Behind the Lens: Get to Know Endurance Ride Photographer Genie Stewart-Spears

by Merri Melde-Endurance.net
May 1 2020

In today's issue of my "Behind the Lens" series, featuring members of the Endurance Ride Photographers Guild (ERPG), we get to meet veteran photographer, journalist, and inspiration to many of us, Genie Stewart-Spears.

Genie has written and photographed for - to name a few! - Arabian Horse World, Western Horseman, Trail Rider, Chronicle of the Horse, Arabian Horse Express, Horse & Rider, Endurance News, Horse Women, Horse Play, Equus, Equine Images, Morgan Horse, Appaloosa Horse Journal, Inside International (AHA), Horse Care, Horse Show, Miles To Go, Ride, and Horseman. Her photographs have appeared in numerous books and calendars, and also in ads.  Most recently she sold an endurance photograph that will be on the side of a regional horse feed delivery truck!

Where do you live?
Southern Illinois

What is your profession?
Equine Photographer and Journalist since 1984 - 2020, but retired except for selling a few in-stock photos, writing a few articles a year, and running an airbnb out of my home (Inn To The Forest)

Do you have horses? Do you ride?
Yep, a now 13-year-old Missouri Fox Trotter and 22-year-old mule that I  trail ride all over the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.

How did you first get into photography?
I began photographing for my articles in equine magazines - how-to articles that included endurance, and then covering endurance rides for magazines.  I got a lot of practice photographing horses in motion at the nearby Paducah Downs, in Paducah, Kentucky.

I was an endurance competitor in the beginning (5-day Outlaw Trail and Renegade Rides were my favorites), and often carried my camera, getting off and photographing other riders (for the purpose of illustrating the magazine articles I wrote). And because I was frequently being asked by riders if they could purchase photos, my work morphed into also being an endurance ride photographer.

One of my first events to photograph and cover for magazines was the 1987 Race of Champions in Utah, followed by the World Championship (1988) in Virginia.  I also photographed and covered a number of North American Championships, more Race of Champions, Pan Americans, Old Dominions and Biltmore Rides, to name a few of the big rides.

What equipment do you normally shoot with?
I began with a 35 mm Olympus and went to Canon equipment with the 70-200 lens being my favorite.

When did you start shooting endurance rides?
Mid 1980s

Why do you like shooting endurance rides?
I was drawn to the athleticism of the horses and the riders.

What are challenges you find in shooting endurance rides?
Biggest challenge was getting trail maps/directions to preview the course. Ride managers or trail bosses back then didn’t comprehend what all goes into finding the best places to capture the essence of the competition with a strong background or foreground with the best possible light.  I often would arrive two to three days prior and explore the trail in reverse, because that is how I would be viewing the horses.

What are one or two of your favorite ride shooting stories/adventures/misadventures?
Endurance photographers often lend aid on the trail to lost or injured riders and horses!

#1 Oh mercy, I’m not a swimmer but I had to swallow my fear of water to get out in the middle of the Shenandoah River (Old Dominion Ride) year after year.  The second or third year a horse was as terrified as I was of the water, dumped its rider and fled across the river in terror. It was in full panic mode.  Suddenly it saw me standing in the middle of the river and I guess it thought I would save it from the water swallowing it whole, and turned straight for me. I was torn between photographing or running for shore! True to being a photographer, I kept shooting and then grabbed its reins. It stood, trembling, until the rider slogged her way across the river to retrieve her horse.

#2 At a ride in Kentucky (Land Between The Lakes), as I was driving to my next spot to shoot, a riderless horse came toward me at a full gallop. I was able to slow him and catch him. Once he was secured, I went in search of the rider who I found in the middle of the trail, conscious but in great pain. She had been full-bodied slammed into a tree. She was helicoptered from the local hospital to a major one in Tennessee where she underwent surgery. Thankfully she fully recovered and returned to competition. As I recall, she was riding the late Dr. Matthew Mackay-Smith’s horse that had its own idea how fast to run the course.

Any other pertinent info you’d like to share with us?
I was honored to meet and spend time with the late and great (and first ever) ride photographer Charles Barieau during the 1992 Tevis. Some of the stories he shared were wonderful pieces of endurance history! He talked about riding the Tevis Trail (in training) with Wendell Robie and about their adventures. Charles wasn’t into riding as much as Wendell. On one long ride, hoping to turn back for home, Charles told Wendell the horse he was riding was getting tired. Wendell told him the horse was just fooling him and swapped horses (both were Wendell’s horses) and they kept going. Not what Charles wanted!

I’ve ridden alongside some great riders and horses through the years and better yet I’ve photographed and interviewed many of the greats for magazine articles. People like Valerie Kanavy (Cash) and her daughter Danielle who is just as awesome of a rider as her mother; and there’s Becky Hart (Rio),  Jeanne Waldron (Brombe), Crockett Dumas (Grasshopper), Debbie Gordon (Redman),  Maggy Price (Priceless),  Beverly Gray (Omner),  Mary Koefod (Dana’s Northlite), Darla Westlake (RT Muffin), Sharon Ballard (Kidd), Kathy Arnold (Easter Charm), Stagg Newman (Drubin) and so many more greats that make up the sport and made it what it is today.  

While I’m not out there photographing rides anymore, I’m enriched with having been in the midst of great riders and learned from them, not just about riding but about life and how to roll with the punches as well as appreciate the good times.  I thank God for it all.


Below are a couple of Genie's favorite shots and rides over the years.


Valerie Kanavy with some of her horses on her farm in VA (2009)


Stagg Newman with Drubin after the horse’s retirement from endurance (2004)


Annie Whelan during the North American Junior and Young Riders’ Competition in 2015


Valerie Kanavy on Cash (Pieraz) in the 1993 Race of Champions.


Danielle Kanavy McGunigal at 2005 Biltmore finish line.

Top photo is a recent photo of Genie with three of her four poodles that often go hiking with her


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Behind the Lens: Susan Kordish profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/04/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride_15.html

Behind the Lens: Becky Pearman profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/02/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Dave Honan profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Linda Sherrill profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride_16.html

Behind the Lens: Steve Bradley profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/04/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Historical ApHC Chief Joseph Trail Ride Cancelled

April 28 2020

MOSCOW, IDAHO—The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Chief Joseph Trail Ride, set to take place August 3 – 7, 2020. This would have been the 56th consecutive year the historical event has been held.

Due to COVID-19, the United States Forest Service (USFS) is unable to issue recreational permits, hindering the ability for ApHC trail leaders to access trails and establish a ride route. Trail maintenance has also been halted for the time being which would support a safe ride for members, organizers, and their Appaloosas.

“As a Board, this was one of the most difficult decisions we’ve ever had to make,” said ApHC President Ken Johnson. “But our hands were tied by circumstances out of control. That said, I’m confident that the historic Chief Joseph Trail Ride will be back next year better than ever, with even greater participation.”

The uncertainty of this situation and lack of a set timeline for when USFS operations will return to normal have required the ApHC to make this decision. In order for the Appaloosa Horse Club to successfully hold a safe and enjoyable ride, the time for proper preparation is not feasible this year.

While the situation is unfortunate, the Appaloosa Horse Club and its leaders encourage Chief Joseph riders and participants to look forward to next year when this special tradition can be continued. The fourth leg of the Chief Joseph Trail Ride over Lolo pass will now be ridden in 2021. Meanwhile, ApHC encourages members to spend quality time with their Appaloosa and consider enrolling in the Saddle Log program where awards are earned for their time spent in the saddle.

For additional information on the Chief Joseph Trail Ride and further updates that become available in the following months, please visit https://www.appaloosa.com/trail/ChiefJoseph.htm.

