Innholdsfortegnelse for 02-Mar-2017 i Horse & Hound

THOUSANDS of riders have supported a call for bridleways to be created in town planning and new developments. The campaign was launched by Kent-based yard manager Claudine Russell, who was concerned by the growing levels of traffic on country roads. More than 5,300 riders have signed the petition to the secretary of state for transport. “The lanes have got so much busier and with new houses being built it’s getting worse,” Ms Russell told H&H. “People fly down them at 60mph. They aren’t quiet country lanes any more. ”Often footpaths are created for the community but they never think of bridleways — non-riders could use them too.” Ms Russell added horse-related accidents could be avoided if riders had more off-road routes. She was involved in an incident when her former…

THE equestrian industry contributes £1bn more to the UK economy than it did two years ago according to figures, writes Lucy Elder. The British Horse Industry Confederation has released its 2017 midterm manifesto, which highlights the support the equine industry needs. It was first put together ahead of the 2015 general election. Since then, the estimated contribution to the UK economy from the horse industry has risen from £7bn to £8bn. The gross output has also risen from £3.8bn to £4.3bn. “This increase has come from across the board from racing, breeding, trade and equestrian activities,” Jeanette Allen, chair of the Equine Sector Council steering group, told H&H. “This is why it’s so great all corners of our world have come together to work on this.” The steering group, whose…

PEDER FREDRICSON The showjumper won achievement of the year at the Swedish Riders’ Gala on 22 February, in recognition of his Rio Olympics individual silver medal. FREDDY TYLICKI The jockey who was paralysed in a fall was given a standing ovation at the Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards. He has also since been back on a horse. LAURENCE PEARMAN Mr Pearman was given a fellowship at the Society of Master Saddlers’ national saddlery competition. He served as president of the society twice. CAROLYNE CROWE The vet will run 10 marathons in 10 days for equine charity Brooke. Fellow vet Brian Faulkner is also running the distance, with London the last marathon. LIZZIE KELLY Lizzie is set to be the first female jockey in the Cheltenham Gold Cup (17 March)…

EQUESTRIAN clubs and groups have the opportunity to apply to Sport England’s new community asset fund. The body is inviting applications for funding, which could be used to improve or protect facilities that support communities’ needs, or invest in places that meet those needs. Those eligible include community interest companies, clubs and trusts. A British Equestrian Federation spokesman said: “There are a number of funding opportunities available and if you have a great project that you think should be recognised then we would urge you to apply.” • Visit sportengland.org/funding…

GEORGE SMITH MR SMITH died peacefully on 5 February, aged 88. He spent 23 years volunteering for Aldon Park, home of Aldon Park Horse Trials, building jumps and maintaining ground. A spokesman for Aldon Eventing said “nothing was ever too much” for him. TIM FINCH MR FINCH died on 16 February aged 82. He commentated at British Eventing (BE) fixtures in the north and Scotland for decades, and in 2016 received a BE award for 50 years of service to the sport. Cumbria Horse Trials’ Douglas Weymouth said his “wonderful voice and great character will be missed”. BARBARA THOMSON PHOTOGRAPHER Mrs Thompson (pictured, right) died aged 75 on 21 February. Mrs Thompson photographed almost every Olympics and World Equestrian Games over the past 30 years. As well championships, she covered…

‘The current voluntary approach does not deliver’MP Liz Saville Roberts WORLD HORSE WELFARE will “continue to push for” CCTV in all slaughterhouses, after the government responded to its appeal, writes Rachael Turner. The charity launched its campaign after a survey indicated that almost three-quarters of owners would not be confident that horses’ welfare would be protected throughout the slaughter process. Almost 10,500 people signed a petition to the government calling for the change. A Defra spokesman said the government’s farm animal welfare committee (FAWC) carried out an independent assessment of recording devices in slaughterhouses in 2015. “This concluded that CCTV can offer real benefits, but that it cannot replace the need for businesses to have proper monitoring procedures in place,” the Defra spokesman said. “The FAWC recommended that, in order…

I was pleased to see that you gave Retraining of Racehorses an opportunity to explain their fees (letter, 16 February). Equestrians must not just “use it or lose it”, but “pay for it or lose it”. We have just lost the London Spring International show for financial reasons, point-to-points struggle with too many people trying to get in for free, hackers sneak on to toll rides without paying and riders do not pay Forestry Commission fees. On an annual budget for a horse, with shoeing, bedding and training, all such extras are actually very small. These organisations are for the benefit of all, and we all lose out if they are not financially viable. That said, I do have concerns that in organisations where administration and databases are a key…

