Feb/Mar. 2010 Vol 1, No 5
FREE
Letter From The Editor Hello and Happy New Year!! Mane Connection is excited to be ushering in 2010 with Missouri’s equestrian community. We look forward to all of the horse shows, trail rides, events, and news that this year is bound to hold! We know 2009 was tough for many families and businesses in Missouri. Fortunately we all made it through, and now we must keep our heads up, get creative in our businesses and lives, and work torwards a successful 2010. With that creativity comes the need to spread our wings and do things we have not done before. For businesses that means increasing your exposure.
Mane Connection Staff Contacts equine activities in their areas. So businesses and clubs, get creative…make flyers, invest in a Web (In page, join a social networking site, and advertise! Let people know you’re out there.
Editor/Publisher: Jennifer Kruse jkruse@mane-connection.com Financial/Development: Susan Miller smiller@mane-connection.com Information-info@mane-connection.com www.mane-connection.com
For individuals looking to participate or become more active in the equestrian community, let us know what we can do for you. Contact us and let us know what you are looking for.
Mane Connection PO Box 252 Tipton Mo 65081
We hope to see the Missouri equine community unite and prosper through 2010.
Mane Connection is now on Facebook & Twitter! Connect to the Missouri equine community.
Jennifer Kruse Editor/Publisher Mane Connection
Here at Mane Connection, the most frequent complaint we hear is that people are unable to find feed and tack stores, equestrian clubs, or other
Mane Connection is an all-breed publication available for FREE at horse related businesses and events. Mane Connection is also available through the mail with a paid subscription. Mane Connection and staff do not endorse, and are not responsible for the content of any advertisements in this publication. Neither that information or any opinion which may be expressed here constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities. Opinions expressed in any form are not necessarily those of Mane Connection. All copy is subject to the publisher’s approval. The publisher is not responsible for slight changes, or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement or for errors due to phoned, faxed, or handwritten copy. The publisher’s liability for errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement or listing is strictly limited to publication of the corrected advertisement in any subsequent issue. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. ©2010 Mane Connection Mane Connection is designed to serve the Missouri equine industry as an information source and a communication tool for locating horses, products, services, organizations, and events.
A Horse, of Course BY Don Blazer
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ig, big, big. Phooey!
What’s this preoccupation with big horses? “I want a big horse,” says the dude. “Why?” asks the cowboy. “I don’t know,” says the dude, “I’ve always looked up to ‘em.” Does this silliness come from the misconceived, but familiar phrase, “A good horse is better than a good little horse?” Big isn’t better. By definition, big is “large.” Better is “more desirable, more useful, of superior quality.” But better isn’t big unless you desire something exclusively for its size. Let’s look at horses for what they are as individuals, both big and little. Does a big horse carry weight better? Not necessarily. The ability to carry weight is controlled by a number of factors, including length and conformation of the spine, muscle system, conformation and soundness of legs and feet. It’s the little burro who usually gets stuck with packing the baggage. Can a big horse run faster than a smaller one? No. It’s been proven scientifically that it’s not the length of stride which determines speed, but the individual horse’s ability to retract his stride. The horse extends the leg in forward motion, but just before putting his foot on the ground he retracts it. It’s not how quickly he picks them up; it’s how quickly he puts them down. Is the big horse healthier? No. Rapid growth and excessive size contribute significantly to all of the unsoundness caused by concussion. How do you determine the size of a horse? Most references and horsemen use the standard of 14.2 hands as the division between horses and ponies. A “hand” measures 4 inches, so a 14.2 hand horse is 58 inches at the withers. Today a 14.2 hand horse is considered to be small and just about every serious horseman, no matter
Mane Connection Classifieds will return in the spring Have a great winter!
what the breed he prefers will tell you, “I like ‘em big.” It’s even true with pony people. Show records at least on the West Coast, indicate larger ponies usually come out on top in halter classes when height classification lines are crossed. Yet there is nothing to prove good conformation is granted by height. Let’s look at the past, the time when horses really had to work. The knights in their shining armor rode big horses. But the days of the knights were short lived. Unless the dragon stood still or the enemy knight rode straight at you, you were bound to get into trouble. It’s true the big horses carried a lot of weight then, and later, but it’s also true they didn’t do it very well.
They are good at pulling. There’s no doubt that when it comes to hauling cannons, combines or heavy wagons, big horses are best. But there are exceptions. Justin Morgan was only 14 hands, yet he out trotted, out ran and out pulled horses much larger than himself. In addition, he founded a breed, an accomplishment that no big horse has achieved. Actually, all draft horses are descendants of the Tundra Pony, heavily muscled and standing about 13.2 hands. Big isn’t better. It’s just a fad. Unfortunately, there are a lot of little horses being overlooked for the worst reason of all. The looker knows big, but not better. Visit A Horse, Of Course on the web at www. donblazer.com
Sir Walter Gilbey wrote a book entitled, “Small horses in Warfare.” In it, he cited example after example of how horses 13.2 to 14.3, out- performed big horses in nearly every endeavor. He wrote that during the Crimean War, horses-all under 14.3- ridden by Armenian and Bashi Bazouks, consistently performed, “beyond the capabilities of the English Thoroughbred cavalry.” Gibley also told the marches of the British regiment in Sudan, in which the 14 hand horses were “marvels of endurance.” D. Peschkof, a Cossack, left Blagovestchensk, Siberia, in November of 1889. He and his tack weighted 180 pounds, but he rode his pony, which was only 12.3 hands, 5,478 miles in 193 days. The pony, named Seri, crossed Siberia in the winter and averaged 37 miles per day. Incredible! So, if big horses aren’t more durable, quicker, healthier, or better weight carriers, what are they?
