Should AERC sever ties to AERC-International?

On October 20, AERC member Ed Hauser wrote the AERC board (and copied to Ridecamp at endurance.net) the following recommendation: “The AERC-I should be spun off as a completely independent entity with absolutely no connection with AERC.” This suggestion literally cracked the flood gates with the volume of AERC members writing directly to the entire Board or Board members they knew personally with comments both pro and con on this recommendation. This was an unprecedented outpouring of thoughtful, well-reasoned, heart-felt comments, eclipsing any other issue previously facing the AERC in our experience as Board members.

Since spring, the Board has been deeply troubled by documented doping and horse welfare abuses in some elite international FEI endurance rides, particularly in FEI Zone VII. On June 15, the AERC released a very specific and powerful letter to USEF (and thus FEI) recognizing the gravity of these issues and encouraging specific and forceful action to address a profoundly unacceptable circumstance; that letter is archived both on the AERC website and endurance.net. Indeed, because of this letter and similar letters from other countries, the Endurance Strategic Planning Group at the FEI Generally Assembly in Montreux last week called for “Immediate and sustainable action to safeguard the welfare of horses and reinforce the FEI’s anti-doping and fair play policies at Endurance events globally.” But words alone are not sufficient.

Given the growing toxic nature of the FEI controversy and the obvious controversy within AERC about the future of AERC-International (AERC-I), the Board has prepared a more detailed, more explicit letter addressing the FEI controversy that will be sent directly to FEI. We are hopeful that this letter will be ratified by the AERC Board of Directors and distributed as soon as possible.

Unlike other previous AERC issues, we are taking unprecedented steps to comment publicly and in detail about an issue that is currently before the board. We are doing this because we are both deeply and profoundly disturbed by the doping and on-going welfare abuses. Also, we are doing this publicly since we are Directors-at-Large. You as our constituents deserve to know our opinions about issues that obviously move a great number of AERC members to express such strong positive and negative feelings.

It is important to realize that this is our personal analysis of the situation and only that. It does NOT necessarily reflect an official AERC Board opinion or the opinion of any other AERC Board members.

Undisputed facts

1) Number of positive medication and doping cases is much higher in FEI endurance than other FEI disciplines (www.fei.org, Tables 1 – 4). Most of the horses suspended originate from FEI Zone VII (specifically United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan), and most of the suspended riders are endurance riders.

2) Orthopedic injuries in FEI horses competing in the 2007-2008 season were similar in nature and frequency to those in flat-track racing horses (Misheff et al, 2010; Nagy et al, 2012, Coombs, 2012). During that season, treating veterinarians recorded one fracture per 236 starts. To provide a perspective on these numbers, consider the following: If a similar frequency of orthopedic injuries occurred in the roughly 140,000 AERC endurance starts (50 miles or greater) from 2002 through 2012, we would see nearly 600 AERC horses with such crippling orthropedic injuries to require either surgical repair or euthanasia.

3) FEI is entirely nontransparent about the number of injuries and deaths occurring in their sport events. The orthopedic injuries in endurance horses were compiled and reported in European scientific papers by treating veterinarians and surgeons. While there are many anecdotal reports of multiple horse fatalities at FEI endurance rides abroad, FEI refuses to release fatality statistics.

4) AERC-I is a relatively small subset of the AERC membership. Its formal membership over the last four years ranged from a high of 352 in 2010 to a low of 328 in 2011 and 2012, representing roughly 6% of AERC members. Not all these AERC members participate in FEI rides that in the United States are, for the most part, dual sanctioned with AERC, but these are AERC members who made a monetary contribution to AERC-I. (Full disclosure: we are not AERC-I members.) Based on the results of last year’s survey, the general AERC membership ranked “International/FEI” as the lowest priority of all activities surveyed, even below Breed awards.

5) Over the past four years, the AERC has dual sanctioned with FEI between 8 -11 rides annually. There is good evidence that the FEI co-sponsored events robustly supports concurrent AERC events and synergistically generates a higher total rider attendance than would be possible without FEI involvement.

6) To the best of our knowledge, the FEI rides dual sanctioned with the AERC over the last ten years have a history of no drug violations. Frequency of fatalities is unknown as FEI is not forthcoming with those statistics describing equine deaths in North American FEI endurance events.

Our interpretation

1) There are profoundly unacceptable doping and welfare issues occurring in elite FEI overseas endurance rides, and these abuses originate largely from FEI Zone VII countries. But these abuses are not occurring in AERC-dual sanctioned rides in the US and Canada (and likely not in various other countries such as Australia and Japan).

2) While we are not FEI veterinarians, we have vetted roughly 20 rides that have had concurrent FEI events. Also while vetting strictly AERC rides, we have directly observed AERC members who on occasion will participate as FEI riders. Whether they are riding FEI or riding AERC, these AERC members, as a group, are as committed to horse welfare and a level-playing field as any other group of AERC members. As one FEI/AERC member wrote colorfully to the board: “There is only one butt in each saddle, and only one person ultimately responsible for the horse. Attached to that butt is a code of ethics, which is completely up to the rider.”

What are our fundamental guidelines that we use to make decisions as AERC board members?

1) The AERC’s first job is to promote diverse, quality endurance riding opportunities in North America and elsewhere for AERC members. These endurance riding opportunities are truly the AERC’s “big tent” ranging from limited distance rides to 100-mile rides to multi-day endurance rides that might be better called endurance expeditions. This “big tent” philosophy also embraces very competitive events where horses are allowed to work at speed on challenging courses but under very strict veterinary control. Whatever level our AERC members aspire to in endurance, we want to personally support them and believe the AERC Board should enthusiastically support them as well.

2) Here’s the only caveat on the above statement: We use the AERC mission statement as our primary guideline to identify which AERC initiatives to support and which other international endurance groups to liaison with. We emphatically believe that “Part of AERC's mission is to attract and reward members who act to insure the highest priority for their horses' immediate and long-term physical and emotional health and well-being.” It is worthwhile for every AERC member to review the four sentences in our mission statement.

So what should the AERC do in view of the current FEI endurance debacle?

1) There are significant rumblings in Europe about the formation of a new international equestrian association to promote endurance riding worldwide that will truly make horse welfare paramount. AERC should monitor and even participate in these discussions. If FEI does not act, then AERC should consider severing current ties and developing new ties with a new international association. We think this course of action is entirely appropriate, unless FEI can demonstrate extraordinary efforts to enforce their rules and show positive results in horse welfare issues. As veterinarians and scientists, this mandates transparency of fatality data, at least at a level that mirrors AERC’s own policies.

2) Rather than cutting the umbilical cord between AERC-I and AERC, we would rather see the AERC-I committee become much less FEI-centric. AERC-I should also promote AERC members riding in overseas events that are not-FEI sanctioned and frequently more in sync with the AERC philosophy “To finish is to win” and celebrating horse longevity (miles and years) in this endurance sport. Exemplifying this positive synergy is the interchange between two of the most premiere 100-mile endurance rides in the world - The Tevis Cup in California and The Tom Quilty Ride in Australia. Organized at the ride level, there is a regular exchange of veterinarians between these two rides to encourage worldwide appreciation of cutting edge veterinary control and treatment. Whether formally organized or not, there is a surprising number of AERC members who have already taken great pride and pleasure in riding the Quilty. We are also pleasantly surprised by the number of Australians that have ridden the Tevis. (Full disclosure: we are riding on the coat tails of another AERC Board member who suggested this idea on the board forum.)

