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Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 1: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

www.localhorsemagazine.com.au

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www.tamworthrural.com.au

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11. FEATURED - BREEDING SPECIAL!

08. BREEDS -The Clydesdale

48. KIDZ CORNER

FROM THE EDITORCONTENTS

Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine have taken every care in

preparation of this magazine. Therefore it may not be copied in part

or whole for reproduction, without said magazines written authority.

While we take every care in the preparation and accuracy of its

contents we are not responsible for any mistakes or misprints in any

article or advertisement, nor are we responsible for any errors by

others. Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine accepts no liability

resulting from omissions, errors, misprints or failure to publish any

advertisement.

Disclaimer

Disciplines

Service Directory

Articles

View each edition online at www.localhorsemagazine.com.au

18. Campdraft/Team Penning

22. Cutting

24. Dressage

28. Endurance

30. Eventing

32. Horse Drawn

36. Horsemanship

40. Polo/Polocrosse/Horseball

44. Riding groups/Pony clubs

50. Rodeo/Barrel Horse

54. Showjumping

56. Show Horse/Agricultural

58. Western Performance/Reining

65. Classifieds

64. Service Directory

22. Cutting - Horse herd work - Best practices - Part2

25. Forward to the Legs - Bert Hartog - Part 2

26. 2011 NSW Dressage Championships

28. Endurance - When things go wrong

31. Improve your jump

34. Information for the show driver

37. The road to horsemanship - Part 3

38. A tale of two wild brumbies - Part 3

41. Feeding the Polocrosse Horse

45. Protect your head - Why you should wear a helmet

51. Roping - train your horse to Head or Heel

55. Shoping for the showjumper

57. Faking it! - Using false tails

59. So, you want to ride Western?

D E A D L I N E F O R A R T W O R K

17th of each monthPrinted by: FAST PROOF PRESS - (07) 5578 4722

Contacts:

Editor &

Event coverage/

Photographer:

Mel Spittall

0409 987 152

[email protected]

Hope you all enjoy this edition guys!

I’d like to welcome on board Shara Purnell. She will be helping out with the mag & you may catch us out & about snapping pics for the mag. Make sure you come over & say g’day! Until next month......Happy reading!Cheers, Mel

PG 38

Front Cover:‘Smooth Moove’Regal Oaks Stud

Cover Images: & Artwork Tania Hobbs

PG 4

PG 26

PG 55

PG 51

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From a polite and reserved young lad to a globe trotting horseman. When you believe in the power of your dreams, the world is your oyster! This is Cal’s story....

Livin’ the dream I grew up on a small cattle farm In Armidale NSW. My father Phillip Snell was a successful international cowboy, and throughout my childhood Phil was always occupied with horses. My mother Del McLennan was born and raised in the bush; most of

her days were spent working with her father who often camped out in the scrub with the local aboriginals controlling weeds, fences and wild animals in the isolated Nymboida Bush. Both my parents avoided city life at all costs. Conversation in our family’s simple, small farm house revolved mostly around horses’. Mum didn’t let us watch TV or stay inside the house whilst it was daylight, saying that we better get outside and find something to do or she would give us housework to do; so I always found myself playing with a horse or two.When I was seven Mum took me and my older siblings Clancy and Cody to a circus that had come to town. I loved everything that the circus was: the performers, the animals and the alternative way they lived, travelling the world in caravans with all those animals (sounded like the best holiday a kid could ever want). That night I was blown away as I watched a bare back gymnast perform on a grey horse with a big peacock feather in between its ears. For the next couple of years I mucked around on my first horse, Mindy.  A retired Supreme Champion Hack that had won at every royal show in Australia, Mindy let me do whatever I wanted on her. I used to hang upside down of her and frog-leap on her, ride around backwards, canter her under the clothes line and swing off it or past the trampoline and leap onto it. I used to invite my family and friends to the backyard to watch my ‘circus’, Mindy even had a chook feather as her crown. Most of the time I would find

myself stuck halfway down her neck because she would stop cantering and start eating grass. I spent every spare minute with Mindy. Much to Mums disgust I would open the gate and let Mindy in the backyard so that she would be at the backdoor whenever I wanted her,  I would just run out the door and jump straight on her, no saddle or bridle and let her take me for a ride around our farm. She was the most tolerant horse I have ever seen, I remember one day putting on some old rollerblades I had found, holding onto Mindy’s tail and tapping her with a stick to trot around the paddock, more often than not I would fall over and be dragging behind her (rollerblades don’t work too well on grass I discovered), I would do this for hours until eventually she wouldn’t walk any further and would just turn in circles to face me and sniff my face.  Any other horse would have got sour or kicked me to kingdom come. Mindy gave me so much enjoyment. I was lucky to have such a good mare and thanks to her a desire to always have fun with horses was developed.The Snell family were all involved in the local Pony Club. I learned a lot there and did fairly well, always qualifying to compete for state, but i was just there for fun with friends, my siblings and our horses, so I never took competition seriously. Mindy would usually win me blue ribbons and then purple ribbons appeared in the show ring, from then on all I wanted was a purple ribbon (7th place), so other kids were always happy to swap with me. I wasn’t concerned whether I came first or last. Throughout these years, our family spent evenings watching ‘The man from Snowy River’ or ‘8 seconds’, and looking at photos of our parents competing for Australia throughout USA and Canada in rodeos. These few ingredients supplied me with a future hunger for adrenalin and adventure. I always felt compelled to live and be just like the boys in those movies. I always wished that when I grew up I would ride horses in movies.By the time i was 15 and in year 10 at school, I had decided that I did not want to continue, I was teased at school because I wasn’t confident, avoided conflict and only hung around ‘rurals’ (horsey kids). Against my parents better judgement I was permitted me to leave under the conditions that I had something constructive to go on with (preferably an apprenticeship). I enrolled in a Horse Management course via TAFE NSW and completed one year of studying all aspects of performance horses. The highlight of this year was the time I spent riding with Jan Upjohn, adopting her passive, patient soft way keeping horses in correct frame (but not taking any rubbish from them either) at Harlow Park. This proved to be a great ‘gap’ year to think about my future as well as giving me the opportunity to work 2 part time jobs. I thought that I would have to go onto Vet nursing or work for a thoroughbred stud until I figured out where it was i wanted to go (chasing movie dreams, seemed unrealistic). Then one day (thankfully) my friend and fellow student Kyra brought a newspaper clipping into College from a Gold Coast paper reading “STABLEHANDS AND PERFORMERS REQUIRED FOR MULTI MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCTION LOCATED ON GOLD COAST”. I was a little dubious due to my doubts that her and I, just lil ole us, would even think of applying for job in a 28 million dollar show. I thought it to be a farfetched idea to think we would stand a chance but so as not to shatter her dreams I said ‘sure let’s do it’. We sent our resumes in (you can imagine what a 16yr olds resume looks like who has competed in Pony Club, worked at Coles and ridden a few steers would look like) and several weeks later to my surprise I got a phone call to do an audition. My audition was nerve wracking; I was pretty shy and hated being the centre of attention, my horse wouldn’t slide stop well enough so they asked me to do it again and again till they got what they wanted. In the end I had to say ‘honestly I’m sure this horse can do it but I just don’t want to be that tough on him’ so I jumped off and thought that that was that. Shane Phillips (AOS Production Manager) walked up to me and asked me how old I was. Nervously I replied 16 adding that I had my L Plates but my mum said she would drop me off at work every day if I got the job. The following weeks contained more interviews, physical examinations and eventually4

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I got the phone call to say I got the job. My parents were separating at the time and Mum said she would move with me to the Gold Coast until I got my P Plates and got set up (Thanks mum).Working at AOS exposed me to a whole new world, the world of independence, I was responsible for myself now, I had money, I had a great job and I was in the ‘big smoke’. To say I was nervous would be an understatement.Donna Morton ‘weaned’ me into the show, aware of how nervous I was. Initially my main act was as a bronc rider but gradually I progressed into participating in more scenes in the show. My first quadrille in the show had me shaking, Donna gave me some Rescue Remedy drops and concealed a microphone in my ear, and as I was riding in the show she watched from backstage and told me when to go where, my nerves causing me to forget the hundred times I had rehearsed it. After about a year, a couple of bottles of anxiety relief drops and a lot of encouragement from co-workers I was in the show full swing. I was offered the opportunity to roman ride. Well it was all about having a go; during a training session those riders that were keen to have a go were thrown up on

2 horses and told ‘go for it’. One after the other the boys jumped up on the horses (I waited till last to avoid the audience), I jumped on and by the end of my go round I was told that I’d be training from then on. I watched the girls’ train trick riding and every day I made sure I was either their safety guy or a rope holder so I could be part of it. Watching them gave me goosebumps. How I wished I could do it, but trick riding was the girls act and roman riding was the boys act, so I counted my blessings and concentrated on roman riding. During my time at AOS I also gained significant experience working with camels, foundational methods of liberty training, rearing, motorbikes, flying the in house helicopter, wagon driving and a very fun stunt involving getting dragged behind a high speed horse, and most importantly learning to observe everything. After 3 years of living on the Gold Coast I missed the bush, so I moved back to the family farm to break in horses and spend time getting back to nature, giving myself plenty of space and time to think about what I wanted to do next. Our family farm got sold, and, in perfect time I received an email from Donna saying there was a roman riding horse show job in Perth at El Caballo Resort. I spent 2 months over there, focusing my energy on training a solo liberty act, improving my roman riding skills on a pair of educated Andalusians and trained very basic trick riding on a quiet Australian Stock Horse I pulled out of a paddock over there, developing a social network and building friendships to keep my mind off the loss of the farm. Soon I learned that my boss was unreliable financially and yet again, perfectly timed, I received a phone call from the Gassers, the family who run ‘The Horseman From Snowy River’ tour,  they offered to teach me how to trick ride if I committed to a one year contract with them. So I packed my bags, said goodbye to my new friends and got on a flight to Melbourne.On my first day of work I introduced myself to a couple that had arrived on the same day.  Soon I discovered that I had just met a person i had yearned to meet during my time at Outback Spectacular. I had heard stories about their adventures, accomplishments and seen pictures taken by a mutual friend and I had asked to be introduced, but to no avail. So to discover that Zelie Bullen and I had started working on the same job on the same day was like a massive gift from the universe. (Zelie has since become one of my dear friends and an inspirational mentor).Team work, patience and maintaining good manners proved to be the vital ingredients to success and happily functioning in such a tight knit, high stress work environment . I did everything from transportation, construction of the big top tent, building stables, seating, lighting and sound, office duties, exercising/training horses, stable work and finishing the week with performances.  Working under Rene Gasser was a pretty awesome experience, his philosophy of educating horses, combined with his artistic experience within the European circus scene, and years of training with famous liberty and high school dressage trainers from all over the world provided his horses with a wealth of mastery. Some days when I had worked my team of horses I would make time to just sit and observe the communication between horse and person. I was always willing to assist Sonny with anything and through this gained knowledge and a feel of what to do and when to do it, as it is with all horses’ education. Another massive component of tour was my co-workers. In that particular situation we lived, ate, slept, worked and played together. We had no one else and our duties in the show could not be abandoned for a weekend away. A lot of people came on tour but could not cope with its demands, so those of us who did stay on developed relationships that cannot be compared to any others. Life on the road is like no other. In summer 2009, Zelie Bullen kindly invited me to join her and her family on a trip to L.A to train with World Champion Trick Rider and All Round stunt performer/ coordinator Tad Griffith. To say I was honoured is an understatement. The following weeks building my foundation as a trick rider with Tad proved to be very challenging and pushed me way out of my comfort zone. The combination of the tricks I was undertaking, the speed of his horses and his eye for perfection made that time unforgettable and I learned how to do some things that I did not think I was capable of.  It’s amazing what you can conquer when someone pushes you and you don’t back down. I had busters and hang ups, I got trampled, couldn’t walk because training beat me up and so on but in the end I walked away proud of myself and with an overwhelming sense of gratitude.Mid June this year I resigned from the Gassers ‘Horseman from Snowy River’ and ‘El Caballo Blanco’ shows, after completing over 2 years touring of Australia and New Zealand and flew over to USA and Canada. I have been travelling around meeting trick riders and now have found myself based at Tad Griffiths an hour east of Los Angeles. I have been given the opportunity to train stunts, trick riding and have employment opportunities. Every day I am grateful for the Industry that I have grown into. So far chasing my dreams has challenged all aspects of who I am. I forgot my dream and thankfully a friend gave me a shove in the right direction and from then on I have followed it and life has been empowering. It hasn’t been easy but it has been fulfilling. I cannot express enough how much I urge everyone to dream of what you want.  If you don’t dream then your future is like a car with no driver. Life doesn’t stand still, it moves forward and if you don’t choose which way you want to go it will choose for you. I aim for my future to hold good people, fun times, nice horses and challenging work, trick riding, roman riding, liberty, dressage, reining and exotic animal training whilst staying passionate about work and life in general, maintaining an open mind and an aim to forever improve whilst being ever grateful.  I encourage everyone who reads this to ask yourself this simple question ‘WHAT WOULD MAKE ME HAPPY”. Then choose what you do from there.

Images courtesy of Ralph Meznar unless marked otherwise. 5

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What’s on calendarBreeds Section

October 2011AG SHOWS NSW

For more information on any of the Ag Shows listed below, please visit www.agshowsnsw.org.au

Please see page 16 for more Information on the Tamworth Select All Breeds Horse Sale.

CULCAIRN P A H & I SOC INCWhere: CULCAIRNWhen: 1 October 2011

BRIBBAREE SHOW SOC INCWhere: BRIBBAREEWhen: 1 October 2011

BERRIGAN A & H SOC INCWhere: BERRIGANWhen: 2 October 2011

GRIFFITH SHOW SOC INCWhere: GRIFFITHWhen: 2 October 2011 - 3 October 2011

MORONGLA SHOW SOC INCWhere: MORONGLAWhen: 3 October 2011

WALBUNDRIE SHOW SOC INCWhere: WALBUNDRIEWhen: 3 October 2011

LEETON SHOW SOC INCWhere: LEETONWhen: 7 October 2011 - 8 October 2011

ILLABO SHOW SOC INCWhere: ILLABOWhen: 8 October 2011

TRUNKEY CREEK SHOW SOCIETYWhere: TRUNKEY CREEKWhen: 8 October 2011

TAREE.MANNING RIVER A & H SOC TAREE INCWhere: TAREEWhen: 8 October 2011 - 9 October 2011

PICTON A H & I SOC INCWhere: PICTONWhen: 8 October 2011 - 9 October 2011

COROWA PA & H SOC INCWhere: COROWAWhen: 9 October 2011

BARHAM KOONDROOKWhere: BARHAMWhen: 14 October 2011 - 15 October 2011

COOTAMUNDRA APH & I SOC INCWhere: COOTAMUNDRAWhen: 15 October 2011

CASINO SHOW SOC INCWhere: CASINOWhen: 15 October 2011

THE ROCK SHOW SOCIETY INCWhere: THE ROCKWhen: 15 October 2011

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B r e e d i n g S p e c i a l

