Tag Archives: featured

Training/Clinics

Stress Management for Horse and Rider

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Heike Kemmer mounted and Mary Ann Simonds.

The ABCs of Horse-Human Connection & Communication

Whole Horse, Whole Rider Series Final Talk at Whole Foods Wellington

Thursday March 21, 2013
6:30-8:00 pm – Lifestyle Room
2635 State Road 7 Wellington, FL 33414

You won’t want to miss the last talk in our Whole Horse, Whole Rider Series as we integrate and demonstrate simple tips to keep you and your horse stress free. The series has been sponsored by Whole Foods Market Wellington and the Whole Horse & Equestrian Science Institute as a way of bringing together the equestrian community with the wellness lifestyle. “There are many equestrians who shop at Whole Foods and we wanted to provide an opportunity for some of the good trainers and riders to share their philosophies about what they are doing to keep their horses and themselves healthy,” said Mary Ann Simonds, Director of the Whole Horse & Equestrian Science Institute.

As athletes and social mammals, horses and humans share a number of “stressors” from separation and traveling to performance anxiety and environmental toxins. These stressors often go unnoticed until there is a breakdown such as a physical injury, adrenal exhaustion or behavioral issue. So understanding all the options you have to assist yourself and your horse to manage stress was a key focus.

“After the season opened at WEF with the ‘Lunch and Learn’ talk I did on Stress Management for Horse and Rider, it seemed like a nice way to wrap things up with a continuation of the talk at Whole Foods focused more on what both horse and rider could do daily to manage their stress and stay balanced. We have some great people doing wonderful things to help their horses and I wanted a way to share what they were doing. Whole Foods Market has been a perfect partner to bring awareness to the equestrian community and blend healthy lifestyle thinking for horses and people,” Mary Ann said.

Paulo Santana and Taloubet, "de-stressing " together
Paulo Santana and Taloubet, “de-stressing” together

We’ve had a great series of guest speakers with Geoff Teall & Paulo Santana, addressing Equestrian Philosophy, Jean-Peiere Hourdebagt, & Dr. Beverly Gordon, addressing the body, and Liz Olszewski and Lisa Lewis-Green, addressing the emotions. Now we will integrate and have some fun discussing things people can do for themselves and their horses to reduce and manage stress.

Join us in a discussion of how to stay balanced in an unbalanced world.

Learn how to “breath” with your horse.
Slow down your brain waves, connect and communicate with your horse.
Feel energized and identify stress before it has a negative impact.

We will also discuss various herbs, smells (aromatherapy) and essences (flower essences) that can calm you and your horse. And we will explore how simple “tapping”, light or music can relax and ease stress away. We will touch on what environmental stressors such as electro-magnetic fields or toxins can do and what are the options to balance their affects.

Come have fun, eat some wholesome food and learn simple ways to balance you, your horse and any other animals you may have in your life.

Mary Ann Simonds, MA, an equine behavioral ecologist/ethologist, has been working for over 35 years in the horse industry researching and teaching people simple ways to better understand, train and reduce stress in horses. She founded the Whole Horse & Equestrian Science Institute in 1985 in California and has sponsored hundreds of educational events and clinics. Pioneering the field of “equestrian psychology” and human-animal interaction science, she did her graduate research on the horse-human relationship. An author, clinician and educator, her books are published in German, but she has a number of other educational products, which are in English. She also developed the Natural Vibrations line of stress management products for Toklat Originals and continues to do research on the best ways to help horses and humans. For more information, you can go to www.maryannsimonds.com or read her blog “Between the Ears” at Sidelines: http://sidelinesnews.com/blogs/betweentheears/.

Please RSVP either at Whole Foods Market by calling 561 904-4000 and leave message at front desk if you want to attend or contact:

Mary Ann Simonds – 360 907-4591 or maryann.simonds@gmail.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Hunter/Equitation, Phelps Media Group, Show Jumping

Nordic Lights Farm Claims Top Honors during WEF IX

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Peter Pletcher and NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythm earned the High Performance Working Hunter Reserve Championship during WEF IX. Photo By: Emily Riden/PMG.

Wellington, FL – March 13, 2013 – Nordic Lights Farm was once again at the top of the standings during the ninth week of the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival. Peter Pletcher kicked things off with the reserve championship award during the High Performance Working Hunters aboard NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythm. Eirin Bruheim then showcased her new mounts NLF Newsflash and NLF Billy On Show in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers. Lauren Hough concluded the week by qualifying for the jump-off during the $82,000 Suncast 1.50m Jumper Classic with Tackeray, and eventually placed eighth.

Pletcher and NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythm have earned leading hunter awards at the nation’s top events, and Week Nine of the Winter Equestrian Festival proved to be no exception. Competing in the Gold Coast Feed High Performance Working Hunters, they picked up a second and third place ribbon over fences, as well as second place ribbon in the stake class and a fourth place ribbon in the handy class. Their efforts in the ring were honored with the division’s reserve championship tricolor.

“NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythym was really good,” noted Pletcher. “He hadn’t done the High Performance in almost as year because I was just showing him in the 3’6″ Performance Hunters, but he seemed to be getting a bit bored. I thought it might be a good strategic plan for the up-and-coming derbies. We’re in Houston now, gearing up for the USHJA International Hunter Derby events during Pin Oak and Spring Gathering.”

