Innholdsfortegnelse for 17-Nov-2016 i Horse & Hound

INVISIBLE equine suffering in the UK is “more common than you might expect”, World Horse Welfare’s deputy head of UK support Sam Chubbock warned. Ms Chubbock told of a group of neglected horses found by a charity field officers. “Picture yourself in the Home Counties, in a small village, with swimming pools and tennis courts, and groups of horses grazing. What could possibly be amiss?” she said. But neglected horses were found on a site nearby, in “run-down shelters, with no roofs, covered in muck and frightened”. “The horses would have been suffering for some time,” Ms Chubbock said. “No one playing golf nearby would have known they were there. “But this is a rare situation here in the UK - or is it?” Ms Chubbock told of shipping containers…

A High Court decision to award an estimated £3million to a teenager paralysed in a riding accident has left horse owners fearing the threat of legal action, writes Sarah Radford . Ashleigh Harris (pictured, right) was 14 when she broke her back falling from Polly Perks, an ex-racehorse owned by Rachel Miller, mother of her then boyfriend Keiren. Miss Harris was riding the newly bought horse in a field near Chepstow in September 2012 when the mare cantered, causing the girl to fall. In the High Court on 4 November, judge Graham Wood QC said Miss Harris was entitled to compensation as Mrs Miller had “encouraged” her to ride the “wilful” horse without properly assessing her ability. “In my judgment, it was reasonably foreseeable that the horse would be strong…

The FEI has opened a case against Irish showjumper Kevin Thornton, after his ride Flogas Sunset Cruise died at a show in France. • www.horseandhound.co.uk/ fei-case-kevin-thornton Cheltenham racecourse has refuted rumours the track was closed until January, following a story on a “fake news” website. • www.horseandhound.co.uk/ cheltenham-not-closed British Eventing has given the Wobbleberries challenge a boost, with free training passes for riders, and company supporter membership to the charity. • www.horseandhound.co.uk/ be-wobbleberries A charitable trust is to be set up for seriously injured jockey Freddy Tylicki (pictured), after donations from the public to a GoFundMe page topped £272,000. • www.horseandhound.co.uk/ charitable-trust-tylicki Redwings staff were ‘devastated’ when two ponies had to be put down after a fireworks display near the sanctuary. • www.horseandhound.co.uk/ redwings-fireworks-deaths Gentle giants of the equestrian world are in training for this year’s Clydesdale race at Exeter…

H&H’s summer show guide, celebrating the competition season, will go on sale on 23 February 2017. If you want your show, event or training clinic included, free of charge, please send the date, venue, town, county, secretary’s telephone number and details of disciplines — stating whether affiliated or not — to: Madeleine Silver, Horse & Hound, Pinehurst 2, Pinehurst Road, Farnborough Business Park, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7BF or email hhshowlistings@timeinc.com. Alternatively, upload your event to Equo, at www.equoevents.co.uk. The closing date is Wednesday, 4 January at 9am. The summer show guide, the biggest issue of H&H each year, is a must-have for competitors, packed with features as well as the ultimate show listings.…

A key figure in the showing world will be taking a step back next year to focus on her new grandchild, writes Rachael Turner . Essex-based producer and owner Lisha Leeman has sponsored major shows over the years, but is to cut the number of classes she supports, and the number of horses she owns, to spend more time with her family. Lisha’s daughter Janay is due to give birth next month (11 December). “It has been absolutely amazing but we just want to take a bit of a step back next year,” Kellythorpe Stud owner Lisha told H&H . “We’re first-time grandparents and we want to enjoy the baby. It’s a very special time and I don’t want to miss a thing. “We thought we’d take a bit of…

AN UNLUCKY SLIP Grey gelding Tenny lost his grip and fell into the Avon at Clifford Chambers on 6 November. Using a digger, steps were created to lead Tenny out of the river to safety. TAGG EQUESTRIAN The brand is to cease trading next month (December). The company, which sold its Loveson and Fal Pro divisions to Horseware in September, has put its remaining brands on the market. USAIN BOLT The Olympian narrowly missed being kicked at Oaks day (3 November). The star was quick to jump out the way of Eleonora’s reach at Flemington racecourse, Melbourne. A JOURNALIST Australian broadcaster Hamish McLachlan suffered six broken ribs, a collapsed lung and a broken shoulder in a fall. Hamish plans to ride again following recovery.…

