Canada: Endurance racer thrown from horse and airlifted to hospital

Infotel.ca

September 14, 2014 - 9:55 AM

WEST KELOWNA – A woman taking part in an endurance horse race in the Jackpine Lake west of West Kelowna had to be airlifted to hospital Saturday morning after she was thrown from her horse.

The woman, in her 40’s, suffered upper body injuries and was knocked unconscious. Her horse got spooked and tossed her into a tree, according to a media release from Central Okanagan Search and Rescue.

An emergency room nurse and other racers performed first aid until B.C. Ambulance paramedics and a search and rescue volunteer arrived.

A helicopter was called and the injured woman was airlifted to Kelowna General. There’s no word on her condition.

She was taking part in the 2014 Champion Equestrian Endurance Horse Race at the Telemark Cross Country Ski Club’s trails. The competitors ride courses up to 120 kilometres in length within a 24 hour period.

Horse, rider being put to endurance test in West Kelowna, Canada

Kelownadailycourier.ca - Full Article

September 14, 2014
JP Squire

This weekend is the B.C. equestrian endurance championships on the Telemark Cross-Country Ski Club’s trails in West Kelowna.
“Endurance is a long-distance competition against the clock, testing the speed and endurance of a horse, and challenging the rider who must safely manage the horse’s stamina and fitness,” explained championships co-manager Daphne Richard.

“Endurance involves a set course of up to 100 miles (160 kilometres) to be completed within a 24-hour period. Riders want to finish the course as quickly as possible with a sound, healthy horse. Welfare of the horse is paramount. There are multiple veterinary checks along each course at which horses receive a soundness exam to ensure that they are fit to continue..."

Read more here:
http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/opinion/columnists/article_230ac836-3af9-11e4-b1de-001a4bcf6878.html

Vesicular Stomatitis (VS) Update: 248 Colorado Quarantines Since Beginning of Outbreak

Colorado.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 4, 2014

Contacts:
Veterinarians and Livestock Owners: State Veterinarian’s Office, (303) 869-9130
Media: Christi Lightcap, (303) 869-9005, Christi.Lightcap@state.co.us


Vesicular Stomatitis (VS): 248 Colorado Quarantines Since Beginning of Outbreak

Guidelines for Livestock Shows, Fairs, Exhibitions, and Events

BROOMFIELD, Colo. – As of 9/4/2014, the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian’s Office has 208 locations under quarantine after horses and cows tested positive for Vesicular Stomatitis (VS); 40 of the 248 quarantines have now been released.

“The number of quarantined premises is actually going down in some counties as horses are healing and the quarantines are being released. We continue to see new cases so continue to ramp up your fly control. The State Veterinarian’s Office is following up on reports of horse owners who have moved their horses out of a quarantined facility. If requirements of the quarantine are not followed, the Department will investigate, write citations for violations, and institute fines according to the Livestock Health Act in State statute,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr.

If you plan to transport your horse to another state, be sure to check with the State Veterinarian's Office in the state of destination as to any special new restrictions for movement of your horse into their state. Some states have instituted new requirements for the import of Colorado horses due to the VS outbreak.

VS can be painful for animals and costly to their owners. The virus typically causes oral blisters and sores that can be painful causing difficulty in eating and drinking. In Colorado, there have been 344 horses and 7 cows that tested positive for VS.

County totals for premises under quarantine are:

· Adams – 10 (1 released)

· Boulder – 61 (10 released)

· Broomfield – 2

· Douglas – 1

· El Paso – 1

· Jefferson – 16

· Larimer – 65

· Morgan - 1

· Weld – 51 (29 released)

For more info, see:
http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&blobheadername1=Content-Disposition&blobheadername2=Content-Type&blobheadervalue1=inline%3B+filename%3D%229%2F4%2F2014+Vesicular+Stomatitis+%28VS%29%3A+248+Colorado+Quarantines+Since+Beginning+of+Outbreak.htm%22&blobheadervalue2=text%2Fhtml&blobkey=id&blobtable=MungoBlobs&blobwhere=1252030596985&ssbinary=true

Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning with Meg Sleeper & Jeremy Olson

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen!

September 9 2014

This month's Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning radio show with Karen Chaton and Glenn the Geek features WEG competitors Meg Sleeper and Jeremy Olson.

The show opens with a whole new way of looking at yogurt thanks to Karen being a little forgetful. Listen in:
http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-09-09-2014-endurance-day-two-weg-stories-meg-sleeper-and-jeremy-olsen/

AERC's Newest 4000 mile Horse!

Karenshorsetales Blog - Full Story

Thunder is living proof that some crooked legged colts can be more than pasture ornaments! He finished up the first day of the Old Selam 50 with a lifetime total of 4035 AERC miles!!

When Thunder was just a few months old he underwent surgery on his left front leg as it was so terribly crooked. He was born straight but by the time he was 6 weeks old the leg pointed west while he faced north. The veterinarians at Vale Vet Clinic calculated the angles and scraped the periosteum to straighten his leg, the same surgery used on the Kentucky Derby winner, Real Quiet. He was also given a large dose of selenium, copper and zinc as he was deficient and that is the main reason the leg went crooked. He then required special and frequent trimming, which I did. Every two weeks I'd go out and whittle on his front hooves to maintain the trim...

Read more here:
http://karenshorsetales.blogspot.com/2014/09/aercs-newest-4000-mile-horse.html

Endurance.net's Book of the Month: Suffering in Silence-Exploring the Painful Truth: The Saddle-Fit Link to Physical and Psychological Trauma in Horses

http://www.endurance.net/market/bookstore/

by Jochen Schleese (Sep 15, 2014)

Each year riders, trainers, and horse owners spend fortunes (literally) on veterinary attention, farrier work, pharmaceuticals, supplements, and physical therapies, all in an attempt to keep their horses healthy, sound, and performing their best. They invest time and money in finding their own boots, breeches, helmets, and chaps to ensure what they wear in the saddle is safe, comfortable, flattering, and right for the job at hand.

And yet still many balk at thoroughly understanding and examining the most basic and fundamental means of connection with the horse in most equestrian sports: the saddle.

Master saddler and saddle ergonomist Jochen Schleese says it is time to think intelligently about saddle choice and saddle fit for both horse and rider. In his new book, SUFFERING IN SILENCE: THE SADDLE-FIT LINK TO PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA IN HORSES, Schleese calls on all those involved in caring for and working with horses—riders, trainers, veterinarians, farriers, saddle fitters—to not only educate themselves in terms of the detrimental impact of poor saddle fit, but to also find a way to work cooperatively together toward a better and brighter future for the horse.

We must ask ourselves how much better could we ride and how much better could our horses perform if our saddles:
• Fit optimally?
• Accommodated each horse’s unique conformation and natural asymmetry?
• Were built for the differing anatomy of men and women?

The answers to all these questions and more are in Jochen Schleese’s book SUFFERING IN SILENCE.

Jochen Schleese has been working in the equestrian industry as a master saddler and saddle fitter for over 34 years and studied and built “gender-appropriate saddles” for over 20 of those. He completed both his journeyman’s and master’s certification at Passier and Sohn in Germany. In 1986 he was asked to come to Canada as the Official Saddler for the World Dressage Championships, held for the first time outside of Europe, and in 2005, 2007, and 2009 he held the same position for the World Cup Finals in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In 1990, Jochen developed a three-year certification program for the trade of saddlery together with the Ontario Ministry of Skills Development. He received a US Patent in 1996 for his innovative adjustable AdapTree® saddle tree, which is specifically made for the female anatomy, and he has been featured twice on Discovery Channel (How It’s Made and Harrowsmith Country Life). Jochen teaches his Saddlefit 4 Life® philosophy all over the world in conjunction with the German National Riding School, United States Dressage Federation, Ontario Equestrian Federation, Professional Trainers Verband in Germany, and at veterinary conferences in Brazil.

Vesicular Stomatitis (VS) Update: 184 Colorado Quarantines

Colorado.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 28, 2014

Contacts:
Veterinarians and Livestock Owners: State Veterinarian’s Office, (303) 869-9130
Media: Christi Lightcap, (303) 869-9005, Christi.Lightcap@state.co.us

Vesicular Stomatitis (VS): 222 Colorado Quarantines Since Beginning of Outbreak

Guidelines for Livestock Shows, Fairs, Exhibitions, and Events


BROOMFIELD, Colo. –As of 8/27/2014, the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian’s Office has 205 locations under quarantine after horses and cows tested positive for Vesicular Stomatitis (VS); 17 of the 222 total quarantines have now been released.

