Connecticut Horse September/October 2016

INTERSCHOLASTIC EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION ISSUE!

CONN EC T ICUT

September/October 2016 connhorse.com $4

HORSE

INTERSCHOLASTIC EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION

ALISON PATRICELLI

NUTMEG STATE TEAMS

TAKING THE REINS

page 8

page 18

CAVALIER FARM

NUTMEG STATE RIDERS’ IEA ADVICE

ENHANCED RIDING AND HORSEMANSHIP page 16

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS page 24

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September/October 2016

contents

September/October 2016

columns 20 Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center

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22 Mansfield Hollow

Ron Schwane Photography

Scott Porter

Lend a Hoof

State Park Trail Guide

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24 Nutmeg State Riders’ IEA Advice Questions and Answers

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with Your IEA Draw Horse for a Competitive Edge

courtesy of Alison Patricelli

Toni Leland

28 Connect Mindful Connections

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in every issue

features 8

Interscholastic Equestrian Association Nutmeg State Teams

14

Tessa Molloy IEA National Champion Youth Spotlight

16

Cavalier Farm

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From the Publisher

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Your Letters

Enhanced Riding and Horsemanship

23

This Olde Horse

Farm Feature

32

Overherd: News in Our Community

40

Partners

42

Nutmeg State Happenings

Taking the Reins

43

Connecticut Events Calendar

Horseperson Feature

47

The Neighborhood

48

Advertiser Index

49

Is This Your Horse?

18 Alison Patricelli

Connecticut Horse

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From the Publisher

W

elcome to our first annual Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Issue! I’m excited about this edition, as I’ve seen firsthand how

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being on an IEA team builds confidence and provides terrific showing opportunities to riders who don’t own a horse. Many of my 4-H’ers ride on IEA teams and I’ve had the pleasure of attending countless IEA shows.

Mortality & Major Medical . Farm Packages Horse Associations and Clubs . Directors & Officers Horse Shows, Clinics, Events . Expo Coverage Instructor Liability . Payment Plans We will provide you with competitive rates, educated service, and help substantiate values.

Terri Ray (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com

Eight-year-old Eric Uscilla and North American Spotted Draft Horse Dixie won the Connecticut Horse Youth Award at the Goshen Stampede. Want a free Connecticut Horse Youth Award for your upcoming event? Email award@connhorse.com.

I enjoy volunteering in the IEA community — designing the Region 7 and 12 Semi Finals show program and donating a special sportsmanship award for Zone 1 Finals every year.

Additionally, did you know we send free packets of 10 magazines to IEA teams in Connecticut? Would you like your team to receive a packet of magazines six times a year? (4-H Clubs and Pony Clubs are also invited to receive the packets.)

Email packets@connhorse.com.

We also offer free Connecticut Horse Youth Awards to every competition in the state. To learn more about these awards andto find the link to request one for your upcoming event, go to connhorse.com and click on COMMUNITY. We’re here to keep Nutmeg State equine enthusiasts informed and to support the equestrian community.

Stephanie Connecticut Horse

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CON N EC T ICU T

HORSE vol. 2, no. 2 September/October 2016

ISSN 2378-5721

99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (860) 391-9215 • fax: (413) 268-0050 • connhorse.com Connecticut Horse magazine is an independently owned and -operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for the Nutmeg State.

HAMDEN Michael Benedetti 203.248.1100 M.Benedetti@farm-family.com LISBON Dean Roussel & Robert Stearns 860.376.2393 Dean_Roussel@farm-family.com Robert_Stearns@farm-family.com SOUTHINGTON Michele Rosa 860.329.0103 Michele_Rosa@farm-family.com VERNON Bo Muschinsky 860.875.3333 BMuschinsky@farm-family.com

© 2016 Connecticut Horse All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this magazine or portions thereof in any form without prior written permission.

publisher Stephanie Sanders • steph@connhorse.com • (413) 268-3302 editor Toni Leland

copy editor Kathaleen Emerson

feature writers Nicole Birkholzer, Andrea Bugbee, Sally L. Feuerberg Sean Hogan, Esq., Toni Leland, Stacey Stearns contributors Christine Church, Jessica Correia, Patti Crowther, Joan Davis Allison Forsyth, Karena Garrity, Raymond Hill, Suzy Lucine county desk liaisons Fairfield and New Haven Counties Sally L. Feuerberg . sallyf623@gmail.com . (203) 339-0357 Hartford County Kaitlyn Schroyer . keschroyer@gmail.com . (413) 519-0079 Litchfield County Chauntelle Masslon . oakridgefarm12@gmail.com . (860) 967-5871 Tolland County Christine Church . christine.church@sbcglobal.net . (860) 748-9757 Windham County Jessica Correia . j17correia@gmail.com . (774) 263-6198 advertising Main Office: ads@connhorse.com . (413) 268-3302 (voice or text)

IEA rider Hannah Porter and Waldo.

Scott Porter photo.

Connecticut Horse is printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper.

the fine print The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Connecticut Horse staff or independent contractors, nor can they be held accountable. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for any misrepresentations or any copyright infringement on the part of advertisers. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for typing errors other than a correction in the following issue. All letters addressed to Connecticut Horse, its publisher, editor, and staff are assumed for publication. Photos, stories (verbal or printed), notifications, news items, and all other material that is submitted, including all materials and photos not specifically solicited by Connecticut Horse, are assumed to be legally released by the submitter for publication. Connecticut Horse assumes no responsibility for damage to or loss of material submitted for publication. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of all materials.

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September/October 2016

Your Letters To the editor: Just read the articles on holistic horse care and a practitioner in the July/August issue. Fabulous!

Gom Kloter, via email

To the editor: I’m thrilled that alternative therapies are being discussed at all, let alone featured. [July/August: Holistic Heath: Treating the Whole Horse] It’s such a classy magazine that I’m hopeful that more people will respect the information and start to expand the way they care for their horses.

Thank you for having me be a part of it. Let me know if I can be of service in the future.

Sara Muirhead, Hoof Cares, Colchester

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To the editor: Everyone absolutely loved the article! [July/August: Youth Spotlight] I even had people coming up to me asking about it and it was posted in my school’s newsletter. Thank you so much!

Mackenzie Lacroix, via email

To the editor: I just read the article about Babcock Hill Farm in your July/August issue of Connecticut Horse and it was wonderful!

Stacy Cook, via Facebook

Win a custom portrait of your horse!

Tell us your thoughts about Connecticut Horse and we’ll enter you to win a custom portrait of your horse by ShawnaLee Kwashnak.

What do you like about the magazine? What do you want to see us do differently? What would you like us cover?

Send to contest@connhorse.com or Connecticut Horse, 99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096.

Drawing will be held October 31, 2016 and winner will be notified by email.

Connecticut Horse

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Interscholastic Equestrian Association Nutmeg State Teams

by Stephanie Sanders

I

n 2016, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) celebrates its 14-year anniversary. IEA’s mission is to introduce students in middle and high school to equestrian sports, and to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition and instruction. Through the IEA, students have the opportunity to earn scholarships toward their college education through awards in competition and sportsmanship activities.

The IEA season runs from September 1 to the national finals in late spring/ early summer. The 2016/2017 Hunt Seat IEA Nationals will be April 21 to 23, 2017, at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia, and the Western IEA Nationals will be in conjunction with the National Reining Horse Association Derby in late June 2017 at the Oklahoma State Fair Park in Oklahoma City.

Last year, there were 490 riders that were part of 28 middle school and 36 upper school hunt-seat teams in Connecticut; 226 hunt-seat teams and 8

September/October 2016

16 western teams comprised all of New England (Zone 1).

Horse Ownership Not Required The unique aspect of IEA competitions, at both the local and national level, is that none of the riders supplies her or his own horse or tack. Instead, students get the horse, saddle, and other tack at the show. Horses are chosen by a random draw. Though the rider and horse have a short opportunity to orient themselves just prior to the over-fences classes, in all other classes, the horse is new to the rider, and there’s no warmup time before entering the competition area.

Riders watch the horses warm up (ridden by riders not competing that day) and hope to learn about the horse they will draw. Coaches receive a handout with tips on how each horse “goes,” if spurs or a crop is needed, or a light touch and quiet legs.

“I have the riders watch the horses in warm up,” says Brittney LaMark, coach of the East Catholic High School

IEA team, “and then when they draw their horse, make sure they watch every trip the horse does and formulate a plan with their coach.”

“I like that IEA really makes you focus on becoming a skilled and accurate rider,” says 17-year-old Maddi DiBella, captain of the East Catholic High School team. “You have to rely on your own abilities rather than hoping your horse can save you if you make a mistake because you don’t really know the type of horse you’re on.”

“IEA shows are definitely different than competing in the jumper ring,” says Maddi. “That’s what I’m used to.

IEA is more laid back. However, a lot of work does go into hosting or co-hosting a show.”

“Participating on an IEA team sets a rider up for success in the IHSA,” says Brittney. “If they ride in the same area, many of the horses are the same and riders can have an advantage of being already familiar with the horses.

Competitors will also know what the judges are looking for and will have

“In the 2012–2013 season, I went all the way to IEA hunt-seat nationals,” says Aoife. “I had to qualify through multiple other levels and had some tough competition, especially at zones.

When I arrived at nationals,

more experience riding different horses.”

“This is a unique sport,” says Daryl DeCarli of DeCarli Farm in Ellington, “you have to ride unfamiliar horses and it really tests the rider’s ability. IEA is a great opportunity for the serious rider looking for a team atmosphere and sport.”

IEA rider Aoife McBride says, “One of my favorite parts of IEA is having the ability to figure out a horse at that moment you learn that you’re riding him, and figuring him out enough to perform your best.”

sons. At the shows, the entry fee per class ranges from $30 to $45. Riders pay a coaching fee at each show, as well. The IEA does offer financial assistance: visit rideiea.org to download the forms.

“IEA is a wonderful

Nutmeg State Success

courtesy of Avon Valley Show Stables

Levels of Competition In hunt-seat competitions, there are five over-fences classes with fences no higher than three feet, and numerous flat equitation classes.

Western riders show in horsemanship and reining.

Both disciplines offer a variety of ability levels — beginner, novice, intermediate, and open.

Middle school teams are for riders in grades 6–8; upper school teams are for riders in grades 9–12.

The scores are based on horsemanship and equitation, not the horse. Each rider can compete in a maximum of five shows a year and, depending on her ability, one or two classes per show. Points are tracked for individual riders’ accomplishments, as well as team performance — earning points to qualify for regional, zone, and national finals.

In hunt seat, riders and teams qualify to compete at regional, zone, and national competitions — narrowing down the field to those few invited to the IEA Hunt Seat National Finals. In Zone 1, qualifying western riders and teams compete in the zone competition and then go on to the Western IEA National Finals.

teammates and being able to cheer my teammates on at the shows.”

Coach Andrea Zaleski of the Salko Farm team encourages riders to, “find a coach and team that make you feel at home.”

High school team captain for the Avon Valley Show Stables IEA team, Olivia Tencer placed fourth in the IEA National Sportsmanship Award.

with people from barns all over the country, it didn’t matter to me how I placed, or if I even placed at all. I was so proud of myself; I made it to nationals.”

Brittney LaMark, coach for the East Catholic High School and the Oak Meadow Farm IEA teams says, “IEA is a great way for riders to better themselves both on and off the horse and build teamwork skills.”

How Much Does It Cost?

Less than owning a horse!

Each rider must annually join the IEA; for the 2016– 2017 school year, the membership fee is $55. Coaches and teams must also pay membership fees to the nonprofit IEA. Most IEA teams have a set number of required weekly riding les-

organization that gives students the opportunity to show who don’t own a horse,” says Hillary Rheinheimer, director of riding and head trainer at the Ethel Walker School in Simsbury. “At the same time though, many students that own their own horse also enjoy IEA shows. IEA gives riders a chance to truly be a part of a team. We encourage all of our riders to give it a try, to better themselves as riders, and strengthen our sense of community.”

“I made friends with all my teammates from last year,” says Maddi. “They were all seniors, so unfortunately I could only ride with them for one season. IEA has taught me about being a wellrounded rider and it’s been great having the support of

The Cavalier Farm’s Upper School Team, from New Milford, took sixth place at the 2015–2016 IEA National Finals, April 20 to 24, in Lexington, Kentucky.

Tessa Molloy, who rides with the Movado Farms Equestrian Team in Durham, was Junior Varsity Novice Over Fences Individual Champion.

Avon Valley Show Stables high school team captain Olivia Tencer placed fourth in the IEA National Sportsmanship Award. The IEA, in conjunction with the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), awards the National Sportsmanship Award to a student rider each year.

The top eight riders are selected from a group of riders who earned a sportsmanship award at a local, regional, or zone IEA show during the 2015–2016 season. These winners are then invited to submit an application for the National Sportsmanship Award. The student riders submit a résumé, compose a 250-word essay explaining how horses and/or equestrian competition have influenced her or his life, and three letters of recommendation.

“Good sportsmanship is a tenet in the IEA and this award is held to high regard,” says Roxane Lawrence, IEA co-founder and executive director.

“Choosing the top eight from the pool of amazing candidates seems to get harder each year.”

“Throughout the history Connecticut Horse

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IEA and the USHJA to create a new clinic series that will offer enhanced opportunities to educate students in grades six to twelve about horseman-

CORE Clinic November 5 and 6 clinician Rita Timpanaro will lead a CORE Clinic at the Ethel Walker School in Simsbury.

Rita is a USEF “R” judgeUSHJA–certified trainer and clinician.

CORE (Cultivating Our Riders’ Education) Clinics are a partnership between the

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September/October 2016

Each clinic will be based on a model that is similar to the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program. The clinic will include instruction and

Sarah Adanti

of IHSA,” says founder and IHSA Executive Director, Bob Cacchione, “I’ve always been impressed by the caliber of sportsmanship and teamwork exhibited by our student athletes who strive to succeed in the arena as well as the classroom. Our partnership with IEA is rooted in our shared values and a commitment to recognize athletic excellence, integrity, and service.”

Nearly 750 IEA riders were eligible for the National Sportsmanship Award. Olivia placed fourth out of the 140 finalists.

The East Catholic High School 2015–2016 IEA team left to right: Maddi DiBella (2017), Ashley Bebyn (2016), Grace Landry (2016), and Maddy Golino (2016).

ship and riding in a drawbased (catch-ride) format,” says Mckenzie Yates, IEA’s communications coordinator.

testing in stable management and equine care as well as riding instruction that emphasizes draw-based rid-

ing techniques as well as general instruction on equitation and riding skills.

Riding spots for the clinic are for USHJA active, collegiate, and scholastic members (IEA and USHJA members) who compete at the Intermediate or Open levels. Auditing for the clinics must be reserved in advance and is free to any IEA or USHJA member. Nonmembers may be charged a fee for auditing the clinic.

Roxane says, “We were so impressed with the USHJA Emerging Athletes Program, that we thought it was a great idea to offer a similar program to our young riders while including one of our valued partner programs, the IHSA. Of course, none of this would be possible without the tremendous support of the USHJA.” “We’re pleased to work with IEA to offer CORE clinics,” says Kevin Price, executive director of USHJA. “The

clinics aim to give riders educational opportunities that focus on what’s most important in and out of the tack, and we believe expanding educational opportunities like this to riders of all skill levels benefits the entire sport.”

To learn more and register for the clinic, visit ethelwalker.org/riding/ core-clinic-2016.

Find a Local Team Note: Openings are as of the middle of August.

DeCarli Farm Ellington Danielle DeCarli and Carly Tusia, coaches (860) 8789274 decarliefarm@gmail.com openings both upper and middle school teams “Coaches Dani DeCarli and Carly Tusia are kind and sensitive with the riders’ needs,” says DeCarli Farm owner

Daryl DeCarli, “and can be tough in order to make sure the kids are learning how to effectively ride unfamiliar horses.”

Riders on the DeCarli Farm team have qualified for regionals and zones in the past two years.

“We’ve a great facility to ride at and some good horses,” says Daryl. “We run IEA team practice every other Wednesday night.”

During the show season, “we try to get all our shows done before it gets too cold. We know that’s important to some of the kids and parents.”

East Catholic High School Manchester Sarah Adanti, team moderator and director of advancement (860) 989-4417 adantis@echs.com openings on upper school team

East Catholic High School started its IEA team last year and made it to the zone finals.

“Brittney LaMark is a fantastic coach,” says Sarah Adanti, team moderator and director of advancement at East Catholic High School.

Brittney has been riding since she was eight and competed in hunters and equitation as a junior.

“I rode on the University of Connecticut IHSA team for four years and was team captain in my senior year,” says Brittney. “I’ve been training at Oak Meadow Farm for more than three years and also coach the Oak Meadow Farm IEA team.”

The assistant coach is Molly Shannon (2010).

“Anne Mather Brzezicki (1968), the director of Equine Science at Middle Tennessee State University, was part of the conception for IEA and IHSA nation-

wide,” says Sarah. “Our alumni also include Kathy Connelly (1968) who was the chef d’equipe for the United States Dressage Team at the Australian Olympics and Cam Gambolati (1967) who trained 1985 Kentucky Derby winner Spend a Buck.”

Team members ride once a week and twice a week prior to a show. The team rides at Oak Meadow Farm in East Windsor in its two indoor arenas and two outdoor arenas.

Ethel Walker School Simsbury Hillary Rheinheimer, coach (860) 408-4355 hrheinheimer@ my.ethelwalker.org openings both upper and middle school teams The Ethel Walker School has three IEA team coaches. “All of our coaches stress the importance of a solid foun-

Connecticut Horse

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Folly Farm Simsbury Susan Miller, head coach (860) 658-9943 follyfarm.us openings both upper and middle school teams 12

September/October 2016

Head coach Susan Miller has more than 20 years of experience as an instructor and 10 years as the IEA coach of the Folly Farm IEA team. “Sue’s done it all,” says Alison Patricelli, Folly Farm’s general manager. “She’s led the team and many individual riders to numerous end-ofyear awards.”

parents, and we’re thrilled to welcome new local riders to our lesson program thanks to their interest in our IEA team.”

