Enduranceridestuff Blog - Karen Chaton
At the March 2012 convention in Reno, NV last week, the AERC board of directors voted to approve a motion to make the Decade Teams an official award category!!!
This is great as it is a way to encourage riders to set long term goals for their horses in the sport of endurance. I think it’s great to have both short term and long term goals. Short term = what I want to accomplish this ride season. Long term = what I want to accomplish with the horse over the length of his career.
It has been great to see my idea take hold and become important to so many people. I think it’s wonderful that so many are choosing to make this a goal for themselves and for their horse. I never had any idea that the Decade Team idea would become popular enough to eventually become an official AERC award. For so many years I was told by many that the board would never vote to add on another award. What a nice surprise that they did, and that there was so much support for it!
Read more here:
http://enduranceridestuff.com/blog/2012/03/good-news-aerc-decade-teams-official/
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Karen Chaton Interviewed on Stable Scoop HorseRadioNetwork
March 9 2012
Stable Scoop Episode 186
Endurance Riding with Karen Chaton as she explains the thrilling sport and the equipment that goes along. Plus, we chat up some cool helmet covers on Tack and Habit. Listen here:
http://stablescoop.horseradionetwork.com/2012/03/09/stable-scoop-episode-186-the-long-and-shiny/
Monday, March 12, 2012
The Standardbred endurance award winner announced
Harnesslink.com
10 March 2012
Harnesslink Admin
In May 2011, the USTA announced a partnership with the American Endurance Ride Conference to award the Standardbred that recorded the most miles ridden during the ride season. It is only fitting that the 2011 award winner was also a winner on the racetrack, East Meets West.
Patricia Clark of North Carolina now has East Meets West or "Eli" as he is affectionately known. The 7-year-old gelding by Western Paradise recorded one racing win at Plainridge Racecourse at the age of two and made $6,707. Clark got Eli from New Vocations Racehorse Adoption based in Ohio, and in 2009 they competed in their first endurance ride.
"It never fails when I attend an endurance ride with Eli, someone has to look him up and down and say, what kind of horse is that?," Clark says. "I wanted a horse that had a gentle temperament, athleticism, and the potential to have a variety of gaits. I found all of those in Eli. He has legs of iron from years of jogging on the racetrack. He can trot for hours at 10-13 mph and his bursts of speed dazzle the imagination."
During the 2011 ride season (Dec. 1, 2010-Nov. 30, 2011) Eli and Clark recorded 260 miles in sanctioned AERC rides. In total, 16 Standardbreds competed for the award. Winners of various awards will be honored at the AERC convention at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nev., on Saturday (March 10). While Clark was not able to make the trip West, she and Eli will be announced as winners by the emcees during the national awards banquet.
"I am deeply honored that my Eli is the first recipient of this prestigious honor," Clark said when told Eli would be the inaugural winner of the Standardbred Endurance Award. "He exudes everything that I love about Standardbreds and I can't think of a better representative for the breed and for ex-racehorses. I feel that this award has and will continue to encourage those of us competing on Standardbreds to continue in this sport."
Since 1996, the Standardbred Equine Program has worked with off-the-track Standardbreds and their owners to educate the general public on the many disciplines at which Standardbreds excel once they are retired from racing. For more information about the SEP at the USTA, visit standardbreds.ustrotting.com, or send e-mail inquiries to sep@ustrotting.com.
by Jessica Schroeder, U.S. Trotting Association Outreach
Courtesy of the US Trotting Association's Web Newsroom
10 March 2012
Harnesslink Admin
In May 2011, the USTA announced a partnership with the American Endurance Ride Conference to award the Standardbred that recorded the most miles ridden during the ride season. It is only fitting that the 2011 award winner was also a winner on the racetrack, East Meets West.
Patricia Clark of North Carolina now has East Meets West or "Eli" as he is affectionately known. The 7-year-old gelding by Western Paradise recorded one racing win at Plainridge Racecourse at the age of two and made $6,707. Clark got Eli from New Vocations Racehorse Adoption based in Ohio, and in 2009 they competed in their first endurance ride.
"It never fails when I attend an endurance ride with Eli, someone has to look him up and down and say, what kind of horse is that?," Clark says. "I wanted a horse that had a gentle temperament, athleticism, and the potential to have a variety of gaits. I found all of those in Eli. He has legs of iron from years of jogging on the racetrack. He can trot for hours at 10-13 mph and his bursts of speed dazzle the imagination."
During the 2011 ride season (Dec. 1, 2010-Nov. 30, 2011) Eli and Clark recorded 260 miles in sanctioned AERC rides. In total, 16 Standardbreds competed for the award. Winners of various awards will be honored at the AERC convention at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nev., on Saturday (March 10). While Clark was not able to make the trip West, she and Eli will be announced as winners by the emcees during the national awards banquet.
"I am deeply honored that my Eli is the first recipient of this prestigious honor," Clark said when told Eli would be the inaugural winner of the Standardbred Endurance Award. "He exudes everything that I love about Standardbreds and I can't think of a better representative for the breed and for ex-racehorses. I feel that this award has and will continue to encourage those of us competing on Standardbreds to continue in this sport."
Since 1996, the Standardbred Equine Program has worked with off-the-track Standardbreds and their owners to educate the general public on the many disciplines at which Standardbreds excel once they are retired from racing. For more information about the SEP at the USTA, visit standardbreds.ustrotting.com, or send e-mail inquiries to sep@ustrotting.com.
by Jessica Schroeder, U.S. Trotting Association Outreach
Courtesy of the US Trotting Association's Web Newsroom
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
"…but it wasn't the horse's fault!" - A New Book by Julie Suhr
Wednesday March 7 2012
Julie Suhr, author of "Ten Feet Tall, Still", has released a second book, titled, "…but it wasn't the horse's fault! - a rambling catchall."
With illustrations by Judith Ogus, readers can expect another insightful and delightful horse-inspired work from one of endurance riding's most passionate champions.
"Bob Suhr [Julie's husband] kept a file he referred to as a 'catchall' in which he placed things he could not exactly categorize," Julie says. "This book is my catchall, no continuity from chapter to chapter. It is just a series of reflections and recollections."
Each book comes with an E.R.J. (Endurance Ride Junkie) trailer decal designed by Steph Teeter, and all profits from the sale of this book go to The Center for Equine Health School of Veterinary Medicine in Davis, California.
Julie will be available for words of wisdom and autographs at the AERC convention in Reno this weekend, March 9-10, with copies of her book for sale at the EasyCare booth. If you can't get to the convention, you can purchase the book through Julie at:
Marinera Publishing
100 Marinera Road
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
marinera@aol.com
Fax & Tel: 831-335-5933
$24.95 plus $5 shipping and handling
For more more information, see
http://www.endurance.net/juliesuhr/
and
http://www.marinerapublishing.com/index.html
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Henryville tornados and Clark State Forest horse trails with popular endurance rides
Photosbydemott.com - Full Article
by Peter Demott
Patty has participated in AERC sanctioned endurance rides in Clark State Forest for many years. Bill Wilson’s farm has provided camping for the events of both the Chicken Chase Endurance Ride and Top of the Rock Endurance ride that occur each year on the trails of Clark State Forest and draw many riders from Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky and even further away because these rides are so popular. In the fall there is another endurance ride there called Spook Run. Several people we know have been accounted for in that they were in other parts of the country when the devastating tornado’s came through Henryville, Indiana. We have not heard if their farms were affected by the storm or not, but here is one story which indicates that are many horses in the area affected.
http://www.louisville.com/content/horse-owners-lose-horses-march-2-tornadoes-some-lost-their-whole-herds-equine-news
A couple of years ago a tornado went through parts of the Clark State Forest and ride managers and volunteers were able to clear the trails so that the rides could occur, but with much of the town of Henryville wiped off the face of the earth, I am wondering what will happen to these two endurance rides. My wife, Patty has always told me how beautiful the vistas are that can be seen from the horse trails that make up the events. I usually provide photography for riders in these events, so although I see some of the trails, I don’t get the entire effect of riding 50 miles of trails.
We had just received the ride application flyer for Chicken Chase via email about a week or so ago, before the storm.
Help is pouring into the area from area churches and the Red Cross. Where as my photography of the area has always shown beautiful wooded trails and endurance riders coming down those trails, the photography that is being shown now are pictures of the town of Henryville and hillsides devoid of trees and piled with ruble.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/mar/05/us-tornadoes-toddler-field-dies?newsfeed=true
More stories, photos, video here:
http://www.photosbypdemott.com/2012/03/henryville-tornados-and-clark-state-forest-horse-trails-with-popular-endurance-rides/
by Peter Demott
Patty has participated in AERC sanctioned endurance rides in Clark State Forest for many years. Bill Wilson’s farm has provided camping for the events of both the Chicken Chase Endurance Ride and Top of the Rock Endurance ride that occur each year on the trails of Clark State Forest and draw many riders from Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky and even further away because these rides are so popular. In the fall there is another endurance ride there called Spook Run. Several people we know have been accounted for in that they were in other parts of the country when the devastating tornado’s came through Henryville, Indiana. We have not heard if their farms were affected by the storm or not, but here is one story which indicates that are many horses in the area affected.
http://www.louisville.com/content/horse-owners-lose-horses-march-2-tornadoes-some-lost-their-whole-herds-equine-news
A couple of years ago a tornado went through parts of the Clark State Forest and ride managers and volunteers were able to clear the trails so that the rides could occur, but with much of the town of Henryville wiped off the face of the earth, I am wondering what will happen to these two endurance rides. My wife, Patty has always told me how beautiful the vistas are that can be seen from the horse trails that make up the events. I usually provide photography for riders in these events, so although I see some of the trails, I don’t get the entire effect of riding 50 miles of trails.
We had just received the ride application flyer for Chicken Chase via email about a week or so ago, before the storm.
Help is pouring into the area from area churches and the Red Cross. Where as my photography of the area has always shown beautiful wooded trails and endurance riders coming down those trails, the photography that is being shown now are pictures of the town of Henryville and hillsides devoid of trees and piled with ruble.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/mar/05/us-tornadoes-toddler-field-dies?newsfeed=true
More stories, photos, video here:
http://www.photosbypdemott.com/2012/03/henryville-tornados-and-clark-state-forest-horse-trails-with-popular-endurance-rides/
Monday, March 05, 2012
Help Equine Tornado Victims
March 5 2012
Are you looking for a way to help the victims of Friday's tornadoes?
The Kentucky Horse Council is collecting donations for our U.S. Equine Disaster Relief Fund, which will help provide feed & supplies to horses affected by the tornadoes.
The U.S. Disaster Relief Fund exists to support state and local efforts to provide feed and housing for affected horses in natural disasters. We provide the funding to organizations such as a county extension service, and they in turn coordinate the relief efforts, such as purchasing hay, for owners/horses that need it.
We will be providing financial assistance to many organizations this week with the U.S. Disaster Relief Fund, and will need financial support to continue these efforts. If you would like to contribute to the fund, please click here to make a tax deductible donation: http://www.kentuckyhorse.org/disaster-relief/. The horses of Kentucky will thank you!
Do You or Your County Need Assistance?
If you are an individual looking for assistance due to last week's tornadoes, please contact our office at (859) 367-0509 or info@kentuckyhorse.org.
If you are a state or local agency who would like to help provide assistance to equines in your area, please click here for a printable pdf application form: http://www.kentuckyhorse.org/attachments/wysiwyg/5/US_Disaster_Relief_Application%281%29.pdf Fill out the form and send it back to our office, and we'll be glad to help.
________________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities through the Kentucky Equine Networking Association, the Kentucky Breeds & Discipline Council, trail riding advocacy, equine health information, programs protecting the welfare of horses, and membership benefits including a $1Million personal liability insurance.
Are you looking for a way to help the victims of Friday's tornadoes?
The Kentucky Horse Council is collecting donations for our U.S. Equine Disaster Relief Fund, which will help provide feed & supplies to horses affected by the tornadoes.
The U.S. Disaster Relief Fund exists to support state and local efforts to provide feed and housing for affected horses in natural disasters. We provide the funding to organizations such as a county extension service, and they in turn coordinate the relief efforts, such as purchasing hay, for owners/horses that need it.
We will be providing financial assistance to many organizations this week with the U.S. Disaster Relief Fund, and will need financial support to continue these efforts. If you would like to contribute to the fund, please click here to make a tax deductible donation: http://www.kentuckyhorse.org/disaster-relief/. The horses of Kentucky will thank you!
Do You or Your County Need Assistance?
If you are an individual looking for assistance due to last week's tornadoes, please contact our office at (859) 367-0509 or info@kentuckyhorse.org.
If you are a state or local agency who would like to help provide assistance to equines in your area, please click here for a printable pdf application form: http://www.kentuckyhorse.org/attachments/wysiwyg/5/US_Disaster_Relief_Application%281%29.pdf Fill out the form and send it back to our office, and we'll be glad to help.
________________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL - The Kentucky Horse Council is a non-profit organization dedicated, through education and leadership, to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community. The Kentucky Horse Council provides educational programs and information, outreach and communication to Kentucky horse owners and enthusiasts, equine professional networking opportunities through the Kentucky Equine Networking Association, the Kentucky Breeds & Discipline Council, trail riding advocacy, equine health information, programs protecting the welfare of horses, and membership benefits including a $1Million personal liability insurance.
Tornado trail damage cleanup - Henryville, Indiana
March 5
The Pekin Saddle club is organizing a couple of work weekends for clearing the trails in the Clark State Forest. BarbFurguson is the person to e-mail if you can help, please read her note below. The endurance rides in the area go past the saddle club, it is just a mile or so past Bill Wilson's place on the same road. Daniel Boone Distance Riders will have many more work days that will be out of Bill Wilson's farm, will keep you updated to the details when they become available any help will be much appreciated.
Connie Caudill
March 5
Clean up days for Tornado damage for Horse Trails, Jackson Road area that is betweenPekin Saddle Club and Deam Lake. March 10 & 11. Also March 18 and March 24 & 25. Headquarters will be Pekin Saddle Club for March 10 & 11. This area took a direct hit and looks very bad. Starting at 9:00am each day with sign in sheet and permits for ATV's, 4-Wheelers, tractors and skid loaders. Please let me know later in the week if you can come and help. More information as we we get it put together. Volunteers can come in on Friday evening if needed. Bring Horse trailers and stay overnight. More info later this week.
Barb Furguson
****
You can also Volunteer your time, Give blood, or Donate money to the Red Cross at
http://www.redcross.org/
The Pekin Saddle club is organizing a couple of work weekends for clearing the trails in the Clark State Forest. BarbFurguson is the person to e-mail if you can help, please read her note below. The endurance rides in the area go past the saddle club, it is just a mile or so past Bill Wilson's place on the same road. Daniel Boone Distance Riders will have many more work days that will be out of Bill Wilson's farm, will keep you updated to the details when they become available any help will be much appreciated.
Connie Caudill
March 5
Clean up days for Tornado damage for Horse Trails, Jackson Road area that is betweenPekin Saddle Club and Deam Lake. March 10 & 11. Also March 18 and March 24 & 25. Headquarters will be Pekin Saddle Club for March 10 & 11. This area took a direct hit and looks very bad. Starting at 9:00am each day with sign in sheet and permits for ATV's, 4-Wheelers, tractors and skid loaders. Please let me know later in the week if you can come and help. More information as we we get it put together. Volunteers can come in on Friday evening if needed. Bring Horse trailers and stay overnight. More info later this week.
Barb Furguson
****
You can also Volunteer your time, Give blood, or Donate money to the Red Cross at
http://www.redcross.org/
Sunday, March 04, 2012
The Recreational Trails Program Needs Your Help -- Right Now!
Dear Members of the CRT Council of Advisors:
The Recreational Trails Program needs your help -- right now!
As soon as this Tuesday, March 6th, there will be action in the U.S. Senate on the transportation bill, also known as MAP-21 or S. 1813. We need to make sure that the Klobuchar amendment -- Amendment #1661 -- to protect the RTP and its dedicated funding is part of the final bill.
Seven Senators from both parties have agreed to join Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to cosponsor the amendment: Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Burr (R-NC), James Risch (R-ID), Bernard Sanders (D-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and Mark Udall (D-CO). And we believe we have solid commitments of support from others.
That support is great news, but it’s not enough to ensure that the amendment is accepted. We need a clear majority of Senators pledged to supporting this amendment and willing to stand up for their trail-loving constituents, regardless of pressure from party leaders.
Please call or e-mail your Senators about the Klobuchar amendment. If one (or both -- congratulations, Colorado!) of your Senators is a sponsor, thank them for their support and ask for their active help with the amendment this week. If they have not yet agreed to support the amendment, ask for their pledge now. Tell them:
● Unless the bill is amended, MAP-21 will effectively eliminate the Recreational Trails Program and seriously damage, if not destroy, the balanced system of trails for all users that the RTP has allowed the states to develop and maintain over the last 20 years. The RTP leverages hundreds of millions of dollars of additional support from other sources for trails, encourages productive cooperation among trail users, and facilitates healthy outdoor recreation and associated, badly needed economic activity in countless communities. Without the RTP, organized trail planning and development will simply vanish in many areas of the country.