My secret weapon is... Books! Especially The Golfer’s Mind (by Dr Bob Rotella). McLain Ward told me about it; even though it’s about golf, it relates to keeping your head in the right place. I’m into the psychology of riding; when people are going well they tend to have a string of good results because they believe in themselves. My most memorable win… The grand prix in Dublin in 2000 on Ballaseyr Twilight. It’s always a childhood dream for an Irish rider to win at Dublin. My whole family was there, and we drove out to my home that night and I was partying with everyone, still in my riding gear. It was very special. The best event after-party… It has to be at Glock Horse Performance Center, Austria. It’s…

EMBRYO TRANSFER (ET) has proved a useful solution for competition horses too busy for a career break. Lucinda Fredericks’ mare Headley Britannia was perhaps the ultimate working mum, producing seven ET foals throughout her teens. The procedure also enables older, sub-fertile mares to donate embryos to reproductively healthy recipients and so be spared the process of carrying and delivering a foal. The recipient mare’s age can vary (between four and 15 years old) as long as they are proven to be good breeders and have a reproductively sound uterus capable of supporting an embryo. Embryo recovery rates as high as 75% can be achieved in healthy, young donor mares — and remain around 54% with older donors of 13-25 years. But early embryonic loss is still significant, so obtain a…

ONE of the outstanding amateur huntsmen and hound breeders of the post-war years, Dermot Kelly (pictured, above), died aged 81 on 19 January. He achieved remarkable sport, and bred a fine pack of hounds as sole master and then joint-master of the Meynell from 1962, continuing in office with the amalgamated Meynell and South Staffs until 1975. Dermot was brought up in Leicestershire at the family home, Leesthorpe Hall, where he hunted with the Cottesmore and learned many of his hunting skills from his hero, Col Cyril Heber Percy. During service with the 9th Lancers, Dermot whipped-in to the Hon Colin MacAndrew, master and huntsman of the Zetland. On leaving the army, Dermot took on the challenge of hunting the Meynell, one of the best grass countries in Britain, strongly…

WELLINGTON has exciting plans for the future. A 100x80m waxed surface arena will be completed in time for the Premier League show in June. Other plans include an equine therapy centre and gym, pilates studio and treatment centre for riders. There are also plans for a new road so traffic will not have to exit onto the busy A33. YOU don’t expect to meet prospective owners in your local convenience store, but that is what happened to Nicola Buchanan (below), rider for the St Giles Stud. “Nicola came in in her riding gear. At the time I was looking for a trainer and asked if she was a dressage rider. Of course she is and that’s where our partnership started,” recalled Dinah, Countess of Shaftesbury.…

‘I had a great Valentine’s Day out with my horse and dog!’Amy Woodhead, PSG winner with Branduardi A Valentine's Day treat for Amy Woodhead was taking her new ride Branduardi to Manor Grange Stud, West Yorks (14 and 18 February), and bagging the prix st georges (PSG) on their first competitive outing together, reports Helen Scott. The pair repeated the process on the Saturday, making it two out of two. Amy has just returned home after three years working for Carl Hester. She has been given the ride on the Breitling W 11-year-old by Victoria Wright, wife of event rider Matthew, and her father Sir John Peace. Both Victoria and Matthew have competed the stallion lightly in the past. “It was a very hard decision to leave Carl’s, but having…

‘Lame and broken down I may be, but I got no sympathy’ A career with horses is on many a young person’s wish list. But as what, exactly — rider, trainer, groom? Finding the right niche and making a living is a puzzle I’ve spent a lifetime working out. Some school leavers who love horses imagine the bling, the top shows, glamorous riders and sponsors’ parties… The reality for most is hard work, mud, rain, cold and endless mucking out for a pittance. And there’s scant hope of a £50k salary unless a good competition career materialises, a BHSI is gained and probably a UKCC (UK Coaching Certificate) level 3 too — all of which takes years to achieve. Apprenticeships don’t always lead to the right qualifications. Much as I…