CLINIC Ultimate Equine Events and Blair Wallace-Stocks will be hosting a train and compete showjumping clinic on 19 November at Brook Farm Training Centre in Essex. www.brookfarmtc.co.uk RACING Watch the Betfair Chase at Haydock Park, Merseyside, on 19 November. haydock.thejockeyclub.co.uk HORSE AGILITY Amanda Braham will host a horse agility event on 19 November at Shuttleworth Equine Centre, Beds. There will be training followed by a competition. www.bhs.org.uk CHARITY FAIR Redwings Horse Sanctuary guardian Deidre Bell will be holding a Christmas fair in aid of the charity in Hertford Heath village hall near Harlow on 20 November. www.redwings.org.uk TRAINING Eventer Lucy Jackson will be hosting a training session at Finchingfield Equestrian, Essex, on 19 November. www.equoevents.co.uk EXHIBITION The Horse in Art exhibition starts on 21 November at Palace House Mews in…

I’d like to share the story of a successful (if sad) horse loan story. After discovering I was pregnant, I looked into the hard decision of putting my beloved horse on loan. This was made more difficult due to horror stories from friends of horses going out on “companion” loan and being sold and horses coming back from loan homes in a terrible state. I’d owned Arnie for 13 years and this warmblood/thoroughbred coloured boy (with so much character and a huge fear of donkeys) needed more than to be stuck in a field. As he is 17hh, I thought I may struggle to find someone but my advert had 67 replies from as far afield as Aberdeen. My instinct made me choose Lucie Scopes and how lucky I have…

My most memorable win… I’m lucky to have a few. I won individual and team gold on my senior squad debut at the 2005 European Championships, individual gold and team silver at the World Equestrian Games in 2006 and team silver at the 2012 London Olympics (above). It’s hard to separate those and say one is the most memorable. My best warm-up tip… Make sure that you and your horse are physically and mentally warmed up. Ensure that the horse is prepared, but hasn’t gone over the top. Less is more at a competition — don’t overdo the jumping and galloping. My favourite place to eat out… In general I like low-key local pubs, but my favourite place to eat is Made By Bob (left) in Cirencester. My best tip…

‘Horses in pain compensate by chewing differently’ SOME experimental studies suggest that the TMJ does not suffer degenerative joint disease or arthritis in the same way as other joints. One study showed that even with an obviously swollen and inflamed jaw joint, most horses continued to eat reasonably well. Yet when a sophisticated kinematic motion-tracking system was used to map the changes in chewing patterns as horses with and without painful jaw joints ate long-stemmed hay, it was possible to see that the horses in pain compensated by chewing differently. If the joint was inflamed, they moved the affected joint differently or chewed on the opposite side of the mouth, or both. This is exactly what one might expect, but is not obvious to the casual observer. Of those horses…

GREEK HORSE NECKLACE A bronze horse pendant inspired by a Greek horse motif on a gold-plated chain. £24.99 www.british  museumshoponline.org SAMSHIELD SHADOWMATT HELMET A hat with five small crystals at the front and crystal fabric through the centre panel. £599 www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk CASUAL HOUND SCARF A great accessory to finish off an outfit, the design features hounds with the occasional sneaky fox. £36 www.marogers.com CONTEMPORARY PASTA BOWL A bone china pasta bowl, decorated with Cumbrian hills and Fell ponies. £21.95 www.fantasyfell.co.uk THE TOSCANA BIKER GILET Made from the finest quality Toscana sheepskin and cut to provide a flattering fit, finished with a biker style £295 www.hicksandbrown.com SLOANE JACKET Elegant continental styling and a sporty feel make this flattering shorter style jacket…

PETTURA SKIN & COAT A liquid supplement for dogs combining vitamins, essential fatty acids and fish oils for healthy skin and coat. £19.96 www.pettura.co.uk DOGISSIMO WINDSOR JACKET Tailored to fit pugs, Frenchies, Bostons and bulldogs. For the dog that loves to look and feel good. £54.95 (pug version) www.dogissimo.co.uk COTTAGE CRAFT MAGNETIC MITT Features 360º rotational magnetic massage balls to relieve stiff muscles plus a curry comb on reverse side. £4.25 www.horse-a-holic.co.uk STUBBS HAY ROLLER Designed to slow your horse’s forage intake and reduce boredom. Exceptionally durable material and can double up as a jumping block. £38.23 www.viovet.co.uk COMPANION DOG TREAT CRACKER Containing chicken and beef gravy bone treats which are suitable for any breed. £5.50 www.chelfordfarm  supplies.co.uk EASIDRI COOLING…

