Club Equestrian

Winning Style

KIMBERLY — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:15:00 GMT

The Grand Prix Wristlet from Femme Stud is the ultimate in great style. The perfect way to be fashionable and show your love of the sport at the same time.

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Fourth to the Future

JOANIE — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 19:05:00 GMT

Ok, this is the beginning of the marathon day – 2 pm Selection Trial followed 7 pm Nations Cup.

Fast and furious and my hand are already freezing. For the record: it was warmer at my parent’s house in Maine at some point yesterday than it was in South Florida. FYI… for those that think I am making up. The tomato crops are in grave danger and the price for tomatoes is through the roof. So cherish your caprese salads. Those things are going to be valuable.

Just walked this afternoon’s course, technical and spooky – a change from the question of scope Guilherme asked on Wednesday.

He does such great job – and his assistant Mauricio is so nice – Guilherme is currently sporting the Road to Kentucky jackets that our USEF Marketing coordinators are hawking at the USEF booth. They are selling out quick – if you're here, get one, if you're not, don’t forget to watch the live final USEF Selection Trial as part of the $150,000 CN US Open on the webcast on www.universalsports.com (shameless plug).

Ok, so 24 hours later, I am still working on this. Yesterday was a crazy day – I was at the venue from 8.00 am to almost midnight. The Nations Cup was great – tons of atmosphere and plenty of rowdy fans.. Unfortunately for the US, the wheels fell off a little bit in the second round. Casadora spooked badly at some raucous Mexican fans behind a white gate and stopped – very uncharacteristically. She had the rail at the second attempt. The US camp was disappointed – Lauren Hough more than anyone. Canada looked good, and will continue to be a Tour de Force heading to the World Games.The Mexicans and US-based Irish team looked great and really stepped up in the second round.

We didn’t field our strongest team because of the selection trials running simultaneously but the up and coming horses look great. Apache and United both look very promising for the future.
I am tired of typing, I have a bowed tendon in my left hand which has now resonated up my arm into my shoulder – so I am stopping typing, going to a meeting. No promises of more until tomorrow.

Currently watching Canadian veteran Ian Millar jump in the $25,000 ESP Jumper Stake. He really is a legend.

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In the Meantime, $2.6 Million

JOANIE — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:11:00 GMT

Its still cold in Florida. And when there is no where to go inside – it’s not entirely pleasant.

CSIO week is underway, the Welcome class is going on now in the International Arena and currently SRF Dragonfly is in the ring. The chestnut gelding jumped like a stag in 2008 in the Selection Trials for the 2008 Olympic Games for Nicole Shahinian Simpson and he is now representing Brazil.

With 11 teams in the Nations Cup, Friday’s class promises to be a good one, there are some of the best in the world here to jump for honors. I went to the Fasig-Tipton 2-year-old sale yesterday st Calder to try to round up more fans for the US team – the problem is, most of my racing friends aren’t American. I think I shamed them in to coming anyway though and waving the American flag.

I spent more time in the car than I did at the sale, the Florida Turnpike or Florida’s Turnpike as it says on the sign, as well as a certain police officer who kindly reminded me that I was driving a little quicker than he would like, and I are all friends after that adventure.

I also saw a Distorted Humor colt sell for more than $2 million. The story, trust me this is the abridged, third hand version goes something like this: two friends spent $200k on a yearling, first try they took at pinhooking a Thoroughbred, and parlayed it into $2.3m less than a year later.

Nicely done.

Jess Jackson’s Stonestreet Stable, LLC (of Curlin and Rachel Alexandra fame) signed the ticket – and perhaps he has a third legend in the making. Fasig-Tipton’s website has the results for anyone interested: http://www.fasigtipton.com/.

It poured with rain Florida style yesterday, pouring one minute, sunny the next – rain the next… etc. I helped Lizzy Chesson deliver stuff, thankful for the golf cart as the puddles and sand made it some dirty work. Then made sure the rest of the USEF crew get organized and gave them the 10 cent tour of the venue, they are selling great USEF Selection Trials merchandise for the rest of the week right across from the Tiki Bar – if anyone here is looking for some retail therapy, you can find Road to Kentucky gear at the USEF booth.

They whole selection Trials contingent moves across Southshore today for the third trial on the grass in the Stadium. Should be great to see the horses in a new venue, Hillary Dobbs leads the 33 remaining in the Trials with one fault on Quincy B. That class goes at 3 PM. More later.

See: http://www.clubequestrian.com/photos/gallerylistbyuser/Sailorthedog/2275.aspx for photos, can't get them in the blog for some reason.

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A fun way to stay organized

KIMBERLY — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:34:00 GMT

Keep your horse's data handy and always available with EquiAgenda©. In addition to a Calendar, it has 24 beautiful photos by noted equine photographer, Paula da Silva. Starting from the month you buy this app, it allows you to track all of the important events in the life of your horse. With a quick glance, you can see vet appointments, medications, farrier, foaling, competitions, supplements and dietary notes for as many horses as you like! You can even upload a photo of your horse which will show as its avatar.

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Want to Keep Your Horse Disease Free?

Equine U — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:40:00 GMT

With the upcoming competition season, your horse is more at-risk for contracting contageous diseases. Learn how to prevent this and how to handle an outbeak should one occur. The Education page on the USEF website will now have links to various Educational materials relating to all matters of the horse and horse care. We have just posted a very informative presentation from Dr. Amanda House from the University of Florida on Preventing Infectious Disease in the Competition Horse: Vaccination and Biosecurity. Learn how/when/what kind of vaccintations to give, clinical signs of common diseases, and how to prevent them from spreading to other horses.

Also new to the Education page are the presentations and handouts used at the 2010 Licensed Competition Seminar. We have included a chart for each breed/discipline outlining the basic requirements you will need to put on that type of competition. The "Licensed Competition Handbook" will take you step by step through all the stages of planning planing your competition from beginning to end.

The Education page is located at http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/LicensedOfficials/clinics.aspx. Check back soon for new items!

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Just Two

JOANIE — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:33:00 GMT

The level of jumping continues to be extraordinary in Florida. Cedric and Quick Study are certainly in a class of their own last night but there are many, many others just one stride behind.

The amazing thing about coming to the Winter Equestrian Festival is the total immersion in some of the best horses in the country. Even if you are just sitting at the deNemethy ring watching the Junior classic or hanging out by the warm-up of ring seven. Even those horses are some of the very best of their kind at what they do. I like watching the best horses do what they do. Whatever that may be.

