2025 February's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

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Endurance: Rider’s Mindset, Packing After Show and Green beans for February 11, 2025

by Horse Radio Network | Feb 11, 2025 | Horses in the Morning

Joanna Ziettero joins us to talk about the joys of packing up at the end of a show. Erin Grogan speaks about the “That Girl HRN Auditor Team” and “Green Bean Endurance” for 2025 and Kristen from The Distance Depot explains hackamores. Listen in…

Listen:
https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2025/02/endurance-riders-mindset-packing-after-show-and-green-beans-for-february-11-2025/

Michigan's Shore to Shore returns for one year only in summer 2025

ShoreToShoreRide.com

Don't miss it! - 250 miles (with options) - July 27 to August 2, 2025

Michigan’s Shore to Shore Distance ride is a historic ride beginning on the east side and traveling across the state to the west side, from Oscoda, MI to Empire, MI. Riders and their horses will be able to dip their ‘hoof’ into Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.

40 years after the first ride in 1985-2018, the ride is being resurrected for one year only in 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to ride it, mark your calendars!

Rhoda Ritter was an endurance rider and had the passion to create and manage a Michigan Shore to Shore 250 Mile race in 1985. The ride was a 5-day 50-mile ride totaling 250 miles held on the Shore to Shore Trail.

Previous ride managers Wayne Gastfield and Bruce Birr kept the ride going until 2018.

40 years after the very first ride, it’s coming back for one year only during the last week of July, 2025.

Dr. Rae Mayer, D.V.M (head vet) and Bruce Birr (timer) will be assuming their roles just like they have done since 1985.

For information on the ride, see:
https://shoretoshoreride.com/

2025 AERC National Championship cancelled

AERC.org

February 11 2025

In light of the cancellation of the 2025 AERC National Championship ride, that was to be held at the Biltmore Estate, the National Championship Committee recommended canceling the National Championship for the 2025 ride season. While some ride managers showed interest in hosting it this year, the Committee determined it was unfair to those unaware of the opportunity, and that the short timeframe would not allow sufficient preparation for a true National Championship ride. The Board unanimously agreed.

Going forward, the plan is to solicit ride managers on the eastern side of the US for the 2026 event. The Committee will present results by mid-summer, providing ample time for promotion and planning for the 2026 event.

Endurance breeder Dr Tom Sayvetz wins national award

January 28 2025
By Holly Corcoran

The endurance community is proudly celebrating Dr. Tom Sayvetz of Asgard Arabians, who was honored with The Ellen Scripps Davis Memorial Breeder’s Award at the USEF Pegasus Award ceremony on Thursday, January 23rd, in Lexington, KY. Dr. Sayvetz has devoted nearly 50 years to breeding award-winning Arabian horses from the finest Russian blended with French and Crabbet bloodlines. Together with his late wife, Halldis (Holly), who passed away in 2021, he poured passion and dedication into every breeding, foal crop, and success achieved by their horses.

During his heartfelt acceptance speech, Dr. Sayvetz reflected on the significance of their Norse ship logo, saying, “The Asgard ship has finally landed and discovered our New World … I’m sure somewhere in Valhalla my Holly (Halldis) is beaming with joy and fulfillment.”

Asgard Arabians are exclusively sport-bred, exemplifying exceptional athleticism proven by their accomplishments in AERC and FEI competitions. Under Dr. Sayvetz’s leadership, Asgard Arabians has bred 400 registered Arabian horses, of which 147 are AERC-registered and 45 are FEI-passported athletes. In FEI competitions, Asgard Arabians have competed 17,680 miles, achieving 202 Top Ten finishes and 42 first-place wins. In AERC events, their horses have successfully completed 120,470 miles, earning 1,329 Top Ten completions, 187 Best Condition awards, and 158 first-place finishes. Dr. Tom and Holly Sayvetz also supported the endurance community by donating 25 raffle horses to the Old Dominion Equestrian Endurance Organization, which hosts the Beast of the East OD 100-mile ride. Their horses have gained recognition not only across the U.S. but internationally as well, with many sold worldwide to enhance other breeding and competition programs. || This award represents a remarkable legacy and an extraordinary contribution to endurance, highlighting the achievement by excelling among many other breeds and disciplines. The entire endurance community joins in celebrating this milestone recognition, which honors both the Asgard Arabians’ achievements and Dr. Sayvetz’s unwavering commitment to the sport.

Entries now open for the 2025 Tevis Cup

Teviscup.org

It’s never too late to plan early! Entries are now open for the 69th running of the Tevis Cup, which will be held on July 12, 2025.

Traditional Entry: $500  ($600 on and after June 29, 2025), Signature Entry: $1600

To qualify to enter the Western States Trail Ride, Riders (not the equine) must, at the time of application, meet one of the two qualifications below. The equine must be a minimum of 72 months (6 years) old at the time of the ride. Mares in foal and/or lactating are not allowed to enter the Ride.

1. I have previously completed the Western States Trail Ride. OR 2. I have completed a total of 300 miles of rides sanctioned by WSTF, AERC, NATRC, and/or a national/international equivalent. All rides were 35 miles/day or more in length. The 300 miles are cumulative lifetime.

Rules governing the WSTF differ in some respects from those of other AERC sanctioned rides. The WSTF Rules will be applied and adhered to before, during and after the Ride.

Receipt of a completed entry by the WSTF does not guarantee acceptance to the ride.

When the limit of 210 participants has been reached, further entries will be placed on a waiting list. Ten additional entries in the Ride List are discretionary and are generally accorded to foreign riders.

Applications by junior riders who are over 12 and under 18 on ride day will only be considered if accompanied by the entry of an adult rider (21 years or older) as sponsor.

All entries must be completed online. Link to the entry form is here: https://teviscup.org/about-the-ride/entering-the-ride/

Vicki Jayne Rutter Passes

Legacy.com

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 22, 2025.

Vicki passed away in Patagonia, AZ on January 4, 2025 at the age of 68.

Vicki was born in Spokane, WA to parents Louie and Vivian Dragnich and lived in Republic, WA where she developed a life-long passion for riding horses and caring for animals. She shared her childhood with her brothers Larry, Terry, and Nick. After graduating high school, she moved to Spokane, WA and started working for James S. Black, then as a CPA for McDirmid, Mikkelsen & Secrest.

Vicki's passion in life was all about the horses. In 1983, she began Endurance riding and was a member of the American Endurance Ride Conference, competing and volunteering for the organization. She competed in 50 and 100 mile rides, accumulating almost 20,000 total miles in her 23 years of competition.

To add to her active and hard-working life of horses and accounting, in 1984 she married Stephen Rutter, M.D. They remained in Spokane until 1994, when they retired and moved to warmer weather in Patagonia, AZ, where they built a small ranch where Vicki could spend even more time with her beloved horses. Steve became active in Endurance competitions as well and volunteered at the vet check stations.

After retiring her spurs and saddles from Endurance competition, Vicki's love and dedication to animals continued as she would adopt and foster dozens of horses, dogs and cats.

Vicki is preceded in death by her mother and father, and her brother Terry (Melinda, living). Vicki is survived in death by her husband Steve, brothers Nick and Larry (Lori), and stepson Bret (Lisa), along with numerous nieces, nephews and dear cousins. Vicki is fondly remembered by the many valued friends, those old and new. Vicki's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and the dedication she maintained her entire life, for the care of animals.

Memorial donations can be made in Vicki's name to to Equine Voices, P.O. Box 1685, Green Valley, AZ 85622 or at www.equinevoices.org

Safe From the Flames: LA Horses Rescued

Horse-canada.com - Full Article

The California community has pitched in for the animals with money donations, feed, supplies and volunteers on the ground.