● Right now, at an annual funding level of $85 million, the RTP receives less than 42% of the federal gas taxes paid every year by America’s nonhighway recreationists. Unless amended, MAP-21 will convert a legitimate user fee into an unfair tax, with recreationists subsidizing commercial and private highway users.
● The return of gas taxes to trail users through the RTP is in keeping with the user-pay, user-benefit philosophy of the Highway Trust Fund. Ending dedicated funding for RTP takes these gas taxes away from the people who pay them. Ending dedicated funding for RTP is bad public policy and just plain wrong.
Don’t let anyone tell you that another amendment has taken care of the RTP. That is not true. We will let you know if anything like that happens.
If you don’t know how to reach your Senator, go to www.senate.gov. In the upper right corner of the Web page, there will be a link to contact information.
Your previous help has already made a very big difference.
● Close to 400 national, regional, state and local organizations signed letters to every single Senator supporting the Klobuchar amendment. You made that happen!
● Seven members of the Senate – Democrats and Republicans – agreed to cosponsor the Klobuchar amendment. You made that happen!
● And in the House of Representatives, Rep. Steve King withdrew his amendment to eliminate the RTP from the House bill. You made that happen!
So now we ask for your help again. You know how important the RTP is to your state.
Make sure your Senators know too.
Thank you very much.
Marianne Wesley Fowler and Derrick A. Crandall
Co-Chairs, Coalition for Recreational Trails
The Recreational Trails Program needs your help -- right now!
As soon as this Tuesday, March 6th, there will be action in the U.S. Senate on the transportation bill, also known as MAP-21 or S. 1813. We need to make sure that the Klobuchar amendment -- Amendment #1661 -- to protect the RTP and its dedicated funding is part of the final bill.
Seven Senators from both parties have agreed to join Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to cosponsor the amendment: Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Burr (R-NC), James Risch (R-ID), Bernard Sanders (D-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and Mark Udall (D-CO). And we believe we have solid commitments of support from others.
That support is great news, but it’s not enough to ensure that the amendment is accepted. We need a clear majority of Senators pledged to supporting this amendment and willing to stand up for their trail-loving constituents, regardless of pressure from party leaders.
Please call or e-mail your Senators about the Klobuchar amendment. If one (or both -- congratulations, Colorado!) of your Senators is a sponsor, thank them for their support and ask for their active help with the amendment this week. If they have not yet agreed to support the amendment, ask for their pledge now. Tell them:
● Unless the bill is amended, MAP-21 will effectively eliminate the Recreational Trails Program and seriously damage, if not destroy, the balanced system of trails for all users that the RTP has allowed the states to develop and maintain over the last 20 years. The RTP leverages hundreds of millions of dollars of additional support from other sources for trails, encourages productive cooperation among trail users, and facilitates healthy outdoor recreation and associated, badly needed economic activity in countless communities. Without the RTP, organized trail planning and development will simply vanish in many areas of the country.
● Right now, at an annual funding level of $85 million, the RTP receives less than 42% of the federal gas taxes paid every year by America’s nonhighway recreationists. Unless amended, MAP-21 will convert a legitimate user fee into an unfair tax, with recreationists subsidizing commercial and private highway users.
● The return of gas taxes to trail users through the RTP is in keeping with the user-pay, user-benefit philosophy of the Highway Trust Fund. Ending dedicated funding for RTP takes these gas taxes away from the people who pay them. Ending dedicated funding for RTP is bad public policy and just plain wrong.
Don’t let anyone tell you that another amendment has taken care of the RTP. That is not true. We will let you know if anything like that happens.
If you don’t know how to reach your Senator, go to www.senate.gov. In the upper right corner of the Web page, there will be a link to contact information.
Your previous help has already made a very big difference.
● Close to 400 national, regional, state and local organizations signed letters to every single Senator supporting the Klobuchar amendment. You made that happen!
● Seven members of the Senate – Democrats and Republicans – agreed to cosponsor the Klobuchar amendment. You made that happen!
● And in the House of Representatives, Rep. Steve King withdrew his amendment to eliminate the RTP from the House bill. You made that happen!
So now we ask for your help again. You know how important the RTP is to your state.
Make sure your Senators know too.
Thank you very much.
Marianne Wesley Fowler and Derrick A. Crandall
Co-Chairs, Coalition for Recreational Trails
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Tevis Talks with Julie Suhr
March 3 2012
You are cordially invited to come share an intimate dinner and talk with Julie Suhr. Enjoy this special interactive event as this amazing woman shares her experiences.
The event will be held Thursday, March 29, 2012, 6:00pm in the Tahoe Building at the Auburn Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn, California. Tickets: Adults $20 (at the door $25), Children $7. Available at Echo Valley Ranch, Christensens, by contacting Leigh Bacco @ leighbacco@ymail.com, or through the WSTF office,
wstf@teviscup.org
Tel 530-823-7282
You are cordially invited to come share an intimate dinner and talk with Julie Suhr. Enjoy this special interactive event as this amazing woman shares her experiences.
The event will be held Thursday, March 29, 2012, 6:00pm in the Tahoe Building at the Auburn Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn, California. Tickets: Adults $20 (at the door $25), Children $7. Available at Echo Valley Ranch, Christensens, by contacting Leigh Bacco @ leighbacco@ymail.com, or through the WSTF office,
wstf@teviscup.org
Tel 530-823-7282
Tevis Reception at AERC Convention
March 3 2012
The Western States Trail Foundation and Western States Trail Endowment Fund invites you to attend their reception on Friday, March 9, 2012 at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, at the AERC Conference in Reno, Nevada.
Tevis Ride Director Chuck Stalley says, "The Board of Governors of the Western States Trail Foundation is announcing the implementation of the Legacy Buckle Program for this year’s ride. Details of this exciting new program will be shared at the reception on March 9th. This gathering has a reputation for being an impressive event with opportunities to spend time with heroes and villains of the Tevis organization. I hope to see you there and hear your Tevis stories."
In addition, there will be a showing of "They Crossed the Mountains," the history of the Western States Trail, and other endurance videos and historic videos.
Reception begins at 4:30 PM in the Tahoe Room.
See http://www.aerc.org/upload/2012ConventionFlyer.pdf for the AERC flyer.
See http://teviscup.org/images/reception.pdf for the WSTF flyer.
The Western States Trail Foundation and Western States Trail Endowment Fund invites you to attend their reception on Friday, March 9, 2012 at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, at the AERC Conference in Reno, Nevada.
Tevis Ride Director Chuck Stalley says, "The Board of Governors of the Western States Trail Foundation is announcing the implementation of the Legacy Buckle Program for this year’s ride. Details of this exciting new program will be shared at the reception on March 9th. This gathering has a reputation for being an impressive event with opportunities to spend time with heroes and villains of the Tevis organization. I hope to see you there and hear your Tevis stories."
In addition, there will be a showing of "They Crossed the Mountains," the history of the Western States Trail, and other endurance videos and historic videos.
Reception begins at 4:30 PM in the Tahoe Room.
See http://www.aerc.org/upload/2012ConventionFlyer.pdf for the AERC flyer.
See http://teviscup.org/images/reception.pdf for the WSTF flyer.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Springdale Romp enjoys warm weather
EACourier.com - Full Article
Posted: Sunday, February 26, 2012
contributed article
The second annual Springdale Romp Endurance Ride was held Feb. 3, 4 and 5.
Readers may remember that, last year, the ride faced the coldest weather in Arizona history. What a difference a year makes. This year, riders and horses enjoyed warm weather, good, well-marked trails and great facilities at the Graham County Fairgrounds.
The event began with riders “vetting in” their horses Thursday for Friday’s ride. At 6 p.m., a potluck dinner was held, with a ride meeting afterwards to explain trails and answer questions.
Riders came from Canada, Indiana, Kentucky, Texas, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. One rider, Ute Schrimpf, flew in that week from Germany just for Springdale Romp and went back Tuesday...
Read more here:
http://www.eacourier.com/news/springdale-romp-enjoys-warm-weather/article_e2ff86ba-6039-11e1-9fbe-0019bb2963f4.html
No comments:
Posted: Sunday, February 26, 2012
contributed article
The second annual Springdale Romp Endurance Ride was held Feb. 3, 4 and 5.
Readers may remember that, last year, the ride faced the coldest weather in Arizona history. What a difference a year makes. This year, riders and horses enjoyed warm weather, good, well-marked trails and great facilities at the Graham County Fairgrounds.
The event began with riders “vetting in” their horses Thursday for Friday’s ride. At 6 p.m., a potluck dinner was held, with a ride meeting afterwards to explain trails and answer questions.
Riders came from Canada, Indiana, Kentucky, Texas, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. One rider, Ute Schrimpf, flew in that week from Germany just for Springdale Romp and went back Tuesday...
Read more here:
http://www.eacourier.com/news/springdale-romp-enjoys-warm-weather/article_e2ff86ba-6039-11e1-9fbe-0019bb2963f4.html
No comments:
Friday, February 24, 2012
Maynesboro Stud Memorial Ride planning well underway
Berlindailysun.com
By Barbara Tetreault
Feb 24, 2012 12:00 am
BERLIN – The eyes of the horse world will be on Berlin this September when the Maynesboro Stud Memorial Ride is expected to draw endurance riders from across New England and beyond.
The event, being organized by the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society, celebrates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Maynesboro Stud by William Robinson Brown. An avid horseman and endurance rider, Brown was considered the most important breeder of Arabian horses in the United States between 1912 and 1933. The lineage of Arabian horses he developed is still recognized today among horse breeders. Brown was also a member of the family that founded and operated the Brown Company paper mill complex in Berlin-Gorham.
Walter Nadeau, of the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society, said the planning for the Saturday, Sept. 15 event is well underway. While the 50-mile endurance race will be the main focus, there will also be a 25-mile ride and a 12-mile pleasure ride. The event is open to all breeds of horse although it is expected to be of particular interest to Arabian horse owners. Nadeau said the historical society is in the process of sending out fund-raising packets to area businesses and Arabian horse owners seeking donations to help offset the cost of putting on the event.
“I'm confident we'll get some major sponsors,” he said.
Nadeau said the historical society will also be applying to the Arabian Horse Association for a grant. He said he believes the various fund-raising efforts, combined with proceeds from the entry fee, will provide the necessary money to cover expenses.
The historical society is also seeking volunteers willing to help out with the event. Nadeau said he has contacted the UNH Extension Service to see if 4-H horse owners are interested in volunteering.
“I am going to need help,” he said.
The route for the endurance race has been set and Nadeau said he has received the necessary permission from 17 different landowners, including the state of New Hampshire. The race will started at the Brown Company barns on the East Milan Road where Brown raised his horses. From there the route will enter the woods across from the barns on property owned by Barry Kelley. The route will travel five miles on various wood roads and come out at White Mountain Lumber Company's saw mill. It will then travel along the East Milan Road, crossing the Androscoggin River at the Twelfth Street bridge, and traveling up Twelfth Street, connecting with the snowmobile system on Cates Hill. The From there, the route will continue to the Jericho Mountain State Park where it will run along the Head Pond section of the ATV trail system. The horses will follow the same route back, finishing at the Brown barns. Along the way, it will pass by the high school soccer field to coincide with Berlin High Homecoming festivities.
Nadeau said the goal of an endurance race to to provide a challenging course for the horses and said the route put together has some steep sections. Along the route, the horses must have three mandatory veterinarian stops - Two will be held at the Bisson Farm on Cates Hill and the third will come about 25 miles into the race. Including the mandatory stops, Nadeau said it will take riders six to eight hours to complete the ride.
Assisting the historical society in putting together the route have been Tom and Sandy Hutchinson of Bethel, Maine, who have competed in such events. The rides are sanctioned by the American Endurance Riders Conference and the Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association.
Brown has one surviving child, Nancy Lee Snow of Falmouth, Maine, and she has pledged to try and make the event.
People interested in donating or volunteering for the Maynesboro Stud Memorial Ride should contact Nadeau at 752-7928 or e-mail wjnadeau@hotmail.com.
Picture (clockwise from right) W.R. Brown's premiere Arabian stallion, Abu Zeyd, which sired 46 foals. A current photo of the Maynesboro Stud Barn which housed Brown's Arabians. The Arabian horses outside the barn and in the fields. (Photos provided by the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society)
By Barbara Tetreault
Feb 24, 2012 12:00 am
BERLIN – The eyes of the horse world will be on Berlin this September when the Maynesboro Stud Memorial Ride is expected to draw endurance riders from across New England and beyond.
The event, being organized by the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society, celebrates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Maynesboro Stud by William Robinson Brown. An avid horseman and endurance rider, Brown was considered the most important breeder of Arabian horses in the United States between 1912 and 1933. The lineage of Arabian horses he developed is still recognized today among horse breeders. Brown was also a member of the family that founded and operated the Brown Company paper mill complex in Berlin-Gorham.
Walter Nadeau, of the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society, said the planning for the Saturday, Sept. 15 event is well underway. While the 50-mile endurance race will be the main focus, there will also be a 25-mile ride and a 12-mile pleasure ride. The event is open to all breeds of horse although it is expected to be of particular interest to Arabian horse owners. Nadeau said the historical society is in the process of sending out fund-raising packets to area businesses and Arabian horse owners seeking donations to help offset the cost of putting on the event.
“I'm confident we'll get some major sponsors,” he said.
Nadeau said the historical society will also be applying to the Arabian Horse Association for a grant. He said he believes the various fund-raising efforts, combined with proceeds from the entry fee, will provide the necessary money to cover expenses.
The historical society is also seeking volunteers willing to help out with the event. Nadeau said he has contacted the UNH Extension Service to see if 4-H horse owners are interested in volunteering.
“I am going to need help,” he said.
The route for the endurance race has been set and Nadeau said he has received the necessary permission from 17 different landowners, including the state of New Hampshire. The race will started at the Brown Company barns on the East Milan Road where Brown raised his horses. From there the route will enter the woods across from the barns on property owned by Barry Kelley. The route will travel five miles on various wood roads and come out at White Mountain Lumber Company's saw mill. It will then travel along the East Milan Road, crossing the Androscoggin River at the Twelfth Street bridge, and traveling up Twelfth Street, connecting with the snowmobile system on Cates Hill. The From there, the route will continue to the Jericho Mountain State Park where it will run along the Head Pond section of the ATV trail system. The horses will follow the same route back, finishing at the Brown barns. Along the way, it will pass by the high school soccer field to coincide with Berlin High Homecoming festivities.
Nadeau said the goal of an endurance race to to provide a challenging course for the horses and said the route put together has some steep sections. Along the route, the horses must have three mandatory veterinarian stops - Two will be held at the Bisson Farm on Cates Hill and the third will come about 25 miles into the race. Including the mandatory stops, Nadeau said it will take riders six to eight hours to complete the ride.
Assisting the historical society in putting together the route have been Tom and Sandy Hutchinson of Bethel, Maine, who have competed in such events. The rides are sanctioned by the American Endurance Riders Conference and the Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association.
Brown has one surviving child, Nancy Lee Snow of Falmouth, Maine, and she has pledged to try and make the event.
People interested in donating or volunteering for the Maynesboro Stud Memorial Ride should contact Nadeau at 752-7928 or e-mail wjnadeau@hotmail.com.
Picture (clockwise from right) W.R. Brown's premiere Arabian stallion, Abu Zeyd, which sired 46 foals. A current photo of the Maynesboro Stud Barn which housed Brown's Arabians. The Arabian horses outside the barn and in the fields. (Photos provided by the Berlin and Coos County Historical Society)
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Alabama Wagon Train prepares for 32nd annual ride to Montgomery, hopes it won't be the last
Blog.al.com - Full Story
February 21 2012
By Amber Acker, al.com
Montgomery Alabama - -- In a few weeks, riding enthusiasts from around the country will gather for an annual horseback and wagon ride that tours the natural landscape of Alabama, starting in Talladega and ending at the state rodeo in Montgomery.
For a generation, the Alabama Wagon Train has culminated at the Southeastern Livestock Exposition and Rodeo, with participants forgoing modern transportation in exchange for the chance to experience travel in the style of their ancestors.
Now, the Alabama Wagon Train faces hard times. A lack of sponsors, traffic issues and other problems may prevent the tradition from continuing after this year.
The last founding member and "train boss," Don Thomas, is retiring and the Sand Mountain Saddle Ranch is no longer able to sponsor the ride.
The train started in 1980 when a group of five men in the Sand Mountain Saddle Club decided to ride in wagons and on horseback to the exposition and rodeo instead of driving. While at the time it just seemed a chance to bond with each other and their animals, the idea soon spawned into a tradition that attracted horse enthusiasts from around the country.
