Friday, January 28, 2022
Sunday, May 22, 2016
Monday, May 17, 2010
Out with my boots on ...
A little while ago my FB friend Sonya posted a photo of her worn, beloved Justin Lacers. I've worn out a pair or two myself. Along with the photo she shared how she'd lived her life in those boots and I was inspired to ask our readers to send in photos of their boots. I also asked readers to tell us how their riding boots empowered them.
Right now, I am waiting tables at a local restaurant a few shifts a week for spending money and mostly to get out of the house and away from this computer! It's a lot of fun. I love the people I work with and I love our guests that come in to eat. So today I worked the lunch shift. It wasn't very busy and I was home before 3 pm. It was gorgeous here today!
I walked right in the house and took off my work clothes, put on my riding pants, an old t-shirt and ... my boots.
My boots are Ariat pull-ons, they were Wade's before they were mine. When I bought them for him, I knew they'd be mine when he outgrew them. It didn't take him long. They are black, but are scuffed so that in places they look brown. The soles are thin, it hurts my feet to walk on the big crusher run gravel in our driveway. They aren't cute. They aren't stylish.
They are utilitarian.
When I pull them on, I am transformed.
I am more determined. I am focused. I am ... cowgirl!
Today I pulled them on, went right out and got my mare. I saddled her up and took her out to the round pen. I did ground work and I had every intention of riding her. I had her going so well, following my cues. She was cantering in both directions and I was just getting her to change directions with a twist of the lunge wip and pointing the other way. My girth broke and the saddle suddenly slipped and fell under her belly and it scared her to death. She began to gallop faster and faster. I was scared she'd fall and hurt herself. But I stayed calm and yelled WHOA. It took me a couple times, I asked her change directions and she DID! I said WHOA forcefully but not at a yell ... and she did the prettiest sliding stop you've ever seen! She was scared and breathing heavy. She was trembling. I think I was too. I'd been so frightened that she'd get tangled and fall.
I rubbed her and spoke softly and tried to let her know she was safe. I carefully undid the remaining girth strap and let the saddle slide off of her. I led her away from the rail to the middle of the pen. That's her resting spot. I looked closely at her legs and felt her belly for any injuries and seeing none I wrappend my arms around her graceful neck and hugged her. She pressed her head into my shoulder, in what we horse people describe as the best *hugs* on earth. We stood there. I nearly started to sob. But I was so proud of her for not coming unglued even though she was so scared. She ran, but she didn't buck or act out. I was so grateful she was ok! I was grateful that I stayed calm and got her out of a dangerous situation as quickly as I could.
I stood there hugging my horse for a long time. I thought about a lot of things. I thought about how frustrated Sylvi gets when words and letters get mixed up in her head and she can't read a sentence that she was able to read the day before. I thought about how many times I'd ran from things I was scared of. I thought about what keeps you grounded. For Terra (my mare) her training held true. She listened to me when it was most important. I've been so scared to ride her since my fall. But today we trusted each other in a significant way. I think we will be fine now.
For Sylvi, it's calm reassurance that if she just closes her eyes and takes a break from what she's trying to read then tries again when she's calmer ... the puzzle usually solves itself. Guess what Sylvi thinks of to calm her down? Her little pony, Junior.
You can't force trust, you can't force away fear ... but you can go back to what grounds you. You can find the calm place within and center there.
I've been so distracted and so far from the things that ground me and keep me the calm, rational, insightful person my friends have come to expect me to be.
I've let some of you down when you've come to me lately needing support and advice. I am sorry. I'm coming back to center. Back to my place of rest and calm. Soon, I'll be all I was and maybe a little better for some of the things I've had to deal with recently. Somethings are hard. Sometimes you get knocked down. Sometimes you get your heart stepped on. Sometimes your spirit is nearly broken. You can choose to let hardships influence positively or negatively. You can choose to be bitter. You can choose to feel broken and unmendable. OR ... you can get up, dust yourself off and be grateful for the blessings you do have. With a broken heart, you can learn to be more compassionate to others. When you've been knocked down you learn to reach out to help someone else up. When you spirit is banged up and bruised, you learn how to motivate others when you sense the same bedraggled spirit in them.
Life is a journey ... so enjoy the ride!
Blessings,
Tess
Right now, I am waiting tables at a local restaurant a few shifts a week for spending money and mostly to get out of the house and away from this computer! It's a lot of fun. I love the people I work with and I love our guests that come in to eat. So today I worked the lunch shift. It wasn't very busy and I was home before 3 pm. It was gorgeous here today!
I walked right in the house and took off my work clothes, put on my riding pants, an old t-shirt and ... my boots.
My boots are Ariat pull-ons, they were Wade's before they were mine. When I bought them for him, I knew they'd be mine when he outgrew them. It didn't take him long. They are black, but are scuffed so that in places they look brown. The soles are thin, it hurts my feet to walk on the big crusher run gravel in our driveway. They aren't cute. They aren't stylish.
They are utilitarian.
When I pull them on, I am transformed.
I am more determined. I am focused. I am ... cowgirl!
Today I pulled them on, went right out and got my mare. I saddled her up and took her out to the round pen. I did ground work and I had every intention of riding her. I had her going so well, following my cues. She was cantering in both directions and I was just getting her to change directions with a twist of the lunge wip and pointing the other way. My girth broke and the saddle suddenly slipped and fell under her belly and it scared her to death. She began to gallop faster and faster. I was scared she'd fall and hurt herself. But I stayed calm and yelled WHOA. It took me a couple times, I asked her change directions and she DID! I said WHOA forcefully but not at a yell ... and she did the prettiest sliding stop you've ever seen! She was scared and breathing heavy. She was trembling. I think I was too. I'd been so frightened that she'd get tangled and fall.
I rubbed her and spoke softly and tried to let her know she was safe. I carefully undid the remaining girth strap and let the saddle slide off of her. I led her away from the rail to the middle of the pen. That's her resting spot. I looked closely at her legs and felt her belly for any injuries and seeing none I wrappend my arms around her graceful neck and hugged her. She pressed her head into my shoulder, in what we horse people describe as the best *hugs* on earth. We stood there. I nearly started to sob. But I was so proud of her for not coming unglued even though she was so scared. She ran, but she didn't buck or act out. I was so grateful she was ok! I was grateful that I stayed calm and got her out of a dangerous situation as quickly as I could.
I stood there hugging my horse for a long time. I thought about a lot of things. I thought about how frustrated Sylvi gets when words and letters get mixed up in her head and she can't read a sentence that she was able to read the day before. I thought about how many times I'd ran from things I was scared of. I thought about what keeps you grounded. For Terra (my mare) her training held true. She listened to me when it was most important. I've been so scared to ride her since my fall. But today we trusted each other in a significant way. I think we will be fine now.
For Sylvi, it's calm reassurance that if she just closes her eyes and takes a break from what she's trying to read then tries again when she's calmer ... the puzzle usually solves itself. Guess what Sylvi thinks of to calm her down? Her little pony, Junior.
