Saturday, August 28, 2010
New Zealand: Trio aiming to go the full distance
By David Leggat
5:30 AM Saturday Aug 28, 2010
Jenny Chandler had pottered about for years in the usual equestrian pursuits. Some eventing here, a bit of showjumping there, going back to getting her first pony at 10.
She'd heard about endurance riding but figured she wouldn't have the time to take it seriously. But on Tuesday she and teammates Debby Worsfold and Alison Higgins are off to Kentucky as New Zealand's team for the 160km endurance race at the world equestrian games.
"I've now discovered the riding I most enjoy doing - hacking down the road, which used to be called skiving because you should be doing more important things - is called training," she quipped. At the Masters Games in Hamilton six years ago, Chandler, who farms near Pirongia, close to Te Awamutu, and works at Waikato University's animal psychology lab, was encouraged to enter and had a standardbred who wasn't much good for anything else.
"So I took him in. It was 20km, which seemed an awfully long way. We won it and I was hooked." Chandler bought her world games mount, Lace and Fineness, in December 2005...
Read more here:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10669396
China International Horseracing Meeting Kicks off in NW China
2010-08-28
China international horseracing meeting kicked off in Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Saturday, which attracted nearly 100 equestrian lovers from home and abroad with over 120 quality horses.
The meeting encompasses three racing disciplines, including International Equestrian Federation (FEI) 80km-endurance, speed and horse-walking races.
During the competition event, other equestrian shows will be staged, including dressage, jumping and riding-shooting.
The meeting was held along the Great Wall and Beacon Tower in Yinchuan, which is a great appeal especially to foreign equestrian lovers.
The meeting is held to promote the exchange between Chinese and foreign equestrian lovers and lead more people to approach the healthy and low-carbon exercising choices, said the organizers.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Compiegne 2010 Young Endurance Horse Championship
Report by Leonard Liesens, Endurance-belgium.com
Compiegne was celebrating his ten years birthday. With a mixed feeling. Nothing has changed in terms of organization (still as good as usual), as far as the venue in concerned (exceptional place, good accommodation, catering perfect and very good weather). The course was very good. It has rained some days before making the going excellent. Some hills have been added to the circuit of last year, but without the big hills that made Compiegne famous ( The Beaux Monts ascent, the Mont St Pierre, the technical parts of the first loop heading to the river).
The weather was good. We had plenty of sunshine, but also a high level of humidity especially in the forest. Most of the Compiegne trails are in the forest.
Unfortunately, the major sponsor didn't renew his support to the organization. A big loss for Compiegne, which forced the organizers to review the whole program. Was that linked wit the forfeit of the main sponsor or not, but one could hardly see any horse broker on the venue. While several dozens of horses joined the Gulf stables during the previous years competitions, this time, we didn't hear about financial transactions...
More story and photos at
http://www.endurance.net/international/France/2010Compiegne/
and
http://www.endurance-belgium.com/navigation/index.htm
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
British Endurance Elite Squad 2010
The following horses and riders are the 5 team members that have been selected to represent Team GBR at the forthcoming World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in September 2010.
BECCY BROUGHTON
Beccy Broughton-Booker, UKCC Coach and Equine Sports Massage Therapist began riding in 1981- at 2 years old! She was just 5 years old at her first competitive 25 mile CTR - 26yrs ago - 1986 at Southwell Racecourse on a pony called Oatie Crunch owned by Mrs Janet Denny.
Beccy has competed in over 20 International Rides, including at the European Championships 2001 finishing a very creditable 7th, at WEG 2002 to finish 18th, and in the Dukeries Bahrain Cup 2010 where she came 1st . In 2001 she was the top British based rider in the World FEI rankings. In 2002 she was placed 36th in the FEI World Rankings and her stallion Murmansk was placed 4th in the FEI World Rankings for competing stallions. She was been chosen to represent GB as an U21 and on the senior team.
Beccy’s crew are Rachel Stendall, husband Garry Booker and father Tim Broughton. Beccy names Marcy Pavord as the most influential person in her life, saying “I want to achieve what she did not have time to do.” However, Beccy adds it is her father she most looks up to – “for too many reasons.”
As well as wanting to be the best that she can be, encouraging the growth of the discipline and wanting a World and Olympic Medal, Beccy’s ambitions also include “to coach riders at all levels sharing my experiences and knowledge to improve horse and rider combinations to reach their goals.” For those of us who know Beccy it is no surprise that hobbies outside of horses include “Fast cars, fast skis and fast everything really!”
Beccy’s horses are Java Sunlight, a 13yo chestnut Arab mare (Dhruv/Sunlit Wings) who came 2nd at Haywood Oaks 160 FEI3*. Beccy also has Tawmarsh Muharram, a 10yo chestnut Arab gelding (Murmansk/Khashala) who came 1st in the Bahrain Dukeries Cup 160FEI3* 2010. This horse is the son of Beccy’s previous team horse Murmansk, who took her to many of her achievements so far. Beccy says “His Dad pep talks him every day!”
ROZ CLAPP
Ros Clapp, previous team member at Assissi 2009 and Compeigne 2005, took up riding in 1980 and has been competing in Endurance since 2000. Ros chose Endurance “through my Mum who was on the British team”, and her best result to date was to finish Assissi riding Nazeeka.
Nazeeka is an 11yo grey Anglo Arab mare (Prince Vandezee/Namibia), whom Ros has owned for 5 years. Nazeeka was also a champion hack before starting Endurance so obviously a very talented horse. In fact, Ros’s top tip for success in Endurance is that you need “a good horse”.
Ros’s crew include John Tydesley, John and Jane Hudson and Rob Clapp.
JANICE COCKLEY-ADAMS
Janice Cockley-Adams is a European Strategic Sourcing Manager, who took up riding 26 years ago – as soon as she started earning!
Janice says “I trained as a Zoologist and was a competitive athlete from age of 11. The combination of physiology, psychology, nutrition, training and competition together with the close bond between horse and rider ticked all my boxes. I did my first ride in 1988 and was hooked. Over the years I have been fortunate to have great moments on 9 different horses including winning the Scottish Open Championship (160km) and the Spirit of Sherwood multi-day 150 miles (240km).”
Highlights with the two horses Janice has on the elite squad for WEG include 6th FEI 120km Dukeries, May 2010 (first European to finish,)2nd FEI 160km Haywood Oaks, Apr 2010 (her debut 160km) and 7th FEI 130km Monpazier, France, Sept 2009 (first Briton to finish) on Roxane du Bout du Monde. Khadidja du Pont has also had many fantastic results including 4th FEI 120km Euston Park, August 2009 (first European to finish), 2nd FEI 120km Dukeries, May 2008 & best condition award (first European to finish), and 23rd (first Briton and 4th European) in the inaugural running of the FEI 160km Shk Mohammed Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, Dubai, Jan 2008 (The “richest endurance ride in the world.”) Janice was ranked 7th in FEI World Ranking 2007 (Rider/Horse Combination). She was also the Winner of the British FEI Championship 2007, Winner of the Senior Grand Prix Trophy 2007 (Most points in Endurance Rides (i.e. races) by a British rider) and Winner 160km Dukeries, May 2007 (her debut 160km).
Janice’s ambitions within Endurance are to represent GBR and to continue to train and ride at international level for many more years to come. Her crew include Janine Wade, Sashi Davies and husband Iain Cockley-Adams.
Janice’s daily regime is certainly tough. She states “I typically work around 10 hours a day which can include late evenings too for calls to colleagues in the USA, so the horses fit around this – riding before and/or after work. I am usually up and out for 5 am daily and pleased to finish before 7.30pm. When travelling abroad for work I try to minimise overnight stays whenever I can. This means very long days if I have meetings in Europe (leave home at 4.30am and back 11.00pm) but it fits in better with managing the horses. When I am away on business my husband rides the horses. When I’m not competing, the weekends are dominated by long rides, sessions on the gallops and catching up with jobs around the house and land.”
Janice’s top tips for success in Endurance are discipline; hard work; planning; diary notes and a holistic approach – physical, mental and environmental. “You need to understand each horse and recognise when it has reached its potential - not all horses are good at endurance, some actually like jumping or excel at dressage etc.”
We asked Janice what her most memorable riding story was...
“I guess the first time I rode Khadidja in a Race ride in France. After only riding her for an hour, I agreed to buy her 2 months before I did the 200km 2 Jours Montcuq ride where I first took ownership of her. Half way round on the first day I leant over to straighten my stirrup and she bucked me off and ran off down the trail. At that moment I saw my life savings running away and I got up and sprinted uphill for 2 km before finally catching up with her. Her seller had told me no sudden movements as she was hyper sensitive but I guess I forgot until I was sprinting after her! My pride was a bit hurt that day but nothing else. However we went on to the second day and had a very successful and safe 10th place which considering I was only looking to complete before the long journey back to the UK and I didn’t really know her I was very pleased. It was the start of a great relationship and one in which she is now very much my girl.”
