The HorseSouth info hotblog

Event Program Announced for USET Foundation Fundraiser

2009-11-02T07:07:00.001-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lauren Fisher for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Fisher of Phelps Media Group, Inc. International at (561) 753-3389 or at pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com

WEB SITE: Phelps Media Group, Inc. International Press Releases are available at http://www.phelpsmediagroup.com

Photo Credit: Lynn Palm and Rugged Painted Lark will be performing their Bridleless Musical Exhibition at the USET Foundation Holiday Gala Fundraiser in December.
Photo courtesy of Lynn Palm. Photograph may be used only in relation to this PMG press release.

Event Program Announced for USET Foundation Fundraiser

Wellington, FL – October 28, 2009 – The program for the USET Foundation Holiday Gala Fundraiser is shaping up to be big as many of the country’s top riders have now signed on to participate. A pioneer among women in the equine industry, Lynn Palm Pittion-Rossillon, has announced that she will perform her famous Bridleless Musical Exhibition during the weekend’s events. German vaulter Kai Vorberg has also been added to the list of participants and will perform an exciting vaulting demonstration. SUCCEED® and Wellington Classic Dressage will be hosting the Holiday Gala Fundraiser on December 11 & 12, 2009, to benefit the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation. The venue for the fundraiser will be the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL.

AQHA champion and trainer Lynn Palm has built an immensely successful career with a wide spectrum of abilities and experiences. While perhaps best known for her work with the two-time Superhorse champion, Rugged Lark, Lynn has created a legacy of training and showing an unmatchable cadre of outstanding performance horses. Breaking the mold of the age-old adage, “those who can’t do, teach” Lynn Palm is an all-around western and English horsewoman and a legend in her own time.

Palm has an outstanding list of achievements to her name, the most notable of which include: 34 Reserve and World Championships; Four Superhorse Championships; AQHA Female Equestrian of the Year; over 50 special bridleless exhibitions with the legendary Rugged Lark at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, National Horse Show, The Washington International Horse Show and the International World Cup; 2003 Equine Affaire Exceptional Equestrian Educator Award Winner; 2006 AQHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year; and Named 2000 AQHA Female Equestrian of the Year by the Women’s Sports Foundation.

Palm and Rugged Painted Lark, by the world-famous Rugged Lark, have been chosen to perform their Bridleless Musical Exhibition at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games on October 2-9, 2010 in Lexington, KY, and will be previewing that performance at the USET Foundation Holiday Gala Fundraiser. Within a 12-minute performance, Palm includes elements of dressage, reining and jumping to showcase the beauty, amazing athleticism and outstanding ability of this young horse.

“We do one song in the western saddle with reining and dressage movements, then
switch to the hunt seat saddle and do dressage and jumping movements without the bridle,” she explained. “It is very unique and we are very proud to showcase the unique abilities of western, dressage, and jumping as well as demonstrate dressage principles that apply to all disciplines. Most of all we are very proud to show a happy horse while performing!”

“I am proud to be a part of a very special event to support our finest horse and rider teams in their gold medal quest at the World Equestrian Games,” Palm added.

Along with her unique performance, Palm will also be donating an autographed 2007 Breyerfest Celebration Horse Limited Edition Rugged Painted Lark model to the auction.

The two newest additions to the Holiday Gala roster are Kai Vorberg and Templeton Thompson. Vorberg is a German vaulter who also has many great accomplishments to his name. Vorberg is a two-time World Champion (2004 and 2006), two-time European Champion (2005 and 2007), seven-time German champion (2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009), four-time Vice Champion, Vice World Champion in 2008, has a total of 11 medals at World and European championships, and has led the world rankings for three years. Singer/songwriter Templeton Thompson is one of Nashville's most sought-after session vocalists and she has performed on stage for audiences across the US, in Europe and in Japan. Her love for horses along with her passion for music has made Templeton a favorite at major horse expos as well as National and International horse events. Templeton will be performing songs from her “Girls & Horses” CD as well as her new and soon to be released “Life on Planet Cowgirl” CD.

Other events on the fundraiser program include: Pony Club Mounted Games featuring Gina Miles, Cathy Wieschhoff, Hawley Bennett, Karen O’Connor and Jeanne Lambrecht and more; a Dressage Pas de Deux featuring Monty Roberts (the man who listens to horses) and Courtney King Dye (2008 Dressage Olympian); a Freestyle Dressage to Music presentation by Pierre St. Jacques riding Lucky Tiger; a showcase of reining and Join-up from the saddle featuring Monty Roberts; dressage Commentary by Rolex World Cup Dressage winner and 2008 Olympian Steffen Peters, featuring demonstration riders Kim Gentry and Stephan Kiesewetter, a Showjumping Pas de Deux featuring Kate Levy and 2008 Olympian Samantha St. Jacques; a book signing by renowned bestselling suspense author Tami Hoag; a Small World Showcase featuring miniature horses and Shetland ponies; “Finding the Courage Within" presented by Jeanne Lambrecht; a Grand Finale featuring four-in-hand champion Chester Weber, driving the surprise celebrity equestrian Santa into the arena. Who could Santa be?

Along with the exciting equestrian performances, the Holiday Gala will feature a catered VIP dinner and bar along with a fundraising auction featuring many one-of-a-kind high dollar items. Monty Roberts will be the guest auctioneer. The Jim Brandon Equestrian Center will also host a special shopping village, which will be perfect for last minute holiday shopping.

Tickets for the USET Holiday Gala Fundraiser are on sale now. Ticket pricing will be $30 for preferred seating (per night) and $175 for VIP seating per night (if VIP seating is purchased for both nights the price will be $275 for the ticket). There will be no discount for purchasing preferred seating for two nights.

For further information on the fundraiser or if you are interested in being a vendor at this event, please visit the fundraiser website www.succeedevent.com for details. To purchase tickets, please see the ticket page on the event website or contact 561-227-1525 or email tickets@wellingtonclassicdressage.com. Inquiries to this email address should include "USET Fundraiser" in the subject line. Please note that participants and events are subject to change.

SUCCEED®, is a daily nutrient program that supports total equine digestive health for optimal appearance, temperament and performance. Thousands of horse owners and trainers feed their horses SUCCEED®, every day, including top equestrians in nearly every breed and every performance discipline. SUCCEED®, is the official digestive conditioning product of USEF, USEA and USDF. For more information, call 330-562-0888 or visit www.succeed-equine.com. Freedom Health, the manufacturers of SUCCEED®, are dedicated to finding, perfecting and delivering superior, innovative products that address real and significant health-related issues for animals and the people who care for them.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

For more information on Wellington Classic Dressage, please visit www.wellingtonclassicdressage.com.

under-sharing

2009-10-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so it HAS totally been forever since I shared my thoughts with the viewing public.
It's not as if I haven't had any. I am not sure what has kept me silent. It's really not like me.
Since I last posted personally a lot has happened!
I attended my high school reunion -
I rode my horse again after a two year "I'm skeert" phase -
I FINALLY got a new sofa! Actually I got TWO new sofas (isn't that lucky!)
I've been to TN, KY Florida and Illinois -
My kids have out grown nearly all their clothes again -
I've made some huge personal changes so that I can have more peace of mind and inner bliss.

This is very big stuff! Oh, and just tonight ... I registered to run / walk in my first 5K ever!

I've tried for years to hide under the delusion that I didn't like to run. Truth is I just suck at it. I am short and in school everyone just blurred past me. I don't like to do things I suck at, especially public things!
It wasn't that I was completely nonathletic. I rode horses, I was a gymnast, I rode my 10 speed everywhere and I can roller skate backwards!
But to be real here - I'm a brat. Seriously ... I'm the kid that quit playing Monopoly when I wasn't winning. Apparently, I have control issues. Running, I never worked at hard enough to be any good at it.
My Uncle Don is a runner! I tried to run with him a time or two, like for lessons. I think I thought it'd rub off on me. I was waiting for an instant transition in which my lungs wouldn't feel as if they'd descended into the pits of hell. Never happened and I just got out run by a dude that was more than twice my age. My uncle is now in his 70's, he's still in awesome shape. I think he walks more than he runs. My guess is, he can still kick my ass running any day of the week and all day on Sunday!
So I've had this secret desire to be a runner. I was perfectly willing to take it to my grave, honest! I'm sure I am at least 45 lbs over weight and walking around on battered knees and I am slightly asthmatic ... seems like I may have missed my peak time to excel at this activity. I have, however, paid my $20 for a 5K that is in exactly 2 weeks.
I am not sure whether to thank profusely or drop kick my good friend Jeanne for encouraging this bizarre behavior. I'll let you know around noon on Nov. 14th. Interestingly, this date is my childhood best friend's (also named Jeanne)birthday. This friend is an EMT, I don't think this is a coincidence. I need one Jeanne to encourage and inspire me and the other to administer CPR. It's all good!
I have two friends from high school that have recently completed half marathons. Megan and Rhonda are my heroes - my secret desire to run was first fueled by their facebook posts about their training runs and then of course their triumph over 13.1 miles! I will think of them as I waddle through this first 5K. I may curse them too, but I will not mean it, scouts honor! They are completely awesome!
I have some level of embarrassment in getting to this 5K. Because of my battered knees (insert gymnastics here) I have to go get uber good running shoes that correct my "over pronation" (check me out with my cool running terms!)this just means that I literally "run funny". So in order to have my gait evaluated I get to go to the running store, you know where the elite marathon types hang out. Those that have read my past columns know that I am a positive person. So, I will not crinkle my determination by worrying about the looks I might get in this mecca for runners. I am sure that pudgy women go there everyday embarking upon their own realization of secret dreams of athleticism.
I am listening to my cowgirl sister Templeton's song "I can do this" for more inspiration because it's late and Inspiration Jeanne has gone to bed. Paramedic Jeanne is likely awake, but I feel sure she'd discourage me from probable cardiac infractions.
Seriously, its not the 5K ... it's a run/walk and I walk 4 to 5 miles pretty often. A 5K is only 3.1 miles. I can't run it yet. But I will - that realization is somewhat scary.
Inspiration Jeanne says that if you are uncomfortable then you are growing, unless of course you have a sunburn or a hemorrhoid or something, then it just is what it is. I wont be uncomfortable walking this first 5K, but I will be uncomfortable because I won't be running. I am learning thou, a little at time that I don't have to and I can't control everything. I can't get in good enough shape to run a 5K in two weeks. I could wait, I bet that's what you are thinking. I could train and then do one in the spring. I could ... but I wouldn't.
I just need to go be uncomfortable. So I will ... remember, I paid my $20 already and Kent (my hubby) won't let me back out. That's a good thing.
So, wish me luck folks. I'm gonna get up stupid early in two weeks, drive 50 miles and likely be really cold. I'll walk 5 kilometers but most importantly, I am going to let go of my need to control everything in my life. Oh, don't get too excited ... I'll still need to control most everything else. But this I can do.
AND party bonus ... I get a t-shirt!

