InStride Edition - March 2024

COVER STORY

DITTY UP 12-15

By

Corrine

S. Borton

Photos by Kirstie Marie

FEATURES

GONE WESTERN: FASHION INDUSTRY’S LATEST TREND ALSO IN SHOW PEN 22-27

By Sarah Welk Baynum

Photos by Tyler Bicknell

EVENTS

PRAIRIE CLASSIC 31

DIXIE NATIONAL 35

SILVER DOLLAR 41

THE CHALLENGE 43

Photos by Shane Rux, Cody Parameter & Ryan Geiger

REGULAR COLUMNS AMATEURS 44-45

Amanda Smith

YOUTH 48-49

Carolyn Craddock

“INSIDE” LAW 51

By Katherine Jarve

“INSIDE” HEALTH 53-54

By Jackie Bellamy-Zions

THE BUZZ 57 ASSOCIATION NEWS 59

MARCH, 2024

ADVERTISING SALES

ADVERTISING SALES

Courtney B. Ament

Deanna Green Willis

WEBSITE ADVERTISING

Courtney B. Ament

TECHNICAL ANALYST

Brent Adam Borton

CIRCULATION

Lenora B. Sheppard

ADVERTISING DESIGNERS

Courtsey Designs

Denise Hawkins

Designs By Lola

Emajes

Hampel Designs

Jakovich Marketing

Valor Designs

WestWynde Designs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Courtney Borton Ament

Corrine S. Borton

Sarah Welk Baynum

COLUMNISTS

Brian Burks

Jackie Bellamy-Zions

COPY & RESEARCH

Lenora B. Sheppard

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Courtney B. Ament

Tyler Bicknell

Avid Photography

Ryan Geiger

Crystal Holman

Jeff Kirkbride

Kirstue Marie

Cody Parmenter

Shane Rux

Larry Williams

ince the day he was born, Forever Twisted, Nancy Ditty’s entry for this year’s 3-Year-Old & Over Western Pleasure Slot Class at the March To The Arch this month in Fort Worth, Texas, has been reminding her of life’s most important lesson.

Never give up.

The 2021 bay gelding, sired by Gone Viral out of Nancy’s own show mare, Forever Kool (Pumpernickel), had a rocky start, to say the least.

“I was there as he was being born and he came out looking like a leggy pretzel, so his barn name became Pretzel.”

Pretzel’s nose looked like a giant fish hook. It was deformed from the way he had laid in the womb. The recipient mare that carried Forever Kool’s embryo immediately disowned him and Nancy’s team began the search for a nurse mare.

“We were lucky enough to find an amazing mare through Cold Spring Nurse Mares but with his deformity he was unable to nurse correctly at first,” she explained. “The milk would run right out of his mouth and down his face so we bucket fed him with saved milk from another mare for the first month or so.”

That’s enough to frighten even the most seasoned breeder. But his health continued to decline.

“We then took him to the clinic and they had to help with his recovery,” Nancy said. “During this whole process of treating pretzel Dixie our 11-year-old Bassett Hound never left his side.”

“We gave him unlimited access to grain, hay and grass,” Nancy said. “He was puny and sick but healed and grew into something special. He is strong now and that amazingly shows what a fighter he is.”

Georgia trainer Jason English had a much different first impression of Pretzel. English trained Pretzel’s sire, Gone Viral, who won four Quarter Horse Congress Championships, eight NSBA World Championships and a bronze at the AQHA World Show. He also trained and exhibited Pretzel’s dam, Forever Kool.

When Pretzel was born, Nancy sent English a picture but he didn’t get to see him until months later. That didn’t matter at all. He couldn’t wait to get him into his program.

“Through many of his visits, Jason had big hopes for Pretzel and never gave up either.”

In November of his yearling year, Pretzel was finally on his way to Jason to get his under saddle training started. Nancy gave English the same strict instructions she did when she sent Forever Kool to him to train..... the horse will tell us when he is ready to compete.

Jason listened. But he had an edge.

“I trained and showed both of his parents so he holds a special spot in my heart,” English said. “He has a lot of qualities from both of them which makes it even more fun.”

Nancy agrees. Pretzel is a lot like his dam.

“He is very calm and has no worry in the world,” she said.

That’s a trait that helped Nancy and Pumpernickel rack up quite the show record. In 2017 they won the Non-Pro Longe Line at the Tom Powers Futurity and the mare also won the Open Western Longe Line there. Pumpernickel was also Reserve Western Longe Line champion at the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Championship Show that year and Reserve in the Breeders Championship Futurity Open Western Longe Line. The following year, Nancy and Forever Kool were unanimous champions in the 2-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the Tom Powers Futurity. They returned in 2019 to (tie to) win the 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure.

That same year they won the 3-YearOld Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the NSBA World Show and were Reserve Champions in the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the Quarter Horse Congress and ended up the year as NSBA 3-Year-Old Non-Pro High Point Champions. s

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Nancy Ditty is pictured top with Forever Twisted (left) and Machine Made Gold. On this page she is pictured with Forever Kool.

Then in 2020 Nancy and Pumpernickel returned to the Tom Powers Futurity to win the Non-Pro Maturity Western Pleasure and the mare was awarded a Tom Powers Super Horse Award for winning the Powers as a Yearling, 2-Year-Old, 3-Year-Old and Maturity contender, the only horse to accomplish that.

Like his dam, Forever Twisted is strong and lopes the same in both directions, English said. He also jogs well.

English said his challenge in preparing Pretzel for the Western Pleasure Slot Class at the March To The Arch will be getting him tired enough without getting him too tired.

“It is always hard to gauge that with a horse for the first time showing,” he admitted.

Nancy knows it will take even more.

“I have been in this industry long enough to know that the stars have to align just right,” she said. “Horses might give us the same or similar rides at three different shows and receive three different results. I want Jason and Pretzel to be the best they can be and have some luck. My mom (Susan Scott) always said you can do everything to prepare but you always need some luck to back you up. So I hope to be able to give them whatever luck they may need. I know they both are ready.”

After the slot class at the March To The Arch Nancy will get her turn on Pretzel. She will compete in 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure classes there as well as at at all the majors this year.

“I hope to show him long-term and enjoy him as much as I have enjoyed showing his mother,” she said.

