Over 400 Horse Industry Professionals Already Registered for Time to Ride Challenge

Usefnetwork.com

RELEASE: April 13, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: American Horse Council

Washington, D.C. - The Time to Ride Challenge, offering $100,000 in cash and prizes, has signed up over 400 participants since opening for registration March 1st. Motivated by a desire to grow their businesses while reinvigorating the horse industry, providers have signed on to host beginnerfriendly events between May 30-September 30. The top 10 hosts in three divisions that reach the most newcomers will win cash prizes up to $10,000.

As of April 10th, 403 Hosts from 43 states have registered. They represent stables, instructors, camps, dude ranches, therapeutic riding programs, businesses, veterinarians, rescues, and more.

The Challenge encourages Hosts to provide a variety of fun, beginner-friendly horse experiences. In 2014, the most popular activity offered by Hosts was meeting/petting a horse (84%), followed by riding, grooming, and educational activities. Golden Ridge Stables of Lakeville, MN found huge success with their event on National Night Out, “a well known national event held the first Tuesday in August encouraging neighbors to get to know each other. We offered pony rides on our school horses, a hay ride shuttle to and from a nearby neighborhood, hands-on grooming demonstrations, and fun games like learning to rope, egg and spoon on foot, horseshoes and musical hay bales,” reported owner Ann Hoffman. “This event was a big success for us because it increased our visibility in the community and helped us foster good relations with nearby neighborhoods. We have several new housing developments being built near us so we're trying to capitalize on the building boom by increasing awareness of our lesson program. The goal was to meet new people and we definitely did that!” Hoffman and Golden Ridge Stables were awarded first prize in the “Best Practices” Contest, an additional incentive within the Challenge that rewarded Hosts for sharing their innovative event ideas.

Eighty-one percent of families who attended a 2014 Challenge event were at some point in the process of researching and beginning horse activities, offering a prime opportunity for stables to provide a great first experience and capture new clients. Sixty-eight percent of Hosts saw an immediate positive impact on their business in the form of new contacts and clients, and 94% felt their outreach efforts were well worth the time and effort.

Registration for the Challenge will be open through May 26, 2015. To learn more about the Challenge and other Time to Ride initiatives, please visit www.timetoridechallenge.com or email info@timetoride.com.

Pennsylvania horses win top honors in gaited distance program

NJ.com - Full Article

By Hunterdon County Democrat
on April 10, 2015 at 8:41 AM

Predominio de la Armistad, a Paso Fino, owned by Susan Crawford of York, Pa. was honored by Friends of Sound Horse (FOSH) for the 2014 FOSH Gaited Distance Program.

The FOSH Gaited Distance Program is a Division of the FOSH Gaited Sport Horse that records, recognizes and rewards gaited horses involved in the sports of Competitive Trail Riding, Limited Distance and Endurance Riding. Entrants included the Icelandic Horse, Spotted Saddle Horse, Tennessee Walking Horse, Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Single Footing Horse, Missouri Fox Trotting Horse, Paso Fino and Rocky Mountain Horse. The high mileage award winner was a Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse in the Endurance Division...

Read more here:
http://www.nj.com/horsenews/2015/04/pennsylvania_horses_win_top_ho.html

Moab Through the Ears of Four Horses

Horse-canada.com - Full Article

April 9 2015
Desk to Derby Blog

The plane bucked and twisted as I clutched the arm rests, refusing to look out the window at the canyons below. My skin was pale and sticky as I tried my best not to hurl up the Mexican fiesta I’d downed at the Salt Lake City airport. I was on a 20-seater plane headed to Moab and regretting my decision to not just take the few hours to drive myself to the middle of Utah’s desert region.

The ginger-bearded guy next to me smirked. I glanced at the inked sleeves – roses, checkered flags, skulls – that danced across his weathered forearms. He was wearing a faded Jack Daniels tee and I caught a whiff of stale liquor. I clenched the arm rests tighter and tried harder not to hurl.

“Doesn’t look like you’re headed to Moab for the Jeep festival,” he said, eyeing me up and down.

“Nope.”

“Well?”

“I’m going to ride horses,” I said.

It sounds weird, but I hate explaining what I do to people who don’t ‘get’ horses. If I say I’m going to ride a horse they think I’m a jockey, or a cowgirl. It’s even more complicated now if people pry and I have to try to explain to them I’m training to race 1,000 kilometres across Mongolia.

“My ex wife rides horses,” he said, with a hint of disgust. “She loved them horses more than she loved me.”

Thankfully the ghost of his ex-wife dead-ended our conversation and I could focus back on avoiding barfing.

When the plane finally bounced onto the tarmac 20 minutes later, I was the first one down the stairs and on solid ground. Stepping outside the one-room Moab airport was like climbing into one of those hot air hand dryers. The wind was strong and the sun baked cracks in the red earth. A tumbleweed skittered by. In the distance snow capped mountain peaks rose up above the red rock and desolate flatlands littered with sagebrush. The nausea was receding and it was my turn to smirk. In that second, I knew I’d found my training grounds for Mongolia.

For the next five days I’d stay with Christoph Schork and Dian Woodward at Global Endurance Training Center...

Read more here:
http://www.horse-canada.com/desk-to-derby/moab-through-the-ears-of-four-horses/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=moab-through-the-ears-of-four-horses

Virginia's MRNRA Facing Supervisor Closure Order

Change.org petition

The Forest Service intends to implement a “Supervisor Closure Order” for 200 miles of historic trails located in the East End of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in southwest Virgina.

The Mount Rogers Trail Advocates' Coalition has initiated a petition to :
1. Eliminate the “Supervisor Closure Order” from the Forest Service plan.
2. Preserve the current 200 miles of historic trails they intend to close in the East End of the MRNRA.

The “Supervisor Closure Order” would result in tickets and fines for citizens riding on any part of the forest not designated as an official trail. "Not only will this action restrict our personal freedoms, it will have a negative impact on the economy at all levels, on the environment, and on the health and wellness of the very citizens that make our country strong," the Coalition says.

To sign the petition, see:
https://www.change.org/p/united-states-forest-service-1-eliminate-the-supervisor-closure-order-from-the-forest-service-plan-2-preserve-the-current-200-miles-of-historic-trails-they-intend-to-close-in-the-east-end-of-the-mrnra?recruiter=66262644&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=share_facebook_responsive&utm_term=mob-xs-share_petition-custom_msg

Time to Ride Challenge returns in 2015 with $100,000 cash and prizes

By Hunterdon County Democrat
April 07

The Time to Ride Challenge returns in 2015 as a grassroots campaign to grow the horse industry by introducing new enthusiasts to horse activities. The Challenge, taking place May 30 to Sept. 30, offers a unique opportunity for horse professionals to grow their business while competing for $100,000 in cash and prizes. In 2014, its inaugural year, the Challenge provided more than 25,000 people with first-time horse experiences through 702 beginner-friendly Time to Ride Hosts in 49 states.

Registration for the Challenge at www.timetoridechallenge.com and is open to stables, clubs, veterinarians, feed stores, businesses, and organizations dedicated to welcoming newcomers to horse activities. "Hosts" are organized into Small, Medium, and Large divisions and are encouraged to be creative in providing fun, safe, and educational horse events that encourage attendees to become further involved in horse activities.

The Hosts who provide the greatest number of newcomers an introductory horse experience, as calculated by contact information collected, will win awards. A post-Challenge survey in 2014 found that 92% of the 25,281 newcomers who attended a Time to Ride event said they wanted to participate in more horse activities.

[Read more ...]

Just moseying along, for 5,000 miles

AZCentral.com - Full Story

Amy B Wang, The Republic | azcentral.com
April 6, 2015

Canadian Len Crow wanted to help fund orphanages, so he decided to ride horseback from Alaska to Mexico. Six times.

For the last 10 months, neither snow nor rain nor heat nor torn rotator cuff has stayed rancher and pastor Len Crow from his goal: to ride 6,800 miles on horseback from the edge of the Arctic Ocean to Guadalajara, Mexico.

This is Crow's sixth such "endurance" horseback ride for charity. The 61-year-old Canadian is using the trip to raise money to build five orphanages, one each in Cambodia, Guatemala, India, Mexico and the Philippines.

Crow began his journey on June 6, 2014, departing from — of all places — Deadhorse, Alaska. He'll admit it was not the most auspiciously named starting point, but the map left him no choice.

"I wanted to go as far north in North America as I could by road," Crow said. "That was as far as I could get. We chose that as our beginning point."

By the time he pulled into Eagar, Ariz., last week, Crow had ridden about 5,400 miles. He has 1,400 to go...

Read more here:
http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2015/04/06/len-crow-missions-endurance-horseback-charity-arizona/25386383/

AERC Trails and Land Management Committee announces a new Trails Email forum

The objective of the AERC Trails and Land Management Committee is to work with the AERC membership and other concerned equestrian trail users to develop a popular trails advocacy web environment. AERC is dedicated to the riding of historic trails and encouraging the establishment, preservation and maintenance of all trails on both public and private lands.

In an effort to expand AERC's trail advocacy reach, the committee has created a Trails Email Forum for AERC members. The forum is for members interested in all things trails to share trail story’s, ideas, experiences, advice, and general brain storming. This forum will stay positive and constructive.