MOUNT! BY JILLY COOPER Bantam Press, RRP £20 ISBN: 978-0593072905 THE queen of the bonkbuster’s latest instalment from the fictional county of Rutshire plunges us into the glamorous — and cut-throat — world of Flat racing, with its usual smattering of romance, sex and scandal. Lothario Rupert Campbell-Black is back, this time as a silver fox in his 60s (but no better behaved), on a mission to make sure his stallion Love Rat is crowned leading sire. This is not one for the literary aficionados, but with pages that transport you to a world of rolling countryside, beautifully bred horses and equally beautiful people, Jilly Cooper has an ability to make you swiftly forget the monotony of everyday life. MS THE RACEHORSE WHO WOULDN’T GALLOP, BY…

HAVING met my fellow swapper John Knowles, from the Pytchley Hunt, and my mount, a former racehorse aptly named Imperative (aka Perry), we hacked the short distance to the meet, writes Pippa Grob MFH. The backdrop of Maidwell Hall prep school was sublime and pupils bustled about in pairs with salvers. They had obviously been suitably prepared to prevent any horse-butting antics, as while one stood alongside a horse, the other sensibly handed the glass of port to the rider — only one glass was broken during the course of the meet! As I was being kindly welcomed by both masters out, my attention drew immediately to hounds standing patiently by their huntsman, Daniel Cherriman, now in his fifth season there. Their whipper-in Paul Davis was a familiar face, having…

TESSA MULLINS, another busy working rider, secured the top spot in the BE100open. This was a first and last run of the season for the Bristol-based junior doctor, who was reunited with her winning ride, Onivada Bord (Neville), at the beginning of this year. “I produced him from a three-year-old to intermediate level, but when I didn’t have time to ride any more I sold him to a junior. It never really worked out and four years later he ended up coming back to me,” said Tessa, who keeps the now 13-year-old gelding with Melissa Evans — Dani Evans’ mother — on livery. “I usually ride around five times during the week between shifts. It hadn’t been my plan to event at all this year, but when I saw Aston…

• Townend tops rankings OLIVER TOWNEND has topped British Eventing’s rider points list for the third year in a row, scoring 2,373 points. Andrew Nicholson took second with 1,295 points, with Izzy Taylor a career-best third (1,239 points). • Under-21 registrations REGISTRATIONS are open for Britain’s pony, junior and young rider programmes for next year. More info: www.tinyurl.com/u21progs • New Swedish manager FREDRIK BERGENDORFF, a 1993 eventing European team gold medallist, is Sweden’s new eventing team performance manager. • Chappelhow wins in Cumbria CLARE CHAPPELHOW took two awards - the Robinson Udale Cumbria riders challenge trophy and the Maiden Marine owner of the year - at the first Cumbria horse trials awards ball, held on 29 October in Carlisle.…

EMMA HINDLE made a winning grand prix debut with her Vivaldi x Havidoff stallion Diesel VIII at Aintree EC, Merseyside (3 November), writes Jo Prestwich . Emma bought the eight-year-old last year having first ridden him as a three-year-old when she was based abroad. “I’ve been trying to buy him ever since and was finally in the right place at the right time,” said Emma, who combines riding and being a mother with running her late father’s business. “I have the weight of generations of business brilliance looking over my shoulder and the horses have to fit in. They get ridden at 5am or 6.30pm but they still excite me. This time last year Diesel only had a single change and there is so much more to come.” Kirsty Spencer…

THE future of Scottish showjumping looks rosy, after 18-year-old Graham Babes became one of the youngest winners of the Scottish Gentlemen’s Championship, producing a copybook performance on Patricia Fraser’s Boucheron. With a 12-fence track asking a variety of questions, only Douglas Duffin (Chento D) could join Graham in the jump-off. But, when the Fife-based rider faulted halfway around the 1.45m track, Graham only needed a double clear. He was spot-on to add his name to the coveted silverware with the 10-year-old gelding. “He was fourth in the Derby Show at Cavan, and I think that, and a few CSI2* shows recently, have benefited him no end,” said Graham, who admitted it was a gamble opting for a steady clear. “He’s been so consistent that I decided not to push him,…