hunt down your bliss and nail it to the wall,
Tess

Exclusive Couture ‘Derby Hats’ to be Offered in One-of-a-Kind Online Charity Auction Benefiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Facility

2009-10-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cynthia Grisolia, Old Friends

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cagrisolia@yahoo.com, or Maggie Mae Designs® (508-430-1626), info@maggiemae.com

Note: additional images available

Exclusive Couture ‘Derby Hats’ to be Offered in One-of-a-Kind Online Charity Auction Benefiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Facility

GEORGETOWN, KY—OCTOBER 22, 2009—Custom Millinery Maggie Mae Designs® has joined forces with Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Central Kentucky, to create an unparalleled online shopping experience: “Hats Off to Horses: The Road to the Derby.”

On November 1, 2009 Old Friends will auction the first of six elegant Kentucky Derby Hats handcrafted by acclaimed milliner Sally Faith Steinmann of the Massachusetts-based Maggie Mae Designs®. Each of the six Steinmann pieces will be inspired by one of the 70 retired racehorses pensioned at Old Friends’s Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, KY.

“Hats off to Horses: The Road to the Derby” will offer a new, one-of-a-kind millinery creation for bid each month, with all of the high-fashion action leading up to the most exciting two minutes in sports.

The first day of bidding on the “Black Tie Affair” will be November 1, 2009 and the auction will be available for 10 days only. Interested bidders can view the hat and learn more about Steinmann by visiting www.maggiemaedesigns.com and following the auction link.

Ms Steinmann is donating each of the hats, and 100 percent of the online proceeds will go to Old Friends, the 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization (recently featured in the Aug. 24th edition of the New York Times) founded by former Boston Globe film critic Michael Blowen.

Steinmann has been making hats for Derby and many other racing events since 1998. Her designs were seen in the winner’s circle in 2008 when Big Brown captured the Run for the Roses. Her life-long love affair with horses has inspired her to create this matchless collection of Derby Hats to benefit Old Friends.

“Making hats is a passion,” said Steinmann, “but the horses are too, and with this project they are intertwined for me.

I have been wanting to do an exclusive fundraiser with just one equine-welfare organization for a long time,” adds Steinmann. “I had been corresponding with Alex Brown, who runs ‘ABR’ a horseracing website, and he suggested Old Friends–he couldn't possibly have known that they were my dream choice,” she laughs. “I was thrilled that Michael Blowen was excited about the idea, too.”

“It’s an honor to be working with Sally on this project,” said Blowen, who launched the facility in 2003. “Her work is exceptionally beautiful, and the hats will be fitting tributes to the great athletes we have retired here. We are so grateful for her generosity.”

The first hat on the block will celebrate Old Friends retiree Black Tie Affair. The now 23-year-old stallion won the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 1991 and subsequently the Eclipse Award for “Horse of the Year”. His earnings on the racetrack exceed $3 million.

For this superlative athlete Steinmann has crafted an extraordinary chapeau. A foundation of luscious silver dupioni silk and silver silk organza has been layered with waves of pale silk organza brims.

The hat is, naturally, highlighted by…a black tie. Created in bold silk, the bowtie trim is adorned with red roses that recall the horse’s stable colors and a swirling black-dot veil that “reminds us of the lovely dapple gray coat he had during his of racing days,” said Steinmann.

The chic finish: a single red rose curl on the backside. “This final touch,” adds Steinmann, “makes the hat a stunning statement from every angle.”

Similar designs by Steinmann have sold for $700-900.

One doesn’t have to be a racing fan to know that wearing a sensational hat to the Kentucky Derby is a long-standing tradition. From the owners, trainers, and Hollywood celebrities sitting on Churchill Downs’s famed Millionaire Row, to the madcap toppers seen in the infield, the “Derby Hat” parade is as fundamental as the post parade on the First Saturday in May.

Even if you’re not Derby-bound, the Black Tie Affair hat would make an elegant addition to any formal ensemble.

“I’m so excited about Hats Off to Horses”, said Steinmann. “I can't think of a better way to celebrate the Derby and raise money for Old Friends all at the same time!”

To bid on November 1st go to the Old Friends website at www.oldfriendsequine.org and click on the appropriate link. Each new hat will be made available on the first day of the month through April 2010.

For additional information contact Cynthia Grisolia at cagrisolia@yahoo.com or Maggie Mae Designs® at info@maggiemae.com.

For more information about Old Friends see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org or call (502) 863-1775.

Maggie Mae Designs® Custom Millinery offers magnificent hats for all occasions – from glamorous racing events such as the Kentucky Derby and the Royal Ascot to stunning and unique bridal wear and handsome cocktail fashions. Every hat is carefully handcrafted by milliner Sally Faith Steinmann from her home base in South Harwich, MA. Salons of her fashions can been seen on her website at www.maggiemaedesigns.com

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that is home to over 70 retired racehorses. It’s Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. For more information on tours, reservations at the Old Friends B&B, or to make a donation, contact the farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

ADEQUAN JOINS FORCES WITH THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION AS THE “OFFICIAL JOINT THERAPY SPONSOR”

2009-10-21T15:30:00.001-07:00

ADEQUAN JOINS FORCES WITH THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION

AS THE “OFFICIAL JOINT THERAPY SPONSOR”

The Arabian Horse Association announced that one of the nation’s leaders in the fight against degenerative joint disease in horses, the veterinarian-trusted name of Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is now a corporate sponsor and the “Official Joint Therapy Sponsor of AHA.”

Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of the flagship equine health product, Adequan®, will be represented at national shows and at the AHA convention in Reno in November during the general session. “Adequan is certainly an excellent fit for AHA,” said Cory H. Soltau, DVM. “Adequan has a long and safe track record for strong efficacy in the treatment of equine joints.”

Lance Walters, AHA president said, “We’re proud to have this new partnership with Luitpold Pharmaceuticals. The Adequan brand has a tremendously positive reputation – a terrific match for our 100-year-old breed association. From distance and racing to reining and the show ring, Arabian horse owners have long understood the usefulness of this fine product. We welcome Luitpold to the AHA family.”

Allyn Mann, Senior Manager of the Animal Health Division at Luitpold, said, “We continue to share the vision of Arabian Horse Association to promote excellence in their breed and the welfare of the horses. With Adequan® i.m., the only FDA-approved disease modifying joint disease treatment, Arabian horse owners can help keep their horses performing at the top of their game,” Mann continued. “We appreciate that AHA members have shown confidence in our brand, our product and our results. They know from experience that we understand the needs of performance horses and that we support the devoted equestrians and horses throughout the industry.”

Due to the rigors of competition, many performance horses suffer from joint disease. Adequan® is designed to help treat the underlying cause of the problem and break the cycle of damage, while reducing pain and inflammation.

To learn more about the causes, effects and treatments for equine degenerative joint disease, Adequan® offers a free educational CD or on-line video. To request this free educational video, call 1-800-974-9247, or visit www.adequan.com.

###

There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular polysulfated glycosaminoglycan or PSGAG in horses. Studies have not been conducted to establish safety in breeding horses. Go to www.adequan.com or call 800-974-9247 for full prescribing information. Adequan® i.m. is a registered trademark of Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

AHA is a major equine association serving 37,000 members across North America. It registers and maintains a database of more than one million Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses and administers approximately $3 million in annual prize money. AHA produces championship events, recognizes close to 600 Arabian horse shows and distance rides and provides activities and programs that promote breeding and ownership. For information about Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses, call 303-696-4500, e-mail info@ArabianHorses.org or visit ArabianHorses.org

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th

2009-10-21T15:29:00.001-07:00

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted
in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th

Orlando, FL (October 21, 2009) – Members of the American Shetland Pony Club, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Show Pony Registry (ASPC/AMHR/ASPR) will reap the rewards for a successful year and plan for 2010 at the small equine organization’s upcoming annual convention. Supporters of the versatile and popular small equine breeds will meet in Orlando, Florida, November 5-7.

The ASPC/AMHR/ASPR are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. “Despite a shaky economy, small equines have continued to grow in numbers throughout the country. Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show these remarkable breeds,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “Our annual convention helps us stay focused and continue to grow and promote the greatest little equines in America.”