DEEP ROOTS IN THE INDUSTRY

Nancy grew up in the industry (she jokes that she was born in Gainesville, Florida, when her mother was on her way home from a horse show) and she knows what it takes to be successful. She has numerous Congress and AQHA and NSBA World Championship and Breeders Championship Futurity Championships to her name. She is number three on the NSBA Top Non-Pro Western Pleasure Earners - behind only her mother in the number one spot and Becky Galyean, ranked number two.

She is ranked number two on the NSBA’s list of Top Non-Pro Yearling Longe Line Earners (Stanley Scott is ranked number one and Susan Scott is ranked fifth. And Nancy ranks 12th on the NSBA’s Top 20 Lifetime Earners in Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle. She was the 2023 NSBA top Non-Pro Western Pleasure Rider and is a member of the association’s Quarter Million Dollar Rider Club, the only Non-Pro competitor on the list behind her late mother.

She started showing at the age of 8 and grew up on Haylo Farm where her family raised approximately 28 foals a year.

She attended the University of Alabama and graduated in 1998 with a double major in Marketing and Psychology.

She and her husband, Seth own Ditty Up, located directly across the street from the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.

“Our farm sits on 64 acres and we just added 12.5 to it last year,” Nancy explained. “I take a lot of pride in Ditty Up because I live here.”

The program is built around mares

with impressive show records - like Huntin For A Cowboy, a 2009 red roan mare that Nancy rode to a Congress Championship in 2012. The daughter of Open Range out of Huntin A Cowboy was also a NSBA World Champion in Western Pleasure and she produced a NSBA World Champion, multiple Congress Champions and futurity winners.

Other noted broodmares include: Forever N Ever, dam of Forever Kool and Flatout Kool;, Troubles A Blazin, the dam of AQHA Superhorse Hes Blazin Trouble; and VS Lawless.

About 5-10 foals are born at Ditty Up each year.

“My favorite part of each day is seeing the babies through kitchen window every morning,” she said. “I have

my coffee and head straight to the barn.”

And she pays careful attention to selecting the right trainer for each horse.

“I try to keep sending my horses to trainers that have helped me achieve my goals and always are honest with me

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and my horses,” she explained. “I also like to work with people I have a good relationship with. It’s very important to me that I give each horse the best opportunity for success and that’s why I put so much thought into the individual horses style to match to the trainers style. For me it is not a one size fits all.”

That’s why she was so interested in Machine Made Gold, a 2017 palomino mare, sired by Machine Made out of AintSaynShzaGoldiger, that she purchased at the 2023 NSBA World Show, with the help of Florida trainers Rusty and Katie Green.

“Her breeding goes back to Really In Trouble, a line that has been very successful for myself, Rusty and Katie,” she said. “We had been watching and admiring her all year long and when the opportunity came along to purchase her, we jumped at the ‘golden’ opportunity.”

Nancy will show Machine Made Gold in Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturities and Amateur Western Pleasure and hopes to add Western Riding and Trail eventually, under the guidance of the Greens.

“Our relationship and friendship goes all the way back to when Rusty worked for my parents and he trained me as a youth kid,” Nancy explained. “I bet a lot of people didn’t know that. Rusty got me my first title in Western Pleasure at the AQHA Youth World Show with PCG Skip Shy Sequel. Again, I love having my horses with people that I enjoy to be with outside of the horse arena. It truly makes horse showing that much more fun and not always so serious.”

OUTSIDE THE SHOW PEN

Besides raising foals and competing in AQHA classes and at futurities across the country, Nancy wears several other hats.

First and foremost she is the proud mother of Luke, her 20- year-old-son, who attends Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the school’s Baseball Team. She also owns Coast to Coast Truck and Trailer Sales and Nelsons Truck and Trailer Sales, in Florida.

Nancy is also very dedicated to giving back to the industry that provided her with so much.

“It makes me so proud to carry on the family tradition of Haylo Farm in an industry that’s been like family to me for many years,” she said. “I always have the best guardian angel on my shoulder that anyone could ever ask for.”

Nancy has done everything she can to keep her late mother’s legacy alive by fundraising and helping the youth in the industry through the establishment of the Susan Scott Memorial Fund within the NSBA Foundation.

“The goal is to raise money to help youth that give back to their communities,” Nancy explained. “With our fundraising efforts we have been able to award 15 kids with financial support for the past three years and I hope to continue that for many more.”

Nancy encourages anyone interested in helping out with the cause, financial or otherwise, to reach out to her. You can reach Nancy Ditty via her Facebook page or the Ditty Up Facebook Page.

Nancy Ditty is pictured on the opposite page (top) with Huntin For A Cowboy and one of her foals; and showing the 2009 red roan mare to a Congress Championship in 2012. On this page she is pictured (top) with her husband, Seth and son, Luke; and with Nick Culwell, the 2023 NSBA Youth of the Year award recipient and third annual recipient of the $4,000 Susan Scott Memorial Scholarship.

friends and normies alike have adopted the look in various forms. It’s not rare to see someone strolling through Soho in all denim or a western shirt snapped up and paired with a classic pair of aviators.

forefront. I have always offered traditional western vibes in my show clothes in addition to the more simple elegant lines. My casual clothing line is always loaded with western vibes as well. However, I’m still seeing the want for geometric and highly blinged shirts vests and jackets for Showmanship. Trends change yearly, but these shirts are still paramount.”

Rhea Scott Follett, founder of CR Ranchwear predicts exhibitors will follow the trend.

Opposite Page:

Louis Vuitton’s menswear creative director, Pharrell Williams, released a fall collection in 2023 that is completely saturated with western style. The collection includes leather belts, boots, fringe and chaps and was showcased by models on the runway. Actors and actresses have also been spotted wearing western-themed attire at all types of events and on the red carpet. Jennifer Lopez wore western wear by Ralph Lauren at the company’s runway show in December, and Kerry Washington, wore a westerninspired ensemble to Elle’s Women In Hollywood Celebration in LA in December as well.

It begs the question: Will these highend designers also have an impact on what we see competitors wearing in the show ring this year, in classes like Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail?