“The good news is that we have been able to release a number of quarantines and we expect that number to increase over the coming days and weeks. But, livestock owners must remain vigilant in their fly control. There is evidence that fly control as a prevention practice has been effective in disease prevention,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr.

VS can be painful for animals and costly to their owners. The virus typically causes oral blisters and sores that can be painful causing difficulty in eating and drinking. In Colorado, there have been 313 horses and 7 cows that tested positive for VS.

County totals are:

· Adams – 10 (1 released)

· Boulder – 67 (6 released)

· Broomfield – 2

· Douglas – 1

· El Paso – 1

· Jefferson – 10

· Larimer – 56

· Weld – 75 (10 released)

More...

Howell completes 100-mile horse ride

NKCCNews.com

By Community Member | August 25, 2014 11:50 pm

Mary Howell, a New Kent resident, completed a 100-mile endurance horse ride with her rescue horse Gryphon in a trail ride in Auburn, Ca.

Howell was among 190 riders who began the 24-hour journey at Lake Tahoe. After navigating through rocky and treacherous trail, she and Gryphon were among 109 riders to successful complete the annual event.

Howell has amassed more than 7,000 miles over the past 16 years as part of the American Endurance Riding Council (AERC) sanctions and competitions held nationwide. She received a legacy silver belt as a result of completing the Western States Trail Ride and continues to compete in the Old Dominion 100-mile ride that has been held in Northern Virginia since the mid-1970s.

Marion, Levy locals compete in France

Gainesville.com - Full Article

Marathon riders cover 100-mile endurance event

By Carlos E. Medina - Correspondent
Published: Monday, August 25, 2014 at 11:38 a.m.

One of the competitions at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France, is a 100-mile horse marathon known as endurance.

The Friday, Aug. 29, event features a contingent of Americans that all call either West Marion or East Levy county home for at least part of the year.

Some team members, including Jeremy and Heather Reynolds and Kelsey Russell, are full-time residents.

“The area has many races for us to qualify with. It has great weather, which allows us to train more than anywhere else in the country,” said Jeremy Reynolds, who along with his wife, Heather, live in Dunnellon...

Read more here:
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20140825/ARTICLES/140829737?Title=Marion-Levy-locals-compete-in-France-&tc=ar

2014 Tevis - Ride Director's Message

by Chuck Stalley

Dr. Fellers gets the credit for calling it when he said out loud at the preride meeting that "2014 was going to be a great Tevis ride year."  The temperature dipped 15 degrees from the highs we were experiencing for the previous 5 days. Thunder showers in Truckee fired off every night for 5 nights previous to ride day- -enough that they seriously hammered down the dust. All the work put into the trail to resurrect it from the American Fire gave us the best footing ever.  It was clear to me that twenty five or more riders entered in the ride were coming to take a shot at winning The Cup. We were truly going to have a strong field this year. 

 
As it turned out, a front-running group of sixteen came through the Deadwood vet check one right after another. 
This first group was a half hour ahead of last year's time at 50 miles into the ride. At this point, I was greatly appreciative that we had a very experienced Cup Committee overseeing the stops and fifteen experienced Tevis veterinarians to handle this close horse race at the level expected of Tevis.
Every year there are several rides within the ride. I cannot help but root for the foreign riders who have come so far to experience their dream of Tevis. Then there is the group that is going for their first buckle and are determined to get their money's worth by using all the time allowed to get to Auburn. Some of these riders finish with just minutes to spare. They are the riders who go home with coveted legacy buckles. They are the ones with huge smiles and big thank yous whenever I saw them on Sunday. My heart goes out to those who tried and fell short of getting their buckles.
 
The junior riders are a group who bring a special energy to the ride.  They are always fun to see coming through the stops, and as a group, they ride as well as any. Oh, to be in that category again.
 
The Signature Riders are a little less recognizable as they go through the ride, but they are also members of an elite group of passionate supporters of this event. When I do recognize them, I give them a nod of respect for the financial assistance they have given to make this the best ride ever.
 
We also had two landmark buckles awarded this year--a decade buckle for Danny Grant and a 2000 mile buckle for Pat Chappel.  Their stories sound very familiar to those who have tried Tevis. They have just kept it together both physically and emotionally longer than most-and persevered.
 
I am proud of the job that the current BOG members have done as well as the former BOG members who laid a strong foundation from which we all move forward. Thank you for all at the awards ceremony who helped recognize the army of volunteers who put forth heroic efforts year after year. These folks come back again and again to help all the riders reach their goals.
 
I hope to see you at the 2015 Tevis on August 1st,
 
Chuck Stalley
Tevis Ride Director

Welcome to the 2014 Tevis - President's Message

by Phil Gardner

A few years ago Marvin Jacinto coined the phrase "this ride ain't for snivelers".  Evidently the word got out because the snivelers didn't show up this year. What a great group of competitors we had from 13 countries all around the globe! It showed in the sportsmanship exhibited on the trail and in the number of completions at the finish. We saw several riders receive their buckle after failing to make the finish in previous attempts. The completion rate was 57.5% a record for the current trail. Congratulations to all.
 
Heather Reynolds from Dunnellon, Florida, riding a 14 year old gelding named French Open (Hadea) was the winner of the Tevis Cup. She was part of a group that had traveled together most of the day. At exactly 9:00 pm Heather, Tennessee Lane from Windsor, Colorado, riding WH Pico's Shazam (Shazam!) and Tom Johnson from Loomis, California, riding AM Lady Liberty Wins (Libby) left the Lower Quarry vet check, six miles from the finish, together. Thirty-two minutes later Heather crossed the finish line, followed in six minutes by Tennessee and in another three minutes by Tom. It was one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory. All the horses looked fantastic and easily passed their vet checks.
 
This is the second time Heather has received the Tevis Cup, winning it in 2003 riding Master Motion. Her husband Jeremy is no stranger to the Cup either, winning it three times in 2011, 2007 and 2004, quite an impressive record for the family duo.
 
One hour and eight minutes later Barrak Blakeley from Terrebonne, Oregon, riding MCM Last Dance, a 17 year old gelding, crossed the finish line. The pair was awarded the coveted Haggin Cup at the Sunday awards ceremony. Barrak is the first junior to win the Haggin Cup.* He is no stranger to the ride with four Tevis starts; this is his second Tevis finish. He has paid his dues in both successes and failures on the trail. We are very proud to see one of our junior riders receive this honor.
 
The Haggin Cup was first awarded to Paige Harper in 1962. In the early days many people thought that endurance riding was just a bunch of crazy people, who didn't care about their horses, running down the trail as fast as they could. To show that this wasn't the case, the Haggin Cup was established. To many the Haggin Cup is considered equally prestigious to the Tevis Cup. At 10:00 am the morning after the ride the veterinarian committee examines the top ten finishers and chooses the horse most fit to continue at that time. Neither speed nor weight carried the day before are factors to be considered, only the fitness of the horse. Wendell Robie put it this way. "Imagine you were in the old west and were attacked by outlaws and had to choose a horse out of the top ten to flee for your life, which one would you choose?" That was the premise of the Haggin Cup in 1962 just as it is in 2014.
 
The Haggin Cup is a prestigious award on its own. Many riders plan their ride to compete for this cup, not the Tevis Cup. Such a strategy may be completely different than one you would use for going for the Tevis Cup. One plan might be to try to take your time, save your horse and shoot for 9th or 10th place. The Haggin Cup is not a consolation prize for not getting the Tevis Cup; it is a completely different competition. In fifty two years only hand-full of people have managed to win the Tevis and Haggin cups in the same year.

 
This award for best condition became the standard for endurance riding and was one of the original five principles of AERC. Over time as AERC developed, they decided to add speed and weight carried as part of best condition judging criteria. When the Western States Trail Ride (WSTR) decided to join with AERC and become an AERC sanctioned ride it was granted special dispensation that allowed WSTR to continue to use the original best condition judging format. That is why the Haggin Cup judging is different than any other AERC sanctioned ride. 
 
In closing, I would like to thank the 2014 volunteers, ride director Chuck Stalley, the veterinarians, and Board of Governors. Thanks to your hard work, dedication to the Tevis and labors of love the 2014 Tevis Cup Ride will go down in history as one of the best ever.
 
* In 1972 Hal Hall won the Haggin Cup when he was 17. The rules in 1972 stated that a junior rider was 16 and younger and had to ride with a sponsor. At 17 years old a rider was considered an adult rider and did not have to ride with a sponsor. So Hal Hall was an adult rider in 1972. Prior to 1972 there was no rule requiring a sponsor for a junior rider nor were junior riders identified on the ride post ride charts. All junior rider records prior to 1972 are unofficial records.

