December 2024 Digital Edition

For the Everyday Equestrian

December 2024

In this Issue:

THE HOLIDAY GIVING GUIDE Cover Story:

THE

YELLOWSTONE EFFECT

How a TV Show Reignited the Love of the American Cowboy

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Visit: https://midsouthhorsereview.com/ equestrian-impact-awards

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Publisher’s Note

Lauren Abbott with her horses Josie, Gage, and Kevin. Photo by Kindred Spirit Photography

Dear Readers,

As we find ourselves at the close of 2024, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the journeys we’ve embarked on and to envision the promising paths that lie ahead. This year has been a tapestry of accomplishments and lessons, both in business and in my beloved equestrian pursuits. It’s a period to celebrate achievements, assess goals, and set the stage for 2025.

Now, as the holiday season is upon us, its a time traditionally filled with warmth, gratitude, and generosity. In the world of business, it’s the climax of the year—a bustling time of both closing chapters and opening new opportunities. And for us equestrians, it also presents a unique opportunity to reflect on where we are with our horses and where we want to be with our horses.

As equestrians our horses are always teaching us something new, and giving us a cherished lifestyle. Have you ever thought about how to give back to horses, the industry, the people and the businesses that keep us thriving with

our horses?

During this holiday season, I encourage you to consider the incredible impact of shopping local for your equestrian gifts, and to consider donating to your community equine nonprofits.

Throughout our Giving Guide section, you’ll find a curated list of gifts, many highlighting small equine businesses and nonprofits. These equine specific businesses and nonprofits play a vital role in providing care, education, and support across the equestrian landscape, ensuring that every horse and rider has an opportunity to thrive. This is the time of year to help support their businesses and missions. Whether you are looking to purchase gifts for fellow barn friends and family, or need to make suggestions to a spouse, remember that you help keep our equestrian industry thriving through your support as a consumer and/ or donor or volunteer.

This past year hasn’t just been about achievements; it has also been about fostering new relationships and connections. In an age where time seems to slip through our fingers, being inten-

tional with our focus and purpose has never been more crucial. Whether it’s strengthening bonds within our equestrian circles or forming new alliances, the relationships we cultivate have the potential to propel us forward in both personal and professional realms.

In closing, I want to extend my heartfelt thank you to each of you— our readers, equestrian enthusiasts, and philanthropic partners—for your continued support and passion. Together, we’ve created a community that champions excellence and kindness, both in the arena and beyond.

From all of us here at The Horse Review we wish you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, and a Happy New Year brimming with possibilities. May 2025 be a year of success, fulfillment, and meaningful connections, both in business and in our shared passion for horses.

Warm regards,

Publisher & President

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Horse Health

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Understanding Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM): A Silent Threat to Horses

By Lauren Abbott

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quine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a disease that every horse owner should be aware of. It’s a neurological condition that can have devastating effects on the health and well-being of horses if not diagnosed and treated promptly. In this first part of our four-part series on EPM, we will explore what this disease is, how it affects horses, and why it poses such a significant threat.

What is Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM)?

EPM is a serious neurological disorder in horses caused by the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona. This parasite attacks the central nervous system of equines, leading to a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. Jennifer Rush, DVM, of Tennessee Equine Hospital states, “EPM is a neurologic disease of horses caused by a protozoal infection of the central nervous system involving the organisms Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora hughesi. While the information on the lifecycle of N. Hughesi is incredibly limited, the 2-host lifecycle of S. Neurona is broadly understood to jump between the opossum gastro-intestinal tract and the muscle tissue of multiple intermediate hosts.

Instead of encysting within the muscle tissue, the parasites abnormally migrate to the central nervous system.”

How Do Horses Contract EPM? Horses contract EPM through expo-

sure to the infective stage of the parasite, which is found in the feces of infected opossums. According to Kyla Szemplinski, MS, at UT TSU Shelby County Extension, horses are infected by “consuming forage, feed or water that is contaminated with the infective protozoa feces.”

When horses consume contaminated feed or water, they ingest the sporocysts, which then invade the bloodstream and reach the central nervous system. This process of transmission makes EPM a concern for horse owners, especially those in areas with a high opossum population. According to Kyla, “there is a possibility for long term effects/relapses and some horses do not even survive.” While Dr. Jennifer notes, “infected horses are considered dead-end hosts and are not a biosecurity risk to infect other horses,” which can be good news if a single horse in a herd is diagnosed with EPM. It does not mean others will also show signs, symptoms, or become infected with EPM.

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Which Horses are Most Susceptible to Contracting EPM? While any horse can potentially contract EPM, certain factors increase susceptibility. Horses under stress, such as those undergoing intense training, transportation, or experiencing changes in feed or environment, are more vulnerable. Young horses, senior horses and those with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk. Additionally, horses living in areas with a high prevalence of opossums are more likely to be exposed to the parasite.

damage within the nervous system. This unpredictability makes EPM a particularly complicated disease to diagnose and treat.

How Long Does it Take for Horses to Show Symptoms?

The time it takes for symptoms of EPM to appear can vary greatly. Some horses show signs within a couple of weeks of exposure, while others may not display symptoms for months or even years. This variability can make early detection challenging. Veterinarians emphasize that early intervention is critical in managing EPM, so horse owners should be vigilant in monitoring their animals for any changes in behavior or gait.

How Does EPM Attack the Horse Overall?

Once the parasite reaches the central nervous system, it begins to cause inflammation and damage to neural tissues.

This can lead to a wide range of neurological symptoms, from mild coordination issues like tripping, to severe paralysis and incoordination such as falling down unexpectedly.

The exact symptoms depend on the location and extent of the

Inforgraphic by American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) https://aaep.org

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Why is EPM a Severe Disease in Horses?

EPM is severe because it directly impacts the nervous system, affecting a horse’s ability to move and function normally. If left untreated, the disease can progress rapidly, leading to irreversible damage and, in some cases, death. The severity of EPM also lies in its ability to mimic other neurological disorders, complicating diagnosis and treatment efforts.

Why is EPM a Complicated Disease in Horses?

EPM is complicated due to its complex lifecycle, varied symptoms, and the challenges associated with diagnosis.

Differentiating EPM from other neurological disorders requires a thorough evaluation and often multiple diagnostic tests. Treatment can be lengthy and costly, with no guarantee of complete recovery. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, “About 60 to 70 percent of horses treated for EPM will improve, but it is estimated that only 15 to 25 percent will recover completely.” Szemplinski notes that “EPM is a challenging disease but prevention can be key to protecting your horses.”

Understanding EPM and its impact on horses is the first step in safeguarding your equine companions. In the next part of our series, we will discuss the first signs and symptoms of EPM, ranging from the very mild to more advanced stages.

Please stay updated to learn how to recognize the early indicators of this serious disease and how to take action quickly.

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Horse Health

Benefits of Slow Hay Feeders

By Alicia Johnson, RN, BSN

Horse owners and caregivers are prepared to feed hay in some form as winter approaches. Typically, a horse will eat 2-2.5% of its body weight per day in hay throughout the winter months. This means a horse weighing around 1,100 lbs. will eat roughly 16.5-27.5 lbs. of hay every day. Whether you prefer to feed square or round bales, you probably want to make the hay last as long as possible while eliminating waste and keeping your equines from devouring it too quickly, all while maintaining a healthy gut in the horses. A slow hay feeder can be a great tool to ensure you are making the most of your hay.

A slow hay feeder is simply a device made of netting or panels that covers the hay and allows your horse to eat more deliberately and therefore, slowly. They come in a variety of types and sizes to fit your hay needs. From smaller, individual slow feeder nets that can be hung in stalls, to hay slow feeders for individual square bales, to round bale slow feeders up to 6’x 6’, there are many options on the market today. Toys and hay pillows designed to slow feed while engaging your equine are available, as well as slow hay feeders made to be used in

conjunction with equine hay baskets. DIY options for slow hay feeders can be found on the internet and include using rubber troughs, stock tanks, pallets, netting, paneling, and more to create a successful, homemade slow hay feeder.

