USEF.org
RELEASE: November 29, 2011
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Endurance Department
RELEASE: November 29, 2011
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Endurance Department
Lexington, KY - For the first time the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) will send a full team and support staff to the FEI Junior and Young Rider World Endurance Championship. The 120km race will run on December 10, 2011 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. There will be over 35 countries represented by 150 riders between the ages of 14-21. The event is sponsored by HH Sheik Mansoor bin Zayed Al Nayan and organized by Adnan Al Nuaimi and his staff. The team and the traveling reserve horse named to the definite entry are as follows in ranked order:
Name (Age, Hometown)
Kelsey Russell (16, Williston, FL) on Valerie Kanavy's Gold Raven
Gold Raven is a 10-year-old Arabian mare
Kelsey Kimbler (18, Aberdeen, SD) on Kirsten Kimbler's Cody Canuck
Cody Canuck is a 14-year-old Arabian gelding
Steven Hay (21, Port Matilda, PA) on Natalie Muzzio's Khalil Asam
Khalil Asam is a 10-year-old Arabian gelding
Kyle Gibbon (21, Kingsland, GA) on Stephen Rojek's Misu Koran
Misu Koran is a 16-year-old Arabian gelding
Traveling Reserve Horse
Cheryl Van Deusen's DA Al Capone, a 16-year-old Arabian gelding
(to be ridden by Mary Kathryn Clark, 17, Eatonton, GA)
The team represents some of the United States' most experienced Young Riders aboard horses who have tracked many miles at the top levels of the sport. This summer four of the five riders experienced international championship competition for the first time at the Adequan/FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North (NAJYRC) where they also gained valuable team experience. Riding for Team USA, Russell captured the Team and Individual CEI4* Championship Gold Medals. She will ride Gold Raven, who has won nearly every CEI she's contested. Aiding in capturing that NAJYRC Team Gold was Gibbon, who also took the Individual Bronze with Misu Koran. In the non-championship CEI2* division, Hay and Khalil Asam took home a Team Gold and Individual Bronze, while Clark and DA Al Capone helped USA Southeast take the Team Silver.
As the 2010 USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year, Kimbler will also bring a depth of skill to the team. She has competed and medaled at several non-championship NAJYRC events in addition to multiple top five placings at CEIYJs.
"Words cannot express how very lucky and fortunate I feel to have reached this level to represent the United States," said Gibbon. "I am no less than thrilled to partake in this event on such a wonderful horse, all thanks to Misu Koran's owners Steve and Dinah Rojek."
The team will be led by Chef d'Equipe Emmett Ross, "As Chef d'Equipe of the U.S. Young Riders I am really looking forward to working with five very strong horse/rider combinations," said Ross. "These Young Riders will hopefully become candidates for our senior teams in World Endurance Championships. The U.S. development of Young Riders has been a huge focus and effort by several people including Jan Stevens and Kathy Brunjes, their efforts have produced these five strong riders as well as many others. As chef I have a goal of finishing all riders in a competitive environment with a chance of sneaking onto the podium. It will be a strategic race over the 75 mile course."
Ross will be joined by Team Vet Dr. Dwight Hooton, both of whom have significant experience working in the UAE.
Three of four team riders will need to complete the course to post a team score (aggregate total time of three riders score as a team). All riders will compete as individuals as well. There will be five vet checks throughout the race to check the horse's soundness and metabolic capacity in order to be allowed to continue, these checks are part of FEI's significant guidelines for the Welfare of the Horse.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Pan Am Silver Medalists John Crandell and Heraldic Receive "Touch of Class" Award
USEFNetwork.com
RELEASE: November 21, 2011
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Endurance Department
Lexington, KY - The Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB) last week presented the third "Touch of Class" Award to Silver medalists John Crandell III and Heraldic. Crandell and his Triple Crown-winning Arabian gelding won two Silver medals (Individual and Team) at the Pan American Games in Chile on October 21.
During the award presentation, Ashley Valis, deputy director of the Governor's Intergovernmental Affairs, presented the Crandells with a proclamation from Governor Martin O'Malley, declaring November 15 "Heraldic and Crandell Family Day."
"I'd like to commend the Crandell Family for their legendary accomplishments and commitment to the highest standards of equine training and care," said Governor O'Malley. We look forward to the continued success of Heraldic and the Crandells ..."
Heraldic was in routine quarantine in Miami after flying back from Chile, but was released in time to make it to his official homecoming and last week's Silver medal celebration event. Heraldic mingled with well-wishers, ate a few Maryland-grown apples, and posed for pictures in front of the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) headquarters in Annapolis.
"Maryland's rich history of horse-related agriculture goes back centuries, and Heraldic is a prime example of why horses and their stories are so enduring," said MDA Deputy Secretary Mary Ellen Setting during the awards ceremony. "Heraldic is a wonderful symbol of this important industry, and we are proud to host him here at MDA today."
Heraldic has been particularly versatile as an athlete, winning on the fastest as well as the most arduous courses in America. The Pan Am Games race course was a 75-mile course which Crandell and Heraldic completed in 6:03:38. The Crandell family has received recognition around the world for its success in training elite endurance horses, and last week's celebration is their first official recognition in Maryland.
Heraldic's story is the stuff of legend.
Heraldic became the only horse ever to win the Triple Crown of Endurance Riding in 2006. Those three races are the Old Dominion 100 in Virginia, the Tevis Cup in California, and the American Endurance Ride Conference Championship. In each of those events, Heraldic also received the "Best Conditioned Horse" award. And Crandell - who has been a professional farrier and trainer since 1983 - was named Overall Horseman of the Year in 2007 by Chronicle of the Horse magazine.