Please contact Monica Chapman AERC Trails Committee Chair to join the list.

For more information on the AERC Trails committee visit the AERC.org website.

Hot Stuff: Endurance Rider Gives Back

April 6 2015
by Merri Melde-Endurance.net

Ann Kuck of Star, Idaho, discovered the sport of endurance riding in 2005 from the back of her big bay molly mule, Lamplighter Hot Stuff, whom she'd gotten as a yearling. 'Stuffy' was out of a quarter horse mare and a mammoth jack. "She was a pretty big girl - a bit over 15 hands," says Ann. "I quit measuring her when she turned three because it was getting too scary to know how far off the ground I was sitting (and how far it was to fall)."

Ann and her big girl shared the joys of 1280 miles of endurance trails over 8 seasons in the Northwest - and then something went wrong. Hot Stuff's bone marrow had stopped producing red blood cells in July of 2013. "There was nothing we could do to cure the condition that she had, and it could not be managed in a way that would keep her comfortable," Ann says; and tragically, she had to say goodbye to her 23-year-old partner.

A member of AERC (American Endurance Ride Conference), and SWIT&DR (Southwest Idaho Trail and Distance Riders) since 2005, and Vice-President of SWIT&DR for the last 3 years, Ann had been trying to think of new ways to encourage new riders, who might not know about endurance, to come to some rides and see what endurance is all about. Most Idaho endurance rides offer welcoming Trail Rides (distances of 10 to 15 miles), so that 'newbies' and their horses get to experience the flavor of endurance riding - from the camping with their horse in Ridecamp, the commotion of horses and riders coming and going different distances and different directions throughout the day, following marked trails, going through a vet check, and of course enjoying the camaraderie, dinners, and awards afterwards.

"Most new folks probably won't just enter a Limited Distance or Endurance ride to start with, but maybe they would enjoy a trail ride," Ann comments. "I decided to fund the 'Hot Stuff Memorial Trail Rider Encouragement Fund' to see if we can nudge folks into coming out to explore the places that we enjoy, and to meet others who ride endurance, LD or trail rides. I am hoping that, if we can help with some of the expense, we can encourage more new people to join in on all our fun."

This year in the SWIT&DR rides, Ann is subsidizing the ride registrations for trail riders with $10.00, up to 10 riders (total of $100.00). Ann would like to give priority to new trail riders, but, she said, "I really don't care who does a trail ride. The subsidy can be used by any trail rider."

At the first Northwest ride of the 2015 season, the Owyhee Tough Sucker I in Oreana, Idaho, on April 4, "We had four new trail riders!" Ann reports. "I know that two of the new trail riders are from The Western Riding Club and they had a great time. They were planning to attend their monthly WRC meeting [the same evening,] and I hope they gave a great report." The Western Riding Club of Idaho calls itself the "Oldest Family Riding Club in Idaho," and the group convenes to take on trail challenges, day and overnight rides, poker rides, parades, playdays, and more.

Ann is excited to be able to give back to the sport in which she shared so many wonderful memories looking down the trails through Hot Stuff's big ears. Part of Ann's family is gone now, but with her generous offer to new riders, the memories live on.

Back Country Horsemen of America Works to Benefit All Trail Users

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2015

by Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
Back Country Horsemen of America protects our right to ride horses on public lands in a wide variety of ways across the country. They believe in putting a priority on the things that really matter, such as making our beautiful landscape accessible to all users and developing partnerships that help us accomplish that. BCH folks know there’s value in lending a hand, even on projects that don’t directly benefit horse users.
 
Building Relationships
 
Sometimes building relationships means pitching in even if you have to leave your horses at home. The Uinta Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah have been looking for ways to get involved with trail work in Dinosaur National Monument. This National Park Service property along the Colorado and Utah border consists of 210,000 acres of river canyons, mountains, and basins that support over a thousand different native species of plants and animals. The Utah side also boasts dinosaur fossils and the world renowned Carnegie Fossil Quarry.
 
Although horseback riding is not yet allowed in Dinosaur National Monument, the Uinta Basin Chapter BCH contacted the land managers to offer their assistance with trail maintenance. Because of Back Country Horsemen of America’s reputation, they were told a face-to-face meeting was not necessary and were asked to help with work on a hiking trail. Uinta Chapter Back Country Horsemen members met with hikers, youth volunteers, and NPS em­ployees to build rock cairns and a rock stair step on the busy Sound of Silence hiking trail.
 
After a long work day, BCH members discussed with the land managers the possibility of a horse trail in Dinosaur National Monument and were invited to meet formally for further discussion. Lending a hand where it’s needed, regardless of personal interests, builds a rapport that benefits everyone. The Uinta Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah will continue nurturing this relationship, making a way for us to enjoy this stunning landscape by horseback.
 
Preserving History
 
Back Country Horsemen of America values our country’s past and welcomes opportunities to preserve it. Managers of the Salmon-Challis National Forest recently began restoration of the Norton Ridge Lookout in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This abandoned cabin sits on an open mountaintop at nearly 8500 feet elevation. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 to house fire spotters, it is eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
 
The Treasure Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho eagerly participated in the project which was carried out under the super­vision of Archaeologist John Rose from the Challis office of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Their purpose was to begin the restoration work necessary to maintain the cabin’s historical value and for the use and enjoyment of the structure by the US Forest Service and the public.
 
Treasure Valley Chapter BCH’s first task was to pack in wood shingles to be stored inside the cabin for re-roof­ing at a future date. They trucked their horses and equipment seven hours to the trailhead at Meyer’s Cove. From there, they rode and led their pack animals 14 miles along Camas Creek to the spot where it flows into the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The next day the group rode 11 miles upstream along the Middle Fork River to the Sim­plot Ranch and airstrip, where the shingles were delivered by plane.
 
At this point, it was learned that the 11 mile trail from the airstrip to the cabin had not been cleared. Most of the TVBCH group spent four days clearing the trail and packing the shingles up to the cabin. It took another two days to pack out to the trailhead and return home. Despite the long trip and various challenges, the Treasure Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen enjoyed taking part in an important historic project.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in wilderness and public lands.
 
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.bcha.org; 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
Peg@bcha.org

60th Anniversary Tevis Cup Entries are Available

April 2 2015

With just over 17 weeks till the 60th annual Tevis Cup on August 1, entries are available here.

The $400.00 fee includes drug testing, Robie Park camping, and one ticket to the Sunday Awards Banquet. Complete pages 1-4 of the application. Award buckle is $160.00 when reserved pre-ride and is nonrefundable. Buckles are $250 when purchased post ride. Due to low inventory of donated buckles from riders who have previously completed the Tevis, the Legacy Buckle Program will not be offered for 2015. We sincerely hope that the program can be reinstituted in future years when our “recycled” buckle inventory is sufficient to support the demand for this highly successful and much appreciated program.

Signature ride entries are available for $1500, and include a traditional ride entry plus a generous donation to the Western States Trail Foundation. The entry package includes a buckle upon completion of the ride, a commissioned print by Chuck Centers specially created for the WSTF which is shown on the signature entry form, an invitation for 2 to the VIP/Foreign Rider dinner, 2 tickets to the Wednesday evening barbecue, 2 tickets to the Robie Park Friday night dinner, reserved seating and 2 tickets to the Sunday Awards Banquet, 4 nights of stabling for your horse, and additional items. The Signature Rider also receives CalStar helicopter insurance for a year, parking assistance at the Robie Park ride camp and Foresthill vet check.

For complete entry information and forms, see
http://teviscup.org/images/2015/2015_Tevis_Entry_1-31-15.pdf

45 earlybird riders have already signed up, including foreign riders from Canada, Australia, and Guatemala:
http://teviscup.org/tevis-2015/tevis-rider-list-2

April 1 Deadline for National Recognition of your Trail Project

Coalition for Recreational Trails
ANNUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS


Awards for projects funded through the federal Recreational Trails Program of the Federal Highway Administration
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2015

The Coalition for Recreational Trails, a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, is pleased to announce its 2015 achievement awards to recognize outstanding trail projects funded by the national Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The awards will be presented in Washington, D.C. during Great Outdoors Month™ in June 2015 as part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to build awareness and appreciation of this highly successful program, which has greatly enhanced the quantity and quality of trail experiences available to the public. We will be holding the awards ceremony on Capitol Hill and will encourage Members of Congress to join us in honoring the outstanding achievements of their constituents.
As an additional benefit, American Trails makes a web page for each winning project. See the over 100 award pages we have created since 2003. We hope you will join us in this important effort to recognize the significant contributions to our nationwide system of trails and greenways that the Recreational Trails Program is supporting all across the country

