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."

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."

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."

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

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!"

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."

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!!"

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.."

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/

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Sophie Abdy

Sophie Abdy events Millennium Magic (aka Richie) a 16.2hh bay gelding, 12 years old, Registered Irish Sports horse who has previously competed up to 2* level and is now currently competing at ON/JRN. Sophie first qualified for the Pony Club Eventing Championships in 2007 on another horse. In 2008 she got Richie and competed at Open Pre Novice where they came 3rd at Tweseldown. They also qualified for and competed at the Pony Club Tetrathlon Championships with the team finished 5th place overall. In 2009 the combination have competed at Novice level, coming 5th individually at a Pony Club Open event as well as qualifying for the Pony Club Open dressage championships. Sophie is now aiming to compete at some more Open Novice affiliated events next year and hopefully a few JRNs. She would also like to continue gaining experience and moving up through the levels.

Why horses? "Riding is a sport that I have really enjoyed since a young age, being lucky enough to have my first pony aged 5. Hunting particularly inspired me and I spent most of my weekends coming home freezing cold and covered in mud but thoroughly exhilarated. I love being able to do something different in my free time that challenges me both physically and mentally, and its great to work with animals that are smart and responsive."

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Cleaning tack after a freezing days hunting when your fingers are too numb to feel the leather. However as I'm always reminded it is a lot easier before the mud has dried!"

Worst horsey habit? "Not smiling enough when I'm riding and looking down too much - its because I'm concentrating so hard."

If not horses what? "It would be very hard to find something equally as exhilarating and rewarding, when you have had a good days hunting, or an awesome cross country round the adrenaline rush is amazing. However I would love to try competitive sailing."

What could you not live without? "My two most treasured possesions are Richie and my lurcher Woody. However I don't think I could live without my friends."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Heather Broad

Heather Broad competes Limes Play It Again (Pia) a 19 year old, 15.3hh TB x ID Grade A Show jumper. Pia is a good allrounder but the pair mainly stick to show jumping. Having had a total loss of confidence, Heather is now back on track and happy going in to the ring again. The combination have had several placings so far this year at various shows and are aiming to enjoy the winter season and win some classes.

Why horses? "I don't actually know thinking about - I suppose it is just a way of life - I wouldn't know what else to do!"
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Dirty Tack"
Worst horsey habit? "I pack far too much to go away to shows - it doesn't leave much foom for everyone else - I don't travel light!"
If not horses what? "Shopping!"
What could you not live without? "Gosh there are som many things! My farrier - he makes sure Pia has the shows and pads she needs, and it has been brilliant to have someone take so much care over her feet. Also my friend Kayleigh's Mum Ingrid - she mucks out for me in the week and it is so nice of her. And my Dad - he keeps the lorry running for us so we can go to shows."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Kayleigh Grant

Kayleigh Grant show jumps Texan VI, a 9 year old, 16.3hh, Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) up to Discovery level and is aiming to step up to Newcomers and compete at Hickstead next year - whilst also trying her hand at dressage and cross country. Long term she wants to get to HOYS!

Why horses? "Mum has had them since she was little, i think it was in my blood when i was born!"

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Poo picking in the rain! I can't stand hair not being tied up in a ponytale or a bun underneath the hat! Can make a rider look so messy!! Plus it's unsafe."

Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack enough!"

If not horses what? "I have no idea...?! I think i would be driving around in beautiful sports car though if i didnt have him!"

What could you not live without? "My mum! She turns out and mucks out Monday to Friday for Heather and myself, so we dont have to before work! Love her! Also Hheathers dad, as he is super at kepping the lorry in tip top running order for us!"

Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Emily Gresty

Emily Gresty events Uroco (Bob) who is an 8 year old, 16hh, dutch warmblood by Niarobi and out of Nouvelle. He is at BE Intermediatelevel/CCI**, BD elementry/medium, BSJA senior foxhunter and 1.25m open and Emily has brought him on from a just broken 5 year old.