You can't force trust, you can't force away fear ... but you can go back to what grounds you. You can find the calm place within and center there.
I've been so distracted and so far from the things that ground me and keep me the calm, rational, insightful person my friends have come to expect me to be.
I've let some of you down when you've come to me lately needing support and advice. I am sorry. I'm coming back to center. Back to my place of rest and calm. Soon, I'll be all I was and maybe a little better for some of the things I've had to deal with recently. Somethings are hard. Sometimes you get knocked down. Sometimes you get your heart stepped on. Sometimes your spirit is nearly broken. You can choose to let hardships influence positively or negatively. You can choose to be bitter. You can choose to feel broken and unmendable. OR ... you can get up, dust yourself off and be grateful for the blessings you do have. With a broken heart, you can learn to be more compassionate to others. When you've been knocked down you learn to reach out to help someone else up. When you spirit is banged up and bruised, you learn how to motivate others when you sense the same bedraggled spirit in them.
Life is a journey ... so enjoy the ride!
Blessings,
Tess
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Blogging via email
Maybe I'll blog more now that I can do it from my email!
Abundant Blessings,
Tess
Tess
Tess H. Vanattia, M.A., Ph.D.
HorseSouth Magazine, INC & Teadora Media
30 Ridge Crest Drive | Blairsville, GA | 30512
678.448.7287 | Skype ( therese.vanattia )
tess@horsesouth.com
tess@horsesouth.com
Thursday, April 8, 2010
what just falls out sometimes ....
It always works out that when I need to write something, I can’t … but I can write something I want to. At least, that’s how it goes for me.
I guess there are a lot of quotes I could dig up about minding your tongue. There are many more about how your words affect folks. It's a two-way street. Your words might inspire or encourage or they might cut to the bone.
I'll share a very personal story.
About five days after my first child was born my then husband decided he didn't want to be married to me anymore. It sucked, pretty hard. I was mostly angry and because I had a precious newborn to care for I sort of adopted an attitude that I couldn't be bothered by his nonsensical crap. But I was broken on the inside, that big ol honkin' knife in my back was hard for me to ignore. Sometimes we package ourselves up in a way to seem more appealing to those we love or are partnered with. It’s not that we aren’t “ourselves” but sometimes you loose parts of yourself that were essential to the core of you. I had done that in this relationship, I cut away my cerebral tendencies, played down my intelligence. I lost so much of who I was. So the betrayal was two-fold for me.
My dear friend Templeton recently released a new album. She's an amazin' singer, songwriter, cowgirl poet. She has a song on this album called "Stronger in the broken places." http://www.templetonthompson.com
This song is an anthem for healing from anything that might have been a tough row to hoe for you. First time I heard it - tears instantly sprang to my eyes. It reminded me of nearly 13 years ago when I took my 6 week old baby to my post-havin'-a-baby appointment. I was alone. My husband was shacked up with his new love and I began the journey of raising my incredible son Wade on my own. In the waiting room this sweet and incredibly well meaning woman asked me or commented that she betted that my husband was sure proud of such a beautiful and perfect baby boy. Still full of a lot of anger, I said with as much grace as possible that I really wouldn't know. Without any great detail I explained that Wade's "dad" cheated on me while I was pregnant and was not really pitchin' in with the diaper changes. He was gone. I'll never forget that woman. She didn't belittle my ex-husband (who is making amends these days) but she said. "Well, honey ... you are in a better position than you think. You look in the mirror, you are so beautiful and you have this gorgeous baby boy and you will meet someone wonderful. You will meet a man that will fall in love with this child and with you, so don't you worry."
Her words were like a healing balm on a bad burn for me. Because at just 25 years old, I thought I was done. I’d loved two men at that point. One, who I could always be myself with, I’d lost due to my own stupidity and immaturity, and then my husband left me. I figured I was washed up. No more love for me. It’s amazing what you can dream up when you are feeling sorry for yourself.
I wish I knew that lady’s name.
She spoke my world into existence ... just threw it out there to the universe and about a year later I met Kent. Kent fell in love with Wade before he completely fell for me.
So what you say to someone, even if you are just bein' sweet or thoughtful can hold more meaning for someone than you ever realize.
We are stronger in the broken places ... love is a gamble; everyone’s bound to get knocked down. But, we all learn a little (or a lot) from each relationship.
I think that a lot of people feel broken these days (especially in the horse industry) because financial circumstances are beyond their control. It's hard not to feel broken when you don't have money to pay for the things you and your loved ones need. I know what that feels like. I also know we will all be better for the struggles. I really wonder if this isn't a higher power trying to wipe out that sense of entitlement that plagues our young people and many of their parents too. Many of us have been saying "we need to get back to basics" and how our values were eroding. Well, nothing will jerk you right into reality and make you aware of right from wrong like being absolutely forced live on the meager side. Maybe it's a collective smack upside the head? Variations of the quote “what doesn’t kill you, will make your stronger” have been etched into cave walls and still holds true today.
Having your circumstances change abruptly can make you a little jaded and cynical too. We can get past that. But moral decay is tough to turn around at a dead gallop, and baby – that horse has been stretched out and flat gettin’ it.
I don't know, but a lot of folks I know have spent the last year to 18 months getting back to those basics and enjoying time with their families. They are taking walks and enjoying simpler things.
I experience so much joy just from watching my kids. Yesterday, Sylvi and Wyatt stole an egg out of the fridge and were trying to “hatch” it. Sylvi is nine and knew better but she was humoring her little brother! My laughter was the product of pure, unadulterated amusement. You can't pay payments on that.
Just remember, no matter what happens … be it the loss of love, money or respect … tomorrow is another day. Take what you can from your mistakes and your experiences.
Regret can consume you if you don’t remember to ask yourself what you learned from stepping on the wrong path. A lesson sometimes will never make up for a loss you suffer.
This is true for me personally, but I am a better person today because of the mountains I’ve climbed, tunneled through or hiked around the long way.
I have three simple rules for life:
1. If you love someone tell them. Even if they don’t love you back you will make them feel special and they will remember you for how you made them feel. Complement people, they probably need it. Most of the time you are thinking … man I wish I could sing, play the guitar, paint, run, keep my house as clean, cook etc. etc. etc. as well as … anyway. Just tell them, geez.
2. Laugh, out loud and often as possible. Laugh at the absurdity, laugh at Murphy and his cruel jokes.
3. Remember to breathe, stop and look around … you are a puzzle piece in a giant jigsaw. But to know where you go, you have to be aware of where you are. Look up, pay attention and drink in the miracle of your existence. Everyone has a gift to share with the world. That’s the miracle of you.
Do these things and you’ll overcome most of your hurts and clear the obstacles that keep you from enjoying life.
You are stronger in the broken places!
peace and light
Tess
I guess there are a lot of quotes I could dig up about minding your tongue. There are many more about how your words affect folks. It's a two-way street. Your words might inspire or encourage or they might cut to the bone.