The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) was established in 1938 with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing the Appaloosa breed. The ApHC has since registered more than 700,000 Appaloosas, which are known for their distinctive color, intelligence and even temperament. True to their reputation as an extremely versatile breed, Appaloosas can be found in nearly every discipline including racing, endurance riding and serving as reliable family horses. The international breed registry is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, the heart of the Palouse region—the Appaloosa breed’s namesake and point of origin.

USEF Update on COVID-19: Suspension Extended Through May 31, 2020

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Department | Apr 25, 2020, 8:15 AM EST

April 25, 2020

Dear USEF Members and Competition Organizers (Licensees and Managers),

We continue to carefully monitor the COVID-19 Pandemic situation and the position of health experts, including the CDC and other public health authorities. It appears that in several areas of the country, restrictions put in place by State Governors, such as the “stay-at-home” orders, are making a positive difference. Federal, state and local governments are discussing plans for re-opening the environment in the near future. However, this will not occur overnight and will very likely consist of a graduated easing of restrictions over several weeks, which may vary greatly state-to-state, as well as within the states themselves.

The success of these plans is predicated on a mindful and responsible approach to easing restrictions while also maintaining best practices that we have all learned and adopted in order to reduce exposure to and transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Once USEF competitions resume, we must all continue to support and maintain these best practices as part of our daily activities to help prevent further disruptions to our lives. We hope that resumption of competition comes soon.

With that in mind, the suspension of all USEF owned and named events, selection trials, training camps, clinics and activities is being extended through May 31, 2020. This suspension also includes points, scores, money won, qualifications, or rankings toward any USEF award programs, USEF owned and named events, or selection to a US team including USEF National Championships. Upon the expiration of this suspension, competitions must comply with requirements issued by USEF for operating sport horse competitions in this environment.

Collaborating with competition organizers, affiliate leaders and other industry experts, USEF has been developing competition protocols for safely operating competitions and mitigating the risks associated with COVID-19. Once finalized, we will be providing all competition organizers with these protocols as well as other risk mitigation tools for their use. These tools and resources will also be front-facing on our website and accessible by all members and website visitors.

We have been working on amendments to qualification and selection processes for numerous USEF owned and named events as well as how USEF HOTY awards and ranking lists are calculated. We have started announcing modifications that will make the process as fair as possible for all participants, despite the disruption to the competition year and the likelihood of a staggered regional start-up.

We have received inquiries as to whether USEF will grant exemptions to the junior competitor age restrictions, equine age restrictions and equine eligibility restrictions based on competitive experience. While these topics are being discussed, it is still too early to make definitive conclusions regarding these issues.

We will continue to assess the pandemic impact, and we will keep you informed of any updates to our position as circumstances warrant or as instructed by the government and public health authorities.

The safety and welfare of our members and their horses must continue to be our top priority.

Stay safe,

William J. Moroney
Chief Executive Officer

Wild West Virtual Endurance Ride

WildWestEndurance.com

Joining a couple of other innovative endurance riders and ride managers, Wild West is hosting a virtual endurance ride - a one day ride on May 9 or 10, or a week-long challenge May 9-17.

It's a way to get your virtual endurance riding on while still practicing social distancing and while having a goal for your fit equines.

After you complete your ride(s), you'll e-mail Wild West your GPS tracks, a screenshot of them or a link to them. Then watch on their Facebook page for your standings. Awards will be mailed out after the ride but depending on the popularity it could take up to a month to arrive depending on availability. 

For more information and to sign up, see
https://www.wildwestendurance.com/virtual-endurance-ride/

Behind the Lens: Get to Know Endurance Ride Photographer Susan Kordish

by Merri Melde-Endurance.net
April 15 2020

Next up in my "Behind the Lens" series, featuring members of the Endurance Ride Photographers Guild (ERPG), is Susan Kordish, of AZ Cowgirl Photography.

Those of you who ride in the Southwest region have seen Susan behind the lens the last decade. In this article, Susan shifts between saying “I” and “We,” because her husband John is a very important part of her photography business. “He takes great photos,” Susan says, “and one of our Endurance News covers was actually his image. We are two halves of a whole.”

Where do you live?
We currently live in Skull Valley, Arizona. We vacationed here for 10 years prior to moving here in 2005 from Northern Vermont.

What is your profession?
My husband John and I owned and operated a convenience store/gas station for 20 years in Vermont. When we moved here to Arizona we both went to work for the local casino operation. I still work full-time as the Administrative Licensing Technician. My job is to process people's paperwork and do the initial background investigation for gaming licenses (required to work in a casino). I am hoping once I retire to make photography my full-time occupation.

Do you have horses? Do you ride?
I began riding at 8...and I am now 60. My very first horse was actually a Chincoteague Pony. His name was Little Fellow and the man that owned him wrote a book about his early life called "Hundred Acre Welcome" by Ronald Rood. Little Fellow came to me when I was 10 and he was 6. He lived with me until he was 36! Currently I have a registered Morab gelding named Chase. He will be 21 this year. John has a registered Arabian mare named Fancy. Fancy will be 28 this summer.

When I was a kid I competed in hunter/jumper, eventing, gymkhanas and some dressage. My husband and I competed as a team in hunter pace events in Vermont. Since moving here we are trail riders although neither of us is riding lately.

How did you first get into photography?
I casually did photography as a kid with a little 110 camera. My big breakthrough came on our first trip together to the West. We made a trip to Las Vegas in the early 90's. I had met a horseback rider and photographer on an AOL chat room. She said she would take us riding in the desert around Las Vegas. Not only did she take us riding, she took us on a photo safari to the desert near Vegas and handed me her Minolta 35mm with a 70-300 lens and pointed out mustangs in the desert! I was HOOKED! When we got home I bought the same camera and lens combo; I still have it but have moved on to digital. While in Vermont I mostly shot dressage, hunter/jumper and some gymkhana and team penning. I also do some fine art photography and editing.

What equipment do you normally shoot with?
I currently have two Canon 7D bodies, one has a 70-200 f2.8 pro lens and the other has a 24-105 f4 pro lens. My husband is my second shooter. We both use monopods to help with the long hours that shooting endurance rides entails.


When did you start shooting endurance rides?
I originally shot alone. Our first endurance ride came about in an interesting way. We were set to volunteer at a new endurance ride happening right here in Skull Valley. I first tried to be the Official Photographer, but another photographer (Linda Sherrill), well known in the endurance world, was already chosen. The day before the ride I was asked if I could shoot the ride, as Linda was ill and couldn't make the trip. That ride was the Prescott Chaparral Ride in 2011. I had a Canon XTi and a 70-300mm lens and no website. I was able to get a website up and running in 3 days. It wasn't pretty but it functioned and I had a way to sell. A few years later my husband John started being the second shooter so we could get more images of each rider.

Why do you like shooting endurance rides?
We love the excitement and camaraderie of the endurance shoots. We know many of our riders by name and they know us at this point. I love the smiles and kind words they share with us. We feel like part of the endurance family here in Arizona.

What are challenges you find in shooting endurance rides?
The challenges are to find great locations, and the weather. Most of our rides are a bit of a distance from where we live, so we either have to make a scouting trip or arrive a few days early to scout. The weather is usually great but once in awhile the rain comes and makes it very hard. Had an expensive repair when the rain cover didn't protect well enough...I have since purchased a better rain cover!