So far Emily has qualifed for the Intermediate championships, was selected and competed on the Junior squad for Jardy (France), has achieved many placings at Intermediate, completed Longleat CIC**, won first novice (both rider and horse) and been selected for junior winter training list. She is aiming to compete at BD medium by the end of the winter and get selected for the junior european team next season. Long term she wants to compete at 3 star level and be listed for the young rider squads.

Why horses? "Because they are unpredictable and exciting."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Twisted reins and stirup leathers."
Worst horsey habit? "Crawling in between my horses legs."
If not horses what? "Swimming or water polo and of course the odd party."
What could you not live without? "Tesco value funiture polish! - 49p a bottle and better than the expensive canter coat shine or detangulars!!!"

Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Claire Boumphrey

Claire Boumphrey events and rides several horses competing at various levels.

Swynnerton - Aged 13, Advanced event horse, completed Blenheim CCI*** with a double clear, finishing in 27th and winning the prize for the most improved after dressage.

Dispol Truly - Aged 5, Intro event horse, completed her first two events, showing that she's a real star prospect for the future.

Expert Witness - 9yr old, Pre Novice event horse, a real school-master at this level.

Claire has already stacked up some fantastic results including 27th Blenheim CCI*** with a double clear, Double clear at Barbury CIC***, 1st West Buckland, 2nd West Wilts as well as qualifying for 4* for 2010. Claire is aiming for Badminton 2010 however the big aim is to find some owners/set up a yard.

Why horses? "Good question, as they are a silly job/interest to have, they take up all yout time, effort, money and life style, but i wouldn't have it any other way!!!"

Biggest horsey bug bear? "The cost of running an event horse, coupled with the fact that it's so hard to make a living out of riding horses full time."

Worst horsey habit? "Looking down over my fences, must look up/where i'm going."

If not horses what? "I have my snowboard instructors qualification, so i guess that."

What could you not live without? "Horses!! (and my car, i do alot of driving round to other peoples yards to ride)"

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Jemma Harrison

Jemma Harrison show jumps her own Picaso XII (Piquet) a 10 year old, 16.1hh Czech Warmblood. They have competed at Newcomers/Foxhunter level and have only been a parnership for 8 weeks. They are aiming to jump Foxhunter classes and hopefully go training to improve her experience and riding to compete at a higher level.

Why horses? "They give you are rush of adrenaline and excitement when jumping as they are never predictable and can surprise you with their many quirks, but the bond you gain with them is something special and worthwhile."

Biggest horsey bug bear? "The cold winters! Walking to the fields in the dark when its pouring with rain."

Worst horsey habit? "Looking down when I jump."

If not horses what? "I have been around horses for so long now that a life without them seems completely impossible and I would have no idea what to do!"

What could you not live without? "My dad, he has always been there to help me with my horses, from driving the horsebox to every show to holding my horse whilst I walked the courses. Without his help I wouldn't be able to compete at the level I do today."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Craig Barr

Craig Barr events his own Kilkee, a 17.2hh, bay, 8yo, ISH gelding with 49 points. He was bought at the end of the 2009 season, at intermediate/2 star level, with placings in intermediate classes and 1* events. He was also 4th in the Novice Championships in 2008. Craig also evented Luky, a Pre-Novice horse owned by Rachel Simpson in 2008 and hopes to have the ride back for the 2010 season.

Achievements so far"I suppose my best results have come at the end of the 2009 season so far with a horse called Pokeys Pride, the best coming a Gatcombe and Kelsall Novices finishing 3rd and 2nd respectively."

Aims for the future "My aim for 2010 is to be going well at intermediate and 2 star level, hopefully with a trip to the intermediate champs. All going very well Bramham U25 champs in 2011. In the long term i would like to establish myself as a top 4 star/ Olympic rider.