"They had an idea to try it out and just do something different that grew from 40 riders to 72 wagons and 1,200 horses," said assistant train boss Ronnie Jones...
Read more here:
http://blog.al.com/montgomery/2012/02/the_alabama_wagon_train_prepar.html
February 21 2012
By Amber Acker, al.com
Montgomery Alabama - -- In a few weeks, riding enthusiasts from around the country will gather for an annual horseback and wagon ride that tours the natural landscape of Alabama, starting in Talladega and ending at the state rodeo in Montgomery.
For a generation, the Alabama Wagon Train has culminated at the Southeastern Livestock Exposition and Rodeo, with participants forgoing modern transportation in exchange for the chance to experience travel in the style of their ancestors.
Now, the Alabama Wagon Train faces hard times. A lack of sponsors, traffic issues and other problems may prevent the tradition from continuing after this year.
The last founding member and "train boss," Don Thomas, is retiring and the Sand Mountain Saddle Ranch is no longer able to sponsor the ride.
The train started in 1980 when a group of five men in the Sand Mountain Saddle Club decided to ride in wagons and on horseback to the exposition and rodeo instead of driving. While at the time it just seemed a chance to bond with each other and their animals, the idea soon spawned into a tradition that attracted horse enthusiasts from around the country.
"They had an idea to try it out and just do something different that grew from 40 riders to 72 wagons and 1,200 horses," said assistant train boss Ronnie Jones...
Read more here:
http://blog.al.com/montgomery/2012/02/the_alabama_wagon_train_prepar.html
Sunday, February 19, 2012
The Great Endurance Horse Race begins
Pagosasun.com - Full Article
By John Motter
PagosaSUN.com columnist
Thursday, February 16, 2012
We are continuing the story of The Great Endurance Horse Race, sponsored by the Denver Post in 1908.
One of the entrants was William H. (Billy) Kern, a pioneer of Pagosa Country.
It was six in the morning of May 27, 1908, when the Denver Post sponsoring train dubbed the “Pony Express” pulled into Evanston, Wyo., the starting point of the race.
The finish line was 600 miles away, in Denver.
Late season snow flurries covered the ground. Evanston seemed determined to set a new Wyoming record for rip-roaring Western hospitality.
Out of the freight cars came the horses, some loaded at Denver and others at various stops along the way.
Dick Turpin, a coal-black half-breed thoroughbred came out bucking and, with his rider, Jack Smith, the only entry from New Mexico put on a miniature rodeo for the enthusiastic crowd.
Adding to the excitement were two white broncos: Bob Brennan’s Luxus, and Otto Rush’s Scotty; and another thoroughbred called Archie. Almost unnoticed by the gaggle of reporters was a chunky strawberry roan, picked up in Severance, Colo., and led by a big, unassuming cowboy...
Read more here:
http://pagosasun.com/archives/2012/02February/021612/pagosapast.html
By John Motter
PagosaSUN.com columnist
Thursday, February 16, 2012
We are continuing the story of The Great Endurance Horse Race, sponsored by the Denver Post in 1908.
One of the entrants was William H. (Billy) Kern, a pioneer of Pagosa Country.
It was six in the morning of May 27, 1908, when the Denver Post sponsoring train dubbed the “Pony Express” pulled into Evanston, Wyo., the starting point of the race.
The finish line was 600 miles away, in Denver.
Late season snow flurries covered the ground. Evanston seemed determined to set a new Wyoming record for rip-roaring Western hospitality.
Out of the freight cars came the horses, some loaded at Denver and others at various stops along the way.
Dick Turpin, a coal-black half-breed thoroughbred came out bucking and, with his rider, Jack Smith, the only entry from New Mexico put on a miniature rodeo for the enthusiastic crowd.
Adding to the excitement were two white broncos: Bob Brennan’s Luxus, and Otto Rush’s Scotty; and another thoroughbred called Archie. Almost unnoticed by the gaggle of reporters was a chunky strawberry roan, picked up in Severance, Colo., and led by a big, unassuming cowboy...
Read more here:
http://pagosasun.com/archives/2012/02February/021612/pagosapast.html
Saturday, February 18, 2012
A horse story to beat them all
Pagosasun.com - Full Article
By John M. Motter
PagosaSUN.com columnist
Thursday, February 9, 2012
My favorite horse story was printed in a 1908 edition of the Denver Post.
My copy of the story was provided by Karen Hine, a descendant of Pagosa pioneer Maude Hart, whose son-in-law was Billy Kern. Both were Pagosa pioneers from the earliest days of settlement.
The Rocky Mountain West of the first decade of the 1900s still had a lot of Wild West character. Cars and trains and steamboats — even the Wright Brothers’ airplane — had all been invented. Still, horses were the main means of transportation “way out west.”
Everybody knows westerners loved a good horse race.
One-time famous cartoonist Homer Davenport was apparently a horse enthusiast. He happened to remark while visiting Denver that Arabian horses could travel farther and faster than any other breed.
Davenport’s remarks incited the Denver Post to promote a long distance race to see if Arabians really were better.
After much debate, conditions for the race were established.
Called the Great Endurance Race, the path stretched from Evanston in the southwest corner of Wyoming to Denver. It was a treacherous trail over the Continental Divide, some of the roughest of western terrain.
The race would start the morning of May 30, but all entries were due by midnight of the twentieth. The Post would charter a special train leaving Denver on the twenty-sixth to carry the riders and their horses assembled there and would pick up others at specific points along the way. Other expenses and all risks would be borne by the entrants.
There were prizes for the top six finishers; $500, $350, $200, $150, $100 and $50. An additional $300 in gold would be paid to the one finishing in the best condition...
Read more here:
http://pagosasun.com/archives/2012/02February/020912/pagosapast.html
By John M. Motter
PagosaSUN.com columnist
Thursday, February 9, 2012
My favorite horse story was printed in a 1908 edition of the Denver Post.
My copy of the story was provided by Karen Hine, a descendant of Pagosa pioneer Maude Hart, whose son-in-law was Billy Kern. Both were Pagosa pioneers from the earliest days of settlement.
The Rocky Mountain West of the first decade of the 1900s still had a lot of Wild West character. Cars and trains and steamboats — even the Wright Brothers’ airplane — had all been invented. Still, horses were the main means of transportation “way out west.”
Everybody knows westerners loved a good horse race.
One-time famous cartoonist Homer Davenport was apparently a horse enthusiast. He happened to remark while visiting Denver that Arabian horses could travel farther and faster than any other breed.
Davenport’s remarks incited the Denver Post to promote a long distance race to see if Arabians really were better.
After much debate, conditions for the race were established.
Called the Great Endurance Race, the path stretched from Evanston in the southwest corner of Wyoming to Denver. It was a treacherous trail over the Continental Divide, some of the roughest of western terrain.
The race would start the morning of May 30, but all entries were due by midnight of the twentieth. The Post would charter a special train leaving Denver on the twenty-sixth to carry the riders and their horses assembled there and would pick up others at specific points along the way. Other expenses and all risks would be borne by the entrants.
There were prizes for the top six finishers; $500, $350, $200, $150, $100 and $50. An additional $300 in gold would be paid to the one finishing in the best condition...
Read more here:
http://pagosasun.com/archives/2012/02February/020912/pagosapast.html
Friday, February 17, 2012
Vintage grad Graham, horse Monk among finishers in Abu Dhabi
Napavalleyregister.com - Full Article
ANDY WILCOX | Posted: Thursday, February 16, 2012
Lindsay Graham rode 10-year-old gelding Monk to a 32nd-place finish in the annual 100-mile President’s Cup Endurance Ride on Saturday in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Graham, a veterinarian at Napa Valley Veterinary Hospital, said only 46 of 140 starters finished the prestigious event.
The 2000 Vintage High School graduate went into the six-loop race planning to ride at a competitive but comfortable pace.
She wanted to make sure Monk, owned by Chris Martin of Penn Valley, would come home healthy and be ready for their bigger goal — a successful tryout next month in Texas for the biannual World Endurance Championship that will be held in England in August.
Graham and Monk finished in 8 hours, 53 minutes.
The only other American invited to the race, four-time Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race champion Doug Swingley of Montana, finished 38th.
“The race went really well,” Graham said. “The day went as I had hoped for, to start off in the back and keep a steady but slowly increasing pace throughout the day...
Read more here:
http://napavalleyregister.com/sports/vintage-grad-graham-horse-monk-among-finishers-in-abu-dhabi/article_a1cc7a28-5935-11e1-9ccc-001871e3ce6c.html
ANDY WILCOX | Posted: Thursday, February 16, 2012
Lindsay Graham rode 10-year-old gelding Monk to a 32nd-place finish in the annual 100-mile President’s Cup Endurance Ride on Saturday in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Graham, a veterinarian at Napa Valley Veterinary Hospital, said only 46 of 140 starters finished the prestigious event.
The 2000 Vintage High School graduate went into the six-loop race planning to ride at a competitive but comfortable pace.
She wanted to make sure Monk, owned by Chris Martin of Penn Valley, would come home healthy and be ready for their bigger goal — a successful tryout next month in Texas for the biannual World Endurance Championship that will be held in England in August.
Graham and Monk finished in 8 hours, 53 minutes.
The only other American invited to the race, four-time Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race champion Doug Swingley of Montana, finished 38th.
“The race went really well,” Graham said. “The day went as I had hoped for, to start off in the back and keep a steady but slowly increasing pace throughout the day...
Read more here:
http://napavalleyregister.com/sports/vintage-grad-graham-horse-monk-among-finishers-in-abu-dhabi/article_a1cc7a28-5935-11e1-9ccc-001871e3ce6c.html
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Jane Beshear Announces Over $1.8 Million for Recreational Trails Projects
Surfky.com
Governors Communication Office
15 February 2012 14:37
FRANKFORT, KY (2/15/12) – First Lady Jane Beshear joined Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Marcheta Sparrow and Department for Local Government (DLG) Commissioner Tony Wilder to announce more than $1.8 million in grants to local communities to develop and maintain recreational trails across Kentucky.
The total of $1,849,648 in federal grant dollars will go to 38 applicants for hiking, biking, horseback riding and other types of trails as part of the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The applicants include city and county government as well as state and federal agencies.
“Developing Kentucky trails is instrumental in increasing overall adventure tourism efforts and boosting local economies throughout the state,” said Mrs. Beshear. “These federal funds help communities get trail projects off the ground so they can bring in tourism dollars and provide areas for their citizens to be active and live healthier lifestyles.”
At the event, Mrs. Beshear also recognized award recipients from last year’s Mid America Trails and Greenway (MATAG) conference. Lynda Bray Schaffer was recognized for being an outstanding volunteer to help expand trials in Kentucky and the Legacy Trail in Lexington was recognized for being and outstanding trail or greenway in Kentucky.
RTP is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. Kentucky’s RTP grants are administered by DLG and require that applicants match the amount of funds requested. The grants may be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements; development and/or maintenance of recreational trails; and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, inline skating, equestrian use, off-road motorcycling and all-terrain vehicle riding.
FY11 applicants that have been approved for RTP project grants include:
Read more here:
http://surfky.com/index.php/component/content/article/235-statewide-kentucky-news/10784-jane-beshear-announces-over-18-million-for-recreational-trails-projects-
Governors Communication Office
15 February 2012 14:37
FRANKFORT, KY (2/15/12) – First Lady Jane Beshear joined Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Marcheta Sparrow and Department for Local Government (DLG) Commissioner Tony Wilder to announce more than $1.8 million in grants to local communities to develop and maintain recreational trails across Kentucky.
The total of $1,849,648 in federal grant dollars will go to 38 applicants for hiking, biking, horseback riding and other types of trails as part of the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The applicants include city and county government as well as state and federal agencies.
“Developing Kentucky trails is instrumental in increasing overall adventure tourism efforts and boosting local economies throughout the state,” said Mrs. Beshear. “These federal funds help communities get trail projects off the ground so they can bring in tourism dollars and provide areas for their citizens to be active and live healthier lifestyles.”
At the event, Mrs. Beshear also recognized award recipients from last year’s Mid America Trails and Greenway (MATAG) conference. Lynda Bray Schaffer was recognized for being an outstanding volunteer to help expand trials in Kentucky and the Legacy Trail in Lexington was recognized for being and outstanding trail or greenway in Kentucky.
RTP is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. Kentucky’s RTP grants are administered by DLG and require that applicants match the amount of funds requested. The grants may be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements; development and/or maintenance of recreational trails; and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, inline skating, equestrian use, off-road motorcycling and all-terrain vehicle riding.
FY11 applicants that have been approved for RTP project grants include:
Read more here:
http://surfky.com/index.php/component/content/article/235-statewide-kentucky-news/10784-jane-beshear-announces-over-18-million-for-recreational-trails-projects-
Friday, February 10, 2012
OT Sara Moniet RSI is 2011 AHA Distance Horse of the Year
Equisearch.com - Full Article
February 9, 2012 -- OT Sara Moniet RSI (Rave On Ravenwood x OT Dysara RSI), a 2004 dark chestnut owned by M.A. “Crockett” Dumas of Escalante, Utah was named the Arabian Horse Association (AHA) 2011 Distance Horse of the Year, adding one more award to a long list of 2011 accomplishments.
“Sara” covered 1,675 competition miles in 2011, completing 31 of 31 rides with 10 overall wins and 9 Best Conditions. The 7 year-old mare won two 200-mile rides, one 165-miler, one 155-miler, and finished all but one of her rides in the Top Ten. Coupled with Distance Horse of the Year honors, Sara was named the AHA High Point 50-99 mile Endurance horse. The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) awarded Sara the War Mare Award and the Belesemo Arabians Pioneer Award for the Heavyweight Division. Lastly, Sara was awarded the Drinkers of the Wind performance award by the Institute of the Desert Arabian Horse.
“Well everybody thinks their horse is the greatest horse in the world,” says Crockett Dumas. “But she is really a great all-around horse. I bred her and her mother and father … after riding 37,500 miles, I don’t spend a lot of time on good horses. She’s a great horse...”
Read more here:
http://www.equisearch.com/news/ot-sara-moniet-rsi-is-2011-aha-distance-horse-of-the-year/
February 9, 2012 -- OT Sara Moniet RSI (Rave On Ravenwood x OT Dysara RSI), a 2004 dark chestnut owned by M.A. “Crockett” Dumas of Escalante, Utah was named the Arabian Horse Association (AHA) 2011 Distance Horse of the Year, adding one more award to a long list of 2011 accomplishments.
“Sara” covered 1,675 competition miles in 2011, completing 31 of 31 rides with 10 overall wins and 9 Best Conditions. The 7 year-old mare won two 200-mile rides, one 165-miler, one 155-miler, and finished all but one of her rides in the Top Ten. Coupled with Distance Horse of the Year honors, Sara was named the AHA High Point 50-99 mile Endurance horse. The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) awarded Sara the War Mare Award and the Belesemo Arabians Pioneer Award for the Heavyweight Division. Lastly, Sara was awarded the Drinkers of the Wind performance award by the Institute of the Desert Arabian Horse.
“Well everybody thinks their horse is the greatest horse in the world,” says Crockett Dumas. “But she is really a great all-around horse. I bred her and her mother and father … after riding 37,500 miles, I don’t spend a lot of time on good horses. She’s a great horse...”
Read more here:
http://www.equisearch.com/news/ot-sara-moniet-rsi-is-2011-aha-distance-horse-of-the-year/
Thursday, February 09, 2012
Foiled by Paperwork, Steven Hay Selected for, Misses Young Rider Endurance Worlds
Pennsylvaniaequestrian.com - Full Article
February 2012 - by Suzanne Bush
When Steven Hay was just six years old, he knew that he was in love with horses. He rode horses at his grandmother’s farm, and spent several years taking advantage of all the opportunities available to a young rider, such as showing and 4H. But he was hungry for more. “When I was younger I had showed, and I did 4H and it wasn’t my cup of tea. I didn’t feel like going in the show ring and riding around in a circle. It didn’t test us. It wasn’t enough.”
Hay, a 21 year-old junior at Penn State University, sought the kinds of equestrian competitions that would challenge him and his horses both mentally and physically. He got involved in competitive trail riding, “then I got into endurance and distance riding and that was it.”
The Port Matilda resident loves the challenge of conditioning a horse for competition, and preparing himself and the horse mentally for the races. He was named to the first ever United States team competing at the FEI Junior and Young Rider World Endurance Championship, which was held in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in December. Although he has been competing in endurance races since 2005, Hay has achieved enviable success. In 2010 he placed eighth out of 79 competitors in the Biltmore FEI 50, and fifth in the Canter Over the Mountain Endurance Competition. That same year he was on the gold medal team at the North American Champions, where he was also the Individual Bronze Medalist...
