HQ Magazine Issue 166b

Welcome!

It's great to have you with us for another edition of HQ Magazine. Again, this month, we haven't gone with our usual release date to allow us to capture all of the excitement that was the Toyota Easter Festival 2024.

It was a spectacular show with some stunning individual performances, and we highly recommend checking out Equestrian Live's livestream of the event on YouTube to see the thrilling Outdoor Grand Prix that marked the show's finale. Huge congratulations must go to Ronnie Healy on winning another big title, this time aboard Cornet's Mandarino. Ronnie is at the top of his game, and so far, he's the favourite in the office for claiming the Toyota Triple Crown title at the end of the year.

Outside of the current show excitement, this edition also sees us meet the team for the upcoming TriNations event, which will be held at the 334 World Cup Qualifier at Kyalami Park Club in May. We'll be attending

every minute of this show, and we look forward to bringing you the latest on how this impressive team of young athletes performs against stiff competition from Ireland and Portugal.

Other features in this edition include a deep dive into the prepurchase exam and what exactly it entails, as well as a discussion of tendon injuries and how best to prevent, treat, and rehabilitate them.

We hope you enjoy this edition, and we look forward to seeing you back here next month (this time on the 1st of May)!

CONTENTS

The Toyota SA Outdoor Grand Prix 2024

Leg 1 of the Toyota Triple Crown

The Outdoor Grand Prix Legend

Barry Taylor

2023 SASJ Awards

A night to remember

The SA Showjumping FEI CSIY Tri-Nations

The low-down

The Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship

A true test of rider skill

A Closer Look

At the Capital Stud May Auction Collection

2024 Badminton Horse Trials

On 8-12 May

Tendon injuries

Understanding and managing these devastating injuries

Navigating the Pre-Purchase Exam

A buyer's guide to assessing equine health

AskHQ

Your equestrian questions answered

Products We Love Shopping fun

LEG 1: TOYOTA EASTER FESTIVAL 23 MARCH - 1 APRIL 2024

LEG 2: TOYOTA SA ADULT CHAMPIONSHIPS 16-18 AUGUST 2024

LEG 3: TOYOTA SA DERBY 3-6 OCTOBER 2024

www.toyota.co.za

The 2024 Toyota Easter Festival proved to be an extravaganza, with exceptional equestrian sport in several disciplines, including equitation, dressage, showing, and showjumping, on display. Kyalami Park Club was converted into a red and white wonderland, with a packed shopping village, a kiddies' play area, and Toyota's Urban Trax.

LEG 1 OF THE TOYOTA TRIPLE CROWN TEXT:

THE TOYOTA SA OUTDOOR GRAND PRIX 2024

What Toyota has brought to the sport extends far beyond spectacular sponsorship; they have managed to foster an inclusive family environment which is in line with their ethos and have created newfound excitement around the sport encouraging spectators from far and wide, equestrian or not, to come and witness the talent on display.

THIS YEAR'S OUTDOOR GRAND PRIX

Once again, Anna-Marie Esslinger set a big and challenging track for the title class. Anna made use of the vast length and width of the Bob Charter arena, building several longrelated distances, which required accurate riding and responsive horses. The most challenging of these lines in the first round proved to be the Open water at number 4 on eight strides to a double at 5, jumping in over a vertical at 5a and out over a big wide oxer at 5b. While the wide oxer at 5b caught a few horses, most penalties came from the vertical at 5a, likely related to the open water jump beforehand.

DID YOU KNOW?

Of the 28 starting horses, only five were mares, seven were stallions, and the other 16 were geldings!

With 50% of the 28 starting horses having their first jump around the Outdoor Grand Prix, the lack of experience could occasionally be seen; however, three of the first timers did produce clears in the first round: Cornet's Mandarino, Moonlight van het Keizershof and Pilgrim. Four other combinations jumped clear in the first round, while five sat on four penalties. As penalties are carried

forward from the first round, most riders with eight penalties or more elected not to jump the second round as the odds were not in their favour to place with only seven placings on offer. Some of the riders, however, potentially missed out on the opportunity to pick up some of the lesser points that count towards the final Triple Crown, which were awarded for up to 10th place.

Fifteen combinations, starting in reverse order of merit, progressed to the second round over a new shortened course of eight jumps. What became evident after the first few riders was that a clear round would require some clever riding to avoid costly time penalties, as the time was very tight. With seven clears, the four faulters were likely chasing the higher-end placings and were therefore looking to jump clear in a quick time, which is exactly what Tamara Rueda and the always speedy Callaho Liantos did, coming home in 51.62 seconds as the fastest four faulter. Lisa Williams and Pilgrim were the first of the clear rounds to jump and immediately gave us our first double

clear! Ashlee Healy and Eldo had what turned out to be this round's bogey fence down, the oxer at number 4, as did Lara and Diamond Dundee. Ronnie produced a pictureperfect ride on the first of his clears Cornet's Mandarino ensuring a jumpoff. Bronwyn and Levubu jumped beautifully but unfortunately had four very costly time penalties, and Ronnie produced a second doubleclear on Gillian van Orshof. Kelly and Moonlight were last to go and, unfortunately, knocked number 1, which called for a quick change of plan, as Kelly sped up to secure a high 4-fault placing. She did just that, coming home a second off Tamara's time and securing herself fifth place overall.

FAST FACT

The youngest horse in the class was an eight year old, and the oldest is 17 years old, while the average age was 12.5 years old.

DID YOU KNOW?

Unlike most other competitions, riders with more than one horse do not have to nominate; each horse and rider combination will be treated as a unique combination and will earn points as such.

The jump-off had the crowd and everyone watching online on the edge of their seats! Lisa was the first to go on her 14-year-old Perigeux gelding Pilgrim, and she produced a quick clear in true Lisa style, coming home in 37.62s. This meant that the bonus money (R65,000) offered by Toyota for a winner on a triple clear was now in play! Two shots at beating Lisa's time surely would have given Ronnie a bit of a boost, and with an added bone to pick for

last year's near miss of the win, he was definitely going to be making the most of it. The 11-year-old gelding, Cornet's Mandarino, who has been out of the ring for some time, looked to be back in peak performance, and the pair pulled off an exceptional and quick clear in 35.85s, stealing the lead from Lisa! Ronnie brought Gillian van Orshof in to jump off for second place but retired after an early rail, saving his legs for another day and settling for 1st and 3rd.

We caught up with Ronnie after his win: "Special day, special horse! From buying him as a four-year-old in Germany and trying him once to winning… Well, he's won a few things, but the Outdoor Grand Prix would be his biggest win to date. I am sure there is a lot more to come from him, as he is only going to get better. He is definitely one of the best horses I have ridden, and it is such a privilege to ride a horse like him. I won the Outdoor Grand Prix a few years ago on Eldo, but I won that

in the Peter Minnie due to the rain that year, so it's not quite the same as winning it in the Bob Charter, and I felt I had some unfinished business with the Outdoor Grand Prix in the Bob Charter so to have won it yesterday…. Big tears, and the bonus from Toyota… It was amazing; an incredibly special experience."

Congratulations to all the riders. We hope the next two legs of the Triple Crown are just as exciting!

DID YOU KNOW?

Five Callaho's Lissabon progeny competed in this year's Outdoor GP.

AFTER THE FIRST LEG, THE POINTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

WHERE DO THINGS STAND WITH THE TOYOTA TRIPLE CROWN?

Every one of the 28 riders who rode in the Toyota 1.50m Outdoor Grand Prix class has added their name to the list of those in contention for the title. In order to remain in contention, each rider and horse combination will need to ride in the title classes at the Toyota SA Adult Showjumping Championships in August this year and also at the Toyota SA Derby in October.