CHRISTINE YEOMAN
Christine Yeoman has an impressive list of previous team selections including2003 FEI European Endurance Championships, Ireland, 2006 World Equestrian Games, Aachen, 2007 FEI European Endurance Championships, Portugal, 2008 FEI World Endurance Championships, Malaysia and 2009 FEI European Endurance Championships, Assisi, Italy where she was selected but couldn't go!
Chris has been riding since she was a child but gave up as teenager then started again as adult, and has now been competing in Endurance for approximately 12 years. Her best results to date include 17th and top British rider in Aachen on LM Taquillero, 160km win on LM Taquillero and fastest speed on 160km in UK 2009, 120km win in Belgium, 160 Km win on LM Midday, 160 km win on Farouk de Lozelle, 160 km qualification for Kentucky on home bred mare, Forest and her 120km win in France on Diyla
Chris’s ambitions are “to compete in a championship and win a medal” and her crew include husband John Yeoman, farrier Nigel Perrott, Michelle Macleod, Lisa Davenport, Nikki Malcolm and Olwen Bryer. Chris says that husband John is the most influential person in her life, “Without his support I would not be where I am now. I trust his judgement on race day to make sure all at base is taken care of, so that when I come into a vet hold any information I need is correct “
Chris’s top tip for success in Endurance is “Fitness of not only horse but also the rider is essential.” Chris says her most memorable Endurance story was not at a top level event, but “doing my first 80km ride at Cirencester to achieve advanced status - it poured with rain all day! And my first race ride at Ludlow in the blazing sun which I won. That was the start to my competitive career.”
Chris has two horses qualified for WEG: LM MIDDAY, an 11yo grey Arab mare whom Chris has owned for 5 years, and has consistently performed well, including winning Dukeries 2009 160km, 2nd in France 130km and being on the British Team for 2008 FEI World Endurance Championships, Malaysia.
The second horse is CJ'S GAI FOREST, a 10 yo homebred chestnut Arab mare (Ganemede/Gold Sahri) who’s results include 1st 120km, 6th 160km 2009 and 2nd 160km 2010.
DAVID YEOMAN
David Yeoman rode a lot as a child up to 21 yo, including Polo, Point to Point, Eventing, Pony Club, but then had to go to work for 20 years. David has been competing in Endurance since 2005 and chose this sport because “my Sister-in-Law got me re-involved with riding in 2004/05, and I just took to endurance like a duck to water!” Needless to say the Sister-In-Law is Christine Yeoman!
David’s first Endurance ride was at Forest of Dean 42KM in 2005 and after successfully building up his experience every year, David has had a fantastic year already in 2010. His best results to date are 1st Cirencester 164KM FEI ***, 2nd Haywood Oaks 120KM FEI** both in 2010, and 1st Euston Park 121KM FEI** in 2009, all on Haszdr. David has also clocked up a fair few Golden Horseshoe miles over the years on Eleazar De Landas, achieving Gold at Golden Horseshoe in 2006 and 2008 , and Silver in 2007. David rode on the Development Squad Team last year at Mont Le Soie , Belgium , FEI** 120 km.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Australia: Local Endurance Horse ride a huge success
24 Aug, 2010 09:03 AM
A weekend of spectacular weather conditions saw 83 riders participate in the Upper Corindi Endurance Horse ride.
After a nine year absence, the Upper Corindi (the old Bushman’s ride) returned to the ride calendar and the crew hosted a fantastic Endurance ride.
Horse enthusiast came from as far as Rockhampton to ride in what has been described as a challenging 80 kilometre endurance track, consisting of some tough hills and some slippery conditions, through private property and state forest and with some glorious views back to the Pacific Ocean.
Sharon Foster from Bellingen Saddlery and Pet Supplies said the weekend ran smoothly and with the addition of a 21 kilometre introductory ride on the Saturday for people who have never tried endurance riding and wanted to give it a go, was very successful with the majority of the 23 riders being local riders from the Bellingen and Grafton area.
The 80 kilometre ride started at 5am with 30 horses riding into the crisp frosty Sunday morning followed by the 40 kilometre riders starting at daylight. Sharon says it’s a huge team effort to organise such an event and the preparations are on going all year round with tracks to be cleared and coloured markers being place out in the bush every kilometre or so.
Sharon and her husband Chris Schofield are planning to host a ride in Bellingen possible next year which will be great for the area.
Their biggest hurdle is finding a suitable ride base that’s out of the town centre and nearest to the state forest tracks, big enough for up to 100 horse floats and campers and without having to ride on busy tar roads. It’s a big job but where keen to have it happen.
full article at http://www.bellingencourier.com.au/news/local/sport/general/local-endurance-horse-ride-a-huge-success/1921545.aspx
FEI WORLD YOUNG ENDURANCE HORSE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010 - COMPIEGNE
at the 2010 FEI World Young Endurance Horse Championships in
Compiegne, France riding Padichah du Paon. Photo Credit: Gilly Wheeler.
23 Aug 2010
FRENCH DOMINATE PODIUM AT FEI WORLD YOUNG ENDURANCE HORSE CHAMPIONSHIPS
100th Anniversary of Compiègne celebrated in style
French riders were in sparkling form when taking all three medals in the Eight Year Old division, while only Spain's Monica Comas Molist stopped them from doing the same in the battle for the Seven-Year-Old honours at the FEI World Young Endurance Horse Championships at Compiegne, France. Cecile Totain, Laetitia Goncalves and Roman Lafaure secured a clean sweep for the host nation in the senior 160kms section for the eight-year-olds, while the Spaniard separated gold medallist Melody Thoelissat and Clementine Manoha as the home runners also flexed their muscle in the seven-year-old class run over 130kms..
This prestigious fixture, filled with the oysters-and-champagne lifestyle that has long been associated with this particular endurance venue, might be considered a "jolly" affair by some, but that couldn’t be further from the reality. Compiègne is a tough, competitive track requiring skilled and tactical riding and, of course, a talented horse. It is well-recognised as one of the toughest courses on the International circuit but, some years ago, the course was modified and the competition was run over flatter terrain with speed being the main focus. Last year the track was modified again, reintroducing more technical aspects of the sport.
This FEI World Championships attracts the cream of the crop of young endurance horses and often those that will be a force to be reckoned with in the future. The 2010 event was no exception, with representatives across the two categories from Sweden, Belgium, Spain, USA, Argentina, Qatar, Portugal, Slovakia, Germany, Great Britain, Brazil, the Netherlands and of course, a strong contingent from the home nation of France.
IDEAL TRACK CONDITIONS
The area had plenty of rain in the run-up to the event providing ideal track conditions. However the day of the event dawned hot and humid and temperatures remained high during the day, something that would become evident in the performance of those horses that weren’t paced with the extreme weather conditions in mind.
The seven- year-old category was run over 130kms in four stages and had a total of 39 entries. There were plenty of well-known endurance names on the start-list, as is always expected at this popular event. First to vet-in at Vet Gate 1 was French rider Pierre Michel Dolay with his mount Khersiko du Courtisot but, as always, the fight was on and just two minutes behind arrived former World Champion Miguel Vila Ubach (ESP) with horse Balkanny who averaged just over 19.7kph. Two combinations failed to qualify at Vet Gate 1, namely Sabrina Arnold (GER), 2009 bronze medal winner in the same event, and Mustak Khan Iliyas Khan (QAT).
As the day continued the temperatures continued to climb and it was easy to see the toll the heat was taking on the front runners. Dolay continued at a strong pace but had dropped to third by the second Vet Gate. Belgian entrant Jean Philippe Cohard had now moved into first with Hillkili de Prazila, but their attempt was to end at the next vet as the horse failed to qualify due to lameness.
SPEEDS
The speeds remained fairly constant throughout the day with the front runners travelling at just over 18kph. First over the line was 21-year-old Melody Theolissat (FRA) with her chestnut gelding Padichah du Paon, three minutes ahead of second-placed Monica Comas Molist from Spain riding the chestnut Arab mare Princesse de Campagne. Whilst these horses crossed the line ahead of the rest, it was clear to see that both were tired, reflecting the testing conditions of the day and the humidity in the forest. However, both were fully recovered by the time they were presented to the Veterinary Panel. Those that had paced themselves a little more cautiously arrived just over 20 minutes later, all looking fresh and well. Vying for the final podium position were two French riders, Clementine Manoha and Sonia Bourle, but the French-bred Arab mare Padisha la Majorie came across the line just three seconds ahead to claim the bronze medal for Manoha. This was the pair’s first attempt at this distance and also their first podium position. A total of 18 horses and riders successfully completed the 130kms, with Slovakian entrant Feras Boubol coming in over the line last, completing at a speed of just over 14.5kph.
The eight-year-old category was run over 160kms in five stages and had a total of 21 entries. Once again there were many well known names in the start-list including a couple of horses competing in this age category that had challenged for the seven-year-old title in 2009. The riders in the longer-distance category paced themselves well and were travelling generally at around 17kph, a rate that the horses seemed comfortable with.