By: Kim Izzo | January 14, 2025

The images are harrowing and horrific, as homes, automobiles, churches and businesses are reduced to ash and rubble due to the apocalyptic fires that continue to destroy acres and lives in Los Angeles County, California. As thousands fled last week due to mandatory evacuations, horses, donkeys and other large animals had to be rescued.

One of the areas hardest hit by the Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, is Altadena in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s an area known for its horse community. “People have horses in their backyards in these neighborhoods,” Leigh Anne Claywell, general manager of the Los Angeles Equestrian Center (LAEC) told Reuters. “It’s been a horsey area for a long time. This is kind of where the Hollywood Western was born, because of all the cowboys and the ranches that used to be in this area...”

Read more here:
https://horse-canada.com/horse-news/safe-from-the-flames-la-horses-rescued/?vgo_ee=EZN%2BIp8gdDWlb78K45VFKFNqdxoByaE1P811%2BsnXOZPYhz7K3LLP%3AvOpbZwyA%2B0bPk%2FWqEQ%2F1QBQ%2F%2BbKe5lep

Register now for the 2025 AERC Convention in Sparks, Nevada

AERC.org

March 7 & 8, 2025 • Nugget Casino Resort • Sparks, Nevada

Back to the Reno area for a member-favorite location — the Nugget is truly an all-in-one resort with multiple restaurants, a fitness center and pool and arcade. Best of all: free parking and a free airport shuttle!

But of course the convention happenings will be the highlight. We’re thrilled to have a terrific lineup of speakers, including Harold Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, of the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, presenting on both days.

And, of course, the must-haves that make convention so worthwhile (and fun): the regional awards ceremony on Friday evening, followed by the Friday night dance, and the convention culminates with the don’t miss national awards banquet on Saturday. And how can we forget to mention the fabulous trade show, with shopping galore geared just for you. You can also buy (and sell) at the tack swap, and try your luck at the AERC raffle!

We hope you will join in the fun on March 7 & 8, 2025, at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, Nevada.

Sign up by February 25 to receive the lowest seminar prices and to reserve your banquet tickets. Reserve your hotel room by February 16 to receive the AERC group discount. Call to reserve: 800-648-1177 (mention GAERC25/nonsmoking room for lowest rates) or make your reservation online. See AERC.org/Convention for more information about hotel dates and rates (ranges from @ $112-$150 including fees and taxes).

Seminar Presentations Friday

• Getting to the Next Level - Erin McChesney
• What You Should Know About Equine Skin Diseases - Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
• Your Equine and Insurance - Diane Lesher, President, Equisure, Inc.
• Getting to YOUR Finish Line: Set Yourself Up for a Successful Season - Tami Rougeau & Mollie Krumlaw-Smith

Seminar Presentations Saturday

• What to Expect from a Ride: Ride Management, Trails, Vets, Personal Responsibility - Tami Rougeau & Mollie Krumlaw-Smith
• All About Cushing’s Disease - Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
• What to Watch for After the Ride - Robert Marshall, DVM, & Nick Kohut, DVM
• The Tevis Ride – Panel Discussion - A presentation by members of the Western States Trails Foundation

See more and register here:
https://aerc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025ConventionFlyer.pdf

US Equestrian Announces 2024 USEF Endurance Award Winners

 by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Jan 14, 2025, 11:00 AM

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian proudly congratulates the recipients of the 2024 USEF Endurance Year-End Awards. New to 2024, these awards celebrate their inaugural season, recognizing the exceptional achievements of our endurance athletes and horses.  For detailed descriptions of the 2025 awards program, click here. 

Top Ten National-Ranked Senior Athletes 
Awarded to the top senior athletes on the national athlete ranking list 

1. Alex Shampoe: Maggie Price Endurance Excellence Award recipient for being the top nationally ranked Senior Rider. 
2. Cheryl Van Deusen 
3. Nathalie Weemaels 
4. Kelsey Russell 
5. Holly Corcoran 
6. Margaret Sleeper 
7. Jessica Dicamillo 
8. Heather Davis 
9. Anastassia Savini 
10. Heidi Perreault 

Top National-Ranked Junior/Young Rider Athletes  
Awarded to the top Junior/Young Riders on the national athlete ranking list 

   1. Annamaria Clarke: Brunjes Junior/Young Rider Endurance Trophy recipient for being the top nationally ranked Junior/Young Rider. 
   2. Uma Kraskin 
   3. Avery Betz-Conway 
   4. Ansley Conway 
   5. Meghan Wert 
   6. Aubrey Muthard 
   7. Vanessa Erickson 
   8. Kylie Wert 
   8. Tierney Beloberk 
   10. Lila Reeder 

Click here to view the full Athlete of the Year Ranking List 
 

©Leslie Potter/US Equestrian

Endurance Athlete of the Year Award – Alex Shampoe 
Awarded to the rider ranked first on the annual national athlete ranking list 

Alex Shampoe had an incredible 2024 USEF Endurance competition year (December 1 – November 30). Her year started off strong with a win in the CEI2* 120km at Goethe Gallivant in Dunnellon Fla, aboard AM Lord Lewis UA with a time of 10:02:41. Alex continued her successes with wins in the CEI3* 160km at Rocky Road with Southern Justice in Spearman, Texas, and Ride in the Pines in Cheraw, S.C. and the USA Northeast Team Challenge Championship in Elkton, Md on Promissin Gold. Her fastest time in the 160km came at the end of the season with a 11:29:30, on Southern Justice at the Broxton Bridge: Fall Rides in Ehrhardt, S.C. 

 

Endurance Horse of the Year Award – Juno Im Gold 
Awarded to the owner of the horse ranked first on the annual national horse ranking list. 

Juno Im Gold (Flash Golden x LM Parys) is a 10-year-old half-Arabian gelding, owned by Valarie Kanavy. 2024 was an incredibly successful competition year for Juno Im Gold and his rider, Kelsey Russell. Together, the duo won top placings in the CEI3* 160km at Williston and Dunnellon, Fla as well as Cimarron, NM. Their highest accomplishment of the year was achieving a completion together at the 2024 FEI Endurance World Championship in Monpazier, FRA.  
 

©Maria Phillips Photography

Endurance Best Condition Season Award – Promissin Gold 
Awarded to the owner of the horse ranked first on the annual national best condition standings 

Promissin Gold (ZT Raashaqa x Hals Metourmaline) is a 12-year-old Arabian mare, owned by Valarie Kanavy. In the 2024 competition year, Promissin Gold along with her rider, Alex Shampoe proved an extremely successful duo. Most notably, the duo won both the CEI3* 160km at Ride in the Pines in Cheraw, S.C., and the CEI3* 160km at the USA Northeast Team Challenge Championship in Elkton, Md. 
 

 

 

A True Gem: Belesema Sapphire Becomes Endurance Horse Breyer Model

Breyerhorses.com

January 3 2025

Meet Belesema Sapphire!

Meg Sleeper met Belesema Sapphire, a chestnut Arabian mare, when the horse’s previous owner could no longer keep her. After just a few months of training and getting to know the sensitive mare, Meg discovered she was talented but very herd-bound and lacked confidence in herself and her rider, which caused her to act out.