IT takes some guts, if you are a journeyman jockey who is not riding winners on a daily basis, to sit motionless upsides two rivals going down to the last in a £100,000 race. James Best did just that — cajoling Pilgrims Bay into winning the BetBright Chase at Kempton Park on Saturday. Winners have come aplenty for his trainer Neil Mulholland this season. Indeed, this was his 91st as he closes in on his first century, but it was only Best’s 20th of the campaign. However he produced the seven-year-old — who has a reputation as a bit of a character — with some aplomb to win by half a length from Double Shuffle, who blundered away his winning chance at the third last. “Pilgrims Bay is very much…

A loose horse coming backwards up the course was the only thing that momentarily distracted the crowd from the battle that was going on between Hunters Pres (Laura Scott), Faraway Star (Ryan Withey) and Samuel Jackson (Sean Houlihan) in the home run of the maiden conditions race. Hunters Pres lost his fight by falling at the last and Faraway Star lost his to lack of stamina, leaving Samuel Jackson to give his jockey his third win of the day. “We didn’t get a good start,” said trainer Richard Mitford-Slade, who saddled two winners in total. “He was green but he learned something from every part of the race and grew in confidence.” Ten runners started in the opening conditions race, but numbers soon diminished when Too Late To Sell (Phil…

‘I cannot see their production ever being equalled in my lifetime — they were magicians of their craft’ IF the Gilbert-Scott sisters had a good pony they could turn it into a champion; if they had a better one they would turn it into a superstar. I first became aware of how good they were when they stood reserve champions with Coed Coch Puff (pictured) at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 1972 to my brother Nigel’s Snailwell Charles. The following year, when Charlie won his 13.2hh class again, Carol and Simone landed another 12.2hh victory with Firby Fleur De Lys and took the championship with their 14.2hh Lennel Aurora. Their ponies were always willing to please, going in a correct and relaxed manner for their stylish jockeys. The…

FOR a breeding feature, you’ll notice that the voice of Fürstenball’s own breeder, Georg Sieverding, is conspicuously absent. In late summer of 2016, Georg took his mare Magic Moon S, who comes from the esteemed dam-line of Fürstenball, to the national mare show in Rastede where she was the reserve champion — a major accolade. However, when he returned from the show he had an accident turning the excited mare out in the field, in which she kicked him in the head. He is still recuperating, and we wish him a speedy recovery. His son, Martin, takes up the Fürstenball story. “My father only ever bought two mares in his life, in the 60s,” he explains. “One was brown and one was grey, and it is the brown line, which…

An old-fashioned start ONE of the stud’s foundation mares was the home-bred Bonnie, by a Cleveland Bay stallion and out of a thoroughbred mare. Mary says: “Today that breeding would probably be classed as old-fashioned but she produced three grade A, two grade B showjumpers and a four-star eventer. She was posthumously given a British Horse Foundation award for her progeny in 1997 and 1998.”…

THE first two stallions bought for the Catherston Stud in 1949 were Welsh Mountain ponies and, seven decades on, one of the stud’s smallest stallions is the 12.2hh quality Littledale Bright Star. The stallion was awarded Sports Pony Studbook Society elite status in 2015 after his son, Catherston Bit Of Gold, competed at the Keysoe CSI2*. His sire, Catherston Nightsafe, was a popular stallion in Germany where he was leased for two years and he sired top event pony Catherston Nutsafe, who represented Great Britain in five European Championships. Littledale Bright Star’s great grandfather was the 13.1hh Palomino, Bubbly, a prolific and successful sire for Catherston in the 1960s. Opposition Bombshell, son of the event sire Fleetwater Opposition, is available for natural covering or AI. Two late sons of Dutch…

“THERE are opportunities for us to learn from other sports,” said the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) chief executive, on appointing its first director who is not from an equestrian background. Gordon Burton, a UK Sport performance advisor, is to take over as performance director for the World Class programme. Mr Burton has worked in elite sport, including equestrian and para-dressage, for 17 years and brings a “wealth of experience”. BEF chief executive Clare Salmon said: “I am delighted to welcome Gordon as we embark on our journey to Tokyo. “We recognise there are lots of opportunities for us to learn from other elite sports. ” The news comes as the World Class programme undergoes an “ambitious strategic change”. “My time at UK Sport has afforded me the opportunity to see…

