind of prize there is)!

The Ride and Drive Rewards Program started in 2004 and was revised in 2013 to update the prize list. Rewards are progressive, starting with the 25 hour level and ending at the 5000 hour level. Hours spent riding or driving must be logged on a daily basis on a Ride & Drive log sheet and submitted at each level.

Participants must renew both their HCBC Membership and their Ride & Drive Rewards Program registration annually in order to continue accumulating hours and to qualify for rewards.

First time registration is $31.50 and includes an Equine Companion Journal. Each subsequent yearly renewal is $10.50 without the Equine Companion Journal or $15.75 with one.

By

PORtaBLE MOuNtiNg aid 1

DraPE

NO ROCK? NO FENCE?

NO PROBLEM

Get back on your horse anywhere, anytime

2

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3

mount

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unDo 8 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

Hairy Back rancH

For mounting Bareback or as a Step up to your Saddle Stirrup

Watch Demo Video at www.HairyBackRanch.com

NEWS

Apply For A 2015HCBC Scholarship!

Let HCBC help you further your education!

HCBC has up to five $1000.00 scholarships available to Horse Council BC members in good standing, who are a BC graduate from grade 12 and entering into a accredited College or University Study program.

CRITERIA • Recipient must be a Horse Council BC member in good standing for at least two years prior to High School graduation or Scholarship application.

• Recipient must be a Graduate from a BC High School and be a resident of BC. • Home Study, Home Schooling, or online programs do not qualify for this scholarship.

CONSIDERATIONS • Volunteer hours at equestrian events and within their community.

• Past or current participant in the HCBC High School Recognition Program.

• Academic excellence, minimum B average on transcript.

• Participation experience at Equestrian events.

• Proven leadership, sportsmanship and contribution to equestrian sport.

• Equine or agricultural studies may be given preference.

• Essay.

APPLICATION PROCESS • Application deadline is June 30th 2015.

• Applications must include a copy of the students interim transcript.

• Applications must include confirmation of intent to enroll in a Post Secondary Program at a college or university.

• Application must include an essay that will reflect the student’s eligibility for this scholarship and outline their post secondary plans. Please tell the scholarship committee why you feel you are a good candidate for the scholarship and outline your contributions to the sport and your community.

• Application must include proof of volunteering.

Learn more about the HCBC Scholarship program and download the application form online at: www.hcbc.ca/scholarships.html

2015 Horse Sport Symposium - Thank You! Thank you to all the riders, spectators, and vendors for coming to Thunderbird Show Park this past February for the HCBC Horse Sport Symposium!

It was a fantastic weekend filled with so much valuable knowledge. Everyone had a great time and learned a lot from our two wonderful clinicians, Ellen Bontje and Dr. Gerd Heuschmann. The painted horse rides with Dr. Heuschmann were particularly popular.

about the Symposium! All your feedback will help influence future events put on by HCBC! Photo Credit © Courtney Fraser.

Thank you also to everyone who responded to our surveys www.hcbc.ca | 9

NEWS

P’Tit Trot Riding Program For Kids

P’tit Trot (pronounced puh-tee trot) is a great and exciting program for children who love horses and want to learn about riding (English or Western) and caring for them.

The P’tit Trot book is fully illustrated throughout and introduces children 5 and over to the basics of English or Western Riding and learning how to care for a horse or pony.

The colourful drawings and the amusing antics of P’tit Trot (the name of the mascot pony), help the child discover and teach themselves the ABC’s of riding and caring for a horse.

PARENTS & COACHES

PROGRAM COST & PACKAGE INFO. The complete program is available from Horse Council BC’s Bookstore for $24.95 plus postage and GST. Included in the program package is a colourfully illustrated four chapter booklet, certificates, and stickers for each level plus lots of extra goodies children will enjoy.

Each of the chapters - Bronze Horseshoe, Silver Horseshoe, Gold Horseshoe and Platinum Horseshoe - cover specific topics on horse care and riding. As the participants complete each chapter, they can place the matching horseshoe sticker on the certificate.

P’tit Trot also offers a website which adds additional information and games. (www.ptittrot.ca) NOTE: Children that belong to HCBC’s Pony Tails Kids Club receive a $10 discount off the purchase of a P’tit Trot package.

Parents and coaches are invited to use this entertaining and educational presentation that is ideal for horse lovers. It can also be used to prepare and support activities offered at riding camps and as preparation to begin the Equine Canada English or Western Learn to Ride levels.

Thank You

Horse Council BC would like to thank the Quebec Equestrian Federation for allowing us to use this program.

Please contact Wendy at coaching@hcbc.ca for more information.

To Our Partners

GOLD

MEDIA

Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

10 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

SILVER

FUNDING

HCBC Wants To Help

Fund Your Next Project!

BC EQUESTRIAN TRAILS FUND

supports equestrian sport growth and is for public use (or open to the public as the case may be). For example, the Southern Interior Dressage Association applied for and received a grant for the purchase of portable stalls for public use at their local arena. They received a core grant of $1000 towards their purchase. Other Core Grants that have been approved over the years have ranged from the purchasing a PA system to assisting with funding for the Regional Pony Club Camp and everything that falls in between!