THE OUTDOOR GRAND PRIX LEGEND

BARRY TAYLOR

The SA Adult Outdoor Grand Prix has been a fixture on the South African Showjumping calendar since 1975 and has been held every year except 1983 and 2020. In its history, a handful of riders have claimed the title three times, Mickey Louw, Gonda Beatrix, Ronnie Lawrence, and Nicole Horwood, but none have come close to Barry Taylor's incredible eight SA Outdoor Grand Prix wins.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEGAN WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSE AND RIDER

Barry's wins span from the first in 1985 to the most recent in 2011, and we certainly wouldn't bet that 2011 will be his last. He won these titles on seven different horses, four of which were Thoroughbreds: Powerforce (1985,1987), Thirty Something (1994), Danelaw (2006) and Sunday's Eagle (2002), with whom he also won SA Championships and the SA Derby. He also won on three Warmbloods: Gladiator (1996), GoldRush (2008) and Nabab Forever (2011).

PHOTO: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSE AND RIDER

You would, in fact, be hard-pressed to find a title in SA Showjumping that the legendary Barry Taylor has not won, as he has to his name:

• 1 President's Cup win

• 8 Outdoor Grand Prix wins

• 2 SA Adult Championship wins

• 4 SA Derby wins

• 3 Mini Derby wins

• 1 Indoor Grand Prix win

• 2 FEI World Cup SA League Series wins

• And he has received his Protea Showjumping Colours not only as a rider (1983) but also as a coach (2022).

Nabab Forever was an imported Belgian Warmblood gelding renowned for his success in Six Bar competitions and is the current South African Six Bar record holder, with Lorette Knowles-Taylor having cleared 2.05m in 2015 at the Nissan Winter Classic under the floodlights. Nabab Forever was 19 years young when he broke the existing record of 2m that he had set the previous year! He was by Nabab de Reve, a renowned producer of Six Bar horses, and out of a Forever x Fier de Lu dam.

PHOTO: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

BARRY HAD THIS TO SAY ABOUT HIS SUCCESS:

HQ: You have been the most successful SA Outdoor GP rider in history; what can you attribute this to, and what does it take to win the Outdoor GP?

Barry: I attribute this to some of the great horses I had, plus I think it was my lucky class. I always was going well and had the right horse when it came around on the calendar!

HQ: You've won on a variety of horses. Can you tell us about those horses? Were there any standout special ones?

Barry: Powerforce was the best horse I ever had in my life; he made my career. Thirty Something was a great horse with whom I went on to win Grand Prix in Europe and who we then sold to the Princess of Norway. Danelaw was Lorette's horse, which she let me ride for that show because I didn't have a horse.

PHOTO: MEGAN WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSE

Gladiator was the hardest horse I ever had to ride. Gerry du Toit (Alzu stud) sent him to me because he was 18hh and basically unrideable. Sunday's Eagle won all three Triple Crown events, but not in the same year. They were all great horses in their time.

Goldrush was an exceptional chestnut son of Galoubet A out of an Abdullah mare. The young stallion had incredible success with Shaun Neill, with two back-to-back SA Championship wins in 2007 and 2008 and won the FEI World Cup RSA League in 2007 and 2009. In fact, the trophy for the fifth leg of the FEI RSA World Cup Qualifier series is named after him!

PHOTO: AMY BLAIR

PHOTO: AMY BLAIR

PHOTO: AMY BLAIR

HORSE AND RIDER

HQ: In your opinion, which of the Triple Crown series competitions is the toughest to win, and what kind of horse do you need for each of the three competitions?

Barry: Each competition is unique, but the test of every top rider's skill is to win a Grand Prix. It tests your horse's scope, bravery, care, and the rider's ability, training, and overall horsemanship.

PHOTO: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

TEXT: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE

SASJ AWARDS

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

This past month saw the extravagant SA Showjumping Awards take place at the Indaba Conference Centre to celebrate 2023’s top showjumpers. Here are some of the year’s highlights:

VOTED AWARDS

While nearly all accolades are based on quantitative performance measures, two are qualitatively evaluated. These are the Open Riders ‘Rider of the Year’, who is awarded the Nabab Forever trophy, and the ‘Horse of the Year’, who is awarded the Campbell Trophy.

These two awards are relatively new, having commenced in 2015 and 2018, respectively, and are voted for by Open Riders a few months before the awards ceremony. This year’s Rider of the Year was, for the first time, awarded to Ronnie Healy. Ronnie had a super year, with a 1st and 2nd finish at the Stokkiesdraai World Cup Qualifier, a 2nd place in the SA Showjumping Championships and a very emotional Derby win aboard the late Ronnie Lawrence’s Gillian Van Orshof, which resulted in few dry eyes amongst the spectators.

Zandi Alcock & Callaho Lansink (a son of Lissabon)

HORSE AND RIDER

Given Ronnie’s success, it is unsurprising that the 16-year-old Gillian van Orshof was voted the rider’s ‘Horse of the Year’ alongside Bibisi. Ronnie Healy took over the ride on his long-time coach, mentor and friend Ronnie Lawrence’s Winningmood gelding at the beginning of 2023. Once they had taken the time to get to know each other, they had immense success, and after their Toyota Easter Festival

performance, it looks like this form is set to continue. Bibisi, ridden by Bronwyn Meredith Dos Santos, also had a dream year. The 13-year-old Calato Kama mare won the Midrand World Cup Qualifier and placed 4th in both Shongweni WCQs and the Maple Ridge WCQ, securing their Overall SA World Cup League Title. With an incredible clear round rate of over 70%, this ‘Horse of the Year’ title was well deserved!

Ronnie Healy & Gillian van Orshof

BREED AWARDS

BEST SIRE

A title that Callaho Warmblood Stud has dominated since 2017 is the ‘Best Sire’ of horses in the SASJ High Performance Rankings. Callaho For Joy, Con Coriano and Lissabon have all won this title in this period, and unsurprisingly, Lissabon won it again in 2023. Some of Lissabon’s progeny that excelled in the 140/150 classes last year include Calalho Lexington (Jeanne Korber), Callaho Liantos (Tamara Rueda), Callaho L’Amour (Tracey Carney), Callaho Luc du Ayenne (Carl Boonzaaier), Callaho Luther and Callaho Luca

Vella (Tegan Bruyns), Callaho Lorenzo (Laurence Mowatt), Callaho Laios (Alexandra Ric-Hansen), Callaho Landino (Alexandra Miszewski), Callaho Liberia (Helen Critics), Callaho Lucetto (Paige Goetsch), Callaho Lindor (Kiara Burn), Callaho Liberace (Danielle Evertse), Callaho Lansink (Zandi Alcock), Callaho Le Padre (Zdenek Muchna), Callaho

Libra (Lisa Rahman), Callaho Lennox (Angela Spencely), Callaho Lorado (Paul Garlicki), Diamonds Libby Rose (Renita de Beer) and Rivendell Lamborghini (Nicola Sime-Riley). It may be a while before we see this Trophy in other hands!

Divan Bosman

Kiara Burn

HORSE AND RIDER

Anro Bosman

Divan Bosman

Bronwyn Meredith Dos Santos & Bibisi

BEST THOROUGHBRED

The Okinawa Trophy is awarded annually to the Highest Ranked Thoroughbred in the SASJ HighPerformance Rankings. For six consecutive years, this was held by Bronwyn Dos Santos’ exceptional mare, Fountain of Love. Fountain of Love was ideally bred for her second career, as a daughter of Kahal, out

of an Elliodor x Captain’s Pride mare.

For the past few years, this Trophy has alternated between Tamar Gliksman’s speed queen, Outeniqua (whose genealogy also traces back to Mr Prospector), and Zandi Alcock’s Favour the Bold. In 2023, following a handful of Open wins, Favour the Bold, the Saddler’s Well’s grandson, stole the show.

Zandi Alcock & Favour the Bold

ZANDI ALCOCK ON WINNING THE BEST THOROUGHBRED AWARD WITH FAVOUR THE BOLD

In September 2017, Bold became my first Junior horse. I was 13 years old and definitely crazy to ride him. He was and STILL IS very playful (aka a bit of a psycho). He bucks, sometimes rears and does other kinds of moves that are yet to be named - one of his signature ones is that when we’ve finished a round, he ‘fist bumps’ the air! But he’s also got a very loving side to him which a lot of people don’t know about; he’s always nibbling at my hair and nuzzling my neck when I’m in the stable with him (sometimes he attempts to eat my ears) and he sometimes just rests his head on my shoulder.

