October Appointments

Appointments The Hoofbeats of the Carolina Foothills

Volume 5 Issue 10

F R E E October 2011

On the hunt

by Barbara Childs

The cries of hounds break through a foggy, fall morning in the foothills and riders set off through the valley to follow their trail.

It’s fox hunting season in our horse country.

(Continued on page 4)

Spotlight on local equestrians: Michael Kocher Tina Gragg Rebecca Kemp

‘My horse’s belly hurts,’

by Rich Metcalf, DVM

COUNTRY LIVING Guest rooms

by Gillian Drummond

A monthly publication of The Tryon Daily Bulletin

Fall 2011 9/23-25: Tryon Fall Classic at FENCE. Info: Classic Co., 843-7685503 or visit www.classiccompany. com.

10/8: FRC Cross Country Schooling at FENCE. Info: Margo Savage, 828-863-4924.

9/30-10/2: Carolina Carriage Club Pleasure Show at Harmon Field, Harmon Field Rd., Tryon.

10/8: Saddle Up for Hospice at Stone Soup. Info: Charlotte Costa, 828-894-2000.

10/1-2: 36th Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Horse Trials at FENCE. Hosting the USEA/Chronicle of the Horse Adult Team Challenge. Info: 828859-6109 or visit www.trhcevent.org.

10/9: FRC Dressage at Harmon Field. Info: Margo Savage, 828-8634924.

10/1: Foothills Equestrian Trails Association (FETA) annual meeting and barbecue Saturday, Oct. 1 at 6 p.m. at the main house at FENCE. Dinner will include barbecue and all the fixings and drinks. Guests are asked to bring lawn chairs.

10/1: Harmon Hopefuls at Harmon Field, Harmon Field Rd., Tryon. Info: Noreen Cothran, 864-457-3557.

10/6: Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol Preview Party at Giardini’s in Columbus. Info: Lynn Chalmers, 828-894-6194.

10/6: Saddle Up for Hospice Info: Charlotte Costa, 828-863-2000.

10/6-27: Equine Marketing 101.

Isothermal Community College in Columbus. Info: www.isothermal. edu/polk/

Appointments Betty Ramsey, publisher Samantha Hurst, editor

828-859-2737 x 110 Fulton Hampton, marketing

828-859-2737 x 104 Nick Holmberg, marketing

828-859-2737 x 114 Make your “Appointments!”

10/11: Nutrition Seminar w/ Bob Mowrey, NCSU, at Mill Spring Ag Center. Info: Rachel Butterworth-Tice, DVM, dr.b@rutherfordlargeanimal. com.

10/9: 78th TR&HC Any and All Dog Show, Green Creek Equestrian Park, Columbus. Info: Laura Weicker, 828-859-6109 or www.trhcevents. net.

10/14-16: Progressive Show Jumping Show at FENCE. Info: psjshows@aol.com, 803-649-3505.

10/14-16: Second Annual Day in the Country. Info: Laura Weicker, 828-859-6109 or visit www. trhcevents.net .

10/15: FENCE Wine & Art Festival Saturday, Oct. 15 at The Red Horse Inn in Landrum. The event will run from noon until 5 p.m.

To reach us regarding: • News items, contact Samantha Hurst, (828) 859-2737 ext. 110, e-mail samantha.hurst@tryondailybulletin. com; or Barbara Childs, barbarachilds01@gmail.com; FAX to (828) 859-5575.

• Advertising, billing or distribution inquiries, please call Nick Holmberg at the Tryon Daily Bulletin, (828) 859-9151.

Appointments is distributed on the

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 2

10/21-23: Blue Ridge Hunter Jumper Association Classic Show at Harmon Field. Info: Lewis Pack at 828-894-2721.

10/22: Body/Energy work clinic with Sandy Siegrist at Long Shadows Farm, Campobello, S.C. Info: Longshadowsfarmsc@gmail.com.

10/22-23: Beginner Combined Training with Nicole Watts. Info: Nicole@equinezenbiz.fatcow.com.

10/22-23: Horsemanship and Obstacles Clinic. Ride and learn with Dave Seay and Pat Parrish. Info: Bill and Judith Kerns 828-859-5456/ 828-553-0202 10/23: Foothills Riding Club Schooling Horse Trials at FENCE. Info: Margo Savage, 828-863-4924.

10/29-30: Icelandic Horse Show at FENCE. Info: Sara Lyter.

11/10-12: Jerry Tindell clinic for Horse/Mulemanship 1. This clinic is planned to be at Ron Freer’s farm in Tryon. Call 760-948-1172 or check out Jerry’s website, jerrytindell. com, for more information. Horse/ Mulemanship 2 will be held Nov. 13-15. There will also be a trail ride Nov. 16.

fourth Thursday of every month (subject to change) in every homedelivered and newsstand copy of The Tryon Daily Bulletin.

You can also find them for free each month, as long as they last, in tourism and equestrian businesses throughout the area.

Appointments is a monthly publication of The Tryon Daily Bulletin Inc., 16 N. Trade Street, Tryon, N.C. 28782.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 3

The pack hunts Wednesdays and Saturdays from early September until mid-March. (photo submitted)

• Hunting

(continued from page 1)

In 1935, the Tryon Hounds was recognized by the Masters of Foxhounds Association and today enjoys an active and enthusiastic membership of riding and non-riding members.

Foxhunting is the cornerstone of the area’s equestrian heri-

tage and helps to protect the rural charm and rustic beauty of our community while adding directly to the region’s economic impact.

The Tryon Hounds began as a drag hunting pack in the 1920s when the late Carter P. Brown recognized that the Polk County countryside was ideal for pleasure and trail

riding. The climate also offered the potential for riding to hounds when the sport was curtailed by the severe weather in the north and mid-west.

The pack hunts Wednesdays and Saturdays from early September until mid-March.

The start of the formal season is Thanksgiving morning. Visitors are welcome to

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 4

attend the Blessing of the Hounds at Thanksgiving Hill.

The main hunt country lies between 1-26 in Landrum and Highway 9 in Green Creek, as well as on additional land in Gowensville, S.C. The kennels, stable and clubhouse are located on Little Mountain Road in Columbus.

Hunt country is chartered

The Huntsman

Jordan Hicks, Tryon Hunt huntmaster, at the annual puppy auction. (photos submitted)

to a specific hunt and records are kept with the Masters of Foxhounds Association. There has been considerable development in the area since the hunt was founded, and there is always interest in obtaining new country, preferably adjacent to existing country.