I caught the beginning of the 1.50m class today and was hugely impressed by Alaska, Todd Minikus sure does ride well – and he really can show off a nice horse. I mean, he used to ride bulls, so a nice jumping horse really makes him look good. I then watched the USA v. Canada hockey game. Holy (enter expletive here)! That was amazing too, I had the incredible misfortune of watching it with Canadians… but it was good sport nonetheless.

What else is going on here?

Crossgate Gallery is set up at WEF with all of their unbelievable sporting art. They are donating 10% of everything they sell to the USET Foundation… go be amazed if nothing else.

I hope you have all played the WEG Pick 8, it took some doing but it was a great team effort on behalf of the USEF staff to get it live and they deserve all the credit… fantasy horse sports? Yes please.

I found out today by way of facebook that a marvelous horse I sold to an Adult/Amateur from Kentucky last year just arrived in Wellington, I will have to go give him a scratch on the head – what a wonderful racehorse turned show horse. I mean you wouldn’t find a more fun horse to gallop down to a jump on even if he didn’t want to jump into the water on the cross country – he has found a job where he truly is a movie star.

I have to move out of my wonderful digs in the Polo Club (thanks to a great friend) and go to Del Ray for two days… the commute will be worth a glimpse of the beach.

I AM SO SAD THE WINTER OLYMPICS ARE OVER!

I'm sure Bode will find a way without me.

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Lucky 13

JOANIE — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 20:17:00 GMT

I know half the country is again paralyzed by a blizzard, but it was cold in Florida yesterday.

Seriously.

Winter hats, gloves, scarves, jackets – for some reason (even though I didn’t check the weather) I managed, in the most unorganized packing effort ever, to pack warm clothes. And my gloves were in my purse – sheer luck.

The jumping in the first round of the USEF Selection Trials was awesome. 13 clear rounds was a surprise to everyone. If it is any indication of the level of jumping in the US then we are in great shape. This means in the trials standings all 13 are tied at the top.

Georgina Bloomberg had two clear rounds and was the only one to manage that feat, but there are some really nice horses in the mix. Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Tristan looked great in their clear round and little Cedric jumped his heart for Laura Kraut.

Ashlee Bond and Chivas Z , Hillary Dobbs and Quincy B, Brianne Goutal and Ralvesther and Kent Farrington and Uceko represented the under-30 crowd (along with Georgina) in the clear round department.

But the most ‘experienced’ set of the US riders was represented too: Todd Minikus, Margie Engle and Rich Fellers were the fastest three and joked that they might be the oldest three in the class.

Not going to confirm or deny that one.

Lauren Hough was ever the professional on Quick Study and Beezie Madden didn’t let on that she and Coarl Reef Via Volo were brand, brand new together.

17-year-old Kelsey Thatcher had one time fault to stay right in the mix but as Todd said: “It’s easy to have a rail.”

And 11 horses did just that.

Trying to catch up on email, watching the 1.40m class and not feeling at all creative. It’s been crazy here… and cold BUT I did see cute little Ace who is leading this class at the halfway point, I haven’t seen him in person since Vegas!

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I love vintage

KIMBERLY — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:51:00 GMT

Sometimes that perfect piece you are searching for can be very elusive. High Street Market has some wonderful vintage equestrian items and tons of other fun and unique items. Here are a couple of sneak peaks. Check out www.highstreetmarket.blogspot.com for more great finds.

Vintage Brass Horse $38.00

1950s ceramic horse, $68.00

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A sweet way to keep your horses close to your heart

KIMBERLY — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:58:00 GMT

Wouldn't this necklace from Cinnamon Sticks be so sweet with the names of your horses.

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Liza Boyd and Brunello Win 14th Annual AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular

Diana DeRosa — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 19:14:00 GMT

I always breathe a sigh of relief once the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular is over. It’s not because I don’t enjoy the class but it is because it takes a lot of work from all of us to organize this very special event. Each year we wait in anticipation of who the winner will be and how that victory unfolded. This year only 3 ½ months after giving birth to her first child that victory went to 30-year-old Liza Boyd, Camden, SC, and Brunello over a Richard Jeffrey designed course.

In the press conference following the victory celebration Liza admitted that after Texan Peter Pletcher and Vibe negotiated 91 in their second round she realized she’d have to go for it. She knew that Brunello didn’t have the elegant stride that Vibe has but what he does have is a brilliance that shines if she rides for the gold. And ride she did to combine her first round score of 91 with a second round score of 91.83 which squeaked by Vibe’s 179.16 to her two-round score of 182.83.

Proving that motherhood wasn’t going to get in the way of her abilities (although these days she thinks being a mom is pretty grand) she went out there in the Internationale arena to prove to herself that she still has what it takes.

It is the staff behind the event and the Equestrian Sport Production incredible facility that helps to give Boyd and the other competitors the ability to be showcased. The staff behind the Hunter Classic spends all year and especially the last two months working diligently to organize the event. The week before is when the final riders qualify and the list to compete is named. This year there were 31 people on that list all primed to try to earn that coveted championship title.

I spent a lot of the week taking photos and watching both the veterans and up-and-coming horses and riders negotiate courses throughout the week in hopes of earning championship or reserve honors since that is what is needed to qualify.

At night I would view those photos and have a chance to notice how both the riders and horses get better and better. It wasn’t just the beauty of the horses that we now call hunters that inspires me but the whole atmosphere of these showgrounds and how the top hunter and jumper riders in the nation call this home for many of the winter months. What a great place to showcase our sport.

The day leading up to the final evening event is a bit stressful because the final horses don’t qualify until that day. And so there we are trying to organize the list of competitors in between all the other details required to organize an event of this magnitude.

The major players are Executive Director Michele Perla and her assistant Colleen Costich. President Keeley Gogul could be seen throughout the week helping out wherever she was needed. Kim Tudor and her Tudor & Company are the ones that organize the ever famous fundraising dinner, an event that has truly become the social event of the season for the hunter world. Family and friends have decided this is the place to be and they come in hoards to support this great organization.

While buying a table can be a bit pricey it is the AHJF’s major fundraiser for the year. Yet, the event isn’t limited to those that want to be in the main tent. In fact entry is free to the general public. So, it gives everyone a chance to mix and mingle, watch the show and enjoy some of the shopping and fast food provided on the grounds.

As the day progresses I feel like a clock is ticking in my mind. Since I write the story and take the photos I’m focused on where I have to be when. It was 6:00 p.m. when the riders walked the course and the grooms walked the horses around the arena. From 6:30 to 7:00 I was up in the tent capturing the first people to arrive at the elaborate dinner. By 7:00 it was back to the arena to capture a few awards presentations and the parade of the competitors. By 7:30 the first horse was on the course of the field of 31 who had qualified.