FATE brought Headley Britannia and me together and she turned out to be the horse that made my career when I was in my 40s. Brit originally belonged to Emma Robson, who had broken and produced her, but when Emma gave up the sport Brit was sent to me to be sold. Three riders tried her, but no one liked her enough to buy her, and so I ended up riding her. We won on our first intermediate outing at Aldon, but I never dreamed then that she would go on to achieve what she did — victory at Burghley, Badminton and Kentucky. Of all the wins, it was the latter that was the sweetest. She flew around the second half of the cross-country course when well down on the…

THIS question was asked by World Horse Welfare officer Hannah Westen, whose aim was to shed light on welfare at slaughter. Joe, a 14.1hh grey gelding, was killed at a Belgian slaughterhouse on 21 November 2013. “How did a British pony get there?” Hannah asked. “We don’t know who bred him. Did they imagine where he would end up?” Hannah said Joe was passported as a six-year-old in 2005. Nine months later, he moved to another home. “In three years, he went through five owners,” she said. “What did he do wrong so no one wanted to keep him?” Joe could have had a problem, Hannah said, but in which case, what caused it, and why was he passed from home to home? “Why wasn’t he put down?” she asked.…

NINO DES BUISSONNETS Steve Guerdat’s London 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning ride is to be retired. The 15-year-old gelding will make a final appearance in the ring on his home turf, jumping in Geneva’s Rolex grand prix on Sunday, 11 December. SIMONSIG The 10-year-old suffered a fatal injury shortly after Sprinter Sacre was retired at Cheltenham. The fellow Nicky Henderson-trained gelding broke a hindleg at the third fence and was put down. The horse had won eight races from 13 starts. SHANNONDALE MARI This three-year-old was top lot at the Monart Sale of event horses in Ireland, selling for € 35,000 (£30,700) to Ryan Wood for Sarah Hughes. Full-brother Shannondale Percy is also owned by Sarah and ridden by Ryan. MINDING The three-year-old has been named Cartier horse of the year.…

SOMERSET charity the Racehorse Rehoming Centre has reviewed its trial policy as a direct result of the Harris v Miller court ruling. Manager Tessa Westlake said potential loaners will no longer be allowed to ride until they have been observed working horses from the ground, and had their skills thoroughly assessed. “People misrepresent or lie about their abilities and it can be very dangerous,” she said. “It’s a concern for anyone but we now feel it’s a problem for us particularly.” She added that the judge’s perception of the ex-racehorse in the case had seemed “unfair”. “It gives fuel to the stigma surrounding ex-racehorses,” she said. “The idea that all the horse knew was how to go flat out is nonsense. I’ve been up the gallops at Lambourn and watched…

INDUSTRY experts believe the growth of lower-level competitions run by equestrian sport’s affiliated bodies is not having a negative impact on riding club participant numbers, despite concerns from some organisers and members. An “exasperated” club secretary wrote on social media recently about a lack of competition entries, putting it down to the growth of classes such as British Eventing’s (BE) BE80(T) competitions, British Showjumping (BS) club classes and British Dressage’s (BD) Team Quest. “After a conversation with fellow committee members, is ‘dumbing down’ of affiliated events making riding clubs a less appealing prospect?” she asked. “I remember when our biannual horse trials was run over two days. Now we struggle to have 50 entries.” However, she added that she herself competed in affiliated classes. “It is now a more attractive…

NOMINATIONS are open for the 2017 Ceva Animal Welfare Awards, which will celebrate “the achievements of remarkable people from the farming, veterinary and charity industries”. “Outstanding contributors to animal welfare” can be put forward in categories including veterinary, charity, volunteering and farming. The winners will be decided by a panel of judges including Christopher Laurence MBE and RSPCA chief vet James Yeates, and announced at a ceremony on 5 April next year. Visit: www.cevawelfareawards.com…

A shorter maximum journey time for horses sent to slaughter and a review of the impact of VAT on equestrian businesses are among planned guidelines aimed at improving the welfare of European equines. MEP Julie Girling presented her proposals to the European Parliament last week (8 November). Her recommendations, which cover the 7m equines in Europe, also include targeting funding to farms committed to good welfare and a commitment by member states to inspect all slaughterhouses that are licensed to handle horses. “Action in this area is necessary and long overdue,” Mrs Girling said. “Horses for slaughter are being transported throughout the EU and to third countries, particularly Russia, in sometimes very poor conditions; the inspection of slaughterhouses and donkey farms is inconsistent and tourists have no way of knowing…