Thanks to M & D Printing all convention attendee will be treated to a VIP evening at the Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre, home to Tap Dance Kidd (Dancer) a three-time Grand National Champion American Shetland Pony. In an effort to keep Shetlands and Miniatures in the spotlight, the ASPC/AMHR donated Dancer to Arabian Nights as the first-ever ambassador of the breed to appear at the popular attraction.

“Arabian Nights is also home to a black Shetland Pony that plays the role of ‘Little Black’ in the Black Stallion Literacy Program. Formerly named Brush Creek’s Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois,” Robb said, adding that in the last decade the Club and its members have taken a proactive role in keeping their small equines in the public eye.
The American Shetland Pony Club and the American Miniature Horse Registry recently held their national championship shows, with thousands of the finest Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses from around the country competing for top money and big prizes. During the annual convention, the club will recognize top breeders, competitors and national All Star and Hall of Fame winners.

Started in 1888, the American Shetland Pony Club is one of the oldest equine registries in the United States. Incorporated in 1972, the American Miniature Horse Registry was first the registry for Miniature Horses in the United States and continues to be one of the foremost organizations committed to the preservation and promotion of these small equines. For more information on the annual convention, or small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

-30-

Top 10 things to remember about equine parasite resistance

2009-10-21T15:25:00.001-07:00

Top 10 things to remember about equine parasite resistance

By Hoyt Cheramie, DVM, MS, manager, Merial Veterinary Services
Dr. Cheramie's picture is available for download

Parasite control is an important part of every equine health care program. Today, it’s no longer enough just to know what worms are bugging your horse. Now, you need to understand the basics of parasite resistance to ensure your program is effective.

If you already have enough to keep track of, don’t worry — veterinarians are your ally in keeping all the information straight. They also will help with developing and monitoring your parasite control program to ensure effectiveness and to keep resistance at bay.

When considering your parasite control program, there are 10 key things to keep in mind:

1. Resistance is a real threat. With no new parasite control products on the horizon, it’s important to start protecting our ability to control parasites by keeping current products effective.
2. Know the product class. Nearly all equine parasite control products belong to one of three different classes: benzimidazoles, macrocyclic lactones and pyrantel pamoates.
3. Use what works. It’s important to know what class you’re using because many experts believe macrocyclic lactones is the only class of medications that is capable of controlling key parasites in adult horses.1,2 For example, ivermectin, one of the two main active ingredients in ZIMECTERIN® Gold (ivermectin/praziquantel), is part of the macrocyclic lactones class.
4. Don’t rotate without reason. Many experts believe rotating through a series of different drugs will mask the effects of using products with resistance problems.3 In fact, information shows rotating through different parasite control products does not appear to slow the development of resistance.4
5. A few worms are OK. In the past, the goal of parasite control programs was to completely eliminate all parasites. However, today’s programs should be focused on reducing transmission of parasites, keeping worm burdens below harmful levels and treating clinically affected horses. Maintaining a population of parasites that can be killed by dewormers is an important factor in delaying the development of resistant parasites.2
6. Get the information. By performing a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), your veterinarian can help identify the key parasite threats on your premises, if the products you are using are working and what products should be included in your parasite control program.5
7. Know what’s on your farm. The species and amount of parasites attacking horses can vary by geographic area. For instance, tapeworms may be found more frequently in the upper Midwest or southeastern parts of the United States, rather than the West Coast.6
8. Get it done right. FECRTs can easily be misinterpreted if samples are collected, handled or analyzed improperly. Be sure these tests are properly conducted by veterinarians or by independent, reputable laboratories.
9. Treat the “problem” horses. It’s estimated that 20 percent to 30 percent of the horses on a farm put out about 80 percent of the parasite eggs, while other horses tend to shed fewer worm eggs whether treated or not.2 By focusing treatments on horses shedding most of the worm eggs, you can help maintain a population of susceptible parasites, reduce the risk of resistance and help keep horses healthy.2
10. Guarantee success. We are all concerned about keeping our horses healthy, and the best way to make certain your product works is to look for products with a 100 percent product satisfaction guarantee.

With several different kinds of parasites waiting to attack horses and confusion surrounding the resistance problems of some parasite control products, it is harder than ever to be sure all key parasite threats are controlled. Keep these 10 tips in mind and your veterinarian’s number handy, and you’ll be set for the new era of parasite control.

Dr. Cheramie specializes in equine surgery and performance horse medicine and has a special interest in colic and performance-limiting problems, including gastric ulceration and lameness. He holds a doctorate of veterinary medicine from Louisiana State University and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Warning: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. In horses, there have been rare reports of swelling and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue following administration of ZIMECTERIN Gold. These reactions have been transitory in nature. Do not use in other animal species as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result.

®ZIMECTERIN is a registered trademark of Merial Limited. ©2009 Merial Limited. Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. EQUIZIM934 (08/09).

For more information, contact:
Rachel Torbert
Bader Rutter
(402) 434-5307
rtorbert@bader-rutter.com

1Lyons ET, Tolliver SC, Ionita M, Collins SS. Evaluation of parasiticidal activity of fenbendazole, ivermectin, oxibendazle and pyrantel pamoate in horse foals with emphasis on ascarids (Parascaris equorum) in field studies on five farms in central Kentucky in 2007. Parasitol Res 2008;103:287-291.

2Kaplan RM. These ain’t your father’s parasites: An evidence-based medical approach to equine parasite control. The Practitioner October 2008.

3Kaplan RM, et al. Prevalence of anthelmintic resistance cyathostomes on horse farms. Parasitology Today 1999;15(4):156-159.

4Uhlinger CA, Kristula M. Effects of alteration of drug classes on the development of oxibendazole resistance in a herd of horses. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1992;201:51-55.

5Reinemeyer CR. Rational approaches to equine parasite control. In: Proceedings for the 2004 Equine Nutrition Conference for Feed Manufacturers. 2004:64-72.

6Reinemeyer C. Updates on the biology, diagnosis and control of cestodes in horses. Proc WAAVP 2003:16.

New Solution to Saddle Fit Challenges-

2009-09-30T07:38:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release-

For more information contact:

Saddlefit4Life®

http://www.saddlefit4life.com

ThinLine Inc

888-401-9101

www.thinlineinc.com

New Solution to Saddle Fit Challenges-

ThinLine and Saddlefit4Life® Introduce

New High-Tech Segue Saddle Pad

Durham, NC (September 30, 2009) - ThinLine Inc and Saddlefit4Life® have joined forces to create a new saddle pad designed to extend the fit of custom fitted saddles as horses mature and develop. The Segue saddle pad combines the revolutionary ThinLine technology and the latest in saddle fit innovations from Saddlefit4Life®. The Segue pad is designed as a solution for horses with recent muscle development that can affect the fit of the saddle and for riders looking for more impact absorption.

Researchers and designers at Saddlefit4Life® say, “We have looked around world to find a product like this. The Segue pad is truly second to none. It can help, in addition to proper saddle fit, to protect a horses back and rider’s spine from long term damage.”

Saddlefit4Life® and ThinLine designed this new pad to segue from either a not so recent saddle fit session or to protect a new horse until the saddle fitter can arrive. It is a temporary solution to offer immediate comfort for both horse and rider. The Segue pad is comprised of an Ultra ThinLine attached to a cotton half pad with pockets for placing inserts that are available in several sizes and thicknesses. Industry experts call this process ‘shimming’: creating a temporary fit until new saddles can be delivered or while horses are busy changing shape during training and growth.

The Segue offers an exclusive shimming system designed by Saddlefit4Life®. Special custom ThinLine shim thicknesses and sizing are available only with the Segue Saddlefit4Life® pad.

Saddlefit4Life® compares the benefits of ThinLine technology in the Segue pad to shoe inserts for marathon runners. Just as a thick layer of foam in his shoes would make a runner very unstable; thick layers of padding under a saddle make a rider unstable. For riders that are content with their current saddle but are intrigued by the possible benefits of the Segue saddle pad, the Segue pad is still useful. Jochen Schleese, a Certified Master Saddler for Saddlefit4Life® explains, “Without inserts this pad is thin enough to deliver shock absorbing benefits without altering perfect saddle fit.”

Elaine Lockhead, president of ThinLine, is thrilled with the new product saying, “The Segue saddle pad alone can offer horse and rider additional comfort and protection of their backs. The new shimming system has been specially designed to ensure that use of the Segue pad can only help the horse and never hurt him.”

The Segue pad is available now from Saddlefit4Life® representatives in North America, Europe and Australia as well as online at www.ThinLine.com and in many tack stores nationwide. For more information about the Segue pad, visit www.ThinLine.com.

Michelle Callahan and “Stylish” Win Year’s Supply of Vetrolin® Grooming Products From Farnam at American Shetland Pony Congress

2009-08-20T06:32:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release –

For more information contact the:

American Shetland Pony Club

American Miniature Horse Registry

Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing

561-753-4608

minipony@earthlink.net

Zona Schneider, Director of Operations

309-263-4044

zona@shetlandminiature.com

Michelle Callahan and “Stylish” Win Year’s Supply of
Vetrolin® Grooming Products
From Farnam at American Shetland Pony Congress

Cloverdale, Ind. (August 20, 2009) – Michelle Callahan and her Shetland Pony SMHC’s Freedom Stylish One, also known as “Stylish,” proved they had plenty of style at the 121st American Shetland Pony Congress Show when Stylish won the Vetrolin Grooming Award, sponsored by Farnam. Winning the title of “Best Groomed” pony at the show, earned Stylish and Callahan a year’s supply of Vetrolin® Grooming Products provided by Farnam.