Check out www.hcbc.ca/core-funding.html for Core Grant applications.

Fund Opens January 1st, 2016 for 2016 applications.

Photo: The Back Country Horsemen of BC - Aldergrove Chapter works diligently building a portion of the South Langley Regional Trail in 2014.

The BC Equestrian Trails Fund (BCETF) was established to provide support for HCBC clubs and affiliates who have researched and planned a specific project related to the construction and/or maintenance of an equestrian trail, trailhead, or horse camping site in British Columbia for public use. The fund for 2015 will total more than $25,000, allocated by the Horse Council BC board of directors and increased annually by individual and corporate contributions. The BCETF money can be used as “seed funding” to obtain additional funding from other granting agencies.

One of the HCBC clubs that successfully applied for and received a BCETF grant in 2014 was the Back Country Horsemen of BC – Aldergrove Chapter. The Aldergrove Chapter is building a connector trail from Campbell Valley and Aldergrove Regional Parks that once complete, will serve as a fantastic multi-use trail in the Fraser Valley. The BCETF was able to contribute $4600 to this great and worthwhile project that benefits all trail users.

Trail and corral building not your club’s cup of tea? Then you need to find out more about Horse Council BC’s Core Grants!

Fund Opens January 1st, 2016 for 2016 applications.

CORE GRANTS In 2014, $13,370.64 was used in Core Grant funding to spread over 11 applicants. Their projects ranged from competitions, both local and high level, to facility and equipment upgrades.

Core Grants can be applied to all manner of things as long as it

PARTICIPATION GRANTS Participation Grants are available to any current HCBC Club that is organizing and running a clinic or event. Your club can receive $250.00 - $500.00 per event (maximum of two events per calendar year per club) for a clinic or event you put on.

In 2014, Horse Council BC awarded over $6000 to more than 15 HCBC Clubs from all over the province to host clinics and club events.

Apply for a Participation Grant online at: www.hcbc.ca/participation-event-grants.html

ZONE GRANTS In 2014, $17,975.44 was given to zone fund applicants. The zone grants were given throughout the province and included projects such as: • Equipment, • Clinics and workshops, • Travel, • Facility upgrades.

Zone funding is dependent on zone requirements and funding reserves. $1.00 from each Horse Council BC membership is given back to the zone from which it came. Traditionally, approval is given for small amounts which benefit HCBC members in that zone.

Funding requests are made directly to the Zone Rep. in your area. To find your zone rep and application forms please visit www.hcbc.ca/zone-funding.html

www.hcbc.ca | 11

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Introducing Zero Waste

Horse Bedding

The manure management challenge that we have is not new.

Back in 1898, London and New York got together for the world’s first international urban planning conference to deal with the manure waste crisis. It seemed urban civilisation was doomed until it was adverted by the invention of the Ford car in 1912.

100 years later we are seeing the same problem arise with high density, highly populated areas of horses and humans living around boarding stables, race tracks, and show grounds.

This is creating thousands of tons of manure every month with nowhere to put it.

THE PROBLEM Horse owners in BC spend more than $20 million per year in bedding materials and manure disposal costs. The industry is facing a growing shortage of affordable wood fibre bedding material, while facing the added challenge of stricter environmental regulations.

THE SOLUTION GreenScene Agritek (GSA) has perfected a way to separate the used horse bedding, consisting of wood chips or shavings, waste hay and organics, through a process of refinement, pasteurization and separation into high quality, premium wood fibre horse bedding. This is then re-distributed in the local area and the remaining organic bi-product is used as the fuel source to run a carbon neutral facility or used as a soil amender depending on local conditions.

GSA has perfected a patented and proprietary closed-loop process including controlling the legal bedding disposal hurdle and eliminating environmental concerns like off-gassing, leaching, and build up.

Barn managers and horse owners can rest assured that GSA’s refined “Golden” HABIT bedding has been through extensive scientific and university testing of both FDA & CFIA approved labs. Each compressed bale fits one standard wheelbarrow for portion control. Refined “Golden” HABIT bedding is a softer, small fibre recycled wood, offering improved absorbency, odour control, and easy stall removal - boosting your horse’s comfort.

12 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

GSA’s new sustainable bedding benefits are: • Locally sourced heattreated, non-toxic wood fibre • Low moisture (10% • Low dust • High absorption rate • Anti-viral & anti-fungal properties • Improved moisture retention • Reduces odours

• Lowers black fly population • Softer cushioning • More comfortable • Quicker removal of urine & manure • Baled/Bagged for safety & portion control • Better health for horses • Affordable • Eco-friendly • Better waste management

“We are building a company based on excellence, innovation and stewardship. We are all members of our neighborhood, supporting each other to create a more sustainable future for our families & the environment.”

GSA’s proprietary process is designed to provide a cost effective solution to the growing waste management problem, while creating a sustainable agricultural business model for the Canadian horse Industry.

“We are excited to bed the stalls at the 2015 HCBC Heritage Championships this July. Come see our booth, our product, and hear testimonials from the horses! Endorsed by our corporate ambassadors, riders, farm owners, and veterinarians.”

