ISSUE 3 • 2022
Rhys Stones
Hot on the trail of the World Cup
Paralympian Sharon Jarvis
The battles and triumphs of a fighting spirit
Decision time When you know your horse is not The One
Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists
Patterns with poles
Why Lucy Williams is passionate about polework
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Editor Amanda McWhinnie amanda@equestrianhub.com.au Advertising Enquiries Amanda Patrick 0432 918 235 apatrick@equestrianhub.com.au The Saddle Hub Sales Enquiries Shae Herwig info@equestrianhub.com.au
Website/Subscriptions www.equestrianhub.com.au Published by Equestrian Hub PO Box 13, Tintenbar NSW 2478 0414 760 067 info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au Follow Equestrian Hub equesthub
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On the Cover Rhys Stones and Othello MVNZ competing at the Sydney Jumping Association Competition Day last November (Image by Giorga Gall, Gallant Media). Magazine Layout Kimberley Bloom Design www.kimberleybloom.com.au kim@kimberleybloom.com.au
THIS PUBLICATION IS PUBLISHED BY EQUESTRIAN HUB. MATERIALS IN THIS PUBLICATION HAVE BEEN CREATED BY A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT ENTITIES AND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE PUBLISHER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR MATERIALS CREATED BY OTHERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE OPINION OF THE PUBLISHER, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES. CONTENTS OF ADVERTISEMENTS ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE ADVERTISERS. ANY USE OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION IS AT THE SOLE RISK OF THE PERSON USING THAT INFORMATION. ©2021 EQUESTRIAN HUB EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY LAW, NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF EQUESTRIAN HUB. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION AND CREDITS ARE CORRECT WHEN GOING TO PRINT BUT MAY CHANGE AFTERWARDS.
2 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 3 • 2022
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Contents 4 7 8 18 23 26 32 38 46 50 56 62 66
Our Contributors From the Horse’s Mouth Spotlight on Rhys Stones Brister’s Brief Ask an Expert: Jenny Merity Delivering Dreams finalists Feature: When love doesn’t find a way Feature: The key to sound nutrition Vet Vibes: Hoof health in the wet Feature: Not if, but when Nutrition: Obesity in the show ring Feature: It’s show time Tacked Up: Getting to grips with girths Pt 2
ISSUE 3 • 2022
70 77 78 82 86 91 92 96 102 104 106 108
Feature: Runway ready European Trends: Getting smart Travel: It’s time to escape Life After Racing: Living the life Feature: Fashion finds for cooler days Saddle Review: PDS Valegro On My Tackbox: To be your best Training Tips: Playing with patterns Young Rider: Brielle Powell Property Central 20 Questions with Rachel Watts Stockists W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 3
O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S
Enya Crockford A rider for most of her life, Enya has been a qualified coach since her teens. She's trained numerous horses up through the eventing levels and is currently working with her sweet but opinionated homebred mare. In this issue she talks to threetime Paralympian Sharon Jarvis about overcoming the many challenges she’s faced throughout her career.
Amanda Mac As editor of Equestrian Hub Magazine, Amanda’s two longstanding passions, one for horses the other for writing, come together perfectly. In this issue she talks to Rhys Stones, as well-known in the show ring as he is in the show jumping arena, about the trials and triumphs associated with building a successful equestrian business and career.
David Nash Director of Nutrition Technology at KER, David is an equine nutrition professional with many years’ experience. He advises on feeding and managing horses across all disciplines, and has been instrumental in quality control, laboratory management and analysis, and pasture research. In this issue he explains why knowing what’s in your pasture is key to sound nutrition.
Jessica Morton Jessica is a dual national New Zealand-Italian freelance journalist, equestrian traveller and writer. Currently based in Tuscany, she’s perfectly positioned to bring us the very latest in European equestrian trends and innovations, from the state-of-the-art NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™ to stylish winter wear designed to keep you cosy no matter where you are.
Jenny Merity An FEI Eventing, Jumping, and National Dressage Steward, Jenny works at Equestrian Australia with National Discipline Committees to schedule FEI events and entries. She has competed up to 1* Eventing and still loves pottering around all the lower levels of competition. Across all the latest rule changes, she brings us up to date in this issue.
Dr Clarissa Brown-Douglas Clarissa has ridden all her life. Her career as an equine nutritionist has taken her around the world, working with horse owners, breeders and trainers to provide nutrition advice for their equine athletes. Now based in Bendigo and a member of the Kentucky Equine Research team, she looks at the problem of equine obesity. 4 | EQUESTRIAN HUB ISSUE 3 • 2022
Charlie Brister Regular columnist Charlie is an all-round horseman and an expert in retraining problem horses. He also coaches riders in the art of cross country, show jumping and dressage. In the second instalment of his two part series on teaching young horses to jump, Charlie introduces the concept of combination fences and related lines.
Dr Doug English A veterinarian and longtime turmeric researcher, Doug completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland in 1974. He’s well-known throughout Australia for his work in the equine industry and is a long-time Equine Veterinarians Australia member. In this issue he discusses those troublesome hoof ailments that frequently occur during wet weather.
O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S
Christine Armishaw Christine is a horse trainer, coach and passionate eventing and jumping rider. A Kiwi girl based in NSW, she teaches others not just how to ride, but also how to understand their horse. In this issue, she looks at a surprisingly common dilemma: what to do when you have a horse you’re no longer happy to ride.
Kathryn Sullivan-Butt Kathryn Sullivan-Butt is The Saddlefitter. An EA and AHRC coach with over 20 years’ experience, she is nationally and internationally trained and accredited with the Society of Master Saddlers, the ASFA, and Equinology. In the final of her fascinating two part series, she explores girths and correct girth point selection for English saddles.
Paul Austin Paul has worn multiple hats - show rider, handler, judge, instructor - throughout his career. His name is synonymous with the highest echelons of showing and he’s renowned for his vast knowledge of the sport and meticulous attention to detail. Involved with many show ring greats, he offers some fascinating insights into the secrets behind his success.
Jess Morrison After completing her Diploma of Professional Pilates Instruction, Jess opened the doors to Performance Pilates in 2009. She has extensive experience in dealing with a range of injuries and pathologies, with a particular focus on the immense benefits of Pilates for equestrians of all levels and disciplines. She shares some of her expertise in this issue.
Suzy Jarratt Suzy has lengthy and varied form as a writer and presenter. She works for several Australian and overseas companies, is the author of three published books, and three years ago won an international award for equestrian journalism. As the Royal Agricultural Society celebrates its 200th birthday, she delves into the rich tradition behind the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Sharon Jarvis Diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma at seven years old and given a poor prognosis, Sharon defied the odds to become one of the most decorated Para-equestrian athletes in Australian history. The first Australian Paraequestrian to compete in three Paralympic Games – Beijing, Rio, and Tokyo – she also competed successfully at the World Equestrian Games.
Chris Kenner Chris is a media and communication specialist with more than 10 years’ experience working on global events and for national sporting organisations. He joined Racing Victoria (RV) in 2019 to support delivery of the programs and initiatives which underpin RV’s three-year Equine Welfare Strategic Plan. In this issue, he introduces their innovative Off the Track Community program.
Lucy Williams Originally from the UK, Lucy brings 20 years of equestrian coaching experience to the table. With a string of qualifications including a BHSII and Ride With Your Mind certification, she regularly trains with other coaches to improve and update her equestrian skills and coaching methods. In this issue, she dives deep into pole patterns. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 5
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
From the Horse’s Mouth
conversation with three-time Paralympian Sharon Jarvis. With immense grit and determination Sharon has overcome incredible obstacles, and is firmly of the belief that when it comes to achieving it’s not a matter of if, but when. Our nutrition feature is on pasture: how do you assess the quality? How do you know that your horse is receiving the
With Fiona Todd
W
nutrients they need? KER’s Director of Nutrition Technology explains.
elcome once again to the
Pilates expert Jess Morrison shares tips
Equestrian Hub Magazine.
every rider should know, and offers up
And what a super issue!
three exercises designed to strengthen and correct rider posture. Meanwhile
We have lots of very exciting changes
registered BHS Instructor Lucy Williams
taking place here at EH Headquarters,
explains the importance of pole work
so make sure you keep an eye on
and how often you should use them as
our website and social pages for
part of your training regime. She also
all the updates. One of the biggest
suggests some pole patterns that will
developments is that from now on, we
get both you and your unicorn thinking!
will be a monthly – yes, a monthly – magazine, still with all the same great
Racing Victoria’s Chris Kenner
content, but with some awesome new
introduces their innovative Off the Track
industry experts adding to the mix, and
Community program, and European
so much more besides. We’re so excited!
correspondent Jessica Morton reports on a technologically advanced halter
In this issue, our Spotlight is on Rhys
before delving into some divine cool
Stones, who competes successfully in
weather fashion ideas.
the jumping arena and show ring, and in partnership with wife Jess, has created
Shane Rose’s super groom Rachel Watts
the renowned J & R Equestrian brand.
answers 20 Questions, and we tempt you with a Margaret River getaway …
In the last appearance of Brister’s Brief
come on, you know you want to!
(now don’t panic, Charlie will still be
fierce. Be sure to watch our socials for
with us but in another form), we see the
information on how you can vote in our
Then there’s Young Rider Brielle Powell
final in his informative two part series on
very popular Readers Choice award.
who has set a hard-to-beat record with
teaching young horses to jump.
four prestigious Sydney Royal Easter Christine Armishaw tackles the difficult
We also have show fever! Suzy Jarratt
Show equestrian awards in a row,
questions that arise when you and your
helps the RAS celebrate its 200th
and let’s not forget our PDS Valegro
horse no longer seem to be a marriage
birthday with a feature on the Sydney
dressage saddle review, plus a sneak
made in heaven, and FEI rule expert
Royal, and show ring guru Paul Austin
peek at another stunning equestrian
Jenny Merity keeps us up to date with
property … we wish!
reveals some of his winning ways. Plus, equine nutritionist Dr Clarissa BrownDouglas tackles the issue of obesity in the show ring and explains why overly
recent rule changes for dressage, eventing and show jump riders. It’s a confusing world!
padded ponies are at risk of succumbing
The Saddlefitter explores English saddle
to a variety of serious ailments.
girths and girth point selection, while
And (drum roll please), we introduce you to our ten Delivering Dreams finalists.
So pour your favourite tipple, relax and enjoy – and don’t forget to watch our socials for more exciting news to come.
resident vet Dr Doug discusses wet weather hoof ailments.
Congratulations to you all for making it
And if it’s inspiration you need, look
this far, because the competition was
no further than Enya Crockford’s W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 7
S P OT L I G H T
A
t no time ever did the young Rhys Stones contemplate making a living from horses.
“It’s really quite Ironic, isn’t it” he laughs. You could say that. In partnership
Set in stone
with wife Jess, Rhys has grown J & R Equestrian into one of the Australian horse industry’s best recognised brands, so ‘ironic’ barely covers it. There are not many major shows where
Everyone has dreams, but some are more willing than others to do what’s needed to achieve them. And Rhys Stones is more than willing, as AMANDA MAC discovers.
you won’t see the big black J & R truck, rarer still for Rhys and Jess to be missing from the winners’ circle. And talk to Rhys even briefly and it becomes obvious that he and Jess are a tight knit team.
S P OT L I G H T
They have both represented Australia internationally and produce and campaign horses of the highest quality. The success they’ve achieved they’ve achieved together through hard work and toughing out the inevitable ups and downs of business. But back to Rhys. He tells me he was too young to remember when he first started to ride. However, with his mother’s love of all things equestrian – she owned show horses and bred Thoroughbreds and Australian Stock Horses, albeit in a relatively minor way – I’m thinking it was probably fairly early. “The first pony I do recall was Darby, a black Welsh Mountain, or perhaps a Shetland,” he muses. “I just have memories of a fat little pony that had a mane that spiked up.” We agree that Darby’s certainly sounding a lot like a Shetland. Growing up in Rutherglen, a small town near the NSW’s border in north-eastern Victoria, meant life was reasonably laid back. Rhys, his older sister and two younger brothers all rode, and, of course, went to Pony Club. Rhys recalls his early days on horseback as a bit of a mixed basket, which included all the local shows: “As a little kid you went into the funkhana ring and the child classes, and from there I graduated to sporting and mounted games, and I did a little bit of eventing in there as well.” Perhaps influenced by his mother’s interest in the breed, by the time he’d reached his early teens Rhys was showing Stock Horses for their owners, as well as competing in Stockman’s
ABOVE: Rhys and Taittinger, Arrowfield Stud Large Hack Champion at the Elizabeth Farm HOTY Show (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography). LEFT: With Tulara Colmar in the World Cup jump off at the 2019 Adelaide Royal (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography). he left school after Year 11, he’d already ruled out becoming a professional equestrian: “The very last thing I wanted to make money out of, or even to try and make money out of was horses. I guess where I came from that was a non-event, there was simply no money in it. So I did an apprenticeship and qualified as a brick layer.”
With the security of a trade behind him,
apprenticeship was with my father. So I
strategist who gives very careful thought
Now, that’s not to say that he didn’t have very definite plans to pursue his love of jumping – he did, and for that reason when his apprenticeship was pretty
to the decisions he makes. By the time
much complete he moved north.
as a pretty serious hobby, supported by
Challenges. Never one to do things by halves, he entered The Man from Snowy River Challenge at Corryong, and succeeded in placing second in the junior division – no small achievement. That was in 2005, which is also around the time when the then 16-year-old Rhys developed a passion for show jumping. Another thing you quickly realise during a conversation with Rhys Stones is that he is, and it seems always has been, a
Rhys based himself at internationally renowned eventer Simon Kale’s Foxground Training Stables two hours south of Sydney. Initially, Rhys had not intended relocating on a permanent basis, it was simply to have the opportunity to immerse himself in his sport. “I was quite lucky in that my had some flexibility around what I did. I’d always wanted to pursue show jumping but not as a career. I wanted to have it
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 9
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S P OT L I G H T
another career in a different industry. So at that point the move to Sydney was for just a couple of months at a time for competitions,” he explains. But it took no time at all for Rhys’ talent to be recognised, and in 2007 he was selected for a junior team going to the International Friendship Championships in South Africa. And that was a turning point: “Once I'd had that experience, it really made me think okay, I want to keep doing this. And then it just progressed from there." he says. Now keener than ever, on his return to Australia Rhys competed at a few shows including the JK Williams, a bit of a highlight on the NSW’s equestrian calendar back in the day. And that’s where he first met Jess Stalling: “I was 17 at the time and not long after that she went over to Europe for a couple of months and I ended up going back home.” Unfortunately, in August 2007 equine influenza struck, bringing equestrian events in Australia to a standstill. It wasn’t until Rhys was eventually able to return to Sydney in 2008 that he and Jess reconnected at the New South Wales Youth Titles in Nowra. And that was pretty much it. “I don't think I really went back home much after that,” he says. Surely not a surprise! When I ask Rhys how his career progressed from that point, he apologises for being a little bit vague on the details, but that has a lot to do with his take on life: “I’m not really one for remembering the past. I’m always looking forward to the future, that’s just what I do.” Nevertheless, he tells me that although he’s never really purchased an established jumper, he and Jess have produced a number of World Cup horses from scratch. “I've won an Australian State Championship, a New South Wales State Futurity title, and numerous World Cup placings. I haven't actually won a
ABOVE: Competing with Othello at Waratah Showjumping in January this year (Image by Simon Scully Photography). There are several names that Rhys rates
her warm up at shows something of
among his better horses. Oaks Altador,
a challenge. Her idiosyncrasies also
who he purchased as a yearling in 2009
caused Rhys to have three major falls,
and broke in the following year, was
not to mention an assortment of broken
Leading Young horse at the Adelaide
bones. Meanwhile Jess, who rode her for
Royal in 2013 and 2015, won three
a win in one of the mare’s first shows, the
Australian Speed Championships, and
Four Year Old Class at the SIEC Sydney
in 2016 was the AQUIS Gold Cup Grand
Summer Classic Young Horse Finals,
Prix Champion.
came home vowing never to ride Rhys’ “crazy” horse ever again!
World Cup yet, that’s still evading me
However, Altador did have her quirks.
unfortunately,” he says. Time will tell
Exceptionally shy of other horses, she
But quirks aside, Altador shone in a
whether that elusiveness lasts.
would do anything to avoid them, making
number of Royal Show Part 2 and Part W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 11
S P OT L I G H T
ABOVE: Jess and Rhys have grown J & R Equestrian into one of Australia’s best recognised equestrian brands (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography). 3 classes, as well as multiple Grand Prix
classes, which, Rhys reckons was a bit of
Imported from New Zealand as a three-
and Mini Prix. “She was a very successful
an achievement for both man and horse.
year-old, Othello was initially with a
horse,” Rhys recalls, “but unfortunately,
“Jess and I produced Tulara. My mother
Young Rider in Central Victoria. But
her career was cut short with a paddock
actually bought him as a weanling, so
when the state went into lockdown, the
accident when she fractured her fetlock
we had him for the whole journey. But
horse was sent to J & R Equestrian to be
as an eight-year-old just after winning
he wasn’t the horse for the Games and
sold. Rhys took him to a couple of small
the AQUIS Gold Cup at Elysian Fields.”
I knew that so I didn’t pursue it. But
events before a good friend came to try
yeah, I was very happy with what we’d
him out. “I was standing there watching
achieved and I eventually sold him last
and I'm thinking ‘this horse is not getting
year. There was also RS Crescendo in
sold. I’m buying it’. And thanks to my
there, another one that I World Cupped
friend for showing me what I don’t want
Also on Rhys’ ‘best of’ list is the then Stones family owned BS On Air, who was second in the 2014 Brisbane Royal World Cup (to date, the closest Rhys
for a while, and I did a couple of World
to get rid of!” he laughs.
has come to ticking that particular box),
Cups with Diamond B Vermont – so I’ve
placed at Gawler in the same year, and
Part of the now seven-year-old Othello’s
had four World Cup horses so far.” Not a
did well in Part 1 and Part 2 classes at a
appeal, Rhys says, is that he’s a very
bad result for someone who doesn’t buy
number of Royal Shows.
rideable horse, and very rideable
established horses.
equates to very saleable: “That was the
Then there’s the 2018 Australian Mini
From a business perspective, selling
main driver behind me buying him, he
Prix Champion Tulara Colmar with whom
Tulara Colmar was absolutely the right
was a good commercial proposition. He
Rhys qualified for Tokyo after picking up
decision, but it did leave Rhys vulnerable
is also a very cool horse, very nice to
a half Minimum Eligibility Requirement
in that he no longer had a Grand Prix
(MER) in the 2019 Adelaide World Cup,
horse. Fortunately, two client horses
and upgrading to a full MER at Sale.
filled the gap for a time but when they
Securing the MER required two clear
eventually returned to their owners, it
Show jumping is not Rhys’ only forte.
rounds in two separate World Cup
prompted Rhys to buy Othello MVNZ.
He’s had his fair share of show ring
12 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
watch and he wants to do his job. I'm quite confident that I’ll be taking him to Grand Prix either this year or next.”