Read more here:
http://www.pennsylvaniaequestrian.com/news2012/february/Steven-Hay-Selected-for-Misses-Young-Rider-Endurance-Worlds.php
February 2012 - by Suzanne Bush
When Steven Hay was just six years old, he knew that he was in love with horses. He rode horses at his grandmother’s farm, and spent several years taking advantage of all the opportunities available to a young rider, such as showing and 4H. But he was hungry for more. “When I was younger I had showed, and I did 4H and it wasn’t my cup of tea. I didn’t feel like going in the show ring and riding around in a circle. It didn’t test us. It wasn’t enough.”
Hay, a 21 year-old junior at Penn State University, sought the kinds of equestrian competitions that would challenge him and his horses both mentally and physically. He got involved in competitive trail riding, “then I got into endurance and distance riding and that was it.”
The Port Matilda resident loves the challenge of conditioning a horse for competition, and preparing himself and the horse mentally for the races. He was named to the first ever United States team competing at the FEI Junior and Young Rider World Endurance Championship, which was held in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in December. Although he has been competing in endurance races since 2005, Hay has achieved enviable success. In 2010 he placed eighth out of 79 competitors in the Biltmore FEI 50, and fifth in the Canter Over the Mountain Endurance Competition. That same year he was on the gold medal team at the North American Champions, where he was also the Individual Bronze Medalist...
Read more here:
http://www.pennsylvaniaequestrian.com/news2012/february/Steven-Hay-Selected-for-Misses-Young-Rider-Endurance-Worlds.php
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
An endurance riding queen
Examiner.com - Full Article
Jennifer Allen
Princeton Horse Examiner
“If I were in a bar fight I would want Brian Urlacher, Jared Allen, and Grace Ramsey.” Many people know the first two people; few outside of the endurance world know the third. And the author of the phrase is known by the community she lives in and surrounds herself by—Lori Windows.
Born in Canada, raised in Bloomington, taught in Indianapolis, working in Princeton, and living in Wyanet, IL, Windows wastes no time living her life. From an early age she always had to be busy, always had to be saving money for her first horse, Chico. A Mr. Fowler set her on horses and said “You’re not getting a saddle until you learn how to ride,” then would hide out in the woods to scare the horse and dump the rider.
Now sixty one, one would think Windows would start slowing down. Try telling that to her face and you will get an emphatic “No! Why would I want to slow down? So I can get old and decrepit?” She still works as a veterinary technician at Bureau Valley Veterinary Service (Princeton, IL), travels the world, dives with rays and sharks, and rides those horses and mules...
Read more here:
http://www.examiner.com/horse-in-peoria/an-endurance-riding-queen
Jennifer Allen
Princeton Horse Examiner
“If I were in a bar fight I would want Brian Urlacher, Jared Allen, and Grace Ramsey.” Many people know the first two people; few outside of the endurance world know the third. And the author of the phrase is known by the community she lives in and surrounds herself by—Lori Windows.
Born in Canada, raised in Bloomington, taught in Indianapolis, working in Princeton, and living in Wyanet, IL, Windows wastes no time living her life. From an early age she always had to be busy, always had to be saving money for her first horse, Chico. A Mr. Fowler set her on horses and said “You’re not getting a saddle until you learn how to ride,” then would hide out in the woods to scare the horse and dump the rider.
Now sixty one, one would think Windows would start slowing down. Try telling that to her face and you will get an emphatic “No! Why would I want to slow down? So I can get old and decrepit?” She still works as a veterinary technician at Bureau Valley Veterinary Service (Princeton, IL), travels the world, dives with rays and sharks, and rides those horses and mules...
Read more here:
http://www.examiner.com/horse-in-peoria/an-endurance-riding-queen
Sunday, February 05, 2012
Vintage grad one of two Americans chosen to compete in 100-mile Abu Dhabi race
ANDY WILCOX | Posted: Saturday, February 4, 2012
Lindsay Graham is excited about her latest chance to team up with 10-year-old gelding Monk, the horse she rode for a North American-record time for 100 miles last summer.
The 2000 Vintage High graduate is one of only two Americans who have been invited to compete in the annual President of the UAE Endurance Ride in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Feb. 11.
Despite her record last summer, and fourth-place finish in the North American Endurance Championships in Greenville, Calif. — just north of Truckee — in September, Graham isn’t planning to push Monk as hard as she can to claim a victory in the Middle East.
This is just the first race of a year she expects to be busy.
“What our goal is this year,” she said of herself and Monk’s owner, Chris Martin of Penn Valley, “is to make it to the World Endurance Championship in England in August, and we have trial for that, a tryout, at the end of March in Texas. So I have to be careful. If Monk has a problem over there he might be out for the tryout. So I’m going to use it as a really good conditioning ride and work on a good pace. He’s still going to be working, but we’re not going to be out there racing for the win. We’re going to go out there and do the best we can but also enjoy the experience...”
Read more here:
http://napavalleyregister.com/sports/vintage-grad-one-of-two-americans-chosen-to-compete-in/article_1e1fca6c-4fc2-11e1-85eb-001871e3ce6c.html
Friday, February 03, 2012
Airport Express is This Weekend
fly2houston.com - Full Article
January 30, 2012
The 2nd Annual "Airport Express Endurance Ride" will take place on February 4 and February 5.
Almost a hundred horseback riders are set to take off through the scenic trails of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, as the 2nd Annual “Airport Express Endurance Ride” gets underway.
The event will take place on Saturday, February 4 and Sunday, February 5, 2011. Riders traveling 50 miles will see a start time of 7:30 a.m., while the 25 mile riders will begin at 8:00 a.m. All riders need to check-in at least 15 minutes prior to their start time. A dinner, with musical entertainment provided, will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 3 and Saturday, February 4. Both the dinner and the musical entertainment are free of charge.
“The two day event features a 25 and 50 mile ride on each day throughout 13,000 acres of groomed riding trails at George Bush Intercontinental Airport,” says Ronnie Pickard, director of strategic constituent planning & special projects for the Houston Airport System.
EEndurance riding is an athletic event for both horse and rider. The goal is to complete the marked trail within the time given, as established by the American Endurance Ride Conference standards. All horses must pass a complete veterinary check before, during and after the ride.
In addition, a 10+ mile “Fun Ride” is simultaneously hosted for those that are novice riders and would like to find out more about the sport of Endurance. They also become more familiar with the beautiful airport trails and the Airport Ranger program.
“As a volunteer Airport Ranger we provide a low-key, additional layer of security,” said Darolyn Butler, Airport Express Ride Manager and Airport Ranger. “After a rigorous background check, we get a chance to ride in some of the most breathtaking areas of the state.”
The event raises funds for Houston based charitable 501 (c) (3) organizations, SIRE – Houston’s Therapeutic Equestrian Centers and the HAS Interfaith Chapels. This year marks a meaningful addition, making it the first of three commemorative rides in the Texas Mortl Challenge Series honoring April Mortl.
A variety of activities will also take place each day including educational demonstrations showcasing SIRE and Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol.
For more information, visit fly2houston.com/airportexpress
January 30, 2012
The 2nd Annual "Airport Express Endurance Ride" will take place on February 4 and February 5.
Almost a hundred horseback riders are set to take off through the scenic trails of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, as the 2nd Annual “Airport Express Endurance Ride” gets underway.
The event will take place on Saturday, February 4 and Sunday, February 5, 2011. Riders traveling 50 miles will see a start time of 7:30 a.m., while the 25 mile riders will begin at 8:00 a.m. All riders need to check-in at least 15 minutes prior to their start time. A dinner, with musical entertainment provided, will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 3 and Saturday, February 4. Both the dinner and the musical entertainment are free of charge.
“The two day event features a 25 and 50 mile ride on each day throughout 13,000 acres of groomed riding trails at George Bush Intercontinental Airport,” says Ronnie Pickard, director of strategic constituent planning & special projects for the Houston Airport System.
EEndurance riding is an athletic event for both horse and rider. The goal is to complete the marked trail within the time given, as established by the American Endurance Ride Conference standards. All horses must pass a complete veterinary check before, during and after the ride.
In addition, a 10+ mile “Fun Ride” is simultaneously hosted for those that are novice riders and would like to find out more about the sport of Endurance. They also become more familiar with the beautiful airport trails and the Airport Ranger program.
“As a volunteer Airport Ranger we provide a low-key, additional layer of security,” said Darolyn Butler, Airport Express Ride Manager and Airport Ranger. “After a rigorous background check, we get a chance to ride in some of the most breathtaking areas of the state.”
The event raises funds for Houston based charitable 501 (c) (3) organizations, SIRE – Houston’s Therapeutic Equestrian Centers and the HAS Interfaith Chapels. This year marks a meaningful addition, making it the first of three commemorative rides in the Texas Mortl Challenge Series honoring April Mortl.
A variety of activities will also take place each day including educational demonstrations showcasing SIRE and Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol.
For more information, visit fly2houston.com/airportexpress
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Doug Swingley, Action Hero
Horsereporter.com - Full Article
January 31, 2012
By Pamela@horsereporter
Doug Swingley from Lincoln, Montana, started endurance riding competition after 50, but when he commits to a sport, he wants to be the best. Swingley, now 58, is one of two riders from the United States that have been invited to participate in the 160k HH President of the UAE Endurance Ride in Abu Dhabi.
With only three weeks advance notice to prepare for the February 11 race, Swingley says the plan is coming together. Once the invitation was received and forwarded by the United States Equestrian Federation, horse passports and flight arrangements for horses and people have been flying back and forth quickly across the internet.
Swingley is a man accustomed to planning a competitive campaign with animals, and hardship is part of the package. Riding on a horse in the sand for 10-15 hours must seem at the other end of the spectrum for a professional dog musher and sled dog driver. And Swingley is one of the best...
Read more here:
http://siteground303.com/~horserep/2012/01/31/doug-swingley-action-hero/
January 31, 2012
By Pamela@horsereporter
Doug Swingley from Lincoln, Montana, started endurance riding competition after 50, but when he commits to a sport, he wants to be the best. Swingley, now 58, is one of two riders from the United States that have been invited to participate in the 160k HH President of the UAE Endurance Ride in Abu Dhabi.
With only three weeks advance notice to prepare for the February 11 race, Swingley says the plan is coming together. Once the invitation was received and forwarded by the United States Equestrian Federation, horse passports and flight arrangements for horses and people have been flying back and forth quickly across the internet.
Swingley is a man accustomed to planning a competitive campaign with animals, and hardship is part of the package. Riding on a horse in the sand for 10-15 hours must seem at the other end of the spectrum for a professional dog musher and sled dog driver. And Swingley is one of the best...
Read more here:
http://siteground303.com/~horserep/2012/01/31/doug-swingley-action-hero/
Piney Pig Endurance Race: Young Riders Excelled
JJride.com - Full Article
Kelsey Kimbler | January 30, 2012
Very exciting weekend for endurance! Young riders really excelled at the Piney Pig ride down by West Palm Beach in South Florida. This was an FEI event with distances of 50 & 75 on Friday and 50, 75 & 100 on Saturday. I kept getting updates from my endurance family throughout the weekend and really wish I had been there racing.
It seems there were Young Riders in all the distances, some riding both days and most of them finished in the Top Ten. I don’t have an exact list but here goes;
Friday:
1. Michael Bishop – 50
2. Stephen Faryadi – 50
3. Taylor White – 50
4. Rachel Shackelford & Chances – 50
5. Zach Rabow & Hava Nah – 75
6. Kelsey Russell & Dee – 75
Saturday:
1. Kelsey Russell & Junior – 50
2. Stephen Faryadi – 50
3. Michael Bishop – 50
4. Katherine Gardener – 50
5. Zach Rabow & Elliptic – 50
6. Devan Horn & Braveheart – 50
7. Taylor White & Loki – 75
8. Cassandra Roberts & Fire – 75
9. Mallory Capps & Hadban – 75
10. Mary Kathryn Clark & Rabdan – 75
11. Sydney Sumrall & Koedoe – 75
12. Rachel Shackelford & Chief – 75
Read more here:
http://www.jrride.com/2012/01/30/piney-pig-endurance-race-young-riders-excelled/
Kelsey Kimbler | January 30, 2012
Very exciting weekend for endurance! Young riders really excelled at the Piney Pig ride down by West Palm Beach in South Florida. This was an FEI event with distances of 50 & 75 on Friday and 50, 75 & 100 on Saturday. I kept getting updates from my endurance family throughout the weekend and really wish I had been there racing.
It seems there were Young Riders in all the distances, some riding both days and most of them finished in the Top Ten. I don’t have an exact list but here goes;
Friday:
1. Michael Bishop – 50
2. Stephen Faryadi – 50
3. Taylor White – 50
4. Rachel Shackelford & Chances – 50
5. Zach Rabow & Hava Nah – 75
6. Kelsey Russell & Dee – 75
Saturday:
1. Kelsey Russell & Junior – 50
2. Stephen Faryadi – 50
3. Michael Bishop – 50
4. Katherine Gardener – 50
5. Zach Rabow & Elliptic – 50
6. Devan Horn & Braveheart – 50
7. Taylor White & Loki – 75
8. Cassandra Roberts & Fire – 75
9. Mallory Capps & Hadban – 75
10. Mary Kathryn Clark & Rabdan – 75
11. Sydney Sumrall & Koedoe – 75
12. Rachel Shackelford & Chief – 75
Read more here:
http://www.jrride.com/2012/01/30/piney-pig-endurance-race-young-riders-excelled/
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Recreational Trails Program Continues to be Threatened
Horsecouncil.org
Submitted by admin on Tue, 01/10/2012 - 16:40
The Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program (RTP), which provides funding for recreational trails throughout the country, including those used by equestrians, continues to be threatened.
In November, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee marked up its version of a multi-year national highway transportation bill, called MAP-21. MAP-21 would reauthorize the RTP program; however it would make a major change to the RTP program by removing dedicated funding for the program and consolidating it with several others.
“As currently written this bill would preserve RTP in name only and would effectively end the program that has funded thousands of successful trail projects all over the country,” said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass. “RTP would be thrown in with a bunch of other programs and states could choose not to spend any money on RTP projects. This defeats the original idea of RTP, which was to return some of the gas taxes paid by recreational off-highway vehicle users to the trail community.”
The current national highway bill SAFETEA-LU that authorizes the RTP program was set to expire in September of 2009. However, because Congress has yet to pass a new highway bill it has been forced to extend the current law several times, most recently until March 2012. MAP-21 must still be debated and approved by the full Senate. The House has yet to introduce its version of a highway bill.
“Every recreational rider needs to be calling and emailing their Senators to let them know how important the RTP program is to them. They need to make sure their Senators understand that RTP must have dedicated funding,” said Pendergrass.
Currently, funding for RTP is provided by taxes on fuel paid into the Highway Trust Fund by users of off-highway recreational vehicles. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails. Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects. RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land available to equestrians. The program has been a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks.
The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users, is requesting Congress re-authorize the RTP program in its current form in the next highway bill as a separate distinct program with dedicated funding. The AHC urges its member organizations and their membership to contact Congress and voice support for this program and let them know this program is important to the horse community.
Submitted by admin on Tue, 01/10/2012 - 16:40
The Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program (RTP), which provides funding for recreational trails throughout the country, including those used by equestrians, continues to be threatened.
In November, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee marked up its version of a multi-year national highway transportation bill, called MAP-21. MAP-21 would reauthorize the RTP program; however it would make a major change to the RTP program by removing dedicated funding for the program and consolidating it with several others.
“As currently written this bill would preserve RTP in name only and would effectively end the program that has funded thousands of successful trail projects all over the country,” said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass. “RTP would be thrown in with a bunch of other programs and states could choose not to spend any money on RTP projects. This defeats the original idea of RTP, which was to return some of the gas taxes paid by recreational off-highway vehicle users to the trail community.”
The current national highway bill SAFETEA-LU that authorizes the RTP program was set to expire in September of 2009. However, because Congress has yet to pass a new highway bill it has been forced to extend the current law several times, most recently until March 2012. MAP-21 must still be debated and approved by the full Senate. The House has yet to introduce its version of a highway bill.
“Every recreational rider needs to be calling and emailing their Senators to let them know how important the RTP program is to them. They need to make sure their Senators understand that RTP must have dedicated funding,” said Pendergrass.
Currently, funding for RTP is provided by taxes on fuel paid into the Highway Trust Fund by users of off-highway recreational vehicles. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails. Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects. RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land available to equestrians. The program has been a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks.
The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users, is requesting Congress re-authorize the RTP program in its current form in the next highway bill as a separate distinct program with dedicated funding. The AHC urges its member organizations and their membership to contact Congress and voice support for this program and let them know this program is important to the horse community.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
American Horse Council Explains Changes in Tax Benefits for Horse Owners
Horsecouncil.org
Submitted by admin on Fri, 01/20/2012
Despite the acrimony and brinksmanship, Congress eventually passed an extension of the payroll tax reductions in late December maintaining the 2% reduction in payroll taxes for workers and the self-employed. The relief is good for two months through February, 2012. Negotiations are already underway between the House and Senate to find a way to extend payroll tax relief through 2012.
