Community/Charity, Events

Woof’n and Hoof’n Fall Festival

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Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011

We are looking forward to a great Fall Festival with over 25 rescue groups, numerous demonstrations by equine and canine experts, WKKT KAT COUNTRY (96.9) being with us from 11:00 – 1:00 doing a remote from the festival, a microchip clinic, equestrian poker run, contests, Santa pictures, vendors, concessions and lots more!

We are starting the festival at 9:00 with our first demonstration and would like for everyone to be set up before the demonstration begins. Demonstrations this year will be in a venue where Rescue groups and the public can see and participate.  See below for the list of demonstrations:

Mike Stine*Farrier  (9:00)

Greater Charlotte Shetland Sheepdog Club*Canine Agility * Let your pooch try! (9:30)

Jan Jaeger*Canine Good Citizen* Evaluations throughout the day (10:00)

Robert Roffman*Performance Massage for Equine  (10:30)

Continue reading Woof’n and Hoof’n Fall Festival →

*Featured/Spotlights, Community/Charity, Dressage, Driving, Endurance Riding, EQUUS Foundation, Eventing/H.T., National Horse Show, Para-Equestrian, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping, USEF, Vaulting, Western/Reining

The Final Round of America’s Favorite Equestrian Is Underway. Vote for Your Favorite!

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WESTPORT, CT – October 1, 2011 – The results of Round 4 of America’s Favorite Equestrian are in. Three equestrians in each of the eight disciplines that participated in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games have moved onto the Final Round.

“America’s Favorite Equestrian is an innovative and contemporary concept designed to engage the equestrian community,” said John Long, CEO, United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). “It is an exciting project to be a part of because the proceeds benefit so many worthy causes supported by The EQUUS Foundation.”

“Like any new program, getting the word out is always a challenge”, said Lynn Coakley, President, The EQUUS Foundation. “We hope that the America’s Favorite Equestrian program will help us build grass roots support within the equestrian community to improve the quality of life of horses and promote the use of horses to enrich the lives of those in need. A $5 donation multiplied by the many who already know the magical and powerful impact of horses in our lives will go a long way.”

Who Will Win?
Voting ends on October 31, 2011. America’s Favorite Equestrians will be selected based on the athletes with the highest number of votes recorded in each of the eight disciplines.

This is it! Keep Voting! All it takes is a $5 gift to The EQUUS Foundation to insure that your favorite is America’s favorite. Click here to see the equestrian entries and to vote.

Continue reading The Final Round of America’s Favorite Equestrian Is Underway. Vote for Your Favorite! →

*Featured/Spotlights, Classic Company, Classic Company, Competitions, Contributors/Press, Events, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Classic Company Launching New Winter Circuit for 2012

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Terry Brown and 2006 Horse of the Year Sequel. Photo © Flashpoint Photography

October 1, 2011 – Pensacola, FL – If you’re looking for a change from the same ole same ole in your winter showing plans, Classic Company president Bob Bell has the answer to your dilemma: three weeks of USEF AA rated Hunter/Jumper classes in Pensacola, FL at the Escambia County Equestrian Center from January 11th through the 29th.

This isn’t the first time Classic Company has visited Pensacola. Following hurricane Katrina’s visit in 2005 to the Gulf Coast and the damages at the Harrison County Equestrian Center in Gulfport, the 2006 Gulf Coast Winter Classics were invited by the Pensacola community to hold an abbreviated version of the annual winter circuit at the Escambia locale, rather than be forced to cancel the event altogether. “The facility, the staff, and the surrounding community were all so welcoming to us,” Bell said, “and our three weeks in Pensacola were simply wonderful. I’ve never forgotten their hospitality or how much exhibitors enjoyed the series, so when I learned of some open dates in their calendar my idea of new winter option became a reality.” Since Classic Company’s last visit, the facility has undergone a million dollar renovation along with new footing in the hunter rings.

The Pensacola series will offer an AA schedule similar to its larger sibling, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, which will kick off six weeks of exciting equestrian action in Gulfport, MS on February 8th and continue through March 18th.  Each week in Pensacola will feature a $25,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix and the USHJA National Hunter Classic along with an array of rated classes for both hunters and jumpers. And for those riders just starting out, the popular Opportunity Classes will be offered to provide a fun experience and introduction to horse showing.