I'll share a very personal story.
About five days after my first child was born my then husband decided he didn't want to be married to me anymore. It sucked, pretty hard. I was mostly angry and because I had a precious newborn to care for I sort of adopted an attitude that I couldn't be bothered by his nonsensical crap. But I was broken on the inside, that big ol honkin' knife in my back was hard for me to ignore. Sometimes we package ourselves up in a way to seem more appealing to those we love or are partnered with. It’s not that we aren’t “ourselves” but sometimes you loose parts of yourself that were essential to the core of you. I had done that in this relationship, I cut away my cerebral tendencies, played down my intelligence. I lost so much of who I was. So the betrayal was two-fold for me.
My dear friend Templeton recently released a new album. She's an amazin' singer, songwriter, cowgirl poet. She has a song on this album called "Stronger in the broken places." http://www.templetonthompson.com
This song is an anthem for healing from anything that might have been a tough row to hoe for you. First time I heard it - tears instantly sprang to my eyes. It reminded me of nearly 13 years ago when I took my 6 week old baby to my post-havin'-a-baby appointment. I was alone. My husband was shacked up with his new love and I began the journey of raising my incredible son Wade on my own. In the waiting room this sweet and incredibly well meaning woman asked me or commented that she betted that my husband was sure proud of such a beautiful and perfect baby boy. Still full of a lot of anger, I said with as much grace as possible that I really wouldn't know. Without any great detail I explained that Wade's "dad" cheated on me while I was pregnant and was not really pitchin' in with the diaper changes. He was gone. I'll never forget that woman. She didn't belittle my ex-husband (who is making amends these days) but she said. "Well, honey ... you are in a better position than you think. You look in the mirror, you are so beautiful and you have this gorgeous baby boy and you will meet someone wonderful. You will meet a man that will fall in love with this child and with you, so don't you worry."
Her words were like a healing balm on a bad burn for me. Because at just 25 years old, I thought I was done. I’d loved two men at that point. One, who I could always be myself with, I’d lost due to my own stupidity and immaturity, and then my husband left me. I figured I was washed up. No more love for me. It’s amazing what you can dream up when you are feeling sorry for yourself.
I wish I knew that lady’s name.
She spoke my world into existence ... just threw it out there to the universe and about a year later I met Kent. Kent fell in love with Wade before he completely fell for me.
So what you say to someone, even if you are just bein' sweet or thoughtful can hold more meaning for someone than you ever realize.
We are stronger in the broken places ... love is a gamble; everyone’s bound to get knocked down. But, we all learn a little (or a lot) from each relationship.
I think that a lot of people feel broken these days (especially in the horse industry) because financial circumstances are beyond their control. It's hard not to feel broken when you don't have money to pay for the things you and your loved ones need. I know what that feels like. I also know we will all be better for the struggles. I really wonder if this isn't a higher power trying to wipe out that sense of entitlement that plagues our young people and many of their parents too. Many of us have been saying "we need to get back to basics" and how our values were eroding. Well, nothing will jerk you right into reality and make you aware of right from wrong like being absolutely forced live on the meager side. Maybe it's a collective smack upside the head? Variations of the quote “what doesn’t kill you, will make your stronger” have been etched into cave walls and still holds true today.
Having your circumstances change abruptly can make you a little jaded and cynical too. We can get past that. But moral decay is tough to turn around at a dead gallop, and baby – that horse has been stretched out and flat gettin’ it.
I don't know, but a lot of folks I know have spent the last year to 18 months getting back to those basics and enjoying time with their families. They are taking walks and enjoying simpler things.
I experience so much joy just from watching my kids. Yesterday, Sylvi and Wyatt stole an egg out of the fridge and were trying to “hatch” it. Sylvi is nine and knew better but she was humoring her little brother! My laughter was the product of pure, unadulterated amusement. You can't pay payments on that.
Just remember, no matter what happens … be it the loss of love, money or respect … tomorrow is another day. Take what you can from your mistakes and your experiences.
Regret can consume you if you don’t remember to ask yourself what you learned from stepping on the wrong path. A lesson sometimes will never make up for a loss you suffer.
This is true for me personally, but I am a better person today because of the mountains I’ve climbed, tunneled through or hiked around the long way.
I have three simple rules for life:
1. If you love someone tell them. Even if they don’t love you back you will make them feel special and they will remember you for how you made them feel. Complement people, they probably need it. Most of the time you are thinking … man I wish I could sing, play the guitar, paint, run, keep my house as clean, cook etc. etc. etc. as well as … anyway. Just tell them, geez.
2. Laugh, out loud and often as possible. Laugh at the absurdity, laugh at Murphy and his cruel jokes.
3. Remember to breathe, stop and look around … you are a puzzle piece in a giant jigsaw. But to know where you go, you have to be aware of where you are. Look up, pay attention and drink in the miracle of your existence. Everyone has a gift to share with the world. That’s the miracle of you.
Do these things and you’ll overcome most of your hurts and clear the obstacles that keep you from enjoying life.
You are stronger in the broken places!
peace and light
Tess
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Road to the Horse day 1
Jody Wood of the Wood Ranch brought a beautiful remuda for 2010. Greys, palominos, some striking bays ... it's alw.ays nice when the herd is colorful. These three year olds were also playful, alert and active.
I'll post photos on my return home.
I always like to ask folks which colt they would have picked. Interestingly, Tommmy Garland said he wouldn't have picked any of the colts choosen. He favored the bays. Josh Lyons did like the #9 horse. Ken McNabb chose #9, WR Turning Diamonds, a 2007 gray gelding by Blue Diamond Hancock out of Turning Commander.
Cameron chose colt #10, WR Shining Alamo, a 2007 palomino by Shining King Cody out of Alamosa Annie. Richard Winters chose #1, WR Shiner Flashback, a 2007 sorrel gelding by Shining King Cody by Flashy Flashback.
Winter's haltered his horse first and according to our resident training expert Jody Cook, may be ever so slightly further along than McNabb & Cameron. That said, Craig spent a lot of time bonding and rubbing his horse. It's so hard to tell this early.
All the horses were haltered and introduced to desensitization techniques of various degrees. But none were saddled.
They are closely matched for tomorrow's round pen sessions. It's just too early in the game to know. Predictions are all over the place.
On another note, the riding demos where outstanding.
Ken McNabb left not a dry eye in the house. He rode to the song "my father in me" while Trent and Kirk, his young sons played with cars in the dirt at the center of the arena. His flying lead changes, diagonals and half passes were outstanding. But when Kurt McNabb, Ken's father joined the boys to play ... 5000 people were moved beyond words. They wrapped the tear jerking ride with Ken dismounting and all four McNabb's walking out hand in hand.
Craig Cameron rode to a montage of two songs - and this man's ability to maneuver his horse at breakneck speeds is why he is the original "Extreme Cowboy". His seat is sublime and his cues are invisible - his ride is awe inspiring.