Agriculture and open spaces are beneficial to hunting as the game is disturbed much less than in developed areas.

We are lucky to have a dairy

farm and a beef cattle farm in our hunt country and those areas provide some of the best hunting for our sport.

The roads are always an issue, but we have mounted whips, as well as road whips in trucks that keep the hounds away from dangerous areas.

Riders have to have small game hunting licenses for both North and South Carolina as several of the fixtures cross state lines. As with any horse related activity, foxhunting is inherently dangerous and riders do participate at their own risk.

The unspoken rule for property is to treat it as you would treat your own prop-

Jordan Hicks became a professional huntsman f o r Tr y o n H o u n d s s t a r t ing with the 2007-2008 season, and this is the fifth season with the pack.

“I love this sport because I truly love the hounds and hunting. I started hunting on foot with my own beagles and foxhounds on the family farm when I was 9 years old,” Hicks said.

When Hicks was 11 h i s d a d ’s c o u s i n Ly d i a Kellett took them hunting for the first time with Gerald Pack and the Greenville County Hounds.

“I had a pony named Sunny who was awful to ride, but she loved to keep up with the hounds, and she would jump anything I pointed her at. I

erty. Landowners are gracious enough to share their land the sport, and members of the field are expected to recognize this and make intelligent decisions, particularly with regard to people’s horses that may be turned out while foxhunting is in session.

The fieldmasters are familiar with areas where the hunt is permitted and lead the flights accordingly.

Riders who elect to return to the trailers before the hunt is concluded may do so with permission from the fieldmaster. If you should find yourself riding alone use common courtesy and stay on marked trails or ride on the road.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 5

“I used to get into trouble for trying to sneak out of the field to get closer to the hounds so I could see them working.”

-- Jordan Hicks

used to get into trouble for trying to sneak out of the field to get closer to the hounds so I could see them working.”

Pack decided to put Hicks’ eagerness to good use by making him part of his staff and he whipped in for several years; Pack also let Hicks hunt the hounds for him when he w a s a t e e n a g e r.

“It was invaluable experience that some of the people coming into foxhunting as a staff later in life are really missing o u t o n . I t ’s o n e t h i n g t o be a whip, but being a huntsman has a totally d i f f e r e n t m e n t a l i t y. ”

The hounds are taken around the kennel property daily and they are exercised with the mounted staff prior to the official start of the season to help get them fit and to introduce the hounds to hunting.

The key to training young hounds is to have solid older hounds that teach them the right things to do in the woods. It’s not called a pack mentality for nothing.

Tryon Hounds had eight first season hounds enter last year and the majority fell in line and took right to hunting.

There are nine more to bring into the pack this year. A good (Continued on page 6)

• Hunting

(continued from page 5)

Blessing of the Hounds

breeding program is essential to the stability of the pack, and a lot of success has been achieved with the American foxhounds that Hicks has bred since his arrival in Tryon.

As far as training, it is very important to have capable staff that can properly correct the hounds, w h i c h t h e Tr y o n H u n t i s blessed with in the hunt.

The introductory flight or group of riders is known as the Hilltoppers. This group does not jump, but the fieldmaster or leader of the flight usually knows different ways around the country that allow riders to stay in the action, while keeping a slower pace.

This group is made up of

Oh Heavenly Father, you have in your creation knit together all the creatures on earth as a seamless garment: Grant to us, therefore, on this our nation’s day of Thanksgiving, the wisdom and grace to see all about us the works of your hand; grant that every one of us who looks into the eyes of horse or hound this day may see the reflection of your face; and grant that the skilled and cunning fox may be our pilot to a deeper understanding and love for your natural world.

Bless our solemn friend, the horse, who bonds himself to us in silence and does our will so freely.

And bless our brothers the hounds who guide us upon the chase and whose voices ring with such triumph and joy as to make an anthem worthy of your

(Continued on page 7)

hearing.

And finally, Oh Lord, may all who participate today in this sport, ancient from time beyond reckoning, return refreshed and renewed in body and spirit to do yous will for us. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, world without end. Amen.

Robert L. Ashcom (former huntsman with the Tryon Hounds) The Blessing of The Hounds takes place on Thanksgiving morning at 10a.m. at Thanksgiving Hill in Caroland Farms in Columbus on Jackson Grove Road. The public is invited to come out and watch one of the tradition that make living in our area so special.

Father Michael Doty blesses the hounds and the official hunt season kicks off with the riding members in their formal hunting attire.

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Tryon Hunt members out in the firld during last year’s hunt season.

Almost 200 people take part in the Tryon Hunt each year. (photo by Erik Olsen)

• Hunting

(continued from page 5)

riders who may not be fit or experienced enough to keep up on a blazing run with the first flight. Being realistic about your riding ability and your horse’s capabilities are keystones of good foxhunting.

“All the flights shown are good sport, and there is no shame in not jumping,” Hicks said.

On Saturdays with Tryon there is a second flight. This group moves at a faster pace than the Hilltoppers and may or may not jump depending on the obstacle. The fieldmaster of this flight has to adjust the path based on the riders behind him on that day.

One of the key attributes of a fieldmaster is to provide fun for the members riding with him without overfacing them.

First flight rides behind the huntsman and will typically jump all the jumps available on that day.

This flight gives the most experienced horses and riders the prime seats to watch the hounds do their job. This group brings with it the expectation that its members are

capable of handling anything that might come before them.

Staff horses share some of the same attributes of a field horse, but they tend to be a different kind of animal.

They must be brave but not herd-bound because they are always on their own. Staff horses cover more ground in a day than a field horse and they don’t have the option of heading back to the trailers early, so fitness is t h e k e y. T h e y h a v e t o b e bold jumpers and cross any obstacles because there is no one to give them a lead.

It can be difficult to use a staff horse in the field. These horses typically have a dominant personality and most don’t enjoy riding behind other horses as they think they should be in charge.

A good staff horse wants to be with the hounds and most love the hunt as much as their riders.

Foxhunting can seem intimidating, but there is nothing more exciting than to hear the hounds in full cry, and with the proper foundation almost anyone can find a place in the field to enjoy themselves.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 7

Loheacs seek better quality of life, grow business

by Barbara Chidls

The Rolling Hills Show Stable in Green Creek is owned and operated by Steven and Joann Loheac.

