As the dust settles on another season I am sorry to say goodbye to our show hunter pony Annadale Maria (pictured) but excited to look forward to our new horses and ponies for next season.

This season ended not quite as well as it started for us, but we must focus on the year’s achievements as a whole.

Our highlight was the championship at Royal Windsor. Maria will be greatly missed she has a huge character that shines through in the show ring.

Everyone will have their own highlights and disappointments from HOYS whether it is competing or spectating.

I was sorry to see judges coming up for criticism but surely the powers that be at Grandstand Media could have seen it coming. It begs the question once again, who makes the decisions on who stands in the middle? A good judge makes a good show. The show is mentally and physically draining as well as hard on the pocket and the only thing competitors ask is for good judges.

Judges came into question too at the earlier BSPS Championship show. There are a lot of classes here to find judges for so I sympathise but championship shows are not the place to experiment.

The BSHA championships also had its fair share of judges chat with them being accused of not changing the judges enough from year to year and section judges being the same from previous blue riband shows. So how can the societies get it right? It doesn’t sound an easy job. We see lots of great judging all year so it’s a shame when the focus is on the negative.

One of my personal highlights in recent months was our trip to Ireland horse shopping at Gorsebridge sales. I love the challenge of finding a champion among many different types. I think we brought home some exceptional horses this time who are already destined to go to lovely owners with very successful producers so I look forward to watching them next year. Last year’s bunch have been a super lot of horses to follow this year. It is such an education to go to the sales and is something that anyone who wishes to be a top judge should visit several times.

I enjoyed all my judging commitments immensely this year. Several were with my father (David Tatlow) who never ceases to amaze me with his enthusiasm and the sensible comments he makes. If any of you get the opportunity to judge with him, jump at the chance. I rode some wonderful horses and some less so. In fact it’s quite scary what some poor souls ride day in, day out. It makes me feel privileged to have experienced riding the top level horses I have while both judging and competing. My other co-judges this year have been wonderful and I do believe have cemented a very good friendship.

Autumn hunting has played a big part in horse production this season with such super dry ground we have had many of the show horses and ponies out this time.

One or two get a bit bored with the manege and it certainly pricks their ears up to another side of life.

We like to jump all the animals we have especially as my children, and Georgia who helps me with the horses, are all jumping mad! Our local hunt meet at our place very soon so the port order is on its way.

The diary is now full of eventer challenges and BSPS novice shows. I keep promising my long suffering husband I will be home more weekends but my daughter Alice keeps filling them up! As I write this we are returning from a short city break to Venice which was fabulous.

I see many of my fellow showing friends are heading off for holidays this half term. I wish you all a fab horse-free holiday and you may just get a moment on your sun lounger to read this.

Loraine

Are spots your kind of thing? if you fancy standing out from the crowd with something a little bit different, don’t miss this selection of appaloosas and spotted horses for sale on the Horse & Hound website this week.

1. ‘Top class eventer’

Height: 16.3hh

Age: five

Gender: mare

Selling points: “This warmblood mare has placings and double clears at BE90 and BE100, with the potential to go to the top. She is brave and bold with heaps of scope. She is a lovely person and not marish. She is good to do and would suit a professional or competitive amateur.”

View the advert

2. ‘An exciting prospect’

Height: 15.2hh

Age: four

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “This gelding by Limited Edition has been shown in hand with success and has recently been professionally backed. He has three nice paces and is a lovely horse to have around.”

View the advert

3. ‘Super friendly’

Height: 14.2hh

Age: three

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “This pony is ready to be backed. He is very willing and enjoys his work. He isn’t fizzy and was successfully shown as a yearling. He will suit a competent teenager/mother-daughter share. He has super flowing paces, a natural scopey jump and is good to do.”

View the advert

Continued below…

7 fabulous hunting ponies for sale this week *PICTURES*

• 17 October, 2015 - 08:25

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7 super schoolmasters for sale this week *PICTURES*

• 3 October, 2015 - 08:25

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4. ‘Will jump anything put at him’

Height: 14.2hh

Age: 10

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “‘Just Jeff’ is a bay appaloosa who is currently jumping newcomers/foxhunters BS. He has previously evented and has schooled up to 1.5m at home. He needs a competitive home. Perfect to do.”

View the advert

5. ‘Confidence giving all-rounder’

Height: 15.2hh

Age: 14

Gender: gelding

Selling points: “‘Tigger’ is a lovely all-rounder and regularly jumps up to 1.20m at home. He enjoys cross-country, dressage, PC/RC events, hunting, hacking and general school work and has won many rosettes. We bought Tigger to build my daughter’s confidence and he has done a remarkable job. Good to do in all ways.”

View the advert

6. ‘Lovely stallion’

Height: 84cm

Age: 10

Gender: stallion

Selling points: “This is a lovely good natured miniature pony with no vices. He is good with his foals, who can also be seen.”

View the advert

NB: Horse & Hound has not checked the accuracy of the claims made in these adverts and cannot be held liable if the information included above is inaccurate in any way

View more horses for sale on horseandhound.co.uk

The Rio Olympics are on the horizon and, as we know, equestrian sports, — particularly dressage and eventing — have been under threat for years. But with new sports coming in at Rio — golf and rugby sevens — and five more recommended for inclusion at Tokyo 2020 — baseball/softball, karate, skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing — this is a threat we need to take really seriously.

The big question mark with dressage is the length of the tests and the time it takes. In eventing it’s the cost and time of course-building and so on.

Great Britain must be at the forefront of trialling ideas and piloting classes to help our sport stay in the Olympics. In dressage, for example, the time it takes for each competitor to enter and leave the arena is something we could look at, especially as in showjumping by the time one competitor has finished a round the next is already in.

One of my questions is whether we need all those collective marks at the end of the test, which take time for the judges to enter. Should these be replaced with an overall mark for impression? I know this will probably cause gasps, hands up in horror and general uproar among those who don’t want the sport to change and to maintain the old classical tests but it is simple — if we don’t change, we’ll be out.

Those new sports waiting to get their places at the Olympics will have no issues with rules and regulations. They’ll be going to TV companies to ask what they want to see to make these sports exciting on telly.

What we need in dressage is cameras behind the scenes. It’s difficult that the FEI does not allow it, but what if viewers could see backstage, watch the preparation, and hear from the grooms getting horses ready? They do it in Formula One, at the pit stops where you can see the tension, the drama and the story unfolding. Let’s get our story out to the public.

Team managers and riders need to get their collective heads around the idea as this is interesting for the public and provides emotion to connect to. You only have to see all the clips of Alan Davies and Valegro on YouTube to get the picture. We must promote the teamwork, the harmony, the work that goes into our sport and the characters, both human and equine. Think back to what’s often referred to as the “golden age” of showjumping when the horses were household names.

