HubVibes August 2017 by Equestrian Hub Magazine

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM EQUESTRIAN HUB

August 2017 The Way of the Horse

Brett Davey

Dressage Superstar Charlotte Dujardin

HELMET REGULATIONS

Horse Muscle

HEALTH

Masterclass with Shannan Goodwin NEW: Horse Horoscopes Plus plenty more!

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Accidents Happen! Hub Help is raising funds to support victims and their families in the event of an equine accident.

If you have a story to tell or want to donate, contact:

info@equestrianhub.com.au or head to this LINK.

FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH

YOUR CLUB IN PROFILE

FIT TO RIDE

BRETT DAVEY CHOSEN FOR WAY OF THE HORSE

PRODUCT REVIEW

A DRESSAGE SUPERSTAR MAKES IT LOOK EASY

25 YOUNG RIDER OF THE MONTH

MIND YOUR MELON

CHARITY HIGHLIGHT

12 SHANNAN GOODWIN

LESSONS FROM A MASTERCLASS

HUB SADDLE REVIEW

CANDIDLY SPEAKING

STARS BY EPONA

PCA NSW STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

BREED SPOTLIGHT

NEWS & VIEWS FROM EQUESTRIAN HUB HubVibes Editorial & Advertising Enquiries: candida@equestrianhub.com.au The Saddle Hub Sales Enquiries: Fiona Todd: 0414 760 067 Graphic Design: Joanna Reid: 0408 773 851 Published by Equestrian Hub PO Box 13 • Tintenbar NSW 2478 Phone: 0414 760 067 • Email: info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au

Proud supporters of

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Welcome to August and how fast are we rolling towards Christmas? Very exciting month for us all in Equestrian Hub world, but first an apology… Gremlins invited all the software we use to drive the various parts of the Equestrian Hub website to a massive Christmas in July party. It appears that a few love/hate relationships were established that wreaked havoc with the site and caused a few people to tear their hair out! The first party trick was to deactivate all the contact forms, so if you emailed us through a contact button in the last week of July, and we didn’t respond, we were not being rude, we just didn’t receive your enquiry.

The Hub Help website is being finalised during August, which is timely as we see another young rider, 22 year old Emma Botfield, suffer an acquired brain injury recently.

We are looking to include your stories of the ‘Road to Recovery’, it is your opportunity to tell your story and help out a fellow rider. Email them to me at: fiona@equestrianhub.com.au One of the wonderful fundraising activities we will be undertaking shortly will be an online auction of a model of the one and only Valegro personally autographed by this month’s Hub Hero, Charlotte Dujardin. We had such a great response to our towing story that this month we continue our journey about safety in our sport. The new rules around helmet safety are causing confusion in the equestrian world - and what do all those numbers mean! Dannii, out intrepid reporter, has helmeted up to give us all some clarity.

We are also thrilled to welcome a new regular contributor to HubVibes – the wonderful Epona, who will be giving us her horse horoscopes every month. Plus, we have a winner of our Sportz-Vibe Massage Rug! Congratulations to Melinda Downs from New South Wales for her win – we hope to show you a photo of her horse wearing its lovely new rug in the next issue. Stay safe and happy riding. Happy riding! Fiona Todd Director, Equestrian Hub

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Their second party trick was to paint the whole site a pretty shade of white. The offending party-goers have been reprimanded and, fingers crossed, there will be no more arguments.

Discussions I have had with equestrian accident victims and their families always contain similar elements, the feeling of being alone, not knowing where to turn and not knowing what to expect.

Brett Davey chosen for

The Way of the Horse

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Brett is a firm believer in the importance of long-reining.

When international dressage rider Brett Davey heads for New Zealand to take part in this year’s The Way of the Horse competition, as part of Equitana 2017, he will not only be starting an unhandled horse in only four sessions, but also breaking new ground, writes Candida Baker.

It would have to be said that normally we Equitana fans tend to associate TWOTH (The Way of the Horse), more with natural horsemanship techniques than with performance horse training, but Hunter-Valley based Brett Davey is sure he’s up for the challenge. Brett has had a stellar career – he is a former National Young Rider Dressage

Champion and he has competed in eventing and in Grand Prix dressage both here and internationally. It was while he and his partner, dressage rider Andrea Bank, were working in Germany for the internationally renowned Johnny Hilberath that the trainer noticed the young Australian had an unusual talent for breaking in horses. “There was a particularly difficult horse there that threw Johnny, and he walked past me and said, ‘that one’s for you’,” Brett laughs. “But to be honest I’ve never minded the difficult horses, I like getting inside their heads and working through things. You have to set them boundaries but you become their friend and then they will do anything for you.” Brett had been breaking, or starting, horses for many years before his stint in Europe but it was brought home to him that there was something a bit different about his technique which meant that he was producing extremely reliable performance horses.

horses for many days – I’ll take them around the property, introduce them to new things, teach them flexion from the ground, so that by the time I actually get on them it’s not only not a drama but they already know how to collect, they’re soft to turn and to stop, and the whole process is easy.” In the end, he says, and it’s probably the single most sensible piece of horse advice I’ve ever heard: “A few weeks extra on the ground actually takes months of the training process, and so for me it’s crazy not to do it,” he says. “So many trainers rush the process and it’s often to the horses – and the riders detriment.” It’s the reliability of his method, and the standard of the horses that it produces that brought him to the attention of the TWOTH organisers. (TWOTH was created by the EQUITANA Australia team in 2005 as a way to showcase a kinder and more caring way to start a young horse, so that it becomes a willing and happy riding partner. The trainers chosen for the challenge have the same ethos.)