 
Phil Gardner
President Western States Trail Foundation

Endurance.net's Book of the Month: Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses

http://www.endurance.net/market/bookstore/

by Nancy Loving

To spend hour after hour on the back of a horse is a dream come true for many riders. To ride for miles—25, 50, or even 100—on a fit horse, is an extremely satisfying experience, whether done in competition or just for pleasure. This thrill does not come easily however; it requires immense dedication from the rider and a lot of hard work from the horse.

No other equestrian sports demand such a continuous training effort as do endurance and competitive distance riding. To reach the highest level of the sports—competing in a 100-mile ride—requires years of careful conditioning. Even a 25-mile ride demands close attention to every nuance of a horse’s being—during the many miles of work beforehand and during the competition itself. It is the horse’s welfare that must come above all else.

This information-packed international bestseller should be on every endurance and competitive trail rider's shelf.

2013 AERC Hall of Fame Equine Remington

By John Parke

The latest equine inductee into the AERC Hall of Fame is my 26-year-old, 13.3-hand Icelandic horse, Remington. Why on earth would anybody want a cantankerous old pony in the Hall of Fame? Maybe the answer lies in the different ways we recognize endurance in our horses.

What is endurance in a horse? It can be the ability to perform well in a tough 50 or even 100 mile ride. It can also mean the ability to keep competing through a long season and garner year-end awards. Or it can mean the ability to stay sound enough to pile up ride completions over a long career.

Some of the horses in the Hall of Fame have won ride after ride. Others have rolled up mile after mile. Some have done both.

With Remington it is all about longevity. With two 50-mile rides so far this season, we have now completed endurance rides together for the last 20 years in a row. He has accumulated 11,300 career endurance miles so far. He is a gold level horse in the AERC’s 100-mile program for having completed ten 100-mile rides. He has also completed more than ten multiday Pioneer rides.

Even among all the incredible horses in the Hall of Fame, Remington is unique for the combination of these achievements.

Remington hasn’t been pulled since 2004 when he completed 2,055 miles in one season. He is the highest mileage gaited horse in the history of the sport by far. He participated in the XP 2001, XP 2004 and XP 2011 cross-country rides and has crossed the Continental Divide at South Pass three different times.

Whether you prefer the metaphor of the Energizer bunny or the Timex watch which keeps on ticking, the pony just keeps going.

Most people rightly think of Remington and me as back-of-the-pack finishers. Our only top ten finish when there were more than ten horses entered in a ride came in the first AERC 100 Mile Championship Ride in 1998 after other horses dropped out.

Remington did show an occasional turn of speed, though, years ago when I was pushing for him to be the first Icelandic to win a regional points championship. I think his fastest 50-mile time was 5:44 for a ride out in the desert. We went first middleweight in the Pacific Southwest Region in 1998 and again in 2004. It seemed like we were always competing back then with my fellow middleweight Randy Coleman and his superb Hall of Fame horse Pandora’s Pixy. We also took the regional rider mileage championship in both of those years, and placed second in national mileage in 2004.

We started endurance in 1995 just a few months after I bought Remington as a Christmas present for my wife and children the year before. I was an avid mountain biker at the time but thought that riding the pony would be something my whole family could share. I hadn’t ridden a horse for nearly 40 years since back when I would climb up on the back of one of my grandpa’s farm horses with two or three of my cousins when I was a child.

I thought it was only fair to try to keep Remington fit after I brought him home so I tried to ride him a couple of nights a week after I came home from work. His breeder told me that I should give endurance riding a try if I was going to ride him so much. She had done endurance on Icelandics to promote the breed a decade or so before. I also learned about the prominent role Icelandics played in the Great American Horse Race in 1976.

Endurance looked like the perfect sport for us. I figured I would learn a lot about horseback riding and horse care from other riders. We would have the benefit of supervision from veterinarians and ride managers to provide us a margin of safety while we both learned about covering long distances and tough terrain. We would be exposed to state-of-the-art information on horse care and equipment. We would get out on beautiful trails we might not otherwise have access to.


I entered our first ride after seeing an ad in a freebie magazine from the feed store. I was totally clueless about what to do at the ride, but Remington seemed to buzz right along. At the midway vet check, the vet said his trot didn’t look right. Then a gruff voice behind him said, “I vetted those furry things all the way across the country in the Great American Horse Race. That’s a tolt, not a trot. He’s fine.” (That was the beginning of a very long relationship with Dr. Dave Nicholson.)

I still remember the feeling of accomplishment when we finished. For some reason, completing that first 30-mile ride was one of the most satisfying things I had ever done.

Our next ride was a Terry Woolley Howe extravaganza near San Diego. I was so ignorant at the time that I didn’t even have a blanket for Remington when it started to rain the night before the ride. So I went over to the general store next to camp and bought a red-checkered plastic tablecloth and safety pins to use as a makeshift rain fly. We had such a good time the next day at Terry’s perpetual party that I could not imagine not doing it again. I guess we were hooked.

After a season of limited distance rides, we tried our first 50-milers at the beginning of 1996. We completed our first one but just weren’t adequately prepared to finish our second one. I then met up with Kim and Richard Fuess and received excellent mentoring from them on conditioning and nutrition for longer distances. This made a world of difference for us. We completed another half dozen or so 50s with no problem over the rest of the year.

We completed our first 100 the beginning of the next year. We did our first multiday ride six months later when we drove out to Utah with Richard and his young Arabian stallion Jake. It was obvious by then that Remington was never going to be a threat to finish first. It was equally clear, though, that he possessed that extra degree of toughness and soundness to stay fresh over any distance, especially multidays.

I came to realize that completing those longer distances was as much about me having the brain power and discipline to properly manage the horse over the course for hours and hours and even days as it was about the horse himself. Whether it was the scenery or the mental challenge, all of my favorite ride memories over the many years since then have come from 100-milers or multidays.

Remington’s time with the young stallion Jake at multidays illustrates much about the pony’s character. The same qualities that make him a great babysitter can make him a handful to deal with. The plain truth is that he is cranky and willful. He is supremely confident out on the trail, and everywhere else. He is obsessed with keeping other horses in line. Young, nervous horses love being with him. He has helped dozens of them through rides. Remington is the horse everybody waits for to lead the youngsters over difficult stream crossings or through herds of cattle.
Remington’s bossiness extends to other species besides horses. He relishes pushing cattle around. He has no tolerance for dogs. He enjoys the company of people but does not like being told what to do by them. His willingness to run away (but not very far) from anyone trying to hold his lead rope is legendary.

Remington’s aggressive nature can have its advantages. Perhaps my scariest experience riding him came when we surprised a full-grown black bear at close quarters on the aptly named Upper Oso trail in the national forest near my home. Clearly agitated, the bear faced us from less than ten feet away and started to rock from side to side. All I could think about was what would the bear do to me if I fell while my horse spun to run away. Instead, Remington pinned his ears back, arched his neck and charged. The bear, at least, had the good sense to turn around and run down the mountain.

I suppose Remington even has a protective or gentle side to his personality. The only other person besides me to ride him in an endurance ride was my youngest son, back when my son was 12 years old. My son has special needs but he wanted to try to get through an endurance ride at least once in his life.

Remington carried him as though he was bearing the most precious, most fragile cargo in the world. For once, he stood perfectly still for every mount and dismount. Whenever my son would stretch, Remington would gradually slow and give him time to get comfortable. Remington stayed perfectly balanced underneath him for 50 miles, with no sudden movements.

Tears still well in my eyes when I think of my son’s pride when they crossed the finish line and my gratitude for the priceless gift Remington gave us that day.

Remington’s extreme intelligence and insistence on being the decision maker certainly makes for an interesting ride since I am never sure of what he is going to do. He is nimble and sure-footed. He loves to dash through the rocks and jump over logs and washouts. It is thrilling to ride him while he weaves his way through the trees down a steep winding trail in the mountains at full speed.

He prefers to pick out the trail himself and is an expert at following ribbons. He has an amazing ability to memorize trail and terrain. He never fails to recognize a trail even in country he has traveled through only once or twice and hasn’t seen for years.

Any discussion of Remington’s behavior on the trail invariably turns to his gait, as in what is it? He actually has a flashy four-beat tolt when you make him do it but that is not the two-beat gait I hear on the trail. I assumed for years that his predominant gait was the trot. Endurance riders who rode a lot of miles with me would tell me that it didn’t look exactly like a trot to them. Trilby Pedersen used to call it his “little shuffle.”