WESTERN STYLE ON-TREND

It’s very possible that part of the reason we are suddenly seeing the traditional western style becoming on-trend again is due to the extremely popular television show Yellowstone and the rise in the popularity of country music.

“I think any fashion trend has an effect on the showring, actually,” she said. “I know that designers gather inspiration from all around them - I know I do. It's about color, cut and flair for the arena.”

Follett said what exhibitors always want is to have a fresh, clean, new and tasteful vibe.

“I think when Ralph Lauren does western, he has a certain look, and I personally love Ralph Lauren's look,” she said. “I think that any designer getting into the western area is going to have, hopefully, a new flair and something that other designers can look at and say, ‘What can I do with this idea?’”

“CR Ranchwear has always had a more traditional western style in our designs,” Follett said. “Are we going to do the spaghetti cowboy? Absolutely not – we are trying to bring a tasteful look whether that’s traditional or something else.”

According to Follett, designers like Ralph Lauren also tend to create their own line from trends that they see from an outside influence and a feeling they get from that trend.

“I definitely feel like a lot of the trends now are leaning toward the traditional western look,” said Tammy Schuster Bogart, owner of All That Show Clothing. “Yellowstone, country music and Nashville, have helped bring the western style back to the

“I know I get ‘that feeling’ when I see something I like, and I think OK, how can I recreate that to make riders look good? How would that appear in the arena? These are great designers and I look up to them. Are they going to have an effect? Will we see exhibitors wearing Ralph Lauren in the arena? Maybe somebody will,” she said.

CR Ranchwear designs, like the shirts pictured top, have always had a more traditional western style, said founder Rhea Scott Follett. Below that, two Alll That Show Clothing designs that illustrate what owner Tammy Schuster Bogart says is a trend that exhibitors are leaning toward traditinal western designs. s

WHO INFLUENCED WHOM

Alternately, it begs the question: did the horse show clothing designers have an impact on the high-end mainstream designers instead?

“While I agree that the ‘real world’ high-end designers will have an impact on the designs we see this year, we’ve also seen these styles on our end for a while now. So, it is possible we had an impact on them instead,” said Kelly Mundrick Martin, owner of Head To Tail Boutique.

“In years past, we’ve followed fashion trends to influence our show designs, and I think it is very much the other way around right now,” insists Rebekah Kazakevicius, who owns and operates Brinks Hattery with her partner Kevin Glover. “Designers have taken notice of western lifestyle, and that’s perhaps why you’ve seen a lot of that on the runway with Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. Even Dior with their classic saddle bag is showing this theme, and Hermes has always been heavily equine influenced. You have other high-end designers, like Celine and Valentino, introducing western influence in their designs as well, and even brands like Wrangler are shooting their campaigns more high-fashion.”

THE TELL-TALES OF THE TRADITIONAL STYLE

There are people out there who want the traditional western look mainly because of type of riding they do, such as Ranch Riding, which has an impact on the industry as a whole.

“At CR Ranchwear, we try to meet that look all the time with our very simple shirts, the one color, and then also combining fabrics to make a ‘cheaper’ look on purpose,” Folett said. “This is because people want to look as if they're actually Ranch Riding, even when showing, since the goal is using their horses for activities on the ranch. And yes, this is a very traditional look. Will everybody put their own flair to it? Absolutely. There will still of course be people who have a very simple way they want to look. But then, you're also going to have some people that want to spice it up a little bit.”

Yokes, along with flower applique, and turquoise are also a classic look of the traditional style attire. A western yoke is curved, and a stylized contouring that comes to one or more points, as opposed to a straight stitch commonly found in conventional shirt designs. From a design point of view, yokes were created to accentuate broad shoulder and is still a commonalty in traditional style shirts.

“I do a lot with yokes, flowers, and turquoise stones which are all very much old style western,” Bogart said. “Traditional western attire typically has the yokes cotton and flower appliqué, as well as turquoise stones – it’s a very particular look. Not everyone will like that style of course, but some people do. Yokes, I would say, are what really make a shirt more traditional. Other than that, the old western look had scarves and simple shirts. But, I do not foresee scarves coming into trend at all.”

Most of the designers agree that yokes and turquoise make up an integral part of the traditional western style in apparel as well.

“I’ve had some beautiful pieces come along in the past year or so with western yokes and western themes -– they can be so much fun from the colors, fringes, conchos, and turquoise used,” said Martin, who also competes in American Quarter Horse Association classes. “For me personally, because I only have a

Horsemanship horse right now, you’ll see me in different pieces. However, if my horse Hot Mess N A Dress and I do debut in Western Riding this year you might see me throw in some traditional western flare.”

According to Kazakevicius, clean lines are always in style.

“I’ve noticed a lot of color blocking and clean lines lately,” she said. “I have also noticed a lot of stripes and plaids in style recently too, but in a neutral color way. Still clean lines, but the neutrals tone it down and are easier to color match.”

As far as accessories like hats, the trends for how traditional the attire is seemingly depends on in which class the exhibitor competes.

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Deanna Green Willis is pictured on this page modeling one of the very popular buckstitched hats from Brinks. Inset is a navy hat with metallic buckstitch. On the opposite page (top) an exapmle of the western-themed shirts ofered by Head To Tail Boutique.

“I personally like to stick with a ‘less is more’ philosophy and have always focused on this when helping customers match hats with outfits,” said Kazakevicius. “You can always add more, but starting with a clean slate is always a safer option.” “For the most part, exhibitors in classes like Halter, Showmanship and Horsemanship go with very simple and clean looks. I would say these classes are generally considered the most traditional as far as hat style is concerned. We are offering four new limited colors to help clients better match their outfits and put a cohesive look together. For classes with typically less traditional styles like Ranch, Reining and Trail – you can have fun with those! Whiplace, buckstitch, and overlay are always a fun option to use when you get to go out of the box. These classes typically don’t follow the rules, so I’m anxious to see if they follow trend with some of the high fashion designers and lean towards cleaner lines this year.”

WHAT’S DRIVING THE TRENDS?

Follett says there’s one overall goal.

“Be it my shirts or someone else's shirts, we want to satisfy what the customer wants when they go into the arena,” she said. “I don't necessarily go back and study the traditional attire, although maybe now I should. I just know what

my riders want and are asking for, and I'm trying to provide them with some different things to coordinate with their blankets and things that will pop during their ranch riding so I can give them a complete look.”