3) In summary, we cannot support severing AERC-I from the AERC as we believe that would reduce riding opportunities for AERC members who respect horse welfare. However, we will advocate that AERC officially sever ties with FEI unless: 1) the FEI can expeditiously and convincingly address the above abuses and, 2) becomes transparent with fatality and injury data to provide independent confirmation of the success of their reforms. Additionally, we advocate that AERC-I be restructured to support non-FEI international riding as well as FEI-riding overseas for AERC members, but predicated on the condition that FEI genuinely and permanently reforms itself. Least we forget, our AERC Vision Statement is “To be the preeminent authority and leader in developing and promoting the sport and pastime of endurance riding in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world.”


Sincerely,

Olin Balch, DVM, MS, PhD
AERC, Director-at-Large

Susan Garlinghouse, DVM, MS
AERC, Director-at-Large

Co-signers: Bruce Weary, DC, AERC, Director-at-Large; Maryben Stover, Regional Director - West; Steph Teeter, Regional Director

Minot parade celebrates women's spirit of adventure

Sunjournal.com - Full Article

Lindsay Tice, Staff Writer
Lewiston-Auburn | Saturday, November 9, 2013

MINOT — Fifty-nine years ago, Annie Wilkins left her Minot home to travel to California.

On a horse.

With her dog.

At nearly 63 years old.

A woman who liked to wear pants and speak her mind, she wasn't well-regarded by local folks at the time. Some breathed a sigh of relief when she left.

But Wilkins — also known as Mesannie or Jackass Annie because she rode a donkey to her job at a Lewiston shoe shop — would become famous for the journey. And her odyssey, documented in her book, "Last of the Saddle Tramps," would inspire others to ride across the country.

On Saturday, nearly 59 years to the days since Wilkins left for her trip, Minot welcomed the latest of those riders — and celebrated Wilkins' spirit — with a 100-person parade along Jackass Annie Road.

"Women can do stuff just as good as the guys, maybe different stuff, maybe in a different way," that latest cross-country rider, Sea G Rhydr, told the crowd...

Read more here:
http://www.sunjournal.com/news/lewiston-auburn/2013/11/10/minot-parade-celebrates-womens-spirit-adventure/1449553

November 12: New Episode of Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning

Horsesinthemorning.com

Next Tuesday morning, November 12, is Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning. Tune in live from 6 to 7:30 a.m. PST, or listen to the recorded show later in the day. Aarene Storms will be talking about Endurance 101 and Angie McGhee tells us all about The Lighter Side of Endurance. To get the phone app, or listen online: http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/. Please share with your riding friends - the endurance show has become their most popular morning show on the Horse Radio Network!

Endurance rider writes about going bitless

Peninsuladailynews.com - Full Article

KAREN GRIFFITHS' HORSEPLAY COLUMN

A FAVORITE TRAIL ride of mine is from Littleton Horse Camp to the Mount Muller summit.

I've ridden it several times, and each time, I find myself awestruck by the majestic views of Sol Duc Valley, Lake Crescent and the Olympic Mountains.

It should be said a horse needs to be in shape to travel the roughly 13-mile loop because it has a fairly steep incline and decline.

And while Lisa claims her Akhal-Teke, a horse bred for speed and endurance, was “not in race shape” for their October trek up the mountain, I happen to know the two, who compete in endurance racing, are always in good condition — even in the winter.

I know because almost daily, I can look out my window — where I sit perched atop my easy chair and sipping tea next to my warm wood stove — and see them journey past to embark on the Cassidy Creek DNR trail system...

Read more here:
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/article/20131106/NEWS/311069999/karen-griffiths-horseplay-column-endurance-rider-writes-about-going

Memorial Donations honoring Jim Larimer

AERC.org

MEMORIAL DONATIONS in honor of longtime endurance rider Jim Larimer, who passed away recently, may be sent to the Wendell and Inez Robie Foundation, P.O. Box 714, Foresthill, CA 95631. Jim had 8 Tevis Cup completions and was instrumental in developing the California Loop section of the Western States Trail.

AERC Regional Director Ballots

AERC.org

November 2 2013

Regional Director ballots have been mailed to the 3 regions with elections: Northeast (running are Robert Gielen, Skip Kemerer and Nick Kohut, DVM); Northwest (Paul Latiolais, John Parkey and Steph Teeter), and West (Dianna Chapek, Antonio Corbelletta, Andrew Gerhard and Forrest Tancer). Please read over the candidates' statements and contact the candidates if you have any questions. Ballots are due to the independent counting agency by the end of November. Send in your votes in the envelopes provided!

Horse Hit the Trail for 600 Mile California Mission Ride

California’s 21 missions were founded by Franciscan missionaries and built by Indian tribes during the Spanish colonial era. The missions dot the coastline from Sonoma to the Mexican border.  Meet two women who decided to ride and film an educational documentary as they ride horseback from mission to mission.
 
www.EquineVIP.com  “If It’s About Horses, We Cover It.” 
Equine VIP can be seen on RFD-TV’s “Rural TV” line up. 
For more information: Susan@equineVIP.com   

OT Sara Moniet RSI Featured in 2014 Line of Breyer Models

Merri Melde photo
October 30 2013

Crockett Dumas' endurance mare OT Sara Moniet will be one of the new 2014 Breyer horse models.

Winner of the 2011 awards Arabian Horses Association (AHA) Distance Horse of the Year, AERC Distance Horse of the Year, and the Institute for the Desert Arabian Horses Drinkers of the Wind Challenge Champion, OT Sara Moniet had an outstanding 2011 record of 31 starts and completions and 1675 miles, with 2 100-mile completions and 9 Best Condition Awards.

The 9-year-old mare currently has 4355 miles with 83 completions in 86 starts, with 16 overall Best Conditions.

Tevis Cup Trail - American Fire Restoration Fundraiser

2013 WSTF Golf Tournament

Tevis Cup Trail and American Fire Restoration Fundraiser

Join us for a great day of golf as we support our beloved trail and the efforts in rebuilding after this summer's fire. 

Click HERE for more information!

Location:
Winchester Country Club
3030 Legends Drive, Meadow Vista, CA 95722

Cost: $135.00 per golfer 
or 
$30.00 for dinner only

Check-in: 9 AM

Shotgun Start: 10 AM

Format: Scramble

Includes: 18 Holes of Golf, Cart, Long Drive Contest,
Closest to the pin, Putting, Raffle and more!
Lunch and Dinner with No Host Bar after the Round.
 
For more information contact Kathy:
1-530-878-3897
kathysouthgate@msn.com 

Please donate on our website, www.teviscup.org.
You will see a button that says DONATE on the left sidebar.

Tevis Cup Ride a tradition since 1955

Journalstar.com - Full Article

October 22, 2013 9:53 am • by Brenda Messick / for Star City Sports

The Western States Trail Ride, called the Tevis Cup Ride, is a 100-mile endurance ride, held annually since August 1955.

The ride organizer, Wendell Robie, an Auburn businessman, and some friends covered the rugged trail of the Sierra Mountains from Lake Tahoe to Auburn in a single day on horseback. Much of the trail is along narrow mountain trails through rugged wilderness, with narrow switchbacks, edged by thousand-foot drops, climbing 50-degree inclines and crossing bridges. Safety is first to both the horse and rider, with many vets along the trail to check the condition and hydration of the horse...

Read more here:
No comments:

USEF's High School Equestrian Athlete Program

USEF.org

High School endurance riders who are USEF members are eligible for USEF's High School Equestrian Athlete Program.

Questions? Email Terra Schroeder.

You don’t have to be a record-setting quarterback, point guard or track star to letter in high school sports anymore. The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is writing a new chapter in the recognition of high school sports — one that honors Equestrian athletes. The USEF’s High School Equestrian Athlete program will offer specially designed emblems and pins, exclusively for equestrian athletes in grades 9-12.