Hoof care for the Broodmare

The old adage ‘no hoof, no horse’ couldn’t be truer when it comes to a broodmare. While she doesn’t need to perform athletically any more, she does need to be able to support herself and the additional weight of her growing foetus during pregnancy and then have the ability to run with (or after) her foal and spend large amounts of time grazing to meet her enormous energy requirements during lactation. While hoof problems for mares aren’t necessarily a show stopper, they do cause pain and discomfort that is not good for her welfare and may also make her less willing to move about and graze as normal to meet her own requirements and provide for her foal. On top of that, mares with problem hooves become expensive to manage.While expert hoof care from a trained and experienced farrier is essential for maintaining healthy hooves, this article looks at what can be done nutritionally to assist with improving or maintaining sound hooves in your broodmares.High quality proteinThe outer wall of a horse’s hoof is comprised mainly of keratin, an extremely durable material made from protein. While there are many amino acids in keratin, it is dominated by cystine, a non-essential amino acid that can be made by the horse in its body. Cystine is created when two cysteine amino acids are bonded together. Cysteine is another non-essential amino acid. However, it is formed in the body from methionine, which is an essential amino acid and must be supplied in the diet. Methionine is considered the second most limiting amino acid in horse diets and a deficiency of this amino acid can negatively impact hoof quality by limiting the amount of cysteine and consequently the amount of cystine available for the growth of keratin.Because broodmares have elevated requirements for protein and particularly essential amino acids to support foetal growth and milk production, making sure their diet supplies enough high quality protein to meet these needs is essential if they are to be able to support their foal and maintain the health and integrity of their own body including their hooves. Healthy HindgutBecause of its role in cell proliferation, the water soluble B-vitamin biotin is essential for the growth of healthy hooves. Enough biotin to meet a horse’s requirements is produced by bacteria in the hindgut of healthy horses. However, if diets are fed that are too low in forage or if the hindgut environment is disturbed and particularly if uncooked grains are fed and allowed to ferment in the hindgut, the production of biotin may be compromised, in turn affecting hoof growth.Because lactating mares do have very high energy requirements, it is easy to get carried away with feeding large amounts of grain based concentrate feeds and forget about the forage component of the diet. As a rule, mates should have free access to as much forage as they can eat. If you are hand feeding hay to mares, feed an absolute minimum of 1 kg of hay per 100 kg of bodyweight per mare per day. Feeding less than this will limit the amount of fermentable fibre the hindgut bacteria can access to produce biotin.In addition, don’t feed more than 1 kg of concentrate/grain based feed per 100 kg of body weight per day. Feeding more than this will limit the amount of pasture or hay your mares will willingly go out and eat. And perhaps more importantly, make sure the grains you are feeding are cooked. More than 70% of the starch from uncooked corn and barley will travel undigested to the hindgut where it will be rapidly fermented, causing acidosis and disrupting biotin production and this is something you should avoid at all costs.Balanced minerals and vitaminsZinc tends to take the spotlight when hoof health is discussed, and while it is very important, supplementing with zinc alone won’t assist with hoof quality if there are other more severe deficiencies in the diet. Feeding too much zinc can also cause a secondary copper deficiency, which, instead of making hoof quality better, will only serve to make it worse. Nearly all pastures contain levels of zinc and copper that are too low to support the needs of a breeding mare and over time if left Unsupplemented for all or even part of the breeding

cycle, hoof growth and quality may start to suffer.Healthy hooves rely on a balanced diet, so when considering hoof quality, be sure to make sure all of your mares’ requirements for minerals and vitamins are met. If additional zinc is fed, be sure to also provide additional copper to keep the zinc to copper ratio in balance.When should biotin be usedSeveral studies now have shown that biotin supplementation can improve hoof growth and hoof quality. But a biotin supplement shouldn’t be the first thing you reach for when trying to solve a hoof quality problem. Adding biotin to a diet that is mineral deficient or contains poor quality protein with inadequate levels of essential amino acids to support hoof growth is not going to work as extra biotin simply can’t compensate for other kinds of deficiencies.However, if you have your mares on a well balanced diet that does contain high quality protein and is meeting all requirements for vitamins and minerals and you still aren’t happy with hoof quality, adding additional biotin to the diet is worth a shot to see if it will help. The recommended ‘therapeutic’ amount of biotin to feed for improved hoof growth is 20 mg/day. Laminitic maresLaminitis can develop in breeding mares for several reasons, some may be dietary related while others like cases of retained placenta aren’t. Regardless of the cause of laminitis, it is always a good idea to feed these mares in a way that avoids any chance of diet related laminitis occurring. Laminitic mares should be maintained on low starch, low sugar diets. Feeding low starch, low sugar diets removes the risk of grain fermentation in the hindgut and reduces the insulin load placed on a mare following feeding , both of which may trigger laminitis in susceptible mares. Energy in these diets can be provided by high energy fibres and oil. Mares prone to laminitis should also be kept in moderate, verging on the side of light condition (condition score 5 on the Henneke 1 to 9 scale) to maintain a good level of insulin sensitivity and reduce physical pressure on their already fragile hoof structures.Perhaps most importantly, laminitic mares should not be kept on low quality rations. They, more than any other mare need all the essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals they can get to help them repair their damaged hoof structures. Healthy Mare, Healthy HoovesThere aren’t any tricks to maintaining quality hooves in broodmares. All that is required is a well balanced and high quality diet that meets requirements for amino acids, vitamins and minerals and provides plenty of fibre for hindgut fermentation and the natural production of biotin. All of these nutrients are required for good fertility and the production of sound, healthy foals, so in feeding mares to breed well developed and healthy foals you should be meeting all the goals for healthy hooves. However, you are likely to find some mares that despite a good diet, still have problem feet. These mares may benefit from additional biotin supplementation and further dietary adjustment.

The Pryde’s EasiFeed range of breeding feeds has got your mares’ needs for healthy hooves covered. Pryde’s EasiFeed use only the highest quality protein, with soybeans, lupins and faba beans

used to provide optimum levels of essential amino acids. All feeds are fully fortified with balanced vitamins and minerals and the

Pryde’s EasiFeed extruded feeds take care of your mare’s hindguts to allow for maximum natural biotin production.

For problem mares, Pryde’s Polished can be used to provide extra biotin, methionine, organic zinc and organic copper. Pryde’s

EasiFeed can also cater for your laminitic mares with EasiFeed ‘Low Starch’ and the non-grain EasiSport on the menu.

Dr Nerida Richards ~ Equilize Horse Nutrition Pty Ltd

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Getting a lactating mare’s feeding right is critical to ensure she can provide milk for her foal and provide the required nutrients for a foetus if she is pregnant again. A balanced diet is also essential to keep the mare healthy so that she can continue to produce healthy foals for years to come.

As for all horses, a mare’s requirement for energy (calories), protein, vitamins and minerals must be met. These nutrients and the role they play in a lactating mare’s diet are looked at below.

EnergyA lactating mare’s requirement for energy is double that needed by a mature

idle horse.

Not feeding a lactating mare enough energy means she will lose weight. If she is losing weight it will make it difficult to get her back in foal and could also reduce the amount of milk she produces for her foal.

In the reverse, if she is allowed to get too heavy in condition, her milk production may fall and the extra weight also puts unnecessary pressure on her joints and hooves which will cause pain and lameness for the mare.

The basis of a mare’s energy intake should be provided from pasture and hay. If pasture and hay is not enough to maintain body condition, high energy feeds like cooked cereal grains, high energy fibres and oils can be added to the diet.

To manage energy intake, you should assess your lactating mares for body fatness regularly and adjust their energy intake up if they are losing weight and down if they are gaining too much weight.

ProteinLactating mares need good quality protein to enable them to provide milk for the foal and to maintain their own muscle

mass. Not enough good quality protein in a lactating mare’s diet will cause milk production to fall, foals growth rates to slow and the mare will begin to lose muscle mass, which in turn may make it difficult for the mare to go back in foal.

A majority of protein in the mare’s diet should be provided by the pasture and hay the diet is based on. When there is not enough protein in the pasture and hay to meet a mare’s requirements, good quality protein sources such as soybean, lupins, faba bean, canola meal and lucerne should be used to meet requirements. Poor quality sources of protein such as cottonseed meal which have low levels of essential amino acids should be avoided for lactating mares.

Vitamins and MineralsVitamins are extremely important in the lactating mare’s diet and have an impact on the mare’s health and fertility as

well as the foal’s growth. Mares with access to green pasture will have the majority of their vitamin requirements met by the pasture alone. Mares with limited access to fresh, green pasture will generally need to be supplemented with vitamins.

A lactating mare has massive requirements for minerals, and particularly for the macro-minerals calcium and phosphorous, which are found in large quantities in milk. While milk only contains very small amounts of trace-minerals, it is important to meet her requirements for these nutrients during lactation so she can replenish her own body reserves and have plenty on hand to ensure the structural soundness of her future foals.

Not meeting the lactating mare’s requirements for minerals will mean her body reserves are depleted, leaving her susceptible to disease and lameness. Mineral deficiency can also reduce her milk production and fertility and can affect the soundness of future foals.

Feeding thelactating

mare

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A lactating mare’s mineral requirements will be partially met by the pasture, hay and grains in her diet. However, because forages are typically low in minerals it is unlikely a mare’s full mineral requirements will be met, so some supplementation will almost certainly be necessary.

Vitamins and minerals can be supplemented using a concentrated balancer pellet or a complete feed, depending on your preference for style of feeding and how much feed your mares need to maintain body condition.

If you have mares that are easy keepers, using a pasture balancer pellet will allow you to provide the vitamins and minerals she needs without providing additional calories that could make her gain unneeded weight. On the other hand, if your mares are typically hard keepers, it would be easiest to use a complete feed that provides the mare with additional calories and high quality protein as well as providing the vitamins and minerals she needs.

Salt and waterLactating mares should always have access to salt and very clean fresh water. Lack of salt and clean water can reduce

milk production and slow foal growth.

Which is the best feed for your mare?When choosing the right feed and developing a feeding program for your lactating mares you need to consider

the following:

1. Do you have pasture available?2. What sort of pasture do you have and what is its quality like?3. Will your mare maintain bodyweight on pasture alone, or do you need to feed additional feed for her to maintain bodyweight?4. What hay do you have available and what is its quality like?5. Are your mares typically easy or hard keepers?6. Do your mares need to gain, maintain or lose weight?7. What stage of lactation are they in?8. Do you prefer to feed a complete feed or mix your own feeds using grains and supplements?

The answers to these questions will determine whether a complete feed or a balancer pellet is best for your mares and will also help you determine what amount of feed your mares need. If your mares are typically hard keepers or if you have very little or only poor quality pasture available a complete feed will most likely give you the best results. If you have good quality pasture and/or your mares are typically easy keepers in good condition you may find a balancer pellet is all that is required.

Pryde’s EasiFeed have an extensive range of feeds specially formulated for breeding mares.The Pryde’s EasiFeed BioMare Cubes provide you with a complete feeding solution for your lactating mares. Pryde’s BioMare Cubes require no mixing, can be fed alone, are well accepted by mares as well as their foals and contain all your mares need to produce strong, healthy foals, year after year.

If you would prefer to mix your own feeds Pryde’s EasiFeed 150, 200 and 250 Balancer Pellets allow you to tailor your feeding program according to current pasture conditions.

To discuss your needs and have a feeding program developed from your breeding mares, contact Pryde’s EasiFeed on 1300 732 267, go to the website www.prydes.com.au or request a free diet analysis by clicking:

http://prydes.com.au/index.php?option=com_jforms&view=form&id=2&Itemid=60.

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B r e e d i n g S p e c i a l

How feeds affect fertility

in mares

What is fertility? In general, mares come on season (cycle) every 21 days, and have a gestation of 340 days or 11 months. For a breeding mare, optimum fertility is a live foal every 12 months, and so there is window of opportunity (30 days) for mares to be served and become pregnant again. Mares can be served on foal heat (7 days after foaling) and then again on 21 day cycles.

Therefore for a mare to have a foal every year, she must

1. produce a viable egg (ova) that can be fertilised and implant in the uterus2. the egg must develop into a foal3. the mare must foal successfully4. the foal must be healthy.

Many factors affect the ability of a mare to produce a viable egg which can be fertilised and that will implant successfully. These factors include

1. physiological state (is she a maiden mare, dry or lactating)2. body condition (condition score)3. energy intake and nutrient requirements4. disease (not discussed in this series)

The most important non disease factor influencing fertility is body condition. This is determined by diet composition and total energy intake. Condition is measured using a 9 point score from poor/emaciated (1) through to extremely fat/obese (9) - see last issue of Horse and People. Mares should be condition score 5-6 at foaling and at mating.

Some science … relationship between glucose and ovulation, gestation and lactationAs with most female animals, ovulation in mares is a function of ‘glucose production rate’ and circulating levels of blood glucose. Mares need rising planes of nutrition, ie rising total energy intake, and rising glucose production rate to ovulate. Therefore, if mares are in poor condition, the glucose production rate and circulating levels are falling and mares may not ovulate. Lactating mares also have a huge ( at least 2 fold) added requirement for energy to produce milk. If the mare is not being supplemented with additional energy, and she is in poor body condition, she will convert body mass (fat and protein) into milk. Glucose productions rates and blood glucose levels will fall and she will not cycle.

Mares in good body condition at foaling can milk ‘the fat’ off their backs – [like dairy cows], ie they can convert body tissue into milk. This allows them to produce the quantity of milk required by the growing foal, to endeavour to maintain blood glucose levels. To avoid the mare losing too much bodyweight after foaling, it is essential that the mare be given a well balanced diet at least 4 months before and 4 months after foaling. For pregnant mares, further improvements in milk production can be made by increasing body condition prior to foaling, provided the diet is balanced.

Mare fertility can also be affected through overfeeding, obesity and associated issues including increased length of anoestrus or the length of time between cycles. One study reported that obese mares exhibited a significantly longer duration of the oestrous cycle, significant increases in circulating concentrations of leptin and insulin, and decreased insulin sensitivity and concentrations of thyroxine compared with feed-restricted mares (Vick et al 2009). It is suggested that some obese mares may suffer insulin resistance.

In summary, the accepted feeding practice can be stated as “An adequate energy intake, matched to the mare’s needs, is essential to achieve and maintain an optimum body condition for breeding. (Talking Horses Fact Sheet 4 www.kohnkesoen.com.au). The feeding program must therefore be tailored for maiden mares, dry mares and lactating mares.

By Dr Tim KemptonStance Equine

Dr Rod StephensonPacvets

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Page 15: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

Effects of NSC [non-structural carbohydrates] on fertility.

Energy is derived mainly from the sugar and starch (NSC or non structural carbohydrate), and also from digestible fibre, oil and protein. It is only in recent years that the negative effects of high levels of sugar and starch (NSC) content of feeds on horse health have been identified (see previous articles in this series in Horse and People). High NSC feeds (>12%) can also cause serious metabolic disorders that will affect the mares health, including tying up, laminitis, gastrointestinal ulcers and difficult temperament. It is now well recognised that horses can suffer from Insulin Resistance (IR) in the same manner that humans suffer from Type II diabetes, and that the culprit is sugar and starch intake (NSC >12%) .

Feeding high energy (high NSC) feeds will increase blood glucose levels but not necessarily increase glucose production rate because of the rapid feedback mechanism of insulin secretion to counter the glucose ‘spikes’ and the partitioning of glucose into fat cells. This causes obesity and infertility, arising mainly from irregular anoestrus, and possibly from polycystic ovarian syndrome.

The conundrum therefore is what do we feed to improve and maintain body condition, and not cause insulin resistance?

Selecting a diet for mare fertility.

The feed must provide a high DE (digestible energy) to increase the circulating levels of glucose, maintain insulin sensitivity, and prevent obesity to optimise the physiological conditions for the mare to conceive and produce a healthy foal. The aim is to select high DE feeds that do not cause high levels and spikes in glucose, and hence insulin. These feeds should therefore be low NSC (<12%) and high oil.

The main factors to consider are DE and NSC content, and use of “slow feed”. All horses are slow feeders, ie they eat continuously during the day. Slow feeds that are high DE, and provide glucose continuously throughout the day, and do not cause glucose spikes are ideal and represent a more natural diet. In the study by Richards et al, unpub, several feeds were fed to horses at pasture to determine the effect on circulating glucose and insulin (see below). The high NSC pelleted (25%) and sweetfeeds (34%) feeds caused glucose and insulin spikes. By comparison, the meal CoolStance (11%) did not cause a glucose spike, and yet provided a high DE intake from the oil. This is an example of an ideal slow feed. Feeding hay in hay feeders is also an example of a slow feed, however hay will not provide the DE required by the mare for optimum fertility.

