Jupiter, FL -December 17, 2014- Horse Radio Network’s once-a-month Para-Equestrian Show wrapped up the 2014 competition year with Sydney Collier and introduced Western Dressage with guest Ellen DiBella.

Lindsay McCall from the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) hosted the show with co-host and athlete Ellie Brimmer. To listen to episode #289, click here.

Sydney Collier and Wentworth. Photo (c) Lindsay Y. McCall

Sydney Collier was recently awarded the prestiguous 2014 FEI Against All Odds Award. She was also named the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year.

About Sydney Collier: At age seven Sydney was diagnosed with Wyburn-Mason Syndrome after she began having blurry vision. Wyburn-Mason Syndrome is a rare, congenital disorder characterized by arteriovenous malformations in the central nervous system and
retina. It affects only .14% of the world’s population and can cause brain hemorrhaging, stroke, paralysis, or death. She enjoys bringing awareness to the disabled community and the Paralympic Equestrian sport through public speaking, dedication, and her riding accomplishments.

In 2014 Collier earned a spot as a Grade Ib rider on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games U.S. Para-Dressage Team that competed in Normandy, France. She acheived strong scores on Victoria Dugan’s Willi Wesley, a 2000 Warmblood gelding. It was only four years prior at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky where Collier met Paralympian Jonathan Wentz who introduced and then mentored her on the Paralympic sport. Through her positive attitude and determination Collier has garnered numerous accolades aboard horses Willi Wesley; NTEC Cuplee, owned by Patricia Mendenhall; and her current competition partner Wentworth, formally owned by Amy McIlwham. Collier rides with Paralympic Dressage coach Wes Dunham of Woodstock Stables in Millbrook, NY.

Her athletic pursuits have been accompanied by multiple awards and scholarships including 2011 Para-Dressage demonstration rider at the Adequate FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, 2012 Think Alive Grant, 2013 USDF Youth Convention Scholarship, 2013 U.S. Para-Dressage Symposium invitation, 2013 Custom Saddlery Rising Star Award, 2013 Miss Jane Marple Memorial Trophy at Dressage for Kids, 2014 Michigan Virtual High School Chemistry Schloarship, 2013 and 2014 Jonathan Wentz Memorial Scholarship, 2014 Courtney’s Quest Scholarship, and the 2014 Women’s Sports Foundation Travel and Training Grant.

Between riding and maintaining her Honors student status at Skyline High School, Collier enjoys sharing her story and goals as a motivational speaker around the country. She not only speaks to groups and individuals in the equestrian world but she also enjoys speaks with groups with varied interests throughout the community including 4-H clubs.

Collier is an outstanding representative for the 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year Award. Hope Hand, Paralympian and President of the United States Para-Equestrian Association acknowledged, “This is an exciting achievement for Sydney. She has worked tirelessly as an athlete and student to achieve her goals. I have watched her grow as an individual over the past 5 years and her positive attitude and determination has been felt by everyone that has ever reached out to Sydney. She will humbly tell anyone that asks that she had the best mentor and advisor, the late Jonathan Wentz, who has guided her path to success. Jonathan was the driving force behind the Para-Dressage Junior and Young Rider Program, but it still takes a talented rider to carry on his mission to be the best in the world. I am so proud of Sydney.”

Hand continued, “On behalf of the Para-Equestrian discipline I would like to thank USEF for acknowledging this outstanding athlete.”

Collier is excited to look towards the future as she aims for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio De Janeiro. For more information about Sydney Collier please visit www.SydsParaQuest.com.

by British Dressage

December 17, 2014

Record breaking Olympia start for Dujardin

Despite a hectic few weeks of awards, media and a stinking cold, Charlotte Dujardin made a winning start at Olympia tonight in the Reem Acra FEI World Cup Grand Prix, supported by Horse and Hound. The stress didn’t show one bit, nor the fact that Carl Herster, Roly Luard and Ann Bar’s Valegro hasn’t been in an arena since WEG in August as the duo were in flying form for a seven percent victory and…setting a new world record in the process with 87.460%.

It was the same top three 12 months ago with Dutch duo Edward Gal and Danielle Heijkoop in second and third respectively. Riding Glock’s Undercover NOP, Edward broke the 80% barrier with 80.12% despite following Charlotte’s rapturous applause from the near capacity crowd. Danielle partnered Siro NOP for 77.1% with all five judges agreeing on her third spot.