TRIOLO D’ALENE The racehorse has suffered a “nasty fracture” at Kempton Park (25 February). According to trainer Nicky Henderson, following veterinary treatment he “will hopefully enjoy a long and happy retirement”. MAX Kyra Kyrklund’s grand prix horse was put down on 24 February due to bone cancer. The 22-year-old by Master represented Finland at European and world championships, as well as the 2008 Olympic Games where they were placed sixth individually. FLEMENSHILL The four-year-old Oldtown Maiden winner sold for £480,000 at the Cheltenham January sale. This was the highest price ever recorded for a point-to-point horse. The Flemensfirth gelding was bought for Alan and Ann Potts. CHARISMATIC The dual Classic-winning stallion and 1999 horse of the year died on 19 February due to a haemorrhage caused by a broken pelvis.…

A non-voting independent chairman has been appointed to lead the British Eventing (BE) senior selection panel. Dan Hunt joins from his role as performance director of British Ski and Snowboard and will ensure correct selection protocol is followed. He has also previously held positions with the Premier League and British Cycling. Also joining the selection panel is BE master coach Gillian Watson, former four-star eventer Jeanette Brakewell, coach and former four-star eventer Sarah Bullen as well as Nigel Taylor in his role as BE’s international director. BE chief executive David Holmes said the structure has been used successfully in several other sports, including British Triathlon. Clare Salmon, chief executive of the British Equestrian Federation, added: “It is fantastic to see the strength and depth of expertise coming forward to the…

A new code of conduct for syndicates will “promote transparency” and protect syndicate members, the British Horseracing Authority hopes. The code, created in response to the growth of joint ownership, highlights requirements all syndicates will need to meet, including an agreement detailing duration and costs of the scheme. All members will also have to be registered owners, to ensure they are subject to the rules of racing. “The code will be incorporated into the rules when the modernised registration structures are introduced in spring,” said a BHA spokesman. “These structures, part of reforms to simplify administration of ownership, will reduce the number of ownership types and accommodate the registration of syndicates.”…

AVIAN RACEGOERS National Hunt hero AP McCoy is to be honoured with a life-size bronze statue at Cheltenham. Ever self-deprecating, the former jockey pointed out: “I guess it will give the birds somewhere to sit.” ALBERT AND ERNIE Trainer Emma Massingale’s two Shetlands starred on The One Show as they toured their breed's native islands. The pair coped with travelling by boat, and even wearing made-to-measure hand-knitted Fair Isle jumpers, complete with sleeves. Any Shetlands we’ve known would have ripped them off, chewed them up and done a runner; but maybe that’s just ours… VETS A client was heard to scoff slightly at her practice’s new “refer a friend” bonus deal. Should you introduce a pal, and spend at least £50, you both get, wait for it, £10 off. Each.…

TIRELESS and dedicated, the RSPCA once more dashed to the rescue after members of the public reported a distressing sight on Valentine’s Day. Calls were made to the charity’s cruelty line about a horse being driven on the motorway, tied by the legs to a flat-bed trailer. But when RSPCA inspector Richard Lythgoe arrived at the scene of the crime he found it wasn’t a crime, but a plastic horse, bought in Birmingham and driven to Cambridge — as you do. “We get lots of calls about horses, but I have never been called to check a fake one before!” Mr Lythgoe said. At least it was rugged up for the journey, although there wasn’t a haynet or a travel boot in sight……

EVENTING SPECIAL • Exclusive Mark Todd interview • Why young riders aren’t winning any more • Which new nations will field teams in Tokyo • First report of the season from Isleham CHELTENHAM PREVIEW Nigel Twiston-Davies and Harry Fry on their Festival hopes DRESSAGE Masterclass with Ruth Edge and Summerhouse regionals SHOWING Horse hero with Connemara Castle Emperor HUNTING All about the Ward Union, plus some of the greatest hunts in history SHOWJUMPING Doha, Bishop Burton Development Classic and Arena UK Pony Premier COLUMNISTS Mark Phillips, Anna Ross, William Funnell and Andrew Sallis…

‘Eighty percent of riders are not on the centre line when they start their test’FEI judge Anne-Marie Taylor AT all levels of eventing, a good dressage score is crucial to success and a handful of marks can make the difference between the final placings. Every single mark counts, so you don’t want to give any away carelessly. A significant area of weakness is riding accurately. Performing movements at the required markers, while seemingly such a simple task, is many competitors’ downfall. “Often riders don’t ride the test in an accurate way, therefore the movements aren’t happening at the markers; riders are not riding their corners or on a straight line, so they will lose marks,” says British eventing team dressage coach Tracie Robinson. Former grand prix dressage rider and advanced…