Circulating glucose levels in grazing horses.

Feeds for mare fertility. Select feeds that haveHigh DE (>14 MJ.kg dry matter)Low NSC (12-15%)High oil High digestible fibreSlow feed classification

ReferenceM. M. Vick , D. R. Sessions, B. A. Murphy , E. L. Kennedy , S. E. Reedy and B. P. Fitzgerald (2009) “Obesity is associated with altered

metabolic and reproductive activity in the mare: effects of metformin on insulin sensitivity and reproductive cyclicity”. Vertebrate Reproductive Science & Technology.

B r e e d i n g S p e c i a l 15

Page 16: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

www.landmark.com.au

The inaugural Tamworth Select All Breeds Horse Sale will be held at the Koobah Performance Horse Complex. Koobah is situated on Spains Lane which is only 2 minutes off the New England Highway on the southern edge of Tamworth. The covered arena at Koobah will create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for those attending the sale. Food and drinks will be catered for.

The concept of The Tamworth Select All Breeds Horse Sale was developed by the committee to give vendors and buyers the opportunity to attend a one day sale where quality horses will be offered. The sale will feature 108 well bred horses with bloodlines representing the top sires in Australia. Prospective buyers can select from led yearlings and 2 year olds, broodmares and a great offering of ridden horses. A total of 52 horses have been nominated to work cattle at the sale.

A demonstration of all sale horses will commence at 8.30am with the sale starting at 12 noon sharp. The 108 horses catalogued will give purchasers the opportunity to select a horse to suit campdrafting, cutting, pony club, polocrosse, team penning, trail riding or a good work horse.

Please do not hesitate to contact any of the sale committee Tony Atkins 0416 110 326, Tim Cone 0413 290 689, Phil Elliott 0418 496 794 or Brent Trotter 0427 608 125 with regards to any information on the sale. Catalogues are available online at

www.landmark.com.au or by contacting Landmark Tamworth on 6765 5211.

TAMWORTH SELECT ALL BREEDS HORSE SALE

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Page 17: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 18: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Campdrafting/Team PenningAustralian Bushmans Campdraft

& Rodeo Associationwww.abcra.com.au

Australian Campdraft Associationwww.campdraft.com.au

Team Penning Australia Incwww.teampenningaustralia.com

Tamworth Team Penningwww.tamworthteampenning.com

October 2011 Campdraft NSW

October/November 2011 Team Penning

Pittsworth & Dist Campdrafting Assoc Inc.Contact – Deb Standing Ph; 0429 674 600

Central West Team Penning Assoc IncContact – Patrick RandellPh; 0458 512 450

Oakey Ag Pastoral & Rodeo Society IncContact – Judy BuyersPh; 0409 062 442

Widgee Team Penning Assoc IncContact – Noel MorelandPh; 0429 835 558

Coolah Team Penning Assoc OncContact – Bec KearneyPh; 6377 1226

Grafton Team Penning Club IncContact – Karen MorganPh; 6649 3276

MTG Team Penning & Arena Sorting Assoc IncContact – Verona PisaturaPh; 0428 861 212

8th & 9th October 2011 - Coolah Team Penning Club - Team Penning EventFor more information on the above events, please visit www.teampenningaustralia.com

8th & 9th October Tamworth Team Penning ChampionshipsFor more information on the above events, please visit www.tamworthteampenning.com

Team Penning Australia Affiliate Associations

1st Oct CUDAL CAMPDRAFT - KATE GORDON (02) 6364 2261

1st Oct CURLEWIS CAMPDRAFT - ALISON MC LEOD (02) 6744 1380

8th Oct TYRINGHAM CAMPDRAFT - DI FREEMAN (02) 6657 8143

9th Oct MULLALEY CAMPDRAFT- TAMMY CLARK-LUMBY (02) 6743 7986

14th Oct SCONE CAMPDRAFT - CELIE NOLAN (02) 6545 0140

15th Oct MOLONG CAMPDRAFT - REBECCA BRAZIER (04) 2821 0027

15th Oct WALLAMBA SHOW CAMPDRAFT - BEV HARRIS (02) 6554 1646

22nd Oct MUSWELLBROOK CAMPDRAFT - BRAD SINGLETON (04) 0888 5997

See more Wild Fillies pics from Gunnedah Draft on

page 52 & 53

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Page 19: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

The Barraba Rotary (Inc) Burindi Station Campdraft was held on Saturday 3rd September 2011 with an Encourage draft on the afternoon of Friday 2nd. The weather was very kind to us allowing a lovely day.

There were 420 runs on the Saturday that saw very good Campdrafting with excellent cattle proving a challenge to all competitors. The ground and surrounds looked a picture, and the arena and camp were in top order.

The Club would again like to express their gratitude to the many people who assisted prior, during and after the Campdraft, as without your help we just couldn’t run this day with our Members only. The results are as follows:-

Maiden:- 1st L. Kelleher, eq 2nd 3rd 4th B. Gainey, C. Clarke, C.Farkin, eq 5th C. Clarke, S. Gillogly, K. Tonkin, T. Clarke, W. Simpson, S. Steiger, L. McIlrickNovice:- 1st W. Dunkley, 2nd C. Tonkin, 3rd P. Stevenson, 4th R. McKinnon,5th K. TonkinOpen :- 1st J. Cruikshank, 2nd C. Tonkin, 3rd R. McKinnon, 4th B. Cummins,5th R. McKinnonJunior:- 1st T. Simpson, eq. 2nd D. McKinnon, D. McKinnon, eq. 4th H. Watkins,A. CapelJuvenile:- 1st C. Smith, 2nd T. Whistler, 3rd L. Cavanagh, 4th P. Main, Eq. 5th L. Cavanagh, P. Main, S. MillsEncourage:- 1st C. Fielding, 2nd T. Bridge, 3rd L. Kelleher, 4th T. GreensladeEq. 5th M. Jenna, K. Whistler, M. Jenna, J. Cavanagh, C. Kelly

For all Campdraft info and Rotary news go to : www.barrabacampdraft.com.au

From top to bottom: Will DunkleyLachlan EzzySam Mills& Bindy SpreadboroughBelow: Lance Kelleher coming unstuck in the Novice......when you forget to tighten your girth.

Above- Left to right:Kerry Ann TonkinBrody Cummins

Images courtesy Barbara Lee

Page 20: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

Northern Branch Australian Stock Horse Society

NewsThank you to the members that attended our Special General meeting on 7th Sept.

Congratulations to our new Executive

President - Bruce Robson Vice President - Teena Bridge

Secretary – Tania Alderon Treasurer – Michelle Main

NEXT MEETING 7pm 12 Oct , West Diggers TAMWORTH

2011 NORTHERN BRANCH SHOW WHICH WAS TO BE HELD ON 29TH AND 30TH OCTOBER HAS BEEN

CANCELLED.

Thank you to all the Northern Branch members who sent their best wishes and lovely gifts for the arrival of our beautiful daughter Amy Rose Frances. We greatly

appreciate your support, thanks again, Phil, Melissa, Grace and Amy Gamble

2011 Foals

Top left: The Gamble family’s ‘”Jaytee Magnum’” Sire

:Binnia Gunslinger Dam: Pride of Glengyle

Top middle: “Marikas Destiny” - Filly

Left: Daley family’s unnamed filly ; sire Burkes Sambo Dam

Little Bonnet

Right: Di Gammocks filly - “Destinys Choice” out of

Clairvale Matilda

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Page 21: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

This years ABCRA National Finals Campdraft has an impressive list of trophies, money, buckles, rugs, awards, vouchers and saddles up for grabs. Binnia Impressive Destiny and Troy Palmer lead the way to the National Finals. As the weather warms up and spring kicks into gear so does the Campdrafts points tally, as all contenders are looking to make their way to the ABCRA National Finals Campdraft in January.

Troy Palmer is the stand out at this point in time. Having a convincing lead in the Most Successful Rider. Troy is also the proud owner of Binnia Impressive Destiny who holds the lead in the Open Horse and All Round Campdraft Horse. This stunning black colt is by Acres Destiny and out of Binnia Impression. He has already had several wins this year, being number one at Walcha, Bendemeer, Barraba, and Bundarra. At ten years of age this colt has a busy breeding season ahead, Troy said he is lucky to have a vet not far from home that can check on the mares and assist with the breeding season. With a number of drafts planned in the next few months, it is a busy time ahead. Binnia Impressive Destiny’s progeny are also having a good year being the sire of Replica who is currently sitting second in the Novice standings.

John Duggan from Coolah and Frazer have a lead in the Maiden. Meagan Hopkins and Tom Boy proving a great combination after winning the NCCA Campdraft in March have taken the lead in the Novice.

Lewis Dorney from Markwell is on top in the Juvenile and at only eight years of age Tyler Berkley from Inverell is leading the Juniors. Katie Birney from St George is number one in the Ladies. The lead in the Encouragement is currently a tie between Matthew Sharman and Cassandra Fordham, they are neck and neck for the number one position.

ABCRA National Finals Campdraft -

leaders

Troy Palmer riding Impressive Destiny wins the Open final with 183points

September 17 & 18 saw the 2nd Annual Armidale Stockmans Challenge at the at the Armidale Exhibition Centre. The event was jointly staged by the Northern Tablelands Western Horse Club, Armidale & New England Show Society and the Armidale Campdraft Club, for the specific purpose of raising funds to help improve the facilities at the Armidale Exhibition Centre.

The Stockmans Challenge featured: Two Handed Cutting, Working Cowhorse and an Indoor Campdraft.

Also featured at the event was Jackpot Team Penning, Barrel Race and Reining events.

John Pokarier and his stallion Destination took out Champion position for the Stockmans Challange. He won the two handed Cutting (score of 73), placed 2nd in

the Draft (score 86) and placed equal 3rd in the Working Cowhorse (score 146). He went on to round out the weekend by winning the Stockmans Dash, placing 4th in the barrel race, 4th in the team penning and placing 5th in the reining, showing Destinations true versitility.

Left: John & Destination being presented with their winnings.

Right: John and grandaughter Ella with Destination at the Paradise Lagoons Campdraft where Destination

The 2nd Annual Armidale Stockmans Challenge

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Page 22: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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What’s on calendarCutting

October 2011

National Cutting Horse Associationwww.ncha.com.au

1st OCTOBERNORTHERN RIVERS CUTTING HORSE CLUB, WOODENBONG SHOWGROUNDS. ENTRIES CLOSE 24.9.11. Sec: Sam Wadsworth, P.O. Box 629Casino NSW 2469 ph 0400449315 email: [email protected]

2nd OCT OBERNORTHERN RIVERN CUTTING HORSE CLUB, WOODENBONG SHOWGROUNDS. ENTRIES CLOSE 24.9.11. Sec: Sam Wadsworth P.O. Box 629Casino NSW 2469 ph 0400449315 email: [email protected]

21, 22 & 23rd OCTOBERPEEL VALLEY CUTTING CLUB, ARMIDALE, Entries Close 7.10.11.Championship Show. Sec: Nadean McKenna, P.O. Box 173, Walcha 2353Ph: 67771116 ah only.

Private LessonsHorsmanship and Cutting

Image & Design Mel Spittall

One on one tuition for the beginner to advanced rider in the skills of horsemanship or cutting. From the beginning to the arena.

Learn the skills that Tony shared with Master Horseman PPat  Parelli, Terry Clifford and Tony Piggot (first Australian to win the NCHA Futurity in the USA).

For more information contact Tony Ernst ◆ 0401 123 268 ◆ 02 67 680 151

www.tonyernstcowboylogic.com.au

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Page 23: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

This is Part 2 of a two-part article about cutting horse herdwork best practices.

In Part I, I talked about how you can help yourself make a clean, pretty, flowing cut when you cut a cow that’s near the end of … and on the outside of cattle as they roll around you.When the cow you cut is chosen randomly, it’s called “shape”. When you arrange for a pre-determined cow to be in a good spot to make a credit earning cut in the middle of the arena, there’s no special name for it. You are simply cutting a specific cow.

In this article, Part II, I am going to share some tips with you about how to make cutting a specific cow work for you.

Prior to approaching the herd, whether it is your first, second, or third cut … make sure you locate the cow, or cattle you want to cut BEFORE you enter the body of the herd.

While this sounds pretty basic, it’s easy to feel rushed, and begin moving randomly if you are not disciplined about stopping, locating your cow, and then moving. Of course, you can’t wait too long, and if you must move, stay cool. Usually between your own searching, and the help of your herd holders, you will find your cow. If you can’t, just switch to cutting shape.

As you feel confident about where your cow is located, you and your helpers can now approach the cow with definitive, confident moves to either move it to the outside of the flow … or … drive it confidently up, and through the rest of the of cattle.This is where you take bold action, and earn credit.

Once you begin driving your cow into a good position to make a clean cut, two things are necessary. The first is to drive with authority to control the cow. The second is to make a critical decision during your drive. Notice if the cow is still a good choice depending on how it is acting. As you advance in your skills, you will be able to “opt-off ” to another choice if your cow begins to move quickly, or won’t drive, etc.

Here’s a great way to practice cutting specific cattle at home. If you have access to used cattle at home, try the following exercise. If you have a practice, or turnback horse to do this repeatedly, it’s even better!

Pick a certain cow prior to entering the herd, and make it your goal to put that cow on the outside of the flow. If you can make that happen, great!

If your cow moves into the body of the herd, practice driving her up through the other cattle. Be aggressive, and move forward. One tip for making that happen is to move into her shoulder/neck area before she rounds the top of the arc of the flow. Catch her before she rounds the bend! Be aware to move with your cow so you might simultaneously allow “traffic” to leave if you can.

Cutting specific cattle … moving around in the herd … seeing the situation develop … and responding well … all these things are FUN as you develop your skills on your cutting horse.

Enjoy becoming more and more aware of what’s happening in the herd, and increasing your ability to be responsive to an ever changing situation. It’s one of the cool things that separates cutting from other sports.

By Barbara Schulte www.barbraschulte.com

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Page 24: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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What’s on calendarDressage

Dressage NSWwww.dressagensw.com.au

Tamworth Dressage Club www.tamworthdc.equestrian.org.au

Dressage NSW October 2011 1/2nd October Orana Equestrian Club Champs Dubbo Sharon Kirby 0428 638 101 www.oranaec.equestrian.org.au

2nd OctoberUpper Hunter Scone Robyne Smith 02 6545 1142 www.uhda.equestrian.org.au

2nd October Dungog Dressage Club Dungog Michelle Earnshaw 02 4987 0044 www.dungogdressageclub.webs.com

3rd October Galston Riding Club Galston Mary Werick 0402 974 449 www.galstonequestrianclub.org.au

8/9th October DNSW Event O Clarendon Karen Lever 4576 7996 www.dressagensw.com.au

9th OctoberSingleton Dressage Club Singleton Carol Cairney 0409 743 718 www.singletondressageclub.org

9th October Young Dressage Assoc Bendick Murrel Karen Glendenning 6341 1148 www.youngda.equestrian.org.au

15/16th October NSW Pony Dressage Champs SIEC Kelly Hattersley 0419 435 767 www.dressagensw.com.au

15/16th OctoberAlbury Wodonga Dressage Club Albury Andrea Williams 0412 859 756 www.awec.net.au

16th October Monaro Equestrian Assoc Cooma Belinda Mackintosh 0405 319 554 www.mea.net.au

16th OctoberSouthcoast Eq Club Albion Park Frances Simmonds 4236 0680 www.southcoastequestrianclub.com.au

16th October Sugarloaf Cobbity Eq Club Cobbitty Pam Wood 0417 677 638 www.scec-dressage.com

16th October Mudgee Dressage Club Mudgee Lesley Archer 6331 5049 www.centralwestdg.equestrian.org.au

16th October Bulahdelah Dressage Club Bulahdelah Kerry Turnbull 4997 8168 www.bulahdelahdressage.org.au

22nd October Hawkesbury Riding Club Clarendon Gail Kroon 0414 249 307 www.hawkesburyridingclub.com.au

23rd OctoberHoofbeats Adult Riding Club Elem Ebenezer Monique Baker 02 4576 7571 www.hoofbeats.org.au27-30 National Championships O/CH/

CODE: CH: Championship; O: Official; A: Associate;

YH: Young Horse; P:Pony; F: Freestyle; S: Semi-nar; M: Members day; T: Training day. Levels: Pr:Preliminary N: Novice etc...