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Coming back home – along with Andrea’s stallion Doringcourt Bank and Doringcourt But how exactly will he go - and continuing to expand pitted against three ‘natural’ Brett competing in a Prix their breeding and training trainers including New Saint Georges dressage test facility, Brett began to refine Zealand’s Tui Teka and on the Lusitano stallion, Q.C. his training techniques and Emily Wiebel. Will he be to work out the most able to fast-track his slow consistent way to produce a calm horse. and steady method in the pressure environment of the Equitana arena? “I’d always spent a lot of time working with horses on the ground,” he says, “and grad“To be truthful,” he says, “I don’t know. I’ve ually I’ve become convinced that this is the got a system that I know works without fail single most important element to creating a and that produces horses that go on to an calm, drama-free start for a horse. As well as international level, but in this environment I a lot of ground work, I also long-rein the have no idea! In the end even though it’s a

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competition the most important thing is the horse’s longevity and welfare, and of course although I love to be competitive, the horse’s welfare has to be the most important thing.” Another difference between Brett and many other trainers is that he is insistent that young horses shouldn’t have too much pressure put on them too early. “I do a lot of handling of the two-year-olds,” he says, “I might put the roller on them, mouth them, or long-rein them a little, then turn them out again. They aren’t ridden until they are at least three-and-a-half and then for only five minutes at a time. A lot of people ride young horses for far too long and the horse stops enjoying the process.”

stables to mounting blocks and cavaletti. While the couple were overseas they were making sure that their stallions were taking care of business back home and the result is that they now have quite a few young horses on the ground ready to bring on, and although Brett says that: “I’m a much better dressage rider than I am eventer,” he’s open to the idea that one of his horses may well end up doing

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By setting up in the Hunter Valley Brett has returned to where his love of horses started. “I grew up between Newcastle and Maitland,” he says, “and I got my first pony when I was only two – mostly at the influence of my Dad Groundwork and getting to know the horse well before backing who was heavily involved it is essential to his training regime. with showjumping for many years.” (Graham Davey is top-level eventing. “I originally got into eventa highly-respected FEI International level ing because I had a dressage horse that could show-jumping judge.) jump,” he says, “but I must admit that nothing Brett went to school in the Hunter Valley can beat the adrenalin of cross-country.” before going to Charles Sturt University in Except, perhaps, for working with a Bathurst where he studied science and busicompletely unhandled horse in front of a ness. “Studying business was very valuable,” massive crowd at the same time as three he says, “because I realised while we were other trainers! in Europe that there were everyday products there that no-one was doing well here, and Equitana 2017 is on between November 23-26 that we could bring them in as a sideline to at the ASB Showground in Auckland, help support the horse business.” Flaneur New Zealand. Equine has quickly established itself as a photo credit: Rebbecca Ashton quality supplier of everything from arenas and

A Dressage Superstar Makes It Look Easy When Charlotte Dujardin, CBE, came out to Australia last month to conduct a Masterclass at the Brisbane CDI the audience got almost as much out of it as the participants. You honestly didn’t even need to be a dressage fan to feel highly tearful and emotional on the evening Wednesday December 14, 2016 when, in front of a sell-out crowd of 7,500, the amazing 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Valegro – one of the most successful dressage horses in the history of the sport - said farewell to his competition career. The story behind Valegro’s rise to fame is just as inspirational, when you consider that ten years ago Charlotte Dujardin, the current star of the world dressage scene, had never even ridden a dressage horse!

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Based in Gloucestershire in England, Charlotte was so keen to learn that she asked a local trainer, the highly talented Carl Hester for help, and even though Charlotte was only just 20 at the time, something about her riding caught his eye and he began to mentor the aspiring rider.

Only five years later both Carl and Charlotte were part of the British dressage team that won a gold medal at the London Olympics – and it wasn’t the teacher that sealed the Gold – it was Charlotte and Valegro’s almost perfect partnership that saw her gain a score of 83.286 – even higher than Carl Hester’s. After her win Charlotte said: “It’s all so surreal. It’s the ultimate dream just to get here, to ride here – but to get a gold medal!”

Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro strut their stuff. Valegro, whose stable name is the somewhat less romantic-sounding Blueberry, is partowned by Carl, who would have been well within his rights to ride the horse himself. But once he saw the bond – described by many onlookers ‘telepathic’ – between his student and Valegro he insisted that Charlotte be Valegro’s sole jockey. “The two of them thrive under pressure,” he said at the time of the Olympics, “and they are on the verge of becoming superstars.” How right he was! Valegro (by Negro x Gershwin) is the world record holder in the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special and Kur to Music. He is the double European Champion (2013, 2015), the World Champion (2014) and the double Olympic Champion (2012, 2016). He is the double

winner of the World Cup Finals (2014, 2015). Since the spring of 2012 he has always won every class he has been entered in, except for two rides at the 2014 CDIO Aachen (2nd, 6th) and the Grand Prix at the 2016 Olympic Games (2nd). He recorded 52 international victories at Grand Prix level between 2011 and 2016. As for his rider, Born in Enfield, Charlotte was brought up in Hertfordshire and started riding as a two-year old. By the time she was sixteen, Charlotte, with the support of her family, had won the Horse of the Year Show competition four times and was a winner at Hickstead on three occasions. After further encouragement from her trainer, Debbie Thomas, Charlotte took up dressage with a horse bought from her grandmother’s inheritance. After ten days at Carl Hester’s yard he offered Charlotte a job as a groom at his yard in Newent, Gloucestershire, where she has since remained. Charlotte’s horse at the time was Fernandez whom she trained and brought through the levels.

