5 inches of snow has put pay to any riding over the last 5 days. The horses are quite happy though with the impromptu break and enjoying the chance to go in the field and play in the snow! So far so good though and only one shoe has been lost during their frolics.
It has been another busy month, the website has brought in a couple of new full liveries. I am really pleased with the response that it has generated and next year looks to be starting off well.
The Scottish area of British Dressage held an Awards Dinner and Ceilidh at the end of November. It was a really fun night and Freddie was awarded a trophy for being the highest placed Scottish horse at the National Championships.
Freddie and I headed down to Cheshire for two days training with Stephen Clarke at the beginning of December. Stephen worked on getting Freddie to sit and take more weight on his hindlegs and start to develop the head and neck carriage required for a Grand Prix horse. I find the balance between Carl and Stephen's training very good, they concentrate on different aspects of his way of going from which I can reach a balance between the two to find optimum power, submission and expression that suits Freddie and I.
Rafa has had a confidence building month being a guinea pig on two courses. The first was a BD Trainee Judges course taken by Andrew Gardiner and the second was a SEA/SportScotland Level 3 Coaches Course. He was especially good at the coaches course. He had to work for a long time the first day and I thought he would come out the next day saying he did not want to play..if anything he was more game and worked very well! Usually I come home feeling frustrated thinking 'Oh Rafa!!!' and it was lovely to come home and tell everyone how great he had been!
The BIG news is I have a BIG new horse..huge Hugo arrived last week!! He is a lovely elegant looking horse but is only 3 years old (rising 4) and 17hh already. He was bred in Germany and is a hanoverian by Royal Blend (Rotspon), he also had Lauries Crusador and Akzent II in his breeding. He had been broken for just over a month but due to the snow I haven't been able to start work with him yet.
Hoping for a quiet Christmas and looking forward to an exciting 2010!
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
Vicky Smith's latest blog: A successful December!
Well so much for December being a quiet month! I seem to have been at shows every weekend. I took Guinness (Millhollow King of Kings) out to do some winter showjumping where he jumped 4 clear rounds and won a british novice class.
I then took my new coloured horse Indian King to his first show. The CHAPS Christmas show at South View. He came third and behaved extremely well and was very grown up. My mum was horrified when I bought a coloured horse but luckily the Deep clean shampoo and Arctic white liquid chalk worked a treat. Poor Bugsy had a bath and was then painted white! Im looking forward to getting him out again in the new year.
On Saturday the 13th December I took my old horse Misty to the final of the Oliver Townend Eventers challenge at Aintree. We had a great night with Misty finishing 4th. He behaved like an old pro as he hasn’t been to a show since he qualified in October!
On the Sunday I had a practice on Sunday at Badgeworth Arena in Somerset as I am riding the Connemara Johns Cuckoo at Olympia on Monday in the Baileys horse feeds mountain and moorland championship for my good friend Mathew Lawrence who produces him. I have only sat on Johnny twice so was delighted to win- fingers crossed for the final
All the horses are having a couple of weeks off now except Guiness who will have a days hunting on boxing day. I will post a full Olympia report in my next blog so best Christmas wishes to you all!
Katherine Begley's latest blog and some video footage to watch!
Since Belvedere has been back in work after his post event season holiday we have been concentrating on our show jumping. This is our weakest phase and is very hit and miss and so, as I am looking to go Intermediate next year, we felt it really needed some serious improvement.
We have been having regular lessons with Brian Smith, and he has revolutionised our canter and the way I ride, thus improving our show jumping beyond belief. When I first started having lessons with Brian, we kept it small and simple. Just concentrating on improving the canter and helping me to get Belvedere to the right take off point every time. Once we had begun to establish these basics we moved onto some special grid work, designed to make Belvedere become more elevated in his canter strides and not change his rhythm as he got close to the fence. In order to do this, we used two raised canter poles a stride apart, and then had an upright/spread at a one stride distance. Whilst doing this my confidence grew and my ability to get Belvedere to the right take off point time after time improved dramatically, therefore we have begun to train over bigger fences. I am currently regularly jumping 1m20 in my sessions with Brian, and have even tackled some short courses at 1m25-1m30. So far the training has been very encouraging, and I hope to compete is some BSJA Foxhunters/1m20’s soon, in order to prepare for the coming event season.
Here are some videos of recent training sessions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4vYsAUEUD0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXVjk2sy4kI
In between our show jumping I have enjoyed hunting Belvedere. He loves his hunting and if ever his career in Eventing doesn’t work out, our field master has bagsied him as her hunt horse. A few weeks ago the Horse and Hound came out with us and their report has just been published in this week’s Horse and Hound. On page 28 there is a lovely photograph of Dawn (the field master), myself and Kevin (Dawn’s husband) trotting along. I also received two small mentions in the report which was nice, one of these was as a ‘’young thrusters’’ for the NHH!!
Finally, just to add that my Weston Park JRN CCIJ* Championships Cross Country DVD arrived a few weeks ago, and it can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKv1bNY77bI
Furthermore, if you would like to follow my progress and keep up to date with what is happening, then please follow me on twitter http://twitter.com/KBEventing and visit my website www.katherinebegley.com
Oli Lawrence's latest blog: A driving lesson to forget!
So hopefully you’ve read my introduction and know who I am. I’ve been writing blogs on my website for a while now so you can read the whole history there. But, here’s the present – the latest blog...
"So this is Christmas and what have you done”.... Merry Christmas! For a change I thought I’d start with something a little bit non horse related – driving/learning! Well, my brother Ben was either brave or foolish in the extreme when he offered to come with me in the car when I ‘had a little play’.... Everything was going so well, I could break (and send both of us through the windscreen), accelerate and steer around the dog who seemed intent on telling the world to be afraid.... Then we (oh yes, the royal ‘we’!) decided to do some fancy reversing which was fine until I got near the hedge so, very calmly and cooly applied the break, then shot straight into the hedge.... there was one of those pauses, the silences that last for eternity with just the startled sheep running around. It couldn’t last as Ben burst out laughing and just wouldn’t stop... It ended up to be all fine, all that happened was a bit of dirt got violently scrubbed off the back of the car and I learnt not to have small excitable distractions named Ben sitting next to you..... of course we didn’t mention the car shaped hole in the hedge.
On the horse front it’s all go. Dell’s now in livery to give us access to a huge indoor school and he's getting the hang of what all weather gallops are for – fun, fun, fun... Plus, there’s some exciting developments going on with some new rides coming up – I’ll keep you posted. Last weekend we were off Christmas showjumping and Dell jumped a double clear in the Newcomers.
Dell’s also learning rather quickly that just because something looks a tad strange it doesn’t mean it will eat him. He’s recently been convinced that running water’s full of demons so reckons if he gives it at least 6 feet of air he’ll be safe – poor Dell, once he got used to streams we went and found a river... job done!
Don’t forget to check out the website for the latest blogs or just keep an eye on this page to follow the trials, challenges, success and just ‘some of those moments’ straight from the jockeys mouth!
"So this is Christmas and what have you done”.... Merry Christmas! For a change I thought I’d start with something a little bit non horse related – driving/learning! Well, my brother Ben was either brave or foolish in the extreme when he offered to come with me in the car when I ‘had a little play’.... Everything was going so well, I could break (and send both of us through the windscreen), accelerate and steer around the dog who seemed intent on telling the world to be afraid.... Then we (oh yes, the royal ‘we’!) decided to do some fancy reversing which was fine until I got near the hedge so, very calmly and cooly applied the break, then shot straight into the hedge.... there was one of those pauses, the silences that last for eternity with just the startled sheep running around. It couldn’t last as Ben burst out laughing and just wouldn’t stop... It ended up to be all fine, all that happened was a bit of dirt got violently scrubbed off the back of the car and I learnt not to have small excitable distractions named Ben sitting next to you..... of course we didn’t mention the car shaped hole in the hedge.
On the horse front it’s all go. Dell’s now in livery to give us access to a huge indoor school and he's getting the hang of what all weather gallops are for – fun, fun, fun... Plus, there’s some exciting developments going on with some new rides coming up – I’ll keep you posted. Last weekend we were off Christmas showjumping and Dell jumped a double clear in the Newcomers.
Dell’s also learning rather quickly that just because something looks a tad strange it doesn’t mean it will eat him. He’s recently been convinced that running water’s full of demons so reckons if he gives it at least 6 feet of air he’ll be safe – poor Dell, once he got used to streams we went and found a river... job done!
Don’t forget to check out the website for the latest blogs or just keep an eye on this page to follow the trials, challenges, success and just ‘some of those moments’ straight from the jockeys mouth!
Josh Thompson's first blog
Hello and welcome to my blog! My name is Josh Thompson, and I am in my final year at Sedbergh School. I’m based in Cumbria, where I have two horses to event. Horses have always been my passion, and at the moment I plan to combine eventing with my studies, but ideally I would love to do horses full time.
After three disrupted seasons, due to cancellations and horse injuries I am now finally where I want to be with my riding. I finished 2009 with a completion at Weston Park 1*, I had been aiming to do a CCI for the past year, so it was great to finally do it. That was with the great little Shannagarry, who saved the season for me. He is on lease until the end of next year and I hope to be competitive at Intermediate with him in 2010.
My other horse is the quirky but talented Viander. We bought 'Duncan' in March, but he sadly threw a splint just days before his first event in April, and did not compete until August. We spent the few events we did getting to know each other, he is a clever horse, and he knows that BE100 is too small for him, hence his laziness, however once the jumps go up he gives them miles! His dressage has been very difficult this year, he has beautiful paces but an attitude to match, with has resulted in some horrendous scores! However, after a short beak at the end of the season he has come back better than ever and I really cannot wait until next year!
November has been a quiet month, as I have been concentrating on school work. Duncan has improved masses in his flatwok, and his lateral work has come on no end. I am now home for Christmas, and have spent the last few days clipping and generally sorting the yard out. 'Shannah' is now walking out daily, buliding up his fitness over the next few weeks after his post-season holiday. Duncan is hopefully starting to jump again this week, which I am really looking forward to. I need to get registered fir BSJA, BE and BD and get competing in preparation for next seasons eventing!
Until the next time all that is left to say is Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Friday, 11 December 2009
Craig Barr's blog: From Thailand back to reality!
Hello and welcome to my first blog. My name is Craig Barr, I am a 22 year old event rider from Cheshire. I am based on Somerford Park with Andrew Heffernan, I have been working for Andy for over five years now as his head groom and one of his second riders. I have been Eventing for many years now but have never made it past Novice level due to horses going lame at the wrong time but I hope to correct that with my new ride for 2010, the 9yo Kilkee who I hope to been doing well with round intermediates and 2 stars at before the end of the season.
So December has started and I have just started back on the yard after an amazing month travelling around Thailand with my girl friend and fellow event rider Sarah Stretton and fellow eventers and good friends Ben Hobday, James Sommerville, Max Gordon, Georgie Spence, Rose Bridgwood, Faith Cook and show jumper Tom Davison. Possibly one of the best times of my life.