I didn’t look at my clock when the first of eight horses came back for the jump-off round and apparently neither did most of those who came to enjoy the evening. You could hear laughter and conversation happening everywhere but when a brilliant round was put in you could also hear the appreciation of the audience. It was inspiring to witness their admiration for these top hunter competitors.

Once the class was over the presentation of the awards is an event to behold because in addition to the $42,200 that is shared by the top 12 competitors with $12,000 going to the winner is a bounty of gifts for them to take away.

The ultimate moment of the evening is when the winner takes the victory gallop. I love getting those pictures because it gives me that chance to capture the winner in action but also marks the end of another successful event.

At the press conference that followed that success Boyd, Pletcher and Louise Serio (who finished third on Castle Rock) could not express enough how important this class is to them. In a word it’s not just a competition but it truly is the place to compete and/or attend for anyone who has an appreciation for hunter riders and hunter horses.

And so with that another AHJF Hunter Classic is over and is considered the kick-off of the season for many hunter riders. Yet, every one of those riders is thinking ahead to next February in hopes that will be their year for a victory in the 15^th annual AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular.

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The Art and Mind Behind the Poster in the words of the Artist Gretchen Almy

Diana DeRosa — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 02:21:00 GMT

This blog is going to be mostly in the words of the artist that created the 2010 AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular poster. Gretchen Almy has a wonderful way that she works from a photograph to create her own design. Here's how Gretchen explained the evolution of this year's poster:

"In many cover contests, I have already created the artwork. Where the AHJF Hunter Classic differs, is once you've been chosen you start the creative process from scratch. The beauty of this process is that it allows for more creative flexibility. It is also a great opportunity to work with the organizers of the event to produce something special, unique and truly representative of their event.

Thanks to the generosity of the photographers loaning the use of their images as reference, I had a variety to choose from. From the photographs submitted, most were of the traditional hunter jumping shots. My preference was to create in my own style and from a unique dramatic perspective. Thanks to the creative eye of Diana De Rosa, I chose another one of her images as reference for the art (I chose one of her images last year as well.) I appreciated the fact that her photo captured a moment that was not focused on the "competitive" side of the event. Initially what attracted me to the image was the artistic angle - from behind. But the photo had more to offer, the soft, happy, expression of the horse, the relaxed feel of the rider, the correct position of the rider, the lighting and the fact that part of the horse was cropped out of the image. These facets inspired me to create the artwork using the image as my sole reference.

The focus of my artwork is typically centered on the horse and rider. However, when creating a graphic poster, I try to produce a background with imagery that represents a specific location but doesn't compete with the foreground. So I thought what's more "Florida" than palm trees, but simplified? I also liked the negative space that the tents were creating. Instead of using a typical Florida palette of bright colors as I did last year, I wanted to incorporate a more subtle and traditional palette(in respect to the Hunter discipline). Therefore I chose a muted green/blue palette allowing the horse and rider to really "pop."

Once approved and then in collaboration with the event organizers, I experimented with a mix of border colors that would enhance the muted green hues. We agreed on the maroon block that complemented the greens, as well as graphically allowed for a place to put the event information. Art can be a random process and often hard to describe in words. However there is always an internal understanding of one's subject matter, color palette, composition, and in some instances, external input to help pull a piece together...there is great satisfaction when you know you've reached that point. I am really happy with the way this piece evolved."

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AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular: The Calm Before the Storm

Diana DeRosa — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 02:41:00 GMT

I arrived in Florida on Saturday night to the Southern Palm Bed and Breakfast in Loxahatchee, FL. When I got into my room and turned on the TV thumbing through the channels I stopped when on one of the channels I was watching a dressage competition that had taken place at the FTI Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. That’s the same place that the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular will be taking place.

Today when I got to the showgrounds I got a call from fellow journalist Ken Braddick. Ken is involved in a new venture to televise in prime time and high definition extensive and timely coverage of premiere jumping, dressage and polo from South Florida on WHDT World Sports based in West Palm Beach, FL. The network covers four events a week; typically the WEF Challenge Jumping (Friday), Dressage (Saturday), Main Event of the PBIEC week (Sunday) and featured Sunday polo from the International Polo Club (broadcast on Monday).

One of the nights they cover is Saturday night (and the show is then broadcast on Sunday at 8:00 p.m. on Comcast Ch. 17 or 438 (HD), DirectV44 and ATT1044. Ken said he was interested in covering the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular but wanted some freedom to add some life to the hunter competition. So, the plan is to do coverage of the dinner and the competition but to also get some color commentary from the riders as they leave the arena and an overview of what to look for in a hunter round. It’s pretty exciting news.

A day earlier I was in touch with Kim Tudor, president of Tudor & Company. Kim oversees the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular dinner among numerous other social functions. Kim also hosts a half hour radio show called "TudorTalks" on SeaView Radio 95.9FM/960AM at 12:00 pm every Saturday and has invited AHJF to be featured on the show. Kim has invited AHJF president, Keeley Gogul, and myself, to come on the air as guests of the show to chat about the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular of Palm Beach and the AHJF Emergency Relief Fund. We also have the opportunity to podcast on the AHJF website.

Kim is using this opportunity to create awareness of charitable and social events occurring in and around the Palm Beach area. SeaView Radio reaches as far North as Port St. Lucie, as far South as Boca Raton, and as far West as Indiantown. "I hope to encourage the listening audience to take part in the social events taking place in the neighborhood, to give them the chance to have some fun while giving back to the community."

So our week has barely begun and already great things are on the horizon.

Sunday the AHJF hosted a different kind of event. Bowling for Equestrians is an event geared to raise money for the benevolent arm of the organization, the Emergency Relief Fund. ERF has helped numerous people over the years by providing close to $500,000 to worthy recipients. It could be someone facing a life-threatening illness, an equine-related accident, a flood, a fire or some other catastrophic situation. When the night of fun and camaraderie was over, the AHJF collected close to $32,000.

My favorite quote from the evening came from Gerry Briggs, who was a recipient of the fund when he had to undergo heart surgery. Gerry commented, “What better way to spend an evening then by have fun with friends for a worthy cause.” That comment truly says it all.

I spent Monday reading through the comments of the many raffle recipients. Those comments had one constant theme: “fun” was the word just about everyone said to define the evening. You can read more about this event in the press release on this site and take a look at the many photos of the award winners and raffle recipients. It really was a fun time.