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Page 25: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

www.hor-

Part 2 by Bert Hartog

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A young horse that is being trained to become a riding horse first needs to experience the concept of co-operation with humans on the lunge rein. Through systematic lunging not only will the horse become stronger and more able to carry the rider, it will also teach him what certain voice commands mean.

This is very important for the horse when it is being ridden for the first time. He does not only have a great problem to re- establish his balance - as the natural balance is disturbed by the weight of the rider - but at the same time he has to learn to understand that the rider gives certain signals, with the reins and legs, which he has to obey. To make it clear for the horse that he has to go forward from the pressure of the leg, the rider can at the time he applies the pressure of his legs, say the command which has already been taught to the horse on the lunge.

It does not take long before the horse understands that he has to go forward into walk or into trot if the legs of the rider exert a light pressure. The more obedient

the horse was on the lunging rein to the commands of walk or trot, the more the horse will keep his mental balance when the same thing is asked under the rider. Do not under estimate this! If the rider is able to keep his horse mentally balanced (full of confidence, not frustrated) during the whole training towards the more advanced dressage, he can be assured of the co-operation of his horse, and that is worth a lot. Allow your horse the time to let any new exercise sink in. This is applicable for every new exercise in his career as a dressage horse.

Once the voice aid is not necessary anymore, the rider can take a whip in his hand to support the leg aids. Not one of these extra long dressage whips which are totally unsuitable for this work. The rider must be able to touch his horse everywhere with the whip without the horse shying at it. Often you see a helper give the whip to a rider while he keeps it hidden behind his back, because he could not approach the horse without him shying away. It speaks for itself how patient and understanding this rider has been with his horse... No, that is not the way to do it.The whip is meant to make the horse attentive to the request of his rider and if necessary stress this request. The request has to be put into a language the horse has to learn to understand and after a while, does indeed understand. On one condition: The rider has to speak in a clear language.

That language is expressed through the aids that the rider gives his horse. This means, that the way of expressing must always be the same - the rider must always speak the same language, he must be consistent with his aids. Always exactly the same aid for the same request. It is not easy to be really consistent, certainly not for the less experienced rider. However, this must not be the reason not to try at all. You must keep on trying until it becomes a habit hopefully with the correct aids. The whip is used if the horse does not, or does not sufficiently react to the legs of the rider. The tap, or with complete disobedience, the smack, is placed behind the calf of the rider, because it is there (the place of the aid) to which the horse has to be obedient.

Suppose the rider asks the horse to trot on with a light leg aid, but he only responds after a tap with the whip. Then the rider should allow the horse to trot for a little while, take him back to walk quietly, and again apply the same quiet leg aid to ask him to trot again. If the horse has understood the message and makes an obedient transition to trot, do not forget to praise the horse. If he is not obedient, then the rider must stress the request with a tap of the whip, but a controlled tap. Do not give a stronger leg aid!!! Keep repeating this procedure until the horse has understood completely that he has to obey a light leg aid. The leg aid must be short. Lengthy squeezing with the calf.

Page 26: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

Four seasons in four days at the NSW Dressage Championships!

Thursday 11 September dawned bright and sunny at AELEC for the start of the State Championships and Paralympic Nomination Event for the 2012 London Paralympics. Competition got under way at 9.30am with the Horses and Riders all set for an exciting four days of events. Friday’s prediction of rain came true with what seemed like a never ending downpour, everyone rallied and the arenas held up with the brave competitors coping well with the adverse conditions. The next season to contend with outdoors on Saturday was the fierce wind accompanied by a chill factor which appeared to be coming straight from the North Pole. The morning start was delayed slightly in the Indoor Arena with an evacuation order being broadcast as the Fire Alarm was set off by our volunteer hostess Margaret, cooking raisin toast for those who had an early start. Fortunately, the Saturday evening Freestyle to Music Competitions were held in the Indoor Arena, they were very entertaining as always and for those who partook in the “Pasta & Curry Capers” there was the added bonus of a delicious meal accompanied by a warming glass of wine. Sunday brought us back to Autumn with the final events of the Championships completed around 3pm. The Competition was tough over the four days with the maximum number of competitors in each event, most of which also had reserve lists.

The Championships were once again, a great success, helped by the impressive facilities AELEC has to offer and the small but dedicated local committee organising the event under the watchful eye of Dressage NSW. The committee would also like to thank the many sponsors and volunteers who gave up their time to help, particularly with the challenging weather conditions on offer.

Congratulations to the Champions and other Special Award winners:

Para Equestrian Nomination EventThe first nomination event for the Para-Equestrian riders for the 2012 London Games kicked off in spectacular style in Tamworth over the weekend, with a total of 22 athletes taking part.Not even the rain and cold weather could deter athletes who were able to make the most of the stunning venue in Tamworth. National Para-equestrian Performance Director, Julia Battams, said the level of competition at the first nomination event has certainly set a benchmark.

“We had some new athletes and horses take part on the weekend, with a lot of personal best scores and exciting results,” she said.“The competition among the Para-equestrian athletes has certainly increased since Beijing and even WEG (World Equestrian Games).  With only four spots available on the Paralympic Team for 2012, competition is certainly going to be fierce, with everyone really lifting,” said Battams.

While there were many highlights over the weekend, Hannah Dodd on Waikiwi FE and Lesley Smit (Willow Tree Serendipity), both National Squad members, dominated the Grade IV competition. Dodd took first place in all three tests, with Smit finishing second each time.

This was also the case in the Grade II competition, with National squad members Grace Bowman and Fleur Lister taking out 1st and 2nd respectively in all three tests.Full results can be found at dressagensw.com.au/states

Preliminary: Champion:      Milfield Dominique -  Glenda de Wit (NSW) Reserve:    Fidelity – Kate Wilson (QLD)Novice: Champion:  Bradgate Park Jatzz - David McKinnon (NSW)Reserve:     Fioretta – Cassia Montgomery (NSW)Elementary: Champion:  Bradgate Park Jatzz - David McKinnon (NSW)Reserve:    Lets Kiss N Tell – Lizzie Wilson Fellows (NSW)Medium: Champion:   Luxor 118 – Daniella Dierks (NSW)Reserve:    Aber Hallo 29 – Daniella Dierks (NSW)Advanced: Champion:  DP Weltmeiser – Brett Parbery (NSW)Reserve:    QEB Good as Gold – Brett Parbery (NSW)Prix St Georges: Champion: Solletico – Cathy Chittenden (NSW)Reserve:    Neversfelde Weltsong – James Collin (NSW)Intermediate I: Champion:  Prestige VDL – Sheridan Ashwood (QLD)Reserve:    Neversfelde Weltsong – James Collin (NSW)Intermediate Freestyle: Champion:      Kooinda Saint – Mark Arthur (NSW)

Reserve:    Nevesfelde Kudu – Alycia Targa (NSW)Intermediate II: Champion:   Regardez Moi – Heath Ryan (NSW)Reserve:    Weltsohn – Roger Fitzhardinge (NSW)Grand Prix: Champion:  GV Bullwinkle – Rozzie Ryan (NSW)Reserve:    Northern Campion - Nadia Coghlan (NSW)Grand Prix Special: Champion:    GV Bullwinkle – Rozzie Ryan (NSW)Reserve:    Northern Campion - Nadia Coghlan (NSW)Grand Prix Freestyle: Champion:    GV Bullwinkle – Rozzie Ryan (NSW)Reserve:    Regardez Moi – Heath Ryan (NSW)State EA Teams Competition: 1st: NSW (Bradgate Park Jatzz, Aber Hallo 29, DP Weltmieser)2nd: QLD (Riverview Cinderella, Brentanus, Lauries As)State FEI Teams Competition: 1st: NSW (Kooinda Saint, Donnabella, Regardez Moi)2nd: Qld (Elliott Patterson, BJ Kaneta Casablanca, Kings’s Legend)NSW Regional EA Teams Competition: 1st:  Central West (Noble Monarch, Sandrels, Heatherton Park Gift)Cinderella Award: Robbie Soster – Robali Razzamattazz

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A Para-Equestrian is simply a rider that due to their disability has an exemption or ID card that enables them to use auxiliary aids that able bodied riders cannot.These disabilities may be the result of a birth defect, an accident, stroke, illness etc. Sometimes the disability is not visually apparent – but never the less it is there.

The riders are classified into various grades –• 1A – these riders are mainly wheelchair users with no or moderate trunk balance, with severe impairment of all four limbs. These tests are walk only.• 1B – the riders are mainly wheelchair users with either poor trunk balance or the limitation of function in all arms and legs. Riders with poor trunk balance but good arm functions are also eligible in this class. These are walk/trot tests.• 2 – the riders are mainly wheelchair users or those with severe movement disabilities, involving the trunk balance, but with good to mild arm functions. Riders with loss of function of both arm and leg on one side of the body are also eligible in this class. Tests are of Novice level but excluding canter movements.• 3 – riders are mainly able to walk without support. They may have either disabilities in both arm and leg on one side of the body, moderate disabilities in both arms and legs or severe arm disabilities. Tests are of Elementary/Medium standard.• 4 – riders have a disability in only one or two extremities or some visual impairment. Tests are of Medium/Advanced standard.

Classification is an attempt to ensure fair and equal opportunity for riders with a disability to compete in equestriansport.Classifications are conducted by a qualified physiotherapist or doctor (who has been accredited at an FEI PE classifierscourse.A rider with vision impairment is also assessed by an ophthalmologist or optical doctor.

Often as a rider progresses, or maybe has just had a treatment, (physio etc)or their horse has got used to their strange ways, all the auxiliary aids are not needed.

Adaptive equipment you may see includes –• Special saddles• Velcro (brilliant stuff)• Rubber bands on stirrups• Straps from stirrup to girth• Various adapted reins etc

Riders graded 1, 2 and 3 compete in a 20 x 40 arena. It is only the grade 4 riders that compete in a 20 x 60 arena. The reason for this is safety. Para Equestrian riders are no different from any other riders – they have dreams and goals just like we do. They strive to compete at a State and National level, and in some cases even Internationally.

They are well aware of their disabilities and are always looking for ways to overcome them. They don’t need or want your sympathy, just your acceptance of them as a rider/person.I sometimes think they are lucky in that they know what their disability is – how many of us know what ours is.

Article by:Sue BrightNational A level judge, Judge Educator/Mentor, Chair of Selectors for Paraequestrian Australia

What is a Para-Equestrian Dressage Rider

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What’s on calendarEndurance

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NSW Endurance Riders Association www.nswera.asn.au

Tamworth & District Endurance Clubwww.tamworthanddistrictenduranceclub.org.au

October/November 2011

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Tom Quilty Gold Cup 30th -1st Oct Mt Pleasant SA

Woodstock 16th Oct80/40/20Helen Lindsay 6342 9289

Tennesse Orchard Yerrinbool 23rd Oct80/40/20Sue Warren 0412 012 102

Kiwarrak Cup 29th -30th Oct80/40/20Abby McMurrich 6550 6337

Snowy Zone Championship, Coolamon 6th November120/80/40PrenominateLouise McCormack 6226 5626 NSW FEI Championship 19th - 20th November Tami Parnell 6734 2253026734 2257

Central West Zone 2 Championship, Windeyer 20th November80/100 elevator 40/20Mick O’Hare 63733932

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Tack equipment failure is the bane of endurance riders. Luckily, there are only a few items that are subject to the rigors of stress, and some lightweight replacements you can carry on trail:

Reins - always carry an extra set in your tack box to replace a failing or failed pair at the ride. On trail carry a piece of bailing twine which can double as an extra set of reins in a pinch.

Stirrup leathers - again, carry an extra set in your tack box, and on trail carry a piece of bailing twine, or use an extra stirrup leather as a belt. You can also put one around your horse’s neck and use it as a grab strap in the meantime.

Carabiner Clips - carry one or two of these so-called mountain climber’s clips attached to the rings of your saddle. As an emergency fasteners they are the best -- strong, lightweight, easy to use.

Girths - always have one to two girths in reserve in your tack box, and only use girths that have at least two buckles on each end.

Horse shoes - carry an easy boot with you on the trail to cover for lost shoes. If your horse is shod have at least one set of pre-formed shoes in your tack box so that the ride farrier can replace a lost shoe quickly with the same brand shoe as on your horse’s other hooves.

When your horse just ‘Ain’t Doing Right’Many horses during the ride will hide signs of impending problems under the cover of adrenaline. But a smart rider will notice something “not right”, and should always be pro-active in determining if the problem is minor and fleeting, or something more serious. Warning signs to look for are:

- sudden disinterest in going down the trail- refusal to drink midway through the ride- refusal to eat anything at all (including grass)- a “far away” look in the eyes- sudden stumbling or weaving down the trail- quitting - could be anything from simply just being hungry, to the serious condition of rhabdomyolysis(aka: tying up)- dark brown or red urine - an indicator of rhabdomyolysis (tying up) a very serious condition that demands immediate medical treatment- constantly trying to lie down -- an indicator of colic, again a very serious condition

Horses are subject to the same physical afflictions as human marathon athletes. They have good days, and bad. Minor colds or illnesses or traveling stress can be a limiting factor and sap the horse’s strength to the point where it can be lethargic going down the trail. Always watch your horse’s attitude and way of going. Give it the benefit of the doubt when you notice minor changes -- it may just be fatigue brought on by the type of trail, need for food, or need of a rest. Give the horse a break -- get off, let it graze, or just let it relax in a nice stream for a few minutes to refresh and rejuvenate. If the problem goes away, you’ll be able to recognize it again next time and be ready sooner. If the problem lingers, or gets worse, you can always stop on the trail and send word to the next vet check (via passing riders) to bring the horse ambulance to get you. If you have come into the vet check have the vet check your horse carefully. Tell the vet what you’ve noticed and if they feel the situation warrants it, they will send your horse over to the Treatment Vet to be treated.

Sometimes the problem is nothing, sometimes it is critical. Trust your instinct and follow your inner voice. When it comes to your horse’s health don’t take anything lightly that appears to be serious.

Accidents on the TrailFallen riders, metabolic horses, and runaway horses are three of the major hazards facing riders on the trail. The start is the worst place for accidents because the excitement and adrenalin are high, horses are fresh, and the weather is usually cool and inviting.

If you see a rider come off, STOP and render assistance if possible. Make sure the rider has not suffered a concussion, and that they have no broken bones. If their injuries are not serious, but their horse has gone, get their number and continue on, reporting the incident and rider number at the next vet check or to a trail spotter if the ride management has them out on trail. If a rider is seriously hurt from a kick or a fall, stay with them and send someone on to the next vet check to get help. Don’t ever leave a fallen or injured rider who is disoriented, or too hurt to get up or walk.

If a horse suffers an accident or metabolic problem on the trail, make sure the rider doesn’t need any immediate assistance, then continue on to the next vet check , or ride spotter, to report the problem. If the rider had requested an ambulance, have the ride management at the vet check send one back to the rider.