HENRY III (1207-1272) addressed a Royal Mandate to Richard de Montfichet, chief forester in the county of Essex, which commanded him to “let the Reverend and Pious Ladye Mabel de Boxham, Abbess of Barking, have her dogs and chase hares and foxes”. Women have excelled in this sport; many eminent men from the hunting world have not held back in their commendations. Dalesman, the great hunting man and scribe, once said: “Although I have seen many women hunting hounds, and also whipping-in, I do not recollect ever seeing any of them doing either badly, which cannot truthfully be said about us men, for we have all seen sorry mugs make a mess of it.”…

JOANNA THURMANBAKER and Highcliffe Apollo continued their run of good form, with a mature and poised freestyle earning them the top spot in a competitive prix st georges (PSG) field. A score of 72.08% secured the ticket to Hartpury, edging out Nathalie Kayal and DHI Bravo with 71.67%. Joanna, 19, has partnered the 15-year-old Hanoverian by Der Lenz for nine years. To an original composition by Thomas Farnon, this elegant pair danced their way through an intricate, mistake-free floorplan. This gelding isn’t the biggest mover, but stands out for his balance and correctness, with smooth pirouettes and changes so secure he could be on autopilot. “Apollo’s really come into his own this year,” said Joanna, a member of the World Class podium potential squad. “He is built downhill, not like…

AMY PICKARD was amazed to win the prelim with Hokey Catoki (pictured, right), scoring 71.79%. Amy bought the unbacked four-year-old (Catoki x Coriander) gelding last summer and joined British Dressage in September. “I wasn’t looking for a horse but liked the look of him,” explained Amy, who works for Katherine Heslop from KW Equestrian. “He’s very laid-back and was easy to break.” With Katherine competing horses at their nearest regionals at Bishop Burton the previous weekend, the decision was made to travel north to Morris EC. “We came up for a mini holiday and he was super chilled on his first overnight trip from home,” said Amy. “He came against me slightly in the arena when near the roller door but it made me ride more strongly. “I watched my…

EMMA HUNT and her “plain old cob” Teddy Bear made their elementary debut at Brook Farm, winning the bronze section on 70.52%. “Having never ridden either test before I would’ve been happy with high 50s, so was elated at the score. ‘Freddy’ was attentive and enjoyed the challenge of being asked new things. He can be a little spooky but because he had to think, he gave me an amazing ride,” said Emma of the 11-year-old cob who enjoys a Jammie Dodger as a treat and sports a trademark moustache. “2016 was tough because of my nan’s health, and Freddy was what kept me going, so it was even more special that we managed to get my nan there to watch. When I started out I never believed that we…

SEALING a sensational week, Ireland’s Bertram Allen landed the grand prix with Dino W. The pair were a second faster than the remaining two double clears in an eight-rider jump-off to collect the € 16,275 (£13,900) top prize, adding to his substantial haul of win and place prize money from the show. “It’s a decent-sized ring and he’s a big horse with a rangy stride so I just gave him a good blast,” said Bertram, who heads to the CSI5* in Doha this weekend. “We’ve had him since a five-year-old and he’s a well-natured stallion but this was his first three-star grand prix and he stepped up very nicely; I’m very excited by him. “The tour was a good kick start to this year’s campaign. I was only there for…

Back from a thumping fall CLUB members’ conditions winner Golden Hoof (pictured, right) was winded in a thumping fall last time out at at Milborne St Andrew (5 February) and he lay on the floor for some time before climbing to his feet. The nine-year-old scored at Badbury Rings under Will Biddick just three weeks after that fall. “I was very surprised he wasn’t sore the next day,” said trainer Jack Barber. “Some horses would have been really affected by what happened. We schooled him over a few hurdles but he just brushed it off and carried on as normal, so we did the same. “He jumped really well today and we’re chuffed that he’s won.”…