While some equines eat every bit of hay dropped, many refuse to eat hay once it is on the ground. Some equines will use hay on the ground as a bathroom, or a bed, or just something to play with. Whatever the reasoning behind not eating it, this hay is now wasted. It is estimated 60% of a round bale (without a slow feeder or hay ring) is wasted. So for a $100 roll, $60 of it is now wasted, uneaten hay. Use of a hay ring will decrease the amount wasted to 20%; however, a round bale slow feeder net provides better results, lowering the amount of wasted hay in a round bale to a mere 6%.

As your hay savings increases with a hay slow feeder, the amount of days in between putting out another round bale will also increase. Depending on several factors: herd size, hay type and quality, and bale size, generally speaking, most round bales will last somewhere between 5-14 days without a slow feeder.

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With the use of one it is possible to get an extra 3-7 days out of a round bale.

The use of a slow feeder round bale net in conjunction with a hay ring is a favorable feeding choice. The hay ring can help extend the life of a slow feeder net by preventing equines from potentially destructive behaviors, such as rubbing and pawing the net. For shod horses, a hay ring will prevent these equines from hooking a shoe. Equestrian, Julia Whitehead chooses to use this combination, pointing out not only is it beneficial in eliminating waste, but it is “also helpful at limiting the pace of eating for easy keepers while still giving them access to constant forage.”

If the task of applying a slow feeder net seems daunting- do not worry! It can be done easily with or without a tractor and hay spear. In both cases, just throw the net over the round bale like a blanket and cinch it up according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do have a tractor with a hay spear, you can enclose the entire roll once it is raised off the ground. No tractor, no worries: the bottom of the roll touching the ground does not have to be fully enclosed, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is important to note there are other benefits to slow hay feeders besides the most obvious of saving hay. Not only do slow hay feeders help horses maintain healthy digestion, but they provide horses with mental stimulation as well. By extending the time it takes for an equine to eat (compared to free foraging), saliva production is increased. This is important as adequate saliva in a horse’s digestive tract helps protect the horse from stomach issues, such as colic, ulcers, and more. Slow hay feeders also work to prevent boredom. Slow feeder hay balls, bags, pillows, and racks can all be used to actively engage your horse and help curb vices, especially when stalled or on a decreased turnout schedule.

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Horse Health

What is Free Fecal Water Syndrome

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By Kyla Szemplinski, MS, UT TSU Shelby County Extension

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hen grooming or caring for your horse, have you noticed that its hindquarters appear dirtier than usual? Perhaps they remain stained no matter how frequently you bathe them. You might also observe that the stall walls or bedding seem excessively soiled. Your horse could be experiencing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS). This condition remains shrouded in mystery due to limited scientific research and a lack of understanding regarding its causes. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available that can help reduce or even eliminate the symptoms of FFWS. What is FFWS? FFWS is a condition in which horses produce both solid and liquid phases during defecation. Dr. Jennifer Windham with Full Circle Equine Veterinary Services in Olive Branch, Mississippi, says, “Horses affected with FFWS void feces in a solid phase and a water/liquid phase. It has previously been seen as a management issue in healthy horses. Studies comparing the microbiome of horses with FFWS to healthy, unaffected horses showed no substantial differences between the groups and FFWS has not been linked with infectious causes of diarrhea.” When a horse is affected with FFWS, the liquid phase of defecation can cause stains around the anus, hind legs and tail which can lead to skin irritation and inflammation.

FFWS can last up to days to even months and can change in severity over time.

What are FFWS Symptoms? FFWS symptoms are sometimes overlooked since some owners view FFWS as a cosmetic and maintenance issue. Common symptoms can include fecal matter soaking the anus, hind legs, and tail area, skin lesions and irritation requiring frequent washing, defecation discomfort, stall walls and bedding soaked with fecal water, and bloating. Dr. Jennifer says, “In severe cases, horses can experience dermatitis/scalding of the skin of the perianal region, weight loss, and decline in condition.”

What causes of FFWS? Unfortunately, there is limited research on FFWS but with the spotlight on FFWS, more research is in development. “Practitioners have reported underlying conditions that could potentially be associated with the syndrome that are important to keep on your radar. These include equine gastric ulceration, IBS/gut inflammation, sand accumulation in the gut, and/or a diet consisting of variations in hygiene and makeup. Other potential contributing factors that have been considered this syndrome, include horses that are of lower rank in the social hierarchy of the herd and horses in confined places in the winter causing anxiety” according to Dr. Jennifer Windham.

How to Treat and Manage of FFWS: To treat and manage FFWS, Dr. Jennifer recommends, “Changing or reducing the size of turnout groups, gradual changes in diet with input

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from your veterinarian, providing less bulk in the feed by feeding chaff, chopped hay, or hay pellets, adding omega-3 fatty acids or probiotics, reducing starch in the diet or other supplements that can aid in digestive health and balance.”

While not life threatening, FFWS can still become a serious issue if not management and treated accordingly. Always pay attention to your horse’s defecation patterns anytime there is a sudden change in their lifestyles such as change in diet or social hierarchy in turnout. Any questions about FFWS, please contact your horse’s veterinarian and/or your county’s Extension office.

Kyla Szemplinski, MS, is an Extension Agent I and 4-H Agricenter Youth Development for UT TSU Shelby County Extension. She serves Shelby County, Tennessee equine community, and can be contacted at the Shelby County office at 901-7521207 during normal business hours Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm CST. Inforgraphic by American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) https://aaep.org

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Behind the Business

California Wine Country to a Ridgetop in Nashville: An Equine Social Affair Paired with Wine

By Lauren Abbott | Photos courtesy of Laura Martin

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aura Martin’s deep-rooted love for horses and wine blossomed from her upbringing on a 400-acre cattle ranch in California’s picturesque wine country. As a rancher’s daughter, she spent her childhood riding her ranch horses and embracing the life of a true cowgirl, managing cattle alongside her father. Growing up in wine country uniquely intertwined her passions for both horses and wine.

Four years ago, Laura and her husband made the bold decision to relocate to Nashville, Tennessee. Within their first month in Nashville they received unexpected news: Laura was pregnant. This joyous revelation set her on a new journey toward motherhood.

“I knew I wanted to stay home and raise my daughter,” Laura shared, reflecting on her transition to Nashville. They were in the process of building their horse farm, located in Goodlettsville, a northern adjacent community to Nashville. Shortly after their horse barn was completed, she found a quiet moment one evening, grabbed a bottle of wine and invited her husband to join her. “Come on, let’s go to the barn and celebrate,” she suggested. This moment marked a celebration of their move, their new family of three, and the completion of their farm in middle Tennessee.

As they savored their wine in the barn, surrounded by the horses that had traveled cross-country with them, Laura marveled at the experience. It was this pivotal moment that inspired her to create M|2 Equine Social Nashville, a private charcuterie and wine tasting experience among horses.

Seeing something special in their new barn, Laura reflected on her past experiences at various wine tasting events and recognized that none had captured the charm of her barn. In Nashville, where the western lifestyle is celebrated through country music and popular television shows like Yellowstone and Heartland, the idea of opening their farm to private events and sharing the love of horses with others felt within reach.

With her husband’s encouragement to try it out—after all, the worst that could happen was that it wouldn’t work—Laura launched her first private tasting three years ago. Since then, her schedule has rarely had openings for last-minute parties, a testament to her success.

M|2 Equine Social has not only allowed Laura to build a thriving private event business, but it also provided her with cherished moments alongside her daughter, savoring the fleeting joys of childhood. This fall, Laura’s daughter began pre-kindergarten granting Laura more time to focus on her unique equine event business.