If you hear a runaway horse thundering up behind you, MOVE OUT OF THE TRAIL. Do NOT attempt to grab the reins or you might end up being pulled off your own horse. If the horse comes to a halt further up the trail, then you can attempt to catch it and return it to the rider, or tie the reins to the tree for the rider to come upon the horse themselves.

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What’s on calendarEventing

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Coaches & TrainersNorm Hindmarsh

Southern Cross WarmbloodsPH: 02 6767 1404M: 0429 862 854

[email protected]

Sharmayne SpencerHeritage Hill

PH: 02 6760 5554M: 0414 577 273 - Sharmayne

M: 0447 328 [email protected]

Eventing NSWwww.eventingnsw.com.au

Quirindi Eventing Incwww.quirindieventing.com

Tamworth International Eventingwww.tie.equestrian.org.au

Please go to www.eventingnsw.com.au for more information on the following events:

1st - 2nd October MIRRABOOKA CIC New to 2*8 th - 9th October Coffs Harbour Enc to 1*15th - 16th October GOULBURN CIC Prelim to 3*22nd - 23rd October Wallaby Hills Intro to 1*29th - 30th October CANBERRA CIC Prelim to 3*5th - 6th November Hidden Valley N, I, P, PN26th - 27th November Berrima N, I, P, PN, *.

October/November 2011

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Page 31: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

THROWING AWAY THE REINS

Problem Many people are taught to reach for their horse’s ears over a fence. This helps protect the horse’s mouth from inexperienced riders but throwing away the reins will cause you to lose all the impulsion you had coming into the fence, and the horse is unlikely to get enough lift to clear the obstacle.

Top tip Once you are capable of remaining stable over a fence, you should try to maintain a consistent contact.

LOOKING DOWN

Problem Looking down will cause you to tip forward. Your weight will then be over the horse’s shoulder as you approach the fence. Your horse won’t be able to lift properly over the jump.

Top tip Look up, fixing your eyes on something in the distance. Your weight will hang in the stirrups, your position will be much more stable and your horse will be able to use his body freely over the fence.

TERRIBLE TOES

Problem I often see otherwise competent riders coming into fences with their weight in their toes. If your weight is in your toes rather than your heels, you’ll be unstable over the fence and are more likely to become unseated if the horse puts in an unexpected stop.

Top tip Your heels should be down, your toes in, and your feet should be parallel to the sides of the horse.

FOLDING TOO SOON

Problem When you’re a bit over-eager coming into the fence and fold too soon, your legs will swing back and then swing forward on landing. This will throw both of you off balance.

Top tip Sink into your horse’s back and follow his movements rather than trying to pre-empt them. Allow the jump to come to you, and let your horse operate underneath you.

Improve your jump

Article courtesy of www.yourhorse.co.uk

Experienced show jumper and trainer Carol Mailer highlights the most common mistakes people make, often leading to an unbalanced horse, unbalanced rider, or both.

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What’s on calendarHorse Drawn

Australian Carriage Driving Societywww.acds.org.au

Carriage Driving NSWwww.carriagedrivingnsw.org.au

Tamworth Regional Horse Drawn Clubwww.trhdc.webs.com

October/November 2011

1st/2nd October Qld CDE Championships

9th October Rally Day Attunga

5th - 6th November NSW CDE CHAMPIONSHIPS

13th November Social club drive - Venue TBA - Tamworth Regional Horse Drawn

2oth November Australian Show Driving ChampionshipsTo be held at the Hawkesbury Showground hosted by the Hills Harness Club for further details please

contact Jan Muspratt on (02) 906 6085

2011 Interclub Challenge

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Monthly news fromOur Carriage Driving School held in conjunction with the NSWACDS General Meeting was a fantastic success. With approximately 50 people attending on Saturday from as far away as Canberra, Southern Highlands, Sydney and the Hunter just to mention a few and 30 on Sunday all went like clock work, even the light rain Saturday and pursuing thick fog Sunday morning didn’t put a damper on everyone’s enthusiasm. We were joined by five members of the Tamworth Riding for the Disabled and there lovely grey pony Simon.

Whilst the state meeting was in progress Saturday morning the attendees of the school where given a very in depth and educational insight into the harness horse, safe harnessing, different types of equipment needed (just to mention a few) thanks to Gary Harris and John Tonkiss. Their expertise was well appreciated and everyone had the opportunity to ask questions and expand their knowledge.

After a lovely lunch the State President Brendan Dwyer along with the Secretary Judy Harris as well as Show Driving Convener Jan Muspratt assisted by Carol Fitzpatrick took over the instruction. Brendan and Judy took half of the drivers covering dressage especially driving the corners correctly in addition to whips and whip handling and correct contact on the horse’s mouth through the bit.

Whilst Jan and Carol took the others covering practical work involving show driving and an insight into judging and what the judge looks for in the different harness classes.

Sunday morning saw the groups swap and through the thick fog they persevered until it lifted and then a beautiful sunny day shown through. Instruction continued until lunch time and when we all enjoy a great bbq lunch and took the opportunity to thank the instructors and present them with a small token of our appreciation. After lunch we where given the opportunity to demonstrate our newly learnt skills in the show ring with Judy Tonkiss officiating followed by a demonstration for the members of the RDA on how to load and unload a wheel chair into their sulky. This would have been the first time most of our members would have seen this being done and was found to be very informative. John Tonkiss then had us negotiate a challenging but fun driving course, with a couple of clear rounds most did manage to knock down a cone or two. It was a fun way to finish off what was an incredible weekend.

Tamworth won the 2011 Interclub Challenge Weekend held at Stroud Showground 3rd/4th September. Tamworth won convincingly over the Hunter Horse Driving Society. We where all given a challenging but enjoyable observation drive Saturday with Tamworth taking out all 3 top placings, then after a wonderful dinner we set about winning a hard fought but fun trivia quiz. Then Sunday saw the battle heat up with the long rein course, barrel race, water race and basket ball race all being excellently driven by everyone. After the scores where tallied Tamworth come out winners. Our thanks go to the Hunter Club for a great weekend; the weather was perfect and the company excellent and we look forward to hosting the event next year, the Hunter Club better practice over the next 12mths.

Check out our club website for all the latest events, our great photo gallery section and calendar details for our club www.trhdc.webs.com you will also find us on face book.

Happy driving, Liz O’Brien 042 7766 726 [email protected]

Driving School

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From an article by Ken Simmonds printed in the ACDS Journal June 1996

Origin: Sydney early 20th century

Shafts – hickory or spotted gum, dressed with ½ round shaft leathersSprings – two side springs and one rear spring secured with brass deesSteps – one on each side, double step on left, known as the ladies’ step.Dashboard – curved wood with a brass rail surroundFloor Tray- half round shape with mat; bell secured on underside; footrest of brassWhip socket- secured on edge of shaft near seat, either brass or woodSeat- motor back, brass seat rails, brass seat risersUpholstery- leather (in original vehicles), or vinyl, with a roll on top and buttoned below. Cushion with 5 inch roll on front edge. Seat drop scrolled raised work fastened to the seat edge and seat screw protruding 2 inches below at centre of drop.Mudguards – carved wood, double sweep and brass supports. All visible bolt fittings can have a brass acorn type nut secured.Wheels - wooden wheels with sarven centres, rubber tyred with brass hub caps. The axle has a carved. Wooden bed to provide extra strength. Show sulkies must not be too dished in the wheels. From The rear the ideal is a 1/8 inch dish. Horse size wheels: 46 inches, galloway 44 inch and pony 40 inch. The rubber tyres are 1 1/8th inch on horse wheels and 1 inch on pony wheels.Paintwork - seat, mudguards, dashboard and floor tray are always black.Bodywork – dark green, dark red, deep dark blue, maroon or all blackLining – horse sulkies are always straight lined – two fine lines together or one single line 1/8th inch wide. Pony sulkies may be ‘Yankee lined’.

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Notes from an article paraphrased by Kirsten Breyer in the ACDS Journal June 1998

The apron protects the driver’s clothes from being soiled by the reins, and prevents the reins from falling between the driver’s legs. It should come to about the ankle when standing and should be wide enough to tuck in well, when seated. Suitable fabrics are washable wool blends which drape nicely. Some upholstery fabrics are also suitable. If using a lightweight fabric, lining gives it more body. The best way to pick a colour is to ask a friend to photograph you with your turnout and go shopping with the picture. Solid colours to coordinate with your turnout are appropriate, as are small patterns such as checks. Colours and patterns should not overpower the clothes you are wearing. Fawn is always traditional. Monograms may be applied to the solid coloured apron at about knee level on the right hand side or centre of the apron if desired. A pattern for making a driving apron is in the ACDS Show Driving Handbook

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Including ideas from an article by Patricia Mann in the ACDS Journal March 2002.

Trimming – If your horse / pony is a recognised breed that requires full feather, mane and tail eg shetland or Friesian you don’t need to do any trimming except perhaps to lightly tidy up a ‘beard ‘ under the jawline.Otherwise – tidy up fluffy ears by holding the ear together and trimming off the long hair down the line of the ear. Clip off white socks and blazes, but not too short, as it helps to give that true white look. Trim the jawline. Whiskers are there for a purpose so I never touch them, but many show horses do have trimmed whiskers. Trim fetlocks but remember that fetlock hair helps drain water off the leg.

Washing – use a baby shampoo for your horse’s face – won’t irritate the eyes so much. Drizzle water down from near the poll , put some baby shampoo on a clean sponge and gently massage all over the face and ears. Rinse thoroughly. You may need to gently sponge the ears as horses hate water in their ears. Wet him all over, and add a good quality horse shampoo to a bucket of warm water. Use a big sponge. Pay particular attention to the mane, tail and white socks. Clean the hooves with what’s left over in the bucket, and a stiff brush, keeping away from the coronet band. Thoroughly rinse all traces of shampoo from his body, mane and tail. Finally condition the tail, and rinse again.When all is squeaky clean scrape off the excess water and towel dry the face, tail and mane.

Put on a clean cotton rug, hood and tailbag, and depending on the temperature, you may need to add heavier rugs. These help to flatten and keep the coat sleek. If you don’t have a stable, tie him up until he is dry.Further Preparation All white socks need to be filled with talcum powder when they are wet as the talc takes up the water, sticks to the socks and stops dirt lodging on them. Next morning you can just brush it out. Remember to put it on thickly.A clean stable and clean bedding is the ideal situation for overnight.

Your harness and vehicle must also be cleaned, and clothes organised. Pack the transportation the night before so all you have to do is organise the horse the next morning.Next morning, get up with plenty of time to get to the showgrounds and then plenty of time to get ready for your classes. Get there at least an hour before your first class.

If plaiting, it is a good idea to do this at home before you go. Hooves can be dressed then too. If plaiting, use lots of little plaits for a thick neck and slightly bigger ones for a thinner neck. Although wool trim is traditionally only for heavy horses and hackneys, many show drivers with non hackneys use it to great effect. It should not be too obtrusive.Clean out the hooves. Then use a wide black felt pen to draw a line along the coronet band and fill in with hoof black. White hooves are best left scrubbed clean, without any dressing.The tail should be carefully separated and combed out. Remember not to brush or comb it too much as this helps pull hairs out, and they take a very long time to grow again. Trim off the tail length as you see fit but at least 4 inches below the hock.

Compiled by Janet Muspratt

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www.horsefaceveils.com

I applaud horse companies for bringing out UV safe rugs but what about the face, that bit at the end of it called the muzzle that just seems to stick out?! Ok, so not every horse has pink skin or a white nose, but they may have other problems like, rain scalding down the front of the face, white rimmed eyes/blue eyes, be photosensitive to the light, have injuries that need protecting, or bandages that need to be covered and protected.

My horse Lucky had a white nose but after a couple of months from moving from Victoria to Qld, it started turning pink, he was getting sunburnt! I couldn’t find anything that I thought would do the job in protecting it so I started to make my own ‘veil’. Unfortunately, a few months later my Lucky died from colic and now I sell them in his memory under the name “Horse Face Veils HFV™”.

I wanted a good product so I started researching and designing…..what materials to use, how to make it UV safe, how to keep it on the horse without it causing harm or discomfort. I came up with 96% UV protection, which is the highest on the market today and the materials I use in the veils come from all over the world, and I thought it would be easy!!! I also talked to many horsey experts in regards to the make up of the horses head ie the skeletal aspects and general safety and am happy to say my veil is totally loose around the throat and jaw area and it comes off if caught!!!!!!

I started off with my first veil that I put on Lucky’s halter, I ended up with 5 more designs like my HFV Fly (also called Sunglasses for horses), HFV Bridle (to wear while riding), HFV Eye (these are for horses that have white rimmed eyes but get freaked out if something is on or covering their eyes, they are little hat brims over each eye).

I know i would rather spend $30 on a mask than a $3000 vet bill to get cancer removed from my horses beautiful face.

So if you’re having similar problems that I have mentioned you might like to check out my website and see if any of my products will help you and your horse……I hope I can.

Happy and safe riding …….. from Kirsten

Is your horse getting sunburnt?….. there is a solution!

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www.qssunraysia.com.au

www.qssunraysia.com.au

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What’s on calendarHorsemanship

MEL FLEMING ~

‘Banyandah’ Howlong, NSWOctober 1st - 13thULTIMATE HORSEMANSHIP EXPERIENCEIntroductory course - 5 days - Oct. 1st-5thIntermediate course - 7 days - Oct 7th-13thIt is possible to do both courses or just one of the courses.

Harden, NSW October 29th-31stIntermediate courseCONNECTING WITH HORSES & RIDING WITH SYNCHRONICITY

Macksville, NSWNovember 26th-28thIntroductory coursePrivate lessons CONNECTING WITH HORSES & RIDING WITH SYNCHRONICITY

New England Natural Horsemanship Clubhttp://web.me.com/newenglandhorseclub/newenglandhorseclub

Horse Agility Australiawww.horseagility.com.au

Parelliwww.parellinaturalhorsetraining.com

Mel Flemingwww.melfleming.com.au

October/November 2011

AUSTRALIAN NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP CENTRE

5th-11th NovColt StartTamworth, NSWJennifer Hawkins 0267687708 Home 0427302598 Mob

12th-15th Nov4 Day Savvy WeekendTamworth, NSWJennifer Hawkins 0267687708 Home 0427302598 Mob

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1.5 Right brain/Left brainThe horse, as with all creatures, has two sides to its brain; the left brain or logic side and the right brain or instinctive side. When

a horse is thinking it accesses the left side of its brain. When it is reacting or listening to Mother Nature, it accesses the right-brain.

Both sides can have positive or negative responses. For example, when a horse shies at a plastic bag, it does so as an automatic, instinctive response…..it is not

thinking. It is simply listening to Mother Nature’s advice to flee, which is the horse”s primary survival instinct. To the rider, who happened to be sitting on the horse’s back at the time, it is seen as a negative response. Let’s say now that the rider, in all her practice time, has been preparing the horse by teaching it to turn and face her and come to her respectfully when it gets scared. Then if the horse should shy and the rider fell off, by habit the horse

would turn and came to her instead of running off home. This would be a positive right-brain response. The rider has retrained the horse’s

instinct in a positive way.

What would be even better, is if the horse had stayed calm and left brained in a situation like this, had not become scared and listened to Mother Nature but rather listened to the rider and therefore not shied at all. This would be a positive left -brain response.

When a horse switches from right brain to left he’ll do something unique…..he’ll lick his lips. This is an indicator that he has just learnt

something.

So what does all this mean? Let’s say your horse got scared, bucked and you fell off. Because you fell off, he got comfort for acting right brained. Then, he licked his lips. Hmm, bucking brings comfort! * You climb back on and your horse bucks again, this time left brained because he just learnt something from his right-brain response. The moral of the story is…..just like us, horses learn very quickly from patterns, whether they are positive or negative. So whenever you are doing something with a horse, remember it’s not what you do that counts, it’s when you quit doing it.