So recently I got out all my old ride photos and researched books and articles on gaits. The photos of Remington’s side gait tell all. I cannot find one photo of him showing the classic diagonal stride and even footfall of a trot. Instead, what the photos consistently show is when the hind leg is touching down underneath him, the front leg on the same side is up in front of his chest with the foot hanging down. While the other hind leg is extended behind him, the front leg on that side is in a near vertical position under him instead of reaching out as it would be in a trot.
If I listen carefully, what I hear isn’t really a two-beat gait but a broken four-beat gait instead. I don’t hear the even four-beat “Black and Decker” sound of a proper tolt. I hear a “di-dut, di-dut” instead. Photos show his front feet are clearly touching and taking off before his corresponding hind feet. His hoof marks show a nine-inch overstride. Whatever it is, the gait is very, very smooth to ride at any speed. Methinks my pony dances the foxtrot!
Whatever way he is going, my strange little horse is still going strong. He hasn’t had a step of lameness since he started going barefoot several years ago. He has actually muscled up and become more powerful since I switched to a treeless saddle at about the same time.

I have been riding Remington now for exactly half of my adult life. The pressures of maintaining a busy law practice and caring for a now-adult special needs child never seem to leave me with enough time for riding. Still, we make do. Although my wife is my true love, Remington is definitely my soulmate. When we are riding in the wee hours of the morning, I can feel his muscles moving as though they are my own and I know he can read my thoughts. Sometimes it feels like we are two parts of the same being.

I was filled with pride when Remington was awarded Hall of Fame horse at the AERC national awards banquet this year. It was especially meaningful that the award was presented by our longtime friend Terry Woolley Howe, because she has witnessed our entire endurance riding career. Oddly, I wasn’t proud for my horse, because I already knew who he is and what he has accomplished. No, what I was proud of was my AERC.

I was proud of my AERC because it recognizes the value of keeping our horses sound and healthy over the miles and over the years. I was proud of my AERC for sticking to its guns and staying at the forefront of guarding our horses’ welfare for the 20 years Remington and I have been in the sport. I remain proud of my fellow endurance riders for creating a community centered around a profound respect for what our horses do for us.

Reprinted from the August 2014 issue of Endurance News, official publication of the nonprofit American Endurance Ride Conference, www.aerc.org, 866-271-2372

Lynne Glazer photos

Endurance riding: ‘It’s all about the horse’

Bluemountaineagle.com - Full Article

Angel Carpenter
Published: August 5, 2014 4:06PM

Seneca Stampede draws 56 riders to Bear Valley.

BEAR VALLEY – Holly Rouska of Bend has combined her love of endurance horse riding with her love of the Bear Valley area.

She and her husband Les, ride managers, have teamed up with friends in Seneca to provide a unique fund-raiser, the Seneca Stampede Endurance Ride.

It’s a labor of love to support the Seneca School Foundation.

“I’m incredibly passionate about endurance rides,” Holly said.

There were 56 riders, from Oregon, California, Idaho, Washington and Arizona, who showed up for the two-day event, also passionate about their horses and the trail...

Read more here:
http://www.bluemountaineagle.com/Local_Sports/20140805/endurance-riding-its-all-about-the-horse#.U_IF1Uj9hXl

‘Cantankerous old pony’ rides into US endurance Hall of Fame

horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article

By Contributor on Aug 14, 2014

At the age of 26, Icelandic horse Remington has been named as this year’s American Endurance Ride Conference Hall of Fame Equine.

The 13.3hh pony wasn’t honored for winning distance events, but for his consistency and true endurance. Owner John Parke shares the story of this remarkable competitor and how he came to earn endurance riding’s supreme honor.

Why on earth would anybody want a cantankerous old pony in the Hall of Fame? Maybe the answer lies in the different ways we recognize endurance in our horses...

Read more here:
http://horsetalk.co.nz/2014/08/14/cantankerous-old-pony-us-endurance-hall-fame/#axzz3AgE7hvBC

Sturgeon Creek Arabians: Breeding for Endurance

Canadian Arabian Horse Magazime

Pyatigorsk


A shortened version of this article, entitled “Sturgeon Creek Arabians’ Carl Fudge Honored for Outstanding Achievements in the Sport of Endurance,” appears in the August, 2014 issue of the Canadian Arabian Horse News.
The statistics…

From 1988 to 2014, Sturgeon Creek Arabians has bred 111 horses. Of those, 27 have competed in Endurance in the US and Canada, winning:

1 US National Championship;
2 selected for World Championships;
2 Tevis Cup finishes;
6 Regional Championships;
5 Reserve Regional Championships;
2 AERC Decade Team members.

Out of 596 total competitions, there have been 206 Top Ten finishes (35%), 55 wins, 38 seconds and 30 Best Condition awards. There has been a remarkable 87% completion rate, covering 25,000 miles in competition – beyond the distance around the world! Five horses have over 2,000 miles in competition and four others have between 1,400 and 2,000 miles.

These 27 Endurance horses were produced by 7 different sires and 17 different dams. It is amazing to have these consistently excellent results when there were different owners, different environments, and unique training and conditioning programs. The only common factor has been the power of the gene pools SCA has used. Other SCA-bred horses have competed in open dressage, Sport Horse competition and barrel racing, while many just became well-loved family members.

Full story...

Magalia woman, horse finish 100-mile Tevis Cup

By Dan Reidel


MAGALIA >> Three and a half years of practice and failure paid off for JayaMae Gregory when she rode Asali, her Missouri fox trotter horse, across the finish line at the Tevis Cup in Auburn early Sunday morning.

Gregory and Asali finished the 100-mile endurance race 66th out of the 107 teams that finished. A total of 186 began the race at Robie Equestrian Park near Truckee and ended at Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn. Asali was the second Missouri fox trotter to complete the 100-mile race since 1979, and the other Missouri fox trotter completed the ride in 2011 when the 100 miles were shortened because the toughest canyons were clogged with snow.

Last year, Gregory attempted the Tevis Cup, but fell short when she and Asali were about 20 minutes late to the 55-mile checkpoint.

"It was right after the most difficult canyon, Devil's Thumb Canyon," Gregory said. "It was extremely hot. She pooped out on me."

Gregory walked the horse through the canyon, but they were a little too late to keep going.

"This year, I still did almost the entire thing on foot," Gregory said of tackling the Devil's Thumb. "But she let me tail her this year. With tailing, I grabbed her tail and she pulled me right out of that canyon."

read full story

Swashbuckle to support SIRE's special needs riders

Yourhoustonnews.com - Full Article

Posted: Tuesday, August 12, 2014 1:10 pm
By Community Reports

Ready for an old-fashioned movie experience? In a state-of-the-art theater?

Come watch Hidalgo at the Alamo Drafthouse in the Vintage and support SIRE’s special needs riders at the same time.

Of Hidalgo, Roger Ebert said, “Bold, exuberant and swash-buckling, Hidalgo has the purity and simplicity of something Douglas Fairbanks or Errol Flynn might have bounded through. Hidalgo is a throwback to a more innocent time when heroes and their horses risked everything just because life was so damned boring in the slow lane.”

SIRE patrons also will have the chance to hear from Darolyn Butler, championship endurance rider, who’s raced over some of the same harsh land portrayed in Hidalgo.

Darolyn won her first of many championships in 1984. Among other accomplishments in the 1990’s, she won the Gold Medal and Best Condition at the World Nature Games in Brazil. Around the same time, she acquired her Texas Trainer’s License and trained Arabians and a few thoroughbreds for the racetrack...

Read more here:
http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/east_montgomery/living/swashbuckle-to-support-sire-s-special-needs-riders/article_9bf5737a-1b07-5de1-baaa-db3fac15b16e.html

City of Electrifying Rocks

Karen Bumgardner

The lightening was flashing all around us as we zig zagged our horses through the trees and brush. The horses were tense and the air filled with electricity. As the trail wound around we'd see the bright flash and hear the crack of the thunder directly above us. With one deafening crack of thunder I was accused of screaming like a girl! It was just a small scream but the danger was real as we scurried down the mountain side as fast as we dared.

This was true endurance at the City of Rocks Pioneer ride, August 9. Day 3 had begun as a gorgeous morning and turned to thunder and lightening. Most stories start at the beginning, this one starts backwards, near the end.

Full story...

Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning Radio Show with Jordan Heald, Barrak Blakely, and Heather Reynolds

www.horsesinthemorning.com

Tune in to http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/ tomorrow for Endurance day.

Jordan Heald tells us about her first Tevis completion, while Barrak Blakely fills us in on what it's like to win the Haggin Cup as the youngest rider on the oldest horse to win ever and Heather Reynolds is going to describe her exciting ride to a first place finish at this years Tevis Cup, Plus more -- endurance tips, biothane tack, how to find a mentor and more. Horses in the Morning 6 - 7:30 a.m. pst.

