atlanta horse connections 4rd edition 2013
DESCRIPTION
Equestrian E-magazineTRANSCRIPT
CO
NTE
NTS
Five Minutes WithDapplebay
Clicking With Horses
INSPIRED BY THE HORSEBonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
A Grand Dam-Welli’s Lady Victory
Falconwood Vaulters
Fenwick Equestrian
New Fortune Farm
The Markel/USEF Elite Young Horse Clinic with USEF National Young Dressage Horse Coach Scott Hassler
Ride Amerika
Putting a Finger on Massage Therapy
6
22
12
30
50
40
58
66
72
90
CO
NTE
NTS
Five Minutes WithDapplebay
Clicking With Horses
INSPIRED BY THE HORSEBonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
A Grand Dam-Welli’s Lady Victory
Falconwood Vaulters
Fenwick Equestrian
New Fortune Farm
The Markel/USEF Elite Young Horse Clinic with USEF National Young Dressage Horse Coach Scott Hassler
Ride Amerika
Putting a Finger on Massage Therapy
6
22
12
30
50
40
58
66
72
90
Atlanta Horse Connections' goal is to share the inside stories of Georgia based equestrians. You will see narratives from various disciplines, breeds, equine based businesses, human and horse fashions and all things equestrian! Our goal is to unite the local equine community and build relationships so that we can work together not only to promote our industry but to jointly share our passion that we are all so proud of – our horses. We want to hear your ideas and understand what is important to you in the local equestrian world. Please feel free to write to us via email and give us your input – we value our readers, advertisers and sponsors. We are excited to be a part of the Georgia horse community and look forward to building the Atlanta Horse Connections together.
Happy Riding!
Katya [email protected]
770-896-3637
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS, ADVERTISERS
AND SUPPORTERS!
Equestrian Vaulting is a combination of gymnastics and dance on the back of a moving horse. While vaulting is fun for all, it is known for developing strength, balance, and coordination while working in harmony with the horse. Vaulting originally began centuries ago to train soldiers to fight from any direction on horseback and today is an international horse sport and one of the seven FEI disciplines.
The Falconwood Vaulters are located in Covington, Georgia and are currently the only registered equestrian vaulting team in Georgia. We are members of the American Vaulting Association, which began in 1968 several years after Vaulting was brought to the United States from Europe. Falconwood Vaulters began in the 1980’s as a small club, Falconwood Flyers, and has evolved into a competitive team that travels to local, regional, and national competitions each year.
There are two types of class events at vaulting competitions and they are offered at each level. First is the compulsory event. The exercises are slightly different for beginner vaulters than for advanced or upper level vaulters. For upper level canter vaulters, the compulsories consist of basic riding seat, flag, mill, scissors, stand, and flank off (dismount). Then, vaulters perform in a freestyle class where they can design a one minute routine to show their strengths and individuality. All competitive events are performed to music. For the horse, there is special equipment; a pad for the horses back, a surcingle with two handles, a bridle, side reins, and a lunge line. The horse is never free lunged for vaulting.
Photos on the right: (top) Kamyah Hugee performs her freestyle on Butterscotch;
(bottom) Lisa Zielenske aboard Gumby
Horses owned by Priscilla Faulkner
Covington, Georgiaby Lisa Zielen
Photo on the left:Vaulters Heidi, Molly, and Kristen perform a
Triple on Bronson
‘
6
Equestrian Vaulting is a combination of gymnastics and dance on the back of a moving horse. While vaulting is fun for all, it is known for developing strength, balance, and coordination while working in harmony with the horse. Vaulting originally began centuries ago to train soldiers to fight from any direction on horseback and today is an international horse sport and one of the seven FEI disciplines.
The Falconwood Vaulters are located in Covington, Georgia and are currently the only registered equestrian vaulting team in Georgia. We are members of the American Vaulting Association, which began in 1968 several years after Vaulting was brought to the United States from Europe. Falconwood Vaulters began in the 1980’s as a small club, Falconwood Flyers, and has evolved into a competitive team that travels to local, regional, and national competitions each year.
There are two types of class events at vaulting competitions and they are offered at each level. First is the compulsory event. The exercises are slightly different for beginner vaulters than for advanced or upper level vaulters. For upper level canter vaulters, the compulsories consist of basic riding seat, flag, mill, scissors, stand, and flank off (dismount). Then, vaulters perform in a freestyle class where they can design a one minute routine to show their strengths and individuality. All competitive events are performed to music. For the horse, there is special equipment; a pad for the horses back, a surcingle with two handles, a bridle, side reins, and a lunge line. The horse is never free lunged for vaulting.
Photos on the right: (top) Kamyah Hugee performs her freestyle on Butterscotch;
(bottom) Lisa Zielenske aboard Gumby
Horses owned by Priscilla Faulkner
Covington, Georgiaby Lisa Zielen
Photo on the left:Vaulters Heidi, Molly, and Kristen perform a
Triple on Bronson
‘
7
Main Photo: Coach and longeur Lisa with horse Butterscotch.
Left side:top - Kamyah and An Chi showing o� their ribbonsmiddle - Kamyah Hugee performs her �ag on Butterscotchbottom - Silver vaulter Katie Berube performs a cross stand on Bronson, lounger Lisa
‘‘
8
Main Photo: Coach and longeur Lisa with horse Butterscotch.
Left side:top - Kamyah and An Chi showing o� their ribbonsmiddle - Kamyah Hugee performs her �ag on Butterscotchbottom - Silver vaulter Katie Berube performs a cross stand on Bronson, lounger Lisa
‘‘
9
10
As vaulters progress from walk, to trot, and then to canter, they test for a vaulting medal. They must perform 6 compulsory exercises in front of a judge. For each medaled level, Bronze, Silver, and Gold, vaulters must score a minimum score for each compulsory exercise. These tests are done at the canter. There is also a trot medal available as well as a novice trot pin and a copper (beginning canter) pin.
Falconwood currently has both a competitive and recreational vaulting team. The recreational vaulting team does many demonstrations at local events within Newton and surrounding counties. Besides exhibitions, our competitive team travels several times a year to out of state competitions held in places such as North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. Most years we host our own USEF/AVA recognized competition. Besides local exhibitions and American Vaulting Association competitions, Falconwood silver and gold level vaulters, and our horses, were honored in 1996 as some of the few chosen to perform for the Olympic Games held at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Only 40 vaulters total were chosen from across the United States to perform at this event. Vaulters had to hold their Silver or Gold medal in order to be considered.
Again, in 2010, Falconwood silver and gold level vaulters and horses were part of the USA group of vaulters to perform at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.
In addition to our elementary school through college aged vaulters, we also offer a “tiny tots” group that involves an introduction to the horse, modified compulsory and freestyle moves, and games at the walk – and sometimes trot.
Vaulting can be an introduction to riding with work on balance, strength, and harmony in movement with the horse. For others, the goal becomes achieving in vaulting and aiming for higher medals. Whatever the goal, vaulting is a fun equine sport for all.
Claudia Thornton gives Butterscotch a kiss
before her competition
Molly Grace Thornton performs her needle on Bronson with longeur
Lisa Zielenske
Molly Grace Thornton and Elisha Jones perform a flag and arabesque on Gumby
www.falconwoodvaul ters.weebly.com
Horses owned by Priscilla Faulkner.
As vaulters progress from walk, to trot, and then to canter, they test for a vaulting medal. They must perform 6 compulsory exercises in front of a judge. For each medaled level, Bronze, Silver, and Gold, vaulters must score a minimum score for each compulsory exercise. These tests are done at the canter. There is also a trot medal available as well as a novice trot pin and a copper (beginning canter) pin.
Falconwood currently has both a competitive and recreational vaulting team. The recreational vaulting team does many demonstrations at local events within Newton and surrounding counties. Besides exhibitions, our competitive team travels several times a year to out of state competitions held in places such as North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. Most years we host our own USEF/AVA recognized competition. Besides local exhibitions and American Vaulting Association competitions, Falconwood silver and gold level vaulters, and our horses, were honored in 1996 as some of the few chosen to perform for the Olympic Games held at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. Only 40 vaulters total were chosen from across the United States to perform at this event. Vaulters had to hold their Silver or Gold medal in order to be considered.
Again, in 2010, Falconwood silver and gold level vaulters and horses were part of the USA group of vaulters to perform at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.
In addition to our elementary school through college aged vaulters, we also offer a “tiny tots” group that involves an introduction to the horse, modified compulsory and freestyle moves, and games at the walk – and sometimes trot.
Vaulting can be an introduction to riding with work on balance, strength, and harmony in movement with the horse. For others, the goal becomes achieving in vaulting and aiming for higher medals. Whatever the goal, vaulting is a fun equine sport for all.
Claudia Thornton gives Butterscotch a kiss
before her competition
Molly Grace Thornton performs her needle on Bronson with longeur
Lisa Zielenske
Molly Grace Thornton and Elisha Jones perform a flag and arabesque on Gumby
www.falconwoodvaul ters.weebly.com
Horses owned by Priscilla Faulkner.
The chances are, if you are in equestrian sport you have probably seen the exquisite products manufactured by Fenwick Equestrian.
Fenwick has been a sponsor for many local and international shows and events. Fenwick’s products have been used by world champions like Edward Gal, Michael Jung, Liza Boyd and featured on horses like Moraland Totilas and Zenyatta. Fenwick generously donated many beautiful coolers to the readers of this magazine. We would like to introduce brother and sister, Fred and Wilhelmina McEwan, who developed this beautiful line of products.
Owners of Fenwick EquestrianBrother and sister teamWilhelmina and Fred McEwan
The chances are, if you are in equestrian sport you have probably seen the exquisite products manufactured by Fenwick Equestrian.
Fenwick has been a sponsor for many local and international shows and events. Fenwick’s products have been used by world champions like Edward Gal, Michael Jung, Liza Boyd and featured on horses like Moraland Totilas and Zenyatta. Fenwick generously donated many beautiful coolers to the readers of this magazine. We would like to introduce brother and sister, Fred and Wilhelmina McEwan, who developed this beautiful line of products.
Owners of Fenwick EquestrianBrother and sister teamWilhelmina and Fred McEwan
Wilhelmina and Fred McEwan’s involvement with horses began in Fenwick, Ontario,
Canada. For Wilhelmina, those riding lessons evolved into a life-long career with
horses. As a teenager, Wilhelmina rode with the Alamo Pony Club in San Antonio,
Texas. She successfully competed on the Texas show circuit winning many
championships in the hunter, jumper and equitation divisions under the coaching of
Col. John W. Russell, while Fred was beginning his riding career with his pony, Irish
Rover. By the mid 1970’s, Wilhelmina was competing on the Grand Prix circuit in the
United States and Canada, while spending a summer in Germany with Hans Winkler.