Eirin Bruheim and NLF Newsflash competed in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers during WEF IX. Photo By: SportFot
Eirin Bruheim and NLF Newsflash competed in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers during WEF IX. Photo By: SportFot

Eirin Bruheim and her newest mount NLF Newsflash made their competition debut this week in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers. Competing in the speed class, they jumped each fence without fault and raced through the timers in 67.317 seconds to claim the third place award. Bruheim also competed with NLF Billy on Show in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers. The pair produced a double clear effort, completing the jump-off in 37.349 seconds for the sixth place honors. Bruheim and her veteran ride NLF Trans Atlantic represented Nordic Lights Farm in the Low Amateur-Owner Jumpers, where they were also double clear for the seventh place ribbon.

“It was an excellent week for me and my horses,” expressed Bruheim. “I finally started showing NLF Newsflash. He ended up third in the Medium AO Jumpers, which I though was great for our first week together. I showed NLF Billy on Show in the Medium AOs as well, and we were double clear in the first class and made it to the jump-off in the Classic. Next week he’ll be ready to do the Highs! NLF Trans Atlantic was also very good and he gets the next week off to bathe in the Florida sun. Overall, I am so happy with the way my string of horses is shaping up. I have some amazing mounts and it is always a joy to show them!”

Olympian Lauren Hough wrapped up the weekend for Nordic Lights Farm riding Tackeray in the $82,000 Suncast 1.50m Jumper Classic. The pair was clear over Steve Stephen’s technical first round track to advance to the tiebreaker. They incurred eight faults during the speed round, which was good enough for the eighth place prize.

Nordic Lights Farm will continue showing at the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. Bruheim and Hough will compete in the jumper divisions with their talented mounts, and Pletcher will return to the derby ring with NLF Shakespeare’s Rhythm later in the season.

Nordic Lights Farm is a 70-acre establishment located in Tomball, TX, that was founded in 2007 by the Bruheim family to help further the equestrian goals of 20-year-old Eirin Bruheim and 18-year-old Lene Bruheim. Both girls have worked their way up through the ranks and are currently competing at the top levels in the hunter and jumper divisions aboard their incredible string of horses.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Stadium Jumping Announces Updated Exhibitor Information for Tampa Equestrian Series

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Tampa, FL – March 13, 2013 – The Tampa Equestrian Series is pleased to announce that they have extended the closing date for entries and stall reservations following the news of the quarantine being lifted at HITS Ocala and other quarantined facilities. Riders and trainers that were uncertain about their showing plans may still contact Stadium Jumping to reserve stalls.

With the good news out of Ocala, Stadium Jumping has modified the requirements for horses entering the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Horses will be required to have a current health certificate or a certificate of veterinary inspection on a licensed veterinarian letterhead. Vaccinations must be up to date.

The Tampa Equestrian Series will strive hard to keep all its attending horses safe and healthy while they compete at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Management will provide temperature charts to all exhibitors upon arrival with instructions on charting temperatures twice daily.

The two-week equestrian event will be held at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, FL. The Tampa Equestrian Series also features the 41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational presented by G & C Farm, held under the lights at Raymond James Stadium on April 6, 2013. The world’s top equestrians will come together for Tampa Equestrian Series’ two weeks of competition, held from March 27 – April 6, 2013, to vie for the winning titles at this prestigious event.

To reserve stalls, please contact:
Michael Morrissey
941-915-3449
Michael.Morrissey@StadiumJumping.com

The Tampa Equestrian Series will kick off its two weeks of competition with the Tampa Bay Classic, which is scheduled for March 27-31, 2013. It will include the $25,000 Tampa Bay Welcome Stake on Friday, March 29, and the $35,000 Grand Prix of Tampa on Sunday, March 31. The ‘AA’-rated hunters will also be featured with divisions for professionals, juniors, and amateur-owners.

The Tournament of Champions is next, and will be held April 2-6, 2013. The $10,000 American Invitational Stake Class will be held on Thursday, April 5. The 41st $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational, presented by G&C Farm, which will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium. America’s “Super Bowl of Show Jumping” is a historic event, which brings together the top horse and rider combinations in the world. Invitations for the event are extended to the top thirty equestrians on the USEF National Computer Ranking List, plus past and present Olympians and other top invitees.

Annually, this event showcases exhilarating equine power, amazing speed and agility, and equestrian excellence at the home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The day is filled with extraordinary entertainment and activities for the entire family to enjoy.

The Mane Event Kick-Off Party will start at 4:00pm in Lot 5 of Raymond James Stadium with great fun for kids of all ages. There will be face painting and a Horseless Horse Show presented by JustWorld International, as well as autograph and photo opportunities. The gates open at 6:00 pm. with a traditional course walk for the public. The Opening Ceremonies get underway at 7:00 p.m. with the Parade of Tampa Equestrian Festival Series Champions and a special tribute to “Our Heroes.” The first horse will show over the course beginning at 8:00 p.m. as they compete for the winning honors.

Tickets for the Saturday night spectacular are on sale now, online at: www.stadiumjumping.com. Ticket prices $30, $25, $15, Group Discounts for 10 or more persons.

For more information on Stadium Jumping, Inc. and the 2013 Tampa Equestrian Series, please call (941) 744-5465 or please visit www.stadiumjumping.com.

For accurate and up to date information on EHV-1 in Florida, go to the State of Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Industry website at http://www.freshfromflorida.com/ai/pdf/EHVWebsiteUpdate.pdf.