Thank You Marie Scott for the Front Page Cover photo! This picture of her horses Red and Casper was taken at home. These two horses are the best of friends and spend every day running, and playing with each other.
Miss Rodeo Missouri Scholarship Pageant
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hen most people think of rodeo queens they imagine a pretty girl, dressed in fancy western clothes, sitting atop a horse in a rodeo arena. While all of that is true, there is so much more to being a rodeo queen.
Please allow me to introduce myself to you. I am Erin Watts, Miss Rodeo Missouri 2010. I am the 24 year old daughter of Brad and Whitney Watts and live in Bloomfield, Mo. I come from a rodeo family and have grown up rodeoing and riding horses and competing in many different rodeo associations. For those not familiar with the Miss Rodeo Missouri Pageant organization, it is a wonderful opportunity for young girls. The pageant promotes growth in the areas of self confidence, sportsmanship, public speaking, and paves the way for future career opportunities. There is also a scholarship program available to Miss and Teen Rodeo Missouri participants which helps further educational opportunities. We have divisions for young ladies of all ages. The division breakdowns are as follows: Miss Rodeo – 19 to 25 years Miss Teen Rodeo – 15 to 19 years Jr. Miss Rodeo – 11 to 15 years Little Miss Rodeo – 6 to 11 years So you see, it’s not just for the older girls! With the younger divisions, we hope to help the younger girls to learn and grow to become a future Miss Rodeo Missouri. This past September I competed at the Missouri state pageant, in the areas of horsemanship, speech, interview, personality and appearance. After the dust had settled, the points tallied up, I was crowned your next Miss Rodeo Missouri. Throughout the next year, I hope to represent the state as an ambassador of rodeo, agricultural and the great people of Missouri. I will have the opportunity to travel all over the state as well as the country representing Missouri at rodeos, schools and numerous other horse related events. In fact I have already begun. This past December, I went to Las Vegas, Nevada to watch and learn about the Miss Rodeo America pageant. While there I cheered on Emma Glaspy, MRM 2009, met the other Ladies-In-Waiting and various other people associated with the pageant. One night I even got to go to a performance of the National Finals Rodeo. In January, I had the opportunity to go to Denver. While there, I shopped around
International Arabian Horse Assoc. “Recipes For Success” Online!
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he IAHA Competition Advisory Committee has "Recipes for Success” available online. The online site provides step-by-step instructions and suggestions to create your own successful equestrian events. The format is easy to use, giving the basics at the beginning of each chapter and a more detailed breakdown towards the end of the chapter. There are plenty of examples contained in these pages in addition to a list of resources and check lists. Please visit http://www. arabianhorses.org/competitions/recipes/default.asp
the Denver Market, where I met with sponsors of Miss Rodeo America, and saw lots of new products for people and horses. I also went to the Denver Livestock Show and Rodeo. At the rodeo, I was able to help run event and sponsor flags, help with the mutton busting, met many new exciting people and I even got to take of few laps around the arena in a real stagecoach! The rodeo in Denver is the first of many events for us “new” queens where we get to meet and begin to form friendships for the year and the rest of our lives. The weekend after Denver, it was back to Columbia, Missouri for the annual Missouri Equine Council event. This weekend was full of different seminars and trainers for the benefit of Missouri horse owners. As you can see I will have a very busy year! I will also be going to the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo in Pocatello, Idaho; Cheyenne Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyoming; the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colorado; as well as many other rodeos and events around the state of Missouri, such as Sedalia, Licking, Cabool, Carthage and others. So I invite you to come along with me as I travel this year. I will continue to update you on my experiences as well pass along information to help prepare you for the life of a rodeo queen. If anyone is interested and would like to learn more about the Miss Rodeo Missouri Pageant please checkout our website at www.missrodeomissouripageant.com or email Sherri Norris, MRM National Director, at mrmpageant@yahoo.com. Also if you would like for Miss Rodeo Missouri and Miss Teen Rodeo Missouri to appear at your event please feel free to contact Sherri for available dates. Thank you and God Bless, Erin Watts Miss Rodeo Missouri 2010
Vital Signs Report
Clipper Training
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BY Rick Lamb
Most horse owners think they know a horse’s normal vital signs and how to identify them…but most don’t have a base line for their horse. Do you? For a free report on vital signs and to hear a horse’s heart beat and gut sounds, go to www.horsecoursesonline.com and click on “free report” in the left hand menu.
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o you know the sound of your horse’s heart beat and gut? And if you do, do you know what they mean in terms of his general health?
A full investigation of the meaning of gut sounds and heart rates is included in both the HorseCoursesOnline.com Stable Management and Equine Health and Disease Management courses. HorseCoursesOnline.com serves more than 4,000 students in 27 countries, providing a Bachelor of Science degree in Equine Studies from Breyer State University or Professional Horse Trainer or Riding Instructor certifications from the Equine Studies Institute.
AQHA Welcomes Dressage as an Official Class
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ressage is now an official AQHA class – one in which you can earn AQHA points, qualify for AQHA Incentive Fund earnings and compete for yearend awards. Beginning at Training Level 4, AQHA dressage classes will be held within existing classes at competitions licensed by the United States Dressage Federation or United States Equestrian Federation. The same USDF-USEF judges will preside over the AQHA classes; the only additional requirement is that the judges must be AQHA members. Exhibitors must also be current members of AQHA, and the horse must be a registered American Quarter Horse. A competition license fee of $85, good for the lifetime of the horse, is also required. The shows must be approved by AQHA at least 60 days in advance. Horses competing in dressage are given scores, expressed in percentages. The Quarter Horse show industry has always been a point-driven system so AQHA has created a conversion table to change dressage scores into AQHA points. To see the conversion table, go to www.aqha.com/showing/ guidetoshowing/dressage.html and click on “frequently asked questions.” In addition to awarding points, AQHA is recognizing the three high-point American Quarter Horses at each of the nine USEF-USDF Regional Championship shows in 2010 and has also created a high-point recognition program for the open, amateur and youth divisions in each level of dressage competition. Amateur and youth eligibility is based on criteria found in the AQHA Handbook of Rules and Regulations.