Wilhelmina was a member of the 1976 Canadian Equestrian Team at Spruce
Meadows and competed in the 1977 American Invitational, aboard Mr. Dennis, an
Australian thoroughbred.
During the summers as a teenager, Fred was trying his hand in the thoroughbred
industry in various jobs at SamSon Farm in Canada and Normandy Farm and
Spendthrift Farm in Kentucky. He also spent time at the race track with
thoroughbred trainers Mike Bell and Peter Howe. He then gained experience at the
sales working at Lanes End and Mill Ridge.
As Director of Racing for Spendthrift Farm, home to Triple Crown winners Seattle
Slew and A�rmed, Wilhelmina had the opportunity to closely work with some of the
top trainers in the world, including D. Wayne Lukas who trained Kentucky Oaks
winner Lucky Lucky Lucky for her father-in-law, Leslie Combs. Wilhelmina was closely
involved with the inaugural Breeders' Cup at Hollywood Park and continues to work
closely with the World Championship event through Fenwick’s sponsorship. She
then obtained her trainer’s license and successfully campaigned in New York and
Florida having her �rst winner at Calder Race Course. Wilhelmina feels her greatest
accomplishment as a trainer was breeding and training Clark Cottage, a G1 stakes
�lly in New York.
Wilhelmina is a member of USEF, TOBA, KTA and a board member of NTRA's HorsePac
and SCTOBA. She has written a chapter on the Thoroughbred Industry for Marlene
Jupiter’s New York best seller, “Savvy Investing for Women”. Wilhelmina was a
recipient of the 2004 Business Advisory Council’s Businesswoman of the Year award
for South Carolina.
Wilhelmina McEwan
Royal Brigade, Warrenton Horse Show, 1971
Acapulco Gold, Spruce Meadows 1976
Wilhelmina and Fred McEwan’s involvement with horses began in Fenwick, Ontario,
Canada. For Wilhelmina, those riding lessons evolved into a life-long career with
horses. As a teenager, Wilhelmina rode with the Alamo Pony Club in San Antonio,
Texas. She successfully competed on the Texas show circuit winning many
championships in the hunter, jumper and equitation divisions under the coaching of
Col. John W. Russell, while Fred was beginning his riding career with his pony, Irish
Rover. By the mid 1970’s, Wilhelmina was competing on the Grand Prix circuit in the
United States and Canada, while spending a summer in Germany with Hans Winkler.
Wilhelmina was a member of the 1976 Canadian Equestrian Team at Spruce
Meadows and competed in the 1977 American Invitational, aboard Mr. Dennis, an
Australian thoroughbred.
During the summers as a teenager, Fred was trying his hand in the thoroughbred
industry in various jobs at SamSon Farm in Canada and Normandy Farm and
Spendthrift Farm in Kentucky. He also spent time at the race track with
thoroughbred trainers Mike Bell and Peter Howe. He then gained experience at the
sales working at Lanes End and Mill Ridge.
As Director of Racing for Spendthrift Farm, home to Triple Crown winners Seattle
Slew and A�rmed, Wilhelmina had the opportunity to closely work with some of the
top trainers in the world, including D. Wayne Lukas who trained Kentucky Oaks
winner Lucky Lucky Lucky for her father-in-law, Leslie Combs. Wilhelmina was closely
involved with the inaugural Breeders' Cup at Hollywood Park and continues to work
closely with the World Championship event through Fenwick’s sponsorship. She
then obtained her trainer’s license and successfully campaigned in New York and
Florida having her �rst winner at Calder Race Course. Wilhelmina feels her greatest
accomplishment as a trainer was breeding and training Clark Cottage, a G1 stakes
�lly in New York.
Wilhelmina is a member of USEF, TOBA, KTA and a board member of NTRA's HorsePac
and SCTOBA. She has written a chapter on the Thoroughbred Industry for Marlene
Jupiter’s New York best seller, “Savvy Investing for Women”. Wilhelmina was a
recipient of the 2004 Business Advisory Council’s Businesswoman of the Year award
for South Carolina.
Wilhelmina McEwan
Royal Brigade, Warrenton Horse Show, 1971
Acapulco Gold, Spruce Meadows 1976
Wilhelmina and Cat�shFenwick Equestrian Training Center
Wilhelmina and Cat�shFenwick Equestrian Training Center
Fenwick is proud to announce the addition of a high performance cooler using natural Jade to our collection of exclusive equine clothing. The cooling process of this product is naturally activated by body heat. Like all of our other products, the Jade cooler is moisture wicking, breathable and machine wash & dry.
Jade brings luck and charm in the traditional Chinese culture and Fenwick Equestrian knows that all horsemen need luck, so we bring you “The Jade Cooler”. This revolutionary new process can reduce the skin surface temperature up to 10*F. Jade particles are infused into the fabric to produce a natural cooling e�ect. This cooling e�ect is activated when the body heats up and it continues to cool with body motion.
Folklore tells us about a queen in the Tan Dynasty who had Jade embedded in her clothing to ease the summer heat. Jade has also been used in jewelry for centuries, with no adverse e�ects to the body or skin.
Research shows that Jade contains elements like zinc, magnesium, copper, selenium, chromium and cobalt which can help balance and generate energy in the body. Imagine how helpful this can be when cooling out your horse after a strenuous e�ort. During scienti�c testing of this fabric on human joggers, it has been proven to de�nitely reduce recovery time. This is another drug-free, cutting-edge product from Fenwick .
The patented technology of this fabric o�sets heat and raises the quantity of water absorption which helps to cool your horse faster. Special characteristics of natural Jade allow this fabric to have a cool feeling because it requires a higher energy to become warm compared to cooling fabrics that are on the market today.
Our Jade coolers were presented to all the champions at the 2012 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.
The Jade coolers will be available in white, black, green and royal blue.
They will be available in the Spring of 2013
Really “COOL”New Fabric
Introducing Jade Coolers by Fenwick Equestrian!
For More Information Please Visit the Website:www.fenwickfarm.com
Fenwick is proud to announce the addition of a high performance cooler using natural Jade to our collection of exclusive equine clothing. The cooling process of this product is naturally activated by body heat. Like all of our other products, the Jade cooler is moisture wicking, breathable and machine wash & dry.
Jade brings luck and charm in the traditional Chinese culture and Fenwick Equestrian knows that all horsemen need luck, so we bring you “The Jade Cooler”. This revolutionary new process can reduce the skin surface temperature up to 10*F. Jade particles are infused into the fabric to produce a natural cooling e�ect. This cooling e�ect is activated when the body heats up and it continues to cool with body motion.
Folklore tells us about a queen in the Tan Dynasty who had Jade embedded in her clothing to ease the summer heat. Jade has also been used in jewelry for centuries, with no adverse e�ects to the body or skin.
Research shows that Jade contains elements like zinc, magnesium, copper, selenium, chromium and cobalt which can help balance and generate energy in the body. Imagine how helpful this can be when cooling out your horse after a strenuous e�ort. During scienti�c testing of this fabric on human joggers, it has been proven to de�nitely reduce recovery time. This is another drug-free, cutting-edge product from Fenwick .
The patented technology of this fabric o�sets heat and raises the quantity of water absorption which helps to cool your horse faster. Special characteristics of natural Jade allow this fabric to have a cool feeling because it requires a higher energy to become warm compared to cooling fabrics that are on the market today.
Our Jade coolers were presented to all the champions at the 2012 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.
The Jade coolers will be available in white, black, green and royal blue.
They will be available in the Spring of 2013
Really “COOL”New Fabric
Introducing Jade Coolers by Fenwick Equestrian!
For More Information Please Visit the Website:www.fenwickfarm.com
Welcome to New Fortune Farm - a unique sales and training facility, designed as an equestrian mountain lodge in North Georgia. The custom-made beam work catches your attention as you pull into the driveway. Large framed barn doors welcome you at the entry of the barn. As you walk inside you notice hand-forged iron lights in the ceiling, and as you walk past the stall fronts you will see defined columns made out of stones with a large horseshoe built in the middle. The bathroom has a unique rustic copper pot turned into a sink. There are granite countertops in the feed and tack room. Upstairs, there is a lounge with a full kitchen also detailed in granite. There is a baby grand piano and a cozy leather couch to comfort New Fortune Farm employees and visitors. Stay warm by the wood-burning stove, while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea. The large window opens up a delightful view of the Dressage Arena. It is a great place to enjoy your visit while horse shopping. New Fortune Farm was designed and built by its owner, Chase New, who also happens to be a in-house Farrier.
With Chase New and Destre’ Meyer
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
Chase New
Welcome to New Fortune Farm - a unique sales and training facility, designed as an equestrian mountain lodge in North Georgia. The custom-made beam work catches your attention as you pull into the driveway. Large framed barn doors welcome you at the entry of the barn. As you walk inside you notice hand-forged iron lights in the ceiling, and as you walk past the stall fronts you will see defined columns made out of stones with a large horseshoe built in the middle. The bathroom has a unique rustic copper pot turned into a sink. There are granite countertops in the feed and tack room. Upstairs, there is a lounge with a full kitchen also detailed in granite. There is a baby grand piano and a cozy leather couch to comfort New Fortune Farm employees and visitors. Stay warm by the wood-burning stove, while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea. The large window opens up a delightful view of the Dressage Arena. It is a great place to enjoy your visit while horse shopping. New Fortune Farm was designed and built by its owner, Chase New, who also happens to be a in-house Farrier.
With Chase New and Destre’ Meyer
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
Chase New
The main focus of the farm is to train and showcase sale horses. New Fortune Farm offers great selections of young through FEI horses for sale. New Fortune trainer, Destre’ Meyer, handpicks great prospects from Florida and even from the West Coast. Meyer prefers to work with top breeders and judges to help her with the horse selections. She is always on lookout for young horses with great athletic abilities, friendly temperaments and high trainability. Destre’ Meyer is a USDF Silver and Bronze medalist with a lot of accomplishments and recognitions. Even after numbers of setbacks as a rider due to a devastating fall and colic surgery on her favorite horse, Millenium, Destre’ is ready to take her riding ability to the next level. With the help of Sue Kolstad she is now winning the Prix St Georges classes in Florida.
Millenium matured and bloomed into a dynamic, beautiful, athletic and very strong horse. He was a big winner at the Breed Shows when he was a colt through the Young Horse FEI tests, and later winning Grand Champion at a Breed Show. Destre’ and Millenium have numerous wins and accomplishments together. Destre’ has
extensive knowledge of the equestrian industry. With years of dedication to the horse world, Destre’ has worked as manager of several Breed Shows and served as Vice President of Dressage for Georgia Dressage and the Combined Training Association, she was on the GDCTA board of directors for 5 years and also became a part of the Young Horse Committee. Destre also completed the USDF ‘L’ program. “I really enjoyed it. I even sat with late judge Betsey Berry before she passed. I did ‘D2’ in Seattle, Washington. I had to fly my scribe out there. It was an experience,” said Destre.