Winning this award (for the second time now) and competing him in general in the Open classes is really special to me because we started in the 1m together and produced each other up to 1.30m and 1.35m. Most people would never want to ride a horse like him in their life, but to me, he always puts a smile on my face, makes me laugh and will always have a special place in my heart."

Zandi Alcock & Favour the Bold

TOP SA BORN AND BRED WARMBLOOD IN THE SASJ HIGHPERFORMANCE RANKINGS

For the third consecutive year, this was awarded to Callaho’s Lexington, ridden by Jeanne Korber. Lexington is a son of Lissabon out of Callaho Fiorella (For Joy x Raphael), who Jeanne also competed in the 1.50m classes. It will be interesting to see if the pair can hold onto this title for another year as more locally bred horses have moved up and are competing successfully in the 150 classes this year.

TOP NAMIBIAN BRED WARMBLOOD IN SASJ RANKINGS

This was awarded for the first time to Back on Track Sheldon, ridden by Jonathan Clark and owned by Linda Ellerine. Sheldon was bred by the Seeis stud in Namibia and is by one of the world’s best sires - Indoctro - who has sired several Olympic Showjumpers. His dam is by Conti (Contender) out of a Menotti dam. Conti is also the damsire of Kerry Reese’s 140-winning Seeis Le Champ!

Jeanne Korber & Callaho Lexington (son of Lissabon)

Nicole Sime RIley

Divan Bosman

Hannah Garton & PMH Pollyanna

Amy Michau & Go to Blue

HORSE AND RIDER

ADULT AWARDS

The 2023 Adult Showjumper of the Year came in as a three-way tie between Lisa Williams on Campbell, Bronwyn Dos Santos on Bibisi and Ronnie Healy on Gillian van Orshof. This award is based on points accumulated for each combination over the four SA title events: President’s Cup, SA Outdoor Grand Prix, SA Derby and SA Championships. The fact that these three combinations shared the title is evidence of their consistency throughout the season, as well as the standard of riding in South Africa!

Amy Michau & Go to Blue

HORSE AND RIDER

HORSE AND RIDER

2023

2023

2023

2023

U25 and YOUNG RIDERS

SASJ YR Showjumper of the Year

Amy Michau & Go To Blue

Honey Girl Trophy

SASJ YR High Performance Rankings

Thomas Van Rijckevorsel

SASJ YR Rankings

SASJ Rising Star U25 Youth Series

Divan Bosman

SASJ Youth Series Horse Head

2023 SASJ Rotoflo U25 Championship

Divan Bosman & Cornerstones Midgard Zhakiro

SASJ Glass Trophy

SASJ U25 Rankings High Performance Rankings

Hannah Garton

Thomas Van Rijckevorsel Trophy

Divan Bosman

JUNIOR AWARDS

Another rider who had an exceptional year in 2023 was Kiara Burn. Riding Erreplus Callaho Lindor, her partner since moving into the Junior ranks, she had a handful of wins, the most impressive being their Mini Derby victory. But what secured them the Chambourne Trophy, awarded to the SA Junior Showjumper of the Year, was their consistency in the four SA Title events: placing second in the Junior Outdoor GP and Junior SA Championships and third in the SA Junior Derby. Callaho Lindor is by Lissabon out of a Contender mare, Chocolat. This makes him a full brother to Tracey Carney’s ride, Callaho L’Amour, who finished third in last year’s SA Derby!

2023

2023

2023

2023

2023

2023

Hamza Minty

PONY RIDER AWARDS

The 2023 Pony Rider Showjumper of the Year went to Anele Ferreira and Tandi, who added their names to a list of riders who have become very successful Junior and Adult competitors, including, Ashlee Healy, Rechelle Kloek, Shannon Smith and Amy Michau!

PONY RIDERS

2023 SASJ Rising Star Pony Rider Series

2023 Pony Rider High Performance Rankings

2023 Pony Rider Showjumper of the Year

2023 Hollard SA Pony Rider Presidents Cup

2023 Toyota SA Pony Rider Outdoor Grand Prix

2023 SA Pony Rider SA Championship

2023 SA Pony Rider Derby

2023 Coach of the Top Ranked Pony Rider

HORSE AND RIDER

Alexis Rose McLaren

Anro Bosman

Anele Ferreira & Tandi

Ella Paulson Memorial Trophy

Somersby Trophy

Hausberger Nya Witza Minty

Logan Hoek & Cornerstones Hotshot Whisperer Trophy

Alexis Rose McLaren & Magic Merlin Marquis Trophy

Anele Ferreira & Tandi

Leeuw & Talbot Trophy

Anro Bosman & Cornerstones Mighty Warrior PR Derby Trophy

Anton Hoek

SASJ Pony Rider Coach Trophy

Anro Bosman

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to all the winners! Showjumping South Africa has a lot

Shannay Marais

Ray Korber

Amy Michau

TEXT: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE PHOTOGRAPHY: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

THE LOW-DOWN

For the first time in 17 years, South Africa will host an International Tri-Nations Team event, and countries from outside the African continent will be invited to compete. The two nations that will be sending Young Rider Teams to compete against our talented South African youngsters are Ireland and Portugal.

The show will take place during the Midrand World Cup Qualifier, which is hosted by Kyalami Park Club in Johannesburg from the 30th of April to the 4th of May 2024. The competition is set to feature a dedicated category of young riders, which includes riders between the ages of 16 and 21 (i.e., from the

beginning of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 16 until the end of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 21).

The Team event will take place on borrowed horses. These horses must be six years or older, competent, fit and have competed at 1.20m or higher. All riders selected for the Team must allow one of their horses to be used in the Team draw for the event. The remainder of horses will be loaned (for a fee, and with all expenses covered for the duration of the show) from around the country and selected by the National Federation based on their performance, rideability, size and soundness.

Giorgia Scribante

SA YOUNG RIDER TEAM SELECTION SELECTION CRITERIA

Beyond being in the required age range, riders must compete at 1.30m or higher to be eligible to compete in the Team. Riders were required to submit an expression of interest and compete at the three qualification events held this year: the 2024 334 Sporthorse Stud Grand Prix, the Tack n Togs President's Cup, and finally, the Toyota Easter Festival.

At these events, the selectors were closely observing the athletes' performance, their placings (not that

this would dictate the order of selection), their consistency, the quality of riding they displayed, and the technicality of the competitions and conditions (footing/weather, etc.) under which their performance was achieved. They also evaluated the athletes' ability to contribute to an effective team and how they performed under the pressure and stress of these events. The selectors then needed to use this information to determine each rider's ability to compete successfully at high-level international competitions on different horses.

PROVISIONAL TRI-NATIONS SCHEDULE

Tuesday the 30th of April 2024 –training session with drawn horses

• Each athlete will be given between 45 minutes minimum and 60 minutes maximum in total (including warm-up and cool-down) to ride the drawn horse.

• A training period will take place in the main arena with a course consisting of eight obstacles including a combination. Each athlete is permitted a maximum of 90 seconds per horse in this phase.

Wednesday 1st May 2024

– Welcome A2 Competition

Thursday 2nd May 2024

– Competition in Two Phases

Friday the 3rd of May 2024

– Rest Day

Saturday 4th May 2024

– Young Rider Tri-Nations Team Competition - FEI CSIY

• The Competition takes place over two rounds, over the same course and is judged under Table A, with both rounds against the clock.  HORSE

Thomas van Rijckevorsel

Following the Easter Festival, a 'Top 8' was published, and those riders attended a training day with the selectors at which they were required to ride two randomly drawn horses over a course of eight jumps. A day later, following a final meeting with the Team Selectors, Lisa Williams, Tracey Carney and Brendan McNevin, the following Team was announced:

Ashlee Taylor (Coach: Barry and Lorette Taylor)

Giorgia Scribante (Coach: Grant Langley)

Hamza Minty (Coach: Chad Cunningham)

Thomas van Rijckevorsel (Coach: Dominey Alexander)

Reserve: Janine Coetzee (Coach: Charley Crockart)

Ashlee Taylor

DID YOU KNOW?