This category had a higher completion rate of 62%, consolidating the argument that has come from France for a long time – riders take greater care when tackling the longer distances, thus providing a higher completion rate. They are also well known for their preference for five-stage 160km rides, rather than the more traditional six stages – once again the French say that riders take greater care under this format.
YOUNG TALENT
Highlighting once again the young talent currently on the scene in France, two of the three podium positions were taken by young riders. The winner, at just over 18.5kph following a fast final loop, was French rider Cecile Totain with Aljay des Agachiols. This was the pair’s second 160km completion of 2010 following their respectable placing in Dubai in January this year. Totain herself is no stranger to success having also topped the podium in Florac last year.
One minute later 21 year old Laetitia Goncalves and the bay gelding Dahmhorr del Tochas claimed runner-up spot. Another young rider to complete the podium was Roman Lafaure for France riding Orient al Cabiret, who stopped the clock just one minute further behind. This talented chestnut gelding had challenged for the seven-year-old title last year but unfortunately failed to qualify at VG4 – so this was the perfect podium finish for 2010.
FEI Director of Non-Olympic Sports, Ian Williams, commented that he was pleased with the conduct of the Championships. As always, the venue was top level with a professional organisation. He also highlighted just how well those horses that had been well-paced looked at the end of the competition, and that despite the hot and difficult conditions both Championships still fielded high completion rates, not an easy task at such a highly-competitive Championship.
Full results at http://www.compiegne-endurance.com/
New Zealand: Challenge is On!
13/08/2010 4:06:22 p.m.
Three women will fly the flag for New Zealand at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky next month.
Alison Higgins (Nelson) on Twynham El Omar, Debby Worsfold (Rangiora) on Northwinds Bradley McGregor (owned by Chris King) and Jenny Chandler (Te Awamutu) on Lace and Fineness will compete in the 160-kilometre endurance ride against the best in the world.
Higgins is the highest world ranked member of the team, coming in at number 10 – her best ranking was three earlier this year. She'll compete on her horse Twynham El Omar, who was one of a trio of horses she competed successfully on in New Zealand this past season.
The 41-year-old current South Island champ has only been involved in endurance since 2002, but has moved quickly through the ranks.
Twenty-four year old Worsfold has previously ridden in South Africa for New Zealand and has won the South Island Championships and finished second at National Championships.
Rounding out the team is 44-year-old Chandler, who while relatively new to the sport, has placed well in national competitions.
High performance leader Madonna Harris says the terrain in Kentucky will suit the Kiwi horses perfectly, but much hinges on solid riding skills and a strong team performance. However, with just three in the team, there is no luxury of a drop off score.
“Our riders know what speed they need to ride at to maintain that world class level,” says Harris, who has represented New Zealand in a raft of sports including cross country skiing, cycling, athletics, endurance riding and basketball.
“We have a great opportunity to do well there.”
The team gets on the road later this week before flying to Los Angeles on August 29th.
Endurance is one of eight equestrian disciplines taking part in the games – the others being showjumping, reining, dressage, eventing, para dressage, vaulting and driving.
The endurance team was the first of the New Zealand teams to be announced. Initially a five-strong team was named but two of those announced later withdrew.
The World Equestrian Games are held every four years. The first one was held in Stockholm in 1990, and this year's event in Kentucky, in the United States is expected to attract riders from more than 50 nations.
The estimated economic impact the 16-day event is expected to have on Kentucky is around $US 150 million. Organisers say they will sell 600,000 tickets. The games run from September 25 through to October 10 and are held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Riding championships at Perth Racecourse
Presided over by the Scottish Endurance Riding Club, the three-day championships were held at Perth Racecourse late last month.
The flagship event, a 160km race held over two days, drew Irish rider Helen MacFarland and her mount, J St Jake, back to defend their 2009 title.
Despite a determined challenge from Highlander Lorna Templeton, on Redarn Connon, the pair claimed top honours once more.
In the one-day 120km race, Jill Calder and Khebir Shahir fended-off strong opposition to get their hands on the coveted silverware, as well as the title for ‘best condition’.
Results are as follows: Highland Challenge trophy (two-day 160km) – Helen MacFarland on J St Jake.
120km trophy – Jill Calder on Khebir Shahir.
Pasquill Trophy (two-day 120km) – Tony Comerford on Aratahnes Shantiye.
Drummond Trophy (80km) – Karen Shotton on Patchwork Polly.
Hamilton Cup (60km) – Donna Hemmings and Cumbria Sameh.
Dinero Cup (two-day 80km) – Iain Paterson and Tannasg Primo Dancer.
Veteran Horse Trophy – General George (Sheila Ogilvie).
AC Burns Cup (two-day 60km) – Tracey Johnstone on Bonnie.
50k Novice Champion – Claire Lawrence and Aratahnes Zeus.
Alba Challenge Trophy (50km Open) – Libby Whittome and Imagine.
40km trophy – Kath McGhee on Foxghylls Folly.
30km Open – Barbara Jordan on Jamies-son, and Audrey Taylor on Redstarr (joint winners).
full article here http://www.perthshireadvertiser.co.uk/perthshire-sport/2010/08/20/riding-championships-at-perth-racecourse-73103-27098042/
Thursday, August 19, 2010
WEG: competitors coming from 58 countries
Entry list from 58 countries exceeds 900 riders, 1,300 horses
By Linda B. Blackford - lblackford@herald-leader.com
Australia, Canada, Germany and the United States will continue their fierce rivalry to be the tops in equestrian sport when they compete in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games starting Sept. 25.
Those four countries are the only ones that will have teams in all eight disciplines during the Games — reining, vaulting, dressage, eventing, show jumping, endurance, para dressage and driving. But 54 other countries will compete in one or more events through Oct. 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
Nineteen countries will compete in five or more disciplines, organizers said.
The list of nominated entries released Wednesday includes more than 900 athletes and 1,300 horses, although that number will decline when definite entries are submitted in mid-September. Many countries have nominated short lists but have not decided on their final team members.
The teams will showcase some of the finest individual riders in the world, including Edward Gal of the Netherlands, who has been breaking records with his dressage scores this summer aboard Moorlands Totilas; and McLain Ward on the chestnut mare Sapphire, the show-jumping combination from New York that has won most of the major jumping events around the world, including Olympic gold.
Mason Phelps, the owner of Phelps Media Group, an equine public relations firm that represents the United States Equestrian Team, said each of the Games' eight disciplines has its own stars and its own followers.
"Each discipline has its own idiosyncrasies," Phelps said. "The World Games don't do a medal count like the Olympics."
For example, the Americans have always been strong in show jumping, winning the team gold at the Athens and Beijing Olympics.
"They're a force to be reckoned with, and they have a very strong rivalry with the Germans," Phelps said. "But one can't forget the Dutch or the French; they've been very strong this summer" in competitions.
While some countries will be represented in force with entire teams, others have only one or two riders. India and Lithuania, for example, have nominated one rider each, in the 100-mile endurance race. Bahrain, Costa Rica and Guatemala are sending teams but only in endurance.
The Dutch Antilles will have just one competitor, in dressage. Fourteen countries will bring competitors for reining, the Western riding sport that has become hugely popular all over the world. Those include several European countries, several from South America, and a team from Israel.
Phelps said the hard-core fans will be in town for their discipline of choice.
"Of course, people here are rooting for the American teams, but the show-jumping crowd sticks to show jumping and so on," he said.
South American horses will begin to arrive at the Miami quarantine Sept. 1 and at the Kentucky Horse Park beginning Sept. 10, organizers said.
On Sept. 16, the first horses from Europe will at the temporary quarantine at the Northern Kentucky airport. They will stay at least 48 hours before being shipped to the Horse Park.
#
How entries stack up in each discipline
The number of countries that will have teams in each of the eight World Equestrian Games disciplines, along with the number of countries that will be represented by individuals only, plus the total number of athletes nominated to compete in each discipline:
Discipline Teams Ind. Ath.
Reining 18 4 85
Endurance 26 6 162
Dressage 18 6 98
Eventing 15 8 122
Jumping 32 10 201
Para dressage 19 6 107
Vaulting 13 19 190
Eventing 7 1 30
#
Participating nations
Fifty-eight countries will be represented at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Sept. 25 to Oct. 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park:
Argentina Italy
Australia Jordan
Austria Lithuania
Azerbaijan Luxembourg
Bahrain Mexico
Belgium Namibia
Bermuda Netherlands
Brazil NetherlandsCanada Antilles
Chile New Zealand
China Norway
Chinese Taipei Poland
Colombia Portugal
Costa Rica Qatar
Czech Republic Saudi Arabia
Denmark South Africa
Dominican Russia
Republic Singapore
Ecuador Switzerland
Egypt Slovakia
El Salvador Spain
Finland Sweden
France Syria
Great Britain Turkey
Germany United ArabGuatemala Emirates
Hungary Ukraine
India Uruguay
Ireland United States
Israel Venezuela
Japan
Read more: http://www.kentucky.com/2010/08/19/1397689/weg-competitors-coming-from-58.html#ixzz0x4xvx9A8
Frazee's Thistle Down Run draws 77 entries
by Dale Fett
Horse riders had great weather for the fourth annual Thistle Down Run endurance ride near Frazee Aug. 14-15.