If you’re interested in getting your American Quarter Horse started in dressage, America’s Horse – AQHA’s membership magazine – initiated a year-long series on Training Level dressage in the January-February 2010 issue. For more information, search for “dressage” on americashorsedaily.com. Included in the search results, you’ll find an excerpt from “The USDF Guide to Dressage,” written by Jennifer O. Bryant and much more. The United States Dressage Federation is giving AQHA members a 10 percent discount on the guide books. Visit www.aqha.com/showing/guidetoshowing/ dressage.html to find the offer code and link. Enter the code at checkout. AQHA news and information is a service of AQHA publications. For more information on The American Quarter Horse Journal, The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal or America’s Horse, visit www.aqha.com/magazines.
hen you're teaching a horse to accept electric clippers, don't plan on actually clipping him for a while.
Horses hate electric clippers, and it's not because they prefer that wild and woolly look. They're frightened by the sound and the vibration. So that's where trainer Clinton Anderson focuses his desensitization efforts. When I'm teaching a horse to accept clippers, the last thing I'm trying to do is clip him. See, it's a cat and mouse game. If a horse thinks you're trying to clip him, that's when he'll act the worst because he knows what you want. All I'm trying to do is get the horse used to the vibration of the clippers and the noise of the clippers. Once I get those tow things established, the actual clipping of the hair usually is very, very simple. Sound like a roundabout way to deal with the issue? It is! We're suppressing our straightline, predator-type thinking and sneaking up on the problem, like a horse would.
Therapeutic Horsemanship Wentzville Offers “Horses for Heroes” Program
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hroughout America’s history, our freedom has been bought and paid for by our brave men and women in the military. These service men, women, and their families have sacrificed so that we could enjoy the freedoms we all cherish. Therapeutic Horsemanship “TH Horses For Heroes” Program is designed to honor our service personnel’s and veteran’s commitments and sacrifices by “giving back,” providing them with therapeutic services they have earned.
accomplishments and success in other areas of the riders’ lives as well.
Program participants include wounded service personnel and veterans with challenges such as: head and spinal cord injuries, amputation, auditory and visual impairments, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
TH “Horses For Heroes” provides an array of service offerings to align with the needs and desires of the riders and their families. The offerings include: Hippotherapy which is an equine-assisted therapeutic approach to assist individuals in developing physical skills to increase balance and muscle control on and off the horse and to elevate self-esteem through personal accomplishment; Bonding with Horses which is an equine-facilitated psychotherapy offering that provides an interactive approach for riders to address behavioral and emotional issues they may be facing; and, Sports Riding which focuses on developing horseback riding knowledge and skills. In addition, family members can participate in the Gaitway Riding Program to engage in riding lessons on their own or with other family members.
The benefits of therapeutic riding are well documented. Because the horse’s gait is similar to the human walk, riding strengthens and supports the natural motion of the spine and pelvis. This repetitive motion helps balance, coordination, overall strength, and muscle tone as it gently mobilizes the joints. In addition, riding and interacting with the horse have been shown to foster self-confidence and enhance personal motivation. The freedom and independence riders experience astride a horse act as a catalyst for
Therapeutic Horsemanship (TH) is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected therapeutic riding programs. Founded in 1975, Therapeutic Horsemanship is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and is nationally accredited by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).
Volunteers are a critical element in the successful implementation of this program. TH “Horses For Heroes” is built on the very successful model of “soldiers helping soldiers.” It leverages the camaraderie between service men and women to provide a healing environment for our riders. We need the support of active or veteran service members to assist with lessons. Volunteers are the direct link between the instructor’s or therapist’s guidance to the rider and the achievement of personal therapy goals with the aid of the horse. TH will provide all volunteers the appropriate training so it is not necessary for our volunteers to have previous horse experience. It is our mission to assist America’s wounded service personnel and veterans to enhance and reestablish their lives by providing equine-assisted therapy programs for them and their family members. For additional information about Therapeutic Horsemanship “Horses For Heroes” Program, to become a rider or volunteer, or to provide financial support, please contact Sandy Rafferty at 636332-4940 or at sraffot@gmail.com.
FREE Basic Horsemanship Clinic on Equestrians With Disabilities Given by AQHA Professional Horsemen
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rom 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, the American Quarter Horse Association’s (AQHA) Professional Horsemen in conjunction with Therapeutic Horsemanship Wentzville will present a free clinic on the AQHA Equestrians With Disabilities Classes at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis, MO. While the AQHA Equestrians With Disabilities classes are designed for individuals with physical or mental disabilities, the basic horsemanship skills taught at this clinic are the foundation for all riders. Therefore, this clinic should be viewed as a learning experience for all equestrians. The clinicians will preview each class, work through the AQHA designated patterns and provide guidance as to how to prepare to compete in these classes, with emphasis on the horsemanship aspect of each class. In addition, the clinicians will provide information on how to select the “right” registered quarter horse; one that will support therapeutic riding as well as perform for the competition team. The Equestrians With Disabilities competition classes are: • Showmanship • Trail Horse (walk and jog) • Western Horsemanship (walk and jog) • Western Horsemanship (walk, jog, and lope) • Hunt Seat Equitation (walk and trot) • Hunt Seat Equitation (walk, trot, and canter) The newest AQHA approved competition (Equestrians With Disabilities) is open to individuals with physical or mental disabilities and provides an arena for everyone to enjoy the rewards of hard work, determination and perseverance.