Part of the attraction of Charlotte’s riding is the way she makes it look easy, and as participants in her recent Masterclass at Brisbane’s CDI discovered, for her passing on what she has learned is a passion. “One of the things I learned from Carl is to

Charlotte Dujardin made history when she defended her individual freestyle Gold Medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016. all of that is vital for horses.” Although Valegro has retired Charlotte will continue to ride him in demonstrations and on tour. “He loves performing,” she says. “Now we can take all the pressure off and really enjoy ourselves.” And perhaps she can finally find time to marry her long-term fiancé, ex-long-distance South African Dean Golding, who attached a sign to his shirt when his fiancée won the Gold Medal at Rio saying: ‘Can we get married now?’ He'll be hard pushed to find a moment - since Rio, she has been doing demonstrations and giving masterclasses in New York, Toronto, Seattle, Los Angeles and Sweden. Not to mention down our way in New Zealand, and at Caboolture.

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During their partnership Charlotte and Valegro also achieved an individual gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the Dressage Freestyle, making Charlotte the first British woman to retain an individual Olympic title, and briefly the most successful female British Olympian in the history of the Games, before track and road cyclist Laura Trott surpassed her record with a fourth gold. Dujardin and Valegro set a new Olympic dressage score of 93.857 in the Grand Prix Freestyle and also won a team silver medal.

use a light contact,” she says, “and to always make training fun for the horse. Valegro’s schedule has always included hacking out, a couple of days off a week, and plenty of time out in a field to keep him relaxed and I think

Mind Your Melon Melon protectors – what’s the difference? We all know that helmets keep our heads safe and there are plenty on the market, but which offers the best protection? We take a look at what the current regulations are and what’s on the market. Is a helmet a helmet? Any old helmet should be able to protect your noggin, right? Wrong. Not all helmets are made the same and with technological advances, helmet makers have come a long way to make sure that the materials used can withstand the impacts of horse riding.

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I shudder at the thought, but I was still riding around in my old Harry Hall helmet that I purchased in the late 1980’s up to ten years ago. You know the one, it had a thin shell covered in velvet and a flimsy elastic chin strap. I’m really not sure how much protection it gave but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t a lot compared to what we have on the market now.

As of 1 January 2017, Equestrian Australia withdrew the EN1384 safety standard. This meant that riders were not able to compete in helmets stamped with EN1384 and were required to purchase a new helmet of the new safety standard of VG1, or international equivalent. For example, new helmets should have the EN1384 VGI or above printed on the inside. Full information about the helmet regulation updates can be found on the Equestrian Australia website. Since this new safety standard was implemented, there are now several different

helmets on the market. You can spend big dollars on a helmet, but it won’t make it any safer. As long as the helmet is meeting the current safety certification you’re buying a certified protective helmet. Spending more might get you different padding, lighter shells, fancier decorations and materials, but it doesn’t translate into more protection. That being said, here are my favourite helmet choices currently on the market:

DUBLIN ARISTA HELMET The Dublin Arista helmet features a microfibre suede look which looks elegant and is easy to clean. It isn’t as bulky as some of the other helmets on the market and comes with stainless steel vents that allow air through. There is a good choice of colours and it is available in black, grey and navy. Priced from $99 - $160 (for the bling edition), it’s in a great price range for those who want something stylish yet practical.

UVEX EXXENTIAL HELMET The Uvex Exxential helmet combines protection with lightweight polycarbonate materials. It is fully adjustable in the back with a toggle that can be opened and closed to fit the width and height of your head. The harness can also be extensively adjusted to ensure an accurate fit. While it is stream-lined,

it uses a polycarbonate shell that does have a somewhat plastic look. However, what it lacks in appearance it makes up for in its lack of weight. It also offers a choice of colours black, grey, blue and brown - and is reasonably priced at $160 - $180.

CHARLES OWEN WELLINGTON PROFESSIONAL HELMET The Charles Owen Wellington Professional helmet offers a slim and streamlined outer casing that is covered in premium microfiber suede material. It has a uniquely soft and snug-fitting microfiber suede-lined harness and a drawstring allows the harness to be fully adjusted. Comfort has been at the forefront of this helmetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design with the super-soft headband offering superior comfort. There are four perforated ventilation holes visible only from the inside which allow heat to escape. There is no other colour choice other than black and it is priced at $200 - $250 for those wanting a more luxuriously comfortable helmet choice.

SAMSHEILD SHADOWMATT HELMET

CASCO PRESTIGE AIR HELMET The Casco Prestige Air helmet delivers more than shiny good looks - it provides great air flow even when the outside temperatures are set to cremate. A honeycomb mesh is stretched across the interior of the helmet to achieve perfect comfort and position without touching the head itself. The interior of the helmet comes with soft top-stitched leather and there are several colour options of white with gold piping, black carbon, black, beige and navy with silver-piping. Priced at $200 this helmet is the optimum riding cap for those in the hottest climates.

KEP CROMO GLITTER TEXTILE HELMET The Kep Cromo Glitter Textile helmet is beautiful and stylish. The shell includes air passages that allow the air to circulate in a single, precise direction of flow: fresh air comes in from the front slits and keeps the head cool, while the warm air created by body heat flows out from the rear of the helmet. This keeps the head permanently cool and dry. The internal lining is anatomical pad that adapts perfectly to fit the nape of the neck, ensuring optimum comfort and total breathability. This helmet is black with a black scratch proof glitter front grill and is priced at $1250.