The rainy weather Thursday and Friday made marking the trails a challenge, but Saturday and Sunday brought out the sun to keep spirits up. Low humidity, cooler temps, and some wind dried out the trail making it perfect for riders and horses alike.
Minnesota riders made up the bulk of entries with riders also from North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois.
Canadian Rachel Hill made the trek southward and Hatham Albarrak from Dubai rode his first ride in America. This has made Thistle Down Run a true international event.
The only local rider, Teresa Fett placed second both Saturday and Sunday in the 25-mile event riding a different horse each day. Hawley's mother/daughter team of Char Tuhy and Jordanne Bruns took first and second in Saturday's 50-mile event.
Dale and Teresa Fett, ride managers, were allowed to use the farm of Scott and Lisa Piche as event headquarters along with the property of Les, Pat and Ron Kertscher. Veterinarians were Dr. Randall Lindemann of Frazee and Dr. Travis Kuhlka from New Salem, N.D.
Like most events, local volunteers are a key ingredient to be successful. Thanks to the following: Sandy Noonan as assistant ride manager, vet scribes Robin Holmer and Clio Jepson with assistance by Jordan Dretsch, Donna Fett at registration, Orlynn Hanson was official timer, and Joyce Vogler kept everyone fed with a steady supply of food. Troubleshooters Dennis Fett, Trevor Fett and Vinton Vogler took care of miscellaneous details to keep the event running smoothly.
Henry Gruber from Saint Cloud was on hand and took over 500 photos for viewing. These photos plus the complete results can be found at www.mndra.com along with information for anyone interested in horse endurance riding.
[full article at http://www.frazeeforum.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=110&ArticleID=23580...]
NATRC: Island in the Sky ride brings 61 riders to Grand Mesa
According to Mike Mason, in spite of the very real potential for a torrential downpour, this year’s National American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) competitive trail ride on the Grand Mesa took place on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 7-8. With 61 people participating, the event was deemed a huge success.
Sponsored by the Women’s Surface Creek Saddle Club, the event has been dubbed the “Island in the Sky” ride (from the book “Island in the Sky” by Muriel Marshall, with her permission).
Mason also noted that the “Island in the Sky” ride takes place every other year, alternating with the Wet Mountain Ride, and that for this year’s event, Rich Garrett was the ride secretary, Judy Mason was ride chairman.
For her part, Judy said the ride could not be possible without the help of so many people, in particular: Carolynn Andersen, trail master, who marked and pre-rode 60 miles of trail (Andersen has been the trail master for the ride since its beginning in 2000); Ed Kehoe who cooked wonderful meals for the whole weekend; Rich Garrett who took all the entries and kept the paperwork straight; Lori Molitor, awards chairman and Secretary for the veterinarian judge; Kristie LaValley, secretary for the horsemanship judge; Dewitt Daggett, safety rider chairman; Ole Morgan, Sally Sutton, Cheri McFadden, Julleen Feazell, Judy Mason and Brandy Ferganchick who marked, timed and/or pre-rode the entire trail; Louan Lundberg, Jimmy LaValley, Greg Feazell, Weldy Feazell and Bill Sutton who helped everywhere; Mike Mason, communications and horse water person and general support; Melanie Son, pulse and respiration team captain; Frank St. Peter, Pattie Timmerwilke and Beverly Kolkman who helped with the cooking; Roy Garner, on-site farrier (much needed due to the mud and rocks); and the many saddle club members who baked cookies and cobblers for the meals and otherwise helped as needed.
NATRC had its inception in 1961 and has played an important part in making competitive trail riding one of the nation’s most popular horse activities. According to the NATRC website, competitive trail riding encourages a true partnership between horse and rider, educates horse and rider to help achieve higher skill levels, promotes the performance of horses over the long term, focuses on the health and safety of the horse, helps train competent, happy, and willing horses; promotes conditioning programs to help horses reach their potential, and fosters camaraderie in which riders consider themselves part of a family dedicated to their horses, trail riding, and spirited competition.
A competitive trail ride is similar to an endurance ride. Both cover a set, measured course, and a veterinary judge closely monitors the horses in both sports.
Endurance rides must be completed within a maximum time, and the winner is the horse that finishes first and is judged fit to continue. But in competitive trail riding, the horse and rider must finish the ride within a window of time, and speed is not a judging factor. Endurance rides are often longer than a competitive trail ride.
NATRC rides are two-day events covering 40 to 50 miles over difficult terrain. The horse and rider complete many judged obstacles along the route, which includes soundness and conditioning of the horse. Riders are divided into three classes: Novice, Competitive Pleasure and Open. The Open Class is for experienced competitors who ride between 50 and 60 miles, depending on terrain and weather, with additional obstacle to overcome.
Mason said this was the first full NATRC ride in the Rocky Mountain region in nearly two years. He said the wildflowers “were at their peak, the meadows were lush and the weather added a certain tension and magic as the sun played in and out of the clouds and fog meandered over the mountain peaks.”
Because of limited cell phone service, the group placed a radio repeater on top of the fire lookout, located on the summit of Leon Peak, in case of an emergency. The safety riders, many EMT qualified, had radios and could contact a person with phone service to call 911 if necessary.
In both endurance and competitive trail rides, horses and riders are judged on fitness; but in competitive trail riding events, horses are judged not only on which is the most fit but also on which horse has the best manners. In competitive trail rides, horses are checked at any point along the trail. In endurance rides, horses are checked by a veterinary judge at certain points and are judged as fit to continue. Another difference, according to the website is: “riders can proceed on foot in endurance riding, but for all forward motion in competitive trail riding, the rider must be mounted.”
For this year’s Island in the Sky ride, Gary Inman of Bennett took home the open class high-point award, and Brandy Ferganchick of Eckert, was runner-up.
Comments from some of the participants in this year’s ride included: “thank you and Judy for a fantastic weekend. The ride was beautiful and well planned,” and, “Thank you for all your help. My grandson asked when the next one was. He had a great time. Everyone was so kind and helpful to him. Thanks,” and “Many thanks to you and the crew for all the hard work you did to make sure this ride was safe and fun!!! The weather sure tested you, but it really was not bad in the long run. Just wanted to know you all are so appreciated!”
And, in spite of the “iffy” weather, the ride was a huge success and no one was injured.
For more information about competitive trail riding, call Judy Mason at 856-7022.
full article at
WEG: Cockley-Adams delighted to be on her way to the World Equestrian Games
SEVENHAMPTON endurance rider Janice Cockley-Adams will be taking on the world this year, when she represents Great Britain at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The Games take place at Kentucky in the USA (September 25 to October 10) and Cockley- Adams is one of five riders named on the GB endurance squad, with her 15hh chestnut mare Roxane du bout du Monde.
They will face a tough challenge, racing over a 160km course in what is one of the most demanding equestrian disciplines.
"This is a terrific honour and a real challenge," Cockley- Adams said. "Selection for the World Championships is the high point of my career so far and the result of years of hard work juggling a full time career with looking after, training and competing my horses."
Cockley-Adams proved just how tough she is back in June when she broke her collarbone, requiring an operation to repair the damage. She was on a plane to the USA for a business trip 36 hours later and back in the saddle in less than 14 days.
She started riding relatively late, in her early 20s, having been a county level athlete, and took part in her first endurance race ride in 1990. In 2007 Cockley-Adams won her first 160km title, at the renowned Dukeries ride, and was ranked seventh in the world.
Last year she was the best Brit in the inaugural FEI 160km Sheik Mohammed Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, the world's richest endurance ride held in Dubai, and in 2010 finished second in the Haywood Oaks 160km ride.
Joining her on the World team will be husband and wife Chris and David Yeomans, from Somerset, Ros Clapp and Beccy Broughton-Booker.
"We have a top class team of riders who have competed successfully in international rides many times," remarked Chef d'Equipe, Liz Finney. "Their horses have all proved that they are capable of the speeds necessary nowadays to win team medals and we will be competing in Kentucky with a real chance of a top team position."
The team has had to raise their own funds to make the trip – anyone looking to help their gallant cause can visit www.endurancegb.co.uk and follow the links to WEG Kentucky.
The World Equestrian Games is held every four years.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Mongol Derby: All riders home and dry after epic 1,000km ride
The last four riders crossed the finish line in Binder soum yesterday (Sunday) morning, thus bringing to a splendid conclusion the second Mongol Derby. We spoke to some of the riders from the finish camp after a day spent attending to weary bodies and stunted appetites. For some, the pride of completing such an epic adventure was palpable, while others were experiencing an acute desire to get back out on the steppe, finally still after eight gruelling days in the saddle and already missing the rhythm of the race.