Meg decided that it would be best if Sapphire was only ridden by one person so they could build trust between each other. They went to work and trained solo on the trails, rarely joining group rides. These many hours helped fortify the bond between Sapphire and Meg, and they became a true team. Now 13 years old, Sapphire is not only is a force to be reckoned with on the trails, but her abilities in endurance competitions have made her a star! Her accomplishments include 1st place for the American Endurance Ride Conference's National 100 Mile Award and National Best Condition Award, and she was the 2023 Arabian Horse Association 100 Mile Award recipient.

Endurance riding tests the horse’s ability to cover long distances over varying terrain, altitude, and weather. It not only tests the horse’s fitness and stamina, but the connection and trust between horse and rider.

For this summer’s BreyerFest, Belesema Sapphire's portrait model is painted in a glowing chestnut on the Arabian Mare mold (#706), sculpted by Kathleen Moody. Her model will be available as a part of this year’s Limited Edition lineup which available to all ticket holders whether you’re joining us in-person or online! VIP ticket buyers will have the ability to pre-select and pre-purchase model at the time of their ticket purchase, guaranteeing their selection.

Megs sums up what working with Sapphire means to her best by saying, “I feel honored that she considers me worthy... when you are both enjoying – indeed loving – the experience, there is nothing you can’t accomplish.” Sapphire and Meg’s trust and bond with each other is truly something to celebrate!

2024 December's Horse in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance: Overcoming Injuries & Embracing Growth for December 10, 2024

by Horse Radio Network | Dec 10, 2024 | Horses in the Morning

Lynn Beazley joins us to tell us how recovering from an injury as a horseback rider over 60 is both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Plus, Karen chats about the importance of stretching before a ride and Kristen at Distance Depot Distance Depot tells us about the new True Grit Saddle Packs. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/12/endurance-overcoming-injuries-embracing-growth-for-december-10-2024-horses-in-the-morning/

2024 November's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance: Tom Quilty Gold Cup, The Long Ride and – HORSES IN THE MORNING

by Ashley Winch | Nov 12, 2024

Ashley Wingert tells us all about her adventure riding in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, Australia’s premiere 100 mile ride. Dr. Lucian Spataro Jr., on his book “The Long Ride”. It is a beautiful chronology of a place in time when three horses and a team of people were doing the “right thing” against very long odds; their perseverance is even more inspiring today, twenty years later. In Karen’s training tip she talks about negative splits, riding the first half of an endurance ride slower than the second. Listen in…

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/11/endurance-tom-quilty-gold-cup-the-long-ride-and/

US Equestrian Congratulates Active FEI Endurance Elite Athletes

USEF.org

by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Dec 16, 2024, 3:00 PM

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian congratulates select US Endurance athletes on their FEI Endurance Elite Athletes status. Special recognition is extended to the athletes that have achieved the FEI Endurance Elite Athlete status during 2024.

An Elite Endurance Athlete is defined as someone who, in their lifetime of competing within FEI Endurance, has reached the following milestones for 1*/2*/3* level of competition.

Bronze Level - 10 completions within the applicable * level

Silver Level - 20 completions within the applicable * level

Gold Level is - 30 completions within the applicable * level

The following athletes have been awarded the FEI Endurance Elite Athlete status.

Senior Athletes

Karen Binns-Dicamillo - 2* & 3* Bronze

Melody Blittersdorf - 1*, 2*, & 3* Bronze

Holly Corcoran - 2* Bronze & 3* Silver

Jessica Dicamillo - 1*, 2*, & 3* Bronze

Heather Reynolds - 3* Bronze; 1* & 2* Silver (achieved 1* Silver status in 2024)

Jeremy Reynolds - 1* Bronze; 2* and 3* Silver

Stephen Rojek - 1* & 2* Bronze; 3* Gold

Kelsey Russell - 1* & 3* Silver; 2* Gold (achieved 3* Silver status in 2024)

Meg Sleeper - 3* Bronze

Cheryl Van Deusen - 1* Silver; 2* & 3* Gold

Young Rider/Junior Athletes

Avery Betz-Conway - 2* Bronze

Annamaria Clarke – 2* Bronze (achieved 2* Bronze status in 2024)

Uma Kraskin - 2* Bronze (achieved 2* Bronze status in 2024)

More at:
https://www.usef.org/media/press-releases/us-equestrian-congratulates-active-fei-endurance

Dave Rabe’s Cheys Cocamoe Joe is AHA’s 2024 Distance Horse of the Year

November 28 2024
By Nina Bomar

Longtime endurance rider, PS Regional director, and friend to many, Marci Schmidt Cunningham, took it upon herself to nominate Dave Rabe and Cocamoe Joe for the Arabian Horse Association “Distance Horse of the Year Award”. It is no surprise that he and his horse emerged victorious!

This special award belongs to a deserving team that will appreciate and enjoy it for many years. It’s a great honor and tribute to Dave, a talented and enduring horseman, and his horse “Cocamoe Joe,” who knows how to get things done!

Dave's happiness soared when he found out, and immediately shared the news with Cocamoe Joe. I can say with certainty that their pride in receiving such an honorable recognition shines brightly.

Please enjoy the nomination letter I’ve shared below, which Marci passionately wrote and submitted to AHA. Thank you, Marci, for doing a great thing for our most accomplished endurance rider in AERC history and his perfect 10+ horse, Cocamoe Joe.

“Cheys Cocamoe Joe started his endurance career in 2011 during the Twenty Eleven Pony Express ride from St Joe MO to Virginia City NV over eight weeks. He was part of Australian Charlie Gauci’s string of horses that he brought to the ride. At the end of the ride, Charlie gave him to Dave Rabe because no one wanted to buy him since he had a reputation for being unruly. As of 2024 Dave Rabe has been riding AERC sanctioned endurance rides for close to 40 years and has over 78,000 miles. However, this write up is not about Dave Rabe, but Cheys Cocamoe Joe and what he has accomplished in his fourteen seasons of endurance, most notably his “Perfect 10” award.

“The AERC “Perfect 10” award is one of the most coveted awards that AERC offers and the most difficult to achieve. In 2023, Cheys Cocamoe Joe became a “Perfect 10” which means that he has competed for at least 10 years, with 10,000 miles, 10 first place finishes, and 10 best condition awards. Only ten equines have achieved this AERC award since its inception in 1997. There are thousands of horses that have competed in AERC endurance rides over the years but only a minute fraction has become “Perfect 10” recipients. It is hard to imagine riding a horse 10 plus years for 10,000 miles with 10 first place finishes and 10 best condition awards, and Cheys Cocamoe Joe is one of only ten horses with this accomplishment.

“Dave admires him for both his strength and determination. They often disagree on their speed and pacing, but Dave has done a great job conserving him and keeping him sound and healthy. Cheys Cocamoe Joe is always ready for the next ride, even after achieving the Perfect 10 award. One of their most memorable rides was the 2016 Shamrock ride where they were first place and Cheys Cocamoe Joe received Best Condition with a perfect vet score of 800 points.

“Out of 230 endurance ride starts, Cheys Cocamoe Joe has 222 completions, 15 first places, and 14 Best Condition awards over his career to date. He has completed 4 one hundred-mile rides, including the Tevis Cup in 2018 when Charlie Gauci flew back to the states from Australia to compete. Dave had promised Charlie that he could ride him in the Tevis Cup. Cheys Cocamoe Joe was ‘Top 5’ in the 2015, 2021, and 2024 AHA Region 2 Fifty Mile Endurance Championship Rides.

“From 2015 through 2023* Cheys Cocamoe Joe has placed in the year-end AERC West Region Middleweight division standings. He was first place in every year except for 2018 and 2019 where he placed second and third, respectively. In 2015, 2022, and 2023 he placed first overall in the West Region, one of the largest and most competitive AERC regions. Regional Points are based on horse/rider teams in each region earning the most weight division and overall points. In 2023 Dave and Cheys Cocamoe Joe received the AERC National Senior Mileage Championship Award completing 1,275 miles, besting the second-place horse by 305 miles.