TYNEDALE Corbridge, Sunday 26 February Club members riders conditions. — 1, P Collins’ Solid Strike (P Collins) P Collins. open maiden 4,5,6&7yo. — 1, W Hamilton’s Diamond Brig (T Hamilton) W Hamilton. ladies’ open. — 1, A Brown’s Wind Of Hope (A Waugh) A Brown. men’s open. — 1, J Nellis’s One Conemara (J Dawson) C Coward. NPPA club members’. — 1, J Hamilton’s Wayupinthesky (T Hamilton) A Hamilton. restricted. — 1, Coward Fun Club’s Asheanymoney (J Dawson) S Coward. open maiden 8yo&up. — 1, Dixon Leckenby Partnership’s Lord Usher (K Leckenby) K Leckenby. COTTESMORE Garthorpe, Sunday 26 February Garthorpe hunts club members’. — 1, Strangely Browne Partnership’s Robin De Boss (D Peters) T Morgan. PPORA club members. — 1, Gorbit Racing Partnership’s Golden Tobouggan (C Hardwick) J Wadland. men’s…

RATEABLE VALUES for riding schools and livery yards will receive a huge hit when the new business rates come into force on 1 April 2017. In some cases, the increase could be as much as 300% and could make yards financially unsustainable. “It might kill our business and is a huge hiccup for the horse world,” says Jennie. “Not only will it affect our breeding in this country, but again it puts us on a back foot compared to equestrian businesses in Europe which are classed as agricultural businesses and pay no rates. “The future of our riding schools looks precarious, which has far-reaching consequences for the whole industry.”…

DEALERS, breeders and producers could be among those who need a licence to sell horses in the future, writes Lucy Elder. Defra outlined the next steps in its animal establishment licensing review last month. It is planning on introducing one “animal activities” licence, with the intention of “streamlining” the administrative process for local authorities and businesses. “We intend to use the term ‘animal activities’ rather than ‘animal establishment’ to make it clear that activities such as the online sale of pets are included as licensable activities,” states the review. A Defra spokesman told H&H it is giving “careful consideration” to which animals and types of sale would be covered and want to work closely with the equine sector. Jeanette Allen, Equine Sector Council (ECS) steering group chairman, told H&H the…

Isabell Werth’s horse Emilio, who was so terrified and erratic he “nearly went to heaven” as a young horse, has won a dressage World Cup qualifier. • horseandhound.co.uk/ isabell-werth-emilio Showjumper Jasmine Punter is back to winning ways a year after she broke her pelvis, hips and coccyx in a fall. • horseandhound.co.uk/ jasmine-punter The owner of two Dartmoors killed in traffic collisions left their bodies by the road as a warning to drivers. • horseandhound.co.uk/ warning-dartmoor-drivers Nine fire service vehicles were called to the rescue of a horse who had fallen 20ft off a cliff in Scotland. • horseandhound.co.uk/ scotland-cliff-rescue Pedro the Shetland met the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured) as inner-city Ebony Horse Club marked its 21st anniversary. • horseandhound.co.uk/pedromeets-duchess A rider and parish councillor is appalled by fellow owners’ fly-tipping on West Yorkshire country lanes. • horseandhound.co.uk/ furious-flying-tipping A…

VISITORS to Bolesworth International (14-18 June) can enjoy international dressage as well as showjumping. Carl Hester said he was “delighted” by the news during the official launch of the new Bolesworth CDI3* at his yard in Gloucestershire on 27 February. Carl is to compete at Bolesworth, and will give a demonstration on the first day of the show, after which he will join a question and answer session. Competition starts on the Wednesday, 14 June. • Visit: bolesworthinternational.com…

EQUINE GENITALS You know how it is, you wait ages for a story about horse penises, then two come along at once. Customs agents found 5.9kg of equine penis in 19kg of horse meat seized from two women arriving in the US from Mongolia. One of the woman said the genitals were for medicinal purposes. Of course they were. 100-ACRE WOOD A show organiser advertising arena eventing on Facebook said the fences on offer included “Tigger Traps”. One can only hope Winnie-the-Pooh and Piglet are safe… STORM-TOSSED SHOWING Showing supreme magnificence Robert Walker may have won just about every championship there is to win – but he wasn’t up for it last Thursday as Britain was battered by storms. “Hell’s bells Doris!!! Maybe it’s not the day for riding!” he…