The Tampa Equestrian Series and the 41st Annual $200,000 American Invitational Fast Facts

WHAT: Two-week hunter/jumper horse show circuit produced by Stadium Jumping, Inc. and the 41st Annual $200,000 American Invitational presented by G&C Farm, which features the world’s best equestrian athletes. Information is available online at www.stadiumjumping.com.

WHERE:
Tampa Equestrian Series:
Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds
4800 North US Highway 301
Tampa, FL 33680
www.stadiumjumping.com

41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational:
Raymond James Stadium
4201 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa, FL 33607
www.raymondjamesstadium.com

WHEN: Daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tampa Classic – March 27-31, 2013
Tournament of Champions – April 2-6, 2013
41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational CSI 3* – April 6, 2013, 7 p.m.

HIGHLIGHTS:
Thursday, March 28: $25,000 Tampa Bay Welcome Stake
Sunday, March 31: $35,000 Grand Prix of Tampa
Thursday, April 4: $10,000 American Invitational Stake
Saturday, April 6, 7 p.m.: 41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational CSI 3*, presented by G&C Farm.

American Invitational Highlights:
To kick off the evening activities, the public is invited to participate in the traditional American invitational course walk. This is an opportunity for spectators to marvel at the size and breadth of the jumps equestrians will navigate their horses over.

Sponsorship and Tickets:
Corporate and individual sponsors may participate at any level. Tickets are $15-$30. Senior citizens, active duty members, and group discounts are available. For more information on sponsorship levels or to purchase tickets, please call 1.800.237.8924.

About the American Invitational:
The 41st annual American Invitational, one of the world’s richest equestrian show jumping competitions, has been held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida since 1971.The Invitational is the only major equestrian competition to be held in a NFL football stadium.

Directions:

From Tampa or St. Pete/Clearwater via I-275 to I-4 Eastbound
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: From I-4 Eastbound only, take Exit #6 for Orient Rd. and turn right off the ramp. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance immediately on the left-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

From Lakeland/Orlando area via I-4 Westbound
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: Travel on I-4 West toward Tampa to Exit #7 toward US-92 W / HILLSBOROUGH AVE and merge onto E. HILLSBOROUGH AVE. Proceed to the light at Orient Road and turn left. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance on the left-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

Traveling from I-75 North/South (from Ocala/Sarasota area)
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: Traveling north on I-75, take Exit #260 (B) and merge LEFT onto DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD (aka SR-574 West). Traveling south on I-75, take Exit #260 and merge RIGHT onto DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD. Go west for 2.5 miles and pass the light at U.S. Hwy. 301. Keep proceeding on MLK, Jr. Blvd. to the next light which is ORIENT RD. Make a right at Orient Road. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance on the right-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

THE FACILITY:
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Outdoor Stadium Arena 150′ x 360′ Bermuda sod grass

HOTELS:
Hilton Garden Inn
10309 Highland Manor Drive
Tampa, FL
(813) 626-6700

La Quinta Inn East Fairgrounds
4811 U.S. 301 North
Tampa, FL
(813) 623-3321
(800) 642-4271

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Tampa
5223 North Orient Road (next to showgrounds)
Tampa, FL
(813) 627-7625

SpringHill Suites
4835 W. Cypress Street
Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 639-9600
(888) 236-2427

STADIUM JUMPING INC.: Corporate Office
1301 Sixth Ave. West, Suite 406
Bradenton, FL 34205
Tel: 941-744-5465
Fax: 941-744-0874

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12230 Forest Hill Blvd.
Suite 214
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
http://www.phelpsmediagroup.com

April Wehle, Stadium Jumping, Inc.
561.459.9259
email: aprilw@stadiumjumping.com

Dressage, Training/Clinics

Spanish Riding School Clinic in FL

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The Spanish Riding School of Vienna has stood for equestrian tradition and perfection for over 430 years. It is the only institution in the world which preserves to this day the classical art of the Haute École which began in the Renaissance.

The “Spanish” part of its name stems from the Spanish horses ‘the ancestors of the Lipizzaners’ which were much sought after in the royal court at that time.

The equestrian Haute École dates back to the classical art of riding practiced in Greece, which was rediscovered at the end of the 15th and in the early 16th centuries. With the Renaissance came a whole new lifestyle in the dynasties of Europe, which naturally included a new equestrian style different to that which had been practiced in the Middle Ages.

From about 1562, Spanish horses were bred systematically by the Archduke Maximilian, who later became Emperor Maximilian II. This Habsburg ruler founded the first Imperial Stud in 1564 at Kladrub in Bohemia. Archduke Karl II, a brother of Emperor Maximilian, was also very interested in breeding Spanish horses and founded the Imperial Karst Stud near Lipizza in 1580.

Although it is still not known when exactly the first “Spanish Riding School” was built, various documents indicate that this may have been in the year 1572. However, it was more than 100 years later, between 1729 and 1735, that Emperor Karl VI commissioned Josef Emanuel Fischer von Erlach to build the baroque Winter Riding School which is world famous today and which has remained the home of the Spanish Riding School. This magnificent hall has a varied and interesting past, and was not only used for riding and training the white stallions. After the death of Karl VI in 1740, it was a perfect setting for jousting contests, carousels, and masked balls. During the Vienna Congresses particularly (1814-1815), the Spanish Riding School inspired an international audience of the most influential politicians. In the year of the revolution, 1848, meetings were held in the Riding School between the citizens of Vienna and the Reichstag.