“At CR Ranchwear, we always try to embrace the traditional with our own flair, and we try to offer shirts that each of the disciplines feel that they can wear since we cater to so many different disciplines,” Follett said.

But all the designer agree that what’s most important making sure customers are comfortable in their choices.

“My personal opinion is that competitors need to wear what suits them and what they’re comfortable in – be it traditional or something else,: Martin said. “Competitors should let their personalities shine through with what they wear.”

And the industry is ever changing.

“I think we already have quite a bit of the tradition, but can we do a better job?” Follett asked. “I think always we can do a better job. That's my goal - always to do a better job in meeting whatever the needs of the riders are in these different disciplines. I’ve recently had a few orders that were asking for more of the traditional look with a new flare, so this could potentially point toward the trend beginning to emerge in the horse world.”

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Amanda Smith is pictured on this page with her new show partner, Shop Class.On the opposite page (top) Smith is shown with Rusty and Al Southern Couture. Below that (left) Amanda and Tim Niedzwiecki at their 2022 wedding in Key West and Amanda winning the 4-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle at The Premier.

When you know, you know.

Last year when Amateur competitor Amanda Smith took a test ride on Shop Class (Rusty), it only took a few laps around the practice pen at the National Snaffle Bit Association’s World Championship Show to know he would become her next show partner.

Smith’s trainer, Farley McLendon found the 2019 sorrel gelding, sired by The Mechanic and out of Hoos Skyline, for her and when she hopped off, she had a big smile on her face.

“We knew he was the one after that,” Smith recalled.

Smith and Rusty will compete in Amateur Hunter Under Saddle and Non-Pro Maturity Hunter Under Saddle

“My first show horse was Jessie,” Smith said. “He was a big red Quarter Horse. I took lessons at a local stable that was very family oriented and fun. We would all attend the summer circuit weekend shows.”

When she is not showing, Smith’s job as president of Jag Environmental in Syracuse, keeps her quite busy.

“We specialize in asbestos abatement and demolition,” she explained.

It’s through her job that Smith met her husband, Tim Niedzwiecki, who works in the same industry. They split their time between Syratoga, New York and Naples, Florida.

“I knew Tim for a while before we dated,” she said. “He was always a very kind and positive person. He inspires me every day. We got married in Key West in December of 2022.”

classes this year and he will be shown by McLendon in Junior Hunter Under Saddle and Maturity Hunter Under Saddle classes at all the majors.

In addition to being incredibly talented, Rusty has quite the personality. He enjoys eating sweet potatoes and he loves getting his picture taken.

“He is incredibly photogenic,” Smith added.

In addition to Rusty, Smith also recently purchased Al Be In First Class, a 2021 bay mare, sired by The Mile High Club and out of Al Always Be Good. Smith will show her in the 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle classes at all the major futurities this year and McLendon will show her in 3- Year-Old Open Hunter Saddle classes.

The daughter of David and Cynthia Smith, she grew up in Syracuse, New York and graduated from Marcellus High School in Onondaga County.

Smith’s family owned horses while she was growing up and at age 6 she started her show career at little Summer Circuit Shows in Upstate New York.

In fact, it was her husband who encouraged Smith to return to her passion for showing horses three years ago. So after an 11-year break, Smith purchased Shocking Hot Chips, a 2018 bay gelding, sired by Extremely Hot Chips out of Boom Shock Alocka.

Together they earned several circuit championships and year-end awards. Next Smith teamed with Al Southern Couture, a 2019 grey gelding, sired by Its A Southern Thing out of All About Couture. Together they won the 4-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle Maturity at the Premier last year in Lexington, Kentucky; earned numerous circuit championships and finished the 2023 show year fifth in AQHA Amateur Hunter Under Saddle standings.

Ths year Smith wants to focus on enjoying herself.

“I have a busy life and showing takes my mind off the everyday stresses,” she said. “I show first and foremost for fun and because I love horses. I also love to set goals and try my best to meet them. My goals last year were met, so having a good ride is important to me. I want to come out of the show ring smiling and know we both did our best. Of course, trophies and belt buckles are always a plus!”

Amateur Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an Amateur profile email Corrine Borton, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.

Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Cody Parmenter

C�olyn C�dd�k

Ohio competitor has had the same show partner since she was in the AQHA’s Small Fry Division

Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Shane Rux & Ryan Geiger

There are not many competitors in the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth 14-18 division today who can say they have had the same show partner since they were competing as a Small Fry. But 16-year-old Carolyn Craddock can count herself as one of them.

In 2016, the daughter of Justin and Stephanie Craddock, of Johnstown, Ohio, first teamed with Batt In The Night, a 2013 sorrel gelding, sired by Batt Man out of Sandys Flashy Zipper, after getting her feet wet at open shows with an AQHA mare by the name of Love That Ty. Together they developed into a competitive team, even clinching a seventh place finish in their division Hunter Under Saddle at the All American Youth Show when Carolyn was just 7-years-old.

It didn’t take long, however, for her to outgrow Ty and by the time she was sold, Carolyn still had two years left in the Small Fry Division. Her family felt confident Batt In The Night had what it takes to help her transition into the competitive Youth Division.

At first, the team concentrated mainly on Western Pleasure and Showmanship but six years ago she began working under the guidance of Orient, Ohio trainer Brad Leubben and with his help started venturing into new events.

“I had a strong desire to add other classes, especially Horsemanship,” Carolyn said. “Brad has not only been able to keep me and Batman successful in Western Pleasure, but has helped us successfully add Trail and Horsemanship. I would argue it takes a special trainer to be able to do that.”

In 2018 Carolyn and Batt In The Night placed 11th in 11 & Under Showmanship at the Quarter Horse Congress and returned the following year to clinch ninth place in 11 & Under Horsemanship. Also in 2019 they won a bronze in 13 & Under Western Pleasure at the AQHA Level 1 East Championship Show. In

2021 they finished in the top 15 in 13 & Under Western Pleasure at the AQHA World Championship Show and then in 2022 they returned to the Level 1 East Championship Show to capture another bronze, this time in 14-18 Youth Western Pleasure. They also tied for 10th at the NSBA World Champi-

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onship Show in Novice Youth Trail.