“I don’t have a staff, and I want to keep it that way,” Laura explained. “I personally pick the wines for each tasting and craft the charcuterie boards. Hiring staff could compromise the quality of the experience, which I strive to deliver to my guests.

I believe that handing over any part of this process would diminish the unique experience I can provide. I never want to sacrifice quality for revenue.”

Equine Social has attracted a diverse clientele, including bachelorette parties, couples seeking a memorable date night,

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Behind the Business

and both local residents and out-of-town visitors enjoying weekends in Nashville. “About 50% of my guests are local, while the other 50% are from out of town,” Laura stated.

Laura believes the presence of the horses is what makes the experience truly special for her clients. “I once hosted a private tasting for a family celebrating their 74-year-old mother. She spent her life with horses. When we opened the barn doors and she saw the horses, she began to cry.

She had given up horses in her later years, and just being around them rekindled precious memories. It was an emotional moment for all of us, and it felt incredibly special to create such a meaningful experience for her.”

M|2 Equine Social’s private wine tasting parties last an hour, during which Laura selects four wines for sampling.

She prepares exquisite charcuterie boards for her guests, and even the horses enjoy their own charcuterie boards filled with horse treats, carrots, and biscuits, allowing guests to interact with her horses. Laura notes that each of her horses has a distinct personality. They eagerly runs to the barn when she begins setting up for events. Whether they anticipate a bounty of treats or affectionate pats, this interaction allows Laura to share her love of horses and her equine lifestyle with both the local community and visitors from afar.

Before the tasting begins, Laura warmly introduces her horses to her guests. She shares essential horse etiquette for everyone to practice and highlights key behaviors to ob-

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serve, such as an eager nudge from one of her horses, that encourages guests to offer extra carrots. Laura prioritizes the well-being of her horses, ensuring that once treats are gone, they do not receive any more.

Her mission is to make Equine Social the highlight of a group’s trip or outing. “I love this life, and sharing horses and this lifestyle is such a blessing,” she says.

To learn more about M|2 Equine Social Nashville, visit www.equinesocialnash.com. If you’re in the Nashville area, consider reserving a private party to enjoy handpicked wines, custom charcuterie boards, and a cowgirl chic, Nashville experience centered around horses.

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Cover Story

The Yellowstone Effect: How a TV Show Reignited the Love of the American Cowboy and Why the Western Industry Should Embrace It

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Story by Sharlee Shumpert | Photography by Haley Johnson

rom Ariat and Wrangler t-shirts popping up in retail stores like Buckle to model Bella Hadid riding a cutting horse in New York City, there has been an observable surge of interest and support for the Western way of life over the last six years. Local rodeos have experienced an influx of spectators, horse-related social media content has garnered millions of views and followers, and cowboy fashion has exploded in popularity. One might wonder why such a spotlight has shone on the Western lifestyle in recent years, especially as America becomes more and more urbanized, but the rea-

son is actually quite straightforward: Taylor Sheridan’s TV show Yellowstone has sent a shockwave through popular culture, showcasing the Western industry in a positive light while keeping viewers hooked with its dramatic, compelling story.

The resulting tsunami of attention that the American cowboy is receiving may seem overwhelming or untrustworthy to some, but the Yellowstone effect has had an undeniable impact on the Western lifestyle, and with that impact comes an opportunity to show the world why cowboys and cowgirls are invaluable preservers of America’s wild spirit of freedom.

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Yellowstone is a drama series that first appeared in 2018.

It takes place in the rugged scenery of Montana and follows a ranching family named the Duttons as they try to protect their land. The incredibly viral show’s fifth and final season aired this past November, and in addition to the original series, Yellowstone has two completed prequels, as well as one prequel and two spinoffs in the works. While the show’s tumultuous characters are the heart of the series, the cowboy aesthetic they are immersed in has revolutionized the Western industry. A similar phenomenon occurred back in 1980 with the release of Urban Cowboy, an iconic movie starring John Travolta. Both Urban Cowboy and Yellowstone showed viewers a world they knew little about and made cowboys look cool and exciting, which, in turn, prompted them to investigate the Western lifestyle with an open mind. So many myths and misconceptions swirl around the industry simply because people are not familiar with how it truly works. Therefore, media that encourages people to get curious and take a real look at the worlds of rodeo, cutting, and reining should be welcomed by those who want a bright future for Western sports. As many new fans flock to the scene, the modern cowboy has both a great responsibility and a priceless opportunity to teach them about the Western way of life.

The truth is that cowboys, like everything else, do not live in a vacuum where change can be forever avoided. The idea that one has to be “born a cowboy” in order to “belong to the lifestyle” may sound chic, but it is not a good argument as to why the Yellowstone effect should not be embraced. Those that fear a wave of newcomers entering the industry often

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forget that the Western lifestyle has always been sustained by a steady flow of first-generation cowboys and cowgirls.

There are certainly families who have been involved in the Western lifestyle for decades or even centuries (such as the Duttons in Yellowstone), but there are also those like my parents, each of whom are first-generation rodeo contestants that have since raised their children within the realm of rodeo. WPRA barrel racing world champion Fallon Taylor and NFR team roper York Gill both come from non-cowboy families; it is not an uncommon thing for some of the best and brightest to start out as “newcomers” to the Western lifestyle. This is why those who respond to the Yellowstone effect should not be discriminated against, but rather welcomed and taught about the industry they admire.

Right now, people are more curious than ever before about cowboys and horses, and taking the time to be kind to them is a powerful tool for preserving Western heritage. When at competitions, contestants are often functioning as performers whether they realize it or not, and there is no way for them to know who may be watching in the stands. Small gestures such as waves, smiles, and occasionally allowing an excited fan to pet a horse go a long way toward creating a positive image of cowboys and cowgirls in the minds of audience members, some of whom may only get a single defining memory of the Western way of life. With this in mind, it is important for all of us in the industry to remem-

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ber that we are ambassadors for the lifestyle we love, and that recruitment is and always has been a necessary part of keeping it alive.

Yellowstone’s biggest contribution to the Western industry is undoubtedly the opportunity it gives us to tip our hats in greeting a new fanbase that could one day become part of the next generation of cowboys. The American cowboy is an iconic symbol of freedom, and its place in history has always been forged and maintained by all kinds of people from all walks of life. The Western lifestyle has a rich and interesting heritage that is forever exciting but never uniform, and there is no reason for that legacy to stop now. So wave to the child at their first rodeo, visit with the family at the gas station who loves your horse because “it looks like the one on Yellowstone,” and take a moment to answer a question or two online, because cowboys have the stage right now thanks to the Duttons, and people are watching us whether we welcome or resist them. If we use this opportunity well, it will strengthen the Western industry and bring awareness to our way of life, ensuring that the spirit of the American cowboy remains a powerful champion of freedom that anyone can see themselves in. Each day, let us open the door to the mountain ranges, the sprawling ranches, and the electric arenas that have captured the hearts of the public and say, “Come on in! The show’s about to begin.”

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People and Horses

St. Martin in the Saddle: Rebecca’s Rodeo Comeback

By Sharlee Shumpert

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St. Martin on Maverick Photo by Nikki Burns Photography

ebecca was used to feeling the wind in her hair, the sun on her face, and the rise and fall of a horse’s ribs against her leg. She was used to hearing the clink of the bridle, the creak of the saddle, and the booming voice of the announcer calling her name, and she was used to seeing horse ears swivel as she directed her equine partner into the bright arena lights. But in an instant, the sounds, sights, and feelings that were so familiar to Rebecca were stripped away, and her freedom was exchanged for hospital beds, unwelcoming fluorescent lights, and days of motionlessness. How does one cope with such a dramatic change? For Rebecca St. Mar-

tin, life has been anything but easy since her accident, and yet this cowgirl is clawing her way back into the saddle day by day.