But in 2008, Heraldic suffered a life-threatening injury when he badly injured his stifle and had to recuperate without bearing any weight on the injured leg for months. Heraldic spent two years in rehabilitation but came back last year to win the first two legs of the Triple Crown again as well as his two Silver medals at the Pan Am Games last month. In 2010, he also won the FITS 100 miler with a time of 7:58. Heraldic's astonishing comeback is a major reason the MHIB selected to honor him and his trainer.
The MHIB's "Touch of Class" Award, named after the Maryland-bred Olympic Gold-medal winning horse, is presented to horses and people who represent the highest standards of excellence in Maryland's equine community. This is the third "Touch of Class" award presented by the MHIB.
RELEASE: November 21, 2011
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Endurance Department
Lexington, KY - The Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB) last week presented the third "Touch of Class" Award to Silver medalists John Crandell III and Heraldic. Crandell and his Triple Crown-winning Arabian gelding won two Silver medals (Individual and Team) at the Pan American Games in Chile on October 21.
During the award presentation, Ashley Valis, deputy director of the Governor's Intergovernmental Affairs, presented the Crandells with a proclamation from Governor Martin O'Malley, declaring November 15 "Heraldic and Crandell Family Day."
"I'd like to commend the Crandell Family for their legendary accomplishments and commitment to the highest standards of equine training and care," said Governor O'Malley. We look forward to the continued success of Heraldic and the Crandells ..."
Heraldic was in routine quarantine in Miami after flying back from Chile, but was released in time to make it to his official homecoming and last week's Silver medal celebration event. Heraldic mingled with well-wishers, ate a few Maryland-grown apples, and posed for pictures in front of the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) headquarters in Annapolis.
"Maryland's rich history of horse-related agriculture goes back centuries, and Heraldic is a prime example of why horses and their stories are so enduring," said MDA Deputy Secretary Mary Ellen Setting during the awards ceremony. "Heraldic is a wonderful symbol of this important industry, and we are proud to host him here at MDA today."
Heraldic has been particularly versatile as an athlete, winning on the fastest as well as the most arduous courses in America. The Pan Am Games race course was a 75-mile course which Crandell and Heraldic completed in 6:03:38. The Crandell family has received recognition around the world for its success in training elite endurance horses, and last week's celebration is their first official recognition in Maryland.
Heraldic's story is the stuff of legend.
Heraldic became the only horse ever to win the Triple Crown of Endurance Riding in 2006. Those three races are the Old Dominion 100 in Virginia, the Tevis Cup in California, and the American Endurance Ride Conference Championship. In each of those events, Heraldic also received the "Best Conditioned Horse" award. And Crandell - who has been a professional farrier and trainer since 1983 - was named Overall Horseman of the Year in 2007 by Chronicle of the Horse magazine.
But in 2008, Heraldic suffered a life-threatening injury when he badly injured his stifle and had to recuperate without bearing any weight on the injured leg for months. Heraldic spent two years in rehabilitation but came back last year to win the first two legs of the Triple Crown again as well as his two Silver medals at the Pan Am Games last month. In 2010, he also won the FITS 100 miler with a time of 7:58. Heraldic's astonishing comeback is a major reason the MHIB selected to honor him and his trainer.
The MHIB's "Touch of Class" Award, named after the Maryland-bred Olympic Gold-medal winning horse, is presented to horses and people who represent the highest standards of excellence in Maryland's equine community. This is the third "Touch of Class" award presented by the MHIB.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
UW-Eau Claire creative writing major's article to appear in Equus
November 15 2011
EAU CLAIRE (Press Release) - A University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire senior's essay that details her struggles and triumphs in equestrian endeavors was accepted for publication by a national horse magazine.
Any essay by Larissa Sprecher, a creative writing major from Cadott, was accepted for publication by the equestrian magazine Equus. The essay, "Worth the fight," is about the many struggles Sprecher has experienced with her Arabian mare, Cheeks.
"I bought and trained her in hopes that she would be my new endurance horse, but she had several severe, debilitating hoof conditions and injuries, one after another, that literally left her barely able to walk," Sprecher said.
Endurance rides are long-distance horse riding competitions, where participants can cover up to 100 miles in one day. Sprecher said she grew up riding horses and has competed in endurance riding for six years.
Through Sprecher's determination and hard work, Cheeks went from being crippled almost a year ago to logging more than 500 competition miles this past season.
"I don't mean to make it sound cheesy, but it is basically the story of a miracle," Sprecher said of her essay.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Young Endurance Rider Sponsored by KER
KER.com
November 11, 2011
Steven Hay is the latest world-class equestrian to be sponsored by Kentucky Equine Research (KER). He was recently chosen to represent the United States at the Young Rider World Endurance Championships, to be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on December 10, 2011.
Hay will ride Khalil Asam in the competition, and he feels honored to do so. "I'm blessed to have the opportunity to compete with this horse against the best young riders in the world. He is one of the most phenomenal horses I have come across. Not only are his athletic abilities most impressive, but his personality fills the barn," said Hay. Khalil Asam is owned by Natalie Muzzio.
Hay will use Kentucky Equine Research (KER) products in preparation for the international event, including Preserve™, Nano-E®, RiteTrac™, and KER-Flex®.
You can support Hay and his bid for gold by ordering research-proven supplements from KER. Whether you order online or talk to a customer service representative at 888-873-1988, use discount code SAMMY and receive 10% off your total order. A 10% donation on all products sold using the Champion Code SAMMY will then be passed on to Hay to help defray competition expenses to Abu Dhabi. This discount code will be valid until February 10, 2012.