Richard Winters and his daughter Sara (age 20) executed dual reining spins, wore matching chaps and hats and executed a routine that rivaled any freestyle dressage or reining performance I've ever seen ... well, except Stacy Westfall's ... but really - how do you trump Stacy?
The opening ceremonies brought together Kurt and Trent McNabb and Tootie Bland's neices (4th generation Bland cowgirls) to carry the sponsor flags and Shortie Tarpley, wife of the new (and completely awesome by the way) boss wrangler Adam Tarpley.
For entertainment the incomparable "One Armed Bandit" John Payne was back with his buffalo, his mule and a new paint pony we should see him ride tomorrow. He ain't the 10 time PRCA entertainment act of the year for nothin' - it's just flat out jaw dropping to see him herd two buffalo up on top of a stock trailer and execute a reining spin on the same trailer while said trailer is pulling out of the arena.
and ... that, is all for tonight folks!
I'll post photos on my return home.
I always like to ask folks which colt they would have picked. Interestingly, Tommmy Garland said he wouldn't have picked any of the colts choosen. He favored the bays. Josh Lyons did like the #9 horse. Ken McNabb chose #9, WR Turning Diamonds, a 2007 gray gelding by Blue Diamond Hancock out of Turning Commander.
Cameron chose colt #10, WR Shining Alamo, a 2007 palomino by Shining King Cody out of Alamosa Annie. Richard Winters chose #1, WR Shiner Flashback, a 2007 sorrel gelding by Shining King Cody by Flashy Flashback.
Winter's haltered his horse first and according to our resident training expert Jody Cook, may be ever so slightly further along than McNabb & Cameron. That said, Craig spent a lot of time bonding and rubbing his horse. It's so hard to tell this early.
All the horses were haltered and introduced to desensitization techniques of various degrees. But none were saddled.
They are closely matched for tomorrow's round pen sessions. It's just too early in the game to know. Predictions are all over the place.
On another note, the riding demos where outstanding.
Ken McNabb left not a dry eye in the house. He rode to the song "my father in me" while Trent and Kirk, his young sons played with cars in the dirt at the center of the arena. His flying lead changes, diagonals and half passes were outstanding. But when Kurt McNabb, Ken's father joined the boys to play ... 5000 people were moved beyond words. They wrapped the tear jerking ride with Ken dismounting and all four McNabb's walking out hand in hand.
Craig Cameron rode to a montage of two songs - and this man's ability to maneuver his horse at breakneck speeds is why he is the original "Extreme Cowboy". His seat is sublime and his cues are invisible - his ride is awe inspiring.
Richard Winters and his daughter Sara (age 20) executed dual reining spins, wore matching chaps and hats and executed a routine that rivaled any freestyle dressage or reining performance I've ever seen ... well, except Stacy Westfall's ... but really - how do you trump Stacy?
The opening ceremonies brought together Kurt and Trent McNabb and Tootie Bland's neices (4th generation Bland cowgirls) to carry the sponsor flags and Shortie Tarpley, wife of the new (and completely awesome by the way) boss wrangler Adam Tarpley.
For entertainment the incomparable "One Armed Bandit" John Payne was back with his buffalo, his mule and a new paint pony we should see him ride tomorrow. He ain't the 10 time PRCA entertainment act of the year for nothin' - it's just flat out jaw dropping to see him herd two buffalo up on top of a stock trailer and execute a reining spin on the same trailer while said trailer is pulling out of the arena.
and ... that, is all for tonight folks!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
The Sanctuary Helps Raise Money For Charity With Successful Bernie Traurig Clinic and Standing Room Only Gala
For Immediate Release –
For more information contact:
Tom Grabe
The Sanctuary Equine Sports
Therapy & Rehabilitation Center
www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com
1-352-369-HEAL (4325)
The Sanctuary Helps Raise Money For Charity With Successful Bernie Traurig Clinic and Standing Room Only Gala
Ocala, FL (February 11, 2010) – A clinic by Olympian Bernie Traurig, held at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, proved to be an over-the-top success that brought in top professionals as well as amateur and youth riders. Traurig, one of the most respected and sought after clinicians in the country, gave the clinic in conjunction with Global Connection, and a portion of the proceeds from the event benefited Horses and Heroes.
“Bernie’s clinic was an amazing success,” said Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sanctuary. “The Saturday night gala dinner and silent auction were standing room only, and a great deal of money was raised for the Horses and Heroes charity.”
Traurig, reached the top of the horse show world in all three of the International Equestrian Olympic disciplines -- show jumping, dressage, and eventing – and was able to share his vast experience and talent with the clinicians. “Bernie is considered the greatest master of equestrian sport, so it was a thrill to watch him teach,” McDuffee said.
In addition to teaching the clinic, Traurig was available for a meet and greet during the Saturday night gala dinner and silent auction. “We are thrilled with how well the gala and auction went,” McDuffee said. “It was standing room only during the evening and it was exciting to see how much money was raised for charity.”
The clinic, gala and auction were held at the state-of-the-art Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, a multi-million dollar facility in Ocala dedicated to the healing, conditioning and well being of all equine athletes. The Sanctuary offers the latest in technological equipment designed to promote safe and rapid advancement for horses recovering from injury or in need of training.
A variety of physical therapy options at The Sanctuary also enable horses to receive the care that benefits them the most. The Sanctuary’s skilled staff is thoroughly trained and knowledgeable, with a passion for horses and the desire to see each horse return well rested, fit and ready to perform at the top of his game. For more information on The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center, visit their website at www.sanctuaryequinerehab.com.
-30-
Photo: Olympian Bernie Traurig taught a successful clinic at The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Ocala, sharing his vast show knowledge with professionals, amateurs and youth. Presented by Global Connection, a portion of the proceeds from the event benefited Horses and Heroes. (Photo courtesy of the Equine Chronicle)
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Birmingham Equine Shortcourse ... registry includes a chance to win 1 Ton of Purina Feed!
1st Annual
Birmingham Equine Shortcourse
Performance Horse Emphasis
February 20, 2010
Saturday, 8am-2pm
Inverness Country Club
#1 Country Club Drive
Birmingham, Al 35242
Drawing for a ton of Purina Feed
Speakers:
Dr. Kelly Vineyard, Nutritionist, Purina Mills “Nutrition of the Performance Horse and Supplements”
Laura Hellman DVM, Southern Equine Services, “Colic”
Kristen Talbott DVM, Coosa Valley Equine Hospital “Poisons”
Jud Easterwood DVM, Harrington Equine Hospital “Lameness”
Hosted by: Purina Mills, C&R Feed and Coosa Valley Milling
Lunch Provided
$25.00 pre register or $30.00 at the door
RSVP: 205-965-9494
rbowles@landolakes.com
Send Check by Feb 16 please
Rhonda Johnson Bowles
22401 US Hwy 411
Ashville, Al 35953
Bringing the latest research to you!
