Standard Freeholder
Posted By ANGELA DORIE
Riding knows no boundaries and, as reported here earlier, Wendy Maccoubrey of Ste. Justine, Que., and her Arab gelding, Mariah, competed in the F. E. I World Endurance Championships in Terengganu, Malaysia from Nov. 6-9 as part of the seven-member Team Canada.
Held bi-yearly, the 2008 World Championship was held, for the first time ever, in a tropical environment at the Terengganu International Endurance Par, a venue which covered varying terrain such as the ocean coastline, palm plantations and canal banks, as well as naturally vegetated areas (jungle?!).
Daytime temperatures peaked at 105 degrees with 80 per cent humidity.
The King of Malaysia, HM Tuanku Mizan, himself an accomplished endurance rider, had the park as well as its stables, schooling areas, etc., created to encourage development of the sport.
It is one of only two such specialized facilities in the world.
ALL-EXPENSES PAID
To ensure that the best in the world competed at this event, the King paid all expenses for the 133 competitors, from air passage to accommodations and food, for both two-and four-legged participants.
Also, each country was allowed to send a veterinarian and a Chef d'Equip as well as two support staff for each rider and horse -- a very large contingent indeed.
As anyone who travels will attest to, there are always problems along the way, the SNAFUs of travel if you will, and this trip was no exception for Wendy and Mariah.
It was timed so that the Canadian team would arrive a couple of weeks early, giving them ample opportunity to acclimate themselves and their horses. A case of "misinformation" regarding the timing of a West Nile booster resulted in Mariah's papers being rejected two days before departure. Trying to reschedule another flight 15 days later, followed by a one-day delay in transport time, resulted in Mariah arriving only five days before the competition. In true Arab fashion he arrived full of beans, apparently walking his handlers everywhere when he disembarked.
After a couple of days to settle in and some hand walking, he and Wendy started night time rides and were deemed fit to start the championship race.
The 160-kilometer (100-mile) race was ridden the night of November 7, riders departing from the start gate at 5 p. m. and riding the seven LED colour-coded "loops" of the course, passing through the mandatory checkpoints at the end of each.
CHECK CONDITION OF HORSES
This is where the condition of the horses is checked by a full flight of vets and technicians: recovery rate, body temperature, pulse and respiration, as well as lameness and/or soreness, before they are permitted to continue on the next leg. As testament to the difficulty of this type of competition, 78 of the 133 who started were either eliminated, disqualified or voluntarily retired.
Canada was represented by Wendy on Mariah, along with six other riders and their horses, three competing as individuals and four as a team (best three times to count).
All but one finished the course, a member of the team, however as three still completed, their times counted and Team Canada placed seventh over all with a time of 38:25:45.
FINISHED 46TH
Wendy and Mariah finished 46th with an individual time of 13:08:21, an astounding effort considering their trials just getting there.
Talk about going against all the odds!
Showing posts with label ca. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ca. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Canadian Endurance Team Finishes Seventh in Malaysia
Hunter Jumper news
Written by Julie Cull
November 28, 2008
Ottawa, ON—The Canadian Endurance Team comprised of Wendy Benns of Pontypool, ON, Ruth Sturley of Owen Sound, ON, Yvette Vinton DVM of Simcoe, ON, and Bob Gielen of Norton, NB, finished in seventh place out of 21 starting teams on November 7, 2008, at the World Endurance Championships.
Held at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Lembah Bidong, Merang Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia, 126 riders representing 33 countries took part in the 100-mile competition, which saw only 48 individuals finish.
Only seven nations finished three riders, and the results were very close. First place went to United Arab Emirates in a time of 27 hours, 57 minutes and 59 seconds. Qatar finished in second with a total time of 28:47:17, and third place was awarded to Bahrain with 30:54:22. Canada finished in 38:25:45 for seventh place overall.
“I felt our strength would be in our teamwork and I think this proved true. Even though it didn’t always go according to pre-ride planning, on the whole the strong Canadian performance was the work of the whole group—grooms very much included—that got the horses through in such good condition and in position to place top ten,” remarked Chef d’équipe Kay Melvin. “Congratulations again to the whole Canadian contingent on a job well done. We should also thank our hosts who treated us so well and made us welcome in their beautiful country.”
Individually, Gielen was the top placed Canadian rider, with a time of 12 hours and 27 minutes for 40th place, with his horse FC Galaxy, an 11-year-old Arabian gelding. In 42nd spot, in a time of 12 hours and 49 minutes, was Sturley and RBF Super Sport, her 15-year-old Arabian gelding. Recording the same time, of 13 hours and eight minutes, was Wendy MacCoubrey of Ste. Justine, QC, for 46th place, on Mariah, a nine-year-old Arabian gelding, and Vinton, for 47th, and Tease, an eight-year-old Arabian gelding. Benns her horse Supreme Justice, a nine-year-old Arabian gelding, did not complete the ride.
“This was the most challenging ride that I have ever completed, and my horse performed way beyond my expectations,” remarked Gielen who hope to qualify for the Canadian Endurance Team at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. “Completing the ride in Malaysia was just an incredible experience.”
Maria Mercedes Altars Ponton of Spain lead the competition from start to finish on Knobby, a 13-year-old Arabian gelding in a time of eight hours, 48 minutes and six seconds.
“This year’s world championships lived up to Endurance’s reputation as the most demanding of all equestrian sports, as the nearly two-thirds of competitors who were unable to complete the course can certainly attest. The climate, terrain, and distance were physical and psychological trials of both horse and rider, and we are proud of our team for thriving on a course that most other nations struggled merely to survive,” praised Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj.
The next stop for the Canadian Endurance Team is to field two teams, Canada East and Canada West, to 2009 World Equestrian Games Endurance Test Event in Kentucky in preparation for the 2010 World Championships.
About Endurance Canada
Endurance Canada is a committee of Equine Canada, and the National governing body of the sport of Endurance Riding in Canada, from the grassroots to the international level. Endurance Canada is responsible for the growth and pursuit of excellence at all levels of the sport, providing support and guidance through various programs and committees: veterinary; rules and sanctioning; athlete and sport development; education and coaching; communication and awards. For more information, please visit the Endurance Canada section of the Equine Canada website.
About Equine Canada
Equine Canada is a member-based association that represents, promotes and services Canada’s equine community and industry. Its core areas of activity involve sport, equine health and welfare, education and safety, governance and marketing, representation and communication. Equine Canada is recognized by Sport Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Coaching Association of Canada as the national organization representing equestrian sport and equine interests in Canada. For more information about Equine Canada, please visit www.equinecanada.ca.
[More ...]
Written by Julie Cull
November 28, 2008
Ottawa, ON—The Canadian Endurance Team comprised of Wendy Benns of Pontypool, ON, Ruth Sturley of Owen Sound, ON, Yvette Vinton DVM of Simcoe, ON, and Bob Gielen of Norton, NB, finished in seventh place out of 21 starting teams on November 7, 2008, at the World Endurance Championships.
Held at the Terengganu International Endurance Park in Lembah Bidong, Merang Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia, 126 riders representing 33 countries took part in the 100-mile competition, which saw only 48 individuals finish.
Only seven nations finished three riders, and the results were very close. First place went to United Arab Emirates in a time of 27 hours, 57 minutes and 59 seconds. Qatar finished in second with a total time of 28:47:17, and third place was awarded to Bahrain with 30:54:22. Canada finished in 38:25:45 for seventh place overall.
“I felt our strength would be in our teamwork and I think this proved true. Even though it didn’t always go according to pre-ride planning, on the whole the strong Canadian performance was the work of the whole group—grooms very much included—that got the horses through in such good condition and in position to place top ten,” remarked Chef d’équipe Kay Melvin. “Congratulations again to the whole Canadian contingent on a job well done. We should also thank our hosts who treated us so well and made us welcome in their beautiful country.”
Individually, Gielen was the top placed Canadian rider, with a time of 12 hours and 27 minutes for 40th place, with his horse FC Galaxy, an 11-year-old Arabian gelding. In 42nd spot, in a time of 12 hours and 49 minutes, was Sturley and RBF Super Sport, her 15-year-old Arabian gelding. Recording the same time, of 13 hours and eight minutes, was Wendy MacCoubrey of Ste. Justine, QC, for 46th place, on Mariah, a nine-year-old Arabian gelding, and Vinton, for 47th, and Tease, an eight-year-old Arabian gelding. Benns her horse Supreme Justice, a nine-year-old Arabian gelding, did not complete the ride.