Destre’ worked with Scott Hassle and helped him to come here for the first young horse training symposium in Georgia. Focusing on the Hanoverian breed, Destre’ starts the horses, prepares them for the inspections and mare performance tests, and works through all the necessary steps to assure right development of a young athlete.
Destre’ Meyer with Millenium
NewFORTUNEFA RM
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
Destre’ Meyer and Millenium winning Prix St Georges class in Florida
The main focus of the farm is to train and showcase sale horses. New Fortune Farm offers great selections of young through FEI horses for sale. New Fortune trainer, Destre’ Meyer, handpicks great prospects from Florida and even from the West Coast. Meyer prefers to work with top breeders and judges to help her with the horse selections. She is always on lookout for young horses with great athletic abilities, friendly temperaments and high trainability. Destre’ Meyer is a USDF Silver and Bronze medalist with a lot of accomplishments and recognitions. Even after numbers of setbacks as a rider due to a devastating fall and colic surgery on her favorite horse, Millenium, Destre’ is ready to take her riding ability to the next level. With the help of Sue Kolstad she is now winning the Prix St Georges classes in Florida.
Millenium matured and bloomed into a dynamic, beautiful, athletic and very strong horse. He was a big winner at the Breed Shows when he was a colt through the Young Horse FEI tests, and later winning Grand Champion at a Breed Show. Destre’ and Millenium have numerous wins and accomplishments together. Destre’ has
extensive knowledge of the equestrian industry. With years of dedication to the horse world, Destre’ has worked as manager of several Breed Shows and served as Vice President of Dressage for Georgia Dressage and the Combined Training Association, she was on the GDCTA board of directors for 5 years and also became a part of the Young Horse Committee. Destre also completed the USDF ‘L’ program. “I really enjoyed it. I even sat with late judge Betsey Berry before she passed. I did ‘D2’ in Seattle, Washington. I had to fly my scribe out there. It was an experience,” said Destre.
Destre’ worked with Scott Hassle and helped him to come here for the first young horse training symposium in Georgia. Focusing on the Hanoverian breed, Destre’ starts the horses, prepares them for the inspections and mare performance tests, and works through all the necessary steps to assure right development of a young athlete.
Destre’ Meyer with Millenium
NewFORTUNEFA RM
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
Destre’ Meyer and Millenium winning Prix St Georges class in Florida
Sue Kolstad, who is also involved with
New Fortune training program, brings a
tone of expertise to New Fortune Farm
clients. Sue is a 'S' judge with over 30
years of experience in training and judging,
she judges many prestigous shows, from
the White Fences shows in Wellington
Florida, to shows all the way in Alaska! In
fact one of the horses Destre’ trained was
sold in Alaska to one of Sue’s clients in
Anchorage. It was quite an experience to
FedEx the horse to his new location in
Alaska.
Sue just wrote a new article on dressage
for Hunters and other disciplines Sue
explains how riders from different
disciplines including western use dressage
to improve their horses’ performance.
Sue Kolstad will be available for clinics and
lessons at the New Fortune Farm. Sue
also will be judging the GDCTA Dressage
show in Conyers in April 2013.
Destre’ Meyer with MillenniumPhotos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
NewFORTUNEFA RM Sue Kolstad on Fruhlich
Sue Kolstad, who is also involved with
New Fortune training program, brings a
tone of expertise to New Fortune Farm
clients. Sue is a 'S' judge with over 30
years of experience in training and judging,
she judges many prestigous shows, from
the White Fences shows in Wellington
Florida, to shows all the way in Alaska! In
fact one of the horses Destre’ trained was
sold in Alaska to one of Sue’s clients in
Anchorage. It was quite an experience to
FedEx the horse to his new location in
Alaska.
Sue just wrote a new article on dressage
for Hunters and other disciplines Sue
explains how riders from different
disciplines including western use dressage
to improve their horses’ performance.
Sue Kolstad will be available for clinics and
lessons at the New Fortune Farm. Sue
also will be judging the GDCTA Dressage
show in Conyers in April 2013.
Destre’ Meyer with MillenniumPhotos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
NewFORTUNEFA RM Sue Kolstad on Fruhlich
Destre’ and Chase met about 11 years ago. Chase was recommended to Destre’ by a local veterenarian. “Chase was always very helpful with my horses and he was the first one to shoe Millenium when he was just two years old” said Destre’. Since both worked with the breeders, they started discussing a need for sales and training facility that is affordable, yet functional and convenient for breeders who need training services for young horses. Five years later – the dream came through and a new facility is ready to roll! Chase has been very supportive, he sponsors Millenium's horse shoeing and always puts the magic touch to his hooves, to make sure Millenium puts his best hoof forward. Chase truly is a gifted farrier. He has been shoeing horses since he was just 17 years old. He genuinely loves working with animals and the outdoors. Chase wants to expand the farm program to offer an equine lameness clinic. He plans to build another barn for the clinic horses to stay overnight, maybe even some cabins for the human guests.
“I think Chase will just keep on building - it seems to keep him happy. It keeps me happy too,” added Destre’, “I'm very excited about all our plans, we make a great team. The place is just getting better with each addition to the farm. We even have a lovely mare we plan on breeding. I would love to have a cute foal next year to show!” said Destre. The future is bright for New Fortune Farm!
For more information, please make a connection: www.facebook.com/NewFortuneFarm
15285 Fincher Rd, Canton, Georgia 30114404-246-8492
Destre’ Meyer with Millenium
NewFORTUNEFA RM
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
Destre’ and Chase met about 11 years ago. Chase was recommended to Destre’ by a local veterenarian. “Chase was always very helpful with my horses and he was the first one to shoe Millenium when he was just two years old” said Destre’. Since both worked with the breeders, they started discussing a need for sales and training facility that is affordable, yet functional and convenient for breeders who need training services for young horses. Five years later – the dream came through and a new facility is ready to roll! Chase has been very supportive, he sponsors Millenium's horse shoeing and always puts the magic touch to his hooves, to make sure Millenium puts his best hoof forward. Chase truly is a gifted farrier. He has been shoeing horses since he was just 17 years old. He genuinely loves working with animals and the outdoors. Chase wants to expand the farm program to offer an equine lameness clinic. He plans to build another barn for the clinic horses to stay overnight, maybe even some cabins for the human guests.
“I think Chase will just keep on building - it seems to keep him happy. It keeps me happy too,” added Destre’, “I'm very excited about all our plans, we make a great team. The place is just getting better with each addition to the farm. We even have a lovely mare we plan on breeding. I would love to have a cute foal next year to show!” said Destre. The future is bright for New Fortune Farm!
For more information, please make a connection: www.facebook.com/NewFortuneFarm
15285 Fincher Rd, Canton, Georgia 30114404-246-8492
Destre’ Meyer with Millenium
NewFORTUNEFA RM
Photos by Rather Be Riding Photography, Aly Rattazzi
The Markel/USEF Elite Young Horse Clinic with USEF National Young Dressage Horse Coach Scott Hassler held February 2 and 3 at Shannondale Farm in Milton, Georgia. “As a professional trainer, it was a wonderful
opportunity to work with a world-class coach; to
receive an affirmation of our training path. Not
only is he a world-class coach, but he brings an
energy and enthusiasm for this program that is
unparalleled. It was much appreciated. I want to
thank the sponsors, Markel, USEF, and GDCTA;
we wouldn’t be here without them. Thank you to
Shannondale Farm for the use of your lovely
facility.”
Stacey Myer (SC) and Finneus
Ten young horses ages 4-6 who are preparing for USEF Young Horse Competition in 2013 were presented during the two-day event. The format was designed to help assess the performance potential of these talented young horses and to properly prepare them with strategies for successful training and competition. Scott addressed the quality of gaits and training necessary to make the FEI Young Horse Tests a realistic goal.
By June Brewer
CLINIC REPORT
Scott Hassler, Laura Wharton-Mero riding Oh FiddleDeeDee
Auditors
Caren Caverly
The Markel/USEF Elite Young Horse Clinic with USEF National Young Dressage Horse Coach Scott Hassler held February 2 and 3 at Shannondale Farm in Milton, Georgia. “As a professional trainer, it was a wonderful
opportunity to work with a world-class coach; to
receive an affirmation of our training path. Not
only is he a world-class coach, but he brings an
energy and enthusiasm for this program that is
unparalleled. It was much appreciated. I want to
thank the sponsors, Markel, USEF, and GDCTA;
we wouldn’t be here without them. Thank you to
Shannondale Farm for the use of your lovely
facility.”
Stacey Myer (SC) and Finneus
Ten young horses ages 4-6 who are preparing for USEF Young Horse Competition in 2013 were presented during the two-day event. The format was designed to help assess the performance potential of these talented young horses and to properly prepare them with strategies for successful training and competition. Scott addressed the quality of gaits and training necessary to make the FEI Young Horse Tests a realistic goal.
By June Brewer
CLINIC REPORT
Scott Hassler, Laura Wharton-Mero riding Oh FiddleDeeDee
Auditors
Caren Caverly
18 from left to rightGil Merrick, Pagan Gilman, Scott Hassler, Lisa Seger, John Seger
19
The first part of the training session was used to warm up the horse, both mentally and physically. This time allowed it to loosen its joints and warm its muscles. Training should be progressive, logical, and performed in a manner based on the individual horse’s needs. Scott asked each rider to warm up as they normally would before he began to give instruction and critique.
His comments were always made in a constructive, and instructive, manner. When one rider was asked to create a more consistent rhythm in the trot, Scott described the technique, “Your whip is the rhythm, like a whisper on his side.”
Scott‘s ease in the ring as a coach was complimented by a desire to always be fair to the horse. He reminded us all that everything he was coaching the riders to do he has to do himself when he rides. He sees himself and riders as coaches for their horses, mentioning that he studies coaching from a variety of sports to improve his ringside skills.
A strong supporter of the Young Horse Program and USDF Award-winning breeder, Annetta Coleman of High Valley Hanoverians said she believes this is a much-needed program. “Scott is an exceptional trainer - encouraging, thoughtful, and constructive. The
program is offering developing young dressage horses in the US the unique opportunity to develop at an international pace. I am a passionate fan!”
If she could change one thing, she would make this training opportunity available more often than it is, saying, “We are thirsty for more!” Perhaps USDF could encourage GMOs to support young horse programs at the local level. Financial grants and incentives would also be helpful.
