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
Monday, August 18, 2008
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.
Germany: Kreuth event crowns champions
Junior Champion
Amy Wegner & Aicha Addschawad
Senior Champion
Belinda Hitzler & Shagar
CEI 160km Winner
Urs Wenger CH & Cadour d'Alsace (SWI)
Results and Photo Gallery
Amy Wegner & Aicha Addschawad
Senior Champion
Belinda Hitzler & Shagar
CEI 160km Winner
Urs Wenger CH & Cadour d'Alsace (SWI)
Results and Photo Gallery
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Australia: Tingha endurance ride goes international
The Invernell Times
15/08/2008 11:11:00 AM
GREEN Valley Farm is to become home for more than 100 horses and riders this weekend.
And the Green Valley Tingha Endurance Ride 2008 is set to become an International Endurance event.
There will be three riders from Thailand at the Tingha ride including Prutirat Serireongrith, who is the vice-president of the Thai Endurance Riders Association, from Bangkok, Wipawan Pawitayalarp of Bangkok and Dr Supanee Chaiwiro from Pattaya.
All three riders will be attempting the 80km ride.
Prutirat has previously completed two 40km and two 80km rides in Australia.
Both Wipawan and Supanee have completed one 40km ride in Australia, but they have also completed several 40km and 60km rides in Thailand. This will be their first attempt at the 80km distance.
Prutirat will be riding his own horse, Shardell Prince Ali, a 6-year-old purebred gelding bred by Rod Strahan of Shardell Arabians in Queensland. Wipawan will be riding another horse owned by Prutirat, Shardell Galazan, also bred by Strahan.
Supanee will be riding Mt Eerwah Silver Mariner, an 11-year-old purebred gelding bred by Robyn Pembroke of Mt Eerwah Arabians of Queensland, and owned by Splendacrest Endurance Training.
Endurance riding in Thailand is in its infancy, although support and interest in the sport is growing rapidly.
By gaining experience in Australia, where endurance riding is well established, these Thai riders are hoping to progress the sport at home.
In addition, there will also be His Excellence, Sheik Saeed Bin Maktoum al Maktoum from the United Arab Emirents.
He will be riding in the 110km challenge ride, and is keen to win the event.
Enduranace racing is a very popular sport in his country, where riders compete for prize money. But in Australia, prize money is not allowed.
15/08/2008 11:11:00 AM
GREEN Valley Farm is to become home for more than 100 horses and riders this weekend.
And the Green Valley Tingha Endurance Ride 2008 is set to become an International Endurance event.
There will be three riders from Thailand at the Tingha ride including Prutirat Serireongrith, who is the vice-president of the Thai Endurance Riders Association, from Bangkok, Wipawan Pawitayalarp of Bangkok and Dr Supanee Chaiwiro from Pattaya.
All three riders will be attempting the 80km ride.
Prutirat has previously completed two 40km and two 80km rides in Australia.
Both Wipawan and Supanee have completed one 40km ride in Australia, but they have also completed several 40km and 60km rides in Thailand. This will be their first attempt at the 80km distance.
Prutirat will be riding his own horse, Shardell Prince Ali, a 6-year-old purebred gelding bred by Rod Strahan of Shardell Arabians in Queensland. Wipawan will be riding another horse owned by Prutirat, Shardell Galazan, also bred by Strahan.
Supanee will be riding Mt Eerwah Silver Mariner, an 11-year-old purebred gelding bred by Robyn Pembroke of Mt Eerwah Arabians of Queensland, and owned by Splendacrest Endurance Training.
Endurance riding in Thailand is in its infancy, although support and interest in the sport is growing rapidly.
By gaining experience in Australia, where endurance riding is well established, these Thai riders are hoping to progress the sport at home.
In addition, there will also be His Excellence, Sheik Saeed Bin Maktoum al Maktoum from the United Arab Emirents.
He will be riding in the 110km challenge ride, and is keen to win the event.
Enduranace racing is a very popular sport in his country, where riders compete for prize money. But in Australia, prize money is not allowed.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Bahrain: Shaikh Nasser joyful for victory of Shaikh Khalid in the Thetford race
Bahrain News Agency
London, Aug 1
The captain of the Bahraini royal endurance team Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed his great joy on the first European victory of Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, leader of al Khalidiya Stables, at the Thetford race.
The victory in the fourth European event for the Royal Team adds to the good days Shaikh Khalid is having after graduating from the Toyal Military Academy Sandhurst, Shaikh Nasser said. The team is preparing for the World Endurance Championship in Malaysia to be held in November. The generous support of Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Mmaktoom and his sons Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed was also a great source of joy, Shaikh Nasser said.
Shaikh Khalid repeated his achievement of last year by scoring the fastest time in the 160 kilometre race. Shaikh Khalid praised the level exhibited by Shaikh Khalid in the race and his performance in its six stages. Shaikh Kkhalid deserved the victory which he earned after a putting a lot of efforts for this race, Shaikh Nasser said. On his part, Shaikh Kkhalid extended his appreciation for Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom, Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed for their great support throughout the event.