Exhibitors can also count on some wonderful social gatherings during the three weeks. “We have a reputation here at Classic for throwing great parties and the Pensacola event will not be deprived of that!” Bell teased.

Prize list for both the Pensacola Series and the Gulf Coast Classics will be available in mid-November. For early reservations or additional information, please call the office at 843-768-5503 or visit us on the web at www.classiccompany.com and for great hotel or condo rates, contact www.equestriantravel.com.

Community/Charity, Equestrian Aid Found., National Horse Show

Equestrian Aid Foundation Upcoming Events

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We often hear from people asking us about attending events in their area and it is challenging to be everywhere we want to be. But, you’ll find that Texas, Georgia, Nevada, Florida, Kentucky and Tennessee are represented! If you’re hosting an event that you’d like to benefit EAF, let us know and we’ll help you make it a big success!

In Nov., we’ll be hosting a celebration and launch of EAF’s endowment program, which honors legendary horsemen Charlie Weaver. We’ll be at the Alltech National Horse Show in the Gracie Street Garden in Lexington, Ky., which seems natural as Charlie was so successful at the National Horse Shows of the past. Join us as we start a new chapter and be part of a legacy that continues to help those in need for years to come.

The EAF is proud to take part in two events coming in October, where we’ll be the beneficiary of silent auctions. The first is a country music party, auction and awards hosted by the Women’s Horse Industry Network. The second is a BBQ and auction held during the Southeastern Fall Classic Hunter Jumper Show’s mini prix near Atlanta. It will be exciting to share EAF’s mission and good works with new friends.

Make sure you catch the recaps of the first helmet incentive at the Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover and the 3rd Annual Play It Forward Poker Tournament at the High Roller Reining Classic. It’s always so much fun to see those highly competitive reining riders take it to the poker table! Visit our Facebook page to see some great shots from EAF Friend Alden Corrigan! This event would be impossible without her and Mandi Brumley of Brumley Management Group. Thanks to all for again putting on a terrific show and event. Special thanks to our sponsors FarmVet and an anonymous donor, and to all the wonderful companies that provided a fully stuffed goody bag for the players.

Equestrian Aid Foundation

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Dressage, Events, Media/Radio/TV Sources

Performance Division Off to a Running Start at Dressage at Devon

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Guy McLean

September 30, 2011 (Devon, Pa.) – Spectators at Dressage at Devon today had the chance to listen to step by step commentary provided by Dressage experts on Dressage at Devon Radio. This year’s event benefits from an expanded field of notable experts who are willing to share an insider’s perspective, adding engagement and enhancing interest for all levels of spectators. For the riders, experienced and novice alike, the educational opportunity is invaluable, as the listener gains real-time insight into the thought process of the judges.

“We call the ability to bring this type of event-based broadcast to individual spectators ‘edu-tainment’,” said Don Costanza, partner in the Fort Wayne, Indiana-based FLR Group. “It is well received by spectators because it brings an extra dimension to their experience.” The FLR Group provides the technology and the radios to make Dressage at Devon radio a reality.

Costanza was eager to express his appreciation for Dressage at Devon. ‘’We work with venues all over the country, but Devon has a special place in our hearts. The people are personable, friendly, and professional. This is one of the coolest places to be! We are humbled and honored to be invited back every year.”

Guy McLean, a Special Attraction

During the day, and continuing on throughout Saturday and Sunday, spectators will enjoy the incredible performances of Guy McLean. Guy and his equine partners – Hope, Seuel, Pride, and Spinnaby – have performed all over the world, winning the hearts and minds of thousands of equestrian fans. Guy was first seated on a horse at the tender age of 16 months and began training horses seriously at age 15. When asked how he accomplishes amazing equestrian feats, he uses two words: devotion and dedication. He simply wants to be the best equestrian he can be.

Continue reading Performance Division Off to a Running Start at Dressage at Devon →

Dressage, Eventing/H.T., FEI, Olympic Games, Show Jumping

Three Hundred Days to London 2012

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Lausanne (SUI), 1 October 2011 – Today, 1 October 2011, marks 300 days to go to the 2012 London Olympic Games where equestrian sport will celebrate its centenary on the Olympic Programme.

So far, teams and individual riders from 18 nations have qualified to compete in the three Olympic equestrian disciplines of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing.

Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Japan, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Ukraine and the USA will compete alongside host nation Great Britain.

To date, Germany and Sweden join host nation Great Britain in having qualified teams in all three disciplines.

In just two weeks, eyes will be turning to the 16th Pan-American Games (14 to 29 October) in Guadalajara (MEX), which will host team qualifiers for FEI Olympic Groups D (North America) and E (South and Central America). Two nations from these groups which have not yet qualified will be able to secure their spot in Eventing and Dressage and three teams will qualify in Jumping.

Continue reading Three Hundred Days to London 2012 →

*Featured/Spotlights, Competitions, Events, Hunter/Equitation, National Horse Show, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Nine Olympians Highlight Open Jumper Division at Alltech National Horse Show

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Laura Kraut. Photos © Erin Cowgill

Lexington, KY – September 30, 2011 – Nine Olympic veterans, including four gold medalists, highlight the talented roster of riders scheduled to compete at this year’s Alltech National Horse Show at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky on November 2-6, 2011.

This year’s debut event in Kentucky, designated a CSI-W 4*, will feature a big money Open Jumper division with over $370,000 in prize money, including the main event, the $250,000 Alltech National Horse Show Grand Prix, an FEI World Cup qualifier, on Saturday night. All in all, over $600,000 in prize money is up for grabs in November. “That brings this show on par or better than any show in North America, or any indoor show anywhere in the world,” noted show manager Hugh Kincannon.

American Olympians McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, Lauren Hough, Joe Fargis, Margie Engle and Todd Minikus will lead a stellar field of riders, representing eight different nations at this year’s show.

Currently ranked number two in the Rolex World Rankings, two-time Olympic Gold medalist McLain Ward will be joined by his Athens and Hong Kong teammate Laura Kraut. Joining this dynamic duo is veteran rider Joe Fargis who secured Olympic Gold in Los Angeles in 1984. Margie Engle and Lauren Hough, members of the United States Olympic team at Sydney, Australia are also scheduled to compete in Lexington.

Engle and Ward are currently ranked one-two on the list of all time grand prix wins in North America.

Continue reading Nine Olympians Highlight Open Jumper Division at Alltech National Horse Show →

*Featured/Spotlights, Breeds, Competitions, Dressage, Events

Dressage at Devon Breed Division Wraps Up as Performance Classes Begin on Day 3

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September 29, 2011 (Devon, PA) – It goes without saying that the people at Dressage at Devon – competitors and spectators alike – love horses.  But then there are the breeders that have chosen to specialize in a particular breed. All breeders have their own reasons for their choices.

L. Hunter Wilson, owner, trainer and rider from Margaux Tip LLC, based in Martinsburg, West Virginia, loves her Cleveland Bays.  The breed originated in England, where they were used for carriages and as fox hunters – in fact, they pulled the carriages to the hunt, did the hunt, and pulled them home again.

Wilson and her husband have bred Cleveland Bays for 12 years.  “My husband had a mare that was half Cleveland Bay and he fell in love with them – he made it his personal passion.  And passion is important with this breed.  Today it is estimated that there are only about 250 breedable pureblood Cleveland Bay mares in the world.

Another crowd-pleaser is the Haflinger – a relatively small horse, always a flaxen chestnut in color with distinctive gaits. The breed traces its ancestry to the Middle Ages and there are several theories for the breed’s origin.  But today, Chelsea Deephouse, Assistant Trainer at Dreamfield Manor Farm in Coopersburg, PA, just knows that she loves the breed.  “They’re smart and kind,” she said, pointing out that she has evented and done hunter classes as well as dressage – and done will – with her horses.

The individual classes showed off the beauty of 20 breeds including the Warmblood Horse of Trakehner Origin, the German Oldenburg Verband, Morgan, Rheinland Pfalz-Saar International, and even Spanish Mustangs.  And the day was not over yet as Dressage at Devon moved into the Performance Division.