What are one or two of your favorite ride shooting stories/adventures/misadventures?
Every November we photograph the Lead, Follow or Get Out of My Way ride at McDowell Mountain Regional Park down near Phoenix. We always take our mountain bikes because the biking is wonderful there. So, the ride was on Saturday...I spent much of Sunday working on images, so Monday we decided to head out for a bike ride. About 3 miles in...John fell crossing a dry wash. I could tell immediately that he was hurt bad!! The rest of that day was spent waiting for the helicopter to arrive...then meeting the ambulance back at the park. I was dropped off at our travel trailer to arrange to stay a bit longer - we were supposed to head home the next morning. I arrived at the hospital to find John in the ER with a broken femur/broken hip. A couple of days later while John was having surgery to put a titanium rod into his femur I had to learn to drive the truck pulling the travel trailer alone for the 3 or so hour drive back home. Having driven horse trailers I did fine, but yikes. The good news is he is on the mend and he only missed one shoot.

Also...last April while at our first location at the Lead, Follow or Get Out of My Way at Bumble Bee we got chased out of the desert by a huge bull. We were walking back towards the car to catch the last few riders when we started to hear a bull calling out behind us...then crashing in the desert brush...walking faster I looked back and it was coming our way! I don't think he actually had bad intentions towards us BUT we were in between where he was and where the other bull was. We stopped once we were safe and took a few shots of them sparring!

And any other pertinent info you’d like to share with us?
We have been fortunate to have been published extensively, with covers on The Horse, The Horse's Hoof, Trail Blazer and Endurance News. Many of our photos have been used to illustrate articles and for advertising. Along with our website we have a Fine Art America site. I also have my fine art work available locally at The Prescott Art Market and the Skull Valley Station. In the past I entered many juried art shows both locally and online.

https://www.azcowgirlphotography.com/

Below are a couple of Susan’s favorite shots and rides over the years.


In the Flagstaff Monsoon Fever ride in Arizona, Junior rider Hailey Zehring is riding Andrea Maitland's mustang Wyatt Earp. This made the cover of Endurance News a few months ago.


Brad Person in the Lead, Follow ride in McDowell, Arizona. Brad is Susie Kramer's significant other.


Mary Jane Fridley on Dreamer, in the Dashing through the Trails ride near Goodyear, Arizona.


Here's one of Susan's favorite cover shots

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Behind the Lens: Becky Pearman profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/02/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Dave Honan profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Linda Sherrill profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride_16.html

Behind the Lens: Steve Bradley profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/04/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Vermont 100 Cancelled

April 14 2020

 Due to the COVID-19 viral pandemic, the Vermont 100 ride committee made the very difficult decision to cancel this year's endurance rides, scheduled for July 18, 2020. 

"Consideration for the health and safety of the endurance riding community, our generous volunteers, veterinarians, and the public in general are our foremost concerns in making this decision. These are truly unique circumstances.

This was a very difficult decision for the committee, as we understand the love and passion so many have for this incredibly unique event. We feel that this was the only responsible course of action. We will be back stronger than ever for 2021! Please be safe and well as we rise to meet this global challenge by working together while staying apart."

 Pam and the ride committee.

2020 April's Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen

Apr 14, 2020

Endurance Day Revisit: We chat with 2017 Tevis Cup winner Tenney Lane, Haggin Cup winner Jeremy Reynolds and Molly Farkas shares her adventures riding this year’s race on her Appaloosa Spotted Wap; 49 years after her first Tevis Cup. Listen in...

https://www.horsesinthemorning.com/endurance-day-revisit-2017-tevis-winner-tenney-haggin-cup-winner-reynolds-farkas-completes-again-for-apr-14-2020/

Suzy Kelley Passes

The endurance community is not the same without Suzy Kelley, who passed away on the first of April.

She was the 2008 AERC Hall of Fame inductee and known as a tough competitor with a heart of gold. Her daughter, Laurel Wynn Black, wanted to be sure endurance riders knew that "You all were such a big part of her life for so many years!"

2020 AERC National Championships June 5-7 Cancelled

April 8 2020

Due to the uncertainty and upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 AERC National Championship June 5-7 at Fort Howes, Montana, has been cancelled. The difficult decision was made by ride managers and hosts Jan and Bill Stevens today.

They are uncertain at this time if they will postpone till a fall 2020 date, or June 11-13, 2021.

Stay tuned to AERC.org for further developments.

Washington's Jill Ann Smith approaches her wide-ranging pursuits with passion and dedication

Inlander.com - Full Article

By Carrie Scozzaro
April 8 2020

hat do Arabian horses, women veterans, ceramics and the food industry have in common? They're all things Jill Ann Smith has built businesses around.

"I've always been a niche marketer," says Smith, who lives in the Little Spokane River area in an older home with a newer shop surrounded by funky outdoor sculptures and a garden. From the road, a unique metal fence reads like a biography of Smith's life with cutouts of things like leaves and horses.

Cutouts of Air Force jets relate to her husband, Doug, whom she met while on the westside, where she grew up and earned her art degree at the University of Puget Sound. Fairchild Air Force base brought the couple to Spokane.

Smith likes to tell the story about a trip to Serbia she and her husband took to secure contracts for EarthGoods, one of many ventures she has run or created in her 50 years as a self-styled entrepreneur.

"In Serbia," explains Smith, "business is done over drinking." Only one person spoke English and none had ever dealt with an American nor a woman. Through hand gestures and smiles, they persisted, with Smith pointing to her husband as the "designated drinker," so as not to offend their hosts.

"My husband drank the Serbs under the table," says Smith, laughing.

Her husband also gave Smith her first horse, opening the floodgates, she calls it. Although she never rode a real one as a child — she made do with stick ponies and stories of the Black Stallion — Smith was especially enamored of Arabians...

Read more here:
https://www.inlander.com/spokane/jill-ann-smith-approaches-her-wide-ranging-pursuits-with-passion-and-dedication/Content?oid=19384137

Along for the Ride

IdahoFallsMagazine.com - Full Article

INL employee uses endurance equine racing to explore the great outdoors

Published online: Apr 02, 2020 Articles, East Idaho Outdoors Rebecca Jones

Jessica Cobbley loves preparing others for the ride of their lives.

In her work at Idaho National Laboratory, Cobbley works as an Advanced Test Reactor e-learning technologist. She spends her days finding ways to incorporate new technology like virtual and augmented reality or 3-D printing into the training classroom for the national laboratory’s test reactor.

Off the clock, Cobbley spends time with her passion of equine endurance racing – and works to help others in Idaho enjoy her beloved sport as well.

Growing up in Montana, Cobbley claims she was “riding horses before I could walk.” Her love for horses only grew when she discovered long-distance competitive trail rides at the age of 11. She spent years training, competing and caring for her horses.

She began endurance racing in 2014. Today, Cobbley and her husband both compete in the sport. The couple has seven horses, three of which are used for the difficult endurance races...

Read more here:
https://www.idahofallsmagazine.com/2020/04/along-for-the-ride

Waiting Out Coronavirus, and Thank You to Our Endurance.net Advertisers

April 2 2020

First and foremost, in this time of social distancing and lockdowns and uncertainty with COVID-19, we at Endurance.net would like to send all of you best wishes for staying well and coping. We hope you can still get your horse therapy and horse hugs on!

We will continue to provide our usual US and world-wide endurance news, stories, and uplifting equine-related entertainment for distraction and to look forward to the time we emerge on the other side of this, ready to get back to riding and the sport we all enjoy.

Endurance.net is suspending advertising fees for the months of March and April due to coronavirus and the economic situation, and we are offering 2 free months for new/introductory advertisers. As always, we will continue to promote and share our advertisers' businesses through our popular social media channels, Ridecamp, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

We do want to thank our current advertisers for the mutual support. Please take time to look them, shop, and keep them in mind as we all go through this journey together. Thank you all!

Interested in new advertising? Contact steph@endurance.net.



Belesemo Arabians - in Caldwell, Idaho has been breeding quality endurance and sport horses for more than 35 years. Horses with Belesemo bloodlines account for 18 National AERC titles, 23 U.S. National Champion, Reserve Champion and Top Ten Sport Horses,and numerous Regional & Best Condition placings, in addition to numerous Class A and Open show ring wins.