To listen live, go to http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/ and add the phone app to your smart phone if you have one, otherwise you can listen through a web browser on Tuesday - 6 to 7:30 a.m. PST (9 to 10:30 EST).

Watton rider to represent England at endurance competition

Edp24.co.uk - Full Article

Doug Faulkner
Friday, August 8, 2014

It is a sport that pushes both animal and rider to the limit but for one Norfolk woman it has led her to the international stage.

Carol Chapman is set to compete in this year’s endurance riding Home International competition in Scotland.

Endurance riding sees riders and their mounts travel over long distances through all kinds of conditions and types of countryside.

Although she has been riding since the age of 11, this will be the first time Mrs Chapman, now 57, will be competing at an international level.

She said: “I am really proud and pleased to be selected.

“Of course now I am thinking that I mustn’t let anybody down but all you can do is the ride to the best of your abilities.”

Endurance competitions come in different forms with some requiring speed while others involve monitoring the horses heart rate...

Read more here:
http://www.edp24.co.uk/news/watton_rider_to_represent_england_at_endurance_competition_1_3719154

Horseback Riding Meets Running in the Sport of Ride and Tie

Horsechannel.com - Full Article

Fun and fitness are all part of this unique endurance sport.
By Anna O’Brien, DVM | August 8, 2014

Are you a horse lover and a runner? Ever wonder if there was a way to combine the sport of endurance riding with cross-country running? Look no further! The equestrian sport called ride and tie might be right for you.

Officially started in 1971, this relatively new sport to the horse world requires a team of two people and one horse. Over a trail course that can vary in length from under ten miles to one hundred miles, each individual trades off riding the horse and running solo at strategic distances along the course.

While the horse and rider gallop ahead, the runner makes up distance on foot and catches up to the horse that has been tied up and is waiting, while the previous rider then becomes the runner. This leapfrog method continues through the entire length of the course until all three team members cross the finish line...

Read more here:
http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-news/2014/08/08-horseback-riding-meets-running-in-ride-and-tie.aspx

Tevis Cup riders aren’t horsing around

Auburnjournal.com - Full Article

Wednesday Aug 06 2014
59th annual Western States Trail Ride

100-mile equestrian endurance test set for Saturday
By: Matthew Kimel, Journal sports editor

The 59th annual Tevis Cup is so foal of good horses, Ride Director Chuck Stalley can’t even pick a favorite.

“The field is loaded,” Stalley said of the 195 riders and steeds entered in Saturday’s Western States Trail Ride, which begins at Robie Park at 5:15 a.m. and ends 24 hours later in the Endurance Capital of the World. “Sometimes they put pressure on each other and they can’t finish. But they’ll push each other hard. This is a very competitive field. It will be very hard this year to get in the top 10.”

Some of the equestrian endurance athletes will be seeking the Tevis Cup with a first-place finish and others the Haggin Cup, awarded to a top-10 finisher whose horse finishes the ride in the best condition after arriving at the Gold Country Fairgrounds’ McCann Stadium.

Others simply just want to finish in less than a day’s time, bringing home a coveted buckle...

Read more here:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/8/06/14/tevis-cup-riders-aren%E2%80%99t-horsing-around

Tevis Cup welcomes foreign riders to Auburn

Auburnjournal.com - Full Article

Tuesday Aug 05 2014
By: Matthew Kimel, Journal sports editor

Woman says 'everybody in Europe' talks about Western States Trail Ride

Auburn Mayor Bridget Powers had the chance to show off her foreign language skills Tuesday night, saying hello to more than a handful of international Tevis Cups riders in their respective languages at a dinner welcoming the out-of-towners to the Endurance Capital of the World.

About 140 people attended the Tevis Cup’s annual Foreign Rider Reception/VIP Dinner held outside at the Auburn Staging Area, giving the riders from overseas the opportunity to share their stories of why they want to compete in the Western States Trail Ride.

This year’s field, which will take off from Robie Park near Squaw Valley Saturday at 5:15 a.m. in hopes of reaching the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn within 24 hours, features 197 entries. Sixteen of the riders hail from countries other than the United States, representing 12 nations...

Read more here:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/8/05/14/tevis-cup-welcomes-foreign-riders-auburn

Tevis Cup a bucket list item for woman who had heart transplant

Auburnjournal.com - Full Article

August 3 2014
By: Matthew Kimel, Journal sports editor

Angie Mikkelson has been dreaming about Tevis Cup and riding along the Western States Trail for years.

The circumstances, however, have never been right for the 39-year-old North Dakota woman.

She’s never had the right horse. And until having a heart transplant in 2000, Mikkelson wasn’t healthy enough to compete in the 100-mile equestrian endurance ride from Robie Park to Auburn.

This year, though, the pieces are all falling into place.

Mikkelson is leaving Scranton, N.D., today, embarking on a three-day drive to the Endurance Capital of the World.

Mikkelson and her 9-year-old chestnut gelding Tango are both in good condition, trying to earn a buckle in Saturday’s Western States Trail Ride...

Read more here:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/8/03/14/tevis-cup-bucket-list-item-woman-who-had-heart-transplant

Auburn Tevis Cup rider, trainer Mark Schuerman is a kayaking cowboy

Auburnjournal.com - Full Article

Wednesday Jul 30 2014
By: Matthew Kimel, Journal sports editor

Horses help him feed his whitewater addiction

A self-proclaimed cowboy, Mark Schuerman of Auburn is an expert when it comes to working with steeds for endurance and show.

“I don’t own any horses,” said Schuerman, who will be riding in his sixth Tevis Cup on Aug. 9 and seeking his third buckle. “I just train them.”

He also rides. And he does it well.

Schuerman finished seventh in last year’s Western States Trail Ride. He also completed the 100-mile ride from Robie Park near Squaw Valley to the Endurance Capital of the World in 2012, placing 11th...

Read more here:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/7/30/14/auburn-tevis-cup-rider-trainer-mark-schuerman-kayaking-cowboy

Stroh Rides the Shamrock Endurance again

Carla Stroh, riding Spook, finished in the top ten in the 30 mile Shamrock Endurance Ride. Courtesy Photo

Posted: Wednesday, Jul 30th, 2014
BY: Phyllis Hahn


On July 5, Carla Stroh, riding her husband’s Arabian horse named Spook, participated in the annual Shamrock Endurance Ride that takes place on the Dietz Ranch southwest of Wheatland. This is the location where Tom Horn allegedly shot Willy Nichols. Stroh was accompanied by her good friend, Barb Orr of Mesa, Ariz., who had come along to do the all-important job of “crewing”. This involves being ready to take care of the horse when they come in for a vet check after the first loop. They have to sponge the horse down to cool it off and have water or Gatorade for the rider. They have to be willing to do whatever job the rider wants them to do at the last minute. Barb excels in this! The idea is to get the horse’s heart rate down to the required minimum so the vet can test him to see if he is fit to continue to ride. The vet tests for soundness at the trot, heart rate recovery after the trot out, capillary refill time, muscle tone and gut sounds. If the horse fails any of these, he is pulled from the race.

[More ...]

Stampede! Equestrians compete, riding for a good cause

Bluemountaineagle.com - Full Article

Angel Carpenter
Published: July 29, 2014 3:58PM

Horses and riders compete in Seneca Stampede Endurance Ride.

BEAR VALLEY – Several rough riders kicked it up a notch last weekend for the Seneca Stampede Endurance Ride.

They clipped along several trails, mapped out by ride managers Les and Holly Rouska, enjoying the countryside of the Malheur National Forest while competing.

The Stampede drew out-of-town and local participants for routes that included the Intro Ride, Ride & Tie, a 25-mile and 50-mile ride...

Read more here:
http://www.bluemountaineagle.com/Local_Sports/20140729/stampede-equestrians-compete-riding-for-a-good-cause#.U9j9t4BdWnk

Tevis Trail Update

Teviscup.org

July 29 2014

The trail crew has been working tirelessly on the trail as the ride approaches. Most recently, Steve Hallmark and his crew tackled the Pucker Point section. Reports back are that the trail is clear and in good shape. We thank our many volunteers who have put in countless hours making our trail safe and passable. 

As many of you know, riding the canyons will be a bit different from past years without the Swinging Bridge in commission. In order to ease some concerns, we asked experienced Tevis riders to report back on their training ride. Here is what 7-time finisher and WSTF Board Member, Tony Benedetti had to say about the river crossing when he rode it with Past WSTF President, Kathie Perry:

"I crossed this creek on July 5th. I was third in line of a group of horse. The entrance into the creek was not unsafe. The water is deepest in the middle, a bit of a hole, but it was only belly deep. I didn't get my feet wet. The exit up the bank is a little difficult but not unsafe, nor any worse than other trail obstacles prior to this point in the ride. The worst part is a boulder in the creek in front of the exit. The rider has to decide to go left or right around the boulder to exit the creek. The three of us went left. Overall, this creek crossing is no more dangerous than other sections of the trail.