The 82 acres of rolling hills and countryside make this farm a gorgeous place to live and own horses.

The Loheacs rent stalls to trainers and individuals who do their own horse care. The covered arena is a very popular place to ride on rainy and snowy days.

The farm is also the base for Steven Loheac Transportation, Inc. business. This is a fully insured and licensed commercial horse transportation business that offers horse transportation throughout the United States and Canada.

Steven Loheac rode hunters and jumpers on a regular basis from the age of 7 until his business got so busy in the mid 1990s he didn’t have enough time to continue.

Occasionally Joann begs him to ride a horse that needs to be exercised and she doesn’t have the time. Joann started showing on the hunter jumper circuit when she was 10, and she continues to show today.

Joann said she loves riding and horses for many reasons.

“From the peacefulness of Highlighting walking a horse equestrian in the field in the early morning businesses while watching the deer and listening to birds to the thrill of Joann Loheac jumping with Bachelor Bob. (photo submitted). putting in a great round on a horse that I’ve had since he that will turn 30 in April. In her in Middleburg, Va. was 4, I’m always amazed by younger years, she competed Joann has also shown Bacha good horse’s willingness, and successfully in the adult and elor Bob, a show hunter. He is how they learn through trust preliminary jumper decisions. a beautiful liver chestnut that and repetition,” said Joann.

Steve has owned her since she loves to eat bananas. He has The Loheacs currently have was 5. been champion at competi19 horses at their farm. They The Loheacs also have three tive shows such as the Winter own seven and two are retired hunter/jumper prospects – Ad- Equestrian Festival and the broodmares. Cindy is Steve’s die, Izzy and Indy. In 2009, Baltimore Classic. horse - a Cleveland Bay/ TB Addie won the weanling class Joann has owned Bob since Appointments • October 2011 • p. 8

he was 4. Another show hunter is Yahoo, a.k.a. Southern Saluut. Yahoo was born at the farm and Joanne said he is a total goofball. He is a 17-hand bay with a lot of white markings.

Steve and Joann were both (Continued on page 9)

• Loheacs

(continued from page 8)

raised on Long Island, NY. Steve lived in Old Westbury and Joann lived in East Meadow. They moved to Polk County in 1999, not for business reasons but for a better quality of life.

“As a child I remember Christmas caroling on my pony Misty in the town of West Hills, and also riding her double bareHighlighting back through a equestrian McDonald’s drive-in. Those businesses were the days of youth and bliss,” said Joann.

While in college at C.W. Post University, Steven began working for a horse transportation company. He was able to combine his love for horses and his second-grade dream, which Steve Loheac and his wife Joann moved to Polk County for a better quality of life and gained a growing he shared with many other sec- business. (photo submitted). ond grade boys, that of driving had no licensed and insured the “big rigs.”

Steve started out driving the commercial horse carriers. horse van, and the owner was Now that the Loheacs are here so impressed with his driving their goal is to be the logical skills and work ethic and horse- choice for horse transportation.

Steve used to do import/exmanship skills that he begged him to get his chauffeurs li- port work at Kennedy Airport. cense. This allowed Steve to This involved loading and flying horses overseas to destinadrive the tractor-trailer.

He was 19 at the time. In tions as far as Japan. Steve has 1993, while attending graduate also shipped a load of tigers school at Hofstra University, along with their armed guards Steve decided it was time to from Florida to Alabama for a tiger rescue group relocating start his own business.

In Polk County it is very the tigers.

The goals for the Loheacs difficult to have a horse transportation company. Most horse include continuing to provide owners and trainers have their a beautiful and well-run faown trailers. The Loheacs’ cility for people to keep and business relies on repeat cus- ride their horses, as well as to expand their customer base for tomers.

In New York, the Loheacs their transportation business.

In riding, Joann wants to found they maintained a thriving business because of cost qualify and show again for the effectiveness and convenience. Harrisburg, Wash., and Devon By the time people would pay horse shows.

In the personal goal area the for a truck and trailer, insure it, maintain it and fuel it, using a Loheacs enjoy watching their transport company was a more 17-month-old daughter Olivia grow and enjoy all that life has logical choice.

Until now Polk County has to offer her.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 9

Mounted patrol coming soon The dream to form the Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol will become a reality this fall.

Sheriff Donald H. Hill saw a need for a mounted patrol in Polk County as this area has one of the highest per capita concentration of equine ownership of any area in North Carolina.

Even with the numerous equine events, Polk County did not have its own mounted patrol.

These functions were provided by the Henderson County Mounted Patrol.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol will be the only equine volunteer force in Polk County to assist deputies in security with crowd control and monitoring at events, such as the Blue Ridge Barbeque Festival, Green Creek Heritage Festival and the Columbus 4th of July celebration. THe patrol will also assist in search and rescue endeavors, furthering good will in the community on behalf of the sheriff at school functions, nursing homes, numerous annual events and anywhere they are needed.

The formation of the Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol will have far reaching impact the local community in reducing expenses for the sheriff’s office, Hill said, thereby

Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol applicants practice formations that are required to successfully complete the certification process. (photos submitted by Sheila Veach)

freeing up the sheriff’s deputies member of this mounted pafor more direct law enforcement trol,” said director Don Lyons.

Training will be conducted duties. by the Mounted Police Training Currently, more than 15 Academy Inc., horses and riders have passed “We’ve been pleased with w h i c h i s t h e accredited the required the caliber of talent, both only mounted police horse and rider academy in the inspection and horses and riders..."

-- Director Don Lyons n a t i o n . O n l y an extensive those applibackground cants that succheck and are registered for a 50-hour training cessfully complete this training will be deemed suitable for the session in October.

“We’ve been pleased with Polk County Sheriff’s Mounted the caliber of talent, both horses Patrol.

Applicants were sought from and riders, who are willing to make the required time and Polk and neighboring counties. financial commitment to be a All volunteers and their horses

will wear designated uniforms and tack while on duty.

As with any new project, many hours of planning have gone into the structure of this unit. Don Lyons, director; Sue Truitt, training and development; Sheriff Donald Hill and Lt. Michael Capps have all met extensively to develop the format for this unit. Wallace Mooney of the Henderson County Mounted Patrol has served as a mentor, as the Henderson group has been in existence since 1994.