Three of the four riders selected for the Team have either won or been runners-up in the Philip Smith Equitation Championships!

Hamza Minty – 2024 Reserve Champion

Ashlee Taylor – 2023 Champion

Thomas van Riijckevorsel –2021 Reserve Champion

Holly Smith, Jason Slade, and Victoria Greyvensteyn also made the Top 8 Shortlist, while several other highly successful Young Riders from across South Africa made the

longlist. This highlights the incredible talent on display in South Africa. If this is the quality of our young riders, we are certainly in for many years of top adult competition.

Hamza Minty

MEET THE CHEF D’EQUIPE

HQ had a quick chat with Brendan McNevin, one of the selectors and the Team's Chef d'Equipe following the announcement. This is what he had to say:

HQ: What do you think of the standard of riders put forward for selection, and your final Team?

Brendan: We looked at the riders over three shows. Obviously, some riders have more horses than others, so they have more bites at the cherry.

On the whole, it is an unbelievably strong set of riders. We put them through their paces in more ways than one, and it sounds like we needed to. We are going to have really strong competition. I believe the Irish Team are a bunch of Nations Cup Riders, so it's obviously our job to ensure we have put the best Team forward for South Africa. But overall, the standard of riders we saw exceeded my expectations, so that's a good thing!

HQ: What were you looking for as a selector and as the group of selectors? What factors did you consider?

Brendan: Basically, what we looked

for was versatile riding because we are obviously on drawn horses, and versatility comes from riding multiple horses. When you ride blood horses and then cold horses, you learn which way each reacts, and you can adapt to what works best for the type of horse you are trying to ride. So, versatility was definitely one of the attributes we looked at. We also need people who will be able to fight when the chips are down; for example, if you have number one down, you need to be able to keep it at that. You can't have people who will let the occasion get to them, and they need to be able to handle pressure. Riding for a team under pressure is quite tough. I often see it in the interprovincials; people make silly mistakes, and this competition is at a whole new level. At the national level, jumping in your green jacket with the South African flag on there is a whole new ball game. You have to be able to absorb that pressure. It's also why we were potentially after youth who had a little bit of experience, and two of these riders have had national experience riding on borrowed horses. They also need to be comfortable riding different horses because that is the name of the game on Nations Cup day!

HQ: How is the Team now preparing?

Brendan: Regarding the preparation, we made our final selection here at Kumusha, where we went from eight to four riders. I thought that was part of the preparation, to be honest with you, because each of them got to ride two different horses over two different rounds at 1.25m, so it was quite interesting to see how they handled it between horse and rider. It's tough because it is a National Team, so two of our riders are from Natal, so we are going to try and do as much Team stuff as we can close to the time. There is a full itinerary for all the Teams to adhere to, but we will try to do some teambuilding amongst ourselves, as that is always crucial. They all must realise that this is a team effort and no longer an individual sport, so learning to work and function as a team is essential in order to win as a team!

HQ: As a coach and their Chef d'Equipe, what do you think is going to be the toughest part of the competition for the kids and how are you going to support them in that?

Brendan: I suppose as I get older and greyer and have more experience, I learn more about what is involved. In China, I went over with a team of boys at the top of the

game in the Junior ranks. We jumped in the first round of the Nations Cup and finished on top. It was an unbelievable feeling, and then, in the second round, it went pear-shaped. We had three down on the first horse and two down on the second horse and went from first to fourth. It was very interesting to watch those boys who had been flying so high, fall so far and so low. They're all quite tall boys in terms of stature, and they looked small by the end of the competition. I took note of that and tried to talk them through it, but it was tough at the time. Seeing the amount of pressure built through a Nations Cup is interesting. You are not only riding for yourself; you're riding for the Team. It's a whole different dynamic of our sport. So I think being able to handle the pressure and not get too swept away in the day when you're representing your country and national anthems get played, etc, is hard. This means big match temperament is needed, and that's hard for all of us when the pressure is on.

As for me, I will support them as much as I can. These kids don't need to be trained; I'm not out there to change anyone's style. So, my role is to keep them in the game mentally and obviously to have some fun.

HQ: What are you most excited about with regard to the competition?

Brendan: The whole event is so exciting for South African showjumping. When we look at the calibre of riders coming, it's important to get good horses. These kids coming from Ireland are all 1.45m Nations Cup Riders. They are at the top of their game. They have jumped multiple Nations Cups and are in their teens! We have invited real riders, and that is going to create a very exciting competition.

In the greater scheme of things, inviting this calibre of rider here and having an exciting Nations Cup will hopefully open doors for us to get invited abroad and get our Team to the next level. It would need to be on borrowed horses, but that makes it feasible for us, as opposed to having to take our own horses over there.

Personally, anytime you get to represent your country doing anything at any level, when you get to put on the green blazer, you realise why you do this. You know why you stand in the sun for hours on end, trying to explain the ethics and techniques of this sport. I take pride in it, and I

enjoy giving back to the sport, so it's an important thing for me.

Having said all this, I need to give a big shout-out to everyone involved. Firstly, Kate Launder has been incredible, and this would not be possible without people like her. Then, my fellow selectors Lisa and Tracey and I spent hours collecting data, going through spreadsheets, and looking at percentages of clear rounds and percentages of placings and wins. It was really tough getting these kids down from 32 to the top eight to the top four, so thank you Lisa and Tracey! Barry Taylor has also been driving this whole thing. He has jumped multiple Nations Cups for his own country, and he knows how special it is. It is exciting to have someone like Barry driving this and using his overseas contacts. He wants to give back as he remembers how exciting it is to represent his country. Huge thanks to everyone involved!

Oh, and of course, I'm excited about medals on Championship Day. That would be amazing… I don't want to add any pressure, but do I think we have a gold medal team? Absolutely!

MEET THE TEAM (WELL, THE GIRLS!)

We had a quick chat with the girls who made the Team:

Ashlee Taylor: It feels like a privilege to have been selected for this Team out of such a big group of amazing young riders. I don't think I felt much pressure about the selection shows because it was just a normal show to me, but of course, when it came to the training day, it was a little bit more pressure knowing that the selectors were watching us!

I think I'm most excited to meet new people from different countries,

to ride in such a big competition among teammates, and, of course, to represent my country. I would say I am most nervous about doing well in the competition and not letting my teammates down.

I think having done the Philip Smith Equitation Championships will definitely help me to ride under pressure because we had to ride unknown horses in a very prestigious competition. Having said that, I don't think I can control the nerves that I will feel since nerves always come when you are under pressure and when it counts the most!

Giorgia Scribante

Giorgia Scribante: This is such an incredible opportunity, and I will be forever grateful to everyone who has helped play a role in getting me to where I am today - especially my incredible horses, as without them, this would not have been possible. Coming into an event such as the Tri-Nations Cup, I feel a bit nervous as I will be competing against really strong and talented riders, and I hope to do my absolute best for

South Africa. However, I am super excited that I have been given this opportunity to ride for South Africa. I cannot wait for the competition, and I am really looking forward to riding alongside the rest of my Team!

FINAL THOUGHTS

We wish our young rider team all the best! We'll certainly be there to cheer them on at the end of this month.

Hamza Minty

THE PHILIP SMITH MEMORIAL

EQUITATION CHAMPIONSHIP

A TRUE TEST OF RIDER SKILL

One of the most exciting, unique and potentially underrated annual equestrian events on the South African calendar took place this past weekend at the Toyota Easter Festival: the Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship.

The PSM Equitation Championship has a rich history, dating back to 1971, and an equally impressive list of past winners to go alongside it, including the likes of Jonathan Clark and Andrea Harrison. Although

the format of the competition has changed twice from its original, it is still a competition that tests not only the Juniors' riding ability on the flat and jumping but also their versatility and capacity to handle an immense amount of pressure and stress – all elements of creating a top rider for the future. It is, therefore, unsurprising that three of the four riders selected for the CSIY TriNations Cup are not only Philip Smith Finalists but either won or were reserve champions in the event!