Why horses? "I have ridden horses from a very early age as my mum is an instructor so i have been brought up with them and couldn't imagen myself doing anything else."

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Lame horses. Over my career I have been haunted by lameness, with horses going lame before any of my major competitions or team trails. So fingers crossed for the next few years!!!!!!"

Worst horsey habit? "Non that I can think of but the girls I work with would probably have different ideas."

If not horses what? "I was never very academic, so not a brain surgeon. My dad works offshore as a professional diver so I would have probably followed in his footsteps."

What could you not live without? "My friends, I have a lot of friends in this sport and they are always ther to lend a hand, oh, and my i-pod!"

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Kelly Dickson

Kelly Dickson competes in affiliated show jumping with her horse Animatrix (Charlie at home) who is a 16.1hh, 10 year old bay gelding of unknown breeding. He is currently jumping at Newcomers level in BSJA. Kelly has qualified for the Amateur Championships at Aintree in November and qualified for the Joshua Jones UK Discovery Blue Chip Final at Hartpury next April. "Most of the horses I have had we have broken in and started from the beginning so to get up to Newcomers / Foxhunter level is an achievement for me with any horse." Kelly hopes she will do well at both championships and move up to Foxhunter classes next spring. "I would love to try and get to HOYS or the British Open for the Amateur class in the future."

Why horses? "I was born into in so it must be in my blood. My Mum rode from an early age, my Dad did a bit of cross country and my sister is very successful with re-training racehorses to showjump. She competed at Young Riders and Grade C / Foxhunters."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Just wish it was easier to get noticed when you have to work full time and you don't have the finance to have more than one horse at a time. There are a lot of talented riders out there that don't get noticed. That is why the Organic Horse Performance Squad is a wonderful opportunity to allow us to show others what we do and how we manage to cope with our sport at a lower level."
Worst horsey habit? "I'm I bit superstitious. I tend to put boots on in a special order and put rugs on in a certain way etc."
If not horses what? "I suppose it would have to be some kind of sport. I would be richer that’s for sure, but very unhappy."
What could you not live without? "Horses."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Josh Thompson

Josh Thompson events and rides Viander - a dun, 7 year old KWPN gelding by Hamlet who competes at Novice level and Shanagarry - a grey, 12 year old Connemara gelding who is at Intermediate level. Up to date he has achieved top 10 placings at JRN/Open Novice in 2008/2009, and completed his first CCI* clear XC. Josh aims to complete successfully at 1*/intermediate level in 2010 and in the future, to progress up the levels to 4* competition.

Why horses? "I have been interested in horses since I could walk, the unity between horse and rider is evident in no other sport."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Unfit horses competing."
Worst horsey habit? "The position of my hands in dressage."
If not horses what? "As a hobby, running. Career wise, I have no idea!"
What could you not live without? "My mother and the support I have with the horses."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Janice Pegler

Janice Pegler rides K.E.C Serenity a 16.1hh dark bay mare, 7yrs old by Aldatus Z out of KEC Diamond Nimba and competes at BE100 level in Eventing. Janice was placed 3rd in Stonar horse trials BE90 last year (08) this year Been 7th at Cheltenham BE100. "Being 3rd at Stonar qualified us for the intro reginal finals but unfortunatley we have had to miss this due to Serenity hitting a hind leg at Cheltenham and being off games for a while!!" Janice is aimimg to crack her showjumping and then hopefully win a BE100! Long term she would like to progress to Novice at end of next season and continue to do well.

Why Horses? "Good question, I have no idea... non horsey family but just got bitten by the bug as a child and haven't looked back since! I think it is a real sense of acheviement to have a horse working with you as a partnership."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Mucking out whatever the weather!"
Worst horsey habit? "Clicking at people or objects when you want them to hurry up!!!"
If not horses what? "Probably vet nursing."
What could you not live without? "My lorry because without it i couldn't compete then life would be very dull!"

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Kerry Graw

Kerry Graw has a string of horses and competes in show jumping.