Rebecca is from Louisiana, and she is a first-generation barrel racer who got her start in Western sports when she was nine years old. After competing at local barrel races for a while, she met her mentor Rita Shaw. Shaw assisted Rebecca extensively and helped her acquire her first competitive barrel horses, and she also hauled her student to high school rodeos after allowing Rebecca to move in with her when she was a teenager. St. Martin, under Shaw’s mentorship, went on

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to win the barrel racing titles for the Mississippi High School Rodeo Association in 2015 and 2016. Following her successful high school career, Rebecca took a hiatus from rodeo while in college, but she eventually returned to competition her senior year and received an NIRA scholarship to complete her master’s degree at the University of West Alabama. During her time at UWA, she won reserve champion for the Ozark region, and her horse, Checks, won Horse of the Year.

Rebecca has two main horses: Checks, registered as Happy to be Paid, and Maverick, registered as FantasiasFamousGuy. She bought Maverick, one of Shaw’s trainees, just after his futurity year, and according to St. Martin, the two of them have grown up together. Checks joined the team later; Rebecca says, “It was definitely a God-thing that Checks made his way into my life after trying a few horses that didn’t work out for various reasons.” When she was barred from riding them during her recovery, Rebecca cited her drive to get back on her beloved open horses as one of the things that kept her spirits up.

Back in July, St. Martin was involved in what she described as a “freak horse accident,” resulting in a fractured tibia and a shattered tibial plateau. She had screws, plates, and bone grafts installed in her leg and had to go non-weight bearing for nine weeks after her surgery. Because of this, Rebecca carefully chose a place to send her dear Checks and Maverick so she could focus on getting well. While she is now well on her way to completing her six-to-nine-month recovery, Rebecca says that at the beginning of her injury journey, she had to “basically forget about the horses and rodeo to mentally get through the first few weeks of lying down all day.”

As for Checks and Maverick, they ended up staying for a

brief time at the Shumperts’ house in Mississippi. This family had purchased one of Rebecca’s previous horses, and after seeing online that the horse she had sold them was out with an injury, St. Martin quickly offered to loan her open horses to the Shumpert girls while she recovered. Checks ended up being a great fit for one of the girls, Sheridan Shumpert, and the pair went on a short win streak together. Rebecca says that Checks was “made to be a little girl’s horse” and that watching him compete with Sheridan brought her joy and gave her something to look forward to.

In October, Rebecca had healed enough to ride again. Determined to get back in the arena, she brought Checks and Maverick home, and by the following weekend, she was sending Checks up the alleyway at a rodeo. She explains that riding Checks again was “like riding a bike,” and even though she still has a ways to go to fully recover, she says her knee is continually improving.

Since reclaiming the saddle, St. Martin says her main goal is to return to normalcy. She remains in physical therapy twice a week, and because she had to move back home following her accident, many of her plans for the year have been shifted and compromised. Despite this, Rebecca says her family and friends help her stay positive. She is gradually regaining her freedom, bravely taking on whatever challenges come her way so she can feel the joy of horseback riding once more. Surely, there are riders around the country and the world who understand what drives Rebecca each day to keep clipping the reins, putting her feet in the stirrups, and pointing her horse into the wild arena of life.

St. Martin with Checks Photo by Ty Ferrell Photography

Photo by Jeffrey Schwartz

St. Martin on Checks Photo by Ty Ferrell Photography

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People and Horses

The Voices of Rodeo:

Inside the World of Rodeo Announcers

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by Sharlee Shumpert

ust like any sport, rodeo needs a commentator to keep things moving smoothly. Whether it be a hometown rodeo or a big-time event broadcasted on the Cowboy Channel, someone needs to commentate on the happenings in the arena for the sake of both the spectators and the contestants.

Rodeo announcers fill this crucial role, guiding the competitors and entertaining the fans with their larger-than-life voices. Historically, the job of rodeo announcer has fallen to amateurs and professionals alike, from rodeo parents and siblings at junior rodeos to certified mainstays like famous announcer Bob Tallman. As rodeo grows as a sport, however, the number of professional rodeo announcers continues to increase, and so does appreciation for their indispensable craft. I had the privilege to interview four rodeo announcers for this article, and their stories paint a fascinating picture of what it is like to be a voice of rodeo.

Mack Ginn is a Mississippi native who found his way to the microphone in his thirties. He grew up on a soybean farm, and while his family did own around a hundred cows, they did not use horses to work them. Mack bought himself his first horse when he was thirty and soonhad his heart stolen by the sport of rodeo. When asked about his origins as an announcer, he says, “I literally fell in love with rodeo, and I wasn’t afraid to speak in front of people, so I thought, ‘You know, I think I

Case Wininger

can talk about this…’” In 2014, he attended a seminar in Fort Worth, Texas, hosted by announcer Chad Nicholson, and within that same year, Mack went on to announce five PCA rodeos and many local barrel races. Since then, he has announced a truckload of rodeos, including the Southeastern Professional Rodeo Association Finals, the National Little Britches Finals, the Wojo’s Circuit Finals, and the Mississippi High School Finals. Mack says his favorite rodeo he has ever announced is undoubtedly the Angola Prison Rodeo in Louisiana; this famous event has been going on since 1965. Mack announced it in both April and October of 2024, and he has already been asked to return in April 2025. When it comes to advice for aspiring rodeo announcers, Mack says to “find a mentor… find somebody that has been there and done that…”

Seth Roy was twenty when he first started announcing to help his mother run a local barrel racing association. By 2018, he had his own business as a rodeo announcer, and since then, he has announced at The American Rodeo seven times, received the 2021 Announcer of the Year title in the Louisiana Rodeo Cowboys Association, and announced the National Little Britches Finals. He has announced countless rodeos and barrel races as well as ropings, bull ridings, hog dog trial championships, and AQHA events; he says singling out his favorite event is impossible! When asked what advice he would give

Garrett Yerigan

28 | The Horse Review December 2024

to up-and-coming announcers, Seth says, “...be prepared to be patient… I would tell them to be good to people, not just people that can do things for their career, but all people. It costs nothing to be a good human.” Seth says that all he wants in life is to give the events he announces what they need, provide for his family, and honor God through it all.

Young Case Wininger is a thirteen-year-old rising star who has already announced several major barrel races. He says he has attended barrel races his entire life and has always adored announcing; his parents even have a video of him pretending to announce when he was just three years old! He announced his very first race at the Bethel Road Saddle Club in 2020 and cites announcers Pat Freels, Garrett Yerigan, Tucker Reece, Wesley Haley, Lenell Dean, and Allen Moorehead as his influences and mentors. Case’s first big break came in 2021 at the NBHA Tennessee State Show when he was nine, and in October of 2024, he announced the pee wee class at the prestigious Quarter Horse Congress; he says Todd Adair helped him land the job. Case’s success extends beyond the announcer’s stand as well—he is also an accomplished barrel racer who recently won the 2024 NBHA Youth World Championship. He says being a barrel racer himself helps him be a better announcer, and he says that in the future, he would love to announce events like The American Rodeo, NBHA Open and Youth World, the AQHA Congress Sweepstakes, and the Pink and Ruby Buckle barrel races. Case wants to thank everyone who has supported and mentored him, and he hopes to have a career as one of rodeo’s voices!

Garrett Yerigan, who has become one of rodeo’s leading announcers, first picked up the microphone when he was around six years old. He announced barrel races and steer wrestlings that his parents were attending, and from there he graduated to bigger and bigger events in what he describes as a “snowball effect.” Garrett has now been named PRCA Announcer of the Year twice in addition to being the 2019 IPRA Announcer

Mack Ginn

Photo by Jeffrey Schwartz

of the Year and the 2024 WPRA Announcer of the Year. He says his top five favorite events he has ever announced are the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, The Governor’s Cup Rodeo, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, The American Rodeo, and Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo. His advice to future announcers is: “Be yourself, work hard, and be nice to people. It’s a long road so you must be perseverant and put in time to hone the craft. It’s well worth the grind.”