Awards are given in several categories:
• Maintenance and Rehabilitation – maintaining, repairing damage to, or upgrading the quality of a trail to improve the trail experience, increase user safety, and/or enhance protection of the environment, including wildlife
• Construction and Design – planning and building a trail, portions of a trail (e.g., a bridge), or trail-related facilities (e.g., a trailhead, shelter, etc.)
• Public-Private Partnerships and Access to/Use of Public Lands – facilitating and/or encouraging cost-effective partnerships between public and private entities, especially to increase access to and use of federal, state and local public lands, including parks, forests and wildlife refuges
• Community Linkage – providing and/or enhancing opportunities for trail-based recreation and transportation within or near local communities
• Education and Communication – using a variety of established and/or technologically innovative communications tools (e.g., web sites, social media and peer-to-peer information sharing) to increase environmental awareness, promote trail-related safety, encourage trail-related outdoor recreation and, overall, enhance trail use and enjoyment
• Multiple-Use Management & Corridor Sharing – facilitating and/or encouraging the use of a trail corridor by more than one type of trail enthusiast, particularly those enthusiasts that do not ordinarily share trails or trail-related facilities
• Accessibility Enhancement – facilitating and/or encouraging increased access to trail-related recreation opportunities for people with disabilities
• Youth Conservation/Service Corps and Community Outreach – making effective use of the services and skills of qualified youth conservation or service corps and other community organizations as project partners and supporters

NOMINATING A PROJECT
Award winners will be selected from projects nominated by public agencies, trail administrators or other project sponsors. Projects must be completed in order to receive an award. In addition, projects completed before 2007 are ineligible.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2015. The nomination form and any supporting materials, including pictures, should be returned via e-mail by April 1, 2015 to the Chair of the Coalition’s Awards Committee: Duane Taylor, Director of Federal Affairs, Motorcycle Industry Council, at coalitionforrectrails@gmail.com. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call him at (703) 416-0444 or send him an e-mail. Winners should be notified no later than May 8, 2015.

The 2015 nomination form can be found on this page:
http://www.americantrails.org/awards/CRTawards.html

2015 Trails4Transplants Ride being organized

Page1publications.com - Full Article

March 30 2015

I have heard a phrase that says “There are horse people and then there are other people.” Riding horses certainly seems to set this group apart.

We ride for a noble cause! Trails4Transplants is a long-distance, multiple week long trail ride, organized to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation, alleviate major health issues by simply raising awareness for the immense needs of organ donation and promote donor registration.

Proceeds go to the Gift of Life Transplant House in Rochester, MN, which is a facility where organ recipients and their families can stay at a reduced cost while awaiting or following a life-saving organ or tissue transplant.

The organization urges everyone to give the gift of life and register to be a donor today at donatelife.net/register-now/.

It was this need that prompted the Hilles and the Petersons from Warren to organize a long distance trail ride called Trails4Transplants. Both couples have had experiences with organ transplants, but in very different ways.

Roger Hille was inspired by a success story, saying, "My son-in-law, Dave, received a liver transplant in 1998 when he was 26 years old. He went on to marry my daughter and have two children. Without the gift of organ donation, I would not have my precious grandchildren..."

Read more here:
http://www.page1publications.com/94197/1811/03272015nstar

At 84, he's not just any old Ironman

Telegraph.co.uk - Full Article

by Theo Merz
8:29AM GMT 25 Mar 2015

You swim for 2.4 miles, then you cycle for 112 miles. Then you run a marathon. Often in the heat, sometimes with the wind against you.

Even the idea of the Ironman triathlon – which is held all around the world and widely considered to be among the toughest endurance races going – is enough to make most men in their twenties quake.

And yet Lew Hollander, an 84-year-old from Oregon, USA, is now preparing for his 59th such race – and gearing up to break the Guinness World Record for oldest competitor, which he set himself at the age of 82.

“Use it or lose it,” Hollander says when asked the secret of his longevity. “Don’t say, ‘Ow, my knee hurts’. If you get out and use it, your body will tend to make it better again...”

Read more here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/active/11492579/At-84-hes-not-just-any-old-Ironman.html

Back Country Horsemen of California Clears Storm Damage in the Sierra Mountains

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2015
 
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
The folks at Back Country Horsemen of America feel very fortunate to live in such a beautiful country, and are dedicated to protecting our right to travel this stunning landscape by horseback, as our ancestors did. An important part of that goal is the down and dirty labor required to re-open trails and access roads after storms of rain, snow, ice, and wind.
 
A Special Place
 
A storm with winds in excess of 140 mph hit the Sierra Mountains in November 2013, leaving many popular campgrounds and trails inaccessible due to toppled trees. Since then, various groups have made cleanup efforts in the affected area.
 
The Mother Lode Unit of Back Country Horsemen of California spent two days in the Eldorado National Forest opening up trails around the Tells Creek Horse Camp, which is nestled among the pristine lakes of the Crystal Basin at 6,300 feet above sea level.
 
From there, adventurers on foot, horseback, mountain bikes, skis or snowshoes explore the local land that was the Van Vleck cattle ranch from the 1860s to the 1960s. Some also take longer trips into the Desolation Wilderness, 63,960 acres of alpine forest, granite peaks, and glacially-formed valleys and lakes.
 
A Big Job
 
BCHC’s first work day began with a mandatory safety briefing, then the volunteer sawyers, trained by the US Forest Service, and their helpers began work on a two-mile section of the Two Peaks Trail from the Tells Creek Horse Camp to the Bassi Creek crossing. The most experienced crewmember commented that this was the worst storm damage he’d seen in 18 years of trail maintenance.
 
Leapfrog Isn’t Just a Game
 
Seven workers each rode a saddle horse and four pack animals hauled an assort­ment of chainsaws, axes, shovels, and other equipment, including a Peavey pry bar. This odd apparatus looks like a five-foot pry bar with a hinged fish hook near the end, which enables a single person to roll large, heavy log segments off the trail without back strain.
 
The Mother Lode Back Country Horsemen work group separated into two teams and used the very effective leapfrog technique. The first team unpacked and cut the first obstacle. While they cleared the area of debris and repacked the gear, the second team proceeded to the second obstacle, unpacked and cut that one.
 
Teams of three or four people makes quick work of the task without members getting in each other’s way. Working in shifts also allows teams to last a bit longer at this exhausting elevation. If they en­countered a nest of tangled logs, the two teams took turns cutting and removing debris.
 
Up to the Challenge
 
The Mother Lode Unit spent six hours clearing about three dozen trees from two miles of trail. After watering their stock at the Bassi Creek crossing, the return trip took only 45 minutes on the now open track. The next morning, the group crossed Bassi Creek and cleared about 20 trees from the next part of the Two Peaks Trail. There they met up with another work party who had cleared trails around Barrett Lake and Pearl Lake on the far side of the summit of Two Peaks East.
 
The job is tough, but projects like this are essential to preserving our access to America’s wild places. Back Country Horsemen groups from coast to coast routinely spend over 300,000 volunteer hours each year maintaining trails, trail heads, and camps for all users.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in 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

National Forest Trail Bill Introduced

Horsecouncil.org

Submitted by admin on Wed, 02/11/2015 - 14:01

On February 10, 2015, Congresswomen Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Tim Walz (D-MN) re-introduced the National Forest Service Trail Stewardship Act of 2015 (H.R.845). The bill would direct the Forest Service to take several actions to help address the current trail maintenance backlog that is adversely impacting all trail users on many national forests, including equestrians. The bill was first introduced during the last Congress. The American Horse Council, Backcountry Horsemen of America, and the Wilderness Society were significantly involved in the creation of this bill.

A June 2013, study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the Forest Service has deferred trail maintenance needs that exceed half-billion dollars, and only one-quarter of the agency’s 158,000 miles of trails meets agency standards for maintenance. This maintenance backlog is causing access and safety issues for equestrians and all trail users on national forests.

The National Forest Service Trail Stewardship Act would direct the Forest Service to develop a strategy to more effectively utilize volunteers and partners to assist in maintaining national forest trails. It will also provide outfitters and guides the ability to perform trail maintenance activities in lieu of permit fees. Additionally, the bill would address a liability issue that has discouraged some national forests from utilizing volunteers and partner organizations to help perform trail maintenance and would direct the Forest Service to identify and prioritize specific areas with the greatest need for trail maintenance in the national forest system.

In the current fiscal environment it is unlikely Congress will appropriate additional funds to directly address the trail maintenance backlog. This bill will help improve trail maintenance without the need for additional funding.

The bill is supported by the AHC and many other recreation organizations.

Equine Land Conservation - Planning and Zoning Webinar and On-line Guide

The Basics of Planning and Zoning for Horse-Friendly Communities

Date: March 24, 2015
Speaker: Christine Hughes, AICP Senior Long Range Planner, City of Wilmington Planning, Development, & Transportation.

ELCR and My Horse University are partnering to bring you this informative webinar. Local governments of all shapes and sizes are using planning and zoning tools in their communities. This webinar will discuss the basics of planning and zoning, and will cover the tools of zoning codes and the comprehensive plan. In plain terms, learn how to understand what your property is zoned, how to get involved in the planning process, and what to look for relative to horse-friendly plans and regulations. Click here to register.

Planning and Zoning Guide for Horse Friendly Communities Now Available On-Line - click here

Planning and zoning decisions can affect how land is taxed, what it may be used for, and which standards and regulations are applied to it. These regulations determine not only whether individuals may keep horses on their own property, but also whether horses have access to community parks and trails.

Since land is saved locally it is vital that horsemen understand the basics of planning and zoning and how this impacts horse keeping, breeding, competing and recreating, as well as equine related businesses in their communities, in order to retain access to horses and enjoy their benefits.