“This was the most challenging ride that I have ever completed, and my horse performed way beyond my expectations,” remarked Gielen who hope to qualify for the Canadian Endurance Team at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. “Completing the ride in Malaysia was just an incredible experience.”
Maria Mercedes Altars Ponton of Spain lead the competition from start to finish on Knobby, a 13-year-old Arabian gelding in a time of eight hours, 48 minutes and six seconds.
“This year’s world championships lived up to Endurance’s reputation as the most demanding of all equestrian sports, as the nearly two-thirds of competitors who were unable to complete the course can certainly attest. The climate, terrain, and distance were physical and psychological trials of both horse and rider, and we are proud of our team for thriving on a course that most other nations struggled merely to survive,” praised Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj.
The next stop for the Canadian Endurance Team is to field two teams, Canada East and Canada West, to 2009 World Equestrian Games Endurance Test Event in Kentucky in preparation for the 2010 World Championships.
About Endurance Canada
Endurance Canada is a committee of Equine Canada, and the National governing body of the sport of Endurance Riding in Canada, from the grassroots to the international level. Endurance Canada is responsible for the growth and pursuit of excellence at all levels of the sport, providing support and guidance through various programs and committees: veterinary; rules and sanctioning; athlete and sport development; education and coaching; communication and awards. For more information, please visit the Endurance Canada section of the Equine Canada website.
About Equine Canada
Equine Canada is a member-based association that represents, promotes and services Canada’s equine community and industry. Its core areas of activity involve sport, equine health and welfare, education and safety, governance and marketing, representation and communication. Equine Canada is recognized by Sport Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Coaching Association of Canada as the national organization representing equestrian sport and equine interests in Canada. For more information about Equine Canada, please visit www.equinecanada.ca.
[More ...]
Friday, October 31, 2008
[WEC Reports] Wendy Benns off to the races
TheScugogstandard.ca
By Blake Wolfe/The Scugog Standard
October 31, 2008
A local equestrian and familiar face at the Uxbridge-Scugog Animal Control Centre will be heading to Malaysia next week to represent Canada at an international endurance race.
Wendy Benns and Supreme Justice, her nine-year-old Egyptian Arabian, will be attending the World Endurance Championships on Nov. 7, hosted this year in Terengganu, Malaysia. The one-day event consists of a 100 mile race, with 150 horse and rider teams from around the world at this year's edition, including six members of Team Canada representing the top six horses in the country.
Back home, Ms. Benns works as an animal control officer at the Uxbridge-Scugog Animal Control Centre, and takes the photos of pets seen in the 'For Adoption' pages of local publications like The Scugog Standard.
"Travelling to a tropical region to compete means a lot of stress for the horses," said Ms. Benns of the challenges she will face in the competition, "especially the travel and acclimatization." She added that this particular race requires years of constant training and conditioning for participating horses.
In addition to this year's event, her first World Endurance Championship, Ms. Benns has also competed in three Pan-Am Games as a member of Team Canada, making the jump to the international level of competition in 2006. Ms. Benns originally got into equestrian through the Uxbridge-Scugog Pony Club, which introduced her to the various types of competition.
Ms. Benns also added that she was "overwhelmed" and thankful for the sponsors who helped her along the way, especially for what she described as a somewhat unconventional sporting event.
"Endurance racing is a difficult sport to attract sponsors to," she said, "as it really isn't a spectator sport. Horses and riders race on trails in remote areas."
"I'm hoping to help Canada become a medal contender in this competition," she said of her hopes for the race.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/01/2008 12:02:00 AM
By Blake Wolfe/The Scugog Standard
October 31, 2008
A local equestrian and familiar face at the Uxbridge-Scugog Animal Control Centre will be heading to Malaysia next week to represent Canada at an international endurance race.
Wendy Benns and Supreme Justice, her nine-year-old Egyptian Arabian, will be attending the World Endurance Championships on Nov. 7, hosted this year in Terengganu, Malaysia. The one-day event consists of a 100 mile race, with 150 horse and rider teams from around the world at this year's edition, including six members of Team Canada representing the top six horses in the country.
Back home, Ms. Benns works as an animal control officer at the Uxbridge-Scugog Animal Control Centre, and takes the photos of pets seen in the 'For Adoption' pages of local publications like The Scugog Standard.
"Travelling to a tropical region to compete means a lot of stress for the horses," said Ms. Benns of the challenges she will face in the competition, "especially the travel and acclimatization." She added that this particular race requires years of constant training and conditioning for participating horses.
In addition to this year's event, her first World Endurance Championship, Ms. Benns has also competed in three Pan-Am Games as a member of Team Canada, making the jump to the international level of competition in 2006. Ms. Benns originally got into equestrian through the Uxbridge-Scugog Pony Club, which introduced her to the various types of competition.
Ms. Benns also added that she was "overwhelmed" and thankful for the sponsors who helped her along the way, especially for what she described as a somewhat unconventional sporting event.
"Endurance racing is a difficult sport to attract sponsors to," she said, "as it really isn't a spectator sport. Horses and riders race on trails in remote areas."
"I'm hoping to help Canada become a medal contender in this competition," she said of her hopes for the race.
--
Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/01/2008 12:02:00 AM
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Malaysia WEC: Canadians headed to Malaysia
Standard-freeholder.com
Most area horse people know the names of Lynda and Ken Townsend of Ste-Justine, Que. through their horses, ponies, buggies and sleighs as well as the “Cadillac” of petting zoos and pony rides, “Town and Country”, which they ran for many years.
What many don’t know, though, is that while most of us have been winding down our competition season and preparing for the colder weather, their daughter, Wendy MacCoubrey and “Mariah”, a sixteen-year-old Arab gelding, have been doing the exact opposite!
They are part of the six member Canadian Endurance Team (plus four officials and 15 grooms and crew members!) which left JFK Airport last week headed to Malaysia (read: heat and humidity) for the World Endurance Championships, Nov. 7 to 9.
Wendy herself has logged over 4,500 competitive miles in the saddle, and more than 4,000 of them with “Mariah” as they worked towards making this team.
Here’s wishing them all the best of luck in the competition.
The team can be followed through www.endurancecanada.ca.
Go Canada, go!
Most area horse people know the names of Lynda and Ken Townsend of Ste-Justine, Que. through their horses, ponies, buggies and sleighs as well as the “Cadillac” of petting zoos and pony rides, “Town and Country”, which they ran for many years.
What many don’t know, though, is that while most of us have been winding down our competition season and preparing for the colder weather, their daughter, Wendy MacCoubrey and “Mariah”, a sixteen-year-old Arab gelding, have been doing the exact opposite!
They are part of the six member Canadian Endurance Team (plus four officials and 15 grooms and crew members!) which left JFK Airport last week headed to Malaysia (read: heat and humidity) for the World Endurance Championships, Nov. 7 to 9.
Wendy herself has logged over 4,500 competitive miles in the saddle, and more than 4,000 of them with “Mariah” as they worked towards making this team.
Here’s wishing them all the best of luck in the competition.
The team can be followed through www.endurancecanada.ca.
Go Canada, go!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Malaysia-Wec: Canadian Endurance Team En Route to Malaysia
Hunter Jumper News article
October 16, 2008
Ottawa, ON—Malaysia brings thoughts of shining beaches at exotic resorts, tropical drinks under equatorial skies and bargains at crowded bazaars, but this November, it will also mean eager horses, determined riders, organized grooms and crews, veterinarians, officials and 100 miles of track which will wind among the beautiful countryside, the shore of the South China Sea, tropical rainforests and farms. The World Endurance Championship will be held in this exciting land on November 7, 2008.
The venue will be the Terengganu International Endurance Park, Lembah Bidong, Merang Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia. The Organizing Committee has set up two excellent websites: www.malaysia-wec.com and www.eventuz.com, which will include ride information the day of the event. This will be the first time that a world championship will be held in a tropical location. The track will be fully lit, as the ride is planned to start at 5:00 p.m. and run into the night.
Horses and riders will represent some 36 countries, with 24 sending teams, and the others fielding individual riders.
Endurance Canada is pleased to be sending a full complement of six riders and horses. Four of the riders, still to be chosen, will comprise the team, and two will ride as individuals.