Ma the Many therapeutic utic riding idin centers nt ha have registered egiste d quarter te ho horses and nd several al centers already participate in the AQHA Equestrians With Disabilities classes. For those riding centers that already participate in these classes, this clinic will provide an opportunity for both the exhibitor and the instructor to view each class as it is presented by the clinician, to “brush up” on their horsemanship skills, and a chance to learn from the Professional Horsemen who actually judge these classes. For riding centers that currently don’t have a competition team or a team that competes in AQHA classes, this will give the riders and the instructors an opportunity to learn from the “ground up.” This is especially true for classes like showmanship and trail that might be new to some attendees. Continued support from AQHA Professional Horsemen is only a click away at www.aqha.com. For additional information regarding this clinic please contact Sandy Huebner at 636-474-9308 or online at SHuebner@prodigy.net.
Big Piney Trail BY Laura Vonk
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verybody always asks me which trail is my favorite. That’s a hard question to answer because I have different trails that are my favorites for different reasons. I guess, if I’d have to pick any one trail, it would be the Big Piney Trail in Paddy Creek Wilderness Area. If you enjoy a leisurely paced ride where you take the time to look all around you as you mosey along, this is the trail for you. . Located a little over 45 miles south of Rolla, this trail has some of the most interesting and unusual things to see as you ride along. Except for its total length of 17 miles, this isn’t a particularly challenging trail. It could take a full 10 hours or so to ride, but there is a cut through trail towards the middle of the trail if you want to shorten it. There is a pretty steep hill to climb or descend, depending on your direction of travel, a few creeks to cross, and downfall to negotiate, but other than that, nothing that a seasoned or well trained young horse couldn’t handle in stride. I love this trail for all its odd and unusual sights. There are trees that have been twisted in a way that makes them look like they were caught in a tornado. There are trees that are bent over to the
side, and then bend up again. Although I’ve seen many of these trees on several different trails over the years, the biggest one I’ve seen is here. It looks big enough for a whole family to sit across it. Other interesting trees are the toilet seat tree (it has a toilet seat shaped growth at its base) and the tire tree (it is girdled by an actual tire). Another fascinating sight is Indian Head Rock. There is large rock outcropping, you can only see if riding the trail in a counter clockwise direction, which is shaped like an Indian chief in full war bonnet head dress. It looks totally different from the other side so many people pass it without ever noticing. A portion of this trail is reminiscent of my trail riding in the mountains of Colorado and Montana. It has all the beauty but none of the fear of riding right on cliff edges. This pine covered cliff is so high up; you’re looking down at the birds flying, but the trail is well back from the cliff’s edge so it’s comfortable for the height skittish rider. This area is beautiful, smells fantastic, and rivals similar settings in Colorado and Montana. The good news is: camping is allowed. The bad news is: it is primitive camping only. There is a watering pond for your horse, but no drinking water or latrines for the rider. However, an overnight stay in this area will provide additional time to enjoy the sights of this, my favorite trail. As always, for more information, pictures, and maps, visit my website at: www.motrailblazing. com
Indian Head Rock
Trouble on the Trail Ride BY Patricia Titchenal
It was easy to expect, after all the time you spent working with this mare, that this trail ride would be a success. The relaxing ride among your friends you expected did not occur, so it is normal to feel fearful about the next trail ride.
Given the rain this year, we had little opportunity to ride out on the trail. In early November we finally had a dry spell and I got with some friends and we were off to the trail.
The equine factor: You and Abby apparently have a great bond. The statement that it takes less and less time to prepare her using the groundwork indicates that she is just going through the motions; she does not have to even think about this routine. Abby is very comfortable in her surroundings. I assume Abby is stalled and may possibly be a lone horse. Horses are herd animals and prey animals. Studies have shown that when we do not allow them adequate time to communicate with other members in the herd, the part of the brain that causes them to spook and go into flight mode does not get stimulated. When Abby was removed from her “Safe environment”, she did what was instinctive and became a prey animal. This was due in part to not knowing how to handle stimulus of the flight mode of the brain, but was compounded by your own nervousness. You and Abby are the herd, she looks to you as leader or alpha, so when you became nervous it was really easy for her to fall apart.
That morning was picture perfect, Abby and I went through our routine and she loaded like a champ, we drove just a 1/2 hour to get to the local park. By the time we arrived, Abby was dripping wet and was a total mess. I unloaded her, began to go through our groundwork, and as I expected, she settled right down.
Finding a solution: The old saying that a horse is not finished until you have endured a lot of wet saddle blankets is true. Groundwork and riding in the arena is much like taking an English class, learning how to spell, and punctuate, but never being assigned an essay.
My friends saddled their horses and chided me a little for doing my preparation. I was nervous as we started out but was excited and thought we could handle it. Just a few minutes into the ride Abby became very nervous and started jigging all over the place. I had no idea what set her off but my friends assured me that I should just ride her through it and she would soon tire and settle back down. Abby did not settle down. She began to side pass and was just an absolute mess. She was on high alert and none of my riding tools worked.
Due to busy schedules and lack of available terrain to ride on, groundwork and arena riding seems to be our only outlet. However there are some steps you can take before you and Abby venture out on the trail.
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: I have had Abby for five years. We have a great bond, and we can do nearly anything in an arena. Over the past three years we have attended several workshops and I have learned to do ground work with her to get her prepared for riding. In my routine with her, I get her out of the stall, take her to the arena and we work together on obstacles until she lowers her head and lets me know that she is mentally prepared to move on.