The Planning and Zoning Guide for Horse-Friendly Communities is an important comprehensive resource for horsemen providing users with the tools they need to understand comprehensive planning, land use mapping, zoning ordinances, and the effects of these on horse keeping and other horse-related activitie s within their own local communities. The information will help them to be engaged in the process, to activate their equine community and to educate planners and decision makers on the benefits of horses in their communities.

National Recognition For Your Trails Project

DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Coalition for Recreational Trails ANNUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Awards for projects funded through the federal Recreational Trails Program of the Federal Highway Administration

Has your trail received funding through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP)?

Here is a great opportunity for national recognition that also helps all of us make the case for continued funding for trails!

Learn more about the Coalition for Recreational Trails Annual Achievement Awards and download the Nomination Form...

March's Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning with Karen Chaton

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen!

March 10 2015

Endurance Day with Karen Chaton opens with yet another camping with horses adventure story. Guests include Natasha Willemse with Pandora Saddles and Wayne Woolway talks about starting out in Endurance as an adult. Listen in...

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-03-10-2015-endurance-day-with-karen-chaton-high-tech-pandora-saddles-wayne-woolway-jack-daniels/

$100,000 Time to Ride Challenge Now Open for Registration

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: March 11, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: American Horse Council

Washington, D.C. - Registration is now open at www.timetoride.com for the 2015 Time to Ride Challenge, a grassroots campaign offering $100,000 cash and prizes to horse professionals to grow the horse industry by introducing people to horses through beginner­ friendly horse experiences.

Entrants will organize Time to Ride Challenge events to take place from May 30 ­ September 30, 2015 and offer a unique opportunity for stables, horse clubs, veterinarians, feed stores, businesses and organizations to welcome new participants to horse activities. Event “Hosts” are organized into Small, Medium and Large divisions and are encouraged to be creative in providing fun, safe and educational horse events that encourage attendees to become further involved in riding and other horse activities. The Hosts who provide an introductory experience to the greatest number of newcomers, determined by contact information collected, will win cash awards.

Last year’s winner of the Small Division and the $10,000 cash prize was 16 Acres Equine Educational Complex of Union Grove, Wisconsin. “Time to Ride paid me to market myself. The Challenge has opened doors,” said Jody Halladay, owner. 16 Acres Equine Educational Complex reached hundreds of newcomers at a time by participating in many community events such as “Dairy Days” at a local farm, farmers’ markets, festivals, storytelling times, and community gatherings at children’s activity centers. When speaking of her delight in winning the cash prize, Halladay states, “it’s done more than just get us a new barn roof. We are going to be running the educational booth at the county fair next year; our lesson program has grown… things have come our way because of this!” In 2014, 16 Acres shared the joy of horses with 2,840 newcomers.

Statistics show that current horse owners are an aging population and that moms with children hold the greatest potential for campaigns such as the Time to Ride Challenge. Many of the stables that participated in the 2014 Challenge held events that introduced children to horses and offered parents information on how to get their families involved in riding. A post­ Challenge survey revealed that 92% of the 25,281 newcomers who participated in a Time to Ride event said they wanted to participate in more horse activities.Challenge updates for 2015 include more cash prizes, with grand prize winners in each division receiving $10,000, and cash awards given through tenth place. The completely redesigned and user ­friendly website is now accessible at www.timetoridechallenge.com. Hosts will receive free marketing resources including a toolkit, an event idea guide, customizable ads and posters, media templates and more.

Registration for the 2015 Challenge will be open until May 26, 2015. To learn more about the Time to Ride Challenge, please visit www.timetoridechallenge.com or email info@timetoride.com.

AERC Board of Directors Convention Wrap Up

2015 Convention Summary of AERC BoD meetings

The American Endurance Ride Conference held its annual convention March 5-8 in Reno, Nevada. I don’t have official attendance numbers, but I’m confident that attendance was higher than last year. In particular, the tack sale area had more saddles and other goodies than I have seen in years. I managed to snag copies of out of print Walter Farley books (remember how we all got started on horses as kids reading the Black Stallion series?).

At the Thursday Board of Directors (BoD) meeting, the Board approved changes to the deadlines for Special Sanctioning requests; the time requirements are shorter now with improved electronic communication. The Board and attending members were introduced to our new Marketing Director, Candace FitzGerald. John Parke provided a briefing on our insurance and also reviewed Board functions and obligations for new Board members. I have heard John give this lecture many times and I always look forward to it and learn from it. The Board also had extended discussions of AERC concerns regarding FEI endurance competition in the UAE. Valery Kanavy (USEF Technical Committee) and Dr. Dwight Hooten (USEF Veterinary Committee) graciously provided insights from their years of experience with international competition. Further discussion was deferred to the Sunday meeting (see below).

Throughout the day, on Friday and Saturday, various AERC committees held their meetings and a variety of seminars were offered on Body Condition Scoring, conducting a clinic for new riders, protecting trail access, equine gastric ulcers, veterinary analysis of the horse’s back, promoting longevity in endurance horses, nutrition for endurance horses and presenting your horse for the Best Condition award at rides.

On both days, John Parke (assisted by his Great Pyrenees, Biscuit) conducted his Hot Topics; Friday on problems in the international endurance competition, especially re: the UAE, and Saturday on developing new members. John always does an excellent job at eliciting the ideas of members and maintaining a constructive dialog.
Friday evening, John Parke hosted the Regional Awards ceremony, again assisted by Biscuit. John made the evening fun for everyone so that all awardees felt deservedly special for their accomplishments. Following the awards, members enjoyed music and dancing.

The Saturday BoD meeting opened with a State of the Conference update by President Michael Campbell. New members, Christoph Schork, Kevin Waters, and Tom Bache, were sworn in and appreciation for their service extended to departing members, Bruce Weary, Rusty Toth and Leslie Anderson. Officers were elected/re-elected: President Michael Campbell, Vice President Lisa Schneider, Secretary Susan Garlinghouse (replacing Monica Chapman) and Treasurer Mollie Krumlaw-Smith. The Board then heard comments/feedback from the members in attendance. The comments included concerns about the reporting of equine fatalities, equine health insurance, ride insurance, forming chapters of AERC, developing plans of succession for retiring ride managers, adjusting ride time for difficult terrain, and requests that AERC not “dumb down” ride standards by making the sport easier.
Saturday evening was the National Awards ceremony and banquet featuring Masters of Ceremony John Parke and Bruce Weary assisted by Susan Garlinghouse in her “Vanna White” role. I won’t list all the winners here, but they will be published on the website and in Endurance News.

Sunday morning, the Board, and a few die hard members, met for a marathon discussion of several important issues. Our new Marketing Director, Candace FitzGerald, presented her plan for promoting AERC throughout the coming year. Committee chairs for several committees were approved. The Strategic Plan for AERC’s future growth and development was presented by John Parke and approved by the Board. Progress on the development of the Supporting Organization for AERC was also presented by John Parke. The Budget for 2015 was presented by Treasurer Mollie Krumlaw-Smith and approved by the Board. Vice President Lisa Schneider and Board Member Mike Maul presented the new web site to be installed in the near future. The Board voted to approve Special Sanctioning for two rides. AERC-I, AERC’s international committee, sent the Board a report re: the 2016 World Equestrian Championship (WEC) scheduled for Dubai. The committee recommended that AERC withhold support for that location due to UAE violations of FEI rules re: horse welfare and fair play. The Board discussed concerns about FEI competition in the UAE, especially the scheduled 2016 WEC in Dubai. The Board voted to send USEF (our National Federation) AERC’s insistence that FEI open for bids the location of the 2016 WEC and disallow any bid from the UAE. If no acceptable bids are received, AERC expects FEI to cancel the 2016 WEC rather than hold it in the UAE. A letter from AERC to USEF to this effect is being prepared and will go out this week.

This was one of the most productive and successful conventions that I have attended. Special thanks are owed by us all to AERC staff: Executive Director Kathleen Henkel, Troy Smith, Kyra and, especially, Kathleen’s husband, Lary, and her sisters and their families for organizing and staffing the many functions necessary for a successful convention. With Kathleen, we get a lot of bang for our buck.

American Endurance Ride Conference Names 2014 Honorees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RENO, Nevada – March 10, 2015 – In a sport where simply crossing the finish line takes determination and grit, earning Hall of Fame honors in the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) is reserved for those riders and equines with true tenacity. Endurance enthusiasts from all over the country gathered this weekend in Reno to attend the AERC Annual Conference and national awards banquet where Pat Oliva, 78, was named AERC’s Hall of Fame person. Pat has been competing in endurance riding for more than 40 years, with a 21,495 lifetime miles on rides of 50 miles or longer. An inspiration to all who know her, the Woodbine, Maryland, septuagenarian completed 575 miles of endurance competition in 2014.

Introduced by one of the many riders Pat has mentored over the years, AERC Board Member Skip Kemerer, Pat took to the stage with her characteristic modesty and good humor. “I want you to know that it’s because of all of you that I’m still riding,” she said. “We race each other but in the afternoon, when the ride is over, we’re all friends.” Upon accepting her award, Pat encouraged her fellow endurance riders to “pass that kindness on to others.” Known for her loud and frequent laugh, Pat rode the first-ever Old Dominion endurance ride, back in 1974, as well as the 40th anniversary ride in 2014. Her main mount over the past year has been Colonel Pepper, an 18-year-old bay Arabian gelding.