The Canadian Endurance Team Members
Julius Bloomfield (Naramata, BC) and Avtar, 1999 Arabian gelding
Wendy Benns (Pontypool, ON) and Supreme Justice, 1999 Arabian gelding
Wendy MacCoubrey (Ste. Justine, QC) and Mariah, 1999 Arabian gelding
Ruth Sturley (Owen Sound, ON) and RBF Super Sport, 1993 Arabian gelding
Yvette Vinton DVM (Simcoe, ON and Morriston, FL) and Teese, 2000 Arabian gelding
Bob Gielen (Norton, NB) and FC Galaxy, 1997 Arabian gelding
Canadian Officials
Kay Melvin (Ontario) – Chef d’ équipe
Maura Leahy (Manitoba) – assistant Chef d’ équipe
Roxy Bell DVM (Alberta) – team veterinarian
Glenn Sinclair DVM (Manitoba) – assistant team veterinarian
Canadian Support Crew
Nancy Beacon
Robert Benns
Ruth Benns
Toni Bloomfield
Mike Bostic
Angela Gielen
Barb Gielen
Julie Green
Alycin Hayes
Scott Hie
Murray MacKenzie
Bianca MacKenzie
Laurie Whaley Pearson
Rocky Rehel
Ken Sturley
"With its emphasis on bringing the horse across the finish line in best health rather than merely in the shortest time, Endurance is the ultimate test of sympathetic horsemanship," noted Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj. "The 160km course will be the culmination of years of training and perseverance for our horses and riders, and we are very proud that they will represent our country and our sport at the World Championships.
Just getting to the ride has been an organizational, technical maze. The horses will be leaving from Los Angeles, Miami and New York. Riders, officials and crew will travel from Toronto, Vancouver, New York, Los Angeles and Miami—all converging at Terengganu—where the real adventure begins.
"Enough of the paperwork and red tape—let’s just do it," says Kay Melvin, Chef d’ équipe.
Endurance Canada wishes the entire team congratulations, and good luck.
About Endurance Canada
Endurance Canada is a committee of Equine Canada, and the National governing body of the sport of Endurance Riding in Canada, from the grassroots to the international level. Endurance Canada is responsible for the growth and pursuit of excellence at all levels of the sport, providing support and guidance through various programs and committees: veterinary; rules and sanctioning; athlete and sport development; education and coaching; communication and awards.
Written by Julie Cull
October 16, 2008
Ottawa, ON—Malaysia brings thoughts of shining beaches at exotic resorts, tropical drinks under equatorial skies and bargains at crowded bazaars, but this November, it will also mean eager horses, determined riders, organized grooms and crews, veterinarians, officials and 100 miles of track which will wind among the beautiful countryside, the shore of the South China Sea, tropical rainforests and farms. The World Endurance Championship will be held in this exciting land on November 7, 2008.
The venue will be the Terengganu International Endurance Park, Lembah Bidong, Merang Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia. The Organizing Committee has set up two excellent websites: www.malaysia-wec.com and www.eventuz.com, which will include ride information the day of the event. This will be the first time that a world championship will be held in a tropical location. The track will be fully lit, as the ride is planned to start at 5:00 p.m. and run into the night.
Horses and riders will represent some 36 countries, with 24 sending teams, and the others fielding individual riders.
Endurance Canada is pleased to be sending a full complement of six riders and horses. Four of the riders, still to be chosen, will comprise the team, and two will ride as individuals.
The Canadian Endurance Team Members
Julius Bloomfield (Naramata, BC) and Avtar, 1999 Arabian gelding
Wendy Benns (Pontypool, ON) and Supreme Justice, 1999 Arabian gelding
Wendy MacCoubrey (Ste. Justine, QC) and Mariah, 1999 Arabian gelding
Ruth Sturley (Owen Sound, ON) and RBF Super Sport, 1993 Arabian gelding
Yvette Vinton DVM (Simcoe, ON and Morriston, FL) and Teese, 2000 Arabian gelding
Bob Gielen (Norton, NB) and FC Galaxy, 1997 Arabian gelding
Canadian Officials
Kay Melvin (Ontario) – Chef d’ équipe
Maura Leahy (Manitoba) – assistant Chef d’ équipe
Roxy Bell DVM (Alberta) – team veterinarian
Glenn Sinclair DVM (Manitoba) – assistant team veterinarian
Canadian Support Crew
Nancy Beacon
Robert Benns
Ruth Benns
Toni Bloomfield
Mike Bostic
Angela Gielen
Barb Gielen
Julie Green
Alycin Hayes
Scott Hie
Murray MacKenzie
Bianca MacKenzie
Laurie Whaley Pearson
Rocky Rehel
Ken Sturley
"With its emphasis on bringing the horse across the finish line in best health rather than merely in the shortest time, Endurance is the ultimate test of sympathetic horsemanship," noted Equine Canada CEO, Akaash Maharaj. "The 160km course will be the culmination of years of training and perseverance for our horses and riders, and we are very proud that they will represent our country and our sport at the World Championships.
Just getting to the ride has been an organizational, technical maze. The horses will be leaving from Los Angeles, Miami and New York. Riders, officials and crew will travel from Toronto, Vancouver, New York, Los Angeles and Miami—all converging at Terengganu—where the real adventure begins.
"Enough of the paperwork and red tape—let’s just do it," says Kay Melvin, Chef d’ équipe.
Endurance Canada wishes the entire team congratulations, and good luck.
About Endurance Canada
Endurance Canada is a committee of Equine Canada, and the National governing body of the sport of Endurance Riding in Canada, from the grassroots to the international level. Endurance Canada is responsible for the growth and pursuit of excellence at all levels of the sport, providing support and guidance through various programs and committees: veterinary; rules and sanctioning; athlete and sport development; education and coaching; communication and awards.
Written by Julie Cull
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Canada: Alberta Gold and Silver in competitive trail at Canadian Nationals
August 19, 2008 Media Release
Sundre, AB - The Rocky Mountain Challenge 2008 Canadian Nationals saw over
170 entries from the United States and Canada compete over five days at Red
Deer River Ranches west of Sundre, AB in the sports of endurance,
competitive trail and ride n' tie.
Sunny and partly cloudy skies accompanied the Open competitive trail riders
over their two-day, 80-mile bid to become Canadian Champions. The terrain
offered a challenging test including hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog.
Many seasoned competitors found the terrain and the time frame challenging
and had to push their limits to achieve finishing times.
Both Gold and Silver medals were scooped up by the two Alberta team entries
which included three first-time Nationals contenders (Holly Tibble, Kandace
Krause and Christine Smith) and some talented veterans.
Gold Medal - Natasha French of Millarville, AB on Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB aboard Classical Dancer and Holly Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding
King Sera.
Silver Medal - Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding Kittasha, Kandace
Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmine and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB
riding JV Prism.
Cathy Kolesar also earned the Individual bronze medal.
Natasha French of Millarville, AB aside from capturing the gold medal for
Alberta, was also named the Canadian silver individual medallist. French was
caught up in emotion during the presentations earning her first team medal
at her second Nationals appearance. Riding a 14.2 hh Arabian mare named
Savannah, French was happy with the results. "She did great! She’s just so
consistent. She definitely was fresh when we started. She was definitely
peaking for this ride. She’s just my little energizer bunny."
This was French’s second time to a National competition representing
Alberta. Her last appearance was in 2000 in Saskatchewan where she was a
team alternate riding an Arabian mare named Rosie.
French and Savannah have had a short but successful career together. In
2007, they won Provincial Grand Champion in their first open season together
and were pursuing a successful ride season leading up to Nationals.
"It was unbelievable. It didn’t even seem real. I've had such a great season
and it was such a great event. I'm just in awe and amazed at the horse. It
was certainly a proud moment."
Christine Smith of Calgary, AB nominated her horse JV Prism, an eleven
year-old Arabian gelding and was selected to represent Alberta in her first
season of Open competition and only her second season in the sport of
competitive trail riding. A bit of a hard-luck horse, she bought Prism three
years ago from JV Ranch in Coutts, AB after the ranch recovered the horse
from an abusive owner and rehabilitated him. Smith spent three years just
gaining some trust and control over her nervous mount and also nursed him
back from a ripped heel bulb, an injury that had Smith considering
euthanasia.
After overcoming so many obstacles, yet one more would be thrown in the path
of this pair. "He had a bad fall fifteen miles in on day two." Attests
Smith. "He lost 13 points from it. He skinned all his knees and his nose. I
wanted to quit and he wanted to keep going."
And so they did and despite the unfortunate circumstance, Smith's results
assisted the Alberta team in winning the silver. "It was the best
competition we’ve had, it was just phenomenal. I'm so proud of him."
"I was quite honored to be on the team."
Smith was introduced to the sport of competitive trail riding through Clay
Gerow, the owner of the facility where she boards her horse near
Millarville, AB and a local competitive trail rider, Leanna Marchant who she
credits a great deal to.