Carl Hester once again showed his brilliance with Jane de la Mare and his own Nip Tuck as at just ten (the youngest in the field), he found the Olympia atmosphere all a bit much. But he settled and Carl was pleased to with his score of 74.68% for fourth.
Next best Brit was Nikki Crisp and the evergreen Pasoa in 14th with 68.22% and they qualify for tomorrow night’s freestyle. Hannah Biggs scored 63.46% with her stallion Weltzin for 17th and just behind was Daniel Watson on his Olympia debut with Susie Farnon’s Fideramber, just 0.02% adrift on 63.44%. A top 15 finish was needed to go ahead to the freestyle.

A beaming Charlotte said; “Sport Personality was a huge honour for me to represent the sport and getting it recognised. But to get up on that stage in front of 12,000 people was the most nerve wracking thing ever. So tonight was a complete breeze! I used tonight as a schooling round after the long break after WEG. I just wanted him to enjoy it. To break another world record is fantastic; I don’t generally go in there to break a record, it just happens! To ride a special horse like him that tries his hardest every time is incredible.”

Photo: © www.jonstroudmedia.com

Old Man Winter

There’s something special about the relationship you have with your senior horse, a partnership that’s endured years, tears, ups, and downs. You probably know your horse better than you know your best friend.

While he may seem like the same old horse, his needs may change as he ages. Even if your senior has weathered previous winters without trouble, these tips can help you ensure he’s getting the care he needs and deserves.

How Old is a Senior?

We’ve all heard the saying “you’re only as old as you feel.” Turns out it’s as true for our horses as it is for us. While some horses may be starting to slow down at 15, others are still fresh and frisky well into their 20s. No matter what your horse’s chronological age, if he’s starting to show signs of aging such as stiffness, difficulty maintaining weight, or decreased immune response, it’s time to start thinking of him as a senior.

Fortunately, senior horse care has advanced significantly in recent years. Just because your horse is getting older doesn’t mean you need to “put him out to pasture.” You can keep your golden oldie going strong with smart care and management, including the right supplements.

Dental Care

It’s important to monitor your senior’s teeth all year-round, but in winter it is especially critical. If he can’t chew properly, he’s not going to receive the full benefit of the feed you’re providing. That means wasted calories, wasted nutrients, and a horse whose diet isn’t meeting his needs.

Nutritional Needs

Speaking of diets, now is a great time to re-evaluate your horse’s program, ideally with the help of your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist. His nutritional needs may change as he ages, so a feeding program that worked five years ago might not meet his needs now. As with any horse, the basis of your senior’s diet should be high quality forage. Hindgut fermentation of long-stem forage is your horse’s primary heat source in the colder months, so a steady supply of quality hay is critical.

Hoof Health

Ground conditions change daily throughout the winter, from warm and wet to frozen solid. These fluctuations can wreak havoc on your horse’s hooves, so monitor his feet and work closely with your farrier to keep his toes in tip-top shape.

Skin & Coat Health

Senior horses’ tend to be more susceptible to skin infections and other problems caused by harsh winter conditions. Older horses also have a lowered ability to regulate their body temperature, and therefore may need additional blanketing and protection from the elements to keep them warm and cozy.

Joint Health

Years of traveling, training, and competing can really take a toll on your horse’s joints, but luckily there are steps you can take to help. A joint supplement tailored to the specific needs of your senior horse can help keep him comfortable. Look for ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and HA for joint tissue health and MSM, devil’s claw, and yucca to support a healthy inflammatory response and help keep him moving freely.

Weight Loss

Many senior horses may drop weight and lose muscle tone over the winter, so it’s important to monitor your horse’s body condition score. To make sure you have an accurate picture of his weight, remove his blanket regularly and work your fingers through his coat to feel the fat cover across his ribs, withers, behind his shoulder, over his back, and his tail head, in addition to his neck. If your senior is losing weight, talk to your veterinarian about possible causes. If everything checks out, consider adding a supplement with healthy fats and amino acids to support a healthy weight, as well as prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes for proper digestion. Want to learn more about body condition scoring? Visit SmartPak.com/BodyConditionQuiz

Immune Function

As they age, seniors’ immune function starts to lose efficiency and efficacy, which means your horse may be more prone to illness or slower to heal from injury. For these reasons, it is especially important to have your vet examine and vaccinate your senior once or twice annually, to help protect and keep him healthy. Additionally, having your vet out regularly allows him or her to keep a close eye on your horse and monitor for common senior conditions such as Cushing’s. You may also want to consider adding a supplement to maintain a healthy immune system. Look for antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and grape seed extract, which help support normal immune function.