Tuesday was a preparation day because the show competition doesn’t start until Wednesday. So, today was setup day and a chance to wander around the showgrounds. There was a lot or horses doing their thing in the arena but it was still rather peaceful. It felt like the calm before the storm.

That storm starts on Wednesday when I’ll be capturing a lot of the action with my camera and will be sure to post those photos for you to see. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email me at dsderosa@ipellc.net or add a comment below.

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Hunter Week Begins in Florida for the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular

Diana DeRosa — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 20:44:00 GMT

Anytime I travel there are always mixed emotions. I look forward to the destination but not the journey. By that, I am not just talking about the actual flying time and lugging of my camera and computer equipment but the home and office preparation required for any long trip. This is my 10th year heading down to Florida to handle the PR for the AHJF Hunter Classic Spectacular and even today it amazes me at what a unique idea this event truly was and still is.

The American Hunter-Jumper Foundation is an organization that was the vision of well-known hunter riders and trainers Louise Serio, Geoff Teall and others whose efforts all made the vision become a reality. The idea of the Hunter Classic was to showcase the hunters in a way they’d never been before. So, a class under the lights at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida, was the beginning of a real breakthrough for getting visibility.

The first time I had the honor of seeing this class in action was in 2000. I remember being in awe of how many people were in attendance to watch hunters. I realized that somehow the AHJF, with the help of then Gene Mische, Michael Morrissey and others, managed to create a hunter event that people actually wanted to attend. Over the years the management has changed but the visibility of this class and the importance it holds for hunter riders has not wavered.

The battle to get in is serious as riders visit the tent all week long to check out their status (and take a few snacks). Of course they are in it to win it but they also feel a need to qualify to be among the 25 or so riders who make the cut. Getting in the class already says “you are a winner.”

Last year after Kelley Farmer won the class aboard Early Applause, the owner of the horse, Larry Glefke, oozed with compliments about the class. Yet it was one statement that captured my attention. He called it the Kentucky Derby of hunters. That’s a pretty big compliment. And for the winner it is like winning the Derby, the Hunter Derby that is.

When I think back at what strikes me most, it’s not just any one thing. It’s a combination of the support it receives both in and outside the fundraising dinner tent. The dinner attracts hundreds of people and benefits the AHJF and its programs. Those that sit on the sidelines are often the local folk who have come to realize that the AHJF has figured out a way to make the hunters fun to watch. That enjoyment is helped along by the variety of boutiques and fast food that can be purchased and the chance to mingle with friends.

Yet it’s not just about those watching but also about appreciating those competing in the class. They jump a course at night in the huge international arena, where normally the hunters are the ones being featured. The course is a bit more challenging and includes a wider variety of fences to make it more exciting to compete in. Before the class begins there is a parade of the competitors allowing the audience to get to know who is competing while the riders get their chance to be recognized. And at the end of the class a victory gallop and awards presentation is the added bonus.

In the early days the surrounding area around the arena was grass, which people would sit on. That grass has now been replaced by seats, which makes it possible for even more people to attend and so you see people doing their own kind of tailgating.

The event doesn’t take place until Saturday night, and we’ve got a lot of preparation to do before then but I’ll be here all week long to update you.

In the meantime, my focus today is on another AHJF event. Bowling for Equestrians is all about strikes and spares that bring in money for the Emergency Relief Fund, one of the truly bonus organizations that the AHJF founded. This philanthropic division of the AHJF assists equestrians in a time of financial crisis. The monies come from the AHJF, private gifts and other donations such as the Capital Challenge Horse Show and each WCHR horse show member event. All donations are tax deductible as charitable contributions. Established in 1995, over the past 11 years the ERF has assisted numerous equestrians and distributed over $450,000.

I’ll be there with my camera and will be posting pictures from the event. So, be sure to come back all week long to this special AHJF section at Club Equestrian.

In the meantime, if you have comments or questions feel free to email me at dsderosa@ipellc.net or leave a comment on the blog. I always enjoy hearing from people who have a passion for horses.

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People in Florida are on to Something

JOANIE — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 18:48:00 GMT

The price I paid for three glorious days in the Florida sunshine was a snow covered car and 22 degree temperatures in Lexington when I returned this morning.

It was worth it.

GLORIOUS

Seeing Ravel and Steffen Peters win the grand Prix at the Exquis World Dressage Masters was well worth the harsh reality of home. Ravel has grown up, improved and changed since I last saw him in 2009. He looks fantastic and just romped through the Grand Prix with ease for Steffen leaving two of the very best (Salinero and Satchmo) in his wake.

Friday was a day of meetings and wandering around at the horse show before the USET Foundation Party where I saw Bruce Springsteen and almost died of happiness. It was also fun to catch up with all kinds of friends I haven’t seen in ages. Georgina Bloomberg, Phillip and Evie Dutton, Kevin Keane were all in attendance, the Foundation threw a great party – they raised plenty of money and everyone had a lovely time at the International Polo Club’s elaborate tent. Jenny van Wieren and I debated buying WEG Dressage Discipline Manager Lloyd Landkamer the WEG Dressage Package in the silent auction (FREE ON SITE PARKING) in his absence, when we informed him over text messaging he didn’t see the humor… we thought we were hilarious. People with far deeper pockets than us bought the packages and our teams look to be on the right track with the beginning season and their fundraising effort.

Plans for 2010 NAJYRC are well underway and everyone in Florida seems pretty pumped. Allyn Mann – our most enthusiastic supporter from our title sponsor Adequan – was there because they are sponsoring this week of the horse show and it is hard not to catch Allyn’s enthusiasm.

Saturday morning started with a phone call from Evie who was stranded because the Philadelphia airport was closed due to the blizzard. We got her fetched from the airport and then all met at the horse show where we watched Leslie Morse win in the Grand Prix Special, in a much improved effort from Thursday and then next door watched Cedric – the hugely popular diminutive Gold medalist from 2008, jump to second in the 1.50m class. Laura Kraut gave him a great ride and he looked brilliant in his prep for the USEF Selection Trials for the US Show Jumping Team for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games which get going at the end of the month.

Standing in the sunshine never felt so good.

Leslie and Tip Top Strutting Their Stuff

Work, work, work around the horse show (I think I spent 12 hours there yesterday) and then a quick snack before the Grand Prix Freestyle started.