Continue reading Dressage at Devon Breed Division Wraps Up as Performance Classes Begin on Day 3 →

*Featured/Spotlights, Championships, Competitions, Dressage, Driving, Events, FEI, JRPR

Pony Team USA Drives to Team and Individual Bronze Medal at the 2011 FEI Pony Driving World Championships

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Chef d’Equipe Chester Weber (far left) with Pony Team USA at the 2011 World Pony Driving Championships in Lipica, Slovenia. (Photo courtesy of Marie de Ronde-Oudemans)

Lipica, Slovenia (September 30, 2011) – The United States’ reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the sport of combined driving just got stronger thanks to a stellar performance at the 2011 FEI Pony World Driving Championships.  After the marathon, the US Pony Team was placed third and they defended that finish through the cones, bringing home the Team Bronze Medal.  Their total of 402.3 earned them the medal behind Germany with a 359.4 and The Netherlands with a 375.4.  Suzy Stafford, who was competing as an individual for the United States, brought home her second consecutive Individual Bronze Medal after a brilliant cones phase boosted her from fourth to third.  Stafford won an Individual Bronze Medal in Germany in 2009 and an Individual Gold Medal at the 2005 World Pony Driving Championships in England.

Chef d’Equipe Chester Weber was pleased with the US Teams’ successes.  “The single Pony and Pony Pairs and pony teams all put in excellent performances here in Lipica,” Weber stated.  “Team Bronze is a fantastic achievement for the Pony Team, and is highlighted by Stafford’s Individual Bronze Medal.  The Pairs Team also had a great show, and both Teams gained invaluable experience showing and training on the international level.”

Weber, who finished second in the FEI World Cup Standings this year for Four-in-Hand Combined Driving, also served as Chef d’Equipe for the Pony Team in 2007 and 2009, and this was his first year as Chef for the Pairs Teams.  Weber is a seasoned international competitor in the Four-in-Hand, and returned to the States to win the US Four-in-Hand Reserve National Championship.  While competing in Europe he was mentored by the US Four-in-Hand Chef d’Equipe, Ed Young.  “I have been working with Ed since 2006, and with Michael Young, the Team Coach, since 1998,” Weber said.  “We were determined to use our knowledge and experience to improve the US Pony and Pairs Teams, and I think we did just that.  My hopes were that we could create a medal finish for the US while exposing our drivers to the sport at the highest level and increasing their depth of experience.  Clearly the standings for both Teams and Suzy Stafford medaling in the individual competition are a mark of our success.”

For more information on the US Pairs and Pony Team and results from Lipica, visit http://usefnetwork.com/featured/2011DrivingWorldChampionships/. For more information on Weber and his combined driving team, visit their website at www.chesterweber.com.

For more information contact:
Chester Weber
chester@chesterweber.com
www.chesterweber.com
1-352-895-1139

Contributors/Press, Equine Assisted Therapy, Publications/Media

Equine Therapy: A Testimonial, by Claire Dorotik

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For many people, horses themselves are a bit esoteric, and equine therapy is even more so. And for those of us who practice such an experiential modality, verbal explanations can sometimes be challenging. Yet clearly for those who have been helped by way of the horse, equine therapy is a very powerful tool. In order to help demonstrate the efficacy of horses from the perspective of a client, I have dedicated this blog entry to the following testimonial:

Hi Claire,

A few months ago you commented on a video posted on my hometown’s news website.  It was for Equine Therapy at the Trinity Equestrian Center here in Eau Claire, WI.  It just so happens I was looking to do EAP for I am a Veteran with PTSD.  I was a bit reluctant to try it because it was very different than anything else I have ever tried.  In your note, you had your website address.  I viewed your articles and learned a lot about EAP and decided to “Run with it.” (Sorry, I couldn’t resist.)

I just want to say thank you.  It is clear that you have a passion for what you do and reading your material helped be take that step.  EAP has changed my life.  I never knew I would have the connection that I have with horses like I do now.  It is something I can’t explain, but it is powerful.  I have long struggled with PTSD, but EAP has dramatically improved my ability to manage it.  I used to never really notice horses.  Now I see them all the time driving through the Wisconsin countryside.  I even got my wife hooked!

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you.  Your work helped convince me to change my life.  I plan on informing many people of EAP when I do public speaking.  I used to go through Agoura and Ventura when I went to Santa Barbara.  Beautiful country there and I will be finally returning there to visit old Marine/Navy friends.  Friends that may also need EAP.  I plan on informing them of EAP based on my experiences and knowledge gained from your website.  Thanks again!

As more people share experiences with horses such as the one above, in time, hopefully the horse will retain his mysticism, yet the understanding of just what equine therapy can offer be more clearly understood.

Your Southern Source for Everything Horse

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