“Cheys Cocamoe Joe turned nineteen in 2024 and is still competing in endurance with 11,500 miles to date, 410 of those miles are in 2024. With a 14-year career and still going strong, Cheys Cocamoe Joe will be competing for many years with Dave Rabe’s guidance and is a worthy recipient of the 2024 AHA Distance Horse of the Year Award.”

*There were no year-end awards in 2020 due to Covid.

2024 October's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

by Ashley Winch | Oct 8, 2024

Revisit: Today we look back at some great tips we got over the years. First, Victoria Beelik discusses the most important things to do to plan now for an emergency with your animals. Then Karen explains what tailing in an endurance ride is and how to do it safely. Finally, Karen discusses ride strategy to make sure you and your horse complete your ride. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/10/endurance-revisit-emergencies-tailing-and-ride-strategy-for-october-8-2024-horses-in-the-morning/

Vonita Kay Bowers 1954-2024

Hornnailhaggardfh.com

Vonita Kay Bowers was born on February 25, 1954 to Gordon and Mary Cooper Tipping. She passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 70.

Vonita had a deep passion for horseback riding and was a dedicated equestrian. With 9,960 competition miles, she competed across North America as an Endurance rider for almost 40 years.

Vonita is preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Mary Lois Tipping; loving husband, Dr. Michael L. Bowers; sisters, Geneva Murl Tipping, Janice Tipping Griffith; brothers, Jack Tipping, Donald Tipping; friend and companion, Joe Herron. Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Aaron Bowers and wife, Britney, Matt Bowers and wife, Amanda; grandchildren, Haley Bowers, Piper Bowers, Lailah Bowers, Abigail Bowers, Michael R. Bowers; beloved nephew, Bill Bowers and wife, Stephanie; brother, Anthony Tipping; numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and extended family; as well as friend and companion, Russell Broussard.

The family would like to thank Chambers Hospice for their dedication and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Prevent Cancer Foundation. https://preventcancer.org/donate/

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, from 5-7 PM in the chapel of Horn-Nail-Haggard Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 10 AM in the chapel of Horn-Nail-Haggard Funeral Home. Interment will take place in Hughes Springs Cemetery.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Vonita Kay Bowers please visit our Sympathy Store.

NW Endurance Rider Barb McGann Releases New Ebook

November 23 2024

All The Great Horses (And How They Enriched My Life Through The Years) is a new ebook release from Idaho Endurance rider Barb McGann. It joins the Endurance.net bookshelf as a keeper!

Seen through the eyes of a horse-crazy young 9-year-old girl, and now, a mature horse-crazy adult with a lifetime of equine wisdom, McGann shares with readers stories of some of the most memorable horses and riding adventures throughout her lifetime. From her first Quarter horse/Morgan mare Lil to her last horses Katie and Ellie, she recounts the accomplishments and personalities of these special horses that touched her heart and set the course(s) of her life.

As a young girl, McGann and her mom ran a riding stable in the red rock canyons of Utah, and besides the memorable horses they owned, taking German soldiers stationed at White Sands, NM, provided endless miles and memories and, in some cases, entertainment for both McGann and the German Dudes.

Once McGann discovered Endurance riding in the 1970s, the horse adventures took off in a whole new direction. Riding Arabians, Saddlebreds, Standardbreds, Quarter horses, and a Tennessee Walker over the decades, McGann’s escapades in and out of the saddle will surprise and delight anyone who has ever had - or wanted - a horse of their own.

Get it on Amazon here:
https://www.amazon.com/ALL-GREAT-HORSES-ENRICHED-THROUGH-ebook/dp/B0DNRVB3WW/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vyCW7KuXTWqEWag3g5kmeg.Wi8l0A9-3yVnBOEeFoBLGLqHXTihBhnPMJXmn8bMU78&dib_tag=se&qid=1732465236&refinements=p_27%3ABARB+MCGANN&s=digital-text&sr=1-1&text=BARB+MCGANN

See the rest of Endurance.net’s bookshelf here:
http://www.endurance.net/Books/

Applications Now Open for 2025 USEF Endurance Competition and U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grants

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Nov 14, 2024, 8:00 AM

Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is now accepting applications for the Endurance Competition Grant and U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grant. These grants are intended to support FEI Endurance competitions in the U.S. to maintain a healthy calendar of competitions, as well as to support U.S. FEI endurance officials and maintain a healthy number of officials that are licensed in the U.S. Applications for both grants are due by February 1, 2025.

Competition Grant:

• Application deadline is February 1st, 2025

• Financial support for U.S. FEI Licensed Endurance competitions for 2025

• Competitions must be licensed by USEF and sanctioned by the FEI

• Grant amounts will be communicated by March 1, 2025

• More information can be found on the application



U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grant:

Application deadline is February 1st, 2025

Financial support for U.S. FEI endurance officials for both maintenance requirements and promotion, education, and experience

Applicants must be:

• in good standing with the USEF and the FEI; and

• an active FEI official working toward their current license(s) maintenance requirements; or

• seeking FEI Endurance license or promotion

Grant amounts will be communicated by March 1, 2025

More information can be found on the application



Completed applications for both grants must be submitted to Nicole Zerbee, USEF Director of Endurance, by Feb. 1, 2025.

Questions? Contact Nicole Zerbee, Director of Endurance, at nzerbee@usef.org or 859-225-6952.

Tom Bowling Passes Away

On 11/17/24, AERC lost a family member who fought a tough battle with Parkinson’s after a stroke several years ago.

For those who knew Tom Bowling, past AERC director for many years, 2000 mile XP rider, founder of Pioneer rides in 1982 as ride manager of historic 200 mile multi day Capitol to Capitol ride, Western States 50 and original manager of Camp Far West Endurance Rides, Nevada Endurance Driving Association founding member and member and friend of Nevada All State Trail Riders. Beloved friend to many, he changed the lives of many for the better.

Husband to Nadine for over 53 years and father to Wendy, Holly, Shawn Bowling, Tiffany and grandpa to Kaitlyn, Shelby, Brett, Nick, Jack, Ryder Bowling, Levi and great grandpa to Kaitlyn’s three boys and Shelby’s three girls and father in law to Aaron, Shane, Lisa, and Matt and a mentor to many.

He is missed dearly and for any who’d like to remember him you are welcome to attend a celebration of his life on Friday December 13 at 1pm in Newcastle, California.

2024 September's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Poop Week and Endurance: Dung Beetles and The Alchemy of Horses for September 10, 2024 by Poseidon Animal Health – HORSES IN THE MORNING

by Ashley Winch | Sep 10, 2024

We start the show with Poop Week, by Poseidon Animal Health, and a discussion on the importance of Dung Beetles. Then we transition to Endurance with author and Endurance Rider Donna Snyder Smith and her new book “The Alchemy of Horses: A Journey of Self-Healing”. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/09/poop-week-and-endurance-dung-beetles-and-the-alchemy-of-horses-for-september-10-2024-by-poseidon-animal-health-horses-in-the-morning/

Del Black 1933-2024

GreybullStandard.com

March 10, 1933 - Nov. 11, 2024

Marian Adella “Del” Black passed away Nov. 11, 2024, at the age of 91. Del was born at her parents’ home on March 10, 1933. She and her sisters grew up on the family farm along the Greybull River and began their education at the Gould School.