“I am so excited that I won this wonderful award, especially since the judges voted on it,” Callahan said. “My boyfriend is always making fun of me because I take forever bathing Stylish and I am so tedious when getting the horses ready for their classes. But this time my hard work paid off!”

Callahan, who lives in Warrenton, Missouri, purchased Stylish at the beginning of July from Denise Johnson. Although she only had a short time to prepare Stylish for the show, she said bathing and clipping are always part of her regime. “I can’t wait to try all of the Vetrolin® products. I do go through a lot of shampoo and conditioner in order to give a ‘good’ bath,” Callahan said. “I am really pleased to see the diversified ingredients in the products. I also have a dog with a skin condition and the Vetrolin® products work on dogs, so that is wonderful.”

The Vetrolin® brand offers a comprehensive line of grooming products from cleaning and conditioning to soothing and invigorating; Vetrolin® products perform to the highest standard – serious grooming for serious competitors™. Vetrolin® products are renowned for the essential oils and invigorating aroma that sets them apart from the competition. The ten products in the Vetrolin® line provide a one-stop place to satisfy all your grooming needs and includes bath, body wash, conditioner, detangler, shine, green spot out, liniment and liniment gel products plus the newest additions to the Vetrolin® line White ‘N Brite™ Shampoo and White ‘N Brite™ Body Wash.

In addition to winning the “Best Groomed” award at Congress, Stylish proved he was more than just a pretty face by spending plenty of time in the winner’s circle. The stunning Shetland earned a first in Classic Model Gelding, a first in Classic Gelding 2 Years Old Over and was Classic Gelding Junior Champion. His flashy coat also earned him first in the Classic Gelding Multi-Color class and Reserve Grand Champion in the Classic Gelding Grand Champion Over class.

“The American Shetland Pony Club is really pleased that Farnam, the makers of Vetrolin® products, support our small equines and we are very grateful that they sponsored the Vetrolin Grooming Award,” said Johnny Robb, director of marketing for the American Shetland Pony Club and American Miniature Horse Registry (ASPC/AMHR). “Michelle was thrilled that her pony won the Vetrolin award and is sure to become a lifelong Vetrolin fan now. All of our American Shetland Pony Club members take pride in how they care for their ponies, which was obvious by all the gleaming coats at Congress.”

The 121st Shetland Pony Congress Show, held at the Crossroads Arena in Cloverdale, Indiana, was the largest in five years with over 500 ponies from all across the country competing for National Championship titles in classes such as driving, halter, jumping, youth and costume classes.

For more information regarding Vetrolin® products, visit www.farnamhorse.com. For more information on the Shetland Pony Congress, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.

Equine Rescue Team, Alpharetta GA - from Ed Gadrix

2009-08-19T17:47:00.001-07:00

I have had discussions with Lt. Bill Bourne of the City of Milton ( North Fulton, County, Georgia) Fire Department. That Fire Department has developed an equine rescue team that can work with saving horses in overturned trailers, caught in difficult circumstances, like swimming pools, and all kinds of problems.

They are the only fire department in the State of Georgia that has such a team. They serve more than the City of Milton, but they can't' serve the entire State. What they can do is share their recourses, training and equipment with others.

They are in need of a life sized horse mannequin to complete their training and to make it available for rent to other fire departments. http://www.rescuecritters.com/p18.html This mannequin is very expensive, like $10,000.00. They have raised some money, but need more. They have a fund-raiser at Jack Cashin's Chukkar Farm http://www.chukkarfarm.com/ this Sunday for the polo match there. Please go and pay the $20 which all goes to the fund raising effort , as Jack, as usual, is generous in using his polo fields and games to do such great work. The fire department keeps all the proceeds; Thanks Jack

But I have a pretty good list myself and I know Sue Vetsch has a huge list. Please make a contribution to the Milton Fire Department. You can send it to the City of Milton, or if you send your check to me, I'll get it to them.

This is needed in our State as our precious horses need qualified rescue in times of distress.

Ed Gadrix

Horse Lover's Field Day - Gillsville, GA

2009-08-19T09:31:00.001-07:00

The third annual Horse Lovers Field Day will be held at Grove River Ranch in Gillsville on Saturday, August 29, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. This is a fund raising benefit for the Banks County 4H program, a fun event for the whole family: hay ride parking shuttles, educational speakers in air conditioned classrooms, equestrian demos in the shady indoor arena, vendors, food concessions, door prizes, and a raffle. See attached flyer for more details and schedule of events. The most efficient driving directions can be found on my web site. Admission is $5/person OR a whole vehicle full of people for only $10!

We have a few slots available for equine-related vendors and a couple more entries in the Obstacle Challenge. Please contact me if you would like additional information as soon as possible.

Hope you will make plans to join us!

CJ Farmer
http://GroveRiverRanch.com

Shelley Van den Neste Sizzles Again at Summer Sizzler 2 Dressage at Canterbury

2009-08-19T09:28:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release -

For more information contact:

Shelley Van den Neste

Sunrise Farms Sport Horses

1-435-655-5808
srfsporthorses@aol.com

Shelley Van den Neste Sizzles Again at Summer Sizzler 2 Dressage at Canterbury

Newberry, FL (August 19, 2009) - Shelley Van den Neste, of Sunrise Farms Sport Horses, didn’t let the Florida heat slow her down at the Summer Sizzler 2 Dressage at Canterbury show. Van den Neste sizzled in the ring, riding away with Championships, Reserves and High Scores at the show held at Newberry’s Canterbury Showgrounds.

"I am very happy about my horses and students. They all had pleasant attitudes at the show despite the heat and rainstorm on Saturday. The new fiber enhanced footing at Canterbury is resilient and well groomed and is the same footing that is at Sunrise Farms," Van den Neste said.

Van den Neste and Susquehanna, a 10-year-old Hanoverian mare owned by Jill Costello of Gainesville, Florida, earned the Second Level Championship title and the Reserve Champion title in Third Level. Susquehanna and Van den Neste had similar results at Canterbury’s Summer Sizzler 1 show, winning the High Point in Second Level. “Susquehanna is really coming along and I couldn’t be more pleased with her,” Van den Neste added.

Van den Neste also found herself in the winner’s circle with Latin Lover V, a seven-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Erol and Christine Pinto of Wellington, Florida. “It was his first show in the United States and he was Champion in Training Level and earned the High Point of the show with a 77.6%. It was a great debut,” Van den Neste said.

Midnight Oil, a Danish mare who has been in training with Van den Neste for only a month, made her show debut at the Intro Level, finishing the weekend with a high score of 74%. “She won all three Intro Classes with her owner, Adult Amateur rider Johnny Robb,” Van den Neste said. “It was a great experience for the mare and I look forward to seeing great things from her in the future.”

Van den Neste, who is sponsored by MDC Intelligent Stirrups®, believes a great deal of her show success stems from the cross training she does with the horses at her Sunrise Farms in Newberry. “I ride the horses in the dressage ring but I also take them out and jump and ride across the country. It does great things for their brains and fitness level,” Van den Neste said.

Van den Neste’s farm offers quality training services, specializes in clinics and offers rehab services for show horses that are having problems returning to the show ring. Van den Neste, a USDF Silver medalist and an L graduate, currently competes two horses at the FEI level. For more information on the farm, visit their website at www.srfsporthorses.com.

Bestselling Author Tami Hoag Donates Signed Novel to Helping Horses Help Kids Silent Auction

2009-08-19T09:27:00.001-07:00

Bestselling Author Tami Hoag Donates Signed Novel to Helping Horses Help Kids Silent Auction

Pataskala, OH (August 19, 2009) – New York Times bestselling author Tami Hoag, who is also an accomplished adult amateur dressage rider, makes her living writing thrilling and spine-tingling murder mysteries. Hoag will thrill those attending the Second Annual Helping Horses Help Kids benefit for PBJ Connections by donating a signed copy of one of her bestselling mysteries to the benefit’s silent auction.

Hoag has signed a copy of her novel Kill The Messenger, which will be auctioned off at The Helping Horses Help Kids benefit September 19. The benefit will take place at the adjoining properties of PBJDressage and the farm of Bill and Vanieta Decker in Pataskala, Ohio.

Hoag says it’s no mystery that PBJ Connections works hard to help children, and she was honored to be part of the auction. “PBJ Connections Inc., is a nonprofit organization offering equine-assisted learning and therapy for children and teens,” said Glenda Childress, Executive Director of PBJ Connections. “Our goal at the Helping Horses Help Kids benefit is to raise $20,000 that will be used to provide our services to area youth who could not otherwise afford them.”

Hoag is known for supporting worthy projects, and recently donated signed copies of her novels to the riders at the Intercollegiate Dressage Association National Championships in Findlay, Ohio. She also donated a signed novel to the student auction at the American Horse Publications annual meeting.

“PBJ Connections works hard to provide equine-assisted learning and therapy to area at-risk youth and their families,” Hoag said. “I admire the work that PBJ Connections does and am hoping that Helping Horses Help Kids is a huge success.”

Hoag is known around the world for her intense suspense novels and has 14 New York Times bestselling novels to her name including Alibi Man, Kill The Messenger, Lucky’s Lady, Dust To Dust and Ashes To Ashes to name a few. Hoag’s novels Dark Horse and Alibi Man combine her love of horses and writing and take place amidst the Wellington, Florida equestrian scene.

Fans everywhere are eager for dressage’s top mystery writer to deliver a new thriller and Hoag isn’t disappointing her fans – Deeper Than The Dead will be on bookshelves by the end of the year.

For more information about Tami Hoag, or to see a list of her novels, visit her website at www.tamihoag.com. For more information on the Second Annual Helping Horses Help Kids benefit, visit the PBJ Connections website at www.pbjconnections.org.