AERC’s Hall of Fame horse for 2014 is MRR Pyro (“Murphy”), owned by Karen Fredrickson of Kneeland, California. Murphy is a ranch horse who just happens to have captured just about every honor an equine can earn in AERC: Decade Team (10 years of competition with a single rider), Perfect Ten (10,000 miles, 10 years of competition, 10 first place wins, 10 Best Condition wins), and the Pard’ners Award, for the ultimate in sportsmanship and team partnership, with his human counterpart.

Murphy, 18, has a 97% completion rate, remarkable in a sport where so much can happen over 50 miles of competition out on trails in the wilderness. Karen accepted the award for Murphy, calling him her “once-in-a-lifetime horse” and said he was the personification of all the horses in children’s stories, cowboy tales and Disney movies you could imagine.

American Endurance Ride Conference Names 2014 Honorees 2-2-2-2

The organization’s Pard’ners Award went to Ron Barrett and Rafuro HCC. With 132 finishes out of 134 starts, the duo teamed up to compete for 19 seasons before Raf retired in 2006. To date, Ron has completed 11,200 AERC miles and Raf retired with 7,380 miles.

Gail Williams of Zillah, Washington, won the Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award for her trail building (and re-building) work in endurance riding’s Northwest Region. The Anne Ayala Junior Scholarship went to young rider Starla Dale of Murrieta, California.

Members of the nonprofit American Endurance Ride Conference, which sanctions distance rides of 25 to 100 miles, will again gather for their annual awards presentations next March in Reno, Nevada. More information on endurance riding is available by visiting www.aerc.org or by calling the AERC office at 823-2260. By request, the office will send out a free information packet to prospective members.

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

National AERC Award Winners for 2014 Announced

March 8 2015

At the annual AERC Convention last night in Reno, Nevada, the new AERC Hall of Fame recipients were announced in front of a festive dinner crowd.

Pat Oliva from Maryland in the Northeast region was named the 2014 Hall of Fame Person. Pat has well over 21,000 endurance miles and is known for her good humor and for helping people along the way. "If you can't take the time to stop and help somebody. you don't belong in this sport," she said in her acceptance speech.

MRR Pyro, owned and ridden by Karen Fredrickson from the West region was named the 2014 Hall of Fame Horse. With over 10,400 miles, "Murph" and Karen won the 2011 Pard'ners Award. Endurance isn't his only career, said Dr Dave Nicholson who presented the award. He's also "just an ol' ranch horse," who's put on plenty of miles over the years in that aspect.

2014 Pard'ners Award went to Ron Barrett from the Southwest region and Rafuro HCC. With over 7400 miles on his record, "Raff" is 35 years old now and "he could still outrun me," Barrett said in his acceptance speech.

Gail Williams from the Northwest region was surprised with the Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award. Aarene Storms presented the award.

More National Awards will be found on the AERC website.

More updates from the weekend convention can be found here: http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2015AERC/

Slight Redesign of This Year's Tevis Buckle

A minimally redesigned 60th anniversary Tevis buckle will be available for those horse-and-rider teams who complete the 60th anniversary running of the Western States Trail Ride on August 1st, 2015.

According to Tevis Ride Director President Chuck Stalley, "We have drafted, and the BOG has approved, a slight redesign of the award buckle to include "60th Anniversary" on the top banner in the location where "Award" usually sits.

"Pending final negotiations with our buckle production company, this will become reality for our ride finishers in August. Stay tuned for confirmation of news on the special buckle for this year's ride. It will be beautiful either way."

For more information on the 60th anniversary ride or for an entry form, see
Teviscup.org

AERC Convention HOT TOPICS Session Heating Up

AERC.org

March 2 2015

Due to the current raging debates and controversies on multiple forums and discussion groups world-wide over the Middle East racing debacles and the passions that proposed solutions have raised, AERC Convention Hot Topics are getting hotter!

John Parke has announced that the Friday morning Hot Topic seminar, from 7:30 - 8:45 AM, will now be: “How Should the AERC Respond to Horse Welfare Issues in International Endurance Riding?”

It's an opportunity for your voices to be heard. Please attend, listen, discuss, and learn!

FOSH Announces 2014 Gaited Distance Award Winners

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2015
 
Friends of Sound Horse (FOSH) is pleased to announce the Award winners for the 2014 FOSH Gaited Distance Program.  The FOSH Gaited Distance Program is a Division of the FOSH Gaited Sport Horse that records, recognizes and rewards gaited horses involved in the sports of Competitive Trail Riding, Limited Distance and Endurance Riding.  Entrants included the Icelandic Horse, Spotted Saddle Horse, Tennessee Walking Horse, Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Single Footing Horse, Missouri Fox Trotting Horse, Paso Fino and Rocky Mountain Horse.  The high mileage award winner was a Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse in the Endurance Division.    
 
Predominio de la Armistad, a Paso Fino, owned by Susan Crawford of York, PA was the award recipient in the Light Weight Division of the Competitive Trail Category.  The Reserve in this Division was the Paso Fino, Illuvia de la Pluma, also owned by Susan Crawford.
 
Dancer’s American Beauty, a Tennessee Walking Horse owned by Dorothy Foster of Oroville, CA was the winner of the Limited Distance Award in the Lightweight Division.  The reserve in this category was also a Tennessee Walking Horse, Scarlet Ribbons Gold Rush owned by Valerie Lewis Jaffe of Ennis, TX.
 
Mocha Jack, a horse familiar to those in the sport of Endurance repeated his win from 2013 by capturing the Endurance Lightweight Division.  This Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is owned and ridden by Becky Lange of Santa Maria, CA.  The reserve in this Division was also a repeat winner from 2013.  The Tennessee Walking Horse Ebony’s Bravo Moon was reserve in the Lightweight Endurance category.  Owned by Laurie Henschel of Clintonville, WI, he was the 2013 winner of the Limited Distance Award.
 
Champagne Supernova, a Singlefooting horse owned by Laura Horst of Cool, CA was the winner in the Endurance Lightweight Division. 
 
Mocha Jack captured the Overall High Milege Award by logging the greatest number of competitive miles in any Category.  In earning these miles, Mocha Jack had 12 top ten finishes including 1 first, 1 second, 1 third, 2 fourths, and 2 fifths.  This Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse is owned and ridden by Becky Lange.  The Tennessee Walking Horse, Ebony’s Bravo Moon owned by Laurie Henschell was reserve.  Stonewall Saddle Company was the sponsor of the High Mileage Award. 
 
FOSH thanks all gaited horse owners who supported the GOSH Gaited Distance Program in 2014.  We look forward to the 2015 competitive year and the opportunity to recognize and reward gaited horses who compete in the equine sport of Competitive Trail Rides, Limited Distance and Endurance.
 
About FOSH:  Since 1998, FOSH is the only national organization dedicated to the promotion of the sound gaited horse emotionally, mentally and physically; fair competition; and humane training and education regardless of breed or discipline.

Contact Person: Teresa Bippen
tbippen1957@yahoo.com

Applications Now Being Accepted for U.S. Endurance Chef d'Equipe/Technical Advisor Position

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: February 25, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Communications Department

Lexington, Ky. - Following a comprehensive review of the position, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is seeking a U.S. Endurance Chef d'Equipe/Technical Advisor.

The job description and application can be found here.

Individuals interested in serving as the U.S. Endurance Chef d'Equipe/Technical Advisor must submit an application no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

For more information regarding the process of hiring the U.S. Endurance Chef d'Equipe/Technical Advisor contact Kristen Brett at kbrett@usef.org or 859.225.6919.

Endurance Heart Size

Elite endurance horses have bigger hearts than their less successful fellows, according to a recent report in the American Journal of Veterinary Research.

Dr Meg M Sleeper and colleagues examined 34 Arabian endurance horses. Based on their performance in a recent competition, horses were classified as elite (23 horses) and less successful (11).

A standardised ultrasound examination of each horse's heart was carried out…

Read more here:
http://www.equinescienceupdate.com/articles/ehs.html?utm_source=Equine+Science+Update+enews+Jan+2015+%28FREE%29&utm_campaign=CCJan15Free&utm_medium=email

Take the Endurance Riding Survey

February 24 2015

Does the current format of American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) suit your needs and desires? Are there some changes or additions that you feel could enhance your experience or help grow the sport of Endurance Riding in the United States? This will be a Hot Topic discussion at the AERC Convention in Reno, March 6 so let us know your thoughts. All responses to this survey are anonymous.



Or if you like the sport the way it is, please take the time to tell us that too!



This survey is being conducted by www.Endurance.Net and responses will be shared with the AERC Board of Directors, as well as the larger community of Endurance Riders.


Take the survey at:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/AERCEndurance

Tevis Talks Will Feature Clinton Anderson

Teviscup.org

On Thursday evening March 5, 2015, at the Old State Theatre in Auburn, California, Clinton Anderson will be the guest speaker at "Tevis Talks", sponsored by the Western States Trail Foundation.