Against my better judgment, I traded horses with one of my friends. For a moment Abby seemed to be fine but by now all the other horses seemed to be on high alert as well. Abby exploded, threw my friend and caused a chain reaction among the other 4 horses. It was a mess. My friends wanted to get back up and ride but I went ahead and walked my horse back to the trailer. They told me that was a mistake and that I should ride her until she settled. Leading Abby back to the trailer was like flying a four legged 1000 pound kite! All the groundwork we had learned was ineffective and it took me over 40 minutes to get her back in the trailer. After three years of preparation, I was sure we were ready for this ride. I am afraid to try again but I don’t want to spend all of my time with my horse in an arena. What’s worse, it seems to have put some distance between me and my friends. What can I do with Abby to combat our trouble with Trail riding? A: Your situation is more common than you realize. Let’s break this down. The situation as a whole: Groundwork is a great avenue to prepare your horse physically and mentally for riding, but it cannot replace the power of exposure. The weather conditions, here in the Midwest, have been extreme for the past two years and made it nearly impossible to finish a horse. Abby has a routine in the arena that is safe a predictable; the two of you feel safe there. She was just not ready for this kind of a trail ride. It was Abby’s lack of exposure that caused things to come apart. The good in what happened: While you and Abby were unable to tap into your foundation and the ride did not go as expected, it does not sound like anyone was hurt. The old adage that you should ride a horse through difficulties and not let them win is not entirely wrong. However, choosing to get down and walk her back was a good decision since you were not comfortable riding her through this. I know it took a lot of courage to step away from the crowd. The human factor:
I recommend that your horse be allowed to live among a herd. If another horse is not an option, other animals such as a goat, dog or even some free range chickens will help Abby. By doing this you are allowing Abby to keep her mind sharp and do what is natural for her. It is also a good idea to keep her outside, especially at night, as much as possible. Change your groundwork routine; mix it up. Take some steps to get her away from the arena. If there are no trails available where you live, ride her from the arena to the trailer, up and down the driveway or just about anywhere that takes her away from the norm. Take every opportunity to ride her in new areas. If you feel apprehensive about trail riding, take a few lessons to sharpen your riding skills; even Olympic riders have a grounds-person or a coach to keep them sharp. After you have re-established your riding skills, take a few trail riding lessons on a solid trail riding horse. If you still feel unsure, it would be worth the money to find someone to ride Abby on a few trail rides with seasoned trail riding horses and riders. After Abby has had some exposure, you may want to ride along on a different horse so you will see how she responds and reacts to things. Finally, and this is the perhaps the most difficult; before you trail ride again, find people to ride with who share your concepts about riding. I am impressed by your dedication to your friend Abby. I know that in time the two of you will be able to reach your trail riding goals. I look forward to hearing how things are coming along. If you have any questions as you work on this quest, feel free to e-mail us at www.RiderRecovery.com
Recap: The MO Equine Coucil 2010 Horse Celebration
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n January 22nd and 23rd, 2010 the Boone County Fairgrounds in Columbia Missouri opened their doors to the 21st annual Missouri Equine Council Horse Celebration. The 2010 event surpassed expectations. With an economy in turmoil, many feared that the public and vendors would not participate. But the event hosted a slew of fantastic booths from Mclaughlins Western Store, Ridin’ High Tack Supply, Backcountry Horsemen, Brushy Creek Lodge and Resort, Show Me Circuit Horseshow, and much, much more. The featured clinician this year was Kerry Kuhn who was described as EXCELLENT, giving lots of information to the crowd and riders in a well thought out and informative way. Other highlights from this year were the Rawhide and Dusty Show, a huge hit with the kiddos, and the Show Me Back Country Horsemen had a great display with the Leave No Trace information and the camp tent. This year boasted some great competition for the Ultimate Equestrian Challenge TM! The three trainers participating this year were Steve Lantvit, Jeff Woodberry, and Mike Rogers. The winner was Jeff Woodberry from Eugene Missouri, beating out the second place finisher by just one point! The Missouri Equine Council, Inc. has some pretty exciting changes for next year by taking the current two day event and going to a jam packed three day extravaganza! This switch should be an exciting change for both vendors and the attending public. For more information on the Missouri Equine Council, Inc visit their website at www.mo-equine.org
Setting Goals in Showing By Rick Lamb
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f you're going to reach your big goals, the experts say you've got to set smaller goals along the way.
All productive activity requires goal setting as a way of motivating, directing, and measuring your efforts. Sports consultant Kirsten Farris coaches world champion-level riders, and she says you need three different types of goals. The outcome goal is kind of your big, dream goal, which happens about twelve months out. And then what you want to do is break that up into what we call process goals, which are really the milestones. And then performance goals, which really help you determine what you need to do in order to reach your process goal. If your outcome goal is winning a world championship, one process goal might be getting qualified to go to the world show, and one performance goal might be to always nail your lead changes.
Online Equine Photo Course
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he “how’s” and “why’s” of equine photography for the horse lover, the wantto-be-photographer and “the professional” is the latest equine study course being offered by www.HorseCoursesOnline.com
Award-winning equine photographer, Lynette Smith, introduces you to digital cameras, shutter speeds, light readings, panning, posing, editing and storing equine photographs. If you’ve never used a digital camera, or you’ve been using one for years, you’re going to get the “how-to’s” and “insider” tips and tricks for taking great pictures of horses and riders. Smith’s talents are reflected in her creative equine portraits and dynamic action shots which capture spontaneous and candid images of those special relationships between horse and rider. Equine Photography is an elective course which earns credit toward an accredited Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies degree or certification as a Professional Horse Trainer or Riding Instructor. HorseCoursesOnline.com is the worldwide leader in online equine study programs for colleges and universities, serving more than 4,000 students in 27 countries. The seven-lesson course begins with an introduction to photography. Lesson 2 is all about the camera while lesson 3 defines exposure. Lesson 4 is the “art of seeing” and lesson 5 helps the student define her style. Lesson 6 teaches the setting of the pose, while the final lesson teaches the capturing of motion and the storage of images. The course description and outline can be found at www.horsecoursesonline. com along with Smith’s faculty biography and complete details on the equine study programs. It is not necessary to enroll in courses other than the photography course. Registration can be completed online.