RTTH's Richard Winters lays his cards on the table!

2009-08-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

Returning Champion Richard Winters Aims to Defend Title at 2010 Road to the Horse

Like a classic showdown in an old western film, only time will tell which outstanding horseman will claim the Road to the Horse 2010 championship. With all three competitors strapping on their boots and stepping into the arena to give the event their best, returning competitor Richard Winters will defend his title against Craig Cameron and Ken McNabb.

Having already accomplished winning this spectacular colt-starting competition, Winters “aims high” with the promise to give it his best “shot”. Returning to the Road to the Horse arena on March 6-7, 2010 at Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, this California cowboy says he knows the road may be longer and more difficult than before.

“With the right circumstances any one of us could win. I have a one in three chance! I know that I’d sure like to win another one of those buckles. I won’t be competing for 2nd place! Let’s see what happens,” exclaims Winters.

Setting two precedents at Road to the Horse, Winters rode his colt in a halter during the obstacle course and freestyle portion of the competition where he also tracked a calf in the arena. Using the horse’s natural cow instinct along with his cow horse experience, he brought the audience to their feet in sheer amazement.

“Every time I step into a competition like this the dynamics change. The colts will be different, no doubt the colt that I choose will respond differently than my colt from last year. The judges evidently appreciated my particular style of horsemanship last year. I’ll try to approach my colt with the same philosophy and style in 2010 and see how it works out,” says Winters.

Wowing the judges with his patience and skill in 2009, Winters competed against John Lyons and Tommy Garland to win the championship on the 2006 AQHA bay colt, Plenty Brown Hancock of Bath Brothers Ranch in Laramie, Wyoming. Keeping cool and collected in front of a sold-out crowd of 6,000 people, Winters used his years of experience and California vaquero brand of horsemanship.

An already accomplished clinician and cow horse trainer, Winters says that he was privileged to have been able to participate in Road to the Horse 2009 and he is doubly honored to be invited back for the 2010 competition.

“Needless to say I was extremely pleased at being named champion of Road to the Horse 2009. However, I understand that title will not buy me anything in 2010. It’s a brand new set of colts with two new, very talented competitors. We’re all starting at the same spot. I’m going to do the best I can do and let the judges sort it all out,” says Winters

Road to the Horse

Road to the Horse is unlike any other event in the equine or entertainment industry. It is “the original colt starting challenge”. The two-day sold out event matches three of the country’s best horse trainers and clinicians of today against one another as they train unbroken colts to ride in just a few short hours in front of a packed live audience and television cameras. By combining education, edge-of-your-seat suspense, entertainment and the love of the horse, Road to the Horse has been responsible for solidifying the position of today’s horsemanship heroes and launching the careers of tomorrow’s hottest new stars. In the process, the event itself has become a catalyst for the advancement of natural horsemanship. Hosted by Rick Lamb, of RFD-TV’s The Horse Show with Rick Lamb, spectators are guaranteed not only to have a good time, but also to walk away with training knowledge that will improve their relationship with horses.

Road to the Horse is proud to partner with many outstanding companies across the equine industry including Western Horseman, Nutrena, Quarter Horse News, Gist Silversmiths, Horses Magazine, Martin Saddlery, John’s Ariat Country, Rockin’ J Horse Stalls, Horsecity.com, Hoofbeats Magazine, Horse South Magazine and Horsemen’s Roundup. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on the 2010 Road to the Horse visit www.roadtothehorse.com or call 325-736-5000.

ApHC to Host Second Annual Stallion Services Auction

2009-08-11T10:33:00.001-07:00

NEWS RELEASE

August 10, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Information:

Karisa Saywers, Public Relations Coordinator

Office: (208) 882-5578 ext. 273

Fax: (208) 882-8150

ApHC TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL STALLION SERVICES SILENT AUCTION

MOSCOW, Idaho—The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) is proud to once again host the Stallion Services Silent Auction in Fort Worth, Texas, in conjunction with the 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Show, Oct. 23-31.

The 2009 Stallion Services Silent Auction allows breeders to select a quality stallion and bid for their chance to win a breeding to their chosen stallion. The resulting foal from the breeding will be eligible for the 2013 World Show 2-year-old incentive classes with huge payouts.

Last year the Stallion Services Silent Auction earned more than $9,000, and the ApHC looks forward to continued success with this year’s event by offering more options. Breeders may submit their bid at the Stallion Services Silent Auction booth at the 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Show or online.

Bidding for the Stallion Service Auction begins Friday, Oct. 23, 2009, and ends at noon on Oct. 31, 2009. The auction will resume Nov. 1, 2009, and continue until Jan. 1, 2010, for any unsold services.

Owners who commit a breeding to the Stallion Services Silent Auction receive the following benefits:

· A certificate entitling stallion owners to select from the stallion’s offspring from the 2010 breeding season to nominate for the 2013 2-year-old incentive classes.

· Stallions will be marketed to loyal audience of mare owners interested in breeding at no-cost to the owner.

· Stallion and owner information will be featured on the auction web site with photographs, achievements, pedigree and additional promotional information, with the option of a direct link to the owner’s web site.

ApHC-registered stallions must hold a National or World Champion Title or sire thereof, or the ApHC-approved outcross stallion must have a comparable championship or sire thereof.

For more information regarding the Stallion Services Silent Auction, please visit www.appaloosa.com and click the “World Show” icon, then click “Stallion Service Auction.”

The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) was established in 1938 with a mission of preserving, promoting and enhancing the Appaloosa breed. The ApHC has since registered more than 670,000 Appaloosas, which are known for their distinctive color, intelligence and even temperament. True to their reputation as an extremely versatile breed, Appaloosas can be found in nearly every discipline including racing, endurance riding and serving as reliable family horses. The international breed registry is headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, the heart of the Palouse region—the Appaloosa breed’s namesake and point of origin.

###

Karisa Saywers

Public Relations & Trade Show Coordinator

Appaloosa Horse Club

208-882-5578 ext. 273

publicrelations@appaloosa.com

www.appaloosa.com

How to be a jockey workshop this weekend

2009-07-28T11:54:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Norwalk , OH

For images please contant Tess Vanattia at tess@horsesouth.com

First of it's kind, Jockey workshop to be held at Equicizer headquarters!

Former jockey and inventor of the horseback riding training tool the Equicizer, Frankie Lovato, Jr. along with his wife Sandy, will host a jockey interactive workshop August 1-3rd in Norwalk, Ohio .

"For many years throughout my career and because of the Equicizer, I have been approached by hundreds of kids from all over the world that would like to become jockeys but have no idea where to start. So for all these people that feel this need for speed, I have created this workshop and will produce a DVD to follow that will answer the very question of What It Takes To Be a Jockey!"

A tough question, Lovato is prepared to fully answer with the workshop scheduled this weekend.
"Besides my own experience of 25 years in this industry and more than 15,000 races ridden, we will have phone calls during the workshop with other champion jockeys such as Mike Smith (riding Mine that Bird this weekend in the West Virginia Derby) Aaron Gryder, Chantal Sutherland, Hall of fame and legendary jockeys Angel Cordero, Chris McCarron, Laffit Pincay and Pat Day. Then America's leading trainer Steve Asmussen (also saddling Rachel Alexandra this weekend) and trainer Mike Stidham all willing to offer their advice to the attending students, Lovato explains.

The workshop will be done completely with safe simulated training exercises aboard Equicizers. There will also be lectures covering many topics from A-Z, videos and other means to answer the looming question! What DOES it take, to be a jockey? There will be no real horses used for this workshop and Lovato is very confident that this will offer the best means possible to anyone who feels they would like to take a try at this mystical career. The workshop also will provide a scale version of a one mile racetrack with furlong markers for more simulated exercises with students. The Equicizers are saddled and ready to run to help would-be jockeys get a real, albeit safe feel for what it's like to ride a race horse at breakneck speeds.

The official theme song for this weekend s event is Templeton Thompson s A horse that can fly. Available to listen to here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L_oF5SjJjQ or visit Templeton s website at http://www.templetonthompson.com

“Information about getting into the racing industry is obscure at best, it s my sincere hope that these workshops, dvd s and downloads will help those interested in racing and all the positions available to have a better understanding of how to make their dreams come true,” Lovato said.

To learn more about Frankie Lovato, Jr. and Equicizer visit his website at http://www.equicizer.com or call 419-663-1472

AQHA Hall of Fame inductees

2009-07-22T16:55:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release:
AQHA ANNOUNCES 2010 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

America’s Horse, July 22, 2009 – Three individuals and three horses will be inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame during the 2010 American Quarter Horse Association Convention, March 5-8 in Kissimmee, Florida.

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame was established in 1975 to honor people and horses instrumental in the development of the breed and the American Quarter Horse Association. Induction into the Hall of Fame is one of the highest honors bestowed by AQHA.

Horses:
Poco Pine
Paul Curtner bought Poco Pine during the dispersal of Paul Waggoner’s 3D Stock Farm in 1954 when Curtner was searching for a filly by Poco Bueno and out of a Blackburn mare. Instead, Curtner’s wife encouraged him to buy Pretty Rosalie, a Pretty Boy mare with a long-haired colt, Poco Pine, at her side.

Poco Pine was named after Pine Johnson, Poco Bueno’s trainer, who had been enthusiastic about the colt when Curtner was not.

Training and age improved Poco Pine in Curtner’s eyes. He set a goal of winning 50 grand championships before he would retire Poco Pine from halter competition, and he thought he achieved that goal, though AQHA records only credit the horse with 46 grand championships and 7 reserve grand championships.