PHOTOGRAPHY: MERLYNN TRICHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

DID YOU KNOW?

Equitation is focused on the skills of the rider; therefore, you do not have to compete on the same horse you rode in the qualifying event.

HOW THE EVENT RUNS

The top four placed riders from the South African Youth Championship Equitation Open Class the previous year are invited to compete in the Philip Smith Memorial (PSM) Championships. If a rider cannot accept the invitation, their invite passes on to the next highest-placed rider. Once all riders have accepted, they are presented with that year's 'flatwork' test.

FLATWORK PHASE

The flatwork test is open to changes, and this year, one of the flatwork judges, Marianne Conlyn, slightly adjusted the test. We are not allowed to disclose the entire test, but we can tell you that it included dressage elements that you would find in a Medium Dressage Test, so these riders needed to be highly competent. This year's flatwork test also included one-handed work, no-stirrup work, canter loops to the centre line, leg yield to the centre line and back, ten-metre canter circles, and even a flying change. Riders are also evaluated on their seat, use of aids, and accuracy, amongst other things.

Before the flatwork event, the riders are drawn to determine what order they will ride in. Each rider then proceeds to complete the test (without a caller) on the four horses. The welfare of the horse is paramount, so warm-up times are strictly controlled and restricted, and each horse is given a break to recover in both the flatwork and jumping phases.

The flatwork phase has three judges, this year being top-level dressage coach and judge Marianne Conlyn, showing expert Gregory Goss, and top dressage rider Vay Snyman. Each test is worth 200 points so with three judges and four tests per rider, a maximum of 2400 points could be achieved for the first phase.

This year, the judges shared that they had judged quite broadly. They gave good marks where they were due, with two judges giving a few 9s and one giving some 10s, but also gave lower scores where movements were not executed appropriately.

Overall, the judges were very impressed with the standard of riding, and not one judge could say for sure which of the four was their top rider based on points awarded! They felt that "this was the

strongest group of PSM contenders they have ever seen". They also added that the riding was of such a good standard that they would happily give all the riders a job work riding for themselves! Interestingly, our flatwork judges all felt that, in general, the riders rode the other horses better than their own horse, and the ones that took more risks, rather than playing it safe, reaped the benefits. (Take note, future contenders!)

With the PSM the scores after the flatwork phase are not released. The pros and cons of this could be argued; nonetheless, this leaves the riders, as well as their families and coaches (and this year, the judges), in suspense from Thursday lunchtime until Saturday afternoon.

Hamza Minty

Daniel Beddow

Katie Franck

Juliana Haden-Smith

JUMPING PHASE

The jumping phase is held on the Saturday in the Bob Charter arena and in reverse order to the flatwork phase. Anna-Marie Esslinger was both course designer and judge. The rules of the PSM state that the riders must begin with a grid

of riders to ensure the distances were perfect, and it paid off as the grid rode very well. A few of the riders struggled to get their stirrups back in time for number one but persevered, as in the case of Daniel, who, on one horse, only recovered his stirrups after number

Hamza Minty

and five for a refusal. If the rider is eliminated by taking the wrong course, having three refusals or having a fall, they receive 0 points for the round but are not eliminated from the whole competition.

of 4800) separating 1st and 2nd! But in the end, the verdict was in, and for the first time since 2012, and only the second time in the history of the PSM, a male rider won the title!

Daniel Beddow Katie Franck

DID YOU KNOW?

The initial four riders that had qualified were from four provinces. However, the Limpopo rider was unable to attend, so reserve rider Juliana took his place. This is surely a testament to the quality of riders found across the entire country!

4th - Juliana Haden-Smith: Coached by Joanne Van Achterberg and Kelly

Slater (Gauteng)

3rd - Katie Franck: Coached by Joanne Van Achterberg and Kelly

Slater (Gauteng)

2nd - Hamza Minty: Coached by Chad Cunningham (KZN)

1st - Daniel Beddow: Coached by Jess Fourie (Western Cape)

Farnham Riding School is based in the heart of horse country. We cater for everyone, of any age and any level of experience. We teach all aspects of horse riding, including essential theory.

WE OFFER:

Competitive tuition for novice through to open riders

A selection of safe school horses

Livery for riders with their own horses

Top quality tuition from qualified instructors

THE WINNER

HQ: How does it feel to have won the PSM?

Daniel: It has been a dream of mine for a long time to qualify for the Phillip Smith, so it feels surreal to have actually won it.

HQ: How long have you been riding and doing equitation for?

Daniel: I have been riding for eight years and competing in equitation for six years. My very first equitation show was at PE Champs in 2018, and since then, I have slowly worked my way to the Phillip Smith. All of this was only made possible by my amazing coach, Jess Fourie.

HQ: Is there anything you would have done differently if you had the chance?

Daniel: If I could go back and do it again, I would've taken more time to be in the moment as well as to have been more precise with my distances in the jumping phase.

HQ: Do you have any advice for future riders competing in the PSM?

Daniel: My advice to any future riders is to take your time and enjoy every moment because before you know it, it's all over. It's very important to be able to put any mistakes behind you and move on because you won't know how many points each rider has until the end.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations, Daniel, Hamza, Katie and Juliana. We were so impressed to see you all in action!

A CLOSER LOOK

AT THE CAPITAL STUD MAY AUCTION COLLECTION

For the first time this year, Capital Stud will be hosting not one but two sporthorse auctions. The first of these will be held on the 11th of May in their Skeerpoort venue, and, as is now tradition for Capital, the Auction will take place both live and online to accommodate all bidders. Over the past few years, this hybrid format has proved extremely popular, with many enjoying the atmosphere and bidding live and some preferring the privacy of bidding anonymously from wherever they may be in the world.

HQ Magazine was given the opportunity to meet the 2024 May Capital Stud Sporthorse Collection, and we were blown away by the quality on offer in this talented group. Of course, it is well known that Henning Pretorius believes in breeding with only the world’s best bloodlines; the real magic occurs, however, in how he combines these proven producers and then raises the youngsters at his base in Summerhill Equestrian. Both his eye for a worldclass showjumper and his ability to produce a young horse for the top of the sport are evidenced multiple times over in this Collection.

Buying a Capital Stud youngster is an investment for the future; it is an opportunity for South Africans to purchase horses here of a quality and ability only matched by those in Europe.

Here, we profile a selection of our favourites, but we highly recommend visiting Capital Stud in Skeerpoort to meet all twenty horses and try them out for yourself. The future of showjumping has never looked brighter.

CAPITAL KIRONA

CAPITAL KRONOS X RENDEMENT X HEARTBREAKER

04.01.2016 | Mare | Bay | SAW | 165cm

Electric mare by Kronos!

The spitting image of her sire, this gorgeous looking mare has a fantastic, light footed canter which turns into the most amazing jump. Forward going and intelligent, Kirona approaches each fence with the ultimate care.

Scope:

Amateur:

Technique:

Professional:

Capital Kirona is one of three mares on auction in May with Heartbreaker in her damline, courtesy of her granddam Sweetheart Van De Vaelenberg, who is herself by Heartbreaker. >> CLICK HERE TO SEE

CAPITAL KIRONA’S FULL PEDIGREE

CAPITAL’S CARENOS Z

CARRERA VDL X CRISTO X LANSING

29.05.2018 | Gelding | Bay | Zangershiede | 167cm

Scopey, sensitive and set for the top

With Carrera VDL as his sire, there is no doubt that Capital’s Carenos Z will go far. With successful Olympic offspring as his siblings, greatness runs in his blood. He shares the same scope as his father, and has the potential to clean up in the highest levels of showjumping.

Scope:

Amateur:

Technique:

Professional:

Capital’s Carenos Z is by Carrera VDL, who jumped in the 1.60m classes with Jur Vrieling. Impressively, he has produced 18 approved sons and has five offspring jumping in the 1.60m classes. >> CLICK HERE TO SEE CAPITAL’S CARENOS Z’S FULL PEDIGREE

LOT 10

CAPITAL LINDEN

CAPITAL LEVUBU X CASSINI II X DARCO

16.10.2018 | Gelding | Grey | SAW | 177cm

He’ll give you a ticket to the big time

Capital Linden gives each jump 110% and always brings his A game. A son of Levubu, and sharing a dam sire with his father, this horse is bred to perform, and perform he will!