S P OT L I G H T
the smallest member of the J & R team, their delightful daughter Eva, arrived three years ago. A major component of their business lies in the show ring. Jess has built an outstanding career as a successful show rider, winning just about everything there is to win including the much coveted Garryowen. “I’m quite honestly able to say that if it weren’t for Jess, I would not be in the picture with show horses myself,” Rhys tells me, “but I’ve supported and will continue to support Jess in the show ring for as long as needs be. She's great at what she does and it's a great business we've created. We've got fantastic long term clients with great horses, and that’s really the enjoyment of it.” While all of this may sound a little like a fairy tale, don’t be fooled – the going has been far from easy. Ask Rhys what the biggest challenge has been, and he’s emphatic: “It’s the financial struggle. I think the key to J & R Equestrian’s success is diversity. We are cross discipline in everything we do and we work hard.” Prior to where the couple now sit with their business they both had outside jobs, at one stage riding track work. Rhys went back to bricklaying for several years just to make ends meet - because, as he points out, there was no other choice: “If you rely solely on inconsistent business when you're trying to build ABOVE: Winning the Large Show Hunter Hack with Power Play at the 2019 ENSW Southern Cross Spectacular (Image by Lisa Gordon, A Little More Grace Photography).
your name and brand, you'll quickly
successes too. However, you can’t help
and riding different horses, because
But the Stones are both fiercely
but wonder, after the adrenalin fuelled
producing jumping horses to Grand Prix
independent, so relying on others has
sport of jumping, and qualifying for the
is a seven, eight year commitment.”
never been an option - and with no free
Olympics, how easy it is to make the
And then there’s the other side of the
transition back into showing. But ever
if they were to succeed. “We had to do
coin: Rhys and Jess’ now thriving J &
down to earth, he assures me it’s not
what we had to do,” Rhys says. “There
R Equestrian, a business they started
that difficult: "I've been up and down
were many years when I'd be away all
around 10 years ago. After moving
week laying bricks. I'd arrive home late
with horses my whole career. I get a
several times, the couple, who married
on Friday evening, be up at four o'clock
good horse and then it either gets sold
in 2016, eventually bought a property
on Saturday and Sunday mornings to
or breaks down, and usually I've got
at The Oaks, some 80 kilometres south
go to shows, and then have to be in bed
another one on the way up. So it's a
west of Sydney, where they plan to stay
by eight o'clock on Sunday night so I
journey. I feel like I'm just getting older
until they retire. To complete the picture,
could get up at two in the morning to go
lose out on it unless you've got financial support from somebody else.”
rides, complete commitment was crucial
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S P OT L I G H T
And speaking of jumpers, other than Othello, there are 22 horses under four years of age in the pipeline, with 10 on the truck to go jumping. Plenty of World Cup candidates in the making there, you’d imagine. Now with their business well set up, I wonder what their plans are going forward. Initially, Rhys’ response surprises me. But when I think about it, it’s absolutely in line with his pragmatic approach: “Well obviously I’m very business driven, very business focused, and the main thing for me is investments, making hay while the sun shines as they say. To be absolutely honest, the goals I mostly think of are not in the horse industry. They’re around building a real estate portfolio for my family. That’s probably my highest priority.” The couple have an investment property in Wodonga, and The Oaks certainly hasn’t gone backwards in value over the past 18 months. So it looks like things are nicely on track, which, given Rhys’ dream ABOVE: Rhys and Riverton Kanntador, an upcoming J & R youngster sired by Kannan out of Oaks Altador (Image by Simon Scully Photography).
of retiring to the Byron Bay hinterland by the time he’s 40, is a big plus. Other than real estate, Rhys still has his
to work. You have to stick it out and be
Thoroughbreds to Warmbloods. We even
committed to what you want, and make
did a Shire last month. That's my role in
ends meet however you need to.”
the industry at the moment, breaking in
And the pressure certainly didn’t let up
and producing young horses.”
after buying The Oaks. “We've been here
It’s taken a long time to build their
regards the show ring, he has no goals.
now considerable reputation, but
He’s content to continue supporting
now for eight years. Jess has always been predominantly full time, but I was very indecisive about whether we could make a go of it without having to push Jess hard to generate income. I’d support her at any cost and it was getting to a
their perseverance has paid off. From breaking in two horses a month, now it’s up to ten, a dramatic increase by anyone’s standards. With between 35 to
eye on that elusive World Cup, and he’s pretty confident that Othello is the one to take him there, always assuming that the horse isn’t sold beforehand. With
Jess in what she does. “And that's the business focussed side of us,” he says. “We do it because Jess is great at doing it and we love working with the horses. That's the other driver behind showing,
40 horses on their property, and nearly
we just love working with nice horses.
all of them in work, life is hectic and
At the end of the day, the show ring
there’s pressure, lots of pressure, which
goals aren’t personal so much as they
fortunately Rhys and Jess thrive on.
are about setting objectives for each
They usually have three full-time staff
individual horse.”
to help carry the load, but the couple
I ask Rhys whether he’s ever had any
produce and ride all of their clients’
regrets around putting down his brick
business: “I would say my full time job
horses themselves. “We’ve got one
layer’s tools to move in the direction he
is breaking in horses. And that’s across
other girl, Tahli Hendlerand, who rides
has: “No, none whatsoever. I just had to
all disciplines and breeds, from showing
the horses that we own. She works all
wait for the right time.”
and dressage to show jumping and
the jumpers and Jess and I'll give them
Clearly, the benefits of being a strategist
pleasure, and anything from ponies to
a jump once or twice a week.”
are many.
point where I didn't want her to have to ride so many horses,” Rhys explains. So it was back to another stint of bricklaying. But around four years ago, J & R Equestrian had grown to the point where Rhys finally made the decision to down tools and immerse himself in the
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 15
16 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
Chaste Tree Berry
Dandelion Root
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 17
I
n our last issue we got off to a flying start (hopefully not flying off the horse but over jumps!) when we
BRISTER’S BRIEF
talked about a vital stage of a horse’s education: introducing your youngster to
Being progressive Part 2
jumping. Now, this isn’t solely for show jumping horses or eventers. There are lots of benefits to jumping small fences with your dressage or trail riding horse too. So read on.
Recap In the January/February issue we focused on introducing a horse to jumping for the first time using a small jump and guide rails. It is vital to start
In the final part of his teaching young horses to jump series, CHARLIE BRISTER moves on to combination fences and related lines.
small with these exercises and gain confidence before progressing, so let's go over some key points from Part One to jumpstart your memory:
BRISTERS BRIEF
ABOVE: An example of related lines and combination set-up. LEFT: If your youngster over-jumps, it’s likely they’re being careful or spooky rather than showing any real confidence.
Flatwork before jumping: show jumping is just flatwork with a few jumps in the middle. Rider position: weight down into the heel and a balanced upper body.
is greater, let’s say between four and
shortens and the quarters start swinging
ten strides apart (you will very rarely see
you might be asking for the rebalance
three strides between jumps in show
a bit too abruptly. Try riding a smoother
jumping). Therefore how you jump one
half halt. If it’s still occurring go down a
fence will affect the next jump, because
pace and practice rebalancing the trot
they’re related to each other.
while focusing on straightness.
Each horse is different so you will have to
Flying changes
make an assessment as to what you do
These are an essential component of
after jumping a single fence. Quite often
smooth course riding. As you land after
having a related line with a second fence
a fence, the ability to perform a clean
straight ahead after five strides is an easy
flying change can increase your chances
to understand progression (see diagram).
of a clear round. If you haven’t got your
Flatwork
horse doing their changes yet, go back to the May/June 2021 issue for the first
As the difficulty of jumping increases,
Jumping: eyes up and leg on.
of my two part series on flying changes.
the demands on a horse’s flatwork will
In the meantime, change lead through
Departing jumps: focus on straightness.
similarly increase. You need to be able
trot to avoid having an argument with
Progression
to change the pace of the canter not
your horse. The changes will come with
only on straight lines but also in turns.
patient flatwork and consistent practice.
When rebalancing the horse from a
Related lines
Now it’s time to start jumping multiple fences. This could be either a combination or a related line before building up to a course. What is the difference between a combination and a related line? Well, a combination can be either two or three jumps in a line with
bigger canter, do they stay straight through the body? Or, do the quarters fall in or out? This is something to be aware of when doing transitions within the pace.
As with anything concerning horses, there can be a lot of variation between related lines. They can be straight or curved in either direction. Quite often a course will have related lines that cover all of those
either one or two strides between each
The aim is to be able to rebalance the
options: straight, curved left and curved
fence. A related line, on the other hand,
canter while keeping the horse’s neck
right. You will see this in show jumping
is when the distance between the jumps
long and the body straight. If the neck
and definitely in cross country, because W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 19
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BRISTERS BRIEF
the course designers are looking to test
wobble or change speed. Try and make
confidently over that you can raise the
your training. They don't want you to have
small changes so their focus stays on
height. So keep in mind that generally
problems, but they do want the course to
the fence in front of them.
speaking, when you change an exercise
show you possible holes in your training.
Change one thing at a time
or a jump, change only one thing at
Can you jump a left curving line as easily as a right curving line? Ideally your horse
This principle can apply to all areas of riding and training horses. By only
a time. The object is to educate your horse while building their confidence.
is balanced in both directions, but as we
changing one part of the exercise you
all know it is impossible for horses (or
Finishing the exercise well
minimise the chances of your horse
Last issue we talked about ensuring
their riders) to be completely even on
getting confused or over-faced. Think
your departure after the fences remains
both sides.
about how you could make a jump
as straight as possible. This will stop
Introducing combinations
physically and mentally more challenging.
the horse dropping a shoulder and
Start with two jumps set two strides
Then as your horse progresses, increase
anticipating the turn before you ask.
apart. To make it as easy as possible,
the difficulty of only one of those
Also, you want to keep riding the
place the poles on the ground. When
elements at a time. For example, you
horse after you have practiced your
your horse can trot and canter over the
believe it’s now appropriate to increase
combination or related line. This
poles comfortably raise the height so
the height of the combination. At the
means you finish with clear downward
they have to jump. Using guide rails
same time you place a blue tarp under
transitions, or ride the horse onto a
between the two fences (see Part One)
the second fence. This is raising the
circle. Do not let them finish the exercise
can help maintain straightness. Also,
height (physically more difficult) and
in any old way. Make it a quality end to
using cross rails can help keep the
adding a tarp (mentally more challenging).
the exercise and be consistent about it.
horse in the middle of the jump. There is
You are therefore increasing the chances
not a lot of time for adjusting the horse
of having a problem.
Doing this will keep your horse focused and they will stay more balanced
between fences in a combination. The
In this situation, first get your horse
when you are riding longer courses. If
important thing is good preparation
going over small jumps while increasing
they switch off after a few fences you
followed by small adjustments to
the spookiness of the fence, which
will have to do a lot more work to get
maintain the line and tempo as much as
allows them to easily accomplish the
them organised again. The better your
is practical. Don’t have a big fight with
task physically even if they do think
departure, the easier your approach to
your horse in between the fences if they
it’s spooky. Once they are jumping
the next fence.
ABOVE: Although jumps for youngsters are small and simple, keep your eyes up and heels down.
ABOVE: Landing in a light seat after the first jump with eyes on the next fence. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 21
Dedicated to dreaming and improving in equal amounts 22 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
ASK AN EXPERT
Jenny Merity: FEI rule expert
In addition, in January any Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) updates that affect our National Rules are incorporated into the National Sport Rules. And if they relate to the safety and welfare of the horse, updates can also be made to the rules at any time of the year. There have been some key changes to National Sport Rules for 2022, so let’s take a look discipline by discipline:
Dressage and Para-Dressage
An experienced FEI Eventing, Jumping, and National Dressage Steward, JENNY MERITY brings us up to date with the latest rule changes.
N
o matter what your discipline,
For all National Sport Rules, there are
if you are a competitor you
two main updates annually: January
need to be across the latest
when key updates are made; and July when updates are made for any
rule changes. Ignorance of the law has
emergency repair, or for clarification
never worked as an excuse!
and/or refinement of existing rules.
The pathway to becoming an F-Level judge has been streamlined meaning more judges will be available to facilitate competition. Dressage rules have been aligned with the Equestrian Australia (EA) Safe Stallion Policy, ensuring the safety of horses and athletes in warm-up areas, and easy identification of stallions. The two year restriction for downgrading horses and ponies has been removed to allow new combinations to compete at their appropriate level. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 23
ASK AN EXPERT
ABOVE: If you’re riding with a jacket, your stock or tie can be white, off-white, a pale colour, or the same colour as your coat. PREVIOUS PAGE: Low-level eventing grades have been included in the National Eventing Rules. The application process for dressage
exemption to allow them to compete comfortably in dressage.
exemptions for athletes with a disability has been clarified, whether or not they want to compete as a Para-Equestrian, or simply receive an
When riding without a jacket, your stock, tie or ratchatcher should be white, off-white, or a pale colour. If you’re riding with a jacket, your stock or tie can be white, off-white, a pale colour, or the same colour as your coat or a shade of your coat colour. Addtionally, coloured trim is now permitted. For boots, front lace closures are now permitted.
Eventing To ensure that combinations have sufficient experience to move up the grades, it has been recommended that athletes have three qualifying results at EvA80 before moving up to EvA95. ABOVE: Stewards can ask for bandages to be removed and reapplied if they feel they are overly tight.
Low-level evening grades have been included in the National Eventing
24 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
Rules. EvA50 and EvA65 are now incorporated into Annex C, allowing consistency across states with maximum heights, spreads, and distances documented. Note: EvA50 and EvA65 are maximum heights but some states run classes at 45cm and 60cm and this is allowed. There is no need for classes to be run at the maximum height unless the Course Designer or Technical Delegate wishes to do so. It has been recommended that EA Nationally qualified Stewards are appointed to events to help educate our athletes on the rules as they progress through the grades, and hopefully through to FEI level. It will also ensure a fair and level playing field for all.
ASK AN EXPERT
ABOVE: The rule regarding penalties for exceeding the time allowed for Table A competitions has changed.
There is now clarification that athletes wishing to move up to CCN1*-S need three qualifying results as a combination before they can compete at this level.
Although helmet tagging was made
tightened. Stewards can also ask for
mandatory from 1st January 2022,
boots to be removed and reapplied.
due to a number of factors, including
This is for the welfare of the horse,
the cancellation of many events in late 2021, leniency was shown during
which is the keystone of our sport.
Jumping
January and February if athletes
With COVID disrupting competition
Specific National Jumping Rules (which apply in addition to adopted FEI Rules) are easier to review as they have now been shaded in grey.
did not have their helmet tagged.
in 2020 and 2021, allowance has
However, as of 1st March 2022 the
been made for EA Futurity, Stars of
helmet tagging rule now applies
the Future, and Future Stars classes
without exemption.
for 2022. Horses that are nine years
In competition warm up, gymnastic/ training exercises and placing poles are not allowed. They may be used in training on competition grounds elsewhere (preferably supervised by a Steward) but not in competition warm up. The rule regarding penalties for exceeding the time allowed for Table A competitions has changed. There is now one penalty for each and every second, rather than one penalty for every four seconds.
Athletes are reminded that they
from their date of birth at the time of
can only carry one whip at any time
competition are eligible to compete in
anywhere on competition grounds,
these classes.
and only have one pair of spurs (one spur on each boot) at any one time. Pastern bands are now allowed, as is Vet Wrap or similar lightweight bandaging material. Remember,
While rules and regulations can at times seem onerous, they are implemented for very good reason. They are there to safeguard you, your horse, and your
Stewards can, at any time, ask for these
fellow competitors, as well as to ensure
materials to be removed and reapplied
that all riders have the opportunity to
if they feel they may have been over-
compete on a fair and level playing field. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 25
Delivering Dreams Meet our finalists The quality of entries in the final round of Delivering Dreams 2021 was truly inspiring. Thanks to each and every one of you for taking the time to share your hopes and dreams for the future. Although a difficult task, our 10 finalists have been selected and we introduce them on the following pages. We’ll be giving you, our readers, a chance to have your say with the very popular Reader’s Choice award, so watch our socials for details! And a sincere thank you to our wonderful sponsors. Without their generous support, we would not be able to offer this innovative and exciting program. Through Delivering Dreams, my dream of encouraging and supporting riders committed to achieving their best has become a reality – so too can yours!
F E AT U R E
Fresh off the flight from NZ in 2019, Kelly and Burrow get to know one another (Image courtesy Kelly Bridgland).
Kate plans to compete in hand this year with Warmblood filly Cloud Dancing (Image courtesy Kate Buckland).
Kelly Bridgland
Kate Buckland
Kelly is show jumper and EA Intro coach, competing
Kate’s main interests are dressage and showing.
at a 1.30m Young Rider level with her dream horse
After many years away, in 2020 she returned to the
Showtym Burrow.
equestrian world - first taking lessons to re-establish
She began jumping in 2015, and spent over five years
the basics, and then rescuing a mare in dire need
training with Vicki Roycroft as a working student,
of help. In December last year she competed in a
followed by two stints at Showtym Sport Horses in
dressage competition, her first in 16 years, and won
New Zealand, which, she says, was a ground-breaking
both her classes.
experience for both her relationship with her horses
Now with four horses, Kate trains as often as she
and her approach to her sport.
can afford with an FEI dressage rider. She is also
Reaching Young Riders was pivotal for Kelly: “Since
the secretary of Gin Gin & District Pony Club, and is
buying Burrow we have worked our way up to 1.30-1.35m,
upgrading her teaching qualifications. “I’ve taught
something I always thought unattainable. The highlights
across most English disciplines in both the UK and
of our partnership include our first Young Rider win at
Australia but my previous qualifications had long since
Waratah Show Jumping, achieving the first clear round
lapsed,” she says.
in the 2020 Summer Classic Young Rider final, and competing at the 2021 Sydney Royal Easter Show.”
With many previous successes under her belt, including qualifying for several state competitions,
Recognising that she hadn’t yet scratched the surface
Kate is now training two of her horses (both OTT
of her partnership with Burrow, 2021 was a year of
Thoroughbreds) to Preparatory and Preliminary level,
recalibration for Kelly: “I decided I needed to improve
with plans to compete at Medium on her coach’s
my mindset and confidence in order to bring out the
schoolmaster. Her longer term goals include enrolling
best in both myself and my horse.”
for a Level 1 EA Instructor’s certificate, opening the
And with some ambitious long-term goals in mind,
doors of the riding school she’s in the process of
she’s on the lookout for a mentor to help her with the
establishing, competing at FEI level dressage, and from
self-confidence she needs to successfully make her
there developing her skills through to Grand Prix.
way in the sport. “I believe that with consistent training,
Kate discovered her biggest challenge was regaining
both mental and physical, I’ll be able to not only deliver
her confidence after so long out of the saddle, and has
outstanding results in competition, but will feel proud of
been working with a local trainer to help overcome her
and fulfilled by my achievements, something I can then
fears. But she’s thankful that she found the courage to
pass on to my students,” she adds.
chase her dreams: “Returning to riding was against the
For Kelly, riding is about prioritising the wellbeing of
odds – everyone told me I was crazy! I had no money
both horse and rider, and she believes that with the
but I knew it was something I needed to do. Horses are
right support network, she can achieve her dreams.
my happy place.”
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 27
F E AT U R E
Sue and Bamboo Textiles Roulette competing in the 2020 Brigadoon 1CCN-1* (Image by Eric Lloyd Photography).
Kristle and a Little Bit of Blue at the 2021 Gundagai Show (Image by Govern Images).
Sue Cartledge
Kristle Cross
Sue is an eventer who’s currently enjoying an exciting
Now a keen dressage, show jumping and eventing
rise through the star classes. After competing in the lower
rider, Kristle first discovered her passion for horses as
levels for many years, she bought talented Warmblood
a 14-year-old gymnast training at the Australian Institute
gelding Bamboo Textiles Roulette (Ollie) in 2018. The
of Sport. Gymnastics had taken a toll on her body, and
pair have formed a great partnership. “We’ve been very
her physiotherapist suggested learning to ride as a way
successful at 1*, finishing in the top ten in 10 out of 13
of helping to keep her joints mobile. It wasn’t too long
starts. We’re now competing at 2* level,” she says.
before gymnastics was a distant memory!