From our farm to yours!
Land O’Lakes Purina Feed
Birmingham Equine Shortcourse
Performance Horse Emphasis
February 20, 2010
Saturday, 8am-2pm
Inverness Country Club
#1 Country Club Drive
Birmingham, Al 35242
Drawing for a ton of Purina Feed
Speakers:
Dr. Kelly Vineyard, Nutritionist, Purina Mills “Nutrition of the Performance Horse and Supplements”
Laura Hellman DVM, Southern Equine Services, “Colic”
Kristen Talbott DVM, Coosa Valley Equine Hospital “Poisons”
Jud Easterwood DVM, Harrington Equine Hospital “Lameness”
Hosted by: Purina Mills, C&R Feed and Coosa Valley Milling
Lunch Provided
$25.00 pre register or $30.00 at the door
RSVP: 205-965-9494
rbowles@landolakes.com
Send Check by Feb 16 please
Rhonda Johnson Bowles
22401 US Hwy 411
Ashville, Al 35953
Bringing the latest research to you!
From our farm to yours!
Land O’Lakes Purina Feed
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
New Book On Small Equines Celebrates Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies
For Immediate Release –
For more information contact the:
American Shetland Pony Club
American Miniature Horse Registry
Zona Schneider, Director of Operations
309-263-4044
zona@shetlandminiature.com
New Book On Small Equines Celebrates Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies
Wellington, FL (December 1, 2009) – A new book on small equines is celebrating the small but mighty Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses in a big way! The Big Book of Small Equines, A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies, by Johnny Robb and Jan Westmark (Skyhorse Publishing, $29.95 Hardcover) is now available and being embraced by horse enthusiasts everywhere.
Filled with colorful stories of small equines, as well as beautiful full-page color photographs from some of the country’s most recognized equine photographers, the book embraces America’s love affair with small equines. New York Times Bestselling author Tami Hoag penned the foreward for the book, detailing her own love of a Shetland Pony named Dan that began her life-long love of horses.
Hoag writes in the foreward that Dan was the dream pony that every horse crazy kid imagines. “My very first horse show was with Dan. I drove him in a homemade cart with wheels salvaged from a Model-A car. We placed fifth out of five, but I got a big pink ribbon and never looked back.”
The Big Book of Small Equines also takes a look at several well-known equestrians who all started their riding careers on small equines. International dressage competitor George Williams, who represented the United States in the World Cup in Sweden and in Germany, is featured in a story about his Shetland Pony Mitzi “I would use a ladder to climb up her rump and get on her,” George fondly recalled.
Television star and style guru Carson Kressley, known for his shows Queer Eye for the Straight Guy and How to Look Good Naked, also began his career on Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses. Today, in addition to being a fashion and design expert Kressley is a Champion Saddlebred rider but says he will always have a soft spot for small equines.
The Big Book of Small Equines, A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies, captures the charm and delight that small equines have brought to so many riders. The book is available online at Skyhorse Publishing, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. It is also available in bookstores throughout the country and through the American Shetland Pony Club American Miniature Horse Registry website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.
For more information contact the:
American Shetland Pony Club
American Miniature Horse Registry
Zona Schneider, Director of Operations
309-263-4044
zona@shetlandminiature.com
New Book On Small Equines Celebrates Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies
Wellington, FL (December 1, 2009) – A new book on small equines is celebrating the small but mighty Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses in a big way! The Big Book of Small Equines, A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies, by Johnny Robb and Jan Westmark (Skyhorse Publishing, $29.95 Hardcover) is now available and being embraced by horse enthusiasts everywhere.
Filled with colorful stories of small equines, as well as beautiful full-page color photographs from some of the country’s most recognized equine photographers, the book embraces America’s love affair with small equines. New York Times Bestselling author Tami Hoag penned the foreward for the book, detailing her own love of a Shetland Pony named Dan that began her life-long love of horses.
Hoag writes in the foreward that Dan was the dream pony that every horse crazy kid imagines. “My very first horse show was with Dan. I drove him in a homemade cart with wheels salvaged from a Model-A car. We placed fifth out of five, but I got a big pink ribbon and never looked back.”
The Big Book of Small Equines also takes a look at several well-known equestrians who all started their riding careers on small equines. International dressage competitor George Williams, who represented the United States in the World Cup in Sweden and in Germany, is featured in a story about his Shetland Pony Mitzi “I would use a ladder to climb up her rump and get on her,” George fondly recalled.
Television star and style guru Carson Kressley, known for his shows Queer Eye for the Straight Guy and How to Look Good Naked, also began his career on Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses. Today, in addition to being a fashion and design expert Kressley is a Champion Saddlebred rider but says he will always have a soft spot for small equines.
The Big Book of Small Equines, A Celebration of Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies, captures the charm and delight that small equines have brought to so many riders. The book is available online at Skyhorse Publishing, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. It is also available in bookstores throughout the country and through the American Shetland Pony Club American Miniature Horse Registry website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Scholarship Established in Honor of Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi
Scholarship Established in Honor of Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi
A scholarship in honor of Patrick Swayze and his wife Lisa Niemi has been established by the Arabian Horse Foundation (AHF), based in Denver, Colorado. Swayze and Niemi have had close ties to the Arabian horse breed and owned Arabian horses for many years. The Foundation is the charitable arm of the Arabian Horse Association (AHA), also based in Denver.
Announcement of the scholarship was made at the association’s annual convention in Reno, Nev., November 19-21. The scholarship will be awarded annually in the spring to a youth who is involved with Arabian horses and aspires to a career in the performing arts. Scholarship applications are available online. The scholarship was launched with an initial pledge by Iron Horse Farms and Trisha Phelan of Canton, Georgia.
“The establishment of the Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi Scholarship was a natural fit for the foundation and the association,” explained AHF President, Larry Kinneer, who made the announcement before approximately 400 delegates and alternates. “Establishment of the scholarship creates a lasting testimony to their careers in dancing, theatre and movies, love of the Arabian breed and contributions over the years to AHA youth programs.”
A highlight and emotion-filled moment at the convention was the showing of a video that captured special times in the life of the late film star and performer who died in September after a lengthy battle with cancer.
The Arabian Horse Foundation has several categories to which donations can be directed: Youth Scholarships, Horse Rescue and Rehoming and Equine Research. In the past two years, the foundation has given over $60,000 in grants in these particular areas. “Having options for people to decide how they want their donations used is a great benefit and incentive for the donor,” Kinneer explained.
“Now, we have established a very special scholarship for people to direct their contribution to. Donations are needed to assure the scholarship will be there for deserving students in the future.”
Kinneer added, “We are looking, not only at the Arabian horse community to lend financial support to this scholarship, but to the public who admired the work of both Patrick and Lisa over the years and want to honor them in a special way. A generous amount of funding will assure the scholarship’s longevity and could lead to more than one youth being awarded the scholarship per year.”