When asked what they did to maintain their showy voices, all four announcers answered that staying hydrated was key.

They mentioned drinking water mixed with honey as well, and Mack Ginn says he schedules himself an appointment with an ENT specialist twice a year. As far as living arrangements while on the road, answers varied: Seth Roy describes himself as a “hotel hopper,” while Garrett Yerigan and Mack Ginn bring their living quarters trailers to most events. When it comes to sound equipment, Mack typically runs his own sound and music, while Seth provides a microphone, computer, and cabling. The events Garrett works at hire an audio company to supply sound equipment, but he says he did have to bring his own equipment early in his career. Across the board, it seems that most rodeo announcers do have to supply their own sound equipment, which consists of things like microphones, speakers, mixers, computers, cables, etc. They are also sometimes responsible for music. Case Wininger says that Garrett Yerigan downloaded his sports pro sound system for him, and he says that announcer Lenell Dean helps him find new songs for his playlists; he even reports that announcer Allen Moorehead gave him his first microphone! Such camaraderie within the industry certainly helps new announcers find their footing, ensuring that the next generation of rodeo announcers can rise up in this rapidly expanding profession. As more and more individuals find their way to the microphone, the future seems as bright as arena lights for the voices of rodeo.

Seth Roy

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Training Tips

Cross-Training across Various Riding Disciplines and Sports

by Alicia Johnson, RN, BSN

C

ross-training in multiple sports and equine disciplines involves diversifying workouts and movements to improve overall fitness and performance on the field or court and in the saddle too. It is a great way to increase muscular endurance, stamina, and riding position in the equestrian world. With cross-training, what were once thought to be discipline-specific riding skills are now reaching across equine disciplines, improving overall riding skills and producing talented, adaptable riders. Many young riders are cross-training across various sports and riding disciplines as well in hopes of becoming well-rounded equestrians and multi-sport athletes.

Competitive equine and gymnastics coach, Meredith Tipton, has many years of experience coaching young riders who are multi-sport athletes. With 25 years of equine coaching and 20 years of gymnastics coaching under her belt, she has seen the benefits of cross-training across multiple sports and riding first hand. Meredith acknowledges it is beneficial for young riders to try different sports and also different disciplines within the equine realm in the beginning to help decide which direction they want to go. However, once a young rider narrows down which sport or discipline he or she wants to go far in, the rider should dedicate the majority of the time to that specific sport.

In her experience as a coach, Meredith has seen this go

both ways. Students who determine which sport or discipline they want to excel in and focus on those specifically have the time needed to devote themselves. However, students who are spread thin across 4-5 sports each week have less time to spend in each activity. Meredith has seen horsemanship decline if riding is lower on the priority list and the horse is one who requires regular riding. In this case of weekly multiple sports and practices with limited time left to devote to riding, she recommends finding an equine partner who doesn’t require 4-5 days a week of regular riding to stay “sane.”

Meredith is also a believer in cross-training for equine athletes as well. The farm where she trains focuses mostly on eventing, so the kids do conditioning in the field, hill work, dressage work, and jumping regularly. To change things up, she and her students enjoy taking the horses out in the back field and go on long trots. “Changing the environment helps keep your horse entertained and helps keep the work fresh,” according to Meredith.

It is important to note, however, with the amount of work involved in cross-training for the equine athlete, more is not always better. Meredith says she discusses with her students the importance of not over jumping the horses. They do not jump to height each week. Instead, she says they may opt for “ more

30 | The Horse Review December 2024

Mia Duke and Camryn Kraski’s pony SBF Hilins McLaren. Photo courtesy of Heidi Duke

Mia Duke Competing in Hunter/ Jumpers. Photo courtesy of Heidi Duke

Mia Duke Competing in Barrels. Photo courtesy of Heidi Duke

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Mia Duke receiving her buckle awards.

Photo Courtesy of Heidi Duke

technical exercises at a lower height, pole exercises, small grid, etc. to create jumping and steering questions while keeping the wear and tear low for the horse.”

Meredith’s students that participate in Pony Club get to dabble in other horse sports and experience cross-training in other disciplines at clinics. For example, she had a student who recently traveled to Kentucky for championships and afterwards had the opportunity to take her dressage horse and participate in Mounted Games and Competitive Trail. “He’s a good allaround Quarter Horse, so he was brilliant in all of these things, and it made a really fun trip for my student,” Meredith states.

Cross-training in various equine disciplines creates stronger riders as well. From riding different kinds of horses to learning from trainers with experience in many backgrounds, cross-training produces well-rounded, versatile riders. For example, training in Saddleseat requires the rider to have a great amount of balance and core strength. Cross-training in Hunt Seat will help the rider develop more stability in riding through an emphasis on using the rider’s calf muscles and heels. Western Horsemanship can help the rider to learn how to stay connected with the horse with the entire leg, not just the calf, as a steering aid while riding with one hand. While every skill gleaned from different disciplines may not be applicable to others, there are several elements that can carry over, creating more balanced and stronger riding.

Young Rider, Mia Duke, is an excellent example of success through cross-training in different equine disciplines. At just nine years old, she is riding on the Hunter/Jumper horse show circuit while training and competing in barrel racing as well.

The skills and experiences she is learning in these very different

Mia Duke competing in the Barrels. Photo Courtesy of Heidi Duke

32 | The Horse Review December 2024

disciplines are translating between each other quite successfully.

Mia has won multiple championships on the Hunter/Jumper horse show circuit on her small pony Fairywood Tomboy, aka Nugget, including Classic Company Circuit Champion in Gulfport, Mississippi, in 2023. She qualified and competed at Pony Finals in Lexington, Kentucky, in 2022 and 2023. Mia has moved up in the ranks and speed on her horse, Reba, in the Western realm as well. From Pee Wee barrels, to Buckaroo, she is now competing in the Youth and the Open classes. This past summer she won Boyd Farms Buckaroo Champion Buckle and Donna Stampley Memorial 2D Champion Buckle. She will continue her training and plans to compete at the NBHA Youth Nationals in 2025.

According to her mom, Heidi, Mia’s training in Hunter/ Jumper has taught her to be precise and much more aware of her position and the effect it has on performance. Her extensive history of being coached by highly successful trainers in multiple disciplines has taught her to apply instruction when it is given and as it is needed. The barrel racing has taught Mia skills of applying adjustments at a much faster pace and brought out her fearless side she had a hard time finding in Hunter/Jumper.

In keeping with the theme of cross-training for equine athletes too, Mia has even crossed one of her barrel horses over into the jumper scene, with successful rounds and winning ribbons at the EXEL horse shows in Germantown, Tennessee.

Whether a rider is cross-training between sports and different types of riding or among various equine disciplines, cross-training can add invaluable skills to the equestrian’s riding toolbox that will transfer across disciplines and enhance riding.

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Mia Duke and barrel horse, Sashay, competing in the jumpers at EXEL. Photo Courtesy of Heidi Duke

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33

Greener Pastures

Introducing a New Horse to a New Pasture

By Lauren Abbott

W

elcoming a new horse to your barn represents an exciting milestone, providing an opportunity to forge new bonds and expand your equine community. However, introducing a horse to a new pasture involves more than simply opening the gate and hoping for the best. It requires an understanding of horses’ natural behaviors, managing health risks, and being mindful of herd dynamics.

Its important to have a organized plan to help with a smooth transition.

Understanding Herd Dynamics Horses are inherently social animals with a critical need for companionship. They communicate through a complex array of body signals, establishing a “pecking order” within their herd. This hierarchy helps maintain order but can also lead to aggression when a new horse is introduced.

When a new horse enters the pasture, it must identify its place within the existing social structure. Experienced horse owners

recognize that this process can present challenges for both the newcomer and the established herd. However, with patience and careful management, you can ease this transitional phase.