But for the last week it’s been back to the British winter and reality. The yard is busier than ever this year, we have sixteen horses in at the moment and just to keep me going when ever I go down to see Sarah on my day off she drags me to her yard to ride her horses, so its all go at the moment. Kilkee is back on the yard after been kept in light work while I was away by one of the girls I work with. He has been going well and will be heading out for his first pre-season show jumping show next week. I will be hoping to get out to a lot of winter dressage and show jumping so me an Kilkee can come out fit and flying next season.
So until next time I wish u all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy (and hopefully not too blurry) New Year!
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Kelly Dickson's blog: Water Trays are not our friends!
It was quite a mixed month. Having qualified for the Amateur and Blue Chip Championships early on, my plans went out of the window. So I spent the best part of October working extra hours including weekend night shifts, which isn't the best thing that can happen if your trying to keep a horse fit. We are still looking around trying to relocate as my partner's work commitments means we have to move, but at least we will stay put until after Christmas. So a busy time outside of competing.
I took Charlie off to Addington on the 7th November. Not our best day. He was rather lively and fresh as he didn't go anywhere for a few weeks, he decided he knew better and while showing off, missed the fact that there were fences. So had a few stops in the Discovery and 1.10m Open.
As we were booked in to go to the Amateur Championships on the 26th November, I thought I'd better take him jumping again after the awful day at Addington. I took the 18th off work and went down to the Hand. A much better day resulting in an 8th place in the Discovery and our 3rd double clear and another double clear in the 1.05m Open.
Next stop the Amateurs. Set off the day before the show and got to Aintree in quite good time taking me about 4 1/2 hours. The first day went quite well with a clear in the warm up class, and a stop at the water tray in the 1m qualifier after a bit of a pile up in the practice ring. Day 2 wasn't our day. I think the pile up on the first day had shaken Charlie up a bit and again we had a disagreement at the water tray. So we came home a day early not having made it to the final, but it was a great experience and as he doesn't stay over at shows very often, it did Charlie good to get used to the atmosphere. Before we left we had a great time using the gallops next to the race course.
So getting all the thermals out now ready for the frosts and trying to fit in Christmas shopping. Oh and I need to find time to make and practice over a water tray. Merry Christmas to you all and a Happy New Year.
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
Roma Oakes: A new partnership starts on the right foot
This is my first ‘blog’ ever so here goes. My horse Retina is very lame and the vet says that she won’t return to a high level of dressage again so that is very sad. She will winter out and then we will decide what to do. However – the good news is that I have a new horse! He is called Patch Mills Bakers Bridge – Baker for short and is a 16hh 7year old bay gelding of undetermined breeding! He is Irish bred though. He hasn’t done much of anything – just a bit of show-jumping and was for sale as his owner wanted to event but he just wasn’t fast enough to avoid time penalties.
He was owned by a friend of my trainer so she knew that he could be a good dressage horse and when I first saw him I was very impressed with his activity behind. So he was vetted and passed with no issues at all –hurray and he came to the yard on Monday 23rd Nov.
Now – I know that it is not the best idea to immediately take a horse that hasn’t really done any dressage to a show just a few days after buying him and having ridden him only four times.........but we went to a local show (just round the corner) on the Sunday. I had a lesson on the Friday when we worked on slowing his trot and getting him to concentrate. I just entered a couple of preliminary classes and it was blowing a gale. The first test was outside and he was a bit spooky at some of the tapes blowing about. The second test, Prelim 14, was indoors with a scary roll door but he was more settled and we really had just one mishap when he tripped coming down from canter to trot – so literally ‘fell into trot’. We took him back to his stable and then drove round to collect my score sheets. I nearly fell down in a heap – he got 61.5% in the first test and 69.17% in the second – and 3rd place! Both judges thought he was a fab horse with great paces and one described him as a big horse with a big trot to control – so he must look a lot bigger than just 16hh when in the arena.
So now we will not do any shows until after Christmas and just work at home on developing our partnership but it was a great start and I hope that I’ll get some photos of him soon, he’s quite a cheeky chap but I think that he has a lot of talent. That’s all for now.
He was owned by a friend of my trainer so she knew that he could be a good dressage horse and when I first saw him I was very impressed with his activity behind. So he was vetted and passed with no issues at all –hurray and he came to the yard on Monday 23rd Nov.
Now – I know that it is not the best idea to immediately take a horse that hasn’t really done any dressage to a show just a few days after buying him and having ridden him only four times.........but we went to a local show (just round the corner) on the Sunday. I had a lesson on the Friday when we worked on slowing his trot and getting him to concentrate. I just entered a couple of preliminary classes and it was blowing a gale. The first test was outside and he was a bit spooky at some of the tapes blowing about. The second test, Prelim 14, was indoors with a scary roll door but he was more settled and we really had just one mishap when he tripped coming down from canter to trot – so literally ‘fell into trot’. We took him back to his stable and then drove round to collect my score sheets. I nearly fell down in a heap – he got 61.5% in the first test and 69.17% in the second – and 3rd place! Both judges thought he was a fab horse with great paces and one described him as a big horse with a big trot to control – so he must look a lot bigger than just 16hh when in the arena.
So now we will not do any shows until after Christmas and just work at home on developing our partnership but it was a great start and I hope that I’ll get some photos of him soon, he’s quite a cheeky chap but I think that he has a lot of talent. That’s all for now.
Janice Pegler: A quiet month
Well what can I tell you its been a very quiet month really i had planned to do some show jumping but due to the bad weather on the days I was going to go we decided not to bother as the venues were outside! So I have spent a lot of time working on our dressage and have been teaching Serenity new things like walk to canter and we have started to try halfpass now which she actually finds fairly easy so far!
But having a quiet time has actually given me time to concentrate on Amat my partners young horse that was very difficult when he first came over a year ago but he has come on in leaps and bounds the last year and we went over to my instructors for his first lesson away from home and he was a little star. He also got to go hunting with my partner at which he was very well behaved so we are hoping he will continue to do well and I will be able to event him along side Serenity next year.
I have now entered some dressage at the end of December and have deceided that me and Serenity will have our first go at an elementary!!! So fingers crossed all goes well and the weather is kind to us, i think we are all well and truly fed up of all this rain!!
But having a quiet time has actually given me time to concentrate on Amat my partners young horse that was very difficult when he first came over a year ago but he has come on in leaps and bounds the last year and we went over to my instructors for his first lesson away from home and he was a little star. He also got to go hunting with my partner at which he was very well behaved so we are hoping he will continue to do well and I will be able to event him along side Serenity next year.
I have now entered some dressage at the end of December and have deceided that me and Serenity will have our first go at an elementary!!! So fingers crossed all goes well and the weather is kind to us, i think we are all well and truly fed up of all this rain!!
Ann Hartley: Things don't always go to plan!
Two months ago November looked very busy on the competition front, but due to unforseen circumstances it turned out to be quite the opposite. Initially, there were plans B, C and D but not meant to be.
The yard is run very much on a family orientated basis and everyone does their bit for smooth running. Mother (Paula) has been on the sidelines due to recent spinal surgery and much to her annoyance is not allowed to do many things which includes driving the wagon. Paula is our chief driver thus for now competitions are having to wait for horses based at home. Fingers crossed on 28th December it will be all systems go again.
I am very lucky enough to have great support from all areas ie. family, owners, friends, neighbours and work (Craven College). Without this support things would be very different and nearing on impossible.
At the back end of October Patrick Print was in the area thus quickly had three horses booked in with him at Craven College. These were Piqurant, Black Jet and Mister Pickwick. All three sessions were fantastic, very constructive and given plenty of things to work on. Hopefully there will be more training sessions to look forward to in the new year.
All the horses are ticking over nicely, working well with that bit of room for improvement. Summer Party in particular is on good form, which is good to see as he is at the Nationals next year. Mister Pickwick whom is based with his owner Helen is scheduled to compete 12th and 20th of this month. The youngsters which were backed this summer are coming along nicely and showing much potential. It won't be long before they will be having their first party outing.
This year has gone so fast, the results have been amazing, just about kept in one piece all thanks to a fab physio. Come to think of it, everything was at a stand still this time last year due to injury. Let's hope next year continues in the same direction this year is finishing in .....
The yard is run very much on a family orientated basis and everyone does their bit for smooth running. Mother (Paula) has been on the sidelines due to recent spinal surgery and much to her annoyance is not allowed to do many things which includes driving the wagon. Paula is our chief driver thus for now competitions are having to wait for horses based at home. Fingers crossed on 28th December it will be all systems go again.
I am very lucky enough to have great support from all areas ie. family, owners, friends, neighbours and work (Craven College). Without this support things would be very different and nearing on impossible.
At the back end of October Patrick Print was in the area thus quickly had three horses booked in with him at Craven College. These were Piqurant, Black Jet and Mister Pickwick. All three sessions were fantastic, very constructive and given plenty of things to work on. Hopefully there will be more training sessions to look forward to in the new year.
All the horses are ticking over nicely, working well with that bit of room for improvement. Summer Party in particular is on good form, which is good to see as he is at the Nationals next year. Mister Pickwick whom is based with his owner Helen is scheduled to compete 12th and 20th of this month. The youngsters which were backed this summer are coming along nicely and showing much potential. It won't be long before they will be having their first party outing.
This year has gone so fast, the results have been amazing, just about kept in one piece all thanks to a fab physio. Come to think of it, everything was at a stand still this time last year due to injury. Let's hope next year continues in the same direction this year is finishing in .....
Sarah Jane Brown's latest blog update
November has been a quiet month for me, a good job really considering the endless rain that we have experienced. I was musing during my umpteenth drenching how we can get man to moon, design computers that will virtually run the world yet we are yet to design a riding coat that is truly waterproof!
I am still looking for a second horse, the adverts that catch my eye all seem to involve horses well beyond my budget and those within seem not quite to suit for one reason or another. Saying that I have found a little TB I rather like and have purchased it subject to vet but typically a few days before the vetting he had a abscess which has delayed matters somewhat. Hopefully I can update you next month on the new project or you never know I may be looking again.
Sarnie is now back in full work after her holiday although I am struggling to do too much with her at the moment with weather and work issues (too much of it!). We have been out and done a BSJA show where a rusty pole in the jump off meant we just missed out on a good placing. Our dressage outing was in a monsoon but despite this she managed a reasonable 64% at Elementary. I am trying to tackle the dressage and have a clinic with Pammy and Charlie Hutton in December and I am travelling up to Talland for 3 days in January which should be good. Also trying to get a few competitions in at Summerhouse while I am that way may try our first Advanced Medium dressage and do some BSJA.
There was a first for Sarnie this month when the local hunt met at the yard and she was allowed out to play for a while before you guessed it the next torrential downpour arrived. It was a quiet day but she seemed to enjoy herself.
Wishing all Organic Horse supporters and users a very Merry Christmas.