Scope: Technique:

Amateur: Professional:

Capital Linden also has a very impressive damline. His granddam, Beblesse, is the dam of both Capital Night Star and Capital Magic Boy. >> CLICK HERE TO SEE CAPITAL LINDEN’S FULL PEDIGREE

CAPITAL CHALISSA

CAPITAL CONLANC X CAPITAL ULIOR VAN HET WUITENSHOF X HEARTBREAKER

15.11.2018 | Mare | Bay | SAW | 172cm

Scope, scope and more scope

A horse of this quality is hard to come by. Breeding Capital Conlanc to a Capital Ulior van het Wuitenshof mare was a stroke of pure genius, and Capital Chalissa shows just why ... With her scopey jump, confidence and ground-covering paces, this mare is sure to go far.

Scope: Technique:

Amateur: Professional:

Capital Chalissa’s dam is the half sister of Capital Kirona’s dam, Capital Richelle. Both these mares’ dams are out of Heartbreaker mare, Sweetheart Van De Vaelenberg. >> CLICK HERE TO SEE CAPITAL CHALISSA’S FULL PEDIGREE

CAPITAL MON’AMI

CAPITAL MY FRIEND X

CAPITAL SHIRAZ X RENDEMENT

23.12.2018 | Mare | Bay | SAW | 159cm

Brave and super scopey

Capital Mon’Ami has certainly been stamped by her sire, Capital My Friend. With her flashy looks and gorgeous markings, she could be mistaken for a show horse, and yet she was definitely born to jump. With this mare, the sky is the limit.

Scope:

Amateur:

Technique:

Professional:

Capital Mon’Ami’s pedigree is outstanding, not only featuring the great Nabab De Reve but her damine also features the Heartbreaker mare, Sweetheart Van De Vaelenberg. >> CLICK HERE TO SEE

CAPITAL MON’AMI’S FULL PEDIGREE

KEY INFO

TRY-OUTS: 28TH OF MARCH UNTIL THE 5TH OF MAY. As always, the well-being of the Capital Stud horses comes first, and as such the team are limiting the number of try-out sessions available and maintaining the horses on individual schedules, with rest days. To book your try-out date contact: Kim at training@capitalstud.com or phone Capital on 079 570 5734

TICKETS FOR THE AUCTION CAN BE BOOKED HERE:

>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SEAT

For all those wishing to bid, registration information will be made available in the coming weeks.

FINAL THOUGHTS

After meeting the young horses and seeing them in action, the HQ advice is quite clear;

ON 8-12 MAY

With a new headline sponsor, and an increase in prize money, this year’s event promises to be better than ever.

This year marks

NEW TITLE SPONSOR IN 2024

The event runs under the directorship of Jane Tuckwell, who has worked at Badminton in

The show has

90 entries

FROM 11 NATIONS INCLUDING 19 FIRST TIMERS

With many of the crowds favourite riders including Ros Canter, William Fox-Pitt, Piggy March and the USA’s Boyd Martin amongst the entries it is sure to be a true 5* competition with the world’s best riders going head-to-head to take the prestigious title.

The event features

Seven riders WHO HAVE WON THE EVENT PREVIOUSLY

Yet, it features no horses who have won Badminton previously, with many top horses being ‘saved’ for the Paris Olympics.

Prize

Equiratings have compiled some serious stats about the show to pick out two favourites for the win:

Piggy March and Brookfield Innocent have a 19% chance of victory, having won three CCI4* events together, and coming second at Pau 2020.

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI have a 16% chance of victory. Their last win together was a Pau 2023 victory. If Ros were to win she would be the first rider to win back-to-back Badminton competitions since 2002/2003.

money

increases this year by

12% THE PRIZE MONEY FUND FOR 2024 RISES TO £425,000

The winner will take home £117,600 with a series of commensurate increases for all other prize money.

TENDON INJURIES

UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING THESE DEVASTATING INJURIES

Tendon injuries happen in one of two ways: sudden tears or ruptures from a single overloading event (an injury) or chronic strains from overuse. The former are usually recognised immediately after an athletic episode and usually have the hallmarks of heat, pain when touched, and obvious swelling. On the other hand, the latter tends to

result in low-grade chronic lameness that can be difficult to diagnose.

The most commonly injured tendons and ligaments in non-racing horses are the suspensory ligament, the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), the check ligament and the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT).

CAUSE OF TENDON INJURIES

There is little information about specific risk factors for tendon injury; however, training regimen, footing, and conformation are thought to play a role in injury. Most tendon injuries are reported in racehorses, but they are diagnosed in all performance horses. In recent studies of racing over fences, horses with a valgus conformation (turned in at the knee) or increased fetlock joint angle (from long, thin pasterns or long toes and low heels) have increased the risk for SDFT injury. Research shows that elite eventing and showjumping result in an increased risk for SDFT injury, and showjumping increases the risk of DDFT injury, while the risk for hindlimb suspensory desmitis is seen to be increased with dressage.

TREATMENT

The way a tendon injury is handled upon discovery can make a big difference to the ultimate outcome. Immediately after the injury, the aim is to combat inflammation and swelling. This is best accomplished with cold therapy, such as icing or cold-hosing, compression with bandaging, systemic medications like a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and box rest.

Although tendon scarring as it heals cannot be prevented, the goal is to make the scar tissue as functional as possible. This is achieved using controlled exercise as part of a rehabilitation programme. Periodic re-evaluation with ultrasound helps to determine the healing progress and allows the program to be altered, depending on how the tendon is healing.

A number of adjunctive therapies can also be used to help tendons heal, including extra-corporeal shock-wave therapy, therapeutic ultrasound and low-level laser and magnetic therapy. However, not all of these have clinical evidence to back them up. Biological therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), autologous conditioned serum and mesenchymal stem cells injected directly into a tendon injury under ultrasound guidance have shown some promise at either speeding healing, improving the quality of the healed tissue or helping to

reduce the incidence of reinjury. More work is definitely needed to understand exactly how these treatments work and what injuries are best addressed using them. This is a very active area of ongoing research.

There are also some tendon injuries that can benefit from surgical intervention such as injuries of the suspensory ligament in the hind limbs, the deep digital flexor tendon and the superficial digital flexor tendon when they are injured in a tendon sheath or bursa.

WHAT IS PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate of platelet-rich plasma proteins derived from whole blood, centrifuged to remove red blood cells. It has a higher concentration of growth factors than whole blood, which are critical for tissue repair and regeneration. PRP is used in various medical fields, including veterinary medicine, to promote the healing of injuries.

In horses, PRP is commonly used for the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries. The growth factors in PRP help to stimulate the healing process in these soft tissues, which have a limited blood supply and, therefore, heal slowly.

The process of using PRP in horses typically involves the following steps:

1. Blood collection: A sample of the horse's blood is collected in a sterile manner.

2. Preparation of PRP: The blood sample is then processed, usually by centrifugation, to concentrate the platelets and separate them from other blood components.

3. Ultrasound-guided injection:

The PRP is injected directly into the injured area, often under ultrasound guidance, to ensure precise placement.

The use of PRP in horses has shown promising results in accelerating the healing process, reducing inflammation, and improving the quality of the repaired tissue. However, it is important to note that PRP therapy should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also include rest, controlled exercise, and other supportive therapies. The decision to use PRP should be made in consultation with a veterinarian who is experienced in treating equine injuries.

RECOVERY

When a horse injures a tendon, recovery is going to be slow and sometimes proves impossible. Prognosis is entirely dependent on the severity and location of the injury but typically ranges from fair to guarded for future athletic use. An owner should expect that the horse will be out of full work for nine to 12 months while the injury heals. Unfortunately, horses who have had a tendon injury are highly prone to reinjury.