Pagan Gilman of Lisa Seger Insurance took away this tidbit, “If we hope to compete at an international level, we as a national need to stop babying our youngsters. They need to be exposed to the noise and excitement they can expect to experience at a European show grounds, particularly if your goals include the Markel/USEF Selection Trials for the FEI World Breeding Championships (The 2013 FEI World Breeding Championships, Verden, Germany, August 7-11, 2013.)”
Thank you to GDCTA and USEF for bringing this clinic to Georgia. To Julie and David Shannon, thank you for hosting the clinic at your lovely facility! It was educational and inspirational.
Anneliese Vogt-Harber, Vanessa Barnes, with Hot Black Chocolate
Kim Gentry and Leonardo
Scott Hassler, Rick Sauerman riding Ralahari
Ashley Marascalco riding Rebellienne HVH (photo by Annetta Coleman)
The first part of the training session was used to warm up the horse, both mentally and physically. This time allowed it to loosen its joints and warm its muscles. Training should be progressive, logical, and performed in a manner based on the individual horse’s needs. Scott asked each rider to warm up as they normally would before he began to give instruction and critique.
His comments were always made in a constructive, and instructive, manner. When one rider was asked to create a more consistent rhythm in the trot, Scott described the technique, “Your whip is the rhythm, like a whisper on his side.”
Scott‘s ease in the ring as a coach was complimented by a desire to always be fair to the horse. He reminded us all that everything he was coaching the riders to do he has to do himself when he rides. He sees himself and riders as coaches for their horses, mentioning that he studies coaching from a variety of sports to improve his ringside skills.
A strong supporter of the Young Horse Program and USDF Award-winning breeder, Annetta Coleman of High Valley Hanoverians said she believes this is a much-needed program. “Scott is an exceptional trainer - encouraging, thoughtful, and constructive. The
program is offering developing young dressage horses in the US the unique opportunity to develop at an international pace. I am a passionate fan!”
If she could change one thing, she would make this training opportunity available more often than it is, saying, “We are thirsty for more!” Perhaps USDF could encourage GMOs to support young horse programs at the local level. Financial grants and incentives would also be helpful.
Pagan Gilman of Lisa Seger Insurance took away this tidbit, “If we hope to compete at an international level, we as a national need to stop babying our youngsters. They need to be exposed to the noise and excitement they can expect to experience at a European show grounds, particularly if your goals include the Markel/USEF Selection Trials for the FEI World Breeding Championships (The 2013 FEI World Breeding Championships, Verden, Germany, August 7-11, 2013.)”
Thank you to GDCTA and USEF for bringing this clinic to Georgia. To Julie and David Shannon, thank you for hosting the clinic at your lovely facility! It was educational and inspirational.
Anneliese Vogt-Harber, Vanessa Barnes, with Hot Black Chocolate
Kim Gentry and Leonardo
Scott Hassler, Rick Sauerman riding Ralahari
Ashley Marascalco riding Rebellienne HVH (photo by Annetta Coleman)
A riding simulator is the latest that modern technology has to offer a rider. Much like pilots and race car drivers use their respective simulators to hone skills, practice handling particular situations, and get hours of practice without wear and tear on their equipment, riding simulators are used for the same things and more!
Developed by Racewood Industries in England, the first simulator was for race horse jockeys. It was so successful in evaluating, testing, and developing jockey skills that today, in order to get a racing card (ie, be allowed to ride race horses in England) a certain number of hours must be spent on the racing simulator. Luckily Racewood Industries didn’t stop there; they continued developing simulators for the other riding disciplines. They now offer models from a simple walk-trot version to polo with a returning ball, to jumping, and even a highly tuned school master for dressage.
By Beth Collins
RideAMERIKATry A Riding--Simulator...
Have you ever heard of such a thing?
Beth Collins at Sonday Farm
Photo by:Walter Stickley of Wilmington NC
A riding simulator is the latest that modern technology has to offer a rider. Much like pilots and race car drivers use their respective simulators to hone skills, practice handling particular situations, and get hours of practice without wear and tear on their equipment, riding simulators are used for the same things and more!
Developed by Racewood Industries in England, the first simulator was for race horse jockeys. It was so successful in evaluating, testing, and developing jockey skills that today, in order to get a racing card (ie, be allowed to ride race horses in England) a certain number of hours must be spent on the racing simulator. Luckily Racewood Industries didn’t stop there; they continued developing simulators for the other riding disciplines. They now offer models from a simple walk-trot version to polo with a returning ball, to jumping, and even a highly tuned school master for dressage.
By Beth Collins
RideAMERIKATry A Riding--Simulator...
Have you ever heard of such a thing?
Beth Collins at Sonday Farm
Photo by:Walter Stickley of Wilmington NC
These simulators are fully interactive, meaning that they respond to the rider’s natural aides and feel very much like the real thing. They do not misbehave, get tired, or go lame. Because the simulator is programmed for optimum application of seat, leg, and hand, it is able to give the rider real-time feedback to help clarify and refine their skills. Riding lessons on living horses tend to be a hit-or-miss affair. Success is dependent on the tractability of the horse being ridden, the footing, the weather, and timeframe.
It is not practical for a rider to practice one skill throughout the entire lesson even if that is the skill that needs the most attention. On a simulator not only can one skill be practiced, one movement ridden over and over ad nauseum, but due to the fact that the simulator is stationary the instructor can nitpick the particulars from right next to the
rider instead of trying to see it all for across a dusty arena.
Think of how much better a rider can become with targeted training like that! Becoming a good rider takes hours and hours in the saddle, no doubt, but what if the majority of those hours are spent practicing “wrong”?
Proper muscle memory is something athletes in other sports spend a great deal of time developing—riders, not so much. This has to do with having two living beings involved in the sport together. But, riders need to be able to reproduce clear, even, light aids on many different horses. The truth is, patterns will develop around strengths and weaknesses of each particular person. On a simulator these patterns can be identified and corrected.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=u8aeEqS5igk
These simulators are fully interactive, meaning that they respond to the rider’s natural aides and feel very much like the real thing. They do not misbehave, get tired, or go lame. Because the simulator is programmed for optimum application of seat, leg, and hand, it is able to give the rider real-time feedback to help clarify and refine their skills. Riding lessons on living horses tend to be a hit-or-miss affair. Success is dependent on the tractability of the horse being ridden, the footing, the weather, and timeframe.
It is not practical for a rider to practice one skill throughout the entire lesson even if that is the skill that needs the most attention. On a simulator not only can one skill be practiced, one movement ridden over and over ad nauseum, but due to the fact that the simulator is stationary the instructor can nitpick the particulars from right next to the
rider instead of trying to see it all for across a dusty arena.
Think of how much better a rider can become with targeted training like that! Becoming a good rider takes hours and hours in the saddle, no doubt, but what if the majority of those hours are spent practicing “wrong”?
Proper muscle memory is something athletes in other sports spend a great deal of time developing—riders, not so much. This has to do with having two living beings involved in the sport together. But, riders need to be able to reproduce clear, even, light aids on many different horses. The truth is, patterns will develop around strengths and weaknesses of each particular person. On a simulator these patterns can be identified and corrected.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=u8aeEqS5igk
16
What if proper muscle memory was developed on a simulator before ever sitting on a horse? The Spanish Riding School in Vienna keeps their riders on a lunge line sometimes for years before allowing them to ride by themselves. A dressage simulator would replicate this experience with the added bonus that the reins could be taken up from the beginning without sacrificing a living horse’s mouth. While still relatively rare here in the United States, simulators are popping up around the country.
Skeptics of this new technology are being won over after one short ride on Amerika. Not only are they surprised at how challenging it can be but also how much fun it is. Studies have shown learning is more effective not during times of stress but during times of open relaxation and joy. Riding simulators have a very exciting future in the horse world. Improving riders in less time and saving countless school horses the suffering of first time riders.
Beth Collins the owner/operator of Ride Amerika gives private lessons and clinics at her farm in Ellenboro, North Carolina.
Prospect Hill Dressage Farm in Alpharetta, owned by USDF Gold
Medalist Karen McGoldrick is once again hosting a Ride Amerika
simulator clinic in February 23-24, 2013. For more information about
the clinic, please contact June Brewer at
17
What if proper muscle memory was developed on a simulator before ever sitting on a horse? The Spanish Riding School in Vienna keeps their riders on a lunge line sometimes for years before allowing them to ride by themselves. A dressage simulator would replicate this experience with the added bonus that the reins could be taken up from the beginning without sacrificing a living horse’s mouth. While still relatively rare here in the United States, simulators are popping up around the country.
Skeptics of this new technology are being won over after one short ride on Amerika. Not only are they surprised at how challenging it can be but also how much fun it is. Studies have shown learning is more effective not during times of stress but during times of open relaxation and joy. Riding simulators have a very exciting future in the horse world. Improving riders in less time and saving countless school horses the suffering of first time riders.
Beth Collins the owner/operator of Ride Amerika gives private lessons and clinics at her farm in Ellenboro, North Carolina.
Prospect Hill Dressage Farm in Alpharetta, owned by USDF Gold
Medalist Karen McGoldrick is once again hosting a Ride Amerika
simulator clinic in February 23-24, 2013. For more information about
the clinic, please contact June Brewer at
Amerika offers riders a way to practice posture and position as well as develop a balanced seat while in a controlled environment.
The simulator is the same size as a real horse and its action is very close to the natural feel of a real horse. Riding Amerika enables the rider (and instructor) to learn a lot in a very short space of time.
Ride Amerika!
"A beautiful position is a beautiful position because it WORKS."
Riding Amerika gives us an important tool to take advantage of this basic maxim.
CLINIC
Benefits: • learn to ride correctly and in a safe environment • perfect for people with injuries or loss of confidence • discover proper balance and
biomechanics of horse and rider • increase fitness and core strength • perfect for all riders who want to enhance their flatwork/dressage using the same muscles as when riding a real horse
Take a lesson on the perfect schoolmaster!
CLINIC CONTACT June Brewer 678-677-4404 [email protected]
13925 Hagood Rd Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 770-475-3139 http://phfdressage.com/
Take a lesson on the perfect schoolmaster!
Date: February 23-24, 2013
Location: Alpharetta, Georgia
• For Experienced & Competitive Riders
• For Novice or Nervous Riders
• Returning to Fitness
• For Children
Putting a Finger on Massage TherapyEveryone knows massage feels good. Normally when one thinks about massage they envision soft music, nice oils, dim lights, and a very relaxing time to ease away stress. And while massage therapy can be that very scenario, it can be so much more at the same time. With so many different
types of massage therapy literally at the hands of therapists there is an unlimited way to use this type of alternative therapy. And for our horse partners it can be utilized to help them recover from training, perform at their best, and also in rehabilitation of injures.