Hay has an impressive competition record including individual and team medals at the 2010 and 2011 North American Junior Young Riders Championships, and multiple other top finishes at prestigious endurance events. He began riding in endurance competitions at the age of 12 and has accumulated over 2,800 miles, many of which were ridden on horses he owns and conditions.
Aside from his equestrian interests, Hay is a full-time student at Penn State University, where is pursuing a degree in environmental resource management.
November 11, 2011
Steven Hay is the latest world-class equestrian to be sponsored by Kentucky Equine Research (KER). He was recently chosen to represent the United States at the Young Rider World Endurance Championships, to be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on December 10, 2011.
Hay will ride Khalil Asam in the competition, and he feels honored to do so. "I'm blessed to have the opportunity to compete with this horse against the best young riders in the world. He is one of the most phenomenal horses I have come across. Not only are his athletic abilities most impressive, but his personality fills the barn," said Hay. Khalil Asam is owned by Natalie Muzzio.
Hay will use Kentucky Equine Research (KER) products in preparation for the international event, including Preserve™, Nano-E®, RiteTrac™, and KER-Flex®.
You can support Hay and his bid for gold by ordering research-proven supplements from KER. Whether you order online or talk to a customer service representative at 888-873-1988, use discount code SAMMY and receive 10% off your total order. A 10% donation on all products sold using the Champion Code SAMMY will then be passed on to Hay to help defray competition expenses to Abu Dhabi. This discount code will be valid until February 10, 2012.
Hay has an impressive competition record including individual and team medals at the 2010 and 2011 North American Junior Young Riders Championships, and multiple other top finishes at prestigious endurance events. He began riding in endurance competitions at the age of 12 and has accumulated over 2,800 miles, many of which were ridden on horses he owns and conditions.
Aside from his equestrian interests, Hay is a full-time student at Penn State University, where is pursuing a degree in environmental resource management.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Canada's Year-End standings
November 12 2011
Canada's Year-End Endurance Standings have been announced.
Senior Riders:
1. Elaine Steele - Ontario - 1006 points
2. Tom Paleczny - Ontario - 870 points
3. Christy Janzen - Alberta - 823 points
4. Colleen Devry - Alberta - 746 points
5. Kathy Irvine - Alberta - 722 points
6. Robert Gielen - Ontario - 712.5 points
7. Jaye Yavis - Alberta - 654 points
8. Elroy Karius - BC - 640 points
9. Sarah Chambers - Alberta - 575 points
10. Leanna Marchant - Alberta - 520 points
Junior Riders:
1. Jessica Yavis - Alberta - 415 points
2. Anya Levermann - BC - 250 points
2. Katya Levermann - BC - 250 points
3. Makayla Macleod - BC - 207 points
4. Shaelynn Spiker - Alberta - 150 points
5. Coletan Macleod - Alberta - 84 points
Horses:
1. Chanticleer Shadow - Steele - 1006 points
2. Nightwind's Indigo Bay - Devry - 746 points
3. Sakic - Janzen - 727 points
4. Nightwind's Savannah - Irvine - 722 points
5. Anam Cara - Chambers - 520 points
For complete standings see
http://www3.telus.net/tobytrot/html/yearend_cdn.htm
Canada's Year-End Endurance Standings have been announced.
Senior Riders:
1. Elaine Steele - Ontario - 1006 points
2. Tom Paleczny - Ontario - 870 points
3. Christy Janzen - Alberta - 823 points
4. Colleen Devry - Alberta - 746 points
5. Kathy Irvine - Alberta - 722 points
6. Robert Gielen - Ontario - 712.5 points
7. Jaye Yavis - Alberta - 654 points
8. Elroy Karius - BC - 640 points
9. Sarah Chambers - Alberta - 575 points
10. Leanna Marchant - Alberta - 520 points
Junior Riders:
1. Jessica Yavis - Alberta - 415 points
2. Anya Levermann - BC - 250 points
2. Katya Levermann - BC - 250 points
3. Makayla Macleod - BC - 207 points
4. Shaelynn Spiker - Alberta - 150 points
5. Coletan Macleod - Alberta - 84 points
Horses:
1. Chanticleer Shadow - Steele - 1006 points
2. Nightwind's Indigo Bay - Devry - 746 points
3. Sakic - Janzen - 727 points
4. Nightwind's Savannah - Irvine - 722 points
5. Anam Cara - Chambers - 520 points
For complete standings see
http://www3.telus.net/tobytrot/html/yearend_cdn.htm
2011 America's Favorite Equestrians - and the winners are . . .
USEF.org
Release: November 05 2011
Author: Equus Foundation and USEF
WESTPORT, CT - Jenny Belknap Kees, Chairman of the Board of The EQUUS Foundation and John Long, President of the United States Equestrian Federation, announced "America's Favorite Equestrians" for 2011representing the disciplines of Driving, Dressage, Endurance, Eventing, Jumping, Para-Dressage, Reining and Vaulting at their Victory Celebration on Friday, November 4, 2011, at the Alltech National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky.
The program was established by the two organizations to recognize the heroes in our equestrian sport and to build grass roots support within the equestrian community for the many worthy causes supported by The EQUUS Foundation on behalf of horse welfare and the people who benefit from the horse's unique ability to empower, teach and heal.
"One of the best actions we have taken in recent years is to partner with The EQUUS Foundation," said John Long. "We look forward to continuing to build our relationship in the future."