Movado Farm’s IEA team had a successful 2015–2016 season and qualified for regionals and zones.

Tessa Molly qualified for nationals and was national

courtesy of Ethel Walker School

dation and strong basics before moving on to more technical skills,” says Hillary Rheinheimer, director of riding, head trainer, and IEA coach at the Ethel Walker School. “We like our riders to lesson on all kinds of horses so they feel comfortable with whatever type of horse they draw at a show.”

Hillary has competed in the ASPCA Maclay and USEF Medal Finals, placing in the top 15 in both. She’s won the Connecticut Hunter Jumper Association Medal Finals and was reserve champion at the New England Equitation Finals, reserve champion at the Cacchione Cup Finals, and winner of the International Intercollegiate Show Jumping and Team Dressage competitions.

The Ethel Walker IEA team has placed fourth and ninth overall at nationals, and most recently, a novice rider placed second over fences and fourth on the flat.

“Ethel Walker has a premier facility with exceptional school horses,” says Hillary.

“We’re very particular when accepting our equine donations and make sure that both the horses and our riders have the best experience possible.”

The Equestrian Center is on Ethel Walker’s 175-acre campus, providing ready access to the barn and horses, as well as winding trails.

Williams Barn and additional barns can house up to 65 horses. The Henderson Riding Ring includes a lighted indoor arena, dustfree footing, and a viewing gallery. IEA competitions take place in the outdoor riding ring, weather permitting.

The Ethel Walker School 2015–2016 IEA team.

Folly Farm IEA team members take two to three lessons per week in one of the farm’s two indoor arenas or in the outdoor sand arena.

The high school team placed third at nationals in 2011 and more recently was the middle school champion team at the Zone 1 Finals in 2014.

individual champion Junior Varsity Novice Over Fences.

“We look forward to another fun and competitive season! says Tricia.

Salko Farm Southport Andrea Zaleski, coach (203) 249-1098 salkofarmandstable.com openings both upper and middle school

Movado Farms Durham Louisa Fedora and Tricia Carlton, coaches (860) 463-5272 movadofarms.net openings both upper and middle school teams The Movado Farms IEA team holds its weekly practice Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m.

“To ensure success, we encourage every rider to take a team lesson each week in addition to her regular weekly lesson,” says coach Tricia Carlton. “Our team has received enthusiastic support from riders and their

The Salko Farm team is coached by Andrea Zaleski.

Andrea has been teaching for more than 10 years and riding for more than 20 years. She’s a Certified Horsemanship Association riding instructor and is Red Cross First Aid–certified. “I enjoy building confidence in my riders,” says Andrea, “and creating well-rounded equestrians.”

The Salko Farm team attends clinics and holds many team building activities. “The farm promotes great friends, fun, and learning,” says Andrea.

Riders are required to take a minimum of two lessons per week. The farm has 26 lessons horses, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, three barns, trails, and a crosscountry course on its 10-acre property.

Southeastern Connecticut Gales Ferry Sally Hinkle, coach (860) 464-7934 mvhchorse.com openings both upper and middle school The Southeastern Connecticut (SECT) IEA team welcomes riders from area schools and other barns that don’t have enough riders to form a team. “Event riders and flat riders are also welcome,” says Sally Hinkle, head coach. “We have lots of fun, especially showing as a team.”

At the 2015 IEA Zones, the SECT team had several riders place in the top seven.

Caroline Mancini won her Future Novice Over Fences class and qualified for nationals where she placed sixth.

The SECT team rides at the 172-acre Mystic Valley Hunt Club in Gales Ferry.

During the summer Mystic Valley Hunt Club offers two IEA Boot Camps that include clinics on the judge’s perspective, showing at a guest barn, horse knowledge, rider fitness and nutrition, course walk critiques, and a guest trainer.

Stephanie is the publisher of Massachusetts Horse and Connecticut Horse. She lives in the foothills of the Berkshires on Pocketful of Ponies Farm with her two Haflinger mares, two Miniature geldings, and various adorable kitties.

Connecticut Horse

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Youth Spotlight

Tessa Molloy IEA National Champion

Branford

by Toni Leland

D

Toni Leland

New York City, I always wanted to go up the family’s two rescue dogs, Stella and elight brightens Tessa Molloy’s and pet the carriage horses. After that, Hinkley, and occasionally has time to pretty face as she listens to her I got to have lessons.” go out with her friends. coach talk about the recent Tessa has tried several different ridThe family spends plenty of Interscholastic Equestrian Association ing disciplines, but she really loves together time at their home in (IEA) Nationals. This 16-year-old from Vermont, enjoying the Branford is a rider at outdoors. With no televiMovado Farm in Durham, sion or internet, they fill and was recently crowned the time with board Junior Varsity Novice Over games, books, and movie Fences National Champion marathons. Tessa also at the IEA Nationals in recently got her driving Lexington, Kentucky. permit, and both she and Twenty contenders came her mother look forward from across the nation to to Tessa being able to compete for that title. drive herself to the barn.

Tessa says she almost Movado’s IEA team couldn’t believe it when she practices every Thursday won. “I started to cry when evening for two hours, a they finally announced my serious commitment for name,” says Tessa, grinning the riders who wish to be ear to ear. part of the team.

Movado Farm owner Additionally, there’s the and IEA coach Louisa time spent getting to Fedora nods. “It was agoknow the horses as potennizing, waiting for the tial partners, and schedannouncement as they uled time to attend the worked through the list of shows. Clearly, the team riders,” Louisa says. “At members think it’s worth it. some point, the girls thought Coach Louisa Fedora, Tessa Molloy, and supportive mom, Andrea Molloy.

What’s more, the trainers, Louisa they’d blown it. There’d been some jumping. And it shows. Her enthusiasm Fedora and Tricia Carlton, were wrong leads picked up, but it isn’t over supports her success with IEA. “I came awarded the Connecticut Hunter and until it’s over.” here to Movado Farm to join the IEA Jumper Association High Point Tessa is no stranger to winning. team and I love it. I encourage anyone During the IEA season, she was to come here,” she says, her bright smile Trainers Award, providing IEA team members with some of the best coachMovado’s high point scorer with 99 returning. “We do so well. We were the ing available. points combined over fences and on middle and high school champions.”

When Tessa is asked what influthe flat. She had a clean sweep of five One of the biggest advantages to enced her to join the IEA team, she first places on the flat in the regular riding with an IEA team is that a rider thinks for a moment. “I guess I’m a IEA season, and she took first in all four doesn’t have to own a horse. Kids can of her classes at the regional competitrain, compete, and fine-tune their skills competitive person, and I just really tion. An all-around athlete, Tessa also without the expense of horse ownership. love it,” she says. “Some people get nervous, but I don’t see it as a big deal. runs varsity cross-country and indoor “To find something that you’re so I’m working hard and want to show off and outdoor track at Sacred Heart passionate about, at such a young age, my talent and get a name for myself, Academy in Branford, where she’s an is incredible and deserving of all the and possibly win a scholarship.” honor student. support I can give her,” says Tessa’s She’s already thinking about colThis is Tessa’s first year riding at mother Andrea Molloy, smiling. How lege and, for sure, it will be one with a Movado Farm and on the IEA team, does all this fit in with the family? “We after not having shown for two years. make it work, but you could liken me to riding program, but right now, she hasn’t made a choice.

Another first is the sportsmanship an Uber driver,” she says.

Favorite horse? “I love them all, but award she won, an honor voted on by What does Tessa do in her spare my favorite is Odie,” she says, grinning. coaches and judges at an IEA show. time? She and her mother both laugh.

Since winning the national champiReceiving this award qualified Tessa to “There isn’t much spare time,” says onship, Tessa leases the beautiful big apply for the National Sportsmanship Andrea. During the school year, Tessa warmblood gelding that took her there.

Award. goes straight to track practice after Asked when she first fell in love school, and then from track to the barn His official name is Overdressed and he’s quite elegant. Seeing the two with horses, she says, laughing, “I don’t to ride. Weekends are consumed by together, it’s obvious that he’s as crazy even remember, but I started riding track meets or horse shows, and a lot of about Tessa as she is about him. when I was five. Any time we were in 35-mile trips to the barn. Tessa enjoys

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September/October 2016

“Riding isn’t for everyone,” says Tessa. “You have to really have a connection with your horse, and be able to understand him and work on that connection.”

“It’s the only real sport where an animal and a human have to function together,” says Louisa. “It’s a partnership.”

Does Tessa have advice for anyone who thinks they might like to try out for the team? “It’s going to be a lot of hard work, and determination to stick with it,” she says. “But it’s really enjoyable once you succeed — and it’s a good feeling when you accomplish something that you’ve been working at for so many years.”

Tessa gazes at the gleaming trophy on the table next to her. “I’m looking forward to next IEA season,” she says.

“It’s a very fun and rewarding experience. You make really good friends here at Movado Farm — I love all the girls,” she says.

Toni Leland has written nine equestrian mysteries, a young-adult novel, two books on gardening, and a photographic history, and her articles have appeared in Grit, Over the Back Fence/Ohio, Country Living, Connecticut Lifestyles, Pathfinders, Sound and Country, Connecticut Family, and The Day (New London). She is the owner of Equine Graphics Publishing Group and SmallHorse Press.

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Farm Feature

New Milford

Cavalier Farm

Enhanced Riding and Horsemanship

by Sally L. Feuerberg

C

Ron Schwane Photography

trainer began working alongside her oach Cheryl Lemoine and her vides a good spot for riders to wade in Upper School Hunt Seat Team of mom at Cricker Brook Farm in Monroe with their horses for a little playtime. when she was 22 years old. Twenty-five Cavalier Farm in New Milford Although Cheryl teaches adults, years later, some of the students Cheryl placed sixth overall in the young adults, and children, she’d always teaches first met her as they began their been intrigued with the concept of Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) National Finals, forming an IEA team. held at the prestigious Many of her students Kentucky Horse Park met the age requirein Lexington, ments and were Kentucky, in April of attending middle and this year. That alone is high school. “There an amazing feat. To be were many advantages the only team from to joining the proConnecticut to make it gram,” says Cheryl. to the competition is “The obvious opporalso noteworthy. tunity to enhance Abigail Lamore, their riding, horseMargaret Mader, Sara manship skills, and of Sprague, Adelaide course, the experiToensing, and Chelsea ence. The next step Lemoine were also was to discuss the idea selected to participate of forming a team in the Emerging with my students, and Athlete Program I received a lot of posRegional Training itive feedback and Session at the Mount response. Our first Holyoke Equestrian team started with Center this past July. twelve students and, As a trainer with today, we not only parmore than 25 years ticipate in the regional of experience, IEA shows, we comCheryl thinks it’s pete in horse shows Left to right: Annie Fournier of Litchfield, Alycia Petrauskas of Goshen, Chelsea LeMoine of remarkable and throughout the area, Roxbury, Jordan Guilmart of Litchfield, and coach Cheryl LeMoine of Roxbury. impressive to see her including the Vermont students constantly qualify for, and be Summer Festival at the CHJA Medal own riding pursuits at Cricker Brook. awarded, numerous year-end awards, as Finals at the Fairfield County Hunt When the farm was sold, she continued well as compete in national venues such to share her knowledge and expertise Club. We also hold an IEA Boot Camp in August,” she says. as USEF Pony Finals, Marshall and under the farm’s name at several other Cheryl is presently looking to Sterling Finals, and this spring’s IEA facilities. But with the complex issues of replenish her IEA team, as some of her Nationals. travel, scheduling, and coordination of high school students have graduated Cheryl’s riding career spans more training sessions and lessons with her and are heading to college. than 40 years, competing on the A cirstudents and clients, she knew the time When asked about her recent trip cuit from Vermont to Florida. As a junwas right to find a place of her own. So, to the IEA National Finals, Cheryl says, ior, she rode with some of the most in September of 2015, Cavalier Farm “We brought a team of four — Annie recognized names in the equine comwas born.

Fouriner, Alycia Petrauskas, Jordan munity — from Michael Page and Located at the Wells Valley Farm Guilmart, and my daughter Chelsea. I Frank Madden to Bill Cooney. She’s facility that is owned and operated by also brought my eleven-year-old daughalso a regional Maclay and USET qualiLaura Whitcomb, Cavalier Farm’s fier. In addition to her extensive equiclients have access to a 70' x 175' indoor ter, Devon, with us. She’s like our team mascot! She was an amazing helper, tation experience, Cheryl has competed arena, a 100' x 150' outdoor jumping doing whatever was needed for the successfully in the hunter and jumper ring, and an outdoor dressage ring that divisions. In February of this year, she is 20 meters by 50 meters and includes a team, including holding the horses, polishing boots, and carrying the team’s received Connecticut Hunter and judge’s stand. The property encomJumper Association’s 2015 High Point passes approximately 50 acres, featuring heavy backpacks.

“I always tell my students to take a Equitation Trainer Award. lush grass fields and paddocks. Just deep breath and then exhale prior to Cheryl’s career as a professional beyond the jump course, a river pro16

September/October 2016

entering the show ring. Focus and think things through. Most riders are a bit nervous and a little overwhelmed at first. Nationals isn’t an easy competition. Each year has been a little tougher. Previously, you needed to earn a total of 15 points. Now it’s up to 18.

It’s not just the riding events anymore.

The IEA is now including a horsemanship test and exams as part of its schedule. I was very proud of our team; they all worked hard.”

Cheryl explains that the finals did provide some lighter entertainment and activities for its dedicated participants. “The USHJA held a scavenger hunt, which fostered team bonding, cooperation, and sportsmanship,” says Cheryl. “There was a list of questions that needed to be answered, as well as about twenty items to find. Traveling throughout the horse park and exploring the Wheeler Museum was the only way to finish the game. Toward the end of our visit, we even had an opportunity to see some of the course set-ups and challenges for the upcoming Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event that was held at the end of April.”

Riding in the indoor arena today is Chelsea working with an elegant, threeyear-old Percheron cross named Bea. With soft hands and quiet rhythm, Chelsea gently communicates subtle signals and cues to the willing and engaging mare. After the ring session, Cheryl suggests that Chelsea take Bea out for a short trail ride, and asks Devon to accompany her, to help keep Bea more relaxed, safe, and calm.

Cheryl’s compassion, concern, and understanding of the young mare is unequivocal, as it is with all the horses under her care.

Returning to the main barn, we meet 15-year-old Jordan Guilmart, and Remi, a 10-year-old Warmblood gelding. Jordan’s been leasing Remi since December. “I love Remi’s personality, especially his playfulness, which is obvious when he goes after his ball toy that we suspended in his stall,” says Jordan.

Jordan has been to IEA Nationals four times and has trained with Cheryl for seven years. “I started riding when I was five at summer camp, and now I ride just about every day,” she says, smiling. “Training with Cheryl has been a rewarding experience. Cheryl pushes me to work my hardest and do the best that I can on every ride. Even though we work hard, we still have fun at Cavalier Farm. Whether it’s taking a

trip to Six Flags, or just going out to dinner, we always have a good time.”

Betsy Rice is a paramedic for Norwalk Hospital and is enrolled in the Western Connecticut State University Nursing Program. She spends her limited and precious spare time at Cavalier Farm with her eight-year-old off-thetrack Thoroughbred. Betsy credits Cheryl with the mare’s ongoing development and improvement. Betsy originally met Cheryl in the 1980s at Cricker Brook, and encountered her again in 2004.

“Cheryl has helped me with Big Apple Lady for the past two years and I couldn’t be happier with the progress,” says Betsy. “Apple has gone from a seventeen-hand, thin and rangy mare straight off the track, to a very solid, well-schooled horse that is starting her eventing and jumper career. Apple needed extra time for her body to heal after her racing days ended, and there was never a time frame to get her into the jumper ring. Apple is now a happy, sound, and healthy jumper that will, without question, be competitive and remain happy doing her job, thanks to Cheryl’s compassionate approach to horse care, instruction, and showing.”

“Cheryl is a patient and methodical instructor who uses traditional concepts to train both horses and riders,” says Betsy. “Horses at Cavalier Farm under Cheryl’s tutelage are brought along slowly, thoughtfully, and correctly. The horses are willing to do their intended jobs, because their training was done systematically and compassionately.”

An atmosphere of friendship and harmony prevails at the farm. No matter what the age or ability level of the rider, there’s a mutual respect and support among all. At Cavalier Farm, students are taught the essential fundamentals of putting the horse’s care and needs above their own. All students are given the opportunity to not only develop the necessary skills to become better riders, but to become true horsemen. Cheryl Lemoine wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.

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17

Horseperson Feature

Simsbury

A

Alison Patricelli Taking the Reins

lison Patricelli of Simsbury’s Folly Farm runs on two fuels: excellence and adrenaline.

houses the independent Belle Equestrian, a top-level equitation and hunter operation that is out on the Alevel show circuit year round. Bolstered by her experienced staff, Alison’s supervisory job for Folly Farm Show Stables is to keep the horses healthy, the instruc-

courtesy of Alison Patricelli

As a teen, this uber-energetic Connecticut native competed as a hunter/jumper rider. She became a working student at Folly Farm, then an equine ambulatory vet tech for North Granby veterinarian, Dr. Harry Werner. She studied government and religion at Wesleyan University, then became a board-certified veterinary surgeon with a specialty in small animals through Colorado State University and the University of Wisconsin. While practicing veterinary surgery in Colorado, where she lived for nearly 20 years, Alison became a wife and mom to three children, then earned a degree in early childhood education so that she could start, then run, a Montessori preAlison playing polo. school for her kids to attend. Now that her chiltors and clients happy, the grounds prisdren are older (11, 13, and 14) Alison tine, the shows running smoothly, and, and her husband, Tom Norrdin, have of course, all accounts solidly in the come home to Connecticut to manage black. the family business — the 175-acre Folly Next under Alison’s supervision is Farm.