Eventing and dressage are safe for Rio (if all the paperwork is in place of course), but let’s treat this as a window of opportunity and get working on how we can stay safe. We’re lucky that the BBC supports what we do, but what about the broadcasters who don’t? Let’s talk to TV producers and find out what we need to do to make the sport more appealing. Look at Channel 4 Racing. The main thing is that we get working, look at ideas and be prepared for change — if we’re to stay in the Olympics, that’s what we’ll have to do.

The mystery half-halt

A question I get asked a lot on my travels and when I’m teaching, that generates plenty of discussion, is what exactly is a half-halt? Well, what it isn’t is amateur dentistry leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. It’s an essential refining aid and most top riders will have their own way of describing it. So for the best explanation I turned to Podhajsky’s The Complete Training of Horse and Rider. It’s on page 40 in the old editions in all its glory — enjoy!

Ref: Horse & Hound; 22 October 2015

A popular grass roots British Eventing (BE) event is returning next year under new management.

Stafford Horse Trials is back on the 2016 BE eventing calendar with new organisers James and Vicky Plant.

In June organiser Amy Dixon announced that she was stepping down after 10 years of running the event, due to health reasons, and that the fences would be sold off.

Since it began in 2005, the event has grown hugely and now welcomes around 800 combinations at each of its two events a year.

But now the event has been reinstated.

The Plants have built more cross-country fences and the landowner, Richard Williams, has laid new drainage around the water complex to improve the going.

James is a gold level course-builder who has built courses for the Stafford event since it started.

His wife Vicky has also been involved with Stafford since the launch carrying out roles from chief steward to assistant organiser.

James’s mother Janet will be designing the course after a period of absence following a battle with cancer.

“This is a park that Janet knows well and we look forward to seeing how she will incorporate the new fences, many of which have already been designed and built,” said Vicky.

“Stafford has always been a well-known event and many riders were extremely disappointed when it stopped. We are looking forward to working with Richard Williams to secure the future of this popular event,” Vicky told H&H.

BE chief executive David Holmes said: “The number of riders competing at the lower levels of the sport is dramatically rising every year so it is wonderful to share the news that a much loved event is back in the calendar and being run by such a welcoming and well organised team.”

The provisional dates for Stafford in 2016 are 18-20 March and 15-17 July. There are BE80(T), BE90 and BE100 classes over the three days.

The new website (www.staffordht.co.uk) will be launched next week.

The Plant family run other BE events at Weston Park and Brand Hall in Shropshire.

Worried about your horse losing weight this winter? Most owners are, but many shouldn’t be. It is natural for a horse’s weight to fluctuate according to the time of year, and preventing this from happening can be bad for their long-term health.

Why letting your horse lose weight could be a good thing

1. The horse’s metabolism is designed around a natural annual weight fluctuation. So in the summer, when forage is plentiful, this is converted to fat and leads to weight gain. In the wild these fat reserves are used in the winter to ensure survival when the temperature drops and there is no grass, resulting in weight loss.

2. Your horse’s metabolic system works in the same way, even though he is unlikely to need these fat reserves. The modern equine lifestyle means domestic horses tend to burn fewer calories keeping warm than those living in the wild.

Continued below…

H&H Feed Week: 6 things to remember when feeding your competition horse

• 22 October, 2015 - 14:25

We talk you through the dos and don'ts of feeding the performance horse for optimum condition with the help of More…

3. “Our winters are no longer always that cold. More critically, however, many horses are not exposed to the extremes of wintry weather. They are stabled with plentiful rugs and do not need extra fat reserves to keep warm,” says H&H vet Karen Coumbe MRCVS.

4. Horses stand still for longer periods during winter, too, due to being stabled. “We want them to be eating for as many hours as possible for their digestive health and to prevent boredom, but leisure animals don’t work as hard as they did in days past,” adds Kath Urwin, manager at the Blue Cross’s equine centre in Rolleston.

5. If a horse does not lose any weight through the winter, there is no room for the natural weight gain in spring and summer. “With rugs and up to three feeds a day, it’s easy for weight to stay on,” adds Kath. “We would expect horses to be in ideal condition or a little over during summer. It’s OK for them to be leaner coming out of winter, especially if field-kept all year round.”

How to get the balance right:

• Assess your horse and plan ahead. Weight loss is far easier in the colder months when your horse’s metabolism is already working to that effect.
• Use a weight tape regularly. Winter coats and rugs can make it harder to gauge condition.
• Treat every horse as an individual, and feed and rug them according to their type and workload.
• Feed plenty of roughage (hay and haylage). This provides warmth and so it should be the crux of every horse’s diet, even those in hard work. Many will need little else apart from vitamins and a supplement containing trace elements and minerals as necessary.

Read more in the current issue of Horse & Hound Ask The Vet, on sale now

Advertisement Feature

This year’s Olympia Horse Show (15-21 December) audience will be treated to masterclasses from dressage stalwart Kyra Kyrklund and British Olympic gold medal winner Laura Tomlinson.

Finnish dressage rider Kyra (pictured above) has an impressive series of accolades to her name; she has competed in five Olympic and FEI World Equestrian Games, taking silver in 1990 with Matador, and winning the 1991 World Cup Finals in Paris. One of the world’s most highly respected and accomplished trainers, Kyra has been nicknamed ‘The Great Communicator’ for her ability to teach in English, German, Finnish and Swedish. Audiences have a rare chance to witness these training skills on Tuesday 15 December when Kyra will be assessing and guiding an aspiring young grand prix rider.

Don’t miss out on your chance to pick up tips from this dressage star – see below for an exclusive Horse&Hound discount!

On the evening of Wednesday 16 December, Laura Tomlinson (pictured above) will be returning to Olympia to give audiences the benefit of her gold medal-winning experience. Laura was part of the gold medal-winning team in London 2012 with Mistral Hojris and, since his retirement at Olympia in 2013, has been concentrating on bringing on her young horse Unique. Tomlinson’s masterclass will provide the perfect insight into her training techniques, focusing in particular on how to deal with a difficult competition environment.

Buy your Olympia tickets here

Thrilling International Displays

Alongside world-class dressage competition and masterclasses, Olympia will be hosting two thrilling international displays. The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will be returning to the show with their much-loved musical ride that includes high speed cross overs and their iconic flag charge out of the arena. Audiences will be treated to a ride of both skilled military precision and ceremonial splendour.

Internationally renowned horseman Jean-François Pignon will be demonstrating the unique bond he has with his horses in a beautifully choreographed performance of trust and intelligence. It is a display which has to be seen to be believed.