Australian Clinton Anderson and the Downunder Horsemanship Method have helped thousands of horses and riders. He is committed to inspire the dreams of horsemen and horsewomen everywhere.

No-Host open bar begins at 6 PM; talk hosted by Matt Scribner begins at 7:30 PM. Signature "Gold" tickets are $175; Signature "Silver" tickets are $75; General Admission tickets are $40 in advance or $45 at the door.

Purchase your ticket on-line at the Tevis Store:
http://teviscup.org/the-tevis-store#!/TEVIS-TALKS-with-CLINTON-ANDERSON/c/8511030/offset=0&sort=priceAsc
or call WSTF at 530-823-7282 for more information.

AERC Convention's Trade Show Includes Book Barn

February 20 2015

A "Book Barn" will join the Trade Show vendors at the 2015 AERC Convention in Reno, Nevada, on March 6 and 7. Authors Aarene Storms (Endurance 101), Sharma Gaponoff (Tevis, From the Back of My Horse) and Merri Melde (Soul Deep in Horses: Memoir of an Equestrian Vagabond) will be present to sign their books or CDs and entertain with tall tales of their endurance adventures.

Books by other endurance authors will be available, including Karen Bumgarner (America's Long Distance Challenge II: New Century, New Trails, and More Miles), Leonard Liesens (Endurance: A French Perspective), Dodie Sable (To Finish Is to Win: One Woman's Riding Adventures, and A Day in the Life Of… ), Julie Suhr (…but it wasn't the Horse's Fault), and Steph Teeter (Training and Event Journal - cartoon style).

For more information and to sign up for the Convention, see:
http://www.aerc.org/2015Convention.pdf

AERC Raffle Donation Request

Hooray for AERC's fabulous ride managers! AERC is successful only because of the dedication of all our ride managers.

We are seeking donations of ride entries to include in the AERC convention raffle. These are always sought-after prizes at the popular raffle booth. If your ride is/was before the convention on March 6 & 7 (this year's convention dates), please consider donating an entry to your 2016 ride.

You can send a certificate to the AERC office or just send word by reply e-mail and we will make up a certificate for you with the ride name, date, etc., and your contact information. We'll have the certificates up on the raffle table at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno for all members to check out, and will be handing out flyers listing all the ride managers that have donated entries.

We hope to have lots of ride entries in our raffle! They are a highly-sought after raffle prize by the attendees. Thanks again for your hard work and dedication to the sport.

Please let us know if we may be of any assistance.

The AERC Office Staff -- Kathleen & Troy
American Endurance Ride Conference
P.O. Box 6027, Auburn, CA 95604
866-271-2372
http://www.aerc.org

Reply to Troy at endurancenews@foothill.net

Feb 20 is Last Day for Discounted Seminars at AERC Convention

Have you registered for the 2015 AERC Convention yet?

Tomorrow, Friday February 20, is the last day to register for the AERC Convention Speaker Seminars at the discounted rate. The Convention will be held Friday and Saturday, March 6 and 7 in Reno, Nevada. Email your registration forms on or before February 20 for the discount. After February 20, all registrations received will be processed at the on-site rate.

Additionally, cancellations received after February 20 will be assessed $10. No refunds for no-shows!

For more information and to register, see
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2015AERC/2015Convention.pdf.

Unbranded: 4 Men Riding Mustangs Across the American West and it Started in Aggieland

HoustonPress Blogs - Full Article

By Margaret Downing Wed., Feb. 18 2015

The photographs are breathtaking, the idea for the enterprise and how they were able to carry it out equally so.
In Unbranded, author Ben Masters tells the story of how he got the idea that what he really needed to do was to ride horses across the American West. He recounts how it started at Texas A&M University "one of the few places in the world where you can find people crazy enough to ride a horse for thousands of miles."

Masters had undertaken a long-distance riding trip with a friend -- four months and 2,000 miles -- on quarter horses. When he decided to do it again, he says he realized he needed a different kind of horse, one more adaptable to back country hardships.

He chose the mustang...

Read more here:
http://blogs.houstonpress.com/artattack/2015/02/unbranded_4_men_riding_mustangs_across_the_american_west_and_it_started_in_aggieland.php

Take Action: Ask Your Member of Congress to Support H.R. 845, the "Forest Trails" Bill

February 18 2015

Last week, the National Forest "trails bill" that Back Country Horsemen of America supported last year was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Cynthia Lummis  (R-WY)  and Tim Walz (D-MN). The bill, the National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act (H.R. 845), continues to spur high-level dialogue and a search for solutions to the growing trail maintenance crisis on our national forests.
 
BCHA strongly supports H.R. 845.
 
You can click here to read the text of the bill as introduced.
 
The bill was introduced at the request of BCHA and our partners, The Wilderness Society and American Horse Council. It responds, in part, to a June 2013 report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that reviewed the status and causes of the Forest Service trail maintenance backlog. 
 
If enacted as currently written, H.R. 845 would:
• Direct the U.S. Forest Service to develop a strategy to more effectively utilize volunteers and partners to assist in maintaining national forest trails;
• Provide outfitters and guides the ability to pay permit fees in trail maintenance activities instead of dollars;
• Address the liability issue that hampers volunteer and partner trail maintenance activity in some national forests; and
• Prioritize specific areas for trail maintenance within national forests.
 
Take Action!
Please call or write your congressional representative to express support for H.R. 845. As a result of widespread bipartisan interest, the bill could move quickly through the House of Representatives if no controversial provisions or requests for new appropriations are added. We also hope to see a companion bill introduced in the Senate soon.
 
Go to this website to find contact information for your member of Congress. In your own words, tell your representative why you support H.R. 845, the National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act. Tell them of your passion for, and commitment to, keeping national forest trails open and enjoyed by horsemen and others. Lastly, please ask them to consider co-sponsoring H.R. 845.
 
If you are a resident of Wyoming or Minnesota, please include in your message a heartfelt "Thank You!" to Representatives Lummis and Walz, respectively, for introducing H.R. 845 on behalf of the Back Country Horsemen.
 
Feel free to share copies of your letters (quietrecreation@gmail.com) with BCHA's Advisor for Public Lands & Recreation, including any response you receive from your member of Congress.
 
BCHA is excited to have this bill reintroduced.
 
Our campaign has taken nearly three years to get to this point. Consequently, we believe BCHA is well-positioned--along with its partners--to continue to explore and promote lasting solutions to the trail maintenance crisis on our National Forests.
 
Thank you! And please call or send letters today to you congressional representative in support of H.R. 845.
 
Jim McGarvey, Chairman
Back Country Horsemen of America

Register Today for the 2015 American Endurance Ride Conference Convention

Journalists are invited to attend the AERC Conference Seminars free of charge. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Register Today for the 2015 American Endurance Ride Conference Convention
Join us March 6-7, 2015 at the Grand Sierra Resort, Reno Nevada

AUBURN, California – February 18, 2015 – Endurance competitors and enthusiasts from all over the United States will gather on March 6 & 7, 2015 at the Grand Sierra Resort, in Reno, Nevada for the annual American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) Convention.  The agenda features a wide array of informative seminars and discussions on topics of top interest to participants in the sport of endurance. For more info, and to register and receive the best pricing on conference seminars, please visit http://www.aerc.org/2015Convention.pdf and register before February 20.

Conference attendees always enjoy the popular annual Tack Swap that allows riders to pick up tack and related items at bargain prices, with 10% of proceeds benefitting the AERC.  Attendees can also attend the free trade show which runs Friday 9-6 and Saturday 9-5 and features a wide variety of vendors that offer a great opportunity to purchase the type of gear distance horses generally use.

A perfect venue for those interested in learning more about the sport of endurance riding, the Conference features informative Speaker Seminars by industry leading experts sharing their knowledge in equine health care, endurance riding and endurance-related fields. For example, Jan Hancock, author of Guidebook for Trails, Trailheads, and Campgrounds and equestrian representative on the American Trails National Advisory Board, will kick off the conference with a presentation on Protecting Trail Access and Planning for Future Access. Additional seminar topics include Body Condition Scoring & Other Current Topics with Susan Garlinghouse, MS, DVM; Dr. Kenneth Marcella DVM will be taking an in-depth look at the structure and function of the equine back in Back Issues in the Endurance Horse; Karen Chaton will offer a top rider’s perspective in Longevity: Keep Your Horse Going for Years; and in The Ins and Outs of Garnering a Best Condition, World Champion and Tevis Cup winner Becky Grand Hart will share her tips for how you can increase your equine’s chances of earning best condition at your upcoming rides. (For a complete listing of Conference seminars, please visit www.aerc.org)

John Parke will host two free early-morning ‘Hot Topic’ workshops where endurance riders can participate in thought-provoking discussions. This year’s topics include “Cooking Up an AERC Ride: Should We Change the Recipe?” and “Fishing for Members: Casting the Net Without Tossing ’em Back” led by Patti Stedman.

In addition to the informative sessions, the AERC has a full weekend of events planned for all attendees including:

·       National Awards Banquet. AERC’s top riders and equines for the 2014 season will be honored at Saturday’s banquet. Also recognized will be the Hall of Fame and Pard’ners Award recipients and equines who have reached 5,000+ endurance miles. Don’t miss this special evening.