Since this is an all-volunteer (Continued on page 11)

It is time for

FALL VACCINES. Call today to schedule your appointment. phone

www.rutherfordlargeanimal.com Appointments • October 2011 • p. 10

• Mounted patrol (continued from page 10)

operation, funds are required to cover the expenses for uniforms, training, tack and other equipment. To aid with this fund raising effort, the Mounted Patrol Partners (MPP), a group of volunteers who wish to contribute time and energy to support the mounted patrol, has been established.

Their first effort is a preview party, Thursday, Oct. 6 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Giardini Trattoria Pavilion, 2411 Hwy. 108E, Columbus. There will be beverages and hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and chances to win a “water trough of wine.” Come meet some of the riders and horses and learn more about the Polk County Mounted Patrol.

For ticket information, contact plynn@windstream.net.

- article submitted

by Peggy Lyons

A preview party will be held at Giardini’s Oct. 6 to learn more about the mounted patrol. (photo submitted

by Sjeila Veach)

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Appointments • October 2011 • p. 11

Weekend of fun at Green Creek Equestrian Park A Day in the Country, Oct. 9

The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club (TR&HC) will present the second annual A Day in the Country on Sunday, Oct. 9 at the Green Creek Equestrian Park.

Last year’s event was a laid back day of classes set on an outside course, harking back to Tryon’s equestrian roots, and this year will be much of the same. The event provides a chance to enjoy a picnic lunch while watching the competition and get a preview of the new park.

In addition to the open jumping classes in the morning, there will also be an open pleasure flat class, sponsored by Lillie Brown, for horses and ponies of any breed, type or discipline. The Ride-a-Buck class, last year’s most entertaining class of the day, will also return.

New to the 2011 event is a hunter pairs class in which a pair of riders, representing a local equestrian organization or community non-profit, will complete a jumping course together. The winning pair will earn $500, donated by Camp Wayfarer, for their group.

Any & All Dog Show, Oct. 8

The 78th TR&HC Any & All Dog Show will be held at the Green Creek Equestrian Park on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 2 - 5 p.m.

Any breed, any size, any and all mixes of canines are invited to come as long as they are on their best behavior and a leash. With a wide range of classes to enter, there is something for every dog.

They can compete for dog that looks most like its master, best costume, best trick and most doubtful ancestry.

Most importantly, your participation helps support all of the animals in need at the Foothills Humane Society. Any proceeds from the show benefit FHS.

Green Creek Equestrian Park (GCEP) Located at Highway 9, just North of Collinsville Rd. in Columbus

GCEP

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 12

Tryon Hounds puppy auction

B O N N I E L I N G E R F E LT Country Homes & Fine Equestrian Properties

Rick Webel, Pilot and Becky Barnes enjoy a fun evening at the Tryon Hounds puppy auction. (photo submitted by Jill Silver) Tryon Hounds: A brief history The Tryon Hounds and Hunt includes 182 members. This is roughly half riding members and half social membership.

There are many social events throughout the year. Starting with a kick-off party and puppy auction the Tryon Hunt gets involved for the support and care of the hounds and their needs.

After each hunt there are hunt breakfasts in the fall and winter seasons. They are special in that many are hosted by the hunt members in their homes and estates. Tryon Hounds and Hunt has also hosted many hunt breakfasts in the hunt field after hunts, these are called pitch-ins, and each member brings a dish to share.

Throughout the season Tryon Hounds has joint meets with visiting out of town hunt clubs, and there are many parties during the joint meets.

In June, Tryon Hounds partners with Equus events in the Tryon Hounds Summer Classic Horse Show. This culminates with the EMO reception for sponsors and members. It is a grand event held under a big tent at FENCE. Other fundraising parties for members are the Super Bowl

Becky Barneswith Teeny. (photo submitted by Jill Silver)

party held at Meadow Brook estate and a Derby party.

At the end of February, a hunt ball is held. It is a formal black tie affair.

- article submitted

by Barbara Childs

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 13

Michael Kocher at the first TR&HC Tryon summer premiere horse show at Harmon Field. (photo submitted by Mark Lehner Photography)

Horsemanship in the blood

By Barbara Childs

There are a variety of horses at the Blockhouse Stables of Kelly Kocher in Tryon.

“I like to ride horses that try their best and are obedient and patient, too. That includes all breeds,” said Kelly’s son, Michael.

“For showing most of my horses are warmbloods. They have a lot of athletic ability, and they are usually easier to sell. This show jumper

of this day has transformed from division. They are judged on their the Thoroughbred to the favored jumping style and movement. The warmblood. I am a firm believer fences are 3’6". Barley, Hops and in the great heart of Whey and Bachelor the thoroughbred #3 are German bred Spotlight and his big try to do horses that compete on Local the best job ever.” in the large junior There are three Equestrians divisions. Emma horses at the farm is a Holsteiner/TB that Kocher enjoys cross that competes riding and that he consistently in the small juniors. campaigns in the junior hunter “Emma probably has one of Appointments • October 2011 • p. 14

the best jumping styles I have ever seen and experienced in a horse, despite her cow-like appearance,” Kocher said.

“I also have a Selle Francais gelding named Kapers who I compete in the junior jumpers. He is like a stubborn child. Sometimes he doesn’t want to do what is expected of him, but in the end you (Continued on page 15)

Kocher credits his father for keeping him calm and focused in the ring. (photo submitted)

• Kocher

(continued from page 14)

still love him.”

The most trustworthy horse on the farm is a TB names James. Kocher’s sister competes him in in the children’s jumpers and equitation.

“He is not the fanciest horse by any means, but he always does his job,” said Kocher.

Riding is a career for Kocher, and it is also a hobby for him.

“I live and breathe it. I have a competitive spirit in the sport, but the most rewarding feeling for me is winning on a horse you have trained and brought up yourself. It is one thing to win on a horse, but the feeling of pride is completely different when you win on a horse you have trained from the beginning with trust and confidence,” said Kocher.

Marcus Ehning is one of Kocher’s favorite riders to watch.

“The Europeans are often criticised for being somewhat stiff and rough in their riding, but Ehning is so smooth and has a natural feel for his horses. He doesn’t get in the way of his horse’s jump, and he is in sync with his horses every step of the way,” said Kocher.

Kocher credits his brother Andy, who runs a stable in Tuscaloosa, Ala., and his father, Kelly, for showing him what it takes to be successful in this business.