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The Samshield ShadowMatt is made of an extra light polycarbonate paired with an expanded polystyrene inner core that absorbs shock upon impact. The inside of the helmet has memory foam that offers a consistent shape and depth for exceptional fit, comfort and stability. The inner shell can be replaced quickly and cheaply after a fall. There are discrete vents above and below the visor and the highly effective airflow

channels help increase circulation to eliminate sweat. While there is a huge range of colours and design details for this helmet, at $500 the ShadowMatt is the entry level model. Different colours and materials will expand the cost.

Shannan Goodwin LESSONS FROM A MASTERCLASS Northern Rivers-based Shannan Goodwin was recently selected to ride in a dressage Masterclass with Charlotte Dujardin writes Dannii Cunnane, who was there to watch as Shannan and her horse Artistede went through their paces. I was lucky enough to be at the 2017 Brisbane CDI recently which was held at the state equestrian centre in Caboolture, Queensland and what an event it was.

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But without a doubt whether you ride at Prelim level or higher, the Charlotte Dujardin Masterclass was one of the most fascinating events to watch. Every single attendee was glued to their seat eager to understand what Charlotte was saying to improve both horse and rider.

Charlotte Dujardin is an elite British dressage rider, triple Gold Medallist at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics Games, European Champion, World Champion and she holds all three World Records in Dressage. She has a no-nonsense approach to teaching and didn’t hold back when a transition or instruction was performed in a sloppy fashion. The Masterclass offered a range of horses and riders from young horse through to Grand Prix. Shannan rode Artistede, her beautiful 11-year-

old bay Warmblood gelding and was the last rider of the day. Training her beautiful partner herself, Shannan has owned Artistede since she purchased him as a freshly broken three year old and has never looked back. “I purchased Artistede off Nicole Magoffin as a green broken horse,” explains Shannan. “I was training with her at the time and trying to do dressage on my Stock horse, but I had heard about this young horse and purchased him without seeing or sitting on him under saddle. He has a slow hind leg and is naturally croup high, but he is bold and will do anything you ask him to do which has helped in his training and in both of us being able to move up the levels together.” What is truly sensational is that Shannan was a complete Dressage amateur when she started with Artistede and has trained him from the lower levels through to FEI. “I took lessons from Nicole Magoffin, Nicole Tough as well as Tor and Mel Van Den Berge which were fantastic and they have all taught me so much,” says Shannan. “I didn’t put any pressure on myself or my horse in the beginning stages, I just did what I was told in the lesson and went home to practice and hopefully to achieve the same feeling. We got to Elementary level and Artistede excelled at it. I found that the more you ask of him and the harder the work the more stimulated and happy he was to do it.”

Shannan got the distinct sense Artisdede wanted to go further – “so,” she says, “we did! But when we got to the Medium and Advanced levels, Artistede found the changes difficult - it took two years for us to push through and make them better. When we asked for one and two time changes he got his legs unstuck and understood the simpler change requests.” Shannan and Artistede are no stranger to large crowds - they have performed at large competitions and were included in the 2017 Festival of Dressage FEI Masterclass with Olympian Debbie McDonald. “I never have to worry that he’ll be silly, he loves performing in front of people,” says Shannan. “For both Masterclasses I got him into the arena and he really enjoyed himself – he looked around and was happy to see the crowd. He’s the perfect Masterclass horse.”

Everyone in the crowd was riveted to their seat as Charlotte counted the steps and told Shannan when to ride straight and then sweep sideways. The development in accuracy was stunning - right before our eyes and Artistede was on his best behaviour. Next they worked on the quality of the piaffe and passage which was improved when Shannan asked her horse to keep his ears up higher with each stride – the quality of the movements improved immensely. “I wanted to make everything better and that’s what we achieved at the Masterclass,” said Shannan. “We still have to work on these movements but I do have Charlotte and others in the back of my mind when we go out and compete. We hope to make an improvement in our marks soon but it was a really enjoyable experience.”

The day of the Charlotte Dujardin Masterclass didn’t make Shannan nervous, going with the flow of what Charlotte thought they should work on which was the counter change of hand in canter (also known as the dreaded zig-zag). This is a move where you half-pass to each side and in between each of those half-passes, you’re required to do a clean flying change: even better if those required changes are big, forward and uphill. Starting on the long side of the arena in canter, Shannan showed Charlotte how she currently undertook the move which was nice, but Charlotte could see further potential. Charlotte encouraged Shannan not to just move sideways, but to sweep across the arena.

While there was no recording of the Charlotte Dujardin Masterclass, you can enjoy the FEI Masterclass with Debbie McDonald on YouTube.

C A N D I D LY S P E A K I N G

Looking after your horse’s muscles Decades and many rescue horses later, I’ve come to realise how vital it is to make sure that your horse isn’t stiff. A stiff horse is an uncomfortable horse. An uncomfortable horse at the least will be what you might call ‘planky’ to ride, and at the worst might buck or resist in order to try and let you know that things are not all good in there. So how can you help your horse stay supple and fit and comfortable? A free-moving happy horse with a gleaming coat, on plenty of natural grass.

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As a novice pony owner many decades ago, I’m sorry to say that it never occurred to me that my horse’s muscles – not to mention her whole skeletal system – were just as important as my own.

Looking back now I shake my head in wonder that I would take her out for half-day ride, chuck her back in her paddock for a few weeks, then go out again full-bore around the country-side! Not only that but the saddle I rode her was an old-fashioned cavalry style saddle that sat straight on her back, and I realised many years later accounted for the fact that she always did a few little pig-roots going into canter.