The way the rehabilitation is handled can make a huge difference in whether the horse is able to

return to his previous activity levels. As humans, we can rest by taking weight off the limb, but this is not possible for horses, so exercise has to be reduced as much as possible and only, very gradually, reintroduced. Exercise programmes must be followed strictly, as even compared to the most expensive treatments, early, controlled exercise of the tissue is the most essential aspect of healing. However, this is a delicate process as overloading too early can reinjure the tendon. Getting this balance between exercise and rest right is the difference between success and failure of rehabilitation.

HORSE AND HEALTH

DID YOU KNOW?

Horses with certain conformational traits, such as long pasterns or straight hocks, may be more prone to tendon injuries.

PREVENTION

Preventing tendon injuries is always preferable to treating them. Strategies for prevention include:

1. Performing a proper warm-up: Ensuring a thorough warm-up before intense exercise is essential.

2. Regular conditioning: Maintaining a consistent exercise routine can help strengthen tendons and muscles.

3. Appropriate legwear: Using boots or wraps can provide additional support to the tendons during exercise. Just beware of overheating due to boots, which has also been shown to damage tendons.

4. Cross-training through conditioning on different surfaces: Conditioning your horse to different types of terrain can help to strengthen soft tissues and reduce the risk of injury. All of this conditioning must be done in a controlled fashion, and each different surface must be introduced gradually.

5. Beware deep and uneven footing: Surfaces that are too soft or loose absorb shock forces well but lack

support. This type of footing can increase the risk of tendon and ligament-related injuries, such as over-extension. Similarly, exercising on uneven surfaces increases the risk of strain and or injury to tendons.

6. Monitoring workload: Avoiding overtraining and monitoring your horse's workload can help prevent overuse injuries.

7. Regular hoofcare: Regular hoofcare is vital for balanced feet and balanced feet support the rest of the horse’s body.

8. Regular check-ups: Routine veterinary exams can help catch potential issues early.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Tendon injuries can be a significant setback for both horse and rider, but with proper care and management, as well as dedicated rehabilitation, many horses can return to their previous activity levels. Understanding the risk factors, recognising the symptoms, following a comprehensive treatment plan and working closely with your vet are key to successful recovery.

A BUYER'S GUIDE TO ASSESSING EQUINE HEALTH

THE IMPORTANCE OF A PREPURCHASE EXAM

Buying a horse is a significant investment, both emotionally and financially. A pre-purchase exam (PPE) is an essential step in the buying process to ensure you are making a well-informed decision. This veterinary examination comprehensively assesses the horse's health and soundness, helping you identify potential issues before finalising the purchase.

A pre-purchase exam is not a pass-fail test but rather a detailed evaluation of the horse's current health status. It offers valuable insights into the horse's physical condition, identifying any existing or potential health problems that could affect his suitability for the intended use. The findings can influence your decision, negotiation terms, and future management plans for the horse.

COMPONENTS OF A PREPURCHASE EXAM

1. History and use assessment: exam begins with a discussion about the horse's history, including his medical background, training, and intended use.

2. Physical examination: The vet conducts a thorough physical exam, checking the horse's vital signs, body condition, and overall appearance. All body systems should be checked in a thorough pre-purchase examination, although certain elements, such as breeding soundness, are less relevant in some cases. Systems to check include:

• cardiothoracic (heart and lungs) system: murmurs, arrhythmias, nasal discharge

• dermatologic (skin): areas of depigmentation, masses, dermatitis, surgical scars

• oral (mouth): dental abnormalities

• ophthalmic (eyes): cataracts, uveitis, corpora nigra cysts

• musculoskeletal system: conformation, gait

• nervous system: normal reflexes, muscle atrophy, coordination

• reproductive system: breeding soundness, masses, discolourations

3. Lameness evaluation: This critical component, whilst part of the general musculoskeletal assessment, usually forms a large, if not the largest, part of the examination. In this portion, the vet assesses the

horse's gait, performs joint flexion tests, and checks for a response to hoof testers to detect any signs of lameness or discomfort.

4. Diagnostic testing: Depending on the findings, the vet may recommend further diagnostics, such as X-Rays, ultrasound, or endoscopy, to investigate specific areas of concern. Routine bloodwork can check for general health indicators and screen for infectious diseases. Further tests like a drug screen or reproductive evaluation may be advised based on the horse's intended use and initial exam results.

A NOTE ON FLEXION TESTS

Flexion tests are diagnostic tools vets use to assess a horse's limbs for signs of pain, stiffness, or lameness. The tests involve flexing a joint or a group of joints in the horse's leg for a short period and immediately observing his movement as he trots away. The aim is to identify any abnormalities in gait that may indicate underlying issues.

HOW FLEXION TESTS ARE PERFORMED

1. Preparation: The horse is usually trotted in hand to establish a baseline of his usual gait.

2. Flexion: The examiner holds a specific joint or group of joints in a flexed position for a set period, typically 30 to 60 seconds. Common areas for flexion tests include the fetlock, pastern, knee (carpus), hock, and stifle.

3. Observation: The horse is trotted off immediately after releasing the flexed joint. The examiner observes the horse's gait, looking for any signs of lameness, such as limping, shortstriding, or uneven weight-bearing.

4. Assessment: Each leg is tested separately, and the results are assessed based on the severity and duration of any lameness observed.

INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS

Negative test: If the horse trots off without showing any signs of discomfort or lameness, the test is considered negative, indicating no significant issues in the tested joint.

Positive test: The test is considered positive if the horse shows signs of lameness immediately after the joint is released. The degree of lameness can vary, and the results are often graded on a scale.

CONSIDERATIONS

• Subjectivity:  The interpretation of flexion tests can be subjective, and results may vary depending on the examiner's experience and the horse's condition.

• False positives: Some horses may show a positive response to a flexion test even in the absence of significant pathology. Factors such as the horse's age, fitness level, and previous injuries can influence the results.

• Diagnostic tool: Flexion tests are just one part of a comprehensive lameness examination. Positive results may warrant further investigation with diagnostic imaging (such as X-Rays or ultrasound) to determine the underlying cause, i.e. a positive flexion test is not a diagnosis in itself.

CONCLUSION

Flexion tests are a valuable tool in the assessment of equine lameness. They provide helpful information about the health and function of a horse's joints and can help identify areas that may require further investigation. However, the results should be interpreted in the context of a complete lameness examination and considered alongside other clinical findings.

A NOTE ON X-RAYS

The number of X-rays a veterinarian orders depends on the level of information the client wants. A complete set for most sporthorses consists of 40 to 42 views: four views of both front feet, four views of all four fetlocks, four views of both hocks, two views of each stifle, multiple lateral views of the neck and back, and sometimes a lateral view of each carpus (knee). To save money, clients may choose a limited set of images to screen certain 'hotspots'.

However, the story the X-Rays tell is not always straightforward, and care must be taken when interpreting radiographs, as it is common to find changes that do not relate to a clinical problem. Lots of horses, for

instance, have X-Ray changes that will never cause a problem, whilst others have no changes and rapidly develop issues. Ultimately, even with X-Rays, it is hard for vets to give potential owners the kind of certainty they are hoping for.

SOME SPECIFIC ISSUES VETS CHECK FOR ON X-RAY INCLUDE:

· Navicular: There is a lot of variety in this foot bone, and not every change indicates an issue. On the other hand, navicular bones may look normal, but an MRI may reveal serious deep flexor tendon injury. Cysts and lucencies (less dense areas) viewed on X-Rays are clear red flags.

· Negative palmar angle: It's a good idea to check the angle of the horse's coffin bone relative to the pastern in the foot. A negative hoofpastern axis makes the horse more prone to heel bruising and increased soreness in the navicular bone.

· Sidebone: Calcification of the collateral cartilage, or sidebone, can be a sign of abnormal mechanics in the foot. While horses can be sound, some experience fractures and subsequent lameness.

· Laminitis: Damage to the tissue between the hoof and coffin bone is often not disclosed, so vets should look for subtle signs such as remodelling, the thickness of the hoof wall, and evidence of rotation of the pedal bone.