Folly Farm Events, a new business that Taking the reins of Folly Farm, she started using the farm’s multiple however, has been less like an equigreen spaces and the gorgeouslytation class and more like suddenly driv- situated charming historic cow barn ing a team of powerful workhorses. In that features an exposed Connecticut taking over management of this former redstone foundation and post-and-beam cattle farm (which was purchased and construction. Bedecked with twinkling reinvented by Alison and her father in fairy lights, flanked by an outdoor 1983) Alison and Tom have become patio, and just steps away from a stewards of three active businesses at sparkling brook, the setting is perfect one dynamic location. for decidedly non-horsey events such as The first business is the well-estabweddings, business gatherings, gradualished Folly Farm Show Stables. With a tions, and fundraisers. solid and highly competent staff led by Finally, Folly Farm is now home three 20-year veterans — head instrucfield for Simsbury Polo Club, which tor Cara Chapel, head of riding school offers tournaments and tailgating Sue Miller, and barn manager David throughout the summer, as well as yearGuerrero — Folly Farm Show Stables is round polo school (beginners wela full-service boarding, training, and les- come), polo camp, private lessons, and son program, hosting monthly, recogpolo club practices. An utterly addicted nized horse shows on site. polo diehard, Alison teaches polo, Folly Farm Show Stables also 18

September/October 2016

schedules matches, supervises scrupulous field care, tries to ride daily and, of course, plays polo as often as possible.

“Fortunately, where horses are concerned,” says Alison, “I’m all in. It’s like a drug for me.” So, just as the air around Snow White fluttered with birds and butterflies, the air around Alison vibrates with messages multiplying on the two cell phones she carries.

Guardian of the Herd “What stands out about Alison is how much she loves her horses,” says polo teammate John Gobin, general manager of Great Meadow Polo Club in The Plains, Virginia.

West Simsbury resident Andrew Davis agrees.

Andrew spent a year as Alison’s working student.

“For her,” Andrew says, “the horse thing isn’t just a business. She loves it because she loves horses.

She always looks for the best for the horse, not necessarily what’s going to be best for her.”

“For example,” Andrew says, “when Alison moved to Folly Farm from Colorado, she made adjustments for the school horses’ comfort. She gave them more turnout time. She made sure their coats stayed longer in the winter. She had a saddle fitter ensure their tack sat correctly.” According to Andrew, Alison’s philosophy is that the school horses work hardest for the business, therefore, their well-being is priority.”

“It’s horses first, then us,” says Melanie Ebersold of Glastonbury.

Melanie takes polo lessons with Alison alongside her daughter 16-year-old Annie. Why? According to this mom, “It just kind of makes you feel alive.”

Annie is a member of the Connecticut Polo High School Team based at the University of Connecticut in Storrs. “Every moment you’re with Alison is a teaching moment,” says Melanie. “She’s just so well educated on every aspect of polo and horses.”

“The care at Folly Farm that Alison gives the horses is above and beyond anything we’ve ever experienced before,” says Annie. With the self-discipline and instinctual husbandry to ignore an awesome play that would be dangerous for her mount, Alison rides, and teaches, with the care of her horses as her first and finest goal.

Speed, Strategy, and Athleticism “The first day my youngest went to elementary school, I said, ‘I’m going to take a polo lesson at Denver Polo Club,’” says Alison, explaining how this former hunter/jumper started swinging a mallet at full gallop. “Two weeks later, I bought two polo ponies, and the rest is history. Now I have 17.”

“I feel like polo is the perfect continuation of my lifelong passion for horses, but also my appreciation for team sports, competition, and being an athlete that plays a game where the winner is determined by the goals on the scoreboard, rather than by who’s the prettiest,” says Alison. “Polo is such an adrenaline sport. I’ve played ice hockey.

I’ve played soccer. It’s similar to both of those things. The way you move your horse across the field, the way you position yourself, the way you work with your teammates . . . If you’re a person who likes team sports, who likes adrenaline, who likes to kick a ball to your teammate and to score a goal, polo is all of that — on a horse. It’s so much fun.”

“Polo’s quite competitive, but it’s not cutthroat like some of the other disciplines,” she says. “It’s all about fun. If you’re not having fun, you’re missing the point. It’s a passionate game, but the moment you walk off the field, you’re barbecuing with the other team.”

John’s description of polo is more succinct. To him, polo is the perfect sport for those with a type A personality, a hockey player mentality, and a heart for the “crazy and wild.”

Melanie Ebersold supports her daughter’s love of a sport that makes many other brave high-school athletes look like scaredy-cats. “Polo is a gentleman’s sport,” Melanie says. “They have to learn to shake hands. It’s also how to be a good person; how to be a good sport. I really like the life skills learned.

That said, it can be dangerous. You have to learn not to get hurt. Alison’s really good at that. She’s always trying to make you a smarter player.”

The Most Precious Players Alison keeps a string of polo ponies as her polo school horses. Many of these are rehabilitated rescues and older horses past high-level competition.

Most know the game better than their riders. Alison says that one will actually spin and find the line of the ball for the student. If the student sets her up wrong, the mare will stop dead in frustration.

Alison keeps her personal polo ponies in an adjacent barn. Like Ollivander choosing a wand for Harry Potter, Alison lovingly describes each mount’s magical qualities as she moves past their stalls. It’s post-game on a beautiful summer afternoon, and Alison whispers so as not to disturb her snoozing string. Polo ponies, she says, are chosen for speed, agility, handiness, solid-mindedness, and fearlessness.

Resting and content, none of them paw, crib, or weave . . . they stand or lie, their lower lips rubbery, in a stable that seems more like a nursery than a competition barn Resting and content, none of them paw, crib, or weave. Instead, they stand or lie, their lower lips rubbery, in a stable that seems more like a nursery than a competition barn.

“This is polo. These horses are happy,” says Alison, describing a different tenet of care than other disciplines.

Polo ponies get eight to ten hours of turnout a day, she says. They are turned out in groups rather than alone and, like NFL players, they get a few months off every year. In season, polo ponies are worked in groups of six. When playing, they’re smack on the ball or an opponent, and they’re trustworthy being ridden at the gallop, one-handed, multiple mallets swinging, with a drone buzzing overhead photographing all the madness.

Smiling at her horses, Alison says, “All the good ones love the game.”

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(860) 803-2777 (860) 803-0675 polo player — it’s hard not to imagine what the next chukker in her metamorphic life will bring.

To guide her, there’s great advice in polo, called next play.

“Next play applies in so many ways in polo,” Alison says. “Number one: Think of your horse’s safety and think of your own safety first before you go into any play, because there’s always the next play. Two: If you’ve made a bad play, you’ve missed the ball, there’s always the next play. Three: If you’re not having fun. If you’re not smiling when you’re playing polo, something’s wrong. Something needs to change.”

For Alison, whether she is coaching a student, planning a show, scheduling a wedding, or playing the game that she loves, her do-all role at Folly Farm sets a frenetic pace beyond what most people could endure.

Yet, all of this horse-centered craziness suits this achiever’s style — and it keeps her next play home at Folly Farm.

The Next Chukker Polo players call each period a chukker and, for Alison — veterinarian, mother, teacher, businesswoman, coach, and Connecticut Horse

19

Naugatuck

by Sally L. Feuerberg

Lend a Hoof

Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center

A

ShawnaLee Kwashnak

Mary was a paraprofessional who spewelcome summer breeze gently cialized in helping students with special embraces you on entering education needs. (Paraprofessionals are Hidden Acres Therapeutic teaching assistants who provide instrucRiding Center. Beams of radiant suntional services to students under the light pour through the grand barn general supervision of a certified doors and, instinctively, your eyes are teacher.) drawn to a sign posted above the frame of this gateway. It simply reads, “IF YOU THINK YOU CAN . . . YOU MIGHT. BUT IF YOU BELIEVE YOU CAN . . . YOU WILL.” There couldn’t be a more appropriate and fitting statement to describe not only the dedication of the riding center’s founders and executive directors, Theron and Mary Simons, but also the resolve, commitment, and devotion of the entire staff. The sign also provides inspiration and encouragement to the people the center serves.

Although Hidden Acres Farm has been in the Simons family since 1917, it went through a period in which parcels of land were sold off in the 1970s, and then acquired and pieced back together over the last 25 years. Founded in 2008, Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit organization located on 60 acres in Naugatuck. The property includes a stable and two outdoor riding arenas, as well as many beautiful wooded trails, ideal for riding and carriage driving. A new covered arena is under construction and will be equipped with electricity, lights, and heat to Sarah and Jocasta, a 17-year-old Morgan at Hidden Acres. facilitate the farm’s year-round operSome clients at the center may be ation. A combination meeting room dealing with maladies that have chaland classroom, and a handicappedaccessible lavatory addition to the build- lenged them throughout their lives, and others may be learning to cope with ing are also planned. newly diagnosed conditions, including Mary and Theron have always cerebral palsy, autism, depression, anxistrongly believed in the power of the human/animal bond, having personally ety, schizoaffective disorder, and postexperienced the exceptional benefits of traumatic stress disorder. There have also been instances when the center has equine partnerships. They’ve commitbeen called upon to assist a child or ted themselves to creating a place for adult who is dealing with the devastatspecial needs children and adults to ing loss of a loved one or parent. explore their potential and strive to meet their personal goals — all in a com- Therapists, social workers, doctors, schools, parents, and friends can refer passionate and supportive environment. clients, or some hear about the center “Mary had been involved with the simply by word of mouth. special needs population pretty much The benefits of therapeutic riding all of her life,” Theron says. “While we were building the barn, we decided that and equine-assisted activities are numerous. Physically, the horse offers a if we recreated the farm, pastures, and paddocks, we were all going to share it.” unique experience in movement — 20

September/October 2016

with a gait similar to humans — by engaging core muscles and employing the three-dimensional hip rotation produced by walking. At the same time, this motion works the upper body and builds overall strength, endurance, and muscle tone. Emotionally, the human/animal bond is beneficial for the participants. Horses provide nonjudgmental acceptance, which fosters relationship building and trust. On a sensory level, the horse’s natural gait allows riders to address challenges with balance, spatial awareness, and motor planning.

“In addition to therapeutic riding, Hidden Acres specializes in equine-assisted learning,” says Jeanna Pellino, Hidden Acres’s program director and PATH advanced certified therapeutic riding instructor. “These sessions are conducted by equine and wellness professionals and are often unmounted sessions rather than riding. There are many lessons we can learn from how horses think, feel, and interact with each other as herd animals, communicating primarily through body language. Horses provide immediate feedback to our behaviors, allowing participants to practice building trust-based relationship skills in a non judgmental experiential learning format. We offer programs and workshops throughout the year that are open to the general public including teens facing life challenges and adults seeking to develop greater self-awareness.”

The sweet smell of hay, the sound of the wind rustling through the trees, the noises the horses make, the clipclop of hooves, and the whinnies to pasture mates are just a few of the many scents and sounds the environment provides. Grooming and brushing a horse can also help to address tactile challenges.

Socially, there’s the interaction with the volunteers and staff, along with work on behavioral skills, which are all addressed in a safe and supportive surrounding that focuses on success.

Communication and team-building skills are developed as students provide verbal cues to the horse, as well as pro-

viding feedback to the instructors and assistants.

As you can imagine, it takes a special type of horse to assist the staff in their quest to improve the minds, bodies, and spirits of children and adults with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges. “Horses that succeed in these roles tend to be between ten and twenty years old, and fifteen hands and under,” says Jeanna. “The [horses] should have a solid foundation of training and experience. They’re also kind and patient by nature, less reactive than the average horse, and in good health with sound walk, trot, and canter movement, which is especially important for riders with physical challenges.”

“Horses accepted for the program will receive a lifetime of care,” says Jeanna. “They’ll remain at the farm and never be resold or given away. Our horses are treated as part of the family.

They’re given top quality nutrition, including the hay that’s grown on the farm. They receive natural supplements, chiropractic work, massage, and daily turnout, along with the best of veterinary and farrier support. There are also individualized training and conditioning schedules for each animal. We provide them with plenty of time off, and incorporate positive reinforcement in all of our training methods. Our philosophy here includes teaching empathy and compassion for other beings.

We are committed to our therapy herd and their well-being. Part of what we are teaching our students is how to consider the needs of others.”

There are presently seven horses in the program. Chloe, a 17-year-old Quarter Horse/grade mare, is about to take client Erika out for her weekly session. “Erika has been riding Chloe for about a year now, but Erika’s been with the program for five years,” says Jeanna.

“Therapeutic riding is her only recreational activity during the week.”

Jeanna’s and the volunteers’ patience and compassion are evident as they quietly assist Erika at the mounting block, which is specially set up for those with physical limitations. Riders can easily mount, under supervision, while the horse is positioned alongside to accept the student. Two side-walkers stand on either side of the horse throughout the entire lesson. A horse leader with a rope lead is stationed at the horse’s left shoulder in front.

Lessons can be held in one of two outdoor rings, but given the warmth of the day, Jeanna decides on a trail session for both horse and rider’s comfort.

Simple obstacles, including a wide wooden bridge, a basketball hoop, mailboxes, and several soft foam pool noodles forming a colorful curtain across the trail are just a few of the challenges the riders will encounter.

“All the obstacles and adornments found along the trail have a purpose,” says Jeanna. “They’re meant to strengthen and enhance decision-making and communication abilities. Some cognitive skills, such as sequencing, staying on task, reinforcing color, number, and letter recognition exercises are worked on during each lesson.”

Jeanna’s second session is with Olivia, an energetic and vivacious sevenyear-old who has only been with the program for a few weeks. She’s riding Concho, a 22-year-old Quarter Horse gelding who has been on free lease with the program for three years. Games and activities with a purpose are all part of the lesson’s agenda. A game of “I Spy,” a stop at the basketball hoop, or a pause at the mailbox to touch and talk about one of the several objects hidden inside all serve to refine motor skills, and strengthen communication and language capabilities. Olivia is excited and happy as she finishes her time with Concho, and she can’t wait to tell her mom about the experience. Jeanna is pleased with Olivia’s accomplishments, as well as her interaction with Concho.

As the afternoon progresses, 16year-old Sarah has started her instruction on Jocasta, a 17-year-old Morgan. A smile of contentment and peace brightens Sarah’s face as she rides the mare.

Her mom watches her and says, “Sarah has done so well with Hidden Acres’s sensitive approach. She’s happier, her posture has improved, she’s learning self-confidence and how to self-advocate and communicate more effectively. She laughs because she is so tall that she doesn’t want to fall off the horse when mounting!

“The other stables that we tried were very stressful to her. The instructors did not show the patience we found here at Hidden Acres. They expected her to understand and respond at their rate and ride much more aggressively than she was ready for. It wasn’t where she needed to be. She would cry and come home feeling defeated. I wish every child and adult could experience Hidden Acres and the healing benefit of their horses and the gifted and skilled trainers. My daughter now finishes each lesson with a smile.”

Although there is a small fee for services at Hidden Acres Therapeutic

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As Mary Simons so eloquently says, “A horse doesn’t see a label on a person. The horse sees a human being and accepts a person for who they are. What we want kids to experience is life without a label. You’d be surprised what that means to each person. From four years old to eighty, equine-assisted therapy helps people — from physical or emotional challenges to a spectrum of other purposes, it doesn’t matter.”

To find out more about Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center, its many programs, staff, horses, volunteer, and donation opportunities, visit hiddenacrestrc.org.

Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.

Connecticut Horse

21

Mansfield by xx Stearns

Trail Guide

Mansfield Hollow State Park

by Stacey Stearns

M

in Mansfield and Route 6 in Windham.

Once on Bassetts Bridge Road, two options are available for trailer parking.

For three seasons of the year, the main entrance gates are open and you can drive in toward the picnic area and around the circular turnaround. Park on the edge of the fields that line the

Stacey Stearns

ansfield is the often forgotten parent town of Storrs, home of the University of Connecticut and the UConn Huskies. But Storrs is only one of the villages and census-designated places in town. To the south of Storrs is Mansfield Hollow State Park — with a quaint village that is on the National Historic Registry, a dam, the Kirby Mill, a lake, and Mansfield Hollow State Park. The trails and fields at Mansfield Hollow are open to Nutmeg equestrians, and are a favorite destination for many local riders.

Mansfield Hollow Lake covers 460 acres and was created when the Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Natchaug River. The lake covers what was known as Turnip Meadows, a swamp where the Fenton, Mount Hope, and Natchaug rivers met.

Once completed, flooding along the Quinebaug, Shetucket, and Thames rivers was also reduced.

The 251-acre state park was established in 1952. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) maintains it. DEEP has leased 2,300 acres in the area of the park from the Army Corps of Engineers. A map can be downloaded from ct.gov/deep/ lib/deep/stateparks/maps/ mansfieldhollow.pdf and printed at home, as maps aren’t always available at the park bulletin boards.

Vikki Fortier of Chaplin says, “We specifically chose our home on the Chaplin/Mansfield line nine years ago due to its convenient access to Mansfield Hollow State Park, which is one of my favorite horseback riding areas.” Vikki is the owner of Northeast Connecticut Farriers, has Morgans and Arabians, and enjoys endurance and competitive trail riding.

Access and Resources The parking lots are located off Bassetts Bridge Road, which connects Route 195 22

September/October 2016

paved driveway. Restrooms and a water fountain are available at the picnic area on a seasonal basis. During the winter, the main gates are closed and there’s only a small parking lot available along the road.

There is no fee to park at Mansfield Hollow State Park.