Licking Lips - the change from right to left-brain

At that moment when your horse switches from right to left-brain, he will do a couple of involuntary actions, a bit like how we gasp or stare when we get a scare or sigh and blink our eyes as we relax.

Signs like licking of lips, blinking eyes and lowering the head are all good indicators that your horse is thinking or down-loading an idea, hence using his left-brain. When your horse is right-brain, his head will probably be high, his ears will be pricked, his eyes will stare, his mouth will be clamped shut and his body will be prone to flight. When the left-brain takes over a gain, you will see the opposite signs; the head will lower, the eyes will start to blink, his body will relax, he will lick his lips. He may even sigh or express air quickly from his nose. These are all clear indicators that he has thought about whatever it was that just happened and logged it away as something learnt.

Whenever you are teaching your horse something new, it’s important to give him the chance to blink his eyes or lick his lips after you quit. If you try to teach him something new and then move on again without giving him time to digest what you have just done, chances are you’ll have to teach him all over again tomorrow.

By Meredith Ransley

The Road To

Horsemanship

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By Lynn Mitchell, Monty Roberts Instructor......

A Tale of Two Wild Brumbies

Part 3.... (cont’d from last month)

Let me begin this instalment of ‘A Tale of Two Wild Brumbies’ with a quote from Monty Roberts. “If all learning is zero to ten, the most important part of learning is zero to one.” This is evident by the progress Cruiser and Princess made during the next week of their training.

It is now possible to catch both Brumbies in their paddock without the need to herd them into a smaller yard. This allows us to start exploring and experience new activities around the farm. Simply going in and out of different gates is new to the Brumbies.

Upon Cruiser’s first visit to the round yard he was understandably nervous about these new surroundings. I lead him around allowing him to take a look at the whole area and familiarise himself with the objects in the arena. When we came to the two wine barrels lying on their sides, Cruiser froze in his tracks. I can only guess at what he may have thought the barrels were but I’m thinking something along the lines of large, horse eating monsters. They were clearly objects he had not encountered before.

I encouraged him to walk past the barrels at a distance of 5 metres all the way around to begin with and gradually reduced the circle we were walking until we were literally centimetres away from the barrels. This gave Cruiser the opportunity to calmly and rationally work out for himself, that the barrels were not a threat to him. The progression to him walking in between the two barrels in a relaxed manner was simple and trouble-free.

Each time a new object or obstacle was introduced to Cruiser the process of having him accept it calmly became quicker and easier. Before long he was walking over trot poles, walking and backing through a trail gate and proudly standing on top of the bridge.

Once a relationship based on trust has been established between human and horse, providing the human handler continues to behave in a fair and consistent manner towards him, he will be willing to try anything you ask.

This is where I handed over the lead line to a visiting student from Israel, Mai. Because Mai behaved in the same manner as I had been, Cruiser was just as happy to negotiate all of the obstacles with her as his leader.

It was then Princess’ turn to have a go at all of the obstacles in the arena. Being a little older, wiser and more worldly than Cruiser, she accepted everything with very little encouragement and reassurance required.

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Part 3.... (cont’d from last month)

If you are interested in adopting a Brumby or finding out more about the Victorian Brumby Association contact Colleen O’Brien on 0408 201 107 or visit the website at http://www.victorianbrumbyassociation.org/welcome.

If you would like to find out more about Lynn Mitchell, or attend a course, see the advertisement

for School of Equus in this edition.

Monty Roberts Introductory Course Queensland

With Lynn Mitchell

Saturday September 10th – Sunday September 18thPlaces Limited

Queensland Course LocationAntrim Stud

17341 17341 New England Highway, Allora45mins South of Toowoomba

VISIT THE SCHOOL OF EQUUS WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

or Phone Lynn Mitchell on 0433 239 617

www.schoolofequus.com.au

We then moved on to another necessary task required by all domestic horses to ensure good health is maintained, worming. Many horse owners dread this time as they encounter great difficulty when trying to insert a tube full of not-so-great-tasting paste into their horses’ mouth. Common problems are, the horse not standing still, tossing their head or very effectively managing to spit most of the paste out. These problems are easily avoided with correct initial handling or retraining of the already problematic horse. As you can see in the photo of our not-so-wild-anymore brumby, Princess, worming is just a simple activity that is over in seconds. Cruiser was just as easy to worm, although he did make a very funny face afterwards! It clearly wasn’t lucerne-flavoured paste.

I’m spending time at the moment handling the Brumbies legs a lot. This is a gradual process of them first allowing me to touch each leg, then gradually getting to the stage where I can hold their legs in the correct positions for the farrier and run a rasp over their hooves. I didn’t start handling their legs with my own hand until they were used to having them touched all over with the artificial arm, mentioned in the first article, and then continuing the desensitisation process with plastic bags on the end of a stick. By increasing the level of the stimuli in small increments, the horse has the chance to except it calmly before moving on to the next level.

For this part of the Brumbies training Cruiser is a lot more relaxed about having his legs handled than Princess. I can currently hold up both of his front feet for several seconds and lift and replace his back feet. Princess is more reluctant to give up her weapons but is not far behind Cruiser and improving every day.

I have also introduced the Brumbies to the stables. After a quick check of the concrete surface with their hooves they were happy to follow me in to this new place.

The positive training experiences the Brumbies have had will make the last few steps of their gentling a breeze.

Join me next month for the next instalment of “A Tale of Two Brumbies” where you will see Cruiser and Princess loading onto the float.

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What’s on calendarPolo/Polocrosse/Horseball

NSW Polocrosse Association www.nswpolocrosse.com.au

NSW Polo Associationwww.australianpolo.com.au

Australian Horseball Association www.horseball.com.au

NSW HORSEBALL~ October/November 2011

NSW POLO ~ October 2011 1-2 Riverlands Polo Club 8, 4 & 0 Goal Tournament1-2 Ellerston 14, 8 & 0 Goal Tournament4-6 Scone Junior Polo School8-9 Town & Country Polo Club Tournament, 8, 4 & 0 goal8-9 Ellerston Polo Club 14, 8 & 4 Goal Tournament8-9 CANCELLED: Goulburn Low Goal Tournament (0 and 4-6)13-16 NSWPA HECTOR KING TROPHY - 10 GOAL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS at Scone Polo Club Free entry for Life, Kyeemagh & Annual Members.14-22 Garangula Tournament, 15 goal15-16 Killarney Polo Club 8, 4 & 0 Goal Tournament21 NSWPA Coaching Clinic at Wirragulla, all players22-23 Wirragulla Tournament, at Tabbil Creek Polo Ground, Cemetery Road, Dungog. See www.wirragullapoloclub.com for full details & maps22-23 Sydney Polo Club 6, 4 & 0 goal tournament29-30 Windsor Polo Club, 8, 4 & 0 goal tournament29-30 Timor Polo Club Tournament, Murrurundi

For contact details for the above listed events please go to www.australianpolo.com.au

1st October LochinvarTraining / Competition 15th October NarrabriTraining / Competition 22nd October TamworthAELEC - Training / Competition 29th &30th October TamworthAELEC - Australian Championships

For contact details for the above listed events please go to www.horseball.com.au

Photo by Lyric Anderson Feeding the polocrosse horse

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Dr Nerida RichardsEquilize Horse Nutrition Pty LtdPolocrosse horses are special animals, required to have lightening quick reflexes and react with speed to the slightest aid and yet remain calm and think their way through a game. To keep polocrosse horses on the top of their game they need a diet that provides them with enough energy to get them easily through the work they need to do, but not so much that they become on edge and nervy. Enough protein to build their muscles for strength and agility, but not so much that it causes them to overheat and dehydrate. Enough electrolytes to allow adequate sweating during training and competition, but not so many that their feed becomes unpalatable. Enough forage to keep their gut healthy and aid with hydration, but not so much that it disadvantages them with the extra weight they have to carry around the field. Feeding polocrosse horses is not complex, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind. They are discussed in detail below.EnergyHow much should you feed?How much you need to feed your individual horse depends on your horse, its temperament, how hard you work it and whether it is normally a good or poor doer. Other variables like how heavy you and your saddle are, the quality of pasture if any the horse has access to, how often you train and play and even the weather will affect how much you need to feed your horse.

Knowing how much to feed your horses really comes down to you knowing your own horses. You need to be constantly monitoring their condition scores (to see if they are losing, gaining or maintaining weight) and general attitude to work and adjusting the amount you feed accordingly.

As an example, if you were feeding a horse 3 kg per day of a commercial grain mix together with one flake of lucerne hay and free access to average quality pasture and after a week of work he seemed flat and tired and you noticed he had lost some condition over his ribs and rump you would need to increase his energy intake. For this diet, the easiest way to do this would be to increase the amount of grain mix he was being fed, first to 3.5 kg/day, and if that still wasn’t enough to 4 kg and then to 4.5 kg or more per day if necessary. In the reverse, if you found that your horse was on edge and full of energy and maybe even putting on a little extra condition you would need to decrease the amount of energy in the diet. In this case again the simplest way to do this is reduce the amount of grain mix in the diet, first to 2.5 kg/day, then to 2 kg/day and 1.5 kg/day or less if need be.

While this doesn’t sound very scientific, it is absolutely the most accurate way you have to work out how much you need to feed your horse and you will find you probably do this instinctively already very well.

What source of energy is best?There are three main ways you can add energy to a horse’s diet. These are: 1.Fibre – fibre from pasture, hay and chaff form one of your horse’s most important sources of energy. Fibres are slowly fermented in the horse’s hindgut to give slow release energy in the form of volatile fatty acids. Fibre is the most natural and safest form of energy you can feed a horse and feeding enough fibre is essential to maintain normal gut function and hydration and avoid colic. However hard working horses generally aren’t able to eat enough fibre to meet their daily energy requirements so higher energy feedstuffs like high energy fibres, such as EasiFibre (Lupin Hulls), grains and oils need to be added to the diet.

2.Grains – grains include feeds like oats, corn, barley and rice as well as grain based extruded feeds, pelleted feeds and sweetfeeds and grain by-products like bran and pollard. Grains are an excellent source of energy for hard working horses. They are generally well accepted, they provide more energy per kilogram than fibrous feeds like hay, pasture and chaff and they provide a source of starch which is digested and absorbed as glucose. The muscles use this glucose to build up and replenish muscle glycogen supplies which provide the muscles with crucial fuel for fast sprinting and turning work. If muscles run out of this fuel they fatigue quickly, so some grains in a polocrosse horse’s diet are an advantage to keep the muscle glycogen levels topped up.

If you are feeding grains, be sure to feed cooked grains {extruded}, or steam flaked with the exception of oats which can be fed raw. Uncooked grains are not well digested by horses in the small intestine, but they are rapidly fermented in the hindgut. This means horses get little value out of them and run the risk of problems associated with starch fermentation and hindgut acidosis.

3.Oils – vegetable oils are the highest energy ingredient you can feed a horse, with 2.5 to 3 times as much energy in oils compared to grains and grain based feeds. Oils are particularly useful for finicky eaters who have trouble holding their weight as you can give them a lot of energy in a small feed. Feeding oil also provides the polocrosse horse with a ready supply of fatty acids that the horse’s muscles can burn during slower work allowing them to conserve their muscle glycogen supplies. Up to 4 cups of vegetable oil can be fed per day to horses that struggle to hold their weight while 1 cup per day is enough to provide some glycogen sparing benefits associated with feeding oil.

Because of the sort of work polocrosse horses do, using a combination of all 3 sources of energy is an advantage. Fibre is a must to keep the gut healthy, maintain hydration and to provide slow release energy. Grains and grain based feeds increase the energy density of the diet (so they can eat enough to meet their requirements) and provide a supply of glucose to constantly replenish muscle glycogen supplies while oils further increase the energy density of the diet and provide fatty acids to fuel the muscles during slow work allowing them to conserve glycogen and stave off muscle fatigue.If your horse is prone to laminitis or tying up you should avoid using grains or grain based feeds in the diet. Instead use a diet based on forages, high energy fibres and oil.

Feeding the polocrosse horsePhoto by Lyric Anderson

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ProteinProtein is needed for strong muscle development, the maintenance of healthy bone, tendons and ligaments and sound hoof growth (along with many other essential body functions). The trick with protein is to feed enough of the right type of protein, without feeding too much protein. When considering protein in the diet of a polocrosse horse the focus should be on good quality protein. Using high quality protein means you can feed less protein for a better effect. High quality protein can be found in lucerne, soybean, lupins and canola meal. Look for feeds that contain these ingredients and avoid feeds with low quality protein like unnamed vegetable meals and cottonseed meal.

Feeding too much protein increases the amount of heat generated during the digestion process and means horses need to excrete waste nitrogen in their urine. Both these factors combine to increase water loss from the body and the risk of dehydration, something that must be avoided at all costs in the polocrosse horse.

To keep your horse’s protein intake in check, avoid feeds that you feed in amounts greater than 1 kg/day with high levels of protein (more than 16%), never feed lucerne hay as your horse’s sole source of forage and moderate your use of high protein ingredients like soybean meal.ForageAs already discussed, high fibre forages are an essential part of a horse’s diet. Forages keep the gut filled to reduce the risk of colic, they hold water in the gut to assist with hydration, they supply much needed slow release energy and they take a long time to eat. Chewing on forages keeps horses content, stimulates saliva production and helps to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers.

The key to feeding forage to polocrosse horses is to feed enough to take full advantage of the benefits they offer, but not feed so much that your horse is carrying a significant weight disadvantage during games.

All horses must be fed a minimum of 1 kg/100 kg of bodyweight/day of forage (pasture, hay or chaff). During normal training and rest days it is preferable to feed more than this (up to 2.5 kg/100 kg bodyweight/day), but for two days leading up to a tournament, the amount of forage being fed can be reduce to the minimum of 1 kg/100 kg bodyweight per day. This will reduce the amount of weight your horse has to carry during a game. If the amount of forage being fed is reduced the amount of grain based feed should be increased to compensate for the energy taken out of the diet when forage is reduced. For every 1 kg/day of forage you remove from the diet, increase your grain based feeds by 650 g/day. Be careful not to feed more than 0.5 kg of grain/100 kg of bodyweight per meal. Feeding more than this increases the risk of problems like colic.

ElectrolytesHorses rely on electrolytes to maintain fluid balance and circulatory function, facilitate muscle contractions, trigger nerve functions and maintain the body’s acid-base balance. The main electrolyte minerals are sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and chloride. These electrolytes are lost in large amounts in sweat and must be replenished to avoid critical electrolyte deficiencies and the associated problems that come with that including dehydration, overheating and colic.

Potassium, calcium and magnesium are generally plentiful in forages, so if your horse is getting plenty of forage his day to day requirement for these minerals will be met. Sodium and chloride are generally low in forages and grains and need to be added to the diet. If you are feeding the recommended rates of a well formulated complete feed all you should need to do is make sure your horse has a salt lick available at all times.

On competition weekends additional electrolyte supplementation may be required. Using well formulated electrolyte supplements or electrolytes pastes at the recommended rates together with enough salt to cover a heavy workload and free access to a salt lick will help to keep their electrolyte levels replenished. When administering electrolytes be sure to do it straight after your horse has had a drink or when your horse will have free access to water for 1 to 2 hours. If you suspect your horse is suffering dehydration or electrolyte deficiency you should seek veterinary advice immediately.

Vitamins and mineralsMaking sure your polocrosse horse’s diet contains everything it needs right down to the many essential vitamins and minerals is important if you want to get the best out of them now and in the long term. Meeting requirements for these more obscure nutrients is important for muscle energy generation as well as to maintain a healthy immune system, good joints, strong hooves and to help in avoiding problems like general muscle soreness, fatigue and tying up.