Today, the Lipizzaner stallions of the Spanish Riding School can be seen almost every day during Morning Exercises as well as once a week at a gala performance in the Winter Riding School. (taken from Chronicle of the Horse website)

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the world which has practiced for over 440 years and continues to cultivate classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école.

The objective of classical equitation is to study the way the horse naturally moves and to cultivate the highest levels of haute école elegance the horse is capable of through systematic training. The result creates an unparalleled harmony between rider and horse, as only Vienna’s Spanish Riding School achieves. (taken from www.srs.at)

Bereiter Marius Schreiner, of the famed Spanish Riding School, will be returning for a 3rd time to the Brevard Equestrian Center to help Head Trainer, Lisa Smit, with her Grand Prix prospect, Ubilee II, along with 9 other lucky horse/rider combinations who will apply to ride.

Audit privileges are $30/day including lunch.
Bronze sponsors will receive 5 audit passes as well as placement on the web site (www.brevardec.com) and mention at the clinic for $175.
Silver sponsors will receive Bronze sponsor privileges, 5 passes to the Sunday evening social with Herr Schreiner and the riders, and the ability to place a sign or banner either at the entrance or the arena for $225.
Gold sponsors will receive Silver sponsor privileges as well as the ability to provide promotional items to the attendees for $300.
Sponsor money will be used to cover the cost of flights for Herr Schreiner, food at the clinic and the social Sunday evening, as well as Herr Schreiner’s day fees.

We look forward to making this a community event and introducing the general population to what we do here every day at Brevard Equestrian Center!

Sincerely,
Lisa Smit

*Featured/Spotlights, Art/Photography

Photography Masters Cup Honors Equine Photographer Diana De Rosa

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LONG ISLAND, NY – March 12 – Professional photographer Diana De Rosa was presented with the 6th Annual Photography Masters Cup Nominee title in the category of Sport at a prestigious Nomination & Winners Photoshow. The live online ceremony webcast was attended by photography fans in 86 countries who logged on to see the climax of the industry’s most important event for color photography.

The awards international Jury included captains of the industry from Phillips de Pury & Company in New York; Kunst Licht Gallery, Shanghai; XPO Gallery, Paris; Tasveer Galleries, India; BFN, Netherlands; to BBH in London who honored Color Masters with 239 coveted title awards in 18 categories.

“It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the 8,521 entries we received this year,” said Basil O’Brien, the awards Creative Director. “Diana De Rosa’s photo ‘Horse Elegance’ is an exceptional image entered in the sport category and represents contemporary color photography at its finest. We’re pleased to present Diana with the title of Nominee.”

“I am thrilled to have achieved this honor,” De Rosa remarked. “My passion for photography has taken me all over the world. This photo was taken during the Alltech World Equestrian Games when it was held in my own country in the state of Kentucky. To be recognized for my photography internationally is extremely rewarding. I post a lot of my photography for people to view on my web site, www.dianaderosa.com, so that others can share in the beauty of the horse.”

colormaster_nominee-blkTo see the winning photo online, visit: Masters Cup Photo.

INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS, PHOTOGRAPHY MASTERS CUP is the leading international award honoring excellence in color photography. This celebrated event shines a spotlight on the best professional and amateur photographers worldwide and honors the finest images with the highest achievements in color photography. www.photomasterscup.com.

Contact: Press Link
Telephone: 516-848-4867
Email: dderosa1@optonline.net
Website: www.dianaderosa.com

Products/Services

Minnesota Horsewoman Invents a New Horse Product and Learns a Surprising Lesson

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March 10, 2013 – Minneapolis, Minnesota – Have you ever had an idea that made you say, “Hey, I should invent this!”? Well, I did. And I did! Or, more precisely, I am in the process of bringing my invention to life.

If you’re like me, you’ve walked or stood around in cold weather with your horse covered in a traditional cooler for up to an hour, waiting for him or her to dry, only to find that once the cooler has “dried” your horse, you have to spend another 15-20 minutes toweling off his or her belly and chest before you feel comfortable putting him out. And even then, you wonder, “Is he dry enough? Is she going to get sick?”

I have been training horses and teaching lessons in Minnesota for almost 10 years now. One of my least favorite things became waiting around in the freezing cold for the last horse I rode to dry. At one point, I even brought a hair dryer out to the barn to try to speed things up. Of course I’ve tried just about every cooler out there but the problem was always the same. The horse would never be completely dry. Regardless of what brand of cooler I used, or the material it was made from, two parts of the horse’s body that get the most sweaty, the belly and the chest, would always still be wet. I would then have to spend another 10-15 minutes toweling off these areas after I’d already waited up to an hour for the rest of the horse to dry. All of this while it’s freezing cold outside!

In February 2012, I got out one of my stuffed horses and cut up some old towels and set out to make a prototype of a cooler that would cover the areas that traditional coolers miss. After the stuffed pony, my real horse kindly stood tied for hours on different occasions with me cutting up thrift store sheets and pinning them on him in different ways. With help from a friend with sewing skills, these sheets became a home-sewn, polar fleece prototype of the WikSmart Cooler (patent pending).

frontviewhorizontalnewestSince then, I have been on a year-long, wild ride that has included many middle-of-the-night-wake-up-and-jump-on-the-computer-brainstorming-sessions that leave me zombie-like during the day. I have taken a business class and done massive amounts of research into patents, patterns, textiles, manufacturing, and licensing. I have come a long way since that original homemade prototype. WikSmart coolers are now made of a very heavy, 360 g polar fleece and manufactured in the US with all of the parts being of the highest quality. They are extremely soft and beautifully made.