The other parking option is the boat launch, which is open year-round.

The dirt parking lot holds approximately 50 cars. This is just a half-mile drive from the main parking area and has lots of space, although it does fill with boat trailers on beautiful days. I try to arrive early when I think the lot may be crowded. There’s a porta-potty in this parking lot during the summer months.

Part of the reservoir is the public water supply for nearby Windham, so don’t allow your horse into the lake.

There’s a water pump at the main park-

ing area where you can fill water buckets for your horse. I always pack water for my horses.

Mansfield Hollow is a popular destination. In addition to boats on the reservoir, you’ll encounter dogs, families, games of Frisbee or other sports, and bicycles. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are favorite activities. The park also hosts occasional events such as 5Ks and dog field trials. A quick check of the Friends of Mansfield Hollow Facebook page or friendsofmansfield hollow.org will often provide a calendar noting the dates of these events. It’s best not to plan your ride on one of these days.

“In the main park, there’s much activity — hikers, children playing, fishing, boating, cycling, sporting events, dog walking, and more,” Vikki says.

“I keep in mind that most people are not horse comfortable or savvy, and I try to be respectful by keeping a safe distance from other activities. My horses don’t mind balls flying, kids yelling, and dogs barking. Mansfield Hollow is a good place for “bomb-proofing” your horse. Many people are excited to see horses. I keep my pace slow in the main park and allow people to ask questions and pet the horses.

And, as far as scenic, Mansfield Hollow is gorgeous!”

Trot On The trails are fairly well marked with their colors and signs for cross-country skiing. There are a variety of trails, from single track to park roads. Tree roots cross many of the trails and, similar to all parks from the glacial area, there is a fair amount of rocks. I recommend hoof protection.

“Of course I know the trails well from years of trail running, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and riding horses,” says Vikki. “But if you’re not familiar with the trails, it can be confus-

ing. Have a sense of adventure and get out there and scout around.”

Approximately 4.5 miles of trails are open to equestrians. The blue Nipmuck Trail and the blue and white Fenton Trail are both restricted to foot traffic only. The flood control levee is also foot-travel only. The remaining multiuse trails wind through fields, past the remnants of homesteads, and through pine dominated forests.

I’ve parked in both the boat launch and near the picnic area in the main park. The two are connected via the yellow trail. On my rides, I separate the park into sections, and ride each one, enjoying the unique aspects it offers.

Wildlife is abundant in the park, and the trees shade the trails, offering a break from the sun on hotter days.

The red trail and park roads on the south side of Bassetts Bridge Road take you up near the dam, which is impressive to see. There are about three miles of levee that walkers and runners enjoy, although the dam and lake separate the miles.

Next, I ride the north side of Bassetts Bridge Road where park roads, red trail, white trail, and yellow trail all offer something different to explore.

The yellow trail leads to a parking lot at one of the town baseball fields along Route 89.

Here I carefully cross Route 89 (look twice and proceed cautiously — this is a state road and cars travel fast).

Once across Route 89, I continue on the yellow trail over to the Fenton River where I enjoy riding across the river and letting my horse get a drink. From here, the yellow trail takes you up along the north side of Mansfield Hollow Lake.

Riding carefully back down Bassetts Bridge Road, you can cross the bridge over the lake, and go back into the boat launch parking lot.

Just like Vikki, I enjoy interacting with the other trail users at Mansfield Hollow and serving as an ambassador for all Nutmeg equestrians. Riders looking for more miles will find that Natchaug State Forest and Goodwin State Forest are nearby. My horses enjoy a mellow ride and the changing seasons at Mansfield Hollow State Park.

Although I’ve spent countless hours in the park, it never gets old.

Happy trails!

Waterbury

This Olde Horse

The Chase Rolling Mill’s Team, Waterbury. Published in 1910 by Danziger & Berman, New Haven.

Have a photo for This Olde Horse? Email

editor@connhorse.com.

Stalls for Lease The Connecticut Military Department has indoor stalls for lease at the Governor’s Horse Guard facilities in Avon and Newtown.

More than 10 stalls available at each location.

Avon

Newtown

Proceeds benefit the units of the Governor’s Horse Guard

For information & rates, visit www.ct.gov/mil/stall-lease

Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.

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Questions and Answers

by Andrea Bugbee

Nutmeg State Riders’

R

eady for more than your weekly riding lesson, but not sure about the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA)? To answer some of your questions, Connecticut Horse went right to the experts — middle and high school students already active in the team sport made for teens who love to ride.

The riders we interviewed are from both the Cavalier Farm team and Southeastern Connecticut team (SECT). They are Annie Fournier, 15, of Litchfield; Jordan Guilmart, 15, of Litchfield; Chelsea LeMoine, 17, of Roxbury; Julia Lineweber, 18, of Woodbury; and Hannah Roediger, 16, of Ledyard. Here’s what they had to say!

IEA Advice

phere for the first time is somewhat overwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s not only an honor to qualify, but it’s a great experience — no matter the outcome.

Connecticut Horse: How much does IEA cost?

Hannah: Each class is $40, and each person generally competes in two classes. Plus, there’s a coaching fee, which, for SECT, is $55. Practice fees vary per team. (Each team member must pay an annual $60 fee for association membership – CH)

Connecticut Horse: Getting to regionals, zones, and nationals is based on points. Can you explain?

Connecticut Horse: Who can join IEA?

In Stride Equine Photography

Hannah: We have riders that compete in levels ranging from Beginner Walk Trot Canter (with a Walk Trot class as a warm-up) to jumping 2' 6" (plus a corresponding flat class). The age range is from sixth to twelfth grade. I started in Beginner Walk Trot Canter in seventh grade and was still scared to canter.

Now, I’ve been to regionals four times, to zones three, and to nationals once.

Jordan: Points for IEA can be accumulated for both the individual and team.

First place is seven points, second place is five, third place is four, fourth place is three, fifth place is two, and sixth place is one.

To qualify for regionals, an individual needs 18 points per class, and a team needs 20 points. If a rider earns 22 points or more in a class during the show season, they “point out” and need to move up to the next level the following year. Teams get their points by having one point rider per class (regardless of the number of sections) that the coach picks before the show starts. Each rider is allowed to show in their class five times within the regular season.

Connecticut Horse: Wow! What are Connecticut Horse: What clothes do

IEA Nationals like?

you need for competition?

Jordan: Going to nationals is an amazing experience that allows you to not only see different parts of the country, but also to experience different judging styles. Every time I’ve gone to nationals, it’s been more exciting and I’ve gotten more comfortable riding at a higher competitive level. However, the first year I went, I was a little nervous; being in that atmos24

September/October 2016

Hannah: IEA requires the basic elements of a riding habit: Boots (tall or paddocks with garters), tan breeches or jodhpurs, a light-colored show shirt (white is preferred, but any light color is acceptable), black gloves, and a show coat. Plus, of course, a helmet. One nice thing about IEA is that no one really cares about brands as long as your attire is neat and clean.

Hannah: Many riders have either never shown before or they come from a show environment that is very individualized.

One of the first things that a new IEA rider learns is that this is a team sport.

Everyone roots for everyone else, we all hold horses, we all tack and untack, we all brave the cold of the winter season.

We are a team.

Connecticut Horse: What advice can you offer on how to be a good teammate?

Annie: To me, being a teammate means being supportive of your team members.

This was my first year of IEA and I didn’t really know anyone on the team when I joined. I’d never had a lot of show experience and I wasn’t that great when I started, but my fellow team members and friends supported me when I did poorly, and celebrated my victories with me. I’m so grateful to have such a determined and caring team, and I can't wait for next season!

Connecticut Horse: What's the best IEA advice you ever received?

Hannah: Ride as many horses as possible. IEA requires that its participants take one lesson per week and, although it’s important to ride as often as possible, the phrase quality over quantity comes to mind. I was told that the quality and diversity of my rides would contribute the most to my experience in IEA. In each lesson, if given the chance, ride a different horse and learn as much as you can. This increases your adaptability and makes you more successful in the IEA show ring.

Connecticut Horse: Is there anything Connecticut Horse: What is the thing most riders new to your team misunderstand, or come to quickly learn?

you can tell our readers that you wish someone had told you before your first IEA show?

Connecticut Horse: What have been the greatest challenges of IEA? What’s been the most fun?

Hannah: The most challenging aspect of IEA was also the most fun — the diversity of the horses. I had to learn how to ride horses that each had their own quirks. As soon as I got used to one horse, I was moved to another. But each horse taught me something that I was able to apply to a different horse later, and that has made me more successful.

Connecticut Horse: How do you practice?

Hannah: The SECT usually has large group practices, open to all members of the team (about 30 people). Each practice is focused on different things, and we play different games that help us — like a mock command class, or thread the needle. Each of our four fantastic coaches has different things they like to do; practice is never boring!

Litchfield Hills Photography

Chelsea: Stock up on hand and toe warmers, since much of the season takes place during the winter and it can be very chilly at a show all day long. Bring a comfortable chair and blanket and something to use to video your rounds. Ride as many different horses as you can; that way, you are more comfortable with the horse you draw.

Julia: At Cavalier Farm, we usually have riders with a wide range of experience, which is not typical of a regular group lesson. Before the lesson starts, every rider is assigned a horse, based on the areas the rider needs to work on. We may not always get to ride our favorites, but practicing on a horse that may be a bit more difficult definitely helps everyone improve, so they’re ready for anything an IEA show can throw at them. As we tack up, the team practices horsemanship skills like checking saddle fit, wrapping polos, and choosing what type of bit would be suitable for each horse. In the ring, our coach discusses both upcoming shows

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that we need to prepare for, as well as learning from past shows. Once everyone has slightly thawed from the winter chill, the lesson starts. In an IEA practice, no-stirrups is a staple exercise that our coach loves. After flatting, everyone jumps one course on the horse they started on, and then we switch horses twice, so that we ride for about two hours. The work doesn’t stop once we’re out of the saddle because, afterward, we have to take care of each horse and clean all of the tack that was used.

Having practices like this helps everyone on the team to not only become better riders, but to gain an ability to treat every horse with care and respect.

Connecticut Horse: What do you do to prep for an IEA show?

Chelsea: One to two days before an IEA show, our coach tries to schedule an extra practice. We also go over directions to the show and make any necessary carpool arrangements. We make sure to assign someone to bring snacks, keep track of points, and to take pictures throughout the day. When our team is hosting a show, in the week before, we work to make sure our

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September/October 2016

horses are well groomed, trimmed, and their tack is clean and organized.

Usually the team is in charge of setting up the ring the day before, and scheduling horse-holding for show day.

Connecticut Horse: Besides required items, is there anything else that’s handy to have at an IEA show?

Julia: IEA shows can hold many surprises, such as pop-up snow storms, broken boot zippers, and ponies that find new energy when the temperature drops. But there’re some things that can help a rider be prepared, and one of the most important is warm clothes. Bring a hat. Bring gloves. Bring both your parkas. Listen to your mom when she tells you that it’s cold, because riding with frozen toes is never fun. IEA shows are mainly held in the coldest months of winter, and indoor riding arenas are usually colder than it is outside. A thermos of hot chocolate is always welcome, and you’ll be a team favorite if you bring cookies for your teammates. Duct tape fixes everything, and you can never have too many boot rags. But the number

one item that holds the key to success in IEA is your attitude. Be optimistic no matter what horse you draw, confident in your riding, supportive to your teammates, and respectful whether you win or lose. If you keep doing this, people will recognize you to be a lot more than just a good rider.

Connecticut Horse: Anything else you’d like to mention?

Hannah: I love IEA because it gives people a chance to show horses when they might otherwise not be able to because of financial constraints or other circumstances. I’m incredibly proud to be a part of this organization.

Andrea Bugbee is a Pony Club mom, an IEA mom, and a backyard horse enthusiast. She does most of her writing while she waits for her daughter in the parking lots of numerous wonderful stables scattered throughout western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut.

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Mindful Connections

Connect with Your IEA Draw Horse for a Competitive Edge

by Nicole Birkholzer

A

re you riding on an Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team? If so, you will get to meet and ride a variety of horses, each with their own personality and skills.

Initially, you start connecting with the horses that belong to your team’s barn. Most likely, your horses have been part of the riding program for a while and have carried many riders. They’re professionals, know their job, and have a strong work ethic.

Over time, you’ll become familiar with their unique personalities, their quirks, and abilities while you get used to the tack and the new routines.

are riding. When you see the world through the horse’s eyes, you’ll create an instant connection with the horse because you can support him mindfully during your time together.

“Every horse that I rode had something to teach me and that’s what makes IEA so unique, getting to ride so many horses.” former rider, Hopkinton (RideIEA.org)

At the show, your horse will be determined by draw, and — without a warm up — you’ll pop yourself into an unfamiliar saddle, pick up the reins, and enter the class, keeping your fingers crossed that you and the horse are a good match and can impress the judge.

It might appear as though your level of success in the ring is tied to the luck of the draw, but there is something you can do to give a competitive edge to yourself and the horse you

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September/October 2016

There are a couple of things to consider when you think about lesson horses. School horses are often owned or leased by the farm or stable. So,

unlike horses that live in people’s backyards or at boarding barns, school horses do not get a lot of individualized attention from one person.

A horse that lives in the backyard or boarding barn is attended to by the same person morning, noon, and night. They get to hang out and ride with their owner and develop a deep bond that evolves over many years.

A school horse does not have the same lifestyle. Although they might have the same person feed them each day and clean their stall, many are handled by different people throughout the day.

One week, you’ll be riding the beautiful bay and, in next week’s lesson, one of your teammates is riding her while you are asked to ride the dapple gray.

From the team’s perspective, this makes sense. Your goal is to improve your riding on different horses. For the horse, it makes less sense because, as a creature of habit, the challenge is getting used to new riders every day — different styles of riding, body postures, and levels of experience.

Because a school horse has so much to take in, they often learn a variety of ways to cope with all the newness and change.

Some horses close themselves off from the commotion, and

become somewhat unresponsive and withdrawn. Connecting with them before your ride can be challenging.

Other horses express their sense of being overwhelmed by getting antsy.

Their adrenaline level rises as they dance around the arena, looking for an outlet for the nervous energy that’s surging through their bodies.

When you look through the eyes of your lesson horse, and consider the stress/tension this lifestyle can have on him, you can easily understand that there’s one thing any horse would love to experience — connection with a calm and consistent person.

And that can be you, and your ticket to a great ride.

Here are some tips on how you can instantly be that calm and consistent person for your lesson horse, and for the horses you are paired with at IEA shows.

1. Before you enter the barn for your lesson, take a moment to remember that no matter how the horse displays himself, there’s one thing he longs to do — connect with a person who cares about him.

2. When you enter the horse’s stall or paddock, stop and take a deep, abdominal breath. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth, and clear your mind so you can be truly present with the sentient being standing in front of you.

3. If you are tacking up by yourself, take another deep breath and ask your horse to please put his nose in the halter. At first, he might not respond. After all, most people don’t give the horse a chance to join in on the fun of his own accord. But if you take another deep breath — or two — the horse might start leaning toward you, indicating he is ready for the tack.

4. Now, instead of marching off right away, horse in tow, take another deep breath and invite your horse to follow you down the aisle.

5. As you walk together, you have one more opportunity to connect. Put your hand on your horse’s withers, or the spot where the neck and shoulder meet — both those areas are locations where joints, tendons, and nerves connect.

Laying your hand on those areas and taking a deep breath will offer your horse a calming touch and relax his nervous system.

Connecticut Horse

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We always have a nice selection of horses and ponies for sale!

AUCTIONS & SALE HORSES

Horses and ponies coming back from summer work.

Watch videos and view photos at heritagefarmeasthampton.com!

Stay tuned to our website and Facebook pages for updates!

8. As you line up facing the ringmaster, or leave the arena after your over-fences or reining class, take another deep breath, whisper a little “thank you” to the horse, and present yourself and your horse as a team.

EVENTS

New England Stock Horse Shows: September 11 . November 6 WNEPHA Hunter Show: October 2

Open to buy, sell, or trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment.

Nice Horses for Nice People.

The Raucher Family 30 Florence Rd., Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 heritagefarmeasthampton.com State Auctioneer license # AU450.

6. At your lesson and your horse show class, take another deep breath before you step up into the saddle, and hold the intention that you will do your part to make this the best ride this horse can have. A good ride always starts with a breath. When you take a deep conscious breath, your body becomes more relaxed. When your body is relaxed, your horse can be supple, sense your body and cues, and anticipate your next move.

7. Upon entering the arena, be aware of the small-but-significant opportuni30

September/October 2016

the next jump, making you both a harmonious team that’s apparent to the judges.

When entering a reining class, you can sharpen your spins and slides a lot if you take a conscious breath at the right time. Because holding your breath will drop the connection between you and your horse, be sure to breathe continuously as you are increasing momentum in your spin. As for the slide, inhale as you build up speed and exhale to ensure a deep-seated and balanced stop that impresses the judge.

ties to connect with your horse. In a flat class, before you transition from walk to trot, and trot to canter, breathe deeply into your seat for a strong connection with your horse.

For a smooth downward transition, use an exhale to give your horse notice that a change in tempo is coming.

If you’re entering an over-fences class, match your inhale and exhale with the rise and fall of each jump. As you approach the first fence, inhale. As you descend on the other side, exhale.

The horse will sense your ability to match his rhythm and he’ll look for it at

9. After your lesson, on your way back to the barn, thank the horse for his willingness to participate. Trust that he, just like you, did his best. Then, as you untack, take another breath or two and rest your hand on the horse’s neck or shoulder. The horse might drop his head or lick and chew, wonderful signs that he appreciated your connection, and a sign that he released some of the tension he acquired during the lesson.

Releasing that tension will make him more comfortable as he goes through the rest of his day.

“I can’t believe how quickly the horse I was partnered with connected with me when I used your breathing technique.”