Firm Olympia favourite The Shetland Pony Grand National will also be returning to provide audiences with all the excitement of a traditional horse race in minature. Make sure that you cheer these pint-sized ponies and their young jockeys home!

Olympia Dressage Grand Prix Ticket Offer

Horse&Hound readers get an exclusive 30% discount on Tuesday 15 evening performance to watch Kyra Kyrkland’s unmissable masterclass plus the Reem Acra FEI World Cup dressage grand prix. Book your tickets online www.olympiahorseshow.com or through the box office 0871 230 5580 and quote the code ‘HHTue’ to receive your discount.

Those early season nerves at the meet are all too familiar… As is the moment you look across to see someone a sixth of your age and a quarter of your size, on a pony with barely-there legs merrily enjoying the occassion.

And then there is that heart-sinking moment when your 16.1hh “experienced hunter” is turning himself inside out at an insignificant set of rails, and that pony you spotted earlier sails over in front of you.

All hail for the budding thrusters of the future — they certainly know how to put us in our place…

Oliver Gillman

All the gear: four-year-old Oliver Gillman and his 26-year-old pony Tuffty enjoying their first day hunting with the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale last season.

Martha German

Fine style: Martha German shows the field how it’s done with her smart dun pony.

Livvia Krajnyk

Six-year-old Livvia Krajnyk gears up for a day out on Belchford Gwenno.

Continued below…

9 photos that are sure to get you excited for the hunting season

• 17 October, 2015 - 17:55

If you weren't excited enough already, we've dug out nine photos of followers and hunt staff on flying form with More…

Kathleen Curtin and Isobel Curtin

Sister act: Kathleen Curtin on Milly and Isobel Curtin on Freddy wait for the County Clare Hunt to arrive in Kilmihil, Co Clare, with with their grandfather Pat Curtin.

Holly and Seth

Worthy of a pairs’ competition: Holly and her best friend Seth, both two, on their ponies Star and Bart at the Chatsworth House meet with the Barlow Hunt.

Freddie Shutler

Freddie Shutler’s legs might not quite reach the bottom of the saddle flap, but he looks ready to get out autumn hunting with the Kimblewick.

Molly Shotton

Bad hair day? Molly Shotton’s pony’s mane is certainly not holding them back… Look out for mention of Molly and her super hunting pony in the feature about marvellous hunting ponies in H&H’s hunting special issue, on sale from 22 October.

Sasha Lawes

Mud, mud, glorious… Sasha Lawes would have been frantically searching for the vanish after her day out with the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray last season, however it hasn’t deterred her and she is all set for the season ahead.

Hunting mad? Don’t miss this week’s 20-page hunting special of Horse & Hound magazine, where we look at some of the best hunting ponies around, hunting literature that you won’t be able to put down PLUS the full hunting directory

The top five remain unchanged following an exciting cross-country phase at Pau horse trials today (24 October).

Michael Jung proved once again why he is ranked number one in the world after producing two text book clears to hold on to first and second places. However, less than four faults separate the top four meaning Michael cannot afford a showjump down tomorrow in order to claim his third CCI4* title this season.

Halunke FBW (pictured above) stopped the clock 0.25 of a second adrift of the 11 minutes 36 seconds optimum time to pick up 0.4 of a time-fault and remain in first place.

“I was a little too slow at the beginning because it’s his first first-star,” said Michael. “He’s a big, strong horse and I have to prepare him for the distances more than my other horse.”

Fischerrocana FST came home penalty-free to lie second.

“At both of her last two events she has had problems at water, so for the first three minutes today I gave her more time to make sure she was feeling confident,” said Michael of his Kentucky CCI4* winner, who was retired at Luhmuhlen in June when she stumbled in water and then fell in water at Burghley last month.

Emily King rode with skill and bravery beyond her 19 years to bring Brookleigh (pictured above) home clear inside the time and hold on to third place.

“He’s never done this distance before but he found a good rhythm and I went for all the forward, attacking distances. He responded well,” said Emily, who is making her debut at this level.

France’s Astier Nicolas fell off his first horse, Quickly Du Buguet, when the mare pecked on landing from the narrow grapes fence (La grappe de raisins, 21).

However, the Frenchman fared better on his second ride, Piaf De B’Neville, who was faultless to stay fourth overnight.

“He’s very genuine,” said Astier. “It felt like I was playing a game to start with but then he got tired. He gave me a good ride.”

Tim Price and Wesko recorded the fastest round of the day when they stopped the clock with 26 seconds to spare. They lie fifth.

It wasn’t plain-sailing for all of the 47 starters, however. Seven combinations were eliminated, two retired and 10 finished with jumping penalties to add.

America’s Jennie Brannigan, lying ninth after the dressage, came to grief when Cambalda crumpled on landing after a hedge (La haie de lauriers) at 15. It was not a good day for the USA, who had four riders competing and only one — Katie Ruppel on Houdini — finished, albeit with 40 jumping and 67.6 time-faults to add.

Sarah Bullimore pulled off a sensational pathfinding round about Valentino V to move up to 12^th overnight.

“He’s an old pro; I did get it wrong a couple of times but he said ‘no mum’ and sorted it out,” said Sarah, who was eliminated on Lily Corinne when the mare failed to pass through the flags at the grapes.

Sarah also picked up 20 faults aboard Reve Du Rouet, who ran out at the last element of the third water, Le gue des poisons (24). As predicted on Friday, the three water complexes proved influential.

The final one was also the undoing of Lucy Wiegersma when Mr Chunky drifted left after negotiating the table in and went on to jump the perimeter fence, where he was unbalanced by deep water. Both emerged unhurt.

Julie Tew was taken off course on a stretcher after falling from Simply Sox after negotiating a corner out of the second water (Le gue des pistes, 19/20). She was taken to hospital and found to have a broken hip.

• Tomorrow’s showjumping starts at 2.30pm French time (1.30pm GST). Don’t miss our report on the final day on HorseandHound.co.uk tomorrow evening.

Pau horse trials: top 10 after cross-country:

1 Halunke FBW (Michael Jung, GER) 34.9

2 Fischerrocana FST (Michael Jung, GER) 35.4

3 Brookleigh (Emily King, GBR) 38.3

4 Piaf De B’neville (Astier Nicolas, FRA) 38.5

5 Wesko (Tim Price, NZL) 40

6 Concrex Bayro (Tim Lips, NED) 40.9

7 Indian Mill (Paul Tapner, AUS) 42.3

8 Entebbe De Hus (Karim Florent Laghoua, FRA) 42.6

9 Shannondale Titan (Bill Levett, AUS) 42.9

10 FRH Butts Avedon (Andreas Dibowski, GER) 42.9
View the results in full here.

Don’t miss the full Pau report in next week’s issue of Horse & Hound magazine, on sale 29 October.