Learn more about Greenscene Agritek at www.gsabedding. com or contact Kelly Cross, Media Liaison at 1.877.816.4577 x 117 Funding for this project has been provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the BC Ministry of Agriculture through the Canada-BC Agri-Innovation Program under Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The program is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC. Submitted by Greenscene Agritek Inc.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the BC Ministry of Agriculture are committed to working with industry partners. Opinions expressed in this document are those of GreenScene Agritek Inc. and not necessarily those of AAFC, the Ministry of Agriculture or the Investment Agriculture Foundation.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Back - To - Back Arena

Driving Trials!

WHAT IS COMBINED DRIVING?

RESULTS

Think Eventing, but in a cart or carriage. Oh, and add up to 3 more horses per competitor! A combined driving event (CDE) has the same 3 phases as Eventing: dressage, in a much larger arena to accommodate the length of the driving vehicle and a single, pair or team of four horses; a cones course, run similarly to the stadium jumping phase where hitting one of the cones or refusing an obstacle results in time faults; and the Marathon phase, the driven version of a cross country course, involving navigating tightly through a series of obstacles in a defined pattern along a course of several kms. Combined Driving Events are a long standing equestrian sport in Canada and around the world.

Saturday Level 1: 1st - Shirley Bradbury with her single mini Exclusive 2nd - Kay Veinotte - driving Alice Bourassa’s single pony Echo 3rd - Kay Veinotte - driving Marion Cox’s single horse Ellie 4th - Rosalie Turcotte driving her single pony Patty

ARENA DRIVING The Back-To-Back (March 21 & 22, 2015) event was modified to be held in an indoor arena. Each day was a separately judged 3-phase, both qualifiers for the BC Heritage Championships in July. The event was put on by the BC Carriage Driving Society - Fraser Valley Chapter, hosted by Art Postma at his Deroche farm, and Judged by Kat Armitage. Kat judged for us last spring and was pleased to see the progress of the drivers as well as a few new faces. She had many positive and encouraging comments on our dressage tests.

She did state some of us need to work on our halts...

Carriage driving is a sport attracting diverse equines: the weekend’s competitors included 4 horses, 2 donkeys, 6 miniature horses, and 6 ponies as singles, pairs and one 4 in hand of minis!

Saturday Level 2: 1st - Kay Veinotte driving single horse Tank 2nd - Alice Bourassa driving single pony Pony Girl 3rd - Trudy Leishman driving single pony Jack 4th - Charlie Veinotte driving the pair of horses Ike and Thunder Sunday Level 1: 1st - Rosalie Turcotte driving single pony Patty 2nd - Rosalie Turcotte driving a mini pair Zee and Wiki 3rd - Helen Howell driving mini Sammy 4th - Alice Bourassa driving single pony Echo Sunday Level 2: 1st - Kay Veinotte driving single horse Tank 2nd - Marion Roman driving single pony Charlie 3rd - Dina Popadiuk driving her single horse Spartacus 4th - Charlie Veinotte driving the pair of horses Ike and Thunder What’s Next? Find out about more event and get all the details at: www.bccarriagedriving.com Submitted by Margaret Clark with Photos by Marion Cox

www.hcbc.ca | 13

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

Hay Testing

Helps You Get The Best For Your Buck!

By Shelagh Niblock

(Near Infrared Spectroscopy) and either would be suitable for the analysis of horse hay for the basic nutrients such as Moisture, Dry Matter, Crude Protein, NSC and sugars.

Analyzing hay for trace minerals should always be done using wet chemistry methods. While NIRS can be highly accurate for determining most nutrients in a hay sample, it isn’t recognized as being sufficiently accurate for trace mineral analysis.

HOW DO I READ THE LAB REPORT?

Buying hay for your horse can be a challenge whether you buy it a few bales at a time or buy a year’s supply as soon as it becomes available in the summer. Supply, price and quality have always been important parameters to consider when buying hay for horses, but now, more than ever before, horse owners are becoming aware of the importance of the nutritional components of the hay they feed. Many hay dealers will provide you with a lab analysis for the hay they have for sale. If not, or if you grow your own hay, you’ll need to sample it yourself for laboratory analysis.

HOW DO I SAMPLE MY HAY? The first challenge in getting hay analyzed for nutrient content is obtaining a representative sample. Ideally, sampling hay involves the use of a hay drill suitable for “coring” sufficient bales to get a representative sample. Sampling at least 6-12 bales off the stack is recommended to get an accurate sample.

While coring bales with a proper hay drill is recommended, it is possible to take grab samples (handfuls) of a number of bales (at least 10-12 different bales) if you don’t have a drill. Whether you have cored bales or taken grab samples, the hay you have collected off the stack needs to be well mixed in a large pail and then “sub-sampled”. The sub sample should be of a sufficient amount to fill a large zip lock bag.

When you have your hay sample ready it should be packed in water proof packaging and either personally delivered or sent via postal service, bus or courier to the lab of your choice. Make sure you have included your name, and phone number or email address so that you can be advised when your hay analysis is completed. Analysis options can include wet chemistry or NIRS 14 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

As Fed versus Dry Matter Basis Your first look at your hay analysis report may be intimidating.

You will see a large collection of numbers, usually arrayed in two columns labelled as ‘As Fed” and “Dry Matter Basis”.