Shortly after graduating from Basin High School in 1951, Del married Tom Black. They enjoyed more than 72 years of adventures together.

There was nothing Del enjoyed more than the great outdoors! She found beauty in the badlands, the desert, and the Big Horn Mountains. Tom and Del made memories and friends wherever they traveled. For some years they made a home near Sells, Ariz., and enjoyed exploring the land and culture of the Tohono O’odham Nation.

Del was a homemaker, but true to her roots, she worked seasonal agricultural jobs including weighing barley for Coors, driving beet truck, working at the dairy and delivering fertilizer. She loved playing cards, decorating her home inside and out and spending time with friends. She was an accomplished endurance horse rider, earning standings in the Mountain Region Endurance Program.

Del was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Black; parents, Victor and Ada Boelens; sister, Dolores Dace; and infant daughter, Lori Black.

Del is survived by daughters, Donna (Mike) Steckel of Taylor, Neb., Jeri (Joel) Farber of Thermopolis, and Wendy (Ross) Henderson of Greybull; sisters Carolyn Walton of Greybull and Vicki (Randy) Smith of Littleton, Colo.; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren with one more due in January.

Del was loved by many. We will miss her grace and class. In lieu of flowers please share a story of your time with Tom and Del. A celebration of their lives will be planned for next year. Donations in memory of Del Black may be directed to Stillwater Hospice of Northern Wyoming, 210 North Bent Street, Powell, WY 82435.

Biltmore to host 2025 AERC National and Young Rider Championships

AERC.org

The spectacular Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, has been approved by the AERC Board of Directors as the 2025 AERC National Championship and Young Rider Championship location. Cheryl Newman will serve as ride manager, with a full complement of experienced veterinarians, volunteers, and and Biltmore staff on hand to ensure an awesome event.

Hurricane Helene cleanup is well underway, according to https://www.biltmore.com/, and the trails and grounds will be in great shape for the whirlwind of rides on May 2 and 3, 2025. Attendees will also be able to enjoy clinics and vendors, up to four days of camping, and Biltmore Estate activities. Make the event your spring vacation with family and friends!

As for the rides, the focus is on the two National Championship rides and the Young Rider Championship (qualifications apply), but there will be multiple options for all levels of riders (check out the Ride Calendar at https://aerc.org/calendar/ for details):

2025 AERC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Friday, May 2: 50
Saturday, May 3: 100 (FEI offered)

2025 AERC YOUNG RIDER CHAMPIONSHIP
Saturday, May 3: 75 (FEI offered)

2025 BILTMORE OPEN CHALLENGE – OPEN RIDES
Friday, May 2: 25, 50
Saturday, May 3: 30, 55, 75 (FEI offered), 100 (FEI offered)

Make plans now to experience the AERC National Championships at the Biltmore Estate. Be sure to watch for Endurance News articles and visit Biltmore.com as the ride dates approach.

Jerry L. Fruth 1940-2024

CourierPress.com

Jerry L Fruth of Evansville Indiana former Posey County resident of Wadesville IN passed away Thursday October 24th, 2024. He was born on February 14, 1940, in Napoleon, Ohio to the late Orville & Doris (Rogalski) Fruth.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Judith (Fruth) Freiburger.

Jerry attended Napoleon Grade School & High School in Ohio. He was in high school drama work and in one play, “Born Yesterday”, with the Little Theatre Group, home of fine theatrical productions in the Fort Knox area. Jerry attended Ohio University for a few years and then enlisted in the United States Army. He was an NCO and Drill Sergeant for 6 years and a very proud veteran of the United States of America. Jerry was an entrepreneur, real estate developer and President of P47, LLC. Jerry’s passions included playing polo in his years after the Army and anything to do with the horses.

He loved riding his horses in the sport of endurance riding with the organization (AERC) American Endurance Ride Conference for 15 years with his wife (Diane) and son (Ryan). Two of his favorites were Abba Peavine a gelding a.k.a barn name “Red”, and a stallion Jabask Knight a.k.a barn name “Irene”. Jerry and Diane were Ride Managers of the LBL Express rides held at Land Between the Lakes 2002-2007.They also managed Endurance Rides in Indiana and one in California. In 2003 they adopted a 3-year-old Mustang named “Rocky” from the BLM Holding Facility in Litchfield, California. Jerry truly loved his 21-Year-Old Mustang “Rocky” and traveling with him to see the beauty of our USA. Jerry was involved with AERC as a past Vice President, Trails Committee Chairman where he served for 10 years. He was a certified AERC Trail Master Builder & Instructor. He served on the National Trails Committee with the American Horse Council in Washington, D.C. In April 2004 he was awarded the BLM Director’s Four C’s Award by Kathleen Clarke. He had worked with New Harmony, Indiana in the past on the park’s Horse Trails. In 2007 he was awarded the AERC Volunteer of the Year Award.

Jerry's other passions were membership in the VFW, life member of Indiana Trail Ride Association, Lifetime Golden Age Passport to all of the National Parks, AERC, Hoosier Backcountry Horsemen, Back Country Horsemen of America, Leave No Trace and other horse organizations. Jerry loved to ski, snow shoe, fly fish, read all kinds of books & magazines, travel with his horses to many different places with family and friends and have good times with his family and friends. Jerry always had a very creative eye for building & woodworking. He could look at something and create it.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 30 years, Diane Fruth; son Ryan A. Fruth (Jeannie); and a brother Jay Fruth of Napoleon Ohio.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 CST on Monday, November 4th, 2024 at Alexander North Chapel, officiated by Roger Lehman, with a private entombment to follow in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends and Family may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Sunday, November 3rd, 2024 CST from 10:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday, November 4, 2024 at City View at Sterling Square, 210 N. Fulton Ave. Evansville.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Mustang Adoption Academy with Sky, or Hoosier Backcountry Horsemen.

Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderNorthChapel.com.

Morgane Schambourg: A veterinarian dedicated to advancing equine medicine

Nouvelles.umontreal.ca - Full Article

UdeM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine welcomes Morgane Schambourg, a specialist in equine surgery and sports medicine who honed her skills in the United Arab Emirates caring for endurance racehorses.

UdeMNouvelles
10/16/2024
Virginie Soffer

Morgane Schambourg has always loved animals, especially horses. An avid rider, she remembers telling everyone she wanted to be an animal doctor and take care of horses when she grew up. That childhood dream came true.

Now Schaumbourg is joining UdeM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine as an assistant professor specializing in equine surgery and sports medicine. She brings with her a long list of accomplishments in equine medicine, including the development of an anti-doping test for endurance racehorses now used around the world.

From Nantes to Saint-Hyacinthe

Schambourg trained as a vet in France, earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the École nationale vétérinaire de Nantes in 1998. Finishing in the top three of her graduating class in the equine option, she was selected for a three-week practicum at UdeM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Saint-Hyacinthe, near Montreal...

Read the rest here:
https://nouvelles.umontreal.ca/en/article/2024/10/16/morgane-schambourg-a-veterinarian-dedicated-to-advancing-equine-medicine/

Beer for the horses? It would be too expensive - Moab Canyons

MoabTimes.com - Full Story

Castle Valley Comments
October 15, 2024
By Ron Drake

The Castle Valley Fire District does a lot more than extinguish fires.

The fire district stands by when a property owner feels a little intimidated about burning their large pile of vegetation during the open burn season and asks for a standby when they torch the pile.