OWNERS whose horses have been taken to “green yards” after they have escaped on to the road have questioned the costs and procedures involved, writes Eleanor Jones . A Buckinghamshire woman was “shocked” to be charged £560 to get her three horses back on 31 October. The owner called police when she found out her horses had escaped. Officers said they had been taken to a green yard but could not say where. “I was so glad they weren’t injured, but it was annoying not being able to collect them,” she told H&H . “I had to go to a police station 25 miles away and pay £560 cash, which seems horrendous. “No one did anything wrong, but it was not ideal we couldn’t contact the people and no one…

IF you want to give your garden an equestrian feel, why not transform your vegetable patch by growing produce from hay bales? Plants can be bedded directly into the bales and as the season progresses, the straw or hay is broken down into soil that nourishes the plants. Using bales as planters reduces weed growth and means less watering or need for fertilisers. Bales also provide a raised bed, saving your back and protecting your plants from potential predators. “The system is impressive, especially with poor soil,” said Bunny Guinness, presenter of Gardeners’ Question Time. A note of warning though — keep hungry equines away from your new beds or they may suffer an untimely harvest.…

TRI-BLEND LOGO TEE A relaxed-fit T-shirt made of super-soft fabric that will make a great gift for a fashion-conscious horsey boy. £24 www.imperialcolt.com HYPERFORMANCE SOFTSHELL BREECHES Water repellent, windproof, breathable, dirt repellent and fleece lined for warmth. £62.50 www.ridingwearonline.co.uk WESTFIELD WELLINGTONS Textured wellingtons with a warm neoprene lining, and a steel shank for durability and support. £70 www.caldene.co.uk HARRIS TWEED WASHBAG Hand-crafted and durable, with a waxed cotton lining. Handmade in Scotland. £50 www.british  museumshoponline.org ALBERT THURSTON BRACES Featuring a red Fleur de Lys design, these are made by Albert Thurston, creators of braces since the 1820s. £65 www.gunnline.co.uk HIP FLASK Perfect for a tipple on a frosty winter morning. This handmade 6oz pewter hip flask from Sayers London is…

ALI BANNISTER PORTRAIT Commission a stunning portrait of a beloved animal in either pastel, charcoal or pencil. from £1,100 www.alibannister.com PEACHY PERSONALISED BELT Have your own personal message inscribed on the inside of this belt to ensure your gift is extra special. From £80 www.peachybelts.co.uk SOLARMATE ARENA LIGHT Solar lights that are easy to install and contain bright LEDs with three angles of adjustment. £229.95 per light www.solarshop.co.uk EXCLUSIVE VALEGRO PRINT Remember Rio with these exclusive A4 prints by Dianne Breeze. Printed on high-quality museum grade paper. £20 www.carlhester.co.uk MUJJO TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES These gloves don’t have to be removed to use a touchscreen. £29 ww.lombres.com MY HORSE BOX Receive a luxurious box full of equestrian products every month by purchasing…

ANIMAL HEALTH TRUST Animals at Christmas £3.99 for a pack of 15 plus £3.50 p&p www.ahtshop.co.uk  01638 555620 COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE Huntsman and Hounds in the Snow £5.99 inc p&p shop.countryside-alliance. org  0370 270 9011 THE SOCIETY FOR THE WELFARE OF HORSES AND PONIES Sebastian meets Father Christmas, £5 inc p&p www.swhp.co.uk  01600 750233 SPANA Feeding in the Fields £4 plus £2.95 p&p www.happyhooves.org  03303 322530 THE HORSE TRUST Rescue Residents £6 plus £3.50 p&p www.horsetrust.org.uk  01494 488464 THE BOB CHAMPION CANCER TRUST Flying Colours £8 inc p&p www.bobchampion.org.uk  020 7924 3553 RIDING FOR THE DISABLED ASSOCIATION Driving home for Christmas £4.75 plus £3.30 p&p www.rdashop.org.uk  01948 831084 BROOKE Snowy Horse £3.99 plus £3 p&p www.thebrookeshop.org  020 7470 9390 HEROS Charity Christmas card £10 inc p&p www.heroscharity.org  01488 638820…