For the purposes of evaluating the hay for your horse you will most often consult the “Dry Matter Basis” column. Both sets of numbers represent the actual amount of the specific nutrient in the hay but the As Fed column is reported with the values expressed as a percentage of the feed including the weight of the moisture in it. The Dry Matter Basis column is reporting the nutrients expressed as a percentage of the feed without the moisture included. Every feedstuff has moisture…some have more than others. In order to accurately compare the inputs into your horse’s diet of one feedstuff relative to another it is important to compare them on a “dry matter basis” so that the nutrients they contribute are not being “diluted” in percentage by the moisture present in the feed. Grass or alfalfa hay should ideally be 90% dry matter or over, indicating the presence of 10% moisture or less. More than 10% moisture in a hay sample could indicate a higher risk for mould or heating in the bales.

Crude Protein Crude protein is an estimation of the total protein content of a feed. It is determined by analyzing the nitrogen content of the feed and multiplying the result by 6.25. Protein in some feedstuffs such as grass silage or haylage can be further differentiated by criteria such as protein digestibility and protein quality. Generally grass or alfalfa hays that are 90% dry matter or above and harvested at a pre-bloom or pre-boot stage contain a high quality protein of superior digestibility.

The requirement for protein in the hay by a horse will vary according to what other feeds are being offered, the work level of the horses and the metabolic state ie. growing mature, breeding stallion, lactating mare etc. The protein requirements of horses are well documented in the National Research Council Nutrient Guidelines for Horses available on line at: http://nrc88.nas.edu/nrh/

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

The hay you should buy for your horse should be high enough in Crude Protein (%) to ensure that maintenance protein requirements for your horse are being met. Ideally this means finding hay with crude protein in the range of 10%-14% on a dry matter basis (DM). Hay that is lower in CP than 10% could possibly have high NSC (nonstructural carbohydrate) values so use caution in buying low protein “maintenance” hays.

ADF and NDF and Lignin The terms ADF and NDF stand for Acid Detergent Fibre and Neutral Detergent Fibre respectively. These terms refers to the cell wall portions of the forage that are made up of hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin. These values are important because they give an indication to the ability of the horse to digest your hay to its component nutrients. As forage matures the ADF, NDF and Lignin values tend to increase. As ADF, NDF and Lignin increase, digestibility of hay usually decreases. The energy measurements such as DE (Digestible Energy) reported on your hay analysis are calculated using the ADF, NDF and Lignin values.

ESC, WSC, Starch and NSC The terms ADF, NDF and lignin are all used to help quantify the cell walls in your hay test. The terms ESC, WSC, Starch and NSC are all used to describe the cell content portions of the hay. The terms ESC and WSC stand for ethanol soluble carbohydrate and water soluble carbohydrate respectively. ESC is a measure of the very simple sugars and WSC is a measure of the ESC plus the more complex sugars present in the hay sample. The difference between WSC and ESC is essentially the complex storage sugar called fructan. Forage testing labs are not yet testing specifically for this sugar but it is possible to get an idea of the fructan content of your grass hay by subtracting the ESC value from the WSC value. The difference is the approximate percentage of the fructan in your hay sample. There is increasing evidence from on going research that fructan is a carbohydrate compound that may be causing significant health issues for our metabolically challenged horses.

store carbohydrate. Most cool season grasses do not store plant carbohydrates as starch and so it isn’t usually very significant component of hay.

The sum of WSC (equal to roughly the ESC and fructan content of the hay) and the starch is equal to the NSC or Non-Structural Carbohydrate. NSC is the number commonly used by equine nutritionists and horse owners as a parameter for “safe” hay for metabolically challenged horses. The rule of thumb for feeding a horse with health issues such as Insulin Resistance, Cushings Disease or Pre -Laminitic Syndrome is sourcing hay with an NSC value of 10% or less on a dry matter basis.

Nitrate Nitrate is a nitrogen containing compound that can be toxic to horses if ingested in large enough amounts. Hay can become high in nitrate if it is irrigated by high nitrate water, excessive applications of nitrogen containing fertilizers or if the hay field is infested with weeds that are high in nitrate. High nitrate can cause gastro- intestinal irritation, colic and/or diarrhea in your horse but the biggest risk from nitrate is that of nitrite toxicity.

Nitrate is converted to the more toxic nitrite in the hind gut of the horse by the fibre fermenting bacteria. Once converted, the nitrite travels through the gut wall into the blood stream where is interferes with the ability of the horse’s red blood cells to carry oxygen. Clinical signs of nitrite toxicity are laboured breathing or panting, ataxia, convulsions, grey or bluish mucosa, abortions in pregnant animals and death. Ensure that nitrate levels on your hay test are low or negligible.

Starch is a complex form of sugar that the plant may use to www.hcbc.ca | 15

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE DE – Digestible Energy Energy is frequently described as being a nutrient but in actual fact is a measure of the “fuel” provided for the horse by other nutrients. DE or digestible energy is a calculated value that is an attempt to quantify the amount of “fuel” provided by a feedstuff. On your lab report, DE is a computer derived calculation that has taken into consideration all the nutrients contained in the hay.