Kyla Szemplinski, MS, at UT TSU Shelby County Extension, emphasizes the importance of a gradual introduction.

“Once your horse has been cleared by a veterinarian, you may introduce the new horse to your herd. DO NOT simply place your new horse into a pasture with an established pecking order, as this could result in serious injuries. This introduction process will take time, but it is crucial for ensuring safety.”

Best Practices for a Smooth Transition: Quarantine First: Before introducing your new horse to the herd, it is essential to quarantine them. This precaution protects the current herd from any potential diseases or viruses that the newcomer might carry. “Biohazard management is a practice that MUST be taken seriously, even if the horse is up to date on health records. Ideally, you should keep the new horse quar-

34 | The Horse Review December 2024

antined for approximately two weeks,” advises Szemplinski.

Gradual Introduction: During the quarantine period, allow the new horse to observe the herd from a distance. Visual contact helps them become familiar with each other without direct interaction. Following the quarantine period gradually introduce the new horse to one or two of the more docile herd members in a controlled environment, such as a separate corral.

Monitor Interactions Closely: Once integration begins, closely monitor the interactions. Look for signs of aggression or excessive stress in the newcomer. Mild displays of dominance, such as pinned ears or mock biting, are normal. However, if these behaviors escalate, be prepared to intervene and separate the horses.

Provide Ample Resources: Ensure that there are sufficient resources, such as hay and water, to minimize competition and potential conflict. If your herd eats meals in the pasture then make multiple feeding and watering stations to help prevent bullying and ensure all horses have access to necessities.

Create a Safe Environment: Your pasture should be free of hazards that could cause injury during the introduction period.

Inspect fences, gates, and other structures to ensure they are secure and devoid of sharp edges or protrusions. Walk your pastures and look for holes. Be sure to fill them, as they can cause severe soft tissue injuries to legs, and can even cause broken legs if stepped in while running from aggressive herd members. Also, it is up to you, as a barn manager or property owner if you will mix mares and geldings. Mares have been known to be more aggressive, so if you feel you have two or more alpha horses then it might be wise to separate them to avoid injury. Also, do not mix Stallions into a herd.

Managing Health Risks Introducing a new horse can pose health risks to both the newcomer and the existing herd. Equine diseases can spread rapidly, particularly in close quarters. Here are strategies to

manage these risks: • Maintain Up-to-Date Vaccinations: Ensure that your new horse is current on vaccinations and deworming before introducing them to the herd.

• Regular Health Checks: Schedule veterinary check-ups before and after the quarantine period. A veterinarian can identify early signs of illness that may not be immediately apparent.

• Disease Monitoring: Remain vigilant for signs of illness in all horses, such as lethargy, nasal discharge, or coughing. Prompt action can prevent widespread disease.

The Homecoming With careful preparation and a thoughtful approach, introducing a new horse to a new pasture can be a rewarding experience. “With proper management and health considerations, introducing your horse can help ease the stress of this new environment, making the ‘homecoming’ feel more natural,” says Szemplinski.

This process goes beyond just physical space; it focuses on helping create a smooth transition for all horses in the herd. Integrating a new horse should be a mindful and careful process with it comes to pasture herd management, one of the top tools for property owners and barn managers. By applying effective management strategies, facilities can create an environment that optimizes the health and productivity of all horses, leading to a well-balanced herd and barn culture.

Remember, each horse is unique. While some may adapt quickly, others may require more time. Pay attention to your horses, trust your instincts, and do not hesitate to seek advice from equine professionals. Through intentional and mindful planning you will positively support horses during stressful transitional times, ensuring the health and happiness of the entire herd.

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The Holiday Giving Guide:

36 | The Horse Review December 2024

Giving Guide

Gifts and Giving for the Everyday Equestrian Curated by Lauren Abbott, Publisher

This Holiday Guide is a thoughtfully curated compilation for the Everyday Equestrian. It is designed to enhance the festive season for both horses and humans. This guide presents a perfect blend of practical and unique gift and donation ideas, ensuring you find something special for everyone.

From practical grooming kits for your equine companions to stylish apparel for horse enthusiasts, our selections aim to celebrate and strengthen the bond you share with your horses. Browse through to help spark ideas during the joyful holiday season.

Gifts for Equestrians:

Gifts for Women:

Left: Tall Riding Socks.

Left: Equestrian Print Long Cardigan

Featured: Dual Zone Equestrian Boot Socks by Kerrits | Price: $12.00

Waterproof Sneakers!

Featured: Groundwork Waterproof Sneaker By Kerrits | Price $109

Featured: EQ Bits Cardigan by EQL | Price: $89

Gifts for Men Ranchers Featured: Men’s One Pocket Button Down Shirt by King Ranch Saddle Shop | Price $115

Gifts for the Rancher:

Gifts for Female Ranchers

Featured: Freya X King Ranch Haven Hat by King Ranch Saddle Shop | $345

Featured: Women’s Denim Pearl Snap Shirt by King Ranch Saddle Shop | Price $95

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Unique Handmade Leather Gifts for Men and Women: Featuring Custom, Handmade Gifts by Lakeland Leatherworkds, Located in Lakeland, Tennessee.

Top: Molded leather trays $15 - $50, 20% OFF FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Top Left: One Piece Purse | Sale Price $70, Regular price $95 Bottom Left: The Hipster. Clip to belt loops, wear as a belt-pack, or attach strap and wear as a cross-body/shoulder bag.

Holiday sales price $50, Regular price $65.

Top Right: Bifold & Trifold Wallets Regular price $40-$100 Bottom Right: Cowboy Hat and Baseball Cap Car Holders. Sale Price $40

Ankle Boots: Featured: Women’s Muckster Lite EVA Ankle Boot by Muck Boot Company | Price: $60

Waterproof Tall Boots:

Women’s Chore Tall Boots:

Featured: Women’s Originals Tall Boot by Muck Boot Company | Price: $145.00

Featured: Women’s Originals Tall Boot by Muck Boot Company | Price: $135.00

Gifts for the Cowboy:

Gifts for the Cowgirl: Wrangler’s Lainey Wilson Collection Find it at Rustic Soul Fine Western Wear in Jackson, Tennessee

Kid’s Wrangler Collection. Find it at Rustic Soul Fine Western Wear in Jackson, Tennessee.

Wrangler’s Cody Johnson Collection Find it at Rustic Soul Fine Western Wear in Jackson, Tennessee.

38 | The Horse Review December 2024

Gifts for Your Horses and Barn Friends Right: Grooming Bags and Kits.

Featuring: Horse Grooming Barn Caddy by Kerrits | Price: $59

Gifts for Your Horses: Treats!

Left: Lucky 7 Horse Treats.

Gift Cards & Gift Baskets

10% of sales go towards Horse Rescue. | Price: $11

Hall’s Feed and Seed located in Collierville, Tennessee offers Gift Baskets for horses and chickens, as well as gift cards.

Gifts for Lasting Memories:

Photography Sessions with Family and Horses. Featured: Kindred Spirit Photography, West TN Equine Lifestyle Photographer. To schedule session or purchase a gift card contact: melanie@kindredspiritphoto.com

Halters!

Featured: Braided rope halther with leather nose and leadrope by Cashel | Price $76.99

Saddle Pads!

Featured: Blanket Top Performance Saddle Pad by Cashel | Price: $109.99

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40 | The Horse Review December 2024

Gifts for Book Lovers!