"We are very grateful to the thousands of equestrians who cast their votes with their $5 donations to The EQUUS Foundation," said Jenny Belknap Kees. America's Favorite Equestrians were selected based on the athletes with the highest number of votes recorded in each of the eight disciplines on October 31, 2011.
The inaugural 2011 program celebrated the eight international disciplines represented on the field of play at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, with the equestrians selected by the respective affiliates of the United States Equestrian Federation. The goal is for America's Favorite Equestrian to be an ongoing program with all equestrian disciplines and breeds represented and the winners recognized in a permanent Hall of Fame.
"It is our great pleasure to be able to announce the results at the Alltech National Horse Show," continued Belknap Kees, "and to support these disciplines with a $10,000 donation to the United States Equestrian Federation."
And, the winners for 2011 are . . .
Dressage
Guenter Seidel
Driving
Rochelle Temple
Endurance
Becky Hart
Eventing
Tiana Coudray
Jumping
Anne Kursinski
Para-Dressage
Jennifer Baker
Reining
Andrea Fappani
Vaulting
Katharine Wick
About The EQUUS Foundation, Inc. The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., established in August 2002, as a 501(c)(3) national charitable foundation, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, promoting the use of horses to enrich the lives of those in need, and educating the public about the horse's unique ability to empower, teach and heal.
Thanks to the generosity of its donors, The EQUUS Foundation helps thousands of people and horses each year. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, website: www.equusfoundation.org.
Release: November 05 2011
Author: Equus Foundation and USEF
WESTPORT, CT - Jenny Belknap Kees, Chairman of the Board of The EQUUS Foundation and John Long, President of the United States Equestrian Federation, announced "America's Favorite Equestrians" for 2011representing the disciplines of Driving, Dressage, Endurance, Eventing, Jumping, Para-Dressage, Reining and Vaulting at their Victory Celebration on Friday, November 4, 2011, at the Alltech National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky.
The program was established by the two organizations to recognize the heroes in our equestrian sport and to build grass roots support within the equestrian community for the many worthy causes supported by The EQUUS Foundation on behalf of horse welfare and the people who benefit from the horse's unique ability to empower, teach and heal.
"One of the best actions we have taken in recent years is to partner with The EQUUS Foundation," said John Long. "We look forward to continuing to build our relationship in the future."
"We are very grateful to the thousands of equestrians who cast their votes with their $5 donations to The EQUUS Foundation," said Jenny Belknap Kees. America's Favorite Equestrians were selected based on the athletes with the highest number of votes recorded in each of the eight disciplines on October 31, 2011.
The inaugural 2011 program celebrated the eight international disciplines represented on the field of play at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, with the equestrians selected by the respective affiliates of the United States Equestrian Federation. The goal is for America's Favorite Equestrian to be an ongoing program with all equestrian disciplines and breeds represented and the winners recognized in a permanent Hall of Fame.
"It is our great pleasure to be able to announce the results at the Alltech National Horse Show," continued Belknap Kees, "and to support these disciplines with a $10,000 donation to the United States Equestrian Federation."
And, the winners for 2011 are . . .
Dressage
Guenter Seidel
Driving
Rochelle Temple
Endurance
Becky Hart
Eventing
Tiana Coudray
Jumping
Anne Kursinski
Para-Dressage
Jennifer Baker
Reining
Andrea Fappani
Vaulting
Katharine Wick
About The EQUUS Foundation, Inc. The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., established in August 2002, as a 501(c)(3) national charitable foundation, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, promoting the use of horses to enrich the lives of those in need, and educating the public about the horse's unique ability to empower, teach and heal.
Thanks to the generosity of its donors, The EQUUS Foundation helps thousands of people and horses each year. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, website: www.equusfoundation.org.
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Trail Problem Solver
Learn how to handle barn-sour heavior, jigging, bolting and spooking on the trail.
By Micaela Myers
Traci Falcone, Heather Reynolds, and Hal Hall offer their tips on handling common hore behavioral problems
Recreational riding is America’s No.1 equestrian pastime. Nothing compares to exploring nature on horseback. But when you visualize yourself on the trail, a barn-sour, jigging, bolting, spooking horse probably isn’t part of the fantasy. These all-too-common bad habits have ruined many a trail ride: Don’t let yours be one of them. Find out why your horse may be acting up and how you can deal with these annoying and sometimes dangerous behaviors.
Why Do They Do That?
Horses don’t act up just to be naughty or to hurt us. Instead, there’s usually a valid reason behind a horse’s bad behavior: He may have too much pent up energy and need extra turnout or riding time; his tack may be pinching or hurting him because it doesn’t fit correctly or isn’t properly adjusted; he may be in poor health or receiving the wrong kind of diet, which your vet can help you remedy; he may need additional training so that he understands what you’re asking. Similarly, you may require additional instruction to improve your cues, and you may need to relax and act calmly in stressful situations to avoid escalating your horse’s behavior. Addressing these issues should be part of your overall strategy.
To help you tackle some of the most common problem trail behaviors—barn sour, jigging, bolting and spooking—three experienced endurance riders share how they handle these issues. An avid Parelli Natural Horsemanship student, Traci Falcone has completed more than 4,000 miles on endurance rides, including four Tevis Cup “100 Miles in One Day” rides; Heather Reynolds has won several Pan American Endurance Championship medals; and Hal Hall was inducted into the American Endurance Ride Conference Hall of Fame with many championship wins.
Because horses are individuals and no one approach will work on all horses, Falcone, Reynolds and Hall offer a variety of tactics for each of the four issues below. Find the approach that works best for your horse, and be consistent and patient as you work to overcome his issues.