“He also provides me with several nice horses to ride, and he is one of my best friends. Of all the famous icons that I follow, nobody comes close to my father, Kelly.

He has worked so hard with me to expose my riding and campaigns with me,” Kocher said.

He said his father drives him and the horses hundreds of miles through the wee hours of the morning, and he does the majority of the grooming and care at the shows.

“He is cool, collected, calm and he can ride the lick off of any horse he gets on. He helps me stay calm and focused in the ring, and he is one of the most knowledgeable horsemen I know. He has done so much for me and I am so ever grateful to him," said Kocher with great pride.

Kocher recently graduated from Polk County High School and plans to attend college next year after devoting a year to strictly riding. This is his last junior year in riding and he wants to be totally focused for the indoor season and year-end finals coming up soon.

“This year I would like to break into the Grand Prix ranks. I have been consistently showing in the junior jumper divisions on several horses, but I would like to see how I do in the next level. I would also like to ribbon one equitation class this year,” said Kocher.

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Appointments • October 2011 • p. 15

Artist Tina Gragg drawn to expressions

by Barbara Childs

Tina Gragg is an artist of the equine world and she chooses to portray horses with or without people. She asked her friend to paint a portrait of her horse Chester. Her friend kept saying she didn’t need to do it because Tina could paint well enough.

“I was in a car accident in September 1998 that resulted in a plate and screws being put in my right arm just below the elbow,” Gragg said. “After a year and a half it was taken out and I wasn’t allowed to ride my horse for eight weeks until the screw holes had time to fill in.

That seemed like a good time to see if I could paint.

I did my first painting and was proud of it. I chose horses to paint because I wanted a portrait of Chester, my horse and also because horses are so charis-

matic and expressive animals. each other, she said. She then I also paint flowers, butterflies, gets a better sense of the perfrogs, birds, anything colorful,” sonalities and the relationship said Gragg. people have with them. Gragg Gragg enjoys capturing the hopes to do an art show someday expression of the horse. and fill up a gallery with all her If the eyes aren’t right, the paintings. whole painting feels off to “My walls at home and at her. Sometimes it school are full, takes her weeks to so I am not as get the perfect exinspired to paint Spotlight pression. She likes since I don’t on Local using bright colors have space to fill. and acrylics.

Equestrians That’s another “I like acrylics reason portraits because they dry appeal to me. I fast and I can erase and start finish the painting, and it goes over without waiting for days and lives on somebody else’s for the paint to dry. It doesn’t wall,” she said. smell bad, either, and is easy to When Gragg moved to Polk clean up. I have done very little County 15 years ago she knew with pastels,” said Gragg. she wanted horses. She had no Portraits give her a chance to idea what a horsey area this know people and their animals was. She told her dad she felt and to see them interact with out of place living here without

a horse.

Shortly after that, her dad fenced in the acre behind the house and moved his 28-yearold quarterhorse mare, Maggie, into the pasture. She was old and swaybacked, but she was a horse. Another horse Chester followed, Katy, also came after Maggie died so Chester wouldn’t be alone.

Today Gragg has three offthe-track Thoroughbreds. Chester is now 17, Lefty is 9 and Doodles is 6.

“I attempt dressage. It is the hardest thing I have ever had to learn because there is no way to cheat or cut corners to be better.

There is no way to shortcut the fun tricks,” Gragg said. “In order to get the harder movements to come, the foundation must be (Continued on page 17)

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Appointments • October 2011 • p. 16

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• Gragg

who was taken from the owner by the SPCA. there. One of the coolest things “I remember when we went I ever did was to teach Chester to get him in Asheville. He was the lead changes. When he got in a stall with another paint it the first day, I had to stop him pony. He was as sweet as apple because I couldn’t concentrate pie on the ground, but when afterwards.

I got on him he tried to rub Another thing about dres- my ankles on the nearest tree sage is that when it is done or fence post,” she said. “Afright it is beauter Oliver came tiful to watch, Katy, a 3-yearespecially for “It stayed in the back of old 13.2 quarus who know my mind that someday I ter horse pony how hard it is. would own a horse.” that I rode many It is a remarkmiles through -- Tina Gragg able thing for th e w o o d s . I willing horses also showed to trust humans, and try so her in open shows and Western hard for us when we ask crazy pleasure classes,” said Gragg. things of them, like vaulting or “I missed riding while going barrel racing to name a few,” to college, living in an apartsaid Gragg. ment, and then there was not Gragg grew up in Fletcher, much money or time for horses.

N.C., with quarter horses, dogs It stayed in the back of my mind and cats. Her first horse was a that someday I would own a Shetland pony named Oliver horse,” said Gragg. (continued from page 16)

Gragg’s portrait of a horse. (photo submitted)

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 17

Charlie’s secret to equine longevity

by Barbara Childs

first-level dressage horse.

“My trainer at the time was Rebecca Kemp of Campobello has owned Charlie, her thorough- impressed at how well this ‘mabred mare, for 30 of Charlie’s ture’ Thoroughbred adapted to dressage,” said Kemp. “In ad33 years.

Kemp lived in Athens, Ga., dition to being special to me, and first heard of this mare when Charlie has two claims to fame. a friend of hers mentioned that the The University of Georgia vet University of Georgia vet school school asked her to be the poster had a horse that was to be sold girl featured on the invitation to through a sealed bid. The mare the First Bolshoi Program (the was 3 years old and had had two colic research program) called colic surgeries, and her owner “For the Love of a Horse.” It was a black tie affair and celebrity donated her to the vet school.

“I held the winning bid,” said auction fundraiser. Charlie was Kemp. “I thought and still think 8 years old at the time and she had just become she is beautiful. a mom. The point Born in Columof using her on the bia, S.C., she was Spotlight invitation was that sold to someone on Local if it was not for the in Camden, and she was already Equestrians Bolshoi Program she would not be jumping well at a there.”

2-foot course.

Charlie’s other claim to fame “When she was ready to enter her first show, Charlie got colice. centered around the event of The owner said she was showing becoming an Approved Mare much promise as she recovered with the American Hanoverian from the colic. In the years to Association. Upon passing the come I showed her lightly and inspection tests, Charlie received successfully as a hunter. I never a solid score with the German knew her limit jumping since the judges. The American Hanove4-foot fence she took easily was rian Association did not approve many Thoroughbred mares, so my limit,” said Kemp.

Charlie and Kemp also hill- Charlie, Kemp said, has a right topped with the Belle Meade to be proud of that achievement.