Digestible energy is quantified in terms of calories, or in horse nutrition, megacalories (MCAL), and a unit of measurement equal to 1 million calories. Calories are the units of energy that represent a standardized amount of heat released when organic compounds undergo combustion in the animal’s bodies.

Comparing feedstuffs for your horse on DE alone can be misleading. Higher fibre, lower digestibility feeds that might be suitable for an overweight horse because they would reduce intake, could have a high DE because cellulose as a complex carbohydrate, can actually have moderately high calorie content. DE doesn’t give us a good indication of the digestibility of a feed or how readily the horse will eat it.

Mature Sedentary

Mature Working

Metabolically Challenged

Dry Matter/ Moisture (%)

88-92 / 8-12

88-92 / 8-12

88-92 / 8-12

Crude Protein (%)

10-15

12-16

10-16

ADF (%)

30-40

30-40

30-40

NDF (%)

50-60

50-60

50-60

WSC (%)

14 or less

17 or less

10 or less

NSC (%)

<15

<18

<10

<0.44

<0.44

<0.44

2 Mcal ± 0.2

2 Mcal ± 0.2

2 Mcal ± 0.2

Nitrates (%) Digestible Energy/kg

WHERE TO GET YOUR HAY TESTED

WHAT IS A GOOD HAY TEST? You now have your hay test in your hand but do you know what those numbers need to be for your horse? What constitutes a good hay test? That will depend on your horse and his age, amount of work, weather condition and whether he has any pre-existing metabolic conditions. We all know that insulin resistant horses have a low tolerance for high sugar hays but if your insulin resistant horse is a mature pasture ornament he may not require the higher protein level commonly found in low sugar hays. It is important to use some common sense in selecting hays and balance your horse’s diet for the hay in your barn by making it a part of a more varied diet including other safe fibre sources if it doesn’t exactly fit your horses unique set of requirements.

Guidelines The following is a table with some guidelines to follow when interpreting your hay analysis. Remember these are guidelines only and a lab report with a nutrient that falls outside these guidelines is not necessarily a cause for major concern. One of the most important criteria in buying hay, regardless of the lab analysis is the quality. Is it clean, free from weeds and extraneous material like sticks etc. The best hay analysis in the world becomes of secondary importance if the hay is mouldy or hot to the touch when you open a bale. Remember that regardless of your hay test your horse will be healthier if you follow some basic feeding principles including small meals fed often and ample fresh water.

16 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

Hi Pro Feeds 46255 Chilliwack Central Rd, Chilliwack, BC V2P 1J7 (604) 702-4500.

Hay samples are $25 and turn-around time is usually about a day. Reports on all the pertinent info for equine hay analysis including WSC, ESC, NSC, protein, ADF and DE. The hay analysis service includes a consultation about the results if desired with Shelagh Niblock.

A hay drill is available for rent with a refundable deposit at the Mill Store. Phone: 604-792-0678 Otter Co-op Toll Free: (800) 663-6038 extension 6901 Hay analysis at a cost $25 per test. The analysis usually takes 3-5 business days not including weekends and is sent to Agri Trend Analytics in Calgary. All results are confidential and an additional dry matter summary is drafted as our nutritionists want to separate (analyze) carbohydrate according to fate (affect) on the animal. In other words, is the carbohydrate fermentable or does it cause a glycemic response? Summary includes Moisture, Protein, NSC, ESC, ADF, NDF, Lignin and other components.

COACHES CORNER

The Equine Canada The Equine Canada (EC) developed Learn to Ride Program is for individuals who wish to learn safe horsemanship skills and practices. The purpose of the program is to produce well-rounded riders, who are able to care for and ride their horses in a correct and safe manner.

The program is available for both English and Western. It provides a systematic process to introduce new riders to equestrian sport and presents the basics of good riding. Since proper riding technique is best developed only with the aid of an accredited instructor, the program has been designed to be delivered by an EC Certified Coach or Instructor.

There is no age limit for riders to take part in this program. At the time of testing, riders must be HCBC members.

The Rider Program is self-paced and student led. A rider can go quickly through the levels or they can take several years to achieve the highest level. Riders can enter the program at any level that is suitable for their current riding ability. The exams are administered by an EC Coach or Instructor. The completed exam papers are sent to the HCBC office with the admin fee of $15.75 and the successful rider is sent a badge and certificate for each level they complete. The manuals are available from the Horse Council BC online store.

WESTERN RIDER LEVEL 1-4 PROGRAM Rider Level 1 Students will be able to halter, tie and groom the horse and demonstrate proper horse handling on the ground. They will saddle, bridle, mount and dismount correctly. Maintain an acceptable position of the body, the legs, and the hands at the walk, jog and lope. Demonstrate the proper aids for the three gaits and recognition of leads. Demonstrate properly the elementary method of stopping and backing up. Demonstrate the rein effects of the direct and opening rein.

Rider Levels

Rider Level 2 Students will be able to demonstrate the proper riding position with the use of one hand and two handed positions and post on the correct diagonal and change diagonals. Maintain a proper riding position of the body, legs and hands. Demonstrate variations of speed at the lope and execute transitions of the gaits. Name and demonstrate the effects of the indirect rein and the neck and be able to identify the correct lead.