I am now at the point where I am venturing into acquiring the start-up capital I need to get to making these coolers in large quantities. In my business class, we learned that crowd fund raising is a popular trend and a financially safe way of gaining capital. Throngs of people are launching and contributing to campaigns for everything from paying for Aunt Paula’s knee surgery to paying for Jamar’s college to small business start-ups and promoting new inventions. The basic premise of many of the campaigns for start-ups is to get pre-orders for your product, thereby providing you with the capital you need to get your product on the market.  I recently launched a campaign on Indiegogo.com to promote my invention and to help me turn it into a small business.

The most amazing thing I have learned from doing this so far is about the kindness and generosity of people. Trust me; I am more fond of animals than people so I am not one to say this lightly. People can be very harsh, especially in the way they treat animals, but I am re-discovering that they can also be very kind.  For example, I have relied heavily on friends with the skills to help me get my project going. I have a friend who is a video editor edit my campaign video, another friend who is a graphic designer made me a logo, and another friend who is a photographer took pictures for me. All for free. Strangers have even contributed financially and by spreading the word about my campaign on social networking sites.

opensideviewnewestPeople I didn’t know at all and those I hardly knew spent a lot of time and effort trying to guide me the right way in all kinds of directions by giving advice, being honest but polite, sharing all kinds of experience and knowledge that might help me, and just generally trying to help. Even people who may perceive me as a potential competitor or threat and who have extremely busy lives and jobs said I could call or email anytime if there was anything else they could help me with. The owner/operator of a very well-known horse product catalog that sells its own brand of blankets did this for me. It is amazing the support people are willing to give. In some ways, this recessed economy has reverted us back to a time when everyone pitched in to help. These experiences have renewed my hope for and faith in humanity.

To preorder your own WikSmart Cooler or to contribute to the campaign which ends March 27th, 2013, visit the Indiegogo campaign at http://igg.me/p/325207/x/2259717.

After that, visit us at www.wiksmart.com or www.facebook.com/wiksmart.

Contact: Misty Caston
CEO
WikSmart Coolers
612-423-9774
wiksmartcoolers@gmail.com

Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping, Training/Clinics

From Blue Ribbons to Babies, Things Are Bouncing at Brawley Farms

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Bob Brawley and DDM Equestrian’s Obelix © Flashpoint Photography.

Argyle, TX – March 12, 2013 – After welcoming a brand new baby boy, Lucas Henry, into their lives in January, Bob and Dana Brawley greeted the horse show season ready for adventure. Their family-run Brawley Farms, based in Argyle, Texas, offers training for riders at all levels. With an emphasis on a diverse show schedule they travel to many of the top horse shows throughout the country. Following a fantastic 2012 season, the Brawleys jumped right into the winter circuit in Gulfport, bringing home the blues with baby Lucas along for the ride.

“Gulfport is a great place to start the year,” Dana remarked. “We are on the road for about 25 weeks out of the year and love when people join us along the way. It not only grows our horse show family, but also gives Bob an opportunity to offer his expertise to a diverse group.”

The show schedule, including Lexington, KY; Traverse City, MI; Katy, TX; Tyler, TX; Upper Marlboro, MD; and Las Vegas, NV, offers a chance to enjoy great locations as well as achieve yearlong goals. Brawley Farms invites riders to experience a top-notch training curriculum by joining them and taking part in their unique, family-oriented program.

Head trainer Bob Brawley has over 30 years of success on the hunter/jumper circuit. He started showing and training in Oregon under the guidance of his mother, Judy Brawley. Together they ran a show barn that included a string of hunters and jumpers for juniors and amateurs. In 2003, Bob moved to Southern California to establish his own training stable. The result was a flourishing business that led to multiple USEF Zone 10 and Pacific Coast Horse Shows Association year-end awards. In 2011, he relocated to Texas and in just two years, his new horses are Texas Hunter Jumper Association, USEF Zone 7, and USEF National award winners. Bob is known for his classic style, quality horsemanship, and unwavering attention to detail. He conveys these virtues to his students and horses, giving them the ability to have fun while they pursue successful show careers with confidence.

Developing Effective Riders and Horsemen

“I like to teach riders to really understand what is happening underneath them. I teach a lot about position, but it is more about a rider being in a good balance and helping the horse to jump its best,” Bob stated. “Regardless of whether the horse is a hunter or jumper, my goal is to develop riders who think and feel. That’s what makes effective riding.”

With an emphasis on the importance of horsemanship and matchmaking, Bob puts all the pieces together for each horse and rider combination.

“We have a really good work ethic in the barn, and I truly enjoy my job,” Bob explained. “We find the right horse for the right job, as good matches are extremely important. Once you have the right match, the addition of solid conditioning and a great learning environment are the keys to success.”

Bob Brawley and Amadeo, owned by DDM Equestrian © Shawn McMillen
Bob Brawley and Amadeo, owned by DDM Equestrian © Shawn McMillen

National Success

Everyone at Brawley Farms is still smiling about last season. DDM Equestrian’s Amadeo and Bob Brawley were named the 2012 USEF National Horse of the Year as well as the Texas Hunter Jumper Association year end champion in the Performance Working Hunter 3’6″ – 3’9″ division. This pair has also been in the top five six times and the top ten nine times in the USHJA International Hunter Derby series.