Charlie has a strong racing Hunt in Thompson, Ga., for several seasons. When she was ancestry, but she was never 14 years old, Kemp became in- raced. Her sire was Torrentes. terested in dressage, so Charlie (Continued on page 19) began her career as a respectable

Rebecca Kemp of Campobello has owned, Charlie grazing with Snickers, her daugher, for 30 of Charlie’s 33 years. (photo submitted)

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 18

Parade of hounds

Twin Oaks Veterinary Clinic

" #

# !

Tryon Hounds Huntsman Jordan Hicks parades the hounds at the Tryon Hounds Summer Classic Horse Show. The Summer Classic held in June is the hunt’s largest fundraiser each year. (photo by Erik Olsen)

• Charlie

(continued from page 16)

He was one of the best racehorses in Argentina and imported to this country as a 4-year-old.

He bowed a tendon before his first race and was retired, ending his career here. Her dam was Windyflambeau by Motor Line. Charlie’s papered name is Charleston Bay. “I understand that Charlie’s

aunt, Just Desserts, was the top money winner in S.C. in her day,� said Kemp.

Charlie still holds a place in Kemp’s heart as she grazes happily in her lush pastures with three other mare mates. “I asked Charlie what was the secret to her long life. She just smiled and kept on eating.

I thought about that and decided that was the answer - smile, exercise and keep eating well,� said Kemp.

Sean Eastman, DVM Sarah Silver, DVM, CVA * Special interest in small animal dentistry and equine lameness * Practicing high quality small animal and equine medicine

Got News?

email us at news@tryondailybulletin.com

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 19

Tw

Dudley relishes in fall foothill activities Editor’s note: Writer Barbara Childs tells of local events throughout our horse country through the eyes, and very long ears, of Dudley the miniature donkey.

by Barbara Childs

The cool fall weather and jeweled trees of autumn have started to transform the hills and mountains into a glorious carpet of golds, reds and browns. And the hunt is enjoying their mornings of hunting seasons with the cry of the hounds as they begin the cubbing season and early morning weekday hunts.

The formal season of the Tryon Hounds opens Thanksgiving Day with the blessing of the hounds by Rev. Michael Dowdy of the Episcopal Church of Tryon. All are welcome for this ceremony that dates back hundreds of years. I should like to be blessed, too!

The hunt breakfasts held in

the fields on some mornings would be great to attend, but they are for staff and field members. I would like to be part of the special foods served after the hounds are all packed up in the trailer. I heard that a southern beef tenderloin is quite popular, though I would prefer the garden lettuces, dragon’s beard sprouts and whole grain breads and biscuits. Oh, yesHere are some newsy scoops on what is happening in the equine world later this month and also next month.

Jen Beaumert is headed back home to Cross Creek with DeWert and Prince. Here are some things she will miss and not miss about her trip and training in Germany with Klaus Balkenhol.

1. She will not miss the weather, which changes every 10 minutes.

2. She will not miss mucking out a stall with straw.

3. She will miss driving on the autobahn.

4. She will miss speaking German with Klaus and all the friendly people she has met.

5. She will miss picking and eating plums straight from the trees - blackberries, too, from the bushes.

The baby is here! Born to Whitney Penny, a baby girl 22-inches long, and named Grace. Congratulations!

There will be an Icelandic Horse Show at FENCE on Oct. 30. Now that would be cool and very exciting to watch.

Check out Sandy Siegrist at Long Shadows Farm on Oct. 22 in Campobello for her body and energy work with horses.

Isothermal College in Columbus is offering a class in equine marketing 101. This involves equine marketing if your horse business includes an equine vet, farrier

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 20

services, horse massage and therapist, chiropractic and acupuncture. The course provides the tools and skills one needs to build a better business.

I should like to attend, but have limited access to mobility of transportation and of course my editor would need to take notes for me. Ah, well...being the senior member here at the barn will suffice for now. There is much to attend to daily and so much to learn and explore.

There is a mounted N.C. infantry organized here in Green Creek. Lisa Krolak and Dave Smith have saddles (very old ones and original), saddle pads, pistols, hats and horses that depict the 2nd N.C. Mounted Infantry Regiment. When the Confederates learned of their presence in Oct. 1863, a mounted battalion led by Major (Continued on page 21)

• Dudley

(continued from page 20)

J.W. Woodfin, a lawyer from Asheville, arrived, and he was shot dead as he was crossing the bridge. Check out the whole story in the next “Appointments.” Be sure to notice my photo with the old Civil War saddle and pad and hat - very cool, and it’s the real thing, a true original.

Stone Soup in Landrum is having a Saddle Up Hospice benefit. Check this out with Charlotte Costa at 828-8632000 Oct. 6 from 5-7 p.m.

I took a walk up the hill toward the house and garden and was amazed at the Swiss chard growing so big and green and wild. It truly frightened me a bit. I like to nibble lettuces but not Swiss chard and I avoid spinach. The sweet potatoes are delicious and I favor them raw.

They taste better to my palate than carrots and apples. They are the best. So are my editor’s special oatmeal and molasses horse treats.

The house dogs are all carrying on with yapping and barking at some noises in the woods, so I shall walk down to the barn office and rest awhile.

I’m working on my next series of books, which include a Dudley Cookbook, A Celebration of Life with illustrations. It’s a compilation of recipes from the middle ages for humans and equines. But first I need to get my miracle of St. Anthony story organized.

Only I know the secret to the miracle of St. Anthony and the merchant’s donkey...

Here is a winning sweet potato recipe you will enjoy.

It’s a trophy winner. As I live and breathe, these sweet potato fries will make you triumphant at any feast.

Dudley’s Sweet Potato Fries Ingredients: 1 lb. of unpeeled sweet potatoes 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 teasp. kosher salt and more for seasoning Directions: Preheat over to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut sweet potatoes cross-wise into 3/8 inches. Spread the olive oil and salt and pour it over the fries-Roast for 20 min. Flip the fries over when brown and roast for another 10 min.

Dudley’s Lime Dipping Sauce Ingredients: 1/3 cup mayo 1/2 teasp. grated lime zest 1 tbl. fresh lime juice 1/2 teasp. minced garlic pinch of kosher salt Directions: Combine all ingredients and let sit for about 10 min.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 21

My horse’s belly hurts: Colic signs, treatment

by Rich Metcalf, DVM

Colic is one of the most common calls Tryon Equine Hospital receives on an emergency basis.