HERD INSTINCT Sir — It was good to see the article on Exmoor ponies (16 February). The moorland herds managed by David and Emma Wallace and Rex Milton are an important part of the Exmoor pony story. Our oldest native breed is unique and the ruggedness and adaptability of these ponies in surviving on the moor is exceptional, but there is more to Exmoor ponies than just the moorland herds. There are many “upcountry” (not located on Exmoor) breeders and owners who produce quality ponies, ride them for enjoyment and attend shows across the UK. There are superb mares and stallions (your cover star Warrenmere Woodcock being an exceptional stallion) cared for by dedicated owners who travel up and down the country showing and promoting the breed. Exmoors’ strong herd…

LAST week we said goodbye to my retired eventer, who was 25 years old. As you do at these tearful times, I thought back over his life — he completed nearly 100 British Eventing horse trials, including seven CCI*s and one prized double clear at intermediate, before over eight years of active retirement (he was hacking out until five days before the end). In doing so, I was drawn to the feature about breeding for amateurs in this week’s breeding pull-out. Was he the obvious horse for me — and my mum, for he was her horse as much as mine? Possibly not. He was mostly thoroughbred, by the winning racehorse Bustomi. He was a sharp ride and no doubt with a rider with more talent or time, he would…

AIM A good medium trot should be uphill and the hindlegs should come under the body to give impulsion. For horses’ balance and development, it’s essential for them to learn to take the weight back on to the hindlegs. This exercise uses the half walk pirouette to balance the horse and encourage him to “sit” and flex his hock joints in preparation for medium trot. This is a 180˚ turn in which the horse’s hindlegs lift up and down in a small circle. When your horse is learning, you can make the circle larger and half-pass back to the track if necessary, keeping the bend and the engagement. EXERCISE STEP 1. Start on the track of the long side, approaching the corner at either the A or C end. As…

“WHETHER you’ve had a good or bad day, you always go home from a dressage test with a set of remarks. Read them, find out where you are losing marks, talk it through with your trainer and focus on the bits you need to practise,” says Sharon Butterworth. If you want added clarification or to know how you can improve further, don’t be afraid to speak to the judge at an appropriate moment and ask for more feedback. “Riders think judges are against them but they are not; judges are very approachable,” says Tracey Trotter. “Take your sheet and have a chat with the judge. The majority of judges ride, so they can relate to what competitors are going through.” If you have the chance to write for a dressage…

‘This is a bloody war but we will never give in’ Dear Mum and Dad, I hope this finds you well. I am sorry to say but fighting has now intensified and increases week on week. This past weekend was the 12th anniversary of the new beginning and the Hunting Act of 2004 — the reason why we are here. As the years rush by, it seems like only yesterday that we were witnessing the most unjust law ever passed and driven through the political process. The biggest peacetime demonstration in London, with over 400,000 of us marching to be heard, had no effect on their bigoted politics. You will remember the 700 hours of parliamentary time, the Lord Burns report they ignored, and, just when it looked like we…

FOR Kate Smith, winning the advanced medium gold with her own De La Veiga was just a bonus on top of the joy of being reunited with the big-moving Dimaggio 10-year-old. “I rode ‘Joey’ as a five-year-old, and he qualified for the nationals. But then, before we got to go, he was sold. He didn’t do any more competing and almost a year ago to the day, I finally found him roughed off in the field, looking like nothing,” explained Kate, who posted 75.93% here. “I always kept track of who had him and was always asking about him, throughout all those years. It felt like fate, that day I found him and was finally able to buy him. “He is such an exciting horse, with a brain like nothing…

• JO BYRNE has been appointed the new regional development officer (RDO) for the northern region of British Dressage (BD). After 30 years in policing, Jo brings her organisational ability to the role, as well as her lifelong love of dressage. Jo, a BHSAI, said: “My home is in Sheffield and I’m familiar with many of the northern venues, so I am determined to get out and about to meet everyone.” • ISABELL WERTH has become the first rider to achieve over 80% at international grand prix on three different horses. She achieved the feat riding Emilio 107 to just over 81% in the World Cup qualifier in Gothenburg, Sweden (23 February). Isabell’s other two rides to achieve the magic 80% are Bella Rose and Weihegold OLD. • BOBBY HAYLER…

CAROLINE STERANKA and Kate Powell’s 10-year-old Wild At Heart II had two plus-71% elementary wins at East Soley, Berks (12 February), as the pair get back on track after a difficult 2016. “Wonka” started his career as an eventer but after injury it was decided his talents were better directed towards dressage. He began affiliated competition in March last year but his progress was interrupted by a flare-up of Caroline's intermittent back problems. “In June I began to suffer from numbness in my legs and the doctor immediately sent me to the Great Western Hospital,” recalls Caroline. “They did an MRI scan which diagnosed a massive centrally herniated disc in my lower back which was pressing on my spinal cord - cauda equina syndrome. I had a discectomy to remove…