In the 2016 Tevis Ride - 3 horses sired by stallions in the Belesemo breeding program were in the Top 14. Belesemo Arabians are becoming known as "the definitive endurance horse", the Cadillac of trail horses. Their versatility in all areas of halter & performance are widely accepted.


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Cypress Trails Equestrian Center - in Humble, Texas. Darolyn Butler's stables offer adventure trail rides, training and lessons, horse boarding, and more.

WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS! We have established a safety protocol for our staff and customers and are supplying surgical gloves to riders. There are no crowds and we ride in the fresh air along the creek. Reservations adored. Walk-ups will be accommodated if possible, but those with reservations will be given priority. Book online 24/7 or call 281.446.7232 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.


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The Distance Depot - The Distance Depot has grown into one of the premier shops, for custom made Beta BioThane tack, endurance and trail riding equipment supplies in the nation.

Manufacturing their products in the USA remains important to the integrity of their business, as well as offering proven, innovative products that are used by top riders in the endurance and trail riding communities. Maintaining expert customer service, and providing the fastest shipping available on all of their orders, continues to be a top priority for this company.


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Dixie Midnight No-Sweat Vent Pads - Dixie Midnight No-Sweat Vent Pads are made Exclusively For Horses By Riders Who Care, right Here In The USA!! No-Sweat vent pads are guaranteed to perform as described and the FAQS are......There is no finer piece of tack made.

This is how the No-Sweat vent pad is placed upon your horse. Your No-Sweat rests on your horse's back, your saddle pad rests on the No-Sweat, and your saddle rests upon your saddle pad. Your horse will be cooler and more comfortable, your saddle pad will stay clean and dry, no matter how hard you ride.


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Drinkers of the Wind Arabians in Bellevue, Idaho - Robert Bouttier has owned and operated Drinkers of the Wind Arabians since the 1970's and named it Drinkers of the Wind Arabians after the book written by Carl Raswan.

Robert raises mostly Polish Arabian horses with the Forta and Sabellina bloodlines which produced the great horses such as Sambor, Sabson, Samtyr, Monarch AH, Falat, NF Proof, etc. French Arabian bloodlines have also been included in the DWA breeding program by stallions such as Haffir el Rimal, Chndaka, Ala Croixnoire, Falina des Fabries, and Darwinn. Many of the DWA horses have excelled at the racetrack as well as in endurance, and others have made excellent pleasure and trail horses.


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Equipedic Saddle Pads - Can a saddle pad improve your horse's performance? Can it increase the oxygenated blood flow levels across the horse's back? Can it help build strength and accelerate muscle recovery? Will it provide your horse with more energy without supplements? Can a saddle pad lower the body surface temperature of a horse? Can it eliminate saddle fit problems and pressure points? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding YES, if it is an EquiPedic® Saddle Pad! There is no other saddle pad like it!

EquiPedic, Inc. has utilized the latest in space age technology and proven existing technology to bring you the ultimate in equine comfort! A saddle pad that actually lowers the body surface temperature of your horse, increases the transcutaneous oxygen levels of your horse's back, increases energy levels, and speeds muscle recovery. All while protecting its back!

All in an orthopedic, anti-slip, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, machine washable saddle pad! Combining phase change material, Celliant (formerly known as Holofiber), and the most advanced impact reduction material, Confor™ material, with natural wool and non coated breathable 1000 denier Cordura eliminates saddle fit problems, increases oxygen, energy, muscle recovery and keeps your horse cooler when it's hot and warmer when it's cold!


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Euroxciser - We’ve been manufacturing Horse Exercisers for over two decades. It’s our focus and all we do. Built strong to last and meet your horse training needs every day, all day, year after year.

Owning a EuroXciser is an investment to improve the performance and health of your horses. The euro walker opens a wide range of training opportunities. Improve your horses’ fitness base with daily work plans. Integrate interval training to build strength and speed. Rehabilitate horses in a safe controlled environment. Exercise several horses at once saving time with fewer hands to manage the work. Keep your older horses sound and in shape. Prep your yearlings and foals for sales. The options are many; transform your facility with a EuroXciser. Find training tips and more on our blog.


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Idaho Saddle Company - Welcome to Idaho Saddle Company - Trail & Endurance Saddles

Let's find your new trail or endurance saddle today! I have a large inventory to pick from of new, used, and demo saddles or I can order you a new custom Arabian Saddle Company saddle. I went through a ton of trail and endurance saddles before I found Arabian Saddle Company saddles. I have ridden in an ASC Solstice for 10 years and own two of them. They are the best English saddle for trail riding and endurance riding. I am always amazed at how they fit me and my three horses that have different shaped backs.


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Moss Rock Endurance - MRE is a maker of Beta Biothane® tack, and it’s created right here in the USA. Excellent customer service and high quality tack has always been and remains our highest priority! Additionally, you'll find a wide assortment of headstalls, reins, saddle accessories, and dog equipment.

A family-owned business since 2000, Moss Rock understands your passion, so let’s tack up and ride!


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Renegade Hoof Boots - The Worlds Highest Performing Hoof Boots! Proudly manufactured In the USA by Lander Industries Inc.

Featuring unique pivoting heel captivator technology; if properly sized, fitted, adjusted and installed, the Renegade Hoof Boot will not rub, not even for distances of 100 miles (Tevis proven) and requires no accessories whatsoever to accomplish this feat.

The Renegade® Hoof Boot has been a long time coming but its arrival represents the unleashing of the inherent performance potential of the barefoot performance horse, providing them with the extra protection they need to achieve unprecedented levels of performance over the toughest of terrain.


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Riding Warehouse - Affectionately called "RW" by its devotees, Riding Warehouse is Your One-Stop Online Tack Shop for English, Western and Endurance riders. Located in San Luis Obispo, California, Riding Warehouse offers a wide selection of quality equine products including horse tack, riding apparel, horse trailer and stable equipment, plus gifts for horse lovers. RW everyday mainstays are: Free Shipping & Free Return Shipping (for a year!), Guaranteed Lowest Prices, and Unbeatable Customer Service.

The RW Creed tells you more about the heart and soul of Riding Warehouse and its staff. Get to know each of our crew members' backgrounds and horse interests on our blog's RW Crew Bios page. We welcome you to engage with us in-store, via our website (try live chat!), or social outlets - say 'hello' and share a photo with us on facebook!
Happy Riding!


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Slypner Gear - Quality Gear for Horse & Rider. 
We personally test each product we offer, so we know each one is high quality and will serve our riders well so you can turn to our dedicated team to deliver quality horse care products and the finest riding gear. At Slypner Gear of Claremont, New Hampshire, our large selection of products includes hard-to-find products for trail riders and horse aficionados.

We specialize in products designed especially for the trail rider and horse – from grooming supplies and supplements to saddles and heart rate monitors. We are also the home of Slypner Athletic Horseshoes, designed and developed in Denmark. Our name was derived from the mythological Nordic horse with 8 legs that walked on water, in the air, and over the ground. We strive to offer products that enhance the well being and health of the horse, the weekend warrior and the seasoned competitor. Here you will find high quality products designed for the horse and rider who do it all – just like Slypner!

Slypner Gear is a division of the Slypner Athletic Horseshoe Company located in Claremont, New Hampshire. Building on the concept of Slypner shoes which put the horse’s comfort first, we have sought out superior products for the trail and endurance horse and rider. Our goal is to provide a complete and convenient source for tested products for the trail horse and rider. If you can’t find something you’re looking for on our site please call us and we will try to help you.