Horse Arthritis Treatment IRAP By Holly Clanahan www.americashorsedaily.com
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OUR SPEED DEMON HAD BEEN SETTING THE WORLD ON FIRE, but as time took its toll, his double-burners lost some of their fuel. Osteoarthritis was to blame. Joint injections worked well, for a while. Then your vet suggested something called IRAP. If you’re unfamiliar with it, the acronym stands for interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein, and it’s a promising anti-arthritic protein that can be administered through gene therapy. Here’s how it works: Osteoarthritis – marked by damaged cartilage surrounding a joint – causes pain and inflammation. Interleukin-1 is a chemical normally secreted by cells as part of the inflammatory response, but it can accelerate the deterioration of joint cartilage. IRAP binds to interleukin-1 and prevents it from binding to – and attacking – other tissues. “By blocking this interaction, we hope we can decrease pain and inflammation in the joint, creating an environment more conducive to healing and function,” says Dr. Brent A. Hague. “The response to treatment is variable and largely depends on the degree of degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) present at the time of therapy. Joints with primarily synovitis (inflammation of the synovial lining) or mild DJD respond the best,” says Dr. Hague, who practices out of Oakridge Equine Hospital at Edmond, Oklahoma. David Frisbie, D.V.M., Ph.D., Diplomate ACVS, is an associate professor and researcher at Colorado State University has researched the procedure. He recommends it for horses whose joint problems have been treated with intraarticular injections of corticosteroids but have either become unresponsive or never were responsive. He sees other practitioners who use IRAP as a first line of defense, and says, “I don’t have any problem with that. If people want to spend the money for that, more power to them.” An IRAP procedure might cost $1,200-$1,500, Dr. Frisbie estimated. He prefers to treat a horse with corticosteroid injections first, before moving to the more expensive IRAP, which he says isn’t necessary for every case of arthritis. “We know that all arthritis isn’t the same, and some cases don’t respond to steroids,” he says. “That’s a clear indication that we need to use something else.” If IRAP is deemed necessary for your horse, here’s what will happen: First, some of your horse’s blood is drawn into a syringe that contains etched glass beads. The beads, Dr. Hague says, stimulate production of the antagonist protein. Next, the blood is incubated at 37 degrees C for 18-24 hours, and then the syringes are centrifuged to separate out the serum, which is rich in IRAP, Dr. Hague says. The serum is filtered, then injected into the affected joint, typically once a week for three weeks. “It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent,” Dr. Frisbie adds. He has seen no ill effects from the procedure, aside from the risks involved any time a joint capsule is pierced with a needle. IRAP has been used in humans, especially to treat back pain, he says.
Dr. Frisbie says that although IRAP has become shorthand for the soup created from the incubated blood, there might be other factors at play besides the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein, and research in this area is ongoing. “There’s definitely an increase in IRAP,” Dr. Frisbie says, “but we don’t know if there are other good things that go up even more; we don’t know if there are other bad things that go up more.” Considerable research has been done by Dr. Thomas Weinberger, a German veterinarian whom Dr. Frisbie says is a pioneer in the field. On the Web site of Arthrex Vet Systems (a distributor of the special syringes), Dr. Weinberger says IRAP “stopped the progression of joint disease in horses,” and he details a study that shows promising results. Included in the study were 10 German warmbloods with chronic lameness of the coffin joint. In the past, these horses had all been given joint injections of hyaluronic acid and/ or corticosteroids. Other treatments included rest, orthopedic shoeing, controlled exercise and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The horses were all tested with an anesthesia of the coffin joint to ensure that was where their problems originated. They received three IRAP therapies, every 10 to 14 days. Fifty-five days after the first injection, seven horses showed no lameness at all with five to 10 minutes of trotting. Two horses showed a Grade 1 lameness, which means that the lameness was difficult to observe and not consistently apparent, regardless of circumstances. One horse showed a Grade 2 lameness, which means that its lameness was apparent only under certain circumstances (such as going on hard ground or while circling). This horse had begun the study with a much more severe lameness – one that was obvious at the walk – and had been lame for 48 weeks. As was done in this study, Dr. Frisbie says it is crucial to properly diagnose the lameness – so the attending veterinarian will know which joint to treat. In some instances – such as stifle joints that have softtissue problems, in addition to osteoarthritis – Dr. Frisbie opts for stemcell therapy.