When asked about his exceptional year with Amadeo, Bob said, “He was just Mr. Consistency. He has a nice big stride and he is a very confident horse. His strength is generally in the handy round. When he makes the top 12 of the first round in a derby, he almost always moves up in the standings after the handy round.”

This versatile horse not only shined in the professional division but also competed successfully in the Modified Adults with his owner, Diane DeMatteo.

“I love Bob’s training methods. He treats the horses with respect and never asks them to do anything they can’t or shouldn’t do. The horses trust Bob and perform at their best, from Amadeo in the hunter derbies to Obelix in the grand prix ring. You can tell the horses enjoy their jobs,” DeMatteo explained. “With his students, Bob doesn’t emphasize winning as much as ‘riding your system’ and putting in the best ride for your horse. Winning Horse of the Year was an unexpected bonus.”

Brawley Farms welcomes some fabulous new matches to the barn. Congratulations to DDM Equestrian, LLC, on the purchase of Esso-L, the Torti Family on the purchase of Giselle, the Hurt/Pasternak Family on the lease of Bada Bing, and the Barnes Family on the lease of Monaco.

From a new baby to new mounts, 2013 is certain to be an exciting and fun filled year.

For inquiries, call Bob at (760)801-6655. Visit www.brawleyfarmsinc.com, with a redesigned site launching this spring.

Brawley Farms home base is situated on a beautiful 20-acre equestrian facility located in Argyle, Texas. The facility provides unsurpassed accommodations with three gorgeous barns and large, sheltered turnout paddocks. Permanent, matted box stalls are available for year-round boarding, and clients have access to two training arenas, multiple tack rooms, grooming stalls with vacuums, and ample storage areas. Caretakers live onsite providing 24-hour security and horse care.

© 2013 Jennifer Wood Media Inc. & EquestriSol

HITS, HITS, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Lisa Goldman Is Back on Top at HITS Ocala, Capturing the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix

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©ESI Photography. Lisa Goldman and Centurion B cruise their way to their third grand prix win of the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix.

OCALA, FL (March 11, 2013) – The weather was ideal and all conditions were in Lisa Goldman’s favor as she piloted Mary Goldman’s Centurion B to a win in the $50,000 Purina Animal Nutrition Grand Prix, presented by Zoetis, Sunday at HITS Ocala. After pocketing two grand prix wins earlier in the season, Goldman of Hawthorn Woods, Illinois and Centurion B conquered the jump-off and were the only pair to ride double-clear.

Sunday’s course was designed by Bernardo Cabral of Lisbon, Portugal. At the end of the first round, six advanced to the jump-off. “It was really challenging today,” said Goldman of the 13-obstacle, 16-jumping effort track in the first round. “I enjoyed the course though; it was big enough and there were enough that made it to the jump-off.”

First to return for the jump-off was Lauren Patava of Toronto, Ontario, Canada and Bonaventure Farms’ Sly. She was clear until the last fence – a tall plank – came down and finished with four faults in a time of 53.88 seconds, good enough for fifth.

The plank at the ninth and final effort off the jump-off was a tough code to crack for almost all of the jump-off contenders. Four of the six were clear until they approached it, and Goldman was the only rider to clear it.

Patty Stovel of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania and her own Carigor Z returned second in the jump-off and had a much faster pace, however, four faults in 51.00 seconds placed them third overall.

Goldman and Centurion B were next to show and as the crowd expected her to blaze around the course with characteristic speed, she instead chose the conservative route and focused on a clear round. She conquered the plank and crossed the finished line in 52.11 seconds with no faults and setting the Great American Time to Beat.

“I really like having a plank at the end,” said Goldman. “It’s a tough jump to keep up and always makes for an exciting jump-off.”

Adrienne Iverson of Redfield Farm in Califon, New Jersey and her own Sweetheart stepped up their game this season and found themselves in the ribbons yet again. The duo posted an eight-fault round in the fastest time of the day, 49.21 seconds, to finish in sixth place.

David Beisel of Goshen, Ohio and Equine Holdings, LLC’s Ammeretto made it to the jump-off for the fourth consecutive time this season. They crossed the finish line fractions of a second faster than Goldman, in 52.10, but the plank hit the ground for the fourth time, giving them four faults and a fourth place finish.

Last to show was Jordan Coyne of New Port Richey, Florida and her own Lazaro. Coyne, who trains with Derek Petersen, hoped to bring home another win for Legacy Farm. She had the win her crosshairs with seconds to spare as she approached the last fence, but the plank tumbled to the ground for the fifth time. Her time of 49.67 was good enough for second place.

The honors came in abundance for Goldman, who not only took home the first-place check for Sunday’s main event, but also received one ton of free feed from Purina Animal Nutrition for her efforts, as well as the Arenus All-Around Athlete Award. With three grand prix victories so far, Goldman’s circuit has been nothing short of spectacular.

“You always come into a circuit hoping for the best,” she said. “I’ve been very successful back home but this is my first time at a circuit in Florida and we’ve just had an amazing winter here. Today’s win was exceptionally special for me since my college equestrian coach, Stacey Sanderson, was here to watch.” Goldman rode in National Collegiate Equestrian Association competitions at Baylor University.

After her newfound success at HITS this winter, Goldman has the Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix on her radar. “We weren’t planning on making it to Championship Weekend in Saugerties initially, but now we are definitely planning on being there. I’m really excited to go to Saugerties for the first time. We also have a couple of children’s jumpers that will show in the USHJA [Children’s and Adult Amateur Jumper] Regional Championships that weekend.”