I have a website so if anyone is interested in knowing more about me or my horses and for regular updates please go to www.shoestringeventing.co.uk
I am still looking for a second horse, the adverts that catch my eye all seem to involve horses well beyond my budget and those within seem not quite to suit for one reason or another. Saying that I have found a little TB I rather like and have purchased it subject to vet but typically a few days before the vetting he had a abscess which has delayed matters somewhat. Hopefully I can update you next month on the new project or you never know I may be looking again.
Sarnie is now back in full work after her holiday although I am struggling to do too much with her at the moment with weather and work issues (too much of it!). We have been out and done a BSJA show where a rusty pole in the jump off meant we just missed out on a good placing. Our dressage outing was in a monsoon but despite this she managed a reasonable 64% at Elementary. I am trying to tackle the dressage and have a clinic with Pammy and Charlie Hutton in December and I am travelling up to Talland for 3 days in January which should be good. Also trying to get a few competitions in at Summerhouse while I am that way may try our first Advanced Medium dressage and do some BSJA.
There was a first for Sarnie this month when the local hunt met at the yard and she was allowed out to play for a while before you guessed it the next torrential downpour arrived. It was a quiet day but she seemed to enjoy herself.
Wishing all Organic Horse supporters and users a very Merry Christmas.
I have a website so if anyone is interested in knowing more about me or my horses and for regular updates please go to www.shoestringeventing.co.uk
Friday, 4 December 2009
Georgina Rose's blog update
This month I have been busy trying to get the horses to settle into their winter routine, and they are none to pleased what with the stresses of firework night (night being the operative word, it seems to go on for weeks!) and the wet and windy weather that seems to be taking a firm hold, its tricky to get a chance to get them to buckle down and do some work! I had my jumping mare, Penny, clipped for the first time this month;- she wasnt best pleased, but miraculously the lady clipping her still managed to produce a neat tidy clip, so full credit to her!
I had planned to do a couple of showjumping shows this month, but sadly all were rained off, so feeling frustrated at having to miss those few qualifiers. Theres still plenty of opportunities though what with Christmas shows coming up, so role on December and hopefully some drier weather.
I had planned to do a couple of showjumping shows this month, but sadly all were rained off, so feeling frustrated at having to miss those few qualifiers. Theres still plenty of opportunities though what with Christmas shows coming up, so role on December and hopefully some drier weather.
Penny is currently looking great on Gut Power and some basic feed, she seems to be using the feed much better this year and she feels great to ride, so Organic Horse's supplement seems to be doing the trick. My other horse, Merlins Magic, is on Respiratory Power and Joint Power, and he definatley appears looser in his movement and not quite so stiff and awkward, so full marks to Organic Horse!
Al, our little 3yo is still not getting hard feed, he is just unbelievably hardy! Although Im obviously pleased he's doing so well, I'm a little concerned that come spring he might be prone to laminitus- perhaps I should give Laminis Power a go? He continues to amaze me, this month I've ridden him in wind and rain and he hasnt batted an eyelid! I'd sooner ride him in that than my older horses. you just cant phase him.
This month I also passed my Riding and Road Safety Test! One step closer...My BHS stage 1 is up next, so wish me luck! Looking forward to Dec which looks busy on the calandar, what with Xmas shows (I've promised my friend I will commit myself to a festive fancy dress SJ pairs! ), more exams/training, a fun ride on the Quantocks and somewhere in between some christmas shopping!
Jemma Harrison's blog update
These past couple of months have been quiet as our local BSJA finished in September and doesnt start again until early March. Last weekend Piquet and I had a Pony Club One Day Event which consisted of dressage and showjumping and the cross country got postpond due to the weather so hopefully it will take place soon!
It was at an indoor arena and it was Piquets first time in there. After the dressage we were placed in 3rd place and after the jumping we moved up to 2nd. Hopefully we will be able to do the cross country in a couple of weeks.
We have also been having constant lessons to help improve and prepare from next season. Seeing that I have only had Piquet for 4 months he is being a star and I hope that he continues to keep impressing us!
It was at an indoor arena and it was Piquets first time in there. After the dressage we were placed in 3rd place and after the jumping we moved up to 2nd. Hopefully we will be able to do the cross country in a couple of weeks.
We have also been having constant lessons to help improve and prepare from next season. Seeing that I have only had Piquet for 4 months he is being a star and I hope that he continues to keep impressing us!
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
An exciting month on Roger Gregory's yard!
It's been an exciting month here, as Crumble is up for sale, Carl Hester had an American Lady visiting him who was interested to see Crumble, not sure that she was the right horse for her client.
The following week I was back at Carl's again with Pan & Goddy for training, with Pan we continued to work on his throughness (getting his neck down and taking the contact forward). He was much more settled this time and did more work on his changes and piaffe, which is coming on really well.
Goddy we continued to develop the "quickness" behind to cope with his huge movement. Also worked on his lateral work and changes, glad to say he is much sharper now - even getting spooked by the gardener sweeping just outside the indoor school!
Also bought a new addition "Nuts" 17 hh 12 year old gelding who I trained to advanced medium. He's been away on loan and since his previous owner Justine got him back she has realised that a hip injury makes it too uncomfortable to ride him herself, so she has been kind enough to offer him to me. He's settled in well and is back in training....watch this space.....
I took Crumble out on Sunday to compete in the Grand Prix at Manor Farm and despite some mistakes from her jockey!!!.. I am pleased to report that she won the class.....what a little star !!!
The latest news from Abby Steel
I took Pinky to her first show last weekend; in her first class (80cms) she got a double clear and came 3rd and in her second (90cms) she got another double clear and came second. Which we are really pleased about!! We are planning to keep her at this level for a couple of weeks to make sure she is comfortable and to just get her experience of going to different places and jumping different courses.
Last thursday i took Lilly along to a BSJA academy training at Weston Equestrian Centre with Tamsin Conyers where she behaved very well and jumped everything which was put in front of her! I learnt a lot of things about how to get round a bigger course sucessfully. I am taking her to Lime Kiln Equestrian centre this saturday to compete her in her first newcomers which is about 1.10cm - 1.15cm so fingers crossed also we are competing at Forest Edge's pre Olympia show next Thursday and doing the Discovery class and Newcomers and hopefully we will qualify through to Saturdays championships!!.
Last thursday i took Lilly along to a BSJA academy training at Weston Equestrian Centre with Tamsin Conyers where she behaved very well and jumped everything which was put in front of her! I learnt a lot of things about how to get round a bigger course sucessfully. I am taking her to Lime Kiln Equestrian centre this saturday to compete her in her first newcomers which is about 1.10cm - 1.15cm so fingers crossed also we are competing at Forest Edge's pre Olympia show next Thursday and doing the Discovery class and Newcomers and hopefully we will qualify through to Saturdays championships!!.
Monday, 23 November 2009
Anna Bailey's first blog!
Let me introduce myself, I'm Anna Bailey and I'm based in Tidebrook which is between Wadhurst and Mayfield in East Sussex. I teach, break and school horses as well as event my own horses and a few for owners throughout the season.
For me, riding was inevitable as my mum always had horses and my Stepfather was a Master of the New Forest Fox Hounds. Hunting as a child was a great way to learn to be gutsy and, most importantly, stay on!
Having joined the New Forest Pony Club at a very early age, I took part in most activities. It was here I developed an interest in show jumping after taking part in unaffiliated shows then progressing to International JA level with 148cm ponies. After finishing on ponies I went to Bedgebury School to study A levels and completed my BHSAI.
Teaching has become a huge part of my every day life and I train all levels from beginners to competition riders. For me the most satisfying part of teaching is seeing the riders improve. I am currently working towards becoming a BE Accredited trainer, something I am very excited about.
I switched to Eventing in 2004 with a horse I was show jumping. I fancied a change and have never looked back. In fact last year I produced two of my own horses up to Novice level with the aim of competing in a CIC* in the summer and hopefully a CIC** by the end of the season.
The horse in the picture had never seen a cross country fence until last summer. He had show jumped in Holland and did not understand the concept of dressage but he is so brave and tries so hard I had to give him a chance! His first event was at Stratford Hills last June and after a very tense dressage test, but staying in the arena, he went on to have just one down in the show jumping and then cleared every fence on the cross country like it was a Grand National hedge! And I wondered why I got time faults!
We had a mixed season but he showed improvement in all three phases as the year went on. He finished this season with the 1* at South Of England. There's still plenty of room for improvement so watch this space. Next season I hope to run him in a few more 1*s before trying a 2* at the end of the summer.
I have a lovely four year old who will make his eventing debut next summer. He looks just like Timmy but a slightly bigger frame – lets hope I get the right one out of the field for the 2*!! I will keep you updated with his progress.
I am also very lucky to be competing a few horses for Johanna Hedberg at Angley Stud. Cairo Z is a 5 year old stunning warmblood who after a winter of show jumping and dressage will make his eventing debut in March. I will keep you posted on the other horses when they are back in work!
Until next time
Anna
Things happen in three's - Jo Barry's latest blog instalment
Things happen in 3's, so I hope I have now had my three bad journeys!? The first was the burst tyre on the way home from Gloucestershire. The second was on the way home from Coventry on Wednesday. I was down in Coventry to receive my share of the Pat Smallwood Award at the BHS Convention. This is the last year that it is to be awarded and I feel very lucky to be one of the recipients. As a winner I received a cheque that is to be used to further my own training and knowledge to in turn pass on to my pupils..I am looking forward to making the most of this money. The journey home was slow due to the bad weather but was made worse when there was a bad accident on the M74 and the motorway had to be closed..the only option was to sit and wait for it to reopen. The journey ended up being 2hrs longer than on the way down.
On Thursday afternoon I headed up to Invergordon, near Inverness. I had an evenings teaching booked, followed by a full day on Friday. I take the train up for ease of travel and it is actually more cost efficient too. I had a two part journey with a connection at Perth. The first train was running late due to the heavy rain and flooding and I arrived in Perth 10 minutes after my onwards connection had left. The option given was to wait 2hrs and get the next train but if I did that I would not have been able to give any lessons that night. If I rushed through town (Challenge Anneka style!?) to the bus station I could get a bus and still manage to teach half of the lessons that had been booked. So the 'Challenge' began helped by a very friendly lady who took me under her wing and pointed me in the right direction..and eventually the destination of Inverness was reached! Even though the Friday's teaching is a long day, I do enjoy teaching up at Coillemore. The riders are really keen, they have lovely horses and I get very well looked after..perhaps even spoilt with home-made soup and sandwiches. Home late Friday night and prepared for Rafa's competition the next day..
Rafa was a bit ring rusty as he has not been out for a few months. He finds the tests in the small arena quite difficult, I often find he shrinks back at me when faced by a 20x40m arena test. Considering how wobbly we were I was very pleased with two wins and marks of 70.2% and 72.6%. He has now qualified for the Novice Open Winter Semi-final in addition to the Novice Freestyle.
Hoping the weather starts to settle and we get some frost, I hate muddy horses and wet fields.