Other than managing a niggling injury, Sue recognises
After leaving school, Kristle groomed for Grant Hughes
that her mindset and skills are areas that also need
of Canberra’s Emmaville Performance Horses. Her
improvement. “But I have strategies in place,” she
job involved accompanying Grant and his horses to
says. “I have two wonderful riding coaches and have
shows all over Australia, experiencing the sport at its
accessed mindset and sports science coaching to
highest level. “I worked as Grant’s groom for four years,
assist my personal growth. I firmly believe that to have
an amazing, career building and once-in-a-lifetime
professional results I need professional habits, and I
experience. My riding ability and horsemanship skills
work toward that ideal.”
flourished,” she says.
With that in mind, Sue has developed effective horse
A successful competitor herself, Kristle has travelled
management and training protocols, including a daily
to major shows throughout NSW, qualifying for the
routine that combines her own physical and mental
Sydney Royal in 2015 and 2016, winning Amateur of
fitness needs with a sustainable training plan for Ollie.
the Year at the 2015 Forbes Show, and successfully
“Being well organised in this sense allows me to
competing in the 2017 Bega Cup Mini Prix. Her current
achieve in a demanding career outside of the horse
horse, Little Bit of Blue (aka Harry) is a ten-year-old
world,” she adds.
gelding with plenty of natural ability who she intends
Sue is proud of her work ethic and dedication, which
starting at Mini Prix level next show season.
have helped keep her focussed through the inevitable
Now with her own coaching business, Kristle has
ups and downs as she edges ever closer to her dreams.
completed her EFA Introduction and Level 1 Coaching
Her immediate goals include competing successfully with
Qualifications, and has her sights set on an EA Level
Ollie at Perth’s Equestrian in the Park later this year, and
2 qualification. But there are other goals: “I want to
at 2* level in the 2023 Adelaide Australian International
compete at a high level in show jumping and dressage
Horse Trials. Long term, she aims at progressing to 3*
on horses I’ve nurtured and trained myself. I also want
competition and beyond, and representing WA in both
to increase my knowledge of horse management and
the Sydney and Melbourne International Horse Trials,
training, as well as to develop my coaching into a full-
and Australia in the Oceania Challenge.
time business.”
28 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
F E AT U R E
Courtney and Sandhills Swing competing in the EA95cm at Equestriad 2020 (Image by Melissa Goodson, Snapshot Australia).
Merryn and Gizmo, back from injury and with their sights set on success in the show ring (Image courtesy of Merryn Henderson).
Courtney Cusack
Merryn Henderson
A driven and passionate eventer, Courtney dreams of
Top of Merryn’s list is showing. She began competing
making the equestrian community a kinder and more
when her previous horse, a schoolmaster, got her back
encouraging space. “I hope to improve the culture of the
into riding after a 10 year break. “I started at the bottom,
competition scene through supporting other riders to
worked hard and was rewarded by winning the Horse
achieve their goals, by being an ear to listen, and a kind
Riding Club Association of Victoria Level 4 at the 2015
spirit around training and competition days," she says.
Summer Royal. I was graded up that day,” she says.
In working towards that outcome, Courtney has created a network of like-minded riders, arranged clinics, and has an Instagram page sharing inspiring and positive posts. Striving for her dreams with no family support has taught On patrol at Circular Quay. Courtney empathy and compassion. She’s frequently the first to help other riders needing a hand, offering to drive them to competitions or lending out her float.
Unfortunately her beloved schoolmaster became increasingly unsound, and was eventually replaced with Merryn’s “dream horse” Gizmo - then a two-yearold unbroken Riding Pony, now a large Galloway. Merryn, who has lessons with her coach when finances allow, is confident that Gizmo has the talent for a successful showing career. “I attended my first competition with him last March. We finished the
“One of my great achievements was being appointed a
day on a good note and I was excited for our next
Pony Club Captain, where I was able to mentor younger
comp,” she explains. But a devastating setback (a
riders. I was also very privileged to win the best and
torn suspensory ligament acquired in the paddock)
fairest award across our entire Zone,” she says.
intervened, and it wasn’t until late last year that Gizmo
In the saddle, she counts taking out Champion at Silver
was given the all clear.
Hills ODE, placing second at the State Show Jumping
Determined to improve in her chosen discipline,
B Grade Championships, and most recently producing
Merryn is always ready to learn. It was during Gizmo’s
her young horse from 60cm to 1* eventing, as some of
rehabilitation that she became aware of nutrition’s role
her greatest successes.
in recovery, performance and overall health – and she
Of course, there are always more goals to attain and for Courtney that’s competing at Adelaide’s Australian International 3 Day Event, while inspiring other riders along the way.
now recognises the impact a good diet has on topline and general presentation. A passionate equestrian, Merryn has set herself a number of goals, including improving her riding skills and developing her partnership with Gizmo so he
All of which is not bad for a city girl born and bred. “In
works kindly both at home and in the show ring. “The
metro areas there are limited agistment options, so I drive
icing on the cake would be to win a Champion in his
ninety minutes each way four to five times a week to see
Hunter class,” she adds, “and that's a goal I dream
my horse, and to ride her enough to keep her fit,” she says.
about every day.”
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 29
F E AT U R E
Kate and Prince enjoy down time on beautiful Silver Sands Beach (Image by PYT Photography).
Kacey and OTT TB Settle the Score in the Homes & Acreage World Wetlands Jumping at Boneo Park (image by Tazzie Eggins Photography).
Kate Johnson
Kacey Ledger
In 2013, Kate fell from her horse and broke a hip. As
Show jumping enthusiast Kacey has ridden all her
she lay in the dirt waiting for an ambulance, she had
life. As an eight-year-old she joined Pony Club and
a sudden realisation: that this very moment was the
competed in games and horse trials at state level. Now
beginning of her horsemanship career. “A fire was truly
the keen show jumper and her family have started a
lit in my belly,” she recalls.
business retraining and educating performance horses.
A Riding Club devotee, Kate has found her soul mate
This venture has grown considerably since Kacey
in Scarlett Cross Prince – a 16hh OTT Thoroughbred
registered as an Acknowledged Retrainer with Racing
– who has taken her from horse rider to horsewoman.
Victoria. She and her husband now rehome OTT
“We have developed horsemanship skills, riding skills,
Thoroughbreds, as well as breeding racehorses and
life skills and competitive skills. We’ve competed in
performance horses. “What was originally a passion
three shows and placed well in each, with a fourth in On patrol at Circular Quay. our first dressage test. We’re now very ready to get out there and bust some more dance moves for the judges!” she says.
and hobby has transformed into a successful small business,” she says, “with interest from buyers and people seeking to have their horses on our team for further education, training and experience. It’s an
Passionate about ethical horsemanship and
exciting moment in time to see where this journey will
competition, Kate studies the old masters and
take us.”
classical dressage, as well as the latest in science and biomechanics: “Horses and horsemanship are my entire life. If I’m not out with Prince I’m learning from books and other sources. I’m obsessed!”
Aside from working towards establishing an all-weather arena to increase their training capacity, one of Kacey’s main goals is to compete her home bred Warmblood at Grand Prix level. “I also have a stunning five-year-
And she is delighted with Prince’s progress. The
old OTT Thoroughbred mare showing super talent
OTT has become balanced and supple, and is now
over fences. I hope to see her competing at some
working well both in hand and under saddle, in either a
exceptional events in the future,” she adds.
cavesson or a snaffle bridle. Other than being a role model for other riders who have experienced setbacks, Kate’s goal is to grow her skills and knowledge (particularly in the area of equine biomechanics) so she and Prince can continue to develop.
Never afraid of hard work, Kacey gets up early every morning to exercise her horses before going to her 9:00 to 5:00 job four days a week. On Fridays, her day off, she works multiple horses and prepares for shows.
While always putting her horse’s welfare first, she’d
“I also retrain the OTT Thoroughbreds and keep them
eventually like to compete in Advanced level dressage-
until the right home is found. I put 110 per cent effort
giving her the opportunity to show that it’s entirely
into every horse with no shortcuts taken. I take pride in
possible to compete horses in an ethical and kind way.
all I do, and the horse always comes first,” she says.
30 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
F E AT U R E
Lisa and homebred mare Juicy Wiggle at Alexander Park Dressage (Image courtesy Lisa Martin).
Jamie and Kolora Stud Optimus in full flight in the Mini Prix Final at Gatton World Cup (Image by Jedd Johnstone, The J’Taime).
Lisa Martin
Jamie Priestley
Lisa is a dressage rider, Paralympian and combined carriage driver. Riding competitively since childhood, her family took her to events all over Australia – a sacrifice which paid dividends when Lisa represented her country at Prix St Georges and Grand Prix level both at home and internationally.
Jamie has been riding her entire life, but her passion
When she married, she and her husband moved to a small country town. “Because having lessons and competing involved travelling between five to fifteen hours, things became difficult – but made it happen." However, following two severe riding accidents, Lisa’s ankle was restricted to less than 15 per cent movement. Although initially returning to able-bodied competition, she eventually took the opportunity to classify as a Para-equestrian, and was subsequently selected for the Australian Para-equestrian Team for Rio, where she came fourth in all three tests. Unfortunately, two years ago Lisa had another particularly nasty accident, smashing her pelvis and damaging her spine. Although doctors were initially unsure whether or not she would walk again, after two years of rehabilitation she returned to the saddle and was awarded a Bronze medal from Dressage NSW for the percentages she achieved in competitions last year with her homebred mare. As for dreams and goals, well, she has a few! “In two years I want to compete at Grand Prix level dressage, represent Australia again at the Paralympics, and eventually compete as an able bodied athlete at the Olympics. That would make me the first athlete to represent Australia in both Para and able-bodied Grand Prix dressage. But I’ve also started combined carriage driving, so there’re a few goals to kick there as well,” she says.
is for show jumping. Originally from the show ring, she started jumping around ten years ago and certainly hasn’t looked back. Currently the NSW Senior State Show Jumping Champion with her horse Courage, she’s a member of the Martin Collins team for the Australian Show Jumping Teams League. She’s ranked at 15th on the World Cup ladder and has ridden three World Cups, placing seventh and ninth in two of them. Jamie is also runner up to the Australian Young Rider Champion, and has competed all over the world, representing Australia on many occasions: “Two years ago, I placed third in the medium tour at the Berlin Global Champions event on a borrowed horse. I won numerous titles as a Junior and Young Rider, and I’m now competing at the top level in Australia,” she says. Jamie is one of the few Young Riders who produce their own horses from the breaking in stage to elite level, and is currently ranked as one of the top three riders under 25 years of age in Australia. While her goal is to represent Australia internationally and to be selected for the Olympics, Jamie also has a strong sense of community. “I always try to be a good example, and I aim to be a true ambassador for the sport,” she says. “I love my horses, I love competing, and I also love helping younger riders out when they’re having problems with their horses, or life in general. If I can inspire one person to aim higher on their horse, I am a very happy person.”
E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 31
I
f you’ve found yourself wondering whether pursuing a relationship with your current horse is something
F E AT U R E
you should continue, you’re not alone. Many riders at one time or another
When love doesn’t find a way
have questioned if the horse they find themselves with is indeed The One. But to know if the marriage has truly lost its spark, we need to delve deeper. From the perspective of feeling unsafe, nervous or uncertain about riding a particular horse, there are a couple of key questions you need to ask yourself and
It’s quite a predicament. You have a horse you are no longer happy riding. Is it you? Is it them? CHRISTINE ARMISHAW looks at this surprisingly common dilemma.
then, with brutal honesty, answer. To start with, it’s worth considering why you ended up with the horse you have in the first place. Did you actually ride it before you bought it? Did you buy
based on looks or breeding? Was it what its competition history suggested it could go on to do with you? Or were you in a rush to buy and snapped up the first horse that came along? As a coach, I meet people that for all sorts of reasons simply chose the wrong horse. They may have bought sight unseen and never got to try it out before purchase. Sometimes, they buy the horse based on the rider they want to become, when in fact the horse is not suited to the stage they are at right now. In other cases, due to lack of experience, they are captivated by the horse’s beauty or low price and fail to pay enough attention to temperament, arguably the most important attribute of all. While not all these scenarios end badly, things can go wrong and if they do it's the rider’s confidence that takes a beating. The horse acts up, you get nervous, the horse feeds off your nerves and the behaviour gets worse. Before you know it, you don’t really want to get in the saddle so much anymore. These types of situations can be circumvented by enlisting the guidance of a coach or experienced horse person, who can help keep you on track when selecting the right horse in the first place. On the other side of the coin, perhaps it’s less about the horse you’re on and more about a new headspace you’ve
LEFT: When you feel confident with your horse, riding is fun! Christine and Myal High El Capitano go cross country (Image by Mel Goodson, Snapshot Australia). ABOVE: Christine aboard Myal High El Capitano, proof that riding should make you smile (Image by Mel Goodson, Snapshot Australia).
found yourself in. Changes like this
not nasty, and they simply do not sit in
Once you’ve honestly checked those
can occur after a fall or accident, after
the paddock plotting how they will try to
boxes, building up trust, rapport and
make you fall off during your next ride!
understanding is next on the cards.
becoming a parent, or simply even as you get older. As life moves along, we
Spend time focusing on groundwork to
can find ourselves more aware of what
If your horse is being difficult, you need
could go wrong compared to when we
to tick off some boxes before making
were younger. A frisky mount with a bit
rash decisions. Teeth and feet must be
of spice can go from fun to frightening
up to date, get some body work done,
as your perspective shifts with time.
check for ulcers, and pay attention to
to send your horse away to a trainer, and
the feed being consumed. The latter is
start getting back on yourself (ideally
you persevere? Whatever the cause,
a massive contributor to undesirable
with a few lessons) after you’ve been
even when your confidence is through
behaviour, especially when lush green
able to watch your horse in regular work
the floor, there are fortunately a number
grass is abundant. If your horse has
for a while. However, if you’ve done
of things you can try. Firstly, you need
loose, very green bowel movements you
your absolute best and you’re still not
to make sure your horse is comfortable,
can almost guarantee he won’t be acting
loving being in the saddle, then deciding
happy and sane. Horses by nature are
like his normal, sweet self.
to move the horse on is a courageous
So, what to do in these situations? Should
establish a connection again, and find a coach who’ll help you understand your fears and reservations and work through them. Or perhaps you might even prefer
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 33
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Have a coach or an experienced horse person help you choose the right horse (Image by Karina Porter). thing to do: it’s not admitting defeat.
broncing as she landed, she threw me
Ultimately, I rode her just a handful
Like people, horses have different
off. I landed on my feet, but one foot
of times before selling her to another
personalities, and we simply don't all
was slightly turned in and the muffled
experienced rider, with full disclosure.
click with everybody else.
crack was the first indication that I had
Years ago I did a lot of breaking in and
broken my leg. The second indicator
starting. I was working with a particularly
was intense pain when I tried to walk on
tricky mare, the type of horse that would
it! Sitting on the grass wincing, while the
only prolonged the inevitable if I hadn’t
outwardly seem calm while inwardly
horse continued to bronc and buck all
moved her on. It took courage to admit
stressing out, which would eventually
across the paddock, I had no desire to
she wasn’t a horse I wanted to continue
be expressed as a seemingly out-of-
get back on.
to work with, but rather than a ‘I must
nowhere explosion. After weeks of
After my leg was healed I was itching to
conquer this at all costs’ attitude, we
groundwork, mouthing and long-reining,
ride again, and did so as soon as I was
parted ways and were both better for it.
we were a couple of weeks into the
allowed. But I had no real inclination
I continued my equestrian journey with
ridden side of things.
to get back on that mare. I ended up
other horses and have evolved as a
On one particular ride she really didn’t
taking her to another trainer to finish
rider, trainer, and coach.
want to yield to the pressure of the
the starting process with her. I did ride
Many people feel they must keep trying,
right rein. When I pushed the envelope
her while I was at the other trainer’s
and trying, and trying with the view that
further, she went from feeling stubborn
yard – I felt like I had to prove to myself
they’ve given up or failed if they don’t
into full bronc mode! Rearing then
that I could – but I admit I was scared.
continue to slog it out with a horse that’s
34 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
To pursue things with that horse would have done nothing for my confidence and deep down I knew that I would have
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F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Working with a coach is a great way to break through mental barriers (Image by Olivia Salkeld, Snapshot Australia). just not right for them. But this is not how it should be. Horses are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. If you find that riding puts you into a state of tension, a sensitive horse may react to this by expressing behaviours you don’t love. This can make you more
Horses are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. If you find that riding puts you into a state of tension, a sensitive horse may react to this by expressing behaviours you don’t love.
apprehensive and the flow-on effect is that the horse gets worse too. One of the hardest things to do when it comes to horse ownership is admit that it’s time to let go - but in certain situations that’s the best thing for all parties involved. Be truthful with
is the right decision, be up front when
older, or a little smaller. Go for a horse
you rehome it. No horse is perfect, but
that you feel you need to push on a bit,
other riders have to be given the chance
versus one you have to hold back – it
to decide if the horse’s quirks are ones
will do great things for your confidence.
they are willing to put up with. Being straight-up keeps everyone safer.
You don’t need to be a hero and to feel like you need to conquer a particular
yourself: is there pleasure to be gained
When you’re ready to look for your next
individual, there are so many other
from continuing, or are you just feeding
horse remember, temperament trumps
wonderful horses out there. Spend
your ego by refusing to accept that
all, especially when your nerves are a
your saddle time making memories,
maybe this isn’t the perfect match? If you
consideration. Open up your search
laughing and smiling. Go make your
do decide that moving your horse on
parameters, look for something a little
riding fun again. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 37
P
asture often contributes up to 100 per cent of your horse’s daily nutrition, so we should know its
F E AT U R E
nutritional composition before making dietary recommendations and, just as
The key to sound nutrition
important, know whether it’s suitable for your horse. What’s acceptable for a rapidly growing or lactating mare may be completely unsuitable and dangerous for a metabolic affected horse. The quality and quantity of pasture can change dramatically between seasons, areas and plant species, so it’s important
Knowing what’s in your pasture is key for sound nutrition. DAVID NASH, Director of Nutrition Technology at Kentucky Equine Research, explains why.
to be aware of what your pasture is doing.
Where to test? Testing all paddocks is obviously ideal but not always practical. Deciding which
F E AT U R E
paddocks to test can be daunting, but
walk a ‘J’ pattern across the paddock.
a simple method is to assess which
Clip pasture samples into 2-5cm pieces
paddocks are similar in pasture type, soil
and place in a clean bucket.
type and structure, and perhaps stocking density. Grouping these together may give a sufficient representative sample of your paddocks. When sampling, keep away from areas like gateways, stock camps and trees, as generally animals
Step 4: When sampling is completed, mix the samples thoroughly. Place in the labeled sample bag. Continue the process for other paddocks you wish to sample.
defecate around these to give non
Step 5: Try to deliver you samples
representative results.
to the laboratory the same day. If it’s
When to test?
warm, put them in a cooler to reduce
Many large commercial studs have pasture sampling dating back decades with additional information such as fertiliser, herbicide and sowing records. Generally, they will take samples through each season. This gives a true picture of what the pasture is contributing to the horse’s diet throughout the year, allowing for adjustment to the diet if required especially through summer and spring when pasture nutrient concentration is extremely different.