Ravel returned to the ring in all his glory, very fresh and the crowd went wild. Some little mistakes didn’t take away from a brilliant ride but Anky and Salinero were pretty perfect and even Steffen’s one-handed changes weren’t enough to sneak by the reigning Olympic Gold medalist. Steffen, as always handled the entire thing with class and dignity. Isabell Werth was third – the three of them were the classiest of acts.

Hopefully everyone got back to their respective places... but there are way worse places to be stuck than in Wellington.

Back to the grind tomorrow – the grind just isn’t as fun when its freezing.

Sue Stickle and I Having Some Fun

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Florida Hunter/Jumper Clinics Recap

Equine U — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 21:34:00 GMT

It’s been quite some time since we posted something new to our blog. It has been pretty much nonstop since December, starting with the holidays and then USEF’s Annual Meeting the second week of January. On top of all the regular committee meetings at Annual Meeting, the Education department also held an Andalusian/Lusitano judges’ clinic and a Licensed Competition Seminar. Afterward we had one week back in the office before heading to West Palm Beach, FL for a round of Hunter/Jumper judges’ clinics.

Sunday started with Hunter Breeding judges and applicants. We held a classroom session at the hotel and then live conformation evaluation at Marabet Farm. Maggie Fullington graciously allowed the group to come to her farm, and she provided an outstanding lineup of American bred Warmbloods of various ages for practice judging. All of us thoroughly enjoyed spending time at this beautiful farm, looking at beautiful horses in the warm sunshine. Check out Marabet’s website at http://marabetfarm.us/index.html.

Monday morning we began the Jumper Judge’s clinic, followed by the first session of the Hunter/Hunter Seat Equitation judges’ clinic in the evening. Also that evening, we offered a Jumper Schooling Supervisor Certification course for those interested in becoming certified.

Tuesday was the second session of the Hunter Judges’ clinic, and was by far the most well attended day. Registering all 127 attendees was no easy task, but thankfully we have a trio of local volunteers that help us out every year. Sarah Hayes, Beth Vargas, and Allison Vargas have faithfully helped at the Hunter/Jumper clinics for 9 years, and I don’t know how we would manage without them!

After the morning classroom session, all 127 attendees headed to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center to view mock Hunter and Equitation classes. It was another gorgeous Florida afternoon, and the show grounds are fantastic. Attendees watched Model, Hunter, Handy Hunter, and Equitation classes while the panelists commented on the rides.

After the 3 days of clinics, we decided to take a few much-needed days off and went to Disneyworld. After all, what’s a trip to Florida without seeing its most famous resident? Chuck stayed in Florida for the Jumper Course Designer and Hunter Course Designer clinics early this week, and then will make stops at the Paso Fino Judges’ clinic (conducted by PFHA) and the American Driving Society Combined and Pleasure Driving clinic for judges and technical delegates this weekend.

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International Protocol

Sarah Conrad — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:21:00 GMT

So if you live in Lexington, KY, like I do, you know that the world will be coming to your door in less than eight months for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. If you are a local business owner or will be volunteering or working at the event, how do you avoid making some of the following cultural blunders:

Making any kind of body contact with someone of Asian culture.
Shaking hands with a female of Muslim culture.
Showing the bottom of your foot to someone of Islamic culture.
Handing your business card with one hand to someone from China (versus using two hands).

The list could go on and on. How is one to keep it all straight? One way is to attend one of the seminars being promoted in an article by Business Lexington. The speaker comes with a background in public relations and political consulting. If you’re interested in finding out more, read the article here.

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How to get in the mood for Spring

KIMBERLY — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:58:00 GMT

Go out and get yourself a fun new skirt like this galloping filly skirt from Anthropologie.

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More Meetings and Time for Winners

EQUESTRIANEditor — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 15:23:00 GMT

Thursday at the 2010 USEF Annual Meeting saw a blizzard of meetings and attendees rushing from one conference room to the next in an attempt to cover as much ground as possible and to share in ideas and opinions on a vast slate of topics.

Licensed Officials, Connemara/Welsh, Roadster, Arabian, Eventing, Dressage, Hackney, Breeders, National Show Horse, Morgan, Western and Carriage Driving were just some of the breeds and disciplines of equestrian sport that had committee meetings during the day. Of course, the biggest attended meeting was the Board of Directors meeting that took place late in the day for several hours.

USEF staff were spread far and wide in their work to ensure that all of the meetings were going as planned and I spent a bit of time alongside two longtime USEF staff members - Lisa Owens (Assistant Executive Director of Horse and Competition Services) and Jennfier Keeler (Director of National Dressage Programs). As always, we seemed to be able to laugh at the frantic pace and the hundreds of requests that come our way. To laugh during times of stress is a very valuable personality trait! After the Board of Directors meeting was the first in a series of galas to celebrate and spotlight achievements in sport in the 2009 competition calendar.

The Silver Stirrups Awards, presented by the Performance Horse Registry, started with a cocktail reception (should every event start with a cocktail reception?), and the leading sires, owners and breeders were honored during the plated dinner and awards program. Ken Ball, Director of the PHR, served as one of the night’s award presenters, and Charlotte Skinner, well-known equestrian announcer provided her wonderful services as emcee for the evening. Trophies and ribbons were presented to an impressive gathering of equine owners, and images of many of the top sires were displayed behind the owners as they came to the stage to be photographed and presented their awards.

Members travelled from across the country to pick up their Silver Stirrups honors, there were quite a few who left with more than one award. For breeders, there is no award higher in the Federation (with possibly the exception of the USEF Breeder of the Year Award presented during the Pegasus Awards) that can match the prestige of the PHR’s Silver Stirrup.

When the Jockey Club launched the PHR in 1994, many Thoroughbred owners raced to register their horses in what would become known as the first central database in North America to combine pedigree and performance records of Thoroughbreds and half-Thoroughbreds, documenting the influence of the breed in events away from the track.

This is where the first Silver Stirrup Awards were presented in an effort to recognize, reward and promote excellence.

Two short years later in 1996, the PHR expanded its scope to focus on building a database for the entire sport horse industry, spurred by the support of industry organizations, such as the American Horse Shows Association, the United States Equestrian Team and the Federation of North American Sport Horse Registries. This fulfilled one of the registry’s primary commitments, to provide owners and breeders complete information on which to base future buying and breeding decisions.

Many positive changes followed in the years to come, including a move from the Jockey Club to the American Horse Shows Association, now the United States Equestrian Federation, in September of 2000. In 2004, PHR became part of the USEF, and is now considered an official branch of the National Governing Body. With the move, the registry became the source for sport horse breeding for the Federation. Now the lineage of horses competing in the United States can be tracked and honored.