Eventually, Carolyn would like to add Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation to their repertoire as well. To get some experience, she leased ShesWorthTheHartache, a 2013 mare by Iron Age.

“I like the speed at which the horses show and this would be a challenge since we haven’t previously competed in these events,” she said.

Carolyn faced her biggest challenge to date last year when Batt In The Night suffered an injury requiring time off.

“I had some lofty goals for last show season but instead I had to be persistent to find other ways to get saddle time,” she explained. “One of those outlets has been taking reining lessons, and really just riding any other show horse (or retired show horse) that has been made available.”

Her family also owns Made To Be Certain, a 2020 mare, sired by Machine Made out of Born To Be Certain and while Carolyn and Batt In The Night were sidelined she showed the mare to a Level 1 East Championship in Youth 3-Year-Old Mares last year. Made To Be Certain is Carolyn’s mother’s show horse and she enjoys showing alongside her. Carolyn and Batt In The Night returned to the show pen last month at The Challenge.

“There has been a good lesson learned though as I’ve been able to become creative to overcome obstacles by continuing to gain saddle time and experience outside of what I have been used to in the past,” she said.

Carolyn is a junior at Johnstown-Monroe High School and when she’s not riding or at a show she enjoys working out or going shopping with friends.

She is a Type 1 diabetic but says she has never let that hold her back or get in her way.

“I am an advocate for others with Type 1 diabetes and enjoy educating people on the differences between Type 1 and Type 2,” she said. “There is a significant amount of misunderstanding surrounding this disease, especially in kids and teens, so I am passionate about helping to dispel myths and teach people about this disease.”

Youth Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for a youth profile email Corrine Borton, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.

Carolyn Craddock is pictured on the opposite page with Batt In The Night at the 2022 Level 1 East Championship Show and competing with him in Trail and Showmanship at the 2022 Quarter Horse Congress. On this page Carolyn is pictured (counter clockwise from top) with her family (left to right) dad, Justin; brother, Casey; mother, Stephanie; and brother, Cody, on vacation; showing Batt In The Night in Trail in Horsemanship at the 2024 SOQHA The Challenge; and showing Love The Ty, at the All American Youth Show.

LOOSE HORSES by

Katherine Jarve

It’s the responsibility of owners to protect themselves from liability

With urbanization bleeding into the countryside, horse farms are now finding themselves in more densely populated areas. The increase in population also brings an increase in motor vehicle traffic and accidents, including those involving loose livestock. Generally, it is the responsibility of the owner or custodian of a horse to make sure that the horse is properly contained and kept off roadways. Each state has its own laws that horse owners and custodians must follow. These laws typically fall into the following categories:

“Fence In” Laws. Most eastern states and jurisdictions in Canada require horses to be fenced in. If an accident occurs due to loose horses, then most states apply a “negligence” standard. This means that an injured person must show that the owner and/or custodian of the horse acted in an unreasonable manner that somehow caused or allowed the horse to escape. The circumstances of each case will vary, but the majority of negligence cases involve improper or faulty fencing and containment. Typically, in these instances, a horse will escape from fencing that is sub-standard or in a state of disrepair. For example, if your fence is damaged in a storm and you fail to repair it in a reasonable time, then you could be held liable for any damages resulting from a horse that escapes from the property through the broken fencing.

but has occurred under extraordinary circumstances.

Avoiding Liability. What are some ways that you can avoid liability?

First, make sure that your fencing is secure and complies with state or local laws. Routinely inspect your fencing for damage and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible. Consider the ages and temperament of the horses that will be occupying the space, the size of the enclosure, and the surrounding terrain when erecting the fence. Avoid mixing different kinds of animals (horses with cattle or other livestock), introducing new animals to a herd, or mixing a stallion with other horses. These conditions can change herd dynamics, disrupt the “pecking order,” and increase the likelihood for horses

Generally, it is the responsibility of the owner or custodian of a horse to make sure that the horse is properly contained and kept off roadways.

to bolt and potentially break loose.

In addition to faulty fencing, owners and custodians of horses have been found to be negligent when the stable left a gate open, the horse had a known history of escapes, or the handler lost control of the horse.

Open Range Laws. Many states in the west, including Texas, have some form of “open range” laws. These laws designate certain areas where livestock, including horses, can roam freely. In areas designated for open range, horses are even permitted to enter onto public roadways. These areas are typically marked with clear warning signs and motorists must drive at their own risk. Therefore, if an accident occurs due to a horse wandering out onto the roadway in an open range area, the owner or custodian of the horse will not be liable.

Strict Liability Laws. In a very small number of states, “strict liability” laws apply for damage caused by loose horses. Strict liability means that regardless of how or why the horse got out, the owner or custodian is responsible for the damage caused by the horse. You should note that strict liability laws are the exception and generally only apply in limited situations.

Criminal Laws. In some states, owners or custodians of loose livestock could face criminal penalties, such as fines and/or imprisonment for damage or injury. This is very rare,

Next, purchase insurance. Liability insurance policies cannot prevent escaping livestock, but you can purchase proper coverage to protect you in case a claim or suit arises. However, you should be aware that homeowner’s insurance policies generally do not cover these types of claims. You may need to purchase an additional general liability policy, particularly if you are operating a commercial business.

Finally, if you find yourself on the wrong side of a lawsuit involving a loose horse, you should immediately contact an attorney. There may be legal defenses available to you. One of the most common defenses is that the horse was able to escape through an unknown defect in the fence. While it is the responsibility of the owner or custodian to inspect and maintain the fence, if the defect is hidden and not discoverable by a reasonable inspection, then the defense may be valid.

Katherine Jarve is a partner at the Marlton, New Jersey law firm of Jarve Granato Starr, LLC. She is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and maintains a practice in personal injury and civil litigation, including equine related issues. Katherine spent her childhood competing on the national AQHA show circuit. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have a specific legal question or problem, consult with an experienced equine law attorney. Questions, comments or suggestions can be e-mailed to kjarve@nj-triallawyers.com.