One of the main things to be aware of is saddle fit, and the absolute importance that a saddle should not only fit a horse’s back well, but also not pinch their shoulders. Many people get a young horse fitted with a saddle and forget that several years later when the horse has filled out and muscled-up that same saddle can be doing untold damage. For humans it’s easy for us to verbalize our aches and pains, but not so for horses, which is why regular treatments are essential. Your horse carries you – and those muscles work hard, they deserve to have the occasional massage. But the other magic ingredient, from my point of view has been magnesium. The first time I heard about magnesium was when my son was competing his Arabian

Human food grade Magnesium Chloride flakes. through pony club and jump clubs and jumping was quite definitely their ‘thing’. Johnny also loved a good shy, and even though he became a seasoned campaigner until old age slowed him down he could be a somewhat feisty ride. That was, however, until someone recommended magnesium. Magnesium plays a role as an activator of enzymes and participates in muscle contractions. Magnesium deficiencies or abnormalities have an effect on neuromuscular function and cardiac tissue. As well as being important for the function of nerve, muscle and the formation of bone, it’s vital for the maintenance of electrolyte balance, particularly for Calcium and Potassium and it is primarily absorbed from the small intestine.

The most common form in animal feeds is Magnesium Oxide, a fine white powder. Magnesium Oxide is about 50% absorbable,

depending on the relative levels of Calcium also present. The advantage of magnesium oxide is that the body will not absorb it if there is no deficiency, so it is difficult to overdose a horse using this source. A layman’s way to tell is that if you feed your horse magnesium and their manure becomes a bit runny then back it off, or stop. If the manure remains wellformed on the magnesium then the horse is absorbing it. Another way to supplement is Magnesium Chloride flakes – this is a human food grade product which is available from quite a few sources. If your horse is a particularly anxious, nervy type or is restless under saddle, has a tendency to buck, has sweaty or very dry skin, and doesn't like being groomed it may well have a magnesium deficiency. These days vets are even inclined to think that conditions such as laminitis, diabetes, Queensland Itch and stifle catch can respond to Magnesium treatment. For more information on magnesium you could go to: http://www.nikitanaturals.com http://www.hygain.com.au/feedingmagnesium-to-horses/ HubVibes editor, Candida Baker is the President of Save a Horse Australia and also runs a facebook page, The Horse Listeners.

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Just as if an athlete might be described magnesium for muscle cramps (or indeed any of us if we’ve over done it), and an Epsom Salt bath – which is in fact magnesium, so horses often need an extra dose of it if they are competing, or in a very hot climate where they might sweat profusely, or on poor pasture. But it is also possible to use it for extremely nervy horses, and although until recently the evidence was only anecdotal a study by a group of Australian researchers has found that an extra 10g of magnesium added to a horse’s feed reduced their flight response.

Magnesium Oxide only absorbed if the body needs it.

PCA NSW State Championships photo credit:

Julie Wilson

Mackenzie Peterkin, Congarinni Pony Club, winner Rider 13 & under 15 years, State Showriding Championships.

Maddison Jones, Mangrove Mountain Pony Club, 3rd, C Grade State Showjumping Championships.

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Jessie Falconer from Queensland, 3rd, Associate Novice Dressage test, State Dressage Championships.

Dannica Whitty competing at the Tamworth State Championships.

Alyssa Smith, Gearyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gap Pony Club, Under 13 yrs Jumping Equitation Age Champion, Pony Club State Championships.

The 2017 Pony Club NSW State Combined Championships have wrapped up at the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre in Tamworth. 380 riders and close to 400 immaculately presented horses took part in the event.

Sisters Victoria & Rachael Temm, Forest Hills Pony Club, awarded the Associate Reserve Champion and Champion awards respectively, 2017 State Jumping Equitation Championships for the second consecutive year.

Anastasia Haling from Kootingal in the 13 & under 15 years B Grade Showjumping Championships.

PIX

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY www.equestrianevents.com.au H U BV I B ES M AG A Z I N E

Jemma Wood, Toronto Pony Club, 8th overall, State Dressage Championships age group events.

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photo credit:

Amy-Sue Alston

This club was first established in 1974 and has grown from strength to strength over the years.

picturesque setting, with plenty of shade and park.

The loyal committee and members have worked very hard to establish a permanent ground at Bendick Murrell (between Young and Cowra NSW) & purposely developed the grounds for dressage. There are six sand arena’s complete with sand tracks around each, a large sand warmup arena, large parking area, plenty of shade, wash bays, lunging areas, a dedicated spectators area, permanent yards and stables and camping facilities.

• 16 rubber lined stables all filled with sand • 3 stallion yards • 70 Large (4m x 4m, 190cm high) rubber lined steel yards • 5 large wash bays • Steamy hot showers, freshly refurnished • Toilets located around the grounds, with the recent addition of toilets near the stables • Plenty of parking • Lots of shade Next competition day is October 8th 2017 www.youngdressage.com

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Situated 25 minutes north of Young and 35 minutes south of Cowra, on the Olympic Way, the Bendick Murrell Sportsground is a quiet,

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Magnificent Lifestyle Equestrian and Business Property Sunbury Lodge Equestrian Centre, Kyneton, is one of very few equestrian properties with a Commercial Permit. There are 2 magnificent Olympic size arenas each 60 meters x 20 meters, one Indoor the other Outdoor both have surfaces that are perfect for year round training in any weather.

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The large car park has plenty of room for floats and has powered truck sites.

There are 18 stables inside the indoor complex, a full width glassed in gallery on the first floor, including a comfortable viewing

and recreation area with facilities guaranteed to please the most discerning visitor. Also included in the indoor complex to service overnight and international clients are five rooms with bunk beds. It is also facilitated with separate bathrooms and toilets. On top of all that there is a full kitchen and dining facilities. The Complex sits on 20 acres and is just 5 kilometres from Kyneton Township, with easy access to Calder Freeway and Melbourne CBD is less than an hour away.

