Whiting: He's Such a Horse's Brain

OCRegister.com - Full Article

BY DAVID WHITING
COLUMNIST
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
dwhiting@ocregister.com

Windy runs under me as we jet up rocky, rutted hills so steep no 600-pound animal should be able to walk them, let alone fly.

The sweat on the horse's red-brown coat glistens like dew in the sun. Her massive lungs work in conjunction with her powerful legs. Hooves find footing where – seemingly – there is no solid ground.

We crest the hill. Massive boulders narrow the trail to a foot. On two legs, it would take all my concentration to avoid a stumble. With four legs churning, Windy twists one way and the other. At the same time.

She clears the passage.

I'm in the middle of a race called "Ride and Tie." Teams of two people and one horse make their way through rugged backcountry, the humans tying horses to bushes or trees and trading off on riding and running.

My only goal is not to kill anyone, including Windy and myself.

Only four weeks ago, riding like this was sheer terror. On this day, it is a harmonic convergence of human and horse...

See photos and read more here:
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/-293507--.html

Endurance Horse Ride Returns to Whiskeytown

Anewscafe.com - Full Article

By Paul Shigley March 24, 2011

The Whiskeytown Chaser endurance ride is scheduled to return on April 9 with new event organizers and courses.

The long-distance equestrian event has evolved a great deal over the past two decades. It has earned a reputation as a great early season training ride for the prestigious Tevis Cup 100-mile ride over the Sierra Nevada, and as a difficult ride in its own right.

After the Chaser was canceled last year, longtime participants Jennifer Powell and Kris Wright took over as organizers from Bonnie Sterling, who successfully managed the event for years. Powell and Wright are trying to pump new enthusiasm into the 50- and 25-mile rides, and they have modified the courses considerably with the inclusion of 11 miles of trail in the Bureau of Land Management’s Swasey recreation area, which lies adjacent to Whiskeytown...

Read more here:
http://anewscafe.com/2011/03/24/endurance-horse-ride-returns-to-whiskeytown/

ACTH Announces New Reality Series With HRTV

13 One-Hour Shows Allows America to Vote for Their Favorite Trail Horse

Dateline -- The American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) announced today an agreement reached with HRTV® to air a new reality series -- "America’s Favorite Trail Horse." HRTV, The Network for Horse Sports, will air the series beginning in mid-summer of 2011 and complete it with final votes in and awards made before year's end.

Karen VanGetson, co-founder of ACTHA stated, "We couldn’t be more thrilled. To have HRTV viewers everywhere enjoy these great unsung heroes is what it’s all about for us. As more and more see the fun we have on trail, more and more horses will get adopted from the rescue holding areas. We hope to give all horses back their rightful jobs and value…this is a great start!"

"This is a natural for us at HRTV, where our commitment to ‘horse sports’ is unparalleled," said Jim Bates, Executive Vice President and General Manager, for HRTV. "We have seen ACTHA’s explosive growth and when we learned about this opportunity we quickly pursued it. We hope we can use our platform to bring recognition and enjoyment of the Great American Trail Horse."

About the series…"America’s Favorite Trail Horse" will feature 100 finalists after more than 1,000 audition throughout the USA from April 9-23. At the auditions, horse and rider will be asked to complete four basic trail maneuvers and have the elective of a fifth element to freestyle any particular skill set of their horse as it relates to trail.

Conducted in Texas, the 100 finalists will be showing off for the cameras and waiting for America to vote. Over the 13 weeks, $100,000 will be awarded to America’s Favorite Trail Horses.

For further information, please go to www.actha.us for full details.

About HRTV
HRTV is a 24-hour, television-based multimedia network dedicated to horseracing which features racing action from the world’s greatest racetracks. HRTV also features other forms of equestrian competition, as well as original programming and award-winning documentaries covering a variety of racing and general equestrian topics. The live stream of HRTV is available on a subscription basis to high-speed Internet users worldwide at www.hrtvlive.com. The HRTV television network is presently available via cable, telco video and satellite in approximately 19 million U.S. homes through distribution partners including DISH Network (ch. 404), AT&T U-verse (ch.672), Verizon FiOS (ch.316) and a variety of cable outlets.

　　

ACTHA thanks its many sponsors and thousands of members and affiliates for making this possible and for believing in ACTHA and the Cause. Our special thanks to Cavallo Horse and Rider for co-sponsoring the show with ACTHA.

Our mission...

To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve.

To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction.

To create and enable humane treatment options for horses in need.

Endurance Riders Hold Equine Dynamics Clinic in Idaho

March 20 2011

An Equine Dynamics Clinic will be held on the Zapped Ranch in Parma, Idaho on Saturday April 2 from 8:30 - 5 PM, to educate riders on maintaining the balanced athlete.

Featured clinicians are Naomi Preston, TTeam Practitioner, and Karen Bumgarner, Certified ESMT. Both are experienced endurance riders, with Naomi having logged over 9700 miles, many of those with her 2001 AERC Hall of Fame horse, Mustang Lady, and Karen Bumgarner, with over 21,000 endurance miles.

"The program includes painted horse for 'muscle in motion' visual aid - you will never look at a horse the same again. Lots of hands on practice will be available," says Karen Bumgarner. "We also have added a second day of Connected Riding by Naomi Preston (www.tteamforendurance.com), limited to 10 riders."

Naomi Preston, a TTEAM Practioner since 1990, says the non-invasive techniques she will be teaching can keep your horse at the top of his game. TTEAM, The Tellington-Ttouch Method, is a horse training approach that encourages optimum performance and health, as well as offering solutions to common physical and behavioral problems.

A few benefits of massage:
*Enhance muscle tone and range of motion.
*Reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints, thereby alleviating pain.
*Promote the healing process by increasing the flow of nutrients to the muscles, and aiding in carrying away excessive fluids and toxins.
*Creates a positive effect on the contractual and release process of the muscles...releasing tension...relaxing muscles.
*Helps to maintain the whole body in better physical condition.

Why TTEAM for your Endurance/Performance Horse?

*TTEAM is useful in all aspects of working with your endurance horse, from training to competition.
*Improve your horse's self-carriage & hindquarter engagement
*Increase range of motion & stride length
*Improve coordination & balance
*Discover sore or sensitive areas
*Speed recovery from injuries
*Overcome fear or resistance

On Day 2, Naomi will teach an Introduction to Connected Riding, developed by Peggy Cummings. "I will teach the balanced seat, as well as techniques for engaging the horse's hindquarters," says Naomi, "and the 'power leg,' which helps to provide a more stable seat."

Register by March 26 - $75/day or $125 total for both days, by email with Karen at zap6000@gmail.com or with Naomi at mustanglady80@gmail.com . Send payment to Karen Bumgarner, 26111 Doi Lane, Parma, ID 83660

If you are from out of the area and need overnight facilities please let Naomi or Karen know.

For more information on this clinic, or if you are interested in holding a clinic in your area, contact Karen at zap6000@gmail.com or with Naomi at mustanglady80@gmail.com

2011 Foxcatcher Endurance Ride and Ride N Tie

March 20 2011

The 2011 Foxcatcher 25 and 50 mile Endurance Rides will be held April 16 at Fair Hill Natural Resources Center in Elkton, Maryland.

The ride is AERC, ECTRA, and AHA sanctioned. Entries may be limited to 100 riders, so enter early. The ride is held on state property. Terrain is rolling hills, gravel/dirt roads, and numerous water crossings.

In conjunction with the 25 and 50 mile endurance rides, a 25 mile and 10 mile Ride and Tie will be held.

Entries and more information can be found at
http://www.fairhillinternational.com/foxcatcher/, or contact Ride Manager Barbara Bateman at bbbbateman@comcast.net , or secretary Louisa Emerick at LouisaEm@comcast.net .

Tevis Trail March 19 Work Day Cancelled

Friday March 18 2011

Western States Trail Joint Management Team

Due to the past week's rains and predicted storms for tomorrow and the weekend, we have reluctantly decided to cancel Saturday's WS trail work day.  The trails and access roads in the Foresthill area are already saturated and muddy and creeks will be running very high, with predicted localized flooding.

Please look for an upcoming e-mail announcing a rescheduled trail day in April.  Also, don't forget our next scheduled work day on April 30.

Event #4
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Project: Deadwood to Michigan Bluff
 
Meet: 8:30 am - Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop.  Main Street at Gold Street (near Subway Sandwich Shop) off Foresthill Road
in Foresthill.
 
Directions: From I-80, take the Foresthill Exit in Auburn. Head East on Foresthill Road - 18 miles to Foresthill.  Continue past Mosquito Ridge Road.  Coffee Shop is on right.
 
Please RSVP by April 23 to trails@ws100.com
 
This is the final event that can be applied to 2011 Run volunteer requirement.
Event #5
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Project: Dusty Corners to Devil's Thumb
 
Meet: 8:30 am - Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop.  Main Street at Gold Street (near Subway Sandwich Shop) off Foresthill Road in Foresthill.
 
Directions: From I-80, take Foresthill Exit in Auburn. Head East on Foresthill Road - 18 miles to Foresthill. Continue past Mosquito Ridge Road.  Coffee Shop is on the right.
 
 
Please RSVP by May 7 to trails@ws100.com
 
 
This event can be applied to 2012 Run volunteer requirement.
  