But the bill ultimately passed by Congress did not extend the Section 179 expense deduction or 100% bonus depreciation at the 2011 levels. Both provisions have returned to prior lower levels.
Section 179 Expense Deduction
The expense deduction has returned to $125,000 for 2012 and phases out dollar-for-dollar once purchases of depreciable property reach $500,000. The 179 expense deduction applies to horses, farm equipment and other depreciable property used in a business and permits a horse owner or breeder to write-off up to $125,000 in assets purchased and placed in service in one’s horse business in 2012.
The expense allowance for 2010-2011 was $500,000 and phased out after purchases exceeded $2 million.
Bonus Depreciation
In addition, bonus depreciation has returned to 50% for 2012. Bonus depreciation allows horse owners and other horse businesses to write off 50% of the cost of “new” capital assets, including horses, when purchased and placed in service in 2012. To be eligible for bonus depreciation the original use of the property must commence with the taxpayer. Any prior use makes the property ineligible.
Bonus depreciation was 100% for eligible assets purchased and placed in service from September 8, 2010 through 2011.
Both provisions can be used together.
Retroactive Change is Possible
“It is possible that the higher levels could be reinstated retroactively to January 1, 2012. In fact, the House-passed payroll-tax bill extended 100% bonus depreciation through 2012, even though the Senate bill did not,” said AHC president Jay Hickey. “The negotiations between now and the end of February on the one-year extension of the payroll tax reduction could include other changes to the tax code, such as the expense deduction or bonus depreciation. But this is speculation at this point.”
Submitted by admin on Fri, 01/20/2012
Despite the acrimony and brinksmanship, Congress eventually passed an extension of the payroll tax reductions in late December maintaining the 2% reduction in payroll taxes for workers and the self-employed. The relief is good for two months through February, 2012. Negotiations are already underway between the House and Senate to find a way to extend payroll tax relief through 2012.
But the bill ultimately passed by Congress did not extend the Section 179 expense deduction or 100% bonus depreciation at the 2011 levels. Both provisions have returned to prior lower levels.
Section 179 Expense Deduction
The expense deduction has returned to $125,000 for 2012 and phases out dollar-for-dollar once purchases of depreciable property reach $500,000. The 179 expense deduction applies to horses, farm equipment and other depreciable property used in a business and permits a horse owner or breeder to write-off up to $125,000 in assets purchased and placed in service in one’s horse business in 2012.
The expense allowance for 2010-2011 was $500,000 and phased out after purchases exceeded $2 million.
Bonus Depreciation
In addition, bonus depreciation has returned to 50% for 2012. Bonus depreciation allows horse owners and other horse businesses to write off 50% of the cost of “new” capital assets, including horses, when purchased and placed in service in 2012. To be eligible for bonus depreciation the original use of the property must commence with the taxpayer. Any prior use makes the property ineligible.
Bonus depreciation was 100% for eligible assets purchased and placed in service from September 8, 2010 through 2011.
Both provisions can be used together.
Retroactive Change is Possible
“It is possible that the higher levels could be reinstated retroactively to January 1, 2012. In fact, the House-passed payroll-tax bill extended 100% bonus depreciation through 2012, even though the Senate bill did not,” said AHC president Jay Hickey. “The negotiations between now and the end of February on the one-year extension of the payroll tax reduction could include other changes to the tax code, such as the expense deduction or bonus depreciation. But this is speculation at this point.”
Back Country Horsemen of America is Recognized by Local and National Organizations
For Immediate Release: January 23, 2012
Contact: Peg Greiwe
1-888-893-5161
Back Country Horsemen of America is Recognized
by Local and National Organizations
By Sarah Wynne Jackson
When you ride your horse down a well-groomed trail with level footing, no low branches, sturdy bridges, and safe water crossings, do you stop to think what it took to make that happen? Ask any Back Country Horsemen of America member and they’ll tell you: long hours of hard work, lots of sweat, and personal funds spent on fuel and supplies.
Maintaining trails for horse use is far from glamorous, but without it, where will we ride? It may seem like a thankless job, but Back Country Horsemen of America are happy to do it and organizations large and small see the difference BCH folks are making.
Just Doing What They Do
All Back Country Horsemen believe in the value of volunteerism, so it’s no wonder that many of their accolades center around trail work. On a rainy day in September, seven members of Hoosier Back Country Horsemen of Indiana volunteered their time and equipment to repair storm damage at Youngs Creek Horse Camp in Hoosier National Forest.
Straight-line winds had hit the camp, blowing down large trees which damaged the water trough, fence, and highline posts. The folks from Hoosier BCH cleared debris, repaired the fence, and installed new highline posts. They used a tractor to remove fallen trees and large branches. They also performed general maintenance, such as trimming tall grass in the fenced area.
Nancy Myers, Outdoor Recreation Planner of Region 9, Hoosier National Forest, Tell City Ranger District, recently recognized Hoosier Back Country Horsemen on the US Forest Service’s “Success Stories” web page for their assistance in cleaning up Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Nancy wrote, “The Hoosier Back Country Horsemen are a great partner and very willing to volunteer for trailhead and trail projects. They even agreed to help on another trail gravelling project on the German Ridge Trail in November. The Tell City recreation staff is very appreciative of the Hoosier Back Country Horsemen's hard work and willingness to enhance recreation opportunities for equestrians on the Hoosier National Forest.”
Making the Connection
Back Country Horsemen across the country go out of their way to nurture good relationships with public land managers. Back Country Horsemen of Middle and South Georgia have a strong working relationship with the folks at A.H. Stephens State Historic Park. They volunteer throughout the year on various projects, such as trail work days, special events, securing grants, and hosting and assisting with several equestrian programs.
As a result, the equestrian facility is now more user friendly with higher visitation rates, generates more revenue, and has receive positive feedback from guests. Andre Mclendon, Park Manager at A.H. Stephens State Historic Park, recently sent a letter of thanks to Back Country Horsemen of Middle and South Georgia.
Andre ended his letter with this sentiment, “Words cannot express how much we appreciate your support. Every day we take one step closer to achieving our goal. It is to be the best equestrian facility that our Georgia State Park system has to offer. With your support I am confident that we can attain our goal. Thank you so much for your contributions. All of our accomplishments from this past year are proof that we can make a difference.”
National Recognition
Responsible recreation is a major tenet of Back Country Horsemen of America and has been a focus of Back Country Horsemen of Washington since their formation in 1976. BCHW’s current Leave No Trace educational program has been in existence for 15 years, and is funded mostly from grants through the US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration Recreational Trails Program.
The Coalition for Recreational Trails, a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, gives seven achievement awards each year to recognize outstanding use of Recreational Trails Program funds. In 2010, BCHW's Leave No Trace Educational Program received the award in the category of Environment and Wildlife Compatibility.
The entire BCHW Leave No Trace program is run by volunteers dedicated to teaching others responsible recreation. This national award is a great honor for all BCHW members who work and support this educational program with their time and effort. Back Country Horsemen of Washington members also made donations to cover the travel expenses of three BCHW officers to accept the award in person in Washington, D.C.
Share the Trail
Back Country Horsemen of America believes in sharing trails amiably with other users, and BCH Eagle Creek of Kentucky exemplifies that ideal with their outstanding cooperation with the Kentucky Mountain Bike Association. The two organizations recently worked together on a clean up work day on a county-owned reservoir multi-use trail system.
Chris Lockard, President of the Bluegrass Chapter of the Kentucky Mountain Bike Association, sent BCH Eagle Creek a warm letter of appreciation. He wrote in part, “I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for extending an invitation out to the KY Mountain Bike Association to participate in the trail day sponsored by the Back Country Horsemen of Eagle Creek. You and your group were great to work with. The local mountain biker community found it rewarding to work with the equestrians on trail improvements at the county reservoir property.”
Chris also pointed out the benefits of different trail user groups working together toward a common goal, something well understood by Back Country Horsemen of America. Interactions between user groups helps foster understanding and positive relationships, as well as respect and value for each other’s right to a quality trail experience.
About Back Country Horsemen of America
It’s clear that public land managers, other trail users, and national organizations recognize the huge difference Back Country Horsemen are making. Responsible recreation and 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
1-888-893-5161
Back Country Horsemen of America is Recognized
by Local and National Organizations
By Sarah Wynne Jackson
When you ride your horse down a well-groomed trail with level footing, no low branches, sturdy bridges, and safe water crossings, do you stop to think what it took to make that happen? Ask any Back Country Horsemen of America member and they’ll tell you: long hours of hard work, lots of sweat, and personal funds spent on fuel and supplies.
Maintaining trails for horse use is far from glamorous, but without it, where will we ride? It may seem like a thankless job, but Back Country Horsemen of America are happy to do it and organizations large and small see the difference BCH folks are making.
Just Doing What They Do
All Back Country Horsemen believe in the value of volunteerism, so it’s no wonder that many of their accolades center around trail work. On a rainy day in September, seven members of Hoosier Back Country Horsemen of Indiana volunteered their time and equipment to repair storm damage at Youngs Creek Horse Camp in Hoosier National Forest.
Straight-line winds had hit the camp, blowing down large trees which damaged the water trough, fence, and highline posts. The folks from Hoosier BCH cleared debris, repaired the fence, and installed new highline posts. They used a tractor to remove fallen trees and large branches. They also performed general maintenance, such as trimming tall grass in the fenced area.
Nancy Myers, Outdoor Recreation Planner of Region 9, Hoosier National Forest, Tell City Ranger District, recently recognized Hoosier Back Country Horsemen on the US Forest Service’s “Success Stories” web page for their assistance in cleaning up Youngs Creek Horse Camp.
Nancy wrote, “The Hoosier Back Country Horsemen are a great partner and very willing to volunteer for trailhead and trail projects. They even agreed to help on another trail gravelling project on the German Ridge Trail in November. The Tell City recreation staff is very appreciative of the Hoosier Back Country Horsemen's hard work and willingness to enhance recreation opportunities for equestrians on the Hoosier National Forest.”
Making the Connection
Back Country Horsemen across the country go out of their way to nurture good relationships with public land managers. Back Country Horsemen of Middle and South Georgia have a strong working relationship with the folks at A.H. Stephens State Historic Park. They volunteer throughout the year on various projects, such as trail work days, special events, securing grants, and hosting and assisting with several equestrian programs.
As a result, the equestrian facility is now more user friendly with higher visitation rates, generates more revenue, and has receive positive feedback from guests. Andre Mclendon, Park Manager at A.H. Stephens State Historic Park, recently sent a letter of thanks to Back Country Horsemen of Middle and South Georgia.
Andre ended his letter with this sentiment, “Words cannot express how much we appreciate your support. Every day we take one step closer to achieving our goal. It is to be the best equestrian facility that our Georgia State Park system has to offer. With your support I am confident that we can attain our goal. Thank you so much for your contributions. All of our accomplishments from this past year are proof that we can make a difference.”
National Recognition
Responsible recreation is a major tenet of Back Country Horsemen of America and has been a focus of Back Country Horsemen of Washington since their formation in 1976. BCHW’s current Leave No Trace educational program has been in existence for 15 years, and is funded mostly from grants through the US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration Recreational Trails Program.
The Coalition for Recreational Trails, a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, gives seven achievement awards each year to recognize outstanding use of Recreational Trails Program funds. In 2010, BCHW's Leave No Trace Educational Program received the award in the category of Environment and Wildlife Compatibility.
The entire BCHW Leave No Trace program is run by volunteers dedicated to teaching others responsible recreation. This national award is a great honor for all BCHW members who work and support this educational program with their time and effort. Back Country Horsemen of Washington members also made donations to cover the travel expenses of three BCHW officers to accept the award in person in Washington, D.C.
Share the Trail
Back Country Horsemen of America believes in sharing trails amiably with other users, and BCH Eagle Creek of Kentucky exemplifies that ideal with their outstanding cooperation with the Kentucky Mountain Bike Association. The two organizations recently worked together on a clean up work day on a county-owned reservoir multi-use trail system.
Chris Lockard, President of the Bluegrass Chapter of the Kentucky Mountain Bike Association, sent BCH Eagle Creek a warm letter of appreciation. He wrote in part, “I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for extending an invitation out to the KY Mountain Bike Association to participate in the trail day sponsored by the Back Country Horsemen of Eagle Creek. You and your group were great to work with. The local mountain biker community found it rewarding to work with the equestrians on trail improvements at the county reservoir property.”
Chris also pointed out the benefits of different trail user groups working together toward a common goal, something well understood by Back Country Horsemen of America. Interactions between user groups helps foster understanding and positive relationships, as well as respect and value for each other’s right to a quality trail experience.
About Back Country Horsemen of America
It’s clear that public land managers, other trail users, and national organizations recognize the huge difference Back Country Horsemen are making. Responsible recreation and 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!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
American Horse Council Helps YOU to Connect with Congress
Horsecouncil.org
Submitted by admin on Fri, 01/20/2012 - 12:43
Despite the low approval ratings for Congress, Americans are still interested in what Congress is doing. Why? Because what Congress does - or does not do - impacts the horse industry. This is true regardless of your breed or discipline, whether you are an individual owner, run a track or show, own a horse business, work in the industry as a service provider or ride for recreation.
It is important that we build relationships with our elected leaders in Washington and that they understand and appreciate the $102 billion horse industry’s contribution to the economic, sporting and recreational sectors of the U.S. and their states. 2012 is a terrific opportunity to do this because it is an election year and so many members of Congress and new candidates are running for federal office and they want to meet you.
One of the best ways to build a relationship is to simply invite a member of Congress to your farm or ranch or to an equestrian event back in the district or state. Invite other horse people so there is a built-in crowd of voters. A personal experience with the horse community makes an impression.
All across the country there are farms and ranches getting ready for the breeding season, a great time to showcase the industry. There are horse shows, large and small, races, rodeos, organized and disorganized trail rides, horse sales, etc. Each of these events is an opportunity to build a relationship with a member of Congress or a candidate and to help them understand the horse industry a little bit better. Remember that going to a horse farm or event is a pleasant way to spend a few hours. Having voters there makes it even more pleasant for those running for Congress.
Building relationships with members of Congress is more important now than ever. There are many issues before Congress such as taxes, federal spending, immigration reform and racing legislation, trails legislation and disease programs that could all have profound implications for the horse industry. Only by having personal exchanges with their constituents, who are involved with the horse industry, will members of Congress fully appreciate how these issues impact the industry.
If you would like to invite a member of Congress to your facility or your organization has an upcoming event you think would be appropriate for your Senator or Representative to attend, please contact the AHC. The AHC will help you invite them and provide any guidance you might need. You can call or email the AHC at (202) 296-4031 or AHC@horsecouncil.org for help. Ask for our brochure, Getting Involved in the 2012 Elections, which will give you some pointers.
Please get involved. You will be helping yourself and your industry. And remember that while Congress’ approval rating as a whole is very low, polls still show that most people feel their Senator or Representative is doing a good job so you might even enjoy the visit. They will.
Submitted by admin on Fri, 01/20/2012 - 12:43
Despite the low approval ratings for Congress, Americans are still interested in what Congress is doing. Why? Because what Congress does - or does not do - impacts the horse industry. This is true regardless of your breed or discipline, whether you are an individual owner, run a track or show, own a horse business, work in the industry as a service provider or ride for recreation.
It is important that we build relationships with our elected leaders in Washington and that they understand and appreciate the $102 billion horse industry’s contribution to the economic, sporting and recreational sectors of the U.S. and their states. 2012 is a terrific opportunity to do this because it is an election year and so many members of Congress and new candidates are running for federal office and they want to meet you.
One of the best ways to build a relationship is to simply invite a member of Congress to your farm or ranch or to an equestrian event back in the district or state. Invite other horse people so there is a built-in crowd of voters. A personal experience with the horse community makes an impression.
All across the country there are farms and ranches getting ready for the breeding season, a great time to showcase the industry. There are horse shows, large and small, races, rodeos, organized and disorganized trail rides, horse sales, etc. Each of these events is an opportunity to build a relationship with a member of Congress or a candidate and to help them understand the horse industry a little bit better. Remember that going to a horse farm or event is a pleasant way to spend a few hours. Having voters there makes it even more pleasant for those running for Congress.
Building relationships with members of Congress is more important now than ever. There are many issues before Congress such as taxes, federal spending, immigration reform and racing legislation, trails legislation and disease programs that could all have profound implications for the horse industry. Only by having personal exchanges with their constituents, who are involved with the horse industry, will members of Congress fully appreciate how these issues impact the industry.
If you would like to invite a member of Congress to your facility or your organization has an upcoming event you think would be appropriate for your Senator or Representative to attend, please contact the AHC. The AHC will help you invite them and provide any guidance you might need. You can call or email the AHC at (202) 296-4031 or AHC@horsecouncil.org for help. Ask for our brochure, Getting Involved in the 2012 Elections, which will give you some pointers.