How to take samples
formulated textured feeds, and pellets at around 8-12% moisture. The same may apply for hay and some dry pasture, with haylage at around 20-30%, and fresh pasture with up to 80% moisture. So when comparing various ingredients, it’s important to compare the product at the same moisture level. ‘As fed’ pasture may appear less nutrient dense than a specific grass hay, but once you compare them on a dry matter basis, you’ll see that the pasture is actually quite nutrient rich – giving you a better idea as to its suitabilty for your horse.
fermentation. If you can’t get them to the laboratory within one to two days, freeze them overnight and express post to the laboratory the next day. If this is not possible, especially given mail delivery times during the pandemic, drying the pasture before sending will help maintain its integrity. To do this, weigh the pasture sample first, then place in a microwave safe container and microwave for 3-5 minutes or until dry to the touch. Remove from the microwave and weigh the sample again. Record both these results on the laboratory submission forms as it helps laboratory
Taking samples correctly gives a sound
staff establish the pasture’s moisture
representation of what your horse is
content as it stands in the paddock. The
eating. To take pasture samples you will
dry matter results are important, which
need a clean labeled bag, scissors, a
we’ll explain below.
clean bucket and a ruler.
What to look for
Crude Protein: refers to the hay or pasture’s protein content. Calculated by multiplying the amount of Nitrogen present by 6.25, it’s a rather crude way of assessing protein content, but it does give some idea. Some laboratories offer testing for lysine and other amino acids to help assess the quality of the protein. Higher levels of essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine indicate higher quality. Protein in forage can vary greatly from low single figures in dry cereal straw to a high 20% range for legume hays such as lucerne, or highly productive ryegrass pastures. These results can vary greatly throughout the season, so monitor carefully and make adjustments to the whole diet.
property and paddock name so you
see results in dry matter and ‘as fed’.
know which pasture you’re testing.
‘As fed’ is how pasture is eaten by
Remember, paddocks may be quite
the horse, while dry matter calculates
different in their nutrient content.
nutrients with the moisture taken out. In
Step 2: Determine your horse’s pasture
the same sample, dry matter results will
grazing height by measuring the height
be a lot higher than ‘as fed’. As a rule of
Crude Fat: gives an estimate of the forage’s fat content. Fat analysis results are obtained using near-infrared spectrophotometry (NIR) analysis, or wet chemistry (a process using acid hydrolysis or ether extract techniques). These may give varied results so for consistency, always ask for the same
of the pasture before and after grazing.
thumb, you would expect to see grains,
technique to be used.
Step 1: Label the bag with the date,
On your lab report, you will most likely
For example, if the height of un-grazed areas is 20cm and the height of the
Diagram 1:
grazed areas is 10cm, then the length of the grazed pasture is between 20cm and 10cm. Thus, pasture samples should
Hay
Hay
Pasture
Pasture
As Fed
Dry Matter
As Fed
Dry Matter
be between 10 and 20cm in length as
Moisture %
10.0
–
80.0
–
this is a representative sample of what
Dry Matter %
90.0
–
20.0
–
the horse is consuming.
DE, Mcal/lb
0.79
0.88
0.23
1.15
Step 3: With scissors or pasture shears,
Crude Protein %
8.1
9.0
4.2
21.0
Calcium %
0.45
0.5
0.16
0.8
Phosphorous %
0.2
0.22
0.07
0.35
take 12 to 20 pasture samples at grazing height across the paddock. Some people like to do that randomly, while others
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 39
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Protein in forage can vary from single figures in dry cereal straw to a high 20% range for legume hays. Fibre content in forage is extremely important for all horses, more so for horses with metabolic issues. Key fibre fractions to look for are neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF). NDF, which is more digestible for horses, consists of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin but not pectin, while ADF is comprised of cellulose and lignin. When assessing its suitability, forage with an NDF of between 40-50% and an ADF of 30-35% is considered ideal for performance horses, young stock and broodmares with no metabolic or growth issues. Mature or sedentary horses in little to no work and easy keepers may benefit from forage with slightly higher values.
fibre content that helps maintain gastric
can be digested enzymatically in the
health. Always remember, horses
horse’s small intestine and fructans are
evolved eating low quality roughage in
fermented in the hind gut. You will also
small frequent meals.
commonly see ESC, a subset of WSC,
Forage with NDF levels greater than 65% and ADF levels in excess of 45% will have little nutritional value, but may be an excellent choice for horses with metabolic issues and obesity, as it provides fewer calories but has the
Carbohydrate Levels: are extremely important in assessing forage suitability, and if not carefully attended to can cause major issues for your horse. Several key factors are non-structural
which represents the simple sugar content of the forage. While fructan levels may not appear on the analysis, you can calculate these by subtracting ESC from WSC.
carbohydrates (NSC), starch, water
Sugar levels can vary between pasture
soluble carbohydrates (WSC), ethanol
species, with the highly bred cultivars of
soluble carbohydrates (ESC) and
ryegrass and fescues at the top of the
fructans, which you may be familiar with,
list, cocksfoot and phalaris in the middle,
especially if you have an EMS, obese or
and native grasses such as kangaroo
laminitic horse.
and wallaby at the lower end.
NSCs are a combination of starch
As plants rely of photosynthesis to
and WSCs. Starches are complex
generate and grow, the forage’s sugar
carbohydrates or sugar molecules
content will depend on the amount and
bonded together in long chains. Starch
duration of sunlight exposure. WSC levels
levels in pasture are generally a lot
in pasture can double from winter to
lower than those found in cereals. WSCs
spring, and from 6:00am to 6:00pm. To
are classed as a combination of simple
limit your horse’s sugar intake, late at night
sugars and fructans. Simple sugars
and early mornings are when pasture
40 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 41
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ABOVE: Pasture acceptable for a lactating mare may be completely unsuitable for a metabolically affected horse. sugar levels may be at their lowest. This
can explain how to take pasture samples
For more information on pasture quality
is also dependent on your pasture: if you
and read the results, and can offer
testing, please visit www.ker.com, or
have highly productive pasture even the
potential pasture improvement solutions
talk to your local agronomist, or a
lower levels of pasture sugar content may
for your farm and horses.
Department of Agriculture field officer.
be too high for your horse. Mineral Content: is quite important to
Diagram 2: WSC content of pasture throughout the day (Langland, 2007).
ensure your horse’s total diet is balanced. Many laboratories offer macro and
250
micromineral analysis for minerals such potassium, copper, zinc and manganese. It’s important to specifically request a chemical analysis for minerals, as NIR analysis does not give reliable results. There are many aspects to consider when assessing pasture suitability for your horse. Australian agricultural
WSC Content (g/kg DM)
as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium,
200
150
100
50
departments have well trained staff to assist you, and many rural stores have a trained agronomist on staff. At Kentucky Equine Research we have several technical team members who
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W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 43
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S
quelching through waterlogged paddocks is no one’s idea of fun – and it certainly isn’t conducive to
VET VIBES
Hoof health in the wet
the health of your horse’s hooves. Best avoided if possible, wet weather woes include greasy heal, thrush, seedy toe and abscesses.
Abscesses These commonly occur in wet conditions when the hoof becomes soft and a crack develops, or when the horse gets a stone bruise and bacteria get in and cause infection. This can result in severe
Wet, muddy paddocks can spell trouble for horses’ hooves. Veterinarian DR. DOUG ENGLISH discusses some of the most frequently occurring issues.
lameness, and often the owner thinks the horse has a broken leg because the animal can go from sound to non-weight bearing toe pointing in about a half day.
VET VIBES
shoe when presented with a potential
expansion joint and supports circulation
abscess. A nail puller tool is very handy
by pumping blood back up the leg as
for this, but don’t forget to file off the
the horse walks, while at the same time
clinch holding the nail before pulling.
expelling accumulated debris such as
Greasy heel
manure and mud from the crevices on
Greasy Heel is another disease associated with wet conditions and horses with a long feather and white
either side. I disagree with over-paring a normal frog to make it neater – and smaller! Healthy feet in their correct
skin are particularly susceptible.
environment don’t succumb to thrush.
The ailment starts as an infection of
Thrush infectious agents are non-
Dermatophilus congolensis, an organism
specific, but can include organisms
classified in an entirely separate
like the anerobes Bacteroides and
biological class because it is neither a
Fusobacterium which are common in soil.
fungus nor a bacteria.
Treatment: Pare off dead tissue before
Greasy heal presents as crusty scabs
applying topical plus systemic antibiotics
that are difficult to remove, and a
if needed. Either spray or soak the foot
secondary bacterial infection can occur
with a solution of 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of
resulting in a fluid-filled swelling of the
copper sulphate, 750mls vinegar, and
pasterns. The severity of this condition
250mls of water.
varies considerably.
Clean the hoof daily and brush with
Treatment: Mix 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of
a stiff brush, followed by the copper
copper sulphate with 750mls vinegar
sulphate spray or any of the dozens
and 250mls of water, and apply either as
of proprietary hoof medications. In my
hoof soak or spray. Antibiotic injections
opinion, good farriery is key.
may also be necessary. Removing the scabs by hand can be painful, but
Canker
applying coconut oil, almond oil, raw
Although similar to thrush, canker is more
honey, lanoline, albarol oil, or baby
serious because it causes deformities
oil will help soften them, making them
in the hoof horn tissue, particularly the
easier to remove. Scabs protect the
frog. It is also more destructive and
organism, so add tea tree oil to the base
progressive. The cause is unknown but,
oil (1 part per 100mls of oil) to kill the Treatment: The abscess needs to be picked out and drained, then flushed
organism. Leave the oil on for an hour or so before washing off.
and packed with a drawing ointment
Thrush
such as venous turpentine, magnoplasm,
Thrush is a bacterial infection of the
magnoplasm mixed with honey, or
frog with presents as black, sometimes
ichthammol. Often difficult to pinpoint
bloody fluid with a foul odour. In severe
the exact spot, an abscess can be encouraged to ‘mature’ by soaking in a bucket of warm to hot water and applying
cases, the bacteria can reach the dermis, the sensitive tissue beneath the frog, causing pain and lameness.
a poultice. Sometimes it will break out
Severe cases of thrush need to be
over the top of the hoof at the coronary
differentiated from canker, a disease in
band. While poulticing helps, you should
which abnormal frog tissue increases
also ask your vet for antibiotics.
quite rapidly. In comparison, thrush is a
Abscesses are sometimes associated with a close nail in the shoe. Hoof
degenerative disease in which the horn of the frog deteriorates.
testers are often useful in identifying the
A large healthy frog is necessary for
offending nail and I always remove the
healthy hoof function. It acts as an
ABOVE: Abscesses will sometimes break out over the top of the hoof at the coronary band. LEFT: Waterlogged paddocks are not conducive to the health of your horse’s hooves. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 47
48 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
VET VIBES
Treatment: Canker is not something that can be treated at home. It’s justifies referral to a specialist veterinary hospital, and even then, the possibility of failure should be anticipated.
Keratoma a tumour of the keratin-producing epidermal cells of the inner hoof wall. It is a benign, keratin-containing soft tissue mass that develops between the hoof wall and distal phalanx. The tumour appears as pearls of cornified tissue all
like thrush, was originally thought to be associated with wet and muddy stables. There are some studies suggesting that the presence of bovine papilloma virus in canker-affected horses is not coincidental, but indicative of an active contribution to hoof canker disease. Like equine sarcoid disease, canker is a therapy-resistant disorder characterised by a thickening and discolouration of the tissue, and a marked tendency to recur. There is one hypothesis that canker, essentially an inflammation of the feet and other horny structures, may be caused by an autoimmune reaction and this would tie in with papilloma virus. Luckily, it is not common.
most dense middle layer) the stratum internum (the nonpigmented inner layer which contains the white line and is responsible for attaching to the hoof wall to the bone).
Although uncommon, keratoma is
ABOVE: Greasy heal presents as crusty scabs that are difficult to remove.
the stratum medium (the largest and
One or all hooves can be affected, regardless of age, sex, or breed, both barefoot and shod. Many horses have hoof separation but do not develop WLD. If left unattended debris accumulates and becomes packed,
over the hoof, but most commonly near
resulting in mechanical separation.
the coronary band.
Treatment: Bacteria and fungi can
Clinical signs usually consist of slowly
potentially colonise the area, which then
progressive lameness due to the
needs to be cut out down to solid horn
underlying tissue mass pressuring the
and filled with a medicated hoof putty,
sensitive laminae.
or a paste that can be made up with the
Treatment: Keratoma requires surgical removal.
WLD and Seedy Toe
likes of Stockholm tar, venous turpentine and copper sulphate. Proper support for the damaged hoof and glue on shoes are an option. Topical disinfectants are of no
White line disease (WLD) frustrates
use without resection of the hoof wall.
veterinarians and farriers because of the
Neoplasia
diversity in terms of its cause, diagnosis and treatment. WLD is a keratinolytic process that originates on the solar surface of the hoof (the bearing edge, bars, sole and frog) which causes
Various neoplastic diseases can occur in horses’ feet, and each is a story in itself. The list includes keratoma (as described above), sarcoid (which grows in infected
progressive separation of the hoof wall’s
wounds), osteosarcoma in the bone,
inner zone resulting in lameness. Seedy
squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue
toe can be considered to be a less
sarcoma, melanoma, haemangioma, and
While bacterial infection is an inconsistent finding with hoof canker, it can occur as a secondary infection when the barrier
serious form of WLD.
vascular hamartoma. Tumours on the
function of the foot is impaired.
the stratum externum (thin outer layer)
The hoof wall consists of three layers:
equine foot are rare, and unfortunately, apart from sarcoid and keratoma, have a poor prognosis.
ABOVE: Thrush is a degenerative disease of the frog caused by bacterial infection.
ABOVE: Due to the diversity of causes, diagnosis and treatment, WLD and seedy toe can be frustrating to deal with. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 49
H
aving a go-to philosophy is an advantage, and Sharon Jarvis’s is inspiring: “It’s how
F E AT U R E
you carry yourself through the hard times that will keep you going for the
Not if, but when
good times,” she says. Sharon’s start to riding in country WA was a far cry from the prestige of an international arena. Obsessed with horses, she was forever trying to climb
Three-time Paralympian Sharon Jarvis’s fighting spirit has helped her overcome many challenges throughout her career. She talks to ENYA CROCKFORD about her battles and her triumphs.
up the legs of her older siblings’ ponies so she could ride. Eventually her parents yielded to her nagging and bought her a pony when she was five. “I’m not sure how we survived,” she laughs. “We had
F E AT U R E
Celebrating a Champion Grade Four win with Romanos at the 2020 Boneo Park CDI 3* (Image by Victoria Davies).
causing numerous complications – not
the furthest thing from her mind. “I had
the least of which was that to protect
dreamt of representing Australia, but I
her leg from further fracture, she wasn’t
was just this kid from the country with a
allowed to ride. “My parents sold my
crazy idea.” Not so crazy as it turned out.
pony and tried to get me to do other sports to take my mind off horses. But I never, ever, gave up hope that I would one day ride,” Sharon says. “I asked the doctor at every visit, and eventually he said, ‘You’re so persistent, I just can’t keep saying no’. I’ll forever remember the day I got back on a horse as being one of the happiest of my life.”
It’s how you carry yourself through the hard times that will keep you going for the good times.
Sharon was approached by paraplegic equestrian Mary Ipkendanz, who asked whether she had considered the Paralympics. “It was a shock as I’d never thought of myself as having a disability. But then I was very excited, realising I had an incredible opportunity to compete in the sport I love while representing the country I love.” Sharon describes her decision to chase her dream as “the beginning of the whirlwind.” By the following year she was in the UK with a borrowed horse, competing at the first ever World Para Dressage Championships. Not only did she achieve two top 10 placings, she also found Applewood Odorado, who would become her horse for Beijing. Sharon and ‘Odie’ only had six weeks to get acquainted before the first selection event. “I look back and think I had no
But being back in the saddle came with
idea what I was doing, but we placed
its share of challenges. “I hadn’t realised
fourth, fifth and seventh at Beijing. It still
how fearful I’d be about falling off and
blows my mind what we managed to pull
breaking my leg again. So I decided
off,” she laughs.
that the better I learned to ride, the less chance I had of falling off,” Sharon tells me. “I just wanted to be the best I could be. My coaches taught me to ride as an able bodied person – making the most
At the 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG), they improved on their impressive Beijing result with bronze medals in both the Individual and Freestyle competitions. That accomplishment was made
the wrong horse, the wrong gear, and we used the cattle crate on the back of the farm truck to get to Pony Club. But they were such fun times for us as a family.”
of what I had. It didn’t matter that one
Two years later, Sharon’s life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma, a relatively rare bone cancer. Her leg was to be amputated and she was given only a twenty per cent chance of survival. Fortunately, her doctor conferred with a top specialist in the United States, and her leg, although it lost much of its function, was saved.
horse go as correctly as possible.”
However, weakened by radiotherapy, she broke the same leg a year later,
In 2006 Sharon was competing up to
absolute highs and devastating lows. The
Medium dressage, with the Paralympics
withdrawal from London was crushing,”
leg was weaker than the other and my hips weren’t straight. I learned how to sit as straight as I could and make the
Pony Club also provided invaluable support to Sharon during her teenage years. “School wasn’t a pleasant time for me, but in Pony Club I found my people. I was surrounded by some amazing friends who were so caring and giving, and helped to forge me into the rider and person I am today.”
bittersweet by the sudden passing of Sharon’s father: “He had been my biggest supporter and taught me to work hard and follow my passion. It was a pretty rough road to the Games and it made those bronze medals even more special.” The following years threw plenty of obstacles in Sharon’s path, but she drew on the determination and resilience she’d built earlier in life. Horse injuries forced her to withdraw from contention for both the London Olympics and WEG 2014. “The sport is such a rollercoaster of
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 51
F E AT U R E
Ryan, Sharon’s coach, could ride and train the mare. Sharon managed a fiveminute ride at the end of each training session before going straight into the selection competition. After six trips across the Nullarbor during the selection process, Sharon was relived to make it to Rio. “It was a pretty crazy time but we made it happen,” she says, in what sounds like a major understatement. In 2017 Sharon decided to base herself with Rozzie full time. “The motivation is amazing. Riders are there because they want to be the best they can be, and you have so many performance horses going through every day. I thrive in that environment,” she adds. At the time she was campaigning her stallion Lord Larmarque, owned by Jade and Chris Edwards and Alan Moody, towards Tokyo. Unfortunately he sustained an injury in 2019 and Sharon once again found herself horseless. “After uprooting everything and working such long hours, I felt exhausted. I didn’t have the finances, and just needed to head home,” Sharon recalls. This time it was Rozzie who stepped in and refused to let her give up, suggesting she should put the word out on Facebook to see if anyone could loan her a horse for Tokyo. To Sharon’s ABOVE: Sharon with Rozzie Ryan and Romanos at Ryans Equestrian Centre (Image courtesy Sharon Jarvis).
amazement she was flooded with offers, and found her unicorn in Romanos, a 19-year-old gelding from Queensland.
she tells me, “but my horse had given me
and she was able to purchase Ceasy,
“He’s a great character, he just tried so
everything and I owed it to him to do the
her talented but quirky KWPN mare.
hard,” she enthuses. “We had to get to
right thing by him. You have a cry, you pick yourself up, and you go again.”
But more challenges were to come. Several months after Ceasy’s arrival
know each other, and he had to learn to listen to my whips, but he really stepped up to the plate.”