As their permit requires, the fire district personnel stand by during the annual fireworks display at Dewey each fall. The fireworks have been associated with the annual Moab Music Festival held at a Dewey ranch. They have been on standby for field burns in Professor Valley and Castle Valley and the district has also been requested during filming of movies and commercials in the area. Many times the request comes with a donation to the fire district.

This past weekend the district was asked to assist the annual Moab Canyons Endurance Ride, which was located off Highway 313 on a large tract of land under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management. The event is sanctioned by the American Endurance Ride Conference, an organization that promotes horse endurance events nationally...

Read more here:
https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/beer-for-the-horses-it-would-be-too-expensive/

Island equestrian selected for 2026 Gaucho Derby in South America

VashonBeachComber.com - Full Article

The derby will take riders through the stunning landscapes of Patagonia.

By Aspen Anderson For The Beachcomber • October 9, 2024

Ashleigh Rauen, a seasoned equestrian and long time islander, is set to embark February 2026 on one of the most grueling horse races in the world: the Gaucho Derby in Patagonia, Argentina.

“Am I really gonna do this?” she said with a laugh.

The Gaucho Derby is a 500-kilometer endurance race through the wilderness of Patagonia, a mountainous land of fjords, rainforests, glaciers, deserts and steppes in the southern side of South America, where riders must navigate their way on horseback with the help of topographical maps and a GPS.

Participants are allowed only 20 pounds of gear and must camp along the way with limited supplies, swapping horses multiple times throughout the race which are selected via a randomized “hat draw.”

Riders fly to Argentina and then take a 10-hour bus ride to the race’s starting point near El Calafate, toward the southern end of the country. The course ends with the iconic Mount Fitz Roy in the background.

Hundreds of riders apply to race, but only about 10% of applicants are accepted.

Rauen, who specializes in three-day eventing, will face an entirely new set of challenges when the race starts in February...

Read more here:
https://www.vashonbeachcomber.com/news/island-equestrian-selected-for-2026-gaucho-derby-in-south-america/

First veterinary class: Claire Godwin endures as clinician, surgeon and horse rider

Virginia Tech News - Full Article

By Kevin Myatt
8 Oct 2024

Claire Godwin DVM '84 has displayed endurance in her veterinary career. Endurance is the goal in her passion outside work, also.

Godwin, a graduate of the first class from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984, founded the Laytonsville Veterinary Practice in Laytonsville, Maryland, in 1988. The small animal practice is still going strong with five veterinarians.

Godwin is an active endurance rider, traveling across the U.S and beyond, riding one-day, 50- to 100-mile endurance races on her Arabian horses.

Animals have always been a passion for Godwin...

Read more here:
https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/10/vetmed-first-veterinary-class-godwin.html

Tevis 2024

ArabianHorseWorld.com - Full Article

by Merri Melde
10.01.24

As featured in the Fall 2024 issue of Arabian Horse World

Combining almost 15,000 feet of elevation gain and 21,000 feet of descent, punishing heat, rocks and bogs underfoot, canyons, rivers, and the Sierra Nevada mountain range to cross, the 100-mile Tevis Cup is one of the toughest endurance rides in the world. Riders from all over the globe come to test their horsemanship, partnership, and luck with their mount from the start at Robie Park above Lake Tahoe to the finish line in Auburn, California, in a time limit of 24 hours.

The Tevis Cup has seen many firsts throughout the decades. Still, this year’s 68th running was the first time a mother-daughter team, Jeanette and Reyna Mero, from Mariposa, California, finished first and second.

Mother Jeanette rode 12-year-old Ozark Kaolena SWA (“Lena”) to first place in a ride time of 14 hours and 50 minutes. Fourteen minutes later, daughter Reyna crossed the finish line aboard 11-year-old Chndakas Eklipse SWA (“Clippie”). The next morning, Clippie took the Haggin Cup, awarded to the horse in the top ten judged to be in the most superior condition...

Read more here:
https://arabianhorseworld.com/tevis-2024/

Girl vs. Horse: Why a long-distance runner raced a horse in a 50-mile marathon

NBCNewYork.com - Full Story

"If it was the last thing I did before I died, I wanted to race a horse," Nicole Teeny said after her epilepsy diagnosis.

By Mike Gavin and Erica Messick • Published September 25, 2024

Nicole Teeny was the dark horse.

She took her place at the starting line of a 50-mile course, but when the marathon began and her opponents set forth, she stood in place.

“I started a few minutes later,” she said, “because I didn't want to get run over.”

It was a stampede of sorts. The 18 opponents she was competing against were horses.

“We all set off onto the same 50-mile course,” Teeny told NBC Local. “It had a couple of loops and we just saw who crosses the finish line first...”

Read the rest here:
https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/sports/girl-vs-horse-nicole-teeny-espn/5829777/

Arizona: Humans Will Challenge Horses for the Fortieth Year

FlagstaffBusinessNews.com - Full Article

September 6, 2024 By FBN

The epic Man Against Horse race takes off next month in Dewey.

On Oct. 19, for the 40th year, long distance runners and horse/rider teams will hoof it to the top of Mingus Mountain and back in the grueling Man Against Horse 50-mile race, a historic Prescott area “best kept secret.”

Look for race favorites to return for the anniversary event, including four-time winner Kim Abbott with her Arabian horse “Goat,” and runners for whom this race has become a favorite.

The Man Against Horse Race was founded in 1983 when Prescott runner and City Councilmember Gheral Brownlow made a bar bet on Whiskey Row with cowboy and police officer Steve Rafters that he could outrun Rafters’ horse in a race. The original race was from Williams to Perkinsville, and it was a two-day contest, said Race Director Ron Barrett. The race was later moved to its current location, a loop over Mingus Mountain and back to the finish at the Fain Ranch base camp just off Highway 89A...

Read more here:
https://www.flagstaffbusinessnews.com/humans-will-challenge-horses-for-the-fortieth-year/

2024 August's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

August 13 2024

Tevis winner Jeanette ‘Jay’ Mero joins us to discuss her amazing win in blazing hot conditions and she also addresses the horses that were lost this year. Then her daughter, Reyna Mero, tells us about riding with her Mom, coming in 2nd and winning the “Haggin Cup”. Plus Karen explains efficient trot transitions are key to conserving your horse’s energy and maintaining a good pace throughout an endurance ride. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/08/endurance-tevis-winners-jeanette-and-reyna-mero-and-trot-transitions-for-august-13-2024/

Local Iowa Firefighter Completes 600-Mile Horseback Adventure Across Mongolia

CommunityNewspaperGroup.com - Full Article

By VINTON LIONS CLUB
September 12 2024

VINTON — At today’s Lions Club meeting, local firefighter and horse enthusiast, Shelby Van Weelden, captivated the audience with a remarkable presentation about her recent 600-mile horseback ride across Mongolia. This adventurous journey took place on semi-wild horses, with riders receiving a new horse every 100 miles, drawn by lottery. Shelby shared the unpredictability and excitement of never knowing what kind of horse she would get until it was time to mount.

Her incredible tale included being thrown from her horse three times, a bout with suspected broken ribs, and a quick release from medical care – only to continue riding. Despite the challenges, Shelby described the experience as “amazing” and well worth the two years of rigorous training leading up to the adventure...

Read more here:
https://www.communitynewspapergroup.com/newsletter/content/vinton_daily_headlines/local-firefighter-completes-600-mile-horseback-adventure-across-mongolia/article_7ee0a9be-710d-11ef-9e89-0bd12362a6db.html

2024 July's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com Podcast - Listen

Endurance: Lost Horse Found, Rescue Horse Aims for Tevis, Bandana Tourniquet Saves the Day, for July 9, 2024 – HORSES IN THE MORNING

by Ashley Winch | Jul 9, 2024

Judy Hayamizu shares the harrowing story of her horse Sparky’s week long walk about in the California wilderness. Erna Valdivia stops by to talk about entering the Tevis Cup with her Shagya Arabian mare, adopted from Love This Horse Rescue. Plus, Karen shares her new saddle bag emergency kit and the terrifying event that inspired the update.