·       Regional Awards. Winners of regional mileage, points, and best condition awards for endurance and limited distance will be celebrated and acknowledged at a ceremony/reception on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

·       Friday Night Dance. Come mingle and dance at this always-fun evening of music, dancing and celebration.

·       Raffle. The popular AERC raffle drawings take place during trade show hours (tickets: $1 each). Most vendors make donations to the raffle, and numerous ride managers from all regions will be donating ride entries. If you have items you’d like to donate to the raffle, bring them by the raffle booth at the start of the convention. Raffle benefits AERC.

·       General Session. This open forum meeting, held Saturday at 11:00 a.m., offers members an opportunity to speak directly with AERC board members. Come and express your views on the direction of the organization and the sport of endurance riding. Election of officers by the AERC board of directors will also take place during this session.

·       Committee Meetings. Most AERC committees meet during convention. Meeting times will be posted at the convention.
About the AERC
The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) was founded in 1972 as a national governing body for long distance riding. Over the years it has developed a set of rules and guidelines designed to provide a standardized format and strict veterinary controls. The AERC sanctions more than 700 rides each year throughout North America and in 1993 Endurance became the fifth discipline under the United States Equestrian Team.

In addition to promoting the sport of endurance riding, the AERC encourages the use, protection, and development of equestrian trails, especially those with historic significance. Many special events of four to six consecutive days take place over historic trails, such as the Pony Express Trail, the Outlaw Trail, the Chief Joseph Trail, and the Lewis and Clark Trail. The founding ride of endurance riding, the Western States Trail Ride or "Tevis," covers 100 miles of the famous Western States and Immigrant Trails over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. These rides promote awareness of the importance of trail preservation for future generations and foster an appreciation of our American heritage. For more information please visit us at www.aerc.org.

For more information please contact:

Candace FitzGerald

Dobbin Group

candace@dobbin-group.com

603-738-2788

A Personal Rant About What’s Become of FEI Endurance

Enduranceintrospection Blog - Full Article

By Patti Stedman | December 7th, 2013

[The first thing I have to do is officially divorce my personal opinions, comments and this entire rant from what is my official role on the AERC Board of Directors. I have certainly expressed my thoughts and feelings and ideas to that group of twenty-six, and am open to discussing that if anyone has questions on what is going with regard to doing BoD business, but not here, and not today.]

Here, this morning, I am going to have a temper tantrum of massive proportion to express my disgust and frustration.

I am furious that international competition, which left me cheering and proud in the late 1990s when I was just starting the sport, has become a shamefully divisive topic of discussion...

Read more here:
http://enduranceintrospection.com/a-personal-rant-about-whats-become-of-fei-endurance/

AERC Board of Directors Appalled at Equine Deaths in Abu Dhabi CEN Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
American Endurance Ride Conference Board of Directors
Date: February 11, 2015

The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) Board of Directors is expressing anger and disgust following reports of three equine fatalities which occurred at a national Concours Endurance Nationale (CEN) event held in Abu Dhabi January 31, 2015.

Horrifying photographs show Splitters Creek Bundy, a 12-year-old Australian-bred gelding, collapsing into the sand with catastrophic fractures of both front legs, while vehicles and onlookers continue along the course. The bay gelding had failed to finish in his last three competitions, all held in the United Arab Emirates, but had previously been raced seven times at distances from 80 to 120 km (50 to 75 miles) at an average speed of 22.6 km/hr (14.04 mph).

The flat, non-technical courses in this region have been criticized worldwide for their emphasis on punishing speed and increasing rates of forelimb fractures, many of which remain unreported by relevant national and international governing bodies.

AERC’s president, Dr. Michael Campbell, said, “AERC is appalled at the Al Reef tragedy, and does not condone or support this type of riding or treatment of horses. Such abuse of equines is inexcusable and disgusting in the extreme. This is not what we stand for.”

Endurance riding, which AERC can claim originated in the United States almost 60 years ago as an organized sport, is sanctioned internationally by the Federation Equestre International (FEI). The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a member of FEI Regional Group VII, which has drawn harsh international criticism for repeated reports of equine abuse, positive drug tests, and illegal switching of both horses and riders during competition.

While FEI instituted new rules to improve equine welfare in August 2014, forward measurable progress remains slow. When pressed by journalists in regards to the three equine deaths at the Abu Dhabi competition, representatives of FEI stated that the Al Reef race was a national event and thus out of their jurisdiction.

At the March 2014 AERC Convention and Annual Board of Directors Meetings, John Long, then-CEO of the United States Equestrian Federation, met with the AERC Board of Directors to address the mutual concerns regarding reports of equine abuse, positive drug tests and blatant rule violations largely occurring within members of Group VII. At that time, AERC was considering a motion to withdraw from participation in international endurance competition until such time as FEI could demonstrate adequate control and reform of the crisis. After lengthy discussions, Mr. Long, who has since retired, stated USEF’s firm commitment to aggressively address change and improved rule enforcement within FEI. At that time, Mr. Long stated, “If we stay together and nothing good comes out of this over the next six months or a year, then we’ll walk away from it together. We’ll do it together.”

AERC’s board members strongly condemn the continuing trend within some Group VII participants towards rule violations and the racing of horses at blistering speeds leading to chronic injuries, fractures and death. The 26-member board urges USEF and FEI to demonstrate their previous commitments to change and reform the egregious offenses occurring within the international arena of endurance riding.

Contact: Troy Smith
American Endurance Ride Conference
www.aerc.org
endurancenews@foothill.net
866-271-2372, 530-823-2260

February's Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning with Karen Chaton

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen!

February 10 2015

Endurance Day with Karen Chaton opens with a look at Bioscanning for saddle fit, training the spooky horse with Matthew Coats and new endurance rider questions answered by Patti Stedman. Listen in...

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-02-10-2015-endurance-day-on-spooky-horses-and-new-endurance-riders/

Owyhee River Challenge

Karen's Horse Tales blog

Saturday, February 7, 2015
by Karen Bumgarner

Somewhere in the craziness of what mind I have left, I decided to put on an endurance ride. I settled on the name of Owyhee River Challenge because you ride from the Succor Creek area to the Owyhee River for a vet check. And then back over the hills to camp. After a vet check in camp you have an easy 10 mile loop through Succor Creek Canyon. The 25's will have two short loops with vet checks in camp. I even have some wonderful volunteers lined up but need more.

Only during the winter I kept coming up with more ideas!
A Ride & Tie Friday!
And Endurance Saturday.

PLUS a Ride or Run on Sunday! What was I thinking? In addition there will be a HUGE raffle Saturday night. Maybe a couple silent auction items as well. All this to benefit a little girl waiting for a heart transplant...

Read more here:
http://karenshorsetales.blogspot.com/2015/02/owyhee-river-challenge.html

Team Easyboot 2015 - The Contest is Open

Easycareinc Blog

Wednesday, January 28, 2015 by Kevin Myers

We are excited to announce EasyCare is now accepting applications for Team Easyboot 2015. Team members will be selected based on their knowledge of the EasyCare product line, their diversity of riding activity, and their influence in their community.

Expectations of Team Easyboot Members
If accepted onto Team Easyboot 2015, members are expected to:

Represent EasyCare in a professional and positive manner.
Actively promote and inform others about all EasyCare products and help others in the field.
Be available to assist in boot fitting and to provide advice in person and online.
Blog once a month on the EasyCare corporate blog.
Actively participate with positive interaction and product advice on the Easyboot Facebook page.
Wear Team Easyboot attire at events.
Display Team Easyboot logo on tack, trailers and vehicles.

Summary of Benefits

Access to discounted EasyCare product for personal use.
Access to the EasyCare staff for general booting education and problem-solving.

Note: Product purchased through the Team Easyboot discount program is for personal use only and cannot be resold.

Application
If you would like to be considered for membership on Team Easyboot 2015, please answer a few basic questions in our online Application Form. Applications will be accepted until 10:00 PM Mountain Standard Time on Friday, February 13, 2105.

The Selection Process
Members of Team Easyboot 2015 will be selected by a panel of EasyCare staff. The new team members will be announced on Monday, February 23, 2015.

Good luck!
- See more at: http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/bootlegging/team-easyboot-2015-the-contest-is-open#sthash.15clu5y0.dpuf

2015 Convention 'Cast: Endurance is For Everyone!

February 2 2015

AERC and Endurance.net will be teaming up to bring you live updates from the 2015 AERC convention in Reno. If you can't make it, tune in! We'll have tweets and vine video clips and photos throughout March 6 and 7, including the Saturday night National Awards ceremony. Kind of like a live coverage of the Oscars and behind the scenes, only better: AERC endurance style!

You can get tweets by following "endurancenet" or "#2015aerc" on Twitter***, or bookmarking the web page
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2015AERC/

For more information on the convention, and to sign up, see
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2015AERC/2015Convention.pdf

Stay tuned!

***AMENDED - this post previously said the hashtag for the convention would be #aerc2015. It is now #2015aerc. Otherwise you'd also be getting tweets from a non-horsey Rheology convention in France!

Endurance Green Beans Take it a Step Further

January 31 2015

The Green Bean Endurance website has a new makeover, thanks to the diligent work of Jillane Baros, Sharalyn Hay, Jacke Reynolds, and Deb Moe.