As far as riders turning around and going back to Last Chance, during the ride this would be very dangerous and no rider should go backwards on the trail until the Sweep Riders have passed."

Tony Benedetti 

Auburn business owner ready to try Tevis Cup for first time

Auburnjournal.com - Full Article

July 28 2014

Victory Velo Bike Shop's Dawn Tebbs training 'on big girl trails'

By: Matthew Kimel, Journal sports editor

Dawn Tebbs loves a challenge.

The 46-year-old Auburn business owner is in for one when she tests the 100-mile Tevis Cup for the first time.

“Being a mother of four boys isn’t challenging enough,” joked Tebbs, who’s always had an interest in the Western States Trail Ride while living in the Endurance Capital of the World. “I have to set the bar pretty high.”

Tebbs, who will begin her journey at 5:15 a.m. in at Robie Park near Squaw Valley on Aug. 9 in hopes of reaching home within 24 hours, will be riding Beylis Comet, a 10-year-old bay mare.

Beylis was first trained by Mark Schuerman, one of five other Auburn equestrian endurance athletes entered in this year’s Tevis Cup...

Read more here:
http://www.auburnjournal.com/article/7/28/14/auburn-business-owner-ready-try-tevis-cup-first-time

Local rider saddling up for world's longest horse race

Photo: The Adventurists WKYC.com - Full Story and video

Susan Moses, WKYC 11:36 p.m. EDT July 15, 2014

If I have to reset my own femur, which is what they teach you how to do, I will cross the finish line.
Stephanie Murray

HINCKLEY, Ohio -- Say "derby" in the sporting world, and it's "Kentucky" that immediately comes to mind. But the world's most grueling horse derby takes place far from Churchill Downs. It's run in the Mongolian Steppe and as we found out a local woman is among a small group of international riders brave enough to try it.

Stephanie "Stevie" Murray has ridden most of her life, but much of it has been in the show ring on her dependable mount Gilbert. Murray's horseback riding experience is about as far removed from the Mongol Derby as you can get...

Read more and watch the video here:
http://www.wkyc.com/story/life/2014/07/15/local-rider-taking-part-in-mongol-derby/12483987/

In Khan’s steps

Suffolknewsherald.com - Full Article

July 25 2014
by Matthew Ward

An adventurer will carry leatherwork created in Suffolk across the steppes of Mongolia when she sets out in the world’s longest horse race.

The intricate work of Miguel Aguilar, owner of The Saddle Barn on Pruden Boulevard, was discovered by 32-year-old Rose Sandler on Instagram.

“I called them up one morning, and I decided to come and visit because it’s (Aguilar’s work) really cool,” Sandler, of Culpeper, said.

Aguilar says he’s been a leathersmith essentially “my whole life,” and is the third generation of his family to practice the art.

Born in the Mexican city of Guadalajara, his family moved to Texas in 1995, when he was 14. He opened the Suffolk shop a year ago...

Read more here:
http://www.suffolknewsherald.com/2014/07/25/in-khans-steps/

Two Weeks till the 59th Tevis Cup

July 25 2014

With 2 weeks till the 59th Tevis Cup, 193 riders from 12 countries have pre-entered the ride. Foreign riders are from France, Ecuador, Australia, UK, Austria, Germany, Japan, Norway, Canada, Israel, and The Netherlands. The field includes 8 juniors who have taken advantage of the Juniors Ride Free promotion, sponsored by EasyCare.

For more information on the Tevis Cup and an entry form, see:
http://teviscup.org/

For a detailed list of rider/horse entries, see:
http://teviscup.org/tevis-2014/tevis-rider-list

Hannah Pruss and Krusador win 2014 Big Horn 100

12 July 2014

Hannah Pruss and Krusador won the legendary Big Horn 100 in Shell, Wyoming on July 12th, in 14:05, finishing in the daylight. Just 7 minutes behind her were husband-wife team of Dennis and Sue Summers, riding AH Bantiki (aka "Bogart") and Oh Susanna (aka "Peach"), respectively. Bogart won the Best Condition award.

It's a tough ride, "around 15,000 feet of climb and descent through some of the most scenic, and rocky country I have ever seen," Dennis Summers said. "At any pace this trail presents huge challenges… Anybody who reaches the finish line knows they are a serious endurance rider aboard a serious endurance horse."

Sami and Linda Browneller and Christina Long finished 1-2-3 in 7:30 on the 50-mile ride, with Best Condition going to Long.

Riders praised the volunteers, ride management and organization, and trail markings for the successful ride. "Spectacular company, horsemen, trails, ride management," said 10th place finisher and 3-time buckle winner Roxi Welling.

For complete (unofficial) results and stories by Dennis Summers and Roxy Welling, see:
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2014BigHorn/

North American Junior and Young Rider Endurance Championship on July 18

July 15 2014

The North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) is the premier equestrian competition in North America for junior and young riders, age 14-21. Young equestrians vie for team and individual FEI medals in several disciplines. The competition is run under rules of the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale), the international governing body for equestrian sport, and is the only FEI championship held annually on this continent.
 
The 2014 Endurance Championship will be held on July 18, 2014.

Definite Entry List
 
USA Central Combined
Chef d' Equipe: Jeremy Olson
 
Mary Kathryn Clark - Chasing The Wind
Emilynn DiBassie - MK Spyder
Christina Kimery - Noslo’s Selket Da
Jessica DiCamillo - SHA Strike Two
 
 
USA Southeast Combined
Chef d' Equipe:  Lynn Kenelly
 
Mallory Capps - SA Belshazzar
Michael Bishop - Thundering Overtime
Morgan Watson - My Lords Elisha
Josie Whelan - FFC First Csea Lord
Cassandra Roberts - Golden Lightning
 
 
USA Northeast Combined
Chef d' Equipe:  Natalie Muzzio
 
Katie Baldino - Questafir
Hunter Green - Spotless Summer Magic
Maria Muzzio - Laconic
Taylor Stine - Wonder Witch
 
 
Canada West
Katya Levermann - TEF Sunflash

For more information see:
http://usequineendurance.org/2014-najyrc.html

Endurance.net's Book of the Month: A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains

http://www.endurance.net/market/bookstore/

by Isabella Lucy Bird

Talk about a long distance rider!

In 1872, Isabella Bird, daughter of a clergyman, set off alone to the Antipodes 'in search of health' and found she had embarked on a life of adventurous travel. In 1873, wearing Hawaiian riding dress, she rode her horse through the American Wild West, a terrain only newly opened to pioneer settlement. The letters that make up this volume were first published in 1879. They tell of magnificent, unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife, of encounters with rattlesnakes, wolves, pumas and grizzly bears, and her reactions to the volatile passions of the miners and pioneer settlers. A classic account of a truly astounding journey.

AERC Nomination Time!

July 13 2014 

Nominate a worthy AERC member for: Hall of Fame Member, Hall of Fame Equine, Pard'ners Award, Volunteer Service Award, and Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award, this year's highest honors.

Nominations are due August 1, 2014 -- send to Vice President Lisa Schneider (see form for details).

Award Descriptions:

Hall of Fame, Equine & Member:
Honors lifetime achievements by recognizing outstanding performances or outstanding contributions to the sport or to AERC.

Pard'ners Award:
Rider and horse perform together as a mutually bonded team. Rider and horse engender a spirit of friendship, enthusiasm and championship that makes those around them glad to have attended the ride. However competitive they may be, good sportsmanship remains their first priority. Horse and rider take care of each other. Together horse and rider personify the prevailing and abiding goal of AERC "To Finish is to Win." This award was established in honor of the late Mae Schlegel.

AERC Volunteer Service Award:
This award is established to honor an AERC member who has devoted an extraordinary amount of volunteer effort, time and service on behalf of the AERC for many years. This award may not be given every year.

Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award:
This award, first given in 2012, honors the member who has worked tirelessly for equine trails. This award may not be given every year

Click here for the nomination form.

Fireworks Endurance Ride returns Saturday

Santacruzsentinel.com - Full Article

by Wire Services
July 10 2014

The world's prettiest equestrian athletes will be parading through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Upper UC Santa Cruz and Wilder Ranch State Park this Saturday.

The Fireworks Endurance Ride, hosted by the Santa Cruz County Horsemen's Association, will see endurance horses and their riders taking on 25- and 50-mile routes beginning at 6:30 a.m. Typically these are Arabian horses, which are gorgeous to look at and known for their stamina, but this year Santa Cruz gets a special treat: spotted horses, there for the Appaloosa National Championship Endurance Ride taking place simultaneously...