Hydration

Many horses decrease their water intake during colder months, due to cold, icy water. But adequate water consumption is key to temperature regulation, many metabolic functions, and is also essential for proper digestion. Make sure your senior has 24/7 access to fresh, water that is unfrozen. Try hanging a heated bucket in your senior’s stall and consider adding salt to encourage him to drink.

Selecting Your Senior’s Supplements

Want help selecting supplements for your senior? Ask the Wizard! Just tell the SmartPak Supplement Wizard a bit about your horse and you’ll get a customized recommendation based on his or her individual needs. But don’t forget, it’s important to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your senior’s diet.

Conquer the Cold

Wintertime can be challenging for senior horses, but by giving your senior the right care and support, you can help ensure he has everything he needs to brave the cold weather.

About SmartPak

From the feed room to the tack room, SmartPak offers innovative solutions to help riders take great care of their horses. SmartPak was founded in 1999 with the introduction of the patented SmartPak supplement feeding system. The revolutionary, daily dose SmartPaks are custom-made for your horse, individually labeled and sealed for freshness. With the success of this simple and convenient feeding system, SmartPak has continued to expand its offering of quality products, including its own line of more than 55 supplement formulas called SmartSupplements, and a wide variety of tack, equipment, and supplies. The company has grown rapidly each year and is now the largest retailer of equestrian products in the United States. SmartPak’s success has been powered by a passion for delivering an unbeatable customer experience, and the company has been recognized with a Bizrate Circle of Excellence award as well as an “Elite” rating from STELLAService. A nine-time Inc. 500/5000 honoree, SmartPak is the only equine company ever named to the Inc. 500 list.

Emily Joyce, 774-773-1414 or EJoyce@SmartPak.com

The huge and constantly expanding knowledgebase underlying the world’s most highly regarded equine health mobile app – Horse Side Vet Guide – is now available for free at www.horsesidevetguide.com. User’s need only sign up at the website for full access to all the information contained in the app.

In late 2013, HSVG was first launched as a mobile app for horse owners and equine professionals. “HSVG was made to be used ‘horse-side’ – literally while you are standing there looking at your horse.” says Douglas Thal DVM DABVP, lifelong horseman, long-time equine veterinarian, and the creator of HSVG.

In just over a year, the HSVG app has been downloaded in over 45 countries. It has ranked as a Top 25 reference app in iTunes in 20 countries and has predominantly 5-star ratings on both the Apple iTunes app store and Google Play.

“We have received so much positive feedback from horse owners but also many requests to make HSVG’s information more accessible” says Dr. Thal. “With this in mind I am very excited to announce the launch of the free web-based version of HSVG.”

The website is optimized for laptop and desktop screens. However, the app remains the best resource for smartphones and tablets. Thal stresses: “HSVG was originally conceived as a mobile app and the app is still the best resource to have on hand without an Internet connection, especially for horse owners that use or ride their horses in remote areas.”

“Our goal from the beginning has been to put this information in as many horse people’s hands as possible, and this is an important step in that mission… It has been a massive effort, made with the singular goal of providing reliable, veterinary-created equine health information to horse people, for the benefit of the horse.”

The web-based knowledgebase and smartphone app are designed to help caretakers of horses (and other equines) make better equine health-care decisions. Dr. Thal created HSVG as an alternative to random Internet searching for information.

Horse people turn to the Internet more and more for information about equine health, often instead of communicating with a veterinarian,” said Thal. “Sometimes this works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Too often, this approach results in a delayed diagnosis, equine suffering, and ultimately increased cost to the horse owner.”

HSVG is a credible source of equine health information for horse owners – convenient and accessible – a quick and reliable alternative to randomly searching the web for information.