Rider Level 3 Students will be able to explain the rein of opposition. Bandage four legs correctly as well as name and describe three bits and explain their use. Name and demonstrate the effect of leg aids and execute turn on the forehand and turn on the haunches.

Rider Level 4 Students will be able to understand and explain basic collection, execute a simple change of leads, side pass and two track movements. Demonstration of proper lungeing procedures is required.

WESTERN INTERMEDIATE RIDER PROGRAM The Western Intermediate Rider Program was developed for those individuals who wish to discover the many disciplines available in western riding at the competitive level, from Western Performance to Reining to Speed Events. In order to participate in the Intermediate Rider Program, candidates must hold a Western Level 4 certificate.

ENGLISH RIDER LEVEL 1-10 PROGRAM Level 1 Riders should be in the beginning stages of their Equestrian development. At the Rider Level 1, riders acquire the basics of riding and demonstrate of good position, knowledge of “aids” and emphasize “safe” habits.

Level 2 The rider will become more independent in both their riding and in their stable management skills.

Level 3 Riders will develop stability, control and will now demonstrate the ability to ride independently. Riders are now expected to ride an individual flat test and complete a cross-rail jumping course. www.hcbc.ca | 17

COACHES CORNER Level 4 Riders are starting to co-ordinate the use of the independent aids. The Riders must be able to recognize an incorrect lead within a few steps and correct it without delay. Riders complete a flat test and ride jumps at a height of 2’ (0.6m).

Level 5 Riders at Level 5 should have a solid awareness of a horse and an ability to maintain rhythm and relaxation. Non-progressive transitions are introduced. Riders at this level will be jumping fences at a height of 2’3” (0.7m) and a flat test.

Level 6 Riders at Level 6 will demonstrate the ability to ride forward from leg to hand. They will be able to ride the horse forward with impulsion while maintaining rhythm, regularity and evenness of pace. Riders at Level 6 will complete a flat test and jump fences at a height of 2’6” (0.8m).

Level 7 Riders at Level 7 ride with consistent contact supported by the leg maintaining rhythm, suppleness, contact, and impulsion, and is aware of lateral and longitudinal suppleness and appropriate suppling exercises. They can lengthen and shorten stride at trot. Riders at Level 7 will complete a flat test and jump fences at a height of 2’9” (0.88m).

For the Dressage module, the test will be a Third Level.

Candidates taking the Eventing module will be expected to ride at the Training Level.

The Rider 10 will be required to perform all of the requirements of the Rider 9. However, the Rider 10 will be evaluated on their ability to ride three unfamiliar horses at the evaluation.

For more information on the Equine Canada Rider programs contact coaching@hcbc.ca or visit www.hcbc.ca.

2015 Coaching Dates English Evaluation May 5 and/or 6, 2015 - Abbotsford, BC Western IOB Evaluation May 23 - 24, 2015 - Grand Forks, BC

Level 8 Riders at Level 8 are competent with sound equitation skills.

The Rider 8 is beginning to ride the horse with impulsion and engagement. They can achieve consistent bend and straightness as required. The Rider Level 8 is able to identify basic training problems and offer options for their correction.

NCCP High Performance Module May 11, 2015 - HCBC Office - Aldergrove, BC Time: 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Cost: $31.50 (includes GST) Pre-registration is required by May 1, 2015

Over fences, the Rider 8 will complete a flat test and jump a medal type courses of 2’9” (0.88m) - 3’ (0.91m). The Rider Level 8 will be able to influence the horse in a positive fashion and improve his way of going.

English Evaluation May 12 and/or 13, 2015 - Nanaimo, BC

Level 9 & 10 Candidates for Rider 9 have realized that their skill progression has been achieved by doing, and now have developed their ability to assimilate information by exposure to various training opportunities. In the jumping module, candidates will ride a predetermined medal style course set at 3’3”-3’6” (1.0-1.10M).

18 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

This course is recommended for HP1 Candidates, however coaches of all levels are welcome to attend.

English Evaluation June 2 and/or 3, 2015 - Interior (TBA) English Evaluation October 27 and/or 28, 2015 Please contact HCBC Coaching & Education Manager, Wendy Sewell at coaching@hcbc.ca for more information and registration for each event.

BC Heritage Circuit CHAMPIOnSHIPS

5 1 0 2 , 5 , 4 , 3 July Centre ts r o p S iu q E e g id Maple R Maple Ridge, BC

$10,000 in Cash & Prizes Find out more online at www.hcbc.ca

COMPETITION

Join Us In July For The BC Heritage Championships

BC Heritage is a Provincial program designed to showcase the diverse riding disciplines across British Columbia. Horse Council BC supports community horse clubs and encourages riders, coaches, and breeders to achieve personal success while having fun at competitions at an introductory or grassroots level.

BC Heritage is an affordable competition that promotes and encourages participation and develops riding skills. Go western, english, hunter, hack, jumper, dressage, vault, and drive! Any breed of horse and competitors of all ages and skill levels can participate in the qualifiers and be a part of BC Heritage.