Shaikh Khalid said the race would be a beautiful memory as it was the first time he won a European Endurance Championship. He said that the guidance of his brother Shaikh Nasser has led him to the finish line of the race. Shaikh Nasser became a main source of support after his withdrawal from the race, he said. Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman Al Khalifa praised the big victory of Shaikh Khalid, especially that the race witnessed strong competition from the very beginning. As a Bahraini Team, we were keen to stay together until the end but circumstances played against us, he said. Shaikh Nasser decided to withdraw, rider Mohammed Abdul Aziz was slightly injured after his horse tripped, he said.
Only three were left with Ahmed Abdulla who tried his best but could not complete the race as his horse did not pass the veterinarian checkup, he explained. Shaikh Duaij commended the significant role Shaikh Nasser had in guiding the team during the remaining phases of the highly competitive race. The Thetford race witnessed a steamy competition with the positions of jockeys shifting at every stage. At the second stage of the race, both Shaikh Khalid and Shaikh Duaij crossed the distance in 3.48.28. Mohammed Abdul Aziz completed the distance in 3.51.30 and Ahmed Abdullah in 3.46.29.
Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom had the lead with 3.42.06. at the 120 km, Yousif Ali Taher completed the distance 3.41.56 whereas Ghazi Al Dosseri's horse was injured and therefore lost time. In the 120 km for youth, Mohammed Abdulsamad crossed the distance in 3.31.09. After the first stage, Sshaikh Nasser came third with 2.06.42 while Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid has the lead with 2.05.37. Ahmed Abdullah came third with 2.06.28 and Shaikh Khalid came fifth.
Although Shaikh Mohammed Min Rashid was ahead in the third stage, Shaikh Khalid continued with a time of 5.24.10. Ahmed Abdulla had a time of 5.29.09 and Yousif Taher 4.05.08. the members of the royal team were still present in the fourth stage for 160km and 120km. Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad had a time of 6.22.27, Ahmed Abdullah with 6.19. 46 and Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman 6.23.13. Mohammed Abdul Samad withdrew at 120 km because he got dehydrated.
London, Aug 1
The captain of the Bahraini royal endurance team Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed his great joy on the first European victory of Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, leader of al Khalidiya Stables, at the Thetford race.
The victory in the fourth European event for the Royal Team adds to the good days Shaikh Khalid is having after graduating from the Toyal Military Academy Sandhurst, Shaikh Nasser said. The team is preparing for the World Endurance Championship in Malaysia to be held in November. The generous support of Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Mmaktoom and his sons Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed was also a great source of joy, Shaikh Nasser said.
Shaikh Khalid repeated his achievement of last year by scoring the fastest time in the 160 kilometre race. Shaikh Khalid praised the level exhibited by Shaikh Khalid in the race and his performance in its six stages. Shaikh Kkhalid deserved the victory which he earned after a putting a lot of efforts for this race, Shaikh Nasser said. On his part, Shaikh Kkhalid extended his appreciation for Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom, Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed for their great support throughout the event.
Shaikh Khalid said the race would be a beautiful memory as it was the first time he won a European Endurance Championship. He said that the guidance of his brother Shaikh Nasser has led him to the finish line of the race. Shaikh Nasser became a main source of support after his withdrawal from the race, he said. Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman Al Khalifa praised the big victory of Shaikh Khalid, especially that the race witnessed strong competition from the very beginning. As a Bahraini Team, we were keen to stay together until the end but circumstances played against us, he said. Shaikh Nasser decided to withdraw, rider Mohammed Abdul Aziz was slightly injured after his horse tripped, he said.
Only three were left with Ahmed Abdulla who tried his best but could not complete the race as his horse did not pass the veterinarian checkup, he explained. Shaikh Duaij commended the significant role Shaikh Nasser had in guiding the team during the remaining phases of the highly competitive race. The Thetford race witnessed a steamy competition with the positions of jockeys shifting at every stage. At the second stage of the race, both Shaikh Khalid and Shaikh Duaij crossed the distance in 3.48.28. Mohammed Abdul Aziz completed the distance in 3.51.30 and Ahmed Abdullah in 3.46.29.
Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom had the lead with 3.42.06. at the 120 km, Yousif Ali Taher completed the distance 3.41.56 whereas Ghazi Al Dosseri's horse was injured and therefore lost time. In the 120 km for youth, Mohammed Abdulsamad crossed the distance in 3.31.09. After the first stage, Sshaikh Nasser came third with 2.06.42 while Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid has the lead with 2.05.37. Ahmed Abdullah came third with 2.06.28 and Shaikh Khalid came fifth.
Although Shaikh Mohammed Min Rashid was ahead in the third stage, Shaikh Khalid continued with a time of 5.24.10. Ahmed Abdulla had a time of 5.29.09 and Yousif Taher 4.05.08. the members of the royal team were still present in the fourth stage for 160km and 120km. Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad had a time of 6.22.27, Ahmed Abdullah with 6.19. 46 and Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman 6.23.13. Mohammed Abdul Samad withdrew at 120 km because he got dehydrated.
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
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