Event #6
Friday and Saturday, June 17-18, 2011
Project: High Country 
 
Weekend Campout, Robinson Flat Campground 
  
Meet: Friday afternoon arrival
 
 
Directions: From I-80, take the Foresthill Exit in Auburn.  Head East on Foresthill Road - 38 miles to the Robinson Flat Campground
 
   
Bring: Camping gear
 
 
Please RSVP by June 10 to trails@ws100.com
 

Thank you, 
 
Donn Zea                         
WS Trail Manager    
           
Mike Shackelford
Tevis Trail Manager

Emerging Issues in Equine Land Protection

Discoverhorses.com - Full Article

By: Deb Balliet, CEO Equestrian Land Conservation Resource

Just outside of Boston (MA), neighbors challenged a property owner’s plans to build a private, 22-stall training stable with an indoor arena and paddocks. They alleged the plans would jeopardize the public water supply, adjacent conservation land, and present a significant fire hazard to the neighborhood. The neighbors were vocal, well-funded and “lawyered up.”

The property owner spent in excess of $70,000 to defend their plans. At this writing, the facility was approved by the Conservation Commission, Planning Board and Board of Health but with over 76 special conditions to be met, including a sprinkler system with an estimated cost of $100,000 for the barn. Many of the conditions are onerous and costly; some are conflicting.

This situation is not as rare as you would expect.

An Increasingly Urban Citizenry

Increasingly, the roots of our fellow citizens are urban or suburban, not rural. People are fearful of horses because of their size, a lack of information, and unfamiliarity with the animal. These fears include the spread of disease and physical harm. However, in some cases, they are not actually afraid; they are exploiting and exaggerating isolated negative events in typical “Not In My Backyard” (NIMBY) behavior. NIMBY is often simple reluctance to accept change and an attempt to maintain the status quo in a community by manipulating individuals through fear. NIMBY is usually encountered in planning for projects such as hazardous waste facilities or “halfway” houses. However, we are finding that equestrian facilities fall in the same category as these other projects as horses and their environment is more distant and less familiar to most people.

Education is part of the solution...

Read more here:
http://www.discoverhorses.com/emerging-issues-equine-land-protection.html

Salt Squares - Skode's Horse Treats. Press release.

The premiere of the world’s first equine “Salt Square” now ensures that horses can receive their daily doses of salt in the form of highly palatable, no-fuss treat.

Created by the specialty low sugar/starch company, Skode’s Horse Treats, a serving size of these whole-food based nutrition bars delivers a full tablespoon of the critical electrolyte, sodium chloride.

When exercised intensely in hot, humid weather, a horse may lose up to four gallons of sweat per hour, according to recent research. In those four gallons, a total of 30 teaspoons of body salts may be lost.

“Many horse care providers struggle with making sure their horses – especially hard working horses -- consume enough salt,” says Lori Yearwood, president of Skode’s. “Now there is a healthy, easy way to do just that.”

Formulated in conjunction with Equine Naturopath and Master Herbalist Cassie Schuster of Texas, Skode’s “Salt Squares” are made from a guaranteed low sugar and starch combination of 100 percent natural, human-grade whole foods and Certified Organic herbs. They are then topped with a salt crust made of ancient, mineral-rich sea salt.

“I took the “Salt Squares” to the barn to feed Elvis,” says horse owner Betsy Novotny of Maryland. “He says they’re ‘Lip smackin’ good!’ ”
To learn more, visit Skode’s website at: www.skodeshorsetreats.com

Contact: Lori Teresa Yearwood For Immediate Release
Company Phone: 951 572-0709
Cell Phone: 951-722-0508

Equine insulin doping control: detection of different insulin species for new test

Insulin doping
Spectroscopy Now journal

With the 2012 Olympic Games on the horizon, the thoughts of the administrators will be turning to drug testing, in an attempt to ensure that all medals are won on a fair and equal footing. This seems to become more difficult year-on-year, with the illicit use of peptides and proteins adding to the burden of the testing labs.

One of the more popular performance enhancers is the hormone insulin, a small protein which can increase muscle size and improve endurance. Insulins have been banned by the IOC and WADA for more than ten years.

The effects of insulin are the same in horses as in humans, with the result that insulin has also been banned by the international horseracing authorities. However, policing the ban is no trivial matter. There are no equine insulin products on the market so those unscrupulous operators have to resort to insulin from other species.

There are some human insulin analogues, such as Humalog and Novolog, which are attractive to the doper because they are fast-acting and are excreted rapidly. Bovine and porcine insulin are also doping candidates, because they are structurally very similar to equine insulin with only 1-3 amino acid residues different. The Hong Kong Jockey Club are very active in equine doping research and scientists there recently published a method for the detection of insulin analogues in equine plasma. Now, they have developed a parallel procedure for insulins in equine urine, the most common biological matrix used for doping research.

The method, published by Emmie Ho, Terence Wan, April Wong, Kenneth Lam and Brian Stewart, is the first reported for the analysis of human or animal urine for foreign insulins following covert administration.
Insulins from different species distinguished by MS

The team selected five insulins for analysis, as well as endogenous equine insulin. Human, porcine and bovine insulin were included, along with Humalog and Novolog, all of which differ from equine insulin by up to four amino acid residues at the most.

Equine urine was spiked with a mixture of the five exogenous insulins which were subsequently isolated by immunoaffinity purification, using anti-human insulin antibodies bound to magnetic beads. Following elution from the beads, they were analysed intact by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry using electrospray ionisation.

For speed of analysis and to reduce possible losses during processing, the researchers chose not to employ enzymatic digestion, or even reduction of the two disulphide bonds which link the A and B peptide chains of insulin. As it happened, the retention times and tandem mass spectra showed sufficient variations to allow the six insulins to be differentiated, even though they are structurally very closely related.

All six insulins eluted within 31-33 minutes. The multicharged molecules at [M+5H]5+ were chosen for fragmentation and every insulin produced a common product ion at m/z 136.3, corresponding to the same tyrosine immonium ion. These transitions were selected for screening, with several other characteristic transitions plus the retention times used for unambiguous identification of each insulin.

Human insulin and Humalog have identical molecular masses, the only structural differences being the switching of lysine and proline residues between two adjacent positions in chain B. Nevertheless, they were distinguished due to different retention times and markedly different product-ion spectra.

The detection limits of the technique were around 8.6 fmol/µL, which is equivalent to less than 0.05 ng/mL.

The method was used to screen equine urine following the administration of human insulin, at a dose equivalent to that typically used by human abusers. Even at this low level (10 IU), it was clearly detected and confirmed, illustrating the applicability of the method.

The researchers also carried out some metabolic studies of the five exogenous insulins in horse liver microsomes. All of the metabolites identified corresponded to compounds with intact disulphide bonds and truncated B chains of various lengths.

The immuoaffinity extraction procedure succeeded in trapping all of the metabolites, so they all constitute additional potential targets for screening methods. However, with the low insulin dose used in these studies, the metabolites could not be detected.

Any doping of horses with insulin will have to use products from other species, as there are no equine insulin preparations. This research is the first published report that exogenous insulin can be detected in equine urine following administration and demonstrates that urine testing would be an appropriate route for insulin doping tests in horses.

Robin Hood - American Mustang

A 2010 BLM newsletter, but worth reading again. posted by Steph Teeter, Endurance.Net:

BLM newsletter - full article
America's wild horses have long been praised by their owners for their toughness, intelligence and endurance.

Now, two Northern California wild horses, and their owners and riders, have received national recognition from the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the National Wild Horse and Burro Foundation for their excellence in endurance competition.

"Sir Kai" and Ray Bailey"BLM 2003 Endurance Wild Horse of the Year" awards were presented to Lincoln resident Ray Bailey and his horse "Sir Kai," and to Santa Cruz resident Dr. Philip Ottinger and his mount, "Robin Hood." Additionally, AERC honored Dr. Ottinger and Robin Hood for finishing first in the organization's West Region Featherweight Division in 2003.

The honors were presented Saturday, Feb. 28, during the American Endurance Ride Conference's annual awards banquet held in Reno.

Dr. Ottinger said time, patience and understanding in training have been the keys to his success in using wild horses in endurance competition.

"Once a wild horse connects with you, there is nothing he won't do for you," Ottinger said. "You have to take the time to understand how he thinks and to understand his physiology. You have to be open and clear about what you want."

Robin Hood, owned by Dr. Ottinger and currently ridden by Lincoln veterinarian Dr. Vicki Giles, was honored in the AERC's featherweight division. Dr. Ottinger adopted Robin Hood from the BLM in 1993, when he was just a yearling. Robin Hood finished 46th in his first endurance race in 1996. The following spring, he placed 10th in the 50-mile "Shine and Shine Only" race, and has continued to excel since then.

"Robin Hood" and Vicki GilesAs of this February, Robin Hood has completed nearly 4,000 miles in endurance ride competition and placed in the top 10 in the majority of 78 endurance rides. He has received 14 "Best Condition" awards. Ridden by Dr. Giles, he ended the 2003 competition season as points champion in the AERC West Region Featherweight Division.

Sir Kai, currently ridden by Lincoln's Ray Bailey, also was originally adopted by Dr. Ottinger. Bailey acquired the titled three-year-old from Dr. Ottinger in 1997. Sir Kai placed ninth in his first limited-distance ride, the "Death Valley 25," in 1999. He followed that performance with a third place and best condition award in the Lake Oroville Vista LD ride. During the 2003 AERC National Championship Ride, Sir Kai and Bailey placed first in the heavyweight division of the 50-mile ride.

They placed eighth in their first 100-mile ride this February. Sir Kai has now completed more than 1,300 miles in endurance competition.

The BLM, AERC and the National Wild Horse Foundation joined as partners this year to sponsor endurance awards for wild horses.