Australian entrant and professional track rider Alisa Vermay showed the grit which comes with the territory of a life with horses. "I am so disappointed not to finish, but a day off recovering from heat stroke last week revealed to me that I had ridden through the pain barrier. My back and shoulders were very sore, and as a profgessional rider I just cannot risk further injury. The [Prometheus]medical team have been fantastic and I am feeling better already." Despite her early exit and bodily injury, she had plenty of fond memories to treasure; "I loved it. I absolutely loved it!"
Susi Saddler was one of two riders to take the chance and camp wild between the urtuus, and she described the experience as "amazing". Her partner for the night was Camilla Swift, and she described their encampment, in bivvy bags under a rock, their horses tethered and hobbled close at hand; "luckily we were on two lazy buggers and they just lay down and went to sleep next to us. We had an alarm set at 45 minute intervals to be on the safe side, but they didn't move a muscle! We had our saddles for pillows". Ah, the romance!
All of the riders praised the plucky and quirky Mongolian horses, who carried our brave riders across rivers, flood plains, up steep and stony passes, through desert. Susi remembered fondly a little stallion she partnered in the mid-stages; "he was so fit, he galloped for much of the leg and we swept across a wide open plain, with huge red crags either side". She admitted she would have loved to have taken him home. "He'd clean up on the endurance circuit".
...read more
Mongol Derby: Justin pips Saskia in a thrilling final dash for the line!
Eight days into the majestic Mongol Derby, US rider Justin Nelzen has crossed the finish line to claim victory from Saskia van Heeren of South Africa. After 1,000kms riding together the margin was narrow, just a few lengths, and both were jubilant after a final sprint for the line on a fine pair of horses.
Justin was hardly out of breath. Having initially made an assault on the finish line last night and been forced to turn back in a downpour of biblical proportions, they had a great run in for the final leg this morning. Said Justin, "We were out in front last night, decided to take it easy this morning, no need to push the horses, we could afford to just look after them. About 300m out, Saskia gave me the nod and we 'turned the horses loose' to see what they had, and raced to the end. The horses were great, they look great, Saskia and I feel great, the Mongolian people have been great!”
He was full of praise for his team-mate, a Derby veteran from the inaugural race in 2009. "It was a team effort, two horses travel faster than one. Saskia deserves this victory as much as I do, she's been with me the whole time. We've been riding 8 days and we've had a lot of fun. When times were tough we motivated each other- and told each other to 'suck it up' a few times! You have to be tough waking up with aches and pains and facing another 12 or 14 hours in the saddle. But it couldn't have been a better experience."
Justin found much to admire on his journey; "The scenery is absolutely beautiful. And the people- they take such good care of you. To get to know them- such gracious people, such wonderful horses- was the highlight."
When asked what his immediate plans were, he didn't hesitate; "I'll be taking a hot shower if I can find one!"
...read more
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Spain: Top Teams for Kentucky
Se aproxima cada vez más la cita de los VI Juegos Ecuestres Mundiales, a celebrar en Lexington, Kentucky, del 25 de Septiembre al 10 de octubre.
Se perfilan, por tanto, cada día en mayor medida las selecciones de jinetes y caballos que representarán a España en las cinco disciplinas con las que está previsto acudir a los Juegos (Raid, Reining, Paraecuestre, Doma y Saltos).
De acuerdo con ello, el Seleccionador Nacional de Raid, Quico Yebra, ha ofrecido ya la selección de caballos que acudirán a los Juegos Ecuestres Mundiales de Kentucky, cuya prueba de Raid tendrá lugar el 26 de Septiembre.
Estos caballos son Nobby (que podría ser montado por María Álvarez Pontón o Jaume Puntí), Cheveret RN (Silvia Yebra), Otel-lo (Jordi Arboix), Oliver TB (César Tasias) y Sankoc (Alex Luque); quedando como reserva para cubrir alguna posible incidencia Juma 50% (Jon Ander Martín).
Por lo que respecta al Reining, está previsto que nuestros representantes sean Guillermo Recio (Bonnies Smat Chic) y Francesc Cueto (A Real Hillbilly).
En Paraecuestre será Sonia Villalba (Uniamen) la que acuda como única representante española.
Increasingly approximates the appointment of the VI World Equestrian Games to be held in Lexington, Kentucky on September 25 to October 10.
Are outlined, so every day more selections of riders and horses that will represent Spain in the five disciplines with which it is due to attend the Games (Raid, Reining, Paraecuestre, dressage and jumping).
Accordingly, the National Coach of Raid, Quico Yebra, has offered and the selection of horses who will attend the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, where proof of Raid will take place on September 26.
These horses are Nobby (which could be mounted by Maria Alvarez Ponton or Jaume Puntí) Chevereto RN (Silvia Yebra) Otel-lo (Jordi Arboix), Oliver TB (César Tasias) and Sankoc (Alex Luque) remained as a reserve for Juma may cover some 50% incidence (Jon Ander Martin).
As regards the Reining, it is expected that our representatives are Guillermo Recio (Bonnies SMATA Chic) and Francesc Cueto (A Real Hillbilly).
In Paraecuestre is Sonia Villalba (Uniamen) that come as the only Spanish representative.
Monday, August 16, 2010
USEF Names Endurance Short List/Nominated Entry for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
Release: August 16 2010
Author: Joanie Morris
rider
Gladstone, NJ – The United States Equestrian Federation has named the following horse/rider combinations to the Short List/ Nominated Entry for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games according to the USEF Selection Procedure for Endurance. From this group the Definite Entry will be named to represent the United States in the Endurance Championships. The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games take place from September 25-October 10, 2010 in Lexington, Kentucky.
The following horse/rider combinations have been named to this
Short List/Nominated Entry in alphabetical order:
Melody Blittersdorf/50/Jeffersonville, VT/Synthetic/10/Arabian/Gelding/Rider
Lindsay Graham/28/Napa, CA/Monk/8/Arabian/Gelding/Christopher Martin
Ellen Rapp/28/La Motte, IA/Berjo Smokey/15/Arabian/Gelding/Jeremy Olson
Ellen Rapp/28/La Motte, IA/SA Belshazzar/13/Shagya-Arabian/Gelding/Jeremy Olson
Deborah Reich/50/Croton On Hudson, NY/DJB Juniper/8/Arabian/Mare/Rider
Heather Reynolds/33/Los Gatos, CA/Ssamiam/9/Arabian/Gelding/ Rider and Jeremy Reynolds
Jeremy Reynolds/30/Los Gatos, CA/Sir Smith/11/Arabian/Gelding/Rider and Heather Reynolds
Michele Roush/43/North San Juan, CA/Ivanhoes Debutante/11/ Anglo-Arabian/Mare/Spy Coast Farm, LLC
Margaret Sleeper/42/Frenchtown, NJ/Syrocco Harmony/8/Arabian/Rider
Margaret Sleeper/42/Frenchtown, NJ/Syrocco Reveille/10/Arabian/Rider
Ceci Butler Stasiuk/28/Humble, TX/DJB Cytron Kon JMF/15/Arabian/Darolyn Butler
Janice Worthington/70/Scales Mound/Golden Lightning/10/Arabian/Rider
For many of the riders who will represent the United States in the sport of endurance, the competition will be a family affair: Heather and Jeremy Reynolds are married and Jeremy’s identical twin brother, Tim, is his groom. Ellen Rapp’s groom is also her identical twin sister Eryn.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Mongolia: Justin pips Saskia in a thrilling final dash for the line!
"Team Juskia" re-enact their 'Man from Snowy River' fantasies and swoop down a valley for a glorious finish
Eight days into the majestic Mongol Derby, US rider Justin Nelzen has crossed the finish line to claim victory from Saskia van Heeren of South Africa. After 1,000kms riding together the margin was narrow, just a few lengths, and both were jubilant after a final sprint for the line on a fine pair of horses.
Justin was hardly out of breath. Having initially made an assault on the finish line last night and been forced to turn back in a downpour of biblical proportions, they had a great run in for the final leg this morning. Said Justin, "We were out in front last night, decided to take it easy this morning, no need to push the horses, we could afford to just look after them. About 300m out, Saskia gave me the nod and we 'turned the horses loose' to see what they had, and raced to the end. The horses were great, they look great, Saskia and I feel great, the Mongolian people have been great!”
He was full of praise for his team-mate, a Derby veteran from the inaugural race in 2009. "It was a team effort, two horses travel faster than one. Saskia deserves this victory as much as I do, she's been with me the whole time. We've been riding 8 days and we've had a lot of fun. When times were tough we motivated each other- and told each other to 'suck it up' a few times! You have to be tough waking up with aches and pains and facing another 12 or 14 hours in the saddle. But it couldn't have been a better experience."
Justin found much to admire on his journey; "The scenery is absolutely beautiful. And the people- they take such good care of you. To get to know them- such gracious people, such wonderful horses- was the highlight."
When asked what his immediate plans were, he didn't hesitate; "I'll be taking a hot shower if I can find one!"