Marlie Maze

When you connect with each horse in this mindful way, you’ll recognize how much your relationship with every horse will grow and evolve. Horses love it when you are present. They only know how to live in the present moment and when you meet them in that space, through a conscious breath and by engaging in this kind manner, horses are always willing to stretch a little farther, jump a little higher, and dig a little deeper for you.

Nicole Birkholzer, animal intuit, author, relationship coach for horses and humans offers her Mindful Connections® approach through workshops, her writings, webinars, and podcasts.

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Overherd

News in Our Community with more than one person with her at a time.

Sassy and Amara are both barefoot and up to date on everything. The adoption fee for each is $900.

Spectators also enjoyed

The Humane Organization Representing Suffering Equines (H.O.R.S.E.) of Connecticut, located in Washington, held a H.O.R.S.E. Showing on Saturday, August 6. Many of the organization’s horses were featured under saddle or shown in hand for the afternoon event. Patty Wahlers, the organization’s president, presented the background histories, some insights, and commentary on each of the horses as they entered the outdoor ring.

H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut volunteers took turns showing the riding skills and talents of several of the horses available for adoption. Sassy and Amara were nd under saddle and in hand. Both are Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mustang mare rescues that are adapting very well to their new surroundings.

Amara stands at 13.3 hands and was rescued from a kill pen in Oklahoma. She rides English, western, and bareback. Although she’s still learning to stand at a mounting block, she has a lovely walk and trot and some cantering skills. She goes solo, leads, follows, and her ideal rider would be 135 pounds or less. Amara loves to be groomed and is also good with kids and dogs.

Sassy (Sassafras) was rescued with Amara. She’s 17years-old and is 13.2 hands.

She has a quiet walk and trot in the ring and is solid on the trails with others. She has done some solo rides with the H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut riding program. She rides English and western with a wide saddle. She’s an easy keeper, wants to be good, but tends to be a bit nervous 32

versatility. Gus was diagnosed with kissing spine — a condition in which the horse feels low-grade pain because the sections of bones attached to the vertebrae are too close together and impinge on

Amy Williams

H.O.R.S.E. Showing

September/October 2016

Reggie, an 18-year-old buckskin warmblood is a retired show horse at H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut. He’s not ready for adoption yet but he’s available for sponsorship.

watching the gentle playfulness of Duke, a 19-hand registered Belgian, and his gorgeous Thoroughbred paddock mate, Fiona, as they both took a few frolicsome laps around the ring.

Molly, a 32-inch Miniature Horse filled with an abundance of personality and spunk, joined her adorable companion pony, Sweet Pea, and entertained the crowd with a playful jaunt in the ring. Baron and Bronson wowed the audience with their agility, gracefulness, and strength, as well as their amiable temperaments. Both are Belgian/ Quarter Horse crosses.

Gus, a five-year-old offthe-track Thoroughbred gelding; Justice, a Quarter Horse/Connemara gelding; and Star, a Morgan/ Arabian cross gelding, performed perfectly, displaying not only their capabilities, but their

each other. But this ailment can be managed with injections, massage, chiropractic, 24-hour turnout (with hills), and light riders for flatwork and trails.

Next up was Moses, a strikingly handsome 16.3hand warmblood gelding, and Scout, a stunning black and white draft/Paint cross gelding. Both dazzled the audience with their power and beauty. The afternoon ended with Summer, an elegant Westphalian mare, followed by an energetic and athletic performance by Abby, a sweet 19-year-old Quarter Horse mare. She’s 14 hands, barefoot, and low maintenance. She goes English, western, and bareback on trails and will go solo, lead, or follow, at a walk, trot, and some cantering. Abby was a gymkhana horse and she's looking for a riding partner who’s an

advanced beginner and up.

Abby has been ridden on the trails by 12-year-olds and older. She comes with most of her gear and her adoption fee is $800.

Reggie (The Regulator) is an 18-year-old warmblood retired show horse who is not yet ready for adoption but he’s available for sponsorship. Standing at 16.3 hands and a handsome buckskin, Reggie is presently working on perfecting his flatwork skills in the ring, and has started some light trail riding. His ideal rider would weigh 175 or less.

Would you like to know more about the H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut’s horses and adoption, sponsorship, and leasing options? Are you interested in volunteering, upcoming events, and donating? Visit horseofct.org. n Sally L. Feuerberg

Hidden Brook Stables Adding a familiar face to its professional staff, Hidden Brook Stables in Lebanon announced that Allie Leonard is now part of the barn team. Allie has been a member of the HBS family for many years, and has a background in teaching therapeutic riding at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center in Old Lyme. She’s also spent several years in the show ring and is now looking forward to instructing riders who love the sport as much as she does. Good luck, Allie! n Karena Garrity

Ox Ridge Hunt Club Charity Horse Show The day featured a radiant blue, cloudless sky, accompanied by just enough of a mild breeze to create the ideal temperature for any outdoor activity imaginable. It couldn’t

Prix event began and 40 riders navigated a challenging and thrilling course. At the end of the first round, ten of the horse and rider teams achieved clear rounds and it was on to the jump off! The crowd was enthralled by the intense competition. Skara Glen’s Presence, trained and ridden by Ireland’s Paul O’Shea, placed first (Paul now lives in the United States). South Street, ridden

seat equitation competition, and visiting South Africa.

“My first international competition was the best experience of my life,” Molly says.

“It was so exciting to do what I love in a foreign place while representing my country. We all felt so much pride promoting and representing saddle seat riding in South Africa!”

Several members of her family traveled with the team

Kate Codeanne

have been more perfect for one of Connecticut’s most prestigious and historic equestrian events, the 85th Annual Ox Ridge Hunt Club Charity Horse Show and $25,000 Grand Prix.

On Saturday, June 18, hundreds of spectators enjoyed all the day’s offerings, including numerous craftsman, equestrian equipment and clothing vendors, food venues, and the iconic white VIP tent with the traditional elegant Grand Prix Luncheon. Throughout the morning and afternoon’s festivities, the pavilion was filled with laughter, smiles, reminiscing, and a lot of catching up with longtime friends.

While focused horse and rider teams were intently practicing in the warm-up rings situated throughout the hunt club’s majestic property, coaches and trainers voiced words of approval, advice, and various suggestions to students to enhance their ride. Grooms attended to the equestrian athletes with a gentle touch, a wipe down, or any possible equipment adjustment necessary to ensure the animal’s utmost well-being. Much appreciated family and friends were also on hand to lend moral support and words of encouragement to the participants.

Throughout the day, contests were held in the Ridge Ring and the Griffin Ring, and both featured Junior and Children Medal, Hunter, and Equitation classes. A Lead Line class was held just prior to the afternoon’s premier event in the Grand Prix Ring. As some of the youngest, smallest, and most adorable equestrians rode their mounts into the ring, the crowd couldn’t help but cheer for these future hunter and jumper riders.

Stuffed animals and ribbons were awarded to all on a day these little ones will never forget.

At 1:30 p.m., the Grand

aspect of the competition was adjusting to the horses,” Molly says. “All of their commands were different from the commands we use in the United States. After a little practice, we were all able to adjust to the difference.”

“I would encourage any young saddle seat rider to work toward trying out for the USEF Young Rider or World Cup teams,” says Molly, a high school senior who also celebrated her 17th birthday in South Africa.

“Our sport is mainly focused on individual skills and it’s a great experience to ride as part of a team. Our focus was on our efforts together and not as individuals. From the try-out process to actually competing with teammates against other countries, any young saddle seat rider would benefit from this amazing experience.” n Suzy Lucine

Molly Codeanne of Wethersfield, a member of the gold medal United States Saddle Seat Team at the International Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup held in South Africa.

by New York City’s Georgina Bloomberg took second place.

n Sally L. Feuerberg

Saddle Seat Rider Wins Gold in Africa The United States Saddle Seat Team recently competed in the International Saddle Seat Equitation World Cup, held at the Mistico Equestrian Centre in South Africa, July 7 to 9. The 12 American riders delivered excellent performances against teams from Canada, Namibia, and South Africa.

Under the guidance of coaches David Cater, Pam Roush, and Kent Swalla, the three-gaited section won gold and the coveted World Cup trophy, while the fivegaited section won silver.

Molly Codeanne of Wethersfield was a member of the three-gaited team.

Molly thoroughly enjoyed her first international saddle

to offer their support. The group included her mother, Kate Harvey Codeanne, and her grandparents, Lynn and Rick McNamara.

The athletes had two days to practice riding and familiarize themselves with the horses they chose in a draw.

“The team performed very well under pressure in the 2016 World Cup,” says coach David Cater. “It’s not easy for the riders to perform on horses that they’ve hardly ridden, and our team did a fabulous job with the horses we paired them with.

We couldn’t be more proud of the team as a whole, and both the three- and fivegaited teams had brilliant performances. More importantly, they came together as a team which made the whole event more meaningful.”

“The most challenging

Holsteiner Back in Business Let’s Dance, better known as Dancer — a 15-year-old Holsteiner owned by Dallas Maddox — is back in business. After a broken coffin bone sent the dressage horse into what was believed to be an early retirement, no one believed the horse would work again. But thanks to the efforts of Dr. Heather Beach and farrier Patrick Stanton, Dancer is back.

After five years off the show circuit, Dancer is being trained and worked by Kelsey Stinneford. Kelsey, 25, has her British Horse Society Certification and is aiming her goals toward the USDF bronze medal. Kelsey’s work focuses in dressage and the benefits of cross-training.

On June 26, at Five Oaks Equestrian Center, Dancer and Kelsey took the blue with a score of 71.5 percent in Dancer’s first dressage show since his injury. n Christine Church

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Shaq, was inducted into the Connecticut Morgan Horse Show Hall of Fame earlier this year. Shaq, foaled in 1998, was bred by Stephen and Anette Smith of Ultra Morgans. In 2002, Gail Bratz of Stove Prairie Ranch purchased him. Trainer Kathy Shorten did well with him in their first full season together in the Open English Pleasure division, but that was just the beginning.

The Connecticut Renegades hosted its Summer Sizzler Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition that certainly lived up to its name on Sunday, July 17, at the Old Bethany Airport. Although the heat and humidity tried to dominate the day, you wouldn’t know it, given the energy level and enthusiasm of both horse and rider.

For those new to Cowboy Mounted Shooting, it’s one of the nation’s fastest growing equestrian sports.

Contestants compete in the timed event using two .45 caliber single-action revolvers loaded with five rounds of specially prepared blank ammunition. The Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA) has a variety of levels of competition for everyone, ranging from novice to the seasoned professional.

All the participants dressed in western attire, which is a requirement of the sport. Some were dressed in traditional western style, and many of the men and women were dressed in the style of the late 1800s. The traditional style consisted of a long-sleeved western shirt, five-pocket blue jeans covered by chinks or chaps, western boots, and a cowboy hat. Some of the female competitors wore the classic attire of the 19th century — a full-length, full skirt or dress matched with a periodappropriate style shortsleeved top.

Needless to say, it all added up to a day full of excitement, skill, fashion, speed, and pure fun for contestants and spectators alike.

To learn more, visit ctrenegades.com. n Sally L. Feuerberg

Ultras Proclaimation Inducted into Hall of Fame Ultras Proclaimation GCH, affectionately known as 34

September/October 2016

Junior Exhibitor English Pleasure Championship at New England Morgan, three Grand National titles, and one Reserve World Championship.

In 2008, it was time for Adriana to move on, so the gelding was sold. Shaq was purchased at the Grand National for Nena Marlin, by her parents. He instantly clicked with Nena, and everyone knew that Shaq needed

Shane Shiflet

Cowboy Mounted Shooting Summer Sizzler

Rich Thompson drove Mr. Ed to the Amateur Road Pony Championship at the Devon Horse Show.

That year, during the Open English Pleasure Stallions and Geldings class at the Morgan Grand National, the chestnut gelding caught the eye of trainer David Rand. This happened while David was showing a horse in the same class.

David came back to his stable area and told Adriana Liberty to go to where “the big chestnut” was stabled, and tell them that if the horse could be purchased, he wanted to be first in line.

Little did 14-year-old Adriana know that David had this big bold horse in mind for her to show.

Shaq started the 2004 show season under the direction of David Rand, and at the Vermont Morgan Show, Adriana began what turned out to be a great five-year show career with her gelding. Over the years, Adriana and Shaq won up and down the East Coast, including the

to be her new equitation mount. Under the direction of Nikki Rae Woodworth of KGA Morgans, Nena accomplished some of her biggest show dreams, including wins in the AMHA Saddle Seat Medal at New England and in Junior Exhibitor English Pleasure, with a great third place finish in the World Senior Saddle Seat Equitation Championship.

With Nena in college for the next few years, Shaq was teamed up with multiple riders, helping them accomplish their goals in the equitation divisions. Hayley Porter, still under the direction of KGA, finished reserve in the Senior Equitation at New England. From there, Shaq went on to Vintage Valley Morgans, with Lindsey Atkinson and trainer Coby Holowacz, first as a mount for Amber Brown and then Tayler Nichols. There seems to be a pattern here, because

both girls had wildly successful seasons with Shaq. Amber won all over New England, and Tayler won her age group at the Morgan Grand National.

Once Nena graduated from college, she decided to show her gelding one last year before entering graduate school. Adriana and her husband, Spencer Day, had opened up their own training business, Lakefront Farm, and Nena sent Shaq back to his original partner for training. They had a fun year in the Youth English Pleasure division. In 2015, his final year showing, Shaq was teamed with Adele Werner, just newly graduated from the Academy division.

Together they won at the Connecticut Morgan Show, and achieved Adele’s dream of winning the Junior Exhibitor English Pleasure 14–17 Championship at New England Morgan.

Adrianna wanted Shaq to finish his show career as a champion, so she chose to retire him fresh off his New England Morgan win. Shaq is now enjoying his welldeserved retirement in the biggest stall at Lakefront Farm, spending many of his days out to play, but he’s also contributing to Lakefront’s lesson and academy program.

Everyone who’s been in this grand horse’s life can agree that he is one in a million. n Suzy Lucine

Nutmeg State at Devon Among the more than 250 victory passes made during the 120th annual Devon Horse Show and Country Fair (May 26–June 5) in Devon, Pennsylvania, a few had ties to Connecticut.

Rich Thompson of Simsbury enjoyed his Devon experience, driving Mr. Ed to win the Amateur Road Pony Championship. Rich shows under the direction of Luman Wadhams Stable.

Michael and Sally Kropp

of North Franklin are excited about this show season with their new Saddlebred, Ya Think.

Ridden by Jan Lukens of Lukens Stable, the talented gelding was the Reserve Open Three-Gaited Park Champion.

Devon is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia's prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent, internationally. It also includes the country fair, which offers outstanding shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options, and special entertainment events.

The mass, along with some teeth, will need to be removed.”

Dixie and Rachel competed August 5 and 6 in Topsfield, Massachusetts, and placed fourth in Adult Handling and Conditioning and 13th out of 25 in the final placings. Rachel adopted Dixie after the competition and has Dixie’s surgery scheduled with Dr. Limone and Dr. Baratt.

rider: Ranch Pleasure, Reining, Trail, Cattle Work, and Ranch Handiness in four divisions: Open, NonPro, Novice, and Youth.

Judges for the day were Missy Santos, Robin Norton, Scott and Pattie Foehrenbach, and Janice Crotta. Robin Sousa and Kacey Crotta efficiently handled the show’s secretarial duties. Jen Uscilla, Chip Norton, Paul and Bo Crotta, Paula Tilquist, Rick

Rescued Mustang with Bad Tumor Competes in Mustang Challenge She is known as mare #5788 and she hails from the Stone Cabin Herd Management Area in Tenopa, Nevada. But to Rachel Fleury the mare is Dixie, a four-year-old Mustang only a few months out of the wild. Rachel trained Dixie for the Extreme Makeover Mustang Challenge, a 100-day training competition started by the Mustang Heritage Foundation.

But there was a big problem. “Dixie has a large tumor growing under her gums,” says Rachel. “It’s about the size of an apple.”

It’s a rare type of tumor called a plasma cell granuloma, or inflammatory pseudotumor, and Rachel raised money to have it removed and biopsied. “I started a Go Fund Me,” says Rachel, “and was able to raise just over $2,000 in less than 24 hours.” With this, she was be able to get the first of what will be many vet visits to get this tumor cared for. “We had Dr. Beach out from Atlantic Equine to X-ray and biopsy Dixie’s mouth.

Tim Reid

n Suzy Lucine

Rachel Fleury and Mustang mare Dixie at the Extreme Mustang Makeover.

“Dixie has earned some down time and we’ll be playing at liberty and taking some bareback rides but she won’t be too active until after surgery,” says Rachel. n Christine Church

New England Stock Horse Show SaddleView Farm and C & S Ranches in Bethany hosted a New England Stock Horse Show on Sunday, July 17.

Classes included a Ranch Handiness Class designed to measure the ability of the horse to perform a variety of ranch-related tasks in a relatively short period of time.

Horses were judged on manners, obedience, and style in each section. In the Working Cow Horse Class, teams demonstrated the capability and talent of a model western stock horse’s ability to do cow work.

The New England Stock Horse Series offers five individually-judged classes to a ranch-broke horse and his

Weisnewski, and Steve Sousa provided additional help and support.

Some exciting events are coming up for SaddleView Farm, including its official grand opening September 17 and 18. To learn more, visit the SaddleView Facebook page. n Sally L. Feuerberg

Mashamoquet Brook State Park and Natchaug State Forest Penny Foisey, CHC-VHP coordinator for Mashamoquet State Park and Pomfret private lands, worked with the DEEP to create a 20-mile trail system, connecting state and private lands. Tom Nosal of DEEP was instrumental in helping to make this a reality and creating the map.