Listen:
https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/07/endurance-lost-horse-found-rescue-horse-aims-for-tevis-bandana-tourniquet-saves-the-day-for-july-9-2024-horses-in-the-morning/

Big Sky Memorial Ride brings endurance equine event to Lincoln County

TheWesternNews.com - Full Article

by SCOTT SHINDLEDECKER
The Western News | August 23, 2024 7:00 AM

There are few things as satisfying as enjoying a trail ride with a trusted horse in the wilds of northwest Montana.

Trail riders from several states and Canada competed in the sport of endurance horse riding in south Lincoln County a few weeks ago.

The Big Sky Memorial Ride was held Saturday, Aug. 10, in the Jackson Creek area north of Libby.

The sport got its start in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains half a century ago when a man with an Arabian horse challenged his friends to go up and over the range in a 100-mile race.

But these rides are about endurance, not racing to the finish line...

Read more here:
https://thewesternnews.com/news/2024/aug/23/big-sky-memorial-ride-brings-endurance-equine-event-to-lincoln-county/

Year of the Mustang Stops in Kosciusko Amid Cross-Country Voyage

InkFreeNews.com - Full Article

August 22 2024
Text and Photos By Madison Hart
InkFreeNews

PACKERTON — Jake Harvath and his two mustang horses stopped for the night at a family farm in Packerton during their cross-country voyage for Year of the Mustang on Thursday, Aug. 22.

The Year of the Mustang is an initiative to “…bring awareness to the plight of the American mustang, wild horses that were once a symbol of an untamed country but now struggle to keep their place in it,” writes Harvath on his GoFundMe page. According to Harvath, there are 50,000 mustangs in government holdings that can no longer live in the wild due to dwindling resources. Harvath wants people to see that mustangs are worth adopting.

When Harvath was 14 years old, he was an apprentice horse-trainer. That’s when he was gifted his first mustang mare, Belle. At 16, he started dreaming of a long-distance trip on horseback. At first, he discussed riding across Utah with his friends. By the time he was 18 or 19 years old, he had formulated a plan for a cross-country journey...

Read more here:
https://www.inkfreenews.com/2024/08/22/year-of-the-mustang-stops-in-kosciusko-amid-cross-country-voyage/

From Rescue To Ribbons: Erna Valdivia Makes Tevis Cup History With ‘Lovie’

Chronofhorse.com - Full Article

PUBLISHED August 13, 2024
WORDS BY Christina Keim

Vera Valdivia-Abdallah, founder and director of a major Arabian horse rescue, has helped hundreds of animals recover from dire circumstances. When she learned about a herd of 53 Arabians in Oregon in need of help late in 2020, she mobilized immediately to bring the animals to her Love This Horse Equine Rescue, located about 100 miles north of Los Angeles.

The story of the Oregon horses was one she had heard a version of many times before in her nearly 15 years of equine rescue work: The horses’ owner had passed away, his family had no idea what to do with the animals—many of which had never been handled—and in desperation, they contacted a horse trader to “come and get them.”

“Other than a few older horses who were broke to ride, he never even halter-trained them,” Valdivia-Abdallah said. “The horse trader basically rounded them up and dispersed them to different auctions.”

Because they were mostly unhandled, the majority of the Oregon herd was at risk of being sold to dealers shipping to slaughter. Valdivia-Abdallah began attending regional auctions, looking for them specifically...

Read the rest here:
https://www.chronofhorse.com/article/from-rescue-to-ribbons-erna-valdivia-makes-tevis-cup-history-with-lovie/

Race-bred Arabians Finish 1-2, with 4 in the Top 10 of the 2024 Tevis Cup

Crissy Wilson Tadlock photo

ArabianRacing.org

It was a very special Tevis Cup this year for Race-bred Arabians and the Mero family! Join us in congratulating Jay Mero on winning the coveted 100-mile race on her mare Ozark Kaolena SWA, as well as her daughter, Reyna Mero, for her second-place finish on Chndakas Eklipse SWA. The next day, Chndakas Eklipse SWA was awarded the Haggin Cup as the top-10 finisher with a horse in "most superior physical condition." Though that’s not the only family tie! Both mares are three-quarter sisters, as they share the dam FMR Ozark Eklipse and are by sires by Dormane—"Lena" by Kaolino and "Clippie" by Chndaka.

Lena raced an impressive 19 times from 2015 to 2017 with a 2-0-1 record and earnings of $13,151 across Texas, Colorado, California, and Delaware. Clippie raced 6 times at Delaware Park, though never hit the board.

We were lucky enough to catch up with Jay about her Tevis Cup and the two Race-bred mares that brought them home. “Lena was a rockstar from the get-go," she said. "There was nothing to make in Lena. All I needed to do was condition her for what needed to happen. She is so polite, but yet very hot!” This isn’t Lena’s first Tevis. In fact, she’s completed the race four times, winning the Haggin Cup in 2021, the same year Race-bred Arabian Treasured Moments won the first of her two Tevises.

You might think that Lena and Clippie are similar, but Jay tells us, “They’re two very different creatures.” Clippie is a bit more calm and less of a leader on the trail, but in the last couple of years the mare has come out of her shell and even led through portions of the day.

"Any 100-(mile race) is a series of problem solving,” Jay says, “though the day started out weirdly perfect.” A veteran of the race, she had yet to experience a race going so smoothly, so they went with it, going faster than they typically would with the mare’s best interest at the forefront. Though they were doing so well, Jay and Reyna never had to pull their tack, adding, “They never lost their motors.”

Of course Jay was proud of her accomplishment, but in speaking to her, we could hear her beaming through the phone about how Reyna handled Clippie’s recovery, “I didn’t tell her how long to stay at Franciscos. Clippie was passed to go, but she knew she had to stay a while longer and went when she was ready.”

When asked what sets Race-bred Arabians apart, Jay tells us it’s their mind and heart. In fact, she nearly gave up the dream to win Tevis, as the competition has become so fierce and the horses are pushed so hard, “A win is never worth bringing in a horse looking like it worked too hard,” Jay says, “When I would ask her if she could keep that pace up, it was always like, 'Sure! I got this!'” And that was apparent in Clippie’s performance as well, as she and Reyna took home this year’s Haggin Cup!

So many congratulations to the Mero family and we can’t wait to continue following their journeys!

Ozark Kaolena SWA’s maiden victory on the track:
https://fb.watch/tTaLK8T_Ax/

Barbara Louise Sanches 1941-2024

Legacy.com

Barbara Louise Sanches passed away peacefully at home on July 25, 2024 at the young age of 82.

Barbara was born in San Francisco, California and to her friends was called "Barb". She was a survivor of many things in her life and was a strong and passionate woman about the things she believed in. Her greatest accomplishments in life she would say were her love for her family, and her many cherished horses. She loved her endurance and horse-riding family and love of the sport, especially when she was able to ride side by side with her husband Ron of 47 years. Barbara and her exceptional Arabian horse Calculator VA ++, "aka "Tor" rode as a team member on the Pacific South Endurance Squad, the North American Endurance Squad and many other 100-mile endurance rides over her 20-year career as an endurance rider. In her professional career, Barbara gave so much of herself to others in her lifetime having worked in local non-profit organizations such as MS Community Services, Sun Street Centers and Freedom House. Barbara was respected by everyone she encountered, always providing support, lending an ear or giving them the tough love they needed to hear.