‘I love it when a plan comes together’ WELLINGTON is a small town about 30 minutes outside West Palm Beach in Florida. It’s home to roughly 5,000 horses that move into town around December each year until April for the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). It has grown at a huge pace over the past few years, with many top riders making it their winter base. I combine the trip to cover all facets of my life and business. My family joins me for the three-month stint — which is great — and we get to spend a lot of time together in a lovely climate. While our two kids Ben, three, and three-month-old Cara are so young and don’t sleep very well, at least Ruth and I are here together…

Vilamoura Atlantic Tour PHILLIP SPIVEY landed Thursday’s CSI3* 1.45m speed class in Portugal, worth € 6,150 (£5,240) to the winner, with his Diamant De Semilly mare Darya I Nur. Other big winners included Chloe Aston (Amigo T), James Smith (Quattro 27), Sophie Fawcett (Quite Cadiz) and Tim Page with a double on Elvera. Laura Renwick took a one-two in the six-year-old final on MHS Sanfrancisco (Quidam Junior x Cavalier Royale) and Arkuga, a home-bred out of Bintang II by Arko III. In the seven-year-olds, Nicole Pavitt’s Xena 16 (Warrior x Equador) triumphed. Spring MET Tour ON the gold tour in Oliva Nova, Spain, Alice Watson and Kec Havana triumphed in Thursday’s 1.40m speed class; Louise Simpson (Jaffar De Bourguignon) won on Thursday and Jemma Kirk (Tchoupi Pironniere) topped Saturday’s 1.30m…

NOTHING really changes in the final run-up to the Cheltenham Festival — the horses don’t know it is different to any other week in the year. Of course, the attention intensifies and things get busier. We have North Hill Harvey heading for the County Hurdle and we have a couple with chances on the Thursday (16 March). Unfortunately, the big news for us is that Superb Story has got a leg so will not be heading to the Festival as hoped. He has a tendon strain and the vet has said he might be back in training for December, so in time for next year’s Festival — obviously it’s hugely disappointing. You just think, ‘what if?’ That’s the hardest part; not knowing. It is the same for everyone and it’s…

Immy Robinson IMMY partnered Popaway (pictured, right) to success in the ladies’ open. The 25-year-old jockey works full-time in London. “I’m a researcher for social enterprise,” said Immy. “I ride out for Pauline and Doug Harkin one day a week and I go to the gym at lunchtimes. I do high-intensity strength work and short, sharp exercises.” Immy hopes to aim Popaway at Cheltenham. Should the pair be victorious, the jockey would be following in the footsteps of her mother Caroline (née Beasley), who was successful in the Cheltenham feature on Eliogarty in 1983 and then won the Aintree equivalent three years later.…

HIS sire, Fürst Heinrich, was the jewel in the Sprehe Stud’s crown, bursting onto the breeding and competition scene and being crowned world young horse champion in 2003, as a five-year-old. Two years later he was dead, passing away in a clinic in Germany. In that short window, he sired a spectacularly talented bunch of offspring, including the double world young horse champion Woodlander Farouche, the stallions Fürst Wilhelm, Van The Man and Fürstano, as well as scores of grand prix dressage horses including Fürst Diamantino (Emma Corbett), Fürstano and Fiero 9. Not to mention the droves of verbands premium and state premium mares. Fürstenball’s dam, Maradonna (pictured), was also a bundle of exceptional genes. She comes from a famous dam-line and has herself produced not only the boggly-eyed marvel,…

‘Horses by the same sire are not siblings — no, never’ PERUSING adverts for horses makes for an interesting exercise — even though in my case it is now purely theoretical. Being interested in breeding means I always look for the bloodlines, which help give a picture of the horse. Yet it never ceases to disappoint a) how many do not always include the basic breeding or b) how many variations there are without actually giving the information. Phrases such as “bred on eventing lines”, “well bred” or “home-bred” appear but without mention of any pedigree — particularly frustrating. If I were looking for a horse bred on eventing lines then I would really want to know which lines before deciding whether to respond. And surely if a horse is…