"High school equestrians have earned their place among the most dedicated athletes," shared John Long, USEF Chief Executive Officer. "Not only are they putting in long hours to train for and compete in the sport they love — they do so while taking the concept of teamwork to the highest level, forming a partnership with a horse to achieve their goals.

"Until now, most high school students haven’t had the opportunity to letter in equestrian, simply because there are so few school-sponsored programs," Long continued. "We look forward to the beginning of a new tradition, where equestrians are able to earn the recognition they deserve, alongside their fellow athletes and classmates."

The new High School Equestrian Athlete program is open to equestrian athletes in all breeds or disciplines who are enrolled in grades 9-12, and are currently USEF members, or become USEF members. The program will run June 1–May 31 of each year, and will honor those who document their training and competition involvement by awarding emblems and pins. These are designed to be worn on existing high school letterman’s jackets, or any jacket of the athlete’s choosing, as a symbol of achievement.

Please complete the USEF High School Athlete Application. You will be required to sign in to your USEF online account in order to access the application. If you do not have a My USEF My Way My Account please click the application link above and then follow the instructions on how to sign up for an individual membership account. Click here for a printable version of the application.

Equestrian event planned to raise funds for rider injured by motorcyclist

Monroemonitor.com - Full Article

By Chris Hendrickson, Monitor

All Bonnie Davis wanted to do was spend some time horseback riding with her friend, Jackie Hunt. Now she’s spending her time planning a fundraiser to help pay for her friend’s hospital bills.

The fundraising event called “Ride for Jackie” will take place on Sunday, Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sky River Equestrian Center located in Sultan. The event will include an obstacle course, hot lunch, silent auction and raffle. Hunt, who fell from her horse in September after an encounter with two motorcycle riders, suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of the fall. All proceeds from the benefit will go towards Hunt’s medical bills which include the cost of the aid car, two trips to the emergency room, and her follow-up medical care.

“She’s discovering, every day, things that are challenges that weren’t before,” said Davis.

On Sunday Sept. 8, Davis, who lives in Monroe, was riding through the Mann Road trails in Sultan with her friend, Hunt. They were just getting ready to call it a day when they encountered two motorcycle riders.

The encounter, while unexpected, did not immediately cause alarm to either Davis or Hunt. They occasionally encounter motorized vehicles on the local trail systems, and normally have no issues at all with the local off-road vehicle community.

“This was an isolated incident,” said Davis. “It’s outraged the motorcycle community, as well.”

The confrontation was unexpected because the Mann Road trails are located on 50,000 acres of privately managed timberland on which motor vehicles are prohibited. The management firm has granted conservation access which allows horseback riding, dog walking, backpacking, walking, bicyclists and legal hunting.

Unfortunately, the motorcycle riders, in addition to being on the trails illegally, seemed, to Davis, to purposely act in a hostile manner. One of the riders, rather than following standard trail etiquette, chose to engage his motorcycle in a loud and threatening manner...

Read more here:
http://www.monroemonitor.com/2013/10/08/equestrian-event-planned-to-raise-funds-for-rider-injured-by-motorcyclist/

Protestors march to protest federal shutdown at Valley Forge National Historical Park

Mainlinenedianews.com - Full Article

By Brendan Wills,
Bwills@21st-centurymedia.com
October 13 2013

UPPER MERION — Veterans, citizens, Democrats and Republicans all came together Sunday to protest the government shutdown at Valley Forge National Historical Park. Close to 1,000 protestors rallied outside of the Washington Memorial Chapel before marching on the closed trails.

Protestors disobeyed instructions posted throughout the federal park, warning visitors that facilities were closed to the public. Cars were parked on the grassy shoulders of Valley Forge Road, in nearby commercial parking lots or in the park’s caution-taped lots at the risk of a fine. Carpools were organized on the protest’s Facebook page.

The protest, organized by grassroots organization Citizens for Liberty, consisted of a rally followed by a march along Valley Forge Road from the chapel to the park’s visitor center. Citizens for Liberty was joined by the motorcycle organization Pennsylvania Sons of Liberty Riders, various other organizations and veterans. Protestors rode horses and carried American flags for the march...

Read more here:
http://www.mainlinemedianews.com/articles/2013/10/13/main_line_times/news/doc525b555b19161896148219.txt

Endurance Riders Participate in Peaceful Act of Civil Disobedience

October 14 2013

On October 13, 2013, endurance riders Amy Carlson-Cieri, Skip Kemerer, Pat Jones Oliva, Shelley Hylton Rahe, Sam Wilcox, and Sarah Wood, participated in a peaceful act of civil disobedience.

The Veterans March on Valley Forge National Park was organized to protest the closure of our National Parks due to the government shutdown. The march included veterans, people in wheelchairs, individuals walking barefoot to honor the soldiers who had died in Valley Forge and numerous everyday Americans who are nonpartisan and just fed up with useless government infringement upon our rights.

The horses led the march from the historic Valley Forge Chapel, one mile to the visitor’s center. The Sons of Liberty Motor Cycle Riders rode slowly next to the horses on the street, while the horses led the people along Valley Forge's grassy path.

When the entrance came into sight, the Sons of Liberty rode ahead and piled the temporary barriers off to the side so the horses could walk right in. Skip Kemerer and Pat Oliva, followed by the other riders and Patriots approached the locked gate to the park access road.

A park ranger stood in between them. Skip and Pat quietly walked to either side of the locked gate and entered the park with no opposition from the ranger. The Patriots cheered and someone shouted, "Valley Forge Park is now OPEN!" People started streaming into the park from all sides! We filed down to the Visitors center and the organizers raised the American flag on the center pole and a Gadsden flag on another. The rally was peaceful and the message clear!

Amy Carlson-Cieri

Photos from Chris Stevenson's post in Veterans March on Valley Forge National Park:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201436080962987&set=gm.529861513775307&type=1

How Will the Government Shutdown Affect Equine Interests?

Thehorse.com - Full Article

By Diane E. Rice
Oct 01, 2013

As of midnight on Oct. 1 all employees deemed nonessential by the federal government were furloughed without pay. In fact, Congress has failed to pass any of the annual appropriation bills that fund government agencies and projects for the fiscal year that runs today through Sept. 30, 2014. What does this mean for your horse-industry activities?

Recreation
The National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management have closed and secured park, refuge, and visitor facilities on public lands. National Forest recreation sites, which are manned by government employees, are also closed...

Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32642/how-will-the-government-shutdown-affect-equine-interests?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=welfare-industry&utm_campaign=10-03-2013

AERC Juniors: Anne Ayala Junior Scholarship

AERC.org

ANNE AYALA JUNIOR SCHOLARSHIP: Juniors and young riders through age 21 are invited to apply for the 2014 junior scholarship. Applications are due by 1/8/14. Information/application is available here.

Shutdown kicks family, horses out of national park

Myfoxmemphis.com - Full Article & Video

Posted: Oct 08, 2013 8:48 PM MDT
By Kristin Tallent

HERNANDO, Miss. (FOX13) -

As the federal government shut down hits its second week, a weekend of fun turned into panic for Anne Liddell and her horses.

The Alabama Yellowhammer Pioneer Endurance Ride is a popular event for horse enthusiasts that takes place each year at the Talladega National Forest.

This year, the event was shortened because of the government shutdown, and riders and their horses were kicked out of the park late in the evening, potentially putting them in danger.

To Liddell, horses are family. She's been riding since she was a child, but she's never experienced anything like she did last weekend at the endurance ride.

"Around about 8 o'clock on Friday evening, we were told there were law enforcement people on their way and we needed to pack up and leave," she said.