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Specialized Saddles - “The worldwide mission of Specialized Saddles is to alleviate horse’s sore backs, resulting from poor saddle fit. Specialized Saddles provides both horse & rider with unequaled comfort.” We are blessed to have made great strides toward achieving this goal. Our customers and their input & support keep Specialized Saddles growing and improving.

Specialized Saddles more popular features are:

* Adjustable stirrup positions (forward, balanced or centered). 

* Patented 3-D (three dimensional) fit system, allowing you to fit multiple horses. 

* Lightweight close contact saddle.

* Custom saddles, built to fit the rider’s specific needs.

The patented adjustable 3-D fitting system developed by David Kaden has greatly improved saddle fit. This improved technology has led to superior performance by horses worldwide, Specialized Saddles has customers and sales representatives around the world.


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Synergist Saddles - Custom saddles for you and your horse or mule and all your riding needs. Whether you are looking for custom Western Trail Saddles, Lightweight Trail Saddles, Endurance Saddles, or English Saddles we have just what you need.

As a custom saddle maker, our saddles are hand made in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Each of our custom made saddles are fit to you and your horse or mule. You’ll also find matching tack, articles about horse care, horse health and saddle fitting.

* Patented EQUImeasure Kit included with every custom order to ensure proper fit of your horse or mule
* With the kit it’s like having your horse or mule right there in the shop
* The fit of your saddle is adjustable for life to accommodate the growing or aging horse or mule
* Saddle can be adjusted for a new horse or mule of similar width back
* For multiple horse needs we can build a generic tree bottom to fit the type of horses you ride


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Taylored Tack - Designed with your horse in mind!

Are you tired of the same old BioThane® and Beta® tack out there? Taylored Tack™ has the solution! We make quality, hand-crafted, unique tack designed with you and your horse in mind. . . . and most importantly, our tack is made in the good ol’ US of A with Stainless Steel hardware, guaranteed not to rust or fade!
Whether it’s an Arab or a Warmblood, size does not matter. Our solution and commitment to you will be to provide unique and beautiful tack . . . that fits properly.

Each Taylored Tack™ product is individually hand crafted by Amanda Taylor, with close attention to detailing down to the last stitch. No other Beta® and BioThane® tack manufacturer comes close to the quality of Taylored Tack™.
Taylored Tack™ is proudly made in the USA

Behind the Lens: Get to Know Endurance Ride Photographer Steve Bradley

by Merri Melde-Endurance.net
March 31 2020

In my "Behind the Lens" series, readers and endurance riders get a glimpse of members of the Endurance Ride Photographers Guild.

The ERPG was formed in 2019, and consists of a group of two dozen professional, skilled photographers from around the USA dedicated to documenting AERC endurance ride events in the USA.

Steve Bradley, of the aptly named Stevesphoto, was sort of roped into endurance ride photography by his wife Cindy. Since spouses are usually part of endurance, photographing the rides was a perfect option.

His photos have been published in Endurance News, Arabian Horse and the now defunct Trail Blazer magazine. "It is both exciting and humbling," Steve says, "to see your photo on a cover or included in a story line."

Where do you live?
Idaho and Arizona, hate the snow and love the warm after 30+ years of shoveling snow.

What is your profession?
Retired from Law Enforcement (just in time)

How did you first get into photography?
I have had a camera around me since High School. I worked as a wildland firefighter and carried a Kodak 110 and took a lot of fire pictures. I started shooting horses after I met my wife who is crazy about Morgan horses. She was into the show horse scene and I kind of naturally started shooting her in the various show classes.

What equipment do you normally shoot with?
Nikon D500, Sigma f 2.8 80-200 and 18-300 Nikon lens, heavy but built like a tank.

When did you start shooting endurance rides?
1999 was my first ride, it was at the “Purple Passion” ride in Eagle, Idaho.

Why do you like shooting endurance rides?
I like the challenge that shooting endurance rides give me. I try to shoot with great background, good footing for the horses, (most of the time) and show the smiles of the riders as they go by me. My goal is to show the connection between the horse and the rider. I have hiked miles up the trails or rode my motorcycle or mountain bike on the same trails that the horses use to get the best shot of the riders that I can.

What are challenges you find in shooting endurance rides?
Lighting, it is very difficult sometimes to get appropriate light, the trails dictate where we must go to shoot and then there are the days when the sun is shining and clouds come over and we have to quickly change the setting on the camera to compensate for that change, ( I shoot manual and do not use any auto settings so got to be fast on the dials).

Another challenge is when ride management has to split the different distances and I try to make sure that all riders that pay an entry get a photo.

What are one or two of your favorite ride shooting stories/adventures/misadventures?
I like to tell people how I got into shooting rides. Cindy (my wife) decided that she wanted to try endurance riding. She was trying to tell me what fun it would be (for her) to ride endurance and I could come and hang out in camp. I just couldn’t see sitting around camp and she figured that out pretty fast (cuz I told her so). So at the Purple Passion ride I had worked a graveyard shift and I went to camp to see Cindy. To my surprise she brought my camera gear down and told Pam, the ride manager I could take photos. So I got the good news when I arrived in camp. I had a Canon AE-1 that was manual everything, no stress there. I think I sold those shots for $2.00 each just to cover developing expenses this was BD, (before digital).

One more story, years ago we traveled all the way from Idaho to Arizona so I could shoot the Old Pueblo ride south of Tucson and Cindy could ride it. I bought a new camera and did not take a lot of time to get familiar with it. End result was I shot 6 rolls of 35MM film, all were under exposed as the light setting was set wrong, I gave that camera away shortly after. Bot the camera's fault, but it made me feel better.

And any other pertinent info you’d like to share with us?
Just want the riders to know all of the ride photographers do the best they can to show both rider and horse in the best light as they go down the trails. If you have a ride photographer at your ride don’t hesitate to ask questions and ask if there is anything we can do to make outstanding photos of you and your equine partner. At the same time please respect our work and follow the rules pertaining to copyright on our photos.

https://stevesphoto.smugmug.com/

Below are a couple of Steve's favorite shots and rides over the years.


Cindy Bradley and Bogar Tucker at the Owyhee Fandango, Idaho


Dave Rabe and Kerry Redente at Mt Carmel, Utah. It's one of 12 shots that Steve took of those 2 galloping by him. The series of pics really shows how in sync the two were running down the trail.


_______

Behind the Lens: Becky Pearman profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/02/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Dave Honan profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Linda Sherrill profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride_16.html

Gillian Larson has Completed the Pacific Crest Trail Twice, On Horseback

REI.com - Full Story

AER PARRIS//AUGUST 30, 2019

And, along the way, she’s learned that the key is meticulous planning.
Steep switchbacks flanked by tall evergreens slowed the progress of Gillian Larson, age 22, and her mother, Jodi Johnson, age 53, hiking the High Sierra Trail in the summer of 2013. As they plodded along, Larson's mom distracted her with the story of Heather "Anish" Anderson, who had just completed a thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in 60 days, 17 hours, and 12 minutes, breaking the previous record by nearly four days. Both were in awe of how many miles Anderson had covered daily, especially as they were struggling with just 10.

“Are horses allowed?” Larson asked, almost immediately. When she returned to her home in Topanga, California, she began researching thru-riding, a term for horseback riding long-distance trails. She learned that others had thru-ridden the PCT, and knew she wanted her horses to come along for the adventure.

Today, Larson, now 27, is one of very few horsepackers to tackle the entire trail—and the only one she knows of to do it twice, in 2014 and 2016. She went on to complete the Arizona Trail and the Colorado Trail in 2017 and is also, as far as she knows, the only person to thru-ride the complete 3,100-mile Continental Divide Trail (CDT). She’s learned a lot along the way—most importantly, that these long-distance trips require a lot of planning...