Read more here:
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/localnews/ci_26129414/outside-roundup-fireworks-endurance-ride-returns-saturday

Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning Radio Show with Jordan Rae and Jeremy Reynolds

www.horsesinthemorning.com

Tune in to http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/ tomorrow for Endurance day.

Karen Chaton's guests are 17-year-old junior Jordan Rae who is entered in Tevis this year on a Rocky Mountain horse that she trained and conditioned herself, and Jeremy Reynolds, who will talk about what he thinks about the differences between running the WST 100 and riding it (he's won the Tevis Cup 3 times) and then will also talk about the USA team selection process for WEG coming up in August.

To listen live, go to http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/ and add the phone app to your smart phone if you have one, otherwise you can listen through a web browser on Tuesday - 6 to 7:30 a.m. PST (9 to 10:30 EST).

Tevis Cup Entry Fee Increases July 12th

Teviscup.org

July 5 2014

With just under 5 weeks till the 59th annual Tevis Cup, you can still enter the ride for the normal ride entry fee. Traditional ride entry is $400, which includes drug testing, Robie Park camping, one ticket to the Friday Night Dinner, and one ticket to the Sunday Awards Banquet. First time finishers may choose to receive a Legacy Buckle for no charge. Award buckle is $150.00 when reserved pre-ride and is nonrefundable. Buckles are $199 when purchased post ride.

Signature Ride Entries cost $1500, and include raditional ride entry plus a generous donation to the Western States Trail Foundation. This entry package ncludes a buckle upon completion of the ride, a Signature Entry jacket and horse sheet, an invitation to
the VIP/Foreign Rider dinner, Wednesday evening barbeque, reserved seating at the Sunday Awards Banquet, two nights of stabling for your horse, Easyboots, and additional items. To make the weekend more relaxed, the Signature Rider also receives CalStar
helicopter insurance for the weekend and parking assistance at the Robie Park ride camp and Foresthill vet check. Signature Entries are limited to 15 riders.

Junior Entries are free to the first ten juniors who enter with an adult sponsor. Easy Care’s generosity makes
it possible for this program, which includes a Legacy Buckle for first time junior finishers, to be offered again
in 2014.

The ride entry fees increase by $100 on July 13.

For more information or to fill out your ride entry, see:
http://www.teviscup.org/images/docs/2014/2014_Entry_Standard.pdf

More Than the Finish Line

WhyEndurance Blog - Full Story

Mike LaRoux

Ten years ago I made a conscious decision to live my life outside of my comfort zone. I had held in my grasp for a fleeting few seconds the feeling that I could do the things I thought were impossible, and it was intoxicating. It was the start of a lifelong adventure which has taken me to the jungles of Papua New Guinea, the sand dunes of the Moroccan Sahara, the remote outback of Australia, up and over the unforgiving hills of the Comrades marathon in South Africa, over staggering altitudes in the Rockies, swimming 6 miles in the ocean off Hawaii and now riding five back to back 50 mile days on horse back in Utah.

Over the years as I pushed and explored the boundaries of my comfort zone, or discomfort zone as I came to know it, I developed a philosophy I called More Than The Finish Line, which effectively focused on my journey, allowing me to live outside of my comfort zone but in a way that made sense of the set backs and managed my expectations. It allowed me to let go of finish lines and showed me the value and the joy of the journey. When I look back 15 years I could never have imagined that I would be where I am now, a South Africa born, naturalized Australia, living in the Coloradan Rockies on a property, with horses and dogs, and plenty of local wildlife, riding the trails on horseback and working for a not for profit that encourages kids to get off the couch and outside.

On our wedding day in October 1999, I weighed a hefty 253 lbs, all of which I attributed to my Rugby Union playing background, and the requirement to stop a charging athlete dead in his tracks. Over the past 15 years I have spent all of my energy and focus on trying to become as efficient as possible over long distance. Being a bigger framed athlete (6.3ft) I have always found that longer, harder and tougher has tended to suit me, by bringing everyone back to a level playing field.

Over the years I have competed at the highest level in Ironman Triathlon, run a multi-day race across the Moroccan Sahara desert and run competitively at the half-marathon, marathon, 50 mile and 100 mile distances. In 2010 I was fortunate enough to cross the finish line first at the Ultraman World Championships in Hawaii, a 3-day endurance triathlon, and decided that I had spent a long career in triathlon, and that it was time to pursue something different. At the time I was working for a global engineering firm in Australia, while studying to be a coach and personal trainer. To walk the talk I needed to follow my passions in life and get out from behind a desk.

In 2011 my focus became on gaining qualification status for the Badwater Ultramarathon in Death Valley...

Read more here:
http://whyendurance.blogspot.com/2014/06/more-than-finish-line.html

Endurance.net's Book of the Month: The Egyptian Alternative: Breeding the Arabian Horse, Vol. 1

July 3 2014

http://www.endurance.net/market/bookstore/

The Egyptian Alternative: Breeding the Arabian Horse, Volume 1, by Philippe Paraskevas

The author challenges many current notions about breeding and showing. He also questions whether Western breeders should continue to set the parameters for “Egyptian” breeding or whether breeders in Egypt will reclaim their history and take responsibility for safeguarding the Egyptian Arabian horse for the future. A book to challenge the thinking of all Arabian horse breeders.

Review
As the source and foundation of Egyptian Arabian breeding, it is important for breeders to learn as much as possible about the E.A.O. and breeding in Egypt. El Zahraa is at the core of many of the key issues. The Egyptian Alternative presents a well thought out approach to preserving all the bloodlines and to utilizing them in a careful way that will insure they remain an integral part of our cultural heritage. --Ahmed S. Hamza, Former Chairman, E.A.O.

Through the years there have been many books and publications about the Egyptian Arabian horse but few have been written by an Egyptian. We now have The Egyptian Alternative which has been written by a local breeder who maintains a breeding philosophy that remains close to the traditional approach and does not follow the current strategy of adding specific refinement to the basic characteristics. He believes that many of the trends introduced by the West into the show ring have deviated from the original principles. Paraskevas also presents a different interpretation on the history of the Egyptian Arabian as published by several researchers, historians and breeders. He has done his research and homework in a very thorough manner and while occasionally controversial, the book will trigger discussions and debates for some time. As such it is a must read work. --Dr. Nasr Marei, Ph.D., Al Badeiya Stud Farm

I have known Philippe for over 25 years and have always felt that he is a real lover of the Arabian and a true breeder. In this time we need devoted people like him who still love and care about El Zahraa. Serious Arabian horse people should read this book to learn what is a real Arabian and how to live with this noble creature. --Dr. Ibrahim Zaghloul, Director E.A.O. (Retired)

Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning Radio Show with Kristen Lacy and Julie White

Horsesinthemorning.com

June 10 2014

Endurance Day with Karen Chaton features Kristen Lacy from Distance Depot with the low down on heart rate monitors, Julie White on Australian endurance riding, Kirt Lander answers a listener question about glue on boots and Dr. Gillespie on the latest AERC rule change proposal. Listen in...

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-06-10-2014-endurance-day-australia-heart-monitors-101-glue-on-boots-rule-changes-proposed/

Two local equestrians are vying for spots on U.S. team for the World Equestrian Games

NJ.com - Full Article

By Lillian Shupe/Hunterdon County Democrat
on June 10, 2014 at 4:40 PM

Two local equestrians are hoping to be on the U.S. team going to the World Equestrian Games later this summer.

Tewksbury Township native Doug Payne has his eye on a spot on the three-day eventing team. Eventing has three phases — dressage, cross-country and show jumping...


Dr. Meg Sleeper of Kingwood Township has two of the 16 horse-rider combinations on the Long List for 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games chosen by United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

Syrocco Cadence, an 11-year-old Arabian mare and Syrocco Reveille, a 14-year-old Arabian mare are both owned by Sleeper.

Sleeper of Kingwood Township was one of two riders that represented the United States at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games endurance test event last summer. The ride was held at Sartilly in Manche, France...

Read more here:
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/06/two_local_equestrians_are_vyin.html

Last Day of Back Country Horsemen Fundraiser

June 9 at 11:59 PM is the final day of the "Keeping Trails Open for You" fundraising campaign on Indiegogo.com. The goal of $50,000 has already been passed, with the amount reaching $62,842 so far for the non-profit Back Country Horseman of America.

Why the campaign? "Because our trails on public lands need you. 