On Thursday afternoon I headed up to Invergordon, near Inverness. I had an evenings teaching booked, followed by a full day on Friday. I take the train up for ease of travel and it is actually more cost efficient too. I had a two part journey with a connection at Perth. The first train was running late due to the heavy rain and flooding and I arrived in Perth 10 minutes after my onwards connection had left. The option given was to wait 2hrs and get the next train but if I did that I would not have been able to give any lessons that night. If I rushed through town (Challenge Anneka style!?) to the bus station I could get a bus and still manage to teach half of the lessons that had been booked. So the 'Challenge' began helped by a very friendly lady who took me under her wing and pointed me in the right direction..and eventually the destination of Inverness was reached! Even though the Friday's teaching is a long day, I do enjoy teaching up at Coillemore. The riders are really keen, they have lovely horses and I get very well looked after..perhaps even spoilt with home-made soup and sandwiches. Home late Friday night and prepared for Rafa's competition the next day..
Rafa was a bit ring rusty as he has not been out for a few months. He finds the tests in the small arena quite difficult, I often find he shrinks back at me when faced by a 20x40m arena test. Considering how wobbly we were I was very pleased with two wins and marks of 70.2% and 72.6%. He has now qualified for the Novice Open Winter Semi-final in addition to the Novice Freestyle.
Hoping the weather starts to settle and we get some frost, I hate muddy horses and wet fields.
Friday, 20 November 2009
The event season is over but Sam Penn is still picking up prizes!
Organic Horse Elite Squad member, Sam Penn, has once again been awarded an impressive collection of prizes at the annual South East Eventers League ball. Over the 2009 season Sam has had many successes riding her string of talented horses, and partnered with 15 year old ex racehorse, 707, managed to scoop first place in the Net-Tex Intermediate Rankings, first place in the Racehorse Sanctuary Racehorse to Event Horse award and in the overall South East Eventers League rankings she came joint third with Francis Whittington – closely behind the winner, Tina Cook with Miners Frolic.
As well as rugs, rosettes and prize money, Sam collected a selection of prizes from sponsors Net-Tex and the Racehorse Sanctuary. “I am over the moon to have won three such important awards,” says Sam. “707 has only been with me for one season but our partnership is exceptional. I would like to thank all my sponsors and owners for their loyal support over the season and am looking forward to what I hope will be a successful 2010.”
Monday, 16 November 2009
Jo Barry's blog: Lessons with Carl Hester and burning the candle at both ends!
Freddie and I had a great time away training with Carl last week. We had a smooth journey down with it taking just under 8 hours. Freddie settled much quicker this time as it was his third visit and I found him stretched out sleeping when I went to give him his breakfast on Monday morning. We had four lessons while we were down, concentrating mainly on teaching the flying changes, acceptance in the transitions between extension and collection and the startings of piaffe. Carl had me riding with a lot more power and determination.
I left realising that I have to take a risk and allow mistakes to happen so that we can learn and improve. For someone like me that is really hard as I hate not getting it perfect! I have been given lots of exercises to use at home for the changes and Carl has given me the confidence to have a go and practice. Highlights were when we managed a correct flying change on the long side from true to counter canter, doing our first steps of piaffe assisted by Carl from the ground and then seeing Carl ride Freddie on the last day. It was the first time Carl has sat on him and Freddie got 'the nod' from the master!
While I was down I was really pleased to still be allowed to ride some of Carl's horses. I also helped out on the yard and was driver for one of Carl's working pupils when she had a competition at Burrows Court. I also met up with old friends and had some lovely evenings over a bottle or two of wine. The only yard trauma while I was down was when Snowie, Carl's parrot escaped up into the trees! She spent 24hrs 'in the wild' and eventually was coaxed down by 'daddy' -returning to her cage looking very sheepish. I think Carl may have been the only one glad of her return... she is known to be the pitbull of Carl's menagerie!
The journey home was not quite so smooth. In rush hour traffic on the M6 I had a blow-out. Luckily it was sorted on the motorway and Freddie and I continued on our way, it just meant it took 10.5hrs to get home. Freddie was very happy to get back to his own bed and have a few days off. However, I think Rafa would have been happier if I had stayed away -I have come back with 'Carl-ified' riding and he has had his socks pulled right up!! This week is pretty hectic... Freddie has the physio on Monday, farrier on Tuesday. I head down to Coventry on Tuesday night to receive the Pat Smallwood award at the BHS Convention on Wednesday and come home that night... I then go up to Inverness (3 hours by train) to teach on Thursday evening and all day Friday before taking Rafa to a competition at the weekend..and also somehow going to the British Eventing Scottish Ball on the Saturday night!! Possibly burning the candle at both ends..??!
I left realising that I have to take a risk and allow mistakes to happen so that we can learn and improve. For someone like me that is really hard as I hate not getting it perfect! I have been given lots of exercises to use at home for the changes and Carl has given me the confidence to have a go and practice. Highlights were when we managed a correct flying change on the long side from true to counter canter, doing our first steps of piaffe assisted by Carl from the ground and then seeing Carl ride Freddie on the last day. It was the first time Carl has sat on him and Freddie got 'the nod' from the master!
While I was down I was really pleased to still be allowed to ride some of Carl's horses. I also helped out on the yard and was driver for one of Carl's working pupils when she had a competition at Burrows Court. I also met up with old friends and had some lovely evenings over a bottle or two of wine. The only yard trauma while I was down was when Snowie, Carl's parrot escaped up into the trees! She spent 24hrs 'in the wild' and eventually was coaxed down by 'daddy' -returning to her cage looking very sheepish. I think Carl may have been the only one glad of her return... she is known to be the pitbull of Carl's menagerie!
The journey home was not quite so smooth. In rush hour traffic on the M6 I had a blow-out. Luckily it was sorted on the motorway and Freddie and I continued on our way, it just meant it took 10.5hrs to get home. Freddie was very happy to get back to his own bed and have a few days off. However, I think Rafa would have been happier if I had stayed away -I have come back with 'Carl-ified' riding and he has had his socks pulled right up!! This week is pretty hectic... Freddie has the physio on Monday, farrier on Tuesday. I head down to Coventry on Tuesday night to receive the Pat Smallwood award at the BHS Convention on Wednesday and come home that night... I then go up to Inverness (3 hours by train) to teach on Thursday evening and all day Friday before taking Rafa to a competition at the weekend..and also somehow going to the British Eventing Scottish Ball on the Saturday night!! Possibly burning the candle at both ends..??!
Friday, 13 November 2009
Meet Organic Horse Start Squad member Katherine Begley
Katherine Begley has on horse currently registered with British Eventing, a 16.3hh chestnut Gelding called Bourne Belvedere. The pair are currently competing at novice and CCI* level and in the 2009 season were placed 4th at Kelsall JRN , 1st at Goring Heath JON, 11th at Chatsworth Intermediate Novice and were selected to represent Wales & Borders at the JRN Championships at Weston Park, where they were clear inside the time XC. Katherine has also competed at the Pony Club Championships in 2007 and 2008. Her aims with Belvedere for 2010 are to compete in a CCI* abroad and to progress up to intermediate level in the spring with the hope of doing a CIC** at the end of the year. She also rides two other horses, Irish Rose and Cloons Master Plan, and events them at unaffiliated events, where they have been very successful. Rosie was placed at all of her events in 2009. Unfortunately they do not have the funds to affiliate all three, but have done a few events with them on day tickets with BE.
Why horses? “I have been around them all my life (my mother used to event) so it was a natural progression. Also because I love creating that bond with a horse, and that amazing feeling when it all comes together.’’
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People who are rude and impatient with event organisers at the end of a very long day."
Worst horsey habit? "De-scabbing my horses, I want them to be perfect. Scabs and flaky skin isn’t allowed!!!’’
If not horses what? "As a hobby I love mountaineering, mountain biking and skiing. But as a career, I have no idea!’’
What could you not live without? "My mum, who drives me all over the country to my events, and always supports me now matter how angry and upset I get’’
If you want to find out more visit www.katherinebegley.com
Meet Organic Horse Start Squad member Kat Poundsbery
Kat Poundsbery rides Pella, a 10 year old German warmblood Darco/Pilot lines, and is currently competing at Elementary/Medium level Dressage! She has so far competed on the Senior inter regional squad in 2008 and qualified for the Pet-plan Area Festivals in 08 and 09 at novice and elementary.
This year things have been put on hold slightly as Kat has started her own yard but has still been out and done some riding club shows including Sevenoaks Riding Club - won the novice with 71.5% and qualified for their champs, Hadlow Riding Club - won the elementary with 66.2% and the novice with 65% and qualified for their champs. Short term she is hoping to qualify for the regional championships at Novice and Elementary. Long term she wants to crack on with the medium work and start some work on Pella's changes ready to go up a level next year!
Why horses? "Have been riding since I was little but didnt get into dressage until 5 years ago, I love horses they are beautiful and powerful creatures, they will teach you patience and respect and in return give you a partnership for life!! I love Dressage as its all about athletics, suppleness, balance and bio-mechanics!!"
Biggest horsey bug bear "Riders that blame the horse when something goes wrong! Its very rarely the horses fault!"
Worst Horsey habit "Forgetting to do kick bolts on my mares door!! Then she opens it and does a runner!!!"
If not horses, what? "I think it would still be horsey involved!! Maybe with a feed company or something but I cant really imagine not doing horses!!!"
What could you not live without? "Oats!!!! My horses require alot of energy and good weight and oats tick all the boxes for me!!"
Monday, 9 November 2009
Meet Elite Squad member Sam Penn
Sam Penn rides a string of horses from her base, Golden Cross Equestrian Centre in West Sussex...Tickeridge,(Tigga) 4yo bay geld, 16.2, by Royal Brooke Cruise (IDSH), winner Lycetts BE 4yo championships '09.
Captain Christy, (Smurf) 18yo bay geld, 16.3, by Cavalier Royale (Holsteiner), Former Team GB ride for Tina Cooke, had operation for Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) in '09, aiming to be back out Advanced and 3* level '10.
707, (Brooke) 15yo bay geld, 16.2, by Skyliner (TB). Ex racehorse, won SEEL Intermediate and Retraining of Racehorses leagues in '09, plus 3rd in Overall Leading Horse/Rider league. Moving up to Advanced and hopefully 3* in '10.
Coco de Cara, (Coconut) 8yo grey geld, 16.2, by Terimon (TB). Winner Aldon Open Pre-Nov 3DE '09, qualified BD National Championships (Restricted Elementary) '08/'09.
My Friend Freddie, (Fred) 14yo black geld, 17.0, by Carmel Head (TB). Consistantly placed IN, moving up to Intermediate '10.
Coevers Diamond Clover, (Flynn) 5yo bay geld, 15.2, by Coevers Diamond Boy (IDSH). Consistently placed pre-nov, placed in 1st novice, qualified Lycetts BE 5yo champs '09.
Dyke Road, (Bobby), 4yo bay geld, 15.2, by Cult Hero (TB), recently broken, an exciting prospect for 5yo qualifiers next year.
Pusiden, (Sid), 3yo bay geld, 15.3, by Puissance (ISH), recently broken, another one to watch in 2010.