All breeds are now eligible for registration with the Performance Horse Registry in an effort to develop a comprehensive database of pedigrees and breeding influence on the sport horse world.

In addition, the Silver Stirrup Awards continue to recognize performances of PHR horses at all levels of competition in every major discipline, including widespread recognition in dressage and eventing disciplines. The program also recognizes leading sires, owners and breeders. Once registered with the PHR, a horse may be nominated for inclusion in the awards program on an annual or a lifetime basis.

Today, a “dry tech” is planned to run through all the videos and scripts for the remaining award programs and galas. It’s sure to be a busy afternoon of last minute “tweaks” and script edits. Always a fun and frantic time, but its part of the behind-the-scenes fun at the USEF Annual Meeting.

So…more committee meetings and luncheons, followed by the evening’s big party – the awarding of the 2009 USEF Horse of the Year awards, where one very special horse will be named the overall Horse of the Year!

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Fun, Food and Friends...The 2010 USEF Annual Meeting Kicks-Off

EQUESTRIANEditor — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:46:00 GMT

January is time for new beginnings. A fresh start.

It’s also the time each year when the administrators, movers-and-shakers, the USEF general membership and the media gather together for a long weekend of meetings, discussions, debates and several of the year’s most anticipated galas. It’s known as the USEF Annual Meeting, and it’s now underway in Louisville, KY.

As is tradition, Wednesday night serves as the Welcome Reception where everyone has a chance to party before the real work gets underway. This year was no exception with a fantastic cocktails served atop the downtown Hyatt hotel’s 360-degree revolving lounge. But, making the trek from our hotel to the site of the reception – which was not that far, but through a series of Habitrail type connecting tubes from building-to-building – provided a tougher than expected challenge for those of us who are “directionally challenged.” You might say I’m the “dumbest smart person” you know.

With fellow staffer Jenny Van Wieren, we took off to find the food and fun at a place called The Spire. We were told to cross the connector, go through a covered parking lot, through another hallway to a set of elevators. Simple enough, right? Well, upon reaching the elevators, we noticed a bit of signage that read, “Use outer elevators…”. Looking at each other, and thinking the same thing, we decided we needed to find the OUTER elevators – as in those that were outside the level of the hotel in which we were standing. Back into the cold corridors that connect the buildings in downtown Louisville, we scratched our heads and laughed. What else could two people with advanced college degrees do? Right?

Soon, we found ourselves in a large group of 20 or so people who were both thirsty for cocktails and ready to sit down and have some fun and good conversation. Returning to the series of three elevators in line with each other, I looked at the sign again, still to be dumb-founded at what in the world “outer” elevators meant. Was this some cryptic language? A test of mental acumen? Was I being filmed and “Punk’d”? Would Ashton jump out and point and laugh as TV crews filmed my stupidity?

Out of the crowd comes one of my favorite “movers-and-shakers” – Cecile Hetzel Dunn. Of course, she walks to the front of the elevator bank and reads the sign – the WHOLE sign. This is where I dubbed myself the night’s “dumbest smart person” in America. Just beneath the “Use the outer elevator” line was the really important part of the directions that I blithely choose to ignore – “Center elevator does not access the Spire.”

Right…I felt THAT stupid once I realized there was a series of three elevators – two outer and one inner elevator. After running all over the downtown Habitrail system and trying to find “outer elevators” in the 20-degree weather, all it took was one person who chose to read the whole instructions. Sheesh.

Finally, we made it to the party and it was in full swing. Great food (cheeses, chutneys, salmon, and desserts) and plentiful beverages were our reward for finally passing the challenge of finding our destination.

It’s always a great reminder of the scope and breadth of our Federation at events like this. You see people you know from so many walks of equestrian life. A table of Saddlebred folks next to a table of cowboys from the reining community. A group of eventers socializing with the dressage contingency. It’s a great meeting of the minds and a true testament to the idea that we are much more than the sum of our parts. As individuals (or single disciplines or breeds – we are one), but as a combine group we are much, much more. I think being reminded of this is one of my favorite parts of coming to the USEF Annual Meeting each January.

After the cocktail party, it wasn’t time to turn in and get some shut-eye just yet. Diane from Equisure and Andrew from Lloyds of London insisted we join them for some more food and fun at a downtown favorite in the popular Fourth Street Live entertainment area – Ri Ra. This place is a really cool Irish pub and the name "ri Ra" seems to translate loosely into the idea of "devilment." Actually, it’s much bigger than any Irish pub I’ve ever been to and the food and choice of authentic Irish beers was impressive. I chose the Ri Ra burger (with Irish ringer and a side of curry fries). It was great and was just enough to make me yearn for my pillow and a night of sleep. One of our tablemates – Abby – chose the authentic Irish breakfast as her meal, accompanied by a choice Irish pint. Abby said the sausages were cooked to perfection and the black and white pudding was excellent. Black pudding, for those of you who haven’t tried it before, is a pudding (or int his instance a sort of soft fritter) made from pig's blood (the white pudding's main ingredient is animal fat). She was also served up some sautéed mushrooms and other items that took me back to Ireland. Karen Adams, who is the “right hand” of our President, David O’Connor, chose the traditional Irish pot pie, and I wanted to steal bites away from it when she wasn’t paying attention. All-in-all, it was a lot of fun, and a great end to the first day of this year’s meeting. With an onslaught of meetings and projects to put last-minute touches upon, it was time for bed and a good sleep. We all would certainly need it and be glad we had gotten it.

Today, Thursday, is packed with endless committee meetings and tonight’s Silver Stirrup Awards, presented by the Performance Horse Registry (PHR). It will be a great celebration of the superlatives in owners, breeders and stallions, and another great event – just one of the many packed into the next few days.

Tune in tomorrow for a recap of today’s events and some photos from tonight’s celebration.

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Love is in the air...

KIMBERLY — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:29:00 GMT

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so here are some great options for the horse crazy set.

Like these Horsin' Around Valentines from Current Catalog.