BRITISH EVENTING LISTS Leading rider Oliver Townend Leading horse Diane Brunsden and Peter Cattell’s Leonidas II, ridden by Mark Todd Goldman Cup (under-21) Sam Ecroyd Fairfax Britannia League Sam Ecroyd’s Wodan III, ridden by the owner Calver Wealth Management Two-Star League Barbara and Nicholas Walkinshaw’s Billy Walk On, ridden by Pippa Funnell Gatehouse One-Star League Storm Straker’s Well Designed, ridden by the owner Foundation points rider Alex Postolowsky Foundation points horse Elena Scott-Forbes’ Goldwin, ridden by Vicky Tuffs Mitsubishi Motors Cup rider league Laura Greenhalgh Mitsubishi Motors Cup horse league Sarah Reeve’s Stanhopes Travelling Man, ridden by Laura Greenhalgh CURRENT WORLD RANKINGS LEADER Michael Jung (GER)…

SPRINTER SACRE’S retirement (pictured) - 12 months to the day after he signalled his comeback in last year’s Shloer Chase - was brought about by a minor tendon injury sustained in a gallop earlier in the week. It meant Nicky Henderson had to call time on a career that saw him win 14 of his 18 starts over fences, two Champion Chases and, at his peak, only deferring to Arkle and Flying Bolt in terms of ability. But it was his comeback last year, when he went through the season unbeaten after a two-year hiatus caused by a heart problem, that caught the imagination. His injury is so slight that it could only be detected on a scan but racing’s most charismatic horse of recent times bows out at the…

“WE must embrace the power of the individual” to help make invisible horses and suffering visible, the chief executive of World Horse Welfare believes. Roly Owers said “we all have the ability to make a difference”, as he addressed the conference (10 November). “When I look back at World Horse Welfare’s 90 years, it is clear we are here to help the ‘invisible horses’,” Mr Owers said. “These are hidden in barns or containers (as pictured, right), dumped, abused and neglected in their own homes. They are the horses effectively offered no protection by legislation or enforcement, unidentified, moved at night, packed in lorries, under the radar or as part of the regulated slaughter trade.” Mr Owers spoke of the plight of 100 million working horses in developing countries, and…

MAJOR decisions on the future of equestrian sport are to be made at the FEI general assembly in Tokyo this week (19-22 November). After years of discussion, the format for dressage, para dressage, showjumping and eventing at the Olympics and Paralympics are set to be voted on by national federations. The decisions are due to be made on the final morning of the conference, which will be shown live on FEI TV. The formats are being reviewed in order to bring them into line with the International Olympic Committee’s Agenda 2020 requirements to make horse sport more inclusive, popular and easier for the public to understand. FEI rules, anti-doping, veterinary matters, Rio 2016 and the forthcoming 2018 and 2022 World Equestrian Games, plus the 2018 Youth Olympics, are also on…

NINA CARBERRY Leading female jump jockey Nina is pregnant. “I am going to miss the rest of the season as I am delighted to announce that I am expecting my first baby,” she announced on Twitter last week (10 November). GRAEME COOKE The former FEI veterinary director will start his new position as the deputy chief veterinary officer for the United Kingdom at the end of January. “It is a privilege to support our farming and food industry,” he said. KERRY VARLEY The 32-year-old four-star British event rider is engaged to her partner Richard Allen. Lincolnshire-based Kerry completed Badminton Horse Trials for the fist time this year, riding her own 15-year-old gelding Bluestone Luke. AP MCCOY The 20-time champion jockey is joining ITV for some major fixtures when the channel…

RIDERS said any impact could be more about the running of riding clubs, which need to take more action. “I’ve been a member of my local club two years and I’ve done a few competitions; some great, some not,” said Emily Brodrick (pictured, above). “What has put me off is the same faces always on the teams, and a lack of communication and organisation of teams and competitions.” Hazel-Louise Harris added: “I’ve found riding club showjumping is so time-consuming. I’d rather do a BE80(T) and know roughly when the class will run, than wait seven hours for three classes at a riding club.” Some cited the governing bodies’ development pathways and training, adding that riding clubs cannot compete on this, while others spoke of less choice at riding club events,…

CANADIAN researchers are exploring the consequences of non-severe horse-related accidents in children. The aim of the study is to develop a better understanding of the types of accident juveniles commonly experience around equines. The researchers, from the psychology department at the University of Guelph, also plan to explore the impact of these accidents on the behaviour of parents and children around horses. “It is hoped that the findings will help to inform safety-related programmes for children and those who supervise them,” said a university spokesman.…