Greenbeanendurance.com - a website resource for Green Bean Education, Encouragement, and Endurance, now offers a formal membership, for both Green Beans and 'Ripe Bean' endurance riders.

The Green Bean Endurance page started on Facebook in January of 2014 as an expansion of the original PNER Green Beans group, and it quickly spread like wildfire.  Sharalyn Hay originated the "Green Bean" idea to create an inviting and safe environment for riders new to endurance or who had horses new to endurance to share their experiences and get support.  Since then, the title of "Green Bean" has been expanded to include all those who wish to learn more about endurance. The new website offers free access to educational resources and links, discussions, and Green Bean apparel; and it offers extras for joining members.

Green Bean members have access to Member Directories (looking for other Green Beans, or mentors in your area?); Members-Only Forums; monthly giveaways; newsletters; discounts; and Green Bean Competitions.  In the new future, they will be rolling out "badges" to recognize individual rider accomplishments on their profiles.

With 120 riders registered, the 2015 Green Bean Teams are full; each team consists of 5 Green Beans with 999 miles or less; completions on any horse count toward overall mileage during the 2015 season.

For more information on joining Green Bean Endurance, as a Green Bean or a Ripe Bean, see:
https://greenbeanendurance.com

Early Spring Special: Free Classified Ads on Endurance Net!

Endurance.net Classifieds

Winter getting to you? It's time to ignore those winter storms bearing down on your area, and look ahead to spring and getting ready for a new endurance ride season.

www.Endurance.net has been the leading site for all Endurance-related classifieds since 1998.

For the months of February and March, come celebrate 17 years of classifieds and another year of endurance trails, with Free Listings of endurance (and trail, and other!) horses, saddles, tack & boots, property, trucks & trailers. We also have a slot for Endurance Dogs and Personals!

Go to http://www.endurance.net and click on the Classifieds Link

Vendors at the 2015 AERC Convention

AERC.org

GREAT VENDORS you will find at the AERC Convention (Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nevada) on March 6 & 7 -- some old, some new!

Welcome American Trail Gear, Ann Kratochvil, Arabian Saddle Co., AthleticEquine.com, Auburn Labs, Boz Saddlery, EasyCare Inc., Fleeceworks, Hawthorne Products, Hooves & Whiskers, Hought Tack, Jan's Jems, Porta-Grazer, Purina Animal Nutrition, Sage Brushes Studio, Specialized Saddles, Trailwise Saddles, Triple Crown Nutrition, UndeRider (sports bras & underwear), Vettec Hoof Care, Western States Trail Foundation, Wild Carats, XP Rides. See you in Reno in just over six weeks!!! The FREE trade show is open 8-6 Friday, 3/6, and 8-5 Saturday 3/7.

Link: http://www.aerc.org/2015Convention.pdf

Endurance is for Everyone: 2015 AERC Convention

Come to Reno, Nevada March 6 and 7 for the 2015 AERC Convention, for the annual Trade Show, Speaker Seminars, Hot Topics Workshops, Regional Awards, Friday Night Dance, Raffle, Tack Swap, and more.

Hot Topics Sessions on Friday and Saturday mornings include “Cooking Up an AERC Ride: Should We Change the Recipe?” and “Fishing for Members: Casting the Net Without Tossing ‘em Back”.

Speakers for the Friday Seminars include Jan Hancock, “Protecting Trail Access and Planning for Future Access”; Dr Hal Schott, “100 Mile Survey Analysis”; Dr K. Gary Magnesian, “Gastric Ulcers in the Endurance Horse”; Dr Susan Garlinghouse, “Body Condition Scoring & Other Current Topics”; and Patti Stedman, “Top 10 Questions Green Beans Ask”.

Speakers for the Saturday Seminars include Dr Ken Marcella, “Back Issues in the Endurance Horse”; Karen Chaton, “Longevity: Keeping Your Horse Going for Years”; Martin Adams, “Nutrition for the Endurance Horse”; and Becky Hart, “The Ins and Outs of Garnering a Best Condition”.

Regional Awards will take place Friday evening, and the National Awards Banquet will take place Saturday evening.

For more information, and to register, see
http://www.aerc.org/2015Convention.pdf

Where have all the Arabians gone?

Desertarabian.org - Full Article

by Bruce M. Johnson

Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Girls have picked them every one
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?
© 1961 Pete Seeger

Those of us who recall this ballad may well now ask, “Where have all the Arabians gone?” as we continue to read about declines in registrations and show entrees. What is the situation? How is the Desert Arabian doing? What lies ahead, and what can we do to improve the prospects for the future?

Historical Perspective

Registrations of Arabian horses began in 1908 with the establishment of the Arabian Horse Club of America (later the Arabian Horse Registry of America). Horses were registered by year of birth. Prior to 1908, fewer than 10 foals had been born each year. That number grew to more than 20 by 1925, and then reached 75 by 1932. Breeding by Albert Harris, Henry Babson, J M Dickinson, Roger Selby, W K Kellogg, and many others drove the annual number of foals into triple digits in 1936 and reached 398 in 1945. The numbers continued to climb in most years after World War II, hitting 1,097 in 1956 and 2,084 in 1960.

Breeding grew rapidly for the next 25 years. There were so many foals that statistics were kept by year registered rather than birth year. In 1985 there were just over 30,000 horses registered...

Read more here:
http://desertarabian.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/WhereHaveGone.pdf

2014 Drinkers of the Wind Challenge Winners

January 5 2015

The Institute for the Desert Arabian Horse announced that the 2014 Drinkers of the Wind Performance Challenge has been won by OT El Azrak (Raveon Ravenwood x OT Dysara RSI), one of Crockett Dumas' homebreds.

“Crockett Dumas is yet one more time demonstrating the wonderful abilities of our Desert Arabians by winning the Schimanski Trophy in our 2014 Drinkers of the Wind Challenge. Crockett and his Pritzlaff bred herd keep topping the list of our Drinkers winners proving that our modern Desert Arabians possess the same attributes as their ancestors did. We congratulate and commend Crockett for his continued efforts in breeding, conditioning and training, and competing these wonderful horses and hope that 2015 is yet another great year for him.”

Reserve Champion in the Top Ten Performance Desert Arabians in the US went to Frisia Mamuluk (Serenity Sharuf x Serenity Btmamluk), a 2005 gelding bred, trained and shown by Willemena DeBoer. “Willemena is using the blood stock of Hansi Heck in her program and she is having wonderful success with it. She has three horses competing in the Drinkers program and all are successful.”

Other Arabian endurance horses in the Top Ten were:

Frisia Shaheen, (Serenity Shahail x Serenity Arufa) bred by Willamena De Boer using Serenity bloodstock.

OT Rymoni GLY (Dymoniet x OT Rafisa RSI), owned by Troy and Clarie Eckard and bred by Crockett Dumas, for his Endurance wins.

OT Dyra Bataa RSI (Rave on Ravenwood x OT Dysara RSI) another of Crockett Dumas' homebreds making a wonderful showing in endurance.

Avalon Yasminah (Ibn Faydin x Mahrus Mis Asiil) a 2006 mare bred by Jennifer Ligon and owned and competed by Mary Fields in endurance.

DB Al Magid, (Aswad Khayal x DB Minna) 2008 Desert Arabian owned by Krista Foyston and competed in endurance.

The Drinkers of the Wind Award program is a high-point award program for the original equine athletes of the Arabian desert. The award is committed to breeding in the tradition of the Bedouin, honoring the Desert Arabian as athlete, performer and competitor, and recognizing the Desert Arabian in a wide array of performance disciplines, including English, Dressage, Driving, Eventing, Hunter, Western, Competitive Trail, Endurance, and Sport Horse Under Saddle.

For more information, see
Desertarabian.org.

Canadian Endurance Riders Kick-off New Year in Top Gear

Horse-canada.com

January 15, 2015 | 0 comments

by: Equine Canada

At the CEI Greenway Gallivant held in Dunnellon, Fla., Jan. 1–3, 2015, Canadians earned great finish times in the CEI 1* 80 km and CEI 2* 120 km races.

In the CEI2* 120 km race held on Jan. 2, Wendy MacCoubrey of St. Justine de Newton, Que., finished in a time of 7:58:42 for fourth place out of 12 starters riding Agils Golden Indy (Agil x aglayla) , Lynda Townsend’s eight-year-old Canadian Arabian gelding.

Yvette Vinton, a member of 2014 World Equestrian Games team, of Morriston, Fla., rode Teese ( ZT Ali Baba x Samtyr), her 15-year-old Arabian gelding, to an eighth place finish (5:54:34 ) in the CEI1* 80 km race held Jan. 2.

On Jan. 3, Robert Gielen of Flesherton, Ont., was third (5:23:00) in the CEI1* 80km race riding Vegas, his 10-year-old Arabian gelding sired by Haffir El Rimal. Vinton and DJB Kid Stars (Las Starsnstripes x El Paso), her 12-year-old Arabian gelding, finished in 12th place in a time of 7:41:20.

http://www.horse-canada.com/horse-news/canadian-endurance-riders-kick-off-new-year-in-top-gear/