Read more here:
https://www.rei.com/blog/hike/gillian-larson-has-completed-the-pacific-crest-trail-twice-on-horseback?cm_mmc=sm_18-54_76501-_-content-_-journal-_-CM&fbclid=IwAR3j3JgkDj4iU67B7oIWPXMz7XGk0MFtmjdFe7IYRJu2ocV6ScsoLVRyXbc

US Equestrian Extending Submission Period for Expressions of Interest for Endurance Recognized Affiliate

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Department | Mar 27, 2020, 12:01 PM EST

Lexington, Ky. - Due to the unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the extreme disruption to business this has caused, US Equestrian (USEF) is extending the deadline for submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI) from those organizations interested in being considered for designation as a USEF Recognized Affiliate for the international discipline of Endurance.

Through its announcement released Monday, March 16 2020, USEF opened the submission period which was originally established for three weeks, ending April 6. With the new two-week extension, the submission period will now remain open until 5:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, April 20, 2020.

For organizations seeking consideration as the USEF Recognized Affiliate for Endurance, please click here for the Expression of Interest packet.

Affiliation with US Equestrian offers organizations a host of benefits including access to resources and processes that aid in providing fairness, safety and a level playing field and that provide unique opportunities for expanded reach to build awareness.

To learn more about the Endurance discipline, please visit the USEF Endurance Sport Page.

EOIs must be submitted via the online form accessed within the packet, and all submissions must be received by no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, April 20, 2020.

In order to preserve the integrity of the process and ensure the absence of conflict of interest, any communications issued outside of the online EOI application process must be sent by email to AffiliateEOI@USEF.org.

USEF Update on COVID-19: Suspension Extended

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Department | Mar 25, 2020, 1:30 PM EST

Dear USEF Members and Competition Organizers (Licensees and Managers),

We are all anxious for equestrian sport to start up again and for our families and friends to return to their normal lives pre-COVID-19 Pandemic. We also understand the financial pain that this is having on so many in our industry. We, too, at USEF are feeling that pain. However, we are not through this yet. The pandemic continues to cause unprecedented impact throughout the world. The Las Vegas World Cup Finals were canceled. The Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics are being rescheduled. So, we must all work diligently to address the situation. We greatly appreciate those of you who have joined us in our community-wide effort to responsibly address the COVID-19 virus outbreak by canceling competitions and choosing not to compete during this critical period. This is the only way to flatten the curve of this virus and let us all get back to some level of normal. So as promised, here is an updated position on USEF competitions.

The original 30-day suspension that became effective March 16, 2020, is being extended through May 3, 2020. Effective today, all USEF owned events, selection trials, training camps, clinics and activities will be suspended through May 3, 2020 consistent with recommendations by the CDC. Due to the importance of keeping the members of our equestrian community and their families safe, USEF strongly recommends that competition organizers suspend all USEF licensed competitions across the country and that equestrians do not compete for this same time period. For those competitions that choose to run and can do so in accordance with the CDC, State, and Local recommendations, there will be no accumulation or points, scores, money won, qualifications, or rankings toward any USEF award programs, USEF owned events, or selection to a US team during this time period. This includes USEF National Championships.

Again, we are cognizant of the ramifications that extensions have on the lives of our members, support personnel and the events that fall within this time period, and the significant impact they have on qualifications for, and the operation of, major events that might be occurring later in the year. With that in mind, our President, Murray Kessler, has already informed me he intends to use his Presidential Modification authority to waive mileage rules and allow for major events to be rescheduled later in the year and has instructed us to develop a fair method for altering qualifications for these events. With that direction, USEF has already implemented mechanisms to provide for flexibility and the ability to make necessary modifications to responsibly manage the competition calendar in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are engaging with organizers daily and continue to review situations on a case-by-case basis.

Important Reminder: If you need to cancel a license or have questions about postponing your event to another date, please contact Katlynn Sacco at ksacco@usef.org.

We continue to closely monitor the situation and we pledge to keep you informed about any updates to our position as circumstances warrant or as instructed by Public Health authorities...

More information at:
https://www.usef.org/media/press-releases/usef-update-on-covid-19-suspension-extended

2020 March's Endurance Day on Horses in the Morning

HorsesInTheMorning.com - Listen

Endurance Day, Tom MacGuiness, Online Learning for Endurance Riders, Hoof Balance, Mar. 10, 2020

Mar 10, 2020

Karen Chaton is joined by Tom MacGuinness, who shares why qualifying for WEG 2018 was so important. Sarah Schick talks about hoof balance for equine athletes and Patti Stedman introduces a web based course for Endurance riders. Classic re-visit.

Listen:
http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/endurance-day-tom-macguiness-online-learning-for-endurance-riders-hoof-balance-mar-10-2020/

Endurance Horse Podcast: THE FARM- Interview with Tracy Porter & Shirley May of Milton, WI

EnduranceHorsePodcast - Listen

March 19 2020

Welcome to The Farm Interview with Shirley May & Tracy Porter

Endurance Horse Podcast Hosted by Christina Hyke

I know it is a challenging Spring for those in North America, and for all of us across the world. Though I'd like to wish you all a Happy Spring, it is my hope that we can brighten your first day of spring!

So the best laid plans of mice & men…… Episode 36 of Endurance Horse Podcast was to be on Ride Management, though the recent world health concerns put a damper on my plans to travel around getting several interviews with Ride Managers. I was able to do a few interviews, and just so happened to interview a few friends before the pandemic restricted all the movements and gatherings.

In Episode 36 we will hear from two great horsewomen, mother and daughter, Shirley May and Tracy Porter. We chat about how both of them got into horses, a bit about horse training and yes a little about endurance. Shirley and Tracy operate a 120 acre boarding facility in Milton, Wisconsin

It is my hope that you enjoy this episode getting to know this midwest horse trainer and her mother. And I hope it helps to take your mind away from current events, even if only for a few minutes.

Listen:
https://endurancehorsepodcast.podbean.com/e/the-farm-interview-with-tracy-porter-shirley-may-of-milton-wi/

US Equestrian seeks new affiliate for endurance

Horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article

March 17, 2020
Horsetalk.co.nz

Horse sport’s governing body in the United States is seeking a new affiliate for the discipline of endurance.

The US Equestrian Federation (USEF) is accepting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from organizations interested in being considered for designation as a USEF Recognized Affiliate Organization for the international discipline of Endurance.

Just over a year ago the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC), the USA’s biggest Endurance organisation, voted to cut formal ties with the USEF in a stand against extreme flat-track racing within the discipline. The decision to disaffiliate with the USEF was made by the AERC board on January 14, and the affiliation agreement ended on December 1...

Read more here:
https://www.horsetalk.co.nz/2020/03/17/us-equestrian-affiliate-endurance/

Behind the Lens: Get to Know Endurance Ride Photographer Linda Sherrill

 

by Merri Melde-Endurance.net
March 15, 2020

"Behind the Lens" series is a snapshot, for readers and riders, of the Endurance Ride Photographers Guild members who capture your endurance moments on the trails and in camp.

The ERPG was formed in 2019, and consists of a group of two dozen professional, skilled photographers from around the USA dedicated to documenting AERC endurance ride events in the USA.

Linda Sherrill, of Justus Photography, is a full-time photographer, represented by a stock photo agency in Great Britain, where she was born. She sells photos to various horse magazines each month to illustrate articles, and she's been blessed to have had cover images on Endurance News, Saddle Up magazine, Equus magazine, TrailBlazer magazine, and The Horse magazine, as well as photos featured in books by 17 various authors, and calendars sold by Barnes & Noble.

Linda's business name, Justus, has a unique origin. "There are two men in the Bible named Justus," Linda said. "One was a man who was no one special; he just loved the Lord and did whatever he could to help. That spoke to me; hence the name Justus!"