There is plenty of opportunity to qualify for the year end BC Heritage Championships held each July with $10,000 dollars in prize money! The annual Championships reward riders, owners and trainers for their dedication having qualified locally at a minimum number of qualifier competitions throughout the

province of BC.

HOW DO YOU GET TO THE BC HERITAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS? Maple Ridge Equi-Sport Centre (MREC) will once again host the Championships in 2015, all you have to do is enter!

Just complete the Championship entry form and indicate what TWO qualifying shows you attended between June 25, 2014 and June 24, 2015 and that’s it! You are now ‘qualified’ to enter the Championships in July!

The qualifying season begins and ends June 25th of the current year. To find a qualifying competition go to: www.hcbc.ca/ competiton.html for an up-to-date list of horse shows identified as BC Heritage Qualifiers or take a look at the page to your right for a list of BC Heritage Qualifiers as of April 1, 2015.

Start Prepping For The 2016 BC Summer Games A once in a lifetime competition!

Equestrians ages 11 - 18 years old, start prepping for the 2016 BC Summer Games in Abbotsford, BC! Competitors must reside in the zone for which they are competing and they must compete with the same horse that they qualified on.

The BC Summer Games will be hosting Jumping, Dressage, 20 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

Para-Dressage, and Vaulting equestrian events on July 21 - 24, 2016.

The qualifying season starts April 1, 2015.

To find a qualifying competition go online to: www.hcbc.ca/ competiton.html for an up-to-date list of horse shows identified as BC Summer Games Qualifiers.

COMPETITION

BC Heritage Circuit Qualifiers Qualifiers are updated daily - Check out the complete listings at: www.hcbc.ca/competition-dates.html

DRESSAGE April 10 - 12, 2015

Thunderbird CDI 3* JY Langley, BC

Ali Buchanan 778-928-5300

April 10 - 12, 2015

Thunderbird Dressage Season Opener Langley, BC

Ali Buchanan 778-928-5300

April 12, 2015

LIEC Percentage Day Saanich, BC

Dawn Folliott 250-665-6610

April 18, 2015

CVES Dressage Schooling Show Langley, BC

Janeen Penner 604-855-1152

April 19, 2015

Rosewyn Dressage Schooling Show Langley, BC

Monique Fraser 604-897-4744

April 25, 2015

Highpoint Welcome Training Show Langley, BC

Kim Dennis 604-530-1919

May 3, 2015

DRC Percent Day Delta, BC

Sheila Forsyth 604-505-2325

May 9, 2015

LIEC Percentage Day Saanich, BC

Dawn Folliott 250-665-6610

May 16 - 17, 2015

Kelowna Dressage Festival Kelowna, BC

May 22 - 24, 2015

DRIVING May 17, 2015

CTBSD Field Trials 70 Mile House, BC

Ken Huber 250-456-6050

June 19 - 21, 2015

Summer Fun Driving Weekend Quesnel, BC

Joan McNaughton 250-992-7485

GENERAL PERFORMANCE April 26, 2015

SCQHA Fuzzy Horse Show Armstrong, BC

Carolyn Farris 250-546-6083

April 26, 2015

Peachland Riding Club Gymkhana

Darlene Pappas 250-462-0169

May 8 - 10, 2015

Spruce Ridge Pony Club Spring Warm Up Prince George, BC

Jennifer Erickson 250-962-8085

May 17, 2015

DRC Hunter Jumper Hack Show Delta, BC

Leslie Dowler 604-910-9916

Ashton Koroscil-Leclair 250-862-0516

May 24, 2015

DRC English/Western Show Delta, BC

Leslie Dowler 604-910-9916

Southlands Spring Dressage Show Vancouver, BC

Telf Maynard telf@southlandsridingclub.com

May 31, 2015

Peachland Riding Club Gymkhana 2 Peachland, BC

Darlene Pappas 250-462-0169

May 30, 2015

Highpoint Diamond Dressage Series Langley, BC

Kim Dennis 604-530-1919

June 14, 2015

DRC Hunter Jumper Hack Show Delta, BC

Leslie Dowler 604-910-9916

May 30 - 31, 2015

SIDA Spring Dressage Show Salmon Arm, BC

Isabel Reinertson lacres@telus.net

June 21, 2015

DRC English/Western Show Delta, BC

Leslie Dowler 604-910-9916

June 6 - 7, 2015

LIEC June Bug Show Saanich, BC

Dawn Folliott 250-665-6610

June 7, 2015

DRC Percent Day Delta, BC

Sheila Forsyth 604-505-2325

April 19, 2015

Mari Jean Maher 604-874-7174

June 12 - 14, 2015

A Touch of Class Dressage Show Langley, BC

Ali Buchanan 778-928-5300

Buddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Vaultapaloosa Surrey, BC