Fit to Ride

Dannii Cunnane discovers that her personal fitness is just as important as her horse’s fitness – for both of them. This year we started competing Elementary and while my horse was ready, to my horror I found that I was not. For a start the whole first level Elementary test requires to be completed in sitting trot. This is not my strength and Dexter needed my support to set him up for success for each movement.

Let me just start out my saying that I am in no way a fan of the gym. Fitness for me used to consist of fitting a whole pizza in my mouth. I’ve had gym subscriptions but I just could never find the motivation to go, and on the rare occasion I did attend, I found that if left to my own devices, I wouldn’t push myself. The one form of fitness I really do enjoy though is riding my horse Dexter, and I dedicate as much time as possible to training him and myself in the big Dressage sand box. I’ve taken this horse from a wild off-the-track Thoroughbred to a mild mannered Novice Dressage horse.

After my past gym experiences I decided that I’d be better of in a group environment. A new fitness centre had been brought to my attention that offered high intensity group workouts for a duration of 45 minutes. It was a short drive from home and the best part was they offered a free two-week trial. I signed up for my first class and I didn’t really know what to expect. I was able to catch a glimpse of the class before mine and it was a mix of people all pushing themselves to be the best they could be. It also looked like bloody hard work. For 45 minutes I sweated my buns off doing cardio and weights – 45 seconds to complete one set of exercises doesn’t sound too Continued on page 33

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Like most owners, I’ve fussed over his feed and paid top dollar to ensure his nutritional needs are met. I add linseeds and the best vitamins and minerals I can afford to his feed as well as spending countless hours planning and undertaking riding sessions to build up his topline and stamina.

I found that I needed frequent rest stops in my lessons. I wondered how my instructor rode multiple horses a day without being puffed out and then it hit me – I was completely out of shape and holding my horse back. The pressures of working full-time and a busy lifestyle meant that I ate junk on the run and I’d let my fitness suffer. After spending all that effort on making sure my horse was the best athlete he could be I’d let down my end of the bargain.

PRODUCT REVIEW

ECOLICIOUS EQUESTRIAN Smeg-U-Later Sheath cleaning may not be the most glamorous or popular horse care procedure on the planet but it must be done, writes Dannii Cunnane. Unfortunately geldings can accumulate smegma, a waxy mixture of oil, dirt and skin cells along their sheath and penis which can be uncomfortable and also make them prone to infection. Occasionally a ‘bean’ (a hardened ball of smegma) forms that can lodge inside the sheath or the urethra and can cause medical issues. I received my bottle of Smegu-Later, which is an all-natural

sheath cleaner in the post and I have to say, it made my letterbox smell wonderful. The formula is all-natural and has calming Lavender oil included which not only smells divine but it also has a calming effect on both horse and the undercarriage cleaner (me). Luckily my horse is a freak and has no issues being handled ‘down there’, so after a spray up the nether regions with warm water we were good to go. A small amount of this product goes a long way and it’s easily rubbed into the nooks and crannies to loosen any debris. It cuts through the dirt easily

and its scent is heavenly as we all hate the natural smell associated with this job. While you don’t need to, I did rinse everything off when I was done and was quite happy with how much dirt was removed. Not only was my horse super clean down there, he was also extremely relaxed.

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The best part about this product is that it’s all-natural and environmentally friendly. EcoLicious Equestrian makes many products and they are all ecofriendly – so you’re making a green choice when purchasing from this company.

Dannii's horse looking 'relaxed' after his sheath cleaning procedure.

I enjoyed using this product so much that I’m not dreading the next time it needs to be undertaken. Want to purchase a bottle? More information can be found on the EcoLicious Equestrian website.

When only the best will do.

EQUI-LUXE-SELLE

Come and have a chat about our pre-loved saddle division, The Saddle Hub. We can also answer all your questions about HubVibes E-zine, Hub Directory, Hub Property, Hub Horses and our new addition Hub for Clubs. OCTOBER 2017

9-10 September The Sydney Eventing Summer Classic

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Where to Find Us

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AUGUST Young Rider of the Month

Olivia Comben

Olivia Comben’s first memory of sitting on a horse goes back to when she was two. “I’ve always ridden,” the now ten-year-old says. “Showing is what I love doing the most, but I also enjoy dressage, pony club, interschool comps, HRCAV, and of course, going on trail-rides.” Her main horse, Brandy Hill Park Royal Quest, AKA Bazz, is a 21-year-old 13.3hh part Welsh cross Riding Pony. “I’ve had Bazz for just over three years,” she says. “He loves going for rides to the local BMX track and trotting up and down all the hills.” Despite his age though, he’s no pushover! “He likes to shy on me sometimes,” she says, “especially when I’m not paying attention.” It’s Olivia’s ambition to win her riding class at

photo credit:

Moosestar Photography

Melbourne Royal Show one day. From Traralgon in Victoria, she is currently in Grade 4 at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, and as well as her horses Olivia has several other passions including netball and playing the piano. “I’ve recently started writing and singing my own songs as well,” she says. Multi-talented for sure.

If you are a young competition rider and would like to be considered for HubVibes Young Rider of the Month, email us for a questionnaire to complete: promote@equestrianhub.com.au.