Biggles - 6 yr old, 17hh, Irish sports horse - just started competing this year and showing great promise, jumping 1.20m at home. Registered BSJA and competing British Novice and Discovery showing promise and taking it in his stride.

Picnic - 14 yr old, 16.3hh, Shire x TB - Grade C showjumper £136 BSJA winnings. Currently competing Discovery and 1.05m classes aiming to enter Newcomers shortly.

Southside Zelux - 5 yr old, 17.2hh, Hannovarian by Lux Z - still very green with attitude but loves his jumping. This horse will be out competing BSJA soon.

Kerry has achieved many placings and double clears at British Novice and Discovery and has qualified for the Wiltshire Novice Championship. She bought a horse for £1 to reschool and on his first outing eventing came 10th at Intro. Her show jumping aims for the next 12 months are to compete on a regular basis and to achieve entry to the 2nd rounds and qualify for the finals in British Novice and Discovery classes as well as progressing to Newcomers classes.

Why horses? "Horses are a constant challenge and you never stop learning with them."

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Spookiness - why do things they see everyday suddenly appear as a scary monster???"

Worst horsey habit? "Buying rugs - I seem to never have enough and theres always sales on which means bargains to buy."

If not horses what? "I used to compete in gymnastics at county level up until I was 16 along with horse riding but had to make a decision as to which sport I wanted to continue as didn't have the time (or money!!!) to do both as was off to college .... horses won!"

What could you not live without? "My dog Ranger - he comes everywhere with us and loves the lorry!!!"

Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Oli Lawrence

Oli Lawrence mainly competes in eventing but does show jumping and dressage through the winter. He has a two horses he competes:

Lacken Chebel Novice BE, 17h, 8yo, Rich Rebel x Newtown Duchess.

Watchmacallit Novice BE, 12yo, 16.2hh, Creggan Diamond x Grange lucy 7th.

Oli got to the PC intermediate championships in 2007 before spending the season of 2008 in Ireland. This year placings include 9th Firle Place Open Novice, 6th Mattingley PN and 7th Keysoe PN. Oli aims to do a CCI* in the first half of next year and to be competitive in Open Intermediate Under 21 classes - the junior trials. Later on in the year perhaps a CIC**. Long term Oli has high hopes, "Get onto junior, young rider and senior teams and event professionally, then win Badminton, the Olympics, etc... the sky's the limit!"

Why horses? "Well are there really any other sports quite like eventing? Plus, there's something quite special about competing on an animal that in essence wasn't born to compete but will do so because it wants to. It really is something to produce a horse to do what you want not because it has to but because it wants to please."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Seeing people ride cross country dangerously, especially at the lower level. The vast majority of riders can and do ride safely and sensibly but I suppose they'll always be those few who have to show us 'how not to do it'."
Worst horsey habit? "Over analyzing things - I find it quite hard to leave certain things alone and accept that sometimes things just happen and horses being horses sometimes you can't get a reason for everything. I'd much rather analysis everything down to the last movement."
If not horses what? "Windsurfing, climbing, downhill mountain biking, tennis, hockey... the list is endless - I wouldn't find it difficult to fill any spare time to the point of bursting."
What could you not live without? "Family! I'd be absolutely no where without the support they give me each day. Oh, and my short jumping stick which I'm rather fond of....I got pretty wet trying to fish it out of the water when we went XC schooling!"

Find out more about Oli at http://www.olilawrence.co.uk/ or check out his video links at http://www.youtube.com/user/oalawrence

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Jenna Copley

Jenna Copley competes in affiliated show jumping on her own Harvest Paladin - a 16hh Selle Francais cross native, homebred Grade C. The combination were placed at the Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships 2009 in the Cyclo-ssage 1m class and have qualified for the 1m Blue Chip championships 2010.