Follow this link for specifics on:
tips on handling barn-sour behavior >>
tips on handling jigging >>
tips on handling bolting >>
tips on handling spooking >>
By Micaela Myers
Traci Falcone, Heather Reynolds, and Hal Hall offer their tips on handling common hore behavioral problemsRecreational riding is America’s No.1 equestrian pastime. Nothing compares to exploring nature on horseback. But when you visualize yourself on the trail, a barn-sour, jigging, bolting, spooking horse probably isn’t part of the fantasy. These all-too-common bad habits have ruined many a trail ride: Don’t let yours be one of them. Find out why your horse may be acting up and how you can deal with these annoying and sometimes dangerous behaviors.
Why Do They Do That?
Horses don’t act up just to be naughty or to hurt us. Instead, there’s usually a valid reason behind a horse’s bad behavior: He may have too much pent up energy and need extra turnout or riding time; his tack may be pinching or hurting him because it doesn’t fit correctly or isn’t properly adjusted; he may be in poor health or receiving the wrong kind of diet, which your vet can help you remedy; he may need additional training so that he understands what you’re asking. Similarly, you may require additional instruction to improve your cues, and you may need to relax and act calmly in stressful situations to avoid escalating your horse’s behavior. Addressing these issues should be part of your overall strategy.
To help you tackle some of the most common problem trail behaviors—barn sour, jigging, bolting and spooking—three experienced endurance riders share how they handle these issues. An avid Parelli Natural Horsemanship student, Traci Falcone has completed more than 4,000 miles on endurance rides, including four Tevis Cup “100 Miles in One Day” rides; Heather Reynolds has won several Pan American Endurance Championship medals; and Hal Hall was inducted into the American Endurance Ride Conference Hall of Fame with many championship wins.
Because horses are individuals and no one approach will work on all horses, Falcone, Reynolds and Hall offer a variety of tactics for each of the four issues below. Find the approach that works best for your horse, and be consistent and patient as you work to overcome his issues.
Follow this link for specifics on:
tips on handling barn-sour behavior >>
tips on handling jigging >>
tips on handling bolting >>
tips on handling spooking >>
Helping veterans with PTSD in a new way
KTVB.com - Full Article and video
by Dee Sarton
KTVB.COM
Posted on November 7, 2011 at 10:39 PM
Updated yesterday at 5:05 PM
BOISE -- Veterans Day. It is a day to honor those who have served our country in the military. But this year, a new report reveals shocking statistics about our all volunteer force.
From 2005 to 2010, military service members took their own lives at a rate of one every 36 hours. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates 18 veterans die by suicide every day.
To fight this tragic trend as more troops return home in the coming weeks, screening is being done to check for risk factors like posttraumatic stress disorder. Treatment options are increasing too.
Veterans need to know that research and experience are proving that new methods to treat PTSD are very effective and sometimes unconventional. An equine specialist in eastern Idaho has known that for years. She has been giving her time and her horses to veterans since 2007, discovering with them, the power of healing on horseback.
At Tranquil Valley Sanctuary, near Malad City in eastern Idaho, it is a brand new start for veterans with severe PTSD.
Donna Thibedeau's 21 horses are mostly rescues and that is how she describes the veterans who find their way here, "They fought for us, they gave up their life and their quality of life for us and we need to fight for them when they come home."
Donna is passionate about helping vets like Tyson Hunt who have been completely disabled by PTSD, a debilitating condition most of us cannot begin to understand...
Read more here:
http://www.ktvb.com/news/A-new-way-that-helps-veterans-with-PTSD-133416303.html
by Dee Sarton
KTVB.COM
Posted on November 7, 2011 at 10:39 PM
Updated yesterday at 5:05 PM
BOISE -- Veterans Day. It is a day to honor those who have served our country in the military. But this year, a new report reveals shocking statistics about our all volunteer force.
From 2005 to 2010, military service members took their own lives at a rate of one every 36 hours. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates 18 veterans die by suicide every day.
To fight this tragic trend as more troops return home in the coming weeks, screening is being done to check for risk factors like posttraumatic stress disorder. Treatment options are increasing too.
Veterans need to know that research and experience are proving that new methods to treat PTSD are very effective and sometimes unconventional. An equine specialist in eastern Idaho has known that for years. She has been giving her time and her horses to veterans since 2007, discovering with them, the power of healing on horseback.
At Tranquil Valley Sanctuary, near Malad City in eastern Idaho, it is a brand new start for veterans with severe PTSD.
Donna Thibedeau's 21 horses are mostly rescues and that is how she describes the veterans who find their way here, "They fought for us, they gave up their life and their quality of life for us and we need to fight for them when they come home."
Donna is passionate about helping vets like Tyson Hunt who have been completely disabled by PTSD, a debilitating condition most of us cannot begin to understand...
Read more here:
http://www.ktvb.com/news/A-new-way-that-helps-veterans-with-PTSD-133416303.html
Monday, November 07, 2011
Hydesville woman takes 1st place in horse endurance contest
Humboldtbeacon.com
Humboldt Beacon
Posted: 11/03/2011
Joyce Sousa of Hydesville riding her Arabian horse LV Integrity rode to a first place finish at the Ride Bear 50 mile endurance race in Gilroy on Oct. 2 and then returned to Silver Springs, Nevada on Oct. 15 at the High Desert 50 mile race and placed first against 39 other riders in a time of 5 hours and 29 minutes. LV Integrity also was judged to receive the Best Condition award.