Feeding the recommended amount of a well formulated vitamin and mineral supplement or complete feed will usually mean that your horse’s needs for the most important nutrients like copper, zinc, selenium, iodine, vitamin E and the B-vitamins are met.

If you have a good doer that needs less than the recommended amount of a complete feed the amount of vitamins and minerals in the diet is unlikely to be meeting requirements. In this situation you should ‘top-up’ the diet with a concentrated vitamin and mineral supplement.If you’re not sure if you are meeting your horse’s requirements for vitamins and minerals ask for help from Prydes Easifeed representatives or nutritionist. Getting it right is really important!

Finally ...Polocrosse horses work hard. To make their job as easy as possible for them and to ensure they remain healthy and sound in the long term getting their diet right is critical. Keep the diet as simple as possible, make sure requirements for energy, protein, electrolytes, vitamins and minerals are met but not exceeded and importantly keep the diet palatable so your horses are happy to eat when under pressure and away from home.

This article is sponsored by Pryde’s EasiFeed. EasiResponse, EasiPerformance and Stamina from the Pryde’s EasiFeed range make excellent feeds for Polocrosse horses. For more information on these feeds or for help with putting together a balanced diet

for your polocrosse horse, contact Pryde’s EasiFeed on 1300 732 267 or go to the website www.prydes.com.au.

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ContactsRiding Groups/Pony Club

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CURRABUBULA PONY CLUBCurrabubula Rec GroundsJudith Ann Alston - (02) 6744 [email protected]

BENDEMEER PONY CLUBRodeo recreation groundsFaith Dixon - 02 6769 6530www.bendemeerpc.pcansw.org.au

GUNNEDAH PONY CLUBGunnedah Show GroundsDonna Hall - (02) 6742 [email protected]

KOOTINGAL PONY CLUB Moonbi Sports GroundsJoanne Roberts - 02 6760 [email protected]

ARMIDALE RIDING CLUB INC02 6771 [email protected] www.armidalerc.equestrian.org.au

MANILLA PONY CLUB Manilla Show GroundsColin Donlan - 02 6785 7365

NUNDLE PONY CLUB Taylors LaneWally Whatmore – [email protected]

QUIRINDI PONY CLUB Quirindi Show GroundsRachel Hope Coward - [email protected]

TAMWORTH PONY CLUB Cnr Bournes Lane & Meldorn LaneJim Kolokotas - 02 6760 [email protected]

QUIRINDI & DISTRICT EQUITATION CLUB INC(02) 6767 [email protected] www.quirindiec.equestrian.org.au

Pony Club NSWwww.pcansw.org.au

Duri Progress Association is holding its Open Gymkhana Sunday 30th October 2011 starting at 8.00 am.

This Gymkhana has been held annually for over 50yrs and a good day is assured. Everbody is wellcome to attend.

Enquires Ph.67 680 244.

MANILLA EQUINE SPORTING ASSOC INCVanessa Gibson - 0428 782 973Alison McCarthy - 0447 437 876

ZONE 5THE PONY CLUB ASSOCIATION OF NSW

53rd JAMBOREETUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

4TH & 5TH OCTOBER 2011HOSTED BY

WEE WAA & DISTRICT PONY CLUB INCWEE WAA SHOW GROUND

ATT: If you would like your Pony/Riding Club or event listed for free here

please send all information to:[email protected]

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Manilla Equine Sporting Association Monthly Show!30th October Manilla Showgrounds

....for more information please contact Alison McArthy 0447 437 876

There are a lots of excuses for not wearing a helmet when you ride. But there is no good reason. The quietest, most well trained horse can cause injury if it is startled or hurt. Ask anyone who has

accidentally ridden over a nest of jumping ants, or were riding calmly along when a car backfired. A helmet won’t make you invincible, but it will help protect the one part of your body almost impossible to fix -- your brain. Please don’t use these excuses and do use an approved riding helmet every time you ride.

It’s my head, and I’m willing to take the risk...You might think, it’s my head and I’m willing to take the risk. But, what if your head meets an arena wall, fence post, rock or hard ground? Head injuries can lead to permanent debilitation. And while it may be your head, have you decided who will spend their life

looking after you if you can’t look after yourself due to a head injury? If you think you don’t need a helmet then you should look your son, daughter, spouse, or friend in the eye and tell them: I don’t need a helmet, but if I am wrong it will be your job to care for me.

I can’t wear a helmet in the show ring without being penalized...Dressage riders, western riders, and other folks who compete might feel they will be penalized if they

wear a helmet in the show ring. I can understand this from the judge’s point of view. When comparing two equal riding performances, with one rider wearing a hat, and one a helmet would you consider the helmet a negative? Might it be a disrespect of tradition or a indication of insecurity of the rider? Or is the helmet wearer just showing good sense? I wish judges would reward the later, but unfortunately this often isn’t the case. There is no justification for valuing fashion and tradition over safety. Shame on any judge or association rulings that penalize helmet use.

I know how to do an emergency stop and dismount...Emergency Dismounts - How to Emergency dismounts and emergency stops are useful skills to learn, but they don’t replace a helmet if you take a fall. Falls can happen so quickly that you don’t know you are going to come off, leaving you no time to prepare.

Helmets give me headaches...The solution to this problem is not to avoid using a helmet, but to find one (Compare Prices) that fits. Also, I find I get headaches when I’m out all day with my horse. The problem I discovered (it took me years to realize this) was not the helmet, but dehydration. Riding is a sport and like any athlete you have to care for yourself properly, especially when heat and stress can take their toll.

It will mess up my hair...I have one young friend who can take off her helmet and look like she just walked out of a shampoo commercial as she flings her locks in the sunlight. The rest of us have helmet hair. While a good shampoo and blow dry can do wonders for fixing your hair, brains are a little trickier to fix.

I’m a very experienced rider...A study conducted by a team of Alberta (USA) researchers found that riders who reported an injury had an average of 27 years of riding experience. New riders had a relatively small incidence of injury.

Helmets are hot and uncomfortable...With the number of styles and fits now available there should be a helmet to fit everyone. Many are adjustable for a custom fit. Troxel, Tipperary, IRH ( Compare Prices) are just a few of the manufacturers you can choose from. All have a slightly different fit and are different weights and styles. Try lots of helmets on before you buy. Ask your friends what they like. With a little research you should be able to find a helmet that will keep you both more comfortable and safe.

It’s not traditional to wear a helmet when you ride western...No, it’s not. But consider what the traditional hat of the cowboy really was. It was a form of protection. Cowboys wore gloves to protect their hands, chaps to protect their legs, sturdy boots to protect their feet, and a bandanna to protect their face. Extra cinches, deep seats and tapadaros (hoods) on their stirrups, where all forms of safety protection. Their hats were primarily functional--protecting them from

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My horse is a bay Australian Stock Horse x Riding pony. He is 14.1hh and his name is Malla Mundi Jock and his stable name is Jock. I have ridden Jock for 1-2 years and he is perfect do anything with plus he has a beautiful temperament. I love him!

Ever since I got home from hospital I sat on one of my mums old horses. I have been riding since I was 1 - 2 years old and I have been competing on the lead at the age of three since.

I compete at Pony club, interschools, SIEC and open eventing. I sometimes do Moonbi hack shows on my elder sisters’ young show pony/eventer and I like to ride around on mums medium dressage horse.

I get coached by my mum at home. We go out into the dressage arena and she goes through warming up excersises with me and gives me new tactics for my tests. I do love it however its hard work. After dressage we usually practice jumping. It starts at about 70cm and then it gradually gets bigger up to 1m.

My biggest highlight would probably be competing at Sydney Royal as a team of four representing Zone 5 and my rider class. My team nearly won however it was the gear that had done it and we came second. I

came fifth in my rider class, I was up against top riders from everywhere! I loved it and I think I am going back next year.

: I would like to move up to A grade before I’m 16 and I would like to someday ride for Australia at the Olympics.

I love all things about horses. I enjoy going to pony club and meeting up with my friends at pony camp. I also enjoy it when friends and family come over with there ponies and we have like a mini get together.

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Do you have the most amazing horse? Why not show him you care by fixing him one of these delicious horsey treats!!....

1 cup uncooked oatmeal1 cup flour1 cup shredded carrots1 teaspoon salt1 tablespoon sugar2 tablespoons corn oil¼ cup water (one quarter cup)¼ cup molasses (one quarter cup)

Mix ingredients in a bowl in the order listed. Make small balls and place on cookie sheet sprayed. Bake 177 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Horses love ‘em!

Molasses Oats (any kind will do! Even just plain rolled oats)Carrots and Apples

Mix together loads of molasses to an almost equal amount of oats, add carrots and/or apples and voila! A yummy treat in seconds!!

3 Carrots chopped into small pieces3 apples cut into small piecesCup of oatmeal

Drench cut up carrots and apples in molasses. Roll molasses cover carrots and apples into oats shake. Put in refrigerator, and serve when cooled.

1 cup margarine1 cup all-purpose flour1 cup brown sugar1 cup bran1 cup diced carrots1 cup diced apples1 teaspoon baking soda2 cups quick cooking rolled oats2 eggs

Cream margarine and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs. Combine flour, bran and baking soda. Blend into creamed mixture. Stir in oats, carrots, and apples. Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets and bake at 177 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove and cool. Makes about 4 dozen.

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Australian Barrel Horse Associationwww.abha.com.au

Australian Bushmans Campdraft & Rodeo Association www.abcra.com.au

Australasian Team Roping Associationwww.teamroper.com.au

NSW Rodeo October 2011

Barrel Horse October 2011

1st & 2nd OctWyunaCraig Dowsett - Phone: 02 6347 1188 or 0428 301 030

For more information on the above Roping events please visit: www.teamroper.com.au

Team Roping October 2011

3 OctDivisional Barrel RaceBedgerebong Barrel Race ClubCondobolin Pony Club and Campdraft GroundsKay Mark-wort 02 6857 11230427 796 906 [email protected]

16 OctDivisional Barrel RaceMoonbi Magic Barrel Rac-ing IncMoonbi Western ArenaSusan Worgan 02 6767 1204 or 0427 010 688

16 OctDivisional Barrel RaceCentral West Barrel Horse Club IncSusan Coggan 02 6887 2490 or 0408 827 660 Email: [email protected]

30 OctDivisional Barrel RaceSouthern Barrel Racing ClubTarcutta Recreation GroundsLisa Coates 02 6928 8225 or 0427 802 641Email - [email protected]

02-Oct KUNDABUNG RODEO JOHN SCOTT (02) 6561 5037

08-Oct MENDOORAN RODEO NATASHA SWAN (02) 6886 1402

09-Oct MENDOORAN JNR & DO RODEO NATASHA SWAN (02) 6886 1402

15-Oct BRANXTON RODEO LORRAINE MENSER (02) 6574 7274

22-Oct MUSWELLBROOK CAMPDRAFT RAD SINGLETON (04) 0888 5997

23-Oct COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND TRAINING MAREE MORN (02) 9826 1163

22-Oct TRAINING R GUNDAGAI RODEO COME & TRY JUNIOR DAYFERN APPLETON 02 6944 0200

What’s on calendarRodeo/Barrel Horse

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By Brad Lund

Training a good heading horse takes time and patience. When I introduce my horse to heading, I first teach him to “log” by pulling the ground-driven roping dummy around and teaching him where to keep his body position. For the dummy, I like to have an inner tube on there so there is a little bit of stretch, and it better simulates a steer. That way, it’s just not a solid tug. It has a little give to it.

By logging the horse, I am teaching him to also accept pressure on the saddle horn. Sometimes, when you first ask the horse to pull the dummy around, he will get scared a couple of times. During this training period, I don’t worry about where his body is. I just want him mentally to get used to having pressure on the saddle horn and what it actually feels like to pull something.

I start out at a walk, and then I’ll start trotting as the horse learns how to take some pressure on the saddle horn. As time goes on, I work the horse in straight lines across the arena.

Eventually, I’m going to push his hip away from the rope. When a horse pulls, his natural instinct is to get his hips or his hind legs underneath the rope. When he’s running across the arena, there’s no way that he can face a steer like that. This can be one of the hardest things for a head horse to learn.

While he is pulling the dummy, I keep his rib cage stuck out to the left and his nose tipped to the right a little bit. That way, when I stop him and ask him to face, he’ll be in the proper position.

I also take the dummy and lope with it. When I lope off, I’m going to put the horse in the left lead. When I come to the end of the arena to turn, I’m going to push his hip over and make him move over just like I would if I was heading a steer. That pull has got to be the same just like you’re heading a steer.

When you finally introduce the cow, you will be basically steer stopping, just roping the steer, stopping him and then letting the horse get used to the steer pulling on the end of the rope.

With proper training, you can develop a consistent and dependable heel horse. When introducing a horse to heeling, I start him out just like I would a colt. I make him learn how to follow the dummy so he’s not scared of it. I push him out and push him in repeatedly to teach him how to find it and follow it.

It’s very important for your heel horse to learn to follow. He’s got to have confidence about where his spot is. I might rein him to the left, come back to the right, turn him loose and let him find that spot on his own. For me, that is to the inside of the cow where you can see both feet and both horns.

I have someone pull the dummy, and I ask the horse to follow at a trot. I just want my horse to accept this little contraption in front of him. If my horse gets scared, I don’t punish him. I just let him learn to get up to the dummy, check it out and know it’s not going to hurt him. I’m going to be on a loose rein and let him learn how to follow wherever it goes.

When my horse learns to get locked onto the dummy, I steer the horse away from it and then come back to the cow. I let him find that spot.As the horse is more comfortable with the dummy, I move him out to the right and get his nose even with the steer. I want him to start reading that cow. I want to control his shoulders so he doesn’t drop his shoulders coming around the corner. Try to keep everything straight, all the way through.When I think he is comfortable and ready, I pick up my rope, catch and stop.

When I am training a horse, I concentrate more on my horse than on my roping. When I get close to that cow, I don’t want to focus on catching it right away. I want my horse to learn where to go and be very comfortable and not get uptight or in a hurry.

Horses that learn to head and heel on the ground-driven roping dummy usually are pretty good by the time you introduce them to the cow.

But when you do introduce them to the cow, try to avoid one that is real fresh. When you take hold of the steer, it will go wild, and that kind of spooks the horse. It’s best to first rope on steers that are broken in.

Remember, you want to make this a fun thing for the horse and not something that is stressful mentally. 51

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Out & About with...

Colverleaf Cruisers & ATRA Roping - Double

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Gunnedah Campdraft

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What’s on calendarShowjumping

Showjumping NSWwww.jumpingnsw.equestrian.org.au

North & North West Showjumping Clubwww.nnwsjc.equestrian.org.au

North & North West Showjumping Club hold practice days 3rd Sunday of every month - Tamworth Show Grounds

www.nnwsjc.equestrian.org.au

October 2011

Equestrian NSW Showjumping Championships - Gundagai 30th September - 3rd October Gundagai Showground

Bribaree Show 1st October Berrigan Show 2nd October Griffith Show 2nd - 3rd October

National Future Squad Talent Identification - Jumping 7th OctoberSSJC Clarendon

National Future Squad Talent Identification - Jumping 12th OctoberDubbo Showgrounds

Australian National Championships Dubbo Showground 13th - 16th OctoberDubbo Showground

NNWSJC Practice Day 16th October Tamworth Showground

Somerton Blue Circle Gymkhana 16th October Somerton Racecourse Albury Show 28th - 30th October

Please see pg 56 for a full list of NSW Agricultural Show dates...

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About the AuthorsDon and Karen Sullivan own River Downs Equestrian Centre, They train and compete their home bred warm blood horses in show jumping and dressage. They

also start and train outside horses for clients as well as coaching and conducting clinics.

www.riverdownsequestrian.com

Shopping for the The selection of horses for showjumping is a fascinating topic and pastime – in my business I often have the privilege of assisting clients in this regard.