Aims for the future
Short term - qualify for Amateur Championshis in Aintree, move up to jumping Newcomers and try to qualify for the 1.10m 2010 Blue Chip Championships. Long term - move up to jumping Foxhunters, bring on my youngsters and start them BSJA.

Why horses? "They are such nice animals to work with, incredibly forgiving, they have a lot of "Grace"."
Biggest horsey bug bear? "Side reins - I cannot see why a fixed unforgiving aid is used, if a youngster trips they get jabbed in the mouth. I know a lot of respected people use them, but my view is perhaps they are preparing them for a life of heavy contact."
Worst horsey habit? "I hog my horses! Paladin has sweet itch so cannot grow a proper mane, his brother Peer got the same treatment after a neck cover rubbed out half his mane and I saw the light about not plaiting - pure laziness on my part!"
If not horses what? "If I didn't have horses I would be travelling the world I guess! Would be nice to go to some warm places after three depressing summers."
What could you not live without? "For me - Diet Coke, my nasty chemical habit as I don't drink tea or coffee. For the horses - Nettex Itch Stop for Paladin."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Holly Burton

Holly Burton competes in BE and BSJA classes with her horse Retinto Montenegro (Tinto) a 16hh, Lusitano x TB, 11yo grey gelding. He was bred by the Montenegro Stud in Portugal and his sire was Black Lawyer, a successful American race horse. "I bought him as an extremely green 5yo and have brought him up the grades to 1* BE and 1.20m BSJA."

This year Holly competed Tinto in their first CIC* at Burgie and moved up to jumping 1.20m BSJA classes. They have qualified for various championships over the years, including numerous times for the BRC National Horse Trial Champs at open level. Holly is aiming to improve their dressage and next year, get Tinto up to Grade B BSJA and compete in the CCI* at Blair. "At some point I intend to get a youngster and start this all over again!"

Why horses? "Why not? They teach you responsibility and disipline from a young age and keep you very grounded. I like how different horses are from one another and how you must adapt to get the best out of them."

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Grey horses - such an impractical colour, especially when they live out (I choose to keep all my horses out 24/7 all year round)."

Worst horsey habit? "I won't let anyone else tack up my horse or put on his boots before I ride, even if running late at an event. For my own piece of mind, I must do it myself."

If not horses what? "I can't answer that as I can't remember a time without horses!

What could you not live without? "Simple, a horse! I'm also supported by Jump Stack Ltd and Buff Neckwear."

Organic Horse Start Squad member: Georgina Rose

Georgina Rose competes three horses at the moment and turns her hand to virtually anything, show jumping, cross countr, one day events and working hunter classes.

Penny

14.1hh 13yo chestnut welsh x mare, competing locally in showjumping, cross country , eventing, working hunter and also long distance/pleasure rides. Competing 2'6-2'9, schooling 3-3'6 at home.
Just Call Me Al

13hh 3yo dark bay New Forest gelding, currently being broken with intention of showing in hand next season.
Merlins Magic

15.3hh 15yo black TB x Connemara gelding, currently not competing enjoys light schooling and hacking.

Georgina has already qualified for UK Riders, Cricklands and the Winter League Finals as well as being the manager of school showjumping teams. She is aiming to get experience competing more horses in a variety of discplines, and qualify her main pony for Cricklands again next year as well as studying for her BHS exams. Long term she plans to set up her own yard, with the ambition of teaching, liveries, and hopefully finding that special horse to affiliate and compete at a higher level.

Why horses?

"I've never wanted to do anything else, I love what I do with a passion and nothing else even comes close to the thrill of jumping and winning a class, or breaking a youngster knowing you're the first person to ever sit on his back. Doing anything else never occured to me!"

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Plaiting! Normally I don't mind but the pony I have at the moment has a huge thick fluffy mane and its a nightmare!"

Worst horsey habit? "My worst horsey habit would be spending too much time riding and not leaving enough time to do the chores!

If not horses what? "Honestly don't know, probably photography as I enjoy that as a hobby.