Read more here:
http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/story/23642348/shutdown-kicks-family-horses-out-of-national-park

Video:

Federal government shutdown effects on outdoor recreation

Idaho Department of Fish and Game advises Idaho hunters, anglers, trappers, and wildlife watchers of the following information about federal land closures related to the federal government shutdown. Idaho Fish and Game is not authorized to enforce these federal closures. Idaho Fish and Game does not have information beyond that provided by federal press releases and through the www.usa.gov website.

Fish and Wildlife Service: National Wildlife Refuge lands and facilities are closed to public access as are federal hatcheries.

Bureau of Land Management: Non-developed BLM lands with no controlled access will remain open. Campgrounds, boat ramps, visitor centers and other developed recreation sites will be closed or posted as closed in areas where public access cannot practically be restricted. BLM is giving campground occupants 48 hours to vacate, with the area shut down as the last visitor leaves.

U.S. Forest Service: Non-developed lands without controlled access will remain open. Developed facilities are closed. Fire suppression, law enforcement and other activities essential to protect life and property will continue.

National Park Service: All national parks and NPS-managed lands are closed, with all park entrances closed and secured. While the national parks are closed, roads that serve as thruways will remain open. The Park Service is giving campground and lodging occupants 48 hours to vacate the premises.

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation: Recreation areas located on Reclamation land and water bodies may be directly managed by Reclamation, by another Federal agency, or by a non-Federal managing partner. Recreation areas managed directly by Reclamation, and which are funded through appropriations, will be closed and may include areas at American Falls, Black Canyon Reservoir, Little Wood Reservoir and Warm Springs Reservoir. Those which are not funded by appropriations will remain open. Decisions on whether areas managed by another Federal partner will remain open will be made by each Federal managing partner. Those recreation areas managed by a non-Federal partner will remain open at the discretion of the partner. To determine the status of any Bureau of Reclamation recreation area, please contact the local recreation area.

Rider/horse team saddle up again in search of 3rd Man vs. Horse Race win this Saturday

DCourier.com - Full Article

By Heidi Dahms Foster
Special to the Courier
10/4/2013

Phoenix endurance rider Kim Abbott loves the annual Man Against Horse Race in Dewey. She should - she has won it twice and placed in the top 10 several times. This Saturday, she'll be looking to wrest a third win from runners and horse/rider teams in the 50-mile race over Mingus Mountain and back.

The Man Against Horse Race, in its 30th year, and the Whiskey Row Marathon are the two longest running races in Arizona. The late runner and former Yavapai County Supervisor Gheral Brownlow started both.

Abbott won the race in 2000, which also was her first endurance ride victory, on her Arabian horse Zionastar. In 2008, eight years to the day, she won again, on Sea Spot Run...

Read more here:
http://www.dcourier.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=2&ArticleID=123926

Ride for the Cure supports patients

Thespectrum.com - Full Article

Written by Cathy Wentz
October 5 2013

CEDAR CITY — The second annual Quichipa Lake Ride for the Cure brought endurance horseback riders from throughout the West to Iron County to ride 25 or 50 miles Friday and Saturday, with the proceeds from registration fees going to the Sandra L. Maxwell Cancer Center.

Ride Manager Gwen Farmer, who has gone through cancer treatment herself, said she was able to give the center a check for $1,000 last year and hopes to be able to give a similar amount this year. She said 15 riders, both 25- and 50-milers, participated in this year’s ride, with some of them riding both days.

The 50-mile riders began their trek at Farmer’s ranch near Quichipa Lake. They traveled west across Highway 56, and came around the back side of Three Peaks recreational area to stop for lunch at the equestrian staging area there...

Read more here:
http://www.thespectrum.com/article/20131005/NEWS01/310050013?nclick_check=1

100 Mile Horses Earn Recognition

aerc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Date: October 3, 2013
 
One hundred miles. In one day. It’s the ultimate goal for aspiring distance riders and this month, the American Endurance Ride Conference honors 55 equine that recently finished their first 100-mile ride. An additional 22 equines completed their third 100-mile ride.
 
“Many distance riders start out at the 25-mile events, but many dream of finishing a 100 as part of their long-term goals,” said AERC Executive Director Kathleen Henkel. “And once they find an equine that can go the distance, that second and third 100 seem more doable.”

Earning the highest honor was TR Notablymishaah, owned and ridden by Debbie Schultz of Harleysville, PA, a 12-year-old Arabian gelding who has completed 20 100-mile rides.

With 15 100-mile rides were Hot Desert Knight, a 13-year-old Arabian owned and ridden by Farzad Faryadi of Oakboro, NC, and Fourmiles Kuna, an 18-year-old Arabian/Appaloosa gelding owned and ridden by 19-year-old Meghan Delp of Westminster, Maryland.

Three other equines made the gold level with 10 100s: Jumpin’ Jax, owned by Ruth Anne Everett of North Carolina, Theatric, owned by Tom Hutchinson of Maine and Tiki Chaps Ku, owned by Gabrielle Mann of Northern California. Two other Northern Californians had horses reaching the silver level, with seven 100s: Nicole Chappell’s Golden Knight and Robert Ribley’s Sacajawea.

The American Endurance Ride Conference welcomes riders in all distances, from introductory rides of 10 miles to 100s and multiday rides, where riders travel at least 50 miles a day over three or more days. The organization’s 2014 ride season begins December 1, 2013.

For more information about endurance riding, or to request a free information packet, please contact the AERC office, located in Auburn, California, at 866-271-2372, email aerc@foothill.net, or visit www.aerc.org

Jacobsen to run Twin Cities Marathon

Postbulletin.com - Full Article

September 30 2013

Paul Christian, pchristian@postbulletin.com

Van Jacobsen has completed several endurance races before, from a distance ranging from 50 to 100 miles.

But all of them have come while riding on a horse. He is endorsed by the American Endurance Ride Conference, which sponsors these types of races.

Sunday he will attempt another endurance test, but this time with no horse; it will be on foot. The 58-year-old Jacobsen will be at the starting line for the 34th annual Twin Cities Marathon, which is his first running venture at 26.2 miles.

"If you had told me a few years ago that I would be running a marathon, I would have said absolutely not," he said. "But here I am...'"

Read more here:
http://www.postbulletin.com/sports/localsports/jacobsen-to-run-twin-cities-marathon/article_be2a9673-e64a-55d0-84de-fc2131d5fcdc.html

HCC Zara RR and Ann Hall win Best Condition at Virginia City 100

Ann Hall of Auburn, California, took home her 7th buckle (in 8 attempts), and her mount HCC Zara RR completed her 2nd Top Ten finish (in as many starts), and received the Best Condition award at the 46th annual Virginia City 100 on September 21, 2013, in Virginia City, Nevada.

The Virginia City 100 was a competitive ride this year, with winners Nicole Chappell riding Golden Knight, and Diane Stevens riding Banderaz LC tying for first place, finishing 20 minutes ahead of a crowd of horses: the next 6 finishers were within 6 minutes of each other. "Zara" was one of those, in 5th place.

"We came into the last vet check, the Cottonwoods, with 4 other riders," Ann said. "Zara recovered immediately and had a strong finish; she covered the last 9 miles in 45 minutes. At this point, she is getting stronger and consistently has a big push the last 10 miles of the ride."

The desert endurance riders experienced every kind of weather during the ride, except for summer. "The early morning ride was beautiful with a spirited breeze and a bright moon making the traverse through the dark 7-mile canyon lovely," Ann recalled. "By the mid afternoon we had strong winds, then strong rain, and by the time riders were climbing Mount Davidson they were riding in snow. Once the weather front had spent itself, the skies cleared and riders had a brisk clear night ride."