Ask any owner who has watched their horse colic and they will agree it is very stressful. Watching a horse throw 1,000 pounds is not fun and can be very dangerous – even life threatening. So, what is colic?

What is colic?

Colic is a general term for “pain in the belly.” There are many reasons a horse may colic and it is not always possible to determine the exact cause. Causes of colic may include inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, twists of the small intestine and large colon, an impaction in the small intestines, cecum or large colon and small colon. As veterinarians, our job is to establish a diagnosis as quickly and accurately as possible and take the appropriate measures to treat your horse.

What are the signs of colic?

Signs a horse is suffering from colic include: lying down for excessive periods, not eating, restlessness, quivering of the upper lip, turning of the head toward the flank, repeated stretching as if to urinate, kicking with the hind feet at

the abdomen, crouching as if wanting to lie down, sweating and dropping to the ground and rolling.

Signs a horse is suffering from colic • Lying down for excessive periods • Not eating • Restlessness • Quivering of the upper lip •Turning of the head toward the flank •Repeated stretching as if to urinate • Kicking with the hind feet at the abdomen • Crouching as if wanting to lie down • Sweating • Dropping to the ground and rolling

What happens when your horse colics?

When your horse is colicing, it is important to act quickly.

When Tryon Equine vets arrive at the farm, we quickly perform a physical exam to determine heart rate, temperature and breathing rate. We listen for any gastrointestinal movement, examine the gums and more importantly observe the signs of colic. After a physi-

cal exam, we perform a rectal exam to evaluate the GI tract with our fingers. We determine what part(s) of the GI tract is involved and make assessments for therapy.

Also during the exam, we pass a tube from the nose into the horse’s stomach. Keep in mind that horses cannot throw up and this is our tool to evaluate movement of food out of the stomach and evaluate for signs of small bowel disease.

Once our “colic” workup is complete, we discuss the causes of the colic and what measures need to be taken to relieve the abdominal pain.

Our first line of defense is Banamine, a systemic antiinflammatory. Based on what we discover, we either make a plan for treatment on the farm or recommend referral into the hospital for more aggressive and intensive care. Keep in mind that a large majority of colics get better on the farm with a dose of Banamine, while being kept off feed for approximately 12 hours.

Horses that do not respond to Banamine, have an impaction, have small bowel distention or some other more serious causes of colic require further medical care. These horses are brought into the hospital for IV fluids, further medication based on need and intensive

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 22

care. Those horses that respond to high volume IV fluids and Intensive Care often receive 50 to 80 liters of IV fluids in a 12 to 24 hour period.

Colic workup steps by a vet • Physical exam • Listening for gastrointestinal movement • Examine gums • Observe signs of colic •Rectal exam •Pass tube from nose to stomach to evaluate movement of food out of the stomach and evaluate for signs of small bowel disease

Those horses that do not respond to pain medications, IV fluids and intensive care require abdominal exploratory surgery. Please note, we recommend deciding if colic surgery is an option prior to a colic episode.

It has been scientifically proven that the sooner a diagnosis is made, and the sooner a horse is referred for medical and surgical treatment, the better the recovery will be, with decreased complications.

So please, become familiar with the signs of colic and have an emergency plan in place if your horse colics.

Third annual FENCE Wine and Art Festival set for Oct. 15 The third annual FENCE Wine and Art Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15 from noon to 5 p.m. at The Red Horse Inn located at 310 N. Campbell Rd. in Landrum.

The presenting sponsor is August Construction. Other sponsors include: First Citizens Bank, Golf Cart Services, Costco, Derbyshire, Julie Gordon, LakesHillsAndHorses.com and McKinsey Printing.

There is a fee for the event, which includes admission to the festival, all wine tasting and a FENCE Wine and Art Festival wine glass.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact FENCE at development@ fence.org, call 828-859-9021 or visit www.FENCE.org.

- article submitted

by Theron Farmer Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce presents

Thann R. Boyum, D.V.M.

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828-863-4242

All You Can Eat Thann Boyum, DVM SEAFOOD PARTY

Saturday, October 22, 2011 5:00 pm—11: 00 pm

Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, Tryon NC Music & Dancing with DJ Jeff Foster

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By Connie Brown L.M.T./ E.S.M.T 17+ yrs. experience 828-980-4403

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$35/person (All you can eat without alcohol)

No Coolers Allowed For more information call: Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce 828-859-7427

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 23

A welcoming sign can be inviting to guests. (photo by Gillian Drummond)

Country living: Guest quarters

by Gillian Drummond

Do you remember the wonderful feeling you had the last time you stayed in a five-star hotel or a fine bed and breakfast? Your guest room, barn apartment or guest house can be transformed so that your guests leave feeling the same way - rested, pampered and refreshed.

Twin beds are often best in a guest room because they accommodate a variety of people.

In a room with limited space, such as the barn apartment I was recently in, a Murphy bed

can be the ideal arrangement.

A comfortable mattress is a must. It should be firm but have a soft surface so that you are supported but feel like you are sleeping on a cloud.

Linens – cotton is the ideal, it is soft, cool and launders well. Supima cotton is the best and the higher the thread count the more luxurious. If you are lucky enough to have someone to iron them or can afford to send them to the laundry your guests will sleep in the lap of luxury.

I personally prefer white

towels as they can be bleached if a guest gets make-up on them. Be generous and give your guest plenty of towels.

The same with pillows - always have extras available.

I recently saw a picture of a guest room decorated by interior designer Vincent Wolf.

It is simple and romantic. The walls are painted a beautiful shade of yellow. The twin beds are iron and are painted white; they have yellow bedskirts and white linens with embroidered, lacy pillow cases. There is a natural wicker table between

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 24

the beds and a camel-colored rug on the floor. Some simple black and white art in white frames hangs above the beds.

The pharmacy lamps that hang on the wall at the side of each bed are also white. At the windows are roman shades in a plain yellow fabric that matches the walls, with a white border down each side. You could use white faux wood wide venetian blinds. They would look wonderful and be cost-effective.

(Continued on page 25)

Less can be more.

A guest room doesn’t have to be sumptuous, it can be very simple as long as it meets certain necessary criteria.

• It must be clean and comfortable and having some style, never hurt.