The BLM is the federal agency responsible for managing wild horse and burro herds on public lands. Some wild horses are periodically removed from the range to control wild populations, and are made available for adoption by the public.

Supporting the adoption program is the National Wild Horse and Burro Foundation, a private, non-profit organization. It helps the BLM with promotion of the adoption program, to increase successful placement of wild horses in adoptive homes.

The AERC is the official sanctioning body for horse endurance competition in the United States.

The Pacific Crest Endurance Ride near Ashland, Oregon in August

NWHorsesource.com

The Pacific Crest Endurance Ride will be held August 27 at Lily Glen Horse Camp near Ashland, OR

CONTACT:
Diana Aldridge
1551 Wagon Trail Drive
Jacksonville, OR 97530
(541) 899-8351

diana.aldridge1551@gmail.com

http://www.doublejoy.com/erol/Calendar/RideDetails.asp?rideID=5342

The Rogue Riders endurance club's annual Pacific Crest Endurance Ride will be held on August 27.

The event features a 50 mile and a 25 mile course, both sanctioned by The American Endurance Ride

Conference (AERC), the national governing body for long distance riding. Also offered is a 10 mile Fun Ride, a great opportunity for new riders to get an introduction to endurance riding or to just enjoy the beautiful trails.

Endurance riding is a sport that has many levels of appeal. For some it is a highly competitive and challenging athletic endeavor. For others it is a recreational activity combining a camping trip with a trail ride. For yet others it involves a search to experience our American heritage, to discover the country as our forefathers once did--from the back of a horse. Because endurance riders recognize the prime importance of finishing the event on a sound and healthy horse, the motto of the association is "To finish is to win."

Additionally, a 30 mile and a 10 mile Ride and Tie course will be held, sponsored by the national Ride and Tie Organization. For Ride and Tie information contact Annette Parsons (aparsons@apbb.net)

Lily Glen horse camp is located in the Howard Prairie recreational area operated by the

Jackson County Park system. Camp is reserved for the Pacific Crest Ride event starting friday, august 26. Awards meeting and a breakfast for all participants will be on sunday, august 28.

Come enjoy a weekend of wonderful horse camping, a variety of scenic trails and the camaraderie of fellow horsemen. All ages are welcome, special recognition for junior riders. Proceeds from the ride will be donated to Charitable Equine Programs.

For more information/entry forms contact Diana Aldridge, ride manager.

Tulip Hits 22,000

Dave Rabe and Tulip on Day 4 of the 2011 EMS - Photo by Steve Bradley

February 22 2011

Les Carr's Tulip reached 22,000 career miles on Day 4 of the Eastern Mojave Classic on February 20, 2011, with Dave Rabe in the saddle.

Tulip became AERC's highest mileage horse in the 2006 Death Valley Encounter with Les Carr, passing the previous high mileage horse, Rushcreek Lad (18,215), owned by Trilby Pederson.

He reached 20,000 miles in May of 2009.

Tulip, a 22-year-old Morab gelding, is 15.2 hands and excels in 50-mile multi-day rides.

Les Carr, 75, has 47,000 AERC miles himself. And neither show signs of slowing down.


Tulip and his 'Crew': Les, Jill, and Dave Rabe - Photo by Steve Bradley

Hadji Halef Omar Wins 2010 AHA Distance Horse of the Year

Arabianhorses.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 11, 2011
Contact: AHA
303-696-4500
Hadji Halef Omar Wins 2010 AHA Distance Horse of the Year
Aurora, CO (February 11, 2011) - Hadji Halef Omar (Centavo x ZA Sabbaths Joy), a 1992 grey gelding, owned by Stephanie Palmer-DuRoss of Queen Creek, Ariz. has been named the 2010 AHA Distance Horse of the Year. The 10-year veteran of endurance competition has taken Palmer-DuRoss over 5,810 miles, a journey for which she is very grateful. "I am nominating Hadji for the Distance Horse of the Year Award in appreciation for all the beautiful places he has taken me and for the places we have yet to see," says Palmer-DuRoss.

"Hadji" has 112 finishes out of 114 starts with 86 finishes in the top 20. Hadji has finished in the Top Ten of half of the endurance rides he's finished with two wins and five best conditions. Together, Palmer-DuRoss and Hadji have finished 14 Pioneer rides, totaling 2,795 miles, an especially impressive feat since Pioneer rides are multi-day events consisting of 155 miles that must be completed with the same horse and rider team. "Asking your horse to do a ride and have them sound and ready to go again the next day and the next day after that requires careful management and a special horse," says Palmer-DuRoss.

In 2010 alone, Hadji was first place in the Open Event Incentive Program in Endurance, second place in the Southwest Region lightweight division, eighth overall in the Southwest region and eighth nationally in Pioneer award lightweight division. He earned two highest vet scores and completed a grand total of 765 miles.

Palmer-DuRoss found Hadji in July of 2001 after her beloved endurance mare had suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. "It's commonly said that when one door closes another door opens and I truly believe that was the case," says Palmer-DuRoss who stopped by a ranch in Beaver, Utah on her way home from an endurance ride to take a look at a grey gelding. "Of course, we did have an extra spot in the horse trailer, just in case."

Hadji had been used as a string horse and already had a wonderful base of long, slow miles that serves as excellent conditioning for a lengthy endurance career. "I bought him for $1,500. It was the best money I've ever spent," says Palmer-DuRoss. Hadji has a Half-Arabian and Quarter Horse back-up, but his work ethic and eager attitude don't give the other horses much of a chance to get on the trail. "A huge amount of Hadji's success is that we ride his ride. Once I convince him not to start out too fast in the beginning he is very good at dictating his own pace," says Palmer-DuRoss.

Palmer-DuRoss transitioned Hadji to barefoot in 2007—another secret to their success. "Hadji used to interfere in the front so bad that eventually he would have had to retire early from the damage done to his legs. Being barefoot has added years to Hadji's career. He feels younger and moves out much better than he ever did in shoes. It is amazing the difference and he gets better every year. Hadji and I do quite a few rides every year and I spend a lot of time resting him between rides and at this point there is no need to overdo his conditioning. At his age and with the shape Hadji is in, he is very easy to keep fit. My best partner Hadji and I keep in condition by exploring new trails and riding with great friends."

Riding For Himself

Alamogordonews.com - Full Article

California man travels across the country in a covered wagon for the joy of it
Alamogordo Daily News
By Elva K. Osterreich, Associate News Editor
Posted: 02/18/2011 12:00:00 AM MST

Traveling only with Bug, Kate and Kitty, Gene Glasscock has made his home on the road. Instead of a comfortable RV in which to ride, he has chosen a covered wagon.

Kate and Kitty are mules who are faithfully hauling Glasscock from one coast to the other. Bug, a little dog, is his boss, Glasscock said.

In the early 1980s, Glasscock took his biggest longrider journey when he road a horse from the Arctic Circle to the equator, a distance of about 12,000 miles. From 2002 to 2005, he rode a horse named Frank through all 48 state capitals in the continental United States. Now, he's just hanging out in his wagon moving west to east at his own pace...

Read more here:
http://www.alamogordonews.com/ci_17418605

Distance riders brave cold

Eastern Arizona Courier
Published on Sunday, February 13, 2011 8:24 AM MST


Veterinarian Sid Vargas of El Paso, right, checks the physical condition of a horse at the Graham County Fairgrounds during the Springdale Romp, a distance riding event, on Tuesday. Riders are required to vet their horses the day before the ride, halfway through the ride and after the ride. Thirty-three riders (61 were expected but many couldn’t make it due to bad weather) from across the country came to Safford to compete in endurance rides.

Veterinarian Sid Vargas of El Paso, right, checks the physical condition of a horse at the Graham County Fairgrounds during the Springdale Romp, a distance riding event, on Tuesday. Riders are required to vet their horses the day before the ride, halfway through the ride and after the ride. Thirty-three riders (61 were expected but many couldn’t make it due to bad weather) from across the country came to Safford to compete in endurance rides. Photo by Brian Wright

http://www.eacourier.com/articles/2011/02/13/news/doc4d55c7b65b13e536945060.txt

2011 AERC National Championship update

February 12 2011

the 2011 AERC National Championship will be held on August 25 and 27, 2011 at Fort Stanton, New Mexico. Base camp is located in a large open meadow at 6,200 feet elevation on BLM land. Trails are two-track roads, others cross rolling hills and open meadows.

The 100-mile ride will be held on August 25, and the 55-mile ride will be on August 27. All entries must meet AERC qualification criteria:

* - 55-mile ride: 300 lifetime miles (horse) AND 300 lifetime miles (rider), with at least 100 miles together. The mileage requirements must be met with endurance competitions of 50 miles or more only -- no limited distance miles count towards qualification criteria.

* - 100-mile ride: 500 lifetime miles (horse) AND 500 lifetime miles (rider), with at least one 100 mile, one day ride together. The mileage requirements must be met with endurance competitions of 50 miles or more only -- no limited distance miles count towards qualification criteria.

* - Alternate qualification (either distance): If the horse and rider team has completed 1,000 AERC endurance miles (rides 50 miles or more only) they are qualified to enter.

A pre-ride over the trails will be two Fort Stanton 3-day Pioneer rides (165 miles), on July 10-11-12, and July 14-15-16. It will include 6 days of 35-mile Limited Distance, and 4 days of Ride & Tie.