The following day, the pair raced to a 3rd place finish in the 50 mile competition. LV Integrity in June raced his 31st 100 mile ride in Oregon and placed 2nd.
Humboldt Beacon
Posted: 11/03/2011
Joyce Sousa of Hydesville riding her Arabian horse LV Integrity rode to a first place finish at the Ride Bear 50 mile endurance race in Gilroy on Oct. 2 and then returned to Silver Springs, Nevada on Oct. 15 at the High Desert 50 mile race and placed first against 39 other riders in a time of 5 hours and 29 minutes. LV Integrity also was judged to receive the Best Condition award.
The following day, the pair raced to a 3rd place finish in the 50 mile competition. LV Integrity in June raced his 31st 100 mile ride in Oregon and placed 2nd.
Friday, November 04, 2011
Federal Government Offers Wild Horses, Burros for Adoption Tomorrow
by Erica Peterson on November 4, 2011
Due to overpopulation, there are more wild horses in captivity in the United States than there are running wild. The federal Bureau of Land Management is hoping to unload horses and burros and will offer them for adoption tomorrow at the Gatewood Arena in Dry Ridge. Info at http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/whbprogram/adoption_program/schedule.html
There will be about 30 animals available for adoption—several burros, mares, geldings and yearlings. The animals are wild, and were taken from herds that roam ten western states.
Wild horses and burros are protected in America, but the herds are growing out of control. To avoid environmental destruction, the federal Bureau of Land Management routinely moves the animals to holding facilities to await adoption. The wild horses and burros in these facilities—41,000—now outnumber the more than 38,000 roaming wild.
Tom Gorey is a spokesman for the Bureau of Land Management.
“To protect the resources on the land, including wildlife habitat we need to round up several thousand every year,” he said. “And unfortunately, the public demand for wild horses and burros has declined.”
Gorey says though the animals are wild, they can be trained.
“People who adopt a mustang generally have a very good experience. They recognize that the horse is intelligent, sure-footed and has good endurance capacities,” he said.
Prospective owners need to have an appropriate place to keep a horse, and demonstrate knowledge of the time and money needed to care for the animal. The animals aren’t domesticated, so prospective owners also need to realize the work associated with training a horse. The adoption fee is $125.
The animals can be previewed today from 2 to 7 pm. The adoption is first come, first served on Saturday.
Due to overpopulation, there are more wild horses in captivity in the United States than there are running wild. The federal Bureau of Land Management is hoping to unload horses and burros and will offer them for adoption tomorrow at the Gatewood Arena in Dry Ridge. Info at http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/prog/whbprogram/adoption_program/schedule.htmlThere will be about 30 animals available for adoption—several burros, mares, geldings and yearlings. The animals are wild, and were taken from herds that roam ten western states.
Wild horses and burros are protected in America, but the herds are growing out of control. To avoid environmental destruction, the federal Bureau of Land Management routinely moves the animals to holding facilities to await adoption. The wild horses and burros in these facilities—41,000—now outnumber the more than 38,000 roaming wild.
Tom Gorey is a spokesman for the Bureau of Land Management.
“To protect the resources on the land, including wildlife habitat we need to round up several thousand every year,” he said. “And unfortunately, the public demand for wild horses and burros has declined.”
Gorey says though the animals are wild, they can be trained.
“People who adopt a mustang generally have a very good experience. They recognize that the horse is intelligent, sure-footed and has good endurance capacities,” he said.
Prospective owners need to have an appropriate place to keep a horse, and demonstrate knowledge of the time and money needed to care for the animal. The animals aren’t domesticated, so prospective owners also need to realize the work associated with training a horse. The adoption fee is $125.
The animals can be previewed today from 2 to 7 pm. The adoption is first come, first served on Saturday.
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Cross-country on horseback: an Oklahoma man’s journey
Tehachapinews.com - Full Article
Tuesday, Nov 01 2011
By Ed Gordon, Staff Writer
Twenty–four year old Luke Nowlin set out on June 8 from Emerald, North Carolina, to cross the country to Eureka, on the Northern California coast, on horseback. He arrived at the Chadeau Mountain Clydesdale Ranch in Tehachapi the afternoon of Thursday, Oct. 27.
Chuck Lewter was returning from the Worlds Clydesdale Show in Wisconsin and got a call from a friend who told him about, “Hey there’s this guy riding across the country and he needs a place to stay every night, he’ll be in Boron tonight, Mojave the next night and can he stay at your place on Thursday night?”
Lewter replied, “Yeah, we’ll be home send him here.”
That’s how Nowlin ended up in Tehachapi at the Chadeau Mountain Ranch.
Nowlin depends on the kindness of others for shelter for himself and his horse. He's fully prepared to sleep outdoors, on the ground with the sky for a roof if he has to, but he's only had to do that on few occasions. Some nights he stayed with people who were living in trailer houses, the floor was rotted out they didn’t have anything to eat because it was the 28th of the month and food stamps don’t come till the 30th. The rest he's spent in the guest bedrooms in strangers' homes or in barns and he even spent a few days at the Biltmore Mansion in Asheville, North Carolina.
“It’s really interesting about his journey,” Lewter said. “There’s nothing really set, it just seems like it’s just kind of a day-to-day thing. [He goes] wherever he can find a place to put his horse up for the night and find some hay and some grub.”
Nowlin has averaged about 25-30 miles per day during his journey...