Beginning in the fall of 2014, working closely with DEEP Park Supervisor Lori Lindquist, Pomfret Horse and Trail was able to resurrect an old section of trail in

Mashamoquet Brook State Park.

This trail connects Wolf Den Drive to Baker Hollow and Barrett Ridge trails, creating a loop of approximately six miles. About half this trail has been permanently marked red blaze. In the future, the Wolf Den Drive to Baker Hollow section will be red blazed. The DEEP will also be mapping the entire loop to include in their maps. This is some excellent woods-riding, with old homesteads and beautiful stone walls. You actually feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this long ago abandoned settlement. You can find the Baker Hollow Trail as a road on the circa 1869 Pomfret map. Barrett Ridge is an amazing old cart path that climbs one of the highest ridges in town. Leaving the park, you enter onto a piece of property the town purchased to conserve, in hopes of creating a trail into the state park. The town has supported these efforts to expand the trail network.

Crossing Jericho Road to the north side, you continue on the red blaze trail through another town piece into New England Forestry’s Chase/Kimball Preserve, then eventually onto the Airline Trail. You literally can ride all day from this point.

All you need is time. To see a map, visit ct.gov/deep/lib/deep/state parks/maps/mashamoquetnatchaug.pdf.

Fairfield County Hunt Club June Benefit Show As you drive through one of the majestic stone wall entrances to the scenic grounds of the Fairfield County Hunt Club (FCHC) in Westport, you can’t help but be captivated by its rambling beauty. Included in the 40 picturesque acres are stables, an indoor riding arena, and a clubhouse that’s more reminiscent of a stately country home. Strategically Connecticut Horse

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placed chairs and tables on the veranda invite visitors to sit for a while and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.

From Tuesday, June 21 through Saturday, June 25, the FCHC hosted the 92nd Annual June Benefit Show, the largest — and one of the state’s most celebrated — equestrian events. Benefiting the EQUUS Foundation, the show has earned the distinction of being one of the most beautiful and prestigious shows in the country, and it attracts world-class riders as well as aspiring equestrians of all ages.

The premier event is Saturday’s $30,000 Grand Prix and for rider Paul O’Shea, you can say he definitely put the ultimate finishing touch on a spectacular day. Not only did he win the previous week’s Grand Prix at Ox Ridge Hunt Club’s Charity Horse Show, but he also took top honors in the afternoon’s contest, riding Terciera. Paul’s clear course completion had the crowd mesmerized as he battled an initial field of 23 riders in the first round. In the second round jump-off involving eight of the original competitors, the high-powered pair turned in an astonishing finishing time. To add to the already heightened sense of excitement and enthusiasm of the hundreds of spectators, only five-tenths of a second separated Paul from second place finisher Andrew Kocher, riding the agile and elegant Esconial.

To learn more about the FCHC and its events, visit huntclubonline.org. n Sally L. Feuerberg

Multi-Use Trail Work Party The Lower Connecticut River Valley Horsemen’s Club (LCRVHC), the Bridle Path Conservancy, Connecticut Forest and Parks Association (CFPA), and the central Connecticut chapter of the New England Mountain Biking Association 36

September/October 2016

(NEMBA) once again teamed up on June 4 for the 10th Annual Combined Arms Multi-Use Trail Work Party. They worked at Pattaconk Recreation Area on trails that had been damaged. Melissa Evarts, president of LCRVC, reported that, “Our National Trails

for the first time, or who are looking to get back in the saddle again. The farm’s monthly Filly Nights are filled with fun and laughter, as well as tacking up, grooming, and riding. The evening includes a group lesson and culminates with a pot luck after the ride. The cost is $20

LIndsay Freschi working on 26-year-old Arabian gelding Too Darn Cute at her Equine Bodywork and Massage Clinic at KB Equine in Meriden.

Day event was an unqualified success! It was a perfect day — cool enough to work and no rain this year. Twenty-four volunteers of these combined organizations worked on the yellow and yellow/ blue trails, blazing, clipping, brushing, and rerouting a couple of sections on the trail.” This trail will need more work and will be an ongoing project for CFPA and their volunteers, as well as future Trail Day work parties.

LCRVHC members Bill and Kathy Schuyler acted as hosts for the picnic following the work party, grilling, and protecting the food from the gypsy worms! A free raffle followed the picnic, with prizes ranging from books to first-aid kits and hats.

CFPA held 222 events across the state in 133 towns.

This was again the largest National Trails event in the country.

Filly Night at Ray of Light Ray of Light Farm in East Haddam is offering a special program for women of all ages who want to try riding

per person. To learn more, call (860) 873-1895.

n Karena Garrity

Equine Bodywork and Massage Clinic Lindsay Freschi gave an Equine Bodywork and Massage Clinic on July 9 at KB Equine (Once Again Farm) in Meriden, hosted by Katie Bogaert. Lindsay is a certified equine sports massage therapist in Wallingford, and specializes in equine massage, red light therapy, and myofascial release. In addition, her equine clients include horses that may be recuperating from injuries or illnesses and are now in the process of rehabilitation.

Lindsay also advocates and incorporates the use of essential oils for optimum equine wellness in her practice.

Lindsay began the day’s session with an overall body analysis of the horse. She then demonstrated and explained some of her techniques and methods on her 26-year-old Arabian gelding, Too Darn Cute (or D.C., as she affectionately calls him).

She’d ridden D.C. as a teenager, and she adopted him after graduating from the University of Connecticut.

She was inspired to become an equine massage therapist due to D.C.’s many issues that were resolved through equine massage therapy.

The proper application, blending, and advantages of essential oils were demonstrated and discussed, as well as how to evaluate muscle tightness and tension in the horse’s body. Lindsey identified individual areas and muscle groups that should be addressed. She also showed the correct placement of hands, starting at the horse’s poll and following through to the tail. She then performed light, medium, and heavy compressions, and emphasized the importance of stretching the legs and shoulder groups, and walking the horse after the session for at least 5 to 10 minutes.

The application and benefits of equine kinesiology tape or rock tape were reviewed, as well as the correct way to cut and place the tape on the horse’s body.

The tape is used to reduce or control pain, manage swelling or edema, increase joint range of motion, and improve muscle function. It can also maintain a level of functionality and comfort for the horse during rehabilitation.

Participants at the event were able to have Lindsay evaluate their own horses and be administered to accordingly, with massage, essential oils, light therapy, and taping. It was an experience truly enjoyed by the horses and much appreciated by their owners. n Sally L. Feuerberg

Hall Show Horses The dynamite duo of Hall Show Horses is moving to Connecticut this fall.

Christopher and Nicole Hall have been riding and work-

75 Hartford Road, Simsbury, CT (860) 658-9943 www.follyfarm.us Connecticut Horse

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ing with horses since they were kids.

Nicole is a Nutmeg State native, riding with Connecticut staples such as Karen Baldwin, Mary Trowbridge, and Bill Melendez. Originally from the West Coast, Chris grew up riding with his father, Kit Hall, who’s also a horseman and trainer. Chris has worked for notable barns, such as Becker Stables and Chris Culbreth, before going out on his own as a professional. Chris and Nicole were most recently in Pennsylvania, running Rock Ledge Arabians for owner Ray Price. As Ray wants to cut down on the training business, Chris and Nicole are ready to move out on their own and continue training and showing under their Hall Show Horses moniker.

Chris and Nicole will be moving to Far Meadow Farm in Morris, and are accepting horses beginning in September. They’re a primarily Arabian and Half-Arabian training barn, working specifically with western and hunter pleasure performance horses, but will be offering lessons, training, and showing on the Arabian breed circuit.

n Suzy Lucine

38 September/October 2016

Dan James Clinic Dan James, of Double Dan Horsemanship, was the guest clinician at a three-day clinic held at the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard facility on Friday, July 8 to Sunday, July 10 in Newtown.

Although the weather was a bit challenging at times — ranging from high humidity to threatening downpours and thunderstorms — it didn’t deter the 11 participants and numerous auditors from enjoying the weekend. The clinic’s main theme was incorporating ground control and under-saddle work exercises to not only enhance the riding experience, and to strengthen the relationship between horse and rider.

In 2008, Dan James was recognized as a world-class colt trainer when he won the Way of the Horse at Equitana Asia Pacific. In 2012, Dan

won the coveted Road to the Horse International Colt Starting World Champion title. His many achievements and accolades include Mustang Millionaire finalist, top five at the 2013 Kentucky Gold Cup Reining Freestyle Champion, and the Quarter Horse Congress Freestyle Champion in 2014.

Friday opened with introductions, and attendees spoke with Dan about the horses they’d brought with them to the clinic, and what they would like to work on and achieve. Ground manners, panic issues, building confidence, and regaining control under saddle were among the topics discussed.

Groups were split into two throughout the weekend as they alternated their time in the outdoor ring for morning and afternoon sessions.

Dan and his assistant, Colton Woods, were able to provide

individualized attention to each horse and rider team.

They started with demonstrations of lateral flexion exercises to encourage the horse’s proper self carriage, softening, bending, lightness, and collection. Riders learned how to employ these exercises with groundwork and then apply what was learned to become better horsemen under saddle.

As Sunday arrived and the afternoon session concluded, the new positive energy and confident attitude of all participants confirmed that Dan had helped with the development of new-found human and horse communication abilities.

n Sally L. Feuerberg

Ranch Sorting in Middlesex County

Middlefield to weekend ranch sorting practices.

Ranch sorting puts a team of two riders against the clock to cut out the correct cattle and drive them to a pen while keeping the wrong numbered cattle back. If you are in the area and looking for a cowboy experience, try a ranch sorting practice or go for a trail ride.

n Karena Garrity

Overherdisms • “Oh my, we’re going to go through a lot of wine.”

• “You don’t have to look pretty, you just have to get around.”

• “When I grow up, I want to be a teenager.”

• “It’s getting to where she doesn’t scare me when she rides that horse.”

Triangle A Stables recently opened its barn doors at 327 Jackson Hill Road in

Equestrian Estate in Greenwich, Connecticut Handsomely private 9.8-acre estate nestled behind stone walls along 1,500 feet of frontage on Lake Avenue across from prestigious Conyers Farm. This level and gently rolling property has been in the same family since the late 1940s. It offers a rare opportunity for anyone with equestrian interests or with a dream to build an elegant country home on one or both of the two contiguous lots with frontage on Lake Avenue (4.5 acres and 5.3 acres.) Includes a 50' x 110' indoor riding arena, large paddocks, 12 stalls, related structures, four bedroom farm house with guest cottage and heated pool. Beautifully framed and quintessentially Greenwich. $4,750,000.

William Leute Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 189-191 Mason Street, Greenwich, CT 06830 O: 203.661.9200 C: 203.296.0795 william.leute@cbmoves.com

Connecticut Horse

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Partners

Connecticut Horse Council CHC is asking for a volunteer to sit on the Connecticut Greenways Council. Jan Collins, the CHC Greenways representative, has served on this state council since 2009 and would like to retire from the position. Jan has served many years on several committees, including CHC Trails and the volunteer horse patrol, Equine Advisory Council, DEEP Recreational Trails, and on committees in her own town.

In 1999, she received a Greenways Lifetime Achievement Award for her work in helping to preserve trails in Somers.

Members of the Connecticut Greenways Council are appointed by the governor and the leaders of the General Assembly. Duties include advising and assisting local, state, regional, and recreational organizations, as well as private citizens, in the technical aspects of planning, designing, and implementing greenways. This includes advice on securing state, federal, and nongovernmental grants, and establishing criteria for designation of greenways.

The council reviews applications and awards grants submitted for the Recreational Trails Program.

The meetings are held every other month on the second Monday at 9:30 a.m. at the 40

September/October 2016

The Connecticut Morgan Horse Association (CMHA)

now qualified to compete in the AMHA Youth-of-the-Year Contest at the Grand National Morgan Horse Show in Oklahoma in October. The reserve champion was Victoria Ricci. In the Junior division, the champion was Libby Lukas and reserve was Emily Roberts. Brianna Guadalupe won the Walk Trot division, with reserve going to Emma Rose Greenwood.

7Suzy Lucine

Connecticut Renegades Cowboy Mounted Shooting Club Pat Aresco and Boone at the Granby Horse Council’s Obstacle Play Day where they won the jackpot with a perfect score and best time.

Jeanne Lewis Images

Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Nutmeg State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program. Connecticut organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member; space in the magazine for news, events, and photographs; and a link from connhorse.com to its website.

Interested? To learn more, email partners@connhorse.com.

Connecticut Morgan Horse Association

Diane Topshe Anderson

Eversource (formerly Northeast Utilities) meeting room, located at 107 Selden Street, Berlin. Members have

Paige Forsyth of West Granby on Missouri at a Connecticut Renegades Cowboy Mounted Shooting Match where she moved up to the Ladies 3 division.

the option of calling in and teleconferencing if they can’t make a meeting in person or if the weather is bad.

It’s important to have equestrian representation to keep equestrian interests on the table as much as possible adn to educate and promote multiple-use greenways and trails.

CHC will assist you in getting your appointment and in starting out. If you are interested, please contact Diane Ciano at spirit76@snet.net or (203) 757-1904.

To learn more about the Connecticut Greenways Council visit, ct.gov/deep/ greenways.

will celebrate its 60th anniversary at the club’s picnic on September 10, from 12 to 4 p.m. The event will be held at Wild Wind Stables, 1901 Middletown Avenue, Northford. Come and enjoy the food, fun, and a raffle.

The Connecticut Morgan Youth Contest was held during the CMHA Open Horse Show on June 8.

Fifteen contestants competed in three age groups and in four divisions, doing a horsemanship pattern, oral presentation, judging, and a written exam.

Maria Tartaglione won the Senior division and is

The Connecticut Renegades continued their competition season at the Old Bethany Airport with the annual Summer Sizzler match on Sunday, July 17. Although the match’s namesake held true with a typical hot July day, 33 riders came out to brave the heat. Several horses often pull double duty at these matches, carrying several riders of varying levels. Some are helping welcome brand new riders to the sport, like 12-year-old Zachary Schiavi of Cheshire.

Other hard working steeds included Levi, a buckskin gelding from Saw Horse Farm in Harwington. He carried both Shyanne Ostrander of Torrington and Alan Green of Bethany, but not at the same time! Another gelding — Missouri of Messenger Farm in West Granby — carried Gus Carlson and Paige Forsyth, both of West Granby.

The Connecticut State Championship was held on Saturday, August 13 at the Old Bethany Airport. To learn about the Connecticut Renegades and the sport of cowboy mounted shooting, visit ctrenegades.com.

7Allison Forsyth

Connecticut Trail Rides Association The CTRA Fourth of July weekend at Camp Boardman was awesome — Ruth

Middlebury Bridle Land Association Are you or your horse new to hunter paces? Would you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere to introduce you both to the hunter pace experience? Maybe you and your horse have shared many years of hunter pace participation, but you eagerly anticipate riding some of the most beautiful trails in Connecticut. Either way, the MBLA Fall Hunter Pace is just what you’ve been searching for!

middleburybridle.org or call ShawnaLee at (203) 5980065. Fees are $65 for adult nonmembers, $50 for adult MBLA members, $45 for junior nonmembers, and $35 for junior MBLA members.

Ruth Strontzer

The MBLA will hold its annual Fall Hunter Pace on Sunday, September 18, at the Larkin Farm on South Street in Middlebury. Each year, dozens of teams set out across the MBLA trails,

Connecticut Trail Rides Association member and Poker Ride host Carrie Torseillo and Magic.

courtesy of the Tanheath Hunt Club

Strontzer counted 80 people and 47 horses — we had a horse camp in full swing! On Saturday evening, Cindy Pelletier hosted an amazing potluck dinner in the pavilion. So much food! Sunday morning, we had a great breakfast, hosted by Lynn Gogoyla, Ruth Strontzer, and Olga Agostini. Then Carrie Torsiello hosted a Poker Ride, taking us out for fourplus hours on the Mohawk trails. We showed some new members the Ram Tower, the ski lifts, and the overlook that claims you can see all the way to the Vermont and New Hampshire mountains.

It’s great to see the new faces, horses, and to enjoy the campfires.

Please take note, as there is a change in the ride schedule: The Wadsworth Ride is now September 9 and Bluff Point is now October 9.

The website has been updated, as well as the CTRA Facebook page.

Nominees for the executive board, as of this writing, are the current members: Lynn Gogoyla for president, Ruth Strontzer for treasurer, Patti Crowther for secretary, Kowboy Ken Forcier for vice president, and Bud Dore for camp director. You can nominate anyone up to and including the night of the annual banquet on November 5.

Happy trails!

7Patti Crowther

Pony Clubbers visit with the Tanheath Hunt Club hounds.

which include both fields and wooded areas. Jumps are of various heights throughout the course, and goarounds are available at all jumps.

Teams of two to three riders may sign up to compete in Hunt, Pleasure, Western, or Junior divisions.

Safety helmets and appropriate footwear with heels are required for all riders. A proof of negative Coggins test is required for all horses competing.

The event will be held rain or shine. Start times will be assigned in advance.

Teams will depart the starting point between 8 a.m. to noon.

To register, please visit

Lunch is free for all riders and is catered by Dinova’s Four Corners Store. Lunch for nonriders is $20 per person.

The MBLA Fall Hunter Pace is part of the Associated Bridle Trails Pace Series, which includes Putnam, Bedford, Lewisboro, Greenwich, and Newtown.

7Sally L. Feuerberg

Tanheath Hunt Club The June 19 Hunter Pace at Tyrone Farm was a great success — wonderful weather and 84 riders. The consensus: a good time had by all.

The third and final pace will be Sunday, September 25 at Babcock Hill Equestrian Center in Coventry, rain or shine.

