Fleet Footing International is now a sponsor for two USDF shows held at Canterbury. Back in February the new fiber was put into ring 1 and two warm up rings and the competitors are just raving about it.
Canterbury was always nice; however, under very rainy conditions, the rings outside would get tough to ride in. Now they are useable in all weather.
Manager Wendy Low said this is the best type of fiber to mix with existing sand areas she has ever seen. “We are fortunate to have this available at a very reasonable price. We had estimates from a few footing equine companies and it was way out of reach for us. But this was in our budget.”
The fiber is tilled in with the existing sand top layer and then rolled and watered. The result is a springy, carpet like ride. The horses love it.
William Solyntjes, USDF clinician and “S” judge, said at the Twice As Nice Show, “After an all night rain and well into the morning, riders at the Canterbury show found the footing to be secure. The fiber seems to soak up the moisture and keep its integrity. Not one horse slipped and I was able to give many 8s and even some 9s because of the resilient and safe footing. Horses stayed soft in the back and showed elastic gaits.”
This certainly made the dressage folks happy. The jumpers love it as well. With first morning maintenance the ring lasts all day without needing drags. The usual holes in front and behind the jumps are non-existent. Maintenance manager Lee Ferguson says his job is cut in half. Part of that is also due to the purchase of a Roto-groomer manufactured at Reist Industries. Specifically made for fiber surfaces this attachment professionally grooms an arena in 1/3 the time, thus saving money over the long run.
The invitation is open for folks to come school and try it out. Canterbury allows outside horses during the weekdays to come and ride for a mere $10 grounds fee. So if you want to lose the dusty, deep or hard arena at your place come test ride on ours and Wendy will help you get started to a truly nice arena. You can call her at 352-472-6758.
Wendy Low
Manager
Canterbury Showplace, Inc.
23100 W. Newberry Road
Newberry, FL 32669
www.canterburyshowplace.com
352-472-6758