Read more here:
http://www.tehachapinews.com/lifestyle/x1763723927/Cross-country-on-horseback-an-Oklahoma-man-s-journey
Tuesday, Nov 01 2011
By Ed Gordon, Staff Writer
Twenty–four year old Luke Nowlin set out on June 8 from Emerald, North Carolina, to cross the country to Eureka, on the Northern California coast, on horseback. He arrived at the Chadeau Mountain Clydesdale Ranch in Tehachapi the afternoon of Thursday, Oct. 27.
Chuck Lewter was returning from the Worlds Clydesdale Show in Wisconsin and got a call from a friend who told him about, “Hey there’s this guy riding across the country and he needs a place to stay every night, he’ll be in Boron tonight, Mojave the next night and can he stay at your place on Thursday night?”
Lewter replied, “Yeah, we’ll be home send him here.”
That’s how Nowlin ended up in Tehachapi at the Chadeau Mountain Ranch.
Nowlin depends on the kindness of others for shelter for himself and his horse. He's fully prepared to sleep outdoors, on the ground with the sky for a roof if he has to, but he's only had to do that on few occasions. Some nights he stayed with people who were living in trailer houses, the floor was rotted out they didn’t have anything to eat because it was the 28th of the month and food stamps don’t come till the 30th. The rest he's spent in the guest bedrooms in strangers' homes or in barns and he even spent a few days at the Biltmore Mansion in Asheville, North Carolina.
“It’s really interesting about his journey,” Lewter said. “There’s nothing really set, it just seems like it’s just kind of a day-to-day thing. [He goes] wherever he can find a place to put his horse up for the night and find some hay and some grub.”
Nowlin has averaged about 25-30 miles per day during his journey...
Read more here:
http://www.tehachapinews.com/lifestyle/x1763723927/Cross-country-on-horseback-an-Oklahoma-man-s-journey
Back Country Horsemen of America Gets the Job Done
October 31, 2011
Contact: Peg Greiwe, BCHA
1-888-893-5161
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
Of all the trails advocacy organizations in the United States, Back Country Horsemen of America has become one of the largest contributors of volunteer service. In 2010, they gave 345,000 hours of volunteer service with a value of over $7,500,000. Considering today’s economy, that’s quite an accomplishment.
What exactly do Back Country Horsemen do during all those volunteer hours? From clearing trails and hauling gravel for improving campsites, teaching folks responsible recreation habits and how to pack, improving water crossings and building camping facilities, there’s plenty to get done. BCH people even do some things you’ve probably never thought of!
Transporting Fish?
Back Country Horsemen are always eager to show how useful pack stock can be, especially in remote and protected areas where motorized vehicles are impracticable or would damage a delicate ecosystem. The Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee is reestablishing the Southern Brook Trout Hatchery at Pheasant Fields in the Tellico Ranger District. The rebirth of the hatchery is part of a larger brook trout restoration program that has the support and the horsepower of the Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen behind it.
Late last year, a coalition of the Cherokee National Forest, Southern
Appalachian Back Country Horsemen, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Trout Unlimited and Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards came together to conduct a trial run of one important element of the Brook Trout Restoration Program: transportation.
The test was a big success. Using pack stock provided by members of Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen, 140 rainbow trout were moved two miles with a 100% survival rate for the fish. This test was critical to determine the viability of using horses and mules for transportation, as many of the habitats and locations for restoration are isolated or in federally designated Wilderness Areas.
In the future, pack stock will be used to transport brook trout from existing population centers to the reopened Fish Hatchery just before spawn. The offspring of this breeding cycle will become the foundation of future population restoration efforts. Back Country Horsemen members will be called back into action when the time comes to transport these offspring to their new habitats, returning native brook trout to their historic rivers and tributaries.
Promoting Safety
Head injuries account for approximately 60 percent of deaths resulting from equestrian accidents. Because horse racing organizations require approved helmets, jockeys now suffer fewer head injuries than pleasure riders. Despite those facts, some people remain averse to wearing helmets when riding, especially those who ride western. Wyoming Back Country Horsemen put a priority on changing that.
WBCH volunteered their time to raise the funding to buy fifty helmets in various sizes to create a “lending library” of helmets. People will be able to check out one or more helmets when they need one for a short time, such as when members have visiting children who want to ride. Wyoming Back Country Horsemen especially targeted young people, hoping that the helmet-wearing habit will continue into adulthood.
In addition to the helmets, they volunteered their time to acquire funding for professionally made safety posters aimed at horsemen. Young Cloud Peak BCH member Mariah McFaul modeled for the safety poster. She posed with her horse putting on her helmet and as a wounded horsewoman. The posters will be displayed in schools, hospitals, and other appropriate places.
Keeping Trails Open for Everyone
Each year, volunteers from the Gila Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico clear many miles of forest trails to keep trails open to equestrians and other recreational users. Over the last four years, the Gila Chapter has cleared over 260 miles of trails.
Even though the snow caused them a late start, they still cleared 50 miles of trails in 2010. GBCH trail work has taken place primarily in the Silver City District and the Wilderness District of the Gila National Forest. Trails cleared have included parts of the Continental Divide Trail, trails along the Mimbres River in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and several other popular recreation trails. To accomplish this work, they put in 777 accident-free volunteer hours and 119 stock use days.
In 2010 their most ambitious project was opening trails along the Mimbres River. From June 30 to May 3, volunteers camped at the Mimbres River Trailhead and cleared the first seven miles of the main trail. Weather added to the challenges; on May 2, they rode out in a snowstorm. By the time it stopped, there were four inches of snow on the ground.
The second project to clear Mimbres River Trails took place May 7-13. GBCH volunteers along with the Wilderness District Trail Foreman packed in 600 pounds of horse feed for the upcoming work. They then rode horses and packed camp equipment and food into the camp spot near the forks of the Mimbres River.