For more information see:
http://www.fortstantonenduranceride.com/

US Endurance Chef d'Equipe Position

USEF.org

Endurance Chef d'Equipe - United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. (Lexington, KY)

Goals:

Short Term--

* Assess training needs of riders interested in competing in international competitions and develop clinics based on those needs;
* Develop and implement a training program for ranked riders and their horses ;
* Prepare riders to compete in the 2011 Pan American Championship with the goal of implementing those strategies in preparing a team for World Endurance Championships

Long Term--

* Assist the High Performance Committee in the development and implementation of the Endurance Strategic Plan with the primary goal of winning a team medal with Individual placements in the top ten in World Endurance Championships.

Duties:

Assist the Endurance High Performance Committee in developing a program that will:

* Promote interest and participation in international/FEI endurance competitions;
* Educate and train riders who are interested in competing in international/FEI competitions. This will include developing clinics and sourcing clinicians who can provide the necessary training and education in areas such as horse physiology, classical riding skills, nutrition, horseshoeing, and race strategy.
* Prepare horses and riders for the 2011 Pan American Championship that can be built upon for future World Championships;
* Prepare horses and riders to win team medals with individual placements in the top ten at World Championships;
* Develop fair, effective, transparent selection procedures;
* Develop an annual budget in conjunction with the Endurance Director that supports the program’s goals.

In addition, the Chef d’ Equipe will:

* Train riders named to the Ranked List through personal coaching and through clinics with the assistance of clinicians in the areas of horse physiology, classical riding skills, nutrition, horseshoeing, and race strategy in preparation for designated international/FEI competitions for which USEF will select individuals and/or a team to compete;
* Attend selection events each year in order to promote, coach, and make selection recommendations for upcoming competitions;
* Review horse and rider performance with the rider after each selection event, and send a report to the selectors after each selection event;
* Maintain records of communications with athletes;
* Work in conjunction with the Endurance High Performance Committee and the Endurance Director to meet the goals of the program;
* Exercise the judgment and discretion in the manner and means necessary to accomplish the goals of the job.

Qualifications:

* A thorough knowledge of the Policies and Procedures and organizational structure of the United States Equestrian Federation;
* The will to win;
* Proven leadership ability;
* Ability to communicate timely and effectively both verbally and in written form with riders and others as necessary and especially during a competition;
* Ability to successfully work with athletes, officials, veterinarians, and fellow USEF staff members.
* Excellent people skills with an ability to coach, motivate, and direct riders;
* A well organized individual with the ability to direct a progressive endurance program in conjunction with of the Director of Endurance;
* Foresight and vision to develop and nurture an endurance program that will result in the winning of medals at international competitions.
* A strong understanding and knowledge of endurance and a superior understanding of race strategy.
* A true horseman with the basic understanding to the physiology, nutrition, training and conditioning of endurance horses;
* Approachable by the athletes and others and forthcoming with advise;
* Able to think strategically on a national and international level;
* Ability to foster talent;
* Provide the assurance that no personal conflicts exist that may hinder the candidate’s ability to perform the job.

Term:

* Ideally this position will be filled by June 1, 2011 providing a qualified candidate is found.
* The position will last through the 2014 World Equestrian Games.
* This job description is subject to change dependent upon the individual candidate’s qualifications and skills.

Visit http://usngbjobs.teamworkonline.com/teamwork/r.cfm?i=34086 to apply for this position.

American Endurance Ride Conference Annual Convention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: February 3, 2010

Horseback riders of all types will find inspiration at the American Endurance Ride Conference’s 2011 convention at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada, on March 4 and 5. The theme for this year’s annual meeting is “Family-Friends-Fun” and the show promises a family-friendly celebration of endurance riding for participants of all ages.

A free trade show in the exhibit hall from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday features the lightweight tack and saddles favored by distance riders, plus a myriad of products for all horse enthusiasts. A tack swap which benefits AERC gives convention-goers a chance to pick up used saddles and tack at great prices.

For those interested in finding out more about endurance riding, seminars are available both Friday and Saturday which feature icons of the sport sharing their knowledge. Seminar passes are $55 per day ($35 for each additional family member).

On Friday, Angie McGhee of Wildwood, Georgia, author of the humorous book, “The Lighter Side of Endurance Riding,” will team up with her daughter Josie for “Adventures in Family Riding.” Gary Magdesian, DVM, associate professor of medicine and epidemiology at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, will talk about recent research on horses not completing at the Tevis Cup 100-mile endurance ride. Next, equine veterinarian Langdon Fielding, DVM, will discuss risk factors for endurance pulls. Rounding out Friday’s program is Jan Worthington, a top endurance competitor who, at age 70, was the oldest competitor at the recent World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.

Saturday’s line-up includes “Lame or Not Lame? You Be the Judge,” moderated by Thomas Timmons, DVM, which will give audience members a chance to recognize subtle lameness clues. Julie Suhr, an AERC Hall of Fame member and one of the most respected members of the sport, will present “The FUNctional Endurance Family” with her daughter, Barbara White, a 30-time finisher of the grueling Tevis Cup competition. Saturday’s final seminar is “Nutrition for Endurance Equines,” presented by Performance Horse Nutrition’s Stephen Duren, MS, PhD.

The conference also features a regional awards ceremony on Friday afternoon and a dance later that evening, and free “hot topics” sessions on both Friday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m., where members discuss and debate current subjects of concern.

Top equines and riders of 2010 will be honored at Saturday’s national awards banquet. The evening culminates with the naming of the newest inductees into the organization’s Hall of Fame, both human and equine, and the Pard’ners Award winner, honoring the person and horse who best personify true partnership and sportsmanship.

Convention registration can be made by phone to the AERC office at 866-271-2372. A complete convention overview and reservation forms are available online at www.aerc.org. The reservation line for the Grand Sierrra Resort and Casino is 800-648-5080.

For information about AERC's upcoming convention or membership in AERC, visit aerc.org or phone toll-free 866-271-2372.

Contact: Troy Smith
endurancenews@foothill.net
866-271-2372, 530-823-2260

Great Britain: Golden Horseshoe Ride introduces new family class

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full Article

Martha Terry
1 February, 2011

Endurance riders will tackle new routes at this year's Golden Horseshoe Ride on Exmoor (15-17 May), with organiser Barbara Wigley hoping that leading partnerships will use the 160k (100 miles) class en route to selection for the European Championships.

"The 160km class is possibly the most demanding on the British calendar and is ideally suited to riders looking towards international competition," said Mrs Wigley.

Home International chef d'equipe Maggie Pattinson said she would encourage all top riders to compete.

"Years ago, people would head to Exmoor to get some hard work under their belts," she said. "We've gone through a phase of being a bit soft and worried the horse might break — but we've got to see if these horses are fit enough..."

Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/305338.html

Great Britain: Introduction to endurance riding at Stannington

Journallive.co.uk - Full Article

* by Karen Dent, The Journal
* Jan 29 2011

RIDERS interested in endurance are being offered a free introduction to the sport in the North East.

The Intro to Endurance evening in Stannington, next month, will cover everything from pleasure rides to the low-distance competitive endurance, crewing and a look at competing abroad. The main speaker on the night will be Angela Hall, the founder of the Equine Massage Academy (North East).

The event is being organised by the Northumberland & Tyneside Endurance GB group, which has 39 members and organises eight rides in the region annually.

Viv Knight from the group has been involved in endurance for 16 years and now her whole family are part of the team.

She said: “It is the safest, healthiest – for the horse – most sociable, family-friendly, lowest cost competitive sport for those with horses...

http://www.journallive.co.uk/northumberland-sites/morpeth-northumberland/morpeth-news/2011/01/29/this-is-a-sport-which-endures-61634-28085322/

ACTHA Searches for Horse Reality TV Stars

ACTHA.us

ANY horse can win...here's how it works!

Stage 1 - Attend an Audition near you!

When? April 9 - April 24, 2011. Entries are limited!

You will be notified of your day/time/location via mail/email/phone at least 10 days before your audition.

All applications for auditions must be received on or before March 31st, 2011. However, reservations are considered according to space availability in your region and in your age division.

Where? ACTHA will come to you.

Thanks to the hundreds and hundreds of entries already received, the following locations have been selected so far!

See list of cities here

How? About 100 horses will be selected as finalists from the regional auditions. They will be represented from 2 age divisions, over 45 and under 45 (must be at least 21 on the day of the audition). Each region will be amply represented in the national finals with a minimum of 10 finalists selected from each region.

During your approximate 5 minute audition we will be looking for horse personality, finesse, cadence, and athleticism.

Cost? The cost for an audition is $149* There are no additional entry fees for those moving on to stage 2.

(Those needing financial assistance to make the trip to the national finals will have the opportunity to request help.)

Refunds? All audition reservations are 100% refundable (or at your option credited towards other ACTHA activities) as long as you inform us of your change in plans before 3/15/11.

Make your horse a Star! Auditions will be selectively filmed and featured on National and ACTHA TV (coming soon).

A commemorative T-shirt will be given to each participant.

Stage 2 - The National Finals, getting ready for America's vote!

All regional winners will be invited to come to the National Finals at the Franklin Family Ranch, near Austin, Texas May 8th - 12th, 2011. From here on, national celebrities will "coach" you to be the best you can be for the cameras and America's viewers!

Festivities will include:

* A six mile judged Competitive Trail Challenge to be enjoyed by ALL FINALISTS. This CTC will be held on one of ACTHA's most beautiful ranch venues.
* Several days of schooling and being "coached" on a wide array of ACTHA's trail obstacles. Ample time will be given during the week for question and answer sessions as well as interviews.
* Clinics and seminars from ACTHA's Founders and celebrity clinicians, complete with ample time for question and answer sessions.
* Tours of local area attractions.
* All of the above will be filmed to convey horse personality, style, and abilities for the American audience to vote for America's Favorite Trail Horse.