May 2, 2015

Mainstream Springfest Victoria, BC

Stella French 250-474-0917

June 20 - 22, 2015

Kamloops Dressage Show Kamloops, BC

Kerri Jewell Harrison kerryljh@gmail.com

May 28 - 31, 2015

Future Champions Chilliwack, BC

Charlene Kostecki 604-992-7220

May 28 - 30, 2015

CVI 3* Chilliwack Chilliwack, BC

Charlene Kostecki 604-992-7220

April 4, 2015

LMQHA All Breed Open Schooling Show Langley, BC

Jeneane Evans 604-290-1157

April 17 - 19, 2015

BC Half Arabian Spring Show Langley, BC

Tara Lumb 604-531-5159

HUNTER/JUMPER April 10 - 12, 2015

MREC Season Opener Hunter Jumper Show Maple Ridge, BC

Phyllis Attrill 604-817-5109

April 23 - 26, 2015

Thunderbird Outdoor Season Opener Hunter Jumper Show Langley, BC

Shauna Adamson 604-888-4585

VAULTING

BREED

www.hcbc.ca | 21

COMPETITION Photo credit:Rebecca Berry

55 + Games (Formerly Senior Games) 55 + BC Games (formerly the BC Senior Games) is set to take place August 25 - 29, 2015 in North Vancouver.

The 55+ Games is open to all equestrians aged 55+! Register to compete in the equestrian events at the North Shore Equestrian Centre (TBD) in North Vancouver before June 25, 2015. The equestrian disciplines being offered at the games this year are: • Dressage • Western Dressage • Limited Distance 35km Endurance Ride • 15km Endurance “Fun Ride” The 55+ Games are a great experience and a lot of fun! We invite everyone who is eligible to take part in the games in 2015. Come and enjoy the friendly competition, the beautiful

In North Vancouver

scenery and the amazing people who call North Vancouver home. From Dragon Boating in Cates Park to a Thursday night event you will not want to miss, this year’s games promises to deliver the very best the North Shore has to offer. The North Vancouver 2015 55+ BC Games Society hopes to welcome 4000 participants and be serviced by 1500 volunteers! It will be a busy time so plan early for an unforgettable experience in North Vancouver in August 2015. Check out the games here: www.55plusgames.ca

55+ BC Games Background The 55+ BC Games is an annual multisport competition celebrating active, healthy Seniors and 55+ in BC. The North Vancouver 2015 55+ BC Games Society is the Host Society responsible for planning and delivering the Games.

Kamloops Performance Legacy Games 2015 Equestrians of all ages are invited to compete in the equestrian disciplines of Dressage and Jumping at this years Kamloops Legacy Performance Games on July 23 26, 2015!

of excellence in sport. The Kamloops Sports Council was contracted to plan, organize, create and deliver the Legacy Performance Games. The Legacy Games offer a Games experience to athletes that may miss out on participating in “elite” Games. For example, not all summer sports or age groups are included in a Western Canada or Canada Summer Games.

The vision of the Legacy Performance Games is to be dedicated to the development

To find out more about the Legacy Performance Games, please check out the website at www.kamloopssportscouncil.com or e-mail Sport Chair Cat Armitage at: foxwillowLB@gmail.com.

22 | Equine Lifestyles Spring/Summer 2015

TRAILS & RECREATION

Share The Trails

5 1 0 2 p orksho

W

for themselves, what challenges and opportunities they faced, and what the best solutions to those challenges have been.

A particularly poignant part of the workshop was the 1-degree talk. Hugh spoke of how at 211 degrees Fahrenheit water is super-hot. Add one more degree and it begins to boil. The steam produced from boiling water can power a locomotive, showing us how just that 1 extra degree of effort can have an effect more powerful than we can imagine and can make all the difference in anything we focus our energies on.

HCBC’s annual Share the Trails workshop was a smashing success thanks to the entertaining, engaging, and educational feature presentation of the Powell River Experience. Speakers Hugh Prichard, Paul Kamon, and Eagle Walz brought the audience along with them as they toured the Sunshine Coast Trail, exploring the different infrastructure along the way, and looking at the communities that the trail runs through.

Hugh offered us his experience as a wilderness guide and Outdoor Educator by acting as our workshop guide; navigating us through the combination of presentations, dialogues, and audience activities. Using the tool of audience participation, he encouraged everyone to explore what trails and amenities were available in their own community and then discuss those opportunities with people they only just met.

Paul inspired the audience with his presentation of the Powell River Story and what the region has to offer. We went on a guided virtual tour of the Upper Sunshine Coast trails and learned of the different trail users that travel this region.

John Hawkings, newly appointed Director of Recreation Sites and Trails BC, dedicated the afternoon session to the discussion of the Provincial Trails Advisory Body and the recent policy changes regarding BC’s rail trails. The audience broke off into groups and discussed how these changes would affect rail trails near their community. During the discussion everyone was encouraged to come up with questions or concerns to present to John. After an enthusiastic break-out session, John was able to answer each question in turn.

Horse Council BC wants to thank the contributions of Hugh Prichard, Paul Kamon, Eagle Walz, and John Hawkings, and a special thank you to Jeremy McCall and the Executive at the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC for sponsoring this workshop for a third year in a row and for the incalculable planning and hosting support that made this workshop our most successful Share the Trails workshop thus far. We look forward to planning for next year!

Share the

Eagle brought to our audience the perspective of the ‘Champion’ of the world class Sunshine Coast Trail. He discussed where the vision came from, what goals they set out

Trails

If you would like to find out more about this workshop, please visit: http://www.hcbc.ca/STT-2015.html or email: recreation@hcbc.ca. www.hcbc.ca | 23