Where do you live?
Southern New Mexico


How did you first get into photography?
I started photographing Arabian horses at a horse show for a friend in 1992. After that, I was hooked.

What equipment do you normally shoot with?
I shoot with a Canon Mark IV with a 70—200mm f/2.8 lens.

When did you start shooting endurance rides?
I started shooting endurance rides in the midwest in 1996.

Why do you like shooting endurance rides?
I competed in the sport for many years (started in 1987) and I love to still be able to see and visit with friends. I love saying hello to everyone as they go by. It’s nice when you’ve been in the sport this long, and can still find a way to connect.

What are challenges you find in shooting endurance rides?
As I’m sure every ride photographer faces, finding the perfect spot where the sun isn’t against you as the horses go by. It’s a challenge, but I always go out ahead of time and scout locations.

What are one or two of your favorite ride shooting stories/adventures/misadventures?
At the Ft. Stanton ride a few years ago, some Texas riders had just lost a friend to a horse riding accident. I think it meant the world to them to have photos of them all together riding. As they went past me on trail, They stopped in the middle of the trail, lined up for their group photo, and those are still some of the most beautiful photos I’ve taken. The feeling that they all just knew what it meant to have photos of each other.

And any other pertinent info you’d like to share with us?
There is nothing more satisfying as a photographer than to show a rider an image of their horse and themselves going down trail and getting an audible gasp from their reaction. I love what I do and have so many friends and fellow horsemen who appreciate our efforts to come out to the rides and photograph. It makes it all worthwhile!

www.lindasherrill.com

Below are a few shots from a couple of Linda's favorite rides over the years.

These 2 are just a sample of Linda's varied work





 

Trailblazer cover is a sample of Linda's magazine work


2 horses running to finish line are Nat'l Champion and Reserve Champion at the 2011 AERC National Championships at Stanton, New Mexico



Blake Potter riding Julia Lynn’s stallion at Ft Stanton a couple years ago.


_______

Behind the Lens: Becky Pearman profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/02/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Behind the Lens: Dave Honan profile is here:
http://tracks.endurance.net/2020/03/behind-lens-get-to-know-endurance-ride.html

Heart 2 Heart Ranch in Idaho: Mules and Much More

March 16 2020
by Merri Melde-Endurance.net

They are a familiar sight on our local Idaho/Oregon endurance trails: Heart 2 Heart ranch mules, carrying young (mostly) girls who are smiling and laughing as they cover the miles.

Trinity and Jeff Jackson's mules of Heart 2 Heart ranch in Parma, Idaho, have long played an essential role in the Matthews-Jackson families. The long-eared equines work their magic in developing healing bonds with children with disabilities - both mental and physical - and their families.

Trinity's dad Warren has trained or re-trained the Heart 2 Heart mules to make them suitable mounts for Trinity's program. They are used for arena and trail riding and lessons and sessions, and for endurance, rodeo, and parade mounts for Trinity's 'kids.' The idea of the ranch started and came together in the summer of 2009, beginning with 5 kids. Over 11 years, Heart 2 Heart's program has grown to where Trinity has a waiting list. In 2019, last year's roster had 39 kids, working with 16 mules.

Every kid starts one-on-one in the arena with Trinity and a mule. "In the lessons, they're learning how to ride mules, but they're also learning balance and coordination," Trinity said. "Every kid has their own program. I figure out what their goals are, what I see they need; and we put a plan together for them." The plan may just include assisted riding on an older, dependable mule for the more frail children, or advanced riding in competitions, depending on the physical and/or mental needs of the kids. Over time, Trinity matches up the kids with the mule that suits them best; the more experienced endurance riders have to be able to ride all of the mules.

In addition to her full-time teaching and coaching jobs, the ranch is a full-time job also, though it's busiest in the summers, when school is out. "It's a labor of love," Trinity said. Her family - dad Warren, husband Jeff, their 3 girls, sister Jill, and in-laws - have been involved since the beginning. And the entire community supports her program and shows up for the year-end awards in November, which is outgrowing the community church's meeting room.

Heart 2 Heart ranch's story and mules are featured in the March 2020 issue of Mules and More magazine. That's Irish, a 16-year-old Thoroughbred mule in the lead on the cover, at the Autumn Sun Pioneer endurance ride near Gooding, Idaho.

The March issue of Mules and More magazine is available at:
https://www.facebook.com/MulesAndMore/

You can find out more about Heart 2 Heart at
http://www.h2hranch.com/

AERC Statement Regarding Precautionary Measures Amid Coronavirus (COVID-19) Concerns

March 13 2020

Due to concerns regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) and public health, American Endurance Ride Conference is taking precautionary measures and is following the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) guidelines and recommendations on the proper steps to take to help prevent the spread of the virus. AERC continues to closely monitor the developments of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

We understand that some rides will be cancelled or rescheduled over the next few weeks. Some rides will amend their policies regarding, for example, whether meals can be provided.

In accordance with health guidelines and recommendations from the CDC, we encourage our members and volunteers to wash their hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and to make use of the hand sanitizers. Additionally, we recommend that our members and volunteers avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and, for the safety of others, remain at home if they feel ill.

AERC will continue to monitor the situation and follow guidance from the World Health Organization, the CDC, as well as other federal, state and local authorities.

Monica Chapman
AERC President

A Letter from the President and CEO Regarding USEF Licensed Competitions

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Department | Mar 13, 2020, 1:00 PM EST

Dear USEF Members,

Your health, safety and well-being and that of your horses is paramount to USEF. We are continuing to closely monitor communications on the COVID-19 Pandemic from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI).

Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, all USEF owned events, selection trials, training camps, clinics, and activities will be suspended for the next 30 days. Additionally, USEF strongly recommends that competition organizers suspend all USEF licensed competitions across the country for the next 30 days and that equestrians do not compete for the next 30 days. For those competitions that do run, there will be no accumulation of points, scores, money won, qualifications, or rankings toward any USEF awards programs, USEF owned event, or selection to a US team during this 30-day time period. This includes USEF National Championships.

If you choose to compete, USEF recommends that you take immediate steps to limit your exposure and create social distancing. Based on information and guidance, in particular, from the CDC, the USEF provides the following recommendations to our membership. Participate in events that:

Are venues within close proximity (driving distance) to your residence;
Limit out of state competitors (and for currently operating winter circuits limit new out of state competitors);
Restrict free access in stabling areas to only essential personnel (ie; riders, grooms, farriers, vets, officials);
Provide alcohol-based hand sanitizer at in-gates, competition offices, vendors and convenient places throughout the competition grounds;
Ensure restroom facilities are regularly cleaned;
Operate without spectators;
Limit social gatherings to less than 250 people as recommended by the CDC; and
Ensure that food services are of the type that limit contamination, buffets are strongly discouraged.

We are providing these same recommendations to Competition Organizers and asking them to comply within the next few days. Some may choose not to cancel their event but, all are expected to take steps to limit exposure and create social distancing. Some may impose additional restrictions and safety measures in line with guidance from local public health authorities. Therefore, we are requiring organizers to post all relevant information to their website and provide it to the USEF Competitions Department.

We are counting on you to make responsible decisions based on the information available, the conditions in your geographic area and the recommendations from your local public health authorities. USEF will continue to assess the situation on a daily basis and will update our position as circumstances warrant.

Resources from the CDC, WHO, USOPC, and the FEI are available on the USEF website (click here). Links found on this webpage provide you with direct access to valuable information on each organization’s website which is updated regularly.

If you have any questions, please contact us using this email: CustomerCare@usef.org and your inquiry will be addressed by the appropriate department.