All equestrians know the financial
Sharon fractured her leg once again and
challenges of staying competitive, but
it refused to heal, meaning she needed
Sharon made history at Tokyo as the
for para-equestrians it’s especially
surgery just six weeks before the first
first Para-equestrian rider to compete
difficult. “We don’t attract owners the
Rio Paralympic selection trial. When her
in three Paralympic Games. She and
same way able bodied riders do, so it’s
doctors told her there was no guarantee
Romanos came 10th in the individual
difficult to keep longevity in our sport,”
she would ever get back on a horse, in her
competition and were part Australian
Sharon explains.
typical determined style she said: “That’s
team that placed 13th.
Fortunately, in 2014 Equestrian Australia
fine. I don’t do ‘if’, I do ‘when’.”
After the stress of campaigning, Sharon
approached her regarding the Winning
Following her surgery, a friend drove
had told herself Tokyo would be
Edge program, a syndicate was created,
Ceasy to New South Wales so Rozzie
her last games, but a less than ideal
52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 53
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F E AT U R E
homecoming changed her mind. Six weeks after returning to Australia she underwent yet more surgery, followed by an emergency surgery ten days later. “I think the universe was reminding me I love my sport, I love representing my country, and not to give up that opportunity just yet. I’d missed out on that Paralympic medal, but we’d now discovered a lot of things that were going on with my body, and I think it will make it easier to ride better,” she says. “At the end of the day I love inspiring people to follow their dreams, and I think I do that best when I sit on a horse.”
ABOVE: With brown unicorn Romanos, Sharon made history in Tokyo as the first Australian Para-equestrian rider to compete in three Paralympic Games (Image by Jon Stroud). LEFT: Lord Larmarque and Sharon in 2019 competing at Alexandra Park Dressage (Image by Emily Stoddart). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55
W
ith the autumn showing season in full swing, it’s hard not to be glamoured
by the glossy coats, perfect plaits, finely
NUTRITION
cut jackets and magnificent garlands, while overlooking the cresty necks,
Obesity in the show ring
lumpy tailheads, and rotund barrels. Yes, some of these highly manicured show ring winners are actually obese, which is worrying for veterinarians, nutritionists and horse owners alike. Horse obesity is a worldwide problem and researchers believe it should be considered the most important welfare challenge affecting equines in western countries. Studies show approximately
With the trend towards overly conditioned show horses and ponies on the rise, equine nutritionist DR CLARISSA BROWN-DOUGLAS explains why bigger is not better.
one-fifth to one-half of horses are categorised as obese. A study of 96 horses conducted by researchers in the UK confirmed the equine obesity epidemic, finding 35 per cent of the
NUTRITION
Researchers have established a correlation between insulin resistance and high cresty neck scores. LEFT: Owners’ perceptions of acceptable body weight are often skewed due to a high prevalence of obese horses and ponies.
research group scored 3.5 out of 5
Laminitis, an inflammatory disease
permanently to one side and possibly
on the body condition score (BCS)
affecting the hooves, is probably the
collapsed. Researchers have established
scale. Certain breeds are more at risk,
most distressing outcome of obesity
a correlation between insulin resistance
including native pony breeds, Morgans,
often resulting in euthanasia. Horses
and horses with cresty neck scores
Iberian, and draft-type horses.
that exhibit these factors (obesity and
of three and above. It goes without
ID) are described as having Equine
saying that cresty necks and show ring
Metabolic Syndrome, or EMS. Horses
champions frequently go hand in hand.
So, what’s wrong with an overly padded pony? For starters, obese horses are at risk of insulin dysregulation (ID). ID refers to various abnormalities in insulin metabolism, including abnormally high
with EMS characteristically show lumpy fat deposits in the neck area (cresty neck) and also around the tailhead and
In addition to metabolic issues, overweight and obese horses are at risk of
behind the shoulder.
osteoarthritis and other injuries associated
(IR). These conditions occur when the
Over the years, researchers have
horse’s body fails to respond to insulin
focussed on cresty necks due to a
Bone and joint problems can be a source
as it normally would, causing increased
correlation between the degree of fat
insulin in the bloodstream. As a result,
deposition, neck thickness, and insulin
more sugar remains in circulation rather
resistance. In a similar way to body
These conditions are serious, and it
than being taken up by cells and used
condition scoring, a cresty neck score
makes for a difficult path for horse
for energy. Over time, the high insulin
(CNS) is assigned to determine the
owners to navigate when many horses
and sugar levels negatively impact the
risk of IR. A score of zero describes a
and ponies with dangerous levels of
horse’s overall health making them at
neck with no crest, and a score of five
adiposity are rewarded in the ring. Horse
significant risk of laminitis.
describes a massive crest that has shifted
owners want the best for their horses
circulating insulin and insulin resistance
with carrying too much body condition. of chronic pain, and limit the use of the horse, even if only ridden recreationally.
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 57
NUTRITION
ABOVE: It’s hard to resist those beautiful eyes while we mix the feeds, but extra scoops and treats can add up. and will often feed too many calories
professional experience and their opinion
About 95 per cent of the judges indicated
thinking they are doing the right thing.
on body condition, making special note of
that having too great or too little fat
We all know how hard it is to resist
consequences they assign when presented
covering compromises an animal’s score
those beautiful eyes watching us while
with thin or obese horses. Respondents
in competition. However, they admitted
we mix the feeds, but the extra scoops
were highly skilled, with almost half having
they were more likely to penalise a horse
and treats can add up. Furthermore,
more than 20 years judging experience. As
or pony if they deemed it too thin rather
owners’ perceptions of acceptable body
part of the survey, they were sent 13 photos
than too fat. In other words, they were
weight are understandably skewed
of horses to categorise as thin, average,
more accepting of extra body weight.
due to a high prevalence of obese
overweight, or obese.
Some judges also suggested they were
horses and ponies. Interestingly, in the horse world, it seems to be more acceptable to comment on underweight horses than bring up the welfare issues of overweight horses, which may mirror sensitivities in human weight perceptions. Obese horses presented at shows are much more common than underweight horses. But it’s not just horse owners who struggle to determine ‘normal’ body condition, according to a recent study, some industry professionals, including show judges, have difficulty recognising adiposity. Researchers at North Carolina State University recently surveyed 211 show hunter judges to determine their 58 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
Obese horses are at risk of a number of ailments including insulin dysregulation and laminitis.
NUTRITION
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60 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
NUTRITION
Studies show approximately one-fifth to one-half of horses are categorised as obese.
help them recognise the benefits of a healthy body condition. The main strategies that owners can adopt to achieve a healthy body condition is to provide a diet and exercise program tailored to each individual horse, as well as understanding the risk factors associated with obesity, so that metabolic health conditions in the horse can be prevented. These include regular weighing (using scales or a weight tape) and body condition scoring, and working with an equine nutritionist to provide a balanced and safe diet. For overweight horses and ponies, limiting pasture intake and feeding a low-calorie, low-sugar (tested below 10 per cent for non-structural carbohydrates [NSC]), high fibre forage, balanced with a well formulated vitamin and mineral supplement plus salt, is a perfect diet for weight control. Other methods for reducing calorie consumption are a grazing muzzle to limit pasture intake, soaking and rinsing hay (especially if it has not been tested for NSC), and using a slow feeder hay
more accepting of extra fat coverage on
cent) did request additional
net. In addition, regular exercise is vital
a pony than on a horse.
educational materials and concrete
to boost the horse’s metabolic rate,
The 13 photos presented to the judges
guidelines for assessing fat coverage
which in turn can support weight control.
included five obese, three overweight,
in horses and ponies.
Equine nutritionists often report that
two average, and three thin horses,
But it’s not all doom and gloom! Many in
as classified by experts. While a
the horse industry are focused on horse
minority of judges correctly identified
owner education so that ballooning
the obese horses, most indicated that
weight is managed appropriately before
these were simply overweight. The majority of judges also identified the three overweight horses as average. In the same vein, average horses were subsequently, and therefore incorrectly, viewed as thin by most judges.
it negatively affects the health and welfare of their steeds. In fact, a recent
diet for rapid weight loss, often to the point of not feeding the horse sufficient roughage for optimal gastrointestinal health, while completely ignoring the benefits of exercise.
program in the UK run by The Horse
So, where to from here? Hopefully
Trust and behaviour change scientists
the chatter surrounding the major
at Liverpool University has rewarded
health risks associated with obese
ideal body condition in show horses with
These data show that not only are
a series of awards presented at horse
judges less able to identify average
shows. The program works with local
- and therefore healthy – horses, but
on-site veterinarians and judges to score
average horses incorrectly viewed as
the horses in the classes, awarding a
thin receive harsher penalties than those
prize to the horse deemed to have the
that are overweight or obese.
horse owners are quick to modify the
horses within the showing industry will gain volume, resulting in changes to the perceived ideal for show horse condition, and with owners rewarded for presenting their horses at a healthier body weight.
healthiest body condition. In addition to
Formulate your horse's diet with
On the upside, at the conclusion of the
the awards, the program aims to provide
Barastoc’s free diet analysis.
survey the majority of judges (64 per
advice to horse owners and riders to
Visit barastochorse.com.au W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61
Today it’s the biggest ticketed event in Australia, and one of the largest in the world. And when it comes to horses,
F E AT U R E
It’s show time
it’s a premier show on the equestrian calendar. To win a ribbon at the Royal is the dream of many a young rider, and for seasoned showies it’s the event they strive to qualify for every year. John Bennett OAM is Vice-President of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW
Rich in tradition, the iconic Sydney Royal Easter Show has attracted generations of visitors and this year commemorates the RAS 200th birthday, writes SUZY JARRATT.
I
(RAS), and chairman of the show’s Horse Committee. He spoke to us about the early days and highlighted some of the events and presentations planned for the various arenas at Homebush Bay:
n the early 1800s, the Sydney
and manufacturers could display their
“The RAS’s very first horse show was in
Royal Easter Show was created to
goods and compete with their livestock.
1823. Horses, mostly Thoroughbreds,
encourage livestock production
had just arrived in the colony and there Over time, other attractions such as
was a prize for the best colonial bred
forum for early European settlers to
wood chopping, boxing tents, show
stallion, which became a much-coveted
share their farming practices. It swiftly
bags, a duck fashion show, and carnival
award. Then the tall ships brought
developed into a venue where growers
rides added to the show’s popularity.
horses with slightly bigger bone better
within the colony, and to provide a
62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
F E AT U R E
suited to put to the plough,” he explains. “Several decades later show organisers introduced different equestrian sports such as high jump, steeplechasing and hunting classes which morphed into the show jumping events we have today.” Olympian Vicki Roycroft has supported these events for many years: “I first jumped in the junior classes when I was 13. Good grief, that was fifty-five years ago! I’ve gone to almost every Royal since then apart from when I was competing overseas. It is, and always has been, Australia’s premier country show.” In 1998, after 116 years at Moore Park, the event moved to new grounds within Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush, and Vicki can’t speak highly enough of these facilities: “They’re spectacular, the
John points out that although it’s the
we decided to hold some fancy dress
footing’s superb and you can ride out
RAS’s 200th birthday, it isn’t their two
events which we haven’t done for quite
on nearby trails. There are many classes
hundredth show. “We missed a few over
a few years.”
to enter, prize money’s always excellent
the years due to droughts, plagues,
and there’s an entertainment six-bar
There’re two fancy dress classes
wars, and of course COVID. There
which is a great crowd pleaser.”
for children: one for the six to under
wasn’t a show in 2020, but in 2021
twelves, and another for the twelve to
This popular event was pioneered by
we were successful in managing the
under fifteens. The first prize will be
John Bennett, who, given his equestrian
pandemic. In order to cope with social
awarded to the fancy dress which best
heritage, is well suited to head up the
distancing requirements we stood down
depicts the show’s 200th birthday. The
Horse Committee. John’s father is Merv
a few events such as team penning and
classes are free to enter, and each has
Bennett OAM, a member of Australia’s
horseball, which remain unscheduled
a $250 prize – but you’ll have to hurry,
1976 Montreal Olympics bronze-winning
for 2022. However, we have brought
entries close on April 13.
eventing team.
back the Shetland in light harness. And
Rodeo, campdrafting and tent pegging have always been crowd favourites, despite some city folk not always understanding the rules. There’s also a mistaken idea that tent pegging has to do with gnarly old bushies, when its origins can be traced back to an old military tactic used during predawn raids on enemy camps. Mounted FACING PAGE: The 2019 Col A V Pope Silver Cup Perpetual Trophy was won by Kaitlin Labahn-Meyland aboard the magnificent Rolex II (Image by Steve Markham). ABOVE: High jump, steeplechasing and hunting classes morphed into today’s show jumping events (Image courtesy of the RAS of NSW). LEFT: Future equestrian talent lined up in the 1939 Juvenile Riders parade (Image courtesy of the RAS of NSW). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 63
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Australian Stock Horses have long been much loved participants at the Sydney Royal (Image by Stephen Mowbray).
soldiers would ride through the camp
These events will be held before the
John assures me that reactions from
and remove tent pegs with the tips of
evening rodeo in the main arena, where,
the stabled horses are very mild. “When
their spears, causing chaos as the tents
John Bennett tells me, the committee
I was ringmaster for all those years, I
collapsed on their sleeping occupants.
has scheduled some wonderful
found that by Day Three the horses
These days many peggers are young,
entertainment: “We have motor bikes,
would be sound asleep in their stalls.”
racing cars, and circus performers. Then
Competing at the Sydney Royal is
there’s some country entertainment
obviously tiring!
keen-eyed horsemen and women atop fast, smart horses.
in the form of the Bandy & Johnson
And unlike the show’s former Moore
Mike Rowland from NSW rides with the
Working Draught Horse Team as they
Light Horses team and commentates
pull wool wagons. This was very popular
on the sport at the Easter Show: “It was
last year when they had a team of nine
brought to Australia by Light Horse
horses, but this year they’re hoping
troops returning from the Boer War. It
to bring 18. Other varieties of animals
grew as an important training tool for
including bullocks and donkeys in
the troops and their mounts, and after
harness will be joining them.”
the First World War it was adopted by
John, who was the show’s ringmaster
the NSW Mounted Police for training
for six years, adds that camels will be
exercises,” he explains. “The current
pulling some vehicles, as well as being
trophy for the Teams Challenge, the
represented in the dairy section, where
Golden Livermore Lance, was first
camel cheese will be on display.
presented in 1969 in honour of Sargent
Fireworks create a glittering finale to
main arena safely. Generally mounted on
Ron Livermore, the then retiring
each night’s entertainment, but despite
Australian Stock Horses, the riders have
commander of the NSW Mounted Police.”
the bangs, cracks, flares and flashes,
always been male – until now. “We’re
64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
Park site, the Homebush firework display is a long way from the animals. “I know many people miss the old showground but it had problems that would have been much too expensive to rectify,” John adds. Changes, updates and improvements are inevitable even when it comes to one of the most traditional aspects of the show – the Green Coats. These mounted stewards ensure horse events run smoothly and that competitors leave the
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: Immaculately turned out horses in harness are a reminder of the Royal Easter Show’s remarkable history (Image by Steve Markham). moving with the times,” John declares,
from people who like the formality of it. It’s
everybody. Those living within 100
“my tip is that before long you’ll be
been the rule for 100 years and there’s no
kilometres of the grounds can have a
seeing a female Green Coat!”
chance of it ever changing.”
day stable and leave after their event
Another tweak to tradition is the Miss
However, that doesn’t stop the show
Showgirl competition. It began in 1962
from going forward in leaps and bounds,
With so many great events and exhibits
when former Hollywood screen idol
and John sees excitement and optimism
to enjoy, who would want to miss the
Jane Russell presented £250, a sash,
everywhere: “There’s increased
RAS 200th anniversary at the 2022 Sydney Royal? Your favourite breed,
and a silver tray to Miss Margaret Mackay, daughter of Horse Committee chairman, Ken Mackay. “This year the competition will officially become The Sydney Royal Young Woman of the Year,” John tells me, “which resonates much better and reflects the importance of the role. It opens up the opportunity
The show will go on, there’s no question about it – the future is bright.
for young women to enter from any occupation that has a link to rural, regional and remote NSW.”
on that day.”
hacks, leading rein, riding, Pony Club, campdrafting and show jumping classes have attracted some of Australia’s finest horses and riders – and John can confidently assure exhibitors and visitors alike that his Committee is determined to ensure that the RAS horse section flourishes: “The show will go on, there’s no question
enthusiasm from horse exhibitors and
about it – the future is bright.”
spectators, in fact from all sections
However, there is one thing that will never
of the show. Horse entries closed in
Interested to know more? Visit
change – the dress code for the main
the middle of December last year and
eastershow.com.au, or for a glimpse
arena: “You cannot be in there without a
we’ve received an enormous response.
back in time rasnsw.com.au/heritage/
hat,” John says. “We get a lot of feedback
The challenge will be to accommodate
virtual-museum/collection W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65
TAC K E D U P
Getting to grips with girths Pt 2 In the final of this series, expert saddle fitter KATHRYN SULLIVAN-BUTT explores girths and correct girth point selection for English saddles.
I
n our previous issue, we discussed
Horse biomechanics – high behind,
the vast array of shaped and anatomical girths that have
exploded onto the equestrian market as riders and their saddle fitters
hip hitch motion for example Conversely saddles can often slip backwards for the following reasons:
endeavour to address some of the
Saddle gullet too wide
common problems of excessive saddle
Rear saddle panels too shallow/ lack
movement, pinching behind the elbow, and girth galls.
of panel support in front Horse anatomy – e.g. high wither,
The most commonly used shaped girth
atrophy in trapezius region, rearward
is often referred to as forward facing.
girth groove with greyhound-like rise
Rearward facing girths are also available
of belly to the rear
but are less common. A quality shaped girth is a good investment for you and your horse if it aids good saddlefit, so
Wrong saddle tree shape for horse Girth point alignment too far forward/
A forward shaped girth on a dressage horse with a forward girth groove, cut to allow more freedom behind the elbow.
excessive pull on point strap
it’s worth discussing them in a little more detail to understand how they work.
Horse and rider biomechanics
forward (A), standard (B), or rearward (C)
Saddles shifting forward can occur for
Whilst all of the above are the most
location (see Image 1).
many reasons which include, but are not
common reasons, they are certainly not
limited to:
The girth’s tendency to drift to the
the only reasons for forward or back
horse’s narrowest circumference
Saddle gullet too narrow
saddle slip. Furthermore, a combination
(the girth groove) will usually happen
of several factors can often obscure the
regardless of how tight the horse is
overriding reason for saddle shift. In
inappropriate panel shape for horse
girthed up – in fact the tighter the
this article our focus is on correct girth
girth, the more likely it is to shift to an
Horse anatomy, such as croup high,
and girth point selection to assist with
area with less pressure (where the
barrel shaped torso, forward girth
saddle stability.
circumference is less) as the horse
groove often accompanied by drop belly
Anatomy and girth groove location
moves. Excessive tightening of the girth
When saddling a horse the girth will
to move and breath freely and may lead
gravitate to the part of the belly where
to saddling issues over time. Given that
the girth groove is situated, usually the
the girth is firmly attached to the saddle,
narrowest area. Horses may have wide
the shift forward or back to the girth
or narrow girth grooves with either a
groove will often pull the saddle with it,
Rear saddle panels too deep/
Wrong saddle tree shape for horse Girth point alignment too far back/ excessive pull on rear girth point Rider pushing the saddle forward with pelvic motion
66 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
is also detrimental to the horse’s ability
leading to the saddle becoming poorly
girth points to drop down vertically so
placed for optimum horse comfort, and
that a straight girth is usually sufficient
sliding out of balance for the rider.
(see Image 2).