The Hyannis Cattle Company-bred 12-year-old mare HCC Zara RR now has 1935 miles in her 5-year endurance career, with 30 completions in 31 starts, 7 hundred mile completions in 7 starts, and 4 Best Condition awards.

For a previous story on Ann Hall and HCC Zara RR, see http://merritravels.endurance.net/2011/02/ann-hall-and-hcc-zara-rr-catch-me-if.html

36 of 49 riders finished this year's VC 100, 19 of them for the first time. 3 Juniors started and finished. Connie Creech received her 22nd VC 100 buckle, and Nicole Chappell received her 21st buckle. Horse and rider team Gina Hall and Fire Mt. Destiny for the 9th time.

For the complete order of finish and a couple of stories on the ride see
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2013VirginiaCity100/

World equestrian championship within reach for Chestnuthill Township woman

Poconorecord.com - Full Article

By Chris Reber
Pocono Record Writer
September 28, 2013

A Chestnuthill Township woman has set out a training program to reach the highest level of endurance horse riding. And based on her recent results, that plan is working.

Holly Corcoran, of Effort, has been training endurance horses since 2009, while balancing her day job as a CPA in Stroudsburg. She trains Arabian horses at her farm in Chestnuthill Township, with the goal of participating in the pinnacle of the sport, the World Equestrian Games.

In her outing in Stormont, Ontario, Canada, last month, Corcoran and her horses took first in the 50-mile and second in the 75-mile races.

This December, she will know for sure whether her 7-year-old horse will qualify for the World Equestrian Games 2014, scheduled for Normandy, France, in August.

"I can potentially make it to France next spring," she said...

Read more here:
http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130928/NEWS/309280337

2013 Virginia City 100 Results

NASTR.org

September 21 2013

Results of the 46th Virginia City 100:

1 / LW / Nicole Chappell & Golden Knight / 13:58
1 / FW / Diane Stevens & Banderaz LC / 13:58
3 / LW / Sharon Schmidt & Ravenwood Teyyal / 14:19
4 / FW / Shannon Constanti & HA Summer Flame / 14:19
5 / LW / Ann Hall & HCC Zara RR / 14:20
6 / MW / Andrew Gerhard & TSH Fools Gold / 14:20
7 / FW / Kassandra Tucker & TS Diamond Chip / 14:24
8 / MW / Zach Rabow & RTR Rimfire / 14:24
9 / FW / Ann Marie Barnett & Mata Bey / 15:25
10 / LW / Terryl Reed & TR Olena / 15:25
11 / LW / Kirsten VanPoollen & Not A Chance / 16:16
12 / FW / Cathy Lefeber & Magnum’s Red Baron / 16:16
13 / LW / Jeremy Procopio & California Girl / 16:20
14 / FW / Erin Clutter & Falcon Bey DL / 16:24
15 / HW / Shawn Bowling & Rushcreek Spur / 16:24
16 / MW / Gina Hall & Fire Mt. Destiny / 17:06
17 / JR / Morgan Bowman & Valleydateit / 17:15
18 / HW / Jonathan Bowman & Montebello / 17:15
19 / JR / Jack Petty & Zoie Knightstar Nar / 18:28
20 / FW / Pat Chappell & Dusty Starshine Zarif / 18:28
21 / FW / Louise Smith-Egstrom & Genuine Thunder / 18:28
22 / FW / Hannah Davis & Doucette KS / 18:32
23 / MW / Brandon Reed & Dancin Blaze / 18:33
24 / JR / Jordan Heald & Summer Heat / 19:06
25 / FW / Katelyn Valentine & Rushcreek Tootsie / 19:06
26 / LW / Hilary Haynie & Rushcreek Nel / 19:11
27 / MW / John Brain & George / 19:11
28 / HW / Robert Weldin & Chip O’Huck / 19:16
29 / FW / Tammy Karnow & Cynder / 19:16
30 / LW / Pam Anderson & Shezada Saheem / 19:49
31 / MW / Connie Creech & LS Shardonney Bey + / / 19:49
32 / LW / Carolyn Meier & Rushcreek Okay / 19:49
33 / LW / Renee Robinson & Almond Rocha / 20:08
34 / FW / Tami Rougeau & TRS Amatzing Grace / 20:08
35 / MW / Alisanne Steele & Sierras Sunrise / 20:12
36 / LW / Kaitlin Elliott & Kodaakhrom / 20:13


Triple Crown Results
Virginia City 100 - NASTR 75 - NV Derby 50 = NASTR Triple Crown

Shannon Constanti HR Summer Flame
Nicole Chappell - Golden Knight
Erin Clutter
Gina Hall
Louise Smith-Egstrom
Carolyn Meier
Connie Creech

Long-distance rider on a journey of discovery

TheLCN.com - Full Article

September 21, 2013 by Sally Fox

Have you ever wanted to just get on your pony and ride? Well some people take that sort of thing more seriously than others. Take, for example, a woman named Sea G. Rhydr who found herself at a turning point in her life and ready to head back home.

Sea was in California where she had gone for a couple years to help a friend struggling with cancer. Back home was way back East. In her early 40s, with no big plans or deadlines, her boss at a dude ranch in Mendocino County offered to sell her a 13-year-old paint gelding rescue case for $1, and she decided that the stars were aligned for her to realize a dream she had had for many years.

In the summer of 2011, she read a book by Mesannie Wilkins, “The Last of the Saddle Tramps” and it got her thinking in a whole new way. Wilkins was 63 years old in 1954, had no family, her farm was being repossessed, and she’d lived her whole life in Minot, Maine. Wilkins had nothing to lose so that fall she bought herself a grumpy summer camp horse named Tarzan for $5. On Nov. 8, 1954, Wilkins loaded all her gear on her horse, called her dog and — with $32 in her pocket — headed out for California. She met a bunch of wonderful people, saw some beautiful country, had a few hair-raising adventures, and two years later arrived on the West Coast...

Read more here:
http://thelcn.com/2013/09/21/journey-of-discovery/#sthash.gqyLvcdu.dpuf

Run or ride for horses at Asheville's Biltmore Estate

Blackmountainmews.com - Full Article

by Karen Chavez

ASHEVILLE — Diane Wilson was searching for the perfect way to celebrate her 50th year on the planet. As a runner, she wanted to run a race. But not just any race — it would have to be a 50-miler.

As the longtime director of the equestrian program at Asheville School, Wilson heard about a new race, taking place Saturday on the Biltmore Estate — the Hope for Horses Run for the Horses Endurance Race and Ultra Marathon.

The race consists of four races in one — a 30-mile (roughly a 50 kilometer in running lingo) endurance horseback ride or footrace, and a 50-mile (about an 80K) ride or run. It is a benefit for Hope for Horses, a nonprofit equine rescue, rehab and adoption nonprofit in Leicester.

Wilson didn’t have to think long about whether she would run or ride...

Read more here:
http://www.blackmountainnews.com/article/20130919/OUTDOORS/309190079/RUN-or-ride-FOR-THE-HORSES

Run or ride for horses at Asheville's Biltmore Estate

Blackmountainnews.com - Full Article

ASHEVILLE — Diane Wilson was searching for the perfect way to celebrate her 50th year on the planet. As a runner, she wanted to run a race. But not just any race — it would have to be a 50-miler.

As the longtime director of the equestrian program at Asheville School, Wilson heard about a new race, taking place Saturday on the Biltmore Estate — the Hope for Horses Run for the Horses Endurance Race and Ultra Marathon.