On the simplest level, massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of normalizing the tissue. This includes, but is not limited to, the muscle, tendons, ligaments, and
fascia. Massage consists of a group of manual techniques that includes
applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, and/or causing movement of or to the body. While massage therapy is applied primarily with the hands, sometimes the forearms or elbows are also
used. The basic philosophy of massage therapy embraces the
concept of aiding the body’s ability to heal itself, and is aimed at
achieving or increasing health and well-being for the patient. The other goals of using massage therapy are to promote circulation, drainage, relaxation or stimulation, and resolving any muscle-related problems including stress or trigger points.
The body responds to massage in many ways and all are beneficial. It works on the central nervous system to create a calming relaxation effect which lowers stress. More blood and oxygen is brought into the muscles allowing them to remove waste products and bring in vital nutrients. The muscles can work more effectively without restrictions or adhesions thus the chances of injury can be decreased. There are many more benefits beyond the ones mentioned.
There are many different forms of massage therapy and generally a skilled therapist will be trained in multiple techniques. Each form of massage therapy generally has the same end results, but each uses different approaches and techniques to achieve them. This means that each different modality has its specific uses and advantages in certain situations. Most therapists are trained in multiple techniques allowing them to work with a wider caseload. Below is a short description of the more common forms of massage.
by Amanda Moretz Starr
Stretching before and after rides is a great way to not only keep the muscles loose, but also access for any potential tightness in the body.
Finding the right environment for the horse for their massage session is key! They need to be comfortable and feel safe. This pony decided for her that meant having her best friend nearby.
Putting a Finger on Massage TherapyEveryone knows massage feels good. Normally when one thinks about massage they envision soft music, nice oils, dim lights, and a very relaxing time to ease away stress. And while massage therapy can be that very scenario, it can be so much more at the same time. With so many different
types of massage therapy literally at the hands of therapists there is an unlimited way to use this type of alternative therapy. And for our horse partners it can be utilized to help them recover from training, perform at their best, and also in rehabilitation of injures.
On the simplest level, massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of normalizing the tissue. This includes, but is not limited to, the muscle, tendons, ligaments, and
fascia. Massage consists of a group of manual techniques that includes
applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, and/or causing movement of or to the body. While massage therapy is applied primarily with the hands, sometimes the forearms or elbows are also
used. The basic philosophy of massage therapy embraces the
concept of aiding the body’s ability to heal itself, and is aimed at
achieving or increasing health and well-being for the patient. The other goals of using massage therapy are to promote circulation, drainage, relaxation or stimulation, and resolving any muscle-related problems including stress or trigger points.
The body responds to massage in many ways and all are beneficial. It works on the central nervous system to create a calming relaxation effect which lowers stress. More blood and oxygen is brought into the muscles allowing them to remove waste products and bring in vital nutrients. The muscles can work more effectively without restrictions or adhesions thus the chances of injury can be decreased. There are many more benefits beyond the ones mentioned.
There are many different forms of massage therapy and generally a skilled therapist will be trained in multiple techniques. Each form of massage therapy generally has the same end results, but each uses different approaches and techniques to achieve them. This means that each different modality has its specific uses and advantages in certain situations. Most therapists are trained in multiple techniques allowing them to work with a wider caseload. Below is a short description of the more common forms of massage.
by Amanda Moretz Starr
Stretching before and after rides is a great way to not only keep the muscles loose, but also access for any potential tightness in the body.
Finding the right environment for the horse for their massage session is key! They need to be comfortable and feel safe. This pony decided for her that meant having her best friend nearby.
Sports massage therapy is a specific application of massage. It is the science and the art of applying massage and related techniques to maintain the health of any athlete and enhance their performance. While sports massage can be used immediately before or after an event, it is also very effective to use while at home. The concept of sports massage is based on the make up of an athlete. The three parts of athleticism consists of proprioception, flexibility, and coordination. Sports massage has been created to help maximize all of these components.
Myofascial massage is a technique in which sustained pressure is applied to the myofascial restrictions in the body. Fascia is
the seamless web of connective tissue that covers and connects all the muscles, organs, and skeletal structures. Because of the relationship of the fascia and the rest of the body structures, when an injury occurs to the muscle fibers, both the fibers and the fascia become short and tight. This can cause restrictions in movement, pain, and other signs. Myofascial therapy aims to correct these issues by releasing the restrictions in the injured fascia. By addressing any issues in the fascia, the therapist can more effectively remove restrictions in the muscles.
While there are many more modalities of massage therapy, the ones mentioned above are most commonly found in use with horses by most therapists. It is important to not that massage can be a vital gauge of how a horse is doing in its training regimen and overall health. Areas of soreness or concern can be pinpointed before an injury occurs saving the horse from potential time off from work. Massage also helps identify areas of tension or trigger points and relieves them, making the horse more flexible, able to perform more easily and less prone to injury. The use of massage can also be highly effective in the rehabilitation of a horse after an injury. Horses that are on stall rest will become stiff from lack of movement, and therefore a lot of times you will find muscle and fascial adhesions as a result. Horses that receive massage in the recovery phase of an injury can potentially decrease the time till they are back to full work. It is a common misconception that muscles will heal themselves on their own, but if not treated any restrictions will remain. These restrictions will over lead the body to adopt subtle methods of compensation which will ingrain the problem until treated appropriately.
A thorough massage therapist will give an owner homework to work on between sessions. This may include a series of stretches, riding exercises, or even teach some basic massage stokes to work on a certain area. This way owner’s can be a part of their horses care, and it helps to add a different level to the relationship with the horse. Most horses love massage, and they really do connect on an emotional level within a massage session. So it is a great bonus to owners to have a way beyond riding to bond with their horses.
There are many small intricate muscles in the poll area and head. Using gentle friction and pressure Amanda works to release these muscles.
The point of the hip is home to many muscle attachments. By working around this bony landmark using static pressure and friction Amanda can address many muscles at once.
Muscles surrounding the vertebrae are deep in the neck, but can easily become tight. Here Amanda is using hers and the horse's weight to help access these muscles and restore normal range of motion to the neck.
Accessing common tension areas for each type of riding discipline is important to a successful bodywork session. Here Amanda is evaluating the upper neck and poll area on Royal, who is a dressage horse.
Sports massage therapy is a specific application of massage. It is the science and the art of applying massage and related techniques to maintain the health of any athlete and enhance their performance. While sports massage can be used immediately before or after an event, it is also very effective to use while at home. The concept of sports massage is based on the make up of an athlete. The three parts of athleticism consists of proprioception, flexibility, and coordination. Sports massage has been created to help maximize all of these components.
Myofascial massage is a technique in which sustained pressure is applied to the myofascial restrictions in the body. Fascia is
the seamless web of connective tissue that covers and connects all the muscles, organs, and skeletal structures. Because of the relationship of the fascia and the rest of the body structures, when an injury occurs to the muscle fibers, both the fibers and the fascia become short and tight. This can cause restrictions in movement, pain, and other signs. Myofascial therapy aims to correct these issues by releasing the restrictions in the injured fascia. By addressing any issues in the fascia, the therapist can more effectively remove restrictions in the muscles.
While there are many more modalities of massage therapy, the ones mentioned above are most commonly found in use with horses by most therapists. It is important to not that massage can be a vital gauge of how a horse is doing in its training regimen and overall health. Areas of soreness or concern can be pinpointed before an injury occurs saving the horse from potential time off from work. Massage also helps identify areas of tension or trigger points and relieves them, making the horse more flexible, able to perform more easily and less prone to injury. The use of massage can also be highly effective in the rehabilitation of a horse after an injury. Horses that are on stall rest will become stiff from lack of movement, and therefore a lot of times you will find muscle and fascial adhesions as a result. Horses that receive massage in the recovery phase of an injury can potentially decrease the time till they are back to full work. It is a common misconception that muscles will heal themselves on their own, but if not treated any restrictions will remain. These restrictions will over lead the body to adopt subtle methods of compensation which will ingrain the problem until treated appropriately.
A thorough massage therapist will give an owner homework to work on between sessions. This may include a series of stretches, riding exercises, or even teach some basic massage stokes to work on a certain area. This way owner’s can be a part of their horses care, and it helps to add a different level to the relationship with the horse. Most horses love massage, and they really do connect on an emotional level within a massage session. So it is a great bonus to owners to have a way beyond riding to bond with their horses.
There are many small intricate muscles in the poll area and head. Using gentle friction and pressure Amanda works to release these muscles.
The point of the hip is home to many muscle attachments. By working around this bony landmark using static pressure and friction Amanda can address many muscles at once.
Muscles surrounding the vertebrae are deep in the neck, but can easily become tight. Here Amanda is using hers and the horse's weight to help access these muscles and restore normal range of motion to the neck.
Accessing common tension areas for each type of riding discipline is important to a successful bodywork session. Here Amanda is evaluating the upper neck and poll area on Royal, who is a dressage horse.
39
The effects of massage are cumulative and are a great addition to the regular routine of training and care for any horse. Having a massage therapist trained in equine massage working alongside your veterinarian, farrier, and other alternative therapy providers can be an excellent way to stay on top of your horse’s health. When these are all used together then your horse has the best chance of having a long and happy performance life with the least amount of injuries from work.
BASIC STROKES OF MASSAGE:
EFFLEURAGELong, gliding strokes using flat palms, fingers, thumbs, or forearms. PETRISSAGEKneading, wringing, or gentle squeezing to lift muscle away from body.
COMPRESSIONPushing muscles down toward bone with fingers, fists, or palms.
FRICTIONDeep circular movements with thumb or fingers deep into tissue.
TAPOTEMENTSeries of rhythmic strikes or blows using hands or fists.
VIBRATIONShaking, trembling, jostling, or rocking using palms or fingertips.
The foreleg is held onto the body by a sling of muscles, so if any of tight the foreleg can not move in a normal range of motion.
Using skin rolling, Amanda is addressing the fascia that covers the shoulder muscles and the foreleg.
Stretching is when a group of muscles are flexed or stretched to achieve elasticity and normal muscle tone.
ABOUT AMANDA
Amanda Starr LMT, CNMT, EM/MT, RVT is a graduate of ASHA's School of Massage Therapy and Mike Scott's School of Equine Massage/Muscle Therapy. Amanda is certified in Equine massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Sports massage, and Swedish massage. Over the last four years, Amanda has built a very successful Equine Massage practice in Tennessee and Georgia.