GUT HEALTH

by Jackie Bellamy-Zions

An unhealthy digestive system can cause poor performance and pain

As Gastrointestinal issues (GI) are the number one cause of morbidity in horses other than old age. An unhealthy digestive system can cause poor performance, pain, discomfort, diarrhea, and a whole host of issues that can sideline your horse. It’s no wonder researchers are paying close attention to the ‘second brain’ and its billions of inhabitants.

Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) researcher, Dr. Luis Arroyo has been studying the equine gastrointestinal systems for many years with several research projects receiving funding from Equine Guelph. Arroyo discusses what we know about equine gut health, causes of GI disorders and the extensive continuing research to understand what unstable and stable gut populations look like.

Basic anatomy plays a key role.

“The gastrointestinal track of a horse is extremely large, and there are many things that can cause disturbances to the normal functioning or health of the gut,” Arroyo said. “A healthy gut microbiome is essential for the horse’s entire body to function optimally.

Signs of GI issues

system, which in turn can lead to the development of gas colic. Arroyo provides the example of switching from dry hay fed in the winter, to rich, lush, spring grass as a big cause of rapid fermentation that can cause colic.

Any abrupt change, even if it’s a good quality feed to a different good quality feed, can be a source of colic. Then there is the more obvious consumption of moldy, poor, quality hay. So not only the quality but the transition/adaptation period needs to be considered when making feed changes and this goes for both changes to forage or concentrates.

A table of feed transition periods on the Equine Guelph website states an adaptation period of at least 10-14 days is rec-

Colic is the number one clinical condition occurring in horses. It is well-known that sudden dietary changes can be a major contributor as well as diets that are high in grain.

Common signs of disorders could include abdominal pain, bloating, changes in fecal consistency (including diarrhea or constipation), excessive drooling, decrease in water consumption, lack of or poor appetite, weight loss and low body condition score.

“Some cases are more obvious to owners,” Arroyo explained, “like poor performance, or acute or chronic diarrhea.”

Changes of behaviour such as becoming cranky or moody can be tell-tale signs there is unrest in the GI system. Biting at the flanks can signal abdominal pain as well as reactivity to being saddled. When the horse stops wanting to perform and athletic abilities suddenly decline, if there is no obvious lameness, GI issues are high among the considerations.

“Horses are herbivores, designed to consume a diet of forage, and to break down complex sugars within that forage.” Arroyo said. “The gut microbiota does this job and is very important for healthy digestion.” Recent research is connecting the changes in diversity of microbial communities to conditions like colic, colitis, and gastric ulcers.

Causes of GI Issues

Colic is the number one clinical condition occurring in horses. It is well-known that sudden dietary changes can be a major contributor as well as diets that are high in grain. This can create changes in the volatile fatty acids produced in the GI

ommended. Transition periods under seven days can increase colic risk over 22 times.

“Decrease in water consumption can be an issue, especially in countries with seasons,” Arroyo explained.

When water gets really cold, horses often drink less, and if it freezes, they don’t drink at all, which can lead to impaction colic. Parasite burden can also cause colic. If your horse lives in a sandy environment, like California, ingesting sand can cause impaction colic.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can cause colic or ulcers. NSAIDS can interfere with blood supply to the GI tract causing ulceration, for example in the mucosa of the stomach. Prolonged use can cause quite severe ulceration.

But NSAIDS are not the only drugs that can contribute to GI issues.

“Antibiotics as the name says, kills many kinds of bacteria,” Arroyo explained. “They are designed for that. Invariably they deplete some bacterial populations including in the intestine, and that is a problem because that may allow some other bacteria, potentially pathogenic or harmful, to overgrow, and that can cause dysbiosis.”

In a recent study, by fellow OVC researcher, Dr. Gomez and co-workers, it was determined that damage to the intestinal microbiota could occur after only five days of administering antibiotics to horses. Damage to the intestinal microbiota resembled dysbiosis that can potentially result in intestinal

inflammation and colitis predisposing the horse to diarrhea. Judicious use of antibiotics and antimicrobials are advised.

There are infectious and non-infectious causes of colitis. Infectious examples include salmonella and then there is Neorickettsia risticii, which if ingested from contaminated sources, can cause Salmonellosis or Potomac horse fever, respectively.

“Any stress factors such as transportation, fasting or intense exercise like racing, can be a factor for developing stomach ulcers,” Arroyo said.

Current Diagnostics

Putting together a picture of the horse’s health status includes gathering clinical history from the horse owner and performing a physical examination for motility and hydration status. A biochemistry profile and complete set count can be gathered from blood testing.

Gastric ultrasound allows veterinarians to view the wall of the intestine, noting if it has thickened or distended, which could occur in cases when there is colic. They can assess appearance and find out if the intestine is displaced or if there is a twist. Gastroscopy is commonly used to find ulcers in the stomach and can reach as far as the first part of the duodenum.

GI Research

“DNA sequencing has been a breakthrough in science in terms of understanding the communities of different microorganisms living in many different niches from the skin to the lungs to the upper airways to the intestine,” Arroyo said.

It has allowed in-depth study of the population of microorganisms, providing a big picture of the different inhabitants in various areas of the GI tract, such as the lumen of the small intestine and the small and large colon. “The microorganisms vary, and they have different functions in each compartment,” Arroyo said.

DNA sequencing has allowed researchers to study microbial populations and gather information on what happens to bacterial communities when impacted by diseases like colitis. “We can see who is down, and who is up,” explains Arroyo, “and determine what populations have been depleted.” It has led to a better knowledge of which of the billions of factors are harmful to the system and which can compromise the health of the horse.

Robo-gut is one example of a fantastic system where bacterial communities are being replicated in the lab to mimic what would be found in a natural environment.

Researchers at the University of Guelph have measured metabolic profiles of the bacterial population after the addition of supplements like probiotics and prebiotics. They found they can dramatically change the metabolites that are being produced, according to what is being added to the system.

Exciting new research that could impact the future of diagnostics includes screening for biomarkers as indicators of intestinal health among equine microbiota. Dr. Arroyo is currently working with research partner, Dr. Marcio Costa, from

the University of Montreal, looking for biomarkers that indicate changes in the inhabitants of the equine gut that take place during the early onset of illness.

“A biomarker is a biological molecule that you can find in different places,” Arroyo explained. “For example, you might find them in tissue, blood, urine, or different body fluids. They can signal normal or abnormal processes or could reveal a marker of a disease.