Saskia was still buzzing from her final Derby dash, and in fact still mounted, when she spoke to us. A glutton for punishment, this is her second Mongol Derby, and she insists it will be her last: "Another Derby and my knees will give out permanently!
"We had a wonderful gallop down the hill to the finish, one arm in the air for balance, it felt like "Man from Snowy River. I was half scared we would trip up on the final stretch, or spook at the finish line entourage- “please do not throw me off in front of all of these flags and cameras!
"It was a great finish! I have a beer in my hand, I'm sat on a horse, and it's 8am! Justin and I both agreed it was a big bonus to ride with someone else; it was give and take, you need someone else to help balance the highs and lows. In retrospect the things that were lows at the time become highs when you have endured them and completed the race. We rode in violent hail storms, nearly got struck by lightning, and rode in forty degree heat. I have two swollen knees and my back is in spasm. I am physically broken, but mentally absolutely high. You feel like you have achieved something very grand. The landscape is humbling, but also makes you feel proud. Proud in spite of looking very uncivilised, with our split lips."
When asked about her experience of surviving on the steppe, she said "Mongolian people are the nicest on the planet- so friendly and so giving. They made a huge effort for us, and it's an honour to be with them and stay with them, and a privilege that they lend their magnificent horses for us. Danger aside, you feel very safe out here with the Mongolians. It is a wonderful life out here on the steppe- you have to deal with being alone, with no barriers. Unrestricted by social/political constraints, you learn who you are. This is an experience everyone should go through! There is no room for bullshit, silly social worries. It's pure survival."
We will be speaking to more riders as they complete their epic 1,000km ride in the coming days. A support vehicle loaded with photographs is also on its way back to Derby HQ in Ulaanbaatar, and we look forward to some eloquent images to do justice to Team Juskia'a eloquent words at the finish line.
The remaining riders can all be tracked online via their GPS Spot trackers, visit the Tracking Page to see who is winning.
Each Rider is raising at least £1000 for the official charities, Mercy Corps and AVSF so that the Mongol Derby makes a genuinely positive impact over and above the benefits of the race itself.
The Mongol Derby is organised by The Adventurists in partnership with Tengri Group in Mongolia.
Mongol Derby: Justin Nelzen and Saskia van Heeren neck and neck with just 25km to go...
This year's 1000km Mongol Derby horse race across Mongolia has been tight throughout, but today two riders have broken clear of the chasing pack and are closing in on the finish line.
Justin Nelzen, a former US marine, and South African Saskia van Heeren who also raced in the 2009 Mongol Derby, are camped right now at the penultimate Urtuu (horse station) just 25km from the finish line.
Agonisingly close to the finish line, they actually set out from Urtuu 24 to try and cross the finish line today but a torrential downpour forced them back to the horse station where they're currently camped.
Racing rules only permit riding during daylight hours so as soon as dawn breaks the two riders will set out to complete their epic race, but nobody knows who will cross the finish line first.
The pair are expected to approach the finish line at 7am local Mongolian time and as the sun is about to rise in Mongolia they are most likely just about to set off.
Each Urtuu (horse station) is approximately 40km apart and most of the riders are camping at one of these stations.
Just one Urtuu behind the leading pair at horse station 23 is Madonna Harris, camping up without any other riders and currently in a strong third but probably not able to challenge for a win.
Halfway between horse stations 22 and 23 and just behind Madonna and sleeping out on the steppe are Sophie del Selliers and Richard Dyer.
And at Urtuu 22 the following riders make up the chasing pack: Camilla Speck, Anya Campbell, Hilary Ponti, Camilla Swift and Rhiannon Thomas.
Kat Swigart who bravely rode on after a fall is at Urtuu 20 along with Ann Bradbury, Elsa Post and Susi Saddler.
The riders can all be tracked online via their GPS Spot trackers, visit the Tracking Page to see who is winning.
Each Rider is raising at least £1000 for the official charities, Mercy Corps and AVSF so that the Mongol Derby makes a genuinely positive impact over and above the benefits of the race itself.
The Mongol Derby is organised by The Adventurists in partnership with Tengri Group in Mongolia.
2010 WEG: YMCA of Central Kentucky to open facilities to guests of the 2010 Games
LEXINGTON, KY - The YMCA of Central Kentucky joins the World Games 2010 Foundation in welcoming guests from around the world during the 16 days of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, by providing facilities to athletes and guests who want to stay active during their visit.
Any person attending or participating in the Games will be allowed free guest access to the Y’s facility branches, which include Beaumont Centre Family Y, High Street Y, and North Lexington Family Y, for the duration of the Games.
“With YMCA’s located in 124 countries worldwide, this is a great opportunity for our association to welcome the world to our community,” said Jim Kelsey, marketing and communications director for the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “We’re excited to welcome new friends from all over the world while continuing to serve this community.”
The Y has been serving the Lexington community since 1853, and is a non-profit, volunteer organization with a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
The branch facilities of the YMCA of Central Kentucky vary slightly but all of them feature state-of-the-art workout amenities including free weights, cardio equipment, group exercise classes, aquatic facilities, locker rooms with showers and more.
To gain free entry to any of the facility branches during the Games, athletes or visitors just have to show their World Equestrian Games pass or ticket to Y staff upon entering the facility. There is no limit to how many times a guest can use the facilities, and even Lexington residents attending the Games are allowed access.
For more information about the YMCA of Central Kentucky and to view the location and details of each facility branch, click here.
Great Britain: Endurance WEG Team member back in the saddle
2010-08-11
It takes a lot of grit and determination, not to mention physical stamina, to be an endurance rider at the top level, especially if you have just given birth to a daughter and intend to be on the team for the World Equestrian Games (WEG) to be held in Kentucky, USA in September.
Ros Clapp, 37, from Baltonsborough, Somerset, completed the 80km Endurance Ride at Barbary Castle on 7th August, with her team horse, Nazeeka, just 27 days after her second daughter, Jenna, was born. She then attended the team training day the following day, and Jenna came too – her first experience of crewing, though she slept through most of the action.
“I feel fine. I did some walking and kept active while I was pregnant and managed to stay reasonably fit. My physio said that running was not so good so now I am working on getting my core strength back, doing Pilates and my father-in-law has leant me his exercise bike!”, said Ros, who also has a 2 year old daughter, Polly.
“It was good to be back competing again. There was quite a bit of canter work on 80km ride and at the training day, which was good for my calves! Nazeeka was in good form and did all the work. My Mum and sister have been helping keep her fit and she did a 120km ride while I was not riding, so now she just needs some hill work to get her really fit for the WEG..."
Read more here:
http://www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk/news-detail.php?id=522
Mongol Derby 1000km horse race underway now in Mongolia
http://mongolderby.theadventurists.com/index.php?page=derby-news-release-launch
14 riders in contention at halfway stage...
The Mongol Derby 1000km horse race across Mongolia thundered out onto the Steppe on Saturday 7th August and the dramatic horseback adventure has already seen rider injuries, withdrawals, extreme fatigue and intense competition for first place.
Now just over halfway into the race, the leading riders have travelled well over 500km and reached horse station 16 out of a total of 25 along the route. There are two groups of seven riders still racing, camped overnight just one horse station apart, so as they sleep only 40 kilometres separates the whole field after 5 days of racing. The race will restart at dawn in Mongolia.
Nearly all the riders are reported to be showing clear signs of the physical strain. Kat Swigart, from the USA, is sporting a "double egg" bump to the head and a black eye after taking a tumble on Sunday. In the company of two other riders who alerted our medical team and dispatched them to check up on her, she has bravely continued none the worse.
The medical response services are provided by the Derby's Official Medical Partner – Prometheus, who are well known for delivering emergency medical support in remote environments such as the Mongolian steppe.
South African Elsa Post and British rider Anna Bradbury have called time on their competitive bid for Derby glory and elected to be transferred further up the course, giving them the chance to rest, re-group and re-mount when they are ready while the pack thunders on.
Unfortunately another South African Rider Alexandra van Heeren sustained a broken collarbone during pre-race training and was forced to retire from the race.
The training was held on the steppe by Maggie Pattinson, Chef d'Equipe of the British Home International Endurance Team since 2007 and endurance expert extraordinnaire. She is now travelling along the route of the Derby in a response vehicle, and reported earlier today:
"The race hotting up now Richard Sophie and Alisa left 10 mins ahead of Justin, Madonna and Saskia this morning. All in good spirits despite wet conditions, having achieved 4 stations yesterday.
"If spirits high, bodies showing some wear and tear, even Madonna is tired. The Dark Horse is Richard, who looks no different morning, noon or night".
Maggie's dark horse is Richard Dyer, a British rider currently in the leading pack – one to watch.
Justin Nelzen, a former US marine is the only other man competing in the race and has been a favourite of many. He has stated his intentions are to win, but he'll have to overcome Richard, and the other 12 female riders to win the 2010 Derby.
The riders can all be tracked online via their GPS Spot trackers, visit the Tracking Page to see who is winning.