Horse owners could be risking their horse’s health by not worming correctly.

Results from this year’s National Equine Health Survey (NEHS) showed that 29% of people who thought they had treated for encysted small redworm had used an unsuitable product.

Small redworm are the most common worms found in UK horses and, in their encysted stage, are potentially fatal.

They don’t show up in faecal worm egg counts and may not cause obvious symptoms so owners may not know their horse has them.

The only two active ingredients licensed to treat the small redworm are a single dose of moxidectin or a five-day course of fenbendazole.

The survey results showed 22.5% of those who specified how they treated for encysted small redworm had used ivermectin and 6.3% had used products licensed for tapeworm.

Of the remaining respondents 64% (down from 71% in 2014) had correctly used moxidectin and 7% had used fenbendazole.

“Encysted small redworm are potentially the most harmful parasites to affect horses in the UK, yet the survey results show consistent confusion over the correct product to use to minimise risk.

“It is imperative for owners to discuss their worm control plan with their vet or SQP and use the right product at the right time to safeguard their horses’ health,” said Wendy Talbot, for equine health company Zoetis.

The company recommends horses should be wormed for encysted small redworm during November or December. This can be combined with a treatment for bots.

Owners should also carry out faecal worm egg counts every two-three months throughout the grazing season and treat for strongyles as required.

Once or twice a year horses should be tested and treated for tapeworm to complete year-round worm control in adult horses.

For more information visit: www.wormingyourhorse.info

With Pau Horse Trials coming to a close in France, you may have been inspired by the weather, food  — and wine. Take a look at these horsey homes nestled in the French countryside for some inspiration.

Equestrian property for sale in France

1. Château de Combecave, Tarn-et-Garonne

For you: a hilltop château with six bedrooms, a guest cottage, formal gardens, saltwater swimming pool and a climate-controlled wine cellar.
For the horses: a fully renovated stone barn with five loose boxes, plus paddocks. Set in 62 acres.
What’s the damage? €2.8m (approx £2.1m)
Agent: Savills
Telephone number: 020 7016 3740
Visit: www.savills.com

2. Domaine d’Escudes, Gascony

For you: a former hunting lodge with six bedrooms, a tennis court, swimming pool and secondary accommodation.
For the horses: one loose box with post-and-rail-fenced paddocks, with potential to develop the facilities further. Set in 93.89 acres.
What’s the damage? €1.28m (approx £947,000)
Agent:  Knight Frank
Telephone number: 020 7861 5034
Visit: www.knightfrank.com

Continued below…

Beat winter darkness with these equestrian properties for sale with floodlit arenas *PICTURES*

• 18 October, 2015 - 08:55

Are you struggling to find the time (and daylight) to ride as winter sets in? As the light fades, we’re More…

4 dream equestrian properties for sale with horse walkers *PICTURES*

• 27 September, 2015 - 11:55

As autumn dawns and the days get shorter and more dark, we're lusting after a property with a horse walker

3. Villa in Mougins, Cote d’Azur

For you: this is one of 10 villas on the Argeville Equestrian Centre in Mougins. It’s in a 200-hectare private domain, with five bedrooms, a home cinema, and heated swimming pool.
For the horses: Argeville Equestrian Centre, owned by Pablo Picasso’s granddaughter, has an indoor and two outdoor arenas, with stabling for 48.
What’s the damage? €2.75m (approx £2.03m)
Agent: Fine & Country
Telephone number: 00 33 4 925 925 93
Visit: www.fineandcountry.com/fr

4. Near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Provence

For you: a two-bedroom property with a spacious open kitchen in the living room, in a rural position close to Saint-Rémy.
For the horses: an indoor arena, 14 interior stables, four exterior stables and a large barn. The property also has two large buildings for hay storage and agricultural tools, and is set in 48.8 acres.
What’s the damage? €1.495m (approx £1.1m)
Agent: Knight Frank
Telephone number: 020 7629 8171
Visit: www.knightfrank.co.uk

Ref: Horse & Hound; 22 October 2015

Selecting the right people to help you get the most from your horse can be a complicated business and something of a minefield at times. When it comes to vets, most people will recruit according to geographical location, with others having their horses treated out-with the catchment of where they live on the basis of a referral, personal recommendation or previous experience with that practice or particular vet.

Choosing a therapist can be a slightly more tricky area and is a particularly prickly subject in some professional circles.

The UK equine industry is brimming with different therapists offering an array of approaches to treatment, all of which make a common claim; they will all do their very best to fix your horse. But where on earth do you start?

Well, at the very base of things is the law. The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 1962 allows for the treatment of animals with ‘physiotherapy’, provided that the animal has first been seen by a vet who has diagnosed the condition and decided that the intervention of a therapist is appropriate under his/her direction. This act was preceded by the Protection of Animals Act, 1911, which allocated liability to both the practitioner and the owner if the horse is treated without veterinary diagnosis and the animal suffers as a result.

Finally, and stick with me here, but physiotherapy doesn’t just mean that work undertaken by a physiotherapist, in the eyes of the law it also encompasses osteopathy and chiropractic techniques, but not acupuncture and homeopathy which can only be undertaken by a suitably qualified veterinary surgeon. Phew. Well, not quite; the 1966 Veterinary Surgeons Act said that however qualified you are to treat humans, you can’t treat animals without further qualification. So doctors can’t treat horses in the same way vets can’t treat people, and so and so forth for therapeutic professionals.

The law may tell you where you stand in terms of the possibility of prosecution, but it doesn’t help you

Ultrasound

pick who to join your horse’s team in terms of keeping them comfortable and able to do their job properly.

What it does do however is say that a vet must see your horse for the complaint that makes you want a therapist to see your horse in the first place, and so they must be your starting point. Your vet is there not only to diagnose and administer treatment to your horse, but also to advise you and decide who is the best person for the job in hand.

Now this all sounds very straightforward, but we all know that as horse owners we talk to our friends, colleagues, trainers and yard owners about who they use and then factor this into the discussion with the vet. But the vet is key nonetheless; one of the most common reason for seeking complementary therapy for a horse is because they have back pain in some form.

It is more common for back pain to be a secondary issue than a primary cause of dysfunction in a horse, which means that you need the vet to determine and treat the underlying source of the pain, which is very often lameness. By treating the secondary pain without diagnosing the root cause you’re essentially just sticking a plaster on it at best.

The reason that choosing a therapist can be such a difficult proposition is because there are just so many of them and the fact is that some of them are just better than others within and out-with their own schools of training.

