WEG: competitors coming from 58 countries

full article at http://www.kentucky.com/2010/08/19/1397689/weg-competitors-coming-from-58.html

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.

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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

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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

Article at http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/sport/Cockley-Adams-delighted-way-World-Equestrian-Games/article-2536761-detail/article.html



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.

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

Spain: Top Teams for Kentucky

RFHE.com

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.

USEF Names Endurance Short List/Nominated Entry for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

USEF.org

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.

Mongolia: Justin pips Saskia in a thrilling final dash for the line!

Mongolderby.theadventurists.com

"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...

Mongolderby.theadventurists.com

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

August 12, 2010

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

Equestrianteamgbr.co.uk - Full Article

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.

New Zealand: Endurance Board comments on World Equestrian Games withdrawals

Horsetalk.co.nz - Full Article

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

The First Barefoot Endurance Horse of Guatemala Goes to the WEG 2010

Easycareinc.com Blog - Full Story

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

Horsesinthesouth.com - Full Article

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/

Young endurance rider secures record European 4th for Britain

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full Article

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

Mongolia: Kiwi leads the field in the world's most demanding horse race

Stuff.co.nz - Full Article

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

Kanavy Withdraws Horses from WEG Selection Trials

Saturday August 7 2010

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

Enduroonline.com.br - Full Article

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.