"Like you, the men and women of Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA) care about protecting and sustaining a safe and accessible outdoor experience for our families and future generations. But we can't do it alone. We count on our partners and you to help us preserve access to public lands. In 2012, only 37% of the 158,000 miles of National Forest Service trails received basic maintenance. Only one-quarter of these trails meet standard regulation for public use. 
Gaps of investment, oversight, and maintenance point to a future with fewer sustainable trails in our 144 National Forests. 
The funds from this campaign will increase BCHA's capacity to drive a national campaign to address the growing trail maintenance backlog on our public lands. BCHA, along with partner The Wilderness Society, have become the catalyst of a national discussion with Congress, agency leaders and the nation's recreation community regarding solutions for keeping trails open and enjoyable for everyone--hikers, hunters, anglers, bird-watchers, bicyclists and horsemen alike! With our decades-long track record of volunteerism and "sweat equity" in keeping America's trails open for you, BCHA's crowdfunding effort will secure our role in the campaign to secure sustainable solutions to the Nation's trail maintenance crisis."

All monies above $50,000 received will be split 50/50 with BCH state organizations and chapters via the BCHA Education Foundation.

To donate on today's last day, see https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/keeping-trails-open-for-you-back-country-horsemen-of-america.

For more information on the Back Country Horsemen, see http://www.backcountryhorse.com/

Don't Forget the AERC Master Trail Class in June!

June 9 2014

AERC Trail Master Class ($225/limited to 16 students) will be held June 21-24, 2014, in Duluth, Minnesota.  Must be an AERC member in good standing for at least one year.  Contact Candy Barbo for more information 218 349-9606 or candy.barbo@gmail.com.

AERC sponsors Trail Master classes across the U.S. In addition to teaching endurance riders the proper way to design and build new trails -- and maintain and improve existing trails -- we invite two land managers to attend the class with riders. Mornings are spent in the classroom. A written test follows at lunch, and afternoons are set aside for field work and getting one's hands dirty.

Those who graduate from the four-day course are certified crew leaders, and can go anyplace to lead crews in the proper way to maintain, build and design trails. By working together with our land managers we can build sustainable trails for the future.

29 horse riders gather for endurance event; Horse enthusiasts from 6 states come to Barry County

Cassville-democrat.com - Full Article

Wednesday, June 4, 2014
By Murray Bishoff

Cassville Democrat

For the 22nd year, local horse and riding enthusiasts have completed the Jo Tate Memorial Endurance Ride at the Flag Springs Conservation Area, west of Washburn.

A total of 29 riders participated on the first day and 18 on the second, doing the 25 and 50-mile treks.

The ride is the only endurance ride in Missouri held on Conservation Department-owned land. Jodi Hess-Schlup, ride manager for the every year of the event, plotted three separate 50-mile loops to provide significant variety for the participants. This year, riders came from the Four-State area, as well as Texas and Mississippi...

Read more here:
http://www.cassville-democrat.com/story/2089075.html

2014 Tevis Cup Entries Now Available

Teviscup.org

The 59th annual Tevis Cup is open for entries!

To qualify to enter the Western States Trail Ride, Riders (not the equine) must, at the time of application, meet one of the qualifications below. The 300 miles are cumulative lifetime. Equine must be a minimum of 72 months (6 years) old at time of ride.

For entry form and more information, see
http://www.teviscup.org/tevis-2014/the-2014-tevis-cup

Back Country Horsemen of America Helps Keep Our Nation’s Landscape Clean

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 31, 2014
 
By Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
Back Country Horsemen of America defends our right to ride horses on public lands, and they also believe strongly in recreating responsibly, whether we ride horses, mountain bikes, or ATVs, or simply use our own two feet. Sadly, there are some folks who don’t feel the same respect for our wild lands. When they leave behind trash and discarded items, it tarnishes the pristine countryside and can create hazards for people, domestic animals, and wildlife. BCHA members from coast to coast spend many hours every year cleaning up after litterbugs.  
 
A Long Term Commitment
 
Members of the Uintah Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah recently spent a day cleaning up trash at Doc’s Beach. This Bureau of Land Management property in the northeast corner of Utah is a popular recreation site for horseback riders, ATV riders, hikers, and shotgun shooters. But because it’s only a 15-minute drive from the city of Vernal, irresponsible people find it a convenient place to leave their garbage and other unwanted items.
 
Chapter members pulled on work gloves and in no time had loaded a refrigerator, kitchen stove, two recliners, and numerous smaller items into a borrowed trailer for proper disposal at the dump.
 
The BLM’s Vernal District has upgraded the Doc’s Beach site by installing a proper trailhead and bathrooms, and by improving the parking area. They’re currently in the process of designating trails on public land in and around Utah’s Uintah Basin, including the Doc’s Beach area.
 
Projects like this benefit all users who enjoy recreating there. As member Don Connolly said, “If everyone would leave the area a little better than they found it, we could all enjoy it more.” The Uintah Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah is committed to helping keep Doc’s Beach clean, with an even more ambitious cleanup planned for National Public Lands Day in September.
 
Keeping Trails Beautiful for All to Enjoy
 
Five members of the Northeast Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Washington volunteered to help clean up discarded items in a large hobo camp near the Centennial Trail, which follows the Spokane River in Spokane, Washington.
 
City crews had bagged old camping gear, clothes, and miscellaneous junk into 80 pound feed sacks donated by Justin Bag Company. The Northeast Chapter members loaded them onto four pack mules and hauled them up the steep riverbank trail. After one full day of many round trips, they had hauled a total of around 1,500 pounds of bagged garbage.
 
This project was completed in association with the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the City of Spokane Park and Recreation Department, the City of Spokane Valley, and Spokane County Park and Recreation Department.
 
The Northeast Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Washington was pleased to assist in this project which focused on an area where equestrian recreation isn’t allowed. Their involvement demonstrates a desire to improve trails for all users and the value of pack animals in accomplishing that goal.
 
Whatever the Mess, They Clean it Up
 
The Canyon Country Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah picked up trash from over 38 miles of trail in the Dixie National Forest, packing out 450 pounds of rubbish. This work was completed for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management.
 
This ambitious BCH chapter also cleaned up the ashes and debris that remained after a fire had destroyed the historic Cowpuncher Cabin and outbuildings in the Dixie National Forest. In coordination with the US Forest Service, a dozen members armed with shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, trash cans, and numerous extra heavy duty trash bags volunteered several hours of their time cleaning the area.
 
The Cowpuncher Cabin site is just off Hells Backbone Road 20 miles northeast of the town of Escalante in southern Utah. It’s surrounded by trails, including the Great Western Trail, which offer abundant opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. After the vicinity was cleaned by the Canyon Country Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah, the US Forest Service was able to replace the cabin with a 20-foot diameter yurt.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is dedicated to the responsible use of public lands, which means leaving no trace of your visit – unless you leave it cleaner than you found it, that is! Back Country Horsemen of America encourages all trail users to pack out everything they bring in, keeping our countryside beautiful for all to enjoy.
 
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 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!

Peg Greiwe
1-888-893-5161

2014 Owyhee Fandango

endurance.net/international/USA/2014Fandango/

by Merri Melde
5/25/2014

No matter the size, you've got a good crowd when some of the '-est' guys and gals show up at your endurance rides.

There's not much different about 59,000-mile Dave Rabe since his riding accident back in December of 2012 other than wearing a helmet (a good thing!) - he still wears shorts, he still rides the same couple thousand miles a season, he still rides the same white horse that might have killed him, and he's still the same nicest, Helping-est guy in camp and on the trails.

Need help marking trails? Dave will show up early and help you. Got a problem with your truck or trailer wiring? Dave will help you sort it out. Need Easyboots glued on before the ride? Dave will do it for you. Keep throwing your Easyboot Gloves on trail? Dave will stop to help you get a better fit so you can continue on your ride. Need help unmarking trail? Dave will do that too.

Much of all this in addition to bringing 3 horses to the 3-day Owyhee Fandango, riding 50 miles the first two days, and riding the 100 on Day 3.

This including riding his rogue horse White Cloud on the 100, the horse responsible for his accident, the one he still has to always be alert while riding, since White Cloud will still pull stunts if Dave is not paying complete attention. Why ride such a horse? "Because he's a good horse!"


Since his accident at the Death Valley Encounter in December of 2012, where White Cloud bolted and bucked as Dave was climbing on, once Dave started back on endurance rides (on White Cloud), the pair has completed over 1300 more AERC miles (and plenty more marking trail). The Owyhee Fandango 100 was White Cloud's 9th 100-mile completion, and 7315 AERC miles. His record shows one pull back in 2011. That's why Dave keeps riding this horse with a devilish look in his eye. Dave is now only 1615 miles short of being the High-est-mileage endurance rider ever. It might be White Cloud that gets him there...

Read more here:
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2014Fandango/notes01.html