Assessment

The key is to work with your vet to determine what and who you and your horse need. A therapeutic diagnosis is different from a veterinary diagnosis and is reached by the deduction of what is required to restore normal function in a horse, and will and should incorporate the vet’s findings. So that means that if a practitioner tells you that they will improve how your horse is moving, they must at least be willing to see it trot-up, lunge, and move in any other way deemed appropriate. This again is where a veterinary referral is essential; we have horses that come to us that are seen by one of our therapists but have had surgical intervention only weeks before and thus aren’t allowed out of walk at that point in their recovery. Without a referral a therapist wouldn’t know this and so could cause serious harm; this may sound unlikely but scarily it can happen, and is where the owner has a responsibility too.

Title and qualifications aren’t everything, but you should understand how your chosen therapist has been trained and exactly what they are allowed to do.

A chartered therapist who treats horses can only ever be an equine osteopath or physiotherapist, with the chartered aspect representing the fact that they have trained to practice in human therapy first. There is no such thing as a chiropractor who treats horses as this is a title protected to describe human practitioners only, the equivalent in horses being those trained in McTimeony-Corely techniques.

In terms of sports massage, you want to look for someone who is accredited to reputable governing body, such as the Equine Sports Massage Association (ESMA).

Whatever their qualification, whether they are chartered or not, I want a therapist to understand a horse’s history, what is demanded by its job and what will be asked of it in the future. For my money, this is what makes someone really stand out in terms of their ability to help. They must have an excellent eye for asymmetry and lameness, and be realistic and professional enough to refer back to the vet when they encounter something they can’t deal with.

Only when you can contextualise and rationalise your treatment and role within the overall management of a horse can you make a positive contribution to its care. There are plenty of great therapists out there who really can help, don’t accept anything less!

Fizz

As the outdoor season ends, it’s worth reviewing new combinations with the potential to be on British teams next year. One that has really stood out for me is Clark Glasgow and his stunning 10-year-old bay mare Fleur De L’Aube.

Clark’s fledgling career has gone through the roof over the past few months. He’s the British Showjumping national champion and at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) he won a class, was placed in the grand prix and finished as the leading British rider.

Fleur has blood; she’s also careful, scopey and has the ability to go all the way. Nevertheless, Clark is abandoning his international ambitions because he feels his chosen profession of medicine is more important than the fame and glory a sporting career can bring.

I caught up with him the day after HOYS. He’d had a 2.30am finish at the show on the Sunday night, followed by a 7am start at the hospital as part of his seven-year course.

Why was he giving up when he has a horse that any junior or young rider would die for, I asked him.

A day of lectures and dissections was proving to be “a brilliant return to earth”, he replied. Riding is a passion, but it was not what he was meant to do.

“I want to make a difference to people’s lives,” he told me. “I want to try to figure out one compound, one drug to help people live longer and ultimately cure disease.”

Clark also revealed that Fleur would not be lost to British showjumping. There have been good offers made — which I know to be true because I asked if he wanted to sell her — but his parents have decided to keep her and enjoy watching Tim Stockdale take the ride.

Tim will ride the mare at an international show abroad this week. Thanks to the Glasgow family’s support, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them on teams next year.

That a good horse is to stay in the UK is great news for our sport. And how refreshing to come across this charming and humble young man who’s very different to some when they’ve had a bit of success.

I wish Clark the very best. However much importance we place on our achievements in sport, it pales into total insignificance compared with a quest to cure cancer.

Unbeatable atmosphere

Many of my older friends still talk about the great times we had at HOYS at Wembley.

There were so many places you could meet up that lots of people visited annually even if they didn’t have horses competing, just to be part of it.

Olympia is where they go now, as Birmingham’s NEC is a soulless place for competitors, connections and grooms. You get tired of incessant wristband inspections by security personnel; you go for a drink at one of the outlets and when you ask for some ice, you’re looked at as if you’re from Mars.

And yet, just as you’re starting to get hacked off with it all, you go into the main arena and witness the full house, the incredible acoustics and the crowd involvement — and realise that it makes for an atmosphere that no three-star show in the world can surpass.

Having watched the vaulting this year, I can’t understand why gymnastics on horseback isn’t an Olympic sport. It must surely be one of the most cost-effective equestrian disciplines, which the public of every nation would love.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 22 October 2015

There will be greater chances for apprentices in the equestrian industry thanks to the government’s approval of a new scheme.

The equine groom and senior equine groom apprenticeships’ standards were approved by David Cameron this summer, and next month work will begin on the assessment plans.

The apprenticeships were drawn up by a cross-discipline group representing all facets of equestrianism, from the British Equestrian Federation and the British Horseracing Authority to the Household Cavalry.

Through the radical reform of apprenticeships, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills aims to increase their quality, put employers in the driving seat and simplify the system.

In doing so, it expects that the successful apprentice will be held in the same esteem as a university graduate.

The government is currently redesigning 76 different apprenticeship schemes, ranging from TV production to welding.

The standards for the new level two and three equine apprenticeships have been drafted by the Equine Trailblazer Apprenticeship group.

“These standards have been carefully formulated to fulfil the government’s aim to produce world-class grooms who are industry-ready,” said Sue Martin, chairman of the Equestrian Trailblazers.

“The reform aims to standardise the core knowledge and skills of the grooms, while offering training in a chosen sector of the industry including breeding, driving, racing, riding and equestrianism as a whole.”

The standards received 93% approval from employers, confirming the need for change in preparing the future professionals for the equestrian industry.

Nick Boles, the minister of state for Skills, commented: “Businesses are better placed than anyone to train the next generation of workers and will help us deliver three million high-quality apprenticeships by 2020.

“By designing apprenticeships, employers like Trent Park Equestrian Centre are ensuring that young talented people develop the skills needed to progress up the career ladder and help drive businesses forward.”

Ref: H&H 22/10/15

In Horse & Hound's recent Winter Feeding Guide, published in association with Spillers, we took a look at the debate surrounding sugar — from what exactly it is, to whether we should fear it

Sugar has become a dirty word in recent years. So with ever-growing concerns over equine obesity and laminitis, and with EMS (Equine metabolic syndrome) on the rise, is the sugar fear-factor really justified? We investigate…

1. What is sugar?

Sugars are carbohydrates and can be broadly categorised according to the number of units they contain. Monosaccharides or simple sugars consist of just one unit and include glucose, fructose and galactose. Disaccharides consist of two units and include sucrose (the sugar that goes in your tea), lactose (milk sugar) and maltose (which makes Maltesers taste so good). Oligosaccharides consist of multiple units and includes fructo-oligosacchradies, found in vegetables and forages.