Barbara is survived by her adoring husband Ronald C. Sanches, her Daughter, Aimee Warren, Son in Law David Warren, granddaughter, Karlee Warren, grandson Travis Warren, Sister in Laws, Carol Culy (Michael) of Clovis, Ca and Janice (Jack) Allen of Elk Grove, Ca and of course Winnie, the Grand kitty.

The family wishes to thank the loving caregivers that she had, Tiffany Velasquez and Brittany Loura whose loving care and joyful natures enriched her life daily and allowed her to stay in her home. She is now riding with Tor again in the sky.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Greybull native to ride 620-mile Mongolian Derby, the World’s Toughest Horse Race

BasinRepublican-Rustler.com - Full Article

Thu, 08/01/2024
Victoria O’Brien

Dede Anders thought she had more time. After a lengthy interview process, Anders was selected to run in the Mongolian Derby, the world’s longest and toughest endurance horse race, in 2025. But after another rider’s injury, Anders was called up to the 2024 competition a little over a month ago, upending her original plans. In a little more than a week’s time, she will be competing halfway across the world against 49 other riders from around the globe in the world’s toughest endurance race.

The Mongol derby follows what historians have called the empire’s nerve system: the horse messenger system created by Ghengis Khan that once connected over half of the world. Riding semi-wild Mongolian horses, competitors are armed with only their packs, GPS and backup, and must ride for 11 hours a day for nine days straight as they navigate 620 miles of the rugged Mongolian steppe. Adding to the grueling demands of the competition is a final wrinkle: riders must swap their mounts every 25-miles at check-in stations where the horses will be vetted and checked over — riders who deliver their horse in poor condition will receive penalties — and competitors will receive food, aid and water...

Read more here:
https://www.basinrepublican-rustler.com/content/greybull-native-ride-620-mile-mongolian-derby-world%E2%80%99s-toughest-horse-race#

Local California teen competes in grueling equestrian race on rescued horse

FoxLA.com - Full Story and video

By Christina Gonzalez
Updated July 30, 2024

Teen competes in grueling race on rescued horse

Erna Valdivia just became the first African American teenage girl to compete in the Tevis Cup, a one-day, 100-mile race across the Sierra Nevada, and she did it on a horse her mother rescued.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. - "I still can't believe it" Erna Valdivia giggled as she shook her head. The 17-year-old recently became the first African American teenage girl to compete in one of the most prestigious and difficult endurance horse rides in the world: The Tevis Cup — 100 miles across the Sierra Nevada in one day.

"It's physically and emotionally exhausting, but she is the best" said Valdivia, as she pats "Love Story," the horse rescued by her mother, who runs the Love This Horse Equine Rescue in Mojave. The white mare was on her way to slaughter when they took her in. Initially so scared, no one could get near her, she formed a special bond with Erna, who started riding her...

Read more and see video here:
https://www.foxla.com/news/local-teen-competes-grueling-equestrian-race-rescued-horse

All in the Family: Mother-Daughter Duo Claim Tevis and Haggin Cup

ThePlaidHorse.com - Full Article

July 30 2024
By MERRI MELDE

The 68th running of the iconic Tevis Cup, known as one of the toughest 100-mile endurance rides in the world, was held July 21st, 2024. 139 horses and riders started from Robie Park above Lake Tahoe at 5:15 AM and climbed over the Sierra Nevada Mountains with the goal of reaching Auburn, California, in a 24-hour time limit.

In this year’s historic finish, a mother-daughter team of Jeannette and Reyna Mero from Mariposa, California, crossed the finish line in first and second places. Mother Jeannette, 56, finished at 10:05 PM aboard her partner in the endeavor, 12-year-old Arabian mare Ozark Kaolena SWA (Lena). Fourteen minutes later, daughter Reyna, 22, trotted under the finish banner in second place riding the 11-year-old Arabian mare Chndakas Eklipse SWA (Clippie).

Additionally, Sunday afternoon Reyna received the coveted Haggin Cup, awarded to the rider whose horse is judged to be in the most superior physical condition of the first ten horses to cross the finish line. Jeanette and Lena won the Haggin Cup in 2021.

With over 14,000 feet of elevation gain and 20,000 feet of elevation loss, rocks underfoot, bogs, dust, a river crossing, and guaranteed heat, particularly while traversing two deep canyons, the Tevis trail unrelentingly challenges the mental and physical abilities of horses and riders...

Read more here:
https://www.theplaidhorse.com/2024/07/30/all-in-the-family-mother-daughter-duo-claim-tevis-and-haggin-cup/

Mother, daughter finish 1-2 in Tevis Cup

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Jordan Georgeson
Jul 21, 2024 12:11 AM

In her sixth successful ride, Jeanette Mero can finally claim the most coveted title in endurance riding: the Tevis Cup.

The Mariposa native completed her 100-mile journey to Auburn's McCann Stadium at 10:05 p.m. Saturday night to win the 68th Tevis Cup, finishing with a time of 17 hours and five minutes. Mero has been a consistent top-10 finisher at Tevis for several years and won the Haggin Cup in 2021, but a first-place finish eluded her until Saturday.

"I honestly gave up thinking it would happen, and I was happy enough with winning a different cup. I'm kind of still in awe," Mero said, noting she was still nervous as she crossed the finish line in Auburn. "At that point, you're still praying that the horse is good, and you gotta get through the vet check to win. This was 20 years of hard work and there's nothing like this. The Tevis Cup is the biggest win in our sport. It's just amazing."

Mero said the difference this year was that everything went right for her and her horse, Lena, a 12-year-old Arabian that now boasts four Tevis finishes of her own...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/310631/jeanette-mero-wins-tevis-cup-daugher-reyna-finishes-second-wins-haggin-cup/

The Meros: Mother-Daughter Duo Claim Top Spots in 2024 Tevis Cup

By Merri Melde-Endurance.net

July 20 2024

Jeanette (Jay) Mero, of Mariposa, California, riding Ozark Kaolina SWA (Lena), won the 2024 Tevis Cup in a ride time of 14 hours 50 minutes. It was Jay’s 6th Tevis finish and Lena’s 5th finish. The duo won the Haggin Cup (Best Condition) in 2021.

Fourteen minutes later Jay’s daughter Reyna finished in second place aboard Chndakas Eklipse SWA (Clippie). It was the fifth Tevis finish for Reyna and the third for Clippie.

The Tevis Cup is still underway; competitors have until 5:15 AM July 21 to finish. 

To be continued…

http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2024TevisCup/

With Tevis Cup approaching, Auburn proclaims July 13 as Arabian Horse Day

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Traci Newell
Jul 09, 2024

In anticipation of the Western States Trail Ride approaching July 20, Auburn Mayor Rachel Radell-Harris proclaimed July 13 Arabian Horse Day in Auburn.

“Arabian horses are truly remarkable,” Radell-Harris said at a city council meeting Monday night. “They have made a lasting impact on many equestrian activities and continue to be admired for their versatility and lively nature. They have a rich history, unique traits and a lasting legacy.”

The proclamation highlighted the Arabian horses’ endurance and suitability for long-distance trail competitions. They have played a significant role in the Western States Trail Ride, commonly referred to as the Tevis Cup Ride, which concludes each year in Auburn...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/310441/with-tevis-cup-approaching-auburn-proclaims-july-13-as-arabian-horse-day/