MFA Inc. Unites with Alltech for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™
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lltech, a global leader in animal health and nutrition, has named MFA Incorporated as an Official Animal Heath and Nutrition Partner for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010™. MFA joins more than 60 global partners who have united with title sponsor, Alltech, in a collaborative effort to promote optimal animal health and well-being in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, the pinnacle of equestrian sport. “MFA Incorporated is widely revered by farmers and ranchers in the Midwest for the reliability and quality of its feed products and services,” said Dr. Tyler Bramble, western division manager for Alltech, USA. “MFA has been a partner and friend of Alltech’s for more than 20 years, and it is a special honor today to further strengthen that bond by welcoming them aboard as a partner for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.” “Alltech has been an industry leader in probiotics, nutriceuticals and other feed additives. We are proud to incorporate Alltech products in our feed formulations for healthy pets, horses, and livestock,” said Dr. Alan Wessler, vice president of feed for MFA. “We are very excited to further cement our relationship and have the opportunity now to play a role in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.” MFA Incorporated, a regional farm supply and marketing cooperative, has served the livestock industry since its formation in 1914. From feeds and animal health to marketing services and technical advice, MFA has structured its offerings to help farmers and ranchers provide for their animals. “MFA Incorporated is built upon a solid commitment to its farmer/owners – providing quality products and services, embracing honesty in business and offering professional advice farmers can depend on,” said Dr. Wessler. Serving more than 45,000 in Missouri and adjacent states, MFA has 107 Agri Services Centers, 25 locally owned affiliates with 23 branch locations, and 400 independent dealers. The purpose of the Alltech Animal Health and Nutrition Partnership Program is to identify key players who can serve as multipliers of the message of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. This strategic partnership with Alltech includes collaborative sales, marketing, and advertising activities as well as hospitality opportunities in the build-up to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, the most prestigious and celebrated equestrian competition in the world. The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held in Lexington, KY, USA from September 25 – October 10, 2010, are the world championships of the eight disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Held outside of Europe for the first time, the 16-day competition involving 600 riding competitors and 700 horses from more than 60 countries is expected to be attended by as many as 600,000 spectators and viewed on television by an international audience exceeding 460 million people. Tickets have already been sold to enthusiasts in all 50 U.S. states and 44 countries. For more information on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and to purchase tickets while they are still available, visit www.alltechfeigames. com.
Growing Up Equestrian
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ow many parents can say their 13 or 16 year old son or daughter chose to spend the majority of their weekend with them instead of at the mall hanging out with their friends? Horse show parents have the privilege of being able to raise their hands and tell you without embellishment that not only did they spend an entire Friday night with their kiddos driving them to a horse show, but they also spent all day Saturday and Sunday watching them work and groom horses, muck stalls, and riding warm ups in the practice arena before bringing nerves and horse together in the show ring. These parents’ kids are growing up equestrian. Why would parents spend time and money raising their children to be equestrian? In a world where many children suffer from childhood obesity, and are increasingly exposed to violence and sexuality in the media, the equestrian world offers a community that promotes stability, responsibility, and commitment. These are the very things every parent strives to instill in their kids, so they will be aptly prepared for dealing with the pressures of this complicated world. One weekend in January, I had the pleasure of meeting Kayla Wilkerson, who is the International Buckskin Horse Association’s Miss Buckskin World 2009. Kayla is a bright, charismatic, well spoken young lady that any parent would be proud to call “daughter.” I sat down and spoke with Kayla to discuss her upbringing in the world of horses, and to see what the equestrian sport has done for her. My time with Kayla confirmed my beliefs and renewed my commitment to ensure my own children grow up equestrian. Kayla’s first horse was a white Shetland pony named Snowball, which she described to me with great fondness. “She did it all.… Me and my sister rode her in the pleasure classes and the games, and she even pulled a little red two wheel cart. She did have her ‘pony’ side and liked to lay down on us and drag us under branches out in the pasture,” Kayla said. Kayla recalled attending horse shows where she competed against fancier, more expensive horses, but was still able to come home a winner. Kayla has since moved on from Snowball and now rides some very impressive horses. Hearing her talk about them you know they are a part of her family and a part of who she is. Kayla became involved in the International Buckskin Horse Association (www. IBHA.net) in 2003 and was crowned Miss Buckskin World in 2009. At 23 Kayla has received her bachelor degree in business from Columbia College with a triple major in marketing, management and human resources. Currently Kayla is completing graduate studies for a MBA in business administration. Kayla credits much of her success to her family, and attributes much of her drive to what she has learned from working with horses. “As far as horses, I want to be able to just ride and enjoy them; I can’t imagine my life without coming home to a couple of horses out in the pasture. It just wouldn’t feel like home.” The opportunity Kayla’s parents gave her to grow up equestrian is a priceless gift that has and will continue to pay dividends throughout her life. Horse ownership and participation in equine activities provides life lessons and values that individuals carry with them their entire lives. So parents find your child a Snowball and keep ‘em riding!