Both the HSVG app and new website offer uniquely accessible and useful horse health information based on an interlinked and ever-expanding matrix of horse health information. The system is centered on a list of almost 700 horse owner Observations, related to hundreds of conditions, diagnostics and treatments. It also includes 100+ horse owner skills, custom illustrations, how-to videos, and much more.

“We are delighted at the response that Horse Side Vet Guide has received to date,” Thal said. “The app is receiving rave reviews from equestrians and it is now also receiving the support of veterinarians who recognize its benefit in improving equine health care, and in increasing the quality of communication with their clients.”

Now this resource is free on the web. To learn more and sign up, click here

We are happy to provide you with images upon request, please email kristin@horsesidevetguide.com

By Jennifer Ward

Photographs Courtesy of Chris Von Martels

Chris Von Martels of Ridgetown, ON, and Zilverstar campaigned in Europe for six months, thanks in part to a $20,000 High Performance European Training and Competition Grant from the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP).

Wellington, Florida – Canadian dressage competitor Chris Von Martels recently returned to North America following six months of training and competing in The Netherlands. As a recipient of a $20,000 High Performance European Training and Competition Grant from the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP), Von Martels was able to apply the funding towards his training and competition expenses.

While in Europe, Von Martels and his two horses were based at the stables of Tim and Leida Collins in Riethoven, The Netherlands, which was a short drive to his trainer, Sjef Jannsen. He represented Canada in three International Equestrian Federation (FEI) sanctioned competitions in three different countries: CDI3* Compiegne, France, CDI2* Peterhof in Perl, Germany, and CDI3* Zandhoven, Belgium. In addition, he competed at a number of national shows and also showed a horse on behalf of one of his German-based clients at the Trakehner Championships, giving him great exposure to European breed championships.

With his top mount, Zilverstar, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Von Martels ended his European tour on a high note at CDI3* Zandhoven, placing fourth in the Intermediaire I and taking third in the Intermediaire Freestyle with a score of 71.85%. His second mount, Winsor Rox, an 11-year-old black Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by Barbara Nitsch, also gained valuable mileage during their time in Europe.

While Von Martels was already planning his six month stay in Europe before learning that he had successfully acquired one of five C-DAAP grants awarded in 2014, the additional funding allowed him to apply a larger amount of funds towards his training, as well as help off-set the costs of boarding, competition, and horse maintenance. Being the recipient of a C-DAAP grant has also strengthened his vision of his long-term goals, both personally as well as for Canadian dressage in general.

“My goal is to represent Canada at a major games and, in doing so, to help raise the profile of dressage in Canada,” said Von Martels, 32, who operates Von Martels Dressage Inc. in Ridgetown, ON, and Wellington, FL. “Being in Europe, where equestrian sport is much more mainstream than in North America, and being surrounded by the top performing horses and riders in the world, has been incredibly impactful in helping me to achieve these goals. The competitive environment and the quality of horses and riders plays on the physical and psychological components of performance. Having this experience has not only advanced my physical skills and the training of the horses, but it has us much better prepared for the pressures and the atmosphere of major international competitions.

“I am also bringing back a stronger vision for what I believe we can achieve for dressage in Canada, not just for riders and horses, but also for sponsors, owners, grooms and everyone who supports us,” continued Von Martels. “They have a tremendous infrastructure in Europe, and there are some great ideas and small details that would be easy for us to implement in order to enhance the overall development and support for the sport.”

Von Martels is especially appreciative of the C-DAAP program as it has not only augmented his own training and competition efforts, but also those of his fellow athletes who may one day be riding alongside him as members of the Canadian Dressage Team.

“Through the grant program, C-DAAP is giving Canadian dressage riders increased opportunity to gain the experience, training and exposure that is needed to help develop truly competitive horse-rider combinations,” said Von Martels. “If our national goal is to have improved team placings at major games, and to ultimately be on the podium at an Olympics or World Equestrian Games, then we need to be able to provide riders with access to the European environment, and to be amongst the best in the world on a regular basis.

“I would like to express sincere thanks to Deborah Kinzinger Miculinic for her vision, her commitment, and her passion in bringing C-DAAP to life,” concluded Von Martels. “I also need to thank the Collins family and their team for all of their support, and Barbara Nitsch for trusting me with her lovely stallion in Europe. There is a host of others that deserve great thanks and without whose support I would never have got this far; the farriers and vets that keep our horses in top form, my family, friends, and sponsors are all incredible, and all of my clients have been amazing and encouraging. However, at the top of my list, I give thanks to the horses. They are the most deserving of all!”