In addition to his 135 AQHA points in halter, Poco Pine earned 15 points in cutting and 2 in western pleasure. He was an AQHA open champion and earned his Superior in halter. He earned $776.11 in NCHA competition during the 1950s.

Poco Pine also proved to be a sire of show horses. His first foal crop included two AQHA Champions, Poco Chico and Poco Taos, as well as Poco Lottie, who earned 25 halter points, and Poco Annie, who earned 54 halter points.

His get earned $14,794 in NCHA competition and $3,428 at the AQHA World Championship Show. Of 464 offspring, 199 earned 10,949.5 points, with 41 becoming AQHA Champions. One of those foals, Great Pine, went on to be a major sire of reining horses as well as an AQHA Champion. Poco Pine’s son Poco Pecho sired Pecho Dexter, a Hall of Fame inductee.

Rocket Wrangler
Rocket Wrangler was foaled in 1968. In 1970, he hit the racetrack, winning seven of his 13 starts, including the Rainbow and All American futurities. He was the year’s high-money-earning horse and was named world champion 2-year-old colt.

After his 1970 win of the All American Futurity, at the time the richest horse race in the world, owner J.R. Adams of Guymon, Oklahoma, sold a half-interest in the horse to B.F. Phillips, who retired the horse to stud.

Rocket Wrangler spent two breeding seasons at Phillips Ranch, then Adams bought back his half-interest and returned the horse to the track. Rocket Wrangler at age 4 won the New Mexico State Fair Handicap over a field that included champion Mr Kid Charge. He was retired from racing permanently in February 1973 and was syndicated in 1980. He sired 1,629 foals, with 1,221 starters and 762 winners.

Rocket Wrangler is 30th on the list of all-time leading sires by earnings and eighth on the list of all-time leading sires by winners. He is 14th on the list of all-time leading broodmare sires by earnings and fifth on the list of all-time leading broodmare sires by winners. His offspring included Rocket’s Magic, Rambling Sallye, Quick Wrangler, War Star Wrangler and American Speed. His foals earned $9,407,809 on the track, with Dash For Cash accounting for $507,689 of that total.

He was euthanized November 28, 1992, after suffering from colic and was buried at Royal Vista Equine in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he was standing.

Zan Parr Bar
Zan Parr Bar was foaled April 30, 1974.

He was world champion halter stallion three times, the first horse to achieve that mark. In 1977, he was high-point halter stallion, standing grand at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. He earned 114 grand championships and 13 reserve championships.

In the meantime, he was also earning his way as a roping horse. He was the high-point steer roping horse in 1979, the same year he was world champion aged stallion. In 1980, he placed third at the AQHA World Championship Show in senior heeling, the same show at which he defended his world championship in aged stallions. He also placed in the top 10 at the World Show in heading and heeling. Zan Parr Bar also earned points in reining and western pleasure. In his lifetime, he acquired 602 points.

He retired from the show ring after the 1980 World Show. He continued to be ridden on the ranch while being used as a breeding stallion. His foals earned 44 world championships and 33 reserve world championships. His foals had 43 year-end high-point wins, five year-end all-around high-point wins and three reserve year-end all-around wins. In all divisions combined, his foals have earned 25,593.5 points. Of 653 foals, 236 have been point-earners.

Some of Zan Parr Bar’s better-known offspring are: Reprise Bar, the 1984 Superhorse; Sparkles Suzana; Zan Parr Snip; Sparkles Rosezana; Zans Diamond Sun; Zan Parr Jack; and Parr Skip Bar.

Zan Parr Bar died November 27, 1987, of colitis X. At that time, he was AQHA’s leading sire of performance horses.

Zan Parr Bar is currently sixth on the list of sires of all-time leading point earners and 17th on the list of sires of AQHA Champions.

Individuals:
Bailey “Stretch” Bradley
In the 1940s, Bailey “Stretch” Bradley started showing in reining, pleasure and cutting. In 1944, he bought his first American Quarter Horse, introducing the breed to the state of Ohio. He then began training and showing on a part-time basis.

In 1967, he was among the small group founding the All American Quarter Horse Congress. Through the years, he helped refine the show into the event it is today, taking on the ground work as his responsibility, a task he continued for 20 years.

He was the second president of the Ohio Cutting Horse Association and executive vice president of the NRHA. He was a director for OQHA and served on many committees. He was named an honorary director in 1986. He was a founder of the first 4-H horse and pony club in Ohio, the Triple T 4-H Club, and was a director of the Midwestern Horse Show and Rodeo.

In 1970, at age 48, Stretch became a full-time professional trainer, hauling Hall of Famer Miss Jim 45 in a 1970 show campaign that ended with 134 wins, 118 grand champion awards and 436 AQHA points for an honor roll title. In 1971, Stretch led Gold Margarita to the open year-end high-point title. In 1975, he did the same for Vallerina Miss, adding a world championship in aged mares. At the time, he was considered one of the nation’s best halter trainers. He often hauled to horse shows with youth exhibitors, such as Cindy Johnson, who won four youth honor roll titles.

In 1988, Stretch was named to the NRHA Hall of Fame’s third induction class, just months after his death at age 66, based in part on his commitment to seeing horses had the best possible grounds at Ohio horse shows and reinings. That same year, he was inducted into the Congress Hall of Fame.

Carol Rose
Carol Rose began competing in 4-H horse shows at age 8 in California. In college, where she was earning a degree in animal science and ag business, she was the high-point individual judger at the 1962 National Western Stock Show in Denver. In the early 1960s, she focused on reined cow horse competition.

In 1969, Carol was the first woman to make it into the NCHA Futurity finals. She was the NCHA non-pro world champion in 1967-1969 and again in 1975.

She was the first woman to serve on the AQHA judges committee. She has served on the international committee and the long-range planning committee and is a member of Texas Quarter Horse Association.

In 1966, Carol moved to Texas and began breeding horses.

Horses Carol has bred have earned 25 world championships and 30 reserve world championships. She has bred 14 year-end high-point winners, three year-end all-around winners and two year-end reserve all-around winners.

Her stallions Shining Spark, Genuine Doc, Zans Diamond Sun and Zan Parr Bar have extensive records of their own. Her mare Diamonds Sparkle is in the Hall of Fame.

Frank “Scoop” Vessels III
An AQHA life member, Frank “Scoop” Vessels III served as AQHA president in 2004. Vessels has been around good horses all of his life, since his grandfather, Frank Vessels Sr., who was inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame in 1989, started both Los Alamitos Race Course and Vessels Stallion Farm.

A recipient of the 1999 AQHA Champion Breeder of the Year and the 2000 Gordon Crone Special Achievement Award, Vessels was first appointed to the AQHA Racing Committee in 1992. He was awarded the John W. Galbreath Award for Outstanding Entrepreneurship in the Equine Industry from the University of Louisville’s equine industry program in 2003.

These outstanding horses and individuals will join the other 215 human and equine members of the Hall of Fame who have left their mark on American Quarter Horse history.

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum opened in 1991, and following an extensive redesign, the 44,000-square-foot museum reopened to the public in June 2007. It now features state-of-the-art technology and exhibits. Hall of Fame members are featured in a timeline, which highlights their contributions to the breed.

For more information on any of the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame inductees, contact the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum at (806) 378-5029 or visit www.aqhhalloffame.com.

AQHA news and information is a service of AQHA publications. For more information on The American Quarter Horse Journal, The American Quarter Horse Racing Journal or America’s Horse, visit www.aqha.com/magazines.

Ulcer Education Greens Up

2009-07-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Natasha Joseph
Merial
(678) 638-3690
natasha.joseph@merial.com Jennifer Ryan
Bader Rutter & Assoc.
(262) 938-5524
jryan@bader-rutter.com

Ulcer Education Greens Up
Educational Resources for ULCERGARD® (omeprazole)
Use Recycled Materials

DULUTH, GA. — July 22, 2009 — The only FDA-approved product to help prevent stomach ulcers in horses — ULCERGARD® (omeprazole) — once again breaks ground. Educational materials for the brand will now be printed on environmentally responsible materials.

“We are committed to educating horse owners about stomach ulcers, but we’re also dedicated to providing that education in a responsible way,” says Amanda J. McAvoy, product manager, Equine Pharmaceuticals, Merial. “Environmentally friendly efforts are important to the veterinarians and horse owners who use our product every day. Now our customers can feel even better about their use of ULCERGARD.”

As new educational pieces are developed for ULCERGARD, they will be printed on paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wherever possible. FSC-certified papers are independently certified to help ensure the forests that they come from are managed responsibly.

Because of the prevalence of stomach ulcers in horses — 93 percent of racehorses1 and 63 percent of nonracing competitive horses2 — veterinarians and horse owners are continually interested in the most current research and medical information to help keep their horses healthy. Now this information is being delivered in a more environmentally friendly way.

Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately 5,400 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2008 sales were over $2.6 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture between Merck & Co., Inc. and sanofi-aventis. For more information, please see www.merial.com.

Egg membranes ... good for the joints??

2009-07-21T20:18:00.001-07:00

Julia Shuck

Public Relations Specialist

20 Research Park Drive

St. Charles, MO 63304 USA

888.906.6887

www.novusint.com

julia.shuck@novusint.com

For Immediate Release 07-20-2009

Ingredient that reduced human joint pain used in Arenus products

St. Louis, Missouri, July 20, 2009 – Natural eggshell membrane has been found to reduce joint pain and stiffness in patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee, according to the authors of the study published in Clinical Rheumatology (DOI: 10.1007/s10067-009-1173-4). This same ingredient is also available to horses and dogs through STEADFAST®, a product made by Arenus, a division of Novus Nutrition Brands, LLC (a Novus International company).