Greatest Achievements so far...
2009. 1st Lycetts BE 4yo Championship -Tickeridge. 1st SEEL Intermediate and ROR leagues. 3rd Leading Horse&Rider league -707. Winner ROR award BD National Dressage Champs -Coco de Cara
2008. Ist SEEL Pre Nov league-Coco de Cara. Winner ROR award BD National Dressage Champs- Coco de Cara.
2007. 1st PAVO BE 5yo Championship- Pokeys Bally Milo. 9th BE Festival Novice Championships-On A Par. 8th Houghton Hall 1*- On A Par.
Sam is aiming in 2010 to compete at 3* with the older horses and get all her youngsters back to their respective age championships. Longer term she wants to be part of Team GB.
Why horses? "All I ever wanted to do was ride, originally I wanted to showjump but never quite made it, moved into eventing aged 22 and got a break working at Golden Cross."
Horsey bug bear "Poor turnout, it costs nothing to be neat, clean, correct (NO PINK/GLITTER) and tidy."
My worst horsey habit "Hmm, awaiting reply from the boss on that one!"
If not horses, what? "Dont really know much about anything else, but would be something sporting/a bit mad, always fancied being a stunt artist for tv or would have seriously considered joining the army."
What could you not live without? "Haribo Tangfastics and Cadbury's Creme Eggs. Horsey-wise white-n-brite shampoo and Kym and Karla our grooms."
If you want to find out more about Sam visit: www.sampenn.co.uk
Check out the latest gossip from sponsored rider and Elite Squad member Jo Barry
This time next week I will be midway through my mini training break at Carl Hester's. I travel down on Sunday and then spend four days there having lessons. I have been introducing Freddie to flying changes and some half-steps so that it is not such a big shock to him when Carl asks us to try some next week. I am going to smuggle a heater and extension cable into the lorry so that I can keep warm at night as I am not looking forward to sleeping in my lorry in November!! I'm hoping to meet up with friends on a couple of the nights for pub dinners so it will not all be work related!
Freddie luckily hardly grows a coat but he has had his first and hopefully only clip of the year in preparation for going down to see Carl. He is now wrapped up snug, but the weather has been so mild that it is a juggle between rugs each night as to what will make him most comfortable.
Rafa (Rameau), my 5yo gelding is just back into work after a couple of months off. He has come back feeling bright and quite excited to be back doing something. I really don't think they enjoy having an extended period of time off..a week is a novelty but longer and they get bored and fed-up. If things go well I hope we may make the last Novice Winter qualifier at the end of November. He has already qualified for the Novice Freestyle and it would be good to get the Novice Open class too.
With Bonfire night fast approaching our neighbours have announced that they are having a bonfire and will set off a few 'small' fireworks..time to shut the boys outside windows and turn the radio up! Forest Farmacy have sent me some 'Soothing Animal Solution' to help calm their nerves and make it less scary for them..maybe I should have a few drops myself!?
Finally my website has gone 'live' and that should help with business.. www.jobarryequestrian.co.uk
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Catch up with squad members Kayleigh Grant and Tex
The last two months have been really quiet for us, as I had a back operation at the end of September. So I made the decision to take T's shoes off and give him a little holiday.
We have had quite a full on year - I brought Texan in June 08 where he had competed up to elemantary level, dressage, but he proved to have a scopey, bold jump. So this year he has learnt a new trade and we have throughly enjoyed our selves doing loads of shows and three away shows, Towerlands, Arena UK and Wales and The West, he has taken it all in his stride!
One downside to Texan is he has particularly bad feet, he has really bad cracks and the horn growth is literally non-existant, so I have got him on Hoof Power whilst he is on his hols to give his feet the best chance possible! I have the farrier coming up at the end of the week to give him a trim and to check overall how he is doing, so far so good as I have seen a significant improvement in quality of hoof!
I'm back to the hospital on the 12th to have a spine check, hopefully it all goes well and I'll have the all clear to get back on board! My back feels superb so I'm feeling really positive! Then we can start getting fit to hopefully be ready for the New Year show at the Hand Equestrian!
We have had quite a full on year - I brought Texan in June 08 where he had competed up to elemantary level, dressage, but he proved to have a scopey, bold jump. So this year he has learnt a new trade and we have throughly enjoyed our selves doing loads of shows and three away shows, Towerlands, Arena UK and Wales and The West, he has taken it all in his stride!
One downside to Texan is he has particularly bad feet, he has really bad cracks and the horn growth is literally non-existant, so I have got him on Hoof Power whilst he is on his hols to give his feet the best chance possible! I have the farrier coming up at the end of the week to give him a trim and to check overall how he is doing, so far so good as I have seen a significant improvement in quality of hoof!
I'm back to the hospital on the 12th to have a spine check, hopefully it all goes well and I'll have the all clear to get back on board! My back feels superb so I'm feeling really positive! Then we can start getting fit to hopefully be ready for the New Year show at the Hand Equestrian!
What has squad member Georgina Rose been up to this month?
October has been a busy month for us with the last of the hunter trials, and the horses beginning to dig out their winter woolies. We started this month with a hunter trial at Stockland Lovell, a 2'6 senior class. We put in a good clear with a relatively fast time, although I felt that she wasnt as quick as last time out at Straitgate Farm, where we finished 2nd. It was good enough for 8th though, which I was pleased with considering the size of the class.
We took time out at the end of the month to enjoy a 12 mile fun ride at Ashill in Devon. It included a ride up the Kittow racing gallops which was great fun, a a nic way to round off what will probably be the best of the weather!
This month has also been one of progress, especially for my 3yo NF gelding, Al. He was broken mid September, and is now trotting confidently and beginning canter work. He is very willing and calm, but can only go a few strides before the baby wobbles set in and he falls back in to trot. He is trying hard and giving his best, and I have every confidence that it won't be long before he gets the hang of it! He also tackled his first trotting pole, which he did brilliantly. I am really pleased with him, he is showing such promise and is particaurly special as he is the first pony that I have broken.
Our other horse Merlin, has started to get grumpy now that the grass is becoming less appetising and he is having to wait for us to come down and give him hay and feed too. With the colder weather setting in, he is starting to get a little stiff and awkward when you first get on, so I am hoping that Organic Horse's Joint Power will relieve him a little, as well as their Respiratory Power to help ease irritation from hay dust. He is looking well for this time of year though, and I hope that this is a sign of things to come as he can be quite a poor doer. My mum has started getting back into riding again this month, so Merlin is playing the role of riding school horse for the time being which he throughly enjoys as it means going slowly, which is what he does best!
I am currently studying for my BHS Stage 1 exam, and the end of the month brought me just over half way through the course, which really hit home how close my exam is in December, but I feel quietly confident, so fingers crossed! I have also booked myself in for the Ride and Road Safety Test course which starts soon, so plenty to be getting on with.
We took time out at the end of the month to enjoy a 12 mile fun ride at Ashill in Devon. It included a ride up the Kittow racing gallops which was great fun, a a nic way to round off what will probably be the best of the weather!
This month has also been one of progress, especially for my 3yo NF gelding, Al. He was broken mid September, and is now trotting confidently and beginning canter work. He is very willing and calm, but can only go a few strides before the baby wobbles set in and he falls back in to trot. He is trying hard and giving his best, and I have every confidence that it won't be long before he gets the hang of it! He also tackled his first trotting pole, which he did brilliantly. I am really pleased with him, he is showing such promise and is particaurly special as he is the first pony that I have broken.
Our other horse Merlin, has started to get grumpy now that the grass is becoming less appetising and he is having to wait for us to come down and give him hay and feed too. With the colder weather setting in, he is starting to get a little stiff and awkward when you first get on, so I am hoping that Organic Horse's Joint Power will relieve him a little, as well as their Respiratory Power to help ease irritation from hay dust. He is looking well for this time of year though, and I hope that this is a sign of things to come as he can be quite a poor doer. My mum has started getting back into riding again this month, so Merlin is playing the role of riding school horse for the time being which he throughly enjoys as it means going slowly, which is what he does best!
I am currently studying for my BHS Stage 1 exam, and the end of the month brought me just over half way through the course, which really hit home how close my exam is in December, but I feel quietly confident, so fingers crossed! I have also booked myself in for the Ride and Road Safety Test course which starts soon, so plenty to be getting on with.
Organic Horse Elite Squad member: Constantin van Rijckevorsel
Constantin van Rijckevorsel events several horses...Our Vintage a 13 year old, 16hh, Australian TB competing at Advanced level.
Dry Old Party a 10 year old, 16.1hh, English TB by Undesperado at Intermediate level.
Costela an 8 year old, 17.1hh, Swedish warmblood by Lavirco at Intermediate level.
Favorit Z a 4 year old 16.2hh, KWPN by Favoritas xx who is just starting.
First Dance a 4 year old mare, 16.1hh, Irish sport horse by Big Sink Hope who is also just starting.
Constantin has a long list of achievements so far:
Silver medallist at the Young Rider European championships in 95
8th at the Atlanta Olympics in 96
Competed at the European championships in Burghley in 97
Competed at the World Equestrian games in Rome 98
Team bronze at the European championships in Luhmuhlen in 99
Competed at the Sydney Olympics in 2000
Competed at the European championships in Pau in 2001
Team bronze at the European championships in Punchestown in 2003
10th at the Athens Olympics in 2004
Competed at the European championships in Blenheim in 2005
Team 4th at the European championships in Rome in 2007
Team bronze at the European championships in Fontainebleau in 2009
Plus numerous placing at CCI/CIC 1 2 3and 4 star events from 95 to 2009
Constantin is aiming to perform well at every level and make it to the championship at the end of each season.
Why horses? "I always had horses at home so never really wondered why. My parents were passionate about it, supported me through the hard times and now I get on with it..."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "My biggest horsey bugbear would be the way some horsey people only speak about horses and always know better!"
Worst horsey habit? "My worst horsey habit is probably to go and muck out at ten o’clock at night whatever happens."
If not horses what? "I studied business and economics at university, so I would probably be depressed behind a desk somewhere in town."
What could you not live without? "I could not live without my wife and baby daughter, it gives a whole new dimension to life!"
Organic Horse Elite Squad: Therese van Rijckevorsel
Therese van Rijckevorsel events several horses:Canons Park (Parky) 16.1hh, Thoroughbred, born in 1993. Parky is an ex race horse with lots of experience. He was bought as a 6 year old novice horse, has competed in many 3* competitions and Burghley 4*, 11th at Bramham YR CCI***. Parky has been off competing due to injury but is now back and is aimed for 3* level 2010. Lovely sweet horse but can be very sharp.
Butterfly Boy (Bobo) 16.2hh, born in 2001 (Muskaat – Opium de Laubry) and has a thoroughbred mother who show jumped 1.40m. The sire is a grand prix show jumper with Voltaire in his blood lines. Bobo came to Therese as a 3 year old and is extremely talented in all phases and is a real star for the future. He competed at intermediate level 2009 and is ready to go CCI**. Great temperament with a will do attitude.