On May 9, clearing work began. The group worked on the lower portion of the Middle Fork Trail and the South Fork Trail for the next four days. By the time the group packed out to go home on the 13th, over 100 trees had been cut with crosscut saws or moved from the trails and another four miles were clear. This trail had not been cleared in over four years, so downed trees had entirely blocked the trail.
The efforts of the Gila Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico resulted in the completion of the South Fork Mimbres River Trail and completion of the North Fork Mimbres River Trail (an additional seven miles).
About Back Country Horsemen of America
Obviously, BCHA folks understand the value of hard work. Protecting our right to ride isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a responsibility that requires action in a variety of forms. Back Country Horsemen of America is proud to live up to that and get the job done.
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in the wilderness and public lands.
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!
Contact: Peg Greiwe, BCHA
1-888-893-5161
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
Of all the trails advocacy organizations in the United States, Back Country Horsemen of America has become one of the largest contributors of volunteer service. In 2010, they gave 345,000 hours of volunteer service with a value of over $7,500,000. Considering today’s economy, that’s quite an accomplishment.
What exactly do Back Country Horsemen do during all those volunteer hours? From clearing trails and hauling gravel for improving campsites, teaching folks responsible recreation habits and how to pack, improving water crossings and building camping facilities, there’s plenty to get done. BCH people even do some things you’ve probably never thought of!
Transporting Fish?
Back Country Horsemen are always eager to show how useful pack stock can be, especially in remote and protected areas where motorized vehicles are impracticable or would damage a delicate ecosystem. The Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee is reestablishing the Southern Brook Trout Hatchery at Pheasant Fields in the Tellico Ranger District. The rebirth of the hatchery is part of a larger brook trout restoration program that has the support and the horsepower of the Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen behind it.
Late last year, a coalition of the Cherokee National Forest, Southern
Appalachian Back Country Horsemen, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Trout Unlimited and Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards came together to conduct a trial run of one important element of the Brook Trout Restoration Program: transportation.
The test was a big success. Using pack stock provided by members of Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen, 140 rainbow trout were moved two miles with a 100% survival rate for the fish. This test was critical to determine the viability of using horses and mules for transportation, as many of the habitats and locations for restoration are isolated or in federally designated Wilderness Areas.
In the future, pack stock will be used to transport brook trout from existing population centers to the reopened Fish Hatchery just before spawn. The offspring of this breeding cycle will become the foundation of future population restoration efforts. Back Country Horsemen members will be called back into action when the time comes to transport these offspring to their new habitats, returning native brook trout to their historic rivers and tributaries.
Promoting Safety
Head injuries account for approximately 60 percent of deaths resulting from equestrian accidents. Because horse racing organizations require approved helmets, jockeys now suffer fewer head injuries than pleasure riders. Despite those facts, some people remain averse to wearing helmets when riding, especially those who ride western. Wyoming Back Country Horsemen put a priority on changing that.
WBCH volunteered their time to raise the funding to buy fifty helmets in various sizes to create a “lending library” of helmets. People will be able to check out one or more helmets when they need one for a short time, such as when members have visiting children who want to ride. Wyoming Back Country Horsemen especially targeted young people, hoping that the helmet-wearing habit will continue into adulthood.
In addition to the helmets, they volunteered their time to acquire funding for professionally made safety posters aimed at horsemen. Young Cloud Peak BCH member Mariah McFaul modeled for the safety poster. She posed with her horse putting on her helmet and as a wounded horsewoman. The posters will be displayed in schools, hospitals, and other appropriate places.
Keeping Trails Open for Everyone
Each year, volunteers from the Gila Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico clear many miles of forest trails to keep trails open to equestrians and other recreational users. Over the last four years, the Gila Chapter has cleared over 260 miles of trails.
Even though the snow caused them a late start, they still cleared 50 miles of trails in 2010. GBCH trail work has taken place primarily in the Silver City District and the Wilderness District of the Gila National Forest. Trails cleared have included parts of the Continental Divide Trail, trails along the Mimbres River in the Aldo Leopold Wilderness and several other popular recreation trails. To accomplish this work, they put in 777 accident-free volunteer hours and 119 stock use days.
In 2010 their most ambitious project was opening trails along the Mimbres River. From June 30 to May 3, volunteers camped at the Mimbres River Trailhead and cleared the first seven miles of the main trail. Weather added to the challenges; on May 2, they rode out in a snowstorm. By the time it stopped, there were four inches of snow on the ground.
The second project to clear Mimbres River Trails took place May 7-13. GBCH volunteers along with the Wilderness District Trail Foreman packed in 600 pounds of horse feed for the upcoming work. They then rode horses and packed camp equipment and food into the camp spot near the forks of the Mimbres River.
On May 9, clearing work began. The group worked on the lower portion of the Middle Fork Trail and the South Fork Trail for the next four days. By the time the group packed out to go home on the 13th, over 100 trees had been cut with crosscut saws or moved from the trails and another four miles were clear. This trail had not been cleared in over four years, so downed trees had entirely blocked the trail.
The efforts of the Gila Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of New Mexico resulted in the completion of the South Fork Mimbres River Trail and completion of the North Fork Mimbres River Trail (an additional seven miles).
About Back Country Horsemen of America
Obviously, BCHA folks understand the value of hard work. Protecting our right to ride isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a responsibility that requires action in a variety of forms. Back Country Horsemen of America is proud to live up to that and get the job done.
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in the wilderness and public lands.
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!
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