2. Sources of sugar

Athough many owners agonise over the amount of sugar that goes into their horse’s feed bowl, you may be surprised to learn that forage is in fact the largest source of sugar in the horse’s diet; even for those without access to grazing. Grass can contain up to 7.5% sugar and 50% water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), which means for every kilogram (dry matter) of grass eaten, the horse could consume up to 75g of sugar and 500g of WSC. Studies have shown that ponies turned out un-muzzled can consume up to 5% of their bodyweight in grass. If the same applies to a 500kg horse, this would equate to 1.9kg of sugar and 12.5kg of WSC per day from grass alone. But what about those without turnout? Hay may contain in excess of 20% WSC, so if fed at 10kg per day, could easily provide more than 2kg of WSC. Compound feeds typically contain 5-7% sugar but, importantly, are consumed in much smaller quantities. So, in real terms, the recommended ration of mix or cubes for a500kg horse in light work would provide just 150-210g of sugar.

Continued below…

H&H Feed Week: 11 products to keep your horse happy this winter

• 21 October, 2015 - 09:55

Want to boost your horse's digestive system, add condition without fizz or keep topline on a stabled horse? Take a More…

3. Can horses be allergic to sugar?

No, glucose is vital for life. In fact, it’s the primary energy source utilised by the brain. Even if the sugar levels in the diet are low, the horse’s body converts other nutrients to glucose to meet demand. True feed allergies in horses are rare and when they do occur, they are in response to a specific type of protein, not sugar. Although high levels of energy and WSC in grass may sometimes be responsible for putting a spring in your horse’s step, behavioural changes “diagnosed” as an intolerance to sugar are most commonly caused by feeding higher levels of cereal starch.

4. Molasses

Molasses can be a concern for horse owners especially if they have a horse or pony prone to laminitis. Molasses is a by-product of either sugar cane or sugarbeet processing and, contrary to popular belief, is not pure sugar. Having said that, it’s the rate at which molasses is fed rather than its sugar content per se that’s important. Molasses and its variants such as molglo (a blend of molasses and oil) and molaferm contain approximately 30-54% sugar and are typically added to feeds at 6-10%, thus contributing just 2-5% sugar to the finished feed. Put simply, feeds containing molasses are not automatically high in sugar and, equally, molasses-free feeds are not sugar free. For laminitics (including those with EMS) and cushingoid horses/ponies it is the total amount of sugar in the diet rather than the exclusion of individual ingredients that is most important. However, several feed companies now offer molasses-free alternatives for those who seek to avoid it.

5. Carrots and treats

Many owners are concerned or even advised that carrots, apples and equine treats contain high levels of sugar and should be avoided, particularly for excitable or laminitic horses. In truth, carrots consist of approximately 85% water, which means that each carrot actually contains a negligible level of sugar and calories. Although in percentage terms treats may seem high in sugar, the quantity in which they are fed again means they contribute very little sugar to the total diet. Although they shouldn’t be fed by the bucketful, treating your horse or pony to a few carrots (or other treats) won’t do any harm. Remember, everything in moderation.

6. Should we fear sugar?

Horses evolved to consume grass, which produces sucrose as it primary fuel source. Hence they are actually well adapted to digesting and utilising some sugar in their diet. Therefore in healthy, exercised horses in ideal body condition, sugar shouldn’t cause a problem. However, there are undoubtedly some horses and ponies that do need a low sugar diet, particularly those prone to laminitis. When this is the case, understanding rather than fearing sugar holds the key to successfully managing the diet. Although, it is wise to give consideration to what goes into your horse’s feed bowl when it comes to sugar.

View H&H’s 16-page winter feeding guide, brought to you in association with Spillers

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Dodson & Horrell’s Nutritional Team Manager Dr Chloe Casalis de Pury, explains why feeding fibre is so important for our horses and ponies.

The diet of horses and ponies in a lower level of work during the summer is made up of almost entirely forage (grass and hay). Forage not only contributes to the overall energy and nutrient content of a horse’s ration, but also helps to maintain digestive health through a physical effect on the movement of food through the gut, retention of fluid in the digestive tract and a protective effect on the microbial population within the hindgut.

It can be difficult to know how to feed your horse during winter to maintain condition and ensure that they are receiving optimum fibre levels when the cold, wet nights can limit opportunities for riding and there is less grass available when they are turned out. If your horse needs a little more than a balancer during the winter months, Dodson & Horrell High Fibre Mix and High Fibre Nuts are a fabulous choice when fed alongside at least 2% of your horse’s bodyweight in forage (hay or haylage).

Horses are trickle feeders and are therefore designed to constantly have fibre moving through the gut, with it being fermented in the hindgut by a population of microflora. During periods of change, such as the reduction in grass availability and a change of diet, these microflora can be disturbed, reducing the pH within the hindgut. Feeding fibre helps to re-establish the balance within the gut.

When the amount of time your horse spends in the stable increases, so does the risk for digestive disturbances such as colic, so feeding plenty of fibre is essential as this helps to maintain natural gut movement. Our High Fibre feeds are low in cereals therefore provide energy (calories) from fibre, a slow-release energy source digested in the hindgut, which may help to maintain a calm, even temperament during winter stabling and inconsistent workload. As well as providing a slow-release energy source, a by-product of fibre digestion in the hindgut is heat, helping keep your horse warm through the coming winter.

High Fibre MixHigh Fibre Mix and High Fibre Nuts are fully balanced, using high specification vitamins and minerals to provide optimum micronutrient levels to provide support for your horse’s general health, plus our High Fibre Mix contains extra Biotin to support hoof growth and condition.

For those horses and ponies that need a small amount of extra calories, our High Fibre feeds have a low calorie level of 9.5MJ/kg to support weight maintenance and workload without providing excessive calories that may lead to weight gain while activity levels are lower. However this does not mean that the feed is not tasty! Both High Fibre Nuts and High Fibre Mix are very palatable, tempting even the fussiest of eaters.

Horses only have a stomach the size of a rugby ball meaning they are not designed to have large meals in the day as this will accelerate the passage of digesta through the gut. As it is not as easy to feed three or four small meals in the day at winter, our High Fibre feeds are ideal as they have a low intake rate of 300g per 100kg bodyweight e.g. a 500kg horse requires 1.5kg per day to meet micronutrient requirements.

High Fibre Nuts

High Fibre Nuts are an incredibly versatile product to have in the feed room as they can be used for a variety of situations. We do not use any binders in our cubes, therefore they are easily broken down for those with impaired dentition and only require a little water to form a palatable mash, no need to soak! This feature is why High Fibre Nuts are a part of our forage replacer diet alongside KwikBeet and Alfalfa, which is designed for senior horses that can no longer chew forage.

As they contain low levels of starch and sugar, High Fibre Nuts are suitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis that may need additional calories to support weight. If you have a horse with laminitis that is a good doer and are concerned about their winter diet, please call one of our nutritional advisors on 0845 345 2627.