"I'm happy for Christine. She had done well this year." Attests Marchant who
trains with Smith."She always rides that horse and looks after him like
gold -if she hadn't fallen, she would have been in third overall. She did a
wesome. She placed like I did two years ago." Says Marchant who offers
perhaps a glimpse into Smith's future.
Marchant was on the 2006 silver medal Alberta team placing fifth
individually on her horse Samson's Fire. Now, at age nine, her horse has
already produced credible and consistent results including Provincial Grand
and Reserve Champion titles. Overcoming some saddle fit issues this year may
have influenced her horse being passed over by the team vet and chef d'
equipe for Alberta in the final team selections. "I was disappointed, but I
said I would win." And she did.
Marchant rode as an individual and captured the individual gold medal.
"I had only lost four points. Four points in two days... That's huge." Says
Marchant, beaming. Marchant was equally as thrilled with Alberta’s gold and
silver medals even though she was not on the team. "Other people got
selected and we got gold and silver and that's huge. This way, others got
acknowledged and I still got acknowledged with Sam."
"That was the hardest ride I've done since the Alberta Equestrian Games in
2005.” Says Marchant who has also competed in BC and Montana as well as her
homeland of Australia. Marchant's lofty future goals include planning to
qualify in the 100-mile endurance to represent Canada at the World
Equestrian games Kentucky two years from now."He's in his prime. We'll see
if he can do it and if I can do it." She says with a laugh. "He's not fast
but he's consistent."
The Canadian Nationals are hosted every two years, alternating between
eastern and western Canada. The Nationals also declared champions in
endurance and ride n' tie with a total of eight events being hosted in the
five days of competition.
Sundre, AB - The Rocky Mountain Challenge 2008 Canadian Nationals saw over
170 entries from the United States and Canada compete over five days at Red
Deer River Ranches west of Sundre, AB in the sports of endurance,
competitive trail and ride n' tie.
Sunny and partly cloudy skies accompanied the Open competitive trail riders
over their two-day, 80-mile bid to become Canadian Champions. The terrain
offered a challenging test including hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog.
Many seasoned competitors found the terrain and the time frame challenging
and had to push their limits to achieve finishing times.
Both Gold and Silver medals were scooped up by the two Alberta team entries
which included three first-time Nationals contenders (Holly Tibble, Kandace
Krause and Christine Smith) and some talented veterans.
Gold Medal - Natasha French of Millarville, AB on Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB aboard Classical Dancer and Holly Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding
King Sera.
Silver Medal - Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding Kittasha, Kandace
Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmine and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB
riding JV Prism.
Cathy Kolesar also earned the Individual bronze medal.
Natasha French of Millarville, AB aside from capturing the gold medal for
Alberta, was also named the Canadian silver individual medallist. French was
caught up in emotion during the presentations earning her first team medal
at her second Nationals appearance. Riding a 14.2 hh Arabian mare named
Savannah, French was happy with the results. "She did great! She’s just so
consistent. She definitely was fresh when we started. She was definitely
peaking for this ride. She’s just my little energizer bunny."
This was French’s second time to a National competition representing
Alberta. Her last appearance was in 2000 in Saskatchewan where she was a
team alternate riding an Arabian mare named Rosie.
French and Savannah have had a short but successful career together. In
2007, they won Provincial Grand Champion in their first open season together
and were pursuing a successful ride season leading up to Nationals.
"It was unbelievable. It didn’t even seem real. I've had such a great season
and it was such a great event. I'm just in awe and amazed at the horse. It
was certainly a proud moment."
Christine Smith of Calgary, AB nominated her horse JV Prism, an eleven
year-old Arabian gelding and was selected to represent Alberta in her first
season of Open competition and only her second season in the sport of
competitive trail riding. A bit of a hard-luck horse, she bought Prism three
years ago from JV Ranch in Coutts, AB after the ranch recovered the horse
from an abusive owner and rehabilitated him. Smith spent three years just
gaining some trust and control over her nervous mount and also nursed him
back from a ripped heel bulb, an injury that had Smith considering
euthanasia.
After overcoming so many obstacles, yet one more would be thrown in the path
of this pair. "He had a bad fall fifteen miles in on day two." Attests
Smith. "He lost 13 points from it. He skinned all his knees and his nose. I
wanted to quit and he wanted to keep going."
And so they did and despite the unfortunate circumstance, Smith's results
assisted the Alberta team in winning the silver. "It was the best
competition we’ve had, it was just phenomenal. I'm so proud of him."
"I was quite honored to be on the team."
Smith was introduced to the sport of competitive trail riding through Clay
Gerow, the owner of the facility where she boards her horse near
Millarville, AB and a local competitive trail rider, Leanna Marchant who she
credits a great deal to.
"I'm happy for Christine. She had done well this year." Attests Marchant who
trains with Smith."She always rides that horse and looks after him like
gold -if she hadn't fallen, she would have been in third overall. She did a
wesome. She placed like I did two years ago." Says Marchant who offers
perhaps a glimpse into Smith's future.
Marchant was on the 2006 silver medal Alberta team placing fifth
individually on her horse Samson's Fire. Now, at age nine, her horse has
already produced credible and consistent results including Provincial Grand
and Reserve Champion titles. Overcoming some saddle fit issues this year may
have influenced her horse being passed over by the team vet and chef d'
equipe for Alberta in the final team selections. "I was disappointed, but I
said I would win." And she did.
Marchant rode as an individual and captured the individual gold medal.
"I had only lost four points. Four points in two days... That's huge." Says
Marchant, beaming. Marchant was equally as thrilled with Alberta’s gold and
silver medals even though she was not on the team. "Other people got
selected and we got gold and silver and that's huge. This way, others got
acknowledged and I still got acknowledged with Sam."
"That was the hardest ride I've done since the Alberta Equestrian Games in
2005.” Says Marchant who has also competed in BC and Montana as well as her
homeland of Australia. Marchant's lofty future goals include planning to
qualify in the 100-mile endurance to represent Canada at the World
Equestrian games Kentucky two years from now."He's in his prime. We'll see
if he can do it and if I can do it." She says with a laugh. "He's not fast
but he's consistent."
The Canadian Nationals are hosted every two years, alternating between
eastern and western Canada. The Nationals also declared champions in
endurance and ride n' tie with a total of eight events being hosted in the
five days of competition.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Canada: Team Alberta wins GOLD
Sundre, AB - Auto body shop owner, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley, AB had the ride of his life in the 50-mile endurance competition at the Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals August 2, 2008 held at Red Deer River Ranches, Sundre, AB
The event requires riders to negotiate the 50 miles of Rocky Mountain foothills terrain in the fastest time all while being monitored at veterinarian manned checks along the way to ensure their horses' fitness to continue.
Getzinger, aboard his twelve year-old Arabian, Prince Charming and teammates, Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the team gold medal and Getzinger was also awarded the Endurance Riders of Alberta individual gold medal. Of twenty-nine starters, twenty crossed the finish line.
Getzinger considers himself a recreational competitor, busy raising a family; his first competition was in 1992 in the sport of competitive trail. He was excited to represent Alberta in his first National and first team competition.
"I knew I wanted to do well. I wanted to represent well." Says Getzinger. " My horse surprised me - I just sat back and enjoyed scenery. I didn’t feel as strong as my competition.” Says Getzinger who found himself humbled among a talented field.
"I just love to ride and love endurance. To come up that well was very satisfying."
Getzinger holds the team gold in high esteem. "By far -to win the team gold is more satisfying. When I came into the first check, still running with the leaders, I recall talking to the chef d’ equipe. We discussed staying with the leaders." It was a conscious decision to not run his horse harder than he felt capable to keep up with Karius and two Montana riders.
"To stay with them put me and my horse ahead of the team. I felt I would have been pulled and it would have been selfish and would have sacrificed the team. I believe I’m a team player and it was more important than team victories. My horse is my friend - I’m not going to hurt him for anything or anybody."
"The scenery, the beauty, the competition. I still think there was nothing about that ride I could complain about."
With the opportunity to compete among such a talented field, Getzinger also learned a great deal. It was also the first time someone crewed for him including veteran competitors Christy Janzen and Larry Handziuk who he credited with such great results. (crews are people who help care for the horse and rider when they arrive at checkpoints.) "It was very emotional -any club would rush to us. Taking care of the horse and us."
In all, Alberta claimed seven of the nine Canadian Championship medals during four days of competition. Over 170 riders from the United States and Canada took part.
The Canadian Nationals take place every two years alternating between eastern and western Canada. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.
Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial organization.
Eight events took place over five days including International and Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides open to all level riders.
2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N’ Tie
www.canadiannationals.org
The event requires riders to negotiate the 50 miles of Rocky Mountain foothills terrain in the fastest time all while being monitored at veterinarian manned checks along the way to ensure their horses' fitness to continue.
Getzinger, aboard his twelve year-old Arabian, Prince Charming and teammates, Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the team gold medal and Getzinger was also awarded the Endurance Riders of Alberta individual gold medal. Of twenty-nine starters, twenty crossed the finish line.
Getzinger considers himself a recreational competitor, busy raising a family; his first competition was in 1992 in the sport of competitive trail. He was excited to represent Alberta in his first National and first team competition.
"I knew I wanted to do well. I wanted to represent well." Says Getzinger. " My horse surprised me - I just sat back and enjoyed scenery. I didn’t feel as strong as my competition.” Says Getzinger who found himself humbled among a talented field.
"I just love to ride and love endurance. To come up that well was very satisfying."
Getzinger holds the team gold in high esteem. "By far -to win the team gold is more satisfying. When I came into the first check, still running with the leaders, I recall talking to the chef d’ equipe. We discussed staying with the leaders." It was a conscious decision to not run his horse harder than he felt capable to keep up with Karius and two Montana riders.
"To stay with them put me and my horse ahead of the team. I felt I would have been pulled and it would have been selfish and would have sacrificed the team. I believe I’m a team player and it was more important than team victories. My horse is my friend - I’m not going to hurt him for anything or anybody."
"The scenery, the beauty, the competition. I still think there was nothing about that ride I could complain about."
With the opportunity to compete among such a talented field, Getzinger also learned a great deal. It was also the first time someone crewed for him including veteran competitors Christy Janzen and Larry Handziuk who he credited with such great results. (crews are people who help care for the horse and rider when they arrive at checkpoints.) "It was very emotional -any club would rush to us. Taking care of the horse and us."
In all, Alberta claimed seven of the nine Canadian Championship medals during four days of competition. Over 170 riders from the United States and Canada took part.
The Canadian Nationals take place every two years alternating between eastern and western Canada. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.
Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial organization.
Eight events took place over five days including International and Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides open to all level riders.
2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N’ Tie
www.canadiannationals.org
Canada: Kelowna rider triumphs at Canadian Nationals
August 17, Media Release
Sundre, AB -Elroy Karius of Kelowna, BC and his six year-old equine partner Jolly Holiday "Doc" captured the 50-mile endurance ride at the Rocky Mountain Challenge – 2008 Canadian Nationals August 2, 2008. The endurance ride was one of the eight events hosted over five days of competition which also included the long-distance equine sports of competitive trail riding and ride n' tie. The events were hosted at Red Deer River Ranches south of Sundre, AB.
Karius, an active endurance rider since 1994 got his start in competitive trail riding in 1981. In the last 6 years or so, when he broke the 6:30 hour mark, Karius has really become a contender. His fastest 50-mile ride was a flat ride in 3:40. This Nationals trail would not see blistering times to set any speed records. Its challenging terrain saw 1316 meters of elevation gain in long climbs. Technical stretches included some exceedingly difficult bog, which would claim many riders and saw one rider air-lifted to hospital. Twenty of the twenty-nine starters finished the event.
Just finishing the ride became an achievement and Karius would claim the gold with a ride time of 5:37:57.
"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you and you get it done…it’s a gift." Said Karius of his win.
Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21. Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.
Karius’s mount 'Doc' claims that the horse has that Doc Holiday attitude. "He was a handful to work with. He’s tested us in many ways and continues to this day." Chuckles Karius. "But he’s probably got the best work ethic than any other horse I’ve ever worked with."
"For a young horse, he’s certainly done his work. He was awesome all day." Credits Karius. "For me, there is not greater pleasure than riding a fit horse."
Karius credits his wife, Gail Jewell, a veterinarian and fellow competitor who won the 100 mile the following day, his skilled farrier and other BC riders with assisting in achieving the big win and in helping him achieve in his chosen sport.
In 2003, Karius was named AERC middleweight division champion in Reno, NV and a week later he did a five day ride and claimed best condition on three of the five days. "That was Huge. I had this horse. It was a gift. He was exceptional."
Karius and the top contenders in the ride brought World Class horsemanship and talent to compete and riders of all levels were able to garner new experiences from their presence.
The Canadian National Champions included: Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley, AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the gold medal.
The Silver medal was awarded to Carol Wadey of Edson, AB and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented riders comprised Alberta’s second team and were the only team in both the 50 and 100-mile events to finish all three team members.
British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab Cody Flair.
The Canadian Nationals are held every two years, alternating between eastern and western Canada.
2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N’ Tie
www.canadiannationals.org
Sundre, AB -Elroy Karius of Kelowna, BC and his six year-old equine partner Jolly Holiday "Doc" captured the 50-mile endurance ride at the Rocky Mountain Challenge – 2008 Canadian Nationals August 2, 2008. The endurance ride was one of the eight events hosted over five days of competition which also included the long-distance equine sports of competitive trail riding and ride n' tie. The events were hosted at Red Deer River Ranches south of Sundre, AB.
Karius, an active endurance rider since 1994 got his start in competitive trail riding in 1981. In the last 6 years or so, when he broke the 6:30 hour mark, Karius has really become a contender. His fastest 50-mile ride was a flat ride in 3:40. This Nationals trail would not see blistering times to set any speed records. Its challenging terrain saw 1316 meters of elevation gain in long climbs. Technical stretches included some exceedingly difficult bog, which would claim many riders and saw one rider air-lifted to hospital. Twenty of the twenty-nine starters finished the event.
Just finishing the ride became an achievement and Karius would claim the gold with a ride time of 5:37:57.
"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you and you get it done…it’s a gift." Said Karius of his win.
Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21. Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.
Karius’s mount 'Doc' claims that the horse has that Doc Holiday attitude. "He was a handful to work with. He’s tested us in many ways and continues to this day." Chuckles Karius. "But he’s probably got the best work ethic than any other horse I’ve ever worked with."
"For a young horse, he’s certainly done his work. He was awesome all day." Credits Karius. "For me, there is not greater pleasure than riding a fit horse."
Karius credits his wife, Gail Jewell, a veterinarian and fellow competitor who won the 100 mile the following day, his skilled farrier and other BC riders with assisting in achieving the big win and in helping him achieve in his chosen sport.
In 2003, Karius was named AERC middleweight division champion in Reno, NV and a week later he did a five day ride and claimed best condition on three of the five days. "That was Huge. I had this horse. It was a gift. He was exceptional."
Karius and the top contenders in the ride brought World Class horsemanship and talent to compete and riders of all levels were able to garner new experiences from their presence.
The Canadian National Champions included: Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley, AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the gold medal.
The Silver medal was awarded to Carol Wadey of Edson, AB and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented riders comprised Alberta’s second team and were the only team in both the 50 and 100-mile events to finish all three team members.
British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab Cody Flair.
The Canadian Nationals are held every two years, alternating between eastern and western Canada.
2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N’ Tie
www.canadiannationals.org
Canada: Nationals at Rocky Mountain Challenge
August 17, 2008 Media Release
Alberta sweeps seven team Medals at the Canadian Nationals
Calgary - The Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals represented
over 170 long distance riders from across Canada and the United States from
July 31 - August 4, 2008. Three sports crowned their Canadian Champions:
competitive trail riding, endurance and ride n' tie. The events were hosted
at Red Deer River Ranches a working cattle and guest ranch west of Sundre,
AB.
Medal Results
Competitive Trail
Individual Gold - Leanna Marchant, Calgary, AB; Individual Silver - Natasha
French; Individual Bronze - Cathy Kolesar
Gold - Natasha French, Millarville, AB - Cathy Kolesar, Coutts, AB - Holly
Tibble, St. Albert, AB
Silver - Linda Riley, Leslieville, AB - Kandace Krause, Canmore, AB -
Christine Smith, Calgary, AB
Bronze - Elaine Steel, Mountain Grove, ON - Laura Rye of Alliston, ON - Anne
MacKay of B.C.