Each Rider is raising at least £1000 for the official charities, Mercy Corps and AVSF so that the Mongol Derby makes a genuinely positive impact over and above the benefits of the race itself.
The Mongol Derby is organised by The Adventurists in partnership with Tengri Group in Mongolia.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
New Zealand: Endurance Board comments on World Equestrian Games withdrawals
August 11 2010
The Endurance Board of Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) has distanced itself from the controversy surrounding the withdrawal of two combinations from the World Equestrian Games.
Two-time national champion Jenny Champion and 2010 national champion Sue Reid each withdrew from the team after their first-choice grooms failed to gain selection.
The withdrawals have left New Zealand with three combinations in endurance in the Games in Kentucky, severely damaging the country's chances of team honours.
The Endurance Board, in a statement to members, noted the public discussion and debate around the withdrawals and voiced fears it could damage the sport's standing.
It said it wanted to reiterate to members that the Endurance Board held no authority over ESNZ High Performance and retained no position of influence over endurance high-performance selections or selection criteria for the Games...
Read more here:
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2010/08/072.shtml
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The First Barefoot Endurance Horse of Guatemala Goes to the WEG 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010 by Kevin Myers
Candelita and Jaime Mansilla earned their place in the Guatemalan Team for the WEG 2010, on June 19th at the FEI 3* Event in El Caman Chimaltenango, with Easyboot Bares as back up.
We had three US FEI Officials attending the event, Dr. Mike Tomlinson, Teresa Cross and Sue Phillips helping us as Foreign Officials. And our own FEI 4* Judge Scarlet de Rodas was on location, who has participated in several FEI rides in the US, including the Git R Done in California last January.
Candelita has been shod her entire career she is now nine years old and has done endurance for four years. But we at Haras EL Pino Endurance have started experimenting with natural hoof care for about eight months with the broodmare band and non-competition horses. We were so impressed with the results that were now at the stage of trying it on our competition horses...
Read more here:
http://blog.easycareinc.com/blog/bootlegging/0/0/the-first-barefoot-endurance-horse-of-guatemala-goes-to-the-weg-2010
FEI Open European Endurance Championships for Juniors and Young Riders 2010, Kreuth, Germany
TEAM FRANCE DOMINATES YET AGAIN – UAE TAKES OPEN INDIVIDUAL TITLE
The small village of Kreuth is any horse person’s dream – a complete village based entirely around equestrian sport. The venue is well established and has hosted Endurance, Eventing, Reining and Dressage International competitions, but this is the first time an FEI Championship has been hosted in Kreuth. The site, comprised of various arenas, cross country courses, a hotel and large airy barn for stabling, is nestled in the Bavarian countryside approximately two hours south of Munich (GER) on the south east edge of the Taubenbach Forest. It is a perfect venue for Endurance, with extensive vet-gate space, a flat grass trot-up area and ample parking for crew vehicles. The route is principally made up of gravel forest tracks.
Sixteen nations were entered for the FEI Open European Junior and Young Rider Championships with a total of 51 horse/rider combinations. Unfortunately three horses failed the pre-ride vetting, one horse each from Italy, Portugal and Hungary. The biggest impact of these vet-outs was for Hungary who had only brought three horses. The loss of their third horse would mean they would no longer be able to challenge for a team position and would now only field two individual riders. The usual European nations were out in force, although some with fewer riders than normal. Teams were entered from Belgium, the Czech Republic, Spain, Germany, Italy and Portugal. As this was an Open Championships there were some entries from further afield, namely Argentina, the United Arab Emirates and the USA, although none of these nations sent a team.
Read more here:
http://horsesinthesouth.com/blog/index.php/2010/08/09/fei-open-european-endurance-championships-for-juniors-and-young-riders-2010-kreuth-ger/
Monday, August 09, 2010
Young endurance rider secures record European 4th for Britain
Sophie Montagne, H&H newsdesk
9 August, 2010
Endurance rider Beth Langley secured Britain's highest placing ever at a young rider Europeans, coming fourth at the championships in Kreuth, Germany on 5 August.
Nineteen-year-old Beth, riding HS Ametista, covered the 120km (75 miles) at an average speed of 12.3mph, hassling a strong French team all the way.
"I was stabled opposite the French and, as my pony is only 14hh, I don't think they saw her as much of a threat," Beth said.
But, riding as an individual, she was free to follow her own tactics, antagonise the French and push for a placing.
"I stuck behind the French team for the first loop and let them do all the work which annoyed them," she said...
Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/300831.html
Sunday, August 08, 2010
Mongolia: Kiwi leads the field in the world's most demanding horse race
A Kiwi double Olympian is leading what is described as the longest and toughest horse race in the world.
The second annual Mongol Derby will take the riders 1000 kilometres across the Mongolian wilderness.
Last year's derby took the participants between seven and 10 days to complete, raising money for Mongolian charities.
Madonna Harris, 53, who represented New Zealand in road cycling in the 1988 Olympic Games and in cross-country skiing in the 1988 Winter Olympics, was one of 16 riders who lined up for the start of the race on Saturday.
Yesterday, she was leading the field. "I have been working on accepting that it will be one of the hardest things I've done and knowing there are bound to be moments of difficulty," she said on the race website.
"I'm certainly not riding to win ... I'm expecting to be distracted along the way by the culture and people, and I want to be able to see the environment as I travel through...."
Read more here:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/4003269/Kiwi-leads-the-field-in-the-worlds-most-demanding-horse-race
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Kanavy Withdraws Horses from WEG Selection Trials
Concern over the selection and demonstration process for the US team has prompted former multiple World Endurance Champion Valerie Kanavy to withdraw her 3 horses - King Ali Gold, Gold Raven, and Spectacular Gold, from the selection trials for the World Endurance Championship to be held September 26, 2010 in Lexington, Kentucky.
Kanavy's main concern is that the trial, to be held in Illinois next week, is too close, for the distance and speed the horses will be asked to go, to the Championship race. "If you were training your own horse, you might do a 50 mile ride in a controlled situation, to peak your horse for the WEC," Kanavy said. "I've worked really hard, and I've demonstrated that my horses are capable. I won't run them in the heat, humidity and mud at speed 5 weeks before the WEC. That's the bottom line."
Secondly, the ten horses and riders selected from the trials will go on to Shaker Village, Kentucky, and will stay there for the 3 weeks before the WEC, sitting in Shaker Village, Kentucky, until the final 5 riders and horses will be chosen 4 days before the race. "The horses would be more relaxed in their home environment; this robs them of comfort and rest before the big race."
Kanavy had raised a lot of concerns about the process all along the way, but they were not addressed. "I expect a lot out of my horses. I've worked toward this [2010 World Endurance Championship on home turf] for 3 years. I've demonstrated over the years, with all the horses in my stables, including the young ones, their capability with my training and program.
"I've been flexible and open minded, and I know I don't know everything... I've evaluated, consulted, and tested my horses, and I know they are capable of giving their best performance, but my horses can't do a good job if all the energy gets sucked out of them before the race."
Kanavy is disappointed things worked out this way, but she's moved on. "I've already got my horses booked on a flight to Europe for 2 big races, including the Young Horse Championships in France. I'm looking forward to testing my young one against the best in Europe."
- Merri Melde
Brazilian Confederation of Equestrian Endurance teams defined for the World Equestrian Games
Held every four years, the World Equestrian Games this year in sixth version, is known as the "World Cup" of the horse. For the first time outside Europe, the competition that takes place between September 25 and October 10 in Lexington, in the U.S. state of Kentucky will gather approximately 1,000 athletes from 65 countries competing in eight different sports. Brazil has a presence in the race since its debut in 1990 in Sweden, but it is the first time will be represented by teams in seven categories: Dressage, Eventing (CCE), Endurance, Reining, Jumping, vaulting and riding Special (paraequetre).
For definition of the teams that will represent the country in the World Equestrian Games, the Brazilian Confederation of Equestrian selective been promoting since 2009, and the formation of teams began to be defined. Three modes already have their representatives: Enduro, Eventing and Reining.
Endurance:
Enduro in Brazil will have five representatives, four of them competing for a team and as individual. All animals are from purebred Arabian. Amazons are selected Karina Arroyo riding HSK Nadjin, Lilian Garrubo Juda with HEM and Victoria Lins riding Chanrion C, and the rider with Rafael Salvador Caliph Tamm. Are still seeking three other place in the team Enduro: Ana Carla Maciel riding WN Perla, Andre Vidiz with Magic Endurance and Fernando Gonçalves Mustaz with SC. "These athletes will have their animals subjected to clinical examination and complementary by veterinarians of the Technical Commission and the Director of Veterinary CBH, Thomas Wolff, in order to define the fifth set and selected the two sets reserves," said Olav Maciel, Director of Enduro CBH. Team boss is William Santos Ferreira and coach, Gerson Acedo Vieira.
The Belgian Squad for the WEG in Kentucky
Endurance-belgium.com
After the good performance of the Belgian Juniors at Kreuth in Germany at the European Championship (Belgium took Team Silver and Bronze Individual), it is now time to focus on the riders and horses who will travel to USA.