It is important to remember that any change to a horse’s diet must be made gradually, over the space of seven to 10 days so not to cause excessive disturbance to gut microflora.

If you have any questions regarding your horse’s diet please do not hesitate to call our Nutritional Advisors on 0845 345 2627. Our team are on hand to answer your questions and help guide you through whatever concerns you might have. They take more than 8,500 calls a year, plus emails and facebook messages and aim to give you the very best advice.

If you have contacted us and found our advice helpful, please click on the link below to vote for the D&H nutritional team in the Haygain Nutritional Helpline of the Year 2016 awards.

Eventing is always such an up and down sport. I was flying high after a fantastic test and very excited to tackle a very strong CCI4* track. Having walked the course (see video above), the distances were long and I was sure that Bozzie (Cornacrew) would add an extra stride in every one of them.

I took him for a hack on Saturday morning with Emma Hyslop and he was unbelievably excited. I did my final course walk with Laurence [Hunt] before getting everything ready with my good friend Vic (who came to support this weekend) for the off.

Bozzie jumped out of the start box with his usual vigour. He cruised over the first few big fences, making them feel really easy. I rode for an extra stride at six and it came up perfectly for him. Then he whizzed down to the first water where we added a stride in each distance, but he made it feel as though that’s how it was designed to be jumped!

He was flying and really jumping as we came into the seventh minute of the course. I looked at my watch and we were around five seconds behind the clock. Things were looking good!

We added another stride at a double of angled brushes, but again he made it feel easy. He was so confident. He was feeling like he could take on anything, but as I approached the five bar gate at 18 I could feel him suddenly tire. It was quite hot and he was sweating well.

We approached the very difficult second water and I set him up for the direct route. He jumped through, but with a lot of encouragement from me. He bust a gut for me staying on his line like the pro that he is. We landed, exited the water and I patted him. We still had a long way to go – should I pull him up?

I thought maybe he would get a second wind and as the next minute was solely galloping with one relatively straightforward fence, we carried on. Approaching the next fence, he cocked his jaw and ran past it. In a split second I raised my hand to signify retirement – my boy had made the call for me.

He was very hot and after asking in my best french for some water for my horse, the crowd kindly provided me with some. I got him back to the stables and he recovered pretty quickly.

He’s absolutely fine this morning. I can tell he’s very happy as he’s rolling well!

I absolutely adore Cornacrew, he is the most fantastic horse and I feel so honoured to have him in my life. The result here doesn’t reflect how hard he tried and how deep he dug. He’s still an out and out winner in my eyes!

Grievesy

France’s Astier Nicolas riding Piaf De B’Neville (pictured above) showjumped clear this afternoon (25 October) to claim his first CCI4* title at Pau.

His victory was met with a roaring seal of approval from the full grandstand, who have not seen a home rider take this title since Nicolas Touzaint in 2007.

“It feels so good to do this in France,” said Astier. “Winning my first four-star is a moment I have waited for a long time.”

Michael Jung was the overnight leader, but Halunke FBW was withdrawn from the holding box at this morning’s final horse inspection. Consequently his second ride, Fischerrocana FST, upgraded to the top spot but she kicked out a showjump and finished second.

“I am very happy with her,” said Michael of his 2015 Kentucky CCI4* champion. “It was unlucky to have a pole but she gave me a good feeling.”

A clear round aboard Wesko, who won Luhmuhlen CCI4* last year, moved Tim Price into third.

“It’s great for Wesko to keep coming out and remaining consistent, especially the year before an Olympics,” said Tim.

Emily King and Brookleigh (pictured below) had one showjump down to finish fourth at their first CCI4*.

“It’s been her dream to ride at four-star ever since she knew the level existed,” said Emily’s mother Mary, who watched nervously from the sidelines before punching the air in delight.

From the 33 starters there were seven clear rounds. Two of these came from Frenchman Karim Florent Laghouag, who piloted Entebbe De Hus into fifth and Punch De L’Esques into seventh.

Sixth was Germany’s Claas Romeike, son of 2008 Olympic champion Hinrich, riding Cato 60.

Britain’s Sarah Bullimore finished eighth riding Valentino V, while a clear round from Ireland’s Clare Abbott saw her climb seven places up the leaderboard to ninth.

Mark Todd and NZB Campino rounded off the top 10.

There was disappointment for several riders. Tim Lips and Concrex Bayro’s 12 faults dropped them from sixth to 11^th, while Indian Mill kicked out six fences to plummet 10 places to 17^th.

FRH Butts Avedon hit four showjumps and slipped to 12^th with Germany’s Andrea Dibowski.

Don’t miss the full Pau report in next week’s issue of Horse & Hound, on sale 29 October.

Pau — final top 10:

1, Piaf De B’Neville (Astier Nicolas, FRA) 38.5

2, Fischerrocana FST (Michael Jung, GER) 39.4

3, Wesko (Tim Price, NZL) 40

4, Brookleigh (Emily King, GBR) 42.3

5, Entebbe De Hus (Karim Florent Laghoua, FRA) 42.6

6, Cato 60 (Claas Romeike, GER) 47.3

7, Punch De L’Esques (Karim Florent Laghoua, FRA) 49.3

8, Valentino V (Sarah Bullimore, GBR) 49.8

9, Euro Prince (Clare Abbott, IRL) 50.7

10, NZB Campino (Mark Todd, NZL) 51.3

View the results in full here.

Most of us have to work to support our expensive horsey habit, which means we have to move among normal people like, well, normal people. But, like David Attenborough filming a documentary about rare orangutans, if you know what to look for, you can always spot a rider in the city. Here’s how…

1. They’ve got hat hair. Their hair is unnaturally flat, with seemingly random kinks in it. Forget tongs – as if anyone would actually choose to recreate this look anyway – only a riding helmet can do this.

2. They’re wearing riding boots. No, not this season’s version from Next, as recommended by Mary Portas. Those are actual Ariat Bromonts.

3. They’re driving a Chelsea Tractor. But it has a towbar, and mud on it. And they actually seem to know how to reverse it.

4. There’s hay on their briefcase. And their trousers. And shirt. And hair.

Continued below…

17 signs you’re a horse addict

• 8 October, 2014 - 11:55

Might as well face it, you're addicted to horses. If perusing the H&H website wasn't enough of a giveaway, here More…

5. They have freakishly well-developed biceps. Could be gym-honed, but you can recognise hay bale-toned arms when you see them.

6. They click their tongue impatiently when there’s a delay on the Underground.

7. They mutter, ‘Come on! Walk on!’ when there’s a queue on the tube escalator.

8. Their ring tone is a horse neighing. It really freaks people out on the night bus.

9. Are those skinny jeans, or denim jods? It’s actually really hard to tell. They look good though!

10. That’s definitely a polo shirt under that jacket, too.

11. You recognise that perfume – and Chanel No. 5 it isn’t. That’s the familiar scent of ‘Eau de Cheval.’

12. They’re disappointed by black cab drivers. “You know, these things were pulled by horses, back in the day,” they say wistfully.