Buzzy Bee (Bee) 16.1hh born in 2001 (Joy Van 't Langwater - Canadian River) and owned by Eric van Rijckevorsel. Bee is a Belgian Warmblood with very good paces and a good jump. Her grand mother was a medium weight champion at Dublin Horse Show and her sire is by Capitol. She did her first CCI* in Hartpury 2009. She is a lovely horse and is aimed for a CCI** later next year. Bee is a lovely mare with great temperament a real quality horse.
Fun Fair (Felix) 16.1hh by Roven, born in 2005 and bred by Tintin’s parents in Belgium, very talented young horse with good paces and a scopey jump, 75% thoroughbred and 25% connemara. Felix has a fantastic temperament and learns new things easily. Will be aimed at Burghley Young Event Horse 2010.
Don't Look Back (Donal) 16.1hh born in 2006, Irish horse by Ghareeb. Has been broken this season and has a lovely temperament and finds everything very easy. He is a very good jumper with a positive attitude. Donal will also be aimed at Burghley Young Event Horse 2010.
Therese has been longlisted for several years for the Swedish Team and has also competed at Burghley CCI**** in 2004, came 11th at Bramham YR CCI***, 5th and 10th at Chatsworth Advanced and qualified for British Open YR Championships in Waregem 2001. Her aim for 2010 is to come back to 3* level after having a daughter this year and new horses coming up. Long term she is aiming for the 2011 Europeans and 2012 Olympics in London.
Why horses? "My mother used to event in Sweden so she introduced me to horses and later on eventing. What I love about horses is that you never stop learning and it is very rewarding to work with them."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Riders who blame their horses."
Worst horsey habit? "My little daughter sleeps by the arena while I school my horses."
If not horses what? "When I was 15 I was accepted at a snow board college but ended up choosing a horsey career instead. If I wouldn't have done horses as a career I would probably have been a designer."
What could you not live without? "My sleep, I really need 8 hours sleep!"
Organic Horse Start Squad member: Katherine Soley
Katherine Soley has three horses and competes in affiliated dressage. Challenger II (Ralph) is a 17.2hh Hanoverian X who is competing at Advanced Medium, Penrith Ryhme (Bobbie) is a 16.2hh Thoroughbred at Medium level and Bullaford Fool’s Gold (Harry) is an 18.2hh Dutch Warmblood also competing at Medium level.
All of Katherine's horses have been given to her, as they have been deemed dangerous/naughty/un- rideable. Bob was deemed by “professionals” as extremely dangerous and she was told she would never be able to ride him. "My greatest achievement so far has been when I got on Bob with no saddle and only a rope head collar and could half pass, piaffe, and passage in a relaxed manner – he is well known for rearing and throwing himself over backwards- and still will do, with an arrogant rider!" Katherine aims to continue her progress with the horses training, all of the horses advancing through the tests and would like to see the two Warmbloods eventually go on to Prix St Georges and beyond.
Why horses? "At 3.30 in the morning, when I’m called out to a suspected colic I ask the same question myself! Thankfully it doesn’t happen often. Horses have taught me so much, most importantly to listen and watch, and take the time it takes so that it doesn’t take any more time. It doesn’t pay to rush!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Those riders who won’t listen to what their horse is trying to tell them."
Worst horsey habit? "Spending too much time drinking tea and chatting to friends, only to find that I am then running late and have to muck out 10 stables in 20 minutes."
If not horses what? "Sailing a yacht with my partner Jon. We are taking part in the 2010 round the Island Yacht Race in June next year and can often be found (when I’m not mucking out) floating about on the Solent or South Coast – occasionally on the river Avon, in Chippenham!!"
What could you not live without? "Chocolate. Jon, my beloved partner/groom/stable hand/exercise rider/cook and PA. Chocolate. My mother, without her help I wouldn’t be able to keep the horses at all. Red wine, and sausage and Chips… oh and did I mention the chocolate."
All of Katherine's horses have been given to her, as they have been deemed dangerous/naughty/un- rideable. Bob was deemed by “professionals” as extremely dangerous and she was told she would never be able to ride him. "My greatest achievement so far has been when I got on Bob with no saddle and only a rope head collar and could half pass, piaffe, and passage in a relaxed manner – he is well known for rearing and throwing himself over backwards- and still will do, with an arrogant rider!" Katherine aims to continue her progress with the horses training, all of the horses advancing through the tests and would like to see the two Warmbloods eventually go on to Prix St Georges and beyond.
Why horses? "At 3.30 in the morning, when I’m called out to a suspected colic I ask the same question myself! Thankfully it doesn’t happen often. Horses have taught me so much, most importantly to listen and watch, and take the time it takes so that it doesn’t take any more time. It doesn’t pay to rush!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Those riders who won’t listen to what their horse is trying to tell them."
Worst horsey habit? "Spending too much time drinking tea and chatting to friends, only to find that I am then running late and have to muck out 10 stables in 20 minutes."
If not horses what? "Sailing a yacht with my partner Jon. We are taking part in the 2010 round the Island Yacht Race in June next year and can often be found (when I’m not mucking out) floating about on the Solent or South Coast – occasionally on the river Avon, in Chippenham!!"
What could you not live without? "Chocolate. Jon, my beloved partner/groom/stable hand/exercise rider/cook and PA. Chocolate. My mother, without her help I wouldn’t be able to keep the horses at all. Red wine, and sausage and Chips… oh and did I mention the chocolate."
Friday, 30 October 2009
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Vicky Smith
Vicky Smith events and shows her three horses...Millhollow King of Kings, a 5 year old, 16.1hh, bay gelding TB x ID who has been competed in BE90 classes this year as well as having had success in the Burghley Young Event Horse classes and qualified for the Regional Finals in 2010.
Indian King is a 4 year old, 16.2hh, skewbald gelding ISH who is ready to compete in HOYS coloured and Young event horse classes in 2010.
Misty is a 16 year old, 15hh grey Connemara gelding and is Vicky's fun horse! Has won numerous working hunter and jumping classes over the last 12 years and now keeps the youngsters company and is a great baby sitter! He has qualified for the Oliver Townend eventers challenge Final which is held in December 2009.
Vicky has quite a list of achivements so far including competing at HOYS, Olympia and Royal International in show classes, she has qualified for the Riding Club National Championships 3 times as well as having qualified for the BD regional championships and been placed at an Area Festival. Her short term aims are to have a nice team of horses fit and ready to compete for the 2010 season. She intends to spend the winter competing dressage and showjumping to improve and get the horses ready for next seasonand be successful in the Oliver Townend Eventers Challenge. Long term she hopes to qualify Indian King for HOYS in the ridden coloured class and Millhollow king of kings for the Intro Final at Badminton. "Having been 2nd at Hoys on 3 occassions I would love to go one better!"
Why horses? "Having ridden all my life I probably couldn’t live without them. I love buying a young horse and producing it well so it can go on and be successful."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Strong Bits. I hate the current trend of using driving bits in the show ring. If a horse is trained correctly there shouldn’t be a need for them."
Worst horsey habit? "Leaving my boots dirty in the lorry….. Somehow they magically clean themselves."
If not horses what? "Probably very bored!"
What could you not live without? "My mum. She supports me and I couldn’t ride without her support. She drives the lorry, exercises the horses at home, feeds us all at shows, helps me on the flat and over fences and she is very honest and critical which is a great help."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Strong Bits. I hate the current trend of using driving bits in the show ring. If a horse is trained correctly there shouldn’t be a need for them."
Worst horsey habit? "Leaving my boots dirty in the lorry….. Somehow they magically clean themselves."
If not horses what? "Probably very bored!"
What could you not live without? "My mum. She supports me and I couldn’t ride without her support. She drives the lorry, exercises the horses at home, feeds us all at shows, helps me on the flat and over fences and she is very honest and critical which is a great help."
Organic Horse Start Squad member: Claire Thomas
Claire Thomas owns Aldareno (stable name Aldo) a 4 year old, 16.3hh, Spanish x Selle Francais competing at Novice level dressage. Aldo made the long journey from Spain a year ago and Claire bought him in March this year. Due to one thing and another she has only been riding him for approximately 4 months, however, the pair have greatly improved during those months, both in confidence in each other and also in their abilities! Aldo at present doesn't love his lorry as much as Claire does so she is having to work very hard to show him it is fun to travel! After this the combination will be making their dressage debut, so watch this space! Her ultimate aim is to qualify for the BD National Dressage championships.
Why horses? "A question I often ask myself on cold winter early mornings."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People who ill treat their horses."
Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack as often as I should."
If not horses what? "Would have more time and money so would probably party more and go on foreign holidays but be very bored and hungover in between!!"
What could you not live without? "My Mum and Dad who support me enormously and supply me with frozen meals they have cooked and prepared, which is a Godsend in the winter when coming home late from the stables."
Why horses? "A question I often ask myself on cold winter early mornings."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People who ill treat their horses."
Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack as often as I should."
If not horses what? "Would have more time and money so would probably party more and go on foreign holidays but be very bored and hungover in between!!"
What could you not live without? "My Mum and Dad who support me enormously and supply me with frozen meals they have cooked and prepared, which is a Godsend in the winter when coming home late from the stables."
Thursday, 29 October 2009
Organic Horse Start Squad member: Abby Steel
Abby Steel rides two horses, Lilly the pink III and Romora Ash (Pinky). Lilly is a 16.2hh warmblood x 5 yr old palomino mare and Abby has owned her for just over a year. The pair have been jumping up to BSJA Discovery level and hope to be jumping Newcomers by the end of the winter. Abby has so far qualified for the Trailblazers show jumping (90cms) finals for next spring, she has won and been placed in many British Novice classes. They have also had a successful showing season in palomino classes and is aiming to take her to the Royal Norfolk Show next year. Pinky is a 15.2hh Irish TB 6 yr old chesnut mare. Abby has had Pinky for a year and a half after rescuing her when she was a very bad condition, it has taken a year to get her back to full health and she is now in schooling and showing a very promising jump. She is aiming to be competing her unaffiliated jumping this winter to prepare her for affiliated competitions next year. Her aim for the future short term is to get Lilly to grade B level in 2 years, long term she wants to make a career out of show jumping horses which she has produced herself.
Why horses? "I started at a very early age and would have nothing to spend my money on if i didn't have them!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Not going to enough shows, as parents WON'T take me."
Worst horsey habit? "Riding with my stirrups far too short!"
If not horses what? "Can't imagine never having horses!"
What could you not live without? "Brushing boots! And pulled tails!"
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Myles West
Myles West show jumps two horses, Ullie a four year old 17hh TB cross and Mackan a 16.3hh, 4 year old warmblood who is regrettably for sale. Myles has a list of results under his belt including, 3rd in the main ring at Hickstead, 1st Winter novice class Blue Chip Championships and 2nd in the Discovery final Festival of Showjumping. He is aiming to build a client base on his yard and carry on producing youngsters. Long term he wants to produce, home bred horses for showjumping and then see them succesfully continue their careers.