The race consists of four races in one — a 30-mile (roughly a 50 kilometer in running lingo) endurance horseback ride or footrace, and a 50-mile (about an 80K) ride or run. It is a benefit for Hope for Horses, a nonprofit equine rescue, rehab and adoption nonprofit in Leicester...

Read more here:
http://www.blackmountainnews.com/article/20130919/OUTDOORS/309190079/RUN-or-ride-FOR-THE-HORSES

Coverage of the AERC National Championship

The 2013 Vettec AERC National Championships will take place September 20 (50 miles) and 22 (100 miles) at City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo, Idaho. The first participants have arrived, and Ridecamp is starting to grow.

The rides will be updated as time allows via Twitter and on the official ride page:
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2013AERCNC/

Emmett youth earns a spot at Nationals

Messenger - Full Article

September 18 2013

What makes you smile? Riding a horse fast and far makes 17-year-old Flora Gertsch smile. That smile has become simply radiant upon qualifying for the 2013 American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) National Championships to be held Sept. 20 at City of Rocks, Almo, Idaho.

Gertsch will compete in the 50-mile ride, climbing in elevation from 5,400 to 8,500 feet. Qualifications were steep as well: 300 AERC miles for the horse, 300 AERC miles for the rider with 100 of those miles completed together. Gertsch and her horse, Belesema Finalia have Kim Johnson, owner of Belesemo Arabians in Caldwell to thank for superbly matching up this dynamic duo...

Read more here:
http://www.messenger-index.com/news/emmett-youth-earns-a-spot-at-nationals/article_cff862f8-1fdc-11e3-91e7-0019bb2963f4.html

2013 AERC National Championship Pre-Entries

September 14 2013

Pre-Entries for the 2013 Vettec AERC National Championships are posted.

The 50 mile ride on September 20 currently has 56 horses and riders entered. The 100 mile ride on September 22 has 44 entries. More are expected - check back soon!

To follow tweets from the ride, and to see photos and news as the ride develops, see:
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2013AERCNC/

AERC Election Time

September 14 2013

Several regional directors are stepping down after this year. Is it time for YOU to step up?! Let the office staff know of your interest (for yourself or someone else) and arrange to pay the $5 nomination fee by September 30, 2013. 

http://aerc.org/

Endurance clinic, trail ride to benefit Horseshoe Bend park Sept. 27-28

NJ.com - Full Article

By Lillian Shupe/Hunterdon County Democrat
on September 12, 2013 at 9:31 AM

A “Distance Riding 101 Clinic” will be held at Horseshoe Bend Park in Kingwood Township, Sept. 27 and 28.

This clinic will be geared toward introducing riders to the sport of endurance riding through a hands-on approach. Friday will include interactive workshops and Saturday will include a 5-mile or 10-mile guided ride.

Patti Stedman and Sandy Terp will be presenting the workshops and Meg Sleeper will be doing the AERC veterinary examinations. Topics will include an in-depth look at how to prepare the horse and rider team, how the competitions work and how to have not only success — but fun...

Read more here:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2013/09/horseshoe_bend_trail_ride_sept.html

AERC National Championship Vendors

September 12 2013

The vendors American Trail Gear, Hooves N Whiskers, and MTPerformance Equine Sports Massage will be at the AERC National Championships in Almo, Idaho September 20-22, 2013.

Diana and Bud Seager of American Trail Gear say, "If you can dream it, we can make it!" Their specialty is Biothane and Beta tack. They also carry, among many other things, rider gear, horse gear and horse care products.


Elicia Kamberg's Hooves N Whiskers started from the American dream of running her own business. You'll recognize the distinctive bright colors of her fleece coolers and rump rugs. She also carries Easyboots, people products, and horse treats.

Trina Lenmark of MTPerformance Equine Sports Massage provides massage for your horse. She was certified through EquiTouch in Colorado, and incorporates the Masterson Method techniques into her massage. Contact Trina at trinweitz@hotmail.com

Tuesday AM: 2nd Edition of Endurance Talk on Horses In The Morning

Horsesinthemorning.com

Monday September 9 2013

Tune in tomorrow morning (Tuesday) for the next live edition of Endurance Talk on Horses in the Morning. Listen to some of our crazy endurance riding adventures plus learn about NATRC from PhotoBy Jonni and learn a bit about feeding and vetting endurance horses from rider and veterinarian Dr. Susan Garlinghouse. The show is live from 6 to 7:30 a.m. EST. A recorded version will be available online a couple of hours later. There are iPhone and Android apps that you can get to listen on your phone.

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/

Montana Confirms Equine WNV Cases

Thehorse.com - Full Article

By Edited Press Release
Sep 03, 2013

The Montana Department of Livestock is reminding equid owners statewide to be on the lookout for West Nile virus (WNV) after numerous cases were confirmed in horses recently.

“We’ve had nine positive cases confirmed in the past five days, so the threat is definitely there,” said State Veterinarian Marty Zaluski, DVM.

Zaluski said equid owners should be familiar with clinical signs of the disease, which can be difficult to distinguish from other serious neurologic diseases like sleeping sickness and rabies. Some of those signs include:

Loss of appetite and depression;
Fever;
Incoordination (ataxia) or weakness of the hind limbs;
Muscle or muzzle twitching;
Convulsions; and
Inability to swallow.

Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32486/montana-confirms-equine-wnv-cases?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=equinomics&utm_campaign=09-08-2013

Unbranded: The Last Stretch

Westernhorseman Blog - Full Story

Nearing the finish: Four men, 13 Mustangs and more than 3,000 miles.

We just got finished with the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, a 2.5-million-acre roadless area south of Glacier National Park. Two big fires, the Damnation and Red Shale, threw a wrench into our plans and forced us into a huge reroute to steer clear of the spreading forest fires. Our original route took us through remote but easy trails through the center of the “Bob.” The reroute forced us east into the Sawtooth Range, well named for its lack of plateaus, ridges and large drainages. The Sawtooths aren’t that tall but they make up for height in huge elevation changes, massive rock faces and a lack of grazing meadows. The views are stunning, but the going was slow and it often took twenty miles of trail travel to traverse 5 miles of straight line travel. Our horses, as well as we, had Canada on our mind and it was agonizing to accomplish so little distance with so much effort.

We’re currently five days and about 100 miles from the Canadian Border. Excited is an understatement! All that remains of our journey are seven 9,000-foot passes, 100 miles of cliff face switchbacks exposed to the forecasted afternoon thunderstorms, and possibly the most incredible scenery in the Lower 48, Glacier National Park. The Canadian Border has been a vague dream of ours for the past six months and as we get closer reality has begun to set in that the adventure will be drawing to a close. It’s a bittersweet feeling, I’m ready to get to that border, but it’ll be a hard transition from such a carefree way of living...

Read more here:
http://blogs.westernhorseman.com/unbranded/2013/09/03/unbranded-the-last-stretch/

Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program to Honor High Mileage Endurance & LD Thoroughbreds

AERC.org

The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) will honor the High Mileage Endurance Thoroughbred and High Mileage Limited Distance Thoroughbred. Honorees will receive a Ribbon and T.I.P. logo bag. The Thoroughbred horse must be registered with The Jockey Club or a foreign Thoroughbred stud book recognized by The Jockey Club and all horses should have a T.I.P. Number to assist with proof of eligibility. Thoroughbreds competing in AERC are also eligible for The Jockey Club's Performance Awards. Check out the Membership Recognition/Breed Association Awards page on the website for links: http://www.aerc.org/Breed_Awards.aspx

Yacolt woman, horse complete 100-mile Tevis Cup Ride

Thereflector.com - Full Article

Posted: Wednesday, September 4, 2013 9:00 am
Joanna Michaud staff reporter

Although it was Heidi Larson’s first time participating in the 100-mile Tevis Cup Ride from Lake Tahoe to Auburn, CA, the 49-year-old Yacolt resident and her 17-year-old registered Arabian horse, Ash, placed 26th at the event out of 160 starters and 75 finishers.