For example, a biomarker can be used to see how well the body might respond to a treatment or to a disease condition.”

“The objective of a dysbiosis index is quantifying ‘X’ number of certain bacteria that are important to us,” Arroyo said. In this case, the dysbiosis derives from sequencing of the bacterial population in fecal samples.

Changes in the intestinal microbiota (dysbiosis) are present before and during the outset of diseases and after treatment with antibiotics. Arroyo cites the example of decreased Lachnospiraceae commonly observed when there is intestinal inflammation.

Bacterial biomarkers are currently being used in other species to accurately predict intestinal dysbiosis, for example in cats and dogs. One canine study quantified the number of seven different taxa of importance of the total bacterial populations. This information is entered into a mathematical algorithm that comes up with results explaining which bacteria have increased or decreased. Based on those numbers, one can use a more specific taxa to identify dysbiosis. In a feline study, it was discovered that six bacterial taxa could be accurately used to predict diarrhea in 83% of cases.

It is hoped the same results could be accomplished for horses. Developing PCR testing to screen for biomarkers could be a game changer that could potentially provide speedy, economical early diagnostics and early treatment.

So far, the most remarkable finding in the preliminary data reveals that in horses with colitis, the whole bacterial population is very depleted.

“At this stage we are in the process of increasing our numbers to find significant differences in which bacterial taxa are more important,” Arroyo said. “Soon we hope to share which bacteria taxa are more promising for predicting dysbiosis in horses with gastrointestinal disease.”

Jackie Bellamy-Zions is an Equine Canada Certified Level 2 Eventing Coach and "r" Dressage Judge. She is a member of the Communications & Administration Team at the University of Guelph in Canada. It is a unique partnership dedicated to the health and well-being of horses, supported and overseen by equine industry groups. Equine Guelph is the epicentre for academia, industry and government – for the good of the equine industry as a whole. For further information, visit www.equineguelph.ca. You can email Jackie directly at: english_coach@yahoo.ca.

BUZZ

ON THE WEB

(www.instrideedition.com)

(IN) LIFE

Sumac Gunnabeflashy, owned by Leslie Vagneur Lange of Greeley, Colorado, has been named NSBA’s 2023 Horse of the Year. Sumac. The 2017 sorrel AQHA and solid APHA gelding by Gunnatrashya and out of Chics Graceful WhizGunnabeflashy earned $52,259 in NSBA earnings along with 120.5 NSBA points to earn the title.

(IN) DEATH

AQHA STALLION CERTAIN POTENTIAL DIES IN FLORIDA HIS FOALS HAVE EARNED 56,347 AQHA POINTS AND LOGGED $1,590,864 IN NSBA EARNINGS

Leading AQHA sire of Western Pleasure contenders Certain Potential passed away on Feb. 23, at the University of Florida, where he had been living out his retirement.

Sired by Potential Investment, the 1996 bay stallion was out of Miss Surely Bars and was bred by Jane Wilhite.

Certain Potential got his show career started by Texas trainer Steve Heckaman and was owned by Tim and Lou Petty as well as Darol Rodrock and Kim Dean. Earning an AQHA Superior award in Western Pleasure, Certain Potential also logged over $48,000 in lifetime earnings.

Ann Admonius, of Ocala, Florida, passed away on Feb. 29. A graduate of Miami University in Ohio with a degree in education, Ann and her husband, Tim, were among the founders of The Sanctuary, a sports therapy and rehabilitation center in Ocala, Florida.

Teamed with Deeno Man, Ann won the 1986 AQHA Amateur Rookie of the Year title and was the Reserve AQHA All-Around Amateur in 1987 with over 500 points. Along with her longtime trainer, Troy Compton, Ann showed such decorated horses as Zippos Tiger Bar, Good Version, Im Up To No Good, Hes Up To No Good, Miss Potential Zip, Too Good To Skip and Good Miss Molly. She also won won four AQHA World Championship titles with the AQHA mare Precious Mister and also showed A Mona Lisa Clu, under the guidance of Ross Roark. Ann accumulated lifetime NSBA earnings of $89,539. In 2009 she started her career in Reining winning the Limited Non-Pro Reining at the All American Quarter Horse Congress that year with Better Not Best. By 2021 she had recorded over $50,000 in lifetime NRHA earnings. She was one of just a few exhibitors to win the Quarter Horse Congress in Halter, Western Pleasure and Reining.

Out of his 24 crops, his foals have earned 56,347 AQHA points, six Amateur AQHA World Championships, 13 Open AQHA World Championships and three AQHA Youth Championships. Certain Potential offspring have recorded over $1,590,800 in NSBA earnings, $365,541 in Incentive Fund earnings and $209,158 in AQHA World Championship Show earnings. Those foals also earned more than $170,500 in NSBA Breeders Championship Futurity earnings.

In addition to 15-time AQHA World Champion and 29-time Quarter Horse Congress Champion A Certain Vino and

AQHA World Champion and Congress Masters Western Pleasure Champion Certainly Inspired, Certain Potential sired: A Certain Illusion, earner of $47,889 in NSBA earnings; Crystals Legacy, earner of $41,373 in NSBA earnings; Certainly On Sundi, earner of $40,482 in NSBA earnings; UF Rockin The House, earner of $39,428 in NSBA earnings; UF A Certain Star, earner of $38,256 in NSBA earnings; A Certain Melody, earner of $37,696 in NSBA earnings and nearly 500 AQHA points; Rockin For Certain, earner of $33,891 in NSBA earnings; Good Vybes, earner of $33,714 in NSBA earnings; A Cooki For Certain, earner of $25,401 in NSBA earnings; Cer-

PENN STATE PLANS QUARTER HORSE AUCTION

tainly Radical, earner of $24,526 in NSBA earnings; The Monie Man, earner of $21,225 in NSBA earnings; UR Certainly Invited, earner of $21,262 in NSBA earnings; Certain To Cruise, earner of $19,556 in NSBA earnings; RR Only Young Once, earner of $18,570 in NSBA earnings; Just Roll With It, earner of $18,297 in NSBA earnings; A Certain Luxury, earner of $18,294 in NSBA earnings; Leaguers Finale, earner of $17,651 in NSBA earnings; A Good Reputation, earner of $16,748 in NSBA earnings; CTC Imagination, earner of $15,907 in NSBA earnings; and Upp Close N Personal, earner of $14,344 in NSBA earnings.