• A bathroom of its own (wherever possible) • A delightful bed • A closet • Some drawers or shelves • Fresh linens • Extra blankets and pillows • A good reading lamp next to the bed • Heat in cold weather, air conditioning in summer and, perhaps, a ceiling fan • A sofa, comfortable chair or chaise longue to rest on with a throw or quilt • A room that is as free from noise as possible • A desk that can be used as a desk or double as a dressing table • A good mirror • A bench or luggage rack • Window treatments to give privacy or to control the light

• Guest rooms (continued from page 24)

Speaking of paint, the easiest, least expensive way to give a any room a wonderful look is to paint the walls a beautiful color. Benjamin Moore has a new paint chart out called the Tranquility Collection. It has many restful colors that would be perfect for a guest room.

The finishing touches that make a guest feel pampered and special are some books of short stories or interesting magazines, nice-smelling soap and shampoo in the bathroom, potpourri in a bowl and some fresh flowers in a vase in the bedroom. An alarm clock (I always forget mine), an electric coffee pot and a small refrigerator are nice additions.

If you have a guest house, remember that the same principles remain true for the living room and kitchen. Comfort, cleanliness and warmth are what I would want in guest house living room. Comfortable sofas and chairs, good light, good color on the walls

and perhaps a fireplace to sit in front of and enjoy a glass of wine in the winter months are a recipe for sure success.

One of the horse farms I recently visited had a barn apartment that was connected to the barn through the tack room.

This served as a mudroom as well, keeping the guest apartment clean and also making it easy to saddle up in the morning if you were staying there for a weekend of riding.

For the many horse farm owners that have guest quarters that are used by riders coming for equestrian events or friends coming to spend a weekend you can give them a truly memorable experience if you add a memorable room to stay in. It can be a very simple space as long as it is comfortable and leaves your guests savoring the memory.

Gillian Drummond is the owner of Drummond House Co. For questions on how to create a stylish look for your farmhouse or stable, email her at gillian@gilliandrummond. com.

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 25

Tack swap and cross country schooling for TROT at Long Shadows Horse people searching for gently-used equipment and those looking to create space for new equipment all congregated July 23 at the Super Summer Seminar and Tack Swap at the Green Creek Fire Hall.

The Carolina Carriage Club (CCC) invited the community to this event in an effort to benefit horse-related organizations.

Charlene McMurray, whose family owns a horse farm in Green Creek, attended, did some swapping and spread the word.

The result on Sept. 10 was the Tack Sale and Cross Country Schooling Day at Long Shadows Farm in Campobello, S.C. TROT (Therapeutic Riding Program of Tryon) was chosen by McMurray and Nicki Bressett, who boards and trains horses at the farm, and Michael Atkins, Long Shadows owner, to receive the proceeds from sales space “rentals” and cross country schooling fees.

Green Mountain Bluegrass entertained visitors as John and Chase McMurray grilled food to order and Charlene and Keileigh McMurray swapped tack.

“We really had no idea how many people would show up, so advertising was our first big concern, especially with such short notice and many other events in the area,” said Nicki Bressett.

Charlene McMurray put posters in any business that

Charlene McMurray at Carolina Carriage Club Swap Meet July 23. (photo submitted)

might have a horse interest, and advertised in the Tryon Daily Bulletin.

Barbara Madill, secretary of CCC, posted a flyer in the Horse People Group in Facebook.

This resulted in Franziska Long and one of her pupils driving two hours from her Rheinland Equestrian Center in Huntersville, N.C. to explore the inviting cross country course.

Others who visited the cross country course came from near (Tryon and Columbus) and far (Alva, Fla., and San Jose, Calif.).

“The Therapeutic Riding Program of Tryon (TROT) was the perfect fit, a local organization of people and animals that gives selflessly to others,” Bressett said. “Events such as this allow our community the

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 26

opportunity to come together and be stronger together than we could ever stand alone - and we learned a lot about organizing such events.”

For more information about TROT, visit www.fence.org/trot and for Long Shadows Farm, visit www.longshadowsfarmsc. com.

- article submitted Nicki Bressett

Appointments The Hoofbeats of the Carolina Foothills

Showcasing Local Horsepeople

Greenville Foothills Pony Club goes to the movies and bats in four candidates for a rating home run

Above: Julie Gates of Easley received a C+ rating. (photo submitted)

Greenville Foothills Pony Club members, left to right, Eliza Culbertson, Shady Sayers and Coley Gibson promote their club in August at the Tryon Theatre prior to the showing of the movie “Buck Branaman.” (photo submitted)

The Carolina Region Pony Club hosted a mega rating for the United States Pony Club in Aiken, S.C. in August.

Pony clubbers came from as far away as New York and Virginia to participate in the three-day event, which was held at Julie Zapapas’ Jumping Branch Farm. Eleven USPC National Examiners were flown in to determine if the rating candidates measured up to the pony club standard. Local River Valley Pony Club mom Helen Firby served as the Carolina Region’s Rating Coordinator, and arranged the location, accommodations and schedule.

The C3, B and A ratings are facilitated on a national basis and require a greater depth of knowledge and proficiency than the earlier, club-level ratings. Successful candidates are competent, all-around horsemen and horsewomen, active and contributing members of USPC, who participate in a variety of pony club activities. They are also thoughtful leaders who set an example for all levels.

Greenville Foothills Pony Club had four successful rating candidates, representing each of the top levels. Two members succeeded at the C3 rating: Sarah Whitten of Greenville, S.C. currently a sophomore at the University of South Carolina and Julia Gates of Easley, S.C. currently a junior at Easley High School. Whitten entered the rating as an HB rated member and became a C3, while Gates entered the rating as a C2 and became a C+ (once she earns the HB—knowledge portion—she will become a C3).

Rachael Wood, a 10th grade homeschooler from Easley, earned her B rating. Wood is also active in United States Eventing Association competitions, having qualified with her horse Hennessey for the Training level at the American Eventing Championships this year.

Eliza Culbertson, a Greenville Tech student who resides in Greer, S.C. earned the highest rating: A. Eliza enjoys competing (at pony club rallies, USEA competitions and local schooling shows) and foxhunting with her off-the-track thoroughbreds.

For more information on Greenville Foothills Pony Club, contact greenvillefoothillspc@gmail.com, or find them on the web at www. gfponyclub.org and on Facebook at Greenville Foothills Pony Club (SC/NC).

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 27

Appointments • October 2011 • p. 28