Why horses? "The enjoyment of building up a bond with a young horse from scratch and then working with them and correctly producing them for a career they can enjoy."
Worst horsey habit? "Leaving tack out on yard."
What could you not live without? "Carrots - they are always good encouragement for young horses."
Why horses? "The enjoyment of building up a bond with a young horse from scratch and then working with them and correctly producing them for a career they can enjoy."
Worst horsey habit? "Leaving tack out on yard."
What could you not live without? "Carrots - they are always good encouragement for young horses."
Forest Farmacy sponsored rider and Organic Horse Elite Squad member: Jo Barry
Jo started riding at the local riding school at the age of 4. Weekly lessons soon became whole weekends and then on as many evenings after school as were possible. Jo got her first pony, a stroppy chestnut mare, when she was 8. She taught Jo how to stay on and they took part in Pony Club, Side Saddle and ventured in to the world of showing. During the next few years Jo rode at many of the major shows, the RIHS, HOYS and Olympia riding in SHP, WHP and M&M classes.
With her 14hh SHP, Jo tried a few dressage tests and within a short period of time showing was left behind and British Pony Team selection was firmly in their sights! In 1993 selection was achieved and dressage started to become an addiction. On leaving school Jo was offered a job with Carl Hester to fill in the few months of her gap year. A few months turned into 5yrs and University has never happened! During her time with Carl she was head girl, rode many of Carl's horses and rode to PSG competitively. In 1997 she won the National Talent Spotting and in 1998 headed the Young Rider Rankings. 2000 saw her head to the Sydney Olympics to groom for Carl..an experience of a lifetime.
In early 2001 she returned to her home just outside Edinburgh to run a livery, training and competition yard. It is from here that she is still based. The yard is run by Jo and her mother, Flora. Ormiston is ideally positioned being only 10 minutes from the Edinburgh city bypass, M8 (junction 3), M9 (Newbridge interchange) and Edinburgh airport.
Jo travels throughout the UK to take clinics, she holds her EFI Level 1 & 2 certificates and is an EFI qualified Tutor. She is accredited to The Scottish Equestrian Association, SportsScotland, British Dressage and The British Horse Society and has the appropriate insurance, first aid and child protection cover. In 2009 she was awarded the Pat Smallwood Training Award by the BHS. This award is to help nominated Instructors further their own training with a view to pass their increased knowledge onto their pupils.
Jo travels to train with Carl Hester and Stephen Clarke and competes throughout the UK. She has won 7 National and numerous Scottish Championships, qualifying many horses for Winter, Summer and Scottish Championships. During her dressage career, Jo has had the opportunity to receive training from some of the greatest riders and judges while participating on clinics and conventions taken by people such as Reiner Klimke, Nicole Uphoff, Hubertus Schmidt and Christoph Hess and has been noted by these prominent figures to have the required talent. With her top horse Vivaldi V, whom she owns with Lady Hope, she aims to achieve her lifelong goal of riding Internationally at Senior level..if all things go well maybe even with a place on a Senior Team!
Rider History
GB Pony Team 1993
GB Junior Team Shortlist 1994
Worked for Carl Hester 1996-2001
GB Talent Spotting Winner 1997
GB Young Rider Team Shortlist 1998
No 1 Ranked Young Rider 1998
AON Dressage Rider of the Year 2002
Pat Smallwood Training Award 2009
Number of Titles Won
7 British Championship Titles
11 Scottish Championship Titles
Number of Horses Qualified
14 for the British Winter Championships
18 for the British National Championships
About Jo's horses
Vivaldi V (Freddie) born in 2002. 17hh KWPN, black, gelding by Rilke, out of Donabel (byDonnerhall). Owned by Lady Hope and Jo Barry.
Successes
Scottish Sports Horse Champion 2006
Potential International Young Horse Champion, British Summer Championships 2007
2nd 5yo International, British Young Horse Championships 2007
1st Novice Freestyle, British Winter Championships 2007
2nd Novice Open, British Summer Championships 2007
1st Elementary Open, British Summer Championships 2007
2nd Medium Open, British Summer Championships 2009
Scottish Novice Champion 2007
Scottish Elementary Champion 2007
Scottish Medium Champion 2009
2010 Qualifications
Elementary Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
Medium Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
Medium Open Scottish Semi-finals
Rameau II (Rafa) born in 2004. 16.2hh, brown Oldenburg gelding by Rosario, out of Stutbuch (by Rohdiamant). Owned by Lady Hope and Jo Barry.
Successes
Qualified 5yo Final, British Young Horse Championships 2009
Qualified Novice Open Scottish Regional Championships 2009
Qualified Novice Scottish Championships 2009
2010 Qualifications
Novice Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
With her 14hh SHP, Jo tried a few dressage tests and within a short period of time showing was left behind and British Pony Team selection was firmly in their sights! In 1993 selection was achieved and dressage started to become an addiction. On leaving school Jo was offered a job with Carl Hester to fill in the few months of her gap year. A few months turned into 5yrs and University has never happened! During her time with Carl she was head girl, rode many of Carl's horses and rode to PSG competitively. In 1997 she won the National Talent Spotting and in 1998 headed the Young Rider Rankings. 2000 saw her head to the Sydney Olympics to groom for Carl..an experience of a lifetime.
In early 2001 she returned to her home just outside Edinburgh to run a livery, training and competition yard. It is from here that she is still based. The yard is run by Jo and her mother, Flora. Ormiston is ideally positioned being only 10 minutes from the Edinburgh city bypass, M8 (junction 3), M9 (Newbridge interchange) and Edinburgh airport.
Jo travels throughout the UK to take clinics, she holds her EFI Level 1 & 2 certificates and is an EFI qualified Tutor. She is accredited to The Scottish Equestrian Association, SportsScotland, British Dressage and The British Horse Society and has the appropriate insurance, first aid and child protection cover. In 2009 she was awarded the Pat Smallwood Training Award by the BHS. This award is to help nominated Instructors further their own training with a view to pass their increased knowledge onto their pupils.
Jo travels to train with Carl Hester and Stephen Clarke and competes throughout the UK. She has won 7 National and numerous Scottish Championships, qualifying many horses for Winter, Summer and Scottish Championships. During her dressage career, Jo has had the opportunity to receive training from some of the greatest riders and judges while participating on clinics and conventions taken by people such as Reiner Klimke, Nicole Uphoff, Hubertus Schmidt and Christoph Hess and has been noted by these prominent figures to have the required talent. With her top horse Vivaldi V, whom she owns with Lady Hope, she aims to achieve her lifelong goal of riding Internationally at Senior level..if all things go well maybe even with a place on a Senior Team!
Rider History
GB Pony Team 1993
GB Junior Team Shortlist 1994
Worked for Carl Hester 1996-2001
GB Talent Spotting Winner 1997
GB Young Rider Team Shortlist 1998
No 1 Ranked Young Rider 1998
AON Dressage Rider of the Year 2002
Pat Smallwood Training Award 2009
Number of Titles Won
7 British Championship Titles
11 Scottish Championship Titles
Number of Horses Qualified
14 for the British Winter Championships
18 for the British National Championships
About Jo's horses
Vivaldi V (Freddie) born in 2002. 17hh KWPN, black, gelding by Rilke, out of Donabel (byDonnerhall). Owned by Lady Hope and Jo Barry.
Successes
Scottish Sports Horse Champion 2006
Potential International Young Horse Champion, British Summer Championships 2007
2nd 5yo International, British Young Horse Championships 2007
1st Novice Freestyle, British Winter Championships 2007
2nd Novice Open, British Summer Championships 2007
1st Elementary Open, British Summer Championships 2007
2nd Medium Open, British Summer Championships 2009
Scottish Novice Champion 2007
Scottish Elementary Champion 2007
Scottish Medium Champion 2009
2010 Qualifications
Elementary Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
Medium Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
Medium Open Scottish Semi-finals
Rameau II (Rafa) born in 2004. 16.2hh, brown Oldenburg gelding by Rosario, out of Stutbuch (by Rohdiamant). Owned by Lady Hope and Jo Barry.
Successes
Qualified 5yo Final, British Young Horse Championships 2009
Qualified Novice Open Scottish Regional Championships 2009
Qualified Novice Scottish Championships 2009
2010 Qualifications
Novice Freestyle Scottish Semi-finals
Organic Horse Start Squad member: Rebecca Barley
Rebecca Barley has two horses, Amiro (Alf) a 17hh, 7yo, Dutch Warmblood who she does Discovery and 1m Opens show jumping classes on as well as dressage. Cool Spot (Spot) is a 21 year old (yes!!!) 16.3hh, Thoroughbred (ex racer) who does everything - especially if it involves jumping! So far Rebecca has had several double clears at Discovery level with Alf and has managed to get Spot to do a reasonable riding club dressage test! She is aiming to step up to Newcomers with Alf once she has had a few more double clears and hopefully qualify for the Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships at Hartpury and long term she is aiming to get to Foxhunter level. Why horses? "How else would I spend ALL of my money!!!!!?????!!!!!!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People not cleaning bits after they have been used!!"
Worst horsey habit? "I have quite a few!!"
If not horses what? "I can’t even consider that!"
What could you not live without? "My two boys (the horses!) and Anna Bailey for my lessons."
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Gemma Bishop
Gemma Bishop competes in Endurance on Minnismoor Mistique, a 13 year old, 14.3 part-bred Arab and a new horse for 2010, Vlacq Majid, a 7 year old, 14.3 pure-bred Arab. Minnismoor Mistique has achieved various CRs from 32km to 80km. ERs from 82km to 120km, with good placings in all of the ERs – a 4th and two 3rd so far. She aims to continue in the same vein with Minnismoor Mistique and to complete a 1* FEI ride in 2010. Vlacq Majid – she’ll only be starting her endurance career in 2010 so the aim for her is a successful novice season and then we’ll see how she gets on from there.
Why horses? "I blame my mother entirely! She didn’t learn to ride until she was 17, so she was determined that at least of her children would learn from an early stage. My sister wasn’t terribly interested, but I was infected by the horsey bug at an early stage and as we all know, it’s an incurable disease!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "The idea that you can’t follow a ‘natural’ horsemanship approach and be competitive. The two are not mutually exclusive. It is perfectly possible to compete at a high level whilst adhering to an approach that seeks a lifestyle for your horse that is as close to ‘natural’ for them as it can be."
Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack often enough."
If not horses what? "Motorbikes."
What could you not live without? "Oxygen, horses and red wine. If I’ve got enough of all 3, I’m happy!"
Why horses? "I blame my mother entirely! She didn’t learn to ride until she was 17, so she was determined that at least of her children would learn from an early stage. My sister wasn’t terribly interested, but I was infected by the horsey bug at an early stage and as we all know, it’s an incurable disease!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "The idea that you can’t follow a ‘natural’ horsemanship approach and be competitive. The two are not mutually exclusive. It is perfectly possible to compete at a high level whilst adhering to an approach that seeks a lifestyle for your horse that is as close to ‘natural’ for them as it can be."
Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack often enough."