Please get involved. You will be helping yourself and your industry. And remember that while Congress’ approval rating as a whole is very low, polls still show that most people feel their Senator or Representative is doing a good job so you might even enjoy the visit. They will.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Rescheduled Western States Trail Work
Monday January 23 2011
Due to the prediction of moderate to heavy rain and wind, the January 21 trail work event was cancelled. Pending approval from the Auburn State Recreation Area, we will add Saturday, March 3 to the 2012 work schedule. All time and meeting location details planned for tomorrow will now apply to March 3. Please RSVP for this new event if you plan on attending to trails@ws100.com.
Please remember that the United States Forest Service requires that you fill out, sign and send the Volunteer Liability Release Form (this is not the WS service requirement form) to the agency office before you can volunteer. You will not need a form for the first two scheduled work days but you will for March and all other dates. Accordingly, please have your form submitted to the Foresthill USFS office no later than Friday, March 9. Instructions and a link to the PDF form are provided at ws100.com/projects.htm#fedform. You can provide a scanned signature and send to the e-mail address provided or print, sign and fax or mail. Or, to sign the form electronically (digital ID) click on the link in the signature field and follow the directions for creating a new digital ID. You can then save and send a copy of the PDF file. Please remember this is very important to the agency and they are important to us!
2012 Trail Work Projects
January 21 - Cancelled
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
February 11
Cal 1/Cal 2 area
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
March 3 - New Event!!
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
March 24
Volcano Canyon/El Dorado Canyon
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
April 21
Deadwood to Last Chance
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
May 12 (last day to earn service requirement hours for 2012 WS Run)
Pucker Point Trail
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 2 (these dates will serve as credit for 2013 WS Run)
Duncan Canyon
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 15-16 (Robinson Flat campout)
Red Star Ridge
Friday afternoon/Saturday, 8:30 am
Please remember to dress appropriately as the weather is unpredictable. Be sure to wear long pants and bring work gloves, water and a snack. A great lunch and beverages will be provided and waiting at the finish, typically around 1:30 pm. We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Donn Zea
Western States Endurance Run
Board of Trustees
Mike Shackelford
Western States Trail Foundation
Board of Governors
Due to the prediction of moderate to heavy rain and wind, the January 21 trail work event was cancelled. Pending approval from the Auburn State Recreation Area, we will add Saturday, March 3 to the 2012 work schedule. All time and meeting location details planned for tomorrow will now apply to March 3. Please RSVP for this new event if you plan on attending to trails@ws100.com.
Please remember that the United States Forest Service requires that you fill out, sign and send the Volunteer Liability Release Form (this is not the WS service requirement form) to the agency office before you can volunteer. You will not need a form for the first two scheduled work days but you will for March and all other dates. Accordingly, please have your form submitted to the Foresthill USFS office no later than Friday, March 9. Instructions and a link to the PDF form are provided at ws100.com/projects.htm#fedform. You can provide a scanned signature and send to the e-mail address provided or print, sign and fax or mail. Or, to sign the form electronically (digital ID) click on the link in the signature field and follow the directions for creating a new digital ID. You can then save and send a copy of the PDF file. Please remember this is very important to the agency and they are important to us!
2012 Trail Work Projects
January 21 - Cancelled
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
February 11
Cal 1/Cal 2 area
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
March 3 - New Event!!
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
March 24
Volcano Canyon/El Dorado Canyon
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
April 21
Deadwood to Last Chance
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
May 12 (last day to earn service requirement hours for 2012 WS Run)
Pucker Point Trail
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 2 (these dates will serve as credit for 2013 WS Run)
Duncan Canyon
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 15-16 (Robinson Flat campout)
Red Star Ridge
Friday afternoon/Saturday, 8:30 am
Please remember to dress appropriately as the weather is unpredictable. Be sure to wear long pants and bring work gloves, water and a snack. A great lunch and beverages will be provided and waiting at the finish, typically around 1:30 pm. We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Donn Zea
Western States Endurance Run
Board of Trustees
Mike Shackelford
Western States Trail Foundation
Board of Governors
Sunday, January 22, 2012
2012 Date and Location Approved for Adequan/FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North
By Joanie Morris, NAJYRC
*Lexington, KY* - The dates and location of the 2012 Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North have been designated.
The competition will take place at the Kentucky Horse Park from July 18-22, 2012 - the week before the Olympic Games commence in London.
Adequan has returned as the title sponsor of this competition, and makes the dreams of young equestrians (ages 14-21) a reality. It is through the support of Adequan that this event has been able to grow - it now boasts nine FEI Championships.
Dressage, Eventing, Jumping and Reining each offer a championship for Juniors and one for Young Riders. Endurance - which was added in 2011 as a championship, offers an FEI championship for Young Riders.
In 2011 both Vaulting and Para-Equestrian produced exhibition performances at the championship - both were very well received by the other athletes and spectators.
"We look forward to another excellent year of competition at the Kentucky Horse Park," said John Long, CEO of the USEF. "This is the showcase for our youth athletes in these five disciplines and it is a fantastic opportunity for them to compete in a championship of this
caliber."
Other supporters of the only FEI Championship held annually in North America include: Gotham North, SmartPak, Equine Canada, Platinum Performance, Ariat, Howard and Martha Simpson, the United States Dressage Federation, the United States Eventing Association, the United
States Hunter Jumper Association, the American Quarter Horse Association, Griffin Gate Marriott, Sallee Horse Vans, Hodges Badge Company, Phelps Media Group and the Alltech National Horse Show, the Mexican Equestrian Federation, Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC., Hagyard
Equine Medical, WISE Equestrian, Equifit, Dever, Inc., Best of Flowers, and Hertz.
A huge number of people and farms made the first 75-mile Endurance ride possible: Barton Brothers Farm, Ben Koostra, Black Fences/After HoursFarm, Billie Steffie, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Chad Needham, Dunroven Stud (Steve and Martha Brown), Emmett Ross, Fayette and Scott County Police, Gaylord Highlander, Glenn Thompson, Kentuckiana Farms,
Oscar and Eloise Penn, Secretariat Center, Spy Coast Farm, UK-Ag Department (Dr. Nancy Cox), Ulrike McGovern, Equine Monitors (Donna Shifflette) and Distance Depot.
And thanks to all of the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to make this event a success.
www.youngriders.org
*Lexington, KY* - The dates and location of the 2012 Adequan/FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships presented by Gotham North have been designated.
The competition will take place at the Kentucky Horse Park from July 18-22, 2012 - the week before the Olympic Games commence in London.
Adequan has returned as the title sponsor of this competition, and makes the dreams of young equestrians (ages 14-21) a reality. It is through the support of Adequan that this event has been able to grow - it now boasts nine FEI Championships.
Dressage, Eventing, Jumping and Reining each offer a championship for Juniors and one for Young Riders. Endurance - which was added in 2011 as a championship, offers an FEI championship for Young Riders.
In 2011 both Vaulting and Para-Equestrian produced exhibition performances at the championship - both were very well received by the other athletes and spectators.
"We look forward to another excellent year of competition at the Kentucky Horse Park," said John Long, CEO of the USEF. "This is the showcase for our youth athletes in these five disciplines and it is a fantastic opportunity for them to compete in a championship of this
caliber."
Other supporters of the only FEI Championship held annually in North America include: Gotham North, SmartPak, Equine Canada, Platinum Performance, Ariat, Howard and Martha Simpson, the United States Dressage Federation, the United States Eventing Association, the United
States Hunter Jumper Association, the American Quarter Horse Association, Griffin Gate Marriott, Sallee Horse Vans, Hodges Badge Company, Phelps Media Group and the Alltech National Horse Show, the Mexican Equestrian Federation, Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC., Hagyard
Equine Medical, WISE Equestrian, Equifit, Dever, Inc., Best of Flowers, and Hertz.
A huge number of people and farms made the first 75-mile Endurance ride possible: Barton Brothers Farm, Ben Koostra, Black Fences/After HoursFarm, Billie Steffie, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Chad Needham, Dunroven Stud (Steve and Martha Brown), Emmett Ross, Fayette and Scott County Police, Gaylord Highlander, Glenn Thompson, Kentuckiana Farms,
Oscar and Eloise Penn, Secretariat Center, Spy Coast Farm, UK-Ag Department (Dr. Nancy Cox), Ulrike McGovern, Equine Monitors (Donna Shifflette) and Distance Depot.
And thanks to all of the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to make this event a success.
www.youngriders.org
Friday, January 20, 2012
EQUUS Foundation Joins Equine Land Conservation Resource as Premier Conservation Partner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 19, 2012
CONTACT: Deb Balliet, CEO, Equine Land Conservation Resource
(859) 455-8383 or dballiet@elcr.org
By Yellow Horse Marketing for the Equine Land Conservation Resource
The Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) is proud to announce the addition of the EQUUS Foundation to its roster of Premier Conservation Partners. The Conservation Partners Program is a national membership program of organizations which play a critical role in ELCR’s mission to educate the public about the immediate need to conserve land for equine-related activity. With a diverse group of leading equestrian organizations on its roster, the ELCR Conservation Partners Program has grown to become a national network which reaches over 1.1-million horsemen across the country, working with a collective commitment towards saving local land for equine use through advocacy and the sharing of information.
The EQUUS Foundation, also known as Horse Charities of America, has emerged as the primary organization in the equine community solely focused on both horse welfare and the horse-human connection. Since 2003, the EQUUS Foundation has awarded nearly $2 million in grants to charities across the country which are 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.
"Horses enrich the lives of millions of people of all ages every day," said Jenny Belknap Kees, Chairman of the Board of the EQUUS Foundation. "Our purpose is to build a more informed and compassionate America that values the magical and powerful bond we have with horses - a bond that has existed for centuries and is stronger now than ever before. In further pursuit of this goal, we are delighted to join ELCR in this effort as a Premier Conservation Partner."
In addition to joining the Equine Land Conservation Resource's mission as a Premier Conservation Partner, the EQUUS Foundation has invited ELCR to become part of the EQUUS Alliance. Established by the EQUUS Foundation Board of Directors in 2011 to recognize the contributions of organizations involved in the equine community whose activities and programs complement and enhance the mission of the EQUUS Foundation, the EQUUS Alliance offers a mechanism to address national areas of common interest in the equine community and the means to support programs of Alliance members that educate the public about horses, provide services that benefit the equine community, and help stimulate advocacy and volunteerism on behalf of horses.
“At ELCR, we are thrilled to partner with the EQUUS Foundation and become part of the EQUUS Alliance," noted Deb Balliet, CEO of the Equine Land Conservation Resource. “Our organizations have a common goal to enhance and preserve the connection between horses and the public, a goal which is critical to achieve towards our mission of conserving land for equine activities, pastures, farms, and trails.”
About the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR): The Equine Land Conservation Resource is the only national not-for-profit organization advancing the conservation of land for horse-related activity. ELCR serves as an information resource and clearinghouse for land and horse owners on issues related to equine land conservation, land use planning, land stewardship/best management practices, trails, liability and equine economic development. For more information about the ELCR visit our website at www.elcr.org or call (859) 455-8383.
January 19, 2012
CONTACT: Deb Balliet, CEO, Equine Land Conservation Resource
(859) 455-8383 or dballiet@elcr.org
By Yellow Horse Marketing for the Equine Land Conservation Resource
The Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR) is proud to announce the addition of the EQUUS Foundation to its roster of Premier Conservation Partners. The Conservation Partners Program is a national membership program of organizations which play a critical role in ELCR’s mission to educate the public about the immediate need to conserve land for equine-related activity. With a diverse group of leading equestrian organizations on its roster, the ELCR Conservation Partners Program has grown to become a national network which reaches over 1.1-million horsemen across the country, working with a collective commitment towards saving local land for equine use through advocacy and the sharing of information.
The EQUUS Foundation, also known as Horse Charities of America, has emerged as the primary organization in the equine community solely focused on both horse welfare and the horse-human connection. Since 2003, the EQUUS Foundation has awarded nearly $2 million in grants to charities across the country which are 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.
"Horses enrich the lives of millions of people of all ages every day," said Jenny Belknap Kees, Chairman of the Board of the EQUUS Foundation. "Our purpose is to build a more informed and compassionate America that values the magical and powerful bond we have with horses - a bond that has existed for centuries and is stronger now than ever before. In further pursuit of this goal, we are delighted to join ELCR in this effort as a Premier Conservation Partner."
In addition to joining the Equine Land Conservation Resource's mission as a Premier Conservation Partner, the EQUUS Foundation has invited ELCR to become part of the EQUUS Alliance. Established by the EQUUS Foundation Board of Directors in 2011 to recognize the contributions of organizations involved in the equine community whose activities and programs complement and enhance the mission of the EQUUS Foundation, the EQUUS Alliance offers a mechanism to address national areas of common interest in the equine community and the means to support programs of Alliance members that educate the public about horses, provide services that benefit the equine community, and help stimulate advocacy and volunteerism on behalf of horses.
“At ELCR, we are thrilled to partner with the EQUUS Foundation and become part of the EQUUS Alliance," noted Deb Balliet, CEO of the Equine Land Conservation Resource. “Our organizations have a common goal to enhance and preserve the connection between horses and the public, a goal which is critical to achieve towards our mission of conserving land for equine activities, pastures, farms, and trails.”
About the Equine Land Conservation Resource (ELCR): The Equine Land Conservation Resource is the only national not-for-profit organization advancing the conservation of land for horse-related activity. ELCR serves as an information resource and clearinghouse for land and horse owners on issues related to equine land conservation, land use planning, land stewardship/best management practices, trails, liability and equine economic development. For more information about the ELCR visit our website at www.elcr.org or call (859) 455-8383.
Renew Your AERC Membership Before February 1!
AERC's 2012 ride season is underway -- renew now to keep your points and miles accumulating . . . and your Endurance News delivery each month!
You can easily renew by:
1. Phoning the AERC office (866-271-2372) to renew with a Visa or MasterCard.
2. Renew online: http://www.doublejoy.com/erol/aerc/reg/
3. Fill out the paper form and mail it in to the office: http://aerc.org/upload/MembershipHorseCurrent.pdf
Besides renewing, we hope you are planning to help come to Reno on March 9 & 10 for the AERC convention. We'll be celebrating AERC's 40th anniversary and it should be a spectacular time. As always, the trade show and tack swap guarantee great merchandise, and the awards ceremonies are worthwhile, not to mention the informative and fun seminar program and dance and Hot Topics, and more!
For full details, call the office or click here the convention flyer/registration: http://www.aerc.org/upload/2012ConventionFlyer.pdf
Thanks your your past membership, and we hope to see you back on the trails this year!
The AERC Office Staff
Kathleen, Troy, Suzi, Judy and Rho
866-271-2372
aerc@foothill.net
P.S. Here's why you should renew before February 1 each year -- per rule 8.2, "Members whose dues are not paid by February 1st will receive no points or miles for rides held between December 1st and the date their membership is restored."
You can easily renew by:
1. Phoning the AERC office (866-271-2372) to renew with a Visa or MasterCard.
2. Renew online: http://www.doublejoy.com/erol/aerc/reg/
3. Fill out the paper form and mail it in to the office: http://aerc.org/upload/MembershipHorseCurrent.pdf
Besides renewing, we hope you are planning to help come to Reno on March 9 & 10 for the AERC convention. We'll be celebrating AERC's 40th anniversary and it should be a spectacular time. As always, the trade show and tack swap guarantee great merchandise, and the awards ceremonies are worthwhile, not to mention the informative and fun seminar program and dance and Hot Topics, and more!
For full details, call the office or click here the convention flyer/registration: http://www.aerc.org/upload/2012ConventionFlyer.pdf
Thanks your your past membership, and we hope to see you back on the trails this year!
The AERC Office Staff
Kathleen, Troy, Suzi, Judy and Rho
866-271-2372
aerc@foothill.net
P.S. Here's why you should renew before February 1 each year -- per rule 8.2, "Members whose dues are not paid by February 1st will receive no points or miles for rides held between December 1st and the date their membership is restored."
Three Additional EHV-1 Cases Confirmed in California
Thehorse.com - Full Article
by: Erica Larson, News Editor
January 18 2012, Article # 19462
Three additional cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) were confirmed in California over the weekend, bringing the total number of cases in the current outbreak to eight, according to a statement from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA).
On Jan. 11 a gelding residing on a "large multidiscipline facility with no movement of horses on or off the property" tested positive for the debilitating virus. He was quarantined on the farm and is receiving veterinary care.
On Jan. 12 testing confirmed that two additional horses on the property were EHV-1-positive. Those horses were also isolated and quarantined on the same farm and are receiving veterinary attention. On Jan. 13, two additional horses on the premises tested positive for the virus.
Over the weekend, three additional cases were confirmed. New information from the CDFA indicates that only one horse has displayed neurologic signs; however, all eight have been quarantined on the property and are receiving veterinary attention...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=19462
by: Erica Larson, News Editor
January 18 2012, Article # 19462
Three additional cases of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) were confirmed in California over the weekend, bringing the total number of cases in the current outbreak to eight, according to a statement from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA).