A commemorative DVD and sponsors' gifts will be given to each national finalist.

Awards by America's Vote:

In at least 10 selected episodes America will vote for their favorite horse. The horse with the most votes will win $5,000 for that day's performance. (Can only be won once per contestant ).

On Nationally TV, America's vote will pick America's Favorite Trail Horse Grand Prize Winners!

1st place - $25,000

2nd place - $15,000

3rd place - $10,000

For more information see
http://www.actha.us/index.php?option=com_association&view=guest&area=afth

Pagan to Speak at Endurance Conference in Nevada

KER.com

Joe Pagan, Ph.D., founder and president of Kentucky Equine Research (KER), is scheduled to speak at a special symposium being held in conjunction with the 2011 American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) National Convention, March 3-4, Reno, Nevada.

The symposium, titled "Acid-Base and Body Fluid Management in the Endurance Horse," features several researchers and key figures in the sport-horse industry. On the morning of March 3, Pagan will give a presentation, "Oral Electrolyte Absorption and Distribution in the Body." He will then participate in a discussion and Q-and-A later in the day.

See http://www.ker.com/news/2011/01/pagan-to-speak-at-endurance-co.html for a complete schedule of speakers and topics and registration information. The majority of the sessions are open to anyone with an interest in endurance.

KER is cosponsoring the symposium with the American Competitive Horse Consortium and Abaxis.

Back Country Horsemen of America Represented at BLM National Summit

January 26 2011

By Sarah Wynne Jackson

In its ongoing pursuit of protecting our right to ride horses on public lands, Back Country Horsemen of America sends an appropriate ambassador to the major conventions of land management agencies. Their goal? To be the voice of horsemen across the country that cherishes the opportunity to enjoy America’s beautiful landscape by horseback, as our ancestors did.

The National Landscape Conservation System Summit

On November 15 and 16, 2010, Dennis Dailey traveled to Las Vegas to attend the Bureau of Land Management’s National Landscape Conservation System Summit. Dailey is BCHA’s Senior Advisor of Wilderness, Recreation, and Trails. He was one of approximately 340 participants representing the wide variety of folks interested in the use and management of BLM land.

The summit focused on the National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS) and community partnerships. The NLCS contains some of the West’s most spectacular landscapes. It includes over 886 federally recognized areas and approximately 27 million acres of National Monuments, National Conservation Areas, Wilderness Areas, Wilderness Study Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, National Scenic and Historic Trails, and Conservation Lands of the California Desert.

Created in 2000 by former Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt, the NLCS brought these special places into a single system where conservation would be the overriding goal. NLCS lands are managed to conserve, protect, and restore the exceptional scientific, recreational, cultural, and ecological values for which they were designated. The system was made permanent by the 2009 Omnibus Public Land Management Act.

The purpose of the summit was to provide a forum to solicit, discuss, and build upon ideas and suggestions from NLCS partners to assist in the challenging mission of balancing competing land and resource uses while protecting the values for which the areas were designated. Dailey also participated in focus group sessions brainstorming ideas.

More Than Just Words

Dailey felt the summit was constructive and was pleased with various statements he heard from attendees, which reflected BCHA’s desire to both preserve and enjoy the land.

Bureau of Land Management Director Bob Abbey made remarks that, consistent with the values for which the lands were designated, these areas would remain “accessible for use,” management plans would be “built on local effort,” and that these areas would be managed to “preserve local traditions and history as working landscapes;” a “bridge between landscapes and cultures.”

When asked whether the law meant “protection or use,” Abbey responded, clearly but politely, that it does not have to be “either/or.” The areas would be managed “to protect the values for which they were established and provide for compatible uses.”

Both Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and Director Abbey stressed the importance of “partnering” and “neighboring.” The Wilderness Society President Bill Meadows, moderator of a panel discussion, also emphasized the “gospel of partnering and neighboring” and the importance of “connecting people to the places they care about.”

The Importance of Relationships

At this summit, Dailey also renewed old acquaintances and made new ones. He visited briefly with Director Abbey about BCHA’s mission and partnership contributions. He also conversed with TWS President Meadows (who once again spoke about the importance of the partnership between BCHA and TWS); Doug Scott, Campaign for America’s Wilderness; Adam Cramer, Outdoor Alliance; Greg Mumm, Blue Ribbon Coalition; Jay Watson, Student Conservation Association; and with several BLM Washington Office staff members.

Much of the emphasis for their volunteerism is with “site based” organizations, otherwise known as “friends” groups. It seems that BCHA’s volunteer work is becoming legendary. A number of other people approached Dailey throughout the meeting to comment on volunteer Back Country Horsemen efforts in their respective areas.

Although traditional land users such as ranchers and the oil/gas industry also have an interest in the land, Dailey didn’t meet many of these folks at the summit. He feels the exchange might have been more meaningful if traditional users had been better represented. BCHA was the only equestrian group there and a couple of BLM employees asked him about the organization and indicated that they would like to join or form a local chapter.

Now It’s Our Turn

Dailey feels that the BLM clearly sees the NLCS as “a different way of doing business;” a more collaborative management environment in which the responsibility for both planning and the actions prescribed by the plans would be shared with stakeholders. Back Country Horsemen of America sincerely hopes that intention becomes reality. That method would become a model for management that other agencies have yet to achieve.

Many lands in the NLCS provide important recreation experiences for horsemen. In order to preserve a reasonable balance between protection and responsible use, it’s vital for us to be involved with the planning processes from the beginning. Dailey believes that the BLM leadership is sincere about their commitment to making public involvement truly meaningful. It’s up to us now, to participate in a meaningful way.

To learn more about how you can get involved, contact Back Country Horsemen of America to find a local BCH group near you.

About Back Country Horsemen of America

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
Back Country Horsemen of America
1-888-893-5161
www.backcountryhorse.com

2011 AERC Convention

January 26 2011

The 2011 AERC Convention is fast approaching: it will take place March 4 and 5, 2011, in Reno, NV, and will feature a wealth of educational information, entertainment, awards and no lack of opportunities for shopping!

Educational seminars include subjects covering risk factors of ride pulls by Langdon Fielding, DVM, treatment options after ride pulls by K. Gary Magdesian, DVM, AERC lameness judging guidelines by Thomas R Timmons, DVM, and equine endurance nutrition by Stephen Duren, MS, PhD - author of "The Concise Guide to Nutrition in the Horse" and "The 101 Most Frequently Asked Horse Nutrition Questions."

One can count on an entertaining seminar by the always-humorous Angie McGhee - author of "The Lighter Side of Endurance Riding" - with her daughter Angie McGhee on "Adventures in Family Riding."

Highlights of this year's convention will be inspirational seminars by the popular international endurance competitor Jan Worthington, "Never Give Up; and by 'the First Lady of Endurance' Julie Suhr - author of "Ten Feet Tall, Still" - with her daughter Barbara White on "The Functional Endurance Family."

John Parke will facilitate "Hot Topics," workshops where endurance members can discuss, brainstorm, and debate topics such as "LD and Endurance" and "Trails: Lobbying for Change."

Additionally, the Jim Steere Horse Health Symposium will be presented March 3 and 4 in conjunction with the Veterinary Continuing Education Program. This is a dialogue between riders, veterinarians and teachers on the topic of acid-base and body fluid management in the endurance horse.

Of course, the very popular Trade Show with "the latest and greatest distance riding products" will run throughout the convention.

The AERC Regional Awards Ceremony will be Friday night followed by a dance, and the AERC National Awards Banquet will be on Saturday night.

You can still register for the convention. See www.aerc.org for a convention flyer and registration form.

Ceci Butler-Stasiuk Named 2010 Recipient of Maggy Price Endurance Excellence Trophy

USEF.org

Release: December 08 2010
Author: By Leah Oliveto

Lexington, KY - Endurance athlete Ceci Butler-Stasiuk has been named this year's recipient of the Maggy Price Endurance Excellence Trophy, sponsored by Gold Medal Farm and Larry and Valerie Kanavy.This award is given to the endurance athlete who earns the most points in selected Ranking Trials during the ride year.

Butler-Stasiuk (Humble, TX) and DJB Cytron Kon JMF, owned by her mother Darolyn Butler, won the Florida Horse Park CEI3* 160km ride in January and were named to the short list for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Endurance Championship in September. Butler-Stasiuk also notched wins with DJB K De Cielo in the 80km ride at the Florida Horse Park CEI3* and in the Git-R-Done II CEI2* 120km ride. With DJB KD Fantasia she won at the Fort Howard Endurance Ride CEI3* 160km ride.

The Endurance Excellence Trophy is named for international endurance rider Maggy Price, who was an Individual Bronze and Team Silver medalist at the 1992 World Endurance Championships and was a pioneer for the sport in the United States. Price was instrumental in promoting international Endurance riding to the U.S. Endurance community; she served in multiple leadership positions and was inducted into the American Endurance Ride Conference Hall of Fame in 1994.

Tevis Trail Work Parties

If you're interested in volunteering your time to work on the Tevis trail, RSVP to the emails below.

Event #2, Saturday, February 12, 2011
Project: Browns Bar to Lower Quarry
Meet: 8:00 am - Lower Quarry Parking Lot
Directions:From I-80, take the Elm Street exit in Auburn. Head East and follow Hwy. 49 route signs heading into canyon toward Cool. LQ parking is on the left side of road after crossing bridge over American River.
Bring: Gloves, water, snack, clippers, hand saw, shovel, etc.
Please RSVP by February 5 to trails@ws100.com
This event can be applied to 2011 Run volunteer requirement.