Or these adorable hunt themed cards from HorseGift.com

Or these old fashioned beauties from HorseGift.com

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my last blog post on Abu Dhabi

Abby Jorgensen — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:01:00 GMT

I am sorry about the late post. I have been traveling a lot, and have had trouble with the internet. The trip was fun. Some things just do not go your way, but you have to try and ride through it. That happened to me, but I still kept a smile on my face the whole time. I would like to thank the USEF for helping me out with the equipment that had the USA flag. I would also like to thank them for paying for my trip to Abu Dhabi. I would like to thank all my trainers for helping me get to Abu Dhabi, and especially to Maja and Guy. Maja helped train me all the way when I was jumping small fences and helped me work up to this. Guy helped me while I was in Abu Dhabi and came along for the ride. He was a very important part of this trip. I would like to thank Butch and Lu for also helping me through this and pushing me forward. My last trainer I would like to thank is Jeni. Jeni taught me some important tips to help me out with my riding. I would like to thank the FEI for putting on this competition. I would like to thank the host country for supplying the horses we rode. The last person I would like to thank is my mom. My mom is the one who let me go on this trip and have a great time. The trip was a blast and a great experience.

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Back in the Saddle of Life

Sarah Conrad — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:52:00 GMT

Hope and determination—just a few of the things one can learn from one Alabama teen, who, at her young age, has already battled cancer. And hopefully she has won. Elizabeth Walters’ story begins in September of 2007, at age 15, when a riding accident caused three compressed vertebrae. However, by the summer of 2008, the pain in her back and chest hadn’t gone away; it just kept getting worse. In addition, it was getting hard for Elizabeth to breathe.

Her mother, Jeannie, became increasingly concerned, and after an eighth-place finish at the Middle Tennessee Pony Club Horse Trials, she wanted more answers than questions. After visiting several doctors in the search for a diagnosis, an x-ray showed a shadow, and then a biopsy was done. Elizabeth was finally diagnosed with a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The mass took up one lung—about the size of a football. The word “cancer” can strike fear into anyone’s mind. But with the help of her family, friends, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Elizabeth began treatment, which included chemotherapy. During five rounds of chemotherapy, she would spend one week at St. Jude getting treatment, then two weeks at home.

In addition, to her support from people, it was her love of horses that got her through the intensive treatments. And one horse in particular—her horse, Montini. Montini is a 11-year-old Thoroughbred gelding, and a grandson to the great racehorse Seattle Slew.

Elizabeth’s journey with horses began at age two when she got her first pony. And it wasn’t long before the thrill of competition got this horse crazy girl into shows and then eventing. Along with caring doctors at St. Jude, it was her dedication to equestrian sport and Montini that helped her beat her illness.

By early 2009 Elizabeth had returned to riding, and by working closely with her trainer, Candi Wheeler, she managed to compete in the Mid-South Pony Club Horse Trials in Lexington, KY, in June, placing fourth out of 21 riders in the Novice division. In October she placed fifth at the Middle Tennessee Pony Club Horse Trials. She is currently cancer-free, but not after a scare of a second mass, which turned out to be a build-up of scar tissue.

Elizabeth’s story was brought to the attention of USEF staff through a video of her interview on The Today Show. She was accompanied her mother and Marlo Thomas, the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Upon seeing her story, we thought it would be a good idea to bring more of the story to ClubEquestrian.com visitors.

So, after speaking with Elizabeth on the phone, I wished I could have done her interview in person. She sounded so sweet and likeable, as if I could hear her smiling on the other end, especially when she talked about her horse. She certainly is an inspiration to anyone dealing with cancer.

It is such a widespread disease, with so many different forms, that it would be hard to find someone who has not known a cancer patient. My first experience with it was when I was young, and a dear neighbor passed away from cancer. And then in my early college years, I had to deal with a melanoma, or skin cancer. We caught it just in time though, and it had not spread to the lymph nodes, so I consider myself quite lucky. Of course, those who have had skin cancer are seven times more likely than those who have not had it to get it again, according to my dermatologist. So I must always remain vigilant.

And then my uncle went through colon cancer, which spread to his lymph nodes, and then liver cancer. When doctors told him he had only five years to live, it was quite a scary time. Luckily, it is now long past that time, and he is now considered a “miracle patient” since he is living cancer free. I only hope it will stay that way. He is my inspiration when I hear of someone dealing with cancer, because there are ways to beat it, in many cases.

And now I have another inspiration with the story of Elizabeth Walters. And even in the brief time I spoke with her, it was great to hear of her love for her horse. It makes me think of the healing power of horses, or animals in general. Through her connection with St. Jude, she is trying to give hope to those dealing with cancer and show other patients that you can beat this disease. I wish her luck, and also continued success with her equestrian career, and anything else she may tackle in life. Below is our interview.

Tell me about your equestrian career.

I started riding when I was two. My mom started me out doing saddle seat, but then I switched over to jumping at six or seven years old. I got my second pony and started doing little shows. I did my first horse trial in 2006. I competed in beginner novice for a year. In late 2007 or early 2008 I moved to novice. I competed at training level in October.

How did you get Montini, and what makes Montini so special to you?

I got him in 2008. It was in late spring, in April, when I got him, and I had been doing a lot of beginner novice events. He was down the street from my barn. We went to look at him and tried him out, but he was out of our price range. But eventually we got the price down.

He’s awesome. Such a gentle giant really. He’s definitely different from any horse I have had. He’s 18 hands, really big, and he is so game for everything. We have a really good trust. He trusts me to not face him at anything he can’t do, and I trust him.

How did you get through your illness? What were your thoughts upon thinking the cancer had returned, and how did you and your doctors deal with it?

It was really difficult. I realized once I got sick I wasn’t going to be able to ride. It was a very aggressive treatment. Everyone at St. Jude was awesome. Even though I couldn’t see him [Montini], I knew he was doing good. My trainer took care of him and kept sending me pictures, so I knew he was doing good.

I couldn’t believe it. The first time was a big shock. The second time was an even bigger shock. Again, my horse was a big concern. Thank goodness it was not a cancerous tumor. Mostly scar tissue build-up. I shouldn’t have any more issues. They were just going in for another biopsy, and it turned out to be just the scar tissue, and it wasn’t really big enough, so they took it out right then. It was a last minute thing while they were in there.

How are you doing now?

I’m doing great. I’m so glad to be on Montini, and even back in school. I am enjoying normal life and hopefully competing again this spring.

What other hobbies do you have?

I really just ride. Riding and school are my entire life.

What grade are you in, and do you know what you might want to do for a living?

I’m a junior. It changes from day to day. Right now I want to be a vet.

What was the biggest challenge you have dealt with?

Being away from regular life. You don’t really know how much you should appreciate things until it’s taken away from you. It was difficult to be away from my friends and Montini. But I knew one day I would be back on him, so that gave me a lot of hope.

How did Montini respond to your absence from riding and to your return?

I think we have a good enough connection and that he knew there was something wrong, so he was fine, but my return was awesome. We started right where we left off.

What advice would you give to a rider who must deal with such an illness or a severe injury?