We’ll have our Intro to Foxhunting Clinic at Tyrone Farm in Pomfret on Saturday, September 3. This is a great opportunity to learn about foxhunting, the tradition, etiquette, rules, and to see if this type of activity is for you. The morning is an informal presentation on foxhunting, followed by an afternoon mock hunt and a chance to practice in the field. We’ll be there to help you. Join the fun.

Our Huntsman Sherri Colby says, “The hounds are doing well. We’re growing the pack — up to nine hounds now.” They’ve been walking out with Sherri regularly, and weekly with Master of Fox Hounds Cathy Leinert, First Whipper In Leslie Cashel, and member Deb Pollard. Walks are on Thursdays.

This summer, we were fortunate to draft some wonderful hounds. Green Mountain Krafty is a sevenyear-old American Foxhound female from Green Mountain Hounds in Vermont. She hunts well and has a good voice. We drafted three hounds from Wentworth Hunt in New Hampshire.

Wentworth Otter is a very large Pennmarydel male, and Sedgefield Showgirl and Sedgefield Shaboom are fiveyear-old Pennmarydel sisters, bred by Moore County Hounds — beautiful girls with lots of drive. We look forward to hunting them all.

The Blessing of the Hounds and the start of our official hunting season will be in Greene, Rhode Island on Sunday, October 2.

The Turkey Trot will be in Scotland on Sunday, November 13, and the Ayer Mountain Hunter Trials at Ayer Mountain Farm in North Franklin on Sunday, November 19.

For up-to-date information, visit tanheathhunt.com and find us on Facebook.

7Raymond Hill Connecticut Horse

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Nutmeg State Happenings Southern New England Horsemen’s Association Show Falls Creek Farm

Jessica Correia

To see more Nutmeg State Happenings, find us on Facebook.

Supporting Our Equestrian Community!

Donating Connecticut Horse Youth Awards to competitions in the Nutmeg State.

Giving free annual subscriptions to the members of more than 15 Connecticut clubs and associations.

Featuring an equine nonprofit group in every issue in the Lend a Hoof feature.

Reporting and photography of Nutmeg State equestrian events every week on our Facebook page.

In our second year of news, photos, event coverage, features, and more.

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September/October 2016

Connecticut

September 2 WOODSTOCK FAIR SHOW, woodstockfair.com.

Events

2 – 4 MYSTIC SUMMER FESTIVAL, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mvhchorse.com.

3 TANHEATH HUNT CLUB INTRODUCTION TO FOXHUNTING, Pomfret. tanheathhunt.com.

3 – 5 CTRA LABOR DAY WEEKEND, Camp Boardman, Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org.

4 CDA DRESSAGE SHOW, R Folly Farm, Morris. ctdressageassoc.org.

5 LABOR DAY POKER RIDE AND PICNIC, Happy Trails Farm, Danbury. (203) 778-6218.

6 CONNECTICUT HORSE COUNCIL MEETING, Berlin. cthorsecouncil.org.

8 – 11 CQHA FALL CLASSIC, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. cqha.com.

10 CMHA 60TH ANNIVERSARY PICNIC, Wild Wind Stables, Northford. ctmorgans.org.

10 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Avon Valley Show Stables, Avon. avonvalleyshowstables.com.

10 MOUNTED SHOOTING MATCH, Bethany. ctrenegades.com.

10 CBH BARREL RACING, Saddleview Farm, Bethany. connecticutbarrelhorse.com.

10 JUDGED PLEASURE RIDE III, Tyrone Farm, Pomfret. tyronefarm.com.

10 BENEFIT CONCERT FOR U.S. HORSE WELFARE, Little Barn, Simsbury. littlehouselive.com.

10 MOUNTAIN TRAIL CHALLENGE, Happy Trails Farm, Danbury. (203) 778-6218.

10 – 11 USEF NEHC CHJA SHOW, Stepping Stone Farm, Ridgefield. steppingstonefarmct.com.

11 LTA HUNTER PACE, Lord Creek Farm, Lyme. lymetrailassociation.org.

16 THE MANE EVENT FUND-RAISER, Manes & Motions, Middletown. manesandmotions.com.

16 – 18 MOTHER–DAUGHTER RIDING WEEKEND, Camp Jewell YMCA, Colebrook. campjewell.org.

16 – 18 MITCHELL FARM MUSIC FESTIVAL, Salem. mitchellfarm.org.

17 CHSA CHJA SHOW, End of Hunt Equestrian Center, Suffield. endofhunt.com.

17 CTRA FULL MOONLIGHT RIDE, Slab Meadow Road, Morris. cttrailridesassoc.org.

17 – 18 NEPtHA OPEN SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. nepinto.com.

18 FOLLY FARM FALL CLASSIC, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us.

24 ST. PETER’S CHARITY SHOW, Bethany.

(203) 272-0142 or jaycyn195@aol.com.

24 CHC HAA HOSPICE RIDE, Cheshire. cheshirehorsecouncil.org.

24 – 25 CTRA MEMORIAL RIDE WEEKEND, Mohawk State Forest, West Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org.

24 – 25 NORTHEAST BARREL ASSOCIATION SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. fallscreekfarm.com.

25 CDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Grand View Stable, Columbia. ctdressageassoc.org.

25 CBH BARREL RACING, Old Bethany Airport. connecticutbarrelhorse.com.

25 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TRAINING SHOW, Ellington. decarlifarm.com.

25 MOUNTED SHOOTING CLUB PRACTICE, West Granby. ctrenegades.com.

25 GTRA A DAY IN THE COUNTRY SHOW, Milliken Property, Greenwich. thegrta.org.

25 FCHC “C” SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

18 COMBINED TRAINING SCHOOLING SHOW, DeCarli Farm, Ellington. decarlifarm.com.

25 LAKEVILLE OPEN SHOW, Riga Meadow Equestrian Center, Salisbury. leefpotter@gmail.com.

18 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Weatogue Stables, Salisbury. weatoguestables.com.

25 CCBA HORSE SHOW, Glastonbury. connecticutcolorbreed.com.

18 DONKEY AND MULE SHOW, Guilford Fair. tripledalefarm@yahoo.com.

25 CGA PLAY DAY AND PICNIC, Baumann Brook Farm, Prospect. ctgymkhana.com.

18 CDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Coventry. ctequestriancenter.com.

25 HORSE TRIALS, Frazier Farm, Woodbury. frazierfarmct.com.

18 CTRA RIDE, White Memorial/Reservoir, Morris. cttrailridesassoc.org.

25 FALL OPEN SCHOOLING SHOW, North Franklin. sites.google.com/site/ ayermountainfarm/.

11 CDA DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Sperry View Farm, Bethany. ctdressageassoc.org.

18 AUTUMN DAZE JUMPING SHOW, North Franklin. sites.google.com/site/ayermountain farm/.

11 GHC STRAIN RIDE, Granby. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

21 – 25 CONNECTICUT CLASSIC HORSE SHOW, Keney Park, Hartford. ctclassichorseshow.com.

11 CTRA BREAKFAST RIDE, Wadsworth Falls State Park, Middlefield. ctrailridesassoc.org.

23 – 25 WESTBROOK GRAND FALL CLASSIC, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.

11 CHSA CHJA PINES OPEN, Pines Farm, South Glastonbury. pinesfarm.com.

24 CVDC SCURRY AND FUN DAY, Mitchell Farm, Salem. cvdrivingclub.com.

1 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Avon Valley Show Stables, Avon. avonvalleyshowstables.com.

11 CT BARREL HORSE SHOW, Old Bethany Airport. nbhact01.org.

24 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

1 CBH BARREL RACING, Old Bethany Airport. connecticutbarrelhorse.com.

25 TANHEATH HUNT CLUB FALL HUNTER PACE, Coventry. tanheathhunt.com.

30 FHANA NEW ENGLAND FRIESIAN KEURING, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. fhana.com.

October

Connecticut Horse

43

1 GHC WHITE MEMORIAL RIDE, Litchfield. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

1 GRTA STETSONS AND STILLETOS PARTY OF THE YEAR, Greenwich. thegrta.org.

1 – 2 MOUNTED SHOOTING REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. ctrenegades.com.

2 CHSA CHJA PINES OPEN, Pines Farm, South Glastonbury. pinesfarm.com.

2 ENGLISH AND WESTERN DRESSAGE SHOW, Portland. facebook.com/whitebirchfarmct.

2 CDCTA DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TEST SCHOOLING SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. cdctaonline.com.

2 CTRA RIDE, Hidden Valley Preserve, Washington Depot. cttrailridesassoc.org.

8 USEF NEHC CHJA SHOW, Stepping Stone Farm, Ridgefield. steppingstonefarmct.com.

8 CVDC DRIVE, Lyme. cvdrivingclub.com.

8 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Windcrest Farm, Hebron. windcrestfarm.net.

8 DRESSAGE AND COMBINED TRAINING SCHOOLING SHOW, Treasure Hill Farm Equestrian Center, Salem. treasurehillfarm.com.

9 GHC BILL STRAIN MEMORIAL BENEFIT BEACH RIDE, Charleston, Rhode Island. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

9 CHC BREAKFAST RIDE, Wadsworth Falls State Park, Middlefield. cheshirehorsecouncil.org.

9 GRTA HUNTER PACE, Greenwich. thegrta.org.

9 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mysticvalleyhuntclub.com.

9 VERSATILITY CLINIC, Babcock Hill, Coventry. dawnbonin.com.

9 CHJA BLUE RIBBON VENTURES SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. bhcmanagement.com.

9 PHTA HUNTER PACE, Tyrone Farm, Pomfret. tyronefarm.com.

9 CTRA RIDE, Bluff Point State Park, Groton. cttrailridesassoc.org.

14 SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mvhchorse.com.

14 – 16 MARUKE DE JONG STRAIGHTNESS TRAINING CLINIC, Narnia Stables, Ashford. facebook.com/narniastables.

15 CROSS-COUNTRY DERBY, Horse Power Farm, Canterbury. horsepowerfarm.info.

15 GHC BREAKFAST RIDE, Maple Corner Farm, Granville, Massachusetts. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

15 VERSATILITY COMPETITION, Babcock Hill, Coventry. dawnbonin.com.

16 CHJA SHOW, Ridgefield Equestrian Center, Ridgefield. ridgefieldequestriancenter.com.

16 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Avon Valley Show Stables, Avon. avonvalleyshowstables.com.

16 CTRA RIDE, Hurd State Park, Middle Haddam. cttrailridesassoc.org.

10 CHJA BLUE RIBBON VENTURES SHOW, Valkyrie Equestrian Center, Granby. bhcmanagement.com.

16 CHSA SHOW, First Company Governor’s Horse Guard, Avon. ctfirsthorse.org.

10 CHJA SHOW, Sweetwater Farm, Clinton. sweetwaterct.net.

16 SCHOOLING SHOW, Frazier Farm, Woodbury. frazierfarmct.com.

15 CHJA, CHSA, NEHC, M&S SHOW, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us.

22 CHSA CHJA PINES OPEN, Pines Farm, South Glastonbury. pinesfarm.com.

Training ~ Lessons ~ Showing ~ Sales 7 rall Road, Broad Brook, CT (860)307-6963 ~ mcph279@gmail.com www.carverperformancehorses.com

562 S Main St., Middletown, CT (860) 347-2531 www.midstatetractor.com 44

September/October 2016

22 CHC TURKEY TROT, Cheshire. cheshirehorsecouncil.org.

30 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Oak Meadow Farm, East Windsor. rideoakmeadow.com.

5 ECDHA FUN DAY, Blue Slope Country Museum. easternctdrafthorse.org.

22 FCHC “C” SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

30 CHJA BLUE RIBBON VENTURES SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. bhcmanagement.com.

5 CHJA SHOW, Clinton. sweetwaterct.net.

23 GHC ST. JUDE BENEFIT RIDE, Robinson State Park, Agawam, Massachusetts. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

23 OPEN SHOW, New Canaan Mounted Troop, New Canaan. newcanaanmountedtroop.org.

23 FALL FINALE HUNTER/JUMPER SCHOOLING SHOW, DeCarli Farm, Ellington. decarlifarm.com.

23 OPEN BARN AND ANNUAL MEETING, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

23 CHSA CHJA SHOW, End of Hunt Equestrian Center, Suffield. endofhunt.com.

23 CBH BARREL RACING, Old Bethany Airport. connecticutbarrelhorse.com.

23 CTRA FALL FOLIAGE RIDE, Cockaponsett State Forest, Chester. cttrailridesassoc.org.

29 CHJA SHOW, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

30 USEF/USDF DRESSAGE SHOW, Sperry View Farm, Bethany. centerlineevents.com.

30 HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY AND SHOW, Horses Healing Humans, Stonington. horseshealinghumansct.org.

30 CTRA HALLOWEEN COSTUME RIDE, Camp Boardman, Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org.

Serving southwestern Connecticut

30 GHC MYSTERY RIDE, TBD. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

30 NBLA FROST ON THE PUMPKIN HUNTER PACE, Newtown. nblact.com.

November 5 CTRA 76TH ANNUAL FALL MEETING. cttrailridesassoc.org.

Lessons

Leasing

Trails

Covered Round Pen

Farms with one horse to 100!

30 PUMPKIN JUMPIN’ SHOW, Treasure Hill Farm Equestrian Center, Salem. treasurehillfarm.com.

Training

Indoor Arena

Containerized Manure Removal Containers from 4 to 30 cubic yards

30 LCRVHC HUNTER PACE, Weber Woods. lcrvhc.org.

Boarding

2 Outdoor Arenas

5 – 6 CORE CLINIC, Ethel Walker School, Simsbury. ethelwalker.org/riding/core-clinic-2016.

Clinics

Parties

Group Lessons

Show Coaching

239 Sand Hill Rd., Portland, CT 06480 (860) 581-0307 wbfllcct@gmail.com

Boarding Lessons

S

22 CTRA TURKEY TROT POKER RIDE, Cheshire. cttrailridesassoc.org.

Newtown, Connecticut 203-426-8870 www.associatedrefuse.com

ng Valley Far m i r p Indoor Arena

Sales Leases

Owned and Operated by the Ross Family Trainer: Jennifer Braiden 1125 Essex Rd., Westbrook, CT (860) 399-5000 . (860) 304-5848 Dressage is our Specialty Board . Lessons . Training All Breeds Welcome (especially Morgans)

Gretchen Geromin, trainer USDF certified instructor . USDF bronze medalist . British Horse Society certified

Mansfield Center, CT . Just 10 minutes from UConn foxfirestables.net . (860) 543-1399 Connecticut Horse

45

6 CHJA SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mysticvalleyhuntclub.com.

13 USEF NEHC CHJA SHOW, Stepping Stone Farm, Ridgefield. steppingstonefarmct.com.

5 CHSA SHOW, Sweetwater Farm, Clinton. sweetwaterct.com.

6 CDA DRESSAGE SHOW, Connecticut Equestrian Center, Coventry. ctequestriancenter.com.

13 TANHEATH HUNT CLUB TURKEY TROT, Scotland. tanheathhunt.com.

6 CONNECTICUT HORSE COUNCIL MEETING, Berlin. cthorsecouncil.org.

13 HOLIDAY MARKET, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

6 CHSA SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mvhchorse.com.

19 FCHC “C” SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

12 CHSA SHOW, Pines Farm, South Glastonbury. pinesfarm.com.

19 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Windcrest Farm, Hebron. windcrestfarm.net.

13 CHSA SHOW, Fox Crossing Equestrian, Morris. foxcrossingequestrian.com.

19 TANHEATH HUNT CLUB HUNTER TRIALS, Ayer Mountain Farm, Franklin. tanheathhunt.com.

17 HORSES HEALING HUMANS VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION AND YEAR-END AWARDS, Stonington. horseshealinghumansct.org.

20 CVDC ANNUAL TURKEY TROT DRIVE, Woodland Farm, Lyme. cvdrivingclub.com.

19 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Windcrest Farm, Hebron. windcrestfarmct.com.

20 GHC LAST HURRAH, Evans Farm, Granville, Massachusetts. granbyhorsecouncilct.com.

20 CHSA SHOW, Shallowbrook, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

20 CHJA SHOW, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

26 CHSA SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.

20 CMHA TURKEY TROT, Bluff Point State Park, Groton. ctmorgans.org.

27 CHSA CHJA SHOW, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us.

6 CHJA BLUE RIBBON VENTURES SHOW, Valkyrie Equestrian Center, Granby. bhcmanagement.com.

6 25th ANNUAL HUNTER PACE, North Franklin. sites.google.com/site/ayermountainfarm/.

6 CHJA SHOW, Ridgefield Equestrian Center, Ridgefield. ridgefieldequestriancenter.com.

10 – 11 ANN HALLER CLINIC, Sperry View Farm, Bethany. sperryviewfarm.com.

12 CHJA PINES OPEN, Pines Farm, South Glastonbury. pinesfarm.com.

26 CHJA SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.

26 – 27 DR JENNY SUSSER SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY CLINIC, Fox Ledge Farm, East Haddam. foxledgefarm.net.

27 CHJA, CHSA, NEHC, M&S SHOW, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us.

27 CHJA BLUE RIBBON VENTURES SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. bhcmanagement.com.

December 3 CVDC HOLIDAY GATHERING, Town Tavern, East Haddam. cvdrivingclub.com.

Chuck Sharples Equine Transportation 860-575-0020

Horses on the Move

Based in Connecticut Regional service from Maine to Florida

info@chucksharplesequine.com www.chucksharplesequine.com Facebook.com/ChuckSharplesEquine 46

September/October 2016

Send your clinic, show, trail ride, seminar, and lecture to events@connhorse.com to have it published in the Events Calendar.

It’s free!

Got manure?

Containerized Manure Removal Le May, Inc. Farmers of Natural Resources Fred LeMay . Newtown, Connecticut 203-426-2497 . 203-948-1586 (cell) akenworthman@gmail.com

the

neighborhood

ARTISTS

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PORTRAITS BY SHAWNALEE Middlebury, CT, (203) 598-0065 shawnalee.com Charcoals, oils painted by hand.