As the final week of HITS Ocala approaches, excited competition awaits. The $50,000 East Meets West Hunter Challenge will pit top hunter riders from Ocala against the top hunter riders from HITS Thermal in California for the biggest hunter purse of the season. On Sunday, the big-ticket season finale will give high-performance riders their last shot at show jumping glory in the horse capital of the world when the $100,000 Sullivan GMC Truck Grand Prix, presented by Great American Insurance Group, highlights another season at HITS Ocala. Veterans have moved aside this year for a crop of young, up-and-coming stars in the grand prix ring and they have now set the stage for the most exciting duel of the season.

©ESI Photography. Vanessa McCarthy and Halladay on course in the M&S $5,000 Junior Jumper Classic Low
©ESI Photography. Vanessa McCarthy and Halladay on course in the M&S $5,000 Junior Jumper Classic Low

Marshall & Sterling Insurance $5,000 Junior Jumper Low Classic
The Marshall & Sterling Insurance $5,000 Junior Jumper Low Classic got Sunday morning started as junior riders competed over another Cabral-designed course. Vanessa McCarthy took home top honors aboard Olivia Dorey’s Halladay. Second-place awards went to MacKenzie McGehee and Sweet Oak Farm’s Dexter, while Paige Mawson and Under Pressure, owned by Mawson Sport Horses took home the third-place ribbon.

Marshall & Sterling Insurance $5,000 Amateur Jumper Low Classic
Also on Sunday, the Marshall & Sterling Insurance $5,000 Amateur Jumper Low Classic welcomed Leigh Anne Hartrampf and Action Sport Horse Sales, LLC’s Callao to the winner’s circle. Emma Scudder and her own Flying Colors chased down second, while Juri Ito and Shangri La Stables’ Geppetto finished third.

HITS, Inc. • 319 Main Street • Saugerties, NY 12477-1330
845.246.8833 Tel • Media_Info@HitsShows.com • HitsShows.com

Classic Company, Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Theo Genn and Winchester Win the $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix of Gulfport

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Theo Genn and Winchester clear the Budweiser jump on their way to the winner’s circle yesterday. Flashpoint Photography.

March 11, 2013 – Gulfport, Mississippi – Theo Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, in the irons of Bridlebourne Stable LLC’s Winchester, rode away with the big check and first place in yesterday’s $50,000 Budweiser Grand Prix of Gulfport which wrapped up the 2013 Gulf Coast Circuit yesterday afternoon.

More than 3,500 spectators watched a field of 24 attempt the course set by noted course designer Allen Rheinheimer of Zionsville, Indiana, but only three emerged to the jump-off round.  Rheinheimer changed the course up for the grand finale.  “We used a few new jumps, like the casino jump, and some they haven’t seen in the triple combination that caused some problems.  The main thing was there was a different look to the field,” he said.  Fence 7 looked to be unlucky for half the class as most dropped a rail.  The skinniest fence with natural rails and two ponds, followed by a sharp left hand turn and a big three bar oxer, gave the horses a lot to look at.  “I couldn’t have gotten enough good reviews on the course from the riders, whether or not they won, they loved it,” he added.

First to go in the jump-off round was Bryn Sadler from Santa Fe, New Mexico, riding Bon Giorno, owned by Showcase 81, LLC.  The pair went clean and set the time to beat at 45.135 seconds.  Next to jump off was Devin Ryan, of Long Valley, New Jersey, riding Zosja, owned by Eagle Valley Partners.  Ryan looked to add another grand prix win to his list of winter achievements, but with four faults despite a fast time of 39.087 seconds, the pair would settle for third place overall.  Last to go in the jump-off was Theo Genn and Winchester.  The pair went clean and with a time of 41.276 seconds, bested Sadler’s time, putting her in second place and them in the winner’s circle.

“I was very excited to win and very relieved,” said Genn.  “I had been second weeks 1 through 4 and I really wanted to win, badly!  My horse deserved to win; he was incredible every week!  When we walked the course, it was really big and pretty technical too, but I had a good feeling about it.  The most difficult part for me was the triple combination.  There was an oxer, a one stride to a vertical and then another vertical.  It was a bending seven and depending on how you jumped in it could be really long or short — it was pretty tricky,” he said.

“I was happy to see Theo win,” said Rheinheimer. “He has been second quite a bit this circuit and he really deserved it.  It’s really great when people who support the show win.”

Devin Ryan and No Worries, owned by Barbara Rowland, finished fourth with a first round time of 87.538 seconds and four faults.  Holly Shepherd of Grand Bay, Alabama rode Triompf, owned by Loretta Patterson, to a fifth place finish with a first round time of 101.988 seconds and four jump faults.  Sixth place was Paradox, owned by Thomas Bruinsma and ridden by Theo Genn, in a first round time of 103.734 seconds with four jump faults and two time faults.  Devin Ryan returned in seventh place with Calissandro, owned by Barbara Drake and Ryan.  The pair turned in a first round effort with eight jump faults in a time of 90.018 seconds.  Eighth was H.J. El Magnifico, owned and ridden by Eduardo Braun of Bend, Oregon.  The pair turned in a first round time of 90.629 seconds with eight jump faults.  Ninth place went to Wilhelm Genn of Lebanon, Ohio in the irons of Nancy Gooding’s Palim Palim with eight jump faults in a time of 94.860 seconds. Tenth place was awarded to Vasco, owned and ridden by Jordan Siegel of Flower Mound, Texas, who turned in a first round effort in 95.001 seconds with eight jump faults.  Eleventh place went to Ryan Genn of Lebanon, Ohio, riding Wilhelm Genn’s Cookie Monster.  The pair turned in a first round time of 97.562 seconds and eight jump faults.  Jay Land wrapped up the class in twelfth aboard his and Kim Land’s Nepal with a time of 104.921 seconds, eight jump faults and three time faults.