“Most challenging was the Granite Chief Wilderness,” Larson said of the 100-mile trail. “It’s got some bogs, which I wasn’t worried about since we live in such a wet area, but you are riding at speed, probably 8 to 10 miles per hour, and in a row of horses, slightly downhill, and there are large, flat granite rocks in the trail, it’s very slick, very scary to trot over. My favorite part was probably going over Cougar Rock and crossing the American River in the dark with glow sticks floating in the water to light your way across.”

According to the Tevis Cup Ride website, www.teviscup.org, the Western States Trail Ride, widely called the Tevis Cup Ride, is the oldest modern-day endurance ride, having been held annually since 1955. The ride was first organized by Wendell Robie, an Auburn businessman and devoted rider of the Sierra high country...

Read more here:
http://www.thereflector.com/horse_corral/article_53b281d8-11c7-11e3-8274-001a4bcf887a.html

2013 Vettec AERC National Championship 100-Mile Trail Preview

3 September 2013

Wondering what the 100-mile trail for the 2013 Vettec AERC National Championship looks like? Below is a video preview of what you'll be riding over on September 22.

The first 48 miles retraces the 50-mile course of the Day 5 City of Rocks Pioneer Trails Endurance ride held on August 10. That 50-mile 'test ride' winning time was completed in 5:25. The 100-mile trail continues on to Castle Rocks State Park for a vet check, returns through City of Rocks National Reserve back to basecamp for another vet check, then loops through the National Reserve once more for the final loop, with the finish back in basecamp.

On the first half of the ride, horses begin at 5318' at base camp outside the National Reserve, and climb to 8513', with a total elevation gain/loss of approximately 6500'. The highest point on the final 50 miles is 7000'.

100-mile video:


(or link)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUE8RVEFYu8

For more information, trail maps, and other videos, see
http://www.endurance.net/AERCNC2013/trails.html

W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center Open House in October

Horsereporter.com - Full Article

August 29, 2013
By Pamela@horsereporter

August 29, 2013, Pomona, California ~ A week of festivities in early October will mark the 75th anniversary of the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Founder of the Kellogg company, Will Keith Kellogg, known as W.K. (April 7, 1860-October 6, 1951), became known for his cereals. A vegetarian, his strict dietary principles led him to the processing of grains into flaked cereal. He and his brother marketed this cereal under the name, Battle Creek Toasted Corn Flake Company, which later became The Kellogg Company...

Read more here:
http://www.horsereporter.com/?p=7783

Famous Swinging Bridge on Tevis Trail Damaged by Wildfire

August 31 2013

Hampered by heavy-fueled forests, high winds, and low humidity for several weeks, the American fire near Foresthill, California, which started on August 10, 2013 in the American River Ranger District of the Tahoe National Forest, (cause under investigation), was declared 100% contained on August 29th, but not before damaging both the Swinging Bridge and a smaller footbridge on the Tevis Cup/Western States trail.

As soon as safety permits, qualified personnel will inspect the bridges to determine their foundational integrity and identify repairs needed before the public can safely use these structures.

A video of the American Fire can be seen here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VJEUJKdMq0&list=UUZyo46STYVjk8AnGnv0blDA

A detailed summary of the fire can be seen here:
http://yubanet.com/nevada/American.php


With the Labor Day Holiday weekend upon us, Forest visitors are urged to comply with area and road closures. These closures are in place to protect visitors and fire fighters. The closed roads and areas are unsafe due to several factors including: fire-weakened, burned trees that pose a risk of falling; burning holes in the ground from tree roots and stumps; and heavy smoke making visibility extremely poor. These areas and roads will continue to be re-evaluated and will be re-opened as soon as possible.

Donations toward the Tevis trail and bridge rebuilding efforts can be made here:
http://www.teviscup.org/how-to-help/how-to-support-the-western-states-trail

"My Favorite Trail" - AERC Essay Contest

AERC.org
 
American Endurance Ride Conference announces “My Favorite Trail” essay contest

Every equestrian has a favorite trail. Just thinking about riding there brings you a feeling of peace, of being close to nature and closer to your equine friend.

In celebration of trails, the nation’s leading sport in encouraging the use, protection and development of equestrian trails – the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) – is announcing a “My Favorite Trail” essay contest.
The top three entries will be awarded gift certificates from contest sponsor Riding Warehouse, www.ridingwarehouse.com, with $250 in gift certificates going to the first place entry, $150 for second and $100 for third. The top prize winner will also receive a free one-year membership to the American Endurance Ride Conference, the nonprofit distance riding organization.

In 500 words or less, simply describe a favorite trail or trail system where you love to ride. Have you had an incredible wildlife encounter, an “ah-ha” moment with your horse when you conquered a particular challenge or just love the beautiful scenery?

Send your entry by November 30, 2013, to endurancenews@foothill.net or by mail to AERC, Attn: Trail Contest, PO Box 6027, Auburn, CA 95604. You are welcome to include one photo if you wish. Please include your name and contact information.

AERC’s Trails and Land Management Committee members will choose the top three winners, based on the most heartfelt write-ups. Those essays, and runner-up essays, will be published by AERC in the monthly Endurance News magazine or the quarterly online newsletter, AERC Extra.

With rides ranging from 25 to 100 miles in a day, endurance riders are lucky enough to experience trails in all their glory as they train and compete. They would love to welcome new riders and their horses into the sport to share joy of riding trails, both new and historic. To find out more about the sport of endurance riding, visit www.aerc.org.

Part of AERC’s mission is to fund trail projects that not only make trail improvements for endurance rides, but for all who use the trail systems. Each year thousands of dollars contributed by endurance riders are given to trail grant applicants. The organization also hosts Trail Master classes to teach sustainable trail building, maintenance and repair skills to trail workers around the country.

The contest is open to all. The winner will be announced in mid-December, 2013. Complete rules are available at www.aerc.org/TrailsContestRules_2013.pdf.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Date: August 2013
Contact: Troy Smith
American Endurance Ride Conference
www.aerc.org
endurancenews@foothill.net
866-271-2372, 530-823-2260
Photos available by request

2013 Vettec AERC National Championship 50-mile Trail is a Sensation

August 28 2013

The 50-mile course, and the first 50 miles of the 100-mile course, for the 2013 Vettec AERC National Championships that will be held on September 20 and 22 near Almo, Idaho, is a hit.

Day 5 of the City of Rocks Pioneer Trails Endurance ride held on August 6-10 was a test ride for the National Championships.

"It's absolutely beautiful!" exclaimed Heidi Skerratt, riding Gold N Beaudayshus at 8500', the highest elevation on the trail. "I could ride this trail every day and not get tired of it!"

Many riders echoed that sentiment at the splendid scenery that followed them with every foot in elevation gain throughout the ride.

It will be a challenging 50 mile trail: horses begin at 5318' at base camp outside the spectacularly scenic, geologic, and historic City of Rocks National Reserve, and climb to 8513', with a total elevation gain/loss of approximately 6500'. Trails will take riders over the historic California Trail, the Salt Lake Cutoff Trail, and Boise-Kelton Stage Routes, through the National Reserve and up into the Albion mountains in the Sawtooth National Forest. 38 of 42 riders completed this 50-mile trail, with the winning time 5:25.

For more information and to sign up, see:
http://www.endurance.net/AERCNC2013/.