THE DONKEY SANCTUARY The organisation has been chosen as charity of the year for the Student Equine Veterinary Association (SEVA) of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. “We hope students will become passionate and knowledgeable about horse and donkey medicine,” said SEVA’s Sarah Tompkins. EX-RACEHORSES The British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre (BTRC) enjoyed a successful fundraiser at Aintree Racecourse for the BTRC Day (5 November), celebrating the charity’s 25th anniversary. The event raised more than £4,000. SHOWING GROOMS The groom of the year awards were presented at the Showing Council/Showing World awards dinner on 22 October. Jamie Punchard, groom for show producer Katy Carter, was named professional groom of the year, and Hilary Curtis received the amateur title. CHRISTOPHE LEMAIRE The French jockey rode eight winners in Tokyo on 6 November.…

THERE has been more positive news for native breeds as October’s New Forest and Welsh auctions reported price increases. Following a rise at the last remaining Dartmoor pony “drift” sale (news, 27 October), the Beaulieu Road sale (26 October) saw “firmer” prices on New Forest colts, while fillies’ average price rose from 270gns last year to 290. Iain Soutar of Southern Counties Auctioneers said that the year’s third and final New Forest auction had a “better feel” than previous years’ sales. “It was easier selling and nearly all sold,” he said. New Forest Livestock Society chairman Lucinda Lang said the annual pre-foal show, on the sale morning, also helped showcase available lots. “The show was a huge success and registered fillies are in demand, which has seen a good price…

THE HORSE KNOWS BEST Sir — The letter by David Morgan-Davies regarding making that dreaded decision about when to put down your best friend (“Ponies with opinions”, 3 November) made me smile, despite the subject. I bought my first horse, part-bred Irish something-or-other, when I was 40 and he was being sold as a 12-year-old. However, the vet said the horse was more like 16 and failed him on 2/10ths lameness. I went ahead with the purchase anyway because I didn’t know any better and because I’d already fallen in love. Fast forward to today, I am 61 and “Limo” is still around — you do the maths! We hunted twice a week for many years, evented up to pre-novice and went everywhere together until his back proved to be…

GIVEN the horror stories you hear of horses going out on loan, never to be seen again or to be returned in a less than fit state, it’s heartening to read Jacqueline Haley’s letter of the week detailing her positive experience. Being in a similar situation — expecting my second child in February — I’ve opted not to endeavour to find a loan home for my horse because my concerns, rightly or wrongly, outweigh the obvious benefits. Much as I’d love this mare to have an active year, she’s perfectly happy in the field not having to apply herself and less likely — I say in hope — to incur injury there. Following the news last week that a rider has been awarded £3m after suffering life-changing injuries in a…

Lungeing benefits • Lungeing allows you to see the horse without a rider, and him the chance to move his body freely. • I use side-reins so they aren’t simply galloping around with their noses stuck out. Quiet time • I like to have half an hour to myself before my test to focus on what I need to do in certain places in the test for that particular horse. • I also like to look at the arena and work out any potential spooky spots so I can be prepared. Eating on the go • At shows I’m too busy to eat big meals, so in the morning I’ll have a good breakfast such as scrambled eggs and spinach on toast, and then top up throughout the day with…

ARMADA and Nereo will forever be known as two of the most successful full brothers to have evented in Britain. Both bred by Ramon Beca in Spain, they are by the thoroughbred Fines, a successful racehorse, out of a mare called Berganza, who is by the Hanoverian Golf I. Andrew Nicholson brought Armada, now 17, over from Spain as a four-year-old, and later sold him to Paul Ridgeon. Nereo, now 16, arrived in the UK as a three-year-old and was sold to Deborah Sellar. Andrew competed the brilliant, flamboyant pair of chestnuts until the end of 2011, when he suggested that the ride on Armada should go to his friend Oliver Townend. Andrew had already completed eight CCI4*s on the horse and finished in the top four at three CCI3*s,…

THE PONY CLUB BLUE SPARKLY MUGS Unbreakable plastic Pony Club sparkly mugs. Dishwasher and microwave safe, great for the yard or home. £3 shop.pcuk.org TOTTIE OLIVIA WATER BOTTLE Let everyone know that cantering is cardio with this bottle. Comes with a secure close lid and cobalt colouring. £9.99 www.tottie.co.uk USB STICK Available in pink or white, this 8GB horsey USB stick will give an equine feel to any office work and comes gift-boxed. £9.95 www.bransbyhorses.co.uk NETTEX TASTYLYX THREE-PACK SET Delicious, natural flavoured treats that can be used in most standard lick holders. £8.45 www.hopevalley  saddlery.co.uk EURO-STAR BAY BEANIE Fashionable beanie in cable stitch pattern with fake fur bobble. Great stocking filler for anyone as one size fits all. £16.57 www.amazon.co.uk…