Belgium is a small country with quite few endurance riders (500 competing at various levels from 30km to 160km). In terms of international riders, there are maybe 30 to 40, depending on the year and the horses they have to compete. Last year, we had only two FEI rides in Belgium, the major one at Mont Le Soie and the 'WorldCup for Veterans' in Mirwart which takes place End October. But it is easy in Belgium to cross the border and head to the neighboring countries, France, Germany, UK.
France is our preferred destination as we can find many high-level rides at less than 500 km from our place. And always a very good level of participation and well-organized rides.
The Belgian Chef d'Equipe could this year make his choice among six couples. The federation saved money to send four horses/riders/crew per discipline. Of course, like everywhere showjumping, dressage and military are the most favored discipline. Endurance receives nevertheless a good treatment in Belgium (we can say that's because the discipline brings often medals to the country).
Pierre Arnould proposed the following list to the federation. He was assisted by the endurance team veterinarian and also by the 'all discipline' team veterinarian. The list of four couples and one reserve was accepted by the federation.
They are :
- Pietro di Geronimo with Mengalli
- Karin Boulanger with Poespass
- Maritza Pereira with Lima du Barthas
- Dominique Evrard with Alicia d'Havenne
Reserve will be Michel Lequarre and LI Korum. Nevertheless the endurance commission entered a special request to the federation in order to get, like other disciplines, a fifth horse traveling to Kentucky. The decision has not yet been taken.
One can remember the fuss around the Belgian team last year at the time of the selection for the European Championship at Assisi, Italy. The Belgian rider, Kristel Vandenabeel entered an appeal at the court against the Belgian federation, because she was not making part of the selection. A first express decision of a regional court asked the Belgian federation to change his decision, but an appeal from the court of Liege revoked the initial decision of the court. Will we see the same scenario this year?
All European horses will fly from the Wallonian airport of Liege, well located in the middle of Europe and equipped with all necessary infrastructure for shipping horses abroad.
Stay tuned, we will try to shoot some photos when the horse will embark on their jumbo's...
Endurance medical armbands considered after fatal fall
Charlotte White, H&H deputy news editor
7 August, 2010
Suggestions that endurance riders should wear eventing-style medical armbands are being considered by the FEI and Endurance GB (EGB) after the death of a Japanese rider following a fall at Euston Park.
Mitsuko Masui, 73, was competing in the CEI*** 160km ride at the Norfolk venue on 11 July when she was found on the ground by British rider Kirsty Wiscombe (report, 22 July).
The rider was taken to Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge by air ambulance, where she died the next day. Her death seems to have been due to a medical condition rather than a riding accident.
Ms Masui's death has prompted Euston Park president James MacEwan to urge EGB and the FEI to adopt medical cards for competitors.
"Endurance has just as high a risk assessment as eventing because of the vast distances in the saddle involved," he said...
Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/300740.html
Friday, August 06, 2010
Great Britain: David Yeoman joins re-jigged WEG endurance team
Abigail Butcher, H&H head of news
5 August, 2010
A substitution has been made on the British endurance team heading to Kentucky this September for the World Equestrian Games (WEG).
The in-form David Yeoman and his ride Haszar have been picked from the bank of reserves to replace Alice Beet after her horse, Laouenne De Kerpont, went lame.
The original line-up was announced on 7 July.
"Although with rest it is a small problem, I am not prepared to travel Laouenne if I have any doubts in my mind. If I go I was planning to have a crack at it!" said Alice...
Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=300726
2010 WEG: Final Stages of Preparation for the Australian Endurance Team
Heading for Kentucky
August 4 2010
Flights are booked, we are still not 100% sure when the horses fly out, currently it is the 29th August , which is not far away. The Team is now almost organised, Norbet and Acheron had their final preparation ride of 90km this last week which they won in fine style in 4:53hrs.
The final team is
Norbet Radny and West Coast Acheron
Grooms Jane Radny ,Dr Narelle Cribb
Crew Rebecca Radny, Harry O’Brien, Ian Symington
Matthew Sample and Tarrengower Crecendo
Reserve: Brookleigh Ricardo
Grooms; Paul Brown, Jessica Landridge
Crew : Barbara Timms
Penny Toft and Don
Grooms: Anne Hall, Alexandra Toft
Crew: Helen Toft, Jackie Byrnes, Peter Toft
Chef D’ Equipe, Dr Trish Mackay Annetts, Assistant: Denise Trollope
Team Veterinarian: Dr Robyn Mather
Crew Manager: Chris Gates
Farrier: Mark Peel
Matthew and Crecendo will be competing at the Murrumba 100km ride on 8th August as the final work out and Penny and Don will be going out to Charleville the 21st August for their final run.
The flights for the horses has been a bit distressing as the original flight bookings were cancelled without warning when the carrier suspended all services to Australia and New Zealand. Currently the horses are booked on the 29th August, this has also incurred extra cost to the competitors.
Dr Narelle Cribb, Paul brown and Peter Toft are scheduled to travel with the horses. This too may change!
More information when this becomes available
Barb Timms
Thursday, August 05, 2010
Kentucky Horse Park to have better cell phone service during WEG
August 5 2010
By Linda B. Blackford - lblackford@herald-leader.com
AT&T will expand its cell phone and wireless Internet service at the Kentucky Horse Park during the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, the company said Wednesday as it was declared an official sponsor of the Games.
AT&T also will provide a global positioning system that allows spectators to track the whereabouts of horses during the Games' endurance event, which will be run on a 100-mile course largely made up of private horse farms.
"We will be doing this GPS tracking for the first time," said Emmett Ross, the discipline manager for endurance who designed the course.
Ross describes endurance as "80 Kentucky Derbies at one-third the speed in one day." Ross said the tracking system is especially valuable because spectators will not be allowed on private land to watch the race...
Read more here:
http://www.kentucky.com/2010/08/05/1376522/kentucky-horse-park-to-have-better.html
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
2010 WEG: GPS tracking for WEG endurance horses
August 5, 2010
Horses in the endurance competition at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky next month will each be tracked on the 160km course by GPS.
The GPS service should mean support crew and spectators will know exactly where a horse and rider is on the course, how the team is doing, and average speeds during the ride.
The tracking service is being provided by AT&T, which is leasing Foundation Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Cards for the endurance event. This is the first time in the history of the Games where endurance athletes will be tracked using GPS throughout the 160km competition.
"With GPS tracking devices for the endurance competition, we are changing the way this sport is followed," said Emmett Ross, Discipline Manager for the Endurance World Championship...
Read more here:
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2010/08/040.shtml
Australia: Endurance Team for WEG announced
Penny Toft and Don (Queensland)
Successful competitors at the World Endurance Championships in Malaysia in 2008. Penny is a previous winner of Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Don is a 14 year old unregistered gelding and as a combination they have many successful 160km competitive completions over the previous five years and will be well suited to the Kentucky course.
Matthew Sample and Brookleigh Ricardo (Queensland)
A competitive duo, several wins and second placing in major FEI rides during the last five years. This will be Matthew and Ricardo’s second attempt at World Championship level, being unsuccessful in Malaysia two years ago. A dual Quilty winner in 2009 and winner of the Heavyweight division in the 2008 Quilty, Matthew is determined to do well in Kentucky. Brookleigh Ricardo is a 12 year old unregistered gelding and is now reaching his prime as an endurance horse and should do well in Kentucky.
Matthew Sample and Tarrangower Crescendo (Queensland)
The horse is owned and ridden by Matthew and is also qualified to compete in Kentucky. Crescendo is a 14 year old Arabian gelding, with a distinctive white face and strawberry roan in colour, dual Quilty winner in 2009 and winner of the Queensland State Championships in 2010.
Norbert Radny and West Coast Acharon (Western Australia)
A very successful combination in their home state of Western Australia, and now taking on the world at Kentucky. Acky, as he is commonly known, is an 11 year old Arabian stallion with many endurance wins as well as being successful on the show circuit both in hand and under saddle when shown and ridden by his other owner, Jane Radny. Acky, together with Jane, Norbert and their daughter Rebecca travelled to the Queensland State Championships to competently complete their qualifications for Kentucky.
New Zealand: Groom policy explained in 2009, says governing body
August 4, 2010
by Robin Marshall
Kiwi endurance riders in contention for representative honours were told in 2009 that they might not get their first-choice groom if selected, Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) says.
Chief executive Jim Ellis was commenting after the withdrawal of the second of five endurance riders selected to represent New Zealand at the World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Kentucky late in September.
The latest withdrawal, that of Jenny Champion and her mount Freckles, means chances of team honours at the Games are difficult, as there could be no discard time. Susan Reid withdrew from the team on July 13.
The withdrawals centred around both riders failing to see their first-choice grooms selected.
Ellis said officials from ESNZ's High Performance programme had talked with Champion over the past three weeks in a bid to resolve the dispute...
Read more here:
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2010/08/034.shtml
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