What could you not live without? "My horses and my mum and dad, as they have been a huge support and are putting everything into helping me towards a yard. If I had to choose a piece of equipment I could not live without it would be my Wintec 500 saddle, as its easy change gullet system is invaluable when breaking youngsters whose shapes change all the time!

Organic Horse Potential Squad member: Sarah-Jane Brown

Sarah-Jane Brown competes her own mare Sarnita at advanced level eventing as well as doing a small amount of show jumping and dressage. Sarnita is a 10 year old KWPN by Kingston and Sarah-Jane has been placed 7th at Weston Park in the CCI*, 8th at Sansaw in the CIC **, 7th Wilton Open Intermediate, 13th at Gatcombe in the Advanced section as well as being placed in the Grade C class at Royal Cornwall and winner of the British Dressage Medium level.

Sarah-Jane is aiming to improve her dressage and in 2010 compete at 3* level. She blames her mum for getting in to horses. "Mum rode, so it was her fault as I copied!"

Biggest horsey bug bear? "Having to work and not having a school where I keep the horses."
Worst horsey habit? "Not cleaning my tack often enough."
If not horses what? "Well a friend keeps suggesting budgies might be easier and cheaper but not sure it would have the same attraction."
What could you not live without? "The lorry, we would just never get anywhere."

Care for joints naturally...

Joint Power from Forest Farmacy’s new range of Organic Horse supplements is the first joint supplement of its kind, offering comprehensive joint care via an organic, entirely natural Power Powder, using herbs your horse would naturally source in the wild.

The main ingredients in Joint Power include Wild Sage, MSM, Glucosamine and Apium Seed – which when combined provide a daily supplement to help increase movement and mobility, reduce pain and inflammation, ease muscular aches and stiffness, support the lymphatic system, cleanse damaging toxins from the injury site, promote circulation, maintain flexibility and encourage optimum joint health and mobility.

Joint Power is ideal for horses that suffer from stiffness, muscle and tendon problems, ligament damage, those recovering from an injury, older horses showing signs of reduced mobility or just simply as a protective measure for those in harder work.

Joint Power contains 100% concentrated herbal goodness – meaning no unnecessary fillers or bulking ingredients – providing a product that really packs a punch. Containing Glucosamine – a vital ingredient in the production, maintenance and repair of cartilage as well as helping to form ligaments and tendons – and Apium Seed which helps to break down the crystal deposits around the joints, encourage soft cartilage to protect the joints as well as acting as a natural anti-inflammatory to remove excess fluid from the body.

Joint Power is priced at £32 for a 40 day supply and does not require a loading dose.

For more information tel: 0800 970 9421 or visit: http://www.forestfarmacy.com/

Organic Horse launches unique Performance Squad to help support riders across all disciplines...

Organic Horse provides a unique range of nutritional Power Powders that are totally organic and made from ingredients your horse would naturally source in the wild. The formulations are gentle enough for the most sensitive of equines, yet powerful enough to support peak optimum performance levels.

Organic Horse is keen to offer assistance to riders across all levels in all disciplines – which is why they have developed the Organic Horse Performance Squad.

Organic Horse believes that offering sponsorship in the form of products and discounts can make a difference to a wide variety of riders of mixed abilities and mixed ambitions. Organic Horse will be offering dedicated riders opportunities to receive different levels of support from the company dependant on competition level. In exchange they are asking for testimonials, feedback, exposure where possible and when relevant input in to their range of products.

The Organic Horse Performance Squad is looking for riders that compete at affiliated competitions in any discipline, from lower levels right up to international level. If you think you would be a valuable addition to the team, please send a brief resume along with a short paragraph explaining how and why you should be chosen to join the Organic Horse Performance Squad.

For further information on Organic Horse products or the Performance Squad tel: 0800 970 9421, visit http://www.forestfarmacy.com/ or email info@forestfarmacy.com.