If not horses what? "Motorbikes."
What could you not live without? "Oxygen, horses and red wine. If I’ve got enough of all 3, I’m happy!"
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Anna Bailey
Anna Bailey competes Urino - an 8 year old, 16.1hh KWPN by Larino at Intermediate level/CCI* eventing and Gringo a 4 year old 16.2hh Belgian byUp To Date in Burghley Young Event Horse classes. She was British Junior Champion 1994 - and has competed in various National finals and the Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships. She made her International Eventing debut in September and will hopefully go to compete abroad in the spring. Anna is aiming to compete in Europe in the Spring at CCI* Level and then to complete a 2* with the same horse by the end of next summer. In the long term she hopes to compete on a British team and at 3* and hopefully 4* level.
Why horses? "I've always ridden and love competing."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People are scared of their horse - you should sell it and get one you can enjoy as they are too expensive to not enjoy."
Worst horsey habit? "Blaming myself when really the horse could have just tried a bit harder too."
If not horses what? "Something competitive. I cant dance but would love to have time to learn."
What could you not live without? "My Dalmation and my Equipe saddle."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People are scared of their horse - you should sell it and get one you can enjoy as they are too expensive to not enjoy."
Worst horsey habit? "Blaming myself when really the horse could have just tried a bit harder too."
If not horses what? "Something competitive. I cant dance but would love to have time to learn."
What could you not live without? "My Dalmation and my Equipe saddle."
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Ann Hartley
Ann Hartley competes several horses in affiliated dressage and eventing...
Piqurant (Dutch Warmblood 17hh, 12yrs) owned by Mrs D Odgers. Aiming to qualify elementary, medium and freestyle.
Summer Party (Irish Sports Horse 16.1hh 16yrs) owned by Miss A Hartley. Combined Training specialist and Novice eventer.
Black Jet (Australian TB 16hh 14yrs) owned by Mrs A Gunson. Aiming to qualify elementary, medium and freestyle and Novice eventing.
Mister Pickwick (TB 16.2hh 6yrs) owned by Mr & Mrs Crosland. Working at novice level, competing unaffiliated dressage.
Nairobee (TB 16.2hh 4yrs) owned by Mr & Mrs K Farrow. Backed and been in work 6 months, ready to be introduced to the competition circuit.
So far Ann has been awarded BYRDS YR Home International Novice Champion 09, BYRDS NW "B" Squad Champion 09, 2nd BD Winter National Novice Restricted Freestyle. Short term aims would be in dressage to continue qualifying BD regional and national championships novice open and upwards. Eventing to qualify the eventers to CCI*/CIC* and to bring on and train young horses. Long term Ann hopes to become established in the sports and to be recognised as a rider, trainer and keep meeting goals set.
Why horses? "I've grown up with horses from a very young age; thus become second nature." Biggest horsey bug bear? "Definitely the cost to do the sport."
Worst horsey habit? "Not aware of one but I'm sure someone could tell you."
If not horses what? "If I wasn't to be fortunate enough to work with horses then I would have trained up as a paramedic.
What couldn't you live without? "This is a tough one; one thing I could not live without has to be my Iphone."
Organic Horse Elite Squad: Roger Gregory
Roger Gregory competes a team of horses in dressage...
Comanche Crumble (Crumble) 13 years old 15.2 hh Bay mare - Home Bred - BWB by Cassander out of our Comanche Cloud. Competing at Advanced Dressage and has so far won many competitions including the Regional Advanced Medium Championship, Premier League P.S.G, competed International Small Tour. His aim for Crumble is to qualify for National Champs in Intermediare II and Grand Prix in 2010.
Comanche Thopan (Pan) 9 years old 16.1hh - Grey Gelding - KWPN by Negro / Michelangelo. Currently competing at Novice Dressage, Pan shows huge talent for advanced dressage but is very "hot". Roger is hoping 2010 will be his year.
Comanche Wodan (Goddy) 6 years old, 16.2 chestnut gelding KWPN by Rousseau / Landeur. Currently competing at Elementary Dressage, qualified for 4, 5 & 6 year old championships, qualified for the Winter Regionals at Elementary, Medium AND Advanced Medium, over the last few weeks. He is now training towards PSG and Roger thinks he shows huge talent.
Sipko - (owner Jayne Robbie) 10 years old, 16.2 Bay Gelding KWPN by Jetset D / Zeoliet. Currently competing at Novice Dressage and trying to qualify for Winter Regionals at Elementary. He is showing good aptitude towards PSG for 2010.
Why Horses? "I like challenges and each horse is a different challange."
Biggest Horsey bug bear? "Being Broke."
Worst horsey Habit? "Haven't got one (that I am going to admit anyway)"
If not horses what? "Rich & Bored or Motorsport (again)."
What could you not live without? "Red Wine!!"
Comanche Crumble (Crumble) 13 years old 15.2 hh Bay mare - Home Bred - BWB by Cassander out of our Comanche Cloud. Competing at Advanced Dressage and has so far won many competitions including the Regional Advanced Medium Championship, Premier League P.S.G, competed International Small Tour. His aim for Crumble is to qualify for National Champs in Intermediare II and Grand Prix in 2010.
Comanche Thopan (Pan) 9 years old 16.1hh - Grey Gelding - KWPN by Negro / Michelangelo. Currently competing at Novice Dressage, Pan shows huge talent for advanced dressage but is very "hot". Roger is hoping 2010 will be his year.
Comanche Wodan (Goddy) 6 years old, 16.2 chestnut gelding KWPN by Rousseau / Landeur. Currently competing at Elementary Dressage, qualified for 4, 5 & 6 year old championships, qualified for the Winter Regionals at Elementary, Medium AND Advanced Medium, over the last few weeks. He is now training towards PSG and Roger thinks he shows huge talent.
Sipko - (owner Jayne Robbie) 10 years old, 16.2 Bay Gelding KWPN by Jetset D / Zeoliet. Currently competing at Novice Dressage and trying to qualify for Winter Regionals at Elementary. He is showing good aptitude towards PSG for 2010.
Why Horses? "I like challenges and each horse is a different challange."
Biggest Horsey bug bear? "Being Broke."
Worst horsey Habit? "Haven't got one (that I am going to admit anyway)"
If not horses what? "Rich & Bored or Motorsport (again)."
What could you not live without? "Red Wine!!"
Organic Horse Start Squad member: Selina Campbell
Selina Campbell competes No Illusion (Mya) a 10 year old, 16.2hh mare by Zero Watt out of a Cloverhill mare. The pair have mainly been competing at riding club level, doing Working Hunter and BSJA Show Jumping. Selina qualified for the National Bursary for Amateur Show Jumpers final in 2009 and competed at Balmoral Agricultural show being placed in 2007 & 2008. She is aiming to compete and be placed in the Balmoral Open Working Hunter class, then focus on Dublin Horse Show for the Working Hunter Mares Class. Long term, she would also like to compete in the 1m/1m10 class this year and gain more juming points to move up the grades.
Why horses? "They constantly challenge you, they can give you the biggest buzz one day and then bring you back to earth with a bump (literally) the next."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People's attitude towards chestnut mares. I have two (Mya and her dam) and they are the best natured horses you could meet."
Worst horsey habit? "Probably talking about horses from the moment I get up until I go to sleep!!"
If not horses what? "Dog agility...show jumping for dogs!! Both my dogs love it."
What could you not live without? "My boyfriend, my horses and my dogs.."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "People's attitude towards chestnut mares. I have two (Mya and her dam) and they are the best natured horses you could meet."
Worst horsey habit? "Probably talking about horses from the moment I get up until I go to sleep!!"
If not horses what? "Dog agility...show jumping for dogs!! Both my dogs love it."
What could you not live without? "My boyfriend, my horses and my dogs.."
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Tilly Tillbrook
Tilly Tilbrook competes Burr Oak, a 16.2hh, 9 year old, bay gelding by the advanced eventer Marsden St George, out of a TB mare called Fortune (TBxBWB). She competes to Novice BE, Newcomers BSJA and elementary dressage. In just her second season of eventing she has reached Novice level and qualified for a CCI* and is now thrilled to have been selected to join the Organic Horse Potential Squad. She is aiming to rebuild Burr Oak's confidence and continue to improve her dressage with the hope of qualifying for the BD regional finals over the winter. She hopes to get out eventing at Novice level again next season and move up to Intermediate level and complete a CCI*.
Why horses? "It's an addiction. I broke the habit for 7 years at university and in my first job, but the call was too strong!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Hanging about for hours waiting to do BSJA."
Worst horsey habit? "My tendancy to under-estimate how long something will take, meaning I am always late for non-horsey things - I have very tolerant friends."
If not horses what? "I also rock climb, mountain bike, surf and snowboard, and if the horse went then surfing would take his place I think, but the one thing I competed at seriously in my break from horses was adventure racing."
What could you not live without? "My fiancee - simply because I actually couldn't as he does all the cooking and therefore quite literally keeps me alive! Horsey-wise, it's a simple thing, bug-shifter pads from Halfords - a sponge in a mesh bag, brilliant for washing horses with as they stop the sponge falling apart and let you really scrub them."
Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Roma Oakes
Roma Oakes competes Retina 184, a 16.2hh, 9 year old, grey Hanoverian mare at Novice, Elementary level and Para Grade IV dressage. She was the winner of the RDA National Dressage Championships July 2009, Northern Ireland Riding Clubs Dressage Champion (intermediate level), Northern Ireland Winter Dressage Championships 2nd at Preliminary, 1St Elementary league at Laurel View Equestrian Centre, 1st Novice league at LaurelView Equestrian Centre, and 1st Open Dressage League at KnockaghView EC, organised by Beeches Riding Club - to name a handful of results!
Roma's aims are to progress to medium level dressage this winter, compete in NI Dressage Festival in April 2010 and to defend her RDA Championship title in Hartpury in 2010. Long term she hopes to be selected to compete on the Irish team in Paralympic Dressage.
Why horses? "I have always loved horses, my grandfather was a blacksmith so it must be in my blood although he died before I was born and there were no horses around when I was young. Horses are just such lovely animals to be around. When I’m riding I can totally forget all my problems and just be ‘in the moment’. When I’m on a horse few people know that I have a disability so it is great to be just ‘normal’."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Hmmm.....high postage charges on orders of horsey stuff to Northern Ireland, sometimes they are just ridiculous!"
Worst horsey habit? "Not getting weight down through my heels, also tipping forward too much."
If not horses what? "Probably a psychiatric ward! Horses keep me sane. Seriously – I would probably have a career in Academia doing theoretical chemistry research (sorry – I know you think this is boring, but it is really fascinating stuff)."
What could you not live without? "Sprenger bow balance stirrups – they help ease the pain in my knees, ankles and hips and I can easily get my foot back in them on the rare occasion that I lose them. My trainer/yard owner – she keeps my horse working well and I never have to worry about how she is being looked after, Joan has an excellent yard that means everything is done to a very high standard."
To find out more about Roma visit http://www.romaoakes.co.uk/
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