Canadian National Junior Champion - Leah Brunner, Red Deer, AB
50 Mile Endurance
Winner - Elroy Karius, Kelowna, BC
Best Condition - Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT
Gold - Nancy Haughian, Grande Prairie, AB - Dave Getzinger, Drayton Valley,
AB Karen Badger, Grande Prairie, AB
Silver - Carol, Rae-Anne and Robyn Wadey of Edson, AB
Bronze - Lori Brewza, Chase BC - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC - Wyatt Laing,
Okanagan Center, BC
100 mile Endurance
Winner and Best Condition - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC
Gold - Christy and Jaylene Janzen of Devon, AB - Crystal Fulcher, Seba
Beach, AB
Silver - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, B.C. - Tunie Russeau, Westbank, BC - Terre O’
Brennen, Delta, BC
No Bronze team.
20 Mile Ride N' Tie
Gold - Alison Douglas, Banff, AB - Heather Price, Canmore, AB
Silver - Rae-Anne Wadey, Edson, AB - Jenny Mooney, Winfield, AB
Bronze - Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB - Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB
Further Details
"The ranch was an excellent venue to showcase long distance talent.
Beautiful, scenic trail provided our wide range of competitors with a
challenging and unforgettable experience." Declared Sandra Nielsen, RMC
committee president. "It was terrific to see the varying ages of riders and
the many breeds of horses participating; among the many Arabians were
standardbreds, quarter horses, mustangs, even a Norwegian Fjord. One
particular favorite was Leah Brunner's 13.1hh pony, Willow, a very strong
competitor in the junior 80-mile Competitive Trail event."
With Alberta as host of the event, both endurance and competitive trail
events qualified two teams a piece and this strong contingent of teams
claimed five of the possible six Canadian National team medals in those two
sports including three gold and two silver.
"In numbers, Alberta has the strongest competitive trail club (Trail Riding
Alberta Conference) in Canada as well as a very strong endurance club
(Endurance Riders of Alberta). These clubs sanction several regional
competitions held throughout the year all over Alberta, so it was no
surprise to have the "home team" in the medals," commented Nielsen.
Competitive Trail Riding
In the competitive trail riding, a two-day eighty-mile ride was hosted in
superb competition weather conditions with partly cloudy skies and
temperatures from sub to mid twenties. The trail wound its way through the
foothills region of the Rocky Mountains and challenged the horses with
elevation gains of 2223 meters. "We threw at them everything the foothills
of the Canadian Rockies provides: Hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog. It was a challenging but
fair test of distance horses competing at a national championship." Stated
Brent Seufert, trail committee.
In total, 30 riders started, 20 riders finished. Competitive trail riders
have a minimum and maximum time period in which to complete the course and
were scored on how their horse’s handled the challenge. Team scores were
tabulated to determine the 2008 Canadian Champions.
Gold was awarded to Alberta A team - Natasha French of Millarville, AB
riding her twelve year-old bay Arabian mare Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB riding a seven year-old Arabian named Classical Dancer and Holly
Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding King Sera, a nine year old Arabian. French
also won the individual silver and Kolesar captured the individual bronze
medal.
The silver medal was won by Alberta B team despite the unfortunate
circumstance of Kandance Krause’s horse losing a shoe on day one resulting
in her time penalty disqualification. The team included veteran long
distance rider Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding sixteen year-old
Kittasha, Kandace Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmin, a sixteen year-old
Arab cross and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB riding her eleven year-old
Arabian, JV Prism in their first Nationals appearance and only their second
season in the sport.
The bronze medal was awarded to team Ontario, which included Elaine Steel of
Mountain Grove, ON riding Chanticleer Shadow, Laura Rye of Alliston, ON
riding Touch of Steel and Anne MacKay of B.C. riding Dante.
Leanna Marchant of Calgary, AB riding her solid Arabian, Samson’s Fire put
together a stellar ride finishing with an individual gold medal.
Nine year-old Leah Brunner of Red Deer, AB and her trusty pony 'Willow' were
named the Canadian National Junior Champions in their first open season and
first National event.
"I love this sport. I'm always going to be in this sport - competitive trail
and endurance." beams a self-assured young Brunner.
50 Mile Endurance
In the fifty-mile endurance event, the Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of
Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley,
AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding
eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Pilgrim claimed the gold medal. Twenty of the
twenty-nine starters finished the event including Carol Wadey of Edson, AB
and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented
riders comprised Alberta's second team and were the only team in both the 50
and 100-mile events to finish all three team members earning them their
silver medals.
With over 23,000 combined miles between them this was the first time they
have competed at nationals. It was also only the second time that they have
ridden together in a team event. Robyn rode nineteen year-old Spanish
Mustang named Gypsy while her Mom; Carol rode Gypsy's offspring, a half Arab
named MR Ladybird.
Rae-Anne rode Jet, her fifteen year-old 14.1 hh polish Arab "I’ve been
riding him for ten years." Says Rae-Anne. "He's naturally easy at the start
of ride, it’s so nice. He's slowing a little now. I have put on about
500-700 miles per year, but last year it was barely over 100. I'm slowing
down a little too. A lot of slow miles, we never go fast. I like it, its
fun, it's a challenge."
Mom Carol has been competing since 1983. Rae-Anne started at age 5 in
limited distance; Robyn started limited distance age 5 and started 50s the
same year.
British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from
Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of
Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab
Cody Flair.
Overall, the individual gold medal in the 50-mile was Elroy Karius of
Kelowna riding Jolly Holiday, a six year-old Arabian with a ride time of
5:37:57.
"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you
and you get it done…It's a gift." Said Karius of his win.
Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured
the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21.
Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the
bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.
100 Mile Endurance
In the 100-mile event, Alberta's contingent of consummate riders also
captured gold. This gold-medal team included Christy Janzen of Devon, AB
riding Salate's Victory, her fifteen year-old daughter Jaylene aboard SLSF
Halite's Comet and Crystal Fulcher of Seba Beach, AB riding Bardo Grey
Fonyx.
While their day started out in a similar weather pattern of earlier days in
the week, the winds of change erupted with showers about eight hours into
the event followed by two storm cells rolling through the area after the
eleven hour mark. Out of 26 starters, only ten riders crossed the finish
line. The torrent of rain was influential in preventing any riders from
attaining a sub 13 hour 20 minute ride time to qualify in the FEI event for
the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010.
The silver medal was awarded to British Columbia. The team consisted of Gail
Jewell of Kelowna, B.C. who won the ride on her ten year-old Arab NL
Temptation. Jewell's teammates included Tunie Russeau of Westbank, BC riding
thirteen-year-old Arietta and Terre O’Brennen of Delta, BC riding
twelve-year-old Arabian, Koszaar.
Jewell also commandeered the much sought-after title of best condition in
both the AERC and FEI events with her ride time of 14:18:54, which was well
ahead of Sue Summers from Gifford, WA who finished in 15:42:33 riding Mags
Motovator.
There was no bronze team awarded.
Individual Canadian Championship 100 Miles: Gold - Gail Jewell DVM, Silver -
Trisha Dowling DVM (St. Denis, SK), Bronze - Crystal Fulcher.
Ride N'Tie
In the Ride n’ Tie twenty-mile Canadian Championship event, Alberta teams
emerged with gold and silver titles. Gold was awarded to Alison Douglas of
Banff, AB and Heather Price of Canmore, AB who complete the challenging,
muddy course in 3:28, pursued closely by Rae-Anne Wadey and Jenny Mooney of
Winfield, AB in 3:35 who captured the silver medal. Wadey and Mooney teamed
up after Wadey’s original partner backed out. They rode 'Tonto' a horse
owned by Alberta rider Christy Janzen for the event. Wadey competes in track
and field, cross-country and also did the K-100 relay in Kananaskis country.
"We get off our horses a lot when doing endurance riding.” Says Wadey of the
running portion of the ride n' tie. "I went to the World Champion ride n'
tie in Montana three years ago. That one was a bit easier than this one.”
Claims Wadey who had to battle slick, mucky conditions following Sunday's
rainstorms.
Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB, a few generations Wadey's senior, and
Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB showed dogged determination in completing the
course in 6:15 riding sixteen year-old Morab, Fort William.
Alberta sweeps seven team Medals at the Canadian Nationals
Calgary - The Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals represented
over 170 long distance riders from across Canada and the United States from
July 31 - August 4, 2008. Three sports crowned their Canadian Champions:
competitive trail riding, endurance and ride n' tie. The events were hosted
at Red Deer River Ranches a working cattle and guest ranch west of Sundre,
AB.
Medal Results
Competitive Trail
Individual Gold - Leanna Marchant, Calgary, AB; Individual Silver - Natasha
French; Individual Bronze - Cathy Kolesar
Gold - Natasha French, Millarville, AB - Cathy Kolesar, Coutts, AB - Holly
Tibble, St. Albert, AB
Silver - Linda Riley, Leslieville, AB - Kandace Krause, Canmore, AB -
Christine Smith, Calgary, AB
Bronze - Elaine Steel, Mountain Grove, ON - Laura Rye of Alliston, ON - Anne
MacKay of B.C.