About the Mid Rivers Saddle Club
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he Mid Rivers Saddle Club puts on a series of 7 shows that models the breed showing experience, with some good old fashion fun thrown in, at a price everyone can afford. Our classes include Halter, Showmanship, English Pleasure, Equitation, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, and Trail. We also have 4 divisions for every level of rider: Novice (any age level), Walk Trot 13 and under, Youth 18 and Under, and Adult. We also have Open Classes and Jack Pot Classes. And …..each of our divisions include walk trot classes. Most of our shows have some type of theme that includes a fun class or some other fun activates. Some of the themes to look for this year are the Blue Bunny show (sponsored by Blue Bunny Ice Cream), the Think Pink show where we raise money for breast caner research, and the ever popular Fall Classic were we give out World Show quality ribbons to each of our class Champions and Reserve Champions. Just take a look at the Mid Rives Saddle Club’s photo gallery on the web site for hundreds of photos. Each year we also have an awards banquet. We award High Point and Reserve High Point awards for each of our 4 divisions and the top 5 placers in each class receive awards. In 2009 we hosted 120 guests, awarded 13 buckels and gave away over $7000.00 in awards and prizes. We also have one Fun Show to sponsor Therapeutic Horsemanship in Wentzville Missouri. This is just a good old fashioned fun show. You can look for classes
like egg and spoon, flag race, musical stalls, and cross rail hunter as well as some pleasure classes. It is so much fun! The kids just love it and we raise money for a great cause. For more information on Mid Rivers Saddle Club please visit www. midriverssaddleclub.com Congratulations to everyone who participated in the 2009 show season. Everyone did a tremendous job! All Around High Point Champions Janet Deckman: All Around High Point Champion - Adult Leslie Miller: All Around High Point Champion – Youth Jenny Preuss: All Around High Point Champion – Walk Trot Kathy Steckle: All Around High Point Champion – Novice All Around Reserve High Point Champions Mary Stocker: Reserve All Around High Point – Adult Maggie Mathews: Reserve All Around High Point – Youth Kelsey Griffith: Reserve All Around High Point – Walk Trot Blaise Brocard: Reserve All Around High Point – Novice
Horse Shows
Sales
Feb. 20 Fun & Frolic Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com
Feb. 17 Archie Horse Auction Archie, MO
Feb. 21 Windy Acres Arena Speed Show Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565 Feb. 27 & 28 Irish Fox Hunter/Jumper Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com Mar. 4 thru 7 Missouri Arabian Horse Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com Mar. 10 thru 14 March To The Arch QH Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com Mar. 17 thru 21 Equine Productions H/J Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com Mar. 21 Windy Acres Arena Speed Show Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565 Mar. 24 thru 28 Equine Productions H/J Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com
Feb. 20 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 Feb. 20 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 Feb. 20 Lincoln County Livestock Auction Silex, MO Feb. 27 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 Feb. 27 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360 Mar. 3 Archie Horse Auction Archie, MO Mar. 4 Wright County Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 417-926-4136 Mar. 6 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 Mar. 6 Lolli Brothers Horse Auction Macon, MO 660-385-2516 Mar 6 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813
Apr. 4 Windy Acres Arena Speed Show Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565
Mar 13 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769
Apr. 10 & 11 MO Ranch Horse Spring Kick-Up Show National Equestrian Center, Lake St. Louis, MO 636-561-8080 or thenationalequestriancenter.com
Mar 13 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360
Apr. 24 FMSFQHRA Horse Show Fischer Stables, Sedalia, MO 660-829-4677
Mar. 17 Archie Horse Auction Archie, MO Mar. 20 Puxico Horse Sale 573-222-6229
Mar. 20 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO Mar. 20 Lincoln County Livestock Auction Silex, MO Mar. 26 Springfield Livestock Auction Springfield, MO springfieldlivestockcenter.com or 417-869-9500 Mar. 27 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769
Feb. 24 Barrel Racing Exhibition & Jackpot Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-358-2370
Feb. 15 Team Roping Pick and Draw Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-358-2370
Feb. 26 thru 28 Flickerwood Showdown XI Barrel Series Flickerwood Arena, Jackson, MO 573-243-3876
Feb. 16 Team Roping Practice Lucky J Arena, Carthage,MO 417-358-2370
Mar. 20 MRBRA Flickerwood Showdown XI Barrel Series Flickerwood Arena, Jackson, MO 573-243-3876
Cutting
Mar. 27 Owensville Horse Auction Owensville, MO 573-437-5360
Feb. 18, 19, 20 Ozark Mountain Cutting Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-540-4852
Apr. 1 Wright County Horse Auction Mountain Grove, MO 417-926-4136
Feb. 27 Windy Acres Jackpot Team Sorting Ranch Series Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565
Apr. 3 Puxico Horse Sale Puxico, MO 573-222-6229 Apr. 3 Lolli Brothers Horse Auction Macon, MO 660-385-2516 Apr. 3 Rolla Horse Sale St. James, MO 573-265-8813 Apr. 7 Archie Horse Auction Archie, MO Apr. 10 Farmington Horse Sale Farmington, MO 573-756-5769 Apr. 10 Owensville Horse Auction 573-437-5360
Trail Rides Mar. 27 ACTHA Benefit Ride at Eagle Ranch Collins, MO 573-836-0052
Barrel Races Feb. 17 Barrel Racing Exhibition & Jackpot Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-358-2370
Mar. 27 Windy Acres Jackpot Team Sorting Ranch Series Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565 Apr. 10 Windy Acres RSNC Team Sorting Windy Acres Arena, Sullivan, MO 573-259-5565
Rodeos Feb. 27 CTEC Rodeo Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-540-4852
Feb. 22 Team Roping Pick and Draw Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-358-2370 Feb. 23 Team Roping Practice Lucky J Arena, Carthage, MO 417-358-2370
Special Events Feb. 19 Cowboy Mounted Shooting Practice Midway Expo Center, Columbia, MO 660-841-5351 or 573-881-3833 Feb. 25 Cowboy Mounted Shooting Lucky J. Arena 417-860-0871 Mar 5 thru 7 Reis Ranch Clinic Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, MO 417-833-2660 or 800-356-8255 March 12 thru 14 HorseFest Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, MO 417-833-2660 or 800-356-8255 Mar. 13 St. Clair Saddle Club Coggins Clinic St. Clair, MO 636-583-3066
Feb. 26 & 27 PRCA Professional Rodeo Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia, MO 660-827-8150 or 800-422-3247
Mar. 19 Cowboy Mounted Shooting Practice Midway Expo Center, Columbia, MO 660-841-5351 or 573-881-3833
Mar. 6 Flickerwood Youth Rodeo Flickerwood Arena, Jackson, MO 573-243-3876
Mar. 27 & 28 Cowboy Mounted Shooting Flickerwood Arena, Jackson, MO 573-243-3876
Mar. 26 & 27 Cowboy Classic Rodeo Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, MO 417-833-2660 or 800-356-8255
Apr. 10 Sullivan Saddle Club Coggins Clinic/ Tack Swap/Nutrition Clinic Sullivan, MO www.sullivansaddleclubsite.com
Apr. 10 & 11 Flickerwood Youth Rodeo Finals Flickerwood Arena, Jackson, MO 573-243-3876
Apr. 10 & 11 Show Me Mounted Shooters Competition Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia, MO 660-827-8150 or 800-422-3247
Ropings