Both Patrick and Lisa competed for many years in Arabian horse shows, often drawing spectators and fans to watch them perform. “Several years ago, Patrick Swayze had a beautiful poster produced picturing him with his champion Arabian stallion, “Tammen,” Kinneer said. “The poster was sold and continues to be sold with profits going to youth programming for AHA. It has become a collector’s item with inquiries from all over the world about how one can obtain one of the posters.” The posters are available by phoning AHA, (303) 696-4500.
Donations to the Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi Scholarship can be made by sending a check to the Arabian Horse Foundation, 10805 E. Bethany Rd., Aurora, CO., 80014-2605. Be sure to indicate the donation is for the Swayze/Niemi Scholarship. It is also possible to make a donation online by visiting www.arabianhorsefoundation.org.
A scholarship in honor of Patrick Swayze and his wife Lisa Niemi has been established by the Arabian Horse Foundation (AHF), based in Denver, Colorado. Swayze and Niemi have had close ties to the Arabian horse breed and owned Arabian horses for many years. The Foundation is the charitable arm of the Arabian Horse Association (AHA), also based in Denver.
Announcement of the scholarship was made at the association’s annual convention in Reno, Nev., November 19-21. The scholarship will be awarded annually in the spring to a youth who is involved with Arabian horses and aspires to a career in the performing arts. Scholarship applications are available online. The scholarship was launched with an initial pledge by Iron Horse Farms and Trisha Phelan of Canton, Georgia.
“The establishment of the Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi Scholarship was a natural fit for the foundation and the association,” explained AHF President, Larry Kinneer, who made the announcement before approximately 400 delegates and alternates. “Establishment of the scholarship creates a lasting testimony to their careers in dancing, theatre and movies, love of the Arabian breed and contributions over the years to AHA youth programs.”
A highlight and emotion-filled moment at the convention was the showing of a video that captured special times in the life of the late film star and performer who died in September after a lengthy battle with cancer.
The Arabian Horse Foundation has several categories to which donations can be directed: Youth Scholarships, Horse Rescue and Rehoming and Equine Research. In the past two years, the foundation has given over $60,000 in grants in these particular areas. “Having options for people to decide how they want their donations used is a great benefit and incentive for the donor,” Kinneer explained.
“Now, we have established a very special scholarship for people to direct their contribution to. Donations are needed to assure the scholarship will be there for deserving students in the future.”
Kinneer added, “We are looking, not only at the Arabian horse community to lend financial support to this scholarship, but to the public who admired the work of both Patrick and Lisa over the years and want to honor them in a special way. A generous amount of funding will assure the scholarship’s longevity and could lead to more than one youth being awarded the scholarship per year.”
Both Patrick and Lisa competed for many years in Arabian horse shows, often drawing spectators and fans to watch them perform. “Several years ago, Patrick Swayze had a beautiful poster produced picturing him with his champion Arabian stallion, “Tammen,” Kinneer said. “The poster was sold and continues to be sold with profits going to youth programming for AHA. It has become a collector’s item with inquiries from all over the world about how one can obtain one of the posters.” The posters are available by phoning AHA, (303) 696-4500.
Donations to the Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi Scholarship can be made by sending a check to the Arabian Horse Foundation, 10805 E. Bethany Rd., Aurora, CO., 80014-2605. Be sure to indicate the donation is for the Swayze/Niemi Scholarship. It is also possible to make a donation online by visiting www.arabianhorsefoundation.org.
Over $100,000 in High JR-Amateur Owners Jumpers Added to Gulf Coast Winter Classics
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Client: The Classic Company
MEDIA CONTACT: Robbi Meisel, (859) 734-3713 robbi@flashpointmediaservices.com
Over $100,000 in High JR-Amateur Owners Jumpers Added to Gulf Coast Winter Classics
Harrodsburg, KY—November 30, 2009—While many events are making cut backs in prize money Bob Bell and Janet McCarroll, co-managers of the 2010 Gulf Coast Winter Series, were ecstatic to announce an increase to the High Junior and Amateur Owner Jumpers this season.
Over $100,000 will be awarded during the six-week 2010 winter series. “That is a lot!” a happy Bell commented. The high section will offer $2000 per class and on the weekends there will be a $15,000 High Jumper Classic –“this is for each and every week!” said Bell. Thanks to new sponsor Nordic Lights Farm the spotlight will shine brightly for this talented group of jumpers. “We’re so appreciative of the Bruheim family and Nordic Lights’ support and the ability to reward our exhibitors’ hard work to compete at this level of competition.” Janet McCarroll said.
The Low section of the Junior-Amateur Owners jumpers will see an increase in their purses as well. Each class will offer $1000 and there will be six $5000 Jumper Classics. And not to be forgotten the Children’s and Adult Jumper divisions will award $500 in each class and their weekly Classics will increase to $2500 with NO Nomination fee required.
Grand Prix jumpers have some added incentives – Six $25,000 classes in 4 weeks! Befitting of the nearby casino action, Week Three will offer riders the chance to double down with a $25,000 Welcome Prix presented by EMO Insurance and the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix. But it doesn’t stop there- Nordic Lights Farm and the Bruheim family will sponsor a new $25,000 Welcome Grand Prix prior to the $25,000 Budweiser Grand Prix during week five of the series. “The added prize money is great, but it’s more than the money that keeps riders happy…and returning.” Bell continued, “We have one the best grass fields in the country. Horses love it, riders love it, and our course designers love it! A lot of our riders say the money is just the cherry on top to their Sundae treat of competing in Gulfport.” New Orleans, LA based professional rider and longtime attendee of the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, Sean Steffee said of recent years big growth in the jumpers, “Well the best kept secret for winter showing is definitely out! Gulfport is becoming the place to be…and it should. Aside from great footing, stalls, staff, and the normal things we all look for in a series, Gulfport is simply GREAT fun!”
The Young Jumpers are expanding in 2010 as well. Instead of one class per age group, this season will offer 3 class divisions for the up and coming talents of tomorrow. “We wanted to provide a better showcase for the young horses outside of their previous choices of one special class and a handful of regular classes, so we’ve added divisions just for them.” Bell explained.
“And I want the hunters to know we’re not forgetting them either. Week Four will be our Celebration of Hunters!” Bell said. Packed into this special week will be the World Championship Hunter Rider class, the USHJA International Hunter Derby, a delectable luncheon honoring the hunters, and the new USHJA 3 Foot Hunter Derby.
Bell went on to say their new motto, “The Change You’re Looking For” is evident not only with new additions of prize money, special classes, wonderful venues, but in bringing the enjoyment of horse showing back to the exhibitors. “Isn’t it suppose to be fun? That’s what I ask myself with every show we plan.” Bell concluded. Classic Company believes they’ve got the answer with a combined total of 13 weeks USEF AA rated competitions. Beginning with the blustery month of January riders facing harsh cold weather in the US and Canada can enjoy 5 weeks at the Jacksonville Winter Series, January 6th-February 7th, held in Green Cove Springs, FL then take a leisurely drive over to Gulfport, MS for the next 6 weeks, February 10th – March 21st, and finally welcome spring with 2 weeks at the Atlanta Spring Classics, March 24th-April 4th, located at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers.