I know for me that horses have always been a way to get away from things, and they were what gave me hope the whole time. I kept thinking “one day when I’m back on Montini.” That’s what you have to focus on. Visiting him was a big part of it. That made my month.

What would you like to accomplish with your equestrian career in the future?

Everything possible. I’ve always hoped one day to go to Rolex, but I know how difficult that can be. I’ve gone once [to watch] a few years ago. We’re just going to see how things go. He’s been off for a month, hopefully we can do a training event in the spring.

How did you come to represent St. Jude?

It’s a crazy story. I was in the cafeteria of St. Jude, and had a Rolex shirt on. Someone asked me about it. I was telling them I did have a horse, and they were really interested in my story. I did a small interview, which went on St. Jude website. Then people from The Today Show saw it.

What was it like to be on The Today Show?

It was so much fun. I was really nervous,

What do you hope to achieve through your representation of St. Jude?

I really just hope to be sort of an example for the kids who are in chemo and radiation and to let them know that one day they will be a survivor. And also to help with different fundraising.

How did your family and friends support you?

They were the best. I had so many people come to talk to me, pray for me—people I hadn’t talked to in a long time. I had three really close friends, my mom and my dad. They were just really great. My trainer especially. They did the St. Jude Marathon and made t-shirts and armbands.

Is there anything else you want to add?

I’m so grateful for St. Jude and for my horse.

If you wish to view the video of Elizabeth on The Today Show, visit www.today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/34108737#34108737.

If you wish to donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, visit www.stjude.org.

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Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Sarah Conrad — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:16:00 GMT

So I have been waiting around for a decent day of weather, some sunshine, and a day when I wasn’t quite so busy in the office. That day finally came on Wednesday, and I finally had a chance to go back out to the Education Barn in the Kentucky Horse Park to visit the KyEHC horses. Well, mainly Cutter, the recovering Thoroughbred. If you missed the introduction to Cutter, check out the blog from November 10, 2009.

Anyhow we’re past due for an update, but I have a feeling it’s been somewhat quiet compared to the activity that will come when the student education program begins on January 7. There should some be some fun updates then as the students start working with the five horses as they learn all sorts of horsey info.

So while I waited for Ellen Hamilton, the manager for the equine education department at the Kentucky Horse Park, I enjoyed being out in the park early in the morning. There is always something so peaceful about being on a horse farm before the activity of a day begins. Although technically people had already been there to feed the horses, so I certainly wasn’t the first out there—just the only one for a short time. I made friends with Penelope, the barn cat. Or perhaps she made friends with me. She wouldn’t stop following me around. Everywhere. It was very hard to actually get a picture of this sweet little cat. Personality-wise she reminds me of my cat, Xander, but he’s a tabby…different coloring.

It was so quiet as many horses were eating—you gotta love that munching sound. So I visited with the two Warmblood stallions in the barn…some very mellow horses. Ellen, Todd, and another Mandy Alexander showed up after being out in the park. The great update on Cutter is that he is finally allowed to go outside now after being cleared by the vet. So he gets to go out for an hour or two each morning. Ellen mentioned that they should be able to add an hour each day, but Cutter hasn’t cooperated so much with that. He still has some excitement, but the goal is to keep him calm.

She said he’s turning into quite the people horse, always seeking attention. I could see that as I tried to pet on him, except he still tries to “chew” or “nibble” on things, or people, so you have to watch it. So Mandy walked Cutter out to a large round pen, and of course, he went straight for some hay. You can tell by the photos that he likes to get a little dirty. And he likes to pose. He’s very photogenic. At one point he got a little excited and started trotting, so we decided to leave him be so he could mellow out.

Ellen let me know that the two broodmares are doing well. They are still pregnant and due in March. They are hoping to get the foals adopted out.

As for Truffles, she has had the most activity, except lately, since the students are away. She has been walked up and down the big aisle in the barn, worked in the round pen, lunged and been under saddle at the walk and trot. I can’t wait to see her in action.

JuneBug on the other hand has been taking it easy out in the field. They are saving her to work with the students. She’s a bit spooky, according to Ellen, so they will be doing a lot of desensitization with her. The next entry won’t be until after the New Year, so I hope everyone enjoys the holiday season and has a great New Years!

Below: (left) The first thing he enjoys about the Great Outdoors is the hay. (right) I love how he's just eyeing me with my camera. He's such an expressive horse.

Below: (left) Did I mention he's a bit of a ham?
(right) Just from a few trot strides, Cutter looks like he is a good mover.
Not really encouraged though right now.

Below: And here he comes for some attention.

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Competition days

Abby Jorgensen — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 06:09:00 GMT

The past few days have been very interesting. My rounds have not been very good. My horse is difficult to ride, but I am going to try and dig deep and make it work. My goal is to at least make it through one course. We went to some cool places. We went and had lunch on a boat. That was very relaxing. Also we went to a soccer game. In the game they gave out three red cards. It was a lot of fun. I have made even more friends from everywhere. On the bus rides we like to play games and fun hand games. One of my friends is from Germany. She tried to teach me some German, but I was not very good at it. We went to the vegetable market and they had a lot of food. One of the stands gave me a free corn and I ate it raw. It is a little different tasting, but I liked it. It has been fun and I hope the days get better as they go on.

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First day of riding horses

Abby Jorgensen — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 02:22:00 GMT

Today was an interesting day. We woke to see that it was pouring down rain. We ate breakfast, got on the buses, and went to watch the vet check. The horse I had was the first one out to get tested and didn’t pass the jog. We were going to see how it was when I rode it. We went up to the arena and had some drinks and some snacks. The parking lot near the arena was flooded with water that was about six to twelve inches. After we finished our snacks we headed off to go ride. When I got in the bus I looked a my helmet that had fallen into pieces. I told my mom and we ran to the venders up by the ring. Luckily they had speed airs and found one my size. After this problem we went to the barn to see how the horse trotted with me on it. It did not pass with me on it so we took it back to the barn and got a new horse. The next horse was not the best horse either. This one was sound but a little bit of a brat. I was cantering along and then I heard the horse grunt and it grabbed the bit, took off, and bucked me off right on a hill. I got up and got back on, My trainer had me work in a circle and I went to pick up the canter again the horse did the same thing, and got me off again. My trainer said there was no way I am riding a horse that bucked me off twice. At least I broke in my new helmet. The third horse we tried looked very nice. My trainer got on it first, but did not have much time to ride it because it started to pour down rain once again. We went back to the hotel and had an easy night.

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