Girth point configuration
Many saddles, like the jump saddle in
Fortunately, many horses have a
Image 3, have girthing arrangements
standard girth alignment, allowing the
that allow for the girth to be positioned
forward (A) for horses with a forward girth groove where the saddle might otherwise be pulled forward, or rearward (B) for horses with a girth groove positioned further back. Note also that this jump saddle’s front point strap comes from point of the tree.
Image 1 W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 67
TAC K E D U P
Forward and rearward girths With the recent explosion of shaped girths, many riders have begun using them – sometimes with good reason, and other times because their best friend bought one. Essentially the idea of a shaped girth is to accommodate various girth groove alignments and to help prevent saddles from shifting forward or back. Shaping at the elbow may also relieve pinching behind the elbow where loose skin and girth galls can be an issue. Wide or narrow gauge girths should mirror the width of the girth groove. The girths in Image 5 are from left to right: two short dressage girths – a standard anatomic shape and a forward cut girth; and two long jumping girths, a standard anatomic and a rearward shaped girth. They are an example of how girths are shaped to curve and nestle into the various girth groove alignments. It’s no mistake that I chose a rearward facing girth to illustrate a jump girth and a dressage girth as the forward example, as it has been my experience that often eventing and speedy athletic breeds such as Thoroughbreds are more likely to have a rear girth groove, while show ponies and Warmbloods often have a
Image 2
forward girth groove.
In Image 4, dressage saddle A is buckled
It may be possible to have the girth
However, physics tells us that the pull
up for a horse with a more standard or
points adjusted on a saddle to ensure
force of the girth acts in a straight line
rearward girth groove, while saddle B
they align better with the shape of your
(not around the curves of the girth) so
is buckled for a horse requiring a point
horse’s girth groove. However, this is a
strap to assist with the prevention of
question for your saddle fitter as in many
forward movement (useful for horses with a forward girth groove, those who are mutton shouldered, or for wider shapes such as round pony). Note also that while
cases if the shape of the panel or tree
material that does not buckle, pinch, warp and increase pressure at the front or rear of the girth. Girths with sternum support
is wrong then no amount of adjusting
and two independent buckles that can
the girth point configuration will be
be done up at different heights – such
successful for saddle stability.
as the H girth (Image 6) – may also assist
the two rear girth points can be used in combination (A), using both front points with a forward girth groove will lead to instability and swing at the rear of the saddle. This can be prevented by using the front and rear points (B). Other than where the girth sits, everything else remains the same.
a shaped girth should be made of firm
Image 3
68 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
TAC K E D U P
with variations in the horse’s anatomy. This allows the girth points to hang vertically, providing a more consistent downward force and thus saddle stability. Sternum support is increasingly seen to take pressure from the sides of the girth where forces are often greatest. With so many girths on the market, and each having a slight variation in shape, finding the right one for you and your horse can be very hit and miss. Knowing your horse’s girth groove configuration, elbow room and so on will help you start to shortlist options. However, nothing beats trying the girth first to ensure your horse likes it. If you have a friend raving about their girth ask if you can try it (but clean thoroughly before and after trial to remove potential contaminants), or talk to your saddle fitter and with your next saddle fitting book in for a girth assessment. Most qualified fitters will have a good selection of girths to try or purchase and they will be able to shortlist according
Image 4 I will change it, but a refit is a great time to check the saddle and to see how a girth can make things even better.
on pressure are showing different force
Ultimately the horse has the final say on what they like, and while new studies
as well as the science.
analysis with varying girths, we do need to consider the feedback from our horse
to your horse’s requirements. When fitting, I personally prefer not to change a girth when the rider is purchasing a new saddle, as it introduces another set of variables into the fit making it difficult to assess whether the horse really likes the saddle change, or is it the girth they prefer? If a girth is truly unsuitable then
Image 5
Image 6 W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 69
F E AT U R E
T
he perfect show horse could be described as the Elle MacPherson or Claudia Schiffer
F E AT U R E
of the equine world: beautiful, eye catching, and with that unmistakable
Runway ready
‘wow’ factor. And that’s what show horse champion Paul Austin looks for when he’s searching for his next top ‘model’. “It needs to have a pretty head, a good length of rein, be able to move well and
Renowned for his extensive showing knowledge, Paul Austin’s name is synonymous with the show ring. He talks to CHRISTINE ARMISHAW about some of the secrets behind his success.
cover ground, but it’s got to have a brain as well. A great temperament is number one, but you still need quality to have an amazing show horse,” Paul tells me, and having consistently taken unbroken or green horses right up through the ranks
F E AT U R E
to wins and Champions at Royal Show level, he should know. Paul, who has been riding since he was nine, started out doing everything from Pony Club, games and dressage, to hunting and eventing, before gravitating to showing. As more and more of his clients requested his expertise in that field, the die was cast. In fact, he made the big move from Victoria to Queensland after a client regularly flew him up for coaching lessons, show preparation and horse shopping. “After coming up so often to do all that teaching and coaching, I decided to move. I love it up here. The weather is great, it’s really good for working horses compared to Melbourne’s four seasons in one day,” he says. While he lived in Melbourne Paul trained in dressage with Olympian Mary Hanna, a discipline he believes gives a solid foundation for success in the show ring. “To switch into showing mode, I just add a bit of bling; a browband, the make-up, some patterns, and off we go!” Paul takes a team of his own and his clients’ horses and travels up and down the east coast of Australia attending all the major Royal and Grand National shows in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Adelaide, as well as many others in between. The show horse life has Paul out on the road showing, travelling and teaching for weeks on end before coming home to pick up the next string
ABOVE: Paul with Dunelm Last Dance, twice Grand National winning Lead Rein Pony (Image by SWD Images). LEFT: Lisa and Courtney Bird’s Marquise was difficult at first but won at Royals all the way through to Runner Up at the Grand Nationals (Image by Bridey Lee Photography). Paul likens the approach to a well-oiled
preparing for that show coming up in
With around twenty horses at his property in Tamborine, Paul says he and his team are always busy. A handful of horses are turned out spelling and the other sixteen are in full work and treated like movie stars: “Our horses are out in their own paddocks during the day and brought in at night, which helps rest the paddocks. They’re turned out for breakfast and rug layers are taken off according to temperature. Most horses are worked Monday to Friday, with my two wonderful grooms each tacking up a horse for me to ride, then ungearing, hosing and re-rugging after the horse
eight weeks or so, not just for today.”
has been worked.”
a longer day, which, combined with
of horses and heading off again.
Preparation is a lifestyle Paul explains that to be successful, preparation should begin long before the event if you want to have your horse looking their very best: “Our horses are surveyed every day and assessed for body condition. Do they need more feed? Do they need less? Do they need a different rug on because it’s rubbing? Are they happy in that paddock? Are they eating properly? You’ve got to keep on top of it. You’re looking ahead,
production line: “Each horse has its tail brushed regularly, has hoof oil applied three times per week, and gets washed once a week, as do their cotton rugs,” he tells me, emphasising the point that meticulous routine is essential to successful show preparation. In the evenings the horses are fed dinner and rugged. Each one is treated as an individual, with a feed and rugging regime to suit. “The horses come back into the stable under lights so they have
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 71
F E AT U R E
ABOVE: From a family of Grand National Winners, Dicavalli Royal Gabriella showed her winning style from very early on (Image by Julie Wilson Photography). correct rugging, means their hair stays
As you might expect, looks are very
over the back, and it’s like a broken
shorter and they have better coats. While
important in the show ring. But Paul,
bridge. We work our horses so they gain
inside, there are fans on when it’s warm
who also judges show horses, says the
strength and muscle over the back,” he
because we don’t want them to get so
ratio is about sixty per cent beauty to
explains, “they’re fit from being worked
forty per cent workout and movement.
every week day, plus we mix it up with
The way the horse moves is crucial to
pole work and go out on trail rides too.”
hot that they sweat,” Paul explains. “Our horses only have on one neck rug or hood, otherwise there’s too much weight on the neck, which can rub out the mane.
achieving a great result, and he has a specific training system that encourages his horses to develop into the ideal
Plus there’s a risk that if multiple hoods are used, one of the layers can get pulled over the horse’s eyes.”
Work it Aside from working a multitude of horses, Paul also fits in a daily gym session to keep himself in shape, then keeps going until dusk teaching his many regular clients. When he’s not at home, he regularly coaches throughout
You’ve got to prepare plenty of weeks ahead to have your horse looking schmick. show horse shape. “We work our horses as low as we can while still holding a
Paul tells me that the week before a show, the horse’s workload is lightened to around fifteen minutes a day, so when they arrive at the venue it doesn’t take much to get them settled and ready to perform. “At the big shows like the Royals, there’s a lot of atmosphere. Ferris wheels, motorbikes, there’s everything going on, which is a lot to take in and the horse can get a bit tense. So, if they need a bit of work to settle, it’s better to have them not quite as fit as usual. Otherwise it takes longer to work a horse down before heading into the ring.”
Australia and New Zealand, teaching
contact. You see a lot of horses out
dressage as well as good basic riding
there competing that are very hollow in
Showing tips to live by
techniques such as using the legs and
the back and not engaging and using
With such a wealth of knowledge at his
seat instead of relying on the hands.
their back end. They’re very soft or weak
fingertips, it’s hard to pin down just a few W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 73
EQUESTRIAN HUB | BOUTIQUE
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74 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
F E AT U R E
key points, but Paul is happy to share his best advice for anyone wanting to get into the world of showing and do well. Perhaps most important is to plan and prepare everything you do. You’re not going to get there overnight, you’re on a journey. So give your horse plenty of time and adequately prepare them. “You’ve got to prepare plenty of weeks ahead to have your horse looking schmick,” Paul says. “A lot of people take their horses out when they’re not ready. You need condition, you need top line, you need everything built together to make that picture perfect show horse.” Next point to ponder, don’t over face yourself or your horse. When you get a new horse, allow at least six weeks for you to get to know each other before heading out to a show and, as with any horse, make sure it’s going well in training first. In Paul’s expert opinion: “If you’re not getting the correct lead, or your horse isn’t going well at home, it’s not ready to take out to a show.” And finally, make sure your number one accessory is your horse. “You’ll see the girl who rocks up to the show who’s got the red browband on the horse and she’s carrying a red cane. She’ll have a red tie, along with a red collar on her jacket, be wearing red pumps and she’ll have red gloves on too. And do you know what?” Paul gives a wry chuckle, “the focus is on her, not on her horse, and it should always be on the horse. Go back to basics, follow tradition. A lot of people try to bling it up too much, but remember, less is more.” For more information, visit paulaustinequitation.com.au – and you can take a sneak peek at one of Paul’s lessons over in the Equestrian Hub VIP area. TOP: The magnificent Dicavalli Rory, a multi Royal and National winner, owned and adored by The Lovell Family (Image courtesy Paul Austin Equitation). BOTTOM: Paul bought Pandemonium for a client and produced him all the way through to National Champion Large Hack (Image by Angie Rickard Photography).
Buckskin is the result of the cream gene acting on a bay horse.
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 75
STRIDE
IT RIGHT!
Shannon Kelly & Starwatch R (Tazzie Eggins Photography)
NRG STRIDE Hoof Dressing Nourishes hooves naturally and stays on longer. 76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
For more information visit nrgteam.com.au
EUROPEAN TRENDS
Getting smart There are many situations in which an around-the-clock watch on horses is useful, and now monitoring has never been easier, writes JESSICA MORTON.
S
ABOVE: The NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™
imply put, NIGHTWATCH® is an
send on-demand information via a
How it works
equine distress and wellness
specially created app. Owners can log
The NIGHTWATCH® is a battery powered
monitor built into a breakaway
into their phone at any hour to monitor
device installed on either a breakaway
halter. It offers owners invaluable piece
their horse’s wellbeing through real-time
halter or neck collar (similar to a cribbing
of mind, knowing that their horse’s health
and historical data.
collar), able to monitor vital signs and
and safety is under constant observation.
IoT technology is based on adaptive
Tragedy triggers innovation
learning. It analyses what’s normal
Most horse owners have at some time
for your horse and then recognises
wished for a tool able to alert them when
unusual activity or abnormal biometric
their horses are in trouble, or to give
parameters. It gives feedback on
insight into behaviour patterns in need
important vital signs, such as a horse’s
of correction.
heart and respiratory rate, as well as
NIGHTWATCH® inventor Jeffrey Schab understands that feeling well. In 2013 he lost Snoop, a favourite show horse, overnight to colic. Snoop was only eight years old when he died alone in his box because no one knew he was in distress. Shortly after Snoop’s death, Jeffrey went to work to create a tool that provides
behaviour parameters. The device is non-invasive, uses MEMS motiontracking technology, and doesn’t need to be touching the horse to work. It also includes a GPS locator, useful if the horse is at risk of theft or loss during a natural disaster such as a flood or bushfire.
how often they lie down, or, if they’re
A cellular chip sends this essential
turned out, where they go at night.
data to a device of the owner’s choice,
Ideal for monitoring pregnant mares,
and tailors unique stress indicators
foals, senior, sick or injured horses, and
to each individual horse. When the
chronic conditions such as windsucking
device detects abnormalities in vital
and weaving, the NIGHTWATCH® also
signs or behaviour an alert is sent out,
supplies the data you need to tailor your
which remains active until one of the
horse’s daily training based on their
designated emergency contacts accepts
overnight activity and wellbeing.
the notification.
horse owners with an automated alert when their horses showed signs of distress. The NIGHTWATCH® smart halter™ is the outcome of Jeffrey’s dedication to saving the lives of horses through prompt intervention.
IoT technology This innovative device uses Internet of Things (IoT) technology that works across Wi-Fi and mobile networks to
ABOVE: The device monitors a variety of vital signs and behaviour parameters. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 77
A
fter COVID’s many challenges, could there even be a better time for a bit of self-care and
indulgence? We think not! Which is
T R AV E L
It’s time to escape
when the idea of a dreamy little getaway to Western Australia’s magnificent Margaret River wine country came to mind – and while accommodation options in the region are plentiful, we just loved the look of Cape Lodge. This stunning private country house hotel is a three hour drive, or one hour flight from Perth. It’s centrally located between
You’ve earned it, you deserve it, now it’s time to pack your bags. We’re talking a fabulous Margaret River getaway complete with luxury accommodation and horse treks through unforgettable countryside.
the coastal hubs of Dunsborough and Yallingup, and the delightfully rural Margaret River township. If tranquillity’s your thing, you’ll be pleased to know that Cape Lodge
T R AV E L
accommodates only 44 guests at any
enjoy a guided coastal walk, or relax
least, extensive: country lanes, beaches,
one time. The beautifully appointed
with a massage in either your own room
forests, farm land, the bush and a
rooms, which offer views over the
or the Lodge’s treatment room – the
National Park – take your pick.
property’s acres of lawns, gardens
opportunities to wind-down are many.
and vineyards, are designed for
But really, what getaway is complete
options include a horsemanship session
two adults, with king-size beds,
without horses. Which is why you’ll want
and beginner’s bush ride. The more
luxurious bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and
to take to the trails at Jester’s Flat – and
adventurous have a choice of two-day
complimentary in-room refreshments.
our advice would be book well ahead
trails – we thought the package with
An award-winning restaurant caters
because they do get very busy.
a long table lunch in the paddock at
for leisurely breakfasts and sumptuous
Jesters Flat is a working equestrian
dinners that make the most of the region’s abundant fresh produce and seafood. You can even take your kitchen skills up a notch with an exclusive cooking class from Chef Tony Howell.
farm and boutique vineyard situated approximately 20 minutes’ drive from
If you’re a beginner or complete novice,
St Margaret’s Vineyard had definite appeal – or really spread your wings with a glorious five-day Margaret River Ride.
the town of Margaret River. Their beautiful, happy, healthy herd includes Quarter Horses and Australian Stock
Sample the estate’s delectable wines,
Horses – they’re an ASH stud as well,
take a dip in the pool, tour the region
sometimes with horses for sale - and the
in a Jaguar sedan or Mercedes Viano,
choice of rides and trails is, to say the
LEFT: Tranquil and inviting, a getaway at Cape Lodge will soothe your soul (Image courtesy Cape Lodge). ABOVE: Immerse yourself in Margaret River’s idyllic bush landscape (Image by Stephen Blakeney Photography). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 79
Jesters Flat caters for riders of all abilities and ages from six years up. Their friendly and expert team will match you with your perfect unicorn, and multiday treks include accommodation under the stars in luxury bell tents. Bags packed? Let’s go! To book your unforgettable Margaret River escape visit capelodge.com.au and jestersflat.com.
ABOVE: Morning tea on the Jesters Flat two-day Farmhouse Trek (Image by Stephen Blakeney Photography). RIGHT: Sampling wines from the Cape Lodge vineyards (Image courtesy Cape Lodge). 80 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE SEMI-CONCENTRATE, LOW STARCH, OATS FREE, HIGH FIBRE, OMEGA ENRICHED HEMP BASED HORSE FEED
www.greenvalleynaturals.com.au W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 81
ng aci by R r d e Af t sore Life ly spon Stud ud ield pro r rowf A
going on to other careers after their time on the track, including the stud farm, the equestrian circuit, and non-competitive
LIFE AFTER RACING
pursuits such as trail riding, or as equine therapy horses to assist adults and
Living the life
children in need. A breed that craves purpose, the question still remains as to what becomes of a Thoroughbred once it has fulfilled its primary purpose on the race
Communications Specialist at Racing Victoria, CHRIS KENNER introduces their innovative Off the Track Community program.
S
track, whether it has been successful for its owners and trainer or not. As far back as 1898, renowned racing journalist Herbert Buckley (better known as Ribbledon) penned the article ‘What
ince the importation of pureblood
Thoroughbred’s versatility, speed and
Thoroughbreds from England
smarts has made it not only a terrific
to Australia in the early 19th
racehorse, but also a breed much
becomes of old racehorses?’ for The Australasian newspaper. While he delved into the longevity of some racehorses, Buckley also explored anecdotes of
century, the use of the breed, while
sought after for various other vocations.
varied, has predominantly been for
The majority of Thoroughbreds today
assisting baker runs, joining the circus, or
racing. However, over the decades the
can be found in a racing stable before
heading for the breeding barn.
82 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
retired horses transformed into hunters,
More than 120 years on from Buckley’s
While this work is underway, with further
With 3,900 members registered on
article, understanding and providing
details on the Register’s framework and
the platform, many of whom have 20
the best opportunities and a genuine
operating model anticipated this year,
or more years riding experience, more
Racing Victoria (RV) has already taken
than half have ‘claimed’ an off-the-
steps to create greater visibility for off-
track Thoroughbred. To make a claim,
the-track Thoroughbreds in Victoria. In
members search for their horse in the
purpose for every Thoroughbred following their racing career is still a work in progress. The challenge starts with understanding the Thoroughbred population dynamic. With thousands of horses leaving the racing industry in Australia each year, the visibility and traceability of
May 2021, the organisation introduced the Off The Track Community, an online space for OTT owners, riders looking to buy their first retired racehorse, and OTT enthusiasts wanting to engage with likeminded horse lovers. In what is believed to be a racing
a horse’s movements beyond racing
world first, RV is paving the way to
is paramount to ensuring their well-
better understand the movement of
being. However, the existing data has
retired racehorses across the state
traditionally been unreliable. To address
through this innovative program.
this situation, the National Horse Traceability Working Group was formed in 2020 and was tasked with developing
There are thousands of off-the-track Thoroughbreds enjoying second careers in Victoria, and since the Off The Track Community became active just eight
recommendations on the feasibility of a
months ago, RV has gained greatly
National Horse Traceability Register.
improved traceability of many of them.
online database, and once found, provide RV with branding images and associated details to confirm their ownership. Along with claiming their horse, members can also provide updates on how the horse is progressing in its career after racing. To date, more than 2,000 horses have been claimed, 50 per cent of which are aged 10 or over.