13. Their reading material for the commute is by Dick Francis. Or Jilly Cooper.

14. They’re entering competitions via their mobile while sitting on the bus. Well, it’s a good a time as any.

15. There’s a bit poking out of their handbag. True, they could have stopped off at one of the Soho fetish shops, but that really does look like a Kimblewick to you.

16. They’re reading Horse & Hound on the tube. ‘Nuff said.

Top British event rider WIlliam Fox-Pitt has “made progress” and is now conscious in hospital.

The Olympic eventer has been in hospital in France since Saturday 17 October, when he fell at Le Lion d’Angers.

He suffered a head trauma in the fall.

“Today (Monday 26 October) William is conscious, breathing on his own and communicating with his family and doctors, however he is still very ill,” read a statement from British Eventing.

“He and his family are very grateful for all the support and messages, it is hugely appreciated. Further progress is going to take time.”

His wife, Channel 4 Racing presenter Alice Plunkett, flew to France last week to be with him.

William fell at fence 20, an owl hole, on the cross-country with Reinstated.

The pair were competing in the seven-year-old CCI2* class at the FEI/WBFSH world championships for young eventing horses.

The horse, whom William first competed in May 2014 at Chatsworth, was not injured in the fall.

The course was held for more than an hour while William received medical assistance before being transferred to Angers hospital.

He had been kept sedated for the past week, with the 46-year-old remaining under observation.

Willliam, who currently stands at number three in the world eventing rankings, had already completed the course successfully on his first ride, The Soapdodger.

His last win was at the CIC3* at Hartpury in August with Bay My Hero.

Fancy a horsey mini-break this autumn? Whether you want to escape the wind and cold for sunnier climes, or enjoy breathtaking UK hacks through falling red leaves, there's a horsey holiday that will take your fancy

Hacking heaven

If the British countryside in autumn leaves you tingly, or you don’t have the time or inclination to venture abroad, Equestrian Escapes is running a special offer on their Wiltshire package. Ride through stunning red beech avenues, past ancient Saxon burial mounds, and watch the deer grazing in the park as you hack through Cranbourne Chase, the former home of Guy Richie and Madonna. It’s also the former hunting estate of King John (yes, he of Robin Hood fame), and with an excellent local pub that allows you to tie up outside, offers the perfect relaxing horsey break. You can stay in a beautiful estate cottage or a cosy log cabin, and the package for two nights full board accommodation plus seven hours of riding is just £295pp. There is a single room supplement of £15 per night for solo travellers.
www.equestrian-escapes.com

Go Western

Fancy trying out some cowboy/girl skills — but don’t want to fly all the way to the USA? How about Hungary instead? Kiskunsagi Ranch specialises in breeding and training Appaloosas and Quarter Horses, so you can learn or hone Western skills on a real Western horse, with the help of expert staff. With 60 acres of their own, and situated within a beautiful national park, there’s plenty of great hacking and lovely long canters available. If it rains, you’re sorted because they have an enormous indoor arena — not to mention an indoor jacuzzi, several different types of sauna, a cosy indoor bar and a masseuse on site, for some off-horse pick-me-ups. Available through Far & Ride, it costs £299 per person for the Western weekend from 1November to the end of the year, which includes three nights of twin/double room accommodation (no single supplement for single travellers willing to share), all meals, bottled water and approximately 10 hours riding. Flights are not included, but there are lots of cheap flights to Budapest.
www.farandride.com

Continued below…

Fancy a change? Try 7 unexpected riding holiday destinations

• 1 July, 2015 - 12:05

If hacking through the Welsh hills or donning a cowboy hat for a ranch holiday isn't go to cut it More…

A Portuguese horse fair

Home to some of Portugal’s most famous stud farms, Golega is known as the ‘Capital of Horses,’ and for 10 days in November, the town hosts the world famous Golega Horse Fair. Spend your days watching top competition in all disciplines, or wander round the town filled with horses and riders in traditional Portugese riding dress. It’s said that everyone in Portugal with a horse brings it here for the festival. In The Saddle is offering a special overnight stay on 9-10 November. The package includes transfers from Alcainça to Golegã, one night’s stay in a hotel with breakfast (double room), transfers to and from the Horse Fair, a visit to meet a Lusitano breeder, and guide assistance. It costs £284 based on two people sharing.
www.inthesaddle.com

Dressage divas ahoy

If you’d like to sharpen up your dressage skills while enjoying a relaxing break in some spectacular countryside, In The Saddle also offers a two night/three day break to Monte Velho Stud Farm in the Alentejo, Portugal. Run by Diogo Lima Mayer, an award-winning breeder of Lusitanos, many of which have gone on to perform outstandingly in dressage in Portugal and the rest of Europe, this holiday offers the opportunity to observe the breeding and training programme of competition horses, and to experience some top level dressage training. An understanding of lateral movements as well as basic walk, trot, canter will help you get the most from your tuition. Or you can simply enjoy trail rides through beautiful, tranquil countryside, and relax by watching the instructors training the competition horses. The climate is pretty good too and you should catch a few rays. From £360 per person for full board.
www.inthesaddle.com

Go for a gallop

Squeeze in a long, gorgeous gallop down the beach by taking a trip to Catalonia, Spain, courtesy of Unicorn Trails. Their ‘Catalan Two Beach’ holiday offers five nights, four days and three days of riding — taking in, as the name pretty much gives away, two beaches. You need to be a competent rider, as you’ll be spending four to six hours in the saddle each day, riding across varied terrain, from the snow-capped Pyrenees to glassy lagoons to ancient hilltop villages, returning to the guesthouse each evening for dinner and a well-deserved sleep. It’s low season now, and prices start at £439 per person, for accommodation, riding, meals — and wine. Flights and transfers from Barcelona/Girona are not included.
www.unicorntrails.com

Hunting in Ireland

Ireland is famous — or perhaps infamous — for the fearlessness of its riders out hunting, and Zara’s Planet offers you the chance to experience its legendary hunting country for yourself. Head over to County Galway for two meets in one weekend, with the Roscommon and the Ormond. You’ll find dry stone walls, ditches and hedges to jump. On the first day, you will be matched to the right horse (all Irish hunters from reputable yards) and you can also try your hand at whipping-in. There are lots of opportunities for socialising, too. Needless to say, this four night break is not for the faint-hearted; you’ll need a secure seat and it’s recommended for intermediate to advanced riders only. Prices from £495 per person including B&B and hirelings.
www.zarasplanet.com