Before deciding to pursue her love of massage therapy, Amanda was a licensed veterinary technician for over 12 years. During this time Amanda was lucky enough to work with some of the best small animal and equine veterinarians on the east coast. It was during this time that Amanda developed a deep
appreciation of the need for total wellness, and a desire to help others be the healthiest they can be.....two-legged or four!
In her spare time Amanda spends time with her own horse, Saving Grace, and trains in the sport of Dressage. She is also happily married - she and her husband share the house with six cats and one dog. Never a dull moment!
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE:
WWW.AMANDASTARRBODYWORK.COM
OR JOIN FACEBOOK PAGE FOR FOR MORE NEWS AND UPDATES
COMPANY PROFILE
Business Name: Amanda Starr Bodywork
Travel Areas: Atlanta, North Georgia, East/Middle Tennessee
Services: Equine Integrated Massage, Pre/Post Event Massage, Human Integrated Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy
Contact: Amanda Moretz Starr, LMT, CNMT, EM/MT, RVT
Phone/Email: 404-645-4469, [email protected]
40
The effects of massage are cumulative and are a great addition to the regular routine of training and care for any horse. Having a massage therapist trained in equine massage working alongside your veterinarian, farrier, and other alternative therapy providers can be an excellent way to stay on top of your horse’s health. When these are all used together then your horse has the best chance of having a long and happy performance life with the least amount of injuries from work.
BASIC STROKES OF MASSAGE:
EFFLEURAGELong, gliding strokes using flat palms, fingers, thumbs, or forearms. PETRISSAGEKneading, wringing, or gentle squeezing to lift muscle away from body.
COMPRESSIONPushing muscles down toward bone with fingers, fists, or palms.
FRICTIONDeep circular movements with thumb or fingers deep into tissue.
TAPOTEMENTSeries of rhythmic strikes or blows using hands or fists.
VIBRATIONShaking, trembling, jostling, or rocking using palms or fingertips.
The foreleg is held onto the body by a sling of muscles, so if any of tight the foreleg can not move in a normal range of motion.
Using skin rolling, Amanda is addressing the fascia that covers the shoulder muscles and the foreleg.
Stretching is when a group of muscles are flexed or stretched to achieve elasticity and normal muscle tone.
ABOUT AMANDA
Amanda Starr LMT, CNMT, EM/MT, RVT is a graduate of ASHA's School of Massage Therapy and Mike Scott's School of Equine Massage/Muscle Therapy. Amanda is certified in Equine massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Sports massage, and Swedish massage. Over the last four years, Amanda has built a very successful Equine Massage practice in Tennessee and Georgia.
Before deciding to pursue her love of massage therapy, Amanda was a licensed veterinary technician for over 12 years. During this time Amanda was lucky enough to work with some of the best small animal and equine veterinarians on the east coast. It was during this time that Amanda developed a deep
appreciation of the need for total wellness, and a desire to help others be the healthiest they can be.....two-legged or four!
In her spare time Amanda spends time with her own horse, Saving Grace, and trains in the sport of Dressage. She is also happily married - she and her husband share the house with six cats and one dog. Never a dull moment!
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE:
WWW.AMANDASTARRBODYWORK.COM
OR JOIN FACEBOOK PAGE FOR FOR MORE NEWS AND UPDATES
COMPANY PROFILE
Business Name: Amanda Starr Bodywork
Travel Areas: Atlanta, North Georgia, East/Middle Tennessee
Services: Equine Integrated Massage, Pre/Post Event Massage, Human Integrated Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy
Contact: Amanda Moretz Starr, LMT, CNMT, EM/MT, RVT
Phone/Email: 404-645-4469, [email protected]
We love the t-shirts! What inspired you to develop the line?Facebook, actually! I had designed a poster I had been thinking about for a while—“Live Free & Jump XC”. Well, I posted it to my Facebook page, and before I knew it, the photo had been liked and shared hundreds of times! I knew I had something there, so I hurried to have t-shirts printed. I debuted the line at Chatt Hills in July...and the response was amazing! I’ve been having so much fun designing and selling the shirts since then.
I sell mostly through my online store, www.dapplebay.com/shop. I also vendor at large horse shows. Coming up, I will be at the Richard A.G. Watson clinic at Harmony Grove Farm February 23 & 24th, and then I will have a booth at Red Hills International Horse Trails March 8-10th. Dapplebay shirts are also available from our retail partner Top Rail Tack, and we hope to have our line in several more stores by the close of 2013.
Dapplebay, Inc. is a full service graphic design studio established by Leah Anderson in 2011. Dapplebay debuted a fresh new line of equestrian t-shirts in July of last year, and the business
this exciting, young company.
Lexie is wearing the Dressage Hoody, $42
We love the t-shirts! What inspired you to develop the line?Facebook, actually! I had designed a poster I had been thinking about for a while—“Live Free & Jump XC”. Well, I posted it to my Facebook page, and before I knew it, the photo had been liked and shared hundreds of times! I knew I had something there, so I hurried to have t-shirts printed. I debuted the line at Chatt Hills in July...and the response was amazing! I’ve been having so much fun designing and selling the shirts since then.
I sell mostly through my online store, www.dapplebay.com/shop. I also vendor at large horse shows. Coming up, I will be at the Richard A.G. Watson clinic at Harmony Grove Farm February 23 & 24th, and then I will have a booth at Red Hills International Horse Trails March 8-10th. Dapplebay shirts are also available from our retail partner Top Rail Tack, and we hope to have our line in several more stores by the close of 2013.
Dapplebay, Inc. is a full service graphic design studio established by Leah Anderson in 2011. Dapplebay debuted a fresh new line of equestrian t-shirts in July of last year, and the business
this exciting, young company.
Lexie is wearing the Dressage Hoody, $42
Can you share any details about any upcoming t-shirt designs? I can’t give away any secrets, but we will have a few awesome new eventing designs debuting at Red Hills! One is pony-themed...and the other will make eventers laugh out loud! We will also have a new dressage themed design, and a new hunter-jumper design coming out in Spring 2013. I want to add western designs to the line, also...but one thing at a time!
What other types of design work does Dapplebay produce?We specialize in both print and web design. Anything from a logo, an advertising campaign to a vehicle wrap...we’ve got you covered. We develop beautiful & functional websites using Wordpress, meaning they are easy for users to update. No outdated website content ever again! We also o�er full service hosting and website management.
Tell us a little bit about yourself... you’re a rider, right?I’ve ridden for most of my life...over 20 years now! I had a naughty pony as a kid, and went through pony club with an o�-the-track Thoroughbed mare with a mind of her own. Now, I have two OTTBs, Pie and Mulligan. Pie is my main riding horse, and we are currently competing in eventing. We are getting excited for a rewarding spring show season after working very hard the past few months! Mulligan is a rescue and a wonderful pasture buddy and friend to Pie—he was on his way nowhere good after a very successful career at the track. I feel lucky to be able to provide him with a safe place to call home.
Anything else we should know?
we have promotions and giveaways often!www.facebook.com/dapplebay
3 Days T-shirt, $28
Eventer T-shirt, $28ALL INQUIRIES: [email protected] BY RATHER BE RIDING PHOTOGRAPHY
DESIGN GALLERY
Can you share any details about any upcoming t-shirt designs? I can’t give away any secrets, but we will have a few awesome new eventing designs debuting at Red Hills! One is pony-themed...and the other will make eventers laugh out loud! We will also have a new dressage themed design, and a new hunter-jumper design coming out in Spring 2013. I want to add western designs to the line, also...but one thing at a time!
What other types of design work does Dapplebay produce?We specialize in both print and web design. Anything from a logo, an advertising campaign to a vehicle wrap...we’ve got you covered. We develop beautiful & functional websites using Wordpress, meaning they are easy for users to update. No outdated website content ever again! We also o�er full service hosting and website management.
Tell us a little bit about yourself... you’re a rider, right?I’ve ridden for most of my life...over 20 years now! I had a naughty pony as a kid, and went through pony club with an o�-the-track Thoroughbed mare with a mind of her own. Now, I have two OTTBs, Pie and Mulligan. Pie is my main riding horse, and we are currently competing in eventing. We are getting excited for a rewarding spring show season after working very hard the past few months! Mulligan is a rescue and a wonderful pasture buddy and friend to Pie—he was on his way nowhere good after a very successful career at the track. I feel lucky to be able to provide him with a safe place to call home.
Anything else we should know?
we have promotions and giveaways often!www.facebook.com/dapplebay
3 Days T-shirt, $28
Eventer T-shirt, $28ALL INQUIRIES: [email protected] BY RATHER BE RIDING PHOTOGRAPHY
DESIGN GALLERY
43
www.erinmichellewheeler.com | 678-986-8526
erin michellephotography
There are as many ideas about training horses as there are horse people. No matter which discipline is undertaken, though, all trainers develop a few basic philosophies about how best to approach the horse/human relationship. For Tatiana (Tanya) Kiselyova, this relationship is based on understanding and compassion. As a trainer, her philosophy takes shape in the form of positive reinforcement or clicker training.
As a child growing up in Russia, Tanya had little exposure to horses. She dreamed of horses, but there was not an opportunity to take up riding in a Moscow suburb, hours away from a nearest riding stable. It wasn’t until she moved to the United States in the mid 1990s to pursue a doctoral degree in Entomology that her passion for horses found a practical outlet when she started riding at 29.
Clicking with Horses
by Nora Morbeck and Tatiana Kiselyova
Tatiana Kiselyova
There are as many ideas about training horses as there are horse people. No matter which discipline is undertaken, though, all trainers develop a few basic philosophies about how best to approach the horse/human relationship. For Tatiana (Tanya) Kiselyova, this relationship is based on understanding and compassion. As a trainer, her philosophy takes shape in the form of positive reinforcement or clicker training.
As a child growing up in Russia, Tanya had little exposure to horses. She dreamed of horses, but there was not an opportunity to take up riding in a Moscow suburb, hours away from a nearest riding stable. It wasn’t until she moved to the United States in the mid 1990s to pursue a doctoral degree in Entomology that her passion for horses found a practical outlet when she started riding at 29.
Clicking with Horses
by Nora Morbeck and Tatiana Kiselyova
Tatiana Kiselyova
Visit her web site www.equinoxhorse.net Visit Karen Pryor at www.clickertraining.com/whatis to learn more about clicker training and Alexandra Kurland at www.theclickercenter.com for more about clicker training with horses.
“It was magic, and still is,” Tanya says. “Lightness, balance, fun, self-carriage, genuine friendship, all these diverse things that had been elusive in my work with horses, were now at my fingertips. The journey in clicker training is like an ongoing treasure hunt, and all the treasures are yours and your horse’s to keep.”
Tanya gives private and group lessons, demonstrations, and workshops.