The four other Canadian athletes to receive C-DAAP High Performance European Training and Competition Grants in 2014 were Brittany Fraser of New Glasgow, NS, and All In, her nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding; Megan Lane of Loretto, ON, and Caravella, her 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare; Karen Pavicic of Surrey, BC, and Don Daiquiri, a 12-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by Pavicic and Jayne Essig; and Belinda Trussell of Stouffville, ON, and Anton, a 14-year-old German-bred gelding owned by Robyn Eames.

About the Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP)

The Canadian Dressage Athlete Assistance Program (C-DAAP) is a donor-driven program dedicated to supporting and advancing Canada’s junior, young rider and high performance riders. The program solicits contributions and will award grants to eligible Canadian dressage riders.

National Federation delegates attending the FEI General Assembly in Baku (AZE) had the opportunity to debate proposed revisions to the FEI Rules in an afternoon session today.

Discussions focused on proposed changes to the FEI Anti-Doping Rules for Human Athletes, the FEI Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations, FEI General Regulations, FEI Veterinary Regulations, the FEI Jumping Rules, the FEI Dressage Rules, and the FEI Rio 2016 Olympic Games Regulations.

There was healthy debate on a proposed modification to the FEI Dressage Rules requiring children, pony riders, juniors and young riders to wear protective headgear at the horse inspection. Following feedback from the German and Dutch Federations, the Chair of the Dressage Committee Frank Kemperman withdrew the proposal.

The National Federations have been actively involved in the rules revision process which began earlier this year. The first draft of the modified rules was sent to the National Federations for their feedback in early August. During today’s session, FEI member federations had the opportunity to make their final comments before they vote on the rule changes at the FEI General Assembly.

The FEI General Assembly 2014 takes place this Sunday, 14 December, starting at 09.00 AZT (local Azerbaijan time, GMT + 4 hours) and will be broadcast live on FEI TV.

Photo caption: A session on rules revision with National Federation delegates attending the FEI General Assembly 2014 took place this afternoon in Baku (AZE). Photo: FEI/Richard Julliart

Schleese Saddlery, long known as a significant player in the dressage saddle market and specializing in saddles made specifically for women, is proud to introduce the latest in its line of top quality dressage saddles – the Prelude!

“Prelude” is defined as being preliminary to an action, event, condition, or work of broader scope and higher importance. In the musical world it designates a piece that precedes a more important movement. This is the thinking behind the Prelude – it is an introductory dressage saddle to the Schleese line, incorporating many of the features and benefits of our higher-priced models in a readily affordable saddle – perfect for the adult amateur rider.

The 10 cm forward/centre balance soft, wide seat provides the rider complete support and comfort, while the standard narrow twist allows the rider’s leg to hang naturally straight. Accommodating the female anatomy, the extended stirrup bars and “Crotch Comfort” in our patented AdapTree® are made especially for a woman’s pelvis. The integrated ½-panel has an optional relief wedge or a high wedge panel, while the versatile adjustable v-webbing billet system allows for correct billet alignment and equal pull throughout the length of the tree (minimizing rocking or bridging issues with correct flocking).

The Prelude feels like it is already a well-loved and much used saddle with its extremely soft French-style leather in classic black or warm chocolate brown – no breaking in necessary! It is available in ½ sizes from 17 – 18”.

At only $3995.00 you can’t afford not to try it!

The Prelude: your horse will kiss you and you’ll kiss us for making it so great! Check it out at www.schleese.com/prelude.

About Schleese:
Jochen Schleese graduated from Passier as a Certified Master Saddler and came to Canada in 1986 to establish and register the trade of saddlery in North America, operating the only authorized saddlery training facility in Ontario. Schleese Saddlery Service is the world leading manufacturer of saddles designed for women, specializing in the unique anatomical requirements of female riders. Schleese authorized representatives provide diagnostic saddle fit analysis and saddle fitting services across North America to maintain optimal saddle fit to horse and rider. Saddlefit 4 Life educational programs and certification courses are held throughout North America, Europe and Brazil.

Saddles for Women Schleese 800-225-2242