Gifts for the active equestrian:

Right: Arena Tracks

by Christian Baier Published by Trafalger Square Books | $26.95

ARIAT Women’s Tek Tight | Price: $59.97

Gifts for Young Equestrians:

You cannot go wrong with a Breyer Horse set. Featured: Traditional English Bundle| Price: $99.95

Women’s Outerwear: Featured: Ariat Women’s Ideal Down Jacket | Price: $139.95

Horse Outerwear

Men’s Outerwear:

Featured: WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Essential Standard Neck Medium/Lite Horse Blanket | Price: $135

Featured: Ariat Men’s Yellowstone Midnight Fair Quilted Shirt Jacket| Price: $119.95

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DONATE TO EQUESTRIAN NONPROFITS

Germantown Charity Horse Show

Contact

7745 Poplar Pike Germantown, TN 38138 (901) 754-0009 gchssince1948@gmail.com https://gchs.org

Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GermantownCharityHorseShow Instagram: @germantowncharity

Board of Directors

Dot Stagich, President Mary Livesay, Past President Amy Beth Dudley, Vice President Lynda S. Smith, Secretary Mallory Seeker, Treasurer At-Large Directors: Alyce Ann Chism, Ross Herrin, Jacob Kight, Marvin Toelupe, MaryLisa Wagner

Background

Founded in 1948, the Germantown Charity Horse Show (GCHS) is one of the oldest and largest multi-breed horse shows in the country.

It is also the longest-running sporting event in Shelby County, Tennessee. Expect to be amazed at the beautiful horses, skillful riders and fun crowds. You will see a variety of horses and riding styles - from hunters and jumpers to carriage driving and Gypsy Vanner horses, and from American Saddlebreds and Tennessee Walking Horses to sidesaddle and Paso Fino classes.

The GCHS is a U.S. Equestrian Federation Heritage Competition, giving it national recognition for its contribution to the community and to the sport. It is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is a Tennessee approved charitable organization.

Mission Statement

To produce an annual horse show and to promote equestrian activities, while raising funds to support charities benefiting education, children and family services in the Mid-South.

Vision for the Future

Preserve the equestrian history of Germantown while enhancing the positive impact of the annual GCHS and other events. Through the GCHS’s Show Grounds Improvements Initiative, we will ensure high safety standards for riders and horses and elevate the overall experience for spectators. Improvements will focus on Show Rings, Barns, and Paved Access Roadways.

Volunteer Opportunities

The success of the show relies on the dedication and hard work of many GCHS and community volunteers, and other resources.

The show also provides a framework for high school volunteers to work on assignments enabling them to gain valuable experience.

We need volunteers during the horse show week for ticket sales and various activities.

Throughout the year, volunteers may join in a variety of activities ranging from show grounds preparation to exhibitor hospitality.

Charity

Since its inception, the GCHS has a long history of charitable giving and is proud to support local charities focused on education, children and families.

From 1999 through 2023, the Germantown Charity Horse Show supported Kindred Place as its main charity, raising over $800,000 to further its mission. We are grateful for the impact this partnership has made and the important work Kindred Place continues.

GCHS expanded its charitable focus to a broader range of local charities in 2024 including: Germantown Education Foundation; art departments of Houston and Germantown High Schools; Memphis Oral School for the Deaf; SVRS (provides services for people with disabilities); and Kindred Place.

Giving Opportunities

Each year, the GCHS relies on sponsorships and donations to ensure the success of the show and to fulfill its mission. Sponsorships include: • Major Stakes Sponsors for Championship Events • Banner Sponsors • Class Sponsors • Jump Sponsors We welcome “in kind” donations, from tractors to maintain the competition rings to restaurant donations for hospitality events. All support is greatly appreciated and recognized.

This year, the GCHS has a special need for donors and partners for the Show Grounds Improvements Initiative.

To learn more about sponsorships, donations, volunteering, advertising, or membership, please visit GCHS.org and complete the Contact Us form. We would be delighted to connect with you!

Goals

Join us June 3-7, 2025 for the 76th annual Germantown Charity Horse Show! GCHS strives to set record levels of attendance and exhibitor participation in this unforgettable, family-friendly event!

This season, GCHS kicks-off work on its multi-phase Show Grounds Improvement Initiative.

Learn more about GCHS by scanning the QR code below.

SPONSORED CONTENT 42 | The Horse Review December 2024

76 Years

in the Heart of Germantown

Nonstop Action Spectator Fun Thrilling Majestic Unique Vendors Mid-South Tradition

GCHS Supporting local charities focused on education, children and families

76

Year

s

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Marketplace

Akin Equine BC_Layout 1 6/17/2022 10:45 AM Page 1

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Marketplace

BOARDING

Premier Horse Boarding in Fayette County: Full/pasture board. Retired horses are welcome. Private pastures, grained 2x daily w/senior feed & Bermuda hay. All weather outdoor arena w/lights. 50+acres of riding, lots of additional amenities.

Look us up on FB. Blues City Warmbloods Dana 901-3313500

EMPLOYMENT

Seeking an experienced intermediate/ advanced english or western working student or farm working to help out with horses in Eads, TN. This includes cleaning stalls, feeding, hay, turnout, grooming, etc.

Must be experienced horse handler. Will consider board on your own horse or supervised rides/ coaching/showing on one of our awesome farm horses if a good fit. Morning shifts available several days during the week. Resumes required for consideration. Please email: happymemphishorses@gmail.com.

Part- time Equine Advertising, Marketing and Social Media Coordinator Position Available. Job includes social media management, email newsletter preparation and sends, new business development and cold calling, presenting advertising campaigns to equine business owners and more. Flexible hours. Text or Call: 901-279-4634 to learn more.

Include your Business in our Equine Marketplace!

Email: labbott@thehorsereview.com

Boarding at beautiful WHITE OAK FARM: Located on 40 acres in northeast Shelby County at 10023 Rosemark Rd. Full Board $450/ month. Board includes stall cleaning/ shavings and morning/evening feedings.

Numerous amenities include large stalls with windows, stall fans, heated waterers, turnout pastures, lighted outdoor arena or inside barn riding, crosstie area with hot/cold wash rack, fly spray system, Bermuda hay grown and baled onsite. Gated facility with owners and farm manager living on property. Call Sammy 901-833-3075.

HORSE TRAINING

Training your horse, the correct & gentle way. Desensitizing & teaching respect on the ground; trust without fear. We mostly use the Buck Brannaman training methods. Exc. References. Grained 2 x day w/ Bermuda hay & private pastures. $800 Mo. Michael Garner 901-857-8060 Blues City Warmbloods on FB www.thehorsereview.com