Tanya’s philosophy on horses and training:
I believe that horses are sentient beings whose mental intelligence is greater than we realize and whose emotional intelligence exceeds our own. To me training is a horse-human spiritual endeavor whose physical expression is brought forth through the scientific method of clicker training.
Inspired by researchers of animal behavior like Konrad Lorenz and Karen Pryor, Tanya’s understanding of horses has risen from observation and empathy. “Observation led to more questions and studying,” she explains. “Empathy led to a desire to be able to communicate with horses in clearer and gentler ways.”
After receiving her Ph.D., she left science and started training horses full time. She apprenticed with trainer Ed Dabney, drawn to his gentler approach. Later, discovering the work of Alexandra Kurland, a pioneer of equine clicker training in the United States, Tanya turned her attention to the art and science of positive reinforcement training with horses.
Commonly referred to as “clicker training,” this method is based on asking for and
rewarding desired behavior. Only the asked-for behavior is acknowledged and rewarded. The tool, known as a clicker for its consistent “click” sound, marks the desired behavior, followed by a reward. The precise timing of the click ensures clear communication, and more complex behaviors are built in small, easily learned increments, without a need for corrections or punishment.
Using positive reinforcement and eliminating escalation of pressure first with her own horses, Tanya witnessed an amazing transformation. Not only did they learn with an amazing speed and unparalleled enthusiasm, but their whole personalities seemed to blossom. They also showed brilliance and beautiful carriage they had never displayed before. Within a short time, her relationship with them was transformed from an ongoing leadership dispute into an openhearted friendship where trust, generosity, and creativity thrived.
Visit her web site www.equinoxhorse.net Visit Karen Pryor at www.clickertraining.com/whatis to learn more about clicker training and Alexandra Kurland at www.theclickercenter.com for more about clicker training with horses.
“It was magic, and still is,” Tanya says. “Lightness, balance, fun, self-carriage, genuine friendship, all these diverse things that had been elusive in my work with horses, were now at my fingertips. The journey in clicker training is like an ongoing treasure hunt, and all the treasures are yours and your horse’s to keep.”
Tanya gives private and group lessons, demonstrations, and workshops.
Tanya’s philosophy on horses and training:
I believe that horses are sentient beings whose mental intelligence is greater than we realize and whose emotional intelligence exceeds our own. To me training is a horse-human spiritual endeavor whose physical expression is brought forth through the scientific method of clicker training.
Inspired by researchers of animal behavior like Konrad Lorenz and Karen Pryor, Tanya’s understanding of horses has risen from observation and empathy. “Observation led to more questions and studying,” she explains. “Empathy led to a desire to be able to communicate with horses in clearer and gentler ways.”
After receiving her Ph.D., she left science and started training horses full time. She apprenticed with trainer Ed Dabney, drawn to his gentler approach. Later, discovering the work of Alexandra Kurland, a pioneer of equine clicker training in the United States, Tanya turned her attention to the art and science of positive reinforcement training with horses.
Commonly referred to as “clicker training,” this method is based on asking for and
rewarding desired behavior. Only the asked-for behavior is acknowledged and rewarded. The tool, known as a clicker for its consistent “click” sound, marks the desired behavior, followed by a reward. The precise timing of the click ensures clear communication, and more complex behaviors are built in small, easily learned increments, without a need for corrections or punishment.
Using positive reinforcement and eliminating escalation of pressure first with her own horses, Tanya witnessed an amazing transformation. Not only did they learn with an amazing speed and unparalleled enthusiasm, but their whole personalities seemed to blossom. They also showed brilliance and beautiful carriage they had never displayed before. Within a short time, her relationship with them was transformed from an ongoing leadership dispute into an openhearted friendship where trust, generosity, and creativity thrived.
My love for horses began at an early age. My dad and I would sit beside each other and watch Bonanza on Sunday evenings. When we took car rides on Sunday afternoons, Dad would tell me that if we saw a pony on a dirt road he would stop and put it in the trunk for me. I would always be watching for that pony.
My dad died just before my thirteenth birthday. It was then my mom purchased my first horse, Tarzan for fifty dollars. He was on his way to a slaughter house, after many years as a trail horse in the north Georgia mountains. We saved him and he saved me. He was the best therapy for me and helped me through some very tough times. I only had Tarzan for a year, when financial circumstances forced us to give him up to another family. He lived out his years on lush green pastures.
My husband, Tom shares my love of horses, when we first met he was showing them. Over the years my love and knowledge of horses grew as did my desire to paint this beautiful animal. There was a time when our daughter was little that I didn't paint at all. When she became a teenager I had more time to pursue my passion.
I always practiced my craft even when I couldn't paint by sketching and drawing the horses I saw in the Quarter Horse Journal. I began focusing on my art in the late 90's, and found I took to it like a duck to water. I'm a self-taught artist and learn by studying the works of other artists, visiting galleries and art museums and by reading a variety of art books.
INSPIRED BY THE HORSEby Bonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
Water color of Mare Katie Bug
My love for horses began at an early age. My dad and I would sit beside each other and watch Bonanza on Sunday evenings. When we took car rides on Sunday afternoons, Dad would tell me that if we saw a pony on a dirt road he would stop and put it in the trunk for me. I would always be watching for that pony.
My dad died just before my thirteenth birthday. It was then my mom purchased my first horse, Tarzan for fifty dollars. He was on his way to a slaughter house, after many years as a trail horse in the north Georgia mountains. We saved him and he saved me. He was the best therapy for me and helped me through some very tough times. I only had Tarzan for a year, when financial circumstances forced us to give him up to another family. He lived out his years on lush green pastures.
My husband, Tom shares my love of horses, when we first met he was showing them. Over the years my love and knowledge of horses grew as did my desire to paint this beautiful animal. There was a time when our daughter was little that I didn't paint at all. When she became a teenager I had more time to pursue my passion.
I always practiced my craft even when I couldn't paint by sketching and drawing the horses I saw in the Quarter Horse Journal. I began focusing on my art in the late 90's, and found I took to it like a duck to water. I'm a self-taught artist and learn by studying the works of other artists, visiting galleries and art museums and by reading a variety of art books.
INSPIRED BY THE HORSEby Bonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
Water color of Mare Katie Bug
The horse is my favorite subject. I often go out to study the horses on our farm. I love to run my hands over their bodies and feel their muscles and the softness of their coats. I find myself studying the way the light reflects on their coats, the shadows cast and the highlights. A favorite sight is to see them up in the wood with the light filtering through the trees and casting shadows and the light creating a glow on their tails and manes.
I think all horses are beautiful and I enjoy watching all disciplines, from the shaggy pony to the well groomed steed. I find my inspiration in their physical beauty, their power, the graceful way they move, and the shine of their coats.
When someone looks at my paintings, I hope they see the beauty of this magnificent animal.
As a member of several artist groups, I have the opportunity to show in both local open shows and juried shows. I love to paint for myself and I enjoy painting commission pieces for others. I hope I'm riding and painting our friend the horse for many years to come.
Happy Trails,Bonnie McCarty Art by Bonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
www.artbybonniemccarty.wix.com/art
The horse is my favorite subject. I often go out to study the horses on our farm. I love to run my hands over their bodies and feel their muscles and the softness of their coats. I find myself studying the way the light reflects on their coats, the shadows cast and the highlights. A favorite sight is to see them up in the wood with the light filtering through the trees and casting shadows and the light creating a glow on their tails and manes.
I think all horses are beautiful and I enjoy watching all disciplines, from the shaggy pony to the well groomed steed. I find my inspiration in their physical beauty, their power, the graceful way they move, and the shine of their coats.
When someone looks at my paintings, I hope they see the beauty of this magnificent animal.
As a member of several artist groups, I have the opportunity to show in both local open shows and juried shows. I love to paint for myself and I enjoy painting commission pieces for others. I hope I'm riding and painting our friend the horse for many years to come.
Happy Trails,Bonnie McCarty Art by Bonnie McCarty-Equine Artist
www.artbybonniemccarty.wix.com/art
“Monkey On My Back “ Oil Painting
“Shadow Horse”18x24 oil painting
“Plowing before the storm”16”x20” Oil on canvas.
“Texas”
16”x20” Oil on canvas.
16”x20” Oil on canvas.
Pastel of Texas and Katie Bug
WIER CUTTING HORSES
BILLY WIER Phone: (678)410-‐1848 Email: wiercu:[email protected] Located in Homer, Ga. 10 miles from Tanger Outlets in Commerce
TRAINING LESSONS SALES SHOWING
WIER CUTTING HORSES
BILLY WIER Phone: (678)410-‐1848 Email: wiercu:[email protected] Located in Homer, Ga. 10 miles from Tanger Outlets in Commerce
TRAINING LESSONS SALES SHOWING
March 2013 S M T W T F S
EVENT CALENDAR BY
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21
28 29 30 31
22 23 24 25 26 27
DRESSAGE ACTIVITIES EVENTING DRIVING HUNTERJUMPER
CLINICS WESTERN POLO
CLICK ON THE SQUARE TO VIEW INFORMATION
March 2013 S M T W T F S
EVENT CALENDAR BY
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21
28 29 30 31
22 23 24 25 26 27
DRESSAGE ACTIVITIES EVENTING DRIVING HUNTERJUMPER
CLINICS WESTERN POLO
CLICK ON THE SQUARE TO VIEW INFORMATION
A Grand Dam-Welli’s Lady Victory
We often read of the incredible strength and talent of horses in the show ring and our awe and respect for them is certainly deserved. But breeders especially know of the stars who reside behind the scenes. The brood mares who carry, give birth to, and nurture those champions for the ring and our own pastures – the Grand Dams. This is a story – a tribute really - to one of those Grand Dams. Welli’s Lady Victory – affectionately known as Vicar - at age 24 had given birth to 20 foals. The arrival of the 20th foal was expected to go as smoothly as the previous 19. The only difference was that she was a week overdue. She’d never been overdue. In fact her due date was so predictable even a little lateness was a concern. Was there a problem, was her age catching up to her? These worries swirled in the back of her owners’ minds, Dawn and Len, as they carried on the work of their breeding operation, Whispering Hills Friesians, in the spring of 2010. (Whispering Hills Friesians is near Athabasca, Alberta, Canada. A week beyond Vicar’s due date Dawn and Len were desperately trying to save another brood mare. The Thoroughbred mare Kaylas Star. Kayla was a gift from Dawn's son; had a sweetheart personality and had previously produced 4 beautiful foals by Donius W. But this time Kayla wasn’t doing well and, sadly, died while giving birth to a healthy Friesian/TB cross filly.