I think it’s important to remember there are really no hard and fast rules when it comes to selecting horses for any discipline; there will always be exceptions. No one is always right – not every horse I choose will go on to fulfil all its owner’s expectations. However years of study and experience means I am clear in my own mind what I am looking for in a jumping horse and what sort of horse will suit each rider. Therefore I believe I am less likely to make mistakes when assessing a horse’s suitability.

For me the most important characteristic of a horse is his attitude. This means his ability to be trained and to learn, his responsiveness to the rider and having a pleasant temperament. A horse must be accepting of his training and be able to retain what he has learnt. On the first ride (probably 15 minutes or so of flatwork and a little jumping) challenge the horse’s rideability with changes of pace and direction – note how he reacts. Is he accepting of the aids, does he put his ears back with sourness or does he go willingly forward? Does he come back softly and calmly through downward transitions or does he fight the aids? Admittedly much can be improved through correct training but the horse’s basic temperament will remain the same. Jump the horse over a few fences that are well within its ability and level of training; on a first ride the rider should merely be trying to develop a relationship with the horse. Do not try to do too much on a first ride. All you want is a clear indication of the horse’s temperament and level of training – you don’t need to test everything, just gain enough of an impression to allow you to decide if you would like a second ride.

Along with assessing the horse’s attitude you must also assess his appearance - his conformation and movement. Try to gain a general overall impression. Note the look in his eyes, his attitude to his handlers, blemishes, spur marks and so on. I like the eyes to have a soft, friendly look, not small or squinty. Then inspect the feet – good feet are of vital importance for any performance horse. The size of the feet must be proportional to the size of the horse’s body – feet which appear too small for the body are a particular concern. Note if there is anything unusual about the shoeing - pads, wider than normal shoes etc. Does the horse stand straight or toe in or out which could lead to future unsoundness. Although the actual soundness of the horse is a matter for the veterinary prepurchase inspection (which is definitely recommended) carefully examine the horse’s legs for any unusual lumps, bumps or swellings.Many books have been written on conformation and I would recommend you read as widely as possible on this subject. When I look at a horse as a jumping prospect I tend to look at its proportions rather than being picky about any one part of the horse (of course it is still important to identify any major defects). I like the horse to have powerful hindquarters, but not too heavy in the neck and shoulder.

The movement of the horse is very important. The walk should be loose, the steps long with the hind leg stepping well under the body. The trot should be free and the steps swinging and of course soundness is vital. The canter is the most important pace for a jumping horse and it should be relaxed, balanced and elastic.

If, after reflecting on your impressions gained at the first inspection, you decide the horse is a suitable prospect then add some further tests on the second inspection. Begin as on the first day with 15 minutes or so of flatwork then go on to jumping. The jumps attempted must be fairly easy for the horse’s level of training – you don’t want to see how high he can jump just give him an opportunity to show his best. What do I look for in a jumping horse? Basically that he gets from one side to the other and leaves the rails up. Then I start to analyse a little more. I like a horse to be powerful off the ground – he should leave the ground like an explosion. The withers should come up towards the rider, and the horse’s body should make a round shape with a good trajectory over the jump. The horse should look athletic and not stiff throughout the body in the air. If the horse is fairly green I’m not too concerned how neat he is with his legs but it’s preferable that both front legs are fairly even (one up and one down can be a dangerous fault) and I’m not impressed by low jumping horses with a perfect technique. Green horses learn in time to be neat with their legs, the important thing is the desire to jump cleanly. I like the horse to be light, forward and balanced when he lands so he can easily re-establish a rhythmic canter.

Shopping for horses is always an exciting adventure. Remember to stay objective and that there is nothing more rewarding than developing a horse you have selected to its full potential.

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Page 56: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

What’s on calendarShow Horse/Agricultural

Sh

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l www.agshowsnsw.org.au

NSW Agricultual Shows October 2011

For more information on any of the shows listed below, please visit the website above...

pManilla Equine Sporting Association Monthly Show!30th October Manilla Showgrounds

....for more information please contact Alison McArthy 0447 437 876

CULCAIRN P A H & I SOC INCWhere: CULCAIRNWhen: 1 October 2011

BRIBBAREE SHOW SOC INCWhere: BRIBBAREEWhen: 1 October 2011

BERRIGAN A & H SOC INCWhere: BERRIGANWhen: 2 October 2011

GRIFFITH SHOW SOC INCWhere: GRIFFITHWhen: 2 October 2011 - 3 October 2011

MORONGLA SHOW SOC INCWhere: MORONGLAWhen: 3 October 2011

WALBUNDRIE SHOW SOC INCWhere: WALBUNDRIEWhen: 3 October 2011

LEETON SHOW SOC INCWhere: LEETONWhen: 7 October 2011 - 8 October 2011

ILLABO SHOW SOC INCWhere: ILLABOWhen: 8 October 2011

TRUNKEY CREEK SHOW SOCIETYWhere: TRUNKEY CREEKWhen: 8 October 2011

TAREE.MANNING RIVER A & H SOC TAREE INCWhere: TAREEWhen: 8 October 2011 - 9 October 2011

PICTON A H & I SOC INCWhere: PICTONWhen: 8 October 2011 - 9 October 2011

COROWA PA & H SOC INCWhere: COROWAWhen: 9 October 2011

BARHAM KOONDROOKWhere: BARHAMWhen: 14 October 2011 - 15 October 2011

COOTAMUNDRA APH & I SOC INCWhere: COOTAMUNDRAWhen: 15 October 2011

CASINO SHOW SOC INCWhere: CASINOWhen: 15 October 2011

THE ROCK SHOW SOCIETY INCWhere: THE ROCKWhen: 15 October 2011

TOORAWEENAH PA & H ASSN INCWhere: TOORAWEENAHWhen: 15 October 2011

LISMORE. NTH COAST NAT A & I SOC INCWhere: LISMOREWhen: 20 October 2011 - 22 October 2011

JUNEE SHOW SOC INCWhere: JUNEEWhen: 22 October 2011

ALBURY SHOW SOC INCWhere: ALBURYWhen: 28 October 2011 - 30 October 2011

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Page 57: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

p

Fake tails are undeniably gaining popularity in the show ring. Nothing is as nice as the real thing, but despite your best wishes, some horses will never have a super thick tail.

Whether you need a fake tail depends upon several factors. First, consider where you are showing and what breed of horse you show. If you show primarily local circuits a fake horse tail is not necessary and is more likely to look out of place and obviously false. In some larger breed shows, however, a fake tail is often common or even expected.

False tail rules: In Quarter Horse and Paint Horses shows, a fake horse tail is common (though not required). Rules also permit fake horse tails for Saddlebreds, Appaloosas and Hackney Horses. Fake horse tails are forbidden by breed association rules in Arabian, Morgan, Andalusian, Friesian and Lusitano breed association shows. In open, all-breed shows, a horse is to be judged to their breed standard- so most open shows allow false tails for breeds which allow false tails, and prohibit them for breeds which forbid false horse tail extensions.

It is important to carefully select and fit your fake horse tail. Do not buy a very heavy tail if your horse already has a moderately full tail.

So, how do you put in a false tail? Putting in a fake tail is easy and fairly straight forward. You need to take caution to secure it well so it doesn’t fall out in the show ring (the “walk of shame” as it has been coined in some places). There are a few different ways to attach a false tail but these instructions are how to tie in a fake tail with a loop.

If you choose to braid your horses tail, put the fake tail in after. If you are going unbraided, you can still use your fake tail, just hide it under the existing hair.

1. Divide the tail in half and clip the front half out of the way.

2. From the very tip of the horses tail bone, hold the fake tail up 1-3 inches up the bone, depending on the length of the fake tail.

3. Grab three sections of hair, to span about an inch to two inches wide and start the beginning of a french braid, much like you would a forlock. Braid approximately 4 cross overs.

4. Pull the middle section of the braid through the loop and continue braiding down.

5. Take a piece of the fake tail from the right side and cross it into your french braid. Now repeat with a piece of fake tail from the left side.

6. Continue the braid down past the end of the tail bone and secure with a rubber band. The entire french braid should run about 3-4 inches long.

*For extra security, take two peices of yarn and tie them in half around the tail loop. Braid the yarn in with the hair normally and tie off at the end of your braid.

Faking it!

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Page 58: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

We

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Western Performance/Reining

NSW Reining Horse Associationwww.reiningnsw.com

Tamworth District Western Performance & Appaloosa Clubwww.freewebs.com/tamappy1

New England Quarter Horse Associationwww.freewebs.com/neqha

Hack & B- GradeWestern and All Breeds Show 30th OctoberMoonbi ShowgroundNew England Quarter Horse Associationwww.freewebs.com/neqha

Orange Appaloosa Club Pre State show 4th - 5th OctoberDUBBO Showground(All breeds show)

NSW Appaloosa Championships 6th - 8th OctoberDUBBO Showground

NTWHC weekend 8th - 9th OctoberArmidale Exhibition Centre (event TBC) Peter Simpson 6772 8020 ahwww.ozziewebs.org

Hack & B- GradeWestern and All Breeds Show 27th NovemberMoonbi ShowgroundNew England Quarter Horse Associationwww.freewebs.com/neqha

WESTERN PERFORMANCE October/November 2011

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Page 59: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

Cowboy hats, boots, jeans - big western saddles and they look like cowboys. You may have seen men and women riding around looking like those people you saw in the cowboy western movies - that’s usually where we all started. Following John Wayne, Roy Rogers and Trigger and many other American westerns - it looked pretty cool many years ago. But don’t be fooled ! Western riding is a discipline and requires skill and a lot of hours in the saddle to get it right. Don’t for one minute think that you just mount up, ride one handed, neck rein your horse to change direction and gallop off into the sunset ! I am about to take you for a ride down the western trail, starting from the very beginning. Firstly, we assume you are interested in horses and horse riding - otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this magazine. Secondly, there are different breeds that are mainly used for western style riding. They are the Paint Horse the Appaloosa and the Quarter Horse Many other breeds

do compete in the ‘western’ events, but the three listed above do dominate the western scene. I must point out that I am a Quarter Horse lover through and through, however with the Paint and Appaloosa breeds having a majority of Quarter Horse blood in them, and in doing so, share the lovely temperament of the Quarter Horse, it is purely a personal preference. You may love the stunning colours of the Paint and Appaloosa breeds, or the lovely temperament of the Quarter Horse, but whatever your preference, all three have their own Registry and Rule Book. These Associations are run by a Board of Directors and a committee, and have their own Rules and Regulations which are set to protect the integrity of the breed and to guide those people interested in riding and showing their particular choice of ‘western horse’. For your information, you can Google these Associations :

Paint Horse Association of Australia (PHAA)

Australian Appaloosa Association (AAA)

Australian Quarter Horse Association (AQHA)

If you are interested in trying this riding discipline it would be in your best interest to go to these websites and check out their information. The beauty of the ‘western style’ of riding is that if you choose to compete, the selection of events in which you can participate is wide and varied, which makes the ‘western style’ of riding very attractive to a lot of people. May I also say here, that although throughout this series of articles I will refer to it as ‘western style’ of riding, a very large part of the events available to the rider is ‘English style’ riding such as Dressage and Hack the only difference being that a “Western Breed” horse is usually used. How about we assume you have a nice horse and you would like to give Western riding a try. How do you start ? Well, firstly you don’t need to have a ‘western breed’ horse to go to a western show. Most classes are what we call “open to all breeds” classes with the exception of the led classes which are closed to the different breeds so they compete against their own. For example, a program may have a Led Class for different aged Paints, Appaloosas, Quarter Horses, Miniature Ponies, Arabs and other breeds. The ridden classes are usually open to all breeds with the exception of State and National Shows for the respective breeds. Secondly, almost everyone who rides and shows Western horses are more than happy to give you a helping hand and advise you on what event to try at your first attempt. Also, the local western clubs usually conduct training days and beginner days to help newcomers get started. The two main clubs in Tamworth are the New England Quarter Horse Association and the Tamworth & Regional Western Performance Club. Thirdly, there are so many events to choose from that there will be at least one that you would enjoy competing in. The classes range from Led Classes to Youth Classes to English Classes to Obstacle Classes to Jumping classes and of course a variety of Western Classes. In the next issue I will endeavour to explain each of these events to you, so that when you see a show program, you will be a little

more informed about the events on the program.

Article #1 By Sue FarrellWESTERN?…

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Page 60: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

www.horseparaphernalia.com.au

www.kaaphotography.com.au

On the 4th October 2011, the Australian Quarter Horse Association will send one Youth and one Amateur Team to New Zealand to compete in the Trans Tasman Challenge. The Trans Tasman Challenge is a cooperative effort of the Australian Quarter Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association of New Zealand, which is designed to foster leadership and camaraderie amongst the Australian and New Zealand competitors. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to compete internationally and represent our amazing Country, Australia, whilst gaining valuable knowledge, horsemanship skills and making new friends!

Held every second year, the event is rotated between the two host countries. Each Team consists of five Team members, one Reserve, a Team Co-ordinator and a Coach. Consisting of clinics and a competition, the event is generally staged over 3-6 days, starting with clinics and concluding with a competition. 2009 saw the Aussies do us proud by bringing home the trophy!Team members are required to compete in specific classes at the Challenge, which include, but are not limited to, Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Western Horsemanship, Trail, Western Riding, Reining, Hunter Under Saddle and Hunt Seat Equitation. Horses are kindly provided by the Host Country.

The applicant’s selection process is based on proven show experience, horsemanship skills, presentation skills, leadership qualities, team work, sportsmanship and attitude. The Australian Quarter Horse Association is very proud to have these Teams represent our Association in international competition and we wish them all the best in defending our title!!

This year both our Teams are kindly Sponsored by two local companies, Equivibe and Monogram IT. We thank Rebecca Webb and Sandy McIntosh for their support. Their kind donations help to enable us to provide an opportunity for our members to compete internationally. For some members, this may be their only chance to experience a trip outside of Australia and enjoy a once in a lifetime experience to represent their Country.

Local AQHA member and Trainer, Holly Johnson from Westdale, will be travelling with the Teams to New Zealand as the Youth Coach. Although Holly is only 21 years old, she has a wealth of knowledge and experience. Having competed extensively in the Youth ranks herself and representing Australia at the Youth World Cup two times.

60

TRANS TASMAN CHALLENGE

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Page 61: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

PHOTO COMPETITIONEnd of Year Grand Final

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR PHOTO COMPETION WINNERS!The winner will be judged by you, our readers

GRAND FINAL WINNER will be announced in our DEC/JAN edition along with the winning photo......Prizes up for grabs generously donated by our sponsors.....

HOW TO ENTER:You can email the name of your favourite photo to [email protected] or alternatively you can

go to our facebook page ‘Tamworth & District Local Horse Magazine’ and there will be a photo album createdwith all the photo winners, click like on your favourite photo and the likes will be tallied up along

with the email entrants and the GRAND FINAL WINNER will be announced in our DEC/JAN edition

Prizes - Prizes - Prizes

2.2kg box of PowerStance ...from your local produce

Hay bag & set of Braided Reins

donated by Wynmah Pony Stud

Funny Photo

Cutest PhotoBest Jumping

Best Sporting

Best Refusal Best Costume

Susan Sargent

Cherie HannanSigrid Penrose

Eliza Falkenmire

Jana Romer

Mykenzie Semple

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Page 62: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

LOCAL HORSE

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Simply mail this subscription form with payment to : Tamworth & District Local Horse MagazinePO Box 31, Werris Creek NSW 2341

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Page 63: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 64: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 65: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 66: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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Page 68: Tamworth Local Horse Magazine - October

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