Sincerely,
Murray S. Kessler
William J. Moroney

The Horse Show Podcast: S5E7 - Equestrian Legend; Endurance Rider Julie Suhr

Chrisstafford.podbean.com - Listen

March 9 2020

Californian Julie Suhr has broken records in Endurance competitions and milestones in horseback adventures around the globe. Since her first ride in the world renown 100 mile Tevis Cup, Julie has completed twenty-two times out of twenty-nine starts [updated to 33 Tevis Cup buckles]. She has collected three Haggin Cups for the Best Conditioned Horse to finish in the Top Ten and she famously garnered three in one year – the Turtle Award for being last to finish; the Hard Luck Award when her horse fell and she endured a full body mud bath and for being the Oldest rider. With a recorded 30,282 miles in competition which represents 63 one hundred mile rides and almost 500 fifty mile rides, Julie last completed the Tevis Cup at the age of 76 although four years later she made her final attempt and came within two miles of another record finish. Her adventure rides have taken her from the remote expanses of Outer Mongolia to the searing heights of the Himalayas. Julie is the author of Ten Feet Tall Still, Julie and Bob Suhr (deceased) have three children, Barbara, Robert, Nancy (deceased) and John as well as six grandchildren. Julie lives in Scotts Valley, California.

Listen:
https://chrisstafford.podbean.com/e/the-horse-show-s5e7-equestrian-legend-endurance-rider-julie-suhr/?fbclid=IwAR286v0htuoMM1CS_8F_1u2M9JJVwATpvBEeT9VK-q_7L6FWcjJUGSGpjcU

Endurance Horse Podcast: Long Feather Racing

Endurancehorsepodcast - Listen

March 7 2020

Welcome to the Long Feather Racing episode of Endurance Horse Podcast with The Milwaukee Art Museum & Veterans Light Up the Arts

This topic may seem to have little to do with endurance riding, we distance riders are often talking about riding the same horse over many miles, in this episode we talk to a father who manages a racing team that is comprised of his family members. Long Feather Racing Team stands tall among the many skilled teams who participate in Indian Relay Racing.

One rider, 3 horses and many team members comprise the team. Riders must mount bareback on their own power and relay onto three horses to win this race. Though swapping horses, high speeds and bareback seem to have little to do with endurance, I reached out to Richard Long Feather of Standing Rock Reservation to connect with him and listen in as shares his love of Indian Relay Racing.

It is funny how things come together if you track them backwards. As you may know, I had the idea for WARHORSE Endurance ride, that then also led me to loan an idea and name for a second ride to Laura to change the name and theme of her ride. I loaned her the name I had for another ride, Spirit Horse. Laura then spoke to people who gave her the idea to fund raise for an equine program at Rosebud Reservation- which brought me to purchasing the DVD, HORSE NATION, which helped me to find out about the Mankato ride, and the Wounded Knee ride, and then apparently FB suggested Long Feather Racing- and so I found Richard’s family & now Richard is on Endurance Horse Podcast.

Richard’s family works as a team traveling during the racing season covering many miles with typically six horses to care for. This sounded very familiar to the ride camp we all travel around to. I wanted to make a connection with Endurance Horse Podcast and this amazing family. As you can see, what started out as a short interview turned into much more as I found myself enjoying this man’s love for his horses and his home. I hope you all can forgive me as I learn the more technical side of recording. I think that we had a bad phone connection, though I hope you can listen long enough to see what a good horse connection we made.

Sit back, hold on and enjoy the ride!

Christina Hyke

Cheers to 2020!

Listen:
https://endurancehorsepodcast.podbean.com/e/long-feather-racing-also-milwaukee-art-museum-veterans-light-up-the-arts/

AERC Announces New Hall of Fame Members

March 9 2020

At the annual AERC Convention, held over the weekend in Jacksonville, Florida, AERC Newest Hall of Famers were announced at Saturday night's banquet.

Laurie Birch, from Rosamond, California, and her mare Scudd Run were recipients of the Pard'ners Award. The pair have, over 13 endurance seasons, completed 11,155 miles together.

Stagg and Cheryl Newman were co-recipients of Hall of Fame Person(s). From Candler, North Carolina, they are long-time endurance riders, and ride managers of the Biltmore Challenge and supporters of the sport of endurance.

Fire Mt Malabar, owned and ridden by Lee Pearce and Naomi Preston of Baker City, Oregon, was named Hall of Fame horse. With over 8000 miles to his credit over 13 seasons of endurance, the son of Sierra Fadwah recorded his second-highest mileage season last year, with 925 miles. In 2011 the gelding won the National Best Condition award with Lee.

Congrats to all the winners!

2019 AERC High Mileage Standardbred winner announced

USTrottingNews.com - Full Article

March 5, 2020, by Jessica Schroeder, USTA Membership Enrichment and Outreach Coordinator

Columbus, OH — The 2020 American Endurance Ride Conference convention is this weekend, March 6-7, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront in Jacksonville, Fla.

Along with educational seminars, a tack swap and trade show, the National Awards Banquet will be held on Saturday evening. One of the awards announced will be the AERC 2019 High Mileage Standardbred. This year’s winner is last year’s High Mileage Standardbred Solar Partner (a.k.a. Trooper) and Bruce Weary. The award, presented by the USTA since 2011, has only one other team that won back-to-back years.

The now 12-year-old Trooper is by Shark St Partners, out of the Admirals Galley mare Solars Lady B. While Trooper and Weary recorded 520 total miles in 2018, in 2019 they only completed 290 miles at six out of the seven rides they attended. The non-completion ride was Tevis, the 24-hour, 100 mile ride held in California mid-summer each year.

“We just didn’t get to as many rides in 2019,” explained Weary. “At Tevis, my wife and I rode together and she was on a faster Arab. Trooper carried more weight and struggled to keep up at a speed that wasn’t best for him. I still think he could do it with a lightweight rider.”

Weary once again chose a blanket honoring Trooper’s accomplishments with the AERC; he sold the gelding last fall and this will be a way to remember him...

Read more here:
http://ustrottingnews.com/2019-aerc-high-mileage-standardbred-winner-announced/

Two area Montana women take on "world's toughest horse race"

MTStandard.com - Full Article

March 5 2020
Kristine DeLeon

or the next 10 days, two Montana women will be thundering deep into the wilds of Patagonia astride a series of horses they've never met.

With only a steed, a pack horse and minimal supplies, they will be navigating across some of the wildest terrain on Earth attempting to finish one of the toughest and most unusual equine challenges in modern history.

They will face countless problems, possibly encountering dehydration, hypothermia, dysentery, intense sleep deprivation, and overall fatigue.

Even for experienced horse riders, they know this is no mean feat. To top it all off, there will be no prize.

But that’s what Corie Downey of Whitehall and Marie Griffis of Manhattan signed up for when they applied to race in the Gaucho Derby, a 300-mile multi-horse race in Patagonia, Argentina...

Read more here:
https://mtstandard.com/news/local/two-area-women-take-on-world-s-toughest-horse-race/article_fa1c5275-be5c-593c-876c-b5f3e1156ec4.html

The last remaining member of the original Yucaipa Police Department retires

NewsMirror.net - Full Article

Rachael Gustuson
Mar 1, 2020

Torgils Wold was the last remaining member of the original Yucaipa Police Department, transferring to Yucaipa shortly after the city incorporated in 1989. As of Feb. 13, 2020, he is officially retired.

At the station, an overflowing crowd filled up the community room on Feb. 13, to say goodbye to a longtime fixture of YPD Wold and Secretary Kristina King, who will be transferring to another position.

Police Chief James Williams and Lt. James Porter shared Wold’s story with the large law enforcement crowd...

Read more here:
https://www.newsmirror.net/news/local/the-last-remaining-member-of-the-original-yucaipa-police-department/article_552a1e9e-598d-11ea-85ac-972ac4ef2392.html