NEM® consists of eggshell membrane that was first used by ESM Technologies, a leading supplier in commercialized eggshell and eggshell membrane wellness ingredients. ESM Technologies owns the technology and recently released it to Arenus for exclusive use in animal products, making STEADFAST® the only horse and dog joint health supplement to contain NEM®.

NEM® 500 mg taken once daily significantly reduced both joint pain and stiffness (in humans) compared to placebo, both rapidly (10 days) and continuously (60 days) according to the study’s authors (Clinical Rheumatology DOI: 10.1007/s10067-009-1173-4). By the end of the trial, NEM® cut stiffness in half in approximately 32 percent of the patients remaining in the study.

Similar to humans, horse and dog joints, bones, tendons and ligaments can be damaged over time from athletic performance, environmental conditions and normal daily activity. NEM® is used as a unique, all natural joint support supplement that, similar to humans, provides relief from occasional discomfort related to normal daily activities and supports normal joint mobility.

“As an animal health and nutrition company that is dedicated to improving the health, performance and longevity of horse and pets, Arenus is excited to bring this technology used in humans to the animal health marketplace,” said Celeste Mohatt, Marketing Manager, Arenus. “Innovative solutions and research validated products create exceptional results.”

“What I found most remarkable about the study was the quickness in which people responded to the eggshell membrane preparation,” said Dr. Anne Winkler, a rheumatologist and one of the study’s authors. “Generally, we tell patients taking over-the-counter products that it may be two to three months before they notice any benefits. The fact that within a fairly short period of time (patients on NEM®) noticed a definite improvement in symptomology was impressive.”

Also noted in the study and important to both human and animal users, there were no serious adverse events reported during the human trial and the treatment was reported to be well-tolerated by study subjects.

A similar study showing that NEM® significantly reduces joint pain and increases range of motion in less than ten days was published in Clinical Interventions in Aging (May 2009).

For more information on NEM® in humans visit www.esm.com and www.arenus.com for NEM® in STEADFAST®.

Don't Miss the Mid-Atlantic Weekend of Pleasure Driving and ADS Annual Meeting

2009-07-21T08:50:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release
Date: July 20, 2009

Don't Miss the Mid-Atlantic Weekend of Pleasure Driving and ADS Annual Meeting

Morven Park, Leesburg VA
August 6-9, 2009

Registration Form (link fixed)
Updated Schedule (7/20/09)
Proxy Form

We have added some fun driving events, including a poker drive and a new event for the 2010 Rulebook, a Continuous Day of Driving. There will be a special Drive in Front of the Mansion for a memorable photo opp. We are offering the CAA Proficiency test and have added a prep course, taught by Andy Marcoux which is open to everyone. Mickie Bowen will do a clinic on “Driving Multiples”. In addition to the clinic, Mickie will be available for individual lessons with your experienced multiple or hers. To be scheduled and paid for at the event. Space is limited. Additionally, Dr. Richard Forfa will lead a seminar on how to condition your horse for driving.

Sprinkled among the horse activities are ADS committee meetings that are open to everyone. If you have an interest or an idea, this is the time to share it with the ADS Board. Right before the Virginia sized barbeque on Saturday, is the ADS Annual Members Meeting and Silent Auction. Well known artist Jean Clagett, and new Virginia resident has donated a special piece to the auction. Please bring your items to help support this event.

Cost is $80 for the weekend or $30 per day. Horse expenses are additional. Want to bring your horse and drive just for the day? There is a nominal $10 trailer in fee and the $30 day fee. See complete details on the registration form. Have questions, give the ADS office a call 608-237-7382 or e-mail us at info@americandrivingsociety.org

Are you unable to attend the meeting? Please send in your proxy vote form for the ADS Annual members meeting.

American Driving Society
1837 Ludden Dr, Ste 120, PO Box 278, Cross Plains, WI 53528
Office Hrs: Mon-Fri 9-4pm CST
Phone:608-237-7382 Fax: 608-237-6468 e-mail: info@americandrivingsociety.org

2009 PVDA Ride for Life and Dancing Horse Challenge

2009-07-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

2009 PVDA Ride for Life and Dancing Horse Challenge Brings In Record
Donations, Support

Belinda Nairn-Wertman and Jennifer Sirrine Named Challenge Winners

Upper Marlboro, MD--The Potomac Valley Dressage Association (PVDA)
announced that their sixth annual Ride for Life dressage show and Jill
Hassler-Scoop Memorial Dancing Horse Challenge charity performance
brought in record donations and attendance this past weekend, June
27-28, 2009. The benefit for the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast
Center, took place at the Prince George?s Equestrian Center in Upper
Marlboro, Maryland.

At the Challenge, international-level equestrians rode their horses to
music for a chance to win the Dover/Nutrena People?s Choice Award
(awarded to Jennifer Sirrine) and Rosenthal Land Rover $5,000 Trophy
(First Place and $3,000 were awarded to Belinda Nairn-Wertman by
Olympic judge, Linda Zang).

Also competing in the Challenge were: 2009 Olympian, Courtney
King-Dye; Felicitas von Neumann-Cosel; 2009 Brentina Cup rider, Lauren
Sprieser; and Jules Anderson. Barbara Strawson performed a tribute
ride accompanied by the Bowen McCauley Dancers, Hope Garden dance
studio and the music of Eva Cassidy. Unable to ride, but in attendance
was Betsy Steiner. Dr. Cesar Parra, Cathy Morelli and Michael
Barisone, were also unable to perform at the last minute.

?Saturday evening?s Dancing Horse Challenge filled brought
approximately 2,250 spectators into the Showplace Arena, almost
doubling last year?s attendance. This is a notably high turnout for a
dressage event of this kind. By Sunday morning, people on multiple
online forums were comparing the event to the World Cup,? says Chair
of Ticket Sales, Hilary Moore.

Donations are still being counted and the total raised is pending, but
the pre-event auctioning of a dressage clinic with Olympian Debbie
McDonald brought in $8,500, the Saturday evening silent auction raised
over $10,000, and one group of North Carolina riders raised more than
$20,200 in donations themselves.

The PVDA Ride for Life brought in over $161,000 in rider donations and
sponsor contributions before this year?s event and plans on holding
their seventh annual show on June 26-27, 2010.

Saturday evening?s Dancing Horse Challenge has become one of the
largest equestrian freestyle performances in the Mid-Atlantic Region
and is popular with both the sport horse and non-equestrian
communities in the area.

Dover Saddlery, DressageClinic.com, El Paso Corporation, Nutrena,
Patuxent Nursery and Rosenthal Land Rover were key sponsors of this
year?s event.

For more information about the PVDA Ride for Life, visit
www.pvdarideforlife.org or contact Hilary Moore at (703) 400-9108 or
marketing@pvdarideforlife.org or www.pvda.org to learn about the PVDA.

Keeley Gogul Named President of the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation

2009-07-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

KEELEY GOGUL NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN HUNTER-JUMPER FOUNDATION

Keeley Gogul recently took over the position of President of the American Hunter-Jumper Foundation. She fills the seat of trainer, rider and judge Geoff Teall, who has been president of the AHJF for the past three years. Past president Louise Serio will remain in the position of Vice President.

The 39-year-old Miami University (OH) Magna Cum Laude graduate is looking forward to the challenge and brings with her some excellent credentials. She graduated in 1992 with a degree in communications. She started her work career at Maypine Farm and it was there that she met her future husband Jeff, a hunter trainer.

From the horse world she decided to try her hand in the corporate world and spent four years first as a corporate Branch Manager for Enterprise Rent A Car then as an account executive for a video production company.

After experiencing life outside the horse world Keeley happily returned in September of 1998 to start Flagship, a nationally recognized "A" level hunter/jumper program operating out of the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club in Gates Mills, Ohio, with Jeff in September of 1998. They were married in 2001.

Her affiliation with the AHJF Advisory Board began in the fall of 2007 and by 2008 she was named as a member of the Board of Directors. Keeley is also a past member of the USEF Safety Committee and a current member of the USHJA Junior Hunter Task Force.

Geoff Teall, Wellington, FL, was among those who felt that Keeley was the perfect person to fill his shoes for an organization that he not only presided over but helped to create. His decision to step down from the presidency was one he made after careful consideration.

“It is with very mixed emotions that I give up the Presidency of the AHJF. It has been an honor to lead such a small organization that has had a large impact on our hunter industry, and the rest of the equestrian community,” explained Geoff.

“I feel that we have led the hunters back towards where they needed to go, and I am proud of myself, as well as of all the people involved with the AHJF that have made this possible. I am also very excited that we will now begin to introduce some new blood to our organization, and some new ideas and viewpoints. It is very important for all of us that we continue to stay fresh and current with what is happening out there. I am very excited to have Keeley take over the reins.”

For Keeley the honor of being named President of the AHJF is not only something she is looking forward to but a position she takes with pride and conviction.

"Following in Geoff's footsteps is both an honor and a huge responsibility. In creating the AHJF, Geoff and Louise have built an organization that is focused, functional and responsive to its members,” commented Keeley.

“The various programs that have emerged from the AHJF, such as the World Champion Hunter Rider program and the Emergency Relief Fund, are great contributions to our sport, and an example of what this dedicated organization is capable of creating. As we go forward over the course of the next several years, it is my vision to work closely with the Board of Directors to expand on these successful programs while continuing to build a strong membership base and developing other member-driven programs to support our industry."