Just as Dawn realized the mare would not survive and her mind raced to thoughts of colostrum, nurse
mares, and the need to hurry and make these arrangements she was told that Vicar had just given birth to her foal – without assistance.
It is rare that 2 mares foal at exactly the same time at Whispering Hills Friesians. It seemed like Vicar waited for this exact time to foal for a reason. While Dawn attended to Vicar and her new colt (later to be named Germanicus which means brother) Len and a neighbour were slowly bringing a very wobbly filly to the foaling paddock, not sure what to do.
Vicar was standing beside her colt as the afterbirth was expelled from her body. Dawn thoroughly rubbed the newly orphaned filly in the afterbirth and gently brought her to Vicar's head.
Vicar was still in her post birth relaxed mental state and it took her a moment to glance down. When she did, the double take was worthy of a slapstick routine. Her eyes got big as she looked at this foal on the left, then back to her own foal on the right, back to the left and so on. Her facial expression said it all, "What the heck, when did THAT happen?". But would she accept this little orphan?
By Deb Miskiw [email protected]
A Grand Dam-Welli’s Lady Victory
We often read of the incredible strength and talent of horses in the show ring and our awe and respect for them is certainly deserved. But breeders especially know of the stars who reside behind the scenes. The brood mares who carry, give birth to, and nurture those champions for the ring and our own pastures – the Grand Dams. This is a story – a tribute really - to one of those Grand Dams. Welli’s Lady Victory – affectionately known as Vicar - at age 24 had given birth to 20 foals. The arrival of the 20th foal was expected to go as smoothly as the previous 19. The only difference was that she was a week overdue. She’d never been overdue. In fact her due date was so predictable even a little lateness was a concern. Was there a problem, was her age catching up to her? These worries swirled in the back of her owners’ minds, Dawn and Len, as they carried on the work of their breeding operation, Whispering Hills Friesians, in the spring of 2010. (Whispering Hills Friesians is near Athabasca, Alberta, Canada. A week beyond Vicar’s due date Dawn and Len were desperately trying to save another brood mare. The Thoroughbred mare Kaylas Star. Kayla was a gift from Dawn's son; had a sweetheart personality and had previously produced 4 beautiful foals by Donius W. But this time Kayla wasn’t doing well and, sadly, died while giving birth to a healthy Friesian/TB cross filly.
Just as Dawn realized the mare would not survive and her mind raced to thoughts of colostrum, nurse
mares, and the need to hurry and make these arrangements she was told that Vicar had just given birth to her foal – without assistance.
It is rare that 2 mares foal at exactly the same time at Whispering Hills Friesians. It seemed like Vicar waited for this exact time to foal for a reason. While Dawn attended to Vicar and her new colt (later to be named Germanicus which means brother) Len and a neighbour were slowly bringing a very wobbly filly to the foaling paddock, not sure what to do.
Vicar was standing beside her colt as the afterbirth was expelled from her body. Dawn thoroughly rubbed the newly orphaned filly in the afterbirth and gently brought her to Vicar's head.
Vicar was still in her post birth relaxed mental state and it took her a moment to glance down. When she did, the double take was worthy of a slapstick routine. Her eyes got big as she looked at this foal on the left, then back to her own foal on the right, back to the left and so on. Her facial expression said it all, "What the heck, when did THAT happen?". But would she accept this little orphan?
By Deb Miskiw [email protected]
Vicar stretched her neck down to the right gently sniffing and confirming her colt’s familiar scent. Then she stretched her neck over to the orphan as Dawn and Len nervously watched, ready to leap to the foal’s rescue if necessary. But there was no need. Vicar gently nuzzled the little filly from head to toe and without hesitation accepted that, “Yes, she’d had ‘twins’. Imagine that”.
She raised her head, licked her lips and showed no distress or worry about this second foal. Her surprised alarm at finding two foals a few minutes earlier was gone. She immediately accepted her "twins". "Oh well" her demeanour seemed to say, "that was easy!".
And throughout the spring and summer she demonstrated that, for her – a Grand Dam – it was. Her colt, Germanicus is doing well, and so is, his "twin" sister, Godiva which means gift.
Orphan Foals ChallengesIf you have the unfortunate experience of dealing with an orphan foal it's very important to try and have the foal bonded to a nurse mare who will nurture, feed and socialize the foal. www.cyberfoal.com is a great web site for all breeders to have bookmarked. It is a place to post listings of mares needed, mares available and colostrum available. It is important for all breeders to collect and freeze colostrum to have on hand in case of emergencies.
Donius W.
Welli's Lady Victory ("Vicar") is a grand old Canadian Warmblood mare who was foaled in 1986. Her strawberry roan colouring comes from her Oldenburg sire Wellington. She has produced a foal every year for 19 years, took one year off and then gave us her 20th and last foal Germanicus. Vicar came into Dawn's life at 2 days old, she was purchased with her dam at an auction sale. At 3 years old Vicar attended Old's College with Dawn and taught Dawn many valuable lessons including how to land properly after being dumped.
www.WhisperingHillsFriesians.com
Vicar’s many son’s and daughters:Winston - by Wermitzel (Trakehner)Frost n Fire - by Furioso (Oldenburg)Falon - by Furioso (pony club mount, competing in eventing)Furella - by FuriosoGamblerus - Geronimo (Hanoverian) Windsor - by Widukind (Hanoverian) He has now assumed a new role as a teacher in the Facilitated Equine Experiential Program in helping people heal. He is my greatest leader and teacher in this field. He is healthy, well and vibrant! you can also visit www.fieldsofwisdom.com to see the wonderful work he now does as a retired dressage horse.
Foals by Whispering Hill’s resident Friesian stallion, DoniusDanika Donovan (competed in the World Equestrian games in a 4 in hand team for Mike Mclennan of Texas)Daria Wellington Braunsen Elfe (competes in dressage)Grayson (competes in dressage)Lincoln Novella (for sale)Payton Tara Cierra Wynter Germanicus
Friesian Stallion Donius W - In his 50 Day Stallion Performance Test (1993 approved Friesian Stallion) Donius received top marks for character, ability to learn and work and a rare 9 for his exceptional walk. Donius is a proven sire of several champion sport horses including Windsong (FSHR Horse of the year in 05-06) and Guinness (USDF Gold award).
With the addition of 3 star mares to our breeding herd, Donius has proven himself again with an outstanding record of producing quality foals including FSH Grand and Reserve champions Wagner von Donius and Yonee HRF as well as several 2nd premium foals. For champion quality foals with superior dressage movement, superb temperament, sensible confidence and remarkable athletic abilities Donius offspring are an excellent choice for amateurs and professionals alike.
In appreciation and consideration of the extra effort she gave to her own and the orphan foal, Vicar wasn’t bred last year and is officially retired. Instead, she had an easy winter with her buddies. But I have a feeling that great mother that she is a little later this spring, she’ll be wondering what the heck, where’s MY baby!
You can visit the breeder’s web site to view their stallion, Donius W, brood mares, and offspring at www.WhisperingHillsFriesians.com
Godiva
GermanicusGermanicus
Vicar stretched her neck down to the right gently sniffing and confirming her colt’s familiar scent. Then she stretched her neck over to the orphan as Dawn and Len nervously watched, ready to leap to the foal’s rescue if necessary. But there was no need. Vicar gently nuzzled the little filly from head to toe and without hesitation accepted that, “Yes, she’d had ‘twins’. Imagine that”.
She raised her head, licked her lips and showed no distress or worry about this second foal. Her surprised alarm at finding two foals a few minutes earlier was gone. She immediately accepted her "twins". "Oh well" her demeanour seemed to say, "that was easy!".
And throughout the spring and summer she demonstrated that, for her – a Grand Dam – it was. Her colt, Germanicus is doing well, and so is, his "twin" sister, Godiva which means gift.
Orphan Foals ChallengesIf you have the unfortunate experience of dealing with an orphan foal it's very important to try and have the foal bonded to a nurse mare who will nurture, feed and socialize the foal. www.cyberfoal.com is a great web site for all breeders to have bookmarked. It is a place to post listings of mares needed, mares available and colostrum available. It is important for all breeders to collect and freeze colostrum to have on hand in case of emergencies.
Donius W.
Welli's Lady Victory ("Vicar") is a grand old Canadian Warmblood mare who was foaled in 1986. Her strawberry roan colouring comes from her Oldenburg sire Wellington. She has produced a foal every year for 19 years, took one year off and then gave us her 20th and last foal Germanicus. Vicar came into Dawn's life at 2 days old, she was purchased with her dam at an auction sale. At 3 years old Vicar attended Old's College with Dawn and taught Dawn many valuable lessons including how to land properly after being dumped.
www.WhisperingHillsFriesians.com
Vicar’s many son’s and daughters:Winston - by Wermitzel (Trakehner)Frost n Fire - by Furioso (Oldenburg)Falon - by Furioso (pony club mount, competing in eventing)Furella - by FuriosoGamblerus - Geronimo (Hanoverian) Windsor - by Widukind (Hanoverian) He has now assumed a new role as a teacher in the Facilitated Equine Experiential Program in helping people heal. He is my greatest leader and teacher in this field. He is healthy, well and vibrant! you can also visit www.fieldsofwisdom.com to see the wonderful work he now does as a retired dressage horse.
Foals by Whispering Hill’s resident Friesian stallion, DoniusDanika Donovan (competed in the World Equestrian games in a 4 in hand team for Mike Mclennan of Texas)Daria Wellington Braunsen Elfe (competes in dressage)Grayson (competes in dressage)Lincoln Novella (for sale)Payton Tara Cierra Wynter Germanicus
Friesian Stallion Donius W - In his 50 Day Stallion Performance Test (1993 approved Friesian Stallion) Donius received top marks for character, ability to learn and work and a rare 9 for his exceptional walk. Donius is a proven sire of several champion sport horses including Windsong (FSHR Horse of the year in 05-06) and Guinness (USDF Gold award).
With the addition of 3 star mares to our breeding herd, Donius has proven himself again with an outstanding record of producing quality foals including FSH Grand and Reserve champions Wagner von Donius and Yonee HRF as well as several 2nd premium foals. For champion quality foals with superior dressage movement, superb temperament, sensible confidence and remarkable athletic abilities Donius offspring are an excellent choice for amateurs and professionals alike.
In appreciation and consideration of the extra effort she gave to her own and the orphan foal, Vicar wasn’t bred last year and is officially retired. Instead, she had an easy winter with her buddies. But I have a feeling that great mother that she is a little later this spring, she’ll be wondering what the heck, where’s MY baby!
You can visit the breeder’s web site to view their stallion, Donius W, brood mares, and offspring at www.WhisperingHillsFriesians.com
Godiva
GermanicusGermanicus
e- m
a g a z i n
e
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