TEAM MOBILE FELINE UNIT (888) FOR-TEAM everyanimalmatters.org Mobile spay, neuter, and vaccination clinic for cats.

WHITE PICKETS STUDIO (978) 724-8823 whitepicketsstudio.com Fabio and Sara Deponte art.

ASSOCIATIONS

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CHESHIRE HORSE COUNCIL cheshirehorsecouncil.org Trail rides and maintenance, community service.

CONNECTICUT BARREL HORSE connecticutbarrelhorse.com CONNECTICUT COLOR BREED ASSOCIATION connecticutcolorbreed.com CONNECTICUT DRESSAGE ASSOCIATION ctdressageassoc.com CONNECTICUT GYMKHANA ASSOCIATION ctgymkhana.com CONNECTICUT HORSE SHOWS ASSOCIATION chsaonline.com.com

Your Everything Equine “white pages”

BARN CATS

SILVER LINING STABLES Monroe, CT, (203) 445-6318 silverliningstablesct.com Premier horse-boarding facility.

CONNECTICUT RENEGADES ctrenegades.com CONNECTICUT TRAIL RIDES ASSOCIATION ct-trailrides.org FIRST GOVERNOR’S HORSE GUARD Avon, CT, (860) 463-3372 ctfirsthorseguard.org Oldest continuously active mounted cavalry unit in the United States.

GRANBY HORSE COUNCIL OF CONNECTICUT granbyhorsecouncilct.com GREENWICH RIDING AND TRAILS ASSOCIATION thegrta.org MIDDLEBURY BRIDLE LAND ASSOCIATION middleburybridle.org NEWTOWN BRIDLE LANDS ASSOCIATION nblact.com POMFRET HORSE AND TRAIL ASSOCIATION pomfrethorseandtrail.com TANHEATH HUNT CLUB tanheathhunt.com

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SPRING VALLEY FARM Westbrook, CT, (860) 399-5000 Hunter, jumper, boarding, lessons.

HIGH HOPES THERAPEUTIC RIDING Old Lyme, CT, (860) 434-1974 highhopestr.org.

Therapeutic riding, driving, Horses for Heroes, unmounted equine learning.

STONECREST FARM Southbury, CT, (203) 586-1016 stonecrestfarmct.com Boarding, lessons, indoor/outdoor ring.

MANES & MOTIONS Middletown, CT, (860) 223-2761 manesandmotions.com Therapeutic riding for body, mind, soul.

SWEETWATER FARM Clinton, CT, (860) 669-9473 sweetwaterct.com Lessons, training, boarding, shows, sale horses, events facility.

RAY OF LIGHT FARM E. Haddam, CT, (860) 873-1895 rayoflightfarm.org Animal-assisted therapy; rescue center

BOARDING AND TRAINING

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BABCOCK HILL FARM DAWN BONIN HORSEMANSHIP Coventry, CT, (860) 985-7611 babcockhill.com Natural horsemanship, lessons, training, boarding, sales/leases.

CENTURY SILHOUETTE FARM Northford, CT, (203) 627-4587 Private lessons; variety of disciplines.

DECARLI EQUESTRIAN CENTER Ellington, CT, (860) 878-9274 decarlifarm.com Boarding, lessons, training, shows, sale horses, and clinics.

EPIC FARM Middlefield, CT, (860) 620-3686 epicfarm.com Boarding, training, lessons, sales/leases, camp.

FOLLY FARM SHOW STABLES Simsbury, CT, (860) 658-9943 follyfarm.us Training, showing, board, lessons, polo.

EQUINE DENTISTRY VAQUERO TRAINING CENTER E. Windsor, CT, (860) 623-2687 vaquerotrainingcenter.com Boarding, training, lessons, education of horse and rider.

WESTBROOK HUNT CLUB Westbrook, CT, (860) 399-6317 westbrookhuntclub.com Board, training, lessons, shows, clinics.

WHIMSY BROOK FARM Redding, CT, (203) 938-3760 whimsybrookfarm.com Boarding, lessons, training, equine therapies, Pony Club.

CLIPPER AND BLADE SERVICE

CONNECTICUT MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION ctmorgans.org

EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY

FOX LEDGE FARM, ANN GUPTILL E. Haddam, CT, (860) 873-8108 foxledgefarm.net Dressage lessons, training, clinics.

GREYLEDGE FARM Durham, CT, (860) 349-9722 greyledgefarm.com Training, boarding, lessons, showing, Quarter Horses.

GUILFORD RIDING SCHOOL Guilford, CT, (203) 453-8768 grsriding.com Connecticut shoreline’s premier riding stable.

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CLIPPER BARN OF CONNECTICUT Baltic, CT, (860) 822-1951 theclipperbarnofct.com Repairs, sharpening, all types.

CONSTRUCTION

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CARRIAGE GATE CONSTRUCTION Serving the Northeast, (717) 951-9443 Horse barns, garages, remodeling.

THE CARRIAGE SHED (800) 441-6057, carriageshed.com Custom-built barns, shed rows, arenas.

CREMATION

HAPPY TRAILS FARM Danbury, CT, (203) 778-6218 Pleasure riding, obstacle course, trails.

J.A. MCDERMOTT HORSEMANSHIP Guilford, CT, (203) 434-9505 willingresults.com Bridging science and holistic horsemanship.

JOHN BENNETT STABLES Putnam, CT, (860) 928-7098 john.bennett_jr@uconn.edu Lessons all disciplines, training, harness.

MOVADO FARMS Durham, CT, (860) 463-5272 movadofarms.net Lessons, IEA team, leasing, shows.

MYSTIC VALLEY HUNT CLUB Gales Ferry, CT, (860) 464-7934 mvhchorse.com Boarding, training, sales, shows, hunter, jumper, equitation, ponies, children, and IEA/IHSA teams.

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CONNECTICUT HORSE CREMATION Killingworth, CT, (860) 881-7802 cthorsecremation.com Loving, dignified cremation service.

EDUCATION

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POST UNIVERSITY Waterbury, CT, (800) 345-2562 post.edu BS in equine studies.

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SHELLY WYSOCKI E. Haddam, CT, (860) 212-0114 equinedentalct33662@att.net Prophylaxis, equilibration, and gnathological procedures.

EQUINE LAUNDRY

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LE CHEVAL LAUNDRY Willimantic, CT, (860) 428-1283 abr10000@aol.com Quality laundry and repair service.

EQUINE MASSAGE

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EQUINE MASSAGE BY KATHLEEN Ridgefield, CT, (203) 297-3008 kathy.curran@snet.net A nice massage, for your horse!

EQUISSAGE NE/NY CT, MA, RI, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Integrated body work for performance horses: reiki, Masterson Method, sports and therapeutic massage, myofascial release, cranio sacral therapy, infrared photon therapy.

EQUINE RELATIONSHIPS

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MINDFUL CONNECTIONS mindful-connections.com What is your horse trying to tell you?

Tuning in to your companion.

EQUIPMENT

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STANTON EQUIPMENT John Deere, stantoneq.com Plainfield, CT, (860) 230-0130 East Windsor, CT, (860) 623-8296 Canaan, CT, (860) 824-1161 FARRIER

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UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT Storrs, CT, (860) 486-2413 animalscience.uconn.edu Two- and four-year ANSC degrees.

MATT LEWIS Colchester, CT, (860) 575-2455 foxglovefarm.com Professional horseshoeing for the performance horse.

ELECTRICAL

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FEED AND PET STORE

RV PARTS AND ELECTRIC Waterbury, CT, (203) 755-0739 hedman@snet.net Electrical work; trailers, trucks, RVs.

LOCK, STOCK & BARREL (203) 393-0002 lsbfarmsupply.com Large-animal feed and pet food. Tack, farm supplies, and power equipment.

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Connecticut Horse

47

SWEETWATER FEED AND EQUIPMENT Clinton, CT, (860) 669-9473 sweetwaterct.com Tribute Equine Nutrition; pet foods.

REAL ESTATE

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HORSES FOR SALE

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Alexis Devlin, Realtor Colchester, CT, (860) 214-9859 alexisdevlin.com Experienced equestrian Realtor.

HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Open to buy, sell, or trade horses seven days a week, by appointment.

CROSBY MIDDLEMASS REALTOR Connecticut, (203) 558-2046 higginsgroup.com Specializing in equestrian properties.

STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable.

WILLIAM PITT SOTHEBY’S REALTY Mariette Woolfson, Realtor Essex, CT, (860) 883-3667 mwoolfson@wpsir.com Equestrian properties.

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INSURANCE

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FARM FAMILY INSURANCE To find an agent near you, visit farmfamily.com.

KATHY KANE INSURANCE Gales Ferry, CT, (860) 625-7128 kanekathyo@yahoo.com Specializing in horses and farms.

LOANS

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WILLIAM RAVEIS EQUESTRIAN Lori Vogel, Realtor Middlefield, CT, (860) 614-0666 lorivogel.com Specializing in equestrian lifestyle real estate.

RETIREMENT SANCTUARIES

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MITCHELL FARM Salem, CT, (860) 303-8705 mitchellfarm.org Permanent sanctuary for senior horses.

BLUEBIRD MEADOWS FARM N. Granby, CT, (860) 604-8088 bluebirdmeadowsfarm.com Buying and selling quality tack.

REINS Essex, CT, (860) 767-0777 reinstackshop.com Fine equestrian apparel, tack, footwear, and gifts.

SMITH-WORTHINGTON SADDLERY Hartford, CT, (860) 527-9117 smithworthington.com Fine English saddlery and tack.

TRACTORS/EQUIPMENT

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MIDSTATE TRACTOR AND EQUIPMENT COMPANY Middletown, CT, (860) 347-2531 midstatetractor.com Kubota, John Deere, Scag Power Equipment, Stihl, Honda.

TRAINER

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CATHY DRUMM (413) 441-5278 cathydrumm.com Travels to you; English and western.

FARM CREDIT EAST (800) 946-0506 farmcrediteast.com Loans for equestrian facilities, farms, bare land, home sites. Equipment loans and leases.

TAYLOR FARM New Hartford, CT, (860) 482-8725 taylorlynn58@gmail.com Horse retirement is all we do!

CONNECTICUT TRAILERS Bolton, CT, (877) 480-4197 cttrailers.com Quality trailers; sales, parts, service.

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MANURE REMOVAL,

RIDER FITNESS

ASSOCIATED REFUSE HAULERS Newtown, CT, (203) 426-8870 associatedrefuse.com Containerized manure removal in southwestern Connecticut.

RIDE FIT (206) 713-6761, ridefitnow.com Fitness program developed for riders.

JOHN McCARTHY TRUCKING (860) 377-9498 East Coast New England to Florida.

LE MAY, INC. Newtown, CT, (203) 347-2531 We buy manure.

ARMOUR COMPANIES (800) 876-7706 armourcompanies.com Stall components, aluminum, no rust.

PENDERGAST HAULING AND BARN SERVICES New Fairfield, CT, (203) 948-9493 Manure removal, arena-footing restoration, excavation service.

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STALL COMPONENTS

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SUMMER PROGRAMS

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PHOTOGRAPHY

HARTFORD COUNTY 4-H CAMP S. Windsor, CT, (860) 289-4177 hartfordcounty4hcamp.com Youths and adults partner together.

JEANNE LEWIS IMAGES Wallingford, CT, jeannelewisimages.com Western events, barn shoots, portraits. Serving New England.

RED SKYE FOUNDATION Bethany, CT, (203) 891-6787 redskye.org Camp, therapy, team building, lessons.

KATE LUSSIER PHOTOGRAPHY Wallingford, CT, (203) 213-7738

S. J. RIDING CAMP Ellington, CT, (860) 872-4742 sjridingcamp.com Overnight girls riding camp; lessons.

KATHRYN SCHAUER PHOTOGRAPHY Guilford, CT, (203) 710-9945

TACK

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katelussierphotography.com Individualized attention, reasonable rates.

kathrynschauerphotography.com Horses, pets, families.

SARAH GROTE PHOTOGRAPHY Cromwell, CT, (860) 301-6647 sarahgrote.com Lifestyle, event, pet, and nature.

SARRA-ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY S. Windsor, CT, (860) 644-7161 Fine-art equine portrait photography.

48

September/October 2016

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TRAILERS & TRANSPORTATION

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VETERINARY

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BECKETT & ASSOCIATES VETERINARY SERVICES Glastonbury, CT, (860) 659-0848 beckettvet.net Horses, pets, farm animals.

BROOKLYN-CANTERBURY LARGE ANIMAL CLINIC Canterbury, CT, (860) 546-6998 bclargeanimal.com Serving eastern CT and RI. Equines, farm animals, and camelids.

EGGLESTON EQUINE Woodstock, CT, (860) 942-3365 egglestonequine.com Lameness, pre-purchase exams, veterinary medicine and dentistry.

CARA KNESER, DVM Bozrah, CT, (860) 823-8951 kneserveterinary.com Mobile 24/7 Equine Veterinary Service.

ARBITRAGE TACK Oakville, CT, (860) 417-2608 arbitragetack.com Equipment you need at prices you can afford. We keep you riding.

SALEM VALLEY VETERINARY CLINIC Salem, CT, (860) 859-1649 salemvalleyvet.com Preventive medicine, emergency care, lameness, dentistry, surgery.

BEVAL SADDLERY New Canaan, CT, (203) 966-7828 beval.com New Canaan, Gladstone, NJ stores.

East Coast mobile unit.

TWIN PINES EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES Griswold, CT, (860) 376-4373 twinpinesequine.com Quality, compassionate care.

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Yes! Have your business and services in Connecticut Horse and on ConnHorse.com for just $49 a year.

Plus, you receive a free one-year subscription!

Place your ad!

Email ads@connhorse.com.

advertisers index Arbitrage Tack .................................... 15 Associated Refuse Haulers ................ 45 Bittersweet Farm ................................ 17 Blue Seal ............................................ 50 Braideez .............................................. 6 Brooklyn-Canterbury Clinic ................ 21 Cara Kneser, DVM ............................. 29 The Carriage Shed ............................... 2 Chuck Sharples Equine Transportation . 46 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage . 39 Congelosi Trailer Sales ........................ 10 Connecticut Classic Horse Show ......... 11 Connecticut Military Department ...... 23 Dawn Bonin Horsemanship ................. 17 Don Ray Insurance ............................... 5 Dover Saddlery ................................... 27 Equine Massage by Kathleen Curran . 45 Farm Credit East ................................. 25 Farm Family Insurance ......................... 6 Folly Farm Family of Businesses ......... 37 Foxfire Stables .................................... 45 Heritage Farm .................................... 30 Interscholastic Equestrian Association . 13 Intuitive Wisdom ................................. 46 JA McDermott Horsemanship .............. 5 John Bennett Stables .......................... 7 Just Horses ......................................... 28 King Barns ............................................ 4 Le May, Inc. ....................................... 46 Lock, Stock & Barrel ............................ 52 Lori Vogel Team .................................. 28 Matt Lewis Professional Horseshoeing . 49 Michele Carver Performance Horses . 44 Midstate Tractor & Equipment ........... 44 Mountain Top Inn & Resort ................. 26 Mohawk Distribution .......................... 44 Pat Bradley ......................................... 49 Pendergast Hauling & Barn Services .. 29 Pleasant View Farms ........................... 19 Portraits by ShawnaLee ....................... 7 Ramm Horse Fencing & Stalls .............. 15 Rebecca Hathaway ............................. 38 Sean T. Hogan, Esq. ........................... 38 Smith-Worthington Saddlery .............. 49 Spring Valley Farm .............................. 45 Strain Family Horse Farm .................... 44 Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group ........ 31 Twin Pines Equine Veterinary Services . 23 Whimsy Brook Farm ............................ 38 White Birch Farm ................................. 45 William Raveis Equestrian ................... 51

Is this your horse?

Connecticut’s own Smith-Worthington Saddlery is the proud sponsor of Is This Your Horse?

Kaitlyn Schroyer

Crafting fine English saddlery and tack since 1794.

Available at fine tack shops throughout the U.S. 275 Homestead Ave. Hartford, Connecticut 860 . 527 . 9117 smithworthington.com

Is this your horse?

This photo was taken July 17 at the Pines Farm Show in Glastonbury. If this is your horse, contact us at win@connhorse.com for a Smith-Worthington Saddlery leather halter.

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FOUR COLOR

Pat Bradley certified equine massage therapist

Massage erapy Myofascial Release Reiki & Healing Touch Practitioner Serving Connecticut, Westchester County, & the Hudson River Valley

pbradley4horses@gmail.com 203.609.1255

Connecticut Horse

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Benedict’s Home & Garden 480 Purdy Hill Road, Monroe (203) 268-2537 benedictsgarden.com

G. M. Thompson & Sons 54 Middle Turnpike Mansfield Depot (860) 429-9377 gmthompson.net

H. H. Stone & Sons 168 Main Street South Southbury (203) 264-6501 hhstoneandsons.benmoorepaints.com

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September/October 2016

Litchfield Blue Seal Store 99 Thomaston Road, Litchfield (860) 482-7116 blueseal.com

Lock, Stock & Barrel 770 Amity Road, Bethany (203) 393-0002 lsbfarmsupply.com

Meriden Feed & Supply 846 Old Colony Road, Meriden (203) 237-4414 Find us on Facebook

Norwich Agway 217 Otrobando Avenue, Norwich (860) 889-2344 norwichagway.com

Shagbark Lumber & Farm Supply 21 Mount Parnassus Road East Haddam (860) 873-1946 shagbarklumber.com

Valley Home & Garden Centre 16 Railroad Street, Simsbury (860) 651-5646 valleyhomeandgarden.com

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