To learn more about Gulf Coast Winter Classics please visit www.classiccompany.com or call the office at 843.768.5503. To book hotel or condo reservations please contact Connections at 800-262-9974.
Flashpoint Media Services, based in Harrodsburg, KY, is a comprehensive public relations firm specializing in the equestrian sports. For additional information contact Robbi Meisel, 859-734 3713, robbi@flashpointmediaservices.com
Client: The Classic Company
MEDIA CONTACT: Robbi Meisel, (859) 734-3713 robbi@flashpointmediaservices.com
Over $100,000 in High JR-Amateur Owners Jumpers Added to Gulf Coast Winter Classics
Harrodsburg, KY—November 30, 2009—While many events are making cut backs in prize money Bob Bell and Janet McCarroll, co-managers of the 2010 Gulf Coast Winter Series, were ecstatic to announce an increase to the High Junior and Amateur Owner Jumpers this season.
Over $100,000 will be awarded during the six-week 2010 winter series. “That is a lot!” a happy Bell commented. The high section will offer $2000 per class and on the weekends there will be a $15,000 High Jumper Classic –“this is for each and every week!” said Bell. Thanks to new sponsor Nordic Lights Farm the spotlight will shine brightly for this talented group of jumpers. “We’re so appreciative of the Bruheim family and Nordic Lights’ support and the ability to reward our exhibitors’ hard work to compete at this level of competition.” Janet McCarroll said.
The Low section of the Junior-Amateur Owners jumpers will see an increase in their purses as well. Each class will offer $1000 and there will be six $5000 Jumper Classics. And not to be forgotten the Children’s and Adult Jumper divisions will award $500 in each class and their weekly Classics will increase to $2500 with NO Nomination fee required.
Grand Prix jumpers have some added incentives – Six $25,000 classes in 4 weeks! Befitting of the nearby casino action, Week Three will offer riders the chance to double down with a $25,000 Welcome Prix presented by EMO Insurance and the $25,000 Nutrena Grand Prix. But it doesn’t stop there- Nordic Lights Farm and the Bruheim family will sponsor a new $25,000 Welcome Grand Prix prior to the $25,000 Budweiser Grand Prix during week five of the series. “The added prize money is great, but it’s more than the money that keeps riders happy…and returning.” Bell continued, “We have one the best grass fields in the country. Horses love it, riders love it, and our course designers love it! A lot of our riders say the money is just the cherry on top to their Sundae treat of competing in Gulfport.” New Orleans, LA based professional rider and longtime attendee of the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, Sean Steffee said of recent years big growth in the jumpers, “Well the best kept secret for winter showing is definitely out! Gulfport is becoming the place to be…and it should. Aside from great footing, stalls, staff, and the normal things we all look for in a series, Gulfport is simply GREAT fun!”
The Young Jumpers are expanding in 2010 as well. Instead of one class per age group, this season will offer 3 class divisions for the up and coming talents of tomorrow. “We wanted to provide a better showcase for the young horses outside of their previous choices of one special class and a handful of regular classes, so we’ve added divisions just for them.” Bell explained.
“And I want the hunters to know we’re not forgetting them either. Week Four will be our Celebration of Hunters!” Bell said. Packed into this special week will be the World Championship Hunter Rider class, the USHJA International Hunter Derby, a delectable luncheon honoring the hunters, and the new USHJA 3 Foot Hunter Derby.
Bell went on to say their new motto, “The Change You’re Looking For” is evident not only with new additions of prize money, special classes, wonderful venues, but in bringing the enjoyment of horse showing back to the exhibitors. “Isn’t it suppose to be fun? That’s what I ask myself with every show we plan.” Bell concluded. Classic Company believes they’ve got the answer with a combined total of 13 weeks USEF AA rated competitions. Beginning with the blustery month of January riders facing harsh cold weather in the US and Canada can enjoy 5 weeks at the Jacksonville Winter Series, January 6th-February 7th, held in Green Cove Springs, FL then take a leisurely drive over to Gulfport, MS for the next 6 weeks, February 10th – March 21st, and finally welcome spring with 2 weeks at the Atlanta Spring Classics, March 24th-April 4th, located at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers.
To learn more about Gulf Coast Winter Classics please visit www.classiccompany.com or call the office at 843.768.5503. To book hotel or condo reservations please contact Connections at 800-262-9974.
Flashpoint Media Services, based in Harrodsburg, KY, is a comprehensive public relations firm specializing in the equestrian sports. For additional information contact Robbi Meisel, 859-734 3713, robbi@flashpointmediaservices.com
Friday, November 13, 2009
AQHA Offers New Releases on DVD
AQHA Offers New Releases on DVD
“Showing to Win: Trail” and “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” available at the AQHA World Championship Show this month.
The American Quarter Horse Journal, November 13, 2009 – With the release of the second DVD in the Showing to Win series – “Showing to Win: Trail” – AQHA has once again piqued the interest of the horse-showing public. When it was released in the spring, “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” became the best-selling AQHA DVD of all time. Now “Showing to Win: Trail” is riding the same trail to the top of AQHA sales. These DVDs are geared for all exhibitors, trainers and judges.
For “Showing to Win: Trail,” AQHA teamed with some of the best-known and well-respected AQHA Professional Horsemen, judges and exhibitors in Charlie Cole, Leslie Lange and Jim Searles, who walk viewers through the required parts of the pattern and explain the maneuver scores, pluses and minuses.
“Showing to Win: Trail” illustrates the standards and provides information exhibitors need to successfully navigate a trail pattern and the judge’s score card. Using unique graphics and video technology, “Showing to Win: Trail” defines the trail scoring system and what the judges are looking for in a trail pattern.
“This DVD series is designed to help exhibitors understand the rules and the judging standards of the classes to help improve the performance of their horses in the show pen,” said Alex Ross, AQHA executive director of judges. “We appreciate the AQHA Professional Horsemen who shared their expertise in trail to help other exhibitors become better riders.”
Retailing at $24.95, AQHA members receive a $5 discount and can purchase either video for $19.95. “Showing to Win: Trail” and “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” will both be available for purchase at the Quarter Horse Outfitters booth at the AQHA World Championship Show Trade Show, November 6-21 in Oklahoma City. The DVDs also can be purchased online at Quarter Horse Outfitters, www.aqhastore.com.
Watch for more class DVDs in the Showing to Win series to be released by AQHA.
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.
“Showing to Win: Trail” and “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” available at the AQHA World Championship Show this month.