Canadian National Junior Champion - Leah Brunner, Red Deer, AB
50 Mile Endurance
Winner - Elroy Karius, Kelowna, BC
Best Condition - Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT
Gold - Nancy Haughian, Grande Prairie, AB - Dave Getzinger, Drayton Valley,
AB Karen Badger, Grande Prairie, AB
Silver - Carol, Rae-Anne and Robyn Wadey of Edson, AB
Bronze - Lori Brewza, Chase BC - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC - Wyatt Laing,
Okanagan Center, BC
100 mile Endurance
Winner and Best Condition - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC
Gold - Christy and Jaylene Janzen of Devon, AB - Crystal Fulcher, Seba
Beach, AB
Silver - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, B.C. - Tunie Russeau, Westbank, BC - Terre O’
Brennen, Delta, BC
No Bronze team.
20 Mile Ride N' Tie
Gold - Alison Douglas, Banff, AB - Heather Price, Canmore, AB
Silver - Rae-Anne Wadey, Edson, AB - Jenny Mooney, Winfield, AB
Bronze - Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB - Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB
Further Details
"The ranch was an excellent venue to showcase long distance talent.
Beautiful, scenic trail provided our wide range of competitors with a
challenging and unforgettable experience." Declared Sandra Nielsen, RMC
committee president. "It was terrific to see the varying ages of riders and
the many breeds of horses participating; among the many Arabians were
standardbreds, quarter horses, mustangs, even a Norwegian Fjord. One
particular favorite was Leah Brunner's 13.1hh pony, Willow, a very strong
competitor in the junior 80-mile Competitive Trail event."
With Alberta as host of the event, both endurance and competitive trail
events qualified two teams a piece and this strong contingent of teams
claimed five of the possible six Canadian National team medals in those two
sports including three gold and two silver.
"In numbers, Alberta has the strongest competitive trail club (Trail Riding
Alberta Conference) in Canada as well as a very strong endurance club
(Endurance Riders of Alberta). These clubs sanction several regional
competitions held throughout the year all over Alberta, so it was no
surprise to have the "home team" in the medals," commented Nielsen.
Competitive Trail Riding
In the competitive trail riding, a two-day eighty-mile ride was hosted in
superb competition weather conditions with partly cloudy skies and
temperatures from sub to mid twenties. The trail wound its way through the
foothills region of the Rocky Mountains and challenged the horses with
elevation gains of 2223 meters. "We threw at them everything the foothills
of the Canadian Rockies provides: Hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog. It was a challenging but
fair test of distance horses competing at a national championship." Stated
Brent Seufert, trail committee.
In total, 30 riders started, 20 riders finished. Competitive trail riders
have a minimum and maximum time period in which to complete the course and
were scored on how their horse’s handled the challenge. Team scores were
tabulated to determine the 2008 Canadian Champions.
Gold was awarded to Alberta A team - Natasha French of Millarville, AB
riding her twelve year-old bay Arabian mare Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB riding a seven year-old Arabian named Classical Dancer and Holly
Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding King Sera, a nine year old Arabian. French
also won the individual silver and Kolesar captured the individual bronze
medal.
The silver medal was won by Alberta B team despite the unfortunate
circumstance of Kandance Krause’s horse losing a shoe on day one resulting
in her time penalty disqualification. The team included veteran long
distance rider Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding sixteen year-old
Kittasha, Kandace Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmin, a sixteen year-old
Arab cross and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB riding her eleven year-old
Arabian, JV Prism in their first Nationals appearance and only their second
season in the sport.
The bronze medal was awarded to team Ontario, which included Elaine Steel of
Mountain Grove, ON riding Chanticleer Shadow, Laura Rye of Alliston, ON
riding Touch of Steel and Anne MacKay of B.C. riding Dante.
Leanna Marchant of Calgary, AB riding her solid Arabian, Samson’s Fire put
together a stellar ride finishing with an individual gold medal.
Nine year-old Leah Brunner of Red Deer, AB and her trusty pony 'Willow' were
named the Canadian National Junior Champions in their first open season and
first National event.
"I love this sport. I'm always going to be in this sport - competitive trail
and endurance." beams a self-assured young Brunner.
50 Mile Endurance
In the fifty-mile endurance event, the Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of
Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley,
AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding
eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Pilgrim claimed the gold medal. Twenty of the
twenty-nine starters finished the event including Carol Wadey of Edson, AB
and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented
riders comprised Alberta's second team and were the only team in both the 50
and 100-mile events to finish all three team members earning them their
silver medals.
With over 23,000 combined miles between them this was the first time they
have competed at nationals. It was also only the second time that they have
ridden together in a team event. Robyn rode nineteen year-old Spanish
Mustang named Gypsy while her Mom; Carol rode Gypsy's offspring, a half Arab
named MR Ladybird.
Rae-Anne rode Jet, her fifteen year-old 14.1 hh polish Arab "I’ve been
riding him for ten years." Says Rae-Anne. "He's naturally easy at the start
of ride, it’s so nice. He's slowing a little now. I have put on about
500-700 miles per year, but last year it was barely over 100. I'm slowing
down a little too. A lot of slow miles, we never go fast. I like it, its
fun, it's a challenge."
Mom Carol has been competing since 1983. Rae-Anne started at age 5 in
limited distance; Robyn started limited distance age 5 and started 50s the
same year.
British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from
Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of
Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab
Cody Flair.
Overall, the individual gold medal in the 50-mile was Elroy Karius of
Kelowna riding Jolly Holiday, a six year-old Arabian with a ride time of
5:37:57.
"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you
and you get it done…It's a gift." Said Karius of his win.
Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured
the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21.
Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the
bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.
100 Mile Endurance
In the 100-mile event, Alberta's contingent of consummate riders also
captured gold. This gold-medal team included Christy Janzen of Devon, AB
riding Salate's Victory, her fifteen year-old daughter Jaylene aboard SLSF
Halite's Comet and Crystal Fulcher of Seba Beach, AB riding Bardo Grey
Fonyx.
While their day started out in a similar weather pattern of earlier days in
the week, the winds of change erupted with showers about eight hours into
the event followed by two storm cells rolling through the area after the
eleven hour mark. Out of 26 starters, only ten riders crossed the finish
line. The torrent of rain was influential in preventing any riders from
attaining a sub 13 hour 20 minute ride time to qualify in the FEI event for
the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010.
The silver medal was awarded to British Columbia. The team consisted of Gail
Jewell of Kelowna, B.C. who won the ride on her ten year-old Arab NL
Temptation. Jewell's teammates included Tunie Russeau of Westbank, BC riding
thirteen-year-old Arietta and Terre O’Brennen of Delta, BC riding
twelve-year-old Arabian, Koszaar.
Jewell also commandeered the much sought-after title of best condition in
both the AERC and FEI events with her ride time of 14:18:54, which was well
ahead of Sue Summers from Gifford, WA who finished in 15:42:33 riding Mags
Motovator.
There was no bronze team awarded.
Individual Canadian Championship 100 Miles: Gold - Gail Jewell DVM, Silver -
Trisha Dowling DVM (St. Denis, SK), Bronze - Crystal Fulcher.
Ride N'Tie
In the Ride n’ Tie twenty-mile Canadian Championship event, Alberta teams
emerged with gold and silver titles. Gold was awarded to Alison Douglas of
Banff, AB and Heather Price of Canmore, AB who complete the challenging,
muddy course in 3:28, pursued closely by Rae-Anne Wadey and Jenny Mooney of
Winfield, AB in 3:35 who captured the silver medal. Wadey and Mooney teamed
up after Wadey’s original partner backed out. They rode 'Tonto' a horse
owned by Alberta rider Christy Janzen for the event. Wadey competes in track
and field, cross-country and also did the K-100 relay in Kananaskis country.
"We get off our horses a lot when doing endurance riding.” Says Wadey of the
running portion of the ride n' tie. "I went to the World Champion ride n'
tie in Montana three years ago. That one was a bit easier than this one.”
Claims Wadey who had to battle slick, mucky conditions following Sunday's
rainstorms.
Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB, a few generations Wadey's senior, and
Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB showed dogged determination in completing the
course in 6:15 riding sixteen year-old Morab, Fort William.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Canadian Championship 2008 Results
Rocky Mountain Challenge website
Partial Results 100 Miles:
AERC
Place Rider Time
1 Gail Jewel 14:18:54 Best Condition
2 Sue Summers 15:42:33
3 Carol Giles 15:42:34
4 Jan Marsh 15:42:35
ERA
Place Rider Time
1 Jan Marsh 15:42:35
2 Crystal Fulcher 18:17:15
Junior
Place Rider Time
1 Kelsey Kimbler 18:17:17
2 Jaylene Janzen 18:17:18
FEI
Place Rider
1 Gail Jewel Best Condition
2 Sue Summers
3 Carol Gile
4 Jan Mars
Individual Canadian Championship
Place Rider
Gold Gail Jewell DVM
Silver Trisha Dowling DVM
Bronze Crystal Fulcher
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Canadian Nationals: Provincial teams announced
Sundre - The Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals is being
hosted at Red Deer River Ranches, a guest and working cattle ranch located
south-west of the town of Sundre, AB July 31 - August 4, 2008.
This long-distance equine event will feature eight events in three sports:
endurance, competitive trail riding and ride n’ tie with Canadian National
champions being named in each sport.
With Alberta hosting the prestigious event, the sports of endurance and
competitive trail riding are able to post two teams to compete. The
selection committees have watched these horse and rider teams compete over
the season and have the job of naming those horses and riders who will best
represent the province.
Trail Riders Alberta Conference (TRAC) - the sanctioning body for the sport
of competitive trail riding in Alberta has named their selections for the
80-mile 2-day Provincial teams and they are:
Natasha French (Millarville, AB)riding Savannah
Cathy Kolesar of (Coutts, AB) riding Classical Dancer
Kandace Krause of (Canmore, AB) riding Jasmine
Linda Riley of (Leslieville, AB) riding Kittasha
Christine Smith of (Calgary, AB) on JV Prism
Leanna Marchant of (Calgary, AB) on Samsons Fire
Shannon Harms of (Edmonton, AB) on Kaluha
Sylvio Campanelli of (Blackfalds, AB) on Misty
Holly Tibble of (St. Albert, AB) riding King Sera
Angie Bowring of (Spruce Grove, AB) on PeJay
Endurance Riders of Alberta (ERA) - the sanctioning body for the sport of
endurance riding in Alberta has named their selections for the provincial
teams as well and they are:
Crystal Fulcher (Seba Beach, AB)
Christy Janzen (Devon, AB)
Jaylene Janzen (Devon, AB)
(Alternate- Brenda Shaughnessy (Spruce Grove, AB)
50 milers:
Karen Badger (Grande Prairie, AB)
Dave Getzinger (Drayton Valley, AB)
Nancy Haughian (Grande Prairie, AB)
(alternates- Jaye Yavis, Jessica Yavis)(Breton, AB)
50 milers:
Carol Wadey (Edson, AB)
Robyn Wadey (Edson, AB)
Rae-Anne Wadey (Edson, AB)
(alternates- Colleen Williams (Spruce Grove, AB), Brenda Henrikson (Evansburg, AB)
"We are excited to see the strong showing of local talent competing in not
just the Championship events, but in many of our other featured events."
states Sandra Nielsen, RMC committee president, "The local volunteer base is
also extraordinary and is a critical component of putting together an event
of this magnitude. Of course, we still welcome any other volunteers that
would like to be a part of it."
These horse and rider teams have been competing and training all season in
preparation for this phenomenal opportunity to represent their province and
hopefully stand on the podium as Canadian National Champions. Come cheer
them on, volunteer or offer financial support!!
FAST FACTS:
Full schedules and details are available on www.canadiannationals.org
The Canadian Nationals alternating between western and eastern Canada every
two years. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.
Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial
organization.
Status of provincial teams for the past two nationals in competitive trail:
Quebec 2006 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Alberta * Bronze - Team Almost East
Manitoba 2004 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Saskatchewan * Bronze - Alberta
Alberta has hosted the Nationals on two other occasions:
Kananaskis Country 1988, RAM River Falls 1996.
The 2008 Nationals will also host a 100-mile FEI competition that allows
competitors the opportunity to qualify for the 2010 World Equestrian Games
in Kentucky.
Nearly 170 entries will represent British Columbia to Ontario as well as the
United States. Eight events are scheduled in five days including the International and
Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides that are open to
all riders. A fundraising auction is planned for August 2 - profits raised from the
Rocky Mountain Challenge will benefit CASE (Central Alberta Special Equestrian), a therapeutic riding program.
http://www.canadiannationals.org
For further information, please contact:
Cyndi Rowat
Public Relations
Ph 403.936.2369
Cell 403.660.2257
Email cyndi.rowat@3web.net
Sandra Nielsen
President
Ph 403.637.0245
Email Sandra.Nielsen@xplornet.com
hosted at Red Deer River Ranches, a guest and working cattle ranch located
south-west of the town of Sundre, AB July 31 - August 4, 2008.
This long-distance equine event will feature eight events in three sports:
endurance, competitive trail riding and ride n’ tie with Canadian National
champions being named in each sport.
With Alberta hosting the prestigious event, the sports of endurance and
competitive trail riding are able to post two teams to compete. The
selection committees have watched these horse and rider teams compete over
the season and have the job of naming those horses and riders who will best
represent the province.
Trail Riders Alberta Conference (TRAC) - the sanctioning body for the sport
of competitive trail riding in Alberta has named their selections for the
80-mile 2-day Provincial teams and they are:
Natasha French (Millarville, AB)riding Savannah
Cathy Kolesar of (Coutts, AB) riding Classical Dancer
Kandace Krause of (Canmore, AB) riding Jasmine
Linda Riley of (Leslieville, AB) riding Kittasha
Christine Smith of (Calgary, AB) on JV Prism
Leanna Marchant of (Calgary, AB) on Samsons Fire
Shannon Harms of (Edmonton, AB) on Kaluha
Sylvio Campanelli of (Blackfalds, AB) on Misty
Holly Tibble of (St. Albert, AB) riding King Sera
Angie Bowring of (Spruce Grove, AB) on PeJay
Endurance Riders of Alberta (ERA) - the sanctioning body for the sport of
endurance riding in Alberta has named their selections for the provincial
teams as well and they are:
Crystal Fulcher (Seba Beach, AB)
Christy Janzen (Devon, AB)
Jaylene Janzen (Devon, AB)
(Alternate- Brenda Shaughnessy (Spruce Grove, AB)
50 milers:
Karen Badger (Grande Prairie, AB)
Dave Getzinger (Drayton Valley, AB)
Nancy Haughian (Grande Prairie, AB)
(alternates- Jaye Yavis, Jessica Yavis)(Breton, AB)
50 milers:
Carol Wadey (Edson, AB)
Robyn Wadey (Edson, AB)
Rae-Anne Wadey (Edson, AB)
(alternates- Colleen Williams (Spruce Grove, AB), Brenda Henrikson (Evansburg, AB)
"We are excited to see the strong showing of local talent competing in not
just the Championship events, but in many of our other featured events."
states Sandra Nielsen, RMC committee president, "The local volunteer base is
also extraordinary and is a critical component of putting together an event
of this magnitude. Of course, we still welcome any other volunteers that
would like to be a part of it."
These horse and rider teams have been competing and training all season in
preparation for this phenomenal opportunity to represent their province and
hopefully stand on the podium as Canadian National Champions. Come cheer
them on, volunteer or offer financial support!!
FAST FACTS:
Full schedules and details are available on www.canadiannationals.org
The Canadian Nationals alternating between western and eastern Canada every
two years. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.
Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial
organization.
Status of provincial teams for the past two nationals in competitive trail:
Quebec 2006 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Alberta * Bronze - Team Almost East
Manitoba 2004 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Saskatchewan * Bronze - Alberta
Alberta has hosted the Nationals on two other occasions:
Kananaskis Country 1988, RAM River Falls 1996.
The 2008 Nationals will also host a 100-mile FEI competition that allows
competitors the opportunity to qualify for the 2010 World Equestrian Games
in Kentucky.
Nearly 170 entries will represent British Columbia to Ontario as well as the
United States. Eight events are scheduled in five days including the International and
Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides that are open to
all riders. A fundraising auction is planned for August 2 - profits raised from the
Rocky Mountain Challenge will benefit CASE (Central Alberta Special Equestrian), a therapeutic riding program.
http://www.canadiannationals.org
For further information, please contact:
Cyndi Rowat
Public Relations
Ph 403.936.2369
Cell 403.660.2257
Email cyndi.rowat@3web.net
Sandra Nielsen
President
Ph 403.637.0245
Email Sandra.Nielsen@xplornet.com
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