HORSE DUVET SET, SINGLE The perfect gift to give on Christmas Eve to get your kids to jump into bed, a great horse-print duvet set. £20 www.ponymaloney.com JOULES GIRLS GEEGEE INTARSIA JUMPER HORSE This characterful, super-soft jumper is perfect for keeping pony-mad little girls warm. From £34.95 www.joules.com CHAMPION JUNIOR X-AIR STAR PLUS With crystal embellishment and ventilated airflow system, this comfortable hat meets all safety standards. £94.99; www. robinsonsequestrian.com YR8 SPARKLY Add some sparkle to riding with this hat, which features an adjustable nylon harness and four discreet ventilation holes. £89 www.rideaway.co.uk WILDKIN HORSE DREAMS BACKPACK AND LUNCH BAG Ideal for school; the backpack comes complete with a fully insulated lunch bag. £29.95 www.thehorsediva.co.uk SOFTIE FLEECE Cute…

GLANCE at the feet of the best-dressed women at any equestrian event and you’ll likely see that they are wearing Dubarry, a premium lifestyle brand chosen by those who appreciate top quality products and design. Most recognisable is the iconic Galway boot, a leather GORE-TEX® lined boot that is as attractive as it is hardwearing. This delightful combination of style and performance ensures that the Dubarry footwear and clothing collection is superbly suitable for country and city life. Such impressive versatility is down to the luxurious fabrics and cutting-edge technology incorporated into Dubarry’s designs. It is why, from modest beginnings in 1937, the brand is now firmly established in the wardrobes of equestrians internationally. Discover a superb selection of wonderfully smart mens and women’s outerwear with PrimaLoft® filler (a super…

O LIVER TOWNEND became the first British rider to win at the Australian International Three Day Event at Adelaide when he took the CIC3* (3-6 November). “I’ve been working with [Australian rider] Tim Boland for the past decade quietly selling horses to Australia and vice versa,” said Oliver. “He wanted to set up something more structured in terms of sending a small number of horses over to Australia to sell every year and said I should go and see what it’s like. But he knew I’d need an incentive and said he’d get me a ride in the CIC3*.” Tim is based about an hour south of Sydney and Oliver spent a week in the city before the event, having “great fun doing the tourist bit”. Oliver’s ride was Napoleon…

RIDING at four-star often means more to an eventer than championships and can be more realistic than the elusive senior team cap. Similarly, a one-horse rider may dream of moving from BE100 to novice. So when and how do we decide to step up? After a CCI3* you often see people write on social media: “Delighted! We’ve qualified for a CCI4*!” That’s an achievement in itself, but does it mean you’re ready for four-star? Experience is invaluable, but how do you get it if you don’t put your training to the test? Learning from mistakes is all very well, but in eventing, safety is a huge factor — what if a mistake ends up costing a life? Growing up based near Badminton, my dream was to compete there as soon…

BRITISH pony European dressage teams have been consistently successful since the 1990s, winning nine medals between 1997 and 2005 under team trainer Ian Woodhead. With Peter Storr at the helm between 2007 and 2016, our pony riders have achieved five team and several individual medals. The lack of conversion of those successes into junior or young rider medals is therefore disappointing. Junior bronze in 1998 and young rider bronze in 2004 and 2005 are modest and the presence of Maria Eilberg and Laura Tomlinson (née Bechtolsheimer) in the latter teams is an indication that successful medal winners at senior team level had already showed such promise as under-21s. Why are we not able to achieve more junior and young rider medals? A consideration must be that horses are not “big…

THE team had a top weekend, as we won the Grade Three Greatwood Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham with North Hill Harvey. He was ridden by my brother Harry, and just got up by half a length to beat Paul Nicholls’ Modus. We were hopeful, but we weren’t expecting it, so we were thrilled. It’s funny really as we were aiming the horse at the Elite Hurdle at Wincanton on 5 November, but the ground was too firm. I was like a petulant child that day as I was so frustrated that we couldn’t run him, but it all worked out for the best. Meet The Legend was due to run in the race at Cheltenham on Sunday, but he had a dirty nose, so we went with North Hill Harvey.…