On Jan. 11 a gelding residing on a "large multidiscipline facility with no movement of horses on or off the property" tested positive for the debilitating virus. He was quarantined on the farm and is receiving veterinary care.
On Jan. 12 testing confirmed that two additional horses on the property were EHV-1-positive. Those horses were also isolated and quarantined on the same farm and are receiving veterinary attention. On Jan. 13, two additional horses on the premises tested positive for the virus.
Over the weekend, three additional cases were confirmed. New information from the CDFA indicates that only one horse has displayed neurologic signs; however, all eight have been quarantined on the property and are receiving veterinary attention...
Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=19462
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Easyboot Glove Wins Horse Journal's 2011 Product of the Year Award
January 17 2011
by Kevin Myers
(Tucson, AZ) EasyCare, Inc. has received one of the most prestigious prizes in the horse industry: the Easyboot Glove has been awarded the 2011 Horse Journal Product of the Year.
Launched in 2009, the Glove quickly became the best-selling hoof boot in the world. Sporting an aggressive ergonomically designed tread, the boot is unlike any other horse hoof boot because it has no clips, buckles or wires and can be easily applied to the barefoot hoof. The Glove is known for providing dependable, long-lasting hoof protection over any terrain.
The Product of the Year award follows closely on the heels of the Horse Journal's Best Buy award to the Easyboot Trail hoof boot in November 2011. The Easyboot Trail was designed with value for money and ease of use in mind. The Easyboot Trail's closure system makes it very uncomplicated to use, with no force required to apply or remove it. This makes the boot a top choice for leisure and trail riders.
These awards are of particular significance because the Easyboot Trail and the Easyboot Glove will be combined into a new hoof boot that is expected to be launched in April, 2011. "If this was a horse pedigree," said Garrett Ford, President and CEO of EasyCare, "and the Easyboot Glove was the sire and the Easyboot Trail was the dam, we would expect an exceptional colt!"
For more information on horse hoof boots, please see the EasyCare website at http://easycareinc.com and the EasyCare blog at http://blog.easycareinc.com. For all questions, contact Kevin Myers, Director of Marketing at marketing@easycareinc.com.
EasyCare Vision: We will be the global innovator in hoof care solutions that enhance the horse/human relationship.
by Kevin Myers
(Tucson, AZ) EasyCare, Inc. has received one of the most prestigious prizes in the horse industry: the Easyboot Glove has been awarded the 2011 Horse Journal Product of the Year.
Launched in 2009, the Glove quickly became the best-selling hoof boot in the world. Sporting an aggressive ergonomically designed tread, the boot is unlike any other horse hoof boot because it has no clips, buckles or wires and can be easily applied to the barefoot hoof. The Glove is known for providing dependable, long-lasting hoof protection over any terrain.
The Product of the Year award follows closely on the heels of the Horse Journal's Best Buy award to the Easyboot Trail hoof boot in November 2011. The Easyboot Trail was designed with value for money and ease of use in mind. The Easyboot Trail's closure system makes it very uncomplicated to use, with no force required to apply or remove it. This makes the boot a top choice for leisure and trail riders.
These awards are of particular significance because the Easyboot Trail and the Easyboot Glove will be combined into a new hoof boot that is expected to be launched in April, 2011. "If this was a horse pedigree," said Garrett Ford, President and CEO of EasyCare, "and the Easyboot Glove was the sire and the Easyboot Trail was the dam, we would expect an exceptional colt!"
For more information on horse hoof boots, please see the EasyCare website at http://easycareinc.com and the EasyCare blog at http://blog.easycareinc.com. For all questions, contact Kevin Myers, Director of Marketing at marketing@easycareinc.com.
EasyCare Vision: We will be the global innovator in hoof care solutions that enhance the horse/human relationship.
Lindsay Graham Juggles International Endurance Competition and Career as Veterinarian
Horsereporter.com - Full Article
January 16, 2012
By Pamela@horsereporter
January 15, 2012, Napa Valley, USA~ Lindsay Graham from Napa Valley, California, is looking forward to her first visit to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. She is one of two invited riders from the US to compete at the annual CEI 3* HH President of the UAE Endurance Ride, this year slated for February 11. Her mount will be Christopher Martin’s 10 year old, Monk.
You might call Lindsay Graham, goal oriented. The 29 year old, from Napa Valley, California, has recently graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine (2010) and jumped right into her full – time career as an Equine Veterinarian at Napa Valley Veterinary Hospital. “I like being a veterinarian,” said Graham. “I love being able to make horses feel better…and people to continue their partnership with their horse. As a rider, I can relate and understand.”
So far she is ticking the boxes of her life list. Get good grades in school – check. Compete on her hunter/jumper – check. Lindsay also rode hunter/jumpers on the UC Davis Equestrian Team. And yes, graduate from UC Davis – double check. These three goals the young Lindsay had written in a seventh grade project book...
Read more here:
http://siteground303.com/~horserep/2012/01/16/lindsay-graham-juggles-international-endurance-competition-and-career-as-veterinarian/
January 16, 2012
By Pamela@horsereporter
January 15, 2012, Napa Valley, USA~ Lindsay Graham from Napa Valley, California, is looking forward to her first visit to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. She is one of two invited riders from the US to compete at the annual CEI 3* HH President of the UAE Endurance Ride, this year slated for February 11. Her mount will be Christopher Martin’s 10 year old, Monk.
You might call Lindsay Graham, goal oriented. The 29 year old, from Napa Valley, California, has recently graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine (2010) and jumped right into her full – time career as an Equine Veterinarian at Napa Valley Veterinary Hospital. “I like being a veterinarian,” said Graham. “I love being able to make horses feel better…and people to continue their partnership with their horse. As a rider, I can relate and understand.”
So far she is ticking the boxes of her life list. Get good grades in school – check. Compete on her hunter/jumper – check. Lindsay also rode hunter/jumpers on the UC Davis Equestrian Team. And yes, graduate from UC Davis – double check. These three goals the young Lindsay had written in a seventh grade project book...
Read more here:
http://siteground303.com/~horserep/2012/01/16/lindsay-graham-juggles-international-endurance-competition-and-career-as-veterinarian/
Sunday, January 15, 2012
2011 Maggy Price Award to Dr. Meg Sleeper
January 15 2011
At USEF's Pegasus dinner honoring champions on Saturday January 14 2011, Meg Sleeper, an endurance rider from Frenchtown, N.J., won the Maggy Price Endurance Excellence Award. Sleeper topped the USEF Endurance Rider Ranking List in 2011. She is a veterinarian at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center.
At USEF's Pegasus dinner honoring champions on Saturday January 14 2011, Meg Sleeper, an endurance rider from Frenchtown, N.J., won the Maggy Price Endurance Excellence Award. Sleeper topped the USEF Endurance Rider Ranking List in 2011. She is a veterinarian at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
2012 AERC Scholarship Application
AERC will award a $1000 scholarship at the National Awards banquet at the AERC convention on March 10 2012.
The Scholarship s open to AERC members in good standing from their high school senior
year through age 21 (must be younger than 22 as of 1/1/2012). Applicants must have a minimum of 500 AERC lifetime miles, and must have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.
Applications are due February 13.
For more information and the application, go to
http://aerc.org/temp/2012AERCScholarshipApp.pdf
Monday, January 09, 2012
Horseback endurance ride at Houston Airport
January 8th, 2012 by Harriet Baskas
Horseback riding at the airport?
Yup. The volunteer Airport Rangers at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport do it year-round for recreation and to help patrol the airport’s grounds.
And on February 4th and 5th, 2012, 100 riders will show up for the 2nd Airport Express Endurance Ride through the 13,000 acres of groomed riding trails at the airport.
The goal of endurance riding is to complete a marked trail within the time given, as established by the American Endurance Ride Conference standards. Contestants in IAH’s ride will set out on 25 and 50 mile courses, but there will also a 10 mile “Fun Ride” for novice riders...
Read more here:
http://stuckattheairport.com/2012/01/08/horseback-endurance-ride-at-houston-airport/
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Western States Trail Work Schedule
January 8 2011
Greetings!
It's that time of year again to get out the Pulaskis and McLeods, chainsaws and clippers and give back to one of the world's greatest trails. Whether you're looking for a way to earn your service requirement hours or just want to help, there's sure to be a job for you. We've provided the dates, times and meeting locations of the planned events below. Please RSVP at your earliest convenience to trails@ws100.com.
Please remember that the United States Forest Service requires that you fill out, sign and send the Volunteer Liability Release Form (this is not the WS service requirement form) to the agency office before you can volunteer. You will not need a form for the first two scheduled work days but you will for March and all other dates. Accordingly, please have your form submitted no later than Friday, March 9. Instructions and a link to the PDF form are provided at ws100.com/projects.htm#fedform You can provide an electronic signature and send to the e-mail address provided or print, sign and fax or mail. Again, this is very important to the agency and they are important to us!
2012 Trail Work Projects
January 21
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
February 11
Cal 1/Cal 2 area
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
March 24
Volcano Canyon/El Dorado Canyon
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
April 21
Deadwood to Last Chance
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
May 12 (last day to earn service requirement hours for 2012 WS Run)
Pucker Point Trail
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 2 (these dates will serve as credit for 2013 WS Run)
Duncan Canyon
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 15-16 (Robinson Flat campout)
Red Star Ridge
Friday afternoon/Saturday, 8:30 am
Please remember to dress appropriately as the weather is unpredictable. Be sure to wear long pants and bring work gloves, water and a snack. A great lunch and beverages will be provided and waiting at the finish, typically around 1:30 pm. We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Donn Zea
Western States Endurance Run
Board of Trustees
Mike Shackelford
Western States Trail Foundation
Board of Governors
Greetings!
It's that time of year again to get out the Pulaskis and McLeods, chainsaws and clippers and give back to one of the world's greatest trails. Whether you're looking for a way to earn your service requirement hours or just want to help, there's sure to be a job for you. We've provided the dates, times and meeting locations of the planned events below. Please RSVP at your earliest convenience to trails@ws100.com.
Please remember that the United States Forest Service requires that you fill out, sign and send the Volunteer Liability Release Form (this is not the WS service requirement form) to the agency office before you can volunteer. You will not need a form for the first two scheduled work days but you will for March and all other dates. Accordingly, please have your form submitted no later than Friday, March 9. Instructions and a link to the PDF form are provided at ws100.com/projects.htm#fedform You can provide an electronic signature and send to the e-mail address provided or print, sign and fax or mail. Again, this is very important to the agency and they are important to us!
2012 Trail Work Projects
January 21
Hwy 49 to No Hands/Upper Pointed Rocks to No Hands
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Lower Quarry Parking Lot
February 11
Cal 1/Cal 2 area
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
March 24
Volcano Canyon/El Dorado Canyon
Meeting Time/place: 8:30 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
April 21
Deadwood to Last Chance
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
May 12 (last day to earn service requirement hours for 2012 WS Run)
Pucker Point Trail
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 2 (these dates will serve as credit for 2013 WS Run)
Duncan Canyon
8:00 am, Foresthill Joe's Coffee Shop
June 15-16 (Robinson Flat campout)
Red Star Ridge
Friday afternoon/Saturday, 8:30 am
Please remember to dress appropriately as the weather is unpredictable. Be sure to wear long pants and bring work gloves, water and a snack. A great lunch and beverages will be provided and waiting at the finish, typically around 1:30 pm. We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Donn Zea
Western States Endurance Run
Board of Trustees
Mike Shackelford
Western States Trail Foundation
Board of Governors
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Riding the Pony Express Trail: Part 3 with Tom Noll
Boisestatepublicradio.org - Full Story and Audio
Reported by Emily Schwing on Dec 30th, 2011
Boise, ID – This summer we introduced you to Boise resident Tom Noll.
He’s an endurance horseman and he spent more than eight weeks this summer on the 2000 mile Pony Express Trail with his horses, Frank and Whiskey. It’s been four months since Noll returned from his trip.
He has a PhD in Econometrics and his coworkers at Idaho Power like to call him Dr. Tom. After he returned from his adventure on the Pony Express trail, they all piled into an auditorium at the power company’s headquarters in down town Boise to hear the doctor’s story. It was standing room only.
“People have written me and said ‘Tom you gave that talk and it gave me the motivation to get up and do something.’ One woman said she was going to do a pilgrimage trip in Europe,” says Noll. “Another person I know, he’s a high altitude climber and he said you know none of us are getting any younger, these are my years and I’m gonna focus on climbing an eight thousand meter peak, so those are… those are things I never thought would happen,” he says.
Since he’s returned, he says his writing at work has become more fluid and creative and he has a new perspective when it comes to some of the quantitative work he does for Idaho Power. Noll’s theory is that the Pony Express Trail got his creative juices flowing...
Read more here and listen:
http://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/2011/12/30/riding-the-pony-express-trail-part-3/?mid=571
Reported by Emily Schwing on Dec 30th, 2011
Boise, ID – This summer we introduced you to Boise resident Tom Noll.
He’s an endurance horseman and he spent more than eight weeks this summer on the 2000 mile Pony Express Trail with his horses, Frank and Whiskey. It’s been four months since Noll returned from his trip.
He has a PhD in Econometrics and his coworkers at Idaho Power like to call him Dr. Tom. After he returned from his adventure on the Pony Express trail, they all piled into an auditorium at the power company’s headquarters in down town Boise to hear the doctor’s story. It was standing room only.
“People have written me and said ‘Tom you gave that talk and it gave me the motivation to get up and do something.’ One woman said she was going to do a pilgrimage trip in Europe,” says Noll. “Another person I know, he’s a high altitude climber and he said you know none of us are getting any younger, these are my years and I’m gonna focus on climbing an eight thousand meter peak, so those are… those are things I never thought would happen,” he says.
Since he’s returned, he says his writing at work has become more fluid and creative and he has a new perspective when it comes to some of the quantitative work he does for Idaho Power. Noll’s theory is that the Pony Express Trail got his creative juices flowing...
Read more here and listen:
http://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/2011/12/30/riding-the-pony-express-trail-part-3/?mid=571
Friday, January 06, 2012
EasyCare Announces the 2011 $10,000 Hoof Boot Contest Results
For Immediate Release
Friday, January 6, 2012
For further information, contact Kevin Myers, EasyCare Inc.
520-297-1900 x 2238
by Kevin Myers
(Tucson, AZ) EasyCare announced today the results of the 2011 edition of the $10,000 Hoof Boot Contest. Riders enrolled in the sixth annual EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest accumulated more than 25,000 miles across two disciplines.
20 competitors earned $10,000 in cash and product based on their total annual mileage accumulations. "Now that the results have been tabulated," said Garrett Ford, President and CEO of EasyCare, "we can give back to the community who puts the most miles on Easyboots."
Endurance Division
Winner of the 2011 EasyCare Endurance Hoof Boot Contest is Carla Richardson, who rode a staggering 2,525 miles with SS Kharady Khid. She and Khid will also win the coveted AERC 2011 National Mileage Award. Carla and Khid completed 50 endurance rides in the 2011 ride season. Khid now boasts 6,635 career miles. Debbie Boscoe rode SRT Sizzling Sage and Scarlet Wind Song to second place with an accumulated 1,915 miles. New to hoof boots, Debbie was one of the highest mileage competitors at the 2011 2,000-mile XP ride from Missouri to California. In third place is 2010 Hoof Boot Contest winner, Terri Tinkham, who rode Oliver Twist for a total of 1,435 miles.
CTR Division
Winner of the 2011 EasyCare CTR Hoof Boot Contest is Mary Lambert. Mary rode High Tail Hanna and IM Bronze to a combined total of 375 miles. Bill Wingle rode Mariah for to second place with a total of 372 miles. Sheryl O'Brian rode Psyches Amore and Truimage of Gold into third place with a total of 350 miles.
For a full listing of the 2011 Hoof Boot Contest results, go the 2011 EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest page.
Easyboot is the official hoof boot of NATRC, AERC and Tevis 2012.
For more information on horse hoof boots, please see the EasyCare website at http://easycareinc.com and the EasyCare blog at http://blog.easycareinc.com. For questions from dealers, please contact Brian Mueller at bmueller@easycareinc.com. For all additional questions, contact Kevin Myers, Director of Marketing at marketing@easycareinc.com.
EasyCare Vision: We will be the global innovator in hoof care solutions that enhance the horse/human relationship.
About EasyCare: What began in 1970 with the invention of the Easyboot has since grown into a full line of hoof boots and natural hoof care products that protect the hoof, allow horses to cover rough terrain, act as a spare tire in case of a lost shoe, and aid in the treatment of laminitis and other hoof problems. EasyCare’s hoof boot brands include the Easyboot, Glove, Epic, Boa Horse Boot, Old Mac’s and EasySoaker. While our main focus at EasyCare is horse boot design, we proudly make other top quality products for trail riders and recreational horse owners such as Stowaway Saddle Packs, EZ Ride Stirrups, Comfort Pads, hoof boot accessories and natural hoof care products.