Event #3, Saturday, March 19, 2011
Project: Cal Loop (Peachstone Section)
Meet: 8:00 am - Foresthill Post Office. Corner of Foresthill Rd. and Racetrack St.
Directions: From I-80, take the Elm Street exit in Auburn. Head East and follow Hwy. 49 route signs heading into canyon toward Cool. LQ parking is on the left side of road after crossing bridge over American River.
Bring: Gloves, water, snack, clippers, hand saw, shovel, etc.
Please RSVP by March 12 to trails@ws100.com
This event can be applied to 2011 volunteer requirement.

Event #4, Saturday, April 30, 2011
Project: Deadwood to Michigan Bluff
Meet: 8:30 am - Foresthill Post Office Corner of Foresthill and Race Track Roads
Directions: I-80 to Auburn. Take Foresthill Exit in Auburn. Head East on Foresthill Road for 18 miles to Foresthill. Post Office on left.
Bring: Gloves, water, snack, clippers, hand saw, shovel, etc.
Please RSVP by April 23 to trails@ws100.com
This event can be applied to 2011 Run volunteer requirement.

Event #5, Saturday, May 14, 2011
Project: Dusty Corners to Last Chance/Devil's Thumb to Swinging Bridge
Meet: 8:30 am - Foresthill Post Office Corner of Foresthill and Race Track Roads
Directions: I-80 to Auburn. Take Foresthill Exit in Auburn. Head East on Foresthill Road for 18 miles to Foresthill. Post Office on left.
Bring: Gloves, water, snack, clippers, hand saw, shovel, etc.
Please RSVP by May 7 to trails@ws100.com
This event can be applied to 2012 Run volunteer requirement.

Event #6, Friday and Saturday, June 17-18, 2011
Weekend Campout, Robinson Flat Campground
Projects: Lyon Ridge to Red Star/Red Star to Robinson Flat
Meet: Friday afternoon arrival
Directions: From I-80, take the Foresthill Exit in Auburn. Head East on Foresthill Road - 38 miles to the Robinson Flat Campground
Bring: Camping gear, gloves, water, snack, clippers, hand saw,
shovel, etc.
Please RSVP by June 10 to trails@ws100.com

EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest Expanded for Endurance and Trail Riders

January 25 2011

EasyCare has announced their 5th annual edition of the Hoof Boot Contest, with $10,000 in cash and product prizes for 2011, with 20 winners to receive cash and prizes.

This year's contest has two distinct divisions - for endurance and limited distance riding, and competitive trail riding.

For each division, EasyCare will award $5000 in cash and product to the riders who complete the most sanctioned miles during the 2011 ride season.

For more information, see the EasyCare Blog page:
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/bootlegging/weve-expanded-the-2011-10000-hoof-boot-contest-with-you-in-mind

United States Equestrian Federation honors endurance riders

Horsereporter - Full Article

January 23 2011

Kelsey Kimbler from Aberdeen, South Dakota received the USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year Award at the USEF annual awards dinner on January 22. Taking double honors at the awards ceremony, Kimbler was also the recipient of the 2010 USEF Youth Sportsman’s Award, sponsored by Breyer Animal Creations. Kimbler, a 17-year-old high school senior has won the AERC Junior National Hundred Mile Award twice since the award was established in 2007. Kimbler is the only junior to complete five 100-mile rides in one year. She represented the AHA Youth Association as her region’s delegate and is involved in 4-H events with her Arabians. She was nominated for this award by both the Arabian Horse Association (AHA) and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC). Kimbler’s sister, Kirsten, won this award in 2007...

Read more here:
http://horsereporter.wordpress.com/2011/01/23/united-states-equestrian-federation-honors-endurance-riders/

Spain: Interview with Jose Manuel Soto Kaliber organizer of Andalucia

El Raid Blog - Full Article

Monday January 24 2011

[Google Translation]

La Vanguardia newspaper interview José Manuel Soto , Kaliber organizer of Andalucia, the world's longest Raid.
This is the interview José Manuel:

" Even horses need an illusion of course "
I am 50 years good or bad rider is at any age.
I was born in Seville, marking a lot: the people of Seville are terrible migrants.
Married, three grown children, thank God.
The horse does not give satisfaction to a motorcycle.
Seville 25 years I've been singing and pulled hard.
Running slowly

Before I get on the subway, I raise unlimited spaces I've seen go at a gallop (in the promotional video) to the participants of the raid Kaliber under the April sky Andalusia.
I feel a little less miserable when I think those accomplished riders joyful ride the sands of El Rocio, Grazalema streams, the dunes of Doñana, the slopes of Round or the snows of Veleta but pending the clock and GPS
"Soto told me that the Spanish are lost?, So when we talk in Seville, I propose that, in addition to the raid, arrange a ride Andalusian horses for beginners with no hurry, which is the best way to go further in these times...

Read more here:
http://ggjineteraid.blogspot.com/2011/01/entrevista-jose-manuel-soto-organizador.html

Australia: Meg Wade's Recovery Progressing

SA.Equestrian.org.au

Nicola Turner, Monday, 17 January 2011

Champion Endurance rider Meg Wade suffered a brain injury from a riding accident in April 2009. Meg has written this letter to update us on her progress.

Read more here:
http://www.sa.equestrian.org.au/default.asp?Page=24975

Tommy Crain passes

Tommy Crain died in his sleep January 13. Tommy is survived by his daughter Annie, and wife, Melissa - an avid Endurance Rider for decades. Tommy and Melissa were very active in the sport - Melissa as a serious rider and competitor with her spectacular horse Whoa Jack, and Tommy as a cheerful and competent support crew for Melissa and anybody else that needed help.

The music world will also miss Tommy. These words from Charlie Daniels:

CHARLIE DANIELS said on his website: “TOMMY CRAIN will always be a part of the CDB family and his music will always be a part of the CDB sound. We have lost a good friend and the world has lost a unique, creative and precious human being. We send our deepest condolences to the family of our brother TOMM CRAIN. You were special, buddy. We’re gonna miss you. CD”

Tommy's bio:

Tom Crain was born in Nashville, Tn. on January 16, 1951, the son of Tom and Helen Crain. He has an older sister, Sherry, and a younger brother Billy. At the tender age of 6 yrs., Tom began piano lessons after being influenced by his dad and granddad who both played the piano.

After a neighbor taught him to play ukelele in the 6th grade, Tom won a talent contest at his grammar school and decided to pursue music more seriously. He then took up guitar and banjo. Throughout high school, Tom played in various local bands, the best being Flat Creek Band in which his brother Billy also played guitar. This group eventually disbanded and Tom formed a group called Buckeye. Buckeye was the opening act at Charlie Daniels' very first Volunteer Jam at Nashville's War Memorial Auditorium where he met Charlie Daniels and a lot of other southern rock musicians.

About a year later , Charlie needed a guitar player and Tom was the man he called for the job. In a few weeks time in February of 1975, Tom married his sweetheart, Melissa, moved to a new apartment, and left on the road with the Charlie Daniels Band for a fifteen year run. Tom played on many CDB albums, co wrote over 60 songs with the band and won a Grammy for co writing " The Devil Went Down To Georgia " which won a Grammy in 1980.

Tom left the band in the summer of 1989 to pursue other interests and to raise his young daughter, Annie, and to help his wife in her career of equestrian endurance riding. After several tries at having his own band during the 90's Tom disappeared from the music scene until he met Towson Engsberg, a drummer from Atlanta , GA. who had a rhythm section called The Crosstown Allstars. Tom began commuting to Georgia on a weekly basis in 2004 to play the Atlanta club scene. After about a year and a half, the Allstars decided to record an original album to be released in 2005. The rest is future history.

Condolences to Melissa and Tommy's family and friends, and a 'thank you' to Tommy for his selfless gifts to the endurance community.

Steph
Endurance.Net

Mongol Derby Champion of Texas to Return in 2011

Myhorse.com - Full Article

Texan farrier-come-adventurer Justin Nelzen, winner of the second Mongol Derby last summer, is a confirmed entrant in the 2011 competition. The Mongol Derby is a self-guided, 1000-km adventure race cross the Mongolian steppe. The race takes place in one of the world's last remaining wildernesses and birthplace of the largest land empire ever created. Having had the ride of a lifetime last August, Nelzen is keen to defend his title and better his achievement. A former U.S. Marine, world champion martial artist, marathon runner, triathlete and more recently international endurance rider, Nelzen will be adding to an impressive tally of sporting and adventuring honors.

The Mongol Derby isthe longest multi-horse race in the world, and one of the most grueling equine adventures. At the heart of the Mongol Derby is the horse station system, called Urtuus in Mongolian...

Read more here:
http://myhorse.com/mongol-derby-champion-texas-return-2011.html?utm_source=myhorse.com&utm_medium=email+newsletter&utm_campaign=myhorsenewsletter

Great Britain: Fears over Norfolk forest sell-off plans

Eveningnews24.co.uk - Full Article

By REBECCA GOUGH
Monday, 10 January, 2011

Hundreds of horse riders could face difficulty pursuing their passion in Norfolk if swathes of publicly-owned woodland is privatised under government proposals.

If the move goes ahead, Thetford Forest could no longer be the domain of family picnics, campers or cyclists, and riders could be forced out of the area completely due to a lack of alternative space.

Currently much of Britain’s endurance riding programme is carried out in the region, and people from all over the country descend on the forest for its long and peaceful routes.