LEFT: Louise Abey with six-yearold mare Mareeza Brown on their Mornington property (Image by Reg Ryan Photography). ABOVE: OTT Another Option with Lucy Kolomanski (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 83
L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G
In addition to being able to claim their horse, Off The Track Community members can also register as a Full Circle emergency contact, offering an important safety net for retired Victorian racehorses found in a poor welfare situation. The Full Circle program enables interested members to nominate as a contact for any registered Thoroughbred in the Off The Track Community. If a situation arises in which the horse is in need of assistance, RV’s Equine Welfare team contact the nominated Full Circle member (and there are now more than 700) to ascertain whether or not they might be able to help. Often this is simply to care for the horse until a new home is found. The incentive-based platform, while focused on improving RV’s ability to track retired racehorses across the state, is also an important tool to support owners and riders of off-the-track Thoroughbreds through educational offerings, webinars, news, and video updates. These benefits, created following feedback from members, have been gradually added to the platform over the past eight months. The community’s exclusive content has proved to be an important tool for many off-the-track owners who wish to access tips and tricks to improve their care, training and general enjoyment of Thoroughbred ownership. With many keen equestrian competitors ABOVE: A very focussed Robert Palm and Honey Steels Gold (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography). Well-supported by Victorian equestrians,
Community has yet been identified as
over 2,000 Off The Track Community
enjoying a secondary career in the circus,
members have identified as owner-riders:
or as working for a baker!
dressage (1,097) followed by showing (1,027) and then eventing (1,005 ) are the most common disciplines.
in the Off The Track Community, a function was recently added to provide access to event calendars and entry information. The function will be upgraded this year so members can register for events through the platform -
Through information provided on the
yet another mechanism to help improve
platform, details for nearly 100 horses
the visibility of retired racehorses.
have been corrected on racing’s
And for owners and trainers looking
The Community is also popular with
National Register, and 145 horses that
for ways to transition their horses out
those who own less competitive horses,
previously had no specified owner
of racing, there’s information on RV
with more than 1,000 members indicating
or address at the point of retirement
supported pathways and programs, as
their interest in pleasure and trail riding.
have now been located – small steps
well as contact details for the RV Equine
However, unlike the 1800s, no horse
to further improve the visibility of
Welfare team, who are happy to offer
claimed through the Off The Track
Thoroughbreds in Victoria.
advice on a horse’s best options.
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L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G
The Off The Track Community platform is also an important resource for Thoroughbred owners to access RV’s statewide network of acknowledged retrainers, who support the retraining and rehoming of horses as they transition into second careers. Additionally, owners can use the platform to register their horse for industry supported initiatives such as the RESET Program. As the community grows, so will the features offered. There’s an everexpanding library of educational tools and owner stories to immerse in, growing engagement functionality, and general support for those wishing to learn more about off-the-track ownership. While the Off The Track Community will never replace the scope of a national traceability register, the online platform is making great strides towards not only increased understanding of the movement of retired racehorses in Victoria, the potential gaps, and where welfare efforts are best directed, but also to expanding and improving the skills and knowledge of the off-the-track community. The response to the Off The Track Community platform has been so positive that it now includes members from other Australian states and territories, and even a couple of overseas owners wishing to claim their horses. To check out the Off The Track Community and claim your Thoroughbred, visit ottcommunity.com.au. If you have any questions about the platform, contact RV’s equine welfare team at offthetrack@racingvictoria.net.au. Life After Racing is proudly sponsored by Arrowfield Stud – visit arrowfield.com.au.
RIGHT: Wilbur enjoying life off the track at Nikki Cook’s Shory Park property (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 85
T
hose cooler evenings can mean only one thing – it’s time to hunker down and prepare for
F E AT U R E
the change of seasons. With the sun rising a little later and setting earlier every
Fashion finds for cooler days
day, adding some warmer pieces to your wardrobe will see you through the coming months in style. So with autumn/ winter and fashion-forward as our mantra, we went looking and absolutely loved what we found, and these beautiful pieces are as on-trend for non-riders as they are for equestrians.
In tweed we trust
It’s officially autumn and cooler days are ahead. Fashionista JESSICA MORTON offers up some stylish European and home grown winter warmers.
No longer the realm of the prim, proper, and thoroughly British, tweed is back. There are so many reasons why the tweed coat is a classic in any gal’s
F E AT U R E
But even if you’re on the hunt for
and detachable hoods make these
something a little more casual, good
designs as fashionable as they are
tailoring is still essential. We found some
effective. If you want to look fabulous
delightfully feminine tweed jackets in a
while staying warm and dry, this is an
more contemporary cut, that offered a
autumn/winter wardrobe staple.
variety of clever design features including
Oilskin alternative
a hidden full-length zip extending into a stand-up collar to keep out winter weather, hard wearing suede trim, and zipped cuffs that can be folded back to reveal a stylish contrasting lining.
Feminine flair
Based on the classic Aussie oilskin, we discovered several coats cleverly refined to offer a more female-friendly fit. With a variety of ingenious features, we thought the option of a zip-in fleece jacket or gilet for additional warmth was a very
The modern riding coat is an update
clever idea. Waterproof and breathable
on a traditional staple that traces back
with a fully adjustable hood and vented tail with gusset, these beautifully cut coats are ideal for a range of leisure activities both in and out of the saddle.
autumn wardrobe. With a cosy feel that spells quality, a good tweed jacket will keep you warm when it’s nippy outside, but is light enough to be comfortable on warmer than usual autumn days. Whether you’re planning outdoor activities, or just want something country to wear to the office, tweed is practical, smart, and looks great with just about everything. So what should you look for when you’re ready to invest? We suggest the first box to tick is fabric. The finest tweeds (generally speaking those from Scotland and Ireland) will not be cheap, but good quality represents style plus serviceability. Which brings us to cut. One of our favourite pieces, released in a signature equestrian collection last year, is an ergonomically tailored tweed riding jacket which offers a flattering silhouette while allowing ease of movement when you ride. FAR LEFT: Equestrian Stockholm Active Performance Jacket
to the heady time when women first embraced elements of male riding attire. However, ladies outerwear had to accommodate bulky skirts and bustles, necessitating a longer, elegantly contoured back panel – and that romantic Edwardian skirted style caught our eye when we came across a
TOP: Holland Cooper Tweed Riding Jacket
rain, wind and chill proof coat featuring a
Middle: Odette Blackcurrant Waterproof Breathable Windproof Coat
inner membrane.
RIGHT: Baleno Kensington Long Waterproof Coat
Flattering pinched waistlines, adjustable
tough cotton canvas outer and insulated
back straps, padded moleskin collars W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 87
F E AT U R E
happily team with literally anything in your wardrobe, to eye-catching pops of colour and pretty designs, you can trust wool to do it with style. And neither should the humble waistcoat be disregarded. Every autumn wardrobe needs a few lightweight transitional pieces that offer insulation without bulk, and waistcoats are a timeless mid-layer. A beautifully tailored waistcoat can be worn buttoned-up under blazers or long coats, or left open as a statement piece over a shirt. From the elegant colour palette of Irish Donnegal tweeds to light but warm fleece, waistcoats are the wardrobe item to easily take you from the saddle to the city and back again.
Form follows function
seats here, thank you), as is stitching
Outer layers are important during winter,
that’s goes the distance and adds flair
but so too are middle layers and the
to the overall look. Team your jeans with
value of quality knitwear should never
a puffer jacket, a bomber jacket, or an
be underestimated. When it comes to
on-trend flannel shirt for a look that’s
cost, natural, renewable wool is a great
casual, comfortable and cosy.
investment that never falls from grace.
We’re also loving the idea of winter
Renowned for its durable qualities,
jodhpurs – well, why not? You should
this fibre is versatile and perfect for all
be shopping for stretchy, comfortable,
seasons. From cosy, slouchy knits that
quality fabric, a nicely tailored cut, robust stitching, plus a fleece or micro fleece lining to keep the chills at bay. Alternatively, you might want to layer up your existing breeches with a pair of thermal underbreeches. Either way, you’ll weather colder days in style. Is there anything worse than a cold head and hands on frosty mornings? Keep your ears under wraps with a toasty
From head to toe Do jeans ever go out of style? Absolutely never! But there are jeans,
warm beanie or headband. Our pick was inspired by classic cable-knit, lined with chenille for added comfort and warmth,
and then there are jeans. You’ll pay more for a pair that are comfortable, durable enough for riding or work, and stylish enough to take you everywhere else – but trust us, it’s a worthwhile
TOP LEFT: Vestrum Aussois Round Neck Jumper BOTTOM LEFT: Georgie Salt & Pepper Donegal Tweed Waistcoat
investment. A sensational fit is super
Middle: Ariat Rebar DuraStretch Riveter Straight Leg Jeans
important (no waistband gaps and saggy
TOP RIGHT: Joules Flannel Shirt
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F E AT U R E
The choices are many, but we liked the idea of comfort coupled with easy to pull on elasticated sides in a stylish mid-calf length boot that promises warmth and protection from the elements. But if you want to infuse modern western pizazz into your look, you can’t go past the traditional pointed toe that looks oh, so good with bootleg jeans. And you now have the options of antique pull up leather, inside zippers, beautifully detailed stitching and piping, and heels that offer as much stability in the stable as they do at a hoedown. Are Chelsea ankle boots still a thing? and available as both a beanie and
Absolutely, and it’s a trend that shows
So, with winter on the way it’s essential
headband. Bliss!
to stay warm and dry while, of course,
Maintaining that subtle line of
still looking fabulous. But play it clever:
communication with your horse while
refresh your wardrobe with classic
avoiding frozen fingers calls for gloves
designs and quality fabrics that will
that go above and beyond. Boxes to
mix, match, dress up, dress down, and,
tick are supple, elastic, and breathable,
perhaps most importantly, will stand the
preferably with a warm micro Bemberg
test of time.
lining that absorbs moisture and wicks it away, reducing clinging and interior dampness.
Finding your feet Finding a pair of wear anywhere boots that look and feel good can be quite the challenge. Luckily, this season’s styles are just as adept at pounding city pavements as they are roaming rural lanes. Whether you choose a pair of western style ankle boots, or chunky lug-soles, these offerings are all super functional and can be teamed with slouchy sweaters, dresses and jeans for an easy put-together look.
no signs of slowing. The timeless Chelsea’s iconic silhouette and elastic side panel sets them apart from the rest. They’re long-lasting, comfortable, and they look great with casual and formal outfits. Make your fashion mark and choose from patent leather detailing, back or side zips, supple leather lining, and anti-shock insoles. Some pay homage to the classic brogue while
TOP LEFT: Roeckl Roeck-Grip Winter Glove BOTTOM LEFT: Tucci Marilyn FP Punched Patent Short Boot
others are plain, sleek and cleverly
MIDDLE: Prohorse Australia Winter Jodhpurs
understated. But no matter what you
TOP RIGHT: Ariat Cable Knit Beanie
choose, you really can’t go wrong with
BOTTOM RIGHT: Lazzari Elasticated Boots with lug sole
the ever-elegant Chelsea.
W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 89
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SADDLE REVIEW
PDS Valegro The PDS Valegro, designed in collaboration with Olympic dressage great Carl Hester, offers rider stability and support, while your horse will appreciate the comfort of AMS® panel technology. Her first was a stock saddle borrowed from someone’s mum, her latest a PDS Valegro purchased through The Saddle Hub – and Kristen Fleet, Manager at Chincogan Ridge Equestrian in Mullumbimby NSW, couldn’t be happier with the new addition to her tack room. Originally from Michigan in the US, Kristen came to Australia in the '60s with her non-horsey family, and settled in Ocean Grove, Victoria, conveniently close to Reinwood, the riding school run by gifted horsewoman Carol Cavanagh. “I was nine when I began having lessons with Carol,” she says, “and I count myself lucky to have had that opportunity.” At twelve, Kristen’s first pony arrived. “I’d ride her with great zeal every day as she
was very fat and I was scared she’d get laminitis. Then one morning she gave birth to a foal!” she laughs. Despite that surprising entrée to horse ownership, her interest in all things equestrian blossomed, particularly when she went to a Western show and discovered Quarter Horses, subsequently buying T Bar Bingo from Winderadeen Stud. “He competed in cutting, reining, halter, pleasure, trail and dressage," Kristen recalls, “and he taught me more about horsemanship than any other horse I’ve had the pleasure of owning.” Now with a strong interest in working equitation and classical dressage, she also confesses to an obsession with baroque
breeds, which are notoriously difficult to fit. “I needed a saddle for my Andalusian, but first contacted The Saddle Hub to sell my Zaldi San George, which had been perfect for my Quarter Horse. The great thing for me about The Saddle Hub is that you have the world’s best saddles at your fingertips. I trialled a number of different saddles which I’d otherwise never had access to – Devoucoux, Equipe, Amerigo – and ended up buying a County Epiphany which fitted us both perfectly,” she explains. Her latest Saddle Hub purchase, the PDS Valegro, is for her four-year-old Clydesdale X Matilda, who Kristen is slowly bringing on for dressage and working equitation. “I needed an extra wide fit with long panels as I have long legs. I tried four saddles and the PDS Valegro was a great match. I also have a Lusitano Sporthorse who’s still being broken and will hopefully be my next working equitation star, and Chincogan Ridge has recently taken on a lovely Lipizzaner gelding who’ll spend the next six months doing lots of in-hand work. He’s destined for the working equitation and dressage arenas as well.” Once both horses are ready, she’ll be back in touch with The Saddle Hub’s manager Shae Herwig, who, Kristen says, is wonderful to deal with. “And I’ll also be seeking Shae’s expertise later this year when I’ve finished establishing my equine farm stay and training facility,” she adds. The Saddle Hub has a wide variety of top quality second-hand saddles, so why wait? Visit equestrianhub.com.au and browse through their fantastic range.
ABOVE: Spooky blue tarps are all in a day’s work for four-year-old Clydesdale X Matilda.
All saddles come with a two-week trial, finance options, and a courier right to your door. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 91
O N M Y TAC K B OX
To be your best Equestrians face no shortage of challenges in the quest to be their best. Professional Pilates instructor JESS MORRISON offers three exercises designed to strengthen and correct rider posture.
A
rider must possess physical prowess, a sharp mind and a keen understanding of
the movement of their horse. No other sport has at its centre a living, autonomous being!
exhibited on the horse, can have a negative impact on its way of going. The rider needs to understand and appreciate how their daily activities impact their body. This provides a great introspective starting point for
This alone significantly increases
their training off the horse. The rider
the degree of difficulty for riders.
also needs to be aware of how their
The movement of the horse is bold
body moves in various planes and
and rhythmic and for it to be at its
ranges of motion. This requires a
best, requires from the rider balance,
strong proprioceptive ability – the rider
suppleness, symmetry, strength, control,
must develop a capacity to perceive
and awareness.
their position in space, an element
Horses, like their human counterparts, generally favour one side over another. Considered training can help address this in the horse, and when it comes to humans, the same is true. We too can train our bodies to be more even, aligned and posturally correct. Humans have, over time, created patterns of movement in their bodies which are far from ideal. We engage in an ongoing and often relentless repetition of particular movement in
of fundamental importance in riding. Directing the rider’s thoughts to these areas will have a profound impact on their ability to dissect their flaws and identify areas that need more work and attention. For some riders, there seems to be
Pilates instructor Jess Morrison and Peakhill ‘Hewie’ Hewitt
somewhat of a reluctance to engage in
All images by Pia Johnson.
off-horse training, but just riding is not sufficient for your body if you want to get the best out of your horse and yourself. It will not equip you with all the tools
of weakness in the rider via specific and relatable exercises produces an
you require to be the best rider you
awareness that is then taken onto
can be. Athletes from all sports cross
the horse, oftentimes delivering
train: swimmers embark on strength
improvements extremely quickly.
and conditioning regimes in the gym,
I have been incredibly fortunate to have
football players do yoga to enhance
witnessed some exceptional changes
their flexibility, and rowers spend hours
in the riders I regularly work with.
on the bike to increase cardiovascular
The movement patterns we establish
fitness, to name just a few.
the studio and the exercises that we
ensure correct and efficient movement,
The benefits of training your body away
undertake, relate clearly and directly
do not. This too requires careful
from your chosen sport have been well
to riding – rounded shoulders which
consideration, as these patterns when
established. The ability to address areas
produce a slumped position in the
our daily lives that can create patterns of habitual muscle recruitment. These need to be addressed. Furthermore, whether through injury, illness, or a predisposition, we can exhibit compensatory muscle recruitment patterns too, whereby a group of muscles which usually act together to
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I combine traditional Pilates exercises with pliability and balance work to help create a rider with heightened body awareness, greater core stability, comprehensive strength, agility, and symmetry.
off the horse is a brilliant way to establish this. Training in the studio also helps to combat the compensatory and habitual muscle recruitment patterns mentioned above. A careful, trained set of eyes on you when executing specific exercises makes the world of difference.
torso can be retrained, lower backs
be taught how to recruit and engage
In my studio, I teach riders about
that arch creating a hollow position can
their stabilising muscles to create a
comprehensive body strengthening. I
be remedied via pelvic and abdominal
more seamless and stable position.
teach them how to better understand
exercises, and riders who move their
It all starts with developing a heightened
the movements of their body. I combine
weight unnecessarily in the saddle can
sense of body awareness and training
traditional Pilates exercises with pliability W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 93
O N M Y TAC K B OX
the tailbone underneath and a lifting of the abdominals up towards the spine, creating a sense of compression through the rider’s centre. This is a wonderful exercise to develop abdominal strength, optimise shoulder girdle position and create a much needed stretching of the hamstrings. You should ensure that your form is held and the moment you feel you are compromising your position, you will need to come out of the exercise.
The Back Extension: In this exercise, the rider lies prone with their feet positioned slightly wider than their hips and with the legs entirely relaxed. The arms are positioned gently by the side of the body. As the rider Image 1: The Pike develops abdominal strength, optimises shoulder girdle position, and stretches the hamstrings.
breathes in, the chest, arms and head are lifted from the mat as the rider concentrates on creating maximum
and balance work to help create a
On the walk out, the rider needs to
rider with heightened body awareness,
create a feeling of lengthening through
greater core stability, comprehensive
the back of the neck. The body becomes
strength, agility, and symmetry. A rider
parallel to the floor without a dropping
that possesses these qualities is far
of the pelvis or an arching of the lower
better placed to deal with the rigours of
back, and there is a distinct feeling
the thoracic extensors is the key in this
riding than one without.
here of the rider trying to push the floor
exercise, and if you are a rider who tends
Below I have outlined three of my
away from them, thereby creating a
to have a rounded shoulder position this
favourite rider exercises (there are so
powerful position through the shoulder
is definitely the exercise for you! You will
many others) to help the rider and, by
girdle. There must be a drawing of
need to do at least 10-12 repetitions.
elongation of their spine (Image 3). Simultaneously, the shoulder blades are brought in towards one another, increasing the space between the shoulders and the ears. Activation of
extension, their horse.
The Pike to Front Support: This exercise commences with mobilisation of the spine as the rider rolls down from an upright position to one where the hands hover above the floor. With the weight distributed through the balls of the feet the result is a lovely hamstring stretch. From there, with the shoulders positioned carefully away from the ears, the rider then walks their hands out to create the pike position (Image 1). A dropping of the heels will accentuate the stretch through the lower legs. After holding this correctly the rider can then continue to walk their hands out until they are positioned directly underneath the shoulders (Image 2).