Friday, January 6, 2012
For further information, contact Kevin Myers, EasyCare Inc.
520-297-1900 x 2238
by Kevin Myers
(Tucson, AZ) EasyCare announced today the results of the 2011 edition of the $10,000 Hoof Boot Contest. Riders enrolled in the sixth annual EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest accumulated more than 25,000 miles across two disciplines.
20 competitors earned $10,000 in cash and product based on their total annual mileage accumulations. "Now that the results have been tabulated," said Garrett Ford, President and CEO of EasyCare, "we can give back to the community who puts the most miles on Easyboots."
Endurance Division
Winner of the 2011 EasyCare Endurance Hoof Boot Contest is Carla Richardson, who rode a staggering 2,525 miles with SS Kharady Khid. She and Khid will also win the coveted AERC 2011 National Mileage Award. Carla and Khid completed 50 endurance rides in the 2011 ride season. Khid now boasts 6,635 career miles. Debbie Boscoe rode SRT Sizzling Sage and Scarlet Wind Song to second place with an accumulated 1,915 miles. New to hoof boots, Debbie was one of the highest mileage competitors at the 2011 2,000-mile XP ride from Missouri to California. In third place is 2010 Hoof Boot Contest winner, Terri Tinkham, who rode Oliver Twist for a total of 1,435 miles.
CTR Division
Winner of the 2011 EasyCare CTR Hoof Boot Contest is Mary Lambert. Mary rode High Tail Hanna and IM Bronze to a combined total of 375 miles. Bill Wingle rode Mariah for to second place with a total of 372 miles. Sheryl O'Brian rode Psyches Amore and Truimage of Gold into third place with a total of 350 miles.
For a full listing of the 2011 Hoof Boot Contest results, go the 2011 EasyCare Hoof Boot Contest page.
Easyboot is the official hoof boot of NATRC, AERC and Tevis 2012.
For more information on horse hoof boots, please see the EasyCare website at http://easycareinc.com and the EasyCare blog at http://blog.easycareinc.com. For questions from dealers, please contact Brian Mueller at bmueller@easycareinc.com. For all additional questions, contact Kevin Myers, Director of Marketing at marketing@easycareinc.com.
EasyCare Vision: We will be the global innovator in hoof care solutions that enhance the horse/human relationship.
About EasyCare: What began in 1970 with the invention of the Easyboot has since grown into a full line of hoof boots and natural hoof care products that protect the hoof, allow horses to cover rough terrain, act as a spare tire in case of a lost shoe, and aid in the treatment of laminitis and other hoof problems. EasyCare’s hoof boot brands include the Easyboot, Glove, Epic, Boa Horse Boot, Old Mac’s and EasySoaker. While our main focus at EasyCare is horse boot design, we proudly make other top quality products for trail riders and recreational horse owners such as Stowaway Saddle Packs, EZ Ride Stirrups, Comfort Pads, hoof boot accessories and natural hoof care products.
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
It's easy to find the high notes in 2011, too
DCourier.com - Full Article
12/30/11
If you have been reading The Daily Courier's Top 10 stories of 2011, you might not find much to celebrate.
While some of the newsmakers are now making their homes in prison cells, appearing in court, heaping insults on each other and generally behaving badly, a lot of bright lights in our communities simply continue to strive for excellence in their chosen fields of endeavor.
In honor of the Prescott area's ranching and equine heritage, we'll bring you two of those achievers from 2011 - Jon Gilbert of Dewey-Humboldt and endurance rider Dayna Weary of Prescott.
Jon, who with his wife Marywade, runs Horsebreakers Unlimited, a horse breeding, training and boarding business in Dewey-Humboldt that handles some of top horses in the nation, won a championship in the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) North American Affiliate Reining Finals in Oklahoma City.
Gilbert and his 9-year-old bay gelding horse "Lewis" won over 109 other riders from throughout North America to win the Prime Time Non Pro Division, among other placings at the event.
Reining is an equine sport in which a horse and rider execute a pattern of circles, spins, and stops. It is a precise discipline in which the rider/horse team has to work together with very little evidence of guidance from the rider. Winning takes a responsive horse, a patient, skilled rider and a lot of practice. Winning at the national level is an achievement worth some pretty big bragging rights.
Weary has been riding in endurance races for many years, and is a past winner of the grueling local 50-mile Man Against Horse Race over Mingus Mountain and back. But the big prize she has had her eye on for years is the famous 100-mile Western States Trail Ride, or Tevis Cup, endurance ride that begins near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevadas and ends within 24 hours in Auburn, Calif. The ride is famous for its difficult terrain and capricious weather. Winning it takes a perfectly conditioned horse, a savvy rider, and a precision support crew...
Read more here:
http://www.dcourier.com/Main.asp?SectionID=36&SubSectionID=73&ArticleID=101646
12/30/11
If you have been reading The Daily Courier's Top 10 stories of 2011, you might not find much to celebrate.
While some of the newsmakers are now making their homes in prison cells, appearing in court, heaping insults on each other and generally behaving badly, a lot of bright lights in our communities simply continue to strive for excellence in their chosen fields of endeavor.
In honor of the Prescott area's ranching and equine heritage, we'll bring you two of those achievers from 2011 - Jon Gilbert of Dewey-Humboldt and endurance rider Dayna Weary of Prescott.
Jon, who with his wife Marywade, runs Horsebreakers Unlimited, a horse breeding, training and boarding business in Dewey-Humboldt that handles some of top horses in the nation, won a championship in the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) North American Affiliate Reining Finals in Oklahoma City.
Gilbert and his 9-year-old bay gelding horse "Lewis" won over 109 other riders from throughout North America to win the Prime Time Non Pro Division, among other placings at the event.
Reining is an equine sport in which a horse and rider execute a pattern of circles, spins, and stops. It is a precise discipline in which the rider/horse team has to work together with very little evidence of guidance from the rider. Winning takes a responsive horse, a patient, skilled rider and a lot of practice. Winning at the national level is an achievement worth some pretty big bragging rights.
Weary has been riding in endurance races for many years, and is a past winner of the grueling local 50-mile Man Against Horse Race over Mingus Mountain and back. But the big prize she has had her eye on for years is the famous 100-mile Western States Trail Ride, or Tevis Cup, endurance ride that begins near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevadas and ends within 24 hours in Auburn, Calif. The ride is famous for its difficult terrain and capricious weather. Winning it takes a perfectly conditioned horse, a savvy rider, and a precision support crew...
Read more here:
http://www.dcourier.com/Main.asp?SectionID=36&SubSectionID=73&ArticleID=101646
2012 will see some happy (and not so happy) anniversaries for Auburn
Kim Palaferri/Auburn Journal
Auburnjournal.com - Full Article
January 2 2012
Auburn, Placer County communities mark several milestones this year
By Gus Thomson Journal Staff Writer
Stoic, picturesque and turning a century old, Mountain Quarries Railroad Bridge leads the local list of milestone birthdays in 2012.
Now a popular site for photographers, hikers, horse riders and runners, the span over the American River was initially constructed by the Pacific Portland Cement Co. to help transport limestone from a Cool mining operation for use in making concrete.
When it was constructed, it was the longest concrete-arch bridge in the world. Today, it’s perhaps best known as the symbolic start of the final leg of both the Western States 100 Endurance Run and Tevis Cup 100-mile endurance horse ride.
Another 100-year anniversary for the Auburn-area will take place in November, marking the centennial of Auburn writer Clark Ashton Smith’s first book, “The Star Treader and Other Poems.” Smith would be dubbed the “Junior Poet of the Sierras” in 1912 because of his rich use of the English language, but would go on to lasting fame for his science fiction and fantasy writing.
Auburn can even boast some 160th anniversaries as 2012 dawns. The year 1852 marked the initial publication of the Placer Herald in Auburn. Now based in Rocklin, the paper is part of the Gold Country Media cluster of publications. The Auburn Journal was founded 20 years later and is celebrating 140 years in print.
Also blowing out 160 candles this year are the Auburn Oddfellows Lodge, Old Town’s Station A post office and the Auburn Hook & Ladder Company.
May will mark the 130th anniversary of the death of Claude Chana, the expatriate native of France who first discovered gold in Auburn. He died May 24, 1882 at age 71 in Wheatland...
Read more here:
http://auburnjournal.com/detail/196761.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=
Equestrian Legends Episode 13 – Endurance Rider Julie Suhr
Horseradionetwork.com - Listen to Julie's interview
January 2 2011
Californian Julie Suhr has broken records in Endurance competitions and milestones in horseback adventures around the globe. With a recorded 30,282 miles in competition which represents 63 one hundred mile rides and almost 500 fifty mile rides, Julie last completed the Tevis Cup at the age of 76 although four years later she made her final attempt and came within two miles of another record finish.. Listen in…
Equestrian Legends Episode 13 – Show Notes and Links:
Show Host: Chris Stafford, follow Chris on Twitter
Photo Credit: Julie Suhr
Guest: Californian Julie Suhr has broken records in Endurance competitions and milestones in horseback adventures around the globe. Since her first ride in the world renown 100 mile Tevis Cup, Julie has completed twenty-two times out of twenty-nine starts. She has collected three Haggin Cups for the Best Conditioned Horse to finish in the Top Ten and she famously garnered three in one year – the Turtle Award for being last to finish; the Hard Luck Award when her horse fell and she endured a full body mud bath and for being the Oldest rider. With a recorded 30,282 miles in competition which represents 63 one hundred mile rides and almost 500 fifty mile rides, Julie last completed the Tevis Cup at the age of 76 although four years later she made her final attempt and came within two miles of another record finish. Her adventure rides have taken her from the remote expanses of Outer Mongolia to the searing heights of the Himalayas. The author of Ten Feet Tall Still, Julie is working on a second book and still sitting tall in the saddle at 87. Julie and Bob Suhr (deceased) have three children, Barbara, Robert, Nancy (deceased) and John as well as six grandchildren. Julie lives in Scotts Valley, California.
Listen to the interview here!:
http://www.horseradionetwork.com/2012/01/02/equestrian-legends-episode-13-endurance-rider-julie-suhr/
January 2 2011
Californian Julie Suhr has broken records in Endurance competitions and milestones in horseback adventures around the globe. With a recorded 30,282 miles in competition which represents 63 one hundred mile rides and almost 500 fifty mile rides, Julie last completed the Tevis Cup at the age of 76 although four years later she made her final attempt and came within two miles of another record finish.. Listen in…
Equestrian Legends Episode 13 – Show Notes and Links:
Show Host: Chris Stafford, follow Chris on Twitter
Photo Credit: Julie Suhr
Guest: Californian Julie Suhr has broken records in Endurance competitions and milestones in horseback adventures around the globe. Since her first ride in the world renown 100 mile Tevis Cup, Julie has completed twenty-two times out of twenty-nine starts. She has collected three Haggin Cups for the Best Conditioned Horse to finish in the Top Ten and she famously garnered three in one year – the Turtle Award for being last to finish; the Hard Luck Award when her horse fell and she endured a full body mud bath and for being the Oldest rider. With a recorded 30,282 miles in competition which represents 63 one hundred mile rides and almost 500 fifty mile rides, Julie last completed the Tevis Cup at the age of 76 although four years later she made her final attempt and came within two miles of another record finish. Her adventure rides have taken her from the remote expanses of Outer Mongolia to the searing heights of the Himalayas. The author of Ten Feet Tall Still, Julie is working on a second book and still sitting tall in the saddle at 87. Julie and Bob Suhr (deceased) have three children, Barbara, Robert, Nancy (deceased) and John as well as six grandchildren. Julie lives in Scotts Valley, California.
Listen to the interview here!:
http://www.horseradionetwork.com/2012/01/02/equestrian-legends-episode-13-endurance-rider-julie-suhr/
Sunday, January 01, 2012
2011 Resolution Ride Results
January 21 2012
2011 Resolution Ride 25/50/100
Results:
100; 14 start 10 finish
1. Tennessee Mahoney - DWA Pearl
1. Clydea Hastie - CR Zebra Splash
1. Dennis Summers - Bogard **Best Condition**
4. Kevin Myers
4. Kevin Waters
6. Rusty Toth
7. Pete H on a mule
8. Kerry Redente
9. Julia Elias
10. Effee Connor
Winning ride time 12:35
50 miles: 28 start 19 finish
1st Tammy Haggin - winning time 5:37
**Best Condition** - Janis Taylor
25 miles: 20 start 17 finish
ride time 3:11
2011 Resolution Ride 25/50/100
Results:
100; 14 start 10 finish
1. Tennessee Mahoney - DWA Pearl
1. Clydea Hastie - CR Zebra Splash
1. Dennis Summers - Bogard **Best Condition**
4. Kevin Myers
4. Kevin Waters
6. Rusty Toth
7. Pete H on a mule
8. Kerry Redente
9. Julia Elias
10. Effee Connor
Winning ride time 12:35
50 miles: 28 start 19 finish
1st Tammy Haggin - winning time 5:37
**Best Condition** - Janis Taylor
25 miles: 20 start 17 finish
ride time 3:11
Thursday, December 29, 2011
AERC Election Results
December 28 2011
ELECTION RESULTS:
From the Southwest Region, Julia Lynn-Elias, DVM, and from the Northeast Region, Nick Kohut, DVM, and Patti Stedman, will be sworn in as new AERC Regional Directors at the 2012 AERC convention. Representing the Mountain region will be Susan Shomburg and Jan Stevens; in the West, Maryben Stover and Forrest Tancer; Roger Taylor will continue as the Southwest Region's other regional director. All other incumbent regional directors will be continuing on for the next two-year term.
For more information, see
http://aerc.org/
ELECTION RESULTS:
From the Southwest Region, Julia Lynn-Elias, DVM, and from the Northeast Region, Nick Kohut, DVM, and Patti Stedman, will be sworn in as new AERC Regional Directors at the 2012 AERC convention. Representing the Mountain region will be Susan Shomburg and Jan Stevens; in the West, Maryben Stover and Forrest Tancer; Roger Taylor will continue as the Southwest Region's other regional director. All other incumbent regional directors will be continuing on for the next two-year term.
For more information, see
http://aerc.org/
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Ellen Olson and SA Belshazzar win winter FEI 160K in Florida
Horsereporter Blog Full Article
by Pam Burton
December 22 2011
December 18, 2011~The Goeth Challenge Endurance Ride, the last FEI ride of 2011, was also the first ride of the 2012 United States Equestrian Federation year. Held at the Goethe State Forest west of Ocala, Florida, the December 17 competition included 80,120 & 160k divisions. Many endurance trainers from the cold north are taking their winter barns to this area to condition and compete in the temperate Florida climate.
160K CEI 3*
On a day that saw temperatures at 75F (24C), 21 horse/riders took the trail in the 160K, 9 riding in the FEI Division. Ride Camp was located at the nearby Black Prong Equestrian Center.
Taking a break from her training position in Qatar, Ellen Olson took home the winning time and Best Condition on the Shagya, SA Belshazzar (Bayram x Jay El Tongafarah ox), in the 160 CEI3* with a ride time of 9:33 and an average speed of 16.80kph.
“Zar had a fantastic day,” said Olson. “This year he is the strongest yet of his career. We were near the front all day. Darolyn Butler and Valary Kanavy were in front positions as well. The trail was deep sand and very concussive road. There was actually a big turnout for each distance, over 100 riders for a one day ride..."
Read more here:
http://blog.horsereporter.com/2011/12/22/ellen-olson-and-sa-belshazzar-win-winter-fei-160k-in-florida/
by Pam Burton
December 22 2011
December 18, 2011~The Goeth Challenge Endurance Ride, the last FEI ride of 2011, was also the first ride of the 2012 United States Equestrian Federation year. Held at the Goethe State Forest west of Ocala, Florida, the December 17 competition included 80,120 & 160k divisions. Many endurance trainers from the cold north are taking their winter barns to this area to condition and compete in the temperate Florida climate.
160K CEI 3*
On a day that saw temperatures at 75F (24C), 21 horse/riders took the trail in the 160K, 9 riding in the FEI Division. Ride Camp was located at the nearby Black Prong Equestrian Center.
Taking a break from her training position in Qatar, Ellen Olson took home the winning time and Best Condition on the Shagya, SA Belshazzar (Bayram x Jay El Tongafarah ox), in the 160 CEI3* with a ride time of 9:33 and an average speed of 16.80kph.
“Zar had a fantastic day,” said Olson. “This year he is the strongest yet of his career. We were near the front all day. Darolyn Butler and Valary Kanavy were in front positions as well. The trail was deep sand and very concussive road. There was actually a big turnout for each distance, over 100 riders for a one day ride..."
Read more here:
http://blog.horsereporter.com/2011/12/22/ellen-olson-and-sa-belshazzar-win-winter-fei-160k-in-florida/
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