Nicki Gilbert has been breeding endurance horses in her spare time for the past five years. She is now in limbo waiting for a decision and could be forced to relocate if the forest is sold to private landowners.

Miss Gilbert, 39, who runs Akala Arabians at Ash Farm in Shipdham, said: “A lot of it is about having access to somewhere you can ride safely and off road.

“I used to hack out in the lanes but just in the years I’ve been riding traffic has got so much faster and it’s impossible now..."

Read more here:
http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/fears_over_norfolk_forest_sell_off_plans_1_770425

The Arabian Racing Cup Stallion Auction unites with the TABA Stallion Auction to benefit the Darley Awards

Houston, Texas, USA - January 10, 2011

Two highly regarded annual Arabian breeding auctions with years of reputable history have united for the benefit of the Darley Awards 2011. The combined auction offers a collection of top USA & International Arabian Race Sires, including the leading sire in the U.S. industry.

The auction format is online and runs from January 28th to January 31st, 2011.

Stallion owners generously donated their stallion breedings for this special event with an unwavering commitment to the Arabian racing industry. Auction prices start at 50% of the published fees.

Buyers of these breedings will have fun with competitive bidding and feel pride they are not only doing a great service for their own breeding programs, but are playing a vital role in holding up the Darley tradition. Everyone with interest in the Arabian horse and its historical role in the horse racing sport is encouraged to participate.

The equivalent of the Eclipse Awards in the Thoroughbred racing world, The Darley Awards were founded in 1987 to honor the best in Arabian horse racing. This distinguished black-tie ceremony recognizes the most outstanding racehorses, jockeys, owners, trainers and breeders of the Arabian horse community. The Darley Awards are sponsored each year by the Arabian Racing Cup and will take place this year on March 5th, 2011 in Houston, Texas. The event has been held in various venues, but has found home in Texas for the last 3 years.

The Darley weekend includes Graded stakes races at Sam Houston Race Park and other events. The Darley theme this year, "Hats Off to the Champions," flaunts festive Derby Hats in celebration of Arabian Racing´s first stakes race at the important Keeneland race track in the state of Kentucky. This grade 1 event, The President of the UAE Cup, was part of an international race series and marked an important step for Arabian racing in USA.

Texas Arabian Breeders Association (TABA) plays a leading role in Arabian racing and is an affiliate of the USA Arabian Racing organization, the Arabian Jockey Club. Organized in part to help assure Arabian horses a solid place in Texas horse racing, TABA was formed in 1988. Many of those making up the first TABA Board of Governors had made certain that the Texas Racing Act of 1987 included Arabian horses as a racing breed, along with the Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse. This legislation guaranteed these racing breeds the right to race at all Texas pari-mutuel horse racing tracks, and Arabians enjoy racing opportunities at all three Class 1 horse racing tracks in Texas.

TABA's main job as an organization is to act as the liaison between the Texas Racing Commission, the racetracks and the other racing breed organizations. No less important is TABA's job of managing and promoting the Accredited Texas-Bred program, and coordinating racing meets with organizations in other states. Details about TABA, Texas Arabian horse racing and the Accredited Texas-Bred program can be found on TABA's website, www.texasarabianbreeders.com.

For more information or reservations for the 2011 Darley Awards, visit www.arabianracingcup.com.
To bid online for breedings to the Auction stallions benefiting the Darley Awards, visit www.racearabians.com.

###
Contact:
Todd Moak, Stallion Breeding Auction Manager 409-429-7142
Texas Arabian Breeders Association (TABA)
P.O. Box 215
Forney, TX 75126
auction@texasarabianbreeders.com
www.texasarabianbreeders.com

Great Britain: My Two-Year-Old Son's First Endurance Competition

Horseandcountry.tv - Full Article

5 January 2011

Endurance rider Beccy Broughton has been competing since she was six-years-old. She has represented Team GB at numerous events, including at WEG in 2010. In her blog, Beccy shares her life with her horses and her training tips.

“Well, here I sit on New Year’s Day, the white stuff has all gone and even the ice has finally thawed. The ground is sodden and squelchy once more, going from one extreme to the other. Mind you, I did enjoy riding in all that snow, riding through the forest in a place that I can only describe as Nania! I did not come across any half man half animal fauns or talking beavers or Aslan though. It was a magical ending to a fairly magical year...

Read more here:
http://www.horseandcountry.tv/celebrity/beccy-broughton/my-two-year-old-sons-first-endurance-competition

Great Britain: Versatile Bobby is crowned Olympia veteran champion

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full Article

Ellie Hughes

23 December, 2010
Few horses that can boast such a comprehensive CV as 30-year-old Bobby, the 14.3hh skewbald who was recently crowned the Veteran Horse Society's in-hand champion at Olympia.

The Helme family's much-loved gelding started his ridden career competing in endurance with Becci Elme, who then passed over the reins to her younger sister Donna (now Kenyon).

Donna and Bobby went on to represent Great Britain in endurance at the World Equestrian Games in The Hague in 1994...

Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/competitionnews/387/304717.html

Kelsey Kimbler Named 2010 USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year

USEF.org

Release: December 23 2010
Author: USEF Communications Department

Lexington, KY - The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce Kelsey Kimbler as the 2010 Junior Equestrian of the Year. This highest of honor offered to a junior equestrian comes on the heels of another big honor Kelsey earned earlier this month - the 2010 USEF Youth Sportsman's Award, sponsored by Breyer Animal Creations. This puts Kelsey in elite company, as one of only a handful of junior equestrians to accomplish both feats in the same year.

"My sister Kirsten won this award in 2007 and I've always looked up to her. When she won, I decided 'That's my next goal!'" Kimbler related. "It has been a whirlwind experience."

The 17-year-old high school senior has shown an unwavering commitment to her sport. As a young child, she started in the show ring with walk-trot. Soon after, she continued her riding with endurance and has never looked back. Kimbler has won the AERC Junior National Hundred Mile Award twice in its four years of existence. This award is given to the junior rider who completes the most 100-mile rides in one year. Kimbler holds the record for being the only junior to complete five such endurance rides in one year. She also has represented the AHA Youth Association as her region's delegate and through involvement in 4-H events with her Arabians. She was nominated by both the Arabian Horse Association (AHA) and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC).

Her commitment does not stop with her horses, and as Kimbler can attest, she's used to balancing quite a hectic schedule. She tested for the first professional level in ballet in the fall, and hopes to teach younger children, to fund her college education. In addition, she is a member of the Keystone National Honor Society which requires her to complete 30 hours of community service along with maintaining at least a 4.0 grade point average. She is also an active member of her school's cross-country team and Students Against Destructive Decisions club (SADD).

Kimbler plans to attend university near home next year, pursuing a degree in biology. While other future plans aren't yet set in stone, she's already sure of one thing: horses.

The Ruth O'Keefe Meredith Trophy was established in 1985 to honor a junior equestrian who has made outstanding contributions to equestrian competition while exemplifying exceptional talent, sportsmanship and dedication. After reviewing the many candidates nominated for one of the USEF's highest honors, the Awards Committee selected the young equestrian who exceeded the demanding qualification criteria.

To qualify, a young equestrian must have competed at USEF-recognized shows over the past year while displaying good sportsmanship and integrity. The winner is also someone who has excelled and has willingly given back to their sport.

Kimbler will be honored during the 2010 Pegasus Awards on January 22 in Lexington, KY, as part of the 2011 USEF Annual Meeting. She was nominated by both the Arabian Horse Associaton (AHA) and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC).

For tickets to the 2011 USEF Annual Meeting and Pegasus Awards in Lexington, KY, visit www.usef.org and click on "2010 Annual Meeting" on the right side of the homepage.

For more information about the 2010 USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year, contact Trisha Watkins, USEF's Awards Manager, at (859) 225-6944 or tlwatkins@usef.org.

America's Favorite Equestrian Campaign Launched

Wednesday December 22 2010

Tucson, AZ

United States Equestrian Foundation (USEF) and The EQUUS Foundation have launched America's Favorite Equestrian campaign.

Designed as an interactive fundraising effort, the unique program is designed to raise funds for equestrian sport on an annual basis. It relies on donations made via mobile texting through any cellphone or handheld mobile device. Each $5 donation made between December 15, 2010 and February 28, 2011 is considered a vote. A minimum of $10,000 in sport welfare grants will be awarded based on the donations made via this campaign, and an additional $5,000 grant will be made to the equestrian discilpline that generates the most votes.

Eight equestrian disciplines are listed, and within each discipline, between six and eight people are vying for your vote. The disciplines are dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para-dressage, reining, and vaulting. Each of these disciplines were represented at the recent World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.

EasyCare is well represented in the Endurance discipline. 2009 AERC Hall of Fame Recipient Dave Rabe and EasyCare's own President & CEO, Garrett Ford, are two of the eight nominees. "I'm humbled to be in the company of such fine ambassadors of our sport. To be included in a list of equestrians that includes Julie Suhr and Becky Grand Hart is a great honor," said Ford. "I'm obviously delighted that two of the eight Endurance nominees are representing Easyboot, but this also represents an opportunity for the broader sport of endurance to receive new funds regardless of the representative you vote for."

“It is our goal to bring recognition to all the equestrian disciplines and breeds, and to inspire all equestrians to support our overall efforts on behalf of horses. We hope this program will generate excitement and involvement for horse lovers everywhere,” said Lynn Coakley, President of The EQUUS Foundation.