For a preview of the trails on the 50-mile ride, and the first half of the 100-mile ride, see the new video:



or link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_mPouLeZb0

Waco endurance riders vanquish 24-hour marathon

Wacotrib.com - Full Article

August 25, 2013
By BRICE CHERRY bcherry@wacotrib.com

When Ragan Kelly returns to school at Vanguard this week, she could show off a pretty nifty belt buckle if she wished. It’s not one that the 12-year-old picked up at the Gap or Cavender’s, either. She earned it.

She’s got the callouses and sore muscles to prove it.

The buckle carries the message “100 Miles, One Day,” and it’s emblazoned with a picture of a pony express rider. To receive it, one must finish the Tevis Cup, which has been called the nation’s most grueling equine endurance ride.

Back in late July, Ragan and her mother Tracy, a Waco veterinarian, accomplished just that. They had to endure scorching temperatures, rugged terrain and even rattlesnakes along a 100-mile ride through the Sierra Nevada mountain range from Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe, Nev., to Auburn, Calif.

And to get credit for the finish, they had to do it all in a single day. Come in over 24 hours, and it doesn’t count.

“This race is the pinnacle of our sport,” Tracy Kelly said. “It’s like Wimbledon for a tennis player...”

Read more here:
http://www.wacotrib.com/sports/riders-vanquish--hour-marathon/article_49737cbf-f1d9-5fa4-b73e-7b77156fbb9a.html

Sleeper reconnoiters for USA at world championships test event

Leonard Liesens Photo
NJ.com - Full Article

By Nancy Jaffer/For The Star-Ledger
on August 25, 2013

Competition is a prime focus for endurance rider Meg Sleeper, but she didn't go to France last week to win; she went to scout.
The Frenchtown resident was aboard a borrowed horse, Tikis Twistyr, for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games' test event, run against the scenic background of rugged Mont Saint-Michel, verdant fields and broad beaches in Normandy. She was among 58 riders from 35 countries who toured the 129.3-kilometer course.

Unfortunately, her mount was "sort of a longshot" and wasn't at optimum fitness. She got pulled at the end of the ride (the condition of the horses is checked periodically along the route and after the finish). A ribbon wasn't the mission,though. Sleeper, a veteran of five world championships who is a candidate for the U.S. WEG team, was there to scope out the conditions.

A veterinary cardiologist at the University of Pennsylvania, Sleeper's assignment now is to write a report about what she encountered on the ride. It will be used to help prepare the U.S. squad that competes next August when everyone is going for the medals...

Read more here:
http://www.nj.com/sports/njsports/index.ssf/2013/08/post_82.html

Two AERC Trail Grants Approved at Mid-year Meeting

August 24 2013

AERC has more to offer than just competitions. The trail grant program is one that all trail users profit from and yet we hear very little about them.

Two grants were approved at the midyear meeting.

 One was a grant for $3,870, which will be used in Horseshoe Bend Park in Frenchtown, New Jersey. The funds (which also have matching funding) will be used to lay down geo textile fabric and gravel in low lying areas and for trail marking. This trail will connect two parks making for several miles of trail when completed. In the near future, maybe as early as 2014, the people in the area plan to host an endurance ride. There is an Endurance Clinic being hosted at the park by Meg Sleeper on September 28, 2013. The endurance riders in the area will be doing a lot of the work on this multi use trail system but all trail riders will be able to enjoy their effort and hard work.

The other trail grant that was approved was for $846.00 in the Capitol Forest near Olympia, Washington. The funds will be used for gravel and geo textile. This improvement will help in making the trails sustainable for the multi use system that the bare Bones Endurance Ride uses. Much of the work will be completed by the horse users in the area.

Let's get the word out that AERC currently has about $55,000 in the trail grant funds to help you with building sustainable trails or trail maintenance. AERC has spent a lot of  funds on campgrounds that host endurance rides.  

Connie Caudill

AERC mid-year Board Meeting

AERC.org

The AERC Board of Directors met on August 17 at their mid-year meeting. Two motions garnering a significant amount of attention and controversy were on the agenda.

The first motion provides for an option in recognizing personal mileage plateaus. This will allow members to purchase a jacket indicating AERC miles after attaining an initial plateau of 1,000 miles and at 1,000 mile increments thereafter. Mileage can be endurance miles, limited distance miles or, if riders elect to add their limited distance and endurance miles together, will be indicated as "AERC Miles". This motion does NOT combine mileage in any way except for the individual's preference for acknowledging a personal milestone on their jacket. This motion was passed by a significant majority.

The second motion changes rule L7, which addresses Best Condition judging in LD rides. The motion requires that Limited Distance rides have a BC award available; and that the same judging system used in the endurance division be used for judging LD Best Condition. The motion passed 16-4. While Board members believe that ride managers should have autonomy when managing their rides, the majority felt that since AERC offers a regional BC award, that in the interest of fairness and a level playing field, uniform BC judging should occur at all sanctioned rides.

Endurance rider has new steed

TheLCN.com - Full Article

Libby Llop, a local endurance rider, trains with her horse May Fly for a recent competition.

August 24, 2013 by Sally Fox

Local endurance rider Libby Llop had a great time at a 50-mile ride in Rhode Island on Aug. 11. It was only the second American Endurance Ride Conference sanctioned ride for her young mount May Fly who is 5 years old this year, the youngest that horses are allowed to compete at that distance.

May Fly is half sister to Llop’s mare Fly So Free, with which Llop has seen much success in recent years, logging more than 3,000 miles in competition. Both are out of an Arabian mare, I Juana Fly, that Llop acquired a few years back. This younger mare is an Hispano Arabe by Llop’s Andalusian stallion Dakota Galano. The 14-year-old stallion is owned by Beth Snyder who is showing in dressage with Lucretia Galbraith as her trainer/coach.

In the process of talking with Llop about her trip and this latest competition partner, I also learned a new word, as the 15.3 hand horse is a “rabicano,” although it turns out I have had a horse of this color. I just thought of it as a having a bit of roan-white ticking around its flanks and top of its tail, not knowing there was an actual name for it. (It’s always a good day when you learn something new. I’m curious how many of you knew about that color? Let me know!)

This was May Fly’s second sanctioned ride, the first being in southeastern Wyoming in July. Llop figures the horse has already logged more than 6,000 miles in a trailer, regularly making a 200-mile round trip to the farrier, among other travels...

Read more here:
http://thelcn.com/2013/08/24/endurance-rider-has-new-steed/#sthash.58EvJkga.dpbs

Distant horseback rides to be held locally Aug. 24-25 Wisconsin

The Distance Riding Association of Wisconsin will host a new horseback riding event Aug. 24-25 on the Dugan Run Horse Trails, about eight miles west of Stone Lake, off Highway 70.

Two types of distance rides, endurance and competitive trail rides, will be held. Endurance rides are horseback rides of 50 to 100 miles that are the equivalent of human marathon races. A 50-mile ride must be completed within 12 hours; a 75-mile ride must be completed in 18 hours; and a 100-mile ride must be completed in 24 hours. The winner is the first horse-rider team that crosses the finish line.

Limited distance rides, another type of endurance ride, are limited in distance to between 25 and 35 miles. The winner is the first horse-rider team that crosses the finish line first and whose horse’s heart rate falls to 60 beats per minute or less.

On Sunday, Aug. 25, there will be a 12-mile Novice Ride for riders just learning about the sport of distance riding.

For more information, contact Bill Suskey, ride manager, at (414) 301-2455 or bill@hellsbellsfarm.com, or T.J. Edwards at (715) 635-6789 or rabbit_sheriff@hotmail.com.


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