22ND ANNUAL EVENT PLANNED FOR APRIL 27 AT THE SNIDER AGRICULTURAL ARENA ON CAMPUS

The 22nd annual Penn State Equine Science Showcase and Quarter Horse Sale will begin on Saturday, April 27 at the Snider Agricultural Arena in University Park, Pennsylvania. Potential buyers are invited to a full-day showcase to see demonstrations of the horses under saddle, meet students from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, and learn more about the university’s equine science program.

Bidding for the online auction, run by Professional Horse Services LLC, will begin April 27 and run through Tuesday,

April 30. This year, 14 two- and threeyear-old horses are available for purchase.

The showcase is the equine program’s most prominent public event. During the spring semester, more than 60 students in Animal Science 117: Equine Marketing are involved in the preparation. Students acquire sponsorships, create advertisements and train the young horses under saddle.

The showcase will also include a free lunch, information about the ongoing equine research and a silent auction to benefit the Ward Studebaker Horse Farm

Endowment. All of Penn State’s equestrian clubs will be represented, and there will be booths from some of the sale’s sponsors.

In 2011, Penn State was recognized by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) with its Legacy Award. The Legacy Award honors breeders who have registered at least one foal for fifty consecutive years.

For additional information on this year’s sale and the Penn State Program you can visit https://sites.psu.edu/quarterhorsesale/

The

ASSOCIATIONS

BYRD RESIGNS (IN) ApHC NEWS

The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) recently announced the resignation of Kristopher Byrd as the association’s Executive Director.

During his tenure serving the ApHC Byrd facilitated in the celebration of the 75th National Appaloosa Horse Show and Youth World Show in Oklahoma City and oversaw the first successful online registration.

To ensure the smooth transition of key projects, Byrd will transition into a remote consulting role for the next two months. A search for his successor will be launched immediately, according to the ApHC Board of Directors.

In the interim members are asked to contact ApHC President Lori Wunderlich with immediate needs by emailing her at wunspot@gmail.com.

For the latest news on the association visit www.appaloosa.com.

5TH WORLD SHOW (IN) ARHA NEWS

The Fifth Annual American Roan Horse Association (ARHA) World Championship Show will run in conjunction with The Southland Circuit, July 13-15, at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum, in Murfreesboro.

Managed by Peak Equine Productions, information - including online entries, patterns, a show schedule, stall reservations, RV reservations, host hotels and all-around guidelines can be found on the association’s website at www.ridearoan.com.

PAYNT POINTS

APHA PROPOSES COMPETITION INCENTIVE PLAN

The American Paint Horse Association (APHA) recently unveiled plans for Paynt Points, a proposed competition incentive program designed to help grow shows and directly reward exhibitors. In the Paynt Points program, APHA will award cash payouts biannually for all Youth and Amateur points earned at APHA-approved shows.

The proposed Paynt Points structure and goals were unveiled at the 2024 APHA & AjPHA Leadership Gathering in Fort Worth, Texas. CEO David Dellin outlined the program, development strategy and how it can help a majority of Youth and Amateur exhibitors earn cash rewards. The APHA Board of Directors ultimately has final voting discretion on the program, and they’ll cast votes later this year following member feedback.

Paynt Point: Proposed Structure

All Youth & Amateur points earned at APHAapproved shows will earn per-point payouts.

This includes Novice and Walk-Trot categories. All APHA-approved shows, including the APHA World Championship Show, Halter Million, National Shows and zone/regional club competitions, are included.

Paynt Points does not replace Breeders’ Trust.

Biannual payouts will be made to the horse owner/lessee at the time the points were earned.

APHA will guarantee a portion of the Paynt Points purse annually, funded through investments. The remaining purse money is funded by an additional $2 per entry fee charged to all entries in all divisions. The inaugural Paynt Points payout is estimated around $10 per point.

Participation is automatic: No additional opt-ins are required.

Proposed launch date is Jan. 1, 2025. Visit www.apha.com for more information.

WORLD SHOW DATES (IN) PtHA NEWS

The Pinto Horse Association (PtHA) has announced the dates for its 2024 Pinto World Championship Show. Action will begin on June 8 and continue through June 22, in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the Tulsa Fairgrounds.

Saturday, June 8 will start off with the Youth Speech Contest. The following day will continue with the Youth Horse Judging Contest.

Buckles, plaques and more will be handed out as prizes. Both events provide an opportunity for 4H and FFA students to showcase their skills.

The Pinto World Championship classes will begin on Monday, June 10 and and run for 13 days, featuring over 700 classes.

PtHA caters to all levels and ages including youth, amateur, novice and open divisions. Prizes including buckles, ribbons, chairs, rose garlands, and saddles are awarded to world champions, reserve world champions, and high point winners.

The Yellow Rose Futurity is a WCHA sponsored futurity event that will be held within the 2024 Pinto World Championship Show. This event is an All-Breed Futurity, open to offspring with AQHA, APHA, Pinto, PHBA, ARHA, ABRA or ApHC registry. Special Awards to horses registered with Pinto.

The Yellow Rose Futurity will feature eight stakes classes for Non-Professional Exhibitors. They include: Non-Pro Yearling Mares; Non-Pro Yearling Geldings; Non-Pro Yearling Stallions; Non-Pro 2-Year-Old Mares; Non-Pro 2-Year-Old Geldings; NonPro 2-Year-Old Stallions; Non-Pro 3-Year & Over Mares; Non-Pro 3-Years & Over Geldings

Entries must also be sired by stallions nominated into the Yellow Rose Futurity Program. Contact the stallion owner of your entry and work together to get their stallion enrolled.

For additional on the 2024 Pinto World Show, the association or the 2024 Yellow Rose Futurity you can visit www.pinto.org.

Backes

Baker

Baker

Bar

Barger

Barry,

BattMan

Blue

Boo

Boxell,

Briere,

Brinks

Britton,

Burris,

Williams,

Willis

Darci’s

Davis,