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• Mullins Farm Supply Charleston MS • Hawkeye Feed Mill Coldwater MS • Todd’s Feed & Hardware Coldwater MS • Lowndes Farm Supply Columbus MS Illinois • Home Place Pastures Como MS • Hits Chicago Wayne IL • Tri County Como MS • Alcorn County Co-Op Corinth MS Kentucky Arkansas • Winterview Farm Flora MS • Stockdale’s Bowling Green KY • First Choice Kubota Brookland AR • Boots N More Florence MS • First Choice Kubota Calvert City KY • Dorothy E King Equine Pa• Cross Country Seeds Grenada MS • KY Lake Trailer Sales Calvert City KY villion Fayetteville AR • El-Kidd Western Wear Hamilton MS • State Line Ranch Supply Hazel KY • Oaklawn Resort_ Marketing De• Complete Home Store Hernando MS • Keeneland Gift Shop Lexington KY partment Hot Springs AR • Desoto Co. Co-Op Hernando MS • Fennell’s Horse Supplies Lexington KY • Univ of Ark Division of Ag Re• Tri County Farm Services Hernando MS • KBC Horse Supplies Lexington KY search Jonesboro AR • Magnolia Lighting Hernando MS • Arkansas Racing Division Little Rock AR • Kentucky Horse Park Of• Side Ally Gifts Hernando MS • The Equestrian Center Little Rock AR fice Lexington KY • Coffe Central Hernando MS • A-STATE EQUINE CEN• Inter. Museum Of The • Cooper Feed & FertilizHorse Lexington KY TER State University AR • The Hitching Post Tack • City Feed West Memphis AR er Holly Springs MS Shop Louisville KY • Delta Farm Products Wynne AR • Bi County Farm Sup• Darren Rogers Churchill Downs ply Holly Springs MS Racetrack Louisville KY Florida • Ware Farm Services Houston MS • First Choice Kubota Mayfield KY • Black Prong Resort Bronson FL • Boots N More Jackson MS • Louisville Equestrian Cen• Florida Horse Park Ocala FL • Edge Horse And Tack Mooreville MS • HITS Ocala Ocala FL • Tractor Supply New Albany MS ter Taylorsville KY • Exceptional Equestrian Ocala FL • New Albany Vet Clinic New Albany MS • The Farm House - World Eques• O C Leatherworks New Albany MS Mississippi • Equine Veterinary Associ• Mattox Feed Mill Aberdeen MS trian Center Ocala FL • Griffin Feed Baldwyn MS • Tack Shack of Ocala Inc. Ocala FL ates Olive Branch MS • Panola Co. Co-Op Batesville MS • Ocala Equine Hospital Ocala FL • Full Circle Equine Olive Branch MS • Latham’s Boots Batesville MS • World Equestrian Center Ocala FL • Frontier Western Store Olive Branch MS • Tractor Supply Batesville MS • Gold Coast Feed: Wellington FL • Olive Branch Co-op Olive Branch MS • Tractor Supply Booneville MS • Wellington Inter_ Equestri• North Grove Equestrian Park Oxford MS • Woods Farm Supply Byhalia MS • Tractor Supply Oxford MS an Village Wellington FL • Van’s Leather Work Byhalia MS • Oxford Farm And Ranch Oxford MS • Dover Saddlery Wellington FL • Blue Ribbon Riding Acad. Canton MS • North Grove Equestrian Park Oxford MS • Tack N Rider Wellington FL • Blue Ribbon Riding Academy Canton MS • Moore’s Feed Pontotoc MS

46 | The Horse Review December 2024

• Reeder Farm Supply Pontotoc MS • Ripley Feed Ripley MS • Scruggs Home & Garden Saltillo MS • Reed’s Metals Saltillo MS • Tractor Supply Senatobia MS • Tate Co. Co-Op Senatobia MS • Agri Farm & Ranch Shannon MS • Cavendar’s Boots Southaven MS • Tupelo Farm & Ranch Tupelo MS • Tractor Supply Co Tupelo MS • Tomlinson Farm & Building Supply Walnut MS • Clay Co. Co-Op West Point MS Tennessee • Ag & Nag Supply Adamsville TN • Tractor Supply Co. Arlington TN • Brunswick Feed Arlington TN • Ashland City Co-Op Ashland City TN • Ag Central Athens TN • Stewart Brothers Bartlett TN • Bedford Tack Bell Buckle TN • Circle E Guest Ranch Belvidere TN • Tractor Supply Bolivar TN • Stockdale’s Bolivar TN • Tractor Supply Co. Brentwood TN • Boot Barn Brentwood TN • Tractor Supply Brownsville TN • Benton Co. Co-Op Camden TN • Hickman Feed & Farm Centerville TN • Tractor Supply Co. Clarksville TN • Tractor Supply Co. College Grove TN • Bonnie’s Barnyard College Grove TN • Hall’s Feed & Seed Collierville TN • United Farm & Home Columbia TN • Agricenter Show Place Arena Cordova TN • Stockdale’s Covington TN • Covington Turf Supply Covington TN • Tractor Supply Company Covington TN • Bob’s Feed & Fertilizer Crossville TN • Tennessee Farriers Supply Cumberland Furnace TN • Decatur Farmers Co-Op Decaturville Tn • Gibson Co-Op Dyer TN • First Choice Kubota Dyersburg TN • Pinnington’s Feed Dyersburg TN • Tractor Supply Co. Dyersburg TN • Tennessee Tractor Dyersburg TN • First Choice Farm Eads TN • Humphrey’s Co-Op Erin TN • Tractor Supply Arena Franklin TN • Franklin Horse Supply Franklin TN

• Dover Saddlery Franklin TN • Brownland Farm Franklin TN • Tractor Supply Co. Franklin TN • Franklin Equine Services Franklin TN • Germantown Charity Horse Show Grounds Germantown TN • Saddles N Such Germantown TN • Gr Junction Caf Grand Junction TN • Bird Dog Museum Grand Junction TN • Gibson Co. Co-Op Greenfield TN • Tipton Farmers Co-Op Halls TN • Roane State Expo Center Harriman TN • First Farmers Co-Op Henderson TN • Tractor Supply Co. Henderson TN • Stockdale’s Hixson TN • Horse Stop Hohenwald TN • Lewis County Co-Op Hohenwald TN • Goodrich Arena Humboldt TN • Gibson Co-Op Humboldt TN • The Cowboy Store Huntingdon TN • Carrol Farmers Co-Op Huntingdon TN • Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch Hurricane Mills TN • R & J Feed Store Jackson TN • Tractor Supply Jackson TN • Rustic Soul Western Wear Jackson TN • Mid-South Farmers Co-Op Jackson TN • Reed’s Metals Jackson TN • My Animal Hospital Jackson TN • East Fork Stables Jamestown TN • Southeast Pack Trips Jamestown TN • Rim Riders Jamestown TN • Old Town Saddlery Jonesborough TN • Sonny Brooke Stables Knoxville TN • Agra-Feed Supply Knoxville TN • Penrose Farm Knoxville TN • Tractor Supply Knoxville TN • Tennessee Equine Hospital Lakeland TN • Fern At La Grange La Grange TN • Protrition La Vergne TN • Tennessee Farmers Cooperative La Vergne TN • First Farmers Co-Op Lexington TN • Tractor Supply Co. Lexington TN • Perry Co. Farmers Co-Op Linden TN • Weakley Farmers Co-Op Martin TN • Coyote Run Arena Mason TN • Mckenzie Feed & Grain McKenzie TN • Novel Memphis TN • Raleigh Feed Memphis TN • Jp Shelly And Son Middleton TN • Tractor Supply Milan TN • Tractor Supply Co Millington TN

• Miller Coliseum Murfreesboro TN • Rutherford Farmers CoOp Murfreesboro TN • Horseman’s Supply Murfreesboro TN • Walnut Trace Farm Nashville TN • Parnassus Books Nashville TN • Gibson Co-Op Newbern TN • Josh Quinn / CrossRoads Ranch Nolensville TN • Jamie’s Welding Oakland TN • Gateway Tire Oakland TN • Stockdale’s Oakland TN • Obion Farmers Coop Obion TN • Henry Co. Farmers Co-Op Paris TN • Ripley Farm Store Ripley TN • New Hope Saddles Ripley TN • Animal Care Hospital Ripley TN • First Choice Kubota Savannah TN • First Farmers Co-Op Savannah TN • Rogers Farm Supply Scotts Hill TN • Stockdale’s Selmer TN • Stockdal’s Selmer TN • Select Trailers Shelbyville TN • Somerville Farm Supply Somerville TN • Morris & Morris Somerville TN • Boondocks Somerville TN • Teague Store Somerville TN • Reed Bros. Feed & Seed South Fulton TN • Tractor Supply Co. Thompsons Station TN • Tennessee Equine Hospital Thompsons Station TN • Equine Performax-Jaeckle Center Thompsons Station TN • Gibson Co-Op Trenton TN • Tennessee Tractor Trenton TN • First Choice Kubota Union City TN • Obion Farmers Coop Union City TN • Blackberry Farms Walland TN • Humphreys Co. Co-Op Waverly TN • Waynes Farmers Co-Op Waynesboro TN • Rawhide Feed Whiteville TN • Backerman’s Whiteville TN Texas • Hildebrand Equine Complex College Station TX • Texas Rose Horse Park Tyler TX Virginia • Hits Commonwealth Park Culpeper VA

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48 | The Horse Review December 2024