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• • •

CHARITY HIGHLIGHT

• • •

Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia RIDING FOR THE DISABLED ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA (RDA) IS A VOLUNTARY, NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION WHICH PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR ANYONE WITH A DISABILITY TO ENJOY SAFE, HEALTHY STIMULATING, THERAPEUTIC, HORSE-RELATED ACTIVITIES IN AUSTRALIA. With limited Government Funding available, your help is crucial. From making a donation to volunteering at a Centre, there are so many ways you can become involved with RDA. Give a Donation Your donation will help RDA Australia educate volunteers and Coaches about disabilities as well as deliver services to people with disabilities. Make your donation online.

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Volunteer or Coach at RDA

RDA enables people with disabilities throughout Australia to experience enjoyment, challenge and a sense of achievement through participation in equestrian activities to improve their quality of life, attain personal goals and develop life skills. There are more than 70 RDA centres across Australia and they provide suitable horses, trained volunteer helpers,

accredited RDA coaches, riding and safety equipment to run a range of equestrian activities including: • structured riding classes • recreational horse riding • hippotherapy • mounted games/ competitive riding • vaulting • carriage driving • dressage • equestrian camps

Do some rewarding hands on work with RDA’s clients. Volunteer in a lesson or help out in the Centre office or become a Coach and assist clients to reach their potential. For further information on RDA, visit their webpage for more details.

CLEARANCE $1,000 Pariani 17”

$2,995 Equipe Emporio 16”

$1,100 Stubben Roxane 17”

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Southern Stars Dressage 17”

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$800 Bates Maestro 17”

$3,000 Harry Dabbs Platinum Jaguar 17” H U BV I B ES M AG A Z I N E

For more saddle information visit our website.

$1,250

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HUB SADDLE REVIEW

Saddle r e v i e w : CWD 2GS Simone from Victoria purchased her beautiful CWD 2GS jumping saddle through the Equestrian Hub and couldn’t be happier. “I love my CWD, it has been a really great purchase,” Simone said.

horse because of this but since purchasing the CWD I’ve changed my mind as it has given me such a secure seat. “I’ve had a few accidents and my lower back, hip and leg gives me pain. I’ve found that the saddle supports my body and holds me in the saddle when going over the jumps, I no longer have the associated pain after a ride.

“I was riding in another brand and found that my legs were unstable and that “I tell everyone who will listen to buy this saddle, I’m my horse was able to pull really happy with the quality and the price – it has been me forward and out of the a great purchase and really holds its value.” saddle. I almost sold my

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Aries

y b s r a t S pona E

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Welcome to the season of

eclipses, a time when ears prick, nostrils flare and every wafting scarf or snapping twig hides a wild cat ready to pounce. It's also a time of excellence, when we can best previous records, and give our most outstanding performances. Exercise caution on eclipse days – Aug 7th and 21st and when Mercury turns retrograde on the 13th. Horse owners need to plan for travel, delivery and repair/ recuperation to take a little longer. Expect delays and detours until the mid-September.

With ruling Mars in Leo this month, I expect to be treated like royalty. Definitely more demanding of attention and praise, but when I get it, watch me shine. If there’s competition involved, with everyone looking on, all the better. Left to my own devices, I’ll chase, nip and kick whatever creature gets in my way. You have been warned.

Taurus

It’s a sensitive month where I need a gentler touch. Would it kill you to go easy on the curry comb, for example? And what’s with the ice-cold hose downs? I don’t see you standing under that spray. I’ll train hard, if you ask nicely, but consider upping my carbs, at least until the new moon on the 21st. If there’s a paddock to graze in, I’ll love you forever.

Gemini

If you want to avoid miscommunication, please use your words. I understand them, when you enunciate clearly. Ruling Mercury turns retrograde so yes, I am a little out of sorts, not performing at my peak, 24/7. This happens to the best of us, so be kind, understanding and vary the routine, please. A horse gets bored, you know?

Cancer

I’m channeling the wild gods this month. Excited? You should be. I’ll give your handling skills a run for their money. The upside, for you, is I’ll look magnificent, even if I’m acting out. For me, I’ll be connecting to my roots, my ancient ancestors, all the way back to Plesippus, i.e. pre-domestication. Consider a free rein and hand gallop essential.

Leo

Notice how my coat shines? How my mane and tail flow? If you’re trimming, or roaching (goddess forbid) please stop. I’m at my most stunning with a natural look. Also, can you do something about the lack of herd in my life? I’m here to lead. It’s a little difficult when all I have is one fat pony and a few chickens to hang out with. Seriously.

Virgo

I put up with a lot, for example, domestication, but I’m asking a few things in return. Purified, filtered water, organic hay and grain, and please, no pesticide based fly repellant. If you can stand next to me all day with a switch, perfect? And one last thing, please make sure the farrier lines the nails up exactly. They can use a ruler, if necessary. Thank you.

Libra

It’s a bad time to change my stablemate. Separation anxiety heightens under eclipses, and I don’t want to start a new relationship now. All that sharing of history … it’s too taxing. Unless, you find me a perfect match – elegant, noble, generous to a fault. Refined. Remember that mule you put me with last year? Don’t do that again. Ever.

Scorpio

My ruler Jupiter is in challenging alignment with Pluto, making for a restless month. You will not want to skip a day of training, or turn out in the paddock. Trail rides would definitely take the edge off. Otherwise, the energy builds until the inevitable explosion. Don’t blame me if I take it out on the stall door, float or the neighbour’s donkey.

Capricorn

Eclipse-shmips. I’m too dignified to succumb to the shenanigans of those born under a lesser sign. Always in control, I’ll soldier on through any astro-influence. As a reward, I expect more accolades. If the trophy room seems sparse, it’s because you aren’t getting me out enough. Address the issue so my accomplishments are known, worldwide.