“All of the horses jumped fantastic and the field held up magnificently well,” said Rheinheimer.  “This was such a perfect ending to a perfect circuit.  We had the biggest crowd we have ever had. There must have been 3,500 people at the show.  The parking lots were full, they were parked on the road, the stands were full and there was standing room only.”

Genn added, “The whole circuit was fantastic. The competition, the course designers, the jumps, the footing and the people, they are just amazing.  The exhibitors are a really great group of people and our horses did really well.  We had a great time and we’ll definitely be back next year!” he added.

The Gulf Coast Winter Classic in Gulfport is where the fun was all winter and hopefully you didn’t miss it! Mardi Gras’ festive atmosphere in neighboring New Orleans spills onto the show grounds, making this winter circuit the most fun in country. With its close proximity to the Gulf Coast beaches, class offerings, prize money, and social scene, the Gulf Coast Classic Company’s Gulfport shows are a must on everyone’s show list.  The show featured weekly $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derbies, the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, weekly grand prix schedule and generous Open Welcome Jumper classes.

Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest:  Classic Shows are FUN!  And, this year the fun continues at the Gulfport show with complimentary exhibitor parties, breakfasts, luncheons and office snacks to make your showing experience the best ever.

Classic Company never charges a scratch or add fee for those last minute adds and scratches, so if you haven’t entered yet, go to the prize list or simply click on Equestrian Connect to fill out your entry form and stabling requests.

Equestrian Connect is Classic Company’s Official Service Provider and allows exhibitors to store their data one time, on the web, and then use that data to automatically fill out hunter/jumper entry forms across the country.  The service offers a free 45 day trial period for new members.  At the conclusion of the trial period, Equestrian Connect offers an annual subscription, or a “pay as you go” service.    The service allows exhibitors to save both time and money.  This is the one-minute online entry service that will help you get your entries in on time and you to the show!

So, whether you are a seasoned veteran or a novice looking for a positive show experience, look to the Gulf Coast Classic shows in Gulfport, and let the good times roll!

The Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  For more information on Classic Company and its exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events, please visit them at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843-768-5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director at classicsponsorship@gmail.com.  All program advertising should be directed to Nate Poliquin, Program Sales Representative at classicshowads@yahoo.com.

Stay up to date:  Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter!

See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX:  (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311  Johns Island  SC 29457

Competitions, HITS, Hunter/Equitation

Rose Hill Stays Strong Taking Performance 3’6″ Hunter Reserve Championship during HITS Ocala VIII Winter Finals

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Jennifer Alfano and Rose Hill secured the Performance 3’6″ Hunters Reserve Championship during HITS VIII Ocala Winter Finals. Photo By: ESI Photography.

Ocala, FL – March 11, 2013 – Jennifer Alfano stole the limelight during Ocala HITS VIII Winter Finals this past week, earning numerous awards in the hunter rings with tricolor ribbons in every division. SBS Farms, Inc. has seen nothing short of success throughout the Ocala HITS circuit, with trainer Susie Schoellkopf and Alfano working side-by-side to ensure victories across the board. It was Rose Hill who snatched the Performance 3’6″ Hunter Reserve Championship, rising to the top of the leader board with ease.

The rose grey Dutch/Warmblood Thoroughbred is racking up the points in Ocala, and has been consistent throughout their stay. The mare already captured the $10,000 Devuocoux Hunter Prix with an impressive score of 89 during HITS V Ocala Winter Festival, and has only continued to excel. Her win earlier in the season solidified her return to the show ring after undergoing colic surgery in May 2012.

Affectionately known as Rosie, the 8-year-old mare took the first place finish in the Performance 3’6″ Working Handy Hunter, also snatching the second and fourth place ribbon over fences. Alfano and Rosie were awarded with the reserve championship, and Alfano admitted her excitement towards having one of her top mounts back in the ring and doing so well.

Shane George’s Timber Ridge secured the Conformation Hunter Championship with a slew of blue ribbons. Alfano piloted the bay gelding over the handy course to take the first place prize, as well as earning three more blue ribbons over fences and the first place in the under saddle.

Maggie May, owned by Billie Steffee, has continued to steal the show with each passing week. Last week she nabbed the First Year Green Working Hunter Reserve Championship with two thirds and the first place ribbon over fences, as well as the first place in the under saddle.

Based out of Buffalo, NY, SBS Farms’ Susie Schoellkopf and Jennifer Alfano run one of the foremost show hunter training operations in the country, and travel nationwide to compete in the nation’s most prestigious horse shows. SBS Farms, Inc. continues the proud tradition of the Saddle and Bridle Club as one of the top show stables in the northeast. Schoellkopf is also the Executive Director of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, which houses both The Buffalo Equestrian Center as well as SBS Farms. Built in 1922, the 160-stall facility is a historical landmark, with its unique English Tudor and gothic style architecture. For more information on SBS Farms and the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center, please visit www.thebtrc.org.

Media Contact: Kendall Bierer
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
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