The EQUUS Foundation is dedicated to securing homes and useful lives for all horses - competitively, recreationally and therapeutically - and to educating the public on the important role horses have in our everyday lives. In the short time since the Foundation’s establishment, over $1.5 million in grants has been awarded to horse and equestrian charities across the United States.

How To Vote
Visit the link at http://www.equusfoundation.org/afe.php. Select your favorite equestrian listed under each discipline and follow the instructions provided. After texting your vote, you must reply YES to confirm your vote/$5 donation. Each donation is 100% tax deductible.

If you want to cast more than six $5 votes in a single month ($30), simply follow the instructions listed on each equestrian profile. A credit card is required.

How It Works
Fans can vote for their favorite equestrians from among a slate of international athletes until Februray 28, 2011.

Winner Selections
The winners will be the athletes from each discipline with the most votes. The winners will be announced in March, 2011.

America's Favorite Equestrians
To Vote and Make a $5 Donation, text VOTE + (space) + (Equestrian's Number Below) to 85944:

Dressage
Courtney King-Dye (57)
Debbie McDonald (58)
Guenter Seidel (59)
Katharine Bateson-Chandler (60)
Leslie Morse (61)
Steffen Peters (62)
Tina Konyot (63)
Todd Flettrich (64)

Driving
Chester Weber (1)
Fred Merriam (2)
Lisa Singer (3)
Rochelle Temple (4)
Suzy Stafford (5)
Tucker Johnson (6)

Endurance
Becky Hart (41)
Bill Wilson (42)
Dave Rabe (43)
Earle Baxter (44)
Garrett Ford (45)
Julie Suhr (46)
Robert Ribley (47)
Valerie Kanavy (48)

Eventing
Boyd Martin (9)
Bruce Davidson (10)
David O'Connor (11)
James C. Wofford (12)
Karen O'Connor (13)
Kimberly Severson (14)
Phillip Dutton (15)
Tiana Coudray (16)

Jumping
Anne Kursinski (17)
Beezie Madden (18)
George H. Morris (19)
Joe Fargis (20)
Laura Kraut (21)
Margie Engle (22)
McLain Ward (23)
Peter Wylde (24)

Para-Dressage
Jennifer Baker (49)
Jonathan Wentz (50)
Laura Goldman (51)
Mary Jordan (52)
Rebecca Hart (53)
Robin Brueckmann (54)
Susan Treabess (55)
Wendy Fryke (56)

Reining
Andrea Fappani (25)
Casey Deary (26)
Craig Schmersal (27)
Matthew Palmer (28)
Randy Paul (29)
Shawn Flarida (30)
Tim McQuay (31)
Tom McCutcheon (32)

Vaulting
Ali Divita (33)
Devon Maitozo (34)
Katherine Wick (35)
Kenny Geisler (36)
Kristian Roberts (37)
Mary McCormick (38)
Megan Benjamin (39)
Todd Griffiths (40)

For more information on America's Favorite Equestrian Campaign, contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880 (203) 259-1550, equus@equusfoundation.org, website: www.equusfoundation.org.


For more information on Easyboots, please see the EasyCare website at http://easycareinc.com and the EasyCare blog at http://blog.easycareinc.com . For all additional questions, contact Kevin Myers, Director of Marketing at kmyers@easycareinc.com.

Performance of the year: Lew Hollander

XTRI.com - Full Article

By Matthew Dale, Ironman.com
12/22/2010

In another of our "Performance of the year" stories, Matthew Dale catches up with a man who provided one of the year's highlights with his amazing race in Kona. Keep those e-mails coming to kevin@ironman.com - we'll be posting some of those here on the site tomorrow.

Memo to journalists contemplating writing a story about Bend, Oregon’s ageless wonder, 80-year-old Lew Hollander -- do not begin your line of questioning as follows:

“What type of work did you do before retiring?”

“I resent you using the past tense,” said Hollander, a physicist who still works in his chosen field. “I think I’m still functioning.”

Still functioning? Uh, yeah. In October, Hollander finished the Ford Ironman World Championship for the 21st time (out of 21 starts), jogging down Alii Drive well ahead of the midnight deadline, coming home in 15 hours, 48 minutes. Four weeks later he completed the 70.3 world champs in Clearwater.

When Hollander checked out of his Clearwater hotel, a person at the front desk made a big deal about his feat at 80. A gentleman apparently in his 50s looked at Hollander and asked, “What do you take?”

Warning. Warning. Another foolish question.
“Do you want to spend a day with me?” Hollander told the man.
The guy thought for some time, then said, “No.”

“It’s like (the guy’s asking), ‘Is there a magic pill? I don’t want to do any of the training crap. I just want to take a prescription,’” says Hollander. “There isn’t any pill. It’s (and here he spells out the word) W-O-R-K.”

Work. Move. Explore. Be active. Be involved. Be curious. Splice them all together and you’ve got a peek into what makes Hollander tick...

Read more here:
http://www.xtri.com/features_display.aspx?riIDReport=7004&CAT=21&xref=xx

Kibler uses a twist when it comes to endurance horse racing

TheSouthern.com

photo: Provided Keith Kibler at finish line of a 50-mile race near Kansas City on a mare named Kate. The horse won the race and was B.C. (Best Condition). (Courtesy)

Watching the 2004 movie "Hidalgo" changed Keith Kibler's life.

The movie told the story of the hardships endured by a cowboy, portrayed by Viggo Mortensen, and his horse, Hidalgo, during a long distance race across the North African desert. The movie inspired him to take up the sport of endurance horse racing.

"I had done over 80 triathlons and had accomplished about what I wanted to accomplish at that," Kibler said. "I thought I'd take a year off from punishing myself at that and spend some time with my wife and her horses.

"What really appeared to me was the relationship between the cowboy and his horse. I thought it would be fun to compete at something where you had more of a relationship than with your bike."

So, after a bit of research, Kibler decided to give endurance racing a shot.

Immediately, he discovered there was another parallel between the movie and real life.

In the movie, Mortensen rode an American mustang, a horse that many believed unsuited to the rigors of a long-distance race. Kibler, and his wife, Sandy, compete on Tennessee Walking Horses and Missouri Foxtrotters. Most endurance racers ride Arabians.

"I showed up at my first race, a 50-mile race, in May of 2005 and was told I was on the wrong kind of horse and should go home," he said. "They asked if I could really sit on a horse for 50 miles. An ironman is about 140 miles, so I thought I could. I had just completed my second one of those, and didn't know if I wanted to do that any more."

The races are sanctioned by the American Endurance Ride Conference. About 92-93 percent of the competitors ride Arabians, a fact that piqued Kibler's curiosity.

"It made me wonder whether a gaited horse could do endurance," he said. "And, that's what I sought to find out. I used both the training techniques and training tools from my triathlon background to train the horse because I didn't know any better. Not only did it work, but it worked very well."

There is a real advantage to riding the gaited horses.

"To ride an Arabian horse for 50 of 100 miles, you have to have really strong legs and a strong back because you're jumping up and down," Kibler said. "Our horses are so smooth you don't have to do that. The saddles we use are cushioned. The one my wife has has a webbing in it. It's kind of like riding in an easy chair."

The Kiblers race nine different horses. In their five years they've had 47 races, 29 top-10 finishes and five best of condition awards.

"The best of condition award is the top honor in this sport," Kibler said. "It's a combination of where you place, the weight of the rider and how the veterinarians have scored the horses before the race, at each vet stop, at the end of the race and an hour after the race."

The presence of veterinarians is where real life deviates from the movie. At the end of Hidalgo, viewers weren't sure the horse would survive. The horses are monitored carefully in AERC events.

"Usually for a 50-mile race you'll have a stop at about 20 miles and another at 35 miles," Kibler said. "They're like pit stops in NASCAR, but they're vet stops. The vets check the horses. It's a very safe sport for the horses. You have 30 minutes for the horse's heart rate to drop. If it doesn't drop in time, you're disqualified. They watch the horses very carefully.

"The motto of the AERC is ‘To finish is to win.' You have to get it done (50-mile race) in 12 hours. That includes the vet stop time, and the vet stop time is around an hour. Your moving time is about 10 hours."

He said a top caliber horse can average about 12.5 miles per hour in a 50-mile race.

The nearest AERC races are held in Salem.

For more information on the sport, or gaited horses, go to www.shawneesunrisefarm.net.

les.winkeler@thesouthern.com / 618-351-5088

Local volunteer wins 2010 State Trail Worker Award

Cheiflandcitizen.com - Full Article

By The Staff
Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Horse lover Helen Koehler, of Levy County, was recently rewarded for her on-going contributions to the trail systems in the area at the 20th National Trails Awards symposium held in Chattanooga, Tennessee in November.

The award "recognizes an individual that has demonstrated outstanding contributions and provided consistent support for trail planning, development, or maintenance."
A horse enthusiast since the 1980’s, she purchased her first horse and began enjoying trail riding and horse camping. This interest evolved into volunteering on various trail projects, as well as, serving on local land-use committees in the Gainesville area.

She moved to Levy County in 1995 with her husband Buck and together, they have marked over 100 miles of shared use trails. Additionally, they annually host the Goethe Challenge endurance ride which raises money for the Forest.

In her spare time, Koehler also serves as the Trail Grants Program Liaison for the American Endurance Riding Conference, chairs the Levy County Tourist Development Council, is president of The Goethe Trail, Inc., which promotes nature based equine tourism and actively participates on Florida’s Recreational Trails Program Committee.
She assists local, state and federal agencies with design and layout of equestrian trail facilities...

Read more here:
http://www.chieflandcitizen.com/content/local-volunteer-wins-2010-state-trail-worker-award