Aquarius

High strung under the best of times, you’ll need to get out the kid gloves this month. Befriend me, and I’ll respond in kind, but start bossing me around and look out. Bruce Lee never kicked so high, or hard. To be honest, my impulse control is at an all-time low. Help me burn the adrenaline so I don’t do anything regrettable. Much appreciated.

Pisces

Skittishness, or full meltdowns, are possible under the eclipse astro. Best avoid introducing me to anything new, confronting, unconventional or odd-shaped. For example, if you decide to open an umbrella while leading me to the barn, try a warning, please. The unfamiliar is totally freaking me out. Also, can you hook me up with some acepromazine?

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You know the Chinese saying, “Crisis is opportunity with blah blah blah?” Not true. Crisis is just what it sounds like, a pain in the ass, so do the preventative. Clean my hooves before and after training. Check my vaccine, worming and teeth floating schedules. Walk the fence line. Ounce of prevention; pound of cure. That saying always works.

Sagittarius

Bamborough Ella

Courtlands Toffifee

13.2hh, 7yo, Chesnut Mare

15.3hh, 4yo, Bay Mare

Sire: Naruni Park Taylor Made Dam: Tamarisque Elite

Dam: Cil Dara Chocolat (BJK Casanova)

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Price: $15,000 neg

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Sire: Aqua Oblique (Omega)

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Continued from page 21 - Fit to Ride hard but with 10 second breaks in between burpees, planks and box jumps with squats I could hardly catch my breath. It was ntense and I was feeling the burn, but I pushed through and survived my first class. I went four times that week and gave it everything I had and started making healthier food choices. I guess when you’re pushing a 10-kilogram sled with sweat dripping into your eyeballs you curse any bad food you’ve eaten that day. A few days later I booked myself in for another riding lesson and I couldn’t have been more surprised. While I didn’t really notice a huge difference in my fitness while working out, my horse certainly did. My long suffering instructor was pleasantly surprised when Dexter pulled out some brilliant collected trot work and I finally felt like I was able to set him up and help him into the movements with my legs and upper body. I thought I’d also test out a little bit of sit trot and to my amazement I was able to feel my

core, control my seat and not bounce like a sack of spuds. I was able to sit trot for 20 minutes and wasn’t dying for a rest. I think that’s when it had finally sunk in. I had been letting our team down by neglecting my own fitness and unfairly expecting my horse to carry my dead weight. Something had to change – I had to keep as much of an interest in my own personal fitness as I had in my horse’s. I’m now several weeks into my new fitness regime and while I curse the exercises and the burn of tired muscles, I know that it is making my partnership stronger with Dexter. Choose a gym and fitness routine that suits you – if you can’t afford a gym fee there are plenty of online clips and exercise instructions that you can download free of charge. By building up your cardio and strength you’ll have more stamina and ability to support your horse when they need it. You’ll also be a better partner to your equine sidekick.

E info@nuwallacontracting.com.au M 0428 486 165 W www.nuwallacontracting.com.au

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Supplying NSW with premium hay and chaff

BREED SPOTLIGHT

The Mighty Shetland Pony The Shetland pony is a very versatile breed despite its size. Brought to the Shetland Isles by the Celtic people, it is thought that the pony is a descendant from a cob type Galloway from Southern Europe.

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The Shetland pony was the perfect size for conducting farm and mining work on the harsh environment of the Shetland Isles. The ponies were able to thrive off the coarse coastal grasses - even eating seaweed - and were the perfect size to fit in the coal-mines. They were also strong enough to plow paddocks and small enough to navigate the narrow island roads.

The Shetland is known for its distinct double winter coat, which grows shaggy in cooler climates. During summer Shetlands acquire a sleek summer coat like other equine breeds. The coat can be any colour or pattern except appaloosa spotted. While the Australian Pony Stud Book states that the Shetland should not exceed 10.2 hands high, they are not a slight breed and

they have a strong thick-set chest, barrel and hindquarters which has meant that they were capable of handling heavy weights. The disposition of the Shetland is level headed and good-natured; they are intelligent ponies who are highly trainable although if they not trained well they can become cheeky and nippy, so care must be taken to ensure they are not spoiled. Their small stature makes them a terrific saddle horse for children, but they are also a feature in the show ring with harness classes where they can pull a two or four-wheeled vehicle with ease at a brisk pace. For its size, the Shetland is the strongest of all horse and pony breeds - it can pull twice its own weight under circumstances in which a draft horse can only pull approximately half its own weight. They are also able to carry up to 59 kilograms, although adults riding these ponies are not recommended. For more information on Shetland ponies visit the Shetland Pony Society of Australia.

Antares Evolution 17"

Antares Evolution 17.5"

Reduced to: $2750

Reduced to: $3250

• Size: 17″ • Gullet (measured with a bates gullet gauge): Medium wide • Channel: front: 9cm, middle: 5cm, rear: 6.5cm • Flap width: 36cm • Flap length: from top of stirrup bar: 34cm, from top of flap: 32cm • Colour: Black • Panel fill: Latex • Flaps are size 2AB • Manufactured in 2014 • Condition of points: 3/5 • Comes with an Antares saddle cover

• • • • • • • • • • •

Evolution tree Saddle stamp: 17.5″ Saddle measure: 17.75″ Gullet: XW Flap length:35cm Flap width: 36cm Channel at rear: 6cm Channel at rear: 6.5cm Latex panels Twin flaps Full Buffalo

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SADDLERY AND TACK

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INLINE EQUINE

NEWS & VIEWS FROM EQUESTRIAN HUB Published by Equestrian Hub • PO Box 13 • Tintenbar NSW 2478 Phone: 0414 760067 • Email: info@equestrianhub.com.au www.equestrianhub.com.au