The American Quarter Horse Journal, November 13, 2009 – With the release of the second DVD in the Showing to Win series – “Showing to Win: Trail” – AQHA has once again piqued the interest of the horse-showing public. When it was released in the spring, “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” became the best-selling AQHA DVD of all time. Now “Showing to Win: Trail” is riding the same trail to the top of AQHA sales. These DVDs are geared for all exhibitors, trainers and judges.
For “Showing to Win: Trail,” AQHA teamed with some of the best-known and well-respected AQHA Professional Horsemen, judges and exhibitors in Charlie Cole, Leslie Lange and Jim Searles, who walk viewers through the required parts of the pattern and explain the maneuver scores, pluses and minuses.
“Showing to Win: Trail” illustrates the standards and provides information exhibitors need to successfully navigate a trail pattern and the judge’s score card. Using unique graphics and video technology, “Showing to Win: Trail” defines the trail scoring system and what the judges are looking for in a trail pattern.
“This DVD series is designed to help exhibitors understand the rules and the judging standards of the classes to help improve the performance of their horses in the show pen,” said Alex Ross, AQHA executive director of judges. “We appreciate the AQHA Professional Horsemen who shared their expertise in trail to help other exhibitors become better riders.”
Retailing at $24.95, AQHA members receive a $5 discount and can purchase either video for $19.95. “Showing to Win: Trail” and “Showing to Win: Western Pleasure” will both be available for purchase at the Quarter Horse Outfitters booth at the AQHA World Championship Show Trade Show, November 6-21 in Oklahoma City. The DVDs also can be purchased online at Quarter Horse Outfitters, www.aqhastore.com.
Watch for more class DVDs in the Showing to Win series to be released by AQHA.
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.
QUALITY APPALOOSAS SELL BIG AT 2009 WORLD APPALOOSA SALE
NEWS RELEASE
November 12, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Information:
Karisa Saywers, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: (208) 882-5578 ext. 273
Fax: (208) 882-8150
QUALITY APPALOOSAS SELL BIG AT 2009 WORLD APPALOOSA SALE
FORT WORTH, Texas— Consignors and prospective buyers gathered Oct. 28 at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, to view more than 90 quality Appaloosas up for auction in the 2009 World Appaloosa Sale, held in conjunction with the prestigious 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Show.
The highly anticipated event, hosted by the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), was comprised of several sales, including the Yearling Incentive Sale, the Broodmare Incentive Sale and the Select Appaloosa Sale. Consigners and buyers enjoyed a reception hosted by Dubai To Vegas Equine LLC.
The overall average for horses sold was $2,783; more than 60 percent of the consignments sold to new owners. Appaloosas in the incentive portion had an average price tag of $3,380, and the high-seller sold for $13,500. Horses consigned to the Select Sale had an average selling price of $1,473, with the highest bid being $5,500. View complete sale details at www.appaloosa.com and click the World Sale icon.
“While everyone understands the impact of tough economic conditions, the 2009 sale showcased an outstanding group of Appaloosa horses and gave buyers the opportunity to add proven genetics to their programs,” said ApHC CEO Steve Taylor.
Appaloosas purchased through the Yearling Incentive Sale will be eligible to compete in the Two-Year-Old World Sale Incentive classes at the 2010 World Championship Appaloosa Show in Fort Worth, Texas. In addition, the resulting foals of mares in the Broodmare Incentive Sale qualify to participate in World Sale Incentive classes as two year olds. These classes are guaranteed to offer $10,000 in prize money.
While the auction attracted many ApHC members and buyers from throughout the country, the 2009 World Appaloosa Sale was truly a global event, with representatives from the following affiliates participating: Asociación Argentina de Criadores de Caballos Appaloosa, Australian Appaloosa Association, Appaloosa Horse Club United Kingdom Ltd, Asociacion del Caballo Appaloosa de México, Appaloosa Horse Club of Brazil and Associazione Italiana Appaloosa as well as buyers from Uruguay.
Consignments for the 2010 World Appaloosa Sale will be available in the coming months and due August 1, 2010. Stay tuned to www.appaloosa.com for more information!
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 690,000 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 or 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.
November 12, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Information:
Karisa Saywers, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: (208) 882-5578 ext. 273
Fax: (208) 882-8150
QUALITY APPALOOSAS SELL BIG AT 2009 WORLD APPALOOSA SALE
FORT WORTH, Texas— Consignors and prospective buyers gathered Oct. 28 at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, to view more than 90 quality Appaloosas up for auction in the 2009 World Appaloosa Sale, held in conjunction with the prestigious 2009 World Championship Appaloosa Show.
The highly anticipated event, hosted by the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), was comprised of several sales, including the Yearling Incentive Sale, the Broodmare Incentive Sale and the Select Appaloosa Sale. Consigners and buyers enjoyed a reception hosted by Dubai To Vegas Equine LLC.
The overall average for horses sold was $2,783; more than 60 percent of the consignments sold to new owners. Appaloosas in the incentive portion had an average price tag of $3,380, and the high-seller sold for $13,500. Horses consigned to the Select Sale had an average selling price of $1,473, with the highest bid being $5,500. View complete sale details at www.appaloosa.com and click the World Sale icon.
“While everyone understands the impact of tough economic conditions, the 2009 sale showcased an outstanding group of Appaloosa horses and gave buyers the opportunity to add proven genetics to their programs,” said ApHC CEO Steve Taylor.
Appaloosas purchased through the Yearling Incentive Sale will be eligible to compete in the Two-Year-Old World Sale Incentive classes at the 2010 World Championship Appaloosa Show in Fort Worth, Texas. In addition, the resulting foals of mares in the Broodmare Incentive Sale qualify to participate in World Sale Incentive classes as two year olds. These classes are guaranteed to offer $10,000 in prize money.
While the auction attracted many ApHC members and buyers from throughout the country, the 2009 World Appaloosa Sale was truly a global event, with representatives from the following affiliates participating: Asociación Argentina de Criadores de Caballos Appaloosa, Australian Appaloosa Association, Appaloosa Horse Club United Kingdom Ltd, Asociacion del Caballo Appaloosa de México, Appaloosa Horse Club of Brazil and Associazione Italiana Appaloosa as well as buyers from Uruguay.
Consignments for the 2010 World Appaloosa Sale will be available in the coming months and due August 1, 2010. Stay tuned to www.appaloosa.com for more information!
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 690,000 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 or 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.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Event Program Announced for USET Foundation Fundraiser
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.
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.
Friday, October 30, 2009
under-sharing
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
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
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Exclusive Couture ‘Derby Hats’ to be Offered in One-of-a-Kind Online Charity Auction Benefiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Facility
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
ADEQUAN JOINS FORCES WITH THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION AS THE “OFFICIAL JOINT THERAPY SPONSOR”
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
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
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-
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
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.
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.
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About Me
- Tess Logic
- I'm Tess the owner and founder of HorseSouth Magazine. The south's BEST horse publication. I am 38 years old. I am happily married to a wonderful guy. We have 3 beautiful children, 4 horses, 2 dogs and a very busy life. http://www.horsesouth.com