· Osteoarthritis: Arthritis in highmotion joints, such as the coffin or fetlock joints, is frequently problematic from a management perspective. If a seller can provide previous X-Rays that show static change over time, this can be somewhat reassuring, but they are still no guarantee of future stability.

· Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD): Bone fragments in joints can contribute to inflammation, changes in cartilage, and osteoarthritis development. During an exam, vets will consider whether the fragments may later cause problems and whether surgery is an option. Small, smooth, and round chips are less problematic, while multi-fragmented chips often need to be removed. Bigger stifle chips in such a highmotion joint can also be a problem.

· Cysts: Bone cysts are areas of lytic bone or bony voids. Cysts that are near joints are usually major red flags.

· Dorsal spinous processes: Kissing spines vary in appearance on X-Ray. Some horses with very narrow spacing in their backs have good muscling and no soreness, while for others, it is problematic.

· Mineralisations: Small, random mineralisations may be due to previous injections or more serious causes such as coffin joint disease.

· Withers fractures: These fractures can occur when a horse flips over. Once they heal, the horses usually do fine. However, it may be a little harder to fit a saddle to them.

· Suspensories: Warmbloods can have larger suspensories (ligaments supporting the fetlock), depending on their size, but clear abnormalities may suggest disease. A thickened suspensory should be considered in context.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT VET

It's crucial to select a vet who is experienced in performing prepurchase exams. To ensure an unbiased assessment, it's advisable to choose an independent vet who does not have a prior relationship with the seller. Communication is key; you should discuss your expectations and any specific concerns with the vet before the exam.

INTERPRETING THE RESULTS

After the exam, the vet will provide a detailed report of the findings. It's important to discuss these results with the vet to fully understand their

implications. Some issues may be manageable or irrelevant to the horse's intended use, while others could be deal-breakers.

THE ROLE OF THE PREPURCHASE EXAM IN THE BUYING PROCESS

The pre-purchase exam is invaluable for making an informed decision when buying a horse. It helps identify potential health issues that could affect the horse's performance or require costly treatment. The results can also be used to negotiate the purchase price or terms of the sale.

There are many reasons, however, such as past personal experiences or a horse's proven performance record, why you may decide to make a purchase even with risky conditions or pass on a horse despite a clean bill of health.

THE BRITISH SYSTEM

In the British system, veterinary pre-purchase examinations are classified into two types: the Limited Pre-Purchase Examination and the Five-Stage Pre-Purchase Examination.

THE LIMITED PRE-PURCHASE EXAMINATION

As the name suggests, this is a restricted vetting, incorporating only two of the five possible stages. It is cheaper than the full fivestage vetting, but the horse is not subjected to a thorough clinical examination.

Before starting: The horse should have been stabled for at least two hours before the vetting begins and should not have been exercised

that day. The horse's passport must be with the horse, and the horse should have seen the farrier in the last three weeks. The horse should not be on any medication at the time of the vetting.

Stage One – At rest: The vet will assess the horse in his stable, observing behavioural characteristics, temperament, and general management before conducting a thorough examination of the horse. This includes auscultation of the heart and lungs at rest using a stethoscope, examination of the eyes using an ophthalmoscope and careful palpation all over. Afterwards, the horse is led outside and stood up square on a level surface

before being examined again. Conformation, foot shape and shoeing details are noted at this stage. The feet are also tested for soreness using hoof testers.

Stage Two – Trot up on a hard, level surface: The horse is walked and trotted in a straight line, in hand. Conformation and movement, as well as any signs of lameness are examined for. Flexion tests are carried out on all four limbs. Following this, the horse will be asked to back up and also turn in tight circles on both reins. The vet may decide to lunge the horse on hard or soft ground to examine for gait changes or evaluate any problems picked up with flexion or the manoeuvres.

THE FULL OR FIVE-STAGE PREPURCHASE EXAMINATION

The complete examination incorporates the first two stages, from the limited vetting stage, before progressing to the latter three stages.

Stage Three – Strenuous exercise: In this part of the exam, the horse undertakes strenuous exercise. Generally, the exercise should be of an intensity that makes the horse sweat and sends his heart rate up to 120 beats/minute. This

should ideally be ridden exercise, to assess behaviour under saddle and the different gaits. However, if, for whatever reason, this is not possible, then the horse can be lunged instead. Respiratory noise during exercise and on recovery is checked along with the heart for any abnormalities.

Stage Four – Rest: This is a rest period back in the stable, usually for 20-30 minutes. It is to allow the horse to recover fully and cool down after the exercise. Standing allows

the horse's recovery time to be assessed, and could show up any signs of stiffness or tying up after work.

Stage Five – Final walk and trot up: This involves a repeat walk and trot up in hand, with possible repetition of the flexion tests. The vet may also decide to lunge the horse again on both reins. This last part ensures that exercise and the following rest period have not revealed any signs of lameness or stiffness.

EXTRA TESTS

Blood is routinely collected from horses in the UK at pre-purchase examinations. This blood sample is sent to a central laboratory, where it is held for up to six months. If any lameness or behavioural issues arise in these six months, the purchaser can ask to have the blood tested for substances like painkillers and sedatives.

X-rays may be recommended for vettings of high-level performance horses, and if a noise is heard upon exercise, further evaluation of the upper airway by endoscopy may be advised.

FINAL THOUGHTS

A pre-purchase exam is a crucial step in the horse-buying process. It provides peace of mind and helps ensure that the horse you choose is a good fit for your needs and expectations. By investing in a thorough veterinary evaluation, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and set the stage for a rewarding partnership with your new equine companion.

I’ve heard that dried dandelions are good for horses, but how about the fresh ones that grow in the field? Are they okay for him to eat?

No part of a dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is toxic to horses. Even for us, eating raw or cooked, dandelion offers a good source of vitamins A, B, C, D, iron, potassium and zinc. Dandelion leaves can act as a diuretic and hence increase the frequency of urination. Research in humans also suggests that dandelion root helps to

improve liver and gallbladder function by increasing bile flow. Finally, the dandelion contains chemicals that block the bacteria E. Coli from binding to the bladder’s lining. This means ingesting dandelion can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections secondary to E. Coli.

All in all, your horse munching on a dandelion or two is no bad thing, and your horse may, in fact, be self-medicating on one of nature’s richest sources of vitamins and minerals.

NOTE

Young horses can take a while to settle in, and having a new routine and handlers is a big deal for them. It can take a few months for them to get used to their new surroundings and form a relationship with you. Be patient and give your new horse plenty of time. However, if you are still struggling to cope after a couple of months, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

first time, but I’m worried I don’t have enough experience. I have had horses for over ten years but never owned a youngster. I can’t afford to buy a going horse in today’s market, so a young horse is my best option, but how do I know if I can do it?

Working with young horses can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it isn’t easy, and you are right to be cautious. It’s great to have a blank canvas to work with, but also a big responsibility and things can go haywire quite quickly!

It is difficult to advise on your individual situation, but if you decide to go the young horse route, we advise you to have a sound support system in place. We would, for instance, recommend having lessons with someone with experience working with young horses. Not everyone can afford weekly lessons, but having lessons as often as possible is advisable when starting the young horse journey. Ask for homework from your new coach so that you have something to focus on in the intervening period, and make sure that you are comfortable enough with them to go back and ask for help if you get stuck.

Similarly, having an experienced yard manager can be hugely beneficial when starting out with a young horse. An experienced manager will know what to expect with a young horse and put provisions in place to manage them optimally. Young horses are commonly particularly anxious when they first come to a new environment, and having some experienced in dealing with this can be a game-changer.

Another thing to consider carefully when buying a youngster is their temperament. Choosing wisely in the beginning can save a lot of heartache later. When you go to view horses, try to get a feel for their personalities. How do they behave in the stable? What is he like when ridden? If this is the first youngster you will be producing, you want to choose sensibly and get a straightforward, easy-going type.

Ultimately, then, the choice is yours! There is nothing wrong with trying your hand at producing a young horse as long as you take the responsibility seriously (as it seems you do!) and seek help early and often.

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