Past President Louise Serio, Kennett Square, PA, the initial inspiration behind the creation of the AHJF, agreed with Geoff that Keeley is the right choice to continue their vision.

“Bringing new blood into the AHJF is the next faze for the organization. Geoff and I both thought of Keeley to succeed him. We are very proud of what we have accomplished and feel Keeley will keep it going with renewed strength and energy,” commented Louise.

The AHJF was formed in 1992 to further the development of the equestrian sport of show hunter rider and show jumping competition by providing a national office to organize, coordinate and support hunter rider and show jumping equestrian competition. Programs of the AHJF include the World Championship Hunter Rider Awards, the AHJF BSA Inc. 401k and Profit Sharing Plan and the AHJF Junior Hunter Challenge. While these programs are the nucleus of the organization, the continued support of its colleagues is critical to the AHJF. Over the past 16 years the AHJF Emergency Relief Fund (ERF) has supported nearly 50 people in times of need, distributing close to $450,000. The AHJF’s Emergency Relief Fund was established in 1995 to provide emergency financial support to individuals and families involved in the hunter and jumper sport. The monies come from the AHJF, private gifts and from other donations, which are tax deductible as charitable contributions.

For information about the Hunter Classic, the AHJF or its programs, contact the AHJF at PO Box 369, West Boylston, MA 01583-0369, call 508-835-8813, fax 508-835-6125, email ahjf@earthlink.net or visit their web site at www.ahjf.org.

Craig Cameron “Lays It On the Line” for Road to the Horse 2010

2009-07-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

Road to the Horse

For more info contact:
Road to the Horse
press@roadtothehorse.com
Ph: 325-736-5000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Craig Cameron “Lays It On the Line” for Road to the Horse 2010

“You lay yourself on the line through performance, but I've done that my whole life. You're out in the eye of the storm, but for me that's what Craig Cameron is all about. I'm determined to go to Road to the Horse and do a great job!” says Cameron.

Trainer and clinician Craig Cameron of Bluff Dale, Texas is not only known for his great horsemanship but also for his sensational personality. Displaying his skills and entertaining the audience at the 2010 Road to the Horse, Cameron will compete against Richard Winters and Ken McNabb on March 6-7, 2010 at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, TN.

“Craig is the chili in chili pepper. He electrifies the crowd with his personality and wit. Part of Road to the Horse is entertainment and Craig sure knows how to entertain a crowd. You never know what's going to come out of him, but it's always fun. We're really excited to have him back,” says Tootie Bland, Road to the Horse owner and producer.

Sharing his experiences and knowledge with others, Cameron uses his witty and entertaining personality to make horsemanship fun and easy to understand. His love for horses and people is evident not only in front of a crowd or camera, but also in his day-to-day life on the ranch.

A life-long rancher, rodeo cowboy and horse trainer, Cameron has developed his own unique style and method through years of hands-on experience and hard work. He says that experience is the key to horsemanship and will be a factor in Road to the Horse 2010.

“Experience is the one thing you can't buy and it's something that can't be given to you. The key is to take the fear out of the horse. Then they'll relax and work with you. Everyone's approach is different, but not necessarily better. You just have to present it to the horse in a way they understand and then give them time to understand it,” says Cameron.

When asked about his competitors, Cameron says he is looking forward to visiting with Winters and McNabb and that they are two horsemen that he highly respects. Competitively however, Cameron has his eye on the prize and is focused on performing to the best of his abilities.

“I found out a long time ago when I was in rodeo that you can't worry about your competition. You just do the best you can do, but you can't worry about your competitors,” says Cameron.

To buy your Road to the Horse 2010 tickets and see Craig Cameron in action, visit www.roadtothehorse.com or order by phone at 1-877-772-5425. To learn more about 2010 Road to the Horse competitor Craig Cameron, visit www.craigcameron.com.

Road to the Horse

Road to the Horse is unlike any other event in the equine or entertainment industry. It is “the original colt starting challenge”. The two-day sold out event matches three of the country's best horse trainers and clinicians of today against one another as they train unbroken colts to ride in just a few short hours in front of a packed live audience and television cameras. By combining education, edge-of-your-seat suspense, entertainment and the love of the horse, Road to the Horse has been responsible for solidifying the position of today’s horsemanship heroes and launching the careers of tomorrow’s hottest new stars. In the process, the event itself has become a catalyst for the advancement of natural horsemanship. Hosted by Rick Lamb, of RFD-TV’s The Horse Show with Rick Lamb, spectators are guaranteed not only to have a good time, but also to walk away with training knowledge that will improve their relationship with horses.

Road to the Horse is proud to partner with many outstanding companies across the equine industry. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on the 2010 Road to the Horse visit www.roadtothehorse.com or call 325-736-5000.

Pretty stinkin' excited about this

2009-06-29T11:06:00.001-07:00

The ICE Adventure

2009-06-22T21:21:00.001-07:00

You've read maybe, about McKeever's First Ride. If not, back up ...

We arrive at Chastain Horse Park at roughly 9 am with about 20 bags of ice packed in coolers. At 9 am, it's about 95 degrees.
Those of you that know me well are aware that while I am not overly large, I am not tee-niny either. Publishing a magazine is not a physical job and well, I'll just say it. I'm somewhat lazy.
So, at 9 am I am helping Dee, Miss Deenie and Karen carry stuff for the event. It's not far really. A couple hundred feet, maybe not that much. Back and forth up the sidewalk. Within 5 minutes I am sweating like an unrepentant sinner on judgment day.
It's all good thou. We are happy and life is good. We get the drinks sorted into tubs and we are going to add the ice and water about 45 minutes before our guests arrive.
I asked God for a breeze and he supplied one! All was well.
We iced down the water and sodas and it quickly became apparent that in what was then 103 degree heat, we didn't have enough ice.
Karen was taking photos and we came in her truck, so Dee handed me the keys to her Range Rover and off I went to get ice.
Now then, Chastain Park for those of you that don't know is pretty much in the "hoity-toity" section of Atlanta. I wen to Publix to get ice and when I parked Dee's Range Rover there were two other Range Rover's in the lot but one was grey and the other was white. Dee's is black.
Into Publix I went. I gathered a dozen bags of ice into the buggy. I paid for them. I had the most pleasant cashier. It was going splendidly!
I walked out into the stifling heat and immediately considered climbing into the buggy with the ice.
I look around for where I had parked the car and noticed that ... while I was in the store ... about six Range Rover's IDENTICAL to Dee's where parked all around. I couldn't tell which was hers!!
This was a funny joke!!
Here I am on a black asphalt parking lot in 103 degree heat with a buggy full of ICE!
No problem, I'll use the key thingy to beep Dee's horn right? NO! Apparently, even though Range Rover's are in vogue in Buckhead, the keys aren't fancy enough to make the horns beep.
My ice is melting ....
Now I am suspicious looking because I am running around the parking lot with a buggy full of ice peeping in the windows of all the black Range Rovers.
I get several strange looks.
I want you to know it was the "horse person" in Dee that saved me! Her's was the only Range Rover with a saddle in the back.
I loaded up my dozen bags of melting ice ... and tried to shove Dee's gorgeous saddle as far away from the ice as possible.
Can't have water spots on the leather!
I just knew that before I got back, Dee was going to have a swimming pool in the back of her car.
Fortunately, the ice stayed frozen and many hands helped me carry the bags to the coolers and we managed to serve ice cold beverages to some very hot people!
Thank goodness the joke was only on me!

Abundant Blessings and ice cold drinks!
Tess

Healing Horses ....

2009-06-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

What an awesome few days I've just experienced. I'll try to put it into words.

On Wednesday, Karen Jones (our new editor) packed an overnight bag and made our way west to Cartersville, GA. We pulled up at the gorgeous Serendipity Ranch owned by one of those "angel on earth" people Deenie McKeever.
Deenie is about the size of my 12 year old son. Just a tee-niny cowgirl. She ushered us into her home where we met Elliot, her handsome Golden Retriever. Her home over looks a giant treehouse nestled among the woods. From there you can see the mountains from which Karen and I drove from.
Along the wall that leads to the back of the house is a great collage of photos and newspaper articles, basically a visual walk thru this incredible woman's life.

Deenie's dad Dan McKeever was a pioneer in the world of prosthetics. From what I gather, Deenie got her sweet positive spirit from this man. Deenie tells us her world got turned upside down one morning while listening to Good Morning America. The guest was talking about Horses for Heroes, a program that pairs disabled veterans with horses for both physical and mental therapy.
A light bulb turned on and Deenie went to work. McKeever's First Ride was born! On Thursday June 18th, a bus load of folks in town for the The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) and the Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) conference came to Chastain Horse Park for this amazing event.
McKeever's first ride became a part of other clinics like First Swing (Tennis), First Swim etc. All of these programs are an effort to promote fitness among those with limb loss.
My dear friend Ed Dabney was on hand to show people and their families how to communicate with the horse, how they learn and how you ask for a response from them. (Which led me to think WOW, wouldn't it be great if everyone was introduced to horses this way!)
It was nothing short of pure magic to see these brave, wonderful souls interacting with the horses. As their minds engaged in learning about the horse and their hands glided down their powerful necks all thoughts of disability faded and the horses did what they do best ... captivate!
Those of us with horses know that in the still quiet of the morning, or in the dusk of a summer evening when you are greeted by the low soft nickers that horses can soak up your worry, your frustration and sometimes even your fear. For some of the attendees at McKeever's first ride ... a connection happened.
I know some of those people will seek out horses for not only physical therapy but for the pure joy and euphoric feelings they give.

Feeling Grateful,
Tess