Image 2: The rider needs to feel a lengthening through the back as they walk out of the Pike.
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O N M Y TAC K B OX
you are expecting, and all the usual considerations have been accounted for – saddle fit, teeth, feet, nutrition, veterinary and bodywork – then it might be time to seriously and carefully assess you, the rider. The impact you have on your horse must never be underestimated. Happy riding!
Performance Pilates is generously offering one lucky reader a $49 a month training Image 3: Creating maximum elongation of the spine in the Back Extension.
zone subscription. Keep an eye on your inbox or on our socials for details.
Adductor Stretch with Rotation:
to accept all that we ask of them. They cannot, however, rise above
Jess holds a Diploma of Professional
A wonderful way to open the hips, in this
the limitations of the rider. They can
Pilates Instruction, and can be found
stretch the rider assumes a wide stance
only be their best, if we are at our
at performance-pilates.com.au. Email
with the legs, with parallel feet and an
best. I often say to riders that if the
jess@performance-pilates.com.au,
upright starting position through the
horse is not performing at the level
or call 0407 090 039.
body. The initial part of the movement sees a roll down through the spine with the hands and arms heading towards the floor. It is important here that weight is directed through the front of the feet,
The impact you have on your horse must never be underestimated.
to challenge balance and maximise the stretch. Once the upper body has lowered down and you have held this position for a minute or so, it is time to add the rotational component to the exercise. Take your right hand and place it on the lower part of your left leg, ensuring that there is no movement of the pelvis in the process. The left arm then reaches up high as you create a pivot of the torso (Image 4). You need to think here that it is the torso pivot which moves the arm rather than the arm moving independently (which will not give you the intended stretch and mobilisation). Hold the rotation for 10 seconds or so and then switch to the other side. Once you have done both sides, slowly roll up through your spine, until you are back where you started. Horses are remarkable creatures who are highly amenable and mostly willing
Image 4: The Adductor Stretch with Rotation is a great way to open the hips. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 95
L
ucy Williams has trained and worked with many coaches at prestigious equestrian centres
TRAINING TIPS
throughout the UK. Notably, she coached for Christopher Bartle FBHS
Playing with patterns
(former trainer for the German National Eventing Team and current British Eventing Team coach) at Yorkshire Riding Centre, and for Olympian Jane Bartle-Wilson. Before moving to Australia, Lucy
A registered British Horse Society Instructor, Lucy Williams holds an IGEQ Level 3 Equestrian Coach Passport, is an accredited Level 2 Ride With Your Mind coach, and is passionate about training with poles.
predominantly evented while dabbling in other disciplines. Now, she’s enjoying training and competing her two young horses in dressage, with a little eventing on the side. Because of the myriad
TRAINING TIPS
benefits it offers, regular pole work stars
training. To fit everything in, I do pole work
and leg,” Lucy explains. “Pole work is
in her own training program and in her
or patterns once a week, but might also
absolutely fantastic at showing riders
popular pole pattern clinics.
utilise poles in a couple of other sessions.”
exactly what their issues might be in their
Why poles?
To build the horse’s confidence, Lucy
For her own horses and for participants
recommends introducing these types
in her clinics, Lucy’s main objective is to
of exercises bit by bit. “Most of us don’t
of rhythm or tempo, the horse’s inability
have fun! “It’s interesting to incorporate
have a pole crew and don’t want to get
to adjust stride length within their tempo,
poles to improve suppleness, balance,
on and off, so I tend to lay out a few
loss of straightness, or if they as the rider
joint function, core engagement, dexterity,
smaller exercises that can be mixed up,
lose their balance in any direction.” She
coordination, adjustability, strengthening
practicing riding lines from one small
believes that as riders, we need to be
of the back and topline,” she says.
pattern to another. For example, riding
introspective, and be prepared to analyse
some arrowheads to check straightness,
ourselves and improve.
then to a curved line to check stride
The best horses in pole pattern sessions
length and turnability, then some raised
have great rhythm, are straight, and are
So how often should you use poles as part of your training regime? “I am a huge fan of cross training, meaning that even for the pure dressage horse
poles for suspension.”
your training isn’t just in the arena. It’s
Rider perks
so important to include other things.
The horse is not the only one to benefit
This helps keep your horse happy and
from pole exercises. “For the rider, it’s
interested in their work and gets them
about being a well-balanced framework
using their whole body,” Lucy explains.
above the horse and allowing them to
“My horses do trail rides, jumping, pole
find their own balance, without holding
work and hill work, as well as dressage
them together with too much hand
dressage training, cross country riding or show jumping. Whether it’s inconsistency
on the rider’s aid, so they’re quick to respond to a ‘go’ cue, a ‘woah’ cue or LEFT: Steph Hann and 4* eventer True Celebre (Wally) negotiate Lucy’s ‘X’ pattern pole exercise (All images by Hilary Hann of Atkins Photography). ABOVE: Steph and Golden Delight BHI (Dorothee) canter poles on a curved line. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 97
TRAINING TIPS
To make life easier when she’s riding by herself, Lucy tends to set up nine foot exercises, as they are divisible by 3 and 4.5 feet. “That way you can fit three strides of walk, two strides of trot and one stride of canter in a nine foot distance,” Lucy explains. “Obviously, horses can vary significantly from that pattern, but it’s a good baseline. You might have to make it slightly longer for the bigger horse and shorter for the smaller horse, keeping in mind that within reason, you’re generally needing to encourage the long striding horse to sometimes take shorter steps and vice versa.” Lucy recommends practicing walking pole distances. “Mark out a three foot distance and get familiar with how big A great exercise for dressage horses, raise alternate ends of the trot poles (above), before raising both ends as the horse gains confidence (below).
or small you have to stride out to make it. My poles are ten feet long, so I know three even, big strides of mine make a nine foot distance with one foot left at the end.”
‘Go to’ favourites One of Lucy’s favourite exercises is poles on a curved line, especially when she doesn’t want to get on and off the horse! “I use this as my regular ‘go to’. I set the midline of each pole on the curve to nine feet, with the inside of the midline at approximately seven feet, and the outside at eleven feet. Then, through a session I can adjust stride length to poles on a curve, on both reins, in all paces. She says this is an easy, work everything exercise: “Practice turning, shorter steps and longer steps. I always find poles on a curved line help to work the evenness ‘turn’ cue. “Having a well-balanced rider
helpful for making them trust the horse
allows the aids to have clarity and not
and feel change underneath them, whilst
be confused,” Lucy says. “It’s when
tuning into their own body.”
these basic foundations aren’t set in
The set up
place that challenges emerge, like
of your bend on both reins, as you very easily feel drift and loss of line. When the horse keeps his body aligned with the line you want to ride over the curve, you will have core engagement and
In a group pole session, Lucy often uses
correct back lift.”
up to 15 poles in a line, incorporating
Specifically for dressage horses, Lucy
tunnels, arrow heads, and plain straight
loves to use raised poles. “I often lift up
Lucy’s experience as a coach has
poles, all of which are added gradually.
alternate ends of trot poles, set at one
taught her that over analysis really does
At home, Lucy suggests you follow her
or two strides [4.5 feet or 9 feet] apart.
cause paralysis, with some riders simply
pole placing guide (based on the average
Then I raise both ends as they get more
overthinking things: “I encourage them
sized horse) of one walk stride equal to
confident. To raise poles, I prefer to set
to soften their eyes and ride with more
3 feet, one trot stride to 4.5 feet, and a
them on objects that overturn easily, or
peripheral vision. This can be hugely
canter stride equalling 9 to 12 feet.
allow the poles to fall relatively easily,
horses rushing, not holding a constant tempo, or lacking straightness.”
98 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
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100 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
TRAINING TIPS
rather than using cavaletti. Raised poles help to slow the tempo, creating airtime and suspension, while teaching the dressage horse how to sit and push.” For eventing, the horse must exhibit straightness. “This is obviously required for the dressage and show jumping phases, but especially for accuracy in the cross country phase,” Lucy explains. “I like doing arrow heads and diagonal poles. It shows the rider if they have that precision without jumping. It’s so important when riding cross country that you can make a last-minute adjustment. Poles can massively validate that. I often build a pattern over ‘X’ in the arena, meaning I can keep taking riders on a figure of eight, going off both reins through a couple of arrowheads. It can really make it clear where loss of shoulder control presents from one rein to another.” And our pole guru has a great exercise for show jumpers, although eventers might also love it. It’s a low, raised, bounce exercise on a curved line at canter with the jumps set at about ten feet apart. Start with the poles on floor, then progress to raising them up. Many of Lucy’s pole patterns are suitable for use across the board. “They help all horses, in all disciplines. Every dressage, eventing, and show jumping horse needs to be rhythmical, supple, straight and balanced for their job. Muscle development is of course different in each discipline, but the poles highlight where a weakness might be,” she says. “The benefits are substantial but for me, seeing a horse become more confident and comfortable in how they place their feet, while learning how to use their body better during a pole pattern session, is hugely gratifying.” Contact Lucy through lucywilliamsequestrian.com, and make absolutely sure you don’t miss her instructional videos over in our VIP area.
IMAGES TOP TO BOTTOM: A low, raised, bounce exercise on a curved line at canter is a great exercise for show jumpers. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 101
Horse classes and her mother, Kate, rides and is secretary for the Australian Stock Horse Society’s Moss Vale branch.
YO U N G R I D E R
Setting the record straight
One of Brielle’s major achievements has been receiving on four consecutive occasions a prestigious equestrian award at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. “It’s the RM Williams Trophy for the Most Versatile Stock Horse Ridden by a Youth under 18. I won it with Tommy in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021.The Show wasn’t held in 2020,” she explains. And that’s a record that will go down in ASH history!
The youngest daughter in a family of Australian Stock Horse enthusiasts, Brielle Powell’s equestrian journey started early and has gone from strength to record-breaking strength, writes SUZY JARRATT. It all began on a little pony named Noni. Brielle Powell was then three years old and she’s been riding ever since. Now eighteen, this talented equestrian has made her mark in the show ring, especially in Australian Stock Horse (ASH) classes with her recently retired
gelding Runaroo Tomcat – Tommy, to his friends. Based on the family property at Yerrinbool in the NSW’s Southern Highlands, Brielle’s parents and older sister all have horses. Her father, Michael, competes in working Stock
102 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 3 • 2 0 2 2
Runaroo Tomcat has been with her since 2011. He’s a fifth generation Heritage Stock Horse, which is defined as a registered ASH descended from the same breeds resident in this country prior to 1945 and ridden by the Australian Light Horse in WWI. “Tom and I grew together to become a strong combination,” Brielle says. “As well as Stock Horse classes he’s been successful at Pony Club, and in jumping, eventing, and hunter classes. He was so consistent in everything he did. He's 18 now and retired but we keep him in light
YOUNG RIDER
work and sometimes take him out on trails with young horses.” One of these younger ones is Brandwood Samurai, a three-year-old Warmblood ASH gelding by Rotspon, who Brielle has had since a weanling. “He’s black with four white socks and a star. He lives outside all the time and is a good doer. Already he’s done well in led classes at local agricultural shows,” she says, “and I’ll be competing this year in the hopes of qualifying for the 2023 Royals and Nationals.” Over the years Brielle has witnessed a rise of interest in the breed: “Riders have been changing over to registered Stock Horses, and they’re not just people in the bush. Many metropolitan showies are converting so they can compete in both open and ASH hack classes.” To keep her horses fresh, she trains five days out of seven: “I like to vary their work. I don’t rigidly adhere to one particular method. I figure out a lot of things for myself, but I’m guided by my parents who’ve been instrumental in developing my skills. And I’m extremely grateful to Les Friend who’s taught me for six years at the Sutton Forest Equestrian Centre. He stresses the importance of giving the horse a job and making it go forward. He’s also really good at getting the horses relaxed.” Friend coaches the Equestrian Australia Youth Development Squad and over the years has been the recipient of many equestrian awards. He speaks highly of Brielle’s capabilities: “She’s very talented, a good trainer and a nice young lady. Her parents keep her grounded and she should do well.” Since leaving school several months ago, Brielle’s been a stablehand at an agistment centre in nearby Welby. “I’m keen to have a future with horses and I’d like to experience working in a UK dressage or showing yard,” she tells me. “But as that’s not possible in this current climate I’ll continue at Welby, take on horses for people who want me to ride them at shows, exercise the ones at home, continue being coached, and train my young horse to be as good as Tommy.”
FACING PAGE: Triumph at the 2021 Sydney Royal (Image by Rodney’s Photography). ABOVE TOP: Competing in the 2021 Open Challenge Time Trial at Moss Vale ASH Branch Show & Challenge (Image by Rodney’s Photography). ABOVE BOTTOM: Supreme Youth Horse at the 2019 County of Cumberland ASH Show (Image by Kim Talbert, Catch Light Photography). W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 103
S
ituated on approximately 100 well-tended acres not far from the vibrant town of Garfield, this
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Located only five minutes from Victoria’s Pakenham Racing Precinct, 25 Finlay Lane, Garfield has unlimited potential.
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PROPERTY CENTRAL
huge water storage tank to collect run off from the roof. It features a mirrored Olympic size indoor arena with a sand and flock base, twenty-five stables, three tack rooms and eight wash bays. The centre’s offices are air conditioned, with a bathroom, gym, kitchen cafeteria, and comfortable glazed and tiled viewing lounge equipped with a wood heater to beat the winter chills. The centre’s exterior facilities include a wash bay, feed areas, and ample parking for vehicles and floats, as well as an outdoor arena. Other possible development opportunities could easily stretch to an exclusive horse breeding and training facility, an all-inclusive Olympic training centre, a health and wellness resort, or perhaps take advantage of the property’s riding trails and spectacular lake with an adventure retreat. Fifty small and twelve large paddocks, all with rye and clover pasture, offer more than adequate equine accommodation – and for you there’s a generously proportioned, architecturally designed tri-level home with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, four expansive living spaces, a kitchen dining area that makes entertaining an absolute pleasure, and stunning views out to the Baw Baw Ranges. The home is equipped with energy saving solar panels and the inground pool is solar heated. Connected to the town supply, there’s also tank and dam water if required. Everything about this magnificent property speaks to quality and comfort. Visit horseproperty.com.au for further information on this truly unique offering.
TOP: The equestrian centre has twenty-five stables, three tack rooms and eight wash bays. MIDDLE: The home’s spacious dining area is filled with natural light. BOTTOM: Economically solar powered, the centre’s air conditioned office area includes a bathroom, gym, and kitchen. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 105
20 QUESTIONS
20 Questions with Rachel Watts
Thoroughbreds but I realised I wasn’t as good as I needed to be to compete at an elite level. And I really enjoyed looking after elite level horses.
Q: Do you ever ride for pleasure or to cool down a horse?
A: Riders are plentiful at our yard. There’d have to be a severe shortage of them for me to be asked to ride! We try
Rachel Watts, international super groom and 2017 Equestrian Australia Groom of the Year, is well known for her complete dedication to horses.
to stick with our strengths at Bimbadeen.
Q: You groomed for Chris Burton in the UK. Do Shane and Chris have different training methods?
A: A difficult question. They have different riding styles. Burto likes to control every aspect of his horse and every move is calculated. Shane tends to be less so. I can’t say any more than that!
Q: Shane often takes 20 horses to a show. How do you plan for that?
A: There’d be up to ten people participating at an event but I’m the only one working solely from the ground. The riders pitch in to help when they’re able. All schooling is done in the saddle. Shane’s not into lungeing horses so I don’t have to do that either.
Q: How many international venues have you attended as head groom?
A: Once every month when I worked for Burto we would go from the UK to events in Ireland and around Europe. With Shane I’ve been to several TransTasmans in New Zealand, the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Scotland, Burleigh
Q: Were horses always part of your life? A: Yes. I grew up in Kyneton, Victoria
Marvis Wardell Award, which recognises
and all my family had horses and rode.
individual to the course. I then went to
Tryon in the US, and to Tokyo for the
work with Nick for ten months.
Olympic Games.
Q: When did you start with Shane Rose? A: In 2006 I worked at Bimbadeen,
Q: Is there still class distinction with
Shane and Niki’s property, for a few
grooms?
months while he went to WEG in Aachen
A: It’s improved a lot. If you look at
and on to Burleigh. I began full time
the recent Olympics riders, they’ve
there in ’07.
publicly thanked their grooms and
Q: Have you ever ridden competitively? A: I rode up to 3* on some great
acknowledged them in media reports
Q: You studied at Marcus Oldham College and received a major award.
A: I received the Australian Equine Scholarship to study an intense oneyear course at the college that included practical, veterinary and business management. My mentor was Nick Roe, a veterinarian, 3* eventer and racehorse trainer. Upon graduation I received the
an outstanding contribution by an
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and then across to Europe, WEG at
overseas riders when it comes to
and on social media.
20 QUESTIONS
Q: When overseas have you learnt any
Q: Is there one with whom you haven’t
Q: What qualities should a school leaver
tricks of the trade?
been able to establish a rapport?
A: Heaps. Every time you go on a trip
wanting to become a groom have?
A: Virgil! He and Shane have a very
A: Attention to detail, a desire to be
you learn something which makes your
special bond. And Burto had Tempranillo,
the best at what they’re doing, open to
work easier. The same would apply if
an opinionated mare but really sweet
new suggestions, and to keep learning
those people came to my yard – they’d
once you got to know her. Virgil has his
learn a heap from me.
about every aspect of horse health,
own opinions about everything.
management and schooling.
Q: Your biggest concern when flying
Q: Any changes to the sport since
OS with horses?
you’ve been involved?
A: Travel sickness upon arrival. And when on the plane not putting their
A: No longer are only Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne 5*. Now more eventing
heads down once the bars in front of
organisations are trying to make their
them have been removed, as they can
shows international and therefore
develop lung infections.
relevant to what our riders can expect at
Q: The greatest highlight? A: There are two. At Aachen in 2016,
the elite level overseas.
FACING PAGE: Rachel and Virgil at Wallaby Hill in 2020 (Image by Ashley Grant, The Blachat). BELOW: Rachel and the affectionate CP Qualified (Image by Janelle Christopher). BOTTOM: Shane and Rachel at the 2019 Equestrian NSW Awards Night (Image by Allira Fontana Photography).
CP Qualified was only 0.1 point behind Michael Jung. The Australians took out the Nations Cup and it was the first time the Germans had been beaten on their home soil. And, of course, you can’t look past winning a silver medal at Tokyo.
Q: Greatest disappointment? A: When Shanghai Joe died in 2017 at Badminton. Nugget, as we called him, was our homebred Thoroughbred, we still have his parents on the property. Shane had a fall from him and he bolted to the stables, slipping on the concrete and breaking his shoulder. He had to be euthanized. I’d known him since he was three months old. He was the sweetest guy with the biggest heart.
Q: Any close shaves? A: A freak accident in 2012. I was kicked in the face breaking my eye socket, cheekbone and nose which had to be reconstructed. I was out of action for a bit.
Q: What’s essential when preparing for an event?
A: Apart from the obvious tack three major things: a watch, timetable and my full grooming kit.
Q: Do you have time for a social life? A: Yes and no. I catch up with friends at events and we have family dinners on Friday nights. No partner at the moment.
Q: Favourite horse at Bimbadeen? A: Virgil. Also Easy Turn, a beautiful mare who is lovely to deal with. W W W. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 107
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